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Kaitlyn Webb Patience

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On April 18, 2020 Deana Wilson greeted a large online gathering of guests. “I want to thank everyone for coming to join this Zoom live today!” The event in question, originally intended to be an in-person gathering, was a book launch for “Liam, Strong as a Tree.” The book celebrates the strength of her son Liam, who was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis at just three weeks old.

Amidst the COVID-19 world pandemic, arts and culture quietly closed its doors to the public. As people were reeling from news of sickness, financial anxiety, and the inability to see or embrace their loved ones, institutions and organizations across the world cancelled classes, workshops, exhibits, and events. The arts community in Milton followed suit. During a time when people have lost jobs, and access to the things they need the most, the importance of arts and culture falls lower on the list of priorities.

Long-time residents of Milton will recall Super A Video – a beloved home video store once located in the plaza at the corner of Ontario Street and Derry Road. It was there amidst the movie stacks that the idea for the Milton Film Festival was born. MFF Lead Programmer Katie Pearce says that’s where current Festival Founder and Director Jennifer Smith first began dreaming of the possibilities.

On a breezy summer evening, participants of Arts Milton’s Friendship Project gathered at the Milton Sports Centre park for a picnic celebrating the completion of this year’s program. The Friendship Project, now in its second year, connects newcomers to Canada with community host families. Together the partnered families attend arts and culture activities together from winter to spring each year.

Miltonians may have enjoyed their last Canada Day festivities at the Milton Fairgrounds. After more than 20 years of providing our community with a yearly celebration, the Milton Canada Day Committee will be retiring in 2019.

Once joined together with the Milton Santa Claus Parade Committee, the two events split off once they gained traction within the community. Committee Member of 15 years and Sponsorship Chair Pat Rideout explains, “As each event grew, it was decided that they should be separate entities.” The event was first hosted at Rotary Park but quickly outgrew the space and moved to its current location at the Milton Fairgrounds.