In this conversation, Marj Andre speaks with Stella Song, the founder and artistic director of the York Region Youth Orchestra. They discuss Stella's musical background, the mission of the orchestra, the importance of community in music education, and the upcoming concert.

Stella emphasizes the orchestra's role in fostering a supportive environment for young musicians and the cultural bridge it creates within the diverse York Region community.

Click HERE for tickets for the December 6th Breath of Hope Benefit Concert 

Find out more about the York Region Youth Orchestra

Stella can be contacted at [email protected]

In this conversation, Marj Andre talks with Krista Andrews and Courtney Drew of the Salvation Army in Richmond Hill, about this year's Kettle Campaign. 

The challenges of running this campaign are highlighted.  But also, the importance of being present and acknowledging others during the busy Christmas season.

They have a goal of raising $100,000 to support all of the good work they do in our community.

Manning the kettle offers meaningful connections and highlight the true spirit of the holidays.

Here's the link to sign up to volunteer on the kettle Kettle Application - The Salvation Army

If you would just like to donate, click HERE

Follow them on Facebook  www.facebook.com/rhcconline

Email -  [email protected]

In this conversation, Minda Davis and Sherry Rossi, two of the very experienced potters from the Hill Potters Guild discusses pottery techniques, including firing pieces in a very hot kiln.

They want to make pottery that is functional and that is used. 

Minda and Sherry brag about their great community of potters.

In this episode of the Connecting the Community podcast, Marj Andre speaks with John Holland, the music director of Chorus York, about the upcoming Choral Noël concert. They discuss the concert's unique pieces, including a Baroque Magnificat and a modern arrangement of Auld Lang Syne, as well as the process of selecting music for Christmas performances.

John shares insights into the importance of community engagement and the personal connections people have with Christmas music, highlighting the joy and challenges of choir performances.

Chorus York | Lifting your spirit through song

Click HERE to purchase tickets - Saturday, December 13th, 7:30 pm. 

The conversation highlights the importance of arts and culture in Richmond Hill, emphasizing the need for community groups to connect and collaborate.

Marj Andre discusses with two of the City of Richmond Hill's staff, Leanne DiMonte and Daria Ludwiczak, how the theatre and visual arts sectors are working to create networking opportunities for artists and creators, fostering both personal and professional relationships.

Check out their website for more details, including renting space,

Cultural Centre - City of Richmond Hill

Leanne and Daria can be reached at [email protected]

This was an introduction to Vincent Ho, the newly elected Member of Parliament and a lifetime Richmond Hill resident, to the residents of Richmond Hill.

The conversation centers around the pressing issue of immigration in Canada, highlighting a broad consensus across party lines for the need to reduce immigration levels.

The discussion emphasizes the strain on housing, healthcare, and job markets, illustrating the disconnect between the number of homes being built and the influx of new residents. Vincent argues that the current immigration policy is unsustainable and contributes to a housing crisis.

Vincent Ho | Member of Parliament, Richmond Hill South

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre speaks with artists Karen Pasieka and Claudia Galletta, members of the Artists' Co-op Richmond Hill.

They discuss their artistic journeys, the materials they use, and the influence of nature on their work.

The conversation also touches on the importance of community, the joy of gift-giving, and the workshops they offer to engage with the public. Both artists express their love for their craft and the supportive environment of the Richmond Hill art community.

Check out their website Artists Coop Richmond Hill

It's open November 13 to December 28, Thursday to Sunday. 11 to 6 pm.

Here's the link to the workshops that Claudia and Karen, and the other artists at the gallery are offering EVENTS | Artists Coop Richmond Hill

Check out Karen's work

Subtle Details designed and handcrafted out of polymer clay by Karen Pasieka

In this conversation, Marj Andre speaks with poet Greg Sass about his life experiences, the impact of trauma, and his recent publication 'Child of War.'

They explore the definitions of trauma, the importance of discussing it, and the therapeutic role of poetry. Greg shares his personal experiences with trauma, his reflections on war, and the significance of childhood in shaping one's life.

The discussion also touches on the necessity of understanding the emotional weight of war, especially on children, and concludes with a reflection on community and nature.

Click HERE to order the book from Amazon 

In this podcast, Marj Andre interviews Ward 2 Councillor Scott Thompson about the city's micro-mobility strategy, focusing on e-bikes and related regulations.

They discuss the definition of micro-mobility, safety concerns, infrastructure plans, and community engagement regarding e-bikes in Richmond Hill.

Check out the report Micromobility-Strategy

This bylaw is a bit technical but a worthwhile read 90-25.pdf

Scott can be contacted at [email protected]

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre speaks with artists Wendy Emery and Kathleen Rodgers, who are part of an artist co-op in Richmond Hill.

They discuss their artistic journeys, the unique experience of the gallery, the importance of supporting local artists, and the inspiration they draw from each other and their community.

The conversation highlights the significance of workshops and community engagement in fostering creativity and connection among artists and art lovers alike.

The Gallery is open Nov. 14 to Dec. 28, Thursday to Sunday, from 11 to 6 pm, plus the 5 Saturday evenings (Nov, 14 to Dec. 13), 4 to 8 pm.

See all the beautiful creations Artists Coop Richmond Hill

Here's the link to the workshops, including the 3 offered by Wendy. EVENTS | Artists Coop Richmond Hill