Connecting the Community

In this podcast, Marj Andre interviews Rose Hirano, a meditation teacher with a rich background in art. Rose shares her journey from being a woodblock artist to embracing meditation and teaching it at the Kadampa Meditation Center. The conversation explores the practical applications of Buddhist teachings in daily life, the inclusivity of meditation practices, and the motivation behind Rose's desire to teach. Listeners are encouraged to join her upcoming practical meditation course, which aims to help individuals cultivate kindness and mindfulness in their everyday interactions. Click HERE for information for Rose's course link to the course, starting September 11, 2025 Here is their web site: Meditation & Modern Buddhism for Everyone - Kadampa Meditation Centre Canada

In this engaging conversation, Marj Andre speaks with John Holland, founder of the Canadian Institute for Czech Music, about the upcoming performance of Mozart's Don Giovanni. They explore the opera's themes, its cultural significance, and the unique format of the performance. Holland shares insights into the enduring appeal of Don Giovanni and the importance of community support for the arts in Richmond Hill. Performance date - Friday, September 12th, 2025 - 7 pm. Mozart's Don Giovanni in Concert

The podcast discusses the upcoming book event in Richmond Hill, September 12 & 13, highlighting the extensive selection of books, the organization efforts by volunteers, and the community engagement aspect of the event. Contact information is on the web site Areyougoingtobe

In this podcast episode, Dr. Radhika Chawla discusses the importance of eye exams for children, particularly as they return to school. She explains the differences between adult and child eye exams, the impact of vision on social and academic performance, and the importance of protective eyewear in sports. The conversation also covers the rise in vision problems among children, the role of contact lenses, and the significance of early detection and preventative measures in maintaining eye health. www.eyesofrichmondhill.com

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre interviews Jack Bateman, the owner and founder of the Martial Arts Training Center in Richmond Hill. They discuss the facility's offerings, Jack's journey into martial arts, the challenges faced in opening the center, and the benefits of martial arts for both children and adults. The conversation also touches on the collaboration with local police, the importance of a dedicated team, and the community engagement through fun events like birthday parties. Martial Arts Training Centre Richmond Hill

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre interviews Mark Zimmerman and Janet Martin, the producers of the Canadian production of 'Menopause, The Musical.' They discuss the storyline, characters, and the musical's history, including its Canadian adaptations. The conversation also explores audience demographics, reactions, and the cultural diversity of the show's attendees. There are some insights into the impact of the musical on relationships! Men should attend! Click HERE for tickets

In this conversation, Marj Andre speaks with Tricia de Boer and Benson Ocen from I Live Again Uganda about their mission to help individuals heal from trauma caused by war and displacement. They discuss the organization's trauma rehabilitation programs, the impact of gender-based violence, and the importance of community support. The conversation also highlights the upcoming Healing and Hope Fundraising Gala, aimed at raising awareness and funds for mental health initiatives in Uganda. Here's the link for the gala, including to order tickets HEALING & HOPE GALA | I Live Again Uganda

On this podcast, Marj Andre interviews Susan Walmer, the CEO of the Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust, discussing the organization's mission, the significance of the Oak Ridges Moraine, and the upcoming 25th anniversary celebration. They explore the importance of land trusts, the unique ecological features of the moraine, and the challenges it faces. Susan shares insights on public access to protected lands and how the community can engage with the trust's initiatives. Explore their web site HOME | Oakridges Moraine LT Consider attending their gala 25th Anniversary | Oakridges Moraine LT

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre speaks with Anders Lindfors about the upcoming Richmond Hill Beer Fest, scheduled for August 16th. They discuss the event's community impact, the variety of craft beers and food offerings, the entertainment lineup, and the charitable cause it supports, Hill House Hospice. The conversation highlights the importance of community engagement and the event's role in bringing people together for a good cause. Check out: Richmond Hill Rotary Club Beer Festival Rotary Club of Richmond Hill King Henry's Arms – Traditional Pub With Local Microbrews on Tap Hospice Care Services – Hill House Hospice

In this enlightening conversation, Marj Andre and Peter Dennis delve into the fascinating world of channeling, exploring its significance in modern spirituality. Peter shares his journey into channeling, the rise of channelers in society, and the different techniques employed by channelers. They discuss notable channeled beings and the empowering messages they convey, emphasizing the importance of higher frequencies and spiritual growth. The conversation concludes with reflections on community and the evolving nature of consciousness. Peter can be contacted at [email protected] Here's his website Home - The Channeling Connection

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre speaks with Anders Lindfors, co-owner of King Henry's Arms, about the challenges and changes in the restaurant industry, particularly in light of rising costs and shifting customer behaviors. They discuss the importance of community engagement, the evolution of craft breweries, and the significance of supporting local businesses. Anders shares insights on menu changes, customer preferences, and innovative offerings at the pub, emphasizing the role of comfort food and local ingredients. The conversation highlights the resilience of small businesses and the importance of community support. Here's the KHA Facebook page And mark your calendars for the August 16th Richmond Hill Rotary Club Beer Festival

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre speaks with John Holland and Grace Quinsey about their upcoming performance of HMS Pinafore. They discuss the roles they play, the story and themes of the opera, its significance in the world of musical theatre, and the details of the production. The conversation highlights the joy and humor of Gilbert and Sullivan's work, the importance of community engagement in the arts, and the excitement surrounding the performance. Performances Thursday July 17th & Friday July 18th, 7:30 pm, at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts. Click HERE to purchase tickets. Home - Opera York

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre interviews Caitlin Carmichael, a project manager at the Toronto Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), focusing on the Able to Explore project. Caitlin shares her background in environmental social work and her journey towards making outdoor education accessible for underserved communities. The conversation delves into the importance of accessibility in nature, the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, and the need for inclusive programming. Caitlin discusses the project's goals, including creating nature-based programs and addressing socioeconomic disparities in access to green spaces. The episode emphasizes the significance of community engagement and the role of feedback in developing effective outdoor initiatives. If you have questions about the Able to Explore project or want to receive the guidelines that will be created through the initiative, please reach out to Caitlin at [email protected] Check out these links: https://trca.ca/accessibility/ https://trca.ca/about/accessibility-trca-facilities/

In this engaging conversation, Marj Andre speaks with Faseeh Saleem, a design researcher and interdisciplinary artist originally from Pakistan. Faseeh shares insights into his artistic journey, the influence of his diverse background, and his recent exhibits in Canada. The discussion delves into the themes of identity, community, and the role of art in public spaces. Faseeh also highlights his upcoming workshop aimed at exploring personal narratives through garment reconstruction, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and creativity in fashion. Click HERE to sign up for his workshop. Here are ways to learn more about Faseeh. HOME PhD Thesis PUBLICATIONS LINKEDIN INSTAGRAM You may want to explore this artisticxploratorium.space |

On this podcast Marj talks with Nilda Bastone-Patey about her lived experiences and the program, including a June 25th welcoming dinner, at CCSYR. It is a peer-led support and empowerment group for straight spouses and partners navigating the emotional journey after a partner comes out and acknowledged publicly that they are gay. Click HERE for more information and to register

In this podcast, Marj Andre speaks with Elena Shlensky, Elena Nazarov, and Vadim Shlensky about the upcoming Luminis Richmond Hill Vocal Arts Festival Gala. They discuss their backgrounds, the choir's mission, the significance of a cappella singing, and the diverse lineup of performers at the gala. The conversation highlights the importance of community, the healing power of music, and the logistical challenges of organizing a large-scale event. Click HERE to order tickets www.luminischoir.com Follow them on Facebook (20+) Facebook

In this podcast, Marj Andre speaks with Limor Benezra, a passionate yoga instructor who has transformed her approach to teaching seniors. Limor shares her journey into yoga, the benefits of movement for older adults, and how she has created a warm, engaging environment for her students. Through innovative classes and a focus on positivity, she has fostered a sense of community and connection among her students, leading to remarkable transformations in their lives. Limor emphasizes the importance of spreading love and kindness, and her commitment to continual learning and improvement in her teaching methods. She can be contacted at [email protected]

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre interviews Ana Kippel, the program director for Sunshine Therapy Dogs in York Region. Marj and Ana discuss the mission and growth of the organization, the assessment process for therapy dogs, how individuals and organizations can request visits, and the profound impact therapy dogs have on mental health and community connection. Ana shares her experiences with her therapy dogs and emphasizes the importance of empathy and volunteerism in this rewarding field. Ana can be reached at [email protected] If you are interested in volunteering, the assessment date is July 12th, and you can register online. Check out their website with lots of adorable photos! Sunshine Therapy Dogs

In this conversation, Marj Andre speaks with Saeed Vahid about his involvement with Strong Towns Richmond Hill, a grassroots movement aimed at improving community living through better urban planning and civic engagement. Saeed shares the origins of the Strong Towns movement, its goals, and the importance of community involvement in addressing local issues. He emphasizes the need for inclusivity, safety in transportation, and collaboration with local government, while also highlighting the diversity of Richmond Hill as a strength. The discussion encourages residents to take ownership of their community and work together for positive change. Strong Towns Richmond Hill Strong Towns

In this conversation, Marj Andre interviews Eduardo Morales, the organizer of Skill Share Social Club, which aims to foster community through skill-sharing and a gift economy. Eduardo shares his personal journey from feeling isolated to building connections and emphasizes the importance of community in addressing societal issues. The discussion covers the principles of the gift economy, the right to repair movement, critiques of capitalism, and the upcoming events of Skill Share Social Club, highlighting the need for grassroots community engagement and support. Do you want to contact Eduardo - https://linktr.ee/skillsharesocialclub Here's the link to the June 28th event Skill Share Social Club Tickets, Sat, 28 Jun 2025 at 1:00 PM | Eventbrite Curious about Life.School.House ?

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre speaks with four women from humanKIND Toronto, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting women and children living in shelters. The conversation covers the organization's origins, its various campaigns and programs, and the importance of community support. The guests share their personal motivations for being involved and discuss the impact of their initiatives, including fundraising events and on-site programming. They also reflect on the community's strengths and the need for continued support for vulnerable populations. Check them out! humanKIND (20+) Facebook humanKIND toronto (@humankind_toronto) • Instagram photos and videos And here's their May 30th CREATE FOR A CAUSE 2025 — humanKIND

In this engaging conversation, Marj Andre interviews Graham Giancola, a young media enthusiast from Richmond Hill. Graham shares his unique background, including his adoption from Georgia, (the country) and his journey into the world of YouTube and media education. He discusses his experiences in radio and television broadcasting, the evolution of content creation, and his upcoming music release that celebrates 2000s culture. The conversation also touches on the importance of community and personal connections in his life. Check out Graham's creations: YouTube: Main channel: https://www.youtube.com/@grahamgiancola6477 "Vibin With G": https://www.youtube.com/@vibinwithg1182 Da Cuzzins!" https://www.youtube.com/@dacuzzins2952 Twitter/X: https://x.com/gcglego14?s=21 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gman_rh_02?igsh=MWxwMzV5anBqZTYwcQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre interviews Michael Freethy, marketing manager with the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts, discussing the upcoming 25-26 season. They reflect on the previous season's successes and challenges, including ticket sales and audience engagement. Michael shares insights into the marketing strategies behind the promotional materials and the process of selecting shows for the season. The conversation highlights various series, including the Canadian series, Icon series, Rock series, and Family series, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and the role of memberships. They also touch on the TIFF film circuit and its impact on local cinema culture, concluding with Michael's appreciation for the community's support of the arts. 25.26 RHCPA Presents

In this podcast, Marj Andre interviews Lucy Gray about the upcoming Compassionate Action Conference, which aims to unite various sectors to promote compassion globally. They discuss the conference's structure, keynote speakers, networking opportunities, and the importance of community engagement. Lucy shares her background with the Charter for Compassion and emphasizes the need for collaboration across different fields to foster a compassionate world. Check it out The Compassionate Action Conference

In this podcast, Marj Andre interviews Michael Frankfort about the upcoming live music event at Archibald's Pub featuring his band, No Class, and another band called The Same. They discuss the formation of No Class, the differences between the two bands, the significance of the event for the community, and the creative process behind their music. Michael shares insights on audience reactions, his favorite songs, and the importance of music education, while also expressing his love for the Richmond Hill community. For information about the event Turn It Up – A Night of Live Rock at Archibald’s | OnRichmondHill

Jim Lang expresses himself in many ways, particularly as an author and broadcaster. Check out his books Jim Lang | Official Publisher Page | Simon & Schuster You can hear him on The Morning Show – 105.9 The Region On May 15th, 2025 he will be at the Richmond Hill Central Library Toronto Legends Podcast presents: An Evening with Jim Lang | Events | Richmond Hill Public Library

This is part two of the conversation with Kory Livingstone. We talk about how he makes his custom-made songs and his motivational musical keynotes. Here is the first podcast Music motivates To find out more http://www.korylivingstone.com/

Orvin Lao has just been with this church for 5 months. He welcomes you to this beautiful place. Light On The Hill Orvin can be reached at [email protected]

Artist Tazeen Qayyum has a provocative art installation at the Central Library (until June 1). Patterns of red cockroaches. Hear her talk about her work and the meaning of this symbol. Here is her website Tazeen Qayyum Check out the art installation in the Glass Cases at the Central Library entrance Tazeen Qayyum "In the Shadows" Art Installation | OnRichmondHill

Musicologist and choir director, John Holland, talks about the music and the practicing for Chorus York's next concert, Voices of Spring. The concert date is May 10th, 7:30 pm Concerts | Chorus York And check out John's website John Holland - Baritone, Conductor, Musicologist

Marj listens to Kory tell his story of becoming a musician. He's now using music to motivate you move forward. To find out more http://www.korylivingstone.com/ Check out his tunes on Spotify

Here's his web site Joshua Sideris - People's Party of Canada

Here's her website Juni Yeung - Candidate in Richmond Hill South for the Canadian Future Party

Here's her web site Yan For MP

Here's her web site Alison Lam – Green Party Of Canada

Here's his web site Majid Jowhari

Here's his web site Ebrahim Astaraki « Canada's NDP

Here is Tom Muench's web site Tom Muench – Green Party Of Canada

See her website for more information. leah Taylor Roy

Marj reached out to the 7 candidates in this riding. These are the questions asked: What is your vision for Canada? What are your concerns with Trump’s tariff policies? And are there particular concerns for Richmond Hill? How does your party wish to see the Canadian arctic developed and defended? How does your party plan on addressing the challenges of climate change? How would you rate the threats of cyber-attacks? What resources should be allocated to cyber security? There is a real shortage of housing. Do you support the federal government building some form of housing? Journalism can be regarded as essential to democracy. Your thoughts? What is your opinion of CBC? Seven Fun facts about the candidates Do you speak other languages? Are you a good cook? Would you prefer your laundry detergent to smell like lavender or lemon? What do you consider a better pet – a cat or a dog? Are you an earlier riser or a night owl? Name three of your favourite places to visit in Canada. Do you prefer to sit in the front of the bus or the back of the bus? 6 of the 7 candidates responded (the Conservative candidate did not) Here is the order and the time the candidate begins their responses Majid Jowhari - Liberal Party of Canada Ebrahim Astarak - New Democratic Party - starting at 19:25 mark Alison Lam - Green Party of Canada - starting at 31:33 mark Joshua Sideris - People's Party of Canada - starting at 48:22 mark Juni Yeung - Canadian Future Party - starting at 1:06:40 mark Yan Wang - Independent - starting at 1:23:39 mark

Marj reached out to the 4 candidates in this riding. Leah Taylor Roy (Liberal) and Tom Muench (Green Party) responded. These are the questions asked: What is your vision for Canada? What are your concerns with Trump’s tariff policies? And are there particular concerns for Richmond Hill? How does your party wish to see the Canadian arctic developed and defended? How does your party plan on addressing the challenges of climate change? How would you rate the threats of cyber-attacks? What resources should be allocated to cyber security? There is a real shortage of housing. Do you support the federal government building some form of housing? Journalism can be regarded as essential to democracy. Your thoughts? What is your opinion of CBC? Seven Fun facts about the candidates Do you speak other languages? Are you a good cook? Would you prefer your laundry detergent to smell like lavender or lemon? What do you consider a better pet – a cat or a dog? Are you an earlier riser or a night owl? Name three of your favourite places to visit in Canada. Do you prefer to sit in the front of the bus or the back of the bus? Tom Muench's responses begin at the 22.37 mark

Marj talks with David West about his recent trip to the Hannover Messe tradeshow in Germany. A Richmond Hill business, Maple Advanced Robotics, won a major award. David was telling a lot of people that Richmond Hill is a great place to set up a business.

Marj talks to Dallas Parkhurst, one of the gardeners up at the Forster Collective Garden at Phyllis Rawlinson Park. He loves what he grows and is happy good food given to the food bank. Click HERE for more information and to apply to have one of the remaining plots

Marj talks with quilters Sandra Vessel and Martha Schellingerhoud from the Region of York Quilters Guild. What really is a quilt? What makes a good quilt? Their 40th Anniversary Quilt Show is April 26th & 27th. Check out all of the details of this event and find out more about their guild. Region of York Quilters Guild

Marj talked with Wendy, the owner of Archibald's. It started back in 1988. Some great memories are there. An extensive menu, which Wendy keeps tweaking. Check out the web site Discover the Best Pub in Richmond Hill: Archibald's - Archibalds Pub Richmond Hill's First Pub And here's their lineup: Monday: Trivia Night at 7:30 PM Friday: Karaoke at 10:00 PM Saturday: Live music at 10:00 PM Sunday: Painting Night – check the website for more details

Marj Andre talks with Tevi Mandel, the general manager of Richmond Hill TopSports. They've recently expanded into Richmond Hill. There is a real focus on the youth learning more than one sport - not just hockey but soccer and lacrosse. TOP Sports | Home Tevi can be reached at [email protected]

Find out how you can donate your old electronics so that they can get reused or recycled : How to donate your electronics to Earthly Bros for donation to the ERA – Earthly Alex For more information, contact Alex and Sam at [email protected] .

Sarah tells her story, and her founding of Miskwaadesi Studio. She would love for you to join her at the library to connect and learn a craft. Email [email protected] Webpage: www.miskwaadesi.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miskwaadesi.studio/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahloretta/ Discover Sarah's workshops in the Library Program Guide | Richmond Hill Public Library

Richa tells her story of becoming a franchise owner of Nurse Next Door and gives some advice for staying well. Here's the franchise's web site 24/7 Home Care Services | Skilled & Non Skilled | Nurse Next Door Meet Richa Richmond Hill - 24 Hour Senior Home Care & Elder Nursing Care Read about Bold Kindness

Janet Fournier invites you to her web site, Temperanceville Church, and performances janetfournier.ca or listeningroom.ca To Read about Calming Notes: https://www.janetfournier.ca/general-4 Upcoming events: St. Patrick's Dinner and Music Temperanceville United Church. Saturday March 15 "Calming Notes" a Toronto Waldorf School Fundraiser Event. April 3rd, 2025 7:30pm. Contact: Jennifer Deathe [email protected] "Connecting With Your Nervous System: The Beginning to Feeling Better" March 28th (7-9pm) and March 30th (9:30am - 3:30pm): An 8-hour workshop gathering at the Corner Spa in Stouffville. A soulful setting where we will explore the path toward a more regulated nervous system in a supportive community environment. And check out Temperanceville United Church