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WINTER EDITION

As 2013 draws to a close, INSIDE so does the 60th Anniversary celebrations THIS ISSUE for Community Living Brant. The Planning Committee for the Pathway to Accreditation ……………1 60th Anniversary celebrations has been hard at work through- out the year organizing events to commemorate our great Summer Fun……………………...……2 agency. In January, we started out with the 60th Anniversary Out and About ……...…………...….3-4 Logo contest for the next event in February, R.E.A.C.H. Out Staff Appreciation …………….....…..5 Self Advocates hosted a very successful Shrove Tuesday Pan- cake Supper. The Parent’s Group hosted a Nostalgia Tea in Breast Cancer Awareness..…..…..…...6 April which was a wonderful time to reminisce. In June, we Trips …...……………..…………...... …7 had a superb Gala evening for Staff Appreciation and the Christmas Wish List ……………..…8-9 Annual General Meeting. Over the summer months, we had a fantastic Summer Barbeque and the popular Circle of Achievements ………….……….…...10 Friends Charity Golf Tournament. In November, we will be Reunited …..…………………….…...11 hosting the Annual Charity Bonspiel and participating in the th Youth Leaders on Board ...……….…12 Brantford Santa Claus Parade with our 60 Anniversary Float. In December, we end the 60th Anniversary celebrations with Milestones ..…………….…………....13 our Christmas Dinner and Dance. The Committee would like Moving On... ………….………………14 to thank everyone who worked hard throughout the year to OEYC: Brant ………………………….15 make our celebrations a success. It has been great fun and we are looking forward to 2023 when we celebrate 70 years!! Fundraising Updates ………………..16 366 Dalhousie Street, Brantford, ON N3S 3W2 Tel: (519) 756-2662 www.clbrant.com Images Winter 2013

Pathway to accreditation

Community Living Brant will be seeking accreditation with the Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL). We have a longstanding relationship with CQL as we use their Personal Outcomes Measures:  to direct people’s support plans  as a tool to measure quality of life and quality of services for people.

Community Living Brant believes in the values demonstrated by CQL, first and foremost that services are person-centered. This means that each person is supported to live his or her own life - to plan, to contribute, to participate, to choose and to feel respected and valued.

Basic Assurances CQL’s Basic Assurances® build on compliance with licensing and certification standards by incorporating the provision of safeguards from the person’s perspective. This means the effectiveness of the system or the policy is determined in practice on a person by person basis. There are 10 factors identified as Basic Assurances that are the essential, fundamental and non-negotiable requirements for all service and support providers to achieve accreditation.

 Rights Protection  Safe Environments  Dignity & Respect  Staff Resources  Natural Support Networks  Positive Services  Protection from Abuse  Continuity & Security  Best Health  Basic Assurances Monitoring. Within Community Living Brant, each of the 10 Basic Assurances has a working group comprised of a person receiving services, direct support staff, and a management and/or administrative staff. The working groups report to the agency’s Quality Enhancement Committee. Community Living Brant has a Basic Assurances Work Plan which outlines all the projects and tasks that are to be completed in order to engage in accreditation with CQL. Some key projects underway include:  Creating an emergency preparedness course for people receiving services  Implementing a comprehensive rights assessment to complement our rights training for people we support to help people understand and can exercise all the rights important to them  Developing a comprehensive health supports resource tool for support staff  Creating and sharing a list of successful strategies staff have utilized to assist people in finding and reconnecting with family members with whom they have lost contact.  Implementing an enhanced process for gathering information regarding satisfaction with services.

For more information regarding Community Living Brant and its work in moving towards accreditation, please contact Debbie Cavers, Director of Quality, Organizational Development & OEYC:Brant at [email protected] or 519-756-2662, Ext 205.

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Images Winter 2013 Summer fun

Community Living Brant hosted its annual the end of the day – “Let’s do this again next Summer BBQ on Thursday July 25, 2013 from 2:00 year”!! Well I think maybe we will!! p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at Mohawk Park in Brantford. It We would like to offer our sincere thanks to the was a perfect day to hold this great event fine people at Albemarle who organized the which, this year, paid tribute to the 60th photo booth, the fine people at Spartan who Anniversary of our agency. organized the sponge toss, Norma and From 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. revellers had the Cathy – who went and picked up ALL of those opportunity to giant bags of participate in ice, “Little” Jim games such as Hladish who Bingo, water organized and balloon toss, played all of soccer, sponge the great mu- toss, parachute sic, Mrs. Jane and much Torok for her more. A photo kind donation booth was set of Beanie up and Babies as prizes everyone was (in memory of invited to get her late their picture husband, taken wearing John), Jane’s funny glasses, friend, Karen hats and for making and disguises. We donating also had a cupcakes for bubble gum dessert, Gary blowing con- Kusch for test and a helping with “Twist” contest with prizes being awarded to the shopping and Dave Ellins and friends who enthusiastic participants. Everyone had worked volunteered their time to BBQ the food. Under up a hunger by 4:00 p.m. just in time for the the competent leadership of Carolyn Jarvis, the hamburgers, hotdogs and treats to be served Supported Living team at Head Office organizes up. It was a really fun time with many people this BBQ each year and every time the BBQ offering this suggestion as they left the park at draws to an end we begin talking about the next year’s BBQ and how we will make it even better!!!

PG 2 Celebrating 60 years of supporting people with Developmental Disabilities Out and about

Bradley went Kristie visited her family this to MacLand summer in New Jersey. While Farms to pick there, she had the opportunity out a to visit New York. She took the pumpkin to Ferry to Staten Island, had a take home tour of Ground Zero and went to decorate shopping in downtown New his house for York. She thoroughly enjoyed Fall/ her trip and wants to return Halloween. again someday soon.

Tina, Vanessa, Carey and Victor and Susan Kayla enjoyed enjoyed a day at the some Norfolk County Fair pampering at taking in all it had to the ladies spa offer. day.

Carey together with others planned a High Tea in August. Our student, Kelley, was Here’s Brenden proudly holding a instrumental in encour- green pepper, on eof his favor- aging people to plan ites that he grew in his garden and participate in this that was planted at the Burford activity. Everyone Community Garden. enjoyed scones and tea at high tea time.

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Images Winter 2013 Out and about continued

Susan and TJ enjoyed the Chelsea Guy and Nicole Braund with Snoopy Hamilton West Trolley Tour and a and getting splashed at their trip to picnic lunch at the Hamilton Harbour. Canada’s Wonderland.

Might as This is a picture of well JUMP – a Stephanie and JUMP a day , Nicole at the keeps us healthy Community in every way – Go Garden they ahead and planted this year. JUMP!!

Stephen Lalonde thoroughly enjoys Matthew Sowinski spending time watch- and Kevin ing his hard work turn Oldershaw are at into delicious food the Warplane that he and his friends Heritage Museum are enjoying. Stephen in Hamilton in the is very proud of his front of a plane. hard work and the success he has had this summer in growing a garden.

PG 4 Celebrating 60 years of supporting people with Developmental Disabilities Staff appreciation

A wonderful evening of celebration with families, people we support, staff members,

dignitaries and guests was held on June 20, 2013 at the Brant Park Inn to mark Community Living Brant’s 60 Anniversary.

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Images Winter 2013 Breast cancer awareness day

October 28, 2013 was Breast Cancer Awareness Day

The ladies from the Workers’ Committee and the Kitchen staff decided to try to help raise breast cancer awareness. We contacted the Cancer Society to request the pink breast cancer ribbons for us to sell and literature pamphlets to assist with breast cancer education. The Kitchen staff prepared special pink ribbon treats to sell and donated half of the daily lunch sales to the Cancer Society.

In total, we raised over $90.00 towards breast cancer awareness!!

Top Dawgs

Throughout the summer, “Top Dawgs” employees operated a Hot Dog venture at Dunn Enterprises with some staff assistance. Top Dawgs was located outside the Dunn building and they sold a variety of different menu options. They were successful with this small business and have since decided that a few of the people involved will continue this next year. They plan to do this independently. Watch for Top Dawgs next year. Thanks to all who visited Top Dawgs this year, your support was appreciated.

PG 6 Celebrating 60 years of supporting people with Developmental Disabilities Christmas Wish List

Dear Santa, We have been very good this year at balancing our budgets. However, we could use a little extra help.

Bed in a Linens Towels Stereo bag

Bulletin Wal-Mart Dishes Treadmill Board Gift Cards

Coffee Computer Lowes Lighting Gift Card Maker

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Images Winter 2013 Christmas wish list continued

Shelving Blinds Pantry Laptop Cupboard Units

Outdoor Electric Bath Christmas CD player fireplace Towels Decorations

Christmas Kitchen Movie Cutting CD’s supplies Tickets Boards

To make an online monetary donation to Community Living Brant please visit….

PG 8 Celebrating 60 years of supporting people with Developmental Disabilities trips

My Trip to Holland My name is Connie VanDeloosdrecht, I wanted to share my story about my trip to Holland. This is actually my 11th time going to Holland with my family. I left for Holland with my dad, Arie, on September 13th 2013. We went to Holland to visit my aunt, uncle and many cousins. We went shopping and I loved to sit in the sun. I attended Sunday morning Church for the Dutch service. The Dutch language was hard to understand. We attended my cousin Anika and Addy’s wedding. It was very nice. I was able to see my cousin’s, Corrine and Julian, they are twins. I visited with many relatives and friends. I was happy to be home again to see all of my family and friends. I brought presents back and everyone loved them!

Fishing Trip to Quebec Jack enjoyed a summer fishing trip to Quebec at the following resort by the name of La Reserve Beauchene. Jack had a personal fishing guide by the name of Clive, who took Jack to all the hot fishing spots. Jack and Clive caught many fish, ate lots of good grub and shared all their personal fishing tales. Both Clive and Jack have already planned out their next fishing adventure for next summer.

Summer Vacation in Pefferlaw Peter had an awesome time for 3 days in Pefferlaw, Ontario at the Eaglewood Resort where he enjoyed the nature walks, birds and watching the geese in the pond in front of his cabin. Peter had the most relaxing time at the beach where he played in the sand and soaked up the sunshine. Peter had a great summer vacation and can’t wait till next summer to do it again!

Trip to Niagara Falls My Trip to New York City Jamie went on an overnight trip to Over the last few months I have Niagara Falls and he had such a been planning a trip to New York great time. We went City. There were so many things I to the "Oh Canada wanted to do and see. On Oct Eh" dinner and show, th casino and walked 18 , 2013 my trip started. The most down by the falls. He memorable events I did were: the enjoyed the sleep- Harbour Cruise Line Sightseeing, over, especially the were I got to see New York all lit continental breakfast. up; the Statue of Liberty; Rock of The time away was a Ages and Stomp on Broadway, and last but not least, huge success as Jamie the Empire State Building, where I went as high as I doesn't normally like to be away without his sister and he could all the way up, 1,250 feet. This was a chance of a enjoyed every ounce of it. life time to see the city that never sleeps, and I had an amazing time. Valerie Douglass PG 9

Images Winter 2013 achievements

Trudy’s Hero We walked through the park on a sunny day in September. YAHOO !!!!!! I shouted. It was my favourite day of the year. It was time for the annual Terry Fox Run. Each year I walk the race with my mom Ethel. This year we were joined by former coordinator Carmen Good. We enjoyed a lunch of pizza and coffee after the race was over. I ask EVERYBODY to sponsor me for the Terry Fox Run. This year I raised $730.00. I raised the most in Burford. As a thank you, I was asked to sound the horn to start the race. I was really excited! Each year I also get a new Terry Fox Run shirt. I wear it out until it is time for the next race. There are lots of people there that I know and everyone comes to help and we are all happy together.

New Napa Team!

Charlie has joined the staff team at Napa! This new job has Charlie responsible for the upkeep of the showroom and the warehouse departments. Congratulations to Charlie for the new job. Moving forward the goal is for Charlie to eventually work more days.

Winning Photography Avid photographer, Chloe Zaluski, had another award winning experience in the Photography Contest at the 2013 Paris Fair. Chloe submitted photos in numerous categories and received a number of prize ribbons for her efforts. She received 1st Place ribbons in the categories of My Friend, Fall Colour and Any Other Subject. She received Champion ribbons in the categories of Lanes/Paths and Fall Colour. Finally, she received Merit ribbons in the categories of Dramatic Sky, Special Occasion, Any Other Subject, Train Tracks and Lanes/Paths. Congratulations Chloe!!!!

35 Years of Dedication On June 4, 2013 Dunn Vocational Services celebrated their 6th annual Employee Participation & Literacy Achievements Ceremony. This day is dedicated to all employees to show our appreciation for their hard work throughout the year and to acknowledge those with years of service and literacy achievements. This year, Glen Lickers received recognition for 35 years of dedicated participation. He was delighted to share this event with his Mom. In addition to celebration of years of participation we also celebrate literacy achievements and appreciate the Lead hands who have assisted their co-workers throughout the year. PG 10 Celebrating 60 years of supporting people with Developmental Disabilities reunited

On September 19th, 2013, one of my life long goals and dreams was realized. With warm hugs, and smiles, I welcomed my family in to my home. I met my mom, my half-sister and my step dad for the first time ever. We exchanged gifts, and began the process of getting to know each other over coffee and tea that I made for them. We were all nervous to meet for the first time, and we weren’t sure what to expect, but the visit was so comfortable for our family. We learned a lot about each other that day, and still continue to. I have photos of my family in my bedroom, and they have photos of me in their homes. I have begun to build a relationship with my sister by writing letters and sending photographs. I have a niece and a nephew, cousins, aunts and uncles. With time, I hope to meet them all, and together we will continue to build a place for me within our family. Kathleen

My name is Wayne and as an infant I was placed into foster homes and then into Huronia Regional Centre until I was 19 years old. Then, I came to Brantford and District Association. I lived in a group home for 9 months and then I lived independently from then on. I was told in the Institution that my parents died in a car accident and I had no family. Years went by and the Support Worker, Tracey Sellars, at Lynnwood group home had asked me if I wanted to find out if I have some family members somewhere out there. I hired Reunion Services and they helped me start to find information. I also had more information come in from Children's Aid Toronto that helped me connect with on of my siblings; my brother Jack. My brother, Jack, lives in Wasaga Beach and he came to see me in August 2013. In the fall, staff helped me arrange a visit to go and see Jack in Wasaga Beach. While I was there, I met Jack’s son, wife and daughter. Jack told me he has a daughter and another granddaughter who live in Georgetown and they would like to eventually meet me as well. I would like to go back in the spring to see Jack and his family again! Wayne

When John moved to Paris, the staff team was told that John did not have any family. About two years ago, John’s cousins Elaine and Edith contacted Community Living Brant to find out if their cousin received supports from the Agency. From initial visits at John’s home, his experience with family has expanded. This past summer John was able to travel to his cousin’s home in Scarborough. This was different from other visits John has had at his cousin’s home because he stayed overnight. This is the first time in over fifty years that John has stayed with family at their home. John’s cousin, Elaine, invited John to come to her place in July to coincide with the Guild Alive Culture/Art Festival that was occurring in her neighborhood. There was music and displays all of which John really enjoyed. This was a great experience for John. The staff supporting John was happy to see the bond that John and Elaine have. John and Elaine have a deep respect and understanding that has been maintained even despite the years that have passed. “To be rooted is perhaps the most important and least recognized need of the human soul” (Simone Weil) PG 11

Images Winter 2013 Youth leaders on board

The Board welcomes Claire Speirs, a Laurier Student, as our newest Board Member Director. Claire came to the Board through the "Youth Leaders on Board" initiative offered through the Brantford campus of Wilfrid Laurier University. This program matches undergraduate students with non-profit boards in the Brantford area who are looking to bring a youth perspective to their boards. Claire is from Brantford and is currently enrolled in the Honours Bachelor of Arts, Leadership, and Human Rights and Human Diversity Program at Laurier. We hope this experience lays some of the foundation for Claire's lifelong interest in board development.

Access2Card What is the Access 2 Entertainment Card? The Access 2 Entertainment Card provides persons with a disability to receive either free admission or a significant discount for their support person at member movie theatres and attractions across Canada. This program was developed by an advisory group of nine national disability organizations, in conjunction with Famous Players and Cineplex Galaxy.

How does it work? Present the Access 2 Entertainment Card when purchasing tickets with your support person at participating movie theatres. It is that simple! Note: The person with a disability pays regular admission.

Who can apply? Persons with a permanent disability who require a support person when attending a movie theatre are eligible for the card. There are no age restrictions. The applicant (or guardian) must agree to follow the terms and conditions for use of the card.

Who is a support person? A support person is an individual who accompanies a person with a disability to provide those services that are not provided by theatre employees, such as assisting the person with eating, administering medication, communication and use of the facilities.

How do I apply? The person with the disability who requires the support of an attendant must fill out and submit the application form (a legal guardian may also fill out the form on their behalf, The application form can be downloaded and printed form www.access2card.com under the “Application” section or can be sent to you by contact- ing a member of the Access 2 Entertainment team by phone or email.

There is an administrative fee of $20 for the Access 2 card. The card will be printed in the applicant’s name and will be valid for five years. Once the application form has been received, new cards are printed and sent out within 3-5 weeks.

PG 12 Celebrating 60 years of supporting people with Developmental Disabilities milestones

Viola celebrated her 80th birthday party with a large family reunion consisting of about sixty people to celebrate this milestone birthday! Viola kicked off her 80th birthday celebration with a trip to Memphis, Tennessee, where she visited Graceland, enjoyed carriage rides in the streets and a river boat dinner. Viola took in the main sites on “Beale Street with a cold beer in hand!

Gary Holder has celebrated two milestone occasions this summer. On July 26 Gary turned 70 years young and celebrated with a family party in Aurora, his home town. A few weeks later, on August 18, Gary celebrated his recent retirement from the Wayne Gretzky Sports Center where he has worked for the past 28 years. Many coworkers, past and present, along with family celebrated with Gary at the Liquid Lounge. He was presented with a plaque which read “A proud CUPE 181 brother whose retirement will create a void in the operation. A great friend who has touched many lives, his smiling face will truly be missed.” We wish Gary all the best in his retirement. Congratulations Gary!

On August 1st, 2013 Joanne Riddolls turned 75 years old. How did she celebrate? Her cousin planned a surprise lunch in her honour at Kings Buffet! Joanne was thrilled to be able to spend the afternoon with cousins’, aunts and some of her cousins grandchildren. She loves them all so much! After lunch, Joanne spent the rest of the day out on the family farm.

Robin officially retired from the Dunn building in August. Robin enjoyed two retirement parties one with his coworkers at the Dunn Building and the second party was with family and friends. Robin is enjoying his retirement with leisurely train rides, visiting with friends and volunteering at the Food Bank.

We wish Robin all the best in his retirement!

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Images Winter 2013 Moving on...

Dear Brenda, You have taught me so much. Working with you has allowed me to see the world as you do. You have the most unique, witty personality and an amazing love for nature. I have enjoyed all our quiet walks together experiencing nature as you do. I remember being in the hospital with you and playing The Beatles “I wanna hold your hand.” You went from a distressed state to a calmness I had rarely experienced. As I held your hand and we quietly listened to the familiar tune, it was magical. We shared so many happy times together, like the cold winter evenings of everyone trying to make you laugh. The people that you lived with truly cared for you and looked over you at all times. As a staff team, we take comfort in knowing this will be your final home as you continue to enjoy your golden years. Know that we will miss you and will continue to re- main connected as we receive updates on how your life will flourish. Brenda, I know you don’t use words to communicate but that doesn’t mean you don’t understand everything we say. You have proved this on many occasions. I have been able to give people a glimpse of who you are. How funny, witty, amazing and inspiring you really are. From Sarah Elliot, Gillin “The Best and Most Beautiful Things in the World Cannot be Seen or Even Touched. They Must be Felt With the Heart” ~Helen Keller~

Brandon’s Halloween Housewarming Party!

In August, Brandon moved into his new apartment. This was a goal of his for some time now. Brandon decided to throw a housewarming party to show off his new home. On October 27th, Brandon celebrated his new apartment with friends and family. The theme was Halloween and Brandon dressed up as a Firefighter. He set his table up with yummy treats for his guests and played spooky Halloween tunes. Brandon gave everyone a tour of his new home and said he really enjoyed having his family and friends come over (including a few members from the Brantford Fire Department). Congratulations Brandon!

PG 14 Celebrating 60 years of supporting people with Developmental Disabilities Ontario early years centre: brant

30 Bell Lane PO Box 25040 Brantford, ON N3T 6K5 www.eycbrant.ca/oeyc.htm [email protected]

OEYC: Brant Grows Partnerships The old proverb that it takes a village to raise a child is one that the OEYC strongly believes in. As a result, our partnerships continue to grow. We now offer workshops for parents and children in the County of Brant in partnership with Brant Community Services. Check it out at www.brant.ca and look for the Community Services Guide. You can also find more programs in partnership with the County of Brant Public Libraries from the main website too!

Mothers in Motion Our Mothers in Motion initiative is ongoing and we welcomed a partnership with the Wish Closet at Major Ballachey School this year. Any gently used equipment that supports physical activity can be donated there to our special MIMS section for those in need. We thank all of our donor businesses for their ongoing support of this project by offering free parent and parent-child programs throughout the year. Check us out online at www.eycbrant.ca/MIMS

Association of Early Childhood Educators A partnership formed with the AECEO provided a rejuvenation evening for a local Brant Branch right here at the OEYC: Brant. Educators attened the event to learn more about bringing a local branch back to Brant and enjoyed some Professional Development and networking too. For more information on the AECEO visit www.aeceo.ca or call us at 519-759-3833 and ask to speak to Judy.

www.eycbrant.ca Continues to Grow! The fall of 2013 was an exciting time for educators in the child care sector in Brant. Through child care funding and in partnership with the City of Brantford Child Care Services and Landsdowne Children’s Centre, we launched a new online learning platform called Brant Learn ECE. Educators can now log in to www.eycbrant.ca/ece and take professional development from the comfort of their home. We hope to see 250 users of this service within a year.

The Ontario Early Years Centre: Brant (OEYC: Brant) offers a number of services for parents/caregivers and young children 0 to 6 years and for educators of children 0 to 12 years.

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Images Winter 2013 Fundraising updates

The Box Lunch took place May 1st with the help of Strodes. This year once again broke record numbers by selling over 1400 lunches and raising over $6,000.

Proceeds from this event supported Community Living Brant’s Opportunity Fund. The purpose of this fund is to provide people using Community Living Brant services with financial assistance, in the form of a grant or loan, to enhance their opportunities to achieve their personal goals.

THANK YOU Brantford and surrounding communities for your support with our 2013 Box Lunch Fundraising and Community Awareness Campaign!

On Wednesday May 8, Mayor Chris Friel joined Joanne Riddolls and Support Worker, Robin Arnold for Community Living Brant’s Flag Raising to celebrate Community Living Month.

Community Living Brant provides a variety of services to over 350 people with a developmental disability so that they may experience a meaningful life.

The agency was especially excited to be celebrating their 60th Anniversary this year and hosted a small reception at City Hall immediately after the Flag Raising to recognize this event.

On August 15 Community Living Brant hosted its 26th Anniversary Circle of Friends Golf Tournament at Brantford’s Northridge Golf Course.

Over $22, 000 dollars was raised for Community Living Brant’s Young Adults in Transition program. This program provides support for young adults with a developmental disability in transitioning from secondary school to independent community life. Picture Left to Right: Steve Csordas, Jason Richardson, Steve Winn, Walter Gretzky and Richard Ward

PG 16 Celebrating 60 years of supporting people with Developmental Disabilities

Community Living Brant would like to wish you a Joyous Holiday Season and a New Year of Happiness.

CHRISTMAS CLOSURES

Head Office will be closed: Wednesday, December 25; Thursday, December 26; Friday December 27, 2013, and Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Dunn Vocational Services will be closed: Monday, December 23, 2013 through to January 1, 2014 inclusive and will re-open Thursday, January 2, 2014

Bell Lane Respite Program will be closed: Tuesday December 24, 2013 to January 1, 2014 inclusive

Ontario Early Years Centre: Brant will be closed: Tuesday, December 24, 2013 to January 1, 2014 inclusive and will re-open Thursday, January 2, 2014.

OEYC Satellite Programs will be closed effective Effective Saturday, December 21, 2013 to January 5, 2014 inclusive and will re-open Monday, January 6, 2014.

366 Dalhousie Street, Brantford, ON N3S 3W2 Tel: (519) 756-2662 www.clbrant.com Images Winter 2013