By Pepper Parr
June 18th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
It was a short Council meeting.
Mayor Meed Ward applauding Gordon Schottlander during a Citizen recognition event.
Three group photo ops took place
It was also a very emotional meeting for Mayor Meed Ward. As she was recognizing Gordon Schottlander Marianne had to pause and take several moments to collect herself before she could continue.
Among the groups recognized were: Burlington Historical Society, 2024 Special Olympics Ontario and Gordon Schottlander who was recognized as the Ontario Senior Citizen of the year.
Mayor Meed Ward said: Earlier this past year, I nominated Mr Gordon Shawn lander as Ontario’s senior of the year. This award honours one outstanding local Ontarian who, after the age of 65 enriches the social, cultural or civic life of his or her community. I couldn’t think of anyone more deserving than our very own, Gordon Schottlander. MrSchottlander served as a soldier in World War II , valiantly fighting for our freedoms and peace as a 19 year old young man who, 80 years ago, this month, he landed on Juno Beach and fought bravely alongside Canadian soldiers as part of the D Day invasion that would lead to the successful end of the Second World War. He later came to Canada with his wife, Colleen, building a big and wonderful family here that now includes four sons, 16 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. His many accomplishments include President of the Junior Chamber of Commerce, chairman of the Burlington Planning Board, serving with the Knights of Columbus for many years, chairman of the committee that raised over $1 million for the local YMCA. He was named as Burlington citizen of the year 1968 and received the key to the city in 2020 he continues to make Burlington his home, living in the Aldershot area.
I have a few remarks regarding the Historical Society proclamation, and I have a certificate to present to Don Thorpe, who is representing the Historical Society. The Burlington Historical Society was founded in 1899 and is an affiliated member of the Ontario Historical Society. Their mission is to preserve and share Burlington’s past for the enjoyment and education of the community, making our history accessible and relevant for today while nurturing interest in future generations. The effort shown by the Burlington Historical Society today will inspire the generations of tomorrow to continue the traditions of community service. Thank you for the devotion to preserve Burlington’s heritage and history for 125 years.
Our final recognition this morning is for our Special Olympics team, and thank you for joining us. Those of you who could be here this morning the Special Olympics Ontario Spring Games 2024 was hosted in Waterloo Region from May 23 to 26 these games are a testament to the resilience and determination of the athletes who participated in basketball, rhythmic gymnastics, 10 pin bowling and swimming. We are so proud of all of you.
Yesterday’s council meeting awards were clearly well deserved. They represented to us the good that is quietly achieved within our city walls on a daily basis. We give thanks for all those involved in such achievements good news indeed.