For Release - June 1, 2009
Member of Parliament Ed Holder is pleased to provide the following
article for use in your publication without charge.
Gathering on the Green
The 27th annual Gathering on the Green, on
‘The Green’ on the grounds of the former Board of Education (and
Normal School) - bordered by Elmwood and Wortley Road, Duchess and
Marley Place - is set for Saturday, June 6 from 10am to 5pm. The
event has become a recognized institution not only in Old South but
also across London West and the entire city.
Fraser Petley is the co-chair for Gathering on the Green and has
been involved in its planning for the past 10 years as well as 12
years with the Old South Community Organization, the group who plans the event each
year.
“It’s a complete institution in Old South London. It’s not unusual
for people to treat it as a homecoming. We’ve always billed it as a
way for the community to gather after a long winter,” Mr. Petley
says.
This great family event features a silent
auction, live performances all day and 60 community vendors, along
with free children’s activities.
“The
entertainment has always been a nice mix of professionals and local
kids’ bands with an Old South flavour to it. That’s what makes it
unique. Another favourite activity is Charlotte’s Tea Garden in
memory of one of our founders with tea and scones served under the
shade of the old oak trees,” Mr. Petley says. “Ed Holder, Member of
Parliament for London West and Steve Hunter will be our Masters of
Ceremonies again this year. Ed’s been there for the past 17 or 18
years. In nearly every Gathering, Ed’s played some role. Ed used to
live on Marley Place and was President of the Old South Community
Organization, so that’s how he started.”
In addition to providing a great meeting
place for friends and families, it’s also a way to give back to the
community which many Londoners, not only area residents love.
“It’s a low cost family event and the net proceeds are
re-distributed back to the community. So far it’s in excess of
$46,000 distributed between 27 community projects. There’s not a
park or playground in the area that has not been touched,” Mr.
Petley says. “This year we’ll go over $50,000 and it’s supported by
the generosity of merchants and professionals. If the sun shines
there’ll be thousands of people there.”
For more information contact the Old South Community Organization at
www.oscolondon.ca.
-30-
