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Thursday, June 1st to Sunday, June 4th, 2017 Page 3 Parade presented by Theme "Made in Canada" Come join in on the fun! Enjoy bands, dancers, Shriners, animals & horses, schools, local groups & businesses as we all celebrate this long tradition in Brooklin. We invite the children of Brooklin to be in the parade - Any child from 0-13 can enter - Wear a costume, decorate your bike/ scooter or wagon in the parade theme. Win prizes! Visit the fair website for more details www.brooklinspringfair.com Brooklin Spring Fair Parade Hosted by the BAM Lions Club Saturday, June 3rd Starts at 10:30 at Baldwin Street and Carnwith Drive Made in Canada I love a parade by Sheree Nicholson Brooklin is about community and a sense of belonging. We know our neighbors; our kids grow up going to the same schools and in some cases will make lifelong friends. We are multicultural, interested in our town, caring and open to newcomers. The many events held in Grass Park bring us to the centre of town for celebration, common interests and connection. My all-time favorite event is the Brooklin Spring Fair parade; I try not to miss it. When I lived on Baldwin Street, the parade would go right past my front yard. My late husband, our grandkids and I would put out lawn chairs and have front row seats for the festivities. My grandkids would be bursting with excitement and, truthfully, so was I. The parade brings together our community like no other event. Families line the parade route, kids bouncing with anticipation and the many participants really showcase what Brooklin is about. I love the Shiners, those men in the little cars, who fundraise for their children's hospitals. Did you know that until 2012 they offered free medical care for children; they still offer it for free if there is no medical insurance. The many dance studios participating in the parade provide our children with safe places to express themselves and grow. There are sports teams, bands, my personal favorite being the bagpipe band. I love to see the floats and the happy children. It's another great day spent with my family. When I was young, my parents would take us each year to Toronto's Santa Claus parade. So the Brooklin Parade revives those memories. Parades are where old meets young, community links with each other and memories are created. So this year, when you attend the parade, take a deep breath and feel the connection to our wonderful community.