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continued from p.13 There were also children's amusements, memory boards where visitors could share their reflections about OTMH, and the opportunity to explore historical spots throughout the facility and its well-treed grounds. Event MC and Halton Healthcare Services (HHS) Board Chair Lorenzo Biondi offered words of thanks to the hospital's physicians and volunteers, and spoke of a hospital that consistently attended to "thousands and thousands of members of the communities in their most critical times," despite the town's swiftly growing numbers -- immediately following the return of Second World War veterans, and beyond. "This hospital has left an unforgettable mark on this community over the 65 years that it has been in operation. Today, we can reflect and be thankful for what this hospital has provided to us, and say goodbye," said Biondi. He was among numerous officials who spoke ahead of the public celebrations. Others attending included HHS President and CEO Denise Hardenne; Dr. Daniel Sapir, nephrology specialist; Ontario Labour OTMH legacy begun on Reynolds will continue on Dundas Minister and Oakville MPP Kevin Flynn; Patte Seaton, chair, Oakville Hospital Volunteer Association; and Tina Triano, CEO, Oakville Hospital Foundation, among others. It was a celebration of the important place OTMH, in its current iteration, has held in the community's collective heart. Flynn thanked OTMH's medical team, staff, volunteers, board and foundation, which he called "second to none in the province of Ontario, or of the country of Canada." Evoking the inevitable circle of life, he noted the role OTMH has played during Oakville residents' most important life moments. "This building holds some very special memories," Flynn said. "Some of us were born here, some of our children were born here... and I don't doubt some our great-grandchildren were born here, too." Flynn also recognized sad times, involving the loss of loved ones, had been experienced at OTMH, with families supported by the hospital's staff. Among those particularly feted during the event was Lilian `Joy' Parsons. Now 91, Parsons joined OTMH as a nurse when the hospital opened in 1950. She was quickly promoted to the position of the hospital's executive director, a position she held for 36 years. Her memories of the 327 Reynolds St. building -- including fundraising for its creation by going door-to-door during the 1940s and asking Oakville residents for donations -- were included in a short film created in honour of Saturday's closing ceremony. As a number of speakers noted, OTMH has been a "starting point" for many Oakville families. Its legacy of first-rate health care will continue on Dundas Street, where it will continue under the same, long-held name, and with many of its current staff and volunteers. 15 | Friday, October 2, 2015 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com visit our new location in oakville open year round! 1515 Rebecca St. Corner of Rebecca & 3rd line "Formerly DiversiFieD Financial services" 800-HRBloCk | HRBLOCK.CA we don't miss a thingTM WE MAKE CUSTOM FOOT ORTHOTICS! Chiropodist - Foot Specialist Call Today and book your `Complimentary'3D Foot Scan! Book online at: Schedulicity.com - Search `Atlantic Foot Care' or call (905) 483-2295. Book with Frank Keogh, D.CH. Oakville Injury & Pain Relief Center No Referral Necessary · 30 Years Experience All fees covered by most insurance plans. · Sport Orthotics · Golf · Diabetic · Dress Orthotics · Tennis · Orthopaedic Footwear · Hockey/Skate · Childrens · Compression Stockings 2169 SIXTH LINE, UNIT 2 (NORTH OF UPPER MIDDLE ROAD) (905) 483-2295 | www.oakvilleinjuryandpainrelief.com Workers Untie! Brothers and Sisters! End the tyranny of lace-up work boots with Blundstone CSA Greenpatch! Stand up for new "memory" footbeds! More cushioned working conditions! On the ground support for workers'rights! And lefts! Striking kick-toe leather protection! Strength and lightness hand in hand! Unite! Untie! #164 The CSA Greenpatch in Crazy Horse Brown. Also available in Black and Stout Brown. $199.95 The door that opens so many more. Recognized as one of Canada's finest elementary schools, Fern Hill provides the educational foundation that allows ideas, thinking and confidence to flourish. Opening doors and a world of opportunities. Inspiring young minds and unleashing unlimited potential. OPEN HOUSE Saturday, October 24th, 9am-Noon 3300 Ninth Line, Oakville, ON Ph: 905-257-0022 fernhillschool.com