‘Waz up….for Youth Week?!
Mira Persaud and Arthur Zhou, co-chairs of Richmond Hill’s Youth Action Committee (YAC), delivered a presentation to Council outlining the group’s recent accomplishments and upcoming events. YAC is comprised of a group of Richmond Hill residents in grades six to 12 who provide staff and Council with advice and input on issues of concern to youth in the community. Council heard about the many fun events the committee has been involved with including participating in the Santa Claus Parade, organizing the inaugural Hill After Dark cultural event and Race Around the Hill. Upcoming events include a wide range of activities in celebration of National Youth Week (May 1 to 9), including an archery clinic, field trips to local attractions, cake decorating, a coffee house and open mic afternoon, badminton and hoops, a cooking competition, youth arts and crafts and a video dance. YAC will also host its 4th annual Future Leaders in YACtion Conference on June 6 at Langstaff Community Centre for Richmond Hill students in grades 7 to 10. The event is dedicated to the celebration of youth and their active participation in their community. Council was also informed that YAC members Mira Persaud, Arthur Zhou and Brennan Wong, were each recently recognized with the Ontario Volunteer Service Award at a provincial ceremony recognizing youth under the age of 24 who have volunteered for two or more years with the same organization. For more information contact Lauren Steckley, Manager of General Programs, 905-787-1441, ext. 224.

Snakes in the Park?!
As Richmond Hill looks forward to the upcoming summer months, Council approved the proposed names of two new parks. The first, Snakes & Ladders Park (located northwest of Bayview and 19th Avenue), is a life-size snakes and ladders board game that residents can play with family and friends. The game starts in the play area at the south end of the park and ends at the top of the hill at the snake's head. There’s also a junior and senior playground, and a picnic table with a built in snakes and ladders game board for those who enjoy a more passive game. The second, Meander Park (located southeast of Bathurst Street and Jefferson Sideroad) is inspired by its location within the Upper Rouge River subwatershed and the Oak Ridges Moraine. The park includes a junior and senior playground, shade structure, a meandering pathway, seating and more. The Town will seek public feedback on the names and report back to Council following the 30 day notification period. For more information, visit RichmondHill.ca/ParksDesign or contact Dan Harrietha, Parks Planning Technician at 905-771-2474.