Malton residents get together to celebrate

Thousands of Malton residents gathered at Malton Community Centre this afternoon for one cause: The celebration of a diverse community.
The Malton Community Festival, which changed its usual fall date to the summer this year, brings out the best in Malton's community, said MCF chair Michael Hanna.
"There's people here of all age groups and all types of cultures together in one place for one purpose," said Hanna. "We want to make Malton a better community and this is just a springboard for many of the solutions for Malton."
Natasha Henry, who moved to Malton last year, said the Festival was a great way to see other people in the community and learn about their cultures.
"This is just a positive example of how people can work together in a community for the better," said Henry, who brought her husband and two daughters, aged 2 and 10, along.
"I'm having a good time. There's a lot of activities to do," said Henry's daughter Courtney Dixon. "I like the rides a lot."
Activities, all of which are free, included a barbecue, live entertainment, community and health displays, reptilia show, nature trail walk, games for children, Kabaddi and wrestling demonstrations and iPod giveaways.
Mohin Kapadia, who has lived in Malton for the past three years, said this was his first time at the Festival but it won't be the last.
"This was a great way to interact with the people in Malton and to see the activities that the community has to offer," said Kapadia, who came with his wife and four kids. "It's such a nice atmosphere, that I'll definitely come back next year. And, of course, who doesn't enjoy a free barbecue."
Kapadia's daughter, Alisha, said she can't wait to come back next year.
"I like playing on the jumping gym," said the eight-year-old. "I'm happy my dad brought me because there's so many things to do."
The Festival concludes tomorrow with a youth talent show at MCC and a peace march around Malton starting from Lincoln Alexander Secondary School at 12:30 p.m.
For more information, visit www.maltoncommunityfestival.com.

onlinenews@mississauga.net