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www.oakvillebeaver.com · OAKVILLE BEAVER Friday, March 12, 2010 · 20 Meeting the Oakville NDP candidates The Oakville New Democratic Party (NDP) Riding Association is gearing up for the next federal election with a public meet and greet with its two candidates standing for the nomination of the party. The event, where citizens can attend and ask questions, will be Thursday, March 18. Campaigning for the nomination are local activist Michelle Bilek, who works as a community resource manager in long-term care setting and James Ede, a teaching assistant, who is completing his Ph.D. in political science at York University. The event is from 7:30-8:30 p.m. at Williams' Coffee Pub, 1500 Upper Middle Rd. W. (905-825-8150). Ede has been a grassroots activist for years, working with the group Food Not Bombs to serve meals to the homeless throughout Ontario. He has also worked with Oxfam and Amnesty International. Bilek was the NDP candidate for Oakville during the 2008 federal election and is a board member and fundraising chair for SAVIS (Sexual Assault and Violence Intervention Services) and a director for the United Nations Association in Canada (Toronto Chapter). For information, visit www.oakvillendp.ca. Community Spirit Award nominations Do you know a community champion -- someone who deserves recognition for his or her contributions within the Oakville community? The Town of Oakville wants to hear about these outstanding individuals, organizations, businesses and groups who are active participants in the community by nominating them for an Oakville Community Spirit Award. Last year more than 40 individuals and groups were recognized. The new Access Award also recognizes contribution to the well-being and advancement of people with disabilities. Nomination forms are available at Town Hall, community centres, library branches or online at www.oakville.ca. Nominations will be accepted until April 23. The awards ceremony will be held on Wednesday, June 16, 2010 at the Oakville Conference and Banquet Centre.