Help Choose Our Town Bird!
I’m excited to share an update on a unique community initiative I’ve been involved with.
Halton Hills is in the process of identifying a Town Bird! Bird Friendly Halton Hills and the Town of Halton Hills are collaborating on this project, and in round one, more than 2,000 people voted. The finalists are the Eastern Screech Owl, the Great Blue Heron, and the Northern Cardinal.
These three birds are currently featured in the Art for the Birds exhibition at the Sisnett Lobby in the Halton Hills Public Library. You can vote in person at both library branches, both Hillsview Active Living Centres, Town Hall, or online through Let’s Talk Halton Hills. Voting closes October 11, and the art remains on display until October 19.
On October 4th, join Joseph Pitawanakwat and Junaid Kahn of Creators Garden for a talk at the Helson Gallery, exploring the meaning of bird names in Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe language) and how they reflect deep connections between people, birds, and the environment.
On October 18th, we’ll gather again at the Helson Gallery for the closing celebration of Art for the Birds and the announcement of the Town Bird! The event begins at 2:30 p.m. with an informal meet-and-greet, followed at 3:00 p.m. by live entertainment, an artist spotlight, a preview of our upcoming Bird Friendly Pledge, and the official reveal of the Town Bird by Mayor Ann Lawlor.
Guests will also have the chance to become Early Bird Champions during this special pre-release — with prizes to be won!
It’s been a joy to help bring this initiative forward. I hope you’ll join me in celebrating this milestone for our community as we honour art, nature, and our feathered neighbours. Don’t forget to cast your vote!