By Margie Casallas The 7th Annual Welcome BBQ that took place at the Halifax south Commons on July 7th was a big hit. The Welcome BBQ is organized each year by a committee representing many organizations that serve newcomers in our region. Community organizations, partners and volunteers arrived at the site early to set up the BBQ, organize the tents, test the sound system, husk the corn and make sure that everything would be ready for when newcomers and Halifax residents arrived to enjoy this multi-cultural event. Local percussion group Samba Nova opened the floor and people danced despite the rain. The event also had the participation of a Nepali group who was singing and dancing traditional music and Zumba instructors who engaged everyone in fast and energetic steps…uno, dos, tres…jump! Uno, dos, tres, turn around! Attendees also enjoyed free hot dogs, corn, sweet potatoes slices and a delicious cake! Kids played soccer and badminton, got their faces painted, received free books and enjoyed watching the police dog Steeler demonstrate his duties. This event is truly an example of commitment from many community organizations, partners and volunteers to welcome newcomers and celebrate multiculturalism in our community! Thanks to everyone who made this event successful! We will see you next year….rain or shine. Community partners and contributors included: African Diaspora Association of the Maritimes (ADAM) All Women’s Empowerment and Development (AWEDA) Carpenter Millwright Trades College Frontier College Fusion Halifax Greater Halifax Partnership  Halifax Regional Police Halifax Water HRM Volunteer Services HRM Fire and Emergency Services HRM Recreation Immigrant Settlement and Integration Services (ISIS) Royal Seniors Club YMCA Author: Margie Casallas  Margie Casallas is a Coordinator for the Immigration Employer Support Program. This program is a Greater Halifax Partnership initiative to shift attitudes about hiring newcomers and educate business owners on the benefits of hiring an immigrant. To book an appointment with Margie: mcasallas@greaterhalifax.com or 490.7464   ...