Hamilton, ON – The board of directors for Westdale Cinema Group announced today that Bernadette Curtis has finished her term as Chair of the Board. The Board has elected Ed McMahon to succeed Bernadette as Chair.  Bernadette will continue to serve as a board member, as she has done since 2019.

Ed McMahon has been a dedicated member of The Westdale board since 2019 and brings with him a wealth of experience in volunteerism and community engagement. His extensive background includes leadership roles with Cubs and Scouts Canada, serving as a founding member of the Share the Road Cycling Coalition, and a distinguished tenure with Habitat for Humanity, where he concluded his volunteer service as Chair of the National Board of Directors in 2019.

“I am grateful for the confidence that my board colleagues have expressed in electing me Chair of the Board,” said Ed McMahon. “The Westdale definitely holds a special place in Hamilton’s history, and with our outstanding staff, generous volunteers and donors, and our volunteer board, I believe our future is bright as well. We owe a special thanks to Bernadette for her guidance of our board during her tenure as Chair.”

Alysha Main, Executive Director of The Westdale, expressed her excitement about Ed’s appointment: “We are thrilled to have Ed step into the role of Board Chair. His passion for community-building and his leadership experience will be invaluable as we continue to enhance the cultural landscape of Hamilton. We are confident that Ed’s vision and dedication will help guide The Westdale through its next chapter of growth and success.”

About The Westdale

The Westdale, as Hamilton’s premier independent arts venue and cinema, provides an intimate, heritage-designated cultural space for performances, exhibitions, and film screenings, showcasing independent, Canadian and world content.  We present the arts in our community 364 days a year through cinema, music, comedy, talk, and exhibitions. We also provide space and resources for our community to host its events.

For media inquiries and interviews: 

Alysha Main 
Executive Director  
The Westdale 
alysha@thewestdale.ca | 289-678-3628