City Councilmember Sun Burford volunteers for many community organizations.

 How long have you lived/worked in Newcastle and what brought you to live/work in Newcastle?

12 years. Newcastle is much closer to my work without having to cross the lake daily. I love the environment, the people, the neighborhoods, and the history in Newcastle.

What are some of the ways you contribute to our community?

I have served on the board of Newcastle Arts Council, Friends of Newcastle Library, and Newcastle Trails. I have initiated, orchestrated, and organized our city’s biggest Lunar New Year Celebration with the support of Newcastle Arts Council, Friends of Newcastle Library and our community.

 Tell us a Newcastle memory.

Broadway on Boren during Newcastle Days when my daughter Glory Burford auditioned and performed a few times with the groups. It was so much fun! We enjoyed every performance. We’d like to see Broadway on Boren back in Newcastle.

 What do you hope for the future of Newcastle?

True togetherness! Everyone feels a sense of belonging. We have a historic sign “Welcome to Newcastle!” as our identity, but it’s hidden away and practically invisible. People zip through Newcastle without even realizing we are here – Newcastle is a famous city. 

 What is your idea of a perfect weekend in Newcastle?

Visiting all our local businesses! A morning walk on any neighborhood Newcastle trail, breakfast with coffee at The Coalman, activities sponsored by Newcastle Arts Council and Friends of Newcastle Library, or restful read at Newcastle Library. I’d take a casual stroll at Lake Boren Park and the Crosstown Trail and the Boardwalk, shopping at Newcastle Fruits and Produce, then have lunch and admire the panoramic view from the Calcutta Grill at the Golf Club at Newcastle, then DIY Tea Lab for refreshing milk tea or fruit tea and happy hour at Loco Chon at the Commons. I’d throw boomerangs at a local park, explore the May Creek Park Trail, savor a comforting dinner at Yang’s Kitchen, and have dessert at Frosty Barrel.