 By Pepper Parr
July 24th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
What would we do without attentive, sharp eyed readers who know the smell of dead fish when it gets near their nose ?
Here is what came in today:
Are you aware of this? This is from the Mayor’s Facebook page.
What a great way to campaign on the taxpayers dime and look like a hero at the same time.
Why are the taxpayers of Burlington funding private street/block/condo parties? So I can plan a party at my condo building and the city will help pay for it?
Our taxes are already high enough. Is she going to attend every one of these parties along with the sitting councillor for the area?
The timing of this seems very questionable. I discussed this with several people – they were all dumbfounded.
Would love for you to investigate and report on. I keep thinking that I must be missing something.
 Why Mayor Med Ward thought this was acceptable – taking part in an election event that was paid for with tax payer dollars ?  It wasn’t just the Mayor that was sucking on the public “teat”; ward 6 Councillor Angelo Bentivegna was in their as well. What the reader is referring to is a city program that was put in place to give neighbourhoods and opportunity to get to know one another better and to improve parks, playground, spruce up the ravines.
The deal was, the last time we looked at it was the people applying had to come up with half of the amount they wanted to spend. That half could be “in kind”. The purpose of the grant, in the past at least, had to be spelled out and reviewed by Parks and Recreation.
Sparks will fly on this one.
It was a good program. I doubt very much that this version of the program as it played out was approved.
I expect bot the Director of Parks and Recreation, the people who run the program and the City Manager will be making phone calls on Monday.
The stunning part is that the Mayor was quite alright with seeing tax payers dollars used to pay for a campaign event.
You wonder sometimes just how far a politician will put their nose into the public trough?
The purpose of the Love My Neighbourhood program is set out pretty clearly on the city web site:
Director of Parks and Recreation Chris Glenn has this to say about the program: “Now more than ever, we need to build our sense of community and connections with our neighbours. This program is designed to help remove some barriers and build stronger connections among neighbours and communities by putting people together and having fun.”
 By Pepper Parr
July 24th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
When people decide they want to run for public office they usually want the public to know more about them.
Steve Rieck filed nomination papers which got his name on the list of people running for office that the city maintains. Included in that listing there is something in the way of contact information.
Rieck provided an email address – nothing more.
There is some information on LinkedIn, a web site where you write whatever you want about yourself – sort of a self promotion service.
Given that that is all there is at the moment – we pass it along.
There are some contact listed that we will follow up on to see just who Rieck is and why he wants to be Mayor.
Do take what is posted on LinkedIn with several large doses ofs salt. Not a word of it has been verified
About
‘An innovator that strives for constant improvement in making businesses more efficient and the world a better place.’
 Steve Rieck A well-rounded, resourceful and entrepreneurial leader and creative thinker capable and business visionary. A flexible and adaptable entpreneur and ‘people person’ who is ambitious, driven and adaptable.
Over 30 years of business experience ranges from
several start-up’s to large companies;
visioning and strategy leader;
marketing and sales roles,
processes and strategy efficiencies;
lead company turnarounds and acquisitions;
operational sales mgt, marketing, strategic alliances;
HR consulting, recruiting and staff coaching and training.
A natural networker with strong ability to ‘bring together the right mix of people and resources’ to get the job done.
Goal: to lead a high-growth organization that requires entrepreneurial energy and leadership to bring out the best in people, technology and resources to get worthwhile results.
To give back to community, I have personally started and provided seed funding for several NGO’s, Children’s health and environmental Charities and NGO’s. I have contributed as board member for a handful of technology and climate NGO’s.
My passions include the environment; technology; and working with great, ‘walk the talk’, like-minded people who want to make a difference!
Experiences:
* industry experience in environmental and green products & technologies, pharmaceutical/medical, internet, technology, software and communications industry.
* new product and marketing development,
* leading sales and dev team initiatives,
* new business research and development,
* senior sales, marcom and PR roles,
* deal-making, relationship-building and partnering,
* hiring, training and retention of staff.
* Senior mgt, new venture incubation, launch and management’An innovator that strives for constant improvement in making businesses more efficient and the world a better place.’ A well-rounded, resourceful and entrepreneurial leader and creative thinker capable and business visionary. A flexible and adaptable entpreneur and ‘people person’ who is ambitious, driven and adaptable. Over 30 years of business experience ranges from several start-up’s to large companies; visioning and strategy leader; marketing and sales roles, processes and strategy efficiencies; lead company turnarounds and acquisitions; operational sales mgt, marketing, strategic alliances; HR consulting, recruiting and staff coaching and training. A natural networker with strong ability to ‘bring together the right mix of people and resources’ to get the job done. Goal: to lead a high-growth organization that requires entrepreneurial energy and leadership to bring out the best in people, technology and resources to get worthwhile results. To give back to community, I have personally started and provided seed funding for several NGO’s, Children’s health and environmental Charities and NGO’s. I have contributed as board member for a handful of technology and climate NGO’s. My passions include the environment; technology; and working with great, ‘walk the talk’, like-minded people who want to make a difference! Experiences: * industry experience in environmental and green products & technologies, pharmaceutical/medical, internet, technology, software and communications industry. * new product and marketing development, * leading sales and dev team initiatives, * new business research and development, * senior sales, marcom and PR roles, * deal-making, relationship-building and partnering, * hiring, training and retention of staff. * Senior mgt, new venture incubation, launch and management
Activity
There are 217 followers which could mean 217 votes
Mere minutes after publishing this article we received the following from the candidate:
Coming Soon…
A New Kind of Mayor/CEO of Burlington
(if YOU want it)
A businessman, serial social entrepreneur, non-profit Executive Director, innovations consultant, climate advocate, and community leader. Industries include Cleantech, Wind Energy, E-learning, recruiting, and consulting. Recently launched innovations-based micro-venture think-tank focused on cleantech,
well-being, and social ventures.
Interest in marketing and climate psychology (why we do things we do and why we overcomplicate things and how to seek opportunities in problems). Fascinated by climate psychology and the WHY we are not solving the climate crisis. (Hint: We don’t want to!)
Community leadership roles:
Founder/co-founder/board member/lead of several community groups and initiatives from Burlington Green & BG’s Youth group, DADA, Bitnet (VP and Chair Jobfairs), AWP, Electric Vehicle Advocate, etc.
Interesting tidbits:
I love nature, jogging, biking, good people, acts of kindness, God, alone time and meditating.
TED Talks. EV’s.
 By Ray Rivers
July 23, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
As the Russians were marching into Ukraine, Canada’s PM, Mr. Trudeau reassured the President of Ukraine that Canada had his back. Mr. Zelenskyy, of course, had heard this before. Every time his government had asked for defensive weapons following Putin’s first invasion, they would receive a belly full of verbal support. But instead of arms the Ukrainians would be given palliatives, and more helmets and night goggles. The prevailing western notion was that supplying anything more useful in a conflict might encourage Russia’s Mr. Putin to invade again.
But he invaded anyways. And as the Russians were massing on the border, their intention dead clear, Canada, with great fanfare, finally flew over some sniper rifles. It was too little and way too late to help save lives and prevent the genocide that accompanied the deadly invasion. But Trudeau told Mr. Zelensky that he had something better than artillery in his quiver. Stiff sanctions would stop Putin in his tracks.
 Russian turbine being refurbished by Siemens in Montreal. It was being held under a sanctions protocol. The Nord Stream 1 is a natural gas pipeline between Russia and Germany, built by the Russians a decade ago to bypass the traditional pipeline which runs through Ukraine. It requires compressors driven by turbine engines to move the gas. One of those turbines, belonging to Russian state-owned company, Gazprom, the largest gas company in the world and largest corporation in Russia, was being refurbished in Montreal. That made it subject to Canadian sanctions and prevented its return to Russia.
But Gazprom wanted their turbine back. Gazprom uses six turbines to help move gas through this pipe but it is a huge company with more pipelines and turbines than you can shake a stick at. So this was less about that particular turbine than trying to get Canada to break its stiff sanctions. This was diplomatic blackmail and a weaponizing of gas exports.
Mr. Putin had said that if he didn’t get the turbine back he would shut down the pipeline, which supplies the EU with something like 40% of its gas. And to make the point he did shut it down, claiming it was for maintenance. The Germans realized this was nothing more than diplomatic blackmail, but they needed to replenish their gas supplies for the upcoming winter, so they asked Canada to return the turbine.
Trudeau, stuck between a rock and a hard place, did some skating. He sent the turbine to Germany, knowing full well that the Germans would return it to Gazprom. He justified his action by claiming he was keeping a NATO ally on side. But he was breaking his own sanctions, albeit indirectly. Energy is Russia’s largest source of export earnings and that helps finance Russia’s massive military and its war effort.
 Prime Minister Justin Trudeau with the German Chancellor The trade off was between helping keep Germans warm this winter or potentially slowing down Russia’s war and saving lives in Ukraine. Despite all his righteous indignation at Russia’s invasion, Trudeau had allowed Putin to break what was supposed to be a wall of stiff sanctions, turning it into more of a slippery slope. And the question is what he and other western leaders will do the next time Putin comes up with anther blackmail scheme?
The Ukrainian president was furious that the leader of the country with the second largest concentration of Ukrainian Diaspora would bow to such Russian blackmail. The Canadian and World Ukrainian congresses have decided to sue Canada for breaking its own law. And back home the opposition parties have also called out the Liberal leader.
Germany is at the centre of this political tempest. Despite being cautioned on the dangers of becoming so dependent on Russian gas exports, former Chancellor Merkel did just that. She started phasing out the country’s nuclear power plants in the wake of the Fukushima disaster and replacing that and the coal plants with Russian gas. Germany does get an impressive amount of its energy from wind power and has a goal to become 100% renewable, but it is currently more reliant than ever on gas – and much of it from Russia. So there is no question that Germany will just transfer the turbine to Gazprom, despite it’s own and EU sanctions.
No discussion of fossil fuels should be concluded without reference to climate change and global warming. The irony of the moment is that Europe is in the midst of a dangerous heat wave that is enveloping the continent. And while Europeans have been global leaders in reducing their carbon emissions, they are still married to gas.
Nobody is suggesting the best way to get off the fossil fuel addiction is to go cold turkey, by turning off the tap. But that could happen and it might be the silver lining to Putin’s weaponizing of gas exports. Since the invasion Germany has already reduced its use of gas somewhat, and is seriously moving towards carbon free hydrogen in addition to further developing its renewable energy options.
 Russian tanks preparing to roll into Ukraine Russia’s war in Ukraine will not end until Putin is gone. But before that happens Putin may well follow up on his threats and cut off the gas supplies to the EU anyway – turbine or not. And that would make Canada and Germany look foolish for having violated their high principles and caved in to the demands of the Russian tyrant by sending back that darn turbine.
It is a complicated story and it may be a turbine ‘tempest-in-a-tea pot’ but it is instructive. How did Mr. Putin, a terrorist and war criminal whose country has a GDP the size of Italy, manage to successfully blackmail western nations and make a mockery of the international sanctions regime?
Nobody should underestimate him.
 By Justina Gursky
July 25th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
 Knowing that the people you are using for online casino sport gambling are properly licensed is critical. While there are many different casino apps available on the market, finding a reputable one offering a Caesars promo code can be quite challenging.
With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to know which app is the best and most trustworthy.
That’s why we’re here to help you out.
Tips for choosing a reputable casino app in Canada
If you’re looking for a reputable casino app in Canada, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First of all, it’s important to make sure that the app has a license issued by a reputable gambling authority to ensure that the app is safe and secure to use.
Secondly, you should also check the reviews and ratings of the app before downloading it. This will give you an idea of what other users have thought about the app and whether or not it’s worth your time and money.
Finally, make sure to test out the app yourself before committing to it. This way, you can be sure that it meets your needs and expectations.
Red flags to watch out for when choosing a casino app in Canada
There are a few red flags to watch out for when choosing a casino app in Canada, so let’s explore them to keep you on the safe side.
1. The app is not available in your country – While many apps are available internationally, some are only available in specific countries. Download only the ones that are.
2. Bad reviews – If there are a lot of negative reviews, it might be best to steer clear.
3. There’s no trial period – Most casino apps offer a free trial period, so you can test out the games and features before deciding if it’s right for you and you should download only the ones that have them.
What are the consequences of choosing an unreliable casino app?
And now, let’s explore the consequences of unreliable apps.
 The banker you use for your financial transactions is important to you – it is your money and you want to know it is safe and that the banker is reliable. The first is that you may end up losing money if the app is not secure. If it is not secure, it could be accessed by someone who should not have access to it, which could lead to identity theft or fraud.
Another consequence of choosing an unreliable casino app is that you may not be able to withdraw your winnings. The app may not be linked to a reliable banking system and your winnings could disappear into thin air, and you would have no way of getting them back.
Finally, choosing an unreliable casino app could also lead to problems with customer support. If the app is not well-made, it may be difficult to get in touch with customer support in case you run into any problems, which could leave you feeling frustrated and helpless if you need assistance.
 By Pepper Parr
July 22nd, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Part 2: Queen’s 70th Jubilee celebration
Half way through and Karina Gould calls for a break – asks people to mingle, get some coffee, juice, maybe a cookie.
This crowd didn’t need any coaxing.
What the room experienced, and by this time the extent of what was taking place was very clear. The city was getting a look at people who have made the city what it is. Gould explained that the 150 word descriptions were written by the nominators – Gould’s office just typed it out.
Everyone knew some of the people who were recognized but I don’t think anyone knew all of them.
The whole was greater than the sum of the parts and we could see it – it was in the room with us.
The list of those being called forward continued..
William Leggitt
Bill has led many local and international projects through the Rotary Club, including the development of vegetable and fruit gardens in Guatemala, providing latrines to communities without water, and enabling clean water projects. He regularly participates in local food drives, fundraisers, and had worked to support the sponsorship of refugees. Bill always gives the best of himself to make his projects successful.
 Lisa Lunski working with a volunteer at Wellington United Church Lisa Lunski
Lisa has been the leader of Friday Night Community, a community service organization that has provided no-cost meals as well as clothing, snacks and so much love and care to people in the Burlington community. During the pandemic, she pivoted to support the community with pickup and drop off meal options.
John MacMillian
Born in Cape Breton, John joined the Canadian military and became a paratrooper. After moving to Burlington, he started his own company which grew to include 65 employees. John has been a leader in community AA groups for over 52 years and has mentored and counselled thousands as they overcame their addiction to alcohol, enabling them to return as healthy members of their families, workplace and our community.
Nick Manz
Nick has been the President of the Burlington Centaurs Rugby Club since 2017. Through his volunteer efforts and leadership, he has raised the rugby club from the lowest branch division to one of the top clubs in the Province with the Men’s team competing in the highest level of representative competition. Nick has increased the rugby club’s community involvement with a focus on the youth by growing the sport at the grass roots level. He actively supports women in sport in leadership roles and has recently created the Mixed Ability Rugby program, and inclusive sport program for the community.
Brian Mather
Brian had a major stroke while he was a university student. Since then, he has been involved in Burlington Stroke Recovery, and has been the President for 25 years. He also started Halton Stroke Fellowship, and during the pandemic, he regularly made calls to all members, to check in on them. He also happens to have a beautiful singing voice!
Jim McDonnell
Jim has a genuine interest and energy for helping others. He is the current President of Able Sail, a 45 year volunteer at the Sailing and Boating Club, an active Rotarian, an usher at his Church, and a member of the Burlington Seniors Centre. He didn’t let COVID slow him down, and worked to ensure he gathered friends for safe outdoor exercise, and remained fundraising for important local and international causes. His ‘formula’ for thriving as an older adult is “stay connected, stay curious, and keep moving as you help others every day.”
Blair McKeil
Blair has been deeply involved in marine transportation for most of his life, and lead his family business McKeil Marine, growing it to one of Canada’s largest marine transportation companies. Although no longer involved in the day-to-day, he provides support and mentorship. He supports countless organizations in youth, education, arts, innovation, environment, hospice care, business and much more. Blair’s focus and personal sense of duty to his community is evident in all that he does.
Nancy McKenzie
Nancy began a unique initiative during COVID called Meals of Hope, which now runs five shifts out of Port Nelson United Church. They supported Wellington Square and Gore Park Community Outreach Program. She is an active participant in a Winter Clothing Drive and supports the LGBTQ2+ community through Affirm Ministry Group.
 Linda Simmons conceived of and launched Writing the Rollercoaster – Stories of Riding Out the Pandemic in Burlington. She is proudly wearing her Jubilee pin. Sylvia McNicoll
Sylvia was a part of Writing the Rollercoaster – Stories of Riding Out the Pandemic in Burlington. She helped to record videos, offered free writing workshops, read submissions, and edited stories. Writing the Rollercoaster launched in September 2021 to the delight of the authors and readers. The book was also offered free of charge to the public at various locations throughout Burlington.
Raffick Rennie Mohamed
Raffick has been involved in the community for 50 years. He has had many roles at McMaster University and Humber College, was on the St. Mathews Committee for English for Immigrant Mothers, and has been involved in the Burlington Mundialization Committee, the Halton Islamic Association, HMC Connections, and the Syrian Refugee Sponsorship Committee.
Sam Muia
Sam is one of the most energetic and positive volunteers at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore. He is always smiling, enthusiastic and willing to help in any way he can. He is a strong presence in the warehouse and donation area when he is volunteering. Sam is always happy to chat with donors and let them know why their support is so key to our success, and he never steers away from heavy lifting.
Dr. C. Rajasekara Murthy
Dr. Murthy has made contributions, nationally as well as internationally, devoting over 35 years as a Senior Research Scientist at the Centre for Inland Waters and Professor at McMaster. One of his major achievements was the establishment of the Karnataka Environment Research Foundation, an NGO in Bangalore, India. Dr. Murthy represented Canada in several international Scientific and Technology transfer initiatives through UNESCO/UNDP/ UNEP, and the WHO. As Scientist Emeritus, he is still very active in mentoring, visiting professorships at major institutes and conducting international lectures.
Louise Paddock
Louise volunteers at her church and within apartment building’s community. She has created the Three C’s Program at her apartment, Crafts, Cooking, and Conversation, which has been a bright light for many residents. She also helps with grocery delivery, and bake sales, fundraising for local charities.
Brent Paszt
Brent has been involved in Rotary for many years and has chaired Ribfest numerous times, garnering lots of support for the community. A previous Board Member at the Carpenter Hospice, he chaired the Hike for Hospice. All this while raising two lovely daughters.
 Stephan Pichocki Stephan Pichocki
Stephan is a key figure in the Ukrainian community in Burlington. For 17 years he has been the President of the Tyrsa Ukrainian Dancing school, and a member of Holy Protection Parish Council. He is also a member of the Downtown Business Association. Since the war in Ukraine began, he has worked to support Ukrainians at home and abroad. He has organized a rally, cochaired a fundraiser concert, acted as an interpreter with HMC, collected monetary and physical donations, and helped refugees settle.
 Connie Price Connie Price
Connie is a prominent figure in Aldershot and advocate for seniors. Within her active involvement at St. Matthew’s Church, she has participated in a number of initiatives including food collection drives and providing free masks to the public. Connie works with Parks and Recreation to provide senior outdoor exercise areas around the city, has pushed for park upgrades, and works to ensure seniors in the community stay informed.
 Janice Skafel Mae Radford
Mae has had an extensive nursing career. She was as a volunteer manager at VON Hamilton and oversaw multiple community health support services. She also served on Burlington’s Advisory Committee on Violence Against Women, the Ontario Human Rights Commission, the Board at Joseph Brant Hospital, the Carpenter Hospice, and the Rotary Club. In Mae’s words… “As a nurse, my interest has been to care for people, to help them achieve comfort and relief from any pain, physical, mental, emotional or spiritual”
Shirley Robinson
Shirley has served so many in need in Burlington. She was an outstanding volunteer at the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, St. Patrick’s Conference, the Catholic Women’s League, and the Compassion Society. In her many roles, she has paid social visits and acted as a listening ear, delivered food, and run food drives.
Nancy Romic
Nancy manages Shifra Homes, supporting young pregnant woman and mothers. She has turned this wonderful home into a sanctuary for women and their families to come to rely on. A mama to many, her generosity and kindness, her ongoing commitment to these young women and their children’s futures is inspiring and deserves recognition.
Amy Schnurr
Amy is an environmental leader in our community as the Executive Director of Burlington Green. Amy is a shining example of community contribution and does so without a public spotlight. She has nominated so many other volunteers for awards over the years and her tremendous contributions are also worthy of recognition. She has also served as the chair of the Save General Brock Park Committee.
 Gordon Schottlander Gordon Schottlander
Gordon is a WW2 and D-Day veteran, who fought alongside Canadian soldiers. He has given his time to the Chamber of Commerce, the Burlington Planning Board, the YMCA Planning Committee, the Knights of Columbus, St. Gabriel’s Church, the Moon in June Race, and was founding chairman of the Burlington Family YMCA, and much more. He is a family man (he has 15 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren!) a businessman and has received the key to the city.
This one was special. With his certificate in hand Gord stood during an extended standing ovation. Proud, grateful this 104 year old soldier stood tall.
Rene Schuster
Rene is the founder and leader of the Burlington Dad group, which serves a pivotal role within the community of Burlington. Under Renes leadership the Burlington Dads have raised over $400,000 for local charities and families in need. Without Rene this couldn’t have been done, not to mention his community group has a following of over 5000 members now. Rene with the Burlington Dads hosts several events a year for the community of Burlington.
Dennis Scott
Dennis has dedicated his life to fostering inclusion within his community. As the Chair of the Halton Black History Awareness Society, he ensures that Black history is taught as Canadian history. He also supports the arts community through the Halton Freedom Festival. Through his dedication and perseverance, Dennis worked to ensure that Burlington was the first city to declare Emancipation Month in North America.
Elaine Scrivener
Elaine has served with the Burlington Volunteer Bureau, Burlington Downtown Business Association, Junior League of Hamilton-Burlington, Boards of Joseph Brant Hospital and Foundation, Burlington Art Centre, Burlington Downtown Partnership, Community Development Halton, and the Burlington Museums Foundation. Elaine recognizes the importance of her role as mentor, and sustainer and actively steward new volunteers into community engagement alongside her husband Bernard.
Lynda Simmons
Lynda Simmons conceived of and launched Writing the Rollercoaster – Stories of Riding Out the Pandemic in Burlington. Lynda worked to create writing videos, offered free writing workshops, read and edited submissions, and planned a launch event. The book launched in September 2021 to the delight of the authors and readers. Copies of the books were also offered free of charge to the public through the library system and businesses across the city.
Janice Skafel
Janice Skafel has been a tireless supporter of refugees assisting more than four families to come to Canada and settle here over more than twenty years. She worked within St. Luke’s Church to form the Burlington Downtown Refugee Alliance and has acted as chair. She also organizes Advocacy Breakfasts which brings in guest speakers. An invaluable leadership skill is her ability to encourage and enable others to bring their own unique talents and abilities and to contribute and lead.
Richard Slisinski
Richard has been involved with the Polish National Union of Canada for 27 years, having held positions as President, VP, Treasurer and more. He has never ended energy and devotion and is constantly fundraising for events. He has also volunteered with Halton Region Youth Soccer for 20 years as a coach and mentor, acting as a shoulder to lean on for many youths.
Murray Sutherland
Murray Sutherland has been the Colour Guard Commander with the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 60, in Burlington, and is now the current president. He has spent countless hours organizing Remembrance Day parades for the last 15 years and has acted as a mentor for many members. His write ups have been used in books, he has spoken at the US Department of Energy, and was invited by the International Energy Agency in Paris to present his take on the emerging energy scenario. He has also taught Oil, Geopolitics and the Middle East at McMaster University.
Rashid Husain Syed
Rashid is a global energy expert, having writing extensively and spoken around the world. He is a regular columnist in the Toronto Star, the Globe and Mail, Arab News, and other outlets, and has had his work featured in a book. He has chaired several global industry conderences and also occasionally teaches at McMaster University.
John Tait
John was President of the Burlington Rep Hockey Club, the Eagles from 1997 – 2020. John has consistently stressed the importance of not only skill development, but the personal growth of the athletes as people. During his time as President of the Eagles, he fostered the growth of the Gift of Giving Back, which has since raised millions of meals and hundreds of thousands of dollars in financial support for local beneficiaries such as the Salvation Army, The Burlington Food Bank, Food for Life, the Compassion Society, Halton Women’s Shelter, the Carpenter Hospice and the ROCK.
Joseph Tassoni
Joseph is a leading member of the downtown Burlington community and innovative fashion designer. All of his product in locally and his nominator can be quoted as saying “I have seen him late at night cutting and sewing away!”. He supports the Joseph Brant Hospital Foundation, the Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation, and the Halton Women’s Place. Joseph is a great resource for other businesses owners, always encouraging and supporting them.
 David Vandenberg David Vandenberg
David has served in volunteer leadership positions within over 10 organizations and helped raise over $350,000 for charities and non-profits. Recently, he helped lead the meal program at Wellington Square. He now is an Advisor for Canadian Tire Jumpstart where he manages the builds of their national inclusive play projects.
Peter John VanDyk
Peter is an incredible ambassador for Burlington, philanthropically and in the business community. He volunteers his time with the Sound of Music Festival, the Burlington Holiday Market, the Taste of Burlington, the YWCA Hamilton, and many more. No matter how busy he is, he always seems to find ways to support other businesses & include those left on the sidelines.
Roy Voorberg
Roy has been an Auxiliary Constable with Halton Regional Police for the past 25 years. Each year he has volunteered hundreds of hours assisting sworn officers on patrol, doing RIDE stop checks, at large scale community events like Sound of Music or Ribfest, managing traffic at road races, doing searches for lost individuals, canvassing for evidence, home safety evaluations for the public and a myriad of other community-safety oriented tasks. He has mentored dozens of new Auxiliary Constables over that time and has been a Sergeant for much of the last decade providing administrative support, training and moral & morale support for those reporting to him. Whenever there’s an issue, he’s the pillar we’ve turned to.
Sheila Waldron
Sheila is a volunteer with Crafts, Cooking, and Conversation. She has also given her time to arrange theatre visits for members of the group, promoted reading and walking, and helped out in the community garden. She remains a regular volunteer at Joseph Brant Hospital.
Dean Walker
Dean Walker has made immeasurable contributions to a more inclusive Canada, especially for Deaf Canadians. Dean founded the Burlington Association of the Deaf and has been an advocate and expert in equity and access. He has contributed to policy in provincial legislation and worked to accommodate deaf individuals in the justice system. He has volunteered with the Ontario Association of the Deaf, for 25 years, acting as Executive Director for 3 years. He has also coached the 1981 Ontario Deaf Olympics basketball team and was Head Coach for the Deaf Canada baseball team in the 2000 World Tournament.
George Ward
George is a longtime resident of Burlington and has been active as a volunteer in many causes throughout the years, especially in politics. George believes in getting involved w
 By Pepper Parr
July 22nd, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The event was originally going to be held in Civic Square – extreme heat killed that idea – so it was held at the Art Gallery
73 citizens were going to be recognized for their contribution to making Burlington what it is – they were publicly recognized by Karina Gould, Burlington’s Member of Parliament and a member of Cabinet along with Mayor Marianne Meed Ward.
 Names were announce and a 150 word – max – description was read and the person came forward.
The Gazette has been covering the city for more than ten – we knew many of the recipients – but there were many we did not know.
And some of the things they did were remarkable – all simple acts, done with little in the way of fanfare.
Some paused before they stepped up to the platform and did an ever so slight bow then stepped in between the Mayor and the MP. Mayor Meed Ward presented the certificate which was bound in a vert attractive leather case.
Along with the Certificate was a pin signifying that the person was recognized as one recognized in the Queen’s 70 Jubilee.
MP Gould urged people to wear their pins.
The recipient are:
Robert Ankrett
Bob is a key volunteer at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 60, organizing many events and focusing what the Legion stands for. Some of Bob’s milestones at the Legion include memorializing 28 WW2 veterans, arranging anniversary ceremonies including Remembrance Day, bringing the veteran banner program to the city, and curating memorabilia for the Legion Museum.
Leslie Bell
Les served as the president of the Burlington Soccer League for almost 30 years, and Tournament Director of the Ken Bradwell Soccer Tournament for 4 years. He has also been running a series of trivia quizzes called “Let’s Get Quizzical!” to raise funds for Joseph Brant Hospital, Oakville Trafalgar Hospital and Juravinski Cancer Centre. Les is a great friend and naturally gifted spokesman and compere which was recognized during his work life at RBC.
Robert Bennett
Robert has acted as the managing director of the Burlington Teen Tour Band for over 40 years. Robert has provided outstanding leadership, direction, friendship and sometimes comfort to the members of the band. He always provides positive encouragement to the legions of youth who have passed through the band program.
Catharine Benzie
Catherine is a dedicated volunteer at the Burlington Public Library. Catharine has an inclusive and approachable leadership style and acts as the Chair of the Board. She has worked to make the library safe and welcoming for everyone and has contributed to the development of two BPL strategic plans. Catharine also volunteers at Pineland Public School, and makes Burlington a better place to live, play, and work.
Raj Beri
Raj had a distinguished career as a Hydrographic Surveyor and for 37 years has been the President of Arya Samaj Burlington. Under his leadership, Raj has facilitated donations to women’s shelters, homeless shelters, the Joseph Brant Hospital, the Carpenter Hospice, and food banks. He also organized church services and cultural and social events for the community to enjoy. He always promotes inclusiveness and acceptance.
Lesline Bess
Lesline is a retired nurse and has given her time to St. Christopher’s Anglican Church for many years. She tends their gardens, and packages donation barrels to send to St. Vincent for those in need.
Hilda Binns
Hilda is a decorated athlete, having medaled at multiple Paralympic and Parapan American games. She also acted as an ambassador for Canada at the 2012 Paralympics. Hilda was a founding member of the Ontario Wheelchair Sports Association and for several years Hilda was national membership conveyor for the Canadian Wheelchair Sports Association. Hilda was successful in having Hamilton put in corner curb ramps and having Burlington lower walk signal buttons. She taught children about disabilities in schools, bringing her 58 medals for them to try on! She also volunteered at the Grand River Correctional Centre for Women and as a wellness checker for the community.
Marianne Bromley
Marianne has been a leader in Girl Guides for over 35 years. In that time, she led all the different age groups: Sparks, Brownies, Guides, Pathfinders and Rangers. This is a commitment from the heart as she was involved with Girl Guides as a youth and received the highest award in Guiding, the Canada Cord. She has travelled with different groups to The Chalet in Switzerland, Pax Lodge in London, Netherurd House in Scotland and several national camps in Canada.
Ken Brooks
Ken was one of the founding members of Friends of Freeman Station in 2011 and continues to be one of its most dedicated and hardworking volunteers. In the past year Ken has spent hundreds of hours helping refurbish a 1929 CPR caboose with his hands on carpentry skill while also leading a crew of other volunteers. This valuable artifact would not be available to the citizens of Burlington and the surrounding area without Ken’s amazing contribution.
Dorothy Brownhill
Dorothy has volunteered for over 25 years at St. Christopher’s Anglican Church, and has volunteered for all her life. Her current project is creating snack packs for those experiencing housing homelessness in Hamilton’s Gore Park. She and her group support around 300 people every single weekend.
 Rick Burgess Rick Burgess
Rick has a strong volunteer presence in our community. He has generously given his time to the Burlington Community Foundation, the Halton Police Board, the Chamber of Commerce, Tansley Woods, John T. Tuck Public School, the Burlington Holiday Market, Creative Burlington, the Burlington Museum Foundation, and many more. He is a committed and dedicated resident of Burlington and has received a number of awards for his contributions including a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.
Stuart Carrothers
For the past decade, Stuart has cared for some trees on the property of a public school that back on to his yard. He will prune the trees, water them, and repair any damage, all out of his own pocket. He says he does this as the school board may not have the resources and that it is good to care for and plant trees whose shade you do not expect to always sit. His son who nominated him shared that “I know it’s a small thing but sometimes the smallest things take up the most space in your heart”.
Ian Chan
Ian is the co-owner of Code Ninjas Burlington. Recently, he has been volunteering on the Six Nations Reserve to help older students and teachers learn how to code, so they can then teach younger grades in a culturally appropriate way. When the Mohawk language teacher was set to retire, Ian quickly found a way to integrate Mohawk into the coding curriculum. Ian also set up “teacher sessions” within Halton to teach basic coding to educators and started a program at Code Ninjas to match children living in poverty with community sponsors so that they can have the opportunity to learn.
Gabriela Covaci
Gabriela has worked to support newcomers to Canada since arriving from Romania in 2003. Gabriela is an amazing role model and mentor for anyone that came in touch with her, has been an active volunteer member in the community. She has founded a non-profit, mentored young women transitioning into technical fields, been an ambassador in the Halton for All Campaign, chaired the Halton Region Newcomer Strategy Project, fundraised for women in transitional housing, and authored books. She did not stop during the pandemic and pivoted to help support people.
Rick Craven
A former city and regional councillor, Rick is a strong advocate for Aldershot. Rick founded the Aldershot Community Council, as well as Partnering Aldershot and the Partnering Aldershot Newsletter. He worked to form the Aldershot BIA, to help drive local business improvement. He has inspiried others by being the initiator of so many projects, a community builder, energizer of the team, preserver of the history, a mentor to many, and true champion of the cause
Craven took Zoom; there wasn’t a chance that he would stand with the Mayor and receive his certificate
John D’Addario
John has been a member and leader of the Knights of Columbus service club for many years and seems to have boundless energy to serve. He is very much an “idea” man and comes up with all sorts of ways of fundraising for the community. Thank you for your years of generosity and teamwork, John.
Maria DiDanieli
Maria represents our health care industry at its best. Through her work at the Burlington Family Health Team, she serves the community selflessly. Her “people-person” nature shines through in in the amount of work she is doing to impacting people’s lives in a positive way.
Mary Dilly
Mary has a true compassionate spirit. She helps women leaving the Halton Women’s Place resettle with donated furniture that she collects. She has started a business helping seniors downsize and move into seniors’ residences around town. Mary helps to run a sit-down Christmas dinner for the community and has also fostered 13 service dogs!
That 13th dog took part in the presentation – didn’t bark
John Doma
John was appointed by the Slovenian Ambassador as Honorary Counsel for the Republic of Slovenia. John continues to wear this voluntary hat with honour, passion, commitment and respect. His main driving forces are to build bridges and collaborative sustainable relationships between the two countries. John is also the President of the Canadian Slovenian Chamber of Commerce and volunteers at free tax clinics, sport coaching, and supporting startup businesses.
Marilyn Fish
Marilyn has always taken care of the community. Always an advocate for safety, she had the speed reduced on the straightaway of her street and the bus stop changed to her front yard to see the children safely off to school. She was involved as a leader in Girl Guides, dragon boating, and is now involved in the Art Gallery of Burlington Weaver’s Guild, acting as the treasurer.
 A proud daughter taking a picture of her father Family members would walk to the stage behind the parent that was being recognized and take pictures
Leanne Forsyth
Leanne is a survivor of human trafficking and now an advocate for supporting survivors and raising awareness. Her strength and resiliency shine through in everything she does.
Roki Fukuzawa
Roki volunteers her time with the local Halton Breastfeeding Connection program which provides free mother to mother telephone support for breastfeeding mothers. This is very impactful to the new mothers as having support from a recent breastfeeding mother provides comfort that someone has gone through all the ups and downs of breastfeeding and can offer tricks and suggestions when problems arise. As Roki is fluent in three languages (English, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese) she is usually paired with new mothers who do not speak English or would prefer to have support in their mother tongue.
Lisa Garland
Lisa brings value to Home Suite Hope. Lisa is the Board Treasurer and has supported individuals as they move through the program. She is also involved with the gymnastics club and leads finance related Life Skills Modules and Income Tax sessions. Lisa has fulfilled her commitment to HSH and is now joining the Joseph Brant Hospital board.
Donna Gillies-Marson
Donna has been giving her time, talents and heart to many over the years. She recently retired as a teacher for Blind and low-vision individuals. She has served with the Children’s Aid Foundation of Halton, Burlington Meals on Wheels, and has helped to increase awareness for stem cell donations when her close friend’s lost their daughter to cancer.
Pat Gilmore
Pat began a unique initiative during COVID called Meals of Hope, which now runs 5 shifts out of Port Nelson United Church. They supported Wellington Square and Gore Park Community Outreach Program. She is an active participant in a Winter Clothing Drive and works to stock Port Nelson’s lending library with books.
 Marion Goard Marion Goard
Marion co-founded 100 Women Who Care Burlington, a philanthropic giving circle that supports a variety of charities and initiatives that serve the Burlington Community. The group has raised a collective total of over $192,000 for over 30 charities.
Eunice Gorman
Eunice makes time to help anyone in the community. She assists the community by removing garbage and keeping the streets clean and helps seniors stay active.
Barb Guilfoyle
Barb serves on the Dare to be You team as well as at Halton Women’s Place. Her kind and compassionate spirit to always lend a helping hand is unwavering. She never seeks recognition and has consistently and generously volunteered her time with numerous community organizations.
Darlene Halchuk
Darlene is the Community Coordinator for Special Olympics Burlington who exemplifies leadership and inclusion in the community. She is responsible for the operation of 8 Winter Sports and 5 Summer Sports involving over 200 athletes. During the pandemic Darlene worked hard to ensure our athletes stayed connected with each other and were supported. Darlene works hard to reduce barriers to participation and is always encouraging athletes, coaches and parents to live their best lives.
 Ancilla Ho-Young with her certificate Ancilla Ho-Young
Ancilla worked as a nurse and provided compassionate and non-judgmental care. She is heavily involved in the community on the Halton Equity and Diversity Roundtable, she leads the Burlington Caribbean Connection, was a part of the Burlington Inclusivity Advisory Committee, and is a member of the Board of Community Development Halton and North Burlington Baptist Church. Ancilla has been instrumental in sharing Caribbean culture with our community.
Beverly Jacobs
Beverly has volunteered at the Carpenter Hospice, the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, and the Juravinski Centre. She has spent 30 years as a peer counsellor for breast cancer patients and was also on the board of directors for the Breast Cancer Network of Canada. Beverly also found time to volunteer at Freeman Station and in local and provincial politics.
Bozena Jokel
Bozena is very involved with the Polish National Union of Canada, volunteering her expertise as a CPA to help with accounting, taxes, grant applications, and budgeting. She was instrumental to ensuring that the Polish Centre in Burlington was able to make it through the pandemic, as well as a dedicated leader on the board and hardworking secretary.
Imran Kamal
Imran is an active community volunteer and organizer. He established Hamilton Lawyers Feed the Hungry, volunteers at a Men’s Live-In Addition Treatment Centre, serves on the Mission Services of Hamilton, the AIDS Network, the Burlington Housing Strategy Working Group, and numerous other organizations. Through his work, he is a strong advocate for the LGBTQ2+ community and Indigenous child welfare.
 Ed Keenleyside. with Alan Harrington to his right and his wife on his left. Ed Keenleyside
Ed is a dedicated Burlington community member, giving his time to Scouts Canada, the Royal Botanical Gardens, the Legion, the Bruce Trail Association, the Historical Society, the Friends of Freeman Station, the Burlington Teen Tour Band, and more. He is committed to preserving Burlington’s history and played a role in repairing and recognizing the Burlington Cenotaph on its 100th anniversary.
Mikael Kingo
Mikael is a young leader, actively supporting the hockey community. He raises funds and supports hockey players with new equipment, “Day on the Ice “events with NHL players, scholarships, and mentorship opportunities. He also volunteers at local hospitals and collects donation items for patients. He is a true role model in our community.
Joseph Daniel Lauzon
Dan has proudly served our country with the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Battalions of the Royal Canadian Regiment and also with the Airborne Regiment. He has served in the Gulf War as well as in Somalia. Now retired, he volunteers with the Royal Canadian Legion Brach 60. Dan has held positions as the Colour Guard Commander, the Veteran’s Affairs Officer, and is now the Vice President.
The balance of the recipient are identified in part 2
 The room was packed with those being recognized and those who had nominated and family members.
 By Pepper Parr
July 22, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Lisa Kearns Councillor for ward 2 holds regular ward level meetings.
It is something she has always done and does better than anyone else.
I wasn’t able to attend the meeting she held earlier this week but her very able assistant was kind enough to send mt the presentation Lisa was working from – Lisa does intense presentations.
As I was flipping through the pages, which weren’t number, one page slipped out of my hand – picked it up and saw numbers that stunned me.
The graphic Kearns presented to her ward was related to a report that came to Council July 5th – my transcribing service didn’t get everything and I was planning on getting back to it.
It was a Receive and File report that stunned all the Councillors.
The graphic, set out below, showed where the high rise towers would be in the Burlington MTSA, an area that surrounds the Burlington GO station area where a significant amount of height was expected.
 Look very carefully at all those 45 numbers. Are these going to be residential towers or office towers? If residential – is this what Burlington is going to become? Look carefully, there are six towers either side of the GO tracks – all are showing 45 storeys.
Where did that come from?
When 30 storeys was mentioned back in 2028, for that Burlington GO station area a lot of eyebrows were raised. Was that necessary – the city has to undergo intensification but 30 was seen as a bit much.
In an interview Kearns said she, along with the rest of Council were “blind sided” which is hard to accept – Councillors get these reports 10 days before they are presented publicly.
“What changed” asked Kearns?
 Index for the 2028 graphic In 2018 the public saw the graphic above, which is significantly different than the graphic council debated last week.
While the report was just a Receive and File Kearns did move a motion that required the:
Direct the Director of Community Planning to re-examine the Burlington GO Central Precinct with respect to requirements related to achieving maximum height permissions on a given site, alongside the provision of community amenities, affordable housing and community facilities commensurate with those maximum height permissions and the supporting policies and policy directions.
Kearns was not able to say when the report would come back to Council; not likely before the election in October.
Kearns was adamant that whatever gets built it “cannot change the quality of life for the people who live in the city.”
This is an issue that needs more attention.
Kearns drew attention to the staff members:
Alison Enns, Manager of Policy and Community,
Jenna Puletto, Coordinator of Community Initiatives
Samantha Romlewski, Senior Planner, Community Initiatives
Karyn Poad,Senior Planner
Rebecca Lau, Planner – Community Initiatives
leaving the clear impression with me that she wanted this group to be reined in and telling council much more than they are hearing at this point.
Kearns who advised the public that she had contracted Covid19 and while the symptoms are gone it “takes longer than you expect to recover completely.
“The virus wrecks havoc on your body, I’m still dealing with small issues.”
By Pepper Parr
July 22nd, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Revised: we erred; there were 73 recipients if the Jubilee awards
 Forty citizens will be wearing a pin like this today. Congratulate them when you see them. Forty citizens were given pins and a document that recognized and celebrated their community service achievements during a lengthy ceremony last night at the Art Gallery.
It was anything but boring as Minister Gould read out the names and the person being recognized came forward to be given their certificate.
One had to leave the event feeling just plain good about the people who were recognized and appreciate how remarkable Burlington is.
We will have the list of names and publish them later in the day.
 By Staff
July 23, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington Student Theatre Performing Arts Camp Presents: JEKYLL AND HYDE
Music by Frank Wildhorn, Book by Leslie Bricusse
 A gripping tale of a brilliant mind gone awry, featuring a thrilling score of pop-rock hits, Jekyll & Hyde is a 1990 musical loosely based on the well-known classic Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson.
The epic struggle between good and evil comes to life on stage in this musical phenomenon. An evocative tale of what appears to be two men – one, a doctor and the other, a madman – with a score that has mesmerized audiences the world over.
This is the occasion to see upfront and personal what the city has in the way of young people who may at some point in their lives become world class performers.
Every actor or actress started somewhere in a small town on a high school stage or on the main stage of the local theatre. What Burlington has produces can be seen on the 23rd – two performances.
Dates & Times
Thu Jul 28, 2022 at 11am
Thu Jul 28, 2022 at 2:30pm
Venue: Main Theatre
 The Main Stage – Burlington Performing Arts Centre Ticket Prices
Regular: $26 (All-in)
Youth (18 and under): $20 (All-in)
Group of 10 or More (Visit or call the Box Office at 905.681.6000)
Group: $18 (All-in)
Early Bird Pricing (until Jul 19, 2022):
Regular: $23 (All-in)
Youth (18 and under): $18 (All-in)
 By Staff
July 22nd, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Published with permission from Plan B.
It’s the Wizard of the OLT (Ontario Land Tribunal) that we’re off to see though, and not of OZ.
 It’s the Wizard of the OLT (Ontario Land Tribunal) that we’re off to see though, and not of OZ. Citizens’ PLAN B just recently received notice from the OLT that a Case Management Conference is scheduled for all-day August 26th to review Vrancor’s Appeal of the City’s PL-24-22 decision to Refuse their Application to redevelop the Waterfront Hotel property. The link to the OLT’s webpage is: https://jus-olt-prod.powerappsportals.com/en/e-status/details/?id=f473e8b7-f8dd-ec11-bb3c-000d3af399eb
This meeting effectively provides the OLT with each side’s arguments, so that a determination can be made to resolve the dispute, send it to mediation between the parties or schedule a final hearing. Citizens’ PLAN B plans to participate in this Appeal, but the proceedings are open to you, the public, to audit.
The City and its’ lawyers are confident that they have a compelling case and a winning strategy,
We were all thrown a curveball when Donna Hinde of The Planning Partnership, who facilitated and unreservedly published the Waterfront Hotel Planning Study report on March 26rth, 2022, claimed 9 days later on April 4th (1 day prior to the report being reviewed by the City for approval) that City planners had unduly influenced her to limit height to 22 storeys. She went on to state that The Planning Partnership could not professionally support the report and would not defend it at the OLT. Mark Simeoni, Director, Community Planning refuted her claim & asked for evidence to support it, but to date has received none.
Very peculiar, don’t you think?
We have been quiet of late with our updates to you, but very active in trying to convince anyone who would listen to us at City Hall to compel The Planning Partnership to re-issue the report with whatever measures they require for it to be fully independent. Progress on this front has, unfortunately, been limited to date.
We believe that there may well be a time soon for you, our followers and supporters, to join in and have your voices heard on the Waterfront Hotel redevelopment Appeal at the OLT, and at all levels of government. Please share this article with friends of Burlington, and stay tuned!
By Staff
July 21st, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Metrolinx is listening to comments about crowding on TFC match days – on platforms, trains and even at the BMO Field gates.
The Lakeshore West schedule will be modified before the TFC game on Saturday, July 23.
 Soccer fans are much more passionate than hockey fans – even basket ball fans. As for baseball fans – do they every get excited. Fans and other travellers on the Lakeshore East and West Lines will see some changes, designed to give everyone more time to board their trains and reduce crowing at the stadium gates for those taking the last trains before kick-off.
These scheduling changes will be in place around the TFC game on Saturday, July 23.
Lakeshore West:
All westbound trips from Union Station from 5:15 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. will depart five minutes earlier than regularly scheduled.
The 4:13 p.m., 5:13 p.m. and 6:13 p.m. eastbound trips from West Harbour GO will depart ten minutes later, at 4:23 p.m., 5:23 p.m. and 6:23 p.m. and arrive at Exhibition GO and Union Station 15 minutes later than regularly scheduled.
The 4:55 p.m., 5:55 p.m., and 6:55 p.m. trips from Aldershot GO will depart ten minutes later, at 5:05 p.m., 6:05 p.m. and 7:05 p.m. and arrive at Exhibition GO and Union Station 15 minutes later than regularly scheduled.
During these adjustments, eastbound trains will also make longer than normal scheduled stops at the most popular stations on the Lakeshore West Line to provide customers extra time to board their trains.
The last two trips before TFC’s kickoff will arrive at 6:36 p.m. and 7:06 p.m.
In a small break from routine, most pre-game westbound trains will arrive on the south platform at Exhibition Station. Post-game trains will depart from both platforms as usual, so make sure to check departure boards before you head to the platform.
Fans heading through the tunnel to Liberty Village after the game will no longer have to turn left and up the stairs that lead to the platform. The tunnel has been extended, so people heading to Liberty Village can go straight and up the newly opened stairs, making it easy to get to Atlantic Avenue.
People that don’t have PRESTO cards and want to avoid line-ups at station ticket vending machines can buy GO e-tickets in advance online or take advantage of one of the GO Transit Weekend Pass options. E-tickets should be activated five minutes before boarding.
 By Pepper Parr
July 21st, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
A heat warning has been issued by Halton Region beginning July 22, 2022.
When a heat warning is issued by Halton Region, residents can stay cool at all open Burlington Public Library branches.
Heat warnings are issued by Halton Region when temperatures are expected to be at least 31°C and overnight temperatures are above 20°C for at least three days or humidex is at least 40 for at least two days.
 There are spaces that can be set up for sports that would involve seniors. There are those that would play the game and those that would watch. We are seeing these media notices on a regular basis.
They look like they are going to be part of the new normal.
Where and who is doing the longer term thinking about how the city is going to meet the needs of the seniors?
This current weather is not going to stop – and this city has seniors who are not able to live decent lives – better to say existences.
Everyone is re-thinking their business model.
The city is no different.
Last year during the heat waves the Aldershot Seniors Group pressed the city to provide cool places where people could meet. There was some space made available at Central but for just a few hours.
A flood of emails to city councillors brought about the decision to open up the libraries as cooling centers. That was a good start – but a start is not enough.
There is space that can be used.
The city will say that there is no staff – and there is no staff – but if the city is ready to hire ten additional bylaw enforcement officers – then it had better get ready to hire just as many staff to provide what are really essential’s of life to people who deserve at least that much.
 What can the Parks and Recreation people come up with in the way of program ideas?
The public meeting room at the Mainway centre is large enough to set up at least two – maybe three pickle ball courts.
There are a number of groups that would help with putting on some program for younger kids – and for parents.
It is going to take some ingenuity, some creativity and a willingness to look for ways to make it possible for people to have ways to cope with this heat.
This is something we will come back to in the weeks and months ahead.
Salt with Pepper is the musings, reflections and opinions of the publisher of the Burlington Gazette, an online newspaper that was formed in 2010 and is a member of the National Newsmedia Council.
By Pepper Parr
July 21st, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
No one knew anything about Eden Wood.
There was nothing on social media; some thought she was a stand in candidate in place to pull votes away from Shawna Stolte the incumbent candidate for the ward 4 seat.
 Eden Wood, candidate for the ward 4 council seat Turns out Eden Wood is very real, a mother of a daughter and a son who play soccer.
Mom has that clean cut Ivy League look to her. She is involved in police volunteer groups: doing victim support and public safety committee work.
She Has worked in the private sector with Fisher & Ludlow, a Nucor company that makes industrial grating. She has taken community college level courses at Sheridan focused on accounting and business administration.
Wood was the President of the Burlington Crime Prevention Committee that “tackled issues on vandalism and crime prevention by recognizing the importance of homeowners landscape and design. We also worked with the Victim Assistance Volunteer Program, assisted by the Burlington O.P.P.
She has been the Apprentice Supervisor with the Hamilton S.P.C.A., building the empathy of youth. She has volunteered with Burlington Rotary at Canada’s Largest Ribfest. She worked for Average Joe Sports as a volleyball convener, as well as played volleyball through B.A.S.L and A.C.R.A.
She also played Softball and Ultimate Frisbee. Her children are members of the Burlington Soccer Club, and use many of the wonderful amenities Burlington has to offer.
While President of the Burlington Crime Prevention Committee she became a member of the Citizen Police Academy through Halton Regional Police Service, where good governance and transparency are front and centre.
She received the award for Active Citizenship from Mohawk College, where she attended the Police Foundations program.
Her web site is up and running.
Don’t know much about her views on the significant issues city council faces nor what her core values are – she does place a lot of emphasis on family and neighbourhood.
By Kimberly Calderbank
July 21st, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Lifted from the Kimberly Calderbank LinkedIn page
Everyone has an opinion.
BUT, why let the opinions of others deny you a life that will make history?
What are YOU holding back on because you are afraid of what other people will think, say, react?
Do you know how often I hear people say, “But what about…?” WHO CARES!
I am 100 percent guilty of always wanting to people please, always wanting to be sure I have taken everyone’s opinions and thoughts into consideration.
The other day, a gentleman said to me “…it’s been a while… what are you doing with your life…?”
 WHOA… at that moment I felt small… I felt I had been playing small… he had expected a BIG answer, and I didn’t have one. His opinion of me shifted, and that mattered…all those other opinions had held me back, but this one pushed me forward.
For the past 4 years, I have been building quietly a plan, working on my purpose, and pulling together what I feel will be my legacy.
TODAY I acted on it. I brought in my first investor. My first believer in my plan if you will.
Mark it down, TODAY is the day that I stopped letting the opinions of others stop me, I let the positive in, and I put my first step forward in a life that WILL MAKE HISTORY (big and lofty, but just watch me).
By Staff
July 20th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
With inflation at an 8.1 % increase over last month and a high that has not been seen since 1983, we thought you would be interested in what is happening to the price of housing.
 The housing market was blazing for a period of time. Is there a correction taking place? ReMax Canada released its 2022 Housing Affordability Report – a nationwide analysis of local market activity and housing affordability trends for the first half of 2022 – including Ontario, Western Canada and Atlantic Canada.
The report revealed that 68 per cent of Canadians are willing to make at least one sacrifice to buy a home they can afford, with the most common concession being relocation (64 per cent)– a trend that continues to reign as a primary influence in local housing markets across the country, say RE/MAX brokers.
Some of the smaller regions outside of Toronto/GTA have experienced some of the highest year-over-year price increases in the first half of 2022, due to rising demand and limited supply –
Windsor, ON (+24.42%),
Barrie, ON (+24.40%),
Sudbury, ON (+23.85% ),
London, ON (+23.26%),
Hamilton, ON (+22.35%),
Thunder Bay, ON (+17.58%),
Kingston, ON (+20.83%),
Ottawa, ON (+11.46%).
In Kitchener/Waterloo, ON, the increase was more modest at +4.29% year-over-year from $759,115 in 2021 to $791,674 in 2022.
 By Staff
July 20th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
City of Burlington’s website and some web applications temporarily unavailable for scheduled maintenance July 21 from 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
During the temporary shutdown, the following websites and applications will not be available:
- burlington.ca
- burlingtontransit.ca
- burlington.ca/calendar
- haltoncourtservices.ca
- Online forms for:
- Service Requests
- Parking ticket payment
- Parking permit renewal
- Parking exemption request
- New dog licenses
- Renew dog licenses
- Tax assessment lookup
- Business license renewal
- Senior property tax rebates application
- Property information requests
- Marriage licenses
- My festival and events applications
The following City of Burlington web applications will not be impacted:
The shutdown of a system as large as that of a municipality is always tricky business. Particularly at a time when the Information Technology people are working on the introduction of a new look and a new layout of much of the city web site.
That’s what Rogers was doing when its business fell apart a week or so ago.
Wish our people well.
By Staff
July 20th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The Arkells – that band from that city on the other side of the lake has gone and gotten themselves into the Canadian Walk of Fame.
Not enough that they have scooped up five Junos and now this.
This time they are being recognized and given the Allan Slaight Music Impact Honour in recognition of their positive impact on others and contributions to the community.
 In no specific order: Max Kerman, Mike DeAngelis, Nick Dika, Tim Oxford and Anthony Carone Not too shabby for the likes of Max Kerman, Mike DeAngelis, Nick Dika, Tim Oxford and Anthony Carone who have had a banner year since last August’s three once-in-a-return-from-a-pandemic history making nights that reopened the live music business at Toronto’s Budweiser Stage.
Between the release of their latest chart-topping album, Blink Once and their forthcoming album, Blink Twice, Arkells headlined the 108th Grey Cup Halftime Show in December 2021, performed at the 2022 JUNO Awards (while winning Group of the Year for the 5th time), and made their mark in Hamilton with the return of their hometown summer festival event “The Rally,” of one of the biggest headline shows in the country.
 Boys in a box car – The 2022 edition of “The Rally” concert at Tim Hortons Field broke attendance records at the stadium, with $1 from every ticket sold benefiting Indwell, a local organization that builds and maintains affordable and geared-to-income housing in Hamilton.
“The Rally” has become a highly anticipated and celebrated community event, known to be more than just a concert. This year’s event included a special addition – the opening of the city’s brand new “The Rally Court” – a dazzling refurbished basketball court in Hamilton’s Ward 3 neighbourhood. Replete with brand new vibrant surfacing, glass backboards, bleachers and updated lighting, the court was spearheaded by the band, The City of Hamilton, and funded by Arkells’ friends in the basketball community: The Nick Nurse Foundation, The Foxcroft Family, Superfan Nav Bhatia, and Canada Basketball.
Throughout the pandemic, many became familiar with Arkells’ “Flatten The Curve” music class, a headline grabbing, free daily music lesson that acted as a reliable outlet for fans all over the world, and helped raise $50,000 for the Food Band of Canada. The FTC Music Class simultaneously bolstered support, both financial and in kind for music programs in Southern Ontario. Their covid relief efforts raised over $15,000 to contribute to virtual programming updates for Hamilton’s YMCA, and their song “All Roads,” served as the soundtrack to #TogetherAgain, a national vaccine awareness PSA to combat vaccine hesitancy during the height of the pandemic.
Randy Lennox speaking for the Canada’s Walk of Fame board of directors said the “Arkells have become one of Canada’s most successful and beloved rock groups.
“When I think of Arkells, I think of unity, community, heart and sheer talent,” said Gary Slaight, President and CEO, The Slaight Family Foundation. ”
They lead with compassion and integrity and epitomize the values that my late father Allan had in mind for this special honour. They are an inspiration and deserving of this recognition.”
Hailed by The Globe and Mail as “the right kind of band for this decade,” Arkells are widely considered one of the most passionate, exuberant and in-demand live bands on the scene today. As radio mainstays, sports-sync shoe-ins and curious students of culture, Arkells have remained ever present – building awareness and personal community experiences around their live shows and new music at every turn. Arkells continue to release and tease new music in support of their chart-topping BLINK ONCE & hotly anticipated BLINK TWICE companion albums, while touring internationally.
Links:
@arkellsmusic
@CWOFame
web site: http://www.arkellsmusic.com/
By Pepper Parr
July 20th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
When Anita Cassidy, Executive Director, is presenting to Council, she finds herself speaking very quickly on issues that are important.
The agenda for any one day is often full and she seems to feel that she isn’t going to be given the time she needs.
Unfortunate because the picture she paints isn’t always rosy.
 Anita Cassidy, Executive Director, Economic Development Corporation She said earlier this month that “…we had a significant shift in our economic environment. In that time that we had it on pause, we had to reflect the realities of COVID-19 and look at the potential impacts. We also had the shift of the UGC to Burlington GO MTSA.”
The Economic Development Corporation, in its report to Council set out the background that they expdct the city’s economy to build upon.
They maintain the MTSAs provide the potential to create complete communities, expand the tax base, and provide a destination for employment growth for future generations. The MTSA developments will increase transit usage and help to make Burlington a destination while lowering carbon emissions. Burlington Economic Development has been working with the City of Burlington to develop an employment vision for the MTSAs and an implementation plan that positions us to expand our tax base through employment attraction and branding opportunities, as well as ensuring we continue to retain key industrial employers and other employment uses associated with the MTSAs.
This economic vision for the three MTSAs has been undertaken through the GO Investment Corridor Project.
“So what did that mean for unemployment attraction and retention perspective? Cassidy added: “We also wanted to make sure that we addressed any market and policy changes; as I mentioned, there were a number of policy changes in the background, ROPA 48 and 49 is coming down, we had the provincially significant employment zones for the province: a lot of policy changes to take into effect here.
“One of the key pieces of research we did was on taking into account the impacts of COVID on the office and retail environment, and what could that look like? The industrial environment for COVID, as I mentioned to counsel before, largely hasn’t shifted, as that is an in person activity. We’ve seen our industrial getting stronger through COVID. So we focused in on office and the retail.
“We had stakeholder workshops to validate those findings and hear from our developers and our businesses and our real estate, commercial brokers, what has changed over the last two years.
“Our assumptions were right here what we need to integrate in here.
“We had a subcommittee of our board reinstated with external experts to provide their expertise and then we integrated those back into the six guiding principles and the overall vision that we developed.
“There was nothing surprising from the SWOT analysis perspective. It’s everything that we’re seeing in the market already.
“We’re seeing that not unexpected displacement of existing businesses. And what we want to see is that the right kinds of businesses are retained There were examples of business displacement that have happened already over the last couple of years. We had one shop go to Mexico. They were a great employer – 150 high tech industrial jobs that ended moving operations to Mexico; part of that was they couldn’t secure a long term lease, and we don’t have sufficient employment lands to replace employers like that.
“We’ve gone from 27 hectares of shovel ready land back in 2015 to down to 14 now; that’s less than half. So this is a really a key focus area. We need to make sure that we can integrate these existing businesses as well as attracting new businesses to the MTSA developments – that is really going to be critical to achieving both job growth and that great split of tax base where we have commercial and industrial taxes to help keep our residential costs low as well.
“Our Go investment corridor vision has six guiding principles.
 “To effectively develop each MTSA into a complete community that has a mix of residential employment, institutional and recreational uses a clear mission statement and understood and agreed upon objectives are in place.
 “When we started this project, back in 2017, we took a pretty narrow economic development lens. And as we sat down with stakeholders, and we did workshops with people, we realized that the future of work at these GO stations is going to be very different from the type of employment development we’ve had in the past.
“Workers of the future do not want to work at isolated employer locations where they have to get in their car to do everything and they don’t have those communities around them. That’s what’s going to be the attractors to those MTSA locations – it’s going to be like a mini downtime environment where they’re going to be able to have all of those facilities in one spot while also being able to get on the go train and access those communities and to attend meetings in downtown as well.
“Our second guiding principle is to focus on planning for future services and infrastructure and secure sustainable development which means looking at integrating the right kind of infrastructure but also understanding in advance what the infrastructure needs are and planning not just for yourselves as a city, but with our regional partners as well.
“We’ve already heard the region is a huge part of this from a policy approval perspective, but also from an infrastructure and servicing perspective. If we don’t have the right infrastructure planned and in place then we can’t support the levels of development that we’re going to see.”
 There is a significant amount of work to be done to ensure that all the players understand and buy into what is proposed. Work done in 2017 – 2019  Work done during 2021 and 2022 – it is an ongoing process. The planners are now creating Area Specific Plans for each of the MTSA – which set out a clear path as to where the development can take place.
The Vision has been clear since the current Council took office. The moving of the Urban Growth Centre north of the downtown area has made it possible for the city to undergo the growth the province has imposed. That growth will create the tax base need to cover the cost of making the city a place where seniors and those raising a family can live in comfort.
The challenge at this point is to get through the Ontario Land Tribunals and have an Official Plan that makes the vision possible
By Vlad Mudrova
July 20th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Organizing medical treatment abroad
Every year, millions of people travel outside their native country to receive medical services. Now it has become really simple: just visit the Booking Health website, choose a disease and a treatment method, see the list of the best clinics in the world, compare prices and make an appointment with the chosen specialist. The company’s employees will help you to make the right choice and fully organize your trip.
 Dr Marion Derasse at the Pneumology Department at . The Europe Hospitals Medical services abroad
In developed countries, medicine is developing very rapidly. It receives generous funding, so clinics buy state-of-the-art equipment, poach the best doctors from around the world, conduct many research projects, develop increasingly effective drugs, procedures and operations.
In countries with weak economies, however, medicine is stuck at the level of the twentieth century. Doctors still perform traumatic operations and use unsafe drugs and outdated techniques. As a result, the diseases that modern medicine has learned to cope with still claim the lives of millions of people.
If your native country does not offer the highest level of medicine, there is no necessity to be treated at your place of residence. You can get on a plane and go to another country. Just a couple of hours, and you will be in one of the best clinics in the world! You don’t even have to solve organizational issues on your own because this will be done by Booking Health, a certified medical tourism provider.
How to make your treatment appointment through the Booking Health website?
 Among the clinics recommended in the past is the Academic Hospital Garmisch-Partenkirchen where Ekaterina K., Georgia, Prof. Dr. med. Hans-Dieter Allescher practice. You better start by choosing a clinic. You can do this on the Booking Health website. The service is very convenient: enter a disease in the search bar, select a treatment method, and you will receive a list of clinics where it is used. You can also select the desired country and city, and specify the patient’s age (adult or child), if necessary. The list of hospitals can be sorted by price, rating, reviews, and the nearest free admission date.
The service itself will select the recommended clinics with the optimal ratio of cost and quality of medical services for you. If you want to be treated in the best hospital only, and prices are not of particular importance to you, select the option “TOP clinics” in the drop-down list.
Can’t make a choice? Please leave your request on our website. The Booking Health specialists will contact you and advise you on treatment abroad.
We have all the statistics on clinics, so we know exactly where and what disease is best treated.
How to travel abroad?
Previously, the organization of treatment abroad presented serious difficulties: the choice of a clinic, communication with the administration, medical documents, translation, visa, hotel, air tickets, language barrier, the search for an interpreter abroad and many other problems snowballed on a person who, moreover, is not in the best state of health.
Everything is much easier today. If you make your treatment appointment through the Booking Health service, the company’s employees will fully organize your trip. As a result, you can focus on your health, not worry about anything, and save a lot of nerves, effort, time and money.
 The original price will definitely not increase for you, even if additional medical procedures are required. When you make an appointment through Booking Health, the diagnosis of diseases and treatment abroad become cheaper. Prices are reduced due to the lack of additional fees for international patients. In addition, you will receive an insurance that will cover unexpected expenses up to 200,000 EUR.
This means that the original price will definitely not increase for you, even if additional medical procedures are required.
Take full advantage of medical tourism with Booking Health, and your treatment abroad will become easier, faster and cheaper.
By Pepper Parr
July 20th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Nominations close on August 19th.
Here is the list of the people running for Council and Regional Chair. Data on school elections will follow.
Mayor
 Marianne Meed Ward  Anne Marsden Anne Marsden
Phone: 905-467-2860
Email: anneandave@gmail.com
Website: marsdens.ca
Marianne Meed Ward
Phone: 905-335-1899
Email: marianne4mayor@gmail.com
Website: https://votemarianne.ca/
It will be very difficult for Marsden to pull in more votes than Meed Ward. Both have strong profiles and we can expect Marsden to do well – which will put a dent in the mandate Meed Ward will want to take away from the election.
There is significant expectation that a third candidate will enter the race. A number of people approached Regional Chair Gary Carr to run for Mayor – he recently moved his residence to Burlington.
Ward 1
 Kelvin Galbraith Kelvin Galbraith
Phone: 905-928-4513
Email: kelvingalbraith@gmail.com
Website: kelvingalbraith-ward1.com
Robert Radway
Phone: 289-208-6474
Email: robertradway07@gmail.com
Website: robertradway.com
Radway, a high school teacher didn’t appear to fully understand what it means to be a city Councillor. I think his name is there because he has already paid for his nomination. Any votes he does get will be seen as protest votes against Galbraith – who has some explaining to do over his contribution to the life of the city during his time at city hall.
Ward 2
 Lisa Kearns Keith Demoe
Phone: 289-259-0488
Email: kd@kobaltek.com
Lisa Kearns
Email: LisaKearnsWard2@gmail.com
Website: lisakearnsward2.com
Kearns has earned her paycheck. Very difficult to comment on Demoe – he has said very little about himself and his qualifications.
Lots to say about Kearns. On the positive side she has the best mind on this council; is consistently on top of issues other council members don’t understand.
Ward 3
 Rory Nisan Jennifer Hounslow
Email: jenniferhounslow.ward3@gmail.com
Rory Nisan
Phone: 905-464-7195
Email: info@rorynisan.ca
Website: rorynisan.ca
Hounslow is new to the game. Ward 3 residents will want to hear what she has to say before deciding if it is time for a change.
Nisan has to be given credit for a very good web site. That he has yet to put up a platform is surprising but what he has in place is very good.
 Olivia Duke  Tony Brecknock  Shawna Stolte Ward 4
Tony Brecknock
Phone: 905-334-8118
Email: tony@brecknock.com
Website: brecknock.com
Olivia Duke
Phone: 416-320-8843
Email: olivia@oliviaduke.ca
Website: oliviaduke.ca
Shawna Stolte
Eden Wood
Phone: 905-630-4949
Email: vote.edenwood@gmail.com
Ward 4 is where the action will take place. Stolte has a fight on her hands, not because of what she hasn’t done – she has a solid following – the concern is over what she has done. Her integrity issues are being blown out of proportion – she took a principled stand and paid the price. She has the Mayor on the ropes. Some of the candidates see an opportunity to replace Stolte; they will find it will not be easy – she has brought about more positive changes than any other member of Council and has served her community very well.
No one can find Eden Wood, Tony Brecknock needs to do more at the community level before looking for a seat on Council. Olivia Duke looks interesting – need some time listening to her.
Ward 5
 Paul Sharman Paul Sharman
Phone: 905-320-7467
Email: paul@paulsharman.ca
Website: paulsharman.ca
He could be acclaimed. He could have been Mayor but wasn’t prepared to put in the effort.
Ward 6
 Angelo Bentivegna Angelo Bentivegna
Phone: 905-973-6923
Email: angelo.bentivegna@gmail.com
Rick Greenspoon
Phone: 905-466-4449
Email: greenspoonrick@gmail.com
Angelo Bentivegna had a steep learning curve that he has yet to get all that far along. But he is a tireless advocate for the small business community and more than any other Councillor asks the obvious question: Why?
 Jane McKenna  Andrea Grebenc Regional Chair
Andrea Grebenc
Address: Burlington, ON
Phone: 905-510-4847
Email: contact@andrea4halton.ca
Website: andrea4halton.ca
Jane McKenna
Website: votejanemckenna.ca
Both current Regional Chair Gary Carr and former Oakville Mayor Ann Mulvale are being talked about as possible candidates – neither have filed nomination papers. They have until August 19th to do that. Carr has said he would enter the race. Friends of his pitched him on the idea of running for Mayor of Burlington now that he lives in the city.
Pictures and detail on some of the candidates was not available.
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