 By Gazette Staff
September 25th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
TradePort International Corporation (TradePort), a wholly owned subsidiary of Vantage Group and operator of John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport (Hamilton International, the Airport), today announced that long-time Board Chair Col. R. Foxcroft, O.C. has been appointed Chair Emeritus, recognizing more than three decades of leadership and commitment to the Airport.
TradePort Board of Directors also appointed Stewart Steeves as Chair and Ron McKerlie as a Director.
Foxcroft provided a leadership role at TradePort for 30 years, including 21 years as Chair, during which time Hamilton International reached major milestones that have shaped its role as a key economic driver for the region. During his tenure, the Airport transformed into Canada’s largest overnight express cargo hub, saw remarkable growth in passenger traffic and, most recently, marked a new chapter with a new 49-year lease, completing a multi-million-dollar terminal enhancement and introducing Porter Airlines service.
 Hamilton Airport, Chair Emeritus, Ron Foxcroft In his new role as Chair Emeritus, Foxcroft will continue to serve as an ambassador, advisor and champion for Hamilton International – maintaining his strong connection to the Airport’s future while celebrating the foundation he helped build. To recognize his decades of dedication, TradePort is establishing the TradePort Ron Foxcroft Leadership in Aviation Scholarship at Mohawk College for students pursuing aviation studies. This scholarship honours his legacy of guiding Hamilton International with vision, integrity and a commitment to community impact, while inspiring the next generation of aviation leaders to carry forward those same values.
To support this next chapter, Stewart Steeves, Chief Operating Officer at Vantage Group and long-time TradePort Board member, has been appointed Board Chair. Steeves brings deep experience in airport planning and development, including previously serving as Chief Financial Officer at Hamilton International. Steeves has overseen nearly $10 billion in redevelopment projects across North America and the Caribbean and was instrumental in Hamilton International’s recent terminal improvements and expansion of passenger service through Porter Airlines.
The Board also welcomes Ron McKerlie, the former President of Mohawk College and the Mohawk College Foundation. During his decade of leadership at the College, McKerlie advanced many transformational initiatives, including creating the Centre for Aviation Technology at KF Aerospace. Through this collaborative partnership with industry partners, Mohawk College brought all its aviation programs into a purpose-built, state-of-the-art airside facility located on Hamilton International property. McKerlie also has 35 years in senior roles in the public and private sectors, including the Bank of Montreal, Rogers Communications and the Ontario Government.
“Serving as TradePort’s Board Chair has been one of the greatest privileges of my career, and I look forward to continuing to support the Airport in my new role,” said Foxcroft. “This transition marks an exciting time for TradePort and Hamilton International, as we champion growth of passenger service, alongside our strong cargo operations and continued land development. I am beyond confident in the talent of our expanded Board to carry our mission forward.”
 Hamilton International Airport has become an economic engine for the community and the region. Ron Foxcroft drove much of that growth. “Ron Foxcroft’s legacy at Hamilton International cannot be overstated,” said Steeves. “His vision and leadership have helped position the Airport as a leader in cargo, a growing player in passenger service, and an economic engine for our community. I am honoured to build on this foundation and to have Ron McKerlie bring his expertise as we carry forward with the important work ahead.”
“I am proud to join this dedicated Board,” said McKerlie, Director. “Hamilton International is an economic driver and invaluable community asset, and I look forward to helping advance its growth and continue telling the story of the impact it has on the entire Southern Ontario region.”
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 By Ray Rivers
September 25th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
We laugh with a comedian and laugh at a clown but there is nothing funny about a fool.
Ontario’s premier Ford has flip-flopped on speed cameras. Perhaps one of his family or friends got a ticket? In all fairness there have been rumours of abuse – people claiming they were billed $100 for going 3 kms over the limit. But rather than fix that abuse, he’s decided to throw the baby out with the bathwater and just ban municipal speed cameras all together.
 Speed Cameras: They are resource efficient, indisputably accurate, corruption-proof, and non-invasive, – People who know speed will tell you that cameras work. They are resource efficient, indisputably accurate, corruption-proof, and non-invasive, – only the license plate appears on the ticket. Your ticket doesn’t affect your driving record, only your pocket book.
To defend the ban Ford is claiming speed cameras don’t work – in the face of ample evidence that they do, slowing traffic by almost 50% in one study. His solution is to pepper our city streets with even more of those dreaded speed bumps. You know the ones that can blow out your shocks, scrape your car’s undercarriage and exhaust system and so on. So you’ll pay for speeding one way or another it seems – a speeding ticket or a car repair.
And what about life saving fire-engines and ambulances which will now have to slow down as they bounce over miles of these new Ford bumps. Of course Hamilton with the worst roads in Ontario is well ahead of Mr. Ford’s new policy because pot holes the size of giant Halloween pumpkins work just as well. Speed bumps may be called traffic calming. They are anything but calming – I bounce over these obstructions in getting to where I want to be.
And since speed bumps slow traffic on city streets, don’t be surprised if the genius running this province decides to place them on highways as well. After all, that is where most fatalities actually happen. Ironically, Mr. Ford normally seems to want us to drive faster. He’s been taking out bike lanes, building new highways, increasing speed limits – so one has to wonder what is driving Ford.
 How pouring prime Canadian whiskey on the ground protects Ontario is hard to understand. Colbert and Kimmel are comedians and Doug Ford’s brother Rob was an unfortunate clown. But Doug Ford, still the most popular Ontario political leader, is just a fool when it comes to speed cameras. So what does that make the rest of us?
 Ray Rivers, a Gazette Contributing Editor, writes regularly applying his more than 25 years as a federal bureaucrat to his thinking. Rivers was once a candidate for provincial office in Burlington. He was the founder of the Burlington citizen committee on sustainability at a time when climate warming was a hotly debated subject. Ray has a post graduate degree in economics that he earned at the University of Ottawa. Tweet @rayzrivers
Background links:
Ford Popular Speed Cameras Camera’s Work 45% Reduction How They Work Speed Bump Damage
 By Gazette Staff
September 25th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
All provinces with the exception of Ontario and Manitoba have effective deposit-return systems for a wide range of beverages, including alcohol, with high rates of return through the use of dedicated return depots and the participation of grocery stores.
 Environmental damage – right in front of us. “Pop and water empties are some of the most common litter in Ontario,” said Karen Wirsig, Senior Program Manager for Plastics at Environmental Defence. “We’ve known for many years that curbside recycling is not up to the task of ensuring cans and bottles are collected and refilled or recycled. Ontario needs to expand deposit-return to all beverage containers now.”
“Deposit return works in other jurisdictions,” noted Duncan Bury of Waste Watch Ottawa. “The province must legislate and beverage producers must implement a system for Ontario along the same lines as programs that producers and grocers successfully operate across the country.”
“After spending $612 million to speed up the rollout of alcoholic beverage sales in grocery and convenience stores, the Ontario government now needs to commit to addressing the problems those changes have created for people trying to return their alcohol empties,” said Linda Gasser of Zero Waste 4 Zero Burning. “We need deposit return in Ontario and the government must work with retailers who sell alcohol and are encountering legitimate constraints to take back empties. The bottom line is that deposit return prevents containers from going in the garbage, which in York and Durham means being burned in the waste incinerator. Burning these materials causes dangerous air pollution and increases greenhouse gas emissions.”
 All these bottles could have been recycled if governments had made the effort to put a program in place. Ontario has done nothing. “The best way to manage beverage containers, including plastic, glass and aluminum cans, is to reuse or recycle them,” said Liz Benneian of the Ontario Zero Waste Coalition. “Having these useful materials end up buried in the ground or burnt in an incinerator is wasteful in the worst sense of the word, and is costly to the environment and human health.”
“We desperately need effective waste reduction and pollution prevention programs that help curb the demand for virgin plastics,” said Sehjal Bhargava, family physician and co-chair of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment Ontario regional committee. “Physicians are witnessing an unprecedented health crisis linked to plastic, which threatens human health at every stage of its lifecycle, from oil and gas extraction to plastics production, use and disposal. It’s a matter of health today and for future generations.”
“Toronto, and most municipalities in Ontario, are grappling with rising waste costs,” said Emily Alfred, Waste Campaigner at the Toronto Environmental Alliance. “Instead of fixing the recycling, the new Blue Box regulation is going to make things worse for the environment and for our cities. Without a comprehensive deposit-return program, we’ll continue to see embarrassing amounts of cans, bottles and cartons littering our streets and parks and in our garbage bins.”
 All this plastic could be used and put to good use. Governments need to be pressured to get something in place. BACKGROUND
- Less than 50 per cent of non-alcoholic beverage containers are collected and sorted for recycling in Ontario. In provinces with effective and comprehensive deposit-return programs, recycling and refill rates are consistently close to 80 per cent.
- In changes to the curbside Blue Box regulations announced on September 5, producer responsibility for non-alcoholic beverage producers was reduced to include only drinks that people consume at home. This leaves at least 30 per cent of containers consumed away from home outside the scope of the regulation, and therefore much more likely to end up as litter or in waste disposal.
- Some 1.7 billion plastic bottles are thrown away or littered in Ontario every year.
- The provincial government abandoned work with stakeholders to establish a deposit-return program for non-alcoholic beverages in 2024 in favour of the Blue Box program. However, the recent Blue Box amendments make waste from beverage containers worse, not better.
- Ontario’s long-successful deposit-return program for alcoholic beverages is now under threat due to the closure of nearly 100 Beer Store locations, which serve as return locations for alcoholic beverage empties. Smaller and more remote communities are especially impacted by these closures.
- The provincial government has the opportunity now to bring producers of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages together under one efficient and effective program.
 By Gazette Staff
September 25, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Chair of the Halton District School Board has written a letter to the Premier. Here is what the Chair has to say:
September 24, 2025
Honourable Doug Ford Premier of Ontario
Honourable Paul Calandra Minister of Education
Re: School Board Trustees and request for public consultation Dear Premier Ford and Minister Calandra,
At the September 16 Board meeting of the Halton District School Board, Trustees unanimously voted in favour of the following resolution:
Be it resolved that the Board of Trustees direct the Chair to write a letter to Premier Doug Ford and Minister of Education, Paul Calandra, with a copy to MPPs, Ontario Public School Boards’ Association, OSTA-ACO, Presidents of Provincial Unions, and the media, regarding the work of School Board Trustees and Student Trustees in fulfilling the mandates of the Board as set out in the Ontario Education Act, and that the Minister conduct a public consultation before making any changes to the Education Act regarding the role of Trustees.
 Local school boards have been meeting in Ontario since 1816; often in one-room schools. There was a time when Premier Boll Davis led the Department of Education and made it one of the best in North America. The position of School Board Trustee is the longest-serving democratically elected position in what is now known as Canada, serving our communities since 1816. Trustees are the only elected representatives whose primary responsibility is student achievement and well-being. We carry out our role and fulfill the mandate of our elected position through our deep connection and familiarity with the needs of the communities in which we live and whom we serve.
The requirement that Trustees must live in the area we serve, and bring the concerns of the community to the attention of the board, ensures that Trustees represent their communities’ interests and needs while acting as liaisons between the families we represent and the provincial government. When we reach out to our community for their input and feedback, we get genuine engagement that is relevant and meaningful.
Trustees are responsible for the oversight of their local school board through the Education Act and associated Regulations. We support the Ministry by ensuring the implementation of the provincial curricula, strategies and mandates, supporting the Ministry’s consultation needs, and by bringing local and provincial issues and concerns to the Ministry’s attention while keeping student achievement and well-being in sharp focus.
We are the greatest advocates and supporters of Ontario’s publicly funded education system, always cognizant of our responsibility to uphold public support of publicly funded education.
The families in our communities know we are very familiar with their schools and neighbourhoods, and that we will listen to their perspectives to arrive at the best possible decisions, whether setting the school board’s strategic direction through the Multi-Year Strategic Plan or focusing on our fiduciary responsibilities by leading evaluations into program viability, special education, school boundary reviews and (prior to 2017) school closures.
We engage with all key stakeholders in meaningful and extensive consultations, respond to parents’ concerns and sometimes opposition, navigate challenging community dynamics, and support students who are struggling in the school system.
On a daily basis, Trustees help students and their families navigate the education system, whether they are concerned about academics, have questions about program placements, want to report bullying, need mental health resources, or are seeking information about special education, all with the goal that no student be left behind.
Trustees are often the greatest — and sometimes the only — ally for a student and their family as we collaboratively begin to address their concerns and sort out issues, facilitating a connection to the staff person best equipped to assist them.
 Amy Collard: Chair, Halton District School Board. We chose to become Trustees because we care deeply about providing excellent public education in Ontario, and have a passion to fulfill our role with a deep sense of responsibility and dedication to every student and their success. This is what grounds and inspires us to do the very best we can for every student. By doing so, Trustees support their respective school boards and the provincial government in delivering on the mandate to provide the best possible learning experience for students.
The role of the school board Trustee was recently summarized by an HDSB Student Trustee in the following manner; she said, “How do we uphold democracy within our educational system? As locally elected representatives, Trustees serve as a structural avenue for accountability, transparency, debate, and most importantly for student priorities to be heard.”
 Trustees are often the greatest — and sometimes the only for a community as we collaboratively begin to address their concerns and sort out issues. This public meeting on the closing of schools was organized by the trustees. As elected representatives, we have an opportunity to continue working together in partnership — Trustees and MPPs — to focus on the bigger picture. Working as a team we can build a better, stronger public education system in Ontario. We would like to invite the Ministry’s collaboration with Trustees to identify and propose solutions to systemic issues and reach province-wide consistency while respecting local realities.
For all of the reasons mentioned above, we strongly recommend that the Minister engage in public consultations regarding Trustees’ continued role in strengthening public education prior to making any changes to the Education Act.
Ontario has a great opportunity here and now. Let’s all work together.
Sincerely, Amy Collard
Chair, Halton District School Board Trustee, Burlington Ward 5
Cc:
MPPs
Ontario Public School Boards’ Association OSTA-ACO
Presidents of Provincial Unions Media
By Gazette Staff
September 24th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
There isn’t a day that goes by without at least one news story about someone who got ripped off by someone on line. Some of the damage in real dollars reaches $10000.00 That is not chump change.
The very young and many of the older people get caught up in something they don’t realize is a scam.
 There is some help available.
What if teaching cybersecurity felt as easy as printing a worksheet?
The Gazette is a member of the Canadian Internet Registration Authority (CIRA). They are the people who record and regulate all the websites that have a .ca (dot ca) after their name, signifying that they are a Canadian company.
 Study material for elementary and secondary school students. Seniors will find it helpful. They have put together a number of study guides for different age groups. CIRA is as good as it gets when it come to integrity. The material is free.
It would be well worth your while to look into this. Use it with your children, pass it along to any seniors you know. You can find it HERE.
By Gazette Staff
September 24th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Doug Ford was returned to office in February, for the third time. You get to do what you want when you are re-elected. And that is just what they are doing with the Hwy 413 project.
 These Early Works projects are located in areas where engineering design and field investigations have progressed, and were chosen by the MTO because they are either in areas that are, or were previously disturbed, and where the likelihood of environmental impacts is low. The development is now in an Early Works stage; initiatives that take place early in the construction process to lay the foundation for many of the construction activities to follow.
The Early Works projects associated with Highway 413 are identified in the Highway 413 Act, 2024. These Early Works projects are located in areas where engineering design and field investigations have progressed, and were chosen by the MTO because they are either in areas that are, or were previously disturbed, and where the likelihood of environmental impacts is low. Some Early Works are also located in areas that have been identified by local municipalities for additional infrastructure improvements.
Highway 413 Early Works projects include:
Location of Early Works projects
- Early Works Project #1: Embankment at 401/407 ETR/413 Interchange
- Early Works Project #2: Highway 10/Hurontario Street Resurfacing & Underpass
- Early Works Project #3: Bovaird Drive Underpass.
By Gazette Staff
September 24th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton District School Board will host a board-wide, interactive Secondary School Open House at Craig Kielburger Secondary School in Milton (1151 Ferguson Dr, Milton) on Saturday, Sept. 27th.
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This event is designed to help students in Grade 6–10 and their families explore the full range of opportunities available across HDSB secondary schools, including programs and pathways, academics, athletics, clubs, community and support and student life.
 Secondary school students at a Skills Workshop This is not just an information session. It’s a celebration of what makes the HDSB vibrant and unique. With hands-on activities, student-led booths and real-time engagement, this event will be fun, inspiring and a powerful first connection for future secondary students.
 Curtis Ennis, Director of Education for the Halton District School Board. “We’re excited to welcome students, families, staff and community members to the HDSB Secondary School Open House this weekend,” says Curtis Ennis, Director of Education for the Halton District School Board. “This event is a fantastic opportunity to see how our secondary schools support every student’s success. From academics and athletics to leadership, innovation and community involvement, we are proud to showcase the many ways HDSB schools empower students to excel today and prepare for the opportunities of tomorrow.”
To help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all families, those interested in attending are asked to complete the registration form, including a preferred attendance time slot. Parking is free but limited, and time slots will be assigned on a first come, first served basis.
Parents/guardians with questions about the HDSB Secondary School Open House or secondary school in the HDSB can learn more by visiting the Secondary School Open House webpage on the HDSB website.
 Not a cell phone in sight. Students are focused on the computer screens. HDSB 2024-2028 Multi-Year Strategic Plan
The 2024-2028 Multi-Year Strategic Plan sets direction and prioritizes the collective actions of all students, staff, families and community members. This plan ensures our efforts as an organization are aligned and coordinated to support more than 65,000 students, 11,000 staff and the broader HDSB community. The six commitments identified in this four-year plan intersect and overlap to ensure that we take a cohesive approach to fulfilling its objectives.
Background resources
Secondary Pathways, Programs and Tools
 By Gazette Staff
September 24th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
In the second round of funding the provincial government is “rewarding” municipalities for their progress toward housing targets.
The Town of Oakville received $13.2 million through the second round of the Building Faster Fund, which provides funding to municipalities that achieve at least 80 per cent of their provincially designated housing targets. Oakville broke ground on 3,679 new homes in 2024, which works out to 134 per cent of its 2024 housing target.
The Premier didn’t make it to the Oakville event – the Minister of Housing did the honours.
This funding will help Oakville build more homes and community infrastructure and supports the province’s plan to protect Ontario by investing in infrastructure to support economic growth and keep workers on the job.
 Anyone with a cheque for $13.2 million is welcome in the Town.  Mayor Meed Ward and the Premier are not chums – everything between them is transactional. Announced in August 2023, the Building Faster Fund is a three-year, $1.2 billion program that is designed to encourage municipalities to speed up approval processes and get more homes built faster. The program rewards municipalities that make significant progress against their targets by providing funding for housing-enabling and community-enabling infrastructure. Additionally, the Building Faster Fund is complemented by a $35 million investment in municipalities across Halton Region through the Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program, which will support the construction of over 29,000 new homes. This includes $3.2 million for the Town of Oakville.
The Ontario government is also helping to speed up the construction of new homes and infrastructure, including by streamlining development processes and reducing costs in close partnership with municipalities, through the Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act 2025.
From January to August 2025, Ontario saw 13,910 rental starts, an increase of 23 per cent compared to the same period in 2024. This is the highest level of rental starts on record for this time of the year. Others don’t see the same progress the province is barking about. Tom Parkin has pointed out just how far behind in building than the other provinces.
Burlington wasn’t on the list this time around.
Related news items:
Poor housing starts impact more than the construction industry
 By Tom Parkin
September 24, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Ontario’s residential construction sector is small and getting smaller, but sector unions appear reluctant to publicly raise concerns as the Ford government weaponizes a key grant program.
Ontario’s shrunken residential construction industry
 Employment in residential construction per 100,000 population Kick-starting Ontario’s residential construction sector to build thousands of much-needed new homes could create up to 30,000 jobs, an analysis of Statistics Canada jobs data shows.
Just 57,600 workers were employed in Ontario’s residential construction sector this June, according to StatCan’s survey of employment by industry. In other provinces with better housing results, employment is much higher.
Residential construction: small and getting smaller
Residential construction employs a smaller percentage of workers in Ontario than any other province except Saskatchewan. For every 100,000 employed workers, Ontario residential construction generates just 700 jobs compared to 913 in Quebec and 1,055 in British Columbia.
An Ontario home-building strategy that developed a sector as robust as in B.C. would add over 29,200 badly-needed jobs building badly-needed housing. At Quebec levels, Ontario would have about 17,500 more jobs. Over 800,000 Ontario workers were unemployed in August.
But Ontario housing construction has gone from bad to worse. In August, only 5,100 housing units were started in Ontario, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. That result falls far short of the 12,500 starts per month the PCs in 2021 promised their policies would deliver.
The PCs’ housing flame-out has become a big jobs killer, making Ontario’s small sector even smaller. Employment is down almost 10 per cent in two years.
In June 2025 there were 6,100 fewer jobs in the sector than June 2023 when almost 64,000 Ontarians were employed in residential construction.
Lack of building also affects jobs outside the construction sector, particularly in forestry, which is heavily reliant on providing lumber to homebuilders. But other sectors, like utilities, are also affected.
 Employment in Ontario residential construction, Jan 2018-Jun 2025 Unions quiet on jobs as PCs weaponize key training fund
Despite the job losses, significant unions in the sector appear to be self-censoring their concerns as the Ford government politicizes the Skills Development Fund (SDF) that union apprenticeship programs depend on.
The SDF has come under scrutiny after news reports of PC political meddling and grants going to private companies with a history of PC Party support. The Auditor-General has opened an investigation into the Fund.
A $17 million grant to Scale Hospitality was approved after the political intervention of an assistant to Ontario Premier Doug Ford and despite their application being submitted after the deadline and receiving a low score from bureaucrats. The assistant has since left Ford’s office, setting up a lobby firm that was then paid by Scale Hospitality.
Scale Hospitality proposed to train workers for several swanky downtown Toronto restaurants including some owned by significant PC Party donors. The $17 million project trained only 5,300 workers, according to the Ministry of Labour.
The Fund also supplied about $9 million to Canadian Niagara Hotels, whose CEO, Dino DiCienzo, has also been a generous PC Party donor. The grants raised the ire of instructors at Niagara College, which has been forced to cancel hospitality training due to Ford’s cuts to colleges. Their union, OPSEU, has publicly raised concerns the training grants to private companies are undermining the very stressed college system.
SDF cash has also gone to other private companies whose owners have deep PC Party connections.
Unions in the building and construction sector have for many years been large recipients of SDF money to operate their apprenticeship and skills programs. But the SDF’s recent politicization now puts all grant recipients at risk of political threat or manipulation by the PCs.
After OPSEU raised concern about the government’s use of SDF money to help PC campaign donors, the Labourer’s Union last week distanced itself from the criticisms, pulling out of the Ontario Federation of Labour and saying it was “nothing but bad politics” to attack the Ford government or the SDF.
 Tom Parkin is a social democratic columnist and commentator based in Toronto
He can be reached at: tparkin@impact-strategies.ca
 By Pepper Parr
September 23rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Canada at one point ordered TikTok to wind up its business operations.
The American government has ordered TikTok to sell the company and there are a number of big money operators who are in line to buy the company.
It is now pretty clear that TikTok has been gathering data, which was available to the Chinese government.
When the company is in the hands of Americans, the same thing is going to happen – they, the new American owners, will gather information on Americans, and it will become available to American government departments: think CIA, FBI, and the American revenue people.
 By Gazette Staff
September 24th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Bring the family to BPAC this Saturday to celebrate Culture Days!
Enjoy a full day of FREE arts activities and performances by beloved local artists and organizations.
 By Gazette Staff
September 24th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
2025 marks the centennial of Dr. Oscar Peterson, one of the greatest pianists in jazz history.
 Oscar put everything he had into all his performances. Audiences leaned in to hear the way his fingers pressed the keys. To celebrate his legacy, we invite you to experience a world-class concert with the Oscar Peterson Centennial Quartet, featuring pianist Robi Botos, bassist Mike Downes, special guest guitarist Jocelyn Gould, and drummer Jim Doxas.
 Oscar Peterson Centennial Quartet, These exceptional jazz artists will highlight Oscar Peterson’s most famous compositions, such as “Place St-Henri,” “Hymn to Freedom” and “Cakewalk.”
Additionally, during the evening, Oscar Peterson’s daughter, Céline Peterson, will join the quartet to offer an intimate look into her father’s exceptional life and career.
Don’t miss this once-in-a-century celebration.
Thu, Oct 2, 2025, at 7:30pm
Tickets here
By Gazette Staff
September 23rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington issued charges under its Private and Public Tree By-laws in relation to tree cutting on Millcroft development property at 2155 Country Club Drive that occurred earlier this spring.
 This is what the city is now saying was illegal and has laid charges in Provincial Court. A proactive municipal would have sent a bylaw officer in with an order to cease cutting.. Five parties, including the developer, landowner, and contractor, are facing charges under the Private Tree By-law (40-2022) for allegedly causing or permitting the injury or destruction of trees without the required permits between April and June 2025. Additional charges have been laid against the contractor for removing and damaging trees under the Public Tree By-law (68-2013).
As this matter is currently before the courts, no further comment will be provided at this time.
The City understands how deeply people care about this neighbourhood, and we are committed to ongoing monitoring and transparency throughout the construction process.
The City is working with the developer to provide construction-related updates as they become available on millcroftgreens.com and www.burlington.ca/millcroftupdates
Isn’t this a case of the horse being already out of the barn? Whatever the fine – it will be written off as the cost of doing business. Maybe an apology will make the city happy.
Will the city advise the public when the matter will be heard in Court so people can hear the arguments?
 The people doing the work needed to keep some of the trees safe have put fencing around many areas of the site. Links and Resources
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By Pepper Parr
September 23rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
So – we didn’t get it wrong:
There was some confusion over the application dates for the Appeals Committeee jobs. These are paid positions: Chair earns $100 per meeting, mebers earn $80 per meeting.
 Communications thought the method they used to announce the need for members of an important committee was one that would “resonate” best with the people they wanted to attract. The information we came across on social media (have you any idea how much information the city and the mayor dump into social media channels?) said the closing date was September 2nd.
But the information on the city website said the closing date was September 24th.
A number of Gazette readers pointed this out to us, so I revised the story and asked the City Communications people why the information related to an important Advisory group was not sent out as a media release?
Here is the response we got:
The original closing date for applications for the Appeals Committee was Sept. 2, 2025. This opportunity was shared on City social media channels and on the city’s website: https://www.burlington.ca/en/council-and-city-administration/apply-to-a-board-or-committee.aspx
On Sept. 18, 2025, the deadline for applications was re-opened until Sept. 24, 2025. This information was also shared on City social media channels and the city’s website: https://www.burlington.ca/en/council-and-city-administration/apply-to-a-board-or-committee.aspx
We appreciate the interest in how we handle committee requirements.
In this case, we selected strategies that are most likely to resonate and engage with potential candidates.
There are enough people in the Communications department to pump out a media release – especially for an important sub-judicial committee.
There is a suggestion that the city has already decided who they want – putting a note out on social media just doesn’t cut it.
At best, this is sloppy work.
For those interested, the closing date for applications is tomorrow.
 By Pepper Parr
September 23rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The issue about the amount of swimming pool time Burlington Aquatic Devilrays (BAD) has been given and just how many members they have and how many hours of pool time Golden Horseshoe Aquatic Club (GHAC) has been given needs to be set out in bold letters.
 This issue is about people who live in Burlington and belong to a swimming club (BAD) and want to use Burlington swimming pools. The driving force here is Burlington – not Hamilton. And the ultimate responsibility belongs with Council. Prior to the current contract BAD had 40 hours of pool time each week. In the new contract, they have 17 hours and GHAC has 36 hours of pool time.
What many are upset about is: Why does a Tier 1 community swimming club not have the hours it needs to run a solid swimming program?
The contract the City Procurement department prepared required a swimming club to have 85% of it members living in Burlington.
  BAD reported that 79% of its members lived in Burlington; GHAC reported that 28% of its members lived in Burlington. Both Clubs were expected to provide the Procurment department with their true numbers by the end of September.
When a person wants to be a member of a swimming club they have to be registered with Swim Ontario (as well as Swim Canada) That registration is done by the swimming club a swimmer is joining
The reason for this approach is that Swim Ontario collects all the data on each swimmer, including how they placed in any competitions they took part in.
Recall that the Procurement people who were given the task of determining which swimming club would be given pool time in 2026 Burlington was expected to have 85% of its members as residents of Burlington.
There have been modest fluctuations in the numbers over time, with Burlington Aquatic Devilrays (BAD) having approximately 79% residency, while GHAC was observed at only 28%.
Sources have suggested that the procurement department has, or is considering, a change in the way the 85% Burlington residency requirement is calculated.
Current Rule (original intent)
The requirement is currently calculated as the percentage of a club’s Burlington-resident swimmers compared to its total membership across all communities.
- GHAC: 150 Burlington residents ÷ 540 total members = 28%
- BAD: 316 Burlington residents ÷ 400 total members = 79%
This approach aligns with common practice in most swim communities and serves to ensure that the rule protects Burlington-rooted clubs from being displaced by larger regional organizations with multiple sources of recruitment and revenue.
Proposed Change
The suggested revision would calculate the residency percentage only among swimmers who both reside in Burlington and swim in Burlington, rather than against the club’s total membership across all communities. GHAC has a reported 540 members (give or take) spread among several communities, including Hamilton, Dundas, Stoney Creek and Ancaster.
Under this approach:
- GHAC: 150 ÷ 150 = 100%
- BAD: 316 ÷ 316 = 100%
This effectively places any club that uses Burlington pools into automatic compliance, regardless of how much of its overall membership comes from outside Burlington.
Why This Undermines the Original Requirement
- The original intent of the 85% rule was to prioritize Burlington-based clubs and ensure that city pool allocations primarily benefit Burlington residents.
- The proposed rule would strip the requirement of meaning: large regional clubs could claim full compliance despite most of their membership living elsewhere.
- In contrast, most swim communities maintain the broader calculation (total membership basis) and serves to ensure that community clubs remain protected from regional competition.
 Lisa Kearns wants the City Auditor to look into just what has happened. A closer look at what the Procurement people are trying to do suggests at the least some sleight of hand.
This situation is being very poorly handed at the department level. It belongs on the desks of the City Council where all the facts are put on the table.
Lisa Kearns, ward 2 Councillor, who is currently in Africa representing the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, is expected back later this week. Her expressed intention is to move a motion that has the matter being sent to the City Auditor who can ask the questions needed to get a full picture as to how this mess was created.
 By Gazette Staff
September 23rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Coming up this Saturday!
 Live demonstrations in the historic house Ireland House This event will feature live demonstrations in the historic house and a market offering a variety of fibre art-related products. There will also be a children’s activity station Admission is pay-what-you-may.
Pre-registration is not required, 10am to 2pm at Ireland House Museum.
Celebrate Culture Days and visit Ireland House Museum for our Heritage Fibre Fest.
Explore the rich world of fibre arts, showcasing techniques and traditions that would have been popular among the Ireland family—and still are today!
 By Pepper Parr
September 23rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
The Provincial Liberals will be holding a convention to select a new leader.
With Bonnie Crombie no longer leading the provincial Liberal party there is public interest in who the next leader will be.
A number of names have been mentioned, including Jeff Lehman, former Mayor of Barrie, who announced this week that he would not be in the race.
Lehman was a centrist who had been organizing a bid to replace Crombie, but instead, he’s focusing on his daughter’s health.
 Gould was a political junkie at the age of 14 and went on to win her first election in 2015. An astute politician, her leadership aspirations have always been part of the plan. Lehman’s exit leaves a gap in the already-crowded leadership race, which includes names like NATE ERSKINE-SMITH, YVAN BAKER, NAVDEEP BAINS, KARINA GOULD, MARCO MENDOCINO, JOSH MATLOW, ANDREW BOOZARY, ROB CERJANEC, TED HSU, STEPHANIE BOWMAN and more.
Word on the street is that some high-profile organizers wasted no time in looking for another candidate to support, while some potential contenders are hoping to scoop them up.
There has been no word from Karina Gould, who is the MP for Burlington. Once a federal Cabinet Minister and also once a leadership candidate for the federal Liberals (Mark Carney won that race), there is room for a move.
Gould has made it clear she sees leadership as part of her future. Would running for the Burlington seat in the Legislature – (defeating Natalie Pierre wouldn’t be a problem) be a first step?.
 Gould defeated Mike Wallace in 2015 and has held the seat ever since. Could she defeat Doug Ford and become the Premier?
Both would be pluses for the province.
Does Gould take the risk – serve as the Premier for two terms and then take a run for the federal Liberal leadership?
She is still a very young woman. Could she do it? Will she do it?
All we know at this point is – Gould, unlike Lehman, hasn’t said she would not.
By Samanthat Serle
September 23rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
University life is often romanticized as a period of independence, exploration, and academic achievement. Yet, for many students, it also comes with overwhelming challenges that can affect academic performance, mental health, and overall well-being. The transition from high school to university requires students to adapt to new environments, academic rigor, and personal responsibilities, often all at once. Understanding these challenges – and more importantly, how to overcome them – can help students make the most of their university experience.
This article explores the top challenges university students face today and provides practical strategies to overcome them.
1. Academic Pressure and Workload
The Challenge
One of the most significant struggles students encounter is adjusting to the intense academic demands of university. Unlike high school, where assignments are spread out and teachers often provide reminders, university coursework is more self-directed. Students juggle multiple subjects, extensive reading lists, research papers, projects, and exams – all while meeting strict deadlines. This pressure to succeed can be overwhelming for many, leading them to seek support. It’s not uncommon for students to turn to services when they need to get quality paper writing help to ensure their work meets academic standards.
Many students feel overwhelmed by the volume of work and the high expectations placed on them. This pressure can lead to stress, burnout, or even academic failure if not managed effectively.
How to Overcome It
- Time Management: Use planners, digital calendars, or task management apps to prioritize tasks and avoid last-minute cramming.
- Break Work Into Smaller Tasks: Dividing big projects into smaller steps reduces anxiety and makes progress more visible.
- Seek Academic Support: Most universities offer writing centers, tutoring, and study workshops. Taking advantage of these resources can ease the burden.
- Study Smart, Not Just Hard: Techniques like active recall, spaced repetition, and summarizing notes can improve retention and reduce study hours.
2. Financial Stress
The Challenge
For many students, university represents their first real encounter with financial independence. Tuition fees, textbooks, housing, food, and transportation can add up quickly, leaving students stressed about money. Many resort to part-time jobs, which, while helpful financially, can interfere with academic focus. International students, in particular, face additional expenses like higher tuition and visa costs.
How to Overcome It
- Budget Wisely: Track expenses and set spending limits for non-essential items. Free budgeting apps can simplify this process.
- Apply for Scholarships and Grants: Universities, governments, and private organizations often provide financial aid opportunities.
- Work Strategically: If part-time work is necessary, choose flexible jobs on or near campus that won’t heavily interfere with studies.
- Learn Basic Financial Literacy: Understanding credit, debt, and savings can help students avoid common financial pitfalls.
3. Mental Health and Stress
The Challenge
University students often face high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Pressure to succeed academically, maintain social relationships, and plan for the future can feel overwhelming. According to numerous studies, mental health issues among students have increased in recent years, partly due to academic pressures and the lingering effects of the pandemic.
How to Overcome It
- Prioritize Self-Care: Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and balanced nutrition are essential for mental well-being.
- Seek Counseling Services: Most universities provide free or low-cost counseling. Talking to a professional can help students navigate stress and anxiety.
- Build a Support Network: Having friends, mentors, or family members to talk to reduces feelings of isolation.
- Practice Mindfulness: Techniques like meditation, journaling, or deep breathing exercises can help regulate stress.
4. Adapting to Independence and Responsibility
The Challenge
For many students, university is the first time they live away from home. Suddenly, they must manage their own meals, laundry, finances, and schedules – on top of academic obligations. The sudden independence can feel liberating but also daunting, especially when poor organization leads to missed deadlines or unhealthy routines.
How to Overcome It
- Create Routines: Establishing consistent habits around studying, eating, and sleeping helps maintain balance.
- Set Realistic Goals: Break large responsibilities into smaller, manageable ones. For example, start with meal prepping one or two times per week.
- Ask for Guidance: Universities often provide workshops on adulting skills like budgeting, cooking, and time management.
- Learn from Mistakes: Struggles are part of growing into independence – view them as lessons rather than failures.
5. Social Adjustment and Loneliness
The Challenge
Moving to a new environment often means leaving behind established social circles. For many students, especially those studying abroad, building new friendships can be intimidating. Cultural differences, language barriers, and social anxiety can make it harder to connect, and students may feel isolated or lonely as a result.
How to Overcome It
- Join Clubs and Societies: Universities offer a wide range of student organizations, from sports teams to cultural groups, which provide opportunities to meet like-minded people.
- Attend Social Events: Freshers’ week, campus fairs, and academic seminars are excellent ways to build connections.
- Use Peer Support Programs: Some universities assign mentors or peer buddies to help new students adapt.
- Stay Connected With Home: Maintaining communication with family and old friends can provide comfort during tough times.
6. Balancing Work, Study, and Personal Life
The Challenge
Many students take on part-time jobs to support themselves financially. Others engage in extracurricular activities, internships, or volunteer work to boost their resumes. While these commitments are valuable, they can lead to exhaustion when combined with coursework and personal obligations.
How to Overcome It
- Set Priorities: Decide what’s most important at any given time – sometimes academics may need to come first, while other times personal well-being takes priority.
- Use Scheduling Tools: Color-coded calendars can visually separate work, study, and personal activities.
- Learn to Say No: Overcommitting can lead to burnout. Choose activities that align with your goals and values.
- Build Downtime Into Your Schedule: Rest and leisure are just as important as productivity.
7. Career Uncertainty and Pressure About the Future
The Challenge
University is not just about academics – it’s also about preparing for the future. Many students feel anxious about career prospects, especially with competitive job markets and rising expectations for internships and experience. Uncertainty about whether their chosen field will lead to stable employment can add extra stress.
How to Overcome It
- Use Career Services: Universities often provide resume reviews, career counseling, and networking events.
- Pursue Internships: Practical experience not only builds resumes but also gives students insights into potential careers.
- Stay Flexible: Career paths are rarely linear. Keeping an open mind helps students adapt to changing opportunities.
- Network Early: Building professional connections through alumni, professors, and LinkedIn can open doors to opportunities later.
8. Cultural and Language Barriers (For International Students)
The Challenge
International students often face additional hurdles, including adapting to new cultures, learning in a second language, and managing homesickness. These challenges can impact both academic performance and social integration.
How to Overcome It
- Participate in Orientation Programs: These are designed to help international students adapt to local customs and campus life.
- Improve Language Skills: Enroll in language workshops or use language-learning apps.
- Seek Community: Joining cultural clubs or international student groups can create a sense of belonging.
- Stay Connected Globally: Regular calls with family and friends can ease homesickness while fostering cross-cultural resilience.
Conclusion
University is a transformative stage of life, filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and self-discovery. However, it also presents real challenges – academic pressure, financial stress, mental health struggles, independence, social adjustment, and career uncertainty. By acknowledging these obstacles and adopting proactive strategies, students can not only survive but thrive during their time at university.
The key lies in balance: balancing work with rest, independence with support, and ambition with self-compassion. University is not just about achieving a degree – it’s about building resilience, acquiring life skills, and preparing for a fulfilling future.
By Gazette Staff
September 22nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Jan McCormick is the minister at East Plains United Church in Burlington. She sent us an unusual story she wanted us to share.
Clergy live interesting lives; they have an ear close to the ground and know just about everything about their congregation
East Plains United Church has been an integral part of the Aldershot community for 182 years. It has a cemetery on the property, which has been there as long as there has been a church building, perhaps longer.
 Reverend Jan McCormick is the minister at East Plains United Church. McCormick explains: “This spring, the Building and Property Committee of the church decided that it was time to replace a walkway leading from the parking lot on the east side of the church property to an entry door which is used most frequently by the Aldershot Child Care Centre, which is located within the building. Over time, the walkway had heaved and cracked. Last winter, there were times when ice formation rendered the walkway quite dangerous for parents and children to navigate. It was a safety issue that needed to be rectified.
“The church contracted with Burlington Paving to do the repair. It was to be a one-day job. As the staff dug down to lay new crushed stone in preparation for paving, they hit something. Upon investigation, it was discovered that there is a decommissioned oil tank buried between the church building and the cemetery. Paving work stopped.
 Getting a sling around the 3000 gallon tank and lifting it out onto a flatbed truck led to a skull buried in the soil. “The current environmental laws require that, if an oil tank is discovered buried on a property, it must be removed. The Building and Property Committee set about finding a contractor to remove the oil tank. After receiving estimates and doing their due diligence, a contractor was hired.
“On Friday, June 20th, the crew arrived to remove the oil tank, The tank was opened. It was found to have some residual oil in it and some sand. Both substances were removed separately and taken to the appropriate disposal site. Once the tank was empty, the crew began to remove soil from the front and sides of the tank in order to put a sling around the 3000 gallon tank and lift it out onto a flatbed truck. As the second bucket load was being deposited on the ground, a crew member shouted that he saw something unusual in the soil pile. Work stopped and the pile was examined. There was what appeared to be a partial skull and some other pieces of bone amongst the soil and stones. Work was halted. The police were called. The Forensics Unit arrived. Suddenly, we had a scene from a crime drama unfolding on the church property.
“It was determined that the bones were not from a recent burial. no crime had been committed. The case was transferred to the coroner. When the coroner examined the artifacts, we were told that these were, indeed human remains and that they were very old. The case was then transferred to the Bereavement Authority of Ontario. Within a few days, a representative of the church’s Board of Trustees was informed that a Burial Site Assessment must be completed by a registered Archaeological Research Company.
“That process began this past week and more bones have been uncovered.
 “That process began this past week and more bones have been uncovered. “There will come a point in the process when the oil tank will be removed, so that the researchers can investigate below and around the tank “nest”. At this point, the soil around the tank “nest” will also be tested for contamination.through any oil leakage. If any contamination is found, excavation will need to continue until no further contamination is found.”
“Eventually, the hole will be refilled, the remains will be re-buried and the “one day” walkway repair will be completed. We are hopeful that that might happen before winter is upon us.”
There just might be more to this story. All Clergy know that the first conversation about an issue or a problem – is only the beginning.
The findings do give meaning to the Land Acknowledgements that are read in many churches.
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