 By Pepper Parr
May 27th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The new normal – we are seeing more and more of it in the community.
 The hospitality sector took a terrible beating – some just disappeared others will struggle for years to recover what they lost during the 20 months of very very dire times.
The arts didn’t fare that much better. The smaller groups did what little they could; the Art Gallery and the Performing Arts Centre survived because they were publicly funded.
Two groups have reappeared. Drury Lane Theatre has a production (I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE) on the go June 3rd to the 26th; and and KooGle has a production that hits the stage this evening and runs to the 29th.
 Matthew Pichocki as the baker with his wife KooGle is in the finals stages of opening the curtains.
We spent some time when KooGle was doing a bit of a dress rehearsal and a run through of Into the Woods Jr.
Matthew Pichocki explained the Jr to me. “The full length play gets a little dark during the second half, we are doing the shorter version – thus the Jr.
The story is about a husband and wife who want children; there is a wicked witch and four things the couple has to do to have the witch remove the curse that was on the house of the couple that wanted children They were bakers.
In order to have the baby they wanted the baker and his wife had to go into the woods and find four things.
 That cow is certainly white A cow as white as a milk
A cape as red as blood
Hair as yellow as corn
Slippers that gleamed of gold
The baker and his wife meet these demands – there was a time limit and that is the mystery of the story that those in the theatre will take home with them.
KooGle has been had an active youth program since 2017. They didn’t have a home for a number of years – just before the pandemic took over the lives of all of us they found as location that was perfect and once they felt the worst of the pandemic was behind them they signed the lease.
 Putnam County Spelling Bee was very well received. In the past KooGle has put on some exceptionally fine work – their version of the Putnam County Spelling Bee was very well received.
During the pandemic KooGle actually pulled off doing Cinderella virtually. Perfect, certainly not but as Matthew explained it was an experience and was more like a movie – a lot of the acting ended up on the cutting room floor.
 Leslie and Christopher Gray In January KooGle put out a call for people who wanted to take part in a theatrical production. There were then classes in dance, voice and singing.
These were classes followed by a workshop out of which came the selecting of the cast and crew for Into the Woods.
 A dress rehearsal means finding something that fits. Leslie Gray and her husband Christopher were professional performers who thought Burlington needed a place where young people could train and take part in theatrical productions.
The young people that become part of a production quickly become a team where they support each other – watching them as the wait for their turn in a rehearsal you see how they work together – they learn, they are in a safe environment and they have fun.
 In the worlds of theatre you eat when you can. The students range from 8 to 18; some have been with KooGle since 2017. KooGle was formed in 2008. Several are looking at careers in theatre others want to teach drama at high school.
The next opportunity for new students to get a taste for theatre is a workshop in June.
We will tell you more about that event.
 By Staff
May 26th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
There weren’t that many participants taking part in the survey the city put out and then withdrew two days later but the data they collected does have merit.
The city wanted to know how people felt about the city selling a sports field to the Board of Education, and how people felt about the city buying the Bateman High school site and then renting part of what they bought to Brock University.
The results will surprise a lot of people – especially the ward 2 councillor who thought selling the sports field was close to a travesty.
The results:
There is some additional data if this kind of thing turns your crank Click HERE for that data.
 By Stephen Atcheler
May 27th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
With all the dating sites out in the world, finding the right ones can definitely be a headache. You have Emo dating sites, swingers dating sites, music dating sites, and, of Bourse, sites where people are looking to find a sugar daddy. But how do you parse through this veritable buffet of options without getting overwhelmed? Not everyone is cut out for the informational overload.
Thankfully, there are a few dating sites out there that have managed to cut through the noise and become recognizable names in the online dating scene. Here is a list of the best dating apps and sites in Toronto for 2022.
1. Tinder
If you’re not familiar with Tinder, it’s basically the Wild West of dating apps. It’s a free app that allows you to set up a profile with some pictures and a little bit about yourself. You can then browse other people’s profiles and swipe left or right depending on whether or not you’re interested. If you both swipe right, you’re a match and can start messaging each other.
There are definitely some downsides to using Tinder, especially if you’re looking for something more serious than a hookup. The biggest one is that it’s geared towards people who are looking for more casual relationships, so if you’re looking for something more long-term, it might not be the best option. Additionally, because it’s free to use, there are a lot of fake profiles and people who aren’t really looking for anything serious.
2. Bumble
Bumble is very similar to Tinder in that it’s a free app you can use to set up a profile and browse other people’s profiles. The main difference is that on Bumble, only women can initiate contact with men. This is meant to empower women and put them in control of the conversation.
Like Tinder, there are some downsides to using Bumble. First of all, because it’s geared towards women initiating contact, there are fewer men on the app than on Tinder. Additionally, the pool of potential matches is smaller because it’s a newer app and doesn’t have as many users as some of the others.
 The app uses your Facebook profile to connect you 3. Coffee Meets Bagel
Coffee Meets Bagel is another dating app that’s similar to Tinder in that it’s free to use and you can browse other people’s profiles. The main difference is that on Coffee Meets Bagel, you only get one match per day. This match is chosen for you based on your profile and the interests you have in common with the other person.
If you’re looking for a more low-key dating experience, Coffee Meets Bagel might be the right option for you. Because you only get one match per day, you’re less likely to feel overwhelmed by the number of potential matches. Additionally, because the app uses your Facebook profile to connect you with potential matches, you know that they’re at least somewhat compatible with you before even starting to talk to them.
 There are signs and symbols that express the sincerity 4. OkCupid
OkCupid is a dating app that’s been around for a while. It’s free to use, and you can browse other people’s profiles and message them if you’re interested. The app also has a paid subscription option that gives you some extra features, like being able to see who likes you and messaging people without having to match with them first.
OkCupid is a great option if you’re looking for a more serious relationship. Because it’s been around for a while, it has a large pool of potential matches. Additionally, the paid subscription option gives you some extra features that can be helpful in finding a compatible match.
5. Hinge
Hinge is a dating app that’s similar to Tinder and Bumble in that it’s free to use, and you can browse other people’s profiles. The main difference is that on Hinge, you’re only matched with people who are Facebook friends of friends. This is meant to create more meaningful connections and relationships.
Hinge is a great option if you’re looking for something more serious than a hookup. Because you’re only matched with people who are Facebook friends of friends, you know that they’re at least somewhat compatible with you. Additionally, the app has a paid subscription option that gives you some extra features, like being able to see who likes you.
 The surprise and the exhilaration last a lifetime 6. eHarmony
eHarmony is a dating site that’s been around for a while. It’s a bit more expensive than some of the other options, but it’s also geared towards people who are looking for more serious relationships. The site uses a personality test to match you with potential partners and then sends you compatible matches on a regular basis.
eHarmony is a great option if you’re looking for a serious relationship. Because the site uses a personality test to match you with potential partners, you know that they’re at least somewhat compatible with you. Additionally, the app has a paid subscription option that gives you some extra features, like being able to see who likes you.
Conclusion
As with everything, you need to be diligent when choosing a dating app or site. Consider what you’re looking for in a relationship and choose an option that best suits your needs. With so many different options available, you’re sure to find one that’s right for you!
 By Staff
May 26, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) – 3 District Street Crime Unit has concluded a drug trafficking investigation in Burlington. Three male suspects were arrested as a result of the week-long investigation.
 On May 25, 2022, a Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) search warrant was executed at a residence in Burlington. Two suspects were arrested outside the residence in a parking lot while the third was arrested inside the premise.
Yahya Yusuf (31) of Burlington has been charged with:
- Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
- Knowledge of Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
- Possession of a Prohibited Firearm with Ammunition
- Careless Storage of a Firearm
- Tamper with Serial Number
- Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose (2 counts)
- Possession of a Weapon Obtained by the Commission of an Offence
- Careless Storage of Ammunition
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000 (2 counts)
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5000
- Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine (2 counts), Fentanyl and Oxycodone
- Breach Release Order
Abdirahman Adan (23) of Burlington has been charged with:
- Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
- Knowledge of Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
- Possession of a Prohibited Firearm with Ammunition
- Careless Storage of a Firearm
- Tamper with Serial Number
- Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose (2 counts)
- Possession of a Weapon Obtained by the Commission of an Offence
- Careless Storage of Ammunition
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000 (2 counts)
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5000
- Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine (2 counts), Fentanyl and Oxycodone
Ali Mohamud Ali (28) of Calgary has been charged with:
- Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
- Knowledge of Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
- Possession of a Prohibited Firearm with Ammunition
- Careless Storage of a Firearm
- Tamper with Serial Number
- Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose
- Possession of a Weapon Obtained by the Commission of an Offence
- Careless Storage of Ammunition
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5000
- Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine, Fentanyl and Oxycodone
- Obstruct Police
All three accused were held in custody pending a bail hearing.
As a result of the search warrant, the following items were seized (see attached photo):
- A loaded Colt 38 Special Revolver with the serial number partially defaced
- 41 rounds of ammunition
- 147.4 grams of cocaine
- 29.2 grams of fentanyl
- 76 oxycodone pills
- Over $11,000 cash
- 2 stolen licence plates
- 7 digital scales
- 9 cellular telephones
- 1 kg of cutting agent
- 1 flick knife
 Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Det. Scott Heyerman of the 3 District Street Crime Unit at 905-825-4777 ext. 2342.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. “See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.
 By Staff
May 26th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
They are back – like everyone else in the business of attracting a public the Koogle Theatre has survived and is putting an event on stage – first performance is on Thursday.
 By Pepper Parr
May 26th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Word that we hear is that the Progressive Conservatives are getting some serious blow back on the decision to pull their candidate from debates as they campaign door to door.
The decision to pull the candidates from public debates was decided by the people running the provincial campaign.
In Burlington the PC’s stayed away from the Chamber of Commerce debate – which was surprising. If there was ever a venue that was tailor made for the PC’s – it has to be the Chamber of Commerce.
The traditional focus for the Conservative community has always been – respect for law and order; being responsible for yourself; financially prudent and supporting the social institutions.
This country has had some great Conservative leaders.
 Good graphics, a strong visual presence – all things a well funded campaign can afford.. That strong voice they advertise turned out to be close to mute. In my short interview with Nicole Pierre I was impressed, especially with her empathy for people and the problems they face.
She didn’t bring much in the way of political experience to the table but she struck me as being sharp enough to pick up how the Legislature works and how to serve the community she would represent.
I find myself wondering how she felt about being told that she would not be taking part in debates. I didn’t see Natalie as a woman who does what she is told to do if she thinks it is wrong or stupid.
In the event that she wins – and it is a very tight race in Burlington, how does she present herself as a person who is there to serve when she wasn’t prepared to let the voters hear what she had to say – even if she was just parroting the party line.
Elections are a part of our culture for which we have paid a very high price for – the cost in lives is set out in stone at the cenotaph with the names of the men who were lost.
To not campaign and take a sincere part in an election – the event those men gave their lives for is an insult.
 Natalie Pierre – a decent candidate; someone who they could be proud of; someone who would reflect their values. Might have been false advertising. Will we be seeing Natalie Pierre and the rest of the Burlington Progressive Conservative Party leadership on November 11th with poppy’s in their lapels?
The people who went along with the decision to keep the candidate in a bubble should be ashamed of themselves.
Should the PC’s win it will be due to some sharp practices that will find their way into how a Progressive government performs.
There is a woman, a senior, that I cross paths with from time to time, who used to complain about how big an embarrassment Jane McKenna was, hoping that the party would come up with a decent candidate.
This time around they found a decent candidate; someone who they could be proud of; someone who would reflect their values. I wonder what the senior will say to me when we cross paths next ?
Are elections now just about winning with maybe a wink at values and the hope that the voters won’t understand what the politicians are saying. The issues are complex – the responsibility is to explain them – which is something I thought Natalie Pierre was going to be good at.
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
May 26th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The Tory vote seems to be coming out of the woods.
What was a very tight race appears to be opening up.
The undecided and not voting are very high.
Undecided may be waiting to be convinced.
The number not planning on voting is disturbing – as a % of the number of people interviewed amounts to 18.6% When you combine the Not voting with the undecided the number is 36.9%
We started asking the undecided if they were leaning towards a political party of candidate – there was no pattern that we could discern
The Gazette will be out surveying every second day until May 31st.
By Staff
May 26th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Early in April , the Halton Regional Police Service responded to an emergency scam in progress at an address in Milton.
This type of fraud, often referred to as the “grandparent scam”, has been an ongoing trend across Halton Region resulting in dozens of community members being victimized.
 Sergo Laine The suspect was expected to show up to collect $12,000 cash fromthe victim for the alleged and fabricated bail of her nephew, a theme often used by fraudsters throughout the GTA.
The suspect did show up and was placed under arrest by investigators and charged with Fraud Over $5000.
This same suspect was investigated further following this initial arrest, as it was believed that he was committing further fraudulent offences.
On May 19, 2022, investigators executed search warrants at a hotel in Mississauga and a Toronto storage facility. This same suspect was once again placed under arrest, and charged with 7 additional Criminal Code and Controlled Drug and Substance Act charges.
Sergo Laine (32 years) of Montreal is charged with:
• Fraud Over $5000
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000
• Possession of a Controlled Substance (3 counts)
• Possession of Identity Documents
• Possession of Counterfeit Mark
Laine was released on an Undertaking.
Police believe there may be other victims.
Investigators are asking anyone who has information or has been victimized by Laine to contact the Regional Fraud Unit – Intake Office at 905-825-4777 ext. 8741.
 Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. “See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca
Emergency scams
These types of scams typically involve the victim receiving an unsolicited phone call regarding a loved one being in distress. The perpetrators falsely identify themselves as a loved one, or impersonate a police officer and/or other participants of the criminal justice system (such a lawyers, bailiffs, and “bondsman”), falsely claiming that the loved one is in police custody as a result of a specific incident.
They request a larger sum of money to have the supposed loved one released from custody, or to pay for associated bills/fines accrued as a result of the alleged incident. The funds requested can be in the form of a direct cash payment, bank transfers, various gift cards, and digital currency. While the scam is ongoing, and the payments are being made, the perpetrators will on occasion use the threat of a fictitious “gag order” to prevent the victim from discussing the matter with anyone else.
Tips to protect yourself
• Attempt to verify the caller’s identity – do not volunteer any information, and further ask very specific probing questions about the caller.
•Request to call back the initial caller – then independently find the number of the police service (or other purported agency in question) and call them directly to clarify the situation. If unsure, call your local police service and ask them for assistance.
• Attempt to directly call the loved one in question and clarify the matter with them.
Remember – Fraudsters will count on your good will to act quickly and help a loved one. Take your time and use above noted tips to protect yourself.
 By Dennis Savoy
March 24th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Betting has existed since ancient times and there are more and more users every day.
It is a hobby of many people who like to taste their happiness and hope to win.
Over the years, the list of things to bet on has been expanding. Most often it is in a sport, but there are also events outside the sport, such as the winner of the Eurovision Song Contest and similar.
 The Eurovision Song Contest is an event that has millions wagering on the outcome – online With the development of betting and the expansion of betting offers, it is to be expected that the betting industry will not stop there and will work on it on a daily basis. With this hard work we got online betting. What is online betting?
Online betting is one of the novelties in the world of betting and it greatly facilitates our daily betting. Online betting can be accessed from many device that supports internet connection.
Many bookmakers have online betting on offer and their offer is large. There we have many games in which we can participate to bet and hope to win. They are working on the development and improvement of these games every day, and over the years of online betting, much progress has been made in design, graphics of games that look much more realistic today than before and troubleshooting bugs that are decreasing day by day.
In addition to the efforts invested in the development of online betting, we are also working on increasing the number of users and promotion. Today we can often see many advertisements on the internet that promote online betting and its benefits but this is not the only way to promote.
 Online casino bonuses are today an everyday part of online betting where the user receives certain bonuses in the form of free money or spins that they will use in betting and potentially make a certain profit. Casino bonuses are a great form of promotion on the marketing side because they attract new and reward old loyal customers. Casino bonuses of course vary from bookmaker to bookmaker and we need to be careful here.
It is necessary to check all the conditions well before we agree to certain bonuses in order to avoid possible problems. For the best casino bonus there are many sites on the internet but don’t miss the only online casino bonus guide you need.
When we find the best betting offer it is usually necessary to sign up and add a bank account for winnings. After that we can leave the benefits of online betting and hope for winnings.
Benefits of online betting
-
- Accessibility
- Large selection of bookmakers and games
- Facilitated the process of payment and withdrawal of money
- Online bonuses
Online betting is growing very fast and there are more and more bookmakers offering it. As with everything on the internet, we should be careful and research each option well before betting, but after everything is over, an exciting adventure awaits us for sure.
By Pepper Parr
May 26th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
What will the province look like on Friday June 3rd?
Put a different way – How bad could it be?
Province wide the polls say that Doug Ford will be returned at Premier.
Who will form the Opposition?
The polls again suggest that the New Democrats will continue to be the Opposition
 Steve Del Duca: Risks losing his seat – Liberals will have to find a new leader. What the polls are also telling is that Steve Del Duca may not win his own seat leaving the Opposition leaderless.
The New Democrats will be deeply disappointed about not being able to form a government and will need to think about their leadership.
The leadership of the Liberals will have to come out of whatever they have in the way of members sitting in the Legislature.
Will this happen?
The Gazette survey results show a very tight race
Polls are never accurate – but they are an indicator.
 By Staff
May 26th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
For the past three weeks the Gazette has had a reporter out on the streets of the city asking about the provincial election.
He asked the following xx questions
Question 1: Do you know there’s going to be an election in June?
Question 2: Do you know anything about the issues?
Question 3: Are you going to vote (if not, why)?
Question 4: Would you like to say who you will vote for?
The number of undecided responses was higher than we expected – so we have added a 5th questions asking people is there a political party they are favouring
The latest results are set out below.
By Staff
May 23rd, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Data collected locally suggests that the Burlington seat is still very much up for grabs.
Jason Octavo, a Sheridan College Journalism student about to graduate this year, has been spending hours outside supermarket and LCBO stores – inside malls and in Spencer Smith Park. North and south of the QEW.
By the time the survey work is completed he will have interviewed more than 750 asking the following questions:
Question 1: Do you know there’s going to be an election in June?
Question 2: Do you know anything about the issues?
Question 3: Are you going to vote (if not, why)?
Question 4: Would you like to say who you will vote for?
We have added a 5th question: Is there a political party or candidate that you are favouring?
Are the numbers relevant, do they mean anything? They are certainly quite different than the province wide numbers where the Progressive Conservatives have a clear lead.
That province wide sentiment is quite a bit different than what is taking place in Burlington.
 Impressive data – can the solid 2018 results be improved – enough to win the seat? The decision making in Burlington is informed by the significant number of New Blue Party signs that are showing up – especially in the rural part of the city; the size of the Muslim vote and if it will turn out for the Liberal candidate. And will the NDP vote locally continue to grow from the record vote level in the last provincial election. They have raised more money than ever this time around and have a spacious office set up with a motivated team of volunteers.
The Progressive Conservatives did themselves no favours when they pulled their candidates province wide from taking part in debate or interviews.
They see themselves as leading and don’t want to have a candidate say something that will blow up in their faces. There is very little being said by PC candidates on social media.
Everything comes from the Premier and so far none of the other candidates have been able to lay a glove on him.
Will voters be disgusted with the way they have been treated? Not the base vote for certain. Winning is all that counts. The voter be damned.
Octavo will be in the field up to May 31st – if there is a break in the news flow on something that could shift voter sentiments he will back back out until the day before the election.
 By Pepper Parr
May 22th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
There is just something not quite right about the sale and purchase of the Bateman High School property.
It is monumentally expensive.
The paucity of public information resulted in the sanctioning of a council member based on a complaint by two other Council members.
Councillor Stolte was docked five days’ pay for talking publicly about something that was discussed in a CLOSED session of Council – a no no in the municipal world.
Councillors Nisan and Galbraith filed a complaint to the Integrity Commissioner.
Then there is an announcement that there will be a l and swap – the city would sell the sports field to the west of Central High school – the proceeds of that sale would go towards paying for the Bateman property owned by the public Board of Education.
The city announces that there will be public engagement – before that a short survey.
Short survey has a short life – the cit y pulls the survey and provides some detail on a public meeting.
That gets the social media close to the boiling point. Those networks are going crazy over the Bateman high school and Central High school sports field matter,
Lynne Crosby, a frequent Tweeter, makes a comment – the city picks up on it …
… then ward 5 Councillor Paul Sharman puts in a few words.
So failure is a possibility?
By Staff
May 20th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
This hurts!
Average rent for all Canadian properties listed on Rentals.ca in April was $1,821 per month, an annual increase of 9 per cent from $1,676 per month in April 2021, according to the Rentals.ca and Bullpen Research & Consulting latest National Rent Report.
The April 2021 rent figure was the lowest national average rate over the last four years, with the monthly results in 2022 close to pre-pandemic rent levels. April 2022’s average rent is about $25 lower than the levels experienced the same month in 2020 and 2019.
Burlington came in third on the list of 35 cities for average monthly rent in April for a one-bedroom home at $2,017 and eighth for average monthly rent for a two-bedroom at $2,261.
 Rates are high, inventory very tight – the rental market is likely to stay this way for a while. Year over year, average monthly rent in April for a one-bedroom in Burlington was up 15.9 per cent and up 11.8 per cent for a two-bedroom.
Toronto finished second on the list of 35 cities for average monthly rent in April for a one-bedroom at $2,065 and for average monthly rent for a two-bedroom at $2,849.
Year over year, average monthly rent in April for a one-bedroom in Toronto was up 13 per cent and up 17.2 per cent for a two-bedroom. Month over month, average rent in Toronto was up 2.1 per cent for a one-bedroom and up 2.6 per cent for a two-bedroom.
Average rents in Toronto and Etobicoke for condo rentals and apartments were up annually by 15 per cent to $2,303 and $2,173 respectively;
Hamilton average rents increased 11 per cent to $1,790; and Mississauga, and London rents rose 7 per cent to $2,070 and $1,581, respectively.
Ontario had the second highest average rents at $2,093 per month (median: $2,000).
Ben Myers, president of Bullpen Research & Consulting said:“Average rental rates for single-family homes, townhouses and condominium apartments have experienced strong month-over-month growth as demand increases for higher-end properties. Big city rents are surging with Vancouver and Toronto leading the way. A return to the office, high gas prices, and rising interest rates are all fuelling demand for centrally located rental offerings.”
By Staff
May 20th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
If you make it through the provincial election there is light hearted relieve for you.
Burlington’s Drury Lane Theatre is bringing I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE to the stage.
The production begins Friday, June 3rd and shows continue through Sunday, June 26th.
I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE is the longest running off-Broadway revue in history. This celebration of the mating game takes on the truths and myths behind the contemporary conundrum known as “the relationship.” Act I explores the journey from dating and waiting to love and marriage, while Act II reveals the agonies and triumphs of in-laws and newborns, trips in the family car and pick-up techniques of the geriatric set. This hilarious revue pays tribute to those who have loved and lost, to those who have fallen on their face at the portal of romance, and to those who have dared to ask, “Say, what are you doing Saturday night?”
 Invite your favourite person to join you in the comfortable cabaret setting at The Loft at Drury Lane on New Street. Enjoy a beverage from our licensed bar while watching the show and celebrate your own “perfect” relationships! Tickets are on sale at www.DruryLane.ca and by calling our Box Office at 905-637-3979.
By Pepper Parr
May 18th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
 Fantastic Negrito – will be part of the summer Sound of Music program.
We’ve not heard much from the Sound of Music people.
One of their acts – Fantastic Negrito plays on June 17th
He is a three-time Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, musician, and activist
Fantastic Negrito (neé Xavier Dphrepaulezz) unveils his forthcoming studio album and film White Jesus Black Problems, out June 3 via Storefront Records. The multimedia project is based on the true story of Negrito’s seventh-generation white Scottish grandmother (Grandma Gallamore), an indentured servant, living in a common-law marriage with his seventh-generation African American enslaved grandfather (Grandfather Courage); in open defiance of the racist, separatist, laws of 1750s colonial Virginia.
With a pedigree like that – this might be someone very different and interesting to listrn to.
You get your chance – he is on stage June 17th, 2022
 By Staff
May 18th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The City of Burlington is looking for residents’ feedback on a proposed land transaction with the Halton District School Board (HDSB) and leasing arrangements with the HDSB and Brock University for the City’s planned acquisition of the Robert Bateman High School building and property.
The proposed transaction with the HDSB would see the City transfer ownership of approximately five acres of City owned-land (sports field at Central High School) to the HDSB as a component of a land exchange for the Robert Bateman site.
 The sports field beside Central High school is owned by the city. Selling it to the school board frees up some cash that can be applied to the purchase of the Bateman location. It is a complex deal with a number of players that may not have had the benefit of some some take our time second thought. Some are wondering – why the rush? One pressure point is that Brock wants to be in the space they are renting – when? Tight timeline. The City owned-land in question is located near Burlington Central High School and includes the high school football field and running track.
The HDSB has wanted to own the sports field beside Burlington Central High School for some time; that desire is consistent with the HDSB’s long-term intention to continue operating Burlington Central High School as a school. This land exchange component will advance the City’s efforts to secure the Robert Bateman site in continued public ownership, ensuring that the Robert Bateman site is available for continued educational and community-oriented uses.
Feedback will also be sought on proposed leasing agreements with the HDSB that wants to use some of the space and Brock University that wants to locate one of its departments in Burlington.
Both leases are expected to be long-term but not to exceed 25 years.
Burlington City Council directed staff to gather feedback from the public on these proposals. Public feedback can be provided at the City’s online engagement portal, Get Involved Burlington. The time frame for getting sufficient public feedback is short.
 The site is a big one; the plans to re-purpose the location from a local high school to a multi-use site that would pull together local residents, a unit of Brock University, a public library and a number of gymnasiums with lots of space left over. A considerable amount of controversy is expected from the downtown community where there isn’t all that much open space to begin with. The 100th anniversary event was planned to take place on the sports field in June of 2023. Will that space still be available to the public once it is in school board hands?
Any thought of a community centre with a pool in that part of town would be lost. With three towers planned for Ghent and Brant, a short walk from the sports field, residents wonder if they are going to be locked out of creating more in the way of public amenities.
Click for the Link to Get Involve
This engagement opportunity will be open to Burlington residents until June 13, 2022.
Following public input, staff will report back to Burlington Council with a final report and recommendations at the June 21, 2022 Council meeting.
Some background:
In June 2021, HDSB announced that it has declared Robert Bateman High School surplus to its needs.
In December 2021, Council provided direction to staff to submit a formal offer to purchase the Robert Bateman High School site
On Feb. 3, 2022, Burlington City Council endorsed next steps to advance the potential acquisition of the Robert Bateman High School site from the HDSB.
Shortly after, also in June 2021, the City of Burlington announced that an expression of interest would be submitted to the HDSB to purchase the Robert Bateman site through a partnership with Brock University.
By Staff
May 18th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
If it worked twice – it will work a third time.
 The Drive thru worked well the past two years. Rotary will do it again on Victoria Day and plan for the traditional event in September. Canada’s Largest Ribfest, a fundraising initiative of Burlington Rotary Lakeshore, will be holding a taste of summer kickoff on Victoria Day in the Burlington Centre parking lot.
The public is invited to stop by the Burlington Centre parking lot, at 777 Guelph Line from 10am to 7pm to experience the fun and flavour from the comfort and convenience of your vehicle.
Brent Paszt, a Past President of Rotary Burlington Lakeshore, and Co-Chair ofthe Ribfest this year said: “While we are looking forward to our eventual return to Spencer Smith Park for our traditional annual Labour Day Weekend event, the need in our community remains great. So what better way for us to maintain the spirit of our Ribfest alive by delivering delicious ribs & great local entertainment and at the same time help Rotary Burlington Lakeshore support local charities in need.”
The Ribfest has a loyal following, and there has been tremendous support for our Drive-thru Ribfests the past 2 years. While we all want to be back in Spencer Smith Park at the end of summer, our guests understand the need to adapt and have embraced our drive-thru alternative.” added Jay Bridle, Co-Chair of the Ribfest this year
Guests are asked to enter Burlington Centre from the Fairview Street entrance and will remain in their vehicles for the duration of their visit. Food vendors will take orders and payment (cards preferred) and will deliver each completed order to your vehicle.
Gloves and masks will be worn by all staff, vendors, and volunteers.
Four award-winning rib teams in attendance will include Camp 31 BBQ, Billy Bones BBQ, Sticky Fingers & Uncle Sam’s BBQ Stand. Cogeco will once again be onsite offering their crowd favourite take home bbq spice to the first 1500 vehicles as well we welcome new sponsor Mosey & Mosey who will make sure your steering wheels remain ribsauce free by providing wet wipes for our guests. The event will also include live music for guests to enjoy while they wait in the comfort and safety of their vehicles.
By Staff
May 18th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
We are heading into a long weekend – people will be out and about looking for interesting things to do.
Freeman station is one of the best attractions in the city. Check it out. A past article will tell you all about the set up in the lower level of the building.
 By Pepper Parr
May 17th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
There will be a detailed report on how council and city staff will do their best to get boats into the water at the LaSalle Park Marina. For today – look at what the issues were and how Council worked their way through what is a messy problem.
The major issue was not being able to get insurance coverage.
What made their situation just that more dicey was the strike by crane operators.
One of the things that about this story is that information slips out in bits and pieces.
We did not know that the LaSalle Park Marina Association (LPMA) pays the city a license fee of $159,000 a year for the wave break. What does the city do with that money? Do they put it back into the hydro reserve fund it was taken from?
While Tim Commisso, city manager doesn’t want to operate a marina – one of the stipulations from the insurers the city uses is that the city must have control over the marina if the city insurance policy is to include the marina.
 City Solicitor Nancy Shea Nicol Council looked to City Solicitor Nancy Shea Nicol to determine just what ‘control over the marina’ means.
While the city knows a lot about policy and process the Parks and Recreation people realize that they don’t know all that much about the day to day problems that crop up at a marina.
The solution they appear to be edging towards is having all the marina volunteers become city volunteers who would then be given some training. Those volunteers would run the marina as city volunteers.
Will it fly? That depends on the strength of the relationship between the city and the insurance company. City is big big client – some wiggle room might be found.
 Another boat is hoisted out of the yard and lowered into the water as the LaSalle Park Marina opens for another season. Just not this year – mid June at the earliest. The marina is a profitable operation. They have 210 slips – with 160 of them rented – they are profitable. The longer term hope for the operation was to have 310 slips and a decent restaurant on the site.
As important to anyone is – getting the boats in the water and to do that they need to find an independent crane operator with equipment big enough to hoist those boats off their cradles and into the water.
One boat has been sold – the owner apparently can’t get his boat out of the yard it is in.
Everyone has spoken about how whatever arrangement is worked out that the city will be revenue neutral. Not a dime of public money gets put into the operation of the marina.
The LPMA turns out to have a decent reserve fund of its own. They reported that they run a profit most years – something in the order of $64,000 annually. Last year was an exception.
Given that the marina association has a reserve ward 4 Councillor Shawna Stolte wondered if the LPMA would have some of that reserve used to secure any expenses the city did run up?
City treasurer Joan Ford told Council that any expenses that did crop up would be recorded in a new, separate account. What kind of expense might be recorded in that account?
Council learned that the city was hiring outside legal council to advise on what the legal issues were. The cost of those lawyers would be one that the city would pay and look to the LPMA for reimbursement.
Stolte put forward an amendment to a motion that was being considered. She wanted some of that LPMA reserve money set aside as a security for those unexpected expenses. It went nowhere – Stolte couldn’t get a seconder. When asked if he would second the motion Councillor Galbraith took a pass. Smart man – no need for him to rustle the feathers of an influential group in his ward.
The Gazette has learned that one of the two slip and fall law suits took place on the docks late at night.
We don’t yet know just who made the claim and what the particulars of the claim are.
We do know that $97,500 has been spent by the LPMA defending the claim with a settlement on either of the claims nowhere in sight.
What is that phrase ”What do you do with a drunken sailor…”
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