Current and Former Youth in Care Now Eligible for Tuition Bursary at Sheridan

By Staff

March 8th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Sheridan College has announced a bursary program that will enable up to 20 eligible students to pursue post secondary studies this September.

The program is for youth currently or formerly in the care of child welfare, and is available to students of all ages pursuing their first post secondary credential and who meet the eligibility requirements.

This is a partnership with the Child Welfare Political Action Committee (PAC), and the Sheridan Bursary for Ontario Youth

“Post secondary education transforms lives and facilitating access to it is foundational to Sheridan’s mission as a leading educational institution and a responsible community partner,” said Dr. Janet Morrison, President and Vice Chancellor. “Sheridan is committed to delivering on this promise through an investment in thoughtful, long-term and systemic solutions, like this bursary.”

Sheridan has worked collaboratively for several years with local Peel and Halton Children’s Aid Societies and the Peel-Dufferin-Halton Ontario Education Championship Team to help youth currently or formerly in extended society care reach their post secondary and career goals.

Getting disadvantaged youth into a line like this becomes possible with the right financial support.

“This bursary is a significant milestone in Sheridan’s ongoing commitment to supporting vulnerable young community members by removing barriers to education,” added Sheldon Pereira, Vice Provost Student Experience and Enrolment Management. “We are delighted to join the Child Welfare PAC on their mission to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to work towards a bright and promising future.”

According to the Child Welfare PAC, there are approximately 12,000 young people currently in care in Ontario, and another 100,000 who have recently transitioned out of care. From age 18 to 21, those in care receive an allowance of approximately $875 a month. When this support ends, pursuing a post secondary education becomes more difficult.

Prospective students can learn more about Sheridan’s available scholarships and bursaries online HERE.

 

 

 

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Developers celebrate 80 years of growth and promise to be part of the solution to the housing crisis

By Staff

March 8th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The West End Home Builders’ Association (WE HBA) held its Annual Industry Luncheon at the Carmen’s Banquet Centre. With more than 320 attendees from the homebuilding and construction industries, WE HBA successfully held its first Industry Luncheon in two years.

This is the event the Mayor skipped out of a council meeting to attend.

Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Steve Clarke

The event’s Keynote Speaker, The Honourable Steve Clark Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, delivered strong remarks about all levels of government needing to take coordinated action to address the housing crisis.

We need to make it easier and less expensive to build all types of housing faster, so that hard-working Ontarians can find a home that meets their needs and budget ” said Steve Clark. It’s crucial that all levels of government take coordinated, pro-housing action to make it easier for all Ontarians to find the home that’s right for them.” Minister Clark also talked about the urgent need to identify and implement additional measures to address the housing supply crisis.

While addressing the assembly, WE HBA President, Bianca Bruzzese updated the members on the Association’s growth and transformation over the past two years. Our membership has thrived. Corporate support from our partners is greater than ever. And we have seen significant growth and diversification within our builder member group, providing an excellent representation of the homes that our members build for this Community and the homes that buyers aspire to purchase.” said WE HBA President Bianca Bruzzese.

The Association’s President also discussed the housing supply crisis and the importance of providing a safe and accessible community for our children and generations to come. “We, as an Association, want to collaborate with all stakeholders and all levels of government to provide attainable housing options for home buyers today and for generations to come. We need to build 1.5 million homes over the next 10 years. So, let’s work together to get it done.” said President Bianca Bruzzese.

This year the West End Home Builders’ Association is also celebrating the 80th anniversary of its founding in 1942. WE HBA was formed in a time period when new home growth in the Hamilton-Halton region exploded and the need for a professional association that would establish high standards for new home building was prominent. “It was fantastic to be back in person with our city builders at the WE HBA Industry Luncheon.” said Mike Collins-Williams, CEO, West End Home Builders’ Association. “Our keynote speaker, the Honourable Steve Clark, carried a strong message to the industry and our municipal partners that we need to tackle this housing crisis by making it easier to build all types of housing in communities across Ontario. WE HBA was also proud to recognize Diane Murray as this years Hall of Fame inductee for her years of dedication to the industry.”

320 builders packed the meeting

The West End Home Builders’ Association (WE HBA) is the voice of the land development, new housing and professional renovation industries in Hamilton and Halton Region. The WE HBA represents nearly 300 member companies made up of all disciplines involved in land development and residential construction, including: builders, developers, professional renovators, trade contractors, consultants, and suppliers. The residential construction industry employed over 21,000 people, paying $1.3 billion in wages, and contributed over $2.3 billion in investment value within the Hamilton Census Metropolitan Area in 2019.

 

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Why were access fees waived - the public didn't see a dime of the savings - money went to telephone company

By Staff

March 7th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

On March 3 a city Standing Committee approved a report that  waived permit fees in the amount of $33,800. for improved internet services for north Burlington.

This is basically how accessible internet access will be.

The improved service in north Burlington is a very important need to those residents. These improvements are being funded by the federal and provincial governments. They did not request municipal assistance or funding.

A Burlington resident has a problem with the decision pointing out that on January 25 2022 the city held an information session for this work. I attended.

The two contractors (Bell Canada and Internet Access Solutions) have not formally requested any financial assistance from the city. The contractors have been working to obtain permits from the City, Region, and Conservation Halton.

Fibre optic cable is being laid all over north Burlington giving the residents much needed internet access.

A  Burlington resident who asks not to be identified thinks “the Mayor/council appear to want some credit for the improved internet access. Must be an election  year.”

“The $33,800 given away is monies that we the taxpayer will have to make up in the 2023 current budget from tax dollars. ( Sounds like Rob Ford and the license plates) This expenditure should have been accounted for in the 2022 current budget if council wanted to participate.

“Sounds like bonusing to me.

“Do not blame the contractors for…. getting something for nothing.”

The question here is:  Why are the taxpayers waiving fees that would have been paid by Bell Canada and Internet Access Solutions, the two companies installing hi-speed broadband service in rural Burlington.

 

 

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Traditional Ukrainian dinner - sold as Take Out only on March 25th

By Staff

March 7th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

A massive banner made up of the Ukrainian flag colours displayed at the Rally on the weekend.

This is about as Ukrainian as you can get.

A Sausage and Perogie dinner – takes place on March 25th – Take Out only.

Take out only is a pity – it is a fund raiser but it would be something else to take part in a large hall filled with people sitting at tables eating good Ukranian food with traditional music piped into the room.

There is a war going on in their country – they need all the money they can get and they need all the support we can give then.

These people are afraid, courageous yes – but afraid about what is going to happen to their families and friends who cannot get out or who have chosen to stay and fight.

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Changes in transit schedule - effective March 13th

By Staff

March 7th  2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Effective Sunday, March 13, 2022, Burlington Transit is

      • Increasing service on routes 6 and 10
      • Improving connections on routes 1, 3 and 12
      • Aligning route 48 to school bell times

Schedule information

Overview of Service

Peak service is between 5:30 to 9 a.m. and 3 to 7 p.m.

For more information or to get help, contact BT Customer Service at contactbt@burlington.ca, 905-639-0550

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Koogle looking to cast two roles in 'Into the Woods' production

By Staff

March 7th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Another production, another opportunity for young people to learn if the stage is where they were meant to be.

Into the Woods is a 2014 American musical fantasy film directed by Rob Marshall, and adapted to the screen by James Lapine from his and Stephen Sondheim’s 1986 Broadway musical of the same name.

The graphic below tells the whole story.

 

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Mayor really wanted to hear what the Minister of Housing was going to tell the development industry - convinces Committee Chair to recess for a couple of hours.

By Pepper Parr

March 7th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

It was a small item at the very end of the agenda for the Standing Committee meeting last Thursday.

11:40 a.m. (recessed). 2:30 p.m. (reconvened)

Those watching the web cast had been advised that the agenda would be revised – that usually happens when there is a CLOSED Session of Council and the city shifts things around to accommodate any outside people taking part.

We actually slipped up on this one – rather than wait and listen to the Chair read into the record what part of the Municipal Act was being used to go into Closed meeting we logged out expecting to return at 2:30.

As committee Chair Kelvin Galbraith had the authority to recess a meeting – the standard is to get agreement from council members. Mayor Meed Ward and Councillor Galbraith share the Red Carpet Task Force work – they work well together.

Chair Kelvin Galbraith had advised viewers that there would be a break from 11:30 to 2:30

There were two other important items on the agenda: leaf collection and a revision to the Private Tree Bylaw – always contentious issues in Burlington.

Turns out – there was no closed session

Council members switched venues and went to the West End Home Builders Association event at which the Minister of Housing was speaking to the people who give council all kinds of grief.

Was Mayor Marianne Meed Ward blushing when she met with the Premier at a Joseph Brant Hospital event?

No word yet from anyone on just what was said during the event.  Our source said there was some expectation that the Premier might show up.  Doug Ford usually takes every opportunity he can to talk to developers.

We understand that Council Sharman attended as well.

What bothered at least one council member was that even though two members of Council (and possibly three) left the meeting there was still a quorum (4 out of the seven members constitute a quorum) and the meeting could have continued.

Chair Galbraith told the Gazette that anything to do with trees in Burlington should have the attention of every member of Council.  It was his call to make, which he did.

 

 

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People gather publicly for the first time in years

By Pepper Parr

March 7th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

When people gather in public places there is always an interesting dynamic.

Some people are very earnest in what they say and do; others are quite passive – just there to see what’s taking place.

Pete Ward – Mayor’s husband, was on hand to take pictures and make new friends.

Orysia Foster nee Nebesny., wearing a bright headdress and full Ukrainian costume

Some of the people who were in front of City Hall Sunday afternoon caught the attention of our camera lens.

The strikingly attractive Ukrainian women in full cultural garb were everywhere.

The Mayor’s husband was taking pictures and making new friends.

The Mayor was mixing with people – fully engaged in conversation with some.

The leadership from within the Ukrainian community was issuing orders and getting flags up, donations boxes in place.

Mayor Marianne Meed Ward in conversation with a resident during the Ukrainian Rally

It was a place to do a little politicking, to meet old friends and to be around hundreds of people and not HAVE to wear a mask.  Many did.

 

If you didn’t know where you were supposed to go – this woman, Natalia Nebesny, was making sure you did know.

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Ukrainians Rally in front of city hall

By Pepper Parr

March 6th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

They were out on the street, doing what they could to draw attention to the plight of their fellow countrymen.

They lined Brant Street smiling when horns were honked – a couple of hundred taking part in a Rally that was being repeated across the country.

The whole world knows; the whole world waits, praying that a peaceful end will be found.

For the 250 to 300 people who gathered on Brant Street – they didn’t seem to have a permit to use Civic Square and didn’t really care.

They wanted people to know and they wanted to be able to gather and draw what energy and hope was there for them.

Many of the politicians were seen – quite why the MPP was asked to speak was hard to understand. She was brief.

The priest from the Ukrainian Catholic Church said a prayer – different to see hundreds of people crossing themselves as the prayer was spoken.

He may not have fully understood the language but he was there nevertheless with his parents supporting a country he may not even know.

Orysia Foster nee Nebesny was everywhere – wearing that smile and letting is see what a Ukrainian dress looks like. So much colour.

Quite a few people wore their bright cultural clothing – one can’t call them costumes. Would that Canada had a history as colourful to display – the best we can do is a hockey sweater.

The event was put together on very very short notice by people from a part of the community who are quiet, hard working – industrious.

They take part in Canada Day fully aware of how fortunate they are to be in Canada and while their home country has had its problems, none of them thought it would come to what we are experiencing today.

The best they can do is gather, support each other and raise badly needed funds.  And hope.

 

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Halton District School Board releases findings from Student and Staff Census

By Staff

March 6th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Halton District School Board is releasing the findings of the Student and Staff Census conducted in the 2021-2022 school year in a phased approach between March – September 2022.

At this point we know how many students participated.

The release will begin with data on the identities of students and staff including language, ethnicity, race, Indigeneity, religion, gender, sexual orientation and disability.

At the March 2 Board meeting, a presentation of Phase 1 data of the Staff and Student Census was made to Trustees.

The HDSB conducted the voluntary Student Census from January to June 2021, and Staff Census from April to June 2021, as required by the Anti-Racism Act, 2017 and Ontario’s Education Equity Action Plan to gather and report identity-based data. The Student Census was completed by 78 per cent of elementary students and 84 per cent of secondary students. The Staff Census was completed by 75 per cent of staff.

 

Following the release of identity data, perceptual (how students perceive their school experiences) and disaggregated data showing trends and patterns in special education, academic achievement and student experiences, will be shared between now and September 2022.

“The findings of the Student and Staff Census are intended to support every community to ensure we are meeting the needs of all students and staff in the HDSB,” says David Boag, Associate Director of Education for the Halton District School Board.

“This data provides us with new information about who our students and staff are to fully understand the needs of all staff, students and families. This will help support success and well-being, identify and eliminate discriminatory practices, systemic barriers and bias to provide equitable opportunities and outcomes, and allocate resources to support students and programs where the need is greatest.”

With the findings of the Student and Staff Census, the HDSB will continue to examine disparities and disproportionalities in opportunities and outcomes for students and staff, prepare action plans that align with the HDSB Multi-Year Strategic Plan 2020-2024 and continue to engage with stakeholders.

 

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Mildred Austria on Ensuring that you never get too carried away when playing casino games

By Mildred Austria

March 7th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

When it comes to casino games, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy balance, ensuring that you never get too carried away when playing. While casino games can be a lot of fun — and more accessible than ever thanks to online casino gaming — it also opens up the potential to fall into a downward spiral.

Let it be known that casino games at its core are meant to be enjoyed in moderation.

Let it be known that casino games at its core are meant to be enjoyed in moderation. Many people like to throw terms around such as gambling addiction when talking about casinos, but it doesn’t mean everyone falls victim. In fact, you can maintain a perfectly healthy balance while still enjoying your favorite casino games. All you have to do is keep a few tips in mind so you can make the most out of your opportunities.

Understanding slot machines

Perhaps one of the most crucial aspects of casino gaming involves slot machines, as it’s one of the most popular games — while also being entirely luck-based. It’s not something you can win out with skill, which means you have to be careful when going for slot machines.

One of the best ways to maintain a balance is to set a quota for slots. You can limit yourself to a certain number of tries, ensuring that you don’t get too carried away. There are also plenty of slot simulators out there that can show you just how likely you are to lose (or win) on any given day. It’s all about trying your luck, and the crucial bit is not to push your luck too hard.

Slot machines: They can be fun; they are a game of chance – set a limit and walk away when you reached that limit.

Want to win? Focus on a game

The thing about casino games is many of them are based on your skill and ability to read the table. Slots are the only ones that rely entirely on luck, which means it’s up to you to make the difference when trying other games. If you want to boost your chances, it’s better to focus on a single game to help increase your odds of winning. Learning the ins and outs of a game will help you learn about how to win, especially when watching the experts play. You can look into fantastic jackpot games at CasinoDays, giving you every opportunity to learn your favorite casino game.

 

Understanding when to fold

This hand isn’t going to take you anywhere. Fold.

Last but certainly not least, there’ll come a time when you’ll have to cut your losses and try again another day. The slots can teach you all about not pushing your luck, but the same thing applies to most other casino games. Even if you happen to be on a winning streak, it’s better to stop while you’re still on top. It can be tempting to go for even bigger winnings (and it’s not an impossibility), but you’re very likely to go home with nothing if you do. Learn when to fold, and you’ll have won half the battle.

Maintaining a healthy balance when playing casino games is all about maintaining discipline. There’s no need to listen to anyone warning you about the dangers of gambling if you know how to discipline yourself.

 

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Drury Lane Theatre Productions: on stage March 18th to April 10th

By Pepper Parr

March 5th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The pent up energy and creativity in the community is slowly coming out of the restrictions imposed by various levels of government

Drury Lane Theatrical Productions will revive their annual Music Hall at The Loft at 2269 New Street, running March 18th to April 10th, 2022.

Burlington’s favourite and longest running review show returns as the 41st Music Hall premiering on March 18th and will again showcase the great music of today and yesterday and the talents of members of our community in a celebration of Music Theatre.

From left to right: Anne Kelly, Carrie Mines, Sheila Flis Photo credit – Merise Designs

With Direction from Gregory Flis and Music Direction by Donna Dunn-Albert, you’ll laugh and sing along with our talented cast of Misses (Sheila Flis, Anne Kelly, Carrie Mines, Stacey Tiller and Jennifer Welosky) and Misters (Randy Bridge, Bill Everett, Don Montgomery, Evan Delvecchio-Williams and Chairman Gregory Flis).

Join them as they celebrate the return to live performance after months of darkened stages with recognizable classics from Adele to Sondheim to the Old Tyme British Music Halls of the Victorian era.

Drury Lane’s Artistic Director, Carol Mackenzie explains, “Artists are aching to get out of Zoom rooms and onto a real stage where they can stretch their artistic muscles and experience the true joy of performance and connection with an audience. And audiences are starving for laughter and the energy of communal experience.  There is no better place to do that than the theatre – and at Drury Lane’s Music Hall.”

An audience member described one of our past shows saying, “Music Hall is like a “kitchen party” with music you live by, love with, cry because of, laugh at and sing along with. Music Hall is a belly laugh married to a tear rolling down your cheek.”

Buy Tickets and learn more about Music Hall at www.DruryLane.ca or call our Box Office at 905-637-3979. Follow us on Instagram (DruryLaneTheatre) and Facebook for more fun and information.

Celebrating its 47th Season as Burlington’s premiere musical theatre company, Drury Lane Theatrical Productions, a charitable non-profit organization, plays an important role in Burlington’s Arts & Culture fabric. In a normal year, Drury Lane impacts over 10,000 patrons, artists, musicians and volunteers providing the joys of stage musicals.

 

 

 

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Looks like the Sound of Music is going to fill the air in June

By Staff

March 4th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

With the Covid19 restrictions being lifted and the new infections numbers and hospitalization getting lower and lower – is there not a good reason to begin thinking about the Sound of Music?

They have put out their call for volunteers which means they are working on a boffo program for the summer.

Imagine the Sound of Music floating up from the lake and lower Brant Street packed with visitors.

Click here and become part of the party

The Sound of Music takes place the week leading up to Father’s Day! This year, our Club Series kicks off on Sunday, June 12th and the festival in Spencer Smith Park runs from Thursday June 16th to Sunday June 19th, 2022

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Police Officer injured during arrest attempt

By Staff

March 2nd, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) is appealing for witnesses or dash cam footage of an arrest attempt that took place in Burlington.

On Monday February 28, 2022, at approximately 2:45 pm an officer attended a parking lot located at 963 Francis Road in Burlington (in the area of Plains Road East and the QEW).

The officer began an investigation into a stolen vehicle parked at that location, and attempted to make an arrest of a suspect inside the stolen brown pickup truck. The suspect resisted and set the truck in motion dragging the police officer a short distance. The officer suffered minor injuries. The suspect’s truck also struck a cruiser and an uninvolved parked car during its escape. Police did not pursue the pickup after it fled the parking lot.

Through further investigation police identified and arrested the suspect.

Timothy Burt (35) of Milton has been charged with the following:

  • Dangerous Operation
  • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000
  • Failure to stop after accident
  • Assaulting peace officer with weapon or cause bodily harm

Any witnesses, persons with dash cam footage of the occurrence or anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Constable Jason Lin at 905-825-4777 ext. 7355.

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.

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Council meets for three hours on an item about election rules - with no public participation

By Pepper Parr

March 2nd, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

They spent something more than two hours going through, in detail, what the rules were gong to be for anyone who planned to run in the October municipal election.

The Staff report, which didn’t appear to be part of the information package that was on the agenda, had a number of amendments.  Some were staff reported – others were not.

The documents that appeared on the screen certainly weren’t in the information package.

One of nine amendments that Mayor Meed Ward brought forward suggesting changes to municipal election rules Burlington has in place.

The item was not in the original agenda – it was described as a “walk on report” which meant that there was basically no notice to the public.

Quite how the seven members of council can decide to devote close to three hours of their time and not permit any delegations, is unknown.

Every member of council mouthed the words that they wanted to ensure there was a level playing field for people running for office who were not members of Council.

They are still at it – once they finished this item, they go into a Closed Session – yes another one!

We will provide a link to the item – disgraceful, shameful – the elected determining what the rules will be with no opportunity for new candidates to delegate.

There could have been delegations – if people had known about the meeting.  But they didn’t know – because they were not informed.

Walk on items are usually done to cover exceptional situations.

The office of the Clerk has known for a couple of years that there was going to be an election and that some changes needed to be made in the rules.

Anne Marsden has announced her plans to run for Mayor – she would have wanted to be aware of this meeting. Did she even know about it?

Anyone out there who is thinking about running for public office wants to howl with real anger over the meeting taking place.

Throughout the meeting changes were being made to the rules – line by line.  For the average person – it is of little importance – for those that want to run for office – they have a major complaint.

Can’t wait to hear what Anne Marsden has to say on this one.

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Rivers steps away from the keyboard; Connor Fraser will write a column on what his demographic thinks

By Pepper Parr

March 2, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

We bid our Contributing Editor and long-time columnist Ray Rivers adieu and hope that he travels well.

Ray Rivers has been with the Gazette for at least eight years during which time he wrote an opinion column from a small L liberal perspective. He developed a following that kept him one his toes.  He also developed within the community, a better understanding on just what an opinion piece is.  There are some who still resent some of the stand Ray took.

Ray Rivers – who won the best that Trump would win`. I’ve been buying him good Scotch ever since.

It was my pleasure to stand behind him and support him every step he took.

He made a point of providing background links to support the positions he had taken.

In the years I have worked with Ray he became a friend, a colleague – someone who made my life bigger than it was before I met him at an event and knew before he knew that he would make a fine columnist.

We will hear from Ray again – right now he takes a break as he does his best to cope with the situation in Ukraine.  Ray covered a Canadian Army training camp while he was in  Ukraine and delivered a couple of hundred Canadian flag lapel pins made a number of friends as well.  Their safety is now top of mind for him.

Ray cannot be replaced; his time with us taught our readers that there is a place for opinions in a local on-line newspaper.

which brought me to Connor Fraser, a young man I met

A number of years ago I met Connor Fraser just before he left for the University of Toronto.  I fully expected the young man to do very well.

Set out below is some detail on just how well he has done.

Connor will write a column once a month, he wanted to be more frequent but it takes time to get into the habit of writing regularly – so once a week for now.

His first column will be on social media.

Connor was born in Hamilton in 1997, 1997 is a long-time resident of Aldershot.   He attended Waterdown Montessori School, Glenview Public School, Burlington Christian Academy and Aldershot High School, graduating in 2015. Passionate about the issues facing Burlington, Connor has volunteered for several local organizations and advocated to municipal leaders on building transit oriented, walkable communities. His career goal is to help Burlington – and Canada – navigate the challenges of transitioning towards a just and inclusive low-energy economy.

Connor Fraser

In 2020, Connor completed undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto, with a BASc. in Engineering Science and a major in Electrical and Computer Engineering.

Between 2018 and 2019, he worked as a member of the technology development team at Microchip Corporation (North San Jose, California) where he contributed to the design of computer memory for FPGA chips. While pursuing engineering studies, Connor volunteered for the U of T Human Powered Vehicles Design Team as a machinist and led the design of a rollover detection system for high-speed tricycles. During the summer of 2013, 2015 and 2017, Connor lived in Quebec thanks to support from the YMCA Student Work Summer Exchange, and the Explore Program and is decently proficient in spoken French.

Connor has returned to U of T to enrol in the dual Master of Global Affairs and Master of Business Administration program and is concurrently a Certified Financial Analyst Level 2 candidate.

He is a Senior Producer with “Beyond the Headlines”, a weekly public affairs radio show that airs on CIUT 89.5FM every Monday (October – April) between 11am and 12pm. CJUT is the student run radio station at the University of Toronto.

Connor describes himself as an integrative thinker who enjoys observing parallelisms within and between various subjects such as science & engineering, finance, psychology and international relations. In his free time, Connor enjoys throwing boomerangs, playing tennis, and hanging out with his amazing sister.

You’re going to like this guy.

 

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Joseph Brant announces Changes to Designated Essential Care Partner Policy

By Staff

March 1st, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Joseph Brant Hospital recognizes the need to continue protecting the health and safety of its patients and healthcare workers as the province of Ontario enters into the next phase of its re-opening plan. While the opportunity to enter public spaces such as restaurants or sports venues is a welcome change, COVID-19 remains transmissible to vulnerable individuals receiving care in healthcare settings.

Effective March 1, Joseph Brant Hospital will be easing limits on Essential Care Partners (ECPs); however, the hospital’s COVID-19 vaccination requirement for ECPs will remain unchanged, with very limited exceptions.

We have made the following changes to the limits on ECPs in hospital, understanding the important role they play in a patient’s care, wellness and recovery:

  • Ambulatory care: One (1) ECP may attend with a patient.
  • Emergency care: The patient may identify up to two (2) ECPs. Only one (1) ECP can be at patient’s side at any time.
  • In-patient care: Two (2) ECPs are allowed at the bedside at the same time.
  • Person in labour: Two (2) ECPs are permitted including a Doula, if applicable.
  • In-patient end of life: Patients expected to pass within 72 hours are permitted up to four one-time, two-hour visits. Additional ECPs are permitted above those originally identified. Only two (2) ECPs may be at the bedside at a time.
  • Patients under 18 years of age: Two (2) parents/legal guardians are permitted to accompany the patient or attend the bedside at the same time.

All ECPs must complete a COVID-19 screening before coming to the hospital. Those who fail screening due to vaccination status will not be permitted entry with very limited exceptions. Existing personal protective equipment (PPE) policies, including masking, also remain in effect.

“As we gradually plan for the resumption of surgical care in the coming months, we will continue to place the highest priority on the safety of our patients and healthcare workers, who have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic,” said Eric Vandewall, President and CEO. “We look forward to seeing a further downward trend in the numbers of COVID-19 cases in our community, and will continue to re-evaluate our policies accordingly, with input from our patients, their families and our staff. We appreciate the understanding of our community.”

Wherever possible, patients are encouraged to connect with their loved ones by email, telephone or by video. To help keep them connected, we are offering free in-room phone and Wi-Fi.

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Beautiful Things To Do And See In Burlington, Ontario

Jeannie Lojstrup
March 2nd, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON

It’s safe to say that when people discuss tourism and Canada, they won’t mention the beautiful town of Burlington, Ontario. It’s simply not as spectacular as other destinations in Canada, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do or see there. As a matter of fact, Burlington is not supposed to be spectacular. At least not in a way most people are used to when it comes to spectacular things. If you didn’t know, Burlington is a quiet town located near the heart of the beautiful Lake Ontario. That means it has the unique ambiance and a soul of a lake town. If you’re planning a vacation in Burlington, you will experience a peaceful journey that will teach you to enjoy the little things. Here’s what to do and see in Burlington.

Spend A Wonderful Afternoon At Lowville Park

If you want to spend a peaceful day and enjoy the wonderful scenery Burlington has to offer, you should go to the Lowville Park and have a picnic with your loved one. There, you can enjoy fresh air, peace, and mild sounds of water. The beautiful nature at Lowville Park will heal your soul and you will feel like a new man or a woman at the end of the day.

The Royal Botanical Gardens – splendid any time of year.

Wander The Royal Botanical Gardens

For people who love flora, the Royal Botanical Gardens is definitely the best thing in Burlington. The wonderful site has both magical indoor and outdoor gardens and 27kms of nature trails you can explore. While you’re walking through the gardens you will have a chance to see 2,400 plant species. You have to admit, that’s a wonderful experience, especially for people who love plants. However, seeing many species of plants is not the only thing you can do at Royal Botanical Gardens. If you would like to try delicious local cuisine, you will be happy to know that there are two on-site restaurants with spectacular dishes made from vegetables and fruits from local farms. If you get tired on your walk, you should know that there is a teahouse where you can take a break and enjoy a cup of tea.

Eat Fresh And Delicious Food At Springridge Farm

If you’re looking for delicious local food, then you simply must visit the Springridge Farm. The heavenly farm is located just north of the city and it has a lot of fresh domestic produce to offer. The food is fresh because it’s seasonal. That means, if you want to eat fresh strawberries, you have to come during summer. The local men and women will tell you that the food is amazing, but that’s not the only thing this farm has. At the Springridge Farm, you can play games and experience the wonders of farm life.

A quaint little spot in the downtown core with a couple of fine restaurants and a great cigar store

Explore The Village Square

As we already said, Burlington is a small city and like most small towns, it has a beautiful and intimate village square. It’s safe to say that the square looks like it’s from another time. It’s like you strayed into a TV show that tells a story of an older and simpler life. If you want to have a peaceful afternoon you simply must go to the village square. Sit at one of the coffee shops, order a coffee, and simply breathe the wonderful ambient this town has. Admire the old buildings you won’t find anywhere else. The old houses will tell you the stories of the past life while you drink your delicious coffee.

Brant Street Pier

The Pier – pride of the city on the edge of one of the largest lakes in Canada

The most beautiful thing when it comes to Burlington has to be the Lake Ontario. The best way to experience the beautiful lake is to go to the Brant Street Pier. There, you can walk the peaceful beach and breathe the fresh air. The Brant Street Pier is beautiful any time of day, but if you want to see the spectacular beauty this town has to offer, you should go to the beach late in the afternoon. That will give you a chance to see the most beautiful sunset in your life. The best thing is, when the night comes, you don’t have to go home. There are a lot of events you can attend and a lot of fun things you can do at the beach at night.

Final Word

As we said, when people discuss Canada and tourism, they usually won’t mention Burlington town. That’s because Burlington is a small town and people simply don’t know what it has to offer. If you read the article, you saw that the town on the coast of Lake Ontario has a lot of beautiful things to offer people. If you plan on exploring Canada, make sure you go to Burlington and experience the wonders of a small lake town.

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City manager explains what he has been up to in his annual report to Council. He ticked off a lot of boxes.

By Pepper Parr

February 28th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

City Council hires one person – the City Manager.

They direct the City Manager to hire people – just not who.

The City Manager sets the agenda for the administrative side of the corporation and in turn hires people for specific jobs.

Every City Manager brings a style and an approach to the job.  Tim Commisso had worked for Burlington back in the late 1900’s and left Burlington to return to his home town, Thunder Bay where he was City Manager for seven years – 2008-2015.

Delegates well – and has built a stronger leadership team – that job isn’t done yet.

One of the first things Marianne Meed Ward did once she had the Chain of Office around her neck was to fire the then City Manager James Ridge and bring Tim Commisso in to serve as Interim City Manager and eventually made it a full time job.

For Commisso it must have been nice to return to a city he worked in for 20 years serving as General Manager positions in Community Services and Development and Infrastructure, Director of Parks and Recreation and Deputy City Treasurer.

There isn’t a lot of detail on just how Meed Ward decided that Tim was to be her City Manager other than that she invited him for coffee.

Commisso had no idea what he had let himself in for.  It soon became evident that there were very serious Human Resources problems and that there were a number of senior positions that needed better qualified people.

The current Director of Human Resources delivered Commisso a whopper of a report in which she set out how deep and how serious the problems are in HR.

A big list of promises.

Two years later and Commisso reports that the HR issues are still his # 1 task.

A number of people have been brought in from other municipalities to head up departments: Planning got a re-org with Mark Simeoni being brought in from Oakville to get head up what is called Community Planning.

In the several news reports that will follow we want to focus on the problems that Commisso sets as serious:  HR is not his only concern.

The length of the contract Commisso signed was never revealed; they are usually for terms that run between five to sometimes seven years.

We will see a new Council in November – they aren’t all going to be re-elected.  Will Commisso stay on?  Is he happy?  How tired is he?  The pandemic has taken a lot out of him.

Human Resources – has Commisso got a grip on the critical changes he has to make?  And then where is he on delivering the V2F (Vision to Focus) part of the Strategic Plan ?

The 2023-2027 Council will be reviewing and revising the Strategic Plan – that 25 year document the city creates to set out where and how they are going to grow.  Given the huge influence the province has on growth decisions it is getting increasingly difficult to craft a Strategic Plan with the Ontario Land Tribunal (OTL) making most of the decisions.

In his report, it is on the Corporate Services, Strategy, Risk and Accountability  agenda, Commisso said: “In addition to the existing City Manager led objectives that are embedded in V2F, (Vision to Focus) I am personally committed to the following overriding strategic objectives:

Improving Workplace Culture including Staff Engagement and Positive Attitudes

Achieving Job Market Wage and Salary Competitiveness

Improving Employee Retention and Attraction

Advancing Employee Health and Safety Program

Implementing an updated Performance Management Framework

NEW – Ongoing refinement and execution of Council’s 2040 Strategic Plan and 2018-2022 Vision to Focus Strategic Action Plan (V2F)

That is a lot of boxes with tick marks.

Tim Commisso on the streets of Itabasi in Japan. Following the Mayor’s lead

The concept of risk in a municipal setting is one that Commisso focused on almost from the day he started working.

He is well on his way to developing a top line management team.  There are still a few senior positions that need new blood.

Right now the focus is on creating a different working environment at city hall and ensuring that the people needed are in place to handle the onslaught of development applications that have overtaken the Planning department.

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Football referees needed

By Staff

February 28th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Lakeshore Football Officials Association is continuing its campaign to recruit individuals who have a passion for the game of football and are eager to stay engaged with the game.

“We are reaching out to everyone, teens and adults who may be interested and have a passion for football. If you bring that passion, you will be mentored by some of the best football officials in the country,” commented Referee-in- Chief Murray Drinkwalter.

There are many reasons to Get Off the Sidelines and Into the Action – Be a Ref!

 For the love of the Game

Maybe you want to stay engaged and be a part of the game you loved to play, or maybe you are looking to get more engaged in the game your kids are playing. Either way, being an official will give you access to, and an appreciation for, the rules and strategies of the games you officiate like nothing else can.

Earn extra money

There is no better part-time job or hobby for you to make a little extra money doing something you enjoy. It’s the perfect extra gig for anyone from a high school student, to a parent, to a retiree.

Give Back

Many officials like to pay it forward to football for what it has given them. Officiating is also a way to guide and enrich the lives of the athletes who are playing by teaching the value of sportsmanship and fair play.

Stay Active

Maintain a healthy lifestyle by engaging with a sport you love. Also, who does not like getting paid to exercise?

It was raining, the ground was wet, slippery and football was hard to hang onto – but the game went on. High school football.

Sense of Community

The fellowship and humour officials share with one another are incomparable. You will quickly realize there is no community like officials. Many of them will become your closest friends — lifelong friends.

Life skills

Officiating teaches independent thinking and the ability to see the big picture — a skill that translates outside of officiating. It also requires dedication, togetherness, and ability to work as a team that is important everywhere.

Opportunity

Football officials are often identified and associated with the sport and are known outside of officiating by coaches, players and fans. Even if people do not know you specifically, many people associate officiating with trustworthiness, impartiality, dedication and integrity – all qualities that can open doors for you in other areas of life.

Drinkwalter also pointed out; “The pandemic took a toll on our organization and a number of our members have retired from officiating for various reasons, and with the formation of the Ontario Community Football League, youth football in our areas will be very active this summer. Our organization is making a concerted effort to recruit individuals who have the availability during the summer weekends and also in the fall to officiate high school football from September to November, the busiest time for our organization.” High school football games are normally played Tuesday-Friday with most doubleheaders kicking off at noon, 1p.m. or 2:30 pm.

All new officials must complete a one-day Level 1 Football Canada Officials’ Certification Program. The first program of 2022 will be held locally, hopefully in April.

If you are looking to get involved with football officiating, make some extra money, enjoy some camaraderie, and get some exercise, then please visit www.lfoa.ca to learn more and see the links to social media.

Have more questions? E-mail info@lfoa.ca and someone will contact you.

 

About the Lakeshore Football Officials Association

 The Lakeshore Football Officials’ Association, (LFOA) established in 1963, is responsible for officiating all community and high school tackle football in the regions of Halton, Peel, and Niagara. The organization offers Football Canada Certification Programs, rules and positioning clinics, and a personal mentoring program to assist in the development of all officials. Many of the organization’s officials are former or current members of the Canadian Football Lea

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