 By Staff
August 10th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
A new Brock University study aiming to learn more about how youth think about kindness is calling on teens to share their thoughts and experiences.
 Sandra Bosacki, Professor in the Faculty of Education and Director of Brock’s Theory of Mind in Education. The Mentalization, Kindness and Well-being Teen Study is part of a larger five-year research project led by Sandra Bosacki, Professor in the Faculty of Education and Director of Brock’s Theory of Mind in Education (ToME) Lab.
Funded by a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council Insight Grant awarded to Bosacki and co-primary investigator Victoria Talwar at McGill University, the research is focused on adolescents’ mentalization skills, identity and well-being.
Bosacki and the research team are particularly interested in learning what comes to a teenager’s mind when thinking about kindness.
“It is of utmost importance to listen to the voices of youth about what they think the word ‘kindness’ means, how they think and feel about it, and how they express kindness to themselves and others,” she said.
Previous research from Bosacki’s ToME lab showed that some adolescents may tend to show more kindness and compassion to others versus showing it to themselves.
By allowing young people to describe their perceptions and experiences of kindness and compassion, the researchers hope to determine how educational programs can incorporate aspects of mentalization in the secondary school curriculum to promote overall well-being and emotional health as well as behaviour that benefits others.
 Victoria Talwar, McGill University, co-primary investigator “The first of its kind in Canada, the study will give researchers in Brock’s Department of Educational Studies a chance to explore how kindness plays a role in the links between mentalization and prosocial acts in young people,” Bosacki said.
Adolescents between the ages of 11 and 18 years old are invited to participate in the study. Each participant is required to have a personal email address and informed consent provided by one parent.
Participants will complete an online survey, which takes place using Qualtrics and over Microsoft Teams, lasts about 60 minutes, and involves watching short video clips and filling out questionnaires.
After the session is completed, participants’ parents will be sent a digital gift card and will have the opportunity to participate in a follow-up study next year.
Anyone interested in taking part can contact the Theory of Mind in Education lab by email at tomelab@brocku.ca
 By Staff
August 10th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The City’s fall and winter adult recreational programs will be opening for registration on Aug. 19 at 9 a.m. Youth programs, aquatic leadership and swimming lessons will be opening for registration at 11 a.m. All programs are viewable online now.
Aquatic leadership programs open for registration include spring 2024 programs.
View registration information at burlington.ca/recreation.
 Registration Dates and Program Highlights
Date Time Program
Saturday, Aug. 19 9 a.m. • Adult 19+ and Adult 55+ fall and winter programs
• Variety of in-person indoor and virtual opportunities
• Sports, games, fitness, creative activities, music programs, social events, discussion and learning programs
• Log in and register at liveandplay.burlington.ca.
Saturday, Aug. 19 11 a.m. • Fall and winter youth programs
• Fall swimming lessons
• Fall, winter and spring aquatic leadership
• Log in and register at liveandplay.burlington.ca.
Non-resident registration opens Aug. 25 at 9 a.m.
Fall and winter private music lesson registration is open now at liveandplay.burlington.ca.
Registration for Winter 2024 swimming lessons will take place starting on Dec. 2, 2023.
 Assisted Registration
Residents who need extra support or do not have online access to register for programs can call 905-335-7738 for staff-assisted telephone registrations Aug. 19 and Aug. 20 at 9 a.m. This service is only available to those who need help and cannot register online.
The Recreation customer service team is also available through email at liveandplay@burlington.ca. Phone and email support is available Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and weekends 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In-person registration is available starting Sunday following the launch at Tansley Woods Community Centre, and starting Monday, at Burlington Seniors’ Centre and other recreation customer service counters.
For more information on how to set up an account or register online, visit burlington.ca/registration.
Recreation Fee Assistance
Recreation is for all, regardless of financial situation. Recreation Fee Assistance is funding made available to resident individuals or families who need help to pay for City of Burlington recreation programs. For more information or to apply, visit burlington.ca/feeassistance.
Renee Kulinski-McCann, Manager, Recreation Services adds: “We have a lot of great programs for everyone. I really encourage people to take a look at our online catalogue. You may be pleasantly surprised at some of the different recreational programs we offer, and you might find one you want to try. It’s a great way to stay active in the community, meet new people and have fun.”
Links and Resources
burlington.ca/feeassistance
burlington.ca/registration
 By Staff
August 9th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
THE CONCERT TRUCK will be presenting 10 free 30-minute performances across Burlington.
See it is as a Mobile Concert Experience taking place across the city brtween Wednesday August 9, through to Sunday August 13, 2023
 Burloak Park: Wed Aug 9 at Noon
Berton Park: Wed Aug 9 at 7pm
Chartwell Lakeshore Retirement (5314 Lakeshore Rd.): Thu Aug 10 at Noon
BPAC Outdoor Plaza: Thu Aug 10 at 2pm
Burlington Mall: Fri Aug 11 at 4pm
Civic Square: Fri Aug 11 at 6pm
BPAC Outdoor Plaza: Sat Aug 12 at 1pm and 3:30pm
BPAC Outdoor Plaza: Sun Aug 13 at 1pm and 3:30pm
All Concert Truck events are free to attend!
The Concert Truck is a mobile music venue that strengthens communities by redefining the concert experience and making live music accessible to all. Created by pianists Nick Luby and Susan Zhang, the project aims to engage diverse communities and audiences nationwide with thoughtful, timely programming, and works with arts organizations of all sizes to build a critical presence in their communities.
The Concert Truck is a 16-foot box truck and a fully functioning mobile concert hall, complete with lights, sound system, and piano. Nick, Susan and the truck have toured across the country, partnering with arts organizations to help build their presence in the communities they serve by presenting concerts in city streets, music and arts festivals, schools, neighbourhoods, parks and beyond.
 By Pepper Parr
August 7th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
It took Darryl Fowler just about a month to pull together the people that worked with him on getting the local food drive going.
When he set things up for the Friday start he asked the Burlington Food Bank for a hamper to put what was donated in. They delivered a big blue container – mid day Saturday he knew they were going to need more – not sure the Food Bank would be open on the weekend – he turned to his network and before the end of the day three more bins were in place.
It became really clear – Darryl leaned on his network – people he deals with on a regular basis and they all answered the call.
 Stuff just kept coming in – $3000 in gift cards. Darryl & Hannah Fowler – have three children; a four year old, a 2 ½ and a 1 ½. Hanna was a stay at home Mother but is looking forward to returning to the bank she has worked at for a number of years.
Darryl bought their first home in Hamilton, did very well on the sale of that home in 2017 which made it financially possible to move to Burlington. They don’t even think about moving anywhere else.
Darryl has been in HVAC all his working life. There were some labour difficulties during the early part of Covid and Darryl thought this was a good time to strike out on his own.
He describes himself is as a one man shop with good talent that he uses on an as needed basis.
 Four bins and half a tonne of food later – the photo op was earned. “I am a people person, I like doing things with and for people – being on my own means I don’t have to spend time managing staff – all my effort goes into keeping customers happy.
He rent space at a storage facility – thinks maybe at some point he will open up a shop but at this point he thinks working on his own is best for him and his customers.
 Darryl Fowler takes the shop with him when calling on a customer. What he is finding however is that the cost of everything has increased: gas, parts, food – he knows everyone is feeling the same pinch.
He makes heavy use of social media and has a five star Google rating. His approach is “if they support me – I support them.
Julie Neal, who worked at setting a record for a bottle drive she and her husband took on in 2021 was part of that supporting network – a bit of a cluster there.
Burlington Together with its massive following was a part of making this happen. Burlington Dads were there as well.
These groups work independently; at the same time they are part of a collective that are more than an arms length from city hall.
This is what real community is all about.
 By Pepper Parr
August 5th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Does the prospect of a week spent lazing somewhere warm, book in hand, fill you with joy?
That’s how I feel—until the holiday begins and I realize I’ve forgotten to answer an email. Then I see two messages sitting, accusingly, in my drafts folder. I start tapping out a quick list of reminders for when I get back. This feels nicely productive, until suddenly the list has 27 items.
 Nice way to spend an afternoon – something on the light side. If you have a demanding job, proper breaks are vital. Psychoanalysts explain why relaxing can be so hard for people who feel “burnt out”—and argue that it’s not just our jobs that overwork our minds.
You could start by writing a great out-of-office reply. But try not to overthink it: perfectionism is out of favour with workers and companies alike.
No wonder so many employees are quiet quitting. Or are you more of a “cyberloafer”? If so you may be more productive than you think.
This summer, lean in by stretching back.
 By Staff
August 4th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
If you thought arborists were people who came out to look at your trees and give you some advice and direction and at times told you you were not permitted to do what you wanted to do – pause and see them as sports people who climb trees competitively.
The will be competing at LaSalle park mid September – mark your calendars – this should be something exciting to watch.
The Ontario Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA Ontario) hosts its annual tree climbing championship Friday September 15 & Saturday September 16, 2023 at LaSalle Park 50 North Shore Blvd E, Burlington. At this fun, competitive, spectator-friendly event, professional tree climbers from across Ontario will compete for the title of top climber in the province.
 Krista Strating: 2018 International Tree Climbing Champion from the ISA Ontario Chapter. This unique event showcases arborists in action demonstrating the exceptional skills required for professional tree work. Competitors will perform five different preliminary events simulating the skills required to work safely and efficiently in the trees. From a timed speed climb, a targeted throwline toss, a work climb, an ascent event using specialized equipment and an aerial rescue, each challenge gives climbers a chance to demonstrate their incredible skills.
The climbers who score the highest during these preliminary contests will compete in the Masters’ Challenge. In this final round, the winners (top male and female) will be crowned the Ontario Champions. They’ll earn the honour of representing Ontario at the 2023 International Tree Climbing Championship (ITCC).
This FREE event is open to the public and starts 1:00 PM on Friday September 15 and runs through Saturday September 16 at 5:00 PM.
 By Staff
August 3rd, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
 Saturday, August 5th at Spencer Smith Park.
This is not something you want to miss.
The 2023 Halton Freedom Celebration Festival is celebrating the 189th year of Emancipation throughout the British Commonwealth, bringing together musical acts, children’s activities, cultural art, food, crafts, and heritage, historical, genealogical, and multi-cultural groups, promoting inclusivity and community integration.
The multi-cultural ambience is infused with Canadian R&B, Reggae, Soul, Funk, African, Ska, Soca and Pop Artists with some of our country’s finest musicians.
Festivities are from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. Please bring lawn chairs, sunshade, appetite, and dancewear for optimal enjoyment.
Click here to learn more about the 2023 participating musicians.
By Staff
July 31st, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
City of Burlington administrative services will be closed for the Civic holiday on Monday, Aug. 7. For a list of which City services and facilities are available on the long weekend, please see the summary below or visit burlington.ca.
Fireworks reminder
Fireworks are not permitted to be set off on the August Civic holiday. As per the City’s bylaw, family (low-hazard) fireworks can only be set off on Canada Day and Victoria Day. For more information regarding who to contact if you have a personal safety concern related to the use of fireworks, visit burlington.ca/fireworks.
City Service Holiday Closure Information
Animal Services The Animal Shelter at 2424 Industrial St. will be closed to appointments on Monday, Aug. 7. To report an animal control related emergency on a holiday, please call 905-335-7777.
 Transit on the Sunday Schedule for the 7th Burlington Transit Burlington Transit will operate on a Sunday schedule on Monday, Aug. 7. For real-time bus information and schedules, visit myride.burlingtontransit.ca.
The Downtown Transit Terminal, at 430 John St., and Specialized Dispatch will be closed on Monday, Aug. 7.
City Hall Service Burlington and the Building, Renovating and Licensing counter on the main floor of City Hall at 426 Brant St., will be closed to all appointments and walk-in service on Monday, Aug. 7.
Many service payments are available online at burlington.ca/onlineservices
For online development services:
MyFiles can be used by residents who have applied for Pre-Building Approval after April 24, 2023. Once an account has been created, applicants can check the status of their files at burlington.ca/MyFiles.
Halton Court Services – Provincial Offences Office Court administration counter services at 4085 Palladium Way will be closed on Monday, Aug. 7.
Except for the Civic holiday closures, telephone payments are available at 905-637-1274, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. All in-person services are available from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Many services are also available by email at burlingtoncourt@burlington.ca or online at Halton Court Services. Payment of Provincial Offences fines is available 24/7 at www.paytickets.ca.
 You now have to pay for parking at the Beachway on weekends. You get a permit if you live in the Region. Parking Free parking is available downtown, on the street, in municipal lots and in the parking garage (414 Locust St.) on weekends and holidays, including the Civic holiday on Monday, Aug. 7.
NOTE:
• The Waterfront parking lots (east and west at 1286 Lakeshore Rd.) do not provide free parking on holidays
• Parking exemptions are required to park overnight on city streets and for longer than five hours. Visit burlington.ca/parkingexemptions
• Paid parking is in effect at Beachway Park (1100 and 991 Lakeshore Rd.) on weekends only (including holidays) using HONK Mobile
• Please make an online reservation using Park Pass to visit Lowville Park on weekends. Reservations are free and available in three-hour time slots
Recreation Programs and Facilities Drop-In Swimming
Nelson Pool and Splash Park, Mountainside Pool and Splash Park, and LaSalle Wading Pool and Splash Park are open for swimming through the weekend and on the Civic holiday (weather permitting). Outdoor pool lap swims and recreational swims are walk-in only, with no reservations.
Indoor pools swims vary over the weekend, including a free swim presented by Access Storage on Saturday, Aug. 5, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., at Centennial Pool (5151 News St.). Pre-registration is recommended. Registration opens online at burlington.ca/dropinandplay for residents seven days in advance. Walk-ups are welcome if capacity remains.
Drop-In Skating
Appleby Ice Centre is open on Saturday, Aug. 5 for drop-in skating and recreational hockey programs. For schedules and registration please visit burlington.ca/dropinandplay.
 This is a large part of what Burlington is about. Easy evenings at the Band shell listening to music. Now if taxes can be kept reasonable – you might be able to continue living in the city. Concerts in the Park
Head over to the Central Park Bandshell on Sunday, Aug. 6 at 7:30 p.m. to enjoy an entertaining evening of music. Bring your own lawn chair and blanket. The concert series runs each Wednesday and Sunday evening from 7:30 to 9 p.m. (weather permitting). For more information including performer listings visit burlington.ca/concerts.
Splash Pads
The City’s nine splash pads are located throughout the city and are free to use. To find a splash pad near you visit burlington.ca/splashpads.
Outdoor Activities
Burlington has a wide variety of outdoor activities to enjoy with your family during the long weekend including:
• trails and multi-use paths
• parks and playgrounds.
• picnic site reservations for La Salle or Hidden Valley Park
Find out more at burlington.ca/outdoorplay.
 Good golf course – but why is the city paying for some of the upkeep? Link to that story https://burlingtongazette.ca/taxpayer-funds-are-expected-to-support-the-golf-course-going-forward/ Golf
Tyandaga Golf Course is open for the season and tee times can be booked online at tyandagagolf.com or by calling 905-336-0005, ext. 2.
Play Lending Library
Our Lending Library has a variety of outdoor and indoor play equipment available to borrow in time for the long weekend at no charge. From archery to wiffle ball, and Kanjam to pickleball. Lifejackets in various sizes are also available for your next outing on the water. Check out burlington.ca/playlending for details.
Customer Service
Recreation, Community and Culture customer service is available to assist you in person at recreation facility counters during program times.
Customer service is also available:
• By email at liveandplay@burlington.ca
• By phone at 905-335-7738, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday (including Aug. 5, 6, 7).
Roads, Parks and Forestry The administrative office will be closed on Monday, Aug. 7. Essential services will be provided as required.
Links to related stories:
Public money paying for maintenance of the golf course
 By Staff
July 24th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
City has announced dates for visioning exercises on the redesign of the adaptive reuse of the recently acquired Robert Bateman High School. The events are being called Community Visioning Workshops.
Dates are
August 22, Appelby Ice Centre 7:00 -9:00
August 23, LaSalle Park 1:00- 300
Don’t expect to see council members at the event unless they are going to drive back to Burlington from London where most are expected to take part in the three day annual AMO conference.
 The city now owns the property- they have rented out much of the space to the HAlton District School Board and Brock University. The city has asked people to register to attend: use – getinvolved@burlington.ca to register
Additional events are scheduled for October 18, Tansley Woods 7:00-9:00 and a Zoom events October 19 at 7:00 pm
An alert Gazette reader points out that community engagement was expected to take place in Q2 2023. The reader added that Phase 1 of the project was expected to be complete in September 2024 not September 2025.
By Staff
July 20th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
You spent the time you needed to plant your garden and in the weeks ahead you will harvest and put some fresh produce on the table.
 What about the seeds for next year’s garden?
Get the most out of your flourishing garden plants by harvesting their seeds this summer.
In this workshop, get to know the basics of seed collection, cleaning, sorting, and storage. Learn about cross pollination and ways to avoid surprises next season.
The talk covers popular vegetables as well as ornamental plants—and you’ll create some secure, no-tape seed packets to take home!
Sunday, July 30th, 2:00 to 3:00 pm
Link to sign up HERE
 By Pepper Parr
July 18th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
 For those who want a bite to eat – Curb Side will be there.
It is the best summer event deal in the city. Might not draw the mobs that Sound of Music pulls in but for a great entertainment day – ‘Jazz on the Plaza’ is tops
Highly anticipated annual community event, showcases a series of emerging and established Canadian musicians in an al fresco setting.
Tammy Fox, Executive Director of the operation has taken it all a step further with the inclusion of a Food Truck. Curbside will be on hand for those that want a little more than the bar offers.
The performers for each of the two day event are:
Saturday August 12th
 Elise LeGrow – a Canadian vocal powerhouse ELISE LEGROW
Sat Aug 12, 2023 at 2pm
With a raspy, spellbinding style and elegant, dynamic mystique, Elise LeGrow is the Canadian powerhouse defying pop culture chronology, wowing Questlove, Betty Wright, and a crew of R&B legends along the way.
 Heather Bambrick Sat Aug 12, 2023 at 4pm
Heather Bambrick, one of Canada’s top Jazz vocalists, has collaborated with some of the best around and has appeared as a guest performer with numerous Jazz ensembles. If you’re a CBC listener you will know her well
Sunday August 13th
 Ori Dagan ORI DAGAN
Sun Aug 13, 2023 at 2pm
Award-winning jazz singer-songwriter Ori Dagan has attracted a dedicated and growing audience, both in his native Toronto and internationally.
 Micah Barnes and Billy Newton Davis Micah Barnes and Billy Newton Davis: Former Nylons in Concert
Sun Aug 13, 2023 at 4pm
This show features Billy Newton Davis performing “Sammy & Me” about his real-life experience working with Sammy Davis Jr., and Micah Barnes taking you on the roller coaster ride of his career in “Micah at The Sands Hotel”!
By Staff
July 17th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington’s Heritage Advisory Committee invites you to take part in an exciting lineup of activities for Heritage Week, Aug. 5-12, 2023. In honour of Burlington’s 150th anniversary, a special week of heritage events are planned, focusing on sites that have shaped Burlington throughout its history.
A detailed schedule of all the events taking place during Heritage Week, including locations and how to register, is set out below:
Registration is open between July 10 to 28. All are welcome.
Schedule of events
Heritage Week is organized by the members of Heritage Burlington, in collaboration with the Burlington Historical Society, Royal Botanical Gardens, Burlington Public Library, Burlington Museums, Beach Canal Lighthouse, Freeman Station, Halton Black History Awareness Society, Heritage Services – Halton Region, and David Craig of History Pix, along with a growing list of other organizations.
 Michele Camacho, Chair, Heritage Burlington Michele Camacho, Chair, Heritage Burlington, one of the really good examples of what an Advisory Committee can achieve said: “Heritage Week is a time to celebrate the many aspects of Burlington’s various heritages. The celebrations are even more special this year, as Burlington celebrates its sesquicentennial anniversary. Heritage Burlington is so glad to be able to welcome the community to take part in a fantastic lineup of events to mark this milestone. Thank you to our civic partners, community groups, and volunteers who make learning more about the history of our community interesting and fun. A special thanks to Marsha Paley, Co-Vice Chair of the Heritage Burlington Advisory Committee for her leadership.”
 By Eva Johnson
July 17th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
After a major legislative update of Ontario online gambling laws in April 2022, Ontario became a place of rapid industry development as dozens of online casino operators acquired the local license for legal performance.
Already in a couple of months after the legislation update, the industry showed a major boost and Ontario became a successful case in Canada and globally.
This positive case allows us to make suggestions and predictions about the development of the online gambling industry in the province.
General Expectations for the Online Gambling Industry in the Province
 Canada has always been gambling-friendly. Canada has always been gambling-friendly, but Ontario has pioneered among other provinces by introducing its new legislation in 2022. Already in a couple of months, the Ontario gambling industry saw an increase in revenues, taxes, and positive competition.
Based on this fact alone, there are several predictions that can be made about the future of the industry and the licensed online casinos in Ontario.
Increased Revenue
The legalization and regulation of online gambling is already resulting in a significant increase in revenue for the province, as more people will be able to access and participate in Internet gambling activities legally.
Not only do Internet casino operators make more money because local players are more willing to try their casino sites out but also more taxes are paid to the province and charities.
Healthier Competition
With the legalization of online gambling, more companies will enter the market, resulting in increased competition. AGCO has already closed the transition period when operators could request the local license, so the number of Internet casinos in the province will not show unlimited growth.
However, the increased number of legal competitors will lead to better services and products for customers, as companies try to outdo one another.
 Good jobs in a safe environment are part of what makes gaming as attractive as it is in Canada More Jobs
According to the gambling statistics, the online gambling industry is likely to create more jobs in Ontario, as companies set up operations and hire staff to manage their Internet platforms. Of course, not much is needed to run an Internet casino locally because it only means access to the services while all the staff can be located elsewhere. However, legal online gambling means more control and supervision in the corresponding agencies that will hire staff.
Also, Live Dealer facilities may want to hire local Dealers for Ontario players, and so on. Who knows what new type of gambling entertainment will be invented next in a transparent and competitive market?
Enhanced Responsible Gambling Measures
With the legalization and regulation of Internet gambling, the government is likely to introduce more responsible gambling measures to protect players. This could include increased education on gambling addiction, self-exclusion programs, and limits on the amount of money players can spend.
AGCO and iGO have strict Responsible gambling policies and requirements that all operators must meet, and it is very likely that with time, these measures will become even more specific and elaborate.
Potential for Increased Gambling Addiction
While responsible gambling measures are likely to be introduced, there is a risk that the legalization of Internet gambling could result in an increase in gambling addiction. The government will need to be vigilant in monitoring the industry and ensuring that appropriate measures are in place to prevent and treat addiction.
It is too early to provide any adequate statistical data about addictive gambling issues increased in Ontario since April 2022 but this seems to be a legit consequence of more available and affordable gambling entertainment.
 Technology has become a large part of the growth of gaming in Canada Technological Advancements
The Internet gambling industry is likely to continue to evolve and develop new technologies to enhance the user experience.
This could include virtual reality casinos, Live dealer games, and more. Interestingly, many technologies are developed as entertainment first because people are ready to pay for fun whereas they are not ready to pay for useful things.
Some streaming technologies, KYC and verification procedures, payment technologies, and other inventions for Internet casinos can eventually turn out useful in other niches.
Potential for Increased Tax Revenue
The legalization and regulation of online gambling could result in increased tax revenue for the province, which could be used to fund public services and infrastructure.
International Competition
Ontario’s online gambling industry could face competition from other jurisdictions, both within Canada and internationally. Of course, being the first, Ontario is now a dream-come-true province for all Canadian players.
However, as other provinces and states follow (which can really happen with time!) Internet casino operators may find other locations more attractive for licensed services, and Ontario will stop being a buzzword in the online gambling industry.
Final Thoughts
Ontario shows a positive example to all provinces in Canada and other jurisdictions that were reluctant to upgrade their gambling legislation and preferred to turn a blind eye to the gray zone in which gambling currently operates in the majority of countries. Therefore, it is easy to understand that Ontario is being watched closely to analyze its case.
However, the industry is rather unpredictable, and new inventions can create additional nuances in the near future – like the introduction of AI technologies did for many industries. Therefore, while Ontario seems to be managing well, it is still too early to state that its example will be followed massively.
By Pepper Parr
July 14th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The City announced the 2023 recipients of the Neighbourhood Community Matching Fund (NCMF).
 It was a number of years ago but these four lads, working with their parents got funding to improve the ball diamond at the park next to their school. The fund was created to inspire Burlington residents to actively champion projects in the community to improve, build and strengthen the social contract and enhance the quality of life for everyone.
Bringing neighbourhoods and communities together to make new connections and create a sense of belonging is just as important as the project itself.
The funds objectives are:
- Improve, build and strengthen Burlington neighbourhoods
- Create a greater sense of belonging
- Foster individual well-being and community pride
- Inspire residents to become more actively involved in the community
- Build stronger relationships
Public Pollinator Garden ($3,640)
This project aims to create a public pollinator garden at Port Nelson United Church. The pollinator garden will provide a safe and nurturing environment for pollinators while enhancing the beauty of the area.
Burlington Tennis Club ($5,000)
This project aims to install and provide outdoor public Wi-Fi and web cameras in the west end of Central Park, near the Burlington Tennis Club.
Sycamore Park Neighbours ($9,981)
This project aims to build a bumping space within Sycamore Park in the Palmer community. Bumping spaces are places where people can “bump” into neighbours. It allows informal interactions with community members, meet-ups with friends and forming friendships and connections. The project includes three round metal picnic tables, one of which will be accessible for those who use wheelchairs, and a sensory garden. Sensory gardens are intended to stimulate sight, sound and touch.
On balance this is a good program. On occasion a bit too much goes to well established community groups but on occasation the department takes a chance on something different – the bumping stations could be interesting.
For more information on the Neighbourhood Community Matching Fund, visit burlington.ca/matchingfund.
 By Staff
July 13th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
 Are they having fun? If you’re looking for some summer fun but aren’t part of a summer camp this year, the Art Gallery of Burlington is offering Stroller Tours each Thursday from 10 – 10:30 AM.
They meet inside the doors of the Lakeshore Roads entrance and for the first ten minutes of touring, ten minutes of story time, then ten more minutes of exploring.
For those who have not yet had an opportunity to introduce their children ti an art gallery – this is a nice way to get them started.
A special way to experience art together.
 By Staff
July 13th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Performing Arts Centre (‘BPAC’) is seeking local performance-based artists and collectives to participate in our 2023 Culture Days ‘Live & Local’ Artist Showcase on Saturday, September 23rd at BPAC.
 Selected artists will also be considered for participation in BPAC’s 23/24 Season ‘Live & Local’ Series. This call is open to all Burlington-based artists, in any performing arts discipline. This includes, but is not limited to, music (all genres), dance, theatre, comedy and family entertainment.
Burlington-area emerging, community-based artists are invited to apply, and we encourage applications from Indigenous, equity-seeking and racialized communities. The creation of BPAC’s Live & Local Artist Development Initiative program is intended to support local artists and to connect artists and the community through activation, engagement and presentation opportunities.
Applicants should be Burlington-based or strongly affiliated with the City. Examples would include artists who work, live or go to school within the City, or who are connected to the Indigenous heritage of the land.
Applications are now being accepted. Deadline for submission is Friday, August 4th, 2023.
The application form can be accessed HERE
‘LIVE & LOCAL’ ARTIST SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- What is your performing arts discipline? (Music, Singing, Dance, Theatre, Drama, etc.)
- Provide a list of past performances in the Burlington area (indicate paid or volunteer)
- Describe your artistic goals and how the LIVE & LOCAL program could contribute to your success as an emerging artist (Max. 100 words).
- Supporting Materials – Please provide two (2) digital samples of your work and website link.
Artists will be provided with an honorarium and technical support. Showcase performances will be approximately 30 minutes in length each, and BPAC staff will determine which venue is most suitable for your showcase performance (Community Studio Theatre, Main Theatre, Family Lobby or Outdoor Plaza).
BPAC’s Live & Local Series is generously sponsored by Daniel Durst of Desjardins Insurance.
 By Staff
July 11th 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The Write Here. Write now contest received an incredible number of entries this year—they doubled last year’s total! The creators ranged in age from 10 all the way up to 93.
The Gazette is publishing the two winners in the short story 18+ category. The first is below, the other will follow later in the week.
The winners in each category are:
Poetry
10-12: Kayla Gareau, Dream experts, Dream catchers, Dream chasers
13-17: Griffin Dekker, Beginning of an End
18+: Denny Williams, Reflections on pet ownership
Short Stories
10-12: Avery Parkes, Ali in Winterland
13-17: Mia Greene, Nefelibata
18+: Jennifer Filipowicz, The Swan and Gregory Blount, Cooper Falls
Comics
10-12: Brody Hanks, Muffinhead and Bagel-Brain
13-17: Ali Thompson, The Duck
18+: Dominique Bowler-Brown, Elephant Bones
The Swan by Jennifer Filipowicz
“Don’t touch that.”
Jayda pulled her hand away instantly, as thought her mother’s voice had the power to move her like a marionette. Still the dead swan beckoned, as pristine as it had been in life, and Jayda felt a desperate urge to stroke its pure white feathers. She watched out of the corner of her eye until her mother’s attention was diverted to the windsurfers sailing across Burlington Bay, then Jayda reached out and stroked the twisted neck.
The swan was beautiful, like snow white in her coffin, and like the handsome prince, Jayda kissed the majestic dead bird on its black beak, just below its vacant staring eye.
“Jayda!”
“I was just pretending,” Jayda said, the coolness of the beak still on her lips.
 Mom rummaged in her beach bag, pulled out a package of disinfectant wipes and frantically wiped Jayda’s face and hands. “We don’t know how the swan died,” Mom said. “It might have a disease.”
“It doesn’t look sick,” Jayda said. “Just dead.” “We don’t know, so we don’t touch it just in case.”
Jayda nodded solemnly. “Can I keep a feather as a souvenir?” Jayda yanked out a tail feather from the corpse and held it up.
“Jayda,” Mom answered neutrally.
Jayda brushed the soft feather across her face. A man wearing swim trunks walked his golden retriever along the beach. The dog lunged toward the dead swan, causing the man great physical exertion as he held his companion back. Finally the man in the swim trunks successfully turned back the way he came. Jayda watched the dog gallop along the beach, then turned her attention back to the swan.
Suddenly she got a wonderful idea.
“Mom!” she exclaimed. “If we went and got my wagon we could take the swan with us!”
“No, Jayda,” Mom said, her voice tired.
“But it will look so nice in my room,” Jayda said. “And I won’t even touch it, just look.”
“It will rot.”
Jayda imagined the swan as its body shriveled, maggots eating holes in its flesh, until only a skeleton remained. “Neat.” “It will smell really bad.”
Jayda considered this. “Worse than Daddy’s feet?” “Infinitely worse.”
“The birds at the ROM don’t smell or rot.” “The museum birds are stuffed.”
“Can we–”
“No.”
 Swan at the LaSalle Park waterfront “You don’t know what I was asking.” “We can’t have this swan stuffed.” “Why not?”
“Because I don’t know a taxidermist.”
Jayda’s mother stared out over the water again, one of the windsurfers lost his balance and fell into the waves. His head popped up again and he held onto his board.
“Mom, what’s a taxidermist?”
“A person who stuffs dead animals.” “I want to be a taxidermist!”
“You can be anything you want to, Sweetie.”
“I have an idea!” Jayda said. “We can take the swan home and I can practice stuffing it!”
“No.”
“I’ll wear my paint smock, so I won’t get any blood on me.” “I’ll let you keep the feather,” Mom said.
“I can’t stuff a feather, Mom.”
“You can stuff things when you’re older.”
Jayda kicked at the sand so that beige and grey dust sprinkled over the swan corpse. Then she crouched down and brushed the sand away until the swan was pristine again. Her mother was ready with the wipes. “It’s time to go home,” Mom said.
They walked together along Burlington Beach to the playground near where their car was parked. Jayda glanced back at the swan, now a splotch of white in the distance.
“Mommy?”
“Yes, Jayda?”
“Can we come back every day to watch the swan rot?”
We tell our readers a little more about Jennifer Filipowicz later today
By Staff
July 9th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The Write Here. Write Now contest received an incredible number of entries this year—they doubled last year’s total! The creators ranged in age from 10 all the way up to 93.
The Gazette is publishing the two winners in the short story 18+ category. The first is below, the other will follow later in the week.
The winners in each category are:
Poetry
10-12: Kayla Gareau, Dream experts, Dream catchers, Dream chasers
13-17: Griffin Dekker, Beginning of an End
18+: Denny Williams, Reflections on pet ownership
Short Stories
10-12: Avery Parkes, Ali in Winterland
13-17: Mia Greene, Nefelibata
18+: Jennifer Filipowicz, The Swan and Gregory Blount, Cooper Falls
Comics
10-12: Brody Hanks, Muffinhead and Bagel-Brain
13-17: Ali Thompson, The Duck
18+: Dominique Bowler-Brown, Elephant Bones
Gregory Blount proves to be imaginative and quite a story teller.
Well worth a read.
Chief Librarian Lita Barrie explained that two of the short stories were so good they decided to make both winners.
The were certainly right. The story reminds me of Stephen Leacock’s Sunshine Sketches of a Little Town
Enjoy
It was a sunny June day. Russell Stewart and I were cutting through Memorial Park on our way home from the falls. As usual, I wasn’t feeling very sunny myself. There were two spots up at the river where a kid could test their courage, Chicken Run and Dead Man’s Bluff. Chicken Run was about ten feet over the water, and Dead Man’s Bluff, at the top of the falls, was about twenty-five feet high. Russell, a freckle faced redhead, wasn’t the only boy in town brave enough to run right off Dead Man’s Bluff, but he was the only one who could do it blindfolded. I, on the other hand, had never progressed past Chicken Run with my eyes wide open. I would sometimes crawl out along the slippery rocks of Dead Man’s Bluff, but one look into that dark green water far, far below with the roar of the falls drowning out all other sounds and I would start shaking so bad I’d have to crawl right back away from the edge. Russell was always pushing me to try things. Life was easy for him and he saw no good reason why it shouldn’t be easy for me too. We were opposites, but we were also best friends.
On our way home we passed the old cannon near the gazebo in the centre of Memorial park.
Russell stopped and made an announcement, ‘Ladies and gentlemen, for our final performance this afternoon we proudly present Sam Cooper, the Human Cannonball! He will astound you with his amazing 500-foot flight into this glass of water.’ He held out a pretend glass of water. ‘Sam, do you have any last words?’
‘Russell, this is silly, come on?’
‘Come on yourself! Need I remind you this is not Dead Man’s Bluff, Sam. Do you have any last words?’
I knew when I was beat and announced, ‘I would like to dedicate this feat to Mary-Anne McCovey the prettiest girl in the universe!’
Russell and I both had a major crush on Mary-Anne McCovey.
‘Dream on,’ said Russell, ‘and now observe ladies and gentlemen as the fearless Human Cannonball enters the cannon. Get in the cannon Sam.’
‘Come on Russell.’
‘Come on yourself Sam! Need I remind you that … ‘
‘ … this is not Dead Man’s Bluff,’ I finished. Okay.’
And I lowered myself into the cannon feet first.
And Russell pulled the lever.
Now one fact that neither of us was aware of at the time was that the park caretaker, Elroy Stubbs, had made no mistakes in his job these 25 years. Two days earlier, he was loading that very cannon for a 21-gun salute for Flag Day. Elroy carefully placed the charges in the cannon, ‘1, 2, 3,’ he counted; I want you to remember that last number, 3.
At that very moment, the Mayor of Cooper Falls, a round and soft young man by the name of Junior Follows (who incidentally was up for re-election that year) ceremoniously marched out to the cannon where Elroy was working to present him with his Error-Free Certificate.
“Elroy Stubbs,” the Mayor interrupted, “For 25 years of error-free service I hereby present you with this lovely certificate. I hope I can count on your vote, Elroy.” Whereupon, he handed the certificate over to the astonished Elroy, shook his hand and marched back to City Hall.
Elroy folded up the certificate, shoved it into his pocket, spit, and with a puzzled look on his face, resumed loading the cannon, ‘3, 4, 5, 6,’ etcetera.
The upshot of this was that after the ceremony was over, there was still one charge left in the cannon. And as I climbed in, and Russell pulled the lever to “pretend” fire the cannon there was an ear-shattering … BOOM!
Several things happened very quickly at this point. The dinner plate sized circle of blue sky that I was looking at out the end of the cannon was instantly replaced by a scenic view of Cooper Falls from about 300 feet up. My body was going quite a bit faster than my brain at this point. In fact my brain was still trying to work out how I could be seeing all this from inside a cannon.
As my body exited the muzzle of the cannon there was a loud THWACK as my clothing exploded. Singed articles of clothing drifted to the ground not more than ten feet from the end of the cannon, shirt, socks, sneakers, bathing suit.
Deafened, Russell froze on the spot with his hand on the lever, his mouth hanging open, and his red hair standing straight up. Then he looked into the barrel and saw nothing but a bit of smoke. He must have thought the clothes were all that was left of me. Then he high-tailed it, screaming, across the park to the police station where he commenced to blubbering something about shooting his friend. When it was obvious no one there understood a word he was saying, he grabbed one of the deputies, and with superhuman strength carried him kicking and screaming into the park.
By an extraordinary coincidence, three blocks away, the beautiful Mary-Anne McCovey was having a pool party. There were a dozen girls from our class sitting along the edge of her pool with their hands carefully placed on their thighs and stomachs, and so on, marking the furthest splash up to that point in the cannonball contest. Mary-Anne McCovey was standing on the diving board about to take her turn.
At about 500 feet, I felt a queasy sense of weightlessness. Time itself seemed to slow down. I began to fall.
That was when I learned something about myself that I hold dear to this very day. I did not scream hysterically, and my life did not pass before my eyes. The screamers and those whose lives pass before their eyes do not often survive the predicaments they are in. It is the people who spend this short time planning who, on occasion, survive. I found out that I was a planner.
I looked down and saw a tiny rectangle of blue in front of me. Could it possibly be a swimming pool? And could it possibly be directly in line with the cannon in Memorial Park? Was there any chance that I might land in a swimming pool? I began to move my body as I had seen stunt men in the movie serials do, head down, feet up, slow tumble to land flat on my back.
But as I picked up speed, I realized that even if I was lucky enough to land in water, I had better not land flat on my back so at the last moment brought my knees up and held them in my arms … SPLOOSH!”
The resulting splash blew all twelve girls flat against the fence, and Mary-Anne who you will recall was on the diving board at the time found herself looking down from her neighbour’s roof. I couldn’t climb out of the pool on account of the new water level, and had to be rescued by Mary-Anne McCovey and her friends, which they did shortly after they rescued Mary-Anne from her neighbour’s roof. I would have been out quite a bit quicker if the girls had been able to control their laughter.
Around this time, the town’s three deputies were dragging Russell to jail for his own protection. And old Abraham Johansen, a farmer on the outskirts of town, who had been scanning the horizon and wishing for rain for more than five weeks, was burning his copy of the Farmer’s Almanac. He thought he heard thunder, and ventured out onto his porch. Several drops of water splashed his face. He looked up at the clear blue sky, and grumbled, ‘Very funny.’
I won the cannonball contest, although the girl who was ahead at that point challenged it briefly on a technicality, and for several weeks my rear end swelled up to four times its usual size.
You see, in the end, that trip to the falls changed Russell and me forever. About a month later I went up to the falls and easily leaped off of Dead Man’s Bluff.
Russell was never the same again. Although we remained friends, he never again went near the cannon in Memorial Park. He never even went near the park if he could avoid it. However every now and then down at the gas station where he works, a car backfires, and he loses about a week of his lifespan.
I was fortunate enough to marry Mary-Anne McCovey, and periodically, whenever I get too serious about things, she’s kind enough to lean up close and whisper into my ear …BOOM!
“Oh yeah, and Elroy Stubbs had to return his certificate to the Mayor
 By Staff
July7th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Yesterday we published an article on how different communities were handling a situation where the world had reached its hottest day in recorded history July 3rd and then see an even hotter day on the 4th
 The article was an in depth look at what communities are up against when record setting heat condition prevail. Included in the article was mention of a book: The Heat Will Kill You First, in which veteran journalist Jeff Goodell makes a searing case that most of us think about extreme heat is all wrong, and to disastrous effect.
We wondered what Burlington was doing in the way of revising its plans or at least discussing with the Leadership Team what the city and its citizens might be up against. We sent a note to the City Communications department asking:
Can you confirm that meetings have and are taking place to prepare for the opening of additional locations where people can cool off during the intense heat waves. The response we got consisted of a list of the locations people could get away from oppressive heat.
The response is set out below. It was almost as if nothing had or was being done.
 What happens when there isn’t enough room for all the parents who want to find a place for their children to cool off ? Cooling Centre information: Where to go in Burlington
Library locations:
Aldershot Branch
550 Plains Rd. E.
905-333-9995
Alton Branch
3040 Tim Dobbie Dr.
905-634-3686
Brant Hills Branch
2255 Brant St.
905-335-2209
Central Branch
2331 New St.
905-639-3611
New Appleby Branch
676 Appleby Line
905-639-6373
Tansley Woods Branch
1996 Itabashi Way
905-336-5583
The Communications department added:
The adjustments that summer camps make during a heat wave include:
- Provide staff and children opportunities for additional water breaks
- Engage in outdoor activities in the morning hours in shaded areas
- Encourage staff and children to stay indoors in air conditioned rooms during the height of the heat wave; simultaneously, we also incorporate a more regular break schedule and utilize air conditioned, cooler spaces at times when heat is less intense but it’s still hot outside.
- Utilize splash pads, and some of our camps include swimming as a means to cool off
- Play additional water games as another means to cool off
-
 There are too many parts of the city where facilities like this just don’t exist.
By Staff
July 6th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
An evening listening to local musicians on the historic grounds of Oakridge Farm at Ireland House Museum starts on the 14th and runs through to the end of August.
The outdoor stage will feature local musicians on select Friday evenings throughout July and August.
Performances are from 7:30pm – 8:30pm, gates open at 7pm. There will be lawn games to play and light refreshments available for purchase from local vendors. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and relax while listening to local talent.
Admission is “pay what you can”, the suggested donation is $5/person (cash, debit or credit accepted). Donations will be collected at the front and back gates of Ireland House Museum. Your donation provides support to the exhibitions, collections management, special events and education programs that bring our mission to life.
REVEL Realty Inc., Brokerage is sponsoring the event.
Summer Music Series Schedule:
July 14 – Hayley Verrall
July 21 – Sarah Church
July 28 – Jeremy Guther
August 11 – Warren Jones
Aug 18 – Natalie Reis
Aug 25 – Dan Taylor
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