KooGle Theatre still looking for dancers with a yen for jazz

theartsBy Staff

August 10, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

Leslie Gray over at KooGle Theatre Company is still looking for strong jazz style dancers in their 20’s, 30’s for the Culture Days event on Sept 27 at 1pm.

Jazz dancersRehearsals begin Sunday August 23; they want to get the team in place as soon as possible.

These are usually fun events – email Leslie at info@koogletheatre.com

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Burlington imports a new executive director for the Performing Arts Centre from Richmond BC; Susan Haines starts September 1st

theartsBy Pepper Parr

August 10, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

The Performing Arts Centre has a new executive director.

Suzanne Haines will assume her new role effective September 1st replacing Brian McCurdy who has held the position since August 2013.

Susan HainesThe Executive Director is charged with developing an effective economic operating model for the performing arts centre, balancing between community-based arts groups, the Centre’s presenting series of programs and other community and corporate usage.

Haines will be the third person to hold down the job since the Performing Arts Centre opened in the fall of 2011.

“We received great interest in this position from across the country and beyond, and feel we have chosen an individual whose experience and qualifications are best suited to lead us into our 5th Season and beyond,” said Theatre Board chair Ilene Elkaim.

Haines was previously employed as General Manager of the Gateway Theatre, a $2.4 million operation in Richmond, B.C. As the only professional performing arts organization in that community, which has a large east Asian population, Gateway produced and presented theatre, acts as a cultural venue for the community through rentals and year-round youth educational and outreach programming.

As CEO of the organization, Suzanne was the community builder, and the face of the organization to the community. She is credited as being successful in converting the Gateway Theatre into a highly engaged community centre.

You can get your name on one of those seats and Brenda Heatherington will thank you and flash one of her smiles your way as well.

Brenda Heatherington had a great pedigree on the content side – many felt she didn’t get the support she needed on the finance and administration side.

werf

McCurdy ran a tight ship took moderate risks that paid off. He is going to be missed – not only because he was a decent guy but because he had the chops to do the job right.

“This is an important leadership role and while we are disappointed to see Brian leave us, we are grateful for his contribution and dedication. We wish him all the best and hope he will return to visit soon, as a patron and to witness first-hand the impact he has had here in Burlington and on this wonderful facility”, said Theatre Board chair Ilene Elkaim.

“Brian provided great leadership and direction and guided us forward with a strategic focus for the next three years”.

BPAC decorated

The opening night for the Performing Arts Centre was a glamorous affair – the place has yet to live up to its original billing.

Indeed, McCurdy steadied the ship and brought some financial discipline to an operation that was bleeding more red ink than city council could stomach.

Haines ran the Gateway for 12 years. She announced in April that she would be leaving the theatre. Brian McCurdy announced his plans to retire the second half of May.

The Gateway switchboard said they did not think they should be saying anything about Ms Haines other than that she left in April.

The Gateway has two theatres: a 540 seat Main Stage and a 100 seat Studio B. They also offered year-round acting, musical theatre, and technical training classes for youth aged 6 – 18; adults classes were also available.

The current Performing Arts Board is working from a Strategic Plan that McCurdy’s thumb prints are all over – that’s the good news. If the board can stay on that course and the marketing team continues to do the job they’ve done in the past – we could be OK – I think

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Bandits stay alive against the London Majors by taking 6th game 9-4; game 7 in London Monday night.

element_sportsBy Justin Lethbridge

August 9th, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

A tremendous effort by Pitcher Steven Dressler, earned the Bandits a 9-4 win to even their series against the London Majors and force a game seven. Dressler pitched 7.2 innings allowing seven hits and four runs, while earning five strikeouts.

After a scoreless first inning, Burlington exploded for six runs in the 2nd led by a three run blast from Centerfielder Shaun Cooper.

Bandit pitcher Dressler

Pitcher Steven Dressler, earned the Bandits a 9-4 win

After a back-and-forth 5th inning, Cooper would add two run shot for his fifth run of the series. Cooper leads the IBL with 11 RBI so far in the playoffs.

While London would score two runs in the eighth, Burlington had the game in hand.

Brandon Catena came in for the save and through 1.1 innings allowed no hits while earning one strikeout. Despite being down 3-1 to the higher seeded Majors, the Bandits have rattled off two straight wins in convincing fashion to force a seventh game in London.

Since losing the first game of the series, Burlington has dominated the Majors in London, outscoring them 15-3 in the last two games at Labatt Park.

The season needed a lot of improvement - but the community spirit is certainly evident.Burlington is one strong performance away from a birth in the semifinals. The final game of the series goes at 7:35pm Monday night, in London.

The Bandits were not able to win a single game against London during the regular season – now they are one win away from taking the quarter finals.

The winner of the Burlington – London series series will play the 2nd seeded Kitchener Panthers in the semifinals.

The other semifinal series will be the Barrie Baycats vs. the Toronto Maple Leafs.

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Burlington Bandits shut out the London Majors for the first time and force a sixth playoff game Sunday afternoon.

element_sportsBy Justin Lethbridge

August 7, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

A tight defensive game resulted in the Burlington Bandits shutting out the London Majors 3-0 to force a game six in Burlington.

Bandits # 2 at bat

The bats were big enough on Friday night to keep the team alive in what was a very tight defensive game.

It was a much needed win for Burlington, not only to stay alive in the best-of-seven series, but to shutout a Majors team that has scored well against the Bandits so far this series.

It was the Bandits first win this season against London pitcher Oscar Perez who earned 10 strikeouts while allowing nine hits and three runs through nine innings of work.

Burlington’s Dylan Perego earned his second win of the series. Through eight innings he allowed six hits and no runs with three strikeouts.

Leftfielder Justin Gideon got a run in the first as well as bringing in third baseman Levi Larmour for a run in the ninth.

Centerfielder Cooper got his second home run of the series in the seventh inning.

The two teams get back at it at 1pm Sunday afternoon, at Nelson Park.

A Burlington win would force a seventh game back in London on Monday night.

Bandits Burlington players celebrate the end of a double-header

The Bandits had every reason to celebrate Friday evening – it was a remarkable win against London – and the first shut out as well – 3 -0 Marvelous!

There are many that didn’t think the team was going to make it out of London Friday night – there is spunk in them yet.

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Bandits Left Fielder Justin Gideon: We're going to win tomorrow - after losing 9-2 to the London Majors

element_sportsBy Clinton Dixon

August 6, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

After a poor outing in game 1 against London,

Bandits starting pitcher Matthew St. Kitts could only manage to pitch one inning in Burlington’s Thursday night 9-2  loss to London at a Nelson Park.  He   gave up one run on four hits Thursday night before having to leave the game with a shoulder injury.

Bandits - bullpen didn't show a lot of hope

The bullpen didn’t really deliver for the team Thursday night.

Exactly what the Bandits had hoped wouldn’t happen, as their bullpen had been shaky the last few games, especially in middle relief.

Immediately after the pitching change the London Majors loaded the bases with no outs. Luckily for Burlington the damage was limited to just one run scored thanks to outfielder Justin Gideon. Gideon was able to record an outfield assist when he unleashed an absolute laser of a throw to gun down London’s Argenis Vargas at home; a call the Majors debated vehemently.

Bandits coach Kyle

Bandit Coach Kyle was expecting more from the team in the quarter finals – they aren’t out yet – but they are real close,

Every one of the Majors’ coaches came out to argue with Home-plate Umpire, Chris Walters, claiming that Burlington’s Catcher, Kevin Hussey, blocked the plate. London’s arguments didn’t amount to anything and Burlington was able to escape the inning down only two runs.

Bandits # 2 at batUnfortunately in the next few innings Burlington wasn’t able keep hold of that momentum, as London kept chipping away at the Bandits poor pitching. The inning would later come to an end thanks to some terrible base running by London’s Cleveland Brownlee.

After a routine groundball produced an out at first base, Brownlee decided to try and take home, only to be thrown out at the plate by about ten feet. The poor decision got Burlington out of the inning, but not before falling behind 4 to 0.

After giving up another run Burlington was finally able to get on the scoreboard thanks to some atrocious fielding by London. First the Majors’ Center Fielder, Julio Guzman, saw a routine fly-ball bounce off his glove; Keith Kandel managed to take second on the error before scoring on the next play – another error, this time coming from London’s Shortstop Paul Lytwynec. London would go on to record a total of four errors in the inning before recording their first out; unfortunately Burlington wasn’t able to take advantage of the sloppy play, only managing to get one run across the plate.

Things settled down from there over the next few innings of play before London blew the lead open in the eighth. Even the co-owner of the Bandits, Scott Robinson, was forced to admit that it was “a very good inning for [London].”

The Majors’ plated four runs in the inning to take a 9 to 2 lead over the hometown Bandits. The score wouldn’t change from there as London would hold on for the victory.

Bandits - rounding the bases after the 4th

The kids had a great time running the bases after the fourth inning.

The loss leaves the Bandits down 3 to 1 in the series heading back to London tomorrow night; but Justin Gideon, the Bandits Left Fielder, isn’t shy about how he and the rest of the team feel about their chances going forward in the series. “I think we’re better than London. We get base runners, we just need to cash them in and I think tomorrow’s the day.”

All in all it was a strong showing for the unlucky Bandits, who feel they’ve played well against London to this point. Coach Kyle MacKinnon knows that his team can win Friday night when they make the do-or-die trip down to London. “We go in with a game-seven mentality from here on out – you lose you go home. Hopefully these guys don’t want their summer to end yet and obviously I don’t either.”

Game 5 of the Quarterfinal Series will take place at 7:35 p.m. at Labatt Memorial Park in London.

If Burlington is able to stave off elimination Game 6 will be played Sunday afternoon at Nelson Park in Burlington.

 

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Call for Spirit of Sport public art submissions: $10,000 on the table - deadline September 8

theartsBy Staff

August 6, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

If you are of an artistic bent and you have something you would like to say about sports in Burlington there is a call for Expressions of Interest from artists for the creation of a series of permanent public artworks relating to the theme: ‘The Spirit of Sport.’

A series of three (3) small to medium-scale, exterior public artworks will be installed at three separate sports fields / facilities in the city of Burlington, Ont., Canada.

This competition is open to all Ontario-based, professional artists* and/or artist-led teams.

Click here to view the full Expression of Interest document (pdf)

You can submit your expression of interest on-line

Norton Park - mural

Burlington is currently spending on public art. This one is in the Alton community – there are to be three that are sports related installed and plans in place to put one mural in each ward.

Burlington has a long history of sports excellence, on both and amateur and professional

level. The city boasts a wide variety of sports facilities, parks, fields and other infrastructure
that provide community-wide access to sport and active living. These opportunities range
from children’s programming to training for high performance athletes.
Citizenship Court Judge Frank Hayden will preside on Canada Day

Frank Hayden has a rich sports history – he represents what sport can be in a community.

Burlington is also home to a number of notable sports figures including: Dr. Frank Hayden,founder of the International Special Olympics Movement; Melville Marks Robinson, founder of Commonwealth Games; Melanie Booth, Olympian-soccer; Angela Coughlan, Olympian-swimming and numerous professional and Olympic athletes and coaches.

Coughlin

A masterful freestyle swimmer, Coughlan was 16 when she won an Olympic bronze medal in Mexico in 1968 as part of Canada’s 4×100-metre relay team.

As such, sport is an important element of Burlington’s unique culture as it touches the lives of people young and old, of diverse cultures and geography.

Deadline:
Tuesday September 8, 2015
Budget:$100,000
CAD (maximum, all inclusive)
For more information:
Kim Selman:  905-548-0111 |
kim@cobaltconnects.ca
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Burlington wants to showcase its Pan Am Spirit at Sandcastles Festival taking place in Beachway park Saturday August 8th

 

Event 100By Staff

August 6, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

The annual  Sandcastles Festival that takes place in the Beachway Park Saturday August the 8th will get a big dollop of the city’s Pan Am spirit.

That Pan Am spirit is being poured onto and into almost everything going on in the city.

Sand castle

Can you improve on this? Then get yourself down to the Sandcastle Festival in the Beachway Park.

The city issued a media release that said: “Burlington is proud to be part of the TO2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games celebrations and felt that the Sandcastles Festival would make an ideal Panamania event,” said Mayor Rick Goldring. “As the games come to a close, we encourage everyone to come out, see sand sculptures take shape and enjoy a day of Pan Am-themed activities on the beach.”

This year’s Sandcastles Festival will feature a Pan American theme. Saturday’s main attraction includes a sandcastles competition held at Beachway Park and Pavilion, 1100 Lakeshore Rd. Sculptors of all ages and abilities are encouraged to register in one of three categories:

Family, noon to 4 p.m.

Friends, ages 13 and older, 1 to 4 p.m.
Child, ages 4 to 12 years, 2 to 4 p.m.

Saturday also includes sand-sculpting demonstrations by sand-sculpting masters Sandi “Castle” Stirling and Nick Blandin (winners of several North American sand sculpting awards), Sharon Nesbitt, (2010 First Place Adult and People’s Choice award winner), Raymond Poirier and Dale Andrews (2014 First Place Adult and People’s Choice award winner). Their creations will incorporate the Pan Am theme of this year’s event.

The Sand Sculpting Competition will award first, second and third prizes in each category as determined by the master sand-sculptor judges. A People’s Choice Award is selected by festival attendees who fill out a ballot. Prizes include a custom sand-sculpture trophy for first prize for each category and great prizes provided by Canadian Tire Burlington stores for all prize levels.

A nominal fee is required to enter the competition. Entrants are strongly encouraged to preregister at any city facility or via RecExpress to guarantee a spot. On-site registration opens at 9 a.m. and is first-come, first-served, if any spots are still available.

This has the look of a production line - serious stuff and a lot of fun as well.  Imagine families from different parts of the city competing against one another.  Next years perhaps.

This has the look of a production line – serious stuff and a lot of fun as well. Imagine families from different parts of the city competing against one another.

Saturday event attendees are encouraged to use active transportation and bike, walk or roll to the festival using the Waterfront Trail. There is also a free shuttle to Beachway Park from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Two shuttles will be running between the beach and two free parking locations: Inland Waters, located at 867 Lakeshore Rd., Burlington and the City of Burlington parking garage at 414 Locust St. This shuttle bus will be waiting in the bus lane at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre (located north of the parking garage).

Parking is free on Saturdays in all downtown municipal parking lots (with the exception of the Waterfront east and west lots at Discovery Landing/Spencer’s Restaurant).

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Burlington Bandits look to even playoff series with London Majors - Nelson Park at 7:30 pm

element_sportsBy Clinton Dixon and Justin Lethbridge

August 5, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

A huge comeback victory by the Burlington Bandits has given this first round series a whole new complexion. While the Majors have outscored Burlington all year, the Bandits have stuck around in most games including in Game 2. Despite losing 7-4, Burlington went toe-to-toe with London up until an eighth inning collapse.

A Bandits win on Thursday would even the series but it won’t come easily. Especially if London turns to Oscar Perez to pitch. Perez was not only their season leader in Strikeouts with 49 and 2nd on the team in wins with six, both marks good for 3rd in the league, but is 3-0 with 17 Strikeouts against Burlington this year.

Bandits Burlington players celebrate the end of a double-header

Will the Bandits be able to do the high fives Thursday night when the game is over. They have a solid chance of evening up the series.

While London has outhit the Bandits so far this series, Burlington’s 12 runs in the 9th inning of game three gives them the momentum. The last two games have shown Burlington that they can hold their own and if the Bandits can get it an early lead in game four, it could give them the confidence they need to overcome the higher seeded Majors.

Two things are clear going into Thursday night’s game 4 between the London Majors and the Burlington Bandits in the Quarterfinals of the IBL Playoffs.

One is that there will be a lot of runs scored; the two teams have combined to score 40 runs in the first three games alone.

The other is that this series is a long way from over. After Tuesday night’s comeback in the ninth-inning by Burlington, the Bandits still find themselves trailing 2 games to 1, but with a revitalized team that will look to make some noise going forward.

“The Box Score doesn’t really show it, but we actually hit the ball hard all night,” said Coach Kyle MacKinnon, who admits that the team was starting to become frustrated after not being rewarded for their good approach at the plate. “Once it did happen, the floodgates kind of busted open. Hopefully we can carry that over into Thursday night.”

If the Bandits do want to make a serious run at this series on Thursday night, they’re going to have to slow down two of the leagues hottest hitters – Cody Mombourquette and Paul Lytwynec, who have a combined batting average of .538 so far this series. The man who is tasked with slowing them down is Matthew St. Kitts.

Bandits Burlington's pitchers shut Toronto down

Is it an offensive game or a defensive game: the Bandits need to get early runs and then keep the momentum – they have been 9th inning heroes in the past though

St. Kitts gave up 8 hits and 6 runs before he was pulled in the middle of the fourth-inning when the two teams opened their series on July 31. Even though the numbers sound terrible, Coach MacKinnon isn’t worried. “I was talking with someone else in the league; they were saying that we’re probably in pretty good shape because they haven’t seen Matt St. Kitts have back-to-back bad starts. Now obviously you don’t want to bank on that, we’ve got to do our part as well, but it’s always good knowing that the rest of the league sees how good he is and hopefully he can bring it Thursday night.”

Giving St. Kitts that help will be Keith Kandel, Justin Gideon and Adam Odd, all three are new to the team this year. Gideon and Odd have been absolute superstars this season and this series especially. Adam Odd has hit 0.333 so far this series, while fellow IBL rookie Justin Gideon has hit an outstanding 0.571 with eight hits and three runs scored. Veteran Keith Kandel has been chipping in as well, batting 0.500 in the series so far, but it’s his leadership that’s helped the Bandits more than anything else so far.

“Keith Kandel, he’s our shortsop, he’s an import from the States. He’s played the last two years in Guelph and the year before that in Kitchener – so he knows what it’s like to be in the league and to go deep in the playoffs and make a run. He’s added a calming veteran influence to our team, which is nice.” Said Coach MacKinnon.

Bandits last gme 2013 - Dad and the boys

This is about to become an exciting series – will the public fill the stands?

All that’s left in Coack MacKinnon’s eyes is the bullpen. The Coach seems confident that the Bandits can win a close game if they take a lead into the eighth or ninth-inning, but is quick to point out that his middle-relievers need to step up and deliver on Thursday.

If they’re able to do their job, there is no reason that the Burlington Bandits couldn’t come from behind and shock the London Majors, but for now they’re going to take it one game at a time.

The game will get underway Thursday night at 7:30 p.m. at Nelson Park.

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First in a series of Jazz concerts during August at the Performing Arts Centre. Jude Johnson will open on Friday evening.

Event 100By Staff

August 5, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

It is a bit of an experiment – one that should produce excellent results for the Performing Arts Centre.

Free public Jazz concerts that will start at 6:30 pm on the plaza of the of the Centre

JUDE Johnson at PAC

Jude Johnson, a Burlington native, is a vocalist, songwriter and performer

Jude Johnson, a Burlington native, is a vocalist, songwriter and performer and is Hamilton’s Special Music Ambassador. She was inducted into the Hamilton Gallery of Distinction in 2009. She also received the Hamilton Arts award for Arts Education in 2011.

Jude has released nine recordings including her most recent Live on Pine (2013) with Mike Malone on horns and Carl Horton on piano.

“How can I keep from Singing” is a collection of vintage inspirational gospel/spirituals. Reaching Indie Gold is her CD, “This Heart of Mine” (2001) featuring Carl Horton on piano, guests Jackie Washington on vocals, Carlos del Junco on harmonica, Brian Lee Griffith on guitar and the string quartet “Panache”.

This classy, entertaining CD is a collection of classic jazz compositions performed with intimacy, grace and joy.

The place is going to nee an oxygen tank nearby for the next little while.  The search is one for a new Executive Director.

Free Jazz on the plaza of the Performing Arts Centre – an opportunity for people to see the Spiral Stella and take in some fine music.

Jude has also been the unseen voice on many radio and TV commercials, been featured on CBC radio and sung on over 50 albums with such diverse artists as Daniel Lanois, Raffi (more singable songs), Paul Langielle and Stan Rogers (Turnaround), and performed across Canada at countless festivals, schools, libraries and community events.

The performance takes place on our plaza from 6:30pm-8:30pm and our bar will be open!

In the event of rain, we will move from the plaza into the lobby.

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Rebuild of the Freeman station is coming along nicely - they still need help with a lot of the work. Get in on it now - when this thing is done it will be something to be able to say you were a part of.

News 100 blueBy Staff

August 5, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

Dates for people who know how to handle a hammer or are comfortable just tidying up a small construction site and have some time to pitch in and take the Freeman Station to the next level are Saturdays August 8th 15th & 22nd from 8 am to 2pm

The volunteers will get a personally guided tour of the station and a close up view of some of the artifacts that have been donated.
Activities (no special skills required)

• Paint scraping and sanding
• Old wood floor boards restoration
• Site cleanup
• Rubbish and scrub removal
• And the list goes on

If you decide to show up – wear sturdy shoes and bring work gloves and a hat. It could be hot!  This is a construction site so please do NOT bring children under 14 and NO pets.

FoF station master office + mural wall

This is the windows in the Station Master’s office which was also the ticket selling room. The space at the far end is where the mural will be done.

What’s New and Exciting!
It has been a very busy winter and spring. Interior restoration went on throughout the winter months and both interior and exterior work resumed this spring. The Burlington Public Art Council has selected the Freeman Station for a mural that will be installed on the east end of the wall facing Fairview Street. It will depict a scene from the station, circa 1906. We are extremely honored to have been chosen and we are looking forward to a late fall unveiling.

FoF ceiling - 2

The ceiling in the waiting room is the kind of thing they don’t build anymore. It will be restored to what it looked like in 1906.

We are delighted to announce that Darren Sanger-Smith of Structured Creations has volunteered his expertise to help us complete this project. He will assist in selecting the materials and finishes to replicate the original station to the best of our abilities.

Some of the highlights of our accomplishments to date are:

• the station now has new shingles; the roof and the entire roof deck have been repaired as well as the soffit and fascia. Roofing was installed by Desi’s Roofing
• electrical service has finally reached the station and we are currently installing the wiring under the guidance of L. Potvin Electrical with supplies from Gerrie Electric
• roughed in plumbing has been installed and the main floor handicapped accessible washroom has been framed. Plumbing was installed by KP&H Mechanical
• new entrance doors have been installed at both the north and south sides of the waiting room

But there is still a lot of work to be done – and work gets done by workers.

Looks like a good deal as fire wood.

The station sat on wooden pilings for the longest time – it wasn’t until Ashland, a company right next door stepped up and made space available.

It took the Friends of Freeman station a couple of years to actually save the station – the city wasn’t able to use the federal funds they were given to move the building, the then Burlington Art Centre didn’t want it; an idea to set it up along Lakeshore Road in the downtown core wouldn’t fly.

The sense many people had was city council just didn’t want the thing. The engineering department staff said the thing was going to just fall over real soon.

It took joint efforts by Councillors Meed Ward and Lancaster to convince council to give the volunteer committees a little more time to find a home.

The sign will tell you where the station is going to sit - and that's a step forward.  Next step - getting the Joint Venture Agreement with the city in place.

Ashland made the space available – then the company got bought by a large conglomerate – the deal is still in place – but it isn’t a twenty year lease. The Friends of Freeman will have to develop a really strong bond with the new owners.

While the building really belongs in the Beachway Park that wasn’t on – but a home was found on a piece of property next to the fire station on Fairview.

The building was moved the coupled of hundred yards to its new location, a foundation was put under the building and work on the roof and the outside walls began.

What you see today – while far from complete – is some distance from what was in place two years ago when it was a pile of rotting wood sitting on wooden pilings.

FoF station masters office

The grill for the ticket counter has been found – it wasn’t part of the original station but does come from the same period.

FoF basement

The floor for the basement will be poured very soon. The hope is that negotiations with a model railway club will work out and that there will something for people to watch. That would make the Freeman Station a very attractive destination

Help to complete the restoration of this beautiful old 1906 Grand Trunk Railway Station is now needed.  The vision is to develop an interactive railway display depicting the impact the railway had on the development of Burlington. The Station will also house a model railway and meeting room for public use.

The Friends of Freeman have raised about $250,000 dollars to date and will need about the same amount to complete the project. Over 1700 volunteer hours have been donated to the actual restoration. More than 2400 hours of administrative, planning, and fundraising have also been donated by our members.

We are looking for volunteers in the following areas and there are many opportunities to participate!

Membership
• Fundraising
• Research
• Newsletter
• Artifact recording
• Audio Visual and Interactive display planning
• Artwork
• Copywriting and Advertising
• Finance
• Carpentry
• Painting
• General Help with both administration and on site.

Interested in Becoming a Member?
Annual Membership is $10.00, a Life Time Membership $100.00 Please contact us at:
info@freemanstation.ca  Our website www.freemanstation.ca

You can send a cheque to; Friends of Freeman Station, P.O. Box 91536 Roseland Plaza, 3025 New Street, Burlington ON L7R 4L6

There are still naming rights opportunities. Wiser commercial WORDS will realize that the Friends of Freeman Station are actually going to pull this off – and when the place is officially opened – all the politicians that failed to help make it happen will be there to cut the ribbon.

FoF Mello with stone

John Mello wants to see you one of those stones – and he will tell you why they are worth the $100 asking price.

Naming Rights
Put your name, a relative, a friend’s on one of the many items available for sponsorship. Sponsor a Whinstone (What is a Whinstone? Drop by and you can touch one and find out where they came from).

Sponsorships start at $100.00 and you can go right on up to $15,000 for the waiting room. Please contact me for sponsorship opportunities. brianaasgaard@sympatico.ca

If you decide you want to show up on either the 8thj, the 15th or the 22nd – the address is 1285 Fairview Street – next to the fire station which is undergoing a major renovation. Use driveway on east side of the Burlington Fire Department Headquarters

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CineStarz - SHOWTIMES August 7 to 13 , 2015 - Pop corn is said to be the best in the city.

Cinestarz logo

 

Cine Starz Upper Canada Place
460 Brant Street
WWW CINESTARZ.CA

 

SHOWTIMES August 7 to 13 , 2015

INSIDE OUT G
Fri to Thur 11:10 1:05 3:00 5:20 7:20 9:15

MAGIC MIKE XXL 14A
Fri to Thur 11:00 5:15 7:40 9:45

TERMINATOR GENISYS 14A
Fri to Thur 11:00 1:00 3:00 5:05 7:20 9:35

SPY 14A
Fri to Thur 11:00 1:10 3:20 5:30 7:20 9:30

AMY 14A
Fri & Sat 1:10 5:00 7:20
Sun to Thur 1:10 5:00 7:20 9:15

I’LL SEE YOU IN MY DREAMS PG
Fri & Sat 11:10 1:15 3:30
Sat to Thur 11:10 1:15 3:30 7:30

SAN ANDREAS PG
Friday 1:00 3:15 5:10 9:40
Sat & Sun 1:00 9:40
Mon to Thur 1:00 3:20 5:30 9:40

WATER DIVINER 14A
Fri to Thur 11:00 3:00

 

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Burlington's Bandits gave the game a good try but they couldn't hold the London Majors

element_sportsBy Justin Lethbridge

August 3, 2015

BURLINGTON. ON

Friday: – in London, Michael Ambrose and Brett Sabourin each homered and drove in two as the Majors beat the Burlington Bandits 12-2 in game 1 of their quarter-final series Friday night.

Both Ambrose and Sabourin finished with three hits and combined to score three runs.

London shortstop Paul Lytwynec had four hits, an RBI and run, centre-fielder Humberto Ruiz had three hits, two RBI and scored three times, first baseman Cleveland Brownlee drove in a pair, second baseman Cody Mombourquette had three hits and three runs, and Chris McQueen added two hits and two runs.

Luis Pina (1-0) went seven innings for the win, giving up two runs on three hits, walking three and striking out two.
That was the first game of the quarter finals in the InterCounty Baseball League where Burlington is battling the London Majors.

Monday: The Burlington Bandits put up a good fight but dropped game two 7-4 to the London Majors. Unlike the first game in their best-of-seven playoff, the Bandits gave London all they could handle on Monday night.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Pitcher Rick Corrente came out in the 7th inning

After going down 1-0 early, the Bandits fired back in the bottom of the first. First basemen Jim Martin hit a ball right to the back fence to bring two runners in and give Burlington their first lead of the series. Shortstop Keith Kandel would add to the lead in the 2nd inning with a home run.

While the Majors would answer with runs in the 3rd and 5th innings to tie the game, the Bandits pitcher Steven Dressler held his team in the game. Through six innings of work, he gave up six hits and three runs while striking out three batters for a 4.50 ERA. Unfortunately for the Bandits, London’s Oscar Perez was better. Through eight innings, Perez allowed only six hits and four runs while earning eight strikeouts for the win.

With the score tied at 3-3 in the 8th, Bandits pitcher Rich Corrente would allow four runs on four hits to give the Majors the 7-3 lead. The Bandits wouldn’t go down without a fight, scoring a run in the 9th while loading the bases three times in the final two innings. They just weren’t able to capitalize and now face a two game deficit in the series.

Game three is at 7:35pm, Tuesday August 4th in London before the series returns to Nelson Park for game four on Thursday at 7:30pm. For up-to-date information on all the playoff action, go to www.theibl.ca.

Portions of this report were taken from the IBL web site

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Brant Day on Monday at LaSalle Park shapes up to be exciting and a lot different than past events.

Event 100By Staff

August 2, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

The Joseph Brant Day Festival will be the place to be on the August holiday Monday.

Besides partnering with the Toronto 2015 PanAm / Parapan Games the event has taken on a significantly different tone.

It will be a lively day at LaSalle Park where events start at 11 am and runs through to 5 pm.

The captivating Beshano Bike Trials will be featured, the Burlington Soccer Club field games and a slew of music, art and cultural performances of the “Americas” will also be featured.

The day will have an Americas flavour to it recognizing the diversity that the PanAm games brought to the Region.  Included in the bill of events are:

Beshano Bike Trials

The Beshano Bike Trials will be something to watch – expect crowds larger than those in this picture.

Saul Torres

Saúl Torres is capable of seamlessly tying together Latin, Funk, Rock, and Flamenco!

Beshano Bike Trials – 3 shows complete with incredible bicycle stuntmanship!

Musicians from the official band of the Toronto FC Major League Soccer accompanying dancers choreographed by the dance instructor and performer who opens the Mas Band launches for Carnival!

Saúl Torres who has emerged as one of the most singular talents of Spanish Rock on the continent, capable of seamlessly tying together Latin, Funk, Rock, and Flamenco!

Dan Secord native dancer in full dress

Dan Secord native dancer in full dress

White Pine First Nations Drum and Dance participants.

Dancescapes Studio with Salsa and Latin dance demonstrations and lessons!

Laura Spada

Farrucas – a Latin Fusion Duo of Laura Spada and Jorge Cuama hailing from Ecuador!

Throughout the day the Children’s Area, Museum Educational Crafts & Activities, Giveaways, PanAm Sports Challenges, Games and Obstacles, Interactive participant events including: Crossfit Altitude, Oakville Fencing Academy, Burlington Youth Soccer Club, Monkeynastic Gymnastics, Bradbury, Splitsville Entertainment & Better State Crew! Splash Park for Kids available, Hands-on Activities, Artisans and Vendors, the Famous Brant Day Silent Auction will be part of an event filled day.

And this year the food offering will be going far beyond the traditional hot dogs and burgers. Sylvia Hentz, Special Events Programmer has arranged for a food truck rally with delicious offerings from gourmet food trucks!

Food truck LUCHADOR

Taste buds will be in for a real treat given the selection of Food Trucks that are being brought in for the Brant Day Festival at LaSalle Park

The rally includes

LUCHADOR – Mexican Fusion / International Cuisine
DOBRO JESTI – Slovenian / German-inspired Cuisine
NUDULZ – Italian Food
MANGO CHUTNEY – Indian Food
URBAN EXPRESS- North American & European-style Steakery
CAFE DU MONDE – French-Parisian & International Crepes
PAPPAS GREEK—Greek Food
TROPICAL TEMPTATIONS –Premium drinks & desserts

Burlington’s taste buds are in for a treat.

ilaria-spada- Laura Spada

ilaria-spada- Laura Spada will perform at the festival.

Parking is always a challenge at LaSalle Park on Brant Day. Shuttle buses will be available to transport visitors from Aldershot GO Station once limited onsite parking at LaSalle Park is filled.

First shuttle bus run leaves the Aldershot Go Station at 10:00 a.m. Last bus leaves at 5:00 pm

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Canada Post provides a public statement regarding postcards in Burlington mailboxes - not a word from our political leaders.

SwP thumbnail graphicBy Pepper Parr

August 1, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

The City of Burlington has received complaints from a number of residents regarding what they believe to be disturbing material delivered to their mailboxes.

In a statement from the city, it is not attributed to a specific person, the city said it is not in a position to affect the distribution of these materials and add that they have received the following statement from Canada Post:

“We are responsible for the physical delivery of all mail in Canada. We do not have the legal right to refuse delivery of a mail item because we or other people object to its content. Anyone who has concerns about the content should either contact the publisher or simply dispose of it.”

And that’s it – not another word. The Gazette has received dozens of complaints and comments on this repugnant literature.

Stand up and speak outSome of the comments on social media:

“You know what really sucks about this all? The images are very painful reminders for many parents who never had a choice. This organization is obviously run by a group of uneducated, immature kids with too much money to blow on junk mail.”

“Well that was nice. My 13 year old just handed me the flyer during dinner. She fished it out from behind a desk because she was worried her 9 year old brother would see it and be scared. Disgusting.”

“Us too. Beyond disgusting and obviously oblivious to the fact that this government just legalized the pill version of said procedure.”

GhandiThere are thousands of comments like this being made on social media. What we haven’t seen or heard are public statements from the office of the Mayor expressing concern over what can only be described as vile.

There is such a thing as community values that are put forward by our leaders be they political, pastoral or prominent people who have earned the respect of the community.

This is the time for these men and woman to stand up and express the dismay, disgust and inappropriateness of this kind of stuff on behalf of the community.

Most people have a view on abortion; many people discuss this subject amongst themselves and arrive at a moral decision they are comfortable with. My own view is that life is the biggest gift mankind has been given and when it is forsaken – let us not demean it with photographs that can only harm.

To attach the face of a person running for the leadership of the country to this smut is as low as one can get. This is not what political debate is about.

Councillor Sharman did have conversations with the police who told him there was nothing they could do. Councillor Sharman could have said publicly that the distribution of this kind of material was unacceptable and that he wanted the public to know it was beneath the values of the community he represents.

When we do not stand up for our values – we lose them.

Related articles:

Is it hate mail? It is certainly disgusting.

Sick minds that sink below common decency.

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Brandon Wagner to be the Burlington Torch bearer for the Pan Am Parapan Games

element_sportsBy Pepper Parr

July 30th, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

Wheelchair Basketball Parathlete, Brandon Wagner is going to be the Burlington community torchbearer for the TORONTO 2015 Parapan Am Games Torch Relay.

Wagner Brandon with Mayor

Brandon Wagner being celebrated by Mayor Rick Goldring

The torch relay will visit Burlington on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2015

The Parapan Am Games Torch Relay is a five-day inspirational journey of more than 250 torchbearers who will share the Parapan Am spirit in 12 communities. The torch relay is one of the most exciting events as it sets the stage leading up to what
will be the largest Parapan Am Games ever held.

The aluminum torch stands 65 centimetres high and weighs 1.2 kilograms (or roughly the same weight as a baseball bat). With a burn time of 10 to 12 minutes, the flame can withstand winds of up to 70 kilometres per hour and is visible in all kinds of weather conditions.

The torch relay will invite communities to celebrate and share the Parapan Am
spirit throughout its five-day journey towards Toronto, the Host City of the Games.

The torch relay starts Aug. 3, 2015, and concludes Aug. 7, 2015, with the dramatic lighting of the cauldron at the Opening Ceremony in Toronto.

Burlington has many reasons to be proud of Wagner – he is a joy to watch when he is on a basketball court.

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Burlington Bandits Playoff Preview; can they take the London Majors?; they've failed to do that so far this season.

element_sportsBy Justin Lethbridge

July 31, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

Despite dropping their last four games, the Burlington Bandits managed to hold onto 5th place at the end of the IBL season with a final record of 15-21.

Bandits Burlington players celebrate the end of a double-header

Bandits whooping it up after a recent win – can they take that approach into the finals?

The Bandits started the year off on an abysmal 1-7 start but managed to claw their way up the standings. A 7-1 run in mid July is the biggest factor in their final seeding. The run included three wins against Toronto, who also finished 15-21, which gave Burlington the tiebreaker in the standings.

Unfortunately Burlington draws the London Majors in the first round. The Bandits went 0-5 against London this season and while a single run decided two of those games, the other three were blowouts. London handed Burlington a 10-1 pounding on the first game of the season and outscored the Bandits 39-19 through five games.

There is a bit of hope, however, as in three of their five meetings Burlington had an early lead. Even with an 8-0 3rd inning lead on July 9th, the Bandits have been unable to pick up a win against the Majors.

Bandit Gideon

Justin Gideon earned 32 runs for the Bandits

The Bandits must continue to get strong hitting from OF Justin Gideon whose 32 runs are the most from either team and tied for fourth in the league. London has the edge in the pitching battle as Oscar Perez and his 49 SO helped the Majors to a 3.97 ERA compared to Burlington’s 6.14 ERA.

This series marks Burlington’s return to the playoffs after missing out last year.

The best-of-seven series begins Friday, July 31st in London with game two in Burlington on Monday, August 3rd.

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Police Service Dog Arrow arrives in Burlington for his training

News 100 blueBy Staff

July 30, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

There is a new recruit on the Halton Regional Police Force.

Arrow1

Police Service Dog Arrow

Police Service Dog Arrow arrived for training yesterday.

He will begin his training with K9 officer Cst. Tara McLorn but is anxiously awaiting the start of his new partner, Cst Kyle Gibson.

Cst. Gibson and PSD Arrow will begin training together in September, a period that usually takes about four months.

PSD Arrow was imported from the Czech Republic and is 14 months old and like all police service dogs, is very eager to get started.

Follow the @HRPSK9 Twitter account to see what the Police Service Dogs are doing and you will catch a glimpse of Arrow as he begins his journey.

Cst Matt Lawless and Storm will head into retirement once Arrow has completed his training.

Brookville school + police dog

The Milton Brookville |School grade 4 class that chose the name for the newest police service dog to join the Halton Regional Police Force

In September Arrow will visit with the student at Brookville Public School in the Town of Milton. They were the students who came up with the name and pulled in the most votes.

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MPP appears to be challenging the Premier's BBQ flipping skills - she is up against a master!

Event 100By Staff

July 23, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

Burlington’s MPP Eleanor McMahon is holding her first annual summer BBQ: August 16th

McMahon at Up Creek - side view - smile

Burlington MPP Eleanor McMahon will hold her first BBQ in August

Is she aware as to just how high the bar is for her?

Does she realize that her Premier set a pretty stiff standard when she was in town a few years ago flipping ribs at the Rib Fest?

Ribfest Head+Premier+ Mayor

Premier Kathleen Wynne shows the locals how Ribs are flipped at the annual Rotary RibFest

McMahon is going to hone her skills over the BBQ in Hidden Valley – probably a good idea – and when she is at the Master flipper level she can hold the event closer to town

The invite to the event went out on the MPP’s email blast. While there was a map on how to get to the location – it wasn’t easy to find.

We’ve shown the map below.

The event takes place Sunday August 16 (rain or shine) from Noon – 3:00 pm

Hidden Valley Park Zone 6Location: Hidden Valley Park (Zone 6) in Aldershot

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Brant Day at LaSalle Park will have a strong Americas theme this year and a tie in to the Pan Am Para Pan games plus an interesting Food Truck Rally.

Event 100By Staff

July 29th, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

Poor old Joseph Brant – at least he will be at the day we celebrate his name and what he did for the city in spirit. And there will be WORDS

This year, the Joseph Brant Day Festival is an official partner of the Toronto 2015 PanAm / Parapan Am Games and is taking on a significantly different tone.

It will be a lively day at LaSalle Park where events start at 11 am and run through to 5 pm.

The captivating Beshano Bike Trials will be featured Burlington Soccer Club field games and a slew of music, art and cultural performances of the “Americas” will be featured.

The day will have an Americas flavour to it recognizing the diversity that the PanAm games brought to the Region.

Beshano Bike Trials

The Beshano Bike Trials will be something to watch – expect crowds larger than those in this picture.

Beshano Bike Trials – 3 shows complete with incredible bicycle stuntmanship!

Musicians from the official band of the Toronto FC Major League Soccer accompanying dancers choreographed by the dance instructor and performer who opens the Mas Band launches for Carnival!

Saul Torres

Saúl Torres has emerged as one of the most singular talents of Spanish Rock on the continent, capable of seamlessly tying together Latin, Funk, Rock, and Flamenco!

Saúl Torres has emerged as one of the most singular talents of Spanish Rock on the continent, capable of seamlessly tying together Latin, Funk, Rock, and Flamenco!

Dan Secord native dancer in full dress

White Pine First Nations Drum and Dance participant Dan Secord.

White Pine First Nations Drum and Dance!

Dancescapes Studio with Salsa and Latin dance demonstrations and lessons!

ilaria-spada- Laura Spada

Laura Spada

Farrucas – a Latin Fusion Duo of Laura Spada and Jorge Cuama hailing from Ecuador!

Throughout the day the Children’s Area, Museum Educational Crafts & Activities, Giveaways, PanAm Sports Challenges, Games and Obstacles, Interactive participant events including: Crossfit Altitude, Oakville Fencing Academy, Burlington Youth Soccer Club, Monkeynastic Gymnastics, Bradbury, Splitsville Entertainment & Better State Crew! Splash Park for Kids available, Hands-on Activities, Artisans and Vendors, the Famous Brant Day Silent Auction will be part of an event filled day.

And this year the food offering will be going far beyond the traditional hot dogs and burgers. Sylvia Hentz, Special Events Programmer has arranged for a food truck rally with delicious offerings from gourmet food trucks!

Food truck LUCHADOR

Taste buds will be in for a real treat given the selection of Food Trucks that are being brought in for the Brant Day Festival at LaSalle Park

The rally includes

LUCHADOR – Mexican Fusion / International Cuisine
DOBRO JESTI – Slovenian / German-inspired Cuisine
NUDULZ – Italian Food
MANGO CHUTNEY – Indian Food
URBAN EXPRESS- North American & European-style Steakery
CAFE DU MONDE – French-Parisian & International Crepes
PAPPAS GREEK—Greek Food
TROPICAL TEMPTATIONS –Premium drinks & desserts

Burlington’s taste buds are in for a treat.

Parking is always a challenge at LaSalle Park on Brant Day. Shuttle buses will be available to transport visitors from Aldershot GO Station once limited onsite parking at LaSalle Park is filled.

First shuttle bus run leaves the Aldershot Go Station at 10:00 a.m. Last bus will leave La Salle Park at 5:00 p.m.

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Bandits will play either London or Brantford in the baseball playoffs - chances are better against Brantford

element_sportsBy Justin Lethbridge

July 28, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

The playoff seeding for the Intercounty Baseball League hasn’t been confirmed yet; there are two games tonight that could change who would play who.

Bandits Burlington players celebrate the end of a double-header

The Bandits whoop it up after a win – going into the playoffs might we see this more often?

 

If Toronto wins their game against London tonight then Burlington would play Brantford in the playoffs.

If Toronto loses their game then Burlington would play London.

It looks like the Playoffs will start Thursday August 6th with Burlington having their first playoff game on the 7th

The Bandits might want to pull for Toronto this evening – their record with London hasn’t been that strong.

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