 By Staff
March 6th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton District School Board is releasing the findings of the Student and Staff Census conducted in the 2021-2022 school year in a phased approach between March – September 2022.
At this point we know how many students participated.
The release will begin with data on the identities of students and staff including language, ethnicity, race, Indigeneity, religion, gender, sexual orientation and disability.
At the March 2 Board meeting, a presentation of Phase 1 data of the Staff and Student Census was made to Trustees.
The HDSB conducted the voluntary Student Census from January to June 2021, and Staff Census from April to June 2021, as required by the Anti-Racism Act, 2017 and Ontario’s Education Equity Action Plan to gather and report identity-based data. The Student Census was completed by 78 per cent of elementary students and 84 per cent of secondary students. The Staff Census was completed by 75 per cent of staff.
Following the release of identity data, perceptual (how students perceive their school experiences) and disaggregated data showing trends and patterns in special education, academic achievement and student experiences, will be shared between now and September 2022.
“The findings of the Student and Staff Census are intended to support every community to ensure we are meeting the needs of all students and staff in the HDSB,” says David Boag, Associate Director of Education for the Halton District School Board.
“This data provides us with new information about who our students and staff are to fully understand the needs of all staff, students and families. This will help support success and well-being, identify and eliminate discriminatory practices, systemic barriers and bias to provide equitable opportunities and outcomes, and allocate resources to support students and programs where the need is greatest.”
With the findings of the Student and Staff Census, the HDSB will continue to examine disparities and disproportionalities in opportunities and outcomes for students and staff, prepare action plans that align with the HDSB Multi-Year Strategic Plan 2020-2024 and continue to engage with stakeholders.
 By Mildred Austria
March 7th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
When it comes to casino games, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy balance, ensuring that you never get too carried away when playing. While casino games can be a lot of fun — and more accessible than ever thanks to online casino gaming — it also opens up the potential to fall into a downward spiral.
 Let it be known that casino games at its core are meant to be enjoyed in moderation. Let it be known that casino games at its core are meant to be enjoyed in moderation. Many people like to throw terms around such as gambling addiction when talking about casinos, but it doesn’t mean everyone falls victim. In fact, you can maintain a perfectly healthy balance while still enjoying your favorite casino games. All you have to do is keep a few tips in mind so you can make the most out of your opportunities.
Understanding slot machines
Perhaps one of the most crucial aspects of casino gaming involves slot machines, as it’s one of the most popular games — while also being entirely luck-based. It’s not something you can win out with skill, which means you have to be careful when going for slot machines.
One of the best ways to maintain a balance is to set a quota for slots. You can limit yourself to a certain number of tries, ensuring that you don’t get too carried away. There are also plenty of slot simulators out there that can show you just how likely you are to lose (or win) on any given day. It’s all about trying your luck, and the crucial bit is not to push your luck too hard.
 Slot machines: They can be fun; they are a game of chance – set a limit and walk away when you reached that limit. Want to win? Focus on a game
The thing about casino games is many of them are based on your skill and ability to read the table. Slots are the only ones that rely entirely on luck, which means it’s up to you to make the difference when trying other games. If you want to boost your chances, it’s better to focus on a single game to help increase your odds of winning. Learning the ins and outs of a game will help you learn about how to win, especially when watching the experts play. You can look into fantastic jackpot games at CasinoDays, giving you every opportunity to learn your favorite casino game.
Understanding when to fold
 This hand isn’t going to take you anywhere. Fold. Last but certainly not least, there’ll come a time when you’ll have to cut your losses and try again another day. The slots can teach you all about not pushing your luck, but the same thing applies to most other casino games. Even if you happen to be on a winning streak, it’s better to stop while you’re still on top. It can be tempting to go for even bigger winnings (and it’s not an impossibility), but you’re very likely to go home with nothing if you do. Learn when to fold, and you’ll have won half the battle.
Maintaining a healthy balance when playing casino games is all about maintaining discipline. There’s no need to listen to anyone warning you about the dangers of gambling if you know how to discipline yourself.
 By Pepper Parr
March 5th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The pent up energy and creativity in the community is slowly coming out of the restrictions imposed by various levels of government
Drury Lane Theatrical Productions will revive their annual Music Hall at The Loft at 2269 New Street, running March 18th to April 10th, 2022.
Burlington’s favourite and longest running review show returns as the 41st Music Hall premiering on March 18th and will again showcase the great music of today and yesterday and the talents of members of our community in a celebration of Music Theatre.
 From left to right: Anne Kelly, Carrie Mines, Sheila Flis Photo credit – Merise Designs With Direction from Gregory Flis and Music Direction by Donna Dunn-Albert, you’ll laugh and sing along with our talented cast of Misses (Sheila Flis, Anne Kelly, Carrie Mines, Stacey Tiller and Jennifer Welosky) and Misters (Randy Bridge, Bill Everett, Don Montgomery, Evan Delvecchio-Williams and Chairman Gregory Flis).
Join them as they celebrate the return to live performance after months of darkened stages with recognizable classics from Adele to Sondheim to the Old Tyme British Music Halls of the Victorian era.
Drury Lane’s Artistic Director, Carol Mackenzie explains, “Artists are aching to get out of Zoom rooms and onto a real stage where they can stretch their artistic muscles and experience the true joy of performance and connection with an audience. And audiences are starving for laughter and the energy of communal experience. There is no better place to do that than the theatre – and at Drury Lane’s Music Hall.”
An audience member described one of our past shows saying, “Music Hall is like a “kitchen party” with music you live by, love with, cry because of, laugh at and sing along with. Music Hall is a belly laugh married to a tear rolling down your cheek.”
Buy Tickets and learn more about Music Hall at www.DruryLane.ca or call our Box Office at 905-637-3979. Follow us on Instagram (DruryLaneTheatre) and Facebook for more fun and information.
Celebrating its 47th Season as Burlington’s premiere musical theatre company, Drury Lane Theatrical Productions, a charitable non-profit organization, plays an important role in Burlington’s Arts & Culture fabric. In a normal year, Drury Lane impacts over 10,000 patrons, artists, musicians and volunteers providing the joys of stage musicals.
 By Staff
March 4th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
With the Covid19 restrictions being lifted and the new infections numbers and hospitalization getting lower and lower – is there not a good reason to begin thinking about the Sound of Music?
They have put out their call for volunteers which means they are working on a boffo program for the summer.
Imagine the Sound of Music floating up from the lake and lower Brant Street packed with visitors.
Click here and become part of the party
The Sound of Music takes place the week leading up to Father’s Day! This year, our Club Series kicks off on Sunday, June 12th and the festival in Spencer Smith Park runs from Thursday June 16th to Sunday June 19th, 2022
 By Pepper Parr
March 2, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
We bid our Contributing Editor and long-time columnist Ray Rivers adieu and hope that he travels well.
Ray Rivers has been with the Gazette for at least eight years during which time he wrote an opinion column from a small L liberal perspective. He developed a following that kept him one his toes. He also developed within the community, a better understanding on just what an opinion piece is. There are some who still resent some of the stand Ray took.
 Ray Rivers – who won the best that Trump would win`. I’ve been buying him good Scotch ever since. It was my pleasure to stand behind him and support him every step he took.
He made a point of providing background links to support the positions he had taken.
In the years I have worked with Ray he became a friend, a colleague – someone who made my life bigger than it was before I met him at an event and knew before he knew that he would make a fine columnist.
We will hear from Ray again – right now he takes a break as he does his best to cope with the situation in Ukraine. Ray covered a Canadian Army training camp while he was in Ukraine and delivered a couple of hundred Canadian flag lapel pins made a number of friends as well. Their safety is now top of mind for him.
Ray cannot be replaced; his time with us taught our readers that there is a place for opinions in a local on-line newspaper.
which brought me to Connor Fraser, a young man I met
A number of years ago I met Connor Fraser just before he left for the University of Toronto. I fully expected the young man to do very well.
Set out below is some detail on just how well he has done.
Connor will write a column once a month, he wanted to be more frequent but it takes time to get into the habit of writing regularly – so once a week for now.
His first column will be on social media.
Connor was born in Hamilton in 1997, 1997 is a long-time resident of Aldershot. He attended Waterdown Montessori School, Glenview Public School, Burlington Christian Academy and Aldershot High School, graduating in 2015. Passionate about the issues facing Burlington, Connor has volunteered for several local organizations and advocated to municipal leaders on building transit oriented, walkable communities. His career goal is to help Burlington – and Canada – navigate the challenges of transitioning towards a just and inclusive low-energy economy.
 Connor Fraser In 2020, Connor completed undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto, with a BASc. in Engineering Science and a major in Electrical and Computer Engineering.
Between 2018 and 2019, he worked as a member of the technology development team at Microchip Corporation (North San Jose, California) where he contributed to the design of computer memory for FPGA chips. While pursuing engineering studies, Connor volunteered for the U of T Human Powered Vehicles Design Team as a machinist and led the design of a rollover detection system for high-speed tricycles. During the summer of 2013, 2015 and 2017, Connor lived in Quebec thanks to support from the YMCA Student Work Summer Exchange, and the Explore Program and is decently proficient in spoken French.
Connor has returned to U of T to enrol in the dual Master of Global Affairs and Master of Business Administration program and is concurrently a Certified Financial Analyst Level 2 candidate.
He is a Senior Producer with “Beyond the Headlines”, a weekly public affairs radio show that airs on CIUT 89.5FM every Monday (October – April) between 11am and 12pm. CJUT is the student run radio station at the University of Toronto.
Connor describes himself as an integrative thinker who enjoys observing parallelisms within and between various subjects such as science & engineering, finance, psychology and international relations. In his free time, Connor enjoys throwing boomerangs, playing tennis, and hanging out with his amazing sister.
You’re going to like this guy.
 Jeannie Lojstrup
March 2nd, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
It’s safe to say that when people discuss tourism and Canada, they won’t mention the beautiful town of Burlington, Ontario. It’s simply not as spectacular as other destinations in Canada, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do or see there. As a matter of fact, Burlington is not supposed to be spectacular. At least not in a way most people are used to when it comes to spectacular things. If you didn’t know, Burlington is a quiet town located near the heart of the beautiful Lake Ontario. That means it has the unique ambiance and a soul of a lake town. If you’re planning a vacation in Burlington, you will experience a peaceful journey that will teach you to enjoy the little things. Here’s what to do and see in Burlington.
Spend A Wonderful Afternoon At Lowville Park
If you want to spend a peaceful day and enjoy the wonderful scenery Burlington has to offer, you should go to the Lowville Park and have a picnic with your loved one. There, you can enjoy fresh air, peace, and mild sounds of water. The beautiful nature at Lowville Park will heal your soul and you will feel like a new man or a woman at the end of the day.
 The Royal Botanical Gardens – splendid any time of year. Wander The Royal Botanical Gardens
For people who love flora, the Royal Botanical Gardens is definitely the best thing in Burlington. The wonderful site has both magical indoor and outdoor gardens and 27kms of nature trails you can explore. While you’re walking through the gardens you will have a chance to see 2,400 plant species. You have to admit, that’s a wonderful experience, especially for people who love plants. However, seeing many species of plants is not the only thing you can do at Royal Botanical Gardens. If you would like to try delicious local cuisine, you will be happy to know that there are two on-site restaurants with spectacular dishes made from vegetables and fruits from local farms. If you get tired on your walk, you should know that there is a teahouse where you can take a break and enjoy a cup of tea.
Eat Fresh And Delicious Food At Springridge Farm
If you’re looking for delicious local food, then you simply must visit the Springridge Farm. The heavenly farm is located just north of the city and it has a lot of fresh domestic produce to offer. The food is fresh because it’s seasonal. That means, if you want to eat fresh strawberries, you have to come during summer. The local men and women will tell you that the food is amazing, but that’s not the only thing this farm has. At the Springridge Farm, you can play games and experience the wonders of farm life.
 A quaint little spot in the downtown core with a couple of fine restaurants and a great cigar store Explore The Village Square
As we already said, Burlington is a small city and like most small towns, it has a beautiful and intimate village square. It’s safe to say that the square looks like it’s from another time. It’s like you strayed into a TV show that tells a story of an older and simpler life. If you want to have a peaceful afternoon you simply must go to the village square. Sit at one of the coffee shops, order a coffee, and simply breathe the wonderful ambient this town has. Admire the old buildings you won’t find anywhere else. The old houses will tell you the stories of the past life while you drink your delicious coffee.
Brant Street Pier
 The Pier – pride of the city on the edge of one of the largest lakes in Canada The most beautiful thing when it comes to Burlington has to be the Lake Ontario. The best way to experience the beautiful lake is to go to the Brant Street Pier. There, you can walk the peaceful beach and breathe the fresh air. The Brant Street Pier is beautiful any time of day, but if you want to see the spectacular beauty this town has to offer, you should go to the beach late in the afternoon. That will give you a chance to see the most beautiful sunset in your life. The best thing is, when the night comes, you don’t have to go home. There are a lot of events you can attend and a lot of fun things you can do at the beach at night.
Final Word
As we said, when people discuss Canada and tourism, they usually won’t mention Burlington town. That’s because Burlington is a small town and people simply don’t know what it has to offer. If you read the article, you saw that the town on the coast of Lake Ontario has a lot of beautiful things to offer people. If you plan on exploring Canada, make sure you go to Burlington and experience the wonders of a small lake town.
By Staff
February 24th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Below is an invitation from Statistics Canada to participate in a crowdsourcing initiative to collect data on Canadians’ access to and experiences with COVID-19 testing. Everyone is encouraged to share their insights, especially parents and people living with children.
 In this new crowdsourcing initiative, we are seeking your experiences with testing for COVID-19, particularly with using rapid tests. This information will help assess the use of at-home COVID-19 testing, access to rapid testing kits in Canada and vaccination status.
Please take a few minutes to complete the questionnaire and feel free to forward this email to others—the more people that participate, the better the data.
Participating is easy and secure
Click HERE to participate:
This survey is conducted under the authority of the Statistics Act, which guarantees that the information you provide will be kept confidential, and used only for statistical and research purposes.
 By Staff
February 23rd, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
From time to time a citizens group is formed that has a significant impact on decisions made at city hall. Plan B is one of those groups – it is small – less than five people; all retired or thought they were.
 Their concerns started to take shape when they became aware of some of the plans that were being bandied about related to the re-development of the Waterfront Hotel site.
 The Plan B people have been at this for a long time – more than five years. They have not always been heard.. The group was solely focused on ensuring that any redevelopment of the Waterfront Hotel :
Enhances the Brant Street gateway to Lake Ontario &
Extends the green/ open space of Spencer Smith Park
They acknowledge & respect the property owner’s right to profit from his investment, and that this will necessitate a “reasonable” amount of massing & building height. What tyey are looking for is a “Win Win Win” for all parties.
Emerging Plan B concept from Planning partnership gets close to what they wouldlike to see; it seeks to balance the Developer’s Current Concept with Plan B’s (the community’s) Concepts. The concept is premised on the following:
Achieves the Urban Design objectives for the Downtown
Achieves a Floor Area Ratio (FAR) that balances the base permissions of 5.0 with the Developer’s Current Concept which represents approx. 7.5 FAR
Buildings are located east of the ‘Thin Red Line’ , representing the view corridor south of Lakeshore Road, proposed by the Downtown Mobility Hub Study.
- A new significant open space defined by the ‘Thin Red Line’ located on the west portion of the property, contiguous with the waterfront park
- Buildings that provide a clear landmark visible from the park, Brant Street, John Street, Lakeshore Road and Lake Ontario
- A potential development yield that is viable and provides some incentive for redevelopment
Note: PLAN B neither supports nor objects to tower height
There are very significant difference between what the existing rules permit and what the developer is asking for.
 The Burlington Urban Design panel, made up of professionals who have no interest in the development put forward a number of recommendation. Few got anything more than the time of day. The Applicant’s Response to Community Input in Plan B’s Opinion
- Silent on/ Ignored most Public input & recommendations
– Waterfront Planning Study re: Key Policy Directives – June 2018
– Burlington Urban Design Advisory Committee – August 2021
– PLAN B – Thin Red Line
- The Application relies heavily on UGC/ MTSA designations downtown to justify intensification
– While the Complete Application was not submitted until December 17th grandfathering by the November 10th ROPA order is assumed
The Plan B people assume that the developer is prepared to let their case be determined by the Ontario Land Tribunal.
 The thin red line phrase came out of a meeting with city planners – The Plan B people took it and ran with it. Citizens’ PLAN B recommends:
- The Applicant’s proposed Official Plan Amendment (OPA) to eliminate the Waterfront Hotel Planning Study as a prerequisite for this application be REJECTED.
The Waterfront Hotel Planning Study will be completed within the statutory time frame of processing this application
The June 2018 Key Policy Directives already reflect key Community Feedback
Collaboration, good faith negotiations needed for a “Win Win Win”
Citizens’ PLAN B also recommends:
The Applicant’s proposed Zoning Bylaw Amendment (ZBA) to fit it’s proposed application should be APPROVED with Modifications.
Key community feedback from the Waterfront Hotel Planning Study, Burlington Urban Design Advisory Committee, PLAN B must be reflected in the application’s modifications
Limit building heights to yield of FAR 6.0:1 (per EPC#3).
A “good faith” compromise between Base Permission of 5.0:1 and Applicant’s aggressive ask of 7.76:1
Plan B thinks this may avert acrimonious & lengthy legal debates before the OLT & an unpredictable outcome for both parties.
The city is seeking response to a survey that closes March 1. Link to that survey is set out below.
Link to the survey is HERE
By Staff
February 23rd, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Black History Awareness Society (HBHAS) is a passionate group of multi-culturals, dedicated towards implementing cultural education into the public and institutional mindset towards appreciating the values of inclusivity, equality, and self development while depleting bullying, prejudice and inequality on any and all levels.
We are a “community” globally focused on mitigating negative relations towards all marginalized communities and individuals.
Our mission is learning, uncovering and promoting Canadian Black History towards a progressive inclusive future through annual events including the Halton Freedom Celebration: Jazz & Blues Festival, the Emancipation Art Exhibition, a HBHAS Gospel presentation, and HBHAS Presents – speaking engagements to the public, elementary, secondary, university & college students; businesses; youth mentoring; community groups; and, historical, genealogical and heritage organizations.”At this moment, we all face a choice. We can choose to press forward with a better model of cooperation and integration, or we can retreat in a world sharply divided and ultimately in conflict.” – President Obama, United Nations General Assembly Conference.
“Halton is the fastest growing visible minority region in Canada growing 78% within a five year span with Milton growing 176% in visible minority growth within the same time frame.” – Canada Census 2016.
“Burlington is the first city in the world to acclaim August as Emancipation Month” – 2018 Halton Freedom Celebration Festival – Dwight Lee III
“The Emancipation process started in the Burlington/Branford/Hamilton area, where two parliamentarians seeing a Joseph Brant slave screaming at her bounty hunter abductor, due to the Fugitive Slave Act in the U.S., took this incident back to Parliament initiating the Lieutenant Governor in legislating the 1793 Act against Slavery which abolished new slaves being brought into what is now Canada.; This promoted the, August 1st, 1834 British Abolition against slavery in most of the Commonwealth.”
By Staff
February 22, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Appointments to the following committees, were announced by Council on the 15th; took a week to get the list from the Communications department.
 The Waterfront Access and Protection Advisory Committee which was sunset by the city made some very useful contributions to the way the waterfront issues were managed. Burlington Seniors’ Advisory Committee
Burlington Inclusivity Advisory Committee
Burlington Sustainable Development Advisory Committee
Burlington Accessibility Advisory Committee
Committee of Adjustment
Approve the following appointments to the Burlington Seniors’ Advisory Committee for a term to expire on December 31, 2022:
Bob Chepyha
Kerry McGregor
Peter Buckley
Margaret Doma
Sara Elkabany
Ron Minaker
Deepak Sharma
Approve the following appointments to the Burlington Inclusivity Advisory Committee for a term to expire on December 31, 2022:
Ashley Wall
Rajan Chopra
Rajan Sharma
Approve the following appointments to the Burlington Sustainable Development Committee for a term to expire on December 31, 2022:
Dave Bourns
Dave Rokosh
Sarah Merriam
Approve the following appointments to the Burlington Accessibility Advisory Committee for a term to expire on December 31, 2022:
Ken Harris
Don Prescott
Patricia Debly
Doug Benton
Cindy Bond
 Committee of Adjustment, the only committee that pays its members has made some pivotal decisions on small property adjustments and approving requests for changes to a zoning. Approve the following appointments to the Burlington Committee of Adjustment for a term to expire on December 31, 2022:
Robert Martin
Filippo Capuano (Alternate)
Hany Aly (Alternate)
The disappointing part of this announcement is that the appointments are just for the balance of this year; all end on December 31st, 2022.
There are a lot of new faces, which is good, new blood is vital. However, experience counts for a lot. It will be hard for these committees to make useful decisions.
The Gazette would like to hear what others have to say.
By Staff
February 21st, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The province cut the public some slack in opening up things in the hospitality sector – they certainly needed a boost.
Burlington sent out an update on changes taking place at the recreational facilities as well as vaccination updates
 Capacity at gymnasiums that are used by community groups has been increased. Recreation facility capacity limits will be increased for rental, program and activity spaces, while ensuring requirements for physical distancing are maintained. Existing program providers and facility renters have been notified directly.
Drop-in recreation programs will increase capacity. Participants are still encouraged to register in advance. For schedule and online registration visit burlington.ca/dropinandplay. For information on how to register or to setup an account, visit burlington.ca/registration
Registered winter courses already in progress may open additional spots if possible, pending staffing, regulations, specific ratios, and maintaining physical distancing for example. Check liveandplay.burlington.ca for new spots.
Spectator seating areas remain at 50 per cent capacity, and change rooms and dressing room capacities remain limited. Occupancy levels are posted.
Proof of Vaccination and Screening
Proof of vaccination with an enhanced vaccine certificate with QR code is currently required for entry into City recreational facilities.
Masking and physical distancing is still required.
Those entering recreation facilities will be required to acknowledge posted screening questions at the point of entry. Pre-screening in advance of arrival is no longer required.
 Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture continues to emphasize that the “Health of participants and staff will always be a top priority. We’re looking forward to safely and carefully welcoming more people back into our facilities and programs. Increasing program capacities takes time so please be patient as we work through these changes.”
By Pepper Parr
February 21st, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Family Day! Great Winter weather – an opportunity to celebrate what we have going for us.
 Still on his feet at this point. We can let the pandemic protocol slide a little; everyone should be outside for as much of the day as possible.
There are all kinds of places for the kids to slide down the slopes in the ravines.
 It was a penny higher at the pumps as I drove into the office. Do however prepare for a bit of a jolt when you see the gas prices: $1.57 – don’t think the rebate they give us covers the higher prices.
By Pepper Parr
February 17th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Three more days to Share the Love and share the food you purchase with the Burlington Food Bank.
The drive that started last Sunday has collected 350 lbs of Food and $1400 in cash and gift card donations.
.
Merrilee and Don Fraser have worked tirelessly making telephone calls and picking up food donations.
The food donations are still needed; the local economy is not yet back to normal.
Related news story.
A unique group of people making a difference.
By Staff
February 16th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
City of Burlington administrative services will be closed for Family Day, on Monday, Feb. 21. For a list of which City services and facilities are available on the Family Day holiday weekend, please see the summary below or visit burlington.ca.
*Important information regarding COVID-19: The information provided below is accurate as of Feb. 14, 2022. In the event of any changes made by the Province of Ontario to current COVID-19 public health measures, please visit burlington.ca/coronavirus for potential impacts to City services and programs.
Residents can also stay informed about city news on our social media channels: @cityburlington on Twitter and facebook.com/cityburlington.
| City Service |
Holiday Closure Information |
| Animal Services
|
To report an animal related emergency on a statutory holiday, please call 1-888-264-3135.
The Animal Shelter at 2424 Industrial St. remains closed to the public due to COVID-19, however services are ongoing. For more information, call 905-335-3030 or visit www.burlington.ca/animal. |
| Burlington Transit |
Burlington Transit will operate a Sunday schedule on Family Day. For real-time bus information and schedules visit myride.burlingtontransit.ca.
The downtown terminal at 430 John St. and Specialized Dispatch will be closed. |
| City Hall |
The Service Burlington counter, temporarily located on the second floor at City Hall (426 Brant St.), will be closed to all appointments on Monday, Feb. 21.
Many service payments are available online at burlington.ca/onlineservices. |
| Halton Court Services – Provincial Offences Office |
Court administration counter services at 4085 Palladium Way will be closed on Monday Feb. 21.
With the exception of the Family Day closure, 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. |
| Parking |
Free parking is available downtown, on the street, in municipal lots and in the parking garage (414 Locust St) on weekends and holidays.
NOTE: The Waterfront parking lots (east and west) do not provide free parking on statutory holidays.
No on-street parking is permitted during a snow event and parking exemptions are cancelled during this time. On-street parking can resume after the snow event has been declared over by Roads, Parks and Forestry. Follow burlington.ca/snow. |
| Recreation Programs and Facilities |
Indoor drop-in activities such as swimming, skating, and drop-in gym times are offered on a reduced schedule over the Family Day weekend, please visit burlington.ca/dropinandplay for program times and online registration.
Looking to plan a private skating or shinny time for your family group? There are still limited hourly ice rink rental times available at Appleby Ice Centre. For booking requests, please email rentals@burlington.ca.
Burlington has a wide variety of outdoor activities to enjoy with your family during the winter season including:
- disc golf at Tyandaga Golf Course, 1265 Tyandaga Park Dr.
- skating
- tobogganing
- trails and multi-use paths
- parks and playgrounds.
Find out more at burlington.ca/outdoorplay.
Our Lending Library has winter outdoor equipment available to borrow at no charge. Visit burlington.ca/playlending for details.
Burlington Rotary Centennial Pond will be open daily for outdoor skating, weather conditions permitting. Pre-registration is not required. For more information, visit burlington.ca/pond and remember to check ice conditions before leaving home by calling 905-335-7738, ext. 8587. |
| Roads, Parks and Forestry |
The administrative office will be closed on Monday, Feb. 21.
Essential services, including winter control, will be provided as required. |
Burlington is a City where people, nature and businesses thrive. As residents continue to rediscover many of their favourite spaces and activities in the city, City services may look different as we work to stop the spread of COVID-19. The City’s commitment to providing the community with essential services remains a priority. Sign up to learn more about Burlington at Burlington.ca/Enews and follow @CityBurlington on social media.
By Pepper Parr
February 10th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
My friend Joan Krygsman is once of these terribly creative people.
She has a web site – stripedardvark – (https://www.stripedaardvark.com/) which is the first hint that this one is different.
Energetic, plays the guitar, sings, shows up in the darnedest places with her partner.
Completes tax returns for people who need help and sells rain water barrels.
Are you getting a sense as to what you are about to be told.
 The art is – well you decide. She has invented a game.
I’m not a games person – but later this week I’ll do my best to tell you more about it. If you want to get a head start follow the link.
The game will consist of a kit of coloured cards and will be on line as well in the very near future.
Joan is using a novel way of raising the money needed to get this game into production. She has been working on it for a couple of years – when Wordle took the world by storm Joan knew she had to get into production and has chosen to use the Kickstarter model.
To order the game and learn more about Kickstarter click HERE
By Pepper Parr
February 9th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Remember the group that wanted your opinion on what the “official” bird for the city should be.
It took them a bit but they now have a list of ten birds and would like you to weigh in on which bird that should be.
Nominations received from the public have been short-listed to the 10 finalists below:
-
 Burlington has the well earned reputation as being a city that went to some length to give the Trumpeter |Swan a safe refuge. Bald Eagle
- Black-capped Chickadee
- Carolina Wren
- Chimney Swift
- Eastern Bluebird
- Great Blue Heron
- Mourning Dove
- Northern Cardinal
- Trumpeter Swan
- Turkey Vulture
If you live, work, or go to school in Burlington, you can vote here:
Voting closes at midnight on Sunday, March 6, 2022, after which poll results will be announced on Bird Friendly Hamilton Burlington’s social media.
Bird Friendly Hamilton Burlington is working to get both Burlington and Hamilton certified as Bird Friendly Cities in 2022, under the new Nature Canada program. Selecting a “City Bird” is part of the certification process. Toronto, London, Calgary and Vancouver are certified as Bird Friendly cities.
The challenge for this group is going to get this past city council. The Turkey Vulture isn’t going to cut it – the Trumpeter Swan should be the hands down choice.
Let’s see what the citizens think.
Links to learn more:
Facebook: Bird Friendly Hamilton Burlington
Twitter: @BFCHamBurl
Instagram: birdfriendly.hamburl
Website: birdfriendlyhamiltonburlington.wordpress.com
Toronto, London, Calgary and Vancouver are certified as Bird Friendly cities.
By Staff
February 8th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington Green is inviting everyone to a fascinating webinar on February 23 from 6:30-7:30pm: The Mystique of Owls: An Introduction to Owling in Ontario with guest speaker, Bob Bell!
 Owls are incredibly interesting and majestic creatures “Bob joined us back in September providing a superb Introduction to Birding in a presentation so we are thrilled to have him join us again.”
Owls are incredibly interesting and majestic creatures. If you have ever wanted to learn more about owls and owling in Ontario, then you will want to tune in to this event!
Avid local birder and member of the Bird Friendly Hamilton Burlington team, Bob Bell, introduces the mystical world of owling! You can expect to learn about: owls in culture, the “superpowers” of owls that make them unique, tips for owling, ethical owling, and more!
Are you interested but not able to attend? No problem, this event will be recorded. A link to the video recording will be sent to all registrants following the event. Closed captioning will be available on the recorded link.
Register to attend the webinar!
This event is supported by the Burlington Foundation and NUVO Network.
 By John Pallister
February 7TH, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Have you just recently paid off your debt by benefiting from debt relief Canada? If the answer is yes, you ought to know that you have achieved a massive milestone; however, the question is how to maintain a debt-free life.
 The best way to live life is to live in the moment; however, you cannot apply the same rule to your finances. You might want to look at the bigger picture and start planning ahead when it comes to finances. Before we jump into the list of tips, let us give you a little disclaimer: the change starts from within. You will need to shift your mindset and incorporate certain habits that will lead to a debt-free life. Certain financial and lifestyle habits can lead to long-term goals and help you maintain a debt-free life.
Read on to learn more!
Follow a Budget
Following a budget is one of the most crucial things that you can do to live a debt-free life. If you want to avoid debt for the rest of your life, never underestimate the power of following a budget. After setting your budget, you must get over the temptation of allowing the budget to lapse.
To make a budget, you must note your monthly income and set aside the amount spent on bills, groceries, and other necessities. Then set a certain amount aside that goes to your savings. By having a budget, you won’t only be able to track your spending habits, but it will also help you get rid of the habit of overspending. You will be on the right track to a debt-free life by following a budget.
Open a Saving Account
Set a budget and open an emergency savings account. Budgeting is one of the most dreaded nightmares for many people – it might look scary at first, but the benefits are long-term. By opening a savings account, you will be paying yourself first. In other words, you will be saving a fixed amount each month in your savings account.
Now, let us talk about the importance of having a savings account and why this is essential for a debt-free life. The amount in the savings account is not only your savings but also a contingency plan for situations where you will need emergency cash, such as home maintenance and car repairs.
By opening a savings account and transferring a fixed amount into the amount each month, you will have peace of mind that you are ready to deal with urgent situations and that you won’t have to fall back on debt again.
Curb Your Shopping Impulses
Sit down and understand which spending habits of yours cause debt in the first place. Are you an impulsive buyer? One of the primary reasons that people fall into debt are that they don’t set basic rules to curb their spending habits – as a matter of fact, this is one of the hardest rules to master.
You will have to break down your buying habits into two categories: the first category deals with your basic needs, such as food, bills, and clothing; the second category deals with your desires – things that you don’t really need, things that fall in the gray area, but, things that you spend on nonetheless.
Let us say you need a cellphone – you will have to check your budget. Instead of buying the latest iPhone, settle down for a phone that falls into your budget. You will find it easier to differentiate between your wants and needs by staying within a budget.
Plan For Your Future
Understandably, the best way to live life is to live in the moment; however, you cannot apply the same rule to your finances. You might want to look at the bigger picture and start planning ahead when it comes to finances.
 A saving account for those special times. You ought to understand that financial emergencies can occur at any time and anywhere. Apart from that, you will also need to think about future plans, such as your dream vacation, car insurance, Christmas presents, etc.
While it might be tempting to hit the easy road, pull out your credit card, and pay for everything on the spot, you ought to remind yourself about the objective of living a debt-free life. That said, keep the credit cards in your wallet, and plan with a budgeting and saving account for those special times where you will want to invest some money, preferably without inducing a debt.
 By Staff
February 1st, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
In recognition of Black History Month in February, schools in the Halton District School Board have planned initiatives to celebrate and honour the contributions of Black Canadians, past and present.
This year’s theme February and Forever: Celebrating Black History today and every day reminds everyone that Black history is Canadian history and lives beyond a single month.
 A large graphic that would say: Black Lives Matter “Black History Month is a time to commemorate the important achievements, contributions and excellence of Black Canadians, ” says Curtis Ennis, Director of Education for the Halton District School Board. “This month provides our educators another opportunity to teach and discuss the strength, brilliance and achievements of the Black community, to acknowledge the diversity within, and the extensive role Black Canadians have played and continue to play in shaping this country.
It is also a reminder of our ongoing commitment as outlined in our 2020-2024 Multi-Year Strategic Plan to identify and eliminate racism and discriminatory barriers that limit the inherent giftedness of Black students.
At the Halton District School Board, we will continue to educate about, empower students and staff with, and champion for equity and human rights.”
In honour of Black History Month, schools and classes across the HDSB will be highlighting the contributions of Black Canadians and the African diaspora. Some of the events taking place to celebrate are:
Canadian author Yolanda Marshall will take students in Kindergarten to Grade 8 on a literary adventure through storytelling every Wednesday throughout the month (Feb. 2, 9, 16 and 23)
Renowned Canadian author Lawrence Hill will visit the Milton Public Library on Feb. 10 to discuss his newest children’s novel Beatrice and Croc Harry. Board schools will join the conversation virtually.
Sizzlin’ Halton will turn up the heat for secondary students with Chefs Wayne General and Delvon Greene as they explore the secrets and spices of Caribbean cooking on Feb. 15, 17, 22; this event is sponsored by the Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton
International Spoken Word artist Dwayne Morgan returns this year, addressing students in Grade 6-12 about ‘Black Excellence’ through spoken word on Feb. 24
“Black History Month affirms Black identity in educational lessons and resources, as well as our collective duty to continue the learning and conversation beyond this month into everyday teaching moments within our schools and broader HDSB community,” says Rob Eatough, Superintendent of Education, with a focus on Human Rights, Equity & Inclusive Education for the Halton District School Board.
Celebrating Black History Month aligns with the Equity and Well-Being goals outlined in the Halton District School Board’s Multi-Year Plan. The goal is to champion supportive and inclusive practices to ensure equitable access to positive opportunities and outcomes for all.
By Staff
January 31st, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
In the Region of Halton it has become the practice for the Director of Education to create a program that is their reaching out to the community to involve the public ia a public education event with a focus they chose.
Former Director of Education Stewart Miller worked with Stephen Lewis and Jesse Wente and brought them to the community. Covid19 limited what Stephen Lewis was able to do.
 Curtis Ennis, Director of Education for the Halton District School Board. The new Director of Education, Curtis Ennis has put together a series of public participation event, the first being a Panel on , Antisemitism: The Longest Hatred and will take place on February 7th at 6 p.m. virtually at www.hdsb.ca
HDSB families, staff and community members are invited to the Director’s Panel Series on Identity, Inclusion & Human Rights to raise awareness on historical and contemporary issues of identity, inclusion and human rights. The first session in the panel series will be:
Antisemitism: The Longest Hatred
Monday, Feb. 7 at 6 p.m.
This will be a virtual event, with the livestream linked on the HDSB website (www.hdsb.ca).
Registration is not required.
Panel speakers include:
● Dr. Karen R. Mock, Human Rights Advocate and Educator
● Bernie Farber, Chair, Canadian Anti-Hate Network
● Rabbi Stephen Wise, Spiritual Leader of Shaarei-Beth El Congregation of Oakville
● Sharon Khavkine-Binstock, McMaster University student and former HDSB student
● Eszter Reti, Grade 12 HDSB student
● A representative from the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA)
Those interested in attending the event can submit a question to the panel before or during the presentation through this Google Form: https://forms.gle/L5AxQvpErhR9wpkG9
“Each session in the series will explore how issues of identity and inclusion intersect with education,” says Curtis Ennis, Director of Education for the Halton District School Board.
“This provides an opportunity to create awareness of multiple perspectives of insight and analysis on how individual identities can be reflected and engaged in the broader HDSB community. This panel series aligns with the Board’s commitment to raise awareness of diverse community perspectives and the need to broaden resources to support inclusion and student achievement, as reflected in the HDSB’s Multi-Year Plan 2020-2024 and the Human Rights Equity Action & Accountability Plan – The Way Forward.”
Future sessions in the series include Black Excellence, Transgender Awareness, Indigenous Perspectives on Decolonizing Education and Land and Perspectives on Islam. These sessions will take place in the coming months, with specific dates to be confirmed soon.
Related news story:
HDSB appoints new Director of Education; hails from Toronto Board
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