 By Staff
October 19th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Halton Region’s Medical Officer of Health (MOH), Dr. Hamidah Meghani, has issued a letter of instructions to indoor sports and recreational fitness facilities to implement vaccination policies that require all eligible individuals to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 in order to participate in organized sports and recreational fitness activities in these settings.
 For businesses and organizations, this means establishing, implementing and ensuring compliance with a COVID-19 vaccination policy by no later than November 26, 2021 for all persons 12 years and older who attend an indoor area of the indoor sport or recreational facility for the purpose of actively participating, coaching, training, instructing, officiating or having similar involvement in organized sports and recreational fitness activities.
These instructions are being introduced to minimize the spread of COVID-19 and outbreaks, further protecting the health of all participants, coaches, officials, volunteers, spectators and others including those with weaker immune systems or who cannot be vaccinated because of their age or for medical reasons.
 Robust compliance with masking, physical distancing and other public health measures in all facilities used for sports and recreational fitness activities in Halton Region also remains essential to protect our community.
To read Dr. Meghani’s instructions for indoor sports and recreational fitness activities or for additional public health information and guidance, please visit halton.ca/COVID19.
By Pepper Parr
October 19th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
From time to time there are news stories that grow to something more than a one or two day event.
We have covered a few that were significant – and important.
The legal problems surrounding the pier: when a crane toppled and steel that bent much more than was expected was found to be below the required standard.
 It was a Pier that was built twice – at double the cost The end result was the tearing apart of much of the first version of the Pier and starting all over at double the projected cost.
Another important event was the dumping of un-inspected land fill on the Burlington airport lands without the required permits.
We followed that story for three years, stayed strong during the libel suit that was filed against the Gazette and Vanessa Warren and Monte Dennis.
 Tonnes of landfill from unknown sources was dumped on the air park lands. It is still there ruining at least one property for which there was never any compensation. The libel suit was dropped but the land fill is still on the site – and the city is the poorer by half a million in legal fees.
Then there is decision on the part of Vrancor, owners of the Waterfront Hotel, who are expected to take the first required step to demolish the hotel and replace the 9 storey building with a 35 story tower and a 30 story tower that would sit atop a four storey tower.
There are those who like the idea; there are those who think it is a mistake. The Plan B group certainly think it is a mistake.
The design of the towers is striking – it would be nice to live in it – but the Gazette does not believe those towers should be built on the Waterfront Hotel site.
During the pre-application presentation both the Mayor and the ward Councillor were given the right to speak. Neither made comments for which they will be remembered.
When first running for City Councillor Marianne Meed Ward was leading the Save our Waterfront Committee, demanding that the city not permit high rise towers anywhere near the lake.
 The waterfront is once again at risk Ten years later and all the Mayor had to say during the pre-application presentation was that the city had yet to receive an application. The first rule of stopping a development is to do everything possible to prevent it getting momentum.
If the Mayor is opposed to this development – and it this point we don’t know if she is or if she isn’t – saying nothing is not what the citizens of Burlington elected her for.
She was noisy noisy about Saving the Waterfront in 2010; she was noisy noisy when it came to pushing to get the Urban Growth Centre moved north and away from the Downtown Core in 2018.
She was close to mute when she had a chance to say something about two towers that would loom over Lakeshore Road if they are built.
The Gazette is of the view that few people fully understand what is taking place. There were less than 100 citizens participating in the virtual pre-application presentation.
In the two pictures set out below we try to give people an idea of what a 35 storey tower looks like when compared to what already exists on Lakeshore Road.
 The tower on the left is expected to be on the Brant Street side of the development. It is 39 storeys high, the Hotel is 9 storeys high which would make the development more than four times as high as the current structure. When set against what is currently the highest building in the city the difference is also very significant.
 The Waterfront hotel – stands 9 storeys high.  Bridgewater condominium, currently the tallest structure in the city.  The tower on the right would be next to the Bridgewater development and at 30 storeys plus a four level podium come in at 35 storeys – one third higher than the Bridgewater condominium.
 By Staff
October 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
We start with the city of Burlington within which there is the village of Aldershot, within which there is now Aldershot Corners. The Corners has five precincts.
There is a Preliminary Vision for the Aldershot GO Major Transit Station Area, and Aldershot Corners – a community within a village.
Located minutes from Hamilton at the western edge of Burlington, Aldershot Corners is a visitor’s first impression of Burlington when travelling east from Hamilton and Niagara on the Lakeshore West GO line.
The area is nestled within the Aldershot Village Business Improvement Area and focused at the corners of Plains Road, Waterdown Road and Cooke Boulevard. Part of the Treaty 3 lands, Indigenous People were stewards of the land for thousands of years before settlers arrived. Post-Colonially, this area was a major hub for brick manufacturing, and also has a rich agricultural past rooted in fruit production.
Aldershot Corners will continue to evolve as an urban area with a distinct sense of neighbourhood character, supported by a mix of residential, commercial and employment uses.
 The colour coding sets out the precincts – detail elsewhere in this article explains what is planned for each of the precincts. Taller buildings will be concentrated along the rail line and will decrease in height and intensity closer to Plains Road and the existing residential neighborhoods.
Aldershot Corners will be a vibrant, livable community with urban shopping and dining opportunities serving those living and working close by.
New multi-modal urban streets and active transportation facilities will better connect the existing community, providing enhanced mobility and improved access to the GO Station, leisure and recreation opportunities in urban parks and open spaces, as well the many other amenities Aldershot already offers.
The planners created a number of precincts, which are boundaries within which specified levels of development are permitted.
There are five within the Aldershot Corners part of the Aldershot part of the city.
 Mid Rise Residential.
Compact residential communities, with a variety of low-rise and mid-rise building forms up to 11 storeys closer to main streets. This Precinct will provide housing forms at a lower scale and intensity including family oriented and ground oriented housing to support the creation of a wide range of housing options, including affordable housing.
Opportunities for commercial activities at street level on strategic streets may be permitted. Policies will guide appropriate transitions from low rise residential development to more intensive mixed uses. Policies will guide appropriate transitions from the maximum height (11 storeys) to adjacent low-rise neighbourhood, which may include angular planes, setbacks and/or stepbacks.
 Aldershot Main Street
This Precinct will advance the Plains Road Village Vision and establish a unique community destination with a focus on a continuous retail frontage and main-street pedestrian experience along the frequent transit corridors (Waterdown Road and Plains Road E.) Policies will introduce a requirement for buildings to have a “lower building” design to create a pedestrian scaled environment at the street level. Policies will guide appropriate transition from the 11 storey maximum height to existing low-rise neighbourhoods, which may include angular planes, setbacks and/or stepbacks. Precinct lands that are adjacent to existing low rise neighbourhoods, will have a maximum height of 6 storeys. To ensure functional retail and commercial spaces are created, a wide range of approaches will be considered, including but not limited to establishing minimum floor height for the ground floor of buildings, and considering a minimum retail unit size. Opportunities for affordable housing will be considered in the Aldershot Main Precinct.
 Cooke Commons
Serves as a unique retail and dining destination creating a comfortable and vibrant pedestrian environment with active uses at the street level and increased emphasis on pedestrian and multi-modal movement. A flexible street is being considered to provide opportunity for a community gathering space and potential to close for special events.
Mixed-use buildings throughout the Precinct contribute towards the creation of lively, vibrant and people-oriented places. Along the west side of the street, heights range up to 19 storeys maximum adjacent to the GO Central Precinct and up to 11 storeys maximum generally along Cooke Boulevard. On the east side, there will be up to 11 storeys maximum generally along Cooke Boulevard which gradually steps down to 6 storeys with appropriate transitions, which may include angular planes, setbacks and/or stepbacks, to the adjacent low-rise residential neighbourhood. Policies will introduce a requirement for buildings to include a “lower building” design to create a pedestrian scaled environment at the street level. Direction to support the function of these areas to accommodate loading and services and support a wide range of retail use will be investigated and imbedded in policy.
Opportunities for affordable housing will be considered in the Cooke Commons Precinct.
 Emery Commons
This precinct will accommodate a concentration of residential, retail, employment and commercial uses.
Opportunity exists for a higher concentration of high density residential due to its proximity to an existing public park, a potential new major public park and the GO Central precinct. Mixed-use buildings, of varying heights to a maximum of 19 storeys, contribute towards the creation of lively, vibrant and people-oriented places. Opportunities for affordable housing will be considered in the Emery Commons Precinct.
 Aldershot GO Central
The preeminent destination for Major Office, affordable housing and urban format retail in this MTSA focusing the tallest buildings (maximum 30 stories) close to the GO station. Where Aldershot GO Central abuts Waterdown Road and Masonry Court policies will require pedestrian orientation development, including an emphasis enhanced public realm and enhanced spaces for waiting for transit. There is particular emphasis on the need to design a functional, safe and accessible transit plaza. Polices will ensure that the MTSA will accommodate a proportional mix of residential and employment opportunities and ensure that the Aldershot GO Central precinct will be planned to accommodate major office employment.
 This map provides additional detail on what is planned for the different parts of what is being called Aldershot Corners. What is it that is driving these changes?
KEY CHANGES – A number of things have changed since the Draft Precinct Plans were presented to the public and Burlington City Council in 2018. The following highlights the key changes that have been made or are being considered and the drivers for these changes.
Aldershot GO MTSA –
MTSA Designation and Boundary – Identified in Provincial Policy, the Regional Official Plan must first delineate and assign density targets to Major Transit Station Areas. Regional Official Plan Amendment (ROPA) 48 delineated the boundary for the Aldershot GO MTSA which identified the removal of existing parks (Hidden Valley Park, Grove Park and Aldershot Park), areas north of the rail line, and established neighbourhoods from the 2018 Aldershot GO Mobility Hub boundary.
Employment – Regional direction through Regional Official Plan Amendment 48 is to include employment within MTSAs. While Aldershot GO MTSA does not have an employment only precinct, Major Office employment type uses will be required in the Aldershot GO Precinct and it will be outlined through policy. Other employment types, such as retail, institutional and personal services is broadly encouraged throughout a number of the mixed-use precincts. Specific targets for Major Office will be established.
 Comments made by the developer suggested there would be some retail – a Starbucks Coffee shop – but no mention of a supermarket – something the ward Councillor is anxious to see. Retail – The Aldershot MTSA will provide two unique pedestrian focused retail experiences. The Aldershot Main Street Precinct provides ground floor retail with a main-street pedestrian experience. Policies will be considered for ground floor heights and minimum retail unit sizes to ensure functional spaces are provided. The Cooke Commons Precinct will serve as a unique retail and dining destination leading to the GO Station, with a focus on creating a comfortable and vibrant pedestrian environment with active uses at the street level and increased emphasis on pedestrian and multi-modal movement. In addition to those unique areas the opportunity to require, or in some cases encourage retail in every other precinct to support the day to day needs of existing and future residents.
 The only decent park is LaSalle Park; a 15 minute hike that will be stressed once all the residential development is completed. Great park with splash pads and a wading pool. Upgrades will be needed at some point. Public Parks and Linear Parks – As noted in the Provincial Policy Statement publicly accessible built and natural settings including parklands are important ways to promote healthy, active communities. Potential locations for parks are identified with a green tree symbol. The City is considering other opportunities for wider corridors along streets to act as linear parks to provide valuable open space/park space and facilitate connections. A linear park along Masonry Court connecting Hidden Valley Park with Grove Park will connect residents, employees and visitors to existing green spaces. A new linear park extending along Cooke Boulevard from Plains Road East to new development north of Masonry Court will focus on providing opportunities to linger and to support safe, comfortable pedestrian access to the station. Enhanced connections, linear parks, new parks and other connections are required throughout the MTSA in order to facilitate safe and more direct pedestrian and active transportation routes to and from the GO station.
Public Service – As noted in the Provincial Policy Statement, public services such as healthcare, education, emergency and protective services, cultural activities and civic administration are necessary to sustain healthy, liveable and safe communities. Key precincts will provide community spaces, alongside new residential and retail development in key locations. In addition to that new focus in key precincts the “PS” icon remains in key locations where the consideration of the incorporation of public service facilities is critical. Public services will be located strategically throughout the MTSA and policies will be developed to ensure that these services are located strategically to support population and employment growth in coordination will be coordinated with future development.
Integrated Mobility – In 2019, the City launched its Integrated Mobility Plan (IMP). This plan establishes a vision of safe, accessible, sustainable, balanced and livable mobility for the City of Burlington. The goals of this plan represent a shift from a focus on cars to more choice in transportation options; with a target of 20+% of trips in urban areas to shift towards transportation choices other than personal vehicles. A Transportation Assessment is being undertaken to identify the local street network for each MTSA (see technical studies below) which will integrate the vision and goals of the city-wide IMP.
 Newly built part of Station West – not much in the way of a complete street or parkland for that matter. Complete Streets (formerly referred to as Green Streets in the 2018 Draft Precinct Plans) – The City’s new Official Plan identifies the need for complete streets strategy for all future street and road projects (new construction, reconstruction, resurfacing and rehabilitation). The OP also states that MTSA primary and secondary connectors (Plains Road East and Waterdown Road) shall be complete streets. With a long-term view, the City is proposing that all existing and proposed streets in the MTSA allow for inclusion of some complete street elements over time which could include space for pedestrians, cyclists, transit, and streetscaping in addition to travel lanes for cars.
Active Transportation – The City is committed to implementing active transportation corridors to improve connections and transportation choice. Planned active transportation corridors have been updated to be consistent with the 2021 Cycling Master Plan and the 2015 Community Trails Strategy. Active transportation corridors and connections proposed through consultation are also shown in the MTSA.
Climate Change & Sustainability – The City’s Climate Action Plan establishes a net carbon neutral goal by 2050 for community emissions. Work continues to identify ways for the City of Burlington to address the impacts of climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In addition to the transit and active transportation focus of the Aldershot GO MTSA consideration will be given to other ways future development of this MTSA could address climate change including encourage building energy efficiency, urban design policies to address heat and tree cover, and opportunities to consider district energy.
 Public Art at the intersection of Waterdown and Plains Road Frequent Transit Corridors – Plains Road E. and Waterdown Road are identified as Frequent Transit Corridors in the City’s new Official Plan. Pedestrian-oriented development is desired along these corridors to support the frequent transit service. Policies will be identified to encourage pedestrian-oriented development along these corridors including consideration of lower heights at street level, urban design and public realm requirements. Urban design and public realm can also improve the experience for those waiting for transit along these corridors.
Technical Studies Underway – The following technical studies are currently being undertaken and may result in the need for further revision of the Precincts.
- Land Use Compatibility – There are some major facilities in and around the Aldershot MTSA which may require separation from sensitive land uses like residences, day care centres and education and health facilities. Work is being completed to confirm the potential for land use compatibility issues within the MTSA and to develop a framework for technical assessments to be completed as part of future development proposals. This work may result in changes to the precincts or area specific policies in the Plan to guide land use change and minimize the potential for land use compatibility issues over time.
- Transportation Assessment – The current Aldershot GO MTSA shows the planned South Service Road and Masonry Court as shown in the new Official Plan as well as the proposed new streets included in the 2018 Mobility Hub. Traffic congestion has been regularly raised as a concern by the public and a transportation assessment is being undertaken to determine the potential impact of adding the new people and jobs to this area. In keeping with the vision of the IMP, it is anticipated that the Transportation Assessment results will focus on non-auto infrastructure and ways to shift people to other transportation choices. One of the key outcomes of the Transportation Assessment will be to confirm the need and location for any new local streets to support safe, efficient movement throughout the area.
- Inclusionary Zoning – As part of the City’s Housing Strategy, an assessment of options to implement Inclusionary Zoning (IZ) is being undertaken. IZ is a tool to integrate affordable housing into future development. IZ can only be applied to MTSAs identified as protected by the Province and Regional Official Plan Amendment 48 which requires the City to establish affordable housing targets for its Major Transit Station Areas. Should IZ be recommended for Aldershot GO, there will be a need for the appropriate guidance on how the tool will be applied.
- Environmental & Hazard Lands –Studies are underway to identify areas that may be prone to flooding. Completed Flood studies for Aldershot are currently being reviewed by Conservation Halton. Identified areas may need to be protected through policies within some of the Aldershot GO MTSA Precincts. A Provincially Significant Wetland has been identified to the northeast of the MTSA and any potential policy requirements are being assessed through updates to an Environmental Impact Study being undertaken as part of the background technical work.
Heights and Transition – The maximum heights in the Aldershot GO Precincts generally remain as presented in 2018. There have been some minor changes including changing lands just east of Cooke Boulevard from Emery/Cooke Commons Precinct with a maximum height of 19 storeys to a new Cooke Common Precinct with a maximum height of 11 storeys. Policies will be included to guide transition from the maximum height, typically closer to the main streets, to lower rise buildings adjacent to existing low-rise neighbourhoods.
There will be an in depth look at the Plans for the Burlington GO station area on October 19th and a similar event for the area around the Appleby GO station on October 26th. On November 4th there will be a review of the plans for all three MTSA’s.
All will be virtual events.
There is a WORKBOOK for those who want to pass their views and opinions along to the planners. The link to the WORKBOOK is HERE
 By Staff
October 16th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The people on the Burlington Historical Society take the work they do very seriously. They collaborate with the Heritage Advisory Committee on which they have two members.
Most of the recommendations that come out of the Advisory Committee are small in nature. The setting up of a plaque, recommending grants or loans that upgrade heritage homes and do something to ensure that they are kept in good condition.
 The Edward VII Fountain is one of the city’s oldest pieces of the city’s Heritage. It has been around for more than 100 years. Recently the Advisory Committee took on the task of rehabilitating what has been known as the King Edward VII Fountain.
It’s not a particularly attractive item but it is loaded with history. It has been in place, at various locations in the city, for more than 100 years.
The Heritage people are sticklers about detail – they take the view that if they are going to do something they want to do it right.
Alan Harrington who, along with other members of the Heritage Committee, shepherded the refurbishment of the Fountain explains that the “sorry old unit was hauled away from the corner of City Hall on the May 24 2021 weekend for some much needed repairs.
“Repairs needed because this Hamilton-made cast iron unit has sat on Brant Street for over a century of Burlington’s weather.
“Its last tune up was for the Queen’s Jubilee in 1977.
“About a month ago – we reported the fountain was refurbished and reinstalled back to its rightful spot.
“It looked good…. – however there was one part missing.. the glass globe on top?
“Apparently some part was back ordered in the supply chain?
“Not to worry – that part arrived last week and the globe was installed and plugged in.
“The globe now shines at night with a pearly luminescence – perfect for its location near the Cenotaph.
“Not sure – but we think the last time the globe may have been lit – was by natural gas before World War I ?
“Big thanks to the City Crew for their excellent work – and adding the crowning glory.”
Crowning Glory might be a stretch – but with repairs and a fresh coat of paint it is a handsome addition to what will soon be known as Veteran Square.
 By Staff
October 16th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Despite pandemic limitations life goes on – and the Art Gallery has managed to keep up with a flow of information and opportunities to be involved.
There is an interesting series of Zoom events – one that takes a deeper look at the work of an artist at the Gallery
 The next Step into the Studio virtual event series takes place on October 26th at 10:30; a virtual visit to the lively studio of ceramic artist Wayne Cardinalli.
Register HERE for that event.
The Gallery is open to the public. One recent visitor explained her visit experience this way:
“I came to visit on an early Saturday afternoon and had the place practically to myself. It was very peaceful and relaxing to wander through the building viewing the various exhibits of artworks. They also have a small conservatory (where you can even purchase small plants!) which I was not anticipating whatsoever. I found I spent a good chunk of my visit amongst the flora.
“Definitely recommend if you need a small (not to mention free!) time filler and are in the area.”
There are two Workshops you might want to look into
 Microbial Sculpture
October 23 | 1 PM
Online, via Zoom
Register Now
alt-text as poetry
October 25 | 6 PM
Online, via Zoom
Register Now
 By Pepper Parr
October 16th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Alan Harrington is an accountant, sometimes called a number cruncher, which isn’t really accurate either.
Harrington has a thing about dates, which are numbers.
He revels in dates that don’t mean a thing to most people.
Take last Thursday – for Harrington it was important because 70 years ago on that date Princess Elizabeth was in Burlington. True!
Take the following with a grain of salt!
“October 1951: HRH Princess Elizabeth and her husband the Duke of Edinburgh arrive in Toronto to ride a ten-car Royal train made up of equipment provided by CN and CP.
 “It included two government cars used by Elizabeth’s parents on the 1939 Royal Tour; the train was powered by CN Northern No. 6401.
“It departed Toronto for Niagara Falls early on the morning of October 14 most likely passing through Burlington. “I have vivid memories of my journey across the country in 1951,” she said of the trip.”
“OK she was only a princess at the time – and she was riding westbound at high speed past the station – at about 7:00 am so she probably didn’t even see it through her royal passenger car window.
“If she was looking – she would have seen a Union Jack Flag hanging there for her.
“Less than four months later, upon the death of her father King George VI, the princess became Queen Elizabeth II.
 The Princess with her husband Duke of Edinburgh – were they stopped in Burlington? “But “that second” at the Station must have been so dear to her – that even to this day – she still calls herself Queen Elizabeth “the Second”
The above was a “humorous” email to the members of the Freeman Station. The G&M newspaper is obviously photo shopped.
It is true the princess was in town on that day and many people showed up to see the train – but it sped past without slowing and all the curtains were drawn and people left disappointed.
That original Union Jack flag from the Station is STILL around and currently on display in the Fort Macleod museum in Alberta !!
 By Staff
October 14th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
They have been doing it for years and weren’t about to let a pandemic get in the way.
The Annual Soup Bowl event is now underway.
 Participation is easy: 1. Chose a Bowl, 2. Plan Your Pick-up, 3. Enjoy your soup! Bowl sales have BEGUN and the event runs from November 8th-30th.
The event is a favourite fundraiser – social distance style! One-of-a-kind bowls are fresh out of the kiln waiting to be filled with locally produced soups.
Five of the restaurants taking part are located in the Downtown Core.
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
 By Pepper Parr
October 14th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
We are in the final ten days of running a readership survey.
Some interesting responses.
A few days ago we published a piece on what people thought about the size of the current city council.
Today – we want to show what readers thought when we asked which Council members had shown the most growth.
 Those numbers might have a few council members re-thinking their chances of being elected Mayor going forward. At least two the Gazette knows have said they like the look of the Chain of Office.
The choices surprised us. We will need to match up which wards the responses came from to make the data more relevant. The Gazette’s view, garnered from more than four years of watching these people was quite a bit different.
The data we are showing here is from survey results collected in the first few days of the survey.
It will be interesting to see what there is in the way of changes once the survey is closed.
It would be very difficult for any one person to respond to the servery more than once – unless they used a different computer each time
By Staff
October 14th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Community organizations can now submit applications to the Halton Region Community Investment Fund (HRCIF) for non-profit human service programs and initiatives that enhance the health, safety and well-being of Halton residents.
Applicants must describe how they will incorporate the latest COVID-19 public health guidance and how their program or initiative aligns with Halton’s overall approach to community safety and well-being.
“We are pleased to support the important work of local non-profits through the Halton Region Community Investment Fund,” said Regional Chair Gary Carr. “I would like to thank these organizations for delivering vital services to some of our most vulnerable residents and working alongside us to keep Halton a safe and healthy community.”
Funding is available in single year and multi-year grants through two categories:
Category One: Provides up to one year of funding, to a maximum of $30,000. Non-profit, charitable or unincorporated community organizations can apply to fund short-term, small capital and/or innovative projects.
Category Two: Provides up to three years of funding to registered charities for programs and initiatives.
Organizations that meet eligibility criteria may submit one application in each funding category. The initial application deadline for both categories is Monday, November 1, 2021 at 2 p.m.
Additional opportunities to apply for HRCIF funding will be available in 2022 for programs and initiatives that help respond to emerging community needs.
For more information about HRCIF guidelines, upcoming virtual information sessions and the application process, please visit the HRCIF webpage on halton.ca or call 311.
 By Pepper Parr
October 12th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The City of Burlington’s loose-leaf collection program starts on Monday, Nov. 8. Residents are encouraged to check the leaf collection schedule and zone map and rake leaves to the curb, or edge of pavement if there are no curbs, before their pickup date.
Each collection zone will have only one pick-up.
Collection Schedule:
• Zone 1: begins Nov. 8 (1 week)
• Zone 2: begins Nov. 15 (1 week)
• Zone 3: begins Nov. 22 (2 weeks)
 Map of loose leaf collection zones.  This crew will probably not be clearing the leaves from your property. They were working along New Street when this picture was taken. Residents planning on using the service are reminded that this program is weather dependent. Freezing rain or snow can cause delays or even cancel the program. Always be prepared to bag your leaves for Halton Region’s Yard Waste Pick-up or mulch them to help your lawns and gardens grow.
If the collection is delayed or cancelled due to weather or other circumstances, residents can call 905-335-7777 for updated information. Updates will also be posted on burlington.ca/leafcollection as well as the City’s social media channels.
To ensure the safety of collection crews and avoid damaging equipment, please keep the loose-leaf piles free of debris and sticks. Leaves mixed with debris and waste will not be collected. Please help prevent flooding by keeping catch basins and ditches clear of leaves.
 The time frames for getting all the leaves off the streets is tight. They want to wait until all the leaves are down and the snow hasn’t started. To ensure a successful pick-up, residents can:
 • Rake leaves to the edge of the curb or roadway in a loose pile
• Remove basketball nets, cars and other obstructions from the road during pick-up dates
• Clear leaves from sidewalks and walkways
• Avoid placing garbage bags, bins, blue boxes or green carts on top of loose-leaf piles
• Give crews room to remove the leaves when driving
After the collection program is complete, any remaining leaves should be placed in yard-waste bags for curb side collection by Halton Region.
As a greener alternative, residents can mulch their leaves with their lawn mower to help feed the soil for the spring.
Related news story:
The evolution of leaf collecting in Burlington
By Staff
October 12th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
TD has launched its annual TD Thanks You campaign to personally recognize and reward outstanding customers whose community contributions have enriched the lives of those around them. The 2021 recipients have all demonstrated a commitment to spreading optimism and supporting their neighbours during these challenging times, without asking for anything in return.
 Beth Martin Snook and Nick Podetz, TD District Vice President This year, one of the TD Thanks You recipients is Beth Martin Snook from Burlington, Ontario. She noticed the struggles families were facing as kids went back to school amidst tough economic times, and many parents couldn’t afford all the supplies they needed.
So, Beth brought together local volunteers and organizations to create a backpack drive. As the hub of the effort, brokering support from local businesses and supporting everyone involved, Beth strives to keep the positivity going throughout 2021 – a year which schools have been gaining more returning students – and is hard at work to figure out how to make it happen.
Nominated by Nick Podetz, District Vice President at TD, Beth will receive 100 backpacks filled with back-to-school supplies to support her tireless work of making sure that every kid in her community is given the tools they need to succeed in school. The gift has been presented to Beth, and images from the surprise can be found here.
Related news story:
Putting more than food on the table
 By Staff
October 7th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Margaret Lindsay Holton, rely on her to do something different.
She has put together WHAT and calls it GROUP THINK; it has been in the works since the release of her second album, CANADADA: TAKE TWO, in 2017.
 MLH explains: GROUP THINK explores several issues that have been brewing since we’ve settled into this ‘new normal’. – How are we really doing?
And, are we really ready for time travel? Will we leave Nature behind, again? The primary focus though is on language. Across the media spectrum, our words have become increasingly volatile, vulgar, and violent. – Why? What happened to civility? – When did words start losing their unifying potency and meaning?
Have a listen to these musical ‘sound thoughts’ and read my notes on the album.
By Staff
October 7th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
A reader wrote asking why the flags at city hall were always lowered – it seemed that way to him.
City has a policy for lowering flags.
It goes like this:
By Staff
October 7th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
There is a fascinating exhibit coming to the Joseph Brant Museum – this is one for both parents and the older children.
 What ciphers are and the role they play in encryption is explained very well. Cipher | Decipher, a new exhibition developed by Ingenium – Canada’s Museums of Science and Innovation, in partnership with the Communications Security Establishment (CSE) will open on October 15th providing visitors with a rare and exciting opportunity to view an authentic Second World War Enigma cipher machine.
Cipher | Decipher breaks down communications encryption: what it is, how it works, and how it affects our lives. The 500-square-foot exhibition showcases a wide range of historic communications encryption artifacts on loan from the CSE, and contains both hands-on and digital experiences, as well as custom illustrations that visually demonstrate key processes in cybersecurity, and making and breaking ciphers.
 You will be able to encrypt a message with the wheel. Visitors will be able to scramble their own messages using a cipher wheel, see how an Enigma cipher machine works, and tackle puzzles to learn if they have what it takes to work in the field of cryptology.
The exhibition runs from October 15, 2021 to January 8, 2022. Museum hours of operation are Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 3:30pm. In accordance with COVID-19 protocols, the Museums of Burlington has procedures in place to allow the public to safely enjoy the galleries and exhibitions currently on view.
Visitors to the Museum are asked to pre-pay admission online for a designated entry time. Entry times are available on the 1/2 hour.
Walk-in visitors will be accommodated space permitting.
This is the kind of exhibit that will fascinate – especially those students who are taking the iStem program at the Aldershot High school.
 By Staff
October 4th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
 It just takes your breath away. The colours of the leaves on the trees are changing.
The mornings are just a little on the crisp side.
The season is changing on us.
And now we head for Thanksgiving – a time when we will have to decide just how we are going to celebrate and with whom we will celebrate.
If you have a relative who has chosen not to vaccinate – what do you do? Let us know when you figure that one out.
For some a fulsome Thanksgiving celebration may not be in the cards – there is an opportunity to help out if you are so inclined.
St. Matthews Church on Plains Road has been collecting foods and school supplies for those whose budgets aren’t what they used to be.
By John Seolink
October 4th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Online casino revenues have been growing over the last few years but they are seeing a big increase this year. This is obviously due in part to the fact that the Covid-19 pandemic has kept many of us at home and limited our ability to do our usual activities – at some points in the past year, we haven’t even been able to travel outside of our communities. While it has been difficult, this time has encouraged us to find virtual substitutes or alternatives to our favorite activities, including gambling. But what other reasons can we attribute this growth to?
Variety
 Everything is now on-line – which can be a plus. In today’s world, we have access to a huge variety of entertainment options. With streaming services for films and television, e-readers and audiobooks for print media, and the endless possibilities of the internet, we have become very used to having a lot of choice. Traditional casinos, especially smaller venues, are not always able to fulfill our desire for options. Online casinos, however, are perfectly designed for our option-hungry society, offering us hundreds, if not thousands of casino games to play. To take one example, www.superseven.com gives users the choice of more than 1,000 slot machine games and dozens of live casino games. With so many options, it’s easy to see why more and more gamblers are turning to online instead of traditional casinos.
Rise in mobile gaming
 The on-line gambling sites may not have the buzz of the live casino – but they are safe and you don’t have to leave the house. As mobile gaming has become more popular, it has influenced other industries as well. Since many online casino games are very similar to mobile games, it makes sense that this increase in popularity would extend to them. The monetization of mobile games, either through the freemium model, microtransactions or subscriptions has made users more comfortable with the concept of paying real money to play a virtual game. This has helped to make playing online casino games more widely accepted.
Safety
While most casinos have fantastic security inside, casinos and the gamblers leaving them are still targets for robberies. Large-scale heists – think Ocean’s Eleven style – are very rare but they do still occasionally happen, like the 2017 armed robbery at the Emerald Resort Casino in Vanderbijlpark. More common are attacks on individuals after they have left the casino – a frightening possibility. Online casinos remove this risk since you can remain safe at home while gambling, and instant payout casinos transfer winnings directly to your bank account or debit card so there’s no worry about carrying around large quantities of cash.
Convenience
 There is an app for almost everything. You get to choose where you want to spend your time. Especially during the pandemic, people have been trying to find ways to do what they enjoy without leaving the house. Concerts are being livestreamed, new movies are released on streaming services and video calls let us meet up with friends while staying home. The rising popularity of online casinos is part of this trend. Though for some people the bright flashing lights and noises of the casino are a big part of their appeal, being able to play your favorite gambling games from the comfort of home is a major draw. This convenience means more people play more often.
Live casino games
Up until recently, online casinos were mainly associated with slot machine games and similar games that were more like mobile games than actual casino games. For gamblers who enjoyed table games such as poker and blackjack, online casinos seemed like a poor substitute. Live casino games have changed that and therefore have attracted more users to online casinos. These games feature a real dealer and are streamed in real time. While regular online casino games are solitary, live casino games are more social – some even have chat functions to allow players to have conversations with the other people ‘at their table’, just like in a traditional casino.
By offering what is essentially a simulation of the table game experience, online casinos are able to increase their profits despite the added costs associated with these games. This is impressive, considering these costs include expenses like floor space for livestreaming the tables, dealer salaries and the cost of the technology that allows players to interact with the dealer and the cards on the table. Being able to carry these costs and still see an increase in revenue shows just how important table games are in attracting new users to online casinos.
Playing online casino games provides a great break from our daily lives. Their popularity is seen in their steadily increasing revenues. It will be interesting to see how online casinos develop in the coming years.
 By Alex Windsor
September 28th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
While the digital revolution has put many industries to the test, others like public services have thrived, such as the police who can take notes electronically when on duty. The development of new and emerging technologies has seen the success of the gambling industry skyrocket in recent years. Today, it is thought that 76% of Canadians take part in some form of gambling activity, whether that be a national lottery, visiting a casino or playing online.
 Toronto – capital of Ontario – the province with interesting and exciting sports gambling locations. In many countries across the world, gambling has traditionally been a taboo subject that has been frowned upon. As a result, many places including Canada have had restrictive gambling laws that have prevented the industry from growing. Yet, as attitudes towards gambling have become more progressive and laws have been altered to reflect this, the gambling industry is once again beginning to thrive in Canada.
Below, we’ll take a look at the thriving gambling scene in Ontario and investigate some of the best land-based and online gambling places where people can go to enjoy their favourite casino games.
Gambling law ambiguity across Canada
There are many different gambling laws and regulations in Canada. Canada’s first forms of legal gambling appeared in 1969, in which a variety of landmark casinos were developed. These casinos brought tourism and a steady economy to cities across Canada after years of gambling being illegal.
 For the citizens of Ontario, online gaming complements the already thriving gambling scene. By the early 2000s, online gambling was growing rapidly as more and more households gained access to computers. However, the law states that any casino venue operating in Canada must be licensed by the regional authorities. Since many online gambling providers were operating from another country, this meant that they weren’t bound to the laws set by the Canadian authorities.
This loophole has meant that up until today, Canadian citizens can enjoy gambling at online venues, as long as the provider is offshore. This grey area in the law means that Canada is missing out on a significant economic opportunity as they do not benefit from online gaming taxes or fees from licenses at all. However, for the citizens of Ontario, online gaming complements the already thriving gambling scene.
The best casinos in Ontario
As the most populous province in Canada, Ontario has a thriving gambling scene with some of the nation’s best Casinos. The most popular casinos include:
Shorelines Casino – Thousand Islands
The Shorelines Casino chain has three casinos located in Ontario, however it is their Thousand Islands venue located on the outskirts of Gananoque that is one of the most popular. The venue is home to over 450 slot machines and various gaming tables for visitors to enjoy.
Shorelines casino are well-known for hosting various table games from blackjack, roulette to a variety of poker games including 3-card poker and ultimate Texas Hold’em. Those who want to get in some practice online before trying their luck at the casino can try real money poker at 888 Poker. Players will get a chance to hone in on their strategy and practice their poker face before going up against the big players at Shorelines.
Casino Rama Resort
Located near Orillia, Ontario, Casino Rama Resort is known as one of the region’s best casino resorts. Guests to the resort can benefit from a fully serviced hotel, a spa and health club, and a top-class casino with over 2,200 slot machines and 6 gaming tables.
Best of all, the casino resort is just a 90-minute drive from Toronto, making it an ideal weekend getaway from the city.
Elements Casino – Brantford
Elements casino offers a great variety of popular games, including over 500 slot machines and over 55 table games with Blackjack, Texas Hold’Em Poker and Roulette amongst the offerings.
Sports betting in Ontario
On the 27th of August, single event sports betting became legalized and was officially launched across Canada. Currently, there are 71 casinos in Ontario that now offer sports betting and in addition, Ontario has now made single-game sports betting available online through the Ontario lottery and the gaming Corporation’s PROLINE website.
 The gambling scene in Ontario will now be able to thrive as the industry continues to grow While this is a monumental moment for Ontario’s gambling scene, residents of Ontario are also able to take advantage of the many offshore online casinos available to them. The move to legalize sports betting in Ontario means that several sports betting vendors in the Northern US could now be looking to expand into Ontario, offering even more variety in the region.
The future of gambling in Ontario
The recent easing of restrictions for gambling across Canada means that the gambling scene in Ontario will now be able to thrive as the industry continues to grow. These changes demonstrate the appetite for gambling across the region, in which many northern American influences are moving into the Ontario region. From sports betting vendors to US casino chains, cities like Toronto are becoming even more of a hotspot for betting shops and casinos.
However, online gambling is more popular than ever, meaning that the footfall to physical gambling venues could decrease over time – as can be seen in countries like the UK. As technologies become more affordable, many people are opting for the convenience and freedom that online gambling brings.
Overall, over the past year, there have been many positive changes across Canada that support the growth of the gambling industry. As Canadians views of gambling become more progressive, it will be interesting to see how the market develops and whether physical casinos will stand the test of time.
By Ryan O’Dowd
October 1st, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Hundreds attended an Every Child Matters Truth and Reconciliation Day ceremony yesterday afternoon in downtown Burlington.
 People parading along the Beachway Trail towards Spencer Smith Park The event, hosted at Spencer Smith Park, was by turns celebratory and somber. Music, dancing, education, and prayer made for a lively afternoon; the speakers reminded everyone why they had gathered.
Residential schools and other systemic injustices were at the forefront of the discussion.
 Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns with an Indigenous dancer The event was punctuated by a resounding plea that events like these aren’t enough, real action must follow. Some speakers issued pointed warnings to the politicians in attendance, recently re-elected Minister Karina Gould and Mayor Marianne Meed Ward.
Speaking to the Gazette event organizer, Amber Ruthart, reiterated the need for reconciliation to be a constant consideration and not a trend.
“Today has been a very beautiful outpouring of support from the City of Burlington, and the community. A lot of people are here and they’re asking the right questions. It’s unfortunate how mass graves had to be discovered for this to happen but in a way, it’s bringing our community together, awareness of it.
“I hope that education continues and is not just a trend. Also, we hope to be doing more indigenous awareness social events in the future here in Burlington,” said Ruthart.
 Family members with Residential School survivor
In the afternoon’s most emotional moment, a speaker, White Eagle, brought her mother, a residential school survivor, to the stage. Overcome by the moment White Eagle paused a long while to collect herself before introducing her mother, fighting back tears.
The politicians in attendance were called out by some speakers, demanding they turn their words into actionable change. Minister Gould, who’s Liberal party has been the target of scorn for shortcomings on Indigenous matters, watched stoically.
 Dancers preparing to perform at the foot of the Pier “We all live together. This is what reconciliation is about and I challenge the government to honor her word with the Indigenous peoples in this land,” said a speaker.
 MP Karina Gould talking with one of the hundreds of people who took part in the event. Gould would not say if her presence at the event indicated she would be working in a hands-on capacity with Indigenous issues. Clarifying that Indigenous issues are considerations in every portfolio.
“Today was important and inspiring. It grounded people in why we’re here,” said Gould.
 Social distancing and politely listening on a wonderful autumn afternoon Audio was played of Orange Shirt Day (the basis for Truth and Reconciliation Day) founder, Phyllis Webstad, sharing her story.
The day takes place in September because that is the month during which Indigenous children were taken to residential schools.
 Mayor Marianne Meed Ward spoke during the day. Mayor Meed Ward delivered a speech, and land acknowledgment, discussing residential schools, systemic injustices, and praising the courage of the Indigenous women who organized the event.
“Today is meant to be about listening and learning and working towards healing, to understand what happens in our country, the truth of what really happened. There are issues that still face indigenous people, coast to coast, and right here in the city of Burlington, the discoveries of the mass and unmarked graves at residential school sites, shocked many Canadians and for many, It was the first time that they have learned this evil history,” said Meed Ward.
 Drummers with an attentive audience Education of Canadians on the truth of Indigenous relations was a recurring topic. This came a day after the province announced Indigenous curriculum will be expanded to cover grades one through three.
The ceremony began in song and ended in traditional dance. A song was proceeded with a call and response exercise where the performer taught the audience how to say “I love you” in several native tongues.
Before the ceremony, a memorial walk took place along the promenade. Young people led the way carrying signs reading “every child matters.” They smiled and celebrated along the way, sun danced through foliage and warmed the crisp autumn afternoon. It was a hopeful image on a day about hope. The orange-clad parade passed a surprised wedding party in Spencer Smith Park and shouted well wishes to them. They walked past Joseph Brant Hospital, a hospital with an Indigenous namesake serving the community as the backdrop to Indigenous peoples feeling undeserved by the community.
Several speakers called the ceremony the first Indigenous event in Burlington.
Pop-up storefronts sold “Every Child Matters” T-shirts worn by almost everyone at the event. Orange shirts could be spotted all around the downtown core.
Event organizer, Ruthart, said her native name translates into “loud voice,” her message was loud and clear today. The city was listening. Ottawa was listening. Will they act?
 By Pepper Parr
October 1st, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
With the first Truth and Reconciliation Day celebrated I find myself asking – just how much truth do I have today that I didn’t have yesterday?
 Dancing that reflect centuries of a culture we are now learning much more about. As I listened to people who know far more about this than I do I heard one woman say: Truth and Reconciliation – yes. But let us make sure, she said, that Truth comes before Reconciliation because without Truth there can be no Reconciliation.
I didn’t hear yesterday anything I didn’t already know.
We know information exists that will shed much light on what really happened, and we know there are people who hold that information very close to their chests for to let it out into the public domain will severely damage their interests.
The churches, the Catholic churches for the most part, have the names and numbers but they aren’t releasing that information.
They should be able to tell us how many cemeteries there were, where they are precisely, and the names of the children they laid to rest.
Why we are making the various tribal bands spend thousands of dollars with specialized radar scanning equipment that can see below the surface is beyond me.
I did hear some statements made by students at schools that were impressive and inspiring. One school wrote a Call to Action asking the province to make the day a paid holiday for every Aboriginal person who is a teacher whose parents were sent to Residential schools.
Another young man wrote a poem that took the breath away from the broadcaster who was doing the interview.
There were a lot of tribal dances, colourful headgear and much singing and drumming which are nice to see and hear. But surely there is more to Truth and Reconciliation than this?
It was a start – we owe those people much more than we are ever going to be able to give them. What we can give them, something we can individually demand, is that it be given and that it is the cold hard truth.
By Staff
September 30th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Sarah Wahidi is part of a group that has created a Help Centre for recently landed refugees. The aim is to help those who have recently entered Canada, including those who have arrived from Afghanistan. Their intention is to provide food, clothing and referral/support services to those in need.
 They have a location in Burlington at 895 Brant street, on the corner of Fairview and Brant. They will be holding an Opening Celebration on Saturday, October 2nd.
They are accepting donations and will begin a donation pick up schedule for those who may not be able to bring anything to the centre. “The community has given us tremendous support so far with almost 20 bags of donations. It’s really fulfilling to see how many people really care about making change and welcoming these individuals and families escaping their country”, said Wahidi.
Their Facebook page will be launched next week. They can be contacted at their email account: HaltonRefugeeHelpCentre@gmail.com
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