 By Staff
March 29th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
It’s tell me a story time. Can I fib a bit you might ask?
Just how colourful can my story be?
 Can I tell you about the time a leader in the Parks and Recreation department gave a hula hoop demonstration outside city hall? Didn’t think so.
Everyday in Burlington, someone does something for a friend, a stranger or their community. Many times, no one knows the action or even the impact it has. Sure, the city has some larger than life events and local personalities that are exciting, award-winning and newsworthy, but it’s the random acts of community that really build our strength, sense of belonging and defines who we are as a city.
We are asking residents to share stories of what makes you proud to be Canadian and a Burlington resident, and how we come together as a City. Tell us about how you or someone you know has made a difference or has brought people together through random acts of community; moments of kindness or through small acts that may have made a bigger impact in your life or those around you.
We are looking for your stories of what makes you a proud Canadian and Burlington resident and how we come together. Here are some thoughts on stories you could share:
 This is what city building is all about. Seven young Burlingtonians made plaster impressions of their hand prints which were then engraved on the marker that tells the story of the pier and its construction. Despite its construction woes and legal problems the pier is a magnificent addition to the city. 1. What do you love about Burlington or your local community?
2. What is it about Burlington that drew you here or keeps you here?
3. How has the Burlington community made you feel welcome or proud to be a part of it?
4. How have you or someone you know, contributed to the Burlington community that brings us closer together?
5. How has Burlington shaped you?
We are looking for your submissions in writing (500 words or less) or through a video (no longer than 1 min and upload via YouTube or Vimeo) or a combination of written with photos sharing a story.
You can start your story like this: “I’m proud to be Canadian and I love Burlington because……”
Personal Information contained on this page is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act, S.O. 2001, c.25, as amended and will be used for the purpose of gathering and sharing stories. Select submissions may be contacted for permission to share in other mediums. Questions about this collection should be directed to the Supervisor, Festivals & Events sandra.maxwell@burlington.ca, by phone at 905-335-7600, ext. 7724, or by mail at 426 Brant St., Burlington, Ontario L7R-3Z6.
By Staff
March 27th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Earth Hour – this evening .
The occasion to think about the planet we live on – and acknowledge that perhaps we haven’t treated the land and sea all that well.
Communities around the world will turn off all the lights from 8:30 – 9:30 p.m. Millions of people across the globe are expected to turn off lights to recognize the importance of nature and protecting the environment.
The initiative started as a symbolic lights out event in Sydney, Australia in 2007. Since then, the World Wildlife Fund’s (WWF) Earth Hour has grown to become the world’s largest grassroots movement for the environment.
 Perhaps it has been awhile since you’ve spent an evening like this? What do people do – sit in the dark ruminating over the state of things?
Some have decided it is a perfect occasion to have a candle light dinner – the over-riding question is – what kind of wine?
 After dinner – try this? You could
• Discus the loss of nature and the importance of nature
• Under-stand biodiversity and its importance
• Explore the role of nature as an ally in the fight against the climate crisis
• Evaluate where and how electricity is used, and the importance of turning off and unplugging as many electronic devices as possible.
I think in our household we are going to try dancing to songs we sing to each other.
 By Hubert Harrison
March 26th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The world of NHL sports betting can be quite overwhelming for beginners. With the amount of betting strategies and lingo swirling around, it can be hard to keep up. Before you start looking into ice hockey betting tips and placing bets it’s important to get the basics down first. With money on the line, it’s important always important to bet smart
 It is an exciting game with some incredible athletes. Online sports betting has become a fantastic activity for many sports fans today. With a bet involved, fans get to have a more engaging experience for every match they follow. Compared to just watching the latest NHL news live broadcasts, sports betting is a lot more exciting. It gives bettors the adrenaline rush as they watch their team win or lose.
Important Safety Betting Tips For Beginners
Betting mistakes happen. Even to the most seasoned of sports bettors. However, making errors is inevitable, there are a couple of ways to reduce them. In the world of online sports betting, it’s important to take things slow when learning the ropes of the trade. You need to learn how to bet smart to lead a successful betting career. To help guide you on to the path of sports betting success, keep on reading.
Keep things simple and clear
If you think you’ll be winning big from the get-go, think again. Online betting takes time and experience to master. Just like playing the piano, it’s impossible to master a piece on your first try. You’re going to need to practice over and over again to nail it.
Take things step-by-step.
The very first thing rookies need to keep in mind is to keep things simple and clear. In other words, participate in bets that you fully understand. Know where you’re placing your bets and their results. By not over complicating things, you’ll be able to make smart betting decisions and avoid the risk of burning a hole in your pocket.
Have a budget
While a chance at winning big sounds a whole more exciting than just a couple of bucks, it is incredibly risky. Especially when you lack the experience. One of the most important tips you need to always keep in mind no matter what is to always stay within your budget.
You need to always spend within your means. To keep control of your finances, set a specific budget that you can afford to lose. As a beginner, you are bound to make a few more mistakes than the average punter. So, be prepared to lose a great sum of your budget.
Do not trust just any tipster
Cyber attacks are all over the internet. As a beginner, it’s important to thoroughly look through different betting sites before trusting them. Here are some tips on how to find the right trustworthy tipsters:
Client reviews
Looking through online reviews is the best way to get the best idea of a betting site’s services and client experience.
 Payment methods
Have a look at the site’s payment methods. Check if they use popular payment platforms like Paypal or Apple Pay.
Terms and conditions
A tell-tale sign that a betting site is suspicious if they don’t have a terms and conditions page anywhere on their site. Make sure the site you’re about to trust has one.
Compare betting odds and lines
One of the best betting tips you need to take is always to compare betting odds and lines. Having good odds gives a big advantage in having a higher payout. On the other hand, having better betting lines will increase your chance of winning wagers.
Another way to increase your chances of winning is to have multiple accounts with different betting sites. By having several accounts in different betting platforms, you’ll be able to compare and find the best betting odds and lines right away.
NHL Betting Terms You Need To Know
After getting a good grasp on the important safety betting tips, it’s now time to know more about the type of sport you’ll be focusing on. NHL sports betting lingo can be rather confusing, especially when you’re just getting started. Here are a couple of important NHL sports betting lingo commonly used amongst bettors in the industry.
 Pick the team you think can win and place a wager. Moneyline
Pick a team to win the game. It’s the simplest way to wager on.
Puck Line
To win, your team must score by more than 1.5 goals and the opposing team needs to lose by no more than 1.5 goals.
Parlay
Parlay is the act of combining two or more bet types from the same or across multiple games. It’s a good move to increase your total number of odds. But it can also be a risk as all plays need to be accurate.
Favorite
Refers to the home team or the team with the better record of the season.
Underdog
Refers to the visiting team or the team with the weaker record of the season.
Teaser
The act of buying or selling goals on a puck line or in a total bet. This move gives bettors better odds or chances of winning with lower odds.
 All kinds of teams to wager on. Different Ways to Bet on the NHL
After a quick crash course of NHL lingo, the next thing you need to familiarize yourself with is the different types of bets in the NHL.
Live Betting
Betting while the game is in action. It’s the most action-packed way to bet on the NHL, you’ll be able to see lines adjusted in real-time.
Single-game Betting
This betting type is used when you’re only interested in betting on specific individuals broken down to a money line.
Prop Bets
Single-game bets based on players. Bettors can place bets whether a specific player scores or not, or even hit a certain record.
Futures Bet
Early bets are placed during the off-season or within the season by supporting a specific team to win a certain amount of games.
Experience is Gold
When it comes to online sports betting experience is the best teacher. It’s important to take risks and make mistakes. It’s how you learn how to do better the next time around. Understanding these basic terms and ways of how to place bets on the NHL will help give you a better grasp on where to get started. The best betting strategy is to take things one step at a time. Learn and grow with every win or loss you make.
 By Tom Geens
March 25th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Lift your eyes to the future – and the all-Canadian pursuits we can look forward to over the coming months.
By anyone’s standards, the last year has been extremely tough. Leaving aside the direct human suffering inflicted by COVID-19, the pandemic has also ground society to a halt, with lockdown measures meaning that so many of our favourite pastimes have either been put on hold altogether or severely curtailed.
Things are going to stay tough for a little while yet. But at least now, with the prospect of a vaccine-led recovery strengthening every day, it feels like we can finally lift our eyes to the future and the promise of a return to normality.
With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of Ontarians’ favourite all-Canadian pursuits – the things that we’ve been missing dearly, and that enrich our local and national life so much. Something to whet the appetite as we look forward to brighter days ahead.
 Hockey is the national sport – watched at both the professional and local levels. Watching hockey
Our biggest national sport, over 1.3 million Canadians actively participate in recreational hockey games, and as much as 68% of the population watched the 2018 NHL playoffs. This is a sport deeply ingrained in our national psyche.
Yet in recent months, there have been COVID-19 outbreaks traced to hockey arenas all over the US and Canada, meaning that spectators are not being allowed into stadiums to watch their favourite pro teams play. However, a vaccine-led recovery raises the prospect of Ontarians returning to the stands in the not-too-distant future, watching their favourite players while gobbling down hotdogs, ice cream and beer.
Playing rugby again with our friends
We might not be the world’s most famous rugby nation – that accolade probably goes to New Zealand – but we still love the sport.
 In Burlington the local Rugby Clubs take part in events, including the annual Christmas parade. It was introduced to this country by the Royal Navy back in 1823, and we now have domestic tournaments such as the Canadian Rugby Championship and we participate in continental matches such as the Americas Rugby Championship.
With Rugby Ontario announcing that rugby clubs in certain parts of the province are allowed to start playing again, it feels exciting to be returning to the rucks and scrums of this fiercely competitive sport and using up some of that excess energy that we’ve all been storing up from months spent indoors.
Enjoying galleries and our world-beating culture
What have you been doing to pass the time during stay-at-home measures? A decent novel always helps. Netflix may offer some entertainment. There’s also the world of online casinos – sites such as this one offer plenty of online games, chances to win money, and safety measures to ensure that you can keep track of what it is you’re spending. For as long as the economy remains at least partially closed, indoor pursuits like this may help to keep you sane.
 Patron looking at painting being auctioned. However, we’re all craving a bit of culture – Canada is famous for it, after all – and our very own Burlington Art Gallery has re-opened its doors. With its range of exhibits, including a prominent collection of Canadian ceramics, and free access for visitors, this is definitely a great day out for the family.
Further afield, in the cultural mecca of Toronto, just over 40 minutes’ drive away, the Art Gallery of Ontario also remains closed – though an excellent array of virtual courses and activities remain available. For example, artist instructor Amanda Arcuri is running an online series called ‘Drawing Larger Than Life’.
Elsewhere, the world-famous Toronto Symphony Orchestra has posted an update on its website saying that it hopes to be able to share further details about its 2021/22 schedule by late spring or early summer.
Running your model boats at Centennial Pond
Skating at the Centennial Pond is over the for season. Soon the water will be ready for those model boats that scoot around at a feverish clip.
Everyone is looking forward to the point where the majority of people will have been vaccinated and we will be able to get out to wine and dine and maybe event get to a movie. Too early to tell – but that is the hope – assuming we all maintain that two metre safe distance and wear masks.
Drinking craft beer in our enviable array of bars
The humble glass of beer. In a bar. With your friends. Surely, few simple pleasures are being missed quite as much as this one, with venues across Ontario still shuttered due to the pandemic.
However, we can find solace in the fact that our enviable craft beer culture will come back with a bang when lockdown does finally end – and Toronto’s craft scene and brewers, in particular, give us hope that one day soon, we’ll be experimenting with all manner of flavorful ales.
Places such as Bandit Brewery, with its devilishly good bar snacks and quirky beer selection, is just one of the establishments that we’ll be hoping to get back into soon.
 The Beer Guy will deliver the suds to your door while you watch the hockey game. Until then, be sure to check out companies such as The Beer Guy in Burlington, and the range of local breweries offering deliveries of kegs and bottles to people’s front doors.
We’re so lucky to live in Ontario – our proximity to big cities, big culture and world-beating nature means that we’re well-placed to enjoy the economic and social recovery from COVID-19 when it finally sets in.
Until then, we’ll have to make the most of the activities that we’re still allowed to do under restrictions and meditate on the prospect of better days ahead.
 By Staff
March 24th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton District School Board announced today that they will be joining communities around the world in support of Earth Hour on Saturday, March 27 from 8:30 – 9:30 p.m. Millions of people across the globe are expected to turn off lights to recognize the importance of nature and protecting the environment.
 The initiative started as a symbolic lights out event in Sydney, Australia in 2007. Since then, the World Wildlife Fund’s (WWF) Earth Hour has grown to become the world’s largest grassroots movement for the environment.
Schools in the Halton District School Board will set an example for their communities and lead into Earth Hour on Friday, March 26 by engaging in a series of learning activities including:
• Discussing the loss of nature and the importance of nature
• Understanding biodiversity and its importance
• Exploring the role of nature as an ally in the fight against the climate crisis
• Evaluating where and how electricity is used, and the importance of turning off and unplugging as many electronic devices as possible
 By John Gaar
March 24th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Did you know that the worldwide audience for E-sports games is forecasted to reach 250 million people?
The growth of Esports has been phenomenal, with new games being launched every year. Some games, however, dominate the landscape and are more popular than others. When we talk about the biggest Esports games, it can mean different things to different people. Some games are more popular globally while others are regional successes.
Gambling (also known as betting) is the wagering of money or something of value (referred to as “the stakes”) on an event with an uncertain outcome, with the primary intent of winning money or material goods.
Gambling thus requires three elements to be present: consideration (an amount wagered), risk (chance), and a prize.
Most of the online casinos offer no deposit bonus Canada or Australia players can use as well as UK or USA gamblers. The outcome of the wager is often immediate, such as a single roll of dice, a spin of a roulette wheel, or a horse crossing the finish line, but longer time frames are also common, allowing wagers on the outcome of a future sports contest or even an entire sports season.
Some have a lot more players while others organize bigger tournaments with large cash prizes. In this post, we have sorted the biggest Esports games by the amount of reward money that they have awarded for tournaments. All information on this is collected from the Esports Earnings website.
So, let’s get started with the list of the biggest Esports games.
 Fortnite is a popular multiplayer online game developed by Epic Games. It has three different game modes but still counts as one game. Release Year – 2017
Total Prize Money Awarded – $89.1 million
Noteworthy Tournaments – Fortnite World Cup, Fortnite Fall Skirmish Series, Fortnite Summer Skirmish Series
Top Players – Kyle Giersdorf, Harrison Chang, David Wang.
Fortnite is a popular multiplayer online game developed by Epic Games. It has three different game modes but still counts as one game. Here are the details of each game mode:
Save the World – It involves up to 4 players fighting zombie-like creatures to defend themselves and other survivors.
Battle Royale – This is a player-versus-player type of game where up to 100 players fight to be the last person standing. It can also be played in teams.
Creative – This is the sandbox mode where players have creative control over the game world.
 Dota 2 is a popular multiplayer battle arena Esports game developed by Valve Corporation. It is a sequel to Defense of the Ancients: All-Stars. It is most popular in North America and Europe. Release Year – 2013
Total Prize Money Awarded – $224.7 million
Noteworthy Tournaments – The International
Top Players – Johan Sundstein, Jesse Vainikka, Anathan Pham
About the Game
Dota 2 is a popular multiplayer battle arena Esports game developed by Valve Corporation. It is a sequel to Defense of the Ancients: All-Stars. It is most popular in North America and Europe.
The same is usually played in teams of five, with each one defending their area on a map. One team wins by destroying a structure called “Ancient” within the other team’s base.
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
 Counter Strike: is a first-person shooter game and is the fourth one in the Counter-Strike series.
Release Year – 2012
Total Prize Money Awarded – $96.5 million
Noteworthy Tournaments – World Electronic Sports Games (WESG), ELEAGUE
Top Players – Andreas Højsleth, Peter Rasmussen, Nicolai Reedtz
This is another popular Esports game developed by Valve Corporation, in collaboration with Hidden Path Entertainment. It is a first-person shooter game and is the fourth one in the Counter-Strike series.
This game is basically played between two teams—terrorists and counter-terrorists. The terrorists take hostages and plant a bomb. The counter-terrorists have to save the hostages and defuse the bomb.
 By Chris Bell
March 24th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Unlike in the US, gambling has been present in Canada for quite some time. The Great White North is famous for being one of the first countries to accept online gambling. As Canada’s first legal gambling form appeared in 1969, Canada was bound to have a highly developed gambling industry. Moreover, casinos became one of Canada’s famous landmarks where tourists and locals came for some quality entertainment.
I am a game expert working at Gamblizard; I love to blog and give my audiences piece of his mind after reading my articles.
 The gambling culture in Canada became so mainstream, and it became one of the top ways to entertain yourself. And as the advancement was introduced to the industry, online gambling started to be a thing in Canada. Nowadays, many Canadian residents opt for online casinos and sportsbooks, but it doesn’t mean that land-based casinos are any less popular.
If you are up for a quick Canadian gambling history lesson, tune in.
First Legal Encounter with Gambling
Chronologically speaking, the first time a legal document concerning gambling in Canada appeared in the 19th century. It was called the Canadian Criminal Code, and it banned all sorts of gambling activities known. As something new, strange and unknown, many disliked gambling, which is why it was considered illegal up until 1969.
Once the benefits of legalised gambling became clear to the Canadian government, they decided to alter the Criminal Code in 1969. After all, there was no stopping the casino enthusiasts from enjoying their favourite pastime activity – even if it was illegal.
The two activities that became legal with the altered Criminal Code were gambling and lottery.
This was the first step towards the incredible expansion of the industry in Canada. And for the next couple of decades, tons of new land-based casinos emerged, and the industry flourished. The gambling culture in Canada became so mainstream, and it became one of the top ways to entertain yourself.
However, after the 1990s, everything started to change, and by the early 2000s, it became easily accessible and available to almost everyone. The fast growth of Internet technology and computers gave birth to online casinos. Once online casinos started to become familiar, a new era of online gambling began in Canada.
 You could go online and play blackjack, poker, baccarat and roulette. The Beginnings of Online Casinos in Canada
And as it is entirely logical, the first online casinos in Canada and the rest of the world were quite simple. Even if this was considered groundbreaking at the time, the tech limitations allowed operators to offer only a few casino games users can play online.
Thus, you could go online and play blackjack, poker, baccarat and roulette. Another thing that used to limit people is the accessibility – as not many people had computers. Unlike today when everyone has a computer when students can access any online casino, they find on the website Gamblizard via phones when bored and get offers in Canada or play on their way to college. In other words, only a limited number of people could play these games and access the first online casinos in CA.
Also, online gambling was in a somewhat grey zone. Even if it wasn’t illegal, there wasn’t a law regulating anything conducted online. Without a clearly defined law concerning online gambling, many took advantage of the situation, which went beyond Canada’s borders and became a worldwide issue. This is precisely why many countries worldwide started defining online gambling laws and determining the legal status of online casinos.
Online Casino Laws in Canada
After almost two decades of online casino presence, Canada and many other countries worldwide struggle to define the laws concerning this matter. Thus, residents of the Great White North can play online casino games but only on offshore licensed websites. In other words, no online casino operator is allowed to run a gambling platform from CA. The country cannot issue any licenses and permits to enable such operating since there is no law defining it.
Unfortunately, the country won’t profit from playing taxes or license taxes as long as they don’t decide to pass a bill. All in all, people who are engaging in online gambling activities in Canada aren’t committing a crime – as long as that online casino is licensed offshore. Many of these offshore websites offer great bonuses, offers, top odds and exquisite gambling experience. Still, many people are hoping that the Canadian government will start changing the law soon. After all, this is a country with such a long gambling history, and it just needs to embrace it.
 Chris Bell is a game expert working at Gamblizard who loves to blog and let his audience get a piece of his mind by reading his articles. He is an absolute slot machine enthusiast, and he loves to play online video slots. When Chris is not working, he usually spends time with his family or reading interesting gambling content.
By Staff
March 23rd, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The City’s spring break programming, which includes Youth Camp and Student Theatre Camp, and PA Day programming will be open for registration at burlington.ca/schoolbreaks on March 26, 2021, at 11 a.m.
Programs are available for viewing now.
 Students will be able to be outside but programs will be much different this Spring Break. Youth Camp and PA Day programming will take place at Tansley Woods Community Centre, 1996 Itabashi Way.
Student Theatre Camp will take place at Burlington Student Theatre, 2131 Prospect St.
If residents have questions about programs or need help with registering, contact the City by email at liveandplay@burlington.ca, or if you need to speak to someone, call 905-335-7738, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday to Friday and 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on weekends.
Recreation Fee Assistance
Recreation is for all, regardless of financial situation. Recreation Fee Assistance is funding made available to resident individuals or families who need help to pay for City of Burlington recreation programs.
For more information or to apply, visit burlington.ca/feeassistance. You can also leave a confidential voicemail message at 905-335-7738, ext. 8501 and staff will return your call to assist you.
Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture explains that while: “Programs may look different we have designed them to still offer the highest quality programming, staff and participant safety and a wide range of fun and exciting activities.
“Kids will love the programs and parents can feel confident their child is not only safe, but having fun, too.”
Links and Resources
www.burlington.ca/schoolbreaks
 By Staff
March 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Registration is open for BellyUp Bellydance’s 8 Week Spring Session.
Is this just a fun event or is this preparation for a public performance?
Register for in-person at the studio or live online.
In-Studio class sizes are reduced to 10 per class as per the Province of Ontario’s “Red Zone” restrictions which means their classes fill faster than ever. Join them for an inspiring session that’ll make you feel alive, build your self-esteem, strengthen and tone your body and so much more.
Click here for in-studio registration!
Click here for live online class registration!
Related news items:
Classic Belly Dancing
 Feel alive, build your self-esteem, strengthen and tone your body.
By Staff
March 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The Lakeshore Football Officials Association needs more in the way of people who can serve as officials on the field.
It is no secret that officiating is an integral part of football. The Lakeshore Football Officials Association is beginning a campaign to recruit individuals who have a passion for football and are eager to stay engaged with the game.
 Bateman High School football team students . “We are reaching out to women and men, teens and adults who may be interested and have a passion for football. If you bring that passion, you will be mentored by some of the best football officials in the country,” commented Referee-in-Chief Murray Drinkwalter.
“There are many reasons to “Say Yes to Officiating”
For the love of the Game
Maybe you want to stay engaged and be a part of the game you loved to play, or maybe you are looking to get more engaged in the game your kids are playing. Either way, being an official will give you access to, and an appreciation for, the rules and strategies of the games you officiate like nothing else can.
Earn extra money
There is no better part-time job or hobby for you to make a little extra money doing something you enjoy. It’s the perfect extra gig for anyone from a high school student, to a parent to a retiree.
Give Back
Many officials like to pay it forward to football for what it has given them. Officiating is also a way to guide and enrich the lives of the athletes who are playing by teaching the value of sportsmanship and fair play.
 It was raining, the ground was wet, slippery and football was hard to hang onto – but the game went on. Stay Active
Maintain a healthy lifestyle by engaging with a sport you love. Also, who doesn’t like getting paid to exercise?
Sense of Community
The fellowship and humour officials share with one another are incomparable. You will quickly realize there is no community like officials. Many of them will become your closest friends — lifelong friends.
Life skills
Officiating teaches independent thinking and the ability to see the big picture — a skill that translates outside of officiating. It also requires dedication, togetherness, and ability to work as a team that is important everywhere.
Opportunity
Football officials are often identified and associated with the sport and are known outside of officiating by coaches, players and fans. Even if people don’t know you specifically, many people associate officiating with trustworthiness, impartiality, dedication and integrity – all qualities that can open doors for you in other areas of life.
The organization is making a concerted effort to recruit individuals who have the availability to officiate high school football from September to November, the busiest time for the organization. High school football games are normally played Tuesday-Friday with most doubleheaders kicking off at noon, 1 p.m. or 2:30 pm.
All new officials must complete a Level 1 Football Canada Officials’ Certification Program, which has yet to be scheduled.
If you are looking to stay or get involved with football, make some extra money, be a part of a community, and enjoy being active, then please visit www.lfoa.ca to learn more and see the links to social media.
Have more questions? E-mail info@lfoa.ca and someone will contact you.
 About the Lakeshore Football Officials Association
The Lakeshore Football Officials’ Association, (LFOA) established in 1963, is responsible for officiating all community and high school tackle football in the regions of Halton, Peel, and Niagara. The organization offers Football Canada Certification Programs, rules and positioning clinics, and a personal mentoring program to assist in the development of all officials. Many of the organization’s officials are former or current members of the Canadian Football League and Ontario University Athletics officiating staffs.
 By Staff
March 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Think big Burlington; Community-led projects could receive up to $10,000
The City of Burlington is now accepting applications for the Neighbourhood Community Matching Fund (NCMF), where approved projects could receive up to $10,000.
The deadline for submissions is April 30, 2021.
 A number of years ago these boys wanted to fix up the neighbourhood ball park They succeeded – using grant money and sweat equity. Created to inspire residents to champion community-led projects, the goal of the NCMF is to improve neighbourhoods by creating a sense of belonging and community pride, while building meaningful connections.
Burlington residents are encouraged to submit community-led project plans that help make our city a better place to live and play. Inspired by the unique needs of residents and community groups, projects can increase walkability, promote beautification, encourage recreational activity, build social connections and improve safety or accessibility. These projects are to be planned, led and implemented by, and for the community in a public setting.
All projects must comply with the current public health regulations and provincial framework during development and implementation.
For 2021, the Neighbourhood Community Matching Fund will focus on small projects that enhance infrastructure amenities within parks, gardens, buildings on public lands or on lands that are accessible to the public that meet the goal of the fund.
Burlington residents interested in applying for funds are encouraged to visit burlington.ca/matchingfund to learn more about the application process, guidelines and past projects.
How the fund works
The NCMF provides up to $10,000 in funding to support selected neighbourhood and community group-led projects in Burlington.
Approved projects receive up to 50 per cent of the funding for the project from the city to a maximum of $10,000.
That means the project could be something that comes in at $20,000.
The neighbourhood or community group will match this funding with an equal contribution made up through any combination of volunteer hours, donated services, donated materials and supplies or other funds raised, such as cash donations.
For more information or to apply, visit burlington.ca/matchingfund.
There have been some really interesting projects that have benefited a lot of people.
 Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture believes that “Grassroots community building is where we get great value for money. Community-led initiatives that can build connectedness, walkability, visual appeal, recreation opportunities and better understanding can have lasting and meaningful impacts for years to come. If you have an idea for your community, take a look at the website and consider moving it from idea to reality.”
By Pepper Parr
March 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Earlier this week we did a story about how the Trumpeter Swans were doing at LaSalle Park. What we didn’t know at the time that even earlier in the month some of the swans were stuck in the ice on the lake and needed help.
A citizen, Greg Alderson, called the Trumpeter Swan Coalition on March 5 to report that two Trumpeters appeared to be stuck on the ice at LaSalle harbour, that they were injured because of being stuck and there was blood on the ice around them.
 Stuck in the ice – needing help to get out. An alert citizen saw the problem and knew who to call. He reported that they seemed to be covered in some kind of tarry, gritty substance and that he had noticed this substance on those two Trumpeters and another the day before when he was at the Park.
The Coalition reached out to the Trumpeter Swan Restoration Group and Kyna Itini and her father were able to rescue one of the swans soon after the phone call and went back later in the day to rescue the other.
 Some significant damage to the wings that was healed  Despite the experience, good care at the right place and the pair – a Mother and daughter, were returned to the wild. Kyna is a licensed rehabber so the swans were taken to her facility where they were cleaned up and cared for. It turned out that they were a mother (M58) and daughter (Z00) pair.
 Greg Alderson bringing the injured swan in from the lake ice. The good news is that they have now healed up and were released yesterday to a private pond to continue their recovery and are free to fly off whenever they are up to it.
The third swan, Z74, was also located but had managed get himself cleaned up and didn’t need to go into care.
A good news story about how an alert citizen, the Coalition and the TSRG worked together to help two Trumpeters in distress and return them to the wild.
Trumpeter Swan Restoration Group run by Kyna Itini uses Canada HELPS to raise funds. If you think you’d like to send Kyna and her organization (Amherst Wildlife Foundation) some of the money you’re not able to spend GO HERE
Related news story:
Taking care of the swans.
Pictures of the injured Swans were taken by Greg Alderson; the one of the rescue was taken by Kyna Itini.
By Staff
March 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
It is that time of year again – and there isn’t much the pandemic can do about it.
It is Clean Up Green Up time and registration is now open CLICK HERE to REGISTER.
 Sign up your family, friends, social bubble, colleagues or community group for this safe and impactful, eco-action opportunity. Give back to the planet by participating in an Earth Week Clean Up starting on April 22nd!
FREE clean-up supplies will be available for pick-up at two locations, and we’ve got some great prizes available this year too! Visit our website to learn more and to register your participation.
Thank you to the Ontario Trillium Foundation, the City of Burlington, Cogeco, YourTV and our growing list of supporters for helping to make this impactful opportunity possible. Interested in sponsoring this impactful event? Contact us today!
 By Staff
March 15th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington Foundation last week announced the charities that will receive $146,000 from Phase 4 granting from the Covid-19 Pandemic Response Fund, since the Foundation announced the fund on March 31, 2020.
The Pandemic Response Fund was established to support community-based relief efforts through four phases of granting that has taken place since early 2020. With these new grant awards, the Foundation’s Pandemic Response Fund has provided over $453,000 in grant relief to assist charities in their response efforts recognizing that this pandemic will have long-term implications for the non-profit sector.
“With the second wave of Covid-19 striking our community and driving even more demand for emergency relief, we are very pleased to provide Phase 4 funding of $146,000 to 26 local charities who are working tirelessly to help our community’s most vulnerable citizens during this time of ongoing need,” says Colleen Mulholland, President and CEO of Burlington Foundation.
 Aliya Khawari, Executive Director, Compassion Society of Halton The Compassion Society of Halton received $7,000 in funding. Aliya Khawari, Executive Director, shares, “We are so grateful for the generous funding from the Burlington Foundation for Covid emergency response.
The Compassion Society has been able to provide all the care and basic needs for many who have been deeply impacted by the ongoing pandemic. With mental health issues on the rise and anxiety levels in red due to social isolation and curbing of many social services – accessing food, hygiene and self-care items, clothing and other basic needs should be the last thing for people to worry about.”
The ongoing pandemic also continues to present connectivity challenges for people living with developmental disability. Community Living Burlington received $7,000 to enable the organization to continue providing virtual opportunities and meaningful connections. “Community Living Burlington is incredibly grateful for the support from the Burlington Foundation. During these challenging times, our agency goal is to ensure the people we support still feel connected to their community, and this funding will help us ensure that people will continue to thrive during this pandemic,” says Emily Huang, Senior Manager, Community and Resource Development.
Providing these critical emergency grants in this time of tremendous need would not be possible without the kindness of donors. Our heartfelt thank you to our many donors including: The Paletta Family, Pioneer Energy, Randy and Denise Reeve Family Fund, Milne Family Foundation Fund, Pieczonka Family Foundation Fund, LKH Spirit Fund, BDO Burlington Community Fund, Dalton Timmis Group Fund, and several community donors.
About Burlington Foundation
 Burlington Foundation is a registered charity with over 20 years of experience helping people accomplish their charitable goals and address our city’s most pressing needs. As one of 191 community foundations across Canada, we are dedicated to having a significant impact in Burlington by building legacy endowment funds, providing vital charitable grants, and bringing people together to address important community issues such as flood relief, mental health and now the global Covid- 19 pandemic.
 By Pepper Parr
March 15th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Grief is a part of life.
 We live in a world where for the most part there are family and friends to see you through the grief that has come into your life.
We survive and become better people, wiser people and more appreciative of what we have.
That has changed hasn’t it?
We normally attend funerals for people we knew well, admired, worked with, and will miss. We have not been able to do that, meaning one of the tools we use to come to terms with the grief we are experiencing is no longer there for us to use.
Frank and Doreen Kelly are leading a 13 week course on managing grief that will be held at Glad Tiding Pentecostal Church.
The next 13 week class starts May 5. The meetings will run from 7:00p.m. -9:00p.m .
 Registration is free – the program will take place on line.
The team has held three sessions and is ready to take registrations for the fourth session of 13 weeks that will start in May
You can register HERE.
When you get to the site you select Burlington as the location and then select Glad Tidings Church.
The course is free – there is a nominal cost for a Workbook.
The sessions at this point in time are done via Zoom. The Kellys are part of the Glad Tidings Church in Burlington who are supporting this initiative.
By Staff
March 15th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Harry Lumsden, pictured below, the retired Ministry of Natural Resources Biologist who brought Trumpeter Swans back to Ontario in the 1980s after they had been extirpated for 100 years, with Bev Kingdon who has been with the Trumpeter Swan Restoration project since its earliest days, together at LaSalle Park, Burlington on March 10th 2021.
 The swans appear to be doing just fine. We now have more than 1,000 Trumpeters in this province again, thanks to Harry, Bev and all the other volunteers with the project.
Our thanks to Vince Fiorito for bringing this to our attention
By Blair Smith
March 13th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The pandemic has affected virtually every person on the planet. It has disrupted business, affected all levels and means of social interaction, put accepted norms of behaviour under serious scrutiny, challenged our concepts of family and friends and required everyone to adopt coping mechanisms just to get up and start another day. And perhaps what has suffered most is that which is most necessary for our survival – our ability to hope and see a better time ahead.
 It was not really a Christmas tree any longer but a ‘tree of hope. On a small court in north Burlington, in a well treed and older neighbourhood there is a rather quirky but harmless symbol of one family’s expectations of better times to come – a Christmas tree that has been in place and lit since the pandemic struck almost a year ago. Truthfully, the tree is always slow to come down and be put away. It usually can be seen in the large front window until Easter. It is one of those eccentric expressions of personality that make life just a little more interesting.
And now, for the two retired and disabled seniors who remain in the house, it has become a tree of hope and will stand erect and lit until this pandemic has finally run its course and life returns to a ‘new normal’.
Unfortunately, our capacity for toleration and our ability to appreciate the unconventional seems to have been seriously undermined as Covid-19 strains both our perspectives and our basic decency. Yesterday, the family received a phone call mid-afternoon from a woman who, unidentified, began with an abrupt “You have a Christmas tree in your window”. Somewhat taken aback, they responded with “yes, we do” and were quickly met with “and you have had it there since at least last summer”.
They admitted that this was so and explained that it was not really a Christmas tree any longer but a ‘tree of hope’, a symbol of better times and that it would stay in place until the pandemic finally ends. The angel that would normally crown the tree has been replaced by a butterfly, pointing to regeneration and renewal.
The response was a sarcastic “well that’s absolutely ridiculous! We have a house to sell!” and the caller hung up. And indeed, one of the houses on the court, now empty, has been the focus of a great deal of activity over the past two weeks as professional cleaners and organizers worked to make the house ready for viewing. Was the caller associated with the Realtor? Was she a member of the seller’s family? I doubt the latter as the family are very decent people and have always respected their neighbours and community. Attempts to call back the number met with no success and, frankly, there would be little profit in speaking to whomever made the call anyways.
They simply wouldn’t “get it”.
The first thing that the pandemic took from us was our freedom of movement and often the companionship of our friends and family. As serious as these constraints have been they will also eventually end. However, the emotional isolation that has also been the product of the pandemic, the loss of intimacy and empathy that comes with physical separation may be far longer lasting and far more damaging.
By Staff
March 13th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
We all play a role in recognizing Canada’s volunteers.
Great volunteers come from everywhere.
Until April 8, 2021, Canada’s Volunteer Awards (CVA) will be accepting applications for its National Advisory Committee (NAC).
Members of the National Advisory Committee play a leading role in the selection of Canada’s Volunteer Awards recipients by reviewing nominations and making recommendations to the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development. They also support the promotion of the program throughout their term.
 Volunteers sweep the boardwalk after Hurricane Sandy The committee consists of 15 volunteer members from across Canada who are passionate about volunteering. They are selected based on their knowledge and experience working or volunteering in support of community development. Additionally, members reflect Canada’s diversity and serve for a term of three years. If you have experience in one of the following sectors, you might have what the committee needs:
a not-for-profit organization
the charitable sector
the health sector
the social services sector
a service provider
the private sector, or
a municipality.
Employment and Social Development Canada is accepting applications until April 8, 2021. If you want to learn more about this opportunity or to apply, CLICK HERE
 By Staff
March 12th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Aeris Körper has announced the eighth edition of PROSPECTS: an evening of dance and discussion.
 The work this group does is almost theatre. PROSPECTS brings together local enthusiasts of art and dance with choreographers from the local, regional and international dance community to cultivate creative community dialogue.
I call what Aeris does “progressive dance”. They take huge risks with the dance art form – at times what you see will take your breath away.
Audience members will witness new and in-progress contemporary dance works whose themes will provide the foundation for the evening’s dialogue.
Each work will be followed by a Q&A discussion led by each choreographer, giving the audience an opportunity to ask questions, provide feedback and further examine the ideas presented. There will also be an opportunity to provide written feedback.
“This interactive, informal event brings together community members to share ideas, to learn about contemporary dance and to bring life to the local arts in Burlington,” said Lisa Emmons, Artistic Director.
 On many of the performances you can feel the tension and the expression in the work. Choreographers:
Elena Vazintaris
Emily Williams
Eric Dahlinger
Shreya Bollywood Dance
Thea Sachade
Tickets:
Can be reserved at eventbrite: https://bit.ly/3bpZ1VS
Event Details:
Thursday, March 25th, 2021
8:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Aeris Körper Zoom Room
Many thanks to the City of Burlington Arts and Culture Fund grant and Canadian Heritage for their ongoing support.
By Pepper Parr
March 11, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
 The RBG is a leader in the development of new strains of plants. Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is seeking community leaders to serve on ITS Board of Directors as they embark on the implementation of a Master Planning initiative that aims to position the Gardens as Canada’s leading environmental centre with world-class gardens, natural areas, programs, services and facilities.
As community leaders, Board members possess a well-developed interest in horticultural, conservation, education and related science, along with a commitment to RBG’s mission – to connect people, plants and place for the purpose of nurturing and preserving healthy growing life on our planet.
As a registered charity, RBG is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors comprised of community members, representatives appointed by four levels of government, and a representative from the RBG Volunteers.
The Role
The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing RBG to ensure its viability and sustainability by:
 Almost every variety of lilac you can imagine. These are seen by the RBG Board as assets that have to be protected. · Establishing RBG’s strategic direction and priorities that will ensure fulfillment of its objects as defined in legislation;
· Safeguarding RBG’s resources;
· Monitoring the performance of RBG and the results achieved relative to its strategic priorities;
· Determining the overall approach to governance issues; and,
· Reporting to key stakeholders.
The Board meets at least five times annually, including RBG’s annual meeting. Directors are expected to serve on at least one sub-committee.
 The Tea House – will it reopen soon? Qualifications
We have an immediate requirement for members with experience in:
· Philanthropy and Fund Development
· Government Relations
RBG is also seeking to build a roster of potential talent to be considered for future Board and Committee vacancies with experience in the following areas:
· Risk Management
· Strategic Planning
· Not-for-Profit/Governmental Agency Governance
· Government Relations/Public Administration
· Organizational Effectiveness
RBG is committed to equity and diversity and welcomes applications from all individuals.
HOW TO APPLY
Please reply with a C.V. and covering letter addressed to the RBG Governance Committee c/o Carrie Haans, Executive Assistant to the CEO at chaans@rbg.ca.
 The RBG Arboretum
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