 By Staff
June 9th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Books are your passport to adventure, so get ready to read across the globe this summer by joining Burlington Public Library’s Summer Reading Club (SRC). This exciting reading club is for ages from birth to 17. Read what you want – when you want – how you want. It’s free, it’s fun, and it’s easy. Registration is now open, and everyone is welcome to join.
 Young people don’t have to look very far for a summer reading program. From June 28 to August 24, young readers can set their own weekly reading goal and strive to achieve it. This year, journey around the world one amazing book at a time—and discover new adventures along the way!
“When kids keep reading during the summer, they hold on to the skills they’ve worked so hard to build over the school year,” says Lita Barrie, BPL Chief Executive Officer. “A simple reading goal can make all the difference—helping kids stay sharp, feel confident, and head back to school ready to learn.”
Rewards & Prizes Galore
Although reading a good book is its own reward, participants can visit their nearby branch every week with their Summer Reading Club tracker and check in with Library staff. Share what you’ve read to receive a weekly giveaway prize and a ballot for a chance to win a BPL Prize Pack during three draws throughout the summer. The first prize draw takes place early, so be sure to register for SRC by June 29.
Stay Engaged with Weekly Staff Picks
To keep the momentum going over the 12-week program, we’ll send out freshly curated Staff Picks booklists to participants every week, along with a friendly reminder to check in. These selections are sure to keep young readers and parents engaged and motivated.
“Summer Reading Club is an excellent way to reinforce a positive reading habit while also making the most of all the free programs for kids throughout the summer,” Barrie adds.
There’s always something happening at the library. Find out what’s on this summer at bpl.on.ca/programs and follow us on social media @BurlONLibrary.
 By Pepper Parr
June 9th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Emma Sankey, Executive Director Art Gallery of Burlington along with Susan Busby, the past chair of the AGB board. appeared before Council this morning. The current chair was on vacation.
They were there to speak to the final facility master plan and future needs feasibility study authored by Lord Cultural Resources and Brooke McElroy, architects. They were not able to take part in the Council presentation due to prior commitments. Their work was described as being instrumental to the shaping of the path forward.
 Susan Busby didn’t seem impressed with what Emma Sankey was saying. At this point my ears twitched.
The AGB is asking the city to spend $116 million on what will basically be a new Art Gallery and the Chair of the AGB was not able to arrange her vacation time around the Council meeting schedule.
And the people who designed the master plan had a “prior commitment”.
 Council members were listening – but they didn’t have any questions during the delegation. These Council meetings are put together weeks before they take place.
Something of this size calls for a thorough presentation during which all the stakeholders get to voice their views.
There was nothing from the Guilds, nothing from the people who put on the numerous programs at the AGB.
Why weren’t these people at the podium, especially when Emma said on several occasions that “these plans are foundational to our future vision, supporting Community Access, cultural vibrancy and long-term sustainability.”
The tone throughout was set by Sankey who put it this way:
“We’ll just go quickly. So next slide please. We’re proposing a three-story building. It would be the basement, ground floor, second floor, third floor, the ground floor would be very free, open access. It would have the gift shop, it would have a cafe, and it would have the studios that would be animating the act of making. Would also have space for free family programming. Next slide, please. The second floor, we would become a mission-based gallery. At this point, the second floor would have all of the gallery spaces. So we currently have two and a half, let’s say so we’re going to about five different gallery spaces in this layout with the education center and expansion of the studios. Next slide, please. The third floor would become our events venue rental space, allowing us to maximize revenue with venue rentals in a beautiful space with sweeping views of Lake Ontario and outdoor terraces. Next slide, please. The basement would now host the collection, and there would also be some underground parking. Next slide, please.
This took all of three minutes.
What was the rush – Council had already given the delegation more time if they needed it.
Councillor Kearns asked Susan Busby, through the chair, to talk to us a little bit about how the voices in our community helped to shape this plan, and what engagement activities did you undertake?
 At the end of the delegation, one wondered why there were no Guild members on hand to support the proposal. Where was the architect? Susan Busby: “We had multiple layers of consultation. At first, we started heavily internally with staff. Then we went out and we were working with city staff. I mean, this is city land and the city building, so the consultants interviewed extensively within the staff team.
“We also went out to other cultural partners, like the Joseph Brant Museum, Burlington Performing Arts Center, the libraries, Burlington Downtown, BIA; into the different school systems as well.
“We talked to Sheridan College, Mohawk, Brock University, really trying to be as diverse as possible. We had meetings with the Guild members that utilize the space as well as other AGB members. I would say fairly extensively. And then we also held an indigenous sharing circle. We brought together a significant number of indigenous community members to really speak to the vision of what the gallery would be.
“I have presented the findings to every member of council independently, along with the mayor. I’ve also presented with Executive Director of Economic Development Burlington Tourism. So yes, extensive, constant consultation.
We recall no mention whatsoever about a new building at the 50th Anniversary fundraising event. We do recall the Ontario Arts Council mentioning that they have been financial supporters from the day the Gallery opened.
 Suzanne Carte During an extensive interview with Suzanne Carte, which is yet to be published, she made no mention of a new structure.
 By Pepper Parr
June 9th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Motion for Council to Consider was to receive a presentation from Emma Sankey, Executive Director, Art Gallery of Burlington (AGB) regarding the final report for the Facility Master Plan and Future Needs.
The AGB facility is reaching the end of its life and needs replacing. The building structure and layout was purpose-built as a community center and underwent many renovations to become a public art gallery.
 The Art Gallery as it looks today. The AGB is committed to modernizing its facilities to better serve its audience and become a more relevant cultural destination for Burlington. AGB has now conducted a comprehensive feasibility study and visioning process in consultation with the City of Burlington and stakeholders. The consultants have explored various options for addressing challenges related to institutional and community goals to meet the long-term needs of artists, community members, and stakeholders.
The study is intended to serve as a roadmap outlining short, medium, and long-term strategies to align with existing or future buildings with AGB’s evolving vision; funded in part (40%) by the City of Burlington matching funds for the total cost of ~$250,000.
The Art Gallery is asking Council receive for information the summary outlining the key components of the facility redevelopment strategy:
Same Site Redevelopment:
The plan assumes the redevelopment will occur on the existing AGB site, leveraging its location and accessibility.
New Purpose-Built Gallery Building: Given the conditions of the existing building and site factors (notably the existing sewer trunk line), renovation is not recommended.
A new building is required. Proposed Building Size:
The plan proposes a new facility of approximately 77,000 sq. This would amount to an increase of about 30,000 sq. ft., significantly increasing the capacity for more programs, exhibits, and events while also providing much-needed additional collection storage and processing capacity.
Single-Phase Construction:
The development will proceed in a single construction phase to streamline the process and minimize disruption.
Preserving Craft Maker Studios: The new facility increases the capacity and functionality of the craft studios by increasing the total amount of studio space and offering even greater community access.
What will it cost?
What will it look like?
 Architect’s rendering of what a three-storey Art Gallery would look like.
 By Staff
June 5th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
National Indigenous Peoples Day is a happy, fun-filled free event. The Mayor would like to see all of you there.
All are welcome to join in the festivities.
 The colour and the energy are part of the rich heritage the Indigenous people bring to the community. Location: Spencer Smith Park, west end
Date: Saturday, June 21
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
National Indigenous Peoples Day is a happy, fun-filled free event. All are welcome to join in the festivities.
“National Indigenous Peoples Day, which falls on the longest day of the year, is a vibrant celebration of the strength, artistry, and traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
This special day is an opportunity for all of us to come together to honour the richness and diversity of cultures that have shaped our land for generations. Burlington is proud to stand in partnership with the Urban Indigenous community to support the Solstice Ceremony celebration, and I encourage everyone to join us at Spencer Smith Park to experience the live music, performances, stories, and shared joy that make this day so meaningful.”
 By Andreas Thorson
June 3rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Along Lakeshore Road on a sunny morning, families stroll past cyclists, cafés are packed with remote workers, and the distant hum of weekend GO trains serves as a backdrop to how quickly Burlington has become the GTHA’s sweet spot.
Online conveniences, from buying vintage teak on Facebook Marketplace to checking for the best casino sites in Canada on sites like online-casinos.com for Friday evening entertainment, now rank alongside the city’s famous benchmarks: lake vistas, safe streets, and neighbourly charm. That blend of old-style and tech-savviness is driving record interest from first-time buyers, downsizing Torontonians, and newcomers alike.
Consistently Ranked Among Canada’s Best
Independent studies continue to place Burlington at or close to the top of national livability rankings. MovingWaldo’s 2024 report card graded the city fifth in the country, based on its low Crime Severity Index (31.04), great employment prospects, and access to health care.
 The accolades are anything but a one-time event; MoneySense, Maclean’s, and The Globe and Mail have all highlighted Burlington’s stability and livability in recent years. For prospective residents who want peace of mind without sacrificing urban amenities, those rankings are meaningful.
Housing: A Balanced Market in a Volatile Region
Greater Toronto’s housing story is often one of sticker shock, but Burlington has been able to sustain a relative affordability edge. The average resale price was $1.12 million in May 2025, still steep, but competitive with Toronto’s $1.29 million average and Oakville’s $1.48 million. Interest rate stability and a projected 4.5 per cent price gain for 2025 are indicative of a balanced market, not a speculative boom.
Single-detached product remains the most sought-after segment, reports RE/MAX, while a steady supply of mid-rise condos near GO stations offers entry points for young professionals and downsizers.
Impeccable Connectivity Fuels Commuter Confidence
Location is destiny, and Burlington’s is at the intersection of two economic powerhouses. Drivers have simple access to the QEW, Highway 403, and the 407 ETR, but the larger news is transit: Metrolinx’s GO Expansion program promises 15-minute, two-way, all-day service on the Lakeshore West line, sewing Burlington, Hamilton, and downtown Toronto into a reliable, electrified corridor.
New pedestrian overpasses, schedule enhancements, and integrated Burlington Transit bus routes are already being rolled out, reflecting long-term confidence in car-optional living. For companies that promote hybrid work, that reliability opens the talent pool in both directions.
Nature at the Doorstep, Lake at the Front Porch
 The Mayor calls this the city’s Front Porch.  The Pier: controversial when it was built – a popular place now. From the 900-metre pier next to Spencer Smith Park to the Bruce Trail limestone cliffs, a 10-minute drive north, Burlington offers a return-to-nature experience without ever having to leave the city.
More than 1,400 hectares of legally protected green space thread through the neighbourhoods, including the Royal Botanical Gardens and Hidden Valley Park, which ideally cater to a post-pandemic hunger for outdoor recreation and mental-health refuge. Waterfront access also fuels a paddle-sport culture in boom, while frequent “park-and-bike” trailheads put the Escarpment within reach of every skill level.
A Cultural Calendar That Punches Above Its Weight
 A free festival that runs for four days in June. Quality of life isn’t necessarily measured in square footage. Burlington’s seasonal festivals and events keep residents busy all year round, none bigger than June’s Sound of Music Festival – Canada’s largest free outdoor music festival, now drawing 200,000-plus people over four days.
The Burlington Performing Arts Centre, monthly Art Gallery openings, and a craft-brewery circuit from Plains Road to Aldershot have added new dimensions to the city’s personality. Not only do these sites entertain citizens, but they also support a hospitality sector that employs thousands.
Smart Growth and Sustainable Planning
City Hall’s “Grow Bold” vision funnels density into the three GO station precincts, preserving stable family neighbourhoods while realizing provincial intensification targets. Burlington, Aldershot, and Appleby station-area mixed-use developments incorporate green roofs, EV-ready parking, and pedestrian-priority design, fulfilling buyer demand for sustainable living.
Progressive infrastructure(from the new Joseph Brant Hospital wing to district-energy pilots in Aldershot) illustrates public and private investment in climate-change resilience.
Demographics Behind the Momentum
Population forecasts released this spring have Burlington surpassing large cities along the Halton-Hamilton corridor in percentage growth, driven by interprovincial migration and a 12 per cent spike in international arrivals since 2021.
 A walk-able city. Retirees still love the city’s walkability and healthcare system, but the fastest-growing cohort is tech and business-services professionals aged 28-44 years, an age range that demands reliable broadband, vibrant public spaces, and convenient airport access. Burlington’s ability to satisfy both highly skilled singles and families is expanding its popularity and solidifying its tax base.
The Bottom Line
 The northern part of the city is closed to development, leaving hundreds of acres that can be seen from Mt. Nemo. Where livability rankings, transit investment, smart housing policy, and a multicultural range of cultural amenities converge, momentum isn’t just a marketing slogan: it’s a way of life.
Burlington’s draw is its “Goldilocks” mix of being large enough to support top-notch amenities, yet small enough that neighbours can greet each other by name; close enough to Toronto’s skyscrapers, but rimmed by treed escarpment; connected, but also firmly rooted in neighbourly feeling.
For Canadians looking for their next address, that balance is proving irresistible, and Burlington’s newest welcome mat has never looked more inviting.
 By Pepper Parr
June 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 The Artist in residence program is new to Burlington. It offers a limited cohort of artists a year-long opportunity to explore and experiment in the Gallery’s studios. It is a free, self-directed program available to artists at any stage in their careers. The program is open to creators developing their practice in ceramics, fibre, photography, painting, and emergent modes of artmaking. It provides artists with dedicated time, space, and resources to conduct research and create new work across conceptual, material, and social practices.
Time and space
The independently driven atmosphere and communal environment encourage creative growth, experimentation, and cultivation of new ideas. Artists can research, experiment, and explore free from expectations, meaning that it is not tied to an exhibition. AGB residents enjoy work studios and have over 40 hours of access a week in areas of clay, textiles, photography, 2D, and sculpture.
 The Gallery Courtyard decorated for an event. Artists will have access to our fully accessible studio during assigned hours, studio tools, studio glazes, studio slips, wheels and hand building space, storage space for your work in progress and materials, community firings, and access to view the AGB’s permanent collection.
Community
Professional collaborations and personal connections are often formed when a cohort of multidisciplinary artists mix. Presentations and open studios among the residents are optional and spontaneous, providing opportunities to share work with fellow studio members. AGB offers opportunities to meet local and regional artists, arts professionals, and others that may specifically help advance a resident’s practice and expand their networks.
Residents are encouraged to involve communities and the public through various activations and presentations, such as talks, workshops, screenings, field trips, and new experimental formats working alongside the AGB’s curatorial and learning team.
Click HERE for application details.
 By Pepper Parr
June 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Ray River, our contributing editor, has been writing for the Gazette for more than ten years.
A postgraduate economist, an ardent environmentalist Ray is also a playwright.
 He is currently working on a new two-act play which will open August 21st for a two week run in Hamilton at the Staircase Theatre – folks have been asking for information The LINK for ticket information.
Ray is both directing and performing in the play he wrote: “Never the 51st State.
“The play is an inspiring story of love and valor — of generations defending the freedom of Canada and Ukraine — confronting the dangers of sleeping next to an awakening elephant and a hungry bear”.
The leading female actor came to Canada in the wake of the 2022 Russian invasion of her homeland. Her husband is currently fighting in the army over there.
The play runs for about two hours; there is an intermission with a Q&A period at the end.
The Staircase Theatre is an intimate venue which seats just over 60 guests – so an advanced booking is highly recommended. This link below will take you to the Eventbrite ticket site where you can find out more and purchase an advance ticket.
The is a strong Ukrainian streak in Ray’s cultural DNA.
By Pepper Parr
May 27th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The BPL Book Sale was a great day, with 910 eager shoppers visiting Central Branch on Saturday, May 24.
While they didn’t have an exact count of the number of items available, thye were able to say that “we sold 185 boxfuls of books, DVDs, CDs, and magazines, which generated net proceeds of $3,600.
The funds raised will support Library initiatives and building the collection.
 Books, DVDs, CDs, and magazines ready for the annual BPL Book Sale.
 By Jeannie Løjstrup
May 28th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Let’s get straight to the point: online slots are legal in Ontario. However, that doesn’t mean you can just log into any flashy gambling site and start spinning. There’s a legal framework in place; if you’re not following it, you’re gambling in the dark, and that’s precisely where bad things happen. In 2022, Ontario overhauled its online gambling laws. Now in 2025, it’s one of North America’s most tightly regulated iGaming markets. Still, with offshore sites still accessible, knowing the rules matters more than ever.
The Law
 Everything legal about online gambling in Ontario runs through two names:
- AGCO (Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario): They write the rules.
- iGaming Ontario (iGO): They enforce them by striking deals with private operators.
However, this didn’t appear overnight. For years, online gambling in Canada operated in a legal grey zone. Before 2022, Ontarians could access offshore sites without regulation, oversight, or protection. The Canadian Criminal Code technically restricted gambling to government-run entities, but enforcement was loose, and foreign operators flooded the market.
That changed in April 2022, when Ontario became the first Canadian province to launch a fully regulated, competitive online gambling market. AGCO created a framework, and iGaming Ontario was set up to manage it. This model allowed private companies to enter the market under strict conditions.
If you’re playing online slots legally in Ontario, the operator signed a contract with iGO and follows AGCO’s playbook. That means independent testing, data protection, responsible gambling features, and real accountability.
Offshore casinos? None of that. It’s the Wild West, and that’s being generous.
Age Matters
The first rule is clear. If you’re under 19, you cannot play online slots in Canada. That’s the law. It doesn’t matter if you find a site that doesn’t verify IDs. If you’re underage and gambling, it’s illegal.
Ontario enforces this hard. Licensed platforms will allow you to go through identity verification: ID, address, the whole thing. It’s a bit of a hassle, but that’s what legal compliance looks like.
Underage gambling is a gateway to addiction, and that’s not some overblown moral concept. Every major study on the subject backs it. That’s why the rules are strict.
Spotting a Legal Platform
 So, how do you know a site is legal? Here’s the checklist:
- iGaming Ontario Logo: Should be visible at the bottom of the site. No logo? Bounce.
- AGCO Listing: You can Google it. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario publishes a running list of every licensed operator.
- Responsible Gambling Tools: Legal sites have deposit limits, time trackers, self-exclusion options, and direct links to support services that provide 24/7 mental health and addiction support.
Licensed platforms are upfront about these things because they’re required to be. If a site hides this info, doesn’t verify your ID, or pushes you to deposit with sketchy payment methods? It’s offshore, and you’re gambling without a safety net. No protections. No guarantees. And when things go sideways, no one’s coming to help.
This Isn’t Just About Rules, It’s About Risk
This system exists for two reasons: player safety and money.
Let’s start with safety. Unregulated sites are a breeding ground for scams. Payouts can vanish. Odds can be rigged. Customer support? Don’t count on it. And if these sites shut down overnight, which happens more than you think, you’re out of luck and probably out of cash.
Regulated sites in Ontario play by the book. Their games are audited. Their RNGs (random number generators) are tested. And if you hit a snag, there’s a formal complaints process through iGaming Ontario that doesn’t vanish into thin air.
Then there’s the money. Part of that revenue goes to Ontario’s public budget every time you play on a licensed platform. We’re talking hundreds of millions that fund healthcare, infrastructure, and public education. In the 2024–2025 fiscal year alone, Ontario’s regulated iGaming market brought in $3.2 billion in gross revenue.
Offshore sites? They take your money and run it through tax havens.
The Blueprint of Legal iGaming
Now that we’ve gone through the basics, let’s talk about legal online gambling.
BetMGM is one of Ontario’s flagship licensed operators. It’s reputable, fast, and secure. It offers hundreds of online slot titles from big-name developers. More importantly, it runs on AGCO-approved software. If you win, you get paid.
You can set your limits. You can take a timeout. You can self-exclude entirely. Every move you make is logged and protected.
BetMGM isn’t your back-alley corner bookie. It’s a transparent, regulated online gambling platform built for people who want to play responsibly without getting burned.
Play Smart, Play Legal
 If you live in Ontario and you’re still gambling on sketchy offshore sites in 2025, you’re playing yourself. The province has built a legal system that works. It protects players, it keeps the odds fair, and it gives back to the community. Ignore it, and you’re not just risking your wallet; you’re risking your identity, peace of mind, and future. So yeah, play online slots if you want. But play smart. Play legal. And don’t fall for the illusion of “easy access” on some unlicensed site run out of nowhere. You’re not being slick. You’re being scammed.
By Pepper Parr
May 26th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Every time I get something from the city’s communications people that has the word “vibrant” in it – my knees begin to wobble and I reach for my dictionary.
Vibrant: lively, energetic, and full of life.
 This is what it’s all about. People sitting outside and enjoying the Sound of Music. Vibrant? Naw! I’m not buying it. Sound of Music isn’t vibrant – it is a wonderful, laid-back occasion when you get to listen to music you’d never heard before.
Nevertheless, the city is going to craft a new Culture Plan to guide the next decade (2026–2036) of arts and culture growth. This plan will help shape the future of Burlington’s arts and culture programs, services and investments. The Culture Plan will contribute to a future that is vibrant, inclusive and rooted in Burlington’s community.
The City is inviting residents and artists to get involved in the creation of its new Culture Plan.
Public Engagement
The City will be offering many ways for residents and the Arts and Culture community to share their ideas for Burlington’s arts and culture future. Over the next six months, staff will be connecting with residents, artists, cultural professionals, organizations and communities across Burlington.
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
1 to 2:30 p.m.
In-person sessions – Art Gallery of Burlington
1333 Lakeshore Rd., Burlington
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
6 to 8:30 p.m.
or
 Tents set up in Civic Square during a cultural event. Wednesday, June 25, 2025
11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
RSVP to participate in a Culture Jam Workshop
Event booths and pop-up
Over the summer, staff will be visiting busy parks, festivals and events to hear directly from residents. There will also be self-directed activities in public spaces such as libraries and community centres.
Residents can subscribe for updates at getinvolvedburlington.ca/cultureplan to get updates as information is added to the page.
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 By Staff
May 25th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
This is an early notice. A Drawn from Clay: A Ceramic Collage Workshop is being offered Saturday, June 21, 1–4 pm at the Lee-Chin Family Gallery
$50 | $45 FOR MEMBERS
 Breanna Shanahan. Here is how the Gallery describes the event.
Let the AGB’s collection inspire you in this hands-on drawing and collage workshop in the Lee-Chin Family Gallery.
Participants are invited to draw in response to the many unique ceramics on view in A Curve, Not a Line, then learn how to cut and combine their drawings to tell new stories through collage under the guidance of artist and educator Breanna Shanahan.
Register today–spaces are limited. Register HERE
By Pepper Parr
May 19th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Are photo ops the bread and butter of political life in Burlington?
 Sometimes, there is a genuine public benefit.
Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns has made the photo op both an art and a science. She frequently outdoes the Mayor and THAT is saying something
One that caught our attention recently was Kearns and a bingo card – a huge bingo card.
What was all that we wondered – so we asked.
The Bingo games that take place at the Polish Hall donate a portion of their revenue to local charities.
Excited? Lisa Kearns was – did any of her cards win?
She didn’t say
 These are the organizations that benefit from the Bingo Games played regularly at the Polish Hall.
By Staff
May 19th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
It was a great idea – and it looks as if it is actually going to get off the ground.
 St. Luke’s Anglican church, built on land that the British gave to Joseph Brant for his service. If you stand on Elgin Avenue and look to the north you will see St. Luke’s Anglican church.
Turn around and look south to the lake – and there is a clear path (well almost clear) pathway to the lake.
The church and the land were part of the Brant land grant that was deeded by the Brant family.
Over time, developments took place and the strip of land to the lake got crowded by residential development.
The people at St. Likes decided that it was time to make that pathway more accessible to the public and they took their thought to ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns.
She loved the idea, took it to the planning department – they quickly pointed out that there was a problem with clear public access – there was a roadway cutting across the possible path that led to a city-owned parking lot.
 Done properly it will be a really nice addition to a strip of land that has never been used. Kudos to St. Luke’s for the initiative. They came up with a solution that City Council agreed with – approved it – and it goes to Council later this week
Authorize the Executive Director of Environment, Infrastructure and Community
Services to collaborate with St. Luke’s Church on the feasibility of a new publicly accessible walkway from Elgin Street to Lakeshore.
St. Luke’s Anglican Church is located on the north side of Elgin Street between Nelson Avenue and Burlington Street in downtown Burlington. Directly across from the church, is a long narrow stretch of land that is owned in part by the City and the Church.
Since the original construction of the church in 1834, this long stretch of land that extends from the south side of Elgin Street to Lakeshore Road has provided an uninterrupted view to Lake Ontario
The Church has approached the ward Councillor and City staff to see if there is an interest in working together to build an accessible public walkway from Elgin to Lakeshore, which would span across lands owned by both the City and the Church. The lands owned by the Church are referred to as “Church Avenue”.
The concept was sound; however, one of the biggest challenges with this idea is that the city-owned lands to the north currently support the parking lot driveway entrance into Lot #10. The driveway is a physical barrier to safe pedestrian movement through Church Avenue.
 Joseph Brant will be very pleased. Since the City owns the lands in the former Hydro/Rail Corridor between Church Avenue and Nelson Avenue, it is possible to relocate the parking lot #10 driveway entrance to Nelson Avenue and eliminate all vehicular traffic on Church Avenue. This would free up the landscape for pedestrian-only movement and use of the space.
After some initial meetings, staff feel that this is a great opportunity to explore and would like Council’s support and direction to proceed further with the proposal.
Council did just that last week. Later this week, we can expect Council to approve it – and in the fullness of time, there will be a pleasant pathway from Elgin to the lake.
Joseph Brant will be pleased.
 By Staff
May 16th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Gotta SING, Gotta DANCE! is an exciting tribute to the art of staying young, showcasing music, comedy and dance.
It’s a lavish production featuring a brand new lineup of upbeat and fast-paced entertainment presented by the inspiring talents of the Burlington Footnotes.
Tue Jun 17, 2025 at 2pm & 7pm
Tickets HERE
 By Staff
May 16th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
ATTENTION Parents! Guardians! Grandparents! Caregivers! Aunts! Uncles! Elders! Teachers! Principals! Students! Mentors! Youth Workers! Educational Support Staff! School Trustees! Lifelong Learners and Allies in Education!
The Burlington Performing Arts Centre has announced its BPAC ONSTAGE offering, their new season of exceptional performances for students from Kindergarten to Grade 12.
Their team has selected 16 performances and workshops designed to inspire a lifelong appreciation for the performing arts while bringing the Ontario Arts Curriculum to life.
You are invited to share news of our 25/26 BPAC ONSTAGE Season with the educators and learners in your life!
For only $10 per student ticket, the 25/26 BPAC ONSTAGE Education Series is exclusive to schools and offers students a window into the dynamic world of dance, theatre and music.
 An in-depth backstage tour and hands-on demonstration led by BPAC’s talented technical team New for the 25/26 Season, BPAC Backstage is an in-depth backstage tour and hands-on demonstration led by BPAC’s talented technical team, designed for high school-aged students considering a career in the technical performing arts!
 Golden Ticket Program provides FREE tickets to performances from our Education Series BPAC’s Golden Ticket Program provides FREE tickets to performances from the Education Series to students who would otherwise not be able to access these events. This program would not be possible without the generous support and donations from our community members like you!
Help us continue to enrich the lives of Burlington youth by donating to our Golden Ticket Program. You will receive a full tax receipt for donations of $25 or more.
For more information and how to donate, please visit: burlingtonpac.ca/golden-ticket
By Eric Stern
May 15th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Ottawa’s tulip festival can trace its roots back to World War II. After the Nazi invasion of the Netherlands, Princess Juliana took refuge in Ottawa along with her two young daughters. While in Ottawa, a third daughter, Princess Margriet, was born. For the birth, the Ottawa Civic Hospital was declared Dutch soil.
Along with Princess Margriet, the “Tulip Legacy” was born. After returning to the Netherlands, the Dutch Royal Family began sending tulip bulbs to Ottawa and has been doing so ever since.
This gift has inspired the Canadian Tulip Festival, now the largest of its kind in the world.
Providing a safe haven for the Dutch Royal Family is one small part of the friendship between the two countries. Canada played a crucial role in the liberation of the Netherlands during World War II.
The Parliament Buildings, visible in the background, are undergoing a massive renovation and restoration project.
By Staff
May 15th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 Burlington’s very first coffee party—Private Coffee Sessions Vol. 1—happening this Sunday, May 18 at Hola Café & Market.
The event drops May 18th, at Hola Café & Market: Latin beats, specialty brews, and the city’s best vibes, turning your Sunday plans into something unforgettable. —one Sunday only.
In collaboration with Montañeros Coffee Corp and DJ collective MXJ, the first-ever coffee party in Burlington taking place Sunday, May 18th from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Hola Café, 2156 Mountain Grove Ave, this RSVP-only event is free to the public (with limited capacity) and promises an afternoon full of soul, sabor, and seriously good coffee.
Here’s the brew:
- Burlington’s first-ever coffee party
- Official Listening Party for MXJ’s latest project
- Live DJ sets by MXJ and 2 special guest DJs
- Specialty coffee by Montañeros Coffee Corp
- Latin snacks like empanadas and tequeños available for purchase
- Giveaways for the fastest guests:
First 15 – unlimited coffee
Next 15 – one free cup
PLUS – we’ll be announcing the winner of our online giveaway live at the party.
To enter, follow us on Instagram and join the celebration: @holacafemarket, @musicbymxj, @montaneroscoffee
 Food and drink will be available throughout the party, and if you’re craving a full meal, head over to the restaurant side patio (open 10 AM – 5 PM) to enjoy full service and our special weekend dish: lechona, a traditional slow-roasted pork feast from Latin America. “At Hola, we believe food and music are the two most powerful ways to bring people together. Private Coffee Sessions is our way of inviting the community into that magic—natural flavors, Latin rhythms, and a space that feels like home,” says the Hola Café team.
This promises to be a new tradition for Burlington—an intimate, music-infused coffee party that blends community, culture, and curated vibes. It’s free, but once we hit capacity, doors close. Be early, be ready, be part of the story.
Location: Hola Café & Market, 2156 Mountain Grove Ave, Burlington, ON Date & Time: Sunday, May 18th, 1:00 PM–5:00 PM
By Staff
May 14th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 What you can do and what you can’t do.
What is open and what isn’t open.
Fireworks are permitted to be set off on Victoria Day only (May 19). Please continue to use our valued outdoor spaces responsibly – community cooperation is essential to helping keep everyone safe during Victoria Day. The City’s bylaw regulates where and when residents can set off family (low hazard) fireworks. For more information about who to contact if you have a concern, visit burlington.ca/fireworks.
Will Toronto have won the Stanley Cup by Monday?
| City Service |
Holiday Closure Information |
| Animal Services
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The Animal Shelter at 2424 Industrial St. will be closed to appointments on Monday, May 19. To report an animal control related emergency on a holiday, please call 1-888-264-3135. |
| Burlington Transit |
Burlington Transit will operate on a Sunday schedule on Monday, May 19. For real-time bus information and schedules visit myride.burlingtontransit.ca.
Customer Service at the Burlington GO Station, 2101 Fairview St., and Specialized Dispatch will be closed on Monday, May 19. |
| City Hall |
Service Burlington and the Building, Renovating and Licensing counter on the main floor of City Hall at 426 Brant St., will be closed on Monday, May 19.
Many service payments are available online at burlington.ca/onlineservices. If your request is urgent, call 905-335-7777 to connect with the City’s live answering service.
For online development services, MyFiles can be used by residents who have applied for Pre-Building Approval. Check the status of Pre Building Approval applications at burlington.ca/MyFiles. |
| Halton Court Services – Provincial Offences Office |
Court administration counter services at 4085 Palladium Way will be closed on Monday, May 19.
With the exception of the Victoria Day closure, telephone payments are available at 905-637-1274, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. All in-person services are available from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Many services are also available by email at burlingtoncourt@burlington.ca or online at Halton Court Services. Payment of Provincial Offences fines is available 24/7 at paytickets.ca. |
| Parking |
On Sunday, May 18 and Monday, May 19: Free parking is available downtown, on the street, in municipal lots and in the parking garage (414 Locust St.).
On Saturday, May 17: Pay parking downtown is required in high-demand parking lots (Lots 1, 4 and 5) and all on-street metered parking spaces. A three-hour maximum is in effect for all on-street spaces. Free parking is available in the remaining municipal lots and the parking garage (414 Locust St.).
 NOTE:
- The Waterfront parking lots (east and west) do not provide free parking on holidays.
- Parking exemptions are required to park overnight on city streets and for longer than five hours. Visit burlington.ca/parkingexemptions to register for a parking exemption.
- Paid parking, on weekends only (including long weekends), at Beachway Park (1100 Lakeshore Rd.) begins Saturday, May 17 using HONK Mobile.
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| Recreation Programs and Facilities |
Drop-In Recreation Activities
Tansley Woods Pool at 1996 Itabashi Way and Centennial Pool at 5151 New St. are open on Victoria Day, Monday, May 19 for recreational and lap swimming. Drop-in swimming, skating and other program times vary for the long weekend. Drop in or reserve in advance. For schedules visit
burlington.ca/dropinandplay.
Splash Pads Opening
City splash pads will begin opening on Saturday, May 17, with all 10 locations ready by May 24. For a list of locations, visit burlington.ca/splashpads.
Outdoor Activities
Burlington has a wide variety of outdoor activities to enjoy with your family during the long weekend, including:
- trails and multi-use paths
- parks and playgrounds.
- picnic site reservations for LaSalle Park (50 North Shore Blvd. E.) or Hidden Valley Park (1137 Hidden Valley Rd.)
Find out more at burlington.ca/outdoorplay.
Golf
Tee times at Tyandaga Golf Course (1265 Tyandaga Park Dr.) can be booked online at tyandagagolf.com or by calling 905-336-0005, ext. 2.
Play Lending Library
Our Lending Library has a variety of outdoor and indoor play equipment available to borrow at no charge. Equipment pickup is on Thursdays, and return drop off is on Tuesdays at Haber Community Centre (3040 Tim Dobbie Dr.). From archery to wiffle ball, and Kanjam to pickleball, reserve at burlington.ca/playlending.
Customer Service
Recreation, Community and Culture customer service is available to assist you over the holiday weekend:
- In person at recreation facility counters during program times (May 17 to 19)
- By email at liveandplay@burlington.ca (May 17 and 18)
- By phone at 905-335-7738, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. (May 17 and 18)
Phone and email service are closed on Victoria Day, Monday, May 19. |
| Roads, Parks and Forestry |
The administrative office will be closed on Monday, May 19. Essential services will be provided as required. |
Link to the story about the Queen being celebrated
By Pepper Parr
May 14th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Part two of a two-part article on the Burlington Library CEO
“Our demographics.” There isn’t a lot of data, said Lita Barrie.
We don’t do a lot of gender-based analysis when we do our annual customer satisfaction survey. Typically, we weren’t asking people for demographic information, but this past year we did, and it definitely skews to women.
Who uses the library and how many people work there?
Number of staff FTE – 140
Number of books on shelves – BPL’s Collection totals 345,352 items – 305,662 physical items on the shelves
Number of videos on shelves – DVD’s comprise of 11% of BPL annual checkouts.
How many people hold a library card – 93,322 Active Library Card holders (i.e used within the last 2 years)
 Reading as a concept, whether as a social determinant of health, as a source of learning and growth, or even just for mental well-being is part of what libraries are in place to do. “Just be hazarding a guess to say how many, but it’s interesting, because definitely, for our author events, our book clubs, there tends to be a gender disparity between these and those just borrowing from the library.
“I think we’re seeing, even though we’re in sort of an information age where we’re surrounded with information, there’s more research happening now around attention span, because I think one of the things that people really struggle with is the long form of a book and being able to hold your attention to read for a longer period of time, but reading as a as a concept, whether as a social determinant of health, as a source of learning and growth, or even just for mental well being as a dream stressor. I think that’s the part you know.
 Books that were on hold and are now available are placed here for people to pick up. For those of us who are readers, we know all this. We know all of the things that reading brings us. But for people who haven’t had that; they haven’t discovered that, or they face challenges around that, convincing people of the value can be a bit of a hard sell.”
How do libraries work with educators?. Do they influence each other?
“Definitely, within the library sector, and this could be one of the things that we’ve seen in Canada over the last number of years, is a decline in school libraries. So definitely, kids aren’t having as much of a presence of the library in their elementary and secondary school experience, and that’s particularly true in Ontario.
“We work with educators when we look to find partnerships. “Teachers have big jobs, particularly now with all the things happening in society; the types of partnerships that we used to have is less common now, just because the school boards and teachers just don’t have the time or capacity for those types of collaborative relationships, which I think is a detriment to our ability to really make an impact, but we try to recognize that and find ways that we can engage. I used to have working relationships with educators at the start of my career.
 “The biggest factor in whether a child is a reader is their parent. “The biggest factor in whether a child is a reader is their parent. It’s not just being read to, it’s seeing literature at home, observing a parent. Those are some of the biggest determinants of whether someone is a reader.”
Is there anything that your people can do to work on the disinformation side?
“Very timely question. Definitely, that’s an area of focus we’re looking at. I was part of a podcast we worked on with the Privy Council on misinformation, disinformation, and trying to think about how we as librarians can play a more active role in that.
“We have found that the more confident we feel about our position on something, the more susceptible we are to misinformation.”
 Audience during the recording of the CBC Ideas program at the BPL.  CBC’s radio program Ideas recorded one of their program at the Burlington Central Library; the program was broadcast a couple of weeks later. Lita was not part of the CBC program just to introduce people – she was an active participant along with Ira Wells and Nahlah Ayed (Host, CBC IDEAS). Wells was speaking about an experience he had at his child’s school where they were reviewing the collection. The idea was that there would be nothing in the library that was printed for a certain time period.
“I share his belief that this is such a loss, because we librarians are on the front lines of providing the public with not just books – but a wide wide range of tools that educate, inform and entertain people.
 Lita Barrie (CEO, Burlington Public Library), Sabreena Delhon (CEO, The Samara Centre for Democracy), Meg Uttangi Matsos (Director, Service Design & Innovation, BPL), Nahlah Ayed (Host, CBC’s IDEAS), and Ira Wells (Professor, University of Toronto, critic & author). “The books coming in have expanded exponentially.
“The number and volume of reading material that is published on an annual basis, far exceeds our capacity from a budget standpoint, but I think our collection grows more as a partnership, because our team selects based on demand and what people are reading. We also try to balance that with making sure we have breadth and depth and scope, because we don’t want to be so driven by popular demand that you’re not walking into the library discovering something that you never imagined existed. It’s definitely a balance.
“We curate to a certain extent, that’s more of a business driven from our leaders. Our team works with a vendor. People also want the book the moment it’s printed. So we have partnerships with our vendors, we have something called an automatic release plan based on a profile of the type of collection that we have in the library.
“We get our copies of the book on the shelves quickly, that drives the bulk of our collection. Our team refines the selections that adds to the edges of what goes on our shelves; the process helps us build a very complete collection.
Is there anybody on staff able to say to somebody they’re talking to: there’s a book I think you should read?
 Lita Barrie: ‘It can be a bit of a nerve-wracking figuring out what people might want.’ “I have Pepper. I would hope that the majority of the people on our team would be able to do that, because that was one of the things that we’ve really focused because that can be a bit of a nerve-wracking figuring out what people might want. We’ve developed additional training for our team to ask questions: what does that look like, so that people can understand when they’re talking to someone about what they’ve read they can determine – is it the writing style, is it the content, is it the genre, and then being able to have a conversation with someone else.
“What part of that book did you really like, let them be able to point them in directions, and definitely, technology helps hugely for that, in terms of, you know, the way our catalogue is able to pull like the crazy word that you’ve never heard of.
Does Shakespeare matter we asked. “Yes – Shakespeare – on a daily basis, no, but it’s part of that breadth and that history of English literature that is the core of what it written and what is read.
 “One of the things we’re trying to encourage in people is to nurture themselves and nurture the lives of their children. It’s giving ourselves that space and that time to just let ourselves be immersed in something because there’s such a different experience between that immersion and the flip, flip, flip of the you know, video shots of information that people are getting through social media.
“I think I’m okay with where I’m going and what I’m doing with the library; it’s as much about who you are and the institution you’re in and where you’re going to take that institution at this point. When we celebrated our 150th a few years ago we recognized we are part of a profession that has such a legacy to it; there are people you will never know, who led the waves or created the opportunity for you to be here in that moment and then to hold that responsibility and think, okay, 150 years from now when BPL celebrates its 300th anniversary; what will we have we done in this moment to secure that future and make sure that the institution still has value and meaning.
 New Appleby Library at the Bateman Community Centre will have 10,000 square feet of space. Lita needed me to know that the Appleby Library at the Bateman Community Centre is going to give them an additional 10,000 square feet. “I don’t think most people realize just how big an operation it is going to be. We have dates for when the book shelves and those things will be moving in over the summer. Early fall is the date penciled in at this point.
We’ve spent so much time looking at the drawings. We’ve been working with the planning people going on five years for this project; it was a renovation of the school, which complicated things. It’s going to be really bright. The library board decided not to call the branch the Bateman branch. Currently it’s called New Appleby and that name will be used when we open at the Bateman Center.
 Lita Barrie: “I’m still having a lot of fun in Burlington.” What’s next? “
“Well, I’m still having a lot of fun in Burlington, so I have no I have no plans beyond, the work we are currently doing.
“I have the ability to work with the board, to really guide where the library is going; it’s just such a phenomenal time.”
Links:
Part 1 of this 2-part article.
 By Staff
May 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Every community has groups of people who perform: singers, musicians, choirs – they practice for hours and take great joy from what they do.
 Alexander Cappellazzo Tenor Soloist On Saturday, May 10th.
The Burlington Civic Chorale will perform at St. Christopher’s Anglican Church.
Giacomo Puccini was an Italian composer known primarily for his operas. Regarded as the greatest and most successful proponent of Italian opera after Verdi, he was descended from a long line of composers, stemming from the late Baroque era.
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By Staff
