 By Staff
May 10th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Five community groups will be splitting $20,636 for community projects as part of this year’s Neighbourhood Community Matching Fund program.
The selected groups will receive up to 50 per cent of their project funding from the city, up to a maximum of $5,000. The community groups behind each project will then match this funding with an equal contribution made through any combination of volunteer hours, donated services, donated materials and supplies or other funds raised, such as cash donations.
Neighbourhood Community Matching Fund recipients:
Mindfulness in the Park:
• Organizing free mindfulness sessions in park settings in Aldershot and Elizabeth Gardens communities.
• Sessions will be open to all Burlington residents.
 The proposed mural. Neurodiverse Universe – Art Mural Project:
• A neighbourhood art project to bring awareness, acceptance and appreciation to the greater community of the skills and talents of people with autism.
• Location for project to be determined.
 Fencing – why are residents being asked to pay for this fencing? Isn’t it something Parks and Recreation should be taking care ? Live Out Loud – Outdoor Play Spaces
• Providing fencing to create safe outdoor play spaces (basketball court and play area) for all Burlington residents in the Guelph Line, Woodward and Prospect communities.
Burlington Food Bank Community Garden Expansion
• Community garden expansion in Maple Park Community Gardens will provide fresh produce to clients of the Burlington Food Bank.
Walk with a Doc – Hamilton Burlington Trails Association
The program will offer 12 community walks on Burlington community trails and in community parks. Walks are led by local doctors and health care providers, including a short health talk at the start of each walk.
These projects will be worked on over the next year. Neighbourhood or community groups interested in learning more about the Neighbourhood Community Matching Fund criteria and guidelines for funding can visit burlington.ca/matchingfund. Information about 2019 application and submission deadlines will be available in Fall 2018.
This is the third year of the Neighbourhood Community Matching Fund. In 2016, $35,000 was provided to eight community groups and in 2017, $26,100 was provided to six community projects.
 By Staff
May 9th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The City of Burlington honoured 30 nominees and eight award winners at the annual Burlington’s Best Awards ceremony at the Performing Arts Centre this evening.
The eight Burlington’s Best categories included:
Heritage Award
Community Service Award
Environmental Award
Arts Person of the Year
Accessibility Award
Junior Citizen of the Year
Senior Person of the Year
Citizen of the Year
2017 Burlington’s Best Award winners
Heritage Award
This award is sponsored by Heritage Burlington, a City of Burlington citizen advisory committee made up of 14 volunteers who provide advice to City Council on issues related to the conservation of Burlington’s cultural heritage.
The award goes to an individual or group who has demonstrated a long-term commitment to the preservation of Burlington’s heritage, and has volunteered his or her time to support the preservation of Burlington’s heritage in 2017.
Winner: Friends of Freeman Station
 F OFS In 2005, a group of interested citizens expressed a desire to save Freeman Station. In 2011, that group became the Friends of Freeman Station (FOFS). To date, over 8,000 volunteer hours have contributed to restoring one of the very few remaining Grand Trunk Railway stations in Canada. In 2017, during Canada’s sesquicentennial, the FOFS hosted two open houses which attracted over 1,000 visitors each day, including representatives from all three levels of government. From the beginning, seven years ago, the FOFS have stayed true to its goal of restoring the Freeman Station and creating a foundation for a sustainable and useful future.
Community Service Award
This award is sponsored by Cogeco, a diversified communications company that strives to meet the communication needs of consumers and advertisers through cable distribution and radio broadcasting.
The Community Service Award is given to an individual or group whose volunteer activity has contributed to the betterment of the Burlington community in 2017.
Winner: Kim Moss
Moss has been the administrator, organizer, public voice, and driving force behind the group ‘Burlington Rocks’. What started as a fun summer distraction of painting and hiding rocks for a few families has turned into a city-wide phenomenon for kids and adults alike. The Burlington Rocks initiative has inspired residents to connect and explore the city in a way that they have not done in the past. People are enjoying green spaces, helping by picking up trash, and getting out into the community. Thanks to Moss’ initiative, youth have gotten involved and are doing things with families and friends in the community that can help keep them civically minded as they mature into adults. Through her leadership, the Burlington Rocks group also helped with fundraising for local families and charities, raising awareness for children’s cancer, hospital needs and school fundraisers.
Environmental Award
This award is sponsored by Walker Environmental Group, a leading waste management company that develops solutions for environmental challenges—solutions that are socially, economically and environmentally sustainable—including aerobic composting, alternative energy production and environmental project management. The company’s diverse range of services provides sustainable solutions that reduce waste, improve energy efficiency and enhance the environment.
The Environmental Award is given to an individual or group that improved and/or protects Burlington’s environment in 2017.
Winner: Gloria Reid
 Gloria Reid – taking care of the environment – one weed at a time. Reid has volunteered hundreds of hours of her time in 2017 to BurlingtonGreen’s projects and events. She serves on three committees and is currently the president of the Board of Directors providing leadership, inspiration and stability to our volunteer-driven organization. Reid worked tirelessly with fellow volunteers, developing a strong, healthy strategic plan that will help guide BurlingtonGreen’s eco initiatives successfully into the future. She has also volunteered with Community Development Halton and worked extensively with the City of Burlington to help develop and implement its Community Engagement Charter.
Arts Person of the Year
THE K.W. IRMISCH AWARD
The Arts Person of the Year Award was donated to the City of Burlington by the Irmisch family to recognize the importance of the arts in the community and to recognize all the volunteers who work so hard to showcase the amazing talent and culture of Burlington.
The award is given to an individual who has contributed to the arts in Burlington as an artist, patron or advocate, including, but not limited to, visual arts, media arts, musical arts, performing arts and literary arts in 2017.
Winner: Teresa Seaton
 A well deserved award – name an arts community initiative – and Teresa Seaton was in there somewhere. Seaton has helped elevate arts and culture in Burlington with her outstanding fine glass art, her significant Burlington studio and gallery and her leadership as one of our community’s major champions for the arts. She was one of the leaders of the Arts and Culture Collective of Burlington to support local artists and art, which led to the creation of Burlington’s first arts council in 2017. As a leader in the community, Seaton has chaired Burlington’s annual Art in Action Studio Tour showcasing Burlington artists, is a founding member of the Artistic Group of Glass (AGOG) and has donated her time and art to Yard Sale for the Cure, Jane’s Walk, SOCKS, and Sister Circle.
Accessibility Award
The Accessibility Award is sponsored by the Burlington Accessibility Advisory Committee whose mission is to provide advice on the identification, removal and prevention of barriers to people with disabilities in the municipality’s bylaws, policies, programs and services.
The award is given to an individual, organization or business that has made significant contributions to increase access and participation of people with disabilities in the Burlington community in 2017.
Winner: Bill Murray
Murray has provided a tremendous opportunity for children with special needs to have access to music through a variety of ways. His music therapy program shows children the beauty and power of music and has transformed many of the kids in his programs. Through Murray’s tireless dedication to his students, he has been able to find ways for kids who struggle with verbal communication to communicate through music. He has found ways to make instruments accessible for children with fine motor skill difficulties or significant physical disabilities. Murray believes that every child should have a chance to make music regardless of their abilities and that, through music, they create memories and friendships which will last a lifetime.
Junior Citizen of the Year
Youthfest was founded in 2002, and avidly promotes the importance of youth in our community, develops youth responsibility and action in the community and connects youth to meaningful volunteer opportunities and available supportive service. The winner will receive a $500 bursary, courtesy of the Bank of Montreal, which has been a leading and supportive partner since the inception of Youthfest.
The Junior Citizen of the Year Award is given to a youth, 14 to 18 years of age, who has made a significant contribution to the Burlington community in 2017.
Winner: Addison Wood
Wood is a very kind, gentle and loving person who wants to make a difference in her community. She volunteers at the Friday Night Community Dinners at Wellington Square Church. She ensures that she is there every week to help make each child feel engaged in the children’s section. Addison is also a part of the Nelson High School Interact Club where she was involved in several projects, including the Bethany House project, which involved buying, wrapping and delivering Christmas gifts to adults with cognitive illnesses. Wood has proven to be a diligent and dependable young member of Burlington who inspires others by her actions and leadership.
Senior Person of the Year
Canadian-owned and operated, Schlegel Villages’ mission is to provide holistic health care in-home environment, located within an internal neighbourhood design that promotes a caring community, with emphasis on optimal health and life purpose for each resident. The Village of Tansley Woods offers a rich selection of programs and activities year around. The Village is designed to build a community while serving residents’ personal needs and wants.
The Senior Person of the Year Award is given to a Burlington resident aged 55 years or older who has made a significant contribution to the Burlington community and/or advocated on behalf of seniors in 2017.
Winner: Mae Radford
 Mae Radford – decades of community service recognized. Radford is a very active Burlington volunteer and leader who improves the lives of citizens in the community. She has driven the creation, funding and operation of Circle of Friends serving as Leader/Director/Senior Officer. Mae has successfully created partnerships with the McMaster School of Nursing and Burlington Central Public School to bring value to the program and the partnerships. Radford’s other community leadership roles include, but are not limited to, the Advisory Committee on Violence against Women, member of the Ontario Human Rights Commission, Rotary Burlington Music Festival, Board of Directors with Joseph Brant Hospital and the Carpenter Hospice. Radford’s commitment in volunteering her time, personal abilities and gifts to support local organizations and projects to make our community better is remarkable and inspiring.
Citizen of the Year Award
The City of Burlington is a unique city within the Greater Toronto Area that is defined by both significant urban and rural areas. The city is proud of its clean, safe, close-knit neighbourhoods, many employment opportunities and commitment to alternative ways of getting around. The City of Burlington’s vision is to be a city “that grows, moves, is healthy, green and engaging.”
The Citizen of the Year Award is given to a person whose volunteer activity has made a significant and sustained contribution to the vibrancy and wellbeing of the Burlington community in 2017.
Winner: Osob Adus
 Osob Adus, an essential member of the organizing team for the One Burlington Festival Adus is a mother of four and a full-time worker, yet she never goes a day without helping her community. She is passionate about everything she does and is a genuine role model for the Burlington community. Adus was an instrumental leader in building a playground at the mosque for the community and surrounding neighbourhoods to enjoy. Adus was the lead for an annual youth soccer tournament as well as working with city staff to create a culturally friendly swim. She was an essential member of the organizing team for the One Burlington Festival, which promoted religious tolerance and education. Her commitment, enthusiasm and desire to the serve the community have made a difference in many lives.
The Gazette regrets that t did not have photographs of all the BEST award winners in its photo bank.
About Burlington’s Best
Burlington’s Best Awards are managed by a citizens’ committee established in 1965 with the mandate of recognizing Burlington residents who bring honour to the city and make a difference in the community.
 By Staff
May 9th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Not quite real summer weather yet – but time perhaps to think in terms of where you want to send the kids during the summer. – summer camp?
The Port Nelson United Church operates a three week summer camp program. They are now taking registration for their 2018 GLEE Camps.
 Happy Campers 2018 DATES:
Week 1:
Monday, July 9 to Friday, July 13
Week 2:
Monday, July 23 to Friday, July 27
Week 3:
Tuesday, August 7 to Friday, August 10 (a 4-day camp)
All Camps run from 9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday (except week 3 which is Tuesday to Friday), with GLEE Concerts open to the public on the Thursdays at 3pm.
The major renovations at Port Nelson Church are well underway, and we look forward to welcoming GLEE into the renovated space in 2019. However, for this year – 2018 – all GLEE Camps will be held at Wellington Square United Church, 2121 Caroline Street, Burlington.
The Friday outdoor activities and movie day will be held at the Burlington Lions Club Hall, 471 Pearl Street, Burlington (just 2 blocks from Wellington Square Church). Note that, while the location is changing, GLEE Camp remains a program of Port Nelson United Church, including registrations, staffing, and all aspects of the programming.
LEADERSHIP:
Claire Sweeny will once again be our Camp Director for 2018! Application information for other senior staff and counsellors will be made available in the coming weeks.
COST:
The cost of the 2018 camps will remain the same as last year: $100 per week ($80 for Week 3).
FAMILY REGISTRATION:
Family Registration for Glee Camp Port Nelson United Church Family Registration Log In Page, Port Nelson United Church
Online Family Registration section is now open. Register your family and save your information. You will receive an email to confirm your Family registration.
CAMP REGISTRATION:
On-line camp registration began in late February for all weeks of camp on a first-come, first served basis. Registration is limited to 80 children per camp. Last year, all three camps were full, so please plan accordingly.
OTHER INFORMATION:
Light Snacks provided. Campers bring their own lunch. Camper to Counsellor ratio is 10:1. Counsellors are high school students from Port Nelson Church and our local community, supported by the Camp Director, and staff from our church.
 By Staff
May 8th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington Public Library Board Chair, Brian Kenny, announced today that Lita Barrie has been appointed to position of Chief Executive Officer, effective June 4, 2018.
 Lita Barrie, new CEO for the Burlington Library Ms Barrie has progressively advanced in senior positions since starting her professional librarian career as a bilingual inquiries officer with the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety and serving as a youth services librarian at Hamilton Public Library. She became the manager of children’s services at Brantford Public Library in 2007, and the chief librarian and chief executive officer of Grimsby Public Library in 2010.
Since joining Hamilton Public Library as a director in 2013, she has been responsible for the library’s digital technology, youth services, collections, and program development.
“Lita brings to Burlington a strong background in arts and cultural leadership, customer service excellence, and innovation in libraries,” says Kenny. “We are excited by her aspirations for the public library in our community and delighted that she accepted our offer to lead Burlington Public Library.”
“Burlington Public Library’s reputation for excellence and engagement is broadly known,” says Lita Barrie, in-coming chief executive officer. “I am so thrilled to continue the Library’s commitment to innovation and to providing stellar library services and programs to serve this wonderful city.”
Ms Barrie holds a Master of Library & Information Studies from McGill University, a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Art History) from Concordia University, and certificates in leadership from McMaster University, University of Toronto, and University of Victoria.
 Lita Barrie at arts event in Hamilton She is active in the library profession as a frequent presenter at conferences and as a sessional lecturer at University of Toronto, Faculty of Information, where she also co-founded the Public Library Leaders Program offered through the iSchool Institute. She has also served in many senior volunteer roles with the Ontario Library Association.
Ms Barrie is a keen community volunteer and is currently vice chair of the Hamilton Wentworth District School Board’s Special Education Advisory Committee and president of the Hamilton Arts Council Board.
 By Staff
May 8th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington Student Theatre is celebrating 40 years of drama, music, dance and creativity. Located in Optimist Park the theatre is home to the longest-running youth theatre program in Burlington.
 The theatre’s show, Little Shop of Horrors, performs at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre on May 24 and 25 during Student Theatre Week, – May 21 to 27 – helps to promote the positive role that arts programs in Burlington have played in maintaining the health and wellness of our young citizens.
Burlington Student Theatre contributes to the life and vibrancy of the arts in Burlington.
Little Shop of Horrors gives students the opportunity to develop skills, find themselves as they mature, involve themselves in the community and demonstrate leadership skills.
The Show:
SENIOR MAINSTAGE 2018 – Senior Level May 24 & 25, 2018
LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS – Howard Ashman & Alan Menkin
From the company that brought you Joseph, Xanadu, Once on this Island, this scifi comic romance rock musical won’t disappoint! A nerdy flower shop assistant finds a chance at success and romance with the help of a plant that feeds on human flesh and blood! The music, composed by Alan Menkin – best known for writing songs for Disney’s Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin, is in the style of 1960’s rock & roll.
It premiered off Broadway in 1982 and ran for five years with 2209 performances. The 1986 film version, directed by Frank Oz, received 90% on Rotten Tomatoes. A Must See!!!
Ticket Prices (Includes Fees & Tax):
Regular $30.00 ($35.00 starting April 24, 2018)
Youth 16 & Under $25.00 ($30.00 starting April 24, 2018)
Group (10+) $15.00 (Please contact Box Office)
By Pepper Parr
May 7th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
We all know who Ron Foxcroft – the whistle guy.
 Ron Foxcroft with Queen Elizabeth II – she now has a Foxcroft whistle. The guy that got himself into Buckingham Palace and presented one of his whistles to Queen Elizabeth II and convinced her that it would get rid of the Canada Geese that ere fowling her lawns.
The guy is shameless – he took his wife Marie with him – she had to learn to curtsy – which she did very well.
She did a curtsy to convince me that she knew how to do one properly.
Once you’ve presented a whistle to the Queen not much further up the food chain you can go.
Don’t underestimate Foxcroft.
He managed to get one of his whistles into the White House where it was used at a White House event.
Here’s the word we got from Foxcroft – “Donald Trump has a Fox 40 Safety Whistle to start the White House Easter Egg Roll.
 The President now has his Foxcroft whistle. WE ARE SAFE now that DONALD has a Fox 40, Made in Canada.”
And Foxcroft has a letter to prove it.
He did it kind of sneaky. The whistle was sent from the American office of the world wide Foxcroft operations. Apparently Foxcroft didn’t want to upset the NAFTA negotiations.
Don’t think for a minute that Foxcroft won’t eventually get one of his whistles into the hands of the President of the United States of America.
The Queen has one – The Donald is next!.
 By Staff
May 4th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The Museums of Burlington is quite a bit more than the two locations they manage.
Their events program is popular and often full of surprises.
 The traditional Mother’s Day Champagne Tea takes place on May 12!
Guests will receive glass of champagne upon arrival and all moms will receive a flower and sample tea gift.
Once seated at your private table, you can look forward to a selection of premium custom tea blends.
Each table will receive a tray packed with savoury and sweet treats, made-from-scratch scones and homemade jam!
Tickets include free parking and a museum tour.
Select from one of three seating times….stop by the Ireland House Museum, call us at 905.332.9888 or reserve online.
By Staff
May 3rd, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Updated on May 4th, 2018
Art in Action – that opportunity people have to tour close to a dozen studios around the city each fall has announced that they are once again offering a graduating Burlington High School student a scholarship in 2018. This year’s scholarship is in memory of one of our long-standing artists that passed away this year.
Edward Robin Hoyer was a true artistic spirit that welcomed life with his arms wide open. He will be truly missed on this year’s tour.
The applying student must be graduating from a Burlington High School in the school year 2018, and is intending to pursue a future career in the Arts, studying at the post secondary level in an arts focused program. The jurors are looking for originality, creativity, concept and execution.
The scholarship has a minimum value of $1000.00 to be awarded to the most deserving student and is to be awarded at the school’s commencement ceremonies. The student is invited to participate in the gallery exhibit, the Burlington Studio Tour and will receive media attention.
 Sarah Tom Art in Action winner 2014  Emma Roberts, Art in Action -2016 winner In 2012, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Art in Action we initiated an annual scholarship to encourage young artists in Burlington pursuing a post secondary education in the fine arts. We were able to offer 2 scholarships of $1000.00 each to two Burlington students. From 2013 – 2017 we presented one Scholarship of $1 – 1,500.00 to a talented student.
The 2012 scholarship winner was both Olivia Hashka and Jessica Gneth; in 2013 was Michelle Nguyen was the scholarship winner and Annie Mason won in 2015
Art in Action is an organization that assists artists towards becoming entrepreneurs, by encouraging a social community for artists within Burlington. As well, Art in Action provides exposure for the artists within the Burlington community. Art in Action organizes and promotes a weekend Burlington Studio Tour on the first weekend of November, where juried participants showcase their work to the public in their own studio locations.
This self-guided tour is free for the public to come and enjoy. Other events include a gallery exhibit with work from all the artists in early fall. For more information check out our community sponsors and our artists at www.artinaction.ca
For more information about this scholarship contact your high school’s guidance counselor or contact, Darlene Throop, scholarship coordinator, for Art in Action at darlene.throop@gmail.com. All applications must be post marked by May 15th, 2018. All students, their Principals and Heads of Guidance will be notified by June 30th, 2018.
By Shannon Russell
May 2nd, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
On Thursday, April 26th the students of Mrs. Yott’s Food and Nutrient class volunteered at Wellington Square United Church to help prepare the weekly Friday Night Community Dinner hosted by the church.
There were a total of eleven excitable students who walked from Burlington Central High School to the Church to showcase their talents in the kitchen, crafts and care packages. The eleven students that were involved in this endeavour were Alexis Ray, Kerala Mathew, Se Heon Bae, Cameron Sagar, Elissa Radanovic, Shannon Russell, Sarah Mulay, Lily Blythe, Reagan Day, Nicole Ubando and Anisa Hussein.
 Burlington Central High School students prepare community dinner at Wellington Square United Church. The eleven students helped make a variety of culinary delights including different types of cookies and muffins. “We were basically feeding an army.” Said Elissa. It was told by one of the church representatives that there would be over 300 people coming to this helpful and weekly event.
While some students were cooking away in the kitchen others were more than happy to help with the crafts. “During the tour, when my friends and I found out that the church created dolls and teddy bears for children in the hospital, we couldn’t stay away; especially since the elders making them were so kind.” Explained Shannon. The students sat there working with the ladies for a good hour and didn’t want to leave.
The students also helped organize care packages which carried five juice boxes and ten snacks for children in need. “It takes a weight off the parents shoulders financially knowing that their child has food for school.” Said Hazel another regular volunteer at the church.
There was a lot of work packed into the six hours the students spent at the church but it was pleasurable at the same time. Everyone was so engaged with helping that the time seemed to slip by quickly.
Afterwards, the students were able to reflect on their excursion and the consensus was they would love to return to the warm and caring environment to replicate their experience.
The Burlington Central High School, Food and Nutrient class would like to express their gratitude to the representatives of Wellington Square Church for making the time spent there memorable.
 Shannon Russell is a very keen grade 10 student who also swims competitively at a national level. Her main interests include: swimming and hanging out with friends.
 By Staff
May 1st, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Perhaps it is the geography.
Maybe the people in the eastern part of the city are just once.
 Affordable housing? The geese have made a home and are waiting for the goslings to arrive. It will be quite a show when they are born. Whichever – there is now a pair of geese tending to the birth of some goslings outside the Fortinos off New Street.
An avid Gazette reader was in that part of town and sent us a note and a photograph of Mommy goose sitting on the nest while Daddy goose fends off any interlopers.
“They are almost at the front door of the Home Sense store
“A mama goose sitting on its nest and papa goose watching over and protecting her. Interesting watching him with keeping the seagulls away from the food that people left out for mama goose.
“I saw them a couple or so weeks ago on the top of the Fortinos, you could almost tell they were looking for a place to build a home.”
 The trees are gone – and so are the geese. The geese at St. Christopher’s United Church on Guelph Line were not as fortunate. They had the good fortune of living beside a small row of apples trees that provided them with plenty to eat.
When we eat – the waste has to get discharged somewhere and the good people at who owned the apartment next door agreed with the church that the poop could no longer get dropped on the church driveway – so the really nice apple trees were cut down and the geese found somewhere else to find their food.
 By Staff
May 1st, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
100IN1DAY – looks like a type – actually is it an event being mobilized by the Mayors Millenniums Advisory Committee.
 On Saturday, June 2nd, 2018, 100In1Day is coming to Burlington! The idea is to have 100 interventions take place in the city on June 2nd.
What is an intervention – it can be whatever you want it to be – the idea is to do something that will make the city a better place.
The Millennials are holding a number of meetings where people can toss around some ideas and xxx with other people.
A number of meetings have already taken place – we just got wind of this.
Those meeting dates and locations are:
Tue, May 8 6:00 PM
100in1Day Burlington Workshop #8
Centennial Pool, Burlington
Sun, May 13 10:00 AM
100in1Day Burlington Workshop #9
Brant Hills Community Centre, Burlington
You can participate in a series of community workshops designed to inspire new urban intervention leaders through active, inclusive, and engaging dialogue and activity. People of all ages, backgrounds and locations across the city are invited to attend workshops to develop their 100In1Day interventions – from idea to execution.
Imagine the possibilities for our city if hundreds of people united to participate in small initiatives to spark change. 100in1Day Burlington is part of a growing global movement that is changing how people interact with their cities.
 Interventions are simple, often low-cost community projects or actions that are free, open to anyone, and designed to create positive change, like pop-up parking space parties, plant swaps and seed giveaways, alleyway concerts, community art creation and neighbourhood potlucks. Interventions like these take place all on one day, in a series of city-wide 100in1Day celebrations that demonstrate the collective power of small actions.
By Staff
April 30th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
In the fall of 1992, six hockey wives formed BOWSER (Burlington Oldtimers’ Women Supplying Emergency Relief). Their mandate was to help the less fortunate residents of Burlington with a monthly collection of food and cash, all of which would be donated to the Burlington Food Bank. Each month during the hockey season the “BOWSER BABES” are at arenas collecting non-perishable food items and household necessities.
 From the left: Louise Addison, Robin Bailey, Barb Charron, Michele Wood and Carolyn Park Shown here are Louise Addison, Robin Bailey, Barb Charron, Michele Wood and Carolyn Park presenting the Burlington Food Bank with a cheque for $13,500 which includes the BOWSER cash contribution for the 2017-18 season. Including the Christmas dance donation, it brings the BOWSER season total to $17,075. Missing from the photo are Pat Broadbent and Michelle Koskinen
Through BOWSER, the BOHC (Burlington Oldtimers Hockey Club), members have contributed, 86,215 food and household items as well as $233,970 all donated to Burlington Food Bank for those in need. BOHC is recognized as the major contributor to the Burlington Food Bank.
Thanks go out to the BOHC members from the “BOWSER BABES” – Michele Wood, Barb Charron, Louise Addison, Carolyn Park, Pat Broadbent and Michelle Koskinen.
By Staff
April 27th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
On Friday afternoon, there was an Open House at the Freeman Station in Burlington. Local MPP Eleanor McMahon congratulated the members of the Friends of Freeman Station on receiving a $36,100 Capital grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation to install a permanent ramp to the door of the building.
“The Friends of Freeman Station is an incredible group of hard-working volunteers who are dedicated to restoring Freeman Station, a building that greatly contributes to Burlington’s heritage and culture,” said Burlington MPP Eleanor McMahon. “Our government is pleased to invest $36,100, over five months, to improve the station’s infrastructure, ensuring that the space is accessible for everyone in our community.”
 From the right: Brian Aasgaard, MPP Eleanor McMahon,Ron Danielsen and Ward 6 Councillor Blair Lancaster Aasgaard
In addition to the ramp, accessibility upgrades will be made at the primary entrance and modifications to existing washroom facilities. The Station when it is ready, will be used by a variety of community organizations for meetings; and education for students to learn about the history of early transportation and communication in Canada. And thanks to the grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, people of all abilities will be able to access the main level of the building.
“Friends of Freeman Station are thankful to the Ontario Trillium Foundation, and to MPP Eleanor McMahon for this grant, which will make the main level of the station wheelchair accessible, so that everyone can participate in the learning experience the station will provide. Its impact cannot be underestimated.” said Ron Danielsen, President of the Friends of Freeman.
The Friends of Freeman Station are an all volunteer non-profit charity comprised of members of the community committed to saving, restoring and repurposing the original 1906 Burlington Junction – Grand Trunk Railway Station – known locally as Freeman Station, to be an interpretive centre for the community centre.
An agency of the Government of Ontario, the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is one of Canada’s largest granting foundations. With a budget of over $136 million, OTF awards grants to some 1,000 projects every year to build healthy and vibrant Ontario communities.
By Staff
April 27th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
In a note on a web site she maintains ward 2 Councillor Marianne Meed Ward said:
“Burlington’s new official plan was adopted by council today by a 6-1 vote. Though council supported over two dozen motions I brought or co-sponsored to make the plan better, the plan as it stands represents over intensification: in the downtown, the GO stations and established neighbourhoods.
 Brant street looking north from city hall. “It will deliver a future city that erodes what makes Burlington unique and special, what we love about our city, and why we live, work, play here and welcome new residents who come every year, drawn by our great city to join us.
 Scheduled for across the street from city hall. “In the focus on quantity of people (which goes well beyond our growth requirements from the province), our quality of life is at stake.
“What’s next? The plan goes to the Region of Halton for approval. Amendments can still be made to the plan by this council – or the next – to scale it back.”
Meed Ward has said that she will be filing nomination papers as a candidate for Mayor of Burlington.
 By Staff
April 27th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Does the arrival of spring weather have your thoughts turning to your garden? Perhaps you’re thinking of a way to incorporate native plants and don’t know where to start?
There is a workshop at Royal Botanical Gardens on Saturday, May 12 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Designing Your Native Landscape workshop at Royal Botanical Gardens.
 Will your garden look like this after the workshop? You will be taught how to choose and maintain native plant gardens and what type is right for your property.
You will learn about how to work with the soil you have and how to incorporate raised garden beds into your design.
You will also have a chance to speak one-on-one with a garden expert about a plan for your property. The cost of the workshop is $40 (including HST) and includes a tour of a native garden at the Royal Botanical Gardens, a catered lunch, resources and giveaways.
The speakers include:
Erin Mallon, Stewardship Technician, Cootes to Escarpment EcoPark
Charlie Briggs, Staff Gardener, Royal Botanical Gardens
Tara Nolan, Author and Raised Garden Bed Expert
Crystal Bradford and Liam Kijewski, Native Garden Designers and owners of Wildlife Gardening
Sean James, Master Gardener and owner of Sean James Consulting and Design
To attend the Designing Your Native Landscape workshop, you are asked to pre-register. You can find the link to register at the event listing on the Events Calendar at www.conservationhalton.ca/events.
The Designing Your Native Landscape Workshop is on Saturday, May 12 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Classroom 5 in the RBG Centre, 680 Plains Road West in Burlington.
By Staff
April 24th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
She is coming home, just for a few days, but she will be on the stage at St. George Anglican Church where the Lowville Festival will put on its fourth event.
 Sarah Harmer Sarah Harmer, Burlington’s own singer-songwriter, with five albums to her credit, a couple of which have been nominated for multiple Juno Awards, and a new one in the offing.
Sarah, the home own girl who never gets invited to perform in the city will perform on Friday June 8th.
The Lowville Festival is raising the bar for its fourth annual season in north Burlington’s majestic Escarpment country. This year they are presenting a couple of stellar headline attractions, Sarah Harmer and the world renowned Wagnerian tenor Ben Heppner, as well as the premiere of a new theatrical workshop/presentation by Burlington director/story weaver June Cupido.
The Lowville Festival defines itself as “a festival of all the arts for the artist in all of us”. The ultimate aim is not only to feature all of the performing, visual and literary arts, but also to provide opportunities for attendees to participate in the creative process. To that end, local singers are again being invited to join the Lowville Festival Choir, which will perform in concert with Ben Heppner.
 St. George Anglican church For their fourth season, they are using two presentation locations on Lowville’s central and historic St. George’s Anglican Church just north of Derry Road, and the Lowville United Church just south of Britannia Road. Lowville is almost equidistant from downtown Milton and Downtown Burlington, and with its magnificent and extensive Lowville Park and location on the Niagara Escarpment, is fast becoming an easy-to-get-to oasis for both Burlingtonians and Miltonians.
 Ben Heppner
Ben Heppner, Canada’s leading dramatic tenor who has appeared with all of the world’s major opera houses including the Metropolitan Opera, Covent Garden and the Wiener Staatsoper. He is currently host of the CBC Radio Two’s Saturday Afternoon at the Opera. For this concert he will be joined by the Lowville festival Choir, which has been a highly lauded component of the Festival since its inception in 2015. This year we introduce the choir’s new director Janice Schuyler Ketchen
Truth and Illusion: Two forces present in every moment is a theatrical monologue presentation that examines how our lives can be guided by two separate forces: what lies in our hearts and souls (the truth) and … what we project to the outside world (the illusion).
This story gathering and weaving process will take you on a thought–provoking journey as we explore the stories we tell each other and how they connect us. The members of the creative team come from our surrounding communities, all with diverse backgrounds, yet each with a story that speaks to society as a whole. This will be presented on Sunday evening June 10th at Lowville United Church.
The Lowville Festival is the vision of its two Founding Co-Artistic Directors: Lorretta Bailey, a Lowville resident, has performed in musical theatre productions across Canada, including the original Toronto production of Les Miserables; and Robert Missen, proprietor of the Bobolink Agency.
LOWVILLE FESTIVAL 2018
A FESTIVAL OF ALL THE ARTS FOR THE ARTIST IN ALL OF US
JUNE 8-10, 2018
Sarah Harmer in Concert
Friday June 8th, 2019
7:30 pm
St. George’s Hall
7051 Guelph Line (north of Derry Road)
Tickets $50 advance/ $60 from June 1st
Ben Heppner in Concert
with the Lowville Festival Choir
Saturday June 9th, 2018
7:30 pm
St. George’s Hall
7051 Guelph Line (north of Derry Road)
Tickets $50 in advance/$60 from June 1st.
Truth and Illusion: Two Forces present in every moment.
Sunday June 10th, 2018
7:00 pm
Lowville United Church
5800 Guelph Line (at Britannia Road)
Tickets $30 in advance/$35 from June 1st.
Tickets will go on sale May 1st on the Festival Website
www.lowvillefestival.com
 By Pepper Parr
April 22nd, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
It is going to be a day when we can actually appreciate the day we were given.
We have been into spring for weeks – how any depends on which unit of measure you use to determine when spring starts and stops.
For those of us in Burlington spring has been toying with us – here for a bit then gone for a bit.
Earth Day has the sun shining and the promise of temperatures that will let one get to just a T-shirt. A day to do a check in on what we have done to this earth.
 The Earth Day Network organizers have chosen to focus on plastic – it is threatening our planet’s survival, from poisoning and injuring marine life to disrupting human hormones, from littering our beaches and landscapes to clogging our streams and landfills.
This year, spring takes place between March 20 and June 21, if you use the astronomical method.
If you follow the meteorological calendar it runs from March 1 to May 31.
 A sea of plastic – everything you see in this picture is plastic floating on the water.
By Staff
April 19th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
 Transformation of the Joseph Brant Museum site. While back hoes and cement truck work across the property transforming what was a single structure that we knew as the Joseph Brant Museum a company called Kubik is thinking through what there will be in the way of exhibits and interpretive features that will be installed in the large xxx foot space that will be underground.
 A view of the Fort Henry museum that Kubik did some work on. Kubik has been awarded the contract to provide the interpretive design, fabrication and installation at Joseph Brant Museum. The company has done work on the Fort York Visitor Centre, Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum, Wild Weather (Science North), Canadian Museum for Human Rights and Canadian Museum of Nature – Canada Goose Arctic Gallery.
 An illustration of some of the dresses in the collection at the Brant Museum. Kubik has presented a concept design that will feature central, charismatic, and dramatic exhibit hubs, timeline exhibits that will connect to central displays, over-sized interactives and immersive displays. The museum staff thinks they “ may even have a “fashion runway” in the costume gallery.
We can’t wait for that feature.
By Staff
April 17th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The City of Burlington’s annual community tree planting event has been tied to the annual Burlington Green Clean Up Green Up event that takes place on Saturday April 21st.
The tree planting will take place at Tuck Park, 3405 Spruce Avenue on Saturday, April 21, from 1 to 4 p.m.
Residents are invited to be a part of adding to the urban forest by planting a total of 500 saplings.
 The Green Up part of the 2017 program. Tuck Park this year. Each event will feature:
• Planting 500 saplings
• Question and answer with city arborists
• Stewardship and education about our urban forests
Pre-registration is not required but attendees are asked to register in advance by going to Burlington Green’s website, or upon arrival at the event. Here are some details:
• Saplings are in one-gallon pots that can be easily carried to planting spots.
• No experience is needed. City arborists and planting experts will show attendees what to do.
• Participants are advised to use alternative transportation such as Burlington Transit, ride sharing, cycling or other forms of active participation as parking will be very limited.
What to wear/bring:
• Check the weather and dress for the conditions. We will be outside and will plant rain or shine.
• Wear sturdy footwear – no sandals or flip-flops, please.
• Bring your own work/gardening gloves.
• Bring your own snacks and beverages and plenty of water, especially if it’s hot.
• Bring your own shovel, if possible.
• Consider going green to the planting; walk, bike, carpool or use public transit.
• Bring your volunteer hour form if you’re a high school student looking for volunteer hours.
Burlington is one of Canada’s best and most livable cities, a place where people, nature and business thrive but it does not have a private tree bylaw.
For details on the CleanUp part of the day go to: www.burlingtongreen.org/
BurlingtonGreen has announced that there will not be an EcoFair this year nor will there be a BBQ
 By Staff
April 16th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
April 26th, 270 Grade 6-8 students from the Halton District School Board will gather to perform and celebrate International Dance Day.
It is the 13th annual celebration and will be held at the New Street Education Centre (3250 New Street, Burlington), from 9 a.m.-2:15 p.m.
 Different silhouettes of various dance poses Students will use excerpts of spoken word poetry as source material and will reimagine the messages as movement to a shared piece of music.
The day will be divided into two sections. In the morning, students will participate in workshops led by professional dancers from across southern Ontario. Workshops include bhangra/bollywood, Caribbean jazz, contemporary, flamenco, hip-hop, musical theatre, tap and urban.
 Hip hop dance In the afternoon, Halton District School Board teachers will lead students in creative movement workshops based on the curriculum expectations and the creative process.
This year’s creative workshop theme is ‘resilience’. The students will meet at the end of the day to showcase their creations in an ensemble presentation.
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