 By Pepper Parr
September 3, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Buddy Gerl, chief ribber at Camp 31, said that Ribfests are driven by weather – that being true Saturday turned out to be an iffy day . When it is too cold – people don’t come out. If it is too hot – they don’t come out.
But when the weather is just right – they come out in droves.
 Chowing down and listening to the music – with the sun shining. The cranes in the background speak of a changing skyline With little luck Gerl and his Camp 31 operation will have a good season and the Rotarians will rack up another solid fund raising event.
The crowds were soft when we toured the site in the middle of Friday afternoon – but they got better. Saturday was a disappointment – the rest of the weekend looks as if the weather Gods are with the Rotarians again.
 VIP tent is open to the public for parts of Sunday and Monday. There are a number of pluses this year. There is a VIP tent that is available to the public on parts of the weekend – Sunday and Monday for the most part.
 Fetching the beer. The beer prices are reasonable and you can use both cash and plastic and there is an ATM on site where you can draw some cash.
The usual set of Ribbers are on site – the lineups seem to dictate where the prize sauces are located.
The Rotarians took a different approach to their fund raising this year when they partnered with the Carpenter Hospice – that organization is getting close to finalizing their plans to a significant addition to the facilities.
 Teen Tour Band – collecting for Carpenter Hospice Members of the Burlington Teen Tour Band were on hand at some of the entry point with collection tins.
We noticed a bit of a tightening in security at the entry points to Spencer Smith Park. A security guard asked to look inside the bag I was carrying – it was a pretty cursory look. It is a changing world.
 South side of Spencer Smith with all the ribbers open for business.  North side of Spencer Smith Park – crowds were sparse – but it was decent for a Friday mid-day. The Ribfest first came to Burlington in 1996 – since that time the Lakeshore Rotarians have raised more than $3 million which they have given back to the community in the form of scholarships and awards.
For the past two years those academic scholarships have amount to $3500 for each person given a scholarship.
 By Staff
August 31st, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Get used to the idea that the parking lot off Elizabeth Street isn’t going to be available to you on Tuesday of next week and won’t open up again until sometime in the winter.
 Parking lot between John and Elizabeth Street will be closed while a pathway is built at the north end of the lot. The City is building a new multi-use pathway in downtown Burlington core and the phase that will complete the path between John and Elizabeth begins on Tuesday.
Running east/west, the new connection will cut across the heart of downtown Burlington and accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists safely, providing access to shops, restaurants and services.
 Lot 4 will be closed starting Tuesday. Work on putting in the pathway at the north side of lot 5 will follow. The construction project is to build the second phase (between Elizabeth Street and John Street) and the third phase (between John Street and Brant Street) of the new pathway.
Parking lot 5, located on Brant Street will have quite a bit of work done and will not be open at all until the work is completed.
Lot 4 on Elizabeth Street will have work done on the northern portion – the rest of that lot will be open.
Works starts on Tuesday the 5th and is expected to be completed by winter time.
Alternate parking areas available during the closure are located at the waterfront parking garage at 414 Locust St. and parking lot 3 located on John Street.
 Parking options while lot 4 is closed.  Now the Queen’s Head minus the balconies and Elgin Street minus the street car. Construction Details
Construction of phases 2 and 3 will include:
• resurfacing and widening of the multi-use pathway
• resurfacing of the parking areas
• replacement of the bus shelters on both sides of John St.
• new urban trees and plantings
• new benches, lighting, and a bike shelter
• a 300m2 public space beside Brant Street that will provide additional areas for seating, entertainment and the installment of public art.
Few people know that there is a pipeline beneath the pathway to be built that carries jet fuel to Hamilton. The parking lot was once going to be the location for part of McMaster University that was being built in Burlington. The South Service Road was the eventual location choice.
Phase 1 of the new multi-use pathway between Pearl Street and Elizabeth Street was completed earlier this summer.
 By Staff
August 31st, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Things to see and do.
If you overdo it a little at the Ribfest and need to walk some of it off – wander along to the Art Gallery and slip into the Dan Lawrie Family Courtyard and have a look at the collection of chimes that have been set up.
 Part of the collection of chimes that decorate the Dan Lawrie Family Courtyard. Visitors are invited to give the chimes a gentle touch.
 Some of the chimes are nestled into the plants and might be mistaken by some to be a plant. Just outside the entrance to the Courtyard is a small but impactful exhibit focusing on the Terry Fox epic 143 day, 5,373 kilometer journey from St. John’s, Newfoundland, to Thunder Bay, Ontario.
 The exhibit includes a replica of the brace and prosthetic Terry wore as he loped across the country with what was part walk and part skip.
The exhibit explores Canadians’ deep and abiding affection for Terry and examines his unique place in our collective memory. Developed in partnership with the AGB and Terry Fox’s family, the exhibition shows part of the impact Terry Fox has had and continues to have on modern Canadian life.
For younger people who ask: “Who was Terry Fox?” The exhibition is the answer. Closes September 10th, 2017
 By Pepper Parr
August 30th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
 Is it art? Who cares? When it comes to public art – it is all really in the eye of the beholder. People like what they like and without any introduction to art in school – you get some pretty weird stuff.
Tucked in at the south end of the Art Gallery of Burlington is a donut shop with the name – Sunshine.
The Burlington Cream is not to be missed – but you have to be there early. At $4 bucks apiece that may seem a little extreme – d-e-l-i-c-i-o-u-s!
While doing a photo feature on the current exhibit at the AGB we noticed Sunshine’s contribution to public art.
 Tucked in at the south end of the Art Gallery parking lot. Get there early they do sell out. No such things as a day old donut. You know the product is as good as it gets when you notice fire trucks on the way back to the station stopping in for a bite to eat.
 No signs like this on Brant Street When Sunshine first opened the hours were open until the production for the day had been sold.
They did a brisk business – the lemon cream was to die for.
First story on the Sunshine donut shop.
 By Pepper Parr
August 29th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Who decides what a city is going to look like?
Is it the planners? They set the rules the builders will be required to follow.
Is it the developers who look for the best return they can get on the investment they make and the risk they take?
Or is it the architects who put ideas in front of the developers?
 Ward 3 Councillor John Taylor is one of the people who will vote on future project – at least for the balance of this term. He took part in a community forum on waterfront plans. Is it the public and the comments they make a community meetings?
The private homes that will get built on tree lined streets and the condominium towers that now define Lakeshore and are proposed for parts of Brant Street are signs of what we might look like.
The significant number of what can only be called mansions going up now on the eastern side of Lakeshore Road are another part of that definition.
We know what we have – and we know something about what is being proposed.
Are there any striking looking buildings going up? Are there any designs that are taking the city in a different direction?
 What is going to be permitted along Lakeshore Road got taken in a different direction when this lot severance was approved and an additional home squeezed in. Are there any mistakes being made?
Three structures deserve a closer look: The Saxony on Locust and Elgin that is not much more than a hole in the ground, the Paradigm that is going up on Fairview where it is very clear what the city is going to have when that project is completed and the Link2 that is being built on Dundas are worth a closer look.
 The Saxony is a development that could have been five storey’s high – they opted for just four. The project was sold out before the opened the sales office. The Saxony is going to represent home for the moneyed set that want comfort and stature – they will get both in a building that is respectable and solid – once they get a handle on the problems they have had with water they didn’t realize was there when they started digging.
There is nothing bold or exciting about the building. It is the 21st century edition of the solid homes that were built along Burlington Street and that collection of homes on the eastern side of Brant and south of Caroline.
 It is a large project far from the downtown core in one of the fastest going parts of the city – with a view over Bronte Creek on the east side. While the Link2 is not a building that many will see – located as it is on Dundas and Sutton – yards away from the border with Oakville. The project has a couple of things going for it. The location especially for those on the eastern side where the view will be over Bronte Creek, and the design which is daring and certainly different.
It won’t appeal too many but for those who like to live in a building that makes a statement – this is one of the places to be. Too early in the construction stage to fully appreciate what the Link2 is going to look like – all we have to go on are the architectural renderings.
The bright picture is seen in the Paradigm being put up by the Molinaro Group. It has a daring look to it – there is actually a design – not something that is all that evident in the buildings they put up along Lakeshore a couple of decades ago.
 The Molinaro Paradigm project is changing the skyline in mid-city. The first of the fivee towers has topped off The cladding on the building makes a strong statement and has to add to what the city is going to look like twenty years from now when all the Grow Bold plans take hold.
 By Staff
August 29th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
They have been operating as a cultural organization for more than 20 years.
They hold an
 Annual Spring Brunch
An Annual Awards and Scholarship Gala
Black History Month Celebration (February)
Joint Caribbean Committee Caribbean New Year’s Eve
And the Annual Caribbean Nite
which takes place Saturday September 9th at the Holiday Inn.
By Staff
August 28, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The next provincial election gets more real every day.
Nothing on who the NDP candidate is going to be.
The McMahon Liberals are doing a repeat of the operational organization that Karina Gould did that propelled her into office.
McMahon proved to be solid campaigner and a good debater during the least provincial election when she took a riding that the Conservatives had held for more than 70 years.
Add that organizational heft to a superb campaigner and there is something formidable moving through the streets of the city.
 Jane at the door step – where is the voter? Jane McKenna has been doing her own door to door work.
McKenna hasn’t said much publicly – other than a few pictures from her Facebook page there is little to go on.
McKenna has always been close to Opposition leader Patrick Brown – it will be interesting to see if she convinces Brown to campaign on her behalf in Burlington.
 One wag commented on the footwear – can’t walk many miles in those shoes. Maybe it was just a photo op? Mike Wallace was at one point heading up the McKenna campaign – we aren’t seeing him in any of the photographs.
McMahon is running on what the Liberal government has done – she is a member of cabinet so she is part of the decisions that are made. As a member of Treasury Board she oversees where and how the dollars are spent.
 Lunch is on the MPP – McMahon wants you to show up and enjoy yourself. McMahon can bring in Premier Kathleen Wynne if she feels she needs the clout. She will be holding her annual end of summer BBQ at LaSalle Park on Sunday September 10th.
McKenna will want to focus on what the provincial government has not done.
Time for you the voter to begin thinking about what you like and are happy with and what you think needs to be changed.
 By Pepper Parr
August 28th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
There is something about the planting of a tree – no matter what your age the tree you plant is likely to be on this earth longer than you.
Experiences like this are important to young people who are just beginning to fully appreciate the role trees play in the life we live.
The climate change we are experiencing didn’t just happen – our behaviour is what brought it about and it is our behaviour that is going to heal the environment – if we are lucky.
 A lot of bending when trees are planted. Students will be back in school on Tuesday – think about making Saturday of next week the day you get them outdoors and planting a tree. They will never forget the experience and many will return to that spot to look at the tree they planted and perhaps show off their work to their children.
Conservation Halton is looking for 100 community volunteers to help plant 500 native trees and shrubs on Saturday, September 9. The Fall Trees for Watershed Health Community Tree Planting is taking place at Courtcliffe Park, 159 Carlisle Road in the village of Carlisle.
 Registration and check-in will begin at 9 a.m., with planting scheduled to start shortly after 9:30 a.m. A barbeque lunch will be available at the end of the planting. Volunteers are reminded to dress according to the weather, wear waterproof boots and bring a shovel. The event will happen rain or shine, unless conditions are deemed to be unsafe for participants and staff.
We welcome all individuals, families, and small groups to participate. No prior planting experience is required. Space is limited and pre-registration is mandatory, visit www.conservationhalton.ca/trees-for-watershed-health for more details and to find registration information.
By Staff
August 27th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
It must have been quite a party.
 Cleaning crew failed to show up? With no one around to clean up and a case of beer that was too warm to drink when it was found.
Who used the space?
Who forgot to clean up?
 Whoever used the site made good use of all the space.  Quite a bit of beer was left for anyone passing by. No word on what our photographer might have done. Parks and Recreation will be making phone calls Monday morning about this one.
The space was being used legally wasn’t it?
Paletta Mansion is a city owned property that has always been a financial drag on the city. There was the potential for a long term lease with a Hamilton restaurateur but that fell though when details on upgrades to the kitchen couldn’t be agreed upon.
Geraldo’s, in LaSalle Park is another city property that does exceptionally well for the city – as does the Discovery Centre that is now managed by Spencers on the Waterfront.
The Paletta operation hasn’t been given the care and attention it needs. The rooms are lovely and are used for receptions and conferences from time to time. A major high-end auto show takes place on the grounds each year.
 By Staff
August 27, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
If you are putting together your schedule for the week don’t forget RibFest –
Friday September 1st through to Sunday September 3rd, 2017 – 11AM – 11PM
Monday September 4th – 11AM – 7PM
Sponsored by the Lakeshore Rotary club – a sixty strong membership that makes the event happen every year. This time they have made some changes to the model – not the menu.
 Burlington’s Ribfest – If you looked around there was still some sitting room. The weather was close to perfect and the music was good – great way to bring a summer to a close. The event is the major fund raising initiative for the Lakeshore Rotary. In 2014 – the year of the flood – the Rotary used the occasion to raise funds for those families that had been wiped out by the flood. It was successful enough for the Association to look for new ways to serve the community.
This year the focus is on the Carpenter Hospice which is in the process of close to doubling the size of the facility.
 VIP tent – open to the public Sunday afternoon and evening. A VIP tent has been set up, courtesy of Carriage Gate Homes, that will be open to the public Sunday afternoon and evening. Your ticket, available on line, gets you a spot at the front of the line to buy your selection of ribs and then saunter over to the VIP tent and enjoy the chow where the beverage selection is a little more varied – includes some specialty cocktails.
This is a Sunday only occasion – the tent is open to the public. It is a space that is sheltered, has a great site line to the stage and a bar that has an upscale selection of beverages. And, an upscale biffy.
More details on the ticket offering for this can be found HERE.
The event will serve up the same ribs people in Burlington have been enjoying since 1996 when there were less than ten ribbers offering a food that was new to many.
While it rained most of the one day event in 1996 – it was successful enough financially for the Rotary to make a long term commitment.
That commitment has resulted in the raising of more than $3 million – nothing shabby about that number.
Related news story.
By Pepper Parr
August 25th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
They are changing the model – not the menu. And it isn’t a big change but significant nevertheless.
The Rotary decided that since they donate all profits to charities anyway, why not partner up front with meaningful, significant Burlington charities.
Carpenter Hospice holds a special place in the hearts of Rotarians and for most Burlingtonians. So, The Rotary Club of Burlington Lakeshore chose Carpenter Hospice as it’s organization of choice for this year’s VIP event.
The Rotary Clubs in Burlington were the force behind the original capital campaign to build Carpenter Hospice. Fundraising for the hospice began in 1999 when the four Rotary Clubs of Burlington committed a pledge of $250,000 toward the development of the Hospice, kicking off the Rotary Community Hospice Project.
The legal name of the Hospice remains the Burlington Rotary Community Hospice. Local philanthropist, Len Carpenter, donated $500,000 to the project, earning him the right to choose the name for the hospice which continues to operate as “Carpenter Hospice”.
The Hospice is launching their “Make Room” campaign coinciding with Ribfest. This also brings some more awareness to the good works of the Hospice.
Putting on the biggest chow down in the area and raising big bucks that get plowed back into the community is what the Lakeshore branch of the Rotary operations in Burlington has always been about.
Sixty + strong the Burlington Lakeshore Rotary brought the Ribfest to the city in 1996 – while it was a risk at the time it proved to be the smartest thing they have ever done.
 John Thorpe John Thorpe and Bob Peeling were assigned with the task of creating a new fundraising event for the organization in the mid-sixties.
Thorpe, who was heavily involved in the cycling community, had heard of a race in Ohio called the Ribfest Race, where the finish line of the cycling event had a big BBQ party, the Columbus Jazz and Rib Fest.
 Bob Peeling Bob and John visited the race in 1995 and thought it’d make a great fundraiser for their Club, it was a unique concept at the time.
The Rotary Club of Burlington Lakeshore launched the event at Spencer Smith Park over a weekend in mid-September to tie into an Art Gallery of Burlington event. It moved to Labour Day weekend in its second year, becoming a four day event, and has since become known as the end of summer celebration for the people of Burlington and surrounding areas.
Canada’s Largest Ribfest was a success even in its first year. Despite raining almost the entire weekend, there was a steady line up of people waiting for their authentic southern barbeque experience. There were only six “ribbers”, compared to the 19 “ribbers” now, four of which came up from the southern States where barbequing events were very common. Two of those “ribbers” have been participating ever since.
 Rib fests were a southern American states cultural event. The Lakeshore Rotary imported the idea into Burlington – and it worked. There was a small stage with blues and country performers at that first event; 22 years later there is a full schedule of entertainment. The Rotary Club set a three year fundraising goal and decided that if they could not reach the goal they would dis-continue the event. Despite only raising $800 in the first year, the Club was ahead of their goal to break even. By the second year, the three year fundraising goal had been met.
 Thorpe and Peeling – a moment to celebrate Twenty two years later Canada’s Largest Ribfest has raised $3 million dollars and is still a giant barbeque party.
Rotarians understand what change is all about – the membership tends to come from the business community where you change if you want to stay alive.
The VIP tent is located close to the Lake and gives a great sight line to the WORD stage.
The focus for Linda Davies is that Saturday event – where the objective is to raise funds for the Carpenter Hospice. She would like to see a couple of more tables filled.
She had a live one – a company she was pretty sure she could sell a table to – she’s done it before. But there was a problem – the Saturday was the birthday of the wife – who didn’t fancy spending the special day at Ribfest no matter how nice the view. The offer of a big birthday cake didn’t do it.
Ticket price is $150/person or Reserve a Table of 10 for $1,500 Davies wants you to Kick back and relax – enjoy the experience Canada’s Largest Ribfest in the comfort of the Exclusive Carriage Gate VIP Lounge.
In light of The Rotary Club of Burlington Lakeshore crucial role in the birth of the Hospice, this is a fitting “full circle” connection as they launch their “Make Room” campaign.
 Carpenter hospice – The 14-year-old care facility, for people in the last stages of their life because of a terminal or chronic illness, is getting a new residential wing as well as renovating the existing structure.
Carpenter Hospice is a 10-bedroom facility that offers residential-based palliative care in a home-like setting, and also community-based programs for people dealing with grief or a life-limiting illness.
The $3.7-million project, dubbed Making Room, will be done in two phases.
The first will involve the building of an addition to house the current capacity of 10 residents.
The new room’s amenities will include enhanced access to the outdoors through larger doors, balconies for each room and private space for families.
 Rained most of the weekend in 1996 when the first Ribfest was held. The evening (Saturday, September 2nd) is a special “all you can eat” catered Rib Dinner with a selection of award winning Ribs from 3 “best rib” winners. An upscale fancy bar with some signature drinks is provided. One of the real perks for those who have attended Ribfest before are the dedicated VIP executive washrooms. That alone is worth the price of a ticket. A $90 charitable receipt available.
Event proceeds are split between Rotary Club of Burlington Lakeshore & Carpenter Hospice, You can get tickets on line or touch base with Davies at linda@daviescondos.ca
By Staff
August 23rd, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Might be time to have a bylaw enforcement officer patrolling the trail through the Beachway.
Seniors are complaining about the speed at which cyclists roar along the trail.
 For the vast majority it is a very pleasant walking trail. It is a focal point for the annual Terry Fox run. Many regular trail walkers…are wondering if bikes will still be allowed on the Beachway trail once the road bike lanes are complete – road work is being done now.
 There are bike lanes in place on the newly paved and rebuilt Lakeshore Road that is now the entrance to the Joseph Brant Hospital. A local resident advised the |Gazette that comments from seniors this morning was that they have the fear of death every time they take their walk. The cyclists seem to feel they own the trail.
One gentleman said he has been yelled at to get himself and his dog off the trail.
Another senior said: “I know!!!! I have almost been run over many times!!! Its scary!!!”
What are the rules for the trail?
With bike lanes going in – should bikes be banned from the trail? What do parents out with a youngster just learning to use a bike – do they want their child on the road with transit buses and trucks passing by?
The man to get your concern in front of is the ward Councillor – Rick Craven. You can email him at: rick.craven@burlington.ca
 By Staff
August 23, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
In the Spring the objective is to lose the weight so we can fit into the bathing suit.
Now we are told it is time to get moving and adjust eating habits to get over the end-of-summer blahs during which we appear to have all on on some weight.
Fitness experts have tips to build up a workout routine and adjust eating habits NOW to reset your system for fall.
With the dog days of summer slowly passing by and the reality of September’s routine looming – ideas for getting that refreshed feeling and being full of energy stare us in the face.
Many Canadians find themselves overtired, overfed, and under motivated. A summer spent on patios and at barbeques, staying up late, sleeping in and lounging on the dock tends to catch up with us.
 Looks easy – takes practice. Time for a fall fitness routine! Maureen ‘Mo’ Hagan, vice president of program innovation with GoodLife Fitness, says exercise and healthier habits go a long way to help reset the body’s circadian rhythms after a season of indulgence. And with only a couple of weeks of summer left, this is a perfect chance to set yourself up for success. She has some key considerations to get back into the fall routine more smoothly.
Establish regular sleep patterns: By the end of August, we’re getting up later, staying up later and the thought of waking up early for work and school is not all that welcoming. Don’t wait for the first day back to reset your clock, she advises. Start going to bed earlier and waking up earlier over the remaining days and you’ll find it easier to rise and shine.
Focus on nutrition: It’s OK to enjoy the last of the hamburgers and hotdogs, but start building in some lean proteins, complex carbs and more fruit and veggies to boost your mood, immunity, and energy. Take your remaining summer days to find and try some healthy new recipes, plan nutritious lunch options and even freeze dishes for use when the fall routine is in full swing.
Find time to exercise: Try to build in a workout at the same time each day to reset your internal clock and start building back your energy. It’s also a chance to enjoy the outdoors while it’s still warm and the days remain longer.
Hagan suggests setting realistic goals and then pushing yourself a bit further every few days. Vary your routine with cardio like biking or jogging, strength training for major muscle groups and stretching to build flexibility.
Remember to relax: With parties, camping trips, family reunions and the kids home from school, summer can be hectic. It’s important to find time to be alone and enjoy some peace. Plan a hike, do some yoga on the beach, or just sit on the deck with a book. Quiet time can help you reduce stress and reconnect with your body and mind.
 By Pepper Parr
August 22, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
After publishing this piece we got a note advising us that “we are nearing capacity… word of mouth effect is fierce with this run.”
This is the time of year to get out and enjoy the weather – and if you have room in your life for some classical theatre – check out Trevor Copp’s Tottering Biped production of the Merchant of Venice at the RBG Rock Garden.
A fine cast with some superb performances.
 Michael Hannigan, on the right, as Antonio Michael Hannigan has trod the boards of many of stages in the province. He is part of the opening scene in the Merchant where he gives the audience one of the most welcoming smiles you are likely to see.
Theatre is a sheer love choice and guilty pleasure for Hannigan; he has served as an Associate Artistic Director for both the Tivoli and Citadel theatres, helming several productions for each; as well as for The Players Guild, DLT, Theatre Burlington, Shooting Star Productions, and others in the GTHA.
 Michael Hannigan preparing to give that “pound of flesh” As impressive as his past performances have been his Antonio in the Merchant just has to be seen to fully appreciate what one man on a stage can do with a smile and a couple of words.
Chris Reid, a school teacher when he is not on stage, plays Shylock, needs a close listen to fully understand how he views the money he has loaned.
Alma Sarai who plays Portia beautifully – her coyness in determining just who her husband is going to be will delight you – almost as much as Claudio Spadafora’s performance where she introduces the various courtesans.
 Jamie Kasiama and Alma Sarai Sarai could have been a little stronger as the lawyer who interprets the law that applies to the Shylock loan. The phrase “a pound of flesh” that has become part of our everyday language, turns out to be exactly that – and nothing more which saves Antonio some pain and ends of requiring Shylock to become a Christian – such is the beauty of what William Shakespeare has given us.
It is a cast of nine that is well worth watching. The choreography is as good as it gets – better than some of the stage movements at Stratford and Shaw.
 Trevor Copp during a rehearsal. Trevor Copp’s life as a dancer comes through again and again as he directs the movement of his cast on a stage where a tree serves as a backdrop that has different coloured lights splashed on the thick branches and change the mood of the play in an instant.
 Trees become part of the backdrop for outdoor theatre. Performed on a stage set out on the grass where the fire flies fit in rather nicely. The sound of a freight train in the background doesn’t detract from the antics of the of the courtiers seeking the hand of Portia.
Zach Parson plays Bassanio and did some of the composing.
Jesse Horvath plays three role: Lancelot, Tubal and Salerio as well as working as director of Development.
Jamie (Milay) Kasiama plays Nerissa opposite Alma Sarai where she is superb in her attempts to direct Portia and her choice of a husband.
Copp wanted the cast members to be paid for the work they do – each gets a stipend of $100 for each day. Some support from the federal government summer employment program has helped but private sponsorship is always going to be needed.
Ticket prices are very affordable. Arrive early – seats are on a first come first served basis.
Play dates are Monday to Friday @7 pm. Plenty of parking across the road
Last performance is September 2nd.
 The cast: In no particular order: Chris Reid/Shylock; Michael Hannigan/Antonio, Alma Sarai/Portia, Shawn Coelho-DeSouza/Prince of Morocco and Lorenzo, Claudia Spadafora/Jessica, Isabel Starks/Ensemble, Jamie Kasiama/Nerissa, Zach Parsons/Bassanio and Jesse Horvath/Launcelot Treat yourself to a fun performance and some impressive choreography and Hannigan’s smile.
 By Staff
August 14th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
For Leslie Gray it was a little like herding cats – some twenty of them.
The kids rehearsing Annie Jr at the Drury Lane Theatre were learning the positions they were expected to be in on the stage. Like any director Gray would make a change – which proved to be a little challenging for some of the chorus line.
 Leslie Gray directing 20+ summer students who will be part of the Annie Jr production at the Drury Lane Theatre this weekend. “Down stage – now upstage and then move sideways and keep your legs up. Remember your positions” – they were getting.
This was a summer boot camp for kids who would perform in a real theatre at the end of it all.
It was put on by KooGle Theatre, the husband and wife team of Leslie and Christopher Gray who have in the past mounted some very entertaining performances at the Performing Arts Centre. It is not easy to make light summer fare work in Burlington. It is a market that has to be developed.
 Poised! This summer Koogle decided to do Annie Jr, an abridged version of Annie the popular Broadway production geared down to a summer production that was open to anyone. There will be some 40 young people on the stage at one time or another.
 Waiting to be discovered. The production was coming together for its three performance run – Matinee and evening on Saturday the 19th and a Matinee on the Sunday. There are about 50 tickets left – both Saturday performances are sold out.
That isn’t something that happens very often with community theatre.
The KooGle team of Leslie and Christopher Gray were familiar with the format they chose to use this year – a boot camp that had the participants taking part in intensive workouts for a number of weeks.
During the workouts Leslie and her script assistant Melanie Arsenault and co-director Carla Pantalone had a pretty good idea of what they had in the way of talent and built their show around what they had.
The talent levels did vary – and some of the kids were close to shameless as they mugged for the camera.
There were far more boys than girls – all were wonderfully polite and there was basically no attitude from any of the performers.
 Are they all in the right place on the stage? There will be those in the “chorus line” that will lose their place on the stage – memorable moments. The full production will be fun for the kids and for the parents and the grandparents that buy tickets.
At $10 a pop it is real value.
By Staff
August 14, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
As obvious as this might sound it is the people in a community that are the building blocks that growth, change and acceptance are built upon.
Building relations with people of different faiths and beliefs is the goal of Burlington’s first inter-faith multicultural festival to be held Saturday, August 19 at Central Park Bandshell from noon to 4 p.m.
Through foods from different cultures, dance, games, singing and entertainment, the festival will offer Burlington and area residents the opportunity to meet people who practice different faiths while learning their customs and beliefs.
 Halton Mosque “Among faith leaders in our community this dialogue is already there. This festival is being held to widen this discussion to the broader community,” said Abdullah Hatia, Imam for the Halton Mosque.
Rev. Stuart Pike, Rector at St. Luke’s Anglican Church, agrees, calling the festival a “breaking-the-ice celebration.”
There will be no preaching at this informal, fun-filled event which will run from noon to 4 p.m. on New Street at Drury Lane. In the event of rain, the festival will move inside Central Arena.
A broad cross section of faiths as well as community groups will be represented.
The One Burlington Festival builds on the candlelight vigil organized by Rory Nisan last February at Burlington’s City Hall the day after the Quebec City Mosque shooting to mourn the victims and demonstrate solidarity in Burlington and Halton. “Multiculturalism, inclusion and interfaith understanding cannot be taken for granted. We have to nurture them as one community,” said Nisan.
 Wellington Square United Church “The key concept (of the inter-faith festival) is that all faiths are responsible for the dignity of the other,” added Pike. Hatia added that its central message is to celebrate our differences. “Isn’t it cool that we live in Canada and we’ve got this rich diversity to celebrate in culture and the arts.”
Hatia has personally experienced the richness of this diversity through his friendship with Rev. Dr. Orville James, Minister of Wellington Square United Church.
They first met a few years ago after Hatia spoke at the YMCA’s Peace Medal Breakfast. Their friendship blossomed as they worked to resettle Syrian refugees into Burlington. Since then, each has come to personally know other members of their individual faiths.
 St Luke’s Anglican church “It’s a beautiful thing,” Hatia said. “Sometimes, over coffee, we have deep discussions, with respect and the goal of understanding one another’s beliefs. To get to that point, you have to have a lot of trust. It is a close relationship.
This is also the goal of the inter-faith festival. It is just the beginning of people getting to know one another.”
Rory Nisan, Lead Organizer for the One Burlington Festival can be reached at: 905-464-7195, rnisan@gmail.com
By Staff
August 14th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
They take to the grass this evening at 7:00 pm for the second season of Shakespeare at the RBG Rock.
 Trevor Copp Trevor Copp has done a remarkable piece of work with the Merchant of Venice and his cast of nine.
Copp sets out the story line. Money: Portia has it. Bassanio wants it. Shylock lends it. Antonio owes it. And it will cost him dearly.
Dark in its humour and bawdy in its romantic hijinks, The Merchant Of Venice takes audiences on a journey of love, mercy and (in)justice. And for the second consecutive year, Trevor Copp will direct the production; Copp is the founder and Artistic Director of the Tottering Biped Theatre.
 Alma Sarai as Portia and Zach Parsons as Bassanio, Last year, their first at the Rock Garden they brought in more than 2000 people to watch A Midsummer’s Night Dream.
It was a bold venture and it took courage on the part of the Royal Botanical Gardens administration to make the space available to Copp.
 Michael Hannigan as Antonio, It turned out to be a really wise move – the Burlington Hamilton markets might well be on the way to becoming the place where a director has the opportunity to produce a program that is vivid and entertaining.
There is an intimacy to the space used at the RBG Rock – well worth attending.
Opening night is this evening – the play will run August 14th to 18th ; 21st to 25th; the 28th and September 1st.
There are no Saturday shows.
Tickets are available on line.
By Pepper Parr
August 12th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Rain threatened so they moved the event from the patio to the expansive space indoors where the sound was just fine and the audience happy and dry. The third annual Jazz on the Patio was about to begin.
 Jane B on the clarinet. Jane Bunnett brought her exquisite all-female sextet: Maqueque and their soul of Cuba sound to the stage.
They were the first night performers of the very successful Jazz on the Patio series that the Performing Arts puts on each August. This is the third year and it worked wonderfully.
Four performances being done by four different female groups chosen by Brian McCurdy – who should be referred to as the Executive Director Emeritus of the Performing Arts Centre, has produced a sterling program.
He ran a superb program when he was the full time Executive Director and left a SOLD OUT performance for the woman that replaced him when he decided to try retirement – only to have to return to the job when she proved to be less than was expected.
Tammy Fox was brought in to run the place – she wasn’t at the Jazz event on Friday so we didn’t get to meet her but we have heard nothing but good things about the woman who has an impressive resume.
The problem with the Executive Directors at the Centre is that they seem to have trouble lasting beyond their sophomore year was the way one wag put it.
The really solid programs have been put in place by McCurdy – who was on hand to watch the event Friday evening.
The Jazz program is the best of that music form one is going to hear in this city. Take in the show – it is a free program – where you will hear some of the smartest and sweetest sounds that will float from the stage.
 The threat of rain moved the event indoors – it was still a fine event. In terms of numbers – the Performing Arts staff had nothing to complain about – there were a couple of places where you could find a seat but not many.
 A very good crowd, a very loyal crowd – but the demographic for the Performing Arts Centre needs to be broader. The problem was with the demo-graphics. The down-town crowd have made the Performing Arts Centre their turf and they are a loyal audience.
The younger crowd – the people who are the future of the Centre, just weren’t in the audience.
The Gazette was told that the marketing people distributed flyers, advertised in local markets including Hamilton and Oakville and had post cards delivered to homes in the Burlington market.
Something isn’t working – the room was full –and there is nothing wrong with the seniors and the in the process of becoming a senior market. But the purpose of the Centre is to include a wider demographic.
Whatever the magic is to attract those younger couples – the marketing people haven’t found it yet – and it certainly isn’t because they aren’t trying.
The program content for this Jazz on the Patio series is as good as it gets – equals anything you will hear at the bigger city locales.
 Classically trained violinist showed the audience how the sounds of the soul of Cuba can be heard. The classically trained Cuban violinist was superb. Those Cubans certainly know how to move on a stage. There were times when she was as aggressive with her bow as Ashley Macisaac has been on occasions.
It was just plain fine music in a great locale – take it in if you are downtown – performance in the afternoon and the evening on Saturday and on Sunday afternoon.
Jazz on the Patio at the Performing Arts Centre – program line up.
By Staff
August 11, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
This looks interesting.
If you are in the city, attending or taking part in a cultural event – take some family picture of all of you at the event and send the pictures into the theme is to have you celebrating Canada’s 150th by capturing your love of art and culture. Enter a photo of yourself or your family taking part in a unique cultural experience anywhere in Canada.
 The prizes are interesting. There are a couple of dozen Gazette readers we know who will be entering this contest. The
You could win a prize pack valued at over $1500* including a DSLR camera, 24 Cineplex movie passes for a year, and more!
Here is the web site to enter your pictures – all the details are there.
There are a number of corporate sponsors – the largest appears to be Sun Life
By Pepper Parr
August 10th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
We seldom realize just how much of our commonly used phrases come from the pen of William Shakespeare.
If you take in the upcoming production of The Merchant of Venice that will take the grassy lawn of the Rock Garden at Royal Botanical Gardens you will hear dozens of phrases that you use frequently without fully realizing where they cane from.
 The cast from the left: Chris Reid/Shylock, Michael Hannigan/Antonio, Alma Sarai/Portia, Shawn Coelho-DeSouza/Prince of Morocco and Lorenzo, Claudia Spadafora, Jessica, Isabel Starks/Ensemble, Jamie Kasiama/Nerissa, Zach Parsons/Bassanio, Jesse Horvath/Launcelot. Trevor Copp tells people that in the Merchant “Money makes the world go ’round: Portia has it. Bassanio wants it. Shylock lends it. Antonio owes it – and it will cost him dearly.
“Dark in its humour and bawdy in its romantic hijinks, The Merchant Of Venice takes audiences on a journey of love, mercy and (in)justice.
The cast of
 Isabel Starks and Alma Sarai during rehearsals taking notes on changes. Chris Reid/Shylock,
Michael Hannigan/Antonio,
Alma Sarai/Portia,
Shawn Coelho-DeSouza/Prince of Morocco and Lorenzo,
Claudia Spadafora/
Jessica, Isabel Starks/Ensemble,
Jamie Kasiama/Nerissa,
Zach Parsons/Bassanio,
Jesse Horvath/Launcelot
is in final rehearsals – they will put on two performances in St. Catharines before opening at the Rock Garden May 14th.
Is St. Catharines going to be Burlington’s Peoria – the city that many live productions try out on before hitting stages in Manhattan?
The schedule is August 14th to the 18th, 21st to 25th; the 28th and September 1
NO SATURDAY SHOWS
Tickets are available at:
 Michael Hannigan plays Antonio, This is the second year that Copp has mounted Shakespeare at the Rock Garden which provides the perfect atmosphere for a night of inspiring theatre under the stars. This is a very physical production that has a number of the 2016 crew returning to the stage.
The event was basically sold out last year; opening night RBG staff had to bring out additional seats. Heck even the Mayor was on hand – he didn’t stay for the full performance.
We sat in on a full rehearsal earlier this week. There a couple of line drops and some last minute change suggestions. Copp includes his staff at almost every level – certainly on the content of the production. Blocking and movement of different actors on the stage is a collaborative thing; more often than not he will say “sure, why not”.
 Copp: focused, intent but wide open to ideas and suggestions. His direction however is tightly focused – he doesn’t miss a thing and has a way of working with each actor in a way that works for the actor. While Copp is a dance artist in his own right – he doesn’t drag around a lot of ego with him.
The cast works well together – they like each other and share the ins and outs of their daily lives. These are educated and informed people with a sense of humour and some sharp wits as well. The black humour is not to be shared.
Each performance will include a half hour intermission with garden tours available during that time.
The Rock Garden will close to the general public at 5:30 p.m. Garden opens at 6 p.m. to those who have purchased tickets. Seating is first come first served.
 Great audiences last year – superb production coming this year. The performance is rain or shine however in the event of inclement weather, RBG will determine at 5 p.m. if the theatrical performance will be cancelled. To check for a cancellation please check our Facebook page or call the weather hotline at 905-527-1158 ext. 404.
Your ticket will be valid to attend a future show of your choosing. Please call 905-527-1158 ext. 516 to arrange your new date. For those with dinner reservations, dinner service will go ahead as planned. If the performance is cancelled while in progress, please see the event staff to reschedule for another performance date.
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