 By Staff
October 2, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The city has managed to get a lot of mileage out of the wood salvaged from two trees they said had to be cut down – they had lived 70 years and that was enough.
The wood salvaged from the trees has become iconic and is being made available to people who the city thinks will do something useful with the planks.
There are 15 planks, no detail on the length, width or thickness that will be given to whoever wins a draw to take place October 10th at city hall
 The trees and the setting. The Trees and the Gazebo are no longer part of the scene in Spencer Smith Park. There were 469 applications from people interested in making furniture or art from the wood 15 wood salvaged from those two iconic weeping willow trees removed from Spencer Smith Park.
The 70-year-old trees near the gazebo at the waterfront park at Lakeshore and Brant streets were removed in June 2016 after City of Burlington arborists found significant rotting and areas of decay in the trees. The trees were originally transplanted by park founder Spencer Smith in the 1950s.
The city is making use of the Spencer Smith willow tree wood through:
• Wood boards finished by local companies Arborwood Tree Service Inc. and Exotic Woods
• Wood chunks and 100 tree cuttings distributed in June
• A tribute planned for Spencer Smith Park at a later date.
 Willow tree trunks being trimmed and turned into planks. Due to the overwhelming interest in the wood boards, eligible applicants—those who demonstrate a skill in woodworking or who have hired a skilled woodworker—will be entered into a draw on Oct. 10. Ward 2 Councillor Marianne Meed Ward will draw the winning names.
The community, including all willow wood applicants, is invited to watch the draw take place on Tuesday, October 10th at 5:45 p.m. in the Atrium of City Hall, 426 Brant St.
Those who cannot attend can see the video on the city’s Facebook and Twitter accounts. Winners do not have to be present when their names are drawn.
 By Staff
September 26, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Herd today announced that the team has re-signed manager Kevin Hussey for the 2018 season. Hussey returns for his first full season as the skipper after replacing former Herd Manager Jeff Lounsbury in 2017.
 Kevin Hussey – won one game against a superior team – that got him the job of coach for the Burlington Herd. The 30-year-old Hussey was named the fourth manager in Burlington Herd history on July 13, 2017, the day he led the Herd to its first and only victory during the quarter finals – the London Majors took that series 4-1.
Looks as if the Herd felt that if Hussey could win a game against a tough team perhaps he was the guy to be given the task of somehow making a winning tram out of the Herd.
We wish him well,
Prior to joining the coaching ranks, Kevin played four years of college baseball at Olney Central Junior College between 2006-2008 and Chicago State University between 2008-2010.
During his time with both colleges, Kevin was a two year starter in both the NJCAA Division I and NCAA Division I baseball programs.
 Hussy took to the field with the Burlington Bandits as the teams starting catcher. In 31 games played, Hussey recorded a .290 batting average with 12 doubles, one home run and 16 RBIs. This past season with the Herd, Hussey has recorded two doubles, three home runs and eight RBI’s.
“We are very excited to welcome Kevin back as the field manager for the Herd,” said Herd President Ryan Harrison. “Kevin is committed to winning and creating that winning atmosphere in the clubhouse.”
In addition to his duties as field manager, Hussey will have direct input in assembling the 2018 roster for the Herd, including scouting, signing players and handling all operational aspects of the on field team.
InterCounty Baseball came to Burlington in 2011, first as the Twins, then as the Bandits and now the Herd
 By Staff
September 25, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
David Suzuki won’t get to Burlington until November – but if you want a ticket to the event – log into the Performing Arts Centre Wednesday – sometime after the noon hour and get your ticket. – They will move quickly.
 Jane Goodall spent time in Burlington in 2012 – she was a huge hit. Burlington Green has been very good at bringing top name speakers to the city. Jane Goodall came in 2012 And was a huge success.
You can expect even more from Suzuki.
“We’re expecting tickets to sell very quickly. David Suzuki doesn’t come to this part of the province often,” says BurlingtonGreen executive director Amy Schnurr. “All summer we’ve heard how excited people are to hear him speak.”
“Grassroots people have been organizing in towns and cities like Hamilton and Burlington and asking our politicians to recognize our right to live in a healthy environment,” said David Suzuki, award-winning scientist, environmentalist and broadcaster. “For the first time in Canadian history, our elected members of parliament are coming around to the simple but powerful idea that Canadians deserve to drink safe water, breath fresh air and eat clean food.”
Both Hamilton and Burlington have passed declarations recognizing their residents’ right to live in a
healthy environment.
 David Suzuki is a very engaging person. He dives right in and asks questions – younger audiences love him; adults revere him. Before the public event, David Suzuki will join 700 Halton youth for a free all-day environmental leadership conference co-hosted by BurlingtonGreen and the David Suzuki Foundation.
“Youth have a vital role to play in the environmental rights movement,” says Peter Wood, national campaign manager for environmental rights at the David Suzuki Foundation. “Two years ago, students at Ancaster High School and Acton District High School self-organized and successfully lobbied their city Councillors to pass a declaration supporting the right to a healthy environment. By inspiring government to do the right thing, the youth of today can become the environmental leaders of tomorrow.”
Event information are available at www.BurlingtonGreen.org or through the Burlington Performing Arts Centre box office. The event doesn’t appear to be on the Performing Arts Centre web site – you might be better served to give them a call – 905-681-6000
By Pepper Parr
September 23, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The man is iconic and the event is epic.
Perhaps just a little over the top – ya think?
 David Suzuki – to be in Burlington in November for three days, In their media release BurlingtonGreen added that they are “THRILLED” to announce they are partnering with the David Suzuki Foundation to present an incredible three component event on November 21st, 2017, featuring the iconic Dr. David Suzuki.
Halton youth from grades 7 to 12 will be invited to register to attend a free daytime Youth Eco-Summit, followed by a special early evening “VIP” event which will then lead into the main public event. Dr. Suzuki will be at all three events!
Tickets will be available through the Burlington Performing Arts Centre box office and online at www.burlingtonpac.ca starting September 27, 2017.
Burlington Green will be releasing more about these events early next week.
The Gazette will keep you posted.
 Paul Carvahlo (Burlington Mall Representative) with Dr. Jane Goodall and event sponsor, Joe Saunders of Burlington Hydro. Burlington Green has brought in world class speakers in the past. In 2012 they brought Jane Goodall to Burlington for a similar series of events.
Note the date – events like this are formative for students who are in the process of determining their values and the way they see the world.
David Suzuki will not disappoint.
 By Staff
September 22nd, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
This is truly amazing.
The Region has issued a Heat Warning for all of Halton.
As a result of extreme heat and humidity, Environment Canada has issued a Heat Warning for Halton Region starting Saturday, September 23. This warning is issued when forecast temperatures are expected to reach at least 31 degrees Celsius with overnight temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius for two days, or when a humidex of 40 or higher is expected for two days.
Will the outdoor city swimming pools be open this weekend? Notice on the city web site.
 The Nelson swimming pool – looks cool – inviting too. One would like to think that someone at city hall with some authority would be aware of the predicted hot weather and have the public outdoor pools kept open.No word from the city on that.
Call the Mayor. Think he has a pool – invite yourself over.
Especially at risk
• older adults (over the age of 65), infants and young children, people who work and exercise in the heat, people without adequate housing and those without air conditioning
• people who have breathing difficulties, heart problems, kidney problems or take heat-sensitive medications.
Prevention tips
• stay cool
• avoid strenuous outdoor activities
• seek shade from the sun
• spend time in air-conditioned places, such as shopping malls and community centres
• drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water
• visit friends and neighbours who may be at risk and never leave people or pets in your care unattended in a car
If you or someone in your care experiences rapid breathing, headache, confusion, weakness or fainting, please seek medical attention right away.
 Meanwhile there was snow in Jasper Alberta yesterday.
This is not weather, this is climate change – something we are going to have to get used to.
By Staff
September 22nd, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The Mayor put it very well when he said the book tells the story of the Escarpment in the best way he has heard it told, or words to that effect. Mark Zelinski, the author of the book that was being launched said the Mayor was the first person to bulk buy the book.
In an interview with Zelinski he told the Gazette that the Region declined to purchase the book. So much for support for the arts.
The occasion was a book launch that took place at RBG Rock Garden earlier this week. A surprisingly large audience listened to Mark Zelinski show some of the pictures in his lavishly illustrated Heart of Turtle Island.
 Mark Zelinski – photographer, publisher Zelinski did the bulk of the photography and was considerate enough to give public credit to pictures that were taken by others.
 Chezney Martin – writer – dancer – poet Chezney Martin, an Indig-enous dancer and poet,part of the Turtle Clan of the Seneca Nation. She lives at Six Nations.
Chezney wrote a portion of the book and read the short piece – it is worth sharing with you.
“The Thunder Beings are considered the supernatural grandfathers and protectors of the earth. They make appearances in many Haudenosaunee stories and tales. The duties of the Thunder Beings flow from the creation story to the belief that they keep dinosaurs underground with strikes of lightning.
“In this particular story we meet a monstrous snake-like beast conjured by witchcraft that decided to live within the Niagara waterways to kill and eat the Haudenosaunee people.
“Enraged by this, the Thunder Beings sought to dispel the snake with force. This battle raged on for days as thunder rumbled in the sky and lightning struck the serpent until it dissipated into a huge crevice in the earth, the same crevice we call the Niagara Gorge today.
“The Thunder Beings were suspicious as to whether or not the snake had truly been defeated. Rather than leaving the earth they sought shelter behind the waterfall that had been created by the serpent. The Thunder Beings natural rumbles were covered by the sound of falling water, as they awaited any sign that the snake had survived.
“Shortly after this battle, the clouds in the sky cleared to a beautiful day. The sunshine attracted a young woman to lie near the water. She was soon to be wed and wouldn’t have much time to enjoy her alone time once she had children.
“As she closed her eyes, the snake that was shrunken by the strikes of the Thunder Beings slithered out of the water. It is said that the snake entered her body during her rest.
“The young woman was later married and after the first night spent with her new husband, he died. She mourned and decided to try marriage again with the same result. She tried once more to marry, desperately craving a family. Her third husband died.
“Distraught with grief and guilt the young woman decided to end her life. She entered a canoe up stream and allowed the current to carry her to the waterfall.
“Just as her canoe was going to tip over the edge and to the sharp rocks below, the Thunder Beings heard her weeping. They caught her mid-fall, and brought her into their cave behind the water.
“Once inside, the Thunder Beings taught the young woman how to dispel witchcraft as they alleviated her of the snake and destroyed it.
“It is said that the Thunder Beings returned to the clouds. The knowledge passed on to the young woman was brought back to the Haudenosaunee and has been used ever since.
![1-turtle-island-cover-markzelinski.com[1]](https://burlingtongazette.ca/wp-content/uploads/1-turtle-island-cover-markzelinski.com1_-300x226.png) A lavishly illustrated book that is worth having and giving as a gift. “This is the story of The Maid of the Mist from the Original People.”
The book is on sale at the Different Drummer or directly from the author. If you are looking for a gift that will be appreciated for years to come – keep the title in mind.
Previously published news story.
 By Staff
September 21, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Maybe it is because Burlington has all kinds of high volume highways running through the city. Maybe it is because the men and women who make up our fire department decided they didn’t see that many serious fire any one year and decided they would focus on something and be really really good at it.
 Firefighters learning how to take the top off a car. Whichever the Burlington Fire department is as good as it gets in prying people out of badly damaged cars.
The Firefighter Vehicle Rescue Team recently competed and placed in several categories in the North American Vehicle Rescue Challenge hosted by Enfield Fire in Enfield, N.S.
The Burlington team, led by Ryan Stewart, placed first overall and first in Limited Pit, third in Unlimited Pit and first in Rapid Pit categories. Ryan Stewart was named Top Incident Commander and Mark Adams was honoured as Top Medic.
Unlimited Pit: In the unlimited pit you are free to use any tools you wish. Heavy hydraulic cutter and spreaders, pneumatic and electric tools are all permitted.
Limited Pit: In the limited pit, hydraulic tools are not allowed. In some cases not all municipalities have those hydraulic tools on every truck or available at every call. It is also a greater test of tool knowledge, using different tools that can require a greater skill set to operate.
Each team has 20 minutes to complete their work in what first responders refer to as “The Golden Hour”. The golden hour is a one-hour period following traumatic injury during which there is the greatest chances of survival.
Teams from all over the country, as well as teams from New York State, competed in the event that showcased firefighter skills and teamwork in a practical, competitive setting. Vehicle rescue teams use many skills: scene safety, vehicle stabilization, extrication and patient care. Live patients are placed into crushed vehicles in various positions of instability to simulate a real vehicle collision. Teams are given 20 minutes to safely get the patients out of vehicles.
The Burlington Fire Department has been participating in vehicle rescue competitions since 1984. The current team includes team captain Ryan Stewart, team medic Mark Adams and firefighters Chris Viegas, Liam Jewell, Frank Marciello and Scott Wells.
 Dressed for hard work – the Vehicle extraction team that brought winning prizes back to the city from a Nova Scotia based competition. The Vehicle Rescue Team practicing behind Burlington Fire Headquarters – from left to right: Chris Viegas, Frank Marciello, Mark Adams (Medic), Scott Wells, Liam Jewell, Ryan Stewart (Incident Commander) The team trains and fundraises for 10 hours each week to prepare for three weekend events each summer. Stewart returns for a second two-year rotation as captain while this is the first year for half the other members. Team members will spend a maximum of two years on the Vehicle Rescue Team and then other firefighters will be given the chance to experience this highly specialized training.
Burlington’s team trains, travels and competes at no cost to the taxpayer and relies on fundraising to cover expenses. You can help support the team by donating used electronics at fire stations located at 1255 Fairview St., 711 Appleby Line and 4100 Dundas St.
The team also accepts used vehicles for practice. Tax receipts are issued for vehicle donations. For more information, email vehiclerescue@burlington.ca or visit www.burlington.ca/vehiclerescue.
The Fire Department responds to an average of 650 to 700 motor vehicle collisions a year. The vehicle rescue team includes highly trained men and women who use the latest extrication knowledge, training, proven rescue techniques and equipment.
The first extrication competition held in the Province was hosted by the Ontario Fire College in 1984. The first BFD team competed in that competition.
 These guys clean up pretty god. From left to right: The Vehicle Rescue Team with their awards after the closing ceremonies in Enfield, N.S. Frank Marciello, Chris Viegas, Scott Wells, Mark Adams (Medic), Liam Jewell, Ryan Stewart (Incident Commander) Today the team consists of six firefighters who invest their personal time to train and compete. Each team member serves a two-year term. While on the team the firefighters are also tasked with delivering on-duty auto-ex training to their colleagues. This process closes the loop on the individual learning that occurs at the competitive level creating organizational learning for the fire department.
To date, 80 per cent of the department has participated on the vehicle rescue team.
 By Staff
September 20th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
That Sesquicentennial we celebrated on Canada Day has become a gift that just keeps on giving for the federal political class.
 Pam Damoff, MP for Oakville North-Burlington. Pam Damoff the Member of Parliament for Oakville North-Burlington has announced the intention to award 15 special Canada 150 Sesquicentennial Pins to outstanding residents of her riding who positively impact and influence the community.
In the media release sent out Damoff invites all residents of Oakville North-Burlington to nominate a distinguished individual for the Sesquicentennial Citizenship Award.
Successful nominees will be individuals who strive to make a positive difference in the community, whether it is through devoted advocacy or dedication to an organization, in one or more of four main categories: environmental stewardship, youth engagement, diversity and inclusion and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
 Damoff is known for her annual New Year’s Day Polar dip. Successful nominees will be presented with a Canada 150 Sesquicentennial Pin given to MP Damoff by the Minister of Heritage Mélanie Joly. Consisting of the Canada 150 logo and a piece of the original copper which covered the roofs of Canada’s Parliament from 1918 to 1996, Sesquicentennial pins are a special keepsake to commemorate this important milestone in Canadian history.
The unique pins were made with the participation of Under One Roof, an initiative of the Ottawa-Carleton Association for Persons with Developmental Disabilities, and crafted with the help of people with developmental disabilities.
 Nominations will be accepted from Wednesday, September 20 to Wednesday, November 1, 2017 at 5pm EST. Visit www.MP Damoff.ca to nominate someone today. You will be asked to include a short paragraph or two outlining how the candidate being nominated meets the above criteria.
Nominees can be of any age. All residents of Oakville North-Burlington will be considered.
Oakville North-Burlington’s Canada 150 Sesquicentennial Citizenship Awards will be presented at a special ceremony on November 16, 2017.
 By Pepper Parr
September 20th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
It was pretty close to a last minute idea for the Lakeshore Rotary people who put on the annual RibFest – they’ve been doing that for decades.
They had never done a 50/50 draw before – it sounded like a good idea – so they went for it.
It was an astounding success – with less than nothing in the way of promotion the thing just took off – the line ups on the Sunday and Monday were too long for some people – they gave up and went home.
 Lisa Wilson preps her husband Dave for his big moment – accepting a cheque for $25,285 – his share of the 50/50 raffle the rotary ran during RibFest. David Wilson didn’t give up.
Wilson, a Hamilton resident, was at Ribfest and bought a ticket on the Friday . He was with a bunch of his friends who were Ribbers – wilson is a Ribber himself – runs Bibs and has been taking part in the Burlington event for at lat ten years.
He spent $20 in 50/50 tickets – that turned out to be a heck of an investment.
When he got the telephone call saying he had wone he was sure it was a prank call from one of his Ribber buddies
Dave and his wife Lisa attended the Rotary lunch yesterday to accept their cheque. Dave, who couldn’t stop smiling, was thoroughly enjoying himself.
 David Wilson with his wife Lisa and a big cheque The Rotary got their permit to hold the event days before the RibFest opened. They had to call in every member they could find to sell the tickets – but sell then they did – $50,570 worth of tickets of which Dave Wilson got $25,285
The Rotary will certainly be doing this event next year.
The winning ticket is drawn randomly from all the tickets that are purchased and the winner has to be able to identify themselves as the person whose name is on the ticket.
The Lakeshore Rotary will certainly be doing this again next year.
By Staff
September 18th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The weather was as good as it could get – and the turnout was superb for the 36th Annual Terry Fox Run
There were 1050 participants this year up from 900 last year and 70 volunteers which is about the same.
Funds come in throughout the year – so it isn’t easy to say how much was raised.
The final number for last year was $91,589.
 The Start and the Finish of th Terry Fox Run took place in Spencer Smith Park,  Team Casey people had their own T-shirt The total to date for this year is $91,971 – of that $16,691 came from Team Casey
Historically after the run another $5k to $15k comes in as donations which are accepted year round. Last year $12k came in after run day.
The past several years the Team Casey idea caught on – this year there was a tent set up for their use, it was never empty.
 They needed a drone to get the camera high enough up in the air to get everyone in the picture. The group wanted a picture with everyone in it – camera couldn’t get them all in – so a drone was used to capture everyone
For the first time ever the people who manage the Run sold out of the Terry Fox T-shirts.
The Team Casey people had their own T- shirt so the increase in sales wasn’t due to the close to 200 people who were members of the Team.
By Staff
September 18th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
There were a reported “hundreds” of United Way community partners on the tarmac at the John C. Munroe Hamilton International Airport to pull a 200,000 lb.
Over 250 community partners joined UPS and United Way to rally around this fall’s fundraising campaign. Teams of 15 pulled with all their strength to move the 200,000 lb. plane across the finish line.
 “We are so grateful for the support and dedication of partners like UPS and so many who continue to stay committed to making our community great for everyone”, said United Way
President & CEO, Jeff Vallentin during his opening remarks at the Hamilton Airport.
“As you know, the beginning of April was a watershed time for the United Way movement in our region. Vallentin was referring to the decision to amalgam all four United Way operating in Halton with the Hamilton organization.
“We are focused now, more than ever, on ensuring that we remain connected to the issues that face each of the communities we serve and as always all dollars raised local will stay local. That means that whatever is raised in your community will go directly to support programs and services for your neighbours, family, and friends.” said Vallentin.
Ken Smithard, Campaign Chair and President of Cogeco Connexion also delivered opening remarks and helped to reveal the United Way Halton & Hamilton 2017 Campaign goal. “United Way Halton & Hamilton is focused on responding to local needs and providing critical impact in five distinct communities across the region. Monies raised in each community remain in that community.” Ken continued, “I am proud to support United Way and ask that you join me in helping make these communities better places for all of us to live; we’re stronger together.”
Ken then joined the rest of the Campaign Cabinet on the tarmac to reveal the $10,000,000 goal for the 2017 Campaign.
 Also in attendance at the event was Craig Rayner, Vice-president of Automotive at UPS Canada. He discussed the 30 year partnership between United Way and UPS mentioning that, “ In 2016, UPSers across Canada raised more than $1.2 million in charitable donations. These contributions were a combination of both employee engagement and sponsored events, including our four nation-wide “Pulling for U” plane pull events in Hamilton, Mississauga, Vancouver and Calgary.”
Craig spoke about the importance of giving back to our neighbours, family and friends and their over three- decade long partnership with United Way.
 By Staff
September 18th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
It has been announced as the Mother of All Photo Ops – and for Burlington that is saying something.
The political class was thought to have that all to themselves but the Friends of the Freeman Station are moving in on that title.
On Friday night, September 29th at 6:30 PM Bob Chambers, a professional photographer who did the photograph accompanying this article will take another picture – this time it will include:
 Photographer Bob Chambers has produced the best picture yet of the Freeman Station. Those who have volunteered in any capacity during the restoration project
Members of the Friends of Freeman Station
Supporters of the project
This is going to be a historic group photo.
The picture is going to be taken — rain or shine — when everyone is assembled and the dramatic sunset light envelops is available.
Make sure anyone you know who’s been involved with the Freeman Station restoration project is invited to join the group photo.
 You can buy a T shirt and show your support. What do you wear? Wear what you’d wear when you were working at the Station. Please, no shorts, loud shirts, or humorous garb – or Bob may put you behind the group, even if you’re short!
The next day, Saturday, bring your family to a fun day at Freeman Station for the Doors Open Burlington event.
The Friends of Freeman Station expect to welcome more than 1000 people to the Station that has undergone a remarkable renovation. It is something well worth seeing.
By Staff
September 15th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
It is that time of year again when everyone is asked to pitch in, pull together and raise the funds the United Way needs to support those in need.
This Saturday, September 16th, United Way and UPS Canada will bring together community partners to pull a pull a 200,000 lbs Airbus A300 as a demonstration of what can be done when everyone pulls.
The event will take place at the John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport.
 United Way Plane Pull 2016 Each team will get one opportunity to pull the plane 50 feet across the tarmac in the shortest amount of time. The fastest three teams will participate in a pull-off.
Prizes will be awarded to the three fastest teams, top fundraising team, and teams with the most spirit.
The United Way is a different organization now. We used to know it as the Burlington Greater Hamilton United Way – they outgrew that name and are now United Way Halton & Hamilton and include all the municipalities in the Region rolled into the one organization
It was a controversial move – didn’t get the required number of votes the first time around but after some lobbying and frank conversations all the municipalities were brought to realize that his kind of structure is what was needed.
 The new organization will be “showing the flag” in all five communities it serves this weekend! Look up into the sky Saturday morning to see a surprise, sponsored by Cogeco! Share your photos on social media and include @UnitedWayHH and #improvingliveslocally.
All those whose living depend on photo ops will be on hand on Saturday at the airport. Scheduled to attend:
 United Way Executive Director Jeff Valentin MP Bob Bratina, Hamilton East — Stoney Creek
MP Karina Gould, Burlington
Sam Oosterhoff, Niagara West—Glanbrook
Mayor Burton, Town of Oakville
Jeff Vallentin, CEO United Way Halton & Hamilton, will deliver opening remarks.
Ken Smithard, CEO Cogego & United Way Halton & Hamilton Campaign Chair will deliver remarks and reveal the 2017 campaign goal.
It all takes place Saturday, September 16th, 2017 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
 Former City general manager Kim Phillips gives it more than the old college try for the United Way. In the past few years the Gazette has watched the public face of the United Way change. We used to see city hall much more engaged. The equipment pulls used to take place on Brant Street outside city hall with a BBQ lunch where staff got to pony up.
The city was always very good in the way they supported the United Way. The occasion was fun and at the same time told the story about the need.
It seems more corporate these days – which has not been the United Way in the past. Supporting people is a human endeavour – it’s a heart to heart thing – not a page of talking points.
 Someone at city hall decided to hold a content – and had each department competing with the others on how they would tell the United Way story. One department had two teams. Everyone had fun – and they raised more from the staff than they had in the past. United Way is a people story which the city staff once told very very well.
 By Staff
September 14th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
As part of Culture Days, The Burlington Performing Arts Centre is hosting an Arts and Culture Marketplace, opening the doors to showcase local arts organizations, groups, and artists. The marketplace will be held in The Centre’s lobby on Saturday, September 30 from 10am–4pm.
The event is free.
 The Burlington Teen Tour Band will be on hand to tell their story. Stop by with your family and friends throughout the day to participate in arts and culture activities.
Meet The Burlington Performing Arts Centre’s Executive Director, Tammy Fox, between 12pm-2pm in the lobby.
 Some of the work hat has come out of the Kirkland Lynch Studio. Participating groups include: Aldershot Players, Arts & Culture Council of Burlington, Art Gallery of Burlington, Art in Action Studio, Burlington Civic Chorale, Burlington Concert Band, Burlington Fine Arts Association, Burlington Footnotes, Burlington New Millennium Orchestra, Burlington Public Library, Burlington Suzuki School of Music, FLK Taoist Tai Chi, Harbourtown Sound, Lowville Festival, Kirkland Lynch Studio Gallery, Mark Zelinski – Photographer, New Horizons Adult Concert Band, Red Leaf Cultural Integration, Rotary Burlington Music Festival, Sahaja Yoga Meditation, soFX, Symphony on the Bay, and The Burlington Slam Project.
Wow! That is an impressive list.
Each group will share their history, future plans, memberships, auditions, and information on upcoming performances.
Many people in the arts community are grumbling about what little is being heard from city hall on the Culture Day program.
By Staff
September 14th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The Rocca Sisters, a Burlington Realtor point out that the August real estate sales results need some perspective: you have to look at the last 6 months.
 In March 2017(the peak of the runaway hot market), prices were up by over 30%, year over year.
In August, prices were up 2.3% a slight improvement over July when prices were up 2.2% year over year.
Interestingly, CPI for the same period was up by 1.3% which suggests that even when the real estate market is experiencing a reversal of fortunes, as an investment, it’s still outstripping CPI.
Sales are down by 20%, DOM are up by over 50% and inventory levels are 137% higher at the end of August 2017 then they were in 2016.
These conditions indicate that Burlington is now in a balanced market. If all goes according to plan, this balanced environment will continue right through to the spring.
The interest rate increase announced recently will ensure that the market remains balanced and that’s exactly what the increase is meant to do – Cool things down.
By Staff
September 13th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
 The willow trees and the gazebo lent the east end of Spencer Smith Park a certain charm. Those willow tree (there were two of them) that the city cut down because they were thought to be dangerous to the public did have one very small upside – people could get a piece of trees that were planted more than 70 years ago.
To mollify the public disappointment the city is handing out pieces of the tree – all you had to do was go on line and make a request.
Turned out it wasn’t quite that simple.
There was a glitch somewhere in the software that makes all these wonderful things happen – the techies recently discovered issues with some online forms completed by the public and is asking those affected to resubmit their information.
 The new gazebo – all metal and pretty sterile. In time, we suppose, the trees around it will grow and add some character. The technical issues affected Willow Tree wood request forms between Aug. 2 and Aug. 3 at www.burlington.ca/willowtrees and all applications for a 2018 Community Garden.
The technical issues have been fixed and the forms are now being received by the city. The Willow Tree Wood form deadline has been extended until Friday, Sept. 15, 2017.
By Staff
September 12, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The City of Burlington and the KaBOOM! Aldershot community planning committee will hold an official opening ceremony for the new playground at Bolus Gardens Parkette on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2017 at 1 p.m. during Alderfest.
Translation – Photo op for the Mayor and the Council member.
Aldershot community volunteers, organizations and businesses joined Foresters FinancialTM and non-profit KaBOOM! during a Build Day in August to create the new play space, which will serve more than 1,200 children and their families in the local community.
 This is what the community designed – the project is now complete and gets an official opening later in the month. The design for the new playground was based on drawings created by neighborhood children at a special Design Day event that was held in June when community members met with organizers from KaBOOM! and Foresters FinancialTM to design their dream playground. The drawings inspired the final playground design.
Mayor Rick Goldring and Ward 1 Councillor Rick Craven will cut a special link ribbon made by community children on Build Day and will recognize the community residents and businesses that helped with the project.
Alderfest is an annual festival hosted by the Aldershot BIA, the Aldershot Lions and the Surrey Warwick Community Association. The family event celebrates the people, activities and services in the Aldershot Community.
Bolus Gardens Parkette commemorates the efforts of George Bolus and friends who transformed the area in the parkette for the community.
KaBOOM! is a national non-profit dedicated to bringing balanced and active play into the daily lives of all kids, particularly those growing up in poverty in America. Since 1996, KaBOOM! has collaborated with partners to build, open or improve nearly 16,700 playgrounds, engaged more than one million volunteers and served 8.5 million children.
KaBOOM! creates places to play, inspires communities to promote and support play, and works to drive the national discussion about the importance of play in fostering healthy lives and communities. More on the KaBOOM Facebook page – facebook.com/kaboom.
 By Staff
September 12, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Residents are going to have to figure out what they want to do this Sunday.
Both the Amazing Bed Race and the Terry Fox Run for cancer are taking place on Sunday the 17th.
Not at the same time but close together.
Beds will be on Brant Street – The Terry Fox Run will start in Spencer Smith Park and go to the canal and back for a distance of 4.5 km
Construction work being done on the eastern end of the Naval Promenade requires the Terry Fox event to shorten the distance this year and to keep all the traffic on the Waterfront Trail which will mean no bikes.
The Terry Fox run organizing committee has not been able to get city hall to do any jiggling of the times for the events so both are taking place on the same day.
Registration for the Amazing Bed race doesn’t take place until 11 am, by which time most of the Terry Fox run people are finishing up.
The city was not at all responsive to changing anything about the Bed Race. Craig Gardner said he found the city was getting “more intrusive by shutting roads even sooner – they close Brant at 8 am when our folks arrive. We asked if they could close at 9 and were told no.”
Registration for volunteers is 7:30 to 8am, registration for runners is 8 am(located parallel to the parking lot on the west side of Spencer’s restaurant on the grassy area by the Terry Fox Monument.
Runners will leave at 9 am and walkers/strollers leave at 10 am.
Once again because of the use of waterfront trail sadly NO BIKES.
 Route map for the 36th annual Terry Fox Run – they have raised millions for cancer research. The design work was done by the good people at Striped Aardvark – check them out.
The Terry Fox run is particular poignant this year – the recent passing of Casey Cosgrove who was one of the moving forces behind the installation of the 3582 km marker in Spencer Smith Park will draw additional hundreds to the event.
Times are
By Staff
September 12, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
It took a long time to actually get PopUp patios operating in the city.
 Outdoor dining – where few found the passing traffic to be a problem. The first was at what used to be the Test Kitchen on Brant Street – they closed but not because of the PopUp.
Papa Giuseppe’s moved into the location and put up a PopUp patio that was popular.
Then the Coop that set up shop in what used to be the Rude Native location put a PopUp outside their restaurant on Brant Street.
The city wants to know what the public thinks of the things.
 They weren’t obtrusive and they weren’t inexpensive to install. Took the city years to make a decision and the uptake by the hospitality industry wasn’t all the high – just two locations. The people who operate the restaurants that have PopUps outside would really like to city to lighten up on the rules and the paper work.
The survey is short – link to it is – you have until October 6th to say what you think.
 One of the younger runners enters the home stretch of the Terry Fox 5k run. Many his age did a second go around to make it a 10k run. By Pepper Par
September 9th 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The way in which a community comes together to support a family that has been devastated is something to behold.
Hundreds upon hundreds of people in Burlington and those involved in any way with what Casey Cosgrove did in and for Burlington, have rallied and moved in to support the family during a very hard time.
 Casey with his wife and daughter out on the streets in the Alton community distributing flyers door to door for the Terry Fox run – this was in 2013. One group has taken on the task of preparing meals.
Another has set up a Gofundme campaign to raise funds to ensure that the three children are able to complete their education.
Last week the lineup of people at the Wave Twin Rinks, Pub 21 wound down the stairs and outside the building; an amazing turnout.
One can only guess at how many people are going to show up at the annual Terry Fox run on Sunday the 17th – everyone will be a Team Casey participant.
A few hours after the run there will be a celebration of Casey’s life at the Burlington Convention Centre on Burloak between 4 and 6 pm.
The people who set up the Gofundme account described what they were setting out to the with the Memorial Education Fund.
“After being diagnosed in 2010 with stage 4 Lung Cancer and enduring a courageous 7 year battle against all odds, our dear Casey has left us to battle on without him. Ever optimistic and ready to push headlong into the next trial, Casey showed us all the true meaning of courage, bravery, positivity, spirit, and strength. Casey always donated his time and energy to several community causes and was ever present as a Champion for the Terry Fox Foundation, working tirelessly to help bring the Terry Fox Mile Marker to Burlington. He touched hundreds of people, leaving a lasting impression of what a true Hero is. Any contributions that can be made to help with educational costs for his three loving children Evan, Jack and Kate would be greatly appreciated.
The Casey Cosgrove Memorial Education fund web site is HERE
Our last interview with Casey Cosgrove.
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