We can turn garbage into fuel - so why aren't we doing that

By Harold Dickert

January 18th, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON

 

No one is talking about “Garbage into oil” technology.   Not even the Canadian Liberal Party, who added major funding to the world’s largest facility now under construction just outside of Montreal – built by Enerkem (https://enerkem.com/).

From 360 000 tonnes of waste To 285 000 000 liters of clean fuels

Continue reading We can turn garbage into fuel – so why aren’t we doing that

Return to the Front page

Insider Trading Data Filed Wednesday, January 15, 2025 to Thursday,

By James Portside

January 17th, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON


This information is not professional investment advice. Investors are advised to do their own research into individual stocks before making an investment decision.

The five stocks with the largest dollar value of insider acquisitions in the public market are:

Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust —–Buy Quantity: 99,700 Average cost: $5.50 Total: $548,294.92
Insider Relationship Transaction Date Quantity Price Total
Morguard Corporation 3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-15-25 57,400 $5.50 $315,644.92
Morguard Corporation 3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-14-25 14,400 $5.50 $79,200.00
Morguard Corporation 3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-13-25 27,900 $5.50 $153,450.00
First National Financial Corporation —–Buy Quantity: 12,824 Average cost: $39.00 Total: $500,136.00
Insider Relationship Transaction Date Quantity Price Total
FNSC Holdings Inc. 3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-14-25 6,412 $39.00 $250,068.00
Smith Financial Corporation 3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer 47 – Acquisition or disposition by gift 01-14-25 -6,412 $38.99 -$250,003.88
Smith, Stephen 4 – Director of Issuer, 7 – Director or Senior Officer of Insider or Subsidiary of Issuer (other than in 4,5,6) 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-14-25 6,412 $39.00 $250,068.00
Smith, Stephen 4 – Director of Issuer, 7 – Director or Senior Officer of Insider or Subsidiary of Issuer (other than in 4,5,6) 47 – Acquisition or disposition by gift 01-14-25 -6,412 $38.99 -$250,003.88
Morguard Corporation —–Buy Quantity: 3,200 Average cost: $111.00 Total: $355,200.00
Insider Relationship Transaction Date Quantity Price Total
Armoyan, Sime 3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-13-25 3,200 $111.00 $355,200.00
Jaguar Mining Inc —–Buy Quantity: 120,800 Average cost: $2.23 Total: $268,828.32
Insider Relationship Transaction Date Quantity Price Total
2176423 Ontario Ltd. 3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-13-25 60,400 $2.23 $134,414.16
Sprott, Eric 3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-13-25 60,400 $2.23 $134,414.16
Tourmaline Oil Corp —–Buy Quantity: 2,500 Average cost: $66.44 Total: $166,109.00
Insider Relationship Transaction Date Quantity Price Total
Rose, Mike 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-16-25 2,500 $66.44 $166,109.00
The five stocks with the largest dollar value of insider dispositions in the public market are:

G Mining Ventures Corp —–Sell Quantity: -514,622 Average cost: $13.17 Total: -$6,780,144.22 Options Issued: 34,622 Average cost: $0.00 Total: $0.00
Insider Relationship Transaction Date Quantity Price Total
La Mancha Capital Management GP 3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-13-25 -160,000 $13.19 -$2,109,904.00
La Mancha Investments S.à r.l. 3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-13-25 -160,000 $13.19 -$2,109,904.00
Loza-Sawiris, Yousriya 3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-13-25 -160,000 $13.19 -$2,109,904.00
MacDonald, Norman 4 – Director of Issuer 51 – Exercise of options 01-13-25 34,622 $0.00 $0.00
MacDonald, Norman 4 – Director of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-13-25 -34,622 $13.01 -$450,432.22
Canadian Natural Resources Limited —–Sell Quantity: -85,504 Average cost: $45.00 Total: -$3,847,721.98 Options Issued: 85,504 Average cost: $10.85 Total: $927,977.44
Insider Relationship Transaction Date Quantity Price Total
Balog, Brenda Gayle 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer 51 – Exercise of options 01-13-25 4,504 $19.36 $87,197.44
Balog, Brenda Gayle 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-13-25 -4,504 $45.37 -$204,341.98
Stainthorpe, Mark Allen 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer 51 – Exercise of options 01-15-25 81,000 $10.38 $840,780.00
Stainthorpe, Mark Allen 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-15-25 -81,000 $44.98 -$3,643,380.00
Peyto Exploration & Development Corp —–Sell Quantity: -103,000 Average cost: $17.09 Total: -$1,760,770.00 Options Issued: 105,000 Average cost: $11.85 Total: $1,244,250.00
Insider Relationship Transaction Date Quantity Price Total
Lachance, Jean-Paul Henri 4 – Director of Issuer, 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer 51 – Exercise of options 01-13-25 35,000 $9.49 $332,150.00
Lachance, Jean-Paul Henri 4 – Director of Issuer, 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-13-25 -35,000 $17.20 -$602,000.00
Lachance, Jean-Paul Henri 4 – Director of Issuer, 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer 51 – Exercise of options 01-14-25 38,300 $12.38 $474,323.00
Lachance, Jean-Paul Henri 4 – Director of Issuer, 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-14-25 -38,300 $16.96 -$649,680.00
Lachance, Jean-Paul Henri 4 – Director of Issuer, 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer 51 – Exercise of options 01-15-25 31,700 $13.81 $437,777.00
Lachance, Jean-Paul Henri 4 – Director of Issuer, 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-15-25 -31,700 $17.10 -$542,070.00
Carlson, Tavis Aaron 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-16-25 2,000 $16.49 $32,980.00
Byrna Technologies, Inc —–Sell Quantity: -43,731 Average cost: $39.89 Total: -$1,744,562.19
Insider Relationship Transaction Date Quantity Price Total
Eng, Victor 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-15-25 -43,731 $39.89 -$1,744,562.19
Agnico Eagle Mines Limited —–Sell Quantity: -10,000 Average cost: $120.27 Total: -$1,202,730.00
Insider Relationship Transaction Date Quantity Price Total
Girard, Dominique 5 – Senior Officer of Issuer 10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market 01-14-25 -10,000 $120.27 -$1,202,730.00


What is Insider Trading?

How Insider Trading works.

Return to the Front page

10 Busiest Airports in Canada

By Lisa Nathalie

January 17th, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON

 

 Canada is home to some of the most diverse bucket-list destinations on the planet — it has some of the best ski slopes, thousands of kilometres of untouched nature, and multiple hubs of commerce and entertainment of international renown. This, coupled with its expansive tourism push in recent years, means that Canada relies on an adaptable and modern aviation industry.

Luckily for tourists and Canadians alike, the nation hosts North America’s busiest and most technologically advanced airports, perfect for handling the influx of tourism expected over the next ten years. Take a look at the top ten busiest airports in Canada.

10. Kelowna International Airport (YLW)

Kelowna Airport – gets people into the heart of British Columbia wine regions.

You can fly into Kelowna, a critical gateway to British Columbia’s Okanagan region, to explore some of Canada’s best wineries, lake regions, and the breathtaking scenery of Osoyoos. The airport serves around 2,000,000 passengers a year and offers destinations nationwide and routes all the way down to sunny Mexico.

9. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)

The Billy Bishop Airport is minutes from Toronto’s downtown core.

Toronto’s second-largest airport, situated on the Toronto Islands, is named after one of Canada’s most iconic fighter pilots. This airport caters to just over 2,000,000 passengers a year and makes a great alternative to the massive Toronto Pearson International Airport, especially if you’re looking for either domestic or short-haul flights. You can expect shorter security queues and faster processing times so that you can make every minute count of your vacation or work trip.

8. Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ)

Coming in at 8th place on the list is Halifax Stanfield. The airport serves the Halifax region, mainland Nova Scotia, and other areas in the Maritime provinces. As Canada’s easternmost international airport, it is a vital connection for rural communities and also provides hundreds of jobs for the region’s tourism sector. The airport generated a massive C$4.2 billion for the Nova Scotia economy in 2023 alone, and with a rise of over 20%, it’s expected to continue to grow in the coming years.

The airport is also home to numerous Fixed-Based Operators (FBOs), private companies that provide essential aviation services like fuel, parking, maintenance, and passenger amenities.

7. Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport (YWG)

Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport, located in the Winnipeg Capital Region, handled just over 4 million passengers last year. YWG is crucial for connecting small communities living in difficult conditions with regularly scheduled flights to Northern Manitoba, Northwestern Ontario, and Nunavut.

6. Ottawa/Macdonald–Cartier International Airport (YOW)

As the airport serving Canada’s capital city, Ottawa International is a home base for  Canadian North and a major hub for Porter Airlines, which is investing $65 million into the airport infrastructure over the coming years. The airport serves the National Capital Region with over 4 million passengers annually — a 36.9% increase on the previous year, the highest such growth among Canada’s busiest airports.

The airport’s modern terminal, extended in 2008, features artwork reflecting the region’s history and culture, creating a uniquely Canadian welcome for first-time visitors to the country.

5. Edmonton International Airport (YEG)

Climbing into the top 5 busiest airports in Canada sees a marked jump in passenger numbers, with a massive 7.4 million passengers flying in and out of Edmonton International Airport. The airport caters to residents and visitors to the Edmonton Metro Region, some three hours north of Calgary.

The airport itself is so busy due to the lack of other major cities in the region, making it the only major airport for those travelling from Alberta and Saskatchewan.

4. Calgary International Airport (YYC)

Calgary International Airport, also known as “the gateway to the Rockies,” serves a whopping 18.5 million passengers a year. One reason for YYC’s huge numbers is its proximity to Banff and Canada’s impressive range of ski destinations.

YYC is home to two terminals — one domestic and one international — and serves as the main hub for Canadian airline WestJet. The airport offers world-class accessibility with modern parking systems, easy-to-use car rental services, and the reliable Calgary Transit System, which offers routes across the region.

3. Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL)

Serving the Greater Montreal area, Montréal–Trudeau International Airport is a bustling hub that managed over 21 million passengers in 2023. This large operation is the region’s primary link between Canada’s French-speaking population and the rest of the world.

YUL’s strategic location makes it perfect for transatlantic flights, with popular routes to Paris, London, and Frankfurt. This dynamic location, combined with a modern general aviation terminal, makes it an ideal airport for those looking to charter a private plane to Europe and beyond. Domestic travellers also benefit from frequent flights to Toronto, Vancouver, and Halifax.

2. Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Some people choose to dine at the airport before their departure. Vancouver has a superb restaurant that uses an Indigenous theme at its entrance.

Vancouver International Airport, nestled on Sea Island in Richmond, British Columbia, is the busiest airport in Western Canada. Welcoming almost 25 million passengers in 2023, the airport is the ultimate gateway to the region’s surrounding mountains, lakes, and the icy North Pacific. YVR is consistently ranked as one of the best airports in North America and was most recently named as the number-one airport on the continent in 2024.

Vancouver International is also the nation’s best link to Asia, with frequent flights to Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Seoul. Its location also makes it a popular stopover for flights to Australia and New Zealand.

1. Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)

Toronto’s Pearson Airport

With almost double the capacity of number two on the list, Toronto has been Canada’s busiest airport for decades. It’s the primary hub for Air Canada and the second busiest arrivals hub for international travellers to North America. Serving the Greater Toronto Area, Pearson handled an impressive 44.8 million passengers in 2023, making it the pride of Canada’s already-impressive aviation industry.

Located just outside Toronto in Mississauga, Pearson offers direct flights to destinations on every continent. With its cutting-edge amenities, including world-class dining and shopping, Toronto Pearson sets the standard for Canadian airports when it comes to sheer size and availability.

Canada, Connected

With some of the most forward-thinking, accessible, and downright massive airports in North America, Canada continues to impress year-on-year with its dazzling array of airports. Vancouver continues to offer the best service in North America, Toronto Pearson connects you to the world with ease, and Calgary, Halifax, and Winnipeg airports continue to provide a vital lifeline to some of the continent’s remotest communities.

Return to the Front page

Just how much trouble is North American media in?

By Pepper Parr

January 17th, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON

If you want to know just how much trouble media is in North America try this on for size.

Jeff Bezos with his second wife Laura Sanchez

The Washington Post, owned by Jeff Bezos, who owns the Amazon organization told the Post editorial staff they were not to endorse any candidate during the election.

The Post was said to be getting ready to endorse Kamala Harris.

The Post had a tag line, Democracy Dies in Darkness, that was always published under the title of the newspaper.

Continue reading Just how much trouble is North American media in?

Return to the Front page

Shocking Truth: How Economic Sanctions Are Crashing Global Currencies

By John Nicolic

January 17th, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON

One or more countries can take economic sanctions against another country in order for the latter state to lose certain economic opportunities. Sanctions aim to change the state’s behavior, decrease its economy, or penalize it for the occurrence of international violations. Trade restrictions, asset freezes, and restrictions on financial transactions are all sorts of sanctions.

These measures have a variety of impacts on the target country’s economy, from reducing export dollars to raising import costs and foreign investment. A perfect example here is Russia right now. Sanctions also have a psychological effect on consumers and investors, which leads to huge capital outflow, and a devaluation of national currencies.

Sanctions and National Currencies

Often, countries under sanctions have very devalued their national currencies. This is due to several factors:

  • Access to international capital markets is restricted;
  • Cuts in exports because of trade bans;
  • Loss of investor confidence and huge capital outflow;
  • Foreign currency reserves liquidation.

The ruble lost a lot of its value after, for example, in 2014 when sanctions were imposed on Russia. A sharp drop in export revenues particularly in the form of oil and gas sales led to such a shortage of foreign exchange earnings that proved to be the main factor.

The Case of Iran

Iran has been facing sanctions for decades, which has had serious consequences for its national currency, the rial. The main effects include persistent inflation due to restrictions on imports of vital goods, a decline in the foreign exchange reserves needed to maintain the currency, and the emergence of a shadow market for currency exchange where the rial’s exchange rate differs significantly from the official rate.

In addition to that, Iran has been forced to look for alternatives to trading, and one of them was using barter transactions or cryptocurrency. This example serves global Forex trader a reminder that geopolitical factors need to be factored in before looking at currency risk.

The Venezuelan Crisis

The economic downturn in Venezuela has been exacerbated by falling oil prices, with sanctions against Venezuela among the possible culprits. The national currency — the Bolivar — has effectively become nearly worthless and hyperinflation has gone into hyperdrive. The loss of oil revenues as the primary foreign exchange source made it impossible to raise capital abroad, and the loss of trust in the economic system by the domestic and foreign public (citizens and the international community) had been key causes.

In this case, we see the negative impact of reliance on a single export commodity that renders an economy vulnerable to sanctions and global shocks. What is more, such crises show how quickly macroeconomic problems can grow into the total collapse of the economy.

Impact of sanctions on Venezuela:

 

Factor Consequences
Loss of oil revenues Decrease in foreign exchange reserves
Restrictions on financial transactions Inability to attract foreign capital
Loss of confidence in the economic system Hyperinflation and devaluation of the bolivar

The example of Venezuela for global traders demonstrates why it is never a bad idea to diversify and remember geopolitical factors when thinking about currency risk. This is precisely the situation in which you should pay to have your investments handled by brokers such as the xChief. A proven forex broker will reduce the impact of these factors on your investment, plus supply you with quality analytics.

Ripple Effects on Global Markets

Sanctions hit their targets as well as the global markets. The main consequence is an increase in the price of commodities such as oil and gas because of less supplies. Increased volatility in currency markets means both threat and opportunity for traders: The sanctions strengthen alternate currency usage such as the Chinese yuan or cryptocurrencies as a means to avoid sanctions restrictions. The situation is that reduced world economic growth results from falling international trade. As a result, often sanctions completely upset the global currency landscape, launch new financial alliances, and intensify the need for portfolio diversification on the investor’s side.

Lessons for Traders

Sanctions need to be considered in any trader’s strategy. Key lessons include:

  1. Check on the news imposing or tightening sanctions that may have an impact on currencies and stock prices;
  2. Analyze the long-term effects on a currency due to sanctions, including a dependency on the export of a limited commodity;
  3. Of course, diversify the portfolio to mitigate the exposure to geopolitical risks;
  4. To minimize the losses that occur during volatility, use risk management tools like stop losses and limit orders.

The currencies of countries not covered by sanctions can be also thought of as attractive to investors in conditions of geopolitical instability. For example, you might think the US dollar, or the Swiss franc, is a safe haven.

Conclusion

Exchange rates and global economic stability are influenced by economic sanctions. However, analyzing their impact allows the traders to understand better currency market dynamics and minimize risk. Past cases provide lessons that for success in foreign exchange markets you need to be flexible, driven, and able to adapt to changing geopolitical circumstances.

Return to the Front page

Four Winter Break Camps scheduled at Brant Museum

By Staff

December 10th, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

 The Museum Educators have planned four days of fun over the holiday break.

Camps are for children aged 5-12 years. The cost is $55 per child/day (Family Museum Members receive 10% off).

Camp runs from 9am – 4pm at Joseph Brant Museum on Dec 23, Dec 30, Jan 2, and Jan 3. Register HERE for one day or all four.

Returning for a second viewing:

See the award winning film “Peace by Chocolate” at Joseph Brant Museum. After the bombing of his father’s chocolate factory, a charming young Syrian refugee struggles to settle into his new Canadian small-town life, caught between following his dream to become a doctor and preserving his family’s chocolate-making legacy, based on the internationally recognized true story. “A heartwarming tale of triumph over adversity” – Chris Knight, National Post
Tickets are $15/adult, $12/children (12 and under) and include admission to the galleries. Peace by Chocolate merchandise will be available in the Gift Shop for purchase. Doors open at 6pm to view the special exhibition “Refuge Canada”. Film begins at 7pm, 96 minutes long. Seating is limited,

Return to the Front page

The Season is now upon us: Festival of Lights at Spencer Smith & 8th Annual Christmas Tree event at BPAC

By Staff

November 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON

Festival of Lights sponsored by Burlington Hydro will be in place on

This holiday season, Burlington is set to dazzle with a lineup of festive events, headlined by the annual Festival of Lights. Starting on November 29, the Festival of Lights will illuminate Spencer Smith Park along Burlington’s scenic waterfront. This cherished event features a variety of themed light displays, transforming the park into a winter wonderland for families and visitors alike through January 8, 2025.

Trees sponsored by local business people and organizations will decorate the lobby and mezzanines spaces at the Performing Arts Centre.

Additional holiday festivities include the Burlington Performing Arts Centre’s 8th Annual Festival of Trees, running from November 20 to December 12. The Centre’s lobby will showcase creatively decorated trees, adding a touch of festive spirit to the downtown area. Burlington’s holiday events also include markets, visits with Santa, and cultural performances, offering a variety of ways to celebrate the season in the heart of the city.

And then the Santa Clause parade on Sunday, December 1, 2024 at 2:00 pm.

Burlington Teen Tour Band colour party kept the flags flying as they escorted Santa and his sleight through the streets of the city in 2019.

Return to the Front page

The 'Best of Mary' to be performed by the Burlington Civic Chorale - November 28th

By Pepper Parr

November 8th, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Burlington Civic Chorale will be performing at St. Christophers Anglican Church on November 23rd.

The Chorale was founded in 1994 through the collaboration of Dr. Gary Fisher and Mary Jane Price, former organist and director at St Christopher’s Anglican Church, Burlington Ontario, the Burlington Civic Chorale (BCC) has brought outstanding choral music to Burlington, Hamilton and surrounding areas for over 25 years.

The BCC was honoured to commission for their twenty-fifth anniversary concert, 17 November 2018, Faith in Peace, a work by Canadian composer, Mark Sirett with  lyrics woven from the texts of former Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson’s 1957 Nobel Peace prize speech.

Part of the Civic Chorale in practice

Through its performances the BCC delights audiences with powerful choral music experiences with repertoire encompassing classical music from the 16th century to the present; folksongs; opera choruses and vocal jazz.

Their mission is to contribute to the cultural life of Burlington, Hamilton and surrounding areas through regular, high calibre performances of a broad repertoire of choral music

To be a choral representative for the city of Burlington

To provide the highest level of choral experience to our membership

To stimulate an appreciation for the finest in choral music from all periods of music history

What is it like to sing with them? Let the singers tell you!

“The BCC Singers have been part of my life for nearly 30 years.  I have found new friendships and gained a greater love and appreciation for music.  During times in life when one needs mental and moral support, singing takes me to a higher place.”

“The Burlington Civic Chorale is an amateur chamber choir of adults from Burlington and neighbouring communities.  We come from various walks of life, but have found one another through our shared love of music.  We are proud to have sung for our   audiences for over 25 years!”

I’ve had the pleasure and good fortune to attend two of their events.  Try and add this to the events you want to attend.

Do you have a good voice?  The Chorale welcomes new members.  Click HERE if you think this might be something for you

Return to the Front page

A Night At Ireland House - something every Burlington citizen should experience at least once

By Staff

November 7th, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Step back in time and celebrate the holidays during “A Night At Ireland House.”

All the food was made on the premises using recipes from the period of time the Ireland Farm house was built.

Guests will spend the evening sampling traditional Victorian foods served from the hearth and woodstove while touring the historic house. There will also be the opportunity to sip local wine and craft beer along the way while listening to carolers and roasting chestnuts on an open fire.

There are two time slots available to book, 6pm & 7:30pm. Tickets are $57/person ($54/members) and must be purchased in advance. Please dress for the weather as a portion of your experience will take place outdoors. Ticket includes wine and beer sampling, food sampling, and historic home tour. This is a 19+ event.

Get tickets HERE

Space is limited – so get your order in before they fill up – which they usually do.

 

 

Return to the Front page

Port Nelson United to hold Mistletoe Mart November 9th

By Staff

October26th, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

 

It’s a little early.  I thought promoting Christmas events didn’t begin until Halloween was behind us.

The folks at Port Nelson United Church see it differently.

Return to the Front page

A Burlington Green Take Action Day - Saturday the 19th

By Staff

October 14th, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Don’t miss the October 19th Take Action Day.

Join BurlingtonGreen and our event partners at the Burlington Centre (mall) on Saturday, October 19th from 10 am to 4 pm for this FREE event featuring a variety of opportunities to take ACTION for the environment.

Return to the Front page

LEGACY: A concert in support of the Downie-Wenjack Fund

By Staff

October 9th, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

 

A simple one name word – Downie tells what the event is about

Gord Downie on stage

An event at the Performing Arts Centre on Thursday, October 17, 2024 – 8:00 PM  to celebrate the work that Gord Downie in his final days, shining a light on reconciliation with Canada’s First Nations, Métis and Inuit people.

Performing their own versions of your favourite Gord Downie and Tragically Hip songs as well as their own original music, these artists will join in our collective reconciliation journey to promote awareness, education, and thoughtful action.

THE POETS: The Poets are a Tragically Hip tribute band that is based in Moose Factory / Moosonee in northern Ontario.

The Poets are joined by Walking Through the Fire, a group that brings the magic of collaboration to the stage, with award-winning First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists from across Turtle Island joined by Billboard charting/6x CFMA winners Sultans of String!

The event is a concert in support of the Downie-Wenjack Fun

Buy Tickets HERE

 

 

 

Return to the Front page

Truth and Reconciliation Day in Burlington on September 30th, 2024

By Pepper Parr

October 1st, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

 

It was early evening.  The weather was great.

The crowd grey to about 100 people.

Around 100 people had gathered at the Pavilion in Spencer Smith Park to take part in a Truth and Reconciliation Day event.

The majority wore the Orange T-shirts that had the Every Child Matters in bold letters on the front.

A few Indigenous women spoke – some drumming took place there was some singing before the group headed to the Beachway in a parade along the Promenade.

An Indigenous woman sing and drumming during the ceremonial parts of the event.

I was expecting more.  There were no male speakers.  The women told of their experiences with Residential schools.  Is there a single person who is not by now fully aware of what was done to these people?

And are there very many people fully aware of what we are still doing to these people ?

Lydia – one of the few young people at the event. Literally no Indigenous people that I could see at the event.

Lydia – getting restless.

The chemicals that were dumped in the Grassy Narrows waters; the hundreds of communities that still do not have potable water – what they drink has to be transported into their communities.

How many thousands of people have to live in sub-standard housing where mould is a constant problem ?

They call themselves First Nation people and they are – but we don’t even treat them as citizens.

I expected more of what took place at Spencer Smith Park on a pleasant evening.

I wasn’t quite sure what it was we were celebrating.

Indigenous art was displayed throughout Spencer Smith Park.

Return to the Front page

Culture Days activities taking place through out the city.

By Staff

September 26th, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Every year, our local artist and community groups come together for Culture Days without fail. To celebrate the amazing talent of local artists, the public art program has commissioned 20 Burlington writers and artists to showcase their work at The Beachway. Residents will be able to enjoy these pieces during the Culture Days celebration from Sept. 20 to Oct. 13, 2024 along the Beachway path.  The City of Burlington is proud to be a part of this initiative that aims to raise awareness, provide accessibility and encourage participation in the arts and cultural life of Burlington.

Participating Artists:

  • Short descriptions of work done by local artists spread out along the Beachway.

    Alexandra Basekic

  • Amal Ahmed Albaz
  • Angelica Lamoureux
  • Brunna Fanticelli de Moura
  • Candice Sheehan
  • Craig Brown
  • Danielle Izzard
  • Elena Espinoza
  • Elizabeth Walker
  • Frank Myers
  • Hayley Verrall
  • Mary Lynn Futers
  • Nikki Rottenberg
  • Nitin Narula
  • Pei Yuan Li
  • Rebecca Remme
  • Samantha Le Grand
  • Stephie Leitch
  • Teresa Seaton
  • Vanessa Cress Lokos

 

The Performing Arts Centre is offering a full day of free and accessible community programming.

Saturday – the 28th from noon to 4:00 pm

The public is invited to enjoy free coffee and tea while discussing what Burlington Arts Organizations have to offer. Organizations we have on site are:

Burlington Symphony will be playing for part of the afternoon.

Burlington Student Theatre
Burlington Symphony Orchestra (BSO)
Burlington New Millenium Orchestra (BNMO)
Burlington Footnotes
Southern Ontario Lyric Opera (SOLO)
Mattson & Company Dancers
Halton Black History Awareness Society (HBHAS)
Redleaf Cultural Integration (RCI)
ONE Burlington
Tyrsa Ukranian Dance School

Backstage tours available every 30 minutes starting at noon.

Return to the Front page

Hundreds turn up for the 44th annual Terry Fox Run for Cancer Research

By Pepper Parr

September 15th, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The weather was as good as it was going to get. The breeze off the lake made it rather pleasant.

There were hundreds, hundreds of people milling about and getting read to do their 5k walks or runs.

The day went off without a hitch – no one that I was aware of needed medical help.

Hundreds head west to the canal – carrying their thoughts with them.

There was plenty of flavoured and fruit and snacks for those that needed an energy boost.

There was energy bursting out all over the place.

The “warm up ladies kept things moving at a healthy pace.

Two women, I call them the “warm up” ladies.  They shared the microphone and kept people informed and at the same time kept things moving.

People registered and took their turns when the kind of walk or run they were doing was going to take place was up.

The walk was from the rear of the Waterfront Hotel westward to the canal and back to the hotel.

From there people went to the picture stand where groups got to make up their sign:  Team MVP or whatever the group was.  Numerous families were out as Teams.

Jeanette is the Run house photographer

Then the group picture was taken.

Each Team had sponsors who paid an amount for every km walked.

Some of the Teams were walking months before the actual Terry Fox Run for Cancer Research – for make no mistake about it – this event was to raise funds for cancer research and for individuals and families to remember people they had lost.

No word yet on exactly how many people ran or walked – we don’t know yet how much was raised.

The group that made the event happen is large – we will pull together a follow up report later in the month.

For today – enjoy the pictures of those that took part.

One gentleman was in the walk for the 44th time – he has run every race since that first in 1980.

The “warm up ladies” made numerous mentions of next year being the 45th.  Expect the crowds to be as good.

Imagine what Burlington will do on the 50th anniversary and wonder about how close we might be to actually curing cancer.

Dr. John Goffin; Associate Professor, Oncology, Faculty of Health Sciences.

We know now that if caught early enough cancer can be beaten.  Much of the credit goes to the medical practitioners and the scientists who do the research that has gotten us to where we are; additional funds were raised today to pay for more research.

Dozens and dozens of young people worked at different tasks. This young man handed out fruit and snacks to people.

The Run has always been a family event; from those in strollers to those old enough to take on some of the work that has to be done.

The Run isn’t just an occasion to raise funds.  For many it is an opportunity to pause and take the time to remember those who were lost. There is a Remembrance board that people write a note on and a sticker that is given to people who want to name the person they lost and put it on their T shirt or on a stroller.

There will be more tomorrow morning.

Related news story:

We remember Terry Fox and work to reach the goal he was unable to reach

 

 

 

 

 

 

Return to the Front page

Fourth Annual Food for Feedback - Central Park - Noon to 4:00 pm

By Staff

September 14th, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The weather looks like it is going to hold.

The city’s Food for Feedback event takes place today – there will be five Food Trucks in place and about 35 different stations where you can talk to staff from different departments about your concerns; ask questions and satisfy yourself that you have a clear understanding of what is happening.

This is your opportunity to talk to the people that write the reports and provide the options to council on the choices they have on the different decisions and developments before them.

It’s your government – you are paying the people that will be at Central Park:  Noon to 4:00 pm.  Mayor Meed Ward will be on hand – and some of the Council members.

Related news story:

Food for Feedback gets a bumpy ride

Return to the Front page

We salute people like that – and be grateful that they are among us.

By Pepper Parr

September 12th, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

 

As long as there is a Terry Fox Run for Cancer Research there should be a Team Casey taking part.

And there will be this year – with a bit of a difference.

You had to know him – you had to spend time with him – and you were always better for it. A true champion – taken from us far too early. Bryna, pictured below, is doing what he would have wished – take care of others. Theirs was a shared love that could be appreciated and envied.

In previous years, it was family and friends getting together to do the run in support of the Terry Fox Foundation, of which Team Casey was a major part.  Every year Casey would be there with his daughter on his shoulders and wife Bryna alongside wearing the Team T-shirt.

There will still be a  Team Casey but under the new formal name of Team Casey Support Network, which is the name of a not-for-profit that Bryna Casey created to support families dealing with critical illness.

The children have grown up and have lives of their own. Mom will be running – and hopefully the kids will be there with her.

Casey Cosgrove often had a couple of hundred people walking with him. In this photograph his daughter is at his side with his niece on his shoulders.

Bryna Cosgrove.

There is something incredible about the human spirit.  To deal with the loss, the personal grief and getting your kids through it – and in time being able to help others deal with what you had to deal with.

We salute people like that – and be grateful that they are among us.

Return to the Front page

Free Flix at Cineplex on the 1th

By Staff

September 7th, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

 

On September 14, Cineplex invites families across Canada to the 12th annual Cineplex Community Day in support of BGC Canada. Enjoy free Cineplex screenings of family-friendly films, discounted concessions, free gaming at the Rec Room and Playdium, and for the first time, free XSCAPE arcade gaming in select theatres!

Event Details:

  • When: Saturday, September 14, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
  • Where: Participating Cineplex Theatres, XSCAPE arcades, The Rec Room, and Playdium locations across Canada.
  • What: Free movies, gaming and discounted concessions across participating locations.
  • How to get tickets: 
  • Tickets are also available in-theatre beginning September 4.

For fulsome details and timing, please see a FAQ document here and press release linked here.  Looking forward to hearing from you.

Return to the Front page

79th anniversary of Battle of Britain Day - Ted Barris will speak on Battle of Britain: Canadian Airmen In Their Finest Hour.

By Staff

August 25th, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

September 15, 2024 marks the 79th anniversary of Battle of Britain Day and to commemorate this historic day, author Ted Barris returns to the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum for a presentation on his latest book, Battle of Britain: Canadian Airmen In Their Finest Hour.

“Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few,” are Churchill’s words that set the 113 days of the Battle of Britain in the summer of 1940 apart from all others, as the greatest aerial battle in history. As the German Luftwaffe sought to destroy the Royal Air Force, gain air superiority, and invade the British Isles, Commonwealth fighter pilots scrambled from UK airfields day after day and flew Hurricane and Spitfire fighter aircraft to thwart Hitler’s plan.

They won, but paid dearly.

In his 22nd book of non-fiction, Ted Barris has assembled unknown stories of Canadian airmen, ground crew, as well as engineers, aeronautical designers, medical officers and civilians, who answered the call and turned back the very real threat of Nazi invasion. You know the outcome of the Battle of Britain, but now you’ll meet the Canadians who helped secure victory in the first last-stand of World War II.

September 15, 2024   –  Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum – Time: 1:00 pm

Admission: Presentation is FREE with admission. Regular admission rates are Adult (18 – 64) $16, Senior (65+) $14, Student (13 – 17) $14, Youth (6 – 12) $11. Free admission for museum members and children 5 & under.

After Ted’s presentation, he will be available for a meet-and-greet. Books will be available for sale.

To purchase book in advance:

 

 

Return to the Front page

Learn marketing and media tips needed to get your audiences to take notice during Culture Days

By Staff

August 16th, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Attracting people to your cultural event is not easy.

Social media is great – providing you know how to use it to your advantage.

There are people who can help.

Registration link is show below.

Culture Days Ontario wants you to take part in their Culture Days event.  Tune in on Thursday, August 29th, at 2pm ET. And learn the marketing and media tips you need to get your audiences to take notice and action during Culture Days.

Media expert Mercedes Blackwood will share practical tips on planning and running marketing campaigns. As well as how to work with the Media to help gain widespread reach for your arts and culture events.

We will also be joined by Ontario Culture Days’ Partnerships & Programs Manager, Kaitlyn Patience. She will share tips on connecting with and involving your local community, partners, and collaborators in your event promotion efforts!

Join us to learn more about how to use the free Culture Days marketing tools, templates and resources available to help you:

  • Increase attendance to your events.
  • Increase awareness of your organization, group, business, or artistic practice.
  • Create lasting audience connections and build year-round engagement.

This session will be presented in English with English captions available. A recording with French captions will be available shortly after the event. If you have specific questions or requests you would like addressed, please email us at info@culturedays.ca

Be the first to know; stay connected with your regional offices for updates, opportunities, and all-things Culture Days:

Register

 

 

Return to the Front page