 By Staff
May 27th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
June is the Month of Play – Get Outside and Play.
That is the message coming out of city hall.
Heard in households across the city are the words: “ Can we go outside and play”
The terribly mixed messages coming from the province are being ignored. In Burlington most of the rules are being followed – some more responsibly than others.
Vaccination rates are climbing creating the sense that we are almost out of this aren’t we?
To kick off June, Mayor Meed Ward has proclaimed June as the Month of Play and the City of Burlington is encouraging residents to get outside, play, have fun, stay safe and be active with a variety of options.
 First piece of summer cake at LaSalle Park Straight from the desk of the Mayor: “June is the time of year where the City’s parks, trails, outdoor pools, splash pads and events come to life. Being active is a powerful way for residents to maintain or improve mental and physical health. As we celebrate June as the Month of Play, we encouraged residents to get active indoors or outdoors and enjoy options the City offers, safely.”
Get Outside and Play Challenge
The Get Outside and Play Challenge begins on June 1 and continues until June 30. The Challenge is a fun way to learn more about Burlington while completing the activities.
• Download the app from burlington.ca/playoutside
• Search for the Get Outside and Play Challenge (Game code ZDB8GE)
• Create login as a family or a group
Let’s Fly a Kite – Presented by the Rocca Sisters Team
Let’s fly a kite on Father’s Day, June 20.
Together, let’s celebrate play and fill the sky with colour starting Father’s Day, June 20. This June, the City will be offering a limited supply of FREE Kite Kits to Burlington residents. Registration is required and will open on June 7, 2021. Learn more at burlington.ca/kitefestival.
 Picnics – with the weather we are having – great idea. Recreation and Parks Month
June is also Recreation and Parks Month, so Parks and Recreation Ontario has provided a list of fun activities for everyone.
Splash Pads and City Outdoor Pools
The City has 9 splash pads, including a new splash pad location, Brant Hills Park Splash Pad 2300 Duncaster Dr. All splash pads are now open. For a list of locations, visit burlington.ca/outdoorplay.
LaSalle Splash Park and the outdoor pools, Mountainside Outdoor Pool and Splash Park and Nelson Pool and Splash Park are expected to open June 14, also pending Provincial regulations and public health restrictions.
Learn more at burlington.ca/waterplay.
Tim Hortons Free Summer Swimming
 There are always swimming pools. Check out the available programs and register for a spot. Tim Hortons Free Swims will be offered from June 19 to Sept. 5, 2021, pending Provincial regulations and public health restrictions. Registration will be required. Learn more at Burlington.ca/timsfreeswims.
Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture might be beginning to think that he is close to being able to operate a normal recreation program and comes close to bursting when he says: “June is the month of play is a big kick-off to the summer. Everyone is eager to get outside and play, to explore our city and we’ve got so many great opportunities for families, individuals and people of all abilities.”
Links and Resources
burlington.ca/timsfreeswims
burlington.ca/waterplay
burlington.ca/playoutside
burlington.ca/kitefestival
 By Staff
May 25th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Have you ever wondered how organizations manage to get corporate sponsorship for their events?
Festivals Ontario is holding a virtual event that will feature Judy Haber, a woman considered best in class in the Sponsorship industry. Judy has been selling Corporate Sponsorship and Naming Rights for the past 25 years.
 Judy was instrumental in packaging and selling events that included The Shoppers Drug Mart Toronto Marathon, The Bay Street Rat Race, and over the last 10 years has spearheaded the B&O Yorkville Run for Charities. Since inception, the B&O Yorkville Run for Charities has raised millions of dollars for local not for profit groups, with sponsorship support from companies that included New Balance, Lexus, Equinox, Camrost Felcorp, Hill Street Beverages, Whole Foods, and other like brands.
The events have consistently covered their operating expense with Corporate Sponsorship.
Join Judy on Thursday, May 27 at 1:00pm for an hour of insight on the current landscape of Sponsors, how to package and sell community events, and answers to your specific question.
 Send these to debbie@festivalsandeventsontario.ca by tomorrow (Wednesday) at 12 noon.
Click on the link below to register for free, reserve your space, and get the ZOOM link.
 By Staff
May 21st, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
On Tuesday, May 25, the City of Burlington will be using a low-flying helicopter to apply a bio-pesticide over four wooded areas to control gypsy moth populations. The gypsy moths eat the leaves of trees, causing significant defoliation and potential long-term impact to the City’s urban forest.
 This moth will eat your tree bare Application of the pesticide will be completed between 5 and 7:30 a.m. and is expected to take 5-10 minutes for each park.
The areas identified for spraying include:
- City View Park
- Kilbride Park
- LaSalle Park
- Zimmerman Park
City staff will be stopping traffic on roads nearest the park while the helicopter is spraying. The road closure will take 15 minutes or less.
 The aerial spraying is being done as safely as possible. An interactive map is available on burlington.ca/gypsymoth that allows residents to enter an address so they can see where the address is in relation to the spray areas.
The second spray date will be posted on the City’s Twitter and Facebook accounts @CityBurlington and online at burlington.ca/gypsymoth at least 48-hours before the spraying.
 Steve Robinson Forestry Manager Steve Robinson, Manager of Urban Forestry explains: “The weather forecast shows good conditions for the aerial spraying and the gypsy moth larva are at the right stage in their development for the treatment to have maximum impact on them. A successful reduction in their number will help protect the health of our trees and the environment which is a win for everyone.”
 By Staff
May 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The Aldershot Village BIA outdoor Vendor Markets are running for the 2021 season!
Spots are limited so apply soon for this summer / fall season.
 The markets will take place on four Saturdays 9am to 1pm: July 17th, Aug 21st, Sept 18th & Oct 9th
Interested?
Head to the BIA website for the application and all the details.
http://aldershotbia.com/call-for-market-vendors/
Email: events@aldershotbia.com for more detail
 By Staff
May 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
If you are in need of food support, please call us or email before Thursday this week so that we can arrange for delivery on Friday. If you need your delivery for Thursday evening then please contact us by Wednesday this week.
 We hope you all enjoy a nice Victoria Day long weekend and have a chance to get outside and enjoy this wonderful warm sunny weather. Great for our mental health!
If you are in need or know of someone who could use our help, PLEASE have them email us at info@burlingtonfoodbank.ca or call 905-637-2273 to make arrangements to have food dropped at their door or make arrangements to pick it up through our curb-side pickup option. If you are a resident in Burlington, we are all here to help. Don’t struggle – give us a call.
The people who handle the food intake and then pack the food packages that go out to homes in Burlington need a break and it is a public holiday.
 By Staff
May 17th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
How well did Burlingtonians behave on Sunday when the weather was about as good as it gets this time of year?
The Parks Culture and Community Department decided not to have staff in the parks keeping an eye on people – looks as if it wasn’t needed.
The pictures that follow are worth a thousand words.
 Pictures like this get put on post cards.
 Watching the geese at the LaSalle Marina.  Feeding the chipmunks at RBG – these are the best fed creatures in the city.  This is typical Burlington – spending some time at one of the few places in the city that deserves to be called iconic  This is what social distancing is all about. Now if we can get this across to the younger set – we just might have a complete summer.
By Staff
May 16th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
 Facing the lake and tempting the waves on bright sunny day. What a beautiful day it was!
 Not many of these people chose to wear masks. Families were out enjoying the weather; the kids were playing and there was a gentleman tempting the waves with his flute.
Sunday is going to be just as big a blessing.
Enjoy what our staff photographer recorded.
City staff are in a bit of a holding pattern, waiting for direction from the province as to what can be opened up and when.
We know that there won’t be a traditional Sound of Music event; they are working up a program – nothing yet on what they are going to be able to do.
 Soaking up the sunshine out by the Skyway with a breeze coming in off the Hamilton Harbour. Ribfest might be able to open up – if the new infection numbers are low enough.
 Everyone wanted to be on the turnstile.
 By Staff
May 3rd, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
No one is certain as to when the hockey season will start – but the Burlington Cougars are going ahead with their Player Prospect Camp.
The rules will be a little different: Covid19 protocols are in place and will be strictly adhered to.
 Showing the coaching staff what you have going for you when the skates are laced up. The Player Prospect program has been a great success in recent years helping players to develop and showcase their on-ice skills with the assistance of the Burlington Cougars coaching staff.
Registration for the 2021 camp will be on a first-come first-serve basis if roster spots become limited due to COVID-19 guidelines. If registration(s) occur and you are unable to attend due to these circumstances and/or if we are limited in our capacities due to these guidelines, a 100% refund will be issued.
Please contact us directly if you have any specific questions or concerns. The health and safety of our players, coaches, staff and community are of the utmost importance to the Burlington Cougars organization and we are utilizing all resources at our disposal to be align with these strictures.
Summer 2021 Program Details
Friday, June 11, 2021: 5:00pm – 7:00pm
Saturday, June 12, 2021: 10:00am – 4:00pm
Sunday, June 13, 2021: 11:00am – 12:30pm
All sessions will take place at Appleby Ice Centre in Burlington (1201 Appleby Line, Burlington, ON)
Registration
We are currently accepting registration and payment for our 2021 Prospect Camp. Please complete the forms below to initiate your registration. All registrants must complete the
Click here to complete the COVID-19 Questionnaire.
This form must be completed by each player prior to admission, participants will have to complete this questionnaire each day.
Contact Burlington Cougars Head Coach and General Manager, Mark Jooris, for more information regarding the 2021 Burlington Cougars Prospect Camp – (905) 467-9119.
markjoorisburlingtoncougars@gmail.com
COST: Players – $367.25 ($325+HST)
Payment for Burlington Cougars Prospect Camp 2021 can be made by cheque or e-transfer. Cheques can be made payable to ‘Burlington Cougars.’ E-transfer payments can be sent to BurlingtonCougarsOJDL@gmail.com. You will receive a confirmation email once we process your payment.
By Staff
April 28th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Watching the Cherry Blossoms Bloom.
The City of Burlington’s Mundialization Committee invites residents to celebrate spring and the city’s friendship with its twin cities, Apeldoorn, the Netherlands and Itabashi, Japan.
To help limit the spread of COVID-19 and following the current provincial Stay-at-Home order, all celebrations will be held virtually this year.
 These trees have been in place for years: each spring their blossoms come out first in pink and then change to white and then fall to the ground. Each spring the hope, the beauty and the relationship with the people of Japan who gave us the trees is renewed. Virtual Sakura Festival
This year’s virtual Sakura Festival commemorates Burlington’s 32-year twin-city friendship with Itabashi, Japan and includes:
• Live photo stream of cherry blossoms: Follow the progress of the Japanese cherry blossoms on the Sakura trees in Spencer Smith Park as they get ready to burst into bloom over the coming weeks, with a live photo stream available on burlington.ca/CherryBlossoms.
Through the photo stream, residents can view new photos of the trees, taken every day, or select the time lapse feature to see the progression of the blooms to date.
• Videos celebrating Japanese culture: Between May 5 – 12, follow the City’s social media channels, @cityburlington on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, for videos featuring traditional Japanese performances in music, dance and more.
Canada Netherlands Day
This year’s virtual celebration recognizes the 76th anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands by the Canadian Armed Forces and the 16th anniversary of Burlington’s twinning with the City of Apeldoorn.
• May 5 – Follow the City’s social media channels, @cityburlington on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, to see two videos featuring distinguished guests, and musical performances from groups in Apeldoorn and Burlington. Highlights include a speaker who shares his experiences as a small boy at the end of World War II, and a unique performance by elementary school students from Trinity Christian School in Burlington.
 Mayor Marianne Meed Ward leads the parade in Itabashi, Japan, with city manager (white shirt center) Tim Commisso following and showing fine form. Itabashi, Japan
Mayor Marianne Meed Ward had this to say: “The cherry blossoms of the Sakura trees in Spencer Smith Park are one of our city’s most picturesque landmarks our community, and visitors, look forward to every year.
This year, as we do our part to stay home and limit outdoor gatherings to members of the same household, this virtual experience means that residents can enjoy these beautiful pink blooms no matter where there are. I’m also looking forward to commemorating an important milestone in Canada Netherlands Day marking the 76th anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands by Canadian Armed Forces – arguably the birth of the deep connection and friendship between our two nations.
We are very fortunate in Burlington to have formed strong friendships with our twin cities – Itabashi, Japan and Apeldoorn, the Netherlands — and I thank our Mundialization Committee for coordinating this year’s virtual events in honour of these important and special relationships.”
By Staff
April 28th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Is that light at the end of the tunnel?
The small buds on the trees are turning into leaves; the Farmer’s Market has announced they are opening in the middle of May.
And now the city Parks and Recreation department has announced that registrations for summer camps will open on May 1st.
This is progress.
The City is hopeful that Summer Camps and a new Park Play program will be able to run, with registration for both opening May 1, 2021 at 9 a.m. As always, any City-run program will be subject to the Provincial and public health regulations and could be cancelled as we continue to respond to this pandemic.
To help reduce the spread of COVID-19, summer programs will meet health regulations designed in consultation with Halton Region Public Health and in alignment with provincial health regulations. Precautions include lower ratios of participant to staff and capacity, physical distancing, mandatory health screening and enhanced facility cleaning.
 No one within six feet. Park Play Program
The Park Play program is for children and youth ages 8 to 14 years and includes fun, active and creative games run by City staff in four local parks: Iroquois Park, Mohawk Park, Cavendish Park and Leighland Park. The program will run July 19 to Aug. 13, 2021.
The participants may choose not to stay the entire time, they can leave and go home for lunch and come back or bring their lunch to the park to eat. Sign in and out procedures are the same as Drop- in programs, but only registered participants are permitted to participate with the group.
Summer Camp
Similar to 2020 summer camps for youth ages 4 to 16 years, this year’s program will offer outdoor and physical activities, active and quiet games, arts and crafts, and nature-based activities. These camps are inclusive for all participants and feature additional staff for a smaller camper to leader ratios to help maintain physical distancing in camp and ensure safe supervision of campers.
Summer Camps include:
• SNAP 4 to 10 years old
• Youth 9 to 14 years old
• Junior Leadership 12 to 14 years old
• Leaders in Training for 14 old 16 years old
• Music Camp for 7 to 10 years old
• Student Theatre:
o Arts Camp for 6 to 15 years old
o Theatre Specialty Camps for 9 to 15 years old
All programs have spaces for Individuals with Disabilities within each camp group.
To register or for more information, visit burlington.ca/summer.
Recreation Fee Assistance
Recreation Fee Assistance is funding made available to individuals or families who need help to pay for City of Burlington recreational programs.
For more information or to apply, visit burlington.ca/feeassistance. Information available by telephone – call 905-335-7600, ext. 8501 to leave a voice mail.
 Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, community and Culture said: “Last summer’s camp programs went very well and we’re hoping to build on that success for this year. The new Park Play program is not a day camp but will offer many of the same fun games and activities that people of all abilities can participate in. ”
Links and Resources
www.burlington.ca/summer
www.burlington.ca/feeassistance
 By Staff
April 28th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Emergency Preparedness Week (EPW) is an annual Canada-wide initiative encouraging all Canadians to take actions to be better prepared to protect themselves and their families during emergencies.
In line with the pressures of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and this year’s EPW theme of Emergency Preparedness: Be Ready for Anything, the City of Burlington is launching the first of multiple screenings of the film The Great Disconnect.
Residents can sign up for the free May 4 or 6 virtual screenings of The Great Disconnect which will include a panel discussion with local leaders and film crew members.
Link to the Eventbrite site to register: CLICK HERE
 Two screening: one during the day and a second in the evening. About the film
The Great Disconnect uncovers why, in a world seemingly more connected than ever before, people are feeling more and more socially isolated – and the true cost this has on our lives and communities. It was written, directed and produced by passionate people wanting to make a difference in the lives of those who live in their communities, neighbourhoods and abroad. Since its official launch in October 2019, the film has screened across Canada through multiple municipalities, non-profits and NGOs, and has been shown in ten countries across Europe. It has also been featured in over twelve independent film festivals, and in October 2020, the documentary won the award for Best Feature Film at the prominent Better Cities Film Festival. The judges’ panel included the famous architect Jan Gehl alongside other esteemed architects and urbanists.
 Acclaimed. Synopsis
Experts who were interviewed for The Great Disconnect, described our time as the “age of loneliness.” Despite Western advances in technology, living conditions, education and healthcare, we as a society, are isolating ourselves from one another and because of this, facing a health crisis that affects all ages, genders, races, and cultures. But how have we become so disconnected? And what can we do to change the status quo and fulfill our potential for health and well-being? Join wellness expert Tamer Soliman as he journeys through North American cities to meet with local citizens, community activists, and leading authorities on social, economic, and urban planning to discover the true factors that have profound and lasting impacts, not only on our health, but the health of the communities in which we live.
Virtual screenings
Residents can sign up for one of the free May virtual screenings on Eventbrite and take our quick survey to help inform the discussion with the panelists at Great Disconnect Survey.
Tuesday, May 4, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The panel will include:
- Tamer Soliman, Director, Producer and Co-Writer of The Great Disconnect
- Sarah Douglas, Writer and Story Editor of The Great Disconnect
- Lisa Crapsi, Recreation Coordinator for Neighbourhood Development, City of Burlington
- Susan Biggs, A/ Superintendent – #1 District |Milton|Halton Hills, Halton Regional Police service
Thursday, May 6, 6 to 8 p.m.
The panel will include:
- Tamer Soliman, Director, Producer and Co-Writer of The Great Disconnect
- Sarah Douglas, Writer and Story Editor of The Great Disconnect
- Steve Jones, Master Trainer, Mental Health Commission of Canada
- Karen Roche, Fire Chief, City of Burlington
- Lisa Crapsi, Recreation Coordinator for Neighbourhood Development, City of Burlington
- Sergeant Ryan Smith, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Halton Regional Police Service
- Beth Martin, Founder, Together Burlington
- Ryan Gallagher, Founder and Host, Mental Edge Lifestyle Podcast
This Emergency Preparedness Week event is an opportunity for community members to view this timely documentary that invites people to reflect on the relationships we have with those around us and raises the question: is it possible to overcome our modern culture of disconnectedness and rediscover how truly essential we are to one other?
In an emergency, residents may need to evacuate or stay in their homes for long periods of time. Everyone needs a kit with enough supplies to keep you and your family self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. Either build your own kit or buy an emergency kit online and in stores across Canada.
Amber Rushton, Community Emergency Management Coordinator explains the context in which the film is being screened: “With the pandemic impacts we have all experienced in our own way, social connectedness, other-centred action, and neighbourhood preparedness will help us recover and build our new normal as a community.
“Everyone has a role to play in an emergency and building community resilience and mental health readiness is critical in protecting ourselves and our loved ones. The City of Burlington is proud to provide this virtual viewing opportunity to residents to help shine a light on the importance of the health of our communities.”
 By Staff
April 27, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington will receive $59,700 from the Ontario Government’s Inclusive Community Grants program that will be used to install hearing loop systems in city recreation centres to help individuals with hearing aids and cochlear implants get clearer sound, participate more fully and enjoy their experiences in programs and activities.
As part of the Burlington Active Aging Plan, the City has expanded recreational programs for older adults and seniors across the city. As this segment of the population grows in Burlington so does the demand for recreational services. This initiative will help keep older adults and seniors active, healthy and engaged in the community and offer them recreation and social programs that will enrich their quality of life. These projects are planned for completion by March 31, 2022.
 4 million people in Canada have some degree of hearing loss. The Canadian Hard of Hearing Association estimates that 4 million people in Canada have some degree of hearing loss, which works out to almost 1 in 10 Canadians. Hearing aids are an effective solution to improving hearing quality. However, hearing aids are not always effective in all environments on their own. Induction loop systems (hearing loops) are a great way of improving sound quality for individuals wearing hearing aids or cochlear implants.
Many individuals in City programs rely on hearing aids. By installing hearing loops in City facilities, it will make it easier for these individuals to hear and have a more positive experience.
Hearing loops will be installed in areas including customer service counters, meeting rooms, multi-purpose program rooms and auditoriums in City facilities that host the majority of adult and senior programs. Initially, the City will focus on five community centres:
 Haber Recreational Centre is one of the locations for the hearing loops. The Burlington Seniors’ Centre, Tansley Woods Community Centre, Haber Community Centre, Mountainside Community Centre and Brant Hills Community Centre.
The next phase will look at customer service counters at various City pools.
Ward 4 Councillor, Shawna Stolte said: “As our older adult and senior population grows in Burlington, it’s important for the City of Burlington to invest in safe, accessible community spaces for individuals of all ages and abilities to enjoy.
“I am proud of my fellow council members for recognizing this need and investing City funding to augment this grant. This will allow the City to install hearing loops in as many facilities and spaces as possible to enhance the recreation experience for those in our community with hearing loss.”
 By Staff
April 26th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Coming up with something to do for Mom on Sunday May 9th will be a little more challenging this year.
It will be the second year in a row when the traditional visit can’t take place.
What are the options out there?
If Mom has a taste for quality tea in a different setting give some thought to the online Mother’s Day Victorian Tea and Treats.
Tickets are $30 and include a Victorian Dessert Trio (Victorian sponge cake, currant scones, lemon shortbread), three 20g samples of Monarch Tea Co. loose leaf tea, and a 45-minute tea tasting led by certified Tea Sommelier, Katie Cyr.
Tea and treat package pick-up is Saturday, May 8 between 11:00 am – 3:00 pm at Ireland House Museum.
The online portion of the event takes place from 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm on Sunday, May 9. It includes a hearth demonstration and a tour of the ladies’ parlour at Ireland House Museum.
Tickets can be ordered by clicking here
By Pepper Parr
April 24th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Food Bank managed to have 7 plots in the community Garden on Maple Avenue assigned to them.
They then had to find a volunteer who would oversee the operation of those 7 plots.
That volunteer would then have to recruit a volunteer crew to manage each of the plots.
 Sam LeGrand and Robin Bailey at the market garden site on Maple Avenue Robin Bailey, Executive Director of the Food Bank did the interviewing and felt he had the ideal volunteer – Samantha LeGrand, who prefers to be known as Sam.
The two of them did a short interview on-site where Sam asked for people to foster some of the seedlings she has – she has run out of space at her own dwelling.
 Sam LaGrand – Good Bank gardener If you think you could look after some of those seedlings please go to the Food Bank web site and register as a volunteer and then select the tab on the registration to do with Community Garden help.
In early May Sam will need volunteer help for planting, and then subsequently help for watering and weeding throughout the season. You can contact Sam at garden@burlingtonfoodbank.ca
Sam brings an eclectic education to the gardening she is going to supervise – she is the kind of gardener who gets her fingers dirty.
She was a student at OCAD, the Ontario College of Arts and Design where she studied drawing and painting – she has had a number of gallery showings. She was also a student at Western University where she studied astro-physics and creative writing.
She said she loved the job she has at the Children’s Place; retail was something she liked.
Gardening is as much a passion as it is working. Sam knows gardening – she has some ideas for the different designs she wants to use – high yield is one of her objectives.
The community gardens in Burlington – there are now seven of them – was the result of work done by Michelle Bennett and Amy Schnur when they approached city council in 2015 looking for support on an application they had made to the provincial government to create community gardens.
The province required municipal support for every grant they provided – at the time city council wasn’t all warm and fuzzy about the idea. They were reluctant to put up some real dollars.
Amy and Michelle weren’t prepared to walk away from the project – they convinced the Parks and Recreation department to put in the water service that was needed. From that point on community gardens were real – they sold out the day they were opened.
Related news stories
Community gardens a hit
How Burlington community gardens got started
By Staff
April 21st, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
 Halton District School Board – Supporting positive mental health and well-being. The Halton District School Board is hosting more than 15 Mental Health & Well-Being Information Sessions for parents/guardians, with the first session held on April 27 and others scheduled throughout the month of May. These sessions will cover specific topics based on feedback from parents/guardians through a survey sent earlier this year. Each will be led by a mental health expert in that area who will share their knowledge and provide helpful information and resources.
Session presenters will include HDSB staff and mental health experts from local community organizations including Reach Out Centre for Kids (ROCK), ADAPT, Danielle’s Place, National Eating Disorder Information Centre (NEDIC), Eat2Grow, CHM Therapy Services, Halton Support Services, Developmental Services of Ontario, Mental Health and Addiction Nurses, Roots Community Services, and Bayridge Counselling Centres.
To Register CLICK HERE
Session topics include:
• Healthy eating, body image, eating disorders
• Self-regulation and emotional well-being
• Substance use, vaping, online/video gaming
• Supporting children with learning disabilities
• Social isolation and connectedness for 2SLGBTQ+ youth
• Impact of COVID-19 and racism for Black identifying families
• Staying engaged during online learning
• Anxiety
• Psychiatric medications
Registration is required for these sessions as limited spots are available. Parents/guardians can register by completing the Mental Health & Well-Being Information Sessions Registration Form. Sessions will be held on Google Meet or Zoom (depending on the session) and registrants will be emailed a link to access the session. Sessions will not be recorded.
Parents/guardians will have the opportunity to submit questions when completing the registration form or during the session.
The Board’s new Mental Health & Well-Being webpage has information for parents/guardians and students on mental health, ways to support positive mental health and well-being and how to get additional support at school and in the community.
 By Tammy Fox
April 16th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
I find it beyond belief that we have been existing in this Twilight Zone of a pandemic for over an entire year now. COVID has, and continues to have, absolutely devastating effects on everyone – personally, professionally, economically, socially – you name it.
 Tammy Fox, Executive Director, Burlington Performing Arts Centre We invested a great deal of time, effort and funds in developing a sold COVID-safety plan for BPAC last summer so that by early fall we would be in a position to welcome back reduced-capacity audiences in the safest way possible. We increased our air filtration, purchased plexiglass screens and every type of PPE available.
We invested in a socially-distanced ticketing system and seating plans, as well as patron self-screening software. We thoroughly sanitize the venue at least three times daily. When we were finally permitted live audiences of up to 50 people for October and November we scrambled to put together an exciting ‘mini-season’ of incredible artists, like Tom Cochrane, Chantal Kreviazuk, The Spoons and more.
We sold out every performance and I watched as my technical staff’s eyes welled up with tears on our ‘opening night’, overcome with emotion at having the opportunity to finally return after 6 months of suspended operation to what it is that we all do best. To the industry that we love. And then just like that we were slammed back into the ‘red zone’ and the stage lights went dim once again.
Now we are once again in lockdown. We are struggling to understand why we are not permitted to support our community and the Canadian arts ecology when we all need it most, by at the very least offering livestream performances. A typical livestream production might involve 5 – 10 people, between staff and artists, carefully and safely socially distanced in our incredibly spacious venue – but no, the province has deemed that too risky.
Film shoots involving 100 cast and crew are ok. For a long while, allowing hundreds to cram into malls and big box stores was ok. But no livestreaming allowed! Once simply can’t help but feel that the notion of the arts being somehow superfluous, non-essential to the health and spirit of a community is now up in lights on the marquee for all to see. It’s a very scary time for our industry, which has been deemed ‘the hardest hit’. Our industry will be the very last permitted to return to full operations. Ours will take the longest to fully recover.
With that said, there is an incredible amount of heart and effort going into advocacy efforts for the live entertainment sector. Federal agencies are doing what they can to keep us sustainable until life can return to ‘normal’. I do believe that people are eager to return. I feel that people are now truly becoming aware of the cavernous gap left in our lives and in our communities when the performing arts go dark. You don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone – but absence will make the heart grow fonder!
 There will come a day when there will once again be a full house At present, I think that the best that we can hope for is offer a series of performances outdoors on our Plaza this summer. I hope to see us being permitted to operate at a percentage of capacity by the fall. At some point someone has to do the math and see that 250 patrons spread out across a 718-seat venue is safer than 50 people crammed into a Walmart check-out line.
 An outdoor performance on the plaza where the best seats were on a marble bench. In the meantime, we are constantly trying to find ways to support our staff, our patrons and our local artists and arts organizations and to keep our volunteers informed and engaged. We have been working with the HDSB by offering students a virtual education series, and we are developing an artist residency program that will see us offering our space and services to local artists. And mostly, we are working towards remaining optimistic and keeping the faith that we will hear that applause again one day soon. It will happen.
Because the show must go on!
Tammy Fox is the Executive Director of the Burlington Performing Arts Centre
By Staff
April 5th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
They have been doing it for 25 years – providing lush hanging baskets of flowers.
The event is part of a fund raiser where everyone wins. St. Matthews Church in Aldershot takes great pleasure in making these plants available.
A bright spot in a not so bright situation.
They go quite quickly. Get your order
By Staff
April 1st, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
City Hall is slowly slipping into election mode.
They have started the process by putting out a survey to get a sense as to what people want in the way of information and instructions when a municipal election takes place.
 With an average voter turnout of 37% over the past three years one could venture to say – not very much – they don’t seem to care all that much.
In preparation for the upcoming 2022 municipal election, the City of Burlington is asking residents for their input on a number of election-related topics. Share your input on things like voting methods, election signage, voter turnout and more.
Your feedback will be used to inform a report to Burlington City Council about preparation activities for the 2022 municipal election which will take place on Oct. 24, 2022.
Couple of interesting ideas are floated in the survey – make a point of running through it – nothing difficult.
They ask how you feel about establishing a Campaign Contribution Rebate Program.
Should the City post candidate information, including their photos and responses to a standard community questionnaire on the City’s website to support public engagement for the 2022 municipal election?
The survey asks residents for feedback on various election matters, including:
Ideas to increase voter turnout
Suggestions for topics and panelists at an upcoming election open house
Voting methods
Using corporate resources in an election year
Rebates for campaign contributions
The management of election signs
The survey will be open until 11:59 p.m. on April 23, 2021.
Link to the survey is HERE
By Staff
March 29th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
City of Burlington administrative services will be closed for Good Friday, on Friday, April 2, and Easter Monday, on Monday, April 5.
For a list of which City services and facilities are available on the Easter holiday weekend, please see the summary below or visit burlington.ca
The information provided below is accurate as of March 29, 2021. In the event of any changes made to current COVID-19 public health measures by the Province of Ontario, please visit burlington.ca/coronavirus for potential impacts to City services and programs.
Residents can also stay informed about city news on our social media channels: @cityburlington on Twitter and facebook.com/cityburlington.
City Service Holiday Closure Information
 You are going to have to nurse the cat yourself. Animal Services
The Animal Shelter at 2424 Industrial St. remains closed to the public due to COVID-19.
To report an animal control-related emergency, call 905-335-3030 or visit www.burlington.ca/animal.
Burlington Transit will operate a Sunday schedule on Good Friday. For real-time bus information and schedules visit myride.burlingtontransit.ca.
The downtown terminal at 430 John St. and Specialized Dispatch will be closed on Friday, April 2.
City Hall The Service Burlington counter at City Hall (426 Brant St.), will be closed to all appointments and walk-in service on Friday, April 2 and Monday, April 5.
Many service payments are available online at burlington.ca/onlineservices.
Halton Court Services – Provincial Offences Office Court administration counter services at 4085 Palladium Way will be closed on Friday April 2, 2020 and Monday April 5, 2021.
With the exception of the Easter closure, telephone payments are available at 905-637-1274, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.
All in-person services are available from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday. Many services are also available by email at burlingtoncourt@burlington.ca or online at Halton Court Services
Parking Free parking is available downtown, on the street, in municipal lots and in the parking garage (414 Locust St.) on weekends and holidays, including Good Friday and Easter Monday.
NOTE: The Waterfront parking lots (east and west) do not provide free parking on statutory holidays.
Parking exemptions are required to park overnight on city streets and for longer than five hours. Visit burlington.ca/parkingexemptions
Recreation Programs and Facilities Drop-In Recreation Activities
All users must pre-register and complete the online COVID-19 screening at burlington.ca/screening. Registration opens 25 hours in advance of program start times. To view program times, visit burlington.ca/dropinandplay
 Centennial pool Swimming
• Lap swimming and recreational swimming are available at Tansley Woods Community Centre (1996 Itabashi Way) and Centennial Pool (5151 New St.)
Skating
• Recreational skating is available at Appleby Ice Centre (1201 Appleby Line) and Mountainside Arena (2205 Mt. Forest Dr). An artificial rink at Hidden Valley Park (1137 Hidden Valley Rd.) is open for skating daily from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and is ideal for young families and people learning to skate. Capacity on the rink is 10 people.
Lending Library
Play Equipment
• Horseshoes, glow in the dark soccer balls, Kanjam, washer toss, tennis, Spikeball and more are available to borrow. Visit burlington.ca/playlending
Pickleball Equipment
• Borrow pickleball equipment for free, including noise-reducing paddles, ball packs and portable nets that can be used anywhere. Visit burlington.ca/pickleball
Outdoor Activities
Please see below for a list of opportunities available in Burlington (weather permitting) or visit www.burlington.ca/outdoorplay.
Please note: several of the outdoor recreational amenities listed below are not monitored. We ask that you cooperate with others using the space and follow all COVID-19 health precautions and posted signage. If the outdoor recreational space is busy, please try another outdoor recreational amenity in the city or come back at a different time. Please be kind to one another, remain vigilant and stay safe.
Tennis and Pickleball Courts
• Outdoor tennis and pickleball courts at Leighland Park (1200 Leighland Rd.) and Optimist Park (2131 Prospect St.) are open and available for play daily, from 8 a.m. to dusk.
 This is the rural Burlington residents want to keep – walking trails and quiet countryside. Parks and Trails
• Enjoy any of the city’s trails and parks. Visit burlington.ca/outdoorplay
Active at Home
Options to stay active at home are available online at burlington.ca/activeathome, including a series of virtual activities from fitness to crafts for everyone to enjoy. All videos are free and new videos are added frequently.
Follow @BurlingtonParksRec on Facebook and @Burl_ParksRec on Twitter for the latest updates and videos.
Roads, Parks and Forestry The administrative office will be closed on Friday, April 2 and Monday, April 5.
Essential services will be provided as required.
Residents can stay informed about City news at www.burlington.ca/coronavirus and our social media channels: @cityburlington on Twitter and facebook.com/cityburlington
 By Staff
March 29th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The strain from the restrictions on what we can and cannot do while we weather ourselves through this pandemic are beginning to show.
The warm weather is going to attract all kinds of outside activity – and dinner at an outdoor patio – but only with people in your household – who are probably the last people you want to dine with – you’ve been cooped up with them for months.
The Halton District School Board is hosting two Mental Health & Well-Being Information Sessions for Parents/Guardians on Monday, March 29 and Tuesday, March 30 at 7 p.m. at www.hdsb.ca.
 Tuesday, March 30 session will be for families with high school students Discussion will include parent, child and youth mental health and well-being, ways in which parents/guardians can support their children, and resources available for youth and families. Each session will feature four panelists (parents, mental health experts, HDSB school social workers and community partners) who will share their experiences of parenting during COVID-19 and provide helpful information and resources.
The information session on Monday, March 29 will include information for parents/guardians of elementary students (Kindergarten – Grade 8) and the session on Tuesday, March 30 will include information for parents/guardians of secondary students (Grade 9 – 12).
These sessions will help parents/guardians learn about:
• How the pandemic may be impacting their, child’s, mental health and well-being
• Coping and well-being strategies for them and their children to support better mental health and well-being
• Resources and support available through their child’s school and within the community
Elementary Session: Monday, March 29 from 7 – 8:15 p.m. at www.hdsb.ca
Presenters:
• Noorie Soni, HDSB parent and PIC member
• Kim Menezes-Francispillai, School Social Worker, HDSB
• Shivani Patel, Lead, Access and System Navigation, Reach Out Centre for Kids (ROCK)
• Nathan Pillai, Clinical Psychologist, Bayridge Counselling Centre
Secondary Session: Tuesday, March 30 from 7 – 8:15 p.m. at www.hdsb.ca
Presenters:
• Darlene Wierski-Devoe, Parent and Program Supervisor, Halton Families for Families
• Melinda Dougan, School Social Worker, HDSB
• Shivani Patel, Lead, Access and System Navigation, Reach Out Centre for Kids (ROCK)
• Nicole Callander RSSW, Therapist, Bayridge Counselling Centre
 Session will have information for parents/guardians of elementary students (Kindergarten – Grade 8) and the session on Monday March 29th.
The sessions will be livestreamed through the HDSB YouTube channel. Parents/guardians can visit www.hdsb.ca at 7 p.m. on March 29 and/or March 30 to tune in. Registration is not required.
The HDSB is planning additional information sessions for parents/guardians on specific mental health & well-being topics to take place in the spring. The Board’s new Mental Health & Well-Being webpage has information for parents/guardians and students on mental health, ways to support positive mental health and well-being and how to get additional support at school and in the community.
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