 By Staff
June 26th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
It all happened so fast – by the time it was over there she was standing in the middle of the road watching her Land Rover being driven away.
The Halton Regional Police Service is investigating a theft of a Land Rover motor vehicle that occurred on June 25, 2020 at 7:47 pm in the area of Wheat Boom Drive and Post Road, in the Town of Oakville.
The victim was operating a 2014 Land Rover on Post Road approaching Wheat Boom Drive when she stopped for a 4-way stop sign at that intersection. While stopped, a white coloured vehicle (possibly an SUV) intentionally rear-ended the victim’s vehicle at low speed. This prompted the victim to exit her vehicle to assess the damage sustained.
At the same time, a male exited the driver side of the suspect vehicle and engaged the victim in conversation pertaining to the collision. While the victim was outside the vehicle the male entered her driver side and drove off in her car while a second occupant of the suspect vehicle drove the suspect vehicle away.
The victim was not injured as a result of the theft and there were no threats or weapons used during this incident.
Brazen for sure – is that the kind of crime we are getting iin the Region. Disturbing.
Police are reminding the public of the following safety tips:
• If you believe you were intentionally contacted in a vehicle remain in your car and dial 9-1-1
• If you are involved in a motor vehicle collision and exit the car remove the keys from the ignition
• Be vigilant – report any suspicious activity if you think someone is following you
• Do not attempt to stop the fleeing motor vehicle
Community safety is a shared responsibility. Help keep communities safe and immediately report any suspicious activity.
 Anyone who was travelling in the area and may have dash cam video or anyone with information about these vehicle thefts is asked to contact Det. Omar Nadim at the 2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905 825-4747 ext. 2278.
Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers “See Something? Hear Something? Know Something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.
By George Keburia
June 25th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Casinos across Northern Ontario are hoping to be able to re-open soon amid COVID-19 uncertainty
The coronavirus pandemic has affected the entire world as the number of infections globally has now exceeded a whopping nine million bar.
With over 400 thousand deaths related to the novel coronavirus infection, the vast majority of nations are trying to keep their citizens safe by implementing and maintaining social distancing rules. In these unprecedented times, everyone is held accountable for not putting the national safety at risk. The recent case of Dominic Cummings in the United Kingdom was a great example of how the societies have shifted and become more cautious amid the pandemic.
Besides individual responsibility, the same kind of cautiousness extends to business. Both people and governments try to have a specifically tailored and well-researched approach when it comes to re-opening businesses and their future operations. The Canadian government was one of the first globally to introduce a nation-wide lockdown, resulting in thousands of businesses simply coming to a complete standstill. Many of them had to halt operations while others also were put in a position of having to cancel ambitious projects and future plans.
 Border to the United States closed – with no clear re-opening date in place. All of Canada’s industries and businesses came under extreme pressure as the government decided to close its border with the United States. The Americans are the biggest Canadian economic partner with over 85% of exports going to the United States. Under such circumstances, not only exporting businesses but also local companies were impacted negatively. Countless Canadian businesses used to benefit from Americans visiting them over the weekend.
The gambling business in a tricky position
With the mid-march decision of the Canadian government and the prime minister Trudeau, all entertainment businesses were closed indefinitely. These changes naturally affected gambling venues across the nation. They had to cease operations immediately without a chance to evaluate the situation and come up with a solution in a timely manner. Many of the businesses managed to go online within the few days of the new regulations but others had to work and invest heavily in order to survive the turmoil.
In general, the online gambling sector has been on a steep rise throughout the past decade. The representatives of Playamo Canada say, that the incomes from the business across the nation have also been growing. For firms that were always focused on online gambling, the new regulations were a positive change. They now have a chance to attract customers that can no longer visit brick-and-mortar venues in Canada.
But what happens with those who were dependent on visitors for the majority of their incomes? Canada, particularly Northern Ontario, is home to a high number of luxurious casinos and resorts that have been completely shut for almost the past three months. Their bookings and were canceled while loyal customers have no option but to visit online gambling platforms run by other operators.
Gateway Casinos forced to halt its construction in North Bay
Among many of Canada’s famous gambling operators, Gateway Casinos and Entertainment is truly a shining star. The customers’ favorite company provides high-quality luxury venues to its loyal customers across the entire country. It has popular venues located in Sudbury and Sault St. Marie.
 North Bay Casino construction site. However the pandemic meant operations of Gateway-owned casinos had to be closed. Those crucial venues for the company remain closed to the public. The representatives of Gateway say, that the timing of the pandemic could not have been worse. Their new major project in North Bay, a casino resort that already has a green light for construction, had to be stopped. There is simply not enough certainty in the industry to continue the construction of a major venue. The costs of the construction are absolutely tremendous and the company can not afford it unless the already-existing venues are back up and running.
Therefore, ‘Gateway casinos and entertainment’ is now focusing on opening up its Sudbury and Sault Ste. Marie venues to the public. The cash inflow from those venues is unlikely to result in the construction of the new North Bay venue. However, operational casinos would ensure the safety of jobs, as well as more security for the business. The latter is of utmost importance since, without any certain and specific timeframe on the process of opening casinos, Gateway’s future plans remain halted.
How can casinos open going forward?
 The thrill of the win The chief of Gateway’s Sudbury venue, Richard Paquin commented on the company’s future plans: “We haven’t spoken to anybody about that because it’s too early in the process,” However, the Ontario’s government has recently announced its plans to gradually re-open entertainment businesses that could potentially include casinos. Gateway also had a brief communication with the government regarding the issues but no specific answers were given from the authorities.
However, what we know today for sure is that sooner or later, the casino business will start coming back. The question is in what form will it operate? What sacrifices will operators have to make? The expectation is that the opening of venues will be discussed individually.
Every space comes with its own specifications and needs to be rearranged considering those factors. One thing is apparent: the most affected part of the casino business will be the venues’ capacity. Fewer people will be allowed per room with fewer people sitting around tables. This could mean significantly lower incomes for businesses, but with social distancing remaining the only known and effective tool against the spread of the virus, the venues will have to adjust.
 By Pepper Parr
June 24, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Parks and Recreation department is sounding out people on opening up the Seniors’ Centre.
People who provide some of the programing to the city on a contract basis have been called to see if they would be interested in running classes that would be limited to 10 people.
 There won’t be audiences this size at the Seniors’ Centre – but small programs are being considered. There would be a limit on the number of people permitted to be in the building – the number we are getting is 90.
Cleaning crews would do a wipe down after every class.
Parks and Recreation Director Chris Glenn said: “ We are preparing a report to bring to council in the next cycle of meetings, that talks about the proposed redesigned adult / older adult programming plan, based on the stage 2 provincial guidelines. More to come as council discusses the redesign plan.
Members of the Seniors Advisory Committee are reported to not have heard from anyone within Parks and Recreation.
By Pepper Parr
June 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
We had the gist of the story – but that wasn’t enough.
Our friends at the Bay Observer beat us to this one – it doesn’t happen very often.
The Observer reports that:
This Canada Day July 1 from 11am-8pm, the public is invited to stop by the Burlington Centre parking lot, at 777 Guelph Line (corner of Fairview Street and Guelph Line) to experience the fun and flavour of Ribfest in a safe, socially-distant way.
 Ribfest will take place on Canada Day at the Burlington Centre on Guelph Line. Guests are encouraged to enter from the Guelph Line entrance and will be asked to stay intheir vehicles for the duration of their visit. Food vendors will take orders and payment (cards preferred) from vehicles and will deliver each completed order to the vehicle. All staff, vendors, and volunteers will be wearing gloves and masks.
Four award-winning BBQ teams will be in attendance, serving the ribs, pulled pork, and chicken that guests have come to expect from Ribfest. Rib teams in attendance will include Camp 31 BBQ, Billy Bones BBQ, Pistol Pete’s Smokehouse, and Uncle Sam’s BBQ. There will also be food offerings from East Side Mario’s and Blaze Pizza, ensuring that there’s something for the entire family to enjoy.
 The Billboards and the grass – not the same as sitting in your car. The event will also include live music for guests to enjoy from the comfort and safety of their vehicles, curated by the team from Rotary, so expect to hear some local favourites and familiar voices.
This event is a fundraising initiative of Rotary Burlington-Lakeshore, which for the last 23 years has hosted Canada’s Largest Ribfest in Burlington at Spencer Smith Park. They have raised over 3.5 millions dollars for local, national, and international charities through this event, and wanted to ensure their charitable giving could continue this year, despite the difficult decision to cancel their regular Labour Day Ribfest event due to the ongoing public health situation.
 By Staff
June 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Story Update – link below
Chasing the one down.
 This is what a Ribfest is – picking up your Ribs in a paper bag through the window of your car isn’t the same. Word is that there will be a Drive Thru Ribfest at the Burlington Centre (formerly The Mall) on Canada Day.
Nothing specific as to when on Canada Day.
More when we have more.
Drive Thru Ribs eh!
It just won’t be the same will it.
Story update
By Clair Nash
June 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
In these unprecedented times, it is always good to see local businesses supporting each other. Burlington’s various businesses and professional services are no different. In recent weeks, there have been multiple cases where local firms and specialists have been working to make life easier for residents.
In times that are unparalleled in recent history, it makes sense for businesses to reach out to one another. Competition reigns, but with uncertainty riding high, the time has come for Burlington to pull together. All manner of industries are facing tighter times – and those looking for entertainment in the local area are drifting towards Canadian online casinos for safe fun.
Conditions will not last forever, but Burlington is ready to offer comfort and care for as long as it takes.
 The law is complex and procedural and you need guidance at least should you need legal help. Pro Bono Legal Support
A key way in which local businesses in Burlington are supporting residents is through legal care. At this time, many individuals and business owners will be looking for reliable legal support. Unfortunately for consumers, businesses need to make money, too.
However, recent news shows that the National Canadian Lawyers Initiative has stepped in to offer pro bono support. Specifically, people across Ontario will now be able to reach out to NCLI offices for free legal advice.
Residents in Burlington may never know when they need to help of a lawyer or attorney. However, for simple legal affairs, reaching out for advice is now more accessible than ever. It is just one example of how Burlington is making life easier for residents.
Celebrating Local Workers
Of course, businesses and local firms are celebrating hard-working people, too, in these hard times. For example, Sofina Foods, based in Burlington, recently received a special lunch in their honor. Workers at Sofina’s slaughterhouse are continuing to push themselves and to drive for quality produce during uncertain times.
Workers at Sofina’s facility in Burlington received free lunches on behalf of Foodies Anonymous and Ontario Pork. Due to restrictions, workers were only able to enjoy their lunches individually – but the gesture has not gone unnoticed.
 Volunteers putting together food hampers for those who are not employed due to Covid19 Key workers in Burlington are continuing to help provide essential services and sustenance to people across the town, and indeed across the region. While at the moment it may be difficult to celebrate our key workers as much as we may like, there are still ways we can show appreciation.
Pressing On Together
Burlington is a community that pulls together in hard times. It’s clear that, while current conditions may not last forever, people are relying on each other more than ever before.
With news media filling up with negative stories, it’s always worth looking to local sources for positive inspiration. The hard work of Sofina’s team and the NCLI’s pro bono support are just two examples. As time rolls on, it’s likely more Burlington businesses will pull together.
It’s always worth taking a moment to appreciate key workers in your area. Think about how difficult your life may be without them!
By Staff
June 24th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Food Bank was recently contacted by Feed Ontario to help the provincial government get a better understanding of the effects of the Pandemic on Food Banks in regards to client usage and community support since Covid-19 took effect.
 Robin Bailey, Executive Director of the Burlington Food Bank Robin Bailey, Executive Director of the Food Ban said “They also wanted to know what we were doing to prepare for the long term needs that many in our community will face.
“For us at the Burlington Food Bank, we have seen an increase in usage and an increase in new clients and have also recognized great community support through Food Drives and financial donations.
“We have been able to support everyone that has called us for help, increased the fresh produce and other food we distribute and in addition, when local food agencies ask us for assistance, we do our best to support them as well. One of the other results of the current state is we have seen an increase in the number of people in Burlington offering to volunteer with us which has been a huge help in managing the extra work.
“So we are in excellent shape to support more clients as needed and we are now preparing for a transition in delivery method options as we see the City moving towards Phase 3.
 The volunteers that make the place work every day of the week. “We have been able to support everyone that has called us for help, increased the fresh produce and other food we distribute and in addition, when local food agencies ask us for assistance, we do our best to support them as well. Nice to see them asking for our numbers and seeing that they are coordinating with all city Food Banks in Ontario.
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 they can now PICK IT UP. If you live in Burlington, we are here to help.
 By Pepper Parr
June 22nd, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The city opened up and people did what they have been wanting to do for months – get out and relax and be themselves.
The restaurants weren’t able to invite people inside – but they were able to open up patios and invite people to newly created pop up patios that met some of the need.
Social distancing was respected in most places – a few exceptions – hopefully no infections were passed around.
We will know in about ten days if we were behaving well enough to allow a further opening up.
It was great weather and a number of additional locations will be opening for the National holiday.
 Relaxing and enjoying being out with friends.  He wants his Mother to know where he was.  It was all about a good smoke.  The restaurants wanted you to know that there patios were open.
By Staff
June 19th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The people of Aldershot do appreciate the transit service they get.
So much so that they have decided to use from June 22nd to June 29th to show appreciation to all Burlington Transit Employees and recognize that their efforts have not gone un-noticed, especially the Bus Drivers.
Christina Tellier is the Aldershot Senior Bus Rider who initiated the idea.
 Bus riders want to thank the men and woman who drive these buses. Ridership might be low making the trips exceedingly lonely and having to incorporate all the additional COVID restrictions, they kept the buses running for people who had to get to work, to medical appointments or for grocery shopping Frequently the Drivers was the only person on the bus.
Expect to see Thank you Bus Drivers’ signs on lawns along bus routes or in windows.
Encourage children & families to make signs and holler & wave as busses go by on routes.
Encourage families to go to bus stops and show appreciation however they wish.
Bus riders to show personal appreciation any way they can.
When walking past a bus……. Holler & clap and let driver know it is for him.
When driving past a bus, honk with a thumbs up sign
Neighbours cheering, clapping etc. at different bus stops along & across from each other (social distancing)
Coffee Shops and Restaurants with a bus stop close could take out coffee to give to drivers or food at breakfast, lunch and supper times.
The ideas are endless, all with the same purpose…….. Thank You Burlington Transit
By Staff
June 16th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
At one minute after midnight on Friday the city will move into Phase 2 of the Emergency legislation that has determined what we can and cannot do.
The following businesses, services, recreational and outdoor facilities will be allowed to reopen in Halton region with proper safety measures in place:
 There will be lineups to get a seat in a pop up patio. Lingering over a drink won’t be encouraged. Outdoor dine-in services at restaurants, bars and other establishments, including patios, curbside, parking lots and adjacent properties;
Select personal and personal care services with the proper health and safety measures in place, including tattoo parlours, barber shops, hair salons and beauty salons;
Shopping malls under existing restrictions, including food services reopening for take-out and outdoor dining only.
Tour and guide services, such as bike and walking, bus and boat tours, as well as tasting and tours for wineries, breweries and distilleries;
Water recreational facilities such as outdoor splash pads and wading pools, and all swimming pools;
Beach access and additional camping at Ontario Parks;
Camping at private campgrounds;
Outdoor-only recreational facilities and training for outdoor team sports, with limits to enable physical distancing;
Drive-in and drive-through venues for theatres, concerts, animal attractions and cultural appreciation, such as art installations;
Film and television production activities, with limits to enable physical distancing.
WORKPLACE / PUBLIC SPACE CHANGE IN EFFECT IN STAGE 2
Libraries Libraries can provide limited on-site services & programs.
Community centres Community centres can re-open provided they comply with certain conditions including keeping communal kitchens and interior dining spaces closed.
Gatherings in vehicles for religious services, rites & ceremonies No limit on the number of vehicles that can attend provided that conditions in Sect. 8 of Provincial Reg. 52/20 are met.
Performing Arts and Cinemas Concert venues, theatres and cinemas remain closed (except for drive-ins).
Food and beverages can only be sold to people in attendance at the drive-in cinema / drive-in or drive-through concert, theatrical production, performance or artistic event, if they are delivered directly to the vehicle.
 The Nelson Pool Indoor and outdoor water amenities All pools can open (no waterparks).
Outdoor recreational activities & attractions Outdoor activities and attractions can open. No high contact with surfaces or being physically close.
Outdoor team sports training Team sport training can resume while staying physically distant (NO SCRIMMAGES OR GAMES). Access to amenities limited to equipment management and washrooms.
Private & provincial parks/campgrounds Car and RV camping can resume. Limited access to comfort stations (washrooms only).
Beach access and some services at Provincial parks Beach access at Ontario parks is permitted. Services and programming can resume with modified operations.
WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF PEOPLE THAT CAN GATHER FOR DIFFERENT EVENTS?
WORKPLACE / PUBLIC SPACE CHANGE IN EFFECT AS OF JUNE 12
Social gatherings
Permitted with no more than 10 people (increase from 5).
Organized public events
Permitted with no more than 10 people, including a parade (increase from 5).
Indoor weddings, funerals or religious services, rites or ceremonies
Permitted with conditions, including limited indoor capacity (for example, cannot exceed 30% of the maximum capacity of any particular room in the building or structure).
Outdoor weddings, funerals or religious services, rites or ceremonies
Permitted with conditions, including cannot go over maximum of 50 people in attendance
Child care
Licensed child-care centres can reopen and emergency child-care services end.
Summer day camps
Day camps can open with modified operations, no overnight stays.
NOTE: Community centres or facilities for indoor sports and recreational fitness activities can also open province-wide, if used exclusively by summer day camps.
Training centres / training delivery agents
Certification, licensing and training programs, including apprenticeships, can resume.
Post-secondary education institutions
Post-secondary education institutions: universities, colleges, Indigenous Institutes, private career colleges and private universities can reopen effective Thursday, July 2, 2020.
WHAT ARE SOCIAL CIRCLES & HOW DO THEY DIFFER FROM RULE OF 10?
 The Province of Ontario is encouraging residents to establish social circles.
You can have a social circle abd be involved in a social gathering.
The rules for social circles are different from the Rule of 10. Social gatherings can be any 10 people from outside your household, but where physical distancing of at least 2 metres should be maintained.
People may now establish a family or social circle of no more than 10 people who can interact with one another without physical distancing. This could include: hugging, carpooling, enjoying a patio and sharing a meal without staying two metres apart.
Social circles will also bring back supports from people outside of their household who can now help with children, seniors or those in need.
Keep in mind that the virus is transferred for the most part from person to person
 By George Keburia
June 16th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The coronavirus pandemic reached Canada quite some time ago, resulting in thousands of deaths.
Despite the timely measures and restrictions that were introduced by the province, the deadly virus still managed to spread all across Canada. Moreover, the nation’s biggest trade partner and neighbor the United States remains the most severely affected country in the world as the number of total coronavirus infections exceeds a thumping 2 million mark.
 Travel into the United States has been suspended for all except vital transportation of goods. When talking about the impact of the global pandemic on Canada, there are many factors that should be considered. Except for the internal issues that have emerged after the lockdown, the closure of the US/Canada border has also resulted in devastating consequences for Canadian businesses. Many gambling venues along the border were highly dependent on American visitors that would visit over the weekend and spend considerable sums of money. Yet, for almost three months now, these venues have not been able to accept even the local customers.
In mid-march, the government of Canada led by the prime minister Justin Trudeau announced that due to the global pandemic, all enclosed entertainment venues would have to shut down indefinitely. This changed the country drastically over the past two and a half months. The list of affected businesses included casinos, restaurants, bars, and entertainment centers. The gambling venues ended up being one of the hardest-hit businesses in the industry. Unlike restaurants, casinos can’t deliver orders and offer takeaways.
Yet, the vast majority of gambling businesses saw an alternative in moving onto the internet. The list covered all types of venues and as of now, the number of VIP online casinos in Canada is simply tremendous. This way, venues that previously hosted thousands of visitors per day can offer similar services to those loyal customers online. Obviously, this does not tackle the problem at a large scale but most certainly helps businesses survive throughout this turbulent period.
Despite the fact that many gambling businesses found the idea of online casinos helpful, there are still some major operators that simply can not substitute huge revenues with just a mere fraction of it. Such companies had to abandon not only their active venues but also major projects underway in different parts of the country. Gateway Casinos and Entertainment is one of such businesses that now faces lots of obstacles on the way of getting back up and running.
Gateway Casinos and Entertainment evaluating the current state of legislation in Ontario amid the pandemic
‘Gateway Casinos and Entertainment’ is one of the leading operators in the industry across Canada. It owns venues all across the nation and employs hundreds of people. Overlooking the operation of this scale, the company became one of the hardest-hit businesses over the past few months. From mid-march, Gateway casinos and entertainment along with others nationwide had to take its operations to a complete standstill. The company is still unable to operate amid the ongoing restrictions.
 COVID 19 put the construction of the North Bay Casino on hold The government of Ontario has recently talked about the potential of re-opening businesses, including those that fall under the entertainment umbrella. This could mean opening up the Gateway casinos and entertainment to the public. However, there is another crucial part that comes with the process of lifting regulations. The company has its ongoing construction project in North Bay. The government has already given a green light for construction work to recommence. Yet, the company seems to be careful about spending with no casinos open at the moment.
Gateway is now trying its best to reopen its casino businesses. Without the venues up and running, it will likely have trouble financing major construction works in North Bay and beyond. Despite the government’s remarks about the possible opening of certain entertainment businesses, there are still no specific guidelines or time frames about the future of the business.
Casinos will have to adjust to the current state
Sooner or later casinos along with other entertainment venues will open to the public. This day will likely come sooner than we think but the cost of this process might be overwhelming for many businesses. With social distancing being the only effective tool for us to curb the spread of the COVID-19, everything inside of venues will have to adjust to the new reality. This will mean fewer seats and slot machines while customers will have to constantly keep the safe distance.
 Patrons at the Sudbury Gateway Casino where the delight in plying the slots is evident. The Sudbury casino by Gateway has 70 active employees that are ready to get back to work. However, as the capacity of venues will be significantly reduced, the likelihood of them all coming back is very low. There will most certainly be some spending cuts which might result in the reduction of the staff.
Without any specific guidelines or frameworks for how casinos should operate under unprecedented circumstances, the Casino Rama Resort by Gateway in Orilla is reportedly preparing to open. The Gateway representatives say that they are cooperating with the government of Ontario regarding specific venues that could potentially open first in the row.
Many ideas are being considered about how Gateway could get back to doing business actively. There were plans to expand the floor space and add a separate smoking room for the customers. Yet, the idea was scrapped as it potentially stood as a great health risk for employees.
With the total coronavirus infection number globally exceeding 7 million, many new innovative frameworks are introduced for venues to operate safely. Hopefully, Gateway will be one of such innovators in the field.
George Keburia is a commentator on the entertainment sector in Canada
By Staff
June 15th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Last week Oakville North Burlington MP Pam Damoff released the POST Promise.
The promise is a partnering with the private sector, including the Business Council of Canada, on their POST Promise program.
 This initiative calls on businesses to commit to five key public health measures – like physical distancing and handwashing – to protect customers and employees.
I encourage all business owners – whether you have a restaurant, a tech start-up, or a boutique – to join in today at www.postpromise.com.
Together, we can keep people safe and give Canadians the confidence that’s needed to restart our economy.
The POST Promise is a self-declaration that a business is working to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Once completed, a business is provided with the necessary communication and implementation tools to educate employees on the five key steps to workplace safety, which were created to be consistent with what has been recommended by the Public Health Agency of Canada.
Businesses who make the promise will be able to use and prominently display the POST Promise logo which is a nationally recognized symbol of a business’ commitment to doing their part to protect their customers’ and employees’ health and safety as COVID-19 restrictions ease. Participating business can also purchase a kit which will include additional communication tools like window decals, posters and tent cards which can be used to further build awareness of their commitment within their place of business.
By Pepper Parr
June 13th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Black Lives didn’t seem to matter all that much on a nice sunny Saturday afternoon when they had announced that they were going to protest what they saw as unacceptable social behavior to the Black community.
 Civic Square was barren – not a protester in sight. This battle between Kelly’s Bake Shop and the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement had been boiling for a bit – taking up all kinds of oxygen on social media sites.
A protest demonstration had been promoted for Saturday afternoon at 4:00 pm
Kelly’s public relations people said they understood the protest event was not going to take place – saying that information came from the police.
 Police cruiser parked across the street from city hall.  Police cruiser with camera mounted to allow for 360 crowd capture. The police didn’t give out any information but they did plan to have a presence at whatever event took place. Two cruisers were parked adjacent to city hall and another was driving around the area.
Turns out no one showed up – and no one said that no one would be showing up.
 Sign on the Kelly’s Bake Shop front door: No cup cakes – not even take out for the BLM crowd Kelly Childs wasn’t at all sure there wasn’t going to be a crowd – she closed up shop at 2:00 pm.
Much ado about nothing – but there is an issue here that does need to be fully addressed.
Related news stories:
Black Lives Matter hold march – 5000 take part
BLM announce a protest event at Civic Square
Kelly’s Bake Shop PR firms says it wont take place
By Staff
June 13th, 2020 – 1:34 pm
BURLINGTON, ON
We received the following about half an hour ago:
This is Emily Ward on behalf of Kelly’s Bake Shoppe. The team has read your article and would have liked the opportunity to contribute to the conversation.
 To begin with, to our knowledge, the protest has been removed as per the local police force. In addition, when Kelly’s Bake Shoppe heard about the protest, they reached out to the parties to set up a peaceful Q&A where voices could be heard and answers provided. This offer was not followed up on by the group to date.
As a journalist, I would implore you to seek both sides of the story in an unbiased manner as spreading misconceptions doesn’t help the movement or positive change, which Kelly’s Bake Shoppe is committed to.
Please let me know if you would like to schedule a follow up interview to provide your readers with more information about the recent events.
We took a pass on the opportunity to talk to the public relations representative. In the past we have experienced either significant spin around a story we were following up on or were given much less than the truth.
We did check in with the Burlington division of the Halton Regional Police where Sgt Bishop advised us that they were aware of the event, which they expect to be peaceful – but they will have police officers in the area.
I asked if the police had cancelled the event. Sgt Bishop say “that is not within our purview”.
Related news story:
Protest announcement
By Pepper Parr
June 12th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
There will be something in the way of a summer program if and when the province decides to let Burlington move to Stage 2 of the re-opening of the province.
 Splash pads will be open. Splash pads will open – not all of them.
 Some rinks will be open – Appleby and Aldershot will not be opened – nor will Skyway Some of the ice rinks will be open but only for groups that have the permission of their Sports organization. The one expected to make the most use is the figure skating people.
The Parks and Recreation people need to be assured that there will be at least 40 hours of ice time rented, preferably 60 before they begin to make ice – a process that will take two weeks.
 Outdoor pools will be open Outdoor pools will be opened – subject to whatever the province puts in place in terms of rules and approval from the Regional Public Health Unit.
Mayor Meed Ward said she would like to see at least one indoor pool made available.
There will be something in the way of a Summer Camp program – here as well – the city is waiting for the rules.
How many children can there be in any one camp; where will the camps be held. At this point the Standing Committee that met virtually on Thursday has more questions than answers.
It did give the Parks and Recreation people an additional $300,000 to spend – that was on top of the $500,000 that was already in the budget.
By Pepper Parr
June 11th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
This was just not Kelly Childs week and it doesn’t look as if it is going to get any better.
A couple of days of serious critical comment on how the Kelly’s Bake Shop reacted to the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement that exists in Burlington and the demonstration they held recently has resulted in a demonstration in Civic Square on Saturday from 4:00 to 7:00 pm
 The lead up to this can be understood in the back and forth on Instagram and Facebook.
Pretty ugly
 Seen as a superb marketer Keely Childs may have come against an issue she cannot skate around.
 Social media reaction to her reported views on the Black Lives Matter movement have been vicious.
Try as she might, it doesn’t appear that Ms Childs has been able to come up with a response that will satisfy the BLM people
 By Staff
June 6th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Resiliency and mental health can determine how well individuals overcome the stresses and uncertainty of any situation.
 Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe They are two very important aspects connected to a pandemic and how we cope with the social isolation and major disruption to the way we live our lives. Burlington residents are invited to attend an educational online talk from Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe
There is no cost but participation is limited to the first 500 participants.
To register, please email getinvolved@burlington.ca by Tuesday, June 16 at 4 p.m. Participants will be emailed the Zoom Meeting link on June 17.
The events in these first few months of 2020 have been an incredible test of our resilience. Our existence has been stripped down to the essentials. We are in a global fight to protect and manage our health. This global crisis will change the world forever, and each of us will inevitably be transformed by the experience. This pandemic will be taught in future history classes!
As with all seasons and events of challenge, how we respond is crucial. In this remote learning event, Dr. Hanley-Dafoe will present her work on resiliency that includes the five core competencies from a global perspective. Dr. Hanley-Dafoe will discuss how to best navigate personal and professional resiliency in times of uncertainty through stress performance, targeted focusing and value alignment.
She will also introduce the Resiliency Trajectory Model to serve as a tool for seeing resiliency in action. The information is researched informed, readily available, and is grounded in wise practices. Her aim is to facilitate knowledge mobilization that is relatable, accessible, sustainable and realistic. The information presented here may not be radical, but it is ultimately practical for the everyday resiliency we all need right now.
Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe is a psychology and education instructor who specializes in resiliency, navigating stress and change, leadership, and personal wellness in the workplace. Described as transformational, engaging, and thought-provoking, Robyne’s keynotes provide practical strategies grounded in global research and case studies that help foster resiliency within others and ourselves.
 By Pepper Parr
June 6th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
A reported 5000 people marched from Walkers Line to City hall last night in support of protests against the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis .
He was murdered by a police officer who had pressed his knee again Floyd’s neck for more than eight minutes at which point Floyd died.
The last words heard from the man were ”I can’t breathe”.
There were certainly issues of social distancing but the march was a typically Canadian peaceful event.
The crowd in civic square was quiet and not filled with people pressed together.
Half an hour after the event Civic Square was empty with not piece of garbage littering the space.
Would that Spencer Smith Park and the Beachway looked as tidy at the end of a weekend.
 Civic Square was basically spotless half an hour after the Solidarity March took place Thursday evening. It was more than a respectable crowd which struggled with the social distancing rule, especially those on the right hand side who were clustered far too tightly. Will we see an uptick in infections in a couple of weeks? 
By Staff
June 5th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Those fences along the Beachway didn’t last all that long – they certainly raised the hackles on the back of a lot of necks.
Some felt the city was a little heavy handed – but the rules were were pretty clear – Beaches were closed.
At a Special Meeting of Council on Wednesday, Council approved interim modifications to the City’s parks operations service, including the removal of the fencing currently in place at Beachway Park.
 If the people in the center are all from the same family this would be legal. The rules are in place for a very good reason – they prevent the transmission of the virus. The changes to the parks service also allow for temporary washroom facilities to be installed at Spencer Smith Park, Beachway Park and Burloak Park with enhanced service.
The fencing at Beachway Park will be taken down next week and the portable toilets and handwashing stations will be installed at Beachway Park, dependent on availability.
When walking along the beach, residents are reminded to continue to be vigilant about public health practices and provincial directives to reduce the spread of COVID-19, including:
• Maintaining 2 metre physical distance from anyone you don’t live with
• Gathering in groups of 5 or fewer
• Staying home if you feel sick
• Washing and sanitizing hands before and after visiting the area.
 The washroom facilities in the Pavilion on the Beachway are in terrible shape. They have been in need of an upgrade for some time – that work is not scheduled to start until September. Access to washrooms
The washrooms in the pavilion at Beachway Park will remain closed as a result of pre-existing structural issues which are scheduled to be corrected with construction in September 2020. In their place, portable bathrooms and hand washing stations will be made available and cleaned by City parks staff on a regular basis.
The temporary washroom facilities at Spencer Smith Park, Beachway Park and Burloak Park will be installed once available from the supplier, approximately the end of June. The re-opening of other city park washrooms, with enhanced cleaning, will be phased in.
Beach maintenance and safety
City Council approved the hiring of students and temporary staff to assist with this important service and general parks maintenance. City parks staff will provide reduced beach maintenance, including grooming the beach and enhanced cleaning of washrooms. Please place waste in receptacles or take it home with you for disposal to help keep the beach safe for everyone.
Halton Region monitors public beaches to help ensure safe water quality for swimmers. Water quality testing at Beachway Park by Halton Region Public Health is currently not taking place. For updates and more information, please dial 311.
The resumption of City services and spaces is something everyone is looking forward to, but caution that it is vital to continue to do it slowly and carefully with the right precautions.
The city is asking for your patience and understanding as the City works to ensure it has resources and policies in place that align with Provincial regulations and the latest guidance from Halton Region public health to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
City pools and splash pads are still closed until the province loosens up the rules.
By Staff
June 4th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
 Parking spot for those getting tested. Some of the negative and positive fall on the COVID19 front.
Testing at Joseph Brant has gone up 70% since the Premier encouraged more people to get tested
Test results are taking 24-48 hours to come back, on average
A big question being asked, being led to a large degree by Collen Mulholland, is how charities will have to do things a lot differently in the years ahead.
 This is what the Salvation Army would like to see – it may not be what will happen. The Salvation Army Kettle Campaign won’t be able to proceed as usual without retail locations they can be in front of and the handling of cash will be different – that’s a $400K campaign for them annually.
 A very successful event that raised thousands for Rotary and was heavily attended. Can the event recover if they close for a year. Cancellation of Ribfest is a huge loss for Rotary fundraising.
There is a need to look at innovation and flexibility in how charities fund raise – something to give thought to in future meetings.
Domestic/family violence/mental health continues to be an issue – upcoming June public meeting to hear messaging around support.
There are a lot of questions that have to be addressed.
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