Santa fun at the hospital - then take in the Santa parade.

eventsred 100x100By Staff

November 20th, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The good folks at the Brant Hospital Foundation want to get you into the hospital – but not too far past the front door.

Join the JoyThey are celebrating their third annual Join the Joy Holiday Open House! They would like to see a lot of people show up and take part in a fun program. Event runs from 11:00am – 1:30pm., on Sunday, December 1st.

You can leave the hospital event and scoot over to New Street and watch the Santa Claus parade.

Admission is free and includes:

• Photo with Santa Claus
• Holiday treats (while supplies last)
• Musical Entertainment
And you can purchase Festive Activity Station tickets for additional activities including:
• Teddy Bear Wellness Clinic (please bring own stuffed animal)
• Holiday Photo Booth
• Festive Fish Pond
• Face Painting & Glitter Tattoos
• Cookie Decorating
• Stocking Ornament Decorating
• Finger-Cast Making & Germ Station

Register here to take part – no cost

In addition, you can purchase tickets for the children’s gift draw which includes gift certificates, toys and more and gingerbread Joy cookies from Christy’s Gourmet Gifts.

All proceeds from the event support the renovation of the Labour and Delivery Unit.

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Board of Education hosts Stephen Lewis and Michel Chikwanine as they lead a day long symposium on Human Rights.

eventsorange 100x100By Staff

November 20th, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Stephen Lewis and Michel Chikwanine will lead a Human Rights Symposium on December 5th in Burlington,

A full-day of learning is planned at the Symposium with a selection of workshops led by children’s rights advocates and educators including UNICEF, Halton Environmental Network, Special Olympics Ontario, Community Development Halton, Rick Hansen Foundation, and more.

“This year’s Human Rights Symposium provides an opportunity to learn about the important role each of us plays in the lives of youth,” says Rob Eatough, Superintendent of Education for the Halton District School Board. “We look forward to once again bringing educators and community partners together to engage in vital conversation on how we can all work together to support the success and well-being of all members of our society.”

Michel Chikwanine

Michel Chikwanine

Keynote speakers Stephen Lewis and Michel Chikwanine will lead education and community partners through an important day of learning and collaborating about children’s rights.

Stephen Lewis

Stephen Lewis – a full blast speaker who truly soothes the souls of the forgotten. If you’ve never been in the room where he was speaking – attend this event, you will be better for it.

“I spent a large chunk of my life” said Stephen Lewis, “ dealing with the Convention on the Rights of the Child.”

“When I worked with UNICEF, I was responsible for travelling around the world to persuade governments to ratify the Convention on the Rights of the Child and take all of its clauses seriously. The Convention provides a tremendous range of rights for children, all of which I hope to be addressing before you.”

“I’m really looking forward to the Human Rights Symposium,” says Michel Chikwanine, motivational speaker, author and human rights activist based in Toronto and originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo. “There are so many workshops that have many implications for young people, not just here in Canada but across the world.”

Chikwanine is more than a child advocate.  When he was not much more than a young boy he was kidnapped from the soccer field outside his school in the Democratic Republic of Congo; he and his childhood friends were “recruited” to be rebel soldiers.

The Human Rights Symposium will take place on Thursday, Dec. 5, 2019 at the Holiday Inn Burlington Hotel & Conference Centre (3063 South Service Rd, Burlington).

Register HERE

For event details or support with the registration process, email symposium@hdsb.ca.

 

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Port Nelson United Church is Location for Gospel According to St. Nick that slips you into a Gospel Groove .

eventsred 100x100By Staff

November 16, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Gospel According to St. Nick wants to put you into the Gospel Groove with music from Burlington New Millennium Orchestra (BNMO).

Gospel Groove logoThe BNMO is comprised of highly respected musicians and talented soloists whose performances are comparable to the Canadian Opera Company, Metropolitan Opera and Boston Pops with inspiration from the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

Specializing in broad-based non-classical performances, BNMO is genre-crossing. Their repertoire features Pops, Broadway, Jazz, Rock, and World Music, and many of the scintillating arrangements are penned by Conductor and Artistic Director Charles Cozens.

Charles Cozens is the driving force of the BNMO. A highly acclaimed arranger, composer and orchestrator, Maestro Cozens is best known for compelling symphony shows, featuring his arrangements for full orchestra, performed by artists that include Sir Elton John, Randy Bachman, The Nylons, Mark Masri and more.

Toronto_Childrens_Concert_Choir_BNMO_Gospel_Groove

TC3’s proudest fact is that young people who stay with TC3 complete high school and an impressive 90% continue on to higher education.

The Toronto Children’s Concert Choir & Performing Arts Company (TC3) is part of the very full program. They are more more than a choir. Bringing together young people ages 7 to 18 from across the Greater Toronto area, TC3’s mission is to promote, develop and encourage youth through inspirational song, dance and Afro-Caribbean drumming. The focus is always on establishing excellence, holistic development and first-rate performance.

The premier program of The HopeWorks Connection TC3 has performed on television, at corporate events as well as at sold-out performances and on international tours. They have also released an award-winning album. However, TC3’s proudest fact is that young people who stay with TC3 complete high school and an impressive 90% continue on to higher education.

Among that talent that will be featured are:

Join the Burlington New Millennium Orchestra for Gospel Groove - The Gospel According to St. Nick with the Toronto Children's Concert Choir and featured singers Arlene Duncan and Gavin Hope at Port Nelson United Church, 7:00pm Saturday, December 7th, 2019.

Gavin Hope is a natural-born performer with a truly exceptional, emotional voice.

Gavin Hope is a natural-born performer with a truly exceptional, emotional voice whose diverse career includes song, stage, TV and film. This Juno-nominated solo recording artist has performed around the world sharing the stage with such greats as Aretha Franklin, Natalie Cole and James Brown.

His theatre highlights include lead roles in the original Canadian companies of RENT, The Lion King (Mirvish), The Tempest (CanStage) and As You Like It (CanStage). Gavin is also known for his work performing as a member of the Canadian a cappella vocal group The Nylons, with whom he has toured the world and recorded six studio albums (two of which were nominated for Juno Awards).

Alexandra-Oliver

Alexandra Oliver is a Burlington-based poet, who will read a poem written specifically for this BNMO “Gospel Groove” event.

Arlene Duncan is a Canadian singer, songwriter and DORA award-winning actress who has worked extensively in theatre, television, radio and film, but is perhaps best known for her role as Fatima Dinssa on the hit CBC series “Little Mosque on the Prairie”. She was also recognized as Female Vocalist of the Year at the Canadian Black Music Awards and received an African Canadian Achievement Excellence in Arts award.

Duncan‘s theatre credits include the Dora Award-winning production of Ain‘t Misbehavin, and the Tony award-winning musical ―Caroline or Change. The multitalented Duncan has appeared in many commercials and sang jingles for McDonald‘s and Pepsi.

Arlene_Duncan_BNMO_Gospel_Groove

Arlene Duncan is a Canadian singer, songwriter and DORA award-winning actress.

Alexandra Oliver is a Burlington-based poet, who will read a poem she has written specifically for our BNMO “Gospel Groove” event.
Alexandra Oliver’s 2013 collection Meeting the Tormentors in Safeway was the recipient of the 2014 Pat Lowther Memorial Award, and her most recent collection, Let the Empire Down, was also shortlisted in 2017. Her libretto for From the Diaries of William Lyon Mackenzie King, conceived in conjunction with composer Scott Wilson, was performed by Continuum Music in Toronto in 2017.

Oliver is a past co-editor of Measure for Measure: An Anthology of Poetic Meters (2015) and the Toronto-based formalist journal The Rotary Dial. She is currently enrolled as a PhD student in the Department of English and Cultural Studies at McMaster University. Oliver’s most recent chapbook, On the Oven Sits a Maiden, is available through Frog Hollow Press.

It all comes together at 7:00 P.M., Saturday, December 7th, 2019
Port Nelson United Church, 3132 South Dr., Burlington, ON L7N 1H7
Tickets: $45 Adult | $25 Youth 18 and under incl. HST Tickets are only available through the BNMO website.

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Eight Decades of Music from the Movies at A Different Drummer Books

eventspink 100x100By Staff

November 16, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

They are going to do it again; a Sunday afternoon Matinee when the music will be sublime at A Different Drummer Books.

Performed by Andrea Battista, violin; Philip Corke, guitar and Shiori Kobayashi, clarinet

drummer

Andrea Battista, violin; Philip Corke, guitar and Shiori Kobayashi, clarinet

Sunday November 24th, 3pm at A Different Drummer Books, 513 Locust Street Burlington

IIan Eliott said he is delighted to herald the return of his marvellous friends Andrea, Philip and Shiori who will celebrate great cinematic scores in an enthralling concert.

Tickets are $15. Refreshments will be served. Please contact us at (905) 639 0925 or diffdrum@mac.com to reserve seats.

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RBG staffer crawls across newly frozen pond to rescue a young deer.

News 100 yellowBy Pepper Parr

November 14th, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Deer 2 lake to the left

Hendrie Trail – with pond to the left

Earlier in the week a Gazette reader was hiking along the Hendrie Trail, part of the sprawling Royal Botanical Gardens operation.

At around 9:00 am, staff were working diligently in the frigid weather on the reinforcement of the eroding bank across from the popular boardwalk at the Hendrie trail where many regular trail users are fortunate enough to closely see and photograph an array of birds such as red headed woodpeckers Blue Jays Cardinals and chickadees. It is a hidden gem for many.

deer 1

A startled but now on dry land deer pauses before scooting off into the bush. The rescuer, who is not known at this point, watched carefully.

Staff heard the cry of help from the deer that was caught on the frozen pond nearby and jumped on their ATV to come to its rescue.

With bravery one member belly slid across the season’s first ice and helped the deer across to the bank.

Helen Skinner witnessed this act of kindness on National Kindness Day.

Deer 2 bigger

The pond the deer was pulled from is in the background.

It was a moment that none of us will forget as the deer, once on steady ground…paused in our presence before gracefully disappearing into its natural habitat.

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They gave 470 lbs of home grown produce to the community: kudos to the two of them.

News 100 greenBy Staff

November 14th, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

This month BurlingtonGreen is celebrating the close of the 2019 Grow to Give program by recognizing two of their amazing program leads, Ross Johnson & Darlene Duncan.

Ross and Darlene“Both volunteers have tirelessly committed their time, energy and knowledge to support the Grow to Give program. They were on site every time a new volunteer required orientation, organized tasks and timelines, and got their hands dirty every week caring for the food donation garden, harvesting produce and more.

“We could not have operated this impactful program without these two wonderful team members and we are THRILLED that they will be leaders for the program again next year!”

This year Ross and Darlene were able to donate over 470 lbs (215 kg) of produce to the community, contributing a whopping total of almost 8,000 lbs (3,535 kg) since 2012.

 

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Waterdown real estate firm holds an exceptionally successful winter coat drive - truckload was delivered to the Good Shepherd.

News 100 yellowBy Pepper Parr

November 13th, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The big national corporations have deep pockets and layers of resources to mount a public drive to show that they care about the communities the operate in. It’s just good business and in this day and age expected.

What do the mid-sized local firms do that can express their concern for their community? Many firms have found a niche that allows them to involve their staff in giving back to their community in their own way.

Woolcott - pile of clothing

The response was more than overwhelming. Woolcott staff had to scramble a bit to find space for everything that was donated. The five tonne truck that was taking the donated goods was more than half full.

Jayne Woolcott, partner at Woolcott Team, said to be the largest real estate brokerage in the Hamilton – to Burlington market (by dollar volume) said the idea for the clothing drive came out of their “mastermind” team. “We operate in a very collegial manner and are open to almost anything from any staff member.”

“We’ve been doing this for five years now – this drive was our biggest ever, partly because of the new location on Dundas east of the Waterdown core. Our signage is much better and having the truck parked in the driveway helped.

“Prior to that we worked out of a supermarket parking lot.”

Woolcott - Staz helping

Trunks were filled with winter coats and other household goods.

The flow of traffic into the Woolcott parking lot on Dundas east of the Waterdown core was consistent during the several hours they were open – the five tonne truck was half full by the time it was ready to head out to the Good Shepherd operation in Hamilton where the coats and other household goods were to be sorted and readied for distribution.

Woolcott - Marty - coat

Everyone who drove into the parking lot was greeted by a Woolcott staff member. Marty Staz was greeting the gentleman on the right and getting ready to take the coat he was holding thinking it was being donated. The gentleman on the right told Marty that it was his own winter coat and the goods he was donating were in the trunk of his car. It was a nice coat.

Woolcott spent more on social media and emails to their extensive email list.

Each year Woolcott Team gets the names from the Good Shepherd of several families that need help during the festive season.

“We provide the funds for the food and buy the gifts that the families are just not able to provide” explained Jayne Woolcoot.

It’s a project that has grown – the Woolcott people can see no reason why it shouldn’t continue.

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A winter staycation is a nicer idea than you might imagine. Get creative and see what there is right in your home town.

eventspink 100x100By Claire Nash

November 13th, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

Enjoy a Staycation this Winter

Prepaid Nash tobogan

Dust off the Toboggan and get outside this winter! Photo by spDuchamp

Dust off the Toboggan and get outside this winter! When we think of the kind of people who preach the benefits of the staycation, who comes to mind? Is it the California couple who have a plethora of yoga classes, beaches and organic restaurants to choose from? Is it the lucky newlyweds who relocated to Thailand and have endless nature at their fingertips? Chances are you don’t consider your own hometown a prime staycation location. However, nobody does!

We all take for granted the things we have around us, but looking at your surroundings like an outsider can bring a whole new excitement to your hometown. Here are some options to consider for your holiday at home to re-ignite that love of Burlington.

You Could Find a New Hobby Holidaying at home can seem a little dull at first, we all have our favorite places to go and we’ve done them time and time again.

However, finding a new favorite place or even a hobby in your hometown is a brilliant feeling! There are plenty of entertaining activities around Burlington, for example, visit the top tourist and local attractions, if you’re a chocolate lover try some Lake Champlain Chocolates, or get to grips with the game in the poker clubs around the city, which offer a friendly place for beginners to train their skills. If you’re doing this staycation with your partner, then there is always the chance that one of you might fall in love with the game a little more than the other. If that does turn out to be the case then luckily there’s a great deal else going at our casinos this winter, so neither of you will be left bored!

Prepaid Nash tortillo

Enjoy fresh corn flour tortillas and homemade queso fresco at MaracaZ Cantinerie. Photo by stu_spivack

If you’re looking for a new laid back favourite, then MaracaZ Cantinerie could be just the thing. Having only opened relatively recently, this Mexican inspired bar has received more than its fare share of rave reviews already.

Their tacos and tequila are the main attractions here. The bar offers frozen drink machines to make fruity slushies (that can even be made a little bit naughty with the addition of one of their 20 tequilas!) The tacos are really great though; choose from crispy fried fish, spicy chicken, smokey pulled pork or a melt in the mouth beef brisket. Next load your tacos up with all of the traditional toppings, including a cheese, which is absolutely delicious and made in house.

It’s far enough away from traditional Canadian fare to feel like you’re having a holiday experience, but it has all of the benefits of that warm ‘sticks to your guts’ fodder that gets us through these icy winters!

Embrace the Cold
Sure, plenty of us go on holiday to escape the cold weather, but plenty of people make their way to Canada every year to make the most of our icy winters. Think like a holiday maker and book yourself a bit of time to try some winter sports. We are lucky enough to have free facilities that allow tobogganing and ice-skating around Burlington.

If you don’t mind contributing a little bit of money then there are also some fantastic skiing locations, which are totally suitable for beginners, or for the more competent there’s even the possibility of cross country skiing – a truly exhilarating adventure.

Whichever winter sport feels the most natural for you, remember to wrap up warm and pay attention to any warnings that are given. Done correctly, winter sports are a great fun way to exercise, but as with anything they can be dangerous if you don’t take sensible precautions.

Get Inspired
Living in Ontario, we have plenty of nearby galleries to choose from, but one of the most exciting ones is right on our doorstep in the heart of Burlington.

Prepaid Nash AGB

Art Gallery of Burlington – over looking Lake Ontario – Open seven days a week – Admission is free.

The Art Gallery of Burlington hosts around 20 exhibitions per year, which cross a wide spectrum of captivating themes. One of the collections that absolutely cannot be missed is of their contemporary Canadian ceramics, the largest on display in the world.

Although the gallery is free to visit, they run as a not for profit organization, so they rely heavily on donations from the public. So remember, if you enjoyed your visit, give a little tip or buy something from the gift shop.

Spending our money in local businesses is the best way to keep Burlington a diverse and creative neighbourhood.

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Public gets a chance to learn just how the iSTEM program is working at Aldershot High School.

News 100 yellowBy Staff

October 31st, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

It was the best decision that came out of the PAR (Program Accommodation Review) of 2017 – an event that shut down two of the city’s seven high schools.

There were some issues at the time about the amount of unused space at the Aldershot High School, which was threatened with closure.

A trustee who failed to get re-elected came up with the idea and staff got a grip on it and created what came to be known as i STEM – Innovation, Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics program that takes a project approach to learning that requires students to solve problems with the subjects they are learning.

Blackwell and Miller at itsem Nov 2018

Superintendent Terri Blackwell with Director of Education Stuart Miller the night parents showed up to learn more about the iSTEM program.

The program started in September with a grade 9 class that has students from across the Region.

The response to the creation of the STEM program surpassed the Board’s most optimistic projections.

There will be a presentation on November 12th at the high school – the public will get a chance to see how well the program is working.

The grade 9 students will move on to grade 10 – when they graduate there will be a full high school program.

Available to students in Halton and beyond, I-STEM (Innovation – Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) enables students to develop innovation skills related to engineering design and design thinking, entrepreneurial thinking skills and global competencies. Students will have enhanced learning opportunities through community and post-secondary partnerships.

“I-STEM has been designed to prepare students for future trends in the workforce and help students solve complex economic, social and environmental problems,” says Terri Blackwell, Superintendent of Education for the HDSB. “We are fortunate to work with an extensive group of advisors on program development, opportunities and learning.”

Blackwell

Superintendent Terri Blackwell

“I-STEM has been designed to prepare students for future trends in the workforce and help students solve complex economic, social and environmental problems,” says Terri Blackwell, Superintendent of Education for the HDSB. “We are fortunate to work with an extensive group of advisors on program development, opportunities and learning.”

“We look forward to sharing with families and the community what current I-STEM students and faculty are accomplishing in the program’s inaugural year, as well as showcase the new and innovative learning spaces.”

I-STEM Open House, Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2019, 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Aldershot School (50 Fairwood Place W, Burlington)
A presentation will be held in the auditorium at 7 p.m. and repeated at 7:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Overflow parking is available at LaSalle Park.

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The Christmas sales have begun - Halloween is being bumped to the side.

eventsgreen 100x100By Staff

October 30th, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

And so it begins.

The Port Nelson United Church people remind us that Halloween may be two days away, but the Christmas season is in full swing at Port Nelson United Church!

Port Nelson sign Christmas 2019Port Nelson hosts the 67th annual Mistletoe Mart on Saturday, November 9, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. What makes this year even more special is that it’s the first Mistletoe Mart being held in the renovated church. After years of planning, designing and construction, Port Nelson can now display Christmas spirit in a bright, modern, accessible space that is just perfect for hosting Burlington’s favourite Christmas party!

“Come experience a true Christmas Bazaar atmosphere: artisans, jewelry, knitting, sewing, baking, crafts, books, silent auction, collectibles and more! Come early for your morning coffee and a muffin and stay for the best Christmas lunch in town!

“If you play your cards right, you can get your Christmas shopping done without ever needing a mall, a big box store or an online delivery.

“We are accepting $2 donations to support our community outreach projects. After all, Christmas is the season of giving!”

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Civic Chorale Singers at St. Christopher’s Anglican Church, Saturday, November 23 at 7:30 pm

eventsred 100x100By Staff

October 30th, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Burlington Civic Chorale Singers will celebrate humanity’s need for love, redemption and comfort with an evening of 19th- and 20th-century works at St. Christopher’s Anglican Church, 662 Guelph Line in Burlington, on Saturday, Nov. 23 at 7:30 pm.

Sarah Q singer

Sarah Quartel

With her tenderly emotional “Snow Angel,” Canadian composer Sarah Quartel introduces a vision of angels in the form of the children among us who inspire us to be better than we’ve been. Patrick Hawes combines the ageless texts of “Beatitudes” with his stirring music to bring comfort to our present lives and hope for our future.

Fauré’s “Cantique de Jean Racine,” Eric Whitacre’s innovative setting of “Go, Lovely Rose,” and Ralph Vaughan Williams’ arrangements of British folk songs complete the program.

Tickets are $25, available at the door or in advance by calling 905-577-2425.

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Pinball exhibit on at the Joseph Brant Museum.

News 100 blueBy Staff

October 28th, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

It is there for the whole family to enjoy.

The Joseph Brant Museum and the playable pinball exhibition is on display until January 12.

Pinball at museum

A totally different look at the world of Pinball machines – now on at the Joseph Brant Museum.

The exhibition is included in the price of Museum admission, and features rock-themed, playable pinball machines alongside merchandise and artifacts related to artists and bands.

Regular Museum Hours
Monday / Closed
Tuesday / 10:00am-4:00pm
Wednesday / 10:00am-4:00pm
Thursday / 10:00am-7:00pm
Friday / 10:00am-4:00pm
Saturday / 12:00pm-4:00pm
Sunday/ 12:00pm-4:00pm
Evenings and other times by appointment

Adults: $10.00, Seniors-students: $8.00
Children: $6.00; 3 to 12 free.
$30. Family, which is defined as up to 2 adults/seniors and up to 4 children.

Other than a little landscaping to be completed it looks as if the construction is completed. Now to see what the inside of the place looks like.

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The importance of looking after the caregiver.

News 100 blueBy Staff

October 25th, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON
Parents/guardians are invited to attend a free evening presentation on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2019 aimed at addressing the importance of looking after themselves as caregivers in order to look after their loved ones.

The presentation by Michele Sparling is titled “Putting ‘Self’ in Caregiving – How Looking After you Helps You Look After Them”.

Seniors - caring for them

Who is taking care of the care-giver?

In this session, parents/guardians and caregivers will hear why self-care is an important part of the regimen of care, what it is, what it is not, and one family’s story of finding room to breathe and reset, in order to be there for their loved ones.

Presented by Community & Parent Partners for Kids (C.A.P.P. for Kids), the event runs from 7 – 8:30 p.m. at Gary Allan High School/New Street Education Centre (3250 New St., Burlington). There will be community displays from 6:45 – 7 p.m.

Michele Sparling is a Partner at Innovative HR and has 30 years of in depth experience as a results-oriented senior human resources professional. She has a Bachelor of Business Administration, and a Master of Industrial Relations. She is trained in mediation, facilitation, ASIST, Mental Health First Aid, and as a SocioPsychological Health and Safety Advisor. Michele and her family have lived in the Oakville community for 23 years.

C.A.P.P. for Kids is a partnership between Halton Region, Halton District School Board, Halton Catholic District School Board, Reach Out Centre for Kids (ROCK), Our Kids Network, Halton Regional Police Service, Ontario Early Years, Burlington Public Library, City of Burlington, and the Halton Multicultural Council.

For more information about this event, email capp4kids@gmail.com.

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Another survey? How many can we swallow? This time it is SoM

News 100 blueBy Pepper Parr

October 23rd, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

We are being surveyed to death.

The city seems to have several surveys on the go at the same time. There are three they want you to respond to – soon.

These surveys aren’t all that short. Useful – but is there not a limit as to how many surveys can be put before the public?

The Sound of Music is asking for your views on what they do as a Festival and what they want to do. They need public input for the funding report they will put before council. They are too late to get anything from the public trough this year.

som-2016-band-playing

The musicians who didn’t make it to the big stages – they got some space on the streets of the city.

For those who do the SoM survey – their names will be entered into a draw for a full weekend VIP Pass to the free festival, June 18-21.

SoM survey graphic

A closer look at some of the questions and a little condition at the end of the questionnaire gives rise to some concern.

Why is a survey respondent “consenting to receive email communications from the survey author’s organization based on the information collected.

Who is the survey author’s organization?

We live in a time where personal information is both a valuable commodity and something we need to be vigilant about protecting.

In our communications with the Sound of Music and its board we have found them to be very adverse to being open and transparent with their dealings with media.  In a phrase – we don’t trust them.

So when they ask you you: “Please provide us with a small amount of personal information. Your city and state is purely for data capture. We use your contact information to enter you into the VIP Package draw. You will not be added to our mailing list, or any receive any further marketing. This is simply to contact you should you win our VIP Package draw.”

And when they add: “By entering my personal information, I consent to receive email communications from the survey author’s organization based on the information collected.” my eyebrows arch.

Set out below is a part of the survey.  You decide if you want to respond.

SoM questions some

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Journalist, broadcaster and historian to talk about her book on Mary and Christopher Pratt - a couple that left a significant mark on Canadian art.

eventsblue 100x100By Staff

October 23rd, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Carol Bishop-Gwyn, is a journalist, broadcaster and historian of the arts who has written an enthralling chronicle of the eventful lives, the indelible works, and the colourful relationship of artists Mary and Christopher Pratt.

Pratt art - boat

An early screen print – Boat in Sand, 1961 is in the National Gallery’s collection.

Ross King explains the book this way: “Christopher Pratt has left a truly indelible mark on the Canadian art canvas. Bishop-Gwyn’s remarkable double portrait of Canada’s first couple of painting explores the lives of Mary and Christopher Pratt with the insight and sympathy of a friend and insider, and the wide lens and forensic scrutiny of an historian.

“Along the way we learn of the passions, tragedies and rivalries behind two extraordinary bodies of work.”

In Art and Rivalry,  Carol Bishop-Gwyn delves into the the lives of Christopher and Mary Pratt, Canada’s most renowned contemporary artists.  Their once supportive relationship ended in scandal, divorce, and a furious competition for dominance in Canadian Art. Their never-before-told story offers insight into the role of art and artists in our society.

Gwyn book on PrattThe Provincial flag of Newfoundland and Labrador, was designed by Pratt and adopted in 1980.

Nfld flagAdmission is free–please register at this link or by contacting us at (905) 639 0925 or diffdrum@mac.com.

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A piece of visual art depicts the different sounds from activities at the Tansley Woods Community Centre.

theartsBy Pepper Parr

October 18th, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The city invests a considerable amount of money in public art and throughout each year contests are held that allow artists to pitch their ideas for what is referred to as “installation” art; something that is not permanent and is often work that can be interacted with.

The city announced seven installation art locations that were to be launched along with Culture Days which took place late in September.

A communications glitch got in the way of our publishing and promoting these events. The Senior Manager Strategic Communications prevented us from talking to the Manager of Cultural Services for some clarification.

The answers the Senior Manager Strategic Communications gave us were not clear and we didn’t have the time to do the back and forth that was required to get clear answers.

Cobalt Connects, the Hamilton based organization that manages the selection of artist’s process, made what appears now available.  With that information we can now share with you what the city made possible.

These installations were available on September 27 and will be on display until October 27, 2019. There are seven Temporary Art Installations.

These artists transformed spaces across Burlington with temporary public art installations. By placing art in unexpected spaces such as parks and community centres, the Public Art Lab brings contemporary art to new audiences. All installations are free of charge! The Public Art Lab is produced by the City of Burlington’s public art program.

The art is pretty well distributed throughout the city – except for Aldershot – they got stiffed.

Kristina Bradt has done Intersection which is a Soundscape Projection  installed in the lobby of the Tansley Woods Community Centre.

Bradt visited the facility at different times throughout the season to collect sound using a field recorder. By capturing the sounds of the activities, events, and people that move through the space, Bradt captured that which often goes unnoticed.

Art image Tansley Woods

The different sounds from activities at the Tansley Woods Community Centre got transformed into art.

Bradt then uses these recordings to create a large-scale floor projection that features bright, abstracted imagery that has a contemporary feel and brings a sense of wonder and curiosity directly inspired by the energy and livelihood of those who inhabit the space. What you see is the artist’s interpretation of the sound data, turned visual art.

Kristina Bradt is an artist and public art enthusiast living in Windsor, Ontario. Bradt earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts from University of Windsor (2017) with a focus in Sculpture, Drawing and Digital Media.

Her interest in 3D printing inspired her research into art that depicts the visualization of sound over the past 2 1/2 years and led her work at Artscape Gibraltar Point for her first residency this past February (2019).

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What’s Happening at Burlington Area Casinos This Fall/Winter

eventsred 100x100By Jenny Atkins

October 17th, 2019

BURLINGTON,, ON

 

Although the year is coming to a close, there are still loads of great events to enjoy at casinos in and around the Burlington area. We’ve scoured the best live gambling venues surrounding the city and compiled a list of the very best events taking place. See out 2019 in style with one of the suggestions below!

Not all the casinos in the area have spaces for events but those that do have some seriously great entertainment lined up. There are also a plethora of poker tournaments and special cash games dotted around.

In case you don’t have enough time to visit a casino in Burlington you can always sign up for one of the many Canadian no deposit options. Be wary though and rather start with a no deposit bonus to test the waters first.

Elements Casino Brantford
Elements BradfordWhen you’re not propping up a slot machine or indulging in either limit or no limit action at one of the 14 live cash game tables, why not venture into one of the great shows the casino hosts regularly.

Below, you’ll find the full line-up of events for the rest of the year.

 

 

Ryapsody Rebels (October 25)
“Hooligans with music in their blood”, the London, Ontario-based three-piece will bring their stripped back indie jams to the casino this October.

MixMaker (October 26)
DJ MixMaker will bring the party on Saturday October 26.

Falls View Casino Resort

Falls View

Eric Suen & Vivian Lai (October 20 – October 21)
An evening of classic Cantonese and Mandarin hits with Hong Kong’s acclaimed duo.

The Midtown Men (Stars from the Original Broadway Cast of Jersey Boys) (October 23 – October 27)
After gelling onset in the hit musical, Christian Hoff, Michael Longoria, Daniel Reichard, and Robert Spencer decided to take their ‘60s show on the road. Check them out this October at the casino.

Rick Springfield

Rick Springfield

Rick Springfield (November 1 – November 2)
The multi-decade-spanning Rick Springfield will perform hits from his extensive back catalogue to kick off the November events program. Appearing over two nights, you’ve no excuse not to get over for this intimate performance.

Keeps on trucking
Eric Moo (November 3 – November 4)
Award-winning Malaysian singer-songwriter Eric Moo will be at the casino performing hits in both Cantonese and Mandarin.

The Jim Cuddy Band (November 6)
The multi-gold-record-selling Jim Cuddly Band will appear before a local crowd to perform hits from his five solo albums. Being a local boy, we’re expecting this one to be popular.

Collective Soul (November 7 – November 8)
American alt-rockers Collective Soul will hit the casino with their blend of post-grunge and soft rock jams. Even after more than 25 years in the game, this five-piece are still more than capable of rocking a crowd. Come see for yourself this November.

Brandi Carlile (November 9 – November 10)
The genre-spanning Brandi Carlile will be putting on an intimate solo performance.

Air supply

Air Supply

Air Supply (November 14 – November 16)
Starting their musical journey in the mid-1970s, transatlantic soft rockers Air Supply have a raft of hits to date. You can catch them performing a huge selection from their multi-decade career this Fall at the casino.
Firm favourite
Christmas On Ice (November 21 – December 8)
Kicking off Christmas in style. This high-octane figure-skating spectacular is bound to get you in the festive spirit!

An Evening with Old Dominion, The Band Behind the Curtain (December 12 – December 13)
Hot off the back of the release of their latest self-titled album, this Nashville-based five-piece are keen to perform their latest material. For all you older fans, we’re sure the country/rock/hip-hop mashup will throw in a few classics to boot!

Casino Niagara
Casino NiagaraThe Casino Niagara’s EV2L Sports Bar & Entertainment area host live weekend entertainment each week. There is also a truly scintillating menu in the joint, loaded with classic bar snacks. It’s the perfect place to take in a live performance, watch the game, or hit the dance floor after hitting the casino’s tables.

Triple Crowns (October 25 – October 26)
There’s no cover charge for this night of rock and pop hosted by Triple Crowns!

Stone the Radio (November 1 – November 2)
Kick off November with Stone the Radio, one of Ontario’s finest alternative and classic rock covers bands. Dig out your leathers and we’ll see you at the front!

DJ Recon (November 8)
Get ready to boogie with the multi-genre disc jockeying of DJ Recon.

Renegade (November 9)
Featuring an eclectic roster of tunes ranging from AC/DC to Bruno Mars, there’s something for everyone at a Renegade show! Come and see for yourself.

By Design (November 15 – November 16)
This local quartet will be performing rock classics from throughout the ages.

DJ Vibe (November 22 – November 23)
Local master of the turntables, DJ Vibe, is sure to start the party at Casino Niagara this November. Will you be there?

DJ 5150 (November 29)
Another night another DJ! This time it’s DJ 5150 spinning the tunes for the party people of the Casino Niagara.

Razorbax (November 30)
Local classic rockers The Razorbax will perform their countryfied jams for your listening pleasure.

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Worobec: Gearing down - letting her body adjust and set her mind on the New York City Marathon,

sportsgold 100x100By Ashley Worobec

October 16th, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

It’s officially taper time! Tapering means that the bulk of work is done, and now it’s time to rest and recover from the cumulative effects of training- the idea being that you show up to the start line with rested and refreshed legs, so that you’re ready to go.

For a marathon, the taper period is usually around 3 weeks, and that’s the plan I’m following. This past week was my “peak week” of training, and I totaled 75km out on the roads this week. The next three weeks will have a dramatic decrease in that mileage number, with the week before the marathon being less than 20km of running. I will continue to do Pilates and yoga weekly, but I’ve shut it down on Crossfit right now, and want to give my legs the best chance possible to recover.

watch

That watch records every km Worobec runs. This run is the last really long one before New York City.

On Thanksgiving Sunday, I ran 38km, my longest run in this marathon build. I have had October 13th circled on my calendar since training began back in mid-June; a distance like that can be daunting. But somewhere over the last few months, I have come to embrace these long runs rather than fear them, and I found that by early last week, I was actually looking forward to Sunday’s run to see what my body could do.

legs

The after-effects of a treatment called “cupping.”

I am really happy with how it went- I felt great and kept a strong pace, and I’ve recovered really well; I have no soreness in my legs at all and I can only notice minimal fatigue in my lower legs and feet. Over the last few weeks, I’ve been struggling with some calf tightness after my runs- the red circles in the picture of my legs are the immediate after-effects of a treatment called “cupping.”

This treatment got its claim to fame when Michael Phelps showed up to the 2016 Olympics with circular bruises from cupping, but it’s actually a method of treatment used in Traditional Chinese Medicine that has been modified and adapted by many manual therapy practitioners.

Family Thanksgiving

That stroller has a couple of thousand km on it.

The group photo here shows my family and my brother’s family enjoying an apple orchard on Thanksgiving weekend- my nephew is using our running stroller, and I would estimate that stroller probably has a couple of thousand kilometres on it, from all the runs I used to do with my kids when they were little!

Water bottle 4l

The target is to swallow the 4 liters – she doesn’t always make it.

One other thing I’ve been focusing on lately is hydration; I’ve been using a huge 4L refillable water bottle, and my aim every day is to drink the entire thing by the end of the day. I am not succeeding every day (that’s a lot of water!), but I figure if I aim to finish the entire thing and then fall a bit short, I will still be much more hydrated than I would be if I didn’t have this black and white measurement starting me in the face.

Hydration is key for so many things, including recovery and race day performance, so it’s extra-important at this stage of the game.

Less than 20 days to November 3rd – New York City –  the Marathon. .

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Are we a little thick between the ears: the instructions for this installation art experience just didn't sink in.

theartsBy Pepper Parr

October 15th, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The city invests a considerable amount of money in public art and throughout each year contests are held that allow artists to pitch their ideas for what is referred to as “installation” art; something that is not permanent and is often work that can be interacted with.

The city announced seven installation art locations that were to be launched along with Culture Days which took place late in September.

A communications glitch got in the way of our publishing and promoting these events. The Senior Manager Strategic Communications prevented us from talking to the Manager of Cultural Services for some clarification.

The answers the Senior Manager Strategic Communications gave us were not clear and we didn’t have the time to do the back and forth that was required to get clear answers.

Cobalt Connects, the Hamilton based organization that manages the selection of artist’s process, made what appears now available and we share it with you.

With information that is clear we can now share with you what the city made possible.

These installations were available on September 27 and will be on display until October 27, 2019. There are seven Temporary Art Installations.

These artists transformed spaces across Burlington with temporary public art installations. By placing art in unexpected spaces such as parks and community centres, the Public Art Lab brings contemporary art to new audiences. All installations are free of charge! The Public Art Lab is produced by the City of Burlington’s public art program.

The art is pretty well distributed throughout the city – except for Aldershot – they got stiffed.

Troy Lovegates, Hide and Seek at Spencer Smith Park has a communication challenge of its own.

Art Spencer Smith image

We were Ok up to this point. Where is the stamp we are supposed to put into the map we picked up at the Gazebo. Confusion reigned – it was good idea though.

It is a Wood Sculptures, Scavenger Hunt Map

Hide and Seek is a series of folk art wood sculptures that have been hidden throughout Spencer Smith Park.

So far – so good.

Park visitors are invited to participate in a “scavenger hunt” to find the sculptures and collect a stamp at each location.

Who hands out the stamp ? Are they just sitting there for the taking?  What happens when it is raining?

Visitors can pick up a map with clues from the birdhouse box located beside the gazebo and start their adventure.

The first people to turn in their completed map to the Burlington Visitor Centre (414 Locust Street, 9:00 am 0 4:00 pm) will receive a special prize!

Is this the first person every day?

Sounds like a great idea – but the instructions aren’t clear enough.  If this part of this art event worked for you – do let us know.  We might be the ones that are a little thick.

Troy Lovegates is an internationally prolific street artist who begins his process by immersing himself within the project’s immediate area, breathing in its surroundings and passersby. His public art centres on the holistic importance of community, frequently featuring images of residents taken on early expeditions around a project site. Lovegates has spent many years exploring the nooks and crannies of Lake Ontario, its nearby railway corridors and green spaces.

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'I wish I could explain': installation art at Norton Community Park

artsblue 100x100By Pepper Parr

October 14th, 2019

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The city invests a considerable amount of money in public art and throughout each year contests are held that allow artists to pitch their ideas for what is referred to as “installation” art; something that is not permanent and is often work that can be interacted with.

The city announced seven installation art locations that were to be launched along with Culture Days which took place late in September.

A communications glitch got in the way of our publishing and promoting these events. The Senior Manager Strategic Communications prevented us from talking to the Manager of Cultural Services for some clarification.

The answers the Senior Manager Strategic Communications gave us were not clear and we didn’t have the time to do the back and forth that was required to get clear answers.

Cobalt Connects, the Hamilton based organization that manages the selection of artist’s process made what appears now available and we share it with you.

With information that is clear we can now share with you what the city made possible.

These installations were available on September 27 and will be on display until October 27, 2019. There are seven Temporary Art Installations.  These artists transformed spaces across Burlington with temporary public art installations. By placing art in unexpected spaces such as parks and community centres, the Public Art Lab brings contemporary art to new audiences. All installations are free of charge! The Public Art Lab is produced by the City of Burlington’s public art program.

The art is pretty well distributed throughout the city – except for Aldershot – they got stiffed.

Art Norton image

The wish might get you thinking – which is the point of it all.

The installation at the Norton Community Park is called Typographic Fencing; something that  defines space and prompts conversation by creating large-scale text in areas where it is not expected— around the edges of parking lots, near ravines, off divided highways, around a fenced-in playground.

These temporary installations are woven out of flagging-tape, a simple, inexpensive material used to mark boundaries. Squares in chain-link or vertical-bar fences become pixels on a screen or canvas, the medium for messages. The messages are installed anonymously and removed without ceremony. By transforming large-text into large questions, aim to spark a dialogue.

Lambchop is a street artist and designer based in the American South, specializing in permanent and ephemeral public installations investigating the relationship between place, typography, and interaction. Lambchop’s work has been exhibited internationally and recognized with a Communication Arts Award, a Society of Typographic Arts “STA 100” Award, has been featured through DesignMilk, NotCot and SHFT.

More on this artist at: cargocollective.com/lambchop

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