 By Staff
September 4th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
City of Burlington launches new Food for Feedback event, a community engagement barbeque where residents can connect with City staff and Council to provide feedback on municipal projects and initiatives. Attendees will receive a free lunch from participating food trucks in exchange for feedback at this September 14th event.
It is a free, drop-in opportunity open to residents of all ages. Younger children are welcome to attend and enjoy the Imagination Playground on-site.
 The input citizens provide at Food for Feedback will help the City to continue to improve City services and initiatives.
Date and Location: Saturday, Sept. 14, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. at Central Park Bandshell, 2311 New St.
In case of inclement weather, the event will be held indoors at the Seniors’ Centre Auditorium, 2285 New St.
City booths at the event will include initiatives such as:
• Adopted Official Plan – Taking a Closer Look at the Downtown
• 2020 Budget
• Leash Free Parks
• Integrated Mobility Plan
• Climate Action Plan
Visit GetInvolvedBurlington.ca to learn more about the Food for Feedback engagement barbeque and other engagement opportunities available to residents to contribute their ideas and feedback on municipal issues and projects.
It appears that city hall has to spoon feed people to learn what their opinions are. For a city with a voter turnout of around 35% perhaps this is the best we can do,
 Mayor Marianne Meed Ward Mayor Marianne Meed Ward said: “The City of Burlington belongs to all of our residents, so it’s important when opportunities arise that our community shares their ideas, thoughts, feelings, feedback and questions with us.
“Thank you to all those who regularly share their input and engage with the City of Burlington, your Council and me through online surveys, our websites, newsletters, email and social media channels — we truly appreciate you taking the time out of your busy days and schedules to contribute to important local initiatives.”
By Pepper Parr
September 4th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
A “hearty” breakfast “among friends” at the Seniors’ Centre
A change in tone here.
 The Bistro, the heart of the Seniors’ centre There was a time when the seniors and the city administration were at loggerheads – the people representing the seniors were asked to vacate the office they had and the city took over.
Now there is an invitation to a “hearty” breakfast “among friends” at the Seniors’ Centre to celebrate community partners and their upcoming programming.
On Saturday, Sept. 14 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., the Breakfast @ the Bistro program will launch another exciting fall, winter and spring season where the monthly breakfast programs welcome the community to gather for a breakfast buffet followed by social time and entertainment. Community supporters who help to make this program possible will also be acknowledged.
Generous donations of time and funds offered by community partners including the Lions Club of Burlington, Revera Retirement Living, ComforCare and Bayshore Home Health will be recognized at the breakfast. The support provided by these sponsors helps to reduce the financial barriers that might otherwise prevent participation in Burlington Seniors’ Centre programming for some in our community.
The contribution of both financial support and volunteer time also allows the Burlington Seniors’ Centre to offer lively entertainment throughout the seasons such as Dixieland Plus, Silver Swing Band, Golden Horseshoe Women’s/Men’s Chorus along with Adult program choirs.
A good positive step – keep it up.
 By Staff
September 3rd, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
Most churches have an Outreach program. Some work with under-served groups in the city. Others focus on advocacy of some form.
 Port Nelson United Church – location of a speakers series on migration. The Port Nelson United Church and the Roseland Community Organization have come together to present their Compassionate Justice Speaker Series, MIGRATION: FROM GLOBAL TO LOCAL. This is obviously a topic of great interest and a conversation that is both relevant and necessary.
Included in the speakers list is the Mayor along with some highly qualified people. The first event is on the 26th – 7:00 pm.
Details on the events are set out below.
 By Staff
September 3rd, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
Motorists are reminded that thousands of cyclists will be out on Sunday September 8, 2019 from 7:00 am until 4:00 pm in north-west Milton and north Burlington areas. The cyclists will be part of the Epic Tour, which partners with Lighthouse for Grieving Children.
Britannia Road will be closed to all westbound traffic from Tremaine Road to Cedar Springs Road from approximately 7:00 am until just after 11:00 am. Eastbound will remain entirely open and north/southbound will only be allowed access when directed by an officer and when safe and clear.
Motorists are asked to avoid the area during the busy period along Britannia Road from 7:00 am to 11:00 am.
 Daunting – but there are rest stop along the way and a rescue service if you just can’t finish. What is the EPIC Tour?
A one-day granfondo road cycling event, held in Milton, Ontario on the beautiful fall roads of the Niagara escarpment.
The event starts and finishes at Kelso Conservation Area.
Epic Tour offers a variety of different routes, ranging from 50k to 180k in order to cater to cyclists of all abilities.
Whether you are a newbie just getting into road biking, an avid enthusiast looking to challenge yourself, or even a triathlete looking for a training ride, we’re the event for you!
Since 2013, we have always put the needs of our cyclists first, offering an extremely well-supported endurance event on terrific roads close to the GTA. Neither a pledge ride nor a race, Epic Tour is unique in that it’s a lifestyle event that promises a great day on the bike as well as a great post-ride off-the-bike experience!
 It all starts and finishes at the Kelso Conservation area. From start to finish, the EPIC people pride themselves in the top-notch support provided on event day. The day starts with a breakfast bar in the morning with coffee, bagels, and yogurt. Mechanics are available on site all morning for any last-minute tune-ups. While on the route, they have multiple rest stops – loaded with snacks, hydration, washrooms, mechanics and nurses – available for you if you need a break.
As well, if you have a mechanical issue or need to be picked up along the way, just give them a call and they will come to your rescue!
Upon return to Kelso Conservation Area, we have an awesome finish-line-festival that features live music, 40+ exhibitors, complimentary rider food, free massages and a free beer!
 By Pepper Parr
August 30th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
We saw the talent from Community Living when they were part of the Performing Arts Centre season launch event last May.
They were good, really good – they were fun, better at times than some of the other “professional” people on the stage.
 They are working with the Performing Arts Centre on what will be a fantastic show – one day only September 21st.
One of the reasons this show will be what it is going to be is the direction they will get from Rainer Noack, a man who has the ability to draw a performance out of almost anyone.
Rainer has been working at the Student Theatre for years where he has spotted talent and nurtured it to the point where it is ready for the stage.
 Rainer Noack He works mostly with young people – they love him. The performances he directs are filled with energy, sound, joy – and everyone has fun – including those watching the event.
Community Living is in place to enrich the quality of life and to promote full and meaningful inclusion in our community of people who have a developmental disability.
On the 21st of September they are going to enrich your life with a fine performance of wonderful talents.
These people have songs in their hearts and taps in the soles of their shoes – and they have both wit and humour that will make the evening well worth the cost of a ticket.
Performing Arts Centre, September 21st.
 By Pepper Parr
August 20th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
How much of their own money did 2018 election candidates put up?
Some surprises.
 Paul Sharman taking part in a ward 5 election debate. Got a free ride financially. Sharman contributed $0 to his own campaign! The $250 shown was the value of old election signs he used in his 2014 election campaign.
 Running in ward 6 where she held the seat in 2010 ans 2014 Lancaster chose not to spend any of her own money – and lost by 41 votes. Lancaster also contributed $0 to her own campaign! The $180 shown was the value of old election signs she used in her 2014 election campaign.
Mike Wallace took the gamble of his life and put up $25,000 of his own money.
The following people reported 0 campaign donations:
Garry Milne, Andrew Jordan, Jason Boelhouwer, Gerard Shkuda and Michael Jones.
The following candidates failed to file election spending reports. They will not be permitted to run in the next municipal election. Walter Wiebe, Peter Rusin and Darcy Hutzel.
The data used was taken from the election finance returns filed by the candidates. Any errors or commissions will be corrected. Some of the forms were hand-written and very difficult to read.
By Staff
August 19th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
A picture is said to be worth 1,000 words – How about $84,000?
 Food and funds – The Gift of Giving Back is both a lesson in civility and an opportunity to help others for Burlington students. That’s the amount raised by the Gift of Giving Back, a program that has been part of Burlington since 2005 and is now the largest such program in the country.
The total along with the presentation cheque and the obligatory photo op was sent out by the Mayor today.
Kudos to the people that make the program work.
 An astonishing record of community service on the part of the young athletes who do all the grunt work. Originally launched by the Burlington Eagles, the campaign has grown to include more than 85 male and female youth hockey teams from: The Burlington Girls Hockey Club (Barracudas), Burlington Eagles, as well as the Burlington Gymnastics Club.
Teams will be out in neighbourhoods across Burlington in the fall dropping off their iconic blue bags. If you receive one, please give generously as the food goes right to people in our community in need. Athletes are also tagging at various grocery store locations and can be identified with the Gift of Giving Back signs.
 By Staff
August 16th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
 The Sunshine Doughnut Company has created a delicious, limited edition, doughnut to promote the upcoming Exhibition Opening for The Gender Conspiracy on September 6!
Drop by Sunshine and pick up the “Express Yourself” doughnut along with your free tickets to the Night of Cabaret! Shunshine will be featuring this tasty masterpiece until the end of August, with limited quantities daily!
Night of Cabaret
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 | 7 TO 10 PM | Art Gallery of Burlington
Join us for the epic opening of The Gender Conspiracy with a night of performances and storytelling. The stage lights up with drag, spoken-word, burlesque dancing, and music by Manghoe Lassi, Ryan Persadie, Johleen, Zain Bandali, and DJ Zehra.
Bring the kids!
Drag stars Fay Slift + Fluffy Soufflé lead a read-along for families focusing on books, songs and lots of laughs to show that Reading is FUN-damental! The duo support families with LGBTQI2S parent(s) and gender variant children, and read culturally diverse books, by providing a supportive and inclusive environment focused on fun! Everyone is welcome!
Tickets at:
 By Staff
August 15th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
 Elder Garry Sault of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation shares a traditional smudging ceremony with Museums of Burlington Executive Director, Barb Teatero. A traditional Smudging Ceremony, led by Elder Garry Sault of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation took place yesterday as three levels of government, project funders and donors were given a preview of the transformed Joseph Brant Museum.
The museum will officially open to the public on Sunday, September 15, with a community celebration from noon to 4 p.m. at 1240 North Shore Blvd. E.
The celebration will feature tours, interactive exhibits, activities and an official ribbon cutting with Burlington Mayor Meed Ward.
The public will get to see newly appointed Director Kimberly Anne Watson, who was named to the position effective September 9th
The Joseph Brant Museum, that sat by itself on the land that was granted to Joseph Brant for his service to the British who he served as a Captain, was a 1937 replica of the house Brant, Thayendanegea, built on a 1798 Crown land grant.
The addition to the museum has been built into the grassy area under the previous museum which adds more than 12,000 square feet of space to the museum.
The hope is that the expansion will make the Museum a cultural destination and a place to host national exhibitions and the collection of artifacts.
The first travelling exhibit has been announced – it is a display of classic pinball machines from a museum in Cleveland which gives a whole new meaning to a cultural destination.
The transformed museum has been expanded to provide barrier-free space, including an elevator to the second-floor roof garden and the Brant home that will serve as administrative space. The expansion includes more room for gallery displays, interactive programming, the storage of collections and community outreach.
• Total square footage of expanded site: 17,000 square feet
• The total project amount is approved at about $11 million, which includes a contingency fund and allows for cost increases due to a winter construction period. Funding includes:
$2.9 million from the City of Burlington
$4.5 million from the Government of Canada
$1.5 million from the Province of Ontario
$2.5 million from the Joseph Brant Museum Foundation
The museum has 25,000 artifacts and receives about 18,000 visitors a year.
 The engraved gorget, the most impressive item in the museum collection. Joseph Brant, Thayendanegea, lived from 1742 to 1807. In 1798, the Mohawk and British captain was granted 3,450 acres at the head-of-the-lake (Burlington Bay) by King George III, who gave Brant an engraved gorget, the most impressive item in the museum collection.
The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of Democratic Institutions and MP for Burlington explains that: “Knowing our history helps us create a brighter future. I am proud to have been able to support the redevelopment of the Joseph Brant Museum which will provide Burlingtonians, and Canadians access to our community’s cultural heritage and improved access to our rich local history. I look forward to joining Burlingtonians to celebrate our culture at the Joseph Brant Museum for many years to come.”
Mayor Marianne Meed Ward said: “The Joseph Brant Museum transformation helps us to celebrate the important history of our First Nations’ people and culture, including Burlington founder Joseph Brant (Thayendanegea). I look forward to celebrating the opening of the museum with residents and visitors, and know they will enjoy it as our new major exhibition and heritage centre. It is a wonderful addition to Burlington’s vibrant waterfront.”
Meed Ward wasn’t always this positive about the decision to spend so much on the Museum – she was taken aback when she learned that the Brant home replica would be closed off to the public.
 Three levels of government, project funders and donors were given a preview of the transformed Joseph Brant Museum. Back row, L – R: Larry Waldron, Chair Joseph Brant Museum Board; Burlington MPP Jane McKenna; Museums of Burlington Executive Director, Barb Teatero; John Doyle, Chair of the Burlington Museums Foundation; The Honourable Karina Gould, MP for Burlington and Minister of Democratic Institutions; City of Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward. Front row: Elder Garry Sault of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation
By Pepper Parr
August 14th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
There was nothing unusual about the meeting that was called for people to hear what the ADI Group wanted to say about their next step on the controversial development to be located on the south west corner of Martha and Lakeshore Road.
 The Nautique – the ADI Group flagship development. Approval to build the 26 storey tower was given by the Ontario Municipal Board over the objections of the city. That approval was seen as the beginning of a process that has approved two other high rise towers and looks as if there could be as many as three others in the downtown core.
Eight months ago the ADI crew was drilling on the site to learn just where the water table was. Further down than many thought which has brought about a request for an additional level of underground parking.
One area resident told the Gazette that “It has come to our attention that ADI is requesting 7 levels of underground parking. The public was led to believe that it would be 6 levels. We questioned the wisdom of allowing 6 levels of underground parking so close to the Lake and now 7 levels are being asked for. It is difficult to believe that this will not cause any problems. The OMB appeal that the city lost, as far as I am aware did not grant 7 levels of underground parking so why is the city even considering this?
 “We were also told that those living on Martha Street should drive along Pine Street and then access Lakeshore by using Pearl Street. This is a disaster waiting to happen. Presently it is often difficult to exit our condo garage with traffic coming along Pearl Street. The Pearl and Pine Retirement Residence often has large delivery trucks parked in front, or their 14 passenger van, as well as ambulances and medical transport vehicles. That area is used to pick up and drop off residents daily.
“ Pine Street and Pearl Street are very narrow with on street parking and “sharrows”. Perhaps this is not the route that should be suggested, or at the very least remove the on street parking which will cause owners of businesses in the” live and work units” to become angry, and rightly so.
 Many wondered why the announcement was a joint venture from the ward Councillor, the city and the developer. The public has not seen public announcements like this previously. “It has been determined by staff that the “staging” cannot be on Martha Street, and this will happen on Lakeshore Road. Presently the eastbound lane on Lakeshore has been narrowed to accommodate the construction of The Bridgewater which is years behind in completion, now the westbound lane in the same area will be narrowed? Trucks waiting for fill will line up on Old Lakeshore Road, I have to question if the owners of the businesses on that street have been informed?
“Where will the construction workers park? In the public lots that are already filled to capacity? Perhaps ADI needs to contract space for their employees at the Burlington Centre with a shuttle to take them back and forth.”
Comments like that suggest that it is going to be a noisy meeting.
Then we learned that the meeting is scheduled from 6:30 to 7:30 pm at the Art Gallery. These meetings are usually scheduled for at least two hours. Why the short time frame?
The ward 2 Councillor seems to have gotten herself quite excited about the development. In her Construction is Happening announcement makes it sound like a major social event.
She is scheduled to appear on Cogeco TV’s news broadcast Tuesday evening.
 By Staff
August 13th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
They want your point of view and they are prepared to go to considerable lengths to hear what you have to say.
Earlier this year, Burlington City Council directed City staff to re-examine the downtown policies in Burlington’s adopted Official Plan, including the height and density of buildings. A vote to endorse any changes to the policies that will guide development in the downtown until 2031 will be made by City Council by March 2020.
 Taking a closer look at the downtown: Voices from across the city needed to help refine the policies in Burlington’s adopted Official Plan that will guide development in the downtown To include as many voices as possible in this important conversation about the future of the downtown, the City will host a series of public engagement opportunities designed to give the community the chance to provide meaningful input, both online and in person.
How to Participate
Residents and others interested in the re-examination of the downtown policies in the adopted Official Plan are encouraged to:
1. Visit www.getinvolvedburlington.ca to:
• Learn more about the re-examination of the downtown policies in the adopted Official Plan
• Read the engagement and communications plan supporting this project
• Sign up to receive project updates.
2. Lend Your Voice
To help identify what matters most about downtown Burlington, the City will host two Citizen Action Labs on Thursday, Aug. 22, 2019. At these in-person, public sessions, participants will work in small groups to discuss and identify what is most important to them about downtown Burlington. The feedback gathered will be used to inform the creation of two concepts of what the downtown could look like in the future. These concepts will be shared with the public in October for further review and input.
 Citizens taking part in a workshop that was looking for ways to better engage people. Citizen Action Labs: Taking a Closer Look at the Downtown
Thursday, Aug. 22
1 to 3 p.m.
or
7 to 9 p.m.
Art Gallery of Burlington, 1333 Lakeshore Rd.
3. Participate online
An online survey will be available until Aug. 30 at www.getinvolvedburlington.ca to share input about what matters most about downtown Burlington.
4. Drop by a pop-up event
Throughout the month of August, City staff will be visiting a variety of locations and events in the community to talk with residents and identify what is most important to them about downtown Burlington. A full list of locations and times will be available on www.getinvolvedburlington.ca
A copy of the engagement and communications plan that will be used to guide the community conversation about the re-examination of the downtown policies in the adopted Official Plan will be available to the public at www.getinvolvedburlington.ca.
 Chief Planner Heather MacDonald talking to citizens advocate Blair Smith at a developer presentation. Heather MacDonald, Director and Chief Planner, Department of City Building emphasizes that: “The City is committed to engaging people on issues that affect their lives and their city, and this commitment is reflected in publicly releasing the engagement and communication plan that will guide the conversation about the downtown policies in the adopted Official Plan.
“We know the planning structure is complex when it comes to long-term planning for the downtown. The engagement plan is designed to not only provide a roadmap of the engagement activities that will take place over the next few months but also highlight and clearly define which aspects of the downtown policies the City and public can influence, so that we can have productive dialogue and provide meaningful input about changes to the downtown policies.
“The downtown is the core of our city and we would really like to hear from as many different voices as possible, from right across the city, to help us identify what matters most about downtown Burlington.”
Quick Facts
• An Official Plan (OP) is a statutory document that describes the city’s long-term land use and infrastructure strategy, dealing with issues such as the form and location of new housing, industries, offices, shops and elements of complete communities like parks and open space.
In April 2018, City Council adopted a new Official Plan for Burlington.
• On Feb. 7, 2019, Burlington City Council voted to re-examine the policies in Burlington’s Official Plan, adopted in April 2018.
 It is a council that certainly knows what a photo op is. • On Monday, March 18, 2019, City staff and members of Burlington City Council discussed the scope of the work for further study at a Committee of the Whole workshop. Through the discussion, it was identified that while Council supports many of the policies in the adopted Official Plan, an area that requires targeted reconsideration is the Downtown Precinct Plan.
• On May 27, 2019 Council approved the work plan report and the terms of reference for the scoped re-examination of the adopted Official Plan.
• On June 11, 2019, A Committee of the Whole workshop was held to assist in the creation of a community engagement plan for the re-examination of the adopted Official Plan.
Links and Resources
Follow www.getinvolvedburlington.ca for updates and information about how to participate in the re-examination of the downtown policies in the adopted Official Plan
 By Pepper Parr
August 12th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
How did the weekend go?
It was a honey of a weekend – the weather worked and there were two events that were great – tough if you missed them.
Neither would have cost you a dime.
 Business was brisk and the choices were varied. Well curated.  Stephanie Finn On Saturday Stephanie Finn held her summer Burlington Made Pop UP event in the Village Square. The 35+ participants had a very healthy crowd hovering over the tables that were spread through the Village.
It was a curated event which meant that Finn interviewed every one of the participants. “I ended up turning away 80% of those that applied to take part” she said.
There is one more Summer Pop Up and a number of other events on schedule for the rest of the year.
Sunday, the second day of the Performing Arts Centre Jazz on the Patio program. Steven Taetz sang along with his quintet – you had to be there to appreciate it.
Kudos to Performing Arts for holding the event and a Tip of the Top Hat to the Downtown Business Association for sponsoring.
One bothersome item. There were far too many chairs that were not occupied. People were saving chairs for others who didn’t arrive or didn’t want to share their table. That left people standing who could have been seated.
The ushers could have taken people to those tables.
And – some umbrellas to shade listeners from the blazing sun.
The music however made it all worthwhile.
Listen to Steve – he performed this piece Sunday afternoon.
 By Pepper Parr
August 5th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
It is close to the best entertainment offering during the summer – the Performing Arts Centre Downtown Jazz Festival outdoor on the plaza August 10th and 11th – rain or shine.
When it does rain – and it has in the past – they just move everything inside to the grand Family Room.
 Jazz on thee Performing Arts Centre Plaza. The free event will feature an exciting line-up of Canadian jazz performers, as well as local talent, BBQ by Wendel Clark’s, and a beer tent by Shawn & Ed Brewing Company.
The weekend features free afternoon and early evening performances by the Shirantha Beddage Quartet, Thomas Carbou, Christine Tassan et les Imposteures, Steven Taetz, and Heather Bambrick & Jodi Proznick: East Meets West.
On Saturday, August 10th at 2pm Burlington’s own two-time JUNO nominee, baritone saxophonist Shirantha Beddage brings his brand of high-octane jazz back to BPAC. His original music combines hard bop and modern jazz to create a sound that is both accessible and sophisticated.
 les Imposteures One of Montreal’s best jazz guitarists, Thomas Carbou is scheduled to perform at 4pm. A renowned guitarist, composer, arranger, improviser, percussionist and sampler, he describes his unique style as electro-jazz. Christine Tassan et les Imposteures bring their special blend of Gypsy jazz and revisited cover songs to the Plaza at 6pm.
These four exquisitely talented musicians bring together some of the best works by Django Reinhardt, Félix Leclerc and American swing composers.
On Sunday, August 11th Steven Taetz, a Toronto-based vintage pop, swing, jazz singer and composer, will perform at 4pm. Steven has worked all around the world, from NYC’s Carnegie Hall to The Rogers Centre in Toronto and House of Jazz in Montreal.
 Heather Bambrick Heather Bambrick & Jodi Proznick: ‘East Meets West’ takes the stage at 6pm. Not only are Heather and Jodi considered two of Canada’s finest musicians, they are also JUNO nominees, full of brilliant music, and full-on entertainment. Heather Bambrick is a BPAC crowd favourite and audiences will be delighted by her most recent collaboration.
Beat the summer heat with a weekend of cool jazz entertainment at the 2019 Burlington Downtown Jazz Festival! There will be a beer tent on the Cogeco Garden Terrace operated by Shawn & Ed Brewing Company and barbeque offerings for sale by Wendel Clark’s Classic Grill and Bar. In addition to the headliners noted above, local musicians Tim Park and Karen Thornton will entertain audiences in between the scheduled performances.
The Burlington Downtown Jazz Festival happens rain or shine! In the event of inclement weather, the festival will move indoors to the BPAC Family Lobby. This is a truly inclusive event, as all entertainment is presented to the community free of charge. Some tables and chairs will be provided, but due to expected capacity crowds, it is recommended that participants bring their own seating.
 Shirantha Beddage The Burlington Downtown Jazz Festival
August 10 & 11, 2019
Shirantha Beddage Quartet, August 10, 2:00pm
Thomas Carbou, August 10, 4:00pm
Christine Tassan et les Imposteures, August 10, 6:00pm
Steven Taetz, August 11, 4:00pm
Heather Bambrick & Jodi Proznick: East Meets West, August 11, 6:00pm
 By Staff
August 1st, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
 In this portrait Joseph Brant is seen wearing the gorget given to him by King George III. That gorget is the most important piece in the collection at the Joseph Brant Museum. They call it the Civic Holiday at city hall – for the Museums of Burlington, the event at LaSalle Park has been known as the Joseph Brant Day in recognition of the contribution Brant made to the establishment of the city.
Events begin at 11:00 am and run through to 4:00 pm at LaSalle Park, FREE parking is available at Aldershot High School, 50 Fairwood Place West, Burlington.
Since 1980, Joseph Brant Day has been held at LaSalle Park on the Civic Holiday Monday in August. For over 30 years, the Museums of Burlington has presented this event that celebrates our local heritage, multiculturalism and community.
A new attraction this year will be the Children’s STEAM Zone, where kids will have fun being a Scientist, Technologist, Explorer, Athlete, and Mathematician with interactive activities. The Zone will connect with the newly renovated Joseph Brant Museum, and promote the Children’s Discovery Gallery “The Burlington STEAM Zone.”
Some event highlights include:
 One of the biggest gatherings of Food Truck operators the city gets to see – all at LaSalle Park. – Family-friendly entertainment
– Food truck rally
– Zorbit Sports bubble soccer
– Spin and win prizes
– Trampoline fun with Springfree Trampoline
– Water relay races with Bradbury Estate Realty
– La Salle Park Splash Pad (admission rates apply)
– Community displays
– Vendor market
– Quench cart (bring a refillable water bottle)
Celebrating Burlington’s Multi-Culturalism
Main Stage Entertainment:
 A pillow case race at a past Brant Day. 11:00 am – Opening ceremonies
11:30 am – Eagle Flight Singers and Dancers
12:30 pm – Halton Dance Network
1:30 pm – Chinese Performing Arts Society
2:30 pm – Caribbean Steel Drummer
3:15 pm – Bare Blue Sea Band
By Staff
July 19th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
While this is a Hamilton event – it is really interesting for Burlington residents; a Burlington Heights Tour of the battleground during the war of 1812.
Burlington was a big part of that even though the troops didn’t march through our streets.
The Dundurn National Historic Site is the focal point.
 This federal government plaque, erected at Burlington Heights, overlooking Burlington Bay got it wrong and Rick Wilson managed to get it corrected. The War of 1812 battles that took place on Lake Ontario were incorrectly explained on the plaque. The Hamilton Military Museum staff invite the public to join them for a dynamic guided 1812 tour of Dundurn National Historic Site for all ages on Jul. 28, Aug. 25 and Sept. 22 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at 610 York Blvd.
Pre-registration is required. Tickets are available online for $30 – price includes a family admission pass for a return visit.
 An aerial view of the Dundurn Castle grounds. Burlington Heights, where Dundurn Castle now stands, was occupied by the British military from 1813 through 1815. Participants will uncover the history surrounding the property and discover evidence of military fortifications in Dundurn Park including the rarely-opened Cockpit. The tour concludes with a look inside Dundurn Castle focusing on the 1812 architectural features.
Quick Facts
• Burlington Heights was an important centre of defense, supply and refuge for thousands of men, women and children connected to the British army, local militia, refugees, and First Nations during the War of 1812.
• On June 5, 1813, American forces marched from Niagara and set up camp at the Gage family homestead (Battlefield House).
• In the early morning hours of June 6, 700 British troops marched from Burlington Heights and defeated 3,000 American soldiers under the cover of darkness.
• Sir Allan MacNab incorporated some of the components of the 1812 fortification when he built his Italianate-style villa in the 1830s.
• This tour contains outdoor components; participants are asked to come dressed for the weather and prepared for walking on uneven terrain.
 By Pepper Parr
July 12th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
 Karina Gould, on the right, with some of her 2015 election campaign team. Karina Gould Campaign Kick Off & Office Opening will take place on Saturday, July 13th at 1pm.
Speeches will start at 1:15pm.
Location: 3485 Fairview Street
There wasn’t much more than that in the media release.
Expect a good turnout -Gould campaigns hard and has a solid team.
 By Pepper Parr
July 7th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
Elsewhere in the Gazette we report on the trip Mayor Meed Ward made to France to celebrate the landings on D Day 75 years ago.
Marianne Meed Ward wrote about the feelings she experienced during her five days in France.
Of the numerous things that came out of this was a strong interest in a twinning relationship with Courseulles-sur-Mer, France.
 Intricate gardens in Apeldoorn, Holland  Spring trees will bloom in Itabashi, Japan and hopefully in Burlington as well. Burlington is currently twinned with Apeldoorn in Holland and Itabashi in Japan which begs the question – just how many communities does Burlington want to be twinned with?
Is the cap on twinning three –or could it go to five?
 Film footage of Canadian soldiers racing for shore on June 6th 1944 Burlington’s relationship with Juno Beach, the site the Canadian Landing Craft rushed onto the beaches of France, with hundreds of Canadians soldiers aboard who, in many cases, raced ashore once the front ramp had been dropped and faced withering gunfire. Some didn’t get beyond the end of the ramp.
Her report to a COW Standing Committee directs the City Clerk, in cooperation with the Burlington Mundialization Committee to report back to Committee of the Whole in Q4 2019 with options for twinning with Courseulles-sur-Mer; and
It also directs the City Clerk to provide proposed criteria, for committee’s consideration, for future twinning relationships including consideration of a city in a developing country.
In the report Meed Ward said: “I believe it is essential to formalize and continue our relationship with Courseulles-sue-Mer and the Juno Beach Centre.
During her runs for city council and her run for the Office of Mayor, which she now holds, Meed Ward has also said that the city needs to focus on the “need to have” and not so much on the “nice to have”.
By Pepper Parr
July 4th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
What do you mean – it will be the final Poetry Slam. Final as in FINAL?
How did that happen? And why?
 But it is – taking place at the Nuvo on July 18th.
I first heard Tomy Bewick at an Installation Art show at the Waterfront Hotel.
There was this guy running up and down the hall way yelling his head off. I didn’t at first understand what he was doing or saying.
He disappeared around a corner – I didn’t see or hear from him again that night
The Installation Art was very progressive for Burlington.
The brunette stretched out nude face down across a Queen size bed with the tall, black, handsome dude standing over her had the hotel management edgy. They really didn’t want that exhibit to be “public”.
It was a one night event that brought out all the in the know people; not a politician in sight.
I next heard Tommy at the Black Bull on Guelph Line – torn down for a storage operation.
The Poetry Slam was a regular event – you could get a decent meal and hear some very good work and just get caught up with people.
When the Bull closed the Poetry Slam moved out to eastern Burlington, I think they were at the Windjammer.
 Tomy Bewick – on stage. Slammers from elsewhere would show up and do their thing – it wasn’t for everyone but it did have a core audience.
They are on at the Nuvo – will there be a bar?
Will decent food be available? If Tomy is ending this part of his contribution to the culture of the city – can we at least send him out with a bang!
By Staff
July 3rd, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
The event took place in the Gazebo in Spencer Smith Park. It was one of the quieter events on Canada Day but for those who raised their hands while reading the Oath it was a huge day in their lives.
 If you look closely in the far right hand corner there is a young girl with her hand raised – becoming a Canadian citizen. Those people had chosen to come to Canada – some from war torn parts of the world, other from just south of our border.
Immigrants built this country – ideally the people taking the Oath yesterday will build on what we have in place now.
It is really what the country is all about.
 Some questions: Are all those women Liberals, wearing the party colours? And where oh where did Dave Vollick, the Town Crier, get those stockings? Were you able to count the medals on that veterans chest? What a fine photograph of the people that represented the community in welcoming new Canadians to the country.
By Staff
July 2nd, 2109
BURLINGTON, ON
Getting an interview is just the first step.
Getting through the interview and telling your story is as important as getting yourself in front of someone.
 Getting to this point is hard work – getting through it requires skills some may not have – help is not available. Some younger people are naturals, they interview well. Others don’t have that gift and need to work on their presentation and interviewing skills. One of the key skills it to listen and answer the questions asked.
It’s a fact: Knowing how to answer the tough questions in a job interview in ways that are both honest and powerful can help impress the interviewer and land the job. While many candidates are aware of the power of proper preparation and showcasing their skills, many underestimate the importance of leaving a lasting, memorable impression of themselves. Skills and qualifications alone do not always make a candidate the obvious choice if their interview is not strong.
 So how do you deliver a strong, solid interview? Centre for Skills Development has a workshop dedicated to learning just that.
“In our Interviews That Impress workshop, we not only discuss what to do during an interview, but before and after as well. There’s also different types of interviews – over the phone, one-on-one, group interviews and panel – and different strategies should be used depending on which is being conducted,” says Jocelyn Zangao, Employment Advisor, Centre for Skills.
These workshops go over common questions that arise in interviews and some examples of how to answer each. Together, those in the workshop discuss the pros and cons of each response.
 The Centre occupies most of a building on the South Service Road with a wide range of educational offerings. “We want our clients to think through how they would approach the tougher questions,” says Jocelyn. “Bringing forward their past experiences from interviews and what difficulties they faced are helpful to the group as we can work our way through how to answer them more effectively moving forward.”
The workshop also goes over how a candidate should structure their answer, by using Situation-Action-Result Statements (SAR). “The way this works is that they answer the job interview question by using a real example of a situation they have been in; the action they took; and the ultimate result they got,” says Jocelyn. “This three-point method helps a candidate to avoid rambling or giving too brief an answer. It assists them in offering a stronger and tighter response.”
“Even those that consider themselves experts in interviews can learn from this workshop, as they can hear others’ experiences,” says Christine Young, Coordinator of Centre for Skills Clarkson and Milton Employment Services sites. “Job interviewing is about preparation, selling yourself and then evaluating your performance. Our staff can help with learning how to conduct company and industry specific research, performing mock interviews and even making suggestions on what to wear and navigating the route to your interview day of.”
The Interviews that Impress workshop for July in Burlington takes place on:
Tuesday, July 16, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
3350 South Service Road, Burlington
Click here to register for the next Interviews that Impress workshop in Burlington.
The Centre for Skills Development and Training is a stand alone not for profit organization that is overseen by the Halton District School Board and funded by different levels of government.
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