 By Staff
January 30th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
She has hit the ground running.
Mayor Marianne Meed Ward announced plans to launch and lead a Red Tape Red Carpet task force at this morning’s State of the City address at the Burlington Convention Centre and had a media release out before people got back to their desks.
 The Chamber of Commerce meeting was more than event to hear what the Mayor had to say; there was business to be done. In front of a sell-out crowd, (not quite – there were three empty seats at my table – maybe that’s because I was sitting at it?) the Mayor spoke about her plan to help eliminate the red tape and bureaucratic delays that Burlington businesses have faced in their pursuit of growth throughout the city.
The Task Force will begin with a broad meeting that is open to the public to raise specific issues and concerns on topics ranging from permits, approvals, and other obstacles. A smaller task force of stakeholders will then be identified to come up with actionable recommendations that will be brought to council and shared with the Province by summer.
Dates and details will be announced shortly, and the Mayor suggested that anyone interested in participating at the task force level can reach out to her via email at mayor@burlington.ca.
Co-chairing the task force with Mayor Meed Ward will be Kelvin Galbraith, Ward 1 Councillor.
Mayor Meed Ward said: “I’ve heard your concerns and I’m taking them seriously. As mayor, I consider it my job to make it easy to do business in Burlington, and to be the chief advocate of attracting new business and expanding current businesses throughout our city. To help create a place where people can live, work, and thrive.
What better timing to look at ways to improve our processes and drive efficiency than while a regional review is already underway by the Province. I’m delighted to have Kelvin Galbraith as my co-chair, with his wealth of experience as both a business owner and as chair of the Aldershot Village BIA.”
 Kelvin Galbraith has gone from being a small business owner to a city councilor and an expert on how to reduce red tape Councillor Galbraith sees the “task force is a great step towards addressing the obstacles business owners see when they look to expand or start a new business here in Burlington. We have the space, infrastructure, and talented work force to support them, we just need to fast-track the approvals and processes that limit and frustrate them. I know from first-hand experience that we can identify the low-hanging fruit and come up with some actionable solutions that will make a real difference. We want to let business owners know that Burlington is open for business!”
The State of the City address also touched on Mayor Meed Ward’s plans for the coming term and introduced the team of councillors she’ll be working with to make it all happen. Issues ranging from over-development and the Official Plan review, to traffic and transit, protecting greenspace, and restoring civility and respect at City Hall were just some of the priorities she covered in her speech.
Her top five priorities for the 2019-2023 term as she laid them out are:
Reasonable Growth, Not Overdevelopment
Reasonable growth, not overdevelopment by amending the downtown plan to limit more highrises; end overdevelopment across Burlington by sticking to zoning.
Get Traffic Moving, While Keeping it Safe
Better traffic flow and transit through improved traffic synchronization & intersections, transit routes, free seniors fares, and no road lane elimination.
Reduce Flood Risk, Enhance Greenspace
We must be prepared for flooding by dealing with root causes; not just effects by ending overdevelopment, keeping water at source with greenspace, and green infrastructure.
 Meed Ward said she trimmed her hair style to indicate that she was prepared to trim the budget as well. Reduce Tax Increases, Keep to Your Priorities
Reduce tax increases by cutting unnecessary administration; improving business attraction; investing in snowclearing, bylaw enforcement, road repair, family and seniors’ amenities.
Rebuild Trust, Create an Open Government
Rebuild trust between city hall and the public by including residents in shaping decisions, not just reacting to them; restoring civility on council and toward residents.
 By Pepper Parr
January 25th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
The works of that famous mime artist Marcel Marceau are lost to most of us.
 Trevor Copp as Marcel Marceau Trevor Copp is developing his skills and does an incredible Marceau performance. Copp doesn’t just do Marceau – he has extended the art of mime.
Marcel Marceau was a French actor and mime artist most famous for his stage persona as “Bip the Clown”. He referred to mime as the “art of silence”, and he performed professionally worldwide for over 60 years. He died in 2007.
Copp has picked up the art form and will be doing a performance on February 1st and 2nd at the
LIVELab ofMcMaster University; February 1 and 2 @ 7:30pm
Tix $15/$10 students. CLICK HERE for tix.
Directions/Parking Details – CLICK HERE
Copp has done this show before more than 8,000 people in the last year; audiences keep asking for more.
Reviews for TBT’s Mime Theatre
“A master of contemporary theatre….there is a sensitivity to the performance, an indefinable sense of risk taking that signals the true artist”
– Gary Smith, The Hamilton Spectator
“…inspirational cross-training for the soul… there is a deep seated need for this kind of physical art that people don’t even realize they have anymore. In the age of Netflix and downloads, return to the campfires of our primitive ancestors and feel how theatre first stirred our souls. And as a bonus, feel the incomparable magic of the man in the box bit done by someone who studied at the Marcel Marceau School in Paris and clearly knows what he’s doing.”
– Diane Lachapelle, Apt. 613 Blog
“He moves with beautiful fluency…simply too creative for words. Highly skilled….a fresh fusion between acting and modern dance”
– View magazine
Searching for Marceau is the story of a budding young artist trying to make sense of his two fathers: the real one raising him and the far away Marcel Marceau. The imaginary and the real battle in this theatre/mime piece that reinvents Marcel Marceau’s Mime tradition for the 21st Century.
Some examples of a Copp performance – short clips
Movement study: a bird flapping wings.
The old standard. I still get more requests for this than anything.
 By Staff
January 25th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton District School Board is hosting a two-day conference this spring where professionals, parents/guardians and community will learn about an educational approach for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
The conference, called The SCERTS Model: A Comprehensive Educational Approach for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Related Developmental Disabilities, will be held Wednesday, April 17 and Thursday, April 18, 2019 at the Burlington Convention Centre (1120 Burloak Drive, Burlington).
The conference features guest speaker Dr. Barry Prizant who is recognized as one of the leading scholars in autism spectrum disorders and communication disabilities. He has more than 40 years experience as a researcher and international consultant for individuals with autism and related disabilities. He is a certified Speech-Language Pathologist, an Adjunct Professor at Brown University and director of a private practice.
Formerly, Prizant was a Professor of Communication Disorders at Emerson College and Associate Professor of Psychiatry in the Brown University Medical School.
Mark Zonneveld, Superintendent of Education for the Halton District School Board is the lead on this project. The outcome for him is to “help our school and parent communities better understand Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and how we can effectively assist youth at school and at home.”
This presentation will provide an introduction to the SCERTS Model (Social Communication, Emotional Regulation and Transactional Support). The Model is a comprehensive evidence-based framework for prioritizing goals and implementing practices that focus on the core challenges in ASD: Social Communication, Emotional Regulation, and providing Transactional Support for children with ASD, and related social-communicative disabilities.
The SCERTS Model is a flexible and individualized approach that includes focusing on learning functional skills in everyday activities and is based on the unique learning style of persons with ASD.
In this workshop, assessment and intervention issues will be addressed for children with a wide range of developmental abilities and ages, including preverbal and verbal individuals, from preschool through elementary, middle, high school ages and adult services. Particular emphasis will be given to the core challenges faced by students with ASD and related abilities by emphasizing the interface between social, emotional and communication issues from a clinical and educational perspective.
The SCERTS Model has been implemented in more than a dozen countries in programs ranging from Early Intervention, school-age services and adult services.
Cost
Early Bird Registration (Received before Feb 15, 2019)
$395.00 (Includes Lunch)
Regular Registration (Received after Feb 15, 2019)
$425.00 (Includes Lunch)
For more information about the SCERTS conference and/or to register, click here.
 By Staff
January 22nd, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
The Hamilton Spectator recently did a front page feature on the Freeman Station.
The “Friends” of Freeman Station said it was a “terrific article to get our message out, and we thank Jeff Mahoney for that. Now we really need your help in 2019 to gather the last bit of funding to reach our goals.
Can you help us by becoming a member?”
 “As Lord Kitchener would have said, “Please visit our website at www.freemanstation.ca/store/ ” and become a member.
“Or have your name added to our wall of Whinstone donors by purchasing a stone for $100.
Prefer to come in person?
 The Station will be open on February 16 2019 from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm – we invite everyone to drop by.
 By Staff
January 21st, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
 How many people in Burlington remember this theatre that was on Lakeshore Road The City of Burlington’s Heritage Committee has been busy planning another exciting Heritage Month, that begins on February 1st.
There is an opportunity to learn more about the events and issues that have shaped Burlington and Canada by attending the informative sessions planned throughout the month.
Topics and events will include Black history, First Nations, Freeman Station, Burlington architecture, movies, panel discussions, stories and more. The full calendar listing is at bpl.on.ca and burlington.ca/calendar.
 Lower kitchen in Ireland House – it is a tour well worth the time. A kick-off event is planned for Friday, February 1st at St. John’s Anglican Church, 2464 Dundas from 1 to 2 p.m and at Ireland House Museum, 2168 Guelph Line from 2:30 to 4 p.m.)
1 p.m. – Greetings from Mayor Marianne Meed Ward; talks on St. John’s Cemetery, Burlington Agriculture and Oakridge Farm
2:30 p.m. – Refreshments (hot cider and freshly baked scones) and tours of Ireland House Museum.
Seating for this event is limited so please RSVP to arabellagore@gmail.com by Jan. 25, 2019.
Someone in the audience at the Ireland House presentation might want to ask the Mayor about the house she lives in on Martha Street; The Meed Ward family went to the effort to have their home designation as historically relevant.
Howard Bohan, Chair, Heritage Burlington that made this event possible worked with the Burlington Public Library, Museums of Burlington and the City of Burlington. He gives special thanks to the Burlington Heritage Month Committee and to Martha Hemphill of the United Empire Loyalists Association for her leadership.”
 By Staff
January 15th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
The City has invited residents to attend a public engagement session and hear one of the best thinkers on how to make urban settings work for people.
 Gil Penalosa, originator of the 8-80 cities’ concept Gil Penalosa, originator of the 8-80 cities’ concept will talk on an Urban Park Strategy for Burlington.
The City wants a strategy to guide the development of a strategy for the parks that will be located in the mobility hubs that are going to be a huge part of what the Burlington of the future is to look like.
ing an Urban Park Strategy to guide the development of parks to align with the city’s Mobility Hubs and a focus on urban growth areas.
The evening of education and engagement takes place on:
 Gil Penalosa will speak at one of the better parks in Burlington. Thursday, Jan. 31, 2019
7 to 9 p.m. – doors open at 6:30 p.m.
La Salle Pavilion, Main Ball Room, 2nd Level
50 North Shore Blvd., Burlington
The evening will start with a key note from Gil (Guillermo) Penalosa: Founder and Chair of 8 80 Cities, a Canadian based international non-profit organization, grounded on the concept of 8 80. What if everything we did in our cities had to be great for an 8-year-old and an 80-year-old?
His talk will focus on the features of great urban parks and public spaces that create a sense of community.
After the talk, residents will learn about the City’s work toward an Urban Park Strategy for Burlington and be given the chance to share their ideas on what these parks could look like.
Someone at city hall deserves a huge kudo for this one.
 By Staff
January 5th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Details are skimpy – just the date known at this point.
Walk Off the Earth will be holding a commemorative event on January 13th –location has yet to be announced, to celebrate the life and accomplishment of Mike “The Beard” Taylor who dies suddenly in December.
By Staff
January 4th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
For the Fifth year in a row the BURLINGTON COMEDY FESTIVAL will take place from February 24th – February 27th.
Several venues for the event; Pepperwoods, Art Gallery of Burlington and Emma’s Back Porch and The Water Street Cooker.
 “Skinny German Juggle Boy” The four-day event kicks off on Sunday February 24, 2019 with a Family Variety Show at the Art Gallery of Burlington. The variety show features international acts from Hilby “Skinny German Juggle Boy” to Ireland’s Jack Wise and the American comedic contortionist and daredevil Alakazam.
Tickets are $12.50 (or Family Pack of four: $40.00), doors open at 1:30 p.m. and the all-ages show begins at 2:00 p.m.
The Festival features over twelve comedians and variety acts performing five shows at two amazing venues tailor made for live stand-up: The Art Gallery of Burlington (AGB) and the iconic Water Street Cooker (2084 Old Lakeshore Road)
This year’s events are in partnership with The Gift of Giving Back, Canada’s largest community food drive which helps a dozen agencies serve their needy clients across the GTA. Donations of non-perishable goods and cash will be accepted at all shows.
 Derek Seguin, a CBC Just for Laughs regular. Evening performances begin on Monday February 25 at both The Water Street Cooker and AGB with an 8:00 show time at both venues. Headliners include Montreal-based Derek Seguin a Just for Laughs alumnus and Mark Forward, a series regular on Crave TV’s Letterkenny. The following evening our headliners switch venues with all tickets valued at $29.00.
Burlington Comedy Festival ends with a bang on Wednesday February 27th as we feature the “Best of the Fest” (tickets are $59.00) at the Art Gallery of Burlington, 8 p.m. start time. The seven comic line-up features gust host Gemini Award-winning actor/comedian Shaun Majumder and host of the hit show The Debaters on CBC Radio One –Steve Patterson.
Patrons are also encouraged to enjoy dinner and a show through a special deal at two of Downtown’s best eateries!
The best deals in town are the VIP Food & Funny Deals at Emma’s Back Porch and Pepperwood Bistro. They include admission to the reserved seating area and a $25 voucher for dinner at the participating restaurant. This package is $49.00 ($69.00 for the “Best of the Fest”).
 Tickets are now on sale for the 4th Annual Burlington Comedy Festival, presented by the Burlington Downtown Business Association. The Festival is in partnership with the Kitchener-Waterloo Comedy Festival and Port Credit Comedy Festival.
You can buy tickets in person in January at Emma’s Back Porch and Pepperwood Bistro.
Please note that the material is not censored and intended for a mature audience. Seating is general admission, no recordings are permitted.
For a full list of complete acts and to buy tickets online please log onto www.burlingtoncomedy.com
 Brian Dean, Executive Director, Burlington Downtown Business Association said: “After five years we are more convinced than ever that there is a strong appetite for professional comedy in Burlington. The Festival helps us to showcase our thriving small business community by bringing crowds to the downtown core for laughs and great hospitality.
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 By Staff
January 4th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
The Sound of Music Festival has announced another band that will be part of their 40th anniversary Kick off that will take place June 8th.
HEADSTONES will be joining +LIVE+ and BUSH as part of this year’s June 8th kick-off line-up.
 In a media release the Festival staff commented: “When we look back on all of our kick-off concerts, one of the most iconic performances came from Headstones! Hugh Dillon in the crowd, the energy they brought, ranks as one of the best performances the festival has ever seen. To celebrate our 5th kick-off and 40th anniversary, we can’t wait for Headstones to blow the roof off the place!!”, says the programming team.
Executive Director, Myles D. Rusak added to the hype: “You asked for it and we listened! We’re so excited to welcome back by popular demand, Headstones! The energy these guys bring to the lineup is just the icing on an already nicely frosted cake! Our 40th is shaping up to be a year to remember so grab your tickets and join us for a celebration that we’ll be talking about for the next 40 years!”,
The one day kick-off concert takes place five days before we open the doors to Canada’s Largest Free Music Festival (June 13-16, 2019). Past artists have included Weezer, The Offspring, The Cult, Sublime with Rome, Simple Plan, All-American Rejects, Our Lady Peace, and dozens more.
Tickets are on SALE NOW. Grab your tickets before they sell out! Prices will go up.
• ADULT $75
• YOUTH $25
• VIP $110
• FrontRow $110
The Festival is currently recruiting volunteers. Visit soundofmusic.ca/volunteers if you are interested in applying.
The SoM will not be the same with the unexpected passing of Walk off the Earth band member Mike Taylor:
 Mayor Marianne Meed Ward issued a statement on behalf of city council on the sudden death of Mike, saying
“We are all deeply saddened to hear of the sudden death of Mike Taylor. Our city joins together in mourning this tragic loss, and sending condolences to Mike’s family, band mates, friends and fans at home and around the world.”
Flags at Burlington City Hall were lowered to half mast in Mike’s honour.
Mike and his family made their home in downtown Burlington. “You have left us with a rich musical legacy. Thank you Mike for your contribution to music here and around the world. We will truly miss you.” added the Mayor.
By Staff
January 4th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
They have been doing it for a number of years and on a few occasions there have been some stunning window displays to add to the mood, tone and feel of the downtown streets during the festive season.
This year – there were a couple of clunkers – what were they thinking?
No need to call them out – fortunately for the judges, as esteemed as they were, their names were not published.
The Burlington Downtown Business Association announced the 2018 winning displays:
 The Candle Light Stroll gave people an opportunity to see many of the different window displays.
Best Window/Exterior (professional): Joelle’s
Honourable Mention: Scrivener’s Men’s Apparel
Best Window/Exterior (non-professional): Lola’s Choco Bar and Sweet House
Honourable Mention: Wendel Clark’s Classic Grill & Bar
Best Interior Design: Pearl & Pine Retirement
Honourable Mention: Stoner & Company, Family Law Associates
Best Restaurant/Eatery: Water Street Cooker
Honourable Mention: La Creme de la Creme Creamery Inc
Best Interior/Window Display (service provider): La Viva Hair Studio
Honourable Mention: Dollface Beauty Bar
Burlington Hydro Conservation Award: The Burlington Charcoal Pit
Honourable Mentions: Dollface Beauty Bar & Centro
BEST OVERALL: Centro Garden. Centro seldom fails to outdo itself.
 The winners and the Honourable mentions. The response to the opportunity to decorate the store fronts along Brant and John street and some of the adjacent streets has been a bit sporadic. Some of the commercial establishments, especially those in hospitality have been really limp – a string of lights was it at some locations. Not all of them but enough to make the lack of participation evident.
With well decorated store fronts and innovative, creative ideas people want to get out on the streets – and if they are on the streets they can walk in.
Let’s see what they can do in 2020.
 By Pepper Parr
January 4th, 2019
BURLINGTON, ON
Levees were once a large part of the way the social side of Ontario worked.
The Lt Governor held a New Year’s Day Levee at Queen’s Park every year; it was a command performance for anyone that mattered.
They were not partisan events – politicians of almost every political stripe were welcome. In the 40’s, 50’s and 50’s the Communist Party members weren’t exactly welcome but other than that – it was the community getting together at its very best.
 Karina Gould at one of her New Year’s Day Levees, congratulating a couple who recently became Canadian citizens Burlington MP Karina Gould teamed up with then Burlington MPP Eleanor McMahon to hold a Levee at the Art Gallery. At the time the then Mayor didn’t take part in the event.
The military types showed up in their blue blazers with medals on their chests.
Some of the Guilds that work out of the Art Gallery were in the room doing their hooking or their carving.
The event reminded us of a note we got several months ago from a Terry Wilson who used to deliver the Spectator on Delaware Street.
Wilson was commenting on the way Delaware Street gets closed down on Halloween saying:
“I collected many Halloween treats up and down this street, 60 years ago. My paper route ran all the way from the Lakeshore to New Street. 35 Cents a week as I remember for the Spec delivered to your door. I had about 40 customers who would all pay me in coins.
“One day, while collecting from Mrs. Jupp, at 391, my weighed down pants fell down! She giggled, and got me some binder twine to use as a belt, so I could continue on my way.
“Burlington was such a wonderful town then, you knew mostly every one, if not by name, by seeing them about town. It was another time.
It certainly was.
Municipalities across the province held a levee and any community that had an Armoury was certain to have a well-attended event where the toasts were frequent.
The idea of a New Year’s Day Levee fell out of favour.
 Jane McKenna, Burlington MPP This year Karina Gould is holding her Levee on January 6th at the Art Gallery between 1 and 4 pm – she isn’t being joined by our MPP, Jane McKenna, which is unfortunate.
McKenna is holding her own Levee on January 12th at her Constituency office on Brock Street. Takes place from 1-4 pm on the Saturday.
We asked Mayor Meed Ward if she had any plans for a Levee and she said she wasn’t able to get that on to her schedule this year but expected to do something in 2020. She did add that Burlington has held an annual New Years event at Tansley Woods for a number of years.
 The more recent levees have been packed events – and the speeches, with an exception or two, were fun and mercifully short. Burlington happens to be a city where every political leadership level, except for the Region, is led by a woman.
There was an opportunity for the three woman to join forces and put on a single event that would have all the political stripes in the one room to share, celebrate and toast what has been achieved in the past and what can be done in the future.
Perhaps 2020 will see a different form of cooperation between the political leadership. Something to look forward to – let’s not miss another opportunity to show who we really are
.
By Staff
December 7th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The following revised Santa 5k race route and road closures.
 Santa 5k Road Closures, 6 to 11 a.m.
Brant Street, from Ontario Street to Elgin Street
James Street, from John Street to Brant Street
Road Closures, 8:30 to 11 a.m.
Lakeshore Road, from Elizabeth Street to Maple Avenue
Burlington Avenue, from Lakeshore Road to Elgin Street
Elgin Street, from Nelson Avenue to Burlington Avenue
Nelson Avenue, from Elgin Street to Lakeshore Road
Brant Street, from Ontario Street to Lakeshore Road
Route Supervision
• Halton Regional Police Service will direct traffic at major intersections and event marshals will help runners and motorists at multi-residential driveways and on side streets
• Event notices were delivered to all residences, religious centres and businesses affected by the event
Questions
If you have any questions about the road closures or traffic control, please contact the City of Burlington event liaison at 905-335-7600, ext. 7201.
By Pepper Parr
December 7th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
We are not yet into winter – but the Sound of Music folks want you to plan for the summer and take a look at the headliner they have signed up for the 40th anniversary.
They have announced that the first co-headliner for the 2019 Kick-Off Concert will be BUSH who are celebrating 25 years since the debut of their multi-platinum album ’16 Stone’.
 BUSH to be part of the headline events for the start of the Sound of Music 2019 Kick Off event. Free concerts part of the SoM begin on June 13th. In an enthusiastic set of statements the SoM Executive Director, Myles D. Rusak said: “This truly is an exciting time for the Festival. Our goal is to see not only the Festival itself grow; but the entire entity that is the Sound of Music.
“Our kick-off generates critical resources that will allow us to realize this vision and in turn better support the Arts Community at large. You are going to see some amazing announcements and new initiatives to celebrate our 40th anniversary which in turn will pave the way for the next chapter that is the Sound of Music.”
The one day kick-off concert takes place five days before we open the proverbial doors to Canada’s Largest Free Music Festival -June 13-16, 2019.
Tickets are on sale now. Grab your tickets before Tier 1 quantities sell out. Prices will go up when Tier 2 pricing kicks in.
• ADULT $60
• YOUTH $25
• VIP $95
• FrontRow $95
The Kick off events, usually all ticketed events takes place five days earlier.
The Festival is currently recruiting for volunteers.
Visit soundofmusic.ca/volunteers if you are interested in applying.
By Staff
November 26th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Lowville Festival, the festival of all the arts for the artist in all of us, is presenting a special fundraising concert on Saturday December 1st, 2018. Lowville Lit Up will feature a broad range of performers from Burlington and environs, all of whom will be donating their efforts in support of the Festival.
 Burlington folk singer-songwriter Andy Griffiths Featured artists include legendary Hamilton singer, Jude Johnson, who was born in Burlington; young Burlington country singer-songwriter Hayley Verrall; Kate Madden, a recent graduate of the Sheridan College Musical Theatre Program in Oakville; Toronto baritone Lawrence Cotton, who was featured in last summer’s Truth and Illusion; Burlington folk singer-songwriter Andy Griffiths; Burlington musical theatre performer Paul Mark, who has appeared on Broadway; and pianist Michael Mulrooney, a veteran of numerous theatrical productions across Canada, who is currently Music Director at Tansley United Church.
 Eric Trask with his wife Loretta Bailey doing a practice script reading. Lowville performers appearing in the concert include actor Eric Trask, who has appeared in presentations at a couple of past Lowville Festivals, including A.R. Gurney’s Love Letters. Eric will be doing a reading from a story by the late great Canadian storyteller Stuart McLean. The Major 7th Band, comprised of musicians from Lowville and environs, who have also been featured in Festival performances, will bring their unique mix of Celtic and folk songs to the evening.
 Robert Missen and Lorretta Bailey, Founding Co-Artistic Directors of the Lowville Festival. Robert Missen and Lorretta Bailey, Founding Co-Artistic Directors of the Lowville Festival, will serve as Hosts. The concert will conclude with a number of popular singalong carols.
The concert takes place at St. George’s Anglican Church Hall, 7051 Guelph Line, north of Derry Road, at 7:30 pm on Saturday December 1st, 2018. Tickets for the concert are $25 in advance, $30 at the door and available at Different Drummer Books and by phone at 289 337 9520
LOWVILLE LIT UP
A BENEFIT CONCERT FOR THE LOWVILLE FESTIVAL
SATURDAY DECEMBER 1ST, 2018
7:30 PM
ST. GEORGE’S ANGLICAN HALL
7051 GUELPH LINE, LOWVILLE
TICKETS $25 in advance/$30 at the door
AVAILABLE AT DIFFERENT DRUMMER BOOKS AND AT 289 337 9520
For more information contact Robert Missen at 905-632-6047 or rmissen@sympatico.ca .
By Staff
November 25th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Royal Botanical Gardens’ (RBG) David Braley and Nancy Gordon Rock Garden has been transformed into a winter wonderland this holiday season, with Winter Lights at the Rock, an evening holiday experience (6pm to 9pm) taking place Thursday to Sunday from November 17 to December 30.
 As part of the Holiday Tradition, RBG’s annual holiday celebration, Winter Lights at the Rock leads visitors through a 1-kilometre trail of festive lights and Christmas melodies and includes admission to the Escarpment Train Exhibit. This unique holiday experience provides visitors with a special evening to capture those perfect holiday memories in the beauty of the picturesque Rock Garden.
 Highlights include nightly entertainment around the fire pit and a rotating menu of small snacks and warm drinks, including warm Bavarian pretzels, Belgian sugar waffles, cookies, hot chocolate and festive adult beverages. Select dates will feature local food trucks serving up popular street foods and snacks.
The Escarpment Train Exhibit is a “G scale” model train experience that depicts four seasons of whimsical Canadian landscapes while telling the story of how railroads shaped our history. The exhibit illustrates three eras of locomotion history including the steam engines of the late 1800s, the streamliners of the 1930s and the powerful modern diesels of the 1960s up to present day.
Tickets:
Regular Admission (online) $10
Member Admission (online) $9
Regular Admission (at the door) $15
Infant (age 0-2) FREE
Entertainment
Stick around and enjoy the sounds of the holiday season with entertainment in the beautifully lit Rock Garden throughout the evening.
November 17, December 1, 2, 8, 15, 16
Tanisha Boyd
November 22, 23, 25, 29
Michael Maguire
 High Five Quartet November 30
High Five Quartet
December 6, 13, 20
Lavish Quartet
December 9, 27, 28, 29, 30
Claudia Gennaccaro (duets with Caitlin Collingwood)
Throughout the Event
MollyCake Bakery Gingerbread Village
Food and Drink
Grab some festive sips and bites to enjoy as you wander the garden! The team at the Rock Garden Café will be serving a rotating menu of small snacks and warm drinks available for purchase.
Select dates will also feature local food trucks with warm snacks and meals for purchase:
November 17, 18, 25, December 9, 15, 21
Get Your Own Taters
November 22 and 23
Aegean Honey Balls
November 30, December 1, 2, 8
Spring Loaded
 Chocco Churros November 29, December 20
Chocco Churros
December 13, 16
Beaver Tails
December 22, 23, 27, 28, 29
Curbside Dogs
Winter Lights at the Rock is sponsored by Colliers Project Leaders.
By Pepper Parr
November 23rd, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police is holding Cram-A-Cruiser events across Halton Region next Saturday as part of the annual Toys for Tots – Miracle on Main Street toy drive.
Police officers and volunteers will be accepting new unwrapped toys, cash, gift cards (great for teens) or Canadian Tire money for the Toys for Tots – Miracle on Main Street initiative.
 Cramming a cruiser When:
Saturday, December 1, 2018
Where:
Canadian Tire – 5070 Appleby Line, Burlington (11:00 am – 3:00 pm)
Canadian Tire – 777 Guelph Line, Burlington (11:00 am – 3:00 pm)
Canadian Tire – 2510 Hyde Park Gate, Oakville (11:00 am – 3:00 pm)
Canadian Tire – 1100 Kerr Street, Oakville (11:00 am – 3:00 pm)
Canadian Tire – 1210 Steeles Avenue East, Milton (11:00 am – 3:00 pm)
Toronto Premium Outlets – 13850 Steeles Avenue West, Milton (11:00 am – 3:00 pm)
Woodbine Mohawk Park Racetrack – 9430 Guelph Line, Campbellville (5:00 pm – 8:00 pm)
Canadian Tire – 315 Guelph Street, Georgetown (11:00 am – 3:00 pm)
Georgetown Marketplace – 280 Guelph Street, Georgetown (11:00 am – 3:00 pm)
Follow the events on twitter throughout the day for updates at @HaltonPolice.
For further information regarding the event in your District please contact:
Milton/Georgetown: Constable Maureen Andrew (Maureen.Andrew@haltonpolice.ca)
Oakville: Constable Ashley Lilliman (Ashley.Lilliman@haltonpolice.ca)
Burlington: Constable Ann Robertson (Ann.Roberston@haltonpolice.ca)
As we enter the holiday season, our focus becomes the hustle and bustle of shopping, dinner parties and family gatherings. As joyous as this season is, there are many families in Halton Region who struggle to provide their children with that special gift on Christmas morning.
Please bring your children to meet our officers and tour a police cruiser! Help us fill as many cruisers as possible and put a toy under the tree for a needy child this Christmas.
By Pepper Parr
November 23rd, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
If you didn’t know it before – you know now.
You cannot get in to the Main Stage Theatre at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre (BPAC) on December 3rd to witness the Inauguration of the new city council without a ticket.
You get a ticket at the Performing Arts Centre Box office or by going on line.
The tickets were available on line at noon today.
 Without a ticket like this you will not get in to witness the Inauguration of the new city council Someone somewhere didn’t realize that the Performing Arts Centre was holding a Black Friday ticket Sale with good discounts.
No word yet if there were line up issues.
Going on line for tickets is very easy for regular theatre goers who have a BPAC account.
If you don’t have an account you have to create one on-line and then order your ticket.
The one good piece of news is that the tickets are free.
The Main Theatre has a capacity of about 720.
What happens if more than 720 citizens want to witness this Burlington history changing event?
 Without a ticket – you won’t get one of these seats. The tickets are free. There will be a reception in the Family Hall after the swearing in. Some food, provided by local caterers, will be available and the bar will be open for adult beverages.
There doesn’t appear to be a limit on the number of tickets you can order – someone might choose to get 50 and scalp the ones they don’t need.
By Staff
November 19th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington New Millennium Orchestra conducted by maestro Charles Cozens, is performing at Compass Point Bible Church, 1500 Kerns Road, on Saturday, November 24th, 2018 at 7:00 p.m.
 Tickets are $49 Premium, $39 Adult and $22 Youth 18 and under.
Available through our website or call 416.616.1098
https://www.burlingtonnewmillenniumorchestra.com
The Burlington New Millennium Orchestra (BNMO) is a professional orchestra comprised of highly respected musicians and talented soloists whose performances are comparable to those of the Canadian Opera Company, the Metropolitan Opera and other leading orchestras.
Charles Cozens: arranger, composer and orchestrator
Charles Cozens is the driving force of the Burlington New Millennium Orchestra a contemporary chamber orchestra specializing in a broad based non-classical repertoire. Highly acclaimed as an arranger, composer and orchestrator he is best known for his compelling symphony shows, featuring arrangements for full orchestra performed by artists that include Sir Elton John, Randy Bachman, The Nylons, Mark Masri and more. He is also an accomplished orchestral and theatrical conductor, pianist, accordionist, and CD producer.
Family Holiday Concert
The evening also includes celebrated guests Lindsay Barrett, Soprano; Peter Barrett, Baritone; Internationally acclaimed Hamilton Children’s Choir and Simone Caruso, Soprano plus a special appearance from Santa Claus!
Lindsay Barrett – Soprano
Lindsay Barrett attended the University of Toronto’s Opera School receiving the Tecumseh Sherman Rogers Graduating Scholarship. Her credits include performances with Off Centre Music; Saskatoon Opera; Highlands Opera Studio; and U of T Orchestra. Lindsay is currently an artist with the Canadian Opera Company.
Peter Barrett – Baritone
Recipient of the Ian Rosenblatt Bursary at the Wexford Festival in Ireland and a top prize winner in the Montreal International Music Competition, baritone Peter Barrett is one of Canada’s most important new faces on the opera and concert stage.
Peter Barrett has performed with the Canadian Opera Company, Newfoundland Symphony, Brooklyn Academy, Metropolitan Opera, Minnesota Opera, Opera Hamilton, Newfoundland Symphony and Vancouver Opera.
Hamilton Children’s Choir
Hamilton Children’s Choir, enjoys its reputation for being one of the leading children’s choral programs in the world. Going far beyond technical excellence, the choir lead by Music Director, Zimfira Poloz, consistently dazzles audiences with its focused sound, brilliant repertoire, and captivating stage presence.
Celebrating over 40 years of choral singing, the Hamilton Children’s Choir has grown to include six choral groups and approximately 200 young singers aged 3 to 18. The HCC’s Ilumini choir has shared the stage with world renowned international artists, including Celine Dion at the 1999 Juno Awards and more recently, internationally acclaimed a capella group, Rajaton.
In addition, HCC is an active part of the thriving local arts community, performing with the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra, the Hamilton Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, the Bach Elgar Choir, the Toronto Northern Lights, TorQ, Chorus Niagara, Young Voices Toronto and the Canadian Male Orpheus Male Choir.
The HCC has also performed at the Choirs & Organ Concert at Roy Thomson Hall, enjoyed special performances at the Haida Celebration, Ontario Sings, and at Hamilton TiCats games.
Simone Caruso
Simone Caruso, started singing, dancing and playing piano at the age of nine. She then went on to achieve all her Royal Conservatory of Music certifications, performed for five years with the Hamilton Children’s Choir, beat out more than 130 competitors for a spot at the 2009 Canadian Youth Talent Competition and become a finalist for Hamilton Teen Idol.
In 2017, Simone Caruso launched her debut album. Described as a “classical crossover,” Only Love is a mix of both original and previously recorded songs, compiled with the assistance of Juno nominated arranger/composer Charles T. Cozens.
 Don’t Miss this amazing concert!
The concert is at 7:00 p.m. Saturday, November 24th, 2018 at Compass Point Bible Church, 1500 Kerns Road, Burlington, Ontario L7P 3A7.
Tickets are $49 Premium, $39 Adult and $22 Youth 18 and under.
Available through our website or call 416.616.1098
BurlingtonNewMilleniumOrchestra.com
BURLINGTON NEW MILLENNIUM ORCHESTRA
Burlington New Millennium Orchestra present unique concerts featuring talented professional performing artists from the local, national and international arts communities. BNMO present a fusion of cutting-edge digital music technology integrated with traditional instrumentation that redefines the concert going experience.
By Staff
November 19th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Holiday magic returns Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) with Holiday Traditions, RBG’s annual seasonal celebration, entertaining visitors from Saturday, November 17th to January 6th.
North Pole adventures at Hendrie Park include Visits with Santa (drop-in, Wednesdays, November 21 to December 19, Fridays November 23 and December 7), and Santa’s Signature Experience (November 17 to December 23), a separately ticketed event including an hour of programming, and a return trip on the RBG Express train experience.
 Escarpment Train Exhibit takes place in the old Tea House at the Rock Garden. At the picturesque David Braley and Nancy Gordon Rock Garden, Winter Lights at the Rock leads visitors through a winter wonderland with thousands of festive lights, Christmas melodies, food and drink around the firepit and the Escarpment Train Exhibit. This unique holiday experience provides a special evening to capture those perfect holiday memories.
Holiday Traditions is also home to three train experiences. In addition to the RBG Express ride-on train, Canada’s largest botanical train show at RBG Centre features numerous Canadian landmarks constructed from over seven tons of cedar slabs, 3,000 pounds of rock and 250 feet of track, and nestled amongst hundreds of live plants.
The Escarpment Train Exhibit at Rock Garden is the newest locomotive attraction, a “G scale” model set that illustrates three eras of locomotion history. The Escarpment Train Exhibit is available as part of general admission on weekends, or as part of Winter Lights at the Rock.
Weekends are filled with seasonal activities, children’s entertainment and local school and adult choirs. Special events include two evenings of Fest of Ales, a unique celebration of craft beer (December 6 and 7), Brunch with Santa (December 8, 9 and 16), and evening entertainment as part of Winter Lights at the Rock. Winter Lights at the Rock is sponsored by Colliers Project Leaders.
Winter Lights at the Rock
Thursdays to Sundays*, November 17 to December 30 (*some date restrictions apply)
6 to 9 p.m.; Rock Garden
Tickets required: rbg.ca/winterlights
Botanical Train Display
November 17 to January 6
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; RBG Centre
Included in general admission or membership. rbg.ca/trains
 Escarpment Train Exhibit Escarpment Train Exhibit
Weekends, November 17 to December 24
10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Rock Garden
Included in general admission or membership. rbg.ca/trains
Entertainment: Cartoon Bob
Saturday and Sunday
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; RBG Centre
Included in general admission or membership.
See weekend entertainment schedule at rbg.ca/holiday-entertainment
Storytime
Saturday and Sunday
10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; RBG Centre
Included in general admission or membership.
See weekend activity schedule at rbg.ca/holiday-activities
 Winter Walks Winter Walks
Saturday and Sunday
11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.; Hendrie Park
Included in general admission or membership.
Train Scavenger Hunts / Activity Book
Daily
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; RBG Centre
Included in general admission or membership.
 By Staff
November 19th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The Festival of Trees is going to light up the Family Lobby of the Performing Arts Centre from November 22 through to December 20
The lobby will be lit up with a colourful and festive display of trees that is sure to spark some yuletide enthusiasm in anyone that visits. This is the 2nd Annual joint community fundraising initiative by The Burlington Performing Arts Centre (BPAC) and the Arts & Culture Council of Burlington (ACCOB).
The twenty five – 6-foot, pre-lit artificial Christmas trees are all generously donated by Canadian Tire – Burlington Stores.
Raffle Tickets can be purchased in person in the BPAC Family Lobby: 1 ticket for $2, 3 tickets for $5, 7 tickets for $10
Each Christmas Tree is sponsored and decorated by a local business or organization within the Burlington community. Patrons and visitors to BPAC will have the opportunity to take one of these trees home by purchasing raffle tickets for the Festival of Trees draw.
 An Andy Kim Christmas December 20th.
All trees will be raffled off and winners announced during intermission on Thursday, December 20 at The Andy Kim Christmas show. Proceeds benefit the BPAC/ACCOB Community Studio Theatre Initiative, which provides greater access to BPAC for local community performing arts organizations. The proceeds will be used to cover the base rent of the Community Studio Theatre at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre for 4 days in 2019.
Stop by BPAC to take a stroll through the Festival of Trees and light up your holidays. There will be feature surprise performances and fun activities for the whole family.
The Performing Arts Centre will be open daily from 12pm to 4pm, and prior to evening performances, throughout the Festival, with extended hours based on Lobby activity.
BPAC and the Arts & Culture Council of Burlington extend their sincere appreciation and special thanks to Canadian Tire – Burlington Stores for their generous donation of all of the Christmas Trees in the Festival and to the following community businesses and organizations for their generous sponsorship of the trees: 27th Orchard Scout Troup, A Different Drummer Books, Aldershot Village BIA, Members of the Burlington Network Group, Bodhi Bar, Burlington Beach Rentals, Museums of Burlington, Century 21 Dreams Inc. – Rebecca Keddy, Conservation Halton, Cori Arthurs Floral Design, Harmony Jewellers, Hayley Verrall Music and Artist Leah Verrall, Holland Park Garden Nursery, Joelle’s & Jeff’s Guyshop, Long & McQuade Burlington, Mirella’s Ladies Boutique, Molly Cake, Mrs. B’s Gifthouse, Nancy Brewer Professional Corporation, S. Taylor Jewellery Appraisal & Consultation, Ti Vesto and Tourism Burlington.
The Holiday programming at the Performing Arts Centre includes:
John McDermott Christmas with Special Guests Dala December 2,
 Lightwire Theater: A Very Electric Christmas December 5, Lightwire Theater: A Very Electric Christmas December 5,
National Ballet Theatre of Odessa’s The Nutcracker December 7 & 8,
A Next Generation Leahy Christmas December 13, and
The Andy Kim Christmas December 20.
All BPAC Presents Holiday performances are generously sponsored by Cogeco.
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