Mariam Manaa, Liberal candidate for Burlington in the June 2nd provincial election
The Gazette interviewed Manaa when she was seeking the Liberal nomination – it was a contested nomination and she came out on top.
Other than the Chamber of Commerce event there was never a chance for the public to hear all the candidates – that was the result of the Progressive Conservative Party deciding that their candidates would not take part and instead rely on Premier Doug Ford’s coat tails to get elected.
Candidate Manaa listening
Our interview with Mariam Manaa yesterday gave us a look at some of the experience she has in the world of politics and public service.
As a young woman she was invited to be part of the Youth Council that Oakville North Burlington Liberal Pam Damoff created. Young people had the opportunity to gain some self-confidence and learn just how a Member of Parliament works.
She was seen as a smart cookie by Damoff who hired her to work in Ottawa as part of her team.
Manaa picked up a lot of really solid background on the processes that are involved in getting legislation passed. She also picked up a lot of the lingo used by the political set. “I worked on the hill for a period of time” said Manaa.
When that opportunity came to an end she was then asked by Burlington Member of Parliament Karina Gould to do some case work for her in Burlington. Work with a member of Cabinet is a big deal for up and coming politicians.
She spent two years with Gould.
This is as good as it gets when getting ready to seek public office.
In our conversation with Manaa she didn’t say all that much about the Liberal policy for the province – what she talked about was the campaigning – that essential door to door work – meeting people and listening to their concerns.
Every politicians will tell you they love going door to door – some are much better than others at it.
Candidates meet on the door step: NDP Andrew Drummond, Liberal Marian Manaa
Early in the campaign Manaa and the team with her knocked on a door that was opened by the NDP candidate Andrew Drummond.
He was as surprised as she was
During the last long weekend Manaa said she knocked on 4000 doors during the three days.
I asked her a question that a gentleman should not ask a woman – how much weight have you lost during the campaign. She came back with “I don’t know if I lost any weight but I can tell you I have muscled up quite a bit.”
Manaa is direct, focused, empathetic, fully aware of what is ahead of her if she wins. She is not a policy wonk – she is there to serve.
How will you serve the people of Burlington if you are elected. “I will do what I have learned to do – listen to what they have to say.
“When people get to an MPP’s office they are usually at the end of their rope. They have tired everything else and often as a last resort they visit the politician and see if they can help.
“That’s the job” said Manaa
She stresses that if she is elected she will see herself as being elected to serve all the people of the city.
And with that, a quick handshake, and she was off to knock on new doors
This is an election where two of the candidates are new to the election game.
Progressive Conservative Natalie Pierre and Liberal Mariam Manaa have never served as elected officials and this is their first election.
There are three fringe candidates. New Blue candidate Allison McKenzie, Green Party candidate Kyle Hutton and an Ontario Party candidate we have not heard from
Andrew Drummond has never served; this is his third attempt to get elected as a New Democrat.
Given the array of gaming options available in the modern world, more and more people are discovering the benefits of gaming. Be it through an Amazon Fire Stick, a mobile gaming product, or a hugely powerful PlayStation 5 console machine, gaming is the preferred entertainment option for many of us.
Of course, like most recreational activities, gaming should be enjoyed in moderation and striking a balance is key, but once you get there, there are some proven ways in which enjoying an array of games can actually be good for you. Whether you’re playing first-person shooter classics like Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare or simple puzzle games, there is a variety of proven benefits.
Gaming is a broad church these days. Some people like toplay live casino games,whereas others go for big-budget console and PC games. Gaming could be playing something like Wordle in the New York Times every day. But whatever it is you do, it is the activity that counts. Not all of it is beneficial, of course. As they say – everything in moderation.
For instance, certain games are said to improve a range of cognitive skills, as well as helping with social skills. Throw in the fun and entertainment that can be had through a variety of gaming products, and it’s easy to see why the world’s population is filled with so many gamers.
In the past, we have tended to hear that gaming can be potentially harmful, perhaps leading to violence or even growth in certain street crimes, but this appears not to be true in general. In fact, according to the American Psychological Association, there is strong evidence to suggest that gaming can actually be good for you. For instance, the research shows that gaming can benefit an individual both socially and health-wise while also providing learning along the way. Alongside this, there are some other additional reasons why gaming can be beneficial to a person. Let’s take a look at some more of them below.
Gamers can make friends around the world
Given gaming’s global appeal and the modern-day communication tools gamers can access while enjoying a gaming session, more and more people are connecting through a variety of titles. In the past, these types of opportunities were not available to gamers, but with the emergence of online gaming and an array of additional accessories, gaming is more sociable than it ever has been.
Gamers face a truly challenging set of obstacles to overcome, which, in turn, can improve coordination and strategic thinking. .
From Britain to Burlington, gamers are enjoying an array of products and teaming up with fellow players. As a result of shared Fortnite sessions and Pokemon Go trading marathons, gamers are making friends with other gamers around the world.
Gaming can improve your strategic skills
For people who perhaps aren’t too clued up on gaming and what exactly specific titles entail, playing games can seem like plenty of running around for no real reason. In truth, it’s the total opposite, especially when assessing some specific products that require a great deal of strategic thinking. Fact is, many games require skill, coordination and strategic play to succeed. It could even be argued that some levels on certain titles are essentially real-time board games in more detail, therefore giving gamers a truly challenging set of obstacles to overcome, which, in turn, can improve a variety of things, such as coordination and strategic planning.
Gaming can help people blow off some stream
Most importantly of all, gaming is fun and entertaining. A benefit of such pleasure and entertainment is an improved all-around mood and a perfect way to unwind after a stressful day at work. As stated already, specific titles require planning and can be tricky, but overall, gaming is a fantastic option for people who want to socialise with friends, have some fun, switch off from life’s trials and tribulations, and generally just blow off some steam.
Other entertainment options can offer a similar experience too, but gaming is the favoured choice for many people these days.
The new normal – we are seeing more and more of it in the community.
The hospitality sector took a terrible beating – some just disappeared others will struggle for years to recover what they lost during the 20 months of very very dire times.
The arts didn’t fare that much better. The smaller groups did what little they could; the Art Gallery and the Performing Arts Centre survived because they were publicly funded.
Two groups have reappeared. Drury Lane Theatre has a production (I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE) on the go June 3rd to the 26th; and and KooGle has a production that hits the stage this evening and runs to the 29th.
Matthew Pichocki as the baker with his wife
KooGle is in the finals stages of opening the curtains.
We spent some time when KooGle was doing a bit of a dress rehearsal and a run through of Into the Woods Jr.
Matthew Pichocki explained the Jr to me. “The full length play gets a little dark during the second half, we are doing the shorter version – thus the Jr.
The story is about a husband and wife who want children; there is a wicked witch and four things the couple has to do to have the witch remove the curse that was on the house of the couple that wanted children They were bakers.
In order to have the baby they wanted the baker and his wife had to go into the woods and find four things.
That cow is certainly white
A cow as white as a milk
A cape as red as blood
Hair as yellow as corn
Slippers that gleamed of gold
The baker and his wife meet these demands – there was a time limit and that is the mystery of the story that those in the theatre will take home with them.
KooGle has been had an active youth program since 2017. They didn’t have a home for a number of years – just before the pandemic took over the lives of all of us they found as location that was perfect and once they felt the worst of the pandemic was behind them they signed the lease.
Putnam County Spelling Bee was very well received.
In the past KooGle has put on some exceptionally fine work – their version of the Putnam County Spelling Bee was very well received.
During the pandemic KooGle actually pulled off doing Cinderella virtually. Perfect, certainly not but as Matthew explained it was an experience and was more like a movie – a lot of the acting ended up on the cutting room floor.
Leslie and Christopher Gray
In January KooGle put out a call for people who wanted to take part in a theatrical production. There were then classes in dance, voice and singing.
These were classes followed by a workshop out of which came the selecting of the cast and crew for Into the Woods.
A dress rehearsal means finding something that fits.
Leslie Gray and her husband Christopher were professional performers who thought Burlington needed a place where young people could train and take part in theatrical productions.
The young people that become part of a production quickly become a team where they support each other – watching them as the wait for their turn in a rehearsal you see how they work together – they learn, they are in a safe environment and they have fun.
In the worlds of theatre you eat when you can.
The students range from 8 to 18; some have been with KooGle since 2017. KooGle was formed in 2008. Several are looking at careers in theatre others want to teach drama at high school.
The next opportunity for new students to get a taste for theatre is a workshop in June.
The city’s Communications department had some concerns about wording we used to describe what we referred to as a self inflicted wound. There are some subjects that are very sensitive and we decided to remove a phrase we used. Other than that – the story stands. We changed the date as well from the 20th to the 26th.
Sometimes things don’t work out the way you want them to.
The decision to get public feedback on the city decision to sell the sports field to the west of Central High school has, to be polite about it, hit a speed bump.
The words transparency and engagement seemed to have been lost by the city communications people. They are now falling over themselves trying to back out of a survey that wasn’t thought out all that well.
The tweet on the right, sent out earlier today, is kind of embarrassing.
City Manager Tim Commisso is reported to be putting together a public meeting to pass along more in the way of information. What isn’t clear at this point is – will it be a joint meeting with the Board of Education or is the city going to have to wear this one all by itself.
What is so perplexing is that the rush that has been behind all this just wasn’t necessary – these are self inflicted wounds – the people who put together the survey need to really think through what took place and look for different approaches to what is a serious problem.
There is a public that is confused and angry.
City manager Tim Commisso needs to get a grip on this issue. It is close to being totally out of control. There are tens of millions involved.
If you make it through the provincial election there is light hearted relieve for you.
Burlington’s Drury Lane Theatre is bringing I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE to the stage.
The production begins Friday, June 3rd and shows continue through Sunday, June 26th.
I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE is the longest running off-Broadway revue in history. This celebration of the mating game takes on the truths and myths behind the contemporary conundrum known as “the relationship.” Act I explores the journey from dating and waiting to love and marriage, while Act II reveals the agonies and triumphs of in-laws and newborns, trips in the family car and pick-up techniques of the geriatric set. This hilarious revue pays tribute to those who have loved and lost, to those who have fallen on their face at the portal of romance, and to those who have dared to ask, “Say, what are you doing Saturday night?”
Invite your favourite person to join you in the comfortable cabaret setting at The Loft at Drury Lane on New Street. Enjoy a beverage from our licensed bar while watching the show and celebrate your own “perfect” relationships! Tickets are on sale at www.DruryLane.ca and by calling our Box Office at 905-637-3979.
The Drive thru worked well the past two years. Rotary will do it again on Victoria Day and plan for the traditional event in September.
Canada’s Largest Ribfest, a fundraising initiative of Burlington Rotary Lakeshore, will be holding a taste of summer kickoff on Victoria Day in the Burlington Centre parking lot.
The public is invited to stop by the Burlington Centre parking lot, at 777 Guelph Line from 10am to 7pm to experience the fun and flavour from the comfort and convenience of your vehicle.
Brent Paszt, a Past President of Rotary Burlington Lakeshore, and Co-Chair ofthe Ribfest this year said: “While we are looking forward to our eventual return to Spencer Smith Park for our traditional annual Labour Day Weekend event, the need in our community remains great. So what better way for us to maintain the spirit of our Ribfest alive by delivering delicious ribs & great local entertainment and at the same time help Rotary Burlington Lakeshore support local charities in need.”
The Ribfest has a loyal following, and there has been tremendous support for our Drive-thru Ribfests the past 2 years. While we all want to be back in Spencer Smith Park at the end of summer, our guests understand the need to adapt and have embraced our drive-thru alternative.” added Jay Bridle, Co-Chair of the Ribfest this year
Guests are asked to enter Burlington Centre from the Fairview Street entrance and will remain in their vehicles for the duration of their visit. Food vendors will take orders and payment (cards preferred) and will deliver each completed order to your vehicle.
Gloves and masks will be worn by all staff, vendors, and volunteers.
Four award-winning rib teams in attendance will include Camp 31 BBQ, Billy Bones BBQ, Sticky Fingers & Uncle Sam’s BBQ Stand. Cogeco will once again be onsite offering their crowd favourite take home bbq spice to the first 1500 vehicles as well we welcome new sponsor Mosey & Mosey who will make sure your steering wheels remain ribsauce free by providing wet wipes for our guests. The event will also include live music for guests to enjoy while they wait in the comfort and safety of their vehicles.
We are heading into a long weekend – people will be out and about looking for interesting things to do.
Freeman station is one of the best attractions in the city. Check it out. A past article will tell you all about the set up in the lower level of the building.
Queen of Great Britain and Ireland, Empress of India
Victoria Day: What’s open and closed at the City of Burlington
Burlington administrative services will be closed for Victoria Day on Monday, May 23.
For a list of which City services and facilities are available on the Victoria Day holiday, please see the summary below or visit burlington.ca
*Important information regarding COVID-19: The information provided below is accurate as of May 17, 2022. In the event of any changes made by the Province of Ontario to current COVID-19 public health measures, please visit burlington.ca/coronavirusfor potential impacts to City services and programs.
City Service
Holiday Closure Information
Animal Services
The Animal Shelter at 2424 Industrial St. remains closed to the public due to COVID-19.
To report an animal control-related emergency, call 905-335-3030 or visit www.burlington.ca/animal.
Burlington Transit
Burlington Transit will operate a Sunday schedule on Victoria Day. For real-time bus information and schedules visit myride.burlingtontransit.ca.
The downtown terminal at 430 John St. and Specialized Dispatch will be closed on Monday, May 23.
City Hall
The Service Burlington counter, temporarily located on the third floor at 390 Brant St., beside City Hall, will be closed to all appointments and walk-in service on Monday, May 23.
Court administration counter services at 4085 Palladium Way will be closed on Monday, May 23.
With the exception of the Victoria Day closure, telephone payments are available at 905-637-1274, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. All in-person services are available from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Many services are also available by email at burlingtoncourt@burlington.ca or online at Halton Court Services.
Parking
Free parking is available downtown, on the street, in municipal lots and in the parking garage (414 Locust St.) on weekends and holidays, including Victoria Day.
NOTE:
The Waterfront parking lots (east and west at 1286 Lakeshore Rd) do not provide free parking on statutory holidays.
Paid parking, on weekends only, at Beachway Park (1100 Lakeshore Rd) begins Saturday, May 21 using HONK Mobile.
Please make an online reservation using Park Pass to visit Lowville Park. Reservations are free and available in three-hour time slots.
Parking exemptions are required to park overnight on city streets and for longer than five hours. Visit burlington.ca/parkingexemptions
Recreation Programs and Facilities
Drop-In Recreation Activities
Indoor drop-in activities such as swimming, skating, and gym times are offered on a reduced schedule over the Victoria Day long weekend.Drop-in recreational and lap swimming is available on Victoria Day Monday at Angela Coughlan Pool, at 2425 Upper Middle Rd. Registering online to reserve your spot is recommended. In-person, walk-up admissions are accepted where program capacity allows.Drop-in programs go on sale online seven days in advance for residents, and three days in advance for non-residents. Please visit burlington.ca/dropinandplay for a complete listing of programs times and online registration.Splash Pads Opening
The City’s nine splash pads will be opening Saturday, May 21. For a list of locations, visit burlington.ca/splashpads.Outdoor Activities
Burlington has a wide variety of outdoor activities to enjoy with your family during the long weekend including:
trails and multi-use paths
parks and playgrounds.
picnic site reservations for La Salle or Hidden Valley Park
Golf
Tyandaga Golf Course is open for the season and tee times can be booked online at tyandagagolf.com or by calling 905-336-0005, ext. 2.
Play Lending Library
Our Lending Library has a variety of outdoor and indoor play equipment available to borrow at no charge. From archery to wiffle ball, and Kanjam to pickleball – check out burlington.ca/playlending for details.
Roads, Parks and Forestry
The administrative office will be closed on Monday, May 23. Essential services will be provided as required.
Burlington is a city where people, nature and businesses thrive. Sign up to learn more about Burlington at Burlington.ca/Enews and follow @CityBurlington on social media.
The community is going to have to get used to supporting those Ukrainians who arrive in Canada for some time.
Most arrive with their papers and a single suitcase with children in tow.
Canada may accept as many as 10,000 refugees, some will stay and become Canadian citizens.
For the immediate future we are going to have to give them the essentials, support them while they adapt and adjust.
And that requires federal support, provincial support, municipal support and cold hard cash that can be handed out.
Saturday afternoon a small crowd filled barely half of the pews at St.Christophers xxx Church on Guelph Line to listen to:
Jeff Madden, who starred as Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys and Kevin in the ensemble cast of Come From Away, showed was a consummate professional can do. Andrea Battista is a violinist with the Burlington Symphony Orchestra and Chair of the Burlington Arts and Culture Council of Burlington accompanied Jeff Madden on the piano.
Cozens playing the accordion while Maier actually got a pleasant sound out of a saw.
Charles Cozens and Colin Maier are the duo, JoyRide. Cozens, a renown accordionist performed while Maier, who plays 14 different instruments, including a household saw bought at a Home Hardware store. He pulled an interesting version of Ava Maria out of the piece of metal and a bow string.
A young child plucks out a tune with members of a six part ensemble.
GuZheng Group presents young people on the Chinese Zither, a harpsichord-like instrument. Dressed in traditional costumes, this ensemble is amazing to watch.
Several Ukrainian churches have pulled together a choir to perform.
A Bandura duo performed on the traditional Ukrainian lute-like instrument.
The closing act was the the young company of the Tyrsa Ukrainian Dancers. They make your blood run faster.
A young woman playing the Zither.
The event raised $1500 – every little bit counts.
The audience was asked to remain masked during the performances
There will be other events – and in time, when the Ukrainians fighters prevail and the Russians leave the country – the world will have to pull together and help rebuild the country. The devastation is almost beyond imagination.
Right now we have to take care of the people who have arrived in Canada.
The Saturday event was put on by One Burlington in co-operation with the Ukrainian Catholic Church of the Holy Protection of the Mother of God.
One Burlington has been presenting events since 2017. It is dedicated to bringing people together to learn more about each other to create understanding and acceptance. Their website is at oneburlington.net
The federal government has chartered three aircraft to bring Ukrainian refugees to Canada.
Across the country local groups are holding events to raise funds.
Tyrsa Ukrainian Dancers.
This weekend there will be a One Burlington event, the group that celebrates faith, culture and embraces diversity; they are hosting a fund raising concert for Ukraine
The event will take place at St. Christopher’s Anglican Church on Saturday, May 14, 2022 – 2:00 pm
Several Ukrainian churches have pulled together a choir to perform. .
A Bandura duo will perform on this traditional Ukrainian lute-like instrument. The closing act will be a presentation by the young company of the Tyrsa Ukrainian Dancers.
The funds raised will go to the Canada Ukraine Foundation.
On Sunday, May 15th, 2022 resident at a Mapleview condo are exhibiting art work; the proceeds will be donated to Ukrainian refugees.
Lynda Jones, part of that group that painted aluminian cut outs of the maple leaf with different designs. They sold out all of them at $750 each.
The event on Sunday is being put together by the same people. They have about 150 painting that will be sold with every penny going to the Ukrainian Council of Canada.
The group have been putting poster up all over town promoting the event. They were delighted when Starbucks took in a poster. “We spend an hour a day handing out posters said Jones who added that “the painting on sale are priced well below the rate they would normally get.”
There is a security gate at the condo – just press the button – tell security you are going to the art show in the party room. There is outdoor parking for about 50 vehicles.
This Saturday, May 14th from 10am to 2pm in conjunction with BurlingtonGreen, at the Burlington Centre (Mall), in the community room they call The Hub.
Burlington has hundreds, maybe even thousands of people who took early retirement or put in their 25 years and stopped punching a clock – and are looking for something to do that appeals to their better selves.
Some serve on committees, others join service clubs and others come up with an idea of their own and look for ways to make it happen.
That s what resulted with the Repair Cafe. With a little bit of seed money the team is able to rent some space and invite people to bring in their broken household appliances which they team does their best to fix free. All the person with that broken hair drier has to do is pay for any parts.
The 2022-23 Performing Arts season will be announced on May 31st. The demand for tickets hits a peak the week after – everone knows will be on stage and they want tickets.
The stage curtains will open May 31 and the season will begin.
The Performing Arts Centre in Burlington has a unique ticket sales plan.
You can buy a ticket for an event anytime you want – the unique part of their approach is that once a year they hold an event at which they announce their program for the coming season.
In order to attend that event you have to be a member. An opportunity to buy a membership is set out below.
Immediately after the Season announcement people take their programs and head to the ticket booths to place their orders.
It is an approach that works.
On May 31st, they will be holding their Season Launch. A new season of concerts, theatre, dance, comedy, variety, illusion, and family programming will be promoted and explained – you might even get a taste of what is scheduled.
. There is only one way to be invited to the 22/23 season launch May 31 – be a BPAC member. ClickHERE
A dark theatre is not what Tammy Fox had in mind – at the end of the month she will announce what we can all look forward to.
BPAC Executive Director Tammy Fox explains what she has planned. “After not being able to host a full, in-person season launch in three years, it is such a thrill to be back hosting our members again in our space.
“Next Season’s lineup has something for everyone, from famous faces to exciting concerts, to one-of-a-kind spectacles and intimate performances.”
“This is the best time to become a member or renew your membership, so you can be here for all the excitement on Season Launch night, May 31.”
“Burlington’s hottest ticket of the season will be hosted by none other than award-winning comedian and BPAC favourite Seán Cullen.
To unveil its newest Season of entertainment.
Sean Cullen – he will take the Season announcements through a lively night of its all about show business.
Having Cullen on the stage will be an improvement over some of the really dismal and disappointing season launch events in the past. None of the Tammy Fox events were bummers – her decision to call in Cullen was a smart move.
Membership Benefits
Only BPAC Members are invited to our amazing 22/23 Season Launch. Members also enjoy other benefits such as advance notice and front-of-line ticket access, discounts on all ‘BPAC Presents’ tickets, exclusive access to our Members’ Lounge, free ticket offers to select performances, recognition in our playbill, discounts from local business partners in downtown Burlington, and more!
Two Performing Arts members going through the catalogue for a season and deciding what they want to attend. Sales are brisk Announcement night.
With four membership levels to choose from, there is a BPAC membership for every budget.
Become a BPAC Member or renew your Membership today to receive an invitation to the 22/23 Season Launch and exclusive front-of-the-line ticketing access to the 22/23 Season!
Join as a Platinum or Gold Member and reserve your preferred tickets before the Launch to ensure you are enjoying each show from your favourite seat in the House!
The panel consists of subject experts that will guide a conversation on income security issues in advance of the election in Ontario on June 2. Minimum wage, social assistance, basic income, employment precarity, and childcare, are all on the docket for this important discussion.
This stuff matters – this is the time to get informed.
SPEAKERS
Tom Cooper, Director, Hamilton Roundtable for Poverty Reduction
Carolyn Ferns, Public Policy Coordinator, Ontario Coalition for Better Child Care
Pam Frache, Organizer, Workers’ Action Centre, and Coordinator, Justice for Workers campaign
Social media is one of the communication channels that gets a bad wrap.
The politicians will complain loud and publicly that social media is misused and abused and then do just that – exploit what can be done with Twitter and a Facebook account.
These boats will stay where they are until the 17th – while the city scrambles to find a way to put insurance coverage in place.
Former American president Donald Trump was an artist with the way he manipulated messages and created a following of millions until he was banned from Twitter.
Last week the city was presented with a really messy situation at the LaSalle Park Marina. Boats could not be put into the water because required insurance could not be put in place.
Burlington’s Mayor is heavily invested in the marina issue. She chose to support the installation of a needed wave break and convinced the rest of council to go along with pulling $4 million out of the Hydro Reserve Fund to pay for the wave break.
The insurance problem was something someone should have been on top of – but that is spilled milk
The boaters need a fast response which may not be something the city bureaucracy can deliver – municipal government just doesn’t work that way.
Mayor Meed Ward put out a note on social media saying:
Ward 1 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith needs all the help he can get in his re-election bid. The Mayor will support him – returning the favours he has done for her.
That Tweet didn’t quite square with the recommendation that was debated at Council. Someone at city hall has put out a more moderate message.
A more moderate message was posted about an hour later.
What the public doesn’t need is politicians exploiting a serious problem.
Director of Parks Recreation and Culture Chris Glenn did a good job of managing the issue during the debate.
Staff from Legal set out what the insurance problem is and what will have to be done to get insurance coverage in place.
There is a very real chance that the boaters may lose their boating season.
There are reports that some members of the LPMA have pulled out and are looking for a place to locate their boat. The problem with that is – there isn’t that much capacity in the immediate area.
It took city council hours of listening to deletions from two bingo game operators, who both wanted the Burlington market, which was described as prime by one of the bingo game operators.
When there is more time to write we will explain the complexities of bingo game operations – which are charity based.
A bingo operator must have sponsors from the charitable sector.
How much do they charities get – they get 45% of the proceeds.
Community members needed to join the Mountainside Pool Revitalization Public Art Steering Committee
The city’s public art program is looking for community members to join the Steering Committee for the Mountainside Pool Revitalization Project public art mural.
Rendering of what the pool and the shade area would look like
The Steering Committee will provide input into project goals and themes, create a shortlist from the applicants and the winning artist.
The public art program is commissioning a professional artist to paint a mural as part of this project. This revitalization will create a new attractive, fun and welcoming multi-use outdoor swimming pool. The goal is to revitalize the Mountainside Pool so it is inviting and encourages participation through swimming and water play while fostering an active and healthy lifestyle.
Three artists will be shortlisted to create preliminary design concepts for the public review and comment. The community Steering Committee will evaluate the public feedback plus the technical proposal to select the winning artist.
The pool is heavily used.
Steering Committee Roles & Responsibilities
• Attend a project start-up meeting (online) to brainstorm project goals and themes
• Review and score artist proposals to select a shortlist of three artists
• Review design proposals and public feedback of three short-listed artists to select winning artist
• All scoring can be done remotely using an online submission system. Jury meetings will be held via videoconference
Honorarium
Steering Committee members will be given an honorarium of $200 as a token of appreciation for their time commitment and participation in the project.
Time Commitment
• Three meetings via videoconference
o Project Start-up: one hour
o Select Shortlist: two hours
o Select Winning Proposal: two hours
• Review and score artist submissions: this task can be done remotely using an online review system (approximately five hours)
Project Timeline Deadline Activity
May/June 2022 Meeting #1: project start-up meeting (videoconference)
September 2022 Review and score artist proposals (online)
October 2022 Meeting #2: Select shortlist (videoconference)
January 2023 Public consultation
February 2023 Review and score shortlisted design proposals and public feedback (online)
March 2023 Meeting #3: Select winning artist (videoconference)
May/June 2023 Artwork installation and unveiling
Some art work would certainly help this entrance
How to Apply
Interested applicants should send:
1. Their name
2. Contact Information
1. address
2. phone
3. email
3. And a brief statement outlining why they are interested in joining the Steering Committee (250 words maximum)
Applications should be submitted to Kim Selman at kim@cobaltconnects.ca or at burlingtonpublicart.com/get-involved/jury-roster/ before Friday, May 6.
For more information, please visit www.burlington.ca/publicart.
Councillor Sharman speaking to Angela Paparazzo
Angela Paparizo, Manager of Arts and Culture explains what this initiative is all about.
“Not only is this a great opportunity for an artist to design and create a beautiful mural for the revitalized Mountainside Pool, it is also an exciting opportunity for residents to join the steering committee to help us select the right artist for this project. I welcome anyone who is thinking about applying to contact us with any questions.
Residents are encouraged to submit their applications before May 6. It is my hope that Burlington residents will get involved in this opportunity to choose an artist and evaluate the mural submissions for Mountainside.”
One Burlington, the group that celebrates faith, culture and embraces diversity. is hosting a fund raising concert for Ukraine
The event will take place at St. Christopher’s Anglican Church on Saturday, May 14, 2022 – 2:00 pm
The funds raised will go to the Canada Ukraine Foundation.
Members of the Ukrainian community filled Civic Square awhile ago – things in their country have not gotten any better. Continued support is badly needed.
A suggested donation of $20 per person would be appreciated. For those who might want to donate in advance the CU Foundation website A tax-receipt will be issued.
Several professional artists are donating their talents for this important cause.
Charles Cozens has more than 150 CD’s in circulation.
Jeff Madden, tenor, will be performing uplifting material from the American musical theatre songbook. Mr. Madden starred as Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys and Kevin in the ensemble cast of Come From Away.
Charles Cozens and Colin Maier are the duo, JoyRide.
Cozens is a renown accordionist, Maier plays numerous instruments in this dynamic duo.
Andrea Battista is a violinist with the Burlington Symphony Orchestra and Chair of the Burlington Arts and Culture Council of Burlington. She will accompany Jeff Madden and entertain us with a solo performance on the piano.
There are several performances by local groups as well
GuZheng Group presents young people on the Chinese Zither, a harpsichord-like instrument. Dressed in traditional costumes, this ensemble is amazing to watch.
Several Ukrainian churches have pulled together a choir to perform. .
A Bandura duo will perform on this traditional Ukrainian lute-like instrument. The closing act will be a presentation by the young company of the Tyrsa Ukrainian Dancers.
Tyrsa Ukrainian Dancers.
Fabulously dressed in embroidered shirts, bright red skirts and pants and ribboned caps, these young people will raise spirits and smiles as well as funds!
One Burlington is organizing this event in co-operation with the Ukrainian Catholic Church of the Holy Protection of the Mother of God.
One Burlington has been presenting events since 2017. It is dedicated to bringing people together to learn more about each other to create understanding and acceptance. Their website is at oneburlington.net
There is a desperate situation in Ukraine – they need our help now – be as generous as you can.
The following trotted along to the office of the City Clerk and put the passport on the table and handed over the filing fee.
Tony Brecknock, centre: video expert
Some interesting new names. Tony Brecknock hasn’t seen the inside of the Council Chamber in a decade. He was a major player in the school closing issue and he ran a candidate as a school board trustee.
Robert Radway
Robert Radway, a high school teacher (20 years in) teaches history. Wasn’t sure he would resign as a teacher – he wants to clear up that issue very quickly.
Councillor Paul Sharman: Thinking it over very carefully
The other are current members of Council. Sharman has his nomination papers ready for filing. He was soliciting people at the Chamber of Commerce event recently. Expect Paul to be very cautious – there is a brass ring for the taking if he is careful.
Needs to build a credible organization to pull this one off. He should be looking for a cracker jack campaign manager that he will listen to.
Stick around – this crowd is not going to wait for the election of a new Premier get in the way of raising funds and building a team.
A report that has some credibility was the ward that even if she is acclaimed – Mayor Meed Ward will still run a campaign. Has she not learned that Ann Marsden is planning on running. Expect her name to appear on the list soon.
Was it because May 1 is traditionally a day for the working people – a time when the men and woman who do the hard work that leaves muscles sore and backs aching.
May 1st turned out to be the first Sunday in May; a time when Canada celebrate and remember those lost in the Battle of the Atlantic
Canadians commemorated the 77th anniversary of the end of action in the Battle of the Atlantic and the sacrifices of the thousands of Canadians who fought valiantly from 1939-1945 during the longest campaign of the Second World War.
The Battle of the Atlantic was the longest Second World War campaign. Vice-Admiral Craig Baines, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, put it all too well when he described it as “cold, wet, dangerous. Fought with courage, dedication and honour. Our world today – who they were then, and who we are now is forever connected by their sacrifice.”
These were the ships that fought the Battle of the Atlantic, the longest naval battle in history. Shown here is HMCS Haida, currently tied up in Hamilton.
The Battle of the Atlantic began on September 3, 1939, with the sinking of the SS Athenia by German submarine U-30. Allied forces fought for control of the North Atlantic Ocean to supply the war effort from 1939 to 1945, making this the longest campaign of the Second World War
The RCN grew from a mere 6 destroyers and 3,500 personnel in 1939, to 373 fighting ships and more than 100,000 sailors by War’s end – one of the largest navies in the world.
Our sailors and airmen sank or shared in the destruction of some 50 U-boats while they escorted some 25 thousand merchant ships during the war to deliver more than 165 million tonnes of life & war-sustaining cargo to Europe in a merchant navy that became the world’s fourth largest.
Rick Wilson isn’t certain as to exactly where the battle for control of Lake Ontario took place but believes it was just offshore from the Naval monument.
These accomplishments were fueled by an impressive shipbuilding effort that saw more than 400 merchant ships built in Canadian shipyards that also churned-out 281 destroyers/corvettes & frigates, 206 minesweepers, over 250 tugs and over 3,000 landing craft.
In 1943, Rear-Admiral Leonard Murray was put in charge of the Allied Air and Naval forces in the Northwest Atlantic; the only Canadian to command an Allied theatre of conflict in either World War.
Throughout the Battle of the Atlantic, 24 Canadian of the 175 Allied warships were lost. 2,600 merchant ships including 62 Canadian vessels also met the same fate.
The human cost: more than 2,700 RCN/RCAF and 1,600 Canadian Merchant Navy personnel died.
Just weeks before the end of hostilities, HMCS Esquimalt was sunk and 44 died in the Halifax approaches, in April 1945.
Fought largely by reservists in small ships built in Canada and operating from Canadian bases, the defence of North Atlantic trade against the submarine menace defined a naval role for Canada within a much larger alliance. After 1945, the RCN became one of the best anti-submarine warfare navies in the world.
lmost 7,000 women served their country in a wide variety of crucial roles during the War.
Freeman Station, Burlington’s historical gem, was celebrated Saturday at a Grand Reopening following a lengthy restoration by volunteers with the help of an Ontario Trillium Foundation grant, resulting in a sparkling new edifice.
New panels were installed, as well as new flooring, painting was done, the ceiling restored and the original windows, including the distinctive Jane Irwin oval window at the end of the room, reconstructed.
Ed Keenleyside, president of the Friends of Freeman Station,
Ed Keenleyside, president of the Friends of Freeman Station, said the Grand Trunk Railway Station is 100 per cent operated by volunteers. He outlined a three-way, five-year legal agreement which has made the project possible.
“Solenis Chemicals (an adjacent plant) has been very good to allow us to use this land,” he said. “The building is owned by the City and all artifacts by the Friends of Freeman Station.”
The wooden station, named after Freeman village founder Joshua Freeman, was originally located on the CN rail line near the corner of Brant Street and Plains Road. In 2005, it was moved, in order to save it from demolition, when a third track was installed.
Lifted off the blocks it had perched on for a couple of years the station got hoisted by a crane and lowered into it new home that had a full basement.
It’s the only building in the city whose historical and architectural significance has been recognized by the Ontario Ministry of Culture and the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada.
This station was built in 1906 to replace a previous one destroyed by fire.
While it looked like a taxi – it was a full time inspection vehicle that could use railway tracks to inspect the condition of the rail bed,
Motorists driving by might have noticed a bright yellow old-time car in the front of the station. It’s a Toronto, Hamilton and Buffalo rail inspection car. Currently, it’s in a shed but will be brought out again as soon as necessary adjustments are made.
Roger Ryan, whose wife is the niece of Stan Roskovich, the last person to work as station agent before it closed in 1988, showed up with a bag of memorabilia.
VIA Rail and GO Transit trains still were using the station up until then.
R. Paul Johnson, 88, plays the role of station agent. Photo by DENIS GIBBONS
Eighty-eight-year-old R. Paul Johnson, whose grandfather Alfred Johnson once operated the swing bridge for the railway over the Burlington Canal, posed as station agent for the day.
There are 12 tour stops at the Freeman Station. Among them are the station master’s office, baggage room, waiting room, a giant caboose and boxcar and a memorial to Burlington’s fallen military heroes who left from the station to defend their country in war. Some never returned and are buried in European cemeteries.
The waiting room will be available as meeting space for use by small groups.
Sitting on some “cribbing” with a sign badly in need of several coats of paint, the Freeman Station gets ready for its big move.
Before the location beside Burlington Fire Department headquarters on Fairview Street, between Brant and Maple Avenue, was settled on, Burlingtonians listed Beachway Park directly across from the Joseph Brant Museum as their first choice.
It has a significant historical context because the Hamilton Radial Railway and Hamilton & Northern Railway used to run right past it parallel to Burlington Beach.
Passengers from Toronto used to disembark at a nearby station for dinner and dancing at the old Brant Inn.
The Freeman station got moved around a number of times while the city figured out what it wanted to do with the thing. When city council failed to come up with a solution citizens did.
Central Park and Maple Park also were considered and Aldershot resident Bill Fasullo recommended Hidden Valley Park where it could be rented by the local model railroad club and second to move it close to the Aldershot GO train station, which is on the same rail line it used to service.
The Burlington Sports Hall of Fame had earlier indicated an interest in using the building. The City of Toronto also had asked about using the old station as a gift shop at its Toronto Rail Heritage Centre.
Future open house dates include May 21, June 11, July 1 (Canada Day), August 8, September 10 and October 1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
By Pepper Parr
By Pepper Parr
The hospitality sector took a terrible beating – some just disappeared others will struggle for years to recover what they lost during the 20 months of very very dire times.
Sometimes things don’t work out the way you want them to.
By Staff
Invite your favourite person to join you in the comfortable cabaret setting at The Loft at Drury Lane on New Street. Enjoy a beverage from our licensed bar while watching the show and celebrate your own “perfect” relationships! Tickets are on sale at 
Repair Café
By Pepper Parr
By Staff
