 By Pepper Parr
December 3, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
City’s do not get opportunities to show their true colours that often. For Burlington the place to display their colours seems to be the Mainway Recreation Centre.
In 2011 a public meeting was held over the plans the province had to push a highway right through the Escarpment from about Kilbride onto Hwy 407.
There was a very boisterous meeting at which the public let it be known that this is not what they wanted – the NGTA – Niagara to Greater Toronto Area Road is currently on hold.
Tuesday evening the people of Burlington were given another opportunity to show who they really are when close to 400 people took part in a public meeting to learn about what they could do to aid the refugees the federal government is bringing to Canada.
 Not a single negative comment from the 400+ people who were at a public meeting to learn how they could help Syrian refugees, Mayor opened the meeting and quickly turned it over to the newly elected Member of Parliament, Karina Gould who pointed out that her grandparents were refugees.
 MPP Eleanor McMahon and MP Karina Gould being interviewed for Cogeco television. Gould then explained what the federal government was doing and how the public could be involved. She explained that there are five components to the federal level involvement after which the province gets involved. The Regional government plays a role at the affordable housing and social services level.
The municipality works with residents who want to be personally involved in getting the refugees settled into the community once they arrive.
The 400 hands at Mainway Recreation could not get their hands high enough into the air when asked to signify they wanted to help.
Steve House serves as the facilitator – his job was quite easy – it amounted to running around with a microphone – there was no need to control an unruly crowd – the room full of Burlingtonians were there to help.
Gould gave some background: 200,000 people have died in attempting to flee Syria and other parts of the war torn Middle East; there are 11 million displaced people and four million flooding into Europe. This is the largest refugee problem since the Second World War, said Gould.
She made a very interesting point when she told the audience that the Commissioner of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees said recently that if anyone could bring in tens of thousands of refugees – Canada could. We brought in refugees from Hungary when that country was going through a revolution; we brought in refugees when thousands of refugees were fleeing Vietnam and we brought in hundreds of refugees from Kosovo.
Canada is the only country that allows private sponsorship of refugees. Burlington has several groups that are sponsoring families. One well known couple (they asked not to be named) are part of a group of 18 sponsoring a family. Another consistent Gazette reader who has a home that she was preparing to put on the market – it has three bedrooms and is centrally located – wanted to know how she would go about working with other people to get a refuges into the home. She was not looking for any kind of a financial return – she just wanted to make the house available to someone who was coming to Canada as a refugee.
“The view these people have of Canada, indeed the view the world has of Canada” said this benefactor, “is being determined now by the way we behave. This is my kind of Canada” she added.
The five phase federal government work begins with identifying people in refugee camps who are interested in coming to Canada
These people then have to go through interviews and medical checkups – when that is done they are given the papers they need to come to Canada as Permanent Residents. One of the problems Canadians workers in the refugee camps have is getting exist Visas for the refugees to be able to leave the country.
Then comes the task of transporting the refugees and setting them into some form of accommodation where, as one of the public meeting participants put it “they will sleep on a bed, with clean sheets and rest their head on a pillow – something many of them may not have done for years.”
 There was a significant number of people from the Middle East who are now living in Canada taking down information and explaining what the refugees were dealing with. Then Canadians welcome the refugees – many of the members of the Syrian community are looking for ways to be at the airport to greet these people – they will be coming into the country at the rate of 400 every day starting next week until the end of the year – this is a mammoth logistics challenge.
Some of these refugees will meet with their sponsors and move to the housing that has been arranged. The others will be part of the federal government compliment – they will be sent to different communities across the country.
Settling these people into the community is not a simple task: there will be language issues, getting the children into schools, acquainting them with the neighbourhoods they are going to be living in, helping them with getting bank accounts opened and taking them to super markets. It is going to be very confusing to all of the refugees.
Steve House, the facilitator explained that the public meeting was just the first part of the conversation with the people that Canada has opened its doors to.
A central information clearing site is being set up – it looks as if it is going to come out of the Mayor’s office – Tuesday evening there was a lot that wasn’t clear – everyone was going to have a web site and everyone promised to help.
The Muslim, Moms were in the room – they were going to help. The Halton Mosque on Fairview will be helping.
Once housing is found for those who are part of the federal government part of the program – that is those who do not have private sponsors – they will need clothing. The weather has been very unseasonable – a bit of a break for everyone.
MPP Eleanor McMahon will serve as the point person for problems that have to be resolved at the provincial level.
No one is quite sure just how many refugees will arrive in Burlington. There are a reported five sponsoring groups in the city – with many others wanting to partner with others to become sponsors.
 Mayor Rick Goldring talking to a member of the North Burlington Baptist Church. Mayor Goldring thought that Burlington could take in something in the order of 300 families – but at this stage all anyone has to go on is the interest and the willingness of the people of Burlington to help.
MPP Eleanor McMahon explained the role the provincial government was playing – getting OHIP cards for these people promptly was major. Social welfare is handled by the Region. The school boards are preparing for newcomers – how many – they have no idea at this point.
The logistics involved in this task are huge – it looks as if Canada is going to receive 450 refugees every day starting Thursday until the end of the year.
 Exchanging information and contact points – Gillian Kearns of the Wesley Urban Ministries is on the right – a Hamilton based group that has the best on the ground information. Burlington’s role in all this became clear last night as the public heard from woman who lives out of her wheel chair, lives by herself and has a second bedroom she was willing to make available. “I live by myself and having a person living with me will do more for me than I do for them. “I can take care of their children if they have any and baby sit for them” she added.
The room broke into instant applause – and that was the way the evening went. There wasn’t a single negative remark made during the two and a half hour meeting.
 The police presence was much bigger than that seen at other public events – did they have public safety concerns? There was some concern – there were about half a dozen police officers at the back of the room; including one of the Deputy Chiefs and the Burlington Superintendent and a female Staff Sargeant. It is rare to see that level of police presence at any event in Burlington. They obviously had their concerns.
Whatever the concerns were – they didn’t surface. This was a room full of people who wanted to learn how they could give – and give – and give.
There were staff in the room from the Region explaining what the affordable housing policy is – the 1.6 % vacancy rate with waiting lists in the thousands is going to create some social strain.
 Members of the North Burlington Baptist church explaining what they are doing and welcoming anyone who wants to partner with them. There were people from Port Nelson United Church; there were people from Burlington Baptist Church who were partnering with McNeil Baptist in Hamilton. The North Burlington Baptist Church was interested in anyone who wanted to talk to them
Food Banks let people know they were on board, the Compassion society was heard.
The evening closed with a close to middle aged man, Ahmed, who said he was a refugee from Iran and that he came to Canada when he was ten after experiencing eight years of war.
He is an engineer, gainfully employed and involved in the community. “I am the investment you are making in these people coming from Syria”
It was an excellent positive note on which to close a very successful community meeting.
 By Pepper Parr
December 2, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
This is big news – for someone with Karina Gould’s background, age and political experience to be be appointed Parliamentary Secretary to Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development by Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau is significant.
 Karina Gould: Anyone who is a cat person has the “gravitas” to be a fine politician. A number of other people were made Parliamentary Secretary’s: Adam Vaughan, an MP in the former government and a city Councillor in Toronto with years of experience and former Metro Toronto Police Chief Bill Blair were appointed. Those two had experience and major connections that were easy to recognize.
Gould has a great resume and some very significant experience in trade relations. Her work with the Organization of American States in Washington, D.C. has served her well.
This appointment matters – those who knew her and worked with her knew Gould had the “right stuff”: clearly other people figured that out as well.
To get a sense as to just how hard this young woman works – listen up. Last Tuesday Gould flew in from Ottawa, took part in the public meeting on Syrian refugees and then returned to Ottawa that night.
Maybe her husband drove her to the airport – giving the two of them some quality time.
 By Pepper Parr
December 2, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
“My name is Eleeza”: she said during the public meeting on Syrian refugees held at the Mainway Recreation centre Tuesday evening. “And I am going to be taking these toys to children that we meet at the airport when they arrive from Syria.”
 Eleeza collecting funds for the toys she wanted to give refugee children arriving in Canada next week from Syria. Eleeza added that the toys cost about $5 each and she would appreciate any support she could get. A couple of minutes later someone slipped her $5 – and as the meeting progressed people would pass some money to her.
As the meeting was ending there was almost a lineup of people who were passing along five, ten and twenty dollar bills to a very surprised Eleeza and her amazed Mother.
 There were very close to 400 people at the public meeting called by the Mayor to talk about the Syrian refugees expected to arrive in Canada next week. The meeting attracted very close to 400 people. The Gazette will report on the meeting in detail in a separate article.
 By Staff
December 2, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
Karen FRANKLIN, 45 yrs of Hamilton was arrested at her Hamilton residence and charged with five counts of break, enter and theft and two counts of possession of credit cards obtained by crime. She was released on a Promise to Appear in Milton Court on December 30th 2015..
 Karen Franklin – arrested The Gazette first reported on the thefts that took place at a Burlington retirement home while the residents were out of their rooms having a meal.
The police were able to provide a photograph which the Gazette published. The police report that “assistance from members of the public led to the identification and arrest of Franklin.
Police are appreciative of all public assistance and encourage further reporting of any crimes or identifying those involved in criminal activity by contacting police or utilizing crime stoppers at 1 800 222-TIPS (8477), through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.com or by texting “Tip201” with your message to 274637 (crimes).
The Regional police have set up a “Caught-on-Tape“ page on their web site.
They also Twitter @HRPSBurl
 By Pepper Parr
December 2, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
Part of the budget process Burlington uses is the presenting of business cases for new spending.
The Burlington Performing Arts Centre, which is working at branding itself as The Centre, has two cases that is will take to Council.
 Former site of the Burlington police station The Centre is working it way towards a business model that keeps the taxpayer subsidy as low as possible The Centre is one of six boards and agencies that are not run out of city hall but receive significant funding from the city. Included in that list are the library, the Art Gallery of Burlington, the Museums of Burlington, Tourism Burlington and the Economic Development Corporation.
The total cost to the city for what are called Local Board and other agencies was $13,471,026 in 2015
To fully appreciate the cost of a service one has to look at the capital costs, any business cases put forward and the profit and loss situation for a board or agency.
The Centre has a strong revenue stream that consists of tickets sales, space rentals and sponsorships.
The Centre has been operational for four years – it had its problems during the first few years and found that it needed a change at the Executive Director level.
Once that change was made the flow of red ink was lessened and more seats were filled on a regular basis. Significantly more community based events were added to the program.
In 2013 city Council approved funding of $131,700 for two year contract positions as well as $225,250 for a “revenue shortfall”
City council did this under the assumption that after two additional seasons the city would have a clearer understanding of the true costs of operating the centre. Quite why this financial analysis was not done when The Centre was proposed as a benefit to the city is far from clear.
It was former Mayor Rob MacIsaac who put all the moving parts together and got the dream the city had had for many years to build a performing arts centre. The community certainly got behind when it came to raising funds to build. The centre came in on time and on budget.
 Suzanne Haines recently appointed Executive Director of the Burlington Performing Arts Centre. What many, probably most of the city councillors, didn’t understand was that performing arts centres need consistent ongoing financial support. There was one city Councillor who actually thought The Centre would contribute to the city’s tax coffers. The Centre did manage to spread the one time “revenue shortfall” funding over a three seasons.
They report that past funding for the two positions is now exhausted
The two positions The Centre wants to fill are business cases that have been put forward and if approved they will bring the 2016 base budget contribution from the city to $763,861 plus an on-going program change of $188,300 for a total 2016 contribution of $952,161 – which is pretty close to $1 million each year.
City council gulped when the cost rose to $1.2 million a number of years ago. The community was led to believe that the city contribution was going to be in the $500,000 range and seemed to be comfortable with that.
The business cases are for a Venue Technician and Community Engagement. Lighting and sound equipment is complex and the technology keeps changing. In 2016 The Centre wants to add LED theatrical lighting fixtures and portable audio equipment. Canada 150 funding ( a federal government initiative that put funds into municipalities across the country) has been identified for this project.
One of the early complaints people had with The Centre was that there wasn’t enough time for community groups and that the cost for many was prohibitive.
Former Executive Director Brian McCurdy did a fabulous job of bringing in small groups and expanding the educational program. It is not unusual to see four or five school buses parked outside The Centre.
Those students are the theatre goers of the future – these programs are a large part of what performing arts centres are built to achieve.
The Centre created an annual membership program that had modest goals in its first year – the plan is to ramp this up.
Everyone is looking for sponsorship – the wonder is that there is any water left in that well.
The budget for 2016 is set at $3,470,871.
Based on the numbers available at this point – it is not clear if this budget has been approved by the Theatre board – the city is being asked to provide 27% of the cost of running The Centre.
Salaries wages and benefits make up 48% of the budget.
 Calendar of performances at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre during August of 2015 Last years The Centre was close to closed during the month of August – there wasn’t much being offered.
The activity for December isn’t much better.
 Calendar of event at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre during December of 2015 The Centre recently produced an Economic Impact report done by Natural Capital Resources that reported The Centre had $7.8 million to the local economy – that figure included the salaries and wages paid out.
“This impact” said the report “has grown steadily since 2011 as the number of events and associated attendance at The Centre has grown. The study further shows that The Centre has retained cultural expenditures and related economic impact, as Burlington residents stay here to consume their cultural product more often. This repatriation of the cultural spending in Burlington translates to roughly $1.3 million of economic activity annually.
“Patron expenditures flow through the local economy in the form of sales in local businesses, restaurants and stores and impact both prosperity of business and create jobs”, said Executive Director Suzanne Haines. “The Centre’s operations and the expenditures of its patrons are estimated to account for roughly one hundred full-time equivalents each year, sixty-six percent of these jobs are in the community”.
 Pie chart indicates where the economic impact was felt. “Over fifteen thousand patrons were surveyed and approximately two thousand responses were completed, representing an outstanding thirteen percent return rate, which makes the study statistically significant. The survey found that fifty percent of The Centre’s patrons indicated they combine food as part of their performing arts experience and twenty-three percent of patrons shop as part of their performing arts experience.
This is probably not a statement the local restaurants would agree with.
 The amount of money spent has climbed – has it climbed enough – what is the ideal economic benefit supposed to be? “Ninety percent of The Centre’s patrons rate overall performance quality as ‘excellent’ or ‘very good’ and seventy-five percent indicated performances to be ‘excellent’ or ‘very good’ value for the ticket price.”
During Culture week in September The Centre put on several Friday night Jazz events that were held out on the plaza – they were hugely successful – and they were free. The public got great value. The event is expected to be repeated in 2016.
The Centre is will announce its fifth season next May. It is at that time the public will have some sense as to what newly appointed Executive Director Susan Haines brings to the table.
By Staff
December 4, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
The Ho Ho Ho man is coming.
Santa will be on his sleigh as part of the annual Santa Claus Parade Burlington has welcomed for 50 years.
The parade assembles at Prospect and Guelph Line proceeds south on Guelph to New Street where it proceeds west along New Street to where it turns into James Street, and continues along James Street to Brant Street.
north on Brant Street and finishes at Brant and Caroline Street.
 There is an added feature this year – Mrs. Claus will have a sleigh of her own and will be in the parade right behind Santa Clause and his eight reindeer.
 Mayor Rick Goldring – collecting for some organization during a previous Christmas parade. The floats representing perhaps as many as 100 groups and organizations from across the city.
Mayor Rick Goldring has in the past chosen not to ride a car in the parade – on year he walked along the street with a hockey stick that had a sock on the end of it to collect whatever people wanted to donate. Memory, flawed at times, recalls that the collection was for the Old Timers Hockey Club – but we might have that wrong.
Mayor Golding didn’t appear to have much in the way of smiles or Ho Ho Ho in the promotional video that was put out.
 When the Burlington Teen Tour Band takes to the street – they take up the whole street. While the band members do the marching – there are hundreds of proud parents lining the streets – many of whom met each other as teenagers in that band. The parade begins at 2:00 pm and ends at 4:30 pm
Block off traffic in streets and you are blocking transit.
The following streets will have access limitations:
Prospect Street
from Cumberland Avenue to Guelph Line. Local access only.
1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Guelph Line
from Prospect Street to New Street
New Street
from Guelph Line to Martha Street
James Street
from Martha Street to Brant Street
Brant Street
from Baldwin Street/Victoria Avenue to Elgin Street
Burlington Transit bus routes will have detours on routes 3, 4, 10, 21 and 25.
Stops within the road closure areas will be marked out of service and will have details for the nearest available stop.
Due to the number of road closures impacting transit service that day and the crowds of people attending the parade, please ensure you allow extra travel time to reach your destination.
The Routes 3, 4, 10, 21, 25 buses will be detouring around the parade and marshalling routes.
There will be no service on Guelph Line between Fairview Street and Lakeshore Road from 1 to 5 p.m.
• This affects the Route 3 which will travel around the road closure area along Fairview Street, Cumberland Avenue, New Street and Rossmore Boulevard. Please move to stops on these roadways.
There will be no service on New Street, between Brant Street and Rossmore Boulevard. from 1 to 5 p.m.
• This affects Routes 4 and 10 which will travel around the road closure area along Fairview Street and Lakeshore Road. Please move to stops on these roadways.
There will be no service on Prospect Street from 11 to 5 p.m.
• This affects Route 4, 21 and 25 which will travel around the road closure along Fairview Street. Please move to stops on these roadways.
There will be no service on Drury Lane or Teen Tour Way from 11 to 5 p.m.
• This affects Route 4 which will travel along Fairview Street instead. Please move to stops on these roadways.
 It is a Holiday Season and a festive season – lets not forget why and what we celebrate Christmas Day.
 By Staff
December 1, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
It starts today – free parking in the Downtown Core. A freebie from the city – designed to entice shoppers to give the downtown merchants a closer look.
 City operated parking lots in the downtown core. Many feel that the malls offer a better parking deal – that’s not what we are hearing. We had a reader who wrote of driving around for 40 minutes to find a parking spot in one of the malls.
It was Ward 2 Councillor Marianne Meed Ward who championed the free parking initiative. She said “it was something I heard from businesses when I ran in 2010; working with the BDBA (Burlington Downtown Business Association) and the Downtown Parking Committee we delivered on this last term.” Meed Ward sat on both the BDBA and the Parking Committee at the time.
The BDBA loves the program. They produced s winner of a video – CLICK to see the 36 second flick
Doug Brown doesn’t take quite the same view
“Going into it’s third year, the City’s ‘Free P in December’ kicks off once again tomorrow. Acting Director of Transportation Vito Tolone says “During the busy holiday season, we hope the promotion will encourage residents and visitors to come downtown and explore, shop and celebrate the holiday season with family and friends.” That is, unless you don’t have a car.
 Doug Brown probably has the most encyclopedic knowledge of what Burlington has done with public transit in the past – he just doesn’t agree with what the city is doing to transit these days. BFAST, said Brown, “has asked previously for data on what ‘Free P in December’ costs the taxpayers of the city in lost parking revenue. The responses have claimed that because parking revenue and expenses are dealt with under a separate silo known as the ‘parking reserve fund’ the cost to taxpayers is $0. We feel this is disingenuous however.
“How many people who might otherwise take transit, walk or bike downtown during the day end up driving their car instead because of the promise of free parking? There is no way to measure most of these, except perhaps the transit fare box, but other factors can influence this as well such as holidays or poor weather. But it is unlikely that there is no impact. Free parking incents people to drive their car, even if they are a short distance away.
 This is not what this mall parking lot looks like on the busy weekends. “We’d also like to see the city publish data on how ‘Free P’ affects the availability of parking in the downtown. Anecdotally we’ve heard that it is much harder to find a parking spot downtown during the month of December. Studies have found that in times of traffic congestion, as much as 30 percent of cars on the road were trying to find a parking spot. This increases local air pollution, and emissions of greenhouse gas emissions even more than would already be the case thanks to the increased number of car journeys taking place.
Brown calls on city transportation and transit staff to work together to develop a strategy to provide free transit trips to and from the downtown from all parts of the city. “This will allow all residents of our city to enjoy our vibrant downtown, not just those who drive”, said Brown.
By Staff
November 30th, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
A 60-year-old victim from the Region met the man police recently arrested through an on-line dating site in August 2015 and had a brief relationship where the victim allowed the accused to stay at her residence for approximately one month.
 One heart was red, warm and giving – the other as black and just took. The victim began to notice jewelry and art missing from her home and upon confronting him and ended the relationship, the accused quickly disappeared.
Halton Regional Police located and arrested the accused on Saturday November 29, 2015 at a motel in the Town of Georgetown.
Enrico CAGNOTTI, 58 years of no fixed address has been charged with:
Theft Over $5000
Fail to Comply with probation order x 2
The accused was wanted by Toronto Police, South Simcoe OPP and Peel Regional Police for charges of breach of probation, fraud, utter threats and forcible confinement.
The accused has been known to use alias names such as:
Enrico Depaolis,
Juiseina Cagnotti
Guesppa Depaolis
Rick Cagnotti
Eric Paolis
Rick Gambino
Franco Cesaretti
Enrico Paulozza
Enrico Pirolo
Rick Zeller
Halton Regional Police would like to take this opportunity to remind the public to protect yourself when using on-line dating sites. These sites can help deliver a rewarding relationship but can also unknowingly introduce you to a scam artist or fraudster. Protect yourself, your identity and your property.
Anyone with any information on this crime is asked to contact Detective Maureen Martin of the Oakville Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905 825-4747 ext 2219 or anyone with information on this or any other crime who would like to remain anonymous is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1 800 222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.com or by texting “Tip201” with your message to 274637 (crimes).
By Staff
November 30th, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
The hallways and the washrooms in Halton’s public schools are going to be a lot cleaner than they were earlier this month – and the cleaning will not get done by the vice principals.
 Schools will be cleaner – maintenance workers just have to ratify the offer made – and shiny hallways and clean washrooms will become the norm. The Halton District School Board has announce a tentative local agreement has been reached with Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) – Halton Local 1011, representing more than 300 Halton custodial and maintenance staff.
The tentative deal must be ratified by CUPE Halton Local 1011 members and the Halton District School Board. Terms of the tentative agreement remain confidential until the ratification process is completed.
By Pepper Parr
November 30th, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
These stories are tragic.
The moment names are put into the public domain there are hundreds of people who lose.
Sexual assault is so damaging to the victim, to the school at which it took place, to the families of the person charged with the crime – the damage and the personal pain is never ending – lives are destroyed.
The Halton Regional Police Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Bureau have concluded an investigation involving allegations made against a teacher in Burlington.
On Friday November 27, 2015, a Burlington man was arrested after receiving complaints of physical abuse and inappropriate sexual touching by several students.
Dennis CONNOLLY, 58, of Burlington, has been charged with:
Assault
Sexual Assault x 3
Sexual Interference x 3
During the time of these incidents, the accused was employed with the Halton District School Board as a music teacher at Alexander’s Public School in the City of Burlington, he is not currently working at the school.
Investigators suspect there could be additional victims and are encouraging them to contact Detective Constable PRESCOD of the Halton Regional Police Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit at 905-825-4747 ext. 8977 or anyone with information on this or any other crime is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1 800 222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.com or by texting “Tip201” with your message to 274637 (crimes).
By Pepper Parr
November 27th, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
 Despite a drizzle that came and went – Civic Square was full. There are two events in Burlington that often get a whack from the weather: Clean Up – Green up in the Spring when thousands in the city turn out to get trash off the ground and into waste barrels and in the weeks before Christmas the Downtown Carol Stroll takes place.
It is often just a little on the brisk side in the Spring and in the fall we get rain or close to howling snow.
 There were hundreds of young people out for the event. The Stroll this year was to take place on an evening when it had rained – consistent drizzle actually, most of the day. The plans were great – the weather wasn’t but people showed up nevertheless and by the time it was to begin Civic Square was pretty full.
 The Downtown Christmas Carol Stroll was a family event. There were families from well north of the QEW who made the trip downtown – the city seems to have this divide at the highway but it didn’t factor into the event Friday night.
The lineup for the burgers supplied by The Works took more than twenty minutes to get through. It was worth the wait – turkey burgers with a cranberry topping.
For reasons that are probably outdated all the senior elected people were trotted out to say a few words. We didn’t see any of the Council members milling among the crowd. What do the dignitaries add to the event – other than getting their pictures taken?
 The Mayor flipped the switch – nothing. The picture is slightly out of focus – the photographer was watching the faces of the crowd and didn’t quite get the look of astonishment on the face of the Mayor. The dignitaries took to the stage and made short short speeches and readied themselves to turn the lights on the Christmas tree that is known as the Tree of Hope. The countdown began and on “1” the Mayor pushed the huge switch – and nothing happened.
Everyone laughed and while the technicians tried to figure out where the problem was – the lights never did go on and people moved on ready to either go home or try doing at least part of the Stroll.
 Chris Hall, manager with Burlington Hydro didn’t have an answer as to why the lights would not go on when the Mayor threw the switch. She did say that the hydro bill had been paid. The lineup of events was impressive – the weather just didn’t cooperate. A number of the restaurants used social media to remind people of what they were offering.
The event is put on by Burlington Hydro Electricity Services with a helping hand from the Burlington Downtown Business Association.
Hydro funds the Festival of Lights that was superb this year. The Lights are well work a trip down to Spencer Smith Park.
By Pepper Parr
November 26, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
Some time ago the city deiced to spend a chunk of money on public art and asked the citizens to tell them where they thought the art should be placed.
Using an interactive program people were given access to a map on which they could say where they thought public art should be placed. There was to be one for each ward.
The city’s public art adviser ran a juried competition and the following six people were selected:
• Judy Mayer-Grieve: King Road Underpass, Ward 1
• Claire Hall: Freeman Station, Ward 2
• Teresa Seaton: Amherst Park, Ward 3
• Hannah Sell and Liam Racine: Port Nelson Park, Ward 4
• Tamara Kwapich: Orchard Community Park, Ward 5
• Donna Grandin: Ireland Park, Ward 6
After that there wasn’t much heard – some people knew about the work being done but there was nothing coming our of city hall.
 The Seaton work that will be installed in ward 3 consists of three stained glass pieces coated with a protective surface that will preserve the glass The Gazette did get to see the work Teresa Seaton was doing only because we had dropped by her studio. There was little to see for the other artists. It was almost as if everyone wanted to keep the project a secret – perhaps city hall felt the public would swallow hard when the amount spent on the project was made public.
Artists are entitled to earn a living – and if Cobalt Connects, the Jeremy Freibrger operation that advises the city on a number o cultural matters put a price on something there is probably value in it for the city.
The art for ward two is in place at the |Freeman Station – views are varied on this piece, it seemed d a little on the “sophomoric” side.
 The official announcement of the six pieces of public art be placed in each of the city wards will take place at the Freeman station net week – December 1st. Next week, Tuesday, December 1, there will be an official unveiling of the art that is now in place on the side of the Freeman station which will be where the other five pieces of art will be shown in photographic form.
The local artist mural initiative is a new public art program designed to tell local stories using local artists. This year’s program commissioned six small to medium-scale murals throughout the city. These commissions were open exclusively to Burlington, Ont., artists. Free professional development opportunities were offered to assist artists with the application process and project development.
A community jury of residents and artists representing each ward reviewed the proposals and made the selections.
Freeman Station is located at 1255 Fairview St., next door to the Fire Station headquarters – that building is in the final stages of a significant rebuild.
Light refreshments will be provided.
By Pepper Parr
November 27, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
City hall has a practice of celebrating the departure of its senior staff. These are sometimes done at a Council meeting – on other occasions at an event where people can gather, swap tales and remember the contribution the departing staff member made.
Thursday evening 125 or so people dropped into the Waterfront Hotel to bid farewell and good fortune to Scott Stewart who leaves Burlington for Guelph where he will serve as Deputy Chief Administrative Officer.
 Scot Stewart was probably born a Toronto Maple Leaf fan – cold comfort but the sweater keeps him warm. Mayor Goldring who opened the comments part of the evening, put his gift bag with a bold Toronto Maple Leaf crest on it and spoke well of the work Scott had done on getting the city and the hospital administration into the same bed. He remarked as well on excellent work done on getting the pier built right during the second try and suggested that if Scott wanted to take the air park with him to Guelph – he didn’t think Burlington would object to having Guelph annex that part of the city.
There were remarks from the head of the Transportation department who generously gave Scott a STOP sign – “just in case things don’t work out in Guelph” commented Vito Tolone. The idea of seeing Scott Stewart as a crossing guard amused many.
 Cary Clark on the left watches as Scott Stewart accept a painting done by Rob Peachey. Chris Glenn looks on. The comments from people who worked closely with Stewart were at times funny and at times an insight into the man. Rob Peachey, who oversees park development and is the guy who has to get those two Windows on the Lake between Market and St. Paul opened up, turns out to be a talented artist who did a painting of Kerns Cliff Park that was presented to Stewart. It was at that moment we learned that Scott chose that location to propose to his wife Darlene. A romantic devil isn’t he.
 When you got “the look” you knew you were probably in a bit of trouble. The comment was usually – “fix it”. Scott Stewart’s carer moves on. He was an exceptionally valuable member of the tem that keeps this city operational – at times it looked like he was doing it single handily. His shoes are going to be exceptionally hard to fill – his character and his humour are irreplaceable. His comments: “fix it” and “good luck with that one” are words that will be remembered for some time.
There was an occasion when the “soccer” moms were complaining about the covered field time they felt they were not getting. A group of them, strollers in front of them, delegated at city hall. It was a boisterous meeting and for a period of time it looked like it was going nowhere. The “soccer Moms” were not going to be blown off.
 It was tough year for Scott Stewart – his trials in Burlington are over. Next year will be better. Stewart got the meeting to the point where it looked like a compromise had been found and he gave the task to Park and Recreation Director Chris Glenn with the comment – “Work it out with Chris – and if you can’t work it out with him – you will have to work it out” with me – and you do not want to have to work it out with me.
The soccer moms got it worked out with Chris Glenn.
His style is one that any budding municipal bureaucrat would be well advised to copy.
Quite why this city Council did not choose Scott Stewart as City Manager is something many will wonder about for some time. That’s all water under the bridge.
By Staff
November 27, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
Parking in downtown Burlington will be free for the month of December in city lots and at parking meters.
“Now in its third year, Free P in December is one of the city’s most well-received programs,” said Vito Tolone, the city’s acting director of transportation.
 You will be able to park here free for all of December – and in all the other municipal parking lots as well. “During the busy holiday season, we hope the promotion will encourage residents and visitors to come downtown and explore, shop and celebrate the holiday season with family and friends.”
During Free P in December, vehicles parked at on-street meters can park free for up to three hours. For vehicles parked at municipal parking lots or at the parking garage at 414 Locust St., there is no maximum time limit. Overnight parking in municipal lots is also allowed.
There are more than 1,400 municipal public parking spaces in downtown Burlington. Parking is free year-round in downtown Burlington Monday to Friday after 6 p.m. and all day Saturday, Sunday, and holidays.
 By Ray Rivers
November 27, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
It’s politics imitating life.
Imagine somebody resolving, on a boozy New Year’s eve, to lose 10 kgs by the next summer. Would anyone complain if they only lost 9 kgs and it took them until September?
Goals give us direction and a point of reference. Moving in the right direction and in some kind of time frame is what matters.
 Justin Trudeau before he became Prime Minister. It’s more like curling than hockey, where you don’t need to be on the button to win, just closer than the other team, and the more rocks the better. So when the PM changed-down his plan from 25,000 refugees by the end of the year, to almost the end of the government’s fiscal year (March 2016), the important thing is that it is still happening.
And ‘doing it right’ is more important than just doing it. Selecting safe Syrian families from the camps and vetting them by our own guys takes time. Call it a broken election promise, but it’s one most Canadians don’t mind seeing broken – given the events in Paris. And, Canada will still be seen as a generous refugee recipient, surpassing most European states and even the USA.
You see there is a new sheriff in town. We elected a new way of doing things in this country last month, not just a new leader. A couple things stand out. For one our new government is more democratic. Decision-making is now shared among Trudeau’s team of cabinet ministers. This de-centralization can strengthen, more than threaten, his leadership. And after that big election win the PM can afford to be confident about his team implementing his vision without his paternal oversight.
 Justin Trudeau during the election campaign. Trudeau is also liberating his MPs from sticking to the party line on government bills, allowing more free votes to ensure they more directly represent the wishes of their constituents. He will also be reforming the Senate, something that has eluded his predecessors despite their best intentions. Removing partisanship from appointments will help transform that almost irrelevant body into more of the ‘chamber of sober second thought’ it was intended to be – rather than the rubber stamp it had become.
Then there are the other appointments. Mr. Harper’s cynical farewell gift to Canadians, just before the election, was to stack federal boards and commissions with Tory appointments, some going on beyond the four year term of the new government. The National Energy Board is a case in point – a body which would be able to block progress on a national climate change program. It is time these appointments were sunset with each change of government.
Second, there is a new collaborative approach to dealing with the federal government’s partners in the federation. Harper refused to engage this way, so the last time first ministers met was in 2009. It was refreshing to see Trudeau host an early meeting and obtain a very positive outcome on the potentially divisive issues of refugee settlement and climate change – a topic which prompted unsolicited emissions reduction plans by both Alberta and Ontario.
Third, the new government has shown it is prepared to compromise on goal achievement, if necessary, to deal with other priorities and other realities – as happened with the refugee issue. It would be easy to attribute the new tone of this government to the injection of fresh faces and youthful vigour, but I suspect it is due more to leadership at the top.
Will Farrell (not my favourite actor) wrote and performed an outstanding comedic stage production, which was recently re-played on HBO. Titled “You’re Welcome America” and set in 2009, it is recounts the GW Bush years. This production is both hilarious and thought provoking. It is also timely given that US Republicans are again looking to run an ignoramus as their presidential candidate, favouring the hyperbolic Trump and the seemingly ‘possessed’ Dr. Ben Carson over less charismatic characters in the GOP ‘braintrust’.
 The Prime Minister – the hair Canada has had its share of colourful PM’s leaving their mark with his/her unique leadership style. Mr. Harper was obsessed with control. He made decisions unilaterally and was not big on entertaining ideas that didn’t conform to his ideology. He would tolerate neither criticisms nor critics. And his confrontational approach exacerbated divisions between supporters and opponents, the right and the centre-left, the disadvantaged and the 10%.
Those who follow my column will attest that I was never a fan of the former PM – neither his policies nor his leadership style. Mr. Trudeau, given this fresh approach – open, engaging democratic, collaborative, realistic and positive – has raised expectations. And we all understand how difficult it can be to maintain that momentum.
 Ray Rivers writes weekly on both federal and provincial politics, applying his more than 25 years as a federal bureaucrat to his thinking. Rivers was a candidate for provincial office in Burlington where he ran as a Liberal against Cam Jackson in 1995, the year Mike Harris and the Common Sense Revolution swept the province.
Background links:
Climate Conference Tory Appointments Unmuzzling Scientists First Ministers’ Meeting
Ontario’s Climate Change Strategy Alberta’s Plan Refugees Attitudes on Climate Change
Trudeau Interview You’re Welcome America
By Staff
November 27, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
In November 2015, while staying at a motel in the Halton Region, an incident occurred and Jason Larry KEARNS, the accused, was in the process of being removed from the property which required the police to attend.
The accused fled prior to police arrival and a warrant has been issued for his arrest.
During the investigation officers located a modified shotgun, ammunition and a quantity of cocaine.
KEARNS is wanted by Halton Regional Police for:
Possession of Ammunition while Prohibited
Possession of a Firearm while Prohibited
Knowledge of Unauthorized Firearm
Possession of a Prohibited/Restricted Firearm
Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
Breach of Firearms Regulation
Possession for the Purpose – Cocaine
EXERCISE CAUTION WHEN DEALING WITH THE ACCUSED
KEARNS is described as 6’1”, 190 lbs with brown hair and brown eyes. He has a tattoo “MTV” on his left upper arm and a scar on his forehead.
KEARNS is known to frequent the areas of Milton, Burlington and the surrounding areas.
This is week 32 for the “Fugitive Friday” initiative whereby the Halton Regional Police Service, Burlington station, reaches out to the public to help locate wanted persons and hold them accountable for their actions.
There are numerous people who continue to evade the police and the court system and continue to live out in our communities while having a warrant for their arrest in place.
The Burlington Offender Management Unit shares information on a wanted person in hopes that the public can assist in locating the individual.
They share “Fugitive Friday” information on their website and via social media through Twitter @HRPSBurl and @HaltonPolice.
Anyone who may have witnessed this person or has information that would assist investigators in locating him are encouraged to contact D/C Bulbrook – Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau – Offender Management Team at 905-825-4747 Ext. 2346 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.com, or by texting “Tip201” with your message to 274637 (crimes).
 By Staff
November 26, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
It looks like it is going to be a perfect evening for the Annual Candle Light Stroll – the downtown merchants would certainly like to see you – don’t miss out though in dropping down to Spencer Smith Park and gawking at the Festival of Lights – the people who put this together have done a superb job.
The event is co-ordinated by Burlington Electricity Services Inc. who took over the heavy lifting from the merchants association. The dignitaries will be there – be brief please – Ben McVie from CHML will MC the occasion.
 Shore line from the pier. Bundle up the kids and bring your voices downtown to join in the fun as Burlington Downtown lights up for the Holidays at its annual carolling event and launches the Lakeside Festival of Lights Friday, November 27th. The festivities kick off at 6:00 in Civic Square where you will be able to enjoy
 Candle Light Stroll route starts at 7:00 pm Festive Burgers served hot from the grill by the Works Gourmet Burger Bistro
Hot Chocolate compliments of our Proud Sponsor Coffee Culture
Visits with Santa
Christmas Music and more…
6:45pm Welcome from Local Dignitaries
Official lighting of the CHML Tree of Hope
leave Civic Square as a group on the carolling procession following the Town Crier
 Guarding the city from those damn Yankees. The stroll starts at 7:00 pm with stops at:
Village Square
Lighting of the Village Square Tree
Hot Apple Cider & Popcorn
Victoria Carollers
Pearl & Pine Retirement
Carols by Bianca Bernardi
Complimentary Candy Canes provided by Pearl & Pine Retirement
Brant & Lakeshore
Hot Maple Taffy by White Meadows Farms
Music by Robert Batement High School Choir
Spencer Smith Park & the Festival of Lights
Chocolate Treat by Burlington Taxi
Burlington Teen Tour Band
There will be Post-Stroll Specials:
Curdz Poutinerie 398 John St.
Buy 1 Get 1 Free 9-10pm
Emma’s Back Porch 2084 Old Lakeshore Rd.
Funky Friday feature menu & live music
Kelly’s Bake Shoppe (after 6pm) 401 Brant St.
Cup of house-made cocoa or Balzacs Coffee and a chocolate chip cookie for $5
Molly Cake 361 Brant St.
Buy 1 Get 1 Free Chocolate Shot
My Thai 399 Elizabeth St.
Mention Post-Stroll Special for 10% off
Wendel Clark’s Classic Bar 380 Brant St.
Live music 9pm – close & house wine special for $21.99 per bottle.
 No Ho Ho Ho man – he arrives on in eight days.
By Pepper Parr
November 26, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
Arthur Rendall, a member of Burlington’s Accessibility Advisory Committee, was presented with the AODA 10th Anniversary Champion Award at the last meeting of City Council.
 Rendall was presented the award for his successful efforts in getting text-based 911 services for those who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech impairments. The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) award recognizes outstanding individuals who demonstrate leadership, passion and commitment in the promotion of accessibility and inclusiveness in their community.
“On behalf of Burlington City Council and for all residents, I am very pleased to present this award to Arthur,” said Mayor Rick Goldring. “As a direct result his tireless efforts, there is now 911 text service from mobile phones for people who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech impairments and that benefits us all.”
Rendall worked closely with the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission – Emergency Service Working Group, beginning in 2008, to come up with a system that allows those who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech impairments to text 911 from their mobile device.
“At the start of the discussions, it was thought that developing such a service would be too expensive, but Arthur, did not give up and provided the leadership and drive to make this project a success,” said Judi Lytle, the city’s accessibility co-ordinator.
In January 2013, the CRTC announced enhancements to 911 services that would allow Canadians who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech impairments to communicate with 911 call centres by text message. The service is now available across Canada and is being rolled out across the United States.
Rendall has been a member of the Burlington Accessibility Advisory Committee since January 2008. He is one of 101 Ontarians receiving this award which is given by the province. Looks like one of Burlington’s Best to me.
For more information about Text 911 in Canada, visit www.textwith911.ca. For more information about accessibility in Burlington, visit www.burlington.ca/accessibility or call 905-335-7600, ext. 7865.
 By Pepper Parr
November 26, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
With just two people on the stage and other than a table and a couple of chairs for props – it was a pretty sparse set – until Christina Serra as Lina and her husband Dan Watson as Ralph took their places.
 Ralph and Lina were acrobatic, spoke rapidly and let you in on the love story they lived. We were looking in on a love story about to take root between a quiet, almost mousy Italian girl, Lina, looking for a job sewing handkerchiefs; she gets the job from a slave driver of an employer. The son of the woman who owns the sewing company, Ralph, strolls into the workroom – and the love story begins.
Ralph who is about to become the “boyfriend” is a little dense; Lina, the girl is small, noisy in a nice way and has great movement as she scoots about the stage.
These two use body language for sound effects. The love story they tell is said to be true – and it is a delight to watch.
The scene where the bride “has” to get pregnant on her wedding day by a man she is not going to marry has to be seen to be understood and appreciated.
 Ralph expressing his feelings for Lina – the true love story of Lina’s parents. The “get me pregnant” scene is close to hilarious.
The scene that you will remember for a long time is that done by Watson as he plays the role of Ralph who has returned from the war seven years later to find there is a new suitor and a wedding about to take place.
Watson plays the role of the soldier who returns from the war and that of the new suitor who expects to marry Lina – at the same time.
The instant switch from one character to the other was very impressive – you almost want to roll it back and watch it again. With the deft movement of his body and using what looks like a dish towel as a prop Watson is superb.
Watching Lina wolf down the lunch sandwich Ralph offers to share early in the romance is a hoot – this diminutive little thing has the appetite of a horse. One wondered what her other appetites were like.
The only discordant note was all the babies in the closing scene that children and perhaps grandchildren seem to have brought to the front door of the house in Peterborough. Every time the door bell rang there was Lina with more babies in her arms.
Ralph and Lina – Worth seeing – takes place in the Community Theatre at The Centre (Burlington Performing Arts Centre) and runs through to the 29th with performances on the 26th, 27th, 28th and 29th – the Saturday schedule includes a 2:00 pm matinee; Sunday is a matinee only.
By Staff
November 26th, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
It is a little difficult to get a sense of a holiday season with the weather as warm as it is – but the volunteers who put the lights up on the waterfront have made a valiant effort.
Are these “Red Coats” defending the city from the Americans during the war of 1812? There was a naval battle fought on Lake Ontario that decided the fate of this country. Great time for parents to pass along some history to their children as they take in the Festival of Lights When evening has set in – take time to walk down to Spencer Smith Park and take in the lights that have been set up – it really is something to see, enjoy and appreciate.
 A stroll along the Naval promenade while the weather is unseasonable warm is a chance to take in the many lights that bring a smile to the face of almost everyone. The Ho Ho Ho man himself stands at the entry to Spencer Smith Park.  A collection of lights along the pathway to the pier and a red glow from the pier tower begin any tour of the Festival of Lights in Spencer Smith Park. The Burlington shoreline from the pier. The Festival of Lights has gone though some difficult days with their funding – but the work gets done and everyone can enjoy the work the new designs.
Best place to get a full sense is to be out on the pier and then to walk along the Naval promenade and see the individual pieces of work.
The tower on the pier changes colours – it was supposed to have a turbine at the top that would have generated the electricity for the pier – and perhaps all the seasonal fixtures – that didn’t happen – but we do have the pier – $14 million plus to put it in place.
Brant Street hasn’t seen much – if any – decoration. The Burlington Downtown Business association has a competition going on among its members – for some reason that association’s members just don’t seem to rise to the challenge of giving the street a festive feel. Right now their efforts seem to be on a sales drive tied into the Yellow Pages. Look for Yellow Bags – the retailer will tell you what the effort is all about.
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