 By Staff
March 22nd, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Human trafficking is despicable. There is no other word for it. That is takes places at all is a reflection of the people who deal in this kind of business as well as the people who pay the traffickers.
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) has made an arrest in a human trafficking investigation and believe there may be additional survivors.
Following a brief investigation, 29 year-old Gavin Reid of Brampton was arrested on March 20, 2021, in Barrie.
Reid has been charged with the following:
• Trafficking in Persons
• Procuring – Provide Sexual Services for Consideration
• Knowingly Advertise Sexual Services
• Withhold or Destroy Identity/Documents
• Receive Material Benefit resulting from Trafficking in Persons
• Receive Material Benefit resulting from Sexual Services
• Forcible Confinement
• Aggravated Assault
The accused also goes by the alias of “Blaze”. The survivor in this investigation was trafficked within Halton and surrounding jurisdictions.
The HRPS would like to thank the Barrie Police Service for their assistance and collaboration in this investigation.
“This investigation reminds us all of the prevalence of human trafficking in southern Ontario. This is an abhorrent crime that knows no jurisdictional boundaries. If you are a survivor of forced prostitution or forced labour or believe someone else might be, or if you know individuals involved in trafficking in persons, call the Halton Regional Police Service, Crime Stoppers or the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline,” says Inspector Dave Costantini of the HRPS Human Trafficking Unit.
Police believe there are additional victims in regards to this investigation and are asking anyone who has come into contact with Gavin Reid or has information to contact the Human Trafficking Unit at 905-825-4747 ext. 5331.
 Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. “See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.
The Halton Regional Police Service firmly believes that every person has the right to feel safe in our community.
Victims of violence and/or sexual assault and witnesses are encouraged to contact the Halton Regional Police Service. The following is a list of valuable support services and resources in our region for victims of violence and/or sexual assault:
• Halton Regional Police Service Victim Services Unit 905-825-4777 ext. 5239 or by email at VictimServices@haltonpolice.ca
• Nina’s Place Sexual Assault and Domestic Assault Care Centre 905-336-4116 or 905-681-4880
• Sexual Assault and Violence Intervention Services (SAVIS) 905-875-1555 (24-hour crisis line)
• Radius Child & Youth Services 905-825-3242 (Oakville) or 1-855-744-9001
• Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 (24-hour crisis line)
• THRIVE Counselling 905-845-3811 or 905-637-5256
 Signs / Indicators of Human Trafficking
• Not being allowed to speak for themselves;
• Not having control of their own money or cellphone;
• Suddenly having a new or second cell phone with a secret number;
• Being controlled by others and escorted at all times;
• Not being allowed to contact family or friends;
• Withdrawing from family and friends;
• Providing rehearsed answers to casual questions;
• Being secretive about their activities;
• Showing signs of abuse, such as bruising, cigarette burns, fractures, etc.
• Having a new boyfriend, girlfriend or friend who they won’t introduce to friends/family; and
• Having new items (clothing, jewelry etc.) outside their financial means.
What Should I Do if I Think Someone is a Victim of Trafficking?
If there is immediate danger or if you suspect someone is being trafficked, call 9-1-1.
You may also call the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010.
The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline is a confidential, multilingual service, operating 24/7 to connect victims and survivors with social services, law enforcement, and emergency services, as well as receive tips from the public. The hotline uses a victim-centered approach when connecting human trafficking victims and survivors with local emergency, transition, and/or long-term supports and services across the country, as well as connecting callers to law enforcement where appropriate.
 By Staff
March 22, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington Transit has extended their Customer Service hours.
Do you need to pick up your SPLIT pass or want to access PRESTO services?
The hours at the Burlington Transit Downtown Terminal will, at the end of March be extended to give you more options. This month, in addition to our regular hours, the Downtown Terminal will also be open:
 Location will have extended hours for two days near the end of the month. • Thursday, March 25, 2021 – 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and
• Saturday, March 27, 2021 – 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
To keep our customers and employees safe during COVID-19, only one customer is allowed in the Terminal at a time and you must wear a mask.
For more information, contact Customer Service at contactbt@burlington.ca or 905-639-0550
 By DIANE KALEN-SUKRA
March 21st, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
A concurrent path towards systemically addressing toxicity in the public square and fostering a culture of civility, respect, mutual care and wellbeing includes efforts to enhance the skills of both citizens and civic leaders in civil discourse, critical thinking, social emotional regulation, secular ethics and the centrality and importance of human well-being and compassion in a healthy society.
Toxicity in the public square causes harm to individuals and organizations, results in a loss of diversity, lost productivity, costly lawsuits, and tears at the social fabric of communities. Ultimately, it undermines our democracy and the ability for governments to work collaboratively and effectively with the public to solve the many complex problems communities face. COVID has only exacerbated these challenges, threatening local economies, main streets, and downtowns as well as the further deepening of systemic urban inequalities and local government funding shortfalls.
In short, we need each other. A notable global effort to improve the quality of civic participation and social trust is called Citizen Discourse, which promotes the practice of healthy civil discourse skills. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to voluntarily sign a Compassion Contract – a type of social contract committing them to a set of shared values that inform a community’s norms for engagement.
They are centred on a few principles—namely, be respectful; listen to understand; act with good intentions; support ideas with evidence and experience; disagree without being disagreeable; critique the idea, not the person; invite wonder.
Simon Fraser University’s Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue recently published the results of a two-year survey in which they found that 60 percent of Canadians want improved civic education and 44 percent would like more avenues for democratic participation.
Then there are the 450 cities that have adopted and signed the Charter for Compassion – a public commitment to foster safe, inclusive, and resilient communities for all that are rooted in ethical conduct and compassionate integrity.
One such Charter Compassionate City, the District of Sooke, British Columbia was already well-positioned to adapt to pandemic-exacerbated social and economic challenges. In 2019, Council adopted the Sooke Compassionate Action Plan that committed the District to partner with the community to address homelessness, the affordability crisis, social isolation, inadequate health services, and enhance public communication and collaboration. In July of this year, new homeless shelter space was quickly secured as multiple agencies rapidly banded together in the district to meet evolving community needs.
Sooke Mayor Maja Tait says part of embracing ‘the new normal’ during the pandemic is thinking outside the box, forging new relationships with community partners, and finding solutions that work for everyone. “I am grateful, but not surprised, that community partners came together under tight timelines, and found a better way to help our most vulnerable residents.”
“Our lives have been disrupted [by COVID] at local and global levels. Inequities have surfaced into full view. While our situation could be frustrating, frightening and even depressing, signs of potential for positive change and community growth have also emerged. We are all being urged to display creativity, compassion in these trying times. To become anything of true worth requires commitment and learning.
Where do we begin? I began with myself and my office. We were some of the first to take Compassionate Integrity Training. Even though compassion may sound like a soft skill set, it has very hard outcomes. Research shows that businesses that practice compassion increase their bottom line, that compassion decreases bullying in schools and increases the body’s immune system and other healing properties. We need compassion now more than ever.”
As this column goes to press, the first such training tailored uniquely for civic leaders, called Resilient Civic Leadership: Compassionate Integrity Training for Civic Leaders will be graduating its first cohort representing elected officials, Chief Administrative Officers, and other senior civic leaders from 16 different municipalities across Canada. Graduates receive a university certificate from the Centre for Compassion Integrity and Secular Ethics, Life University.
COVID has laid bare our interconnectedness as people, communities, and nations. As we work together to protect and heal ourselves physically from the ravages of COVID, we can also heal the fabric and soul of our communities, democracy, and planet. For better or for worse, we really are in this together.
 DIANE KALEN-SUKRA, MA, CMC is PSD’s Civic Resilience columnist. She is an author, speaker, educator, coach and certified culture change consultant with the Barrett Values Centre. Diane’s firm Kalen Consulting inspires and equips leaders to build resilient communities through good governance, asset management, servant leadership, compassionate culture, and civic education.
“You have a variant (B.1.1.7) that’s 50 per cent more transmissible and you’re using the same tool box and control efforts that barely worked against the previous variant…So of course the prevalence will increase. It might be a bit more or a bit less but if you’re reopening and you have a more transmissible variant, cases will increase. It’s not even really rocket science.” (Chris Bauch, University Research Chair in the Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Waterloo).
By Ray Rivers
March 21st, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
That vaccines are rolling out across the province is comforting, except that we’ve hardly made a dent in getting to herd immunity. About a million doses have been administered and we need more like 20 times that amount to allow us to get back to some kind of normal. And now we hear that there is a third wave of infections on our doorstep, driven by the variants which are as much as 50% more contagious, demand more hospitalization and are more deadly. So, we are in trouble.
 A field hospital set up by the Army in a parking lot at Sunnybook hospital For over a year now we’ve been in some kind of tiresome on-again-off-again series of restrictions against interpersonal contact. But Ontario’s premier has an itchy trigger finger and can’t break the habit of jumping the gun. He’s done this before. Despite predictions of a second wave last autumn, Ford relaxed public health restrictions resulting in record breaking infection numbers, nearly full hospitals and about 1000 more fatalities. And then Ford refused to re-impose further restrictions until the end of the year, again despite medical advice, and after the virus had firmly embedded itself in our community.
And now, even as Ontario’s COVID-19 Science Advisory Table has told him that we are headed for an ever greater third wave of infections, Mr. Ford is threatening to lessen restrictions on congregate activity rather than tighten them. Having rescinded the stay at home order he has just recently authorized more establishments to reopen. Despite all the impressive compassion he delivers at his media briefings, he clearly doesn’t get it – doesn’t understand the dynamics in play – or it’s all just an act.
 The image on the right is what scientists think the spike portion of a variant virus looks like. Right now we are in the midst of a race between the new virus variants galloping at full speed to infect and kill more people versus protecting enough folks from the virus through vaccination. And the virus is winning. We know this virus continuously mutates, and it’s pure math that the more virus present, the greater the probability of mutation. Just look at the UK, South Africa, Brazil and more recently California. Who knows, there may be an even more powerful variant around the corner?
We have been told that by September everyone in the country should have been administered the vaccine. In as little as six months, then, we might be in a position where the viral contagion no longer will keep our businesses shut and our families and friends distant from their loved ones. It’s a long time but not as long as what the Premier’s failed public health policy has put us through so far. We either choke the virus by locking down or we face the potential consequences of a viral epidemic largely left unchecked.
So Mr. Premier. It’s time to stop gambling with our health and declare a proper lockdown. This province needs a new game plan to check the virus while we get the rest of our population protected with vaccines.
We need a complete province-wide shut down of all congregate activities which are not completely essential, and some kind of compensation for those people whose incomes will be lost in the process. We need another stay at home order and possibly a Quebec styled curfew. We need to close the Ontario border to interprovincial travel, as Manitoba and the Atlantic provinces have done. And we need to keep it that way for at least three weeks, from what the experts are telling us.
It’s not an impossible task. China, where the virus originated, did this last year. The country has had an occasional outbreak since, imported from outside the country, but has been able to trace and isolate all contacts. And life is pretty much back to normal there now. It is the same story with Vietnam, Taiwan, Australia and New Zealand. There are no Chinese or New Zealand variants being created. And their communities have not had to experience second, let alone third waves of infection.
We only need to look at the Atlantic provinces which are Canada’s star performers in fighting the epidemic. History will show that those jurisdictions which dealt effectively with the epidemic have come out of it relatively unscathed. Meanwhile those which failed, like Ontario, have seen their small businesses devastated by the on-again-off-again restrictions; witnessed increases in inequality, mental illness, government debt; and, sadly, unforgivable loss of human lives.
New Zealanders went back to normal last year after only a few weeks in total lockdown. Today, the only way the virus enters there, as it did everywhere else, is by international travel. But even a single new case warrants a total lockdown there, including area roadblocks and severe penalties for those flaunting the rules. Had Mr. Trudeau followed the lead of his friend, Jacinda Ardern, we would have had an effective quarantine system in place over a year ago, holding those foreign variants in check.
 New Zealand Premier Jacinda Ardern, won re-election based on her leadership during the Covid 19 crisis in her country. Will Ontario re-election Doug Ford based on his performance. Prime Minster Ardern is a hero in her country for leading the people in their fight to eliminate the epidemic. She won an overwhelming parliamentary majority in her last election, something rare for any country with a proportional representative electoral system, and the first such win in New Zealand’s history. She is so well regarded that NZ scientists recently named a newly discovered subspecies of the weta, a giant flightless cricket after her – the Hemiandrus jacinda.
We also recently uncovered a new species here in Canada, identified first in the west end of Toronto. It has been tentatively named the the Etobicoke slug. Still, I doubt anyone would suggest renaming it after our premier, despite the sluggish way he has been dealing with the epidemic. And besides wasn’t there a 70’s Canadian pop group with that moniker?
 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 against Cam Jackson in 1995, the year Mike Harris and the Common Sense Revolution swept the province.
Background links”
Third Wave – Variants The COVID Story – Australians – Atlantic Success –
Jacinda – The Etobicoke Slug – Doug and the Slugs –
 By Pepper Parr
March 19th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Set out below is a statement the Mayor posted on her Facebook page.
What disturbs me is what a colleague described as “… so much “me too, me too” that it’s embarrassing – like something out of High School.”
 Mayor Marianne Meed Ward Missing is any sense of grace or civility. Mayor Marianne Meed Ward knows that her Council colleague Lisa Kearns earned the identical professional designation but our Mayor was not able to congratulate the ward 2 Councillor for her accomplishment.
Missed was an opportunity to tell people that Burlington is probably the only municipality in Ontario (perhaps the whole country) to have two people on council who have earned the designation and both are female.
What is wrong with this woman – it isn’t just all about her.
Where are her oft used phases: collaboration, working together as part of a team. Meed Ward says frequently that Burlington has a “giddy up” city council.
The statement explains why several of the Councillors don’t want to put up with the way the Mayor interacts with them. Not a good sign as Council moves into the final term of their mandate.
Time for a reset if she expects to get re-elected.
This is such a disappointment after the success of getting a new Official Plan in place and changing where high rise developments will appear.
She can be better than this.
 By Blair Smith
March 19th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
A press release received today from PSD CITYWIDE announced “North America’ Top 20 Open Cities”.
PSD is a corporation with offices in Burlington that serves the municipal sector as consultants, advisors and software providers.
 The organization that gave the city the award published a lot of background material for the municipal sector. Their award sounded like something worth knowing about and certainly something worth celebrating. The ‘presser’ begins with “Today, PSD announces North America’s Most Open Cities with the City of Edmonton, Alberta maintaining their number one spot for the fifth consecutive time. Next, Ottawa, Ontario moves into the second place spot, with Winnipeg, Manitoba coming in third. All top 3 organizations achieved excellent scores and made great strides this year in all three competency categories.” According to the ranking, the City of Burlington is tied with the City of Coral Gables as the 9th Most Open city in North America.
On its face this appears to be a remarkable achievement and one certainly worthy of having a temporary primacy of place on the COB and/or Mayor’s Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and various other social media accounts. However, appearances (and awards) can be deceptive. First, just how many jurisdictions were included in the ‘competition’ and analysis? Remember there are over 400 municipalities in Ontario alone. How many more (or comparable governance bodies) across Canada; how many state and county organizations? The number must be well into the thousands. But, according to the press release, only 41 organizations across North America participated. Is the response then even statistically relevant?
Secondly, to implicitly associate Open Government with the survey’s three evaluation contexts for “open data” is perhaps both misleading and inaccurate.
Open data does not automatically equate with open information and most certainly does not, in itself, constitute open government – not even close. So, the sampling is statistically insignificant, the association perhaps misleading and the ranking virtually meaningless when you consider the sample size. Even so, how did the responding organizations do? How shining is their example? Well, the average score of the 41 was a completely miserable 34.9%. Burlington in the exalted 9th position was barely above 50%.
Really, this is hardly something worthy of a press release; if it does perhaps the banner should read “North America’s Top 20 Most Open Cities Are Still Closed Shops To Their Citizens”.
Blair Smith is a retired provincial civil servant who delegates frequently at city hall and has very strong views on both open data and open, transparent municipal government.
 By Staff
March 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Starting Friday, March 19, Halton residents who are 75 years of age and older and Indigenous adults (including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit populations) 55 years of age and older who live in Halton can book an appointment to receive their COVID-19 vaccine at a Halton Region COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic. Appointments are available to book in March and April.
“This is another important step in our plan to get our most vulnerable Halton residents vaccinated as quickly as possible, as supplies are available,” said Halton Regional Chair Gary Carr. “I would like to thank Halton Region, Joseph Brant Hospital and Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital staff who have been working tirelessly to open our vaccination clinics in each of our municipalities, and our teams who have been doing a tremendous job administering vaccinations.”
Halton Region continues to follow Provincial directions on eligibility, including vaccinating vulnerable populations as part of the Province’s three-phase vaccine implementation plan. To ensure Indigenous voices were included in decision-making for Halton’s COVID-19 Vaccination Program, the Region initiated engagement with Indigenous communities and organizations in and around Halton, including the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, the Credit River Métis Council, Indigenous Affairs Ontario, Urban Indigenous Organizations servicing the GTHA and highly regarded Indigenous healthcare professionals. These engagements will continue to ensure that Halton’s clinics are respectful of both the priority given to vaccinating this population and Indigenous cultures.
 Halton has opened COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics in Burlington, Halton Hills, Oakville and Milton. Eligible Halton residents 75 years of age and older and Indigenous adults 55 years of age and older can book their vaccination appointment at any one of the clinics, including the COVID-19 Vaccination Centre at Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital starting March 19. Additional locations will continue to be identified as required. Residents are reminded that appointments must be booked through Halton’s online booking system or through 311. Bookings for Halton’s clinics are not available through the Provincial booking system; residents who access the Provincial booking system will be guided back to Halton’s system.
“As our vaccination program ramps up, I want to remind residents that the COVID-19 virus and the transmission of the variants is still very concerning,” said Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Halton Region’s Medical Officer of Health. “Vaccines are just one important tool to help stop the spread of the virus and we must remain vigilant – please continue to stay home as much as possible, limit close contact to people you live with and go out for essentials only. These everyday decisions are critical over the next few weeks and months to prevent the severity of a third wave and will help to get us back to normal sooner.”
Important information & instructions:
• In addition to groups currently eligible, on Friday, March 19, the following groups (or someone booking on their behalf) will also be able to book a COVID-19 vaccination appointment through Halton’s online booking system:
o Halton residents who are 75 years of age and older (born in 1946 or earlier); and,
o Indigenous adults (including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit populations) living in Halton who are 55 years of age and older.
• While booking online is the fastest way to schedule an appointment, residents can also call 311 if they require booking support. Residents who are not currently eligible to receive the vaccine are asked to please not call 311 or visit the online booking system to ensure eligible residents have access.
• Vaccinations are by appointment only (no walk-ins) and must be booked through Halton Region’s online system or through 311. Please do not contact clinics directly. Bookings are not available through the Provincial booking system; residents who access the Provincial booking system will be guided back to Halton’s system.
• All appointments are contingent on the availability of vaccine supply.
• Halton Region continues to offer transportation services to and from appointments for residents who require support, free of charge.
• To maintain physical distancing and safety measures, please arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment (not earlier) and remember to wear a mask/face covering.
To learn more about Halton Region’s COVID-19 Vaccine Program, including who is currently eligible, transportation options and how to book an appointment, please visit halton.ca/COVIDvaccines.
By Staff
March 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Think big Burlington; Community-led projects could receive up to $10,000
The City of Burlington is now accepting applications for the Neighbourhood Community Matching Fund (NCMF), where approved projects could receive up to $10,000.
The deadline for submissions is April 30, 2021.
 A number of years ago these boys wanted to fix up the neighbourhood ball park They succeeded – using grant money and sweat equity. Created to inspire residents to champion community-led projects, the goal of the NCMF is to improve neighbourhoods by creating a sense of belonging and community pride, while building meaningful connections.
Burlington residents are encouraged to submit community-led project plans that help make our city a better place to live and play. Inspired by the unique needs of residents and community groups, projects can increase walkability, promote beautification, encourage recreational activity, build social connections and improve safety or accessibility. These projects are to be planned, led and implemented by, and for the community in a public setting.
All projects must comply with the current public health regulations and provincial framework during development and implementation.
For 2021, the Neighbourhood Community Matching Fund will focus on small projects that enhance infrastructure amenities within parks, gardens, buildings on public lands or on lands that are accessible to the public that meet the goal of the fund.
Burlington residents interested in applying for funds are encouraged to visit burlington.ca/matchingfund to learn more about the application process, guidelines and past projects.
How the fund works
The NCMF provides up to $10,000 in funding to support selected neighbourhood and community group-led projects in Burlington.
Approved projects receive up to 50 per cent of the funding for the project from the city to a maximum of $10,000.
That means the project could be something that comes in at $20,000.
The neighbourhood or community group will match this funding with an equal contribution made up through any combination of volunteer hours, donated services, donated materials and supplies or other funds raised, such as cash donations.
For more information or to apply, visit burlington.ca/matchingfund.
There have been some really interesting projects that have benefited a lot of people.
 Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture believes that “Grassroots community building is where we get great value for money. Community-led initiatives that can build connectedness, walkability, visual appeal, recreation opportunities and better understanding can have lasting and meaningful impacts for years to come. If you have an idea for your community, take a look at the website and consider moving it from idea to reality.”
By Staff
March 16th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Here is how it works.
A resident from the Tyandaga area had a vaccination appointment. When it comes to being critical and direct – he is amongst the best.
His experience in getting vaccinated follows…
 A change in the second dose appointment date is handed out. I arrived at the vaccination station and security asked my name and designated vaccination time. They checked a list for validation.
I was 30 minutes early and was asked to return in 15 minutes (they did ask if I came by car and could wait in it) since it appeared that there was no real waiting area available inside the building (probably to avoid ‘crowding’).
After Security at the front door, I was then asked by Halton Staff to show my health card.
They then led me to the vaccination hall. Here there were three rows (A, B, C) each row containing 10 chairs (5 chairs side-by-side) in the row – all the chairs were separated by at least 6 feet.
On each chair was the literature that I have attached.
Each row of 5 was serviced by a Vaccination giver and an assistant. They went from client to client in their designated row (back and forth).
Before the vaccination, a number of questions were asked mostly to do with medication currently taken and any allergic reactions to specific medication.
If all was OK, then they gave you the shot of Phizer mRNA vaccine (make sure you have a short-sleeved shirt / vest on!).
After the vaccination, you were given a time that you could leave the vaccination area – 15 minutes from the time of the vaccination.
On leaving you were directed to the exit and again met by Halton staff who presented you with a Ministry of Heath certification of your vaccination and also the time and date of your second dose (note: this has been extended from 3 weeks to 4 months in order to give more people their first dose.)
Note: NO photos were permitted in the vaccination hall and this was strictly yet politely enforced. There also seemed to be security cameras scanning the whole operation
This was a very well organized operation with pleasant and helpful staff and the whole procedure from start to finish took approximately 30 minutes.
In fact, in my experience, from the initial registration phone call to the actual Pfizer ‘jab’ Halton should be complimented at their efficiency of delivery.
By Staff
March 16th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) are investigating a series of pharmacy robberies that police believe to be connected.
On February 15, 2021, at approximately 3:55 pm three males entered Halton Pharmacy on Speers Road in Oakville and demanded the pharmacist turnover narcotics from the safe. After stealing the drugs, the suspects fled the area in an SUV. No weapons were seen or mentioned and no physical injuries were sustained.
 No one physically injured during the incident at this location. On February 19, 2021, at approximately 5:15 pm three males entered IDA Pharmacy and Alton Village Medical Clinic on Thomas Alton Boulevard in Burlington and demanded the pharmacist turnover narcotics. They were unsuccessful in obtaining any drugs however they did steal cash from the register. They fled the area in an SUV. The suspects indicated they were armed, but no weapons were observed. Nobody was physically injured during the incident.
On March 14, 2021, at approximately 7:05 pm four males entered Rexall Pharma Plus on Lakeshore Road West in Oakville. They again targeted narcotics from the safe and were able to steal a quantity of prescription drugs and cash. On this occasion, one of the suspects was armed with a kitchen knife. They fled the area in a sedan. Two victims suffered minor physical injuries during this robbery.
In each incident the suspects have been wearing masks however they appear to be between 16-22 years of age.
Police want to remind the public of the following safety tips:
- Always be vigilant of your surroundings
- If you find yourself present during a robbery, remain calm. Do not argue with the robbers or attempt to disarm them
- Try and note/remember as many details as possible
- Do not touch or move anything discarded or left behind by the robbers
- Once safe to do so, call 911 and remain at the scene until police arrive
 Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Detective Barry Malciw of the 2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4777 ext. 2218.
Police would also be interested in any dash cam footage residents may have of the suspects and their vehicles in the area and time of the robberies.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. “See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.
By Pepper Parr
March 16th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
How did this get so screwed up?
The province had months to create a web site that people would use to register for a Covid19 vaccination.
They day they opened it up – it failed. They appear to have fixed it.
 On the same day the retired Army General who was overseeing the distribution of the vaccines in the province quits. Maybe the $20,000 a month he was being paid (this on top of an Armed Forces pension) wasn’t enough. Or maybe he stood back and saw nothing but a disaster on its way and chose to step aside. Question – did he get vaccinated before he quit?
There are very legitimate concerns about one of the vaccines; the AstraZeneca vaccine is reported to have resulted in blood clots in some people.
The Prime Minister assures us that the batch that had the problems is not the batch of vaccines that we are using in Canada. Do you feel assured? I don’t.
Remember the thalidomide tragedy; those poor souls only recently got acceptable support and compensation.
For those who don’t recognize the word thalidomide it was a pharmaceutical that was prescribed for pregnant women. Far too many gave birth to children with no arms – just stubs instead of a fully formed arm.
Tragedies like this happen when governments fail to do the job the public expects. There is good reason to ask if the same kind of incompetence, let’s be candid and call it what it is – stupidity, is happening to us now.
We have failed terribly to ensure that we would have access to the vaccines the government should have known would be needed.
The buck on situations like this rests at the very top.
Instead all we are getting from the leadership at the federal and provincial levels are bromides – people are beginning to become frightened; the last thing we need is a public that no longer trusts and begins to do what human beings do – look out for their own interests.
The best source of the news and information people need in Burlington comes from the Regional level – The Public Health Unit for Halton struggled like everyone else at the beginning to get organized.
When this is all over hopefully there will be an opportunity to tell the full story about the job these people have done.
In the meantime, we wait. There is more that can be done. Governments react to protest – if you are worried, scream blue murder and let the leadership at the federal and provincial levels know that what they are doing is just not good enough.
There have been a few examples of superb leadership – try naming one.
Elections will take place in the not too distant future.
Salt with Pepper is the musings, reflections and opinions of the publisher of the Burlington Gazette, an online newspaper that was formed in 2010 and is a member of the National Newsmedia Council.
By Staff
March 16th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Our apologies to the City Communications department. The provenance of the article was attributed to the city. That was incorrect.
The following was released this morning by the Mayor’s Covid19 Task Force.
The Burlington COVID-19 Task Force has been created to help support our community through this unprecedented emergency.
Purpose
The Task Force will share information and mobilize community and agency resources to support our hospital and healthcare workers as we prepare for an anticipated surge of patients in the coming days and weeks and work through a recovery period, as well as coordinate our broader community efforts on COVID-19. Members will bring information and/or requests for assistance back to each of their own organizations and emergency response tables.
While this information-sharing and collaboration is already happening, the Task Force simply formalizes this effort and adds some structure as we collectively serve our community.
Membership
Membership includes community leaders and decision-makers representing various organizations and agencies involved in the COVID-19 response. New members may be added as the situation evolves. Each participant is likely to be a member of their own organization’s COVID-19 response group, with an ability to bring information from that table, where appropriate, to the Task Force, and vice versa.
Invitees are similar to the panelists on the Mayor’s recent public telephone town hall. Community response to that event was overwhelmingly positive, with residents specifically mentioning that they appreciated the assembled panel of cross-functional experts and leaders, and seeing the evidence of collaboration, sharing of information and coordinating of efforts to serve them.
 A table this size could not hold the Burlington Covid19 Task Force. Fortunately they meet virtually – more fortunate – many of them don’t show up. Invited guests/organizations at this time:
Chair, Mayor Marianne Meed Ward
City of Burlington Emergency Control Group:
Burlington Fire Department: Karen Roche, Deputy Fire Chief
Amber Rushton, Business Continuity and Emergency Planning CEMC
Dan VanderLelie, President, Burlington Professional Firefighters Association
City of Burlington: o Tim Commisso, City Manager, Allan Magi, Executive Director of Environment, Infrastructure and Community Services, Sandy O’Reilly, Controller and Manager of Financial Services.
City Council:
Ward 2 Councillor and Joseph Brant Hospital Board Member, Lisa Kearns
Ward 6 Councillor, business owner and past hospital fundraiser, Angelo Bentivegna
Joseph Brant Hospital: o Eric Vandewall, CEO and President, Dr. Dale Kalina, Medical Director of Infectious Disease
Halton Regional Police Service: Roger Wilkie, Deputy Chief of Police, Superintendent Anthony Odoardi
Halton District School Board: Stuart Miller, Director of Education
Halton Catholic District School Board , Pat Daly, Director of Education
Halton Region: Lynne Simons, Senior Advisor to the CAO
Members of Parliament: The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, MP, Burlington
Pam Damoff, MP, Oakville-North Burlington, Adam Van Koeverden, MP, Milton
Members of Provincial Parliament
Jane McKenna, MPP, Burlington, Effie Triantafilopoulos, MPP, Oakville-North Burlington, Parm Gill, MPP, Milton
TEAM Burlington: Carla Nell, Burlington Chamber of Commerce, Anita Cassidy, Burlington Economic Development, Pam Belgrade, Tourism Burlington, Brian Dean, Burlington Downtown Business Association, Judy Worsley, Aldershot Business Improvement Area
Lita Barrie, CEO, Burlington Public Library
United Way Halton & Hamilton, Halton Poverty Roundtable, Tyler Moon, Senior Manager, Community Impact
The Burlington Food Bank: Robin Bailey, Executive Director
Burlington Hydro: o Gerry Smallegange, President & CEO
Reach Out Centre for Kids: Kirsten Dougherty, Chief Executive Officer
Royal Hamilton Light Infantry: Lieutenant Colonel and Commanding Officer Alex Colic
Diocese of Hamilton: Rev. Rob Thomas, Chaplain, Burlington Fire Department
Halton Islamic Association, Sr. Osob
NUVO Network, o Bridget and Shawn Saulnier, Owners
Burlington Foundation: o Colleen Mulholland, President and CEO
Food for Life, Graham Hill, Executive Director
Meetings
Meetings are expected to be one hour weekly, or more often as necessary, by teleconference chaired by the Mayor. With this large of a group, sometimes full attendance will not be possible. We will plan to send out a summary of each call the next day to all members, as well as post highlights here for the public to read.
Action Items and Meeting Minutes
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #19 – March 15, 2021 [PDF]
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #18 – Feb. 22, 2021 [PDF]
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #17 – Jan. 26, 2021 [PDF]
2020 Action Items and Meeting Minutes
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #16 – Dec. 3, 2020 [PDF]
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #15 – Oct. 29, 2020 [PDF]
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #14 – Oct. 1, 2020 [PDF]
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #13 – Aug. 26, 2020 [PDF]
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #12 – July 16, 2020 [PDF]
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #11 – June 25, 2020 [PDF]
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #10 – June 18, 2020 [PDF]
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #9 – June 4, 2020 [PDF]
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #8 – May 28, 2020 [PDF]
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #7 – May 21, 2020 [PDF]
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #6 – May 15, 2020 [PDF]
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #5 – May 7, 2020 [PDF]
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #4 – April 30, 2020 [PDF]
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #3 – April 23, 2020 [PDF]
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #2 – April 16, 2020 [PDF]
• Burlington COVID-19 Task Force Meeting #1 – April 7, 2020 [PDF]
This is the media release the city distributed. This is bureaucracy run amok
 By Jan Mowbray
March 16th, 2021
MILTON, ON
I have a real problem regarding the dearth of information available with regard to vaccinations.
Living in Halton, specifically Milton, my friends and I are exhorted to visit the Halton Region website for vaccination information, which I have done several times now. It’s been time wasted so far. The only information there pertains to the 80+ crowd and while I would never wish to deny the group early dibs at the vaccine – God and everyone else knows how hard this pandemic has been on seniors – where am I in the picture?
 But what about the 70 plus group, which is where I am? Why is there no reference at all on the Region’s website for the rest of us – the +70s, the 60’s etc.? Even a vague mention that you have our backs would be encouraging, that you know we’re here and waiting, with increasing impatience.
In Toronto, they’ve gone from vaccination information for the 80+ group, front line workers, and many others. No mention of the 70+ cohort but I’ve seen quite a bit of information for the 60+ to get their shots.
All very good for those living in Toronto but meanwhile, back here in Halton, how about information for vaccinations for those below 80?
I got a Tweet today from one of our regional councilors telling me to visit the Halton website for vaccination information. Thanks, Mike, been there, done that. I’m no more aware than I was before your Tweet. Not happy. I just want some, ANY, information.
Jan Mowbray was a member of the Town of Milton council for two terms
 By Pepper Parr
March 16th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Who can get vaccinated now – how do they register?
It is a little on the confusing side when you try to register for a vaccination.
The province opened up its web site yesterday – it didn’t work all that well – but they appear to have solved the problems.
So – if you live in Burlington, or anywhere in the Region, and you are using the provincial web site to make a vaccination appointment that web site will push you over to the Regional site which has worked very well from the day they opened it up.
Biggest concern is – who can register.
Those over 80.
Those working in the medical field – and they all go to the Oakville Trafalgar Hospital.
Those in long term care housing have been taken care of. The Region went to extraordinary effort to ensure those people were vaccinated. They had mobile units that went to each location.
The rest of us have to wait until the medical people know that they have vaccines in stock and that they can meet the demand. Then, and only then will things open up for vaccination registrations.
There is a lot of data on the Regional web site. The link to that web site is HERE
We are going to have to learn to be patient and we must continue to follow the rules.
Six feet apart – wear the mask. If you have to get out of the house and have dinner with people – make sure you are dining with people that you live with. Yes that does limit things – the objective is to prevent the spread of a virus that is proving to be quite a bit smarter than anyone expected.
By Staff
March 16th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
With people now being able to register on line for a vaccination appointment and actual vaccinations taking place it is useful to look at the data the Regional Public Health unit has put together.
The data from a Regional perspective:
 The variant versions of the virus are the huge concern. They are proving to be more deadly than the first version of the virus and they spread much faster.
The data from a Burlington perspective:
 The number of variant cases is low – but these variants travel very very quickly. Reports are that we are now into a third wave.. The data that related directly to Burlington. There are variant versions of the virus in the community.
There is a desperate race to get people vaccinated before the variant versions of the virus spread.
Related news stories:
Medical Officer of Health concerned about variant version of the virus
By Staff
March 13th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
We all play a role in recognizing Canada’s volunteers.
Great volunteers come from everywhere.
Until April 8, 2021, Canada’s Volunteer Awards (CVA) will be accepting applications for its National Advisory Committee (NAC).
Members of the National Advisory Committee play a leading role in the selection of Canada’s Volunteer Awards recipients by reviewing nominations and making recommendations to the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development. They also support the promotion of the program throughout their term.
 Volunteers sweep the boardwalk after Hurricane Sandy The committee consists of 15 volunteer members from across Canada who are passionate about volunteering. They are selected based on their knowledge and experience working or volunteering in support of community development. Additionally, members reflect Canada’s diversity and serve for a term of three years. If you have experience in one of the following sectors, you might have what the committee needs:
a not-for-profit organization
the charitable sector
the health sector
the social services sector
a service provider
the private sector, or
a municipality.
Employment and Social Development Canada is accepting applications until April 8, 2021. If you want to learn more about this opportunity or to apply, CLICK HERE
 By Staff
March 11th, 2012
BURLINGTON, ON
It’s Salamander mating season. And to do what that salamander needs to do to maintain the species he has to cross King Road – which means for a period of time King Road will be closed to traffic. This year, the road is already closed for construction of a nearby subdivision.
 The green patch has been identified as a natural habitat for the salamander and will not have public access. The shaded parts are land the Nelson Aggregate people want to extend their license to quarry. The large open area in the middle if the current quarry site that is reaching its extraction limits. The annual passage of the endangered Jefferson salamanders during their breeding migration will begin soon on King Road near the base of the Niagara Escarpment to Mountain Brow Road. Since 2012, the City of Burlington has closed the same section of road for the salamanders which are a nationally and provincially protected endangered species.
The Jefferson Salamander has an exalted place in the minds of the environmentalists who want to keep the escarpment lands as pristine as possible which for them means not allowing any increasing in the size of the Nelson Aggregate open pit off Side Road number 2 at Guelph Line.
After failing to have an application to expand the pit in 2015 Nelson has filed a new application that sets aside land for the salamander.
That Nelson application is working its way through the application process.
 Jefferson Salamander – becoming a cult figure with the various vested interests working to give them a place to live. About the Jefferson Salamander
In Canada, the Jefferson salamander is found in Southern Ontario in select areas of deciduous forest, mostly along the Niagara Escarpment.
Jefferson salamanders spend most of their lives underground. As the weather warms up and the spring rains begin, the salamanders emerge and migrate to breed in temporary ponds formed by run-off, laying their eggs in clumps attached to underwater vegetation. Adults leave the ponds after breeding. By late summer, the larvae lose their gills, become air-breathing juveniles and leave the pond to head into the surrounding forests.
Adult salamanders migrate to their breeding ponds during wet rainy nights. They show a strong affinity for the pond in which they hatched and can be very determined to reach it, sometimes causing them to cross busy roads.
Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward appears to have adopted the Jefferson salamander – referring to them as “Jeff” in her comments which we share below.
“The Jefferson Salamanders are a unique part of Burlington’s biodiversity and have become a truly beloved part of our local community. At the City of Burlington, in partnership with Conservation Halton, we’re glad to play a small role in protecting the salamanders while raising awareness about their endangered status – ‘Jeff’ also is earning an unofficial mascot status for our city. Closing off this section of King Road each year is proving to be an effective tool in supporting the survival and recovery of this rare species. I’m always grateful to our residents for being willing to inconvenience themselves for a short period of time to help ensure ‘Jeffs’ numbers flourish in the future.”
 Hassaan Basit, President and CEO, Conservation Halton Hassaan Basit, President and CEO, Conservation Halton chimes in with: “With all due respect to Wiarton Willie, here in Burlington, we look to the Jefferson Salamander to let us know that spring is on its way. As the warmer weather and rain arrive, the Jefferson Salamanders head towards breeding ponds, that without human intervention, would require some of them to make a dangerous trek across King Road. Conservation Halton is proud to partner with the City of Burlington each year to ensure that the salamanders can safely make their way to the ponds.”
The Jefferson salamander is protected at both the provincial and national levels. It was added to Ontario’s endangered species list in 2011.
Unlike most small animals, Jefferson salamanders can live a very long time; up to 30 years of age.
By Staff
March 13th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Several months ago, Stuart Miller, Director of Education for Halton District School Board, announced his retirement effective August 2021.
The Board of Trustees has begun the search process for a new Director of Education and have retained Joan M Green and Associates/Lough Barnes Consulting Group to guide them in the selection process.
 Board Chair Grebenc has worked well with the Director of Education The trustees have decided to look to the community for comments and are inviting members of the community to participate in a voluntary survey to share their thoughts on the most important leadership attributes for a new Director of Education.
Please complete the Director’s Search Survey by 11:59 pm on Friday, March 19, 2021. It will take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete and is anonymous.
Andréa Grebenc, Chair for the Halton District School Board said: “The feedback received will assist us in developing a leadership profile and mandate for this critical role. The consultation process allows the Board to gather feedback on the characteristics, competencies and commitments necessary for effective leadership in the context of HDSB’s strengths, challenges and opportunities.”
 By Staff
March 12th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
That $400 million the federal government is handing out over a five year period – was given to every municipality in the country.
Each of those now has to put together their proposals and basically compete for the dollars.
It’s a good move – getting people outside never hurts.
The media release explained it this way:
 Given the opportunity the people of Burlington get out every chance they get. Today, the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, and Parliamentary Secretary Andy Fillmore announced $400 million over five years to help build new and expanded networks of pathways, bike lanes, trails and pedestrian bridges, as well as support for repairs and planning studies. This is the first federal fund dedicated to building active transportation through Canada – powered by people – and part of the Government of Canada’s plan to create one million jobs, fight climate change, and build a more sustainable and resilient economy.
The new $400-million fund is part of an eight-year, $14.9-billion public transit investment outlined by Prime Minister Trudeau and Minister McKenna on February 10, 2021. It will support communities as they build vibrant neighborhoods where people can safely live, work and play. The fund will also help Canadians living in rural communities and places without active transportation options to unlock the potential in their communities.
 Walking trails and quiet countryside. In concert with this new fund, Minister McKenna and Parliamentary Secretary Fillmore also launched stakeholder engagement for Canada’s first Active Transportation Strategy. The strategy will be informed by input from the public and key stakeholders including provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous communities and not-for-profit organizations and businesses and will help the federal government make smarter investment decisions to:
• Support the active transportation networks of the future;
• Promote healthier, walkable communities that are environmentally sustainable and affordable; and
• Support better data collection to ensure measurable outcomes.
Watch carefully for how you community responds to this opportunity. Burlington is currently working on a Cycling Master Plan that is going to need to need millions to be completed – this fund appears to be tailor made for the Transportation people.
By Pepper Parr
March 11th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
If you are a true democrat there is nothing nicer than an election.
If you’re a candidate – the push for power and a chance to get things done that you believe need to be done can be quite a rush.
2022 is an election year for both city hall and the provincial legislature. And this time around we just might see people holding a seat at city hall thinking they rather like the seats in the Legislature.
The Liberals are out looking for a candidate – a number of people have been approached – two and maybe three council members.
 Some Liberals thought she was too divisive. Not, surprisingly, the Mayor, who we thought had her eyes on the seat that Jane McKenna currently holds, would be in the running.
Meed Ward could not walk away from the work she has set out for herself, and the city of course, after just one term as Mayor.
We were surprised to hear Liberals saying, not suggesting, that Meed Ward was too divisive. I didn’t see that one coming.
 Councillors Stolte, Kearns and Nisan: were all three invited to look at Queen’s Park. Two of them were.
The Liberals we are hearing from – no one is talking for attribution and the current President of the Burlington Provincial Liberal Association isn’t returning our calls, suggests to us that Lisa Kearns has indicated she could get used to travelling to Toronto for work.
I have been working on a sit down meeting with Kearns (she knows what I want to talk about) for the best part of this week – we haven’t managed to line up dates that work for both of us.
Bit of cat and mouse going on.
While 2022 is well over a year away, in the world of politics you begin organizing and putting out the feelers to the financial people.
The day of the big big dollar donations is over – takes a lot of work to bring in those hundreds of $50 and $100 dollar donations.
In 2022 things will get a little rushed as well – the province will send us to the polls on October 3rd and the municipalities will do the same thing on the 24th of October.
 Doug Ford – He just might have a deal for you. Covid19 has messed up everything taking place – it will probably do the same with the provincial date.
If Doug Ford can get a bit of a break and get enough of us vaccinated before those variant strains of Covid19 begin to run rampant he would be smart to call a snap election.
Problem with that is we really haven’t seen very much in the way of smart thinking so far have we?
The scientist’s world-wide have gotten us to where we are and for that we should all be grateful.
Salt with Pepper is the musings, reflections and opinions of the publisher of the Burlington Gazette, an online newspaper that was formed in 2010 and is a member of the National Newsmedia Council.
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