 By Pepper Parr
May 29th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
That didn’t take her very long.
 Andrea Grebenc seeking the Liberal nomination for the 2022 provincial election. District School Board Chair Andrea Grebenc announced her intention to seek the Liberal nomination as the candidate for the 2022 provincial election
The Gazette did an interview, published it earlier today.
Then we get an announcement that Grebenc will be holding a Zoom Town Hall Sunday evening 7:00 pm.
Registration:
https://forms.gle/Y1ATWiR9tR2wS5fm9
 Miriam Manaa – also seeking the Liberal nomination. Glad she chose Sunday – watching the Habs take the Leafs in a critical game is my Saturday night priority.
The Gazette has been in touch with the other candidate for the nomination Miriam Manaa and will be interviewing her as soon as possible.
 By Eugene Katrell
May 29th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Despite all the economic chaos of the last year, there are certain industries that are enjoying more success than ever.
This is particularly true of the online casino sector, which has posted industry records for the last year, including increases in revenue and the number of new users signing up to online gambling platforms.
 The preferences for online casino gamers seems to be the more fast-paced games. Online casinos have become particularly popular as many of us wait for society to open up again in the summer months.
As more and more individuals sign up to online casino platforms for the first time, a new generation of online casino goers is discovering the enjoyment of playing classic games in an online format.
What is interesting about the preferences of online casino gamers, however, is that it seems to be the more fast-paced games that are proving to be the games of choice for these new players.
Of the many games enthralling this new wave of online casino goers, blackjack is proving to be particularly popular. This is certainly true of SuperSeven Casino, where new players have been flocking to the many blackjack variations they have on offer.
Although one of the oldest casino games around – with roots stretching all the way back to the French casinos of the 1700s – blackjack has proved to be consistently popular among casino fans. Part of this popularity is to do with the pace of the gameplay. With shorter rounds and a higher rate of turnover between games, it is a popular choice for those players looking to hop in and out of a game.
But what really helps to make blackjack a popular choice among players is the fact that it has one of the lowest house edges out of all the most popular casino games. In most standard blackjack game types, players will benefit from a house edge of just 1%, which gives you a decent possibility of seeing a return on your stake over time.
With this in mind, what are the best strategies for players looking to increase their chances? Are there any concrete steps you can take or is it truly all in the hands of Lady Luck?
To answer this question, we first need to acknowledge the fact that there are not necessarily any strategies you can follow or adopt that will assure you of victory. Just like many other casino games, as a game of chance – where you have no control over what cards you or your tablemates get dealt – there is not a lot you can do to sway the odds in your favour.
Nevertheless, there are some tips, strategies and approaches you can take that might help nudge the odds in your favour over time. While not guaranteeing a victory, they might help you to see a return on your stake over the course of a few rounds.
Know the basic blackjack strategy
One of the most popular strategies is what is known as basic blackjack strategy. Adopting this approach allows you to chip away at the house edge and to reduce it to as low as 0.5%.
 Knowing the value of each card is vital – if you haven’t got these memorized – perhaps you shouldn’t be playing the game. It entails sticking to a few basic rules:
• Stand when your hand is 12 to 16 or the dealer has a 2 to 6.
• Take a hit when your hand is 12 to 16 and the dealer has a 7 to Ace.
• Always ask to split Aces and 8s.
• Go double on 11 when the dealer has a 2 to 10.
• Ask for a hit or double on Aces to 6.
Pay attention to the dealer’s up card
Although it seems obvious, newer players tend to be too focused on their own hand and forget what the dealer is working with. Always pay attention to the dealer’s up card and try to gauge what sort of hand they might have. Bad hands for the dealer will generally fall between 2 and 6, while a decent hand will be a 7 card through to an Ace.
Ignore your tablemates
When you’re playing at a crowded table, you need to remember that the only two hands that matter are your own hand and that of the dealer. Anything else is superfluous.
Don’t get caught up worrying whether the person beside you has a more competitive hand – focus on what your hand is and what you think the dealer might have to work with.
Avoid progressive betting strategies
Unlike games like roulette where there is a decent statistical chance of them paying off in the long run, progressive betting strategies don’t tend to work in a blackjack setting.
Rather than ramping up your bets in response to a win or a loss, focus on intelligent bankroll management. Blackjack is a game that rewards over the long run, so try and stay at the table for as long as possible to increase the chances of a return on your stake.
 By Staff
May 29th, 2031
BURLINGTON, ON
The LaSalle Park Marina Association (LPMA) and the Burlington Sailing and Boating Club, the LaSalle Park Community Marina will be ready to open the public boat launch on June 1.
 Marina at sunset  The new normal – parking fees New Parking Fees
Anyone parking their boat trailer at the LaSalle Park Community Marina or in the upper parking lot will now be required to pay a trailer parking fee. Trailer parking payments are required seven days a week, including holidays. It is a daily flat rate of $20 for trailer parking; there is no fee to use the public boat launch.
The parking lot has often had traffic flow problems caused by too many trailers and/or improper parking. The new paid parking requirements are intended to create more order in the lots, improve traffic flow and reduce frustrations.
Residents and visitors can use the HonkMobile app or scan the QR code found on signage at the marina to search, pay for, and top-up parking payments directly from their smartphone, tablet or computer
Users can scan the QR Code found on signage at the marina or download the HonkMobile app.
Dashboard tickets are not required as every payment is linked with a trailer licence plate number.
For more information about parking at LaSalle Park Community Marina or elsewhere, visit burlington.ca/parking.
About the LaSalle Park Community Marina
The Marina is a beautiful location for residents and tourists to launch their boats and enjoy the crisp waters of Lake Ontario and Burlington’s breathtaking lakefront views. The Marina has 219 docking spaces and is protected by a floating wave break. The Burlington Sailing and Boating Club (BS&BC) and the Able Sail program offer sailing programs at the Marina. In addition, the City has a public boat launch at the Marina that is protected by the floating wave break.
For more information about the marina, visit burlington.ca/marina.
By Pepper Parr
May 29th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
She won handily in 2014 against three other candidates for a seat as a trustee with the Halton District School Board. She used the first two years to get a feel for the job she eventually became exceptionally good at. Her colleagues thought enough of her ability to make her chair of the Board during her first term.
 Listening carefully In her second term she was acclaimed and served as the Chair of the Board every year.
In her first term she made the difficult decision to vote for the closing of two of the seven Burlington high schools one of which was in her ward. It was also the high school from which she graduated.
As the Trustee for 10 elementary schools and two high schools she busied herself with getting to know the schools, the student population and the problems. Grebenc has an open, engaging personality that says how can I help without using the words.
She is a problem solver who grew into an advocate with the strength of character to challenge the province and the way it was handling what Grebenc saw as serious flaws in the way education was being both delivered and funded. School board trustees often seem to be a little timid, more into the fluffier parts of being an elected official. Timid is not a word that gets used to describe Andrea Grebenc.
 Andrea Grebenc on the right at a major public meeting with fellow trustee Jeanne Gray. A life long Burlington resident, the child of parents who immigrated to Canada and chose Burlington as home. Grebenc was once in the Burlington Teen Tour Band and worked as a Sound of Music volunteer – both touch points for young people experiencing the city.
School started at St. Mark’s Catholic elementary school after which she went on to Lester B Pearson high school and then attended Wilfred Laurier University earning an Honours Bachelor Science degree.
The mother of three children she formed her own company offering communications and IT services.
As a trustee she took a year to get the understanding she needed to be effective.
When the province began to consult with the public on increasing class sizes and imposing mandatory e-learning courses Grebenc worked with her fellow trustees and spearheaded, the Halton Education Action team of HDSB Trustees to find out what Halton parents, guardians, and community members thought of these changes. The trustees organized, formed and ran in-person regional focus groups, surveyed the community, analyzed the data, and wrote a comprehensive report that was used as evidence against the changes.
The Halton community consultation proved to be a more robust consultation than that of the Ministry. The Halton submissions, almost 7,000 in-person and surveyed, amounted to more than the Ministry received from the rest of the province combined.
The trustees are currently advocating for evidence-based collaborative decision-making surrounding the issue of permanently expanding online and remote learning.
 Andrea Grebenc: speaks directly and is usually on point. She seldom ducks a question. She is forthright about her opinions on how Provincial decisions and directives affect students and Ontario’s education system.
As a trustee she has made the province her constituency and has focused on improving education through her work as a school board trustee.
The Grebenc profile became one that was recognized beyond the Region.
In July of 2020 it was “Whereas” after “Whereas” in the motion Grebenc put before her trustees. They were followed by the resolution:
“Be it resolved that the Chair ask the Minister of Education for clarification about who the decision maker is for the September school year start up.”
Grebenc had the support of her trustees. In comments made after the motion was tabled Grebenc said that “there are in excess of 36,000 elementary students within the Halton Board – where are those children going to be cared for should they have to distant learn ?”
“What will we get – quickly formed day care centre’s that are not regulated, not inspected with other children coming from who knows where ? The bubbles that most families created to ensure their kids were safe would not be feasible.”
Grebenc had made her mark.
 Andrea Grebenc has a strong working relationship with the Director of Education Stuart Miller. Grebenc tends to be a listener and problem solver; drama and grandstanding are tools she leaves behind.
The capacity to get things done spills over into her community work. One of her most recent projects was forming “Masks for COVID -Burlington”. In April 2020, she recruited and organized 80+ people throughout Burlington into a living, caring and productive mask-making machine. Andrea organized material procurers, cutters, sewers, and distributors, making daily rounds to transport materials and masks to Long Term Care and Retirement Homes early in the pandemic when PPE was scarce.
The original mandate was 2,000 masks, but due to the dedication of the volunteers, 3,000 masks were completed and distributed and the group was able to expand their mandate to include some local food banks.
Andrea currently sits on the Mayor’s COVID task force and provides status updates on behalf of the Halton District School Board.
Grebenc is one of two women seeking the nomination to be the Liberal candidate in the provincial election set for June of 2022. Given the current political climate in the province there are a number of reasons to believe the Premier will call a snap election if his support firms up once inoculation levels reach the 60 or 70% levels and new infection reports are consistently below 1000.
 By Staff
May 29th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The Forestry department will be overseeing the application of the second and final application of a bio-pesticide on Tuesday, June 1 and Wednesday, June 2
 Public risk is very very limited. Low-flying helicopters will be used to apply the pesticide over four wooded areas to control gypsy moth (lymantria dispar dispar, LDD) populations.
Gypsy moth caterpillars eat the leaves of trees, causing significant defoliation and potential long-term impact to the City’s urban forest.
The first application was successfully completed on May 25.
The final application of the pesticide will be completed between 5 and 9 a.m. and is expected to take 5-10 minutes for each park.
The areas identified for spraying include:
• City View Park
• Kilbride Park
• LaSalle Park
• Zimmerman Park
City staff will be temporarily preventing vehicles from using roads nearest the spray areas as the helicopter passes. The stoppage will take less than 15 minutes.
An interactive map is available on burlington.ca/gypsymoth that allows residents to enter an address so they can see where the address is in relation to the spray areas.
By Staff
May 28th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
A statement, jointly released by Lisa Kearns, Councillor for ward 2 and a candidate for the Burlington Provincial Liberal Association and Andrea Grebenc, Chair of the Halton District School Board and also a candidate for the Liberal nomination, said:
Burlington is the best place to live, raise a family, start a business or age in place. Ontario’s general election is just over a year away. It will be an election focused on fighting to strengthen public health care, deliver quality education, grow our economy, and protect our environment for generations to come.
Burlington needs an exceptionally strong candidate to go on the ballot for the June 2022 provincial election. There were two elected officials for the Ontario Liberal nomination: Lisa Kearns, City and Regional Councillor Ward 2 and Andrea Grebenc, Halton District School Board Chair and Trustee for Wards 3 & 6.
 Ward 2 city councilor Lisa Kearns announces decision to withdraw from seeking the Liberal nomination. Lisa Kearns has withdrawn her nomination after due consideration and will seek municipal re-election. She states, “when Ms Grenbenc put forth her interest in running I was happy that there was another candidate that I felt that was a good strong choice for this position, which would allow me to stay in my role as Ward 2 Councillor and continue my passionate work for the ward that I work and live in. There is still so much work to be done here, especially on matters of planning and development. All the recent advancements we have achieved could become undone without the continued watch of a seasoned councillor who is up to date and understands planning matters. I am happy to work alongside Ms Grebenc and give her my support in solidly positioning Burlington for community supported growth, not over-development.”
As a life-long Burlington resident, Ms Grebenc has successfully competed in two municipal elections for Halton District School Board Trustee and runs an IT consultation business. The second-largest area of provincial oversight is education.
By the time the provincial election is called she will have been working directly for that sector – approving budgets, advocating, and setting policy for nearly 8 years.
Burlington is fortunate to have nomination candidates truly focused on serving constituents so we can make a better tomorrow for Burlington residents and the citizens of Ontario.
Andrea Grebenc, Chair of the Halton District School Board chairing a meeting virtually. Grebenc, speaking about Kearns said: “Lisa’s work as a councillor both at the city and regional level is impactful and shows a deep concern for the future of the City of Burlington. The conversations I’ve had with Lisa surrounding municipal issues where she has advocated for critical changes at the provincial level include the Land Planning Appeal Tribunal (LPAT) and policies that prioritize the health & well-being of our families and loved ones.
“These are issues I am happy to carry forward into the candidacy and ultimately to Queens Park as MPP for Burlington.” .
Kearns who didn’t know Grebenc previously said: “Andrea’s proven leadership and tenacity for advancing provincial matters are widely recognized. Her elected and professional roles demonstrate a keen interest in community well-being and navigating complex issues with political acuity. She will be a strong champion for Burlington’s values as we seek greater autonomy at the provincial level.”
By Pepper Parr
May 28th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
 Lisa Kearns currently the Councillor for ward 2 Unconfirmed report that Lisa Kearns has withdrawn as a candidate for nomination as the Liberal candidate for the Burlington Provincial Liberal Association.
Appears to have gotten a little skittish.
We will follow up on this later in the day.
By Eric Vandewall
May 28th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Last week, the Government of Ontario unveiled a three-stage reopening plan that relies on vaccination rates, critical care occupancy, and other criteria to allow the gradual easing of current restrictions as well as the re[1]opening of businesses and activities. This news follows a very encouraging decline in acute care hospitalizations cases and decline in the number of daily new COVID 19 cases.
At JBH, we are starting to see some relief from the intense pressure on our critical care beds, and are currently at 86% capacity. As of today, we are caring for 4 confirmed COVID-19 positive patients, with 1 confirmed case in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), along with 16 recovered patients who continue to require our care in the ICU and acute care units.
 Rendering of what the now completed hospital was to look like in its immediate neighbourhood. While we are seeing positive signs that we nearing an end to the third wave of this pandemic, we are still some time away from being able to say we are in the post-pandemic recovery phase. We must remain vigilant and continue to be patient – we will get there, it will take time.
Last week, the province lifted the restrictions in place since April that paused scheduled and non-urgent procedures to help manage the sharp increase in the number of COVID-19 patients across the province. This means that hospitals can begin resuming these services if they can do so while still maintaining COVID-19 care capacity.
 This was the day the citizens of the city tried really hard to make it into the Guinness Book of Records. It was a wet day and the number of people fell a little short of what was needed. It is however certainly a testament to what people will do for their hospital We know how important resuming this care is to our patients and their families. At JBH, we are starting to move in that direction and are working with our clinical teams and regional hospital partners to ramp up surgical care as quickly and as safely as possible. However, it is important that we continue to preserve critical care capacity for COVID-19 care, so this may take time to complete. If you are awaiting a surgery or other procedure, your doctor will contact you directly with more information.
This week, we reached a significant milestone in having administered over 25,000 vaccinations at our Halton Region Vaccination Clinic. It was a proud moment for our teams and a testament to the hard work of our staff, volunteers and partners in public health. Across Halton, over 300,000 people have now received either a first or second dose. We are very grateful to everyone in the community who has received the vaccine, booked an appointment, or are planning to do so once it is their turn.
It is important to remember that regardless of your vaccination status, public health experts recommend that we should continue to follow safety measures such as wearing masks in public, physical distancing, and regular hand washing.
I hope that you have found these community updates helpful in keeping you informed about our work at JBH.
Thank you so much for your ongoing support
 By Pepper Parr
May 28th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The back and forth debate over sending students back to school for the three weeks in June that are the balance of this school term seems to forge what everyone says they want – the best thing for the students.
 While due to retire in August, current Director of education for the Halton District School Board Stuart Miller could lead a drive to get students vaccinated before September. Students have been jerked around for the past 18 months.
The pandemic that we are now beginning to admit was something we should have been more aware of did throw a monkey wrench into the way we educated students.
Teachers went into shock when they were asked to teach their students by telephone, which is basically what virtual teaching is. There were no programs to help the teachers overcome the problems.
The equipment needed didn’t exist. The Halton District school Board has put more than “2000 pieces of hardware” into the hands of students.
Some teachers had difficulty adapting to teaching virtually.
The public doesn’t yet understand just how big a challenge students faced. The idea of thinking about teaching kindergarten virtually boggles the mind.
Significant damage has been done, much of it unavoidable.
But surely we don’t have to continue damaging these students.
We appear to be on our way out of the pandemic. Vaccinations are taking place and the Ontario government seems too to have learned to communicate with its citizens.
It looks, as well, that the federal government has vaccine supply lines that are holding.
Could we not now commit to having every student and every teacher vaccinated before school classes begin again in September?
There is an organization called CODE – Committee of Directors of Education. These men and women have clout – have them use that clout and work with the local Medical Officers of Health and get the job done.
It’s possible – what it appears to be missing is the will.
Find it – the students deserve to be back in the classrooms and the teachers have to be able to do what they do best.
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
May 28, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Five days a week the volunteers show up. And the donations arrive – sometimes with nothing in the way of notice.
 The first time they showed up there was just the three of them. Next time they arrived there were four of them. That’s what makes the Food Bank the community success it is. The Food Bank is very thankful for donations of any kind however please make sure that any food donations are dropped off during normal business hours which are
Monday – Friday: 9:00 am – 11:45 am
Thursday evenings 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Closed Saturday and Sunday
Donations can also be dropped off at any local fire hall and/or local grocery store – our drivers make sure to pick up regularly.
With warmer weather approaching they don’t want any donation to go to waste or get damaged, as might be the case in wet weather.
They want to do their best to ensure donations remain safe. People needing food support need to know that anything we send them is in date, well protected and healthy/fresh as can be. Thanks everyone!
If you are in need or know of someone who could use their help, PLEASE have them email info@burlingtonfoodbank.ca or call 905-637-2273 to make arrangements to have food dropped at their door or make arrangements to pick it up through the curb-side pickup option. “If you are a resident in Burlington, we are all here to help. Don’t struggle – give us a call.”
 By Staff
May 27th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Real Estate agent sends in a news tip along with a photo of a house he sold for $420,000 over asking.
 Agent reports that the property sold for $420,000 over asking. That’s not really news in Burlington. What is going to be news is the impact these sky high property prices are going to do to the makeup of the city in the long-term.
Great for the people who sold. The people who bought might feel that they got in before prices got even higher.
Real estate prices can’t keep rising at this rate. It is no longer a stable market and at some point someone will intervene: Federal government; CMHC, or the banks, and when the contraction takes place it will be painful.
Everyone will be hurt.
By Pepper Parr
May 27th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
 Another one!
Andrea Grebenc, the Chair of the Halton District School announced today that she too will seek the provincial Liberal nomination.
Lisa Kearns, ward 2 city councillor, Miriam Manaa and now Grebenc are in the race
More on Grebenc later this week.
By Pepper Parr
May 27th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Yesterday’s news.
 This was yesterday. Today’s feature photograph.
 This was today. Much nicer. The observant resident and Gazette reader who brought the messy grass situation in Village Square to our attention added this morning that: “That did the trick.”
Local news works.
The bureaucrats don’t like it.
The vested interests don’t like it and sue to get their way.
Poorly tended property is small potatoes – but small potatoes grow into big potatoes. Local news does work – believe in it and support it.
 The Gazette is a member of the National Newsmedia Council. An organization that stands for responsible journalism and responsible readership.
Related new stories:
Mayor forgets to support local news
Air Park settle after years of litigation
 By Staff
May 27th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
June is the Month of Play – Get Outside and Play.
That is the message coming out of city hall.
Heard in households across the city are the words: “ Can we go outside and play”
The terribly mixed messages coming from the province are being ignored. In Burlington most of the rules are being followed – some more responsibly than others.
Vaccination rates are climbing creating the sense that we are almost out of this aren’t we?
To kick off June, Mayor Meed Ward has proclaimed June as the Month of Play and the City of Burlington is encouraging residents to get outside, play, have fun, stay safe and be active with a variety of options.
 First piece of summer cake at LaSalle Park Straight from the desk of the Mayor: “June is the time of year where the City’s parks, trails, outdoor pools, splash pads and events come to life. Being active is a powerful way for residents to maintain or improve mental and physical health. As we celebrate June as the Month of Play, we encouraged residents to get active indoors or outdoors and enjoy options the City offers, safely.”
Get Outside and Play Challenge
The Get Outside and Play Challenge begins on June 1 and continues until June 30. The Challenge is a fun way to learn more about Burlington while completing the activities.
• Download the app from burlington.ca/playoutside
• Search for the Get Outside and Play Challenge (Game code ZDB8GE)
• Create login as a family or a group
Let’s Fly a Kite – Presented by the Rocca Sisters Team
Let’s fly a kite on Father’s Day, June 20.
Together, let’s celebrate play and fill the sky with colour starting Father’s Day, June 20. This June, the City will be offering a limited supply of FREE Kite Kits to Burlington residents. Registration is required and will open on June 7, 2021. Learn more at burlington.ca/kitefestival.
 Picnics – with the weather we are having – great idea. Recreation and Parks Month
June is also Recreation and Parks Month, so Parks and Recreation Ontario has provided a list of fun activities for everyone.
Splash Pads and City Outdoor Pools
The City has 9 splash pads, including a new splash pad location, Brant Hills Park Splash Pad 2300 Duncaster Dr. All splash pads are now open. For a list of locations, visit burlington.ca/outdoorplay.
LaSalle Splash Park and the outdoor pools, Mountainside Outdoor Pool and Splash Park and Nelson Pool and Splash Park are expected to open June 14, also pending Provincial regulations and public health restrictions.
Learn more at burlington.ca/waterplay.
Tim Hortons Free Summer Swimming
 There are always swimming pools. Check out the available programs and register for a spot. Tim Hortons Free Swims will be offered from June 19 to Sept. 5, 2021, pending Provincial regulations and public health restrictions. Registration will be required. Learn more at Burlington.ca/timsfreeswims.
Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture might be beginning to think that he is close to being able to operate a normal recreation program and comes close to bursting when he says: “June is the month of play is a big kick-off to the summer. Everyone is eager to get outside and play, to explore our city and we’ve got so many great opportunities for families, individuals and people of all abilities.”
Links and Resources
burlington.ca/timsfreeswims
burlington.ca/waterplay
burlington.ca/playoutside
burlington.ca/kitefestival
By Pepper Parr
May 27th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The “other” candidate for the provincial Liberal nomination is now known.
 Mariam Manaa: seeking the Liberal nomination for the Burlington seat in the Provincial legislature. She is Mariam Manaa, running for the Ontario Liberal Party nomination to be the candidate in Burlington for the 2022 election under the leadership of Steven Del Duca.
According to her web site she is a “a long time Burlington resident and an active member of the community. In the past years, I have been working for MP Karina Gould in her constituency office. I have experience in policy advisory and stakeholder relations. I have also worked in Ottawa for MP Pam Damoff as a Parliamentary Intern in 2017. I am an active member of the Liberal Party.
“I currently serve as a board member for the Lions McInnes House for the Blind and Deaf and just completed a term on the board of the Halton Mosque. Community service has always been a priority for me.
“I finished my diploma in Urban Regional Planning and am currently continuing my studies. I am passionate about making our communities more livable.
I want to be a voice for all Burlington residents, especially minorities.
As a young woman, I hope to bring a positive perspective to the Ontario legislature and be a role model to young people on civic engagement.”
We hope to follow up what Mariam tells us about herself on her web site with an interview in the near future.
In the short comment she makes on a You Tube posting she comes across as a well spoken young woman who is focused and tied into the community.
By Pepper Parr
May 26th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
He was a quiet, intense man. He didn’t roar but when he began to speak – you listened.
When an issue caught his attention he was quick to react – and just didn’t know how to give up.
 Monte Campbell Dennis 1941-2021 I don’t remember when I first met him, probably at a meeting in his Walkers Line home. I could never remember the address but always recognized the railway marker at the bottom of his driveway.
He was one of three who were named in a libel suit Vince Rossi served us with. Rossi was the owner of the Burlington Executive Air Park, where he dumped tonnes of landfill on the property that Monte could see from his house. The rural community took exception to what they believed was an illegal site alteration with fill that was polluted.
They Gazette broke the story and reported at length on the many community meetings and the several court cases. When the city lost an appeal they decided to throw in the towel. Rossi didn’t withdraw the libel claims – at least not right away. Several years later in a Brampton Court House meeting room, with a supernumerary judge urging the parties to find a solution. An “arrangement” was put forward by Rossi’s legal counsel that had almost everyone walk out of the court house happy with the solution.
The solution included a gag order that we were not supposed to talk about. No one got costs and there were no financial damage awards . It was over and that was what Monte wanted. His health was failing and he wanted it brought to an end.
Monte left Burlington in 2018; moved to Amherstview to be closer to family. His health no longer allowed him to drive his motorcycle but it didn’t stop him from getting involved with his new community. .
It didn’t take him long to become a member of the local railroad hobby club where he gave a presentation. Railway paraphernalia could be found in every room of the house.
 Monte Dennis on the far right – at a city council meeting when the Air Park was on the agenda. Ian Blue Counsel for the city is at the far left. The city manager is briefing the delegation. Monte tinkered. An engineer by profession there was also a lot of the draftsman in him. He would get an idea and then create a plan that included a full set of drawings to ensure that it would work. It usually did but not everyone saw it the way he did.
The lower level of his home was a fully equipped workshop. You could find him bent over a lathe or cutting a length of hard wood against the grain if that is what was needed.
Monte was the kind of guy who just naturally went against the grain. He used a Dean Alfange quote to define himself. ““I do not choose to be a common man. It is my right to be uncommon…if I can.” He could and he was.
He once had an idea that he was certain would solve some of the Brant street traffic problems in Burlington. He built a model and convinced Rick Goldring to come out to his house to look at. Goldring was polite by nature – but the idea didn’t leave the house with the former Mayor.
The battle over the Air Park expansion in Burlington was not Monte’s first run in with people who wanted to convert good farm land into air strips.
The attempt to build an airport in Pickering resulted in the expropriation of hundreds of homes that are nothing more than farm land today. The homes that were there are gone. One of those was home to Monte and his family.
Monte Campbell DENNIS passed away on Thursday, April 22, 2021 in Kingston: he was 80 years young. He spent his last evening with his son and daughter-in-law.
Formerly of many great places across southern Ontario including Burlington (Mount Nemo), Waterloo Region, and Queensborough. He also spent some time in Minnesota, New York State, and Alabama.
Monte was a Queen’s Scout; you would have guessed that if you had met him. He surrounded himself with passionate people and loved to host parties with lots of good food, and laughter. He seemed to come up with a solution to any problem that involved fixing something.
When he was getting ready to move he donated all kinds of railroad stuff to the Freeman Station.
A proud Alumni of the University of Waterloo (1967) and Professional Engineer, Monte worked for IBM in the early part of his career in research and development, including the Apollo missions. He retired from teaching Technology at Conestoga College where he encouraged and challenged many students.
Monte felt honored to volunteer for two sessions in Ghana, Africa teaching locals the skills they needed to repair and maintain medical equipment.
Monte took every chance he could get to tour any kind of facility, manufacturing plant, natural wonder, or historic site, to see how things worked and the people or reason behind it.
Monte was the go-to person for anything technical and instilled confidence in his kids that we can build or repair anything, and that hard work is actually fun. They, along with many others, will remember him for his garden railway, and the stone horses in the yard. Monte always had multiple interesting projects on the go and shared his progress and talents everyone.
When there was a serious matter, one of a personal nature, Monte would reach out to the impressive bar he had and pull out a bottle of Scotch, two glasses and invite you out to the gazebo for a conversation.
 Completing the book was one of the last things Monte did. He was proud of that cover. Monte had an unusual obsession for sauerkraut. This involved a family business fermenting sauerkraut in St. Jacobs and Milverton plus the annual sauerkraut making parties in Burlington, and years of subjecting family and friends to strange and unusual concoctions made with kraut! With help from family in his final months he was able to finally publish an all-inclusive sauerkraut cookbook.
 He had an eye for an opportunity. People across the province bought his product. There are deli’s across the province that carried Monte’s sauerkraut. There is an event in Picton in August that will feature the official launch of his book. Jean, his partner, will send you one if you are interested.
Monte had a sense of humor about the realities of life; the latest political shenanigans were something he would go on about at some length.
 Monte Dennis delegating before Burlington city council. He believed in individual accountability and was quick to hold elected officials to account, using the power of community to make a difference. He advocated for responsible land use throughout his life. He was never afraid to stand up or speak out. Monte never stopped caring and lending his voice or expertise to do what he felt was right.
He made a contribution, he made a difference; he will be missed but not forgotten.
Monte is survived by his partner Jean Stuart; his children Scott (wife Melanie); Kara (husband Dean); brother Edward (wife Judy); grandchildren Brooke (husband Nick), Ila and Emerson; great-grandchildren Charlie and Thatcher; and a host of blended family, and friends.
Predeceased by his second wife Lillian Ruminsky (2004) and brother Robert Dennis (2014).
By Staff
May 26th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Ah – those ever observant Gazette readers.
One was walking through Village Square, was less than impressed with the upkeep.
Grass needs tending.
The ward Councillor doesn’t appear to be doing her regular walk abouts.
 Patchy bit of grass – does it not get watered? With one of the best watering holes across the street – The Poacher might be able to help out. Hmm – they’re closed aren’t they?  This grass did get watered – But it didn’t get a trim
By Staff
May 26th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Halton District School Board Secondary students area invited to participate in focus groups to gather insight into HDSB’s response to racism.
The Halton District School Board will be conducting virtual focus groups with secondary students (Grade 9-12) during the month of June to gather student insight into the Board’s current response to racism in schools.
 Thousands of students marched to city hall and took part in a peaceful demonstration in June of 2020
Gathering this information supports the Board’s ongoing accountability to its equity goals, as outlined in the 2020-2024 Multi-Year Plan and the Human Rights Equity Action & Accountability Plan: The Way Forward. The focus groups will be hosted virtually across each of the four municipalities in Halton.
Halton students have been active participants in the movement to remove racism from the community. While the Black Lives Matter march on Burlington city hall was very successful – there have nevertheless been racial incidents that the larger community will not tolerate.
 Curtis Ennis, newly appointed Director of Education for the Halton District School Board The newly appointed Director of Education for the Halton District School Board is a man of colour with a strong record of working with communities to end racism. Curtis Ennis will join the Board soon and be in place for the start of the new school year in September. He leaves the Toronto District School Board as the interim Associate Director, Equity, Well-Being and School Improvement.
Interested secondary students must complete the ‘Student Insight Conversations on HDSB’s Response to Racism’ Registration Form by Monday, May 31 at 4 p.m. Participation is voluntary. Registration form is HERE
“As a Board we are invested in learning more about how well students feel we have responded to incidents of racism in our schools,” says Rob Eatough, Superintendent of Education with responsibility for Equity. “The information and insights received will be reviewed over the summer and a report will be developed with recommendations to guide and inform a plan of action and enhanced accountability beginning in the fall.”
The virtual focus groups will take place between 1 – 3 p.m. or 4 – 6 p.m. on the following dates:
• Oakville: Wednesday, June 2
• Halton Hills: Monday, June 7
• Milton: Wednesday, June 9
• Burlington: Thursday, June 10
The focus groups will be facilitated by HDSB staff in the Equity and Research departments.
By Staff
May 25th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
With the beginning of a return to normality the Parks and Recreation Department has announced that the summer recreation program online registration opens May 29.
 A focus on building confidence in the water. The City of Burlington’s summer outdoor and virtual recreation programs for adults 19+ and adults 55+ will be open for online registration beginning May 29, 2021 at 9 a.m. Aquatic programs will open for online registration May 29, 2021 at 11 a.m. All programming is subject to provincial and public health restrictions.
Indoor programs for adults and swimming lessons will be offered once indoor recreation facilities are permitted to open in Stage 3 of Ontario’s Roadmap to Reopening.
For information on the programs, visit burlington.ca/recreation.
Adult 19+ and 55+
Two four-week session will run this summer from June 28 to July 23 and July 26 to Aug. 20. Programs will be one or two-hours in length. Additional workshops, socials and outdoor activities will be offered periodically between June 28 and Aug. 27.
Registration is required and will begin on May 29.
Programs include learning and discussion series, bridge lessons and play, group music lessons and jam sessions, arts, languages, fitness and wellness programs, and workshops and socials include Pickleball equipment demonstrations, lunch and listen socials in the park, and moving meditation workshops.
Swimming
Mini swim lessons will be offered starting June 14 at Mountainside and Nelson Outdoor Pool. Classes will be practicing physical distancing with a focus on drowning prevention and building confidence in the water.
Indoor lessons will be offered at Angela Coughlan, Tansley Woods and Aldershot Pools later this summer, when indoor recreation facilities are permitted open in Stage 3 of Ontario’s Roadmap to Reopening Plan.
Leadership Programs
In-person aquatic leadership courses will be offered at our outdoor pools beginning June 14 for National Lifeguard recertification, Airway Management and Standard First Aid recertification.
Register for Leadership programs at burlington.ca/swimming.
All programs are subject to change based on the latest Provincial public health measures, advice and restrictions for Burlington as we continue to respond to the pandemic.
Drop-in programs, including fitness, wellness, recreational, swimming, Tim Hortons free swims and lap swims, will be returning in June as well. Visit burlington.ca/dropinandplay.
Bistro Express Curbside Pickup
Order a delicious and nutritious home-style meal. Made fresh then frozen for convenient reheating at home. Open Monday to Friday for call-in ordering and curbside pickup at the Burlington Seniors’ Centre, 2285 New St.
Menu options, prices and detailed ordering instructions can be viewed online by visiting, burlington.ca/adult and clicking on “Bistro Express Curbside Pickup” or by calling 905-335-7888, ext. 6346.
TelePALS Call-in Programs
TelePALS is a free, over-the-phone discussion, social and learning program for all adults.
View the TelePALS schedule at burlington.ca/telepals.
Recreation Fee Assistance
Recreation Fee Assistance is funding made available to individuals or families who need help to pay for City of Burlington recreational programs.
 Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture For more information or to apply, visit burlington.ca/feeassistance. For more information, call 905-335-7600, ext. 8501 to leave a voice mail.
Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture has had to run a department and programs that changed, daily at times. They would pivot only to find that the provincial rules changed and they had to pivot again. Glenn comments: “Our staff have worked hard to prepare a fun, exciting and safe set of summer and aquatic programs for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy. View the programs online and register early. We are looking forward to welcoming everyone back to our programs.”
By Staff
May 25th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Have you ever wondered how organizations manage to get corporate sponsorship for their events?
Festivals Ontario is holding a virtual event that will feature Judy Haber, a woman considered best in class in the Sponsorship industry. Judy has been selling Corporate Sponsorship and Naming Rights for the past 25 years.
 Judy was instrumental in packaging and selling events that included The Shoppers Drug Mart Toronto Marathon, The Bay Street Rat Race, and over the last 10 years has spearheaded the B&O Yorkville Run for Charities. Since inception, the B&O Yorkville Run for Charities has raised millions of dollars for local not for profit groups, with sponsorship support from companies that included New Balance, Lexus, Equinox, Camrost Felcorp, Hill Street Beverages, Whole Foods, and other like brands.
The events have consistently covered their operating expense with Corporate Sponsorship.
Join Judy on Thursday, May 27 at 1:00pm for an hour of insight on the current landscape of Sponsors, how to package and sell community events, and answers to your specific question.
 Send these to debbie@festivalsandeventsontario.ca by tomorrow (Wednesday) at 12 noon.
Click on the link below to register for free, reserve your space, and get the ZOOM link.
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