By Staff
May 22nd, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The Province has announced that outdoor recreational amenities can reopen as long as COVID measures are in place, beginning Saturday, May 22 at 12:01 a.m.
Now the city has to figure out which Parks and Recreation department programs can be made operational – again. This is perhaps the fourth pivot that department has had to make.
You can kick the soccer ball around but can’t actually play a game – yet.
The things you will be able to do starting today include, but are not limited to, golf courses and driving ranges, soccer and other sports fields, tennis and basketball courts, and skate parks.
Outdoor limits for social gatherings and organized public events will be expanded to five people, which will allow these amenities to be used for up to five people, including with members of different households. All other public health and workplace safety measures under the province wide emergency brake remain in effect.
Changes to City services and programs: Recreation Services, Parks, Amenities and Facilities
Outdoor Courts
Outdoor courts such as pickleball, basketball and tennis courts will be open Saturday, May 22. If there are people waiting to use the court, please keep your time to a maximum of 30-minutes. Masks are to be worn while waiting for your turn. For locations of outdoor courts, visit burlington.ca/outdoorplay.
Sport Fields
Grass sport fields will open for casual use such as throwing a ball, self-directed yoga, kicking a ball or flying a kite. Organized sports and recreational classes are not permitted. Groups of up to five people are allowed. Please make sure you stay 6 feet from anyone not in your household.
The skate boarders will be out in droves this weekend.
Skate Parks
Skate parks will be open on Saturday, May 22. Please make sure you stay 6 feet from anyone not in your household. Wearing a mask is highly recommended.
City Park Washrooms
Most City park washrooms will be open to the public from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
LaSalle Community Park Marina
In partnership with the LaSalle Community Park Marina Association, the public boat launch is not ready to open yet and will remain closed until further notice. It will reopen once boats have been cleared from the lower parking lot.
Open – but try getting a T time
Tyandaga Golf Course
Tyandaga Golf Course will open for play on Saturday, May 22 at 7 a.m. Book online at tyandagagolf.com or call 905-336-0006 between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. starting today.
For a list of the Pickle Ball court locations CLICK HERE
Roads, Parks and Forestry
Services provided by the Roads, Parks and Forestry Department will continue as needed. Residents with questions or concerns can email RPF@burlington.ca or call 905-333-6166.
As the province wide vaccination rate and key public health and health care indicators improve, and City staff receives and reviews updated orders from the Province of Ontario and more details under its Roadmap to Reopen, the Parks people will continue to comply and keep you informed on available City services and what can open while keeping City of Burlington staff and residents safe.
The Mayor wants to see everyone out and about – but following the guidelines.
Mayor Marianne Meed Ward adds: “This is welcome news and something my fellow Mayors from all across Ontario have been advocating for throughout this present lockdown. We know healthcare and science experts have repeatedly stated that the risk of transmission of COVID-19 in these activities is low, and the mental and physical benefits are high.
“With warmer weather upon us, I know Burlington residents will be thrilled with this announcement. I encourage our amazing community to enjoy these activities safely, as intended, with thoughtfulness and care so that we do not risk undoing the great progress we have made in the past month in both reducing new cases and steadily increasing vaccinations. Please avoid crowding over five people at a time, and be patient to wait your turn when other groups are using amenities. When using outdoor amenities, please also be courteous and thoughtful to those who are waiting so everyone can have a turn.”
By Ray Rivers
May 22nd, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
Doug Ford is right about one thing. Ontario residents will only stop getting sick and dying after we’ve all had our shots. That is because he has been unable and/or unwilling to control the transmission of the virus.
It’s been over a month since he applied his famous emergency brake. And despite the so-called shut down we’re still hitting a couple thousand cases and a couple dozen deaths a day. Yet the reason why it’s taking so long is obvious.
Ontario had elected a populist – when the pandemic hit he was expected to lead – many were disappointed.
He shut down the wrong part of Ontario’s economy. Almost 70 percent of COVID transmission in hot spot Toronto, for example, has been taking place in the workplace among factory and warehouse workers and the construction trades.
Had Ford made these folks stay at home we might have seen real and rapid reductions in the numbers. Killing the provincial sick pay plan just made it worse. According to a Peel region study 25% of the industrial workforce had been showing up at work with COVID symptoms.
Ford promised to be brutal at his disastrous April media conference, and he was. But he brutalized the wrong folks. Shutting down outdoor recreational activities, including golf and tennis, which had never reported a case of COVID, was just mean… and stupid.
Leading the province through a pandemic proved to be more than the Premier and his Cabinet could handle.
But if Ford really wanted to bring the numbers down he should have focused on the sectors where transmission is high. Instead, it was all a smokescreen. He declared residential construction an essential service. How could building a new subdivision in a time of COVID be considered essential?
Mr. Ford’s legislative record makes it clear that he has used the pandemic as a cover to fast track development in the province. His government passed a number of COVID recovery laws last year. And they were more about development than anything else. He has enacted his autocratic Minster’s Zoning Orders, ignoring and bypassing local councils and their voters’ wishes on development.
Ford has unearthed a plan to build a new 400 series highway (413) on property held by a group of developers, who collectively have contributed close to a million dollars to Ford’s party since 2014. They own 39 properties along the proposed route covering 3,300 acres, which is worth about half a billion dollars in today’s market. But their windfall profit is expected to inflate wildly from adjacent sprawl development once the highway is approved.
Scientists were providing solid data – the Premier seemed to use what worked for his agenda.
He has stripped conservation authorities of their role in the approval of new developments that can affect them and all of us. In protest, former Toronto Mayor and Mulroney cabinet minister David Crombie, has resigned as chair of the Greenbelt. And in an insult to everyone who cares about the environment, Ford replaced him with former Harris environment minister Norm Sterling, of Walkerton crisis fame, who actually voted against establishing the Greenbelt.
The speed with which this government is undoing decades of environmental protection in the province is stunning. One has to ask whether Ford is packing in as much development as he can before the next election. And that, apparently, takes priority over controlling COVID.
It was always about business – the closer they could get to the Premier the better it was for the development community. And they certainly did manage to get very close.
But as the numbers surged this past March, and infected people overwhelmed Ontario’s hospitals, Ford needed to appear to be doing something – to be taking charge. So he scapegoated the federal government and played the rest of us.
His stay at home order was brutal and tough, especially on children and their parents. But it has had little effect on COVID transmission. The numbers are falling because we are getting vaccinated. The stay at home order was mainly just for show.
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:
Friends with Benefits – Sick Pay – Under Cover –
Emergency Order – Construction COVID – Small Gatherings –
MZO – Crombie Resigns –
By Staff
May 21st, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
On Tuesday, May 25, the City of Burlington will be using a low-flying helicopter to apply a bio-pesticide over four wooded areas to control gypsy moth populations. The gypsy moths eat the leaves of trees, causing significant defoliation and potential long-term impact to the City’s urban forest.
This moth will eat your tree bare
Application of the pesticide will be completed between 5 and 7:30 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 stopping traffic on roads nearest the park while the helicopter is spraying. The road closure will take 15 minutes or less.
The aerial spraying is being done as safely as possible.
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.
The second spray date will be posted on the City’s Twitter and Facebook accounts @CityBurlington and online at burlington.ca/gypsymoth at least 48-hours before the spraying.
Steve Robinson Forestry Manager
Steve Robinson, Manager of Urban Forestry explains: “The weather forecast shows good conditions for the aerial spraying and the gypsy moth larva are at the right stage in their development for the treatment to have maximum impact on them. A successful reduction in their number will help protect the health of our trees and the environment which is a win for everyone.”
By Staff
May 21st, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Yesterday, the Honourable Karina Gould, Member of Parliament for Burlington, the Honourable Anita Anand, Member of Parliament for Oakville, Pam Damoff, Member of Parliament for Oakville North-Burlington, and Adam van Koeverden, Member of Parliament for Milton were joined by community advocates and local service providers to discuss support for people living with disabilities in Halton.
The objective is to ensure that people with mobility limitations are able to take part in all community activities.
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the long-standing barriers Canadians with disabilities have faced for decades. Since the start of the pandemic, many have faced higher costs in accessing food, medication, social services or health care.
As Members of Parliament in Halton, we remain committed to advancing policies that build inclusivity from the beginning and will continue to work to reflect the principle of ‘Nothing About Us, Without Us’ when it comes to creating a society that is inclusive by design and promotes belonging for everyone.
Important stakeholders including Community Living Burlington and Community Living Oakville, Charter Ability, the Burlington Accessibility Advisory Committee, Stroke Recovery, Meals on Wheels, Special Olympics, and Goodwill Amity came together to share their thoughts on how we can continue to push for more inclusive spaces in our communities.
One of the overwhelming pieces of feedback was that we as a society need to engage in an attitudinal change. Inclusiveness for those living with a disability should be built into planning and policy procedures from the very beginning to ensure that all of us are included.
Our community spaces need to be inclusive and accessible. While we have made progress in this space, there is more work to be done to ensure that everyone can access and utilize spaces that many of us take for granted, such as public washroom facilities.
We also need to work harder to ensure that housing is not only affordable but accessible and that job opportunities are available and accommodating to all interested applicants.
We will also continue to work to foster inclusion and belonging in the workforce for people living with disabilities, recognizing the unique skills and talents they bring to employment.
In Budget 2021, the Government of Canada has made significant proposals to support people living with disabilities and ensure our communities are more accessible, including:
• Undertaking consultations to reform the eligibility process for federal disability programs and benefits. This work would feed directly into the design of a new disability benefit;
• Triple funding for the Enabling Accessibility Fund and support small and mid-sized projects with not-for-profit organizations, women’s shelters, child care centres, small municipalities, Indigenous organizations, territorial governments, small businesses, and businesses of all sizes;
• Improving access to the Disability Tax Credit;
• Extending disability supports under the Canada Student Loans Program;
• Providing $29.2 million over two years, starting in 2021-22, to ESDC through the Enabling Accessibility Fund to support child care centres as they improve their physical accessibility;
• Support the creation of a National Autism Strategy and;
• Renewing Funding for the Office of Public Service Accessibility.
By Pepper Parr
May 20th 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Every woman experiences menopause differently but the onset of menopause can mean a variety of symptoms (hot flashes, insomnia, mood swings etc.) and a marked increase in certain health risks. While there are women that immediately seek treatment, menopause symptoms are just as often left untreated due to misconceptions about the treatment options available. As a result, 70% suffer in silence or miss the window for seeking treatment options that can actually make life more comfortable.
There are healthcare providers available known as Menopause Practitioners, that are dedicated to promoting the health and quality of life of women through an understanding of menopause. These specialists see patients to help them assess and determine treatment protocols, and they may be more accessible in your community than you think!
Kerry Roberts & Carolyn Whiskin, Certified Menopause Practitioners at Brant Arts IDA have helped hundreds of women through their transitional years and now they are heading online to empower more women in their quest towards a healthier postmenopausal life.
Brant Arts IDA Pharmacy is home to two experts in women’s health: both are Certified Menopause Practitioners.
Kerry Roberts and Carolyn Whiskin. Together, Roberts & Whiskin have been referred by many doctors and met with hundreds of patients to help them through their transitional years. Their expertise includes a vast knowledge of women’s health concerns such as: sleep disturbances, hot flashes, low libido, mood swings, irregular menstruation and more.
These two energetic experts are offering a free online education session entitled: “Menopause Symptoms… Do I REALLY Have To Live With Them?” This session provides a casual and relaxed online environment for postmenopausal women to learn what should be expected with regards to menopause symptoms. “We’ll discuss the benefits and risks of many treatment options so women can feel in control about choosing the best treatment for them!” Roberts explains.
They will then evaluate the impact of the education they provide and this research will be used to help improve the future of women’s health. Roberts & Whiskin are looking for females that have experienced menopause symptoms but have yet to seek treatment to participate in their free upcoming education sessions. While their first few sessions filled up quickly, the next available date is June 8. Space is limited. Details can be found at: www.brantarts.ca/menopause
By Eric Vandewall
May 20th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Over the past few weeks, I have been sharing these regular updates with our community to keep you informed of what is happening at Joseph Brant Hospital and to seek your help to move out of this third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This week, I would like to say thank you. Thank you for following public health measures. Thank you for getting vaccinated. Thank you for continuing to show your support for our hardworking staff and physicians in your emails, phone calls, Join the J lawn signs, available at www.jointhej.ca, and social media posts. With your help, we are moving in a more positive direction.
We are starting to see the pressure on critical care bed capacity easing. Today the number of COVID-19 patients receiving critical care is 718: 494 of these patients are on a ventilator. Today, JBH is at 82% capacity. We are currently caring for 13 patients with confirmed COVID-19 as well as presumed and resolved cases – 11 of the confirmed COVID-19 patients are in Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
Yesterday it was announced that hospitals across the province can gradually resume surgeries and procedures as able, based on capacity and resources. Our teams are planning the resumption of scheduled care, ensuring the safety of our patients, staff, and physicians. If you were impacted by a deferral, your surgeon or physician will contact you with more information as soon as available.
While we are seeing a decrease in acute care cases, as well as daily new COVID-19 case numbers, it is important to put this information into perspective. The daily case numbers we are seeing now are equal to the number reported during the peak of the second wave. Ontario’s hospital occupancy rate is still very high and it will take time for this rate to decrease to acceptable levels.
The reality is we are still very much in this third wave. By following public health measures, the risk of transmission decreases, and so does the number of severely ill COVID-19 patients in our hospitals.
Vaccination is also a key ally in our fight to stop the spread of the virus. As of today, more than 260,000 Halton residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine offered through regional clinics, pharmacies and family physicians. I am proud to report that since March 12, the Halton Region COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic at Joseph Brant Hospital has administered over 22,000 doses. We have also started to increase the number of available appointments per day. In less than a week, we expect to reach 25,000 doses.
There is more good news – anyone age 18 and up is can now make an appointment to get vaccinated. This is a very positive development that will also help us out of this third wave safely and stronger than before. I encourage everyone who is eligible to make an appointment: either online at www.halton.ca/covidvaccine or call 311 if you need assistance.
Some of you may have questions or concerns about getting vaccinated. Please talk to your doctor or go to credible sources like Halton Region, the Ontario government and Health Canada for more information. During the recent Immunization Awareness Week, our own Dr. Dale Kalina answered a series of questions from our community related to vaccine. I invite you to watch these short video clips on our Instagram page.
Please continue to look after each other. Stay safe and thank you once again for your unwavering support of our hospital.
Eric Vandewall: President and CEO Joseph Brant Hospital
Eric Vandewall is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Joseph Brant Hospital. He was appointed in 2009 and took on the task of adding additional space and a completely new wing to the hospital.
By Staff
May 20th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The Ontario government has released its Roadmap to Reopen, a three-step plan to safely and cautiously reopen the province and gradually lift public health measures based on the province wide vaccination rate and improvements in key public health and health care indicators. In response to recent improvements to these indicators, Ontario will allow more outdoor recreational amenities to reopen, with restrictions in place, effective May 22, 2021 at 12:01 a.m.
Doug Ford: He is a happier man today. Thinks the Leafs are going to win tonight.
“As a result of the strict public health measures we introduced to stop the spread of COVID-19 variants, we are seeing a steady improvement in our situation as ICU and hospital numbers begin to stabilize,” said Premier Doug Ford. “While we must remain conscious of the continued threat the virus poses, with millions of Ontarians having received at least their first dose of vaccine we can now begin the process of a slow and cautious re-opening of the province in full consultation with our public health professionals.”
Roadmap to Reopen outlines three steps to easing public health measures, guided by the following principles:
• Step One – An initial focus on resuming outdoor activities with smaller crowds where the risk of transmission is lower, and permitting retail with restrictions. This includes allowing outdoor gatherings of up to 10 people, outdoor dining with up to four people per table and non-essential retail at 15 per cent capacity.
• Step Two- Further expanding outdoor activities and resuming limited indoor services with small numbers of people where face coverings are worn. This includes outdoor gatherings of up to 25 people, outdoor sports and leagues, personal care services where face coverings can be worn and with capacity limits, as well as indoor religious services, rites or ceremony gatherings at 15 per cent capacity.
• Step Three – Expanding access to indoor settings, with restrictions, including where there are larger numbers of people and where face coverings can’t always be worn. This includes indoor sports and recreational fitness; indoor dining, museums, art galleries and libraries, and casinos and bingo halls, with capacity limits.
The province will remain in each step for at least 21 days to evaluate any impacts on key public health and health system indicators. If, at the end of the 21 days, the following vaccination thresholds have been met, along with positive trends in other key public health and health system indicators, then the province will move to the next step:
• Step 1: 60 per cent of adults vaccinated with one dose.
• Step 2: 70 per cent of adults vaccinated with one dose and 20 per cent vaccinated with two doses.
• Step 3: 70 to 80 per cent of adults vaccinated with one dose and 25 per cent vaccinated with two doses.
Based on current trends in key health indicators, including the provincial vaccination rate, the government expects to enter Step One of the Roadmap the week of June 14, 2021. The province will confirm closer to the expected start of Step One.
“While we know that now is not yet the moment to reopen, Ontarians deserve to know the path forward on what we will carefully reopen and when, starting with the settings we know are safest,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “Brighter days are ahead and we believe this Roadmap represents a path out of the pandemic and will encourage Ontarians to get vaccinated and to continue following public health advice.”
The province-wide emergency brake restrictions remain in effect while the province assesses when it will be moving to Step One of the roadmap with the Stay at Home order expiring on June 2, 2021. During this time, the government will continue to work with stakeholders on reopening plans to ensure full awareness of when and how they can begin to safely reopen.
Due to the continuing success of Ontario’s vaccine rollout and the collective efforts of Ontarians in following public health and workplace safety measures to date, effective May 22, 2021 at 12:01 a.m. the province will reopen outdoor recreational amenities with restrictions in place, such as the need to maintain physical distancing.
These amenities include, but are not limited to, golf courses and driving ranges, soccer and other sports fields, tennis and basketball courts, and skate parks. No outdoor sports or recreational classes are permitted. Outdoor limits for social gatherings and organized public events will be expanded to five people, which will allow these amenities to be used for up to five people, including with members of different households. All other public health and workplace safety measures under the province wide emergency brake will remain in effect.
At this time, publicly funded and private elementary and secondary schools in the province will continue to operate under teacher-led remote learning. Data will be assessed on an ongoing basis and medical experts, including the Chief Medical Officer of Health, and other health officials will be consulted to determine if it may be safe to resume in-person learning.
“Due to the stringent efforts of Ontarians following public health and workplace safety measures, we have reached the point where we can begin preparing to exit the province-wide emergency brake and lift the Stay-at-Home order,” said Dr. David Williams, Chief Medical Officer of Health. “We must remain vigilant however, as the fight against COVID-19 is not over and our case counts, ICU capacity and hospitalizations are still concerning. It remains critical that all Ontarians continue to follow all public health and workplace safety measures currently in place to help further reduce transmission and save lives.”
The government will continue to work with the Public Health Measures Table, Public Health Ontario, and other public health and scientific experts to determine public health guidance for Ontarians to follow, including protocols for masking and outdoor/indoor gatherings, after being fully vaccinated.
Quick Facts
• Based on the latest modelling data COVID-19 case, positivity and hospitalization rates are decreasing, and control of the pandemic is improving. Maintaining the current rate of vaccination and public health and workplace safety measures will help to ensure Ontario starts to safely and gradually reopen.
• Ontario has administered first doses of the COVID-19 vaccines to over 58.5 per cent of Ontarians aged 18 and over. Over two million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in Ontario since the start of May, and the province remains on track to have administered first doses to 65 per cent of Ontarians aged 18 and over by the end of May.
• The government has extended the province wide Stay-at-Home Order until June 2, 2021, and has maintained all public health and workplace safety measures under the province wide emergency brake to help to stop the rapid transmission of COVID-19 variants in communities, protect hospital capacity and save lives.
• The Stay-at-Home order currently in effect requires everyone to remain at home except for specified purposes, such as going to the grocery store or pharmacy, accessing health care services (including getting vaccinated), for outdoor exercise, or for work that cannot be done remotely.
• If passed by the Legislature, powers under the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to COVID-19) Act, 2020 (ROA) will be extended to December 1, 2020 to ensure public health measures currently in place can be extended and adjusted as necessary, to deal with the impacts of COVID-19 and support a gradual re-opening of the province. There are currently 29 orders in effect under the ROA. Orders can be extended for up to 30 days at a time under the ROA, and the government must report on all order extensions to the Select Committee on Emergency Management Oversight.
• As of 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 18, 2021, individuals aged 18 and over in 2021 across Ontario are eligible to book a COVID-19 vaccine appointment through the provincial booking system and call centre, or directly through public health units that use their own booking system.
By Pepper Parr
May 20th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
There were two groups active in the Beachway yesterday; one of them will be busy today and Friday getting that part of the city ready for the thousands that are expected to want to spend time on the sandy shores of Lake Ontario.
New outdoor planking has been put in place around the Convenience Shack; public washrooms may not be ready for this weekend.
Contractors and maintenance people are beavering away to get washrooms set up, signs in place, and barriers where they are needed to keep people from putting their vehicles in the wrong places.
Mom, the boys and a girl with a pail – heading for the lake.
Then there are the Moms – those we saw were driving pickup trucks and trundling down to the Beachway with their children in tow and all the stuff you need to play in the sand and enjoy the sunshine.
Then there was the couple; two people who have known Burlington most of their lives, who have found a quiet spot where they could sit side by side and enjoy the blessings.
Listening to the silence and counting the blessings.
They were all their earlier this week; few of them will be there in the weekend.
By Staff
May 19th, 221
BURLINGTON, ON
Trustees of the Halton District School Board are pleased to announce the appointment of Curtis Ennis as the new Director of Education, Chief Executive Officer and Secretary to the Board, effective August 1, 2021.
Curtis Ennis, newly appointed Director of Education for the Halton District School Board
Ennis’ career portfolio during the past 22 years has included a variety of senior leadership positions with the Toronto District School Board, Canada’s largest school board, as well as the Ontario Ministry of Education. Ennis began his career as a primary teacher and advanced through various leadership roles as a Superintendent of Education with increasing responsibilities.
He is currently the Associate Director, Equity, Well-Being and School Improvement (Interim).
Ennis has led numerous strategic planning initiatives in the TDSB, as well as gaining leadership experience with the Ministry of Education’s Toronto and Area Regional Office. Ennis holds a Bachelor of Business Management (Accounting/Finance) and a Bachelor of Education and Master of Education (Language, Culture & Teaching) from York University.
Following the retirement announcement of the current Director of Education, Stuart Miller, trustees began a search process in early December 2020. With the help of Joan M. Green and Associates/Lough Barnes Consulting Group (LBCG), an extensive consultation took place. The search involved consultation with stakeholders in the education community including HDSB staff, local unions, trustees, students, community partners and beyond to develop the Halton-specific Director position profile.
“The Trustees of the Halton District School Board (HDSB) were impressed with, and grateful for, the strong show of interest and outstanding qualifications of the candidates who applied for the position of Director of Education,” says HDSB Chair Andréa Grebenc.
“We are excited to welcome Curtis Ennis as the HDSB’s incoming Director. Curtis brings a wealth of knowledge gained through senior leadership roles in the Ontario education sector. He has diverse experiences that will be invaluable in building strong relationships with students, staff, families and community members, as the HDSB continues its journey to fulfilling the goals outlined in the 2020-2024 Multi-Year Strategic Plan, and providing outstanding opportunities for every student.”
Ennis has a proven-track record of strategic planning and leadership with a focus on student achievement and well-being, equity and inclusion, communication and relationship building.
“I am truly honoured and excited to be joining the Halton District School Board as Director of Education, says Ennis. “I am grateful to the Trustees for their confidence in me and I look forward to leading and learning with the students, staff, families and community partners of Burlington, Halton Hills, Milton and Oakville in the years ahead. Leadership for me has always been about service and I am deeply committed to working with all staff and the Board to carry on the Halton tradition of excellence in education while being acutely mindful of those who have been historically under-served and have faced barriers to positive outcomes.
“Working collaboratively with students, staff, trustees and communities, I will be intentional and focused on ensuring the success and well-being of students of all identities in HDSB.”
By Staff
May 19th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Today marks the beginning of Canada Road Safety Week, a 7-day national campaign aimed at making Canada’s roads the safest in the world.
With what we have seen take place earlier this week in York, the importance of this message has never been more obvious. Our heart breaks for our neighbouring community.
Auto accident consequences include criminal charges, fines, suspensions, or vehicle impoundment.
This annual awareness campaign is designed to increase public compliance with safe driving measures in order to save lives and reduce injuries. The focus of this campaign continues to be on behaviours that put drivers, passengers, pedestrians and other vulnerable road users at risk: impaired driving, distracted driving, aggressive driving, and not wearing a seat belt.
Unsafe driving behaviors come with increased risk of injury or death. Other consequences include criminal charges, fines, suspensions, or vehicle impoundment.
There is no excuse to justify unsafe driving behaviour. It is simply #NotWorthTheRisk.
We want Halton residents and all Canadians to remember the decisions they make and the consequences of their actions impact everyone on or near our roadways.
The Halton Regional Police Service thanks those in our community who recognize that they share the roads with others.
Often takes months to recover accidents like this.
Whether you are a motorcyclist, a pedestrian, a driver, or a cyclist, remember… road safety starts with YOU.
The Halton Regional Police Service is proud to be participating in this year’s Canada Road Safety Campaign. While this public safety initiative is part of a national effort to help make Canada’s roads the safest in the world, we are confident that our local efforts will help make the roads here in Halton among the safest in Canada.
By Staff
May 19th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
It was the first day of operation this season for the Lions Farmers Market that set up in the south end of the Burlington Centre parking lot.
The weather was perfect; people strolled in, cleared the entrance where you are expected to squirt the disinfectant on your hands and begin looking at the produce.
And produce there was – the pictures tell that story.
The crowds weren’t great and there were a lot of empty places for the significant list of farm participants this market has had in the past.
It was week day – Saturday will tell the story.
There were plenty of Lions people on site welcoming as you came in and ready to answer any question.
You need a big bag when you leave this table – they had something of everything that comes out of the ground.
Lot of space for additional farmers – expect it to be busier on the weekend.
Squirt your hands at the entrance and enjoy what is being offered for sale.
Markets operate Wednesday, Friday and Saturday – well worth the time.
Hours of operation: Wednesdays 8:00 – 2:00 Fridays 8:00 – 3:00 Saturdays 8:00 – 2:00
By Pepper Parr
May 19th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
When Ward 1 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith was doing his virtual community meeting earlier this week he made mention of a change that had been made to the Station West development the ADI Group has underway. Word is that the town houses are basically sold out.
Part of the Station West complex. The residents are going to want to organize a community group to ensure that their interests are fully protected. Not something the ward councillor will do for them
Next phase will be the condominiums that will be built at the northwest corner of the development where Waterdown Road intersections with Masonry Road.
Sometime in April the ADI people asked the community where they would like the park to be and put up a graphic showing what they had in mind.
Many were stunned by what was being offered.
The small patch of land at the bottom of three high rise condos (in the 29 to 34 storey range) was the original park location.
According to Galbraith ADI has seen the error of their ways and decided to place a park to the north of the condo towers closer to the pond.
During a short tour of the property with camera in hand we photographed the pond and the piece of property the park would be located on. It could work – it is certainly better than what was offered back in April.
North of Masonry Road at the Waterdown intersection – three condo site.
What is understood to be the park space to the west of the town houses.
Storm water pond to the left and what is believed to be the new space for the park.
Waiting for some response from the ADI people.
By Pepper Parr
May 19th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Every once in a while ward 6 Councillor Angelo Bentivegna casts a vote intended to make a point.
Councillor Angelo Bentivegna: thinking it through.
This time he was asking what impact changing the business model for the Tyandaga Golf Club would have on the 2022 budget – and then reminded his colleagues that the projected tax rate for 2022 was 5.25%
Council was about to pass the item as part of a collection of issues that had been pulled together as a consent item, which is council’s way of voting on a number of decisions at the same time.
Any member of Council can ask to have an item pulled from the consent list so that it can be voted separately.
Bentivegna wanted more information on just what the change in the business model would have on the tax rate.
He was told that it would likely be between .07% or .08% – which would put the 5.25% projection over 6%
Staff did their best to assure Bentivegna that the public wouldn’t see any increase in 2022 and probably not in 2023 either. Any funds the golf course needed would be for capital items and would go on a list to be considered by the Capital expense people.
Ward 6 Councillor Angelo Bentivegna making a point at a council meeting.
Bentivegna’s point was that – yes it would be going on a list and at some point the public would be asked to pay.
When it came to a vote on the item Bentivegna asked that it be a recorded vote. He was going on the record and wanted his colleagues to do the same thing.
The vote was 6-1: Bentivegna had made his point with his “no” vote.
The public will at some point be asked to pay for capital items at the golf course. The fear in the minds of many is that the public might be asked to pay for some of the operating costs as well.
By Staff
May 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
If you are in need of food support, please call us or email before Thursday this week so that we can arrange for delivery on Friday. If you need your delivery for Thursday evening then please contact us by Wednesday this week.
We hope you all enjoy a nice Victoria Day long weekend and have a chance to get outside and enjoy this wonderful warm sunny weather. Great for our mental health!
If you are in need or know of someone who could use our help, PLEASE have them email us at 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 our curb-side pickup option. If you are a resident in Burlington, we are all here to help. Don’t struggle – give us a call.
The people who handle the food intake and then pack the food packages that go out to homes in Burlington need a break and it is a public holiday.
By Staff
May 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Community Development Halton speaks: They are reaching out to the numerous Not for Profit organizations in the Region and asking them to take part in an important survey.
“As Ontario moves into pandemic recovery and rebuilding, the Not for Profit sector needs responsive policy solutions and supports to meet the immediate and long-term needs of our organizations and the communities we serve.
“Data is key! This is a crucial time to gather evidence to plan and to advocate to government and other funders for a more equitable and sustainable recovery.
“That’s why we are asking you to be part of a COVID-19 impact survey led by the Ontario Nonprofit Network (ONN) and l’Assemblée de la Francophonie de l’Ontario (l’AFO). This one-year follow up will build on data from previous surveys by these provincial organizations, most recently in June 2020.
“Part of the survey focus is to gather regional data, which will help better understand the impact of the pandemic in Halton and the unique regional supports needed. As a survey partner, Community Development Halton (CDH) through Social Planning Network Ontario (SPNO) will be analyzing the data for our region to inform our work. We will report back on local context and action for our members, networks, and communities, and facilitate further dialogues for action. As well, we will be looking to ONN’s policy recommendations after the survey and those which connect locally.”
Three reasons to complete the survey
- Inform public policy solutions and other supports to strengthen your nonprofit and the sector
- Include the voices of nonprofits from our region and provide a local context for the pandemic’s impact and evidence needed for sustainability planning. Data will be available in de-identified data sets, with province-wide and region-specific data, to support your own work, community engagement, and advocacy.
- Bonus! Enter to win two free tickets to ONN’s annual conference Nonprofit Driven 2021.
Survey details
The bilingual survey is open to all nonprofits in Ontario (including charities, nonprofit co-operatives and grassroots groups) with a mission to serve a public benefit.
“We need 10 minutes of your time to provide vital data on the financial, operational and human resource impacts of the pandemic on your organization, access or barriers to government measures, and rebuilding opportunities and challenges. This survey closes on June 4, but we would appreciate your response as soon as possible.
“Together, we can collect vital data to advocate for a rebuilding strategy that meets the needs and aspirations of our region and those of other diverse communities across Ontario.”
By Pepper Parr
May 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
New this summer, the City of Burlington is introducing a summer parking fee on weekends through the HONK mobile app.
Users do not have to download the app but can scan the QR code on parking lot signage to pay for parking.
Fees will be charged from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends beginning Saturday, May 22, 2021 until the last weekend in September, Sunday, Sept. 25, 2021.
The Beachway is busier – visitors from outside the city come to enjoy the sandy beach – nothing like it in elsewhere in the Region.
The City is working to make sure residents can safely enjoy the outdoors while following all public health recommendations. The Beachway has gotten more popular over time and last summer saw record demand for parking due to the pandemic, resulting in the City having to use barricades, a drop-off zone, and parking ambassadors to help manage the demand for parking. Illegal parkers were given a warning and issued tickets.
Parking on the median is prohibited – there is a pipeline underneath.
This year, especially those parking on Lakeshore Road shoulders and the grass boulevard over the pipeline, will be towed.
Visitors must pay for parking on weekends. It is an hourly rate of $2.50 or a daily flat rate of $20. Users can scan the QR Code or download the HonkMobile app.
There is a transaction fee of $0.35 for each payment. Dashboard tickets are not needed as every payment is linked to a license plate number.
Parking is free in Downtown Burlington on weekends and holidays. Beachway visitors are encouraged to extend their walk or use the drop-off zone, park and meet their household members at the beach. For parking downtown, visit burlington.ca/downtownparking.
Visitors are also encouraged to consider taking Burlington Transit, cycling, walking or rolling to the beach and leaving their cars at home.
Starting Thursday, July 1, Burlington residents can take advantage of 10 free days of parking per year at Beachway Park. It is recommended that residents wait to fill out the parking exemption form once arriving at the beach and parked in a legal parking spot.
The exemption doesn’t guarantee a spot, but it does give residents free parking for the day.
For more information about parking at Beachway Park, visit burlington.ca/paypark.
Director of Transportation Services, Vito Tolone
Director of Transportation Services, Vito Tolone explains what his department has to cope with: “Parking spaces at Beachway Park are very limited and the lots fills quickly. We are introducing paid parking on weekends this summer to help manage the parking and traffic flow.
“We are still under a Stay-at-Home Order from the province so we’d like to remind Beachway visitors to plan ahead and possibly consider coming back another time if the parking lot is full, or to park in an alternative location. Please avoid parking illegally – City bylaw officers will be actively ticketing and towing to further help manage parking and ensure safe traffic flow.”
By Pepper Parr
May 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The best kept secret in town is on the southern edge of the downtown core.
It has been decades in the making and now when it is at the point where it should have broken into the public imagination – a pandemic gets in the way.
Leanne and Aaron Ciancone, a brother and sister team wait patiently for the rate of infections to get to the point where it will be safe to gather in large groups.
With some luck – there will be a New Year’s Eve event in The Pearle Hotel and Spa.
The Gazette has featured the site and follows the construction of what is going to be the biggest draw the city will have.
Last week we got a look at the construction of a grand stair case that will lead from the reception area to the ballroom and at the same time saw some of the best coffered ceiling work this city has ever seen.
Jean Valery Lacasse took a few minutes to get us access to the site.
Jean Valery Lacasse waiting while a photo shoot is completed.
Lacasse was born and raised in the Quebec countryside, Jean Valery (known to most as JV) was brought up to respect and enjoy farm fresh food while enjoying meals made from his mother’s garden.
After graduating from University Laval with a political science degree, JV moved west to improve his English in Vancouver. He went on to work in some of the best hospitality locations in Canada, including the Sassafraz in Yorkville, the Canoe and the Auberge du Pommier.
He worked in France staging restaurants including Les Trois Gros and Guy Savoy. Lacasse also spent a number of years in Japan.
He was then brought on by IconInk to open the now infamous Cluny restaurant in the Distillery district and was then promoted to act as Corporate Food and Beverage Manager for the company’s newest property, the Bisha Hotel.
JV brings his expertise in food, wine, and hotel operations to Pearle in his new role as Food and Beverage Director for The Pearle Hotel & Spa. While his exceptional experience lends itself to JV’s work ethic, his genuine and thoughtful delivery of hospitality is what makes him stand out from the rest.
The coffered ceiling is atop the grand stair case leading to the ballroom
When you meet the guy you quickly realize he is everything they say he is. He is also patient; waited for me to finish the photo shoot and then moved onto his next task.
Front view of the stair case that will lead to the ballroom. Th sweep of the structure is very dramatic.
A side view of the staircase – thousands of brides will be photographed on those stairs.
Getting the Pearle Hotel and Spa to the point where they are open and operational has taken a long time.
This trip we got to look at the grand staircase that will take people from the reception area to the ballroom. Thousands of young brides are going to have their pictures taken on that sweeping staircase.
The coffered ceiling above the staircase is fantastic. I doubt there is anything in the city that rivals this work. Toronto would be hard pressed to equal this.
The kitchen and the swimming pool are underway with work on outside the building still taking place.
The Pearle is part of the building that is at the intersection of Lakeshore R0ad and Elizabeth Street that rests on the edge of the lake.
This opening in the Bridgewater development runs from Lakeshore Road to the edge of the lake with stairs leading to the water’s edge. The development includes two condominiums and a hotel.
The stairs leading to the edge of the lake will be a great place to sit and watch the fire works displays at the Pier. There was snow on the stairs when this picture was taken.
By Pepper Parr
May 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
In one of the four public meetings, albeit as virtual events, the Regional government has done a superb job of engaging the public as they explained what the issues were and listened to what the public had in the way of responses and solutions.
Regional planning staff were open and transparent and offered to take calls during office hours to answer questions for those who wanted more detail.
North Aldershot is treated as a separate area with different development rules.
The land in the North Aldershot area was described as not the best place for urban development. The topography and the creek systems made urban development problematic and suggested that there were other locations in the Region that were better options for urban development.
Tom Muir is an Aldershot resident who has followed plans to develop in the North Aldershot community.
He wanted to know why the “Minutes of Settlement” that were signed in the 1990’s were not being discussed.
Minutes of Settlement are an agreement between a government and a developer setting out what is permitted in the way of development for a specific location. The Minutes are very detailed.
Regional Staff seemed to feel that those minutes could be set aside. That will be something that will get worked out going forward.
Ward 1 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith took a different view on development potential saying “I completely understand the Region’s position in that they act as an upper tier government for the four municipalities and when it comes to growth, they look to the most efficient areas in terms of servicing.
Boundary of North Aldershot
“I think the North Aldershot area is beautiful and would make a very nice community development of low density residential housing that is in such high demand at the moment. It would be very similar topography to the Tyandaga community which includes lots of valley lands and water features and mature trees. They mentioned that it is very complicated in that the elevation difference between the 403 highway and Waterdown is 100 meters and we know that water does not run up hill naturally.”
Ward 1 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith standing just south of the Waterdown Road bridge over the 403.
Instead of this type of community on beautiful valley lands, the Region has opted to take another easy farm field in the north areas of Milton and Halton Hills and recommend servicing there.
“Where would you rather live as a resident? The choice is easy for me.”
Eagle Heights may very well be that community and that would be it for North Aldershot. Tom Muir asked a good question tonight but the Region did not want to speak to site-specific lands. What complicates their recommendations is that they need to recognize the approvals that Eagle Heights already has.
Eagle Heights is a development that the Paletta interests have an Ontario Municipal Board (now known as LPAT) approval to proceed, however the Regional government has to service the area – putting in water and sewage infrastructure in place.
“This means that the region is obligated to at least service the OMB approvals. If Paletta decides to proceed with his approvals then the next North Aldershot review will be different as the boundary opening will need to be considered.”
By Staff
May 17th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
How well did Burlingtonians behave on Sunday when the weather was about as good as it gets this time of year?
The Parks Culture and Community Department decided not to have staff in the parks keeping an eye on people – looks as if it wasn’t needed.
The pictures that follow are worth a thousand words.
Pictures like this get put on post cards.
Watching the geese at the LaSalle Marina.
Feeding the chipmunks at RBG – these are the best fed creatures in the city.
This is typical Burlington – spending some time at one of the few places in the city that deserves to be called iconic
This is what social distancing is all about. Now if we can get this across to the younger set – we just might have a complete summer.
By Anne Marie Aikins
May 17th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Transit vehicles, especially big commuter trains, can inspire imagination and even a bit of awe. But for some, they become the thing of dreams and wishes.
If given the opportunity to ask for anything – anything in the world – what would be your last big wish?
For one determined young woman, it was to operate a train like the GO trains she often took rides in with her parents. It was always her dream, but now seemed like an impossible feat for someone on her last journey in palliative care.
Romina stands next to a GO Transit Safety officer and his K9 partner at the UP Express terminal at Union Station.
Born with Down syndrome, Romina Asrani is now 21 years old. The endearing and determined wisp of a young woman saw her wish come true at Union Station this past weekend (May 16) when Metrolinx and Alstom Canada staff worked together to create an incredible, joyful experience that no one will soon forget.
This past year has been filled with sadness and loss for everyone. There is a proverb, however that says sorrow is a requirement for finding moments of true joy. This story may seem terribly huge, but because a young woman believed her dream was possible, it also made us believe it too.
And we felt joyous even for a few minutes because of her.
I was first introduced to Romina Asrani and her family when Sick Kids reached out to tell us about her dream to “drive a big train like her grandfather”.
Hesitant at first because it seemed impossible under the circumstances, but I was willing to try and do what we could and agreed to meet with them by video. The Thornhill parents, Mansour and Soraya, told me about their daughter Romina, who was born with Down syndrome and has suffered with multiple illnesses since she was a little girl. She’s a fighter, Soraya said, but is now in palliative care.
Romina Asrani: She’s a fighter, Soraya, her Mother said, “but is now in palliative care.”
Romina told me about her wish to drive a train some day. They often, at least before she became gravely ill and the pandemic began, took the GO train for trips, and she would take the train in Europe too, she said. Her dad would tell her stories about her grandfather who was a train engineer and his stories always fascinated her.
Well, I fell in love with her immediately of course, so proposed we wait until we were out of lockdown and it was safer. She wouldn’t be able to exactly drive a train, I said, but I would see if our rail team could give her a fun trip, nonetheless.
Unfortunately, they were concerned that waiting wasn’t really an option, so we agreed on a Sunday afternoon with barely three days to plan. The parents also requested a reporter be there so they could have her story documented. Romina cheered as we ended the call saying: “Yes, I am going to drive a train!”
I hung up on our video call wondering: ‘What on earth am I going to do? I cannot disappoint her.’
For readers who don’t know, my little sister Jenny was one of the greatest sources of joy in my life. Like Romina, she was also born with Down syndrome and died the day before our first lockdown in March 2020. Jenny would have kicked my butt if I didn’t fulfill Romina’s dream.
So, I reached out across our organization – to senior leadership in rail, transit safety, operations, stations, and beyond – and told them about Romina’s last wish. I pressed send on the email and waited – within minutes everyone responded with the same message.
And then I sat back and watched our teams create some magic. Metrolinx staff worked with Alstom Canada to plan a special UP Express train and a crew to work personally with Romina. Stations staff ensured we were ready to escort the family around safely with a wheelchair for Romina to carry her oxygen and reduce the amount of walking. Transit safety arranged to be on site with Dougie from the K9 team. Souvenir gifts were planned. And a safety plan was meticulously prepared to ensure we remained COVID-safe and were prepared for any type of emergency.
Staff thought of everything and really reached out across our entire organization to prepare for Romina’s special train.
The day finally arrived. As the family pulled up in front of Union Station, I was taken aback just how frail and tiny Romina was as she approached and glad we thought about bringing a wheelchair.
After I greeted Romina and her parents, transit safety and stations staff met with the family as they arrived, took them to the UP Express station and provided her with special gifts including official transit safety badges, a GO bear and plenty of masks. She loved the UV cleaner in the station and made her parents clean their phones. 2
Once the regular scheduled train was loaded with customers and left for the airport, with Romina watching from the platform, the station grew quiet and over the loudspeaker came this soothing voice:
“Attention please, we have an extraordinary announcement. Please join me and all our staff at Metrolinx in welcoming Romina and her family to UP Express as our very special guests today. The next train arriving is Romina’s train.”
“This is the coolest thing, the best thing that has ever happened in my life. I will never forget it, ever.”
Romina’s joy was palpable, and she was giddy with excitement as the specially arranged train arrived and the doors opened. As we entered the train, staff and customers in the station spontaneously cheered loudly.
“This is the coolest thing, the best thing that has ever happened in my life. I will never forget it, ever.”
The crew met Romina and toured her through the train, explained their jobs and when they asked her if she wanted to sit in the conductor’s seat in the cab, she turned to me and said: “Really, you are making this happen for me?”
I’m not sure there was a dry eye at this point. Certainly not mine.
The Alstom crew, engineer Tony Borek and conductor Aaron Trude, took her into the cab, let her hold the key, which she held like it was the most precious treasure and then explained all the gadgets. The microphone was a huge hit; they showed her how to use it to make announcements and toot the horn.
Although she wasn’t technically operating the train, the crew made her feel like she was in control as the train moved the very short trip to platform 3 and back.
Once we were back at the station, Romina sat in the opposite end cab and showed off her skills on the microphone.
“I’m so excited,” she said.
While Romina learned the tricks of the trade, Soraya and I chatted like moms do. She told me just how hard the last year has been for her daughter, the loneliness, her worsening breathing and stays in the hospital. Worrying about contracting a potentially deadly virus added to their anxieties.
Soraya spoke with such fondness and gratitude for their amazing Sick Kids family – the same hospital Jenny was treated at for years.
Then the crew presented her with an official honorary locomotive engineer certificate.
“I could not be happier than I am right this minute,”
“This is the coolest thing, the best thing that has ever happened in my life,” Romina said. “I will never forget it, ever.”
As the family wished, Global News (including Global National) was there to document her journey. When Mansour was asked to speak to the reporter, Romina tugged his sleeve to let him know she had this covered. And then she articulated much better than any of us could what this experience meant to her.
“I could not be happier than I am right this minute,” Romina said. “Thank you all for making my wish come true for me. I love you all. You are my angels.”
When I passed on her thanks to Savio D’Gamma Rose, a manager in the operations centre who helped bring all the details together behind the scenes, his response spoke for all of us: “This was my absolute pleasure. I was lucky to be a part, even in a small way, of bringing some happiness and joy to Romina today.”
Thank you, Romina from all of us.
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