 By Pepper Parr
March 17th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Earlier this month I made the decision to hold comments sent to us from a specific Internet Protocol address that was being used by two different names.
We suspected the two names wwere being used by the same person.
 Our comments section is populated with boisterous, well informed people who comment at length. Frequently there is an exchange of views that goes on for a week or two.
We also get offensive, even libelous comments which we delete. We have, on a few occasions, taken away the opportunity to comment.
Many online publications that have a comment section ensure that they have identified the writer and are satisfied they are real people.
I am always dismayed when a writer does not have the courage of their convictions and chooses to use a phony name.
Many of the comments made are from people who strongly support a particular viewpoint; we welcome those.
Some commentators take us to task for an article they feel was unfair or biased, we welcome those as well.
The general rule is: know your client – it applies to almost everything. People who comment in the Gazette are not clients but we feel it is important that we know who they are – our concern is not with what they wish to say.
 I don’t know Maggie or Mary. One of them claims that there are a number of people writing under a nom de plumes – that may be true – we just don’t have the resources to track down every person who comments nor is it our objective.
We did on one occasion allow a person to identify as anonymous. The person was commenting on a position the City Manager at the time had taken on how he would support his Staff during a very contentious municipal election.
The writer took exception with the City Manager’s position because the writer held a very senior position in another level of government, and was not authorized to speak for that level of government: the person could not use their own name.
Senior bureaucrats are discouraged from taking public positions.
In one comment made by Mary an adjective was used that we didn’t see as offensive. The person being referred to saw it differently. They claimed it was a hate comment and wanted a criminal investigation.
The writer of the adjective apologized and we saw the matter as closed.
We however are still in the position of not knowing who the writers are. We did reach out to talk to them – we do that frequently with names we are not certain are legitimate. Mary did not take up the chance for a discussion
It got messy.
In the past I have come close to closing down the comments section. While I think it is critically important, vital even, that people have a place where they can say what they think and where their peers can respond, monitoring the comments is a significant draw on our limited resources.
There are readers who ask: “Does this really matter? Loads of blogs on social media are not the real names of the authors.”
 True enough, but the Gazette is not a blog; it is a credentialed on line newspaper that has been publishing for more than ten years.
A reader added: “Younger readers and bloggers often use pseudonyms, it’s no big deal. People are just having their say. Many actors, rappers and people with maiden names even though they are married, use different names and surnames.
“These women may be in some sort of relationship. There is also Anne and David Marsden, two people under one name. How do you know who it is commenting on the article, is it Anne or David? Now there is a comment on here just from David. Do David and Anne have the same IP address? If so, how can they be allowed to use the same IP address?”
The difference is that we know that David Marsden is real and we know that Anne Marsden is real.
“This could be an identical situation” said the writer, “some people have separate email addresses and some use a joint address.
“Lives are changing, we should all try to change or at least acknowledge changes. “… a good editor means keeping up with the changing times. I’m sure as I get older I may find it more difficult, too.”
I still do not know if Mary is not the same as Maggie; just saying they are is not enough. I need to KNOW that they are.
There is no discrimination here. Convince me that you are who you say you are and I am a happy camper.
I publish the Gazette, pay for it out of my pocket, and I am responsible for the content.
I would hope that those who choose to comment be responsible enough to properly identify themselves.
 By Staff
March 16th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The winding down of COVID-19 restrictions has begun in most of the country, and it’s being met with both confidence, and concern.
A new study from the non-profit Angus Reid Institute, in partnership with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, finds Canadians divided about the swiftness of public health measure reduction, and open to keep key restrictions in place for longer if necessary.
Indeed, large numbers say that removal is happening too quickly (36%), at the right pace (38%), or too slowly (22%). Significant regional differences define the overall findings, as people in various parts of the country react to the situation where they live and gauge the changes through the lenses of their own realities.
 Nationally, 73 per cent say they would support continuing masking requirements in public spaces while 64 per cent support proof of vaccination at places like restaurants and theatres in their community.
These data help to underline an emerging trend as governments shift responsibility to Canadians to decide which health measures to continue to follow. While official requirements may soon no longer be in place, many are ready to continue with the habits they have formed over the past two years. Two-thirds (64%) will continue sanitizing their hands in addition to washing, three-in-five will maintain the practice of social distancing, and fully half say – at least for the time being – they will avoid large crowds (53%) and continue to wear a mask in public (50%).
 Mayor Meed Ward with staff members at a restaurant chose not to wear a mask. As premiers and public health officials make announcements about the plan for spring, they do so with varied public opinion profiles. In Atlantic Canada, B.C., and Quebec, premiers are perceived as having handled the previous two years well. A majority also say that Canada’s chief public health officer Dr. Theresa Tam has done a good job (56%). On the other end of the spectrum, residents in Manitoba and Alberta are overwhelmingly critical of what they have seen from their premiers since the pandemic began.
 By Staff
March 16th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
During the month of February, the average price for a freehold property in Burlington was $1,626,700, 34.4% higher than February 2021 when we saw the average price at $1,210,336 and 62% higher than the average price of $999,453 during the month of February 2020.
 This is what building out did for communities. During the month of February, properties sold for just over 120% of the listed price and in 7 days, on average.
Sales were down 24% as compared to February 2021.
YTD, prices were up 31.8%, sales were down 18.8% and Days on Market were down almost 50% as compared to the same period in 2021.
Inventory levels remained very low with only 86 properties listed at the end of February as compared to the 5 year average of 196 or 56% less active listings.
During the month of February, just 10 properties sold for under the listed price. The balance sold for well over the listed price with 76 properties selling for in excess of 20% over the asking price.
A couple of standouts – a recently updated backsplit on Ardleigh Cres. was listed for $1,090,000 sold for $1,630,00; 49.5% more than the asking price.
A 1950’s sidesplit on Clarendon Park in original condition was listed at $999,000 and sold with 11 offers for $1,600,000 – 50% over the asking price.
Finally, a good example of the trajectory values have taken was demonstrated with a property that was listed on Catalina in Brant HIlls. This property was listed in 2018 for $784,000 for a couple of months and didn’t sell. With no changes to the condition of the house or property, it was listed in February for $999,000 and sold in 9 days for $1,442,000.
Burlington Condos
During the month of February, the average price for a condo apartment in Burlington was $775,000, 36.7% higher than February 2021 when we saw the average price at $567,000 and 51% higher than the average price of $513,000 during the month of February 2020.
 This is what building up is doing for Burlington During the month of February, properties sold for just over 114% of the listed price and in 12 days, on average. Sales were down 8.2% as compared to February 2021.
Inventory levels were extremely low with just 17 active listings, 63% lower than the 5 year average.
A couple of noteworthy sales. A 1020 sq. ft. 2 bdrm unit at 1451 Walker’s Line in the Tansley neighborhood was listed at $500,000 and sold for $763,000. These units were selling in the high $500’s just 2 years ago. The Chelsea building in Headon Forest saw two remarkable sales.
A 1295 sq. ft. unit, in original condition (circa 2000) was listed at $649,000 and sold for $815,000 and another unit at 1295 sq. ft. slightly more updated, was listed at $599,900 and sold for $829,900. Finally, an 870 sq. ft. unit in the brand new buildings near the Go Station on Fairvew St was listed at $699,000 and sold for $870,000.
What Does All of This Mean
The market continues to be strong, however we are seeing a transition from an overheated market to a sellers market, and expect this will continue to transition over the next 60-90 days, landing us in a balanced market by summer. Apparently world disasters are not causing weakening of prices. It’s hard to imagine what exactly might cause our trading areas to see a major correction.
What we are seeing is expected, the current market is not sustainable, however prices should still hold and if anything just increase on a lesser scale than they have. While we believe we will see some levelling off as inventory levels rise, we don’t anticipate an erosion of values in the foreseeable future.
Obviously, it is a great time to sell still and we believe buyers will see more inventory, and less competition making it a little less stressful when making an offer on a property.
The commentary on the Burlington housing market was provided by the Rocca Sisters Team
 By Pepper Parr
March 15th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Welcome to the world of politics, Natalie.
Being nominated as the Progressive Conservative candidate for Burlington without having to go through the nomination process was certainly a gift.
 Natalie Pierre – newly appointed provincial Progressive Conservative candidate for Burlington One has to wonder what all those card carrying members of the Burlington Progressive Conservative Association think about the decision to forgo a nomination meeting.
The tradition in Canadian politics has been for the candidate to present themselves and their ideas to the people who vote.
The last election (the federal one) the Conservative candidate refused to take part in any media event. Given that you are part of an organization with the word “progressive” in it – it would be reasonable to expect a difference from your team.
No word yet on just who is going to run your campaign; who will handle the fund raising and when we will get to see and hear you.
There is very little information about you in the public domain at this point in time. Not a word about your political activity. Many people who work in the educational sector tend to stay away from politics, however there was a senior Sheridan staff member who took a run at the Liberal leadership a few years ago.
Burlington is a city made up of decent people who love where they live. A large part of the population could be described as professionals with strong values.
This is what the people want. Those who know Jane know that she will be all over your campaign. Get to know Joyce Savoline who once served the people of Burlington at both the Regional and provincial levels. Joyce is the kind of person who will keep you on an ethical path.
Now that we appear to be coming out of the pandemic there are no reasonable reasons for not being public.
We would love to know who you are; what you think, what your values are, and how you believe you can serve the needs of the city.
Being put forward by the current MPP Jane McKenna wasn’t the route many would choose to become a candidate.
My hope is that you will be who you really are and not get muddied by the darker side of politics in this city.
The Progressive Conservatives have provided some of the most effective government the province has had. Learn what Bill Davis and John Robarts did for the province and pattern yourself after that kind of politician.
Be yourself, don’t let others turn you into something you never wanted to be.
Finally, if given the opportunity to rent the little blue house – don’t
Looking forward to meeting you.
 By Staff
March 15th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The Region of Halton released the following:
So you want to run for Council? There’s an info session for that.
Individuals who are considering running for the role of Mayor, Regional Chair, Local or Regional Councillor in any of the Halton Region municipalities this October are invited to register for a virtual information session taking place on April 11, 2022 at 6:30 p.m.
Provided by Halton Region, the City of Burlington, and Towns of Halton Hills, Milton and Oakville, the information session – “So You Want to Run for Council” – will be led by Fred Dean, municipal coach and former municipal solicitor with extensive experience. The session will provide an overview of the roles and responsibilities of regional and municipal council members including duties, scope, and commitments.
This session will not cover information about nomination, campaigning or other election processes. Those details will be available through each of the area municipalities closer to the start of nomination this May.
For potential candidates
While the email address is Oakville the event is open to anyone.
For voters
 Voters waiting to cast their ballots While the municipal election is still months away, eligible voters can now complete the first step in preparing to vote this fall. Visit MPAC’s website www.voterlookup.ca to check if you are on the voter list. You can add or verify your details, update your address or contact information, and add new eligible voters of your household.
For general information on the municipal election, contact the respective website: Halton Region, Burlington, Halton Hills, Milton, Oakville.
The way Burlington will run its municipal election
 By Staff
March 15th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
 Surveys are available for residents to complete to identify opportunities and barriers for supporting and encouraging electric mobility in Burlington. Participants have the opportunity to complete one or more surveys on:
The survey starts with a few general questions and then you will be given the option to select which survey you would like to answer. At the end of each survey you can choose to complete another or answer some optional questions before you submit. Thank you for your feedback.
 By Staff
March 15th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The Town of Milton has ended its state of emergency for Covid-19. The state of emergency was first declared at the onset of the pandemic, on March 24, 2020.
The ending of the state of emergency follows the same announcements from Milton’s municipal partners – Halton Region and the Town of Oakville.
 With the end of the state of emergency, all residents are thanked for their resilience and commitment to keep our community safe. Residents are asked to remain kind, considerate ,and respectful toward those who continue to practice public health measures for their own well-being.
Residents are also encouraged to remain vigilant and practice what we have learned over the last two years. This includes staying home when sick and most importantly, getting vaccinated and boosted.
By Pepper Parr
March 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Natalie Pierre For over 30 years, Natalie Pierre and her husband Paul have made Burlington their home. Natalie is a human resources and finance professional with experience in the public and private sector. For the past 13 years, she has led hiring and recruitment at Sheridan College.
As a mentor and coach, Natalie has worked with high school, college and university students, to overcome the challenges they face in entering the workforce.
A determined problem solver, Natalie has worked tirelessly with all levels of government to advocate for improved mental health supports. Natalie and her husband have two children, Katie (25) and Mike who would have been 22 this year. Natalie has, and will continue to be, a strong voice at Queen’s Park.
 By Pepper Parr
March 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
During the debate on March 2nd about the use of city facilities when elections are taking place, I sent the following to the City Clerk:
“There were two documents on the screen that did not appear to be in the agenda.
I have attached two screen shots to help you identify what I am talking about.
Would you have both documents sent to me – and would you explain why the documents were not in the agenda pkg.
I did not get a response from the City Clerk but I did get a response from the city communications department – the City Clerk doesn’t appear to answer email sent to him – a matter we will cover in some detail on another occasion.
We wanted a copy of a document that Mayor Meed Ward introduced to Council as a “walk on” agenda item. Walk on means the item was not on the agenda. The Procedural bylaw requires that the Chair of the meeting seek the approval of a majority of Council to permit the “walk on” item. It was the Clerk’s job to catch the error and bring it to the attention of the Chair.
That didn’t happen either.
 City Clerk Kevin Arjoon had nothing to say When a report is being introduced to a Standing Committee meeting there is usually an introduction or comments from Staff on why the report is before Council. City Clerk Kevin Arjoon had nothing to say – so the Mayor moved the report which allowed her to then talk about the nine amendment she had plus a Staff Direction.
Some Gazette readers took exception with our concern over the documents not being available to the public – they are usually available five or six days before a meeting – giving those interested an opportunity to delegate. That is another matter that will also be covered at another time.
Two of the nine amendment were not staff supported; the others were supported by Staff.
Each amendment was introduced to the Standing Committee. There was stiff debate on some of the amendments.
The agenda item was: Use of Corporate Resources During an Election Policy.
In previous municipal elections then Councillors Meed Ward and Bentivegnia had significant issues with the Clerk’s department as to what was permitted and what was not permitted. There were some pretty silly decisions made by the Clerk at the time.
 Marianne Meed Ward had some direct experience with city staff, the Clerk’s Office to be specific, on how election rules should be administered. She was making sure that the same things didn’t happen in 2022 Mayor Meed Ward started her presentation setting out “Principles” and adding a :However to those Principles.
The Mayor then took council through each of the amendments – one by one.
What Meed Ward wanted to ensure was that members of Council would still be able to do their jobs while the election campaign is taking place. There were portions of the policy document that could be interpreted to suggest that a Councillor seeking re-election had an advantage. All members of those currentlt on council were consistent in wanting a level playing field.
During the meeting the Committee Clerk was able to make changes in the document that was before Council. In the illustration below you can see where items have been revised.
Most of the rules related to city space and would not apply to independent bodies like the Performing Arts Centre, the Art Gallery and the Libraries. The independent bodies were expected to create policies of their own. Councillor Bentivegnia argued that it was still city property – and it is – but it is city property that is governed by an independent Board. It took Bentivegnia a couple of conversations to fully understand that one.
Council members and many Staff people use their own phone for city business. The city pays a person who uses their own phone about $35 a month
The use of city business cards during an election was prohibited – but what does a candidate do if while talking to a voter at the door step the voter asks about a specific problem. Can the candidate give them a copy of the Council members business card and ask the voter to call the office and get the help they need?
The point being made was that while you are electioneering you are a candidate and not a Councillor. Councillor Nisan suggested that they all take part in a bonfire at which they would all burn their city provided business cards.
Incumbents are seen to have advantages new candidates don’t have in terms of media. This council was going to great lengths to ensure that their names and pictures did not appear in documents coming out of city hall.
Social media was a challenge. Some things on social media cannot be changed. An entry on LinkedIn cannot be changed was an example Meed Ward gave.
A lot of time was spent figuring out how Council members could talk about city business and not cross the line into working as a candidate. Several Councillors wanted the city communications department to monitor what the Councillors sent out – the Communications department took a pass on that one.
Meed Ward argued that during the period between May 2, when candidates can file their nominations through to the last Council meeting in September, there was still a lot of serious council business to take care of. There had to be a way for Council members to communicate with their constituents and at the same time campaign. Removing any name identification and photographs (the Councillor would be identified as Councillor for Ward X) from communications material the city issues was determined to be the best approach
Meeting with constituents at a ward meeting called by the Councillor had all kinds of possible red flags. Councillors saw it as unreasonable for a Councillor to say nothing about running for office at a meeting to discuss an issue.
Burlington is now very much into branding. There is a project that focuses on creating and promoting One Burlington, to ensure that the city as a corporation gets the visibility and attention it feels it deserves and needs.
 During the last election Mayor Meed Ward arm wrestled with the City Clerk at the time over the placing of small magnetic fridge cards on the bumpers of cards. Councillor delegated to Council on his right to put signage on his vehicle. The Clerk at the time argued that part of the vehicle was paid for by the city. It was a different Clerk and a different time.
All these amendments had merit. Councillor Kearns added an amendment of her own asking that Spencer Smith Park be kept campaign free. That lost – however Civic Square was defined as campaign free.
The issue for the Gazette was the absence of any public input. While this Council would love to believe they are all going to be acclaimed – that is as certain as that Irish rainbow that is going to direct us all to that mythical pot of gold.
It was at the end of the meeting that those monitoring the web cast heard the City Clerk apologize for the walk on report – he said it was better to do it now rather than wait until April.
That raised a serious – why wasn’t this done months ago?
We all knew what the date of the election was going to be. A city that can’t stop itself from touting how engaged it is – manages to find a way to issue a report that is the very foundation of the way we choose our leaders. The Clerk’s incompetence should have been noticed by the City Manager. How did he manage to be asleep at the switch while the Clerk fumbled with the file?
 By Staff
March 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The Freeman Station has announced that they will re-open in April.
Put a day at the station in your calendar – one of the best spots to learn what railways meant to the city.
 Produce from Burlington farm fields being loaded on a train at the Burlington Junction stop.  Completely renovated – the station is a proud recognition of the history of the city
 By Pepper Parr
March 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
UPDATE
Jane McKennasai: I’m happy to report, that on my recommendation, yesterday the Ontario PC Party named long-time Burlington resident Natalie Pierre as our candidate. To learn more about Natalie, request a lawn sign, make a donation or volunteer on the campaign please visit www.nataliepierrepc.ca.
So much for a democratic nomination
Have the Progressive Conservatives in Burlington decided to concede the seat in the Provincial Legislature?
 No word yet on who their candidate is going to be.
 Jane McKenna gave is giving up the provincial seat to run as Chair for the Region of Halton. Jane McKenna has announced that she will be running for the Chair of Halton Regional Council in October.
With something close to 75 days of campaigning left before ballots are cast June 2nd, one has to wonder what’s going on with the Burlington Progressive Conservative Association.
To date 18 of the people who went to the Legislature with Doug Ford 18 have decided they don’t want to return.
 Mariam Manaa met Andrew Drummond on his door step while she was out campaigning. To date the candidates are Mariam Manaa the Liberal Party and Andrew Drummond running for the New Democratic Party.
 By Peggy Russell
March 13th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Public School Board Trustees in the Province of Ontario have less than a week to make a very big decision regarding their responsibility to the students and staff and, by extension, the welfare of their communities, with the responsibility they were charged with when elected.
 Peggy Russell Do they follow the direction of the Premier of this Province or do they follow the advice of the experts represented through the Ontario Children’s Health Coalition’s Statement of March 9, 2022?
The Ontario Children’s Health Coalition states: “Masks remain an important layer of protection as the pandemic continues and may be needed in communities with low vaccination rates and where there is a surge in cases. Masks also protect those most vulnerable, including high-risk, immunocompromised and fragile children.”
Trustees in the Province of Ontario have a definitive Role in which, “they must weigh what is in the best interests of the whole education system” which they are duly elected to represent.
This will be the true test of elected Trustees relevancy; there is no hedging around this one.
Either they listen to the experts from the Ontario Children’s Health Coalition or, if they do not, they should be prepared for the potential legal ramifications, not just as a Board, but as individuals who could be named in Legal Actions for not following the advice of the experts from the Ontario Children’s Health Coalition.
Currently Trustees have been advised that legally, they must abide by Public Health Orders. My question is: Are those Orders in the best interest of our collective society or that of special interest groups and some sectors of industry?
Then there is the moral obligation to the children, families/guardians, of the students they serve: to ensure that each and every student, no matter their health status, is provided the same opportunity to learn in a safe classroom environment.
Do Trustees understand that this indeed is their Alamo?
Either they listen to the experts from the Ontario Children’s Health Coalition and do what is right or they follow a “lame duck” Premier who is seeking re-election and the Orders of Ontario Public Health Units who serve at the pleasure of the Premier and their government. Which will it be?
Trustees in Ontario must be prepared to legally challenge the Province, Ministry of Education and, where applicable, Ontario Public Health Units. Trustees need to understand what is truly at stake at this moment or they risk becoming irrelevant.
Peggy Russell is a past Vice-Chair of the Halton District School Board. and was a Director of the Ontario Public School Board Association for eight years.
 By Pepper Parr
March 12th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Will there be mayhem on the streets when masks can be off everywhere and almost anywhere on March 21st ?
What does that do to plans various organizations have to protect the people they care for ? The Hamilton-Wentworth School Board is reported to have told the province that they will require Masks in schools until April 15th.
With the Spring Break keeping schools closed, the concern that people travelling may bring the virus home with them; and the expected increase in social activity will bring together people who have not been together in the past increasing the opportunity for the virus to spread.
No masks in this picture: does that mean we will see every member of Council in their seats next week? What will that do to our elected officials and the way they meet.
City Council is due to meet on the 22nd – will it be a virtual meeting, which appears to be the preference for most of the seven members on Council.
There is a bylaw in place calling for virtual council meetings – will that be the excuse that is used to require the meeting to be virtual?
The bylaw hasn’t prevented the Mayor from taking advantage of every possible photo-op.
The City Manager is reported to be working on the approach the city will take to opening things up and at the same time reporting on how many City Hall staff will work off-site and how many will work in city facilities.
There are some jobs that have to be performed at a city office; others that can be done by people working off site. The policy appears to be that a staff member is either an on-site or an offsite employee. They cannot switch from one to the other.
More clarity on just how this will be implemented and what the impact will be on the public can be expected soon given that the province has already started the process of getting to the point where there are no restrictions.
Why any of this is being done while we are still working with a pandemic befuddles us. When the World Health Organization moves Covid19 to an endemic – the restrictions can be moved.
What will we do if there is a sudden steep increase in infections ?
That appears to be a risk the politicians are ready to take.
By Pepper Parr
March 12th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The deadline for responses to the survey put out after the Waterfront Study virtual meeting that took place on February 22nd, was March 1st the last date they would be accepted.
 There are two things taking place with the area outlined in blue. The oldest activity is a study of the area outlined in blue which the city says has been ongoing since 2018 – it actually started way back in 2015 when the city had a Staff member doing some work on what would be possible and fit in with the Promenade and Spencer Smith Park when the owners of the Waterfront Hotel decided they were ready to redevelop the property. The area within the red boundary is the property owned by Darko Vranich . In August of 2021 he began the process of providing the City Planning department the information it would need to prepare a report for City Council which would decide to Approve the development, Not approve the development or approve a development with required changes. hotel site was ready. The report from the Planning department has to be before City Council and approved no later than April 17th of 2022 It was a very short survey; two questions – what did you think and where do you live.
 The X’s mark the land the city would take as permitted park land allowance. Shouldn’t have taken all that long to sift through the responses, pass them along to the consultants overseeing the study and share both the results of the survey and whatever the next step was going to be.
There was some interesting news shared during the DATE meeting – the most significant being that the city planned on taking a 20 metre wide piece of land from the west side of the site. The width would run from Lakeshore Road to the southern and of the the property line.
There doesn’t appear to be any sense of urgency about a study that is intended to “inform” the long term development that will take place. Wouldn’t the Hotel site development application, if approved, set the pattern for any development in the immediate area. No?
Related news stories:
A time line that didn’t work for the citizens.
What about a land swap
The Statutory meeting
By Pepper Parr
March 12th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Who do we hear from when a comment is made?
We put our name on everything we write – no fake names and we expect people who comment to do the same thing.
We recently came across a situation where there were two names, often saying basically the same thing.
We did reach out to talk to one of them, Mary Hill, to get some clarification. We did ask for a phone number, didn’t get one but the answers she gave us to the questions we asked were satisfactory.
 Using your real name is usually a good idea. Then we noticed this:
Maggie Riley
margaret.riley070272@gmail.com
Mary Hill
maryhill25091962@gmail.com
What’s your problem? you might ask. When all the data we have is available we have the following:
Maggie Riley
margaret.riley070272@gmail.com
70.49.45.202
Mary Hill
maryhill25091962@gmail.com
70.49.45.202
The IP (Internet Protocol) addresses are the same – Maggie Riley and Mary Hill would appear to be the same person.
That’s not the way the game is played.
We will no longer publish comments from either name until there is clarification as to just who is the author of the comments.
 By Staff
March 11th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The free co-fare program begins Monday, March 14, 2022 and promotes using local transit, like Burlington Transit, as part of users’ GO Transit journey.
 How to get the free/discounted co-fare
Tap on Burlington Transit and GO Transit using a PRESTO card and riders will automatically get the free co-fare.
When taking Burlington Transit first:
- Ride Burlington Transit and pay the fare.
- Get on GO Transit and your GO Transit fare will be discounted by the value of the Burlington Transit fare.
 Will parking in the parking lots we leave our cars in remain free while we ride these trains? When taking GO Transit first:
- Travel on GO Transit and pay the fare.
- Get on a Burlington Transit bus and it’s the same as a transfer—there are no extra fees
This program allows customers to ride Burlington Transit for free combining Burlington Transit with GO Transit.
For a Burlington adult that commutes every weekday using Burlington Transit and GO Transit, this could add up to savings of more than $200 a year. There are four GO Transit options in Burlington: Aldershot GO, Appleby GO, Burlington GO and the 407 Carpool lot (buses only).
 By Connor Fraser
March 11th,, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that how we interact with the internet, and social media in particular, is disastrous from a health perspective.
Firstly, several studies have noted the link between social media use and depression. A 2018 study released in the Journal of Cyberpsychology, Behaviour and Social Networking demonstrated that every one-point increase in passive social-media use was associated with a 33% increase in depressive symptoms.
 Secondly, many have identified links between social media use and reduced memory and attention. Research published by the Gerontological Society of America reported that “on days when social media use was high, individuals reported more memory failures” and furthermore that “higher previous-day social media-use was associated with more memory failures on the subsequent day.” The researchers hypothesize that a key mechanism for memory failures is attentional disengagement, whereby “individuals using social media are less engaged in real-world activities…and may not encode these events and experiences as deeply as they would otherwise.”
Late in 2021, Facebook made headlines by announcing it would re-brand itself as ‘Meta’ signalling CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s intention to play a key role in developing the ‘Metaverse’: The next generation of the internet, enabled by technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). Instead of clicking on webpages and newsfeeds, users will eventually navigate a digital world similar to the physical world, complete with their own avatars, and digital property such as clothing and land.
Imagine a world where a significant number of people live within a tightly controlled digital experience, rarely going outside or interacting with their neighbours. Companies such as Meta and Microsoft are betting big on people spending a lifetime online. But regardless of how scary this potential future looks like, many (particularly young people) are already living in a pseudo-metaverse.
For example, a 2019 article reported that children under age 14 spent nearly twice as long with their tech devices per day as they do with their families. These transformations are having profound impacts on our memories, and ability to pay attention and focus – which has serious implications for the future productivity of our economy, democracy and ability to confront life’s challenges. I argue that social media is already causing serious harms to society – and should be carefully regulated if we hope to prevent these harms and stop the ‘Metaverse’ from magnifying them to a terrifying level.
Consider that an incredible amount of resources have been dedicated towards designing social media and metaverse technologies to be maximally addictive. Former engineers at Google and Meta admit that their apps exploit the same psychological susceptibilities that makes gambling so compulsive, such as variable rewards. Faced to confront the latest techniques in psychology and advanced machine-learning algorithms, it’s no wonder why many find themselves continually attached to their phones – it’s not your fault!
Neither is it uniquely the fault of social media companies, who to my knowledge have not been accused of breaking government laws and regulations in any major way. The role of the firm has always been to generate profits for shareholders – and implicitly value for their customers. Contrastingly, it is the role of the government to identify activities that generate negative externalities and positive externalities – and regulate those activities which produce negative externalities (such as pollution) and fund those activities which produce positive externalities (such as public education).
The current relationship with social media is such that people receive an onslaught of messages from numerous platforms and numerous devices, and find themselves very quickly “toggling” between tasks, unable to consistently focus on any one task for greater than 3 minutes, on average. This toggling is rapidly eroding the capacity for long-term, strategic focus – precisely the tools that people need to set goals and achieve anything meaningful in life.
 It is worth noting that social media is not entirely bad, and there are positive aspects to these technologies. For example, in a report commissioned by PEW research, many teens reported that access to social media played an important role in overcoming difficult life experiences. These benefits were magnified for vulnerable populations, such as youth from households with annual incomes less than $30,000 – suggesting that social media offered critical support group that wouldn’t have otherwise been available or affordable.
Moreover, the majority of teens responded that social media enables them to spend time with their friends on a daily basis, through free messaging and video chatting features. During the pandemic, these services have undeniably played an outsized role in enabling people to remain in touch while in-person opportunities were limited. Additionally, some have argued that powerful social media algorithms provide a great service by connecting people with products that are optimally tailored to their needs. To cite one example, last year I received a Spotify advertisement for the language program “Learn French by Podcast” which I subsequently subscribed to and got a huge amount of value from.
While it is clear that social media has benefits to offer when used appropriately, I think it is important to recognize that certain use patterns can be incredibly destructive – especially when people turn to aimless scrolling and passive searching for instant validation. To prevent harms from further accumulating amongst young people, and also to prevent these harms from accelerating as the metaverse becomes more potent, the government must develop an action plan to leave people in control of their relationship with social media.
 Any action plan should focus on increasing healthy behaviour and preventing harmful behaviour. One strategy might include imposing regulations on tech giants that make it mandatory for all apps to periodically (i.e. once per month) provide users with a “time-spent” report, remind them about healthy-use habits, and remind them of in-app features that exist to turn-off notifications and block content. Another strategy might include devoting greater government resources to educate citizens about the circumstances under which social media use is harmful. Integrating compulsory modules into the elementary and high-school curriculum about healthy social media practices would be a good start.
Two final points to add. In order to proceed with meaningful action, more academic research of much greater rigour, needs to be conducted. The study cited above from the Journal of Cyberpsychology, Behaviour and Social Networking made use of an online survey where participants answered subjective questions about their experience with social media and any subsequent feelings of depression. This is hardly sufficient evidence, nor the type of decisive evidence I would want to have in my arsenal to push back against big tech. The calibre of academic scholarship in this field needs to improve dramatically in order to provide a clear rational for action that will find sustainable support amongst the majority of citizens.
Finally, I wonder if there is an appetite to explore different business models. One of my professors at the Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy, Daniel Breznitz, once commented that “if you’re not paying for a service, you’re a product, not the customer.” In the world of Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat, users pay no subscription fees and should therefore think of themselves as “products”.
In order to generate revenues, these business models must create value for their actual customers (i.e. advertisers) by keeping us online for as long as possible. Altering the model by introducing a subscription fee could allow companies to generate value for users as their primary customers, and perhaps abandon the need to aggressively target us with manipulative techniques.
Regardless of what action the government decides to take, this file requires some movement, and I’m shocked that Canadians have received limited leadership from elected officials until now. With continued complacency we are sleepwalking into a future health and economic crisis of titanic proportions.
 Born in Hamilton, raised in Aldershot, Connor Fraser attended Waterdown Montessori School, Glenview Public School, Burlington Christian Academy and Aldershot High School. He earned a BASc. in Engineering Science and a major in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Toronto. He then worked as a member of the technology development team at Microchip Corporation (North San Jose, California) where he contributed to the design of computer memory for FPGA chips.
Connor volunteered for the U of T Human Powered Vehicles Design Team as a machinist and led the design of a rollover detection system for high-speed tricycles. During the summer of 2013, 2015 and 2017, Connor lived in Quebec thanks to support from the YMCA Student Work Summer Exchange, and the Explore Program & is decently proficient in spoken French.
He is currently enrolled in the dual Master of Global Affairs and Master of Business Administration program and is concurrently a CFA Level 2 candidate. He is a Senior Producer with “Beyond the Headlines”, a weekly public affairs radio show that airs on CIUT 89.5FM
By Pepper Parr
March 11th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Here are the facts.
The province lifts the face mask requirement effective March 21st.
Burlington’s City Council will meet on March 22nd.
Since the beginning of the pandemic City Council has been meeting virtually.
 Council has been meeting virtually. Will this end on March 22nd? Will Council meet in public on March 22nd?
Probably not because there is a masking by law in place that they have to revoke first.
However, the municipalities in Ontario deeply resent the fact that they are the creatures of the province and have to do what the province says they have to do.
 Will the public actually be able to finally see their elected council waiting to do the public’s business? Now the question: What are the odds that Council will meet in public on March 22nd with senior staff in the room?
 By Staff
March 10th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
 In the past the damage was graffiti. It isn’t public art by any stretch of the imagination. It’s kids with too much free time on their hands and parents not fully aware of what their children are doing. 15 bus shelters in Burlington have been vandalized.
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) is investigating an ongoing string of damage targeting bus shelters.
Between February 23 and March 7, 2022, 15 bus shelters in Burlington have been vandalized. On several occasions, the city completed repairs only to have the glass on the same shelter smashed again overnight.
The majority of the shelters targeted were on New Street however police are also investigating occurrences on Lakeshore Road, Harvester Road, Brant Street and Guelph Line.
The HRPS is conducting extra patrols in these areas and request residents report any suspicious activity to police. Police have not made any arrests and do not have any suspect descriptions to provide.
 Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the 3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4777 ext. 2316
Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. “See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.
 By Pepper Parr
March 10th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Is this a love story – or just a story about a bunch of randy creatures looking for some action?
It’s Salamander mating season and they are migrating across King Road
 He isn’t exactly pretty but nevertheless plays an important role in the local environment. Comes in different colours as well. Spring is around the corner and the annual passage of the endangered Jefferson salamanders during their breeding migration will begin soon. King Road, near the base of the Niagara Escarpment to Mountain Brow Road, continues to be closed for construction of a nearby subdivision. The base of King Road will reopen to local traffic on April 15, once the salamanders are expected to finish their annual crossing.
Since 2012, the City of Burlington has closed the same section of road for the salamanders which are a nationally and provincially protected endangered species.
 Expect to see this guy crossing King Road late at night – road is closed to protect him About the Jefferson Salamander
In Canada, the Jefferson salamander is found in Southern Ontario in select areas of deciduous forest, mostly along the Niagara Escarpment.
Jefferson salamanders spend most of their lives underground. As the weather warms up and the spring rains begin, the salamanders emerge and migrate to breed in temporary ponds formed by run-off, laying their eggs in clumps attached to underwater vegetation. Adults leave the ponds after breeding. By late summer, the larvae lose their gills, become air-breathing juveniles and leave the pond to head into the surrounding forests.
Adult salamanders migrate to their breeding ponds during wet rainy nights. They show a strong affinity for the pond in which they hatched and can be very determined to reach it, sometimes causing them to cross busy roads.
 The Jefferson Salamander was the largest part of the decision to not permit an expansion of the quarry in 2012
In the years the Gazette has been covering the story of the Jefferson Salamander – they were a critical part of the decision in 2012 to not permit an expansion of the Nelson Quarry – one would have thought they would get more recognition and respect.
Someone should begin a movement to have the Jefferson Salamander the official mascot of the city – heck they deserve hero status for what they have achieved.
Quick Facts
• The Jefferson salamander is protected at both the provincial and national levels. It was added to Ontario’s endangered species list in 2011.
• Jefferson salamanders have a grey or brown-coloured back, with lighter under-parts. Blue flecks may be present on the sides and limbs.
• Adult Jefferson salamanders are 12 to 20 cm long. The long tail makes up half this length.
• Unlike most small animals, Jefferson salamanders can live a very long time; up to 30 years of age.
 Burlington Ward 1 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith does his bit to protect the Salamander explaining that: “Not only do the residents of Ward 1 do their part to protect the Jefferson Salamander every spring, the whole community embraces this road closure to help preserve this endangered species. Over the past decade, these conservation efforts have helped to ensure the Jefferson Salamander population is given a chance to survive and thrive in the years to come. Thank you to everyone who takes this short inconvenience in stride to protect our beloved ‘Jeffy’.”
 Hassaan Basit, President and CEO, Conservation Halton who is perhaps best seen as God Father to the creatures add that ““The decade-long partnership between Conservation Halton and the City of Burlington has resulted in the preservation of the Jefferson Salamander population. We are pleased to share that since the first King Road closure in 2012, we have observed no Jefferson Salamander road mortality in that area during the migration period.”
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