 By Staff
February 8th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The province has a Financial Accountability Office (FAO) which recently reported that the Ford government will withhold nearly $20 billion in promised spending by 2024/2025.
The NDP Finance critic said: “This FAO report reveals that Ford is on track to leave almost $20 billion on the table, deliberately under-spending on health care, education, and justice – services that are vital to Ontarians.
 Leader of the Opposition at Queen’s Park, Marit Stiles “I am extremely concerned that Ford is taking money from health care and education and putting it in ‘contingency funds’ that are unallocated and not transparent. Ontarians deserve to know how their tax dollars are being spent, and the Ford government should be investing in the services that people need, not stockpiling funds with no purpose.
“Budgets are about priorities. This report makes it crystal clear that Ford is not prioritizing the well-being of Ontarians.
“We have been travelling around the province with the pre-budget committee, listening to delegations from organizations that desperately need funding for health care, education, and mental health supports. They are coming to us in good faith, and their concerns are not being heard.
“We need our government to listen to the people of Ontario and commit to spending the money they have on the services we need – not hiding it away.”
Marit Stiles, who now sits in the Legislature as leader of the New Democrats, will be doing some door to door campaigning in Hamilton today.
 By Pepper Parr
February 7th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
We know that Climate Change is taking place.
We know we have to adapt.
But do we do the adapting ?
 Do the small things matter – those we can afford to do. The big things are what seem to be called for – but few are really sure what that amounts to.
There is a property owner who has converted his home to a showcase that has just about every Eco Home feature you can think of into the building. This is an opportunity to see how it can be done – and it isn’t all that expensive.
Burlington Green is sponsoring an event: Jim’s Green House Tour; that takes you through a home, its heating system to the placement of the windows and the garden, every element of the property was designed with the Earth in mind.
You can take a tour on February 27th: both in-person and online participation options.
1) Attend in-person – (register here) limit of 10 attendees – 4:30-6 pm
2) Attend via Zoom – (register here) – 4:45-6 pm
By Staff
February 7th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The Gazette uses a number of security applications to protect the contents of the newspaper. One of the service providers sent this along. It is essential that people understand the need to protect what gets done with a computer or a cell phone. These are simple steps suitable for a five years old. Get them started on security early – it is not going to get safer any time soon
Fostering habits for some simple yet good cybersecurity and privacy best practices early on can go a long way.
1. Lock the device.
When it’s time to put away the phone or tablet so your child can do something else like going to the park, remind them to lock it. They can do this by pressing the power button of the device. Of course, this only works if you have Lock Screen enabled on the device.
If your child is 5 years old and up, you can explain to them that locking the phone or tablet stops other people from using it without asking permission.
2. Use passwords.
 Teach your children how to use passwords and how to remember them easily Of course, in order to lock a device’s screen, a password is needed in this case. Not going for a pattern lock is deliberate. At this stage, we’re not only seeding the idea of creating strong passwords but also making locking devices the norm (From 2016 to 2018, a reported 28 percent of Americans surveyed failed to use any safeguards to lock their phones).
Don’t be too concerned about length yet, but if you can get your little one to spell out and remember a six to eight-character string—ideally, a word—you’re both golden. We started our little one with a three-letter password to open her tablet when she was four, and we plan to triple that length now that she’s two years older.
3. Keep the device in a safe place.
Instruct your little one to put away the phone or tablet after they lock it. Make sure you already have a designated place in the house that your child knows about. Also, check that this place is accessible, and if it has doors, they can easily open and close them with minimal effort and supervision.
Under a pillow on the master’s bed works, too (just don’t forget to remove it before bedtime).
4. Ask for permission.
Your five-year-old may have access to either the Google Play or Apple App stores via the device you’re letting them use. Whether you have parental controls set up for these stores or not, wouldn’t it be great to hear them ask: “Is this okay to download, mum?” This gives you, the parent or guardian, the opportunity to review the app to see if it’s any good for them (Remember, dubious apps can still end up in these stores.).
The same principle should apply when they’re watching videos on YouTube.
Every now and again, we see or read about cute or cartoony clips that are not actually for kids’ consumption. And believe it or not, some of them were purposefully made to appear inviting to young children. To be safe, a critical eye is needed because, sometimes, even YouTube’s AI can get it wrong.
 When the children are young insist that they share with family and close friends. 5. Share only with relatives and close family friends.
Kiddo loves having her picture taken. Sometimes, she would ask me to take a snap and send it to her Nana, who is part of an Instagram group.
Thankfully, only family members—and those close to us who’re treated as family—are members of that group. We would’ve been reluctant to share otherwise.
Kiddo doesn’t have a single social media account, but we’re already instilling in her the value of information related to her and, consequently, us. She knows our home address, for example, and she also knows she should only share it with a policeman or policewoman if she’s lost.
Final thoughts
The computing devices and apps your little one uses are already impacting them in more ways than one. It’s essential to steer them in the right direction by getting ourselves involved in their digital lives as early as possible. There is plenty of room for growth.
So, parents and guardians, be patient. Repeat these points and expand on them. And, if you’re lucky, be thankful that before your child starts school, they already have some of the cybersecurity and privacy basics down.
 By Staff
February 7th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
At 2:40 pm yesterday afternoon Burlington MP Karina Gould stood up in the House of Commons and had this to say.
 Burlington MP Karina Gould “Mr. Speaker, one thing is clear: Over the last seven years, this government has been there for Canadians. In fact, from 2015 to 2020, poverty in Canada was reduced by 2.7 million Canadians. That is 782,000 children and 178,000 seniors.
“What happened in 2015? The government changed. The Liberals were elected and the Conservatives were out. It seems like something happened.” What can one say to that?
 Oakville North—Burlington MP Pam Damoff. Earlier in the month Pam Damoff rose in the House and reminded Canadians that February is Black History Month and added:
Mr. Speaker, 28 years ago, Canada’s first Black woman elected to Parliament, the Honourable Dr. Jean Augustine, was responsible for the House of Commons designating February as Black History Month in Canada.
Every February and throughout the year, we honour the legacy of Black Canadians, past and present, whose contributions have helped to make Canada the prosperous, compassionate and multicultural nation it is today. It is also a time to reflect on, and to remove, the inequities that still exist for Black Canadians.
Damoff is the MP for Oakville North—Burlington. She reminded her constituents of the several Black oriented groups in the community: The Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton, Halton Black History Awareness Society, Sheridan College, Black Mentorship Inc. and many other organizations are hosting events and community programming taking place this month.
.
By Pepper Parr
February 7th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Canada Day is going to be different this year.
 New Canadians being sworn in on Canada Day. Traditionally, people have gathered at Spencer Smith Park; some years to watch new Canadians being sworn in as citizens. Two Mounties usually volunteer to take part in the event
There will be a speaker talking about what makes Canada special.
The Teen Tour Band performs.
Before the Brant Museum underwent a massive change ice cream and strawberries were served. It hardened back to a time when a Strawberry Social was a significant social event in Burlington.
 Brant museum serves strawberries and ice cream on Canada Day This July the city is going to close Brant Street from Lakeshore Road up to Caroline. No word yet on just how the city will “animate” the street; expect the merchants to put their wares on the sidewalk and every outdoor patio will be filled as long as the weather holds.
With all the “action” taking place on Brant Street will people still gather at the Park ?
People will certainly work their way down to the Park for the fire works display.
Some serious thinking to be done about how the day will work out. Could be very interesting.
Council put the $15,000 cost of closing a street in the budget in perpetuity.
 The Day ends with a huge sire works display
 By Staff
February 7th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
No money? No problem!
Celebrating the month of love with your sweetheart doesn’t have to cost much when you have a library card.
Here are some ways you can spend a date with your Valentine (or Palentine) using your Burlington Public Library membership.
 Too cute to take a pass on. They are free – at the library This month, they are offering free Valentine’s Day postcards from our Ivan Cleaver historic postcard collection. We have restored a super cute card for you to share with your cutie. Pick one up at your local branch and stay to learn about all the fun ways you can celebrate with your sweetheart.
Enjoy A Movie Night In!
Your Burlington Public Library Card gives you access to thousands of movies online and on DVD. Borrow or download an old favourite, toss a bag of popcorn in the microwave, and cozy up on the couch.
We have two free streaming services you can use with your library card: Kanopy and Hoopla. They both offer award-winning documentaries, classic cinema, and modern hits.
Have a Book Swap Date
Visit the library and go “secret shopping” with your pal or paramour. Give each other a few prompt words, then hit the stacks separately to search for a book that your love would love. Want to level up this option? Bring a thermos of coffee or hot cocoa and read your selections in our comfy seating areas once you’ve swapped. This would also be a great outing for pals!
Take An Online Cooking Class Together
Learning a skill together is a wonderful way to build on common interests. Your BPL card gives you access to free online courses through Kanopy’s The Great Courses collection including Mediterranean Cooking, Wine Tasting, and Spice Blends. Pick up some ingredients at the grocery store and learn alongside world-class chefs!
 Ryan explaining how a piece of software can be used to a women who visited the MakerSpace at the Library. Take A Step Back In Time
Flash back to a significant date in your relationship by browsing our collection of historic newspapers on microfilm. You can use our microfilm reader at Central Branch to view Burlington newspapers dating back to 1899! While you’re here, log on to Ancestry.com with our free in-branch membership and unearth your family history.
Make Something Special
Visit our MakerSpace at Central Branch to create a special Valentine’s gift together. You can print a favourite photo of the two of you using our large format printer or engrave it on a block of wood using our laser cutter. What about a puzzle piece keychain laser cut from acrylic to remind you both that you’re a perfect fit? Our MakerSpace operates on a cost-recovery model. Visit our MakerSpace web page to plan your project and book time to visit.
In February and beyond, the library has plenty of activities to enjoy without spending a dime. Come solo, with friends, or as a couple—you’re always welcome.
Related news story:
The MakerSpace
By Pepper Parr
February 6th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Here is what council voted on before they went home after a long, exhausting day.
It will go before Council on the 14th.
No roses in this Valentine gift.
By Pepper Parr
February 6th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
It took a bit of time but before they went home at very close to 10:00 pm, they did lower the tax increase to 7.52% – down from the 7.67%
Budget deliberations started at 7.08%
The upside is that they managed to get the whole thing done in a single day – they admittedly they got a little on the silly side in the last few hours.
There is a lot to comment on in this budget – we will leave that to another day.
By Pepper Parr
February 6th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
 Hang on to your hats – that budget number to a leap this time.
If everything that is being discussed gets past the increase could be 7.67% – up from the 7.08% they started with.
And it ain’t over yet.
By Pepper Parr
February 6th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
On the matter of that budget – It didn’t get any better.
 Council just could not stop the spending. At the mid afternoon break the budget that started out at 7.08%, wiggled up to 7.12 before lunch and kept on rising to 7.14%
As one listens to this council it becomes very clear that they have no interest in reducing the spending.
Ward 6 Councillor Angelo Bentivegna beavered away at cutting somewhere had no luck – none of his motions made any yardage.
And it’s not over yet.
They are going to take a break at 3:30 for a CLOSED session
 By Staff
February 6th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
City Hall would like residents to comment on the work of the three finalists who submitted proposals for art work that is to be part of the Mountainside Pool Revitalization Project Public Art mural.
 These comments will help the Steering Committee choose the final artist from the three finalists they selected.
Residents can go HERE until Monday, Feb. 20 to view and comment on the mural concepts.
The City of Burlington’s public art program is hiring a professional artist to paint a mural as part of this project. This revitalization will create a new attractive, fun and welcoming multi-use outdoor swimming pool.
Three artists have been shortlisted and have created preliminary design concepts for the public to review and offer comments. The community Steering Committee will evaluate the public feedback plus the technical proposal to select the winning artist.
To review the three proposed designs and submit feedback, residents can go to the project page.
The finalists
The three finalists for the Mountainside Pool Public Art mural are:
Artists: Clear Eyes Collective
Title: Take a Step
Artists: Jomae
Title: Currents
Artist: Megan Oldhues
Title: The Woodlot’s Edge Through our Children’s Lens
Submit Feedback
Once the three proposed artwork concepts have been reviewed, feedback may be submitted on one or all three designs using comment boxes. These comments, along with the technical and design proposals will inform the jury’s final selection.
By Pepper Parr
February 6th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
With Council just a bit over halfway through the Budget motions the projected 7.08 % increase moved up to 7.12 %
 Councillor Nisan returns to the Council Chamber. Councillor Bentivegna has 6 of the 15 motions under his name while Councillor Rory Nisan had 4 in his name.
We have to note that a fully masked Councillor Nisan has returned to the Council Chamber. We don’t believe he has been at a Council meeting since the start of the pandemic in 2020
 Finance Director Joan Ford told Council that she hoped the budget could be wrapped up in a single day to which Councillor Sharman gave a quick thumbs up.
The Budget meeting is being chaired by Councillor Kearns who is giving Councillor Bentivegna the roughest ride he has ever had in his five years as a Council member.
The to and the fro between senior staff and council members has been interesting – this council has shown that it wants to do things differently.
By Pepper Parr
February 6th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Council begins the hard part of crafting a budget. They have set aside three days to get the job done.
Today’s meeting will reconvene on Tuesday, February 7 and Thursday February 9, 2023, if required.
The objective is to:
Approve the 2023 Operating Budget including any budget amendments approved by the Corporate Services, Strategy, Risk and Accountability Committee to be applied against the proposed net tax levy amount of $217,352,545; and
Approve the 2023 Capital Budget for the City of Burlington, with a gross amount of $72,572,264 with a debenture requirement of $5,500,000, and the 2024-2032 capital forecast with a gross amount of $805,460,537 with a debenture requirement of $35,725,000 as outlined in a staff report and as amended by the Corporate Services, Strategy, Risk & Accountability Committee; and
Approve that if the actual net assessment growth is different than the estimated 0.60%, any increase in tax dollars generated from the City portion of assessment growth from the previous year be transferred to the Tax Rate Stabilization Reserve Fund or any decrease in tax dollars generated from the City portion of assessment growth from the previous year be funded from the Tax Rate Stabilization Reserve Fund; and
Administer the debenture in the amount of $5,500,000 in 2023 as tax supported debt; and
Declare that, in accordance with sis. 5(1)5 of the Development Charges Act, 1997 and s. 5 of Ontario Regulation 82/98, it is Council’s clear intention that the excess capacity provided by the above-referenced works will be paid for by future development charges.
At some point they will move into a CLOSED session in accordance with the Municipal Act, 2001 to discuss Confidential legal services department memo regarding contingency reserve fund projections
By Pepper Parr
February 6th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
How does a debate on continuing the Holiday Market that took place in 2021 and 2022 turn into a discussion about the Santa Claus Parade?
That was an easy question to answer.
The Holiday Market wasn’t exactly a raging success – weather had more to do with the event’s failure to get real lift off.
 Suddenly, everyone wants the Santa Claus parade in their ward. The Santa Claus parade has taken place for more than 45 years in Burlington. Organized by a citizens group that works out of the city’s Festivals and Events office it is the premier holiday event in the city. It looks as if it was Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns who came up with the idea that the Holiday Market could take place at the same time as the Santa Claus Parade – which is held a little earlier in December when the weather had in the past decade been warmer.
There were of course all kinds of details to be worked out but the idea was getting a decent reception from Council members – until we learned that there was a movement to hold the parade in ward 1 and then also in ward 6
No one saw that coming.
The City’s Festivals department is now going to have to work out just what they are going to do with the Santa parade in 2023.
 Santa had to get taken around in a fire truck during the worst of the pandemic. In 2021 and 2022 the parade amounted to a fire truck roaming through the streets of the city with a Santa in the jump seat waving away.
 Councillor Galbraith wants to see Santa tootling along Plains Road  Councillor Bentivegna wants to see Santa in ward 6. Hows that for delivering service to the residents? As the debate was moving along Councillor Galbraith said that “he and Councillor Bentivenga “ have been approached by the Santa Claus parade. Group and there may be a Santa Claus parade moving to ward one and potentially Ward six in future years.
“So you may want to put when the Santa Claus parade runs through the downtown as a slight amendment to this direction. Because I don’t think it will matter if it’s running down Plains Road when the Holiday Market is going to be scheduled.
“So, I’m just going to say no.
“I assume that this direction is to align those two when the Santa Claus parade is downtown. I assume that’s if it’s scheduled anywhere else it doesn’t really matter right ?
Kearns popped up with: “My understanding is that when material changes occur to a previously approved festival or event that those changes have to come before Council. And I think we could explore that at that time. But we can defer that question to the to the director of recreation, community and culture if you wish
 Councillor Paul Sharman brings up a possible force majeure Councillor Sharman then piped in with: “I just have a couple items of feedback. I’m totally on board here. So dealing with that previous question about the parade. I didn’t have that in mind. It could be going elsewhere. But I think we just need to, perhaps a suggestion for councillor Kearns to modify the word contingent.
Because what if there’s like a force majeure with Santa Claus parade one year and then we can’t have the Holiday Market because of this staff direction so how about just requesting alignment or expecting alignments with the annual Santa Claus parade and then if it should come to pass that the Santa Claus parade moves, then we’re still bulletproof there. So that would be my first suggestion to Councillor Kearns.”
You could see where this discussion was going; a force majeure for the Santa Claus parade?
A force majeure clause in a contract releases a party from fulfilling their contractual obligations when circumstances beyond their control impede them.
 By Pepper Parr
February 6th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Ontario created Family Day – an event in February of each year when the focus was on the kids and the family.
Some parents took their children to the office or the factory, others spent the day outdoors just having fun.
The Performing Arts Centre has made the day when performances that include Rock Bands for Kids, Illusion and Magic, and Glow in the Dark Puppetry. There is something for everyone!
The Family Fun event also marks the second half of the Performing Arts season. It is a season that is doing well after a couple of years of dark stages.
 They played at the White House twice – The Movers speaks to kids, not down to them Monday February 20, 2023 at 4:00pm Imagination Movers will take the stage for a rocking great time. This 75 minute show is perfect for ages 3-8 but will captivate the adults as well with their music inspired by bands such as U2, REM, and The Beastie Boys.
The Imagination Movers are often compared to the Wiggles, boasting four positive male role models for young children. The Movers speaks to kids, not down to them, and encourages life skills and values such as teamwork, respecting others, and creativity. In problem solving and brainstorming, children learn that no idea is a bad idea!
Imagination Movers have played at the White House twice for the annual Easter Egg Roll, have won a Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Original Song, have been nominated twice for a Daytime Emmy and are supporters of the Down Syndrome Society as National Buddy Walk Partners.
 Andy Griffiths was put on this earth to play music for children – not to be missed. Before the ticketed show begins, the BPAC Family Lobby will be full of fun and activities. Beginning at 2pm, join us for two FREE concerts by the amazingly talented, and local, Andy Griffiths who will perform at both 2pm and 3pm.
There will be a Photo Booth that parents and children can dress up in silly attire and take some memories home in photos! Do you feel like a pirate or a clown? Try out many hats (and boas and glasses and more) and have some fun as a family! Crafts and other activities will round out the afternoon.
Do you have plans to kick off March Break? The JASON BISHOP Show will be at BPAC on March 10th with two shows to entice the younger and older patrons alike. At 1:00pm, enjoy a slightly shorter show of illusion and intrigue. This education show is also open to the public and will be more appropriate for younger audiences. The evening show begins at 7:30pm and while this performance is family friendly will appeal more to older youth and adult audiences. This show is also longer in duration running 90 minutes.
Each performance of Jason Bishop’s exclusive grand illusions and elegant, agile sleight-of-hand magic are delivered with Bishop’s wry wit and engaging audience participation. From his stunning Double Levitation, new Hologram Illusion starring Gizmo the dog, to the astonishing close-up magic that is captured live and projected onto large projection screens, Jason gives the audience a clear view of very detail. Intelligent lighting together with countless costume changes by his skillful assistant Kim, make this an extraordinary theatrical experience.
 Jason Bishop – an extraordinary theatrical experience. Jason was handpicked by Live Nation to perform with Ke$ha, Matt & Kim, Paramore, Weezer, Drake and many other celebrities at multiple Bamboozle Festivals. He has traveled from LA to NYC, Mexico to Sweden and every US State and many countries in between. This tour brings Bishop to Canada and we are thrilled to be hosting him at BPAC.
A classic tale, reimagined, is brought to the stage on April 7, 2023 at 4:00pm (Good Friday) with Lightwire Theater: THE UGLY DUCKLING. This unforgettable theatrical experience is lined with electroluminescent wire and plays out on stage through a cutting-edge blend of puppetry, technology and dance. This performance that delivers dazzling visuals, moving choreography and a wide range of music from classical to pop, THE UGLY DUCKLING is brought into a new and brilliant light. This show is most suitable for ages 3-8 but will mesmerize audiences of all ages with it’s creativity and brilliance.
 This unforgettable theatrical experience is lined with electroluminescent wire and plays out on stage through a cutting-edge blend of puppetry, technology and dance. This performance that delivers dazzling visuals, moving choreography and a wide range of music from classical to pop. “Bringing family friendly and educational programming to Burlington is one of my greatest joys in developing our Season each year”, says Tammy Fox, Executive Director. “There is so much available to intrigue younger audiences and create new lovers of the arts in all genres from music and dance, to puppetry and even illusion. The BPAC Team is thrilled to engage our next generation of theatre-goers”.
Thank you to our gracious Sponsors, Mercedes-Benz Burlington (Season Sponsor), CIBC Wood Gundy (Family Day Sponsor), Gerry’s Roofing (The JASON BISHOP Show Sponsor) and Kelly Gleeson, CIBC Wood Gundy (Lightwire Theater, The Ugly Duckling Sponsor) for bringing these wonderful Family Friendly shows to our stage and our community this Season.
Performance times and ticket prices
Imagination Movers
Monday, February 20, 2023 at 4 p.m.
Main Theatre
Tickets can be purchased online or by telephone:
905-681-6000 | https://burlingtonpac.ca/events/imagination-movers/
Tickets: Regular $35 / Members $30
VIP Regular $50 / Members $45
(includes a post show meet and greet)
The JASON BISHOP Show
Friday, March 10, 2023 at 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Main Theatre
Tickets can be purchased online or by telephone:
905-681-6000 | https://burlingtonpac.ca/events/the-jason-bishop-show/
Tickets: Regular $59.50 / Members $54.50 (evening performance)
$20 (1 p.m.)
Livewire Theater: THE UGLY DUCKLING
Friday, April 7, 2023 at 4 p.m.
Good Friday!
Main Theatre
Tickets can be purchased online or by telephone:
905-681-6000 | https://burlingtonpac.ca/events/the-ugly-duckling/
Tickets: Regular $35 / Members $30
The full schedule of BPAC Presents events is available here:
 By Ray Rivers
February 5th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The provincial Liberal party is Ontario’s green party. The last decade and a half of Liberal rule from 2003 to 2018 were the greenest years in Ontario’s history.
In 2014 Ontario became one of the first jurisdictions anywhere to phase out its reliance on coal fired dirty electricity generation – the number one historical cause of global warming. That was also the single biggest reduction of carbon emissions in Canada, ever!
 Ontario became Canada’s leading jurisdiction in implementing clean passive solar and wind renewable energy. In its place Ontario became Canada’s leading jurisdiction in implementing clean passive solar and wind renewable energy. By the time they had been replaced as government, more than 92% of all the electricity in the province was being generated without using fossil fuels. Ontario led the rest of the country in wind capacity adding 5,060 MW of wind capacity between 2005 and 2019. And with 2,670 MW installed, Ontario had about 97% of Canada’s solar capacity in 2019,
The Liberals established an emissions trading regime to efficiently facilitate industrial carbon emission reductions and avoid the requirement for a carbon tax. They brought in powerful incentives for the purchase of electric vehicles (EV) and created the framework for an extensive network for EV charging across the province, including in apartments and condos. And the Liberals created the Greenbelt in 2005, the most extensive protective barrier to urban sprawl anywhere in the world.
It is questionable that the Greens or NDP could have practically done more to transition the province towards energy sustainability and on the path to reducing Ontario’s carbon footprint. In fact the changes the Liberals introduced so threatened the dyed-in-the-wool conservatives, those with vested interests in oil and gas, and the climate change deniers, that they were booted out by the elect-Doug-Ford dinosaurs.
For those that read my columns leading up to the last provincial election you’d remember that Mike Schreiner won the debates hands down. He hit the points the Liberal and NDP leaders only slept through, and took Ford to task, not only on his environmental policies but health care failures as well. So he is not only a good leader for the Greens but, if debates mean anything, would probably be a great leader for Ontario as well.
 Change the colour of tat sign to red – and it will do just fine in the next provincial election. Hasn’t anyone in the Green Party woken up to reality and smelt the coffee. In last June’s election, that party scored only 6% of the vote, whereas the Libs and Dippers split the rest (about 25% each) of the non-Ford vote, allowing Ford a free pass to a four year virtual dictatorship. The Green Party is acting like the Ralph Nader of Ontario politics. Left of centre Nader stole enough votes from Gore to help Bush steal the presidency in 2000.
There was a letter from some 40 prominent Liberals inviting Schreiner to come over and lead their party. In response some 75 Greens penned a response saying that the Libs should join them Greens. It’s a brilliant idea. As someone famous once said, ‘a rose by another name would smell as sweet’.
So call it the Liberal Greens or the Green Libs or whatever, but get your collective act together and stop Doug Ford before he does even more damage to this province than he already has. If you love this province, that is.
 Ray Rivers, a Gazette Contributing Editor, writes regularly applying his more than 25 years as a federal bureaucrat to his thinking. Rivers was once a candidate for provincial office in Burlington. He was the founder of the Burlington citizen committee on sustainability at a time when climate warming was a hotly debated subject. Ray has a post graduate degree in economics that he earned at the University of Ottawa. Tweet @rayzrivers
Background links:
Family doctors
Those gas plants
Greens think Liberals are trying to steal their leader
National Post thinks pursuit of green party leader is a new low for Ontario Liberals
Eight reason why Schreiner is a good fit for the Liberals
Ford for got what he learned when he was a municipal councillor
By Staff
February 5th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
 Leisa Way as Dolly Parton in the RHINESTONE COWGIRL. There are some shows that attract good audiences because they are fun to watch. They keep your toes tapping and you leave feeling glad that you attended.
Leisa Way created the RHINESTONE COWGIRL, her tribute to Dolly Parton – you will leave the theatre smiling
Much loved for her spectacular Patsy Cline concerts, Leisa Way literally erupts onto the stage in a flurry of feathers, fringe and bejewelled finery.
The one-liners and commentaries that Way delivers throughout the tribute are entertaining and hilarious. However the real magic lies in hearing Way sing Dolly’s songs.
Backed up by a terrifically talented band, Way performs hits from every era of Parton’s career including “9-5”, “I Will Always Love You”, “Two Doors Down”, “Coat of Many Colours”, “Jolene”, “Here You Come Again”, “Islands in the Stream” and “Why’d You Come in Here Looking Like That?”.
This fabulous concert is designed to leave audiences amazed, hugely entertained and clamouring for more. What a band, what a concert, what a lady! This concert has played at over 50 theatres across Canada.
 A fabulous concert is designed to leave audiences amazed, hugely entertained and clamouring for more. Leisa Way stars in her own production with Fred Smith & Nathan Smith (Kenny Rogers & Porter Wagoner)
Dates and times:
Thu Feb 23, 2023 at 7:30pm
Fri Feb 24, 2023 at 7:30pm
Sat Feb 25, 2023 at 2pm & 7:30pm
Sun Feb 26, 2023 at 4pm
Venue: Community Studio Theatre
Ticket Prices
Regular: $49.50 (All-in)
Member: $44.50 (All-in)
Telephone: 905-681-6000
Email: bpacboxoffice@burlington.ca
Keep up to date on what is scheduled CLICK HERE
 Pepper Parr
February 5th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
It was George Armstrong, Captain of the Toronto Maple Leaf hockey team (they called it a club in those days) who scored the winning goal and accepted the Stanley Cup on behalf of his team mates
 George Armstrong, Captain of the 1967 Toronto Maple Leaf hockey team The sixth game in the playoff series against the Montreal Canadiens was a thriller after which Frank Selke, who went on to become a General Manager of both the Maple Leafs and the Canadiens, said it will be a long time before people see a game like that again. Little did Selke know just how long that would be. Toronto hasn’t won a Stanley Cup since that marvellous win in 1967
In accepting the Stanley Cup Armstrong said when asked if he ever had doubts about winning, “You have to have confidence and we believed we could win, even if we had to go back to Montreal for the final game”.
Announcements made before or after a hockey game are big productions today. They were a lot different in 1967.
Today NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly said when announcing that Toronto would be the l0cation of the 2024 All Star hockey game. “Toronto is the centre of the hockey universe” There’s so many things that we can do in Toronto to celebrate the Annual All Star
The Leafs held the inaugural NHL All-Star game in 1933, a fundraiser for injured star Ace Bailey that pitted the Stanley Cup champion Leafs against an assembly of the best players in the rest of the league.
Similar fundraisers were held in ensuing years until the All-Star Game itself was institutionalized in the 1947-48 season. Maple Leaf Gardens held the event seven times and the Scotiabank Arena – back when it was called Air Canada Centre – held it once in 2000, when the format pitted all-stars from North America against players from Europe.
“We haven’t had an all-star event (in Toronto) since 2000,” said Daly. “Obviously, the league’s grown a lot since, and they’ve expressed an interest over the last number of years. It’s their turn.”
The Leafs are on a blazing winning streak this year and will play in the finals – but that 5-2 loss to Boston last week reminds people that while Montreal is always a challenge – Boston often turns out to be an even bigger challenge.
 By Staff
February 4th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The state of the health system and access to good hospital care is a concern for many.
The Ontario Health Coalition: Halton is holding a Town Hall meeting Wednesday, February 22nd at 7 pm.
The meeting will address ways to Stop the Privatization of Hospitals in Ontario.
Do take part. Register to attend the online event.
 By Pepper Parr
February 4th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
A group of about 40 people who belonged to the Liberal party , sent a letter to Mike Schreiner, Green Party member of the Legislature inviting him to run for the leadership of the Liberal party that is now down to eight members sitting in the Legislature.
 Mike Schreiner on the campaign trail Schreiner at first said he had not seen the letter and later said that he needed some time before accepting the invitation. He wanted to talk to his party members. Oh to be a fly on the wall where those conversations took place.
The provincial Greens and Liberals are now in a state of excited frenzy: the Greens are saying if you want Mike as your leader join us.
The Liberals are saying that there are more things that both parties agree on than they disagree on and that the province would be a better place if they had a leader like Mike who would attract the voters the Liberals badly need.
There are some that claim sending a letter to Schreiner dissed the four people who have already declared themselves as leadership candidates that will run for the Liberal leadership.
The Liberals, both federally and provincially have always poached the best that the socialists had and are now quite prepared to do the same thing to the Greens.
Jagmeet Singh, federal New Democrat leader, is keeping the Liberals in office and at the same time getting new programs for Canadians that the Liberals talk about but never quite deliver on.
Back in 1970 Pauline Jewett, a federal Liberal until Pierre Trudeau brought in the War Measures Act became a New Democrat that the Liberals always hoped they could coax back into the party. They didn’t know the real Pauline Jewett; a woman of strong views and stronger convictions. Not the first feminist the country has seen but a woman who made a real and lasting difference.
Doug Fisher, an MP for eight years who went on to become a celebrated journalist and columnist for the Toronto Telegram and then the Toronto Sun, knew more about Canadian politics than many other members of the House of Commons. He was always near or part of conversations about merging the New Democrats with the Liberals federally.
 “I chose to lead the Green Party of Ontario because we do politics differently. We are committed to honesty, integrity and making decisions that put people first.” Didn’t happen back then and probably won’t happen with the Greens either. Because politics is and always will be about power and what you can do with it – the provincial Liberals might convince themselves that Mike is their man. What the Liberal party approach to government would do to the heart and soul of Mike Schreiner is an interesting question.
The Greens love him – they should, he is the only person who managed to win an election as a Green candidate. Some members of the Green party have said they would hate to lose Mike but if he runs as a Liberal and loses – they will take him back as a Green. That is certainly showing the love.
The provincial Liberals meet in Hamilton early in March for their AGM – that’s when they will set out the date and rules for choosing the next leader. If Mike runs it may well be a coronation – recall what happened to John Turner when he returned to politics.
Schreiner once said: “I chose to lead the Green Party of Ontario because we do politics differently. We are committed to honesty, integrity and making decisions that put people first.”
Had do you decide to run for the Liberal leadership and walk back a statement like that?
Salt with Pepper is the musings, reflections and opinions of the publisher of the Burlington Gazette, an online newspaper that was formed in 2010 and is a member of the National Newsmedia Council.
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