 By Pepper Parr
October 23, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
With his campaign team in place Oliver Parker is working towards his target of knocking on every door in the Burlington constituency. He has covered more than 200 when we talked to him last.
More about Oliver, who is a full-time federal civil servant working out of his home in Burlington and reporting to a team that is located in Hamilton – he reports to that team three times a week.
The federal Department he works for is located Gatineau, across from Ottawa.
He is a part-time student at Queen’s University in Belfast.
He is what might be described as a Labour Economist who deals with policy matters.
 Oliver Parker – seeking the Burlington Liberal nomination. Oliver reports that he has been fully vetted by the provincial Liberal Party, which means he has paid the $3000 fee to enter the race for the Burlington nomination.
At this point, there are two candidates seeking the nomination.
The current MPP for Burlington, Natalie Pierre, has announced that she will not seek re-election. The Progressive Conservatives then are looking for a candidate.
The public wants to know what a potential candidate stands for – what are their core values?
Oliver Parker is holding an event at the Black Bull on November 4th from 7:00 to 9:00 pm – if you want to meet him, hear what he has to say and ask questions – the Black Bull is at 2475 Mountainside Dr.
 By Staff
October 23rd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Here is what Burlington MP Karina Gould had to say in the House of Commons yesterday.
October 22nd, 2:55 p.m.
Innovation, Science and Industry
 Burlington MP Karina Gould speaking in the House of Commons Mr. Speaker, Canadians expect police to follow due process. Let me be perfectly clear: The government obviously complies with anything that follows due process. Canadians also expect their leaders to act in the best interest of Canadians, not to protect their own partisan interests.
Why is that member, and all members of the Conservative Party, covering up for the Leader of the Opposition, who is refusing to get his security clearance? It is easy to get. All the other members have done it. When will the Leader of the Opposition get it?
Mr. Speaker, the member gets up every day and says things that are simply not true. What he will not answer is why his leader is refusing to get a security clearance. That is the real question on every Canadian’s mind right now.
While we are facing a time when we have to put the country first and stand up for Canadians, the Leader of the Opposition is hiding something from Canadians. What is it, and why is it stopping him from getting his security clearance?
October 22nd, 3 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, once again, it is disappointing that the Conservatives are not telling the truth on this issue.
What is even more appalling and what Canadians are wondering is why the Leader of the Opposition is not getting his security clearance. Is it because he has something to hide? Why is he refusing to get his security clearance? He must have something to hide, because it is so easy to get it.
Mr. Speaker, I expect my hon. colleague on the other side to at least be honest with the facts. What was said was that this motion was highly unusual and it should be referred to committee for study. We support that. It is only the Conservatives who are obstructing their own obstruction. This is unsurprising because they are also trying to cover up their own leader’s refusal to get his security clearance.
All of the other leaders of the political parties in the House have done that. Canadians want to know why. What is he hiding, and what is he trying to protect?
Gould never did get an answer – but it wasn’t because she didn’t try.
 By Jim Portside
October 23, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The five stocks with the largest dollar value of insider acquisitions in the public market are:
|
| Condor Energies Inc —–Buy Quantity: 100,000 Average cost: $2.19 Total: $218,900.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| EurAsia Resource Value SE |
3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-18-24 |
50,000 |
$2.21 |
$110,475.00 |
| EurAsia Resource Value SE |
3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-17-24 |
50,000 |
$2.17 |
$108,425.00 |
|
| Aisix Solutions Inc —–Buy Quantity: 4,200,000 Average cost: $0.03 Total: $126,000.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Belantis, Mihalis |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-22-24 |
100,000 |
$0.03 |
$3,000.00 |
| Belantis, Mihalis |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-16-24 |
4,100,000 |
$0.03 |
$123,000.00 |
|
| Thunderbird Entertainment Group Inc —–Buy Quantity: 50,000 Average cost: $1.80 Total: $89,990.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Lazzarato, David Angelo |
4 – Director of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-21-24 |
50,000 |
$1.80 |
$89,990.00 |
|
| GFG Resources Inc —–Buy Quantity: 322,500 Average cost: $0.17 Total: $54,202.50 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Carlson, Anders |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-21-24 |
122,500 |
$0.17 |
$21,202.50 |
| Carlson, Anders |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-18-24 |
200,000 |
$0.16 |
$33,000.00 |
|
| Millennial Potash Corp. (formerly Black Mountain Gold USA Corp.) —–Buy Quantity: 144,000 Average cost: $0.28 Total: $40,320.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Jennings, Ross |
3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-21-24 |
144,000 |
$0.28 |
$40,320.00 |
The five stocks with the largest dollar value of insider dispositions in the public market are:
|
| Lavras Gold Corp —–Sell Quantity: -800,000 Average cost: $2.55 Total: -$2,040,000.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| 2176423 Ontario Ltd. |
3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-18-24 |
-400,000 |
$2.55 |
-$1,020,000.00 |
| Sprott, Eric |
3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-18-24 |
-400,000 |
$2.55 |
-$1,020,000.00 |
|
| Sierra Metals Inc. (formerly Dia Bras Exploration Inc.) —–Sell Quantity: -260,000 Average cost: $0.88 Total: -$229,901.46 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Arias, J. Alberto |
6 – Director or Senior Officer of 10% Security Holder |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-17-24 |
-43,500 |
$0.86 |
-$37,255.96 |
| Arias, J. Alberto |
6 – Director or Senior Officer of 10% Security Holder |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-18-24 |
-16,500 |
$0.85 |
-$14,040.32 |
| Arias, J. Alberto |
6 – Director or Senior Officer of 10% Security Holder |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-21-24 |
-100,000 |
$0.88 |
-$88,106.73 |
| Arias, J. Alberto |
6 – Director or Senior Officer of 10% Security Holder |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-22-24 |
-100,000 |
$0.90 |
-$90,498.45 |
|
| Seabridge Gold Inc —–Sell Quantity: -5,000 Average cost: $25.08 Total: -$125,392.75 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Murphy, Robert Brent |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-18-24 |
-5,000 |
$25.08 |
-$125,392.75 |
|
| Platinum Group Metals Ltd —–Sell Quantity: -34,842 Average cost: $2.40 Total: -$83,660.80 Options Issued: 20,000 Average cost: $1.81 Total: $36,200.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Engelbrecht, Schalk Willem Burger |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-18-24 |
-34,842 |
$2.40 |
-$83,660.80 |
| Engelbrecht, Schalk Willem Burger |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
51 – Exercise of options |
10-21-24 |
20,000 |
$1.81 |
$36,200.00 |
|
| Exco Technologies Limited —–Sell Quantity: -6,300 Average cost: $8.50 Total: -$53,550.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Riganelli, Paul |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-21-24 |
-6,300 |
$8.50 |
-$53,550.00 |
 By Natalis Buriy
October 22nd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Microneedling has become increasingly popular in recent years and is a non-invasive procedure that uses a micro-needle to address minor skin concerns such as skin laxity, wrinkles, fine lines, scarring, acne breakouts, stretch marks, and dull skin tone. Microneedling makes tiny punctures or microtraumas in the skin that trigger the skin’s natural regeneration mechanisms and the production of collagen and elastin.
 Microneedling: A procedure aimed at improving the appearance of the skin and its rejuvenation. Through the microchannels formed from this procedure, various nutritious active substances found in cosmetology preparations, which are applied to the skin before the procedure, are delivered to the dermis. This procedure is aimed at improving the appearance of the skin and its rejuvenation. Although this procedure is popular, people have some concerns. A fairly common question that arises among a wide range of potential patients is whether microneedling is painful. If you’re looking for the best microneedling in Vancouver, be sure to check out the top-rated clinics that offer advanced techniques and expert care. This article will detail the pain factor associated with microneedling, and what you can expect during treatment and aftercare to achieve the best possible results.
Understanding the micro-needling procedure and its key benefits
Microneedling, as mentioned above, involves the use of a device with thin needles that create microtrauma on the surface of the skin. This process stimulates the body’s natural repair response, prompting the production of collagen and elastin, two valuable proteins that help maintain skin elasticity and firmness. This procedure offers numerous and undeniable advantages, including:
 By actively promoting collagen production, microneedles can make the skin smoother;- Microneedling allows you to reduce scars, acne, and other types of scars on your skin;
- Comprehensive treatment can help reduce the appearance of aging;
- Improved absorption of skin care products. Microneedling creates microchannels that can increase the effectiveness of spa treatments.
Microneedling is actively used on the scalp to improve hair quality and accelerate growth. It should be noted that the speed of hair growth, as well as its general condition, directly depends on the health of the scalp. For the hair to grow thicker, shed less, and be more active, you need to regularly massage the scalp. At the same time, microneedling of hair helps to accelerate the blood circulation of the scalp. Due to the active regenerative capacity of the skin after the microneedling procedure, this procedure is also used to remove scars and scars.
Is microneedling painful?
One of the most pressing concerns for those considering microneedling is the possibility of various pain sensations during this procedure. Tolerance to pain sensations is different, this feeling is individual for each person, but it is worth noting that most patients report that the discomfort during this procedure is acceptable, it can be completely overcome. The sensations that occur during microneedling can be compared to light scratches or the sensation of rubbing the skin with sandpaper.
What factors influence the pain sensation during the microneedling procedure?
Let’s consider several key factors that can affect pain during treatment:
- Deeper penetration may lead to increased discomfort. Different skin conditions may require different depths;
- Various sensitive areas, such as around the eyes or mouth, may feel more painful during micro-needling compared to other areas of the skin;
- Each person’s pain tolerance is different, meaning some people may experience more discomfort than others.
What to expect during a microneedling session?
 Skin tightening There are several important steps you should take before your microneedling session. First of all, you should have a comprehensive consultation with your doctor. He will assess your skin type, discuss your current goals with you, and determine if microneedling is the right treatment for you. For a few days before the procedure, it is advisable to avoid retinoids, exfoliants, and other active ingredients that can irritate the skin. Before the procedure, make sure your skin is well hydrated to improve results and minimize discomfort.
What happens after the microneedling procedure?
After treatment, you may notice some immediate effects, including redness, which will last from a few hours to a few days. Some swelling may occur, especially if a deeper injection is performed. Your skin may be sensitive to touch for a short period. To ensure proper healing and optimal results, it is important to follow specific care instructions, including avoiding sun exposure for at least a week after the procedure, avoiding makeup for the first 24 hours after the procedure to allow the skin to breathe and heal, not using any aggressive scrubs or exfoliants for several days. The skin should be kept hydrated with a good moisturizer. Look for fragrance-free products. Avoid saunas, hot baths, and vigorous exercise after microneedling, as they can increase redness and cause unnecessary irritation.
Potential side effects and risks that may occur after microneedling
The microneedling procedure is considered safe, but there are some potential side effects and risks to be aware of. Some patients may experience bruising, especially if the needles penetrate deep. There is a risk of infection. It is important to follow the care instructions to minimize this risk. In people with a darker skin tone, there is a risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Summarizing all of the above
 Microneedling can be compared to light scratches or the sensation of rubbing the skin with sandpaper. Microneedling is an effective antiaging procedure that helps fight many skin imperfections. This procedure can be used on the face, body, and scalp. During the procedure, the skin is treated with a special tool that leaves numerous small punctures in the upper layer of the epidermis.
Controlled microdamage of the skin stimulates the natural process of tissue regeneration, which leads to the active production of collagen and elastin in the cells. These substances are responsible for the youth and beauty of our skin, making it elastic and elastic. Over time, the amount of collagen and elastin in the skin decreases, and wrinkles appear on the surface of the skin.
In addition to improving the production of collagen and elastin, the microneedling procedure also improves the absorption of nutrients by the skin, which is why various microneedling cocktails are actively used during the procedure. Using this allows you to significantly improve the effect of the procedure and solve certain skin problems, for example: reducing pigmentation or eliminating post-acne. Topaz Facial Studio is renowned for its personalized skincare treatments and innovative approaches to facial rejuvenation.
By carefully following all pre-treatment and post-treatment care instructions, you can maximize the key benefits of microneedling and enjoy rejuvenated, healthier skin. As with any cosmetic procedure, it is important to consult with a qualified practitioner to ensure that microneedling is right for you, and to discuss any concerns about pain or side effects in detail beforehand. With proper care, this treatment will result in a lasting improvement in the appearance and texture of your skin.
 By Staff
October 22, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Justin Cloutier , head coach for the Burlington Barracudas U18AA Head Coach reports that over the past couple weeks, the U18AA team has been selling raffle tickets with all proceeds being donated to the Canadian Cancer Society (breast cancer awareness and research)
 “On the weekend we had are pink in the rink game, we had a great crowd, we fell short in the win column but we won as team raising over $6000 towards cancer research.
“I’m extremely proud of this group of young ladies and how they are supporting breast cancer awareness and girls hockey as well.”
 By Lewis Marley
October 22nd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Ontario is embarking on an ambitious plan to modernize Niagara Falls, transforming the region into a world-class tourist destination that goes beyond its iconic waterfalls. Under Premier Doug Ford’s leadership, the strategy aims to diversify attractions, foster economic growth, and enhance hospitality services.
 That rainbow is always on display The plan includes new developments, entertainment venues, family-friendly attractions, and an overhaul of Ontario’s gaming sector. This vision intends to reshape the experience for both local and international visitors, ensuring Niagara Falls remains a competitive and modern destination.
Diversifying Attractions in Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls has long been known for its breathtaking waterfalls, but Ontario’s government is determined to expand its appeal by introducing new attractions. The focus is on transforming the area into a year-round destination that offers more than natural beauty. These new attractions will include cultural centers, immersive experiences, and cutting-edge entertainment venues, ensuring that visitors from all over the world have a diverse array of activities to enjoy.
One key element of the plan is creating more family-friendly attractions that will appeal to visitors of all ages. This includes building theme parks, interactive museums, and recreational centers that can cater to families looking for a fun and educational experience. Premier Doug Ford sees this as an opportunity to make Niagara Falls more inclusive, ensuring that it becomes a destination for families year-round, even beyond the peak tourist seasons.
Premier Doug Ford’s Leadership in Modernizing Niagara Falls
 A tunnel at the base of the falls – you get to it by taking an elevator from the top of the falls right to the water’s edge. Premier Doug Ford is playing a critical role in pushing forward the modernization efforts for Niagara Falls. His administration is dedicated to driving economic growth in Ontario by turning Niagara Falls into a top-tier tourist destination that attracts international visitors while providing sustainable local benefits.
Ford’s leadership involves making strategic investments in infrastructure, technology, and partnerships that align with the broader vision for the province’s economic development.
Doug Ford’s modernization plan includes significant investments in infrastructure, ranging from transportation to new public spaces. This includes improving roads, rail systems, and public transport connections to make Niagara Falls more accessible for tourists. Furthermore, the expansion of public parks, waterfront areas, and eco-friendly initiatives are all part of Ford’s effort to make the city more appealing and sustainable.
Economic Growth Through Tourism Development
The heart of Ontario’s plan is the potential for economic growth through tourism. Niagara Falls is already a major contributor to the province’s economy, but the government aims to maximize this potential through diversification and modernization. By introducing new entertainment venues and commercial developments, the region will attract higher spending from tourists, directly benefiting local businesses and boosting job creation.
With the expansion of tourism, entertainment venues, and hospitality services, thousands of new jobs are expected to be created in Niagara Falls. These jobs will span across multiple sectors, including construction, event management, hospitality, and retail. The government’s investment is geared toward building a workforce that can support the growing tourism industry while ensuring that locals benefit from the increased economic activity.
Integrating Physical and Online Entertainment Experiences
Ontario is also focusing on integrating physical and online entertainment experiences as part of Niagara Falls’ modernization. The province is exploring the potential of combining traditional physical entertainment, such as concerts and events, with virtual and online platforms. This strategy is expected to cater to a broader range of visitors, including tech-savvy travelers and younger audiences who seek interactive experiences.
One major part of this integration is the province’s renegotiation of gaming agreements to foster competition in the entertainment space. By blending physical and online gaming options, Ontario aims to create unique experiences that draw visitors both in-person and online. Casinos and entertainment venues in the area are expected to adopt digital innovations to enhance customer experiences, keeping Niagara Falls at the forefront of modern entertainment trends.
Renegotiating Gaming Agreements to Enhance Competition
Ontario’s modernization strategy includes renegotiating the province’s gaming agreements to increase competition in the sector. This effort is designed to ensure that Niagara Falls remains a top gaming destination in Canada by introducing new operators and encouraging innovation. The revised agreements will allow for more competitive offerings in both physical and online gaming, further integrating the city into the global entertainment market.
Additionally, some of the best-paying online casino platforms in Ontario have expressed interest in sponsoring events and festivals that can attract international visitors. These sponsorships are expected to provide a major boost to the local economy, funding high-profile events that will draw even more tourists to the region.
Building New Entertainment Venues and Event Spaces
 Loads of things to do while at Niagara Falls To complement the modernization of Niagara Falls, Ontario plans to develop state-of-the-art entertainment venues and event spaces. These venues will cater to a wide variety of events, from concerts and theater performances to international conferences and festivals. The goal is to create a vibrant cultural scene in Niagara Falls that will attract visitors from all over the world, beyond the traditional waterfall tourism.
The introduction of large-scale festivals and international events is another pillar of Ontario’s strategy to transform Niagara Falls. The government is working to secure partnerships with global event organizers, bringing world-class festivals, concerts, and exhibitions to the area. These events will not only drive tourism but also position Niagara Falls as a cultural hub that offers rich and diverse experiences year-round.
Expanding Hospitality Services and Accommodations
In tandem with the development of entertainment venues, Ontario’s plan also includes the expansion of hospitality services and accommodations. The goal is to increase the capacity of hotels and resorts to handle the growing number of tourists expected to visit the region. This involves constructing new hotels and upgrading existing properties to meet the demands of luxury travelers, business visitors, and family vacationers alike.
Part of this expansion includes the development of luxury hotels and boutique accommodations that cater to high-end tourists. These hotels will offer premium services, including fine dining, spa experiences, and exclusive access to local attractions. This addition is expected to significantly enhance Niagara Falls’ reputation as a world-class destination for travelers looking for upscale experiences.
Enhancing Accessibility and Sustainability
Ontario’s modernization plan emphasizes both accessibility and sustainability in all new developments. The province is committed to ensuring that Niagara Falls is accessible to everyone, including those with mobility challenges. Furthermore, the government is prioritizing eco-friendly initiatives that aim to protect the region’s natural beauty while supporting sustainable growth.
The development of eco-friendly transportation options is a key component of making Niagara Falls more sustainable. Ontario is investing in electric buses, bike-sharing programs, and pedestrian-friendly pathways to reduce the carbon footprint of tourists visiting the area. These green initiatives are designed to preserve the environment while offering convenient ways for visitors to explore the city.
Long-Term Vision for Niagara Falls
 There is something magnetic about Niagara Falls – people gather to take in the magnificence of the water and enjoy the many entertaining things to do. Ontario’s long-term vision for Niagara Falls is rooted in the idea of creating a global tourist destination that offers something for everyone. From eco-tourism and family-friendly attractions to high-end luxury experiences and cutting-edge entertainment, the plan is to diversify the appeal of Niagara Falls for both domestic and international tourists.
The overarching goal is to position Niagara Falls as one of the leading tourist destinations in the world. By expanding its offerings and modernizing the city’s infrastructure, Ontario aims to compete with other global tourist hotspots like Las Vegas, Paris, and Dubai. Niagara Falls’ unique combination of natural beauty, modern entertainment, and diverse attractions will serve as the foundation for its future success.
Ontario’s Path Forward for Niagara Falls
Ontario’s ambitious plan to modernize Niagara Falls marks a new era for the region, blending tradition with innovation to create a truly global tourist destination. Premier Doug Ford’s leadership, strategic investments in infrastructure, and focus on diversifying attractions all point toward a brighter future for Niagara Falls.
The region’s transformation will not only enhance its appeal to tourists but also boost economic growth, create jobs, and elevate Ontario‘s standing on the world stage. Through partnerships with the gaming industry and international event organizers, Niagara Falls is set to become a vibrant hub for entertainment, culture, and tourism for years to come.
By Rupert Walters
October 22, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The NFL draft has evolved into a global event, showcasing talented players from countries beyond the United States. Canada has emerged as a significant source of talent, producing notable players such as Jevon Holland, Josh Palmer, Benjamin St-Juste, Matthew Bergeron, and John Metchie III.
The upcoming 2024 NFL Draft is anticipated to further expand this trend, with many Canadian prospects projected to be selected.
 NFL draft choices – Theo Johnson, Te, Penn State
 Theo Johnson, Te, Theo Johnson emerged as a reliable pass-catching option at Penn State, accumulating 77 receptions for 938 yards and 12 touchdowns over four seasons. Hailing from Windsor, Ontario, he was regarded as the top Canadian prospect in the 2020 recruiting class and lived up to expectations throughout his college career.
Johnson’s pre-draft profile improved as he showcased his skills alongside the most athletic testers at the NFL Combine. Among participating tight ends, he excelled, ranking first in the shuttle (4.19) and placing second in the 40-yard dash (4.57), vertical jump (39.5 inches), and broad jump (10-foot-5). His performance positioned him as a likely top-100 selection in the draft.
Isaiah Adams, Ol, Illinois
 Isaiah Adams initially played in Canada at Wilfrid Laurier University. In contrast to most Canadian prospects, Isaiah Adams initially played college football in Canada at Wilfrid Laurier University before transferring to Garden City Community College and, eventually, Illinois. During his time at Illinois, Adams demonstrated versatility by playing tackle and guard.
Adams excelled at tackle and guard positions throughout his two-year stint at Illinois. Although his nearly 34-inch arms are ideal for playing tackle, his strength and ability to overpower defenders in the running game make him better suited for guard. Adams, a native of Ajax, Ontario, is considered an underrated prospect who can seamlessly fit in at either left or right guard.
Anim Dankwah, Ot, Howard
 Anim Dankwah: He stands out with impressive measurements, including a height (nearly 6-8), weight (353 pounds), wingspan (85.5 inches), and arm length (35 1/8 inches) Anim Dankwah possesses the blend of size, length, and strength that NFL teams highly value in a developing offensive tackle prospect. He stands out with impressive measurements, including a height in the 91st percentile (nearly 6-8), weight in the 97th percentile (353 pounds), wingspan in the 94th percentile (85.5 inches), and arm length in the 82nd percentile (35 1/8 inches), as per MockDraftable. It’s rare to find NFL prospects with such imposing physical attributes.
Dankwah played for five seasons at Howard University in Washington, D.C., participating in 39 games. As a three-year starter at left tackle, he has gained valuable experience leading up to the 2024 NFL Draft. Dankwah’s performance peaked in the recent season, allowing a career-low 11 pressures in 2023.
Moreover, betting fans can check the transfer odds at Sports Interaction Canada. They can also engage by placing wagers on the expected transfers.
Qwan’tez Stiggers, Cb, Toronto Argonauts
 Earning a spot with the Toronto Argonauts in the Canadian Football League. His impressive performance for the Argonauts, including starting all 16 games, notching 53 tackles, and five interceptions, culminated in him being named the CFL’s Most Outstanding Rookie for the 2023 season. Despite being born in Atlanta, Georgia, Stiggers has perhaps the most remarkable story of any prospect in the 2024 NFL Draft. In 2020, he was slated to play college football at Lane College, an HBCU program, but tragedy derailed his plans.
Following his father’s passing in a single-vehicle accident, Stiggers was forced to leave school prematurely. Unfortunately, he never had the opportunity to play college football as the season was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Subsequently, Stiggers joined the Fan-Controlled Football League, an indoor 7-on-7 format, before earning a spot with the Toronto Argonauts in the Canadian Football League (CFL). His impressive performance for the Argonauts, including starting all 16 games, notching 53 tackles, and five interceptions, culminated in him being named the CFL’s Most Outstanding Rookie for the 2023 season.
Stiggers continued his improbable journey to the 2024 NFL Draft by turning heads at the East-West Shrine Bowl. With more than 10 pre-draft visits, he has garnered significant interest from NFL teams.
Although Stiggers is not Canadian by birth, Canada has played a crucial role in his football journey. Although he never played college football, his draft selection will mark a historic moment in his career.
Tanner Mclachlan, Te, Arizona
 Wildcats’ all-time leading receiver among tight ends. Tanner McLachlan showcased his skills as a formidable pass-catching option during his time at Arizona, where he amassed 79 receptions for 984 yards and six touchdowns over two seasons. His performance made him the Wildcats’ all-time leading receiver among tight ends. McLachlan’s journey to Arizona, where he walked on from Southern Utah, demonstrated his ability to compete at a higher level.
At the NFL Combine, McLachlan caught the attention of scouts with a 4.61-second 40-yard dash and a 35-inch vertical jump. Hailing from Lethbridge, Alberta, he is viewed as a tight end capable of stretching the seam, with the versatility to line up attached to the line of scrimmage as the “Y” or play in space as a modern “F” tight end.
Final Thoughts
The NFL draft has evolved into a global event, showcasing talents from beyond the United States, with Canada emerging as a notable source. The upcoming 2024 draft is expected to continue this trend, with Canadian prospects like Theo Johnson, Isaiah Adams, Anim Dankwah, Qwan’tez Stiggers, and Tanner McLachlan demonstrating the country’s depth and diversity of talent.
 The NFL Draft – a global event.
By Jim Portside
October 22, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Understanding Insider Trading
The five stocks with the largest dollar value of insider acquisitions in the public market are:
|
| Millennial Potash Corp. (formerly Black Mountain Gold USA Corp.) —–Buy Quantity: 798,500 Average cost: $0.29 Total: $230,645.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Jennings, Ross |
3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-18-24 |
706,500 |
$0.29 |
$204,885.00 |
| Jennings, Ross |
3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-17-24 |
92,000 |
$0.28 |
$25,760.00 |
|
| Asante Gold Corporation —–Buy Quantity: 112,200 Average cost: $1.39 Total: $155,868.24 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Easah, Malik Mohammed |
4 – Director of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-18-24 |
112,200 |
$1.39 |
$155,868.24 |
|
| NGEx Minerals Ltd —–Buy Quantity: 12,900 Average cost: $11.56 Total: $149,124.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Lundin, Adam Ian |
4 – Director of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-17-24 |
12,900 |
$11.56 |
$149,124.00 |
|
| Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust —–Buy Quantity: 20,100 Average cost: $5.79 Total: $116,429.25 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Morguard Corporation |
3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-18-24 |
20,100 |
$5.79 |
$116,429.25 |
|
| Lavras Gold Corp —–Buy Quantity: 39,900 Average cost: $2.59 Total: $103,341.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Raykov, Rostislav Christov |
4 – Director of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-16-24 |
39,900 |
$2.59 |
$103,341.00 |
The five stocks with the largest dollar value of insider dispositions in the public market are:
|
| The Real Brokerage Inc —–Sell Quantity: -83,333 Average cost: $7.14 Total: -$594,704.48 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Gamzu, Guy |
3 – 10% Security Holder of Issuer, 4 – Director of Issuer, 6 – Director or Senior Officer of 10% Security Holder |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-18-24 |
-83,333 |
$7.14 |
-$594,704.48 |
|
| Standard Lithium Ltd —–Sell Quantity: -50,000 Average cost: $2.81 Total: -$140,500.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Cross, Robert Melvin Douglas |
4 – Director of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-16-24 |
-50,000 |
$2.81 |
-$140,500.00 |
|
| SILVERCORP METALS INC —–Sell Quantity: -20,000 Average cost: $6.98 Total: -$139,700.00 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Liu, Derek Zhihua |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-18-24 |
-20,000 |
$6.98 |
-$139,700.00 |
| Liu, Derek Zhihua |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
57 – Exercise of rights |
10-21-24 |
24,334 |
$0.00 |
$0.00 |
| Liu, Yikang |
4 – Director of Issuer |
57 – Exercise of rights |
10-21-24 |
1,167 |
$0.00 |
$0.00 |
|
| Platinum Group Metals Ltd —–Sell Quantity: -43,195 Average cost: $2.38 Total: -$102,999.95 Options Issued: 33,195 Average cost: $1.81 Total: $60,082.95 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Begic, Kris |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-17-24 |
-10,000 |
$2.30 |
-$23,000.00 |
| Begic, Kris |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
51 – Exercise of options |
10-18-24 |
33,195 |
$1.81 |
$60,082.95 |
| Begic, Kris |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-18-24 |
-33,195 |
$2.41 |
-$79,999.95 |
|
| First Majestic Silver Corp —–Sell Quantity: -8,317 Average cost: $10.40 Total: -$86,496.80 |
| Insider |
Relationship |
Transaction |
Date |
Quantity |
Price |
Total |
| Arias, Jill Anne |
5 – Senior Officer of Issuer |
10 – Acquisition or disposition in the public market |
10-21-24 |
-8,317 |
$10.40 |
-$86,496.80 |
 By Staff
October 22nd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
 It has been a busy fall for the Admin Team at Millcroft Against Bad Development. An update on their activities and what they think can be done to assist in stopping this development.
They have been working closely with our elected officials Mayor Marianne Meed Ward, Councillor Angelo Bentivegna, MPP Effie Triantafilopoulos and MPP Natalie Pierre.
In meeting the Premier back in September, he stated to the MAD team that he would reach out to our Mayor to work on this together, contact MPP Paul Calandra to get up to speed on our file and explore all options to preserve our green space.
Many in the community were resting their hope on convincing the Premier to issue an MZO – a Ministerial Zoning Order that could quash the decision issued by the Ontario Land Tribunal. There are reports that the Premier has already said he would not be issuing an MZO.
The Mayor and the MAD team are still waiting for a meeting with the Premier and are hopeful that this will take place in the near future now that the Legislature is back in session.
 MAD points to their support across the Region MAD continues to encourage everyone to send a letter in support of preserving our green space to Doug Ford
MAD is pleased to report that we now have over 14,100 signatures in support of saving our Burlington Green Space with well over 63% from residents outside of the Millcroft area. Our support is GTA wide with supporters from Hamilton, Oakville, Milton, Mississauga, Etobicoke, Vaughn and beyond.
Please forward this to your friends and family, help us achieve the new goal of 15,000 signatures!
They are at the over 14,100 signatures!
 Members of the MAD Admin Team meet with Premier Ford There are two options to do this which are as follows:
Option 1 – Quick and Easy
Go to our website and fill in your name and email and an email will be sent to the province on your behalf. Select the link below. Option 1 – Quick and Easy
Option 2 – Write your own Email
Send an email to:
doug.fordco@pc.ola.org,
Doug.Downey@pc.ola.org,
effie.triantafilopoulos@pc.ola.org,
Effie.triantafilopoulosco@pc.ola.org
Paul.Calandra@pc.ola.org,
Natalie.Pierre@pc.ola.org,
zee.hamid@pc.ola.org,
andrea.khanjin@pc.ola.org,
Matthew.Rae@pc.ola.org,
natalie@nataliepierrempp.ca,
navita@nataliepierrempp.ca,
Katie.Robinette@ontario.ca,
Premier@ontario.ca,
attorneygeneral@ontario.ca
stephen.crawford@pc.ola.org
Vijay.Thanigasalam@pc.ola.org
Lorne.Coe@pc.ola.org
Related news story:
Is the Mayor withholding information?
By Staff
October 21st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
At the opening of each Council meeting Mayor Meed Ward reads a statement:
 Did Jim Thomson hear the Mayor? She didn’t say anything about T-shirts “We ask folks not to engage in any behavior that may be considered disruptive, interrupting, shouting, clapping if you agree, booing, if you don’t. We want everyone to feel absolutely comfortable to say what they came to say, and not worry about whether they will be popular or unpopular in expressing those views. So we ask folks to just be respectful. We don’t permit indecent, offensive or insulting language or speaking disrespectfully about anyone or to anyone in council chambers that includes staff or other members of the public and certainly committee members.
 By Staff
October 21st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
An Open Letter to Minister of Education Jill Dunlop, MPP Ted Arnott, MPP Stephen Crawford, MPP Zee Hamid, MPP Effie Triantafilopoulos and MPP Natalie Pierre
For years, Halton Catholic teachers have watched the erosion of Ontario’s publicly funded education system play out in our classrooms.
- School violence has increased, which is taking a physical and emotional toll on students and teachers alike.
- Class sizes are too large for teachers to give students the individual attention and one-on-one support that they need.
- Recent briefing documents produced by the Ford Conservative government warn of a future that Catholic teachers already see in our schools – a growing and direteacher recruitment and retention crisis.
 Underpinning it all is the Ford government’s active choice to underfund education, which has happened each and every year since it was elected in 2018. We know these issues will only get worse if immediate changes are not made.
In our district, with less than $1 a day per student for basic school supplies, teachers are forced to ration essential classroom resources, like paper and pencils. Halton schools do not have enough physical textbooks for students to use in class, nor are there enough functioning computers for them to access the texts online.
We are forced to stretch ourselves thin, taking on multiple roles – becoming counsellors, behaviour specialists, and even administrators – on top of our primary teaching duties.
Catholic teachers want to do the job we love in a learning and working environment that helps students thrive and succeed. But we, along with teachers in classrooms across Ontario, cannot keep doing more with less.
Halton Catholic teachers are on the front lines of this crisis, and we live these issues alongside our students each and every day. We know what they need to succeed, which is why we are calling on your government to end the cuts and provide real and sustained investments in education. Our students deserve better.
Tara Hambly, President, OECTA Halton Secondary Unit
Vanessa Slee, President, OECTA Halton Elementary Unit
By Staff
October 21st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington MPP Natalie Pierre has announced that she will not seek re-election in the next provincial election.
 Natalie Pierre in the Provincial Legislature “It has been an honour and a privilege to represent Burlington at Queen’s Park and to work with Premier Ford and the Ontario PC caucus to deliver results for my community,” Pierre said. “After careful consideration, I believe the time is right to step aside. My commitment to our community will not waiver and I will continue to work hard and serve the people of Burlington for the balance of my term.”
 Known more for her photo ops than for anything substantial in the Legislature Her decision to announce that she won’t seek re-election at this time allows the Ontario PC Party sufficient time to select a new candidate and prepare for the next general election.
The Ontario PC Party extends its gratitude to MPP Pierre for her dedication and service.
Natalie was known more for her photo-ops than for anything substantive done in the legislature.
When we first met her we thought we saw a sincere level of empathy and hoped that she would be a force for changes at the provincial level.
Her time as a politician is not something she will forget; a decent well-meaning individual in a world where decency isn’t a useful skill set.
 By Staff
October 21st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
A reader sent us the following:
Halton police said a Burlington senior received minor injuries when her vehicle was stolen as she loaded groceries Wednesday, Oct. 9. At about 10:42 a.m., the 80-year-old was in the parking lot of the No Frills on Brant Street and was loading groceries into her Mercedes sedan when a man approached, said Const. Jeff Dillon, Halton Police media officer.
It’s alleged the suspect got into the victim’s Mercedes and drove away. Dillon said the senior sustained minor injuries from falling as a result of the vehicle pulling away. The suspect is described as wearing black shoes, black pants, and a black sweater.
 Car hijacked in broad daylight from the No Frills parking lot on Brant Street. This is a very frightening incident. To have someone dart into your car and drive it away while you are loading groceries in the trunk in broad daylight shows that the thieves have become more brazen.
This happens in Toronto – and now Burlington?
By Staff
October 21st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
In Itabashi, the Japanese city Burlington is twinned with, they dance in the streets.
In Burlington, we stand idly on the sidewalk as the parades march past us.
 This trip the Mayor chose Japanese attire – much more fitting than what she wore the last time she was in Japan. The photograph of Mayor Meed Ward dancing in the Itabashi parade this year has her in more sedate clothing.
The last time the Mayor was in Japan it was a different picture.
 It was a different Marianne leading a parade through the streets of Japan in 2020 The three-day trip winds up today – they should be home tomorrow.
Will there be a welcoming committee at the airport?
 By Pepper Parr
October 21st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
That long-awaited first version of the Mayor’s 2025 budget will be available on Friday, the 25th.
The document goes to a Council meeting on November 4th – which gives the public nine days to go over the document and get some sense as to what they might be facing in terms of a tax increase. It is reported to be at a pinch over 8%.
Last time we saw a budget with a significant increase 15% there were four very strong delegations – didn’t seem to make any difference. Two of the delegations heard Council say they would reach out and talk to them about some of the points made in their delegation. Both have reported that they haven’t heard a word.
This time around – it might be different.
 BRAG – Burlington Residents’ Action Group has a team of people in place who have divided up their understanding of the different sections the budget will be broken into – their task is to do the deepest dive possible into the data and be in a position to delegate with data from the document.
The public has been told that the budget document will not be a 700 + pages and that the format will be quite different. The Gazette will report on what is delivered on Friday.
Burlington has never seen anything like this in the 12 years I have been covering this Council.
Members of the BRAG the incorporated not for profit group are of the view that the numbers in the budget are “baked in” – “there won’t be much oportunity to change anything – but we are still going to do our job.”
Others in the community have given up – one “doesn’t believe this Council is going to get even close to changing until it occurs to them that they may not get re-elected – and then they will scurry about like rats leaving a sinking ship looking for some high and dry space.”
There is a protocol in place that Council will be following in order to have the budget discussions completed and a bylaw in place before the end of the year.Oct. 25
Mayor’s Proposed Budget Report will be shared with the community and posted at GetInvolvedBurlington.ca/2025budget and on the Nov. 4 Committee of the Whole agenda
 Marianne Meed Ward before she was elected Mayor Nov. 4 – Burlington Committee of the Whole
The Mayor, under Strong Mayors legislation, will present the 2025 proposed budget to Burlington City Council. City Council and the public will be given time to review the proposed budget and give the Mayor feedback. Delegates welcome. Register by noon the previous business day.
Nov. 7 – Budget Telephone Town Hall
Residents can join the call starting at 7 p.m. to ask questions about the 2025 proposed budget. The telephone town hall will be hosted by Mayor Meed Ward and run until 8:30 p.m. Visit Get Involved Burlington for details.
Nov. 18 and 21 – Budget Committee meetings
City Council amendments to the budget. Delegates welcome. Register by noon the previous business day.
Nov. 25 – Special Council Meeting
This meeting is for budget approval.
There is at least one member of Council who is not prepared to go along with what the Mayor is proposing. On Friday we will have a clearer idea on what she has in mind.
 By Pepper Parr
October 21st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
It was Thanksgiving Day and the folks at Millcroft Greenspace Alliance (MGA) said they were thankful and wanted to “show our gratitude to the Mayor and Council of the City of Burlington for their continued commitment to preserving the Millcroft stormwater green infrastructure from pending development.”
At the October 8th budget pre-consultation meeting a golfer asked, “What is happening at the Millcroft Golf Course?” The Mayor and Angelo Bentivegna, the ward councillor, spoke to the issue. According to Angelo, the Mayor is continuing to work on preserving the greenspace even after the Minister of Housing has denied the City’s two requests to stop the development.
 This kind of flooding on the golf course lands is managed by the draining system that was put in place when the golf course was laid down.  The golf course was designed with a drainage system that handles flooding like this. The audience was told that the “Mayor is now in discussions directly with the Premier.
Prior to this question, the Mayor’s presentation included a general comment that the City does have funds set aside to purchase property if it becomes available.
What makes these comments of serious concern to the Millcroft residents is that on October 15th, shortly after Council came out of a CLOSED meeting it was learned that the Premier had told the Mayor directly that there would not be an MZO issued. An MZO is a Ministerial Zoning order that could quash the decision made by the Ontario Land Tribunal.
Flood mitigation is also a concern of the City as they await the final tally of the cost of the July 2024 flood. A significant portion of the flood damage occurred downstream from Millcroft in Wards 4 and 5. The importance of flood abatement through absorption in the fairway channels becomes increasingly important as climate change progresses.
The Hon. Karina Gould MP understands the implications of the proposed development and has supported our recent letter to the Hon. Steven Guilbeaut MP, Minister of the Environment by forwarding a copy to Meteorological and Climate Change Canada. We have appealed to the federal government for funding for our City with regard to preserving the green infrastructure. In addition, we have again requested that the Minister apply moral suasion to the Premier of Ontario to do the right thing for our citizens. In the past, the Hon. Steven Guilbeault expressed his reluctance to provide disaster relief when the Province of Ontario allows development on floodplains. Although the Premier denied that this would happen, Millcroft is a specific example where the Province has turned a blind eye.
Nevertheless, MGA does the decent thing saying: “We would also like to thank all our donors who have assisted in reducing the outstanding legal bill from the Ontario Land Tribunal hearing. MGA was the only party to the hearing that provided expert testimony on the stormwater importance of this greenspace. In the event that flood damage does result from the development, the case has been presented. Our outstanding balance is approximately $2,500.”
The Millcroft community has done a superb job of raising funds within the community “to cover legal costs that amounted to$21,662.10 for all work including preparation for our initial submission to the Tribunal, the response to other submissions and the 17 day hearing. ”
MGA now has to cover the administrative costs incurred in the raising of funds.
By Pepper Parr
October 20th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The list of the people on that junket to Japan just keeps getting more and more interesting.
We learned this morning that the Citys’ Solicitor, Blake Hurley is also a part of the group that is representing Burlington in Japan
He joins, City CAO Hassaan Basit, the Mayor, Councillors Galbraith and Nisan plus people from the Mundialization Committee.
 Would someone identify the three people on the right? We know who the two wearing casual clothing are: Councillors Galbraith and Nisan. The Mayor dressed appropriately – a welcome change. The event is, in a minor way, a diplomatic occasion that the Japanese understand. The Mayor has a member of her staff with some experience in diplomatic protocol – she should have briefed the Mayor The Mayor is popping out short bursts of information on her Twitter platform.
One of the more recent:
 This is ridiculous. Time spent wandering the streets of Itabashi and dropping in on a cat cafe! Japan is 13 hours ahead of Burlington, so it’s already tomorrow for me. We did do some exploring including checking out some interesting architecture, like high rises with external staircases, and visiting a cat café! The Tokyo region has 37 million people – more than the entire population of Canada!
This is what taxpayer money is being used for?
We have some questions.
Who decides who goes on these junkets?
The Mundialization committee would decide who represents them. Hasan Raza, Chair of the Mundialization Committee, Marybeth Curtin, Chair of the Itabashi sub-committee – that makes sense.
Who decides who is going to represent the city? Looks like the Mayor makes those decisions – not a lot of detail on the city website.
Why the City solicitor, Blake Hurley, was included is a question to be answered.
Is there not a limit to the gall of these people?
By Pepper Parr
October 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The kids can make a difference – better than that – the kids are making a difference.
In a landmark case, Ontario’s top court has ruled that an appeal from seven young Ontarians suing the provincial government over its new greenhouse gas emissions targets can proceed.
The Court of Appeal declined to rule on the case’s substance which means extending a legal battle in Canada’s courts over their role in overseeing government climate action.
In a decision released Thursday, three judges sided with the appellants in Mathur v. Ontario that a Superior Court of Justice judge “erred” in deciding the young people’s case was a “positive rights case” in an April 2023 decision.
 Seven young people with their lawyers – suing the government over its new greenhouse gas emissions targets. Gets a little technical – the Judges said: “This is not a positive rights case. The application does not seek to impose on Ontario any new positive obligations to combat climate change”. In legal studies and political theory, positive rights refers to rights that give people something, such as a right to have an education or a right to housing.
The judges fell short of determining the merits of the case’s arguments, writing the appeals court was “not well placed” to make such a ruling. Instead, they called for a new hearing, which could be overseen by the original judge or a different one.
Thursday’s ruling gave the seven young appellants — lead applicant Sophia Mathur, Madison Dyck, Shelby Gagnon, Beze Gray, Zoë Keary-Matzner, Alex Neufeldt and Shaelyn Wabegijig — a small victory in their lawsuit against the provincial government that was first filed in 2019.
At issue — which lawyers for the seven young people argued before the Court of Appeal earlier this year — was Ontario’s weakened 2030 emissions targets passed by Premier Doug Ford’s then-newly elected Progressive Conservative government in 2018 that reduced goals from 37 per cent lower emissions below 2005 levels to 30 per cent. According to the appellants claim, this reduction violates the charter rights of current youth and future generations, specifically sections 7 and 15 that provide the right to life, liberty and security of the person and equal protection under the law respectively.
 Steel mills operating in the waterfront harbour in Hamilton, Ont. Canada has had a national price on pollution since 2019 – known as the Carbon tax. Mathur v. Ontario is the first case of its kind to be tried in Canada, and Thursday’s ruling could shape decisions in other cases facing courts in Canada and internationally asking judiciaries to more actively oversee government climate plans.
In a similar case, La Rose v. Her Majesty the Queen, is awaiting a trial date at the federal level in Canada as 15 young people sue the Canadian government on similar grounds as the seven young people in Mathur v. Ontario.
The future belongs to the young people – what a delight to see them taking the lead. There is hope yet.
Much of the material in this article first appeared in the Toronto Star
By Pepper Parr
October 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Public transit has always been a problem for Burlington.
It has been very difficult to plan transit routes with the QEW cutting through the city.
 Burlington grew as a single-family housing community – the car came with the house.
Transit problems were not managed all that well until Sue Connors was appointed to the job.
When Marianne Meed Ward became the Mayor her very pro-transit views began to drive the agenda. The year before the pandemic hit the world a limited free transit use program was put in place – transit use numbers soared.
The Mayor did not have total agreement with her Council colleagues.
There is a $6 million cost to upgrade the fleet floating around that no one has every broken out.
Funding for new busses comes from the federal government – every time a new bus arrives either city staff or Council members are trotted out to the transit garage for a photo op.
 New bus = photo op  New bus – staff dragged out to welcome the diesel-driven vehicle. Transit is caught up with the transition taking place from diesel busses to electrically driven buses.
Different skill sets are needed to handle the maintenance of the buses.
It is a complex issue that gets muddled with the different views people in Burlington have on how they are going to get around the city.
They want to drive their cars – on streets that at times are in a state of gridlock.
It is going to take some very deft thinking to manage the change that will eventually take place.
On that level – Burlington is not leading.
BRAG – Burlington Residents’ Action Group is running a survey in a first stab at gathering some data. Here is the link to that survey. Your views are important click HERE
By Pepper Parr
October 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The city is looking for people they can put on the several Advisory Committees .
The following are open for new blood.
Expect the interest in the Burlington Accessibility Advisory Committee
- Burlington Agriculture and Rural Affairs Advisory Committee
- Burlington Cycling Advisory Committee
- Burlington Downtown Parking Advisory Committee
- Burlington Integrated Transportation Advisory Committee
- Burlington Mundialization Committee
- Burlington Seniors Advisory Committee
- Burlington Sustainable Development Advisory Committee (10 vacancies)
- Heritage Burlington Advisory Committee
- Inclusivity Advisory Committee
Expect the interest in the Mundialization Committee to increase. As long as you have a passport and a friend on Council you have a decent chance of being made a member and a really good chance to travel to either Holland or Japan – unless of course the city does the responsible thing and reviews the Mundialization mandate and objective.
 Councillors Nissan and Galbraith didn’t appear to know what was appropriate attire. Should you get appointed to the Mundialization Committee do try hard not to be the embarrassment that two of the city councillors have been so far this visit.
What has taken place in Japan so far this year is an embarrassment.
First it took days to determine who was actually going to represent the city on the three day trip. The four who made the trip were the Mayor, Councillors Galbraith and Nisan and the City CAO, Hassaan Basit .
 These cherry trees were given to Burlington by a Japanese citizen. There was no mention as to why they were not at the City Council meeting on Tuesday. One would have thought it was something to be proud of – members of Council were going to be in Japan – that was the city that donated those splendid cherry trees in Spencer Smith Park.
Instead they sort of snuck out of town like someone doing a moonlight flit on their landlord because they were months behinds on their rent. For a City Council with experienced photo op practitioners – they seemed to have decided to say as little as they could about the event.
 Councillor Nisan finally found his suit. Mayor Meed Ward did send something out on one of her social media feeds but didn’t mention all the people who were on the “junket”.
We know very little about what they are doing each day – there is nothing in the way of a media feed. The city comms people haven’t sent out a thing.
Hope the members of Council don’t expect a welcome-home crowd at the airport when they land.
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