 By Staff
December 23rd, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
It’s a day Jamie Leslie isn’t likely to forget.
She was at Kelso/Glen Eden with her Dad, Dave day on Friday when she was declared the one millionth visitor in 2017 to a Conservation Halton location.
The visits number includes those who have enjoyed recreational programs and services at Crawford Lake, Hilton Falls, Kelso / Glen Eden, Mount Nemo, Mountsberg, Rattlesnake Point and Robert Edmondson.
The Conservation people have been working towards that millionth visitor number for some time. Chief Administrative Officer Hassaan Basit and Director of Parks and Recreation Gene Matthews made the target number a must for the year.
 Georgetown resident Jayme Leslie was the one millionth visit to a Conservation Halton location. Jayme, a Georgetown resident, received a gift package which will give her and her family the opportunity to keep enjoying our parks in 2018 and beyond. The package included a Glen Eden Season pass for 2018-19, a Halton Parks Membership for one year, merchandise and maple syrup from Mountsberg.
Basit, who is intense, but not the kind of guy that goes over the top with his comments. On this occasion however he got excited and said: “As we approach the end of the year it is fantastic to be able to celebrate a milestone like one million visits and we would like to thank everyone who came to enjoy our beautiful conservation areas.”
Visitation at Conservation Halton’s conservation areas has grown steadily over the past few years. In 2013, visits went over the 800,000 level, and last year almost reached 1,000,000. During that time period, the number of visits to Hilton Falls, Mount Nemo and Rattlesnake Point has more than doubled as people are enjoying the scenic views from those parks which are each along the iconic Niagara Escarpment and other activities like hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing.
 By Staff
December 22nd, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Not the best time of year to ask people to find a couple of minutes to respond to a city survey. Things are so busy that the supermarket in my part of town is going to be open until 11 pm tonight.
Nonetheless – know this: The City will be replacing 14 playgrounds over the next two years and is encouraging families who use the specific parks to complete a survey to say which kinds of playground features would be most wanted.
Beginning Dec. 28, 2017, city staff will be at nearby recreation centres asking for input.
The online survey is HERE and will be available until January, 31, 2018.
 Location of the 14 parks that will be upgraded in 2018 Playgrounds to be replaced in the next two years are:
1. Brada Woods Park, 5196 Brada Cr.
2. Breckon Park, 4471 Spruce Ave.
3. Brittany Park, 1370 Headon Rd.
4. Champlain Park, 2101 Mountain Grove Ave.
5. Cumberland Park, 562 Cumberland Ave.
6. DesJardines Park, 1811 Imperial Way
7. LaSalle Park, 50 North Shore Blvd.
8. Maple Community Park, 750 Maple Ave.
9. Maplehurst Public School, 481 Plains Rd. E.
10. Optimist Park, 2131 Prospect St.
11. Sheraton Park, 594 Sheraton Rd.
12. Spencer Smith Park, 1400 Lakeshore Rd.
13. Sycamore Park, 3157 Centennial Dr.
14. Tansley Woods Park, 4100 Kilmer Dr.
Chris Glenn, director of Parks and Recreation explains that: “The survey results will be used to create plans for the parks that will be specific to that park. Talk to your kids about what kinds of play structures they like. Ask them if they prefer straight or curving slides, monkey bars, poles, swings and other fun, interactive equipment.”
The survey questionnaire runs 17 pages – we will run it again in the New Year when you have more time for this kind of thing.
 By Staff
December 22nd, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton District School Board is hosting several Pathways Planning Information Evenings in January 2018 that will allow parents and Grades 7-12 students to explore program opportunities high schools offer in Halton.
 Today’s student. The Board offers more than 80 programs designed to meet individual needs and help students succeed after high school, whether they are pursuing a pathway toward apprenticeship, college, community, university or the workplace.
Information nights help students to be better prepared for a rapidly changing world while receiving a relevant and engaging education.
All are welcome to attend and registration is not required. The meetings will be held at the following locations from 6-8 p.m.:
• Thursday, January 11, 2018: Georgetown District High School, 70 Guelph Street, Georgetown
• Tuesday, January 16, 2018: White Oaks Secondary School, North Campus, 1055 McCraney Street East, Oakville
• Thursday, January 18, 2018: Craig Kielburger Secondary School, 1151 Ferguson Drive, Milton
• Tuesday, January 23, 2018: M.M. Robinson High School, 2425 Upper Middle Road, Burlington
These programs include the Specialist High Skills Major programs, Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Programs, Specialty School to Career programs, the Employability Skills Certificate program, Dual Credit college programs, Grade 8-9 Transition programs, and more.
Agenda for each night:
6-6:30 p.m. – Pathways displays staff by Pathways Program teachers
6:30-7:15 p.m. – Pathways presentation (Programs and planning for post-secondary)
7:15-8 p.m. – Teacher displays and elementary transition to high school workshop
To learn more, visit www.haltonpathways.ca.
 By Staff
December 22nd, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
On Thursday, December 21, 2017, just before 10:30pm, a traffic stop was initiated at Longmoor Drive and New Street in Burlington. As a result of an investigation, Owen Brown (31) of Burlington was charged with driving over 80mgs.
On Thursday, December 21, 2017, just after 10:50pm, a traffic stop was initiated at Mainway and Appleby Line in Burlington. As a result of an investigation, Erblin Shehu (29) of Stoney Creek was charged with driving over 80mgs.
On Thursday, December 21, 2017, just after 11:20pm, a traffic stop was initiated at Walkers Line and Mainway in Burlington. As a result of an investigation, Panayiotis Diakoloukas (40) of Burlington was charged with impaired operation of a motor vehicle and driving over 80mgs.
What will it take to end news items like this?. There are a couple in Burlington every day.
The Police Service reminds the public that driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol is a crime in progress and to call 9-1-1 immediately to report a suspected impaired driver.
 By Pepper Parr
December 21st, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Every media document the city sends out and many of the reports that come out of city hall have the tag line:
Burlington is one of Canada’s best and most livable cities,
a place where people, nature and business thrive.
It’s the kind of thing George Orwell wrote about in “1984” – the rule seems to be that if you say it often enough it becomes true. Did the person at city hall who wrote the line believe it? It was probably done by a committee with the final version being signed off on by the city manager.
For those who rely on public transit there must be a very cruel irony –there will be no transit service on either Christmas Day or New Year’s Day.
The holiday transit schedule is set out below.
Salt with Pepper are the opinions of the Publisher of the Burlington Gazette.
By Staff
December 21st, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
How you get nabbed for driving while under the influence before noon is not easy to explain away.
On Wednesday December 20, 2017, just after 11:00am, Halton Police officers investigated a collision involving an impaired driver in the area of Brant Street and Ontario Street in Burlington. Police charged Charles Beszterczey (66) of Burlington with driving over 80mgs.
On Wednesday December 20, 2017, just before 9:00 pm, a traffic stop was initiated at Plains Road East and White Oak Drive in Burlington. As a result of an investigation, Klaas Kreuze (50) of Flamborough was charged with driving over 80mgs.
 sde The Halton Regional Police Service remains committed to road safety through prevention, education and enforcement initiatives.
Members of the public are reminded that driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol is a crime in progress and to call 9-1-1 immediately to report a suspected impaired driver.
Anyone charged with an offence is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
 By Rory Nisan
December 21st, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
There has been a disconcerting trend at city hall where language is being used as a tool to manufacture consent. The most concerning has been the use of the word “emerging”. This was used during the recent waterfront development consultations (emerging preferred concept), as well as in reference to the city’s official plan (emerging vision).
 Can the democratic process flourish at city hall? What is wrong with emerging concepts and emerging visions? The problem is that neither has been voted on by the duly elected representatives of the city. Planning staff, or even the city manager cannot state that anything is “emerging” until it has been democratically decided. By doing so, they are undermining the all-important democratic process, and this can lead to citizens being led to believe that decisions have been made long before they have been.
Do city planners see themselves in the driver’s seat, with city Councillors and the mayor also in the car, and the city’s citizens running behind, trying to catch up?
To extend the metaphor, in a well-functioning democracy the elected representatives may be in the driver’s seat, but with citizens sitting shotgun, holding the map and able to pick new drivers at regular intervals.
Planning staff should promise city council not undermine democratic space by using misleading language regarding unapproved plans in the future.
Unfortunately, the lack of understanding of democratic principles in some offices of city hall extends to members of city council. Councillor Paul Sharman, in his recent blog post, made clear that he doesn’t understand a second fundamental principle of democracy: it is about much more than elections.
 Ward 5 Councillor Paul Sharman talked down to his constituents when he said, “The issues are quite complex.” Regarding 421-431 Brant street, Councillor Sharman could have demonstrated that he was listening to Burlingtonians and reflecting their concerns at city hall. Instead, Councillor Sharman talked down to his constituents when he said, “The issues are quite complex. Council was elected to understand all the issues and to figure how to address concerns of the entire population.”
Issues are complex. Water is wet.
It is impossible to address the concerns of “the entire population” because it is impossible to know the views of everyone in the city. Instead, council is expected to listen to constituents because those who speak up have the greatest investment in the issue at hand. Council must at a minimum balance those concerns with a broader perspective. One cannot simply dismiss concerns raised as not representing the entire population. Nor can one use “NIMBY” as a rhetorical device to put down anyone who does not want a high rise downtown on Brant street.
Councillor Dennison employed a similar argument in dismissing a petition with over 1000 signatures related to the development at 421-431 Brant, saying that he had to represent the views of all Burlingtonians, not 1000.
 Ward 4 city Councillor Jack Dennison – has yet to see a citizen petition that cannot be dismissed easily. Petitions are at the core of democratic action, so important that they can be registered in parliaments around the world. They are a demonstration of whether social licence is given to politicians to proceed. They cannot be dismissed so easily. In this case, there is so little support for 421-431 Brant street – no petition in support of the project – yet strong opposition.
Councillor Sharman also lectured his constituents in a related Facebook post on the Official Plan, writing:
“What is generally not appreciated by community members is the city is sub organization [sic] of the province of Ontario, not an independent organization. The role of the City is to implement plans established by the province almost without question. It does require interpretation though, hence the official plan and all of the angst it is causing.”
This paragraph deserves a close look as it reveals how a Councillor approaches his job and the role of his constituents.
First, he makes a broad generalization of the community, presuming that we are unaware of the municipality’s position within the provincial government framework. Many of us are well aware that the municipality is part of the Province of Ontario – anyone who has even thought about the role of the Ontario Municipal Board recognizes that municipalities are not islands. So why lecture us?
Second, he says, “The role of the City is to implement plans established by the province almost without question.” I have not seen any provincial legislation that limits the ability of city councils to lobby the province for changes, to even demand changes to plans that it sees as inappropriate. Questioning, debating, requesting, suggesting, pleading and persuading are all actions that can be taken by municipalities when it sees plans that are contrary to the best interests of a city. Contrary to Councillor Sharman’s assertion, there is much give and take between municipalities and the province. It is unfortunate that Councillor Sharman appears to have ceded that role in favour of the ostrich approach.
Finally, Councillor Sharman reduces the legitimate concerns of constituents to “angst”, an emotional response, implying that the community is not thinking clearly, and would understand the real world if only they could put their feelings aside, be quiet and listen. He is blaming constituents for behaving foolishly and letting emotion cloud their judgement.
 When an elected leader does not listen to their constituents, they are not respecting their constituents. Leadership that believes it “knows best” has a deleterious effect on our democratic institutions.
Politicians who do not understand the importance of social licence and of representing constituents throughout their terms must be taught that lesson at the polls, as it remains the strongest weapon of democracy.
 Rory Nisan is a long-time Burlington resident and Lester B. Pearson High School alumnus. He has been an active member of the Save Pearson community organization.
 By Jeremy Skinner
December 21, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
This article is designed to stimulate the conversation as to why the residents of Burlington need to accommodate intensification, otherwise known as to Grow Up.
The recent Halton District School Board Burlington Secondary School Program Accommodation Review confirmed once again that we in Burlington have a serious demographic problem. By 2020 there will be approximately 1,554 (1,179 located south of the QEW and 376 located north of QEW) available student spaces across Burlington’s seven high schools. Because of the declining student enrolments, some students in Burlington’s seven secondary schools would not be provided the same equity of opportunity as other students within the Halton District School Board, and even fellow students enrolled in larger Burlington secondary schools. The reasons for Secondary School over-capacity relative to student enrollments are fivefold:
1. The rapid development of Burlington South of QEW suburbs in the 1960s and 1970s and North of QEW in the 1980s and thereafter.
2. The Provincial decision to create the Separate School Board alternative;
3. The more recent Provincial decision elimination of grade 13;
4. Empty nesters prefer to live out their retirement years in the family home; and
5. Families with children are no longer able to afford the cost of a home in Burlington.
I digress for a moment to counter any arguments as to the large turnover of residential real estate this past year will make a significant difference in emerging student enrollments.
Zolo research into Burlington real estate transactions reveals an average house turnover rate of 199 houses per month with a peak of 238 houses last April out of a potential market of 53,170 dwellings comprised of detached, row and semi-detached houses based upon 2016 Canada Census Data. Please note that Zolo does not track transaction data associated with apartments or condominium units. Apartments represents 24% or 17,265 dwellings according to Canada Census data. Note that while there is currently a surplus inventory of approximately 500 houses looking for a buyer, the selling to asking price ratio remains high at 97%. These houses are simply taking longer to sell.
This data indicates that we must not expect a watershed moment when considerable number dwellings will transfer hands between legacy old and new families, including those with children, and instead focus our efforts to build family with children friendly new dwellings.
The mayor has been quoted that “almost one-third of the city’s population is 55 years of age or over”.
See the red boxed age groups. 19.3 per cent of the city’s population is 65 or older and approximately 13 per cent is between the ages of 55 and 64.
It is my opinion, that almost one-half of the city’s population are in the child supporting ages of between 30 and 65 years of age.
See the green boxed age groups. 12 percent of the city’s population is between the ages of 30 and 39, 23% percent of the city’s population is between the ages 40-54, and 13 percent of the city’s population is between 55 and 64. The challenges we face in the near future is how to accommodate those in their retirement years and those who are entering the labour force.
Permit me to depict this same information using a different chart style so that we may contemplate the future as more households move into retirement. We simply move the graphic to the right to visaulise how the population ages. The peak demographic group of 14,350 people currently aged 60 to 54 will enter retirement in just over ten years. We also need to contemplate what will happen to those currently less than 30 years of age. It is doubtful that most will be able to afford a non-apartment style dwelling assuming that one becomes available.
Chart 5 outlines the distribution of singles, couples without children, couples with children and other groupings residing in Burlington’s 71,375 dwellings at time of Census.
With only one greenfield left for residential neighbourhood development located in the North-East corner Appleby Line/Dundas St. in Burlington, the decision was made to close and Lester B. Pearson Secondary School in end of June 2018 and Robert Bateman Secondary School end of June 2019. By attempting to balance student populations across five schools, each student would be provided the same equity of opportunity as other students within the Halton District School Board, and even fellow students enrolled in larger Burlington secondary schools such as Nelson, M.M. Robinson and Dr. Frank Hayden.
Student enrollments at Aldershot Secondary School and Burlington Central High School will be monitored. Note that Aldershot Secondary School currently includes a contingent of Grade Seven and Grade Eight students in the same building. This implies that it is imperative that we provision more accommodations for families with children in the Aldershot area or be prepared to lose the school in ten years time.
This leads us to the conclusion that families with children need to be attracted to Burlington into more cost-efficient accommodations, especially in those areas located below the QEW where underutilised community assets including parks, playgrounds, sports arenas, libraries and schools are located.
Let us spend a moment and contemplate the potential demographic effects on Burlington’s retail market.
Canada Census has a model which illustrates the total expenditures by average Canadian primary householder. Note that the total and more importantly retail specific peak for the age groups of between 30 and 65 are normally related to families supporting children. The delta between peak $34,959 associated with ages between 40 and 54 and a floor of $21,984 associated with 65 and over represents a decline in retail expenditures of $12,795 or about 1/3. In other words, the more we age, the less we consuming from a retail perspective.
Taking this a step further identifies expenditures by retail category by primary householder age group. This chart may be useful in determining which categories of retail establishments are disproportionally impacted due to an aging demographic.
From top to bottom:
• Blue line indicates Foods purchased from stores;
• Light Orange line indicates Household Operations (includes household repairs, furnace/hot water purchases/rentals, cleaning & storage supplies, garden products & care, pet products & care);
• Brown line indicates Recreation (includes toys, video games, sports equipment and facility costs web-shopping target);
• Green line indicates Clothing, shoes and accessories (web-shopping target)
• Navy Blue line indicates Health & Personal Care (including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, hair care, medical doctor, dentist, massage, etc.)
• Dark Orange line indicates Food and alcohol beverages purchased from restaurants
• Light Blue line indicates Household furnishings & equipment (appliances web-shopping target)
• Dark Grey line indicates Miscellaneous
• Light Grey line indicates Tobacco products and alcohol beverages (not purchased in restaurants)
The emergence of retail desserts indicates that the surrounding shopping population can’t support the retail establishment or can’t access the retail establishment, or the establishment real estate lease costs prohibitive in the area.
Let us consider where these retail establishments are currently located.
Areas depicted in orange represent retail corridors such as along Plains Rd and Fairview Avenue and the approximately fifty shopping plazas which typically are located at the intersections of major streets. Each has been identified for intensification and thus are mixed use sites. The challenge with many of these intensification nodes are that they will need to be rebuilt to accommodate residential units above and to provision parking for cars below. These rebuilt buildings will need to be carefully designed if reasonable transitions to bordering residential neighbourhoods are to be maintained. These sites will likely have a taller building component in the centre of the site or closer to the intersection and may be optionally surrounded by townhomes along some of the edges. Note the provisioning of underground parking changes the retail dynamic of the convenience shopper and those concerned about safety and accessibility.
The areas depicted in red relate to the existing downtown and uptown urban centres (located at Appleby Line & Upper-Middle Rd.). The proposed 3 Mobility Hubs are to accommodate future retail and residential opportunities housed within mid-rise mid-height and tall tower buildings surrounding the existing Appleby, Burlington and Aldershot GO transit stations.
Looking to the future, I have found two Canadian market sources which attempt to outline the future retail trends.
CBRE Real Estate Market Outlook – Retail Key Trends
• emphasize location and smaller, more efficient footprints,
• creating experiences that cannot be replicated online,
• seamless integration of the online and physical store network,
• logistics – upgrading systems and innovative fulfillment solutions
An illustration of Retail Real Estate Focus can be found at Main and Main which is a retail-centric, mixed-use developer.
Key site factors:
• Location – the hard corner, high visibility sites with maximum pedestrian traffic
• Growth – demographics and growth to drive retail sales.
• Lifestyle – neighbourhoods with the transit, arts and culture, and mixed-use vibrancy that consumers are looking for.
• Functional, inviting and efficient space for shoppers and tenants.
Conclusions
With no more land with which to expand the number of dwellings out over, we have no choice but to build up.
How well we manage this implied intensification will have a significant impact as to the quality of life amongst the residents of the City of Burlington.
Recent publications including City of Toronto’s Children in Vertical Communities Policies and Performance Guidelines may offer the Development Community and the City of Burlington with improved means to build more attractive condominiums for new families. I hope to review this document in a future article.
To do nothing, will likely imply higher taxes and fewer community and retail assets with which to access.
 Jeremy Skinner is a research who has worked with IBM and a major bank. The author cannot assume any liability as to the methods, associated data or conclusions which are depicted. They are simply provided for visualizing purposes only. This article expands on some of themes expressed by the author to City Council as part of the Statutory Meeting on the proposed New Official Plan.
By Staff
December 21st, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
 Entrance to the Meridian Brick works plant in Aldershot. The Meridian Brick people released three of the many studies that were “in the works” earlier this week. They relate to the plans the company has to begin quarrying for shale in the third “cell” of the property east of King Road north of the North Service Road.
The eastern “cell” is literally yards away from the about 60 homes on West Haven. The residents of the community formed a not for profit corporation to battle the brick company. The Tyandaga Environmental Coalition (TEC) has hired an environmental lawyer – the same one that took on the Nelson quarry south of Lowville and managed to have their request to expand that quarry turned down.
 One study, the site plan update, is of particular concern given the threat that hangs over the West Haven residents who fear that the brick company is going to go in and begin clear cutting trees on the property yards away from their homes.
The has stated on numerous occasions the importance of having the studies and the site plan peer reviewed by independent consultants, a process that will take some time.”
They fear that Meridian’s plan to commence the clear cutting of the East Quarry land in January / February 2018 will take place without a full peer review of the presented studies.
They are also wait to hear from Mayor Goldring on how he and City council will support the residents in their request:
1. That Burlington endorse TEC’s proposed MZO (Ministerial Zoning Order) and Request for Review to allow for the permanent protection of the site, or at the very least the required three-year salamander survey work;
2. That Burlington and the Halton Medical Officer of Health seek peer reviews of all Meridian’s technical
studies, to be paid for by Meridian; and
3. That Burlington commission immediately a Stakeholder Design Charette exercise to explore sustainable rehabilitation and development solutions across the entire Aldershot Quarry site.
 Equipment tat will mine the quarry – the maps show how close this will be to the homes on West Haven. In its media release TEC said: “It’s troubling that 9,000+ trees could come down at any moment. What a disaster for our community. What a disaster for the City and contrary to the “green Initiatives” that they are propagating.”
This situation, now at a critical stage, has been brought to the attention of our City, Regional, Provincial and Federal governments over the past two years. We continue to expect them to work with us to find a way forward immediately, that would benefit all while protecting the environment and all those who live, work, learn and play in this community.
There is a bit of an upside to the pressure TEC is putting on the politicians – the Mayor is reported to have said that the community meeting Meridian put on in November was a pretty poor effort – up until very recently the Mayor has said that the quarry was not a municipal matter.
 In a December 4th letter to the Mayor TEC asked for “… a meeting with you on this urgent matter as soon as possible, given that Meridian has stated at their recent meeting they will begin clearcutting in January 2018.
“We look forward to hearing from you.”
Which will arrive first, the telephone call from the Mayor agreeing to meet or the sound of the chain saws cutting down trees?
 By Pepper Parr
December 20th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
That didn’t take very long.
Breaking News – Bill Jannsen a retired planner from the City of Hamilton has been hired by the City of Burlington as its Interim Direct of Planning.
 The interim Director of Planning can now experience the joys of crossing the Skyway bridge each morning. At one point Janssen was the Hamilton Director of the Open for Business program. His most recent position with Hamilton appears to have been as Acting Director, Strategic Services/Special Projects at City Of Hamilton.
 A copy of the Draft Official Plan will be on the desk of the interim city planner. Not much on the man – which is unusual for people in the municipal sector.
Mary Lou Tanner, who becomes the Deputy City Manager on the 2st, today, will turn things over to Jannsen.
Tanner at one time worked for the city of Hamilton.
 By Staff
December 20, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
UPDATE: Problem solved – took six hours to find out where the glitch was.
Our email service provider is trying to figure out why email sent to us is being bounced back.
They are being supportive – and all we can do is cope with what they are trying to fix.
 They say the mail box is full – The messaging from the techies went like this:
Hmm, that is weird. I updated your mail’s quota, but I’m still getting bouncebacks when sending. Let me see if there’s anything wrong with the mail server.
Luke P
Hmm, yeah, that is super weird. I forced all the updates for your email address and it looks like the server itself is running just fine, but I’m still getting that bounce-back message. Let me see if I can get another pair of eyes to check it out.
We will keep you posted.
 By Pat Shields
December 20th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
After two disappointing losses against the Jr. Canadiens and Patriots last weekend, the Burlington Cougars battled back with a strong effort on Friday night at Appleby Ice Centre against the North York Rangers. The Cougars looked to mount a late game comeback after two 2nd period power play goals put the Rangers ahead, but the push came up short with the Cougars dropping their 3rd straight game, 2-1.
“The last two games the work ethic that we demand wasn’t there, and it was a lot better tonight I thought,” Cougars head coach Terry Richardson said following the game.
Burlington came out with a strong effort in the 1st period, neutralizing North York’s strong and physical play to the tune of a scoreless draw after 20 minutes.
 The Cougars and their 17th ranked penalty kill found themselves in some trouble in the second stanza, surrendering powerplay goals to Dante Fantauzzi and Grayden Gottschalk in the latter portions of the period.
The Cougars made things interesting with a 3rd period push, out-shooting the Rangers 16-6 in the frame and breaking the shutout with under a minute to play on Josiah Degazon’s 6th goal of the season. That is as far as they could climb though, dropping their record to 0-3 vs. the Rangers this season.
“They’re one of the top teams in the league – older, big, strong and they play well together. No one likes to lose, but we can see some of the things we work on every day in practice coming into the game now,” Richardson said. “We out shot them in the 3rd period, we just have to bury some of our chances.”
Richardson’s team will enjoy a couple more days off before they host the Mississauga Chargers on Monday afternoon at Appleby Ice Centre, and look to snap their 3-game losing streak. Puck drop will be a 2:00pm.
Note: The December 17th game against the Kingston Voyageurs has been postponed to Monday, January 15 at 1:00pm at Appleby Ice Centre.
The Burlington Cougars are a Canadian Junior “A” ice hockey team from Burlington, Ontario. They are a part of the Ontario Junior Hockey League.
 By Staff
December 19th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The folks at the head office of Conservation Halton on Britannia Road are excited – they are poised to reach the milestone of one million visits to its Conservation Areas in a calendar year for the first time in its history.
 The view from Mt. Nemo The visits number includes those who have enjoyed recreational programs and services at Crawford Lake, Hilton Falls, Kelso / Glen Eden, Mount Nemo, Mountsberg, Rattlesnake Point and Robert Edmondson.
The one millionth visit is expected to take place this week and a celebration will be held this Friday, December 22 at 11 a.m. at Glen Eden. Ontario’s third busiest ski facility will serve as a backdrop for this milestone; Glen Eden is also opening for the 2017-18 ski and snowboard season the day before.
 Chief Administrative Officer Hassaan Basit has driven the growth of Conservation Halton – 1 millionth visitor expected this week Conservation Halton operates seven primary conservation areas – Crawford Lake, Hilton Falls, Kelso / Glen Eden, Mount Nemo, Mountsberg, Rattlesnake Point and Robert Edmondson. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational programs – birding, boating, camping, cross country skiing, dog walking, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, picnicking, rock climbing, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and swimming.
By Staff
December 20th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The 2001 Audio Video located at 3350 Fairview St, Burlington was robbed just before closing at 9:00 pm.,last night.
 Two males entered the store armed with handguns and ordered the two employees to the rear of the store. One suspect maintained observation on the employees while the other suspect loaded an undisclosed amount of televisions into a large enclosed truck (which is believed to be a Uhaul truck that was parked at the rear of the store. The suspects fled the scene shortly after in the truck. It is unknown if a third suspect was waiting in the truck.
Two handguns were observed in the commission of the robbery, however, no one was injured.
The suspects were described as being black males in their early to mid 20’s, between 5’10” and 6’1″ with medium builds.
Anyone with information regarding this robbery is asked to contact Detective Phil Vandenbeukel of the 3 District, Criminal Investigations Bureau – Robbery Team at 905-825-4747 ext. 2343. Tips can be forwarded to Crime Stoppers; “See Something, Hear Something, Say Something” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), through the web at www.crimestoppers.ca or by texting “Tip201” with your message to 274637 (crimes).
 By Staff
December 19th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Updated Wednesday December 20th, 2017
Thousands knew about the lights – and they all visited the house on Spruce Street that had an almost overwhelming display of Christmas decoration.
Doug Musson had put up the lights for more than 30 years.
 Doug Musson and his Christmas lights. Earlier this week Doug was up on a ladder trying to fix a leak on the display and he fell. He passed away later that evening.
Due to the overwhelming response there is no longer a set date or time to pay our respects to Mr. Doug Musson. Please take the time over the holidays should you wish to visit the display and pay your respects.
3360 Spruce Avenue Burlington.
Early Wednesday morning Mayor Golding tweeted:
“Doug and the Musson family have provided Burlington with a wonderful display of Christmas Lights on their home for many, many years,”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Musson family.”
By Pepper Parr
December 19th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
In the world of politics – timing is everything – where more can happen in a week than takes a year in most sectors of endeavour.
The Gazette received a media release from the Region earlier today announcing that they will receive more than $1.8 million in funding for new bike lanes, multi-use trails and other cycling infrastructure improvements from the provincial government’s Ontario Municipal Commuter Cycling (OMCC) fund. The City of Burlington, the Town of Halton Hills and the Town of Oakville were also among 120 municipalities that received the funding.
 Hopefully not as much as a dime of this new cycling funding will get spent on New Street. The Region were the people that dug the road up to put in new water-mains. Whew, said the editorial team at the Gazette – imagine if that funding announcement had arrives two weeks ago – the New Street Road Diet might have survived.
The Region will use this funding to expand the Region’s cycling infrastructure. These investments will help improve cyclist safety and make cycle commuting a more appealing option for Halton residents. Accessible cycling infrastructure will also help reduce the reliance on motor vehicles and contribute to cleaner air across Ontario.
 There are still a lot of cars on the roads but cyclists are claiming some of that space – and the push is on to make more room for those who want to use their bikes in a safe environment. “Through Halton’s Active Transportation Master Plan, we have already built approximately 190 kilometers of on-road exclusive bike lanes and paved shoulders along Regional roads for residents to safely bike on,” said Halton Regional Chair, Gary Carr. “With this funding from the OMCC, we will be able to build on our successes and continue to offer cyclists a safe, convenient way to get around Halton Region.”
Given that it is the Region that got the funding – there isn’t much hope of their passing any of it along to the municipalities. Hopefully the Region will decide to spend some of the money on widening the shoulders of Walkers Line so that cyclists can use the road and not be in any danger from those driving vehicles.
 Guelph Line just north of the Lowville Bistro – can this part of the road be widened for cyclists? Spending some of those dollars on Guelph Line – at least up to Collard Road where the trucks turn west to get to the quarry – it is really tough to share the road with an 18 wheeler,
 Walkers Line where it intersects with the 1st side Road. There are no shoulders on this road for cyclists This investment from the province is part of Ontario’s Climate Change Action Plan and is funded by the province’s cap on pollution and carbon market. Translated that is the increased prices at the gas pumps.
The Ontario Municipal Commuter Cycling Program builds on Ontario’s Cycling Tourism Plan: Tour by Bike and the Ontario Municipal Cycling Infrastructure Program.
 By Staff
December 19th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington has several organizations that operates at arm’s length from city hall. The Art Gallery, the Performing Arts Centre and the Museums. Add the public library to that list.
Those organizations don’t have publicly elected leadership but they do have leadership drawn from the community.
 A good animated conversation. They happen often at the Art Gallery. Some are better than others in looking to the community in a very public manner for their leadership.
The Art Gallery (AGB) said in a recent statement that they “ have a strong desire to represent our community, and so we are seeking community leaders who have an interest in becoming involved at the gallery. “
“The Board of Directors and various committees at the AGB provide high-level guidance, counsel, and support to the organization.
The AGB is holding an Open House & Information Session, January 9th at 7 pm at the Art Gallery. If you plan to attend let to Alya Shah know email alya@agb.life
The current Board members are:
Tim Caddigan, Chair
Brenda Bowlby, Vice Chair
Jim Commerford, Vice Chair
Paul MacDiarmid, Treasurer
Tom Evans, Secretary
Sandra Edrupt, Past Chair
Ted Bossence
Greg Henderson
Paul Subject
Blair Lancaster, City of Burlington Representative
Bob Pring
Allan Ramsay
Roxanne Field
The AGB Board has two members from the Art Gallery of Burlington Foundation. They are:
Robert Redhead Chair & Secretary, AGBF
Kenna Danyliw, Vice Chair AGBF
Holiday Season events and program at the AGB
Open December 24, 10am – 3
pm
Closed December 25 & 26
Open December 27, 28, 29 & 30, 10am – 5pm
Open December 31, 10am – 3
pm
Closed January 1, 2018
AGB Shop Holiday Hours
Closed December 24, 25, 26 & 31
Open December 27, 28, 29 & 30, 10am – 5pm
Closed January 1 + 8 & 9 for inventory
FAMILY HOLIDAY OPEN STUDIO
DEC 23 & 30, 1 – 4 PM – ALL AGES (FREE ADMISSION)
Everyone is invited to the AGB’s FREE drop-in art studio for some creative holiday fun! Our artist instructors offer ideas as sources of inspiration and encourage visitors to engage in art and craft making. Children must be accompanied by parents or adult caregivers.
FAMILY HOLIDAY ART BREAK
DEC 27 & JAN 2, 1 – 3 PM
An opportunity for parents, grandparents, guardians and young people to share in some creative time. Our instructor will lead you through the current exhibition for inspiration then guide you through an art making workshop to create a memento of your visit.
CREATIVE HANDS HOLIDAY PROGRAM
DEC 28 & 29, JAN 3, 4, 5, 1 – 3 PM (AGES: 5 – 12)
An afternoon break for parents – no adults allowed at this 2 hour session where we will explore a variety of mediums as we get crafty. Bring your imagination!
 MP Karina Gould, on the right with a couple at a New Year’s Levee. NEW YEAR’S LEVEE
JAN 7 , 1 – 4 PM – ALL ARE WELCOME (FREE ADMISSION)
All Burlington residents are invited to the third annual New Year’s Levee co-hosted by MPP Eleanor McMahon and MP Karina Gould. Enjoy free access to the gallery including demonstrations and hands-on activities. Light refreshments will be served. No RSVP required. We will be collecting non-perishable food items for the local food banks.
Related news story:
 By Staff
December 19th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Glen Eden is preparing for its best opening week conditions in recent memory!
Cold December temperatures have allowed Glen Eden’s snowmaking team to make snow day and night over the last 10 days. The hills will be set to open this Thursday, December 21 from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Glen Eden expects to be fully operational with all lifts and trails open. The Learning Centres and the Terrain Parks will also be ready.
 A really exhilarating view. The trip down is a real high. Glen Eden is open every day from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. except for December 25 when it will be closed for the day. The latest information can be found on the Glen Eden website, www.gleneden.on.ca, as to which runs and lifts will be open, as well as the Terrain Park location, number of features and other details.
“The team at Glen Eden is looking forward to welcoming skiers and snowboarders for another fantastic season,” said Gene Matthews, Director, Parks and Recreation. “Our snowmaking team has been working around the clock to get the hill ready with the best conditions possible. We are confident all visitors will be pleased with our surface conditions whether they are learning to ski or snowboard, out enjoying some runs with family and friends, or throwing it down in the Terrain Park.”
 All the lifts are in great working order – ready for the first skiers on Thursday. In the last ten years, Glen Eden has been open before Christmas seven times, Boxing Day once and December 27 the other. The only time in the last ten years Glen Eden did not open until January was 2016. Opening date that year was January 8 during an el nino winter.
Glen Eden is home to one of the largest Learning Centres in Ontario, with a wide variety of lessons and programs for all ages and abilities. There are two Christmas Camps during the holidays. Camp #1 starts on Boxing Day, and Camp #2 starts January 2, 2018. Group lesson programs run starting on Boxing Day, there are also private and semi-private options. Visit the Glen Eden website, www.gleneden.on.ca, or call Visitor Services at 905-878-5011, ext. 1221, for more information.
 Glen Eden: They have been laying down snow for the past ten days – conditions will be great for the Thursday opening. The Terrain Park is where a lot of the action happens at Glen Eden. The “Big” Parks, Nighthawk and Falcon have upwards of 40 of the most progressive features dedicated to these two runs during peak season. Glen Eden has lots of options for keeping things fresh while pushing your limits and developing your skills.
Christmas Theme Day – December 23
Skiers and snowboarders are invited to celebrate the holidays a few days early during Opening Weekend at Glen Eden at the Christmas Theme Day on Saturday, December 23. Visitors can join in the fun and help us decorate our On-Slope Christmas Trees on the Learning Centre. Wear your Santa hats, ugly Christmas sweaters and bring your sweet tooth for some candy canes. Keep your eye out for a special guest in a red suit while enjoying the slopes at Glen Eden!
New Year’s Eve Ski & Dine – December 31
Join us for New Year’s Eve on the slopes, for music, s’mores, campfire, a ginger ale toast, dinner and more from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. The Ski & Dine package is $39 per person and includes lift ticket and dinner in the West Lodge. New Year’s Eve dinner will be snacks, salad, pasta, dessert and soft drinks. Reservations are required. New Year’s Eve Ski & Dine tickets can be purchased on the website www.gleneden.on.ca or at the Visitor Centre by December 26, 2017.
 She’s ready! Glen Eden’s Discover Skiing and Snowboarding is a lesson program for first timers and beginners and are available starting this weekend. During the season, Discover is offered weekends, holidays, and March Break from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and 6 to 9 p.m. on non-holiday weeknights. Glen Eden’s snow pros will help ensure you learn the basics – equipment, stopping and turning. By the time you complete the program you should be ready for the big hills. Discover is available on a first-come, first-serve basis unless you’re booking a large group. For groups of 20 or more people please call 905-878-5011, ext. 1278, at least one week in advance.
Glen Eden is located on Kelso Road, near Tremaine Road and Highway 401, and is a 20 minute drive from Mississauga, Burlington and Hamilton and is operated by Conservation Halton. During the season, Glen Eden is open seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. for skiing and snowboarding with the Snow Tube Park open on the weekends. For more information visit the Glen Eden website, www.gleneden.on.ca, or call 905-878-5011.
By Staff
December 19th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Not just a bunch of Old Timers strapping on the shin pads the Burlington Old Timers Hockey Club looks for situations where some help is needed and find a way to have a good time and help out others.
They did that late in November with a Christmas Dance at the Legion and raised $3,575 for Burlington Food Bank
On hand were some of the best dancers in the league and their wives! The fabulous live band for the night was SpeakEasy, featuring Lloyd Millar, from our White division and as a Special Guest Singer/Performer, 16 year- old Alyssa MacKenzie joined the band for a few songs.
Through player donations, prize table raffle tickets and a delicious Christmas Home Baked goods table the league was able to raise $3,575 for the Burlington Food Bank to help them with their ongoing contribution to our community!
 Shown here are the BOWSER Babes, BOD members, League Convenors, and Colin Ashdown (event organizer) presenting Robin Bailey (Burlington Food Bank) with a cheque for $3,575 The Food Bank is committed to ensure that no one in Burlington struggles with hunger. They provide food to those in need. In order to do that they need funding – the Oldtimers came through.
By Staff
December 19th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service is currently investigating a series of unauthorized entries into commercial establishments occurring at First Choice Hair Cutters and restaurants throughout Burlington and Hamilton.
The entries began in September of 2017 and have continued into December of 2017. Halton Regional Police along with Hamilton Police service are currently trying to identify the above suspect.
 Recognize him? Call Crime Stoppers  This is a better picture – the police would appreciate your help on identifying this fellow. Suspect Description: Male, white, 6’0″ +, thin build, 30-40 years, with short brown hair wearing a black jacket with thin white stripes running up the arms and white decals on the front chest area, dark blue jeans and dark coloured shoes/boots and black belt.
Anyone with information regarding these break and enters or can identify the male suspect responsible for them, is asked to contact Detective Constable Colin MACLEOD of the Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau, at 905-825-4747 Ext. 2357. Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers “See something, Hear something, Say something” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca, or by texting “Tip201” with your message to 274637 (crimes).
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