 By Gazette Staff
August 10th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
This event closes at the end of August.
Given our relationship to water – without it we wouldn’t be here, this should give a perspective on water you may not have had.
Worth the time – AGB is a great place to spend a few hours in the hot, muggy weather we are experiencing.
Drawing from digital archives and physical postcards, Leila Fatemi explores the connection between photographic representation and props, which often symbolize societal status.
 Vessels that bend water In A Vessel to Bend Water, she critically engages with the historical representation of women from the SWANA (South West Asia and North Africa) region in photography, particularly in Orientalist imagery, by focusing on the vessel—a recurring motif that reinforces colonial ideologies and constrains women’s roles.
The vessel is often used as a metaphor for confinement, while also suggestive of ideas related to domestic labour, nourishment, and gathering. Photographic depictions of vessels underscore broader issues of gendered representation and systemic marginalization and, in the histories of women from SWANA regions that were, in the nineteenth century, problematically depicted in opposition to the West and in relation to European powers as “the Orient”—highlight how women’s bodies were defined and controlled through the lens of colonial power. A Vessel to Bend Water demonstrates how imagery of women holding, hoisting, carrying, and leaning on water vessels was frequently used to undermine women’s agency, subjecting them to imposed identities and societal expectations.
The project spans various mediums, including collage, textiles, cyanotypes, lenticular prints, ceramics, and photolithography on clay, reinterpreting and disrupting conventional forms of photographic representation. These interventions challenge the objectification of women by questioning the power dynamics and limitations imposed on their bodies. Through images drawn from Fatemi’s personal collection and the Getty Institute’s Ken and Jenny Jacobson Orientalist Photography Collection, the work engages in a dialogue with historical visual artifacts, emphasizing the need to deconstruct and reinterpret oppressive narratives. Using collage techniques like redaction, tearing, and erasure, Fatemi disrupts the preciousness of these images, forcing viewers to reconsider their implications.
 The project spans various mediums, including collage, textiles, cyanotypes, lenticular prints, ceramics, and photolithography on clay, reinterpreting and disrupting conventional forms of photographic representation. During a residency in the AGB clay studios from January to April 2025, Fatemi explored new methods of making and presenting her work for the exhibition. Working alongside the studio technicians and artist-educators, she further experimented with integrating printmaking techniques into her practice, merging photography with ceramics.
In addition to testing image manipulation, Fatemi began reimagining the idea of the vessel itself by pulling the form, as depicted in an archival image, and re-constructing it into a living object. Over the course of the exhibition, unfired clay vessels will slowly disintegrate under the weight of water, returning them to a raw state. Water vessels, once muted in photographers’ studios, now become active agents in their own story. By erasing the utility of the physical vessel, Fatemi underscores its futility in the original archives, breaking down what constitutes a photographic prop to erode the historical narrative.
The Art Gallery of Burlington is supported by the City of Burlington, Ontario Arts Council, and Ontario Trillium Foundation. The AGB’s learning programming has been sponsored by the Burlington Foundation and the incite Foundation for the Arts. The 50th Anniversary Exhibitions have been sponsored by the J.P. Bickell Foundation.
 By Gazette Staff
August 8th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
There was an error in the first edition of this story; we are indebted to a Gazette reader for catching the error
The only Council meeting scheduled for August will take place on Wednesday, the 13th. One interesting item on what is a short agenda is the decision to:
Refuse the applications for Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment submitted by MHBC Planning on behalf of Losani Investment Corporation proposing a 25-storey mixed use building with 240 residential units and 475 square metres of non-residential use at-grade at 127 Plains Road West.
 Site of a proposed 240-unit – Council is expected to refuse the application  Rendering of the proposed development.  Row of high-rise towers on the south side of Plains Rd. west; almost directly across the street of the proposed development site.
 By Pepper Parr
August 9th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Hot, humid weather, but Jazz on the Plaza is taking place this afternoon.
Jay Davis and Amanda Martinez entertained last night.
Today there are three performances: Alex Pangman at 2:00 Eliana Cuevas at 3:15 and Mark Lalama and Friends at 4:30.
There is a cash bar to keep you cool.
This is a free event.
By Gazette Staff
August 9th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
There are six Guilds at the Burlington Art Gallery.
They are the foundation on which the current gallery was built.
All Guilds Show
 There is an All Guilds Show running from August 23—September 9, 2025 in the Lee-Chin Family Gallery
The All Guilds Show showcases the artists who make and learn at the AGB.
If you ever wondered if being part of a Guild might be for you – make a point of attending. You’ll find a lot of welcoming faces and people waiting to help you learn
This 50th Anniversary exhibition celebrates the invaluable contributions the Burlington guilds have made to their communities by nurturing creativity, preserving artistic traditions, and fostering lifelong learning.
 By Gazette Staff
August 8th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 What if the pooch lifts his leg at an inappropriate place? A heat warning has been issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada for August 9 2025.
Residents can stay cool at all designated Burlington Public Library branches during library open hours.
On extreme heat days, pets may come inside with their owners to cool off.
 By Gazette Staff
August 8th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The City of Burlington is building its newest community centre, the Robert Bateman Community Centre.
 Scheduled to open officially September 15th. This community centre will be a multi-purpose, community-focused facility that includes tenants such as Brock University, Burlington Public Library, Halton District School Board, Tech Place, and the City of Burlington.
To recognize Robert Bateman’s distinguished career and connection to Burlington, the City of Burlington is seeking Expressions of Interest from professional artists or artist teams to create a community mural inspired by Mr. Bateman’s book Backyard Birds.
 Using Bateman’s wildlife paintings as a point of inspiration, the selected artist(s) will design a mural in their own artistic style.
This Call for Artists is open to artists working in a variety of styles and mediums.
The intention is not to reproduce Mr. Bateman’s artwork style but to use Backyard Birds as a point of inspiration.
Deadline: Monday, September 8, 2025
Budget: $15,000 CAD (Design Only)
CLICK HERE for more detail and submission form
 By Gazette Staff
August 8th, 2025
BURLINGTON,
The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) will be closing two lanes of the QEW Niagara Bound from Friday, Aug. 8 at 10 p.m. until Monday, Aug. 11 at 5 a.m.
During this time, all ramps from the Eastport Drive Collector to the Skyway Bridge will be closed.
Burlington Skyway Bridge Closure
As part of our project on the QEW/Burlington Bay Skyway Bridge (Niagara Bound), the contractor is working on the rehabilitation of the QEW Niagara Bound lanes of the Burlington Bay Skyway bridge and will be closing 2 (two) Niagara Bound (Eastbound) lanes (out of 4 existing lanes) for bridge deck rehabilitation.
Specifically:
- 2 (two) lanes out of 4 existing, on the QEW Niagara Bound will be closed from 10:00pm Friday August 8, until 5:00am Monday August 11, weather dependent.
- Within the weekend lane closures, the QEW approaching the bridge will be fully closed on:
-
- Saturday morning, August 9 at 1am to 3am.
- Monday morning, August 11 at 1am to 4am.
Advance signing and notification will be provided to motorists so they can plan an alternate route.
 By Gazette Staff
August 8th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The city of Hamilton celebrates hometown hero and global basketball superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) for his record-breaking 2024-2025 NBA season.
Before the football game began, the city of Hamilton presented SGA with three local tokens of appreciation:
 Ron Foxcroft with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander A street sign that will mark a section of his choosing along Mohawk Road — where SGA grew up — as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Way from ward representative, Coun. Mike Spadafora;
a golden basketball from Canadian Basketball Hall of Fame member Ron Foxcroft;
and the second-ever key to the City of Hamilton, presented by Mayor Horwath and a group of city council members.
 By Gazette Staff
August 8th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
We live in a very delicate world.
Change is taking place wherever we look.
The unexpected is everywhere.
What a treat to look out the window in the morning and see these two animals – innocence is the word that comes to my mind.
 By Millicent Mills
August 8th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Online entertainment in Canada has exploded in recent years, offering an ever-growing range of services from streaming platforms and eSports to online gaming and virtual reality experiences.
While the digital world provides countless entertainment opportunities, it’s essential to navigate it carefully. Not all platforms are equal regarding safety, security, and regulation.
In this guide, we’ll explore the importance of choosing regulated online entertainment platforms, the role of provincial authorities in ensuring safety, and how you can enjoy the digital world with peace of mind.
The Importance of Regulated Online Entertainment
The first thing Canadians should understand when seeking online entertainment is the significance of regulation. Online entertainment can cover various activities: watching movies, playing video games, engaging in competitions, and even playing online games at a Canadian casino platform.
 Choosing regulated services is crucial for protecting your privacy, ensuring secure financial transactions, and providing a safe environment for entertainment. However, some platforms operate under strict regulations, while others do not. Choosing regulated services is crucial for protecting your privacy, ensuring secure financial transactions, and providing a safe environment for entertainment.
Provincial authorities monitor platforms operating within Canada’s regulated framework, ensuring they adhere to guidelines designed to protect users. Regulated platforms must provide secure payment methods, transparent terms and conditions, and responsible usage controls to promote a safe online experience. This is especially vital when it comes to online gambling and gaming, where unregulated sites can put your data, money, and security at risk.
Whether watching your favourite TV show on a streaming platform or participating in an online eSports tournament, knowing the platform is legitimate and follows proper regulatory guidelines gives you peace of mind.
Choosing the Right Platform for Online Entertainment
The first step in finding a trustworthy online entertainment platform in Canada is ensuring it’s regulated. Whether you are interested in online casinos, streaming services, eSports, or even digital art and games, choosing a regulated platform ensures you engage in a legitimate and secure service.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Regulated Platform:
- Licensing: A regulated platform must be licensed by the appropriate authority. For example, in Ontario, platforms must be certified by iGaming Ontario or the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). In British Columbia, the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) oversees PlayNow.com, the province’s only legal online gambling platform. Make sure any platform you choose displays its licensing information clearly, and check if Canadian authorities recognise it.
- Security and Payment Methods: Secure payment methods are a non-negotiable feature of regulated platforms. Platforms should use encryption technologies to safeguard your personal and financial information. Regulated sites will also provide various reliable, secure payment options, making depositing and withdrawing funds easier when necessary.
- Responsible Entertainment Tools: Regulated platforms provide a range of tools to ensure users engage with entertainment responsibly. This includes setting limits on time and money spent, offering self-exclusion options, and implementing age verification measures to prevent minors from accessing the platform. These tools are critical for ensuring that entertainment remains fun and does not lead to problematic behaviour.
- Customer Support: A regulated platform will provide access to responsive and accessible customer service channels, such as live chat, email, or phone. This ensures that you can get help quickly if something goes wrong, such as a technical issue or a problem with a transaction.
How to Recognize Red Flags: Avoiding Unlicensed and Unsafe Platforms
While most regulated platforms are easy to identify, some unregulated or unsafe sites are designed to lure unsuspecting users. Knowing how to spot warning signs can help you avoid platforms that can risk your privacy and finances.
Red Flags to Watch For:
- Lack of Clear Licensing: Unlicensed platforms often won’t display licensing information, or they may claim to have approval from non-reputable or fake regulatory bodies. Always verify a platform’s licensing by checking the relevant authorities’ official websites.
- Unrealistic Promotions: Flashy bonus offers, such as “500% deposit bonuses with zero wagering,” may sound appealing but often come with hidden terms or impossible conditions. If the offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- No or Poor Customer Service: A platform that doesn’t offer live chat, phone support, or reliable email communication is a major red flag. You should always be able to contact the platform’s support team quickly and easily.
- Delayed or Blocked Withdrawals: If a platform makes it difficult to access your funds, it’s likely a scam. Legitimate platforms will facilitate withdrawals promptly and without unnecessary complications.
- No Age Verification: A regulated platform will always verify the age of its users to prevent underage access. If this step is skipped, the platform may be unregulated and unsafe.
By avoiding these red flags, you can ensure that you enjoy online entertainment safely, securely, and responsibly.
Provincial Agencies and Their Role in Regulating Online Entertainment
Canada’s provinces each have agencies dedicated to regulating online entertainment. These agencies enforce laws and set standards to ensure platforms adhere to the necessary fairness, security, and player protection guidelines.
Ontario
 In Ontario, iGaming Ontario (iGO) and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) regulate and oversee the online gaming sector. iGO partners with private operators to ensure they meet provincial standards, including verifying player identities and enforcing responsible gambling practices. Operators licensed by these agencies must adhere to strict security, fairness, and consumer protection rules.
AGCO ensures operators maintain compliance with anti-money laundering standards, conduct fair games, and provide transparent financial transactions. Together, these bodies monitor and enforce regulations that ensure a safe and secure online environment for all users.
British Columbia
 In British Columbia, the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) oversees PlayNow.com, the province’s only legal online gambling platform. BCLC ensures that PlayNow.com follows strict regulations related to responsible gaming, financial transactions, and player protection. This includes implementing age verification, deposit limits, and self-exclusion tools.
In addition to regulating online gambling, BCLC educates players through programs like GameSense, which promotes responsible gaming and provides resources for those who may need help managing their entertainment habits.
Other Provinces
Other provinces, such as Quebec, Alberta, and Manitoba, also have their regulatory frameworks and platforms monitored by provincial bodies. For example, in Quebec, Loto-Québec operates the regulated online platform EspaceJeux, offering residents a wide range of gaming options. Each province’s regulatory body is dedicated to ensuring that online entertainment is safe, secure, and adheres to national standards.
Conclusion: Stay Smart, Play Safe
Choosing the right online entertainment platform is essential for enjoying a safe and enjoyable digital experience. You prioritize your security, privacy, and peace of mind by opting for regulated and licensed services.
Whether you’re streaming your favourite shows, competing in eSports, or exploring online gaming options, knowing that your platform is legitimate and properly regulated ensures that you protect your information and minimise risks.
Remember to check for licensing, use secure payment methods, and take advantage of responsible gaming tools. If you ever feel unsure about a platform, don’t hesitate to research it thoroughly or choose a more trusted alternative. The digital world offers abundant entertainment—just ensure you enjoy it safely and responsibly.
 By Pepper Parr
August 7th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Aquatic Devilrays (BAD) said they needed 50 hours of pool time every week when they filed their RFP (Request for Proposal the City issued.
 “It is new pool time we negotiated,” said Calderbank. Kimberly Calderbank, volunteer president of the Devilrays said at the time that her club could get by with 40 hours.
They have 35 hours, which means some programs might have to be dropped.
Registration is taking place and by the end of the week, Calderbank and the team she works with, will have figured out what they are going to be able to do this season and accept what they have to work with for the next four years.
What BAD has been able to do is get time at the Ron Edwards Family YMCA pool, a “game changer” from Calderbank’s perspective. “It is new pool time we negotiated,” said Calderbank.
GHAC – the Golden Horseshoe Aquatic Club has time at every city swimming pool while BAD has time at: Nelson, Centennial, and Angela Coughlan.
GHAC got additional swimming pool time as a result of the RFP they won, through what many people think was a flawed process.
What everyone is waiting for is what does each club have in the way of members registered for the fall programs.
  Is the 80% Burlington resident requirement still in place? And what if GHAC membership does not meet the 80% Burlington residential requirement?
I don’t think this story is over yet.
What the Gazette would like to see if a fair, independent look at what really happened during the determination of who won the RFP.
The fear many have is that the city will try to sweep everything under the rug.
By Gazette Staff
August 7th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
At first glance, building a tower out of toothpicks or launching a balloon rocket might just seem like play, not reading. But STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) and literacy go hand in hand. In fact, hands-on learning can strengthen some of the most essential literacy skills for growing readers.
What STEAM Teaches Beyond Science
STEAM starts with science, but it doesn’t end there! When kids engage in STEAM activities, they’re also:
 When kids engage in STEAM activities, they’re also: Building vocabulary – Kids learn new words like balance, gravity, dissolve, or predict in meaningful hands-on contexts.
Practicing sequencing – They follow multi-step instructions and describe what they did in order, using words like first, next, then, and last.
Improving comprehension – They connect what they read (in a story or instructions) to what they observe, build, or create.
Developing communication skills – They ask questions, explain ideas, and reflect on what happened. These are key parts of both science and storytelling.
 Check out these engaging picture books that explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) in fun and accessible ways. Each title includes a simple activity idea you can try at home — perfect for sparking curiosity, creativity, and hands-on learning in young readers! bplearly Pairing STEAM with storybooks makes learning even more powerful. A story can spark curiosity, introduce a challenge, and help children connect big ideas to their everyday world. Stories help bring STEAM ideas to life, making them more relatable and easier to remember.
STEAM at Home
You don’t need fancy gadgets or expensive ingredients for STEAM learning at home. Everyday household objects can be the perfect tools for creative discovery. Try these easy ideas with what you have on hand:
- Plastic cups: Build towers, bridges, or try stacking challenges and sound experiments.
- Cardboard boxes or tubes: Make ramps, marble runs, or invent something new!
- Straws: Design and launch paper rockets or building structures and shapes.
- Toothpicks or spaghetti: Construct bridges or 3D shapes.
- Water bottles: Make a sensory bottle, lava lamp, or mini tornado in a bottle.
- Cereal or pasta: Count, sort, and make patterns.
- Buttons or bottle caps: Use them for measurement, pattern play, or crafts.
- Glass jars: Grow a seed, get a closer look at an insect, or make a musical instrument.
Explore, Discover, and Create with Us
Looking for more inspiration? Here are a few ideas from Children’s Librarian Kathleen:
- Try a story-inspired experiment – Read a book together and then encourage your child to come up with an experiment related to the story’s problem. Check out the booklist below for STEAM-filled picture books.
- Get outside with non-fiction – Pick out a non-fiction book about bugs, birds, flowers, or trees, and then head to your backyard or local park. Ask questions and investigate! Our always-available OverDrive/Libby ebooks are a great place to start.
- Join a library program – Explore hands-on fun at one of our upcoming STEAM programs for kids.
Looking for More Ideas?
Need a little inspiration? Our friendly librarians and programmers are always happy to help you make the most of your library. Come visit us—we’re always happy to see you.
By Gazette Staff
August 6th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Talking about Food for Feedback: How’s this for Feedback
A Gazette reader commenting on an article about engaging the voters:
“it’s an apathetic situation but, the Burlington politicians have figured out that the apathy is their best asset — the fewer people paying attention, the easier it is to hide behind coffee shop photo ops and empty platitudes.
Real engagement? Real accountability? Forget it. They’ve mastered the art of looking busy while doing nothing, knowing full well that most residents have tuned out — not because they don’t care, but because council stopped listening a long time ago.
 One politician giving another a medal: Former MP Pam Damoff on the left with Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward. Residents don’t want filtered chats over coffee, or excuses or spins. They want timeliness and transparency.
MMW and Council should display some humility and listen without having their egos get in the way of progress.
Stop cherry picking cozy events. Don’t bury important decisions behind reports and consultants and committees.
Stop using social media as a broadcast channel. Start using it to listen.
And, importantly, if MMW or council members fail to attend meetings, ignore constituents, or dodge accountability, there should be visible consequences.
Ouch!
By Gazette Staff
August 6th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Ontario government is continuing to deliver on its plan to protect the province’s health-care system by investing $56.8 million to train 2,200 additional nurses.
By expanding the number of nursing training and education seats at publicly assisted colleges and universities across the province, the government is building Ontario’s pipeline of highly skilled nurse practitioners, registered nurses and registered practical nurses that are needed to meet the growing need for more nurses in Ontario hospitals, long-term care homes, community health centres and primary care clinics.
 Training nurses is complex; a lot of different approaches are used. Here manikins are used to illustrate the procedures during the birth of a child. “Nurses are an integral part of Ontario’s health-care system, providing life-saving and compassionate care when patients need it the most,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. “Our government continues to expand nursing enrollment in our colleges and universities to ensure we are building the health-care workforce we need to protect Ontario health care and ensure people can continue to access excellent care, close to home.”
Ontario is also expanding registration in innovative, flexible online nursing training to help personal support workers and registered practical nurses seeking to advance their education. Through these online pathways, personal support workers can pursue a Practical Nursing diploma at colleges and registered practical nurses can obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at Ontario’s colleges or universities.
Students or job seekers interested in nursing careers can visit My Career Journey to learn more about becoming a registered nurse or a registered practical nurse.
“Our government is continuing to take bold action to protect Ontario’s health-care system,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “By ensuring more people can become nurses in Ontario, we are building on our progress to strengthen the province’s world-class nursing workforce for years to come.”
In addition to expanding nursing enrollment, the province is providing a one-time investment of $7.5 million to help universities purchase nursing clinical supplies and laboratory equipment. This funding will equip nursing students with cutting-edge tools for hands-on training to the skills they need to thrive in their career.
“Our government is improving long-term care by training, hiring and retaining thousands of health-care workers,” said Natalia Kusendova-Bashta, Minister of Long-Term Care. “As a registered nurse, I know how impactful these investments will be to ensure we have the staff to deliver high quality care to Ontario’s long-term care residents.”
This expansion, announced in the 2025 Ontario Budget: A Plan to Protect Ontario, is the latest step in connecting every person in Ontario to connected, convenient care by addressing health human resource needs and supporting the growing demand for health-care professionals, including in long-term care homes.
 Nursing is much more than looking after patients and taking care of bedpans.
- Since 2018, Ontario has supported a record-breaking number of new health-care professionals in joining the workforce, adding nearly 100,000 new nurses to the workforce, with another 30,000 students currently studying at Ontario colleges and universities to become nurses.
- Through the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant, the government is increasing the number of nurses, paramedics and medical laboratory technologists in communities of greatest need across the province.
- Since its launch in 2023–24, the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant has provided over $96 million in support to more than 8,200 students.
- Through this investment, 15,000 users will be able to register in the online nursing pathway programs.
- In June, Ontario announced it is expanding its nursing workforce with a $4.2 million investment to accelerate nursing programs and add seats in rural and northern programs.
By Gazette Staff
August 6th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Aquatic Devilrays (BAD) announced a bold new chapter in the club’s history: a partnership with the Ron Edwards Family YMCA in Burlington that will expand access to aquatic training, support local athletes, and deepen our impact in the community.
As part of the City of Burlington’s recent pool allocation process, BAD has secured 18 hours of pool time per week at City facilities for a four-year term beginning in the 2025 season.
More on the whole story is needed
That’s nice news: what the Gazette would like to know is how much time they were given in each of the four indoor swimming pools in the city and how much time in those outdoor pools that are suitable for training.
Statement from the Burlington Aquatic Devilrays (BAD):
“The Burlington Aquatic Devilrays can confirm it has secured 18 hours of pool time per week at City of Burlington facilities for a four-year term, beginning with the 2025 season.
This agreement enables BAD to continue delivering a comprehensive range of swim programs—supporting athletes from the grassroots level through to high-performance training. It reflects our ongoing commitment to providing safe, structured, and competitive swimming opportunities for youth in Burlington.
We remain steadfast in our focus on athlete development, community engagement, and maintaining the highest standards in aquatic sport. As we move forward, BAD will continue to lead with integrity, collaboration, and a deep passion for growing the sport of swimming locally.
 Devilrayes in training The Burlington Aquatic Devilrays are proud to continue our legacy of excellence and service, and we thank our families, coaches, and supporters for being an essential part of this journey.”
To complement and extend its programming, BAD has launched a new partnership with the Ron Edwards Family YMCA in Burlington, providing access to both pool space and dryland training facilities. This collaboration enhances BAD’s ability to deliver high-quality technical instruction and age-appropriate strength and conditioning, supporting athlete development across all levels. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to youth wellness, accessibility, and long-term athlete growth.
Statement from Manny Figueiredo, President & CEO, YMCA Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford:
“YMCA Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford is proud to partner with the Burlington Aquatic Devilrays to support local athletes and families through expanded access to aquatic training and wellness opportunities.
This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to advancing health, youth development, and community inclusion. By providing additional pool time and dryland training at the Ron Edwards Family YMCA, we’re helping more young people stay active, build lifelong skills, and thrive through sport.
Together, we’re helping to strengthen aquatics in Burlington and create more opportunities for youth to stay active and thrive.”
As we embark on this new chapter, we are proud to welcome back our returning athletes and grateful for their continued commitment to the club. We also look forward to welcoming new families into our community. We are grateful to the Ron Edwards Family YMCA for joining us as a new community partner, helping enhance our athlete development programming through access to additional technical training and wellness resources. Together, we are continuing to build a vibrant, inclusive, and high-performing swim culture in Burlington.
About the Burlington Aquatic Devilrays (BAD)
The Burlington Aquatic Devilrays (BAD) is a not-for-profit, community-based swim club that has served Burlington youth for over 40 years. With a focus on development, leadership, and inclusion, BAD supports swimmers from learn-to-swim to national-level competition. We are proud to build not just strong athletes, but strong citizens.
 By Pepper Parr
August 6th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
For those who grouse about how little Liberal MP Karina Gould does – listen up
 Karina Gould: Burlington MP She chairs the House Finance Committee, which will have a compact schedule in the fall.
The House Finance Committee faces pre-budget time crunch ahead of fall tabling of the budget
The amount of influence the House Finance Committee can have on a government budget is debatable, say observers, who note the fall schedule could provide an opportunity to adjust the process.
If anyone has the skill set to change a process – take a close look at what Gould will be doing.
She is an expert on House Committee rules – watch for some changes.
A new Prime Minister leading a government that has dedicated itself to re-directing the economy from the north-south that we have lived with for several decades to something that is much more east west and looking for opportunities in Europe and South East Asia will mean a budget that will look a lot different.
Putting a budget together while the country deals with a less-than-stable Donald Trump, who has more than he expected in the way of his own personal troubles, on his plate means being both cautious and bold.
 By Gazette Staff
August 6th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
A message from the Burlington Library leadership:
 Set up and construction crews are on the site getting everything ready for the opening on September 15th We’re counting down the days until the New Appleby Branch opens at the Robert Bateman Community Centre.
In anticipation of the move, we’re sharing some important dates and updates for current customers, plus a sneak peek at the latest construction progress.
Important Dates for New Appleby Customers
Mark your calendars! The new branch opens on September 15. Here are important dates to know leading up to the move:
- Wednesday, August 13: Last day to place holds for pickup at the current New Appleby Branch.
- Friday, August 15: Last day for all programs (including drop-in programs) at the current New Appleby
- Friday, August 22: LAST OPEN DAY at the current location and the last day to pick up holds. After this date, the branch will be closed to the public while moving activities are underway, so library services, holds pickup, and book returns will be unavailable.
- Monday, September 15: OPENING DAY of New Appleby Branch at 5151 New Street.
Winding Down Appleby
As we prepare for the big move to our new location, you may notice emptier shelves and fewer programs at our current New Appleby Branch. We want to extend a sincere thank you to our current New Appleby customers for their patience and understanding during this transition period. We’re almost there!
Share a Memory
Visitors to New Appleby Branch can pay tribute to the current branch, which has been in its current location since 1989, by sharing a favourite memory on our message board.
 Sharing the memories. Goodbye messages from New Appleby customers are on display at the branch.
Construction Progress
Check out the photos below to see the latest construction progress. The chairs have arrived, giving visitors lots of places to sit, and workers are completing finishing touches of the interior and exterior.
 A view of New Appleby Branch looking inwards towards the entrance.
By Pepper Parr
August 6th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Disruption is not something new that began around 2000. It is an elemental part of every economy – defined as significant changes in the economic environment that can lead to instability, unemployment, or shifts in industry.
 You could sell anything anywhere: The service killed the very profitable classified advertising section in just about all the daily newspapers. We are just experiencing this disruption much more frequently. When Craigslist was introduced, it resulted in the end of classified advertising in newspapers which eventually led to the end of thousands of daily newspapers and the introduction of online newspapers; the Gazette was the first to appear in Burlington.
Uber meant almost the end of traditional taxi service. There are dozens of other examples.
Some levels of society don’t lend themselves to any disruption all that easily.
Public education is one example. Teacher unions have a huge impact on the kind of changes that get made. One of the positive things that came out of the 2020 pandemic was that teachers were forced to use digital applications to teach students virtually when classrooms were closed. There are those that think we no longer need teachers; that computer applications can do it all. Maybe. The need to have one-on-one interactions and teachers at the head of a classroom answering questions is going to be hard to do away with.
But what about the municipal sector? Is there room for major disruption?
The difficulty at the municipal level is not so much the unions but the grip that the municipal mindset and culture, that is deeply ingrained, has on what gets done. And things don’t happen all that quickly in the municipal sector. Add to all that the organizational structure with elected people at the very top. Burlington has a very small city council given the size of the city. The current council has been in for two terms and the residents could end up with the same seven; less than 30% of the voters bother to show up.
Where can disruption take place?
Some municipalities use a Reference Panels and Citizens’ Assemblies approach to making decisions. A firm is brought in to create a panel that is representative of the makeup of the community with balance including gender, income, education age. Issues are put before this panel jury and they come up with a recommendation that a city council is expected to adhere to or give really good reasons for not following the recommendation.
The Halton Regional government has used MASSlb very effectively. Burlington chose not to use any outside help and instead chose to use the IAP2 model. And look where that got us.
 It was the Promise to the Public section that grates on the minds of many people. There will be more on this. Let’s see how the Gazette readership responds.
 By Joseph A. Gaetan BGS
August 6th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The following is an excerpt from an information package prepared by the Landlord Tenant Board (LTB),
“Your landlord has applied for above guideline rent increase for one or more of the following reasons listed on page two of the attached application.
1 Extraordinary increase in municipal taxes.
There is no limit on the percentage rent increase above the guidelines allowed for an extraordinary increase in the cost for municipal taxes and charges”
 Municipal tax increases fall on renters as well as property owners. Landlords can apply for permission to increase rent that is Above the Guideline Increase amount.
The close to two hundred renters in this rental building could soon see their rent rise well beyond Ontario’s legislated 2.5% cap. Under Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, landlords can apply for an AGI (Above Guideline Increase) if their municipal taxes or charges increase by an “extraordinary” amount, defined as exceeding 1.5 times the annual rent increase guideline.The 2025 total residential property tax increase in Burlington including city, region, and education levies was 5.82%. Landlords of rental properties are eligible under Ontario law to recover such costs through rent increases that exceed the annual guideline.
Landlords Also Feel the Pressure of Tax Increases
While renters are understandably concerned about the possible rent hikes, many landlords argue they are facing a financial squeeze of their own. With operating costs rising, including maintenance, insurance, and utilities, the significant jump in property taxes has left many with no option but to apply for rent increases. Landlord advocacy groups have long argued that Ontario’s rent control system makes it difficult to keep rental housing financially viable, especially in cities like Burlington where municipal tax hikes have outpaced inflation for a number of years. This year, the rent guideline is 2.5%, meaning landlords can apply for an AGI if their municipal taxes rose more than 3.75%. Burlington’s increase of 5.82% surpasses that threshold, and rental property owners are already signaling that they will seek rent hikes to recover their rising costs.
If approved, AGIs can add 3% or more to the regular rent guideline, meaning some Burlington tenants could face rent increases of 5% or more in 2025—and potentially again in 2026, when a further 4.49% tax increase is forecast.
To impose a rent increase above the guideline, landlords must
– Give tenants at least 90 days’ written notice;
– Await approval at a hearing before collecting the higher rent.
 This now annual event is an opportunity for you to talk to your council member. Tenants do have a right to challenge AGI applications including
– Attending and speaking at the LTB hearing (in person or remotely);
– Arguing whether the tax increase truly meets the “extraordinary” threshold;
Time for Burlington to Tighten Its Belt
As Burlington continues to increase property taxes to maintain services and infrastructure, renters could become the unintended financial shock absorbers The ripple effect is especially concerning for seniors, students, and low-income households who already spend a disproportionate portion of their income on rent.
Some Burlington residents say the city must also be held accountable for the financial pressures cascading onto landlords and tenants alike. Local taxpayer advocates, including long-time resident Eric Stern, have been vocal about the need for Burlington to control its spending and reduce future tax increases, “You can’t keep taxing your way out of structural inefficiencies,” Stern said during a delegation to City Council. “It’s time Burlington starts budgeting like households do—based on what’s truly affordable.”
Following are the year-over-year Burlington tax increases:
Time Frame Increase
2022 – 2023 15.57%
2023 – 2024 10.21%
2024 – 2025 8.9%
2025-2026 ??
The Bottom Line for Renters:
Renters in Burlington should brace for potential 5% rent increases in 2025 and beyond particularly if they receive a formal notice from their landlord. Staying informed, engaged, and prepared to respond at a hearing may help protect household budgets from steep new housing costs tied to rising municipal taxes.
All Taxpayers and Renters
With residents on all sides of the rental equation feeling squeezed, calls need to made asking for the City to revisit its fiscal priorities before more people are priced out of their homes or the housing market altogether.
Renters, you may not have much of a voice at the L.T.B. but bear in mind you have the following options:
1 Delegate at a City Council Meeting as they are now looking at the next level of increases that will hit your pocketbook one way or the other.
2 Attend upcoming public town hall meetings, starting in September:
Sept 13- Budget Booth- Food for Feedback- Central Park
Sept 18- Ward 6- Haber Community Centre
Sept 22- Ward 1- Lasalle Park Pavilion
Sep 23- Ward 2- Burlington Senior Centre
Sept 24- Ward 3- Brant Hills Community Centre
Sept 29- Ward 4- Tansley Woods Community Centre
Oct- 2- Ward 5- Appleby Ice Centre
Nov- 5- Telephone Town Hall
For further details see link:
2026 Budget | Get Involved Burlington
On top of that, let your councilor and the mayor know what you think by sending them an email.
 Joseph A. Gaetan BGS is a Burlington resident who writes frequently on matters that concern the citizens of the city.
By Pepper Parr
August 5th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Engagement can be a double-edged sword.
 It got to be a little too much for this delegation – she had to take her cane off the table and use to to lean on while she shifted herself from foot to foot. Delegations are made to stand before Council like surfs with their hats in their hands. We need to upgrade our manners. A relatively small group presses the city for better engagement; the city gets frustrated when there is a very small response to the surveys they put out.
There is a small group of people who want more in the way of engagement with the city; they want their concerns addressed.
The majority, however don’t really care. They will howl when something that has a direct impact on them goes kaflooey.
Burlington struggles to get a 30% turnout at elections.
There is a form of malaise in the air. There are a lot of people who aren’t sure of which ward they live in; what little they know about their ward councillor comes from the photo ops.
 A classic Kearns photo op. And in Burlington – photo ops are basically the prime political currency.
They are easy and they deliver the message: “I am out there representing you.”
That sort of works – but it isn’t healthy and sooner or later it comes back to bite you in the bum.
Council members aren’t really engaged – the public really doesn’t want to dance with them.
And so we trudge along.
We are going to follow up on this – look at what other communities do and why it can be made to work.
There was an occasion at the Performing Arts Centre where the Mayor of Burlington and the Mayor of Oakville debated (it was more of a discussion that was poorly facilitated)
What surprised many was hearing Mayor Burton tell the audience that Oakville had more than a dozen very active community organizations. That was eye popping.
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