AGB: dramaturgy - a theatrical art form - something to be experienced

By Staff

March 25th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

This is the last month to see The Characters: Act III by Erdem Taşdelen at the Art Gallery of Burlington.  Closing April 16th, the The Characters: Act III is the final act of a three-part audio installation.

An exercise in dramaturgy and dystopian reflection, the works are based on the narratives of 30 stock characters and performed by voice actors from scripts developed by the artist.

These fictional characters are recognizable archetypes representing a specific set of behaviours or thoughts. Their defining traits are borrowed from the work of Theophrastus, a Greek author of the 4th century BCE, who produced the first known set of character sketches in history, describing types of people such as “The Pennypincher,” “The Faultfinder,” and “The Grouch.”

Peculiarly, all these 30 types, together titled The Characters, depict negative traits.

Some scholars have speculated that a supplementary volume comprising positive types must also have existed, or at least been planned. In the absence of these, however, Taşdelen’s reading takes on a comical and poignant quality through its rather bleak representation of human nature. Curated by Natasha Chaykowski, the first two acts of The Characters were presented in Calgary, Alberta at The Bows (formerly Untitled Art Society) in partnership with EMMEDIA (2019) and in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan at AKA Artist-Run (2020).

Hours:
Tuesday – Friday 12 PM – 5 PM
Saturday 10 AM – 5 PM
Sunday & Monday CLOSED

 

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Director of Education panel: Two Spirit & Transgender Awareness: Beyond Bathrooms.

By Staff

March 23rd, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The next Halton District School Board (HDSB)  Director’s Panel Series on Identity, Inclusion & Human Rights will take place on March 29th at 6:00 pm

The working title for the event is Two Spirit & Transgender Awareness: Beyond Bathrooms.

Curtis Ennis, Director of Education for the Halton District School Board

HDSB families, staff and community members are invited to the Director’s Panel Series on Identity, Inclusion & Human Rights to raise awareness on historical and contemporary issues of identity, inclusion and human rights. The next session in the panel series will be:

Two Spirit & Transgender Awareness: Beyond Bathrooms
Tuesday, March 29 at 6 – 7:30 p.m.
This will be a virtual event, with the livestream linked on the HDSB website (www.hdsb.ca).
Registration is not required.

Panel speakers include:

• Dani Araya, Coordinator, Trans Youth Mentor Program, The 519
• Andie Davis, HDSB Grade 11 student
• Lyndon George, Indigenous Justice Coordinator, Hamilton Community Legal Clinic
• Eliot Newton, Education Program Coordinator, Comprehensive Sexuality Education, at the Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity
• Stella, HDSB Grade 8 student
• Phi Trân Trinh, Program Coordinator, Positive Space Network
• Dinaly Tran, Nonbinary BIPOC Program Coordinator, Planned Parenthood Toronto

Those interested in attending the event can submit a question to the panel before or during the panel discussion through this Google Form: https://forms.gle/L5AxQvpErhR9wpkG9

Curtis Ennis, Director of Education for the Halton District School Board explains:    “Each session in the series will explore how issues of identity and inclusion intersect with education,”

“This provides an opportunity to create awareness of multiple perspectives of insight and analysis on how individual identities can be reflected and engaged in the broader HDSB community. This panel series aligns with the Board’s commitment to raise awareness of diverse community perspectives and the need to broaden resources to support inclusion and student achievement, as reflected in the HDSB’s Multi-Year Plan 2020-2024 and the Human Rights Equity Action & Accountability Plan – The Way Forward.”

Future sessions in the series include:
• Indigenous Perspectives on Decolonizing Education and Land (Tuesday, April 26 at 6 – 7:30 p.m.)
• Perspectives on Islam and Islamophobia (Tuesday, May 31 at 6 – 7:30 p.m.)

Previous panel sessions include Antisemitism: The Longest Hatred (Feb. 7) and Black Excellence: Today and Every Day (Feb. 28). Full recordings of these panel discussions are available to view on the Director’s Panel Series on Identity, Inclusion and Human Rights webpage.

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Around the Bay Race - next Sunday - expect some traffic disruption

By Staff

March 21st, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Around the Bay Road Race on Sunday, March 27, 2022, will result in road and lane closures in Burlington from approximately 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This was what the Start looked like in 2016.

Streets will reopen as the last participant passes. Vehicles parked illegally in the event area will be tagged or towed to allow emergency access. Traffic on roads next to the race route will experience significant delays. Residents are urged to use alternate routes to minimize congestion surrounding the route area.

Road Closures – 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

  • QEW Toronto-bound exit ramp to North Shore Boulevard East. Detour via Fairview Street.
  • North Shore Boulevard East Niagara-bound entry ramp to the QEW. Detour via Fairview Street.
  • Plains Road West at York Boulevard. Detour via Hwy. 6 and 403.
  • North Shore Boulevard closed from QEW ramps to Plains Road – Westbound lane open for emergency vehicles and resident access only. Through traffic not permitted.

Traffic Lane Closures – 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

  • Southbound lane of King Road from Plains Road East to North Shore Boulevard East – local access only. Northbound traffic not affected.
  • Eastbound curb lane of Plains Road West from York Boulevard to North Shore Boulevard West. Two-way traffic maintained.

Traffic Supervision

Police will be stationed at major intersections and traffic islands. Event marshals will be available at minor intersections and driveways to assist drivers. Race notices were delivered to all residences, religious centres and businesses affected by the races.

Road Closures or Traffic Control Information

Event liaison, City of Burlington, 905-335-7600, ext. 7704

Burlington Transit Delays and Information

Bus route detours in effect for Route 1 and 4.

HSR Parkdale Route 11 bus will detour via the QEW and Maple Avenue to the John Street Terminal.

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Which is it – a perogy — or perogi or pierogi or pyrohy - does it matter - be sure to order a plate full - that community needs all the help it can get

By Staff

March 20th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Which is it – a perogy — or perogi or pierogi or pyrohy — seems to depend on which part of Canada you live in.

The Ukrainians who live in Burlington are holding a Take Out sale of Perogy and sausage on Friday, March 25th; an event sponsored by the Ukrainian Catholic Women’s League of Canada as a fund raiser for humanitarian relief in that war torn country.

In Western Canada the making of perogies is an art form and has become something of as comfort food.

Strong opinions on the size, the filling and just how they are to be cooked is not something you want to argue with your grandmother about.

Perogies even have a patron Saint – ; a story that has a long and colourful history.

What is known is that the recipe came with the waves of eastern European immigrants around the turn of the last century.

Their arrival is part of the immigration story that took place – land was cheap and farm labour was needed at a time when Anglo-Canadian culture dominated everything. Discrimination was part of the life they lived.

During the First World War thousands were declared enemy aliens. Reports estimate that 8,000 were sent to internment camps.

Today the Ukrainians are vital parts of Manitoba and Saskatchewan society.

In Burlington the Ukrainians at the Holy Protection Ukrainian Catholic Church are busy making the perogies that will be on sale.

 

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City Bird poll winner to be revealed Monday evening

 

By Dave Tourchin

March 20th, 2022

BURLINGTON,

 

The Bird Friendly Hamilton Burlington team will announce the winner of their recent online public poll to select a City Bird, at the monthly “Bird Studies Group” virtual event hosted by the Hamilton Naturalists’ Club on Monday evening.

Are these swans meant to be the bird that reflects what Burlington is all about?

A guest speaker from the Bird Friendly Hamilton Burlington team, Barry Coombs, will give a presentation on the group’s efforts to get Burlington and Hamilton certified under Nature Canada’s “Bird Friendly City” Program:

“A Certification Story – Designating Hamilton and Burlington as Bird Friendly Cities”

March 21, 2022, 7:30 pm – 9 pm   A virtual event open to everyone

Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86797267165

The announcement of the public’s choice of City Bird for Burlington, and also for Hamilton, will be made near the end of the presentation.

The Bird Friendly Hamilton Burlington team was founded in December of 2020. Its primary goals are to help protect our wild birds, and to get Hamilton and Burlington certified under Nature Canada’s “Bird Friendly City” program, but the work won’t stop with certification. Learn about the status of certification and the many ongoing and future projects of this group that is dedicated to bird advocacy.

Related news stories:

Does the city need or wan an Official Bird

What are the options if there is going to be a city bird

 

 

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Ukrainian community will meet with supporter at the Polish Hall on March 26th

By Staff

March 19th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Burlington Conservative Electoral District Association is hosting a fundraising event for Ukraine Relief on Saturday March 26th from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Polish Hall on Fairview Street.

The event is free, and there is no pre-registration or entrance fee, although donations in support of the Canada-Ukrainian Foundation are welcomed.

There will be guest speakers, as well as a Question and Answer session.

 

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Foundation created to identify and fully fund creative arts and exercise programs for those living with Parkinson’s in Halton/Peel.

By Tamara Boaden

March 18th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Passion for Parkinson’s Foundation is a non-profit corporation . Our primary objective  is to identify and fully fund creative arts and exercise programs targeted specifically to enhance and support the lives of those  living with Parkinson’s in Halton/Peel.

Parkinson’s Disease is a neurodegenerative movement disorder affecting 25 new people daily in Canada.  Next to medication, exercise is the most beneficial therapy for managing this disease.

My husband was diagnosed with  Parkinson’s in 2011 and I have experienced what this debilitating disease does and understand how important these programs are for people living with Parkinson’s Disease.

In May 2021, we  launched Parkinson’s in the Park ™which offered weekly walking, exercise, and Tai Chi programs in various parks In Mississauga.

In September 2021, we  expanded the walking and Tai Chi programs to Burlington.

Based upon our success and seeing the difference it made to our Parkinson Community, beginning April 2022, we are offering  and fully funding Arts and Exercise programs in Mississauga, Oakville and Burlington. Flyers are attached.

We plan to further  expand  our programs to Brampton and Milton by 2022/23.

We need your help to increase our community reach to attract new participants, volunteers, and financial supporters. Any assistance you can offer (i.e. share with your social media feeds, post flyers/brochures on community boards.

 

 

 

 

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Traditional Ukrainian dinner - sold as Take Out only on March 25th

By Staff

March 7th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

A massive banner made up of the Ukrainian flag colours displayed at the Rally on the weekend.

This is about as Ukrainian as you can get.

A Sausage and Perogie dinner – takes place on March 25th – Take Out only.

Take out only is a pity – it is a fund raiser but it would be something else to take part in a large hall filled with people sitting at tables eating good Ukranian food with traditional music piped into the room.

There is a war going on in their country – they need all the money they can get and they need all the support we can give then.

These people are afraid, courageous yes – but afraid about what is going to happen to their families and friends who cannot get out or who have chosen to stay and fight.

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People gather publicly for the first time in years

By Pepper Parr

March 7th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

When people gather in public places there is always an interesting dynamic.

Some people are very earnest in what they say and do; others are quite passive – just there to see what’s taking place.

Pete Ward – Mayor’s husband, was on hand to take pictures and make new friends.

Orysia Foster nee Nebesny., wearing a bright headdress and full Ukrainian costume

Some of the people who were in front of City Hall Sunday afternoon caught the attention of our camera lens.

The strikingly attractive Ukrainian women in full cultural garb were everywhere.

The Mayor’s husband was taking pictures and making new friends.

The Mayor was mixing with people – fully engaged in conversation with some.

The leadership from within the Ukrainian community was issuing orders and getting flags up, donations boxes in place.

Mayor Marianne Meed Ward in conversation with a resident during the Ukrainian Rally

It was a place to do a little politicking, to meet old friends and to be around hundreds of people and not HAVE to wear a mask.  Many did.

 

If you didn’t know where you were supposed to go – this woman, Natalia Nebesny, was making sure you did know.

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Ukrainians Rally in front of city hall

By Pepper Parr

March 6th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

They were out on the street, doing what they could to draw attention to the plight of their fellow countrymen.

They lined Brant Street smiling when horns were honked – a couple of hundred taking part in a Rally that was being repeated across the country.

The whole world knows; the whole world waits, praying that a peaceful end will be found.

For the 250 to 300 people who gathered on Brant Street – they didn’t seem to have a permit to use Civic Square and didn’t really care.

They wanted people to know and they wanted to be able to gather and draw what energy and hope was there for them.

Many of the politicians were seen – quite why the MPP was asked to speak was hard to understand. She was brief.

The priest from the Ukrainian Catholic Church said a prayer – different to see hundreds of people crossing themselves as the prayer was spoken.

He may not have fully understood the language but he was there nevertheless with his parents supporting a country he may not even know.

Orysia Foster nee Nebesny was everywhere – wearing that smile and letting is see what a Ukrainian dress looks like. So much colour.

Quite a few people wore their bright cultural clothing – one can’t call them costumes. Would that Canada had a history as colourful to display – the best we can do is a hockey sweater.

The event was put together on very very short notice by people from a part of the community who are quiet, hard working – industrious.

They take part in Canada Day fully aware of how fortunate they are to be in Canada and while their home country has had its problems, none of them thought it would come to what we are experiencing today.

The best they can do is gather, support each other and raise badly needed funds.  And hope.

 

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Drury Lane Theatre Productions: on stage March 18th to April 10th

By Pepper Parr

March 5th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The pent up energy and creativity in the community is slowly coming out of the restrictions imposed by various levels of government

Drury Lane Theatrical Productions will revive their annual Music Hall at The Loft at 2269 New Street, running March 18th to April 10th, 2022.

Burlington’s favourite and longest running review show returns as the 41st Music Hall premiering on March 18th and will again showcase the great music of today and yesterday and the talents of members of our community in a celebration of Music Theatre.

From left to right: Anne Kelly, Carrie Mines, Sheila Flis Photo credit – Merise Designs

With Direction from Gregory Flis and Music Direction by Donna Dunn-Albert, you’ll laugh and sing along with our talented cast of Misses (Sheila Flis, Anne Kelly, Carrie Mines, Stacey Tiller and Jennifer Welosky) and Misters (Randy Bridge, Bill Everett, Don Montgomery, Evan Delvecchio-Williams and Chairman Gregory Flis).

Join them as they celebrate the return to live performance after months of darkened stages with recognizable classics from Adele to Sondheim to the Old Tyme British Music Halls of the Victorian era.

Drury Lane’s Artistic Director, Carol Mackenzie explains, “Artists are aching to get out of Zoom rooms and onto a real stage where they can stretch their artistic muscles and experience the true joy of performance and connection with an audience. And audiences are starving for laughter and the energy of communal experience.  There is no better place to do that than the theatre – and at Drury Lane’s Music Hall.”

An audience member described one of our past shows saying, “Music Hall is like a “kitchen party” with music you live by, love with, cry because of, laugh at and sing along with. Music Hall is a belly laugh married to a tear rolling down your cheek.”

Buy Tickets and learn more about Music Hall at www.DruryLane.ca or call our Box Office at 905-637-3979. Follow us on Instagram (DruryLaneTheatre) and Facebook for more fun and information.

Celebrating its 47th Season as Burlington’s premiere musical theatre company, Drury Lane Theatrical Productions, a charitable non-profit organization, plays an important role in Burlington’s Arts & Culture fabric. In a normal year, Drury Lane impacts over 10,000 patrons, artists, musicians and volunteers providing the joys of stage musicals.

 

 

 

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Looks like the Sound of Music is going to fill the air in June

By Staff

March 4th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

With the Covid19 restrictions being lifted and the new infections numbers and hospitalization getting lower and lower – is there not a good reason to begin thinking about the Sound of Music?

They have put out their call for volunteers which means they are working on a boffo program for the summer.

Imagine the Sound of Music floating up from the lake and lower Brant Street packed with visitors.

Click here and become part of the party

The Sound of Music takes place the week leading up to Father’s Day! This year, our Club Series kicks off on Sunday, June 12th and the festival in Spencer Smith Park runs from Thursday June 16th to Sunday June 19th, 2022

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Beautiful Things To Do And See In Burlington, Ontario

Jeannie Lojstrup
March 2nd, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON

It’s safe to say that when people discuss tourism and Canada, they won’t mention the beautiful town of Burlington, Ontario. It’s simply not as spectacular as other destinations in Canada, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do or see there. As a matter of fact, Burlington is not supposed to be spectacular. At least not in a way most people are used to when it comes to spectacular things. If you didn’t know, Burlington is a quiet town located near the heart of the beautiful Lake Ontario. That means it has the unique ambiance and a soul of a lake town. If you’re planning a vacation in Burlington, you will experience a peaceful journey that will teach you to enjoy the little things. Here’s what to do and see in Burlington.

Spend A Wonderful Afternoon At Lowville Park

If you want to spend a peaceful day and enjoy the wonderful scenery Burlington has to offer, you should go to the Lowville Park and have a picnic with your loved one. There, you can enjoy fresh air, peace, and mild sounds of water. The beautiful nature at Lowville Park will heal your soul and you will feel like a new man or a woman at the end of the day.

The Royal Botanical Gardens – splendid any time of year.

Wander The Royal Botanical Gardens

For people who love flora, the Royal Botanical Gardens is definitely the best thing in Burlington. The wonderful site has both magical indoor and outdoor gardens and 27kms of nature trails you can explore. While you’re walking through the gardens you will have a chance to see 2,400 plant species. You have to admit, that’s a wonderful experience, especially for people who love plants. However, seeing many species of plants is not the only thing you can do at Royal Botanical Gardens. If you would like to try delicious local cuisine, you will be happy to know that there are two on-site restaurants with spectacular dishes made from vegetables and fruits from local farms. If you get tired on your walk, you should know that there is a teahouse where you can take a break and enjoy a cup of tea.

Eat Fresh And Delicious Food At Springridge Farm

If you’re looking for delicious local food, then you simply must visit the Springridge Farm. The heavenly farm is located just north of the city and it has a lot of fresh domestic produce to offer. The food is fresh because it’s seasonal. That means, if you want to eat fresh strawberries, you have to come during summer. The local men and women will tell you that the food is amazing, but that’s not the only thing this farm has. At the Springridge Farm, you can play games and experience the wonders of farm life.

A quaint little spot in the downtown core with a couple of fine restaurants and a great cigar store

Explore The Village Square

As we already said, Burlington is a small city and like most small towns, it has a beautiful and intimate village square. It’s safe to say that the square looks like it’s from another time. It’s like you strayed into a TV show that tells a story of an older and simpler life. If you want to have a peaceful afternoon you simply must go to the village square. Sit at one of the coffee shops, order a coffee, and simply breathe the wonderful ambient this town has. Admire the old buildings you won’t find anywhere else. The old houses will tell you the stories of the past life while you drink your delicious coffee.

Brant Street Pier

The Pier – pride of the city on the edge of one of the largest lakes in Canada

The most beautiful thing when it comes to Burlington has to be the Lake Ontario. The best way to experience the beautiful lake is to go to the Brant Street Pier. There, you can walk the peaceful beach and breathe the fresh air. The Brant Street Pier is beautiful any time of day, but if you want to see the spectacular beauty this town has to offer, you should go to the beach late in the afternoon. That will give you a chance to see the most beautiful sunset in your life. The best thing is, when the night comes, you don’t have to go home. There are a lot of events you can attend and a lot of fun things you can do at the beach at night.

Final Word

As we said, when people discuss Canada and tourism, they usually won’t mention Burlington town. That’s because Burlington is a small town and people simply don’t know what it has to offer. If you read the article, you saw that the town on the coast of Lake Ontario has a lot of beautiful things to offer people. If you plan on exploring Canada, make sure you go to Burlington and experience the wonders of a small lake town.

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Burlington welterweight Mike Malott to make UFC debut in April

By Keith Sundaram

February 28th, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Mike Malott is a 24-year-old Featherweight contender.

Tae Kwon Do, Karate, Boxing, and finally MMA were all a part of Malott’s fighting experience that began in 2007. Dalhousie College in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia attracted Malott. In 2010, Malott began learning Muay Thai and Boxing at Titans Gym Academy, his personal gym.

Since being active in combat sports, Malott has competed in Ufc, Grappling, Kickboxing, Muay Thai, and Judo, both as an enthusiast and a professional. As a result, he has an extremely diverse fighting style.

In May 2012, he made his professional MMA debut by submitting James Saunders in the first round. To pay for his opponent’s flight from Toronto to Trenton, Nova Scotia, Mike Imperato (3-0) forfeited his prize 6 weeks later. Mallot, competing for free, submitted Imperato by armbar in the second round. Malott stated this in an interview following the bout: “This fight was a freebie for me. This isn’t a job for me; it’s a hobby that I enjoy. I’d gladly pay for this experience, and I’ve already done so as an amateur.”

How Malott joining the competition will affect Canada’s UFC betting industry

UFC betting is gaining a lot of popularity in Canada thanks to a massive rise in viewership, having all these Canadian fighters join such a major global competition, Sports lovers from all across Canada are supporting their fellow local athletes as much as they can in an attempt to bring their nationality to the top of the leaderboards. Mike Malott is an incredible fighter and since he will debut in the UFC this April, we are sure to be seeing an upsurge in Canadian views on the UFC, as well as Canadians betting on the sport, since he will be deemed as the underdog by the oddsmakers, there will be a good chance for people who bet on him to make a significant profit.>

How to join in on the UFC betting action in Canada

For long-term success, it’s frequently more than simply fortune that is required. This is also true in the Octagon, where competitors rise to the challenge when the chips are down. Betting on the UFC, like other professional sports, might be challenging, particularly for those who are just casually interested in MMA. However, this does not rule out the possibility of profiting from UFC wagering. To learn more about the different MMA betting markets, get exclusive UFC betting tips, and how to earn a profit while betting on the world’s most intense contact sport, it’s ideal that players looking to have some wagering fun to turn to trustworthy sources of reliable information to learn all there is to know about the top trustworthy online sportsbooks for UFC events providing UFC betting odds, MMA betting odds for other mixed martial arts leagues, including Bellator fights.

Is it possible to profit from UFC betting?

You’ll have to put in some effort if you want to profit from any sports gambling possibility. Everybody would do it if it were simple, there would be no winners.

To be a good UFC bettor, you’ll need a variety of skills and information in addition to a basic understanding of the sport. Even the most ardent UFC fans might not have been the best bettors in the business.

An individual admires too much the favorite combatant. To put it another way, if you’re a big fan of Connor McGregor, you probably love seeing him compete.

However, you must be realistic and accept the possibility that he will lose. Even more so if the opponent he faces is well-matched against him.

There are five defeats on McGregor’s record as an example. A superb submission artist might put him in serious jeopardy, as four of his victories have come by submission thus far.

Another approach to profit from UFC gambling is to select the sort of bet you want to put down. The most popular types of wagering include money lines, over/under round totals, and means of winning.

The Moneyline is a prediction of the winner of the bout. The number of rounds the fight will last before it is declared a draw is known as the “over/under” or “tallies” wager. After that comes a forecast of how you think the winner will be victorious, whether by knockout or submission.

In order to have a long-term winning streak and to place the greatest wagers, you must be able to decipher odds. So, let’s take a closer look at the UFC betting odds.

What formula is used to determine the UFC’s odds?

When a duel is scheduled, the gambling industry adjusts the worth of the boxers in the matchup.

A money line choice is the most typical type of line you’ll come across.The odds will shift somewhat in favor of specific combatants as more bets are placed on them. A sportsbook will modify the odds if too many people bet on one boxer, making it more enticing to gamble on the other.

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Parts of city web site to be down March 3rd for scheduled maintenance

By Staff

February 25th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Some City web applications and online forms temporarily unavailable for scheduled maintenance March 3

On Thursday, March 3, 2022, the following applications and forms will not be available starting at 10 p.m. until Friday, March 4 at 2 a.m.:

  • Burlington calendar
  • Application to search for City parks and facilities
  • The City’s online job application platform

This maintenance work has been scheduled in the evening hours to limit the disruption.

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Halton Black History Awareness Society sponsoring an Essay Contest.

By Staff

February 23rd, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Halton Black History Awareness Society (HBHAS) is a passionate group of multi-culturals, dedicated towards implementing cultural education into the public and institutional mindset towards appreciating the values of inclusivity, equality, and self development while depleting bullying, prejudice and inequality on any and all levels.

We are a “community” globally focused on mitigating negative relations towards all marginalized communities and individuals.

Our mission is learning, uncovering and promoting Canadian Black History towards a progressive inclusive future through annual events including the Halton Freedom Celebration: Jazz & Blues Festival, the Emancipation Art Exhibition, a HBHAS Gospel presentation, and HBHAS Presents –  speaking engagements to the public, elementary, secondary, university & college students;  businesses; youth mentoring; community groups; and, historical, genealogical and heritage organizations.”At this moment, we all face a choice. We can choose to press forward with a better model of cooperation and integration, or we can retreat in a world sharply divided and ultimately in conflict.” – President Obama, United Nations General Assembly Conference.

“Halton is the fastest growing visible minority region in Canada growing 78% within a five year span with Milton growing 176% in visible minority growth within the same time frame.” – Canada Census 2016.

“Burlington is the first city in the world to acclaim August as Emancipation Month” – 2018 Halton Freedom Celebration Festival – Dwight Lee III

“The Emancipation process started in the Burlington/Branford/Hamilton area, where two parliamentarians seeing a Joseph Brant slave screaming at her bounty hunter abductor, due to the Fugitive Slave Act in the U.S., took this incident back to Parliament initiating the Lieutenant Governor in legislating the 1793 Act against Slavery which abolished new slaves being brought into what is now Canada.; This promoted the, August 1st, 1834 British Abolition against slavery in most of the Commonwealth.”

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Best 2022 Sporting Events in and Around Southern Ontario

By Jack Adams

February 23rd, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

As Canada’s most populated province, it is no surprise that Ontario is one of the most popular sporting areas in country. With a whole host of athletes and sports team spread across leagues in Canada and the United States, there has been some huge events in the state in recent years, with local fans enjoying the successes of their teams also. In 2019, millions of fans flooded downtown Toronto following the Toronto Raptors first ever NBA Finals triumph. Two years prior, MLS side Toronto FC beat the Seattle Sounders 2-0 in the MLS Cup final at BMO Field.

With such a rich sporting history, we can only expect more to be made in 2022. Let’s take a look at some of the best sports events yet to come in the state.

You will never leave a hockey game thrilled – the speed, the talent and the sheer hustle of the game.

Ottawa Senators vs Toronto Maple Leafs – Apr 16 2022
One of the NHL’s biggest rivalries, The Battle of Toronto is not to be missed. Dating back since before the founding of the league, the Maple Leafs, as the Toronto Arenas, and the original Senators were two of the founding teams of the NHL. It was not until the 90s however that games between the modern Senators and the Leafs played each other in the league, when the conferences and divisions were re-aligned, and Toronto was moved into the Eastern Conference’s Northeast Division. The Leafs have frequently got the better of the Senators when it has mattered in recent years, with Toronto winning all 4 series when they met in the playoffs in the early 2000s. It appears the Senators may struggle this season too, with betting odds having them at 500/1 to win the Stanley Cup.

We call it soccer in Canada – Canadian teams are getting better and better. Is a World Cup in store – not soon but eventually.

Toronto FC vs Montreal Impact – Sept 5 2022
From one rivalry into another, the ‘Canadian Classique’ also known as the 401 Derby and the Two Solitudes Derby, is Canadian soccer’s fiercest rivalry. Battled between two of Canada’s three premier MLS teams, the rivalry between both sets of supporters is intense, creating an incredible atmosphere at games. This year’s MLS fixture at the BMO Stadium will be a rematch of last season’s Canadian Championship, in which Montreal came out the victors securing their spot in the CONCACAF Champions League. However, Toronto have regularly had Montreal’s number, with a 26-16-10 record in all competitions. The fallout from last year’s Canadian Championship final is sure to spill over into this game so make sure not to miss it!

Toronto Raptors vs Philadelphia 76ers – Apr 7 2022
The Raptors have had a relatively average season so far but are still on course to make it to the play-in tournament in their quest to make it 3 playoff appearances in 4 seasons. The 76ers are also hopeful of reaching their 5th appearance in as many seasons. As well as being important to both team’s journey to the playoffs, this game will also be a rematch of the 2019 Conference semi-finals in which the Raptors came out on top before heading to the finals and winning the big one. Although they may not be playing as well as previous seasons, the Raptors still hold on to their talisman Giannis Antetokounmpo. The ‘Greek Freak’ is worth the entry fee alone and with both teams relatively close together in the Eastern Conference standings, this is sure to be a crunch game for the pair.

Rivals for decades – located at either end of the QEW – they will always turn out a great performance. Hamilton came close to taking the Grey Cup – very close,

Hamilton Tiger-Cats vs Toronto Argonauts – Aug 13 2022
Make no mistake about it— physical proximity in Ontario does not equal sporting warmth. The bitter feud between these two Ontario teams is one of the best in the Canadian Football League and provides an incredible sporting display for fans. The Argonauts have been extremely successful in terms of Grey Cups with 18 to the Tiger-Cats 8. However, the pair’s Labour Day matchups have been most frequently won by the latter, who have recorded 36 wins to 13. The Toronto—Hamilton Classic is one of the components of the Harold Ballard Trophy, an award given to the winner of the season series between the Tiger-Cats and Argonauts. The trophy is named after Harold Ballard, who owned the Tiger-Cats for much of the 1980s.

World famous Harlem Globe Trotters – more entertainment than sport – and a delight to watch.

Harlem Globetrotters – March 8 2022
Ending on an entertaining note, the World-Famous Harlem Globetrotters are bringing their newly reimagined Spread Game tour to Ontario this year. Described as a display of ‘Ankle-breaking moves, jaw-dropping swag, and rim-rattling dunks’ the Globetrotters are an American exhibition basketball team who combine incredible feats of athleticism with comedy and theatre. They have been committed to spreading joy and a beautiful message of social justice for nearly 100 years as they have entertained millions all around the globe. They will come to the Budweiser Gardens in London, with tickets as low as $28.75.

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Last three days for the Share the Love Food Bank drive

By Pepper Parr

February 17th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Three more days to Share the Love and share the food you purchase with the Burlington Food Bank.

The drive that started last Sunday has collected 350 lbs of Food and $1400 in cash and gift card donations.

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Merrilee and Don Fraser have worked tirelessly making telephone calls and picking up food donations.

The food donations are still needed; the local economy is not yet back to normal.

Related news story.

A unique group of people making a difference.

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Family Day - have you decided what you want to do?

By Staff

February 16th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

City of Burlington administrative services will be closed for Family Day, on Monday, Feb. 21. For a list of which City services and facilities are available on the Family Day holiday weekend, please see the summary below or visit burlington.ca.

*Important information regarding COVID-19: The information provided below is accurate as of Feb. 14, 2022. In the event of any changes made by the Province of Ontario to current COVID-19 public health measures, please visit burlington.ca/coronavirus for potential impacts to City services and programs.

Residents can also stay informed about city news on our social media channels: @cityburlington on Twitter and facebook.com/cityburlington.

City Service Holiday Closure Information
Animal Services

 

To report an animal related emergency on a statutory holiday, please call 1-888-264-3135.

The Animal Shelter at 2424 Industrial St. remains closed to the public due to COVID-19, however services are ongoing. For more information, call 905-335-3030 or visit www.burlington.ca/animal.

Burlington Transit Burlington Transit will operate a Sunday schedule on Family Day. For real-time bus information and schedules visit myride.burlingtontransit.ca.

The downtown terminal at 430 John St. and Specialized Dispatch will be closed.

City Hall The Service Burlington counter, temporarily located on the second floor at City Hall (426 Brant St.), will be closed to all appointments on Monday, Feb. 21.

Many service payments are available online at burlington.ca/onlineservices.

Halton Court Services – Provincial Offences Office Court administration counter services at 4085 Palladium Way will be closed on Monday Feb. 21.

With the exception of the Family Day closure, telephone payments are available at 905-637-1274, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. All in-person services are available from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Many services are also available by email at burlingtoncourt@burlington.ca or online at Halton Court Services.

 Parking Free parking is available downtown, on the street, in municipal lots and in the parking garage (414 Locust St) on weekends and holidays.

NOTE: The Waterfront parking lots (east and west) do not provide free parking on statutory holidays.

No on-street parking is permitted during a snow event and parking exemptions are cancelled during this time. On-street parking can resume after the snow event has been declared over by Roads, Parks and Forestry. Follow burlington.ca/snow.

Recreation Programs and Facilities Indoor drop-in activities such as swimming, skating, and drop-in gym times are offered on a reduced schedule over the Family Day weekend, please visit burlington.ca/dropinandplay for program times and online registration.

Looking to plan a private skating or shinny time for your family group? There are still limited hourly ice rink rental times available at Appleby Ice Centre. For booking requests, please email rentals@burlington.ca.

Burlington has a wide variety of outdoor activities to enjoy with your family during the winter season including:

  • disc golf at Tyandaga Golf Course, 1265 Tyandaga Park Dr.
  • skating
  • tobogganing
  • trails and multi-use paths
  • parks and playgrounds.

Find out more at burlington.ca/outdoorplay.

Our Lending Library has winter outdoor equipment available to borrow at no charge. Visit burlington.ca/playlending for details.

Burlington Rotary Centennial Pond will be open daily for outdoor skating, weather conditions permitting. Pre-registration is not required. For more information, visit burlington.ca/pond and remember to check ice conditions before leaving home by calling 905-335-7738, ext. 8587.

Roads, Parks and Forestry The administrative office will be closed on Monday, Feb. 21.

Essential services, including winter control, will be provided as required.

Burlington is a City where people, nature and businesses thrive. As residents continue to rediscover many of their favourite spaces and activities in the city, City services may look different as we work to stop the spread of COVID-19. The City’s commitment to providing the community with essential services remains a priority. Sign up to learn more about Burlington at Burlington.ca/Enews and follow @CityBurlington on social media.

 

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City Council Workshop: A closer look at our relationship with the Indigenous community

By Pepper Parr

February 15th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Monday afternoon City Council held an Indigenous education workshop. It was, unfortunately not widely promoted by members of Council or the city’s communications department.  Unfortunate.

The name Joseph Brant is well recognized; his role in the development of the land that was territory the Indigenous people lived on is not that well understood.

They own precious little of that land today.  The workshop is about how that came to be.

The Mississauga of the Credit First Nation lay claim to a large area; the part known as the Haldimand Tract is tightly tied to Joseph Brant.

Over time land was taken from the Indigenous community through different treaties.

There were two main speakers who had a lot to say. You might want to listen to:

Darin Wybenga, Acting Director and Traditional Knowledge and Land Use Coordinator, Mississauga of the Credit First Nation, who  spoke on; “Mississauga of the Credit First Nation – We are Still Here.”

Indeed they are

There was a time when the majority of people living in what is Canada today believed what the Indian Act said.

Following Darin Wybenga is Bryant Peters, College Instructor at Fleming College and Executive Consultant from the Sandy Bay Ojibway First Nation, who spoke about the:  Indian Act – What Can We Do?

It looked at one point if Peters was going to read every section of the Indian Act – a very repressive piece of legislation that is still in place.

Both speakers made extensive use of visuals and maps.

It should be well worth your time to spend some time listening to what was said.  We will have more to tell you about this Workshop later in the week.

Burlington, like most local governments, now reads a land acknowledgement before each meeting.

If Darin Wybenga is correct, and he probably is, our reference to the Bowl with one spoon wampum is incorrect.  Look for Council to correct that error.

Wampum belts were used as signatories to commemorate and, to some degree, legitimize an event.

The biggest lesson this writer learned was the significant difference between what the Indigenous people thought when they were signing a land treaty and the view the British had.

The British believed they were acquiring land which they described and defined in the treaties; the Indigenous people believed they were agreeing to share the land.

They were either not able to or didn’t know how to get that language into the treaties.

As a result they are left with bits and pieces of the land they inhabited. The 4 million acres they started with was whittled down to 200 acres.

And we wonder why they are angry.

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