Art Gallery looking for community leaders - information session January 9th

eventsgreen 100x100By 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.

AGB people

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!

Levee Gould welcoming a new Canadian

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:

 

 

 

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Glen Eden to open Thursday the 21st - they have been making snow for the last ten days.

sportsgold 100x100By 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.

GlenEden from top of hill

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.”

Glen Eden lifts

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 hills

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.

glen_eden_ski_snowboard_area_2_159582

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.

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Breakfast at Tom Thomson - same thing happens at most schools - Food for Thought feeds 26,000 across the Region every week.

News 100 blueBy Staff

December 17th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

At the end of the week thousands of students will be out of school and home for the holidays – returning to their classes on January 8th.

Another calendar year behind them and time to think about, talk about and plan for the balance of the school year.

Gym full of kids

The Gazette visit to Tom Thomson took place when there was a Region wide event that was piped into every school. All the students gathered in the gym for the event.

 

It may well be a year during which the Board of Education closes a school – that decision will become crystal clear in 2018. Lester B. Pearson high school parents are still going door to door drumming up support for a community initiative to somehow keep that school open.

Households with children in school have an attachment to the school there children go to that starts early in the morning and runs through to well into the late afternoon.

Fresh Fruit and veggies

The food is fresh and there is plenty of it.

At Tom Thomson elementary school the program for students begin at breakfast where there are two programs for students; one run by the YMCA that involves caring for the students and the other a walk in for any student that wants to meet with friends and didn’t catch breakfast at home.

The program is put on by a volunteer group of parents. Some of the students come from households where the family income doesn’t quite cover all the costs – others are students who want to meet with their chums and do what elementary students do these day.

A Regional Police liaison officer spends time at both Tom Thomson and Brant Hills – alternating between the two; parents from the community work as volunteers getting the food ready and serving the students.

Thurman - dling out fresh fruit

Dania Thurman serving fresh fruit to a student at Tom Thomson elementary school.

Dania Thurman, a parent very active in the campaign to keep Central high school open, is one of the parents that shows up a couple of days a week and spends some time with the 60+ students who show up before she has to scoot off to her full time job.

Kids in corner - eating breakfast

They gather in corners and sit wherever they can – having breakfast and getting caught up with friends.

The students troop into the gym, dropping their knapsacks on the floor and heading for the group of friends they meet up with – cell phones in hand.

The program takes place every day of the week – they have been doing this at Tom Thomson for the past six years.

They feed between 60 to 70 students with the grub coming from Food for Thought a Region wide program that works with elementary and high schools to ensure that every student has access to a proper breakfast.

The Food for Thought history isn’t uncommon; a grassroots group of people who identify a problem and come together to form a solution.  In this case, one of the strongest groups you can have behind your cause are the parents that get the job done.

These Parents noticed that not every child at school had food in their lunch box or that many kids had food that didn’t contain enough nutrients to fuel their minds and bodies for learning.

In 1997, the parents came together and formed an advisory committee to oversee the first 6 official Student Nutrition Programs in Halton.  Fast forward to 2007, just ten years later, and HFFT became an incorporated, registered, charity with its own Board of Directors and 63 programs.

As of September 2017, HFFT has partner programs in 130 schools across Halton and feeds more than 27,000 students a week.  We have over 2,100 volunteers (including 930 students) and dozens of community partners who all work together to feed students in their communities.

Boys playing

The students that show up get more than half an hour to play in the school gymnasium. These two are waiting for a game to get started.

Girls playing

Some skip, others play a team sport.

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A celebration of food - made by the kids - shared with their parents.

eventsblue 100x100By Staff

December 8th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Terra Madre Day is Slow Food’s annual day to promote the diversity of food traditions!

Children age 7-10 are invited to join us for this free workshop to work on a United Nations Nutrition Badge.

UN badgeLearn about food safety, food planning, seasonal fruits and veggies. International students will share traditional vegetable dishes from their countries. Families are invited to join at the end of the workshop to celebrate their child’s success and try some of the international dishes.

For ages 7-10 years
Student Theatre Centre, 2131 Prospect Street
Sunday Dec 10, 1-4pm

Register for free

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Should the Sound of Music Festival be given an additional day for ticketed events. Let then know what you think.

News 100 blueBy Staff

December 7th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Sound of Music Festival wants to add another day to their already existing paid event which is held the weekend before the festival, on Sunday, June 10, 2018 from 1 to 9 p.m. and would like to know if there is community support for the second event.

The short, one-question survey will be open until Dec. 14, 2017.

Sound of Music will get no sympathy from Alexandre Kubrak were she to be elected a Council member. She thinks the event should be looking for additional sponsors - she's not the only one with that thought.

Sound of Music wants to add an additional ticketed event day. City wants to know what you think.

The festival has had a paid event since 2015 to support performances on the Father’s Day weekend and help ensure a quality festival for years to come.

In 2017, a second event was added to help celebrate Canada 150 which was very well attended.

Sandra Maxwell, supervisor of Festivals and Events explains:

“The Sound of Music Festival organizers have approached the city to ask if they can host another paid ticket event as a way of financially supporting the four-day festival on Father’s Day weekend. We would like to know if there is community support and appetite for this sort of event and encourage all residents and people of surrounding area to provide their input into this short, one-question survey.”

Dave Miller, executive director of the Sound of Music Festival adds that “… the success of last year’s additional day on Sunday, June 11 in honour of Canada 150 and the growing popularity of the ticketed Kick-off Concert, we’re hoping to have the Kick-off event for Sound of Music Festival 2018 running for two days instead of one, making it a full weekend experience.

“Proceeds will support overall costs of the event including stages, security and great musical talent.”

The Sound of Music organization has not made any comment on how much they earned from the additional day nor what they did with the extra income. A bit more transparency would be appreciated.

LINK to the survey.

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This could be fun – a holiday wine exchange! 🍷🍷🍷

eventspink 100x100By Staff

December 6th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

This could be fun.

Former ward 4 candidate for the public Board of Education seat Margot Horne Shuttleworth has gone public with in a Facebook message to her wine loving friends.

Holiday Wine Exchange – forget the cookies —  who wants 36 bottles of wine?! 🍷🍷

The weather outside is frightful, but the wine is so delightful…

Who wants to participate?

wine bottlesI need a MINIMUM of 6 participants to join in a holiday wine exchange. Buy ONE bottle of wine valued at $20.00 or more and deliver it to one person. That’s it!

I will PM you the name/address and in return you will receive 6 – 36 bottles of wine!! (# of bottles depends on the number of participants).

Let me know if you are interested and I will PM you the information. Please comment on this post if you’re in. Just keep in mind, you only have to buy ONE bottle valued at a minimum of $20.00 and, if everyone participates, you can receive up to 36 bottles of wine!!!

Only comment if you are really going to participate. If you say you will and don’t, it doesn’t work for everyone else. Give it a try. It could be fun and you could stock up for the holiday season with the purchase of only ONE bottle!!….. you need to be local…. but should be fun!!

Margo Horne- Shuttleworth on Facebook at –
https://www.facebook.com/margo.shuttleworth/

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Free taxi service for those donating blood week of November 7th to 10th - book your appointment.

News 100 redBy Staff

November 6th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Blood graphicThere is a huge need for more blood donors. A car accident victim could require up to 50 units of blood to survive, and a patient with leukemia could need up to 8 units of blood per week.

In Burlington, the need is for approximately 252 blood donations per week to meet the needs of our local hospital.

This year, Burlington MPP Eleanor McMahon is hosting a community blood drive to help meet the target. Please consider making a donation during November 7-10, 2017 at the Canadian Blood Services’ Blood Donor Clinic located at 1250 Brant Street.

To book your appointment or to arrange free taxi service, please contact Erica Hung at Erica.Hung@blood.ca or 289-213-1742.blood dates

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Burlingtonians want to know much more about aging - tickets to the event sold out.

News 100 redBy Staff

November 1, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

This is the kind of problem our Mayor likes to have. Listen in.

Moses Znaimer was invited to present his “New Vision on Aging” that is to take place on November 7 at the Performing Arts Centre

Znaimer Moses“The response for this event has been amazing, and we have completely “sold out”. Our wait list for tickets currently sits at 80 requests.

“If you have registered but are unable to attend, we ask that you kindly cancel your ticket or contact mayor@burlington.ca This will enable staff to release tickets to those on the wait list.”

He should be in the same situation next October.

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Board of education has put out a call to all the three year olds - pay the school a visit and learn what you will be doing for the foreseeable future.

News 100 yellowBy Staff

October 27th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Beginning school is a big step for parents and children. The Halton District School Board wants to make that transition as smooth as possible.

Students at Lincoln Centennial public school. Ontario school boards are struggling to find low-cost options to school additions to accommodate full-day kindergarten. Some options may include bussing kids. Reading are Heyley Ta and Zeynep Coskan-Johnson. Feb 21 2013. Bob TYmczyszyn/St. Catharines Standard/QMI AGENCY

Inquiring minds

Throughout November, three-year olds and their parents/guardians are invited to attend one of four Kindergarten Open Houses to learn about starting school next year.

Drop by any one of the following open houses between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Georgetown Thursday, Nov. 2, 2017 — Park PS (6 Hyde Park Dr.)
Burlington Thursday, Nov. 9, 2017 – Bruce T. Lindley PS (2510 Cavendish Dr.)
Milton Thursday, Nov. 16, 2017 – Tiger Jeet Singh PS (650 Yates Dr.)
Oakville Thursday, Nov. 30, 2017 – West Oak PS (2071 Fourth Line)

At the Open House, families will:

• Explore a Kindergarten classroom
• Learn about play-based learning
• Pick up information and resource material in a free backpack
• Access information about community agencies and resources in Halton
• Get information about before and after school care
• Connect with special education staff to discuss any developmental concerns

Children born in 2014 can start Kindergarten in September 2018.

Registration for Kindergarten begins in January 2018 and takes place at the school your child will attend.

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Tyandaga residents to meet for updates on where there fight to prevent a brick company from quarrying in their back yards.

eventsgreen 100x100By Staff

October 25th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Those folks in the west end that have a quarry in their back yards are ramping up for their next community meeting.

Meridian Brick has a license to operate a quarry – it was given to them in 1972.
Since that time a number of rather high end homes have been built yards away from the back yards of these homes.

Full TEC site

The two pink patches are existing quarries that are close to mined out. The green space to the left of the marker is where the brick company wants to quarry next – all the trees would have to go.

The residents believe they have been poorly served by the city and the real estate industry in the way they weren’t properly advised that the quarry did have the right to start digging.

Tyandaga Environmental Community is going to meet on November 16, 2017, 7pm-9:30pm at the Crossroads Centre, 1295 North Service Road.TEC stop quarry expansion Jul17

Gord Miller,former Environmental Commissioner of Ontario and David Donnelly, Environmental Lawyer, former executive director of the Canadian Environmental Defence Fund will be speaking

Meridian Brick has announced that they will be holding a follow up community meeting at the same location on November 29th – starts at 7:00 pm.

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Mayor announces his intention to run for re-election.

SwP thumbnail graphicBy Pepper Parr

October 18th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

It wasn’t a great surprise – if he wasn’t employed as the Mayor what would he do?

Inside Halton published a report that had Burlington Mayor Rick Goldring announcing earlier today that he would be seeking a third term in the 2018 municipal election.

Inside Halton went on to say that the Mayors used “…the Niagara Escarpment as a backdrop where the Mayor was joined by his wife Cheryl and children Stephanie and Lisa.

When asked why he was making his intentions known almost a year away from next year’s municipal election, Goldring replied the main reason was because so many people were asking him if he was planning to run again.

Goldring defends turf 2

Mayor answering questions during a ward 4 debate.

“And I thought this was the best way to let the community know what my intention is and that is to register in early May as a candidate,” he said.

Registration for candidates in the mayoral, Councillor or school board trustee races officially opens May 1, 2018.

Goldring said he specifically chose to make his announcement in north Burlington because the 100 per cent commitment by previous and current councils to maintain 50 per cent of the city (in the north) as rural.

“As we grow as a city, it is critical we maintain and enhance the 50 per cent of Burlington that’s in the greenbelt,” he noted.

The community would never have come into being were it not for the building of the 407 highway. That decision opene4d up land that was part of rural Burlington. Alton Village is bounded by the 407, Walkers Line on the west and Appleby Line on the east with Dundas making up the southern boundary.

The rural-urban boundary – defined by Hwy 407and Dundas is not going to ever be changed by cit council.

Burlington’s city council couldn’t change the regulation that has the land north of the Hwy 507 – Dundas Boundary and permit major residential development. The province and the Region would slap the city something silly if they even talked about such an idea.

The Mayor has created a straw dog.

If re-elected, Goldring said he would continue to bring what he has in the past to the office of the mayor.
“I think that’s the attitude of one of service, an attitude of collaboration, connecting with the community on a regular basis, as well as help provide direction to the city going forward, which I have done for the last seven years,” he explained, noting he didn’t see being mayor as a job, but rather a vocation.

“I’m fortunate to be the mayor, I take it very seriously. I’m honoured and privileged each and every day to do the role.”

They all say that – and Rick Goldring does take his job seriously.

During the release of the 2017 Vital Signs report by the Burlington Foundation, chair Ron Foxcroft, who likes to loosen up an audience with a little humour, told the story of Rick Goldring’s NHL career (there was of course no such things but when Ron Foxcroft is on a roll – there is no stopping him) he said there was just one thing missing – talent.

Ouch!

Goldring called the role of mayor a challenging one and currently facing a challenging time as the city is embarking on a path to adopt new municipal plans.

“I’m invigorated and inspired at the opportunity to continue to lead the city going forward,” he added.

“I look forward to the opportunity to continue to work with council, staff and the community in continuing to build and have a great city that is in fact the envy of the country and continues to be the best medium-sized city to live in Canada.”

That is part of the story – but only part. The reality is that Mike Wallace is out there beating the bushes and holding small events at various locations in the city where he meets with invited guests to re-introduce himself and measure what he might have in the way of support.

Mike Wallace wants to be Mayor so bad he can taste it.

Quite why Rick Goldring wants a third term is something one can only speculate about. He has not managed to do anything of any significance in his first two terms.

Still no Code of Conduct for city council members; Goldring sloughed that off to the city manager who is expected to come back with something – sometime.

Still no private tree bylaw – and for a committed environmentalist that is close to unconscionable.

This graphic sets out the issue. The two pieces of land at each end are owned by the city and will be turned into Windows on the LAke. The piece in the centre is owned by the city and the province. The three property owners want to purchase that centre piece and make it private property. Other people want to see a pathway through the property running from Lakeshore, down Market Street along the waterfront and up St. Paul back to Lakeshore. City council voted t sell the land in the center.

This graphic sets out the issue. The two pieces of land at each end are owned by the city and will be turned into Windows on the Lake. The piece in the centre is owned by the city and the province. The three property owners want to purchase that centre piece and make it private property. Other people want to see a pathway through the property running from Lakeshore, down Market Street along the waterfront and up St. Paul back to Lakeshore. City council voted t sell the land in the center.

The land at the edge of the lake between Market Street and St, Paul is gone forever – thank your Mayor for that one. The city owned the land – but we sold it.

At some point there will be a decision on whether or not New Street should have dedicated bike lanes.

The decision to go ahead with the Joseph Brant Museum transformation is going to end up being as serious a mistake as The Pier. Goldring came in as Mayor the Mayor who had to deal with The Pier mess – he may well leave office having left the city with a project that is only going to such money out of reserve funds for years to come.

Later this evening – Thursday October 18, the Mayor is going to hold a Telephone Town Hall during which he will listen to what people would like to see in the budget. He is doing this because he said a survey told city hall that people didn’t want to go out to attend budget meetings.

The pictures below tell a different story.

Burlingtonians will show up for public meetings and take an active part in any discussion - but they have to be given background briefings and decent oportunity to study and prepare.

Burlingtonians will show up for public meetings and take an active part in any discussion This is a budge review meeting with the Director of Finance leading the discussion.

wervbg

Citizens doing a solid review of a city budget. For the Mayor to suggest that people don;t want t attend is spurious at best.

But the race is on. We now need to hear what Ward 2 Councillor Marianne Meed Ward plans to do. The last we heard – she is in – she has wanted to be Mayor since the day she ran for the ward 2 seat in 2010.

The 2014 election was a sleeper – that will not be the story for the next 12 months.

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Well-known speaker and trainer, Mary Maciel Pearson will speak to parents about stress mental health issues, fatigue and feeling overwhelmed.

eventspink 100x100By Staff

October 17th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Popular nutrition and lifestyle coach Mary Maciel Pearson will be speaking next week at a free parent evening titled, Living Healthy is a Family Affair.

Presented by Community & Parent Partners for Kids (C.A.P.P. for KIDS), the event is to take place at the New Street Education Centre (3250 New St., Burlington) on Tuesday, October 24, 2017 at 7 p.m

Mary Maciel Pearson

Mary Maciel Pearson will talk to parents about high levels of stress family members can experience while touching on mental health issues on October 24th at the New Street Education Centre.

As a well-known speaker and trainer within the Greater Toronto Area, Pearson is a regular contributor to Vitality Magazine, Tonic Toronto, Neighbours of Oakville Magazine and the Oakville Beaver. In her presentation, she will address the high levels of stress family members can experience while touching on mental health issues, fatigue and feeling overwhelmed.

The presentation will delve into the many ways parents and children can be healthy in body and mind including good nutrition, physical movement and unique ways to stay connected as a family.

Admission is free but donations toward future speakers will be gratefully accepted.

C.A.P.P. for Kids is a partnership between Halton Region, Halton District School Board, Halton Catholic District School Board, Reach Out Centre for Kids (ROCK), Our Kids Network, Halton Regional Police Service, Ontario Early Years Centres, Burlington Public Library, City of Burlington, and the Halton Multicultural Council.

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Seniors community serves up a Thanksgiving Dinner and looks into providing equipment that will allow seniors to get the kind of exercise they need.

News 100 yellowBy Connie Price

October 6th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

What a wonderful day……..just what the Burlington Seniors Community Inc. had hoped for!

The Volunteer teams of St. Christopher’s Open Doors cooks and servers and BSCI’s Board and Volunteers worked together seamlessly: all deserve credit for the efficiency with which the meal was prepared, including the 225 lbs. of turkey cooked and served.

BCSI #1

The Burlington Seniors Community organization organized a Thanksgiving day dinner – cooked more than 200 lbs of turkey

The attendance, even though we initially thought we would limit it to 225 – 270 were fed. We didn’t turn anyone away.

The decorations and tables were inviting and attractive with a Fall theme, which afforded us the opportunity to give each table centerpiece as a Birthday Gift to whomever at the table had a Birthday nearest to the Event.

BCSI # 2

The Thanksgiving Day Dinner took up two rooms at St.Christopher’s – 270 were fed and entertained. Turns out the Seniors can run programs of their own without having to deal with city hall.

While the Guests ate, Aldershot High School Student, Alex Bella performed magic and card tricks at the tables to baffle the seniors.

The Entertainment was outstanding, fun and all seniors themselves. The performers included the New Horizons 20 piece Band, comic musical singer Bette Pender & Sinatra style crooner Fred Burnell, both from the Burlington Footnotes, the Weekly Strum Ukulele Trio and last but certainly not least Burlington’s Singing Veteran, Bill Read, who led the audience singing through a medley of old tunes with his Ukulele, including a patriotic song he had written and performed many times in the past 18 years singing for early morning commuters at the Appleby Go Station.

He concluded his performance along with the afternoon, by asking everyone to stand and sing God Save the Queen and O Canada with him.

Very emotional for many. What gifted and talented seniors we have in Burlington!

As the Guests left, they were given a Take Home Bag with items, information and literature of importance to seniors.

BCSI equipment

Some of the types of Senior Exercise Equipment available to promote balance & increase flexibility, while encouraging social and mental health through socialization.

Since BSCI’s mandate is “To be a leader for information, education, recreation and social interaction for our diverse and growing community of seniors” , we also circulated a Survey with information and questions asking the seniors’ opinions on two projects we are currently promoting and want their input and comments about. We received 152 completed Surveys, regarding our new Seniors Without Walls Program and the building of Outside Senior Exercise/Social Spaces.

These are just two of the projects that BSCI are becoming involved in to further our aim to fill some of the current gaps, especially for socially and physically isolated seniors.

The Thanksgiving dinner was a day of rolling up our sleeves and doing the work to accomplish it.

 

 

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Vigil for victims of all accidents and tragedies: for families, friends, and loved ones; for survivors and first responders who will have memories for the rest of their lives

eventspink 100x100By Staff

October 4th, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

This evening from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm the doors will be open at THiNKSPOT for anyone who wishes to drop-by (even if for a few minutes) as a Silent Vigil for victims of all accidents and tragedies: for families, friends, and loved ones; for survivors and first-responders who will have memories for the rest of their lives; for the psychological fear this can randomly happen again; for individuals who feel such anger and hatred that their choice is to kill another human being.

THiNKSPOT is just what the word says – a spot to think, reflect, exchange ideas, learn what other people think and explain what you think to others.

The feature that makes THiNKSPOT work is the setting and the level of facilitation,

The feature that makes THiNKSPOT work is the setting.

It is located in Lowville, yards behind the Lowville Bistro, surrounded by the Walkt Rickli Sculpture Garden where there is plenty of parking across the road.

Those who take part will will create a mural from play-doh, crayons, markers, LEGO, the dry-erase wall, paint, gifts of nature, as a response based on unconditional love for every part of the system that we are connected to.

Debra Pickfield, the woman that runs THiNKSPOT, said earlier today that her “ personal belief is we are connected to every part – even the evil, anger, and hatred – because my choosing to ignore macro-level actions and events that may have caused the horror, means I am also connected to the micro-level outcome. I cannot wipe my hands and say it has nothing to do with me.”

She suggests you “ bring your families; or come on your way home from work; share with your friends and colleagues. Help us bring a collective response of community and caring that defines us – not the hopelessness and fear that separates and detaches us.”

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City opens up with goodies for the senior set: celebrating National Seniors’ Day

News 100 redBy Staff

October 2nd, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The City is hosting a series of open houses today to celebrate National Seniors’ Day and honour older adults who make a difference in our families, workplaces and communities.

Transit - seniors with Gould

Seniors at a meeting on the city’s transit service .

The celebration will kick off with a ceremony at City Hall at 9:50 a.m.; the Mayor will do the photo op thing with song from Sing, Sing, Sing, a choral group made up of three choirs.

Open houses will be held throughout the day at city facilities featuring a variety of activities and refreshments.

Attendees at the open houses will be entered for a chance to win one of two Burlington Seniors’ Centre annual memberships and one of two Parks and Recreation $25 gift cards.

Open Houses
Location: Aldershot Pool
Time: 10 a.m. to noon
Activity: Free swim

Mayor Rick Goldring has his membership application processed at the Seniors' Centre - filling another of his campaign promises.

Mayor has his membership application processed at the Seniors’ Centre.

Location: Brant Hills Community Centre
Time: 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Activities: Free pickleball and badminton

Location: Burlington Seniors’ Centre
Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Activities: Facility tours, entertainment, bike ride and bike demo

Location: Tansley Woods Community Centre
Time: 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Activities: Sing, Sing, Sing performance, free swim, community group representatives and information tables

The ceremonies over the Naval Promenade becomes the fous with the Seniors' out in force listening to the All MAle Welsh Choir. Strolling along is Craig Stevens, the city's project manager on the pier project. He direction and oversight kept the project going when it got a little wonky at times - but that's another story.

Naval Promenade at Spencer Smith Park is the perch for seniors out in force listening to the All Male Welsh Choir.

All city pools and arenas will be offering free drop-in recreational or lap swims and skating for Adults 55+ on October 2nd.

No mention of the level of bus service that will be available.

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David Suzuki to take part in November Youth Eco Summit for grades 7 to 12 students

eventsgreen 100x100By Pepper Parr

September 23, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The man is iconic and the event is epic.

Perhaps just a little over the top – ya think?

david-suzuki

David Suzuki – to be in Burlington in November for three days,

In their media release BurlingtonGreen added that they are “THRILLED” to announce they are partnering with the David Suzuki Foundation to present an incredible three component event on November 21st, 2017, featuring the iconic Dr. David Suzuki.

Halton youth from grades 7 to 12 will be invited to register to attend a free daytime Youth Eco-Summit, followed by a special early evening “VIP” event which will then lead into the main public event. Dr. Suzuki will be at all three events!

Tickets will be available through the Burlington Performing Arts Centre box office and online at www.burlingtonpac.ca starting September 27, 2017.

Burlington Green will be releasing more about these events early next week.

The Gazette will keep you posted.

cc Paul Carvahlo (Burlington Mall Representative) with Dr. Jane Goodall and event sponsor, Joe Saunders of Burlington Hydro.

Paul Carvahlo (Burlington Mall Representative) with Dr. Jane Goodall and event sponsor, Joe Saunders of Burlington Hydro.

Burlington Green has brought in world class speakers in the past. In 2012 they brought Jane Goodall to Burlington for a similar series of events.

Note the date – events like this are formative for students who are in the process of determining their values and the way they see the world.

David Suzuki will not disappoint.

 

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All 21 Ontario universities will have representatives at Assumption Catholic high school on Wednesday the 27th.

eventsblue 100x100By Staff

September 22, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Representatives from Ontario’s 21 universities will be in Burlington at Assumption Catholic Secondary School on Wednesday, September 27, 2017, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., for the University Information Program (UIP).

Assumption is located at 3230 Woodward Avenue, Burlington L7N 3P1

Assumption map

Assumption high school location – 3230 Woodward avenue

This free event offers high school students from the surrounding area, and their parents, the opportunity to speak in-person with multiple university representatives. Any high school students in the area are welcome to attend, regardless of which school board their school belongs to.

The UIP offers students who are considering an Ontario university the opportunity to learn more about admission requirements, scholarships, residence, the application process, campus life and much more.

The event is designed to assist graduating high school students in making an informed decision before they apply to university in January 2018. The event also aims to help younger students with high school course selections in order to guide them toward future university programs.

Students and their parents will have the opportunity to learn more about Ontario’s 21 universities in either a fair- or presentation-style format, where they can visit each Ontario university representative individually.

University - UofT

One of the 21 universities that will be in Burlington to tell their story.

The UIP is hosted exclusively by Ontario universities. Each university participates in joint visits to high schools across the province each fall. Each UIP event is organized by the University Information Program Working Group with oversite from the Standing Committee on Student Recruitment, and the Ontario University Registrars’ Association.

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Our two Members of Parliament serve as a tag team during Question Period.

News 100 redBy Pepper Parr

September 22, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

They decided to work as a tag team in the House of Commons during Question Period yesterday.

First Oakville North Burlington MP Pam Damoff stood and asked:

Damoff with big wide open smiles

Oakville Burlington North MP Pam Damoff

“Mr. Speaker, the Leader of the Opposition has stated that he feels he should not be bound by the same ethical standards he demands of others in the House. He may have forgotten that his own party’s changes to the Lobbying Act actually make him a designated public officeholder. This might explain the confusion about the Leader of the Opposition hosting secret fundraisers.

“Could the Minister of Democratic Institutions tell the House what she is doing to pull the curtain on these types of fundraisers?”

Gould In the House while Obama speaks

Burlington MP Karina Gould getting her picture taken while former President of the United States addresses the House of Commons.

The Minister of Democratic institutions, Karina Gould, the Burlington MP stood up and responded thusly”

“Mr. Speaker, Canadians have a right to know about fundraising events attended by party leaders and leadership candidates, as well as the Prime Minister and cabinet ministers. Our legislation will make public the information related to who is going to fundraisers, where and when they are happening, and the amount required to attend.

“We hope the opposition will support this bill in committee so that no opposition party can ever again have their leader hold secret fundraisers.

“Together let us all raise the bar.”

Words to be remembered.

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On the last day of summer Jasper AB got snow. What kind of a winter are we going to have?

News 100 greenBy Staff

September 22, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The last day of summer – and what did we get?

A little on the sticky side but rather nice for the most part – certainly above seasonal norms.

In Jasper, Alberta they got snow.

We no longer have weather – we have climate change.

Snow Jasper AB

Jasper, Alberta on the last day of summer 2017

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Burlington fire fighters place first overall, first in Limited Pit, third in Unlimited Pit and first in Rapid Pit auto extraction categories.

News 100 redBy Staff

September 21, 2017

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Maybe it is because Burlington has all kinds of high volume highways running through the city. Maybe it is because the men and women who make up our fire department decided they didn’t see that many serious fire any one year and decided they would focus on something and be really really good at it.

Fire extraction

Firefighters learning how to take the top off a car.

Whichever the Burlington Fire department is as good as it gets in prying people out of badly damaged cars.

The Firefighter Vehicle Rescue Team recently competed and placed in several categories in the North American Vehicle Rescue Challenge hosted by Enfield Fire in Enfield, N.S.

The Burlington team, led by Ryan Stewart, placed first overall and first in Limited Pit, third in Unlimited Pit and first in Rapid Pit categories. Ryan Stewart was named Top Incident Commander and Mark Adams was honoured as Top Medic.

Unlimited Pit: In the unlimited pit you are free to use any tools you wish. Heavy hydraulic cutter and spreaders, pneumatic and electric tools are all permitted.

Limited Pit: In the limited pit, hydraulic tools are not allowed. In some cases not all municipalities have those hydraulic tools on every truck or available at every call. It is also a greater test of tool knowledge, using different tools that can require a greater skill set to operate.

Each team has 20 minutes to complete their work in what first responders refer to as “The Golden Hour”. The golden hour is a one-hour period following traumatic injury during which there is the greatest chances of survival.

Teams from all over the country, as well as teams from New York State, competed in the event that showcased firefighter skills and teamwork in a practical, competitive setting. Vehicle rescue teams use many skills: scene safety, vehicle stabilization, extrication and patient care. Live patients are placed into crushed vehicles in various positions of instability to simulate a real vehicle collision. Teams are given 20 minutes to safely get the patients out of vehicles.

The Burlington Fire Department has been participating in vehicle rescue competitions since 1984. The current team includes team captain Ryan Stewart, team medic Mark Adams and firefighters Chris Viegas, Liam Jewell, Frank Marciello and Scott Wells.

Fire - car extraction team

Dressed for hard work – the Vehicle extraction team that brought winning prizes back to the city from a Nova Scotia based competition. The Vehicle Rescue Team practicing behind Burlington Fire Headquarters – from left to right: Chris Viegas, Frank Marciello, Mark Adams (Medic), Scott Wells, Liam Jewell, Ryan Stewart (Incident Commander)

The team trains and fundraises for 10 hours each week to prepare for three weekend events each summer. Stewart returns for a second two-year rotation as captain while this is the first year for half the other members. Team members will spend a maximum of two years on the Vehicle Rescue Team and then other firefighters will be given the chance to experience this highly specialized training.

Burlington’s team trains, travels and competes at no cost to the taxpayer and relies on fundraising to cover expenses. You can help support the team by donating used electronics at fire stations located at 1255 Fairview St., 711 Appleby Line and 4100 Dundas St.

The team also accepts used vehicles for practice. Tax receipts are issued for vehicle donations. For more information, email vehiclerescue@burlington.ca or visit www.burlington.ca/vehiclerescue.

The Fire Department responds to an average of 650 to 700 motor vehicle collisions a year. The vehicle rescue team includes highly trained men and women who use the latest extrication knowledge, training, proven rescue techniques and equipment.

The first extrication competition held in the Province was hosted by the Ontario Fire College in 1984. The first BFD team competed in that competition.

Car rescue Enfield

These guys clean up pretty god. From left to right: The Vehicle Rescue Team with their awards after the closing ceremonies in Enfield, N.S. Frank Marciello, Chris Viegas, Scott Wells, Mark Adams (Medic), Liam Jewell, Ryan Stewart (Incident Commander)

Today the team consists of six firefighters who invest their personal time to train and compete. Each team member serves a two-year term. While on the team the firefighters are also tasked with delivering on-duty auto-ex training to their colleagues. This process closes the loop on the individual learning that occurs at the competitive level creating organizational learning for the fire department.

To date, 80 per cent of the department has participated on the vehicle rescue team.

 

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