By 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.
Jasper, Alberta on the last day of summer 2017
By 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.
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.
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.
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.
By Staff
September 20th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
That Sesquicentennial we celebrated on Canada Day has become a gift that just keeps on giving for the federal political class.
Pam Damoff, MP for Oakville North-Burlington.
Pam Damoff the Member of Parliament for Oakville North-Burlington has announced the intention to award 15 special Canada 150 Sesquicentennial Pins to outstanding residents of her riding who positively impact and influence the community.
In the media release sent out Damoff invites all residents of Oakville North-Burlington to nominate a distinguished individual for the Sesquicentennial Citizenship Award.
Successful nominees will be individuals who strive to make a positive difference in the community, whether it is through devoted advocacy or dedication to an organization, in one or more of four main categories: environmental stewardship, youth engagement, diversity and inclusion and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
Damoff is known for her annual New Year’s Day Polar dip.
Successful nominees will be presented with a Canada 150 Sesquicentennial Pin given to MP Damoff by the Minister of Heritage Mélanie Joly. Consisting of the Canada 150 logo and a piece of the original copper which covered the roofs of Canada’s Parliament from 1918 to 1996, Sesquicentennial pins are a special keepsake to commemorate this important milestone in Canadian history.
The unique pins were made with the participation of Under One Roof, an initiative of the Ottawa-Carleton Association for Persons with Developmental Disabilities, and crafted with the help of people with developmental disabilities.
Nominations will be accepted from Wednesday, September 20 to Wednesday, November 1, 2017 at 5pm EST. Visit www.MP Damoff.ca to nominate someone today. You will be asked to include a short paragraph or two outlining how the candidate being nominated meets the above criteria.
Nominees can be of any age. All residents of Oakville North-Burlington will be considered.
Oakville North-Burlington’s Canada 150 Sesquicentennial Citizenship Awards will be presented at a special ceremony on November 16, 2017.
By Staff
September 18th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The weather was as good as it could get – and the turnout was superb for the 36th Annual Terry Fox Run
There were 1050 participants this year up from 900 last year and 70 volunteers which is about the same.
Funds come in throughout the year – so it isn’t easy to say how much was raised.
The final number for last year was $91,589.
The Start and the Finish of th Terry Fox Run took place in Spencer Smith Park,
Team Casey people had their own T-shirt
The total to date for this year is $91,971 – of that $16,691 came from Team Casey
Historically after the run another $5k to $15k comes in as donations which are accepted year round. Last year $12k came in after run day.
The past several years the Team Casey idea caught on – this year there was a tent set up for their use, it was never empty.
They needed a drone to get the camera high enough up in the air to get everyone in the picture.
The group wanted a picture with everyone in it – camera couldn’t get them all in – so a drone was used to capture everyone
For the first time ever the people who manage the Run sold out of the Terry Fox T-shirts.
The Team Casey people had their own T- shirt so the increase in sales wasn’t due to the close to 200 people who were members of the Team.
By Staff
September 18th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
There were a reported “hundreds” of United Way community partners on the tarmac at the John C. Munroe Hamilton International Airport to pull a 200,000 lb.
Over 250 community partners joined UPS and United Way to rally around this fall’s fundraising campaign. Teams of 15 pulled with all their strength to move the 200,000 lb. plane across the finish line.
“We are so grateful for the support and dedication of partners like UPS and so many who continue to stay committed to making our community great for everyone”, said United Way
President & CEO, Jeff Vallentin during his opening remarks at the Hamilton Airport.
“As you know, the beginning of April was a watershed time for the United Way movement in our region. Vallentin was referring to the decision to amalgam all four United Way operating in Halton with the Hamilton organization.
“We are focused now, more than ever, on ensuring that we remain connected to the issues that face each of the communities we serve and as always all dollars raised local will stay local. That means that whatever is raised in your community will go directly to support programs and services for your neighbours, family, and friends.” said Vallentin.
Ken Smithard, Campaign Chair and President of Cogeco Connexion also delivered opening remarks and helped to reveal the United Way Halton & Hamilton 2017 Campaign goal. “United Way Halton & Hamilton is focused on responding to local needs and providing critical impact in five distinct communities across the region. Monies raised in each community remain in that community.” Ken continued, “I am proud to support United Way and ask that you join me in helping make these communities better places for all of us to live; we’re stronger together.”
Ken then joined the rest of the Campaign Cabinet on the tarmac to reveal the $10,000,000 goal for the 2017 Campaign.
Also in attendance at the event was Craig Rayner, Vice-president of Automotive at UPS Canada. He discussed the 30 year partnership between United Way and UPS mentioning that, “ In 2016, UPSers across Canada raised more than $1.2 million in charitable donations. These contributions were a combination of both employee engagement and sponsored events, including our four nation-wide “Pulling for U” plane pull events in Hamilton, Mississauga, Vancouver and Calgary.”
Craig spoke about the importance of giving back to our neighbours, family and friends and their over three- decade long partnership with United Way.
By Pepper Parr
September 7th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Team Casey is coming together to play another game.
They are going to run the 36th Terry Fox Run on Sunday the 17th and later in the day – between 4 and 6 pm they are going to gather at the Burlington Convention Centre and celebrate the life if Vincent Casey Cosgrove.
Wear your Team Cosgrove sweater and bring your stories – he will be with us. He knows who you are.
Bryna Cosgrove said last night that – “Although words just don’t seem to do him justice, we’ve tried our best.
“We will try to do even better by celebrating Casey’s life together with his friends, his family, and those who knew him.”
Some members of Team Cosgrove made their own sweaters.
By Pepper Parr
September 4th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Later this month Mark Zelinski will launch his book on the Escarpment. It is a large format publication with loads of pictures – Zelinski is a photographer with an eye for the outdoors.
Mark Zelinski, graduate of both Sheridan College and OCAD and the recipient of several awards for his work.
However, it would be a mistake to see the book as a collection of really nice pictures in between hard covers – the kind of thing that sits on a coffee table or in an office reception room where people flip through the pages.
It is one of the first books of this type that I have read that recognizes the place of the Indigenous community in the geography of our community.
Zelinski let the Indigenous people tell their story – his use of the a wonderful piece by Richard Hill about the: The Great Escarpment In Haudenosaunee Oral History is so powerful that we have included it in this review.
“The Haudenosaunee Confederacy consists of the Mohawk, Oneida, Cayuga, Seneca, Onondaga and Tuscarora First Nations. Our Creation Story is a road map to our underlying values, beliefs and customary practices. It sets in motion our way of life, and the annual cycles of nature that impact on our lives. It also tells of the re-shaping of Mother Earth that was created on the back of a giant turtle.
“Oral history tells of giant serpents that lived underground and emerged into the deep Great Lakes, only to surface from time to time to seek out human flesh. One huge cavern behind Niagara Falls soon became the home of the Thunder Beings. These powerful spirits rode the skies behind the dark storm clouds. When they saw one of those giant serpents trying to make its way to this world, the Thunder Beings would fly into action, shooting flint-tipped arrows that turned into lightning bolts, hoping to strike down the serpents and keep the land safe for humans.
“Our oral history also tells of a time when the Sun, Our Elder Brother, also known as the Great Warrior, while making his daily round of overseeing the Great Turtle Island, would notice that humans are fighting and hurting one another. As the story continues, our Elder Brother will pause, directly overhead when he sees such chaos. He will turn up his heat, hoping that the humans will pause and look skyward.
“In doing so, the people can recall the sacred origins of this land, and of humans of the clay from the back of the Great Turtle. His hope is that if we recall our Original Instructions to look after one another, humans just might stop fighting and return to the way of life that was intended for them – peace on Mother Earth. If humans refused to reconsider their actions, the Elder Brother said he would transform himself, becoming the Spirit of the Earthquake and shake the Earth so much that all that was made by humans would be destroyed, including the humans.
“This universal struggle between the serpents below and the Thunder Beings above is a metaphor for our own existence. We live in the middle of these two zones. While walking on the earth, we experience one aspect of life. When we die and are placed in the loving arms of our mother, we may experience another aspect of life. We can be like warriors who sneak up on others to do harm, or we can live in peace so that when our Great Elder Brother looks upon us, he will smile, knowing that we remember our Original Instructions. Life can flourish in this beautiful world we call home. Or, we can lose it all if we do not heed to wisdom of our ancestors and be thankful for all that has been provided.
“To me, The Niagara Escarpment represents the jagged edge of our existence. a place that has had a profound impact on the Indigenous people who live on or near it. It remains a place of power, a reminder of the original battle over this land, and an ongoing threshold between the goodness of our Mother the Earth, and the mysterious forces that are above and that lie below.”
Like many people I took the short boat ride when I last toured the falls at Niagara aboard the Maid Of The Mist. I never asked where the name of the boat came from – I recall more vividly how close we got to the falls and how wet we were when we returned.
Chezney Martin tells the story of the creation of the Niagara Escarpment and Maid of the Mist. It begins with a battle that involved the Seneca Nation of the Haudenosaunee.
“The Thunder Beings are considered the supernatural grandfathers and protectors of the earth. They make appearances in many Haudenosaunee stories and tales. The duties of the Thunder Beings flow from the creation story to the belief that they keep dinosaurs underground with strikes of lightening.
“In this particular story we meet a monstrous snake-like beast conjured by witchcraft that decided to live within the Niagara waterways to kill and eat the Haudenosaunee people.
“Enraged by this, the Thunder Beings sought to dispel the snake with force. This battle raged on for days as thunder rumbled in the sky and lightening struck the serpent until it dissipated into a huge crevice in the earth, the same crevice we call the Niagara Gorge today.
“The Thunder Beings were suspicious as to whether or not the snake had truly been defeated. Rather than leaving the earth they sought shelter behind the waterfall that had been created by the serpent. The Thunder Beings natural rumbles were covered by the sound of falling water, as they awaited any sign that the snake had survived.
“Shortly after this battle, the clouds in the sky cleared to a beautiful day. The sunshine attracted a young woman to lie near the water. She was soon to be wed and wouldn’t have much time to enjoy her alone time once she had children.
“As she closed her eyes, the snake that was shrunken by the strikes of the Thunder Beings slithered out of the water. It is said that the snake entered her body during her rest.
“The young woman was later married and after the first night spent with her new husband, he died. She mourned and decided to try marriage again with the same result. She tried once more to marry, desperately craving a family. Her third husband died.
“Distraught with grief and guilt the young woman decided to end her life. She entered a canoe up stream and allowed the current to carry her to the waterfall.
“Just as her canoe was going to tip over the edge and to the sharp rocks below, the Thunder Beings heard her weeping. They caught her mid-fall, and brought her into their cave behind the water.
“Once inside, the Thunder Beings taught the young woman how to dispel witchcraft as they alleviated her of the snake and destroyed it.
“It is said that the Thunder Beings returned to the clouds. The knowledge passed on to the young woman was brought back to the Haudenosaunee and has been used ever since.
“This is the story of The Maid of the Mist from the Original People.”
The care and preservation of the Escarpment is now in the hands of the public that is represented by the Niagara Escarpment Commission and Conservation Halton.
Robert Edmondson was with Conservation Halton for 38 years, starting his career as a biologist in 1974 and retiring as the director, watershed management services at the end of 2012. He describes and explains the huge stretch of land that he oversaw that extended through the world’s largest freshwater island, Manitoulin, and emerging from the crystal clear waters of Georgian Bay surrounding Flower Pot Island, follows a 740 kilometre journey from the tip of the Bruce Peninsula to Queenston Heights.
“Visual highlights along the Niagara Escarpment include dramatic views at vistas such as Lion’s Head, Colpoy’s Lookout, Nottawasaga Lookout, Rattlesnake Point, Mount Nemo, Spencer Gorge, and featuring creeks and streams flowing over such outstanding features as Inglis Falls, Eugenia Falls, Hilton Falls, Webster Falls and Balls Falls.
The Escarpment is our backyard. “All these natural wonders are found on publically owned lands that make up the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System (NEPOSS). Over 44,300 hectares of land, representing close to 23% of the Niagara Escarpment Planning Area is part of the park system. For the most part, these lands are connected by the Bruce Trail as it winds its way some 855 kilometres from Tobermory on the Bruce Peninsula to Queenston on the Niagara River. Manitoulin Island, which is outside of the Niagara Escarpment Planning Area, cherishes its own incredible parks, such as Misery Bay Provincial Park; a 1000 hectare coastal alvar sanctuary, with the largest wetland in the eco-district. The Cup and Saucer trail on the islands east end, possesses one of the most exhilarating views in the province.
“The NEPOSS is administered by the Ministry of Natural Resources and governed by a council with representatives from the park owners and the Niagara Escarpment Commission. The main objectives of the park system are to protect the unique ecological and historical areas; maintain and enhance the natural environment of the Niagara Escarpment while providing for outdoor education, recreation, and public access to the Bruce Trail; and promote the principles of the Niagara Escarpment’s UNESCO World Biosphere Designation.
“There are over 147 parks within the system that are maintained by a mix of public bodies and conservation organizations including seven conservation authorities: the Ministry of Natural Re-sources, Ontario Parks, Parks Canada, Ontario Heritage Trust, St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation, Niagara Parks Commission, Royal Botanical Gardens, Bruce Trail Conservancy as well as a number of municipalities and organizations such as the Hamilton Naturalists Club, Nature Conservancy and Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy. The Conservation Authorities of Grey Sauble, Nottawasaga, Credit Valley, Toronto, Halton, Hamilton and Niagara maintain more than half of the lands and 60% of the parks in the system.
“All Escarpment parks are classified according to their attributes and ecological significance: such as Nature Reserve, Natural Environment, Recreation, Historical, Escarpment Access and Resource Management Area.
The Parks provide a wide range of experiences: visits to preserved historical sites, walking or cycling to vistas with their breath-taking views; tumbling waterfalls; quiet strolls along hiking trails meandering through mature forests; and observing the active life of the wetlands, or the enjoyment of cross country and down-hill skiing. The fundamental responsibility of the park system is to preserve the legacy of the Escarpment, all the wonders of its ecological diversity and outstanding features.”
These three people set the table on which Zelinski places the several hundred photographs that capture what it is that we see, feel and experience when we spend time in this vast stretch of land. For those of us who have to spend time in sometimes stop and go traffic on six lane highways – an understanding and appreciation of this collection of land that has been preserved becomes close to poignant.
The book – title will be launched at an RBG reception September 20th at the RBG Rock Garden 7:00 to 8:30 pm.
The Heart of Turtle Island retails for $50. It is available for a limited time at a discount at www.MarkZelinski.com
It is also available at: A Different Drummer Books, Royal Botanical Gardens, Amazon.ca, and Indigo Books for the full retail price.
By Staff
September 3rd, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The late Casey Cosgrove Facebook is alive and has become the place to grieve, commiserate and openly love the man we have lost.
And old friend of Casey’s posted a note – it is not easy reading, especially if you know Casey – but it is worth reading. We still speak of him in the present tense – don’t we?
Hey Cosmo
Well, it’s been a shitty 24 hrs, not going to lie! I’ve cried more than I have since my dad died 40 years ago. I hurt because I won’t get to see you anymore but that’s selfish and I know that’s something you weren’t so I will stop that but it may take a few days ok sorry.
You created quite a stir on FB since you left, and I’m going to tell you that you certainly touched a lot of people and they too are as gutted as I am. You have some friends and family who can articulate very well by the way… without F-Bombs even 🙂
I know you know this but Bryna, Ev, Jack, Kate, Stanley, Rudy and Hefty will all be doted upon for years to come by everyone you touched. Not because you left, but because of the family core values you guys all showed us that caused us all to fall in love with the Cosgrove clan.
Cory Judson found his way of remembering. Cosgrove was one of the driving forces behind getting the monument in place.
It’s been 30 years since you walked up to the dugout of our team and said “Hey guys, I’m Casey, Casey Cosgrove and I’ve been asked to play with you guys”. You had flow (as they call it now) and a smile that just broke down any barriers we may have wanted to implement with the “new guy”. Casey Cosgrove… has there EVER been a better baseball handle in history? Maybe Mickey Mantle but I heard he was an asshole so…
You always had a competitive air about you, sometimes to a fault! Remember that hanging curve you threw that behemoth first baseman in the Nationals in Yarmouth? He hit that friggin meatball so far it should have had a flight crew on it. After the game you said “I can’t believe he got lucky and hit that out” we all laughed and said they had to scramble jet fighters to shoot that bitch down!
Then there’s all the years of ball hockey on Mainway, the moves you had with those silky mitts was ridiculous and you kept reminding me of that with every goal you scored on me. I’d tell you you it was just because you were lucky, you tell me it was just because I was a shitty goalie. We both know who was right, oh, and I still am haha.
My step daughter texted me yesterday morning and said “I am so sorry about Casey Jaker.” I responded with “You know Casey was the first person to call me Jaker 29 years ago” You remember that Cosmo? I got caught stealing second and was walking back past the bench and you said ” nice try Jaker” and I stopped in my tracks and said “did you just call me Joker?” You gave me that sly Cosmo smile and said “no you f***ing idiot I said Jaker”. Whether or not you called me joker or were quick on your feet to back pedal it stuck. Every time someone now calls me Jaker, my thoughts will go to that day and it’ll make me smile… you f***ing idiot 🙂
Well Cos, I gotta fly, Rach needs me to take a load of stuff to Western for her. Thanks for listening. From now on it will just be a silent discussion between you and I but everyone is sad here so I thought I’d share our first chat with them in hopes that some of our stories will bring back a smile or a laugh for them! That is, after all what you did best for all of us! I promise to get back to smiling and laughing, I just need to see Petey in pastels 😉
Love ya bro, so happy your pain free. Say hi to my Dad and Miley for me.
Chat soon…. Jaker
The family held a reception this afternoon and have said they will announce a public celebration for later in the month.
How is this city going to get through the Terry Fox Marathon of Hope on September 17th?
Casey Cosgrove in the 2015 Terry Fox run.
The family held a reception this afternoon and have said they will announce a public celebration for later in the month.
In an obituary that is far more formal than Casey ever was he is named as Vincent Casey Cosgrove. I don’t think very many people knew his full name. We could have been calling him Vinnie!
The obituary is at: https://www.circleoflifecbc.com/obituaries/Vincent-Cosgrove/#!/Obituary
How is this city going to get through the Terry Fox Marathon of Hope on September 17th?
By Pepper Parr
September 3, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Buddy Gerl, chief ribber at Camp 31, said that Ribfests are driven by weather – that being true Saturday turned out to be an iffy day . When it is too cold – people don’t come out. If it is too hot – they don’t come out.
But when the weather is just right – they come out in droves.
Chowing down and listening to the music – with the sun shining. The cranes in the background speak of a changing skyline
With little luck Gerl and his Camp 31 operation will have a good season and the Rotarians will rack up another solid fund raising event.
The crowds were soft when we toured the site in the middle of Friday afternoon – but they got better. Saturday was a disappointment – the rest of the weekend looks as if the weather Gods are with the Rotarians again.
VIP tent is open to the public for parts of Sunday and Monday.
There are a number of pluses this year. There is a VIP tent that is available to the public on parts of the weekend – Sunday and Monday for the most part.
Fetching the beer.
The beer prices are reasonable and you can use both cash and plastic and there is an ATM on site where you can draw some cash.
The usual set of Ribbers are on site – the lineups seem to dictate where the prize sauces are located.
The Rotarians took a different approach to their fund raising this year when they partnered with the Carpenter Hospice – that organization is getting close to finalizing their plans to a significant addition to the facilities.
Teen Tour Band – collecting for Carpenter Hospice
Members of the Burlington Teen Tour Band were on hand at some of the entry point with collection tins.
We noticed a bit of a tightening in security at the entry points to Spencer Smith Park. A security guard asked to look inside the bag I was carrying – it was a pretty cursory look. It is a changing world.
South side of Spencer Smith with all the ribbers open for business.
North side of Spencer Smith Park – crowds were sparse – but it was decent for a Friday mid-day.
The Ribfest first came to Burlington in 1996 – since that time the Lakeshore Rotarians have raised more than $3 million which they have given back to the community in the form of scholarships and awards.
For the past two years those academic scholarships have amount to $3500 for each person given a scholarship.
By Pepper Parr
August 31st, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The equipment is being set up – the signage is in place.
The Camp 31 people did a test run on Tuesday when they fed the people who took part in the Rotary Ribfest Kick off.
Rotarians get a free lunch and a bottle of the famous Camp 31 BBQ sauce
Bernie Gerl, chief “ribber” was at a table giving Rotarians and media people a sample of his famous BBQ Sauce.
What made the occasion significant is that the Camp 31 people were one of the “ribbers” on site in 1969 – 22 years ago, when the Rotary thought BBQ’s were a good fund raising idea
How the Lakeshore Rotarian’s pulled it off.
Bernie takes credit for introducing smoked BBQ ribs to the people of Burlington. No one knew at the time that the idea would take and that Burlington would end up being home to the biggest RibFest in Canada.
Camp 31 signage going up for the 22nd time. Organization ha a Canadian base in Ancaster and in Brewton, Alabama
Ribbers are sort of like gypsies – they move from location to location through a time arc that begins in May and ends sometime late in September. We started in Miramichi in New Brunswick this year said Bernie Gerl.
Their roots go back to 1908 when they were known as the Saw Mill, a general store in Brewton, Alabama. In 1985 Larry Murphy created Camp 31 as a BBQ operation that served authentic southern BBQ
In 1986 Murphy got some help from the Brewton Police department who helped them enter their first BBQ cook off in Pensacola Florida where the won three first place trophies. They have been serving up authentic southern BBQ ever since.
The store, still in place, is now headquarters for the American side of the award-winning cook off team. Look for us at an event near you!
Bernie explains that Ribfests are totally reliant on weather. Cold weather – people don’t show up – rain – even fewer people show up and if it is too hot – people don’t have appetites.
The bulk of the “ribbers” come from the American south where the food is part of the culture.
They have been doing it for years – it has grown to the point where it is a competitive event.
Bernie was in Burlington for that first event in 1969 – it was a single day and it rained – but it worked. The Lakeshore Rotarians saw that it was going to work – they reached their target of an $800 profit in that first year.
Bernie has an operation in Ancaster – Camp 31 is also a restaurant. The equipment is all custom made and the operation is finely tuned. The public is protected – the Health department does checkups every day.
These “ribbers” are professionals – they are quite a bit more than a bunch of “good old boys” who like to get out and on the road.
Everything gets packed into a fleet of trucks an assembled at each location. Everyone pitches in.
The Camp 31 operation is a family affair with wives, grown children, nephews and nieces making the event work smoothly.
The operation in Canada means that we don’t have to truck everything up from the United States. Bernie has issues with the Custom people – doesn’t feel “ribbers” get the respect they deserve.
Bernie’s wife Lori – can handle a barrel just as well as she handles him.
Bernie met his wife Lori at a restaurant the two of them worked at – they’ve been in the food business together ever since.
Each year the Camp 31 organization drops two of the locations it visits and adds two new ones.
“We did the Woodbine raceway this year for the first time – Bernie will not be doing that again. “I have a rule” explained Bernie – if the name Ribfest isn’t in the event – I shouldn’t be there”.
He forgot that rule – and won’t be returning to Woodbine again.
Camp 31 is one of the bigger rib operations – ten people travel “we pick up about five people at each location”, he said.
Most of their American locations are in Florida and adjacent States.
While the business is focused on ribs – Bernie thinks he should be getting credit for introducing “pulled pork” to the city as well. “We had it on our menus in the States for years but we had to give it away to create the market in this country.
Same with brisket he adds. “Been serving that up to the good folks south of the border for years – it has begun to become popular in Canada”, he adds.
While the team gets the equipment set up Bernie looks out over the lake – sees nothing but good weather with a nice breeze coming in off the water and thinks he has a successful event coming his way.
There are a lot of very small, what Berni calls “lone wolf operators” getting into the business. Don’t get Bernie started on those guys. “Bunch of cowboys who don’t know what they are doing” he says dismissively.
By Staff
August 30th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Most saw it as a slam dunk for the Baycats but the dreamer in every sports fan thought – that maybe – just maybe the Kitchener Panthers would take at least one of the games in the IBL best of seven play of series.
Dreamers do that.
It was four straight for the Baycats to take the 2017 final – which made it the fourth finals win in a row for the team.
The Baycats dominated in the regular season and were unbeatable in the playoffs.
The last time an IBL team did that well was in the 2008-2013 stretch when the Brantford Red Sox won six straight from 2008-13.
The Baycats opened the season with 26 straight wins and finished 33-3 to earn a first-round bye.
The 4-3 win for the Baycats in game one created some hope but it was downhill after that.The four playoff games looked like this:
Kyle DeGrace with 2017 IBL trophy
Game 1: 4-3
Game 2: 13-4
Game 3: 15-0
Game 4: 10-1
The Burlington Herd were taken out of playoff contention in the quarter finals when they were beaten by the London Majors in a best out of seven that went for five games. Burlington took just one of the five games.
By Staff
August 29th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
They have been operating as a cultural organization for more than 20 years.
They hold an
Annual Spring Brunch
An Annual Awards and Scholarship Gala
Black History Month Celebration (February)
Joint Caribbean Committee Caribbean New Year’s Eve
And the Annual Caribbean Nite
which takes place Saturday September 9th at the Holiday Inn.
By Staff
August 28, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The next provincial election gets more real every day.
Nothing on who the NDP candidate is going to be.
The McMahon Liberals are doing a repeat of the operational organization that Karina Gould did that propelled her into office.
McMahon proved to be solid campaigner and a good debater during the least provincial election when she took a riding that the Conservatives had held for more than 70 years.
Add that organizational heft to a superb campaigner and there is something formidable moving through the streets of the city.
Jane at the door step – where is the voter?
Jane McKenna has been doing her own door to door work.
McKenna hasn’t said much publicly – other than a few pictures from her Facebook page there is little to go on.
McKenna has always been close to Opposition leader Patrick Brown – it will be interesting to see if she convinces Brown to campaign on her behalf in Burlington.
One wag commented on the footwear – can’t walk many miles in those shoes. Maybe it was just a photo op? Mike Wallace was at one point heading up the McKenna campaign – we aren’t seeing him in any of the photographs.
McMahon is running on what the Liberal government has done – she is a member of cabinet so she is part of the decisions that are made. As a member of Treasury Board she oversees where and how the dollars are spent.
Lunch is on the MPP – McMahon wants you to show up and enjoy yourself.
McMahon can bring in Premier Kathleen Wynne if she feels she needs the clout. She will be holding her annual end of summer BBQ at LaSalle Park on Sunday September 10th.
McKenna will want to focus on what the provincial government has not done.
Time for you the voter to begin thinking about what you like and are happy with and what you think needs to be changed.
By Staff
August 27, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
If you are putting together your schedule for the week don’t forget RibFest –
Friday September 1st through to Sunday September 3rd, 2017 – 11AM – 11PM
Monday September 4th – 11AM – 7PM
Sponsored by the Lakeshore Rotary club – a sixty strong membership that makes the event happen every year. This time they have made some changes to the model – not the menu.
Burlington’s Ribfest – If you looked around there was still some sitting room. The weather was close to perfect and the music was good – great way to bring a summer to a close.
The event is the major fund raising initiative for the Lakeshore Rotary. In 2014 – the year of the flood – the Rotary used the occasion to raise funds for those families that had been wiped out by the flood. It was successful enough for the Association to look for new ways to serve the community.
This year the focus is on the Carpenter Hospice which is in the process of close to doubling the size of the facility.
VIP tent – open to the public Sunday afternoon and evening.
A VIP tent has been set up, courtesy of Carriage Gate Homes, that will be open to the public Sunday afternoon and evening. Your ticket, available on line, gets you a spot at the front of the line to buy your selection of ribs and then saunter over to the VIP tent and enjoy the chow where the beverage selection is a little more varied – includes some specialty cocktails.
This is a Sunday only occasion – the tent is open to the public. It is a space that is sheltered, has a great site line to the stage and a bar that has an upscale selection of beverages. And, an upscale biffy.
More details on the ticket offering for this can be found HERE.
The event will serve up the same ribs people in Burlington have been enjoying since 1996 when there were less than ten ribbers offering a food that was new to many.
While it rained most of the one day event in 1996 – it was successful enough financially for the Rotary to make a long term commitment.
That commitment has resulted in the raising of more than $3 million – nothing shabby about that number.
Related news story.
By Pepper Parr
August 22, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
After publishing this piece we got a note advising us that “we are nearing capacity… word of mouth effect is fierce with this run.”
This is the time of year to get out and enjoy the weather – and if you have room in your life for some classical theatre – check out Trevor Copp’s Tottering Biped production of the Merchant of Venice at the RBG Rock Garden.
A fine cast with some superb performances.
Michael Hannigan, on the right, as Antonio
Michael Hannigan has trod the boards of many of stages in the province. He is part of the opening scene in the Merchant where he gives the audience one of the most welcoming smiles you are likely to see.
Theatre is a sheer love choice and guilty pleasure for Hannigan; he has served as an Associate Artistic Director for both the Tivoli and Citadel theatres, helming several productions for each; as well as for The Players Guild, DLT, Theatre Burlington, Shooting Star Productions, and others in the GTHA.
Michael Hannigan preparing to give that “pound of flesh”
As impressive as his past performances have been his Antonio in the Merchant just has to be seen to fully appreciate what one man on a stage can do with a smile and a couple of words.
Chris Reid, a school teacher when he is not on stage, plays Shylock, needs a close listen to fully understand how he views the money he has loaned.
Alma Sarai who plays Portia beautifully – her coyness in determining just who her husband is going to be will delight you – almost as much as Claudio Spadafora’s performance where she introduces the various courtesans.
Jamie Kasiama and Alma Sarai
Sarai could have been a little stronger as the lawyer who interprets the law that applies to the Shylock loan. The phrase “a pound of flesh” that has become part of our everyday language, turns out to be exactly that – and nothing more which saves Antonio some pain and ends of requiring Shylock to become a Christian – such is the beauty of what William Shakespeare has given us.
It is a cast of nine that is well worth watching. The choreography is as good as it gets – better than some of the stage movements at Stratford and Shaw.
Trevor Copp during a rehearsal.
Trevor Copp’s life as a dancer comes through again and again as he directs the movement of his cast on a stage where a tree serves as a backdrop that has different coloured lights splashed on the thick branches and change the mood of the play in an instant.
Trees become part of the backdrop for outdoor theatre.
Performed on a stage set out on the grass where the fire flies fit in rather nicely. The sound of a freight train in the background doesn’t detract from the antics of the of the courtiers seeking the hand of Portia.
Zach Parson plays Bassanio and did some of the composing.
Jesse Horvath plays three role: Lancelot, Tubal and Salerio as well as working as director of Development.
Jamie (Milay) Kasiama plays Nerissa opposite Alma Sarai where she is superb in her attempts to direct Portia and her choice of a husband.
Copp wanted the cast members to be paid for the work they do – each gets a stipend of $100 for each day. Some support from the federal government summer employment program has helped but private sponsorship is always going to be needed.
Ticket prices are very affordable. Arrive early – seats are on a first come first served basis.
Play dates are Monday to Friday @7 pm. Plenty of parking across the road
Last performance is September 2nd.
The cast: In no particular order: Chris Reid/Shylock; Michael Hannigan/Antonio, Alma Sarai/Portia, Shawn Coelho-DeSouza/Prince of Morocco and Lorenzo, Claudia Spadafora/Jessica, Isabel Starks/Ensemble, Jamie Kasiama/Nerissa, Zach Parsons/Bassanio and Jesse Horvath/Launcelot
Treat yourself to a fun performance and some impressive choreography and Hannigan’s smile.
By Staff
August 16, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The plans are almost firm.
Fred Fox – Terry’s older brother, will be in Burlington on the afternoon of August 24th to view the monument created to celebrate Terry’s achievement. Fred Fox has seen just drawings and sketches when the family approved the design.
The monument to Terry Fox’s run through Burlington was paid for by a group of citizens.
The schedule is to hold a meet and greet at city hall followed by a walk to the Terry Fox monument in Spencer Smith Park after which the group will head over to the Art Gallery of Burlington to see the exhibit that has been in place for a month or so.
At the gallery Fred will be joined by Leslie Scrivener who will sign copies of her Terry Book which will be on sale at the gallery (all proceeds to cancer research) as well as talking on her experience travelling with Terry on the Marathon of Hope.
Terry Fox waving to a Burlington resident as he runs through the city during his 1980 Marathon of Hope.
The gallery portion will start between 3:30 and 4:00 pm. Craig Gardner reports that “other parts are still a bit fuzzy”.
Fred Fox will be arriving in Burlington from a visit to Oakville.
Gardner said the city hall portion of the tour is still a little iffy. He shouldn’t worry – it’s a photo op with the name Fox attached to it. The Mayor will be there.
By Staff
August 15th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
Mention school buses and the mind goes to getting ready for school – it is that time of year again.
School buses in Halton Region – Milton, Burlington, Oakville and Halton Hills – are managed by the
Halton Student Transportation Services (HSTS) who contract with local school bus operators.
Those operators hold a “School Bus Orientation Day” which will be held on SATURDAY, AUGUST 26, 2017 starting at 9:00 a.m.
School Bus Orientation Day is a safety program provided by HSTS and the local school bus operators to assist parents and first time riders in understanding the importance of school bus safety.
Parents of all first time riders are encouraged to bring their children to the free sessions, which will feature a classroom presentation on school bus safety, including Off We Go! a special video on school bus safety and a demonstration on a school bus.
School bus company safety officers and bus drivers will talk to the children and their parents about safely getting on and off of the bus, proper behaviour on a school bus, crossing the street to get to a waiting bus and overall school bus safety. In addition, a handout will be provided to all young riders with tips on school bus safety.
Both HSTS and the school bus operators hope the orientation sessions will help students and their parents feel more comfortable riding a school bus before the first day of school.
The sessions begin at 9 a.m. on August 26, 2017 at the following five locations throughout Halton. To register students and secure a preferred time slot, parents must contact the host bus company at the phone number listed next to the desired location.
Burlington: Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School; 905-333-4047 (Attridge Transportation)
Oakville: Holy Trinity Catholic Secondary School; 905-335-7010 (First Student Canada)
Acton: Acton District High School; 519-853-1550 (Tyler Transport Ltd.)
Georgetown: Georgetown District High School; 905-877-2251 (First Student Canada)
Milton: Bishop Reding Catholic Secondary School; 905-877-2251 (First Student Canada)
If you need to follow up for additional information, please contact:
Karen Lacroix, General Manager
Halton Student Transportation Services
1-888-803-8660 ext. 259
By Staff
August 10th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The 2017-18 Fall/Winter Live and Play Guide – the City of Burlington’s guide for information on recreation, sport, culture programs and festivals and events is now available online.
Printed copies are available for pick up at recreation centres, City Hall (426 Brant St.), Burlington Tourism (414 Locust St.) and Burlington public libraries.
The online Live and Play guide allows you to review and share program information as well as register for programs directly from any computer or mobile device. View the online guide.
An interesting program that has become quite popular is pickle ball, a trending sport that is taking the world by storm. Easy to learn, Pickleball can be geared to a wide range of ages and skill levels, from those new to the sport to the most seasoned players.
Burlington offers registered lessons for Pickleball players of all levels. Many drop-in times and locations are also available. These drop-in programs are designated as beginner or intermediate levels and provide flexible, convenient opportunities to enjoy the sport.
In coming years, Pickleball in Burlington will expand to include more advanced lessons, advanced drop-in times, and tournament play. For now, we encourage advanced level players to play with similarly skilled partners and opponents or to respectfully adjust their level of play to the level of others.
More on the program online.
By Staff
August 8th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
The London Majors powered past the Burlington Herd in a lopsided 15 – 2 romp Sunday night.
Justin Gideon hit a solo home run, while Kevin Hussey had the other RBI.
Ryan Beckett (0-1) gave up seven runs (five earned) on seven hits in 1.2 innings. He walked one and struck out one.
On the London side Byron Reichstein and Michael Ambrose each hit two home runs.
London leads the best-of-seven quarter-final 3-1 and can advance with a win Tuesday at home.
The Toronto Brantford series has the Leafs leading the best-of-seven quarter-final 2-1.
In the Hamilton Kitchener series – Kitchener leads 2-1.
With all three quarter final playoff teams playing this evening how things are going to fall out should be clearer.
In the meantime the Barrie Baycats patiently wait to learn who they will be playing in the final round. The only team that has been able to beat the Baycats has been the Toronto Leafs.
Future games
Tuesday, Aug. 8
Burlington at London, 7:30 p.m.
Kitchener at Hamilton, 7:30 pm.
Toronto at Brantford, 8 p.m.
Wednesday, Aug. 9
Brantford at Toronto, 7:30 p.m.
By Staff
August 7th, 2017
BURLINGTON, ON
It was clearly a difference of opinion that got out of hand.
Eight people on the street outside the Solid Gold nightclub located at 53 Plains Road East in Burlington got into a fight that had the police responding at approximately 12:30am on Sunday August 6th 2017 ,
During the fight, one of the suspects used a small pocket knife to stab two other people involved in the fight. Those people have been treated at hospital for minor injuries and are expected to make a full recovery.
Detectives have since identified each of the persons involved in the incident and are continuing conduct interviews and investigation into this matter.
Police are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the altercation or may have any information concerning this incident to contact Detective Joe Barr of the #3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau, at 905-825-4747 Ext. 2385. Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers “See something, Hear something, Say something” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca, or by texting “Tip201” with your message to 274637 (crimes).
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