 By Staff
May 12th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Global heating is likely to soar past internationally agreed limits, according to a Guardian survey of hundreds of leading climate experts, bringing catastrophic heatwaves, floods and storms.
Only 6% of the respondents thought the 1.5C limit could be achieved, and this would require extraordinarily fast, radical action to halt and reverse the world’s rising emissions from fossil fuel burning.
However, the experts were clear that giving up was not an option, and that 1.5C was not a cliff-edge leading to a significant change in climate damage. Instead, the climate crisis increases incrementally, meaning every tonne of CO2 avoided reduces people’s suffering.
 We have yet to hear, read or be aware of an occasion when the Burlington MPP, Natalie Pierre spoke of Climate Change and what the provincial government was doing about an world wide emergency. For MPP Pierre, the photo op is the medium she chooses to get her massage out. Just what is the message?  The task climate researchers have dedicated themselves to is to paint a picture of the possible worlds ahead. From experts in the atmosphere and oceans, energy and agriculture, economics and politics, the mood of almost all those the Guardian heard from was grim. And the future many painted was harrowing: famines, mass migration, conflict. “I find it infuriating, distressing, overwhelming,” said one expert, who chose not to be named. “I’m relieved that I do not have children, knowing what the future holds,” said another.
“Climate change will not suddenly become dangerous at 1.5C – it already is – and it will not be ‘game over’ if we pass 2C, which we might well do,” said Prof Peter Cox, of the University of Exeter, in the UK.
Dr Henri Waisman, at the IDDRI policy research institute in France, said: “Climate change is not a black or white question and every tenth of a degree matters a lot, especially when you look at the socioeconomic impacts. This means it is still useful to continue the fight.”
 Out of control fire burns in southeast Manitoba -May 8th, 2024 The scientists’ responses to the survey provide informed opinions on critical questions for the future of humanity. How hot will the world get, and what will that look like? Why is the world failing to act with anything remotely like the urgency needed? Is it, in fact, game over, or must we fight on? They also provide a rare glimpse into what it is like to live with this knowledge every day.
The climate crisis is already causing profound damage as the average global temperature has reached about 1.2C above the preindustrial average over the last four years. But the scale of future impacts will depend on what happens – or not – in politics, finance, technology and global society, and how the Earth’s climate and ecosystems respond.
The data reflects something we are all responsible for.
 It is not as if we didn’t know – we have always known – we just aren’t at the point where we fully realize how much trouble we are in. Hopefully then we will begin to make smarter decisions and not panic and do really really stupid things. Do you know what the Provincial Climate Warming Plan is ? 
 By Alan Harrington
May 12th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The Grand Trunk Railway of Canada built The Freeman Station in 1906 in typical fashion with a tall roof design.
When the discussion arose in 2010 as to where to relocate the Station, the tall roof posed a major challenge.
 The station in the early evening after a rainfall. It is too tall to fit under any railway bridges along the QEW – requiring it to remain south of the QEW.
A suggestion was made to remove the roof, however the roof and its large overhang supported by rafter tails is the structure that holds the walls and whole thing together. Just moving the roof separately, it would probably still be too tall.
Another idea was to haul it to the lake and launch it on a barge to destination unknown?
The only way to escape north of the QEW intact – is along the level crossing at Burloak – which means going east along New Street to Burloak then north on Burloak over the tracks and QEW. This would require stopping the trains from running along past Burloak. Not easy with GO trains running each way every 15 minutes.
 Steel beams had to be slid under the building that was sitting on Fire department land preparing for a move 75 yards away. Doing it again at the other level crossing at Mainway and Walkers would run into the same problems.
 Existing rail lines are in yellow; the route from the current location to Ireland Park is in pink. The blue/green is where the move from the original site on the Grand Truck Railway line to the current site. The station was never very far from its home. Rail lines are in yellow.
Theoretically – the route in pink to arrive at Ireland Park. It means moving power lines, telephone + cable wires. traffic signals. Police escort. Stopped traffic. The truck carrying the structure moves at about walking speed.
When the station was moved originally – it was on the May 24 weekend of 2005 – 19 years ago along the green route. Cost estimate was $25,000
When it moved again in 2014 it was about 75 yards along the blue route and cost estimate was again $25,000.
To move it from the current location would probably mean slicing it up into smaller pieces and reassembling it at the destination. A move would include the signal mast, stonework around the base and the two rail cars – caboose and a boxcar.
 Switching gear is now part of the complex that now includes the station, a caboose and a box car and tracks that they can be moved along. The yellow cab was used to inspect the condition of the rail lines. The red vehicle was used by track repair crews. Rail track and switches would have to be moved as well.
The poured concrete basement would need to be ripped up and sent to landfill.
Quite often when buildings are torn apart – with the expectation to be rebuilt in a new location, the rebuild gets delayed and never happens.
The Freeman Station is located in the (former) Village of Freeman beside the railway lines. Easily accessible by rail disembarking at Burlington GO Station and walking an easy two blocks west.
A lot of damage was done to the building while getting it mounted on the float during the 2005 Victoria day weekend move. Basically the floor was destroyed and a completely new floor had to be installed. The brickwork around the base was removed for transport – and had to be put on afterwards.
It is theoretically possible to move the Station to Ireland House intact – but the cost including insurance would be astronomical. Add to that the cost to reinstall all the electrical, gas heating, plumbing, sewer and flooring – there are better uses in the community for such funds.
 Alan Harrington, an accountant in his normal life, has been part of the team that created Friends of Freeman Station – the group that saved the station from being sold off as kindling. The City once actually ran an advertisement to do just that – no one took up the opportunity. Harrington is also a long time Director of the Burlington Historical Society
By Staff
May 12th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Mountsberg Raptor Centre; they officially opened on June 3, 1994, as both an education centre and a bird of prey rehabilitation hospital.
On June 1, 2024, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. visitors are invited to join in commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Raptor Centre. The Pride in Nature Birds of All Feathers celebration will be happening at the same time. Park visitors can enjoy a slice of cake with the Animal Care team, meet roving birds of prey, say hello to the resident raptors, take a photo at the Birds of ALL Feathers photo station, check out the bio-artifact display, and pre-register to participate in the Talons and Tailfeathers educational program.
When the Raptor Centre first opened, it featured educational displays and a theatre where public and school programs were hosted. The theatre had a one-way viewing window that allowed guests to see into the raptor hospital and follow the birds’ rehabilitation journey. Birds that had been injured and were deemed non-releasable were housed in enclosures along a trail for guests to view.
Amendments to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act in 2000 changed the laws surrounding the keeping of wildlife in captivity and the regulations surrounding rehabilitation. It was at this time that the raptor hospital closed, and the Raptor Centre transitioned to being a dedicated educational facility.
Over the years, the Raptor Centre has grown and changed as more was learned about how to provide the best quality of life for birds of prey in human care. Where once the centre only housed permanently injured birds, it now houses a mixture of both non-releasable birds and birds that were raised in human care. The number one priority of the centre is to provide the highest level of welfare possible for every bird that comes to call the centre home. The centre now houses 35 birds, representing 21 different species. Many of the birds at the centre interact with the public through educational programs—from curriculum-based school programs to small group immersive experiences.
 Turkey vulture using its massive wing span to float while to looks for the next meal. “The raptors in our care are truly remarkable to meet up-close,” said Craig Machan, Director, Parks & Operations at Conservation Halton. “Just as remarkable is our Animal Care team that looks after the birds’ training and overall well being 365 days of the year. Through this team’s expertise and dedicated care, our raptors can live long, fulfilling lives while engaging and inspiring the thousands of individuals who pass through the Raptor Centre’s doors.”
Thirty years ago, the Raptor Centre was made possible by a donation from Ms. Marguerite Gray, a descendant of the Cameron family who once owned the Mountsberg Conservation Area property. Upon opening, the centre was named the Douglas G. Cockburn Centre for Birds of Prey, in honour of Ms. Gray’s brother. Today, the Conservation Halton Foundation helps support the Raptor Centre with donations made through the Adopt-a-Raptor program. By symbolically adopting one of our featured raptors, the community can help to provide birds with a wholesome diet, veterinary care, training, enrichment, and more.
 Staff working with an owl – notice the thick leather glove worn by the trainer. While celebrating 30 years of working with birds that needed special care what doesn’t get mentioned is the superb program offered.
Watching staff work with the birds to that are caring for is a real treat. They are fed raw meat from the hands of a trained staff is exciting. A bird will be let go to fly around and then when it sees the food in the hands of the trainer they swoop in for the food. It is really exciting – Not to be missed.
Non-members of the Conservation authority have to pay a gate fee in addition to the Raptor Encounter fee. worth every penny
Address:- 2596 Britannia Rd, Burlington, ON L7P 0G3
 By Irina O’Connor
May 12th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The continued growth of the gaming market has led to various market opportunities and segments in Canada in recent years. According to data from Statista, the country’s eSports market is projected to reach $138.9 million (CA$187.6 million) by the end of the year, with a projected market volume of $177.8 million (CA$240.2 million) by 2028. Market researchers also predict that the number of users in the market is expected to amount to 14.8 million users by the end of the research period in 2028.
 A sport where brains are what is needed. Endurance is a skill set as well. Among various factors associated with the rapidly growing eSports market, Canada has seen increased investments in eSports-related infrastructure and the formation of various professional teams in many competitive titles. Canada is also home to various eSports stakeholders such as OverActive Media, Rivalry, and Enthusiast Gaming. Thanks to the country’s location, Canada’s eSports scene also benefits from easy connectivity and online play with North American player bases.
Some of the most talked about eSports pros in the scene today hail from the Great White North, including Valorant superstar Tyson “TenZ” Ngo, who recently celebrated a long overdue victory at the Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) Americas Kickoff tournament after a two-year slump with an all-new roster at North American organization Sentinels. Ngo and his team are set to compete in VCT’s Masters stage in Madrid shortly as the only North American representative team that qualified. Retired Canadian CS:GO pro and legendary Twitch streamer Mike “Shroud” Grzesiek is also a prominent figure in the scene, even years after leaving pro play.
Today, alongside various game releases and major tournaments taking place globally, Canada’s eSports scene continues to grow. Below, we’ll be taking a look at the state of eSports in Canada and what we may expect in the future:
A budding eSports culture
 It was pure pandemonium in Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. Confetti sprinkled through the sky, a roar ran through a crowd of thousands, and a team of six, the London Spitfire, all took their hands off their keyboards and mice to embrace each other in celebration of their victory while their opponents, the Philadelphia Fusion, hung their heads in defeat. As highlighted above, many of the most popular eSports pros and personalities today are Canadians. In addition to the likes of TenZ and Shroud, Canada is also home to some of the most popular eSports and gaming streamers and content creators. These include Felix “xQc” Lengyel, who made his name competing in Overwatch leagues for various North American teams. xQc boasts an extremely high viewership, with ten million viewers as of 2021 and remains a dominant personality among gamers.
Aside from birthing eSports pros and streamers, Canada is also home to prominent eSports tournaments across different titles. This year, Toronto is set to host the Call of Duty Major 3, with the team Toronto Ultra set to benefit from the home advantage and lift the prestigious CDL Major trophy. Canada has also hosted many other eSports tournaments, including the Konami Arcade Championship, NBA 2K League, and the now-defunct Overwatch League.
Aside from bringing competition and entertainment into the country, Canada’s presence in eSports contributes significantly to the community by boosting viewership. Gamers and fans who may not be able to compete can still participate in the scene by placing bets on favored teams and players. According to these eSports betting tips, watching, listening, and learning from tournament broadcasts are great ways to research, understand betting odds, and improve predictions. As such, the increasingly popular betting scene in the country comes hand-in-hand with the growing eSports scene.
Building eSports arenas
Another factor contributing to the growth of eSports in Canada is the continued investment in eSports-related infrastructure, such as eSports arenas. Building and designing eSports-specific centers and locations are crucial for hosting events and tournaments locally and providing an avenue for budding and experienced pros to connect and develop skills.
 There are training schools for students that want to learn the fundamentals of eSports. These students will have a lot more than a high school diploma when they are ready for college or university In 2021, Valhallan Esports Training, the largest and fastest-growing youth eSports franchise, opened its first arena in Whitby, Ontario. The arena was designed to provide a space for competitive gaming for gamers 7-17 years old, where they can train and compete in tournaments for titles like Overwatch, Fortnite, Rocket League, and Valorant. The arena also provides coaching and team collaboration so players can learn skills outside of gaming, including teamwork, communication, and leadership.
Of course, this isn’t the only prominent eSports arena in Ontario. As of 2023, OverActive Media Group provided updates on the previously delayed Toronto eSports Arena, set to house 7,000 seats in downtown Toronto. The eSports venue would also double as a concert hall. The arena is set to be opened by 2025, pending further updates.
Collegiate eSports
Finally, aside from the big guns, Canada also actively encourages aspiring eSports athletes through various collegiate eSports programs and local events. These are crucial for developing young talent in the eSports scene while ensuring they get the best exposure and experience competing professionally at a young age.
 Windsor’s St. Clair College has an Applied Science program that is usually fully registered. Currently, Windsor’s St. Clair College has made a name for itself short of a major championship. The team, affectionately called the Saints, has come closest to lifting trophies at the National Association of Collegiate Esports’ (NACE) tournaments for titles such as League of Legends and Valorant, as well as the National Esports Collegiate Conference’s (NECC) Nationals League of Legends championship. The Ontario school emerged as runner-up at these championship runs, with strong top-four finishes in NACE championships for Overwatch, Rocket League, and Call of Duty.
 By Pepper Parr
May 12, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
A colleague wrote recently and said when he visited his family doctor for an annual physical in December, the doctor commented that 70% of his patient visits were related to mental health issues, not physical issues.
That is a staggering number, and if it is indicative of what most doctors are hearing we, as a society, have a serious problem on our hands.
 I make this mention because May 13-19 is Mental Health Awareness Week.
I think everyone knows of someone who is struggling to cope with the burdens and the changes that are taking place. Learning to deal with these changes is more than a challenge.
Don Fletcher, part of the team that created Plan B, the citizens group that has had a significant impact on how the city’s planning department reacted to the development proposal that would put two very very high towers on the south side of the Lakeshore Road and Brant intersection.
While that keep Fletcher busy he has added to his volunteer work the decision to serve on the board and as Treasurer of Eagles Nest of Waterdown: don’t let the Waterdown mention get in the way of how you see the organization.
They work with individuals and families looking to make those who have to deal with changes happen in a supportive and positive environment. “We help people understand themselves, care for their mental health and learn new tools for healthy relationships. We offer counselling, coaching and support programs to adults, youth and children. Our services are low-cost or subsidized to help make them accessible to everyone.”
Fletcher explains that “this is a 20 year old charity that provides mental healthcare & family support services for those in need in our community who cannot afford these services, all provided in the spirit of true Christian compassion and love.
“Their clients are looking for a hand up, NOT a hand out, which resonates with me.”
The group is having an online fundraising auction that will run through to Sunday, June 2nd.
Fletcher describes the Nest as a “local hero” in the fight against mental illness.
 Amanda DeVries: Executive Director Eagles Nest Waterdown Amanda DeVries, a resident of Burlington, has been with Eagles Nest for eight and a half years and currently serves as the Executive Director of the organization. As Treasurer Fletcher found himself learning Quickbooks which he says “isn’t as painful as I originally thought it would be”.
The Eagles Nest has been added to the list of charities supported by United Way of Hamilton & Halton.
By Irna Flood
May 14th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
 Travelling the roads of Ontario is just mile after mile of great scenery.
Ontario, the most densely populated province in Canada, offers enough space for exploration and many possibilities for discovery, thanks to its huge wilderness regions and over a thousand streams. Ontario is an excellent starting point for your next thrilling journey, whether you choose exhilarating activities, experience the gaming culture, peaceful seclusion, or something in the middle.
Niagara Falls
Despite common honeymoon stereotypes, this location is a must-visit. Niagara Falls has remained unchanged in its fundamental character for ages—it is an awe-inspiring location where one may see the immense force of nature. Charles Dickens once stated that it would be more challenging for a man to be closer to God than in this place.
 The Falls – one of the wonders of the world. You never forget the experience Like Dickens, contemporary tourists see, perceive, and physically experience the immense force generated every second as 739,682 gallons of water from the Niagara River cascade over the Horseshoe Falls and descend into a turbulent basin around 13 stories underneath. Visitors are led through tunnels that provide close interactions with the cascading water, and a journey to this place is considered incomplete without experiencing a ride on the renowned Maid of the Mist. Since 1876, the ship has navigated a wet passage with spray to reach the foot of the Horseshoe Falls.
Explore the Parks near the Great Lakes
Embark on a journey to the Unique Parks of Georgian Bay, a hidden gem on the shores of Lake Huron. Each park is a world of its own, with French River Provincial Park offering thrilling kayaking and fishing and Killbear providing a family-friendly beach experience. Bruce Peninsula National Park and the Marine Park of Fathom Five, near Tobermory, beckon with their exceptional hiking and swimming opportunities. Fathom Five, with its crystal-clear waters and sunken ships, is a diver’s paradise and a must-visit for glass-bottom boat excursions.
 Part of the La Cloche Mountain Range Killarney Provincial Park is an exceptional treasure within the province. The La Cloche Mountain Range consists of white quartzite, contrasting with its woods’ green tones and the vibrant blue colour of its lakes. The lakes in this area are adorned with stunning pink granite cliffs that provide a distinctive colour palette. These cliffs have been captured in paintings by the Group of Seven, immortalizing their beauty.
Caesars Windsor
Perhaps your thirst for entertainment, you can find it that using online casinos in Ontario doesn’t match a brick-and-mortar establishment’s bright lights and social atmosphere. Fear not; The Caesars Windsor, established in 1998, is unquestionably the most prominent casino resort in Ontario. This location offers top-tier entertainment options, including more than 2,200 slot machines, 85 table games, and a specialized poker area with 14 tables.
 Caesars in Windsor – thrills at the slots; fine dining as well The Caesars Windsor is a very wealthy casino located in Ontario. It is renowned for its sophisticated ambience and prime destination for those seeking an elevated gambling experience. Additionally, it serves as a venue for indulging in exquisite cuisine, captivating performances, and tranquility.
Venture Through the Wine Country
Embark on a comprehensive wine tour across Canada’s premier wine-producing region to broaden your knowledge and experience of wines. Ontario has over 180 wineries, many of which offer tastings, tours, and other activities, including vineyard strolls and guided tours.
Utilize Wine Country Ontario’s Wine Route Planner to carefully plan a route through Niagara, Prince Edward County, and Lake Erie North Shore. Visit prominent wineries like Inniskillin, where you can sample their cab franc ice wine, and boutique vineyards such as Stratus, the world’s first fully LEED-certified winery.
Thousand Islands
 Are there really 1000 islands? Stretching for many kilometers downstream from Kingston, the expansive, azure St. Lawrence River is dotted with over a thousand islands adorned with trees. The result is a picturesque setting suitable for boating, swimming, fishing, and scuba diving in frigid, transparent seas. Discover the islands quickly by navigating them in your boat or kayak.
Alternatively, you may choose a guided trip from Kingston, a grand metropolis made of limestone that served as the capital of Britain’s Province of Canada for a short period. Individuals who prefer maintaining the dryness of their feet may still enjoy the picturesque views along the Thousand Islands Parkway. Please be aware that the region is situated on the border with the United States, so it is necessary to have your passport readily available, regardless of whether you are travelling by land or sea.
In Conclusion
 Ice Wine; a unique Ontario product. In conclusion, Ontario offers a diverse array of experiences for travellers seeking adventure, natural beauty, cultural exploration, and entertainment. From the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls to the tranquil parks near the Great Lakes, the province boasts a rich tapestry of landscapes and activities waiting to be discovered. Whether exploring the wilderness, savouring fine wines in the picturesque wine country, or enjoying the excitement of Caesars Windsor, Ontario invites visitors to embark on unforgettable journeys filled with wonder and delight. So, whether you’re drawn to the thundering power of nature or the glitz and glamour of city life, Ontario promises something remarkable for every traveller.
By Pepper Parr
May 10th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
 Alinea, the organization that holds significant parts of the Paletta International holdings has been spreading their cash around lately.
They have “invested” major dollars at the Art Gallery of Burlington. They have chosen to get behind specific events rather than pass along a lump sum.
In their media release the AGB said: “The Art Gallery of Burlington (AGB) is thrilled to announce a significant donation by Alinea Land Corporation. The Burlington-based group will be the presenting sponsors for the next two exhibitions in the Lee-Chin Family Gallery: We Who Have Known Many Shores by artist Alize Zorlutuna (May 10 – September 1, 2024) and David Harper (September 13, 2024 – January 5, 2025).
 Art Gallery benefits from developers financial support. “We are excited to announce this important partnership with the AGB,” said Paul Paletta, President & CEO of Alinea Land Corporation. “Our goal at Alinea is to enhance prosperity within the communities and by investing in the next two exhibitions at the AGB we continue the work our parents started. Arts and culture can make a positive, meaningful, and lasting influence for people within our community and we hope we inspire every person to come down and visit these exhibitions.”
The Art Gallery people were “delighted”. Every little bit counts.
Alinea also supported the Bay Area Climate Change Council annual Forum held recently at the RBG’s Rock Garden building. Give them credit for choosing a great location.
 Jennifer Keesmaat – sharing her experience as the one time Chief Planner for the City of Toronto Jennifer Keesmaat was the keynote speaker.
Keesmaat will be the speaker at Mayor Meed Ward’s Speaker Series taking place late in May – assuming the manages to find the sponsorship money she is going to need. Her colleagues at City Council were not prepared to go beyond the endorsement the Mayor was asking for.
Our tipster, who asked to be anonymous, said Alinea was the big sponsor.
 Part of the Alinea executive team discussing a matter with the former city Manager (his back is to the camera). Alinea currently has one of the largest developments, the 1200 King Road development, before the City. The 57 hectare site, nestled between Hwy 403 and the railway line between King Road and the Aldershot GO station is the biggest thing the city has seen in decades.
The development is expected to be a combination of housing, sports facilities and office space. The intention is to create a community the likes of which the city has never seen before. Bigger than the Alton community.
 The 1200 King Road site.
 An early rendering that represent some of the thinking going into the 1200 King Road development.
 By Pepper Parr
May 10th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
There was a time when the Friends of Freeman Station had to scrounge to get a couple of thousand dollars to take the next step.
Today, Council is going to consider a report that could see spending more than a million dollars to perhaps move the building.
This is a story that is going to take some time to explain in detail.
In the report that Council has the following options are on the table:
 The saving of the Freeman Station happened because volunteers put their shoulders to the wheel. Now that the bureaucrats are getting their hands on it – who knows what will happen to the station. Proposed Interim Solution:
 Some of the people that saved the Freeman Station: hopefully they involves themselves in whatever decision is made. Given the imminent dissolution of FOFS, an interim solution is imperative to ensure the continued operation, upkeep, and maintenance of Freeman Station. This interim solution includes having city staff assume immediate responsibility for the operation, upkeep, and maintenance of Freeman Station. This includes ensuring the safety and security of the premises, conducting essential maintenance tasks, and managing any ongoing commitments or contracts where possible.
Options Considered
The Future of Freeman Station (FOFS) is currently at a critical juncture, requiring decisions regarding its future. This report evaluates two potential options: keep Freeman Station in its current location or relocate the Station to another location on city- land. Each option presents distinct challenges and considerations that need to be addressed.
Option 1: Keep Freeman Station at 942 Brant Street
Items on site include, Freeman Station, train car shed, rail tracks, box car, caboose and decking. There are three Sea Containers on site which must be removed. It is unknown at this time what contents are within the containers and where/if they will be disposed/donated. The current zoning of the property is MXC, Mixed-Use Corridor Zone, therefore, a Community Institutional Use is permitted.
The City has two pathways forward if the Station were to remain at 942 Brant Street:
- City complete minimal renovations and site improvements for site to function as a community facility to be programmed by the community or the Museums.
- City complete substantial renovations and site improvements for the site to continue to operate as a museum.
 The renovation was complete – all volunteer labour from people who put their hearts into the job. In both pathways forward the site will require the City to submit planning applications. It should be noted that a requirement of approval will be the asphalt paving of the site to accommodate approximately 10 parking spaces.
If the Station is to remain at 942 Brant Street, there are several items from a property standpoint which should be noted:
- The site is Licensed from the property owner Solenis. The property owner must be agreeable to the improvements. If desired, the cost to purchase the land would be in addition to the costs outlined in the Staff have not discussed any changes to the current agreement with Solenis at this time.
- The site does not have vehicular ingress/egress, access to the site is shared with the Fire Station.
Option 1 (A): Convert Station into a community facility
In Consultation with Asset Management, renovations to be in compliance with a Community Institutional Use and planning applications will be required to receive an occupancy permit.
The Station has a maximum occupancy of 36. An occupancy of only 36 poses a challenge for its use. Community facilities typically require larger capacities to accommodate visitors and facilitate engaging experiences. Therefore, this limitation may need to be addressed through creative design solutions or alternative arrangements to maximize the station’s potential as a facility.
The Museum feels that there are opportunities for additional programming to be developed and delivered onsite. The subject matter and the important story that Freeman Stations talks about Burlington could be explored and experienced by the community through tours, community programming, events and family activities. The Museum could provide limited programming to small home school groups, youth groups and smaller interest groups.
Total initial capital investment to convert the Station into a programmable community facility use managed by the Burlington Museum is approximately $250,000.
The Operating Costs associated with this option will require an annual investment by City of approx. $30,000 in addition to staff resources estimated to be approx. 2 weekend PT positions, 2 PT educators, 1 part time maintenance position. Once again, these resource requirements would be spelled out through the 2025 Budget development process.
Option 1 (B): Convert Freeman Station into a museum
In addition to the site improvements and planning applications mentioned in Option 1 (A), the City will have to engage with Museums of Burlington and an external consultant to determine the necessary renovations required to meet applicable building code requirements for community facilities such as museums and safety standards. A cursory review by Asset Management indicated renovations may include structural repairs and accessibility upgrades.
 A volunteer posing as the Station Master The Station has a maximum occupancy of 36. An occupancy of only 36 poses a challenge for its use as a museum. This constraint may restrict the scope of exhibits, events, and educational programs that can be hosted within the space. Museums typically require larger capacities to accommodate visitors and facilitate engaging experiences. Therefore, this limitation may need to be addressed through creative design solutions or alternative arrangements to maximize the station’s potential as a museum.
Total initial capital investment to convert the Station into a Museum is approximately $1- 1.5 Million.
The Operating Costs associated with this option will require an annual investment by City of approx. $30,000 in addition to staff resources estimated to be approx. 2 weekend PT positions, 2 PT educators, 1 part time maintenance position. Once again, these resource requirements would be spelled out through the 2025 Budget development process.
Option 2: Move Freeman to City owned lands
 Is there another ride in store for the Freeman Station? Details are sparse but there is something afoot. Relocating Freeman Station to other City Owned land requires hiring a structural engineer to ensure the building’s integrity for the move. A full site plan and building permit process would be necessary along with the retention of qualified professionals to design foundations specific to the new location and connections to utilities. Duplicating the current foundation and basement adds to the complexity and cost. Transporting such a large and historically significant structure involves expenses like specialized contractors, permits, and overcoming logistical challenges such as highway overpasses and hydro line clearances. Additionally, potential costs for restoring the current site include removing the basement and restoring the land.
Option 2 (a): Move Station to Ireland House, 2168 Guelph Line
 The $3.5 million price tag to move the Freeman Station to Ireland House should be enough to take that idea off the table. Staff have performed a cursory inspection of the Ireland House site. If it is determined following a structural review of the Station that it can be moved, Ireland House has land to accommodate the structure to continue as a museum.
It is crucial to assess and potentially address any trees in the vicinity that may obstruct the relocation process. This could involve pruning, trimming, or even removing trees to create a clear path for transportation. Additionally, if any of the trees are deemed purebred and subject to protection regulations, additional costs may be incurred for measures such as creating protection zones.
The Museum feels that there are opportunities for additional programming to be developed and delivered onsite as occupancy would not be a barrier. These program opportunities could include, increased school trips, additional day camp programs and large-scale community events. Shared resources, staff and programming could reduce some costs.
Total initial Capital investment to relocate the Station to Ireland House is approximately $3-3.5 Million. In addition to this, Museums of Burlington would also require an operating budget to cover program and facility expenses in addition to resources to operate, maintain and offer programming in the space. These additional resource requirements would be further developed in a business case through the 2025 budget process if this option is preferred by Council.
Option 2 (b): Move Station to a City Park
In 2010, staff thoroughly examined options for relocating the Station, identifying numerous obstacles. They evaluated 16 locations against various criteria, shortlisting 5. However, the Council decided against pursuing any of them. Prior to 2010, over 20 other locations were also investigated. Staff now anticipate difficulty in identifying another suitable location for relocating Freeman Station. If this option is chosen, the base cost to move the Station to a proximate park will have similar financial implications as Ireland House minus the cost for duplicating the current foundation and basement.
 The railway displays in the basement, paid for by a teacher’s association would be lost if the structure were removed. This option would likely mean the retirement of the Station as a Museum.
Total investment to relocate the Station to a City Park is approximately $2 Million.
By Staff
May 10th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Centre Lions Farmers Market opens for its 66th season on Wednesday, May 15, at 8 AM.
It will be open every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 8 AM to 2 PM until October 26.
 Over 50 vendors offer fresh produce and specialty items including meats, cheese, eggs, baking, wine, and more.
It’s still early in the season, so exactly what’s there on a given day is still subject to the climate.
 By Pepper Parr
May 10th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
We celebrate our Mother’s on Sunday.
Every single one of us will have thoughts – they will range all over the map.
 The War Plane Museum is letting Mother’s enter free.
The province has said that Mother’s can fish without a license.
The Compassion Society has made the day just a little different for those who live below the poverty line or far too close to that poverty line for comfort.
They refer to the women they serve as guests and support them with food, clothing and other necessaries.
 This week, guests were given a purse, yes a purse that would have things that women carry in purses. A tube of lipstick is one example.
Oneil Edwards, the Executive Director at Compassion explains that the idea was to give the more than 80 people they have registered something different, something they might not be able to afford. Something that recognizes them on a day that might bring some emotional pain instead of the love and adoration most other Mothers will be getting.
You might want to consider supporting the Compassion Society financially. You can do that HERE
By Pepper Parr
May 9th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Chris Barnett, the lead lawyer the city hired to argue before the Ontario Land Tribunal hearing on the re-development of the Waterfront Hotel site said: “words matter” during the opening day of what is expected to be a 10 day event.
He was absolutely correct.
We are not sure just how broad that statement was meant to be – the words that are being used at the hearing start with policy decisions made at the provincial, Regional and municipal levels.
Members of Burlington’s seven member City Council produce documents that set out policy.
A number of those document are being used as evidence by both the developer and the lawyers representing the city.
During the hearings to date we have yet to see one member of Council sitting in virtually to hear what is being said and being able to see the visuals of what the development site could look like if it is approved.
We are told that one member of council said she/he was taking part by listening to the hearing on their cell phone. Possible, but to get any sense at all as to what is taking place – the visuals are critical.
 The Parkland Dedication Criteria document was used in testimony over just how much parkland was being provided by the developer. Turns out it was nowhere near what was required.
There are consequences to the decisions made at the municipal level. One would like to think that members of Council would want to be aware of how the decisions they made were put to use. We will return to just how much parkland was being offered and where it was located.
 By Staff
May 9th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The Ontario Provincial Police say 64 people have been charged in a large-scale child exploitation investigation across the province where 34 child victims were identified.
 Another 30 children were “safeguarded,” police said, which means removing a child who is in a dangerous position and who could be offended against.
The investigation, dubbed Project Aquatic, involved 27 police forces across Ontario who identified and arrested several people for allegedly making, possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material, police said.
Police said more than 348 charges were laid and 607 electronic devices were seized.
By Pepper Parr
May 9th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
What does a train wreck waiting to happen look like?
The Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) is currently hearing from expert witnesses and the lawyers representing the Pearle Hotel and Spa and the owners of the Waterfront Hotel.
Their interests all converge on that portion of Elizabeth Street that runs south from Lakeshore Road.
 The eastern boundary of the proposed development will be on the right hand side where there will be the three traffic entrances and one for pedestrians to walk into the hotel part of the development.The southern boundary will be about where the pickup truck is parked. The photograph above is the field, as it were, that these interests are going to be presented to a single OLT Member.
On the left hand side you have the Pearle Hotel which is part of the Bridgewater development that consists of two condo towers, one 22 storeys and the other seven stories and the hotel.
Parking for all four parts of the development is through the one garage entrance at the very south end of Elizabeth Street. When we say parking we include the garbage trucks, the moving trucks and the delivery trucks that serve the needs of the hotel.
There is a very small layby for people that are registering as guests. Valets will take their cars to the parking location.
 Layby parking outside the Pearle Hotel There is layby is very limited.
Traffic congestion around the hotel is already a problem, manageable bu a problem nevertheless. You expect this kind of thing in Manhattan – but this is Burlington.
The OLT hearing is about what is going to be built on the other side of the street where the entrance to the hotel will be located.
There will be two lanes to the underground parking space for the hotel guests and the residents of the two tower that are proposed. One tower is to be 36 storeys and the other 31 storeys.
There will be 500 + residential units and some office space in those two towers.
 The two towers will soar to 36 and 31 storeys. The hotel will be at the bottom of the right hand tower. There is also an entrance for the garbage trucks and the big moving trucks. During the OLT hearing we learned that the garbage trucks might have to back out of the building on to Elizabeth Street.
The City has decided that there will not be any traffic going into the development off Lakeshore Road.
Picture all that taking place on the Elizabeth Street shown above.
Add to that those occasions when snow or freezing rain covers the streets.
If the development is approve by the single OLT Member that is hearing the appeal this is what the city could be looking at.
The hearings are expected to end on the 17th of May with a decision at least four months away.
By Staff
May 7th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The following was sent to us by Bfast – Burlington for Accessible Sustainable Transit . The Gazette was unable to attend the event, we are grateful for what Bfast provided.
Traffic congestion and the need for more buses are limiting improvements to Burlington Transit, and senior governments must step up to support local transit systems. Those were two dominant themes of this year’s Transit Users’ Forum, held Saturday May 4. Nearly 100 transit riders, City staff and politicians attended the forum, organized by Burlington for Accessible Sustainable Transit (BFAST), at the Central Branch of the Burlington Public Library.
Mayor Marianne Meed Ward highlighted City Council’s role in supporting the service expansion that has propelled transit ridership to record levels and committed to continue with transit improvements.
“We have invested heavily in transit, but we’re also trying to remove financial barriers,“ she said. “We’re looking at the feasibility of adding some additional free transit.” And the City will continue to make improvements in its specialized service (Handivan) to handle booming ridership.
“We’ve already starting to talk about the 2025 Budget and we’re looking at more investments in transit yet again.”
Record year for transit
 Burlington Transit Director Catherine Baldelli. Burlington Transit (BT) had a record year in 2023, with some 2.97 million rides, according to BT Director Catherine Baldelli. “People are embracing transit,” she said. “That’s really exciting.”
The affordability of transit was emphasized by Baldelli and most of the speakers at the forum. But growth in demand and worsening traffic conditions are putting the service under pressure.
Long travel times and limited schedules are often due to a shortage of buses and the people who operate and maintain them, Baldelli and transit staff said in response to stories of people forced to spend as many as four hours a day on their work commute.
Heavy traffic, including spillover from the highway, is also slowing down buses, she said. Over the next year, Burlington Transit will work with the City’s Transportation department to implement transit signal priority, which gives a bus priority through an intersection if it is running late.
Heavy traffic also causes bus bunching, where two buses might appear at once after passengers have waited for some time, she explained to a number of users who reported overcrowding on the Fairview-Hamilton Route 1. Bunching happens when one bus is delayed so much that other buses catch up to it. Transit staff monitor the system and make adjustments to keep things moving, she said.
Strong majority support for transit
The solution to many user problems could lie with more provincial and federal support for transit, speakers from BFAST and other organizations said. And public opinion seems to be on their side.
 Environment Hamilton’s Ian Borsuk said transit activists in that city envied the progress that has been made in Burlington over the past five years. (Photo credit: Zara Paris/BFAST) Panelist Gideon Forman, policy analyst with the David Suzuki Foundation, said there was “strong majority support” for more investment in public transit, according to a poll conducted last year by Ekos research. The poll showed nearly 80% of Ontarians wanted provincial and federal governments to invest more in transit. “What’s really exciting here is that it’s that a whole range of demographics” who support transit investment, from youth to seniors, he said.
Support, at 90%, was strongest in Toronto. But it was almost as strong in the 905 region.
“Almost four out of five folks in the 905 region support more money for public transit,” Forman said. “Obviously, lots of folks have to drive in this part of the province. They still support more money for public transit because they see the value in public transit even if they’re not using it themselves.”
Ward 3 Councillor Rory Nisan said a cultural shift was making transit more attractive to youth and families. He said friends were beginning to see the benefits of transit and he believes the shift will continue.
 Councillor Rory Nisan: A growing economy means more pressure on roads and “you can’t build your way out of that,” since road expansion only increases car use. Plan for roads
He projected traffic levels 25 years down the road, when Burlington would have as many as 100,000 new residents. He said Halton Region’s master transportation plan was in process and would deal with regional roads.
“We need to make some very serious decisions about the future of the roads,” he said. “Like it or not, it’s going to be busier on the roads. And the question is, ‘What are we going to do about it?’” A growing economy means more pressure on roads and “you can’t build your way out of that,” since road expansion only increases car use,
“So what’s the answer? The answer is more people walking, biking and taking public transit, and making it easier for people to take public transit. So that’s what we’re building today, so that we’re ready for … 25 years down the road.”
“In a lot of ways, for the last few years, we in Hamilton have been looking at what’s going on in Burlington with envy,” said Ian Borsuk, Executive Director of Environment Hamilton. But he said transit users had to keep the pressure on local councils to act on their issues. He cited a widespread service disruption in Hamilton that eventually led to the formation of the Hamilton Riders Union.
‘We continued putting ongoing pressure on city councillors and it became, politically, absolutely necessary, especially in areas where there isn’t currently bus service, to keep onside with increasing bus service in the city of Hamilton.
Encouraging response
“What’s best for Burlington, what’s best for Hamilton and all our various communities is that the communities determine what’s best for themselves. We know what type of service we need to see in our local communities. And it’s absolutely vital that we continue to work together and learn from each other.”
“We are very encouraged by the response to this year’s Transit Users’ Forum and we thank everyone who attended and helped with organizing this event,” said BFAST Chair Doug Brown.
“We’re seeing a real change in attitudes towards transit as congestion and affordability take a bite out of our over-dependence on cars,” said Brown. “We hope this forum further demonstrates to our elected representatives that despite the progress we’ve made over the past five years, there is still a lot to be done.
“Transit is one of the best tools in our kit to reduce pollution, end gridlock, make our streets safer and improve the quality of our urban life,” said Brown. “We will continue to work with transit supporters, Burlington Transit and our municipal government to make better transit a reality in our community.”
By Staff
May 8th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
 Waterfront Hotel as it is today. At 10:00 am this morning the Ontario Land Tribunal will resume the hearing on the re-development of the Waterfront Hotel site at the intersection of Lakeshore Road and Brant Street.
This stuff is drier than toast but critical to what the downtown core of the city is going to look like in the future if this development is approved.
 We asked Plan B, a group of people that have kept a watch on the development for their comments on the testimony yesterday from David Faletta, the planner who is representing the owners of the property.
The 5th day of OLT hearings on the Waterfront Hotel Redevelopment application droned on today with several expert witnesses for the Appellant (Vrancor) being cross-examined or giving their expert testimonies. With 7000 pages of written reports replete with charts & visual illustrations to refer to or present, it’s a daunting task to follow. Mercifully, we’re half way through the hearings!
Today featured testimony from David Falletta, the primary urban planner from Bousefields associated with this application from the start. There were a few lapses in logic or fact that stood out for us in his expert witness testimony (provided under oath). We’re sure the very capable lawyers for the City of Burlington and the Pearle Hotel & Spa will have a much longer list to cross-examine him on tomorrow.
He noted that the property is still governed by the 1997 Official Plan (as amended), and NOT by OP 2022 which is still being appealed by various developers, including Vrancor, at the OLT. We all know or should know that the Urban Growth Centre (UGC) was moved northward to the Burlington GO Station. and the John Street bus terminal classification as a Major Transit Station Area (MTSA) was corrected in Regional Official Plan Amendment 48 (ROPA 48) on November 10th, 2021.
He then goes on to quote the OP 2022 (originally drafted in 2018) as still referencing a UGC & MTSA downtown, as some sort of reinforcement of the idea, while it is obviously an outdated reference in need of an simple correction. I’m sure the City will make the change once developers’ OLT appeals are resolved. Did you catch his “double speak”?
 The design has undergone several significant changes but the height did not change. Another notable claim of “fact” of Mr. Falletta today was that the parkland dedication of his client’s Application (revised February 27th, 2024) provided the same amount as the Waterfront Hotel Planning Study’s Preferred Concept 2022 (PC 2022). The former provides three fragments of land along the NW corner and southern edge of the 2020 Lakeshore property amounting to 733 m.sq. On the other hand, PC 2022 provided two pieces of dedicated parkland: a 20m x 65m one along the full western property line and another 10m x 42m one on the southern edge, amounting to 1720 m.sq. So no, 733 m.sq. is not equal to 1720 m.sq., it’s not even half, but nice try Mr. Falletta. Of interest, the original application had zero parkland dedication, supposedly to provide public washrooms requested by the City.
The elephant in the room is how can one person, the assigned OLT Member, keep all of these competing “facts” and opinions straight in this complex case, and be able to discern what is properly & truthfully reasoned and reasonable in her ultimate decision? The future of our downtown waterfront community hangs in the balance, but It could be 4+ months until we know!
In our opinion, this development is simply ‘out of proportion’, ‘out of place’ and should be ‘out of here’.
Not much doubt where BPlan stands.
The cross examination of Faletta will take place today.
 By Staff
May 7th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
It’s an early notice for a June event.
In the past it has proven to be very popular.
Step back in time to the golden era of the Brant Inn! Join us at the Marquis Gardens at the Waterfront Hotel on June 22, 2024 from 6pm to 11pm for “An Evening at the Brant Inn.” Enjoy an evening of dining, dancing, drinks, and swing music as we celebrate Burlington’s iconic entertainment venue of the 1940s, 50s, and 60s.
The night will include hors d’oeuvres, a 3-course dinner, dance lessons and demonstrations from danceScape, and live music from Smooth Blend Jazz Quartet. This event is a fundraiser for the Museums of Burlington.
Tickets can be ordered HERE
By Staff
May 7th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The Ontario Land Tribunal that is hearing the application from the owners of the Waterfront Hotel who want to erect two 30 storeys plus towers on the site.
David Faletta, the planner for the developer, will be examined today by lawyers for the developer and lawyers for the City.
The examinations are expected to take up most of the day; perhaps longer.
The decision is critical in terms of what the downtown core will eventually look like.
 Rendering of the proposed development on Lakeshore Road between Brant and Elizabeth. Traffic on the portion of Elizabeth Street that runs south of Lakeshore Road will be close to unmanageable if the development proceeds. The street is the east side boundary for the development that will have to encroach on some city owned land if it is approved in its current form.
 Parking outside the Pearle Hotel, on the east side of Elizabeth, isn’t working for anyone. The way in which dedicated parkland space has been assembled is a bit of a joke. Bits and piece here and there are added together to arrive at a total that is required. That phrase ‘linear pathways’ gets used to describe a stretch of land that is a pathway – yet included as parkland.
Lawyers for the City have, so far done a good job of pulling out what the developer proposes to do.
One issue that has been given a lot of time is the parking needs of the Pearle Hotel and Spa that is on the east side of Elizabeth.
By Pepper Parr
May 7th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
I recently had cataract surgery done on both eyes. I had an excellent ophthalmologist.
My cost, the amount I had to pay the hospital where the surgery was done amounted to, $440.
There was an additional small cost to have the eyes measured. My ophthalmologist didn’t like what she saw in the test results and asked me to return to the clinic in Hamilton to a re-test – at no cost to me.
The service at the hospital in Stoney Creek where the surgery was done was superb – from the front desk where intake was done to the nurses who got me through the checking on data, asking questions about my blood pressure, my diet. The front desk intake clerk deserves a medal for the way she handled people who were elderly and concerned about the surgery
With the surgery complete my opticians took over from the ophthalmologist. If there is a problem its gets caught at the optician level and they advise the ophthalmologist.
I was in the hands of people who are very good at their jobs.
There are many people who did not have the experience I had. Many have been scammed and told that the procedure was going to cost much more – thousands for some.
I had been working with a clinic in Burlington where it became evident to me that they were attempting to up sell me – I moved on when it began to seem a little dodgy to me.
 The Ontario Health Coalition released a new report this month about private for-profit clinics unlawfully charging patients for health care.
They are currently ramping up promotion of the May 30th rallies to reach more Ontarians than we ever have and put pressure on the Ford government to stop privatization.
Below is just a sampling of media coverage that the OHC received during the past three weeks.
(April 16, 2024)
By: Ainsley Smith & Caryn Lieberman, Global News Toronto
More than 100 patients have come forward to voice their concerns over being charged for care in private clinics in a newly-released report by the Ontario Health Coalition (OHC). A majority of these patients are seniors living on fixed incomes, with the fees imposing significant financial burdens on them.
The Ontario Health Coalition, which advocates for publicly-funded health care, held press conferences across the province to release the report, titled Illegal, Unlawful and Unethical: Case Studies of Patients Charged for Medical Care in Ontario’s Private Clinics, which stated that for-profit clinics expanded by the Ford government have been charging patients thousands in unlawful fees.
The report featured case studies on more than 100 patients, who said they’ve either been charged extra fees, been denied treatment, been told if they didn’t pay, they would face “extreme” wait times, or even been tricked into add-on fees.
The report said some patients faced bills upwards of $8,000 for eye surgeries and tests, resulting in considerable financial strain. According to OHC, one patient had to go back to work at the age of 71 to cover their bill, while others resorted to accumulating debt, depleting their savings, borrowing money or sacrificing other necessities.
One patient, Shalom Schachter from Toronto, told Global News he was sold a story about needing extra eye testing and lenses by an ophthalmologist surgeon and ended up paying close to $1,200 at a for-profit clinic.
“I could use the OHIP paid-for equipment, but that wasn’t going to be the best for me. He had diagnostic equipment that was going to identify my condition in a more accurate way,” said Schachter.
Maureen Monro of London reported that she was told she would have to wait two years unless she paid thousands of dollars for cataract surgery.
“I was informed the cost to receive the surgery would be almost $7,000. Being as I live alone, I did not want to lose my quality of life. Therefore, I paid the $7,000. Being a senior on a fixed income, I am still trying to catch up with bills from this surgery.”
In the report, the OHC highlighted discrepancies in Premier Doug Ford’s assurances regarding the privatization of surgeries and diagnostics. Despite his “headline-grabbing” pledge that Ontarians would only need to use their OHIP cards, not their credit cards, for medical payments, and the promise of robust safeguards against extra billing and user fees, the reality of patients being charged user fees at private clinics contradicts these commitments.
“It is unlawful to charge a patient for any OHIP-covered service or any part of an OHIP-covered service. In fact, it’s illegal,” said Natalie Mehra, executive director of OHC.
The report also revealed the predominant fees patients faced were associated with eye surgeries at for-profit clinics, particularly for cataract procedures. Many patients said they were not informed the service was OHIP-covered, while a third of patients said they were charged between $500 and $5,000 per eye for the surgery.
Kate Armstrong, a small business owner in Toronto, was one of these people.
Armstrong was informed by a surgeon at a private clinic that the wait time at a public hospital would be “impossibly long” and that the hospital could not offer the desired “upgraded” lens. Consequently, she opted to undergo additional tests and eye surgery at a private clinic.
“$8,000 later, I don’t believe it was an accident that they swiped my Visa card instead of my OHIP card. It was never actually discussed on any level that OHIP covered any of it,” she said to Global News.
In the report, the OHC said the most common violations of public medicare laws in private clinics included telling patients they had to pay for medically-needed surgeries, requiring patients to pay for add-ons not needed or covered by OHIP and charging for preferential access to care for those who paid out of pocket.
“They’re seniors… They’d have to go back to work at 70 and 80 years old to cover these costs. It’s disgusting. It violates every moral that we have,” said Mehra.
In response, a spokesperson for the Minister of Health told Global News that over the last year they’ve added tens of thousands of OHIP-covered cataract surgeries and achieved some of the shortest wait times of any province in the country.
“Through Bill 60, our government has further strengthened the oversight of community surgical and diagnostic centres, by bringing these centres under the oversight of a patient ombudsman, ensuring access to services cannot be conditional on their choice to pay or not pay on additional, uninsured service and putting into law that Ontarians will always access insured services at community surgical and diagnostic centres with their OHIP card and never their credit card,” the spokesperson said.
OHC said there have been incidents where patients were told they had to pay for OHIP-covered surgeries, or told that if they didn’t, they would face a lengthy wait for a hospital procedure.
Patients also reported being charged for cataract surgery add-ons they didn’t need, like extra eye measurements and tests, the OHC report said claimed were “safer or better” than OHIP-covered services.
OHC noted the patients were also denied access to surgery if they declined to pay out-of-pocket for them, the report says.
Health Minister Sylvia Jones has stated previously Ontarians would never have to pay out-of-pocket for OHIP-insured services with the private clinics.
 In a statement, Jones’s spokesperson, Hannah Jensen, described OHC as an “out-of-touch, NDP-backed special interest group.”
Jensen said the province had added tens of thousands of OHIP-covered cataract surgeries over the past year, and that 80 per cent of patients see their procedure “within clinically recommended target times.”
The province says when a provider is found in violation of the Commitment to the Future of Medicare Act, it gives them a chance to be in compliance. The act bans the charging of patients for medically-needed surgeries and diagnostic tests, according to OHC.
The Ontario government is paying a for-profit clinic more than it pays its public hospitals to perform identical, provincially covered surgeries, according to documents obtained by CBC News.
The province is preparing to expand the number of private clinics providing OHIP-covered tests and procedures — a move it claims will reduce wait times and save taxpayers money.
Last year, CBC News revealed the province paid a for-profit surgery clinic in Toronto – whose parent company’s lobbyists include Ontario’s former health minister – more to perform certain OHIP-covered procedures than public hospitals.
Health advocates and opposition parties allege it’s part of a broader effort to privatize Ontario health care in favour of one similar to that in the U.S., something the province has denied.
The province wants to expand for-profit clinics and allow them to do surgeries like hips and knees in an effort to reduce wait times across the province.
Many of the patient testimonies included in the report described similar stories to Edwards — people said they were referred to a private clinic by their physician or optometrists after being told they would have to wait years to get the surgery if they went to the hospital to get it done.
Others said they felt like they had information withheld by the clinics and charged for unnecessary add-ons, like upgraded lenses.
Ontario Health Minister Sylvia Jones responded to the coalition’s concern about patients being up-sold for those services.
“We’re talking about a group that’s ideologically opposed to any innovation and any changes in the health-care system,” she told CBC News.
By Staff
May 7th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton District School Board has invited students, parents, guardians and staff to provide feedback by completing the Have Your Say survey.
The survey is open from May 6 to June 3, 2024. Parents and guardians of HDSB students can access the survey through the Have Your Say webpage of the HDSB’s website (hdsb.ca).
Students in Grade 4 to 12 will receive a link to the student survey through their classroom teacher and will complete the survey during the school day.
The information gathered from the Have Your Say survey will help the HDSB continue to create positive environments, inform school improvement and well-being plans and enable parents, guardians and students to have a voice in creating a supportive community in HDSB schools.
 Students at M. M. Robinson high school.  Curtis Ennis, Director of Education “Your input is pivotal in shaping the future of our educational landscape,” says Curtis Ennis, Director of Education for the Halton District School Board. “The HDSB is committed to actively engaging in dialogue with our partners in education to ensure that together we may build a brighter future for our students. With your feedback, we can help guide meaningful change to enhance student learning, well-being and success.”
The Have Your Say survey will take approximately 10-15 minutes to complete. Responses are confidential, voluntary and students and parents/guardians can skip any question they do not wish to answer. The survey is available in eight additional languages: Arabic, French, Hindi, Punjabi, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Spanish and Urdu. Respondents will select their preferred language when they begin the survey.
Data from the Have Your Say anonymous survey for the 2020-21 and 2021-22 school years is displayed on the HDSB web site.
Students in grades 4-12 were invited to respond to questions pertaining to learning, safety, bullying, well-being and substance use (Grade 7 and above only).
Participation Rates were a surprise.
Participation rates are presented for the 2021-22 school year. A total of 23,646 Grade 4 to 12 students participated in the 2021-2022 survey, representing a participation rate of 51%.
Participation was higher for elementary students (63%), relative to secondary students (37%).
There was no detail on what the HDSB learned from the previous surveys.
By Staff
May 7th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
With the Winter that really wasn’t – we now have a Spring that is.
Buds are springing out all over the place.
How is this for a driveway?
 It all came up with the sunshine yesterday – and kept on growing.  The small pink plants behind the robust green bush seem to compliment each other.
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