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February 3rd, 2017 BURLINGTON, ON Mainway Arena will be closed for maintenance between Feb. 14 to 17, 2017. Plans to accommodate ice users at other city arenas are being made. Residents with questions about ice rentals at Mainway Arena should call 905-331-7465. For information about public skating at other locations around the city, please visit www.burlington.ca/play. 
January 23rd, 2017 BURLINGTON, ON
The New Street road diet is one of those stories that just does not want to go away. Each day we see new information dribble in while two woman continue to collect names for their on-line petition that now has 2141 names plus 500 signatures on a paper based petition. The petition is at: bit.ly/newstreetroaddiet Ruth Langdon, one of the two retired teachers behind the online petition, said one of her concerns is that this road diet will be continued onto Burloak Drive.  The idea was to share the road – motorists were taught to respect the signals painted on the road. “The plan seems to already be completed for bike lanes on New Street from Guelph Line to Burloak Drive.” She adds that she believes “the city has started working on a road diet for Maple Avenue from Lakeshore Road to just south of Mapleview Mall – pilot project for next spring. “And that they have started working on a road diet for Lakeshore Road from water treatment plant to Eastport Drive. Are these really pilot projects or done deals? One of the problems is the city hasn’t provided the level of information people need.  The city did hold an information night at Robert Bateman high school with a number of impressive aerial photographs that set out what city staff thought was possible in terms of a road diet. There were almost as many photographs as there were people. The city did hold a public meeting at Bateman high school where they had impressive drawings laid out showing some of the options that were being considered for New Street. The meeting was poorly attended. This all began when the Regional government announced they were going to upgrade the water mains along New Street – which meant re-paving the road. The work between Martha and Guelph line was done last summer. The balance of the water main work, from Guelph Line to Burloak was to be done at a later date. The city has a commitment to a better modal split between cars, transit, cycling and walking and saw this as an opportunity to put dedicated bike lanes in just a portion of New Street and measure data they would collect. Were cycling accidents reduced? Was traffic relay slowed down? What differences in the flow of traffic were observed? The cycling lanes on that part of Lakeshore Road that begins at Maple and runs along the edge of the lake to Eastport is a part of the redevelopment of the Beachway Park. Cycling lanes on Maple was not much more than a thought. The city did a very poor job of getting the long range story out to a public that was concerned about traffic congestion.  Many think that if there is going to be a cycle lane it could be on the median between the sidewalk and the road. One staff engineer told the Gazette one of the reasons for the medians was for possible bike lanes. Members of council who voted for the New Street road diet (all did except for Councillor Sharman) didn’t do much better. There is a confused public out there – they want answers and they aren’t getting them. The New Street plan was to be a one year pilot project that got off to a poor start and didn’t get any better as the public began to learn more about the plans. The understanding is that in a Phase 2 the city will look at physical separation between the bike lanes and vehicle lane – cement barriers Ruth Langdon wants to know if barriers are going to be put in to protect cyclists from traffic whizzing by at 60km – how much will barriers cost? Will they be removed in winter, if so how much will that cost? If not removed how will plows work around them? Where will the bus stop, how will handicap vans function? How do they sweep debris from the curb lanes, do they need to buy another machine for that? All reasonable questions – just no answers. Langdon has arrived at the conclusion that “intensification plus implementation of bike lanes = more congestion.” Alternatives to putting bike lanes on main roads is to improve existing bike paths(multiuse) and , pavement beside sidewalk-boulevards. Chris Ariens, an avid cyclist and a member of the city’s Cycling Advisory committee said he wonders how many people on the on-line petition are non-residents. He said he had heard in conversation that some of the petition comments were from non-residents, but can’t say how many. He said he did read the petition a couple of weeks ago. “No indication of how many were from neighbouring municipalities but I did see Philip Waggett’s name there 3 times. Ariens added that: “I understand that many people are upset about the situation, and there is a feeling of there being nothing in it for the 1/3 of the public who have zero interest in cycling and focused on getting where they need to go quickly. “The payoff for them is many years away, which explains some of the negative feeling towards the project. The road diet is mainly a scapegoat for the larger issue of congestion – particularly on the QEW / 403 that plagues our city’s commuting experience.  Is the New Street road diet a scapegoat for the larger issue of congestion – particularly on the QEW / 403 that plagues our city’s commuting experience asks a Gazette reader. “That congestion is the root cause, which providing more convenient multi-modal options should help address in the long run. That is why the data from this project is so important. But we can’t ignore the feelings either, because as we have seen, it is feelings that drive action at the ballot box, not data. Ariens has said previously that he isn’t committed to bike lanes on New Street – he just wants to see data that supports any decision made. The public does get bits and pieces of information from Dan Ozimkovic, Transportation Planning Technologist through his online communications. Nothing with any consistent detail from the city which is causing much of the angst. There is a sort of ‘if they aren’t telling us – then there is something wrong’ attitude prevailing. Ozimkovic is pretty clear when he says: “The new street bike lanes are absolutely not a done deal, it will depend on if there is a reduction in accidents in that stretch and not a significant increase in travel times, all of which will be reported on.  Existing traffic lane set up on the left. Pattern during th road diet for New Street. The drawing suggests there is some form of barrier between the cars and the cyclists – there isn’t – at least not during the trial phase. Ozimkovic is as strong with his words when he tells a resident that “I can guarantee you that New Street isn’t a done deal. This is a pilot project and staff will write a report to Council Fall 2017. This report will include all of the feedback received regarding this pilot project as well as the traffic data that we collected prior to the start of this pilot project and during the pilot project. In another email to a resident Ozimkovic reports that: “We have 3 months’ worth of data. You are absolutely correct, we aren’t able to collect any data now for the reasons you stated below (less sunlight to power the batteries that run the data collection equipment) but we will start collecting data once again as soon as the nice weather rolls around. From that point, we will collect data until the end of this pilot project. “We recorded close to 53,000 travel time trips. This includes prior to pilot project and during the pilot project. We recorded these trips using the Bluetooth technology. The only other way to record travel time trips is by going out there with a stop watch and driving on New Street. We would never be able to get that sample size if we chose to record travel times that way. Ozimkovic reports that all of this info is available on our project website www.burlington.ca/newstreetpilot – Eva Amos, the other retired teacher who organized the on-line and the paper based petitions with Ruth Langdon asks: “Why not reverse this decision now based on 2141 signatures on an online petition opposing the New Street Diet, plus 500 signatures on a hard copy of the petition, add the many comments councillors have received directly from residents? “Drivers do not feel safer, cyclists tell us repeatedly they will never ride their bikes in these bike lanes. They prefer Spruce Avenue, Lakeshore Rd or the Centennial Path. Residents on the feeder streets say traffic and speed have increased on these once quiet residential streets. “The short merge lane is a major concern. Emissions from idling cars now sitting in the backlog at Walkers and New Street at peak times is also a concern. Trying to get onto New Street from Pinecove especially is a problem. “At the beginning of this diet we were told data was being collected by the city transportation Dept and we could get updates there. Trouble is, this data has never been updated. The technology being used cannot collect data now in the winter months, the days are too short and the batteries are not charging properly. Data will again be collected once the nicer weather is upon us. So at best we will have data for a portion of this trial and none in winter? “I also have trouble with the technology being used. It may be the best we have at capturing most cars but it does not capture every car. How many are missed. We have no way of knowing. As I understand it, a mobile device has to be turned on in the car in order for it to be captured and counted. I for one drive with my phone on. My husband turns his off when in the car, as does my neighbour.  Time to travel between Guelph Line and Walkers Line with the road diet in place on New Street. A lot of people are going to experience heart burn when they see those times. Data comes from the city web site. “I find it almost insulting to the many drivers and residents of south Burlington trying to get from the east end to downtown or simply get home after a day’s work in a timely, safe fashion to tell them it only takes 72 seconds longer now to travel the distance between Walkers Line and Guelph Line. “Based on resident’s daily experience it should read, after waiting in gridlock at Walkers and New Street or after waiting several minutes to make a turn onto New Street, it now takes 72 seconds longer to travel the distance. “I don’t think we would have so many signatures on the petitions if it simply took 72 seconds longer to travel the distance as reported on the city website. “Burlington is a bedroom community. People out of necessity have to drive to work or to the GO station. Burlington was never built as a pedestrian or cycling friendly city. Distances are too far between, shopping, services, appointments, sports activities. When I go to Toronto I take the GO train, and subway or buses to get around or walk. There is no comparison between the ease of getting around Toronto to Burlington on public transit.” Eva Amos and Ruth Langdon have each lived in Burlington for more than 40 years. They are the epitome of decent people who expect decent services from their municipal government and straight answers to their questions. Both were school teachers who met each other at the curling rink and now play golf together. “New Street was a functional east/west road for years. Now with the population growing, Councillors decide to narrow this major east/west roadway. “I fail to see the logic. It seems I am not alone” – there are at least 2641 people who share that view. This story isn’t over yet. The online petition is still open and can be found at: bit.ly/newstreetroaddiet
December 26th, 2016 BURLINGTON, ON
It has come to this: On Dec 24, 2016, at 11:06 AM, philip waggett wrote: Back in August, I commented that the data collection along New Street was a “sham”, this was not a “test” but a fait accompli in which the bike lanes were now permanent. In fact two comments from the recent minutes of the Cycling Committee support this view. In October, the Cycling Committee minutes reported “…Phase Two will look at the possibility of physcial separation of the bike lanes and car lanes…”; in November, the minutes reported, “Report that New Street will be going next fall”. Both of these comments indicate that the Cycling Committee believe that the New Street Bike Lanes are a permanent fixture–despite the widespread opposition of thousands of residents!!!!! Further, the October minutes of this special interest lobby group reveal that $1800 of valuable taxpayers money was approved to buy “free(?) giveaways” at the inspire burlington event in November. The giveaways apparently promoted that “cycling is delightful”. Why are valuable taxpayers resources being used for this purpose? At 7:14 am Christmas Day Ward 4 city Councillor |Jack Dennison wrote Phil The new street bike lanes are absolutely not a done deal, it will depend on if there is a reduction in accidents in that stretch and not a significant increase in travel times, all of which will be reported on. Phil, Merry Christmas and Happy New year to you and yours Our hope is that Jack was up at that hour with those that matter in his life. The bike lanes on New Street can just wait until the New Year,
December 23, 2016 BURLINGTON, ON
Fixed! The ice pads at Mainway Arena have reopened following a temporary closure to complete unexpected repairs. Two of the three compressors used at the arena to help maintain the ice surface stopped working and required replacement. The new compressors were installed this week and the ice pads are restored and ready for the Golden Horseshoe Tournament starting on Dec. 27 in Burlington. The pressure to get those compressors in place was driven by the 100 AAA + major-age teams who are arriving in Burlington arenas for its traditional Dec. 27-30 slot in the schedule.
Despite increased competition from other holiday tournaments over the past few years, the Horseshoe still thrives. Fratesi thinks the reason is simple. “We run a great tournament,” he said matter-of-factly. “We have the core guys that have the format down now. There’s a lot of grunt work that has to be done when you have 236 games to schedule in four days.” Perks that players and parents remember — spotlights on the player during the championship games introductions, for example — have become a mainstay. Others, such as the introduction of a the FFP Laser Systems show at the opening ceremonies and championship games last year, are adding to the event’s lustre.
December 22, 2016 BURLINGTON, ON
Most of us are rushing to get tasks done that just have to be done before we ease up for a few days away from what usually occupies us Monday to Friday, City of Burlington administrative services will be closed from Monday, Dec. 26, 2016 until Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2017. Parks and Recreation Programs and Facilities: Activities and customer service hours at city pools, arenas and community centres vary over the holidays. For a complete listing of program times visit burlington.ca/play For a complete listing of service hours and customer service locations visit burlington.ca/servicehours Burlington Transit and Handi-Van Service Hours: The Downtown Transit Terminal will be closed Dec. 25 and 26, 2016 as well as Jan. 1, 2017. It will be closed early (2 p.m.) on Dec. 24 and 31. Date Service schedule/hours Dec. 24 Service ends early at approximately 8 p.m. Dec. 25 No service Dec. 26 Saturday service hours Dec. 27 to Dec. 30 Regular service Dec. 31 Saturday service extended until approximately 2 a.m. Jan. 1 No service Roads and Parks Maintenance: The administrative office will be closed on Monday, Dec. 26, 2016 and will reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2017. Only winter control and emergency services will be provided. Parking: Free parking is available in the downtown core at all meters, municipal lots and the parking garage during the month of December and on Jan. 1, 2017. NOTE: The Waterfront parking lots (east and west) do not provide free parking on statutory holidays.
December 14th, 2106 BURLINGTON, ON
Centennial Pool will be closed for maintenance starting Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017 and will re-open on Sunday, Jan. 8. To find other swim locations and times, please visit www.burlington.ca/play.
December 13th, 2016 BURLINGTON, ON
They came to town as the Twins, were sold and became the Bandits. The Intercounty Baseball League team has been sold again and is now to be known as the Burlington Herd. Herd was selected to pay homage to the Burlington Organized Minor Baseball Associations 60th anniversary and their premier rep program nicknamed the Bulls.  Will new ownership and a new name make a difference in the box score? The new owners intend to give it all they’ve got. Along with a new nickname and logo, the Intercounty Baseball Club has announced a transfer of ownership from Scott Robinson to local Burlington residents Ryan Harrison, Jason McKay and Dan Pokoradi. “Our group is very excited to continue IBL baseball in Burlington” said new IBL Burlington President Ryan Harrison. “Myself along with our board member have a passion for baseball in the city and believe with continued support from the City of Burlington, BOMBA and other local baseball organizations, we can build this team as a destination on Thursday nights and Saturday afternoons.” A tribute to the history of baseball in Burlington, the “Herd” signifies the unification of two current baseball entities within the city. The new identity encompasses the Bulls theme, starting with the team colors of navy blue, yellow and white and continuing with the familiar Bull logo. “Our goal was to give the baseball fans of Burlington a team and identity they can call their own,” said Herd President Ryan Harrison. “Burlington is full of traditions woven into the fabric of the city, and this new tradition will be something local and iconic and celebrate what makes Burlington and Minor League Baseball so great: family and fun.” The new on-field cap will feature a stylized “B” for Burlington on a navy and yellow hat.  Burlington MP Karina Gould throwing out the first pitch. She will need a new jersey next season. “We wanted to create a name and a brand that allowed the heart of this city to shine through it,” said Harrison. “While we take our responsibility to provide affordable family entertainment very seriously, we also want to embrace the fun which permeates through Burlington. We will continue to create a festive atmosphere with great partners in a clean, immaculate environment where you can bring your family.” The Herd take the field for the first time on Saturday, May 13, 2017 at the Barn (Nelson Park). Season tickets and group packages are now on sale by calling (905) 630-9036 or by visiting the team’s new website, burlingtonherd.com. The Herd can be followed on social media platforms (“iblherd”), including Facebook.com/iblherd.
December 8th, 2016 BURLINGTON, ON
 Chris Glenn, Director of Parks and Recreation The City of Burlington is ready for winter fun with the launch of its Neighbourhood Rink program, the opening of Rotary Centennial Pond at the waterfront in downtown Burlington and dedicated locations for tobogganing. Neighbourhood Rinks This month, city staff will install boards for 13 ice pads in various parks throughout Burlington that will be maintained by neighbourhood volunteer groups. The rinks are open to the public and free to use. The following locations will host a Neighbourhood Rink for the upcoming season: • Brant Hills Park Rotary Centennial Pond  Centennial Pond will be open from 10 am to 10 pm – closed on Christmas Day. The outdoor ice at Rotary Centennial Pond is scheduled to open on Dec. 10, ice conditions permitting. Located at the waterfront in downtown Burlington, the pond hosts nearly 9,000 skaters each year. The rink is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends and school holidays and from 5 to 10 p.m. on weekday evenings. The pond is closed on Christmas Day. New this year, the city is asking residents to donate gently used skates they no longer need. These skate donations will be used for a skate lending program at Rotary Centennial Pond. “The skate lending program has been created to help eliminate barriers for people who may want to give recreational skating a try,” said Glenn. “We hope the skate lending program will encourage residents and visitors to try a new sport, learn some new skills and get outside and play this winter.” Skate donations can be dropped off at city pools, arenas and community centres. Tobogganing  This is what tobogganing is all about. The city has designated six areas in the city that are safe for tobogganing. They include: • LaSalle Park, east of the parking lot With snow flurries in the air the city might be about to begin a real winter.
December 8th 2016 BURLINGTON, ON
The Barracudas, Burlington Girls Hockey Club (BGHC) picked up one GOLD medal and two SILVER medals at the Whitby Tournament of Heroes this past weekend (December 1-3, 2016). Barracudas Coach Mark Cernjul lead two teams to victory: Novice A who brought home the Gold Medal and the Peewee B team who earned Silver. Our Bantam BB team brought home a second Silver Medal. The organization, Burlington’s not-for-profit hockey club, offers girls a fun environment to play Canada’s favourite sport; this year they brought home three tournament medals from the Whitby Tournament of Heroes played December 1-3, 2016. Novice A — Gold Medalists  Back Row (l to r): Rosanna Morales, Head Coach Mark Cernjul, Tom Hill, Erica Olsen-Sharman Third Row (l to r): Maya O’Leary, Isabella Nagy, Addison Butler, Kylie Penrose, Sadie Allen, Sophie Weber Second Row (l to r): Audrey Hurtubise, Annika Sharman, Mackenzie Ferguson, Violet Steinstra, Mikayla Barnes, Lauren Hill, Taylor Cernjul, Lizzie Petit, Front Row: Goalie, Avery Goulet Peewee B — Silver Medalists  Back Row (l to r): Mike McColl, Head Coach Mark Cernjul, Dave Crumpton, Andy Southall, Susan Clarke Last row (l to r): Natalie Coward, Fayth Wilkins, Taylor Cooper, Isabella Convey, Olivia Chard, Ella Weber, Julia Banting, Madelaine Southall, Lia McColl Second row (l to r): Jessica DeHaan, Tia Nelson, Lucia McColl, Jenna Cernjul, Jasalyn Jolly, Ella McColl Front row (l to r): Melissa Clarke. Missing in the picture: Back-up Goalie – Katherine Stevenson
Bantam BB — Silver Medalists  Back Row (l to r): Coach Bryan Uba, Trainer Stephanie Armstrong, Coach Stephen Day Renee Doucet, Hayden Serniuk, Madison Uba, Katie Armstrong, Ella Seaward, Reagen Day, Head Coach Marc Brennan, Coach Peter Degan Bottom row (l to r): Emma Woudstra, Eve Quevillon, Ashley Cooper, Savannah Staszkiel, Olivia Brennan, Amanda Degan, Jodie Fitzgerald, Maddie Mitchell, Rylee Crowley Goalies: Kieran Theodoropoulous and Laurence Gagnon There are more than 750 girls (and growing) playing Canada’s favourite sport for girls ages 4 to 21 at both the house league and competitive (rep) levels.
Jennifer Buchalter, BGHC | Director of Communications and Promotion would love to talk to you – Email | communications@bghc.ca
November 28, 2016 BURLINGTON, ON
The long, long, long term plans for the Beachway Park in the west end of the city are still on the drawing boards – the park planned for the east end of the city is much closer to reality. Halton Region, the City of Burlington, the Town of Oakville and Conservation Halton are starting work on Burloak Regional Waterfront Park. This is the first phase of the park’s master plan, approved in 2014.  Architects conceptual drawing of where the pathways in the Burloak Park will be located. The park improve-ments for phase one, include: • a new accessible pathway along the waterfront,  Rob Peachey, manager of parks and open spaces with the City of Burlington. “One of the first steps in achieving these improvements is to restore the natural ecosystem along the shoreline by removing invasive trees and shrubs, which are mostly Siberian elms and Norway Maples,” said Rob Peachey, manager of parks and open spaces with the City of Burlington. “Invasive trees have a harmful effect on the ability of native tree species to take hold. Removing these invasive trees is critical for the ecological restoration of the shoreline, including the function the area plays as a resting area for many migratory birds.” City arborists and environmental experts are involved in identifying which trees and shrubs need to be removed. They will also help choose native replacement trees to be planted in the spring of 2017.  A rendering of the gazebo that will be part of the park. Residents are invited to join the City of Burlington, Councillor Paul Sharman and Halton Region for an informal information session on Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2016 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Hearthstone by the Lake, Pig and Whistle building, 100 Burloak Dr., Burlington, at the northwest corner of Burloak Drive and Lakeshore Road. The park is just one significant change planned for the east end. The Skyway Plaza renovation – they are calling it the Skyway Village. Cynthia Zahorak, the architect on the project has put all kinds of trees in what was a parking lot.  The light yellow portion is where the current plaza is locate. To the north of that is the Skyway arena. The arrows show the flow of traffic from the arena to the Burloak Park that will see the light of day in 2017. No dates yet on when this project might get to the point where shovels are in the ground – it was planned to tie into a serious upgrade to the Skyway arena – that is in the 2017 capital budget – yet to be approved.
October 17, 2016 BURLINGTON, ON Approximately 3.4 per cent of Ontarians have a moderate to severe gambling problem. This means that about 26,500 adults in the City of Hamilton and Halton Region are estimated to be negatively impacted.  You’ve lost it all – now what do you do? Help is available. Many of these people think they will win big. The truth is that some will gamble to the point that they damage their finances, relationships and health. Problem gambling can be financially and emotionally devastating for the individual involved and the most important people in their lives. “When gambling becomes a source of worry or stress, it’s important to listen to yourself”, says Jon Kelly, CEO, Responsible Gambling Council. “Ignoring changing feelings potentially puts both you and the people you care about at risk.” The good news is that paying attention to how you feel about your gambling is the first step to early detection of a potential gambling problem. Having mixed feelings about your gambling? If so, listen to yourself If your gambling has stopped being fun and has become a source of stress and worry, it’s time to take a break and reflect. Anxiety, guilt or frustration are common early warning signals that, if ignored, can lead to a potential gambling problem. The consequences of which can be emotionally and financially devastating not just for you but also for your family and friends. During Problem Gambling Prevention Week, which runs in the City of Hamilton and Halton Region from October 17th to October 23rd, RGC is urging people to listen carefully to how they feel about their gambling. What are some early signs of a potential gambling problem: • Feeling guilty, anxious, frustrated or worried about your gambling.  The thrill of the horses thundering towards the finish line is one thing – the money you blew on a ticket that didn’t win is another. What to do when you have mixed feelings: • The most important thing is to listen to yourself and recognize that these feelings are there for a reason. When they arise, take a break from gambling and do something else. Get back to those other activities that you enjoy. How to get help There is free and confidential help available for those who feel they may have a problem. You can find contact information for local resources at www.knowthesigns.ca or you can call the Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline 1-888-230-3505. For more about the emotional and behavioural signs to watch for and how to protect yourself, go to www.knowthesigns.ca.  They are the reverse of an ATM – you just keep putting money in. Residents in the City of Hamilton and Halton Region can access local help at: • Burlington: ADAPT (The Halton Alcohol, Drug, & Gambling Assessment, Prevention and Treatment Program – 905-639-6537 or 1-866-783-7073 The Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) is an independent non-profit organization dedicated to problem gambling prevention. RGC works to reduce gambling risks by creating and delivering innovative awareness and information programs. It also promotes the adoption of improved play safeguards through best practices research, standards development and the RG Check accreditation program. RGC is committed to bringing together all perspectives in the reduction of gambling problems, including those of people with firsthand experience with gambling problems, gaming providers, regulators, policy makers and treatment professionals.
October 12th, 2016 BURLINGTON, ON
This didn’t go down very well with at least one parent. “The Punch” photograph – a signed Odor baseball and Jose Bautista jersey.  The picture, the signed baseball and a jersey – they raised $500 for BOMBA – was it appropriate asks a parent? The silent auction ran for the duration of the Blue Jays – Rangers series – that was just three games wasn’t it? The parent that contacted the Gazette explained that the BOMBA – Burlington Organized Minor Baseball association – administrator sent an email with a link to the auction. “My 6 year old son has played baseball for the past couple years. I think to promote to baseball players fighting and being punched in the face and then using this incident to raise money for any youth sport is in very bad taste and judgement. What do you think?” Indeed what do parents think?
September 30th, 2016 BURLINGTON, ON
A number of the articles we publish draw comments from readers – where the debate can continue for some time. The cycling lanes on New Street is one of those debates that isn’t over yet.  Will we see the Mayor on his bike driving to city hall along New Street? We usually leave the debates in the comment section however a comment from Chris Amiens, a cyclist for whom we have a lot of respect, is one we decided to pull from the comments section and put it into the ongoing news category. Responding to a short piece I wrote about the traffic I experienced on New Street during a rush hour earlier this week Amiens said: “Not one of your best articles, Pepper. Did you ask anyone from the city what they are doing to measure? More investigative journalism and less supposition is required. He went on to say: “ At Tuesday’s (September 27) Cycling Committee meeting, the Transportation department shared an update on the New Street pilot. “One of the recommendations we made to Council was to “measure everything”. I came away from this update encouraged that the city’s Staff are doing just that. “They aren’t using the tubes in the road, because those are less effective. They are using Bluetooth technology to measure travel times and installing cameras that will count vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians 24/7 (including both the street and the sidewalks). They will be installing the tubes on parallel and side streets like Spruce to measure traffic impacts there. They are even having drones capture video of rush hour traffic. They are getting feedback from not only the public, but transit, police and emergency services to measure the impacts. “Whatever your position on the New Street project, it is clear to me that staff are doing their utmost to capture all of the relevant metrics so that the City can make the most informed decision.” This is great stuff – but why is the public learning about it in a comment made by a member of the Cycling Advisory committee? I am impressed with the lengths the city is going to – what’s it going to cost? However, I want to know why there hasn’t been a single word from the Transportation department on what they plan to do.  Mayor Goldring: Thinking it over? Given that the cycling lanes are one of the hotter issues for a number of people. Given that the Mayor said he is approached by citizens on this issue constantly – is this not an issue that the city’s communications staff could get something out on? It is an issue – not all that big when compared to others – think budget, Strategic Plan and the Transportation New Directions that have been put on the table, but it has people agitated. What is particularly telling is the city’s inability to get in front of a story and just tell people what they are going to do. Could they not just talk about being accountable and transparent and actually ‘walk their talk’ rather than continually being reactive ? Peter Paul and Mary made the point in their song: “When will they ever learn?”
September 21, 2016 BURLINGTON, ON
 Opening day delayed until late October. The opening of Aldershot Arena will be delayed until late October because of a delay in the manufacture and shipping of a new heat exchange unit for the arena’s ice plant. For recreational skating, please check our calendar for skate times at other locations.
September 18, 2016 BURLINGTON, ON
Something in the order of 1000 British motor cars covered the grassy fields at Bronte Provincial Park today as the Toronto Triumph Club hosted their 33rd annual British Car Day.  This MG was an 80 year old model – running like a charm. Millions of pounds of machinery from a low-end 1950 Morris Series MM to “the Rolls Royce of cars”, the Rolls Royce. And more if price is no object. There Jaguars (or Jag-u-ars depending upon your pronunciation), Triumph, Lotus, Sunbeam, MG and Land Rovers.  The close-up photo of the engine that drives the Morgan Three wheeler.  Alan Harrington got behind the wheel of the Morgan Three Wheeler. The oldest car was a 1933 Morgan 3 wheeler painted a very light sky-blue. The owner has had the car for 50 years. It seats two but the passenger on the left has to help with left/right hand signals.  Fords Yellow 1994 TVR Griffith 500 Getting in and out of this “no-door” three wheeler is a minor task even for a yoga master. At the back of the field are a dozen DeLoreans lined up gull-wing to gull-wing. DMC was the star of the Back to the Future film and one was decked out with the flux capacitor. DeLoreans were made in Northern Ireland that allows them to join all the other British made vehicles.  The Rolls Royce with a table in the rear Harrington was quite taken with the Grey Poupon mustard.  The trusty Land Rover that really didn’t need the Union Jack to show its British pedigree. Alan Harrington, who is a regular at this annual event, managed to get himself behind the wheel of the Morgan; getting out was apparently a bit of a challenge. Cars on display with anniversary years included MG TA Midget and Triumph Vitesse (80 years) the RED one in the photo and Morris Minor 1000 (60 years), cream coloured in the background of the photo with the gentleman with fancy hosiery.  The DeLorean was used in the Back to the Future film and one was decked out with the flux capacitor. Comment from a reader: “Land Rover that didn’t need the British flag…” was really a second world war Willys MB made in Toledo, Ohio. The Land Rover and the Austin Gypsy were England’s answer to the Willys Jeep, which was the original. The role it played in defending England from Nazi tyranny is apparently good enough to allow it into this all-British event, and I enjoy seeing them displayed. Incidentally, the Land Rover display was the largest I have ever seen and also very enjoyable. The music played during the event was was all 60’s British Invasion music; the treat for the nose was the faint whiff of incomplete gasoline combustion. Food was available for the other senses. All the photographs were taken by Harrington, except for the one of him in the Morgan – that was taken by Dave smith, the owner of the vehicle. Back to the Future film and one was decked out with the flux The show is an annual event – takes place the third Sunday of September – website –
September 8, 2016 BURLINGTON, ON
The City of Burlington has been approved for funding to support a number of infrastructure projects around the city. This funding opportunity is through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program in connection with the Government of Canada’s celebration of our country’s 150th anniversary of confederation in 2017. The Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario has approved a total of up to $247,287 for eight projects in Burlington under the first intake of the program: 1. Central Park Washroom Accessibility Upgrades  Cenotaph was recently restored. Hopefully that restoration included changes to the plaque that described the monument that was filled with errors. See the related story. Restoration work has been completed on the Cenotaph War Memorial at City Hall. Karina Gould, Burlington’s Member of Parliament said “The upgrades funded through Canada 150 will continue to provide members of the community with safe and accessible public facilities. This funding will allow the people of Burlington and their families to enjoy moments of sport, recreation, leisure and contemplation for years to come.” These projects were approved by Burlington City Council for eligible costs totaling over $833,000. The remaining project funds will come from the city’s capital budgets in 2016, 2017 and 2018. The Gazette doesn’t recall these projects being discussed at council and we are unaware of any public input. It appears that the city sough $833,000 and got $247,287 The people in the east end of the city would certainly have liked to have seen the replacing of the Nelson pool on that list.
September 5, 2016 BURLINGTON, ON Right-handed pitcher Emillis Guerrero, a 31-year-old native of the Dominican Republic, is the IBL playoff MVP for 2016.  Emillis Guerrero floats one right down the middle named playoff MVP Guerrero recorded a complete game victory Sunday afternoon at Christie Pits in the championship clincher that had the Barrie Baycats win in four straight games.. During the post-season he recorded four wins and in 49 innings pitched he recorded 41 strikeouts, just four walks and finished with a playoff ERA of 2.02.
September 4, 2016 TORONTO, ON The Toronto Maple Leafs just couldn’t get any traction – the team has shown great gusto in the quarter and semi-finals but when it came to the IBL Championship games – the Barrie Baycats didn’t give them any room. The Barrie Baycats swept the Toronto Maple Leafs to win their third straight Intercounty Baseball League championship. Jordan Castaldo had two home runs and three RBI in Game 4. The Baycats infielder homered four times and drove in 12 in the final. Emilis Guerrero (4-1) went the distance, allowing five runs (four earned) on 16 hits with four strikeouts and no walks. Dan Marra had three singled and an RBI, Sean Mattson went 3-for-5 with a run, Jonathan Solazzo singled twice and scored twice, Justin Marra had two hits and scored once, and Grant Tamane added a pair of singles. Mike Wagner (4-1) took the loss, giving up three runs on four hits in three innings of relief. Wagner struck out three without issuing a walk. Starter Brett van Pelt lasted six innings and allowed four runs (three earned) on five hits, striking out three and walking one.
September 3, 2016 BARRIE, ON
For a while they looked like the little engine that could but with three games lost against the championship defending Barrie Baycats – it looks like the Toronto Maple Leafs are about to get ready to end their season – with perhaps four straight loses. A five-run eighth inning moved the Barrie Baycats one step closer to the Intercounty Baseball League championship.
Kevin Atkinson delivered the biggest blow in the eighth, smashing a three-run home run to give Barrie a 9-6 lead. Glenn Jackson added a two-run double with two outs. Jordan Castaldo had two hits, two runs and an RBI, Ryan Spataro and Branfy Infante each had a hit and had an RBI, Kyle Nichols doubled and drove in a pair of runs and scored once, and Joey Guaranga went 3-for-4 with a run. Adam Hawes (2-0) picked up the win in relief, throwing 1.1 innings of scoreless one-hit ball with a strikeout and walk. Adam Rowe started and allowed five runs (four earned) on five hits over six innings, striking out three and walking two. For Toronto, Jonathan Solazzo doubled and had three RBI and a run to lead the Leafs’ offence. Dan Marra singled and drove in a run and scored once, Jon Waltenbury singled twice and scored a run, and Connor Lewis singled and doubled. Justin Cicatello (1-2) took the loss, allowing 10 runs (six earned) on 11 hits in seven innings, striking out five and walking six. 2016 IBL playoffs
August 31, 2016 TORONTO, ON
It took extra innings for the Barrie Baycats to win a slugfest at Christie Pits. The Baycats scored five runs in the top of the 11th inning to beat the Toronto Maple Leafs 15-12 on Wednesday night and take a 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven IBL final. Barrie had a runner on first with two out in the 11th before a single and walk loaded the bases, and a Toronto error allowed Jeff Cowan to score.
Kevin Atkinson drove in a pair of runs, and Branfy Infante singled twice and scored four times. Barrie starter Matthew St. Kitts lasted 3.2 innings, allowing eight runs (seven earned) on eight hits, striking out four and walking one. Toronto hit six of the game’s eight home runs. Jon Waltenbury went deep twice, hitting a solo home run to lead off the third inning and adding a two-run shot in the fourth. He also scored four times. Justin Marra hit his seventh home run of the playoffs and drove in three, while Brendan Keys went 4-for-5 with a home run and two RBI. Sean Mattson and Jonathan Solazzo hit back-to-back home runs to start the bottom of the 11th as the Leafs tried to mount another comeback, but Grant Tamane struck out to end the game with runners on second and third. Connor Lewis had three hits and a run. Solazzo (0-2) took the loss, giving up five runs (none earned) on three hits in an inning of relief, striking out three and walking two. Mike Wagner started for Toronto and gave up eight runs (seven earned) on seven hits over 6.2 innings, striking out seven and walking six. 2016 IBL playoffs Barrie leads series 2-0 Game 1: Barrie 4, Toronto 3
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Seven of those teams are host Eagles teams (two in tyke, one in the remaining five major age groups) donning the colours of the Burlington City Rep Hockey Club.
The events concludes with the six championship games on Tuesday, Dec. 30. The site of the games prevents Cogeco from showing the games live (signal interference) so games are tape delayed.
For more information about these teams, who seem to win every year their web site is bghc.ca . You can follow them on Twitter and Instagram @BGHC_Newsa The Facebook Page at Burlington Girls Hockey Club.
Barrie used the big inning to beat the Toronto Maple Leafs 11-6 Saturday night and leads the best-of-seven final 3-0. The Baycats can clinch the Dominico Trophy on Sunday afternoon at Christie Pits at 2 p.m.