 By Robert Fennell
October 22, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Can gambling be a hobby, or is it just an addiction? Continue reading to find out if gambling is a hobby and how to identify that it turned into an addiction.
There is no denying that gambling is incredibly attractive in terms of the fun and excitement it provides. It is also quite tempting due to the chance of winning a big payout. Many people gamble for different reasons; it can be a source of entertainment for some, it can be a source of income for some, and some gamble because they find it difficult to give up. It is vital to know why you are gambling to know if it is a hobby or it has become an addiction.
Gambling as a Hobby
 Gambling can be fun – just know your limits and have fun. A hobby can be described as any activity a person does and enjoys in their spare time for fun. It is a hobby as long as they derive pleasure from doing it. Activities like gardening, cycling, watching movies, watching sports games, racing, singing, and many more are hobbies that many people enjoy doing.
And for some, gambling is a hobby that they enjoy. They take different gambling activities like placing bets on sports and casino games as a source of entertainment. These people tend to visit casinos or claim bonuses like the 1 deposit casinos bonuses online to play games for fun. In some circles, there is a stereotype that gambling is a bad habit and that most people who engage in it are addicted. However, just because a person enjoys the activity a lot doesn’t necessarily mean that they are addicted to it. As long as you have strict schedules and plans for your gaming activities and stick to it religiously, it won’t become a compulsive habit, and it would be difficult for you to get addicted to it.
Gambling as an Addiction
Addiction happens when an activity has become a habit of an individual, making it extremely difficult to stop or give it up. It is normal to lose money when playing casino games, but it now becomes an addiction when you deviate from your established pattern, start chasing losses and find it difficult to stop. When gambling stops being fun and starts to become an obsession for you, you should know that you are starting to get addicted.
 All in – seldom a good place to be. Whatever the limit it – it isn’t being observed Gambling addicts get obsessed with chasing the high they get from anticipating their bets’ results and end up in the cycle of losing and trying to recover it by continuing to gamble. Eventually, such people’s activities trigger a lot of consequences, which gets them into financial trouble and affects their mental health and their relationships with their friends and family.
Signs to Recognize Potential Gambling Addictive Behaviors
There are various signs and behavioural patterns that you can use to know if you are getting addicted and need to either take a step back or stop. Some of the signs to know that gambling activity is becoming an addiction:
Ways to Avoid Turning Your Gambling Hobby into an Addiction
- Don’t let gambling be a coping mechanism for boredom or problems that you are facing
- Find another hobby you can enjoy
How to Try and Treat Gambling Addiction
- Admit you have a problem
- Get support
- Avoid any avenues and environments that will lead to it
- Replace gambling with other positive activities or hobbies
- Ask for help
There is a thin line between a hobby and an addiction because it is often our hobbies that usually end up turning into addictions. Being addicted to gambling doesn’t happen in a day, so it is important to monitor yourself to know when your habit is getting out of control, and your hobby starts to become an obsession.
By Michele Bogle
October 22, 2020
BURLINGTON, ONTARIO
 Everyone has a patio Named after the football team, the ‘Florida Gators’, this family restaurant has celebrated more than 45 years of doing business in Burlington, renamed to in 1994. The location has survived continued expansions; both indoor and out, and a lengthy Human Rights legal battle. Ted Kindos, co-owner of Gator Ted’s with his mother, contemplated selling in 2013. Fortunately for the community, Ted reconsidered and committed to continuing on.
This hot spot, known for its beer and wings enjoyed while watching sports on the numerous screens also serves up other tasty dishes. Gator Ted’s ‘Halibut & Chips’ can be found on the Taste of Burlington’s Pre-Fixe menu.
From the menu, we chose their fish & chips. It has been my experience to have found a generous amount of fish inside the beer-battered coating with freshly cut fries with a side of crisp coleslaw. A rich slice of pecan pie finished the meal off just right. The menu offers a lot of value in this $25 dinner.”
 They don’t skimp on the portions For a reasonable price of $25 you could also choose from a selection of soup or salad; a medley of pastas in their ‘Tour of Italy’, Jambalaya.
Great location for groups. Patio seating is available. No reservation was required, but our contact information was collected at the door where our temperature was taken. This location also invested in a facial temperature scanner. The booths are stationary; the guests were seated with the appropriate safety regulation spacing. Masks were worn by staff and patrons who moved about the establishment.
 Some bacon bits in there as well. As a reminder; for more information on the Pre-Fixe menu options during this dining event that ends on October 25, 2020, please check the Taste of Burlington website for more details. https://tasteofburlington.ca/prix-fixe-program/. Remember to sign up for the Taste of Burlington Passport to make menu selections from the app, paperless. The more you check-in from the app, the more chances you have of winning the weekly gift certificate giveaway and eligible for the grand prize of a $500 gift card to a restaurant of choice. This is useful for family gatherings now that the holidays are approaching.
 Michele Bogle is a Burlington resident who writes for the Gazette on community issues. Ms Bogle has taken part in the Food Network for the second year in a row to audition for the ‘Great Chocolate Showdown’ 2020 and 2021. She made it to the second stage of auditions for ‘Wall of Chefs’ 2019 and finished top 1% of auditions last year for ‘The Great Canadian Baking Show’.
By Michele Bogle
October 22, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Studebaker owners, Anand and Naomi Maharaj dreamed of opening an eating establishment together. They opened in February of 2019,
 All of Studebaker’s ingredients are fresh, and they’re proud to note that their food is made in-house; down to the hand-cut fries and delectable desserts. The Maharaj’s not only concerned with the food that they serve, but also of the image that Studebaker projects. “We are a modern-day upscale diner, where you can feel comfortable and relaxed, like being in a room full of friends.”
There’s a vibe that’s unlike many eating establishments; maybe it’s because it’s new, or because those working there seem invested in making sure that the atmosphere feels upbeat and well-run.
Everything looked clean. The staff wore masks, the tables were not pre-set and were spaced apart appropriately. Our contact information was taken on the phone when we made our reservation. They also offer extended outdoor tented seating, with heaters.
Every Friday they have live entertainment. Check out their website for details. https://studebakerburlington.com/
 Crispy Brie We started with our Pre-Fixe appetizer; part of the menu designed exclusively for the Taste of Burlington Fall Dining Event. A ‘Crispy Brie’ served with a cranberry chutney, roasted walnuts and perfectly toasted crostinis which had the texture of delicious buttery garlic toasts.
 Mac & Cheese – for the cheese lovers there is no better place to be. The entrees; a moist 6-ounce ‘Grilled Salmon’ fillet over parsnip puree, with roasted parsnips and cauliflower; ‘Triple Mac & Cheese’ which was visually unappealing but if you’re a cheese-lover you’ll appreciate the mozzarella, asiago, smoked cheddar combination that’s fabulous when eaten; lastly the ‘Duck Leg Cassoulet’ which is duck confit with a bed of spicy chorizo, carrot and cannellini bean ragout. A hearty combination that’s flavourful and filling.
 Apple crumble with a really decent size scoop of ice cream For dessert Studebaker offers a hot, crisp apple crumble made with Ontario-grown apples, topped with vanilla ice cream; or a ‘Cinnamon Bun Cheesecake’. This New York-style cheesecake has cinnamon swirls within and is topped with cream cheese frosting. Both are divine.
Studebaker
2535 Appleby Line
Burlington, ON L7L 0B6
905-331-7878
For more information on the Pre-Fixe menu options during this dining event that ends on October 25, 2020, please check the Taste of Burlington website for more details. https://tasteofburlington.ca/prix-fixe-program/. Remember to sign up for the Taste of Burlington Passport to make menu selections from the app, paperless. The more you check-in from the app, the more chances you have of winning the weekly gift certificate giveaway and eligible for the grand prize of a $500 gift card to a restaurant of choice. This is useful for family gatherings now that the holidays are approaching.
Michele Bogle is a Burlington resident who writes for the Gazette on community issues. Ms Bogle has taken part in the Food Network for the second year in a row to audition for the ‘Great Chocolate Showdown’ 2020 and 2021. She made it to the second stage of auditions for ‘Wall of Chefs’ 2019 and finished top 1% of auditions last year for ‘The Great Canadian Baking Show’.
By Michele Bogle
October 21st, 2020
BURLINGTON, ONTARIO
Originating in Ontario in 1992, two of Turtle Jack’s franchised locations are conveniently located at either end of Burlington. One located at the Mapleview Mall at Maple Ave and Fairview St; and the other at Appleby and Ironstone giving you the convenience of not having to travel far to this popular fine-dining eatery.
 This may be a chain of commercial restaurants but it doesn’t compromise when it comes to quality food and flavours. The decor is trendy and lighting is low for a stylish, yet inviting setting.
Of course, everyone donned a mask, both staff and patrons – evident when entering. There are direction markers on the floor in an effort to avoid close contact while moving within the restaurant. Much of their seating are booths and cannot be moved; temporary plexiglass partitions were erected in between them. No reservation is required for small groups when contact information is typically gathered, but rather it’s collected, at the door. Standard practices seemed to be in place; the tables weren’t pre-set.
Although it was a Saturday night, there was no evidence that the Appleby location was suffering from a decline in patronage. At 6:30 Turtle Jack’s was at full capacity, adhering to the new guidelines of safely spaced seating, and a two metre spaced lineup developed at the door.
There was a family of ‘energetic’ people with resounding voices seated near to us. The General Manager asked if we were at all bothered. Another time my answer may have been different, but today I was quite happy to hear the sounds of ‘life’ in an otherwise quieted environment of late.
Even having looked ahead at the Pre-Fixe Taste of Burlington Menu for Turtle Jack’s, I was still undecided when I arrived. Their three course menu choices, exclusive to this dining event, all looked entirely too delicious to pick just one from each course offered. I really wanted to try the ‘Seafood Chowder’, therefore reluctantly eliminated the blackened bass from my entree choice. My son chose the ‘4 Cheese Cajun Chicken Penne’, so I knew that I’d get to sample a little; and happily landed on the steak.
 I really wanted to try the Seafood Chowder – it did not disappoint. The seafood chowder has a blend of flavours that hits your palate in the most delightful way. While just the right serving size as an appetizer, it left me wanting more.
 Steak that passed my touch test. My family, well aware that I avoid ordering steak anywhere because of the exhausting disappointment expressed when the temperature of my steak is wrong. I had noticed them shoot one of those glances that expressed concern over my choice. I hadn’t ordered steak in some time and after tasting the well-balanced blend of flavours in the chowder, I thought I’d give this restaurant the heavy task of impressing me.
The presentation for me, is a great part of the sensory preparation for what is about to be enjoyed. On paper, I had ordered steak and potatoes. Quite straight forward. The plating of my “Certified Angus Beef 8OZ Top Sirloin” was 5-star quality. On my plate was a pillow of fluffy mashed potatoes with just the right amount of salt added; crisp sauteed green beans and mushrooms; then in the centre a perfectly-sized steak with a medium-rare cook that I just knew by looking, as well gestured with great approval when doing the finger touch and it sprung back; adorned with evenly cut, buttermilk-dipped onion strings. It’s quite easy to destroy a steak.
My tastebuds rejoiced at the ‘sight’ of this dish. When the General Manager came around to ask how everything was, I was quite pleased to respond with, “perfect’ followed by the sounds of my family unanimously exhaling, then resuming their conversation. The seasonings worked well together. I thoroughly enjoyed this dish.
 Cheese Cajun Chicken Penne The ‘4 Cheese Cajun Chicken Penne’ is always going to be a palate-pleaser if you’re a cheese lover. The combination of cheeses: Asiago, mozzarella, cheddar and feta produced a very satisfying flavour combination. What was remarkable to me was the presence of cheddar that I could taste. It usually takes a back seat to the other flavourful cheeses, but I loved it! It was made with quality Barilla pasta; complemented with a tender piece of blackened chicken.
 Heavenly brownie covered w/ a layer of caramel & chocolate caramel mousse. We moved on to the dessert, all of us ordering the ‘Turtle Pie’. Here is the restaurant’s description: “Heavenly brownie covered w/a layer of caramel & chocolate caramel mousse. Sprinkled w/walnuts & chocolate flakes.” First of all, the plating was beautiful. This dessert isn’t at all brownie-like. What I tasted was a slice of chocolate mousse that was exquisitely silky smooth, not too sweet. The drizzle of caramel was the right amount to complement this dessert. While the sprinkling of walnut pieces was present, I was captivated by the silkiness of the mousse.
During the course of the time spent at Turtle Jack’s, we had gaps when our server wasn’t present and would have made mention while there if it wasn’t for the General Manager who filled in those moments when we were looking for service, in a timely manner. I have never dined at Turtle Jack’s before last night, but I’d return. I give the food ‘3-thumbs up’.
For more information on the Pre-Fixe menu options during this dining event that ends on October 25, 2020, please check the Taste of Burlington website for more details. https://tasteofburlington.ca/prix-fixe-program/. Remember to sign up for the Taste of Burlington Passport to make menu selections from the app, paperless. The more you check-in from the app, the more chances you have of winning the weekly gift certificate giveaway and eligible for the grand prize of a $500 gift card to a restaurant of choice. This is useful for family gatherings now that the holidays are approaching.
Turtle Jack’s
1900 Appleby Line , Burlington, L7L 6A1
289-288-0390
OR
Turtle Jack’s
900 Maple Avenue Mapleview Centre, Burlington, L7L 6A1
289-288-0484
Michele Bogle is a Burlington resident who writes for the Gazette on community issues. Ms Bogle has taken part in the Food Network for the second year in a row to audition for the ‘Great Chocolate Showdown’ 2020 and 2021. She made it to the second stage of auditions for ‘Wall of Chefs’ 2019 and finished top 1% of auditions last year for ‘The Great Canadian Baking Show’.
By Michele Bogle
October 20, 2020
BURLINGTON, ONTARIO
 Without going into an extended history lesson on Neapolitan Cuisine, suffice it to note that its cuisine took much from the culinary traditions of Naples, Italy; reaching a balance between dishes based on rural ingredients (pasta, vegetables, cheese) and seafood dishes (fish, crustaceans, mollusks). Fortunately for us this tradition was brought to our very own Village Square by the Paradiso Restaurant Group in 2003, after great success opening the first Paradiso Restaurant in Oakville, in 1993. This Mediterranean gem has impressed guests since its inception. Tripadvisor rates it #10 out of more than 300 restaurants in Burlington and snagged a #2 spot on the top 10 best Italian restaurants in Burlington, by Yelp.
Taking part in the Taste of Burlington’s Fall Dining Pre-Fixe menu, we ordered the butternut squash soup; soup-of-the-day, and the ‘Baked Brie’ as our dinner appetizers. While we waited, freshly baked fragrant bread with tomato and carrot incorporated in it, among other seasonings, was placed before us to enjoy.
 Combined with a little extra nutmeg and cumin I believe that I tasted caramelized onion in a lighter than usual base. I’m constantly amazed at how squash soup can be modified and recreated to have the varieties of flavours that it has. This soup was again quite different in appearance. My curiosity peaked when I saw the colour cast of Paradiso’s butternut squash soup and had to taste some. Combined with a little extra nutmeg and cumin I believe that I tasted caramelized onion in a lighter than usual base. Quite delicious. I had ordered the Brie – a very generous serving of baked brie, wrapped in honey basted phyllo; paired with crostinis and a sweet tomato jam.
While there were several delectable choices, I thought that it made the most sense to try Paradiso’s signature pasta dish; Crab Ravioli. The description found online; Goat cheese stuffed ravioli, rock crab, tomatoes, chiffonade spinach, spicy basil cream sauce, says it all.
The flavours of each of these individual elements were present. I found myself scraping the bowl for final remnants of the not-too-spice cream sauce at the end.
Don’t be fooled by the portion size of the dessert offered. Flourless cakes are known for being extremely dense. This cake didn’t disappoint. The chocolate was a perfect compliment to the end of the meal. I couldn’t have eaten another bite.
 The chocolate was a perfect compliment to the end of the meal. The restaurant exercised the standard safety practices; face masks, table spacing, tables were not preset, sanitization station. Nothing extra to report. Our server was friendly, attentive, knowledgeable about the menu as well as the ingredients used. The music was a mixture of oldies with current hits, low enough to allow for comfortable conversation. I would dine here again.
Support your local hospitality; Paradiso does as evidenced on their social media platforms.
Paradiso Restaurant
2041 Pine Street, Burlington, L7R 2L8
905-639-1176
For more information on the Pre-Fixe menu options during this dining event that ends on October 25, 2020, please check the Taste of Burlington website for more details. https://tasteofburlington.ca/prix-fixe-program/.
Remember to sign up for the Taste of Burlington Passport to make menu selections from the app, paperless. The more you check-in from the app, the more chances you have of winning the weekly gift certificate giveaway and eligible for the grand prize of a $500 gift card to a restaurant of choice. This is useful for family gatherings now that the holidays are approaching.
Michele Bogle is a Burlington resident who writes for the Gazette on community issues. Ms Bogle has taken part in the Food Network for the second year in a row to audition for the ‘Great Chocolate Showdown’ 2020 and 2021. She made it to the second stage of auditions for ‘Wall of Chefs’ 2019 and finished top 1% of auditions last year for ‘The Great Canadian Baking Show’.
 By Staff
October 20th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The city administration along with the Legion has announced that the 2020 Remembrance Day ceremony is going virtual and will be live-streamed at burlingtonlegion.com, beginning at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11.
 The wreaths will be laid, Taps will be played – we shall remember them in total silence. Please do not go to the Burlington Cenotaph.
Those at the Cenotaph will be following COVID-19 safety protocol including physical distancing.
To view the live streaming, go to burlingtonlegion.com at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2020. The ceremony will also be available for viewing afterward.
The 35-minute ceremony will include a colour guard, two minutes of silence, music performed by some members of the Burlington Teen Tour Band and Flanders Fields.
The sunrise ceremony at the Naval Monument is also not open to the public and will not be live-streamed.
For more information about the virtual ceremony, please visit burlingtonlegion.com.
 The crowds seen in the past will be absent for 2020
 By Staff
October 16th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Guaranteed to be the biggest fundraiser of the year at the Burlington Food Bank. Can’t thank Tim Horton’s enough, was the way one of the volunteers put it.
The Tim Horton’s 2020 Smile Cookie Campaign was a HUGE success this year! Burlington Tim Horton’s Restaurant Owners collectively raised $69,249 for the Burlington Food Bank in just one week.
The store owners gathered together at Cameron Robins’ store on Plains Rd to present the cheque.
 The Smile Cookie sale raised $69,249 for the Food Bank. Every penny of each cookie sale went to the Food Bank. Cameron, thanked everyone adding that this was such a wonderful way to give back.
Everyone gets a cookie that the staff have decorated with the entire proceeds going directly to the food bank to feed families in our Burlington community.
This donation comes at an excellent time; we are seeing the usage of the Food Bank increasing. With these funds they are able to purchase healthy nutritious food and produce to help balance their client’s needs.
Tim Horton’s staff have put a Smile on the faces of thousands of people in Burlington.
 By Staff
October 14th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington’s favourite fundraiser is back… social distance style!
 Individually hand crafted bowls done by artizans across the province. Enjoy a special gourmet soup from a local restaurant. In an effort to support our local restaurants, we’re hosting this year’s Soup Bowl Fundraiser to go!
Bowl sales begin Thursday, October 15, 2020 and the event runs through the month of November. Stay tuned for exciting updates including restaurant announcements, supporting sponsors, bowl gallery preview, and more!
How it Works
Step One: Choose a Bowl
Browse our online gallery and select a handcrafted, one-of-a-kind, ceramic bowl. Bowls are $55 – AGB Members: watch your email for an exclusive discount code. Your purchase includes a voucher for a bowl of soup from one of our participating restaurants. Complete your purchase and keep your receipt handy – you’ll need it for the next step.
Step Two: Plan your Pick-Up
After your purchase, you’ll be notified of dates and times available for you to pick-up your bowl from the gallery. When you arrive, you’ll be given a Soup Bowl Swag Bag that includes your bowl & soup voucher.
Step Three: Enjoy your Soup
Contact your restaurant of choice during the month of November to book a time to redeem your soup voucher. Be sure to book your favourite restaurant as soon as possible; some limitations may apply.
 By Clair Ward
October 15th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The online gambling ecosystem in Canada is seen by many as the future of the broader sports betting and casino industry. This is in partly because regulators are softening their outlook on both land-based and online gambling alike, allowing more locals to get into this pastime without having to jump through hoops.
To reveal the true scope and significance of this sector, here is a look at some of the most surprising facts about it.
Overseas operators take the lion’s share of the market
The legislation surrounding online casinos in Canada is still somewhat complex, so while domestic players are able to legally enjoy access to any number of web-based gambling services, it is not currently possible for operators to set up shop on Canadian soil.
Because of this, the vast majority of cash generated by this industry goes to gambling sites that are based in other parts of the world where regulations are less restrictive.
In 2019 alone almost $400 million was generated by these offshore sites, and further growth is anticipated for 2020. An online casino in Canada can still be reputable and fully featured; it is simply difficult to support any local businesses when playing online.
The other issue with this is that the government does not generate any tax income from the industry, which would all change if it decided to embrace it outright and start issuing licenses for casino sites to operate domestically. Some provinces are taking the lead in pushing through changes that would free up the industry from state monopolies and restrictions, but it will still be a while before any shifts take effect.
 Young men are the most eager online gamblers
Research into the demographics which make up online gambling in Canada conducted by CasinoValley show that four out of five gamblers are male, with the under-35s being the most prolific players.
In particular it is those who are still in full time education, or only recently graduated, who are most likely to participate in this type of activity.
That is not to say that female players do not have their own trends and preferences; in fact more women make use of smartphone-powered gambling services than men, which is a globally unique statistic for this industry.
Slots lead the way in terms of raw popularity
There are all sorts of online casino services available, with everything from traditional table games like roulette to every conceivable variety of poker and beyond on offer. However, slots games are by far the biggest draw for web-based gambling sites, with almost three quarters of players pumping cash into virtualized versions of classic fruit machines.
 Once again there are gender differences in game preference, with bingo proving to be more of a hit with women than men. Like slots, this is one of the more accessible types of gambling, with a gentle learning curve that means newcomers can pick it up quickly.
That is not to say more skill-based, intricate games like poker are not able to bring in the punters. Indeed 59 per cent of online gambling site users from Canada have played a few hands of mainstream examples like Texas Hold ‘Em.
Jackpots can be huge
Life-changing amounts of money have been won by Canadian online casino players, with the most recent big win of $20 million coming on the MegaMoolah progressive slot back in 2019. This follows on from a similarly sizable win achieved on the same slot in Canada less than 12 months earlier.
So there you have it; the online gambling industry in Canada is going strong, and is only in need of a little more direct support and acceptance from political leaders to become even more of an asset, contributing to economic independence.
Clair Ward is a consultant in outreach marketing with a focus on the online gambling industry. She has watched this form of gambling since its inception and understands and comments frequently on the differences between the various markets.
By Staff
October 13th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
When the lock down was put in place Tammy Fox knew she had a problem – she just didn’t know how big a problem it was going to be.
Today – she knows.
 Tammy Fox, Executive Director Burlington Performing Arts Centre Tammy is the Executive Director of the Performing Arts Centre.
The two theatres in the building – one, the Main Theatre, holds 720 people; the other, the Community Studio Theatre, holds 165 people – have been empty for months.
The building needed some attention during the lock-down – while minimal, the costs were nevertheless real.
A very interesting production has been announced that will give young people who have a deep interest in theatre a chance to get some solid experience and mentoring.
Rebuilding the audience is going to take time. The immediate future is iffy at best. The province has limited the number of people who can attend events. “I can’t put much more than 50 people in the Main theatre – close to impossible to pull in the revenue needed to support the operations” said Fox.
“COVID social distancing cuts into what we can earn from the bar.”
On the upside, the Performing Arts Centre has a solid core of patrons who have stayed with us.
Our volunteers have been great – we had them in for a run-through on what it means to manage and direct people when they are entering the theatre and explaining the seating arrangements. We held three separate sessions – 90% of the volunteers have returned to usher people.
During the balance of October there will be:
 A fund raising concert that sold out – broadcast as a live stream of the performance featuring Tom Wilson LEGACY – A Tribute to Gord Downie featuring Tom Wilson is sold out.
The Livestream of the fundraising concert and special evening to celebrate the man, the music and his enduring legacy take place on October 15th and 16th.
BENEATH SPRINGHILL: The Maurice Ruddick Story takes place on October 17th and 18th – at 1:00 pm on both days.
This is the dramatic true tale of seven miners trapped beneath a small mining town and the racial tension that surfaced as a result.
 Elise LeGrow; an impressive chanteuse Elise LeGrow will perform on Sun Oct 25, 2020 at 4pm and at 7pm in the Community Studio.
Her voice and storytelling abilities are second to none. She has performed at the Performing Art Centre before to solid audiences.
Then there is the ALTdot Comedy Lounge on Friday Oct 30, 2020 at 7pm and again at 9pm
Featuring Sean Cullen, Jackie Pirico with host Ali Hassan! For 24 years, The ALTdot Comedy Lounge has been one of Toronto’s premiere comedy shows.
 Nancy Brewer, Chair Burlington Performing Arts Centre The Performing Arts Centre has a new Chair, Nancy Brewer, a Chartered Professional Accountant in Burlington. Nancy is actively involved in community service having served as Chair of Joseph Brant Hospital and the Halton Learning Foundation.
Fox has put the finishing touches on the budget for next year – it is going to be painful.
Much depends on how long the current audience limitations are in place – assuming that we don’t slide back into a second lock down – and the arrival of a vaccine that proves to halt the spread of the virus.
City Council was given a thorough report on what was involved in the Nelson Aggregate application for new licenses; one to quarry on land to the west of the current site and another to quarry on land to the south.
 The shaded area are where Nelson Aggregates want to expand. The information Council was given was more in the way of background – nothing was going to happen for a couple of years – other than the preparing and issung of a number of technical studies.
This part of the process was expected to cover several years.
What became clear during the meeting was that while the quarries were in Burlington proper, the city was certainly not going to have the last word – they would be lucky to have much to say at all.
The Regional government was going to spearhead the messaging while the JART – Joint Application Review Tribunal would do all the initial review of the document – which comprised of thousands of pages of technical data.
All that data and the summary of them would get presented to Burlington, the Region of Halton, the Niagara Escarpment Commission and the provincial Ministry that oversees the operation of mineral extraction operations, they would all be expected to weigh in on what it would all mean to the city.
The NEC and the Ministry are what count.
The document that held the most information for everyone at Council was a Process Time Line that sets out who is going to do what and when.
What was entirely overlooked at the Burlington Council meeting was the long term Nelson Aggregate intention to turn the quarried out properties to the city who could then turn them into a huge public park.
This council did not seem to want to take a long term look – the focus seemed to be the impact the application might have on the 2022 municipal election.
The Escarpment is seen as sacrosanct – no housing developments except for maybe something very very small in the three settlement communities of Lowville, Kilbride and Mt Nemo.
Golf courses are OK with the residents – the accepted community norm is that those people who can afford five and ten acre properties on which they can build relatively large homes are more than welcome. Gated driveway are acceptable architectural features. If you don’t fit into that demographic – then the Escarpment just isn’t for you.
 The existing quarry on the north side of Side Road # 2 is close to being mined out. Rehabilitation is currently already underway. When completed there will be a swimming area, paths and park area with acres of land to roam around on. That Burlington is going to grow immensely is a given – mostly housed in apartments or condominiums with not much in the way of parkland.
We are seeing exceptionally large crowds along the Beachway where parking becomes an expensive issue when you see the amount on the parking ticket.
The several Conservation areas are now regulating who can go into their parks and how long they can stay.
While we are not out of public park space we are now rationing the space we have and charging fees for entrance.
 The property on the south side of Side Road # 2 would be turned into a lake with a large shallow area that will be very safe for young children. The Jefferson Salamander habitat will be well to the east of this lake. Another large park in the Escarpment area makes sense and certainly deserves consideration.
Not by this Council and certainly not during that period of time when re-election is the focus.
The last time Nelson Aggregates made an application for new licensees they were turned down because the Jefferson Salamander habitat was threatened. Nelson Aggregates has made sure that issue is covered in this latest application.
To the surprise of some there is a citizen organization with a reported 400 members supporting the long term development of turning the quarries into public park space.
There is also a well organized citizens group opposed to the quarry expansion,
Council has to determine what they want to do. Will they choose to say they will protect the Escarpment. From what? Newcomers having a place to play?
Part 1 of a three part series on the Nelson Aggregate issue.
A very large development that is a short drive from the Escarpment – no park land for those people.
 By Staff
October 13th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Performing Arts Centre has created a unique opportunity for local youth to participate in a professional theatre production of ‘Into the Woods: In Concert’ this November and December!
 The production was the Dora Mavor Moore Award winner for Best Production of a Musical in 2010. As part of the Burlington Performing Arts Centre’s upcoming presentation of Into the Woods: In Concert, there will be a three-week Youth Mentorship Program.
Up to 22 local youth will become a part of the ensemble, participating on stage or behind the scenes, experiencing the rehearsal process with the professional cast, and performing in a one-of-a-kind production of a Broadway classic, produced by one of Canada’s leading independent professional theatre companies.
Applications must be sent in no later than Friday October 23rd.
Physical distancing and all proper COVID-19 safety measures will be followed during the program, and masks will be required for all participants.
“Participating in this kind of production is a great opportunity for young performers, designers and fans of theatre, in general,” said Burlington Performing Arts Centre Executive Director Tammy Fox.
The program: Into the Woods: In Concert was created by the Talk is Free Theatre company based in Barrie Ontario. The opportunity to take part in this production is every theatre kid’s dream, and a unique opportunity to learn from industry professionals, said Fox.”
Applicants must be between the ages of 12 and 20, must commit to approximately 20 hours of rehearsal at The Burlington Performing Arts Centre, between November 16 and December 6, and must be open to the creative process and respectful to their environment.
An introductory workshop will be provided by Leslie Gray of Burlington’s own Koogle Theatre.
Participants can participate in acting, singing, design, directing, stage management and more, based on their interests.
Those seeking a performance role will get to act in this iconic musical alongside some of Canada’s leading musical theatre actors, whose productions credits span from Mirvish Productions, Shaw Festival and Stratford Festival.
 Into the Woods In Concert performer. Photo by Alex Medvick. Every participant will also receive one-on-one mentorship from a member of the professional cast and/or creative team. These mentorship sessions consist of two 30-minute meetings which will be scheduled during the rehearsal and performance timeframe.
This unique opportunity to be part of the show costs $200, which includes two complimentary tickets to the production. Interested youth must apply by Friday, October 23 on the BPAC website. (https://burlingtonpac.ca/youth-mentorship-program/)
About Into the Woods: In Concert
Talk is Free Theatre presents Into the Woods: In Concert at the BPAC’s Main Theatre for 10 shows from November 27 to December 6.
Into the Woods is a musical journey that intertwines the several beloved Brothers Grimm characters and explores the consequences of their individual’ wishes and wants. Characters include Little Red Riding Hood, Jack (and the Beanstalk), Rapunzel, and Cinderella to name a few. At the centre of the story is a childless baker and his wife who will do anything to have a family, but they encounter a powerful witch who has placed a curse on them. Throughout this magical journey, characters from different fables encounter each other as they fight for what they believe is their happily ever after. The original Broadway production earned three Tony Awards in 1988.
 The stage lights are back on – the Performing Arts Centre is once again operational. About Talk is Free Theatre
Talk is Free Theatre was founded in 2003 in Barrie, ON by Artistic Producer Arkady Spivak and colleagues, and has since produced close to 100 works. TIFT’s recent production The Curious Voyage is an internationally recognized first-of-its- kind immersive experience that physically transported participants to London, England as part of an inescapable narrative. Their co-production of Sondheim’s Assassins with Birdland Theatre as a sold-out success, a Dora Mavor Moore Award winner for Best Production of a Musical in 2010 and has been named on the 10 Best Toronto Theatre Shows of the Decade by NOW.
Tickets can be purchased online or by telephone:
905-681-6000 | burlingtonpac.ca/into-the-woods
Tickets: Regular $49 / Members $44
 The things for which we are thankful.
This is a day to pause and think about what we are thankful for during these stressful times.
These trees caught our eye – we found it a good place to start thinking about all there is to be thankful for.
By Michele Bogle
October 11, 2020
BURLINGTON, ONTARIO
West Plains Bistro is located in Aldershot. It has a warm comfy feel, almost cozy at the west end of Burlington: this little European-styled bistro is conveniently accessed off busy Plains Road. There was plenty of outdoor seating but a little noisy, so we chose to eat inside. Tripadvisor.ca rated it at #9 out of more than 300 Burlington restaurants.
 West Plains Bistro – rated #9 in Burlington on Tripadviser What I observed upon entering: at the door was the restaurant’s ‘Food & Safety Inspection Sheet’ prominently placed for patrons to read before entering. When entering, we were greeted by mask-covered staff. There were only booths as a choice for seating. The additional tables were eliminated for appropriate spacing. Before being seated the server informed us that both doors at either end were open for improved air circulation. The tables were not pre-set. The restaurant looked clean.
‘Soup of the Day’ was red pepper with goat cheese and bacon. However this combination sounds, I can assure you that the flavours make you stop and redirect your conversation. This was a taste experience that made this cook want to attempt to recreate this soup at home. I’d return just for the soup.
 Smoked Salmon Crepe Next, we chose the ‘Smoked Salmon Crepe’ as our entree. At first glance you might think that you’ve been transported into an expensive New York restaurant featured in a food magazine. The plating was beautiful and the quantity of food sitting on the plate, minimalistic. Inside this tidy package I found a fully-loaded crepe of smoked salmon, red onion and goat cheese. The dill sauce was a perfect complement to the dish.
 Pumpkin Pecan Torte Appetite now completely satisfied, it was time for dessert. Dessert was a choice from eight delectable creations. A list of which can be found on their website https://westplainsbistro.square.site/gallery-3. It was very difficult to choose. We went with the Pumpkin Pecan Torte, which in my opinion was more of a tart, than torte, and the Peach and Apple Crumble. The crumble was mushy and there was little evidence of peach present in my dessert. I wouldn’t recommend this particular item on the menu. As a baker, my specific area of strength is in flavour profiles. After tasting the Pumpkin Pecan Torte, I would give the balance of spices within this torte, three thumbs up.
The overall dining experience was good. At $20 per person during the Taste of Burlington Pre-Fixe Dining Event, I received more than my money’s worth of delicious food.
Make sure to sign up for your Taste of Burlington Passport App found in the link below, if you haven’t already; to make ordering and your check-in process safer and easier.
https://tasteofburlington.ca/prix-fixe-program/
As a reminder this event runs only from October 5-25. Reservation required at most locations. Don’t miss out on a great opportunity to try new restaurants and or to visit some of your favourites while supporting hospitality in Burlington, Ontario.
West Plains Bistro
133 Plains Road, East
Burlington, ON L7T 2C4
905-333-9449
info@westplainsbistro.com
https://www.westplainsbistro.com
Remember, every time you participate in this event using the Taste of Burlington Passport, you increase your chances of winning the weekly gift card giveaway, or the $500 gift card to a participating restaurant of choice.
Michele Bogle is a Burlington resident who writes for the Gazette on community issues. Ms Bogle has taken part in the Food Network for the second year in a row to audition for the ‘Great Chocolate Showdown’ 2020 and 2021. She made it to the second stage of auditions for ‘Wall of Chefs’ 2019 and finished top 1% of auditions last year for ‘The Great Canadian Baking Show’.
By Staff
October 10th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
What’s open; what’s not open – Thanksgiving Holiday.
Animal Services
The Animal Shelter at 2424 Industrial St. remains closed to the public due to COVID-19.
To report an animal control-related emergency, call 905-335-3030 or visit www.burlington.ca/animal.
Burlington Transit Burlington Transit will operate a holiday schedule on Oct. 12. The downtown Transit Terminal, Specialized Dispatch and the administration office will also be closed on this day.
Schedules and specialized booking are available at burlingtontransit.ca. For real-time schedule information visit Google/Apple Maps or triplinx.ca.
City Hall Closed on Monday, Oct. 12.
The Service Burlington counter will re-open Oct. 13 and is available for the following in-person payments from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday to Friday:
– Parking permits and tickets
– Property taxes
– Freedom of Information requests
– Garbage tags
– Dog licenses
– Property information requests
– Recreation services
Service Burlington continues to offer marriage licenses and commissioning services by appointment. Please call Service Burlington at 905-335-7777 to schedule.
Cash payments are currently not accepted. Many service payments are also available online at burlington.ca/onlineservices.
Anyone entering City Hall must wear a mask or face covering unless exempted from by the Mandatory Mask Bylaw.
Residents are asked to bring and wear their own masks.
Building and Planning
Service counters for building and planning are currently closed and staff continue to process applications electronically.
For more information about building permits and business licences, visit burlington.ca/building.
For information about development applications, visit burlington.ca/developmentinfo
Halton Court Services – Provincial Offences Office Closed on Monday, Oct. 12.
Administration Counter Services, at 4085 Palladium Way, will re-open on Oct. 13 and are available from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday to Friday.
Telephone payments are available at 905-637-1274, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. Many online services are also available, please visit Halton Court or email burlingtoncourt@burlington.ca
Free parking is available downtown, on the street, in municipal lots and in the parking garage on weekends and holidays.
NOTE: The Waterfront parking lots (east and west) do not provide free parking on statutory holidays.
Parking exemptions are currently not required for overnight parking on City streets between 1 and 6 a.m., due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. burlington.ca/parking
Recreation Programs and Facilities Arenas will be closed on Oct. 12 and re-open on Oct. 13.
Angela Coughlan Pool will be open on Oct. 12. Pre-registration is required. For scheduled programming, visit burlington.ca/fall
Roads, Parks and Forestry Administrative office closed on Monday, Oct. 12.
Essential and reduced parks maintenance services will be provided.
rlingotn.ca
By Michele Bogle
October, 9, 2020
BURLINGTON, ONTARIO
 Located in the middle of Village Square; a quiet oasis – not a car to be heard Tucked away in the quaint little Village Square is a Persian Restaurant, ‘Rayhoon Eatery’. Whether you already love Persian fare or have never tried it before, the Pre-Fixe dining opportunity during the Taste of Burlington event is the perfect time to try this restaurant. They offer a 3-course lunch or dinner, $25 or $40 per person respectively.
Rayhoon offers a good selection on the Pre-Fixe menu with gluten free, vegan and vegetarian options. All of the dishes are ‘halal’. Every third Friday, they have belly dancing for your dining entertainment. Reservations are required for all dining. Please note that they are not open on Mondays with the exception of holiday Mondays.
The eatery was clean, the waitress was attentive, polite, knowledgeable, and the music was at a soothing level, allowing for conversation.
What I observed when entering; all employees were wearing masks; spaced an appropriate distance from one another; the tables were spaced 2 metres apart; and there was a sanitation station set up at the entrance. The bathroom was clean. Before ordering, we and patrons around us were asked for names and contact info. All of the utensils were wrapped. When leaving their tables for the restroom or for departing, the staff politely reminded patrons to put their masks back on. The Taste of Burlington’s Passport offers you additional comfort when digitally ordering your lunch or dinner.
 Bakhtiari Kabob For dinner, my daughter and I chose the Pistachio Crusted Salmon and Bakhtiari Kabob. To start I enjoyed a walnut, beet and arugula salad with goat cheese and a pomegranate dressing. The combination of flavours made me feel that even if I had nothing more to eat, I’d be happy.
The Persian-inspired butternut squash soup was aromatic and delicious.
 Baked Atlantic Salmon encrusted with pistachios Next I enjoyed Baked Atlantic Salmon encrusted with pistachios and a serving of saffron flavoured rice and their walnut, berry and goat cheese salad. The salmon was fresh-tasting and very moist. My daughter ordered the Bakhtiari Kabob, complete with instructions from our server as to how to properly prepare this dish before eating.
Packets of seasoning and butter were offered to add to the rice, then my daughter was instructed to cut the lemon-spiced chicken and the incredibly tender strips of beef tenderloin into bite-size pieces along with the grilled tomato; add to the saffron-infused
rice, and voila! The medley of flavours were exotic and delightful.
 Persian Spiced Sticky Toffee Pudding We finished off our enjoyable dining experience with a Persian Spiced Sticky Toffee Pudding, which lacked enough flavour on its own but was well complimented by the drizzle of caramel sauce.The Cardamom & White Chocolate Affogato, I could eat again and again; a scoop of homemade cardamom and white chocolate ice cream, topped with slivered almonds, then to be doused with a shot of hot espresso. Simply sublime.
I would have liked to have seen some signage reminding patrons and staff to wash hands; to wear their masks and signage for the direction of restrooms so that patrons aren’t wandering around others in search of them. There were a lot of verbal cues and a large visible sanitizing station in lieu of the signage. I am satisfied and feel comfortable about returning.
If considering Rayhoon Eatery during the Taste of Burlington Fall 2020 Dining Event, make sure to call or write ahead to make a reservation.
Rayhoon Eatery
420 Pearl Street Village Square, Burlington L7R 2N1 905-637-2500
info@rayhooneatery.com
https://www.rayhooneatery.com/
https://tasteofburlington.ca/restaurants/rayhoon-eatery/ Remember, every time you participate in this event using the Taste of Burlington Passport, you increase your chances of winning the weekly gift card giveaway, or the $500 gift card to a participating restaurant of choice.
Michele Bogle is a Burlington resident who writes for the Gazette on community issues. Ms Bogle has taken part in the Food Network for the second year in a row to audition for the ‘Great Chocolate Showdown’ 2020 and 2021. She made it to the second stage of auditions for ‘Wall of Chefs’ 2019 and finished top 1% of auditions last year for ‘The Great Canadian Baking Show’.
 By Staff
October 8th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
 The temporary art installation, “The Promenade of Pain,” has been extended through Friday, Oct. 16 in Spencer Smith Park.
Created by Jaime Black (Métis), the multidisciplinary artist who founded The REDress Project and is hosted by Burlington local, Amber Ruthart, First Nations, White Bear Clan, 60s scoop survivor and performance artist.
Located along the walkway beside the Waterfront Hotel and around the gazebo, this project focuses around the issue of missing or murdered Aboriginal women across Canada.
The dresses resemble red specters, floating from hangers in tree branches. Whether they flutter in the wind or drape eerily still, the dresses are not what haunts you but rather the absence of those who wore them.
The dresses represent the hundreds – perhaps thousands – of North American Indigenous women and girls who have been murdered or disappeared during the past four decades.
By Staff
October 7th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The people at the Burlington Food Bank were asked if they were selling chocolate bars door to door to support the Food Bank.
They are not doing this – “this has not been approved by the Food Bank so please don’t purchase these chocolates! We would never do something like this – especially during covid! Imagine”.
While Marie-Hélène Mongrain from La Crème de La Crème Creamery was volunteering and showing appreciation to our volunteers this morning – her store in Hamilton was broken into!! Steven was there and is looking after clean-up.
 Emma does the Picks for Creme de La Creme – her parents are strong supporters of the Food Bank In August, Emma’s Pick ( a fund raising idea for La Crème) was successful in raising $460, that’s 460 cones! They also donated $250 in groceries to the Burlington Food Bank. Today, Marie was volunteering (she and Steven are regular volunteers with us) and donated a box of chocolates for every one of the volunteers in appreciation for their dedication in serving the community.
Their Emma’s Pick is specifically designed to support local charities. La Creme always focuses on either feeding those in need, LGBTQ support or underprivileged youth. In just 3 seasons they have raised thousands of dollars in support of these initiatives.
Emma’s Pick of the Month sprang from their youngest daughter, when they started the company she was too young to work at the store so they involved her on the charity side, creating the different cones.
She chose S’mores for August for the Burlington Food Bank and it was obviously a BIG hit with the community in many ways.
 By Staff
October 7th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Book a Heritage Workshop at Ireland House Museum with your private group of 4-6 people, $30/person.
 All workshops take place in the historic house at the hearth and are available on Saturdays (beginning in November), Sundays (sold out in October) and Mondays. Workshops include all supplies and a guided tour of Ireland House Museum. Masks are mandatory. We offer a choice of one of three experiences:
• Heritage Fall Baking Workshop
• Heritage Food Preservation Workshop
• Heritage Soups & Stews Workshop
This is one way to get out of the house and enjoy something other than Netflix.
For the truly creative – you might order in a lunch, with a decent wine (it is a private lunch) and make a day of it.
Link to the booking page is HERE
 By Pepper Parr
October 6th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
You are going to have to pay to park downtown in December – it has been free for the past seven years.
The Burlington Downtown Business Association (BDBA) asked council to end the program – it is no longer delivering what it was delivering to the downtown merchants.
The past two years – the data collected, and it was extensive, indicated that the opportunity to park free during December was lost due to people who would take up the space for the day.
The abuse brought the program to an end.
 Councillor cautioned ending the program this year. Council’s biggest concern was how to spin this. Councilor Stolte who was the chair of the Standing Committee said she didn’t have a problem with ending the program but didn’t think this should be the time to do it.
People have had a lot taken away from them – they are going to think this is just one more thing. It might backfire on us.
The downtown merchants didn’t seem to care. They wanted the program to end. Their feeling was that if people have to pay there will be more churn; parking spaces will become available when a person has finished their shopping.
Right now – there are people who work downtown and leave their car on the street for the day in December because it is free.
Downtown merchants found that they were experiencing a 25% decrease in sales the past two years. From their perspective it was time to end the program.
It is the city that will have to end the program and Councilors felt that the blame would rest on them.
Councillor Galbraith said that messaging is important – this could be spun the wrong way.
 Councillor Kearns wanted everyone to be vert careful with the way they explained the ending of the program. Councillor Kearns. Ward 2 where most of that downtown business is located was pained when she heard Councillor Bentivegna talk in terms of something being taken away. “Think in terms”, she said “about what we are giving back.”
“Be aware of your language.”
The concern for the Councillors was that they were going to end up with cow paddies on the soles of their shoes.
Council was asked to discontinue December free parking in all downtown parking facilities effective December 1st, 2020.
Mayor Meed Ward loved the idea when it was put in place. She had little to say other than that parking should be seamless – you shouldn’t have to drive around the block a couple of times to find a place.
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