Performing Arts Centre closes Main Theatre - Community Theatre will remain open.

News 100 redBy Staff

March 13th, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

After first deciding to keep the doors open the Burlington Performing Arts Centre will be following the guidelines recommended by our provincial, municipal, and cultural partners to suspend all Main Theatre events and regular box office hours of operation until Monday, April 6th.

Some new light being brought to the Performing Arts csntre with the appointment of Brian McCuerdy as the new Executive Director.

Main Theater closed – Community Theater will be open.

Ontario’s chief medical officer of health is recommending the immediate suspension of all large events and public gatherings of over 250 people due to COVID-19. The Canadian Arts Presenting Association (CAPACOA) is encouraging venues to temporarily suspend ‘final ticket sale’ policies and asking patrons who may be feeling ill to stay home. Our partners at the City of Burlington have elected to close facilities and cancel services for a 3-week period.

In an effort to contain the spread of the virus, BPAC will be suspending all events in the Main Theatre for the remainder of our 19/20 Presents season, and all rental events in the Main Theatre, as well as regular box office operations, until Monday, April 6th. The box office will continue to operate through phone and email communication.

The following upcoming events have been cancelled:
• Bay City Rollers – TUE MAR 17
• May The Force Be With You – THU APR 2
• The Dreamboats – FRI APR 3
• Burlington Teen Tour Band – SUN APR 5
• Cirque Eloize: Hotel – FRI APR 10 & SAT APR 11

Tickets purchased online for these events will receive automatic refunds online. Tickets purchased by visiting the BPAC Box Office in person or over the phone will be refunded by Box Office staff.

Performances in our 160-seat Community Studio Theatre will go ahead as scheduled as we continue to assess the situation on a daily basis. The Box Office and Lobby will be open 1-hour prior to the following events:
• Old Man Flanagan’s Ghost – TUE MAR 17, 7:30pm
• Kevin Fox: Songs for Cello & Voice – SAT MAR 21, 7:30pm
• Elise LeGrow – SUN MAR 22, 7pm

If you have recently traveled or if you feel any symptoms of a cold or flu, we ask that you do not attend. Please stay at home and contact the Box Office for a full refund.

The safety and comfort of our patrons, volunteers, artists, and staff are of utmost importance. We are making sure that our staff and volunteers are well aware of hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette, we are installing hand sanitizing stations at our entrances, and focusing on keeping our venue clean and sanitary. Even so, we assure all patrons that nobody will be expected to attend these events if you are not comfortable to do so, and a full refund will be issued to you.

Box Office Information

Phone: 905.681.6000
The Burlington Performing Arts Centre
440 Locust Street,
Burlington, ON, L7S 1T7

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Conservation Halton closes almost all sites; administration offices closed to the public

News 100 redBy Staff

March 13th, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Conservation Halton has made the difficult but necessary decision to close a number of their park operations.

Conservation Halton Administration’s Office will be closed to the public but will continue to operate through phone and email communications. We will also continue to receive deliveries and accept well water samples.

Mountsberg will be closed and Maple Town, as a result, will also be closed for the remainder of the season.

Crawford lake with wooden trail

The walkway will be closed at Crawford lake.

Crawford Lake will be open, with trail access, but the Longhouse Village will be closed for the immediate future and Sweet Water Season will be closed for the remainder of the season.

Mt Nemo entrance

You will be able to walk the trail

Rattlesnake Point, Hilton Falls, Mount Nemo and Robert Edmondson will remain open, with trail access, but facilities, such as visitor centres, indoor washrooms, gift shops and food services, will be closed for the immediate future, so visitors are encouraged to plan ahead.

Glen Eden will be closed for the remainder of the season.

“We understand the importance of access to nature for community health and wellness, so we have worked to keep as many of the trails as possible open for public access,” said Hassaan Basit, Chief Administrative Officer. “With so many of our industry partners closing to reduce the spread of COVID-19, we feel it is our responsibility to support these efforts.”

“Conservation Halton will look to reassess park operations on April 6.”

You can find more information and updates on park closures at conservationhalton.ca

 

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Tap a Maple Tree event cancelled.

eventspink 100x100By Staff

March 13th, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Conservation Halton announced this morning that the Tap a Tree event that was scheduled for today, March 13, at the Mountsberg Conservation Area has been cancelled.

Crawford maple_syrup___Super_Portrait

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Contemporary Dance company is looking for four choreographers

artsblue 100x100By Staff

March 13th, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Aeris Körper Contemporary Dance company is looking for four choreographers to participate in their spring edition of ‘PROSPECTS: an evening of dance and discussion.

Dance 1The theme for the night is Social Justice with dance and movement performers focusing on equality, privilege, society and human rights.

Applications are being accepted for two works from Burlington-based artists and an additional two from artists outside of the city. Artists of colour, those living with disabilities, new Canadians, and new generation artists 18 to 30 years of age are encouraged to apply.

As a works-in-progress platform, ‘PROSPECTIVES’ provides artists, with a variety of performance experience, an opportunity to refine their 15-minute productions and receive post-performance input from the audience.

Performances can be inside or outside with artists being encouraged to create unique seating arrangements for audience members.

Applications due by April 9, 2020 will be judged by a jury composed of choreographers who previously performed at ‘PROSPECTS’ events. Applicants requiring help completing their submissions can contact Mikaela Demers at producer@aeriskorper.com or 647-876-7159.

dance logoSuccessful choreographers will present their pieces the evening of Saturday June 20, 2020 at The Burlington Student Theatre and receive an honorarium.

Aeris Kőrper, a contemporary-based dance company, produces live performances, hosts community platforms, and leads accessible movement workshops in Burlington, Hamilton, and across the Greater Toronto Area.

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City announces recreation facilities and program registration refunds policy during COVID19

News 100 redBy Staff

March 12th, 2029

BURLINGTON, ON

With the COVID-19 situation, the City of Burlington will be offering full refunds for Recreation facilities and program registrations (including March Break programs) without any administration charge.

Councillor Sharman has held two public sessions with Senior's as part of his effort to understand their needs and develop policy that Council can put in place to serve this vital community. At most of the sessions Sharman holds his Dad is often in the audience.

Some planned events might be cancelled.

For facility rentals: organizations and residents with upcoming rentals may cancel or rebook at a future date (pending availability) with no penalty. Please contact rentals@burlington.ca.

For registrations, including March Break programs: to withdraw from an upcoming course without penalty, or to withdraw from a course in progress to receive a prorated refund, please email liveandplay@burlington.ca or visit us during customer service hours.

If you have more questions about cancellations, please reach us at rentals@burlington.ca or liveandplay@burlington.ca or 905-335-7738.

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Schools to be closed for two weeks after Spring break - Performing Arts Centre to remain open.

News 100 redBy Staff

March 12th, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Minister of Education has issued a Ministerial Order to close all publicly funded schools in Ontario for two weeks following March break, in response to the emergence in Ontario of COVID-19.

This order was approved by the Lieutenant Governor in Council.

This means that Ontario schools have been ordered to remain closed from March 14 through to April 5, 2020.

classroom empty

Classroom to remain empty for two weeks after Spring Break

The Cineplex movie theatre chain and the Burlington Performing Arts Centre have said they will continue to operate.

The National Hockey League has shut down for the balance of the season.

There are mixed message here which is the last thing we need.

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Shakespeare at the Rock on the move - Dundurn Castle is their new home.

News 100 blueBy Pepper Parr

March 5th, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

In the summer the Tottering Biped Theatre (TBT) creates contemporary, highly physical interpretations of Shakespeare. Since 2016, TBT has presented original takes on Shakespeare at the beautiful Rock Gardens of the Royal Botanical Gardens.

Shakespeare at Rock 1

The cool of a summer evening at the RBG Rock Garden watching a Shakespeare production.

The team descends on the Gardens each August to present the contemporary issues they care about with flair to the words of the immortal Bard, marrying the traditional with the issues of today to inspire reflection, new perspectives, and change.

Founded in 2009 as a social justice inspired Theatre Company, they devise contemporary pieces through a workshop process spanning several years to create highly physical works of artistic excellence during the Fall/Winter.

They define their mandate as promoting conscious evolution through Theatre, emphasizing themes of social justice; their works have addressed poverty, Israeli-Palestinian relations, same sex marriage, violence against women, and mental health.

Unfortunately, the RBG has decided not to present the TBT work again after four years of collaboration and despite having the largest audience yet in 2019, so TBT found  a new home it will be Shakespeare at the Castle – Dundurn Castle in Hamilton, Ontario.

“There are some things about this change that are incredibly exciting”, said Trevor Copp, Director of TBT. “This shift will radically improve our accessibility. We have always wanted to offer ‘pay what you can’ tickets, but the RBG dictated ticket prices, making this impossible.

Dundurn Castle

Dundurn Castle will be the new home for the Shakespeare program – more space is one of the advantages.

With Shakespeare at the Castle, we will finally be able to make all tickets ‘pay what you can’ so that more people can get in and get their Shakespeare on!

“We will also now be much closer to downtown Hamilton at a location that is much more accessible by public transportation, again allowing more people to enjoy our shows and receive the benefits of the arts.

“We will also now have more artistic control over the work and be able to fully embrace our own Hamilton aesthetic while pursuing our goal of getting living wages into the hands of emerging professional artists in our area.”

Merchant - Trevor - thought

Trevor Copp watching a rehearsal.

Trevor Copp has put a brave face on a terribly disappointing decision on the part of RBG. They are going to need some help to make this work.

For those who love Shakespeare and delight in the spin that TBT gives some of the memorable productions; you will see them again – this time with a Hamilton-centric spin, no doubt.

Copps set out the situation is crystal clear language: What We Need & What You Get.

“If we can raise the money to pay our artists this year, we can save the money we raise in ticket sales and put that towards next year’s budget. So, if we can get this money together one time, we will be able to sustainably carry on this project in subsequent seasons.”

“You can help make the transformation possible – Contribute here!

“Our goal is to make this a legacy series for Hamilton and the surrounding region, and this is the make or break year that will decide if that happens.

Merchant - yellow mask

Rehearsals for the Merchant of Venice

“No amount is too small. Please consider contributing to this fantastic project!

Merchant - Antonio

Michael Harrigan in Merchant of Venice – rehearsal

This isn’t just about money. TBT’s take on Mid-summer Night’s Dream was something you will never see again.

Their production of Romeo and Juliet was different yet superb. They did Macbeth and Twelfth Night as well. Nothing shabby about any of them. This was theatre worth watching.

Keep an eye on how they are doing financially – and get on the band wagon.

 

Got Your Back $10-$99):
A social media shout out for the love! You logged in, filled it all out, and did what you could! It makes such a difference to us!

Patron Sponsor ($100-$499):
Recognition by name on our website and in our Shakespeare at the Castle programs.
Bronze Sponsor ($500-$999):
Above benefits + A poster signed by the cast and a full cast/crew “Thank You” photo
Silver Sponsor ($1K -$2.4K):
Above benefits + Pair of tickets for our dress rehearsal and Q&A talkback and photo op with the cast and director of Shakespeare at the Castle.
Gold Sponsor ($2.5K-$4.9K):
All above benefits +
– If you want to be the slick silent partner type, you get a coffee with one of our cast members before the show to learn about their experience and ask any questions you want!
OR

– If you want to shout it out, a 3-foot sign with your name or company name/logo will be displayed at the Dundurn Castle performances throughout the run + a quarter-page ad or your personal message/dedication in our program.
Platinum Sponsor ($5K-$9.9K):

How do you tell these actors that you want them to be on the stage next summer and for years after? Do something now.Contribute

 

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Income tax clinics for those who need help completing their tax return

News 100 redBy Staff

March 3, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Taxes is one of those inevitables.

Tax clinic graphicEven if you don’t owe any money to the government – you have to file a tax return in order to get the benefits that are available to low income people.

The tax forms do not get any easier.

There is help available.

Burlington MP Karina Gould, who is also the Minister of International Development, has arranged for tax experts to meet with anyone who needs help with completing and filing their income tax return.

Tax clinic locations

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Spring? Might be - Leslie Bullock saw flowers in her garden

News 100 greenBy Staff

March 2, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Signs of spring in our garden announced Leslie Bullock earlier today.

She wouldn’t stretch the truth.

Could it be?

Maybe no more drifting snow?

Spring flowers Bullock

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Bfast sets a date for its sixth annual meeting - it will be a Hallelujah event

News 100 blueBy Pepper Parr

March 2, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The tone of things related to transit has certainly changed in Burlington.

bfast-logo-w-type-rgb-400x133Bfast, Burlington’s for Accessible, Sustainable Transit,  an organization that struggled for years to get something, anything, in the way of traction at city hall on transit.

Elections are amazing things; Burlington now has a transit friendly council and a Director of Transit who has turned that organization into one that actually wants to see more buses on the streets.

While the event is several months away Bfast has announced the sixth annual Forum on Saturday, May 9, 2020, from 9:15-11:45am at the Burlington Seniors’ Centre.

It should be a celebration of what has been achieved in a short period of time and then take a hard look at the direction the city will go in.

Bfast 2018 forum

A typical Bfast meeting.

Electric is front and centre in the minds of Bfast and city council. The issue is when and where is the money going to come from. Electric buses are expensive and the critical charging stations come in at a Million dollars each – and just one isn’t going to cut it.

Council recently held a workshop on transit and learned about what the future of electric is going to look like. Exciting times ahead for sure.

Doug Brown, Chair, BFAST Steering Committee might well levitate when he calls the meeting to order. Note the date: May 9th.

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First annual InMemoriam Day to take place March 26th.

eventsblue 100x100By Staff

March 2, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

It’s a different approach to creating a sense of community – and it could work.

InMemoriam Ceremonies are usually held by churches; given the number of people who don’t attend church regularly, this might serve a purpose.

candle

Mayor Marianne Meed Ward announced today that the city now has a “ population of almost 200,000 people, Burlington loses over 1200 of our residents each year. Each person plays a part in our city’s well-being and their loss impacts many others.

Burlington’s Annual “In Memoriam” Ceremony was created to help recognize members of the community who have passed away in the previous year. All residents who have lost a family member, friend, or loved one are invited to gather in Civic Square along with Mayor Meed Ward to reflect together, as a community, on those we lost.

Mayor Meed Ward will say a few words of support for those in attendance. The flags at City Hall will be lowered on this day in their honour.

Going forward, the annual In Memoriam Ceremony will continue to be held on the last Thursday of March.

The media release from the Mayor’s office didn’t provide much more in the way of detail.  Do people just show up or does one register somewhere?  Follow up at:

www.burlington.ca/annual-in-memoriam-ceremony

Burlington’s 1st Annual In Memoriam Ceremony
Civic Square, 12-12:30pm on March 26th, 2020

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It is going to be chilly for the Marathon on Sunday - route, transit changes + everything else you need to know about the event

sportsgold 100x100By Staff

February 27th, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Starts in front of City Hall on Brant Street at 10:05 am and travels

Chilly runners 2

Waiting at the finish line.

north to Baldwin,

west on Baldwin,

south on Hurd,

east on Blenheim,

south on Locust,

east on Elgin,

south on Brant,

They come by the thousands.

They come by the thousands; numbered bibs show the count.

west on Lakeshore,

turnaround at Maple,

east on Lakeshore to Burloak,

north on Burloak,

turnaround at Spruce,

west on Lakeshore,

North on Brant to Finish.

Coolsaet crossing the Half Chilly Marathon December 2014

Crossing the finish line.

Bus route detours in effect

Burlington Transit  Routes 2, 3, 4, and 10

HSR 11 downtown 

Oakville 14A along Burloak Drive

xxx

Road Closures

6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

  • Brant Street from Maria Street to Elgin Street
  • Ontario Street from Brant Street to Locust Street, and James Street from John Street to Brant Street.

9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

  • Lakeshore Road from Brant Street to Maple Avenue.

9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

  • Brant Street, Lakeshore Road to Elgin Street – access to Bunton’s Wharf via Locust Street.

9:45 a.m. to 2 p.m.

  • Lakeshore Road from Brant Street to Burloak Drive. Burloak Drive from Lakeshore Road to Spruce Avenue for turnaround – access to Old Lakeshore Road from the west maintained with delays.

9:55 to 10:45 a.m.

  • The streets along the route west of Brant Street will experience intermittent road closures.

Resident Access
Residents on Lakeshore Road or on side streets impacted by the road closure have the following options:

  • Residents on the north side of Lakeshore Road are able to use the westbound lane, but expect delays.
  • Residents on the south side of Lakeshore Road will have restricted access and are encouraged to make alternate arrangements.
  • If your residence is within the road closure and you have to access your vehicle during the race, please park on side streets north of Lakeshore Road.
  • In case of an emergency, call 9-1-1.

Supervision
Police will be at major intersections and traffic islands. Event marshals will be available at minor intersections and major multi-resident driveways to inform
drivers of event details and road closures. Race notices were delivered to all residents, religious centres and businesses along the race route.

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Bullying - explaining it to younger children

eventspink 100x100By Staff

February 26th, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Bullying in the school yard and the hallways of an elementary school has an impact that is life defining for some children.

How do parents handle the problem? What is the approach that will put a stop to the behaviour? What if your child is the bully?

Bunny - BullyLana Button, an award-winning creator of delightful stories to help young people learn, will be at The Different Drummer to introduce her new picture book, the playful, poignant and pointed story of a troubled student who overcomes her aggressions with the help of her concerned classmates.

Lana will present What If Bunny’s Not a Bully? with crafts, treats, and her inimitable storytelling in a fun-filled event this Sunday, March 1 at 11am.

Admission is free. Everyone is welcome. Please join us!

What If Bunny’s Not a Bully?
Sunday March 1, 11am
A Different Drummer Books
513 Locust Street Burlington
www.differentdrummerbooks.ca

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A small number of families took part in the 30-60 Winter Challenge - enough to build upon.

eventsred 100x100By Pepper Parr

February 24th 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The weather certainly co-operated.

30-60 challenge

There was some really good snow which helped make the December, January and February, 30/60 Winter Play Challenge the success the city believes it was

Residents were challenged to participate in the 30/60 Winter Play Challenge where individuals, families or groups had to complete 30 activities in 60 days. The team that completed the most activities and had the most points won a grand prize.

The challenge encouraged the community to get outside and play.

Winter fun 1

That is an impressive snow fort – word on who the family is or what part of the city they are located in. Kudos to them for participating.

There were 101 activities that teams could complete. Activities included things like building a snowman, hiking, making an indoor fort and making a meal together. One team completed all 101 activities. In total 34, teams of 2-6 members participated.

One of the activities was “write City Hall”. One family took them up on it.

“Firstly, we would love to thank you for the opportunity to enjoy such a fun game. We are truly blessed to live in such a great city.”

“I love the variety of things that I’ve done during this challenge that never would have occurred to me to do! I also really love that it kept me thinking “what can I do today” every day which really helps to stay active in the winter months.”

Winter fun 2

That looks like a conga line – before the heavy snow hit the ground.

“You have also inspired us to explore further! We got a map of Burlington which shares all the parks and our goal for 2020 is to visit and explore each one at least once!”

Terry Milewski, Supervisor of Marketing and Sponsorship said: “This was our first year running this program in the winter and we are overwhelmed with the success of it. We even had to add more activities because the participants loved it so much, they breezed through all 30 original activities. We’re so happy people found this such a worthwhile and fun event. We are looking forward to starting up another challenge this summer.”

Overwhelmed with just 34 teams is a bit of a stretch but it is a good start and certainly worth building upon.

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Community Development Halton taking a closer look at Human Rights for those in the not for profit sector.

eventsorange 100x100By Staff

February 20th, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Community Development Halton is holding an introductory workshop to basic human rights principles as it relates to volunteers in the Nonprofit Voluntary Sector.

CDH right collageKey learnings:

1) Introduction to basic human rights principles
2) Human rights as it relates to volunteers in the workplace
3) Harassment/ Sexual Harassment – avoiding the pitfalls
4) Duty to Accommodation and Duty to Investigate

CDH Wayne PWade Poziomka, Partner at Ross & McBride LLP is a Partner at Ross & McBride LLP, representing both employees and employers in human rights matters. Wade currently sits as one of three Applicant-side representatives to the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario’s Practice Advisory Committee, is the Vice-Chair of ARCH Disability Centre’s Board of Directors and is the Past Chair of the Ontario Bar Association’s Constitutional, Civil Liberties and Human Rights Section Executive.

Wade’s law degrees are from the University of Toronto (J.D.) and Cornell University Law School (LL.M.). Wade speaks regularly at major conferences on human rights and has been recognized for his commitment to human rights, having been recognized by Best Lawyers Canada in 2020 for Employment and Labour Law and been awarded the Top 40 Under 40 Achievement Award.
Registration: cdhalton.ca/events
Fee: $75 Community Associate (CDH member)
$95 Non Community Associate (non-member)
Contact for more information: 1-855-395-8807 or Rose Marie at office@cdhalton.ca
Tuesday
March 24, 2020
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Check-in starts at 8:30 am
Community Development Halton 3350 South Service Road
Burlington, ON

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What Burlington offers that our New York neighbours do not

News 100 greenBy Thomas Blake

February 20th, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Burlington is a fabulous city to spend time in, as any who lives there will know. Found in the Canadian province of Ontario, it is a vibrant place with much to recommend it. What those who are not familiar with this Canadian city might not know, however, is just how close it is to New York City in North America! Only a few hundred miles sit between these two cities and they both have a proud heritage to speak of. Rather than heading to NYC like everyone else does, for your next trip away why not give Burlington a try instead?

The day before the Sound of Music kick off - possible to longe about the edge of the Lake.

Relaxing at the edge of the lake – Burlington – an easy going life style.

The great thing about this Canadian destination is that it as easy to get to as NYC but has a number of unique features that its American neighbour does not. This means you will get a totally different experience to bring home and something much more interesting than another Empire State Building photo to show friends! But what specific features make Burlington stand out when compared to its neighbours in New York?

Opportunity to play fun casino games online

One major difference is how playing casino games online is treated between the two. The state gambling laws in New York are complex to say the least, despite recent changes to federal law around sports betting and online gambling in the US. It is fair to say that NY laws fall on the restrictive side in general and New York as a state has not yet legalized online gambling officially within its borders. Burlington, on the other hand, benefits from a more relaxed approach to online casino play, which makes the city more attractive for many to visit.

As long as you use an online casino that is not registered within Canadian borders, you will be free to play slots, roulette, poker or any other online game, at your leisure. Canadian Casino sites like Casinos.co are the ideal place to find the best online operator to try out when in Burlington.

More relaxed way of life

There is no doubt that New York is a frantic place, with around 8 million citizens squeezed into its borders. This can make it an overwhelming place for many to visit, with crowds of people rushing about everywhere and plenty of noise. Burlington is not like this at all and benefits from a much more relaxed feel.

Sound of music - from stage

Sound of Music – one of the largest free concerts in the country.

With around 200,000 residents, it has a more laid-back atmosphere and feels much calmer to spend time in. This is perfect for any holiday as you can fully unwind without the frantic pace of life that a busier place like New York maintains. You will also find the locals friendlier in Burlington – while New Yorkers are usually too busy to say hello, you will find Burlington residents only too happy to chat.

Low crime rates

While New York has seen a drop in crime rates relative to its population in recent years, many fear the figure is starting to climb once more. This could make finding a safer alternative to NYC a good choice. Burlington is known for having historically low crime rates and this has actually seen it voted as one of the best cities to live in, across Canada, in the past. As noted above, this is a friendly city that offers visitors a safe environment. This is certainly true when you compare it against New York and the rising crime rate there.

Stunning outdoor action

Escarpment in the summer - green green

Mt Nemo and access to the Bruce Trail are all parts of Burlington

Although New York City has Central Park, it simply cannot compare with Burlington in terms of outdoor trails, spaces or activities. The wide-open appeal of Burlington and its surrounding landscape gives it a unique edge over its American cousin. The Niagara Escarpment is the main draw here and is classed as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve site.

You can only access the wonderful Bruce Trail, which stretches for almost 900 kilometres through awesome scenery, in Burlington. Burlington also has the Mount Nemo Conservation Area, which New York does not – this is a great pace to hike or try out rock climbing. If you add in the world-famous Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington, it is easy to see what it has to offer to stand out as different.

Burlington has so much to offer

Chow down time - this was finger 'lickin' food.

Chow down time – this was finger ‘lickin’ food at the Rib Fest

When you also consider the many cultural events that are unique to Burlington, such as the Ribfest or Burlington’s Sound of Music festival, then it gets even clearer why more people are travelling there. While NYC does have its own charm, a trip to this Canadian city offers an experience that you simply cannot get in New York.

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Chilly Half Marathon March 1st - Road Closures!

eventsred 100x100By Staff

February 19, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The true believer running crowd will be out on the roads March 1st for the Chilly Half Marathon, March 1, 2020 The event is supporting cancer care at Joseph Brant Hospital.

Coolsaet crossing the Half Chilly Marathon December 2014

 

Road Closures
6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Brant Street from Maria Street to Elgin Street
• Ontario Street from Brant Street to Locust Street
• James Street from John Street to Brant Street

9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

• Lakeshore Road from Brant Street to Maple Avenue

9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Brant Street, Lakeshore Road to Elgin Street (access to Bunton’s Wharf via Locust Street)

9:45 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Lakeshore Road from Brant Street to Burloak Drive
• Burloak Drive from Lakeshore Road to Spruce Avenue for turnaround (Access to Old Lakeshore Road from the west maintained with delays)

9:55 to 10:45 a.m.

• The streets along the route west of Brant Street will experience intermittent road closures

Resident Access Residents on Lakeshore Road or on side streets impacted by the road closure have the following options:

• Residents on the north side of Lakeshore Road are able to use the westbound lane, but expect delays

• Residents on the south side of Lakeshore Road will have restricted access and are encouraged to make alternate arrangements

• If your residence is within the road closure and you have to access your vehicle during the race, please park on side streets north of Lakeshore Road

Supervision Police will be at major intersections and traffic islands. Event marshals will be available at minor intersections and major multi-resident driveways to inform drivers of event details and road closures. Race notices were delivered to all residents, religious centres and businesses along the race route.

 

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PROSPECTS brings together dancers and choreographers to present creative interpretations of several forms of dance

artsblue 100x100By Doreen Nicol

February 14th, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Aeris Kőrper Contemporary Dance is hosting an evening of dance and discussion. PROSPECTS brings together dancers and choreographers to present creative interpretations of ballroom dance, disability dance, Bengali folk dance as well as works charged with powerful content. Each performance will be followed by a discussion with the choreographer, giving the audience a unique opportunity to ask questions, provide feedback and explore themes.

Mushtari

Mushtari Afroz trained in the North Indian Classical Dance form.

“Having produced six successful editions of PROSPECTS, we are excited and motivated by the enthusiasm and positive feedback we received from participants and community members,” said Lisa Emmons, Artistic Director for Aeris Körper.  “We believe our approach to dance is unique and that all movement is expressive and powerful. Our show is created with the intent of presenting multicultural and diverse dance in an informal, warm environment in order to create connections within our community.”

Faith from Faith Dance fuses together belly and Bollywood-style dance with K-Pop music. Her performance, Obscurity, explores an artist’s journey through a mental health crisis, examining how the loss of energy, focus, cognitive processing and lack of desire for being physically present with others can obscure the artist’s creative process and arrest inspiration.

Mushtari Afroz trained in the North Indian Classical Dance form ‘Kathak’. In 2016, the dancer and choreographer established Kathak Bandi Dance Collective which celebrates universal human stories and experience.

Me is a window into Afraz’s private time inside the studio. In those personal moments, Afraz is tempted to break rules to explore new possibilities within her art form. While her body relates to the space and time, her mind challenges the way the audience connects with a performance by exposing the artificiality of the stage.

oswald

Project Oswald

Project Oswald is the fresh, ethnographic dance company founded by Rufi Oswaldo. The company produces heart-felt and humorous dance-theatre works whose themes most often emerge from liminal social and cultural spaces in Canada.

Oswald’s performance embodies the uncomfortable comparison of love to bullfighting, Gentle(hu)man sheds light on the messiness of human vulnerability complicated by societal expectations of masculinity, while offering a silver lining through gentle courage.

cyborg

Original contemporary disability dance

The Cyborg Circus Project, created by Shay Erlich and Jenna Roy, specializes in original contemporary disability dance that reflects the reality and everyday experiences of disabled people for the enjoyment of audiences with divergent abilities.

Safe Words explores what it means to have no choice but to appear hyper-competent in everything we do. The work questions the limits these expectations place on bodies and minds, and how in utilizing trust, risk taking, vulnerability, and community, these expectations can be subverted.

Thea Sachade, a professional dancer from Burlington (Ontario) is currently a freelance artist showcasing her talent throughout Canada and the US.

Thea

Thea Sachade,

Sachade’s performance, 20+, embodies a collection of moments of personal healing and growth through the exploration of self-compassion and the discovery of a healthy self-concept.

Aeris Kőrper is a contemporary-based dance company that produces live performances, hosts community platforms, and leads accessible movement workshops in Burlington, Hamilton, and across the Greater Toronto Area.

Web sites for the performers.
The Cyborg Circus Project
Kathak Bandi Dance Collective
Faith Dance
Project Oswald
Thea Sachade

Saturday, February 22, 2020

7:00 PM to 11:30 PM (Doors open at 6:30 PM)

Burlington Student Theatre

2131 Prospect Street, Burlington, ON, L7R 1Z2

The event is wheelchair accessible, please contact info@aeriskorper.com for details.

To purchase tickets click here.

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Another survey - this one is on a values issue: think in terms of opium dens

News 100 redBy Staff

February 14th, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The City of Burlington is asking residents to share their thoughts about whether cafes and lounges serving and allowing the consumption of cannabis should be allowed to operate in the city.

This survey will help inform the discussion at Burlington City Council on February 24th, to respond to the Ontario Government’s online consultation for potential cannabis business opportunity additions.

The City’s survey will also ask residents their feedback on potential extension of Special Occasion Permits (SOPs) identified in the Ontario Government’s online consultation. SOPs would allow cannabis to be served and consumed at festivals and events in public places and spaces.

To help gather the community’s input, the City has also launched an online survey at www.getinvolvedburlington.ca open to Burlington residents until Sunday, Feb. 23.

To complete the brief survey, residents must first register or be a member of Get Involved Burlington.

cannabis yes no logo

Your opinion on lounges where cannabis flavored products can be sold.

The city of Burlington city council voted to permit the sale of cannabis in locations that were not close to schools.  It was a split vote with Councillors Stolte and Bentivegna opposed and Mayor Meed Ward, Councillors Galbraith, Kearns, Nisan, Sharman voting to approve.

There are currently at least five retail cannabis locations operating in Burlington.

The Ontario Government’s public consultation was announced on Monday, Feb. 10, 2020 and the province will accept feedback until Tuesday, March 10, 2020.

Visit www.getinvolvedburlington.ca/cannabissurvey to register and take the survey about cannabis lounges and at events in Burlington. CLICK HERE to start.

The registration process is a little tricky – pay attention; the city will be using the Get Involved site as its primary way of gathering information.

Quick Facts
• On Oct. 17, 2018, recreational cannabis was legalized by the federal government of Canada.

• On Jan. 14, 2019, Burlington City Council voted to allow the operation of retail cannabis stores in Burlington

• On Apr. 1, 2019, the first round of brick and mortar, privately-operated retail cannabis stores opened across the province

• The AGCO is licensing and enforcing regulations related to retail cannabis stores in Ontario

• On June 26, 2019, Health Canada published regulations for the production and sale of three new classes of cannabis products:

o cannabis edibles – cannabis products that can be consumed in the same manner as food (e.g. food or beverage)

o cannabis extracts – cannabis products that are produced using extraction processing methods or by synthesizing phytocannabinoids (e.g., oils, capsules, hash, wax)

o cannabis topicals – cannabis products that can be used on a body surface (e.g. lotion)

• These new federal regulations came into force on Oct. 17, 2019 and the new classes of cannabis products became available for sale in Ontario on Jan. 6, 2020.

• The Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017 (SFOA, 2017) and the regulations under that Act prohibit the smoking of cannabis and the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) to vape any substance (including cannabis) in enclosed workplaces and enclosed public places, as well as other prescribed places (e.g., restaurant and bar patios or within nine metres of these patios).

Links and Resources
• Provincial online consultation – comments due March 10

• For more information about legal cannabis and the City of Burlington, visit www.burlington.ca/cannabis.

• Visit Halton Region for more information about Smoke Free Ontario

• For more information about legal cannabis in Ontario, visit Ontario.ca/cannabis

• For more information, on an open market for retail cannabis sales in Ontario please visit https://news.ontario.ca/mag/en/2019/12/ontario-opening-cannabis-retail-market.html

• Visit, Health Canada for their rules for edibles, extracts and topicals

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City wants your help in naming three new trails.

News 100 blueBy Staff

February 13th, 2020

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Time to take part and be engaged in the way your city works.

There are three distinct trails in Burlington that need a name. Below, you will see the three areas where the trails are located. The actual trail is shown by the red line.

You might want to consider the history of the area, location of the trail, important people in the city past or present. Use your imagination and suggest your three best ideas.

Trails - first

This trail is along the Hydro corridor north of the QEW, between the North Service Road at Roly Bird Park and Berwick Drive.

Trails Maple - Fairview

This trail is part of the downtown hydro corridor, east of Maple Avenue, between Ontario Street and Graham’s Lane.

Trail Upper and Mainway

This trail is east of Centennial Drive, between Upper Middle Road and Heathfield Drive (extending in the future to Mainway.)

Click here to get to the survey.

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