Kid's Mini Fest - August 13th at three different city parks

By Staff

July 30th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

There a number of commercial organizations in Burlington that go out of their way to give back to the city in which they do business.  Of course the events they sponsor keep their name in the public eye with a favourable view.

Nothing wrong with that and we congratulate those that see their role as working with the public to make Burlington a better place.

A fun example of this Giving Back is:

THE ROCCA SISTERS PRESENT – KIDS MINI FEST!

Saturday, Aug. 13, 2022 – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

At three locations:
Brant Hills Park (2255 Brant St.)
Cumberland Park (562 Cumberland Ave.)
Millcroft Park (4520 Millcroft Park Dr.)

 

Great picture!

 

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ALDERSHOT HIGH SCHOOL POOL CLOSED on the 29th - 9 - 4

By Staff

July 27th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

It couldn’t happen at a more inopportune time.

The pool at the Aldershot High school will be closed on July 29

Pool to be closed from 9:00 am to 4:00 on the 29th – Friday

Halton District School Board will be completing maintenance in Aldershot Highschool which will impact Aldershot Pool.

As a result, Aldershot Pool will be closed on July 29 for drop in programming from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will re-open for programs at 4 p.m.

That is a very short period of time for any kind of work to be done.

Kudos for the short break in the swimming schedule.

Let’s hope they can stick to the schedule.

Please check online before heading to the pool for a drop in program. The other indoor pools, as well as our outdoor pools, are open as usual. burlington.ca/dropinandplay

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That neighbourhood party Meed Ward and Bentivegna attended - the rules were clear - no alcohol.

By Staff

July 27th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Gazette asked for some comment on the street party that was partially funded by the city and attended by the Mayor last weekend.

Here is the response from Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture:

“Love My Neighbourhood is a program that has been running for several years. It provides a one-time per year grant of up to $500 per neighbour, resident or street section, condominium, or apartment group in Burlington.

“Not all applications require the full $500 support. These funds support the neighbourhood with nominal costs associated with insurance coverage, equipment rental fees and entertainment with the neighbours also contributing to the overall event.

“Organizers must agree to provide a free and inclusive event or activity to their community. Invitations are often sent by the organizers to their local councilor or all members of council.”

There is a list of what is what is and is not covered by funding.

The information on the city website is crystal clear on alcohol and cannabis:

Is that wine in those glasses – maybe it’s water.

Is alcohol or cannabis permitted?
“The City will not fund or permit the purchase of any alcohol beverages, tobacco or cannabis products. Alcohol or cannabis products are not permitted at Love My Neighbourhood events or on public property.”

Here is the link to the rules for those applying for a grant – they are lengthy and they are very clear.

Director Glenn said: “To date, we have approx. 70 applications for 2022.”  And adds: “Hopefully this helps clarify.”

To some degree it does.  We will ask now if there is a procedure in place to recover the grant and will Glenn advice members of Council individually what the rules are?

The one thing this incident has done is raise the profile of the program.

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It became clear to a packed room at the Art Gallery that something wonderful had taken place - the best in us was on display

By Pepper Parr

July 22nd, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

Part 2: Queen’s 70th Jubilee celebration

Half way through and Karina Gould calls for a break – asks people to mingle, get some coffee, juice, maybe a cookie.

This crowd didn’t need any coaxing.

What the room experienced, and by this time the extent of what was taking place was very clear.  The city was getting a look at people who have made the city what it is.  Gould explained that the 150 word descriptions were written by the nominators – Gould’s office just typed it out.

Everyone knew some of the people who were recognized but I don’t think anyone knew all of them.

The whole was greater than the sum of the parts and we could see it – it was in the room with us.

The list of those being called forward continued..

William Leggitt
Bill has led many local and international projects through the Rotary Club, including the development of vegetable and fruit gardens in Guatemala, providing latrines to communities without water, and enabling clean water projects. He regularly participates in local food drives, fundraisers, and had worked to support the sponsorship of refugees. Bill always gives the best of himself to make his projects successful.

Lisa Lunski working with a volunteer at Wellington United Church

Lisa Lunski
Lisa has been the leader of Friday Night Community, a community service organization that has provided no-cost meals as well as clothing, snacks and so much love and care to people in the Burlington community. During the pandemic, she pivoted to support the community with pickup and drop off meal options.

John MacMillian
Born in Cape Breton, John joined the Canadian military and became a paratrooper. After moving to Burlington, he started his own company which grew to include 65 employees. John has been a leader in community AA groups for over 52 years and has mentored and counselled thousands as they overcame their addiction to alcohol, enabling them to return as healthy members of their families, workplace and our community.

Nick Manz
Nick has been the President of the Burlington Centaurs Rugby Club since 2017. Through his volunteer efforts and leadership, he has raised the rugby club from the lowest branch division to one of the top clubs in the Province with the Men’s team competing in the highest level of representative competition. Nick has increased the rugby club’s community involvement with a focus on the youth by growing the sport at the grass roots level. He actively supports women in sport in leadership roles and has recently created the Mixed Ability Rugby program, and inclusive sport program for the community.

Brian Mather
Brian had a major stroke while he was a university student. Since then, he has been involved in Burlington Stroke Recovery, and has been the President for 25 years. He also started Halton Stroke Fellowship, and during the pandemic, he regularly made calls to all members, to check in on them. He also happens to have a beautiful singing voice!

Jim McDonnell
Jim has a genuine interest and energy for helping others. He is the current President of Able Sail, a 45 year volunteer at the Sailing and Boating Club, an active Rotarian, an usher at his Church, and a member of the Burlington Seniors Centre. He didn’t let COVID slow him down, and worked to ensure he gathered friends for safe outdoor exercise, and remained fundraising for important local and international causes. His ‘formula’ for thriving as an older adult is “stay connected, stay curious, and keep moving as you help others every day.”

Blair McKeil
Blair has been deeply involved in marine transportation for most of his life, and lead his family business McKeil Marine, growing it to one of Canada’s largest marine transportation companies. Although no longer involved in the day-to-day, he provides support and mentorship. He supports countless organizations in youth, education, arts, innovation, environment, hospice care, business and much more. Blair’s focus and personal sense of duty to his community is evident in all that he does.

Nancy McKenzie
Nancy began a unique initiative during COVID called Meals of Hope, which now runs five shifts out of Port Nelson United Church. They supported Wellington Square and Gore Park Community Outreach Program. She is an active participant in a Winter Clothing Drive and supports the LGBTQ2+ community through Affirm Ministry Group.

Linda Simmons conceived of and launched Writing the Rollercoaster – Stories of Riding Out the Pandemic in Burlington. She is proudly wearing her Jubilee pin.

Sylvia McNicoll
Sylvia was a part of Writing the Rollercoaster – Stories of Riding Out the Pandemic in Burlington. She helped to record videos, offered free writing workshops, read submissions, and edited stories. Writing the Rollercoaster launched in September 2021 to the delight of the authors and readers. The book was also offered free of charge to the public at various locations throughout Burlington.

Raffick Rennie Mohamed
Raffick has been involved in the community for 50 years. He has had many roles at McMaster University and Humber College, was on the St. Mathews Committee for English for Immigrant Mothers, and has been involved in the Burlington Mundialization Committee, the Halton Islamic Association, HMC Connections, and the Syrian Refugee Sponsorship Committee.

Sam Muia
Sam is one of the most energetic and positive volunteers at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore. He is always smiling, enthusiastic and willing to help in any way he can. He is a strong presence in the warehouse and donation area when he is volunteering. Sam is always happy to chat with donors and let them know why their support is so key to our success, and he never steers away from heavy lifting.

Dr. C. Rajasekara Murthy
Dr. Murthy has made contributions, nationally as well as internationally, devoting over 35 years as a Senior Research Scientist at the Centre for Inland Waters and Professor at McMaster. One of his major achievements was the establishment of the Karnataka Environment Research Foundation, an NGO in Bangalore, India. Dr. Murthy represented Canada in several international Scientific and Technology transfer initiatives through UNESCO/UNDP/ UNEP, and the WHO. As Scientist Emeritus, he is still very active in mentoring, visiting professorships at major institutes and conducting international lectures.

Louise Paddock
Louise volunteers at her church and within apartment building’s community. She has created the Three C’s Program at her apartment, Crafts, Cooking, and Conversation, which has been a bright light for many residents. She also helps with grocery delivery, and bake sales, fundraising for local charities.

Brent Paszt
Brent has been involved in Rotary for many years and has chaired Ribfest numerous times, garnering lots of support for the community. A previous Board Member at the Carpenter Hospice, he chaired the Hike for Hospice. All this while raising two lovely daughters.

Stephan Pichocki

Stephan Pichocki
Stephan is a key figure in the Ukrainian community in Burlington. For 17 years he has been the President of the Tyrsa Ukrainian Dancing school, and a member of Holy Protection Parish Council. He is also a member of the Downtown Business Association. Since the war in Ukraine began, he has worked to support Ukrainians at home and abroad. He has organized a rally, cochaired a fundraiser concert, acted as an interpreter with HMC, collected monetary and physical donations, and helped refugees settle.

Connie Price

Connie Price
Connie is a prominent figure in Aldershot and advocate for seniors. Within her active involvement at St. Matthew’s Church, she has participated in a number of initiatives including food collection drives and providing free masks to the public. Connie works with Parks and Recreation to provide senior outdoor exercise areas around the city, has pushed for park upgrades, and works to ensure seniors in the community stay informed.

Janice Skafel

Mae Radford
Mae has had an extensive nursing career. She was as a volunteer manager at VON Hamilton and oversaw multiple community health support services. She also served on Burlington’s Advisory Committee on Violence Against Women, the Ontario Human Rights Commission, the Board at Joseph Brant Hospital, the Carpenter Hospice, and the Rotary Club. In Mae’s words… “As a nurse, my interest has been to care for people, to help them achieve comfort and relief from any pain, physical, mental, emotional or spiritual”

Shirley Robinson
Shirley has served so many in need in Burlington. She was an outstanding volunteer at the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, St. Patrick’s Conference, the Catholic Women’s League, and the Compassion Society. In her many roles, she has paid social visits and acted as a listening ear, delivered food, and run food drives.

Nancy Romic
Nancy manages Shifra Homes, supporting young pregnant woman and mothers. She has turned this wonderful home into a sanctuary for women and their families to come to rely on. A mama to many, her generosity and kindness, her ongoing commitment to these young women and their children’s futures is inspiring and deserves recognition.

Amy Schnurr
Amy is an environmental leader in our community as the Executive Director of Burlington Green. Amy is a shining example of community contribution and does so without a public spotlight. She has nominated so many other volunteers for awards over the years and her tremendous contributions are also worthy of recognition. She has also served as the chair of the Save General Brock Park Committee.

Gordon Schottlander

Gordon Schottlander

Gordon is a WW2 and D-Day veteran, who fought alongside Canadian soldiers. He has given his time to the Chamber of Commerce, the Burlington Planning Board, the YMCA Planning Committee, the Knights of Columbus, St. Gabriel’s Church, the Moon in June Race, and was founding chairman of the Burlington Family YMCA, and much more. He is a family man (he has 15 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren!) a businessman and has received the key to the city.

This one was special.  With his certificate in hand Gord stood during an extended standing ovation.   Proud, grateful this 104 year old soldier stood tall.

Rene Schuster
Rene is the founder and leader of the Burlington Dad group, which serves a pivotal role within the community of Burlington. Under Renes leadership the Burlington Dads have raised over $400,000 for local charities and families in need. Without Rene this couldn’t have been done, not to mention his community group has a following of over 5000 members now. Rene with the Burlington Dads hosts several events a year for the community of Burlington.

Dennis Scott
Dennis has dedicated his life to fostering inclusion within his community. As the Chair of the Halton Black History Awareness Society, he ensures that Black history is taught as Canadian history. He also supports the arts community through the Halton Freedom Festival. Through his dedication and perseverance, Dennis worked to ensure that Burlington was the first city to declare Emancipation Month in North America.

Elaine Scrivener
Elaine has served with the Burlington Volunteer Bureau, Burlington Downtown Business Association, Junior League of Hamilton-Burlington, Boards of Joseph Brant Hospital and Foundation, Burlington Art Centre, Burlington Downtown Partnership, Community Development Halton, and the Burlington Museums Foundation. Elaine recognizes the importance of her role as mentor, and sustainer and actively steward new volunteers into community engagement alongside her husband Bernard.

Lynda Simmons
Lynda Simmons conceived of and launched Writing the Rollercoaster – Stories of Riding Out the Pandemic in Burlington. Lynda worked to create writing videos, offered free writing workshops, read and edited submissions, and planned a launch event. The book launched in September 2021 to the delight of the authors and readers. Copies of the books were also offered free of charge to the public through the library system and businesses across the city.

Janice Skafel
Janice Skafel has been a tireless supporter of refugees assisting more than four families to come to Canada and settle here over more than twenty years. She worked within St. Luke’s Church to form the Burlington Downtown Refugee Alliance and has acted as chair. She also organizes Advocacy Breakfasts which brings in guest speakers. An invaluable leadership skill is her ability to encourage and enable others to bring their own unique talents and abilities and to contribute and lead.

Richard Slisinski
Richard has been involved with the Polish National Union of Canada for 27 years, having held positions as President, VP, Treasurer and more. He has never ended energy and devotion and is constantly fundraising for events. He has also volunteered with Halton Region Youth Soccer for 20 years as a coach and mentor, acting as a shoulder to lean on for many youths.

Murray Sutherland
Murray Sutherland has been the Colour Guard Commander with the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 60, in Burlington, and is now the current president. He has spent countless hours organizing Remembrance Day parades for the last 15 years and has acted as a mentor for many members. His write ups have been used in books, he has spoken at the US Department of Energy, and was invited by the International Energy Agency in Paris to present his take on the emerging energy scenario. He has also taught Oil, Geopolitics and the Middle East at McMaster University.

Rashid Husain Syed
Rashid is a global energy expert, having writing extensively and spoken around the world. He is a regular columnist in the Toronto Star, the Globe and Mail, Arab News, and other outlets, and has had his work featured in a book. He has chaired several global industry conderences and also occasionally teaches at McMaster University.

John Tait
John was President of the Burlington Rep Hockey Club, the Eagles from 1997 – 2020. John has consistently stressed the importance of not only skill development, but the personal growth of the athletes as people. During his time as President of the Eagles, he fostered the growth of the Gift of Giving Back, which has since raised millions of meals and hundreds of thousands of dollars in financial support for local beneficiaries such as the Salvation Army, The Burlington Food Bank, Food for Life, the Compassion Society, Halton Women’s Shelter, the Carpenter Hospice and the ROCK.

Joseph Tassoni
Joseph is a leading member of the downtown Burlington community and innovative fashion designer. All of his product in locally and his nominator can be quoted as saying “I have seen him late at night cutting and sewing away!”. He supports the Joseph Brant Hospital Foundation, the Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation, and the Halton Women’s Place. Joseph is a great resource for other businesses owners, always encouraging and supporting them.

David Vandenberg

David Vandenberg
David has served in volunteer leadership positions within over 10 organizations and helped raise over $350,000 for charities and non-profits. Recently, he helped lead the meal program at Wellington Square. He now is an Advisor for Canadian Tire Jumpstart where he manages the builds of their national inclusive play projects.

Peter John VanDyk
Peter is an incredible ambassador for Burlington, philanthropically and in the business community. He volunteers his time with the Sound of Music Festival, the Burlington Holiday Market, the Taste of Burlington, the YWCA Hamilton, and many more. No matter how busy he is, he always seems to find ways to support other businesses & include those left on the sidelines.

Roy Voorberg
Roy has been an Auxiliary Constable with Halton Regional Police for the past 25 years. Each year he has volunteered hundreds of hours assisting sworn officers on patrol, doing RIDE stop checks, at large scale community events like Sound of Music or Ribfest, managing traffic at road races, doing searches for lost individuals, canvassing for evidence, home safety evaluations for the public and a myriad of other community-safety oriented tasks. He has mentored dozens of new Auxiliary Constables over that time and has been a Sergeant for much of the last decade providing administrative support, training and moral & morale support for those reporting to him. Whenever there’s an issue, he’s the pillar we’ve turned to.

Sheila Waldron
Sheila is a volunteer with Crafts, Cooking, and Conversation. She has also given her time to arrange theatre visits for members of the group, promoted reading and walking, and helped out in the community garden. She remains a regular volunteer at Joseph Brant Hospital.

Dean Walker
Dean Walker has made immeasurable contributions to a more inclusive Canada, especially for Deaf Canadians. Dean founded the Burlington Association of the Deaf and has been an advocate and expert in equity and access. He has contributed to policy in provincial legislation and worked to accommodate deaf individuals in the justice system. He has volunteered with the Ontario Association of the Deaf, for 25 years, acting as Executive Director for 3 years. He has also coached the 1981 Ontario Deaf Olympics basketball team and was Head Coach for the Deaf Canada baseball team in the 2000 World Tournament.

George Ward
George is a longtime resident of Burlington and has been active as a volunteer in many causes throughout the years, especially in politics. George believes in getting involved w

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Citizens recognized for their community work at the 70th Queen's Jubilee

By Pepper Parr

July 22nd, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The event was originally going to be held in Civic Square – extreme heat killed that idea – so it was held at the Art Gallery

73 citizens were going to be recognized for their contribution to making Burlington what it is – they were publicly recognized by Karina Gould, Burlington’s Member of Parliament and a member of Cabinet along with Mayor Marianne Meed Ward.

Names were announce and a 150 word – max – description was read and the person came forward.

The Gazette has been covering the city for more than ten – we knew many of the recipients – but there were many we did not know.

And some of the things they did were remarkable – all simple acts, done with little in the way of fanfare.

Some paused before they stepped up to the platform and did an ever so slight bow then stepped in between the Mayor and the MP.  Mayor Meed Ward presented the certificate which was bound in a vert attractive leather case.

Along with the Certificate was a pin signifying that the person was recognized as one recognized in the Queen’s 70 Jubilee.

MP Gould urged people to wear their pins.

The recipient are:

Robert Ankrett
Bob is a key volunteer at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 60, organizing many events and focusing what the Legion stands for. Some of Bob’s milestones at the Legion include memorializing 28 WW2 veterans, arranging anniversary ceremonies including Remembrance Day, bringing the veteran banner program to the city, and curating memorabilia for the Legion Museum.

Leslie Bell
Les served as the president of the Burlington Soccer League for almost 30 years, and Tournament Director of the Ken Bradwell Soccer Tournament for 4 years. He has also been running a series of trivia quizzes called “Let’s Get Quizzical!” to raise funds for Joseph Brant Hospital, Oakville Trafalgar Hospital and Juravinski Cancer Centre. Les is a great friend and naturally gifted spokesman and compere which was recognized during his work life at RBC.

Robert Bennett
Robert has acted as the managing director of the Burlington Teen Tour Band for over 40 years. Robert has provided outstanding leadership, direction, friendship and sometimes comfort to the members of the band. He always provides positive encouragement to the legions of youth who have passed through the band program.

Catharine Benzie
Catherine is a dedicated volunteer at the Burlington Public Library. Catharine has an inclusive and approachable leadership style and acts as the Chair of the Board. She has worked to make the library safe and welcoming for everyone and has contributed to the development of two BPL strategic plans. Catharine also volunteers at Pineland Public School, and makes Burlington a better place to live, play, and work.

Raj Beri
Raj had a distinguished career as a Hydrographic Surveyor and for 37 years has been the President of Arya Samaj Burlington. Under his leadership, Raj has facilitated donations to women’s shelters, homeless shelters, the Joseph Brant Hospital, the Carpenter Hospice, and food banks. He also organized church services and cultural and social events for the community to enjoy. He always promotes inclusiveness and acceptance.

Lesline Bess
Lesline is a retired nurse and has given her time to St. Christopher’s Anglican Church for many years. She tends their gardens, and packages donation barrels to send to St. Vincent for those in need.

Hilda Binns
Hilda is a decorated athlete, having medaled at multiple Paralympic and Parapan American games. She also acted as an ambassador for Canada at the 2012 Paralympics. Hilda was a founding member of the Ontario Wheelchair Sports Association and for several years Hilda was national membership conveyor for the Canadian Wheelchair Sports Association. Hilda was successful in having Hamilton put in corner curb ramps and having Burlington lower walk signal buttons. She taught children about disabilities in schools, bringing her 58 medals for them to try on! She also volunteered at the Grand River Correctional Centre for Women and as a wellness checker for the community.

Marianne Bromley
Marianne has been a leader in Girl Guides for over 35 years. In that time, she led all the different age groups: Sparks, Brownies, Guides, Pathfinders and Rangers. This is a commitment from the heart as she was involved with Girl Guides as a youth and received the highest award in Guiding, the Canada Cord. She has travelled with different groups to The Chalet in Switzerland, Pax Lodge in London, Netherurd House in Scotland and several national camps in Canada.

Ken Brooks
Ken was one of the founding members of Friends of Freeman Station in 2011 and continues to be one of its most dedicated and hardworking volunteers. In the past year Ken has spent hundreds of hours helping refurbish a 1929 CPR caboose with his hands on carpentry skill while also leading a crew of other volunteers. This valuable artifact would not be available to the citizens of Burlington and the surrounding area without Ken’s amazing contribution.

Dorothy Brownhill
Dorothy has volunteered for over 25 years at St. Christopher’s Anglican Church, and has volunteered for all her life. Her current project is creating snack packs for those experiencing housing homelessness in Hamilton’s Gore Park. She and her group support around 300 people every single weekend.

Rick Burgess

Rick Burgess
Rick has a strong volunteer presence in our community. He has generously given his time to the Burlington Community Foundation, the Halton Police Board, the Chamber of Commerce, Tansley Woods, John T. Tuck Public School, the Burlington Holiday Market, Creative Burlington, the Burlington Museum Foundation, and many more. He is a committed and dedicated resident of Burlington and has received a number of awards for his contributions including a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.

Stuart Carrothers
For the past decade, Stuart has cared for some trees on the property of a public school that back on to his yard. He will prune the trees, water them, and repair any damage, all out of his own pocket. He says he does this as the school board may not have the resources and that it is good to care for and plant trees whose shade you do not expect to always sit. His son who nominated him shared that “I know it’s a small thing but sometimes the smallest things take up the most space in your heart”.

Ian Chan
Ian is the co-owner of Code Ninjas Burlington. Recently, he has been volunteering on the Six Nations Reserve to help older students and teachers learn how to code, so they can then teach younger grades in a culturally appropriate way. When the Mohawk language teacher was set to retire, Ian quickly found a way to integrate Mohawk into the coding curriculum. Ian also set up “teacher sessions” within Halton to teach basic coding to educators and started a program at Code Ninjas to match children living in poverty with community sponsors so that they can have the opportunity to learn.

Gabriela Covaci
Gabriela has worked to support newcomers to Canada since arriving from Romania in 2003. Gabriela is an amazing role model and mentor for anyone that came in touch with her, has been an active volunteer member in the community. She has founded a non-profit, mentored young women transitioning into technical fields, been an ambassador in the Halton for All Campaign, chaired the Halton Region Newcomer Strategy Project, fundraised for women in transitional housing, and authored books. She did not stop during the pandemic and pivoted to help support people.

 Rick Craven
A former city and regional councillor, Rick is a strong advocate for Aldershot. Rick founded the Aldershot Community Council, as well as Partnering Aldershot and the Partnering Aldershot Newsletter. He worked to form the Aldershot BIA, to help drive local business improvement. He has inspiried others by being the initiator of so many projects, a community builder, energizer of the team, preserver of the history, a mentor to many, and true champion of the cause

Craven took Zoom; there wasn’t a chance that he would stand with the Mayor and receive his certificate

John D’Addario
John has been a member and leader of the Knights of Columbus service club for many years and seems to have boundless energy to serve. He is very much an “idea” man and comes up with all sorts of ways of fundraising for the community. Thank you for your years of generosity and teamwork, John.

Maria DiDanieli
Maria represents our health care industry at its best. Through her work at the Burlington Family Health Team, she serves the community selflessly. Her “people-person” nature shines through in in the amount of work she is doing to impacting people’s lives in a positive way.

Mary Dilly
Mary has a true compassionate spirit. She helps women leaving the Halton Women’s Place resettle with donated furniture that she collects. She has started a business helping seniors downsize and move into seniors’ residences around town. Mary helps to run a sit-down Christmas dinner for the community and has also fostered 13 service dogs!

That 13th dog took part in the presentation – didn’t bark

John Doma
John was appointed by the Slovenian Ambassador as Honorary Counsel for the Republic of Slovenia. John continues to wear this voluntary hat with honour, passion, commitment and respect. His main driving forces are to build bridges and collaborative sustainable relationships between the two countries. John is also the President of the Canadian Slovenian Chamber of Commerce and volunteers at free tax clinics, sport coaching, and supporting startup businesses.

Marilyn Fish
Marilyn has always taken care of the community. Always an advocate for safety, she had the speed reduced on the straightaway of her street and the bus stop changed to her front yard to see the children safely off to school. She was involved as a leader in Girl Guides, dragon boating, and is now involved in the Art Gallery of Burlington Weaver’s Guild, acting as the treasurer.

A proud daughter taking a picture of her father

Family members would walk to the stage behind the parent that was being recognized and take pictures

Leanne Forsyth
Leanne is a survivor of human trafficking and now an advocate for supporting survivors and raising awareness. Her strength and resiliency shine through in everything she does.

Roki Fukuzawa
Roki volunteers her time with the local Halton Breastfeeding Connection program which provides free mother to mother telephone support for breastfeeding mothers. This is very impactful to the new mothers as having support from a recent breastfeeding mother provides comfort that someone has gone through all the ups and downs of breastfeeding and can offer tricks and suggestions when problems arise. As Roki is fluent in three languages (English, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese) she is usually paired with new mothers who do not speak English or would prefer to have support in their mother tongue.

Lisa Garland
Lisa brings value to Home Suite Hope. Lisa is the Board Treasurer and has supported individuals as they move through the program. She is also involved with the gymnastics club and leads finance related Life Skills Modules and Income Tax sessions. Lisa has fulfilled her commitment to HSH and is now joining the Joseph Brant Hospital board.

Donna Gillies-Marson
Donna has been giving her time, talents and heart to many over the years. She recently retired as a teacher for Blind and low-vision individuals. She has served with the Children’s Aid Foundation of Halton, Burlington Meals on Wheels, and has helped to increase awareness for stem cell donations when her close friend’s lost their daughter to cancer.

Pat Gilmore
Pat began a unique initiative during COVID called Meals of Hope, which now runs 5 shifts out of Port Nelson United Church. They supported Wellington Square and Gore Park Community Outreach Program. She is an active participant in a Winter Clothing Drive and works to stock Port Nelson’s lending library with books.

Marion Goard

Marion Goard
Marion co-founded 100 Women Who Care Burlington, a philanthropic giving circle that supports a variety of charities and initiatives that serve the Burlington Community. The group has raised a collective total of over $192,000 for over 30 charities.

Eunice Gorman
Eunice makes time to help anyone in the community. She assists the community by removing garbage and keeping the streets clean and helps seniors stay active.

Barb Guilfoyle
Barb serves on the Dare to be You team as well as at Halton Women’s Place. Her kind and compassionate spirit to always lend a helping hand is unwavering. She never seeks recognition and has consistently and generously volunteered her time with numerous community organizations.

Darlene Halchuk
Darlene is the Community Coordinator for Special Olympics Burlington who exemplifies leadership and inclusion in the community. She is responsible for the operation of 8 Winter Sports and 5 Summer Sports involving over 200 athletes. During the pandemic Darlene worked hard to ensure our athletes stayed connected with each other and were supported. Darlene works hard to reduce barriers to participation and is always encouraging athletes, coaches and parents to live their best lives.

Ancilla Ho-Young with her certificate

Ancilla Ho-Young
Ancilla worked as a nurse and provided compassionate and non-judgmental care. She is heavily involved in the community on the Halton Equity and Diversity Roundtable, she leads the Burlington Caribbean Connection, was a part of the Burlington Inclusivity Advisory Committee, and is a member of the Board of Community Development Halton and North Burlington Baptist Church. Ancilla has been instrumental in sharing Caribbean culture with our community.

Beverly Jacobs
Beverly has volunteered at the Carpenter Hospice, the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, and the Juravinski Centre. She has spent 30 years as a peer counsellor for breast cancer patients and was also on the board of directors for the Breast Cancer Network of Canada. Beverly also found time to volunteer at Freeman Station and in local and provincial politics.

Bozena Jokel
Bozena is very involved with the Polish National Union of Canada, volunteering her expertise as a CPA to help with accounting, taxes, grant applications, and budgeting. She was instrumental to ensuring that the Polish Centre in Burlington was able to make it through the pandemic, as well as a dedicated leader on the board and hardworking secretary.

Imran Kamal
Imran is an active community volunteer and organizer. He established Hamilton Lawyers Feed the Hungry, volunteers at a Men’s Live-In Addition Treatment Centre, serves on the Mission Services of Hamilton, the AIDS Network, the Burlington Housing Strategy Working Group, and numerous other organizations. Through his work, he is a strong advocate for the LGBTQ2+ community and Indigenous child welfare.

Ed Keenleyside. with Alan Harrington to his right and his wife on his left.

Ed Keenleyside
Ed is a dedicated Burlington community member, giving his time to Scouts Canada, the Royal Botanical Gardens, the Legion, the Bruce Trail Association, the Historical Society, the Friends of Freeman Station, the Burlington Teen Tour Band, and more. He is committed to preserving Burlington’s history and played a role in repairing and recognizing the Burlington Cenotaph on its 100th anniversary.

Mikael Kingo
Mikael is a young leader, actively supporting the hockey community. He raises funds and supports hockey players with new equipment, “Day on the Ice “events with NHL players, scholarships, and mentorship opportunities. He also volunteers at local hospitals and collects donation items for patients. He is a true role model in our community.

Joseph Daniel Lauzon
Dan has proudly served our country with the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Battalions of the Royal Canadian Regiment and also with the Airborne Regiment. He has served in the Gulf War as well as in Somalia. Now retired, he volunteers with the Royal Canadian Legion Brach 60. Dan has held positions as the Colour Guard Commander, the Veteran’s Affairs Officer, and is now the Vice President.

The balance of the recipient are identified in part 2

The room was packed with those being recognized and those who had nominated and family members.

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Burlington Student Theatre Performing Arts Camp Presents: JEKYLL AND HYDE July 28th - two performances

By Staff

July 23, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Burlington Student Theatre Performing Arts Camp Presents: JEKYLL AND HYDE

Music by Frank Wildhorn, Book by Leslie Bricusse

A gripping tale of a brilliant mind gone awry, featuring a thrilling score of pop-rock hits, Jekyll & Hyde is a 1990 musical loosely based on the well-known classic Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson.

The epic struggle between good and evil comes to life on stage in this musical phenomenon. An evocative tale of what appears to be two men – one, a doctor and the other, a madman – with a score that has mesmerized audiences the world over.

This is the occasion to see upfront and personal what the city has in the way of young people who may at some point in their lives become world class performers.

Every actor or actress started somewhere in a small town on a high school stage or on the main stage of the local theatre.  What Burlington has produces can be seen on the 23rd – two performances.

Dates & Times

Thu Jul 28, 2022 at 11am
Thu Jul 28, 2022 at 2:30pm

Venue: Main Theatre

The Main Stage – Burlington Performing Arts Centre

Ticket Prices

Regular: $26 (All-in)
Youth (18 and under): $20 (All-in)

Group of 10 or More (Visit or call the Box Office at 905.681.6000)
Group: $18 (All-in)

Early Bird Pricing (until Jul 19, 2022):
Regular: $23 (All-in)
Youth (18 and under): $18 (All-in)

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Summer in the city - with a focus on the Band shell on Sunday evenings

By Staff

July 15th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Summer in the city. Kids in the backyard pool making way too much noise.

Older crowd gathered around the BBQ getting caught up.

For those who like to sit outside in a reasonably comfortable chair and listen to music – you can wander over to the Band shell at Spencer Smith Park and take in a performance that begins at 7:30 every Sunday evening.

The Galt Kiltie Bank – they play around their part of the province in different municipal parks

This Sunday the Galt Kiltie Band will be playing.

For those who cannot get out the music is still there for you – a couple of clicks away on your computer

Lawson Hunter who does stuff and different things around town broadcasts the performance live in www.bnowradio.ca

Good social distancing – relaxed – all that’s missing is some good Jamaican Ginger Beer.

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42 years ago yesterday that young man who changed the way we raise funds for cancer research ran along Lakeshore Road

By Staff

July 14th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

July 13th, 1980

On July 13, 1980 Terry Fox ran through Burlington along Lakeshore Road; by that time he had run a marathon a day for 93 days. Burlington has had a run/walk every year since on the second Sunday of September but when the pandemic hit in 2020, the Terry Fox event had to go virtual.

The Cedar Springs team, who have been doing the event for the last 8 years, thought it would be great to recognize when Terry Fox ran through Burlington so they gave themselves a month to get to July 13 and the 3582 kms Terry had achieved by the time he hit Burlington.

The pandemic was scary and Terry was an inspiration for us all to not be discouraged when times are tough and to keep going. “I am not a Quitter” rang true for this team!

On June 13, 2020 they started to track their kms and blew past the number in a month. Again, the pandemic continued into the next year with no large gatherings so in June 2021 they decided on 2 goals since they had spinners/cyclists who joined the team and they exceeded 3582KMs walking/running & 3582KMs cycling.

The Cedar Springs Team – on the road every year for the past eight years.

It has now become a tradition and provides the encouragement and kick off for the Burlington Terry Fox season to inspire others to get their teams together. “In this last week running up to July 13 we had giddy up as we were falling short on our goals but the team rose to the occasion and finished super strong with 3810kms Run/Walk and 3949Kms in bike/spin” said Nancy Demerling the team captain. “Very proud of how everyone added an extra bunch of kms when we needed to hit our goal. The Cedar Springs Team (Health and Racquet Club) has raised a total of $25,000+ over the years and we’re not done yet.”

Craig Gardner, Co-Chair of Burlington Terry Fox announced that there will be an actual physical event at Spencer Smith Park on September 18, 2022. “We encourage everyone to come out, run, cheer, walk 1km, 5km or 10km. Bring your friends, your families and celebrate those who are fighting cancer and remember those we have lost. Be confident that the money you raise for the Terry Fox Foundation and family are true to Terry’s wishes and are passionate by ensuring the dollars raised go to leading physicians who are doing breakthrough cancer research.”

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Puccini, Verdi, Mozart - on the Main stage at the Performing Arts Centre - Sunday the 17th

By Staff

July 14th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Burlington Symphony Orchestra has a wonderful  array of guest voices in a concert that features your favourite opera overtures and arias by Puccini, Verdi, Mozart, and many more!

Guest Artists:

Nicole Dubinsky, Soprano, Jamal Al Titi, Baritone, Angela Sanchez, Soprano, Alvaro Vazquez, Tenor.

Music Director: Denis Mastromonaco

Dates & Times

Sunday  July 17, 2022 at 3pm

Venue: Main Theatre

Ticket Prices

Regular: $46 (All-in)

Senior: $39 (All-in)

16-24: $25 (All-in)

Under 16: $12 (All-in)

Groups of 10+:

Use Discount Code: GRP

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One Burlington at Performing Arts August 1st - A CELEBRATION OF DIVERSITY

By Staff

July 9th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

No Sunscreen, No Bug Spray, No Umbrellas Needed!

New this year, One Burlington’s Celebration of Diversity is being held at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre (BPAC) instead of outdoors at a local park.  Holding this FREE event at BPAC allows us to offer air conditioning, full accessibility, beautiful facilities and rain can’t dampen the day.

The event runs from noon to 4:00pm.  International food trucks will be outside to provide lunch and snacks from 11:30am.  Enjoy lunch at the nearby Cogeco Patio under the trees.  Coffee, tea and water are available free in the BPAC lobby.

Community and professional performers will be featured on the Main Stage theatre.  Shows begin at 12:15 and run every 20 minutes.  Performers range from Chinese Zither players to JoyRide, an entertaining exploration of musical instruments to Tyrsa Ukrainian Dancers.

The BPAC lobby will house community, faith and cultural groups at tables to provide information on their services and programs.  This is a one-stop shopping opportunity to learn about what’s available in Burlington.

There will be a panel discussion in the Studio Theatre from 12:15 to !:30.  The topic is “Working for Peace”.  Moderator Rev. Michael Coren is known for his controversial history as a conservative journalist and TV presenter before his change of heart and subsequent ordination in the Anglican Church.  Panelists come from a range of experience as faith leaders and educators.  Two Prayer Rooms are available for a little private time away from the crowd.

The Burlington Performing Arts Centre is the perfect facility for this event.  BPAC has fully equipped theatres, a large glass enclosed lobby and plenty of space on the Cogeco Patio and the Plaza for enjoying international foods.  All of this and no chance of sun stroke, rain or annoying bugs.

All activities are free of charge. Everyone is welcome to come and experience what Burlington has to offer.

For more information, please contact Barbara Anderson-Huget, Project Manager, One Burlington at barbarinaah@yahoo.ca.

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Unwanted talent in Spencer Smith Park becoming a problem. - Concerts in the Park is what the public prefers

By Staff

July 4th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

Revised and updated

Spencer Smith Park has a special meaning for the people of Burlington.

Trample on what it means to them and city hall tends to hear about it.

Marianne, a nurse, who lives in downtown Burlington wanted to share with you her environmental exposure.

During the late evening of July 2nd the downtown was exposed to a random guy playing acoustic guitar (not very well) with a speaker.

During the wee hours – aka 0330 hrs. – on July 3rd – the downtown was exposed to a random act of fireworks.

During the late evening (beyond 10 pm) on Sunday, July 3rd the downtown was exposed to a random gal singing (not very well) with the assistance of a speaker.

What is the City of Burlington and Spencer Smith Park becoming????; an uncontrolled panhandling mecca in our coveted park?

No police presence or control.

A little further east at the band shell in Central Park the mood and the music is what people preferred.

These concerts take place on Wednesdays and Saturday: 7:30 to 9:00 pm – bring a chair and a blanket.

The program is a joint venture with Rocca Sisters and the city.

That skyline looks as if it was painted in place – it was real and there are more of them to come.

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ACOUSTIC MUSIC SERIES AT IRELAND HOUSE MUSEUM

By Staff

June 29th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Museums of Burlington announces the outdoor music evenings on select Friday nights in July and August.

Experience the beauty of summer nights on the grounds at Ireland House Museum with live acoustic music. The garden stage will feature local musicians. Each night will feature a different genre. Light refreshments will be available for purchase. Bring the whole family and don’t forget your own blankets and/or lawn chairs.

Admission is “pay what you can”, the suggested donation is $5/person (cash, debit or credit accepted). Donations will be collected at the front and back gates of Ireland House Museum. Your donation provides support to the exhibitions, collections management, special events and education programs that bring our mission to life. The Museums strive to make our facilities accessible to diverse audiences across our community.

Advance sign-up is recommended. Walk-in guests are welcome space permitting.

Performers and dates:

Friday, July 15 | Country Night | Haley Verrall
Friday, July 29 | Top 40s | Rosewood Acoustic Duo
Friday, August 12 | Family Night |Music with Miss Michelle
Friday, August 26| Millennial Mix | Dan Taylor
Time: 7:00 – 8:30 pm each evening

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Canada Day is one of the few days you can use fireworks - Safety tips and reminder for Burlington residents

By Staff

June 28th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Family (low-hazard) fireworks are permitted to be set off on Canada Day. The City’s bylaw regulates where and when you can set off fireworks if you choose to have a family fireworks display.

The City bylaw allows fireworks to be set off on private property (not in public parks) from sunset until 11 p.m. on Canada Day. No person under the age of eighteen years shall set off any firework(s) and fireworks shall not be discharged within 10 metres of buildings, structures, decks, vehicles, accessory building or other buildings.

Fireworks safety tips

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display hosted by trained and certified professionals, such as Canada Day celebrations at Spencer Smith Park at 10 p.m. on Friday, July 1.

If you choose to have a family or a home fireworks display, please follow these firework safety tips:

  • Only adults should handle and set off fireworks
  • Only use safety-certified fireworks sold by a trusted source
  • Choose a clear, open space, away from buildings, overhead wires and tree branches
  • Wear glasses and gloves when handling fireworks
  • Keep a water hose and/or bucket of water close by
  • Light only one firework at a time
  • Never hold a lit firework in your hand
  • Attempting to re-light a “dud” or defective firework is dangerous, it can quickly back-fire and result in severe burns
  • After the fireworks display, keep children away from used fireworks in case they are still active.
  • Place sparklers and fireworks in a metal bucket of water or sand to cool down.
  • Dispose of unused fireworks by completely submerging the fireworks in water and soak overnight and wrap the soaked fireworks in a plastic bag (so that they don’t dry out). Only then can you dispose of in your regular household garbage.

Karen Roche, Burlington Fire Chief asks you to be responsible and respectful if you choose to do your own fireworks. They pose a very real safety risk to anyone lighting them, watching them and surrounding properties. With safety and courtesy top of mind, we can all enjoy the holiday.”

Canada Day programming:

Morning events

  • Yoga in the Park at 9 a.m. (Spencer Smith Park, east lawn)
  • Canada Day Run, 1k and 5k at 9.a.m. Register online.

Late afternoon and evening events

  • Food and marketplace vendors
  • Live entertainment from the stage begins at 4 p.m., featuring:
    • The Burlington Teen Tour Band
    • Greetings from Mayor Marianne Meed Ward
    • Special guests include Dragon Drummers, David Johannesson (rock/blues) and K’Bola Band (Latin music and dancing)
  • Fireworks at 10 p.m. presented by Bunzl

Help us keep this event “green”!

  • Bring a re-useable bottle to fill at the water station
  • Take the shuttle bus from the southside of the Burlington GO station (2101 Fairview St.) to the downtown bus terminal (640 John St.) — a short 5-minute walk to the park. The shuttle operates a continuous loop from 3 to 11 p.m.
  • Cycle to the event. Lock your bike in the corral located at the main park entrance (near the hotel)

Note: due to the large crowds, please leave your pets at home.

 

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How will the Indigenous community celebrate Canada Day? They will mourn.

By Pepper Parr

June 27th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Just about everyone has some kind of a plan for Canada Day. And just about everyone will pause and reflect on how fortunate we are.

But not everyone sees the holiday quite the same way.

My friend Steve Paquette, an Indigenous elder who works for the Halton District School Board and was instrumental in getting Ryerson Public school renamed  and for giving the park with the same name something more fitting.

Steve Paquette would like to see sweet-grass grown and harvested in the park now known as Sweetgrass Park

Paquette suggested the name Sweetgrass; it was accepted and the park was renamed. The next thing Paquette wants to see is some Sweetgrass growing on the property.

During our conversation Paquette asked me how I thought the Indigenous community was going to celebrate Canada Day.

I didn’t have an answer for him. Would they not celebrate it the way the rest of us do?

Apparently not. Their take on the day is that it celebrates the land being taken from the Indigenous community.  The day celebrates a day when treaties were signed with the British who were concerned about the land as property which is not the way the Indigenous saw the treaties they signed.

An Indigenous dancer performing at Spencer Smith Park. Photo by Harry Hersh

The Indigenous people were thinking in terms of sharing the land. Property was not a concept they knew anything about or understood.

With that background – it is understandable when Paquette says “they are celebrating the day they took our land from us.”

“They committed cultural genocide and to this day we mourn the loss of that part of who we are as a people”, said Paquette.

So what do we, as the people who celebrate Canada Day, do to recognize the feelings of the Indigenous people?

We read land acknowledgements; we speak positively about the Truth and Reconciliation report but tend to put Reconciliation before Truth.

We readily accept the renaming of buildings and streets.

There is a change taking place; the Indigenous people now have the wind behind their sails.

The number of children who were buried while at residential schools is beginning to sink in – something more than 10,000 children is now more than an estimate.

Many do not realize that Burlington was not the result of a treaty being signed. The land that is Burlington today was purchased by the British from the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation. When the British had title to the land they gave it to Joseph Brant.

Oakville is made up of land that was named in different treaties.

Will the public hear anything more than a land acknowledgement on Canada Day when they Mayor speaks.

Is there anything more than can be said?

Paquette would like to see a stronger acknowledgement and looks for more significant changes and for the Indigenous people being at the table making a difference.

I think he would like to see the end of unsafe water advisories.

How we as a people put up with having other people, who were here long before we were, having to boil the water before they use it is something I have never understood.

 

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A musical powerhouse on stage at Performing Arts Centre - four Canadian talents: Murray McLauchlan, Cindy Church, Marc Jordan and Ian Thomas.

By Staff

June 24th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Lunch At Allen’s is a musical powerhouse comprising four remarkable Canadian talents: Murray McLauchlan, Cindy Church, Marc Jordan and Ian Thomas.

As individuals, they have written for or sung on over 25,000,000 CDs, penning hits for Josh Groban, Chicago, Bonnie Raitt, America, Santana, Cher and Rod Stewart, as well as Murray’s Farmer’s Song, Marc’s Marina Del Rey and Ian’s Painted Ladies, just to name a few.

These three artists have come together adding the incredible voice of Cindy Church (Quartette, Great Western Orchestra) to form Lunch At Allen’s. Attending their stage show is to embark on an intimate musical journey replete with laughter and personal anecdotes, familiar favourites and new material, fashioning an unforgettable evening’s entertainment …from their hearts …to your soul.

On stage at the Performing arts Centre June 29th.

“You would be hard pressed to find another Canadian ensemble with more collective depth of influence over Canada’s musical landscape than Lunch At Allen’s.” – The Beat Magazine

Dates & Times

Wed Jun 29, 2022 at 7:30pm

Venue – Main Theatre

Ticket Prices

Regular: $67.50 (All-in)

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Mayor launches re-election campaign at a farm yards away from the border with Milton

By Pepper Parr

June 23rd, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Mayor Marianne Meed Ward has launched her campaign for Mayor.

Vanessa Warren, who describes herself as a Business Owner, Rancher, Rider, Wrangler, Trainer Coach and sometime Activist, hosted a campaign kick off for Mayor Meed Ward

It took place recently at Capstone Farm, located in the northern part of ward 6: a road and a half north and they would have held the event in the Town of Milton.

Our source tells us that two members of council took part: Ward 3 councillor Rory Nisan and Ward 1 councillor Kelvin Galbraith.

One would have thought ward 6 Councillor Angelo Bentivegna would be on hand. Wonder why he wasn’t?

Capstone Farm is home base for past ward 6 candidate Vanessa Warren.

Nick Leblovic was on hand to do a lot of the glad handing

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Finally - the apology - and a comment about a head of counsel who continually seeks out opportunities to cause quarrels and distress'

By Pepper Parr

June 21st, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Finally, with the Mayor away – her daughter graduates from Western University and Momma wants to be there for that event, Councillor Shawna Stolte, serving as the Deputy Mayor and Chair of the city council meeting got to read out her apology to staff member Georgie Gartside.

Stolte began:

“ I’m going to start with a comment to say that it really saddens and distresses me that we have a head of counsel who continually seeks out opportunities to cause quarrels and distress at the expense of honest and genuine work of councillors. The statement I’d prepared for today is an apology to a staff member named Georgie Gartside for comments made by myself that she was concerned had impugned her professionalism.

“I’m not sure how the mayor came to know the details of the issue  which were a private matter.

Ward 4 Councillor Shawna Stolte

“I had come to a genuine and heartfelt resolution that had resulted in the Integrity Commissioner determining that a public report and discussion was not necessary, as Ms Gartside and myself had reached a satisfactory resolution to her concerns. I’m concerned that the mayor’s behaviour has only served to taint and cheapen what was meant to be a positive and collaborative closure for Ms Gartside and myself.  Having said that, I’d like to take the time now to read the statement that I’d prepared and I hope that she’s listening and that I hope that her experience has not been too tainted by the display earlier today.

“The statement I’d like to make is that creating and maintaining positive and productive relationships with staff at the City of Burlington is very important in our role as counsellors.  It came to my attention, that a direct quote of mine in an article in the Burlington Gazette resulted in a city staff member feeling as though their character or reputation had been affected and this is not something I take lightly.

“I’d like to express my sincere regret that my involvement in an article in the Burlington Gazette on April 11 of 2020  caused distress to a staff member,  Ms Georgie  Gartside, as this was certainly not my intention. The nature of my interview for that article was very casual regarding the first year of being a new counsellor. And my answer to the general open ended question of what was the first few months like was described in a casual storytelling manner, which was intended to be only background material for what I assumed would be an edited article.

“Had I understood that my general and casual comments were be going to be printed verbatim in a series of articles, I certainly would have taken greater care to ensure that the explanation of my own experiences did not have any potential to negatively impact others. While I did not mention Ms Gartside specifically by name, I can certainly appreciate that she felt as though she’d be too easily identified by the comments in the article. It came to my attention that Ms  Gartside felt that the comments made it sound like she had spoken to myself in a rude manner and that she did not want to be a counsellor assistant or that she planned to leave the counsellor’s office as soon as she could or that we did not work well together.

“I absolutely acknowledge Ms  Gartside is concerned that my comments could have been misinterpreted in this manner. I want to state without hesitation that was certainly not in any way what I intended to communicate, and I regret any misunderstanding that caused Ms  Gartside distress. Ms  Gartside was very professional, upfront and honest and advising me during the first week of this term of counsel that her preference would have been to have stayed in the clerk’s department to further her career objectives. And I appreciated that honesty and I supported her desire to continue her career path.

This is the paragraph in the April 11th, 2020 interview that led Georgie Gartside to think that she was the staff member. The Gazette was not told who the person was.

“Ms Gartside remained my ward for assistant for a period of seven months in 2018 and 2019, before being requested to fill a temporary vacancy in the mayor’s office. And during those seven months, Ms Gartside was always highly professional, collaborative, polite and helping to navigate the steep learning curve at City Hall.

Upon learning of Ms Gartside’s concern I immediately sent her a private apology as I would never intentionally cause a respected colleague distress. Miss Gartside indicated it was important to her that her colleagues and the public hear directly from me that I have nothing but the utmost respect for her work and her commitment to her career. And I was more than willing to clear up this misinterpretation. If it brings comfort and resolution to a colleague for whom I have nothing but respect for.

“I want to conclude by stressing that positive and respectful relationships between staff and council are important to accomplishing the good work of the city. And I truly hope that this apology brings Miss Gartside, some peace of mind.”

The complete story of how this disturbing situation came about will follow.

Related news:

The interview that started it all.

The Mayor sets out to squash a city councillor – it backfires.

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Dance Academy - Year End Event - Together Again

By Staff

June 21st, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Burlington Dance Academy is presenting their year-end performance “Together Again”. From our youngest dancers to our graduating students our show is certain to entertain every one of all ages!

At the Performing Arts Centre June 25th and 26th

Serving Burlington for over 60 years, Burlington Dance Academy is the most tenured dance school in the community.

The fully qualified and accredited faculty’s goal is to provide a love of dance as well as excellence in dance training for students of all ages and abilities.

The Academy believes in developing co-operation, teamwork and self-discipline. – life skills that transcend dance. They offer instruction in Classical Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Acro and Creative Movement.

Dates & Times

Sat Jun 25, 2022 at 2:30pm
Sun Jun 26, 2022 at 2:30pm

Venue

Main Theatre

Ticket Prices

Regular: $40 (All-in)
Child (under 2 years): $22 (All-in)

Also offering fantastic summer camps!

Visit them at www.bdacademy.ca

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Where do they come from and why are they here? The Sound of Music of course

By Denis Gibbons

June 20, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Sound of Music Festival attracts people from all parts of Canada and even the world. The Gazette’s roving reporter talked to some of them on a picturesque Saturday at the waterfront.

John  and Sue Sadowski

John  and Sue Sadowski made the short jaunt from Dundas to attend the Sound of Music Festival. A freelance drummer with various tribute bands in the Bay Area. John said Spencer Smith Park is so beautiful it should be extended around the bend to the liftbridge over the Burlington Canal. He was pleased when the Gazette’s roving reporter told him there are long-range plans to do that. Asked how the event compares with the Dundas Cactus Festival, Sue replied, “There’s a whole lake missing at the Cactus Festival. I once got caught in a tornado that almost blew down all the tents on King Street!”

Const. Kevin Bochsler – took care of the Lost and Found Booth

Keeping everybody safe and having a good time is the main concern of Const. Kevin Bochsler, a Burlington-based community officer with Halton Regional Police. Bochsler was in charge of the missing persons tent at the festival. He reports there was one missing child and one missing adult, but fortunately both were reunited with their families.

“If I can chat with people as they pass by,it’s a good day,” he said. “Whatever we can do to help.”

Peter Munn,

Peter Munn, a resident of Winnipeg and originally from Melbourne, Australia, felt right at home on the waterfront. “He was in Burlington for his son’s wedding. “Melbourne also has a reputation as an outdoor city with a lot of festivals. It’s on a big bay, perhaps 20 miles by 30, with beautiful beaches all around it.

I’m very impressed with this piece of land (Spencer Smith Park), they have good food trucks and great music.”

Cimba, the dog, just loves all the people

A resident of Oakville, Lana says she comes to the Sound of Music Festival every year. This year she brought along her cute little Pomeranian  Cimba. “Cimba just loves all the people and how busy it is down here,” she said. Obviously, Cimba also has plenty of experience posing for the camera.

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If you ever wanted to know what footloose really means - It will all be on stage at the Performing Arts Centre this week

By Staff

June 20th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Burlington Footnotes Senior Performing Troupe  –  Gotta SING, Gotta DANCE will be on stage at the Performing Arts Centre Tuesday and Wednesday of this week.

Our apologies for the delay in getting this information to you.

This is a bunch of ladies who like to get out of the house, without their husbands and laugh it up.  And do some pretty fancy footwork.

They are a scream – worth the time.

Tue Jun 21, 2022 at 2pm

Tue Jun 21, 2022 at 7pm

Wed Jun 22, 2022 at 2pm

Gotta SING, Gotta DANCE! is an exciting tribute to the art of staying young showcasing music, comedy and dance. It’s a lavish production featuring a brand new line-up of upbeat and fast paced entertainment presented by the inspiring talents of the 50+ generation.

Ticket Prices

Regular: $34.50 (All-in)

Child (12 and under): $19.50 (All-in)

Group of 20 or More (Visit or call the Box Office at 905.681.6000)

Group: $31 (All-in)

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