Who gets to join Tapp and Noack at the Performing Arts Centre Hall of Fame?

News 100 yellowBy Staff

April 13, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

BPAC at nightThe Burlington Performing Arts Centre is accepting nominations for the third inductee of its Hall of Fame. Established in 2013, The Burlington Performing Arts Centre’s Hall of Fame recognizes people who have made significant contributions to the performing arts in Burlington. Recipients of this award demonstrate the diversity of artistic accomplishment that comprises the rich cultural tapestry of the City of Burlington. The Hall of Fame award will be presented to the inductee at the 2015-2016 Season Launch event held at The Centre on Thursday, May 28.

Nomination applications must be submitted on or before Friday, May 8th, 2015. The nomination form can be downloaded from The Centre’s website

RAINER NOACK 2

Hall of Fame’s 2nd inductee, Rainer Noack

The Burlington Performing Arts Centre recognizes that the individual and group artists are paramount and fundamental to cultural development.

These individuals and groups contribute to Burlington’s reputation as a city with a strong and sustained commitment toward the development of cultural excellence.

On site almost daily is Burlington's Jimmy Tapp checking on the progress.  Here he talks with Pier Project Manager Craig Stevens.

Gordie  Tapp was onsite almost every day during the construction of the Pier.  He chats with Project Manager Craig Stevens.  Tapp was the first inductee into the Performing Arts Center Hall of Famwe

At the 2014 Cabaret, the Hall of Fame’s 2nd inductee, Rainer Noack, Founder and Program Director of Burlington Student Theatre, was recognized for providing training, camps and arts opportunities for children and youth in the Burlington area since 1978.

The Hall of Fame’s 1st inductee, was Burlington’s own, Gordie Tapp.

Return to the Front page

Angela Coughlan Pool closed due to mechanical problems

Newsflash 100By Staff

April 10, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

We got this late in the day –

Due to a mechanical issue at Angela Coughlan Pool, the scheduled Leisure Swim from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. is cancelled. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Swimmers are encouraged to attend the 7:30 to 9 p.m. Family Swim at Burlington Centennial Pool or 7:30 to 9 p.m.

Fun Swim at Tansley Woods Pool.

Return to the Front page

An event to brighten up the way we look at things - Spring is out there somewhere - maybe an art event will hasten its arrival.

News 100 redBy Staff

April 9, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

Spring is that time of year when we are filled with hope for warmer days and sunshine. It’s also that time of year when many of us are looking at our walls thinking “yep. it’s time for a change”.

WO dark greenNow that the weather is sort of starting to resemble spring Lana Kamarić has invited everyone she knows to the Spring Pop Up Art Market hosted by No Vacancy.

The market will be popping up at 408 John Street in downtown Burlington, dates are as follows:

Friday April 17th 6 – 9pm
Saturday April 18th 10am – 6pm
Sunday April 19th 12 – 5pm

The SPRINGPOP supports the work of contemporary artists and makers from within a 50km radius. Pick up an original piece of art from an emerging local artist or buy some funky handmade one-of-a-kind things.

Pop up graphicExpect more than a couple of tables with work you may have seen before. Here’s the list of those artists who will be displaying:

Giveable Greetings
F As In Frank Paper Goods Co.
Love, Ash X
On a Branch Soaps
Bill Davidson
Polar Stones
Sprouts Press
Jason Gray
Hatchet Made
The Shoppery
Debbie Borthwick (Dewdrop Gables)
Courtney Lee
Lana Kamaric
Wood Be Cute
Kyle Tonkens
Sanjay Patel
Richard Veeneman
Candice Bradley
Jennifer Burns
Nikkole Lebrun
Donna Grandin
Joelle McNeil
Kirby Booker
Embroiderwee

There may be additional artists added to the list.

The spring Pop Up is one of the events put on by No Vacancy – the group that held an event at the Waterfront Hotel in 2013 that seemed to crack open the interest in local artists that many felt was not being given the time, attention and resources they needed.

The No Vacancy organization will be holding their 2015 event on Old Lakeshore Road in September – the deadline for entries in the SuperNova event is April 30th

Since that event the city took a staff member who was serving as a recreational planner in the Parks and Recreation department and made her a manger of cultural events and had her reporting directly to a city general manager

The Artists Collective was very clear - they want the Patks and Recreation people out of the culture business.  They want people with training on something other than a trampoline, preferably with degrees in the arts and practical experience as well.

With a heightened interest in the arts a Collective was created that now has 500 people – they wanted the Parks and Recreation people out of the culture business. They want people with training on something other than a trampoline, preferably with degrees in the arts and practical experience as well.

Last September the city put on a very successful Culture Days event supported by government funding.

The Art Gallery of Burlington has recruited a new president who comes from a city a third the size of Burlington where he ran a Culture and Heritage department for the city of Grand Prairie.  Some of his bigger picture thinking might rub off on Burlington.

The Performing Arts Centre now has an Executive Director in place who has stabilized that organization and is growing an audience and expanding the performance offerings.

Burlington just might be getting to the point where it will have a cultural profile that makes it unique and different –  meaning more people can come to the city and walk out onto one of the most expensive piers in North America which just happens to be in the BEST city of its size in Canada

Return to the Front page

Chamber of Commerce Excellence winners will be announced at Convention Centre gala.

News 100 blueBy Staff

April 9, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

Glam it up a bit was the word from the President of the Burlington Chamber of Commerce as they gather this evening for their annual Business Awards Gala is being held on April 9, 2015 at the Burlington Convention Centre.

In addition to the Chamber’s Business Excellence Awards, the Gala also features the presentation of the Tourism Burlington’s Ambassador Award and Mayor Rick Goldring’s Community Service Awards. It is a glamorous and exciting occasion.

After months of meetings and interviews, the Chamber announced the finalists for its 2014 Business Excellence Awards. They named 16 local organizations as potential recipients of awards in a variety of categories. Award nominations are based on overall business excellence and the criteria include excellence in business leadership, community contributions, entrepreneurship, environment, employee welfare, innovation, and market growth.

This Year’s Business Excellence Awards Finalists

MANUFACTURER
CPC Pumps International
Zip Signs Ltd.

RETAIL/ WHOLESALE
Christy’s Gourmet Gifts
Dr. Tracy Brodie & Associates

SERVICE (Small)
AIS Solutions
Dodsworth & Brown Funeral Home
OrthoEvidence
STANMECH Technologies

SERVICE (Large)
Burlington Hydro
Emma’s Back Porch
Sodexo Canada Ltd.

YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR
Waqar Malik
Dave McSporran

NOT-FOR-PROFIT
Burlington Community Foundation
BurlingtonGreen Environmental Association
Camelot Centre

The award recipient in each category will be kept a closely guarded secret until the night of the Gala.

Return to the Front page

Public gets first look at the design for Beachway Park: it is almost five character parks strung together

News 100 redBy Pepper Parr

April 8, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

It was a meeting with a number of agendas – the people whose homes were going to be replaced by parkland at some point in the future wanted to make their agenda the prime one but the event was to give citizens a chance to see what the first cut of a design for the Beachway park would look like – they got more than their money’s worth.

Another agenda was for the Regional Staff in attendance to assure everyone that there were no plans to expropriate anyone’s property – but during the presentation the phrase “priority properties” was used a number of times.

Full view with Scobie

Citizens get their first look at the design of the Beachway Park – there won’t be much built until the hospital construction is complete but when done the park will consist of five character areas that respect the environment and allow for all kinds of activities. The dark blue area will be the major swimming location.

The Mayor was on hand – he didn’t speak – stood silently at the back of the room but got vocal when the Cogeco news camera was turned on.

McIlroy Anne

Anne McIlroy and her team which included planners from the city created the design. McIlroy has done a lot of work for both the city and the Region in the past.

Council members representing the eastern side of the city didn’t make an appearance – the park land is Regional property and but how the park development is going to be paid for has yet to be worked out. Anne McIlroy, the outside consultant told the audience that the team has only just begun to get into what it will cost to develop the park.

Some staff members were assuring people that nothing was going to happen overnight – that this was a 40 to 50 year project. During the presentation McIlroy left the distinct impression that it was possible to do parts of the park in the near future.

The different agendas clashed at times but setting the politics of all this aside – and they do smell – the design that was shown to the public last night is exceptionally good.

It is sensitive to the environment within which it is going to be developed and it allows for a number of different uses of the space.

It is almost five different parks strung together.  The west end of Spencer Smith Park is the beginning of the Beachway. This section is directly opposite the Joseph Brant Hospital and the Joseph Brant Museum. Lakeshore Road, which will lead to the Beachway Park, is to be widened and raised and become a three lane road with a bicycle lane as well.

Living Shoreline

The Living Shoreline section of the Beachway Park will begin where Spencer Smith Park ends. It will include a gas powered fire pit; a native interpretation centre and a shore line boardwalk.

On the lakeside of the road the park area will be called the Living Shoreline.  This portion of the park will have shelters, a gas fed fire pit that will be used for special occasions. There will be a native interpretation centre and a shoreline boardwalk.

The trail that is built upon the old railway bed will remain much the same in this part of the Beachway Park.
This Living Shoreline will tie into parts of the western end of Spencer Smith – almost reach back to the compass in Spencer Smith.

The hospital parking garage and the hospital itself will be on the other side of the road. The Living Shoreline will stretch west to the Ministry of Transportation property.

Each of the Beachway Park sections will transition into each other with Beacons – which weren’t all that clearly explained – to demark the different parts of the larger park.

Strand

The Strand section of the Beachway Park will be the major swimming area and will include the pavilion, rest rooms. rental area.

The next section – working west – will be called The Strand. This section will have a very active beach – it is to be the major swimming area. The Pavilion will be in this section – one hopes that Pavilion is given a major upgrade. The Pump House – referred to as the “rental” place will be in this section. The Catamaran Club will be in this section as well.

There will be parking in this area – what was pretty clear from the drawings was that parking is not going to dominate. Mention was made of shuttle buses that would be used. If the assumption is that the hospital parking lot can handle the weekend traffic – that needs to be re-thought.

Wind Beach

The Wind Beach section of the Beachway Park will reach to the canal and include significant improvements to the pier area.

On the west of the Strand is what will be called The Wind Beach. It will end at the Canal which the park designers hope to turn into a much more inviting location with a better interface with the lift bridge.
The intention is to tie the Burlington Beachway Park to the Hamilton side and ideally see more bike traffic between the two cities.

At the very end of Lakeshore, where Lakeshore Court is located – a couple of yards from the Burlington start of the Waterfront Trail the Commons will exist. This part of the park will be more sports orientated. There will be volley ball courts, a storm water pond, a bacchii ball location, shade areas, and outdoor pavilions that can be used for market and art sales.

Beachway meeting April7-15 full house

By the time the meeting started there wasn’t an empty seat in the room with dozens of people standing.

The Skyway federal pier area will have Eastport Road cutting through it which creates some design challenges.
What wasn’t at all clear during the presentation was how parking would be handled. Many argued that the 27 private homes in the Beachway should not be torn down to create parking spaces. The drawings that were shown last night did not seem to have acres of parking.

McIlroy + Stirling Todd

The Beachway Park is a Regional initiative that will be run by the city of Burlington. Anne McIlroy on the left talks with Stirling Todd, Senior Regional Planner on the right.

What the public saw Tuesday evening at the Art Gallery was a decent first look – the questions for the most part were related to how the city was going to create a park on land they didn’t own.
That question is a Regional political issue and Burlington lost its chance to have an impact in 2013.

As parks go – what Anne McIlroy and her team put together is quality work – if they ever get to build it will be a well-used part of the city.

Return to the Front page

Take an “Egg-Cellent” Adventure on the City’s Website

Event 100By Staff

March 27, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

They want you to figure out how the city web site works and discover the new features and enhancements of the city’s website, www.burlington.ca.

Hunting for easter eggs

Are these citizens of Burlington looking for information on the city’s web site or are they just stocking up on Easter eggs?

Starting with the homepage, adventurers will discover several new features of the redesigned website such as news and alert subscriptions, the events calendar and service requests. Upon completion, residents will be asked to fill out a short survey for a chance to win a chocolate prize pack including a Parks and Recreation gift certificate.

“Residents have told us they prefer to do business with the city online,” said Mayor Rick Goldring. “The new web enhancements and features make it easier to make service requests, stay informed and become involved.”

Another reason is – you usually can’t find or get through to who you want by telephone.

Let’s see how this on-line egg hunt works – The Gazette will try it and let you know how we do – you try it and let us know if you win a chocolate prize pack including a Parks and Recreation gift certificate. We wondering what is going to be in that gift certificate

The Egg-cellent adventure closes Thursday, April 9, 2015.

Return to the Front page

Sp'egg'tacular Easter Event at Ireland House - free fun day!

Event 100By Staff

March 27, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

The sisters are excited about the upcoming Sp’egg’tacular Easter Event being held at Ireland House to support The Museums of Burlington.

Rocca Sisters & Associates sponsor the event as a thank you to our incredible clients and community for all the support you have shown us throughout the year.

WHEN: Sunday, March 29, 2015
TIME: 11am to 4pm
WHERE: Ireland House at Oakridge Farm – 2168 Guelph Line, Burlington

Enjoy a day full of Easter fun that will include an exciting Easter egg hunt with free goody bags for children of all ages from 11am – 2pm!

Rocca Sisters Fashion Show

Sp’egg’tacular Easter Event is a Rocca Sisters Real Estate sponsored event with the Museums of Burlington taking place at |Ireland House.

Additional activities to enjoy include Princesses Elsa and Anna from Frozen greeting children until 1pm, visits with the Easter Bunny, Easter crafts, carnival style games, face painting, vendors and helium balloons plus a take-away from the Horticultural Society. There is also a fantastic silent auction for adults, a prize bazaar and free raffle for children, live entertainment and more!

Visit the Ireland House Homestead and imagine life as it was over 175 years ago. There will be baking demonstrations and sampling, natural egg dying, costumed historic interpreters, traditional artisan demonstrators, and tours of the house.

Return to the Front page

Become more Earth Savvy: Detoxify your life and keep more of your money in your wallet.

Event 100By Staff

March 25, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON
An ecofriendly non-profit will be meeting at East Plains United Church in Burlington (375 Plains Rd East) starting at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 22, 2015 to talk about Detoxifying Your Life.

Organic cleansingEarth-Savvy Living: will start with the screening of the short film “Story of Cosmetics” (8 minutes).
Mariah Griffin-Angus of Environmental Defence will lead a discussion on some of the toxic chemicals that we are exposed to in our daily lives and how they can influence our personal and environmental health.

Participants will then learn some easy ways to reduce exposure to these chemicals by making their own personal care and cleaning products through a demonstration led by the Program Coordinator of Halton Green Screens, Heather Govender.

The event will focus on greenwashing, marketing, and easy changes individuals can make to decrease exposure to toxic chemicals.

Each participant will go home with some products that they will make themselves. Participants are asked to come with two small jars and one spray bottle or squeeze bottle.

The event is free and refreshments will be provided.

The evening was made possible through the efforts of East Plains United Church, Hamilton-Burlington KAIROS, Greening Sacred Spaces, IDEA Burlington, and Halton Green Screens.

Return to the Front page

Free breakfast Saturday if you get to the library on time and talk about your transit experiences.

News 100 greenBy Staff

March 25, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

Now that travelling transit is about to experience a sharp increase in ridership – heck the Mayor takes the bus to work now – Burlington’s Friends and supporters of Transit (Bfast) wants to pull together people who have used transit and hear what they have to say about the service.

Bfast meeting March 28-15This is the third public meeting Bfast has held – their purpose has been to focus attention on transit in a city that hasn’t taken to that mode of transportation.

Bfast has had the view that city council isn’t really transit friendly – the Transit Advisory committee was shut down and some of the gas tax money the city gets from the province got put into infrastructure repairs rather than transit.

A newly formed transit will be known as Bfast - they intend to inform the debate on transit and insure the issue of transit service doesn't get lost in the Official Plan Review

The first Bfast event had Paul Bedford, a former chief planner for Toronto and a strong transit advocate spoke about Transit from an overall GTA wide Lets-Just-Get-On-With-It point of view.

The second session was a Panel Discussion with a City Councillor Rick Craven,
a VP from Metrolinx, MPP & Legislative Assistant to the minister of Transportation, Mike Colle, Burlington Green, and journalist Lorraine Sommerfeld

If there was ever a place to locate a transit terminal - that would be John Street where the only terminal in the city is now located.  Transit department is recommending it be removed and tickets sold at city hall.  Ward 2 Councillor Marianne Meed Ward isn't buying that business case

There was a point during the last term of council that the city looked seriously at the idea of closing the small ticket office – that led many to wonder how serious the city is about transit. If there was ever a place to locate a transit terminal – that would be John Street where the only terminal in the city is now located.

This third public meeting they are attempting to shift the discussion to make it user focused. Bfast wants to be able to take the experiences of those who attend the meeting and work them into a set of Good, Bad, Ugly bits that we can then package up into recommendations for how to improve Burlington Transit.

There are 50+ registrations including the Mayor, and Councillor Paul Sharman plus the city’s MPP Eleanor McMahon.

Share your experiences and what it is like for you riding the bus with Burlington Transit

Share your ideas for improving transit and special transit

Register at electronically or by phone –  905-632-4774.

Complimentary continental breakfast provided.

Return to the Front page

Conservation Authority offering courses for new Canadians with foreign trained environmental backgrounds.

News 100 greenBy Staff

March 24, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

People new to Canada hear the phrase all the time or see the words printed in advertisements – Canadian experience necessary.

When that happens we lose the opportunity to have access to people with skills and talents this country needs.

For a third straight year, Conservation Halton is offering, a training, engagement, and networking opportunity for foreign trained environmental professionals in Halton Region, starting in April.

Halton escarpment - long view up slope

The Region has a geography that is hard to match anywhere else in Ontario. A great place for environmentalists trained in other countries to get experience.

The New Canadians Conservation Course is a six-week certificate workshop series being offered by Conservation Halton for New Canadian immigrants. It is designed to help participants gain valuable, introductory knowledge and enhance their employment, volunteer, and engagement opportunities in the Canadian environmental management sector. Expert speakers will deliver a weekly workshop on topics such as:

• Planning and Environmental Management
• Local Ecology and Biodiversity
• Forestry Management
• Natural Hazards Management and Source Water Protection
• Recreation Management and Risk Assessment
• Governance, Communication and Social Media
• Environmental Education and Outreach

“This is more than just a formal course, it offers a forum to exchange ideas and compare notes on ‘what worked back home’ and what commonality we have between conservation issues and practices here and around the globe. Judging from past experience, there will be no shortage of ideas, networking opportunities, or people with PhDs, who now call Halton home, and are looking to contribute to conservation in Ontario” said Hassaan Basit, Director of Strategic Planning and Communication for Conservation Halton.

Escarpment in the summer - green green

The Region is probably one of the best places in the province for environmentalists to get experience on a wife variety of forests.

“The course also has a second, equally important objective”, continued Basit, “it promotes Conservation Halton’s environmental and recreation programs and services to new and ethnically diverse residents within the watershed.”

Former course participant Junyan Zhang commented, “The Course offered me a broad overview of the various departments at Conservation Halton and what kind of work they do. It introduced me to great people as well as to a variety of conservation topics, regulations, legislation, and Acts I had no clue that existed. It helped me essentially for better career planning and advancement. Thank you!”

Escarpment - outcropping of rock

The Halton Conservation Authority has legislated responsibility for large parts of the Region as well as stewardship of outstanding views.

Spaces in the New Canadians Conservation Course are limited and interested applicants should send a resume and cover letter by Tuesday, April 7, 2015 by e-mail to the course coordinator at course@hrca.on.ca, or by mail: New Canadians Coordinator, c/o Conservation Halton, 2596 Britannia Road West, Burlington, ON L7P 0G3.

The course is free except for a registration fee of $15 for candidates who are admitted to the course. Successful participants will receive a certificate of completion at a formal graduation ceremony during the Conservation Halton Awards of Excellence on June 23.  Click for more details: 

Return to the Front page

Persian artist, new to Canada, will exhibit and do his art work at the Art Gallery of Burlington

Event 100By Staff

March 20, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

Hamed Naseri’s, a geologist from Tehran, in Canada less than a year will be both exhibiting and working on his bold, heavily detailed ink paintings. The detail is quite extraordinary.

Rumi Nebula 2014 AGB

Hamed Naseri’s art is bold, almost daring in its use of colour and at the same time as detailed as the innards of a Swiss watch. Naseri will be exhibiting and doing his work at the Art |Gallery of Burlington.

Naseri draws his inspiration from his life and the world around him. Nature, figures, architecture and the concept of ‘home’ are explored in imaginative realms in his works.

Persian poems are often incorporated into his paintings, occasionally appearing as part of the design. These fine details add to the painting’s narrative, combining traditional stories with vibrant images.

Naseri seeks to immerse viewers in his imagination – to feel the fire, wind and waves. This exhibition marks the one year anniversary of his artistic career.

Hamed Naseri AGB

Hamed Naseri will be doing his art at the Art Gallery of Burlington. Photo Credit of Artist: Chuck Burdick, 2015

A graduate of Geology from Tehran University, Hamed Naseri travelled throughout Iran studying the flora and fauna of the country’s many landscapes. He also observed the kind hospitality of local residents, which lead to his artistic exploration of the question ‘what is a home’?

The artist brought his passion of ink painting to Canada in December of 2014. For Naseri, creating his paintings in public spaces allows him to observe the nature of the city and spaces around him.

As part of the exhibition, he will be working on new pieces in the gallery.

Winds & Waves is at the Art Gallery of Burlington from March 20, 2015 – April 19, 2015 in the RBC Community Gallery

Return to the Front page

Spring will have arrived at 6:35 pm - Earth Hour gets celebrated next Saturday - will the Mayor take to a skate board again?

News 100 redBy Staff

March 20, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

At 6:35 this evening – spring will have arrived – and while there might be one last bit of a winter blast – the season has changed and we can begin to prepare for summer. Two-four time will be here soon enough; that’s the weekend the gardeners come out in force – not the weekend the hockey fans head for the Beer Store – no reason for Maple Leaf fans to make a weekend of it.

Snow plows 2 Spring 2015

These snow plows are parked for the summer – they certainly got a work out this winter – as did all of us.

One of the first things we get to do in the new season is celebrate Earth Hour on Saturday, March 28, 2015. The City of Burlington is encouraging residents and local businesses to participate in Earth Hour by turning off all non-essential lights and appliances for one hour at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 28.

Now in its eighth year, the annual lights-out event, organized by the World Wildlife Fund, brings together more than 7,000 communities from around the world to symbolize their commitment to the planet by switching out the lights for one hour.

Ward Councillor Blair Lancaster and Mayor Rick Goldring put their political repitations on the line and stand on skate baords.  Is there one foot on the ground there?

Ward Councillor Blair Lancaster and Mayor Rick Goldring put their political reputations on the line and stand on skate boards.  Will the two of them try that again now that it’s Spring.

“I encourage residents and businesses to take the challenge and power down during Earth Hour,” said Mayor Rick Goldring. “Earth Hour is a great reminder about how our actions impact the environment. Through its Corporate Energy Management Plan and Community Energy Plan, the city is committed to looking at how energy is used and generated in the community and where conservation and efficiency measures can be put in place.”

“In 2014, Burlington City Council endorsed the city’s first Community Energy Plan, developed with community groups, agencies and businesses. The plan is a holistic view of how energy is used, conserved, generated and distributed with a focus on how community partners can work together to improve and integrate community energy systems.”

Nice corporate statement – but not much about what the city has actually done in the past year

“The city has been working to put in place an energy management program aimed at saving energy and reducing costs for city facilities. In 2013, the city was awarded the Community Conservation Award by the Ontario Power Authority for its commitment to conservation.”

Commitment is about all we have on the Corporate Energy Management Plan

The people over at the fire department pass along some safety tips to keep in mind if you are one of the people that get into the Earth Hour idea.
When turning off lights in support of Earth Hour, consider these important safety tips:

• Test all smoke alarms to ensure they are working
• Consider using LED candles
• Keep candles away from curtains and decorations, and place in a sturdy container that contains the flame
• Always keep lighters and matches out of reach from children
• Never leave the room when a candle is burning.

The Gazette will drive some of the streets in the city on Saturday to see if the message is getting through.

Return to the Front page

Spring equinox gets suitably celebrated by the residents of Lowville; first performance of the hit song - Lowville’s Favourite Spring Things

Event 100By Pepper Parr

March 19, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

Revised: video included

If you were driving north on Guelph Line Wednesday night just a little after sunset you would have passed 30 or more people walking along the side of the road with flaming torches in their hands.

Given that this is Lowville – and Bronte Creek runs through the village and one never knows exactly what’s in the water – there was every reason to wonder what these people were doing out on the road.

Lowville Rickli with torch

Lowville sculptor Walt Rickli leads the citizens of Lowville on a celebration of the Spring equinox with torches blazing

The event was to celebrate the arrival of the Spring equinox – that time of the year when daylight hours are equal to dark hours.

The idea came out of the ripe, supple mind of Lowville sculptor Walt Rickli, who clearly had nothing better to do.

The idea took on a life of its own when neighbor Cathy Cole bumped in Rickli’s friend Janet – they decided a song was necessary and went looking for someone with a guitar.

Rickli sent invitations out to everyone in Lowville and some of his Burlington friends. The publisher of the Gazette got included in that list.

Lowville equinox - on the road - group of torches

Torches lit the way as the world moved to the point where the darkness was equal to the light and spring could poke its nose out.

He thought it was a news release and quickly put together a story on the event. Literally minutes after the story was published Rickli and Cathy Cole began getting emails from friends – saying great idea – I’ll join you.

This wasn’t what Rickli had in mind – so he dashed an email along to the Gazette – asking us to take the story down – the event was for the people of Lowville only.

The story came down but not before a decent number of people read about it – proves the power of what the Gazette sets out to do.

Lowville Equinox Kathy and Janet  - rough

Janet and Cathy relax after their performance of   – an event that will not make it into the summer program at the Performing Arts Centre.

Lowville’s Favourite Spring Things

With the sun set and the Spring Equinox underway – the kerosene soaked torched were brought out – lit – and the walk began. Out on to Lowville Road, across a bridge over the Bronte Creek, across “Mary’s front lawn” – everyone knew who Mary was and along a drive way until they got to Guelph Line, south on the Line to Lowville Road and into the room with the rum soaked punch.

Were there bylaws broken?  Probably.  Were permits obtained?

Lowville singers

The Lowville Singers – with an interloper from Burlington to give the sound some depth.

Then the entertainment – Cathy Cole, Janet and a few others did the first public performance of a song that will be sung just once a year – unless Walt Rickli decides to hold a winter solstice event.  Sung to the tune of Sound of Music – the rendition heard in Lowville will not make it to the stage of the Performing Arts Centre.

Lowville’s Favourite Spring Things

Fiddleheads in forests we all love to pick
Peepers are peeping and the leaves they get thick Signs that there’s life in Lowville in spring
These are a few of our favourite things.

Lowville equinox - lady with torch

If you lived between the two Lowville “gates” – you were probably on Lowville Park Road with a torch in your hand as the Spring equinox arrived.

The river starts running, the trout start to jump The doggies of Lowville they all start to hump Park staff returns and they all start mowing These are a few of our favourite spring things.

When the ice jams, when the creek floods And Cathy’s feeling sad
We simply remember our favourite spring things And then we don’t feel so bad.

Sonny’s on his tractor and Kim’s back in town There’s Simon with Cindy, she’s in her nightgown Walt’s garden’s alive and the sculptures running These are a few of our favourite spring things.

People start running the steps up to Highville Barbeque smoke wafting up from the park grills The Bistro’s now open six days so we sing These are a few of our favourite spring things.

Birds are back singing and Ben’s outside tagging Judy’s with Penny her tail is a wagging
The Powell wagon gets covered, a sure sign of spring These are a few of our favourite things.

Lowville spring equinox 2015 group with torces

Lowville torch bearers preparing the march through the community to celebrate the arrival of the spring equinox

When the bugs bite, when the weeds grow And we’re feeling mad
We simply remember our favourite spring things And then we don’t feel so bad.

A fun evening in a community that certainly has its act together.

The song can be heard on YouTube – Click here – not to be missed.

Return to the Front page

Greenbelt land use planning review: critical moment in how the province protects the environment and limits development - giving the public a stronger voice at the same time.

News 100 greenBy Pepper Parr

March 18, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

Part 1 of a 2 part feature.

It was a gathering of the true believers – they met at McMaster University’s DeGroote campus in Burlington to listen to environmental advocate lawyer David Donnelly, Oakville Mayor Rob Burton, Suzuki guy and female planner who focused on what they see as a threat to Ontario’s Greenbelt.

It was defined as an occasion to celebrate and a time to hunker down and make sure that the gains made are not taken away as the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) holds a series of Town Hall meetings across the province.

It is a delight to listen to Oakville Mayor Rob Burton talk about how that town managed to “green” its Council and to listen to David Donnelly proselytize about the environment.

Debate Warren

Vanessa Warren, founder of the Rural Burlington Greenbelt Coalition, ran as a candidate in the last Burlington municipal election.

Vanessa Warren, founder of the Burlington based Rural Burlington Greenbelt Coalition (RBGC) bounced about the room introducing people and keeping things going.

Warren first crossed Burton’s path when she was delegating to Halton Regional Council on the Burlington Air Park problems. At that time Burton explained to Warren that she had more clout with the Air Park issue than Regional Council.

Several months later, Warren was sued for libelling the Air Park ownership and hired David Donnelly to defend her.  Full disclosure: The Gazette is a party to the libel law suit – but we are not being defended by Donnelly. The evening was almost a family get together.

The purpose of the meeting was to get the community ready for the provincial Town Hall meetings that are looking at the way the province and its municipalities do land use planning.

The Smart Growth for Communities Act – Bill 73 is the focus point – does the bill give the environmentalists what they are looking for and can the developers live with it.

Rob Burton, in a style that is all his own explained how to make a city council green.

Burton Rob - glancingf left

Oakville Mayor Rob Burton

“Back in 2006” said Burton, “we thought if we could elect one green councillor we were on our way to saving the planet. They elected Allan Elgar.
About 18 months into his term of office Allan said to his green cohorts – one man isn’t enough. Come the 2010 election they got three greens on the Oakville city council.

Eighteen months into that mandate the group came to the realization that three wouldn’t do it – so in the 2014 term they elected seven greens.
Rob Burton feels he is on his way and is ready to plunge into the MMAH Town Hall meetings.

Burton explained what Oakville and to some degree the Region has done to protect its environment. What he didn’t tell the audience was how Oakville pressured the provincial government to keep a gas plant out of the municipality – the fallout from the way that was done cost former Premier Dalton McGuinty the government he had then and continues to plague current Premier Kathleen Wynne.

Burton, talking to an attentive crowd – 125 people with more than half from outside the Region, said that while there is a provincial policy and a Regional policy” we in Oakville have carved out Natural Heritage sites (NHS) that fit in with and compliment the Regional and provincial policies.
Councillors Taylor and Meed Ward were on hand from Burlington.

Halton Region Natural Heritage System (NHS) covers 48,000 hectares in the greenbelt, farmlands and urban areas
The Halton NHS goes beyond provincial designations by adding new key features for permanent protection of significant woodlands; they have created buffers and linkage corridors to connect the key natural heritage features.

Mount Nemo 7G - 2

There are development corporations that would love to put residential housing on the Escarpment – not on say the environmentalists.

Burlington is currently working on a vision for Mt Nemo plateau and undertaking a Heritage Conservation District Study.  Nemo 7G/PERL formed a seven-generation, (150 years) vision for the plateau. Mt. Nemo has been identified as one of the best examples of high diversity and functioning ecosystems in the GTA-Hamilton area.

From October 2013 to January 2014, the government undertook province-wide consultations on the land use planning and appeal system, and development charges system to ensure both systems are predictable, transparent, cost effective and responsive to the changing needs of our communities. The government is responding to comments received through the consultations and has announced proposed legislative amendments to the Development Charges Act, 1997 and the Planning Act.

If passed, Bill 73 – the proposed Smart Growth for Our Communities Act would give residents more say in how their communities grow, set out clearer rules for land use planning, give municipalities more independence to make local decisions and make it easier to resolve disputes.

For example, residents would be better involved at the beginning of the planning process and have a say in the future of their communities. Municipalities would need to set out in their official plans how and when the public would be consulted, and would also need to explain how public input affected their planning decisions.

The bill would also: give municipalities more opportunities to fund growth-related infrastructure, like transit; make the development charges, section 37 density bonusing and parkland dedication systems more predictable, transparent and accountable; and support higher density development to create jobs and grow the economy.

The province will be setting up working groups of stakeholders to review further more complex development charges issues, and to take a considered look at some land use planning elements, and propose solutions.

Both Burton and Donnelly point to significant successes and believe the tide is turning and the tipping point is at hand.

Salamander Jefferson

This little guy was a significant part of the end of quarrying in rural Burlington.

They point to the October 11, 2012: Joint Board decision that dismissed Nelson Aggregate Co.’s applications for a proposed 26 M tonne quarry on 82 ha site.  That decision focused on impacts to Jefferson Salamander and its habitat in the context of the Niagara Escarpment Plan (NEP)

In September 17, 2014 the Niagara Escarpment Commission (“NEC”) voted in favour of an outright ban on new quarries in the NEP; that vote went 7 Commissioners in favour, 5 Commissioners against

The 2015 Greenbelt Plan Review is something environmentalists have been waiting for – the Town Hall meetings are just one part of the process. Many people take considerable comfort from the appointment of former Toronto Mayor David Crombie being appointed chair.

This process is something to be watched.

Part 2 of a 2 part feature.

Return to the Front page

March Break - get them out of the house and from underfoot - lots to do.

News 100 redBy Pepper Parr

March 15, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

School is out. Those that are going south are already on their way out of town. Spring Break has begun – and now what are you going to do?
The melting is well underway which means the creeks will begin to swell – which means keeping a closer eye on the younger ones who are fascinated with the rushing water.

The City is offering many drop-in programs for March Break but you are going to need a degree in rocket science to figure out what they are offering.

There are a lot of events at different locations – we’ve set those out for you below.

Then there is the IGNITE TORONTO 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am March Break Community Challenge. Someone at city hall said they were “thrilled to be one of 600 IGNITE community partners in Ontario as part of the TORONTO 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games-inspired community initiatives.

Getting the form:
Participate in daily challenges and get active. Download the IGNITE Passport to discover and explore Burlington’s trails, sport and culture.

Submit your completed passport to be entered into a contest for great prizes.   Passports can be picked up and dropped off at Appleby Arena, City Hall and Tansley Woods Community Centre or printed and submitted online

To participate in the Ignite March Break Community Challenge*

1. Choose an activity – aim to do at least one activity every day.
2. Check off what you did on the Passport. You can share details and photos of your activities with us on Facebook or Twitter and win daily prizes.
3. At the end of March Break, hand in the passport to be entered in the grand prize draw.

For a list of events, check the online calendar, pick up a Community Challenge booklet, and follow the City of Burlington on Twitter and Facebook.
Community Challenge – How to win*

Daily Prizes:
To be eligible for a daily prize, post on the City of Burlington twitter or facebook pages using #IgniteBurlON starting Monday, March 16 and ending Sunday, March 22, 2015. Winners will be chosen daily via a random draw and notified via social media the next business day. If you include a photo, we may ask you fill out a photo release form in case we want to use your photo.

Grand Prizes:
To be eligible for a grand prize, fill out the passport online, submit your completed passport to diversity@burlington.ca or at any participating City of Burlington facility customer service counter before March 31, 2015. Winners will be chosen via a random draw and notified via email or phone number provided on the passportentry form by Tuesday, April 7, 2015.

The city will be offering different sport and culture programs free of charge, hosted by local organizations. Ignite programs include drop-in sport clinics, dance classes and challenges throughout the community.
Passports can be picked up and dropped off at Appleby Arena, City Hall and Tansley Woods Community Centre or printed and submitted online

March Break Outdoor opportunity 13-21

Outdoor Opportunity 13-21

In addition to the Ignite March Break Community Challenge, residents can participate in drop-in gym programs, swimming and skating opportunities.

March break Jr Mini Blast 5-9

Junior Blast 5-10

 

March Break mini-blast 3-5

Junior Mini Blast 3-5

 

Return to the Front page

How do you raise $10,000 in under an hour?

Event 100By Staff

March 12, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

There is an organization in this city that meets every four months – always for less than an hour – before the meeting ends they will have raised somewhere between $5000 to $20,000 for a local charity

wevb

Meet, chit chat – network and write a cheque for $100 and you are on your way home

They are known as the 100 Women Who Care. It is a concept has been rapidly taking shape in communities all across North America. Launched in Burlington in January 2014, it appealed to women looking to give back to their communities in a meaningful way and network with like-minded women. Many women have favorite charities and 100 Women Who Care Burlington provides an opportunity to raise $10,000 for a cause that’s near to their hearts, in almost in the blink of an eye.

The process is simple yet the impact is very powerful. 100 women or more meet four times a year for 1 hour each time to choose a recipient from charities nominated by the members for consideration. At each meeting, members learn about 3 of the organizations nominated that were selected at random, narrowing down the list of options. They then cast their ballot for the charity they’d like to support. Each woman writes a $100 cheque for the charity that gets the winning vote. The goal is to raise a minimum of $40,000 annually ($10,000 x 4 meetings) in support of local initiatives.

The second meeting of 2015 will take place on Wednesday, March 18 from 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. The meeting will again be held at the Burlington Golf & Country Club at 422 North Shore Blvd. E., Burlington. Registration begins at 7:00 p.m. All interested women are invited to attend.

Since forming, 100 Women Who Care Burlington has raised over $18,000 for local organizations and initiatives, including ¬¬¬the Burlington Humane Society, Halton Women’s Place, Home Suite Hope, Food4Kids and more recently, The Carpenter Hospice.

Part of the appeal of 100 Women Who Care is that at each meeting the beneficiary of the last donation addresses the membership to thank the group and to share how the donation will have an immediate impact in our community. On March 18th, Karen Candy, Carpenter Hospice Executive Director will share how the groups $5,500 donation will make a difference for terminally ill individuals and their families.

100 woman who careMarion Goard, Co-Founder of the Burlington chapter, said “the group is continually growing and we really do hope to reach our initial target of 100 members by our next meeting. We’re very inspired by chapters in other communities where membership exceeds several hundred women and there are some cities where 100 Men Who Give a Damn and 100 Kids Who Care groups have also formed. We’d love to see the same happen here in Burlington. This would have a huge impact for our local charities and the services they provide.”

For those interested in joining, membership forms can be found online at www.100womenwhocareburlington.com. Nominations for charities/organizations can also be filled out online ahead of the meeting¬ or submitted at the meeting.

Return to the Front page

New event for Ontario artist's to offer their wares in Burlington waiting for council approval.

News 100 redBy Pepper Parr

March 2, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

At the beginning of each meeting of the city Councillors the Chair asks if there are any declarations of interest. Ward 4 Councillor Jack Dennison frequently has to declare an interest because his sports club operations provide recreational services to the city.

A declaration of interest prevents a member of council from voting for anything that he or she stands to benefit from. Other than that – it’s all pretty tame stuff.

A question cropped up at the Development and Infrastructure Standing Committee this afternoon when it looked as if ward 5 Councillor Paul Sharman was in the process of getting himself into a conflict when he suggested that Lori McDonald spend some time in his part of town.

Artfest BurlingtonLori MacDonald is the woman who wants to bring ArtFest to Burlington for a three day gig she wants to hold on Old Lakeshore Road.
The dates for the event are May 29-31 – which happens to coincide with the Car Free Sunday that is sponsored by Councillors Dennison and Sharman using the $10,000 the pinched from the city budget

Mayor Goldring wanted to know if the organization could “pull this off” with the time they have. MacDonald sounded confident and she seems to have much of the hard early stage work done. There are a couple of hair dressers on Old Lakeshore that are concerned about their clients getting into their shop.

MacDonald has been working on this project since October but hasn’t been able to say anything about it until Council had given it a nod.

Artfest Ontario is MacDonald’s company – which she owns runs. She has been in the art development business for some time – got into creating Artfest when she took on the development of an art show at the Distillery District in Toronto.

She used to do three a year in Toronto but is cut back to one due to the Pan Am Games. She has run an Artfest in Kingston for the past three years and is looking forward to getting something going in Burlington.

She really wanted to be at Spencer Smith Park but that wasn’t possible.

Artfest layout of space

The tents will be set up along Old Lakeshore Road ans in the Emmas Back Porch parking lot.

The old Burlington Art Centre (now the Art Gallery of Burlington) used to run an outdoor art show but after a couple of really bad years due to weather for the most part gave up on the project which created an opening for MacDonald

She expect to set up more than 100 10 x 10 foot tents along Old Lakeshore where she is getting great cooperation from Craig Kowalchuk at Emmas Back Porch who has turned his large parking lot over to the Artfest.

Council will give the go on this, if that is their wish, March 23rd.

In the meantime Sharman will be doing his best to coax Lori MacDonald to ply her trade at Sherwood Forest Park during the Car Free Sunday May 31st.

I could have sworn I saw Paul Sharman wink at MacDonald while she was giving her delegation

Return to the Front page

Are the Burlington Best awards as transparent as they should be?

SwP thumbnail graphicBy Pepper Parr

February 27, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

City hall has announced the closing date for nominations for a BEST AWARD. It is April 7, 2015

There are a number of categories  – all have merit.

What the awards don’t have is an acceptable level of transparency which tarnishes what is an important program that recognizes individual effort to better the community.

Last year there were a number of nominees whose names were put forward by either their spouses, partners or parents.

This is what fan clubs do.

Burlington flagsAn award given by a community with the nomination coming from people who have taken the time to think about who they want to recommend is a true award. When Mom fills in the form and sends it in – it just isn’t quite the same.

The prestige behind the award is paramount to its usefulness. To be a true award with value there can and perhaps should be years when an award is not given.

This city keeps telling anyone with two ears that we are “the best mid-sized city in Canada” There is an opportunity with the Burlington Best awards to begin to behave like one.

There have been comments in the past about people who have “’gamed” the nomination and used the award to start a political career.

In 2011 a small group of people had gathered in the foyer space outside the Council chamber at city hall to talk about John Boich’s health. It was not good and he died several weeks later.

One of the group said to the others” I want to nominate John for an award – the rest of the group immediately agreed and collectively they put together the documents.

John was named the Citizen of the Year several hours before he died in 2011.

The terms of reference for the Awards committee appear to have a sunset date of 2006 – they need an update.

The following are the awards given by the city.

ARTS PERSON of the Year: An individual who has contributed to the arts in Burlington as an artist, patron or advocate including but not limited to, visual arts, media arts, musical arts, performing arts and literary arts.
Citizen of the year: A person whose volunteer activity has made a significant and sustained contribution to the vibrancy and wellbeing of the Burlington community.
Junior Citizen of the year: A high school student, 18 years or younger who has made a significant contribution to the Burlington community.
Senior Citizen of the year: A person, 55 years or older who has advocated on behalf of seniors and/or made a significant contribution to the Burlington community.
Environmental Award: An individual or group that improved and/or protects Burlington’s environment.
Community Service Award: An individual or group whose volunteer activity has contributed to the betterment of the Burlington community.
Heritage Award: An individual who has demonstrated a commitment to the preservation of Burlington’s heritage, and has volunteered their time in an effort to support the preservation of Burlington’s heritage.

There are people who have done some incredible service for both the city and its citizens.  Forms and background on the procedures can be found HERE

Return to the Front page

A crusty Burlington salt will show a short feature film on the Beach Canal lighthouse.

Event 100By Pepper Parr

February 27, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

If you can get yourself over to the Central Library on Sunday the 8th of March you will have a chance to meet one of those old timers who has done it all but doesn’t know quite how to hang up his spurs.

sdb

Sandy Thomson recalling some history for Burlington |Gazette reporter Walter Byj

Sandy Thomson, the great-great grandson of Captain George Thomson, a Berwick, England native who was the Burlington Beach Canal’s lighthouse keeper and diarist for 29 years in the 1800’s has produced a short film on the lighthouse.

The diaries became the base documents for the short film that Sandy and his small film crew have completed.

The diaries were preserved and are at the Brant Museum along with the lenses from the lighthouse.

Sandy Thomson still drives a motorcycle and has a small film operation – Cine 16 that keeps him busy.

Burlington canal light house

The Burlington canal lighthouse

The original Burlington Canal Lighthouse and Light station were built in 1838 to guide ships into Hamilton Harbour. The current stone structure as it stands today was built in 1858 and sits adjacent to the Burlington Canal Lift Bridge under the Burlington Bay James N. Allan Skyway.

The Burlington Canal Lighthouse Group (BCLG) is a non-profit organization formed by Hamilton and Burlington community members to preserve the Burlington Canal Lighthouse and Lightstation. Current member of the BCLG, Sandy Thomson says, “It is important to preserve the lighthouse that has both historical and educational importance. Other lighthouses have been restored on the Great Lakes and this is the only one left to be restored on Lake Ontario.”

Sandy-at-Helm-300x197

Captain Sandy Thomson at the wheel of a Russian tug

Thomson is the owner of marine-parts manufacturer, Thordon Bearings, in Burlington. He provides innovative products to the marine industry around the world. While building a market for his propeller shaft bearings, Thomson captained a Russian steam tugboat, Rudokop, and toured all the major ports in Europe in the 1990-2000’s promoting Thordon’s propeller shaft and rudder bearings to ship owners and shipyards in the Baltic, North, Mediterranean and Black Seas.
“My great-great grandfather maintained the lighthouse for those vessels entering Hamilton Harbour on those dark and stormy nights, and as a former sea-captain, I can appreciate what a welcome sight that light is”.

The video will be shown during the BCLG’s general meeting at the Burlington Central Library on Sunday, March 8, 2015 at 2:00pm. The public and new members are welcome!

Return to the Front page

Mental health leader talks to female high school students about the importance of getting the right mentor.

News 100 redBy Pepper Parr

February 27, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

This was the 19th time former MP and Member of the Privy Council Paddy Tourney held her event for younger woman in Burlington. It was a sold out – not the first time that has happened.

Each year Torsney sponsors a breakfast and brings in a speaker to talk about woman’s issues.

There are men in the room – but they are vastly outnumbered. The room – usually at the Holiday Inn – always has a buzz to it. The buzz at a women’s event is always quite different than when it is mostly men gathered.

Torsney - hands out

Burlington’s Paddy Torsney being Paddy Torsney

While Torsney would like the ticket price to cover all the costs – it never quite works out that way. What she does is look for corporations or individuals who will take a table and cover the cost for young woman to attend the event.

Torsney is currently the International Parliamentary Union Permanent representative at the United Nations in New York – where she advocates for the IPU and comes to terms with living in New York City.

Zahn with students

Dr. Catherine Zahn talks to students about the importance of completing their education.

These high school students attending this annual event are at that stage in life when values and choices are being formed. This year Dr. Catherine Zahn, President and CEO of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, spoke about the importance of mentoring and the changing view the public is developing about mental health.

Dr. Zahn is advocates strongly for making mental health part of the health system. “The divisiveness between communities and hospitals is not doing anything for anyone” she asserted and pointed out that it is time for more in the way of both resources and an understanding of the needs of people with mental health issues.

Elizabeth Small and Sydney MPP office

Elizabeth Small, on the left, was recognized for her success in being trained as a construction worker.

Zhan shifted back and forth between the importance of young women finding the mentors they need and the changing public view of mental health issues.

There was a time she said that literally and metaphorically people with mental health issues were shut away and we knew nothing about them.
That day is gone – but Zahn doesn’t believe that we are yet at the point where mental health is understood and appreciated for what it is across the public health spectrum.

Corpus Christi table

Students from Corpus Christ attend the women’s breakfast.

She seemed to feel that we are much further along with women experiencing the equality they are entitled to – however she is quick to point to the huge income disparity between men and women.

Zahn suggested that the solution to getting a stronger understanding and acceptance of mental health issues is to treat it the way the fight to beat cancer was waged. “Make it an issue and focus on the impact mental health has on not just the individual but the families involved and the larger community” she said.

There is a shortage of professional’s in the mental health field – without the investment in these professionals we will not make any advances” said Zahn.
“I am very optimistic both about the changes taking place in the opportunities for young woman today and the advances we can make in the treatment of There is a shortage of professional’s in the mental health field – without the investment in these professionals we will not make any advances”.mental health” she added.

Torsney made the point with her comment to the younger audience when she said: “You are a different generation; things that are obvious to you were not obvious to us”.

You could almost feel the torch being passed from one generation to the next.

Return to the Front page