MEXX Job Fair in Halton Hills - September 5, 2013 from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm

HALTON HILLS, ON – Mexx a leading international clothing retailer will soon be operating in Halton Hills at Toronto Premium Outlets™ located in the Halton Hills Premier Gateway. Mexx will be joining other high end fashion retailers at the new retail centre which has been attracting record crowds since opening August 1, 2013. MEXX will be holding a job fair at the Gellert Community Centre September 5, 2013 from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. Job applicants are encouraged to bring resumes as representatives from Mexx will be hiring for numerous positions for the new store as well as other locations in Halton.
 The Gellert Centre is located at 10241 Eighth Line (8th Line and 10 Sideroad) Halton Hills 905-877-4244 approximately 10km north of Steeles Ave. (site of Toronto Premium Outlets™). For directions please call 905-877-4244. “I would encourage all Halton Hills residents who are looking for work to attend the job fair and join the over 800 people who are now employed by the many stores at the Toronto Premium Outlets™” said Mayor Rick Bonnette.
For further information please call the Economic Development Office at 905-873-2601 x2345.

Town opens newest green space - Ainley Trail Park

HALTON HILLS, ON – The newest Glen Williams park was officially opened today, as Mayor Rick Bonnette and local councillors gathered to celebrate the completion of Ainley Trail Park. Located in the Meadows In the Glen neighbourhood off Barraclough Boulevard, the local park contains a playground with swings, glider track and play panels, a hard surface basketball court, shaded seating areas with low masonry walls and pathway connections to the nearby Credit Valley footpath. Construction commenced last November and was completed last month at a total cost of $177,000. “I’m glad to see the work of local contractors and suppliers like Gerry Inglis Stone Mason and Sheridans Nurseries involved in our park projects,” said Mayor Bonnette. “Their contribution is part of what makes these local parks work and will be enjoyed by residents for years to come.” Cambium Landscaping and Playpower Inc. are two of the other firms who contributed to the park development led by Mark Taylor, Landscape Architect for the Town. “I’m pleased with the leadership the Town has shown in the design and construction of this newest park space.” Terry Alyman, the Town’s Director of Recreation and Parks, noted that the strength of this park development was the public consultation that was undertaken. “We used a combination of open house and on-line surveys to engage the public in the park design. We are confident that the neighbourhood will be pleased with the outcome. We hope that the park appears informal and relaxed and complements the character of the area.” The 0.26ha site backs on to an open space area of existing trees and includes naturalized areas to enhance the character of the site and manage storm water runoff. Future works for the subdivision in 2014 include a stairway connection to Glen Williams Park that will complete the neighbourhood trail link. About the Town of Halton Hills The Town of Halton Hills, with a population of 58,000, consists of two urban centres, Georgetown and Acton, the 401-407 Premier Gateway employment area, three hamlets – Glen Williams, Stewarttown and Norval – and several smaller settlements. Halton Hills has long been recognized for its natural beauty, active agricultural community, high quality of life and proximity to major centres, including Brampton, Mississauga and Toronto. The Town is the 2013 recipient of the National Municipal Environmental Award from the Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators and is ranked as one of the Top 5 small communities in Canada by a national magazine. - 30 - For further information contact: Warren Harris Manager of Parks and Open Space Recreation and Parks 905-873-2601, ext. 2274 Email: warrenh@haltonhills.ca

Splash Pad Hours Extended – 9:00am to 9:00pm during current heat alert period!

HALTON HILLS, ON – The Town of Halton Hills has designated cooling centres in support of the “heat alert” issued by the Region of Halton and for those suffering from the extreme heat.

Those most at risk include older adults (65+), infants and other young children, and individuals with chronic conditions, such as asthma. The public is encouraged to call or visit family and neighbours who may be at risk.

"We want our residents to know that they have cool, safe places to go to escape from the heat” says Mayor Rick Bonnette. “We have been in touch with community service providers to inform them of the Town’s cooling centres as they deal first-hand with the people who may be most vulnerable”.

The public is advised to "Beat the Heat" by taking these precautions:

• Drink lots of water and natural fruit juices

• Stay out of the blazing sun or heat (ultra violet (UV) rays are strongest between the hours of 11:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m.)

• Avoid strenuous physical activity outdoors

• Go to places that are air conditioned, including shopping malls, libraries, community centres

• Never leave children and pets unattended in a car.

If you experience symptoms of heat-induced illness, such as rapid breathing, weakness or fainting, headache and/or confusion, seek medical attention right away.

TOWN OF HALTON HILLS – COOLING CENTRES

During heat alerts these facilities will be open as places of comfort for persons seeking relief; please call ahead or check the Town’s website www.haltonhills.ca/coolingcentres for detailed information including times, & map location.

Mold-Masters SportsPlex – 221 Guelph Street, Georgetown, 905-877-8488

Acton Arena & Community Centre – 415 Queen Street, Acton, 519-853-0020

Halton Hills Cultural Centre & Library (Georgetown Branch) – 9 Church Street, Georgetown, 905-873-2681

Halton Hills Public Library (Acton Branch) – 17 River Street, Acton, 519-853-0301

Halton Hills Civic Centre – 1 Halton Hills Drive, Georgetown, 905-873-2601

Gellert Community Centre – 10241 8th Line, Georgetown, 905-877-4244

Aquatic Facilities - Daily Recreational Swimming

Acton Indoor Pool* (519) 853-3140

Gellert Community Centre* (905) 877-4244

*Admission fees apply.

For recreational swimming schedules please call the pool of your choice:

Splash Pads - Open daily 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. * extended hours for extended heat days.

Gellert Park (10241 Eighth Line)

Dominion Gardens (135 Maple Avenue)

Superior Glove (Prospect Park 30 Park Avenue)

Region of Halton Heat Alert Issued for Today July 15, 2013

HALTON HILLS, ON – The Town of Halton Hills has designated cooling centres in support of the “heat alert” issued by the Region of Halton and for those suffering from the extreme heat.

Those most at risk include older adults (65+), infants and other young children, and individuals with chronic conditions, such as asthma. The public is encouraged to call or visit family and neighbours who may be at risk.

"We want our residents to know that they have cool, safe places to go to escape from the heat” says Mayor Rick Bonnette. “We have been in touch with community service providers to inform them of the Town’s cooling centres as they deal first-hand with the people who may be most vulnerable”.

The public is advised to "Beat the Heat" by taking these precautions:

• Drink lots of water and natural fruit juices

• Stay out of the blazing sun or heat (ultra violet (UV) rays are strongest between the hours of 11:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m.)

• Avoid strenuous physical activity outdoors

• Go to places that are air conditioned, including shopping malls, libraries, community centres

• Never leave children and pets unattended in a car.

If you experience symptoms of heat-induced illness, such as rapid breathing, weakness or fainting, headache and/or confusion, seek medical attention right away.

TOWN OF HALTON HILLS – COOLING CENTRES

During heat alerts these facilities will be open as places of comfort for persons seeking relief; please call ahead or check the Town’s website www.haltonhills.ca/coolingcentres for detailed information including times, & map location.

Mold-Masters SportsPlex – 221 Guelph Street, Georgetown, 905-877-8488

Acton Arena & Community Centre – 415 Queen Street, Acton, 519-853-0020

Halton Hills Cultural Centre & Library (Georgetown Branch) – 9 Church Street, Georgetown, 905-873-2681

Halton Hills Public Library (Acton Branch) – 17 River Street, Acton, 519-853-0301

Halton Hills Civic Centre – 1 Halton Hills Drive, Georgetown, 905-873-2601

Gellert Community Centre – 10241 8th Line, Georgetown, 905-877-4244

Aquatic Facilities - Daily Recreational Swimming

Acton Indoor Pool* (519) 853-3140

Gellert Community Centre* (905) 877-4244

*Admission fees apply.

For recreational swimming schedules please call the pool of your choice:

Splash Pads - Open daily 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Gellert Park (10241 Eighth Line)

Dominion Gardens (135 Maple Avenue)

Superior Glove (Prospect Park 30 Park Avenue)



Find out what you can do to protect your health.

• More Information about Heat Alerts

Region of Halton Heat Alert Issued for Today June 24, 2013

The Town wishes to remind residents that when the Region issues a “Heat Alert” or if you are suffering from the heat, the Town has designated cooling centres for your relief.

Those most at risk include older adults (65+), infants and young children, and the chronically ill, including people with asthma. The public is encouraged to call or visit family and neighbours who may be at risk.

"We want our residents to know that they have cool, safe places to go to escape from the heat” says Mayor Rick Bonnette. “We have been in touch with community service providers to inform them of the Towns’ Cooling Centres as they deal first-hand with the people who may be most vulnerable”.

During a Heat Alert, the Town of Halton Hills would like to remind residents that they have facilities designated as “cooling centres”, open to provide relief from the heat. Please see attached for details.

The public is advised to "Beat the Heat" by taking these precautions:

• Drink lots of water and natural fruit juices

• Stay out of the blazing sun or heat (UV rays are strongest between the hours of 11:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m.)

• Avoid strenuous physical activity outdoors

• Go to places that are air conditioned, including shopping malls, libraries, community centres

• Never leave children and pets unattended in a car.

If you experience symptoms of heat-induced illness, such as rapid breathing, weakness or fainting, headache and/or confusion, seek medical attention right away.

TOWN OF HALTON HILLS – COOLING CENTRES

During periods of heat alert these facilities will be open as places of refuge for persons to seek relief from the heat; please call ahead or check the Town’s website www.haltonhills.ca/coolingcentres for detailed information including times, & map location.

Mold-Masters SportsPlex – 221 Guelph Street, Georgetown, 905-877-8488

Acton Arena & Community Centre – 415 Queen Street, Acton, 519-853-0020

Halton Hills Cultural Centre & Library (Georgetown Branch) – 9 Church Street, Georgetown, 905-873-2681

Halton Hills Public Library (Acton Branch) – 17 River Street, Acton, 519-853-0301

Halton Hills Civic Centre – 1 Halton Hills Drive, Georgetown, 905-873-2601

Gellert Community Centre – 10241 8th Line, Georgetown, 905-877-4244

Aquatic Facilities - Daily Recreational Swimming

Acton Indoor Pool* (519) 853-3140

Gellert Community Centre* (905) 877-4244

*Admission fees apply.

For recreational swimming schedules please call the pool of your choice:

Splash Pads - Open daily 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Gellert Park (10241 Eighth Line)

Dominion Gardens (135 Maple Avenue)

Superior Glove (Prospect Park 30 Park Avenue)

Councillor Clark Somerville was elected 3rd Vice President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM)

On Sunday June 2, Councillor Clark Somerville was elected 3rd Vice President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) at their Annual General Meeting in Vancouver. FCM has been the national voice of municipal government since 1901 and FCM plays an important role in advocating the needs of municipalities are reflected in federal policies and programs.


"On behalf of FCM's nearly 2,000 member-municipalities across Canada, I'm very pleased to congratulate Clark Somerville on being elected as FCM's newest Vice President" said Claude Dauphin, President of FCM. "Clark has been a dedicated member of the FCM Board and I'm looking forward to continuing our work together." “Clark's hard work on the FCM board over the past five years was recognized by Mayor's and Councillors across Canada,” said Halton Hills Mayor Rick Bonnette. “He will do an outstanding job for urban and rural communities as 3rd Vice President of FCM.”

“FCM plays an important role in advocating to protect the taxpayers of Halton Region,” said Regional Chair Gary Carr. “Clark was unanimously supported by Regional Council and we’re all very proud that he will continue his work with FCM as the 3rd Vice President.”

Councillor Somerville has served as an FCM Board as Halton Region’s representative for five years. He is one of 11 elected to serve Ontario. In addition to his work on the Rural Forum he also serves on committees dealing with infrastructure, finance and intergovernmental relations. He is also Chair of Halton Region’s Health and Social Services Committee. “I’m humbled to have won and there is a lot of work ahead of me as the 3rd Vice President of FCM, said Councillor Somerville. “I look forward to continuing to work with our MP’s and Councils to advance the needs of Halton.” FCM’s successful advocacy with the federal government has assisted in bringing significant benefits to Halton Region over the past five years. From the GST refund to the permanent federal gas tax fund, and now the federal government’s new, long-term infrastructure plan to build the roads, bridges, water and transportation systems.

To view some of Halton’s advocacy efforts to support Halton’s residents visit www.halton.ca/advocacy. For more information on FCM visit www.fcm.ca.

June is Seniors’ Month in Ontario.

June is Seniors’ Month in Ontario. This is a time for seniors to celebrate their lives and the many ways they continue to make our province and community a better place to live. This year’s theme is The Art of Living, in celebration how seniors in Ontario have created their own unique approach to living.


Older adults practice The Art of Living every day. They have worked hard and continue to contribute to the prosperity we all enjoy today. Celebrating Seniors Month has become our collective way of giving something back to older adults and gives us the opportunity to share how our municipality is working to keep our community one of the best places to live and grow older. “Seniors are such an important part of our community” said Mayor Bonnette, “through their volunteer work, their leadership in the community, and their inspiration to our young people.”

We are encouraging Halton Hills older adults to attend our Seniors month events at either one of the Halton Hills Seniors Centre locations or at either branch of the Halton Hills libraries. Activities in Georgetown are planned for Thursday June 13 and 14th and in Acton on Tuesday June 25 and 26th for more info please pick up a newsletter or visit our website www.haltonhills.ca/seniors.

During the month we will also be recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Show the world you care about ending elder abuse and neglect by wearing something purple on Thursday June 13th. Everyone is welcome to the Seniors Centres for tea and coffee and an awareness gathering beginning at 10 a.m.

For further information contact:

Terri Forbes  or Wendy Krever
Seniors Coordinator, Georgetown Seniors Coordinator, Acton

905-873-2601 ext. 2278 905-873-2601 ext. 2406

terrif@haltonhills.ca or wendyk@haltonhills.ca

June is Recreation & Parks Month 2013.

Town of Halton Hills’ Recreation and Parks is proud to be registered as an Ambassador for June is Recreation & Parks Month 2013.


This is an exciting way to increase awareness of the value and important benefits of recreation and parks to individuals, families and communities. The theme, “Live it Everyday”, encourages people to participate in Recreation and Parks programs, services and facilities - everyday! This year we are asking residents to participate in a “2013 Live it Everyday Photo Gallery”. We want you to go behind the lens and show us what being active means to you. Whether you play a sport, hike, walk, cycle or swim we want to see you, your family, and friends being active. “We have a wide range of recreational opportunities available and encourage citizens to show their support of this national movement,” says Mayor Bonnette. “Submit your photos capturing any of your favourite activities around our magnificent Town.”

Submission Deadline: Monday June 17, 2013

Download the submission form from our website: www.haltonhills.ca/recandparks

Fill out the PDF form on your computer and attach it to an email along with your photos and send to: liveitphoto@haltonhills.ca.

Photos will be shared on June 22, 2013 during our community HIGH FIVE® accreditation celebration and meet the summer leaders event between 2 – 4 p.m. at Dominion Gardens Park in Georgetown and Prospect Park in Acton. Photos may be used in future promotional material.

In celebration of HIGH FIVE® photos will be grouped into the following categories which represented the five principles of Healthy Child Development:

A Caring Adult (interaction between an adult and child)
Friends (positive peer interaction)
Participation (involved in an activity)
Play (fun, creative and cooperative)
Mastery (promote learning)


For further information contact:

Samantha Kleinschmidt

Manager of Recreation Services

Recreation & Parks, Town of Halton Hills

905-873-2601 ext. 2263

samanthak@haltonhills.ca

New Recycling Units in Town Parks

Residents enjoying Town parks can now make use of an increased number of recycling bins thanks to a partnership with local business operator Wastewise Halton Hills. Eighty seven new blue wire mesh units were added to twelve major parks and sportsfields across Town to help divert the amount of recyclable material that ends up in landfill sites.


Wastewise has pledged twenty thousand dollars for two years to help pay for the new recycling bins as their part of the agreement with the Town. The Town has looked after the fabrication and placement of the blue wire mesh bins and the collection from the units. Collected materials will be sorted by the Region of Halton as part of the existing recycling program

“I’m pleased to see the level of interest for recycling in Town parks” said Mayor Rick Bonnette “and it is a real benefit to have a local partner like Wastewise to make it happen. Recycling is an important part of our Green Plan and Community Sustainability Strategy and a simple way to make a real difference.”

Wastewise has been supporting reuse, recycling and environmentally friendly disposal of electronic waste for over twenty years. Monies earned from sales of used items are given back to the community by supporting sustainability programs like these recycling bins. Look for the Wastewise logo on the side of each park recycling bin, along with a quick code link to the Wastewise website. Residents can find out more information about the local not for profit company by visiting www.wastewise.ca

- 30 -

For further information contact:

Warren Harris
Manager of Parks and Open Space
Recreation & Parks
Tel: 905-873-2601 ext. 2274

Halton Hills Physician Program Helps Attract New Family Physician

Mayor Bonnette is pleased to announce that Dr. Lindsay Downey has established a new family practice in Halton Hills. Dr. Downey will be obtaining financial support through the Physician Recruitment Program which was initiated in 2009 to recruit family doctors to the community.


The program provides a $5,000.00 grant and a $10,000.00 interest free loan repayable over five years, the funds can be used for the purchase of equipment or to set up an office. The doctor agrees to maintain an active family practice for a minimum of five years.

“Halton Hills is a great place to live and work and having local medical care is very important to maintain our high quality of life” said Mayor Bonnette. “The Town continues to invest wisely to attract new doctors and with our recent financial support of the Georgetown Hospital we know that our residents will continue to receive quality healthcare” continued the Mayor.

Dr. Downey graduated from the medical school at the University of Western Ontario and completed her residency at McMaster University. Dr. Downey has joined the Halton Hills Family Health Team located at 199 Princess Anne Drive in Georgetown and is accepting new patients. In addition Dr. Downey has privileges at Georgetown Hospital and will be practicing obstetrics at William Osler Hospital in Brampton.

Dr. Downey stated “I am looking forward to establishing my medical career in Halton Hills and as a new resident to Georgetown look forward to providing health care for my patients for many years to come”.

The Town of Halton Hills works closely with the Region of Halton to attract and retain family physicians to the community. For more information about the Physician Recruitment Program please contact the Town at 905-873-2601 x2343.

For further information contact:  Doug Penrice, Economic Development Officer
905-873-2601 2343 - Email: dougp@haltonhills.ca

Halton Hills 200,000 KM Community Cycling Challenge

The Town of Halton Hills announces the 200,000 Kilometre Community Cycling Challenge, a unique community program designed to promote a more physically active and engaged citizenry. The residents of Halton Hills are being challenged to ride their bikes more often and further than ever before to meet this significant goal.


We are looking to our residents, regardless of age, to ride their bicycles as much as possible during the 2013 cycling season and submit their achievements to a website designed especially for the Halton Hills Challenge, www.bikechallenge.ca.

“200,000 KM is a huge number and so we have arranged for some special community rewards when we reach the halfway point and again when we conquer the challenge.” Said Committee Chair, Councillor Jane Fogal. “At 100,000 KM Georgetown Canadian Tire has agreed to donate $20,000 to the Georgetown Hospital Foundation and at 200,000 KM The Peter Gilgan Foundation and Mattamy Homes will donate an additional $20,000 to the hospital”.

Every kilometer counts and every rider from infrequent to lycra-clad can contribute to the success of the whole community. Families are especially encouraged and the website allows for family registrations. This represents a tremendous opportunity for everyone to join in a community effort and share in our success while enjoying a healthy lifestyle. It is a win, win, win for everyone.

The Halton Hills Community Challenge is sponsored by the Bicycle Friendly Community Committee, a Town affiliate dedicated to improving cycling opportunities in Halton Hills. The main purpose of the 200,000 KM Challenge is to encourage all our residents to be more active. Linking it to the Hospital Capital Campaign will hopefully inspire more people to jump on board.

“We are committed to having an active healthy community and this is a tremendous way to encourage the physical activity we all need. I really hope people will do the riding and the logging so we can see the money flow to the hospital.” said Mayor Bonnette.

“This is a great idea and we are very honoured to be chosen as the benefiting charity for the Community Challenge” said K.C. Carruthers of the Georgetown Hospital Foundation.

The contributions of the Peter Gilgan Foundation and Mattamy Homes, Georgetown Canadian Tire and Epic Tour Halton are gratefully acknowledged.

The website is now open for business at www.bikechallenge.ca. It is a dynamic site where participants can instantly see how their contribution has helped and can keep track of their own achievements.

For more information please visit the Town’s website at http://haltonhills.ca/community/CycleChallenge.php

Halton Hills Successfully Celebrates Earth HourTM

For the sixth year in a row, the Town, our residents, businesses, schools and other organizations collaborated to celebrate the global Earth Hour event, focusing on energy conservation and fighting climate change. Together, we have demonstrated our commitment to energy conservation and to promoting awareness about climate change. Every year, Earth Hour is a practical action that all of us can take in support of a more sustainable future and higher quality of life. Once again, I am proud of our community’s achievements and our 5.23% energy reduction.

The objective of Earth Hour is to bring awareness to climate change and the need to protect the environment. Earth Hour is no longer just about turning the lights off for an hour. Instead, it is an opportunity to promote year-round conservation, and the importance of taking long-lasting steps that benefit the health of our planet.

In 2013, with the growing support of numerous local businesses, schools, residents, organizations, and Town and Halton Hills Hydro staff, during Earth Hour, energy consumption decreased by 5.23% or 3,157 kWh. This is enough electricity to power approximately 2,840 homes for an hour! Since first participating in Earth Hour in 2008, the community has saved enough electricity to power about 20,040 average homes for one hour! The 5.23% reduction for Earth Hour 2013 is an important increase over the 3.9% reduction achieved in 2012.

Throughout Halton Hills, Earth Hour participants included students from local schools (e.g. St. Joseph School, Robert Little School and Gardiner Public School), residents, businesses and organizations. Many of these shared how they will celebrate Earth Hour by writing down their suggestions on posters of stars. For a limited time, these posters will be on display at Town Hall. Many businesses throughout Town supported Earth Hour and displayed Earth Hour posters.

In addition, about 200 residents enjoyed a very successful family star gazing presentation on March 23, 2013, and explored the night sky through high powered telescopes. Special thanks to everyone involved in the success of this event, including Halton Hills Hydro, Saputo and Gardiner Public School.

According to the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO), across Ontario, Earth Hour translated into a 2.7% or 448 megawatts electricity reduction, more than the average peak energy needs of a city the size of Burlington.

According to an Earth Hour media release, Earth Hour 2013 was celebrated in over 7,000 cities, towns and municipalities around the world. Over 150 countries and territories participated.

Earth Hour is a worldwide event, but it alone will not reverse climate change. Therefore, this year, take steps to go beyond the hour, by embracing a green lifestyle throughout the year. For useful conservation tips, visit: www.haltonhills.ca/sustainability and www.haltonhillshydro.com

Additional information on the Town’s sustainability initiatives is available via:

• Website: www.haltonhills.ca/sustainability

• Twitter: www.twitter.com/ImagineHH or @ImagineHH

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/ImagineHaltonHills

Ideas for Celebrating Earth HourTM

HALTON HILLS – Earth HourTM is fast approaching. On Saturday, March 23rd, 2013 between 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., Earth Hour will be celebrated around the world.
The objective of Earth Hour is to increase public awareness of the need to decrease energy use and to take action against climate change. Earth Hour is no longer just about turning the lights off for an hour. Instead, it is an opportunity to promote year-round conservation and long-lasting actions that benefit the health of our planet. Earth Hour participation is voluntary, fun and informative.
Reflecting on the importance of Earth Hour, Mayor Bonnette said:
“Everyone, including our residents, schools and businesses, can take simple steps to reduce their energy use and help address climate change. I encourage everyone to celebrate Earth Hour on March 23rd and throughout the year. Everyone’s participation is important to once again making Earth Hour a success.
Last year, more than 7,000 municipalities in 152 countries and territories worldwide switched off their lights to participate in the largest climate campaign ever! Halton Hills was one of these communities.
I am very proud of the fact that, since first participating in Earth Hour, together, our community has saved enough electricity to power a about 17,200 homes for one hour!”

Below are some simple suggestions for how residents, schools and businesses can participate:

For Residents:
• Visit the Halton Hills Library in Georgetown or Acton and share how you will celebrate Earth Hour. Write your ideas down on a star and glue it onto the large poster.

• Bring the family to an exciting, fun and free star gazing event hosted by the Town of Halton Hills and Gardiner Public School. The event is sponsored by Halton Hills Hydro. Light refreshments will be provided courtesy of Saputo. The event is open to the public. Due to limited space pre-registration is required. Please contact 905.873.2601 ext. 2290 or jennifers@haltonhills.ca

• Turn off any unnecessary lights and electronics without compromising safety.

• Change your traditional light bulbs to much more efficient compact fluorescent lights or LED bulbs.

• Turn down the thermostat.

• Avoid operating major appliances during Earth Hour.

• Enjoy a candlelit dinner with family and friends.

• Read bedtime stories by flashlight.

• Organize community discussions on environmental issues.

• Commit to energy conservation throughout the year.

For Schools:

• Organize symbolic Earth Hour events on Friday March 22nd since schools are closed on Saturday, March 23rd.
• Turn off or dim any unnecessary lights, without compromising safety and security.
• Organize environmentally-themed contests and activities for students and teachers.

For Businesses:
• Browse the Earth Hour website for ideas as to how your business can participate: www.EarthHourCanada.org

• Post information on Earth Hour on your website. Electronic banners can be downloaded from www.EarthHourCanada.org

• Turn off or dim any unnecessary lights (including outdoor signs) and major appliances, without compromising safety and security.

• Promote Earth Hour to your employees and customers by displaying Earth Hour posters in store windows and on restaurant tables (e.g. menu inserts, table cards). Contact the Office of Sustainability at 905-873-2601 ext. 2290 for a copy of a free poster(s).

• Inform your staff and customers about Earth Hour. Encourage them to participate.

• Reduce energy use. Turn down your thermostat.

• Replace inefficient light bulbs with much more efficient compact fluorescent (CFL) lights or LED bulbs.

• Ahead of Earth Hour, advertise special pricing on energy conservation items such as compact fluorescent light bulbs, clotheslines, LED lights, energy meters and programmable thermostats.

• Unplug electrical equipment (e.g. computers) before leaving for the day on Saturday March 23rd and everyday thereafter.

• Consider purchasing green electricity to power your business.
• If you operate a restaurant:

*  Offer a special meal or a day’s special to recognize Earth Hour which begins at 8:30 p.m.
*  Offer a special meal composed of more locally grown ingredients or a meal that does not require a lot of energy to prepare.

o Offer candlelit dinner service.

• If your business cannot participate on Saturday March 23rd, consider taking action on Friday March 22nd.

So, don't be afraid of the dark! Remember to turn off your lights and reduce energy use during Earth Hour on Saturday March 23rd between

8:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Be creative, have fun and stay safe!

Additional information on the Town’s sustainability initiatives is available via:

• Twitter: www.twitter.com/ImagineHH or @ImagineHH

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/ImagineHaltonHills

Play for the Day Program

Don’t get caught without a plan!

Sign up children aged 4 -13 for Play for the Day Program on

Friday, January 11, 2013.

Location: Gellert Community Centre, Georgetown

Fee: $36.00

Time: 9:00am-4:00pm (course code: 82502)

Extended supervision is available from 8:00-9:00am and

4:00-5:30pm for an additional $10.00 (course code 82503)

Activities will be led by trained Town Program Leaders, and will include games, crafts, play, and outdoor activities. Children are required to dress in comfortable play clothes and bring clean indoor running shoes, lunch/snacks, and outdoor clothing including mittens, hats, and boots.

Advance registration is REQUIRED. Please register in person at the Civic Centre or the Gellert Community Centre, or using Tele-Reg or Reg-e at www.haltonhills.ca

Due to the short lead time for this program registration will NOT be accepted via Town drop boxes. More information is available by calling Recreation & Parks Registration Hotline at 905.873.2601 ext. 2275 or Gellert Community Centre at 905.877.4244 ext. 2700.

Also available on Fri. Jan. 11/13: Public skating at the Acton Arena from 1:30-2:50 pm and at the Mold-Masters SportsPlex from 2:00-3:30 pm at a cost of $2.00/youth and $3.00/adult.

Town “Play for the Day” Program Offered Friday, January 11, 2013

TOWN OF HALTON HILLS – In response to the elementary school closure, the Town of Halton Hills is offering a PLAY FOR THE DAY program on Friday, January 11, 2013 from 9:00am-4:00pm for children ages 4-13. The program will operate at the Gellert Community Centre in Georgetown for $36.00 (course code 82502). Extended supervision is available from 8:00-9:00am and 4:00-5:30pm at an additional cost of $10.00 (course code 82503).

“This is a stressful situation for many people”, says Mayor Bonnette. “We are attempting to relieve some of the pressure parents and guardians may feel by providing a safe place for their children to spend the day”.

Activities will be led by trained Town Program Leaders, and will include games, crafts, play, and outdoor activities. Children are required to dress in comfortable play clothes, to bring clean indoor running shoes, lunch/snacks, and outdoor clothing including mittens, hats, and boots.

Advance registration is REQUIRED and available in person at the Civic Centre and the Gellert Community Centre, and through both Reg-e and Tele-Reg at www.haltonhills.ca. Due to the short lead time for this program please DO NOT drop off registrations in Town drop boxes. More information is available by calling Recreation & Parks Registration Hotline at 905.873.2601 ext. 2275 or Gellert Community Centre at 905.877.4244 ext. 2700.

Additionally, public skating is scheduled at the Acton Arena and Community Centre from 1:30-2:50pm and at the Mold-Masters SportsPlex from 2:00-3:30pm at a cost of $2.00/youth and $3.00/adult.


For further information contact:

Margaret Taylor

Recreation Supervisor – Community Programs

Recreation & Parks

905.873.2601 ext 2276

Email: MargaretT@haltonhills.ca