Purchase Mayor Bonnette's Children's E-Book entitled “The Incredible Adventures of Goon Sharoon"

All proceeds will be donated to the Georgetown Hospital

http://www.goonsharoon.com/

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Town to Become Curator of an Extraordinary Art Collection

Through the efforts of the Library and Cultural Centre Campaign Team, Town Council was offered a gift of a lifetime earlier this week. Long-time resident and retired Principal of the law firm Helson Kogon Ashbee & Schaljo, Fred Helson has gifted a most incredible art collection to the people of Halton Hills.
“A gift of this magnitude and significance is an incredible cultural gift to the community,” exclaimed Mayor Rick Bonnette. “To recognize Mr. Helson for his remarkable generosity to the Town, Council is pleased to dedicate the newly refurbished gallery as the Helson Gallery.”

When asked why he decided to donate his expansive collection of art to the Town, Mr. Helson simply said, “Well… I would really like to see people enjoy them as much as I have over the years!”
Barbara Mitchell, an independent Fine Arts Consultant who was involved in appraising the overall gift had this to say, “The exceptionality of this gift is the breadth and quality of both its Canadian historical component and its non-Canadian historical component. It is an exceptional cultural opportunity for a small but thriving local community and thus for its local economy.”

Given the significance of this gift to the community, Council has further agreed to dedicate the Gallery to house the Collection on a permanent basis. According to Councillor Jane Fogal, “The Helson Art Collection is of such significance that it is worthy of a permanent home in the Gallery where it will certainly be viewed as the crown jewel of our vibrant art scene.”

When asked about how this might impact people who have used the Gallery in past, local artist and member of the Cultural Roundtable, Carolyn Martin, had this to say, “The opportunities presented by the acquisition of this collection are amazing. Local artists may lose the space in the Cultural Centre Gallery where they have become accustomed to exhibiting their own artwork. But the Town has assured us that there will still be places to exhibit in the same building. Just think of the opportunity to have local artists’ works seen in the same venue as Canadian Cultural icons – by visitors who would never have come to Halton Hills to view or purchase artworks without this collection drawing them to our town. I really feel that this is just the beginning of an exciting journey for local artists as businesses realize the possibilities presented by the collection. I am positive that there will be many new places to exhibit local art as the Town works with the artistic community to provide opportunities to showcase our talents.”
Lastly, Brenda Sisnett, Chair of the Library and Cultural Centre Capital Campaign ‘Perchance to Dream’ remarked, “This is very exciting news and provides a remarkable leadership gift to our campaign.”

The Collection has been properly secured and stored by the Town during the final construction phase of the Library and Cultural Centre in eager anticipation of the Official Opening planned early in the New Year.

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Post Tropical Storm Sandy Passes

Halton Hills (Georgetown) Ontario – Environment Canada and Emergency Management Ontario are advising that Hurricane Sandy has passed and removed the warning for our area.


Environment Canada has issued the following statement for southern Ontario, “Bands of moderate rain have ended in most of Southern Ontario. However, Southern Ontario can expect periods of light rain on Wednesday.
Halton Hills experienced both high winds and periods of rain Monday evening and into Tuesday morning but no major incidents were reported. The fire department responded to only one weather related call, Public Works responded to 10 responses to clear fallen branches while Halton Hills Hydro responded to numerous calls for service. As of 6 A.M. Tuesday morning Halton Hills Hydro reported that any areas with power outages had been restored. Conservation Halton and Credit Valley Conservation have issued no new advisories.

Mayor Rick Bonnette would like to thank all our citizens for taking the passing storm seriously and taking appropriate action to ensure their safety but would also like to thank Town staff who prepared and worked through the storm. Emergency preparedness is important to the Town of Halton Hills and should be to every member of our community. The Town and its Regional partners has developed a Personal Emergency Preparedness Guide available on our website at http://www.haltonhills.ca/fire/pdf/emergPrepareGuide2007.pdf . If you have not already done so please take the time to review its contents so you are prepared for any future emergency.”

Preparing for the Potential Impacts of Hurricane Sandy

Halton Hills (Georgetown) Ontario – Environment Canada and Emergency Management Ontario is advising Hurricane Sandy is currently moving northeastward along the American Atlantic seaboard and expected to turn northwest later today making landfall in an area near New Jersey with the potential to also impact southern Ontario. Emergency Management Ontario is recommending that residents of Southern Ontario which includes Halton Hills prepare for the hurricane’s potential impacts which may include high winds, heavy rainfall with possible flooding, road closures and power outages.


Environment Canada has issued the following warning for Halton Hills, “Severe winds of 60 gusting up to 100 km/h beginning this evening. This is a warning that potentially hazardous winds are expected in these regions. Monitor weather conditions and listen for updated statements. Hurricane Sandy is forecast to track from the Atlantic Ocean into the New Jersey shoreline this evening as it transitions into a powerful post-tropical storm. Winds will increase out of the north to northeast today at 40 gusting to 60 km/h in most areas. They will intensify further this evening to 60 gusting at times to 100 km/h accompanied by heavier bands of rain as Sandy begins to move across Pennsylvania. Winds may be even stronger in the Niagara and Sarnia regions where gusts over 100 km/h are possible. They may also gust a little stronger over higher terrain. Winds will begin to ease below warning criteria on Tuesday morning. Sporadic power outages are quite likely across the warned regions due to falling limbs and the odd toppled tree taking out hydro lines

Chief Marshall advises that, “Town of Halton Hills is in a heightened state of awareness and has been monitoring the approaching storm over the past weekend. Town Emergency Preparedness staff has been following Environment Canada, Emergency Management Ontario, local conservation authorities and multiple media resources to stay abreast of information regarding the storms travel and impacts.”

The approaching storm will make streams and banks slippery and dangerous and extreme caution should be used near the local watercourses. Latest reports from Conservation Halton indicate that, “The rainfall over the weekend has resulted in high soil moisture conditions and runoff potential is now elevated, however stream flows remain below bankfull at this time. The forecasted rainfall is anticipated to increase flows to near bankfull conditions over the evening and into Tuesday and widespread flooding is not anticipated based on current forecast amounts. Conservation Halton reservoir levels are low and are functioning with large amounts of storage capacity available.” As of this morning ,Credit Valley Conservation has issued the following statement: “Water levels are currently at or near bankfull from the rain that fell since Friday. With the grounds already saturated, the predicted precipitation will result in increased water levels throughout the watershed. Flooding of low lying areas may occur. As well, areas along the Lake Ontario Shoreline may see an increased potential for flooding and erosion. Areas adjacent to watercourses, especially near culverts and intake structures, may become dangerous because of the high flows and should be avoided.” Both conservation agencies will advise as conditions change.

Halton Hills Hydro is prepared for the impending storm. Art Skidmore President and CEO of the Utility said “Our crews will be ready to respond to any power outages the storm may cause”. The Utility will have additional customer service staff available to answer customer calls and have stand by contractor crews for tree removal or power line repair if required. If you experience an outage please call our office at 519-853-3701.
There are many preparations that citizens can take to minimize damage from the storm and protect their families. They include:

o Clear all eaves troughs, downspouts and swales to direct water away from your home

o Clear roadway storm drains and culverts from accumulations of leaves and brush

o Objects that can be blown away such as garbage lids, patio furniture and Halloween decorations should be removed or brought inside

o Trim any loose tree branches

o Retrieve your Emergency Survival Kit. If you do not have an Emergency Survival Kit you need to prepare one today. Information can be found on the Town’s website at http://www.haltonhills.ca/fire/pdf/emergPrepareGuide2007.pdf

o In the event of power loss, ensure you have fresh batteries for flashlights and radios. If you have a generator make sure it is fueled up.

o Most home phones need electricity to operate so ensure your cell phone is fully charged

o Have at least a 72 hour supply of water, food, clothing, blankets, and medication

o In case ATM machines are down due to lack of power, have a supply of cash available

o If winds become extremely high take shelter in the basement storm cellar or closet under the stairs. If these are not available sit under a large sturdy piece of furniture.

o Do not use 911 unless it is a genuine emergency

o Check on the elderly and disabled neighbours. If you need assistance yourself contact a neighbour.

o Do not use charcoal, gas barbecues or home generators inside. They give off deadly carbon monoxide.

Chief Marshall adds: “This system is massive in terms of the area of land it is affecting and it is impossible to accurately predict the impact it may have on Halton Hills. Given its intensity and potential to generate rainfall, high winds and other warnings mentioned in this advisory, we should take these warnings seriously and heed the advice of experts. Let’s all work together to deal with the potential impacts of this unusual storm. Halton Hills staff will continue to monitor the storm and keep you up to date with information on this storm system. Watch our website for further updates. Should you have a non-fire related issue please call 905 873-2600.”

Mayor Rick Bonnette urges citizens to, “Listen to radio and television for the latest updates on this storm and follow any instructions from authorities. At this time there are no immediate instructions or directives to citizens, but Town staff will continue to monitor the storm and ensure Town resources are prepared should any need arise, but everyone should be ready to take care of themselves and their families too. Please take heed of the emergency preparedness tips listed above get your copy of the Personal Emergency Preparedness Guide at http://www.haltonhills.ca/fire/pdf/emergPrepareGuide2007.pdf .



For further information please contact:



Harry Olivieri

Deputy Chief Prevention and Public Education

Halton Hills Fire Department

905-873-2601 Ext. 2102

Email: harryo@haltonhills.ca

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Metrolinx fulfills its commitment to bring GO Trains to Acton

TORONTO – Metrolinx is moving forward on its plans for a new Acton GO Station.


With a land lease agreement with the Town of Halton Hills, Metrolinx is beginning construction of a new GO station in Acton this month, with construction to continue into 2013.

“We are pleased to bring GO rail service to Acton and provide additional options for travellers in this very busy corridor,” said Gary McNeil, GO Transit President. “With the addition of this new station, we are making it easier for residents to choose to leave their cars at home and use GO Transit.”

The additional stop along the Kitchener line (formerly GO’s Georgetown line) also helps to meet the demand for expanded and more frequent service in the region. This new stop provides a connection between Acton and downtown Toronto, but also supports commuters travelling between Acton and the Georgetown and Brampton areas.

“Investing in a new GO station for Acton will mean better access to public transit and increased services for commuters,” said Bob Chiarelli, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “The McGuinty government has continually supported public transit to help take cars off the road, keep our air clean and contribute to a better quality of life for Ontario families."

Acton GO Station will be served by two morning and two evening trips on GO’s Kitchener line. Schedules will be available at gotransit.com later this year. Fifty parking spaces will be provided with the opening of the station, with an additional 60 spaces to be added after service begins. In total, GO expects to be able to provide approximately 110 parking spaces for GO customers.

“This is great news for Acton and area residents,” said Town of Halton Hills Mayor Rick Bonnette. “The addition of this service in our area gives commuters and students in our area a public transit choice for traveling to work or school. We are very excited for the restoration of train service to Acton after an absence of nearly 20 years.”

The new station will provide an enjoyable and comfortable travel experience through its design, which will include platform lighting, CCTV and public announcement system, an accessible mini platform, designated waiting areas and two heated platform shelters.

For more information on GO services, the public can call 416.869.3200, 1.888.GET ON GO (438.6646), 1.800.387.3652 TTY, or visit gotransit.com.

GO Transit is the Province of Ontario's interregional public transit system linking Toronto with the surrounding regions of the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA). GO carries about 62 million passengers a year in an extensive network of train and bus services that spans over 10,000 square kilometres. GO Transit is a division of Metrolinx, an agency of the Province of Ontario. Follow GO on Twitter and Facebook.

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For further information:

Vanessa Thomas Mark Ostler

Media Relations Media Relations

(416) 874-5974 (416) 874-5975

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Too Hot? – Town of Halton Hills has Cooling Centres

The Town of Halton Hills wishes to remind residents that in the event the Region of Halton issues a “Heat Alert” or if you are suffering from the heat, the Town has designated cooling centres throughout Halton Hills for your relief. Please see attached for details.

“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 periods of hot weather conditions, particularly when humidity levels are high, the body works extra hard just to maintain a normal temperature. Some medical conditions that can result from exposure to high temperatures include:

Heat Cramps
These are painful spasms usually in the leg and stomach muscles and usually accompanied by heavy sweating. They can be alleviated by moving to a cooler place and lightly massaging and stretching the affected muscles. People experiencing heat cramps should also sip up to half a glass of cool water every 15 minutes.

Heat Exhaustion
During heat exhaustion, a person may be sweating heavily, but their skin may be cool, pale or flushed. Other symptoms are a weak pulse, fainting, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, exhaustion and headaches. Body temperature may be normal but it will likely rise. People suffering from heat exhaustion should lie down in a cool place, loosen or remove clothing and put on cool wet clothes. They should sip water slowly, about half a glass every 15 minutes. Water should be discontinued if they are nauseated. They should seek immediate medical attention if vomiting occurs.

Heat Stroke (also called Sun Stroke)
This is a severe medical. Body temperature is high (103° F or 39.4° C) as opposed to normal body temperature of 98.5° F or 37° C, the pulse is strong and rapid, and breathing is shallow and rapid. The person suffering heat stroke may be experiencing throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, have red, hot and dry skin (not sweating), and may become unconscious. This person should be taken to a hospital as quickly as possible. Delay can be fatal. En route, keep the person as cool as possible by removing clothing and sponging with cool water.

Heat can also aggravate other conditions such as:

• Heart disease, especially high blood pressure

• Kidney disorders

• Psychiatric disorders

During a heat wave, everyone is at risk, but some groups are more vulnerable than others. Those most at risk include older adults (65+), infants and young children, and the chronically ill, including people with asthma.

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, including gardening and lawn maintenance

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

• The temperature inside of a car is even higher than the temperatures outside. Never leave children, older adults or pets unattended in a car, even for a short period of time

If you experience symptoms of heat-induced illness, such as cramping in your arms, legs or stomach, rapid breathing, weakness or fainting, headache and/or confusion, seek medical attention right away. Also, check with your pharmacist to see if your medication has any side effects during extreme heat.
During a heat alert, please take a moment to call or visit family and neighbours who may be at risk. We need to ensure the safety of all residents, particularly those who are most vulnerable to the extreme weather.

TOWN OF HALTON HILLS – COOLING CETNRES

Residents who do not have air conditioning can find relief in Town facilities, such as recreation centres or either branch of the Halton Hills Public Library. During periods of declared heat alert, these facilities will be open during their standard business hours as places of refuge for persons to seek relief from the heat. Please call the facility for their operating hours:

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) – 224 Maple Avenue, 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)

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

9th Annual Spring Into Motion Race

The 9th Annual Spring Into Motion 5KM Race and 1KM Kids Fun Run will take place on Sunday April 15th, 2012 at 9:00 AM at the Gellert Community Centre.

The Spring into Motion fun run is in support of Canadian Tire Jumpstart, Halton Hills Chapter (CTJS).

Canadian Tire Jumpstart is a community-based charitable program that helps kids in financial need participate in organized sports and recreation. Since 2005, the Halton Hills CTJS Chapter has been committed to helping kids in our community get active. They have helped close to 500 children enjoy recreation and sport programs that they otherwise could not afford to participate in.

Register for the race at Feet In Motion or online at: www.onlinregistrations.ca to support children in Halton Hills.

To find out more about Canadian Tire Jumpstart, please visit: www.canadiantire.ca/jumpstart.

Thursday, March 15, 2012

2011 Citizen of the Year Award - Laurent Thibault

Congratulations to Laurent Thibault who was named Georgetown’s 2011 Citizen of the Year. Laurent has volunteered on countless projects and committees within the Town of Halton Hills. He is an inspiration to all of us!