Bollywood virtual trivia nights are coming soon to Brampton

Calling all Bollywood fans!

If you are itching to demonstrate how knowledgeable you are about Bollywood movies, songs and celebrities, then Brampton Library is putting on a virtual event just for you. 

The library will be hosting two Bollywood- themed trivia nights on July 21 and August 25.

From 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., even the most hardcore fans of Bollywood will have their knowledge tested.

Are you ready to put your knowledge to the test? 

All residents have to do is sign up for the weeks they want to participate on Eventbrite. At the time of the event, click the access link sent in the event reminder email. It is recommended to use two devices, one for viewing the Webex screen and the other for answering questions on Kahoot. Residents can join the program 10 minutes earlier if they have any concerns about setting up their device(s).

If residents have any questions, they are encouraged to email events@bramptonlibrary.ca/

Will you be putting your Bollywood knowledge to the test? 

Brampton Library to host virtual trivia nights every week of summer

Calling all trivia lovers!

If you love all things trivia and are itching to demonstrate how knowledgeable you are about random worldly facts, then Brampton Library is putting on a virtual event just for you. 

The library will be hosting themed trivia nights each Thursday from June to September.

From 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., even the most hardcore fans of trivia will have their knowledge tested.

Are you ready to put your knowledge to the test? 

All residents have to do is sign up for the weeks they want to participate on Eventbrite. At the time of the event, click the access link sent in the event reminder email. It is recommended to use two devices, one for viewing the Webex screen and the other for answering questions on Kahoot. Residents can join the program 10 minutes earlier if they have any concerns about setting up their device(s).

Brampton Library will also be live streaming the game on their Facebook Page for those who are unable to register but still want to join in on the Kahoot game. 

Here is a list of the Trivia schedule: 

June 18 – Movie Trivia: General Knowledge, Hollywood Classics & Harry Potter Trivia

June 25 – Netflix and Your Favourite TV Shows

July 2 – Music Trivia: Canadian Artists, Instrumental Knowledge and Musicals

July 9 – Sports Trivia: Football, Basketball & Soccer

July 16 – Pop Culture Trivia: Superheroes, Fashion & Modern Slang

July 23 – Gold Medal Trivia (Olympics)

July 30 – School Subjects Trivia: Astronomy, Art & English

August 6 – Hollywood vs. Bollywood vs. Hollywood North

August 13 – Sitcom-o-Rama (Friends, The Office and The Simpsons)

August 20 – Chart-Topping Music Trivia

August 27 – Sports with Sticks Trivia: Baseball, Tennis & Hockey

September 3 – Some like it Hot (Cooking Trivia)

Will you be joining in on the game? 

A famous Filipino fried chicken chain is opening this fall in Brampton

Jollibee/ Facebook

Get ready, Brampton! A famous fast-food restaurant will be opening a new location in our city come fall.

Jollibee, the wildly popular Filipino fried chicken chain, is opening up at Bramalea City Centre near the main entrance.

The construction, undertaken by BUILD IT By Design, began on Monday, June 8 and is expected to be completed in September.

Jollibee began as a two-branch ice cream parlour in 1975 and later explored a hamburger concept. Today, they have over 1,000 restaurants worldwide from the Philippines to Brunei, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and the U.S. Their most popular menu items include hamburgers, crispy chicken, spaghetti and more.

The chain already has locations across the GTA including, Mississauga, Scarborough, Thornhill and Toronto.

Watch out for the new store opening in Brampton as Jollibee continues on its mission of “spreading the joy of eating to everyone.”

COVID-19 pandemic affecting house prices in Brampton

According to the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) and Nanos Research, the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the real estate market as well as consumer perceptions.

Research shows that nearly six in 10 Ontarians active in the real estate market still believe that buying a home today – even during the COVID-19 pandemic – remains a very good (19%) or good (37%) investment. Only one in 10 Ontarians think it is a poor (8%) or very poor (3%) investment.

This has been the case in Brampton where 460 homes were sold in May, making a striking 92 per cent increase since April (Zoocasa). In fact, new listings rose by 50 per cent month-over-month to 838.

Zoocasa says the average home price in May was $792,961. A breakdown shows that condo apartments were sold at an average of $450,560, a 13 per cent annual increase. The average price of a semi-detached property was $720,513—up 8 per cent and the average price for detached properties was $902,389, a 7 per cent increase.

“We have historically had a strong real estate market here in Ontario,” says OREA President Sean Morrison. “This new data underscores the important role real estate can play in Ontario’s economic recovery as we move towards a post-COVID-19 world.”

However, they note that COVID-19 is impacting what buyers look for in their next home. 

One in 4 buyers has now shifted their preferences when searching for their next home, specifically when it comes to a bigger property with more space/amenities (28%) and more outdoor space (25%) as a result of physical distancing measures. 

Just over four-in-10 Ontarians say they are open (10%) or somewhat open (32%) to purchasing a home if they could only view it virtually using online tools, half of those open or somewhat open are between the ages of 18 to 34. More than 8 in 10 say it would be important or somewhat important for them to use a REALTOR to help facilitate the purchase.

Only one in three Ontarians say they are not at all open to buying a home sight unseen.

“Consumers are adapting during this extraordinary time, and their willingness to embrace new tools tells us that the Canadian dream of homeownership remains strong, even during the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Morrison.

What are your thoughts on buying a home during this pandemic? 

Brampton council takes historic step against anti-Black racism

As the protests against anti-Black racism continue, Brampton Council has declared anti-Black racism an emergency and has launched the city’s first-ever Black African and Caribbean Social, Cultural and Economic Empowerment and Anti-Black Racism Unit.

Council members pledged to address systemic discrimination and take meaningful action against anti-Black racism alongside Brampton’s diverse Black African and Caribbean diaspora. This unit will establish priorities and an action plan that eradicates systemic anti-Black racism and uplifts the social, cultural, and economic position of the black community.

“It is not enough for us to say we are anti-racist, we must demonstrate it through meaningful action that creates real outcomes that uplift and empower our Black African and Caribbean communities. The creation of this unit and subsequent action plan is an important first step in moving towards true equality and justice, not just in our city, but beyond its borders too,” says Mayor Patrick Brown.

Ephraim Mwaura, president of the Kenyan Canadian Association says, ”this motion exemplifies the spirit of commitment by the city leadership in eradicating systemic anti-black racism and ought to be a benchmark for other cities across the country. Kenyan Canadian Association looks forward to working with the city on the implementation and continuous efforts on improving social, cultural, and economic empowerment not only for resident Black Africans but also newcomers to our great country.”

If residents are interested in being involved as the city develops the Anti-Black Racism Unit, they can contact AntiBlackRacismUnit@brampton.ca. There will also be opportunities for the community to engage and share their voice throughout the process.

“The message is clear and unambiguous. Black lives matter and systemic racism will be confronted by all levels of the City of Brampton. While I am proud to be a member of a city council that took decisive and historic action, the work has just begun,” says Charmaine Williams, city councillor.

According to the city, the Black African and Caribbean community represents the second-largest group of visible minorities in the city with a growing population of more than 80,000 residents.

Peel Police investigating after paramedics’ narcotics pouch goes missing

Peel Paramedics are asking for help to locate a missing narcotics pouch.

On June 13, the paramedic crew was working in Caledon when the black locked zippered pouch containing controlled narcotics went missing.

The drugs, which are used to treat patients during medical emergencies, are said to be extremely dangerous and even fatal if taken without medical supervision.

The Peel Police and OPP are investigating the incident.

If a member of the public finds the missing pouch, they are asked to refrain from opening it and to immediately call Peel Police at 905-453-3311 or Crime Stoppers at 1-888-222-TIPS (8477).

Brampton just received $18 million to protect residents amid pandemic

City of Brampton

The Canadian government just provided Brampton over $18 million to stabilize the city’s economy and ensure that the health and safety of all residents are protected during this pandemic.

Infrastructure and Communities Minister Catherine McKenna announced that Brampton will receive $18,008,741 through the federal Gas Tax Fund (GTF) for the 2020–21 fiscal year.

“Our government is making immediate investments in infrastructure that will play a vital role in helping municipalities and First Nations communities revive their economies and will improve the lives of Canadians,” says Minister of Infrastructure and Communities Catherine McKenna.

“This will put more than $800 million in the hands of over 600 communities and local roads boards to improve local infrastructures such as drinking water systems, public transit, high-speed broadband, and highways.”

While Ontario has received $816,507,200 through the federal fund. More than $813 million is being provided to 443 municipalities and 199 local road boards. The remaining funding is going to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario to administer the GTF.

“Year after year, the federal Gas Tax Fund provides stable and predictable funding for communities. Municipalities count on it and budget for it. Getting this year’s allocation out the door faster than anticipated makes sense as we manage the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Jamie McGarvey, president of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario.

The GTF provides communities with stable and flexible funding for their infrastructure priorities across a wide range of categories. The fund aims to enable communities to plan for their current and future needs and build or improve the infrastructure that will help them thrive through any circumstance.

However, the Canadian government still states that they must help support municipalities during this pandemic.

“More needs to be done, as Prime Minister Trudeau has affirmed. Ontario stands ready to work with the federal government to ensure that our municipalities are well-positioned to play their critical role in Canada’s economic recovery,” says Minister of Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Steve Clark.

Brampton restaurants and bars may look very different after COVID-19 pandemic

Downtown Brampton/ Twitter

The city has hopes to support local residents and business owners throughout this tough time.

They have just announced that they will allow local restaurants and bars to expand their outdoor spaces when they reopen.

Like many residents, Mayor Patrick Brown states that he is excited about the reopening of local restaurants.

“My family has been enjoying our local restaurants every Takeout Wednesday and I am very much looking forward to dining in outdoors and continuing to support local once it is permitted and safe to do so,” says Mayor Patrick Brown.

Which is why last week, Brampton City Council approved plans to support local restaurants and bars as they prepare for their eventual reopening. At this time, the Ontario Government has not permitted restaurants, bars and other establishments in the Region of Peel to reopen.

Regional Councillor Pat Fortini brought forward a motion requesting that local restaurants and bars be allowed to expand outdoor spaces to spur business recovery, after speaking with local restaurants Jack Astor’s Bar and Grill and Oscar’s Roadhouse Bar and Grill. The motion was passed unanimously.

“We have heard firsthand from our local restaurants how hard they’ve been hit as a result of COVID-19. As work continues on our gradual reopening, we will look at all avenues to help support our local businesses’ full and safe recovery,” says Gurpreet Dhillon, regional councillor and chair of Economic Development and Culture.

“Allowing businesses to plan for these changes to their outdoor spaces now, will help ensure they are ready to go when we receive the green light from the Province and Peel Public Health,” continues Regional Councillor and Vice-Chair of Economic Development and Culture Paul Vicente.

Local restaurants will be allowed to expand their patios onto sidewalks and private parking areas to accommodate more outdoor seating space. Outdoor patio and sidewalk permit fees will also be waived for 2020 to help local restaurants and small businesses in their recovery.

“As a long-time established and anchor business in downtown Brampton, we are so grateful for the support our community and the city have shown us during these very difficult times. These welcome changes announced by the city will allow us to accommodate more of our valued and missed customers in the safest way possible once we are allowed to reopen,” says Fanzorelli’s Restaurant & Wine Bar’s Owner Sabena Coulter. “I look forward to seeing everyone on our patio as soon as it’s safe to do so.”

According to the city, they will work closely with restaurants and businesses to help them expand low-risk operations while adhering to public health’s guidelines and physical distancing rules.

This plan is a part of the city’s “Support Local” campaign encouraging residents to explore, select and buy local during the COVID-19 pandemic and in the future.

Brampton Transit to give out 100,000 free masks soon

GE DIGITAL CAMERA

Brampton Transit will distribute 100,000 non-medical masks to its riders for free starting the week of June 22.

Non-medical masks will be distributed at Brampton Transit’s Bramalea, Brampton Gateway and Downtown Terminals while supplies last.

Following Peel Public Health and the Government of Ontario’s recommendation to wear masks on public transit, Brampton Transit riders are strongly recommended to wear non-medical masks on buses and at terminals.

“If you are a Brampton Transit rider, I urge you to acquire and wear a non-medical mask on buses and at terminals to take care of yourself and others, and follow Peel Public Health and the Government of Ontario’s guidelines on how to properly wear, fit, remove, and clean your non-medical mask for everyone’s health and safety,” says Mayor Patrick Brown.

Starting July 2, it will be mandatory for Brampton Transit riders and operators to wear non-medical masks when paying and boarding are reinstated.

Children under the age of two or those with disabilities or other medical conditions that prevent them from wearing a mask will not be required to wear one.

Riders should also carry their own disinfectants such as hand sanitizer or wipes, wash their hands often, practice physical distancing and cough or sneeze into their elbow.

Brampton Transit will also be disinfecting all hard surfaces, operator compartments and seats every 48 hours. According to the city, the majority of buses are currently sanitized every 24 hours while facilities and terminals that have hard surfaces are wiped down and sanitized daily.

“As the City of Brampton reopens and recovers from COVID-19, we are dedicated to providing healthy and safe transit service for our community. With guidance from Peel Public Health and the Government of Ontario, we are taking all necessary safety measures to get these masks into riders’ hands in a healthy and safe way,” says Chief Administrative Officer David Barrick.

This is a part of the first steps of the City of Brampton’s reopening and recovery plan.

Major updates to garbage and recycling rules in Brampton

Varcon Construction

There are new changes to waste management in Brampton during the COVID-19 pandemic.

There are also new measures of physical distancing and vehicle restrictions, which may cause delays. However, residents should only dispose of only what they need to during this emergency.

Peel’s Community Recycling Centres (CRCs) will allow visitors to drop off up to 100 kg of excess waste, once per day, with no fees; however, standard fees will apply to anything over the 100 kg limit. Residents must only pay using debit or credit due to health standards.

Visitors can also drop off scrap metal and blue box recyclables for free.

The CRC is also extending summer hours from 4:30 pm to 8:00 pm and has started at Fewster and Heart Lake CRCs on Thursdays only as well as Battleford and Brampton CRCs on Mondays only. At this time, reuse drop-off locations are closed and reusable goods will be put into the garbage and sent to landfills if they are brought to the CRC.

Since many residents are working on home renovation projects during this time, the CRCs want to remind them that ceramic, porcelain and other renovation material are not recyclable and should be brought to a CRC for disposal. Also, batteries are considered household hazardous waste and should also be taken to a CRC for safe disposal.

CRCs are not accepting tires, electronic waste, large appliances or bulky items until further notice.

Residents are also encouraged to visit peelregion.ca/waste/community-recycling-centres for all affected changes, operating hours and applicable standard fee amount.