SUSO Skate Opens at Last

After weeks of anticipation and a few permit headaches, the roller rink at Mapleview Shopping Centre is finally open.

SUSO Skate Co. officially opened its pop-up rink Saturday inside the former Decathlon space at the mall. The opening had been delayed while the company waited for final city approvals, something the business said cost them bookings during the busy March break period.

The Toronto company is known for turning empty storefronts into colourful roller rinks with music, lights and themed skate nights.

Since launching in 2021, SUSO says more than 100,000 people have visited its pop-up skating events across the GTA. This Burlington location will run several days a week with sessions for all ages.

Opening announcement. 👇

There’s a bit more clarity now around Burlington’s attempt to buy the Millcroft Golf Club.

City council had quietly authorized staff to negotiate a possible purchase of parts of the golf course that are not already approved for redevelopment. The idea was to offer about $15 million.

But according to the city, the talks ended almost immediately because the owner wasn’t interested in selling.

The situation became public after councillor Angelo Bentivegna and Mayor Marianne Meed Ward mentioned the potential deal in social media posts that were later removed after concerns about breaking solicitor-client privilege.

Council has since voted to release limited details confirming the city did explore the idea, but with the owner unwilling to sell, the proposal went no further.

Dozens of Ward 6 residents filled the Alton Community Centre this week looking for answers on several local issues.

Speeding e-scooters and e-bikes quickly became one of the biggest talking points. Many residents said they’re seeing them on neighbourhood streets and sidewalks. Mayor Marianne Meed Ward told the crowd scooters are not allowed on city roads and that the city’s current pilot program is limited to the Centennial Trail.

Millcroft Golf Course was another hot topic. Residents asked about the city’s recent attempt to buy part of the property, with the mayor explaining the plan was to purchase the portion that hasn’t already been approved for redevelopment.

Traffic in Alton Village also came up repeatedly. Some residents say school drop-offs and pickups are creating major congestion near several nearby schools, sometimes making it difficult just to cross Thomas Alton Boulevard.

After the meeting wrapped up, the mayor and councillor stayed behind to continue taking questions from residents.

Maple syrup season is here, and the Burlington Food Bank is hoping residents might share a little of that sweetness.

The organization is inviting people to donate bottles of maple syrup so families facing food insecurity can still enjoy a classic seasonal treat.

While many households look forward to pancakes and maple syrup this time of year, it’s often an item that doesn’t make it into tight grocery budgets.

Donations can be dropped off at the Burlington Food Bank at 1254 Plains Rd. E. during regular hours, or at the Wednesday drive-through drop-off at St. Matthew on-the-Plains on Plains Road East.

Flags in Burlington were lowered to half-staff on Friday to honour Bruce Climie Kerr, a Second World War veteran and longtime resident who passed away Feb. 13 at the age of 100.

Kerr served in the Royal Canadian Air Force as a tail gunner on both Halifax and Lancaster bombers, reaching the rank of Flight Sergeant.

After the war, he built his life in Burlington, working as an electrician and helping found Aldershot Presbyterian Church.

He was married to his wife Ethel for 66 years and was the father of James and Brian, with a large family around him.

Monday, March 16
🌧️ Rainy & windy
High: 12°C | Low: -8°C

Tuesday, March 17
❄️ Snow showers
High: -4°C | Low: -8°C

Wednesday, March 18
⛅ Cloudy breaks
High: 0°C | Low: -7°C