Brant recognized for continuity in data collection for the fifth straight year

By Casandra Turnbull

Make those five consecutive years

Once again, the County of Brant was recognized for its outstanding efforts in data continuity, according to the World Council on City Data

Patricia McCarney, President and CEO of World Council on City Data (WCCD) presented the Platinum Certification Award during Tuesday’s Administration and Operations Committee meeting The County was rewarded the Platinum Certification in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022. The certification recognizes Brant for its strong data management records, which helps to drive planning and governance for a more sustainable and prosperous future.

Brant is among more than 100 cities across 40 countries that compile and submit data to the World Council on City Data (WCCD), an organization that highlights the efforts of cities and municipalities who meet certain indicators that define smart, resilient cities and offer its residents a high quality of life and services.

During last year’s presentation, McCarney noted it’s quite rare to receive the recognition for four consecutive years and if Brant can accumulate a fifth year of data, it will really help to drive the community forecast well into the next decade to help with economic development, infrastructure investment, internal and global benchmarking and strategic planning. Brant has accumulated that important fifth year and that was celebrated this week. Scoring for this recognition is based on 252 key indicators outlined in 19 different themes that range fromenvironmental, governance, recreation, safety, sport and culture, telecommunications, transportation, urban planning and agricultural and food security, to name a few.

The WCCD team of professionals spearheaded the development and implementation of three international standards on city data, which have been published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in Geneva These standards, referred to as the WCCD ISO 37120 Series on City Data, encompass ISO

37120 (Indicators for Sustainable Cities), ISO 37122 (Indicators for Smart Cities), and ISO 37123 (Indicators for Resilient Cities). ISO 37120, an internationally recognized standard, serves as a comprehensive measurement tool for evaluating the performance and quality of life in cities and municipalities.

“The County of Brant is very proud to receive the highest level of excellence from the World Council of City Data Collection for the fifth year in a row – big thanks to our staff for all the hard work,” said Mayor David Bailey.

Out with the cold and in with the new

Under the Hood with Dave & Karel

Welcome back to “Under the Hood” with Dave and Karel

In this column, we’re driving into the world of automotive maintenance and insider tips with expert advice straight from the professionals

Meet Karel, a seasoned shop owner with decades experience and Dave a meticulous service manager who knows cars inside and out.

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast looking to tackle your next project or simply want to stay informed about your vehicle’s care, each month as we share practical tips, from under the hood

From routine maintenance and keeping your car up to date with the latest industry trends, we’re here to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to keep your ride running smoothly So buckle up and get ready to rev up your automotive IQ with Karel and Dave in “Under the Hood”!

Dave and Karel agree that the first step to a successful spring cleanup is clearing out the clutter accumulated during winter hibernation. From old receipts to discarded snack wrappers, it’s time to bid farewell to the remnants of past journeys and create a clean slate for the season ahead.

Dave and Karel, automotive veterans of the spring-cleaning rituals, share their expert tips for sprucing up your vehicle and getting it in top shape for summer adventures.

With clutter out of the way, it’s time to confront the aftermath of winter weather Salt, grime, and road debris have likely taken their toll on your vehicle’s exterior, leaving behind a dull and dingy appearance Dave recommends a thorough wash using a quality car shampoo and a soft sponge to remove dirt and grime without scratching the surface.

While a basic wash will do wonders for your car’s exterior, Karel emphasizes the importance of paying attention to the details

Take the time to clean the nooks and crannies, from door jambs to wheel wells, to ensure that every inch of your vehicle is sparkling clean.

As for the interior, Dave, and Karel advocate for a deep clean to rid your car of winter’s lingering mess Vacuum carpets and some upholstery cleaner to remove dirt and debris, along with the use of some gentle dashboard cleaner or leather wipes to remove any stains or spills and to protect the materials inside your vehicle.

To give your vehicle that extra sparkle and protection, Karel suggests applying a coat of wax or sealant to the exterior. Not only will this help protect your car’s paint from the elements, but it will also give it a glossy finish that’s sure to turn heads on the road.

Spring cleanup is also the perfect time to perform some basic maintenance checks on your vehicle. Dave recommends checking fluid levels, inspecting belts and hoses for signs of wear, and ensuring that your tires are properly inflated and in good condition.

As you bid farewell to winter and welcome the arrival of spring, Dave and Karel’s guide to spring cleanup for your vehicle offers a roadmap to reviving your ride and preparing it for the adventures that lie ahead. By following their expert tips and taking the time to show your car some TLC, you’ll enjoy a cleaner, shinier, and more enjoyable driving experience in the season ahead.

Exuberance and greetings of Eid Mubarak filled the air at Syl Apps Centre in Paris last week

Submitted by Umair Muhammad

On Wednesday April 10th 2024, the Muslim community of Brant gathered together to celebrate Eid ul Fitr at Syl Apps community center hosted by Masjid Bilal & Community Center.

Eid ul Fitr, also known as the Festival of Breaking the Fast, holds immense significance for Muslims worldwide as it marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting and spiritual reflection. The day is celebrated with prayers, feasting, and acts of charity, symbolizing gratitude, forgiveness, and compassion. The Syl Apps Community Center witnessed a large gathering of community members who congregated for the Eid prayer, led by the local imam (religious leader).

Following the prayer, the atmosphere transformed into a scene of sheer delight as hugs, smiles, and the exchange of heartfelt greetings of "Eid Mubarak" (Happy Eid) filled the air. The diversity of the Brant community was on full display, with people from various cultural backgrounds coming together in harmony.

Behind the scenes, the seamless execution of the event owed much to the collaborative efforts of volunteers from Masjid Bilal and the Syl Apps staff Their dedication and meticulous planning ensured that the celebration unfolded flawlessly, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who attended.

As the second year of hosting this event draws to a close, the Eid ul Fitr celebration at the Syl Apps Community Center stands as a shining example of growth, unity, and community spirit It is a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of Brant's Muslim community, and a reminder of the enduring values of compassion, inclusivity, and togetherness that continue to thrive year after year.