 By Stefan Almgren
July 3rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Paying used to be simple. You’d hand over some cash, grab what you needed, and that was it. No names, no tracking, no digital history attached to you.
But now, most online payments come with strings attached. You’re asked for your name, your email, your bank details, and sometimes even a photo of your ID. A basic transaction often turns into a full-blown verification process.
 Prepaid cards. These simple tools are filling the space between real cash and the online world. For Canadians who don’t use a traditional bank account — or anyone who just values privacy — there aren’t many options left. Still, a few tools make it possible to spend without sharing your whole identity. One of the easiest? Prepaid cards. These simple tools are filling the space between real cash and the online world.
Prepaid Cards: The Digital Stand-In for Cash
Vanilla prepaid Visa or Mastercard cards are among the most accessible, privacy-friendly options available today. You can buy one with cash, use it online, and avoid ID checks in most cases. For example, being able to use a Vanilla Mastercard at gambling sites gives you a rare sense of transactional privacy online.
Here’s why they work:
| Feature |
Details |
| Buy with cash |
Available at most major retailers (Walmart, Circle K, etc.) |
| No ID needed |
No name or banking info required to activate |
| Accepted online |
Works like a regular credit card at many sites — including gambling sites |
| ⚠️ Deposit only |
Cannot be used for withdrawals |
If you’re looking to fund a gambling site without your bank flagging the transaction or asking for more documents, prepaid cards are often the easiest way to go. Just make sure the site accepts international cards — some don’t.
Crypto: Still Useful, But Not as Anonymous as You Think
Cryptocurrency used to be the top choice for anonymous online payments. But today, most major platforms require full KYC — Know Your Customer — before letting you buy or send coins. That doesn’t mean crypto is useless for privacy. But it does mean you need to be more careful about how you use it.
Where crypto still works well:
- When used with privacy-focused coins like Monero
- When purchased through crypto ATMs using cash
- When paired with prepaid cards on non-KYC exchanges or on-ramps
For most people, though, prepaid cards are still simpler. You don’t need to manage a wallet, worry about gas fees, or understand blockchain. You just pay, type in the card info, and move on.
Best Options Compared (No Bank Needed)
Here’s how prepaid cards stack up next to other common privacy-focused payment tools:
| Method |
Requires ID? |
Can Deposit? |
Can Withdraw? |
Best For |
| Vanilla Prepaid Card |
❌ No |
✅ Yes |
❌ No |
Simple, cash-based deposits |
| Crypto (via ATM) |
❌ No |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
More advanced, flexible use |
| Flexepin Vouchers |
❌ No |
✅ Yes |
❌ No |
Quick, anonymous deposits |
| Crypto (via exchange) |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
Higher limits, but not private |
How to Buy and Use a Prepaid Card
If you haven’t tried a prepaid card yet, here’s a clear look at what to do:
-
 There are scores of prepaid cards available. Plain Vanilla Visa or Master cards are good choices. Find a retailer
You go to a grocery store, pharmacy, or gas station. Most have a rack of prepaid cards near the checkout.
- Pick a card and amount
Choose a Vanilla Visa or Mastercard. Some have fixed values like $25 or $50, while others let you load your own amount, often up to $500.
- Pay with cash
To stay anonymous, it’s best to pay in cash. This keeps the transaction off your bank records.
- Keep your receipt
If the card doesn’t work or gets lost, your receipt may be the only proof you have.
- Activate if needed
Some cards are ready right away. Others ask you to call a number or go online to activate.
- Use online
Enter the card number, expiration date, and security code just like any credit or debit card.
That’s it. No apps, no accounts, no ID checks.
Other Prepaid Tools Worth Exploring
Vanilla cards are popular, but they’re not your only option. A few other prepaid options work just as well:
- Mastercard gift cards — Widely accepted online and work the same way as Vanilla
- American Express prepaid cards — Good for major retailers, though not always accepted at gambling sites
- Paysafecard — Lets you pay online using a code, no card or ID needed
- Flexepin — Sold in cash and used like a voucher for casino deposits and more
Each option has its own limits and fees, so be sure to read the details on the packaging before buying.
Why This Still Matters
Not everyone wants to give away their identity every time they spend money online. For some, it’s about privacy. For others, it’s about control.
If you:
- Don’t have a bank account
- Prefer to keep gambling or entertainment spending separate from your main finances
- Want to avoid sharing personal data on every transaction
Then tools like prepaid cards and crypto still give you room to breathe. You can spend without being watched, flagged, or profiled — and that kind of freedom is getting harder to find.
Private Payments Aren’t Gone — Just Harder to Find
 The digital economy is moving toward more tracking, more verification, and more connection between your money and your identity. The digital economy is moving toward more tracking, more verification, and more connection between your money and your identity. Almost every click and swipe leaves a mark. But prepaid cards offer something rare: a way to buy, fund, and move on without questions.
They aren’t perfect. You can’t withdraw money onto them. You have to find sites that accept them. And you need to keep track of your balance. But they still let you pay on your terms — especially in situations where privacy matters.
If that sounds like something you care about, it’s worth keeping a prepaid card on hand. In a world where even small purchases can be traced, this might be the closest thing to digital cash that still exists.
 By Gazette Staff
July 3rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Following up on that report earlier today about rising water levels in Rambo Creek – City Hall reports that the Rambo Creek Erosion Control Project between Victoria Avenue and Emerald Crescent, part of a 2020 City Wide Creek Erosion Assessment Study identified ongoing erosion along Rambo Creek between Victoria Avenue and Emerald Crescent, posing a risk to public infrastructure, utilities, and nearby private properties.
Project scope
 Rambo Creek is right behind the No Frills supermarket. On the west side of the creek, erosion has caused the channel to widen, bringing the top of the bank to within less than 1 meter of private infrastructure, including a parking area with a wooden fence and concrete barrier wall.
Several small stormwater outflows in the area are in poor condition, and runoff from the adjacent parking lot is also contributing to further erosion.
As part of this project, the City will complete restoration in this section of Rambo Creek.
The project will include creek bank stabilization, minor channel realignment of the low-flow channel, and additional measures to protect the surrounding area.
First edition of this news story
 By Eric Stern
July 3rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 Eric Stern and the BRAG organization did everything they could to get 2025 budget information earlier so that citizens could make comments and delegate. Here we go again. The City of Burlington plans to increase spending by 5.8% in the 2026 Budget
Keep 5.8% in mind. This is how the city is positioning the increase
“Burlington’s portion of the overall increase would be 2.98%”.
Let’s call this Burlington Speak math or BS math. Spending is increasing 5.8% but the “overall increase” is 2.98%, exactly how does BS math work?
Well, if you assume that the region won’t be increasing taxes, and the police won’t be increasing taxes, and the Board of Education won’t be increasing taxes, then the math works.
Have a look at this spreadsheet showing taxes for an average home in Burlington.
How likely is it that Halton won’t be increasing taxes, not likely at all, ditto for the police. The Ford government has held Education increases to zero for the last few years.
Here are some quotes from the city’s document on the city website.
“The Region’s 2025 Budget (Regional report FN-34-24) included a forecasted increase of 3% excluding police services and 4.3% including police services.”
What? The 2.98% overall increase is calculated assuming zero percent increases from the region and police, but the same document says to expect budget increases from the region and police!
“CPI rose 1.7% year-over-year in May, matching April’s increase.”
The city is increasing spending at over 3 times the rate of inflation.
“A 1.75% base funding increase is planned for Local Boards and Partnered Corporations in 2026 (Burlington Public Library, Burlington Museums, Art Gallery of Burlington, The Burlington Performing Arts Centre (BPAC), and Burlington Economic Development and Tourism).”
How is it that the libraries, museums, art galleries, etc., can manage with a 1.75% increase, but the city needs 5.8%?
The city will bombard us with a series of numbers. The other number you’ll hear is 4.4%. Halton hasn’t issued any guidance on its tax increase. The police have not issued a statement. But Burlington, for unknown reasons, has guessed that the Halton increase, including the police increase, will be 4.3%. In my opinion, when you mix this all together, you get a projected overall increase of 4.4%. Last year, these guesses were incorrect, and we ended up with a higher increase.
New homes and businesses, through property taxes, are expected to cover .75% of the budget increase.
Buckle up, this is the multi-year forecast for spending increases.
Do taxpayers deserve an explanation as to why we’ll hear all about the overall impact of the increase being 2.98% and next to nothing about the budget increasing by 5.8%?
References:
https://burlingtonpublishing.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=88865
https://burlingtonpublishing.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=88866
Eric Stern is a Burlington resident who was part of the Burlington Residents’ Action Group ( BRAG) that was recently dissolved. He is one of the leaders of Focus Burlington.
By Gazette Staff
July 3rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
“Quick note to say that your ongoing coverage is great!!! and I’m sure is very much appreciated by the Families of the Burlington Aquatic Devilrays.
 Emilie Cote, Director of Recreation, Community & Culture , chose to send the pool allocation matter to the Procurement people. This Burlington resident told us this morning that “this whole fiasco started in the Parks and Recreation sector (under Director Emile Cote) and was passed off to Procurement as it was thought/desired that an RFP would be in order.”
The Procurement Officer who handled the file is indeed on vacation. “I can also confirm that Mordeu is “on vacation” I attempted to contact her on Monday June 30th for some info/understanding of the need for a procurement process for something that has traditionally been a user/group time and access allotment to city facilities.
“This is touching many departments in City Hall…. and they are all fumbling the file.”
What should have gone further up the food chain was sent down to a level that understands procurement and followed standard procurement procedures.
We are noticing that those who provide information ask that their name not be used – we appear to live in a city where residents fear repercussions when they speak out.
By Gazette Staff
July 3rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 Rambo Creek runs behind the no Frills Plaza on Brant Street. Long terms plans call for a walking path to be created beside the crook and the No Frills supermarket to be moved closer to Brant Street. Some housing is in the developers’ plans, which they say are as much as a decade away. Residents are reporting extremely high and tremendously fast running brown murky water running through Rambo Creek right behind the No Frills plaza on Brant Street.
Something appears to have burst upstream.
Police are looking into the matter, and city hall has been advised.
 Whatever it is that is running through Rambo Creek, it would appear to be south of the diversion channel.
 By Pam Pitz
July 3rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 Pam Pitz PamPitz is a 73-year-old grandmother who has raised two children, has six grandchildren with three in BAD.
She has a clear understanding of the issue related to swimming pool allocation and sets out those views:
I have witnessed my oldest granddaughter in BAD during practices, meets and championships for over 8 years. I am quite a swimming enthusiast and while far from an expert, I have a great sense of what makes BAD and its swimmers unique. I understand kids and how “stability” impacts their sense of well-being, particularly as they approach their teen years and grow to young adults. Of course, there are emotions and feelings of distrust in this scenario.
 “No rules, policies or guidelines will ever replace good judgement and common sense.” However, I have been in the business world for over 50 years and remain an active director of a couple of significant organizations. I am pragmatic and like to make my arguments based on fact and a high degree of respect for all parties. I also pride myself as being someone who understands that common sense must prevail. One of the organizations I represent has a code of conduct that includes the statement: ” no rules, policies or guidelines will ever replace good judgement and common sense.” After all, if that wasn’t the case, we wouldn’t need people to make decisions. Whether decisions are being made in courts, businesses, or in one’s personal life, common sense and an understanding as to what a reasonable person would do in a particular set of circumstances is the underlying discipline. I trust this is an approach that city representatives embrace as well.
Here are some additional arguments in support of my view that this has been an unfair and unwarranted decision that must be revisited.
1) If there was a technical issue with documents that were created 40 years ago and have somehow been misplaced, with a simple investigation I found that BAD is a not-for-profit organization in good standing and aligned with respectful institutions like Swim Ontario and Swim Canada. You would think that an organization that operated within Burlington for 40 years, and is recognized as a strong member of the Canadian swim community, would have been given the benefit of the doubt and this technical matter brought to a satisfactory conclusion. Instead, a club that does not meet the City’s minimum requirements was given flexibility to prove 85% or more Burlington swimmers by September. This seems very much like a double standard.
2) Keeping the kids in mind, please understand they have: enormous pride in Burlington and BAD; love and respect their coaches; enjoy a real feeling of “family”; have grown up with each other; and, generally consider the experience precious. The intensity of their relationships with one another increases as they progress through the program. They don’t want to break from this kind of comfort and familiarity. Why should they? The BAD team has enjoyed a lot of competitive success and goodwill.
 The quality of the organization and its coaches produces winners 3) While GHAC will probably argue otherwise, from my observations and discussions with many members of competing clubs, GHAC has not achieved the respect and success that BAD enjoys. The quality of the organization and its coaches may be acceptable but that presents no advantage for BAD swimmers. Again, BAD can outline the backgrounds of their coaches, but suffice to say we have people that have reached National and Olympic levels and many have years of coaching experience. I might add that I have nothing against the kids who swim for GHAC – I wish them well. Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Milton and most cities have their own competitive clubs. I assume GHAC came about as there are several smaller communities in the Golden Horseshoe who cannot support their own club and/or may not have the necessary pools. Of course, more pool time is what GHAC wants. Unfortunately, their parents chose to live in Golden Horseshoe communities that may offer certain benefits but also less amenities. In our case, we chose Burlington which has some disadvantages including higher taxes but, in turn, amenities such pools.
4) How can any club work hard to develop competitive swimmers and fine young adults who are active in their community only to “have the rug swept out from under them” when the next contract falls due. That is what is happening here. No organization can proceed to the best of their ability and build the kind of reputation and success that BAD enjoys in the face of that kind of uncertainty. It takes time to build a successful swim club with years of dedication and hard work (from 6 or 7 years of age to young adults).
5) The application from GHAC should not have been entertained in the first place as they have a low number of Burlington swimmers. Even if they get to the the required number by September — what good is that? There is no benefit to BAD swimmers. How will you police it? Those numbers may be artificially increased given the feeling of helplessness our kids are currently experiencing, i.e. they may sign with GHAC in a panic. Most clubs ensure various age groups, or swimmers who have reached certain achievement levels, practice together. There are many reasons for this. The program is tailored to their ages and accomplishments. GHAC may say that they will leave their current swimmers in current pools and only have BAD swimmers in Burlington pools. That is simply not practical if one understands coaching limitations, the importance of learning from each other at various ages/levels, a sense of team, etc. It’s clear GHAC is looking for more pool time and our kids should not have to go anywhere outside of Burlington or have new recruits avoided simply because kids from out of town are displacing their opportunity. There is only so much space and pools like Centennial are particularly important for “long invested” senior swimmers.
6) The stress placed on our kids has weakened their sense of security and fairness. They have worked hard and believe in their organization. In this past week, I have witnessed tears, anger, confusion and capitulation. The older swimmers, in particular, have had their belief in fairness and trust in those who represent them at the City extremely damaged – as is the case for the parents and many BAD volunteers and supporters. We have had swimmers leave the club over this mess. While there may be a few considering GHAC out of fear or a belief that there is no alternative, most have gone to Milton or Oakville as they have no desire to endure this uncertainty or be forced into a club they don’t want to be part of.
 I heard from one City representative that the Mayor and Counsellors don’t get involved with procurement due to potential conflicts of interest. This is different than normal procurement. This is a club that has operated for 40 years as a not-for-profit and on top of this they have been active in the community. 7) I heard from one City representative that the Mayor and Counsellors don’t get involved with procurement due to potential conflicts of interest. This is different than normal procurement. This is a club that has operated for 40 years as a not-for-profit and on top of this they have been active in the community. I am sure the BAD representatives can outline their good work. Common sense tells me GHAC received preferential treatment (they didn’t quality in the first place) and whether there is a degree of culpability on both sides (City or BAD) doesn’t matter. The correct approach is to not seek blame. Rather, all parties should simply learn from it and the City should make the correction immediately. GHAC took a risk and it appears they tried to push themselves into Burlington to the detriment of our kids. Quite frankly, I think that is shameful. In their scramble to raise the number of Burlington kids, they are trying to solicit ours which is not consistent with the swim community’s normal protocol. We don’t poach from other clubs. In my mind, if city policies bring us to this kind of scenario, something must change and it will take the members of Council and the Mayor to do so. There has to be common sense and a better system of escalation before it gets to this stage and/or preference given to renewals of long time reliable organizations. We know that other clubs/cities understand this is a terrible precedent and have expressed their position in support of BAD. I can understand why they may feel threatened — if this can happen to BAD, it can happen to them? This has been a colossal waste of time and money for BAD and the City.
8) With regard to community involvement and representation: a) BAD carries a Burlington Aquatic Devilray’s banner wherever they go – not Golden Horseshoe Aquatic Club which provides little direct recognition b) our community efforts are within Burlington – not thinly spread across a range of communities knowing there is always limited time to devote to these kinds of activities, and c) meets are held in Burlington which brings families and supporters from across the country for the benefit of Burlington businesses as they seek accommodation, food and activities. Will this be the case with GHAC who is obviously conducting meets in places outside of Burlington today — one would think they must provide at least some degree of loyalty to other communities? It is quite clear that any pool time allotted to GHAC will be at the expense of lesser focus on Burlington.
I want to give you a greater understanding as to the sense of team and family that these kids enjoy and want to preserve. They feel a real sense of loyalty. As a grandparent, we usually aren’t involved in the day-to-day scheduling that my daughter and son-in-law manage with the administrative notices, payments, travel and time commitments, etc. I try to enjoy the kids and the sport from a distance although “it takes a village to raise a child”. With three of their four kids in BAD my husband and I often assist with the effort to get them to practices and meets. A couple of years ago, some members went to a swim camp n Spain and my husband and I joined the group. The kids got to meet International swimmers and observe how they trained. They were able to take in some tourist attractions as well. It was a valuable educational experience while building an even greater sense of team and family. During that time, we got a chance to chat with the Head Coach in a casual manner. He is usually a somewhat reserved and focused individual, but he told us about his greatest source of pride during his BAD leadership. I believe he said, four of his BAD swimmers went on to become doctors and others engineers and professional in various disciplines —and on and on. That is the essence of what is being taken away as you need that sense of family and long term involvement to achieve that kind of pride.
I respectfully ask that you consider these points. I am sure there are many more that will be made by BAD. Just look at the video that Halton News created about a BAD hosted meet at Nelson Pool the weekend before this controversy surfaced. My granddaughter was featured in the video — not planned but simply a swimmer who happened to be available for comment. Her and her friends remarks said it all. Unfortunately, the smile on her face has been wiped away.
Please help our Burlington kids!
 By Pepper Parr
July 3rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
When the city announced on the Friday before the long weekend that GHAC (Golden Horsehoe Aquatics Club) had been awarded the contract – the folks at BAD (Burlington Aquatics Devilrays) were close to frantic.
The media release explained the decision they made which included the following:
As part of the evaluation criteria, the RFP required all applicants to demonstrate that at least 85% of their registrants live in Burlington. This is to make sure that Burlington residents benefit directly from the pool time the City provides. GHAC met all the requirements of the proposal, including this residency threshold, and has been awarded the contract.
 Kimberly Calderbank, volunteer president of the Burlington Aquatic Devilrays – is fighting to keep her organization alive. When Kimberly Calderbank, volunteer president of BAD saw that statement she immediately reached out to Swim Canada, the regulatory body for competitive swimming in Ontario, for data on the BAD membership and the GHAC membership.
Swim Canada confirmed that
79% of the BAD membership lived in Burlington and
that 28% of the GHOC membership lived in Burlington.
Later the same day the city sent out a second media release (5:36 pm on a Friday before a long weekend)
The content of both media releases were identical except for the one paragraph related to membership levels.
In the second media release the city said:
As part of the RFP process bidders were required to demonstrate how their organizations will ensure 85% of participants are Burlington residents. The successful bidder – GHAC- demonstrated that it could fulfill this requirement upon service commencement in September 2025. Further, the successful bidder will be required to validate this requirement in September, and annually thereafter. This is to make sure that Burlington residents benefit directly from the pool time the City provides. GHAC met all the requirements of the proposal, including this residency threshold, and has been awarded the contract.
Saying that an organization could fulfill a membership requirement stands in contrast to an organization that has already met the requirement.
BAD has retained legal counsel.
 The 400 members of the Devilrays show that competitively they are winners – the city doesn’t seem to see them the same way. At a scheduled city council meeting, there is an item on the Confidential part of the meeting
Something that could have and should have been worked out at an administrative level is now in the hands of the lawyers.
 City CFO Craig Millar: Is this the level at which the pool allocation problem should have been resolved? Did the issue ever get to this level? The procurement staff involved in this matter are said to be away on vacation. They come under the supervision of the CFO Craig Millar, who is new to Burlington. The procurement people should have brought the CFO into the picture.
The Gazette reached out to a resident with years of experience dealing with RFP’s – Requests for proposals. Here is what he had to say about this situation:
On the Resident Priority part of the RFP – “Demonstrate how your organization will ensure a minimum of 85% of participants are Burlington residents.” Use of the word “will” means in the future, the requirement is not to have 85% now or at the time of submission. If the city did not have this wording, the incumbent vendor would be the only vendor that qualified, removing the competitive nature of the process.
In the requirement to produce documents: “”bids must include current and valid certificate of incorporation as a Non-Profit or Not-for-Profit organization.” Our expert asks: How did the Golden Horseshoe group comply if the form, as the Devilrays claim, does not exist?
“The contract will be for a First Term of three (3) years with two (2) optional extensions of one (1) year each based on the same terms and conditions and upon mutual agreement between the Vendor and City and contingent upon a sufficient budget and/or Council approval if applicable.” As suspected, the contract is for five years.
“The hourly pool time fee accepted pursuant to this RFP will include:
- The supervision of two (2) City of Burlington Lifeguards for indoor pools
- The supervision of three (3) City of Burlington Lifeguards for outdoor pools.”
Our expert suggests “This wording does make the RFP look like a pool rental agreement, not the purchase of something by the city that would fall under “procurement”.
“The Pool User must commit to a minimum of 2,000 pool rental hours annually at a rate of $110.00 per hour. This hourly rate will be adjusted each September based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) plus 1% for the duration of the agreement.”
Again from the expert: This works out to $220,000 – so the “winner” commits to buy $220,000 a year of pool time from the city.
My conclusion – this is a facilities rental agreement and should not be classified as procurement. Council can and should be involved in the decision-making.
By Eva Shultz
July 3rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 More shopping is being done on line – it is faster and offers far more choice. Digital commerce is evolving rapidly, and 2025 has become a landmark year for creators selling downloadable goods online. With the rise of new creator-focused tools and minimal-barrier platforms, it’s easier than ever to turn skills into scalable income. From digital planners and eBooks to coding templates and sound packs, global demand for instant, accessible content is exploding. The shift toward niche personalization and automation means sellers no longer need a massive audience — just the right platform and offer.
The Landscape of Modern Digital Marketplaces
Selling digital goods used to mean building a personal website and managing payments, updates, and distribution manually. In 2025, platforms like Etsy, Gumroad, Ko-fi, and Lemon Squeezy have completely transformed that model. While Etsy and Ko-fi handle product distribution and payments, some users prefer 1xBet download, enjoying a quick escape between managing digital sales. These marketplaces offer all-in-one solutions: storefronts, analytics, payment processing, customer segmentation, and tax automation.
Today, developers prefer systems that also work seamlessly on mobile devices. Many salespeople perform multiple tasks simultaneously, engaging in side activities, and those who follow sports or entertainment trends often choose mobile utilities.
Top Platforms for Digital Sales and What They Offer
Each marketplace offers unique features tailored to different creator types. Here’s a breakdown of how sellers are leveraging the most popular tools this year.
Leading platforms for digital goods in 2025:
- Etsy – Now integrated with AI tagging, it’s a go-to for digital planners, wall art, and niche printables.
- Gumroad – Best for indie creators offering eBooks, software, and video tutorials.
- Ko-fi – Ideal for creators building community-backed stores with memberships and donations.
- Lemon Squeezy – Geared toward SaaS, coders, and developers needing VAT-compliant billing worldwide.
 A platform that supports product hosting, offers secure payments, and enables upselling. Each of these platforms supports product hosting, offers secure payments, and enables upselling. According to a recent overview on Mediahuis, businesses can effectively combine digital and print advertising solutions to maximize their brand reach in Ireland. Lemon Squeezy, in particular, has become popular among software developers offering paid Notion templates, Figma UI kits, and productivity packs.
How Automation Tools Simplify Selling
Automation is the secret sauce behind most high-earning digital stores. It reduces manual work, increases conversions, and keeps customers engaged without extra effort from the seller.
Creators in 2025 use automation tools for:
- Email sequences after purchase to upsell bundles or request reviews
- Coupon codes triggered by cart abandonment
- Affiliate programs that allow other creators to promote your products
- Analytics dashboards to monitor product performance in real time
What makes this easier is platform integration. Gumroad connects with Zapier and ConvertKit, while Lemon Squeezy supports Stripe automation and tax handling — all without needing to code. As Lemon Squeezy handles tax automation, some creators unwind with 1xBet apk, blending productivity and leisure effortlessly. Meanwhile, sellers looking for mobile convenience can access their control panels along with other real-time tools.
Case Studies: Who’s Winning in 2025’s Digital Product Boom?
Let’s explore how different types of creators are thriving by using modern marketplaces and smart strategies.
- Isabella, a graphic designer, sells Canva templates on Etsy and earns $3,000/month passively.
- Daniel, a fitness coach, offers PDF meal plans and sells over 500 downloads monthly via Gumroad.
- Mateo, a software engineer, launched a productivity app using Lemon Squeezy’s subscription model and now earns recurring revenue from over 1,000 users.
- Lucía, a Spanish-language author, distributes short educational eBooks on Ko-fi with a pay-what-you-want model and a strong donor base.
 The digital advertising sector continues to thrive. The digital advertising sector continues to thrive, creating opportunities for innovative sellers. The Adworld website states that the Irish advertising market will grow to €1.53 billion in 2024, according to Core What unites these sellers is their ability to package niche knowledge into downloadable assets and position them on the right platform with minimal overhead.
Sell Smart, Not Hard
The digital product market in 2025 is a landscape full of potential for those who understand its tools. Whether you’re a designer, writer, coach, or coder, there’s room to build passive income and reach a global audience — without traditional retail friction.
Start with one platform, build your product library, automate the sales funnel, and test different offers. Whether you’re aiming for side income or a full-time digital business, the resources are available — and the smartest sellers are already scaling fast.
By Gazette Staff
July 3rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 The New Leaf Liberal movement is beginning to get out into the field and talk with people about the movement and its objectives which are to build the Ontario Liberal Party from the ground up.
They have meetings set up in Toronto and Ottawa.
Thursday, July 10th in Toronto, or Thursday, July 17th in Ottawa
Toronto Meetup
Thursday, July 10th, 7-9pm
Black Lab Brewery, Leslieville
Ottawa Meetup
Thursday, July 17th, 7-9pm
Brigid’s Well, Byward Market
There is a petition asking the Liberal Party to make some changes to the way they organize and run things.
Link to that petition is HERE.
There are currently 226 signatures on the petition.
 By Gazette Staff
July, 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Public Library announced the winners in the three categories: Poetry, Short Stories and Comic Books.
It’s no secret that Burlington has a wealth of writing talent. Our community is brimming with creativity and loves to celebrate it with others. Our annual Write Here Write Now writing contest confirms that writing truly is a lifelong passion in our city.
The contest ran from May 1 to May 31, and was open to everyone ages 10 and up who lives, works, or attends school in Burlington.
Competition was tough again this year, with 235 entries submitted across all categories for judging—a significant increase over the 150 entries in 2024. A panel of BPL staff reviewed all submissions and was amazed by the incredible talent displayed in every category.
Poetry
 Ages 10-12: Anxiety by Katherine de Vries
Ages 13-17: Everything Reminds Me of You by Daphne Lindsay
Ages 18+: Now You Can Breathe by Rachel Swiednicki
Short Stories
Ages 10-12: I Hear a Whisper by Ella Carmichael
Ages 13-17: Say Something, Not Nothing by Conor Gross
Ages 18+: Where Whispers Wake Up by Kriti Majumdar
Comics
Ages 10-12: Whisper the Ghost by Star Lucier
Ages 18+: Christine by Tammy Kim
 By Pepper Parr
July 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
After 59 days of hearings, the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) reviewing the Nelson Burlington quarry expansion application concluded its evidence phase on June 24, 2025; 58 days were dedicated to evidence presentation.
 The main issues addressed included impacts on water resources, the natural environment, cultural heritage, blasting and air quality
Due to the extensive volume of evidence, additional time was required for oral closing arguments, which are now scheduled for September 3-5, 2025, to accommodate the availability of counsel and the Tribunal, as well as the need to receive hearing transcripts.
Nelson’s written closing submissions are due by July 30, 2025, with responses from the City of Burlington, CORE Burlington, and Perl due by August 20, 2025, and Nelson’s written reply by August 27, 2025.
It is likely to be the end of the year before there is a decision from the Land Tribunal.
 By Gazette Staff
July 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Music from the Rooftop of the Joseph Brant Museum
 The Rooftop series starts July 11 with a performance by Josh Edwards.
Tickets are $20/adults, $15/seniors and students.* Ticket includes 1-hour live musical performance, lawn games, complimentary light refreshments & popcorn, and admission to the museum’s galleries. This is a 12+ event.
Click HERE for tickets:
Spend a summer evening listening to local musicians while enjoying a panoramic view of Lake Ontario!
MUSIC FROM THE ROOFTOP SCHEDULE:
July 11 – Josh Edwards
July 25 – Hayley Verrall
August 8 – Natalie Reis
August 22 – Warren Jones
* In the case of inclement weather, performances will happen inside Joseph Brant Museum’s Lakefront/Shoreline rooms.
By Gazette Staff
July 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Repair Cafe will be open on Saturdays; July 19 and August 23rd.
 People who just like fixing things. They will work out of St. Christopher’s Church from 10 a.m. to 2 pm. ; which is now their permanent home.
The Repair Café has added textile repairs to the list of items they repair. Most of the repairs are done free. If special parts are needed, they are handled on a cost recovery basis.
The Bring It – Fix It – For Free motto has served the city for six years. You can reach the group at burlingtonrepaircafe@cogeco.ca
By Gazette Staff
July 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Summer is usually an easy time for City Council.
At the meeting scheduled for July 7th, council will see what the financial people expect the tax increase to be for 2025-26.
 Add the 2.83 and the 2.98 – you get a total of 5.81 which is what the city wants to set as the tax increase. Enhancing services is where cuts can be made. Has the city explained the new infrastructure well enough? Hear is how they explain what they feel they will need:-
Based on the investments in current and expanded service delivery included within this report, the City would require a budget increase of 5.80%. Assuming a Region of Halton increase of 4.3% and no change for Education, the overall tax increase is forecasted to be 4.40% equivalent to $42.71 per $100,000 of residential current value assessment (CVA). Burlington’s portion of the overall increase would be 2.98% as outlined below.
Burlington has always shuffled the different financial needs of the Region and the school boards with its own needs. What the public needs to understand is what the city is spending – this year, that is projected to be close to 6%.
What the other levels of government need is separate – that their spending might reduce the average, is relevant but it is what the city is spending that City Council has to control. And a close to 6% for 2026 does not look like control
Why the city feels it needs, close to 6%, when inflation is less than 2% is something we find confusing.
Alignment to Corporate Strategy
Burlington’s Strategic Planning Approach, is undergoing an internal strategic realignment. This includes a revised 25-year Strategic Plan as well as a shift from the service-based Vision to Focus to a department-based 5-year Corporate Strategy.
This Corporate Strategy includes:
Strategic Directions for the organization.
These are the high-level, overarching priorities to achieve the vision and mission:
Deliver Positive Community Impact
Build Transparency and Public Trust
Unlock Innovation and Partnerships
Enable Sustainable Growth
Transparency and Public Trust will be a challenge for this council
By Pepper Parr
July, 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Graduations have taken 0place – students are off to whatever they are going to do this summer.
This is an opportunity to both celebrate those students who have excelled during the school year and take a look ahead and see what will happen in September when they return from the summer holiday..
 Aldershot High School student Keerthana Srinivasan Aldershot High School student Keerthana Srinivasan went quite a bit further than most graduates did in her final year of high school..
Mentioned in media in the city media and named during a comments by Burlington MP Karina Gould, in the House of Commons, Keerthana was on a media whirlwind for a few days.
With school over she has headed to MIT – the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and work as an intern for the summer and then register as an undergraduate at Princeton University.
What is of particular interest is what got this remarkable young lady to this point in her life.
Her mother, who writes computer code for a living, was certainly a big help.
The computer program she wrote was named SARAH: System Analysis and Reporting for Advanced Hardware (SARAH) an algorithm capable of detecting, classifying, and locating faults on photovoltaic systems as large as 20 MW (120 acres). The best part? It is capable of doing this in 11-40 seconds with minimal hardware setup. SARAH can be used on PV systems in both Space and on Earth. What follows is very technical and will be difficult to follow for most people. We include some of her description and the rationale for what she set out to do.
I was inspired to develop SARAH through my experience on the Mission Support Team at The Mars Society, where I acted as Mission Control during a simulated Mars mission in the Arctic on Devon Island. During this time, there was a significant fault due to electrostatic discharge. As part of protocol, the crew was supposed to communicate with me in order to solve this issue. With the high-simulated-communication delays, I realized the inefficiency behind the current protocol, and how detrimental it could be for astronauts living on Mars. Imagine if astronauts on Mars didn’t have electricity-wouldn’t that be crazy!?
In order to alleviate the communication inefficiency, I realized a more automated approach is crucial, especially in emergency situations.
Software Considerations
 Keerthana is very deliberate in the work she does All code for this project will be run in either Python or C++. Code for the bifurcation model, EKF, and QMCMC will be in Python, while code for the Arduino Pro Micro will be in C++ through the Arduino IDE. Code representing the governing equations for the photovoltaic emulator will be in both Python and C++. As aforementioned, all Python programs will be able to command the Arduino Pro Micro through the serial library.
At this point, the only way for me to actually run the program in a few seconds would be to use a quantum computer or processor. Since I am very committed to making sure my algorithm can be run on a classical computer, it was important to find another ( cheaper) way around this.
Postsecondary Education and Lifelong Learning
 This is remarkable work – done at the high school level. The mathematical proof of convergence for SARAH i s something I submitted to Princeton, Columbia, and other universities I applied to. Therefore, doing the research I did with SARAH and other projects in high school were one of the reasons I got into university. Moreover, working on SARAH opened doors at the University of Waterloo, the Cubes In Space program, and many mentors f rom accredited institutions ( l i ke the White House) that came my way. I have been given the opportunity to receive so much mentorship and assistance through working on SARAH. In terms of lifelong learning, I had the opportunity to improve my skills in circuitry and PCB design. I also got to learn more about quantum computing.
Science Fair winners
Students from the Halton District School Board (HDSB) achieved outstanding success at the 2025 Canada-Wide Science Fair (CWSF), held from June 1–6 in Fredericton, New Brunswick. The CWSF is Canada’s largest annual youth science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) event. For more than 60 years, the CWSF has united young thinkers from across Canada to present their research and innovations, compete for prestigious awards and engage with like-minded peers who are passionate about discovery and innovation.
This year, 11 students from HDSB elementary and secondary schools earned 40 awards across a range of categories, recognizing excellence in innovation and research. Highlights of HDSB student achievements include:
Those from Burlington include:
Evan Budz, Grade 9 student at Dr. Frank J. Hayden Secondary School for Development of an Autonomous Bionic Sea Turtle Robot for Ecological Monitoring using AI
- Best Project Award – Innovation
- The Beaty Centre for Species Discovery Award
- Excellence Award – Gold
- Challenge Award – Environment and Climate Change
- Youth Can Innovate Award
- European Union Contest for Young Scientists
- Mount Allison University Entrance Scholarship
- Western University Entrance Scholarship
Anish Rathod, Grade 12 student at Burlington Central High School for PIONEER: Pipe Inspection and Observation for Non-Destructive Evaluation and Environmental Review
- Engineering Innovation Award
- Excellence Award – Silver
- Dalhousie University Faculty of Science Entrance Scholarship
- Mount Allison University Entrance Scholarship
- University of New Brunswick Canada-Wide Science Fair Scholarship
- University of Ottawa Entrance Scholarship
- Western University Entrance Scholarship
- Mount Allison University Entrance Scholarship
- Western University Entrance Scholarship
Claire Marsh, Grade 11 student at M.M. Robinson High School for Autism Identification Tool: An AI Approach to Reducing Diagnostic Barriers
- Excellence Award – Bronze
- Mount Allison University Entrance Scholarship
- University of Ottawa Entrance Scholarship
- Western University Entrance Scholarship
The impressive results at the Canada-Wide Science Fair reflect the strength of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) learning across the HDSB. With students from a variety of schools represented, these achievements highlight how the HDSB fosters curiosity, encourages innovation and provides meaningful opportunities that help students develop their passions and deepen their learning.
 By Gazette Staff
July 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service released their 2024 report. This year it was an online report only.
The story this year is set out in a number of graphics:
 Auto theft occurrences.  Break and Enter Occurrences
Regional Statistics:
Social media:
As the social media landscape continued to evolve through 2024, so too did the Halton Regional Police Service’s (HRPS’) online presence. To ensure followers have quick and easy access to the information they want and need, the HRPS reimagined its X (formerly Twitter) accounts in July @HaltonPolice became the official channel for HRPS news, and existing District accounts were rebranded to provide tailored content on priority safety and well-being issues: traffic (@HRPS_Traffic) and community (@HRPS_Comm).
As of December 31, 2024, the three X accounts had a combined following of 181,256. Metrics for all HRPS social media accounts in 2024 are as follows:
Crime Stoppers:
Now in its 36th year, Crime Stoppers of Halton is an independent, non-profit, registered charity that helps solve crimes by taking tips from anonymous sources. A tip is any information that a member of the public is aware of that may help law enforcement prevent or solve a crime.
Countless criminals are brought to justice every year as a direct result of anonymous tips. A tip can be about anything – drugs, theft, child abuse, human trafficking, terrorism, escaped criminals, and more. As a resident of Halton, you are encouraged to keep a watchful eye on your community and to report suspicious activity when seen.
Your call or text is anonymous and the appropriate officials will investigate all tips received.
 By Pepper Parr
July 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Canada Day!
Is it going to be different this year?
There was a time when Bobby Gimby sang his C a n a d a while children marched behind him.
That was our Centennial year. We were noisy then – we had a lot to celebrate.
As a nation, we are a quiet people. The Americans are the noisy ones.
Things are quite a bit different this year. We face an existential threat from a President who is ignorant, psychologically unbalanced and a convicted felon who awaits sentencing from a Judge as soon as his presidency ends. He could well find himself in jail at some point.
Many of the elected officials in the American Senate have forgotten why they were elected. Defending the American Constitution is what they swore to do.
The threat from the United States will be with us at least until the 2026 American midterm elections.
In the meantime, we do what we can to manage a very difficult economy; tariffs are wreaking havoc on how business with the Americans is going to take place.
 Be resolute and continue to stand firm. Prime Minister Carney has the experience and, so far, the capacity to make the decisions that are necessary. Some of them are going to be painful.
In the recent past, Canadians have found themselves standing and singing the National anthem before events. Not something we have done for some time.
This country has so much going for it – the level of services delivered by the different levels of government is incredible.
We complain about how long it takes to get hip surgery procedures done, how long it takes to get appointments for small surgeries that, for the most part, cost citizens very little.
Americans often go bankrupt as a result of medical bills they cannot pay.
We are the envy of the world for many.
In his Canada Day message, Prime Minister Carney said: We are a “strong, bilingual, multicultural, ambitious country, a country built on the values of freedom, democracy, justice, generosity and humility, because we know that we can always be better.
We have to be resolute and continue to stand firm.
We will prevail.
 By Olivia Molcho
July 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
As in many other regions, online gambling in Canada has grown increasingly popular, with an estimated 75% of the country’s adults gambling in some form. Online casinos, in particular, have seen incredible growth, which can be partly attributed to the establishment of an online gambling legal framework in some provinces.
 Ontario has become a hub of online gambling. Since the launch of its legal gambling framework, Ontario has become a hub of online gambling activity. However, with offshore casinos still targeting players with enticing deals, many don’t realize they may be playing at a casino that isn’t licensed in the province.
While this may seem like an unimportant oversight, there are significant differences between legally licensed casinos in Ontario and offshore alternatives. These differences can have a material impact on gameplay, your gambling experience, and even your winnings.
So that you won’t get caught unaware, we’ve highlighted these differences and their impacts below.
The Legal Framework Behind Ontario’s iGaming Market
Before looking at these differences, it is important to note that Ontario is the only province within Canada with a fully regulated online gambling and casino market. While others may permit specific types of gambling online, they lack a regulator that oversees all aspects of gambling activity within the province.
The primary governing body within the province is:
- The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO)
- Established in 1998
- The body was initially incorporated to control substances like alcohol
- Also responsible for ensuring that gambling was restricted where necessary and permitted where deemed fit
The turning point for online gambling in the region occurred in 2022 when a subsidiary of the AGCO, iGaming Ontario (iGO), was founded. Despite the AGCO retaining the responsibility of setting regulations and issuing licenses to local operators, the iGO is the body that enters into operating agreements with these operators.
As part of these operating agreements, the iGO manages the relationship between operators and regulators, encourages economic growth in the industry, and ensures continuous compliance with all existing and new gambling laws.
These duties include ensuring proper licensing has been obtained, all relevant background and financial checks conducted, and regular audits of games and security carried out. This ensures operators are transparent with players regarding odds, rules, and other pertinent items and holds operators accountable to provincial authorities.
Despite possibly having a license from alternative governing bodies, offshore operators are not subject to these rigorous standards within Ontario and, therefore, could operate within legal grey areas.
Payout Reliability and Financial Protections
 iGO ensures that each operator segregates player funds from the platform’s operational funds. Among the most significant differences between offshore operators and those licensed within Ontario is the assurance of payouts and protection of your finances. Because the prospect of winning a life-changing amount of money is one of the key attractions of gambling, this is a vital consideration for any player.
Online casinos licensed in Ontario are subject to regulations regarding how they store player funds, perform payouts, and communicate and process withdrawals. iGO enforces each of these regulations, which must be met in order for operators to stay licensed.
One of the most significant methods iGO uses to protect player funds is to ensure that each operator segregates player funds from the platform’s operational funds. This simple act ensures that, should a casino begin facing financial difficulties, your deposited funds are safe and cannot be used by the casino to cover its operational expenses.
More than this:
- iGO actively enforces that all licensed online casinos use trusted and reputable payment gateways that encrypt all transaction data and minimize the risk of data theft.
- Strict financial fairness standards also dictate that operators pay out winnings using these methods in a timely manner, consistently when required, and transparently in all withdrawal terms.
In contrast to the above strict regulation to protect your funds and winnings, offshore casinos may not be subject to similar rules and enforcement. Due to this, many complaints can be found online about operators who withhold payouts or endlessly prolong withdrawals, often with no valid reason given.
Game Fairness and Software Audits
Many question the fairness of the games an online casino offers, most often when they are losing. However, numerous third-party agencies, such as eCORGA, perform extensive independent testing and audits to ensure that casino games are fair.
 While offshore casinos may or may not provide proof that their games have been proven fair through external audits, operators within Ontario have no choice in the matter. This is because the AGCO provides a strict mandate regarding game fairness and independent auditing.
This mandate states that only games from software providers vetted and approved by the AGCO may be offered on any licensed casino. As such, only titles developed by reputable companies within the iGaming industry are available to players.
In addition, all Ontario-based operators must provide independent certification for the random number generators (RNGs) used in their games. This step ensures that the core of each game, which decides if you win or lose, is justifiably fair and doesn’t grant the house an unreasonable edge.
Dispute Resolution and Consumer Recourse
Another significant advantage of playing at a licensed Ontario casino is that both iGO and AGCO provide resolution services for players who have exhausted all direct avenues when encountering problems with an operator. This recourse, not available with offshore providers, ensures that there is a governing body to which queries can be escalated when needed.
 As part of their process of providing players with an avenue of recourse, the iGO and AGCO have the legal authority to launch investigations into complaints and provide mediation for disputes between players and operators.
Where the player is found to be correct, both bodies also have the authority to impose sanctions on operators, including enforcing payouts or fining operators who breach regulatory requirements.
Responsible Gambling Tools and Support Access
The final key difference between offshore operators and casinos operating legally in Ontario is that those within the province must actively promote responsible gambling. While many offshore operators also do this, there have been cases where international gambling brands have failed to provide adequate support or have taken advantage of at-risk players.
To combat this:
- Ontario casinos are subject to strict rules regarding how they encourage responsible gambling.
- These include the requirement to provide players with the tools to set deposit, loss, and wager limits.
- Enable time-outs and session reminders if they’re playing for too long, and to join a self-exclusion program that will bar them from playing entirely.
In addition to these tools, all online casinos are also required to provide easily accessible, direct links to organizations like ConnexOntario, which provide free counselling for those seeking support for problem gambling.
The AGCO also regulates how online casinos within the province advertise their services to potential players. While the gambling advertising landscape is relatively open at present, worldwide clampdowns on gambling advertising may result in stricter regulations in the future.
Conclusion
 With so many offshore operators catering to Canadian players, choosing one based in Ontario might seem unnecessary at first. However, considering the many advantages offered by the province’s regulatory framework, playing at an offshore operator is not recommended.
Accessing only the best and tested titles, ensuring that payments are timely and conducted using trusted providers, getting access to mediation services and routes of recourse, and receiving addiction help when needed are only some of the perks of gambling with a licensed Ontario online casino.
These advantages easily outweigh any perks of using an offshore operator. They are helping the iGaming industry in Ontario flourish while providing local players with protection that cannot be found elsewhere.
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