By Pepper Parr

September 1^st, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

The federal government is looking for anything they can do to help get more housing built.

The created the Canada Public Land Bank and put 56 properties as potential locations for construction of thousands of housing units.  The 56 properties amount to 305 hectares of land across Canada.

This is comparable to a flea on an elephant – a sigh that they aren’t looking all that hard at the properties owned by the federal government.

Doing what government tend to do – inflate the information they hand out – we are told that the 305 hectares is equal to approximately 2,000 hockey rinks or 400 Canadian football fields

None of the 56 are located in Burlington

Properties were selected because of their suitability for housing development. The federal government is continuing to review federal surplus and underutilized properties, as well as actively working with partners to identify more properties for development.

A surprising part of the announcement is this:

If you are aware of a federal property that is currently not in use and has housing potential, please email us the location and a brief proposal at terrainspublics-publiclands@tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca (this email is not secure; don’t include personal information, such as telephone, address, SIN, financial, medical or work details). You can also provide us with ideas directly from the public land mapping tool.

All properties included in the tool will be ready to be released as soon as possible.

To get a look at the locations there is an Interactive map.  Click HERE to get there.

In an attempt to assure the Indigenous community that the government isn’t going to steal anymore of their land the government said it will:

honour known interests and previous commitments and Section 35 Constitutional obligations (including those related to asserted or established aboriginal or treaty rights). We will also engage with Indigenous rights holders, communities and developers on housing and economic opportunities that the Public Lands for Homes Plan may present.

The government remains committed to meaningful consultation and coordination with Indigenous communities and organizations. We are working to ensure that the Public Lands for Homes Plan is applied in a way that recognizes and promotes Indigenous rights and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and that we fulfill our Crown’s duty to consult with Indigenous Peoples.

Canada is the world’s second-largest country with a land mass of 9,976,139 square kilometres. Canada comprises 7% of the world’s land mass.

1 square km = 100 hectares.

This is so embarrassing.

By  Dimitry Ignatius

June 24th, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON

You ever get the feeling your favourite pokie knows you a little too well? Like, you log in, and bam — the exact kind of bonus or game you were just thinking about shows up on the screen? It’s not magic. It’s data. Big, messy, relentless data.

Online casinos are no longer just virtual slot halls — they’ve morphed into finely-tuned ecosystems powered by AI and algorithms that are, for lack of a better phrase, getting real comfy in our heads.

Handing out offers like an online casino no deposit bonus free spins

From shopping to streaming to spinning the reels, machine learning is everywhere — deciding what you see, when you see it, and, crucially, how often you click. That’s true whether you’re playing at a rising favourite like Pokiesurf mobile casino Australia or any number of other mobile-friendly platforms. And while some folks still reckon it’s all just maths and timing, others think we’ve crossed into some digital mind-reading territory. Some claim AI is just about recommending games, others believe it’s shaping how we bet — even handing out offers like an online casino no deposit bonus free spins australia without us lifting a finger.

Let’s talk about what’s really going on behind those spinning reels.

Are We Being Watched — or Just Profiled?

There’s a fine line between being observed and being analysed. In the casino world, it’s mostly the latter. Here’s how it works.

What Data Online Casinos Actually Collect

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, let’s look at the kind of information your favourite casino quietly logs while you play.

• Login times and frequency
• Game types you play (and how often)
• Betting amounts and win/loss patterns
• Session duration and click behaviour
• Device and browser information

This list may look basic, but stitched together it forms a disturbingly accurate portrait of how, when, and why you gamble.

They’re not watching you, per se — they’re watching your habits.

The takeaway? They’re not watching you, per se — they’re watching your habits.

Algorithms at Work

Now that we’ve covered what they collect, here’s what they do with it. Casinos don’t just store your data in some dusty corner of a server. They feed it into algorithms trained to sort you into neat little boxes: occasional spinner, loyal returner, bonus hunter, risk taker, etc.

Once you’re sorted, the system adapts the experience — from bonus timing to game suggestions — to nudge you toward behaviours that benefit the house. It’s a casino version of “If you liked this, you might like that” — only it’s betting, not binge-watching.

The Illusion of Choice? AI and Game Selection

Game choice is often more of an illusion than we care to admit. Here’s why that matters.

How Personalised Game Feeds Work

Much like your social feeds, casino lobbies aren’t random. They’re curated based on what you’ve clicked, played, or even hovered over. A simple scroll sends signals to the algorithm, which then tweaks what you see next.

This is especially obvious at places like Pokiesurf Casino, where the lobby shifts subtly over time. You might think you’re discovering new games — but odds are, they’ve been gently nudged into your view by a very clever backend.

Pokies and Player Psychology

These games are built to work with your brain.

Let’s take a moment to talk about how AI ties into pokie design. These games are built to work with your brain. Features like near-miss animations, escalating music, and random micro-rewards are all based on behavioural triggers.

Algorithms track how you react. If you stick around after a near-miss, expect more. If you rage-quit after three dead spins, the system might serve up a low-volatility title next time. Creepy? Maybe. Clever? Definitely.

Not all nudges are bad — but some definitely deserve side-eye.

Smart Bonuses or Psychological Nudges?

Not all nudges are bad — but some definitely deserve side-eye. Let’s unpack bonus offers through the AI lens.

Behaviour-Based Bonuses

It’s not uncommon to be mid-session, running low on credits, and suddenly see a pop-up: “Deposit $20 now for 25 free spins!” These aren’t random. They’re timed.

Before you get cynical, here’s a bit of context:

• AI tracks inactivity and wagering dips
• The system flags potential churn (you leaving)
• A bonus is served up to re-engage you

Sometimes this is welcome — a nudge back into the action. Other times, it feels like the house knows exactly when you’re most vulnerable.

The Role of Predictive AI

Let’s break this down with a simple table that shows how predictive AI may influence bonus timing and type:

These nudges are subtle, but they’re designed to steer your behaviour. The more predictable you become, the more effective the offer.

Whether that’s helpful or manipulative depends on your mindset (and your bankroll).

Is This All Legal? Regulation vs. Reality

Laws haven’t quite caught up to the tech. That leaves players in a grey area when it comes to behavioural profiling.

What Aussie Law Says (and Doesn’t Say)

The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 says it loud and clear: Australian-based online casinos are a no-go. But here’s the thing — it doesn’t penalise players for signing up with offshore sites.

Most online casinos operate out of places like Curaçao, fully licensed and (for now) legally allowed to serve Aussie players. And yes, they have terms that cover data usage, but behavioural targeting? That’s still a bit of a wild west.

So technically, it’s legal. Ethically? Well…

Can AI Be Used to Help Players, Too?

Let’s not paint everything black. AI can also keep you out of trouble — if the casino wants it to.

Responsible Gambling Algorithms

Here’s a look at how responsible gambling tools are implemented using AI:

These systems aren’t just window dressing. They can make a difference. Pokiesurf, for instance, allows self-exclusion with no fuss.

Short version? AI can play both sides. Depends on who’s programming it.

What Comes Next? Smarter Casinos, Smarter Players

The future of gambling isn’t just flashier graphics or bigger jackpots. It’s smarter systems. We’re talking live dealer games with AI moderators. Chatbots that adapt to your mood. Bonus offers built with predictive behaviour graphs.

But here’s the kicker: as casinos get smarter, players have to wise up too.

You don’t need a degree in computer science. Just an awareness that when a game feels too perfect, or a bonus offer arrives at just the right moment, it probably wasn’t a coincidence.

In the end, the best tool you have isn’t AI — it’s knowing when it’s being used on you.

FAQs

Before we wrap this up, let’s answer a few of the most common questions about AI and online gambling.

1. Do online casinos really use AI to track players?

Yes, most major platforms do. It helps personalise your experience and catch fraud.

2. Can AI change the outcome of pokies?

No. Certified RNGs (Random Number Generators) determine outcomes. AI just shapes what you see, not what you win.

3. How can I tell if a bonus offer is automated?

If it hits during a break or right after a loss, it’s probably algorithm-driven.

4. Are casinos allowed to use my data this way?

If you’ve clicked “agree” in the terms (and you probably have), then yes.

5. Is Pokiesurf Casino safe to use?

It’s licensed offshore, uses solid encryption, and has daily withdrawal limits that offer a bit of passive protection.

6. What’s the standard wagering requirement for free spins bonuses?

At Pokiesurf, it’s generally 45x. Always check the fine print.

7. Can I still play pokies without registering?

Definitely. Pokiesurf offers demo versions for most of their games. No strings.

8. Should I avoid AI-powered casinos?

Not at all. Just know how they work. That way, you play smart instead of just playing.

By Jeannie Løjstrup

June 11th, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON

Ontario’s online gambling market has undergone a significant transformation over the past several years. At the beginning of  2022, on April 4th, the province introduced a fully regulated iGaming framework, creating an unprecedented range of legal wagering options. Today, Ontarians can enjoy everything imaginable, from live casino games to sports betting and even niche virtual experiences. This is all with the protection of provincial oversight. Look at this informative guide and explore all these exciting, legal gaming opportunities step-by-step.

Land-Based Casinos & Racetracks

25 fully licensed casinos in the province.

Ontario offers more than 25 fully licensed casinos in locations such as:

Toronto

Niagara Falls

Windsor

These venues provide various games, including slot machines, table games, live dealer experiences, and poker rooms. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) ensures that all casinos adhere to strict standards of fairness and security.

The Mohawk Race track is a 20 minute drive from Burlington.

Racetracks & Off‑Track Betting

Racetracks such as Woodbine and Mohawk feature live horse racing and simulcast feeds. Under AGCO oversight, bettors and horse race lovers enjoy regulated horse race wagering (with some fund restrictions) both in person and online.

Online Casino Games & Regulated iGaming Sites

Ontarians can access over 80 licensed and regulated online gaming sites through partnerships between private operators and iGaming Ontario. These platforms host a wide variety of casino games, including the following:

• 

  Slot machines are pure games of chance. Pull a lever or press a button.

  Slot Machines

• Blackjack
• Roulette
• Baccarat
• Poker
• Craps
• Live Dealer Games
• Instant Win Games
• Bingo
• Keno
• Scratch Cards
• Game Shows
• Aviators
• Crash Games.

 Leading operators in Ontario, like BetMGM and Casumo, are compliant with AGCO regulations, ensuring modern games have protections like responsible gambling tools. Over 86% of Ontario players prefer regulated iGaming sites, up from 70% pre‑2022. This is a testament to consumer confidence in licensed, safe gaming environments.

Mobile & Digital Casino Experiences

Licensed online gambling platforms ensure seamless mobile gameplay with touch-friendly interfaces, responsive design, and complete casino gaming functionality. They offer everything from spinning slots to betting live on roulette tables. Regulation and fairness are also a top priority at many sites. Casinos are monitored to ensure encrypted mobile apps and sites, fair RNG operation, and transparent, responsible gambling features, which are all mandated by AGCO technical standards.

You can wager on almost everything.

Sports & Esports Betting

Since iGaming Ontario’s launch, single-event sports betting has been permitted, bringing Ontario in line with modern global betting practice. Legal sportsbooks offer bettors the chance to wager on:

• NHL
• NFL
• NBA
• Soccer
• MMA
• Horse Races.

A fast-growing segment includes regulated bets on games like the ones below. The best sports betting platforms provide market options from match winners to in-game prop bets.

• CS:GO
• League of Legends
• DOTA 2

Daily fantasy sports have been a huge hit and are also covered under Ontario’s regulated framework, with operators offering pools for several games such as:

• NFL
• NHL

Government-Run Games: Lotteries & Keno

Traditional lotteries run by the OLG, like Lotto Max and Pick‑3, are fully available for residents to enjoy and try. These casino gambling games can be purchased via lottery terminals or online. Top sites offer Keno-style ticket games, which are known for offering players the best casual play experiences.

Why Legal Regulation Matters

Legislation and regulation matter when gambling for real money at land-based and online casinos.

Legislation and regulation matter when gambling for real money at land-based and online casinos. Licensed sites are held to standards including audit compliance, certified RNGs, privacy measures, and support for responsible gambling, such as deposit limits, cooldowns, and self-exclusion. Ontario operators guarantee that player deposits are securely held and winnings are paid out. Offshore sites, by contrast, carry higher risks of fraud or unfair play.

Skill-based and prize-based games are heavily regulated in Ontario to prevent illegal forms. Some bars offer skill-based gambling machines under strict loophole control. Such machines can be risky and are not under AGCO regulation.

How Can Ontarians Legally Get Started & Play Online?

Getting started at an online gambling site can be overwhelming at first, but it’s pretty simple. Follow the step-by-step process below and start playing your favorite games.

1. Verify Age: Must be 19+ to participate.
2. Choose a Licensed Platform: Look for the official iGaming Ontario/AGCO badge.
3. Register & Verify: Full KYC (proof of identity, residence).
4. Set Responsible Limits: Use built-in tools to manage deposits.
5. Make a Deposit: Options include Interac, credit cards, and e-wallets.
6. Enjoy Gaming: Play your favorite games, bet on sports or races, all legally and securely.

The Final Say About Gaming Experiences For Ontarians

Ontario’s gaming landscape in 2025 presents an expansive, modern, and highly regulated environment. Ontarians can legally enjoy a wide range of stunning offers such as traditional casino games in land-based venues and online platforms, regulated sports and esports betting, lottery, horse racing, skill games, and fantasy sports. With over 80 regulated platforms in Ontario that focus on fairness, secure transactions, and responsible gambling measures, players have safe and diverse experiences at their fingertips.

By Alexander Blanchet

May 21st, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON

Over the past two decades, NHL teams decision-making has evolved from purely observational and subjective to become sophisticated, data-supported processes. Early metrics like Corsi and Fenwick quantified puck possession by counting shot attempts for and against, laying the groundwork for richer analyses in the future.

This started in 2021, with the league’s NHL Edge system deployed cameras and infrared sensors to capture puck movement 60 times per second and player positions 15 times per second, thus generating millions of data points per game. Concurrently, expected goals (xG) models assign scoring probabilities to individual shots based on historical data, allowing teams to evaluate shot quality in real time.

Traditional Scouting and the Quest for Objectivity

Hockey talent scouts could be a dying breed.

Historically, NHL teams relied heavily on the “eye test”, where hired scouts and coaches would judge players by observable skills and intangible qualities, like leadership and hockey sense. While invaluable, these assessments could be subjective and inconsistent, often leading to overdrafted prospects or overlooked talent. Recognizing these limitations, front offices began seeking quantitative methods to complement qualitative judgment. Early attempts were focused on basic counting stats, such as goals; assists; plus-minus… but these metrics proved insufficient for forecasting future performance, as they failed to account for team context and randomness.

Corsi and Fenwick metrics

In the mid-2000s, analysts introduced shot-attempt metrics to capture puck possession more reliably. Corsi was the first kind of measure. It measured the net difference between all shot attempts for and against at even strength (shots on goal, missed shots, and blocked shots). Fenwick followed afterwards, and it was quite similar, but it put its focus on offering a slightly different lens on offensive pressure. The users of Fenwick thought that shot attempts occur far more frequently than goals, roughly 25 Corsi events per goal, so it provided a larger sample size and reduced variance, allowing teams to evaluate players’ on-ice impact more rapidly and objectively.

Real-Time Tracking Thanks to NHL Edge

Starting in the 2021-22 season, the NHL rolled out the NHL Edge puck and player tracking system, installing cameras and infrared emitters in all 32 arenas of the league. This technology records puck movement up to 60 times per second and player positions 15 times per second, yielding data on skating speed, distance traveled, shot velocity and location, and zone entries/exits. Then, third party providers like Sportlogiq apply computer vision and machine-learning algorithms to extract advanced event data, such as passes, backchecking intensity, and defensive disruptions; enabling coaches to dissect every shift with more granularity than ever.

Data on printed reports is just part of the information now collected.

The data provided through NHL Edge, also helps in the world of sports betting. Bookmakers can provide more accurate and dynamic odds during live games whilst, bettors can use this granular data – such as player speed, shot quality and possession metrics – to identify opportunities and refine their strategies. As this kind of data-driven betting becomes more common, some platforms aim to make it easier for newcomers to get started—for instance bonuses. You can find information about the Stake sign up bonus, which can be activated when signing a new account and offers a 200% Deposit bonus. This bonus can give new users extra time to explore different strategies and get familiar with the platform.

Expected Goals to Measure Quality of Scoring Chances

While Corsi and Fenwick gauge volume, expected goals (xG) models assess the quality of every scoring chance. It uses shot location, shot type, pre-shot movement, and game context in its analysis, so xG algorithms are able to estimate the probability that any given shot will become a goal. Academic work by Brian Macdonald demonstrated that including contextual factors substantially improves predictive accuracy over raw goal total.

Today, teams use xG in real time to adjust line matchups, evaluate power-play formations, and identify undervalued players whose shot profiles suggest higher scoring potential than their goal totals indicate. That way, it’s a powerful stat to work with what the teams have and future prospects.

Case Study: Tampa Bay Lightning

One of the teams that have been relying the most on data analysis is the Tampa Bay Lightning. The franchise has a partnership with TIBCO Spotfire, a data-visualization firm that allows integrating real-time tracking and performance data into daily workflows, influencing lineup decisions, shift timing, and even ticket sales strategies.

The Lightning’s front office, which includes analysts with baseball sabermetrics backgrounds, credit this “Moneyball”-style approach for improved roster construction, optimal deployment of star players, and a rapid response to in-game trends.

Tools like player-tracking dashboards and xG overlays inform decisions – how do they explain situations like this ?

Case Study: Toronto Maple Leafs

Under General Manager Kyle Dubas, the Toronto Maple Leafs expanded their analytics department, leveraging advanced metrics to guide draft selections, trade evaluations and contract negotiations with their players. Tools like player-tracking dashboards and xG overlays inform decisions ranging from defensive pairing adjustments to power-play unit construction.

The Future for This Kind of Analysis

Metrics can miss certain intangibles, such as locker-room leadership, situational “clutch” play, and unpredictable bounces.

There are clear benefits from analytics-driven choices in ice-hockey, there is still some resistance from within the franchises. Critics argue that metrics can miss certain intangibles, such as locker-room leadership, situational “clutch” play, and unpredictable bounces. Small sample sizes for individual players and model biases, especially in limited power-play or penalty-kill data, can lead to misleading conclusions if used uncritically.

Moreover, integrating analytics requires cultural shifts that only a new guard of coaches and players would accept fondly: coaches must trust data-driven recommendations, and players must adapt to performance monitoring. As new GMs, head coaches, and players enter the league, the acceptance of this kind of analysis will likely grow.