 By Dink Delorme
August 17th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Fans religiously waiting for a new iteration of the famed PES franchise will not see a PES 22.
The 26 years of football and competing with the FIFA franchise is over.
Konami shut down the PES and created a new game. The silver lining is that the new game eFootball will replace PES in the fall – it will be free-to-play. What will be free for the fans on start is still unknown, and so are the possible upgrades and items you can buy with in-game purchases.
 Major change in the way a brand is being marketed – free to everyone. Will Konami Just Change the Name of the Game?
Huge Japanese game developer was synonymous with “real” football, while fans of the PES franchise mocked FIFA.
Konami developed a strong brand from the football game and sold a ton of merchandise and millions of PES games. Knowing that Konami produces hundreds of video slots, it’s weird they didn’t make the PES slot game.
The title and monetization are not the only things changed for the new eFootball game. The upcoming football game will be the first for Konami on Unreal Engine 4. So far, they have developed PES on Fox Engine, which they created for the Metal Gear Solid game franchise.
The most significant change in game play will come on a rebuild one-on-one system named Motion Matching, where all players will have unique reactions and some of their signature moves.
What More We Know so Far
The Unreal Engine-powered eFootball will be a free game available for most systems, including PS5, PS4, Xbox Series x, Xbox Series S, Xbox One and PC. In addition, the game will supposedly have cross-platform play, and after the release, there will be eSports tournaments.
In the game trailer, we saw Lionel Messi speaking about his passion for football. After that, Konami brought more big names to the game and used motion capturing on former Barcelona and Spain national team star Andres Iniesta. Gerard Pique is another player showcased in the trailer.
PES had problems with licencing clubs and players throughout its illustrious past, and for eFootball, we know there will be Manchester United, Barcelona, Arsenal, Bayern and Juventus. The Italian club will be exclusively in eFootball and will not appear in Electronic Arts FIFA. Another two Seria A clubs will be solely on eFootball: Napoli and Roma.
There is no information about other clubs and leagues, which leads us to monetization.
What Will Players Get in a Free-to-Play Game?
All biggest licenced clubs will be available at launch to the players. However, some speculate eFootball will come out as a barebone game, and you will have to pay for additional game modes, like career and others.
 The game will probably have a battle pass system that offers rewards. For example, match Pass will enable new items or unlocking certain things in-game. In addition, there will be an option to buy the items without finishing challenges.
In the eFootball official reveal trailer, we saw little game play from the match. Still, plenty of close-ups focused on facial expression and natural player movement in various attacking and defending situations.
 By Staff
August 17th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
In 2021, the Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) reported a significant increase in both relay and re-programming thefts of high-end vehicles with keyless entry and push-start technology.
Since January 2021, there have been a total of 52 vehicles stolen from Milton and Halton Hills (Oakville and Burlington will get targeted soon enough) that have been attributed to the use of relay or reprogramming technology.
In the majority of these thefts, the vehicles are being stolen from residents’ driveways during the overnight hours, with most thefts typically taking less than one minute.
 Stunning just ho much technology the thieves have access to – they get it online, pay a hefty price and see that price as a good investment. What is a relay theft?
Thieves will use technology called a “relay device” to find a key fob signal from inside a residence. The thieves do not need to enter the residence in order to find the signal.
The signal is then amplified which allows the thieves to unlock, start and steal the vehicle. The vehicle owner discovers their vehicle has been stolen, even though they are in possession of their key fob.
What is a reprogramming theft?
Thieves will first gain entry to the vehicle by mechanical means (breaking in by using a tool). They will then access the vehicle’s diagnostic port and reprogram a blank key fob which allows them to start and steal the vehicle.
The HRPS is applying significant resources to investigate these occurrences. In spite of recent arrests, it is important that the community be aware of this trend and takes preventative steps to ensure their property remains secure from theft.
Special attention should be given by those members of the community who own the specific vehicles described here as they are most commonly being targeted for theft.
 These carts once stolen leave the country in days – look for them in the war torn countries of the Middle East. The terrorists love the SUV’s and the pickup trucks. What types of vehicles are being targeted?
While many different makes and models of high-end vehicles are being targeted, over 55% of these thefts involve Lexus RX350, Toyota SUV and Honda CR-V models.
What can residents do to protect themselves from these types of thefts?
There are measures that residents can take to mitigate the risk of having their vehicle(s) stolen:
• Park your vehicle in a locked and secured garage
• Install an on-board diagnostic blocker
• Install a steering wheel lock device
• Combine the above measures with an aftermarket GPS tracking device
• Place vehicle key fob inside a radio frequency shielding bag when not in use
• Lock your vehicle at all times
• Equip your vehicle with an alarm
• Install home security cameras that capture the exterior of your residence, including the driveway
• Take steps to conceal the Vehicle Identification Number (V.I.N.)
Additional tips and information, including an educational video, can be found on our website: https://www.haltonpolice.ca/en/staying-safe/vehicle-theft-prevention-tips.aspx
 Crime prevention is a shared responsibility. Call 911 if you witness a crime in progress. Call 905-825-4777 if you see suspicious vehicles or persons in your neighbourhood.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. “See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca
 By Staff
August 16th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Got this from people who are in the business of helping people.
Does the feeling expressed represent what most – maybe just many – feel?
There’s this tension everywhere right now – we’re all expecting another covid infestation and another shut-down – our worst fears.
But we’re all LOVING this opportunity to feel free again.
They follow this up with
“… reminding people to enjoy this great weather while it lasts, get out for a walk and enjoy this great City. With the Pandemic still hanging on we all know what we can do to try to protect ourselves and our neighbours – just follow the basic covid protocols we’ve heard so often – keep it up.
You can find a wealth of information about Mental health and COVID-19 at the Halton Region website here – https://www.halton.ca
For-Residents/Public-Health/Mental-Health COVID-19 is affecting our lives in many different ways.
 It might sound stupid – maybe even too simple – but when the anxiety builds up and your worried, confused maybe even a little afraid – just take deep deep breathes. Your body and your mind will settle down. It is normal to feel stress and concern. Remember to take care of your mental health, just as you would take care of your physical health. While physical distancing is important to help limit the spread of COVID-19, we can still find ways to stay connected through technology and practice self-care.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to a colleague, friend, loved one or health professional if you need support.
St.Matthews Church on Plains Road is reminding people that there are students who could use some help.
And the good people at the Food Bank remind us: If you are in need or know of someone who could use our help, PLEASE have them email us at info@burlingtonfoodbank.ca or call 905-637-2273 to make arrangements to have food dropped at their door or make arrangements to pick it up through our curb-side pickup option. If you are a resident in Burlington, we are all here to help. Don’t struggle – give us a call
 By Staff
August 16th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Parks and Recreation will open online registration for fall Adult, Youth and pre-season Aquatic Leadership programs beginning Saturday, Aug. 28.
 Adult registration will open at 9 a.m. and Youth and pre-season Aquatic Leadership program registration will open at 11 a.m.
Programs will be viewable online at Burlington.ca/recreation on Aug. 20, 2021.
Swimming lessons and additional Aquatic Leadership programming will be announced in September.
All City programs will continue to follow public health guidance when required, including physical distancing, capacity limits and wearing masks or face coverings. Individuals participating in an in-person program will be required to fill out the mandatory health screening form at Burlington.ca/screening before each session.
Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture said, hopefully: “Another season, another great set of recreation choices for residents to participate in for fun, exercise, learning or social opportunities. Our catalogue of programs is always changing to add new and interesting options on top of our traditional favourites that you’ll see every season.”
 By Norbert Fraught
April 16th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The methods available for making deposits and withdrawals is undoubtedly one of the most integral parts of the iGaming industry. Keep reading to check the most popular payment methods in Canada.
Online gambling is an activity that is becoming more and more popular in the Canadian market over the past few years. One main reason for this is the increased level of convenience and easy access that online casinos and sports betting sites bring players, allowing them to engage in their favorite pastime from just about anywhere at any time.
 Deposits and withdrawals methods are an essential aspect of online casinos that often influence players’ choice of where to play. Of course, to play free slots no download, or just about any casino games for real money from the comfort of your own home, you will have to transfer money into your casino account. This is why deposits and withdrawals methods are an essential aspect of online casinos that often influence players’ choice of where to play. Thankfully, Canadian players have access to a plethora of payment methods that are fast, secure, and readily accessible for making deposits and withdrawals at online casinos.
In this article, we will be looking at some of the most popular payment methods that gambling enthusiasts use to make deposits and withdrawals at online casinos in Canada.
Interac
Commonly referred to as the national debit card for Canada, Interac is one of the most popular, safest, and reliable payment methods that Canadian players use to deposit and withdraw funds at online casinos. It is a Canada-exclusive interbank network that links participating Canadian banks and other financial institutions for the purpose of electronic funds transfer and transactions. Simply put, Interac is a payment service that allows Canadian players to fund their casino account directly from their bank or credit union accounts. In addition, this payment method provides an extra layer of protection for players online since there is no need to share sensitive financial information. Over the years, Interac has launched many branded services, and the two most popular ones you will find in most casinos include:
Interac e-transfer Service
Interac Online
Reasons for its Popularity
As we have mentioned before, the number of online casinos featuring the Interac payment method is on the rise, and it has become the first choice for millions of Canadians. However, this popularity doesn’t come solely because it is a local service but is based on several reasons. Below are some of these reasons:
Interac is available for both deposits and withdrawals. Many popular payment methods are usually only exclusively for deposits, and players would have to find another method when they want to withdraw. The flexibility of Interac makes it a neat and valuable method.
Depositing money with Interac into an online casino is instant. But, on the other hand, withdrawal through Interac is also fast and almost instant.
With Interac, you can use the Canadian dollar and don’t need a currency converter.
Interac is relatively safe and secure, which means that your financial information remains private.
Interac is not expensive. Depending on your bank and casino of choice, it may cost little to nothing to fund your casino account through Interac.
 The way you remit and receive funds from your sporting activity is important. Mastercard
Perhaps the most popular payment method for funding online casinos in Canada and the global market is the credit/debit cards payment method. And when it comes to credit/debit cards, Mastercard is one of the oldest and most reputable ones you will find online. When you go online to gamble, you will find that almost all online casinos accept deposits and withdrawals through Mastercard.
Reasons for its Popularity
Here are some of the reasons why Mastercard remains one of the most popular payment methods for players in Canada:
Mastercard allows high limits transactions, meaning that players can deposit or withdraw huge amounts of money at any time.
Due to its popularity, Mastercard is available at virtually every online casino that caters to Canadian players.
Mastercard provides top-rated safety measures such as fraud detection technology, secure code password protection, and others to keep players safe from intruders.
With Mastercard, deposits occur instantaneously, and though it may take a while depending on online casinos, withdrawals are also fast.
Mastercard ensures that their services are only available at licensed and legit online casinos.
VISA
With roots dating as far back as 1958, Visa is arguably the oldest, largest, and most used payment method in the digital world today. It is considered one of the most reliable and easy-to-use credit/debit card payment methods for making deposits and withdrawals at online casinos in Canada. Like the Mastercard method, almost every online casino worth its salt accepts Visa.
Reasons for its Popularity
Don’t make the mistake of assuming that Visa is only prevalent in the Canadian market because it happens to be one of the oldest forms of online payment method on the market. On the contrary, it is popular because it offers a wide range of benefits to its users.
Some of these benefits include:
Visa gives its users access to credit.
Visa provides deposit and withdrawal transactions with little to no fees from casinos.
Visa provides fast transactions for both deposits and withdrawals. Deposits are instant, while withdrawal may take some extra time.
As one of the most well-known payment methods globally, Visa is security conscious, and its services come with the best security measures, making transactions safe and secure for players.
Ecopayz
Ecopayz is a global payment solutions provider that offers instant, safe, and reliable payment services to Canada and the international market. Established in 2002, Ecopayz is one of the longest established e-wallets in the world. Like most e-wallets, ecoPayz acts as a gateway between your bank account and your online casino account, allowing you to fund your account without providing your financial information effortlessly. With two decades of experience in the financial industry, ecoPayz is an experienced player in the digital payment industry, offering its services to more than 155 countries and supporting more than 50 currencies. So naturally, many casinos in Canada support this payment method, and it is among the most popular options you will find in Canada’s online gambling market.
Reasons for its Popularity
Ecopayz has been providing payment services to casino players in Canada for many years now. Below are some of the reasons why it is very popular:
You can use ecoPayz for both deposits and withdrawal transactions, which is not the case for many banking methods.
Transactions at casinos using ecoPayz are quick and easy, with deposits occurring instantly and withdrawals being instant up to a few hours.
Using Ecopayz adds an extra layer of protection for players as their financial information is never shared when players pay online.
Ecopayz uses the latest security and fraud protection technology.
By using electronic operational and physical security measures, ecoPayz protects players against viruses, spyware, and attacks from hackers.
Paysafecard
Rounding up our list of popular casino payment methods in the Canadian market is the world’s most popular online prepaid payment method, Paysafecard. Paysafecard is a prepaid online payment method that provides shoppers and online casino players with 16-digit PIN code vouchers, which they can use to make payments online. Customers can buy these vouchers from local sales outlets that sell them. They come in these amounts in Canada: 10, 30, 50, 100, 150, 0r 250 CAD. Naturally, the card also works with online casinos, and you will find that tons of online casinos support this method as a means of processing payment transactions.
The best part about the Paysafecard payment method is that it is entirely independent of bank accounts and credit cards and does not require you to provide your personal information. The only downside is that you can only use the Paysafecard for making deposits and cannot use it to make withdrawals.
Reasons for its Popularity
Here are some of the reasons why Paysafecard is popular in the Canadian casino market:
The Paysafecard does not require players to provide any personal, bank, or credit card information.
The prepaid principle of the Paysafecard guarantees absolute security when you are making deposits online.
Depositing with Paysafecard is quick and easy.
Paysafecard does not give the means of overdrawing funds, thereby giving players some form of forced control over their spending.
Other notable mentions include:
MuchBetter
iDebit
Instadebit
Neosurf
American Express
 By Pepper Parr
August 16th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
We asked Tammy Fox, Executive Director of the Performing Arts Centre if it was safe to say that the Jazz on the Patio event was a SOLD OUT occasion?
 Elise LeGrow letting it fly – check the specs. Want to hear a Happy Voice response?
Yes every performance sold out. Incredible weather. Couldn’t have asked for a more rewarding return to live music!
Hopefully there will be more in the way of outdoor music. The people of Burlington need something to make them feel good.
 Can a da – remember – it was THE theme song that pulled the country together during Expo 67 Maybe Tammy Fox could impersonate the late Bobby Gimby and lead a small band along Brant Street and out to the end of the Pier.
 By Pepper Parr
August 15th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
And they are off!
The Prime Minister met with the Governor General this morning and she granted his request that the 43rd session of Parliament be dissolved and a federal election take place on September 20th, this despite voting with in May with nearly all MPs against a pandemic election saying at the time “nobody wants an election before the end of this pandemic.”
The Gazette now has a team that will cover the election in a way we have not been able to do in the past.
Contributing editor Ray Rivers will comment regularly on how the election campaign plays out while Ryan O’Dowd and Max Bowder will be in the field covering candidates from at least four political parties in the three constituencies that make up Burlington.
 Prime Minister takes the family to ask the Governor General to dissolve Parliament. How could she say no to the wife and kids? The Prime Minister wants a majority – does his political career came to a close if her doesn’t get one? And who would replace him?
Big questions, big issues.
 By Staff
August 14th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Part 2 of a two part story on what the people of Burlington feel about an election call
With the whiff of an election in the air, the Gazette decided to send a team of reporters out into the streets to hear what the public had to say.
The team, made up of Max Bowder and Ryan O’Dowd, covered all six wards and approached people asking:
Do you think there should be a federal election?
Depending on the answer they followed up with:
Why or why not.
Bowder covered the Northen part of the city – everything north of Fairview.
We asked the team to get as many responses as possible – we wanted some depth to what people thought – thus the length. Some people didn’t want to give names; some locations were better than others. Bowder was asked to leave the library where he was interviewing people
The responses Bowder got were: Good idea to call for an election: 7
Bad idea to call for an election: 28
No opinion: 7
Individually here are his results.
No, I don’t think it is necessary and I won’t vote for him – male
No, we have enough problems – Steve, male
 When looking for man/woman on the street interviews you go to where there are people – supermarkets and LCBO outlets. No, when the election is called, it takes priority away from covid and instead on what’s best for the candidate … with low vaccine rates it is not a good time and we should want to wait until 90% of the country is vaccinated – Samir, male
No, with everything else going on, it’s just the wrong timing – Male
I don’t know if it’s the best time for it because I think there is still two years before they are required call an election, so I guess no – female
I don’t really have an opinion on it – female
No because I think it’s a political maneuver on his part (Justin Trudeau), I just heard on the news how much it will cost for the election, 610 million dollars! I mean, we are in huge debt as it is – female
Absolutely he should – female
That would be nice, politically it’s something I don’t really … I could go on for a long time with this so that why I can’t give you a straight answer for that one to be honest … I just don’t argue about politics with other people – Dave, Male,
No, I’m not really sure – female
No, I think he (Justin Trudeau) thinks he could win; I’m worried he could win again. – female
No, I feel like he (Justin Trudeau) will lose if he does it. – male
No, there’s enough going on right now, we don’t need to go to the polls. – female
No, I think he should do something else, focus on getting people back on track. We’ll see what happens, I wouldn’t be surprised because He’s taking advantage of the opportunity and again why not? – Gabe, female, ward 5
No definitely not – female
Uh its ok – female
No, too many things going on – Chris, male
I don’t know I guess so? You know what in all honesty I don’t know about that – Christina, female
No, our intent should be trying to get us out of this – female
Sure, not really, I think it’s time for change, I don’t know if he will win – female, Oakville
No, because there is too much going on, there’s too much covid and everything – female
Yes, actually I think he should be governing … but if Hes (Justin Trudeau) trying to win back a majority, I don’t know … my personal feelings, I hope he gets voted out- Julius, male, North Carolina
I don’t know enough to comment. For politicians it is [for liberals] think they will get a majority, that’s what I’m guessing – Ray, male Oakville
Uuuhhhhhh no, I don’t know – male
No, too expensive no question … he (Justin Trudeau) should focus on the economy you know, we gotta get people back to work – Mark, male
Doesn’t matter, I’m indifferent – Donna, female
No, Well I’m a conservative sooo, in the middle of a pandemic it does make a whole lot a sense to the prime minister, it’s a waste of twenty million dollars. – Dave, male
No, sorry I don’t understand – female
No, He’s (Justin Trudeau) only calling an election at this time because you know He’s kinda favored right now and he doesn’t get my vote – Victoria, female
I do, I think that what He’s done in over the pandemic and uh just what he has been doing as a prime minister I think gives him the right to say what he sees happening and I trust his judgement on that, and I think what are people waiting for? I don’t understand that, for things to get better? For things to get smoother? for the pandemic to go away. I don’t believe that’s going to happen I think if the newspapers could stop talking about the fourth pandemic, I think things are going to go into more and more chaos, I think H
He’s really done a great job. He’s made mistakes of course he has but who the hell is going to take over for him (Justin Trudeau)!? – Margo, female, ward 4
Honestly, he (Justin Trudeau) has to call it sometime so why not tomorrow? – Racheal, female
I don’t know, probably not because of covid it’s not worth it even if he gets a majority – Cindy, Female Oakville
I think so, Hes (Justin Trudeau) in a good position to… if he can do it, he should – Stu, male
Yea it is, he should try to get a majority – male
I wouldn’t think so with all of this happening do you really think people are in the mood to go out and vote? – female
No timing is not the best … well there’s the pandemic and everything’s really confusing – Debbie, female,
Um for him (Justin Trudeau) it’s the right choice – Dick, male
No, there is more pressing issues like the huge amount of debt the government has put on the country’s books, both for your generation and mine, none of the political parties are discussing how to pay back the debt, – Tom, male
Either way probably not, no great concerns, I just don’t know that it is necessary, that’s more than the whole thing. I think things are going as well as they can given the, excuse my language, shit storm. We’re just in survival mode as a country and a civilization. – Steve, male
No, there’s bigger issues going on right now, Steve(different one), male
No, not the time Eyaz, male
No, I think its just poor timing with covid and everything and I’m not the fan of our prime minister, I don’t agree with a lot of what he’s done – Paul, male
I haven’t really thought of it – female
Uh that’s a good question I don’t know, at this point no, probably not. I don’t know why they are doing it well I do know but its up to them I guess. – female
No because I think there is too much going on right now. – Jennifer , female
No, its not the time. – female
We have a follow up report on what Ryan O’Dowd learned in the Southern part of the city.
Max Bowder reporrts: “Most people feel that this is not the best time to have an election while in the middle of COVID and there are other things The Prime Minister can be focusing on such as the economy. Many also believe the Prime Minister is only calling this election, hoping win back a majority government for his handling of the pandemic.”
 Max Bowder is a second year journalism student at Sheridan College. He is part of a team with the Gazette on the Local Journalism Initiative funded by the federal government. Before enrolling at Sheridan Max volunteered in a community in Argentina where he worked with young people. He is a Burlington resident who helps out on the family farm in Milton.
By Staff
August 15th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Part 1 of a two part story on what the people of Burlington feel about an election call
With the whiff of an election in the air, the Gazette decided to send a team of reporters out into the streets to hear what the public had to say.
The team, made up of Max Bowder and Ryan O’Dowd, covered all six wards and approached people asking:
Do you think there should be a federal election?
Depending on the answer they followed up with:
Why or why not.
We asked the team to get as many responses as possible – we wanted some depth to what people thought – thus the length. Some people didn’t want to give names; some locations were better than others.
 If you want to get a cross section of opinion in Burlington Brant and Lakeshore is as good a place as any. Ryan O’Dowd covered the southern part of the city to learn how the public felt about an expected election call.
In a separate story we published the results of what Max Bowder learned in the area north of Fairview.
Here is what Ryan O’Dowd learned:
I’m fairly ambivalent about it but it’s clear Trudeau is trying to get the election in before the economy tanks.- Roy
I think the tail end of a pandemic is a bad and weird time for a power grab. But it gives me a chance to vote out a Prime Minister I quickly soiree on after initially voting for him.-Alex
This isn’t the time to focus on an election, I worry about what will happen if a fourth wave is handled poorly.-Jira
I get what he’s trying to do, he’s trying to present a united front on COVID and get everyone on the same page. But the countries debt is already an issue before election spending.-Cathy
No, it’s just a power grab.-Bruce
Seems like an election call right now would be a power grab by Trudeau. But we’re all screwed anyway so who cares.-Kevin
Any other politician would do the same, I’m not a Trudeau fan but this is hardly reason why.-Lisa
I support it, it’s a bit soon but people have been revisiting their values during the pandemic, so people may want something else from their government.-Gabriel
No, I don’t trust any of the candidates and were in a pandemic.-Drew
I think it’s wise on his part considering people following his guidelines and being financially supported outweighs people who challenged his direction. Although the dark parts of Canadian history recently brought to light and alot of people aren’t agreeing with his response. I personally wouldn’t vote for Trudeau but if it happens he’s got a good shot.-Taylor
I wouldn’t support an election and I don’t think they will go through with the plans. No one is happy about it and COVID numbers are up.-Mark
There’s a lot of reasons to criticize Trudeau, that he’s calling an election when he thinks he can win is not one.-Michelle
 Finding people to interview led reporters to shopping locations – Appleby Mall proved to be very good place to meet people. There is no good reason for an election, I can’t support a power grab during a pandemic- Kim
No, I don’t like any of the candidates and probably won’t vote- anonymous
I don’t support a federal election call at all because it’s a waste of resources that could be used in a more productive manner.-David
I do, we need to vote Trudeau out to stop more lockdowns and vaccine passports-Jean
If the election takes place during a fourth wave it will blow up in Trudeau’s face- Megan
No, Trudeau is threatening people’s health to win- Mike
It’s irresponsible to have an expensive election given our debt and it will be dangerous- Karen
Opposition to the election is partisan, if conservatives thought they could win they’d be all for it, but they aren’t confident- Raheem
No and I hope all parties lose.- anonymous
Yes. People criticize Trudeau for calling it as a power grab but how Canada does post-COVID is incredibly important. It seems like a good time to reevaluate the countries leadership.-Ed
No, it’s a waste of time, there are much more important things to focus on right now.-Jacqueline
I don’t support the election, people are still scared of COVID, it’s their number one priority. Trudeau is using that as a power grab and it’s not right.-Mina
Why not? Conservatives want to lift mandates, they want the country to be open just not for an election they’ll likely lose. Making this an issue of safety now is convenient. It’s a power grab but that’s nothing new.-Carol
No. I’m worried the election will politicize the pandemic even more. I don’t want people to think being anti-vax or mask is a political stance as opposed to just being anti-science. I’m worried this will come up alot.-anonymous
No. Things are hard enough right now, I don’t have time to pay attention to politics.- Devon
I think it’s a pointless election but I can’t blame Trudeau for capitalizing on weak opposition. That these other parties have poor leadership is something they should worry about rather than complaining about the election.-Austin
No. He’s just trying to get people on CERB to vote to keep it going, and we can’t afford that.-Sam
No, mostly because I don’t like any of the candidates. Trudeau never follows through on anything and the current conservative party is a mess.- Mark H.
Across Burlington reactions to the election call were mixed. Many were unhappy about the election citing economic issues and safety concerns, but above all people were put off by the optics with what many dubbed an opportunistic power grab. And while many found the calling of the election unnecessary, most recognized it’s importance.
 Ryan O’Dowd is a Sheridan College journalism student who is part of a federally funded Local Journalism Initiative that will have him reporting for the Gazette well into 2022. He is a Burlington native who plays the guitar.
 By Staff
August 15th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
On Thursday of last week Milton MP Adam Joseph van Koeverden arrived at the vaccination centre in that community to tell the public Canada now had more than enough in the way of inoculation doses to ensure everyone would be able to get vaccinated twice.
 Burlington |Mayor Marianne Meed Ward tells Burlington MP Karina Gould she is grateful for the Grindstone Creek funding. On Friday MP and Cabinet Minister Karina Gould issued a statement at the Rock Garden in Hamilton announcing that the federal government had come up with $579, 000 from the Great Lakes Action Plan V – Great Lakes Sustainability Fund for the RBG’s Wetland Rehabilitation Program and the City of Burlington’s Grindstone Creek Erosion Control Planning.
RBG will be receiving $425,000 for their program, while the City will be receiving $154,000.
 Oakville Burlington North MP Pam Damoff We had no report on what Oakville Burlington North MP Pam Damoff was up to; many of her supporters were waiting for a decision from the federal government on who was going to appear on the next version of the $5 bill. The hope was that it would be of Terry Fox as he ran his historic run through Burlington 41 years ago.
All the political activity underlined the widely held expectation that there would be a federal election in the fall.
The announcement is expected today.
 By Pepper Parr
August 13th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington and development have for the past five years been in one of those awkward relationships.
The city wants development, the developers want to build – the problem has been what kind of development and where.
It became a menage a trois when the province said that we had to grow – big time. More housing for more people with not much in the way of space for the traditional single family house with a nice back yard that made Burlington what it is today.
Those that live in the southern part of the city didn’t want to see dozens of high rise towers taking over.
The developers wanted their buildings to be in the downtown core where the pricey condos were being built.
The argument got intense from about 2015 to the 2018 election when the issue was the boundary for the Urban Growth Centre.
Set out below is the boundary that was in place when the current city council was elected.
 The Urban Growth Boundary that is in the Official Plan that is in force now went through a number of changes. The colours define the different precincts the city is divided into. A precinct is an area that has zoning and development rules unique to that area. Marianne Meed Ward convinced people that she could get hat boundary changed and while the fight isn’t over yet – there are new Urban Growth Centre boundaries in place and once the Official Plan gets completely approved – it is currently in the hands of the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs – where it is expected to be approved – all it has to do is get through the appeals process – there are 40 some odd organizations appealing – it becomes the law of the land.
Meed Ward was adamant from day 1 – the boundary has to be changed.
This is what the Urban Growth Centre boundary is going to look like.
 Boundaries for the Urban Growth Centre that are part of the approved but not in force Official Plan. Now slide back up and look at what was in place before a new city council set out to make a change
A huge difference – and the credit for much of it belongs to the Mayor. She was thee one who pushed and pushed and did her best not to budge an inch.
It was no small feat.
Meed Ward did not do this alone – what she did was lead the five newcomers to council, who for the most part were on her side when they were first elected, and then supported what she was setting out to do.
The Gazette has a number of differences with how this first term Mayor has handled and portrayed herself; Lord Acton had it right when he said: “Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Time will tell if Marianne Meed Ward can catch herself before she falls. None of this should take away from what she did in getting that Urban Growth Boundary moved north,
Salt with Pepper is the musings, reflections and opinions of the publisher of the Burlington Gazette, an online newspaper that was formed in 2010 and is a member of the National Newsmedia Council.
 By Pepper Parr
August 13th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The small details are what often reveal what is underneath the surface.
A community where people pick up after other – when there is a candy wrapper on the ground they pick it up, tuck it into their pocket and throw it away when they come across a waste container.
When crossing a busy street and an older person is spotted they pause and ask if they can walk across with them because the crossing light might be just a little short on the time it gives.
 A very attractive fountain has been repaired and refurbished. Some of the cultural history now on display There is a fountain that now sits in the small park immediately to the north of city hall where the Cenotaph stands and where there are a couple of Vimy Oaks taking in the sun and doing their osmosis thing.
The fountain is older than the city. It was paid for by citizens who wanted to commemorate the life of King Edward VII – the closest he ever got to Burlington was Niagara Falls.
The citizens if the city were God and Country first people proud that they were part of the British Empire.
 Looking very imperial, King Edward ruled at the end of the Victorian Age when the British Empire ruled the world. Some of the official portraits of Edward VII – first son of Queen Victoria ) are resplendent – a true representation of his time. He wouldn’t get the time of day now – that was then.
The fountain was first located next to the Royal Theatre on Lakeshore Road – tucked in between the theatre and what was then a Royal Bank.
It was later moved to Spencer Smith Park where is was on display for a long period of time – (no one seems to have exact dates) then when natural decay took over it was put in storage.
In 1977 the Optimist Club put up the money to have it refurbished and this time it was placed next to city hall in a space that will be given a new name later in the year.
The fountain which has water troughs at its base that seem a little small for a horse to drink from – some doubt that a horse ever drank from the fountain.
 A metal band at the top of the fountain explaining the what and why of the Fountain All no matter – the King Edward VII fountain is back in place; rust removed, holes patched and a glistening coat of paint making it just as attractive today as it was when it was first unveiled.
Although the fountain hearkens back to the days of colonialism, it is rightly situated near the Cenotaph in Veteran Square where the Remembrance Day ceremonies are held. Proof positive that Burlington does try to respect and keep its heritage – they are the kind of people who pick up those candy wrappers.
Related news story.
Fountain finally going to get the attention it needs.
 By Pepper Parr
August 13th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Who was the employee at the Joseph Brant Hospital who told a patient waiting in the emergency area to “stop inter fearing” when she was asked if a blanket could be brought out for a women appearing to be in serious pain and shivering in the wheel chair?
Another patient waiting in the Emergency area saw the woman who was reported to be “shivering severely” and asked an attend walking by if she could get a blanket for the woman.
 A hospital is a place where caring is all that really counts – everything flows from that. The attendant paused and appeared to be about to walk on when the person that reported the behaviour to the Gazette said quite loudly “she needs a blanket” at which point the attendant got a blanket, wrapped it around the shivering patent and then said “stop inter fearing”.
The Joseph Brant Hospital is better than that. If the people working there can’t care for people – try finding another job.
The vast majority of the people who work at the hospital are caring people – this was an exception. It is the exceptions that do the damage
By Clair Wood
August 12th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Gambling dates back to long before written history. The earliest dice date from around 3000 BC! Despite gambling stretching back for millennia, acts of gambling are still prohibited in various countries today, and many people believe there should be tighter restrictions in countries where gambling is legal. While the vast majority of people who enjoy gambling do so sensibly and only ever bet what they can afford to lose, purely as a form of entertainment, some gamblers become addicted and experience mental and financial problems. Many forms of gambling are legal in Canada. One area of concern for some is online casinos. Let us take a closer look at the good and the bad of online gambling in Canada.
The Legality of Online Gaming
Various forms of online gambling are legal in Canada, but the legislation surrounding online casinos is rather complex. In basic terms, casino operators cannot operate on Canadian soil but domestic players can legally play a wide variety of online gambling games like roulette and blackjack offered by offshore operators such as the excellent Casinoroom.com.
 Some Canadians believe a good option would be to make homegrown online casinos legal in the country so that tighter regulations and rules could be implemented. The Bad
A recent Canadian Atlantic Lottery Corporation report states that gambling has the ability to cause harm. Furthermore, the Responsible Gaming Council has recently stated that there should be a link to outline whether gambling addictions stem from specific paths. The report included an outline to help deploy frameworks and strategies that will assist gamblers in knowing when to stop. Unfortunately, neither report was published in full publicly. But we do know some of the concerns that the reports raise.
One of the biggest concerns is the ease of access that gamblers have to online casinos. Issues about mental health are also raised. Other highlights include the suggestion that young people, particularly males, are at high risk of facing gambling problems and that patterns of addiction could lead people to substance abuse. The reports also call for Canada to follow the United Kingdom’s approach to credit cards. In April 2020, the UK’s Gambling Commission banned the use of all credit cards for any form of gambling, both online and offline. The reason is simple: when people have access to credit, they could gamble more and potentially become addicted and also much more easily fall into debt.
The Good
While all of the above concerns are very valid and need to be carefully considered, there are already rules and programs in place in Canada to help prevent people from becoming addicted to gambling or running into financial problems because of their gambling. Though whether more could be done is still up for debate. Some Canadians believe a good option would be to make homegrown online casinos legal in the country so that tighter regulations and rules could be implemented.
Regardless, the conclusions and recommendations on the above reports state there is no evidence that online gambling poses a big risk that leads to problematic gambling. It does seem that only a few players are at risk in comparison to the huge number of people who simply enjoy playing casino games and betting online. Furthermore, the Finance Minister has pledged that online gambling funds forwarded by the Atlantic Lottery Corporation will be used to support people with mental health and gambling addiction problems. So, some good is undoubtedly happening in Canada due to raising awareness about the risks of gambling.
How to Win It All
Whilst everyone likes winning, it should not be your one and only purpose when gambling online. If it is, it could lead you down the path to obsession and addiction. Most people simply enjoy the many gambling activities that are available online, from sports betting to playing roulette. If you win, it is a bonus.
By Pepper Parr
August 12th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
 People’s PArty – It was always about Mx A usually reliable source and someone plugged into the political pulse of the city asked this morning if we knew of a person named “Jonathan Earl” who is reportedly running for the Peoples Party in the next federal election.
Anyone know the man and where we might find him?
By Pepper Parr
August 12th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The definition appeared in a media release from the city’s communications department.
I had never seen something like this before.
2SLGBTQIA+ (TwoSpirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual)
This expansion of the acronym to refer to the community has gone too far.
 The symbols are important -let’s not demean them with acronyms that lead to ridicule. The fight to get the Pride community the respect it deserves has been long and hard; it has taken decades to get to the point where the community is recognized and not shunned, dismissed, shamed and hurt.
The political leadership has once again gotten over-enthusiastic and in the process hurt the people she chooses to speak for.
The Pride Community can speak for itself.
Gazette readers are commenting – some examples.
 Brave step – smart move. One in every ward in the fullness of time. Agreed (name withheld). “I do not have the time of day for this passive aggressive approach orchestrated by the mayor. She created the survey (not staff). Now there are 2 rainbow crosswalks in Ward 2 and not one of them is in front of city hall. She will hide behind the survey results but we all know what her goal was.”
Another reader wrote: “I was surprised to see the latest permutation of inclusivity symbols in this article (2SLGB….+). While I am fully in favour of demonstrations of support for people struggling to find their identity, there is a danger of going to extremes to include more and more subsets until everyone finds their own personal home. And let’s not forget there is another axis of identity being explored these days based on race, heritage, language and age. At some point our whole view of our society becomes a jumble of alphanumeric compartments that render it meaningless, while activists in each group clamor for special attention. Thus we become divided, not united.”
 What the Halton Regional Police Service did was dignified and appropriate. Let’s continue to raise the Pride flag and when we see instances of discrimination personally do everything we can to put a stop to it.
Support the Pride Community the way you would like your community to be supported.
Why the city communications department went to the lengths it did is both surprising and disappointing.
Salt with Pepper is the musings, reflections and opinions of the publisher of the Burlington Gazette, an online newspaper that was formed in 2010 and is a member of the National Newsmedia Council.
By Staff
August 12th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Ontario Liberal Leader, Steven Del Duca got it right when he congratulated the Prime Minister for stepping up and pledging a secure vaccination certification tool.
 Ontario Liberal Leader, Steven Del Duca Del Duca, the leader without a seat in the Legislature, wants Doug Ford to immediately begin working with the federal Liberal Government to get this right.
“Ontario Liberals” said Del Duca, “have been fighting for this responsible public health measure for weeks while Doug Ford has pandered to his fringe anti-vaxxer supporters. This is about protecting our most vulnerable, stopping a fourth wave, and keeping Ontario open for good.”
 By Staff
August 12th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
While the provision of housing, no matter what the price or rental rate, is not part of the mandate the city has – it is a Regional responsibility – Burlington is nevertheless developing a Housing Strategy be housing people is a top priority in the current city council.
 All those white spaces represent new apartment buildings that are in the planning stage. Will people be able to afford to live in them? The objective is to provide current and future residents with more housing options. The Housing Strategy is an opportunity to develop creative and innovative solutions for housing issues in Burlington that will build on and support the Region’s Housing Strategy.
The City is looking for resident feedback to help understand your experience finding a suitable, affordable, safe and accessible housing in Burlington through an online survey HERE
The survey is open now until Sept. 3, 2021. It provides an opportunity to share your experiences, challenges and ideas to enhance understanding of housing in Burlington.
The information collected by this survey will be used to support statistical information, like the Statistics Canada’s Census, to help the City to identify housing issues, gaps and the housing needs of Burlington residents to support the development of a Housing Strategy.
 Some of the data collected in the first survey This is the second survey in the Housing Strategy project. In March 2021, as part of the Housing Strategy Launch, the first Housing Strategy survey was released. This initial survey collected information about housing concerns in Burlington and sought feedback on how stakeholders would like to be engaged throughout the Housing Strategy Project.
The feedback from the first Housing Strategy survey helped us understand people’s interest in housing issues in Burlington. The feedback from the first survey is summarized in the Housing Survey Launch Feedback Report presented to Council in April 2021. This information was used to inform the Housing Strategy project’s Engagement Plan.
Mark Simeoni, Director of Community Planning, Regulation and Mobility is one of the more attuned to the community and its needs than most of the other Directors on the payroll. Burlington poached him from Oakville. The man listens and hears what people say. He will be a strong participant in the development of whatever the city comes up with.
 Expect the Mayor to talk about the need for more affordable and attainable housing during the 2022 election campaign – that assumes she will be challenged. Mayor Marianne Meed Ward has made housing both affordable and attainable an issue you can expect her to focus on during the forthcoming election campaign next year. That assumes she is challenged.
“Affordable housing is one of the biggest crises of our time. That’s partly because affordability is no longer linked to income, and supply is taken up by investments. Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. We will do our part in Burlington using the tools we have. We will also need all hands on- deck, from other levels of government, the private sector, and the non-profit sector.
“No one entity, public or private, can solve the housing crisis alone. Our local Housing Strategy carves out the City’s role to ensure we do our part to the fullest. Our strategy will also identify partners and stakeholders critical to success, ensuring we don’t leave a single stone unturned in helping our current and future residents make one of the most important decisions of their lives and that’s finding a place to live.”
 Mark Simeoni, Director of Community Planning, Regulation and Mobility Mark Simeoni, Director of Community Planning, Regulation and Mobility is one of the more attuned to the community and its needs than most of the other Directors on the payroll. Burlington poached him from Oakville. The man listens and hears what people say. He will be a strong participant in the development of whatever the city comes up with.
By Pepper Parr
August 12th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
We ran a piece yesterday announcing the Green Party candidate whose people suggested that an election call might come as early as next week.
 The next election isn’t due until sometime in 2023.
There is no valid reason to call an election at this time. The country is doing just fine with the current minority Liberal government.
The Conservative Opposition cannot get itself elected; the federal New Democrats couldn’t from a government in the very unlikely event that they did get elected.
The federal Green Party may not be a political party if they continue with the internal squabbles.
The only reason for an election is the Prime Minister wanting a majority government.
 David Peterson called an unnecessary election in 1990 because he thought he would win. Ran a terrible campaign and lost. David Peterson tried that stunt in 1990 and it cost him the government he had.
 Governor General Mary Simon Canada has a new Governor General – what little we have seen of Mary Simon suggests she might suggest that the Prime Minister go back to his office and think about it should he decide to pay her a visit asking that she dissolve parliament.
When the Liberal Caucus meets (virtually) are there Members of Parliament with the courage to tell the Prime Minister that an election now is a mistake.
Given the polls we are seeing there is no certainty that the Liberals could win a majority.
Ending up with another minority would be reason enough for Justin Trudeau to offer his resignation.
Salt with Pepper is the musings, reflections and opinions of the publisher of the Burlington Gazette, an online newspaper that was formed in 2010 and is a member of the National Newsmedia Council.
Max Bowder: Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
August 12th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington is a city full of young families which means I am always surrounded by selfless people willing to help each other in their time of need.
Many Burlington businesses are in a time of need, especially the hospitality sector. Others are glad to be back at work with an economy that is opening up and shifting away from the risk of having to shut down – again. Some don’t see another huge spike in Covid cases.
 Value Village is back to where it was before the pandemic hit the city. “We have been reopened since June 17… we are now back to business as usual,” said Value Village manager Beau Kowanetz.
In an attempt to help small businesses, the business Burlington Economic Development Team has supported business with website development and access to grants.
Clothing stores needed to adapt to online purchasing because all trade shows were shut down.
 Carol Boyko, owner of the Bocana Boutique is putting in 16 hour days and learning to use the internet to advertise. “We’re doing virtual zoom meetings to look at new clothing collections … that’s an issue on its own because you cannot feel and touch the merchandise,” said Bocana Boutique owner Carol Boyko.
Boyko has had to put in 16 hour days in order to keep her business alive while learning all about online advertising.
Though difficult as it was her resolve is better than ever and although she is praying and is optimistic about not going into lockdown again, she has contingency plans ready for if businesses are forced to close. .
The reason I think Burlington has done so well is because the people of this city have a great, rare universally shared mentality that I have not seen since visiting Argentina where I worked for a short period of time.
People in this city do not look for someone to blame for the problems; something that is easily done in societies that are divided by opinions. Burlingtonians don’t think of problems that have to be changed by someone but rather people in this city analyze the issue, ask what needs to be done to get through it and diligently and patiently surmount the issue without panic turning instead to hard work.
Being in Burlington means being in a place that is peaceful but also where my responsibilities are not too far away. Burlington is a city that lets me enjoy the seclusion of the country and wilderness but also where I can become more active in my community, find stable work and conveniently attend college.
Burlington as I see it is a city that has maintained its spirit, optimism and its joys; it shows the same spirits of the people who looks past excuses and focus on solutions.
When Covid hit Burlington the people were disappointed that our lives had come to a stop but they were not surprised; they watched the news and knew it was only a matter of time – unlike so many in the United States who rejected reality or looked for someone to blame.
 The Burlington Food Bank provides food for families that have been financially damaged by the pandemic. Citizens donate to keep the operation going.healthy I see Burlington as a city of people who give care to its family and support to those who need it and are doing everything that needs to be done to end the pandemic soon.
Burlington residents have found themselves coping quite well with the pandemic – they feel they have it better than most.
“I think we’ve been doing very well, said parent Amy Cohen.
“Parents are looking forward to in-class learning for their children in the fall and with a keen sense of returning to normalcy.
“Parents enjoy taking their children out to Orchard Community Park and allowing kids to play at the water parks and not wearing masks but still keeping socially distanced and limited people on playground at a time.
 The Orchard as a community has pulled together to get families through a problem they never expected to have to deal with. With people coming out to be vaccinated in large numbers and the city slowly but surely opening up, residents are seeing the end in sight believing the pandemic to be over soon.
With the majority of residents vaccinated and plans to have their children vaccinated as soon as Covid19 vaccines are approved for younger ages.
“I think [the schools] are doing the best they can, given the amount of notice they have been given,” Cohen continued.
 Max Bowder is a second year journalism student at Sheridan College. He is part of a team with the Gazette on the Local Journalism Initiative funded by the federal government. Before enrolling at Sheridan Max volunteered in a community in Argentina where he worked with young people. He is a Burlington resident who helps out on the family farm in Milton.
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