 By Jocelyn Bell
April 7th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
What industries were some of the most profitable in 2020, and how are they achieving this? We took a closer look at three here!
The world of business is filled with so many interesting sectors nowadays, but there are still some that stand heads and shoulders above the rest. Let’s take a look at some of the most profitable industries operating this year.
 Profits come from growth and growth is the result of wise investing and patience. Image Source: Pixabay  The gaming industry that attracts a younger crowd has events that involves thousands of people from around the world. Gaming
Without a doubt, gaming is proving to be one of the biggest industries of the moment. Brands like Mr Green as a prime example are leading the expansion of safe betting and casino options across the USA and Canada. What’s more, there has been a massive boom in esports growth. It is slowly moving from being a niche hobby into a more mainstream business. With that will come bigger sponsorships and more opportunities for people in the industry.
 Gaming at casinos is also growing – especially for the on-line locations that put a gambler right at the table. The marketplace has so far exceeded $1 billion and this is just set to get bigger. Top matches are also pulling in figures akin to major sports events like a FIFA World Cup Final.
Even in the wider industry there are massive strides forward being made. Sony is lining up to release the PlayStation 5. Though we currently have little idea about when this release will be, it will hopefully be as innovative a release as its previous incarnations. Gaming as a whole is on the rise. Though many dismiss it as “just playing games”, this then leads to them missing out on some of the incredible opportunities available in this exciting development in the gaming universe.
 Development in the software field has sky-rocketed with public companies registering big price increases. The opportunities with private companies ready to go public are immense. Software Development
As we move towards a world that becomes more and more reliant on technology, we are going to need more software developers to help us achieve our goals. There have been many moves to introduce coding and other digital-based skills to young children in the classroom, so they can begin to pick up things that might help them when they are ready to enter the workplace later in life.
Not only have there been calls for software that covers a variety of new tasks within a workplace or home, but there have also been calls to make many more multi-purpose software hubs. Business owners don’t want to transfer data between multiple programs to get the results they need. They want to be able to plug everything into the one portal, so that they can get back results that have already been parsed and analyzed into a format they understand. Software developers are keen to meet these demands, and it makes for an incredibly profitable industry.
Property
 Homes in many markets are selling well above the asking price. Major gains are being made. With property prices moving up at an incredible rate, there is no better time to be involved in the real-estate business. In the Burlington area alone, sale prices are up 17% compared to the beginning of 2019. There are lots of opportunities at both ends of the market here. Developers who want to focus on the high-end, luxury market will find plenty of things to play with. There are always new property trends and new tech that you can introduce to the right property.
At the other end of the scale, you could choose to work in the affordable housing markets. There is and always will be a need for affordable property. This sector will help to create homes and houses for those who need them the most. Choosing to get involved with this area of the real estate sector is incredibly charitable, and it could result in some brilliant business dealings for anyone brave enough to try.
These are just three of the many industries proving to be profitable in 2020. No matter where you look, there is a way to make money in a sector. It will take a lot of hard work, and a great business idea, but it is more than possible. Start thinking about a business you could launch in one of the above sectors now.
 By Pepper Parr
April 7th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The Gazette saw the mention of some possible changes to public access to the piers at the Burlington canal.
 There is a Hamilton and a Burlington pier – and people should be permitted to use those piers There wasn’t much in the way of immediate response from the Member of Parliament Cabinet Minister Karina Gould. Today she released the following statement:
“Over the last few months I’ve heard from constituents regarding their concerns about the closure of the Burlington Canal Piers.
I have been in close contact with all relevant parties about how we can work together to have the Piers stay open, while also keeping residents safe.
I’m pleased that the cities of Hamilton and Burlington, as well as Transport Canada, have indicated a willingness to work on a solution to ensure that the Piers can remain open for public use while ensuring safety for all users.
There are ongoing conversations but we are all committed to working together to keep the piers accessible and safe.
I’d like to once again thank all of the constituents who have contacted my office to express their support. Your voices have been heard, and I will continue to advocate for our community.
As always, I still encourage everyone to stay safe on our waterfront and piers.”
That’s fine as far as it goes.
 Showing the way: Burlington MP Karina Gould has an opportunity to fully engage the public on the matter of access to the pier. During an interview with Minister Gould a number of months ago I recall the Minister saying that as a Cabinet Minister it enabled her to call meetings.
The Gazette would urge the Minister to call a public meeting, perhaps out on the pier where the public can ask questions and the bureaucrats can respond.
All the fresh breezes coming in off the lake would help with the six foot spaces.
The ‘where’ isn’t all that important – what is really vital is that there be a public meeting.
 By Denise Dalsgaard
April 7th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
This content is sponsored.
Being a VIP – that sounds nice to most – It makes you think of shining cars, red carpets and exclusivity. While there are no cars or red carpets in the online casino, being a VIP does offer a range of exclusive advantages for you as a person who enjoys attending the online black-jack table, playing the slot machines or any other games offered on your favorite online casino. Check Casinoclaw.com to figure out the ins and outs of VIP status in online casinos.
 Photo credit: Heather Gill Loyalty
Often you can be offered VIP status if you are a loyal customer. If you frequently use the same website, they know that you are trustworthy and that you are a good customer.
 Rewards for VIP members can be significant Some online casinos wish to offer good customersVIP-advantages, because they trust you, and they wish to keep you around.
That means, you can get a lot of great advantages doing what you were already doing before. You can usually build up loyalty with playing and betting more, but also if you refer your friends to your favorite sides. This will increase your VIP status.
Go other places
Most casinos have both tournaments, games and bonuses that are reserved for the VIP players. With a VIP access you will be able to play whole new games. This will expand your possibilities to play and have fun online. Sometimes the casinos also offer VIP players rewards as extra spins, cashbacks or extra tokens – what is not to like?
Build you status
29 casinos are a part of Casino Rewards Loyalty Program. This means that the credibility and status you build in one casino is transferable to the others. They work with six levels of VIP-status. As you gamble, have fun and play you will climb the ranks. In the beginning the advantages are small, but as you get more and more status, you will have a chance to win gift cards and hotel stays.
 Ask around at the casino you patronize about becoming a VIP member. How do you become a VIP?
It changes from site to site how you become a VIP member. Some casinos will have you sign on specifically and activate a vip-account, in some casinos you are automatically registered in a reward program and some casinos have invite only systems. If you are interested in all the advantages that comes with being a VIP-member, you will have to investigate how to be a VIP at your favorite online casino.
 By Pepper Parr
April 7th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Later today Premier Doug Ford will set out the details on a four week Stay at Home order.
We’ve been down this road before, which doesn’t make it easier.
The specifics of the order are not yet known – the Premier is expected to make an announcement during the day.
Reports are that the Stay at Home order will be effective at midnight.
Feeding people who are not able to get out is going to be just a little more difficult for the Food Bank.
 Former Mayor Goldring and his wife look on as the Burlington Teen Tour Band entertains hundreds at the Performing Arts Centre. Unfortunately, due to the lock-down measures last Saturday the Teen Tour Band Boosters Spring Food Drive was postponed – groups outdoors need to be 5 or less so it made it impossible to proceed.
If you had picked up some food donations and weren’t able to drop off, please consider dropping them off in any grocery store’s food bank bin – or drop off at a local fire hall. You can even mark teen tour band on the bag and we can keep track of donations in lieu of the Teen Tour Band.
The Burlington Teen Tour Band is the oldest continually operating municipally-sponsored youth band in Canada and participates in many international parades, bursting with national pride. They have been Canada’s musical ambassadors since 1947.
Helping those who need help.
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 Matthew Gomes
April 5th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
How to win more with online gambling
 You can play responsibly from the comfort of your couch. While the thrill of playing your favourite games at a physical casino is real, sometimes, you might have to twist up your gaming a little bit and try out an online casino instead. Online casinos come packed with tons of benefits, the first on the list being the fact that you get to have quite a blast, right from the comfort of your house. In addition to this, online casinos boast tons of lucrative promos and bonuses, allowing you to take full advantage of some hot deals!
If you are eager to win big at an online casino, here are some CasinoTop10 Tips that you can consider:
Welcome Offer Package
Most online casinos will try their best to appeal to new customers by way of giving them sign up bonus offers. As you shop around for your favourite online casino, be sure to check out what offer they have in store for you.
Wagering Requirements
While a particular online casino’s welcome bonus offer might be seemingly lucrative, it is no use if the wagering requirements are too high to meet. Look for a platform that has relatively fair and easy to meet playthrough terms.
Consider your choice of games
Understandably, you might feel the need to try out as many games as possible, hoping to increase your chances of winning. However fun it might be, this is not the best approach. It is advisable to choose a few of your favourites and stick to them. This gives you the opportunity to focus on those games, and with time, you will learn some tricks on how to win big on them.
 There are any number of on-line gaming locations – find the one that you are comfortable with and have fun. Practice on Demo mode
Most people live delving right into wagering, without necessarily taking their time to learn the details of how their online casino of choice operates. Seeing as most casinos allow game-play in demo mode, be sure to try it out before you can bet using your hard-earned real cash.
Game selection
Look for an online casino whose game selection is wide in the array. You don’t want to join a casino with limited games available. This gives you an opportunity to try out several games before you can settle for your favourite ones to focus on.
Choose a reputable site
Picking the right casino leaves you rest assured that there won’t be challenges with payouts and that your personal information is safe and secure.
Try out jackpot games
Most online casinos will have a range of Jackpot games available. Be sure to try them out seeing as great treasure awaits, especially on progressive Jackpots.
Ensure that you read all terms and conditions
While most people tend to ignore the details here, it is quite crucial to familiarize yourself with the various terms of your online casino of choice. This way, you get to learn how the site operates, including bet options, minimum deposits, as well as the rules of engagement on different games.
 Stick to your betting Budget
Agreeably, one might be tempted to bet more with each loss made. However, it is advisable to have a plan for your betting finances to avoid making even bigger losses.
Have a well-balanced betting strategy
Ensure that you use an appropriate betting strategy to ensure that you work with calculated risks. An example would be striking a balance between low and high-risk bets.
 By Staff
April 5th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
They have been doing it for 25 years – providing lush hanging baskets of flowers.
The event is part of a fund raiser where everyone wins. St. Matthews Church in Aldershot takes great pleasure in making these plants available.
A bright spot in a not so bright situation.
They go quite quickly. Get your order
 By Lana Petrovski
April 5th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Playing cards has been part of human civilization for at least a millennium, long before the dawn of technology. Even though many people associate cards with online casino games such as poker and blackjack, there are several themed card games that go beyond the standard 52-card deck.
 It is now all at your finger tips- you can play anywhere – safely. The good news is that you can also enjoy your favourite games on your new iPhone. Here are our Top five card themed games that you can download from the App Store today.
Hearthstone
Hearthstone is a card collection game from the studio that brought us World of Warcraft, and it sees players build decks with powerful cards to summon heroes and minions to gain control of a complex battlefield. Hearthstone merges skill and strategy with the joy of completing a set of characters as the battle unfolds.
 Kittens – a different approach to a game. Exploding Kittens
Probably one of the most successful Kickstarter stories to date, Exploding Kittens transitioned from a fun board game to an even more enjoyable online game. Essentially, this is a game of hot potato that combines equal measures of cute felines and total destruction. Exploding Kittens is a great multiplayer game that makes for a fun and enjoyable night with your mates.
Gwent: The Witcher Card Game
Gwent: The Witcher Card Game is a free-to-play digital collectable card game based on the infamous novel and video franchise. This turn-based game has simple rules for challenging gameplay to collect ‘power’ and win. The cards and game board burst with colour and animations, transporting players deep into this fantasy world as they work to defeat their enemies.
UNO!
Uno has been a family favourite card game for over three decades, and it is still loved by many! The mobile game version, UNO!, keeps the same rules and gameplay in Classic Mode, but also adds a 2v2 Mode where players can team up and strategize together.
 Includes fan favourite characters from the Seven Kingdoms that battle for control of the Iron Throne. Reigns: Game of Thrones
Reigns is a card simulator game set in a fictional medieval world where players need to rule over their kingdom by accepting or rejecting advice from their counsellors. Reigns: Game of Thrones keeps the basic rules of the Reigns franchise, but includes fan favourite characters from the Seven Kingdoms that battle for control of the Iron Throne.
By Staff
March 4th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
 Farmer Kearns Farmer Kearns – oops that was meant to read Lisa Kearns, ward 2 Councillor, was out on a pasture making an announcement.
There is going to be an “urban farm” on Brant Street at Ghent in the North West corner.
 A Molinaro development that is years away. The empty field will be turned into an urban farm. Kearns advises that the property is the subject of a development application submitted by the Molinaro Group.
Kearns explains that the development is years away and in the meantime a group asked for and has been given permission to set up an urban farm.
That got through city hall in record speed.
Not much more in the way of details – other than to say there are bales of how now set up on the property.
 Phase 1 of an Urban Farm – on Brant Street. Grow for Change a group that advocates for the farming community. They can be reached by email at grow4changes@gmail.com
They are reported to be looking for volunteers once everything is set up.
So if you own a pitchfork and farming trousers – stand by – someone is going to want you.
By Franz Kerl
April 5th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The surge in popularity for all types of gaming over the course of 2020 is a phenomenon that has already been discussed. This has been particularly noticeable in the online casino sector, which has benefited from more potential players being at a loose end at home, along with land-based alternatives facing temporary closures.
 Get into the game for as little as $1 Those within the industry have taken full advantage, and you need only take a glance at this site to see Canadian minimum deposit casinos compared and to get a picture of just how competitive a market this is becoming. The various platforms don’t purely focus on bonuses and free offers to tempt new members. They all have their own ways of trying to bring something extra special to the table, and one technology that has proved exceptionally popular has been live gaming. This is when the player is connected via webcam to a real dealer spinning the wheel or dealing the cards. But why has this proved to be such a major attraction?
An authentic experience
There is more to a night at the casino than the mechanics of a card game or a spinning wheel. Casino goers love the theatre of the blackjack table or the roulette wheel, and that is something that live casino manages to achieve, even in the online environment. Studios typically have multiple camera angles so you can see the action from every angle, while the croupiers are professionally trained.
Increased trust
 Today’s casinos are closely monitored and regulated by bodies like the Kahnawake gaming commission. Everyone knows that the games are not rigged and the random number generators can be trusted to give a fair game. But despite all that, players still feel more comfortable seeing a physical roulette wheel spinning, or watching a real dealer shuffle a real deck of cards. Ultimately, even in the technical world of the 2020s, we still trust another human being more than we trust a computer algorithm.
Social play
There has been lots of talk about social gaming over the past few months. It is important to appreciate that social games are about more than Words with Friends and the like. Is there any gaming experience more social than sitting at a blackjack table or jostling around the roulette wheel, chatting to the dealer and exchanging some banter with the other players? Live casino games allow you to do all that, just without the jostling, via the chat box on your screen.
 The game is live – you see everything you would see if you were in the gambling hall. Mobile connectivity
Live casino games have been around for a while, but it is only in the past year or so that the mobile infrastructure has been sufficient to allow you to play them from your smartphone. Given that mobile is now the platform of choice for more than 50 percent of all gaming, bringing the live casino experience to iOS and Android has been a crucial factor in it’s rising popularity. It is a phenomenon that will only increase.
 By Pepper Parr
April 3rd, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
While the city is taking a closer look at how to deal with the crowding problem in the Beachway a federal government is looking for ways to limit public access to the piers on both sides of the canal that separates Burlington from Hamilton.
The two piers reach more than 320 metres out into the lake. The federal Transportation wants to fence them off to prevent the public from walking out. The canal is overseen by the federal department of Transportation; in the words of Ward 1 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith, “it’s their asset and they get to do whatever they want”.
Burlington’s MP Karina Gould got wind of the Transportation plans – they probably ran what they had in mind past the Minister which got the issue to the city.
The Gazette learned about the plans more by luck than anything else. No direct word from the Minister, the Mayor or the ward Councillor.
We learn now that the idea of putting up fences and gates has been paused. Galbraith believes that it is just a matter of time before the federal people decide this is necessary and just go ahead and build.
 Tour boats made use of the canal and the public got out on them much of the time. There was a time when those piers were the point at which steam ships that were taking people on tours would tie up and take on passengers.
We believe there are many people in the city who can add to what we know at this point – we would sure like to hear from them.
Governments do respond to pressure – the planned upgrade – it’s actually more of a rebuild – calls for the Beachway community plans for parks that run right up to the canal area.
It will be interesting to hear what the Region tells the city in the fall when they are scheduled to bring the city up to date on where the plans for the “new” Beachway stand.
 A bridge dedicated to rail traffic into Burlington. At one point there were two tracks leading into the city. The walking trail that begins at the west end of Spencer Smith Park and goes right up to the canal was once a rail bed for trains that came into Burlington, picked up some of the produce from large farms and took it on in to Toronto and Montreal. Some of that produce made its way to European cities.
The trains that came through the city had their own exclusive bridge across the canal. At one point there were three bridges across the canal. When the Skyway bridge was opened – there was just the one bridge.
 The Royal Hamilton Yacht Club – a significant point of Hamilton Society There is a lot of history in that part of the city. During a walking tour with former Mayor Walter Mulkewhich he pointed out the location for a planned science museum tucked into land close to the western pier.
The Royal Hamilton Yacht Club had a magnificent clubhouse on the western side of the canal. An impressive stone light house used to serve as a beacon for ships – it is still there, hidden from view by the lift bridge that changed the movement of traffic that used to clog the road that serves as the entrance to the hospital
 By Pepper Parr
April 3rd, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Convinced that there is actually going to be a summer that doesn’t have us in some level of lockdown, city hall people held a virtual community meeting on what could and should be done with the Beachway that was flooded with a level of traffic last summer that had not been seen in decades.
With few places open for walking around and a requirement that we keep six feet apart and wear masks – and at the same time try to get outdoors for some exercise and a chance to upgrade our mental health, the city was open to new ideas. The city hall types wanted to hear what people thought should be done.
Many of the people using the park are believed to be people who were not Burlingtonians which rubbed some the wrong way.
The virtual event was a bit like a workshop; staff from Transportation, traffic, parks and recreation and tourism were taking part to explain what they were doing, as well as what they were up against.
 The virtual meeting was designed to get public input on how to handle the problems – though public take-up was low, there were some very good ideas. The Beachway traffic is close to being out of control.
Parking and waste removal were top of mind for those who did call in. The take up by the public wasn’t as high as Mayor Meed Ward had hoped.
There was a note that spaces on the call were limited to 500 – nowhere near that number – yet there were some good ideas.
When it was suggested that the Beachway be limited to just people who lived in Burlington, Mayor Meed Ward pointed out that the Beachway was a Regional park operated by the city.
That means having to take in the “rabble” from everywhere.
Charging for parking is something we are likely to see come the summer. The rate mentioned was $20 a day – $2.50 an hour. How those amounts are going to be collected wasn’t talked about.
 This house was torn down – just an empty plot of land. All part of the Region’s willing seller – willing buyer program designed to remove all of the homes in the Beachway. It could serve as a temporary parking lot. One call had a really good idea: Use the spaces that used to have homes on them before the Region began buying them up – they are now just vacant lots. The suggestion was to turn them over to one of the service clubs who would handle the parking and split the income with the city.
Given that we are dealing with municipal administrations there were problems (the Region owns the land) – the grounds would have to be properly prepared which would cost and thee is no budget in place to cover that cost.
We did learn that there are conversations taking place with the Region.
There are plans to put Ambassadors in place who will travel in pairs and patrol both the Beachway and Spencer Smith Park explaining the rules to people. Parking bylaw officers will also be well represented. They will be wearing uniforms – no hats or badges said the Mayor.
 The Pavilion, which was badly in need of an upgrade will reopen around Victoria Day. Washrooms will be available. The Pavilion is undergoing upgrades – washrooms will be operational by summer time.
City Staff are looking into ways to get mobile food vendors in the space.
Director of Parks and Recreation Chris Glenn, apologetically explained that the “healthy food” mandate they had in place will give way to products that are more popular. The vendors can’t make a living selling kale with dressing on the side.
French fries and ice cream will do it.
There are a lot of unknowns including whatever the province and or the Public Health Unit decide to impose.
 Parking tickets get handed out when people decide they can park wherever they wish. This was in the west end of the Beachway – some of those houses in the background were torn down. The job on the public health side is to do everything possible to keep us all safe; parks and recreation needs to find ways for creating things people can do while traffic needs to exercise some control over the parking.
Staff are looking into pick up and drop off locations where people can be driven into the park and be dropped off at a location where they could put all their ”stuff” and get driven out of the Park when they are ready to go home. Cumbersome to even think about.
A number of people wanted to see much better maintenance – the grounds get to look pretty tacky at the end of a busy day. The suggestion was that roving maintenance people be on hand to do the clean up throughout the day.
Staff would like people to realize that when they bring waste into the park, they should be made responsible for taking it out with them.
A lot of educating to be done – and these things cost money.
Using electric carts to move people in and out was mentioned, shuttle buses brought out the fact that one of the bus routes runs from the John Street terminal right through the Beachway. Parking in the city is free on the weekends – could work.
Council will be getting a report on Tuesday – the option will be spelled out along with the costs.
The virtual event was to take the pulse of the community and see what they had to say.
 The Mayor monopolized the microphone – partly because the ward Councillor didn’t have much to say – the Beachway is in his ward – he should be THE champion for that part of the city. The Beachway is in ward 1 and while Councillor Kelvin Galbraith could be seen – the public didn’t hear all that much from him.
For much of the webcast it sounded like the Mayor was the prime input person – she asked the questions, guided those who were calling in and passed things along to Staff.
The one really “hot potato” was finding a way to reserve the park for Burlingtonians – no one wanted to touch that one.
Sitting in the background is the work being done on a Master Plan for the Beachway that began in 2015. Council is scheduled to receive a report on that sometime in the fall.
 Almost every foot of the Beachway park will look differently if the Master Plan now in the works actually gets done. What Meed Ward consistently calls the jewel in the city’s crown” is going to begin to look a lot different in five years.
Hopefully we are out of public health restrictions by then.
Related news story
The Master Plan for the Beachway
 By Alexander Cedborn
April 1st, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
In a time where no career seems to be immune from the knock-on effects of COVID-19, job security is at an all time low. Tourism and hospitality is decimated, aviation and ground support staff are being laid off left, right and centre. Not one to sound bleak, but it is what it is. And what it is hasn’t been seen since the 1930’s. If even for the lucky that haven’t been effected, it’s still a big shake up around just how secure your life can really be, or if it can all change in an instant.
What this time is showing us, is that things can change so easily, so then they can also change for the better. Maybe your job isn’t going anywhere, your steady paycheck will keep turning up, month after month. But just maybe you’ve started to realize that there is more to life than your boring 9-5 that feeds your bank account but not your soul.
Whatever the case may be, the online casino industry is booming according to Casino Pilot Canada. Also, this trend will only continue until 2026 says Mordor Intelligence.
So, if you have some decent casino skills that could be put to good use, now could be the time of change. Here’s a good selection of jobs that will value your skills and may just have you living the good life on a Mediterranean island.
Job Opportunities
 Croupier: It may seem a little obvious, but every casino has plenty of them Croupier
It may seem a little obvious, but every casino has plenty of them and if you’re a social butterfly, it’s perfect for you. All casinos have a lot of on the job training so don’t worry if you’re not a pro. But having some skills in your back pocket will always get you a foot in the door.
And we’re not just talking about your local casino either. Live dealer casinos are becoming an extremely popular part of the online market. Many jobs are available in the central hub of these gaming countries where huge studios are set up to offer a live feed all over the world. The likes of Estonia, Malta and the great state of New Jersey have many opportunities available, so live a little and go out on a limb.
Customer Support Agent
All casinos operate with a customer support team. Many are hired as the first step into a career in gaming, so experience isn’t essential. You generally work as part of a rotational shift that may cover a 24-hour period or at least until 11pm. It’s a buzzing environment and again, a good knowledge of the workings of a casino may not be a prerequisite, but it shows your interest in the field at least.
Many positions are language based though so if English isn’t your first language, then you’re in luck. But either way, many positions are around.
 There’s never been a better time to step up your hobby into a career. Be a Professional Player
There’s never been a better time to step up your hobby into a career. With many of us working from home and living our lives in our tiny apartments, spare time is no longer sparse. You can start off slow by playing a few hours a night, after your normal working hours. That way you don’t have to make the big plunge.
As time progresses, you’ll soon know by the state of your finances if you’re cut out for the life of a card shark or not. But if you are, you can live anywhere in the world and play when you want. You’ll get to dictate your job rather than the other way round. But can you really make a good living from it? If you’re good, you’ll be more than comfortable. Just take it slow and see how it feels.
Should I go for it?
So, although the world may seem a bit mixed up right now, there’s still plenty of opportunities for people who have unique skills. And yes, brick and mortar casinos aren’t doing so well without punters through their doors, but that don’t doesn’t mean all is lost. Even for those who may have found themselves unemployed from these establishments can use their skills of numeracy, customer support and multi-tasking to gain further employment.
 You’ll get to dictate your job rather than the other way round. But can you really make a good living from it? If you’re good, you’ll be more than comfortable. It may seem like desperate times, but maybe it’s just that shake up that we need every once in a while, to think outside the box. To stop living on autopilot and start living the life we want and we deserve. Because we humans may be far from perfect, but we’re extremely adaptable when we need to be. So let’s start focusing less on what we don’t have in our lives and more on what we want to take from life.
By Staff
March 31st, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Teen Tour Band Boosters have been partnering with the Food Bank for events for some time and this Saturday at the Burlington Centre (formerly Burlington Mall), they are running a covid-safe food drive from 10am to noon in the parking lot beside the Bay on the south side – please join them and cheer them on!
The support for the Food Bank comes from the community. A few recent food drives deserve a heart felt mention – without them the system and the service provided wouldn’t work.
The Sheldon Creek community has done an amazing job recently bringing in 1,500 lbs of donations. The BAD parents and team (Burlington Aquatic Devil rays) raise funds and food. The Pauline Johnson Public School did an excellent job collecting donations at various locations while keeping all safety protocols in place. And a special thanks as well to Zoe & Christian for their Easter Food Drive.
 Dominique Wildeboer – Food Bank Volunteer of the Year Our Volunteer of the Year Award – Dominique Wildeboer
There were 160 different volunteers helping out during 2020 with 11,774 hours put in. The Food bank managers had to pick just one volunteer out of all of that. Congratulations to Dominique Wildeboer for stepping up during this year of the pandemic.
Dominique has been helping us out for approx. 4.5 years and she volunteered approx 1,000 hours logged in 2020 herself. Robin Bailey, Executive Director of the Food Bankasks, how did we get so lucky?
“I started volunteering after retiring from teaching. I had some experience in the grocery store industry growing up and thought the food bank would make a nice fit. After 4.5 years here I still love it mostly because of the wonderful people I volunteer with.” says Dominique.
“She goes above and beyond often times shopping for special requests for our clients. We truly are lucky to have her with us; she’s an inspiration to everyone”, said Bailey.
By Staff
March 31st, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
 MP Karina Gould engaging a constituent during the last federal election In her monthly report to the public Burlington MP Karina Gould, a Member of the Trudeau Cabinet said she was “pleased to share the news earlier this month that an agreement is in the works between Transport Canada and the Cities of Burlington and Hamilton to come to an arrangement to keep the Burlington Piers open and accessible.
There is more work to do, but this is a very positive development for our community.”
The decision to limit access to the piers on both sides of the canal came as a surprise to many.
 A federal government department is working with both Burlington and Hamilton to find a way to keep the piers open to the public. What concerns the Gazette is: Where is the public participation on this one? It was the public that was being kept off the pier for really spurious reasons.
Can you just imagine telling the public they could not stand on the pier and watch as the ship, some under full sail, glided by.
As well – Burlington and the Region are toiling away at a major design task for the Beachway including a park setting that will be on the north side of the bridge coming right up to the water’s edge of what is at that point Hamilton harbour.
 Long range plan for the Beachway is to upgrade the area including significant changes to the western end – around the canal. These plans would seem to be at odds with what the federal Transportation department is working through for public access to the piers.  Hundreds gathered on the piers to watch ships like this glide by.  Many will recall the hundreds of people that lined the piers when the tall ships paid Burlington and Hamilton a visit.
By Staff
March 29th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
City of Burlington administrative services will be closed for Good Friday, on Friday, April 2, and Easter Monday, on Monday, April 5.
For a list of which City services and facilities are available on the Easter holiday weekend, please see the summary below or visit burlington.ca
The information provided below is accurate as of March 29, 2021. In the event of any changes made to current COVID-19 public health measures by the Province of Ontario, please visit burlington.ca/coronavirus for potential impacts to City services and programs.
Residents can also stay informed about city news on our social media channels: @cityburlington on Twitter and facebook.com/cityburlington.
City Service Holiday Closure Information
 You are going to have to nurse the cat yourself. Animal Services
The Animal Shelter at 2424 Industrial St. remains closed to the public due to COVID-19.
To report an animal control-related emergency, call 905-335-3030 or visit www.burlington.ca/animal.
Burlington Transit will operate a Sunday schedule on Good Friday. For real-time bus information and schedules visit myride.burlingtontransit.ca.
The downtown terminal at 430 John St. and Specialized Dispatch will be closed on Friday, April 2.
City Hall The Service Burlington counter at City Hall (426 Brant St.), will be closed to all appointments and walk-in service on Friday, April 2 and Monday, April 5.
Many service payments are available online at burlington.ca/onlineservices.
Halton Court Services – Provincial Offences Office Court administration counter services at 4085 Palladium Way will be closed on Friday April 2, 2020 and Monday April 5, 2021.
With the exception of the Easter closure, telephone payments are available at 905-637-1274, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.
All in-person services are available from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday. Many services are also available by email at burlingtoncourt@burlington.ca or online at Halton Court Services
Parking Free parking is available downtown, on the street, in municipal lots and in the parking garage (414 Locust St.) on weekends and holidays, including Good Friday and Easter Monday.
NOTE: The Waterfront parking lots (east and west) do not provide free parking on statutory holidays.
Parking exemptions are required to park overnight on city streets and for longer than five hours. Visit burlington.ca/parkingexemptions
Recreation Programs and Facilities Drop-In Recreation Activities
All users must pre-register and complete the online COVID-19 screening at burlington.ca/screening. Registration opens 25 hours in advance of program start times. To view program times, visit burlington.ca/dropinandplay
 Centennial pool Swimming
• Lap swimming and recreational swimming are available at Tansley Woods Community Centre (1996 Itabashi Way) and Centennial Pool (5151 New St.)
Skating
• Recreational skating is available at Appleby Ice Centre (1201 Appleby Line) and Mountainside Arena (2205 Mt. Forest Dr). An artificial rink at Hidden Valley Park (1137 Hidden Valley Rd.) is open for skating daily from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and is ideal for young families and people learning to skate. Capacity on the rink is 10 people.
Lending Library
Play Equipment
• Horseshoes, glow in the dark soccer balls, Kanjam, washer toss, tennis, Spikeball and more are available to borrow. Visit burlington.ca/playlending
Pickleball Equipment
• Borrow pickleball equipment for free, including noise-reducing paddles, ball packs and portable nets that can be used anywhere. Visit burlington.ca/pickleball
Outdoor Activities
Please see below for a list of opportunities available in Burlington (weather permitting) or visit www.burlington.ca/outdoorplay.
Please note: several of the outdoor recreational amenities listed below are not monitored. We ask that you cooperate with others using the space and follow all COVID-19 health precautions and posted signage. If the outdoor recreational space is busy, please try another outdoor recreational amenity in the city or come back at a different time. Please be kind to one another, remain vigilant and stay safe.
Tennis and Pickleball Courts
• Outdoor tennis and pickleball courts at Leighland Park (1200 Leighland Rd.) and Optimist Park (2131 Prospect St.) are open and available for play daily, from 8 a.m. to dusk.
 This is the rural Burlington residents want to keep – walking trails and quiet countryside. Parks and Trails
• Enjoy any of the city’s trails and parks. Visit burlington.ca/outdoorplay
Active at Home
Options to stay active at home are available online at burlington.ca/activeathome, including a series of virtual activities from fitness to crafts for everyone to enjoy. All videos are free and new videos are added frequently.
Follow @BurlingtonParksRec on Facebook and @Burl_ParksRec on Twitter for the latest updates and videos.
Roads, Parks and Forestry The administrative office will be closed on Friday, April 2 and Monday, April 5.
Essential services will be provided as required.
Residents can stay informed about City news at www.burlington.ca/coronavirus and our social media channels: @cityburlington on Twitter and facebook.com/cityburlington
By Staff
March 29th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
It’s tell me a story time. Can I fib a bit you might ask?
Just how colourful can my story be?
 Can I tell you about the time a leader in the Parks and Recreation department gave a hula hoop demonstration outside city hall? Didn’t think so.
Everyday in Burlington, someone does something for a friend, a stranger or their community. Many times, no one knows the action or even the impact it has. Sure, the city has some larger than life events and local personalities that are exciting, award-winning and newsworthy, but it’s the random acts of community that really build our strength, sense of belonging and defines who we are as a city.
We are asking residents to share stories of what makes you proud to be Canadian and a Burlington resident, and how we come together as a City. Tell us about how you or someone you know has made a difference or has brought people together through random acts of community; moments of kindness or through small acts that may have made a bigger impact in your life or those around you.
We are looking for your stories of what makes you a proud Canadian and Burlington resident and how we come together. Here are some thoughts on stories you could share:
 This is what city building is all about. Seven young Burlingtonians made plaster impressions of their hand prints which were then engraved on the marker that tells the story of the pier and its construction. Despite its construction woes and legal problems the pier is a magnificent addition to the city. 1. What do you love about Burlington or your local community?
2. What is it about Burlington that drew you here or keeps you here?
3. How has the Burlington community made you feel welcome or proud to be a part of it?
4. How have you or someone you know, contributed to the Burlington community that brings us closer together?
5. How has Burlington shaped you?
We are looking for your submissions in writing (500 words or less) or through a video (no longer than 1 min and upload via YouTube or Vimeo) or a combination of written with photos sharing a story.
You can start your story like this: “I’m proud to be Canadian and I love Burlington because……”
Personal Information contained on this page is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act, S.O. 2001, c.25, as amended and will be used for the purpose of gathering and sharing stories. Select submissions may be contacted for permission to share in other mediums. Questions about this collection should be directed to the Supervisor, Festivals & Events sandra.maxwell@burlington.ca, by phone at 905-335-7600, ext. 7724, or by mail at 426 Brant St., Burlington, Ontario L7R-3Z6.
By Staff
March 27th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Earth Hour – this evening .
The occasion to think about the planet we live on – and acknowledge that perhaps we haven’t treated the land and sea all that well.
Communities around the world will turn off all the lights from 8:30 – 9:30 p.m. Millions of people across the globe are expected to turn off lights to recognize the importance of nature and protecting the environment.
The initiative started as a symbolic lights out event in Sydney, Australia in 2007. Since then, the World Wildlife Fund’s (WWF) Earth Hour has grown to become the world’s largest grassroots movement for the environment.
 Perhaps it has been awhile since you’ve spent an evening like this? What do people do – sit in the dark ruminating over the state of things?
Some have decided it is a perfect occasion to have a candle light dinner – the over-riding question is – what kind of wine?
 After dinner – try this? You could
• Discus the loss of nature and the importance of nature
• Under-stand biodiversity and its importance
• Explore the role of nature as an ally in the fight against the climate crisis
• Evaluate where and how electricity is used, and the importance of turning off and unplugging as many electronic devices as possible.
I think in our household we are going to try dancing to songs we sing to each other.
By Hubert Harrison
March 26th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The world of NHL sports betting can be quite overwhelming for beginners. With the amount of betting strategies and lingo swirling around, it can be hard to keep up. Before you start looking into ice hockey betting tips and placing bets it’s important to get the basics down first. With money on the line, it’s important always important to bet smart
 It is an exciting game with some incredible athletes. Online sports betting has become a fantastic activity for many sports fans today. With a bet involved, fans get to have a more engaging experience for every match they follow. Compared to just watching the latest NHL news live broadcasts, sports betting is a lot more exciting. It gives bettors the adrenaline rush as they watch their team win or lose.
Important Safety Betting Tips For Beginners
Betting mistakes happen. Even to the most seasoned of sports bettors. However, making errors is inevitable, there are a couple of ways to reduce them. In the world of online sports betting, it’s important to take things slow when learning the ropes of the trade. You need to learn how to bet smart to lead a successful betting career. To help guide you on to the path of sports betting success, keep on reading.
Keep things simple and clear
If you think you’ll be winning big from the get-go, think again. Online betting takes time and experience to master. Just like playing the piano, it’s impossible to master a piece on your first try. You’re going to need to practice over and over again to nail it.
Take things step-by-step.
The very first thing rookies need to keep in mind is to keep things simple and clear. In other words, participate in bets that you fully understand. Know where you’re placing your bets and their results. By not over complicating things, you’ll be able to make smart betting decisions and avoid the risk of burning a hole in your pocket.
Have a budget
While a chance at winning big sounds a whole more exciting than just a couple of bucks, it is incredibly risky. Especially when you lack the experience. One of the most important tips you need to always keep in mind no matter what is to always stay within your budget.
You need to always spend within your means. To keep control of your finances, set a specific budget that you can afford to lose. As a beginner, you are bound to make a few more mistakes than the average punter. So, be prepared to lose a great sum of your budget.
Do not trust just any tipster
Cyber attacks are all over the internet. As a beginner, it’s important to thoroughly look through different betting sites before trusting them. Here are some tips on how to find the right trustworthy tipsters:
Client reviews
Looking through online reviews is the best way to get the best idea of a betting site’s services and client experience.
 Payment methods
Have a look at the site’s payment methods. Check if they use popular payment platforms like Paypal or Apple Pay.
Terms and conditions
A tell-tale sign that a betting site is suspicious if they don’t have a terms and conditions page anywhere on their site. Make sure the site you’re about to trust has one.
Compare betting odds and lines
One of the best betting tips you need to take is always to compare betting odds and lines. Having good odds gives a big advantage in having a higher payout. On the other hand, having better betting lines will increase your chance of winning wagers.
Another way to increase your chances of winning is to have multiple accounts with different betting sites. By having several accounts in different betting platforms, you’ll be able to compare and find the best betting odds and lines right away.
NHL Betting Terms You Need To Know
After getting a good grasp on the important safety betting tips, it’s now time to know more about the type of sport you’ll be focusing on. NHL sports betting lingo can be rather confusing, especially when you’re just getting started. Here are a couple of important NHL sports betting lingo commonly used amongst bettors in the industry.
 Pick the team you think can win and place a wager. Moneyline
Pick a team to win the game. It’s the simplest way to wager on.
Puck Line
To win, your team must score by more than 1.5 goals and the opposing team needs to lose by no more than 1.5 goals.
Parlay
Parlay is the act of combining two or more bet types from the same or across multiple games. It’s a good move to increase your total number of odds. But it can also be a risk as all plays need to be accurate.
Favorite
Refers to the home team or the team with the better record of the season.
Underdog
Refers to the visiting team or the team with the weaker record of the season.
Teaser
The act of buying or selling goals on a puck line or in a total bet. This move gives bettors better odds or chances of winning with lower odds.
 All kinds of teams to wager on. Different Ways to Bet on the NHL
After a quick crash course of NHL lingo, the next thing you need to familiarize yourself with is the different types of bets in the NHL.
Live Betting
Betting while the game is in action. It’s the most action-packed way to bet on the NHL, you’ll be able to see lines adjusted in real-time.
Single-game Betting
This betting type is used when you’re only interested in betting on specific individuals broken down to a money line.
Prop Bets
Single-game bets based on players. Bettors can place bets whether a specific player scores or not, or even hit a certain record.
Futures Bet
Early bets are placed during the off-season or within the season by supporting a specific team to win a certain amount of games.
Experience is Gold
When it comes to online sports betting experience is the best teacher. It’s important to take risks and make mistakes. It’s how you learn how to do better the next time around. Understanding these basic terms and ways of how to place bets on the NHL will help give you a better grasp on where to get started. The best betting strategy is to take things one step at a time. Learn and grow with every win or loss you make.
 By Tom Geens
March 25th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Lift your eyes to the future – and the all-Canadian pursuits we can look forward to over the coming months.
By anyone’s standards, the last year has been extremely tough. Leaving aside the direct human suffering inflicted by COVID-19, the pandemic has also ground society to a halt, with lockdown measures meaning that so many of our favourite pastimes have either been put on hold altogether or severely curtailed.
Things are going to stay tough for a little while yet. But at least now, with the prospect of a vaccine-led recovery strengthening every day, it feels like we can finally lift our eyes to the future and the promise of a return to normality.
With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of Ontarians’ favourite all-Canadian pursuits – the things that we’ve been missing dearly, and that enrich our local and national life so much. Something to whet the appetite as we look forward to brighter days ahead.
 Hockey is the national sport – watched at both the professional and local levels. Watching hockey
Our biggest national sport, over 1.3 million Canadians actively participate in recreational hockey games, and as much as 68% of the population watched the 2018 NHL playoffs. This is a sport deeply ingrained in our national psyche.
Yet in recent months, there have been COVID-19 outbreaks traced to hockey arenas all over the US and Canada, meaning that spectators are not being allowed into stadiums to watch their favourite pro teams play. However, a vaccine-led recovery raises the prospect of Ontarians returning to the stands in the not-too-distant future, watching their favourite players while gobbling down hotdogs, ice cream and beer.
Playing rugby again with our friends
We might not be the world’s most famous rugby nation – that accolade probably goes to New Zealand – but we still love the sport.
 In Burlington the local Rugby Clubs take part in events, including the annual Christmas parade. It was introduced to this country by the Royal Navy back in 1823, and we now have domestic tournaments such as the Canadian Rugby Championship and we participate in continental matches such as the Americas Rugby Championship.
With Rugby Ontario announcing that rugby clubs in certain parts of the province are allowed to start playing again, it feels exciting to be returning to the rucks and scrums of this fiercely competitive sport and using up some of that excess energy that we’ve all been storing up from months spent indoors.
Enjoying galleries and our world-beating culture
What have you been doing to pass the time during stay-at-home measures? A decent novel always helps. Netflix may offer some entertainment. There’s also the world of online casinos – sites such as this one offer plenty of online games, chances to win money, and safety measures to ensure that you can keep track of what it is you’re spending. For as long as the economy remains at least partially closed, indoor pursuits like this may help to keep you sane.
 Patron looking at painting being auctioned. However, we’re all craving a bit of culture – Canada is famous for it, after all – and our very own Burlington Art Gallery has re-opened its doors. With its range of exhibits, including a prominent collection of Canadian ceramics, and free access for visitors, this is definitely a great day out for the family.
Further afield, in the cultural mecca of Toronto, just over 40 minutes’ drive away, the Art Gallery of Ontario also remains closed – though an excellent array of virtual courses and activities remain available. For example, artist instructor Amanda Arcuri is running an online series called ‘Drawing Larger Than Life’.
Elsewhere, the world-famous Toronto Symphony Orchestra has posted an update on its website saying that it hopes to be able to share further details about its 2021/22 schedule by late spring or early summer.
Running your model boats at Centennial Pond
Skating at the Centennial Pond is over the for season. Soon the water will be ready for those model boats that scoot around at a feverish clip.
Everyone is looking forward to the point where the majority of people will have been vaccinated and we will be able to get out to wine and dine and maybe event get to a movie. Too early to tell – but that is the hope – assuming we all maintain that two metre safe distance and wear masks.
Drinking craft beer in our enviable array of bars
The humble glass of beer. In a bar. With your friends. Surely, few simple pleasures are being missed quite as much as this one, with venues across Ontario still shuttered due to the pandemic.
However, we can find solace in the fact that our enviable craft beer culture will come back with a bang when lockdown does finally end – and Toronto’s craft scene and brewers, in particular, give us hope that one day soon, we’ll be experimenting with all manner of flavorful ales.
Places such as Bandit Brewery, with its devilishly good bar snacks and quirky beer selection, is just one of the establishments that we’ll be hoping to get back into soon.
 The Beer Guy will deliver the suds to your door while you watch the hockey game. Until then, be sure to check out companies such as The Beer Guy in Burlington, and the range of local breweries offering deliveries of kegs and bottles to people’s front doors.
We’re so lucky to live in Ontario – our proximity to big cities, big culture and world-beating nature means that we’re well-placed to enjoy the economic and social recovery from COVID-19 when it finally sets in.
Until then, we’ll have to make the most of the activities that we’re still allowed to do under restrictions and meditate on the prospect of better days ahead.
By Staff
March 24th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton District School Board announced today that they will be joining communities around the world in support of Earth Hour on Saturday, March 27 from 8:30 – 9:30 p.m. Millions of people across the globe are expected to turn off lights to recognize the importance of nature and protecting the environment.
 The initiative started as a symbolic lights out event in Sydney, Australia in 2007. Since then, the World Wildlife Fund’s (WWF) Earth Hour has grown to become the world’s largest grassroots movement for the environment.
Schools in the Halton District School Board will set an example for their communities and lead into Earth Hour on Friday, March 26 by engaging in a series of learning activities including:
• Discussing the loss of nature and the importance of nature
• Understanding biodiversity and its importance
• Exploring the role of nature as an ally in the fight against the climate crisis
• Evaluating where and how electricity is used, and the importance of turning off and unplugging as many electronic devices as possible
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