 By Staff
September 16th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Some people have a problem with a surveillance society – where almost every intersection in cities has camera posted that are monitored 24/7.
 The technology is now at a point where anything anywhere can be under surveillance. Does it every get abused – Sometimes. Ontario Investing in Video Surveillance Systems and funding for new equipment and improved technology that will enhance police efforts to prevent crime, especially gun and gang violence.
The moment police mention gun and gang violence – the public all too often says – how much do you need?
The Ontario government is investing almost $1.8 million to help 20 police services across the province expand video surveillance systems and better protect communities from the threat of gun and gang violence.
The Region of Halton isn’t getting any of that money – it already has some of the most sophisticated technology – but they don’t appear to be making much use of street level cameras (CCTV)
The funding is being delivered through the Ontario Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Grant Program and will be used to replace outdated equipment, expand or enhance current technology, and install new or additional CCTV surveillance cameras in areas where gun and gang violence and correlated crimes, such as drug and human trafficking, are most prevalent.
“Our government is determined to provide police services with the tools and resources they need to keep Ontarians safe,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “CCTV surveillance systems are an important part of local police work to detect, prevent and deter criminal activity, especially in areas of gun and gang violence and other serious crimes. This funding will help police services strengthen CCTV capacity and improve crime prevention efforts to better protect communities.”
 By Pepper Parr
September 16th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
What a screw up.
The folks that make the wheels go around at the Performing Arts Centre put together a top notch season.
That one of the best bands on stage for the Season Opener.
 Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock, who formed the band Air Supply in 1975 Air Supply – the duo who have been playing together for more than xx years had made Burlington one of their three Canadian performances.
The event was close to sold out – 95% of the tickets were purchased – all they had left were singles spread out through the 730 seat theatre.
At 4 pm Tammy Fox and her team were advised that the gear Air Supply uses had not arrived. That was cutting it a little close – at 6 pm still no show from the cargo company.
The problem was with Canada Customs
 Chris Murphy – Sloan – came to the rescue. Fox was able to call in a big favour and have Chris Murphy of Sloan take to the stage and serve as the opening act.
The show was supposed to start at 7:30
After the Sloan performance at about 8 pm Tammy Fox had to walk out on the stage and announce that the event had to be cancelled and invited everyone to gather in the huge lobby and enjoy a free drink at the bar and meet Russell and Hitchcock and commiserate.
What a tough way to start a season.
The show will take place on Sunday at 2:00 pm – all the tickets sold will be honoured.
There were some cancellations – looking on the bright side – there is a chance for people to get tickets to a great duo that BETTER HERE.
On their Face Book page Air Supply had this to say:
 The Air Supply “Lost in Love VIP Experience” wasn’t consummated on the 14th – you can still have that experience on the 18th “.So here we were at our show tonight … Due to screw ups by our cargo company and Air Canada, our gear didn’t arrive at all … We went onstage and explained what happened … You all blew us away with how understanding you were … Tonight’s show has been moved to Sunday, September 18th at 2:00 pm and all tickets for the show will be honored for the rescheduled date … Once again, THANK YOU from the deepest part of our hearts, for your patience and understanding … It was nice to get to meet most of the audience in the lobby after the show and connect … We look forward to seeing you all on Sunday.”
Stuff happens. Check with the box office – some really good seats now available
Performing Arts Box office has extended their hours.
Call the Box Office: (905) 681-6000
 By Staff
September 16, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Citizens are going to get a chance to at least see all the people who want to be Mayor, well almost all: William Tuck did not provide a photograph and it does not appear certain that he will attend
The Chamber of Commerce holds these events which are not actual debates.
Each candidate gets to say who they are and what they want to do as Mayor and then there are questing from the audience.
The questions are vetted by the Chamber of Commerce. So don’t expect any fire works.
Event starts at 7:30 breakfast is part of the deal and it s free.
Expect a pretty full house.
 By Staff
September 16th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Residents are invited to join local artists, cultural professionals and creative organizations to attend free, interactive in-person or online events and activities during the 13th annual Culture Days.
Culture Days will take place from Sept. 23 to Oct. 16, 2022. This year, it is extending beyond its traditional weekend format to a more inclusive and interactive three-week schedule of programs and events.
Canada is ready for a re-emergence of arts and culture and so is Culture Days. As the world navigates to past norms and designs new solutions for everyday life, arts, culture, and expression play a vital role in a healthy, thriving society. This year’s theme RE: emergence, explores new ideas and innovation in arts and culture while committing to building tangible change in the sector and society. As we learn to live with COVID-19, the Ontario Culture Days Festival will offer a hybrid of in-person events as well as digital and self-guided programming. Attendees are asked to make sure they are following any municipal, regional, provincial and public health guidelines in their area. Ontario Culture Days has created event pages for attendees and ways to discover arts and culture across Ontario.
Angela Paparizo, Manager, Arts and Culture said: ““This year, Burlington artists and cultural organizations’ are offering residents and visitors creative and innovative events and programs. I invite everyone to see what Burlington artists and cultural organizations are offering during the 13th annual Culture Days. This is a great opportunity to see our local talent perform and showcase their creativity.”
Some of the events:
BPAC opens it’s doors for free performances and demonstrations in our Family Lobby and Main Theatre! General Admission seating – no ticket required!
From 12–4pm: Visit local performing arts organizations in the BPAC Lobby, including:
- Burlington Student Theatre
- Burlington Symphony Orchestra
- Burlington New Millennium Orchestra
- The Burlington Footnotes Senior Performing Troupe, Inc.
- Southern Ontario Lyric Opera
FREE Performances
Burlington Footnotes Dance Demonstration
1:30pm in the Lobby
The Burlington Footnotes will be doing a jazz dance called Some Silly 60’s Songs from their Gotta SING, Gotta DANCE! June show. They will also demonstrate a dance called Snap Clap and invite audience members to join them – it’s a lot of fun! Visit the Footnotes at their table for a chance to win a Footnotes bag filled with goodies.
Website: burlingtonfootnotes.com
Southern Ontario Lyric Opera Performance
2pm – 2:30pm in the Main Theatre
Southern Ontario Lyric Opera (SOLO), is a young, vibrant and dynamic Opera company with a dual goal of preserving and cultivating the multi-faceted art of opera for the dedicated aficionado, while also acquainting and educating those who are new to this exquisite and refined art form, through community outreach.
Under the baton of Founder and Artistic Director, Sabatino Vacca, SOLO made its debut in September of 2015 with “A Grand Night for Opera”, a celebration of opera favourites, at Burlington Performing Arts Centre. Since then we have mounted productions of La Traviata, Tosca, Rigoletto, Don Giovanni, a special concert featuring Adrianne Pieczonka, and more.
SOLO’s Artistic Director delivers opera presentations at Burlington Central Library, seniors’ residences, and to other local groups. Popular topics are “Opera 101” and dialogues focused on specific operas in SOLO’s repertoire. These events usually feature an artist who performs excerpts from an upcoming opera which has proven very popular for those in attendance as it gives them an opportunity to interact and ask questions, and to learn more about opera singers and their craft.
Burlington Symphony Orchestra Performance
3pm – 3:30pm in the Main Theatre
The Burlington Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Denis Mastromonaco, is celebrating 50 years of making music. We are a full-size community orchestra serving Burlington, Hamilton and the surrounding area. The BSO is proud to fulfill an important cultural role within our city and add to the vitality of our growing community. As part of Culture Days, on September 24th the full BSO will perform several light favourites including the Main Theme from Star Wars and the Colonel Bogey March.
Website: burlingtonsymphony.ca
Facebook: facebook.com/burlingtonsymphonyorchestra
Twitter: twitter.com/burlingtonSO
Burlington Student Theatre Performance
4pm – 4:30pm in the Main Theatre
Learn, grow and belong to the Burlington Student Theatre, established in 1979. Children and youth ages 4–18 can participate in a range of performing Arts opportunities. We offer programs year-round with 4 performances annually at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre and have produced over 50 performances since the Centre opening in 2011. All tickets on sale beginning November for all Performances at Burlingtonpac.ca. Our team of passionate professionals will help build self-esteem, confidence, critical thinking and transferable skills. This afternoon, members of the Senior company age 14-17 will perform “Cell Block Tango” from their musical Chicago, performed right here in May, 2022. We are grateful for the support of the Burlington Community.
Website: burlington.ca/theatre
Dates & Times
Sat Sep 24, 2022 from 12-4:30pm
Venue
BPAC Family Lobby
Main Theatre
Ticket Prices
 The hunt is on.
A crew of at least two people armed with rifles are in the Shore Acres area close to the Paletta Mansion out to kill the coyotes that are believed to have been terrorizing the community.
Police are in the area limiting access and ensuring the public is nowhere near.
The city has gotten serious – finally
 By Staff
September 15th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
This is a little short on the notice side but …
On Saturday, September 17th, Burlington Public Library will celebrate 150 years of service to the community.
The Library is marking its sesquicentennial with a big birthday bash at its Central Branch on New St.
“We are so excited to be able to celebrate with the community,” says CEO, Lita Barrie. “The pandemic put so many things on hold, and we are grateful that we get a chance to acknowledge this incredible milestone with a great big party.”
 Designed by Hamilton architect Charles Mills and built in 1906-1907 on the west side of Brant Street, south of Ontario Street. Its construction was funded by a $1000 donation by John Waldie, Burlington’s first Reeve and former Member of Parliament. Waldie had moved to Toronto after the death in 1884 of his wife Mary Ann (and the mother of their 13 children), following childbirth. As the founder of the Victoria Harbour Lumber Company, Waldie became immensely wealthy, building a Rosedale mansion for his family, but he did not forget Burlington. On opening day, the new library was stocked with 6,000 books, purchased by Waldie. The Library was demolished for the construction of a new Town Hall in 1964., 150 years of history
The library was founded in 1872 when villagers and public-school trustees joined forces to establish a public library service.
It began in a Central Public School hallway, where villagers could stop by for an hour every Friday afternoon to borrow a book.
Thanks to the fundraising efforts of the townspeople, the growing collection soon became too big for its location. For many years, local folks took turns hosting over 2,000 books in their homes and businesses until the first permanent library site opened in 1907.
Since then, the system has grown to seven branches across the city and offers programs, books, and community space to more than 100,000 members.
Bring the whole family
The celebration will run from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. this Saturday. It will feature live music, games, treats, and more. Formal remarks will take place at 11 a.m.
Attendees will also have a chance to contribute to a community art project that will be installed on the third floor of Central Branch later this year.
Where and when:
2331 New St. Burlington
Saturday, September 17th
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
By Staff
September 15th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Lakeshore Public School Community information Meeting
Sunday September 18, 2022
3:30-5:30pm
Location: TO BE DETERMINED.
Jane Cooper-Kelly, Lakeshore Public School Ratepayers Association
The meeting will apparently not be held on school property – liability issues
 By Staff
September 15th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
 When you see the coyote – report what you saw. It was made very clear during the Council Standing Committee yesterday that Animal Control know where the coyotes are wandering about is important information
The help the public with this important information gathering the city has created a form that can be filled in.
That form can be accessed by clicking HERE.
You can also call Animal Control – Burlington Animal Services at 905-335-3030.
 By Pepper Parr
September 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The general public knew very little about Tim Commisso when he returned to city hall as City Manager after retiring from the same job in Thunder Bay and spending a bit of time in the private sector.
One of the tasks he has as city manager is ensuring that the organizational structure is such that the needs of the city are met with the organization he creates.
That structure is something that evolves. In the past two years the staff compliment has ballooned – the Planning department is close to double what it was when this term of Council was elected.
We had a situation this past week when four Statutory meetings took place on the same day.
The Executive Director Sheila Jones was tasked with putting together the structure that will serve the city for at least a decade.
The size of the organization grew and the relationships between the different parts are set out so that staff understands the reporting structure.
Commisso found that he had to reduce the number of direct reports and created a series of Executive Directors that took much of the interaction with department directors off his desk.
 This is what is in place now and what the city manager wants to add to the organizational structure. Commisso is supported by some very talented people who created the outline and presented the charts that are set out below.
 This is the core of the administration that has been endorsed by city council and will be put in place going forward. He did say that he had know idea how Sheila Jones created the charts and left it at that.
 Customer relations is getting much more attention – that doesn’t seem to have made any different to the level of citizen engagement.
 With everything being digitized – the Information Technology department had to begin shifting its focus and bringing indifferent levels of expertise; cyber security being one. Oddly – except for ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns and to a lesser degree Paul Sharman had much to say.
In his opening remarks Commisso put it this way: This is a report about “finalizing are putting in place a further sort of evolution of our organizational design, which Council would have gotten a peek at somewhat back in 2019. When we moved to what essentially is a bit of a hybrid structure.
So, with that, actually, I would like to say that organizational design really serves multiple purposes but it definitely is the foundation for accountability in the organization from Council down to the you know, the employees; I use health and safety as the best example The city and council is ultimately accountable for health and safety under provincial law, but it really transcends back down to every employee. It is important said Commisso “to have the organizational design, replicate and as much as possible aligned with your business processes; that is really the key in some respects.”
 Endorsed – there will be major changes in the level of bylaw enforcement staff
 Endorsed by Council – expected to be a view of what the administration will look like in a decade Executive Director Sheila Jones explained that what started in 2019 with evolving the organization continues today with what we call designing and evolving our organization. Because evolution is just that it’s adapting and changing to the environment in which we find ourselves and so this report highlights the changes we believe are necessary in three areas.
“The first area is to evolve our focus on our residents experiences and engagement. And we see that there are synergies in bringing together the areas of corporate experience, corporate communication and engagement and the office of the city clerk as a service group with the title of customer relations and engagement. We can see how residents connecting with the city whether it is just for information or it’s to conduct a transaction to provide their input to participate in an advisory committee or interact with you committee and council.
“Our residents will benefit from an enhanced collaboration and integration of the services provided through these three departments under the leadership of an Executive Director Community Relations and engagement and this is simply fulfilling what was identified back in 2019 when Tim first proposed the organizational structure for an evolving organization.
“The second area is to evolve our Information Technology Service to build out the id to Burlington Digital services. Our world and our work have become more digital. We saw this even more so throughout the pandemic when we were forced apart yet we still had to be connected. And knowing this we understand digital is more than just information technology. Digital transformation involves delivering better outcomes enabled by technology and the use of data to support the core mission of the city. It means to genuinely transform and redesign services and citizen experiences. So this transformation is key for the city to harness the best of technology today and in the future.
“The third area is to evolve our bylaws service by housing it with Building and Bylaws as a department of its own. This proposed change raises the profile of the services needed to offer enhanced community protection through a different service model, be it in Animal Services, bylaw, law, compliance and enforcement and in business licensing. The outcome is to have a proactive measures through services aligned with our city’s customer experience strategy. Evolution is change and it’s imperative to not only survive, but to thrive. And so we are welcoming of committee’s questions and comments about this report before you.
“We’re able to do the change relative to the new Executive Director for Community Relations and Engagement based on the redeployment of an existing complement. There’s would be no budget impact.”
 Ward 6 Councillor Angelo Bentivegna Ward 6 Councillor Angelo Bentivegna asked “when we talked about budget, there’s going to be a presentation so we will just receive and file this one.
What will it show? Improvements? efficiencies in revenue producing in the bylaw when you’re talking about being active and proactive. In terms of the bylaws and licenses that means we’re going to get more people more boots on the ground. Getting more licenses for $500 or whatever. More dogs off leash fines as you know with more boots in the ground. Will that be part of the budget in terms of an increase?
It was explained to the Councillor that there are no budget impact from this report and there won’t be any budget increase.
With respect to the information coming forward, you will be receiving two reports in December one with respect to bylaw enforcement and that will give you an overview about what we anticipate that new department to look like for your consideration in the budget and when we bring forward the budget, we will be bringing forward the business case to support that. That business case would include not only the dollars and the funding required to put those boots on the ground as you refer to them, but it will also be inclusive of those resources that are required in the corporate support services. Because every time we hire an individual, it’s not just the boots on the ground. We do need to support those folks with in some respects the back office. You can anticipate in that business case we’ll be identifying what the outcomes are and what are we anticipating that we should be getting for this service enhancement for which there will likely will have to fund it in some way.
That’s likely a tax increase or a tax part of our tax base. So you will be seeing that information coming forward.
When you look at possible enhancements like this, you’re investing in a in a future model of proactive and that ranges from compliance, licensing, ensuring that all license holders do have the proper licenses in place, looking at antiquated bylaws and make sure they meet today’s regulations, today’s requirements, and today’s community’s needs.
Mayor Meed Ward commented that “It’s a monumental undertaking to review an entire organization and see how we can structure ourselves to deliver and you’ve done that really well. I’m looking forward to seeing how it actually translates into better customer service because that’s what we do this for.”
 Executive Director Sheila Jones. Jones said: “ I think it’s very important that we’re presenting this type of information in a public forum. This is really our greatest asset and largest expenditure in our budget sometimes, which is our human capital. This is truly what let our city run. And I think it was really amazing to see slide two of the PowerPoint presentation which puts the center of what we do and why we do it right there in the middle. Parent, resident customer, neighbor, Senior Community client, renter business owner, the list goes on. So when we see what that wraparound support looks like from the current and future state, we know that we’re anchored and delivering that service to those groups. This was no easy feat. It reminds me a little bit of the spaghetti looking bus routes at the beginning of this term, and now they’re all linear and beautiful. And it reminds me of the mishmash of the organizational chart that we started with resulting in far too many reports to city manager.
Commisso ended the conversation with the comment: “I just want to credit Sheila for finding those charts and I’m not sure where she got them.
With no more comments coming forward they called the vote: It carried.
 By Pepper Parr
September 15th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Much of the Standing Committee meeting yesterday focused on the coyote problem.
 Executive Director Sheila Jones – will be on top of every decision made as the city moves into over-drive to find solutions to what is described as a crisis.  City Manager Tim Commisso has gotten the message – there is a crisis and all hands are going to be on deck to resolve it – and it is going to be expensive. We were told that this was the number 1 issue facing the city administration. Those words came from City Manager Tim Commisso and Executive Director Sheila Jones.
Stephen White, who delegated yesterday on just how serious the problem is would not argue with those statements – he just wishes they had been made and acted upon more than a year ago when he was trying very hard to get the ear of the administration.
What became evident during the meeting was that the problem we are facing is one that we brought on ourselves.
People have been feeding the coyotes and as a result rogue coyotes are not as afraid of human beings as they are naturally.
While it is difficult to know how many people are actually feeding the animals – and let us be clear – coyotes are animals – they are not pets.
They need to be controlled in a way that deters the behaviour we are now experiencing.
The city is looking into higher fines (the current find is $150) and talking about a fine that is a minimum of $5000 and a maximum of $100,000
Extreme – yes. The death of a child will be seen as a tragedy and that is a possibility.
The city now has full time support in tracking down what is believed to be a second rogue coyote.
What was also learned is that it is important for people to report their sightings of coyotes. Call Burlington Animal Services at 905-335-3030 to report where you saw a coyote
It is important for the people working at solving this problem and changing the behaviour of the animals is to know and understand any changes in the patterns of their behaviour.
 Six attacks on people to date. The belief is that there is a second and maybe a third coyote attacking people. Where are the coyotes? Where are the attacks taking place.
 Representative was before Council for close to two hours with two messages: Stop feeding the coyotes and report when you see a coyote. Have the movements of the coyotes ? Without data we don’t know. That data has to come from the public.
If you see them – report it.
Council debated a number of issues. There will be more bylaw officers. Getting that issue on the table was a little awkward – this council cannot bind the next council to any decisions they make. Hiring by law officers takes time.
Council heard a delegation from a Coyote Watch who was at the podium for a couple of hours. More on that in a separate report.
For the moment:
Don’t feed the coyotes – you will be ticketed and even taken to court and face very significant fines
And report what you see. Burlington Animal Services at 905-335-3030.
 By Staff
September 15th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
If you are new to the world of online casino gambling, then you probably have many questions. Let’s start with the fact that online casinos work basically just like regular physical casinos but with no actual machines.
 Your casino can be on you cell phone or in a home setup with all kinds of technology. There are three differences only. First, you get entertained from the comfort of your home without anybody bothering you while you are just trying to enjoy the game. Second, online casinos have a massive selection of slots, spins, games, and bets that no physical casino in the world can offer you. And third but not least, nowadays, with the development of the blockchain culture, you can play in online casinos with cryptocurrencies.
If you are a newbie, you probably already know these things. However, it is very possible that you are struggling at this point. You most probably have already dropped some online games, lost some money and now you are just questioning whether the whole thing was such a great idea. Here are some frequent questions of the newcomers and their answers to encourage you in this online journey.
Is it possible to always lose in an online casino?
After a few losses, it is only natural to feel stupid. It is natural that you might feel like this was a bad decision. It is possible that you feel like a win is not really possible at this point. What is important to remember is that statistically, it is absolutely impossible to always lose. You have to do two things. First, make enough effort to use your fully stacked patience. After this comes the second step – keep rolling online. The more you roll the better the chances or at least this is what statistics claim to be the case.
 Can math make a difference – it can – but seldom all that much of a difference. Can Math help me win in an online casino?
Saying math we mean different statistical assumptions. It is true that maths can be helpful to some extent. It can show you what are the chances of winning. It can also show you what is the best moment to come in the game with a roll. However, it is no secret that statistics are based on patterns and reactivity whereas, simply put, gambling is not exactly it. It is more of a destiny’s play – some days you are lucky, and on other days, you are just not. In all cases, you are always welcome to play the games of destiny online.
Tips for best winning chances playing online casino
At this point, you probably feel desperate to have even tried your luck. However, here are some tips on how to improve your winning chances for a reward, a bonus, and why not even the actual jackpot. Online casinos offer you all the comfort to win every perk in the world with literally not going out of your place and still having your money safe from any fraud risk. You can even do some bets on the go through the online mobile versions of the websites with no download activity required.
Know the rules
If you want to earn a lot of money from gambling in online casinos you should probably look up to the games that insist on serious attention. If we have to be honest, attention is key, but what is even more important is that you should know what is going on in the game.
This is not possible without actually studying the rules. We know that the desire for a win might be burning, but without knowing the rules of the game all that is going to happen is that you will surely lose money in online casinos unless some magic happens.
After studying the rules and knowing what you have to do in a game, it is very important to practice. You might want to jump into the deep waters of the serious games, but you can wait a little longer and try some demo versions of the games where you play with fake money so that you can earn real money a few days later.
Observe the game
 This is a scene from a movie – Oceans Eleven – a great gambling movie – there is always someone watching. It is important to understand that online casino gambling may be just entertainment for you, but after all, this is somebody’s business. Thinking of that the point of having a business is earning money and online casinos just like physical ones earn money from your losses.
There are professionals behind the scenes in these casinos who study the clients’ patterns and change the patterns of winning so that the clients may lose. The strategy here is: you find the strategy of the clients, and then observe how the winning patterns change. This is how you make a prediction on what your strategy has to be just to be one step ahead of the winning strategy change.Math time
There are some statistics created online for most spins and slot games. All you have to do is to research them and understand them. Having this knowledge, your chances of winning and having a successful payout improve dramatically.
Take a break
When it comes to serious games in website casinos, it is very important that all these statistics and predictions that you make take a lot of effort and energy. In this sense, it is absolutely okay if after a few games you feel tired. Here comes the discipline factor. You have to decide whether you would like to satisfy your ego and continue playing unsuccessfully, or you would take a break and start winning in online casinos later.
 VIP Programs
It is important to know that most licensed online casino websites have VIP packages. They offer great advantages as loyalty rewards. They offer games that are believed to be easier to win and many perks. Some of them might be a faster withdrawal process, a bigger welcome bonus, or a weekly bonus for your rolls during the weekend, for example. These VIP programs in the casinos can offer you a pattern of “Lose four games, and the fifth one is on us” where if you lose the fifth time, you do not lose, but if you win, the reward is all yours.
Online casinos may be a lot of fun, but they can be a trap as well. It is important to have good financial management skills so that you do not end up losing money that you do not have.
 By Cirillo Ambrosi
August 29, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Studies indicate that over the next few years, online casinos will become increasingly popular in Canada. According to the Canadian Gambling Association, there will be a considerable increase in the number of Canadians who gamble online, from 3.8 million in 2020 to 5.4 million by 2022.
According to the survey, average online gambling expenditures will increase from $385 in 2020 to $481 in 2022. Since it’s far simpler to bet online than it is to visit a traditional land-based casino, convenience is a significant issue for many Canadians.
What are some of the factors fuelling the growth of online casinos in Canada?
Wide Variety of Games
 Since there is fierce competition among Canadian online gambling service providers, it is more important than ever for operators to deliver the most incredible games and draw in new customers. As a result, Canadian players have access to a wide variety of casino games.
Compared to conventional land-based casinos, Canada casinos online provide a considerably more comprehensive variety of games. Numerous well-known software development businesses may contribute thousands of games to a gambling site’s gaming library.
Additionally, the range of games at online casinos available to Canadian gamers has dramatically enhanced their gaming experience. If you’re interested, you may play hundreds of fantastic games at numerous online betting sites. Prepare to have fun because some of these online gaming platforms may even offer freebies as a welcome incentive.
Great Bonuses and Other Online Casino Incentives
The abundance of bonuses and promotions offered by Canadian online casinos is another factor in their popularity. While rewards might take many different forms, they all have the same function. These bonuses offered by online casinos draw in new customers while luring returning ones.
Welcome bonuses are typically far more enticing and generous. New players are often welcomed with sizable sign-up and first deposit incentives. However, before you can cash out some of these bonuses, you must meet specific wagering requirements.
As long as a casino values its patrons; it will provide daily reload bonuses, unique incentives, weekly cashback, and adaptable loyalty programs. The majority of online casino bonuses in Canada are welcome bonuses, no-deposit bonuses, and free spins.
Multiple Payment Modes
To meet the demands of all players, Canadian gambling companies typically provide a range of payment methods. Credit and debit cards, digital wallets, bank transfers, and crypto-currency are some of them. Every player has a preferred payment method, and they search for it in the list of choices each time they sign in to an online casino.
Additionally, no casino wants to turn away potential customers just because they don’t accept their chosen payment method. MasterCard, Visa, and PayPal are the three payment methods that Canadian players utilize the most frequently.
The variety of options makes the transaction process easier for Canadian online gamers. All financial transactions are carried out with the highest level of security possible because of data encryption technology.
Gambling enthusiasts first search for venues that accept their preferred payment option. Each time, players look for solutions like PayPal and others that are readily available. Therefore, in the fiercely competitive gambling market, the availability of a wide range of payment mechanisms influences the choice of a site favorably.
Integration of Crypto and Blockchain
In the future, cryptocurrencies might contribute significantly to the funding of online gambling companies. This is because these payment options have many benefits, making them incredibly practical in the online gaming market.
Leading online gaming sites now accept crypto. Due to its benefits, a growing number of players are choosing Bitcoin, Dogecoin, and other cryptocurrencies. Both online gambling operators and players gain from the use of virtual currencies.
Playing with virtual currencies offers players privacy and anonymity. It’s also an affordable solution. This approach does not include any banks or financial institutions. Therefore, cryptocurrency exchange takes only a few seconds to complete.
New gamblers are drawn to online gambling by the transparency that blockchain creates. Keeping track of all game purchases and transactions ensures legality and reduces the possibility of fraud.
Convenience
 One of the main elements promoting the expansion of online gaming sites in Canada is accessibility. Provided you have an internet connection; you can play an endless number of games anytime, anyplace. Any conventional land-based gambling establishment cannot match this degree of flexibility.
The internet has also gotten better and more effective recently. With the introduction of 5G technology, the online gaming market has grown more. Because 5G networks will connect almost everything, including people, things, and gadgets, they are ideal.
Large volumes of data may be securely transmitted by devices across these networks, providing the best possible online gambling experience. Players can play whenever and wherever they choose if they have a dependable internet connection.
Growth in Mobile Casino Gaming
Budget phones, smartphones, tablets, and other mobile gadgets are frequently utilized for online gaming thanks to advancements in mobile technology and online resources. These gadgets are perfect for spinning the slots reels on tiny monitors. Each machine has access to the same set of features simultaneously, keeping graphics and animation.
You can access it using a smartphone after registering an account on the online webpage of a Canadian online gaming site from a PC. You may play while on the go for work, on vacation in the mountains or at sea, at the workplace, or in the comfortable setting of your home because the gameplay and your accolades are saved simultaneously.
Enhanced Security
Canadian online gaming sites have effectively deployed all of the most recent security measures, including data encryption, blockchain technology, and two-factor authentication. These security procedures ensure the maximum level of protection for online gamers. This is why many Canadians sign up for accounts at online casinos daily, feeling secure about their finances and personal and financial data.
In addition, unlike conventional brick-and-mortar casinos, internet players can play for free as long as they like before wagering real money—but only if they think the casino platform is reliable.
This does not, however, mean that unscrupulous black hat hackers are no longer a threat. Each gamer should take all necessary safety measures to protect themselves from data phishing scams.
By Pepper Parr
September 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Well – here is a decision that will keep the Monarchists very happy.
 Hearse bearing the Queen as it is about to enter Buckingham Palace Not only will everyone be able to watch the funeral at the Performing Arts Centre – the Mayor said she was going to be there.
But every employee of the city will get the 19th of September as a paid holiday.
Turns out that the collective Agreements the city has with the unions requires that they get the day off as a paid holiday.
Cost to the public purse $244,000
I asked the people at the Performing Arts Centre if their bar would be open. Thought it right and proper to hoist a pint to the Queen.
Bar will not be open.
 By Stephen White
September 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Stephen White, co-author of the Burlington Oakville Coyote Management report that was given to the City Manager some time ago delegated to council this morning. He did not mince his words.
I want to begin my remarks this morning by thanking the Corporate Services, Strategy, Risk & Accountability Committee for the opportunity to delegate on the proposed Coyote Response Strategy Escalation Protocols.
 Stephen White My name is Stephen White and I have been a Ward 5 Burlington resident for 47 years. Prior to 2014 I could count on the fingers of one hand the number of times I saw a coyote. The only time most of us saw one was if we were down in Bromley Creek and saw one in the distance. Interactions were infrequent.
I had my first coyote interaction in November 2014. I assure you it was not a moment from a Disney movie. I was walking my dog at the time, an older Collie, at 5:30 a.m. on my street. Three coyotes sixty feet away approached me from around a corner, saw us, and got within twenty feet. The Alpha male approached us from the front, and the two smaller pack animals approached from each side. As I turned to the one at the side the other one advanced in a widening arch. Had it not been for the intervention of a delivery driver for the Hamilton Spectator who drove his car up on the sidewalk blocking their advance, my experience may not have been limited to a frightening encounter.
I have been actively involved in this issue since early 2015. I delegated at Council 7 years ago almost to the day on this topic. At the time, I stood in these Council Chambers, and I said the City’s coyote management program was ineffective and piecemeal.
I questioned why there wasn’t consideration of other control measures other than restricting feeding and reporting coyote sightings on websites.
I mentioned that the City needed to be more proactive and involved in eliminating threats from wildlife. I said, to the chagrin of Councillor Craven at the time, that if something more definitive wasn’t done that some Burlington residents were going to be attacked or seriously hurt. I take no great pleasure or pride in saying “I told you so”.
In June of 2017 at a public meeting on coyotes attended by over 200 Burlington residents at Mainway Arena, I and other speakers again delivered the message that this City needed to get actively involved in controlling the coyote problem. Once again, our message landed on deaf ears. In September 2020 I watched in horror one morning as my next-door neighbour’s 12-year old cat was ambushed and shredded by three coyotes. My neighbour was so traumatized by this event she was off work for weeks and had to seek medical care. In one week in my neighbourhood seven cats went missing. One member of BOCM living in Ward 4 had a coyote scale the fence in their backyard and attack their small dog, resulting in a severally injured family pet and several thousand dollars in emergency vet bills.
My fellow BOCM co-founder, Julie Martin, has met with multiple residents, and documented several cases in her West Oakville neighbourhood of coyote attacks and stalking. In early 2021, she started an online petition on Change.org calling for Oakville and Burlington to adopt a more focused, specific plan to control coyotes which received over 700 signatories.
In March 2021 following yet another frustrating teleconference on the issue of coyote management replete with no definitive action plans, no comprehensive strategy, and where Julie, who actually instigated this meeting, was not even extended the courtesy of presenting or delegating, both of us reached our limit. We decided to create Burlington and Oakville Coyote Management, or BOCM. Over the course of 2021 our group met weekly, and the culmination of our work is the Report that is an Appendix. It contains eleven specific recommendations that are intended to protect residents and their pets. These recommendations were predicated on a multi-faceted approach that encompasses Analysis, Education, Prevention and Protection. Underlying these recommendations is our belief that in order to combat this problem an integrated, multi-faceted approach is needed in conjunction with the Town of Oakville.
At the heart of BOCM’s recommendations is our belief that public safety is paramount. Every resident in Burlington and Oakville has the right, and expectation, to be able to walk down their street at 2:00 a.m. or 2:00 p.m., and know that they are safe. They should not have to carry sticks, pepper spray, stones, whistles, alarms, or any other personal protection devices, to protect themselves, their children, or their pets.
Julie and I, as well as members of BOCM, have read the proposed Coyote Response Escalation Strategy. We wholeheartedly support the measures embodied in this Report, and we are pleased to lend our endorsement. In doing so, I also want to thank City Manager Commisso, the Mayor, and Councillor Stolte for their tacit support of our efforts to raise awareness. I especially want to acknowledge, with sincere thanks, the support of Councillor Paul Sharman who has patiently endured my incessant pleadings for the City to get involved and do more, and whose steadfast encouragement of BOCM’s efforts over the past few months is genuinely appreciated.
That being said, let me be blunt: BOCM believes that it has taken this City way too long to respond effectively to this problem. The City’s previously passive, non-interventionist approach to coyote management which implies that reporting coyote sightings on websites, refraining from feeding animals, and essentially, learning to live with it, are somehow sufficient remedies. As the events of the last few weeks have clearly shown, they aren’t.
Simply, this reliance upon simplistic solutions has been ineffectual, naïve and short-sighted. The focus needs to be public safety, not coyote rights.
This approach has placed an inordinate onus on individual citizens, with far too little support, direction and engagement from the City. Cheery bromides such as “living in harmony with nature”, and “don’t feed the coyotes” are cold comfort to residents who feel unsafe walking down the street for fear of being attacked. The last time I checked, coyotes don’t pay taxes, they don’t vote, and they also aren’t on the hook paying thousands of dollars in vet bills for injured pets.
The recent attacks on several residents and children should serve as a clarion call to everyone concerned about public safety. Finally, to those who may say this is an over-reach, or unnecessary, let me respectfully suggest some of the probable consequences of not adopting the measures contained in this Report. If the current situation continues unchecked, my prediction is that one of, or a combination of, four things will happen in future:
1. A resident is going to be seriously attacked, or God forbid, killed.
2. The City is going to be on the receiving end of a massive lawsuit for damages from the individual or family of the person severely attacked.
3. There will be a public outcry that will make the recent publicity around coyote attacks pale in comparison. and
4. In the absence of clear and compelling direction from the City citizens will intervene and take the law into their own hands. They will l lay traps, or they will put down poison. When traumatized, untrained and alarmed people do things in a spirit of irrationality and anger bad things happen, and often, innocent by-standers are negatively impacted. And lest you think I am being alarmist, I’ve had it confirmed from one of my neighbours this is exactly what is going on in one Niagara Region subdivision.
In summary, BOCM believes this Report is responsible, balanced, and goes a long way to addressing a long-standing and serious safety risk in this community, and we urge Council’s adoption in its entirety of this Report.
Thank you.
 By Staff
September 14th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Anne and Dave Marsden have been serving the Canadian community since 1990. Their mentor has always been Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Millions believe no-one has ever set the bar higher in terms of fulfillment of commitment to duty and service that came from a young wife and mother at the beginning of her 70 year reign.
 Both were in Burlington Council Chambers September 13, as delegates at a Council Standing Committee and an interested party in two public meetings. Anne has for years unsuccessfully addressed the issue of the removal of Canada’s Head of State portrait from the Burlington Council Chambers. It went missing during a make-over of the Chambers some years ago.
Dave’s attention was caught by a black ribbon on a corner of a portrait of the Queen that had reappeared in the Chambers since her death. Both were astounded that it took the Queen’s death for her to reappear in her place of honour in the Burlington Council Chamber.
After seeing the Queen’s portrait returned after her death, the Marsdens knew they had to write and determine if there was support for their belief that the Head of Burlington Council, Marianne Meed Ward needed to apologize to the Queen’s family and the Burlington community for the disrespect they believe has been shown to the Queen since the 2018 election.
The Marsden’s want to know how people feel about the way the city administration has handled the return of the Queens portrait to the Council Chamber and the failure, as they see it, of the Mayor to show some leadership on an issue. They believe the Mayor and city administration:
1. Failed to address the Queen’s portrait being returned to the Council Chamber – it was removed several years ago after the Chamber received an updated look. Then they have the audacity to return the portrait, this week with a black ribbon across the left hand top corner, several days after the Queen’s death.
2. Failed to recognize the Queen’s amazing record of service and duty upon her 70th Platinum Jubilee. Not a mention of it from the incumbent Head of Burlington Council when announcing events for the month of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. The Fountain in Veteran’s Square has a 25 year Jubilee plaque on it, but nothing was done for her 70th jubilee. The fountain, a Burlington Heritage piece, was rotting away until Alan Harrington joined the Heritage Advisory Committee and took up the Marsden’s cry to do something about this rotting heritage piece.
3. Failed to communicate to the Press that there was a Book of Condolences available at City Hall and that City Hall would be open when everyone believes it is closed.
4. Failed to recognize by either mention or one minute silence at the first Standing Committee that our Queen and Head of State has passed despite knowing Canada is in mourning for ten days as signified by the flags at half-mast. Would they have been put at half-mast if the order had not come from Ottawa?
5. Failed to retake their oath of allegiance to the new monarch King Charles III before getting into any decision making. When the Clerk was asked why, he advised current oath would suffice – when government bodies all over the world are taking the new oath of allegiance.
If the incumbent mayor, who is Head of Council has such disrespect for her boss we need not go into the disrespect she has for those she put herself forward to serve as leader of a council whose role is spelt out in the Municipal Act as to represent the people, their well-being and interests.
The incumbent Mayor owes an apology on behalf of our City to the Queen’s family.
The Marsden’s feel the readers of the Gazette have an opportunity to agree or disagree in the Comments Section as to whether they agree or disagree an apology is necessary.
On some issues there are strong feelings. For many the fact that Canada is a Constitutional Monarch doesn’t mean very much. For other – this is close to sacred ground.
.
By Staff
September 14, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The candidate meeting for ward 2 is turning out to be an occasion for some chit chat between neighbours and those seeking the ward seat on city council.
Jane Cooper Kelly wrote the principal of Lakeshore Public school explain what her group (Lakeshore Public School Ratepayers Association) had in mind when they gathered in front of the school on September 18th.
 Was there a “bait and switch” done by the planners of the candidate event? Is is an opportunity to get caught up with your neighbours. God help the coyote who happens to wander through the school yard.
In her note to the principal she said: “…It was a pleasure meeting with you today to discuss the upcoming community information meeting to be held outdoors, this Sunday on the school grounds.
“The purpose of the meeting is to discuss topics like the recent coyote attacks, and resident safety on the Centennial Multi-use Path, and on the streets in the community.
“The Lakeshore Public School Ratepayers Association believes that the safety of the families who live in the community are at risk.
“Our city councillor has been invited to attend the meeting to speak to the concerns of our community.
“The City of Burlington, Boards of Education, Community Associations and families have an overriding responsibility to keep people safe, including the most vulnerable: children.
“Simply put, it takes a village to raise a child.
“I will be asking Trustee Reynolds to request administrators in her “family of schools” to provide this information to all students.”
Here are the details of the meeting:
Lakeshore Community Information Meeting
September 18, 2022
3:30-5:30pm
Rain or Shine
By Pepper Parr
September 13th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Anne and Dave Marsden delegated at city council this morning on the outdoor patio program.
Anne spoke, David took notes.
Anne is running for the office of Mayor and she came out, almost swinging for the little guy – the people who runs the restaurants that took a financial beating during the lock-downs.
The hospitality sector has yet to fully recover.
 The patios kept many of the restaurants alive Less traffic and fewer employees – both bad news for the sector.
 The public loved them. The restaurateur was happy. The people who worked long hours, on their feet for lousy pay found or perhaps learned during the lockdowns that there was more to life than carrying food and drinks to people who often, but not always, really didn’t treat them all that well.
Anne, who can be quite bureaucratic is strong on procedure. Date, times and the name of a report matter to her. She started out this morning telling council that Report PL 67 22 tells us that “on November the 23rd 2021, Staff directions were issued by council regarding the future of the city of Burlington outdoor patio program.
“The directions required staff report to council outlining a plan and process for moving forward with a permanent citywide outdoor patio program, amongst other matters. Those directions were issued on November 23 2021, which we expected would see a permanent city wide outdoor patio program in place for June 2022 at the latest.
“Instead on July 29 2022, staff participated in a walking study that has led to this report before council for q2 2023 that will set out draft city wide patio guidelines.
“The outdoor patio business since COVID was we believe the saving grace for our restaurant and pubs. Why does this council not kind of about our business especially those located in downtown which exist in the middle of construction like never before?
“To have a shoe ensure this was all done and in place by June 2022. It seems you make a decision and regardless of the impact on our small businesses or safety of our families, example coyote report, in terms of not moving forward the issue is left to stagnate or peace to do so.
“The laissez faire attitudes towards our businesses and families must stop. These are real people who own the businesses who have faced multiple hardships and must have their needs met in terms of what must be looked after.
“As best as we can as a city council needs to give serious consideration to the preparation of city wide patio guidelines being before council for review, change and approval by March 2023. To ensure another year is not going to go by without a permanent plan for city wide outdoor patios.
 Those closer to the lake were usually always busy. “We are not suggesting the details that must be addressed to ensure the patios are safe and do not in fit interfere with access to the community by those who have mobility issues which has occurred in the past are not getting the attention they need.
“What we are stating however, is we need to hear from council decision making that will see city wide patios available that meet all the safety and access issues by June 2023. We owe it to our businesses and those who wish to utilize them in a safe and pleasant environment to ensure this happens.
After all, the legislated role of this council is to represent the public and to consider their well-being and best interests of the municipality.
With the delegation at an end – the Chair asked if there were any questions ? None, not a word, nada, zip.
Every member of Council has advocated for the welfare and well being of the downtown business community.
Not this time.
Anne Marsden is right – just what is Council doing and why the delays?
By Pepper Parr
September 13th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
We wrote earlier today about the Crisis Management Team (CMT) that is going to handle the coyote problem and we asked the city Communications people where the mandate for the team comes from.
Turns out the city has a bylaw in place that allows for the creation of any number of CMT’s
We asked Communications where does the mandate to set up these Crisis Management Teams come from?
“For this the CMT gets its mandate from the fire-and-emergency-services/emergency-plan-and-preparedness bylaw.
 City Manager Tim Commisso: Is there any limit to the number of committees he can serve as Chair on and still be effective? The Team is chaired by the City Manager.
The members of the Team depends on the situation: for this issue it includes staff from Communications, Building & Bylaw, Customer Experience, HR, Finance, Corp. Strategy Team, Recreation, Community & Culture, Roads, Parks and Forestry, Finance, Legal and the Mayor.
At first glance it appears a little on the unwieldy side. Input from some of the city departments would be needed – but being able to pivot should there be a coyote bite that results in a fatality needs a small tightly focused group with strong leadership.
Can you imagine a situation that calls for three different CMT’s – and the City Manager chairing all of them ?
All this will come to the surface at the meeting on Wednesday – the 14th.
It will be interesting how the Council incumbents handle this. Will they waffle and mumble and place a new order for Foxcroft whistles?
So far there hasn’t been any real leadership on this issue. And it isn’t over yet.
Stephen White: Prior to starting Competitive Edge Coach he worked for Scotiabank and was responsible for the design, development and implementation of the Bank’s Occupational Health and Safety Program. Stephen has taught t McMaster and Algoma Universities, and is currently teaching at Sheridan College. In addition to Masters degrees in Public Administration and Industrial Relations, Stephen holds the CHRL designation through the Human Resources Professionals Association of Ontario. In August 2021 he attained the Professional Certified Coaching designation (“PCC”). Stephen While, who along with Julie Martin from Oakville wrote the Burlington Oakville Coyote Management report that didn’t get distributed to council for months – City Manager admits now that he should have ensured that Council members were given the report.
White expects to be delegating to the Standing Committee on Wednesday. One of the question he asks is: Does anyone know just how many coyotes there are in the south eastern part of the city. There have been six bite incidents so far.
How many legal claims – No one is bringing that subject up.
By Staff
September 13th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
The the First Annual Pooch Plunge took place on September 10th at Nelson Pool in Burlington.
This amazing event was organized by Burlington Humane Society.
 Was the pool drained after the Pooch Plunge? The event started at 1:00 pm for small dogs, followed by the large boys and girls.
 Did that dog manage to get out of the pool on his own ? Tennis balls were provided for all participants and goodie bags from Rens.
Lots of vendors on site as well
This is an event that just has to grow larger every year.
Photos taken by Mozelle Cole
By Pepper Parr
September 13th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
Keith Demoe decided he wanted to sit on city council partly because he didn’t like the decisions they were making but more importantly to him was the way the decisions were being made.
Demoe come out of that part of the private sector that sees technology, particularly Information Technology, as the tool that is going to solve all our problems.
He spent 20 years with SAP – systems, applications, and products.
 Keith Demoe takes a clear eyed view on just what the issues are. He then, with a partner, went out on their own to market extensions to the SAP applications.
He prospered.
He first described himself as a progressive but didn’t expand on just what that meant.
Our meeting, which took up the best part of two hours started with Demoe telling me that he wanted to create a portal, an electronic address if you will, that ward 2 people could go to to find all the information they wanted.
Demoe was clearly not aware of the Service Burlington department in place to provide just that service.
Demoe believes people in Burlington have great ideas that are not being given the time and attention they deserve. Demoe isn’t going to get any argument for the significant number of people in the city who have given up on the idea of delegating – they don’t feel they are listened to.
In the 11 years the Gazette has been covering city council I cannot recall a single idea/project/initiative that was brought to council as a delegation that was then acted upon.
Demoe wants to be part of a city council that changes that.
He lives in the downtown core – in a condominium.
He has taken a leave of absence from his consulting/application development work and will phase himself out of that job should he be elected.
Once one gets past that first awkward stage with Keith Demoe he get animated.
Like anyone running for public office in Burlington he has views on the intensification that few are very happy about. The facts are what Demoe focuses on – “Burlington is going to have to grow up and not out because there is no more land for new traditional single family residential structures that have been built in the city since the end of WWII.
He looks at the farming sector and wants to know who owns the land and if it isn’t farmers who want to work the fields – then who is it and what do they want to do with the land longer term ?
What bothers Demoe is this: the public is not being given the facts.
 The issues as Demoe sets them out on his web site. Expanding the urban boundary which stops at Hwy 5 and the 407, is a huge concern for many. The moment you move that boundary as much as a foot north it will be very hard to stop it going further – the only immediate impediment is that the land is not serviced – which would result in more estate type housing.
 Keith Demoe: his thinking does focus on the real problems. At this point Demoe has no problem pointing to what he sees as the huge problem: the different interests between those who want affordable housing so they can actually live in Burlington and those who want to protect their equity.
Protecting their equity means having property values that are sky high that make it possible for people to sell and bank a considerable capital gain on the house they bought 20 years ago and those who at this point in time can’t get past the inability to come up with the required down payment.
While his views do not appear to be cast in stone his thinking does focus on the real problem. Demoe wants facts on the table so that voters can make informed decisions
Where is the Demoe campaign funding coming from? Keith is using his own money to cover his campaign costs – any money from outside the immediate family would be small donations from people he knows.
The Paletta interests have reached out to him – he hasn’t met with anyone yet
Demoe intends to make heavy use of video – I got the sense it would be along the lines of what Marianne Meed Ward did in her 2010 election.
Right now the campaign is a boots on the ground, knocking on doors operation where he is listening and taking notes.
Keith Demoe is at the least a contender.
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