 By Staff
September 27th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
One of the best reasons to live near Toronto is to take part in its booming entertainment world.
Residents in Hamilton and Burlington can travel into the city whenever they’re interested in joining the fun—then retreat back to the comfort of home when it’s time to call it a day. As one of North America’s most bustling metropolises, it’s not hard to find something to do in the city.
 Thriving is probably the best way to describe the city. But it’s always a good idea to stay at the forefront of Toronto’s latest trends in nightlife and entertainment. After all, the city is known for its underground projects, indie shows, and similarly low-key events. Only those in the know will be able to make the most of it.
Let’s take a closer look at the biggest trends in the Toronto area, including digital and in-person entertainment.
iGaming Diversifies
Those following casino news might have noticed a few trends hitting virtual platforms. Given the popularity of online casinos across Canada, it’s no surprise that the industry is constantly evolving. But what’s on the docket for the coming year?
Some providers are looking to build out their seasonal offerings, like Wildz’s summer deals from this year. These types of special events help build on the hype of each season. But they also help introduce first-time gamers to Canada’s booming casino scene. From slots to blackjack to roulette, there’s something for everyone.
Escape Rooms Take Off
 The city has more Escape Rooms that can be covered during a short visit. Escape rooms have slowly become more popular across the country—but they’re preparing for a boom in Toronto. The city is home to a handful of high-production escape rooms, which offer satisfying critical thinking challenges blended with immersive themes. Just like with casino gaming, these offer a great way to explore a new and highly entertaining hobby.
Toronto is home to seasoned escape room organizers, including Secret City Adventures, The Great Escape Canada, Imaginarium, and Mission45. Don’t worry—they offer challenges at a range of difficulty levels, which means you can focus on fun more than critical thinking.
More Indie Music Events
Toronto has always been a hub for indie and folk music. However, it’s stepped up its range of indie events over the last five years. With NOW Magazine and UpFRONT Festival taking center stage, there’s even more diverse music for locals to sample. Not only is the range of artists expanding, but the events are also growing in size and scope.
If you’re looking to discover a new musical obsession, then look into the latest events from NOW. If concerts aren’t your thing, then you can also explore music events. Some are based on teaching about instruments and music, while others are designed to showcase retro music and even variety-show-style performances. Best of all, many events are priced affordably, which makes for a great weekend affair or even a first date.
Fashion Takes Center Stage
 TIFF is when Hollywood is located in Toronto Toronto is home to thousands of influencers. One of the more unique ways that they’re influencing the city’s entertainment trends is through fashion. Usually, the Toronto International Film Festival marks the height of the city’s fashion-forward events. The red carpet is lined with celebrities in high-end getups.
But thanks to the presence of influencers, there are more pop-up and indie design shops around the city than ever before. These showcase more ‘indie’ forms of fashion, just like Toronto’s music scene. They’re one way that fans of the TIFF red carpet can start to incorporate the same pieces into their own wardrobe.
While fashion doesn’t traditionally fall into the realm of entertainment, Toronto’s growing number of boutique shops, second-hand stores, and edgy pop-ups are a great way to spend an afternoon. And who says shopping isn’t entertainment?
By Julieta Belen Correa
September 27th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Are you trying to understand the online casino world in Canada but unsure where to get started? Revenue in online casino gambling in Canada is said to be around the 4.19 billion dollar mark in Canada alone for 2024. This means that it is a massive industry that is filled with nuances that you must understand to ensure you do not get lost in the casino terrain.
 Understanding the Casino world in Canada. This article aims to shed light on some of the most important factors you should consider when looking at online casinos. It doesn’t mean that you have to play but for an industry this big, it might just be interesting for you to know what this sector is all about and should you ever find yourself wanting to engage, you can do so with as much information at your disposal as possible.
Safety Comes First
The first thing you need to think about when it comes to online casinos is finding a safe one. There is nothing worse than signing up for a site only to realize it is not secure, doesn’t have the correct licenses or simply isn’t up to the legal space that other online casinos are at. Trying to make a comparison between sites, especially if you are new, is really tough. It’s not easy to know what or how to compare certain factors, as you don’t even know what to look for. That’s why finding a reputable site that does this work for you is a clever idea. Sites like BonusFinder Canada, which focuses on the Canadian side of your questions and has been around for a long time, are a step in the right direction. It is on these sites that you will be able to decipher between different platforms, as they will make the comparison for you. A little like looking at the mobile phone store when trying to decide which phone to choose and seeing them set next to each other with their features and capabilities, that’s what BonusFinder aims to do just in the online casino gaming industry.
Know Your Bonuses
 No deposit bonus: this is a bonus that you can use when you don’t want to make your own investment. The next thing you need to look at is the online casino bonuses on offer. The main point is that you know that online casino bonuses exist and the sub-point is knowing that there are different casino bonuses out there. Trying to examine bonus for bonus is really hard so just knowing the basics behind each is a good start.
- Welcome bonuses: just as the name implies, this is a bonus that you receive when you start on a site. It’s the first bonus that you will engage with and it’s the easiest to get your hands on. All you have to do is sign up for a casino site and that’s about it.
- No deposit bonus: this is a bonus that you can use when you don’t want to make your own investment. If you are new to a gaming site and unsure of whether or not you want to invest, you can first try to see if they have a no deposit match and then use the bonus rewards you receive to navigate the site.
- Deposit match: once you know that you like a site and want to engage with it, you can think about making an investment. That’s where the deposit match comes in handy as it allows you to receive a certain percentage for your efforts. Say you invest $100 and the casino offers a 50% deposit match, this means that you will receive an additional $50 with which you can play.
- Loyalty Bonus: a good option if you know that you can play games at specific times. The point of the loyalty bonus is not to force you to play often but rather to show up when they really need you to. An online casino might issue a reward saying that players who engage with a specific game at a specific time will receive X amount of free spins and free tokens for their loyalty.
- Referral bonus: if you know that you have a friend or two that want to also start playing the online casino game you’re on, then you should make use of the referral bonus. This is a reward that you receive for bringing someone new to the site and the player you have invited also receives something for it. It’s a win-win situation for both of you.
- Payment method bonus: some online casinos are all about digital wallets and that’s where this bonus comes into play. If you are able to make deposits and withdrawals using a certain payment method, e,.g., cryptocurrency, then you can get your hands on the payment method bonus. The whole idea here is to spend as little time waiting for transactions and also pay lower fees.
 It will be interesting to see is whether artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) have any impact on this industry going forward. Keep Technology in Mind
As you can see from the above, there are quite a few things you need to be aware of when it comes to online casinos in Canada. You have likely noticed many changes over the past years but what will be interesting to see is whether artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) have any impact on this industry going forward. They are already showing signs of it, however, it’s hard to say in just what capacity this will happen. Only time will tell so stay tuned.
 By Pepper Parr
September 26th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
She isn’t just the MP for Burlington; she isn’t just the Mother of two children – she is the Government House leader in the House of Commons – a role that is critical to the operation of a government on a day to day basis.
 Karina Gould speaking to the thousands that took part in the Terry Fox Run for Cancer Research. Days later she sits in the House of Commons helping to keep a government alive. It calls for a quick mind, a deft touch and an understanding of what can and can’t be achieved.
 Karina Gould sits to the left of the Prime Minister – where she advises minute by minute. It’s a tough job. The men and woman in the House of Commons are handling the strongest force there is in a democratic society – power.
Karina Gould’s job is to work with the leadership of the other political parties in the House of Commons and find the solutions they can all accept.
In times as trying as these – that is not easy.
There are many in Burlington that would rather see someone else representing the city in Ottawa. There are many that would like an election to be called and have an opportunity to get rid of Karina Gould.
Understand the role she is currently playing. Few do it well. So far Gould is doing her job quite well. Be proud of what you MP is doing. It is far more important than most people realize.
Should the government prevail in the next election – it will be interesting to see what she is asked to take on next.
Don’t be surprised if she is made the Deputy Prime Minister at some point in the future.
 By Staff
September 26th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
This should be fun.
Justin Trudeau, Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, will join supporters at an open Liberal fundraising event in Mississauga on September 27, 2024.
 The Prime Minister is not going to back down and so far Poilievre hasn’t found a way to defeat him in the House of Commons. Given the reception the Prime Minister usually gets these days it is a little like baiting the bear.
What the Prime Minister is making very very clear is that he is ready for an election with no intention of backing away.
Federal MPs on Wednesday voted down 211-120 a motion stating that “the House has no confidence in the Prime Minister and the government.” Both the NDP and Bloc Quebecois joined the Liberals in defeating that motion.
After a first failed attempt, the Conservatives have tabled another non-confidence motion to try to bring down Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government.
 Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s second motion of the fall sitting was presented to the House of Commons on Thursday, just a day after his first one was defeated. The motion was in Poilievre’s name; he was not there to table it – MP Luc Berthold put it forward in the Parliament.
The Liberals would appear to be safe at least until late October when the BLOC Quebecois has said they will not support the government unless the changes they want to pensions are changed.
 New Democrats need to see Pharmacare made law before they stop supporting the government on a confidence motion. Also – the NDP Pharmacare bill is still in the Senate where there doesn’t appear to be any rush to pass that legislation before the end of the year. The New Democrats want to see that bill passed in the Senate so that it can come back to the House and be sent to the Governor General and be made the law of the land..
An election that gets called in October would mean campaigning close to Christmas – No one wants an election around Christmas time – elections in the winter are nightmares to run – door to door just doesn’t work at that time of year.
The government is committed to call an election in October of 2025 – are their ways to get around that – there are always ways to get around laws – if there weren’t lawyers would go to bed without a meal.
Interesting times ahead.
 By Staff
September 26th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
If getting out into the country and touring art studios sprinkled along country roads the Fine Arts Society of Milton (FASM) event could make this weekend a little different.
 Some of Barb Tate’s work. FASM artists will be opening their studios throughout Milton, Kilbride, and Carlisle. Pass through Campbellville, Limehouse, Eden Mills, rural Rockwood, and Guelph.
 Marnie Behm will have this piece of art at her location. Route maps are on the FASM web site along with a list of the more than 38 artists who will be displaying and selling their artwork in 16 locations on Saturday the 28th and Sunday the 29th from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Maps and details can be found HERE.
 By Staff
September 26th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Every year, our local artist and community groups come together for Culture Days without fail. To celebrate the amazing talent of local artists, the public art program has commissioned 20 Burlington writers and artists to showcase their work at The Beachway. Residents will be able to enjoy these pieces during the Culture Days celebration from Sept. 20 to Oct. 13, 2024 along the Beachway path. The City of Burlington is proud to be a part of this initiative that aims to raise awareness, provide accessibility and encourage participation in the arts and cultural life of Burlington.
Participating Artists:
-
 Short descriptions of work done by local artists spread out along the Beachway. Alexandra Basekic
- Amal Ahmed Albaz
- Angelica Lamoureux
- Brunna Fanticelli de Moura
- Candice Sheehan
- Craig Brown
- Danielle Izzard
- Elena Espinoza
- Elizabeth Walker
- Frank Myers
- Hayley Verrall
- Mary Lynn Futers
- Nikki Rottenberg
- Nitin Narula
- Pei Yuan Li
- Rebecca Remme
- Samantha Le Grand
- Stephie Leitch
- Teresa Seaton
- Vanessa Cress Lokos
The Performing Arts Centre is offering a full day of free and accessible community programming.
Saturday – the 28th from noon to 4:00 pm
The public is invited to enjoy free coffee and tea while discussing what Burlington Arts Organizations have to offer. Organizations we have on site are:
 Burlington Symphony will be playing for part of the afternoon. Burlington Student Theatre
Burlington Symphony Orchestra (BSO)
Burlington New Millenium Orchestra (BNMO)
Burlington Footnotes
Southern Ontario Lyric Opera (SOLO)
Mattson & Company Dancers
Halton Black History Awareness Society (HBHAS)
Redleaf Cultural Integration (RCI)
ONE Burlington
Tyrsa Ukranian Dance School
Backstage tours available every 30 minutes starting at noon.
By Thayse de Souza Felicio
September 27, 2024
BURLINGTON. ON
In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, Canadian businesses face numerous challenges and opportunities. Disruptive technologies, which fundamentally alter the way industries operate, are reshaping the competitive landscape and forcing companies to adapt or risk becoming obsolete. These innovations are not only transforming traditional sectors but also creating entirely new markets and business models, offering opportunities for those prepared to embrace change.
 Photo credit: Andy Holmes Cryptocurrency: A New Frontier in Canadian Business
One of the most prominent disruptive technologies is cryptocurrency, particularly Bitcoin. As the first and most widely known cryptocurrency, Bitcoin has gained significant traction in Canada, influencing various sectors. Among these is the rise of bitcoin casinos, online gambling platforms that allow players to wager using cryptocurrency. These platforms offer a decentralized, secure, and transparent alternative to traditional payment methods, reflecting broader shifts in financial transactions across the country.
While bitcoin casinos represent one niche application of cryptocurrency, the impact of these technologies extends far beyond online gambling. Industries such as finance, healthcare, retail, and transportation are increasingly adopting cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology, pushing businesses to rethink their strategies and embrace innovation.
 Bitcoin has transformed retail by pushing traditional brick-and-mortar businesses to adopt digital strategies. For instance, the rise of e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Shopify has transformed retail by pushing traditional brick-and-mortar businesses to adopt digital strategies. In Canada, some online retail platforms are beginning to accept cryptocurrency payments, appealing to a new generation of consumers who value privacy, security, and transparency in their transactions.
Artificial Intelligence: Automation and Efficiency in Canadian Businesses
Increased Productivity Through AI
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning are among the most influential disruptive technologies affecting Canadian businesses. AI can automate tasks that were traditionally performed by humans, enhancing efficiency and productivity across sectors like manufacturing, customer service, and logistics. For instance, AI-powered chatbots allow Canadian companies to provide 24/7 customer support, streamlining operations while reducing costs.
The Challenges of Job Displacement
However, the widespread adoption of AI brings with it challenges. As more tasks become automated, concerns around job displacement have grown. Canadian businesses must now not only adopt AI but also upskill their workforce to remain competitive in the AI-driven future. By investing in reskilling programs, businesses can equip their employees with the technical skills needed for emerging roles in AI development and management.
 Blockchain is a decentralized ledger technology that enhances security, transparency, and efficiency in business operations. Blockchain: Transforming Transparency and Security
Blockchain in Supply Chain and Financial Services
Another disruptive technology gaining momentum in Canada is blockchain. Blockchain is a decentralized ledger technology that enhances security, transparency, and efficiency in business operations. From supply chain management to financial services, has transformed retail by pushing traditional brick-and-mortar businesses to adopt digital strategies. In the retail sector, blockchain-based supply chain platforms track products from their origin to consumers, ensuring authenticity and reducing the risk of counterfeiting.
 Fintech offers Canadians new ways to save, invest, and access credit, disrupting the traditional banking model. The Growth of Fintech Startups
Canada’s fintech startups are already leveraging blockchain to innovate within the financial sector. Decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms, which provide financial services without intermediaries, are becoming increasingly popular. These platforms offer Canadians new ways to save, invest, and access credit, disrupting the traditional banking model.
Adapting to Disruptive Technologies
The Need for Investment in Innovation
Adapting to disruptive technologies requires significant investment of time, resources, and effort. Canadian businesses must be willing to embrace change, experiment with new ideas, and invest in acquiring the right talent. To remain competitive, companies need to foster a culture of innovation and collaboration, encouraging employees to think creatively and develop new solutions.
Research and Development as a Path to Growth
Investing in research and development is critical for Canadian businesses seeking to stay ahead of technological disruptions. By leveraging these innovations, companies can create new products and services that meet the evolving needs of consumers. For example, fintech startups in Canada are not only adopting blockchain but are also exploring AI, machine learning, and big data to create personalized financial services for a tech-savvy customer base.
Conclusion
Disruptive technologies are rapidly transforming Canada’s business landscape, from cryptocurrency and blockchain to AI and machine learning. While they pose challenges like job displacement and the need for investment, businesses that adapt can thrive in the digital age. As cryptocurrency grows, platforms like bitcoin casinos will increasingly impact the economy, offering new experiences and driving the expansion of the crypto ecosystem. Ultimately, disruptive technologies will continue to fuel innovation and create opportunities for Canadian businesses to evolve and succeed.
 By Pepper Parr
September 25th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Parents are in the process of registering their children for various sports events.
 Fire on Ice – a girls team that did very well at the cahmpionship level. Those with girls in the family are struggling to get their daughters a reasonable amount of ice time on a hockey team. The boys get the time they need – girls playing hockey has grown significantly in the past three years – the number of ice pads haven’t grown.
 The problem is there isn’t anything in the way of land that an ice pad can be built on. The soon to be announced opening of the Skyway arena will add capacity but not near enough given the demand that a rising population will need.
The Parks and Recreation have made it clear that there aren’t going to be any new ice pads because there is no space.
 Will Short Will Short, president of the Burlington Girls Hockey Club suggested at a delegation he made to City Council was that there is all kinds of space that could be created.
Put ice pads on the second and third floors of some of the 25 story towers that are being built around the GO stations. They did that with the former Maple Leaf Gardens site in Toronto when the original rink was decommissioned and a Loblaws opened on the ground level, a basketball court and fitness centre on the second floor with the hockey rink on the third floor with the old domed roof.
It can be done – it has been done elsewhere – getting Burlington to do just that has been a challenge for the city.
Will is right – how do you get the Planning department to talk to the developers and suggest that a hockey rink in a high rise might justify a 30 story high rise.
It will be interesting to see where this idea (opportunity perhaps) might/could go.
Related news story:
Girls hockey club suggest council could do more to make ice pad time available
By Pepper Parr
September 25th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
At a ward level meeting Councillor Paul Sharman explained to the decent sized audience that “Through its Housing Pledge, the City of Burlington has made a commitment to advance 29,000 Housing Units by 2031. He added that Burlington is expected to grow to 265,000 people by 2051
 The green and the blue lines tell us that the population of the city is getting older – the younger demographic is stable. This creates a real problem for the city administration. The City’s Official Plan directs a significant amount of growth to Major Transit Station Areas (MTSAs)
The elephant in the room was the Branthaven Oval Court subdivision. It is huge and people in the community are not impressed.
They spoke quite passionately about the traffic problems that have now and can’t understand why the city is even thinking about adding more housing – this time in a very density xxx
Councillor Sharman, along with the three people from the Planning department – Jamie Tellier, Director of Community Planning,Alison Enns, Manager, Policy & Community Initiatives and Kyle PLas, Manager, Development & Design explained that at this point the city does not have an application from the developer. All the public has seen is what was shown at a community meeting when the developer laid out what their thinking was at this point.
 Application for Draft Plan of Subdivision to accommodate seven (7) mixed use blocks varying in size from 4,028 m2 to 8,913 m2 and one creek block of 3,438 m2.
Later the size of the development changed to a mixed-use development consisting of high-density residential, office, community and commercial uses. A total of eight (8) towers are proposed, ranging in height from 11 to 30 storeys with 1,996 residential units and approximately 12,500 m2 of retail, office, daycare and library uses. The proposed development is intended to be completed in phases.
Assuming two people per unit – and that is a low number – there will be something in the order of 4000 people living in an areas that was a mix of commercial, light industrial on the north side of Fairview and residential on the south side of Fairview.
The Appleby GO station is a block or two away – perhaps too far for people to walk to – shuttle transit would be needed. Sherwood Forest Park is very close by. The developer will have a strong story to tell – which suggests that in the fullness of time – the development will see shovels in the ground.
The people who were at the meeting could see their community undergoing a significant change – they were asking publicly is this was the time to sell their homes and look for a different place to love and raise their children.
Situations like this are going to take place in almost every ward in the city. The development hot spots shown in the map below are around the three GO stations. There isn’t much in the way of green-space where the traditional single detached homes were built that makes Burlington what it is today and has been for a decade and a half.
 The yellow highlighted areas are where the city expects to see the high rise housing. The red circles are locations where development could also take place. While not relevant to the ward 5 meeting – the King Road development in Aldershot and the plans to redevelop the Waterfront Hotel site are also at different stages.
There is a lot of concern over the immense growth that has taken place in the size of the full time staff at city hall. Every department is undergoing changes – Planning needs people to administer the development applications that are much much bigger than anything the city had had to handle in the past. Creating Parks and recreation services requires more people (and more in the way of imagination and innovation) to meet the needs of the additional 65,000 people that are going to call Burlington home in the next ten years.
 A rendering of the two 30 and 35 storey towers the developer wants to put in place of the current Waterfront hotel.  The Preferred concept has gone through several versions – a decision on what could be developed is being made at the Land Tribunal. Getting people used to the changes that are going to take place will not be easy. It will take many more events like the one Councillor Sharman held in his ward; probably semi-annual updates.
Sharman and Councillor Kearns have been doing a decent job of working with their communities. Kearns has told people that she will not run as Councillor in the 2026 election – she has hinted that she might run for Mayor.
Ward 1 has a Councillor Kelvin Galbraith has significant conflicts of interest which is not a crime – he has property in the ward that will be developed making it difficult for him to represent the interests of the community which may not align with his personal interests.
It is hard to say what ward 3 Councillor Rory Nisan will do going forward. He is the city representative on the Federation Canadian Municipalities, the national voice of municipal government . That responsibility has him missing many council meetings. He no longer lives in the ward he represents.
 A, B, C, D and E are expected to be consolidated and developed. Galbraith owns A, C and D. He has a Memorandum agreement with the owner of E. B is a garage at the corner of Plains Road and Waterdown Road – a ten minute walk to the GO station Galbraith and Nisan took part in a video related to the King Road development that left many wandering just who the Councillors were working for – click HERE and figure out just who they represent.
 CAO Hassaan Basit – at the six month point in the job. How is he doing so far – hard to tell – he has made a lot of changes at the senior staff level. Add to all this the growth of the size of the city budget and the tax increases – you get an almost toxic mix of problems to be tackled.
The City has a relatively new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Hassaan Basit, Significant changes in the structure of the senior staff levels have been made. These things take time to come together and create a team that meets the daily challenges.
All part of the change taking place – and all part of the anxiety and concern families deal with as the wonder what home is going to look like in a decade.
 By Pepper Parr
September 24th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
One of the things missing from the very successful Terry Fox Run for Cancer two weeks ago was the announcement that there would be a new $5 bill issued with Terry Fox as the image.
 The short list of eight bank NOTE-able Canadians whose portraits could appear on the next $5 note was released by the Bank of Canada. More than 600 nominees met the qualifying criteria for selection and deliberation by an independent Advisory Council. The Bank of Canada issued a list of eight people who were on a short list.
And that’s where it sits.
Oakville North Burlington MP Pam Damoff was at one point leading the local drive for a new bank note with Terry Fox on it.
 A graphic of a new $5 bill featuring Terry Fox – created by a citizen and not the Mint – the people who will print the new bills once they have been approved by the Bank of Canada Given that she has announced that she will not be running for office in 2025 who will lead the drive.
An announcement from the Bank of Canada would be a small good news jolt – something we all need.
By Staff
September 24th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
City of Burlington administrative services will be closed on Monday, Sept. 30 to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Sept. 30 is also recognized as Orange Shirt Day, an Indigenous-led grassroots day inspired by the story of Indian Residential School Survivor Phyllis Webstad. As part of Orange Shirt Day, residents can come to Spencer Smith Park (1400 Lakeshore Rd) to reflect and take part in a Walk for Reconciliation and Peace, hosted by local indigenous people.
Opening remarks will begin at 6 p.m., from the pavilion at the east end of the park, with a walk to follow along the Waterfront Trail ending at Beachway Park for a tobacco ceremony. Additional details can be found on the city’s online events calendar at burlington.ca/calendar. Participants are encouraged to wear orange shirts and moccasins if they have them.
We encourage residents to visit the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation website for educational materials and resources.
| City Service |
Holiday Closure Information |
| Animal Services |
The Animal Shelter at 2424 Industrial St. will be closed to appointments on Monday, Sept. 30. To report an animal control related emergency on a holiday, please call 905-335-7777. |
| Burlington Transit |
Burlington Transit will operate on a regular weekday schedule on Monday, Sept. 30. For real-time bus information and schedules, visit myride.burlingtontransit.ca.
The Downtown Transit Terminal, at 430 John St., and Specialized Dispatch will be open on Monday, Sept. 30. |
| City Hall |
Service Burlington and the Building, Renovating and Licensing counter on the main floor of City Hall at 426 Brant St., will be closed to all appointments and walk-in service on Monday, Sept. 30.
Many service payments are available online at burlington.ca/onlineservices.
For online development services, MyFiles can be used by residents who have applied for Pre-Building Approval. Check the status of Pre Building Approval applications at burlington.ca/MyFiles. |
| Halton Court Services – Provincial Offences Office |
Court administration counter services at 4085 Palladium Way will be closed on Monday, Sept. 30.
Except for the holiday 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 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Many services are also available by email at burlingtoncourt@burlington.ca or online at Halton Court Services. Payment of Provincial Offences fines is available 24/7 at www.paytickets.ca. |
| Parking |
Paid parking will be in effect on Monday, Sept. 30.
NOTE:
- The Waterfront parking lots (east and west at 1286 Lakeshore Rd.) do not provide free parking on holidays
- Parking exemptions are required to park overnight on city streets and for longer than five hours. Visit burlington.ca/parkingexemptions.
- Please make an online reservation using Park Pass to visit Lowville Park on weekends. Reservations are free and available in three-hour time slots
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| Recreation Programs and Facilities |
Recreation facilities are open for registered and drop-in programs and rentals on Monday, Sept. 30. Please note: The Burlington Seniors Centre is open for drop-ins only and Bistro service is not available on Monday, Sept. 30. Drop-in recreation program schedules are available at burlington.ca/dropinandplay.
Customer Service
Recreation, Community and Culture customer service is available to assist you in person at recreation facility counters during program times. Customer service is also available:
- By email at liveandplay@burlington.ca
- By phone at 905-335-7738, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday (including Sept. 30) and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
|
| Roads, Parks and Forestry |
The administrative office will be closed on Monday, Sept. 30. Essential services will be provided as required. |
Links and Resources
By Staff
September 24th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Content picked up from Queen’s Park Observer
 Bonnie Crombie: Can she pull it off? Or will beer in the corner store be all Doug Ford needed to win? POLL WATCH: The latest horse race numbers, via Mainstreet Research, suggest — surprise, surprise! — DOUG FORD and the PCs would blow their rivals out of the water if an election were held today. Among decided and leaning voters: 38 per cent would pick the PCs, 28 per cent would vote for the Liberals and BONNIE CROMBIE, a paltry 16 per cent would back MARIT STILES and the NDP, while five per cent want the Greens and MIKE SCHREINER and another five per cent want an alternative. Of note: Nine per cent of folks are still up for partisan grabs — they’re undecided.
Speaking of potential elections, it’s the Globe and Mail’s turn to take a stab at the snap vote speculation. Notable tidbit: “Speaking on a panel at a recent forum in Toronto for political professionals, pollster NICK KOUVALIS, a key adviser to Ontario’s PCs, said Mr. Ford ‘may go early’ after announcing a big new initiative in the coming fall economic statement or spring budget. But he also suggested the early-election talk was a PC strategy to keep opposition parties off balance, forcing them to spend money and recruit candidates when they are behind in the polls.”
 Prime Minister Justin Trudeau with Stephen Colbert From the Gazette – For those who watched Stephen Colbert interviewing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau last night – oooh what a terribly week performance. He will need to up his game if he expects the Liberal Party to be returned to office – with what we saw a minority government would be a stretch.
 By Staff
September 24th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The next federal election takes place in
Unless the Confidence vote gets a majority – then an election could start in a matter of days. That confidence vote will take place this afternoon.
The Prime Minister is out of the country attending the United Nations annual meeting.
By Pepper Parr
September 24th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Great to know that Premier Doug Ford is out there working for us.
He just wants to get things done. On reports that the government is eyeing 24/7 construction and “customized” environmental assessments to build Highway 413 he said: “We’ve been working on this environmental assessment since before Moses…There’s hundreds of thousands of people stuck in their cars, backed up to Timbuktu, and you’re worried about a grasshopper jumping across the highway…Let’s build the damn highway.”
 Proposed route for Hwy 413 – Those light blue lines are creeks and waterways – the place that grasshoppers jump out of. Ford didn’t do much better when he commented on the homeless encampments saying: “You know what’s the best way to get people out of the encampments, to get out of homeless?…If you’re healthy, get off your A-S-S and start working like everyone else.”
Street nurse Cathy Crowe took issue with that. “My experience has been that when a politician speaks like this with disregard and disrespect it fuels hate and hate crimes towards the population he is disparaging. The fact so many people clapped at his statement is appalling”.
 By Pepper Parr
September 24th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
What do you do when your council member holds a meeting in which they Mayor takes part to talk about the forth coming budget and they don’t tell you the truth ?
 Salaries and wages along have increased bu just shy of $10 million They fudge the numbers to make the budget increase look lower than it actually is – AND they are talking to you about expenses the city faces when they know that there is more information coming that will increase the amount of money the City has to spend.
In this instance Council is waiting for a report from Staff on what is going to be required to handle future flooding – similar to what took place early in July.
What do you do when the Mayor says the first budget meeting she gave was great – a lot of people were in the room – there were less than 25 people – that did not include the ten or so that included Council members and staff.
 Budget meeting March 2011 – this was one of 11 tables. Citizens will show up for a meeting if you make it interesting enough and promote it effectively. The Mayor said meetings like this had never taken place before – not true.
What do you do with people like that? Return them to office in October of 2026?
The people who pay the taxes have a lot of hard thinking to do about the way the city is governed. There are members of the current City Council who do not know what their jobs are – check out what Councillors Galbraith and Nisan had to say about a major development. Link to that embarrassment is below.
The sky was the limit for these two. The developer who provided the script loved it
The one that got me was when the Mayor said they were not holding Council meetings in the evenings so that families would have more time to be together. The evenings are the only time most people have to delegate at a Council meeting – have you ever heard anything as cheeky. The disrespect for the people who voted for Meed Ward is atrocious – yet they put up with it and take every opportunity there is to have their picture taken with her.
This is what can happen in Burlington when the voters want to see a change. Will we see something like this in 2026?
By Staff
September 24th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
City hall has announced that work to review the composition of Burlington City Council and the city’s ward boundaries is set to begin this fall. The review will assess how well the current council size and structure, and ward boundaries work for our community.
 All residents and Burlington business owners are invited to share their input through a series of upcoming public engagements. Information about the review and opportunities to be involved are available on getinvolvedburlington.ca/boundaryreview.
What is a council composition and ward boundary review?
A council composition and ward boundary review helps plan for the future. The reviews ensure voters are represented equally in the local government decision-making process.
The last ward boundary review for Burlington was done in 2005, when the city’s population was 139,000. Since this time, the city’s population has grown to approximately 186,948 (2021 Census). Over the next 25 years, the city will continue to grow. Approximately 265,000 people are expected to call Burlington home by 2051.
- Council composition reviews look at the size and structure of City Council. They determine if the current number of councillors and the coverage they provide are adequate for our community.
- Ward boundary reviews are typically undertaken every three to four election cycles (12 – 16 years) to look at the boundaries of a city’s wards. Factors, such as population, future growth, geography, community history, community interests, and minority representation, are also considered in the division of wards.
Public engagement and Council decisions
Public engagement and Council decisions will happen in two phases for the review. In phase one, residents will be asked for their input on council composition. Input gathered from the community will be used to help inform a report that will go to City Council for their consideration in December 2024.
In phase two, public engagement will focus on ward boundaries. This phase is anticipated to start early in 2025. More information will be shared on getinvolvedburlington.ca/boundaryreview later this year.
Council composition public engagement opportunities
- Monday, Oct. 7 – 9:30 a.m., presentation at Committee of the Whole, Council Chambers, 426 Brant St.
- Monday, Oct. 7 – 7 to 8:30 p.m., Tansley Woods Community Centre, 1996 Itabashi Way
- Wednesday, Oct. 9 – 7 to 8:30 p.m., Central Arena, 519 Drury Ln
- Thursday, Oct. 10 – 1:30 to 3 p.m., Mountainside Recreation Centre, 2205 Mt. Forest Dr.
- Tuesday, Oct. 15 – 7 to 8:30 p.m., virtual public meeting
- Wednesday, Oct. 23 – 7 to 8:30 p.m., Haber Community Centre, 3040 Tim Dobbie Dr.
Residents and business owners can also share their feedback through the council composition and ward boundary survey, available on getinvolvedburlington.ca/boundaryreview starting Oct.7.
By Lucy Roberts
September 23rd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
 It takes more than this to win a hand – but it it certainly a good start. Intermediate means you know a thing or two about poker, and to know a thing or two about poker is an achievement. It’s a strategy game that will drain the life from you if you find yourself in one that’s intense enough. To outsider non-poker players, poker is one of the most complex games. All the chips, cards, bluffing, and generally not having a clue what to do.
But if you know how to play, you should consider intermediate poker strategies worth trying. Read on to find out more.
Play Position Aggressively
Position in the game of poker is essential. Especially when in a later position, like on the button or in close range, a player has more information than the players that have already acted. An intermediate player should play to the restriction of their position and try to get as much out of it as they can.
For example, if you happen to be in the back seat of the action and notice that most players have folded, now is the time to make your move. You are less likely to be called when you throw in a raise because you can make this play with a broader range. The late position also allows you to see everyone’s reaction before you make a move. It is tactically better to be aggressive when in this position.
Semi-Bluffing
Semi-bluffing is an intermediate tactic. Semi-bluffing is when there’s a settlement that is still untenable and may happen with a bet or raise in the possibility of the hand developing. It’s a calculated gamble because it is not only the outcome this time that depends on luck.
 Is there a bluff taking place? Poker is a game of strategy and tremendous skill. As an illustration, assume you have suited 8 and 9 together with a flop that presents an opportunity for the formation of the straight. This hand doesn’t look the best, but several cards can enhance it and make it stronger. By betting or raising here, it becomes easy to make the opponent sacrifice some of the weaker hands to play along with you to allow you to make the draw.
Semi-bluffing causes a lot of confusion for your opponents.
The Continuation Bet (C-Bet)
A continuation Bet (C-bet) is a tactic in which you make a pot bet on the flop despite the board being static because you have already raised before the flop.
This is a tactic that advanced players like to use, and getting a grasp of it helps intermediate-level players have the upper hand.
Once you have decided to raise the pre-flop, you can presume your opponents are already of the view that your hand is probably strong. So once there is a C-bet on the turn, it makes sense for the opponent who called the bet at the flop to think that the board has helped the player to improve the hand, even though this was not the case. Naturally, it becomes very difficult for the opponents, especially when they don’t connect on the flop.
It seems complicated, but you’re an intermediate, now.
Hand Reading and Player Profiling
 What is behind those cards – and what is behind those eyes ? Hand reading and player profiling belong more to the advanced stages of play and involve estimating the range that your opponents hold based on their visible actions in the same throne as their actions before that.
If you are profiling a player, pay attention to the statistics regarding the frequency of bets raised or folds made in a particular situation. Are they loose or tight? Do they bluff a lot, or are they more of a straightforward player? This kind of consideration will let you tell the strength of your opponent’s hand, whether strong or weak.
Hand reading involves a lot of extra details, and the player has to be very keen on the betting patterns and the board.
Playing Poker at Canadian Online Casinos
Playing poker at online casinos is so much fun – you’ll find so many live poker games at online casinos in Canada. There are different types of poker available in Canadian online casinos, including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and 7-Card Stud, so every player will find at least one they like. These casinos are licensed to operate, which means there’s decent accountability in terms of security and fair play, ideal for players who enjoy poker.
Canadian online casinos that include poker in their offerings also play tournaments with several buy-ins ranging from the low-end to the upper-high-model tournaments.
Do you think you’re ready to be an intermediate poker player? There’s so much strategy involved, whether you’re a good player or not. The trick is what strategy to use and when to apply it. Fear not, that’s something you’ll learn as you go along and get used to the different playing styles. Most of the time, it depends on who you’re playing against and how good they are. Sometimes, you don’t need to use intermediate tactics.
 By Staff
September 23, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Residents Action Group (BRAG) has begun to drill down into the budget numbers that have been made public. While the analysis is yet to be completed – a few pieces of information stand out.
The highlighted salary and benefits line shown on page 9 of the summary budget as something that the city, in fairness to taxpayers, should expand on. We can see that salaries and benefits will increase 6.6%.
Why is there a 6.6% increase for Salaries, wages and Benefits? Statistics Canada has the CPI (Consumer Price Index) increasing 2.5% in July 2024 (year over year) with all indicators pointing towards further cooling of inflation in 2025.
What we can’t see is how much of this budget increase is for raises to current employees and how much of this budget increase is for new hires.
With low assessment and population growth, it’s difficult to understand why the city is hiring; residents are left with the assumption that salaries and benefits for existing employees are increasing by 6.6%.
Looking back to the 2023 budget, page 468 shows a 12.3% increase to the “Human Resources” expenditure line.
Looking back to the 2024 budget, page 728 shows a 10% increase to the “Human Resources” expenditure line.
“These increases are simply jaw dropping “said BRAG President Eric Stern.
Much more to come on this file.
 By Pepper Parr
September 23rd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The weather worked; the crowds were good – actually very good. There were more than 130 tents set up either side of Appleby Line from Fairview all the way down to New Street.
 Teen Tour Band getting ready to march south the New Street. Then they marched back to Fairview. The Teen Tour Marching Band with 130 of its members turning out with Army cadets clearing the roadway.
The St. John Ambulance people has a team on site – nothing of any concern at that level.
We did see Councillor Sharman marching along behind the Teen Tour band.
People were out having fun. Lots of food – maybe half a dozen food trucks serving the public. A lot of police officers walking about, all kinds of police cars at the intersections.
Noticed a lot of Fathers pushing the strollers.
The two main line political parties had tents staffed with people handing out literature.
 Connor Fraser chatting up a woman explaining that he wants to represent Burlington in the next federal election.  Emily Brown who also wants to represent Burlington in the House of Commons. Two of the three people seeking the provincial nomination were out chatting people up.
There were a couple of bands – the open guitar cases set out in front had a disappointing amount of paper money in them
Councillor Sharman has to be given credit for building this event from what was – how do we put this – something that had some promise.
It has become something people look forward to – a nice way to spend time bumping into people you haven’t see for some time.
Margot Shuttle worth pulled me into a dance with her; Emily Brown did not pull me into a dance with her.
Alan Harrington mentioned that he had just returned from a trip to Iceland – and mentioned that he had taken his second flight out of the Warplane Museum – this time in a gypsy moth.
 A Burlington Teen Tour Band member hydrating after the march while a young boy sits on a piece of public art.  The weather was fine and everyone seemed to have a place to go. Sharman has managed to build an event – something none of the others have yet managed to. Sharman give his team of volunteers all the credit.
One of the questions that crops up for the Gazette is – how is this event funded. I know the city puts some money into it – I couldn’t help but get the sense that there was quite a bit of revenue from the retailers who had tents set up. The Food and beverage people did well.
 The crowds were great. More than 30 tents lined the street where you could buy pop corn, a hot dog, a Canada sweater and get advice from a number of health services who had tents. And so did the community – kudos to Paul Sharman and his volunteers for holding the event
By Pepper Parr
September 22, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
A 22-year veteran of the Canadian Forces with first hand experience relayed to security clearances is one of the people who has signed the change.org petition asking that it be made mandatory people with access to sensitive information are trustworthy and pose no risk to our national security.
 Petitioner said he/she finds it “astounding that Pierre Poilievre, an influential figure in our nation, has not yet completed this crucial obtaining a security clearance. The writer said he/she finds it “astounding that Pierre Poilievre, an influential figure in our nation, has not yet completed this crucial step.”
“As citizens, our safety is dependent on the proper screening of those in positions of power. A security clearance checks a person’s background, verifying their criminal record, personal history, and moral character. It is a matter of trust, not only for our government but for our citizens. Therefore, we find it necessary that Pierre Poilievre be subjected to the same stringent standard as the rest of us.
“No one is beyond reproach and everyone should be held to the same level of accountability – especially persons in positions that directly affect the security of our nation. We must maintain the integrity of our security system and ensure that all people in positions of power are thoroughly vetted.
“Let’ stand together for a transparent and fair process, and demand Pierre Poilievre to undergo a security clearance. It is not just about him, it is about the safety and security of us all – our nation. “
Our first question to the petition writer is: Who did you ask if Poilievre if has a security clearance ? And if you asked – did they give you a reason?
We will get back to you on this one
Change.org is a web site where petitions are placed and people are invited to do the click click thing and join those who already signed. So far there are 2650 signatures on this petition – they are aiming for 5000.
It’s a good question: Has Pierre Poilievre ensured that he has been cleared to see sensitive documents ?
We will wait until we have an answer from Poilievre communications people before passing along a link on this one.
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