 By Jacob Robinson
July 23rd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The transformation from static to dynamic learning materials in education is not just about integrating technology—it’s about revolutionizing how we engage, understand, and retain information.
Gone are the days when learners passively consumed information from textbooks. Today, interactive education is at the forefront, changing how educators teach and students learn.
The Shift to Interactive Learning
 Working from a computer instead a blackboard opens up a world to students where they can interact in a way that isn’t possible in a classroom The traditional educational model, which often relies on textbooks and teacher-driven lectures, has been effective to a certain extent but does not always engage every student.
This is especially true in a world where digital natives are increasingly accustomed to interactive and multimedia content. The transition to interactive learning is designed to close this gap by transforming students from passive recipients of information to active, engaged participants in their own learning processes.
This shift involves integrating a variety of multimedia elements that cater to different learning preferences and speeds, which is particularly important in diverse educational environments. Tools such as videos, interactive simulations, and gamified learning experiences play pivotal roles. Videos can illustrate complex concepts in a visually digestible manner, simulations offer hands-on experience in a virtual format, and gamification introduces elements of play that can significantly increase engagement and motivation.
For instance, incorporating simulations in science classes allows students to conduct experiments in a virtual lab setting, enabling them to explore scenarios that would be impossible or impractical in a real-world setting.
Utilizing Technology to Enhance Learning
In today’s educational landscape, technology is not just an enhancer but a fundamental component of how learning is imparted. Interactive eBooks, educational apps, and Learning Management Systems (LMS) are just the beginning. These platforms transform traditional text into interactive experiences with clickable links, embedded assessment tools, and multimedia content that make learning dynamic and more accessible.
 A book with an unlimited number of pages that are updated in nano-seconds. One highly effective approach is the creation of a blended learning environment, where digital and traditional teaching methods intersect. This model allows educators to leverage the best of both worlds—combining the personal touch of face-to-face teaching with the customization and flexibility of digital media. For example, a teacher might explain a concept in class while directing students to an online platform where they can explore additional multimedia content and complete interactive exercises that reinforce the lesson.
Blended learning environments are particularly adept at catering to various learning styles—visual learners can benefit from video content, auditory learners can benefit from recorded lectures and discussions, and kinesthetic learners can engage with interactive elements that make learning a more tactile experience.
This diversity in content delivery not only helps in catering to the individual needs of students but also prepares them for a world where digital literacy is paramount.
Tools That Make a Difference
Several tools have been instrumental in transforming static documents into dynamic learning resources.
For instance, Smallpdf’s PDF-to-Word converter allows educators to take static resources like PDFs and convert them into editable Word documents. This capability is crucial when updating or customizing learning materials to include interactive elements like hyperlinks, videos, or animated explanations that engage students more deeply.
Another tool transforming learning is virtual reality (VR), which can transport students to different times and places, enhancing their understanding of complex subjects through immersive experiences.
Similarly, augmented reality (AR) can bring diagrams in textbooks to life, providing a three-dimensional understanding of complex structures like the human body or solar systems.
The Role of Gamification
Gamification transforms traditional education by integrating game design elements that foster motivation, engagement, and a strong sense of community among learners.
 A leader-board graphic – a stock item provided by Adobe – a tool that engages people. Particularly effective in virtual classrooms, gamification strategies combat the challenge of online learner disengagement by making learning interactive and rewarding. Points systems, leaderboards, and achievement badges make education enjoyable and tap into learners’ competitive spirits, encouraging a healthy rivalry and continuous engagement.
For instance, apps like Duolingo harness the power of gamification by setting daily goals and rewarding learners with points and badges for achieving streaks. This approach keeps the learning process exciting and motivates learners to return regularly, thereby enhancing language acquisition and retention.
Moreover, gamification can be tailored to individual learning paths, providing personalized challenges that meet learners at their level of proficiency and push them to expand their boundaries. Such adaptive learning experiences are crucial in maintaining student interest and ensuring that each learner feels both supported and challenged.
Creating Content That Resonates
To effectively engage modern learners, educational content must resonate on multiple levels. Today’s learners seek materials that are interactive and dynamic, succinct, visually engaging, and directly relevant to their lives and future careers. To create content that truly resonates, educators need to adopt a design-thinking approach, prioritizing the user experience in every aspect of material creation.
Incorporating storytelling into educational content is one method that significantly increases engagement and relatability. Stories can transform abstract concepts into concrete learning experiences that are memorable and impactful.
Of course, integrating real-world challenges through project-based learning makes learning more relevant and enhances skill application and retention. This approach encourages learners to apply their knowledge to solve practical problems, preparing them for real-life challenges.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite the clear advantages of interactive and dynamic learning environments, several challenges can impede implementation. Access to reliable technology remains a significant barrier, particularly in under-resourced areas where learners may not have regular internet access or the latest digital devices.
Additionally, there exists a considerable gap in digital literacy among educators, which can hinder the adoption of new technologies and methodologies in the classroom.
To overcome these obstacles, targeted professional development is essential. Educators must receive ongoing training and support to build confidence in using advanced digital tools and incorporating innovative teaching strategies.
Only through concerted efforts to address these challenges can the promise of interactive education be fully realized.
 Gamification, more than a word – it’s a process. Transforming static learning materials into dynamic, interactive educational experiences is essential for keeping pace with global educational trends and meeting the needs of today’s learners. By embracing technology, incorporating gamification, and designing content that resonates with students, educators can create more engaging, effective, and inclusive learning environments.
This transformative journey is about using new tools and rethinking how education is delivered to foster more profound and lasting learning outcomes. As we continue to navigate this path, we should always focus on enhancing educational experiences to prepare learners for a rapidly changing world.
 By Pepper Parr
July 23rd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The City has decided on which of the three design that were created they want to go forward with.
There are some fervently opposed to the decision to spend public money on the decision to redesign Civic Square and create better entrances to City Hall.
Work will begin in September of 2025 and be completed in the late summer of 2026 – months before the municipal election. Council has a lot riding on what the Civic Square is going to look like.
There will be public art in the space; the budget is $200,000. This includes Phase 1 -Public Art Plan and Phase 2 – Artwork Fabrication and Installation. The budget includes all components related to the artwork design, engineering, fabrication and installation. Ten per cent of the budget will go to the Public Art Maintenance Reserve. The funding for the public art is from a prior Community Benefits Charge contribution.
LeuWebb has been chosen as the people who will provide the creative collaboration between advocates, artists, architects, and educators.
Christine Leu and Alan Webb work together exercising their disciplines and talents to design, curate, and produce art in the public realm that beautifies and enriches the collective human experience.
Since 2011, LeuWebb Projects has created a multitude of site-specific artworks across the globe, ranging from ephemeral, technology-driven installations to robust and permanent city fixtures. With each venture, the studio mines its artistic and architectural expertise to unearth how each site’s qualities can serve as metaphors for storytelling and critical discourse.
Two of the LeuWebb projects are show below. Both are very large taking up a lot of space; something that there isn’t very much of on the City Civic Square.
 Robert McLaughlin Gallery in Oshawa. The space beneath the Gardner expressway was cleaned up and put to public use. LeuWebb did the following community space for the Robert McLaughlin Gallery in Oshawa.
Both are large space projects – Civic Square won’t have much public space to use.
 By Staff
July 23rd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
 Conservation Halton created a new use for some of their property – the put in aDisk Golf course and are now operating a league.
If you don’t know what Disk Golf is – check out the link HERE.
Kelso League ’24
Wednesday evenings
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- The first league night is July 24, 2024
- Format:
- Typically mixed doubles
- Experienced & Amateur players will be mixed
- 6:30 pm tee off (for summer play)
- Meet at the Trailhead Pro Shop
- Hours will adjust with the season to accommodate daylight
- Some weeks will target Glow with a later than usual tee off
- Do I need to book?
- The league does not require special reservation or booking beyond a gate fee
- We strongly recommend all regular league players consider a Conservation Halton Parks Membership to save on gate fees. A Vehicle Pass will provide you with access to eight Conservation Halton Parks for one year from the date of purchase and will allow you to bring anyone with you in the same vehicle!
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 Details at each of the nine starting points for each hole. All are welcome
- The league is for all ages, abilities & levels of experience
- Those who have signed up and received a League Tag will be eligible for the weekly players pools
- You are encouraged to bring friends and family out to try the league
- The first rule of Kelso League is: tell people about Kelso League. The second rule of Kelso League is: TELL people about Kelso League!
- Player Pool
- Player Pool will be managed on site with our League Organizers
- Pay outs will be available for:
- Weekly leader board
- CTB
- Ace Pot
- Player Pool will collect proceeds for the Conservation Halton Foundation, contributing to the ongoing development of projects like Kelso’s Disc Golf Course and other great ways to access Conservation Halton Parks.
- League Mulligans
- Mulligans will be available for purchase by way of donation to the Conservation Halton Foundation
- Mulligans will be available for $4.00 each, or seven for $20
- A mulligan can be played on any league night, on any hole, by any player
- Mulligans are limited to one per player per round per league night
- With Doubles as the standard league format, only the player who plays their mulligan is permitted to throw another shot
- To play a mulligan, the player in question must tell their card they are playing a mulligan and is then responsible for turning in their mulligan card to the League Coordinator at the end of the round
- If a mulligan card is not turned in, one stroke will be added to the player or pairs final score.
 A nine hold Disk Golf course Important Reminders
League Fees
- Premium League Fees – $44.99 (plus HST and gate fees for non-members)
- Basic League Fees – $22 (plus HST and gate fees for non-members)
Trail Head Pro Shop
Need something for league? Want to help get yourself or friend kitted out as you get into the game? The Trail Head Pro Shop at Kelso has everything you need. We carry bags, discs, towels, apparel, course souvenirs and more! Better yet, all league players are entitled to 15% off at all times! Simply show your league tag / ID at check out!
Tech Disc’s at Kelso
Want to learn more about your game? Did you know that Kelso has Tech Discs available for rent?
As a league player you will receive one free rental. Tech Discs can help you discover the nuances about your throw and how to work towards improving your game!
Curious to know more? Check out Tech Disc here!
Upcoming Tournaments
Kelso is proud to be hosting the second stage of the Chain Link Conservation Series. The CCS made its first stop this year at Albion and will be coming to Kelso on September 21 and 22, 2024. Other fun events in the days leading up to the tournament will be offered! This will be a PDGA sanctioned C-Tier event. More information will be available in the days ahead and on The Disc Golf Scene. Please save the date and consider inviting friends and family to watch the event.
By Diane Furlong
July 22nd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The buying and selling of stocks, shares and bonds between financial traders has been a fundamental facet of our societies for centuries, with the concept of financial exchanges dating back to the Venetian golden age of the late Middle Ages. As history has progressed, stock exchanges have played an increasingly vital role in global mechanics, operating as the backbone of our global economy. However, despite the obvious importance of stocks, many of us know very little about what they are, how they work, and their real money value. Let’s take a more comprehensive look at these powerful economic entities.
What Are Stocks?
 A share certificate in the Ford Motor Company which is a public corporation whose shares are traded on the NYSE. Simply put, stocks represent the ownership of a fraction of a company. Otherwise known as shares or equity, the purchase of a stock provides the buyer a piece of that company. This allows the owner of the stock to claim a portion of any assets or earnings resulting from the company’s success. For the company, issuing stocks helps to raise capital for their operations allowing them to grow. This symbiotic relationship between company and stockholder is fundamental to our global economic model. Stocks can be divided into two distinct types, common and preferred. Common stocks are the most widely held stocks, providing the owner a vote in shareholder meetings as well as a portion of company dividends. Contrastingly, preferred stocks provide the owner a greater share of the dividends but without any voting rights. The procurement of stocks is seen by many as an opportunity for financial gain, hoping to sell their stocks for a higher price over time while taking in the dividends in the meantime.
What Affects Stock Value?
Firstly, there are a number of different ways in which stocks can be valued. A stock can be valued based on the value of the company using its financial accounts – this is referred to as its book value. However, when purchasing stock many brokers use the market value which is driven by supply and demand and is the actual price of the stock on the market. Alternatively, some may use the intrinsic value which is seen as the true value of the stock based upon detailed financial analysis. Depending on the procurement in play, brokers may take all three valuations into account.
 The floor of the New York Stock exchange where the public value of a company is determined. Traders do the actual trading between the different brokerages. You as an investor work with your broker. These values are determined by a number of different factors. The economic performance of the company is a key factor in determining the value of its stocks. High sales, new product launches or increased brand exposure can lead to improved financial health of a company which in turn improves its market value. External factors can also significantly affect stock value. Global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, international conflicts and natural disasters all have an effect on the markets which can results in stocks values to rise or fall. Periods of recession often lead to stock prices to fall while periods of economic recovery can see prices rise again.
Calculating the Real Money Value
Considering this, how do investors determine the real money value of different stocks? By using certain financial ratios, they are able to make informed decisions on where and when to put their money on the table. The price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio, compares the company’s current share price to its earnings per share (EPS). A high P/E ratio indicates that investors expect a high growth potential from the stock in the future even if current earnings are low. The price-to-book ratio (P/B) compares a company’s market value to its book value and is a conservative approach often used in mature industries with a reduced growth potential. This ratio essentially assesses the market value of the company based on its actual worth, making it a useful method for understanding whether a company is under or overvalued. An alternative way of assessing the value of a stock is its dividend yield. While the other two ratios are ideal for assessing potential profits from sales of stocks, understanding how much in dividends you will receive for the price of the stock is a great tool if you want to keep hold of stocks for regular payments. When looking at dividend yields, ensuring the long-term sustainability of their output is key.
Buying and Selling Stocks
Once a stock has been valued using the above methods, investors must then purchase these stocks at centralized locations known as stock exchanges. Stock exchanges such as the NASDAQ and S&P 500 provide investors with a platform to buy and sell stocks in some of the largest companies across all sectors including healthcare, entertainment and technology. While anyone can buy stocks, they must first open a brokerage account in order to access the various stock exchanges. Once the account is set up, funds can be added to the account and orders on stocks can be placed.
Remember the Risk
 Every investor needs to understand their own risk tolerance. How much risk are you prepared to take? It is a very personal number you need to think about. It is important to understand that buying stocks is not a guaranteed money maker and so being aware of the risks involved is vital. Buying stocks can be likened to placing bets on online casinos, with the best real money online casinos in Canada available at Onlinecasino.ca. Stocks with a high probability of success will often provide a low return, while volatile stocks with a low probability of success could provide huge profits – although the chance of losses is also higher. Ultimately, purchasing stocks is a gamble, so significant research should be done to ensure that the right stocks are bought at the right price. Additionally, there is also a risk of a total market collapse such as that seen during the 2008 financial disaster. This effects the value of all stocks and can lead to severe losses from investments.
Understanding stocks is a great way to both increase your financial situation and to better understand the cogs that the run the world that we live in. A combination of knowledge, research and strategy is essential for success in the stock exchange however the details of this article are only the tip of the iceberg. It is vital to be aware of the complexities of our economic system and remember where there is reward, there is risk.
 By Staff
July 22nd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
A reader asked just how many devices does the Region have to measure the rainfall and how does the data collection come together.
 Device that captures water flow rates of Shoreacres Creek as it flows under Spruce Ave. Conservation Halton (CH) has access to forty-four rain gauges, twenty-three streamflow gauges, three climate stations, as well as our four major flood control dams. Each of these stations has a datalogger that senses a variable (water level, precipitation, wind speed, etc.) that then sends the data to our data acquisition and storage platform through a cell modem, or other telemetry (broadband, fibre-optic networks..
The system polls these stations every 15 minutes; they also have access to all the stations in real-time through their system (on-demand access).
All the data is visible for our Flood Forecasting and Operations (FF&O) staff at any time.
There are three (3) Flood Duty Officers, who are on rotation 24/7 (Tuesday to Tuesday).
The photograph is of the Shoreacres Creek as it flows under Spruce Ave.
In 2014 there was one, just one rainfall metering devices and the telemetry for that one wasn’t properly hooked up. Conservation Halton took the required remedial action.
 There are a total of 13 creeks that flow through the city.
 By Ray Rivers
July 22, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Ontario has just lived through another major weather event – the climatic warming of the Caribbean produced Beryl – the earliest category 5 hurricane in Atlantic history. And the remnants visited southern Ontario this week torrentially dumping near record breaking rainfall, reminiscent of the flood of a decade earlier. It was a memo to our governments that we need to do more to mitigate global warming and climate change.
But these days Mr. Ford has bigger fish he wants to fry. So he’s busy defending the sweetheart deal he cooked up with that Spa outfit, giving away public space at Ontario place. And then there is the smoke and mirrors he is generating in order to justify shuttering Ontario’s Science Centre and move it.
 Premier is said to be a teetotaller – but he wants to ensure that you can pick up a 2-4 at a gas station. But what is really occupying Mr. Ford’s attention these days is killing the LCBO. He’s doing that by a thousand cuts. He is accelerating the shift of alcohol sales to the private outlets such that the mighty LCBO, once the largest purchaser of alcoholic products in the world, until it will eventually be seen as unprofitable. It is kind of bizarre that someone who claims to be a tea totaler would be so interested in making booze even more readily available for more residents of this province.
And that is why the employees went on strike. It was about keeping their jobs but also about preserving the organization they work for. And they were successful in stopping the bleeding, at least for the three year term of their contract. And by that time Doug Ford will be history, they hope.
Though perhaps Mr. Ford is right. Maybe it’s time to privatize all alcohol sales, get rid of the LCBO. After all we privatized cannabis sales from the get go and no animals were injured in the process. But there will be some potential downsides. First, greater access to alcohol carries the danger of greater underage drinking and drunk driving. Second, the provincial treasury would likely have to forego the $2 billion or so it receives annually from the LCBO;
Third, increased crime. A recent study south of the border has linked increased violent crime with the expansion of liquor stores. Forth, the role the LCBO plays in the promotion and protection of local wines and liquors is at risk. And fifth, the availability of the wide variety and diversity of products will be gone because smaller retailers will need to focus on a few of the most popular brands.
 Handling the empty beer, wine and spirits containers could turn out to be more than small retailers want to take on. This expansion is already meeting resistance by the very people it is intended to benefit. Many potential mom and pop, convenience, store vendors are refusing to be licensed to sell plunk. After all, the privilege of selling booze comes with a price tag, There is the process of licensing; the underage policing and added security to prevent theft; the additional paperwork; the additional storage and showcasing space; and the requirement to accept and dispatch used liqueur receptacles.
It is hard to see this liquor expansion as anything but a solution looking for a problem. The original promises of getting booze into corner stores dates back to a time well before the LCBO re-invented itself into the modern retailer it is today. The best thing Ford could do about the LCBO is give it a less uninspiring name and leave well enough alone.
After all, he promised to be the premier for all the people, not premier for all the booze.
 Ray Rivers, a Gazette Contributing Editor, writes regularly applying his more than 25 years as a federal bureaucrat to his thinking. Rivers was once a candidate for provincial office in Burlington. He was the founder of the Burlington citizen committee on sustainability at a time when climate warming was a hotly debated subject. Ray has a post graduate degree in economics that he earned at the University of Ottawa. Tweet @rayzrivers
Background links:
Hurricane Beryl – Climate Change Insurance – Refusing to Handle Booze – Booze and Crime –
 By Staff
July 22nd, 2024
BURLINGTON, 0N
If you are one of those people who likes to plan way way ahead and like to dance to the sounds of a big band sound – this might interest you.
The Heritage Warplane Museum announced their Victory Dinner & Dance November 16, 2024
 Come join the merriment and frivolity at the annual Swing Out to Victory Dinner & Dance as the Toronto All-Star Big Band performs nostalgic tunes from the 1940s. Feel the spirit of that era as you dance among the vintage aircraft of the Canadian Warplane Heritage. Dressing in vintage fashions and Allied Forces uniforms of the 1940s is encouraged but not necessary.
You can attend as a Dance only guest or make it a Dinner and Dance – ticket $85 each or table of eight $680. Dance only ticket $40.
Tickets
By Pepper Parr
July 22, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Hamilton Residents got an opportunity to stroll along Locke Styreet on the weekend when the local BIA took advantage of the more seasonal weather of the last few days held a Sundays Unlocked event – a pedestrian-only day of shopping, food and entertainment.
Most of the restaurants on Locke have opened patios—including Donut Monster, Bardo, Peruviano, Delirious Burger, The Squire, West Town, Democracy, Burnt Tongue, Amo Gelato, Starbucks, Planted, Noir and Diced Ice.
 Live Music is provided by John and Paul, Johnny and Shari, Beyond the Woodpile, the Weight and Bliss. There are balloons, Chalk Painting and caricatures for the kids as well.
There are many who would like to see events like that happen in Burlington; some feel that Brant Street should be a pedestrian only area from Lakeshore to Caroline.
Is there any traction for an idea like that?
 By Julieta Belen Correa
July 22nd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Gigadat is a payment solutions company that allows global e-merchants and service providers to offer Canadian customers fast, secure, and reliable payments. The pay-in and pay-out solutions allow businesses to offer products and services to those in Canada that they may not have been able to because of limited payment solutions from some banks in Canada.
 Transact safely with encrypted software. This payment platform offers peace of mind to Canadian customers, with round-the-clock service, working with trusted and established banking networks for safe deposits and transfers. Now, onto where you can use Gigadat in Canada.
 The Gigadat reach is world wide One of the best industries to see how Gigadat works well is with iGaming, with the best Gigadat casino in Canada allowing players to transact safely as software encryption is used by the company to enhance the security of any transaction made through the system. Customer expectations are changing, with flexibility and security at the forefront. Gigadat ensures online gaming sites fall within local regulations, adhere to AML, and are PCI compliant, keeping users safe throughout any transaction. The online gambling industry in Canada brought in $2.3 billion in 2023, with a projected annual growth rate of 6% between 2024-2029. This increase in popularity and revenue will see Gigadat services used more often for iGaming in Canada.
E-commerce stores and users are on the rise in Canada. As of 2022, there were more than 27 million eCommerce users in Canada, according to the International Trade Administration. Of those, 55% preferred to make online purchases on their mobile devices. That’s where Gigadat comes in. The payment service provider offers e-commerce businesses safe and trustworthy ways to transact with its increasing range of solutions for apps and websites. Online shoppers in Canada are in safe hands with Gigadat, whether it’s for goods or services.
 Quick checkout. Online trading in Canada is rapidly increasing in popularity. As more people are on the lookout for investment opportunities to grow their financial portfolios, online platforms need to provide safe ways to transact quickly and without hassle. E-merchants need to offer quick checkout, something that is an absolute must when working with industries like crypto gambling and online trading. Users have come to expect instant withdrawals and online platforms and apps need to keep up with this growing demand.
Whether it’s trading, gambling, or online shopping, the competition out there for online sites is growing and if e-merchants don’t keep up with payment solution flexibility, customers will inevitably vote with their feet. This is particularly true in Canada, where users are looking for hassle-free payment options, whether they’re purchasing locally or internationally. While remaining within local regulations is a top priority, it’s vital for users to have a trusted payment method that won’t inhibit them.
 Be aware of and understand your options. Gigadat also comes in handy for businesses looking for analytics on their transactions, with the payment platform offering a variety of reports to ensure that online businesses can see exactly what users need on their platform and at which stage in the purchasing funnel. This can help e-merchants market their businesses successfully.
To answer the question, where can you use Gigadat in Canada? The answer is with any online platform that uses this increasingly popular payment solution service. Many businesses are choosing to partner with Gigadat, as the need for safe and secure transactions is on the rise globally.
By Staff
July 22nd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
There appear to be slightly different messages out on just what is available to residents who had their homes flooded.
 Ward 4 Councillor Shawna Stolte said in her note to her residents that:
Halton Region has announced a $1,000 Ex Gratia Grant for Public Sewer Backup, which can help eligible residents to offset the cost of an insurance deductible or help with flooding-related costs that are not otherwise covered under their home insurance policy.
The City of Burlington has also announced an Ex Gratia Grant, which will provide $1,000 to residents with confirmed residential flooding that are not eligible for the Halton Region Ex Gratia Grant for Public Sewer Backup.
To be assessed for eligibility for the applicable grant, residents must report home flooding to Halton Region at 311. If this has not already been done, it must be done immediately.
Councillor Lisa Kearns who provided a lengthy but very detailed list of what was available in terms of support and services didn’t mention that the City Ex Gratia Grant might not be available
We have had very little luck in getting responses to our requests for clarification from the City Communications people. We will ask around and see what we can learn.
By Deny Branly
July, 20th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Cricket to many in North America is the colonial game that got away, with most countries that compete at the sharp end of the worldwide game, having their roots ingrained in British Commonwealth history.
The likes of India, Australia, South Africa and of course England, continue to dominate the sport, that is continually evolving as a worldwide product and that has become the 2nd most watched sport on the planet after football.
However, whilst the West Indies often flew the flag for the Americas with aplomb in a cricketing context, Canada and the United States have always been two gaping holes in the world cricket map.
 Everything has been put into the swing. That is until now, with the ICC T20 World Cup set to get underway, with America and the West Indies all hosting games, in one of the flagship events of the global cricketing and wider sporting calendar.
Breaking new ground and bringing the game to new fans is the aim here for the ICC, as they look to encourage as many new people as possible to the game and with a tournament expansion now seeing 20 different countries taking part, it promises to be a real international spectacle over the next few weeks.
Fittingly, the first game of the tournament sees hosts United States, take on neighbours Canada, in what should be an enthralling contest, that organisers are hoping will capture the hearts and minds of fans across the continent.
Does Canada have a chance?
With such a congested sporting space in Canada, it is perhaps a little difficult to see how a seasonal sport such as cricket could fit in.
Football, baseball, basketball and ice-hockey always pick up the big numbers in terms of participation, with soccer, tennis and golf also very much in the mix too.
That said, the Canadia Cricket Association is working hard to grow the game all across Canada and the influx of players from different heritages is also enabling the Canadian men’s national team to have a much more polished look about it.
 The precision – waiting for the ball to get to the bat is thrilling to watch. Unlike the USA, Canada have competed in the 50-over ICC World Cup before, on four previous occasions, never managing to progress beyond the group stages but this is their T20 World Cup debut.
Big cricketing tournaments always garner plenty of attention with bookmakers and sports betting fans alike and whilst Canada aren’t seen as having any chance of winning the competition, there are still plenty of betting markets to be accessed.
The 2024 ICC World Cup begins on June 2nd 2024 and runs for 4 action-packed weeks, giving cricket punters plenty of chances to get involved and players can check out the best T20 World Cup odds and more at top sportsbooks listed at bettingtop10.ca.
Who will be 2024 ICC T20 World Cup Champions?
In recent times, England have dominated the shorter formats of world cricket and whilst they haven’t been in great form over the past 12 months, they remain the defending champions and they look well placed to have a good go once again here.
 There may be a lot that North Americans have to learn about the sport – but high fives are known by everyone. Australia bagged the ICC ODI World Cup in late 2023 and they look to have plenty of confidence in their squad as a result and they should relish the conditions in the USA and the West Indies.
Two sides that won’t love the conditions are India and Pakistan but both teams are incredibly dangerous on their day, possessing some of the best match winners in the world and neither can be discarded.
Elsewhere, the likes of South Africa, West Indies and New Zealand will all fancy their chances of going all the way and becoming the world T20 champions in 2024.
By Staff
July 21st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The City is helping flooded homeowners by lifting the timed parking restrictions for parking on residential streets until Aug. 31, 2024 across the city. This means you can park overnight or for longer than five hours on your street. You do no need to apply for a parking exemption during this time. Signed restrictions on residential streets still apply.
 Please follow all other parking regulations for safety and fire routes. Parking offences, not related to time will still be enforced and you could receive a ticket or be towed if parked illegally.
Need enforcement? Email city@burlington.ca during business hours or call Halton Regional Police Non-Emergency Communications at 905-825-4777 on evenings and weekends. Ask for parking enforcement and a dispatcher will send a Parking Officer to the location.
Parking exemptions do not apply in the downtown area, the Waterfront, Beachway Park or Lowville Park. Please check for reservation and paid parking times in these areas. Make sure you park in a legal, designated parking spot and obey all parking rules and bylaws. Otherwise, you will be ticketed or towed.
 By Pepper Parr
July 20th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
During the Special Council meeting last week Staff released reports on what had been done after the 2014 flood.
 The yellow highlighting was put there by the city. They wanted the public to know that they had done what they thought was necessary. Some of the funds came from the federal and provincial governments, who in turn got the funds from taxpayers – same pockets.
Eric Stern, a Burlington resident who has been banging away at the rate at which tax increases are piled one on top of the taxes levied by the Regional government and the school boards.
 Mayor Meed Ward chose to use the % Impact number rather than the actual tax increase when she spoke of the budget. There was never a definition given on just what an impact was.  Eric Stern Many in his group look for a zero tax increase, which is just not possible. Asking for a tax increase equal to inflation plus 1 percent for a couple of years might be what is needed. Whatever the Mayor produces in the way of a budget – it is now her responsibility to produce a budget – she is going to have to pay heed to this small group that have done their homework – expect to see something in the way of a semi-formal group going public and challenging the Mayor and her Council members.
Ward 4 Councillor Shawna Stolte floated an idea – holding a referendum asking the public what they would like to see in the way of spending. The response in the Gazette comments section was brutal.
During the Special Council meeting on Thursday, City Staff put out a report that the Mayor couldn’t stop talking about. The city did spend a lot of money after the 2014 flood. Creek channels were cleaned up, widened and made to be able to handle more in the way of rainwater.
The task of keeping those creek beds clean wasn’t part of the mix.
There was a time when Burlington’s Jack Dennison served as Councillor for ward 4; he held that job for two decades I think. He knew every nook and cranny of the city – I wonder what Jack would have said about spending less on the big things and doing more of the common sense stuff.
By Mike Jones
July 18th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Whether your teeth have minor chips, cracks or discolorations, veneers are an effective solution for hiding these flaws and discolorations. With their natural aesthetic, you’ll be able to smile confidently knowing no one will notice.
Tooth veneers also resist staining better than regular tooth enamel, helping you keep your smile whiter for longer.
- Can fix small imperfections
 Before and after – dental veneers are a choice that works for many people. Veneers can help conceal small chips, cracks or gaps in your teeth so you can achieve a smile free from imperfections. They may also help correct mildly crooked or overcrowded smiles without needing orthodontic treatment.
Before applying veneers, we will remove about 0.5 millimeter of enamel from your tooth’s surface in order to roughen and help the veneers adhere better. Multiple veneers may then be used to close spaces between teeth, lengthen worn down ones, reshape irregularly-shaped ones or add uniform coloration in aging teeth. Keep іn mind that veneers cost can vary depending оn factors like the number оf veneers needed and the specific materials used.
Porcelain veneers cannot replace large broken teeth or prevent decay in underlying tooth structure; as they cover only the front surface of your tooth, it is still essential to practice good oral hygiene habits such as regular brushing and flossing.
- Gives a natural appearance
Veneers are designed to perfectly replicate the color and appearance of natural tooth enamel, making them look quite convincing. Furthermore, veneers are extremely durable and stain-resistant – although their effects won’t be quite as obvious than that of your natural enamel.
Deliberately constructed veneers can quickly address various cosmetic flaws at once, such as stains, chips and cracks, misalignment issues and even severe discoloration that does not respond to conventional teeth whitening methods.
 The kind of smile many people with minor dental problems wish they could have. Veneers have proven to be highly effective and can last up to 10 years with proper care. Maintaining veneers is easy; just brush twice daily, floss, use mouthwash and schedule regular dental visits. In addition, try not to chew on hard objects like ice as this may damage both natural teeth and veneers.
- Minimally invasive procedure
When our dentist applies veneers to your teeth, he or she will only need to take minimal measures to achieve a natural-looking smile with minimum discomfort or pain involved.
Our dentists use impressions to design veneers that replicate the color and contouring of natural teeth. If cared for properly, a veneer could last 10-12 years before needing replacing or repairs.
Porcelain veneers can help correct minor cosmetic concerns like discoloration, chipped teeth and cracks in your smile. Unfortunately, however, porcelain veneers cannot address structural issues like crookedness or an open bite; in such cases our dentists may recommend Invisalign or another orthodontic treatment instead.
- Durable and stain-resistant
Porcelain veneers bonded to your teeth are nearly as strong as natural enamel on them, meaning that they’re very resilient against temperature changes, stains, and fractures.
Before applying veneers to your teeth, your cosmetic dentist will remove a thin layer of enamel. This is to ensure they look natural and fit perfectly within the mouth.
Maintaining healthy veneers requires taking steps that won’t stain or damage them, such as chewing hard objects (pens and fingernails) or smoking, brushing regularly and flossing frequently – your dentist should provide instructions for doing so to extend their lifespan up to 15 years! With proper care, your veneers could last you for decades without needing replacement!
- Easy Maintenance
 Porcelain veneers are quite durable, they still require regular oral care in order to avoid plaque build-up and staining. Although porcelain veneers are quite durable, they still require regular oral care in order to avoid plaque build-up and staining. Brushing two times daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing every day are both great ways to ensure that all teeth – including those covered by veneers – remain clean and free of debris.
Hard foods should also be avoided if you have the habit of biting down on nuts or ice, which may chip or break veneers. Also consider wearing a mouth guard at night if you experience grinding/clenching your teeth (known as bruxism) which could damage both the enamel and veneers of your teeth.
Visit your dentist every six months for regular dental cleanings and examinations to detect issues early on, like chipping or decay. Doing this will keep your veneers looking their best over time.
By Pepper Parr
July 20th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The number of people who send the Gazette pictures and notes about issues in their communities has increased significantly – this was before the floods.
People are chaffing at some of the city spending; they see it as unnecessary and something that doesn’t really return much to the community overall.
The City Neighbourhood program that will give a group of people $500 to hold a small community event has been around for some time. City Staff are available to take people through the process – oddly – they seldom report on the events that take place; something about privacy matters.
The explanation is that Parks, Recreation and Culture is working to improve the way communities get together and build stronger relationships. The picture of the sign, shown below, outside the Brant Hills Community Centre, was seen by some as a little over the top.
This ward 3 sign may have been something Councillor Nisan wanted to see happen. Given that he no longer lives in the ward that he represents, he may need city funded events to take place so he can actually meet with his constituent.
 By Pepper Parr
July 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
A picture is indeed worth a thousand words.
 The water needed a place to go – catch basins might have been blogged. Some homes were badly damaged. Visuals sent to us by an Aldershot resident show the extent of the flooding in his neighbourhood.
The pictures were taken by Craig Cosby and are of the flood at the Willowbrook and Dorset intersection; going up Willowbrook along the creek to Enfield.
Cosby said: “I think nine home ended up flooded, some up into the main floor.
By Pepper Parr
July 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Despite a tentative agreement, LCBO workers are still on strike
The booze strike is over.
Hallelujah!
 The news that will be toasted by drinkers across Ontario. A tentative agreement with the Ontario Public Service Employees union and the LCBO to end the first strike in its history was arrived at after two days of around-the-clock bargaining.
The LCBO said stores will reopen Tuesday.
No photo op for the Premier on this occasion.
By Pepper Parr
July 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
More than 680 homes were damaged by flooding earlier this week.
 Financial support will be available to these home owners Thirteen homes along Cavendish were badly damaged. They are getting cheques from the Hwy ETR Corporation in the amount of $2000.
The City has a plan that will give $1000 to those home owners who qualify. The City CAO made it clear that the criteria to get the will be simple.
The Region has a grant of $1000 per home that was damaged; they too will have a low bar to qualify.
City Council moved quickly to get funds to people.City staff did a remarkable job scrambling to meet a situation that called for everyone to be available.
 By Pepper Parr
July 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
So what happened and why did it happen?
And where was the damage worst?
The data to this point is that 680 homes were flooded – that is not a final figure. The Mayor said her house had four inches of water in the basement but that she yet to report the damage.
In 2014 when the city was flooded there were more than 3000 homes flooded.
The graphic shows where most of the damage took place. That data came from the Region and as you can see most of the homes were in ward 3.
Hwy 407 ETR cuts through the ward.
It was block at an 8 foot pipe that got blocked that cause the water to back up and flood streets in the Cavendish area
 The water was running through West Rambo Creek where it was collected at a culvert. The grating got blocked causing the water to back up into the neighbourhood. The yellow line is the 8 foot pipe that take the water beneath the 407.  Crate that was blocked resulting in a backup of the flood waters in the Cavendish Drive community. Council, to its credit, did a very good job of take the required action to keep people informed and to get on with the clean up.
Much more on this story.
By Pepper Parr
July 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON. ON
The water has subsided.
 Was there work that could have been done to prevent this level of damage. The ruined furniture and fixtures are out on the edge of the road waiting for the garbage people to truck it away.
Waiting to learn if there is going to be any financial support from the province.
Waiting as well to hear what City Council is going to say at their Special Council meeting late today. The meeting will be web cast live starting at 9:30 – the Gazette will be reporting on that meeting.
The Regional government has loosed up how much garbage can be put out and when waste will be picked up. That information is set out below.
To support clean-up efforts, between Monday, July 22, and Friday, August 2, in addition to regular waste service, Halton Region will be providing enhanced curbside waste collection services to all residents who have reported property flooding to Halton Region as follows:
- Garbage – limits temporarily waived, no bag tags required, collected weekly on regular collection days for the next two weeks
- Bulk items – limits temporarily waived, size limits and acceptable items (e.g., furniture, carpet/flooring etc.) still apply, collected weekly on regular collection days for the next two weeks
To receive this service, you must report your flooding to the Region of Halton by calling 311.
 This is not a yard sale. The families will want to replace what has been ruined by water that flooded into their basement. There was nothing anyone could have done about the rainfall. What we could have been spared was having that water flood our streets and seep into basement.
Related news stories:
How Council stumbled to the Special Council meeting that will take place on Friday.
Photographs by Craig, an Aldershot resident.
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