 By Matt Harvey
February 15th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Provincial election takes place in a little over ten days – February 17th.
Some of the people shopping at the Fortinos on Guelph Line had views they were prepared to express.
The people of Burlington are expressing their views on it.
I spoke to 17 people outside of Fortino’s on Guelph Line in Burlington and most knew about the upcoming election, but there was not a consensus among those who I talked to.
Mike, a retiree knew about the election. He said “thought it was necessary’ adding: “For all the reasons Doug ford stated we have to have a good solid majority to be able to enable his policies to combat tariffs from the states”.
A lot people such as Renoda who is also a retiree said she knew about the election but simply answered “no” and said that it was not necessary.
Beoka who is a research manager said she didn’t think the provincial election was necessary. She said: “My understanding is it’s only happening because of what’s happening in the states right now and basically the conservative government has a better chance of winning right now because of all the fear people have about all the tariffs that are about to be imposed”.
 This is Doug Ford’s story and he is sticking to it. Adam, who is in the moving business also said that he thought the election was not necessary as well. He said: “I don’t think Doug Ford needs to do this to secure our next few years because of Trump”.
Nick who works for a municipality was in the middle ground and when asked if he thought the election was necessary, he said “To a degree”. I asked why and he stated.” “Because it’s a lot of money to have an election, but at the same time I understand why the premier doesn’t want to spend all this money on the retaliatory tariffs, but some people might say it’s not necessary, so he wants the people to decide how much we want to retaliate against Donald Trump essentially. “
Others such as Marlin who works in accounting said “yes” that its necessary “just because everything going on in the States.”
The Provincial election is on Thursday the 27th the main candidates are Doug Ford of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario, Bonnie Crombie of the Liberal Party, and Marit Stiles of the New Democratic Party and Mike Schreiner of the Green Party.
Voters will decide the outcome of this provincial election and it’s sure to be exciting to watch and see what happens. To be able to vote in Ontario, voters must be 18 years of age or older on polling day, a Canadian citizen and a resident of the province.
 By Staff
February 15th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
On Friday, February 14th – Valentine’s Day – a number of Burlington residents received a “you are loved” notice from Burlington Hydro. The notice alerted the Hydro customers that they had been “kissed; that there had been a data breach and their private information had been unlawfully accessed. An anonymized copy of the letter follows:
 Some Hydro customers didn’t take much comfort or assurance from the letter. The notice covers all the mandatory statutory elements of a notification of privacy breach (as defined by Ontario’s Information and Privacy Commissioner) but it is rather light on background information or on helpful follow-up links. In fact, if you do contact Burlington Hydro you will discover that their Customer Support organization is closed until February 18th, after the Family Day holiday.
What is disturbing or, at the very least needs further clarification, is the second paragraph of the notice – “On January 22nd, 2025, our third -party customer information system vendor made us aware that it experienced a data breach from an unauthorized user to its system. We want to assure you that the issue was quickly contained, and the impacted system is secure and there is no ongoing unauthorized access to any data.”
First, despite the date on the letterhead, it is over 3 ½ weeks from the date of the breach until the first notice to affected customers. And Burlington Hydro used snail mail to the exclusion of other, more immediate means. They have, after all, the email addresses of their customers. In an age when misuse of personal information can occur in milliseconds, this delay is simply far too long.
Secondly, and potentially far more concerning is the statement “our third -party customer information system vendor”. In other words, Burlington Hydro is saying that the customer information database is on a system held (and operated?) by a third party. Who is this “third party” and where are they located? Have they been properly vetted? How remote are they to Burlington Hydro operations? Are they in the USA and subject to all the regulations around trans-border data flows? These are serious questions.
 Mayor Meed Ward is a member of the Hydro Board with a C Dir certification that was paid for by Burlington Hydro. I suppose that we must wait until next Tuesday, at the earliest, for answers. Not surprisingly, there is nothing on the city website, although the breach would have been reported to COB as soon as Burlington Hydro was made aware. We should remember that Mayor Meed Ward sits on the Burlington Hydro Board of Directors.
 By Staff
February 15th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Donald Trump’s chaotic presidency and trade war with Canada are triggering a policy shift not seen in decades – one that will spill over into the public service, which many fear isn’t equipped to handle it without major reform.
Trump’s trade shocks have dampened Quebec sovereignty, ignited a wave of national unity and now business and political leaders are racing to recalibrate Canada’s relationship with an increasingly combative and isolationist Trump administration.
 Joseph Jacques Jean Chrétien PC OM CC KC AdE, is a Canadian politician, statesman, and lawyer who served as the 20th prime minister of Canada from 1993 to 2003. This push for a more autonomous and resilient Canada could reshape the way government is organized and managed on a scale not seen since the Chrétien government’s 1995 Program Review, driven by a fiscal crisis so severe the Wall Street Journal called Canada the “banana republic of the north.”
The government cut more than 50,000 jobs in that overhaul. Back then, Canada was embracing free trade, globalization, and deepening U.S. ties. Now, as Trump upends that order, Canada is being forced to adapt once again.
At the same time, Trump’s ruthless reduction of the U.S. bureaucracy has Canadian public servants on edge, but experts say his scorched-earth tactics won’t play out in Canada.
“(Trump’s) going to undo a lot of things the public sector has been doing for years, and I don’t think Canada can ignore it,” says Donald Savoie, a leading public administration academic, who has long called for public-service reform. “I don’t think there’s an appetite to go as far as Trump, but we’ll have to move in that direction.”
American politics have always influenced Canada, says Alasdair Roberts, a professor at the University of the University of Massachusetts Amherst’s School of Public Policy. What Trump and Elon Musk are doing will create an “echo effect,” especially if the Conservatives take power, but with a more “modulated approach.”
 More in depth detail on the federal civil service can be found at https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/innovation/human-resources-statistics/demographic-snapshot-federal-public-service-2018.html The crisis has become a catalyst to tackle Canada’s productivity, infrastructure, and pipeline problems. But aside from a handful of academics, no one is asking whether the “creaky, bloated public service”— built for another era — has the capacity to handle the shift, says former clerk of the Privy Council Michael Wernick.
“You can’t be resilient, agile, and effective in the 2020s with a public service built for the 2000s,” says Wernick, the Jarislowsky chair of public administration at the University of Ottawa.
So far, the only focus is on cutting the size of the public service. No one is talking about reforming it.
Beware the early trophies
Wernick doesn’t expect Canada will experience “Musk mayhem” or Argentina’s President Javier Milei’s chainsaw approach to cutting red tape and bureaucracy.
But the next prime minister will “be looking for early trophies.” That will likely mean across-the-board spending cuts and attrition, two of the most common tools governments use to cut spending. It’s the “most foolish and short-sighted way,” he says.
Wernick is in the growing camp calling for a strategic review, as in 1995, so the government can take stock of what government should be doing, what actually works, and stop what doesn’t. It takes political courage to make choices, he says.
That review would help government decide whether it needs to reorganize, merge, close or create departments better suited to today’s world.
 The Institute for Research on Public Policy (IRPP) was formed in 1972. It is one of the most trusted and influential think tanks in Canada. They seek to improve public policy in Canada by generating research, providing insight and influencing debate on current and emerging policy issues facing Canadians and their governments.
 By Staff
February 15th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Canada’s greatest plastic scale model contest and sale is to take place on March 21st at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum from 9 am to 4 pm
Contest categories include Aircraft, Armour, Automotive, Ships, Figures, Space, Collections as well as Intermediate, Junior and Bantam entries.
Admission: Adults $20 (Age 18+), Kids $15 (Ages 6-17). LIMITED QUANTITY AVAILABLE – to guarantee your museum entry, purchase your tickets in advance.
WIN A FLIGHT in our World War II D-Day Veteran Dakota FZ692* – purchase your admission ticket by March 21, 2025, at 12 noon EST and you will automatically be entered into the draw for a pair of seats.
 CONTEST REGISTRATION FEE – Unlimited number of model entries. Adult (Age 18+) $10, Juniors FREE. SAVE TIME & BUY IN ADVANCE!
No exchanges or refunds. Free admission for museum members and children 5 & under. Complimentary passes are not valid for this special event.
Vendor tables – SOLD OUT.
Winner of the flight on the Dakota will be notified March 23, 2025, by phone, must be minimum 12 years old to fly, and flight to be taken in 2025 at a mutually agreed upon time.
Additional info on the MODEL REGISTRATION, CONTEST RULES, AND CATEGORIES available HERE:
 By Staff
February 14th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The District School Board’s 33rd annual Halton Skills Competition, with the elementary competition taking place on Tuesday, Feb. 25 and Wednesday, Feb. 26 at the New Street Education Centre (3250 New St., Burlington).
The secondary competition will be held on Thursday, March 20 at Georgetown District High School (70 Guelph St., Georgetown).
More than 1,100 elementary and 250 secondary students will showcase their skills across various disciplines, demonstrating their creativity, technical proficiency and problem-solving skills.
 Working together students can achieve remarkable results. Elementary Competitions
The Elementary Halton Skills Competition encourages teamwork and hands-on learning for Grade 4 to 8 students. Competitors apply math, science and technology skills in engaging challenges including character animation, construction, LEGO robotics and TV/video production. These experiences help students connect classroom learning to future careers.
Secondary Competitions
The Secondary Halton Skills Competition demonstrates student expertise in areas such as 2D character animation, architectural design, auto service technology, baking, carpentry, graphic design, IT and welding. These competitions offer hands-on experience and exposure to career pathways in skilled trades and technology.
These competitions determine which teams qualify to advance to the Skills Ontario Competition, competing against students from across the province.
Background resources
Halton Skills Competition Learning and Resources Technological Education
 By Staff
February 14th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Elections Ontario now has six candidates running for the Burlington seat in the provincial election taking place February 27th,
The None of the Above Direct Democracy Party of Ontario campaigns for the 3Rs of Direct Democracy – Referendum, Recall and Real electoral and legislative Reforms that give voters control of politicians and parties. Candidates are accountable to their constituents and there are no central party policies or controls of elected MPPs beyond the binding Direct Democracy principles.
An all-candidates meeting is to take place at the Port Nelson United Church on February 18th at 7:00 pm
 By Pepper Parr
February 14th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Who knew?
The Toronto Star reported on comments Premier Doug Ford made at the London Police Service’s sold-out inaugural “chief’s gala appreciation dinner and awards night” — which was not listed on Ford’s daily campaign itinerary provided to reporters at Queen’s Park — was obtained by the Star.
Doug Ford took his tough-on-crime talk to new heights in a campaign speech where he pushed for a return to capital punishment, the Star has learned.
Musing about stiffer penalties for home invaders who kill victims, the Progressive Conservative leader called for changes in the federal Criminal Code that would empower judges to “send ‘em right to sparky.”
Continue reading Premier Ford wants capital punishment returned – prefers the electric chair over life in prison
 By Pepper Parr
February 13th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
City Council will discuss a staff report on the Burlington Lands Partnership and look at Partnership Potential for City-Owned Lands.
There are 277 City-owned properties that are part of the initial inventory. Preliminary internal staff engagement has identified the 13 potential opportunities with partnership potential.
Land exchange opportunity to facilitate amenities and housing in Major Transit Station Areas (MTSAs) – 2 potential opportunities
Redevelopment opportunity for mixed-use (public uses and amenities) in Burlington Downtown – 5 potential opportunities
Affordable housing opportunity – 6 potential opportunities
The locations were listed in a confidential report
In order to make existing city-owned sites available for partnerships, there are opportunity costs involved to define workplans to advance partnership arrangements and for the potential movement/replacement of current uses into new or other locations. In addition, if sites are to be released by the City for partnership development, these will need to be declared surplus. This report represents important initial step in mobilizing development on underutilized City-owned lands.
The assessment of city-owned sites will be integrated into the 2025 Burlington Lands Partnership (BLP) work plan and coordinated with other departments as applicable. Initial steps to continue exploring these and other opportunities will be pursued as described in this report.
Engagement: As specific land-related opportunities evolve, Council and staff will endeavor to make information on land opportunities available publicly at the appropriate time both for purposes of information and engagement and prior to final decisions where possible.
The analysis considered several high-level factors, including:
- Site location and suitability for partnerships
- Proximity to transit and vacant or developable land nearby
- Existing development interest in adjacent or nearby parcels
- Site servicing and constraints
- Proximity to parkland and public amenities
The potential opportunities outlined in this report have been verified through a desktop review exercise. The feasibility of any development or redevelopment of these sites has not been assessed yet and will be completed. Some of this work has been accommodated as part of the 2025 Budget. There may be additional resource requirements identified as some of these opportunities are pursued. These will be brought forward in future updates to Council as necessary.
Key Considerations
The City does not have any developable vacant land that has been declared surplus. There are undefined opportunity costs associated with making city owned lands available for partnerships. The cost to move/replace current uses into new or other locations must be studied. The financial implication of utilizing and/or intensifying City lands is unknown at this time. All real estate transactions will be managed by the Realty Services department in accordance with the City’s Sale of Land Policy.
Ticking off the boxes
[X] Designing and delivering complete communities
[X] Providing the best services and experiences
[X] Protecting and improving the natural environment and taking action on climate change
[X] Driving organizational performance
| Type of Opportunity |
Potential Work Plan |
| 6.0 Land exchange opportunity to facilitate amenities and housing in Major Transit Station Area (MTSAs) |
6.1 Business case
6.2 Council update on business case
6.3 Public engagement (external)
6.4 Council request for support/budget/declaration to partner |
| 7.0 Redevelopment opportunity for mixed use (public uses and amenities) in Burlington Downtown |
7.1 Request for public interest for partner
7.2 Partner recruitment, due diligence, and selection
7.3 Council Update on public interest/selected process
7.4 Development of a joint business case with the city and partner
7.5 Council update on business case with selected partner
7.6 Public engagement (external)
7.7 Council request for support/budget/declaration to partner |
| 8.0 Affordable housing opportunity |
8.1 Request for public interest for partner
8.2 Partner recruitment, due diligence, and selection
8.3 Council update on public interest/selection process
8.4 Development of a joint business case with the city and partner
8.5 Council update on business case with selected partner
8.6 Public engagement (external)
8.7 Council request for support/budget/declaration to partner |
 Station West in Ward 1 houses several thousand families with next to nothing in the way of park and recreational space. The Station West development in Ward 1 has next to nothing in the way of park space. If the city owns any of the land in that area they might give some thought to adding parkland that the developer got away with having to provide when the development was approved. Mention in the report of: Land exchange opportunity to facilitate amenities and housing in Major Transit Station Area (MTSAs) opens a door for such an opportunity/
By Staff
February 13th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
A Family Day event is taking place at the Burlington Lion’s Club: a fun-filled day of shopping, entertainment, and supporting young entrepreneurs!
Discover unique products from local vendors, enjoy delicious food, and explore the creativity of our young business owners.
Bring the whole family for a day of excitement and community spirit.
By Staff
February 13th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The weather did them in.
Even though public meetings are hybrid, in that the people taking part didn’t have to be in the room, for some reason no one was going to be able to get to the City Council chamber – so the meeting was cancelled.
That didn’t mean the wheels of the bureaucracy don’t stop turning.
The P2P report that the city is very proud of can be seen HERE
By Staff
February 13th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
For those who want to understand what the different Ontario party leaders have to say as the province gets ready to elect a Premier on February 27th there will be two debates.
One will take place on Friday in North Bay that will focus on northern issues.
On Monday, they will regroup for the major broadcasting consortium’s debate.
 Mike Schreiner Green Party  Marit Stiles, NDP Leader of the Opposition
 Doug Ford Progressive Conservative  Bonnie Crombie, leader Ontario Liberal Party
 By Oliver Brunt
February 13th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Unquestionably, the casino is appealing. Excitement and possibilities abound from the dazzling lights, whirling slot machine bells, and expectation of a large win. But beyond the surface of pleasure, bankroll management is a vital component separating casual gamblers from experienced gamers. Even the most brilliant winning streaks may rapidly become a financial loss without a strong plan for handling your money. This page explores the craft of bankroll management, offering doable advice and techniques that enable you to properly negotiate the casino terrain and increase your playing time.
Good bankroll management is about creating a whole strategy covering your playing style, risk tolerance, and financial objectives, not just about creating a budget. It’s about realizing your limitations, knowing the odds, and deciding when and how much to gamble as well as when to turn away. A well-run bankroll not only safeguards your money but also improves your whole gaming experience by lowering stress and freeing you to concentrate on enjoying the games.
 A well-run bankroll not only safeguards your money but also improves your whole gaming experience by lowering stress and freeing you to concentrate on enjoying the games. Bankroll management becomes even more important for Canadian gamers discovering the many universes of online casinos. Online gaming’s ease brings the possibility for impulse betting and overspending. Establishing clear limits and following your strategy is thus really vital. Many internet sites include tools and features like self-exclusion choices and deposit limitations to assist users control their expenditures. Making use of these tools could help you to keep control over your gaming behavior. If you want to start your online casino adventure, think about looking at choices like the Level Up Casino no deposit bonus to experience the games without first running a financial risk.
Setting a Realistic Budget
Establishing a reasonable budget is the first stage in good bankroll control. This is figuring out how much money you can reasonably afford to spend on gambling without compromising your basic needs or debt load. You should be honest with yourself about your financial status and stay away from spending money set aside for another goal. Treat your budget as a non-negotiable limit after you have set it.
- Determine disposable income. After including all required costs, figure out your discretionary income.
- Allocate a percentage. Choose a proportion of your discretionary money you would be ready to commit to gaming. To reduce possible losses, popular advice is to set aside a modest proportion, say 1-5%.
- Set a time frame. Find the period your budget calls for. Weekly, monthly, or for a particular casino trip? This will enable you to keep within your means and monitor your expenditure.
Understanding the Odds
Effective bankroll management depends on an awareness of the changes, which also greatly affects the whole gaming experience. Every casino game has a particular house edge, which stands for the long-term percentage advantage the casino owns over players. This house advantage fluctuates depending on the game and sets the expected win over time from every wager put. For instance, because of their lower house edge, that is, the casino’s advantage is less, games like blackjack and baccarat usually provide players with higher chances. For players over time, this may translate into a better likelihood of success.
 Conversely, slots and other games of pure chance usually have a larger house edge, which means players run a bigger loss and have less opportunity to win over time. Researching the house advantage of different games helps you decide where to lay your bets with more knowledge. Selecting games with a smaller house advantage helps you to optimize your possible returns and raise your odds of prolonging your playing duration, even if you run a few losses along the road.
Still, gambling has inherent hazards regardless of the circumstances and outcomes are never certain. This means it’s important to resist the temptation to chase losses by raising your bets in an effort at recuperation. This may set off a hazardous cycle of increasing losses that rapidly run down your bankroll and could be irritating. Understanding the chances and controlling your bets can help you lower the financial risk and enjoy a more eco-friendly and fun gaming environment.
Implementing a Betting Strategy
Implementing a betting strategy can provide structure to your approach and help manage your bankroll effectively, even though no method guarantees consistent wins. One common strategy is flat betting, where you wager the same amount on each bet, ensuring controlled spending and reducing the risk of impulsive decisions. Another approach is progressive betting, which involves adjusting bet sizes based on previous outcomes. While this can be a more complex strategy, it requires careful planning to prevent excessive losses. Alternatively, percentage-based betting involves wagering a fixed percentage of your remaining bankroll on each bet. This method allows you to preserve funds during losing streaks while maximizing gains during winning streaks.
Knowing When to Walk Away
Knowing when to walk away is among the most important components of bankroll control. This covers winning and losing streaks as well. By pre-setting win and loss boundaries, you can stay to your strategy and prevent emotional decision-making. Think about cashing out and savoring your earnings should your win maximum be reached. In the same vein, try to recoup your losses by resisting the need to keep playing even if your loss limit is reached. Walking away shows prudent gaming and discipline.
-
 Recall that gaming should be seen as enjoyment rather than a way to make money. Set win and loss limits. Find out how much you would be ready to lose or win before you quit playing.
- Stick to your limits. Once you get to your set boundaries, leave, independent of your feelings.
- Avoid emotional decisions. Let your judgment not be distorted by feelings like irritation or avarice.
The foundation of ethical gaming is good bankroll control. You may improve your gaming experience and safeguard your financial situation by establishing a reasonable budget, knowing the odds, using a betting technique, and knowing when to leave. Recall that gaming should be seen as enjoyment rather than a way to make money. Approaching the casino with a well-managed bankroll and a strategic attitude can help you maximize your fun and reduce the gaming hazards.
 By Staff
February 12th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Two local individuals, Evan Khalsa, a Burlington Central Graduate and Lucas Michlik, a Brock University Education Student teamed up to design a unique custom Lego set called Applewood Acres.
 Evan Khalsa and Lucas Michlik,  Applewood Acres – an entry into a Lego competiton from two Burlington students The design is part of a global competition, “Bricklink Designer Program” where Lego fans from around the world vote to help get new designs turned into official Lego sets.
The set itself is a beautifully detailed farm scene, featuring a red barn, lush gardens, and adorable animals like pigs, sheep, and ducks. It’s inspired by the rural charm and agricultural life that Lucas and Evan grew up in.
The set has a personal connection for the two; it blends elements of the past with a peaceful, modern farmstead.
The competition is being held through a program called Bricklink Designer Program, and voting for the designs is open until February 21.
This is where they group needs the support of their community – by voting for Applewood Acres, we can help bring this creative design to life and make it an official Lego set that anyone can build and enjoy.
Link to the voting: Click HERE
 A close-up look at some of the detail around Applewood Acres Related news story
HMCS Haida done in Lego
By Staff
February 12th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Chamber of Commerce announces the names of the 62 finalists across 8 categories that showcase the very best of Burlington’s business community.
These finalists will gather at the Burlington Convention Centre on May 14th, when the best in each category will be revealed.
The finalists in the 2025 Business Excellence Awards Gala are:
Small Business Award
Birmingham Consulting Inc.
Catlin Inc.
Chris Noon Creative
Foli Living Inc.
Harb Plumbing
wrksourcing
Hudson Restoration Inc.
Lakeside Family Dental
Monfriese Rum Cakes
On-Site Drapery Cleaners
Pets N Groom
Renata Pollock Studio
VP Workforce Solutions
Large Business Award
ABB Inc.
Ashwood Glen
FAM Ti Inc.
Lawrie Insurance Group
Mercedes-Benz Burlington
Jan Kelley
Charity/Not-For-Profit Award
Art Gallery of Burlington
Bonnie Place
Burlington Dads
Burlington Food Bank
Burlington Helping Burlington
Capillary Wave Community for Men
Centre for Diverse Learners
Community Living Burlington
Distress Centre Halton
Elizabeth Gardens Creative Collective
Halton Learning Foundation
Shifra Homes Inc.
Woodview Mental Health and Autism Services
Heritage Award
Burlington Lawn Bowling Club
CHCH TV
Pollard Windows & Doors
SB Partners LLP
Voortman Cookies Limited
Women Business Leader Award
Izabela Kvesic from Blue Water Performance Limited
Mary Dilly from Downsizing Solutions
Jen Gray from Gray Automotive Group
Ann-Marie Burton from LeftTurn Strategy
Judi Partridge from PAI Government Relations
Santina Hughes from Serenity Creative Agency
Cathy and Tanya Rocca from The Rocca Sisters Team
Brittany Phillips from Vibe Photo Experience
Young Entrepreneur Award
TJ Harb from Harb Plumbing
Rachel Hyde from Burlington Hydro Inc.
Abhishek Kansal from Million Deliveries Inc.
Charlie Kerrigan from V.I.L. Landscaping Inc.
Sarah Stone from Stone Graphic and Web Design
Environmental Impact Award
Bosch Rexroth Canada
Burlington Hydro Inc.
City of Burlington
Conservation Halton
Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association
ScriptString.AI
New Business of the Year Award
19th Hole Indoor Golf & Social
Hypnosis Training Canada
Radius
Rustic Avenue
WorkWell Spaces
YESA
By Pepper Parr
February 11th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
There is to be an all-candidates debate at the Port Nelson United Church on February 18th.
 Megan Beauchemen, NDP candidate No word on who the moderator will be. A specific start time has yet to be published.
All we have is that the event is scheduled and at least one of the candidates is preparing.
There are four known candidates: Natalie Pierre, the incumbent, Andrea Grebenc, Liberal Party, Kyle Hutton, Green Party and Megan Beauchemen, NDP candidate.
The long-expected provincial election is described by many as an unnecessary election that was not scheduled to take place until 2026. Premier Ford said he needed a stronger mandate to fight the economic challenges that will arise when American tariffs are put in place.
 Progressive Conservative candidate Natalie Pierre  Kyle Hutton, Green Party candidate  Andrea Grebenc with Liberal Party leader Bonnie Crombie leaving literature.
 By Staff
February 11th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Hamilton Health Sciences’ (HHS) Juravinski Hospital emergency department saw over 25 hip fractures in the first week of February.
 Experts are warning everyone to take extreme caution when navigating slippery surfaces to avoid this and other debilitating injuries.
Continue reading Hip fractures rise due to ice on streets
 By Staff
February 11th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
An alert Burlington resident advised us this morning that the City of Burlington will no longer use the Alert Burlington program, effective immediately.
There is no further action needed on your end, and all personal information will be erased.
Moving forward, emergency alerts for life-threatening incidents will be issued through the national Alert Ready system.
 We were ready in 1812 – are we ready now? Learn more at www.alertready.ca. Residents looking to stay informed during an emergency should visit www.burlington.ca/subscribe to subscribe to newsfeeds, calendars, and webpages for the latest information on the City’s emergency response.
 If you are in immediate danger, please call 9-1-1. Do not respond to this email. This email is not monitored.
Our reader wonders if the President of the United States would see this as an opportunity to invade the country in the dark of night without our even knowing it.
Could this be the war of 1812 all over again? Could the Burlington Heights be scaled again and allow them to capture Hamilton at the same time.
These are perilous times – or at least that is the opinion of one city resident.
 By Staff
February 11th, 2025
BURLINGTON, PN
City of Burlington administrative services will be closed for Family Day, on Monday, Feb. 17. A summary of closures is listed below.
| City Service |
Holiday Closure Information |
| Animal Services |
The Animal Shelter at 2424 Industrial St. will be closed to appointments on Monday, Feb. 17. To report an animal control related emergency on a holiday, please call 905-335-7777. |
| Burlington Transit |
Burlington Transit will operate on a Sunday schedule on Monday, Feb. 17. The Downtown Transit Terminal, at 430 John St., and Specialized Dispatch will be closed.
Online services
|
| 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 on Monday, Feb. 17.
Many service payments are available online at burlington.ca/onlineservices. If your request is urgent, call 905-335-7777 to connect with the City’s live answering service.
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 Feb. 17.
Except for the Family Day 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 paytickets.ca. |
| Parking |
Free parking is available downtown, on the street, in municipal lots and in the parking garage (414 Locust St) after 6 p.m. and on holidays, including Monday, Feb. 17.
On Sundays, free parking is available downtown, on the street, in municipal lots,. and in the parking garage (414 Locust St.).
On Saturdays, pay parking downtown is required in high-demand parking lots (Lots 1, 4 and 5) and all on-street metered parking spaces. A three-hour maximum is in effect for all on-street spaces. Free parking is available in the remaining municipal lots and the parking garage (414 Locust St.).
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. If you have family and friends staying with you that require street parking, please visit burlington.ca/parkingexemptions to register for a parking exemption. Please note: parking exemptions are not valid during declared snow events, to assist with snow removal.
|
| Recreation Programs and Facilities |
Drop-in recreation activities
Indoor pools, including Aldershot (50 Fairwood Pl W), Angela Coughlan (2425 Upper Middle Rd.), Centennial (5151 New St.), and Tansley Woods (1996 Itabashi Way) are open on Family Day Monday, Feb. 17 for swimming. Tansley Woods Community Centre also offers a drop-in family fitness, family gaming, and craft time on Family Day.Drop-in swimming, skating and other recreation program times vary for the long weekend. For all schedules, visit burlington.ca/dropinandplay.Cogeco Skating at Burlington Rotary Centennial Pond
The outdoor rink at 1340 Lakeshore Rd. will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., weather and ice conditions permitting. Residents are encouraged to call the ice conditions hotline at 905-335-7738, ext. 8587 before leaving to make sure the pond is open. The free skate lending program at the Burlington Rotary Centennial Pond is available Monday to Thursday, 5 to 9 p.m., Friday 5 to 10 p.m., and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. for Saturday, Sunday, and holiday Monday. For more information, visit burlington.ca/pond.Cogeco Neighbourhood Rinks
The outdoor skating season is here. Find a Cogeco Neighbourhood Rink in your neighbourhood at burlington.ca/neighbourhoodrinks. There are seven locations to choose from.
Outdoor Fun
Head outside and play in our parks with trails, disc golf at Tyandaga Golf Course (1265 Tyandaga Park Dr.), tobogganing and more. Explore all the options at burlington.ca/outdoorplay.Play Equipment Lending Library
If you need some indoor or outdoor play equipment, try the Play Equipment Lending Library. It’s free of charge! Equipment pickup and return is at Haber Community Centre (3040 Tim Dobbie Dr.). To reserve and borrow, visit burlington.ca/playlending. Customer Service
Recreation, Community and Culture customer service is available to assist you over the holiday weekend:
- In person at recreation facility counters during program times (Feb. 15, 16 and 17)
- By email at liveandplay@burlington.ca (Feb. 15 and 16)
- By phone at 905-335-7738 (Feb. 15 and 16)
- Phone and email service are closed on Feb. 17
|
| Roads, Parks and Forestry |
The administrative office will be closed on Monday, Feb. 17. Essential services, including winter control, will be provided as required. |
Burlington is a city where people, nature and business thrive. Sign up to learn more about Burlington at burlington.ca/subscribe and follow @CityBurlington on social media.
By Julieta Belen Correa
February 10th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Canada is home to some of the most diverse bucket-list destinations on the planet — it has some of the best ski slopes, thousands of kilometres of untouched nature, and multiple hubs of commerce and entertainment of international renown. This, coupled with its expansive tourism push in recent years, means that Canada relies on an adaptable and modern aviation industry.
Luckily for tourists and Canadians alike, the nation hosts North America’s busiest and most technologically advanced airports, perfect for handling the influx of tourism expected over the next ten years. Take a look at the top ten busiest airports in Canada.
10. Kelowna International Airport (YLW)
You can fly into Kelowna, a critical gateway to British Columbia’s Okanagan region, to explore some of Canada’s best wineries, lake regions, and the breathtaking scenery of Osoyoos. The airport serves around 2,000,000 passengers a year and offers destinations nationwide and routes all the way down to sunny Mexico.
 Billy Bishop, named after a Canadian war hero is an airport minutes from downtown Toronto 9. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)
Toronto’s second-largest airport, situated on the Toronto Islands, is named after one of Canada’s most iconic fighter pilots. This airport caters to just over 2,000,000 passengers a year and makes a great alternative to the massive Toronto Pearson International Airport, especially if you’re looking for either domestic or short-haul flights. You can expect shorter security queues and faster processing times so that you can make every minute count of your vacation or work trip.
 If your destination as a tourist is Halifax International – you will want to visit Peggy’s Cove. 8. Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ)
Coming in at 8th place on the list is Halifax Stanfield. The airport serves the Halifax region, mainland Nova Scotia, and other areas in the Maritime provinces. As Canada’s easternmost international airport, it is a vital connection for rural communities and also provides hundreds of jobs for the region’s tourism sector. The airport generated a massive C$4.2 billion for the Nova Scotia economy in 2023 alone, and with a rise of over 20%, it’s expected to continue to grow in the coming years.
The airport is also home to numerous Fixed-Based Operators (FBOs), private companies that provide essential aviation services like fuel, parking, maintenance, and passenger amenities.
7. Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport (YWG)
Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport, located in the Winnipeg Capital Region, handled just over 4 million passengers last year. YWG is crucial for connecting small communities living in difficult conditions with regularly scheduled flights to Northern Manitoba, Northwestern Ontario, and Nunavut.
6. Ottawa/Macdonald–Cartier International Airport (YOW)
As the airport serving Canada’s capital city, Ottawa International is a home base for Canadian North and a major hub for Porter Airlines, which is investing $65 million into the airport infrastructure over the coming years. The airport serves the National Capital Region with over 4 million passengers annually — a 36.9% increase on the previous year, the highest such growth among Canada’s busiest airports.
The airport’s modern terminal, extended in 2008, features artwork reflecting the region’s history and culture, creating a uniquely Canadian welcome for first-time visitors to the country.
5. Edmonton International Airport (YEG)
Climbing into the top 5 busiest airports in Canada sees a marked jump in passenger numbers, with a massive 7.4 million passengers flying in and out of Edmonton International Airport. The airport caters to residents and visitors to the Edmonton Metro Region, some three hours north of Calgary.
The airport itself is so busy due to the lack of other major cities in the region, making it the only major airport for those travelling from Alberta and Saskatchewan.
 Calgary International 4. Calgary International Airport (YYC)
Calgary International Airport, also known as “the gateway to the Rockies,” serves a whopping 18.5 million passengers a year. One reason for YYC’s huge numbers is its proximity to Banff and Canada’s impressive range of ski destinations.
YYC is home to two terminals — one domestic and one international — and serves as the main hub for Canadian airline WestJet. The airport offers world-class accessibility with modern parking systems, easy-to-use car rental services, and the reliable Calgary Transit System, which offers routes across the region.
3. Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL)
Serving the Greater Montreal area, Montréal–Trudeau International Airport is a bustling hub that managed over 21 million passengers in 2023. This large operation is the region’s primary link between Canada’s French-speaking population and the rest of the world.
YUL’s strategic location makes it perfect for transatlantic flights, with popular routes to Paris, London, and Frankfurt. This dynamic location, combined with a modern general aviation terminal, makes it an ideal airport for those looking to charter a private plane to Europe and beyond. Domestic travellers also benefit from frequent flights to Toronto, Vancouver, and Halifax.
 Vancouver International 2. Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
Vancouver International Airport, nestled on Sea Island in Richmond, British Columbia, is the busiest airport in Western Canada. Welcoming almost 25 million passengers in 2023, the airport is the ultimate gateway to the region’s surrounding mountains, lakes, and the icy North Pacific. YVR is consistently ranked as one of the best airports in North America and was most recently named as the number-one airport on the continent in 2024.
Vancouver International is also the nation’s best link to Asia, with frequent flights to Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Seoul. Its location also makes it a popular stopover for flights to Australia and New Zealand.
1. Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)
With almost double the capacity of number two on the list, Toronto has been Canada’s busiest airport for decades. It’s the primary hub for Air Canada and the second busiest arrivals hub for international travellers to North America. Serving the Greater Toronto Area, Pearson handled an impressive 44.8 million passengers in 2023, making it the pride of Canada’s already-impressive aviation industry.
 Pearson International Located just outside Toronto in Mississauga, Pearson offers direct flights to destinations on every continent. With its cutting-edge amenities, including world-class dining and shopping, Toronto Pearson sets the standard for Canadian airports when it comes to sheer size and availability.
Canada, Connected
With some of the most forward-thinking, accessible, and downright massive airports in North America, Canada continues to impress year-on-year with its dazzling array of airports. Vancouver continues to offer the best service in North America, Toronto Pearson connects you to the world with ease, and Calgary, Halifax, and Winnipeg airports continue to provide a vital lifeline to some of the continent’
By Lyall Gillies
February 10th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
As more people are recently choosing internet platforms for leisure and enjoyment, Burlington’s entertainment scene has changed dramatically. Daily life now mainly revolves around digital entertainment, which includes movie streaming, video game playing, virtual event participation, and online casino exploration. With advancing technologies and a better internet connection, there is a change in the leisure activity choices of the citizens of Burlington.
Top Digital Entertainment Trends in Burlington
Here are some of the most vital online entertainment trends of the city with the rise of Bitcoin casinos and the growing attraction of e-sports.
Online gaming and cryptocasinos growth
 Players can compete with each other. Online gaming has been one of the major developments in the field of entertainment in Burlington. In particular, the most pervasive activities to spend time with friends or simply unwind include:
- Multi-player video games.
- Mobile apps.
- Online casino platforms.
- Digital games.
Since the emergence of online gaming, numerous developments have been recorded. One of these is the introduction of crypto casinos. From intensive research, it is claimed that these casinos are characterized by safety and reliability. Moreover, players tend to enjoy incredible security, swiftness, and anonymity when it comes to serious financial transactions. So if you are an ardent online casino player who seeks the top crypto gambling platforms that can guarantee several jawbreaking features, you may want to visit https://cryptocasinos-ca.ca/.
Streaming services dominate digital entertainment
Households in Burlington have made a shift towards streaming services as the on-demand nature has made them the default choice for entertainment. With all manner of movies, TV shows, and original content, the menus offered by companies like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime just keep on getting bigger and better. Niche streaming sites handling sports, documentaries, and independent films are also gaining traction. More importantly, Burlington locals who would choose online access to NHL, NBA, and international sports leagues over paying subscription to traditional cable have found great popularity with live sports streaming. Besides, local artists and content creators use platforms like YouTube and Twitch to grow larger audiences, which makes this a very lively digital entertainment ecosystem.
Virtual events and online socialization
 The whole family can take pat in an online game Virtual events have been a great tool in altering the very nature of concerts, comedy shows, and cultural gatherings for the people of Burlington. With the transition into digital performances, people can enjoy live events now from the comfort of home while interacting with others through either the chat or video feature. Virtual reality meetups and interactive chat rooms are becoming the norm in online social spaces, especially on Discord and Clubhouse.
E-sports and competitive online gaming
The popularity of competitive gaming and e-sports is rapidly rising, drawing in gamers and viewers alike. Burlington’s gamer community is tuning in to world tournaments featuring blockbuster titles such as Fortnite, League of Legends, and Call of Duty. Local gaming communities and e-sports leagues give beginners a chance to practice and improve. Online competitive gaming is part of mainstream entertainment options; streaming platforms such as Twitch and YouTube Gaming now show live coverage of major e-sporting events.
Digital casinos and the future of online gambling
Online gambling in Canada just keeps rolling, and Burlingtonians show increased interest in the digital form of casino. While the classics in online casinos aren’t going to lose their popularity, blockchain integration into them and new cryptocurrency exchange options are gradually changing the face of gaming. Cryptocasinos offer an extra layer of security, faster payout options, and a level of anonymity not offered by traditional online gambling. With Canadian law constantly changing regarding online gaming, Burlington players increasingly look toward sites that bring them innovation and reward-laden experiences in gaming.
Evolution of online shopping and entertainment subscriptions
E-commerce and digital entertainment go together as Burlington seeks convenience and personalized experiences in entertainment. Equally common are subscription-based services for video games like Xbox Game and PlayStation Plus as well as, music including Spotify and Apple Music. With those boundaries blurred between retail and entertainment, especially on the likes of Instagram and TikTok Live Shopping, offering consumers an opportunity to interact with influencers and brand ambassadors.
The future of online entertainment in Burlington
 Online entertainment in Burlington is only going to diversify further with the steps in technology. It’s going to continue offering inhabitants of the city more and more alternatives, considering that virtual reality and blockchain-based gaming will rise, alongside the tailoring of streaming services. Websites like CryptoCasinos-CA are shaping the future of digital entertainment with innovative and secure ways to enjoy online gaming, including gaming, streaming, virtual events, and interactive social platforms. Thus, the digital entertainment landscape in Burlington takes new shapes to respond to the desires of a tech-savvy audience.
|
|
