By Staff
December 20th, 2022
BURLINGTON, ON
If we didn’t think we are a society in serious trouble – think again.
Headline in a Toronto newspaper.
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December 20th, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON
It is about to officially winter; a great time to get outdoors and make the best of it. There are opportunities galore for everyone to be active outside and inside.  Centennial Pond becomes a skating rink Burlington Rotary Centennial Pond Residents are encouraged to call the ice conditions hotline, 905-335-7738, ext. 8587 before leaving their house, to make sure that the Pond is open. The skate lending program is back this season at the Burlington Rotary Centennial Pond and is available Monday to Friday, 5 to 10 p.m., Saturday, Sunday, PA days and holiday school breaks, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Holiday Ice and Gym Rentals Learn more about how to rent at burlington.ca/rentals.  Created by neighbours, maintained by the neighbourhood – a great place to gather and get to know those neighbours. Neighbourhood Rinks Tobogganing • Brant Hills Park, southwest of the tennis courts, 2300 Duncaster Dr. Tim Hortons Free Skating Drop-In Programs Play Equipment Lending Library Swimming Lessons  One of the inside things you can do in the winter. Disc Golf and Hiking at Tyandaga Golf Course
December 20th, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON
 Burlington Chamber of Commerce Terry Caddo The Burlington Chamber of Commerce speaks of a great first year under the direction of Terry Caddo who has sent out a call to the Burlington business community asking for responses from anyone interested in serving on the Board of Directors. They are looking for senior level people with strength in Financial, IT, Large and Small Business and Corporate Communications. The Chamber Board meets approximately 6-8 times per year with additional board subcommittee participation . The Burlington Chamber of Commerce board of directors is appointed annually at the Annual General meeting. The directors shall hold office for a term of one year to a maximum of six terms. If you are interested in being a Burlington Chamber of Commerce board member and be part of a progressive, results-oriented and fiscally responsible Board of Directors – they want to hear from you. The Chamber has set out its five priorities for the 2023 – 2024 (Roll your cursor over the graphic for a larger image)  All five priorities are defined as urgent. Very significant changes were made in the Chamber Committee structure – that ruffled some feathers and led to some talk about how effective Caddo was as Presidnet. The current committee structure is: Member Experience and Engagement Committee
December 20th, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON
There’s been a revolution in the way people buy fashion. In the past, shoppers would head to high street stores and wait for sales to tempt them into splurging on luxury brands. But this process can be slow and laborious. With the rise of digital channels, buying fashions has become a much quicker and easier experience. If you look closely, trends have always played a big role in what people buy. From new style rules to the merging of departmental stores, fashions have changed over time as consumers have evolved and new ideas have taken root.  How do you put yourself at Fashion events without leaving your living room? NFT’s are one of the solutions being offered. Today, more than ever before, we’re experiencing an era of disruption where old ways of doing things can’t survive if they aren’t adaptable and innovative. While we talk about trends and the world is proceeding towards a new dawn of digital transformation, here is a brand that has been a part of this revolution for a while now. ice7 casino has a wide array of offerings to choose from and makes your free time worthwhile. Luxury brands have increasingly ventured into the digital realm, exploring new means of introducing NFTs to their product ranges and marketing campaigns in an effort to stand out. Some prominent brands joining the bandwagon are Burberry, Gucci & Louis Vuitton. In this blog post, you can discover some of today’s most prominent trends that are likely to impact the way you buy fashion in the future — as well as potential opportunities that come with each one.  Close ups of what the fashion world is planning. What Is an NFT, and How Does It Relate to Fashion? The Advent of Metaverse Fashion The Rise of the E-Commerce Marketplace  With an NFT you could be part of the fashion show audience seen on the left. Exclusive and Unique Content The Upgraded Video Game Collectibles Bottom Line Ready to explore the future of fashion? Let’s get started.
December 20th, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON
The Art Gallery of Burlington holiday Hours are: December 24: 10am – 3pm Program offerings are:
December 19th, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON
As we approach a time of year when the spiritual part of our lives is more focused, the words of a man that we lost during 2022, set out the challenge for we human beings. Sacks was a member of the House of Lords but chose to use his title as Rabbi first when his name was being used.
December 17th, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON Some of the illustrations can be enlarged by rolling the cursor over them The Government of Ontario is chugging along with its plans to overhaul Ontario Place, filing an official development application with the City of Toronto at the end of November. The planning documents, which recently became available to the public, lay out details of what exactly the province has in store for the Toronto waterfront space. Notable changes and additions to the original design include more park space, a taller Budwiser Stage, and a more detailed plan for services that will be offered in the spa.  It will be a much different place when the work is completed. Cost is in the $300 million range. The update comes after many month of criticism from residents, activists, and politicians alike, largely directed at the province’s decision to lease out large swaths of the 155-acre Ontario Place to private companies. The most controversial private partner was Therme Group, a Vienna-based firm tasked with building a $350M spa and waterpark for Ontario Place that visitors would have to pay to access. The province appeared to address concerns of privatization in the planning documents, noting that “the proposed development ensures that approximately two-thirds of the parkland site is open to the public without cost,” which , of course, still means one-third of the parkland will be restricted. However, “100% of the waterfront is publicly accessible,” the planning documents say. Therme Group’s waterpark and spa engulfs much of the West Island, but new updates to the plans now call for more park space to be included. Their section of Ontario Place will feature 12 acres of new public space, including parkland, a beach, and gathering places. Plans also call for a man-made wetland area that will help to manage water run-off into the lake.  A look at the site from a different angle. “Over 25,000 square metres of aquatic habitat and wetland will be created across the West Island, including a new submerged reef at the East Headland and new wetland created along the inner lagoons,” the documents read. “The potential for additional habitat in Brigantine Cove is being considered through the advancing EA process, which may result in over 6 acres of new wetland across Ontario Place.”  Ontario Place – a much different destination when it is completed. Therme’s 50,000 sq.-metre futuristic-looking glass structure that will house the spa and and waterpark will top out at nine-storeys (45 m) at its peak, with sloping green roofs covering much of the building. The facilities inside, which guests will have to pay roughly $40 to access for the day, will be divided into four main zones: Genesis: Where the spa’s therapy services will be housed, including “curated sauna and steam room experiences.” Elysium: The wellness centre with “individually tailored therapies to enhance well being including massages, light and LED therapy, cryo-saunas, and vitamin and mineral pools.” Over on the East Island, Live Nation will build an entirely new Budweiser Stage that can operate year-round — a big change for the currently seasonal venue. The new stage and seating bowl will both be taller than their predecessors, a move that the Province says will protect against future flooding.  20,000 people when set up as an outdoor venue – that is a crowd. Wonder who the first concert will be. The venue’s capacity is set to increase to 20,000, although it will be less when operating as an indoor venue. Live Nation also has plans to build new service and pedestrian bridges to the mainland, a new gateway plaza, and a new hospitality building. But as the planning documents note, “The proposal remains at an early stage of development. A future rezoning submission will be required, which will provide greater clarity regarding the building design.”  The intention is to add to the science aspects and to link up with the Science Centre The Province is also considering a “potential science-based destination” that would occupy the underutilized pods and Cinesphere. They’re working with the Ontario Science Centre to explore the opportunity, but are currently envisioning a new single-story mainland entrance pavilion, which would sit above the parking structure and add 21,000 sq. m of programming space to the pods and Cinesphere.  A collection of Islands. Outdoor adventure programming and active recreation uses are also being considered, but no details were provided as of yet. An adventure park was originally planned for the updated Ontario Place, with private partner Ecorecreo Group set to build aerial obstacle courses, net-based aerial adventures, ziplines, and escape rooms. But in the fall, it was reported that Ecorecre pulled out of the project. Parking to access all of the planned changes to Ontario Place will be largely consolidated in an underground garage that can also accommodate bus pick up and drop off. The garage will have 2,118 parking spots, with 632 of the existing surface-level parking spots also being retained for a total of 2,750. This will be a big change from the 1,270 spots that exist currently. The development will have to go through the City of Toronto’s approval process before the province can get to work, which, if history is any indicator, will likely spur further changes to the proposed plans. Content for this article came from Storeys, a web site dedicated to news for the development sector.
December 16th, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON
Despite the chaos on attending classes during the academic year the Halton District School Board the Ontario Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) were very good.  Students writing exams Grade 3, Grade 6 and Grade 9 students performed above the provincial average based on assessments completed in the 2021-2022 school year. These results on EQAO (hdsb.ca) demonstrate that HDSB students are well above the provincial standard (Level 3 & 4, or a B grade or above) in Grade 3 and Grade 6 Reading and Writing, as well as Grade 9 Mathematics and the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test. In Grade 3 assessments, the HDSB outperforms the province by eight to nine percentage points. In Grade 6 assessments, the HDSB exceeds the provincial average by six to eleven percentage points with 91.5% and 90.6% of Grade 6 students meeting the provincial standard on Reading and Writing, respectively.
In Grade 9 Mathematics, the HDSB outperforms the provincial average by 9 percentage points.
In primary classrooms, HDSB staff continue to focus on sustaining effective Comprehensive Literacy Programs which include assessment for learning, differentiated and guided instruction and methods of monitoring student achievement. The Board continues to apply responsive support for all learners. EQAO assessment results expand upon the current knowledge about student learning, and serve as an important tool for improvement at the individual, school, school board and provincial levels. The Board uses this data at the school and Board level, along with a variety of other student assessment data, to focus efforts toward continuously improving student achievement.  In high school math is very much a hands on subject. While students in the HDSB perform well above the provincial average, the Board continues to prioritize Mathematics as an area for improvement. This work includes a focus on professional learning to support teachers in mathematics instruction and assessment, and supports an investment in high-quality resources and training in every school. Our revised Math Plan is reflective of the new Math Curriculum. It provides opportunities for staff learning and involves developing learner profiles, using effective instructional and assessment strategies and resources to support Math learning. “We are very proud of the HDSB’s EQAO results as the Board exceeds the provincial average on all assessments,” says Tina Salmini, Associate Director for the Halton District School Board. “After several challenging years, this success is attributed to the hard work, flexibility and dedication of our staff, students and families.”
December 15th, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON
The Hamilton airport people report that they have done it again. Statistics Canada data. Their growth numbers were the best in Canada for the year 2021 according to Statistics Canada. Hamilton International facilitated more than 156,000 tonnes of cargo in 2021, which reflects a notable 59 percent increase as compared to 2017 and as compared to an average three percent decline across Canada in the same period.  A Lynx Air plane arriving in Hamilton on its inaugural flight. “This steady growth in cargo activity can be attributed to the accelerated shift to e-commerce, alongside the increased demand and movement of a variety of essential medical supplies during the pandemic,” said Cole Horncastle, Executive Managing Director of Hamilton International. “As the largest domestic overnight express cargo airport and the third largest cargo freight airport in Canada, Hamilton International is a key economic driver and vital transportation hub for the Hamilton region and across Ontario.” Hamilton International’s 2021 Economic Impact Study, completed by ICF International Incorporated, found that Hamilton International delivered 4,720 jobs and $1.5b in total economic output, with 2,770 jobs and $1b of that directly attributed to its cargo business. Cargo operations at the Airport have experienced a 29 percent growth in all areas, including employment, labour income, value added and industry activity, over the past five years:
Hamilton International offers cargo partners significant advantages, including its strategic proximity to Ontario’s 400-series highways, the Greater Toronto Area, and the U.S. border. The Airport also has 24-hour landing capability, a dual runway system of 10,000ft and 6,000ft, and dedicated Canada Border Services Agency staff on site, all of which support quick turnarounds for cargo carriers. Hamilton International was also designated as a Foreign Trade Zone Point in 2020 Ontario – providing businesses that import/export goods or manufacture products in Hamilton access to direct support on a range of duty deferrals and tax exemptions. “Hamilton International is a thriving multi-modal hub and has become one of the fastest growing cargo airports in Canada. We are proud to work with numerous cargo partners to ensure Ontarians can ship and receive the goods they need reliably, safely, and efficiently,” added Horncastle. “The Airport is a vital gateway in Southern Ontario’s strategic transportation corridor and looks forward to continuing to grow cargo and passenger activity in the years to come.”  Ron Foxcroft: Chair of the city owned John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport Chair of the city owned Hamilton Airport, Ron Foxcroft said: “Management and Stakeholders are delighted with the success of John C Munro Hamilton International Airport achieved in 2021. He adds that: “We have our numbers for 11 months of 2022 and expect to exceed budget for the year. We are kicking serious butt at the airport, because we have a Championship Management Team. Personal, vacation and business travel increased as passengers resumed post pandemic travel. Customers were happy with the friendly and efficient service levels minus gridlock flying out of Hamilton. In 2023 passengers levels have the opportunity to exceed pre pandemic levels, as ultralow cost carriers continue to grow in Hamilton. John C Munro Airport is the fastest growing overnight express cargo airport in Canada. World class cargo operators at Hamilton, see continued growth in 2023. Leadership at Hamilton with Cathie Puckering, Cole Horncastle , Dina Carlucci, and their team with the help of the shareholder Vantage Airport Group, plan to exceed budgets and forecasts in 2023.” About John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport
December 14th, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON
In a presentation to council yesterday, in the Engagement Matters, there is no mention of there having been any public engagement or input into this project. Public engagement is something that is planned for later when it will be too late for the Citizens of Burlington to have their say on the project and the expenditure of $80 million dollars.  Jim Thomson: less than impressed with the way public engagement is taking place on the Bateman High School “adaptive reuse” project that is going to cost $70 million plus. Much of that will come out of the taxpayers pocket. This is not in keeping with the Burlington Community Engagement Charter There was no “Early and Widespread Notification” of the magnitude and scope of this project. Well you now have a complete report isn’t it time to have a public information session to explain the project and allow the public to ask questions of staff. There is plenty of time between now and when the actual price comes back to council for approval. You have kept the public in the dark for over a year. Time for Council to step up and ensure that “Engagement” actually happens on this project. In addition to the Code of Good Governance the Corporate Policy is that ” the City of Burlington will engage stakeholders throughout the decision-making process which will be open, visible and transparent to the public. It doesn’t say that stakeholders will be consulted later, it says throughout the process. So it’s time to have real public engagement about this project. Editor’s note: The city at times does not see the public as stakeholders; the school board, Brock University, the Library and Tech Place are seen as the stakeholders.
December 14, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON
That put an end to the dropping by for a drink and picking up a dozen eggs The play is being performed in Stoney Creek. All the details are HERE
December 14th, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON
 This isn’t the average family taking a trip – but can you imagine the fun they will have? Are you planning on taking your family on a road trip during the holidays? Whether it’s across Canada or just to visit relatives in another city, highway travel can be fraught with worry and danger. In order to ensure that both you and your loved ones stay safe while making memories together on the road, it’s important that you follow all of the necessary safety measures before embarking on your journey. This article will provide an ultimate guide for Canadians travelling by car this season, helping to make sure everyone is kept safe throughout the entire trip.  Check the tire pressure before you start your trip Before you set out on your road trip, it’s important to check your vehicle and make sure everything is in working order. Start by checking all of your fluid levels, brakes and tires. If necessary, top off the fluids or make sure to bring extra in case you need to add more on the go. If your brakes are showing signs of wear or tear, make sure to get them inspected by a mechanic before heading out. Check your tire pressure and tread levels to make sure they’re up to standard. 1. Prepare your vehicle for the trip – check fluid levels, brakes, and tiresBefore you set out on your road trip, it’s important to check your vehicle and make sure everything is in working order. Start by checking all of your fluid levels, brakes and tires. If necessary, top off the fluids or make sure to bring extra in case you need to add more on the go. If your brakes are showing signs of wear or tear, make sure to get them inspected by a mechanic before heading out. Check your tire pressure and tread levels to make sure they’re up to standard. You’ll also want to make sure your vehicle is insured, and that your insurance policy covers long-distance travel. Cars with low insurance rates might not cover long-distance trips, so you’ll want to double-check your policy before setting out.  GPS systems have been known to fail and to be wrong – take a paper map. 2. Plan your route and make sure to take into account rest stops, gas stations, and food options 3. Make sure everyone in the car knows where the emergency exits are and how to use them 4. Pack snacks and drinks for the drive, as well as a first-aid kit 5. Keep an eye on weather conditions and plan your route accordingly  Create a itinerary and leave one with family or friends – take one with you – it will probably change 6. Don’t forget to pack a map! 7. Let your loved ones know where you are and when to expect you Although winter road trips can offer some challenges, they can also be great fun for the whole family. By following our safety tips and preparing your vehicle ahead of time, you can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for everyone involved. So gas up the car, buckle up, and enjoy the ride!
December 13th, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON
While 6 out of 10 eligible donors in Canada believe donating blood or plasma over the holidays is important, only 1 in 10 plans to book an appointment before Dec. 31.  There are people who donate regularly -have been doing it for decades. Those are the findings of a new Ipsos survey, and they are especially worrisome now. The national inventory of several blood types is far below optimal. At the same time, respiratory illnesses including RSV, flu and COVID are making it more difficult for us to staff donor centres and donation events, and for donors to keep their appointments. “Winter cold and flu season is upon us, our cancellation rates have jumped significantly, and we’re heading into the toughest weeks to collect blood and blood products. Winter storms could further impact collections, and more than 25,000 open appointments must be filled across Canada by Dec. 31. Booking an appointment and donating will make all the difference,” says Rick Prinzen, Canadian Blood Services’ chief supply chain officer and vice-president of donor relations. O-negative blood donors are especially needed because this blood type can be transfused to any patient. In times of emergency or for newborn patients, O-negative blood, the universal blood type, makes a lifesaving difference. One blood component, platelets, has a shelf life of only seven days Regular blood donations are also needed to ensure platelets are available. Platelets are a vital blood component with a shelf life of only seven days. One of the most common uses for platelets is to treat cancer patients. Winter is a challenging time for blood and plasma collections. Weather impacts and illness are inevitable, so patients are counting on donors to keep their appointments whenever possible. “Late cancellations and missed appointments make it challenging to collect blood products. If you make an appointment, please try to keep it. If you are unable to make it to your appointment, please cancel it as early as possible so someone else may take your place,” says Mr. Prinzen. A sharp decline in the number of regular donors “Patients’ needs are still being met by the smallest donor base in a decade, but this is not sustainable. Patients across Canada need new and returning donors more than ever to give lifesaving blood and plasma. Right now is the time to book an appointment. Your donation could help bring someone home this winter season,” says Prinzen.  It is an essential service – that will be when and if you need blood. Your donations matter. They help people be there for their families, give back to their communities and improve the lives of others. When you donate, you help ensure Canada’s Lifeline is strong, and you shape someone’s tomorrow. Patients are waiting for new and returning donors to make all the difference today and throughout the winter months. Cancer patients, accident victims, and people with rare, life-threatening, chronic, and genetic conditions rely on blood, platelets, and plasma donations every day. Thousands more new plasma and blood donors are needed across the country. Book your appointment online at blood.ca, on the GiveBlood app, or by calling 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888-236-6283).
December 13th, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON
The following is a Letter to the Editor that appeared in the Hamilton Spectator today. It was written by Burlington resident Penny Hersh. THE INTEGRITY COMMISSION – JUST WHO DOES IT REPRESENT? There have been some conflict-of-interest issues that have arisen in Burlington concerning Councillor Kelvin Galbraith’s ownership of property that surrounds some of the proposed developments, including those that abut the MTSA. In Joan Little’s column she mentioned the possibility of a conflict-of-interest and as a result was asked to justify this- which she did. This was followed by a comment sent by Mayor Meed-Ward, Councillors Galbraith, Nisan, and Sharman refuting this and indicating that no conflict-of-interest had taken place. All this was done prior to receiving the report from the Integrity Commissioner. A complaint concerning this issue had been filed by a Burlington resident.  Burlington resident Penny Hersh After doing some research I discovered that the Integrity Commissioner is hired and on a contract that is paid for by the City. There does not seem to be any term limit and presently in Burlington this contract has been renewed. I learned that in some municipalities it is the region that hires the Integrity Commissioner. Personally, I feel that this is a better way of handling the hiring of a third party that may have to prepare a report that finds the city/councillor to be in error. The Integrity Commissions report is simply that. It falls to council to decide to accept the recommendations or to simply ignore them. Why bother going through this exercise at all? Can political influence play into this when Council members go public with defending a councillor prior to a report being issued? Where in this process are resident’s rights protected?
December 13th, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON
Intimate Partner Violence results when a relationship does not have the strength and resiliency to handle new and higher levels of stress. The rise in the cost of living and the changes taking place in the mortgage market are extremely hard to handle.
Men are physical, women use words that cut like razor blades. People get hurt, the police are called. Arrests take place. The Ontario government is investing over $2 million to help break the cycle of intimate partner violence and keep communities safe. The funding is being delivered through the Partner Assault Response (PAR) program and will support specialized group education and counselling for people who are mandated by the courts to receive it. “Our government is helping to relieve immediate financial and service pressures that are due, in part, to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as an increase in intimate partner violence cases across the province,” said Attorney General Doug Downey. “Addressing the root causes of violence is an important part of keeping victims safe and reducing the likelihood of further violence. By investing in the PAR program, we’re taking decisive action to ensure service providers can continue to support victims.” PAR is a court-mandated program that helps accused people understand intimate partner violence and learn strategies and skills to engage in healthy relationships. The program also supports victims and their families by reducing their isolation and helping them make informed decisions about their safety and relationships with the accused. “Today’s funding will help make our communities stronger and safer by addressing the issue of intimate partner violence and supporting victims and their families,” said Charmaine Williams, Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity. “This additional funding is welcome news for PAR providers across Ontario and is a positive step towards helping more clients access the program in a timely fashion,” said Vivien Green, Coordinator of Strategic Projects and Chair of the Board for Counterpoint Counselling and Educational Cooperative. “COVID-19 and the increase in intimate partner violence offences in Ontario has created new challenges in service delivery, but we are hopeful that this additional support will assist in our work to break the cycle of intimate partner violence.” The bigger problem is that when the violence has everyone in a court room trust is broken and is exceptionally hard to heal.
December 13th, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON
It would be nice if they could get it right the first time. Collin Gribbons., part of Bfast, the people who keep a close eye on all things transit advises us that:
“We have received confirmation from Burlington Transit that there will indeed be service on Dec. 25-26 and Dec. 31-Jan. 1. The service advisory applies only to the downtown terminal and specialized dispatch services. “If you check their website, you will find that they’ve revised the notice to state clearly that transit service will be provided throughout the holidays. “Catherine Baldelli, Director of Transit, told us they would provide a clarification.” The Gazette went with the notice the city sent out. The information on the Transit web site could have been clearer. To be clear – the service is the same. Holiday/Sunday Service schedules will be in place it is the location – Downtown terminals that will be closed and the Dispatch service that will not operate.
December 13th, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON UPDATE: The Hazardous Material (Asbestos) Abatement is included in the construction contract estimates included in the staff report. Timing will be at the beginning of the construction project along with demolition and removals.
Our tanks to the putz – the nom de plume created for a very smart Gazette reader who directed us to the 85 page report that was prepared for the Halton District School Board in November.
 The report is dated November 2022 They just didn’t want to tell the public and seemed loath to mouth the word asbestos. We will find time later today to read through the 85 pages and learn just what there is in the way of asbestos and learn as well if there were plans in place to remove the stuff and what the cost is and who will be picking up that cost. If this kind of stuff matters to you – the link is HERE:
December 14th, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON
iGaming, or online gambling, launched in Ontario, Canada, in April 2022. It opens the door for online gambling companies to apply for licenses from the province’s Alcohol and Gaming Commission. Compared to the heavily controlled gambling industry in the past, this is a huge shift for Canada. Except as expressly permitted by individual provinces, gambling is banned across Canada. Therefore, commercial gaming and betting can only be allowed if regulated by state or local governments. Accordingly, it must adhere to the local rules, varying from province to province, to create a casino in Canada. Provincial governments do not set up casinos; instead, they grant licenses to private enterprises to run online gaming sites and other associated services. For this reason, each province has its gaming authority in charge of licensing and regulating the industry inside its borders. Competition from internet gaming providers based outside of Canada makes an already difficult situation for Canadian businesses even more so. Companies based outside of Canada that offer gambling services to residents of that country are not required to register with the Canadian government. The combination of these challenges makes it difficult for gambling businesses to set up shop in Canada and make a profit there. While this is true, the country has relaxed some rules and streamlined several registration processes during the past few years. In 2021, for instance, the Canadian government will allow the sale of single-game wagers.  Businesses looking to enter the Canadian market must pay close attention to the rules and regulations. The Criminal Code What Are the Local Regulations? If you click on the links below, you can learn more about the laws in each province that govern which businesses are eligible to register to offer gaming services. Each link also details the registration process and any associated fines for noncompliance. Find a full list of the provincial organizations that handle such matters here. Alberta British Columbia  The legitimacy of established businesses – making sure they are fair. Manitoba New Brunswick Newfoundland and Labrador Province of Nova Scotia Ontario iGaming in Ontario  iGaming Ontario serves as a watchdog in the industry. iGaming Ontario has allowed third parties to offer their services to the general public, provided they first register with AGCO and sign a contract with the group. Introducing this new method into the gambling business will have far-reaching effects. Even so, Ontario cannot endorse the autonomy of every third party. As a result, iGaming Ontario serves as a watchdog in the industry. Prince Edward Island Quebec Saskatchewan Northwest, Nunavut, and Yukon  Casino’s in Canada respond rapidly to changes in provincial regulation. Current Developments Furthermore, in 2021, Canada passed Bill C-218, that legalized sports betting on a single event. As a result, the governments of British Columbia and Ontario respectively declared that they would launch online betting services. The gambling laws in Canada are constantly changing, making it essential for businesses to be abreast of the latest developments in each province. Consequently, a reliable Know Your Customer solution should be implemented. This will provide operators an edge over rivals by allowing them to respond rapidly to changes in provincial regulation.
December 12th, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON
We, unfortunately, hear frequently from different readers about “those people who are always whining” about issues in the city. The really naive tout that statement that city hall communications people come up with – Burlington being the greatest city in Canada to live in. We tend to forget those who have the courage of their convictions to step forward and speak “truth to power”. The first time I heard that phrase was when Marianne Meed Ward, running for the ward 2 seat in 2010, used it to describe what she was setting out to do. Now that she has power – the truth seems to be getting a rough ride.  Ralph Nader Does anyone remember what Ralph Nader did for the public ? He gets direct credit for the American enactment of the Freedom of Information Act, Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, Clean Water Act, Consumer Product Safety Act, and Whistleblower Protection Act. Do we remember Daniel Ellsberg, the man who gave who gave the Pentagon papers to the New York Times. They spent a small fortune publishing the information and fighting all the way to the US Supreme Court to argue that they had a right to publish the document. 
That courage to stand up and speak out is a hallmark of a civilized society. We wrote last week about that missing word – asbestos – the one that didn’t appear anywhere in the Staff report to city council on the“adaptive reuse of the Robert Bateman High School”. There is an impressive use of public relations speak. While many people knew about the existence of the asbestos in the Bateman High School not a single member of this freshly elected city council ever asked the question – what about that asbestos ? Reader reaction in the past few days has sparked spirited response from readers. They are all part of what some people call the “whiners”. We are lucky to have them. Some samples: Knows the rules: “Except, after purchase COB must follow Section 10 of O.Reg. 278/05 – Owner’s Responsibility before requesting tender or arranging work – requires that an owner shall have an investigation carried out in order to determine if materials, that are likely to be handled, dealt with, disturbed or removed during the alteration of a building, are asbestos-containing and, if so, whether the asbestos-containing material is friable or non-friable and to identify the type of asbestos in the material. Section 10 also requires that the owner shall have a report prepared detailing the investigation findings which is to be provided to any prospective constructor. “The absence of any mention of asbestos by COB, and the associated costs is nothing short of alarming.” Female – a parent: “It is unacceptable that staff and council don’t have an entire section on Asbestos in their reports with detailed plans and costs about its removal, and that this wasn’t discussed in detail in the public meetings. How can they even have agreed on a price for the building without such a specific plan? It’s laughable how they keep touting transparency. Oh right, we can give input (like that is ever listened to), without all the information, after the decisions have been made. “Are they planning to not remove it? I certainly hope not. Now is the time. Asbestos can be inadvertently exposed during even minor renovations or maintenance, which could happen any time. I’ve heard of this happening recently at another school. Dangerous to students and staff and costly to fix urgently. “Of course when you’re dealing with politicians who care so very much about photo ops at a shiny new building, I suppose they don’t want to talk about nasty negatives like dangerous and costly asbestos? They even tried to blame Stolte for telling the public about it back during the infamous complaint. Even our hired gun commissioner threw that out, saying this is common knowledge. Telling though. Will they get Kwab to speak for them – again? Can council members ever speak for themselves, and without spin? Kwab must be the busiest person at COB.” A regular delegator: Male, deep government experience: From the FAQ on Bateman “The City and HDSB are both fully aware of presence of asbestos and this has been factored into the due diligence process by the City and is also addressed in the negotiations between the parties relative to the purchase price.” “The “due diligence” didn’t include a plan , yet somehow it was factored into the purchase price.” We asked the Director of Communications and Engagement the following questions: Was asbestos used when the building was first constructed in 1969 Was it used during the 1973 addition and was it used in the 2003 addition. Was any asbestos ever removed from the building. Where in the financial parts of the Staff report is the cost and timing of the removal of any asbestos mentioned. He did say he would get back to us and he usually does. It would be useful if the information were available before the 13th – Oh – that’s tomorrow – not a hope.
December 12, 2022 BURLINGTON, ON
Schedule for transit services during the holidays. The city has gone back to the old schedule where you couldn’t go anywhere by transit on Christmas Day. This isn’t what most people understood as inclusive.
 The people who use transit for the most part don’t have a choice. They will have a tough time visiting with family.
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He was at first swamped – learning lines for a play that opens on Friday.
A relationship that was in a bit of trouble finds itself unable to cope – anger rises and people lash out.
The Board of Education knew all along what they were buying and the members of Council knew as well.
