 By Pepper Parr
September 24th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Great to know that Premier Doug Ford is out there working for us.
He just wants to get things done. On reports that the government is eyeing 24/7 construction and “customized” environmental assessments to build Highway 413 he said: “We’ve been working on this environmental assessment since before Moses…There’s hundreds of thousands of people stuck in their cars, backed up to Timbuktu, and you’re worried about a grasshopper jumping across the highway…Let’s build the damn highway.”
 Proposed route for Hwy 413 – Those light blue lines are creeks and waterways – the place that grasshoppers jump out of. Ford didn’t do much better when he commented on the homeless encampments saying: “You know what’s the best way to get people out of the encampments, to get out of homeless?…If you’re healthy, get off your A-S-S and start working like everyone else.”
Street nurse Cathy Crowe took issue with that. “My experience has been that when a politician speaks like this with disregard and disrespect it fuels hate and hate crimes towards the population he is disparaging. The fact so many people clapped at his statement is appalling”.
 By Pepper Parr
September 24th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
What do you do when your council member holds a meeting in which they Mayor takes part to talk about the forth coming budget and they don’t tell you the truth ?
 Salaries and wages along have increased bu just shy of $10 million They fudge the numbers to make the budget increase look lower than it actually is – AND they are talking to you about expenses the city faces when they know that there is more information coming that will increase the amount of money the City has to spend.
In this instance Council is waiting for a report from Staff on what is going to be required to handle future flooding – similar to what took place early in July.
What do you do when the Mayor says the first budget meeting she gave was great – a lot of people were in the room – there were less than 25 people – that did not include the ten or so that included Council members and staff.
 Budget meeting March 2011 – this was one of 11 tables. Citizens will show up for a meeting if you make it interesting enough and promote it effectively. The Mayor said meetings like this had never taken place before – not true.
What do you do with people like that? Return them to office in October of 2026?
The people who pay the taxes have a lot of hard thinking to do about the way the city is governed. There are members of the current City Council who do not know what their jobs are – check out what Councillors Galbraith and Nisan had to say about a major development. Link to that embarrassment is below.
The sky was the limit for these two. The developer who provided the script loved it
The one that got me was when the Mayor said they were not holding Council meetings in the evenings so that families would have more time to be together. The evenings are the only time most people have to delegate at a Council meeting – have you ever heard anything as cheeky. The disrespect for the people who voted for Meed Ward is atrocious – yet they put up with it and take every opportunity there is to have their picture taken with her.
This is what can happen in Burlington when the voters want to see a change. Will we see something like this in 2026?
By Staff
September 24th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
City hall has announced that work to review the composition of Burlington City Council and the city’s ward boundaries is set to begin this fall. The review will assess how well the current council size and structure, and ward boundaries work for our community.
 All residents and Burlington business owners are invited to share their input through a series of upcoming public engagements. Information about the review and opportunities to be involved are available on getinvolvedburlington.ca/boundaryreview.
What is a council composition and ward boundary review?
A council composition and ward boundary review helps plan for the future. The reviews ensure voters are represented equally in the local government decision-making process.
The last ward boundary review for Burlington was done in 2005, when the city’s population was 139,000. Since this time, the city’s population has grown to approximately 186,948 (2021 Census). Over the next 25 years, the city will continue to grow. Approximately 265,000 people are expected to call Burlington home by 2051.
- Council composition reviews look at the size and structure of City Council. They determine if the current number of councillors and the coverage they provide are adequate for our community.
- Ward boundary reviews are typically undertaken every three to four election cycles (12 – 16 years) to look at the boundaries of a city’s wards. Factors, such as population, future growth, geography, community history, community interests, and minority representation, are also considered in the division of wards.
Public engagement and Council decisions
Public engagement and Council decisions will happen in two phases for the review. In phase one, residents will be asked for their input on council composition. Input gathered from the community will be used to help inform a report that will go to City Council for their consideration in December 2024.
In phase two, public engagement will focus on ward boundaries. This phase is anticipated to start early in 2025. More information will be shared on getinvolvedburlington.ca/boundaryreview later this year.
Council composition public engagement opportunities
- Monday, Oct. 7 – 9:30 a.m., presentation at Committee of the Whole, Council Chambers, 426 Brant St.
- Monday, Oct. 7 – 7 to 8:30 p.m., Tansley Woods Community Centre, 1996 Itabashi Way
- Wednesday, Oct. 9 – 7 to 8:30 p.m., Central Arena, 519 Drury Ln
- Thursday, Oct. 10 – 1:30 to 3 p.m., Mountainside Recreation Centre, 2205 Mt. Forest Dr.
- Tuesday, Oct. 15 – 7 to 8:30 p.m., virtual public meeting
- Wednesday, Oct. 23 – 7 to 8:30 p.m., Haber Community Centre, 3040 Tim Dobbie Dr.
Residents and business owners can also share their feedback through the council composition and ward boundary survey, available on getinvolvedburlington.ca/boundaryreview starting Oct.7.
 By Lucy Roberts
September 23rd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
 It takes more than this to win a hand – but it it certainly a good start. Intermediate means you know a thing or two about poker, and to know a thing or two about poker is an achievement. It’s a strategy game that will drain the life from you if you find yourself in one that’s intense enough. To outsider non-poker players, poker is one of the most complex games. All the chips, cards, bluffing, and generally not having a clue what to do.
But if you know how to play, you should consider intermediate poker strategies worth trying. Read on to find out more.
Play Position Aggressively
Position in the game of poker is essential. Especially when in a later position, like on the button or in close range, a player has more information than the players that have already acted. An intermediate player should play to the restriction of their position and try to get as much out of it as they can.
For example, if you happen to be in the back seat of the action and notice that most players have folded, now is the time to make your move. You are less likely to be called when you throw in a raise because you can make this play with a broader range. The late position also allows you to see everyone’s reaction before you make a move. It is tactically better to be aggressive when in this position.
Semi-Bluffing
Semi-bluffing is an intermediate tactic. Semi-bluffing is when there’s a settlement that is still untenable and may happen with a bet or raise in the possibility of the hand developing. It’s a calculated gamble because it is not only the outcome this time that depends on luck.
 Is there a bluff taking place? Poker is a game of strategy and tremendous skill. As an illustration, assume you have suited 8 and 9 together with a flop that presents an opportunity for the formation of the straight. This hand doesn’t look the best, but several cards can enhance it and make it stronger. By betting or raising here, it becomes easy to make the opponent sacrifice some of the weaker hands to play along with you to allow you to make the draw.
Semi-bluffing causes a lot of confusion for your opponents.
The Continuation Bet (C-Bet)
A continuation Bet (C-bet) is a tactic in which you make a pot bet on the flop despite the board being static because you have already raised before the flop.
This is a tactic that advanced players like to use, and getting a grasp of it helps intermediate-level players have the upper hand.
Once you have decided to raise the pre-flop, you can presume your opponents are already of the view that your hand is probably strong. So once there is a C-bet on the turn, it makes sense for the opponent who called the bet at the flop to think that the board has helped the player to improve the hand, even though this was not the case. Naturally, it becomes very difficult for the opponents, especially when they don’t connect on the flop.
It seems complicated, but you’re an intermediate, now.
Hand Reading and Player Profiling
 What is behind those cards – and what is behind those eyes ? Hand reading and player profiling belong more to the advanced stages of play and involve estimating the range that your opponents hold based on their visible actions in the same throne as their actions before that.
If you are profiling a player, pay attention to the statistics regarding the frequency of bets raised or folds made in a particular situation. Are they loose or tight? Do they bluff a lot, or are they more of a straightforward player? This kind of consideration will let you tell the strength of your opponent’s hand, whether strong or weak.
Hand reading involves a lot of extra details, and the player has to be very keen on the betting patterns and the board.
Playing Poker at Canadian Online Casinos
Playing poker at online casinos is so much fun – you’ll find so many live poker games at online casinos in Canada. There are different types of poker available in Canadian online casinos, including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and 7-Card Stud, so every player will find at least one they like. These casinos are licensed to operate, which means there’s decent accountability in terms of security and fair play, ideal for players who enjoy poker.
Canadian online casinos that include poker in their offerings also play tournaments with several buy-ins ranging from the low-end to the upper-high-model tournaments.
Do you think you’re ready to be an intermediate poker player? There’s so much strategy involved, whether you’re a good player or not. The trick is what strategy to use and when to apply it. Fear not, that’s something you’ll learn as you go along and get used to the different playing styles. Most of the time, it depends on who you’re playing against and how good they are. Sometimes, you don’t need to use intermediate tactics.
 By Staff
September 23, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Residents Action Group (BRAG) has begun to drill down into the budget numbers that have been made public. While the analysis is yet to be completed – a few pieces of information stand out.
The highlighted salary and benefits line shown on page 9 of the summary budget as something that the city, in fairness to taxpayers, should expand on. We can see that salaries and benefits will increase 6.6%.
Why is there a 6.6% increase for Salaries, wages and Benefits? Statistics Canada has the CPI (Consumer Price Index) increasing 2.5% in July 2024 (year over year) with all indicators pointing towards further cooling of inflation in 2025.
What we can’t see is how much of this budget increase is for raises to current employees and how much of this budget increase is for new hires.
With low assessment and population growth, it’s difficult to understand why the city is hiring; residents are left with the assumption that salaries and benefits for existing employees are increasing by 6.6%.
Looking back to the 2023 budget, page 468 shows a 12.3% increase to the “Human Resources” expenditure line.
Looking back to the 2024 budget, page 728 shows a 10% increase to the “Human Resources” expenditure line.
“These increases are simply jaw dropping “said BRAG President Eric Stern.
Much more to come on this file.
 By Pepper Parr
September 23rd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The weather worked; the crowds were good – actually very good. There were more than 130 tents set up either side of Appleby Line from Fairview all the way down to New Street.
 Teen Tour Band getting ready to march south the New Street. Then they marched back to Fairview. The Teen Tour Marching Band with 130 of its members turning out with Army cadets clearing the roadway.
The St. John Ambulance people has a team on site – nothing of any concern at that level.
We did see Councillor Sharman marching along behind the Teen Tour band.
People were out having fun. Lots of food – maybe half a dozen food trucks serving the public. A lot of police officers walking about, all kinds of police cars at the intersections.
Noticed a lot of Fathers pushing the strollers.
The two main line political parties had tents staffed with people handing out literature.
 Connor Fraser chatting up a woman explaining that he wants to represent Burlington in the next federal election.  Emily Brown who also wants to represent Burlington in the House of Commons. Two of the three people seeking the provincial nomination were out chatting people up.
There were a couple of bands – the open guitar cases set out in front had a disappointing amount of paper money in them
Councillor Sharman has to be given credit for building this event from what was – how do we put this – something that had some promise.
It has become something people look forward to – a nice way to spend time bumping into people you haven’t see for some time.
Margot Shuttle worth pulled me into a dance with her; Emily Brown did not pull me into a dance with her.
Alan Harrington mentioned that he had just returned from a trip to Iceland – and mentioned that he had taken his second flight out of the Warplane Museum – this time in a gypsy moth.
 A Burlington Teen Tour Band member hydrating after the march while a young boy sits on a piece of public art.  The weather was fine and everyone seemed to have a place to go. Sharman has managed to build an event – something none of the others have yet managed to. Sharman give his team of volunteers all the credit.
One of the questions that crops up for the Gazette is – how is this event funded. I know the city puts some money into it – I couldn’t help but get the sense that there was quite a bit of revenue from the retailers who had tents set up. The Food and beverage people did well.
 The crowds were great. More than 30 tents lined the street where you could buy pop corn, a hot dog, a Canada sweater and get advice from a number of health services who had tents. And so did the community – kudos to Paul Sharman and his volunteers for holding the event
 By Pepper Parr
September 22, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
A 22-year veteran of the Canadian Forces with first hand experience relayed to security clearances is one of the people who has signed the change.org petition asking that it be made mandatory people with access to sensitive information are trustworthy and pose no risk to our national security.
 Petitioner said he/she finds it “astounding that Pierre Poilievre, an influential figure in our nation, has not yet completed this crucial obtaining a security clearance. The writer said he/she finds it “astounding that Pierre Poilievre, an influential figure in our nation, has not yet completed this crucial step.”
“As citizens, our safety is dependent on the proper screening of those in positions of power. A security clearance checks a person’s background, verifying their criminal record, personal history, and moral character. It is a matter of trust, not only for our government but for our citizens. Therefore, we find it necessary that Pierre Poilievre be subjected to the same stringent standard as the rest of us.
“No one is beyond reproach and everyone should be held to the same level of accountability – especially persons in positions that directly affect the security of our nation. We must maintain the integrity of our security system and ensure that all people in positions of power are thoroughly vetted.
“Let’ stand together for a transparent and fair process, and demand Pierre Poilievre to undergo a security clearance. It is not just about him, it is about the safety and security of us all – our nation. “
Our first question to the petition writer is: Who did you ask if Poilievre if has a security clearance ? And if you asked – did they give you a reason?
We will get back to you on this one
Change.org is a web site where petitions are placed and people are invited to do the click click thing and join those who already signed. So far there are 2650 signatures on this petition – they are aiming for 5000.
It’s a good question: Has Pierre Poilievre ensured that he has been cleared to see sensitive documents ?
We will wait until we have an answer from Poilievre communications people before passing along a link on this one.
 By Pepper Parr
September 22nd, 2024
BURLINGTON. ON
 Taken December 24, 1968, during the Apollo 8 mission; described as “the most influential environmental photograph ever taken”.
Do you remember the first time you saw this picture. It was a huge step in the way people saw the planet we live on. Since that picture first appeared we have sent people to the moon and are getting ready to send people to Mars.
Before I rolled into my day – even before a cup of coffee – I read this in the Washington Post:
In all likelihood, in the next 25 years, we’ll find evidence of life on another planet. I’m willing to say this because I’m not a scientist and I don’t work in media relations for NASA. But all evidence points to us getting closer, every year, to identifying moons in our solar system, or exoplanets beyond it, that can sustain life. And if we don’t find conditions for life on the moons near us, we’ll find it on exoplanets — that is, planets outside our solar system. Within the next few decades, we’ll likely find an exoplanet that has an atmosphere, that has water, that has carbon and methane and oxygen. Or some combination of those things.
How will we react when the scientists announce there is life on another planet? Will peace, love and light prevail – or will we look for a way to invade and take over – another effort at colonization. Or have we earned something.
By Staff
September 22nd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The United Way Halton & Hamilton has announced their fund raising target for 2024-25 – $12.5 million.
The campaign kicked off on Saturday with the Annual UPS Plane Pull, a family-friendly event that brought together teams of 15 participants, who had one opportunity to pull a 200,000-pound plane fifty feet along the tarmac at the Hamilton International Airport in the shortest amount of time.
 Target this year was the same as last year. The campaign got off to a solid start – raised an impressive $217,000+
The 2024-25 target is the same as the historic achievement of raising
Last year, United Way supported over 220,568 individuals and families through 117 different programs across Burlington, Halton Hills, Hamilton, Milton, and Oakville. These essential services, ranging from food security and mental health support to youth mentorship and shelter services.
Brad Park, President & CEO of United Way Halton & Hamilton, expressed his enthusiasm and commitment to this year’s campaign:
“I’ve never felt more energized to support our community. Coming off the success of last year’s campaign, I’m ready to turn all of that compassion into ACTION and help build a stronger network of support for our community. The theme for this year, United in ACTION, is all about standing together and making a tangible difference in the lives of people in need. United Way drives action in so many ways. Beyond providing critical funding to our agency partners, we’re deeply involved in capacity-building initiatives, participating in roundtables for important community discussions, conducting research, and collaborating with all levels of government.”
 The Annual Plane Pull raised $217,000 – strong start. Local Love Community Match: Amplifying Your Impact
The United Way will continue with the Local Love Community Match. For every $4 contribution, an additional
$1 will be added to the donation by a group of generous community members and organizations.
Claude DeMone, the 2024-2025 Campaign Chair, expressed his confidence in the community’s ability to rally together:
“I am excited to help drive action in our community and continue supporting those who need it the most. I have no doubt that $12.5 million is an achievable goal because I’ve seen firsthand just how generous our community can be. Together, we can protect and expand the critical network of supporting programs that United Way funds, ensuring that no one in our community is left behind.”
As United Way Halton & Hamilton embarks on this year’s campaign, the organization calls on all members of the community to join in this united effort. Whether through financial support, volunteering, or spreading the word, every action counts in building a brighter future for everyone.
By Pepper Parr
September 20th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
 Bonnie Crombie: She was treated like royalty during the lead up to the selection of a new party leader.
Sometime yesterday Bonnie Crombie headed for London Ontario for a Provincial Liberal Party meeting.
Some wonder if she was looking forward to the event since Bonnie won the leadership of the Ontario Liberal Party.
The party executive and the eight members who were elected haven’t managed to get much done. While the Liberals were second in the popular vote, it is the New Democrats who are the Opposition and it is those New Democrats who have kept nipping (biting is perhaps the better word) at Doug Ford’s heels.
 Marit Stiles: Tough – a fighter. The public has yet to take to the idea that she could be a Premier. Marit Stiles has done a great job as Leader of the Opposition but the NDP have yet to capture the public’s imagination and just don’t see them becoming a government. The Bob Rae experience has yet to fade completely.
Expect the Liberal party executive and the MPP’s to have a lot of questions to ask: like – where have you been lately?
We sent the pay cheque to you (reported to be $185,000 + expenses.) but we haven’t seen much of you meeting with Liberals across the province and preparing for the next provincial election.
It’s not as if Crombie needs the money – what some are wondering is – does she really want the job.
During the lead up to the campaign for a new provincial Liberal leader she was all over the place – at times covering two – three meetings with community groups in an evening.
You couldn’t stop her. Now – it’s as if the air has gone out of the tires and the wheels don’t go around all that well.
It will be an interesting meeting.
 By Staff
September 21st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The non profit sector continues to struggle with HR (Human Resource) issues, sustainable funding, evaluation, equity and inclusion issues, just to name a few.
CDH -Community Development Halton is facilitating a workshop on highlights from a sector wide survey on HR problems.
 Join us for a presentation by Ontario Nonprofit Network (ONN), featuring Pamela Uppal-Sandhu, Director of Policy, who will share highlights from their annual sector-wide survey, and shine a spotlight on regional data for Halton. This survey gathers data and stories from across the province to paint an accurate picture of our shared struggles and opportunities for progress. Following a Q & A with Pamela, we will spend time in small group conversations about what the data means for Halton, sense making for collaboration, advocacy and action.
By Pepper Parr
September 21st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
We now know a little bit more about how many homes are designated as Heritage properties and how much the city provides in the way of tax rebates.
 A Burlington property designated as Heritage. The City Communications department tells us that “On average, about 55 designated properties receive a heritage rebate annually. Currently there are 53 homes receiving the rebate.
The heritage rebate program is available to eligible residential and commercial designated heritage properties.
The program budget is $60,000 and comes out of the Corporate Expenditures.
That $60 thousand is not money the city actually spends – it is money that the city doesn’t get from the property owner – it is treated as a rebate on the tax bill. Some Heritage property owners choose to pay their taxes in full and at the end of the fiscal year get a refund from the city.
Related news content:
Mayor’s house is a Heritage property
By Staff
September 21st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington MP Karina Gould had a full day on Thursday.
 Karina Gould speaking in the House of Commons As House Leader for the government Gould stood on four occasion to go after the Opposition Conservative party/
Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from the Bloc Québécois for asking a real question here in the House.
It is important to make sure that questions refer to the work of government.
The government is here to work for Canadians and to demonstrate what we do every day to serve Canadians.
It would be nice if all members of the House could keep that in mind.
She later spoke about Carbon Pricing
Mr. Speaker, I do not think we should be politicizing pensions, but if the member opposite or his leader wants to talk about the size of their pensions, they should talk about that. At a time when they will be getting millions of dollars in government pensions, they also look to cut the pensions of everyday Canadians. We are here to support seniors no matter where they worked, not just parliamentarians with their pensions.
Adding later:
 Gould: “There is a diversity of views in the country.” Mr. Speaker, I guess the member opposite will only get half a gold star from his leader today, because all he did was announce the slogans, but he forgot to attack the other political parties.
When it comes to eminent Canadians who do not share the vision of the Conservatives, they attack them. There is a diversity of views in the country and whether we agree with people or not, it does not mean we should denigrate their character.
The Conservatives should be ashamed of how they treat their fellow Canadians.
Gould had more to say:
Mr. Speaker, it is the same thing with the Conservatives.
There are Canadians who want to contribute to this country, but they do not share the Conservatives’ partisan vision. What do the Conservatives do? They attack them. That is not respectful. That is not appropriate in our democracy. It is possible to disagree without attacking Canadians.
Gould wasn’t finished yet:
 Gould argues that Leader of the Opposition, Conservative party leader Pierre Poilievre “has a calculated $2 million pension and lives in government housing.” Mr. Speaker, if that member wants to talk about entitlements, he should talk to the leader of his party who has a calculated $2 million pension and who lives in government housing, while at the same time looking to cut the pensions of Canadians, raise the age of retirement from 65 to 67, and cut the Canada child benefit and other benefits that help Canadians.
If that member wants to talk to entitlements, he should look in the mirror first.
Things are getting feisty.
By Sarah Ovesen
September 20th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Digital transactions have become a cornerstone of modern commerce, offering consumers speed, convenience, and security. From paying bills to purchasing goods, digital payments simplify the exchange of funds across various platforms. However, as with any technological advancement, digital transactions come with risks. Understanding these benefits and risks helps consumers navigate this landscape securely.
 The primary advantage of digital transactions is convenience use two factor verification to make it safe. Benefits of Digital Transactions
The following are some of the many benefits that come with digital transactions:
1. Convenience and Speed
The primary advantage of digital transactions is convenience. Consumers can now make purchases and payments from anywhere at any time. Whether using a smartphone, tablet, or computer, the ease of digital payments eliminates the need for cash and physical interaction. Digital wallets, such as Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and PayPal, allow users to store and access payment information seamlessly. Additionally, features like recurring payments make managing bills and subscriptions hassle-free.
2. Enhanced Security
 Two factor authorization is there to protect you. When used correctly, digital transactions can be more secure than traditional payment methods. Many digital payment platforms implement advanced encryption and tokenization technologies, ensuring that sensitive information, such as credit card numbers, is not exposed during transactions.
Features like two-factor authentication (2FA) and biometric verification (such as fingerprint recognition) add extra layers of security, making it harder for unauthorized individuals to access accounts. Cryptocurrencies have also become popular, particularly in the online gaming industry, with customers praising the speed and cross-border functionality. Just as important is the security it affords them, with top-rated crypto casinos offering security, fairness, fast payouts, and reasonable wagering requirements (source: https://canadacryptocasino.com/). This focus on security and user trust is vital in the growing digital payment space, particularly for consumers seeking reliable platforms.
3. Global Access and Inclusion
Digital transactions have made cross-border payments more accessible and affordable. Consumers can now make international purchases or send money overseas without the hefty fees traditionally associated with wire transfers or currency exchanges. Services like PayPal, TransferWise (now Wise), and cryptocurrency payments have streamlined the process, offering consumers a broader range of financial opportunities. For example, cryptocurrency has become a popular choice for online transactions, especially for those who value privacy and low transaction fees. The growing number of platforms accepting digital currencies allows consumers to engage with a global market.
Risks of Digital Transactions
Below are some risks associated with digital transactions worth mentioning:
1. Fraud and Cybercrime
 Employing strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication reduces the risk of unauthorized access. Despite the security advantages, digital transactions are not immune to risks. Phishing attacks, identity theft, and fraudulent websites are common issues consumers face when transacting online. Cybercriminals use sophisticated methods to trick users into providing sensitive information, which can then be exploited.
To protect against fraud, consumers must only use trusted platforms, verify the legitimacy of websites, and avoid sharing financial details over unsecured networks. Employing strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication also greatly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
2. Privacy Concerns
Digital transactions generate large amounts of data, including purchase history and personal information. Some companies may use this data for targeted advertising or share it with third parties, raising significant privacy concerns for consumers. Data breaches have also become more common, exposing sensitive consumer information to potential misuse.
To mitigate these risks, consumers should carefully review the privacy policies of the platforms they use and opt out of unnecessary data sharing whenever possible. Using platforms that prioritize data security and transparency can also reduce the likelihood of personal information being compromised.
3. Technology Dependence
As convenient as digital transactions are, they rely heavily on technology. System failures, power outages, or cyberattacks can disrupt access to funds, leaving consumers unable to complete transactions. Additionally, users without access to reliable internet or digital tools may find themselves excluded from the digital economy.
Consumers should ensure they have alternative payment methods available, such as physical cards or cash, in case of technological failures. Diversifying payment options provides greater flexibility in the event of system outages or other unforeseen issues.
Practical Tips for Consumers
Navigating the world of digital transactions securely requires careful consideration. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use Strong Passwords: Ensure passwords are unique and complex, and change them regularly. Password managers can help maintain security without sacrificing convenience.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Activate Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) whenever available to add an additional layer of security to your accounts.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Transactions: Use secure networks when conducting online payments to minimize the risk of data interception.
- Monitor Accounts Regularly: Track your digital transactions and report any suspicious activity to your bank or payment provider immediately.
 Numerous benefits, including convenience, enhanced security, and global accessibility. Conclusion
Digital transactions offer numerous benefits, including convenience, enhanced security, and global accessibility. However, they also come with risks such as fraud, privacy concerns, and technology dependence. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, consumers can navigate the digital payment landscape safely and securely.
By Staff
September 20th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
On Saturday, September 21 and Sunday, September 22, Lakeshore West rail service will be temporarily modified to accommodate critical track work that will bring faster, more frequent service across the network.
 GO service modified this weekend. Train service between Union Station and West Harbour GO will operate on an hourly schedule.
- GO Bus Route 12, 15 and 18 connections may be adjusted.
- Please check the schedule before your trip.
For those who normally connect from Lakeshore East service to continue travelling west, not all trains will continue past Union Station.
Regular service will resume on Monday, September 23.
Riders can transfer for free with One Fare between GO Transit and TTC. Customers are encouraged to use gotransit.com or triplinx.ca to plan their trips. You can also check the GO Transit Service Updates page for real-time details.
By Pepper Parr
September 20th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Canada is in the process of accepting tens of thousands of immigrants.
That is a decision the federal government has made.
 Prime Minister Justin Trudeau greeting Syrian refugees at the airport and handing out winter coats for the children. The Prime Minister has in the past been at the airport with winter coats for people who were not prepared for the cold Canadian winters.
The federal government has argued that we need these immigrants to become part of our work force.
And so they arrive and as Canadians we welcome them.
Well not all of you are welcoming them but they are here and they want to have an impact; they want influence and they have every right to want an impact and have influence.
 Shaheryar Mian is seeking the nomination as the Conservative candidate for Burlington. This short video – less than a minute – has name and his father at a Muslim event. The speaker asks that voters consider Shaheryar Mian as a candidate. He can be seen on the right of the video with his father, a successful Burlington developer on the left.
The fear I have is that I think we are beginning to see new levels of Xenophobia – a dislike of or prejudice against people from other countries.
We have seen this before and it is ugly. We are seeing just this now south of our border.
By Pepper Parr
September 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
We were particularly interested in the data that was collected on the ‘dot boards’ that were spread around the space in front of the grandstand at Central Park during the Food for Feedback event.
We had some question which we sent to the city’s Communications department:
How much will the city be paying the several Food Truck Vendors that were on site for the Food for Feedback event – which by the way we thought was well run.
Thank you. We are very happy with the event. Food for Feedback is a community engagement event endorsed by Council, attended by residents from all six wards, and intended to provide important feedback on City initiatives. As such, it is supported by the City’s operational budget. For more information about the City’s investments in community initiatives, please see Burlington’s budget book later this fall.
 Different colours didn’t mean a damn thing. Who was the staff member who handled the event?
It was a team effort by the Engagement and Volunteer Team.
What were the different coloured dots on the dot board intended to convey?
The colours didn’t represent anything. They were all worth one vote.
Which city department will review the data (that is what did the dots say about a particular service) and would it be correct to say that the same people will do the analysis.
Each of the 35 projects/departments who participated is responsible for their own reporting. Once their data is ready, it will be shared online at www.getinvolvedburlington.ca, which is our normal process. Some booths weren’t specific projects but departments looking for feedback to improve services, programs, etc.
Are visuals of each of the dot boards set up available?
No. Each department/project is compiling the data.
The CAO gas (think they meant ‘has’) said that media can expect a response in 48 hours; would that position apply to these questions. We always do our best to meet accredited media’s deadlines and will work with media if we cannot meet their timelines.
Not really very detailed answers are they?
By Pepper Parr
September 19, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
City hall released the Draft Summary of the proposed 2025 budget document. It’s 28 pages long – loads of data.
 The red boxed line is what Burlington is spending. The city misleads when they include all three levels – the one that counts is the city number – that is how much more the city wants from you this year over last year. The City collects tax for the Boards of Education, the Regional government (which includes the police services) and the city.
The Draft Summary of the proposed 2025 budget was released just a little after 2:30 this afternoon.
They mislead the public when they use that 5.25% number.
What really matters to the citizens of Burlington is the amount that the city portion has increased. THAT amount is 8.04% and is expected to increase when the public learns how much more money is going to be needed for flood prevention issues.
That information won’t be available until sometime mid October.
Link to the document is HERE
By Pepper Parr
September 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
 Jagmeet Singh The buzz buzz over a possible federal election started with the unexpected announcement from the New Democrats that they were ‘tearing up” the Confidence and Supply agreement they had with the Liberal government. Jagmeet Singh’s office didn’t send notice of their decision to the Prime Minister’s office – who learned of the decision through social media. Class act – right?
The political class could see an election coming any day now.
Then the election in LaSalle-Émard-Verdun, earlier this week which the Liberals couldn’t afford to lose – but did – got a break when the Bloc Québécois won the seat.
That added some lustre to their image and led Bloc Leader Yves-François Blanchet to the point where he said his party would support the Liberal government.
 Interesting that a political party committed to taking Quebec out of Confederation is now the political party saving the current Liberal government.
For the Bloc this was an opportunity to suck millions out of the treasury – they can, and probably will ask for anything they can think of – and have a better than even chance of getting what they asked for.
All the federal election excitement suddenly died down. The Bloc will support the Liberals until they call an election for October of 2025.
And – you can almost bet that the Liberals will win that election but not with a majority government. This time it will be a genuine minority government – which tends to serve the public best.
 Justin Trudeau – the kid got lucky. Having “won” the election Justin Trudeau will be able to resign as Prime Minister and the Liberals will be in a position to hold a leadership convention and have a number of years to rebuild the party with a new crop of Cabinet Ministers.
What will be next for Justin Trudeau – expect him to re-marry.
That’s the way I see it.
Hopefully that will bring the Conservative Party to the point where they “axe” Pierre Poilievre, their leader and find someone more in tune with Canadian values to serve as an Opposition and perhaps someday form a government.
Salt with Pepper is an opinion column reflecting the observations and musings of the publisher of the Gazette, an on-line newspaper that is in its 8th year as a news source in Burlington and is a member of the National Newsmedia Council.
By Staff
September 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Applications to the Halton Region Community Investment Fund for 2025 are now open.
Funding is available for non-profit human service programs and initiatives that enhance the health, safety and well-being of Halton residents.
 Regional government offices are located in Oakville  Regional Chair Gary Carr “Keeping our communities safe, healthy and thriving is one of our top priorities,” said Halton Regional Chair Gary Carr. “Since 2012, we have invested $30.2 million in non-profit organizations who are making a difference each and every day.
Funding is available in two categories. Organizations that meet eligibility criteria may submit one application in each funding category.
Category One:
Provides up to one year of funding, for a maximum of $30,000. Non-profit, charitable or unincorporated community organizations can apply for short-term, small capital and/or innovative projects.
Category Two:
Provides up to three years of funding to registered charities for programs and initiatives.
Applications must be submitted by Friday, November 1, 2024 at 2 p.m.
The Region is holding information sessions for all prospective applicants:
- Thursday, September 26, from 9:30 – 11 a.m. (Virtual)
- Tuesday, October 1, from 1:30 – 3 p.m. (Virtual)
- Wednesday, October 2, from 6 – 7:30 p.m. Milton Sports Centre, 605 Santa Maria Blvd., Milton
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