 By Pepper Parr
February 6th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
We are quick to point out when council members and City staff are less than accountable or transparent. That’s what responsible media do – we are not in business to make friends.
Some nice news.
The Audio visual people have added an very useful feature to the web casts.
Knowing what is being discussed during a web cast is useful.
 Staff switches name plates while the A/V people reset the software being used. What is really useful is know where they are in terms of the time line s0 that if you want to share the web cast with friends or when you are making comments – with this information you can be very precise.
Kudos whoever came up with this idea. If Chad McDonald,the Executive Director of Information Technology, is handing out bonuses for above and beyond service – remember these guys.
 By Pepper Parr
February 6th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The service the city used to record Council meetings has never worked particularly well.
With the new approach – every Meeting is a Committee of the Whole (CoW) meeting – except for Council meetings where recommendations are made final and bylaws passed.
With the CoW approach each of the former Standing Committees is held within the format of a CoW.
With this format the A/V people have to “reset” the room which when you watch it taking place is almost comical.
Rather than look a little silly the Chair, that being the Mayor, calls for a 10 minute break while the audio visual people do what they can with what they have.
The issue is not the A/V staff. They do their best with what they have.
The issue is, partly, the format the Mayor has chosen and the software the A/V people have to work with.
As we were setting up this morning prepare to watch the web cast and use our recording software, the following appeared on the screen.
 Councillor Stolte had to be at City Hal bright and early to work with the A/V staff to male the software work properly. We at least know that the A/V people are doing their best to make do with what they have.
We would love to tell you more about what the problems are but the Communications people won’t let us talk to the A/V team.
Only in Burlington.
 By Pepper Parr
February 6th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Good morning Committee of the Whole and Mayor Meed Ward.
It’s a pleasure to be here. I am representing the Burlington for Accessible Sustainable Transit. We’ve been working for 12 years now on on trying to press for improvements in transit throughout the throughout the city. But today, we want to raise some concerns, specific concerns, about the Robert Bateman Community Centre development and in particular.
 Doug Brown, a long time leader of Bfast. We are concerned that the report is looking at parking in isolation from the overall impact of the project on transportation. It’s our opinion that the report is not aligned with the Official Plan which requires an increase in transit modal share. from the current 3% to 15%. There’s an implicit assumption that students attending the Brock University satellite campus, and other community centre users will all drive and park. It is our view that the city needs to develop a strategy to encourage students and community centre users to get to Bateman by transit or active transportation. So like to just elaborate on that. The report reports focus on parking and its lack of any measures to increase transit negative transportation modes is counter to our official plan or climate action plan and our integrated mobility plan.
Among the measures that should be assessed by staff is the charging and implementation of a transit pass for students over the brook sadly campus such as exist at McMaster University. The reports focus on parking and its lack of any measures to increase transit and active transportation modes is counter to the city’s official plan. What is needed is a transportation study to develop a plan. Planning for only car access will result in more car use and result in more emissions and congestion.
I’d like to refer staff and council to some of the extensive research on parking requirements in a classic book, the High Cost of Free Parking by Donald Shoup
 I have a copy here which you can see is an I’ve been making extensive use of it’s a real compendium of, of evidence based studies and it’s published by the American Planning Association so it is widely accepted and closer to home. I’d like to point out the findings of Matt Pender has an engineer who works on transportation planning, and he did a study while it’s I think 10 years ago of the impact of paid parking on transit use in central and suburban Hamilton and the results are really quite compelling. So for commuters that had free parking network, transit use was 5%. For those that did not have free parking network, transit use was 23%. So almost a five fold increase in transit use, there’d be a very effective measure to reduce parking requirements and traffic congestion. Others have request the same analysis. And as a final comment, I’d like to express my disappointment in the engagement process.
I had planned to provide these comments at a public meeting held at Tansley Woods many months ago, but was stopped by the facilitator who said that they would only take the comments regarding the building itself. I asked when I could make comments and did not get a clear reply. This is an odd engagement. This summarizes my current comments. I’d be glad to respond to any questions.
Mayor Meed Ward then said: “Thank you very much just looking to the board and I’m not seeing any questions at the moment. So thank you very much for joining us.
It looked as if there were not going to be any questions until Councillor Sharman said: One of the last things that you said actually sparked my question so I appreciate your patience. One of the themes that I’ve heard has been around being able to only provide feedback and different chunks or fragments or pieces, but not necessarily an opportunity to do visioning as a whole. Would would you recommend another engagement session at this point knowing how far along we are with actual contracted plans?
 Doug Brown: “There has to be a lot more effort into publicizing these public information sessions.” Brown responds: Yes, because I don’t think you’ve got the needed public input. I think an earlier delegation made that clear for you. And yeah, I think another session should be should be held.
Sharman had a follow up question: Shouldn’t we at this point, be seeing many more people at the podium than then to for such an update? What would we measure as strong public engagement? At this point?
Brown: “I would say that’s maybe a failure to communicate with a broad public because I was unaware that this was on the agenda until I got the Mayor’s newsletter on Friday. I was the only one that saw anything; I think there has to be a lot more effort into publicizing these public information sessions.
 By Staff
February 5th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The provincial government is reviewing the status of some of the Regional governments – Halton and its four municipalities are part of the review.
Is this a good idea, are there benefits for you the tax payer?
What about the members of Council who sit as both ward Councillors in the city and as city representatives at the Regional level – half of their pay comes from the Region. Self-interest has the potential to get in the way.
 City Council: They meet virtually. Will these council members do the same job for half the pay? Mayor gets enough to run for office again. City Council: They meet virtually. Will these council members do the same job for half the pay? Mayor gets enough to run for office again.
Will members of council want to run in 2026 for half of what they are getting today?
 By Staff
February 5th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Jim Thomson has been a regular delegator at City Hall. He know delegates virtually – his presence in the Council Chamber is limited.
Here is what he had to say today:
 Jim Thomson: This is this is the democratic process not working as the previous delegation said. Okay, yeah, we were told that the public would get to get a chance to engage in the outdoor space starting in March 2024. Now we’re told it’s going to be late spring does that means you? Okay, so I’m gonna start Why can’t the city issue a report that includes the word asbestos, there was an incident and the construction were part of the roof fell in, but it doesn’t get mentioned in the update. Why is that? I’d like to know if there was any asbestos released into the community when the roof fell in? We’ve never had any report on that. I don’t think anybody’s asked the question.
Yeah, okay. We were told that offsite parking would be something that the committee of adjustment would rule on. Now, we get told that the Committee of Adjustment doesn’t have the authority to make that kind of ruling. Who does? City council and if that’s the case, why didn’t City Council make the ruling? Now, not later? We were told that staff recommended not changing the zoning bylaws. We weren’t told why. Nobody asked the question why – you just accepted it. This is the democratic process not working as the previous delegation said. Okay, yeah, we were told that the public would get to get a chance to engage in the outdoor space starting in March 2024. Now we’re told it’s going to be late spring does that means you?
Were told that the public engagement on the outdoor space will only be limited to placement of trees benches, and the direction of pathways. What happened to actually talking about parking? Are we ever going to have public engagement on the parking. We’re also being told now that other uses other than benches, trees and pathways aren’t possible because the bore field being considered for the phase two heat pump. We’re prevent putting a baseball diamond or something on the site. There’s no underground facilities. So where’s the openness and transparency in this process? We keep getting told different things at different times. There’s never a consistent story.
Costs, okay, what’s the value of the change order to the contractor for the change? of scope? that’s being proposed? Specifically, what’s the cost of the doormat enhancement and enhancement that consumes green space? It’s somehow buried in the cost already. Can’t be. It wasn’t part of what the contractor bid on. Maybe it was in contingency but it’s a cost that the public is going to bear. Somehow, maybe it’s necessary. Maybe it’s not. How can decision be made on that? And does the public actually get to cut to comment on the doormat or is that out of the scope of the engagement?
 Jim Thomson: Is that going to happen in phase one and with no public consultation at all? What happened to the fulsome engagement process that we were supposed to have on the door space? Is that going to happen in phase one and with no public consultation at all? What happened to the fulsome engagement process that we were supposed to have on the door space? It’s not happening. And does the public actually get any input into the enhancement of the school board property? Can we say no, we don’t want to enhance the school board property. We want to keep the cost of the project down. Is that Is that something that the public gets to engage on? And lastly, the cost for the engagement process. It was supposed to cost $20,000 For the flyer to go to all the city. Now we’re told that all that’s happened and the cost is only $17,000. And that includes five or six engagement processes the food for feedback. So we’re the cause we were given bogus. Does anybody going to ask those questions?
Thank you for your time.
There was a very good discussion later in the meeting during whuchmany of the Thomson questions and concerns were answered.
 By Oubaida Ikharbine
February 5th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Morning, my name is Oubaida Ikharbine.
I am a proud and loyal citizen of Burlington and alumni of Robert Bateman High School. I’m here to speak on a matter that is not just close to my heart, but resonates with the heartbeat of our community. The preservation, protection and defence of the running track and field at the future Robert Bateman Community Center. The City of Burlington has taken an admirable step toward sustainability and community building by re-purposing the Robert Bateman high school into a multipurpose asset. However, the initiative has been marred by controversy division and scandal to the issues with with plans prostheses and, and reports surrounding this project.
 Oubaida Ikharbine: “The running track and field which has been a cornerstone of our neighbourhood for numerous decades should not be turned into a parking lot,” This has put a crucial element of our community’s fabric at risk, not only the running track and field which has been a cornerstone of our neighbourhood for numerous decades, but also the setting of a dangerous precedent that will surely be judged by future generations. Instead of protecting, defending and upgrading our already limited running tracks and sports fields. Our little corner of paradise in southern Ward five, the city has decided to make way for divisive and irreplaceable plans to build parking spaces. What someone likes to call the million dollar parking lot. This secret area is more than just a piece of land. It is a place where people come together to build friendships, enhance their physical and mental health and foster a sense of community. sporting groups come here to play and practice. Both fitness and leisure groups benefit from the existing infrastructure from the students of ascension from NAC elementary schools, who use it for gym and sports activities to our seniors, to our senior residents and young families, which you could save space for exercise and leisure. This space is a testament to the importance of an active and connected lifestyle. It is not just a 400 meter track and field. It is a symbol of our community’s vitality. It represents a future that is not centered around our current society, but a window to what could be for future generations. It is a part of our community’s DNA. It is our duty to protect it, not to destroy it. I like many others have grown up around this communal space. It’s where I’ve spent countless hours my friends enjoying the greenery and vibrancy of our community.
During the pandemic. It was one of the few places that served as a portal to a place of peace and solace without breaking any health guidelines. Today, it continues to thrive. It is a popular hub of activity during the warmer months. It is one of the only track and fields in southern Burlington that is open for free and public passive use without requiring a permit to be purchased. This communal landmark is a part of our identity and collective memory inspired by the delegation of Rachel Murphy, a fellow council member and various community members. I feel it is my duty as part of my civil service to carry the voice of those who feel unheard in this democratic process. The lack of proper and necessary public engagement is clear. There has been mixed messaging, misinformation and a lack of empathy for the community’s wants and needs, especially considering the trauma had to endure with the school closure.
 Where is the parking going to be – and how much parking should there be? The lack of proper public engagement is turning parts of this project into a fiasco by going forward this outrageous proposal to destroy a secret communal space some could argue the only one of its kind in southern Burlington. We are changing Burlington unofficial model to live, learn and play in this city to live, learn and park your cars. This is unacceptable. I’m here today to voice these concerns. And frustrations on the public record. And to say that enough is enough. We must find a new way forward to ensure this project success without destroying the community’s DNA. A shift away from cars has been deferred from generation to generation with a climate crisis unfolding political instability and the want to protect ensure that Burlington continues to be the best city to live in. My generation has been tasked to start what will be uncomfortable, but necessary change to the mechanics of our society. We understand the need for parking solutions for incoming tenants. However, demolishing a piece of our community soul for parking spaces is not the answer.
 Oubaida Ikharbine: “By adding a parking lot and destroying this precious space, we are perpetuating the problem of a car centric city.” The Burlington of the 20th century was designed for cars, but we cannot continue to subsidize driving cars and finding places to park them. Our future generations won’t be driving our cars anymore. That’s assuming we have enough fuel left to run them or can still afford them. It’s essential to plan for a city that doesn’t need to rely on them.
By adding a parking lot and destroying this precious space, we are perpetuating the problem of a car centric city. We have repeatedly suggested alternative parking solutions, such as underground or structured parking, utilizing nearby land for parking facilities or incorporating a bus pass into Brock University’s tuition. And increasing bus frequency during peak times. These solutions preserve our communal space and align with our city’s sustainability goals. We must plan for the future and pass on this asset to the next generation considering their needs and best interests. We cannot predict the future but we can use forecasted trends and societal innovations as a starting point to strategically plan for an inevitable car less society, a society where we take back our green spaces where they coexist harmoniously with public transit. A plan for the future that’s not in this room today, but instead at school enjoying the trucks and fields that they play on without worrying about paradise being paved over to put up a parking lot. The decision to close our school what was already a de facto community hub was made without our proper democratic input, leaving a lingering feeling of trauma for all those in the community. We fear that this is continuing with repurpose of the building today.
We have ideas on the Get Involved portal where an avenue public engagement is encouraged. An idea that received the most votes keep the track and field as his lawn signs have been distributed to spread information and awareness of the petition that has garnered over 860 signatures and counting. All screaming the same message stop the parking lot conversion. questions have been asked that mentioned the trauma and horror that was felt and endured by the committee the by the community during the park process only to be told the use of the park and the fate of the track will be will be determined by the mandated and legislated parking needs. How is this a respectful and mindful approach to community engagement? Today my generation who witnessed and was directly affected by the outcome of that decision stands to ensure that history does not repeat itself. We demand a transparent, genuine engaged engagement in the decision making process involving every concerned citizen we are not just demanding our truck and field, our communal Civic Center be left alone. We are advocating for preserving a legacy, a space that embodies our community spirit and resilience in order to be a productive member of society. It is my right to come here today and voice my concerns. But it is also my responsibility to be constructive and provide solutions to these issues. As a result, we are asking for the following four initiatives to be undertaken.
 The communication strategy employed by city officials needs to shift the tone from parking needs to emphasizing community engagement and involvement. Number one, stop the parking lot conversion.
Number two, establish a committee of citizens to review the staff report and act as a community advisory and steering team this committee should assess adjust, offer feedback and highlight the good aspects of a project that uses over 100 million taxpayer dollars. No topic should be off limits, including questions on asbestos removal, the purchase of the building green space modifications and parking issues. All decisions must adhere to the proper democratic principles, ensuring we are accountable to future generations seeking answers from history. The committee will gather community feedback and draft a detailed community report. This document will lay the groundwork for future efforts allowing for direct community involvement in the in the decision making process. It is crucial to provide a forum of direct democracy for this project. This group should be known as the Citizens Advisory Committee validating the community’s contributions and concerns.
Number three, provides communication strategy employed by city officials shift the tone from parking needs to emphasizing community engagement and involvement in this project. Ensure that messaging reflects a genuine commitment to understanding and fulfilling the desires of the community while eliminating elements that are not well received.
And number four, postpone the transfer of the Brock University Programs for one year. This delay will allow sufficient time for thorough evaluation and final decisions be made on numerous parts of this project, taking into account the community’s feedback and committee’s recommendations.
The In closing. I urge city council and all stakeholders to consider the profound impact the sacred space has on our community. We have the moral and ethical obligation to honour the history the heritage and the values it represents. We have an obligation to make a well informed, engaged and ethical decision that we and future generations can be proud of our decisions should should prioritize community engagement, social democracy, sustainability and unity over mere convenience based on yesterday’s parking needs. Let’s preserve not just an act of sanctuary, but the heart of our community. Let us make sure we do not set a very dangerous precedent that would destroy and threaten our running trucks and fields throughout this city. For the sake of putting up parking lots Thank you very much.
It was an outstanding delegation.
 By Staff
February 5th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The provincial government said it is keeping costs down for public transit riders with the launch of “One Fare,” which will save riders an average of $1,600 each year.
Beginning February 26, 2024, riders will pay only once as they transfer for free between the TTC and participating transit agencies in the Greater Toronto Area, including GO Transit.
“Our government is on a mission to keep costs down for the hardworking people of Ontario,” said Premier Doug Ford. “One Fare will eliminate double fares and put $1,600 back into the pockets of transit riders. Alongside the hundreds of dollars we’re saving for drivers by cutting the gas tax, scrapping road tolls and eliminating the licence plate sticker fee, we’re providing commuters with real, tangible relief.”
 Burlington Transit buses pull up at the Burlington GO station. Fully funded by the Ontario government, One Fare will lead to over eight million new rides every year and will make cross-boundary travel more affordable and convenient for students, seniors and other commuters transferring between GO Transit, TTC, Brampton Transit, Durham Region Transit, MiWay and York Region Transit.
“At a time when many families feel like they’re struggling to get ahead, our government is making public transit simpler, more convenient and more affordable,” said Vijay Thanigasalam, Associate Minister of Transportation. “Under the leadership of Premier Ford, we will continue to make historic investments in public transit and put money back in commuters’ pockets, where it belongs.”
One Fare builds on improvements the government made in 2022 to eliminate fares between GO Transit and several transit agencies in the Greater Golden Horseshoe. The government will continue to work with municipal partners to identify opportunities to make transit more seamless for riders by harmonizing discounted fares and other measures.
“Public transit should be a convenient and affordable option for getting to work, school or running errands,” said Olivia Chow, Mayor of Toronto. “Ontario’s One Fare will make it easier and cheaper to transfer between the TTC, GO Transit and other transit agencies. When governments continue to work together, we can make life more affordable and invest in services families rely on, like high quality public transit that costs you less.”
Over the next decade, Ontario is investing $70.5 billion to transform public transit in the province, including the largest subway expansion in Canadian history with the Ontario Line, the Scarborough Subway Extension, the Eglinton Crosstown West Extension and the Yonge North Subway Extension. By 2031, the province will introduce two-way, all-day GO train service, every 15 minutes in key corridors in the Greater Golden Horseshoe to connect more people to transit, jobs and housing for generations to come. |
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 By Staff
February 5th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
This is a bit of a different approach for the Burlington Historical Society
Keda Edwards Pierre will be the speaker at the February 12th meeting of the Society.
 Keda Edwards Pierre will be the speaker at the February 12th meeting of the Burlington Historical Society. Keda brings 35+ years of diversified experience, as a 27-year police vet, socialpreneur, impact producer and ordained minister.
Keda’s work includes mental wellness and trauma recovery, JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion) activism, strategic partnership, business and program development, and sustainable community development.
Keda has worked as a frontline and community officer with Toronto Police, former Board President of Women’s Health in Women’s Hands and Women’s Multicultural Resource and Counselling Centre, Founding Member of Immigrant Women in Business, CEO of True2Soul Network (committed to the eradication of gender-based violence), Facilitator and Trainer with Toronto Police Service and TELUS Health (formerly Lifeworks/Morneau Shepell) and CEO of Broken Whole Media Group (amplifying underrepresented voices through Film, TV and Web).
See her is as one of the people making history rather than being historical.
Monday, 12th February, 7 pm in Centennial Hall Central Library
 By Jeff Vertes
February 5th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
As we navigate the intricate landscape of gambling regulation in Canada, I, Jeff Vertes, a seasoned gambling expert and professional poker player, invite you to delve into the multifaceted world of challenges and opportunities shaping the industry’s future. Canada’s diverse provinces, each with its own nuances, present a canvas where the evolution of gambling regulation unfolds, requiring a nuanced perspective and strategic foresight. In this exploration, we uncover the dynamic interplay between regulatory frameworks, technological advancements, and societal expectations. As a gambling enthusiast and industry insider, I aim to shed light on the prospects for the development of gambling regulation in Canada, offering insights into the challenges faced by the industry and the promising avenues for growth. Unlocking success in the world of online gambling is made easier with insightful tips from great players at top gambling sites in Canada.
 A journey through the regulatory landscape. Join me on this journey as we scrutinize the regulatory landscape, dissect the unique challenges, and identify opportunities that can propel Canada’s gambling industry into a new era of responsible and innovative gaming. Through the lens of a gambling expert and poker aficionado, we aim to unravel the complexities and possibilities that lie ahead for the ever-evolving Canadian gambling scene.
Regional Variations and Harmonization
The Mosaic of Provincial Approaches:
Canada’s vast expanse is not only marked by geographical diversity but also by a tapestry of regulatory approaches towards gambling that varies from province to province. As we examine the regional variations, it becomes evident that each province has crafted its own set of rules and policies, reflecting local considerations, preferences, and socio-economic factors.
Challenges of a Fragmented System:
While provincial autonomy brings flexibility, it also introduces challenges, particularly in creating a harmonized national framework. The fragmentation of regulations raises concerns about consistency, fairness, and the potential for regulatory arbitrage. Players and operators alike must navigate a patchwork quilt of rules, leading to complexities in compliance and enforcement.
Seeking Balance through Harmonization:
Harmonizing these regional variations emerges as a key consideration for the future of gambling regulation in Canada. Striking a balance between respecting provincial autonomy and establishing common standards is crucial. Achieving harmonization can streamline operations, enhance consumer protection, and create a more level playing field for operators.
 Best practices: creating a regulatory symphony that resonates with fairness, consistency, and adaptability. Innovative Models for Cooperation
Exploring innovative models of inter-provincial cooperation can foster harmonization without compromising regional nuances. Platforms for information exchange, collaborative policymaking, and shared best practices can contribute to a regulatory environment that is both effective and adaptable to the diverse needs of the Canadian population.
Regional variations in gambling regulation form the intricate threads of Canada’s gaming landscape. As the industry charts its course, the challenge lies in harmonizing these variations, creating a regulatory symphony that resonates with fairness, consistency, and adaptability. The journey towards harmonization is not only about aligning rules but also about weaving a regulatory fabric that enriches the Canadian gambling experience for players, operators, and regulators alike.
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Regulation of Online Gambling
- The Digital Revolution in Gambling: The advent of online gambling has ushered in a new era for the industry, challenging traditional regulatory frameworks worldwide. In Canada, as we contemplate the regulation of online gambling, we find ourselves at the intersection of technological innovation and the evolving landscape of player preferences.
- Addressing the Online Challenge: Online gambling presents a unique set of challenges for regulators. The borderless nature of the internet demands a comprehensive and adaptive regulatory approach. How can Canada strike a balance between harnessing the benefits of online gambling and mitigating potential risks such as unregulated operators, underage access, and the integrity of online games?
- Integration with Traditional Platforms: One of the key considerations is integrating the regulation of online gambling seamlessly with the existing framework governing land-based operations. This cohesion is crucial not only for regulatory consistency but also for ensuring fair competition and preventing the fragmentation of the industry.
- Ensuring Consumer Protection: As online gambling platforms proliferate, safeguarding consumers becomes paramount. Effective age verification, responsible gaming tools, and secure financial transactions are pivotal elements of a robust regulatory framework. How can Canada enhance consumer protection measures without stifling the industry’s potential for growth?
- Technological Innovations and Regulatory Response: The rapidly evolving landscape of technology introduces novel gaming formats and features. How can regulators adapt swiftly to these innovations, ensuring that the regulatory framework remains agile and responsive to the ever-changing nature of online gambling?
- Global Cooperation in Online Regulation: Given the international nature of online gambling, collaboration with global counterparts becomes imperative. Establishing mechanisms for information exchange, harmonizing standards, and collective efforts against illicit operators can fortify Canada’s online gambling regulatory framework.
Player Protection and Problem Gambling Prevention
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 Effective player protection entails the establishment of comprehensive support systems designed to assist individuals who may experience difficulties related to gambling. Understanding the Importance of Player Protection: Player protection is a cornerstone of responsible gambling practices, ensuring that individuals can engage in gambling activities in a safe and secure environment. In Canada, as the gambling landscape evolves, it is imperative to prioritize measures that safeguard players’ interests and well-being.
- Comprehensive Support Systems: Effective player protection entails the establishment of comprehensive support systems designed to assist individuals who may experience difficulties related to gambling. This includes access to helplines, counseling services, self-exclusion programs, and financial management tools aimed at promoting responsible gaming behaviors.
- Educational Initiatives: Education plays a crucial role in preventing problem gambling by raising awareness about the risks associated with excessive gambling and promoting informed decision-making among players. Educational initiatives, such as public awareness campaigns and educational resources, empower individuals to make responsible choices regarding their gambling activities.
- Regulatory Requirements: Regulators play a pivotal role in enforcing player protection measures by imposing regulatory requirements on gambling operators. These requirements may include age verification procedures, responsible gaming tools, and transparency in advertising to ensure that players are adequately informed and protected.
- Collaborative Efforts: Addressing problem gambling requires a collaborative approach involving various stakeholders, including government agencies, gambling operators, healthcare providers, and community organizations. By working together, these stakeholders can implement holistic strategies that address the root causes of problem gambling and provide support to those in need.
Safeguarding players through robust player protection measures and problem gambling prevention initiatives is essential for fostering a safe and responsible gambling environment in Canada. By implementing comprehensive support systems, educational initiatives, regulatory requirements, and collaborative efforts, stakeholders can work together to protect players from harm and promote responsible gaming behaviors.
Global Standards and International Cooperation
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 The gambling industry’s challenges extend beyond national borders. The Imperative for Global Standards: In an era of interconnected economies and digital globalization, the gambling industry’s challenges extend beyond national borders. Establishing global standards for gambling regulation becomes paramount to address transnational issues and ensure a consistent and fair playing field for operators and players alike.
- The Role of International Cooperation: International cooperation is the linchpin for advancing global standards in gambling regulation. Collaboration between countries enables the sharing of best practices, experiences, and insights. By fostering a collective approach, nations can collectively tackle challenges such as cross-border advertising, money laundering, and the proliferation of unlicensed operators.
- Information Exchange and Best Practices: A crucial aspect of international cooperation is the exchange of information and best practices. Establishing platforms for sharing regulatory frameworks, successful interventions, and technological advancements enables countries to learn from one another and adapt proven strategies to their unique contexts.
- Harmonizing Regulatory Approaches: While recognizing the diversity of legal and cultural contexts, there is a need for harmonizing fundamental principles in gambling regulation. This involves finding common ground on issues like responsible gaming, player protection, and licensing requirements. A harmonized approach fosters a more cohesive global gambling ecosystem.
- Challenges and Opportunities in Harmonization: Challenges may arise in harmonizing regulations due to differing legal traditions, cultural norms, and political considerations. However, these challenges also present opportunities for dialogue and negotiation, facilitating a nuanced approach that respects sovereignty while acknowledging the shared responsibility for a well-regulated global gambling industry.
- Benefits for Operators and Players: A globally harmonized approach to gambling regulation benefits both operators and players. Operators gain clarity on international standards, facilitating compliance and market entry. Players, in turn, enjoy a safer and more consistent gambling experience, irrespective of their geographical location.
Global standards and international cooperation are integral to addressing the complexities of the modern gambling landscape. By working collaboratively, nations can collectively raise the bar for regulation, fostering an environment where the gambling industry thrives responsibly and players are protected globally.
In conclusion, as we reflect on the prospects for the development of gambling regulation in Canada, it becomes evident that the path forward is fraught with challenges yet brimming with opportunities. The Canadian gambling landscape, characterized by regional variations and the advent of online platforms, presents a complex terrain for regulators, operators, and players alike. However, amidst these challenges lie opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and progress. By embracing technological advancements, harmonizing regional variations, and prioritizing player protection, Canada can position itself as a leader in responsible gambling regulation. As a gambling expert, I believe that a proactive and inclusive approach, informed by international best practices and stakeholder engagement, will be essential in navigating the evolving gambling landscape. By addressing challenges such as problem gambling prevention, regulatory harmonization, and global cooperation, Canada can unlock the full potential of its gambling industry while safeguarding the interests of its citizens. In the journey ahead, I am optimistic about the prospects for Canada to establish a robust and sustainable gambling regulatory framework that promotes fairness, transparency, and responsible gaming. Together, let us seize the opportunities before us and chart a course towards a brighter future for the Canadian gambling industry.
By Pepper Parr
February 3rd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
The quality of our democracy is facing unprecedented threats.
Low voter turnout, mistrust in institutions, polarization, and hostile partisan politics are of deep concern to many. Making progress on electoral reform requires political leadership, but politicians alone won’t fix the system that elected them.
There is a belief that changes have to be made in how we elect leaders federally but no clear view on just how that can be done.
Teachers have said they have no experience teaching civics and are uncomfortable with the subject that has the potential to become very partisan.
 Dave Meslin Unlock Democracy Canada, an organization founded and run by Dave Meslin who has been at it since November of 2007 is finding support from Citizens Assemblies, an incredible innovation in democracy, and a practise that originated Canada
A citizens’ assembly is a group of people selected by lottery from the general population to deliberate on important public questions so as to exert an influence.
A citizens’ assembly is part of a process used to create public policy.[ Its members form a representative cross-section of the public, and are provided with time, resources and a broad range of viewpoints to learn deeply about an issue. Through skilled facilitation, the assembly members work to find common ground on a shared set of recommendations. Citizens’ assemblies can be more representative and deliberative than public engagement, polls and legislatures. They seek quality of participation over quantity.
There is a House of Commons motion (M86) on the table. A “motion” is not a “bill”, the government could choose to simply ignore the outcome. There is however, an enormous value in raising public awareness, building cross-party support in Ottawa, and building further momentum towards future goals.
In February, 2023, MP Mike Morrice (Kitchener Centre) put forward a private members motion for a National Citizens’ Assembly on Electoral Reform. A motion can have a maximum of 20 joint seconders, this motion quickly achieved that, with MPs from four parties seconding it.
The Morrice motion did not come to a vote in the House of Commons; it was too far down the list in the “order of precedence” for private members business.
 Members of the House of Commons during a vote. In June, 2023, building on the momentum and cross-partisan support, MP Lisa Marie Barron (Nanaimo-Ladysmith) put forward a new motion for a National Citizens’ Assembly on Electoral Reform (motion M-86).
This motion was debated for the first time on November 7, 2023, a vote is expected sometime in early 2024.
A National Citizens’ Assembly on Electoral Reform:
Is a non-partisan, independent, trusted process
Is composed of citizens selected at random, like a jury
Includes Canadians from all walks of life, with special care to ensure that participants reflect Canadian society, including by age, gender, ethnicity and region of Canada
Engages citizens to learn from experts, thoughtfully consider an issue, and make a recommendation
Without pre-judging various kinds of electoral systems, a citizens’ assembly will review options to improve the current electoral system. They would be free to recommend keeping the status quo (first-past-the-post), ranked ballots, or a proportional system.
 Burlington MP Karina Gould speaking in the House of Commons in 2017 A CBC report in February of 2017 said: ”
Seven months after her predecessor described the current electoral system as “antiquated,” and one week after the Liberal government abandoned its pursuit of reform, the new minister of democratic institutions defended first-past-the-post during an appearance before a House of Commons committee.
“The first-past-the-post system may not be perfect — no electoral system is,” Karina Gould said Tuesday during an appearance before the procedure and House affairs committee.
“But it has served this country for 150 years and advances a number of democratic values that Canadians hold dear, such as strong local representation, stability and accountability.”
The decision to abandon the Liberal Party’s commitment to implement a new electoral system was “difficult” but “responsible,” Gould said, citing a lack of consensus around the options.
By Staff
February 3rd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
United Way Halton and Hamilton announced significant progress towards their fundraising goal of the 2023-2024 campaign. So far $9.5M has been raised – the goal was to raise $12.5M goal, and will require the support of the entire community.
 The campaign is well on their way, it’s crucial that we continue to work together and push towards the finish line.”
 There is still an opportunity to support this year’s Local Love Community Match that means donations have even greater power. For every $4 donated by an individual, an additional $1 will be contributed by community members and organizations.
The United Way Halton & Hamilton 2023-2024 campaign runs until March 31, 2024.
Where does the money go and just how much is needed and, more importantly wher is the need?
Community Development Halton, one of the organizations that is supported by United Way Hamilton Halton issued a report recent pinpointing just where poverty exists. The data is surprising.
Knowing where the poverty exists – the United Way can use the funds it raises to the places that need it most.
By Pepper Parr
February 3rd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Ward 3 Councillor Rory Nisan was the last of the Burlington speakers presenting to the Standing Committee on Heritage, Infrastructure and Cultural Policy
Mr. Rory Nisan: Where is my son going to live? How is my son going to afford a place? How far away will he have to move? Will we have to move to be close to him and his family someday? He’s only three years old, but eventually he will need his own place, and he deserves his own future.
We’re all here today because we’ve all made building more homes faster our top priority. I’m grateful to every one of you for coming out on a snowy January day, so thank you.
 Honestly, Halton region just works. I come with good news and bad news, and I like to start with good news usually. Despite the shortage of homes and despite the high cost of living, the residents of ward 3 in Burlington, and indeed all of Burlington—all of Halton—are living some really great lives.
More good news: Halton has a mature two-tier system of local government. We’re not afraid to do the hard work, to look inward, prove the processes and find efficiencies. We’ve done it before, and we can do it again. In fact, it’s already happening.
Our CAOs are working together now to see what can be downloaded or uploaded. Let’s be clear, though, that there is not yet any evidentiary basis for substantive duplication no matter what rhetoric you might hear, nor is there any evidentiary basis, at this point, for downloading rather than uploading. Keep in mind that three out of four municipalities in Halton are still towns. There has not been a single motion at a lower-tier municipality calling for single-tier.
Honestly, Halton region just works. I go there. I put my region hat on. I do what’s best for the region. I don’t bring local politics there. Some decisions are just better made at a broader level, and the results speak for themselves. Make no mistake, the region is independent and just as much a part of local democracy as the lower-tier municipalities, even if it’s not subject to strong-mayor powers that may frankly incentivize consolidation of power at a lower level.
Now, you might have on your notepads there two columns—upload, download—and I appreciate that, but respectfully, let us do the hard work. We will work collaboratively to develop an evidentiary basis for our decisions that is rooted in the local reality in Halton to get more homes built faster. Those decisions are not going to be made on a whim. They will have the legitimacy of support of the triple majority. Honestly, 99% of what we do at Halton is already by consensus. We’ll fix what’s broken. If it ain’t broke, we’re going to leave it alone. I promise if we need anything from you, from the Ontario Legislature, we will call you.
Okay, bad news time: We’re not going to build more homes faster if municipalities are chronically underfunded for major infrastructure. There is going to have to be a give-and-take. In Burlington, we’re spending $2.2 million this year alone to improve and streamline our planning and permitting process. We’re even experimenting with artificial intelligence for detailed technical reviews.
If you really want more houses built, and I know that you do, you’re going to have to finance us. Why? Why can’t we just do it ourselves? I’m going to be really brutal here. We can’t drop massive tax increases that would be necessary onto our residents. We’ll get tossed out of office. We’ll be replaced by populist “zero tax increase” campaigners. We will get nowhere. We’ll just keep fighting and the houses are not going to get built.
 “We’re pushing the feds for a new municipal growth framework, but that’s not going to happen without Ontario.” So, what’s the alternative? The province and the federal government step in, collaborate with municipalities: pay for what is supposed to be paid, first of all; and second, fund those major growth-related infrastructure and other costs that meet your objectives. This is what we are asking for in the new deal for Halton region.
I’m also Ontario caucus chair for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, so we’re pushing the feds for a new municipal growth framework, but that’s not going to happen without Ontario. If you’re serious about building homes faster, you have to fund infrastructure.
What’s the alternative? Do we want our kids, our grandkids, our nieces and nephews going to school in portables for their entire school career? Do you want community centres, overrun pools, overfilled parks, overcrowded? Or how about just water and waste water? Without that, nothing is getting built. This is what’s going to happen if the province doesn’t start funding us properly—and this goes back to previous governments as well.
Here, at Halton region, we have some shortfalls: $14.7 million in 2024 for health and social services is owed in funding from the province; $15.5 million per year due to the Development Charges Act, limiting the collection of development charges to fund critical infrastructure; an estimated total shortfall of $940 million by 2031 for additional residential development charges as a result of Bill 23; and we have a need to accelerate $750 million of key water and waste water capacity infrastructure projects.
The $200-million fund is very welcome, but it won’t even cover a third of Halton’s needs. This is why regional council unanimously adopted a motion calling for a new deal for Halton region to address the funding shortfall for cost-shared health and social services programming, a shortfall in development charges revenues, and to ensure critical water and waste water infrastructure is adequately funded to keep pace with the growth that you’re telling us we have to do and that we are happy to do.
If you want to know Halton region’s position, which was approved just this past December by all members of regional council unanimously—I will share this with you momentarily—here are the copies of the call for the new deal. Maybe you’ve heard that municipalities are responsible for 60% of public infrastructure in Canada, and we get 12% of the tax dollars. You can fix this. We can build more homes faster. Let’s all pick up our hammers and get it done.
 Canada is the best place to live in the world for a reason. Mr. Rory Nisan: Everything you said, MPP Shaw, is accurate. FCM is making a really strong push to the federal government, but we need the same sort of push which is also launching provincially to fund these soft costs. So if we build a house, that’s great; if we can connect it to the taps, that’s absolutely necessary.
Canada is the best place to live in the world for a reason. It’s because we have the community centres. It’s because we have the firefighters, the police officers. It’s because we have green space that we can go and play in. So I think that we can aspire to more than just connecting homes to the waste water if we want and expect our children to have the same quality of life that we’ve had.
Mr. Rory Nisan: Thank you—not for long. I do want to say to the question of us getting money from the federal government and asking them for that waste water money, absolutely, we would be more than happy to get direct funding from the federal government down to municipalities, like they have in other areas like the Housing Accelerator Fund.
Burlington approved four units, as of right, which is unlocking the key to the Housing Accelerator Fund. Unfortunately, it’s not unlocking anything with the province. Those policy changes are not unlocking funding with the province, and honestly, we feel that they should. We are grateful for the increases from the provincial government, don’t get me wrong, but you still owe us. We’re still in the hole. So we would really appreciate it if you get to even and then create that new fund
Ms. Mary-Margaret McMahon: Now I’m going to whip over to Rory—my favourite name, an Irish name.
Thank you. I just got this handed to me, hot off the press. Amazing. This was unanimously passed in beautiful Burlington. The resolution is for a new deal for Halton region. Give me more details, exactly, specifically. What would you want? Dream list.
Mr. Rory Nisan: This was unanimously approved at Halton regional council, so it comes with the authority of the 24 members of Halton region, spanning the four local municipalities acting in Halton region’s interest.
The new deal for Halton region is us asking that we partner with the provincial government on the incredible growth that we are being asked and we are willing to deliver. So it’s asking that the provincial government, the Legislature, be a partner with us, and that you fund what needs to be funded to achieve the objectives that you have laid out for Halton region.
We’re magnanimous; we think that everyone in Ontario is deserving of a new deal. But seeing Toronto being able to make trade-offs for highways for funding—we don’t have any highways we can trade you, but we can promise you we will build 100% of the homes you are asking for. We’ll probably beat it, frankly. But we won’t beat it, we won’t meet it, we won’t even scrape it without provincial support. I really believe that this government understands that. That’s why you did the $200-million fund over three years. But we’re just getting started, as MPP Rae said.
And if I may just add: We can’t forget, in this new deal or in any deal, those who are most in need. Chair Carr mentioned how the paramedics work and how Halton region has stepped up. One thing that makes Halton region nearly one of a kind is that we have a place for every homeless person in need. We can approach every person who is unhoused, I should say, and offer them a place to be.
You won’t find that everywhere. We’ll even take them to visit their pets at the animal shelter. That’s how much we care for these people.
Mr. Matthew Rae
My question is to Rory, to start. I’m always going back to examples, because it really helps me when I go back to Minister Calandra. Are there one or two examples—we heard the infrastructure funding—of other processes that can be changed to help get those—Marianne mentioned that there are almost 3,000 in the pipeline. Are there things the region can do to help ensure that site plan approval occurs quickly? Paul mentioned three different groups: conservation authorities, city, region. Is the region looking at ways they could potentially just have one sort of one-stop window?
Mr. Rory Nisan: I have to be honest, with Bill 23 devolving planning down to the local municipalities, that has got to be where you need to cast your eyes at this point. Conservation Halton meets its planning time frames well over 90% of the time. Region of Halton is also very quick in responding, but they’re not going to be a factor going forward in those planning timelines. If you want to get the homes built, you’ve got to look at the lower-tiers.
 The city of Burlington is now working with the accelerated timelines that we were given to start approving developments. Committee just brought to council a new long-term residence that’s seven storeys. I’ll tell you it was not unanimously supported by local residents, but we knew it was the right thing for Burlington and that’s why we brought it forward.
I appreciate your interest in how we can make Halton region faster. Maybe if we got that royal assent on Bill 23, that would definitely help us a lot, just to have that clarity. You know, it’s very tough, MPP Rae, to be working under a cloud of “I’m not sure which direction we’re going and which way.” That makes it hard for developers too. That’s why we have 41,000 in the pipeline and not 41,000 that are being built right now.
Related news stories:
Meed Ward speaks to Standing Committee on Heritage, Infrastructure and Cultural Policy
Paul Sharman speaks to Standing Committee on Heritage, Infrastructure and Cultural Policy
By Pepper Parr
February 2nd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Doug Ford finally gets a break.
His marching orders to his Cabinet members can be kept secret.
 A relieved Premier – he doesn’t have to tell us what he told hid henchmen what they have to do. Supreme Court ruled his ministers’ mandate letters do not have to be made public.
“The mandate letters are protected from disclosure … The letters are revealing of the substance of cabinet deliberations,” the high court ruled Friday in a unanimous decision” said the Supreme Court decision.
Ford’s Progressive Conservative government had spent years fighting the release of the 2018 documents that give ministers their marching orders.
“We’ve been pretty clear — the premier’s been pretty clear — those are captured by cabinet confidentiality and we haven’t wavered from that position,” Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy had told reporters earlier this week.
However, we do know what some of the mandates were – the Greenbelt scandal made that public.
 There will be more. The Ford government, or Ford Nation as Burlington MPP is calling the government these days.
While cabinet mandate letters have traditionally been kept private, former Liberal premier Kathleen Wynne abandoned that practice in 2014.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau followed suit when he took power federally the following year.
 By Staff
February 2nd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
| The Halton District School Board and the Halton Elementary Teachers-ETFO (Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario) announce that a tentative agreement has been reached.
Halton Elementary Teachers-ETFO represents more than 3,000 elementary teachers.
The tentative deal must be ratified by the Elementary Teachers-ETFO Halton local members and the Halton District School Board.
Terms of the tentative agreement remain confidential until the ratification process is completed.
@HaltonDSB | @HaltonDistrictSchoolBoard |
@HDSBschools
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By Staff
February 2nd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Wiarton Willie predicts an early Spring.
Did we have a winter?
 Didn’t see his shadow – early Spring predicted. .
By Staff
February 2nd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington Teen Tour Band, Canada’s oldest and largest youth marching band, is set to delight audiences locally and overseas this spring. The Burlington Teen Tour Band will have their spring concert April 7 and have been invited to participate in the 80th D-Day Anniversary Tour in England and France May 31 – June 10. These performances not only mark a thrilling chapter for the band but are also bolstered by the announcement of new Burlington Teen Tour Band Director of Bands & Music Services Roberto (Rob) Cuesta. Roberto (Rob) will begin in his new role on Feb. 20, 2024, as the creative force behind Burlington’s globally renowned marching band.
About Burlington Teen Tour Band Director Roberto Cuesta
 Roberto (Rob) Cuesta Roberto (Rob) brings over 28 years of experience in band and music services to the Burlington Teen Tour Band. He is a seasoned musician, marketer and business leader obtaining his Master of Business Administration with Distinction from Warwick Business School and a Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing from the UK Chartered Institute of Marketing. Roberto (Rob) has 18 years of youth work experience beginning with Scouts Canada and then Air Cadets which lead him to progressive leadership roles in both areas and an appointment as Band Master at an early age. By age 23, he became Director of Music running a band with 75 per cent of members under age 21 and later became National Training Director for the Traditional Youth Marching Band Association (TYMBA).
Most recently, Roberto (Rob) was Director of Music for the 48th Highlanders of Canada. He has ten years of experience as a Band Leader and an additional 14 years as a player in military-style wind bands such as: The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada, The Governor General’s Horse Guards and The Band of the Hampshire Constabulary to name just a few.
 The Family Lobby: Burlington Teen Tour Band marches into the space with every instrument blaring away. It was a great day for BPAC and the day the BTTB made the place their home base. Annual Spring Concert
Featuring: Burlington Teen Tour Band and Junior Redcoats
Date: April 7, 2024
Time: Two ticketed performances at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Tickets: To purchase tickets, contact Burlington Performing Arts Centre (BPAC) box office Burlingtonpac.ca/Burlington-teen-tour-band.
Location: BPAC in Burlington
80th D-Day Anniversary Tour
Featuring: Burlington Teen Tour Band
Dates: May 31 – June 10, 2024
Background: The Mayor of Courseulles-sur-Mer sent a personal invitation to the Burlington Teen Tour Band to attend the 80th Anniversary of D-Day. The band has taken part in past D-Day anniversary events including the 40th, 50th, 60th and 75th. The 80th anniversary may be the last large scale anniversary event to commemorate this historic event as the veterans who took part are becoming fewer and fewer. A tour like this is unique as it is by invitation only. The educational value is incredible with the opportunity to speak with the veterans directly and visit the Canadian war cemetery.
 Last major tour took the Teen Tour Band to Ireland
About Burlington Teen Tour Band
The Burlington Teen Tour Band have been Canada’s Musical Ambassadors since 1947. They have developed a rich history over the last 75 years. Since its beginnings in 1947, the Burlington Teen Tour Band has grown into Canada’s oldest and largest youth marching band. The Burlington Teen Tour Band is known globally for its level of excellence in music and marching. They have had the honour and privilege to represent Burlington, Ontario, and Canada around the world in such countries as: England, Republic of Ireland, France, Japan, The Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. The Burlington Teen Tour Band regularly returns home to Burlington as champions or first prize winners from internationally scaled competitions. The Burlington Teen Tour Band travels the world representing Burlington, Ontario, and Canada. The band has performed for Heads of State and Royalty as well as been in television and movies. They have also performed at prestigious events such as the: Rose Bowl Parade, D-Day Anniversary, Orange Bowl Parade, 70th Anniversary of Pearl Harbour, and many more. Burlington Teen Tour Band is open to youth aged 13 to 21 who want to represent Canada as musical ambassadors.
Links and Resources
burlington.ca/teentourband
teentourband.org
By Dianne Hudson
February 2nd, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Mobile technology has effectively given consumers a computer in their pocket or, for real tech lovers, tech that can be worn on a wrist or embedded in another peripheral. There are myriad reasons why we all love our mobile phones, but connectivity, security, and the sheer scale of options available to users are undoubtedly among the reasons that people have an interdependent relationship with their phone, tablet, or other smart device.
 App revenue is going from strength to strength. Most of us access the vast majority of information on our smartphones through apps rather than via web browsers, and in Canada, they are increasingly popular. In a time of economic slowdowns and external pressure on finances, app revenue is going from strength to strength. Unlike many other sectors, there seems to be no shrinkage of the market here.
Initially, market analysts wondered if this was another market boosted by the COVID-19 effect. While some sectors like hospitality and airlines saw massive contractions in the period, other online businesses saw their businesses really take off. The value of the app sector rose from $1.6 billion in 2019 to $2.8 billion in 2021. With so many people restricted to their homes, this could have been expected. However, as the world returned to normal, the sector remained buoyant, and while revenue was down to $2.7 billion in 2022, it is significantly larger than it was pre-pandemic.
 The growth is meeting a demand. Statistics show that in January 2023, Canada had 31.2 million smartphone users and apps were downloaded 1.2 billion times. In 2022, the average Canadian spent 4.6 hours on their mobile device daily, up from 1.4 hours in 2019. Social media makes up for a considerable amount of time passed on our mobile phones, but this landscape is constantly changing. Where Facebook once dominated, TikTok became the most downloaded app in 2022. It was not just the most popular social media app but the top-grossing app in Canada overall. TikTok generated $43.6 million and recorded 4.4 million downloads.
However, people are not only spending all their screen time on social media. Gaming apps are also top-rated. The first gaming app to go viral was, arguably, Flappybird. Forbes magazine even described it as the Justin Beiber of gaming apps, and at the height of its popularity, it was raking in $50,000 a day. While no other game has since captured the collective imagination in such a way, Roblox has been a firm favourite for many years. In 2022, the app was downloaded almost 55,000 times for Android devices alone. However, according to statistics, the most popular Android app game in 2022 was Stumble Guys, which clocked up an impressive 198,758 downloads.
 Canadians love to have a flutter; recent poll revealed over half of the population claimed to have gambled within the last month. Gaming apps are not child’s play. The audience for games on smartphones crosses all demographics. Even people you would not traditionally think of as gamers find a few minutes every morning to battle with the New York Times puzzle app and pit their wits against The Daily Crossword, Wordle and the app’s latest title, Connections. Wordle players are 51% female, 47% male and 2% non-binary. A poll of American Wordle players found more than half of them were Millennials; a quarter were Gen Xers, and the balance were Gen Zs and Baby Boomers.
Mobile gambling and casinos are another sector where apps have captured the public’s imagination. Canadians love to have a flutter and a recent poll revealed over half of the population claimed to have gambled within the last month. There are over 19 million active online gambling accounts in the country, and the sector has been boosted by Ontario opening its fully regulated commercial market, making all forms of gambling in the province legal.
Whether players choose online slots, poker, roulette or other casino games, a wide selection of apps exist. If you talk about the best casino apps for real money, Spin Casino is the one, so writes Hannah Cutajar from Casino.org. Jackpot City and Play Ojo also score very highly for excellent game selection, chances to earn cashback on every bet and the sheer size of their jackpots.
As well as catching up on socials and playing games, there are also more serious uses of apps on mobile devices. Banking and payment apps are also up there with the most downloaded and used apps. There was considerable reticence around online banking security when the concept was first mooted, but improved safety protocols have removed much of these earlier fears. 87% of consumers use their banking app at least once a month. While millennials are the most frequent users, accessing bank accounts using mobile apps is prevalent from Boomers to Gen Zers.
 Unique to the Canadian market. The apps that have skyrocketed in usage in recent years are e-wallets, including ApplePay, GooglePay, PayPal and the like. Many people now do not even consider taking a plastic card or cash with them on a night out or a trip into town to buy a meal at their favourite bar or restaurant. Everything they need is on their phone. No wallet full of dollar bills, just a charged-up phone, and they can pay for everything with a tap and a little bit of face recognition wizardry. Canadians are also fond of using Interac e-transfers to move money around. This service allows them to send and receive money instantly after registering with an email address or mobile phone number. It is so familiar to Canadians that it is sometimes surprising to remember that it is unique to the Canadian market.
 Apps are leading the way in accessing information. Apps are used for every walk of life. You can book a holiday through Airbnb and check the weather in your hometown or on the other side of the world. Video and music streaming apps are now how we expect to access films and TV shows or listen to our top music artists and podcasts. If we do not know what song is playing, we can switch to Shazam to get the artist’s name, song title and lyrics. Apps are the key to endless entertainment and information, and we have not even brushed on retail opportunities in this article.
If there is something you want to do on your mobile, the chances are someone will have created an app for it.
 By Pepper Parr
February 1st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
To start, the current event at the Performing Arts Centre Community Theatre has had sold out in performances in Toronto and New York City and won the top prize in the drama category for the 2023 Governor General’s 2023 Literary Awards.
As You Like It – that Land acknowledgement
It was not a performance – it was an experience that everyone should have but, like cod liver oil – good for you but.
 We want the land back. Cliff Cardinal spends 90 minutes on a platform literally hammering his audience who at times became part of what he was saying.
The dialogue between Cardinal and about six people ended up with their walking out which was punctuated with f bombs being dropped all over the place.
The message was: Forget your lands acknowledgements, they are phony balony anyway – “we want our land back.” Roseland was the target.
From time to time an event is put on at the Performing Arts Centre that I want to review. Most of the time performances are for two days, often just one – which doesn’t give me much time to attend, write the review and get it up so people can decide if it is something they would like to attend.
I personally wondered – why did BPAC Executive Director Tammy Fox book this event?
Turns out she has known Cliff Cardinal for at least 15 years and during her time is as an agent she represented him.
As an aside – I’ll get to the point – when people read out a Land Acknowledgement during which they mispronounce some of the Indigenous words, I cringe and wonder why we do this. We say we care and then continue to treat the Indigenous like dirt.
Cliff Cardinal starts his 90 minute performance reading a Land Acknowledgement and then tells the audience that he is a mix of Cree and Metis heritage adding “we want our land back”.
That goes over like a bag of rocks with the all-white audience that chuckles mildly.
Less than fifteen minutes into the program Cardinal is dropping f bombs all over the place and inviting people to leave if they aren’t happy. It doesn’t take long before those who are unhappy become part of the show is as they bicker back and forth with Cardinal.
Titled “As You Like It; a Radical Retelling” it is a one man performance the audience becomes very much a part of what he has set out to do. The Indigenous people want the land back.
Cardinal’s performance is a mix of words, gesture, expression and movement. Collectively they stun, shock and have you laughing on occasion and leave you thinking about what you heard when you get home.
 Clifford Cardinal won the top prize in the drama category for the 2023 Governor General’s 2023 Literary Awards. The Catholics don’t get what they were expecting; Roseland is an apartheid state and his generation Cardinal explains is one of the first to have parents in some time.
Of the 7,000 unmarked graves – Cardinal wants to know who buried them, how did they die and why don’t the churches want to release the documents they have.
Someone must have kept records – the Germans certainly did.
When Cardinal speaks of a missing and believed to have been murdered Aboriginal woman he adds that missing Aboriginal woman have become biodegradable.
This is a performance that has to be seen. When I hear mention of Truth and Reconciliation I respond with – yes – but Truth first.
Cliff Cardinal makes the best attempt I’ve seen at the Truth part.
I had an opportunity to speak to him for a couple of minutes after the performance. We had to be outside the building – Cardinal smokes and vapes – almost at the same time.
 It was not a performance – it was an experience. He was wiped, totally drained of any energy, wanting me to ask him questions.
I didn’t have any for him but I did tell him that he had moved the needle.
Go – take in the performance and get ready for an experience.
Tammy Fox will tell you that theatre is there to entertain – to challenge you and bring new perspectives to the way you usually see things. This is the best event she has booked in the years she has been the BPAC Executive Director
Thu Feb 1, 2024 at 7:30pm
Fri Feb 2, 2024 at 7:30pm
Sat Feb 3, 2024 at 2pm
Sat Feb 3, 2024 at 7:30pm
Sun Feb 4, 2024 at 2pm
Ticket Prices
Regular: $49.50 (All-in)
Member: $44.50 (All-in)
Order online
By Staff
February 1st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Yesterday Burlington Director of Transit Catherine Baldelli was the guest speaker at a luncheon at St. Luke’s Anglican church speaking about transit issues.
 Director of Transit speaking to a group on transit issues a number of months ago. She spoke to a community luncheon group yesterday. She is reported to have said that the John Street Transit terminal washrooms were closed to the public because too many people were using them. We have not been able to confirm that Ms Badelli actually made that statement.
Bfast (Burlington for Accessible Sustainable Transit) meets regularly with Transit management and have said they will bring this up during their February 8th meeting.
Which is more than ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns is doing for transit users.
In time, someone somewhere will do the right thing and a washroom will be available to the public.
By Staff
February 1st, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
Henniges Automotive Holdings Inc. says it will close its Burlington, Ont., plant which makes vehicle sealing systems by the end of the year.
 Located on Fairview, west of Appleby Line, it occupies the building which was the former Sanvik manufacturing plant.
The company employs 220 people who are represented by the Workers United Canada Council.
Henniges Automotive say they will consolidate its operations to existing facilities and expects no disruption in supplying existing or future programs.
By optimizing its footprint it will continue to be competitive and support its customers.
Henniges Automotive makes sealing systems for doors, windows, trunks, lift gates, sunroofs and hoods as well as encapsulated glass systems for automakers.
It has facilities in North America, Europe and Asia and has more than 9,000 employees worldwide.
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