 By Gazette Staff
September 21st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
It was about eight years ago when then Ward 1 Councillor Rick Craven told hos constituents that the way to get a supermarket built in the Aldershot community was for youn couples to have more babies – that suggestion didn’ get much in the way of traction.
What has happened in Aldershot is development growth.
 One of the first major developments in Aldershot, thousands of people with nothing more than a postage stamp-sized park that is not yet in place.  Plains Road is dotted with six to eight mid-rise buildings. Starting in the west and working east, you have the huge Adi development referred to as Station West with a population of close to 2000 residents (with next to nothing in the way of playground space – that another story. Then there is
Drive along Plans Road and you see half a dozen five to eight storey structures in place and plans for even bigger developments.
 Former Treasure Hunt is scheduled to open as a No Frills in late November. A former discount store at 1035 Plains is being readied to become a No Frills store; a building permit has been issued. It is close in terms of proximity to an existing Fortinos – the two brands serve different markets; both are owned by Loblaws. The No Frills store is expected to open late in November.
The King Road development that is the early planning stages, will reshape Aldershot and pull the center focal point of Burlington to the West.
 The site runs from King Road in the East all the way to the Aldershot GO station in the West .”
 By Gazette Staff
September 21st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Ron Foxcroft was at a Burlington Community Foundation event last week, sitting beside Tiger Cats President Matt Afinec.
Stuck his hand out when I approached and said: “Pepper, the Tiger Cats are going to win the Grey Cup this year.”
With wins like this, Foxcroft might just be right.
Oskee Wee Wee“, the magic chant fans sing to exhort their team to victory.
 By Ray Rivers
September 20th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
After Dalton McGuinty was elected in 2003, one of the first things his government did was to develop Canadian/Ontario-made renewable energy. Solar systems were as much as 80% Canadian made. Canadian Solar, a private company established in 2001 became a global leader in renewable energy, and still is today.
 There are thousands of small solar panel installations like this across the province – they work very well and in many cases provide revenue for the owners. The solar panels for Ontario’s systems were manufactured largely by Canadian Solar in Guelph Ontario and the steel frames were locally sourced. Unfortunately McGuinty was accused of breaking international trade rules by demanding in-province manufacturing. The Harper government, who never supported renewable energy, presumably pressured McGuinty to discard his buy Ontario policies as violating GATT international trading rules (General Agreement on Trade and Tariffs).
Some twenty years later, GATT and it’s successor WTO (World Trade Organization) have become a sad joke. The so-called leader of the free world imposed tariffs and other trade restrictions willy-nilly to suit his mood of the day. He imposed 50% tariffs on everything Brazilian because his buddy there had been convicted for trying to stage a coup – ironically what Trump is alleged to have attempted on January 6th 2001.
 Canadian steel mills are among the best in the world. Keeping them alive is a critical part of realigning the Canadian economy. So Canada’s new prime minister is pushing ahead with a broad-based buy Canada policy. The steel industry hopes that this could move Canadian content of their products to 80% from its current 30% and help offset Trump’s whacking big steel tariffs. Carney is hoping for the buy Canadian policies to be in place by next year at the latest.
 The true story behind this photograph is yet to become public. Prime Minister Mark Carney with Chrystia Freeland as she ends her political career. Her memoirs should be fascinating. But a good place to start would be cancelling the loan the federal infrastructure bank is giving the BC government to purchase four Chinese built ferries. Shame on Premier Eby for not getting the message. He was one of the loudest critics of Trump’s tariffs yet allowed BC ferries to develop an acquisition tender which effectively excluded Canadian ship builders. There is an email trail indicating that Chrystia had almost gone almost postal with rage about the Chinese aspect of this project. Perhaps that why she thought it a good time to leave.
No premier made more noise about against the tariffs than Ontario’s Doug Ford. But his highest priority has long been to build an American led mini-nuclear facility. And once built it will require a steady diet of imported American enriched nuclear fuel for its twenty or thirty year life cycle. That is if it even lasts that long. It is first off the block with untested technology and expected to generate more nuclear waste than the current Candu reactors. No other nation is interested in this kind of reactor- why is Ford?
 Doug Ford’s highest priority has long been to build an American-led mini-nuclear facility. And this experiment will take longer to get into production and will cost an estimated two to eight times more per kWh than the renewable wind and solar Ford killed in his first term. So one has to wonder why Mark Carney would even allow this pig of a project to make into the first five major projects for consideration under Bill C5.
Perhaps Carney is catering to these premiers just in the interests of keeping them onside. I mean they talk a good story about buying Canadian but are full of it when it comes to walking the talk, Still, sucking up to these hypocrites may keep Carney in their favour for the short run but risks destroying his credibility and our national unity in the longer term. Just tell them no!
 Ray Rivers, a Gazette Contributing Editor, writes regularly applying his more than 25 years as a federal bureaucrat to his thinking. Rivers was once a candidate for provincial office in Burlington. He was the founder of the Burlington citizen committee on sustainability at a time when climate warming was a hotly debated subject. Ray has a post graduate degree in economics that he earned at the University of Ottawa. Tweet @rayzrivers
Background links:
Big Five Projects Canadian Solar BC Ferries Eby Complaint Ford’s Folly –
 By Pepper Parr
September 20th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 There was an item in the news feed we get from BurlingtonGreen that was much different than what we usually get.
An organization that goes under the name: Drawing the Line. It is international in scope. The opening line goes like this:
Most of us can’t make ends meet – wages are low, rent is sky-high, groceries are unaffordable. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Carney has ordered a 15% cut to our public services while billionaires and corporations get richer off our suffering. Corporate elites attack the working class, particularly Black, Indigenous and racialized people, women, migrants, disabled, queer and trans people, and the unemployed. This isn’t an accident – it’s corporate rule designed to extract wealth from working people. We refuse to accept poverty while the wealthy hoard billions. We call on the federal government to tax the ultra-rich, end corporate subsidies, and invest in the affordable housing, food, healthcare, transit, education, arts and culture, public services and good jobs that our communities need to thrive.
Our future is on the line, and people everywhere are rising up to demand climate justice, peace, and real democracy. In Hamilton, we’re drawing the line for a better world: with clean energy for all, protection for people and nature, and accountability. The Hamilton event will take place in Gore Park. There isn’t going to be an event in Burlington
This is more than a single mobilization. It is an invitation to community groups and social movements across the country to unite, to learn from each other, and to form and strengthen coalitions that will continue to build beyond September 20th.
Congratulations to Burlington Green for making this available. It will be some time before Burlington holds events like this – the city sees itself as just too polite to raise its voice.
For those who are interested, you can sign up for updates HERE
 By Gazette Staff
September 19th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Site preparation works and fencing – Sept. 15 – Nov. 30, 2025
The City has been informed that Millcroft Golf Course construction sites near Millcroft Park Drive and Country Club Drive will undergo site preparation work beginning this fall.
 Some of the fencing that is already in place. According to information provided to the City by the developer, the following work is expected between Sept. 15 and Nov. 30, 2025, weather permitting:
- Additional fencing will be installed on site. This means all non-essential entrances, including those along Country Club Drive and Millcroft Park Drive, will be closed, with fencing added at select entry points.
Some other site preparation activities are planned and expected in the near future, but still require City permits.
Future updates include:
- installation of sediment control measures
- stripping and removing surplus topsoil
- excavating and hauling material between the parcels
- placement of fill material to prepare the lands for site servicing.
 There is fencing in place to protect trees all over the site. As part of this work, residents may expect additional noise, dust and mud in and around the construction area.
The City understands residents’ requests for advance notice about work that may cause impacts to the nearby neighbourhood.
While the City will continue to share updates when information is provided to us, Millcroft Greens, as the lead on this private development, will also provide advance notice of future site activities, including timing and potential impacts such as noise.
Questions about this work should be directed to Millcroft Greens:
 By Pepper Parr
September 19th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Citizens get to see the Blue Print for the City Budget – Actual Budget goes public on the 24th of October
The first of the six budget meetings that will be held in each city ward took place Thursday night at the Haber Community Centre.
Thirteen people were reported to have taken part.
 Mayor Meed Ward took the meeting through a 40-page document called the Budget Blue Print..
 Mayor Meed Ward and Councillor Paul Sharman explaining the budget to a small audience. When it came to explaining the numbers, Sharman did all the talking. Ward 5 Councillor Paul Sharman stood beside Mayor Meed Ward throughout the 90 minute meeting. Sharman pointed out that he is an accountant (not sure that he actually has a designation)and could explain the details for those who needed help. Mayor Meed Ward has never been a strong numbers person.
We will publish an exchange of views between Ward 4 resident Eric Stern and Councillor Sharman on some of the budget numbers in a separate article.
Sharman sees the process the city goes through as a Tax bill versus Budget – different things. It is not more complex than that.
Actually, it is more complex than that.
Set out below are two tables. The first is where the money comes from, where it is going and what the tax increase is in terms of dollars and percentages.
The second table is the timeline the budget process will follow.
 By Norma Williamson
September 19th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Withdrawing money from an online casino shouldn’t feel mysterious or complicated. When properly done, it is safe, transparent, and quick. The following guide shows exactly how to withdraw money from online casino platforms safely. This article covers everything from verifying your account to optimizing for speed, avoiding pitfalls, and choosing the best options based on your goals.
Understanding the Basics
When wondering how to withdraw money from online casino, the first step that you need to take is visiting the websites cashier or banking system. In most cases you’ll need to:
Ensure your casino is registered and controlled in reputable jurisdictions such as Malta, the UK, or Gibraltar. For extra peace of mind, check trusted industry media, where operators are reviewed and unreliable ones are flagged.
How big online gambling has grown: by 2025, almost 1 in 5 adults around the world will have placed Internet bets, almost 882 million people, many of them mainstream and with real-world impacts.
For players starting with small stakes, spending less upfront can still offer full withdrawal flexibility, consider trying a casino 5$ deposit site and platform. These sites usually allow you to deposit with only five dollars, entertain, and test casino websites while spending very little money.
E-wallets also make it easier to manage your gambling budget, keeping funds separate from daily expenses, a big help for responsible play.
Skill vs. Chance
 Slots are purely luck. Although withdrawing money is a matter of logistics and not a game on its own, by wise game selection you can win. The game Slots relies mostly on luck; playing games such as poker or blackjack leaves the potential to play a strategy. No matter which you choose, it is important to know the terms of bonuses and what is required to be bet; at most casinos, you cannot withdraw money until you roll over the bonuses.
Remember:
- There are withdrawal limits that could restrict the maximum cash out that you could have on a day or any amount on a monthly basis.
- The charges of processing can consume your earnings; read conditions.
- The initial minimum withdrawal monitoring tends to be 20-50 dollars according to method.
Budget and Time Commitment
Establish some restrictions for yourself: set a limit (this could be $100 in winnings) at which you will cause yourself to withdraw in order to mold it into a habit, not something you think about at the end of the day. This helps avoid rashly reinvesting. Players with even tighter budgets often begin on 3$ deposit casino platforms, where they can try out their Lady Luck. You’ll be amazed by the fun you’ll have with only three bucks. These platforms provide Canadian and other gamblers with a great experience.
Long-Term Profitability
Online casinos run on the house edge, and one is not assured to make uninterrupted profit. You can maximize returns, however, by:
- Preferring high RTP (Return to Player) slots.
- Withdrawing, such as using a method that does not charge a withdrawal fee.
- Doing profit extraction rather than reinvesting it.
Choosing What Suits You Best
Which is the best withdrawal procedure to use will depend on your priorities regarding the type of speed you wish, the level of security, convenience, and cost. E-wallets, such as PayPal or Skrill, are usually the most convenient in case you cherish gaining immediate access to your winnings. They are popular with many players, as transactions can be handled in a span of 24 hours and separate casino money and regular living expenses. Keep in mind, bank transfers are the best way to go when the recipient desires the best possible security and is not in a hurry to receive the money. They will typically take 2-7 days of business; however, they are very reliable and universally accepted.
 Bear in mind that cryptocurrencies vary in value, so your withdrawal can also gain or be lost before it finds its place in your wallet. Ensuring that you play with crypto is becoming more popular among tech-friendly players. Transactions can clear within less than an hour at certain platforms, an experience that is unmatched in speed. Nevertheless, it is important to bear in mind that cryptocurrencies vary in value, so your withdrawal can also gain or be lost before it finds its place in your wallet.
Statistics will also reveal that tastes differ: although a significant portion of deposits is still carried out through bank transfer, e-wallet withdrawals are also increasing more and more due to the convenience they offer. It is a shrewd consideration to choose a way that fits your lifestyle; that is, whether it is focusing on instant or minimal fees or just sticking with the time-tested traditional banking. However, eventually, the best choice is the choice that will leave you in control of your wins.
To learn more, you could read regulatory reports by agencies such as the UK Gambling Commission or find out independent media sources like Burlington Gazette, where you can find additional information about your preferred topics.
Final Word
Learning how to withdraw money from online casino safely is just as important as understanding how to play the games themselves. It is a thrill only after the money ends up in your hands and you feel that the victory is all yours. With the right withdrawal technique and the cautious consideration of boundaries and charges, you preserve every penny and every tranquillity of mind.
Various players will instinctively tend to respond to various options. E-wallets are fast, bank transfers are reliable, and crypto is creative and efficient. The most important thing is to match the process of withdrawal to your own choices, whether it is to gain money as fast as possible, have maximum security, or spend less.
It is also important to draw boundaries for yourself. Having a sense of responsible gambling involves more than planning deposits. Now that online gambling has become a worldwide event where hundreds of millions of people take part in it, effective withdrawal strategies can make the process more enjoyable, harmless, and quite easy. In conclusion, the most important ingredients are knowledge and discipline; that is, these two items will make your gaming fun and your income guaranteed.
 By Jane Rushton
September 19, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Online gambling offers excitement and the potential for rewards, but it also carries risks, including unregulated platforms, unfair games, and unreliable payment processes. For players seeking a safe and enjoyable experience, knowing which casinos are trustworthy is essential. A professional review platform serves as a reliable guide by evaluating online casinos on key safety measures, including licensing, security protocols, game fairness, and responsible gambling practices.
 Make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls. Users can also discover specific high-value promotions, such as the Sunrise Slots $500 bonus, which provides an excellent opportunity to explore games and potentially win real money while minimizing personal risk. By providing clear, unbiased information, the platform empowers players to make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.
With detailed insights and actionable advice, users can engage with online casinos confidently, focusing on entertainment and rewards while minimizing the risks associated with unsafe or dishonest operators. By combining safety evaluation with guidance on valuable bonuses, the service ensures a secure and rewarding online gambling experience.
Evaluating Casino Licensing
A fundamental aspect of safe online gambling is proper licensing and regulatory compliance. Casinos operating under reputable authorities are more likely to maintain fair games, secure financial transactions, and transparent operations. Without this oversight, players risk engaging with platforms that may manipulate game outcomes, delay or withhold payouts, or fail to protect personal information. Many users find it challenging to verify licensing and regulatory status independently, making a trustworthy guide essential.
 Everything in the gaming business is regulated: Make sure where you gamble is regulated by a known regulator with a strong reputation. A professional review platform investigates licensing details, regulatory adherence, and operational transparency for each casino. By highlighting platforms regulated by recognized authorities such as the UK Gambling Commission, Malta Gaming Authority, or Curacao eGaming, the service ensures that players are aware of legitimate options and can avoid unlicensed or dubious operators. In addition, the platform explains how regulations protect users, including requirements for fair gameplay, secure financial transactions, responsible gambling measures, and regular audits.
This level of transparency reduces uncertainty, allowing players to make informed decisions with confidence. By selecting casinos that meet international safety standards, users can engage in online gambling knowing that their personal and financial data are secure and that gameplay outcomes are fair, creating a safe, reliable, and enjoyable experience.
Ensuring Game Fairness
Fairness in games and the integrity of software are crucial for a positive online casino experience. Players need assurance that outcomes are unbiased, random, and free from manipulation. Unfortunately, not all operators maintain these standards, which can lead to frustration, distrust, and loss of confidence in online gambling platforms. Understanding the reliability of software and the fairness of games is essential for making informed decisions and enjoying a secure gaming experience.
 You want to be sure that the software behind the site you are using was written by reliable people. The review service assesses software providers, random number generators, and payout consistency to ensure fairness. By presenting this information in a clear and accessible format, players can evaluate the quality of a casino before committing funds. Key aspects considered include:
- Software provider reputation: Trusted developers are less likely to produce biased or faulty games.
- Random number generator (RNG) verification: Ensures that game outcomes are genuinely random.
- Payout consistency: Reliable platforms maintain predictable and fair reward distributions.
- Game transparency: Players are informed about rules, odds, and how wins are calculated.
Focusing on fairness and game quality allows players to enjoy immersive experiences without concerns over manipulation, enhancing both trust and enjoyment. This approach creates a secure and satisfying online gambling environment where users can play confidently.
Analyzing Security Measures
 Make sure you are gambling at a location that gives you the security you need. Data security and financial protection are paramount in online gambling. Players need confidence that deposits, withdrawals, and personal information are handled securely. Unfortunately, not all casinos implement robust security measures, which can expose users to fraud, data breaches, or unauthorized transactions. Without proper safeguards, players risk losing both funds and sensitive personal information, undermining the enjoyment of online gaming.
A professional review resource evaluates encryption protocols, secure payment processing systems, and overall cybersecurity practices. By highlighting platforms that adhere to international security standards, the service ensures that players can engage in gambling activities safely and with peace of mind. Transparent payout policies, clear terms for deposits and withdrawals, and responsive customer support further enhance confidence in the platform’s reliability.
Players can also follow updates, tips, and exclusive insights from trusted sources, such as the , to stay informed about secure casinos and new promotions. With these safeguards and resources in place, users can focus fully on entertainment and rewards, knowing that both their funds and personal information are protected at all times, creating a safe and enjoyable online gambling experience.
By Pepper Parr
September 18th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
We reported earlier this week that we had been advised that Natalie Pierre, MPP for Burlington, was going to resign.
 We were advised earlier today that Pierre had told other media that she was not planning on resigning.
Before the February election, Pierre said she was not going to run in that election – then changed her mind and did run for the seat she held.
She did not take part in the all-candidate debate that took place at Port Nelson United Church.
 The seat reserved for Natalie Pierre at the all-candidate meeting in February was never filled. The Gazette reached out to Pierre’s office for a comment before we published our story. There was no response.
A simple email response would have spiked that story.
We may have to wait until Pierre changes her mind again.
 By Norman Coles
September 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
I treat the board as a quick break I can start and finish on time. A ball drops, bounces through a set of pegs, and lands in a slot with a posted multiplier. Because the path is random, I focus on what I actually control: tiny stakes, short blocks, clear rules, and a clean exit. I keep a simple log after each block—stake, number of drops, result, mood. That one line helps me start the next round calmer and avoid myths. I also set a short timer so the session stays light. When the timer rings, I stop even on a win; that one habit protects tomorrow’s focus and makes this hobby easy to repeat without stress.
 How I set up a clean, quick session How I set up a clean, quick session
The first minute is for comfort: screen brightness, sound off, and a row count I can read at a glance. I want a layout that shows stake, recent results, and the payout map in one view so I don’t dig through menus. After that warmup I run a tiny demo on a trusted hub, and if I decide to test live with a few drops, I use a simple entry like plinko casino mid-sentence in my notes as a reminder that each drop costs what I choose and nothing more. I keep the first stake small enough to forget by bedtime. If I see stutter, fuzzy labels, or hidden toggles, I switch fast. A clean loop reduces mistakes that look like luck but are actually rushed hands, and that clarity is what I’m after.
Three numbers and one timer
Before the first drop I write three numbers on a sticky note: stake per drop, number of drops, and two stop lines—one for gains, one for losses. The note stays in view, so I don’t renegotiate mid-run. If the board offers low, medium, and high risk tiers, I start in the middle and hold that choice for the whole block. When I feel tilt—tight jaw, quick clicks, restless eyes—I pause, sip water, and either finish calmly or end early. I am not “beating” a pattern; I’m keeping a routine that fits busy days and leaves me clear-headed for the next task. That’s the point of a short session.
Here’s the small checklist I run after a long paragraph or two, never at the start:
- Keep one tiny stake for the entire first block.
- Set gain and loss lines you will not cross.
- Use a timer and stop when it rings, even on a win.
After block one, I audit the flow: did the board accept input quickly, did the history log update instantly, did the cashout page load without delay? If yes, I repeat the same numbers for one more short block and call it a day. If any part felt sticky, I fix it or I walk. Small, repeatable steps turn scattered urges into a simple, repeatable hobby.
What I expect from a fair board and a tidy app
Good design makes itself invisible. I tap, the ball falls, the result posts, and I can act at once. Clear text beats loud themes. Buttons should sit within easy reach on a phone so my thumb doesn’t stretch. A reliable history tab with timestamps lets me audit a block later. I like help pages that explain random draws and payouts in plain language. Deposits and cashouts should feel boring—in the best way—no surprise screens, no odd loops. If any piece of the flow feels vague, I leave before the next drop. I also try both portrait and landscape on mobile to see where the drop button feels natural; fewer mis-taps means fewer “losses” that were really input errors.
Speed, clarity, and support
Speed keeps the loop short and helps me stick to limits. Clarity means I can read the payout map and my last drops without guessing. Support is the safety net when something odd happens. I run a tiny pipeline test—one small deposit, a handful of drops, one small cashout—and judge by how ordinary it feels. A short, specific reply from help earns trust; a wall of canned lines does not. For reference, I keep this table near my keyboard; it follows a calm paragraph so it doesn’t jump in cold:
| Signal |
What I look for |
Why it matters |
| Quick start |
A drop begins within seconds |
Short prep preserves focus |
| Plain terms |
License note and RNG policy in clear text |
Openness builds trust |
| Fast help |
Specific answers that solve issues |
Problems end before they grow |
Once a board passes these checks, I give it modest time and keep my plan stable. If it fails, I close it rather than argue with it. Smooth tools protect my limits by removing friction that nudges bad decisions. Fancy visuals don’t matter if they slow the interface or hide key buttons. I want brisk admin and a lively ball—nothing else.
After another paragraph, I’ll add one more compact list, spaced away from the last one:
- Try demo first for layout, speed, and mute settings.
- Run one micro live block to test history and receipts.
- Save a screenshot of terms and your first receipt for the folder.
Reading randomness without myths
I describe the board to myself as a chain of small forks I cannot steer. That framing keeps me from chasing the idea of a perfect drop point. I still vary drop starts to keep the act playful, but I don’t treat those choices as a strategy. Words guide behavior, so my notes avoid “due,” “hot,” or “cold.” I write about inputs I control: stake, block length, time of day, posture. When I fix those, the session becomes a quick, focused task instead of a mood ride. I also treat energy like a resource; late blocks with low focus tend to stretch, so I move them earlier when I can. The goal is a loop I can run and end on time, not a streak I try to extend.
 Handling streaks without chasing
Streaks cluster. A quick run of wins tempts me to scale up; a run of misses tempts me to recover fast. Both urges break the plan. I defend the plan with rules set while calm. When I hit the gain line, I pocket some and finish the block at the same or smaller stake. When I hit the loss line, I stop for the day—no “one last drop.” I also track tilt: rushed clicks, tight shoulders, shallow breath. If those show up, I reset with water and a short walk. Fixing the body often fixes the play better than more drops do. For readers who like a single, neutral landing page to try a short demo and a tiny live block, I point to this simple entry I keep bookmarked: plinko.
Here, spaced away from the last list, is a final compact trio that I use when streaks try to steer me:
- Write gain and loss lines before the first drop.
- Pocket early and avoid scaling mid-block on a hunch.
- End on the timer; a calm exit is the win that compounds.
A weekly rhythm and a lightweight log
I play three or four short blocks per week, never back to back on heavy days. Morning coffee fits five drops; lunch fits ten; evenings are optional and shorter. If I feel rushed, I skip the day. This stays a hobby by staying small. I rotate devices to see what suits my hands. On desktop I aim for readable slots and a drop button that stays put after resize. On phone I check whether the button sits under a natural thumb arc and whether haptics help or distract. I revisit terms monthly and retire any build that adds clutter or delay. Moving on is faster than adapting to pain points, and the habit of moving on keeps the routine clear.
A template that actually helps
My log is plain text so it opens fast. I name files by date and group blocks by morning, noon, or evening to track energy. Instead of “luck good” or “luck bad,” I write “focus steady” or “focus low.” One line per block: device, row count, stake, drops, result, mood, friction (if any), and whether I ended on time. On Sundays I skim the page and choose one small tweak for the next week—stake, block length, or time of day—and change nothing else. That single-change rule lets cause and effect show up without noise. If I add a new board, I run the same demo-to-live pattern and compare notes to my baseline. The habit matters more than a hot run, and the habit is what improves the next ten minutes.
I also keep language clean when I talk with friends about this hobby. I rarely say “plinko game” out loud; I usually say “the board,” because that phrasing removes drama. If we play together, we set limits before starting and share one lesson after, not during. Mid-drop advice adds noise; post-session notes add learning. When the timer rings, I stretch, drink water, and step away from the screen. The board will be there tomorrow; my attention is the part I protect. And if an app starts to creep in extra friction, I retire it early rather than tolerate it. A simple routine deserves simple tools.
I’m closing with a direct nudge because this works best when you try it. Pick a readable board, set one tiny stake, plan ten calm drops, and run a short demo before a single live block. Keep a one-line log—stake, drops, mood—then end on your timer. If the loop felt smooth, repeat tomorrow; if it felt rushed, adjust one thing and try again. Start now, and send me that single-line note so we can shape your next short run together.
 By Gazette Staff
September 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Region issued a report yesterday on problems at the Halton Family Health Centre Walk-in Clinic located at 2951 Walkers Line where needles were improperly used on occasions where a local freezing was being applied.
The original report said:
Following an investigation, Halton Region Public Health identified improper infection prevention and control practices involving the use of an unsterile needle with a multidose vial of local anesthetic medication (freezing) between January 1, 2019, and July 17, 2025. This practice may pose a risk of cross-contamination and transmission of infections. The investigation determined this was likely not an isolated incident, meaning it may have occurred previously during the identified time period between 2019 and 2025. This IPAC Lapse only includes the walk-in clinic during the specified time period and does not include procedures or care received at the family practice physician offices associated with the Halton Family Health Centre clinic.
Halton Family Health Centre Walk-in Clinic has taken immediate corrective measures to ensure all necessary infection control measures are being met. Public health continues to monitor the situation to ensure compliance and patient safety. There are no risks to the patients at this time, and the clinic is open.
The Region has since updated the report to say:
 This public notice has been updated to provide clarity and ensure an accurate understanding of the infection prevention and control lapse. It is important to note that the same needle was not used continuously throughout the period, rather appropriate infection prevention and control measures were not followed when using multi does vials over the time period identified.
While the risk remains low, Halton Region Public Health continues to encourage anyone who visited the walk-in clinic during the specific timeframe and received a needle for the purposes of “freezing”, to seek precautionary testing and speak with their healthcare provider.
 By Gazette Staff
September 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Hailed as a “children’s musical star” (National Post), Chris McKhool is one of Canada’s most popular musicians for young people.
This fall, Chris is bringing three PAY-WHAT-YOU-CAN performances to BPAC’s Studio Theatre.
These “cushion concerts” will have an area for kids to sit up close to the stage, creating a relaxed environment for everyone to enjoy!
Kids and their parents scat-sing, become a rhythm section, and join Chris and friends on stage to play rare percussion instruments from around the world!
There are three performance dates: September 28th; November 16th, December 13th – all are at 1:00 pm in the Studio Theatre.
Tickets for Fiddle Fire on September 28th HERE
Tickets for Earth Sea Fire on November 16th HERE
Tickets for Celebrate on December 13th HERE
This award-winning show is fully interactive, as kids join the band on stage and sing songs about taking care of our planet.
Chris celebrates the multicultural mosaic of our country with songs about the many traditions honoured each year across Canada.
By Jana Baert
September 18th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Running a small business today means wearing many hats: manager, accountant, marketer, and often IT administrator all at once. Technology can make this easier, but with so many tools available, it can be hard to know where to start. The good news is that a few smart, affordable investments can have a major impact on productivity, security, and customer trust.
Streamline access and security
One of the biggest challenges for small businesses is keeping digital accounts secure while still allowing employees to work efficiently. Using an enterprise password manager is an easy way to solve both problems. It stores credentials in one secure place, generates strong passwords, and makes it simple to add or remove users as your team changes. This small investment protects sensitive data while saving valuable time for business owners.
 Cloud platforms make it easy for teams to work together, even when they are not in the same place. Move to the cloud for collaboration
Cloud-based tools are no longer just for big companies. They give small businesses access to the same level of flexibility and reliability. From shared calendars to real-time document editing, cloud platforms make it easy for teams to work together, even when they are not in the same place. Automatic backups are an added benefit, helping prevent data loss and downtime.
Automate routine tasks
Repetitive processes like sending invoices, scheduling social media posts, or tracking inventory can take up hours every week. Affordable automation tools can handle these tasks in the background, freeing entrepreneurs to focus on strategy and customer service. Even basic solutions can reduce errors and keep operations running smoothly.
Protect customer data
Trust is one of the most valuable assets a local business can build. A data breach can quickly damage that relationship. Simple measures like encrypting sensitive files, keeping software updated, and training staff to spot phishing emails go a long way. Pairing these habits with a reliable enterprise password manager adds another layer of security, ensuring that accounts are not left vulnerable to attackers.
Invest in your team’s knowledge
Technology is most effective when employees know how to use it. Consider offering short training sessions on digital tools, cybersecurity basics, and best practices for handling data. Empowered staff make fewer mistakes and feel more confident using the systems you put in place.
 A reliable enterprise password manager adds another layer of security, ensuring that accounts are not left vulnerable to attackers. Tech that works as hard as you do
The right tools do not need to be expensive or complicated. By focusing on a handful of smart investments — cloud collaboration, automation, data protection, and enterprise password management — local entrepreneurs can run more efficient, resilient businesses. Each step strengthens operations and builds trust with customers, helping small businesses thrive in a competitive market.
 By Burlington Gazette
September 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
What can women who aspire to become chief executive officers (CEOs) in America’s “Bible Belt” expect from their careers?
“Traditional theories suggest religion reinforces patriarchal norms, potentially limiting women’s rise to the top,” says Brock University Professor of Accounting Samir Trabelsi.
 But Trabelsi and his team turned that stereotype on its head in their study, “Religiosity and Gender Dynamics in Executive Leadership: Impact on CEO Appointments and Pay Disparities,” published June 1 in the Journal of Business Ethics.
Trabelsi and then-master’s student Maryam Vashahi (MSc ’23), the study’s co-author, found no significant relationship between local religiosity and the appointment of female CEOs.
Even more surprising, the researchers say, is that women who become CEOs in highly religious states earned more than their male peers.
“Women continue to be significantly underrepresented in CEO positions, making it essential to understand the factors that either create barriers or open pathways for their advancement,” says Vashahi.
The team analyzed 2,936 CEO transitions in U.S.-listed firms between 1998 and 2021 along with religiosity measures from the Pew Research Center.
Religiosity is defined as being the expression of beliefs and practices in institutionalized religion and their influence on social behaviours and cultural norms in local settings.
The researchers expected that firms in states with stronger religious cultures would be less likely to appoint women CEOs, and that if women did attain the role, they would earn less than men.
 Instead, the findings revealed an “exceptionalism premium,” says Trabelsi.
“Because female CEOs are rare in these environments, they’re seen as extraordinary and are compensated accordingly,” he says.
The study also revealed a paradox: women CEOs continued to be paid less than their male counterparts in more secular states.
“We suggest some firms may promote women to signal diversity but fail to back that up with equitable pay, a practice sometimes described as performative diversity,” says Trabelsi.
He also points out that both male and female CEOs in religious states earned less overall than their peers in secular states.
“So even though a woman CEO might out-earn a man in Alabama or Mississippi, she’s still likely earning less than a woman CEO in California or New York,” he says.
Another key finding was that companies with more women on their boards were significantly more likely to appoint a woman CEO, underscoring governance as a powerful lever for equity, he says.
 There was a time when shares of public companies were traded in this building.. There was never a single woman on the trading floor. Changes do take place – even in the American Bible Belt. In Canada, Trabelsi says only about five per cent of TSX-listed companies had a woman CEO as of 2024, and Canadian women executives still earn about 40 per cent less in total compensation than their male counterparts on average.
“From a governance perspective, Canadian regulators and boards could strengthen diversity and pay equity initiatives — for example, through enhanced transparency and leadership diversity targets — to help more women reach CEO roles and ensure they are compensated fairly once there,” he says.
Trabelsi says the research team, which also included Professor of Organizational Behaviour and Human Resource Management Dave Bouckenooghe and Professor of Accounting Kareen Brown, hopes the study will spark broader conversations about governance and gender equity.
“Breaking the glass ceiling is only the first step,” he says. “The real challenge is ensuring women are supported, compensated fairly and empowered once they get there.”
 By Gazette Staff
September 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Public Notice: Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) Lapse at Walk-In Clinic in Burlington
Halton Region Public Health is notifying the public of an infection prevention and control (IPAC) lapse at the Halton Family Health Centre Walk-in Clinic located at 2951 Walkers Line in Burlington (corner of Walkers Line and Dundas Street).
Halton Region Public Health investigation
Following an investigation, Halton Region Public Health identified improper infection prevention and control practices involving the use of an unsterile needle with a multidose vial of local anesthetic medication (freezing) between January 1, 2019, and July 17, 2025. This practice may pose a risk of cross-contamination and transmission of infections. The investigation determined this was likely not an isolated incident, meaning it may have occurred previously during the identified time period between 2019 and 2025. This IPAC Lapse only includes the walk-in clinic during the specified time period and does not include procedures or care received at the family practice physician offices associated with the Halton Family Health Centre clinic.
Halton Family Health Centre Walk-in Clinic has taken immediate corrective measures to ensure all necessary infection control measures are being met. Public health continues to monitor the situation to ensure compliance and patient safety. There are no risks to the patients at this time, and the clinic is open.
Important instructions for patients of the Halton Family Health Centre Walk-in Clinic
Patients who visited the Halton Family Centre Walk-in Clinic between January 1, 2019 and July 17, 2025, and received a treatment requiring local anesthetic by injection (freezing) may have been exposed to blood and blood-borne infections. Examples of procedures that may require local anesthetics include but are not limited to:
- laceration repairs (stitches for cuts or tears of the skin)
- intrauterine Device (IUD) insertions
- endometrial biopsies
- skin biopsies
- removal of lumps and bumps
- partial or complete nail removal
- joint injections or aspirations
Although the risk of infection is low, Halton Region Public Health is advising patients who received a procedure that may require local anesthetic by injection (freezing) at the Halton Family Health Centre Walk-in Clinic between January 1, 2019, and July 17, 2025 to:
- speak with their healthcare provider or visit a walk-in clinic to discuss testing for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV
- download and print a copy of the laboratory requisition and physician letter to bring to the healthcare provider
- not visit a hospital emergency department, as it is not necessary
“Protecting the health and safety of the public and patients is a top priority. Our Public Health team continues to actively monitor the situation and ensure compliance is maintained,” said Dr. Deepika Lobo, Medical Officer of Health for Halton Region. “While the risk of transmission is low, we are ensuring impacted individuals have the information they need to complete precautionary testing.”
To learn more about this IPAC lapse, please visit the IPAC Lapse Disclosure webpage.
Patients of the clinic who have specific questions about the lapse are asked to call Halton Region Public Health at 311, 905-825-6000 or toll-free 1-866-442-5866
By Diana Kharchenko
September 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Researchers in multiple countries are advancing stem cell trial research aimed at repairing the inner ear to restore hearing in people with tinnitus and neural hearing loss. The initial research investigations aim to determine if cochlear hair cells, which transform sound into brain signals, can be regenerated.
The 2022 JAMA Neurology review established that tinnitus impacts 14.4% of adults worldwide, resulting in more than 740 million cases, while severe tinnitus affects 2.3% of the population (JAMA Neurology). The available treatments, including hearing aids and cochlear implants, and sound therapy, provide symptom relief, but they cannot restore typical hearing function.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School’s Mass Eye and Ear used a drug-like cocktail to stimulate hair cell regeneration in mice, which shows promise for human clinical applications.
Dr. Zheng-Yi Chen from Harvard Medical School’s Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery department described hair cell regeneration in the inner ear as the ultimate goal of hearing research. The research shows that clinical applications are possible for the future (Harvard Medical School).
Advances in Regenerative Research
Tinnitus and many forms of neural hearing loss result from damage to cochlear hair cells or their neural connections. The therapy with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) works to establish a supportive environment for the body’s repair mechanisms by delivering growth factors and enhancing immune responses and microcirculation.
Traditional treatments, including hearing aids and cochlear implants, and medications, help millions of people, but they cannot fix the complete damage to the ear.
Dr. Chris Cunningham from the University of Pittsburgh (Eye & Ear Foundation) explained that these devices bring revolutionary life-changing benefits, yet they cannot restore normal hearing completely.
Many stem cell trial programs now focus on MSCs, adult multipotent stromal cells sourced from a patient’s tissue or donated placental and umbilical cord tissue. MSCs avoid the ethical concerns associated with embryonic stem cells and have a lower risk of immune rejection.
According to reviews in Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience (Warnecke et al., 2021) and Molecular Biology Reports (2020), MSCs have been shown to reduce inflammation, protect nerve cells, repair synaptic connections, and promote new blood vessel growth to improve circulation.
Global and Clinical Perspectives
 Scientists throughout the world continue to study cell-based hearing loss treatments in laboratories and clinics because they share a common goal of developing treatments that surpass symptom relief. Beyond university laboratories, some private clinics are also exploring regenerative approaches for tinnitus and neural hearing loss. The European clinic Swiss Medica operates among multiple facilities that provide stem cell therapy for tinnitus through MSCs. The clinic explains that these treatments work to decrease inflammation while defending auditory nerve structures and promoting tissue regeneration.
The U.S. medical institution AdventHealth initiated a Phase I/II clinical trial to evaluate autologous umbilical cord blood infusion for treating acquired hearing loss in children while focusing on safety and practicality. The MHRA granted approval to Rinri Therapeutics in 2025 for starting human trials of Rincell-1, which functions as a regenerative cell therapy to fix damaged auditory nerves.
Scientists throughout the world continue to study cell-based hearing loss treatments in laboratories and clinics because they share a common goal of developing treatments that surpass symptom relief.
Future Outlook
While early results are encouraging, experts emphasise that stem cell therapies for hearing disorders remain experimental.
According to a systematic review in the International Journal of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery (Ganchi, 2025), stem cell therapy shows promise for potentially curing congenital hearing loss via cochlear regeneration. However, significant hurdles in protocol development, long-term efficacy, and safety must still be addressed.
Conclusion
Recent developments in stem cell trials are shifting the treatment of tinnitus and neural hearing loss toward addressing the underlying damage rather than just managing symptoms. While still in trials, these regenerative therapies could significantly change the landscape of hearing restoration.
 By Tom Parkin
September 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Doug Ford’s “look harder” comment explains why Ontario has no jobs plan: because he denies there’s an unemployment problem.
There were 7,000 fewer job openings in Ontario at the end of June than March and there were more than 200,000 fewer openings than June 30, 2022, according to a Statistics Canada report released Tuesday morning.
The data comes just days after Ontario Premier Doug Ford dismissed job-searchers’ concerns in front of a downtown Toronto business audience.
 Doug Ford: “Young people who can’t find work aren’t looking “hard enough,” “It drives me nuts” when young people today say they can’t find work, Ford complained to the business crowd as they tucked into their lunch. “If you look hard enough” the jobs are there, the premier said.
But that’s not what the data shows.
Over 800,000 Ontarians were job-searching in August, according to StatsCan. That’s more than four times the 179,000 job openings reported as of June 30.
Vacancies have been trending down for three years, and now have fallen by more than half since June, 2022, when there were 378,000 Ontario job openings.
Currently, just 2.6 per cent of Ontario jobs are open, the second-worst rate among the provinces. Only in Newfoundland and Labrador are the odds worse for job-hunters.
British Columbia continues to be the best province for job-searchers with 3.3 per cent of jobs needing workers.
By Pepper Parr
September 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Community Foundation presented its Vital Statistics report Tuesday morning to a room at the Art Gallery that was well attended.
 The usual mention of the MP and the Mayor were made and then a panel discussion that included Joann Battaglis of First Ontario Credit Union; Garner Becket with the Conservation Halton Foundation, Christina Mulder, Director Burlington Food Bank and Catherine Villasenor of Home Suite Home. took place.
The most authentic panellist was Mulder, who was really blunt when she pointed out that the current rate of customer growth at the Food Bank is not sustainable.
In 2019 the Foodbank served 1985 people – in 2022 they served 3517. Since then, growth has exceeded 34% annually.
The panel was followed by having the people at the 15 or so tables in the room discuss what they had heard from the panel. The word “intersectionality” popped up a number of times – that one didn’t resonate with me.
The actual report was never presented – except for one page that gave grades (A, B, C or D) to different subjects that were mentioned in the report that was available online.
The data was solid, the people who did some of the research were more than credible. The number of responders to the survey work was on the low side – in the 250 range.
There were people in the room from various organizations that had well grounded understandings of what the issues were and the size of the challenges the city faces who didn’t get much in the way of an opportunity to speak to the room. Unfortunate.
The date and the range of people that were interviewed:
 By Pepper Parr
September 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
At some point, one hopes, City Council will begin focusing on the concerns and issues of the people that Live, Play and Work in Burlington.
Right now the mistakes and the downright incompetence that surrounds the allocation of limited swimming pool capacity in the city is hurting people.
 Burlington Aquatic Devilrays (BAD), a swimming club that has operated for 40 years, could be close to ending its existence.
It’s membership has plummeted – because the swimming pool space they used to have is no longer available to them.
Pool time has been given to an organization that operates in Hamilton, Waterdown, Dundas, Ancaster, and Stoney Creek.
Mayor Meed Ward and Councillors Galbraith, Kearns, Nisan, Stolte, Sharman and Bentivegna have gone mute. They are hiding behind the argument that Council has no business sticking its nose in procurement matters.
They have muzzled the President of the club.
Some have concerns about the quality of the management of BAD – in our conversations with that organization, we’ve seen nothing that is of serious concern. Keeping everyone happy is not as simple as it sounds.
Councillor Kearns has said she will ask Council to do an audit of the procedure that was followed in the allocation of swimming pool space. For a number of reasons that don’t make all that much sense, what some people thought was going to take place in September has been moved to October. There is no certainty that it will actually happen, and that would be unfortunate.
The people in Burlington who put in hours of volunteer time to run a swimming club are going to have to pressure City Council to reverse the decision that was made by the department that handles procurement matters. Council is in place to represent the needs and wishes of its citizens.
They need to be told to do the job they were hired to do.
By Stephen Attellier
September 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Canadian sports betting has transformed since single-event wagering became legal in August 2021. Ontario’s regulated online gambling market generated $825.8 million in gaming revenue between October and December 2024, while total wagers reached $22.7 billion during the same period. These figures represent a 25% increase in revenue and 32% growth in wagering compared to the third quarter of 2023.
Ontario Sets the Pace for Market Expansion
 Ontario operates differently from other provinces. The province launched its competitive market through iGaming Ontario in April 2022, allowing private operators to compete alongside the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation. Fifty operators now run 83 gaming websites in the province, serving approximately 997,000 active player accounts each quarter.
Monthly spending per active account averaged $277 in the third quarter of 2024, though first-quarter data showed this figure reaching $284, a 44.2% increase from the previous year. December 2024 saw online gambling spending hit $7.8 billion, beating November’s record by 4% and the previous December by 28%.
Sports betting, esports, proposition and novelty betting made up $3.4 billion of total wagers in the third quarter, accounting for 15% of all bets placed and generating $166 million in revenue. This represents 20% of total gaming revenue for the period. The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation maintains between 25% and 30% of the online gaming market share despite competition from private operators.
Provincial Market Variations and Regional Betting Patterns
The fragmented regulatory approach across Canadian provinces creates distinct betting environments that shape consumer behavior differently in each region. Ontario’s open market model contrasts sharply with government-controlled systems in British Columbia and Quebec, while sports betting in Canada varies considerably between Atlantic provinces operating through Atlantic Lottery Corporation and Prairie provinces maintaining their own lottery corporations.
These regional differences affect everything from available betting options to promotional offerings and odds competitiveness. Players in Ontario can choose from 50 different operators, while residents of Manitoba or Saskatchewan must use their provincial lottery corporation’s platform, resulting in average monthly spending patterns that range from $200 in monopoly markets to $284 in Ontario’s competitive environment.
Alberta Prepares for Market Opening
 Alberta introduced Bill 48, the iGaming Alberta Act, on March 26, 2025. The legislation would establish iGaming Alberta as a Crown corporation to oversee private operators, while the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis commission would handle regulation. Canadian Gaming Association CEO Paul Burns expects Alberta’s online gambling sector to become operational in the first quarter of 2026.
The timing of Alberta’s market launch could accelerate due to potential trade tariffs from the United States administration. Provincial officials are monitoring these developments while finalizing regulatory frameworks based on Ontario’s operational model.
Revenue Projections and Market Growth Patterns
Canada’s sports betting market generated $4,100.5 million in revenue during 2024. Market analysts project revenues will reach $8,757.2 million by 2030, representing a compound annual growth rate of 13.6% from 2025 through 2030. Online platforms generated the largest share of revenue in 2024 and continue showing the fastest growth rates among all betting channels.
Quarterly data reveals consistent expansion patterns. Third-quarter wagers increased 22% compared to the second quarter of 2024 and 32% compared to the third quarter of 2023. Gaming revenue grew 10% quarter-over-quarter and 25% year-over-year during the same periods.
Regulatory Developments and Enforcement Actions
Federal legislators are considering Bill S-269, which would restrict sports betting advertising. The proposed legislation would ban advertisements during primetime hours and live sporting events, prohibit certain promotional terms, including “bonus” and “odds boost,” and limit celebrity endorsements. The Senate adopted this bill on November 5, 2024, as part of establishing a national framework for regulating sports betting advertisements.
Law enforcement continues monitoring illegal gambling operations. The Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit conducted raids from March 28 to 30, 2025, dismantling an illegal gaming and bookmaking network in the Greater Toronto Area. Charges were filed against several persons linked to an alleged criminal organization, including former Hell’s Angels member Paris Christoforou.
Technology Infrastructure and Consumer Patterns
 Live wagering options and real-time odds updates have become standard features across regulated platforms. Mobile betting platforms and integrated payment systems support the market’s expansion. Live wagering options and real-time odds updates have become standard features across regulated platforms. These technological capabilities enable operators to scale operations quickly while meeting consumer expectations for seamless betting experiences.
Consumer engagement metrics show increasing sophistication in betting behavior. Active player accounts demonstrate regular monthly activity, with spending patterns stabilizing around predictable ranges. The consistency of these patterns suggests market maturation rather than speculative growth.
Conclusion
Canada’s sports betting market has established itself as a substantial economic sector generating billions in wagers and hundreds of millions in revenue quarterly. Ontario’s competitive model provides a functioning template for other provinces considering market liberalization, while Alberta’s pending market entry could double the size of Canada’s regulated betting sector. Federal advertising regulations and enforcement actions against illegal operators will shape operational conditions as the market continues expanding toward projected revenues of $8.7 billion by 2030.
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