 By Staff
April 6th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
When a municipality has to borrow large sums of money to be paid over a long period of time they work with the Regional government who do the borrowing for everyone at the same time.
This time around they are going to the market for $154,647,000 in 2023.
As shown in the following table, the combined debt requirement in 2023 for the Region and the Local Municipalities is estimated at $154,647,000, and represents the maximum amount of debt that would be issued in 2023.
 The final decision will be made at the time of the market issue. Of the $154,647,000, $54,647,000 relates to the Region and reflects borrowing of up to that full amount related to the 1 District Facility in Halton Hills for the Halton Regional Police Service.
Burlington has borrowed to cover the costs of turning Bate into a Community Hub. The public still doesn’t know how much that venture is going to cost.
 By Staff
April 6th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The City of Burlington’s Tyandaga Golf Course will open for the 2023 season on Saturday, April 15.
Tyandaga Golf Course will begin taking tee-time bookings on Tuesday, April 11. Tee times will be available starting at 7 a.m. each day and can be booked by calling the Pro Shop at 905-336-0005, ext. 2 or in-person at the Pro Shop. Members will be able to book 14 days in advance.
 Golf course will be groomed and ready for the golf carts. Tee times can be made on April 11th. For any questions regarding opening and the course, please email tyandaga@burlington.ca or call 905-336-0005 or visit tyandagagolf.com.
 By Pepper Parr
April 6th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
In January more than 150 wrote to say there has to be a way to keep what one reader called the only credible source for community news and information about public events in Burlington. It has served a very important role.
We all know that the internet is not “free”. It’s just that the price people pay can often be hidden or indirect; such things as disclosure of personal data and market preferences that allow companies to target their publications to specific audiences. Almost all online newspaper now have ‘paywalls’ – restrictions to what you can read and how much. Most, also have a restriction on who can comment, as in only the subscribers who can access the posts and read the content.
For many years the Gazette has been truly “free”. Unfortunately, that can not continue if this on line, accredited news source is to continue publication.
 When we considered ceasing publication at the end of January the responses from the community were loud and clear: “tell us how we can support you”.
“I Just read your comment to a comment above….how about starting a subscription service. I for one would gladly contribute.”
“Thanks for your service. This is very sad news for those of us who relied on you for news about our city. The Gazette will be missed.”
“Who will keep the Mayor and Council honest now?”
“Please add my name to those who appreciate the service you’ve provided to the Burlington community. You helped enlighten folks who may not have known otherwise about an important local issue.”
“…we didn’t always agree, but at least you brought salient Burlington issues to our awareness, since the “major” Canadian media companies haven’t seen fit to service a 200,000 population market.”
“… this is sad news for those of us who have relied on you and the Gazette for the details and insights that others couldn’t (or wouldn’t?) provide. Many times when developing delegations, the Gazette was a major resource for the backstories and details that were necessary to make a case. And sometimes to remind Council of their promises, statements and actions. Your tireless work all these years is greatly appreciated.”
“The Gazette was the only credible source for community news and information about public events in Burlington. It served a very important role, and will be truly missed by its readers and supporters.”
Several people offered immediate financial support and this allowed us to stay afloat while we developed a ‘go forward’ business plan that incorporates “… ongoing funding from the community that has said it wants to support you and develop[s] a creditable advertising sales program.”
As a result, we are now working with Patreon, a company that assists content creators to elicit financial support from the people that read what we write.
The people who use Patreon to support artists, musicians, writers, publishers, craft people – the list is almost endless – are called “patrons”. We are asking you, as informed readers and supporters of independent journalism, to become patrons of the Burlington Gazette.
There will be many perks and benefits to becoming a patron. One is the ability to comment.
If you wish your voice to be heard through the Gazette, please join the ranks of our patrons and subscribe. After April 10th, only people who are patrons will be able to comment.
Learn more about what Patreon does and how you can become a patron Click HERE
 By Pepper Parr
April 6th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Seldom is there an opportunity to run a report that has no quibbles, complaints or observations on what could be better.
 Lita Barrie. Chief Librarian for a system that has seven branches. Lita Barrie has made a good library system a better library system.
She followed on the heals of Maureen Barry who saw the system go through very significant growth.
The list of improvements and changes is impressive: Doing a poetry pop up in Civic Square; the creation of the Makers Space where people get a chance to use some high tech equipment and experiment with 3d printing and using a laser to cut a pattern.
The Library Speakers Consortium brings in, virtually a range of talks from bestselling authors and thought leaders.
In her report to the community she said: “Each and every day the team strives to meet the needs and interests of our customers and our community.
It would be wonderful if there were someone leading what is offered to the Seniors in the city.
The activity level and the innovations were enough to get the the Library on the list of Chamber of Commerce finalists for the 2023 Business Excellence Awards.
“It’s wonderful to have that work recognized by the Burlington business community with this nomination”, she said.
Barrie bases the decisions she makes on the feedback she got from the 2022 Customer Satisfaction Surveys.
She said “it was clear that BPL’s collections and borrowing remain the most important service we provide. While you love the opportunity to take home a wide variety of materials—from books to birding kits—you identified frustrating gaps with wait times, missing items, and lack of selection in some categories.
At the end of 2022, we began a collections project to:
 A library is still all about books. Gaps in the collection are being improved. create ‘missing lists’ of items that were listed in our catalogue but not on our shelves
purchase new copies of items that had gone missing
and fill gaps in series we carry.
“We want to make sure our collection is accurately reflected in our catalogue and we are getting closer to that goal.
“We are also looking for creative solutions to increase your access to material. Last month, we were delighted to add Kingston Frontenac Public Library to our growing “More to Borrow” partnership, which gives you access to e-Books from our five partner libraries. We also recently posted a how-to article about searching for books that are available to borrow immediately.
 Ryan works with a woman using some of the equipment available to the public in the Makers Space on the top floor of the Library “Several other themes emerged from our survey. Many of you are looking for more space for meetings, gatherings and private study and more availability in our popular programs that fill up quickly.
“We hear you. We are exploring solutions to improve in each of these areas, while acknowledging that our customers sometimes have competing needs and preferences.
“Another clear theme from your feedback is that we need your help to spread the word. You mentioned low awareness of some of our services and resources. We recently updated our RESOURCES webpage to better highlight what we offer and are working on a similar upgrade to other parts of our website. We are also highlighting a featured resource in our branches and online each month. With so much information competing for public attention, we’d love your help to get our message out there.
 Lita Barrie managed to continue to serve the reading needs and interests of the public during a pandemic that called for that extra effort. “Word of mouth is a powerful tool. Thank you for continuing to talk about BPL and highlighting the ways you use your library with your friends, family, and social circle.
“Make sure you aren’t missing our emails! With recent changes to spam filters on popular email platforms (particularly Gmail), some customers are missing our holds ready notices and newsletters. If you want to ensure our communication makes it into your inbox, consider adding BPL as a contact, or moving our emails to your “Primary” folder.
The changes in technology has changed the way information is made public. It’s all there – on line. What will libraries look like in a decade; what will Lita Barrie do with the library branch that is expected to be part of the Bateman High school site redevelopment ?
 By Pepper Parr
April 6th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The photo op has become something the Burlington area politicians and the city administration have become addicted to.
Rather than speak to why an event is taking place and help the public understand the issue – city staff and or an elected official (frequently both) show up to have their picture taken.
 One would struggle to see the value in all the time spent to make this photo op happen. Where was the benefit ? Two examples are set out – and lead us to asking – Where is the value in these people gathering to have their picture taken?
How many hours were spent setting up the photo op; in travel time to and from the office to the location where the picture was taken ?
Assuming they didn’t go home after the camera shutters were snapped
In opting for the photo op the people participating deny the citizens of the city an opportunity to engage in some dialogue about what took place. Going that route stunts the level of information people have.
How does one change this regrettable practice?
The change would have to come from the very top.
The Mayor could make a statement that she would rather talk to people than have a picture taken.
And the City Manager could advice senior staff levels to look for better ways to inform the public – think in terms of giving them protein instead of Pablum.
Will that happen in Burlington? Certainly not from the Mayor – there is some hope for the City Manager.
 Why were all these people on hand to cut a ribbon? Where was the benefit to the public.. The public has been fed a diet of photo ops and doesn’t know that there are issues they need more information on.
The citizens can of course make it clear to their elected officials that they don’t have much respect for the photo op and would rather hear what the politicians have to say.
 Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns conducting a Walking Tour The poor election turnout is due partially to the public not being aware of what the issues are. Being aware is having material they can read and opportunities to talk to their Council member is what engagement is all about. A photo op is not engagement – it is the person in the picture saying – look at me – remember my name and let’s leave it at that.
Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns does a very good job of bringing her constituents up to date on development issues with her walking tours. She also runs the best ward meetings – other members of Council would do well to follow her example.
We are waiting for Kearns to take her crowd on a walking tour around the Burlington GO Station – say walking between Guelph Line west to Brant and up Brant for a block or to – that’s where the heavy growth is going to take place.
Salt with Pepper is the musings, reflections and opinions of the publisher of the Burlington Gazette, an online newspaper that was formed in 2010 and is a member of the National Newsmedia Council.
By Pepper Parr
April 6th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
With the world almost falling apart politically and the prospect of war more real than many realize – one can say that the future is bright and that there are young people who are in the process of being prepared to take on leadership roles in science.
Once again, Halton District School Board students performed well during the 63rd annual Bay Area Science and Engineering Fair (BASEF), which was held last week at Mohawk College in Hamilton.
As a result of the generous participation of dozens of sponsors and charitable donors, approximately $175,000 worth of cash prizes, awards and scholarships were given to students participating; HDSB, took 105 prizes, awards and scholarships were presented to 52 HDSB projects for their submissions.
Primary Fluid Systems Pinnacle Third Best in Fair, Canada-Wide Science Fair Awards:
 Anthony Efthimiadis, Grade 8 student at W. H. Morden Public School, for the project, Development of an AI Convolutional Neural Network for Diagnostic Screening of Basal Cell Carcinoma. • Anthony Efthimiadis, Grade 8 student at W. H. Morden Public School, for the project, Development of an AI Convolutional Neural Network for Diagnostic Screening of Basal Cell Carcinoma.
Canada-Wide Science Fair Awards (May 14 – 19, 2023 in Edmonton, Alberta):
• Maya LeBlanc, Grade 10 student at Abbey Park High School, for the project, “Nitrous Oxide Reduction in an Industrial Wet Scrubber Utilizing NosZ Reductase and P. denitrificans”
• Jacob LeBlanc, Grade 8 student at Pilgrim Wood Public School, for the project “Sustainability Metrics For Consumer Products Using Open Source Data, Python and QR Code Technology”
• Siqi Tan & Yuewen Li, Grade 7 students at W.H. Morden Public School, for the project, “CRISPR: Ensuring a Memorable Future”
• Imran Allarakhia, Grade 7 student at W.H. Morden Public School, for the project, “Social Robots in the Classroom: Detection and Active Support for Student Emotions”
• Brian Yin, Grade 10 student at Iroquois Ridge High School, for the project, “Student Engagement Rewards System”
 Jacob LeBlanc, Grade 8 student at Pilgrim Wood Public School, for the project “Sustainability Metrics For Consumer Products Using Open Source Data, Python and QR Code Technology”  • Siqi Tan & Yuewen Li, Grade 7 students at W.H. Morden Public School, for the project, “CRISPR: Ensuring a Memorable Future”  • Maya LeBlanc, Grade 10 student at Abbey Park High School, for the project, “Nitrous Oxide Reduction in an Industrial Wet Scrubber Utilizing NosZ Reductase and P. denitrificans”  Imran Allarakhia, Grade 7 student at W.H. Morden Public School, for the project, “Social Robots in the Classroom: Detection and Active Support for Student Emotions”  Brian Yin, Grade 10 student at Iroquois Ridge High School, for the project, “Student Engagement Rewards System” Visit basef.ca for more information.
 By Staff
April 6TH, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Animal Services
The Animal Shelter at 2424 Industrial St. will be closed to appointments on Friday, April 7 and Monday, April 10.
To report an animal control related emergency on a holiday, please call 1-888-264-3135.
Burlington Transit Burlington Transit will operate on a Sunday schedule on Friday, April 7. For real-time bus information and schedules visit myride.burlingtontransit.ca.
The Downtown Transit Terminal, at 430 John St., and Specialized Dispatch will be closed on Friday, April 7 and open on Monday, April 10.
City Hall The Development Services counter, temporarily located on the second floor at City Hall (426 Brant St.), will be closed on Friday, April 7 and Monday, April 10.
 If the weather is nice this trail will be a busy place; maybe there will be a ship going through the canal when you get to that point. Halton Court Services – Provincial Offences Office Court administration counter services at 4085 Palladium Way will be closed on Friday, April 7 and Monday, April 10.
With the exception of the Easter closures, telephone payments are available at 905-637-1274, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. All in-person services are available from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Many services are also available by email at burlingtoncourt@burlington.ca or online at Halton Court Services.
Parking Free parking is available downtown, on the street, in municipal lots and in the parking garage (414 Locust St) on weekends and holidays, including Good Friday and Easter Monday.
NOTE: The Waterfront parking lots (east and west) do not provide free parking on holidays.
Parking exemptions are required to park overnight on city streets and for longer than five hours. Visit burlington.ca/parkingexemptions.
Recreation Programs and Facilities Drop-In Recreation Activities
Angela Coughlan Pool at 2425 Upper Middle Rd is open on Good Friday, April 7 and on Easter Monday, April 10 for recreational and lap swimming.
Drop-in swimming, skating and other program times vary for the long weekend. Drop in or reserve in advance. For schedules and online reservations, visit burlington.ca/dropinandplay.
Outdoor activities
Burlington has a wide variety of outdoor activities to enjoy with your family during the long weekend including:
• trails and multi-use paths
• parks and playgrounds
Lending Library
Our Lending Library has a variety of indoor and outdoor play equipment available to borrow at no charge. Visit burlington.ca/playlending for details.
Customer Service
Recreation, Community and Culture customer service is available to assist you:
• In person at recreation facility counters during program times (April 8 and 9)
• By email at liveandplay@burlington.ca (April 8 and 9)
• By phone at 905-335-7738 (April 8 and 9)
• Phone and email support is closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday.
Roads, Parks and Forestry The administrative office will be closed on Friday, April 7 and Monday, April 10.
Essential services will be provided as required.
Service Burlington The Service Burlington counter, temporarily located on the third floor at 390 Brant St., beside City Hall, will be closed to all appointments and walk-in service on Friday, April 7 and Monday, April 10.
Connect with Service Burlington online at burlington.ca/customerservice.
 By Pepper Parr
April 5th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
If taking in a Blue Jays game interests you there is an opportunity for you to get your hands on a pair of tickets without having to deal with a scalper.
Thanks to the generous support from Route 56 General Contracting, Community Living Burlington went live with our first online Blue Jays auction earlier this week.
 Every month from April to September, they will be hosting a silent auction or raffle for your chance to win a pair of tickets to see the Toronto Blue Jays in action.
The tickets are for the Detroit Tigers at the Toronto Blue Jays, Wednesday, April 12th at 7:07 pm. Tickets are located in the TD Clubhouse – Section 226, Row 8.
 This experience comes with in seat service, a private entrance and a beautiful lounge to enjoy drinks and food before and during the game.
It’s not too late!! Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to support Community Living Burlington!
Place your bid at https://trellis.org/bluejaytickets
Bidding closes at 5:00 pm on Friday, April 7th. The winner will be contacted at that time.
By Staff
April 5th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
It took far too long but finally there is a sign at the base of LaSalle Park where Trumpeter Swans winter each year telling the story.
It will be a wonderful day for Bev Kingdon and volunteers with Trumpeter Swan Conservation Ontario at the dedication of the new Trumpeter Swan sign.
 Graceful creatures that we hunted to extinction and then worked hard to bring them back The event will take place on Saturday, April 29th at 2 p.m. in front of the sign which is located between the parking lot and the boat launch. The address for the event is 831 LaSalle Park Road, Burlington.
Trumpeter Swans, the largest swan in the world, native only to North America, were hunted out of existence in Ontario with the last one shot by a hunter in Long Point in 1886.
By the 1930s, it was thought only 69 individual Trumpeters remained in the western U.S. but then a small flock in Alaska was discovered and the U.S. decided to restore the species, banning hunting, and preserving habitat.
Nothing happened here in Ontario until Harry Lumsden, a retired Ministry of Natural Resources biologist decided to start a restoration program in the early 1980s. He received permission to get eggs from the Alaskan flock and then recruited families to raise the birds in captivity until they could be released.
Bev, and her husband the late Ray Kingdon, who owned a 200-acre property in Chisholm Township, were some of the earliest volunteers with the Trumpeter Swan Restoration Program. The couple also had a home in Burlington and were elated when Pig Pen, a Trumpeter born to captive-raised parents, became the first trumpeter in more than 100 years to migrate south, coming to LaSalle Park in 1993.
 Bev Kingdon among the Trumpeter swans at LaSalle Park Now, more Trumpeters over-winter at LaSalle Park than in any other location in Ontario.
Continuing the work of the restoration program are the many dedicated volunteers with Trumpeter Swan Conservation Ontario who will be present at the sign dedication and will talk about their important work and answer any questions the public may have about the Trumpeters.
A large three-panelled sign, telling the story of the Trumpeter Swan Restoration Program, was erected at the park this year by the City of Burlington in cooperation with Ontariogreen Conservation Association.
An opportunity to celebrate the hard work done by dedicated people who brought more than 2,000 Trumpeters back to our province — a truly wonderful story of conservation success.
 By Staff
April 5th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Another holiday, a big one on the Christian calendar; taking place at the same time as our Muslim friends celebrate Ramadan.
Interesting that the Christian world has basically given up on the role of the church while the Muslim world is showing itself to be both active and very healthy.
While we ponder our personal spiritual worlds – the city moves into a basically closed mode. Given that the coyotes and denning the ability to call Animal Services to report a coyote problem is very limited. Forget about Service Burlington.
Here is what is open and what is not open from the 7th to the 10th.
With the gift of some nice weather we should be able to get out and enjoy ourselves.
 By Staff
April 5th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The Orchard Community Hub has been awarded the Best Park or Facility Design by Parks and Recreation Ontario (PRO).
This award is presented for completed projects that demonstrate excellence in design of recreation and/or park facilities intended for public use. The park or facility must showcase uniqueness, innovation, and creativity for recreation use.
The Orchard Hub, located at 2400 Sutton Dr., in St Christopher’s Catholic Elementary School is a collaboration between the City of Burlington and the Orchard community in Burlington. It is a space for community groups to provide free activities, programs or events to Burlington residents.
The activities or events can be on-going or a one-time opportunity that build community connections. To qualify for free use, programs and activities must be at no cost to participants. This could include training, community meetings, support groups, clubs, gatherings, cultural activities or other neighbourhood programs.
 The Official opening of the Orchard Community Hub – the obligatory photo op. The Hub was officially opened in February 2023 and has held a winter holiday community gathering, a book share program, youth movie nights, crafting groups, fundraisers, line dancing and more.
About Community Hubs
There are now two community hubs in operation.
 The Haber Centre was a collaboration between the city, the Halton District School Board and the Library that came in on budget. Haber Community Hub
3040 Tim Dobbie Dr., in the Haber Community Centre
• Capacity 15-20 people
• 280 square feet
• Two sinks and large amount of cabinet space
• Tables and chairs
Orchard Community Hub
2400 Sutton Dr., Burlington in St Christopher’s Catholic Elementary School
• Capacity: 40 people
• Casual seating, kitchenette, fridge, microwave, washroom with adult change table, projector and screen
• There will be no staff on site, and renters are required to set up and clean up the room
• During school hours, parking is south side of building adjacent to park.
Interested residents are encouraged to submit their request through the application form with a short summary of the details for intended use. Groups looking to learn more about the space can arrange a tour and chat about ideas for the space should email communityconnects@burlington.ca
Community hubs, a new name being given to places where people gather, is of interest to the public – with the focus for many being the conversion of what was once the Bateman High School into a very large hub that will be shared with a Brock University faculty and the school board that once owned the property.
 One of the largest property acquisitions and the most expensive so far has yet to be part of a full community engagement event. The development has cost the city a bundle of money and hours of staff time working through two major issues – parking and the asbestos in the building.
What has yet to happen is any significant public engagement. People want to know how much of the space is going to be available to the people who live in the immediate area.
It appears that the city can create community hubs – the one in the Orchard and the facility in the Alton Village community make that evident – but on the Bateman situation – there has been next to nothing in the way of opportunities for the public to ask questions and for the city administration to answer them
 By Staff
April 5th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
While nominations for the wards 1 & 2 have yet to closes it looks is as if the field has settled at the following five candidates.
Online voting will be available from May 15 to 19, 2023. In-person voting will take place at advance polls on Wednesday, May 24 and on Election Day, Monday, May 29, 2023.
 By Staff
April 4th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
This sounds interesting – the kind of thing you might want to give the lady in your life: an hour of learning how to blend pairing of tea and chocolate
 Enjoy the delicious combination of tea & chocolate at the Museums of Burlington’s Mom’s Night Out: Tea & Chocolate Tasting Workshop. Katie Cyr of Monarch Tea Co. will be leading a 1-hour interactive workshop pairing tea blends with chocolates from Burlington’s own Walker’s Chocolates. Tickets are $55/person ($50/members) and include 4 tea and chocolate pairings, a COBS double chocolate scone, and admission to Joseph Brant Museum. This event is on Friday, May 12, 2023 at Joseph Brant Museum from 6pm-8pm. Doors open at 6pm
Book early HERE – these things get sold out quite quickly.
Take a look at the schedule and note what has been sold out well before the event date.
By Staff
April 3rd, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
An unfortunate error in the announcement setting out all the activities taking place related to the the exciting poetry program put on by the library.
The corrected announcement is HERE
It is a program that will stretch your mind and introduce you to literature you may not be familiar with.
 By Tali Haim
April 4th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The gaming industry has experienced tremendous evolution thanks to technological advances. For example, technological innovations have made games more realistic, detailed, and immersive. Additionally, advances such as smartphones and cloud gaming have made the gaming experience more convenient. Players no longer have to remain stuck in their gaming rooms to enjoy their favourite games. Instead, they can enjoy the games on the go from their mobile devices.
This article looks at how technology is changing how we play. Let’s dig in!
 Almost no limit to the gaming sports that are now online. Graphics
The advancement of graphics technology has heavily influenced the evolution of gaming. For example, the advancement from 8-bit to 4K has exponentially enhanced the level of detail and realism in games.
Online casino games such as slots have greatly benefited from better graphics. When you join top-rated casinos, like the Canadian casinos recommended by Maple Casino, you will be amazed by the top-quality games you can play online. The graphics have also enabled casinos to make their online gaming platforms more appealing.
Additionally, graphics engines such as Unreal and Unity have enabled developers to create stunningly realistic worlds that players can explore. High dynamic range (HDR) technology and ray tracing have also revolutionized lighting and shadow effects, making games look even more realistic.
Virtual and Augmented Reality
Virtual reality and augmented reality have become very trendy in the gaming industry. Players use VR headsets like the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive, which allow them to immerse themselves in a fully realized virtual world.
 Harry Potter has moved from the printed page to a computer screen where the graphic quality is superb. On the other hand, AR technologies like Pokemon Go and Harry Potter: Wizards Unite have brought the gaming experience out into the actual world. This allows players to interact with their environment in new and exciting ways.
These two technologies have played a critical role in bridging the gap between the virtual and real worlds. Consequently, players can enjoy a more immersive experience than traditional games.
Gameplay
Technological innovations have also revolutionized the gameplay experience. Game developers harness the power of emerging technologies to make games more complex and offer gamers more choices and options.
 These people could be watching and playing with people on the other side of the world. In addition, multiplayer gaming has become the norm, with online matchmaking allowing players worldwide to play together. Developers also use artificial intelligence (AI) to make the games adaptable.
Consequently, modern games can adapt to the player’s skill level. This design makes the games more accessible to casual players while still challenging hardcore gamers.
Accessibility
Technology advancements have also made gaming more accessible. Gaming is no longer limited to expensive consoles or high-end gaming PCs, as players can access games from various devices.
For example, mobile gaming has become a massive industry, with millions of people playing games like Candy Crush and Angry Birds. Additionally, cloud gaming has also made games more accessible. You don’t need a powerful gaming device to enjoy your favourite games, thanks to cloud gaming. Instead, you can use cloud gaming services like Google Stadia and Nvidia
 The cloud is what lets you play on sites that have the power and quality you need. GeForce Now to play high-quality games on any device with an internet connection.
Final Thoughts
It is evident that technological innovations have had a tremendous effect on the gaming industry. Innovations such as better graphics, artificial intelligence, and mobile technology have contributed to the advancement of the industry. However, industry experts argue that more innovations will follow soon. This means gamers can brace themselves for better days ahead.
By Pepper Parr
April 3rd, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Five years ago, the lives of 29 people, their families and their communities were changed forever.
That day was April 6, 2018, when the Humboldt Broncos bus crash shook the nation with sadness. Sixteen young individuals, including defenceman Logan Boulet, lost their lives and 13 bear physical and emotional scars for life.
 Bernadine and Toby Boulet On April 7, 2018, Logan succumbed to his injuries. His parents, Bernadine and Toby Boulet donated his organs so that six lives could live on. In honour of Logan’s legacy, this day was established as Green Shirt Day to remember the victims and families of that fatal crash and to create awareness about organ and tissue donation.
The fifth annual Green Shirt Day is on Friday, April 7. The campaign is led by the Boulet family and the Canadian Transplant Association in partnership with many others within Canada’s organ and tissue donation community. Partners include Canadian Blood Services, the Kidney Foundation of Canada and IA Financial Group.
This year, organizers are inviting people across Canada to join the movement for life in recognition of the vital link between organ donation and the gift of life. The goal is to inspire 100,000 new registered organ and tissue donors nationally. They are asking Canadians to take the time to consider organ and tissue donation, find out how to register in their province or territory, and to have a conversation about it.
“In the five years since our journey with organ and tissue donation really began, we have realized how one event, that changed our lives, has grown to become a movement,” said Bernadine Boulet. “We have seen the positive impact, the sunshine, of this movement that has risen from the crash and tragedy. It has led to conversations which have allowed families in similar situations to make a decision at a tragic time. It has given hope to individuals and their families who are waiting for organs.”
Fifth anniversary prompts new Green Shirt Day design
Brandy Hehn, a two-time organ transplant recipient from Regina, designed the 2023 Green Shirt Day logo. The shirt design was intended to honour the Boulets’ continuing efforts to raise awareness of the importance of organ donation, but also to remind Canadians of the day’s origins. Brandy’s design features 29 gold stars, one for each of the 16 lives lost, and for the 13 passengers whose lives were forever changed as a result of the Humboldt Broncos bus crash in 2018.
“My hope is that people will see this design, wear the shirt and spread awareness about Green Shirt Day, the #LoganBouletEffect and what the Boulet’s continue to do for all of us needing an organ transplant,” says Brandy.
Green Shirt Day is followed by National and Organ Tissue Donation Awareness Week: April 23-29, 2023
 The Boulet family announcing and displaying the 2023 Green Shirt Day logo On the heels of Green Shirt Day is National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week (NOTDAW) and a great opportunity to keep the conversation going. This year marks the 26th anniversary of NOTDAW, a week dedicated to honouring those who have donated to save others, celebrating those who have received lifesaving transplants, and inspiring others to register their intent to become organ and tissue donors.
Each year in Canada, approximately 250 people die waiting for an organ transplant. Currently, there are more than 4,000 people waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. You can make all the difference by registering your decision and talking to your family this April.
“One conversation could save someone else’s life, so I encourage everyone to have that talk with their family,” said Toby Boulet. “Then register to be an organ donor in your province. Join this movement for hope — this movement for life — so that others can go on to have more precious time with families.”
Ways to show your support on Green Shirt Day
Leading up to and on Green Shirt Day, people across Canada are encouraged to show their support and create awareness. Ways to get involved include:
• Register as an organ donor and tell your family your wishes.
• Order an official Green Shirt Day shirt or hockey jersey, bumper stickers, lawn signs, and flags: https://greenshirtday2023.ourproshop.ca/
• Visit the following links learn more about organ and tissue donation and to find out how to register in your province.
o https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-an-Organ-Donor
o Canadian Transplant Association
o https://greenshirtday.ca/register/
o blood.ca/organs-tissues
o Learn.organtissuedonation.ca
 Logan Boulet The Canada-wide Green Shirt Day was created to remember the victims and families of the tragic Humboldt Broncos bus crash in Saskatchewan in 2018, and to continue Logan Boulet’s legacy by inspiring Canadians to register as organ donors and to talk to their families about their wishes.
On April 7, learning that he would not recover, Bernadine and Toby Boulet offered to donate their son, Logan Boulet’s organs. They did so because Logan had registered as an organ donor and had spoken to his parents about his wishes. His generous final act inspired almost 150,000 donor registrations across Canada shortly thereafter, which became known as the Logan Boulet Effect.
Green Shirt Day is led by the Boulet Family and Canadian Transplant Association, in partnership with Canada’s Organ and Tissue Donation Community, including key partners Canadian Blood Services and The Kidney Foundation of Canada. Green Shirt Day organizers are also grateful for the support of IA Financial Group.
 By Staff
April 3rd, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Established in 2013, The Burlington Performing Arts Centre’s Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the performing arts in Burlington. Recipients of this award demonstrate the diversity of artistic accomplishment that comprises the rich cultural tapestry of the City of Burlington. The 2023 Hall of Fame Inductee will be announced at the 2023/2024 Season Launch event on May 31, 2023.
 From the stage of the Performing Arts Centre The Burlington Performing Arts Centre recognizes individuals and groups who contribute to Burlington’s reputation as a city with a strong, long-term commitment to the development of cultural excellence.
Past Hall of Fame Inductees include Gordie Tapp (2013), Rainer Noack (2014), Lawrence Bonanno (2015), Stewart Laughton (2015), Bob Missen (2016), Burlington Teen Tour Band (2017), Helen Zdriluk (2018), Burlington Footnotes (2019), Hayley Verrall (2020), Gary DeGroote (2021) and Don Allan (2022).
Nominations for the 2023 Hall of Fame Inductee must be submitted to the committee by noon on Monday, April 25. The committee is comprised of a cross-section of Burlington arts community. BPAC staff and board members and their family members, are not eligible. The nomination form can be found HERE.
The Burlington Performing Arts Centre is a spectacular LEED (Leadership in Environmental Design) GOLD certified facility. The Centre is inclusive and respectful to all, combining accessibility with imaginative design and creativity, incorporating accessibility features wherever possible.
The mission of The Burlington Performing Arts Centre is to provide the people of Burlington with a broad range of excellent performance opportunities that will both inspire and delight.
By Pepper Parr
April 3rd, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
There are now five candidates running for the Burlington Wards 1&2 trustee seat on the Halton District School Board.
We are told there are others who took part in the Information session the city held for anyone who was thinking of being a candidate.
Often when there is an election for a single seat on the Board of trustees one person comes forward and is acclaimed.
The candidate elected last October had to resign for personal reasons – which meant calling an election which is an expensive process
That isn’t the cases with the trustee for wards 1&2 in Burlington where there are xx trustees representing the city.
Nominated to date are:
Michael James Duhacek
Website:
Chris Goff
Website:
Anthony Hoyes
Website:
Daniel Warren Oke
Website:
Robbie Brydon
Facebook page
The public school board has some significant issues to deal with. The awkwardly handled issue of an Oakville teacher who appeared to be struggling with some personal identity issues infuriated parents with children attending the high school.
The teacher is on at home leave – no resolution on that issue yet.
The Board is currently getting ready to debate their budget – they are currently waiting for feedback and comment from the public.
Online voting will be available from May 15 to 19, 2023. In-person voting will take place at advance polls on Wednesday, May 24 and on Election Day, Monday, May 29, 2023.
Related news story:
Brydon announces candidacy
By Pepper Parr
April 3, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The Gazette has been advised that this meeting is not for the general public – it is a meeting at which the focus group will be meeting with the developers planning consultant. There will be a meeting for the public at a later date.
The development is back on the table.
Dana Andrews, the Planning Consultant who is shepherding the application to develop the Lakeside Village Plaza wants to reconnect with the community and will be hosting an upcoming meeting with City Staff, the Mayor and Ward Councillor together with the community focus group.
 Stephen White Stephen White, part of a Community Focus group that converged on the previous developer to express concerns on the redevelopment proposal. That meeting was very well attended.
There is no formal structure, although Bob Hilton and Frank Attardo seem to be the guiding force.
They live in the condo on the south side of Lakeshore Road across the street from the plaza. That building was swamped during the 2014 flood. 43 cars in the underground parking lot were flooded and totalled. They obviously have a strong interest in what goes on that site. The big issue is the water table. Many stores in the mall such as the Bowling Alley and the theatre had underground rooms, and they were constantly battling flooding.
 The intention was to develop the site in stages. Skyway Arena, immediately to the north of the proposed development is currently under construction. Since the December 2019 meeting, the community focus group recognizes that a lot of time has passed due to the pandemic; there have been a number of stops and restarts to their work. Over the last several months the group has been reviewing updated concept plans and looks forward to presenting those plans to the City and the public Thursday April 27th, 2023.
prior to a re-submission by the developer to the City.
The meeting location – Hearthstone – 100 Burloak Drive, Time: 6:00 to 8:00 pm
Light refreshments will be available.
An agenda will be distributed prior to meeting date.
Related news stories:
Development met with significant community blow back.
Statutory meeting didn’t change many minds.
By The Usual Suspects
April 1st, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
In a surprise move, Burlington City Council voted unanimously to revise its procedural bylaw following a motion by Ward 1 Councillor, Kelvin Galbraith.
 Ward 1 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith Galbraith, who is known for his advocacy concerning constituent engagement and governance transparency, led the Horseshoe Circle in the vote which allows citizen delegates to be able to question Councillors on any or all matters before Council and extends the maximum delegation time limit to 15 minutes.
Mayor Meed Ward said that Councillor Galbraith’s approved amendments were an “eye opener”.
For those who may have missed the date check the calendar – April 1st.
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