 By Lana Petrovski
April 5th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Playing cards has been part of human civilization for at least a millennium, long before the dawn of technology. Even though many people associate cards with online casino games such as poker and blackjack, there are several themed card games that go beyond the standard 52-card deck.
 It is now all at your finger tips- you can play anywhere – safely. The good news is that you can also enjoy your favourite games on your new iPhone. Here are our Top five card themed games that you can download from the App Store today.
Hearthstone
Hearthstone is a card collection game from the studio that brought us World of Warcraft, and it sees players build decks with powerful cards to summon heroes and minions to gain control of a complex battlefield. Hearthstone merges skill and strategy with the joy of completing a set of characters as the battle unfolds.
 Kittens – a different approach to a game. Exploding Kittens
Probably one of the most successful Kickstarter stories to date, Exploding Kittens transitioned from a fun board game to an even more enjoyable online game. Essentially, this is a game of hot potato that combines equal measures of cute felines and total destruction. Exploding Kittens is a great multiplayer game that makes for a fun and enjoyable night with your mates.
Gwent: The Witcher Card Game
Gwent: The Witcher Card Game is a free-to-play digital collectable card game based on the infamous novel and video franchise. This turn-based game has simple rules for challenging gameplay to collect ‘power’ and win. The cards and game board burst with colour and animations, transporting players deep into this fantasy world as they work to defeat their enemies.
UNO!
Uno has been a family favourite card game for over three decades, and it is still loved by many! The mobile game version, UNO!, keeps the same rules and gameplay in Classic Mode, but also adds a 2v2 Mode where players can team up and strategize together.
 Includes fan favourite characters from the Seven Kingdoms that battle for control of the Iron Throne. Reigns: Game of Thrones
Reigns is a card simulator game set in a fictional medieval world where players need to rule over their kingdom by accepting or rejecting advice from their counsellors. Reigns: Game of Thrones keeps the basic rules of the Reigns franchise, but includes fan favourite characters from the Seven Kingdoms that battle for control of the Iron Throne.
 By Franz Kerl
April 5th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The surge in popularity for all types of gaming over the course of 2020 is a phenomenon that has already been discussed. This has been particularly noticeable in the online casino sector, which has benefited from more potential players being at a loose end at home, along with land-based alternatives facing temporary closures.
 Get into the game for as little as $1 Those within the industry have taken full advantage, and you need only take a glance at this site to see Canadian minimum deposit casinos compared and to get a picture of just how competitive a market this is becoming. The various platforms don’t purely focus on bonuses and free offers to tempt new members. They all have their own ways of trying to bring something extra special to the table, and one technology that has proved exceptionally popular has been live gaming. This is when the player is connected via webcam to a real dealer spinning the wheel or dealing the cards. But why has this proved to be such a major attraction?
An authentic experience
There is more to a night at the casino than the mechanics of a card game or a spinning wheel. Casino goers love the theatre of the blackjack table or the roulette wheel, and that is something that live casino manages to achieve, even in the online environment. Studios typically have multiple camera angles so you can see the action from every angle, while the croupiers are professionally trained.
Increased trust
 Today’s casinos are closely monitored and regulated by bodies like the Kahnawake gaming commission. Everyone knows that the games are not rigged and the random number generators can be trusted to give a fair game. But despite all that, players still feel more comfortable seeing a physical roulette wheel spinning, or watching a real dealer shuffle a real deck of cards. Ultimately, even in the technical world of the 2020s, we still trust another human being more than we trust a computer algorithm.
Social play
There has been lots of talk about social gaming over the past few months. It is important to appreciate that social games are about more than Words with Friends and the like. Is there any gaming experience more social than sitting at a blackjack table or jostling around the roulette wheel, chatting to the dealer and exchanging some banter with the other players? Live casino games allow you to do all that, just without the jostling, via the chat box on your screen.
 The game is live – you see everything you would see if you were in the gambling hall. Mobile connectivity
Live casino games have been around for a while, but it is only in the past year or so that the mobile infrastructure has been sufficient to allow you to play them from your smartphone. Given that mobile is now the platform of choice for more than 50 percent of all gaming, bringing the live casino experience to iOS and Android has been a crucial factor in it’s rising popularity. It is a phenomenon that will only increase.
By Hubert Harrison
March 26th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The world of NHL sports betting can be quite overwhelming for beginners. With the amount of betting strategies and lingo swirling around, it can be hard to keep up. Before you start looking into ice hockey betting tips and placing bets it’s important to get the basics down first. With money on the line, it’s important always important to bet smart
 It is an exciting game with some incredible athletes. Online sports betting has become a fantastic activity for many sports fans today. With a bet involved, fans get to have a more engaging experience for every match they follow. Compared to just watching the latest NHL news live broadcasts, sports betting is a lot more exciting. It gives bettors the adrenaline rush as they watch their team win or lose.
Important Safety Betting Tips For Beginners
Betting mistakes happen. Even to the most seasoned of sports bettors. However, making errors is inevitable, there are a couple of ways to reduce them. In the world of online sports betting, it’s important to take things slow when learning the ropes of the trade. You need to learn how to bet smart to lead a successful betting career. To help guide you on to the path of sports betting success, keep on reading.
Keep things simple and clear
If you think you’ll be winning big from the get-go, think again. Online betting takes time and experience to master. Just like playing the piano, it’s impossible to master a piece on your first try. You’re going to need to practice over and over again to nail it.
Take things step-by-step.
The very first thing rookies need to keep in mind is to keep things simple and clear. In other words, participate in bets that you fully understand. Know where you’re placing your bets and their results. By not over complicating things, you’ll be able to make smart betting decisions and avoid the risk of burning a hole in your pocket.
Have a budget
While a chance at winning big sounds a whole more exciting than just a couple of bucks, it is incredibly risky. Especially when you lack the experience. One of the most important tips you need to always keep in mind no matter what is to always stay within your budget.
You need to always spend within your means. To keep control of your finances, set a specific budget that you can afford to lose. As a beginner, you are bound to make a few more mistakes than the average punter. So, be prepared to lose a great sum of your budget.
Do not trust just any tipster
Cyber attacks are all over the internet. As a beginner, it’s important to thoroughly look through different betting sites before trusting them. Here are some tips on how to find the right trustworthy tipsters:
Client reviews
Looking through online reviews is the best way to get the best idea of a betting site’s services and client experience.
 Payment methods
Have a look at the site’s payment methods. Check if they use popular payment platforms like Paypal or Apple Pay.
Terms and conditions
A tell-tale sign that a betting site is suspicious if they don’t have a terms and conditions page anywhere on their site. Make sure the site you’re about to trust has one.
Compare betting odds and lines
One of the best betting tips you need to take is always to compare betting odds and lines. Having good odds gives a big advantage in having a higher payout. On the other hand, having better betting lines will increase your chance of winning wagers.
Another way to increase your chances of winning is to have multiple accounts with different betting sites. By having several accounts in different betting platforms, you’ll be able to compare and find the best betting odds and lines right away.
NHL Betting Terms You Need To Know
After getting a good grasp on the important safety betting tips, it’s now time to know more about the type of sport you’ll be focusing on. NHL sports betting lingo can be rather confusing, especially when you’re just getting started. Here are a couple of important NHL sports betting lingo commonly used amongst bettors in the industry.
 Pick the team you think can win and place a wager. Moneyline
Pick a team to win the game. It’s the simplest way to wager on.
Puck Line
To win, your team must score by more than 1.5 goals and the opposing team needs to lose by no more than 1.5 goals.
Parlay
Parlay is the act of combining two or more bet types from the same or across multiple games. It’s a good move to increase your total number of odds. But it can also be a risk as all plays need to be accurate.
Favorite
Refers to the home team or the team with the better record of the season.
Underdog
Refers to the visiting team or the team with the weaker record of the season.
Teaser
The act of buying or selling goals on a puck line or in a total bet. This move gives bettors better odds or chances of winning with lower odds.
 All kinds of teams to wager on. Different Ways to Bet on the NHL
After a quick crash course of NHL lingo, the next thing you need to familiarize yourself with is the different types of bets in the NHL.
Live Betting
Betting while the game is in action. It’s the most action-packed way to bet on the NHL, you’ll be able to see lines adjusted in real-time.
Single-game Betting
This betting type is used when you’re only interested in betting on specific individuals broken down to a money line.
Prop Bets
Single-game bets based on players. Bettors can place bets whether a specific player scores or not, or even hit a certain record.
Futures Bet
Early bets are placed during the off-season or within the season by supporting a specific team to win a certain amount of games.
Experience is Gold
When it comes to online sports betting experience is the best teacher. It’s important to take risks and make mistakes. It’s how you learn how to do better the next time around. Understanding these basic terms and ways of how to place bets on the NHL will help give you a better grasp on where to get started. The best betting strategy is to take things one step at a time. Learn and grow with every win or loss you make.
 By John Gaar
March 24th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Did you know that the worldwide audience for E-sports games is forecasted to reach 250 million people?
The growth of Esports has been phenomenal, with new games being launched every year. Some games, however, dominate the landscape and are more popular than others. When we talk about the biggest Esports games, it can mean different things to different people. Some games are more popular globally while others are regional successes.
Gambling (also known as betting) is the wagering of money or something of value (referred to as “the stakes”) on an event with an uncertain outcome, with the primary intent of winning money or material goods.
Gambling thus requires three elements to be present: consideration (an amount wagered), risk (chance), and a prize.
Most of the online casinos offer no deposit bonus Canada or Australia players can use as well as UK or USA gamblers. The outcome of the wager is often immediate, such as a single roll of dice, a spin of a roulette wheel, or a horse crossing the finish line, but longer time frames are also common, allowing wagers on the outcome of a future sports contest or even an entire sports season.
Some have a lot more players while others organize bigger tournaments with large cash prizes. In this post, we have sorted the biggest Esports games by the amount of reward money that they have awarded for tournaments. All information on this is collected from the Esports Earnings website.
So, let’s get started with the list of the biggest Esports games.
 Fortnite is a popular multiplayer online game developed by Epic Games. It has three different game modes but still counts as one game. Release Year – 2017
Total Prize Money Awarded – $89.1 million
Noteworthy Tournaments – Fortnite World Cup, Fortnite Fall Skirmish Series, Fortnite Summer Skirmish Series
Top Players – Kyle Giersdorf, Harrison Chang, David Wang.
Fortnite is a popular multiplayer online game developed by Epic Games. It has three different game modes but still counts as one game. Here are the details of each game mode:
Save the World – It involves up to 4 players fighting zombie-like creatures to defend themselves and other survivors.
Battle Royale – This is a player-versus-player type of game where up to 100 players fight to be the last person standing. It can also be played in teams.
Creative – This is the sandbox mode where players have creative control over the game world.
 Dota 2 is a popular multiplayer battle arena Esports game developed by Valve Corporation. It is a sequel to Defense of the Ancients: All-Stars. It is most popular in North America and Europe. Release Year – 2013
Total Prize Money Awarded – $224.7 million
Noteworthy Tournaments – The International
Top Players – Johan Sundstein, Jesse Vainikka, Anathan Pham
About the Game
Dota 2 is a popular multiplayer battle arena Esports game developed by Valve Corporation. It is a sequel to Defense of the Ancients: All-Stars. It is most popular in North America and Europe.
The same is usually played in teams of five, with each one defending their area on a map. One team wins by destroying a structure called “Ancient” within the other team’s base.
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
 Counter Strike: is a first-person shooter game and is the fourth one in the Counter-Strike series.
Release Year – 2012
Total Prize Money Awarded – $96.5 million
Noteworthy Tournaments – World Electronic Sports Games (WESG), ELEAGUE
Top Players – Andreas Højsleth, Peter Rasmussen, Nicolai Reedtz
This is another popular Esports game developed by Valve Corporation, in collaboration with Hidden Path Entertainment. It is a first-person shooter game and is the fourth one in the Counter-Strike series.
This game is basically played between two teams—terrorists and counter-terrorists. The terrorists take hostages and plant a bomb. The counter-terrorists have to save the hostages and defuse the bomb.
By Chris Bell
March 24th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Unlike in the US, gambling has been present in Canada for quite some time. The Great White North is famous for being one of the first countries to accept online gambling. As Canada’s first legal gambling form appeared in 1969, Canada was bound to have a highly developed gambling industry. Moreover, casinos became one of Canada’s famous landmarks where tourists and locals came for some quality entertainment.
I am a game expert working at Gamblizard; I love to blog and give my audiences piece of his mind after reading my articles.
 The gambling culture in Canada became so mainstream, and it became one of the top ways to entertain yourself. And as the advancement was introduced to the industry, online gambling started to be a thing in Canada. Nowadays, many Canadian residents opt for online casinos and sportsbooks, but it doesn’t mean that land-based casinos are any less popular.
If you are up for a quick Canadian gambling history lesson, tune in.
First Legal Encounter with Gambling
Chronologically speaking, the first time a legal document concerning gambling in Canada appeared in the 19th century. It was called the Canadian Criminal Code, and it banned all sorts of gambling activities known. As something new, strange and unknown, many disliked gambling, which is why it was considered illegal up until 1969.
Once the benefits of legalised gambling became clear to the Canadian government, they decided to alter the Criminal Code in 1969. After all, there was no stopping the casino enthusiasts from enjoying their favourite pastime activity – even if it was illegal.
The two activities that became legal with the altered Criminal Code were gambling and lottery.
This was the first step towards the incredible expansion of the industry in Canada. And for the next couple of decades, tons of new land-based casinos emerged, and the industry flourished. The gambling culture in Canada became so mainstream, and it became one of the top ways to entertain yourself.
However, after the 1990s, everything started to change, and by the early 2000s, it became easily accessible and available to almost everyone. The fast growth of Internet technology and computers gave birth to online casinos. Once online casinos started to become familiar, a new era of online gambling began in Canada.
 You could go online and play blackjack, poker, baccarat and roulette. The Beginnings of Online Casinos in Canada
And as it is entirely logical, the first online casinos in Canada and the rest of the world were quite simple. Even if this was considered groundbreaking at the time, the tech limitations allowed operators to offer only a few casino games users can play online.
Thus, you could go online and play blackjack, poker, baccarat and roulette. Another thing that used to limit people is the accessibility – as not many people had computers. Unlike today when everyone has a computer when students can access any online casino, they find on the website Gamblizard via phones when bored and get offers in Canada or play on their way to college. In other words, only a limited number of people could play these games and access the first online casinos in CA.
Also, online gambling was in a somewhat grey zone. Even if it wasn’t illegal, there wasn’t a law regulating anything conducted online. Without a clearly defined law concerning online gambling, many took advantage of the situation, which went beyond Canada’s borders and became a worldwide issue. This is precisely why many countries worldwide started defining online gambling laws and determining the legal status of online casinos.
Online Casino Laws in Canada
After almost two decades of online casino presence, Canada and many other countries worldwide struggle to define the laws concerning this matter. Thus, residents of the Great White North can play online casino games but only on offshore licensed websites. In other words, no online casino operator is allowed to run a gambling platform from CA. The country cannot issue any licenses and permits to enable such operating since there is no law defining it.
Unfortunately, the country won’t profit from playing taxes or license taxes as long as they don’t decide to pass a bill. All in all, people who are engaging in online gambling activities in Canada aren’t committing a crime – as long as that online casino is licensed offshore. Many of these offshore websites offer great bonuses, offers, top odds and exquisite gambling experience. Still, many people are hoping that the Canadian government will start changing the law soon. After all, this is a country with such a long gambling history, and it just needs to embrace it.
 Chris Bell is a game expert working at Gamblizard who loves to blog and let his audience get a piece of his mind by reading his articles. He is an absolute slot machine enthusiast, and he loves to play online video slots. When Chris is not working, he usually spends time with his family or reading interesting gambling content.
 By Staff
March 23rd, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The City’s spring break programming, which includes Youth Camp and Student Theatre Camp, and PA Day programming will be open for registration at burlington.ca/schoolbreaks on March 26, 2021, at 11 a.m.
Programs are available for viewing now.
 Students will be able to be outside but programs will be much different this Spring Break. Youth Camp and PA Day programming will take place at Tansley Woods Community Centre, 1996 Itabashi Way.
Student Theatre Camp will take place at Burlington Student Theatre, 2131 Prospect St.
If residents have questions about programs or need help with registering, contact the City by email at liveandplay@burlington.ca, or if you need to speak to someone, call 905-335-7738, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday to Friday and 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on weekends.
Recreation Fee Assistance
Recreation is for all, regardless of financial situation. Recreation Fee Assistance is funding made available to resident individuals or families who need help to pay for City of Burlington recreation programs.
For more information or to apply, visit burlington.ca/feeassistance. You can also leave a confidential voicemail message at 905-335-7738, ext. 8501 and staff will return your call to assist you.
Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture explains that while: “Programs may look different we have designed them to still offer the highest quality programming, staff and participant safety and a wide range of fun and exciting activities.
“Kids will love the programs and parents can feel confident their child is not only safe, but having fun, too.”
Links and Resources
www.burlington.ca/schoolbreaks
By Nikolas Sargeant
March 22nd, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
It has been some 52 seasons since the Toronto Maples Leafs navigated their way to NHL’s Stanley Cup, an unwanted record, it is fair to say. The long wait could be over because the Maple Leafs are flying high in the Scotia North division and are only two points behind Florida Panthers in the overall league.
Toronto Maples Leafs have 13 Stanley Cup titles to their name, but winning their 13th was unlucky because it was the last time the Maples Leafs reached the final. They won the coveted trophy during the 1966-67 season but have failed to reach the final since then.
The NHL looks a little different this season, courtesy of all the Canadian teams bundled together in the North division. League officials came to this decision after the Government of Canada imposed cross-border travel restrictions. The change has done the world of good for the Maples Leafs, so much so that the best Canadian sports betting sites price them as the third-favorites for Stanley Cup glory.
A third-place finish in the Atlantic Division equated to an eighth-place finish in the Eastern Conference for the Maple Leafs last season. The Maples Leafs faced Columbus Blue Jackets in the Eastern Conference Qualifying Round, where they fell to a 3-2 defeat.
 Toronto Maple Leafs seen as contenders but they are going to have to get past Montreal. A Solid Start But Terrible March For The Maples Leafs
The Maple Leafs started the reduced game 2021 season at a blistering pace. They accumulated 15 points in January thanks to a 7-2-1 record and improved on that start in February by banking 19 points from their 9-2-1 record.
March has been a difficult month for the Maple Leafs, and they have slipped down the league standings as a result. A 3-5-0 record has seen them reel in only six points, but five defeats in six games is a record that needs fixing and rectifying soon.
Twenty-three goals conceded in their last six times on the ice shows where Maples Leafs’ problems are right now. They score plenty of goals themselves (15 in the previous six games), but their defense is like Swiss cheese. You do not win many hockey games if you ship an average of 3.83 goals per game.
You would expect the Maples Leafs to return to winning ways when they take on Calgary Flames in back-to-back fixtures. The Flames are nine points behind the Maple Leafs in the Scotia North division but are on the back of a three-game winning streak. They then travel to division whipping boys Ottawa Senators before a pair of tricky ties against the Edmonton Oilers. The second-placed Winnipeg Jets are the team the Maple Leafs last take on in March.
 The Oilers celebrating – still working to get out of the Northern Division and move on to the Stanley Cup. Oilers Need More Consistency
The Oilers are another Canadian NHL team that has been away from the Stanley Cup finals’ excitement for too long. They won their fifth Stanley Cup in 1990 and last competed in a final back in 2006, where they lost 4-3 to the Carolina Hurricanes.
January saw the Oilers finish with a disappointing 5-6-0 record. Still, everything came together in February, where they finished 9-3-0, including five straight victories between Game 18-22, which included a 7-1 demolition of Calgary Flames.
Oilers won four games on the spin in February but are currently 4-4-0 thanks to back-to-back defeats at Vancouver Canucks and the Flames.
Of all the Canadian hockey teams, Ottowa Senators look certain not to even reach the playoffs. They have only 22 points from 32 games, with the teams under them having played at least five games less (New Jersey Devils have played seven fewer). The Senators have been highly inconsistent, and their dreadful 1-7-0 start to the season has left them with a mountain to climb.
 By Staff
March 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Registration is open for BellyUp Bellydance’s 8 Week Spring Session.
Is this just a fun event or is this preparation for a public performance?
Register for in-person at the studio or live online.
In-Studio class sizes are reduced to 10 per class as per the Province of Ontario’s “Red Zone” restrictions which means their classes fill faster than ever. Join them for an inspiring session that’ll make you feel alive, build your self-esteem, strengthen and tone your body and so much more.
Click here for in-studio registration!
Click here for live online class registration!
Related news items:
Classic Belly Dancing
 Feel alive, build your self-esteem, strengthen and tone your body.
By Staff
March 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The Lakeshore Football Officials Association needs more in the way of people who can serve as officials on the field.
It is no secret that officiating is an integral part of football. The Lakeshore Football Officials Association is beginning a campaign to recruit individuals who have a passion for football and are eager to stay engaged with the game.
 Bateman High School football team students . “We are reaching out to women and men, teens and adults who may be interested and have a passion for football. If you bring that passion, you will be mentored by some of the best football officials in the country,” commented Referee-in-Chief Murray Drinkwalter.
“There are many reasons to “Say Yes to Officiating”
For the love of the Game
Maybe you want to stay engaged and be a part of the game you loved to play, or maybe you are looking to get more engaged in the game your kids are playing. Either way, being an official will give you access to, and an appreciation for, the rules and strategies of the games you officiate like nothing else can.
Earn extra money
There is no better part-time job or hobby for you to make a little extra money doing something you enjoy. It’s the perfect extra gig for anyone from a high school student, to a parent to a retiree.
Give Back
Many officials like to pay it forward to football for what it has given them. Officiating is also a way to guide and enrich the lives of the athletes who are playing by teaching the value of sportsmanship and fair play.
 It was raining, the ground was wet, slippery and football was hard to hang onto – but the game went on. Stay Active
Maintain a healthy lifestyle by engaging with a sport you love. Also, who doesn’t like getting paid to exercise?
Sense of Community
The fellowship and humour officials share with one another are incomparable. You will quickly realize there is no community like officials. Many of them will become your closest friends — lifelong friends.
Life skills
Officiating teaches independent thinking and the ability to see the big picture — a skill that translates outside of officiating. It also requires dedication, togetherness, and ability to work as a team that is important everywhere.
Opportunity
Football officials are often identified and associated with the sport and are known outside of officiating by coaches, players and fans. Even if people don’t know you specifically, many people associate officiating with trustworthiness, impartiality, dedication and integrity – all qualities that can open doors for you in other areas of life.
The organization is making a concerted effort to recruit individuals who have the availability to officiate high school football from September to November, the busiest time for the organization. High school football games are normally played Tuesday-Friday with most doubleheaders kicking off at noon, 1 p.m. or 2:30 pm.
All new officials must complete a Level 1 Football Canada Officials’ Certification Program, which has yet to be scheduled.
If you are looking to stay or get involved with football, make some extra money, be a part of a community, and enjoy being active, then please visit www.lfoa.ca to learn more and see the links to social media.
Have more questions? E-mail info@lfoa.ca and someone will contact you.
 About the Lakeshore Football Officials Association
The Lakeshore Football Officials’ Association, (LFOA) established in 1963, is responsible for officiating all community and high school tackle football in the regions of Halton, Peel, and Niagara. The organization offers Football Canada Certification Programs, rules and positioning clinics, and a personal mentoring program to assist in the development of all officials. Many of the organization’s officials are former or current members of the Canadian Football League and Ontario University Athletics officiating staffs.
By Staff
March 12th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
That $400 million the federal government is handing out over a five year period – was given to every municipality in the country.
Each of those now has to put together their proposals and basically compete for the dollars.
It’s a good move – getting people outside never hurts.
The media release explained it this way:
 Given the opportunity the people of Burlington get out every chance they get. Today, the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, and Parliamentary Secretary Andy Fillmore announced $400 million over five years to help build new and expanded networks of pathways, bike lanes, trails and pedestrian bridges, as well as support for repairs and planning studies. This is the first federal fund dedicated to building active transportation through Canada – powered by people – and part of the Government of Canada’s plan to create one million jobs, fight climate change, and build a more sustainable and resilient economy.
The new $400-million fund is part of an eight-year, $14.9-billion public transit investment outlined by Prime Minister Trudeau and Minister McKenna on February 10, 2021. It will support communities as they build vibrant neighborhoods where people can safely live, work and play. The fund will also help Canadians living in rural communities and places without active transportation options to unlock the potential in their communities.
 Walking trails and quiet countryside. In concert with this new fund, Minister McKenna and Parliamentary Secretary Fillmore also launched stakeholder engagement for Canada’s first Active Transportation Strategy. The strategy will be informed by input from the public and key stakeholders including provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous communities and not-for-profit organizations and businesses and will help the federal government make smarter investment decisions to:
• Support the active transportation networks of the future;
• Promote healthier, walkable communities that are environmentally sustainable and affordable; and
• Support better data collection to ensure measurable outcomes.
Watch carefully for how you community responds to this opportunity. Burlington is currently working on a Cycling Master Plan that is going to need to need millions to be completed – this fund appears to be tailor made for the Transportation people.
By Staff
March 9th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
 If you didn’t get to strap on the blades this winter – you’re out of luck. Rink now closed. The Burlington Rotary Centennial Pond is now closed for the season due to the warm weather.
There are still opportunities to skate outdoors at the outdoor artificial surface at Hidden Valley Park (1137 Hidden Valley Rd.).
Register at burlington.ca/dropinandplay.
 By Staff
March 7th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Someone believes there is going to be a Spring followed by a Summer during which the city Parks and Recreation department will offer the best program it can and still abide by whatever COVID19 conditions are in place.
Registration for spring recreation programming opens March 13
Spring programs can be viewed now at burlington.ca/recreation.
Burlington residents can register for in-person, outdoor and virtual programs for Adults 19+, Adults 55+ on March 13 at 9 a.m. Registration for Youth programs will happen at 11 a.m. on March 13.
An account is required to register online. You can create an account or register at liveandplay.burlington.ca.
Residents can call 905-335-7738 for staff-assisted telephone registrations.
Anyone with questions or needing assistance can contact the Recreation, Community and Culture Department by email live&play@burlington.ca or if you need to speak to someone, call 905-335-7738 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday to Friday and 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on weekends.
 Everyone can’t wait until the COVID19 crisis is behind us. Gyms and play fields that have been closed will burst with activity. Can’t wait. If restrictions change due to the pandemic, we will do our best to adjust and modify the program.
Safety requirements are in place for all programs and include Bring Your Own everything, and the requirement for masks for all non-physically active programs.
Anyone participating in an in-person program will need to fill out the mandatory health screening form at burlington.ca/screening before each session.
Outdoor programs will require participants to dress for conditions and will run rain or shine. Cancellations due to extreme weather conditions of thunder, lightning or high-winds or in the case of unforeseen staff absence will result in credits to affected customers.
Recreation Fee Assistance
Recreation is for all, regardless of financial situation. Recreation Fee Assistance is funding made available to resident individuals or families who need help to pay for City of Burlington recreation programs.
For more information or to apply, visit burlington.ca/feeassistance. You can also leave a confidential voicemail message at 905-335-7738, ext. 8501 and staff will return your call to assist you.
 Director of Recreation, Community and Culture, Chris Glenn Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture has said he is “ taking a cautious, phased-in approach to re-opening our recreation facilities. We want to welcome everyone back but we’re doing it with an abundance of caution to ensure staff and participants remain safe and have confidence in our safety procedures.
“Many of our programs for the spring will take place outside, too. For those who still want to enjoy our virtual programs, we still have our Active-at-Home videos and TelePALS running. Keep checking the website as we are adding more programming frequently.”
By Staff
March 5th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The Parks and Recreation people, despite feeling like a yoyo – open, closed, then open again only to be closed once more have set out a program that they hope will take on a life of its own
 There will be a summer – what it will be like is almost a guess at this point in time. •Adult / Older Adult Programs: Gradual return to more in person programming including the operation of the Seniors’ Centre and other locations like Tansley Woods, Haber and potentially Brant Hills. Mainway auditorium (group fitness and indoor pickleball) to remain closed for necessary capital renewal work.
•Tyandaga Golf to open early spring, weather dependent. General golf offerings with potential for smaller / modified league play. Tournaments not considered at this time.
•Summer Camps looking to be scaled back due to restrictions and facility availability and offered at City locations including Haber Recreation Centre. Development of more park pop up and play activities around the city.
•Student Theatre continues to operate various levels of programming & camps with potential use of both Student Theatre and BPAC.
•Teen Tour Band resuming in-person practices and supporting any local events. Not looking to do any travel over the summer months.
•Pools to be open including Nelson, Mountainside and LaSalle outdoor locations offering a variety of recreational swim opportunities and partnered clubs with limited swimming lesson programming.
 By Staff
February 17th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Recreation facilities welcome back participants in recreation programming that will start to re-open with a phased approach starting the week of Feb. 16.
Not all programs and facilities will be opened immediately; re-staffing and facility preparation is underway.
All Adult Virtual Fitness, Learning and Music Registered Programs already running until March 26 will continue as is with no change at this time.
Drop-in skating, lap swims, recreation swims and Aquatic Fitness will start to re-open this week and programs and locations will increase over the next two weeks. All programs can be viewed and registered for at burlington.ca/recreation.
Restrictions for City facilities and recreation as a result of moving in the Red (Control) Phase in the Province’s COVID-19 framework include:
• 10 people maximum for indoor programs such as ice pads, gymnasiums, etc.
Outdoor events limited to 25 people at a time • 25 people maximum for outdoor programs
• Drop-in recreation programs will have a maximum capacity of 10 people, this includes skating and Aquatic Fitness
• Pool capacities for drop-in recreational swimming and lap swims will be reduced to ensure physical distancing can be maintained
• Bistro Express Curbside Pickup will again be accepting phone orders and providing nutritious home-style cooking for reheating at home. Pickup at Seniors Centre Main Entrance. Tap payment only accepted
• In-person instruction, including Learn to Swim and Aquatic Leadership courses will have a maximum capacity of 10 people
• Indoor pickleball activities are cancelled. Outdoor pickleball is available in Optimist and Leighland parks, weather permitting
• No spectators permitted at sports and recreational fitness facilities except for parent/guardian supervision of children
These restrictions will impact program providers in the following ways:
 Team sports are on hold. • For all team sports, indoor and outdoor game-play is not permitted
• Teams in City facilities and on City fields can adjust their programming to training and skill development with a maximum of 10 people indoors, up to two coaches and 25 people outdoors. Program participants are encouraged to reach out to their organization for additional information
• If you are a participant in a non-City program or team sport, please connect with your organization to understand how this may impact you
• No spectators permitted at sports and recreational fitness facilities except for parent/guardian supervision of children
• Parents/guardian must maintain 3-meter distance while in facilities
• No contact permitted for team or individual sports
 Public performances – including at the Performing Arts Centre are not taking place. . Limit duration of stay in a City facility or on City fields to 90 minutes (does not apply to sports)
• Require active screening, contact information and attendance for all patrons
• No live performances. Performing arts rehearsal or performing a recorded or broadcasted event permitted
• Singers and players of brass or wind instruments must be separated from any other performers by plexiglass or other impermeable barriers
 By Matt Jones.
February 16th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
How to find the best online bonuses for Canadian casinos
With more online casinos than ever opening in recent years – the total number of online sites now numbers in the many thousands – this space has become incredibly competitive. In fact, if recent industry reports are anything to go by, the global online gambling market is expected to reach a staggering $127 billion by 2027!
Much of this competition centers around the need for online casinos to not only attract new customers to their platform but to keep them playing there in the long run.
But with so many options available to both new and old players, this is no easy task!
 There are reliable online casinos that cater to the Canadian market. One of the most popular methods online casinos use to ensure they can attract new players to their platform is to lure them with enticing welcome bonuses. These come in many different shapes and forms, but the end result is much the same; they provide you with a little bit of an incentive in the hope that you will keep on playing with them.
With so many online casinos out there these days, there is understandably a huge variety when it comes to what kinds of bonuses are available. Although choice is always a good thing for consumers, an unfortunate consequence of having so many options is that it can become quite difficult to choose a casino to play with. For newer players in particular, this can sometimes be a daunting task – and this time of year often sees an influx of new and inexperienced players. People who are searching for some indoor leisure activities to wait out the usual heavy snowfall in February.
But what are some of the main things we need to keep in mind when looking for a new online casino platform to start playing with, and how can we identify and take advantage of the best casino bonuses on offer?
Know your bonuses
Before you start trawling through pages of Google search results looking for the best bonus out there, you first need to understand the different types of casino bonuses that are offered by online casinos.
Not all casino bonuses are created equal and there is significant diversity in terms of who can avail of them, how easy they are to use and how lucrative they might be.
Generally speaking, the main types of bonuses that online casinos will offer you are cash bonuses, deposit bonuses and free game bonuses.
As you might have guessed, cash bonuses typically involve the online casino in question giving you an amount of money, credited to your account, simply for opening an account with them. You will usually be able to use this on any game type you like, unless they specify that it can only be used on certain games. Similarly, a deposit bonus involves the casino giving you a certain percentage of any deposits you make to the platform, as a bonus. This will usually have some wagering conditions attached to it that you have to hit before you can withdraw any funds you win using the deposit bonus. You will generally be able to use deposit bonus funds on any game, with the bonus credited straight to your account once you meet the initial requirements. In contrast, the free game or free spin bonuses are limited to specific games and will, once again, be subject to wagering requirements.
Of these, the deposit bonuses tend to be the most lucrative, as online casinos will typically offer you a full match, up to a specific amount, on your initial deposit. Unfortunately, however, deposit bonuses are usually only available to new users signing up for the first time, which limits their availability for more seasoned players.
How to find the best online casinos?
As mentioned earlier, the huge number of online casinos bursting onto the scene in recent years has made it a difficult space for individual users to navigate. When a simple Google search can potentially yield millions of results, finding the right online casino to use can often be a discouraging task.
According to the trusted Canadian casino portal SuperLenny.com, however, this is exactly where their services come to the rescue. Using a review aggregator portal such as SuperLenny allows you to compare and contrast a wide variety of online casinos in one centralized location, without the need to trawl through pages and pages of search results.
 The main types of bonuses that online casinos will offer you are cash bonuses, deposit bonuses and free game bonuses. Read the rules carefully and understand your limits. This means you can spend less time searching the darkest reaches of the internet looking for the best possible deal, and more time doing what you love – settling in for an exciting online casino gaming session! It also has the benefit of allowing you to directly compare the type of bonus offered, without the need to navigate directly to the website in question.
By Adam Lumb
February 15th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The legal gambling age in Canada is determined by province. This means how old you need to be to gamble depends on where you live. However, it can also depend on what type of gambling you are partaking in. For example, there might be different minimum ages based on if you’re playing a casino game of chance or buying a lottery ticket.
In Ontario, the rules are strictly applied based on the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporate Act, 1999. This law has made the legal gambling age for Ontario residents clear for different gambling types. Let’s take a look.
Casino age in Ontario
You must be 19 years of age or older to play casino games of chance in Ontario. This includes slot machines, roulette, blackjack, and other game types. In fact, you must be 19 years of age or older to even go to a gaming premises like a casino, unless you are there for employment.
 Playing slots on line can be fun – exciting. Just know your limit Upon entering a casino in Ontario, you may be asked for a government-issued identification document featuring a photo to verify how old you are. This is a common practice at gambling premises across the province. If you are 21 years of age or younger, two identification documents may be needed.
Of course, there are a few other entry requirements that you need to satisfy as well. For example, you cannot appear intoxicated, nor can you be self-excluded from playing at the premises.
How old to play casino online in Ontario?
You must be 19 years of age or older to play at online casinos in Ontario. In recent years, playing online has become more and more popular across the country. There are lots of new Canadian online casinos launching that provide a fun and new experience.
However, the age requirement for Ontario players remains the same.
You will need to create a new account at these sites using your personal information. Make sure that what you provide is accurate.
Your account needs to be verified which will often require an identification document featuring a photo and your age to be uploaded.
If you are lucky enough to win, you may be asked for further verification documents when you request a withdrawal. Online casinos must follow strict anti-money laundering policies and other rules to comply with their licence obligations. Therefore, submitting the correct personal information when you sign up is very important.
Age to buy lottery tickets in Ontario
You must be 18 years of age or older to buy lottery tickets in Ontario. There’s a variety of different lotteries that are drawn over a week. You must buy your tickets before the deadline to be eligible.
Lottery retailers may ask for a government-issued identification document featuring a photo to verify how old you are. Any retailer caught selling lottery tickets to underage people can face significant fines.
You can claim lottery prizes lower than $1,000 at a retailer. Prizes under $50,000 must be claimed via mail, while anything from $50,000 or above must be claimed at the OLG Prize Centre in person.
Make sure to check your tickets to see if you have won. There have been several occasions when a winning ticket totalling millions of dollars has not been produced. However, many lottery tickets remain valid for several months after the draw so the prizes can be claimed.
Keep gambling fun
No matter how old you are, gambling is meant to be fun. Never gamble what you cannot afford to lose and be mindful of your activity.
If you think you are starting to lose control, ConnexOntario can help. There’s a variety of resources that they can help you to find and access in Ontario.
By Staff
February 1st, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Mountainside Outdoor Pool has served the community well for over 50 years.
The City of Burlington is planning a future revitalization of this popular community outdoor pool. The renewal project is anticipated to begin after the 2021 summer swim season. The pool will remain open for use this summer, pending public health and provincial COVID-19 direction.
 Time for an upgrade. The ward Council is now a happy camper – he has delivered something for his constituents The City is inviting and encouraging all families and individuals who use the pool to take the online survey to help guide them with the style and themes of amenities and features planned for the new pool. The survey is open until Feb. 19, 2021: CLICK HERE for the survey.
Styles and themes of amenities in the survey include:
- Pool water spray features
- Climbing wall
- Water slide
- Shade structures
The revitalization will create an attractive, fun, active and welcoming multi-use outdoor swimming pool, that invites the community to participate and experience swimming and water play while encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle.
Construction is scheduled to begin in September 2021, with completion expected in the spring of 2022.
About Mountainside Outdoor Pool
Mountainside Outdoor Pool and Splash Park (2205 Mount Forest Dr.) is an important community hub and aquatic recreation destination in the Mountainside neighbourhood. The pool is well used and serves on average 27,000 participants in a wide variety of activities including recreational swimming, lap swimming and learn to swim lessons each summer.
 Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture Chris Glenn, Director of Recreation, Community and Culture explains what the City is doing and the timeline for the revitalization. “Mountainside Outdoor Pool is over 50-years old and has served the community and the city very well. It’s now time to revitalize it and make the needed upgrades, repairs and updates so it can be a community activity hub for another 50-years. By starting the construction in the fall, we can ensure people have another opportunity for healthy, active recreational swimming this summer, and weather and construction permitting, have it open for the 2022 outdoor swimming season.”
By Staff
January 30th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
You have to give Oakville North Burlington Member of Parliament Pam Damoff more than a high five for giving the drive to get Terry Fox on the new five dollar bill more than the old college try.
The Petition she presented to the people at the Mint who will be printing the new $5 bill had 1251 Burlington signatures on it.
An announcement is due soon on who will be on the currency.
What the Gazette didn’t know was that Ms Damoff is a football fan.
Here she is speaking in the House of Commons yesterday:
 Pam Damoff taking the Polar Dip on a New Year’s Day – not this past year though. “Mr. Speaker, eight worthy candidates are being considered by the government for the new five-dollar bill, but one stands out from the rest: Terry Fox.
“I am proud to sponsor an e-petition initiated by Burlington resident and CFL Hall of Famer, Tony Gabriel, to have Terry Fox chosen to be on the five-dollar bill.
“In 1980, Terry embarked on the Marathon of Hope to raise funds for cancer research. When he came through Ottawa, he participated in a ceremonial kickoff at an Ottawa Rough Riders game. Tony told him there was not one person on the team that could possibly physically do what Terry was doing.”
 Tony Gabriel and Pam Damoff beside the Terry Fox marker on the Burlington waterfront. This gave Terry an emotional lift. The Marathon of Hope made Terry Fox a household name and a Canadian hero. Over $800 million has been raised for cancer research in Terry’s name.
As Tony would say, let us get Terry in the end zone. It is time to put him on the five.
By Staff
January 28th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The crack of the bat that can be heard even if you are seated way up in the bleachers of a large ball park, a sound that North Americans just love to hear.
Given the way we have had to live our lives for the past year, taking in a ball game would be nice. Being able to sit with friends with a beer in one hand and a hot dog in the other is something to look forward to and might aid us in getting through the current lock down.
The Burlington Oldtimers Slo-Pitch has begun to promote their summer league offering; we assume they believe the lock down will be lifted by then. Running from the plate to first base wearing a mask doesn’t sound all that appealing.
The teams play on Wednesdays at 10:30 am at Sherwood Park where there are four diamonds – if that much space is needed.
Like everyone else they will be watching for changes from the provincial government on what people can do. The moment there is even a hint the games can take place the Slo-Pitch people will be onto Teresa Campbell, their contact at Parks and Recreation, looking for approval to start the season.
If you had previously registered and paid for 2020 then there is no further action required by you.
However, if you had previously requested a refund of your 2020 registration fee then the league treasurer will reach out to you closer to when the season is anticipated to start.
JOIN US!
Become part of something special in your community. Let’s face it, what better way is there to get a little exercise on Summer nights! Get your friends and relatives to join too.
• Men’s 35+ league
• Way too many games… PLUS two tournaments!
• Twice a week
• All games in Burlington with short fences 🙂
• Best people ever
The league asks newcomers to do a self assessment in order to fit them into a team. It is brutal.
 Looks like there is room for everyone in this league.
 By Staff
January 28th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
It was one of those bleak winter days that often follow a snow storm.
Close to blistering cold but not cold enough to freeze Lake Ontario water and not cold enough to keep those barking mad surfers out of the water.
The photo offering today shows someone pushing through the water hoping to catch a decent wave.
Not for the faint of heart.
 Photo by Helene Dube
|
|
