By Staff

January 18th, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

 

With all of us now in the grip of winter – time to remember as Canadians we love the outdoors.

The rink at the edge of the lake is something to keep in mind when you want to get the kids out or just go for a skate yourself.

Ice Conditions Hotline: 905-335-7738, ext. 8587. This line will be updated when regular hours of operation are altered due to ice conditions.

Skating Hours (weather conditions permitting):

• Daily, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Skate Lending Hours:

• Monday to Thursday, 5 to 9 p.m.
• Friday, 5 to 10 p.m.
• Saturday, Sunday and during school breaks, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Sizes and styles are subject to availability. First come, first served. Skate aids are available.

By Staff

January 3^rd, 2024

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Burlington Canal Lift Bridge will close Jan. 2 to all car, bike and walking traffic and is not expected to reopen until late March.

The closure will allow ongoing rehabilitation of the bridge, which lifts to allow shipping traffic into the harbour and also provides a road link across the canal between Hamilton’s beach strip and Burlington.

The latest $21-million overhaul is meant to extend the life of the lift bridge for decades, with major work including replacement of the bridge deck.

The bridge is supposed to reopen March 20, a few days before the 2024 edition of the Around the Bay road race that runs along the waterfront.

The race is slated for March 24.

By Pepper Parr

December 12th, 2023

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Will Short, president of the Burlington Girls Hockey Club was delegating on ice time allocation.

The release of the city’s Life Plan report, that included a section on facility prioritization criteria, brought Short to the Council Chamber podium.

“Preliminary facility criteria has been identified to assist with prioritizing investment and reinvestment to address needs for parks, recreation and cultural assets” said Short who went on to say:

“The timing on this comes when we’re entering into our ice allocation commitments for August of 2025; these have been in place since 2009. What we have learned throughout this process is that there is a massive gender inequality between boys and girls hockey ice allocation.

“An example: we represent 850 girls; the Eagles represent 650 Boys. The Eagles have 800 hours more ice than we do annually.

“Our assumption when we were entering into this was the struggles to provide the level of programming that other girl hockey organizations in Oakville, Milton and Stony Creek was due to the lack of ice pads in Burlington. What we have come to realize is that it’s more of the disparity and gender inequality between ice hours within the girls and boys organizations.

“We discovered that Burlington had adopted a policy in 2007 called the gender equity in the allocation of public recreational spaces. The key principles of this policy were applying a continually and up to apply and continually update the allocation policy and the allocation procedures to effectively respond to community needs while allocating facilities in a fair and balanced manner.

“On paper, the gender equity policies seem to be a triumph for female sport in the city of Burlington and was touted by many news articles on getting gender equity in sport right.

“In March of 2020. The gender equity policy was rescinded to be replaced by a framework for community recreation which in our opinion does not contain specific protections for females in sport.”

“The allocation of facilities in our last ice allocation meeting in December of 2023 city staff acknowledged that there is a severe gender equity issue and that it needs to be addressed  at some point. In our last correspondence on the matter with the City of Burlington, we made it clear that we cannot accept girls being discriminated against when it comes to equity  and the allocation of exclusive spaces when within the city of Burlington arenas.

“We don’t have time within our 10 minutes today. But another issue that we have when it comes to exclusive spaces. Our U22 Junior team, which would be the equivalent of the Burlington Cougars and the OG HL, currently gets a dressing room that is significantly smaller. And if you look at what other city councils have done in the past, or recently in Brampton, where they gave $200,000 to the u 22 Junior team and provided a brand new dressing room within an arena that they provided for exclusive use for that team. We’re not getting the same allocation of exclusive places within the city of Burlington arenas.

“In our opinion, the Live Play and Plan consultation did very little in way of specifically invested in investigating gender equity, and therefore does very little to address the gender inequality when it comes to facilities allocation. It was very obvious that there were equity issues in 2007 when the gender equity policy was adopted, and it has continued to be an issue not only for our organization, but others.

“You can look at the Burlington Youth Soccer decision that was made in 2011. On a similar issue with soccer facilities within the city. On our end, we meet several criteria that the Live the Life Play Plan adopts. As its priorities, equity, access to participation rates and enhancing social well-being and community engagement.”

Kristy Braun, Director of Communications with the BGHC explained “the City adopted a policy titled gender equity in the allocation of public recreational spaces. One of the key policies, was to apply and continually update the allocation policy and the allocation procedures to effectively respond to community needs.

“When it comes to hockey during the 2018 19 season, girls made up 21% of registration in Ontario, which is a 5% increase from just four seasons earlier. However, the ice allocation of the BJHC did not change in the four years, nor has it changed in the past 13 years. Very strange since the gender equity in the allocation of public recreational spaces policy was in effect from 2007 to 2020.

Now it’s a possibility that the allocations haven’t changed in the past three years, because in 2020, the gender equity policy was rescinded and replaced by the Burlington framework for community recreation, which contains no specific protections for females in sport or gender equity.

“And allocation of facilities. As you will have also read in the report growth in girls hockey is driven by many factors, one being promotion of sport participation among girls. The BGHC has embarked on a huge initiative this year, called Grow the Game.  We have removed all socio-economic barriers for girls four to six in age to play hockey. This was accomplished through our organizations funds as well as generous sponsors.

Kristy Braun continued “When the city of Burlington was approached to come alongside the BGHC  and assist with this initiative they declined. They’ve had zero involvement with introducing girls to our sport, including declining our most recent grant application. Because of the dedication of our volunteers and sponsors, most of the barriers for these girls to participate have been removed. In fact, the only barrier that these four, five and six year old girls are facing is the ability to access the ice for more than 35 minutes per week, while the boys organizations in the same age bracket are on the ice for 120 to 180 minutes per week.

“This inequity is due to the lack of ice allocated to girls hockey. The data from the City reflects the inequity of ice allocation and the staff at the city are aware of these issues. So far there have been no remedies to rectify this discrimination. We know that when girls have a positive sport experience, they are more likely to reap the benefits of sport participation and grow into confident and motivated leaders. By not updating the allocation procedures and fairly distributing ice allocations to the girls in Burlington they are being discriminated against by the city. If the City of Burlington wants to ensure that all residents have the right to play, foster individual well-being and create a sense of belonging which is set out in the the framework for community recreation. Girls need to be provided the same opportunity as boys.”

Mayor Meed Ward commented: “this is an eye opener. You mentioned that the city declined a grant application. Can you give us more details on what that was about?”

Braun: “You can apply for up to $30,000 in funding.  Our Grow the Game program actually met all of the criteria. We had a great meeting with the city staff, who were a part of that grant process. There was a lot of confusion as to just how funds could be made available.”

The issue from the city’s end was that if we were to be provided the $29,000 in grant money, we wouldn’t meet our ice allocation requirements. Conversations on that issue are continuing

Meed Ward: “I’m guessing we’re going to hear is that there’s just too much demand and not enough ice. Would you say that that is part of the issue ?

Braun: Yeah, we just need more ice.

So as a good example, with the Grow the Game program, we opened up registration and within four days we hit 250 applicants for the program. We were willing to take 350 as part of the programming but we weren’t able to provide the existing 600 members of organization with the programming needs that they had while also providing the 250 applicants.

A good example – one program which is predominantly five year olds are getting 35 minutes a week. Other organizations are getting two to three hours.

Councillor Bentivegna added: This has come full circle; I thought the problems were solved back then. Can you remind me again, how many members are in your organization? Our registration was capped at 850 we could have had 950

“We are hoping to run the Grow the Game program for the next five years. And if the numbers returned like they did this year, you would have 50% of that program returning and you’d have 50% new to the sport. So approximately 100 to 150 people based on the trends that we had this year with the application; so next year we would be in and around 950 The year after we would be above 1000. But right now we don’t have the ability to grow at that pace because we wouldn’t have any ice to put them on.

Bentivegna: “So your numbers are comparable to both the other boys leagues I guess. So my understanding is BOMA has a significantly larger house league program. The Eagles, our only  rep program, are in around 650.”

Clearly more ice time is needed – which means more ice pads and a different approach to creating new ice pads.

 

 

 

By Melvin Davies

August 13th, 2023

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Canadian Online Gambling Situation: Review of the Main Online Gambling Laws in Canada

Canadians have engaged in gambling for decades. 70% of Canadians participate in gambling, with 26% turning to online options. It generated $5.06 billion in 2020, with men (30%) more likely to participate than women (23%).

Statistics and facts about features of Canadian gambling players

 

On average, each person loses $619. Slot machines and casinos are the most popular, comprising over 60% of the Canadian online gambling market. Poker and casino games follow at 15% and 12%, respectively. Sports betting is increasing, now making up 8% of spending. Best online casinos in Canada with free spins, welcome bonuses, and no deposit bonuses are in special demand among players.

Key History Points: Canadian Online Gambling Laws

• Canada had an outright ban on gambling until 1969. Laws were first relaxed for horse racing and lotteries. In 1985, commercial casinos were legalized.

• In 1992, native tribes gained the right to offer casinos on reservations. In the early 2000s, provinces started online lottery ticket sales and sports betting.

• By 2010, some provinces allowed private companies to offer online casinos along with poker games. However, there were legal gray areas regarding offshore sites.

• In 2015, Bill C-290 formally legalized single-event sports betting to combat the unregulated market. Still, Canada gambling laws remain complex, varying significantly between provinces regarding the types of betting and platforms allowed.

Criminal Code of Canada: Online Gambling Laws in Canada

Each province regulates the industry for adults who are legally permitted to engage in it. The minimum age is 19, except in Quebec, Manitoba, and Alberta at 18, according to online Canada gambling laws. The Canadian Gaming Association regulates and ensures integrity.

• Section 201 prohibits illegal gaming or betting. Anyone who “unlawfully” bets or wagers is guilty of an offence punishable by summary conviction.
• Section 203 forbids illegal games along with gaming houses. Anyone who keeps a gaming house or allows illegal gaming on their premises is guilty of an indictable offense punishable by imprisonment for up to 2 years.
• Section 205 interdicts cheating at play or related. Card cheating is a serious offence that can lead to imprisonment for up to two years.
• Section 207 proscribes illegal devices used for playing to obtain money. Anyone who imports, makes, sells, or possesses such a device knowing it’s illegal is guilty of an indictable offence punishable by imprisonment for up to 2 years.

Interesting Facts About Canadian Online Gambling Laws

Canada is planning to revise its web gambling laws in 2023 due to concerning statistics. A 2019 study found that men gamble online more than women (57% vs 43%), but women are more susceptible to having an addiction (1.8% vs 1.2%). Revenue from female users increased by 160% from 2001 to 2016, which may lead to new regulations.

• While single-game sports betting is illegal, in 2021, Canadians bet $31 billion through offshore websites, circumventing prohibitions. Some lawmakers argue legalization could generate tax revenue.
• While Canada online gambling laws and rules aim to balance morality concerns with commercial interests, technology challenges regulators. Virtual reality and cryptocurrency gambling could reach over $520 billion in the US and Canada by 2023, posing a challenge for regulators to keep up with this new technology.

• In 2022, the Mohawks of Kahnawake received Canada’s first license.

• Updating new Canada gambling laws is critical as nearly 3 million Canadians bet online yearly. The impending 2023 review calls for a coherent national strategy built on facts, not fiction.

Online Gambling Laws in Canada: More Overview

Most provincial web gambling began in 2010, generating over $14 billion in 2017 revenue, 50% from a lottery, 25% from casinos, and 15% online. The Kahnawake Mohawk Territory hosts many servers but is unregulated. Efforts to expand gambling meet public health concerns.

According to online gambling laws in Canada, players must declare over $10,000 income; winnings are taxed at their top tax bracket. Promotional credits and free bets are taxable. Self-excluded players cannot deduct losses. Regulators ensure integrity, set limits, issue fines, and can bar players. While Canada has a solid regulated internet gambling market, concerns persist about problem playing and loopholes that enable underage or illicit play. Regulation and social responsibility initiatives aim to allow recreational play while preventing excess.

The Kahnawake Gaming Commission: Regulatory Body

The Kahnawake Gaming Commission is a regulatory body in the Mohawk Territory of Kahnawake, Canada. It was established in 1996 to regulate and license online gambling operators and related service providers. Canada online gambling laws and rules ensure strict fairness, security, and player protection standards. Some benefits of obtaining a license include access to a global player base, a respected regulatory framework, and a range of support services.

Main Licenses: Key Offline & Online Gambling Laws in Canada

Licenses in Canada are issued by regulatory bodies to authorize such operations and activities. The key licenses are issued by provinces and territories which oversee betting within their jurisdictions. It set the rules and regulations for formats like casinos, lotteries, and bingo.

Obtaining a license is mandatory for any operator in Canada. The licenses ensure gambling activities are conducted responsibly, transparently, and honestly. Such Canadian online gambling laws and regulations provide strict advice, guidelines for users to follow.

• Manitoba Liquor and Gaming Authority of Manitoba regulates casinos, lotteries, bingo, and raffles. Established in 2000, it issues licenses and ensures compliance with regulations. It aims to conduct betting responsibly through public education, enforcing age restrictions, along with other standards.
• British Columbia – The Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch (GPEB). It has regulated it since 1997, licenses and monitors services, and investigates violations. It sets policies and standards to uphold integrity, fairness, and social responsibility. The GPEB aims to mitigate risks and prevent money laundering through compliance enforcement and audits.
• Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission licenses gambling in Alberta, including casinos, lotteries, and bars. It was established in 1993. It first offered sports betting in 2021 and web gambling in 2022.
• The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario regulates gambling in Ontario. Established in 1998, it oversees casinos, lotteries, horse racing, plus online gambling. It first permitted online casino games, and poker in 2019. Tribal casinos must follow its standards. It aims to limit underage drinking.
• Québec Gambling Commission Link and Kahnawake Gaming Commission. Established in 1993, it oversees casinos, lotteries.
• The Kahnawake Gaming Commission, based in the Mohawk territory of Kahnawake, licenses open to Canadians and internationally. Established in 1996, it was an early adopter of online gaming. It focuses on fair standards and player protection.
• Newfoundland and Labrador – Atlantic Lottery Corporation (ALC), offering casinos, and online betting since 1976. It aims for responsible play and donates 100% of its profits to the province. Online sports betting and casino games launched in 2021.
• Prince Edward Island Gambling. Established in 1976, it offers lotteries, bingo, horse racing, and web gambling. It aims for integrity and social responsibility.
• New Brunswick Lotteries and Gaming Corporation. A crown corporation since 1970, it regulates lotteries, bingo, horse racing, and internet gambling. It focuses on social responsibility, donating 100% of its profits.
• Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA)oversees liquor, cannabis, and gaming across Saskatchewan. Established in 1996, it licenses over 5,000 businesses.
• Alcohol and Gaming Authority Nova Scotia regulates liquor and gaming. Established in 2015, it merged several regulatory bodies. It offers licenses for casinos, bars, and internet gambling. Sports wagering and online casino games were permitted in 2021.

Market Size: Ontario Online Gambling Regulation

Ontario has Canada’s largest gambling market. The Ontario Lottery with Gaming Corporation (OLG) regulates casinos, lotteries, slots, and online gaming in the province. Some key facts about the most important Canada online gambling laws:

• Ontario has 29 commercial casinos plus over 30,000 slots at venues across the province. Revenue is around $8 billion annually.
• OLG operates over 25,000 lottery ticket outlets, selling over 190 million lottery tickets yearly, generating over $3 billion in revenue.
• OLG launched PlayOLG, an online casino as well as a sportsbook, in 2015. It has over 400 games, taking in over $400 million in bets yearly.
• Ontario legalize online gambling age for betting is 19. Gamblers must provide ID to enter casinos, or register on PlayOLG.
• The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) is regulated by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). The OLG must adhere to the Gaming Control Act, 1992, its regulations, and other provincial & federal laws. The main requirements include ensuring the integrity and fairness of games, protecting players, and preventing money laundering and other criminal activities.
• OLG contributes nearly $2 billion annually to Ontario’s government to fund public healthcare, education, and other programs. However, critics argue it has high social costs as well.
• Table games like blackjack and roulette are only permitted at commercial casinos. Private venues are restricted to slots. Poker is prohibited outside of casinos.
• Ontario has a self-exclusion program for problem betters. It spends tens of millions annually on treatment and education to promote responsible play.
• First Nations reserves in Ontario operate casinos under federal Ontario online gambling laws but must follow similar OLG regulations to be legally accessed by off-reserve patrons. Revenue benefits First Nations communities.

The OLG strictly regulates a large market in Ontario that generates substantial revenue, although not without social impacts along with policy debates. The regulation aims to limit risks while permitting private sector operators and various levels of government.

Regulators and Canadian Online Gambling Laws by Provinces

Gambling has been regulated in Canada since 1892, and it is now under provincial jurisdiction as a legal activity. In 1985, many provinces began introducing the lottery, casinos, and slot machines. 2010 Canada’s Criminal Code was amended to allow local governments to offer online gambling. As a result, it is legal in Canada. However, regulations and laws differ slightly in each province.

• Alberta. Legal gambling age – 18, regulatory body – Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission. Gambling is legal in Alberta and has been regulated since 1970. Options include slots, bingo, horse racing, and online casino/poker services.
• British Columbia. Legal gambling age – 19, regulatory body – British Columbia Lottery Corporation. Regulates casino, bingo, and horse racing. Legalized gambling in 1970. PlayNow.com offers internet gambling with slots, poker, and sports betting.
• Manitoba. Legal gambling age –  18, regulatory body – Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation. Established in 1970, it offers online casinos, poker, and limited sports betting.

• New Brunswick. Legal gambling age – 19, regulatory body – Atlantic Lottery Corporation. Atlantic Lottery Corporation has overseen gambling in New Brunswick since 1970, regulating scratch tickets, keno, poker, limited sports betting, and online casino games.
• Newfoundland and Labrador. Legal gambling age – 19, regulatory body – Atlantic Lottery Corporation.Newfoundland legalized limited gambling in 1975. The Atlantic Lottery Corporation regulates all primary gaming operations, including Canadian online gambling. The main types are a traditional lottery, scratch & win, keno, and some online casino games.
• Ontario. Legal gambling age – 19,  regulatory body – Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG). Regulates bingo, casinos, horse racing, and PlayOLG.ca for online gambling. Established in 1975, it offers slots, table games, poker, and limited sports betting on PlayOLG.
• Prince Edward Island. Legal gambling age – 19,  regulatory body – Atlantic Lottery Corporation. The Atlantic Lottery Corporation oversees a lottery, bingo, and video lottery. Authorized gambling started in 1976, with limited virtual options like casino games and keno.
• Quebec. Legal gambling age – 18,  regulatory body – Loto-Quebec. Loto-Quebec regulates gambling, including bingo, horse racing, and four casinos. Established in 1969, they offer virtual services such as casino games, poker, sports betting, and lottery through LotoQuebec.com.
• Saskatchewan. Legal gambling age – 19,  regulatory body – Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority. It was legalized in 1974 and overseen by the regulatory body for physical and online casinos. Limited options include table games, slots, poker, plus sports betting.
• Yukon, Nunavut, and Northwest Territories. Legal gambling age – 18. Limited regulated internet gambling options. Residents can use offshore sites. Strong restrictions on physical casinos. Only one casino each in Yukon and Northwest Territories.

By Popular Activity Types: Online Gambling Laws in Canada

Online gambling laws in Canada are complex, varying by province. Generally, it is legal in Canada, but each province has its regulatory framework. The Criminal Code of Canada sets out federal laws related to betting, including prohibiting certain gambling activities.

• Canadian online gambling sites: Internet gambling was illegal in Canada until provinces regulated sites. British Columbia launched Canada’s first legal online casino in 2004. Others followed.
• Casinos are legal in Canada, regulated provincially since 1985. Revenues fund healthcare along with education. The industry employs 128,000, generating $16 billion annually.
• Online Slots comprise 60% of revenues in Canada’s casinos. Provinces operate slots, contributing over $2 billion yearly for social programs.
• Poker has gained popularity in Canada since 2003. Regulated online poker generated $100 million in 2019. Home games are permitted but unregulated.
• Sports Lotteries are legal in Canada. Launched in 1969, they fund amateur sports, healthcare, and education. Annual revenues exceed $10 billion, with $1 billion going to charities.

Revenues from these operations provide substantial funding for social programs, healthcare, education, and charities nationwide. The regulation aims to encourage responsible play and mitigate risks.

Secure Online Canadian Gambling: Best Online Casinos in Canada

Canadians enjoy plating, whether at land-based casinos or online. Legitimate and strictly regulated internet gambling options in Canada provide secure opportunities to play casino games or bet on sports. Licensed sites uphold high standards for fair play, financial security, and responsible betting.

• Yoju Casino is a popular one available at the best Canadian online gambling sites, offering slots, poker, and blackjack. It is licensed in Kahnawake, Quebec, to secure personal data. Welcome bonus up to C$500 for Canadians.
• SkyCrown has live dealer games and slots from trusted software providers. They follow strict responsible playing Canada gambling laws in Malta and offer a C$1,500 bonus plus free spins for those who sign up.
• Zoome Casino, licensed by the Kahnawake Gaming Commission, offers secure communication and financial transactions. Canadians can enjoy a C$1,200 welcome bonus along with 120 free spins for popular slots and live casino games.
• Tonybet is licensed in Estonia, the UK, and Canada. Live betting, poker, plus slots are available. Uses the latest technology to ensure safe transactions and responsible play. New Canadian customers receive a C$120 risk-free bet.

SUMMARY QUESTIONS:

• How is gambling regulated in Canada? Canada regulates it federally through section 207 of the Criminal Code, but each province has its regulations within its borders.
• Who regulates gambling in Canada? Provincial and territorial governments regulate it, setting Canada gambling laws and minimum age requirements, issuing licenses, and enforcing standards for safe and fair play.

• Where is gambling legal in Canada? Legal gambling in Canada is overseen by the provincial governments, not the federal government. Most provinces allow various forms, including casinos, slots, lotteries, and horse racing.

• What is the Canada online gambling license? The Kahnawake Gaming Commission licenses such sites in Canada, ensuring they operate legally and comply with regulations to protect players, prevent underage playing, and handle funds securely.

 

By Staff

June 16th, 2023

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Sport Alliance 2023 award winners.

Junior Athlete of the Year – Andrea Cabio (tennis)

Athletes of the Year – Michael Gligic (golf), Emma Maltais (hockey)

Master Athletes of the Year – Tom Adams (swimming), Suzanne Ruginis (swimming)

Special Olympians of the Year – Nicholas Rodriguez (multi-sport athlete), Katie Veitch

Parasport Athletes of the Year – Shayne Sharkey (wheelchair basketball), Katie Cosgriffe (swimming)

Coach of the Year – Mariya Kovtun (rhythmic gymnastics)

Volunteer Sport Builder – Nick Manz (rugby)

AJ Dunn Sport Builder – Don McMillan (posthumously) – BIG Executive Director, Baseball Coach, Broadcaster

Official of the Year – Ivy Callaghan (swimming)

Team of the Year – Nexxice Junior Synchronized Skating Team

The achievements of these incredible members of our sporting community will be recognized at an awards ceremony to take place at the Polish Hall at 2316 Fairview, on Tuesday June 20th. at 6:00pm.

For tickets please contact Jillsutherlandbsa@outlook.com.