City Manager will meet with Stephen White (virtually) then a larger group later in the day

By Pepper Parr

August 31st, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Has it all really come to this:

A Hamilton radio station is reported to have referred to the Burlington Coyote problem as “whistlegate”

Whatever happened to the best mid-sized city in the country to lIve in?

Other than the city and some of the Councillors handing out whistles to anyone who passes by, there was the sense that nothing was going to get done until the middle of September when a report was to be presented at a Standing committee.

City Manager Tim Commisso

Not so – there is to be a meeting on Thursday with Stephen While, one of the authors of the Burlington Oakville Coyote Management report and the City Manager to be followed by another meeting later in the day that appears to include a larger participation.

If all the members of Councillor are on the call – would that make it a meeting of Council ? – perhaps the City Clerk might want to rule on that.  Nothing on the city calendar at this point.

There is no agenda that the Gazette is aware of – however this would be a perfect opportunity to verbally ask the questions he put to the city when his report was first made public – something, by the way, that the Gazette first published.

The five questions were:

 

1) Why does BOCM have to wait over six months for City of Burlington officials to read BOCM’s Report and provide comments and feedback on our recommendations?

2)            Why did Nick Anastasopoulos say that our Report had not been sent to Coyote Watch, but Rosemary Fitzpatrick advised us in mid-May that is what had occurred?

3)            Why did Tim Commisso say in a June 2nd meeting that he would get back to us with a response shortly, but we are still waiting?  How long are we expected to wait?

4)            Why did Nick Anastasopoulos feel it was all right to forward a Report created by an outside advocacy group to another third party advocacy group without our prior knowledge or approval?

5)            Why does City Hall not have a formal, established process for reviewing Reports and recommendations from outside entities and organizations?

While this whole business is an embarrassment – there is as well a serious public safety issue that many don’t feel is going to be solved with people blowing a whistle when a coyote is spotted.

The upside is that there do not appear to be anymore reports of people being attacked by a coyote.  Was it just the one animal? With at one “eliminated”?

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Community Development Halton looking for directors to fill vacancies on the Board

By Staff

August 30th, 2022

BURLINGTON. ON

 

Community Development Halton (CDH) is seeking applicants for vacant roles on the Board of Directors.

Eligible applicants live and/or work in the Halton community and wish to contribute as unpaid, volunteers to help CDH achieve the stated Mission: Through research, community development, planning and promoting volunteerism Community Development Halton strives to improve the quality of life for all residents of Halton.

Interested people are asked to please email your letter and resume by September 2, 2022 at 5:00 pm to the Nominating Committee: CDH Board of Directors at office@cdhalton.ca. All applicants will be contacted. Selected applicants will be invited to a virtual interview using Zoom. Candidates will be put forward for election at the Board’s Annual General Meeting in late September.

CDH is a nonprofit, charitable organization focused on the impact of economic, political, social and cultural forces on individuals, families and stakeholders in Burlington, Halton Hills, Milton and Oakville.

CDH supports three programs:

  • The Social Planning program engages with the community to identify strengths and weaknesses and determine ways to improve the quality of life in the Halton community.
  • Volunteer Halton supports the promotion of It provides residents and nonprofit agencies with volunteer opportunity matching services, as well as building the capacity of nonprofits through training, consulting and resources.
  • Age-Friendly Cities and Communities encourages active and healthy aging by promoting inclusive opportunities for health, participation, and security in order to enhance quality of life as people Visit www.cdhalton.ca for more information about CDH.

Directors serve on the Board for a term of three years with options to renew. Board meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Directors also participate in ad hoc committees, with the total average time commitment of approximately 50-60 hours per year.

The CDH Board strives to reflect the strengths and diversity of the Halton community. CDH welcomes applications from people with disabilities and encourages people to make requests for accommodations at any point in the process. Preference will be given to candidates who demonstrate that they are committed to equity and social justice and have a passion for and/or experience with the following:

  • Community needs in Halton Region;
  • Human services and nonprofit organizations;
  • Accounting and financial practices;
  • Communications and marketing;
  • Legal knowledge and expertise;
  • Citizen engagement and collective impact
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City uses Twitter to inform public of free whistle distribution

By Pepper Parr

August 30th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

In an announcement sent out via Twitter the city administration said:

The city is reported to have purchased 12oo of thee whistles.

In light of recent coyote attacks in south-central and southeast Burlington, we are giving out coyote whistles to help you ‘haze’ coyotes you may encounter.

Ron Foxcroft, Centre with his son Ronnie and Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns with the Fox40 whistle.

The whistles are available, first come, first serve basis at:

Service Burlington, Sims Square, 390 Brant St., third floor

Nelson Recreation Centre, 4235 New St.

Burlington Public Library Branches:

Aldershot Branch, 550 Plains Rd. E.

Alton Branch, 3040 Tim Dobbie Dr.

Brant Hills Branch, 2255 Brant St. o

Central Branch, 2331 New St. o

Kilbride Branch, 6611 Panton St.

New Appleby Branch, 676 Appleby Line o

Tansley Woods Branch, 1996 Itabashi Way

That was it.  For those who aren’t glued to Twitter – well they don’t know.

Something is seriously wrong in the Communications department if this is the best they can do to effectively communicate with a public that is asking a lot of questions.  There will be a Staff report going to Council for a September 14th meeting.

UPDATE The city did send out a media release later in the day.

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My Pop - sings popular music in two- and three-part harmony.

By Staff

August 30th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Do you love to sing popular music,

like Elvis’ “Love Me Tender“ or “That’ll Be The Day”

Come “join” our choir!

No tryout required!!

These are the people you gotta talk to:

Alex Fiddles https://www.mypopchoir.com

Jane Cooper-Kelly 905-802-8487

My Pop Choir (MPC) sings popular music in two- and three-part harmony.

We are holding summer rehearsals by candlelight, in a beautiful garden setting, backing on to the Centennial Multi-use Path in the Lakeshore School Community.

MPC is a community-based choir, with one qualification for membership:

“You gotta love to sing” 🎶 No tryout required. 😊

When/Where:

Wednesday August 31. 2022

Final rehearsed songs to be sung at 8:30pm

Between Martha Street and Seneca Avenue

How:

Hop on your bike or take an evening stroll…

Look for the twinkling candlelight…

Listen for the magical voices of…

This sounds like a fun event – wish we had heard about it earlier so more of you could take part.

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McDonald to talk about the Halton County Courthouse and Jail - the place where Milton Town Councillors now meet

By Pepper Parr

August 31st, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Good speakers are always a delight to listen to – you learn a lot and you find the time was well spent.

The Burlington Historical Society will feature John McDonald at their September 12th meeting that will take place at 7:00 pm in the Centennial Hall at the Central Library

John McDonald – to talk about the former Halton County Jail – now the Milton Town Hall and what Prohibition was like in the Region.

McDonald was born in Milton, Ontario and is a lifelong resident of Halton. He graduated from Ryerson Polytechnic Institute and has served as a Member of Council with both Halton Hills and the Region of Halton.

John has conducted extensive research throughout the Halton area since the early 1970s including numerous presentations and walking tours. This work has resulted in the publication of three books: Halton Sketches, Halton Sketches Revisited and Halton’s Heritage. He is a founding member of the Esquesing Historical Society.

Once the Court House and Jail – now Town of Milton offices

John was awarded the Ontario Heritage Community Recognition Program “Certificate of Achievement” and recognized for his community efforts and historical research when presented with the “Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal”.

Join John for a fascinating look at the history of the Halton County Courthouse and Jail as well as the impact of the Temperance Movement and Prohibition in Burlington

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Pickleball seems to be THE issue in ward 3

By Pepper Parr

August 30th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Wards 2, 4 and 5 have serious issues with public safety and coyotes that are actually scratching people.

In ward 3 life is idyllic, the issue in that part of the city is pickleball, a sport that has become very popular, especially with the senior set.

Part of a electronic conversation ward 3 Councillor Rory Nisan had with some of his citizens went like this:

I had a good chat with Bozana, an ardent advocate for pickleball in the community, today and here are a few of the outcomes as well as some clarity on items.

Action Items:
1. We will NOT create / enforce a pickleball ban at the Brant Hills Tennis Courts. The lines are being removed but people can still play there casually and the net that is there will be left there.

2. Casual pickleball is also possible at the basketball nets/parking lot in the middle of the park

3. We will establish a local group of interested pickleball players that the ward Councillor can work with on future changes and to advocate for more pickleball opportunities in Brant Hills and the area.

4. We will, with this new group, consider future capital expenditures in Brant Hills and the area to have more pickleball that is not too close to neighbours.

Additional info:
5. Consultation on this change of use was insufficient and the city (and councillor aka me) commit to do better in the future

6. There are valid concerns from local residents as reinforced by the consultant’s report, including the early start and late finish times of some users

7. Everyone has a right to the peaceful enjoyment of their backyard and while local residents never complained about tennis, pickleball noise is different

8. Other mitigation options are not feasible unfortunately

9. Pickleball players have good reason to not be happy about having to go to Ireland Park for a formal outdoor court

Ward 3 Councillor Rory Nisan

10. Play time is available at the Brant Hills Community Centre

I hope this helps. I do want to recognize that communication and consultation could have been better.

If you’re interested in joining the local pickleball advocacy group please email ward3@burlington.ca.

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Regional Police Launch Project Safe Start 2022

By Staff

August 29th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

It is that time of year again – the kids are back in school – excited to see their friends and not quite as safety minded as their parents would like to see.

What every driver dreads is the seeing a youth dash out in front of their car and, even thought they are driving below the limit they sense their may be contact.

The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) has prepared and is ready to launch their back to school safety program – Project Safe Start.

This will be the 15th year the HRPS has conducted this homegrown campaign, which focuses on education, awareness and high-visibility enforcement of traffic laws throughout Halton region. Project Safe Start 2022 will run between Monday, August 29 and Friday, September 9, 2022.

Every road user in Halton plays a critical role in road safety. Remember:

  • When driving, everything else can wait. You are driving distracted if your eyes, hands and/or mind are not focused on the task of driving. Motorists are reminded that holding a cellular phone in your hands is an offence, regardless of whether you are talking on it, using the navigation system, or changing a song. This is still applicable when stopped at a red light.
  • Drive at a safe speed. Always abide by posted speed limits, with special care in community safety zones with special speed limits. Aggressive driving such as speeding, tailgating and failing to comply with road signs increase the likelihood of a collision. Aggressive driving reduces your reaction time and makes your vehicle movements unpredictable to other drivers.
  • Drive responsibly. Drug-impaired and alcohol-impaired driving can result in serious injury or death to you, your loved ones and other road users. Impairment from alcohol and other drugs slows your ability to react to changing road conditions.

The back-to-school season results in increased pedestrian and vehicular traffic across our region. As always, the HRPS is encouraging drivers to use heightened awareness and caution.

Halton residents have ranked traffic concerns as their #1 policing priority. Project Safe Start is just one of many campaigns the HRPS engages in throughout the year in an effort to educate the public and enforce the Highway Traffic Act and other traffic-related legislation.

Pedestrians, cyclists, motorists and police all play an integral role in ensuring safer roads within Halton region – we thank the community for doing their part.

 

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Arrests made in Drug and Gun Investigation

By Staff

August 29th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

On August 26th, 2022, members of the Halton Regional Police Service Drug and Human Trafficking Unit (DHTU) concluded a two-month investigation in relation to a drug trafficking network based in the Town of Halton Hills that spanned across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

Between August 25th and 26th 2022, three Controlled Drugs and Substances Act Search Warrants were executed at residences in Georgetown and Toronto. Investigators seized:

• A loaded 9mm Taurus G3C handgun.
• A loaded fully automatic 9mm Glock 26 handgun
• Three additional loaded magazines which included a prohibited capacity magazine.
• 290 rounds of 9mm ammunition.
• Approximately: 330 grams of Cocaine, 80 grams of Fentanyl, 95 grams of Methamphetamine (Crystal Meth), 332 Oxycodone pills, 260 Xanax pills, 30 Hydromorphone pills, and 8 grams of crack cocaine.
• Bundled Canadian Currency estimated at approximately $15,000.

“The modified fully automatic nature of the firearm seized in this investigation illustrates a disturbing trend in the lengths individuals will go to protect their illicit drug trafficking networks. This investigation illustrates our officers’ dedication in interdicting these firearms and drugs, and holding those engaged in these reprehensible acts accountable,” says Inspector Dave Costantini, Halton Regional Police Intelligence, Drugs and Human Trafficking.

Six individuals were subsequently arrested and charged for their alleged involvement. The following individuals have been charged:

Aristotle Berlanguet (20) of Georgetown
• Careless use of a Firearm
• Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
• Possession of a Restricted Firearm with Ammunition
• Trafficking a controlled substance (Cocaine)
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (6 counts)
• Unauthorized Possession of a Prohibited Device
• Possession of Proceeds Obtained by Crime Over
• Fail to Comply with Release Order

Adam Griffin (20) of Georgetown
• Careless use of a Firearm
• Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
• Possession of a Restricted Firearm with Ammunition
• Possession for the purpose of trafficking (7 counts)
• Fail to Comply with Release Order

Gabriel Kopcsanyi (40) of Toronto:
• Careless Use of a Firearm
• Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
• Possession of a Restricted Firearm with Ammunition
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (8 counts)
• Careless Use of a Firearm
• Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
• Possession of a Restricted Firearm with Ammunition
• Possession of Proceeds Obtained by Crime Under $5000

Gabor Horvath (42) of Etobicoke:
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine)
• Possession of a Controlled Substance (Cocaine)

Bill Chantzopoulos (57) of Toronto:
• Possession of a Controlled Substance (Fentanyl)

Virginia Dos Santos (62) of Toronto:
• Possession of a Controlled Substance (Fentanyl).

Berlanguet, Kopcsanyi, and Griffin were held pending a bail hearing. Horvath, Chantzopoulos, and Dos Santos were released on an undertaking with future court dates.

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If there was ever a time for a Strategy, some serious Risk analysis and Accountability on the part of the city - this is it

By Pepper Parr

August 29th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

OPINION

City Manager Tim Commisso has advised Stephen White that Staff will be producing a report on the coyote problem that will be presented to the Corporate Services Strategy Risk and Accountability Standing Committee on September 14th

Is the city manager losing his grip on an issue that trouble many people in the city.

He also plans to meet with Mr. White on Thursday of this week. White said he has no idea what is going to take place at that meeting.

Commisso is reported to have said that he is prepared to add additional funding to the problem.

We also learn that there is now a sign at the intersection of Lakeshore Road and Guelph line advising/informing the public about the coyote problem.

A Gazette reader, in a comment she wrote in the Gazette comments section  “A small child was dragged out of their backyard by the neck by a coyote before their dad saved them.´

We suspect the comment stretched the truth quite a bit – the point however is that there is a population worried, afraid and uncertain.

Stephen White has been asked to attend a meeting with the City Manager to “talk about” the coyote problem in the city. White doesn’t know what the agenda is.

That population also has a problem with a city Council that does not appear to know how to address a serious issue – the safety of the public.

There is an opportunity here for the City Manager to ask the Mayor to call an emergency meeting of city council to bring the public up to date on what has happened, with a lot of detail, and to set out the immediate steps that can and will be taken.

If there was ever a time for some Strategy Risk and Accountability from the city manager and City Council – this is it.

A sign at an intersection doesn’t quite cut it.

We have a public that is worried; we have members of Council who had, until very recently, not seen the report and we have some dangerously exaggerated comments being made.

An Emergency meeting before everyone leaves town for the Labour Day holiday is in order.

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.

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Something very very wrong with the way information is being disseminated by city hall on the coyote problem

By Pepper Parr

August 29th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

In a statement put out by Ward 4 Councillor Shawna Stolte she said:

Ward 4 Councillor Shawna Stolte

This Report was not circulated or communicated to all of Council.

I only learned about this Report and Recommendations within the last 3 days while participating in meetings aimed to address the community crisis of the recent aggressive coyote attacks.

I look forward to hearing in more detail of the recommendations provided by this community group who has taken the time to research and provide valuable input.

The report Stolte is referring to is one researched and written by Stephen White and Julie Martin on the coyote problem Burlington is experiencing.

The Gazette reported on three coyote interacting with people and either scratching them or biting them but apparently not drawing blood.

The city hired an expert to track the animal and kill it.  The word used by Stolte when she reported on this was “eliminate”.

In the report Stolte is referring to there is a clearly laid out time line setting out each step the Burlington Oakville Coyote Management group took.

Councillor Sharman was by this date fully aware of the report that the Burlington Oakville Coyote Management had researched and written.

There is something very very wrong here.

The Mayor has said she is deeply concerned.  The City Manager has had the report for some time.

City Manager Tim Commisso

Yet at least two city Councillors say they had not seen the report.  Councillor Kearns last week asked the Gazette where she could get a copy of the report.

The report is out there, the city administration and the Mayor and at least one city Councillor had been fully briefed.

Which leads to the questions Stephen White and July Martin put to the City administration:

 

1) Why does BOCM have to wait over six months for City of Burlington officials to read BOCM’s Report and provide comments and feedback on our recommendations?

2)            Why did Nick Anastasopoulos say that our Report had not been sent to Coyote Watch, but Rosemary Fitzpatrick advised us in mid-May that is what had occurred?

City Manager Tim Commisso

3)            Why did Tim Commisso say in a June 2nd meeting that he would get back to us with a response shortly, but we are still waiting?  How long are we expected to wait?

4)            Why did Nick Anastasopoulos feel it was all right to forward a Report created by an outside advocacy group to another third party advocacy group without our prior knowledge or approval?

5)            Why does City Hall not have a formal, established process for reviewing Reports and recommendations from outside entities and organizations?

Good questions.

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That tree bylaw - is it doing what people want it to do - some see it as a cash grab

By Pepper Parr

August 29th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Burlington’s citizens have had significant differences of opinion over just what the tree bylaw should do for some time..

Some don’t want the city telling them what to do with trees on their property while others welcome the practice of requiring people to get permission to cut down a tree on their property.

Adding to the number of trees is an ongoing project – keeping climate change at an acceptable level requires that everyone be on board.

Climate change is taking place and the canopy coverage is now not just a nice thing to have but something that is essential if we are to have any hope of how we individually manage climate change.

One Gazette reader said:

I’m not sure most people are aware of how expensive it is to have an unhealthy tree in Burlington now.

A good friend of mine has a large tree in his backyard that is hollow for several feet from the base and obviously in danger of falling.  He already had a similar tree brought down by a bad storm that took out a fence.  He contacted the city to access the tree and the city arborist said it was healthy.  A lay person can see it’s not.

For my friend to cut the tree down it will cost several thousand dollars and will require he pay an application fee to have it cut down.   He also has to plant 5 trees because of it’s girth that his yard cannot support.   Thus he has to pay a penalty because he can’t plant that many trees.   It’s hard to believe this is a democratic country right now.     In the past if a tree was sick or close to the house the fee was waived but no longer.   The bylaw was changed last year and now makes it nearly impossible to protect your property from a falling tree.   He is willing to let the tree fall now and damage his own or neighbour’s house than cut it down.   What a sad city we have become.

Not sure you have done any story on our tree loving bylaw recently but its worth a look on what the city has imposed with little communication.

Was it necessary to cut these trees ? The current tree bylaw would require getting permission and replacing five tree for each tree cut down

We are clearly not yet at the point where there s a wide consensus on just what a tree bylaw should do and who should pay the costs involved.

Is this an issue that should be given serious attention during the election campaign that will become much more active once the holiday weekend is over ?

 

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Candidates are gearing up for what is now a 57 day drive before ballots are cast

By Pepper Parr

August 29th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

And what did you do over the weekend?

It just might become a “whistle while you walk” exercise for people in several of the city wards. Councillor Lisa Kearns handing out Fox40 whistles.

Lisa Kearns, Councillor for ward 2, was handing out whistles to anybody who wanted one.  They are supposed to scare away any coyotes that crossed your path – which is a common occurrence in the ward.

Tim O’Brien, who would like to replace Kearns as the Councillor for the ward said that “his feet were killing him as he walked from door to door telling his story.

Just about all the candidates running for the first time have their web sites in place and their volunteers lined up.

The concern over the coyote problem isn’t just in the minds of the people who are out walking.  Members of Council are complaining that they did not see the report prepared by a small group of Oakville and Burlington citizens nor were they aware that it even existed.

Related news stories:

The time line

The report and its recommendations.

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Everything you need to know about the Formula 1 summer break 

By Justina Gartlab

August 29th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Formula 1 summer break is a short period in between the season where there are no official F1 races. The break is so fundamental that there is a strict closure of factories and other F1-related industries with only basic functions allowed to proceed.

The thrill of being at the track or watching the races on TV is something you never forget – but drivers and the rest of the team do need a break.

The break is upheld by article 21.8 of the FIA sporting regulations which states “all competitors must observe a closing period of fourteen consecutive days during July and/or August.”

In the 2022-2023 season, the summer break extends between late July, after the Hungarian GP, and Late August, just in time for the Belgian GP. You can find more information about sports interaction bonus and promotions to improve your F1 races betting experience ahead of the season resumption.

What is the importance of the F1 summer break?  To provide drivers an opportunity for social interactions

If you love the F1 races, you will certainly be glued to your screen in a bid to catch the matches which happen almost every other weekend as there are over twenty races in every season.

However, you have to admit that the drivers are as human as you, and need a social life far from the spectators. The break gives them ample time to relax and reconnect with their families and friends without the hassle of training.

For instance, Lewis Hamilton says he is fully transformed and more in touch with his  ‘roots’ following his African visit during the lapsed break.

This team is a vital and critical part of winning a race.

The personnel teams such as those working in production, car design, and development also get to share in it. This prevents any parties from gaining a competitive advantage over the other, as neither can hold meetings or engage in planning activities unless with the authorization of FIA.

As the F1 teams resume working immediately after the Christmas break, this is their first and actual resting period without interruptions.

To minimize costs

With the production, planning, and designing functions on hold, the F1 teams and stakeholders can cut the majority of their costs then. Research projects are also paused which lowers the costs.

Races after the 2022 summer break

If you are looking for new ways to spice up your autumn season, these upcoming Grand Prix events are exciting races will surely keep you company.

Belgian GP               26 -28 August

Dutch GP                  2-4 September

Italian GP                  9-11 September

Singapore GP           30 – 2 October. 

Japanese GP            7-9 October

United States GP       21-23 October

Mexican City GP        28-30 October

 

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What are the Best On Line Betting Locations in Canada

By Novo Benaojan

August 30th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Canadians are best known for their love for entertainment and wagering of any form is welcome. Betting online is very popular with Canadians and among their favorite pastime is playing poker or any card games virtual or live. It may be challenging to look for the best online casino but many betting sites offer a wide range of games and the best bonus.

Gambling is entertainment – done responsibly with friends and never having to leave the house is what has made online gambling so popular.

Canada is lenient in gambling as long as the player is of legal age of 19 although in Quebec people are allowed to gamble at the age of 18 therefore no one is prosecuted for gambling online or land-based as long as they are playing in a licensed casino. Online betting is acceptable in the country because it is not indicated in their criminal code that it is illegal. One thing is sure, Canadian players follow the gambling standard procedure locally and offshore as well as its rules.

Additional Legal Information of Canada

  • Canadians play for leisure.
  • Canadian players are not liable for any legal or reputational risk due to gambling.
  • It is illegal to operate any form of gambling without a license.
  • All winnings are non-taxable therefore the player can enjoy their payout of 100%.
  • It is legal to wager online from offshore.

All online casinos from Canada are legal and guaranteed safe from malicious cyber issues and any form of virtual threats because all sites have powerful firewalls and are equipped with the Secure Socket Layer of the SSL which is used by major banks all over the world. The SSL encrypts the personal information of the operator and the player to ensure the safety and security of their data.

What can online wagering offer

Mobile compatibility

Majority of the online punters prefer betting through their smartphones because of their convenience and easy access. Mobile wagering is suitable for modern people with a modern lifestyle. All casino sites are constantly updating their site to cope with the modernity of the gadget, the speed of the internet, and the digital technology itself. Lately, 5Gen has been introduced hence the majority of the online punters also updated their gadgets which is why major online casinos upgrade their sites. However, some punters whose devices were not updated can play and wager thru Cloud Gaming.

The winnings are real but it is a game of chance.

Efficient claim of winnings

The online casino has diverse payment options such as digital wallets like Paypal, open banking payment methods like Trustly, and Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. There are a lot more payment systems that are available in major online casinos for the player’s convenience in all monetary transactions.

Real Money

The best part of using real money in the online casino is the bigger chance to win and receive real cash which most Canadians like the most.

Benefits

One of the big reasons why many people were drawn to online gambling in Canada is the numerous bonuses and benefits. Casino sites also offer promos and coupons and some tournaments to delight avid online gamblers.

Numerous Games to enjoy

Physical and online casinos offer similar types of games. It differs from the diverse ways in which the punter can play online. Online casino software offers more than 3000 modes of games using advanced graphics and sounds. Major casinos have two or more gaming software for the players to have the best online casino gaming experience.

Listed below are the online casino games played by most Canadian punters:

      • Blackjack
      • Craps
      • Sic Bo
      • Keno
      • Poker
      • Baccarat
      • Slot Machines
      • Bingo
      • Roulette

All of these games ensure high-quality graphics with state-of-the-art sounds and technology which synchronizes to most games of the online casino. Best of all, they also have various bonuses and benefits plus higher Return to Player or RTP compared to land-based casinos.

This just how comfortable and relaxing playing on line can be.

Convenience

Comfort in wagering is one of the key reasons why people prefer wagering online. Having the liberty to place a bet anytime and anywhere and to be in control is indeed the best.

Final Insight

All forms of wagering in Canada are embraced as long as the operator and the player follow the rules the government implemented. However, due to its leniency, issues of gambling addiction might occur hence moderation is always advised.

 

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Casino Zeus Ranks Canadian Online Locations

By Roman Melton

August 29, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Having gone live earlier this year, Casino Zeus is still a recent addition to the online gambling house review scene.

Nonetheless, it has swiftly proven itself a source of trustworthy and reliable information regarding gaming regulations in Canada.

The website also features a Canadian online casinos list, with some of the most trustworthy and entertaining online gambling houses, according to resident gambling expert Olexiy Ivanov. By weighing up several key factors in what results in the most enjoyable online gambling experience, Ivanov has ranked numerous leading online casinos in Canada for the convenience of gamers throughout the country.

We’ll begin with a brief explanation of the legality of online casinos in Canada. After that, we’ll guide you on a whistle-stop tour of five of the best Canadian casino sites, according to Casino Zeus.

Legalization and Regulation of Online Casinos in Canada
Canadian regulations surrounding online casinos initially seem complex but are actually fairly simple. Basically, even though it’s illegal to operate online casinos out of Canada, it is one hundred percent safe and legal to play at offshore gaming sites instead.

Not only is it entirely legal to play at offshore net casinos, but it’s also highly popular.

Almost twenty million people play at a casino online. Net casinos operating offshore earned a gross turnover of over C$610 million in 2021.

It can be fun, and you can play with friends.

So, if you live in Canada and are interested in doing a little online gambling, there’s no need to worry; you’re not breaking any laws when using offshore casinos! The pastime is entirely legitimate. Nevertheless, you should ensure that you’re absolutely scrupulous when your security is concerned. That’s where Casino Zeus’ list of trusted online casinos in Canada might help.

Grading the Best Online Casinos in Canada 2022
Here is a list of the best online gambling sites in Canada. This list has been taken from Casino Zeus’ ranking of the top ten Canadian casino clubs on the internet.

When searching for a net casino to play at, you should ensure you remain aware both of how fun and rewarding the site is and of your security. While compiling their Canada online casinos list, Casino Zeus was careful to take all these things into account.
Casino
Bonus
# of games
Licencing

Kosmonaut Online Casino
200% up to C$2,000
More than 500
Curacao eGaming

Kaiser Slots
200% deposit bonus up to C$110
More than 700
UK Gambling Commission

Spin Casino
200% deposit bonus up to C$110
More than 700
Malta Gaming Authority and UK Gambling Commission

Royal Vegas
C$1,200
More than 1,500
Malta Gaming Authority

GamingClub Casino
C$1,200
More than 1,500
Malta Gaming Authority

When researching what casino you should try, it’s important that you do your own rigorous research. Read up on what those with expertise in online gambling have to say on the subject; taking advice from trustworthy professionals in the area will very rarely lead you astray! That’s why we recommend having a look at Casino Zeus’ website for more information.

The Main Criteria for Ranking Online Casinos in Canada
Having now presented you with a short list of five of the most trusted casinos online Canada has to offer, we’ll talk a little bit about the criteria behind this ranking. After all, if you’re to do your own research into online casinos, you’d best know what it is you’re looking for.

Here is a list of criteria used when reviewing online casinos:

Does the site have good user ratings? If so, then it is likely very trustworthy, secure, and fun.

Is the casino properly licensed by recognized regulatory bodies? A quick way to check this for yourself is to scan the site footer for a recognizable gaming authority logo.

Does the casino use reliable data protection methods to guarantee you and your money are safe?

Is help readily available through their website—i.e. for technical difficulties, inquiries ?

All of these issues, and more, are taken into account when ranking online casinos.

When compiling their list, Casino Zeus used these very criteria to rate each and every site.

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Sharman to hold meeting to explain hazing coyotes to the public

By Staff

August 27th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Councillor Paul Sharman of Ward 5 is reported to be running a public education session on hazing techniques on Sunday, August 28

The event will begin at 9 a.m. at Pineland School on Meadowhill Road; Burlington
Animal Control staff will also be in attendance.

Councillor Sharman commented that “The city is committed to eliminate animals that attack people and draw blood. My best wishes to the people who were bitten for a speedy recovery.”

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OLT Hearing phases

By Pepper Parr

August 26th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

When the Interim Control Bylaw was put in place in a number of years ago, close to 40 development applications were taken to what was then called the Local Planning Authority Tribunal (LPAT)

That organization is now called the Ontario Land Tribunal

With 40+ appeals the Tribunal needed to get a handle on just what it is the each appeal was about – the specifics.

It took some time – but the Tribunal has now put each appeal into a category where the specifics of the appeals are similar.

There are nine categories that are being called phases.  some phases have several categories

Phase 1: Rural

Phase 1A: Agriculture

Phase 1B: Natural Heritage

Phase 1C: Aggregates

Phase 2: Implementation / Development Approvals Process Phase 3: Growth Framework/Urban Structure/Land Use Phase 4: Downtown Urban Centre & Urban Design

There might be a book to be written on the impact this rinky dinky bus terminal has had on the high rise development in the downtown core

Phase 5: Major Transit Station Areas

Phase 6: Supporting Growth

Phase 6A: Parkland

Phase 6B: Public Service Facilities, Infrastructure & Utilities

Phase 7: Housing

Phase 8: Employment

Phase 9: Site-Specific

Dates for each of these Phases are still being worked out – it is clear that the process is going to require years – perhaps longer than the term of Council citizens are going to elect in October.

So – what is it that gets litigated during these hearings?  This details are mind boggling – the details take up 60 pages.

We will follow up with those before the end of the month.

This is a Friday – there is nice weekend weather ahead of us – so the Gazette might be a little quiet.

Update on Waterfront Hotel redevelopment plans:

One interesting bit of news.  The first Case Management Conference on the Waterfront Hotel appeal took place this morning.

The city appears to have decent legal counsel in place.

They will be back at it on October 7th, 2 to argue a motion on the applicability of the decision to move the Urban Growth Centre boundaries north – which would impact the density levels for the Waterfront Hotel property redevelopment

 

 

 

 

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Why do we learn again and again that city staff and city councillors have either forgotten how to listen or just don't want to listen

By Pepper Parr

August 26th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

OPINION

We learned yesterday that the city has had a report, put together by citizens from Oakville and Burlington, on how to better manage the coyote problem and the risk they present to the public.

We learned that the report sat on a shelf, it was apparently not even acknowledged. The group did everything they could – shown clearly in the time line they provided.

To say that the people on both the administrative and the elected sides should be ashamed is about all the average Burlington can do.

Stephen White

When Stephen White met with Mayor Meed Ward to talk to her about a neighbour’s cat that was mauled to death (all there was left was a paw”) she asked White why he didn’t delegate.

White made clear to the Mayor that delegating is one of the most useless things a Burlington citizen can do – “you people don’t know how to listen” he said

Burlington staff spend hour upon hour discussing risk management and risk mitigation. Workshop sessions have been devoted to the subject.

White told the Gazette that the group deliberately did not go to the media. “We didn’t want to make a lot of noise – we just wanted to put some information in front of the people who make the decisions.”

However, said White “when we saw the story in the Gazette yesterday, Julie and I had a talk and decided that we would give the report to the media and be available to answer questions.”

Councillor Sharman has kept on top of the coyote file – but he made no reference that we are aware of that a citizens committee had put forward some strong recommendations.

White did say that Councillor Sharman was very good – he listened, he was attentive as well.” But that appears to be all that was done.

White points out that coyotes are more aggressive in the fall and the spring.

Learning that there were three serious incidents in the past couple of weeks is disturbing – it doesn’t fit the pattern.

The pattern that does fit is city hall’s inability to hear what the public has to say.
Is it arrogance, hubris or an inability to understand that their job is to take care of the public’s welfare?

Should some child be hurt in the weeks ahead, perhaps maimed – imagine the law suit – we are talking tens of millions in a case in which the BOCM report and the article in the Gazette would be major pieces of evidence.

We believe that every member of Council was aware of the report. If the Mayor did not share what she knew or if the City Manager did not share what he knew – one might ask “Why are they there”

Indeed – why are they there ?

 

Related news stories:

The BOCM report with the time line

Report recommendations

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.

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Citizen committee sends recommendations to city on coyote problem - no response. Does a child have to be mauled before any action is taken?

By Staff

August 26th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Gazette published a report yesterday on recommendations a citizens committee gave to Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward and City Manager Tim Commisso.

Within the report were a number of recommendations that we think were important enough to be made public.  They are set out below; they amount to a consultants report that didn’t cost the city a dime.

 

Those recommendations are set out below

1.     Conduct an impact analysis by neighbourhoods to identify various controls that should be implemented to safeguard residents, children and pets from coyote attacks.

 BOCM has identified several “hot spot” neighbourhoods in both Oakville and Burlington which have shown an unusually high number of coyote sightings and incidents. These neighbourhoods are as follows:

  • Samuel Curtis Estates in West Oakville;
  • Wilmot Creek Park in West Oakville/East Burlington;
  • Lakeshore Woods in West Oakville;
  • Sheldon Creek Trail system bordering Samuel Curtis Estates & Lakeshore Woods in West Oakville;
  • Shell Park in West Oakville;
  • South Shel Park & Beach Trails in West Oakville;
  • Burloak Waterfront Park in West Oakville/East Burlington;
  • Mohawk Gardens/St. Patrick’s R.C. School in East Burlington;
  • Bromley Park in East Burlington;
  • Sherwood Forest Park in East Burlington;
  • Pineland Public School in East Burlington;
  • Paletta Estates in Burlington;
  • Nelson Park in Burlington (including Shoreacres Road);
  • John Tuck Public School in

Many of these areas are adjacent to woodlots. The proximity of playgrounds to woodlots which is where coyotes den is particularly problematic. Many young children play in these areas, and the potential for interactions between coyotes and young people is extremely high. In all of West Oakville there are no coyote warning signs whatsoever.

SIGN AT ENTRANCE TO SHELDON CREEK TRAIL, THE SITE OF SEVERAL COYOTE ATTACKS. THIS IS A HEAVILY UTILIZED TRAIL AND CHILDREN’S PLAYGROUND IMMEDIATELY NEXT TO TRAIL ENTRANCE. COYOTES KNOWN TO USE THIS ENTRANCE TO LEAVE THE TRAIL SYSTEM AS THEY MAKE THEIR WAY TO THE LAKE VIA WILMOT ROAD AND STEVENSON ROAD.

2.     Improve both the quantity and quality of signage relating to coyotes, and ensure it offers meaningful information on what to do in the event of sightings.

 There are absolutely no coyote warning signs in Bronte and West Oakville, and the level of coyote signage currently in use in Burlington is vague and offers little in the way of useful information. BOCM believes that much more comprehensive and detailed signage is required that includes the following:

  • Warning signs on the prevalence of coyotes;
  • Encourage park visitors to call 911 in cases of emergencies or attacks;
  • Clear prohibitions aimed at discouraging the feeding wildlife;
  • Specific directions on what to do if a coyote stalks someone;
  • Advice on how to properly haze

Suffice to say that a picture of a coyote may provide a warning but it offers no viable information as to what to do when one is sighted or attacks. Oakville/Burlington need to follow the lead of Mississauga and install billboards, or at the least temporary mobile signs warning people of coyotes in hotspots and what to do.

 

Appendix A includes a cross-section of different pictures taken recently throughout Oakville and Burlington that clearly demonstrates either the lack of proper signage or a lack of relevant information.

3.     Current municipal by-laws should be amended to permit the laying of charges and assessment of fines for persons who feed coyotes.

Current direction from civic officials places an onus upon residents not to feed wildlife. Unfortunately, this advice is not reinforced with appropriate fines that act as a significant deterrent.

It is our understanding that the City of Burlington By-Law 083-2015 enacted September 28th,2015 provides for a fine of $100 for any resident found feeding wildlife. In the case of the Town of Oakville we examined By-Law 2018-006 and were unable to find any fine for feeding wildlife. The fine in the City of Toronto is $365.

BOCM maintains that a $500 fine should be imposed upon any resident or person who is identified feeding wildlife. We believe that a similar fine should be assessed in cases where residents carelessly discard food waste and scraps that become a food source for coyotes, raccoons, etc.

4.     Provide appropriate coyote management education in schools and parks that border creeks.

 We believe that more prescriptive and defined education messages should be used to communicate the potential threat caused by coyotes. We believe that By- Law Officers should be routinely tasked with visiting schools in “hot spot” neighbourhoods to educate teachers, students and administrators about the threats posed by coyotes.

As coyotes are no longer afraid of us hazing must be taught to residents and children. Furthermore, flyers must be sent to every household in high density coyote areas instructing what to do, how to haze, and what to carry as a deterrent.

5.     Change municipal by-laws to permit residents to increase fence heights in order to deter coyotes from entering residents’ properties.

 Our review indicates that in the City of Burlington the maximum fence height is 2 metres. In the case of the Town of Oakville there is a similar provision, although in certain circumstances it can extend to 2.2 metres.

BOCM believes the current height restriction on fences is inadequate to protect residents from coyotes entering the backyards. We have several reports where residents’ pets in fenced backyards have been attacked by coyotes that have scaled wooden and wire fences.

We believe that in cases where properties are adjacent to “hot spot” areas an exception should be made, and that fence heights should be changed to 3 metres. This would provide a strong deterrent to coyotes from entering properties adjacent to parks while providing protection to homeowners whose pets are in enclosed areas.

6.     Permit residents’ whose properties back onto wooded areas to place an awning structure at the top of their fence to prevent coyote jumps.

 As was noted in point #5 above, coyotes have the ability to scale fences up to nine feet high. We believe residents whose properties are adjacent to “hot spot” locations should have the ability to erect awnings at the top of their fences to prevent coyote jumps.

7.     Request more frequent and nightly bylaw officer visits to wooded areas known to have coyote dens.

 BOCM maintains that Animal Control By-Law Officers have a low visibility and profile in the community. We believe that greater efforts should be made to provide nightly patrols in “hot spot” areas where coyotes pose a significant hazard and risk. Increased visibility will reinforce public safety and demonstrate concern for the needs of residents. In particular, better training for animal control and bylaw officers on how to be more empathetic and understanding when dealing with distraught pet owners reporting attacks and killing of their pets would be helpful.

As well, it is important to clearly articulate to residents who to contact in the event of an attack, kill or sighting. Residents are currently confused.

Several schools in Oakville and Burlington have woods that are adjacent to known coyote dens. Below are pictures taken at St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic School on Kenwood Drive, and Pineland Public School on Meadowhill Drive. In these photographs you can clearly see that playgrounds and soccer fields are within close proximity to wooded areas and ravines.

8.     Scientifically measure the size of the coyote population in West Oakville, Bronte and Burlington.

 Much has been made about the fact that the coyote population is threatened by urbanization. While this may be true, at no time has scientific data been adduced to confirm the actual size of the coyote population in this area.

Until the 1800’s coyotes lived only in the southern prairies of North America, and the southern United States to Mexico. By the late 1800’s they expanded west to the Pacific Ocean, and by the 1900s they had advanced to the Maritimes, the eastern seaboard in the United States, and north to Alaska. Their rapid population growth is a testament to their hardiness and adaptability.

BOCM believes that making unsubstantiated claims that a species is at risk without corroborating evidence to substantiate it is both misleading and untrue. The natural predator of coyotes are humans, but if there are controls on hunting and trapping then the species reproduces unimpeded. Empirically, the number of sightings and interactions with coyotes would infer that the coyote population has migrated south towards the Lake Ontario shoreline and along adjacent creeks. This would suggest that a larger number of them are living in a confined area and in closer proximity to residents.

We believe that a scientific count of the coyote population would be helpful in identifying dens and imposing reasonable controls that would restrict the number of negative interactions with residents and their pets. Recently, attempts have been made in the City of Chicago using radio tracking to determine the size of the coyote population. Estimates suggest that the population in that City is somewhere between 2,000 to 4,000 animals.

BOCM believes that similar activities should be undertaken by bylaw officers using radio control technology. Scientific evidence, not assumptions, are needed in order to develop proactive evidence-based solutions to the coyote population.

9.     Institute a program of coyote contraception to limit the size of the coyote population.

 Once an assessment has been made of the size of the coyote population BOCM believes that measures should be instituted to control the size of this species.

It should be noted that in addition to the obvious threat presented by bites and attacks coyotes are also known carriers of parasites including mange and, in some instances, rabies. Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious to both dogs and humans, and there are cases where it can be passed from human to human. Rabies is a deadly virus that spreads from the saliva of infected animals. Treatment involves a series of painful shots that eliminate the infection.

Wildlife contraception is not new. It has been applied successfully in various jurisdictions in the United States to control wildlife including deer:

10. Initiate a program of aggressive hazing to instill fear in coyotes.

 The concept of aversive conditioning has been pioneered by Collen Cassady St. Clair at the University of Alberta who has been working with the Edmonton Coyote Urban Project. This program is based on the concept of teaching wild animals to mistrust humans and fear people in order to lessen interactions that may result in adverse close contacts or attacks. Certain areas of that City, particularly playgrounds, are considered “no-go” zones, and coyotes seen in these areas are aggressively hazed. One approach that is being utilized involves deploying service dogs to find coyotes, then shooting them with chalk balls fired from paintball guns. Residents are also encouraged to haze coyotes by throwing tennis balls at them.

Because coyotes are no longer afraid of people, we need to teach residents aversive conditioning, and providing this information both on the website and in flyers distributed to households.

  1. Institute a program of regular pesticide spraying of rats and other vermin consumed by Coyotes in our trail areas and known den areas.

 If the food sources for coyotes disappears, so will the coyotes. They will move to other more food abundant areas.

This will become increasingly necessary as urban development to the north of Burlington and Oakville proceeds quickly over the next few years. We will need to have plans in place well in advance to control and manage the coyote population. We all know that the coyotes will move south from Milton and Halton Hills to south Oakville and Burlington so they can be close to Lake Ontario where there is an abundance of shoreline and trail system wildlife.

SUMMARY

 BOCM maintains that previous coyote management efforts by civic officials have been both inadequate and a substantive public policy failure. Too much onus has been placed on local residents to manage this problem through appeals to refrain from feeding wildlife. While BOCM supports this measure in principle, it is our contention that this measure alone is inadequate. We strongly contend that the time has come for much more proactive control initiatives.

Related news story:

Report om controlling coyote problem gets the brush off from city hall

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Ukraine needs help - What would you have done?

By Bob Ankrett

August 26th, 2022

BURLINGTON, ON

 

My name is Bob Ankrett and I am the City Liaison and Museum Curator for the Royal Canadian Legion in Burlington Ontario. We have all read about and watched the terrible images of shocked civilians as they run for their lives to hopeful safety with only the items they can carry. Too often we see the blank faces of small children caught in this horror and wonder if they will ever laugh again.

What would you carry at such a time? Photos, clothing, food, a favourite toy for your child or something else?

Part of the soft knitted dolls

Burlington Legion member Deirdre thought the same thing. What could she do half a world away for these children? By the way, she likes to be called Dee as Tony her husband will tell you. They needed something to carry, small, colourful, soft with no sharp edges and easy to clean. There it was, a small colourful doll made of soft yarn about eight inches high. She began to knit. It took almost three days to make one doll. She made sure everyone was different. When it was time to load the plane to the Ukraine, she had knitted just over ninety dolls.

What would you have done?
I had trouble getting the dolls to the Ukraine as most people did not see them as a priority. Olena Beshley who works as a volunteer at the Holy Spirit Ukrainian Church saw the benefit to her people. By the time you read this, the dolls should be in the hands of mothers and children in Lviv Ukraine.

That in part is due to Olena packing and addressing them with other needed items. These items go to hospitals, refugees and soldiers.

The plane was arranged by Stephan Taras Sobolewski. I should mention this is the eighth plane load sent from Hamilton Airport. His company is called Taras Bulba Ukraine.

When I asked how the average person could help, she sent me a list which I will now share with you.

Items can be dropped off at the Holy Spirit Ukrainian Church at 15 St. Olga Street in Hamilton.

Their hours are Saturday 11am to 3pm, Tuesday and Thursday 10am to 4pm. Olena Beshley also gave me their website https://holyspirit.hsucc.ca/p/32help-for-ukraine.

Now her list.
Energy bars, canned tuna or salmon meat, instant oatmeal, dry fruits, dry baby food, new men’s socks 9-13, New men’s T shirts sm-2XL, male female hygiene products, batteries, sleeping bags, Ibuprofen 400mg, allergy medicine, Polysporin, first aid kits, pain relieving medicine (liquid or pills) and alcohol wipes.

This is only a partial list.

Deirdre, likes to be called Dee with a friend

You have heard my story of how a Burlington grandmother heard the call of children half a world away. The question is what can you do ?

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