CONNECTION ERROR - (Merged Threads )

I tried logging into game to get my midday energy and store refreshes but I keep getting the dreaded "Checking for Updates" hang up which leads to the Connection Error message. I have rebooted all of my devices, my router and even uninstalled and reinstalled the app - all without success. I looked on the forums for updates on issues with servers but could not find anything recent (even though I know there have been EA server issues since the last shown post) - What gives EA? Are you going to compensate us for something that is obviously a problem on your end?