 By Pepper Parr
April 3rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 Jeremy Freiburger led the search for a cultural identity and the development of a cultural action plan for the city of Burlington. Jeremy Freiburger announced today that he is leaving what started out as a scrappy group of artists just hunting for a home for the creative work we all did, Cobalt Connects has grown to take on an insane mix of projects. From feature-length indigenous films to massive public art installations, municipal and provincial level research and cultural planning, restoring old theatres and leading local festivals, funding music videos and doing weirdo science on people’s brains in response to cultural stimuli – we’ve done some really exciting work and all of it has engaged you, our community, in one way or another.
Cobalt Connects has always been an organization that responded to the community before us with an eye to make positive change and impact. We’ve paid out millions of dollars in artist fees, produced content for our community and others to enjoy, launched facilities that still house hundreds of artists in Hamilton and beyond, and we hope, helped shape the city and province we all live in.
 Jeremy Freiburger, author of a report that provided direction for the city’s cultural plan based on reams of data he had gathered. The city didn’t do all that well implementing its Cultural Action Plan. Freiburger had a contract with the City of Burlington to do all their serious arts based thinking – the city wouldn’t have a serious arts programme without Jeremy. It wasn’t an easy job. He is going to be close to impossible to replace.
Freiburger announced that it was “time for me to change” and said he will be leaving Cobalt Connects as its Executive Director to take on an exciting new opportunity to lead the cultural programming development at Royal Botanical Gardens . I aim to bring the same sense of entrepreneurship, creativity and pushing the edges to this remarkable organization that has so much potential for the arts.
Cobalt Connects will carry on under the leadership of Steve Deeps (he/him) and Steff Bishop (they/them), two amazing people who have helped shape the programming and projects you know and love from Cobalt Connects over the past few years – and a committed Board of Directors. They are amazing, passionate, skilled cultural workers who will now shape the future of the organization and will have my ear to bend and advise forever.
Yes, that could be true – but they aren’t Jeremy Freiburger.
It will be interesting to see what he can achieve at the RBC; he will have the advantage of working with people who understand what is needed and have wisely chosen someone who can do the job.
 By Pepper Parr
April 2, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
First look – early word on the trump tariff announcement.
 Trump with a list of tariffs that will be levied on it – Canada was not included. As usual, Trump rambled, but the consensus, such as it is – isn’t as negative as many expected.
Everyone is, of course, waiting for copies of the Executive orders. Trump signed just two of them, and they didn’t seem to be all that long.
Federal Cabinet to meet within the hour.
More details will be provided later today.
 By Staff
April 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Ontario NDP MPP Dr. Robin Lennox expressed deep concerns about instances of measles outbreaks in Ontario:
 Measles is not just a child disease. “No parent should have to lose their child to a preventable illness like measles. Measles is highly contagious and will disproportionately affect children and immunocompromised individuals in our communities.
“Measles is generally considered rare. Comparing 100 cases in one week to 120 cases the last is like comparing bad to worse—the fact that there are already 100 cases in a single week far exceeds the norm.
“We need strong leadership from the government to address this head on, starting with more investments in our local public health units who have struggled to deliver services due to chronic underfunding.
“We need a public awareness campaign focused on the safety and effectiveness of measles vaccination, including early vaccination for children in areas of outbreak. And we need to address vaccine hesitancy which has surged over recent years by encouraging parents and families to discuss measles vaccination with their trusted healthcare providers.”
 By Pepper Parr
April 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Donald Trump has never heard of a Royal Commission. In Canada Royal Commissions have in the past changed the direction the country has taken and brought about significant changes n our culture. The recommended Royal Commission could very well change our relationship with Americxa and in the process change the United States.
A Brock expert, together with colleagues from other Canadian universities, is calling upon the federal government to convene a royal commission on securing Canada’s future.
 Brock University Associate Professor of Political Science Blayne Haggart. Alongside Jörg Broschek, Érick Duchesne and Patrick Leblond, Brock University Associate Professor of Political Science Blayne Haggart penned an open letter, available in English and French and also published by Policy Options, outlining the argument in favour of a royal commission.
Haggart says that although royal commissions may seem old-fashioned — the last one was the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples, established in 1991 — they have proven effective at mapping out complex issues and informing a path forward.
 Former Prime Minister Prime Minister Lester B.Pearson. 1963 Prime Minister Lester B.Pearson established the Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism. That Commission report, known as the Laurendeau-Dunton Commission, led to the recognition of English and French as Canada’s official languages.
The Glassco Royal Commission on Government Organization, appointed in 1960 to inquire into the organization of the Government of Canada. Chaired by businessman J. Grant Glassco, it issued a five volume report in 1962 and 1963 recommending that government departments be managed on a decentralized basis, that the Treasury Board be reorganized, and that senior management should rotate between departments.
Tha Royal Commission also recommended that the Dominion Bureau of Statistics should become an independent department whose independence should formally be recognized. In January 1965, this led to an Order in Council, which designated the Bureau Department of the federal government.
“Royal commissions not only set out recommendations that the government should act on, but they also set out a way of thinking about things based on voices from across the country,” says Haggart. “A royal commission is a way we can think publicly about these things and build consensus.”
In the letter, the authors outline how drastically the world has changed over the past 20 years and say that Canadians are long overdue for some dedicated thinking and action around security.
According to Haggart, some key concerns are reducing economic dependence on the United States and reducing security vulnerabilities within the military, while also continuing to co-operate with the U.S., when necessary.
He also says the threat to Canadian sovereignty has created a moment for Canada to commit more fully to respecting the sovereignty of Indigenous nations and finding ways to work together.
 “It is vitally important that our current moment of patriotism and nationalism be used positively,” says Haggart. “Our Canadian sovereignty is under attack by the United States, and it’s at risk, which tells us that sovereignty is important, something we should respect, especially in our treaty obligations with First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.”
Haggart points to recent calls to resurrect plans for constructing a national oil pipeline as an example of how reactive thinking and decision-making that fails to involve multiple perspectives or consider new options will not serve the current moment.
“Building a cross-country pipeline is a project that has been on the back burner for the past several decades,” he says. “But it’s not 2009 anymore. We’re in a climate emergency. There are other energy technologies out there. Things have changed, and a pipeline is only one possible way we could address our current problems. Simply dusting off existing projects won’t be enough to get us through.”
He also says the groundswell of popular support for Canadian businesses in the last two months shows that citizens are ready to consider new approaches.
“The ideas people are open to today — of creating a more self-contained, resilient Canadian economy and making the military more independent — have been largely ignored or downplayed for the past 40 years, during which we focused on free trade and integration with the United States,” says Haggart. “There is a visceral sense that we have to change things, but unless we work through exactly what that means in the public eye, the temptation of the status quo will continue.”
Haggart is also concerned that the big picture is not yet playing a major part in the federal election campaign.
“We can’t tax-cut our way out of the problem that we’re in — we need new thinking,” he says. “If we make decisions moment to moment, we could end up sleepwalking in a direction that we don’t want to go. At some point, the government has a responsibility to take the time, do the work and figure out what we want to do as a country.”
The letter:
Open Letter to the Next Prime Minister of Canada: Call for a Royal Commission on Securing Canada’s Future
There is no longer any room for doubt. Donald Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency is a seismic shift for the entire world.
 We are in a time when the flag has come to mean much more to Canadians. However, the liberal international order that Trump threatens and that benefited Canada so greatly for so long has been unraveling for more than two decades.
As a result, Canadian policies and mindsets rooted in the late 20th century are hopelessly outdated. The time for complacency is over. Canada must wake up, adapt and steel itself for the harsh realities of today.
In short, we need a royal commission on securing Canada’s future.
The world in which Canada operates has fundamentally changed in the last 20 years. It began with the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
Afterward, security trumped trade in the U.S. New and enhanced security measures led to a “thicker” border. More rules, regulations, paperwork and scrutiny caused delays and increased costs. Canada-U.S. trade suffered as a result.
This shift further illustrated the risks of Canada’s deep economic dependence on its southern neighbour, but our reaction was to work even more closely with the U.S. to keep the border open to trade.
Since then, the escalating climate crisis, the rapid digital transformation, the global financial crisis, China’s economic and political rise, Russia’s authoritarian resurgence and U.S. fears of hegemonic decline have only intensified America’s focus on national security as a defining feature of its economic relations, pushing other countries to do he same.
The policies and governance mechanisms that underpin Canada’s society, economy and security were not designed for the current illiberal international landscape.
After the Second World War, Canada sought greater integration with the U.S. – a trend that was cemented by the free trade decisions of the 1980s and 1990s. At the same time, Canada also joined the U.S. in promoting an open, rules-based, multilateral global order.
Canadians assumed, with good reason, that the U.S. would continue to respect and support such a system because it benefited from it economically and militarily. Globalization, democratization and unipolarity following the end of the Cold War formed the basis of the “peace dividend.”
Canada thrived within a system we took for granted, failing to question whether its foundations could shift. Even as the world changed around us, complacency set in – as if global upheavals and U.S. policy shifts were distant concerns. This mindset weakened our influence, eroded our global role and stifled productivity growth long before the current crisis exposed the true cost of our inaction.
No previous crisis has so starkly exposed Canada’s existential challenges as the Trump 2.0 shock. Trump’s return has shattered our illusions, forcing Canadians to confront the world as it truly is. From newspaper editorials to the national anthem echoing in hockey arenas, a new awareness has taken hold. Canadians now recognize that our country faces its greatest challenge in decades.
In the past few months, Canadians have shown unwavering resolve in the face of Trump’s unprovoked threats to our independence. We have made it clear that Canada is worth fighting for. Elbows up.
Every crisis calls for two types of action: containing the imminent threat and addressing its root causes.
Canadian governments have handled short-term crises relatively well. Just look at the success of the Team Canada response during Trump 1.0.
But crisis management is not enough. We must rally Canadians in an all-hands-on-deck effort to forge a bold new socioeconomic model – one that doesn’t just help us survive turbulent times but positions us to emerge stronger than ever.
This requires new thinking. To build the future, we must first imagine it.
Canada might actually end up with a pair of cajones.
By Staff
April 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Ontario’s measles outbreak is likely to continue into the summer, the province’s chief medical officer of health said lastFriday, but a stable rate of new cases is a hopeful sign that it will not worsen.
 Dr. Kieran Moore: province’s chief medical officer of health Measles is so contagious that one infected person can spread it to 16 others, but the province is not seeing that growth rate at the moment, Dr. Kieran Moore said in an interview. This week there were just over 100 new cases and 120 new ones the week before that, he said.
“Normally, in an outbreak (it) would go in a very escalating, rapid fashion, but we’re seeing stable numbers week after week, which gives us hope,” he said.
“This virus typically spreads in late winter and through spring, and we’re finding that it’s not accelerating. So that’s probably thanks to the great work in communities to try to limit spread, as well as our messaging with local public health agencies to affected communities and health system preparedness.”
Public Health Ontario says there have been 572 cases since the outbreak began in October — 453 of them confirmed and 119 probable. Of the 42 people requiring hospitalization, two have required intensive care, and 36 have been children — most of them unvaccinated.
He said Friday that the “vast majority” of Ontario’s cases are among people in those communities, and local public health units are focusing on outreach to try to contain the spread. Unvaccinated infants, kids and teenagers in the Southwestern and Grand Erie public health units are most affected.
The health units) have always had a strong relationship with these communities, and have continued the communication,” Moore said, including communications in Low German, spoken by some Mennonites.
“They have advertised on some of the Low German radios. They’ve translated their documents into Low German to ensure that they can be understood at community level…We call it the ground game. The ground game outbreak is where all the work has to happen and all the communication and collaboration.”
The Ontario Liberals have urged Moore and Premier Doug Ford to more publicly deliver public health messaging on measles.
“The premier and his chief medical officer of health need to tell the people of Ontario their plan to fight measles,” public health critic Adil Shamji wrote in a statement.
 Extremely contagious. “The government of the day should not have to be told to take action. It should be leaping into action. Anything less will put thousands of lives at risk.”
Moore said he is not planning a press conference. Local medical officers of health have been the public lead on the issue, and some medical experts have been doing television interviews about measles, he said.
“We know our partners at Public Health Ontario are experts that are helping us with this outbreak, (and) have had good communication,” he said.
“We monitor the effectiveness of our communication, and we’re happy with how this is being covered, how the press has really raised the awareness of this, both at a national level and within Ontario.”
There have been measles cases outside the most-affected health units, but many are linked to global travel and have not spread locally, Moore said.
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in the world. The World Health Organization says the virus can remain active in the air or on infected surfaces for up to two hours.
It usually begins with a fever, cough, runny nose and red watery eyes, followed by a red blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads to the body and limbs. The virus can lead to pneumonia, inflammation of the brain and death.
The number of cases reported in Ontario over the last week is more than the number of cases recorded over the course of a decade between 2013 and 2023.
ByPepper Parr
April 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
As of today, the divisive “carbon tax” was officially cancelled. Canadians will save an average of 18 cents/litre at the pumps.
 Will Trump wear that smirk when he signs the Executive Order that will set out what his tariff plan is going to set out? By the end of the day, we will know what Trump’s tariffs are going to do to us – we might not be able to afford to buy a car that we can put that gas into.
There are going to be cars manufactured in Canada on the market.
Used car prices are expected to rise.
 By Staff
April 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
It’s a huge week for President Donald Trump’s tariff agenda — and the global economy. Trump has set a Wednesday deadline for reciprocal tariffs, while the first auto imports tariffs are slated to take effect the following day.
When it comes to their scope, uncertainty reigns: Trump had suggested the tariffs would have some exemptions, but told reporters Sunday the levies would hit “all countries.”
The Washington Post also reported that he has revived his idea of a universal tariff. A maximally aggressive approach would set Trump on a collision course with US allies, businesses, and congressional Republicans. Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., said the administration needs to “make the case” to tariff skeptics.
“We’ve got businesses that will be harmed by this but are also supportive of what the president is trying to do,” Johnson said. “They are willing to give the president the benefit of the doubt.”
What do the European countries think?
By Staff
April 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Beginning Saturday, April 5, the following service updates will be implemented to enhance connectivity across the region:
Lakeshore West:
For exact trip departure and arrival times, customers are encouraged to check schedules in advance on the GO Transit website and plan their trip ahead of time.
In addition, GO Explore bus service returns with new routes and locations serving attractions across the region:
Toronto Premium Outlets – Route 25K: This new service will connect Toronto Premium Outlets directly to the TTC subway at Kipling station. It will also connect customers to Square One, Dixie Transitway, Renforth Transitway, and Kipling GO. Service will run on weekends from April 5 to Aug. 24.
 The units that carry the bikes are clearly marked. Canada’s Wonderland – Routes 47 and 52: These two seasonal routes will serve Canada’s Wonderland on weekends from May 10 to Aug. 24.
Toronto Zoo – Route 96: This seasonal route will serve the Toronto Zoo on weekends from April 5 to Aug. 24.
Metrolinx is also adjusting several GO Bus routes to support upcoming construction projects for GO Expansion that will bring faster, more frequent service across the network. Customers are encouraged to check the GO Transit website for more information.
Customers can also sign up for On the GO Alerts to receive real time updates about trip schedule updates, delays or disruptions.
 By Ray Rivers
April 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Some pundits are calling it a crisis, and some a civil war – but nobody is calling it winning – as the Tories continue their decline in public support. In fact their fall from grace is happening way faster than the two years it took for Mr. Poilievre’s meteoric rise in the polls.
 Poilievre can talk a good story. Current Tory leader, Pierre Poilievre, is an articulate and convincing attack dog who, much like Donald Trump, thrives on character assassination and misinformation. His success at trashing Trudeau and grinding down his public approval rating seemed like the path to a Tory victory. But then along came the tariff crisis and a new Liberal leader. And the wheels began to fall off the Tory tour bus.
As the Conservative Party heads to the polls, it does so with a couple of handicaps. For one thing its leader has no resume, certainly nothing that compares to that of Mark Carney, his Liberal opponent. Poilievre can talk a good story but Carney has actually done it – an Oxford polished economist who had governed both the Canadian and British central banks as those economies each went through economic crises.
Carney’s track record includes being CEO of the extensive Canadian investment company Brookfield and heading up a UN environmental program. He has built and maintained close professional relations with most European heads of government, especially those of France and Britain. Carney also has had previous interactions with US president Trump, and based on the two leader’s recent phone contact appears to have gained Trump’s respect as well.
Then there is the matter of Poilievre’s style, which Canadians and many Tory insiders would like him to change. But it seems the only game he knows is to keep calling this country weak and broken, in the hope that voters will see him as its saviour. But this persistent negativity and personal name calling, which may have helped turn Canadians against the former Liberal leader, is a poor substitute for leadership.
 Alberta Premier Danielle Smith thinks she ought to use Canada’s current crisis to push for more provincial sovereignty. When it comes to the matter of national unity he also suffers from the intrusion of Alberta’s separatist premier on his behalf. Her shameless cozying up to the very people, the MAGA crowd down south, who are scaring Canadians out of their comfort zones at the moment, is disquieting. Danielle Smith is out of her lane and out of control.
Smith had initially asked Trump to stall, not end, the tariffs until after the election because she felt that would restore Tory political fortunes. And it is telling that she believes that Poilievre is of like mind to the erratic US president. Does that imply that she approves of Trump’s erratic approach to government, including his breaking of the USMCA, which he once touted as the best deal ever?
Further, she has chosen a great time to reach out to Quebec’s premier inviting him to help craft a plan to tear Canada apart. She thinks they ought to use Canada’s current crisis to push for more provincial sovereignty. It’s exactly that kind of parochialism which has historically created all those inter-provincial trade barriers all our politicians now claim they want to eliminate.
So, if there is a civil war brewing among Tory loyalists, they have only themselves to blame for their choice of leader. Being prime minister is not just another job, but it is a job. And like any job the best person is the one who is best qualified. And that, more than anything else, accounts for why the Tory steamroller appears to have stopped rolling along.
 Ray Rivers, a Gazette Contributing Editor, writes regularly applying his more than 25 years as a federal bureaucrat to his thinking. Rivers was once a candidate for provincial office in Burlington. He was the founder of the Burlington citizen committee on sustainability at a time when climate warming was a hotly debated subject. Ray has a post graduate degree in economics that he earned at the University of Ottawa. Tweet @rayzrivers
Background links:
Civil War – Smith – More Smith – Poilievre – Even More Smith – Smith and Sovereignty –
 By Juliette Diamond
April 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 When Ontario legalized iGaming in April 2022, there was a real sense of excitement and curiosity about what it would bring. Everyone expected big things, such as a boost in revenue and new, innovative gaming experiences. Now, three years on, the market has evolved in ways that many didn’t see coming, with new players, fresh regulations, and plenty of surprises along the way.
Market Growth and Milestones
Since legalization, Ontario’s iGaming market has experienced impressive growth in both revenue and player participation. In the first few months alone, operators quickly saw an influx of new players eager to try their luck in a regulated, secure environment. As the market matured, this initial excitement turned into steady growth, with revenues reaching billions annually and showing no signs of slowing down. Players are no longer just dipping their toes; they’re diving in, especially with any online casino in Ontario now available to them.
Along with the market’s growth, there has been a shift in how games are designed and offered. Developers have focused heavily on creating immersive and engaging experiences that cater to the preferences of Ontario players. Live dealer games have become a popular feature, alongside slots that incorporate advanced graphics and interactive elements. Innovation has been at the forefront, with providers continually pushing boundaries to enhance the gaming experience.
 Providers are also paying more attention to mobile optimization, ensuring that players can enjoy their favourite games on the go. The journey from 2022 to now has been nothing short of a success story for Ontario’s iGaming industry.
Player Experience
The player experience in Ontario’s iGaming market has come a long way since legalization. One of the biggest improvements is the variety of games available. Players now have access to an impressive selection of titles, ranging from classic casino games like blackjack and roulette to innovative new slots and live dealer experiences. The sheer variety means there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started.
Safety and security have also been a top priority, with platforms continuously improving to ensure a secure and transparent experience. With regulated operators, players can rest assured knowing that their personal and financial information is well protected. This trust is essential in building a loyal player base, and Ontario’s regulatory framework has played a big role in ensuring this.
Responsible gaming initiatives have also become integral to the landscape. Operators have implemented tools and features like self-exclusion, deposit limits, and reality checks to help players stay in control. These measures not only protect players but also contribute to a safer overall gaming environment, reinforcing the province’s commitment to responsible gambling.
Impact on Traditional Gaming
Brick-and-mortar casinos in Ontario have had to adapt quickly to the rise of online gaming, and many have embraced the shift rather than resisted it. Traditional casinos are now enhancing their digital presence by partnering with online operators to offer a seamless transition between in-person and virtual experiences. These collaborations allow players to enjoy the same games online as they would in a physical casino, often with special promotions and loyalty programs that bridge the gap. This fusion of traditional and online gaming has not only helped brick-and-mortar casinos stay relevant but also created a more diverse and flexible gaming landscape for players.
Regulatory Adjustments
Since legalization, Ontario’s iGaming regulations have been fine-tuned to keep pace with the market’s rapid growth. One of the key changes has been the tightening of rules around advertising and marketing, with a focus on ensuring that promotions are transparent and fair. This adjustment is designed to protect consumers from misleading offers and ensure that operators operate with integrity.
 Ontario’s regulatory body, is the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). Ontario’s regulatory body, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), has also introduced stricter guidelines around responsible gambling practices. The province has made it clear that player protection is a top priority, ensuring that all online gaming platforms promote safe and responsible play. These regulations not only foster a fair environment but also help to build trust, ensuring players can enjoy their gaming experience without worry.
What’s Next for Ontario’s iGaming Market?
Looking ahead, Ontario’s iGaming market is set to embrace a range of emerging technologies that could redefine the player experience. Artificial intelligence (AI) will likely play a significant role, particularly in personalizing gameplay and improving customer service. AI could power smarter recommendations, tailor game offerings to individual preferences, and even help manage responsible gambling by tracking player behaviours. This level of customization and insight could make the gaming experience feel more personal and engaging than ever before.
Additionally, the potential for virtual reality (VR) to create immersive casino experiences is on the horizon. VR could offer players the chance to step into a virtual casino environment, interacting with real dealers and other players in a completely new way. As these technologies continue to evolve, the future of Ontario’s iGaming market looks full of exciting possibilities.
Ontario’s iGaming Market Is Stronger Than Ever
 Players have endless options for entertainment. In just three years, Ontario’s iGaming market has grown from a bold new venture to a thriving, dynamic industry. What started with excitement and anticipation has transformed into a well-regulated space where players have endless options for entertainment. With robust player protections, diverse gaming experiences, and continuous technological advancements, the market has matured in ways that benefit both operators and players alike.
As Ontario continues to lead the iGaming landscape, the future looks even brighter. Whether through cutting-edge innovations or stronger community engagement, the province has set a solid foundation for sustainable growth. For players, that means more choices, better experiences, and a gaming environment they can trust.
 By Tom Parkin
April 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Projections put Carney’s Liberals at 203 seats, 87 ahead of Poilievre — and free of a strong NDP opposition.
In normal times, socialists voting for capitalist archetype Mark Carney would be an absurd idea, but that’s exactly what some left-wing voters are contemplating for Canada’s April 28 election.
The shift has drained support for Jagmeet Singh’s social democratic NDP despite announcements highlighting Carney’s problematic corporate behaviour and his current conservative leanings.
 While Carney was board chair of investment bank Brookfield Asset Management the company persued “opportunistic real estate [purchases] in order to take advantage of the stress in the market,” and helped Canadian investors dodge taxes using Caribbean tax haven accounts directly overseen by Carney.
On becoming Liberal leader, Carney adopted several core Conservative positions including cancelling a planned tax inclusion increase on those making capital gains over $250,000 a year, ending the consumer carbon tax, stalling pharmacare, and unspecified cuts to “slay” the deficit, positions left-wing Canadians would usually recoil from.
But for many left-wing voters, Carney is the lesser evil to Pierre Poilievre, who rode the anti-vaxx movement to a Conservative leadership win then tried to ride Trump’s tailwinds to the prime minister’s office.
Even as Trump threatened to annex Canada, Poilievre’s biggest January media push was a long sit-down with Jordan Peterson, the Trump supporting identitarian who recently moved to MAGA-land to protest Canada.
The event earned the endorsement of Elon Musk, also widely despised by left-wing Canadians.
The left-wing lesser-evil movement has driven down NDP support. But with a massive Carney majority the new threat, in the next four weeks Singh may yet be able to move left-wing voters back to the NDP by offering his party as a hedge against Carney’s conservative leanings.
The CBC’s poll tracker currently shows Poilievre’s Conservatives 5.8 points behind Carney’s Liberals. But what counts are seats, and the Conservatives’ bad vote inefficiency compounds their losses.
Conservative candidates pile-up big wins in southern Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba ridings. But winning a seat with 45 per cent support or 75 per cent is still just winning one seat.
In both 2019 and 2021, the Conservatives received about 200,000 more votes than the Liberals but both times won about 35 fewer seats.
Current projections show the Liberals beating Poilievre by 87 seats, a bigger gap that 2021, 2019 or 2015.
The Liberals are currently projected to win 203 seats and the Conservatives 116, down three seats from Erin O’Toole’s 2021 result.
The red flags Singh has been planting about Brookfield and Carney’s conservative leanings may yet pay off as the reality of a big Carney majority sinks in.
In a dynamic where the threat is now a big Liberal majority, calls by Singh to elect more NDP MPs as a hedge against Carney’s conservatism should resonate with traditional NDP voters.
That logic of the situation suggests Singh needs to start two new pushes.
First, and in the context of Trump annexation threats, Singh can make the case NDP values are a fundamental to Canada’s different history and identity, pointing to icons including dental care, childcare and pharmacare, but also the grandparents of them all, universal healthcare and a real labour movement.
Second, Singh can talk about what Liberals do when there’s no strong NDP fighting for those Canadian values.
In late 1999 and winter 2000, amid left-wing fears of the Canadian Reform Conservative Alliance, many left-wing voters also made a lesser-eviL move, dropping NDP support to the 10 per cent range while Liberal support soared, sometimes touching above 50 per cent.
The result was that in late February, 2000, Liberals used their strength amid NDP weakness to table a budget with $58 billion in tax cuts. They lowered the capital gains inclusion rate from 75 to 50 per cent, cut the corporate taxes rate from 28 per cent to 21 per cent, eliminated the surtax on high personal incomes, and cut tax rates for top incomes.
And they let the Canada Health and Social Transfers fall behind combined inflation and population growth even though they had cut the CHST 34 per cent between 1993 to 1996 and frozen it from 1997 and 1998.
Right wing things. Done with left-wing votes.
In April 2025, with Poilievre pushed back, the lesser evil socialists who moved to the right may shift back on the idea there is the value in casting an NDP vote, especially where that vote sends an NDP fighter to Ottawa to defend icons of Canadian identity from Carney. Singh has four weeks to make that case to them.
Discussion about this post
 By Staff
April 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
A total of five FIRST robotics teams from the Halton District School Board (HDSB) will compete at the FIRST Ontario Provincial Championship in Mississauga April 2-5.
Schools participating include Garth Webb SS (Team 5409), Georgetown District HS (Team 4976), Aldershot School (Team 9263), Oakville Trafalgar HS (Team 1334) and Burlington Central HS (Team 2386). The HDSB held the FIRST kick off in January at Burlington Central HS with more than 250 people in attendance.
 HDSB students setting up their robotic device that was designed to shoot a basketball into a net. Each HDSB team qualified for the provincial competition based on their results from taking part in regional competitions, including those held at McMaster University, Nipissing University, University of Waterloo, Durham College and in Newmarket. This provincial competition is a qualifier for the World FIRST Robotic Championship to be held later in April.
“Many thanks are extended to all of the teachers, coaches, mentors, volunteers and sponsors that provide students with this extremely valuable opportunity that supports the development of critical STEM and technological skills such as manufacturing, electronics, programming, CAD/CAM, pneumatics, design, media and transferable skills such as teamwork, problem solving and communication,” says Veronica Kleinsmith, Specialist High Skills Major Lead at the Halton District School Board. It has truly been an amazing and enriching experience for our students.”
“The FIRST Robotics Competition provides students with an incredible opportunity to showcase their skills in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM),” says Curtis Ennis, Director of Education for the HDSB.
“By engaging in these challenges, students build confidence, problem-solving skills and resilience while gaining practical experience. These competitions play an important role in fulfilling our commitment, as outlined in the HDSB’s 2024-2028 Multi-Year Strategic Plan, to Learning, Engagement and Achievement by connecting classroom learning to real-world scenarios. As students apply their knowledge to practical challenges, they develop essential skills and explore meaningful career opportunities in skilled trades and technology. I extend my sincerest congratulations to our HDSB teams on your remarkable achievements!”
 The Halton District School Board hosted a kickoff event ahead of the “Inspiration and Recognition in Science and Technology” or “FIRST” robotics competition season. Established in 2001, FIRST Robotics inspires young people to be leaders and innovators in science and technology by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills to inspire innovation and foster self-confidence, communication and leadership.
Achievements at the regional competitions included:
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- Aldershot School (Team 9263) received its first blue banner. The team was part of the alliance that scored a new world record for points in a single match in the 2025 Reefscape Competition.
- Burlington Central HS (Team 2386) won the Spirit Award at the McMaster University Competition.
- Georgetown District HS (Team 4976) won the Humber District Event, their third 1st place win as a team.
- Garth Webb SS (Team 5409) placed first overall at the Nipissing University regional competition, winning their second gold medal of the season and earning a place in the top twelve teams in the world. They also received the Excellence in Engineering Award.
- Oakville Trafalgar HS (Team 1334) competed at McMaster University, earning a spot in the third place alliance and winning the Team Sustainability award for environmental impact and continuity.
By Staff
April 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Liberals hold massive lead among those Comfortable & Thriving on Anhus Reid Economic Stress Index
Economic turmoil between Canada and the United States has taken the headlines this year, perhaps obscuring several positive domestic trends. Falling rents, a grocery cost reprieve, and stable inflation have some Canadians feeling better about their economic stress, and it appears to the benefit of the federal Liberals.
New data from the non-profit Angus Reid Institute finds a two-point decrease this quarter in the number of Canadians “Struggling” on the Economic Stress Index, which measures self-professed ability to pay for housing, groceries, and debt, as well as optimism about the coming year and an assessment of past 12 months. This decrease adds to a five-point drop between September and December, meaning approximately one-quarter fewer of those who were Struggling at the beginning of fall say the same now at the beginning of spring (33% down to 25%).
 As pundits and observers seek to understand campaign dynamics and the interplay of voters between the Conservative and Liberal Party, consider that the CPC continue to by far the top choice for the Struggling, with more than half of that group (56%) saying they would vote for Pierre Poilievre’s party. This is close to identical to the CPC’s support among the Struggling over the past year. The challenge for Poilievre and co. is that this group has shrunk significantly, and Liberal support has risen from 12 to 26 per cent within it.
The story is equally challenging within other groups across the Economic Stress Index.
 
Among the Uncomfortable, the Liberals and Conservatives are now tied after the CPC led by 29 points in December. The Liberals lead by 15 points among the Comfortable and 30 within the Thriving. The Conservatives led both groups at the end of 2024.
By Jim Portside
April 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 The Sunshine List was created by the Mike Harris government in 2006. Why are there so many teachers on the 2024 Sunshine List?
The Sunshine List was first released in 1996. The list shows us the names of Ontario public sector employees earning $100,000 or more. The $100,000 threshold has not changed since 1996. Using the Bank of Canada’s inflation calculator, $100,000 in 1996 is the equivalent of $185,017 in today’s dollars.
The 2023 list contains the names of 300,681 people.
The 2024 list contains the names of 377,667 people.
In 2019 the Ford government passed Bill 124 – “Protecting a Sustainable Public Sector for Future Generations Act”. The bill capped salary increases for employees of hospitals, universities, schools, long-term care homes, and non-profit organizations receiving government funding.
The public sector employees took the government to court and won. In February 2024, the Ontario government repealed Bill 124. Collective Bargaining Agreements often contain a “reopener” clause that allows for renegotiation of the agreement’s terms if certain conditions are met.
 Teachers demonstrating against government cuts in education. The conditions were met and the retroactive salary increases were handed out, causing a significant one-time salary boost for many of the employees affected by Bill 124. The scale of this is so massive that the hit to the projected 2024-2025 provincial budget deficit is around $6 billion. If Bill 124 had remained in effect the province’s deficit would have been $600 million.
The Sunshine List groups people by sector. Working with just the “School Boards” sector we can see the following:
In 2023 School Boards employed 80,282 people earning $100,000 or more, 60,516 of those people have the word “Teacher” in their job title.
In 2024 School Boards employed 118,050 people earning $100,000 or more, 92,472 of those people have the word “Teacher” in their job title. That’s a whopping 52.8% increase.
We should see things return to normal on the 2025 Sunshine List.
By Staff
April 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Ontario government is increasing the minimum wage from $17.20 to $17.60 an hour effective October 1, 2025, to support workers and businesses. This annualized wage increase is based on the Ontario Consumer Price Index (CPI) of 2.4 per cent and will bring Ontario’s minimum wage to the second highest provincial rate in Canada.
 His income will go up $835.00 a year starting October 1st. “Our government will continue to have the backs of Ontario workers, investing in skills training and development and helping ensure that work pays,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “Ontario’s minimum wage remains one of the highest in the country. Now more than ever, workers and businesses need fair, balanced and predictable wages.”
A worker making the general minimum wage and working 40 hours per week will see an annual pay increase of up to $835.00 as a result of these changes. Under the Employment Standards Act, Ontario’s minimum wage increases annually based on the Ontario CPI, a measure of inflation that represents changes in prices experienced by Ontario consumers.
This increase is just one of the ways the government is supporting Ontario workers and helping make Ontario the best place to work, live and raise a family.
Quick Facts
- About 36 per cent of workers at or below the wage of $17.60 per hour are in retail trade and 24 per cent are in accommodation and food services.
- Over the past seven years, Ontario’s minimum wage has increased from $14 per hour in 2018 to $17.60 later this year.
By Staff
April 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 Conservation Halton advises that Environment Canada and the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) Surface Water Monitoring Centre (SWMC) are forecasting a large Colorado Low Pressure system that will bring between 30-50mm of rainfall to the region, with possibly higher amounts in embedded Thunderstorms. Rain is expected to start mid-day Wednesday and continue until Thursday morning.
 Widespread flooding is not anticipated, however, fast flowing water and flooding of low-lying areas, natural floodplains, and areas with poor drainage may be expected.
Conservation Halton is asking all residents and children to keep a safe distance from all watercourses and structures such as bridges, culverts, and dams. Elevated water levels, fast flowing water, and cold water temperatures, combined with slippery conditions along stream banks continue to make these locations extremely dangerous. Please alert children in your care of these imminent dangers.
Conservation Halton will continue to monitor stream and weather conditions and will issue an update to this Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook message as conditions warrant.
This Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook will be in effect through Friday April 4, 2025.
 By Helena Litvinova
April 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Canada has always had a vibrant casino scene. Whether it’s the glitzy gaming halls of Ontario or the sleek online platforms catering to players from coast to coast, Canadian gamblers have no shortage of choices. From spinning reels to strategic card games, there’s something for every kind of player. Here’s a closer look at the top 10 casino games that have captured the hearts (and wagers) of Canadians. Well to make your experience even better, find the best online casino overviews for Canada and play only in the best casino. But what games to play? Let’s find out!
1. Slot Machines: The Reels That Keep on Spinning
 Instant gameplay with minimal rules. Canadian casinos count slot machines as their dominating force. They serve as the casino’s most popular attractions because of how simple they are and their entertainment functions. Themed slots feature live-action graphics together with bonus features that deliver fast gameplay that can lead players to significant cash wins.
Why Canadians Love Slots:
- Instant gameplay with minimal rules
- Massive progressive jackpots
- Wide range of themes: fantasy, adventure, history, and more
Players can find many more options in online slots because of mobile compatibility and bonus offers that were previously unavailable. Casino players in Canada put Mega Moolah, Book of Dead, and Sweet Bonanza at the top of their game rankings.
2. Blackjack: The King of Card Games
Blackjack has maintained its place as a permanent fixture in Canadian casino gaming areas since the beginning of the decades. This game is ideal for thinkers who want mental stimulation because it combines strategic decisions with good fortune and possesses a minimal advantage for the casino.
Several Leading Versions of Blackjack Popular in Canadian Casinos:
- Classic Blackjack
- European Blackjack
- Atlantic City Blackjack
Blackjack remains competitive since players can join forces at the tables. The feeling of unspoken connection connects every participant at their table while they play their games in any format.
3. Roulette: A Spin for Every Style
 There are three main types of roulette played in Canada: Playing roulette delivers an unrivaled thrill to players. Take your bets before observing the ball as it rotates while you experience an anxious waiting period. Players throughout Canada have long been attracted to the classic game that shows no signs of fading in popularity.
There are three main types of roulette played in Canada:
- European Roulette: Single zero, better odds
- American Roulette: Double zero, higher house edge
- French Roulette creates bonus regulations that benefit the betting customers.
Roulette stands out because of its elegance and tendency to produce unique outcomes that remain timeless favorites for Canadian gamblers.
4. Poker: Where Skill Meets the Stakes
Canadian gambling culture features a distinctive position for the game of poker. The game exceeds its basic aspects because it combines the development of awareness with deliberate waiting and the strength to stay cool. The popularity of poker within Canada keeps growing because internationally recognized star Daniel Negreanu comes from Canada.
Popular poker games include:
- Texas Hold’em
- Omaha Hi-Lo
- 7-Card Stud
The popularity of poker has increased substantially because online poker rooms alongside televised tournaments have become popular features among Canadian gamblers. Most Canadians spend their practice time at home against potential casino opponents.
5. Baccarat: High-Class Simplicity
 The game captures players because they merely need to wager on Player or Banker or a Tie outcome. Although previously known as a game for high-stakes players baccarat now attracts players of all backgrounds in Canada. The game captures players because they merely need to wager on Player or Banker or a Tie outcome.
This game gained traction through:
- Online live dealer tables
- Favorable odds
- Minimal decision-making
Both casinos that operate from physical locations and digital casinos now feature Baccarat games as part of their main offerings.
6. Craps: The Social Dice Game
Craps establishes itself as one of the most active games available in Canadian casino establishments. Despite possible complexity in the gameplay rules players constantly enjoy the upbeat casino setting that leads to various team victory opportunities.
Top reasons players enjoy craps:
- Lively table atmosphere
- Wide variety of bets
- Strong community engagement
Players who learn basic craps betting rules consider the game to be their preferred choice for thrilling casino experiences.
7. Video Poker: A Solo Strategy Game
 People find appeal in this game’s quick cadence together with superior betting probabilities. The combination of video poker includes poker rules and slot machine mechanics. People find appeal in this game’s quick cadence together with superior betting probabilities relative to some slot machine varieties.
Common versions include:
- Jacks or Better
- Deuces Wild
- Joker Poker
Most Canadian players value playing this game for its positive combination of single-player focus and thoughtful gameplay especially when they prefer digital play.
8. Keno: A Game of Pure Luck
Players searching for leisurely gameplay should try keno since it matches their preferences. Waiting patiently through each draw lets you verify whether your luck brings success. This lottery-style game allows players to experience a pleasant shift from their usual gambling activities.
Keno appeals to:
- Casual players
- Lottery enthusiasts
- Fans of low-stakes gambling
You can play keno both inside casino lounges and their corresponding online game lobbies.
9. Sic Bo: The Hidden Gem
Canadian players are discovering Sic Bo through its development as an ancient Chinese dice game in the country. Sic Bo provides casino players with an exclusive betting experience while introducing a little bit of mystery from around the world.
Why it’s worth trying:
- Simple rules
- Multiple betting options
- Unique cultural feel
Players can find Sic Bo appearing more frequently in live dealer platforms of online casinos.
 Available in modern versions and new interfaces bingo continues to find success in online gaming platforms. 10. Bingo: Classic Fun with a Twist
Bingo exists as a notable gambling option in Canada even though it does not fit casual definitions of casino entertainment. Available in modern versions and new interfaces bingo continues to find success in online gaming platforms.
What players love about bingo:
- Social interaction
- Themed rooms and progressive jackpots
- Fast-paced, low-pressure gameplay
The traditional bingo experience evolved into digital entertainment which brings pleasure to senior players.
Conclusion
Canadian casino players enjoy various casino games which include reel spinners and traditional card competitions. An incredible mix of simple player access to strategic elements and pure entertainment enjoyment assures that players will always find enjoyable games. The top 10 favorite online games will continue to dominate Canada’s gaming culture as online gaming further develops.
By Pepper Parr
April 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The next chapter in pet healthcare has arrived. To be located at 561 Brant Street in Burlington, they are set to open their doors on April 11th.
Novel, an interesting name for a veterinary medicine and surgical services, is rooted in improving access to veterinary care for all.
 Emma and Brendon are from the Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph, the number one veterinary school in Canada. Local owners and co-founders Brendon Laing and Emma Harris have dedicated their entire careers to veterinary medicine. Brendon is a veterinarian and an active contributor to the industry, having just wrapped up his presidency with the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association. Emma is a PhD Candidate whose research is dedicated to understanding the socioeconomic and demographic influences on access to veterinary care.
Both Emma and Brendon are from the Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph, the number one veterinary school in Canada.
Novel offers a no-exam-fee model. “The walk-in fee creates a ‘wait-and-see’ approach to healthcare. If a medical issue exists, I want to help as soon as I can” says Brendon. “But as a pet owner, if I know I’m going to incur a fee of over $100 right away, I hesitate; I pause.
So we got rid of the exam fee in the name of eliminating barriers to care”, says Emma. Members sign up to Novel and pay $20/month for a single pet or $24/month for multiple pets and receive unlimited examinations, access to a 24/7 support line, and between 10-40% off all medications, products (including food), services and diagnostics.
Novel is priced, on average, up to 40% less expensive than traditional clinics, according to a self-funded research study.
As a second-generation veterinarian, Brendon has witnessed first-hand how the industry has evolved: “The veterinary industry has reached a tipping point. We need to completely reconsider how we deliver quality care at a more affordable price point, and that’s exactly what we’ve done with Novel”.
Novel is hosting an opening celebration on April 11th from 5-8pm at 561 Brant Street. Meet the team, tour the hospital and enjoy food, drinks and professional pet photography.
By Tom Parkin
April 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Flight sales collapse as Canadians boycott travel to Trump’s country and hear stories of American officials harassing and detaining Canadians.
Annexation threats from U.S. President Donald Trump and stories of detainment by American police and border officers are causing a collapse in airline flight bookings between Canada and the United States, according to travel data company OAG, a UK-based airline travel data aggregator.
OAG reports airline ticket purchases made by mid-March 2025 for flights between Canadian and U.S. airports in April 2025 are down almost 76 per cent from the number made by mid-March 2024 for April 2024.
By mid-March 2024 there were 1,218,570 airline seats booked for travel between Canadian and U.S. locations in April 2024.
As of mid-March 2025, only 295,982 seats are booked for Canada-U.S. travel this April, according to OAG.
Bookings by mid-March this year for travel in May and the summer months are also over 70 per cent down from levels in mid-March 2024.
Canadian airlines cutting U.S. flights, redeploying planes to Europe
But bigger changes to flight schedules could still be coming if ticket sales for flights in the summer, traditionally the busiest time for travel between Canada and the United States, continue at such low levels.
The downturn in travel between Canada and the U.S. may also be ending the Amtrack rail service between Seattle and Vancouver. The company last week suddenly cancelled the service citing maintenance problems with the aging trainsets plying in the route.
But while previous Amtrack press releases had announced new equipment was coming to the route starting in 2026, last weeks’ notice of service suspension made no mention of a return to service next year with new equipment.
 By Pepper Parr
March 31st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
In a campaign that has been remarkable for its volatility and dynamism, a new element enters the race: relative stability.
New data from the non-profit Angus Reid Institute finds voter intention unchanged over the last week, with the Liberal Party holding an eight-point lead over the Conservatives, while the fortunes of the NDP and Bloc remain similarly unchanged.
Asked how they intend to vote, 46 per cent of Canadian voters say they will support the Liberals, compared to 38 per cent for the Conservative Party. Support for the NDP (7%) and Bloc Québécois (7%) continues to linger in single digits.
Liberal leader and Prime Minister Mark Carney continues to maintain an advantage among most demographic groups. Men aged 35- to 54-years-old are the only age-gender segment to be more likely to vote Conservative. The Liberals otherwise lead between four points (men older than 55) and 27 points (women older than 55).
Further, Carney’s positive net favourability among both men (+18) and women (+26) remains stable. His rivals – Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and NDP leader Jagmeet Singh – struggle among one gender or the other. For Poilievre, this represents an ongoing inability to build positive impressions among women – three-in-five (61%) who say they view him unfavourably. For Singh, same problem, only among men, who by a two-to-one margin view him more negatively than positively.
The resurgence of the Liberals fueled by Carney’s election to leader is partially driven by women voters returning to the party after abandoning it at the end of 2024, but also by picking up vote intention from men. In March 2021, support for the Liberals among men ranged from 27 per cent among 18- to 34-year-olds, to 30 per cent among men aged 35 to 54. The Carney Liberals currently are receiving support from 45 per cent of 18- to 34-year-old men and 46 per cent of those older than 54.
The battle at this point is between Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre and Liberal Prime Minister Mark Carney Carney. The focus is on the gender differences in the data Angus Reid has collected.
NDP leader Jagmeet Singh stands a chance of losing his British Columbia seat.
Hovering over all this is the Trump tariff threat – with a major announcement expected on Wednesday.
Liberal leader and Prime Minister Mark Carney had his first call with U.S. President Donald Trump, who struck a much more positive tone than seen in recent weeks and described the conversation as “very productive”. Trump also appeared to be more respectful of Carney, considering Trump called Carney by his official title and not governor, as he did with predecessor Justin Trudeau. Canada’s response to the U.S., and the tact taken by the leader of its future federal government, remains a key issue for the campaign.
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By Pepper Parr
