Safeguarding water from risky privatization.

By Gazette Staff

March 13th, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON’

A recent legal opinion, commissioned by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), validates the numerous concerns we (Environmental Defence) have expressed about Ontario’s new Water and Wastewater Public Corporations Act. Despite government claims to the contrary, the act lacks the precision necessary to safeguard water from risky privatization.

If the government is sincere about water remaining public, it must amend the act to include a requirement that corporations be owned by a true public sector entity, like a municipality.

As the act is currently written, the term ‘public’ does not legally protect water from privatization. There is no limit to who can own these ‘water and wastewater public corporations.’ The government should align its actions with its words and amend the law. Water is not a commodity.

In Ontario, we have some of the cleanest, safest drinking water right now because water systems are something we all own and operate through our city and town governments.

Background Information

ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENCE (environmentaldefence.ca): Environmental Defence is a leading Canadian environmental advocacy organization that works with government, industry and individuals to defend clean water, a safe climate and healthy communities.

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Ontario Leader of the Opposition hammers Ford for changing the rules to hide the truth from Ontario 

By Gazette Staff

March 15th, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

 

 

Stiles: “An honest government doesn’t change the rules to hide from the public.”

QUEEN’S PARK — Official Opposition Leader Marit Stiles is blasting Doug Ford’s move to exempt himself, and his cabinet ministers’ offices from Freedom of Information (FOI) requests.

“Doug Ford is changing the rules so he can hide the truth from Ontarians,” said Stiles.

“Under these rules, it would have been impossible to uncover this government’s Greenbelt corruption, their Las Vegas massages, or their preferential treatment for the multi-billion dollar private spa at Ontario Place.

“The Premier shouldn’t forget that his government is under active RCMP criminal investigation, and when the RCMP come knocking, these cloak-and-dagger rules won’t protect the government. They’ll have warrants.

“An honest government doesn’t change the rules to hide from the public. But Doug Ford’s government does.”

 

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A Council meeting that had a delegation they actually interacted with - it was a bit of a gong show

By Gazette Staff

March 13th, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Stern: Council can’t solve this problem. It’s a provincial issue.

Eric Stern, one of two people who publish Focus Burlington, had finished his delegation before the Council on March 2nd, and he was asked to remain at the podium to answer questions from Council members. The delegation focused on the mayor’s proposal to eliminate development charges.

Councillor Sharman:  But the question that triggered in my mind is the accumulation of equity and how you bring that into your comments, because it’s clear that people who have owned a home a long time have accumulated significant equity, and that relates to the property taxes they pay. So what’s the answer?

Stern: I’m looking at it as, what are the rules today? The rules of the game today are your tax is based on the property value. And in reality, people that live on the Lakeshore pay more property tax. Higher-income earners pay more property taxes. Where the regressive property tax hurts is for somebody on ODSP. They don’t have any flexibility. You’re coming in, and you’re raising their taxes, and there’s nothing they can do about it. So that’s the reality we’re in today. What the answer is, I don’t know. That’s a different discussion altogether. But we have to live within the rules that we have right now.

Sharman: Yeah, but what you’re suggesting, if I may follow up on that, is that the council should therefore solve the problem by changing the tax, the way in which you tax the property taxes.

Stern: Not at all. I’m saying these are the rules we have. Council can’t solve this problem. It’s a provincial issue. I know lobbying is taking place from FCM and from the big city mayors. But for today’s discussion and the next two years, it’s very unlikely that the change is going to take place.

Sharman:  Right? So we should just accept that reality and work within it.

Stern’s take: One of the responsibilities of a council is to manage spending. This council believes it is an impossible task, is borrowing millions, and is also going hat in hand to other levels of government asking for money. My argument is that other levels of government are a) broke and b) funded by the same taxpayer. The solution: Burlington’s council needs to manage its spending and live within its means. If that means continuing to collect development charges, eliminating huge severance packages, and bike lanes, then, in my opinion, the community will survive.

Councillor Stolte: … , the idea that we’re making quick decisions without public input on multi, multi, multi millions of dollars is not appropriate. So would a cap policy that sets a cap and then a process that leads from that be helpful?

Stern: Yes

Stern’s take: The mayor’s proposal to completely eliminate development charges without funding from another level of government blindsided residents. Proposals without budget funding and with price tags of $100,000 or more should follow a procedure that requires our elected representatives to consult with us before spending our money.

Councillor Sharman:  … if indeed the CIP suggestion recommendation today actually involves dealing with, perhaps, amendments to the existing CIP. Would that be more acceptable?

Stern:  I haven’t read the CIP, because all the discussions on this between September and February, where another level of government was going to make Burlington whole and it wasn’t really a big concern for me, other than, you know, I’m not sure about the overlaps and things like that, so I haven’t done any research on it.

I have a life, and I like to enjoy my retirement and do other things besides reading Council documents. So it’s completely unfair that this issue blows up two weeks ago.

Councillor Sharman: No, and I totally agree with you, which is why we’re referring it. Having said that, though, do you also feel that instead of having sound bites thrown at you, it would be helpful if we had a more fulsome discussion?

Stern: It would be helpful to have some clear information. I’ve asked for the motions, all of those things for all residents, not just for me

Councillor Kearns:  I’m just going to touch on that point around community engagement being tied to a financial obligation. Do you have any idea how much the decision today might cost?

Stern: I don’t even know what the decision today is.

Kearns:  Exactly, exactly.

Mayor Meed Ward:  … So you did talk about the property taxes being regressive, couldn’t agree more. And you touched on Federation of Canadian Municipalities, as well as the Association of Municipalities, as well as Ontario big city mayors and many others asking for a new framework with the federal and provincial governments. Could we count on your support in continuing our advocacy to get that? Recognizing other provinces don’t have DCs at all. Other provinces don’t download social services to the local tax base, etc. So, there’s other places in Canada that are ahead of us.

Stern: It’s a complicated issue. The federal and provincial governments are based, in my opinion, broke or approaching bankruptcy. For this council to come up with ideas and programs that they want to implement and then expect another level of government to fund them, it just doesn’t make sense. I mean, the debt level now, the federal and provincial deficits and debts are astronomical. So how can you expect those governments to divide, give you some of their share? You can expect those governments to turn around and increase taxes on people and then give you some of that increase in tax. That’s a possibility, but I don’t see them giving up part of their share. And to me, it just means, I think you need to live within your means and get back to doing the boring things that municipalities do, cutting grass and fixing potholes and not saving industries. And I’m sorry, I don’t, I use a lot of wonderful city services. Let me add that. Some of these things are more down-to-earth, a better choice of words.

Stern’s take: This council has taken on many issues, saving the development industry, saving the planet, changing the municipal tax structure, framework documents, visioning studies, … They’ve lost their way and forgotten what their actual jobs are.

Meed Ward: … My other question is just around the process for getting motions circulated and out to the community and on the agenda. Interested in your advice for us, I can tell you that members that wanted to bring motions tried valiantly to get it on the agenda and were advised it was out of order with our procedure bylaw and it had to come at the meeting. So our next best thing was to circulate it publicly. I hope you’re on newsletters. It was in there as well. So do you think we would benefit from some maybe changes or updates that would allow those motions to come forward as part of an addendum in the council agenda?

Stern: I don’t follow it to the level of detail that Jim Thompson does, and should be commended for doing that. So, I don’t understand it. I don’t think it’s fair, and I think something needs to change. And I also, I’ve received three or four newsletters, other people forwarded other words to me from the community. I don’t any details of the motion …

Stern’s take: Our councillors and the city appear to be following Donald Trump’s approach: Issue “truths” on social media and expect the community to understand what’s going on. The procedure bylaw that prevents motions from being shared on the meeting agenda appears to be engineered to deny public engagement.

Councillor Kearns: well, it’s a good thing. The engagement charter is coming out soon. So my question is this, do you think we can bring advocacy to the bank, or should we be extremely certain on our funding sources before we make decisions?

Stern: I’ve talked to people at the federal government level, and they have meetings like this, and they talk about a valid use of taxpayer dollars, and people break out laughing, because there’s no public in the room, right? Taxpayers’ dollars are taxpayers’ dollars, and they’re important. They’re a sacred trust that we give to staff, and we give to this council to use wisely. So yes, of course, there should be public input when significant amounts of taxpayer dollars are being spent.

Kearns: My second question is this, do you feel like it’s fair to be blamed for not knowing about an upcoming amendment using someone’s personal email newsletter?

Stern: I think I’ll let that one answer itself.

 

You can watch the full question and answer session here:

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How RNG Testing Shapes Fair Play at Glorion Casino

By Frederick Oostram

March 15th, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Players often wonder whether every spin or deal represents a fair experience, and this curiosity leads to frequent questions about Glorion in particular. Behind many digital casino games, a random number generator (RNG) helps determine outcomes in line with the game’s programmed rules. Understanding how RNG testing works offers useful context for evaluating fairness at Glorion Casino, whether on slots, cards, or other digital games.

Each outcome is generated independently of previous rounds.

In online gambling, “randomness” is a technical claim rather than a marketing slogan. For many game types, the outcome is produced by software, not by physical cards, dice, or wheels. That makes the quality of the RNG, and the way it is tested, central to whether results behave as intended over time. The sections below outline what RNGs do, how testing is typically approached, and where players most often encounter RNG-driven outcomes in Glorion Casino environments.

Why randomness matters in digital casino games

Randomness is the baseline requirement for outcomes to be unpredictable from one round to the next. If results could be anticipated or influenced through patterns, timing, or player behaviour, the game’s stated odds would no longer describe what actually happens during play. For that reason, digital casino products like those at Glorion Casino are usually designed so each outcome is generated independently of previous rounds.

In practical terms, independence means a prior win or loss does not make the next outcome more or less likely. It also means the game’s behaviour should be consistent across devices and sessions, within the limits of its programmed probabilities. When players assess fairness at Glorion Casino, this concept of independence is often at the centre of their questions about how games behave.

What an RNG is and what it does in play

An RNG is software that produces numbers used to select outcomes, such as where a slot reel stops or which virtual card is dealt next. Most modern systems rely on a pseudo-random number generator, which uses algorithms to create sequences that aim to be statistically indistinguishable from true randomness for gaming purposes. The RNG’s output is then translated into game events according to the rules embedded in the game’s code.

An RNG is not intended to adjust results based on a person’s identity, past activity, or the size of a wager. Instead, the key design goal is that each game round draws from the same probability model every time it is played. Discussions about RNG fairness often focus on whether the generator behaves consistently with these principles and whether testing supports that expectation.

How RNG testing is typically approached

When players consider fairness questions about the practical issue is not only whether numbers are generated, but whether the whole chain, from generated values to displayed outcomes, operates as designed.

RNG testing generally focuses on whether outcomes meet expected statistical properties, such as uniformity and independence. In broad terms, that can involve analyzing large samples of generated numbers to check for biases or patterns that should not exist in a well-functioning system. Testing may also include verifying that the RNG implementation matches its specification and that changes to software do not introduce unintended effects.

Another focus is mapping, confirming that RNG outputs are correctly translated into game results. For example, a number range might be assigned to particular symbols on a slot or specific cards in a shuffle model, and the mapping must reflect the intended distribution. When players consider fairness questions about Glorion Casino, the practical issue is not only whether numbers are generated, but whether the whole chain, from generated values to displayed outcomes, operates as designed.

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A team caught between outsider status and real opportunity

By Sadie Selfert

March 13, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

With the 2026 World Cup on home soil approaching fast, Canada’s odds, squad battles and final friendlies are beginning to reveal how far Jesse Marsch’s side could realistically go.

Canada’s outright World Cup price currently sits at +25000, which tells you the market still sees this team as an outsider rather than a genuine challenger. That is fair. Winning the tournament would require a jump from Canada that no serious analyst is projecting. But once you move away from the outright market and into the more realistic ones, the picture becomes more interesting.

Canada are around -225 to get out of their group, while a group-stage exit is priced near +162. Reaching the Round of 16 is around +300 and a quarter-final run sits at +750.

That is where the real conversation begins. Not whether Canada are about to lift the trophy on home soil, but whether they are far enough along under Jesse Marsch to make the kind of run that shifts the national mood and changes how the program is seen.

Comparing World Cup betting markets across Canadian sportsbooks

If you want to compare those prices across different operators, you can see the reviewed sites here. The comparison page breaks down the leading online sportsbooks available to Canadian players and explains how they are evaluated through Covers’ BetSmart testing process. Each platform is assessed across several key factors, including payout speeds, mobile app quality, betting market depth, security and customer support. The guide also highlights current welcome offers and shows which sportsbooks operate across the different Canadian provinces.

If you are looking at markets such as Canada to qualify from the group or reach the Round of 16, that context helps you judge where the odds are most competitive.

The answer probably lives somewhere in the details of these final months.

Final selection battles begin as Marsch assembles his World Cup camp

Marsch is expected to bring a large group into camp, potentially around 30 players, because this is the last meaningful chance to take stock before the squad is locked in. More than 20 places appear secure, injuries permitting, but there are still enough open spots to keep the margins alive. That matters because Canada are not entering this period with a settled, untouched squad. They are entering it with a few important questions still hanging in the air.
Alphonso Davies remains the tactical puzzle that shapes Canada’s left side

Alphonso Davies: his role always seems to invite discussion. Canada know what he offers. Everyone does. The intrigue lies in where he best serves them once the tournament starts.

Alphonso Davies is one of them, though only in the sense that his role always seems to invite discussion. Canada know what he offers. Everyone does. The intrigue lies in where he best serves them once the tournament starts. Davies would naturally offer menace higher up the pitch, where his pace and directness can break games open. Canada, though, have often looked at him and seen their best left back, the player who can drive them forward from deeper areas while still giving them security. His return to camp, assuming all continues well, is significant for obvious reasons, but the decision around how he is used will shape the entire left side of the team.

That flank has evolved slightly as well. Ali Ahmed’s move to Norwich has sharpened his profile at exactly the right time, and his early production in the Championship suggests a player growing into a bigger stage. Canada will take encouragement from that. In a World Cup squad, timing can count almost as much as reputation.

Injuries reopen the door for late-attacking contenders

So does health, and this is where the mood gets less comfortable.

Charles-Andreas Brym has pushed himself back into view.

Promise David’s hip injury has arrived at a bad time, not because Canada are short of forwards, but because he offered something different. Jonathan David, Cyle Larin and Tani Oluwaseyi already give Marsch options, but David’s profile made him useful in a particular way. If he is compromised, or if his rhythm is broken at the wrong moment, the door opens wider for outsiders. Charles-Andreas Brym has pushed himself back into view through recent form, while Aribim Pepple’s rise has become difficult to ignore. You do not need to stretch the imagination too far to see how one of those late-blooming stories could become central over the next few weeks.

This is part of what makes these friendlies useful for bettors as well as supporters. You are not only watching results. You are watching for shape. You are watching to see who Marsch trusts, who he uses early, who he leans on when the game needs changing and which names keep appearing in the important minutes.

Stage-of-elimination markets reveal the realistic expectations

The more revealing markets, though, may be the stage-of-elimination ones. They tend to strip away romance and force a more sober question. What are Canada actually built to do?

At +162 to go out in the group, the market still sees early elimination as a real possibility. At +300 for the Round of 16, it sees a path. That feels about right. Canada have enough athleticism, enough front-foot energy and enough individual quality to make life awkward for good teams. They are not naïve in the way they once were. Nor are they entering this World Cup as a novelty act. The Copa América run helped with that. So did the growing sense that Marsch has pushed clear ideas into the squad.

But there is still fragility here, even if it is accompanied by a healthy dose of expectancy.

World Cup anticipation is spreading far beyond the host cities

The wider country is beginning to feel it too. Burlington, like many communities away from the host spotlight, has already explored what World Cup engagement could look like locally, including the prospect of a travelling FIFA fan experience coming through the city in the buildup to the tournament. That kind of planning says something about the scale of what is coming.

So does the city’s broader sporting memory. Burlington has long celebrated athletes, builders and community figures across multiple sports through honours such as the Burlington Sports Hall of Fame. Soccer is now trying to claim more space in that tradition. If this Canadian side delivers a defining summer, that story will not belong only to Toronto or Vancouver.

It will belong to places like Burlington too, where major tournaments are watched through local pride as much as national hope.

Canada enters 2026 suspended between promise and proof

And that is the real point of these odds.

They are not just numbers attached to a summer spectacle. They are markers of where Canada sits today, suspended between promise and proof. The market does not yet trust them with anything grand. But it does see them as live to reach the knockouts, dangerous enough to unsettle a group and just coherent enough to be worth serious attention.

For now, that feels like the honest place to start.

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Does Mayor Meed Ward think saying her statement about the $15 million offer to buy golf course was inadvertent will get her off the hook?

By Pepper Parr

March 12th, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Inadvertent, she claims?

Mayor Meed Ward told Burlington Today that “after the information had been released, it was determined that there was a breach of privilege, and the posts were removed.

Mayor Meed Ward said after the realization that privilege had been broken, she reached out to the Integrity Commissioner.

“I reached out to the integrity commissioner myself to have a conversation about this,” she told BurlingtonToday.

Mayor Marianne Meed Ward: “Inadvertent.”

“I can’t speak to any other process that might be underway with this, but certainly I take all of this very very seriously, and notwithstanding, it was inadvertent.

“We want to make sure that we learn and take whatever steps to make sure that this does not happen.”

Ward 4 Councillor Shawna Stolte has been very quiet on the mess the Mayor has gotten herself into.

Was the information Ward 4 Shawna Stole heard in a CLOSED session of Council and made public shortly after “inadvertent”  That mistake cost Stotle five days’ pay.

The current Integrity Commissioner has been fair in the past.

Let’s see what comes out of this.

As for inadvertent, who is Meed Ward kidding?  She got the information out because she saw it as something to keep her in the news.  And she is certainly in the news on this one.

This falls into the “the dog ate my homework excuse.

 

 

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Ontario NDP Launches Paid Summer Internship Program

By Gazette Staff

March 12th, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Ontario NDP is accepting applications for its 14-week Summer Youth Leadership Internship Program that gives young Ontarians aged 18 to 25 hands-on experience with organizing, campaigning, and working with communities across the province.

The program runs from May 10 to August 14, 2026 and includes 12 full-time paid internship positions.

Interns will probably get to work some of the time with party leader Marit Stiles. She is the Leader of the Opposition in the Ontario Legislature.

“We’re looking for young people with a spark,” said Janelle Brady, Ontario NDP President. “We know that young people across our province are organizing and doing the grassroots work to drive change. They care deeply about their communities and want to step up. We know that together, we can make change happen, and that is exactly why we launched this program.”

The internship program helps build the next generation of organizers and leaders by giving them practical experience in campaigns, community outreach, fundraising, and communications.

The interns may not get to campaign, but they will learn all about campaigning. The New Democrats are the best there is when it comes to boots on the ground.

Interns will work alongside experienced organizers, attend training sessions led by political strategists and communications professionals, and gain hands-on experience in campaign organizing and community outreach. Participants will also be paired with mentors and supported by a network of political, labour, and community organizing leaders.

The program includes dedicated placements to address the under-representation of many communities in political spaces, with positions reserved for Indigenous, Black, and Muslim youth. Remaining positions are open to all eligible applicants, with priority given to regional Ontario candidates and those from equity-seeking backgrounds.

Applications close March 27, 2026 at 5:00 PM ET. Applicants must be Ontario residents aged 18 to 25 who are eligible to work in Canada.

To apply or learn more, visit ONDPSip.ca.

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Devilrays leadership still at the table with City Staff - some shortcomings found in the Audit Report

By Gazette Staff

March 12th, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON

 

A small error on our part.

The swimmers training in Barcelona are from the BAD youth program (teens) not adults. Our error

It is a sign that despite everything that happened last year, the BAD Youth program is thriving.

The Burlington  Aquatic Devilrays appreciate the work done by the City Auditor, but believe it leaves key questions unanswered.

They have identified gaps in the analysis that they believe haven’t been fully addressed; they intend to continue working with the City to resolve them.

Their concerns relate to the overall scope of the audit and certain procedural aspects of the process.  The BAD leadership is still in active conversation with the City on a path forward.

This issue isn’t going away despite what the Mayor has said.

 

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New Democrats are letting you know where they stand on the Doug Ford ideas

By Gazette Staff

March 12th, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Ford wants to take control of the airport and allow jet planes to land.

Ontario NDP MPP Chris Glover (Spadina—Fort York) says Doug Ford’s plan to seize Billy Bishop Airport from the City of Toronto could undermine decades of work on Toronto’s waterfront.

“Doug Ford has a record of colossal failures,” said Glover. “The Eglinton Crosstown LRT opened seven years late and $8 billion over budget.

He closed the Science Centre instead of repairing the roof, and destroyed the West Island to give a $2.2 billion taxpayer subsidy for a private spa at Ontario Place.

Ontarians have no reason to believe this won’t be more of the same.

This is a high-maintenance transit line.

“Meanwhile, Ontario’s health care system is crumbling, and Ford’s OSAP cuts are handing an entire generation of students a lifetime debt sentence to get an education. Why aren’t these things his highest priority?

Students make their message clEAR.

“Ontario needs properly-funded schools and hospitals. If the Premier wants to make our province an economic powerhouse, he should start by reversing his OSAP cuts, and investing in our economic future.”

The New Democrats forgot to mention the 401 tunnel – and just where is that RCMP report on the GreenBelt scandal?

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How Lucky Wheelionaire Expands the TV-Style Format in the Online Casinos Industry

By Sadie Smith

March 12th, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Each round taking place live in a studio.

The live casino segment of iGaming has been growing fast in recent years. Alongside the usual live dealer tables, providers have started trying out formats that feel closer to TV game shows. These titles mix random game mechanics with studio-style broadcasts and let players take part in the action as it happens. Today, alongside traditional live games, leading online casinos, including https://Millioner.com/ca, also offer unusual releases, such as Lucky Wheelionaire from Imagine Live. This is an excellent example of how the television format is gradually adapting to the mechanics of online gambling and becoming a hit among Canadian gamblers.

What is the Lucky Wheelionaire TV show?

Lucky Wheelionaire is set up like a TV show. The game centers on a spinning wheel, with each round taking place live in a studio. Nowadays, you’ll see this kind of game at most well-known online casinos.

Key features of Lucky Wheelionaire:

  • At the center of the game is a large wheel, divided into sectors with varying odds and prize payouts.
  • The host starts the rounds, spins the wheel, and comments on the action, creating the atmosphere of a real television show.
  • The outcome of each round determines the wheel’s position after it stops, making the outcome completely random.
  • Each round is relatively quick, allowing players to place new bets without lengthy pauses.

Thus, Lucky Wheelionaire combines elements of a traditional live format with those of a television show. This approach makes the gameplay more dynamic than that of classic live casino tables.

Wagering via a TY program – what will they think of next.

How to play the Lucky Wheelionaire TV show?

Despite its studio format and visual richness, Lucky Wheelionaire gameplay is based on a fairly simple sequence of actions:

  1. Connecting to a gaming table. The player is directed to the online casino website, opens the Lucky Wheelionaire broadcast, and accesses the betting interface.
  2. Choosing a bet. Before a round starts, players choose one or more sectors on the wheel and place their bets.
  3. Starting the round. After all players have placed their bets, the host spins the wheel.
  4. Result Determination. The wheel spins, slows, and eventually lands on a sector, which is declared the winner.
  5. Winnings are awarded. Players who pick the sector that wins get paid based on the odds.

The setup keeps the game simple, so players aren’t bogged down by complicated rules. Lucky Wheelionaire’s straightforward mechanics let you enjoy the flow of each round and soak in the studio vibe.

Conclusion

TV-style games are gradually emerging as a distinct development trend in live casinos. They combine elements of television shows and classic gambling mechanics, creating a more spectacular and dynamic gaming experience. Lucky Wheelionaire demonstrates how this format can be adapted for online casinos, where a studio broadcast and random wheel mechanics become the core of the gameplay.

Thanks to this, such projects are expanding the diversity of live content and are gradually taking their rightful place in the iGaming industry.

 

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Tweet Tweet will be on the Performing Arts stage

By Gazette Staff

March 11, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Tweet Tweet! is a 30-minute contemporary circus performance experience for our youngest audience, aged 0-5 years and their caregivers. The show takes place on a magical tree apparatus. The performers move from the nests, up into the aerial tree canopy, through the rope tree trunk, and on the floor. There is a large forest floor carpet that lies beneath the tree branches for the audience to sit and lie on.

Tweet Tweet! is the story of a magical tree and two young birds that discover each other, play, and learn to fly in its branches.

Contemporary circus performance experience for our youngest audience, aged 0-5 years.

Dates & Times

Thu, Mar 19, 2026 | 10am + 12pm + 2pm
Fri, Mar 20, 2026 | 10am + 12pm + 2pm

Venue

Community Studio Theatre

Ticket Prices

Tickets HERE

All Tickets: $20

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Inside the World of Online Gambling: What's Changing and Why Canadian Players Are Loving It

By Mark Lagefield

March 15th, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

See what’s new in Canadian online gambling in 2026. Ontario leads with massive growth, Alberta opens up, plus mobile, AI, and live games. Discover why Canadians are hooked and key events to watch.

Online Gambling in Canada 2026: Trends, Changes & Why Players Love It

Online gambling draws more Canadians every year. You grab your phone from home in Toronto, Vancouver, or anywhere, and start playing or betting. No trips to a casino, no lines. That easy access makes a big difference. If you’re looking for a solid place to start, https://winlion.com offers a range of online casino options worth checking out. Just remember to play responsibly and set your limits.

The numbers back it up. Canada’s gambling market grows steadily, with online activity pushing hard. Recent reports show national net gambling revenue heading toward about 15 to 16 billion dollars soon, and online takes a solid chunk. In Ontario alone, the regulated iGaming market exploded since 2022. Total wagers hit records like over 9 billion dollars in a single month recently, with gross revenue climbing fast. Better internet, more smartphones, and simple payments drive it. Single-event sports betting legalization opened doors wide.

Mobile Play Takes Over Completely

Canadians do most of their betting on phones now.

Canadians do most of their betting on phones now. Apps load quick, work on spotty connections, and let you bet live during hockey games or CFL matches. Imagine watching the Leafs or Blue Jays, and in seconds, you bet on the next goal or home run. That real-time rush keeps everyone coming back.

AI Makes Everything Feel Personal

Platforms use AI to figure out your style. Like slots with Canadian themes or hockey bets? They push similar options first. Play blackjack at certain stakes? Tables match right away. Bonuses fit too. It feels custom-made, which keeps players loyal across provinces.

Live Dealer Games Bridge the Gap

Live dealer tables stay huge. A real dealer handles cards or roulette from a studio, streamed clearly. Chat with them or others at the table. It brings that casino vibe home, whether you’re in Calgary or Halifax, without the travel.

Better Tools for Safer Play

Ontario has been the leader in stronger controls and all kinds of features being introduced in accredited web sites.

Licensed sites push responsible gambling hard. Set deposit limits, time reminders, or self-exclude. Ontario’s regulator and others make these easy. Gambling should stay fun, and these tools help keep it that way.

What Draws Canadian Players In Right Now

Convenience wins big. Play anytime, from your couch or during a commute. Huge variety too. One app gives thousands of slots, table games, NHL bets, CFL lines, and more. Try new stuff easily. Promotions stretch money. Free bets, deposit matches, cashback. Check terms, though; wagering can add up. The thrill holds strong. Winning big feels great. Live betting, quick games, and social bits add more.

Key Events and Trends to Follow in 2026

Here are the interesting things happening right now in the Canadian online gambling space:

Alberta decided it could do what Ontario has already done.

Alberta’s regulated, iGaming market launch is finally coming. After years of planning private operators can enter the online gambling space soon. This is following the model as Ontario. The goal of the online gambling space is to pull players from unregulated sites. This could grow the online gambling space very fast.

The Canadian online gambling space in Ontario is still booming. The market in the online gambling space keeps setting new records for wagers and revenue. More operators are joining the online gambling space. We might see features like better liquidity or poker options in the Canadian online gambling space.

There are advertising rules in effect for the Canadian online gambling space. The Canadian Gaming Association has voluntary standards. These standards limit how promotions for the online gambling space reach people. This is especially important to protect minors and promote responsibility in the online gambling space.

Prediction markets and novelty bets are growing in the online gambling space. People are making bets on politics, entertainment or events beyond sports in the online gambling space. These bets pick up around news or awards in the Canadian online gambling space.

The Canadian online gambling space is seeing AI security improvements. Platforms in the online gambling space are using better tools to catch fraud instantly. This is very important after issues in the Canadian online gambling space.There are iGaming events and conferences happening in the Canadian online gambling space. These gatherings highlight tech, gamification and possibly VR steps in the Canadian online gambling space.

Big sports calendars are driving action in the online gambling space. Events, like the NHL playoffs the FIFA World Cup co-hosted by Canada, the Olympics and the rise of women’s sports create betting waves in the online gambling space.

Tech, Access, and Responsibility: The New Face of Online Gambling

Online gambling changes quickly here because of tech advances, players want easy access, and provinces balance growth with safety. Whether you choose to play Canadian slots or try other games, convenience is everywhere. It isn’t for everyone. Set limits, play only what you can afford to lose.

See what’s new in Canadian online gambling in 2026. Ontario leads with massive growth, Alberta opens up, plus mobile, AI, and live games. Discover why Canadians are hooked and key events to watch.

 

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Why Burlington Drivers Are Rethinking Auto Insurance in 2026

By Serban Ziller 

March 10th, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Another reason to live in Burlington, even if taxes feel high and housing remains competitive, is that drivers here appear to be taking insurance decisions seriously.

A recent Ontario-wide study looked at the gap between risky driving behaviour and reported collisions across municipalities. Some cities showed unusually large differences between the number of traffic violations and the number of officially reported accidents. Burlington, however, landed on the opposite end of the spectrum.

Collisions like this get reported. .

Along with cities such as Kingston, Richmond Hill, and Mississauga, Burlington reports accidents at higher rates relative to dangerous driving tickets. In simple terms, when collisions happen here, they are more likely to be formally reported.

That matters in today’s insurance climate.

The True Cost of One At-Fault Accident

Auto insurance premiums in Ontario can rise sharply after an at-fault claim. Many drivers are surprised by how much their renewal increases following a single accident. With average annual premiums already among the highest in Canada, one collision can add thousands of dollars in additional costs over the next several years.

Even minor collisions have become expensive. Modern vehicles rely on advanced sensors and computerized components, which makes repairs more complex than they once were. A simple bumper repair can easily reach $1,500 to $2,000. When deductibles sit at $1,000 or more, some drivers consider paying out of pocket rather than filing a claim.

That short-term decision may seem practical, but it can carry long-term implications, particularly if another incident occurs before those costs are fully absorbed.

Why More Burlington Drivers Are Reviewing Their Policies

Instead of automatically renewing, many local residents are taking time to reassess their coverage.

Common questions include:

  • Should I increase my deductible?
  • Is accident forgiveness worth the additional cost?
  • How long will a claim affect my premium?
  • Does my policy reflect how I actually use my vehicle?

According to James Inwood, Oakville Insurance Broker, many drivers underestimate how long surcharges remain on their record. He notes that reviewing coverage before a claim happens can prevent costly surprises later.

For small business owners, the conversation can be even more nuanced. Vehicles used beyond simple commuting may require closer attention to how coverage applies, particularly as more drivers make the switch to electric models. Repair costs, battery systems, and specialized components can all influence how claims are assessed. Taking time to understand how coverage responds to newer vehicle technology can help prevent unexpected gaps if an accident occurs.

The cost of the repairs is one thing – the increase in your insurance premiums is another concern.

A Shift Toward Risk Awareness

Rising premiums, inflation, and higher repair costs are changing how drivers think about insurance. It is no longer just about finding the lowest price. It is about understanding long-term financial exposure.

Burlington’s relatively consistent accident reporting suggests a community that values transparency. In a system where accurate reporting affects risk pools and premium calculations, that consistency benefits everyone over time.

With 2026 expected to bring continued pressure on auto insurance rates across Ontario, more Burlington drivers are choosing to review their policies carefully rather than react after a claim occurs.

That proactive mindset may be one more reason the city continues to stand out.

 

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Adult Devilray swimmers training in Spain in a 50 metre pool - something Burlington should be planning for

By Pepper Parr

March 12th, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

OPINION

Head Coach Sergei Soloukhin

Burlington Aquatic Devilrays Swim Club Swimming Director and Head Coach Sergei Soloukhin is on his way to Barcelona, Spain for a Spring Training Camp with my Senior Group.  They will be with six clubs from Ontario with swimmers from provincial qualifiers in high-performance events. They will be training together, getting ready for Long Course Season.

The pool the Adult swimmers will use for training in Barcelona is what Burlington should be planning for.

The Devilrays adult program is in great shape.

The Youth Clubs took a serious hit when the City Auditor chose to take a very technical approach to the report he prepared for Council that spelled the end of opportunities for the Youth groups to get needed pool time.

Council member, Mayor Meed Ward, Councillors Galbraith, Nisan, Stolte, Sharman and Bentivegna were mute when the matter came to Council on Tuesday.  They chose to believe that GHAC was a Burlington not-for-profit and awarded them a four year contract.  GHAC has never been a Burlington organization.  They had a Burlington mailing address

The contract GHAC signed does have provisions to revise or bring to an end should they choose to do so.

Council members appear to have forgotten who they are representing.

The Devilrays got stiffed by their City Council.

There will come a time when the Devilrays will get the pool time they need in their city.

 

 

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Performing Arts Centre has a Spring Break program for the 4-9 cohort

By Gazette Staff

March 11th, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON

The Performing Arts Centre has put together programming for the Spring Break (Monday, March 16 to Friday, March 20)  Curious George will be on the stage.

All-you-can-eat meatball day came just once a year. George had been waiting all month for that day, a day almost bigger than his birthday!

On Meatball Day, George helped his friend, Chef Pisghetti, cook some delicious meatballs and serve them to the hungry crowd.

But this year, the crowd had vanished! Something was keeping people away… something pretty big.

And that something was Phinneas T. Lightspeed and his speedy Meatballs-o-Matic machine. In despair, Chef Pisghetti vows to cook no more. Determined to help his friend, George goes on a mission to enter the Chef’s meatballs in the world-famous Golden Meatball Contest in Rome.

Audience: Pre-K – 3rd grade; ages 4-9

Tickets  HERE

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Essence of Leonard Cohen at the Performing Arts March 14th

By Gazette Staff

March 11th, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Essence of Cohen is a stunning recreation of Leonard Cohen live, featuring some of the best musicians and singers from Quebec including Jeff Fisher who collaborated with Leonard on two of his albums.

Enjoy your favourite Cohen hits, including Suzanne, So long Marianne, Hallelujah, First we take Manhattan and many more!

Essence of Cohen also welcomes Amy Lin, a crossover violinist and award-winning education from Burlington. Amy blends her classical background with pop, blues, and rock to reimagine familiar songs in fresh ways.

Show Dates & Times:  Sat Mar 14, 2026 at 7pm

Main Theatre

Show Length: Approx. 150 mins including intermission

Ticket Prices

Regular: $55 (All-in)
Children 12 & Under: $45 (All-in)

BPAC Member: $5 off

Group Tickets

10 % off for groups of 10 or more
*Phone or in-person only

Buy Tickets HERE

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Community Development Halton working with East Plains United Church to explore how space can be a shared asset for local residents, organizations

By Gazette Staff

March 11th, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Community Development Halton has been working with the Community Connections Team at East Plains United Church to imagining how their space can be an asset in the Aldershot area of Burlington. Please see details below for an invitation to a special event on April 16th, where your voice matters.

East Plains United Church

You’re Invited to Community Connections at East Plains United Church

Join us for an afternoon of connection, learning, and community exploration. Together, well identify the needs and strengths of Aldershot and explore how East Plains United Church’s space can be a shared asset for local residents, organizations, and community partners.

What to Expect

Presentation and conversation on community needs & strengths

Tour of the church space and its possibilities Opportunities to share ideas, hopes, and challenges Light refreshments & informal networking

Who Should Attend?

Anyone who lives, works, volunteers, organizes, or cares about the Aldershot neighbourhood.

Why Your Voice Matters

Community Connections at East Plains United Church is about opening doors — literally and figuratively — as the church explores how its space can support meaningful community use, partnerships, programs, and gathering opportunities.

Join us on April 16 from 1 to 3 pm

East Plains United Church 375 Plains Rd E, Burlington

For questions or accessibility needs: office@eastplainsunitedchurch.com

We look forward to gathering with you and imagining new possibilities together.

East Plains United Church Community Connections Team

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Devilrays hosted 2026 Spring Invitational: it turned out to be the largest Spring Invitational in the club's 40-plus-year history.

By Pepper Parr

March 11th, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

It is an aquatic club that is hard to beat.

This past weekend (March 6-8), the Burlington Aquatic Devilrays hosted their 2026 Spring Invitational at Centennial Pool, and it turned out to be the largest Spring Invitational in the club’s 40-plus-year history.

They had 547 swimmers competing across three days, sessions running at full capacity, and an outstanding number of personal bests across all age groups.

It’s been a strong season for the club overall record, meet attendance, a sold-out team social event, growing membership, and strengthening partnerships across Burlington, including with the YMCA.

Photos to follow.

 

 

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Development is not dead: application for 597 residential units in a mix of single-detached and townhouse is before the city planners

By Gazette Staff

March 11th, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Paul Paletta

Paul Paletta has been itching to get shovels in the ground on the Bronte Creek Meadows development.  Before the end of 2025 was his hope.

An application has been submitted to the city Planning Department proposing to amend the Official Plan, Zoning By-law, and apply for a Draft Plan of Subdivision for the lands located at 5164, 5366, 5470 and 5900 Upper Middle Road and 5201 Mainway to create 254 lots and blocks including parks and open space blocks, employment blocks, natural heritage and stormwater management blocks, and a new public road network as “Phase 1”. Phase 1 will provide approximately 597 new residential units in a mix of single-detached, townhouse and medium-density mixed use residences.

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Ontario Minister of Finance: 'The outlook is uncertain'

By Gazette Staff

March 11th, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

 

Minister of Finance Peter Bethlenfalvy standing in the Legislature.

With comments like this from the provincial Minister of Finance don’t expect much in the way of good news on March 26th, when the budget is released March 26th.

“Geopolitical forces that may have once felt distant now reach our doorstep. Trade pressures, supply chain disruptions, and shifting markets are sending unpredictable shocks through economies everywhere.”

“The world has changed — and Ontario must be ready for what change may bring, even if that means being prepared for tougher times,” the treasurer warned.

“We’re already starting to see the impacts across the country. Other provinces so far this year have published record deficits while hiking taxes and cutting public sector jobs.”

 

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