 By Aria Wilson
July 31st, 2025
BURLINGTON ON
Our world is a changing place. With the introduction of mental health destigmatization comes tough realities. This is one of many stories of a family changed by the devastating impacts of negative mental health. This is the story of my family.
It was the end of the school year in 2020. I thought that I was just going to get a two-week break from school. While I enjoyed the time spent online, playing games with my friends, it never occurred to me that the adults and loved ones in my life were slowly beginning to feel more alone, more isolated from the world around them. With the virtual shift caused by the COVID-19 pandemic came job losses and a decline in communication with people who you loved. Sometimes a difference of opinion was enough to tear people apart at such a troubling time.
I often come back to the pandemic when I think of the causes of the uptick in mental health problems lately, especially in more mature demographics. According to the World Health Organization, global levels of anxiety and depression increased twenty-five per cent in the first year of the pandemic. I wonder if perhaps the lack of in-person interaction was enough to cause some of the cases. I know that this certainly contributed to my story.
 It wasn’t until a couple of years later that the problems for my family came to the surface. At this time, a member of my family had already been struggling with his physical health for several years. He had slipped a disc in his spine, a painful and debilitating injury. Through countless doctor’s visits, several neurology appointments, and seemingly endless surgeon consults, nothing had been done to change the situation this individual faced.
Due to hospital systems being overworked and overbooked, surgery continuously got pushed further. The longer we waited, the more it started to feel like we would never get the chance to see change. I think this is when my family member’s mental health began to dwindle.
Losing hope by the minute, there seemed to be very little that could be done for our family. Other than occasional spinal injections that do little but numb the spine, mobility became even more of a challenge and limited this individual’s connection to the world.
 Left: Eric Vandewall, president and CEO of Joseph Brant Hospital; Michael Paletta; launched the For All Minds campaign with a $5-million donation from Michael and Laura Paletta towards a $20-million community fundraising goal. It all came to a head when my family member was admitted to the hospital in the Inpatient Mental Health Unit. With all the physical strain that had not been resolved, a mental toll had ultimately overtaken the problems plaguing my family member.
The first time we admitted him to the hospital, he only spent a night before he came home. I believe this was a mistake, as he had to return to the hospital no more than a week later.
While the programs available in the hospital were helpful during his stay, we found little communication and follow-up after his visits, leading to a cycle of short stays at home, followed by the necessity to return to the hospital.
We have finally, after more than five stays in the mental health unit, found a day program to assist the family member’s mental health. And still, to this day, he has not received any notice of available surgery for mobility complications.
I do not place blame on the hospital systems; I know that staff have truly cared for my family and want to see my family member get better.
If nothing, let my story serve as a reminder to spend time with your family, teach them new ways to interact with each other and stay active, and certainly don’t take any of your time together for granted.
 Aria Wilson will return to Carlton University in September to begin her second year as a journalism student
By Pepper Parr
July 30, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
There is an organization that spends all its time educating the people of Ontario about the government’s failures in the public health sector. It is The Ontario Health Coalition (OHC) , a network of more than 500 grassroots community organizations representing virtually all areas of Ontario.
 The Coalition has begun to make a difference. They have been working for a number of years on a massive community outreach. They found that their efforts a couple of years ago to reach more than a million people with leaflets made a very significant difference. They explained why privatization is the destruction of our public health care and highlighted what the Ford government is doing. It took literally thousands of volunteers across the province to make this happen and you can see the results in the polls.
All across Canada, people oppose health care privatization but in Ontario the polls show that the support for public health care and opposition to its privatization are the highest in the country – by a significant margin. This is our collective effort and it is the most powerful bulwark against the erosion of our public health care that we can levy.
During the past year the OHC challenged themselves to set a goal of reaching two million Ontarians directly with leaflets opposing health care privatization. They managed to reach more than 900,000 last spring and more than 140,000 during the election period. They are continuing this effort by launching a petition campaign this summer calling on the Government of Canada to uphold and enforce the Canada Health Act and to stop the Ford government from violating it in the private clinics.
 In the fall, they will issue a new leaflet with a goal of reaching every doctor, nurse, health professional and health care worker in Ontario. We will also have one for the general public. We know that the more people understand what is happening, the more they support the fightback.
As you know, this has been a tough government. They do what they can get away with. It is our job to create a political context such that it is impossible for them to dismantle and privatize our public health care. Now, with a new term and a majority government, that task is much more difficult. However, nothing is impossible.
The OHC held a Day of Action at the Legislature in May for those communities with small and rural hospitals at risk and demanded the government stop the closures of emergency departments and vital hospital service closures. We had more than 150 people filedl the Public Galleries at the Legislature, held meetings with politicians and joined a press conference. The Minister of Health was forced to answer non-stop questions in the Legislature, demanding that she take action on this issue.
 The people of Ontario want to keep their public health care system – they need some help. In June we got a major front-page media story in the Toronto Star featuring patients who have been extra-billed in private clinics illegally. We followed this with formal complaints from 50 patients, complete with receipts and proof of payment, to the federal and provincial government to get them to enforce the Canada Health Act in Ontario. We called on the Ontario government to reimburse patients charged for medically necessary services at the private clinics and we called on the federal government to uphold the Canada Health Act and enforce it against the Ford government. We will be following up on that work in the fall.
This is just a sample of what the OHC has done and will continue to do to ensure that this government is held accountable and feels the pressure to improve their record.
They are now asking people to consider making an automatic donation monthly. It doesn’t have to be a lot, everything makes a big difference. The OHC can only do what they can afford to do and that depends entirely on donations and memberships.
This is where you give your financial support;
 By Gazette Staff
July 29th, 2025
BURLINGTON,
Canadian Blood Services is calling on all donors with O-negative type blood to donate as soon as they can. O-negative blood is vital in emergency care, because it is compatible with all blood types, and can be given to any patient. When seconds count, and there is no time to check blood types, hospital patients receive O-negative blood – the universal blood type.
 Only 7 per cent of people in Canada have O-negative blood. This is a small percentage with a huge impact. That’s why it is so important that people with O-negative blood donate regularly, if they can.
If you know that your blood is O-negative, Canadian Blood Services is asking you to book an appointment or come to a donor centre today. It’s likely that someone in your family also has O-negative blood, so you can double your impact by inviting them to join you.
Hospitals have the blood they need today, but that could change if appointments aren’t filled. Demand is high for O-negative blood this summer, so O-negative donations are needed right away to keep the supply strong. Come to a donor centre today or book an appointment at your earliest opportunity. If you’ve already booked your appointment, please honour it, or rebook if your schedule changes.
While O-negative donors are especially needed right away, donors of all types are encouraged to make a plan to donate this summer. You will find out what your blood type is after your first donation.
Visit blood.ca or download the GiveBlood app to find a location near you. If you’ve never donated before, there is no better time to discover the profound sense of purpose and connection you feel when you donate blood.
Be part of something that matters and experience what you get when you give. Book now on blood.ca, use the GiveBlood app or call 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888-236-6283).
 By Gazette Staff
July 14th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Alberta has surpassed the United States in confirmed measles cases, after 30 new cases were diagnosed over the weekend.
 Measles is an exceptionally contagious disease, and can cause death. The province reported Monday that it has seen 1,314 cases since the beginning of March.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported 1,288 cases so far this year across 39 states, though case numbers are updated weekly with the next update expected on Wednesday.
The outbreak of the highly contagious disease hasn’t led to any deaths so far in Alberta, but three people, including two children, have died in the United States.
The U.S. has also seen more hospitalizations, with the CDC reporting 162 people, or 13 per cent of all cases, being hospitalized compared to 102 Albertans as of earlier this month.
Alberta’s measles dashboard says two people are currently in hospital, including one person receiving intensive care.
Dr. Craig Jenne, an immunology and infectious disease professor at the University of Calgary, says once measles started spreading at the community level, Alberta’s low vaccination rate meant it was only a matter of time before the province surpassed the U.S. in cases.
“This was largely predictable,” he said in an interview.
“It was pretty clear we were going to see growth, unfortunately, for several weeks to months.”
Region of Halton reported a case of measles on June 16, 2025.
 By Andrew Sniderman
July 13th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Why doesn’t equalization apply to Indian reserves? It’s right there in the Constitution: the commitment to providing essential public services of reasonable quality to all Canadians.
And yet, we take for granted that schools and hospitals in places like Fredericton, Whitehorse, and Charlottetown are decently funded.
This is the magic of “equalization,” which helps ensure comparable public services in parts of Canada that couldn’t otherwise afford them thanks to federal transfers to poorer provinces and territories. Equalization is the “improbable glue that holds a nation together,” as author Mary Janigan puts it.
But did you know that Indian reserves are excluded from equalization?
About 330,000 people live on reserves. That is more than the population of Prince Edward Island (157,000). And it’s more than the number of people who live in the three territories — Yukon (45,000), Northwest Territories (45,000), and Nunavut (39,000).
And yet, unlike provinces and territories, Indian reserves do not receive a legal commitment to comparable public services from the federal government.
Not coincidentally, basic services on reserves are subpar and underfunded by any provincial or territorial measure. The problem extends to policing, education, child welfare, access to clean water, fire services, and more.
The exclusion of reserves from equalization is a legal omission, all too often overlooked, that has enabled a policy problem to fester.
A little-known section of the Constitution
If you’re Canadian, you’ve heard of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which is part of the Constitution Act, 1982. The Charter has 34 sections.
If you’re a lawyer, you’ve probably heard of Section 35, which comes right after the Charter and addresses “Aboriginal rights.”
Lawyer or not, you’ve almost certainly never heard of Section 36. This is the part that mentions equalization: “Parliament and the government of Canada are committed to the principle of making equalization payments to ensure that provincial governments have sufficient revenues to provide reasonably comparable levels of public services at reasonably comparable levels of taxation.”
The federal government distributes billions of tax dollars to deliver on this commitment. In 2024-25, poorer provinces received over $25 billion in unconditional transfers. For example, Manitoba received $4.4 billion (or 18 per cent of its total budget), and New Brunswick received $2.9 billion (or 23 per cent of its total provincial budget). Meanwhile, Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Columbia received nothing.
Like Indian reserves, the territories aren’t explicitly mentioned in Section 36, either. But they nonetheless receive annual transfers to ensure comparable services thanks to a federal law that makes them mandatory. Payments go to each territorial government under a program called Territorial Formula Financing.
So: equalization is the law, supreme or otherwise, for provinces and territories. But not for Indian reserves. They remain separate and unequal.
 Siksika First Nation, east of Calgary near Gleichen, Alta., in June 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh Law versus policy
Surely this is too bad to be true, you might wonder. As a matter of policy, the federal government is often committed to comparable public services on reserves.
For example, federal policy about education on reserves includes an aim that “First Nations students on reserve achieve levels of secondary education comparable to non-Indigenous students in Canada.”
Similarly, federal cabinet and Treasury Board guidelines aim for comparable water services for on-reserve communities.
This seems comforting. But lately the federal government has made a point of distinguishing between its policy commitments and its legal duties, a distinction that confirms the seriousness of the problem.
In a current lawsuit over unsafe drinking water on reserves, the federal legal argument says that “Canada supports First Nations in providing safe drinking water to First Nations members on reserve as a matter of good governance rather than as a result of a legal duty.”
The government adds: “Canada’s spending on First Nations’ water must obviously compete with the rest of its budget allocations.”
Such claims suggest that the federal government will continue to defend its wide discretion in funding services on reserves. This includes the discretion to do more. Or less.
Taxation is a red herring
You might also be wondering why Section 36 talks about comparable public services at comparable levels of taxation. How significant are these last four words, given that status Indians on reserves sometimes pay lower taxes on income and consumption than other jurisdictions?
Canadians generally overestimate the scope of these tax exemptions, as Chelsea Vowel has written. However, to the extent the exemptions exist, they could imply that worse services are consistent with less taxation.
But equalization is based on the capacity of a province or territory to generate revenue at hypothetical levels of taxation. So the question becomes: how much revenue would reserves generate with standard taxation? Usually, not much.
A federal equalization program that includes First Nations
A grand notion
First Nations water problems a crisis of Canada’s own making
New models of shared rule can secure better infrastructure in Indigenous communities
Most of these communities live below the poverty line. The difference between the tax revenue a community would raise with or without existing tax exemptions would usually be modest, if not negligible.
So differences in taxation on reserves cannot serve as an excuse to avoid comparable services.
A promise to “every citizen”
There’s another part of Section 36 that few people ever talk about. It says: “Parliament and the legislatures, together with the government of Canada and the provincial governments, are committed to…providing essential public services of reasonable quality to all Canadians.”
Throughout the years of negotiations that led to the final wording of Section 36, the federal government argued in favour of using the federal spending power to ensure comparable public services across Canada.
As prime minister, Pierre Elliott Trudeau emphasized our interdependence. If a particular part of Canada were to do a particularly poor job of educating students or promoting health, for example, it would invariably affect other provinces as Canadians moved around freely.
Economists have long argued that it’s more efficient for Canadians to move for economic opportunity rather than for access to better public services.
Trudeau also argued that it is essential to develop a national sense of community to bind Canadians together. One way to do so was to ensure “the provision to every citizen, wherever he lives, of adequate levels of public services — in particular of health, welfare and education services.”
Are Canadians living on reserves not included in that promise?
If our Constitution cares about inequality between provinces, surely it must have something to say about people on reserves living in those very provinces. What is true for the parts of the whole should also be true for parts of the parts.
This article is adapted from material in “Constitutional silence, Section 36 and public services on Indian reserves” recently published in the University of Toronto Law Journal.
Andrew Stobo Sniderman is a doctoral candidate at Harvard Law School and co-author of the bestselling book Valley of the Birdtail: An Indian Reserve, a White Town, and the Road to Reconciliation.
 By Staff
June 18, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Halton Region Public Health was made aware of a confirmed case of measles that has led to a potential exposure in Halton on June 12.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads easily through the air.
Individuals may have been exposed to the measles virus at the following location on the date listed below:
3075 Hospital Gate – Medical Building, Oakville (whole building) on Thursday June 12 from 2:10 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
 Extremely contagious – get vaccinated! Visitors to this location between the times noted should:
- Check your immunization records to make sure you and any people who accompanied you have up to date measles vaccinations (two doses are recommended for anyone born on or after January 1, 1970). Your immunization record (yellow card) or your doctor can provide you with this information. If you are not immune and were potentially exposed, please contact Halton Region Public Health as you may benefit from post-exposure prophylaxis.
- Infants under one year of age, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems can get very ill with measles and should contact Halton Region Public Health or their health care professional immediately for further assessment.
- If you think you may have measles and need to see a doctor, you must call ahead to the doctor’s office, walk-in clinic or emergency department. This will allow health care staff to take the necessary precautions to reduce the risk of infection and protect others visiting the office, clinic or hospital.
- Watch for symptoms of measles until 21 days after exposure.
Symptoms can appear 7 to 21 days after contact with someone with the measles virus. Measles symptoms may include:
- fever
- cough
- runny nose
- red eyes
- sleepiness
- irritability
- small, white spots on the inside of the mouth (Koplik Spots)
- a red blotchy rash that first starts on the face and spreads down the body, arms, and legs (this rash can last 4 to 7 days)
“Measles is a serious disease that can be prevented with a safe and effective vaccine. I encourage everyone to ensure their immunizations, including for measles, are up to date, particularly children who may have missed their routine shots during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Dr. Deepika Lobo, Medical Officer of Health for Halton Region.
 By Staff
June 13th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
An alarming number of Canadians — over 414 — are diagnosed each day with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.
By 2050, this could add up to more than 1.7 million cases, translating to 685 new diagnoses every day or 29 every hour.
That’s why reimagining Alzheimer’s care in Canada is not just important for the system — it is imperative for all Canadians.
 The data comes from the Alzheimer Society of Ontario.
It’s going to take more than reimagining? Families are going to have to learn how to care for people who will be close to or at the point where they cannot care for themselves.
 By Staff
June 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 Eagles Nest: that group of people who work out of a church on the border between Burlington and Waterdown announced today that they were able to raise $10,527. in the auction they held.
 An item that drew well above the asking bid. Tickets to a Jays game. “Local businesses donated items; the response to the auction was great. People were bidding on items right until it closed.
“These funds will be used to provide affordable mental health services such as therapy, coaching and support programs to adults, youth and children.
The support for local, accessible mental health services is incredibly encouraging.
The Pearle Hotel and Spa hospitality gift card and the tickets to a Blue Jays up against the New York Yankees were top draws.
Reaching these people is an email away: info@eaglesnestwaterdown.ca
 By Yanis Temby
May 27th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 The supplement business is much more than steroids. It is a well established part of the health sector. Supplements are one of the most talked-about — and misunderstood — parts of the fitness world. From protein powders to muscle builders, opinions range from “life-changing” to “dangerous.”
The truth? Most of these opinions are based on myths, not facts.
In this article, we’ll break down five of the biggest supplement myths and show you how modern, science-backed products can support your fitness goals when used responsibly.
Myth #1: All Supplements Are Just Steroids in Disguise
 There are many different types of supplements. One of the biggest misconceptions is that any product designed to build muscle or improve recovery is automatically a steroid.
The Truth:
There are many different types of supplements — protein, creatine, amino acids, and more advanced options like SARMs or hormone regulators. Most of these do not function like steroids.
Some newer compounds, such as growth hormone secretagogues, support your body’s natural hormone production rather than replacing it. For example, MK-677 is a compound used to increase growth hormone levels naturally, without testosterone suppression or major side effects. It’s become a popular choice for improving sleep, boosting recovery, and supporting lean muscle development.
 You don’t need to be a pro bodybuilder or a competitive athlete to benefit from supplements. Myth #2: Supplements Are Only for Professional Athletes
You don’t need to be a pro bodybuilder or a competitive athlete to benefit from supplements.
The Truth:
Most people using supplements today are regular gym-goers who want to feel stronger, lose fat, or improve energy. Some supplements may be especially helpful as you get older, when natural hormone levels begin to decline.
With the right support — combined with solid training and nutrition — even beginners can see better, faster results. Many modern options are accessible, easy to use, and backed by clear guidance and quality control.
Myth #3: All Supplements Are Unsafe or Unregulated
Some people avoid supplements altogether because they worry about side effects or unsafe ingredients.
The Truth:
Quality varies — but that’s true of any industry. There are trusted brands that provide lab-tested, clean, and well-documented products. Look for supplements that use transparent labeling, organic carriers (like MCT oil), and published purity testing.
For example, SARM Canada is one company that emphasizes product purity, accurate dosing, and safe usage guidelines. Their products are formulated with high standards and are trusted by users across North America.
 A strong foundation in nutrition and exercise is essential. But even with perfect consistency, your body eventually reaches a limit. Myth #4: You Can Get the Same Results From Diet and Training Alone
A strong foundation in nutrition and exercise is essential. But even with perfect consistency, your body eventually reaches a limit.
The Truth:
Once progress slows, smart supplementation can help. Certain compounds improve recovery, stimulate muscle repair, and promote fat metabolism in ways that training alone cannot. For example, MK-677 — mentioned earlier — is often used to support deep sleep, better recovery, and improved muscle fullness, especially in experienced lifters or during calorie deficits.
When paired with a solid plan, these tools can help you train harder, recover faster, and see results more quickly.
Myth #5: Muscle-Building Supplements Are Addictive or Dangerous
The fear around supplements often stems from extreme cases involving unregulated or misused products.
The Truth:
Responsible use, correct dosing, and cycling make all the difference. Many well-researched compounds do not cause addiction or hormonal crashes when used as recommended. Most users follow a short cycle and then take a break to let the body reset.
Choosing products that include usage instructions and safety information helps users stay on track and make informed choices.
 Gender and age are not factors that keep people away from muscle building. Final Thoughts
Supplements are not a replacement for effort — they’re a way to get more out of the work you already do.
The key is education and quality. Look for clean, trusted options that support muscle growth, fat loss, recovery, and overall well-being.
Forget the myths. Trust the science. And make sure you’re choosing supplements that support your goals without compromising your health.
 By Sidsel Nørgaard
May 9th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Across Burlington, the movement towards tobacco-free alternatives is reshaping community health initiatives. Residents are increasingly exploring options like nicotine pouches, aligning with local regulations that support public well-being. This shift highlights both the evolving preferences of individuals and the community’s commitment to healthier living.
The preference for tobacco-free products is gaining momentum, driven by awareness of health benefits and regulatory changes. As residents seek out alternatives to traditional smoking, platforms like gotpouches.com offer access to nicotine pouches and other tobacco-free options. These changes are impacting personal choices and contributing to broader public health goals within the community.
Local regulations and tobacco-free products
Municipal bylaws are playing a crucial role in shaping the availability and use of tobacco-free products within the community. These regulations encourage healthier lifestyles by limiting the use of traditional tobacco products, thus promoting alternatives that pose fewer health risks. Understanding these bylaws is essential for residents who wish to transition away from smoking towards safer options.
The enforcement of these regulations has facilitated an environment where tobacco-free choices are more accessible than ever before. This accessibility ensures that individuals seeking to quit smoking can easily find suitable alternatives that comply with local laws. Moreover, it underscores the importance of being informed about these regulations to make educated decisions about personal health.
For those interested in exploring these alternatives, it is important to recognize how these policies reflect a broader commitment to public health. By reducing barriers to access and promoting awareness, local authorities are actively supporting the community in making healthier lifestyle choices. This dynamic illustrates a proactive approach to reducing smoking-related health issues.
Impact on community health
 Decreasing secondhand smoke exposure a major social benefit. The rise in popularity of tobacco-free products aligns with ongoing community health initiatives aimed at reducing smoking rates and improving public well-being. Nicotine pouches, for instance, present a viable alternative for those looking to reduce their dependence on traditional cigarettes. They offer a smokeless option that mitigates exposure to harmful substances typically associated with tobacco smoke.
This transition is beneficial not only for individual users but also for the larger community by decreasing secondhand smoke exposure. As more residents opt for these alternatives, there is potential for significant improvements in overall public health outcomes. The shift towards nicotine pouches and similar products represents a collective step forward in achieving healthier communities.
The benefits extend beyond physical health, as they contribute to economic advantages by potentially reducing healthcare costs associated with treating smoking-related illnesses. Embracing these alternatives supports a healthier population, which is an essential component of sustainable community development strategies.
Accessing resources
Accessing reliable sources for tobacco-free products is paramount for those considering a switch from traditional smoking methods. Online retailers play a significant role in this regard, offering convenient access to nicotine pouches and other alternatives. By ensuring that residents have easy access to these resources, communities can better support individuals’ efforts to make healthier choices.
Platforms such as gotpouches.com provide an array of options tailored to varying preferences, helping residents navigate their journey towards a tobacco-free lifestyle without compromising on quality or selection. These resources empower individuals with the information needed to make informed decisions about their health while adhering to local regulations.
As you explore these options, it is crucial to rely on trustworthy platforms that prioritize consumer safety and product integrity. This approach not only facilitates personal well-being but also reinforces communal efforts aimed at reducing tobacco use across the board.
Educational content
Understanding how nicotine pouches function is key for anyone curious about making the switch from traditional smoking. These pouches deliver nicotine without combustion, thereby eliminating harmful smoke inhalation risks. This feature makes them an attractive option for those seeking a safer way to satisfy nicotine cravings.
For individuals contemplating this transition, guidance on choosing suitable products can be invaluable. Information available through reputable websites aids consumers in making decisions that align with their specific needs and preferences. By doing so, you ensure that your journey towards a smoke-free life is both informed and effective.
The availability of educational resources enhances your ability to discern which products best suit your lifestyle and health goals. Leveraging such information promotes informed decision-making while supporting broader public health objectives within your community.
 By Staff
May 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
On April 29, Halton Region Public Health was made aware of a confirmed case of measles that has led to potential exposures in Halton on April 26 and 27.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads easily through the air. Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads easily through the air.
Individuals may have been exposed to the measles virus at the following locations on the dates listed below:
Halton Family Health Centre (whole building), 2951 Walkers Line Unit B, Burlington, on Saturday, April 26 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Halton Medix Clinic Milton, 100 Bronte St. S Unit 2, Milton, on Sunday, April 27 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Visitors to these locations during the times noted should:
- Check your immunization records to make sure you and any people who accompanied you have up-to-date measles vaccinations (two doses are recommended for anyone born on or after January 1, 1970). Your immunization record (yellow card) or your doctor can provide this information.
- Those who are not immune, infants under one year of age, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems can get very ill with measles. They should immediately contact Halton Region Public Health or their health care professional for further assessment.
- If you think you may have measles and need to see a doctor, you must call ahead to the doctor’s office, walk-in clinic, or emergency department. This will allow health care staff to take the necessary precautions to reduce the risk of infection and protect others visiting the office, clinic, or hospital.
- Watch for symptoms of measles for 21 days after exposure.
Symptoms can appear 7 to 21 days after contact with someone with the measles virus. Measles symptoms may include:
- fever
- cough
- runny nose
- red eyes
- sleepiness
- irritability
- small, white spots on the inside of the mouth (Koplik Spots)
- a red blotchy rash that first starts on the face and spreads down the body, arms, and legs (this rash can last 4 to 7 days)
“Measles is a serious and highly contagious illness, but it is preventable with vaccination,” said Dr. Deepika Lobo, Medical Officer of Health for Halton Region. “We are reminding residents who may have been exposed to review their immunization records and monitor for symptoms. Vaccination remains the best protection, and we urge all residents, especially families with young children, to ensure their immunizations are current.”
By Stephen Atcheler
April 10th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
As of 2025, dating apps have over 360 million users around the world. This figure includes platforms of all types, ranging from casual swiping apps to those focused on building long-term connections. Despite a slight decrease in downloads, usage remains high. Tinder, for example, saw $1.91 billion in earnings during 2023, growing nearly 7% from the year before. Match Group alone accounted for $3.5 billion of the total $6.18 billion market revenue in 2024.
 There are around 25 million people using data apps each month. The market continues to grow. By 2030, estimates place industry revenue at over $17 billion. This comes with an expected increase in both paid users and geographic reach. Users are also spending more, with around 25 million paying for features each month.
What’s Working—and Why
Dating apps work for many users. In a 2021 report from The Knot, one out of every four engaged couples met online. Apps like Hinge are gaining more attention for targeting users looking for lasting connections instead of casual flings.
About 57% of online daters report having a good time on these apps overall. Women and men approach the apps differently, and this shapes how matches are formed. For example, users often favor traits like emotional availability and open communication.
Still, the increasing number of options can be hard to manage. Studies describe a phenomenon called the paradox of choice—more options can actually lead to less satisfaction. Users, especially women, have also set higher filters, preferring partners aligned with their values.
Picking Your Path: Relationship Types Aren’t One-Size-Fits-All
Dating app users now make more specific choices about what kind of relationships they want. Some seek marriage, others prefer casual dating, while many explore grey areas in between. Apps like Hinge focus on long-term commitment, while others support different lifestyles or connections based on goals or compatibility. Secret Benefits is one of several platforms contributing to this range of choices, supporting matches based on clarity and purpose.
This flexibility means users can match with those who share not only similar interests but also aligned timelines or relationship expectations. It’s less about fitting into old patterns and more about choosing what works personally.
New Trends in the Mix
2025 is seeing more users taking a direct approach. This is called “Loud Looking.” About 70% of singles using dating apps now declare their intentions early. They list clear relationship goals, expectations, and dealbreakers upfront.
Interest-based dating is also becoming common. Some platforms now form micro-communities around shared hobbies or beliefs. These changes are especially noticeable among younger age groups, including users under 30.
These trends peak during certain times of the year. One of the busiest days for dating apps is “Dating Sunday,” which falls on the first Sunday in January. For example, on Tinder, user likes rise by 15% on this day. Hinge reports nearly 30% more messages sent compared to regular Sundays.
How AI Is Changing the Apps
More apps are now using artificial intelligence to suggest better matches. This includes analyzing behaviors, profiles, and chat patterns. Apps using AI now show a 14% increase in user engagement, likely due to more relevant suggestions and fewer unwanted messages.
 There are thousands of fake profiles out there – very painful for people who get sucked in. AI tools also weed out fake accounts and detect harmful behavior. Some apps use AI chat assistants that suggest conversation starters to ease first interactions.
Other tools, like real-time translation, help users from different countries talk more smoothly. As more countries gain online access, especially across Asia and Africa, this kind of technology is helping expand these platforms globally.
Unmet Needs and Lingering Problems
Despite more users and better algorithms, there are still problems. Safety is a top concern. Less than half of U.S. adults think online dating is safe. Many users, especially younger women, report receiving unwanted messages.
Men also face obstacles, though researchers point to a different problem—a gap in basic relationship skills. Psychologist Greg Matos noted that many men lack comfort with emotional communication, making it harder for them to form satisfying connections.
Data shows that a high number of young and middle-aged men are frequently lonely, even when using dating apps. Longer stretches of being single are not uncommon.
Use on the Ground
 Many students eventually marry someone they went to college or university with. On college campuses, apps are used both casually and for serious dating. Users often set clear expectations before meeting in person, which makes the process more manageable. This design helps reduce confusion and potential discomfort about relationship intent.
Some apps even let users sort matches based on religious or political preference, what kind of relationship they want, or how far away someone lives. In smaller towns, this works well for finding a match without meeting by chance.
Culture and Influence
Terms like “swipe left” are now part of common speech. Platforms like Tinder turned the action of dating into a simple back-and-forth process. But not all apps work the same way. Grindr, for example, helps users build connections based on very specific identity filters and dating preferences.
Influencers and dating coaches also play a role. Many use platforms like YouTube or TikTok to show what works and what doesn’t. Some hold live sessions or breakdowns of how to approach certain types of matches, which users watch to improve.
Conclusion
Dating apps give more options than ever, but more choice doesn’t always mean more success. There are useful tools, new trends, and fast changes. But there are also trade-offs. When used thoughtfully, these apps help users find others with similar goals, timelines, and communication styles.
 By Staff
April 8th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Health officials in three Ontario hotspots for measles are focusing on communication and vaccination to help get the outbreaks under control.
Public Health Ontario on Thursday reported 89 new cases of measles since March 26, bringing the province’s total of confirmed and probable cases this year to 655. They have been linked to a travel-related case in New Brunswick.
“The sharp increase… is due to continued exposures and transmission among individuals who have not been immunized,” the report’s authors wrote.
In the Southwestern Public Health region — which includes the communities of St. Thomas, Woodstock as well as Elgin and Oxford counties — there are 43 new cases, the largest increase in the province for the most recent reporting period.
Measles is “one of the
 A severe case of measles. most contagious illnesses globally, and currently the most effective way to safely prevent measles is through vaccination,” said Dr. Ninh Tran, the region’s medical officer of health.
Tran’s team is focusing on offering vaccinations to those who are susceptible to contracting the disease. People who’ve never had measles or the vaccine, or only one dose of it, are considered susceptible.
Two doses of the vaccine prevents infection, public health officials say. (
“Unlike the flu or COVID vaccine, which is mainly to lessen the severity of an infection, two doses of measles-containing vaccine prevents the infection altogether,” Tran said.
The measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine that contains a weakened version of the measles virus to generate strong, lifelong immunity without causing serious disease in people with healthy immune systems, officials say.
 The number of cases is generally believed to be underestimated, given that not everyone with measles seeks testing or medical care.
Meanwhile, in the neighbouring Grand Erie Public Health region — which includes Brantford and largely rural communities to the south — officials ran a vaccination clinic this week above a hockey arena in Caledonia.
Rachel Vaarkamp brought her five-year-old, Tyse, to get the measles shot.
“We don’t have a family doctor right now and realized that it was time to [get] his vaccinations and then seeing there’s been measles cases in the area, wanted to get it done for him,” Vaarkamp said.
The NDP Health critic said there is a rise in vaccine hesitancy in recent years, the province must engage family physicians to understand the barriers to vaccination their patients experience. Years of underfunding in public health has resulted in kids falling behind on vaccinations. We must ensure that family doctors and nurses have the support needed to ramp up vaccination efforts in their clinics.
By Staff
April 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The McMaster Children’s Hospital set out the rules for people who think they might have measles.
Here is the drill – pay attention.
Measles is very contagious and is easily spread in the air. If you or your child has measles symptoms or is at the hospital for measles testing, you and your child will be put in a room by yourself with controlled airflow or with a special machine called a HEPA Filter. This is to prevent the spread of measles and protect other people. We are working very hard to stop the spread of measles.
 Before your visit
If you are coming to the hospital and you think your child has measles or has been around another person with measles, you must contact us first:
- If you or your child has a Clinic appointment, call your clinic before coming for the appointment.
- You and/or your child may need to be tested for measles. We will also prepare a space for your appointment.
- If you come by ambulance, tell the paramedics.
- If you come to the Emergency Department on your own, a vaccinated adult should enter the hospital ALONE to tell the registration staff that someone who may have measles is coming in.
– or –
Call us before you come. We will meet you outside the doors and bring you to a room.
Call 905-521-5020 and tell them that you or your child might have measles
During your visit
- You and your child must stay in your room with the door closed.
- Some rooms need a HEPA filter. This is called airborne isolation.
- If you need to go out for tests or the bathroom, the staff will help you with this.
- Everyone entering the room will wear gowns, gloves, masks and eye protection.
- We may need to limit the number of visitors.
Leaving the hospital
- We will help you exit the hospital through the shortest and safest route. Please wait until we can help you.
- We will have a space for you to sit if you are waiting for a ride. Do not sit in the waiting areas or come back in the hospital to wait.
- After you leave the hospital, DO NOT come back into the hospital, café, cafeteria or pharmacy unless you need emergency care.
- If you need to come back in, call (905)521-5020.
Ut sounds a little draconian – there are good reasons for being so strict.
While we haven’t heard anything from Joseph Brant Hospital – they will (at least we hope so be just as strict.-
 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 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.
 By Staff
March 14th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Today, Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health, issued the following statement:
“Over the last several weeks, we have seen the number of new measles cases rise to 173 bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Ontario to 350 since 2024, including 31 hospitalizations. This is the most measles cases Ontario has seen in over a decade. It is critical we work together to mitigate further spread of this vaccine-preventable disease.
Over 96 per cent of cases in Ontario are among individuals who are unimmunized, or have unknown immunization status, and were exposed in their community or while travelling. A majority of Ontario’s cases are concentrated in southwestern Ontario among unvaccinated people.
 Vaccination is the most effective way to limit the spread of measles. Vaccination is the most effective way to limit the spread of measles and protect yourself and your loved ones. The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine has been in use for more than 50 years and is proven to be one of the safest and most effective vaccines available. All Ontarians should ensure themselves, and their children, are up to date on their vaccinations. Children who are fully immunized with two doses of the measles vaccine are nearly 100 per cent protected, with one dose estimated to be up to 95 per cent protective.
As part of routine vaccination schedules, children should receive two doses of the measles vaccine, their first at 12 months and a second when they are between four to six years old. If you are not sure about your immunization status, please contact your health care provider or your local public health unit.
 Measles spreads easily among those who aren’t vaccinated and can lead to serious health issues including pneumonia, respiratory failure, swelling of the brain, and in rare cases, death. Measles spreads easily among those who aren’t vaccinated and can lead to serious health issues including pneumonia, respiratory failure, swelling of the brain, and in rare cases, death. If you think you or a family member has been exposed to measles, please contact your health care provider immediately. Before any visit, be sure to call ahead to let them know that you are coming and that you suspect that you may have measles so appropriate precautions can be taken.
We will continue to work alongside our public health partners to respond to measles and to ensure the health and safety of communities across the province.
 By Staff
February 24th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 Indeed, whoever it is did make it through a cold cold night. The Sleepless For Our Community event, that’s the evening people sleep in their cars overnight to raise funds for those in our community who are experiencing poverty-related challenges. The funds raised will directly support programs that provide essential services such as housing support, food security, mental health resources, and job training to individuals and families in need.
Continue reading Sleeping in cars overnight on one of the coldest days of the year raised $335,000 for United Way
 By Staff
February 24th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Ontario’s health care crisis is deepening at a time when the province already has the fewest hospital beds per capita in the country and the lowest per capita health care funding of any province.
The province has the fewest hospital staff per patient in Canada. As a result of being funded under their operating costs, Ontario hospitals have a combined deficit of over $800 million this year.
A health care system in crisis at a time when Premier Doug Ford sent $200 cheques to almost every person in the province.
Hospital workers, health care advocates, and community supporters will make a statement outside St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto opposing the elimination of at least 750 positions—cuts at a hospital that is already understaffed – that will increase patient wait times and affect the quality of care.
 1,850 are on stretchers at hospitals every single day “These job cuts will have a devastating impact,” said Michael Hurley, president of the Ontario Council of Hospital Unions (OCHU). “This hospital plays a vital role in Toronto, and it is downsizing significantly at a time when demand for its services is surging. The Ford government’s continued underfunding is pushing Ontario’s hospitals past the breaking point, and the impact can be measured in the suffering of patients and those who love them.”
A health care system in crisis.
Public opinion polls consistently rank health care as the No. 1 issue for Ontarians, yet the government continues to cut and privatize essential services.
“The hospital funding policy of the Ford government is letting down communities across the province,” said Sharon Richer, secretary-treasurer of OCHU. “250,000 people are on surgical wait lists.1,850 are on stretchers at hospitals every single day. ERs are closing routinely.”
Since taking office, the Ford government’s increases to hospital funding have not kept pace with inflation, population growth, ageing, or the rising cost of drugs and medical technologies.
 The fear amongst many is that the Premier is building a private health care system rather than fund the existing public system. “This government can imagine funding a $100 billion tunnel that no one has asked for, but it refuses to fund the actual costs of a vital service like our hospitals,” says Hurley. “We need to talk about a plan to staff up our hospitals, to get patients on wait lists into surgeries, to get patients off hallway stretchers into beds and to meet the demands of an aging and growing population. We want to have that conversation urgently.”
Health care advocates warn that these layoffs are part of a broader push to privatize more services, creating a two-tier system where only those who can afford to pay get timely care.
By Staff
February 20th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
While Winter storms continue to create havoc across the country, including the city of Burlington, the need for keeping blood products at optimal levels is important.
The heavy snowfall, ice storms and extreme cold have resulted in hundreds of cancelled donation appointments. During storms, many people offer acts of kindness, such as helping their neighbours clear snow, shoveling out cars or providing warm spaces for those in need. Donating blood is another way people can give back to their community.
 These donours are well past the 100 mark. Kudos to them. Open appointments to donate are available in Burlington at 1250 Brant Street.
Eligible donors are asked to book at their earliest convenience — and consider inviting a new donor to join you. If you’ve never donated before, now is the time to join a community of people committed to saving lives. Every day this winter, we need 450 new donors across Canada to help fuel Canada’s Lifeline. Beat the winter blahs and get Canada’s blood pumping!
Help people right here in your community and across Canada. Book now on blood.ca, use the GiveBlood app or call 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888-236-6283).
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