 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.
 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.
 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.
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
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
 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.
 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.
 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.”
By Gazette Staff
March 11,2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Toronto Star reports that NDP MP Lori Idlout is crossing the floor to Mark Carney’s Liberals, leaving them two seats shy of forming a majority.
With three by-elections scheduled for April 13, including in two Liberal strongholds in Toronto, the Nunavut MP’s defection could set up a majority for the Carney government.
 NDP MP Lori Idlout crosses the floor of the House of Commons to become a Mark Carney Liberal. Idlout’s decision was announced late Tuesday night by interim NDP leader Don Davies, who called on her to “put the decision to voters.”
“We’re very disappointed that Lori Idlout has decided to join the Liberal caucus,” Davies said in a statement.
“The position of the New Democrats on floor crossing is long-standing and clear. We believe that when someone rejects the decision of their electors and wants to join another party, they should put that decision to their voters.”
In a democracy, something as important as the choice of party representation in Parliament must always remain with our constituents. We believe that should happen here.”
Idlout, who beat a Liberal opponent by just 41 votes in last year’s election, has previously said she was being courted by the Liberals but indicated she would not cross the floor.
Last Thursday, she spoke in support of NDP leadership contender Avi Lewis at a more-than-800-person Ottawa rally.
She is the fourth MP to cross the floor to the Liberals after the dramatic defections of former Conservatives Chris d’Entremont, Michael Ma and Matt Jeneroux.
 By Gazette Staff
March 10th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
This article has been revised
The National Theatre School DramaFest formerly known as the Sears Drama Festival, has been running for 80 years as of 2026. Founded in 1946, it is a long-standing Ontario-based youth theatre festival that has been presented by the National Theatre School of Canada since 2017
Thousands of careers started on those stages.
 Zainab Majid, Michelle Stern, August Frade Two Burlington High Schools will take part in the Western Regional Showcase at the Gravenhurst Opera House, the week of April 20, 2026.
From March 4th to March 7th Students from Halton High Schools competed in the first round of performances.
The following schools participated.
Nelson High School, Disconnected
M.M. Robinson High School, No Cause for Concern
Milton District High School, Rory and Sonny
White Oaks Secondary School, Still Perfectly Fine
St. Ignatius of Loyola Secondary School, How to Get Away with a Murder Mystery
T.A. Blakelock High School, 20 Neo-Futurist Plays from Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind
Assumption Catholic Secondary School, Fortress
Burlington Central High School, The 146 Point Flame
McLachlan College, You’re Only
Craig Kielburger Secondary School, Crime and E-punishment
Advancing to Regionals (Outstanding Production Winners)
 Cast and crew of the Nelson High School students who produced Disconnected They will go on to the South Regional Showcase in Hamilton in April. These three outstanding production winners, two from Burlington, advance to the Western Regional Showcase
- Nelson High School for their production of Disconnected.
- Burlington Central High School for their production of The 146 Point Flame.
- Milton District High School (Host school) for their production of Rory and Sonny.
The winners of the Ontario competition will compete nationally with schools from three other provinces.
By Pepper Parr
March 11, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
When Leah Logan spoke to Council a week or so ago, she said Indwell wanted to provide affordable housing to people who lived in Burlington.
 Stopping place for quite a few people. The move what they have in shopping carts to a location that is safe for them. She perhaps didn’t know that there were homeless people living just over a block away under a bridge from where they expect to build affordable homes..
 Burlington is home for them – they just didn’t have homes. Burlington was home for them – they just didn’t have homes.
When the Gazette found these people, we got a look at where they live and the conditions they had to cope with.
We got to speak to a couple who had been living rough for a couple of years.
The idea that a home might become available to them in a year or more (Indwell hopes to have their building permit in December of this year, astounded them.
 Home is under a bridge in a tent. “What do we have to do to get a real home they asked.
I said I would keep in touch with them – the problem is they didn’t have cell phones, they don’t have access to internet services.
The just lived under a bridge.
 By Gazette Staff
March 11th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
The Roseland Community Organization will be hosting a Speaker Event on March 24th.
Cheryl Stepan, editor-in-chief of the Hamilton Spectator and Malcom Kirk, President of the Canadian Press will be in conversation with Gerry Arnold, editor-in-chief of the Canadian Press and former chief parliamentary correspondent.
They will be discussing the many issues facing Canadian legacy news organizations – the disappearance of local news outlets, what is true and reliable, the inroads made by social media, the increasing role of AI, the proliferation of news organizations, not all trustworthy, the role of government in supporting the legacy news organizations and local press.
By Pepper Parr
March 10th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
City Council took two big steps to get to the point where space will become available on Waterdown Road just north of Plains Road for affordable housing that will be provided by Indwell on land the city bought for $7 million and has now expressed its intent to lease that land to Indwell who will in the fullness of time construct a building that will have space for up to 74 people.
The debate was limited in that Councillor Galbraith was unable to participate due to a conflict of interest directly across the road from the planned development. Galbraith understands business better than the other Council members; his comments and questions would have been more than useful.
 Leah Logan, Regional Director with Sylvia Harris, Senior Development Manager, Flourish. The Indwell people have been before Council several times in the last month.
Social housing is managed by the Region. Their Hatch program BETTER HERE budgets for the purchase of housing and for the building os new housing that can be made available t o people who cannot afford market rate accommodation.
 Indwell is the largest organization providing very affordable accommodation, along with the services some families need to get themselves to the point where they can become productive members of the community.
Indwell has been operational for over 50 years, founded in 1970 in Hamilton, Ontario, as a Christian charity focused on providing support for adults with mental health disabilities moving from institutions to community settings. It began with a group of Christians creating a group home called The Homestead. In 2000, the model shifted from residential care to providing permanent independent apartments with support services.
When they were explaining to Council what they do they made a point of saying they expected to provide accommodation for Burlington residents who are homeless.
They may not have been fully aware of just how many homeless people there are in the immediate area they plan to build.
 A community of homeless people find places that are out of sight where they can set up. Indwell is a Christian organization that provides not just accommodation but services some of the homeless might need. Putting a life back together if you have lived “rough” is not easy.
 By Pepper Parr
March 10th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
City Communications released the following:
At its March 10, 2026 meeting, Council considered confidential report LLS-20-26 from City Legal regarding the public disclosure of information that was subject to solicitor-client privilege.
 Blake Hurley: Commissioner of Legal and Legislative Services Following that review, Council accepted City Legal’s recommendation to waive solicitor-client privilege over limited information related to Council’s authorization of staff to negotiate the acquisition of the remaining Millcroft Golf Course lands, excluding those already approved for redevelopment by the Ontario Land Tribunal, subject to the final approval of Council.
The information was made public by Councillor Bentivegna and subsequently, as part of a joint statement, by Councillor Bentivegna and Mayor Meed Ward, based on the advice received, thatat the time from the CAO, that it could be disclosed. Once it was determined by the Commissioner of Legal and Legislative Services that there had been a breach of solicitor-client privilege, steps were taken to remove the information from social media and the two Members of Council apologized for their inadvertent error. Council accepted that apology.
Does this mean that the complaint filed with the City Integrity Commissioner is now null and void?
Was this decision by Council in a closed session, made because neither member of Council, Meed Ward or Bentivegna, did not want to be going into an election with an Integrity Commissioner decision tat was not in their favour?
Council’s waiver applies only to the specific information that had already been disclosed publicly, namely:
- that Council authorized the CAO to negotiate the acquisition of the remaining Millcroft Golf Course lands and to report back to Council for further instructions should the owner be willing to sell at the offered price;
- that the Chief Administrative Officer contacted the owner to inquire about a potential City purchase of all or part of those lands for $15 million, a sum approximately three times the amount the golf course was purchased for in 2020, prior to residential use being permitted on the lands;
- that the owner subsequently advised the City that it was not interested in selling the remaining lands to the City at that price.
All other aspects of this matter remain confidential and subject to solicitor-client privilege.
By Gazette Staff
March 10th, 2-026
BURLINGTON, ON
 Councillor Kearns was having a great time. Last Sunday, the Burlington Chapter of the Special Olympics held a polar plunge to raise funds.
The turnout wasn’t huge, and it wasn’t all that cold – but they pulled it off.
The award for the best photo op this year goes to Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns who seemed to be having a great time doing a Polar Plunge.
Special Olympics Ontario, of which Burlington is a part, provides sport opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. As a grass-roots organization, Special Olympics relies on volunteers at all levels of the movement to ensure that every athlete is offered a quality sports training and competition experience. Our athletes look to our volunteers for inspiration, guidance and coaching. Over the past 50 years Special Olympics has grown from a modest program serving local athletes, to becoming the world’s largest movement dedicated to promoting respect, acceptance, inclusion and human dignity for people with intellectual disabilities through sport.
 It wasn’t a huge crowd, but it was a hearty one. Mayor Meed Ward decided to attend in a supporting role. She is on the left side of the photograph.
By Roman Suslo
March 11th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
 Player checks the betting market change
Not everyone has access to the same data at the same moment. This creates a disparity in how it impacts the various betting markets and determines what price you obtain. Bettors will use early indicators to determine how they will bet long before the larger audience becomes aware of these events. To illustrate how a large number of customers have access to 1 x bet Republic of Ireland betting platform, such as. That access points vary greatly from one population to another in terms of time and audience.
Uneven access creates early movement
Participants in betting scenarios will not always share equivalent insight about the game at the same time. Some people will have advance knowledge of lineups being leaked, tactical changes being indicated, or player information becoming available.
Information asymmetry can arise when:
This leads to a small group making an immediate reaction that will affect the market before a great deal of time has elapsed, which will then influence the direction of early market prices.
Within registration processes, certain platforms also allow users to enter the promocode 1x_3831408 to increase the maximum welcome deposit bonus. Bonus size and wagering conditions vary depending on the registration country, so reviewing the official terms before making the first deposit remains essential.
Early reactions shape odds pathways
Layers exist in how betting markets react. First movers will pick up on information indicated through changes in behaviour, and move quickly. Moving first causes small shifts in the market, and only later does general public participation happen.
The typical sequence for how the market will react is:
- A small number of people pick up on new information
- First bets are made in the market, causing odds to start to shift slightly
- Other bettors begin betting based on the visible changes in adjustments
 There is a big difference between expected outcomes rather than confirmed facts. How asymmetry affects prediction stability
Data gaps often do not enhance precision, but they can add to volatility instead. Markets may do the following things as a result of early betting based on partial information. They might overreact based on a few updates, misprice an item or result temporarily, and then correct themselves once a broader base of information becomes available. With all of this activity and uncertainty going on with pricing, all prices will temporarily reflect expected outcomes rather than confirmed facts.
Comparing market responses
The table shows how markets may behave under different information conditions.
| Information Access Level |
Early Odds Shift |
Stability Before Match |
Late Correction Risk |
| Equal access |
Minimal |
High |
Low |
| Partial asymmetry |
Noticeable |
Moderate |
Medium |
| Strong asymmetry |
Rapid |
Low |
High |
Behavioural impact on betting patterns
When there is an unequal distribution of information within markets, it leads to behaviour changes of market participants. A trader may place a bet earlier than another trader if he believes he has advanced knowledge of a future price movement, while the other trader will prefer to wait until he has been confirmed, making his bet.
This creates two groups of traders who behave differently – early placing of bets based on information received, and placing bets after receiving confirmation of information they have received. The interaction between the two groups creates a layered price path rather than a single linear price movement.
Why timing matters more than volume
Betting volume has a marked influence on the market. However, time plays an equally significant role. A small wager placed before an important announcement may have more of an impact on the odds than larger wagers placed after that announcement. This will happen because earlier bets will change the baseline price of a particular wager and will subsequently adjust all other prices relative to this new base. In this way, asymmetry creates a different starting point for the reaction to the market.
Long-term structural effect
 Traders refine their pricing models to account for the different timing of early versus later responses. Often, certain events will spread through small groups prior to receiving any official confirmation. Odds to be adjusted before a public announcement. Thus, early price adjustments are not always mere noise but rather can mark the beginning of a larger adjustment within the overall betting marketplace.
As these types of dynamics continue to occur, betting companies and traders refine their pricing models to account for the different timing of early versus later responses. Information asymmetry will continue to be a feature of the structure of today’s betting marketplace as compared to traditional betting markets in which information asymmetry was comparatively rare.
By Gazette Staff
March 8th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
 Natalie Haynes, renowned for her highly varied and accomplished career as journalist, critic, comedian, broadcaster, historian and novelist, will be at the Different Drummer bookstore on March 15th to talk about her book:
Sunday, March 15, 1:00pm – 2:00pm Central Library Centennial Hall
Admission is free–
 By Gazette Staff
March 9th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
 A spring runoff. Conservation Halton advises that the Flood Watch issued on March 6, 2026 has been extended. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) Surface Water Monitoring Centre (SWMC) are forecasting 20-40 mm of precipitation starting late Tuesday and continuing into Wednesday. Warm air temperatures in the double digits through Wednesday will continue melting the significantly diminished snowpack across the watershed, with snow now isolated to sheltered areas. Saturated and any remaining frozen ground conditions will increase the amount of water runoff. High water levels in creeks and streams within our jurisdiction are expected again. Existing ice cover on watercourses has broken up and ice jamming is no longer considered a risk.
Areas of localized flooding in urban areas are possible. Municipalities, emergency services, and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should be on alert. Regular inspection and removal of debris at culverts and drainage inlets is recommended.
All watercourses and ice-covered water bodies should be considered dangerous during this time. Conservation Halton is asking all residents to stay away from watercourses, shorelines and structures such as bridges, culverts, dams, and break walls. Cold water temperatures combined with high water levels, fast flowing water, and slippery conditions along stream banks and shorelines make these locations extremely dangerous. Please alert children in your care of these imminent dangers.
Conservation Halton will continue to monitor weather forecasts and watershed conditions and will issue an update to this Flood Watch message as conditions warrant. This Flood Watch message will be in effect through Thursday March 12, 2026 and will either be updated or terminated.
 Tom Parkin
March 10th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Destroying major pieces of the global energy supply system will hurt many, benefit a very few.
From under $60 earlier this year, on Monday morning oil prices surged past $120. The Dow Jones Industrial Index, at a high of over 51,000 points just one month ago, plummeted to 46,600, a loss of about nine per cent.
But later in the morning came news G7 nations may release oil reserves to support supply and dampen inflation. And in the afternoon came comments from U.S. President Trump suggested him might abandon his war.
 Damage at the eight-day point in the war in Iran As horrific images of the eight day war circulated, polls sagged and bad economic news piled up, Trump told CBS News his war “is very complete,” despite only a few days ago saying it would take at least four weeks.
By day’s end, oil was below $85 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average finished slightly up.
Trump war threatens Canadian inflation, GDP, jobs
Whether war continues or ends early, there has been massive damage to the world’s energy supply system. And the cost to Canadians from those cheering-on Trump and his war has been made clear, even through the thickest skulls.
Pump prices are already up across Canada. And those higher costs will work their way into almost everything Canadians need. That’s the first punch.
But Bank of Canada Deputy Governor Sharon Kozicki late last week cautioned that supply shocks can create inflation that, even in a weak economy, the Bank may respond to with interest rates hikes.
Such hikes would land a second punch to Canadians on affordability, cutting consumer spending, business investment, economic growth and jobs.
Trump’s economic damage is already being reflected in U.S. central bank projections. Friday, the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta’s GDP “nowcast” dramatically slumped to 2.1 per cent, down from 3.2 per cent just days before. The Bank is part of the Federal Reserve System, backing and servicing banks in the United States’ Southeast states.
A very select few will benefit very well
But oil companies with production intact are suddenly in a sellers’ market from which they can extract windfall profits. That windfall will be paid from the wallets of workers and the bank accounts of businesses that employ them.
The Toronto Stock Exchange energy index, which includes key companies such as Canadian Natural Resources Limited, Cenovus, Imperial Oil and Teck Resources, gained ground in the morning as the economic gloom set in, then fell on the comments from Trump and the G7.
An analysis by economist Isabella Weber found that after the 2022 oil price spike, 50.4 per cent of the $377 billion in U.S. windfall profits flowed to wealthiest one per cent.
Political fall-out in Canada?
As the economic damage of the war becomes clearer, there may be risks and opportunities for Canadian political parties.
 If the Iranian war drives down support for Trump far enough it could also release him from the MAGA monkeys on his back. Polls show about two-thirds of Conservative supporters back the war. But realizations about the economic pain from war may shrink that support, further isolating Poilievre. But, if it drives down support for Trump far enough it could also release him from the MAGA monkeys on his back. If he wants them removed.
Interim NDP leader Don Davies, speaking on the Left East to West podcast released Monday, argued PM’s confused backing of Trump was now “a step too far” for many centre to left voters. Polls show Carney’s support is shared by less than 20 per cent of Liberal voters and under 10 per cent of NDP voters.
If anyone should have foreseen the economic damage that Trump’s war was going to inflict on working class Canadians it ought to have been the former central bank governor. Or maybe he did and just followed the path of least resistance.
 By Trevor Hurry
March 10th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Sports fans see betting odds almost everywhere. Pregame shows mention them, sports apps display them beside matchups, and online conversations often focus on favorites. Known as sportsbook lines, these numbers are now a regular part of game previews and discussions.
Beyond wagering, sportsbook lines offer a quick snapshot of how the broader market views a matchup. A spread, total, or moneyline can hint at expected scoring pace, team momentum, and competitive balance, helping fans see the story behind a game before it even begins.
How Sportsbook Lines Are Created
Behind every sportsbook line is a blend of data analysis, statistical modeling, and the experience of professional oddsmakers. Setting those numbers involves far more than predicting which team might win.
Before releasing an opening line, analysts evaluate many factors, including historical performance, recent team form, player availability, and scheduling dynamics. Advanced models process thousands of data points to estimate the likelihood of different outcomes.
A small group of sportsbooks typically posts the first “opening line” to establish an early benchmark for the betting market. Once it appears, other sportsbooks adjust their numbers to stay aligned with the broader market while keeping odds competitive.
Many fans explore sportsbook lines to see how bookmakers translate team statistics and matchup context into betting markets. Each line also includes a built-in commission, known as the vigorish or “vig,” which helps sportsbooks maintain balanced and sustainable markets.
Reading Sportsbook Lines as a Snapshot of the Game
Sportsbook lines offer a concise summary of a matchup between two teams or competitors, based on oddsmakers’ expectations and early market activity. Fans often glance at them to gauge how competitive a game might be before the first whistle.
Three common types of lines help tell that story:
- Point spreads indicate the perceived gap between teams. A favorite listed at -7 suggests a projected advantage of roughly one touchdown,
- Totals (Over/Under) estimate how many points both teams might combine to score. A higher total signals expectations of an offensive showcase,
- Moneyline odds represent the probability of each team winning outright.
These numbers appear simple at first glance, yet they condense large amounts of information into a single figure. For sports fans who enjoy breaking down matchups, sportsbook lines act as a shorthand for the expected flow of a game.
 Sportsbook lines act as a shorthand for the expected flow of a game. Why Sportsbook Lines Move Throughout the Day
Once a sportsbook posts its opening line, the number rarely stays still. Lines react constantly to new information and market activity. In many cases, odds can shift several times within hours as new updates reach the market.
Several factors drive these changes.
- Betting activity: Heavy wagering on one side can push a line in the opposite direction to attract interest on the other side,
- Professional bettors: Sportsbooks often respond quickly to wagers from experienced bettors whose opinions carry weight in the market,
- Breaking news: Injury announcements, lineup adjustments, or late roster decisions can trigger immediate shifts,
- Weather forecasts: Outdoor games sometimes see their totals adjusted if wind, rain, or extreme temperatures are factored into the equation.
Fans often turn to analysis like FanDuel Research to understand why odds are shifting, from performance trends to injury updates. Line movement may unfold over days or change quickly when major news breaks before game time.
What Line Movement Reveals About Teams and Sentiment
Tracking line movement can reveal how the sports market interprets a matchup and responds to emerging information before game time. As odds shift, they often reflect new information, betting patterns, and changing expectations around a game.
Sometimes a popular team attracts most of the bets, yet the line barely changes. In those situations, sportsbooks may feel comfortable with the current number, showing that public enthusiasm alone does not always move the odds.
At other times, the opposite occurs. A majority of wagers land on one team while the line moves toward the other side. Analysts often call this reverse line movement, suggesting that influential bettors may prefer the less popular option.
The final odds before kickoff, known as the closing line, often represent the most refined projection after days of betting activity and news updates. Watching how sportsbook lines evolve leading up to the closing line gives fans a clearer view of shifting expectations before game time.
 Sportsbook lines now play a prominent role in how fans discuss games. Sportsbook Lines and the Modern Sports Conversation
Sportsbook lines now play a prominent role in how fans discuss games. Pregame shows reference spreads when evaluating contenders, while analysts often cite totals when debating whether a matchup could become a high-scoring thriller or a defensive battle.
For sports betting enthusiasts, tracking these numbers adds insight to matchups. Odds movement reflects news, performance trends, and market sentiment. Though simple at first glance, understanding how sportsbook lines form and shift helps fans see games more clearly.
 By Ray Rivers
March 9th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
“The Ford government’s proposed Bill 33 would allow the province to replace elected school board trustees with government-appointed supervisors whenever it determines it is in the “public interest”. The Minister of Education has further threatened to get rid of elected school board trustees entirely, prior to scheduled elections on October 26, 2026. (Elementary Teachers Ontario)
This is one time when I think the Doug Ford government is on the right track. The history of electing Ontario’s school board trustees dates back over 200 years. The rationale then was that, since trustees needed to make decisions about public taxation to fund schooling, they should be held accountable at the ballot box.
 One room school are a part of Ontario’s history. Things have changed. But that is no longer the case since education funding is mostly determined by the provincial Ministry of Education. School boards are still required to make local decisions, such as the provision and maintenance of physical facilities and choosing a principal but those are largely driven by the bureaucracy. The curriculum and so much else has been consolidated at Queen’s Park that the trustee is becoming a rubber stamp and an historical artifact.
In fact, most electors likely can’t even name their trustee. Voter turnout for municipal elections, as we know, is relatively low. Checking off a choice for trustee in the voter’s booth for most of us has become a guess, if a choice is made at all. For example, in recent school trustee elections in PEI just 1% of eligible provincial voters bothered to vote, which was down from the miserable 2% in the previous election. And PEI voters had even been offered the option of on-line voting.
 Four Halton District School Board trustees observing a community meeting. Despite some opposition to the idea of eliminating the elected trustees, including from teachers unions, the truth is that the vast majority of electors vote with their feet come election time. Holding elections for largely unimportant political roles doesn’t strengthen our democracy, it make a mockery of the concept.
And this is not just about cost savings. Though the roughly 650 positions elected in Ontario in 2022 received an annual honorarium of between $7,500 and $30,000 each, depending on the Board. Still, that would be money better spent on lowering class sizes, for example.
And one has to wonder why school boards have not already been brought under the umbrella of municipal councils. The value of integrating new schools into municipal development planning, for example, should be obvious to everyone.
Finally, since change is in the air for our provincial education system, isn’t it long past time that the Minister integrated the Catholic and public boards?
 Ray Rivers, a Gazette Contributing Editor, writes regularly applying his more than 25 years as a federal bureaucrat to his thinking. Rivers was once a candidate for provincial office in Burlington. He was the founder of the Burlington citizen committee on sustainability at a time when climate warming was a hotly debated subject. Ray has a post graduate degree in economics that he earned at the University of Ottawa. Tweet @rayzrivers
Background links:
Trustees – PEI 1% voting – School Board Data – Not Everyone Agrees –
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