 By Pepper Parr
January 25th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
City Council meets on Tuesday; another light agenda unless last-minute additions are made.
 Nothing about the FiFA Caravan, nor is there anything about how much progress has been made on the revised Sound of Music Festival, other than that discussions are taking place.
The City has put $150,000 on the table – it is going to take more than that in the long run. The word at this point is that it will not be a four-day event.
 Focus Burlington has published an opinion piece on how bad the City Council delegating process is. Using the headline: Delegation or Diminution? they have a lot to say on what is wrong, but very little on specific changes that can be made.
The article takes the reader through the details but zip on how to change the process, which few seem to find satisfactory.
A lot of what determines what can be said and what cannot be said by members of the public at a Council meeting is set out in the Procedural Bylaw, which is getting an update.
This is the level at which the citizens can push for change. There don’t appear to be any delegations on that Procedural Bylaw change that will be made final on Tuesday. Missed opportunity.
Link to the Focus Burlington article: Click HERE
OPINION: DELEGATION OR DIMINUTION?
Click here for a link to the article.
 By Gazette Staff
January 26, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Joseph Brant Hospital (JBH) announced today the official launch of its refreshed Patient Declaration of Values (PDOV) to the Burlington community.
 A skilled staff of 192 physicians, 1,994 full- and part-time staff and 368 volunteers are committed to providing exemplary care and living the hospital’s core values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence. This guiding document reflects what matters most to patients and families and reinforces JBH’s commitment to delivering compassionate, inclusive and person-centered care.
Originally introduced in 2010, the PDOV has served as a foundational statement of JBH’s values and care philosophy. The refreshed version was co-designed with JBH’s Patient Family Advisors (PFAs) and shaped by feedback from more than 20 internal and external groups. This work builds on JBH’s commitment to quality care and aligns with the Ontario Government’s Excellent Care for All Act, which supports the integration of patient values into hospital practices.
“The refreshed Patient Declaration of Values reflects our ongoing commitment to care that is shaped by the people we serve,” said Leslie Motz, JBH’s Executive Vice President Clinical and Chief Nursing Executive. “What matters to our community matters to us. This document is a clear expression of what patients and families value most, and a reminder to keep their voices at the centre of every decision we make.”
Hanadi, a Patient Family Advisor and newcomer to Canada, shared how meaningful the PDOV is to her and others navigating the health system for the first time. “For newcomers like me, the Patient Declaration of Values builds trust,” she said. “We know that our voices are heard and that our unique needs, like language support, cultural understanding, and feeling safe in a new environment, are recognized.”
Jill, a retired health care leader and dedicated family caregiver, also contributed to the refresh through her role as a PFA. “The Patient Declaration of Values isn’t just a document. It is a living framework that helps JBH deliver care that is respectful, responsive, and aligned with what matters most to patients and families,” she said. “It embeds the patient’s voice into the DNA of the hospital.”
Launching in January offers a meaningful opportunity to start the year with a renewed commitment to patients and families. JBH is proud to begin 2026 by reaffirming its dedication to person-centered care and strengthening its connection with the Burlington community.
To see the PDOV and learn more about how patient values guide care at JBH, visit josephbranthospital.ca/PDOV
About Joseph Brant Hospital
Joseph Brant Hospital (JBH) is a full-service, academic community teaching hospital located in Burlington, Ontario, along the picturesque banks of Lake Ontario. It is a modern, state-of-the-art facility serving residents in Burlington as well as the surrounding communities of Halton Region, Hamilton, Waterdown, Flamborough, and Stoney Creek.
JBH’s skilled staff of 192 physicians, 1,994 full- and part-time staff and 368 volunteers are committed to providing exemplary care and living the hospital’s core values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence.
JBH is a Clinical Education site in conjunction with McMaster University and a partner member of the Burlington Ontario Health Team. It is honoured to be recognized as one of Hamilton Niagara’s Top Employers for 10 consecutive years.
 By Gazette Staff
January 26th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
A new report warns that the turn to health care cutbacks in Ontario harken to the period of Mike Harris, as hundreds of job cuts ravage hospitals across the province, prolonging wait-times and delaying patient care.
 What will wait times look like with staffing cuts? The government recently directed hospitals to plan for two per cent annual funding increases until 2027-28 – far less than the six per cent average in recent years – precipitating job cuts at Hamilton Health Sciences and St. Joseph’s Healthcare.
“The Ford government’s funding plan will lead to more than 10,000 job losses and reduction of 2,400 hospital beds across the province at a time when 2,000 patients are receiving “hallway healthcare” every day, says the report by the Ontario Council of Hospital Unions, the hospital division of CUPE.
Driven to the brink: projected cuts to intensify hospital crisis will be released at a press conference in Hamilton at 2 p.m.
The report uses data on hospital staffing, capacity and funding from multiple official sources, and offers recommendations to address patient needs and restore lost capacity in the sector.
On Tuesday, the union will reveal the projected staffing and hospital bed cuts in Hamilton through to 2027-28, and contrast that with the number of beds required to maintain current service levels.
 By Joe Gaetan
January 26th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Special To the Gazette
 Doug Ford in a classic photo op. You know Doug Ford is coming in hot when his voice jumps three octaves and he uses one of his trademark catchphrases such as, when the cheese slips off the cracker. As he did recently over the Crown Royal bottling plant closure in Amherstburg. In the wake of that, Ford threatened to pull all Crown Royal off Ontario’s LCBO shelves. Why is he doing this? Aside from doing his job standing up for Ontario jobs, this makes no sense – and here’s why.
Wab Kinew Premier of Manitoba will tell you Crown Royal is made in Gimli, Manitoba. If you don’t know much about Gimli, it became famous for the Air Canada “Gimli Glider” incident. Air Canada Flight 143, from Montreal to Edmonton, ran out of fuel on July 23, 1983. The incident was caused by a series of issues, including a failed fuel-quantity indicator sensor (FQIS) and confusion over pounds and kilograms. Canada’s transition to the metric system started in 1970 and continued until 1985. But I digress.
The distillery, located on a 360-acre site, operates 24/7, mashing, distilling, and aging all Crown Royal products on Seagram Road. Another opportunity to digress, but I won’t. The site has 51 warehouses, draws fresh water from Lake Winnipeg, and employs Canadians. So there you have it. Going forward, bottling of Crown Royal for the Canadian market will take place at Diageo’s plant in Valleyfield, PQ – again, employing Canadians. On paper, most of the value-add is Canadian.
Diageo PLC is a British multinational alcoholic beverage company headquartered in London, England. It operates 132 sites in nearly 180 countries. Diageo announced it will bottle Crown Royal for the U.S. market in Plainfield, Illinois. Which makes little to no sense, as the plant is actually about 100km further north than Amherstburg, Ontario. However, the plot thickens, as Diageo just built a large plant and warehouse operation in Montgomery, Alabama.
“The new facility, which will be referred to as ‘Diageo Montgomery,’ will provide a new point of operations closer to the company’s beverage distributors in the southern region. The site’s strategic location is expected to reduce required road travel, significantly helping to further mitigate carbon emissions associated with logistics operations. The new facility will also employ state-of-the-art technology for more efficient water and energy usage across the site.”
(Source: Diageo Montgomery, AL – January 30, 2025)
 Wab Kinew Premier of Manitoba: “What I don’t understand is how pulling Crown Royal products off LCBO shelves – products with close to 100% Canadian content – solves the problem.” I fully understand why Premier Ford is upset and wants to stand up for Ontario jobs. What I don’t understand is how pulling Crown Royal products off LCBO shelves – products with close to 100% Canadian content – solves the problem. Diageo also produces many other products stocked by the LCBO – so what, exactly, is the point of singling out Crown Royal?
Seems to me this goes against the grain of the “all-Canadian, no provincial barriers” discussion. Standing up for Ontario jobs matters – but punishing Canadian workers elsewhere while shrinking consumer choice here doesn’t get us any closer to that goal.
 Joe Gaetan: Full disclosure: The author enjoys the odd dram of Speyside Scotch – and yes, Crown Royal Black – which may explain why he cares as much about good policy as he does about good whisky.
 By Gazette Staff
January 26th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
The City of Burlington has declared a Significant Weather Event with respect to the winter storm over the weekend. The Significant Weather Event was declared effective 12 a.m., Jan. 26 and will continue until further notice. This declaration suspends standard timelines for winter maintenance service, allowing City crews the flexibility to prioritize winter response activities due to the large amount of snow accumulation received.
 All parking exemptions and on-street parking permits are suspended, and on-street parking is prohibited until the Snow Event is declared over. Snow Event Declaration
A Significant Weather Event declaration is different from a Snow Event. A Snow Event was declared effective Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, at 9 p.m. and remains in effect. When a Snow Event is in effect, all vehicles must be parked off the street. All parking exemptions and on-street parking permits are suspended, and on-street parking is prohibited until the Snow Event is declared over. Vehicles parked on the street during a Snow Event may be ticketed or towed.
When the Snow Event ends, an update will be available on the City’s website. Please note that the Snow Event may end on a different day than the Significant Weather Event declaration.
Links and Resources
By Gazette Staff
January 26th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Due to the winter storm, all Burlington Public Library branches are CLOSED today, Monday, January 26.
 All these books are on hold for library members. All library branches are closed due to snow conditions.
 By Tom Parkin
January 26th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
A turning point? Private investment in Ontario housing shows life in November
Eventually, a lack of construction will cause housing prices and rents to climb again, shifting the policy debate. But the data isn’t clear if Ontario is at that point yet.
Ontario private housing investment turns sharply up in November
For over three years the post-bubble collapse of Ontario housing rents and prices has sent private investors to the sidelines, crushing housing starts and tens of thousands of residential construction jobs.
But Statistics Canada data released Wednesday, January 21 shows capital investment in Ontario housing construction turned sharply up in November, surpassing the previous peak in 2022 and maybe signaling investment managers think a return to rising rents and prices is on the horizon.
Tighter supply as private and public investment sit it out
During the three year private capital hiatus the Ontario government has also remained firmly on the sidelines, providing no direct construction capital, discount borrowing facility or injection into non-profit or co-op housing corporations.
Rather, its PC masters have constrained the Ontario government, limiting state-led action to a series of fiddles to lower investment taxes, cut approval processes and reduce affordability requirements.
The result has been record low housing construction, tightening housing markets and hedging against even deeper price and rent drops.
Shift from homeownership to rental
Permit data continues to show private capital’s return is to construct corporate apartment buildings and not for condos and single-dwelling housing, which can be occupied by its owner. This investment direction is taking Ontario toward reduced homeownership and less home purchase choice.
Investment in apartment rental is reducing home ownership choices
When turn comes, be ready for policy debates to shift
If November’s investment increase is the beginning of a sustained return by private capital, the threat of systemic finance damage caused by underwater mortgages and the condo crash may shift from small to remote. And if that threat disappears, to be replaced by the threat of higher prices and rents, the policy debate might advance to ways to maintain the price correction after the disastrous 2020-2022 unchecked price run-up.
While housing investors will no doubt fight policies to maintain lower rent and prices, falling household consumption, weak retail store purchases and stalled GDP growth provide strong economic arguments for protecting affordability. Allowing household incomes to be swallowed by housing costs is not a “Buy Canada” strategy.
While that debate lies somewhere ahead, other recent data suggests it’s not imminent.
November investment data echoed October building permit data, both showing an upswing. But investment reported on building permits fell from October to November (chart below), suggesting the November investment bump was not sustained and the report on December investment will show a return to decline.
So while constricted housing supply in the context of stable interest rates will eventually drive prices and rents higher, that time may not have arrived yet. Building permit and investment data for December release on February 11 and 18, respectively, perhaps clarifying if investors feel a price bottom has be found, and a new policy debate is on us.
Building permit data
Related news story:
Major Appleby Line development cancelled.
By Gazette Staff
January 26th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
A lot of people were surprised when they learned that the development of two 20-storey residential buildings connected by a shared 6-storey podium with retail at grade were cancelled.
The notice didn’t say the development would be delayed. It had been cancelled The developers, Latch Development returned deposits to those who purchased.
This meant that 475 residential units would not be coming to market.
In an announcement on their website, Latch Development said:
 Sales projections were not met: developer cancelled the project “Although the development received strong early interest, overall sales did not meet the required levels to proceed with construction. Given the continued challenges within the GTA condominium market, at this time, we have made the difficult decision not to proceed with the 1989 Condominium development.
This decision was not made lightly, but it reflects what we believe is in the best interest of our purchasers and the broader community. All purchasers will receive a full refund of their deposits in accordance with the terms of their agreements.
We remain committed to transparency and to maintaining the trust of our homeowners and partners. Thank you to everyone who expressed enthusiasm and support for 1989 Condominium.”
MHBC Planning, Urban Design & Landscape Architecture were the planning consultants for Latch. They would have been involved in the analysis of the market potential. While the city planning department didn’t make a decision on the development within the required 90 days, which took the matter to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) where it was eventually approved.
The development fit in with what the province wanted to see – Burlington has pledged to approve xxx number of housing units by 2031.
If Latch couldn’t presell units in the current market – it is doubtfull if any other developer will succeed which points to a significant depression in the growth of the city.
Burlington taxpayers are already bearing the burden of high taxes, in part due to the fact that assessment in the city has not grown.
 By Gerald Lewis
January 26th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
April 4, 2022, was a very important date in the history of gambling not just in Ontario but in Canada as a whole. This was the day when the province finally launched its regulated market for online casinos and sportsbooks.
The journey to reach this point had been a long one. The first land-based casino opened in 1994 in Windsor, but it took another 28 years before the legislation that recognized the existence of online casinos was in place. This meant that operators from all over the world were now permitted to apply for licences to offer their online casino services to Ontarians legally. In exchange they had to agree to pay a licence fee and taxes from profits to the province.
Beside the financial incentive there was one other key reason why Ontario decided that it was time to introduce these measures. Previously Canadians had been able to play in unregulated online casinos who it was almost impossible to block from operating in the country. Not only did this represent lost potential revenue, it also left players exposed to risks of various kinds. For example, some unregulated casinos fail to pay out winnings, others include games that are programmed to be far from fair.
 Dedicated to looking after the interests of both players and operators, and whose official vision is “To Lead The World’s Best Gaming Market”. But regulated casinos have to follow a strict code of practice and be demonstrably fair if they want to retain their licence. To oversee both the licensing process and the subsequent regulation of online casinos the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario created iGaming Ontario. This is an organisation that is dedicated to looking after the interests of both players and operators and whose official vision is “To Lead The World’s Best Gaming Market”. Today it licenses around 40 different casino operators with over 70 brands, and it does seem to be well on its way to turning its vision into reality.
Efficiency Examined
In looking at just how good a regulator like iGaming Ontario really is there are a number of factors to consider. Firstly, it’s how well the casinos themselves operate as well as the general standard of the operators. Then it’s how safe and protected players feel. So if they do have a concern or complaint can they be confident that the regulating body will react.
Finally, it’s how the market is doing financially, because a well-regulated one will have no problem with attracting new players and generating much-appreciated tax revenue for the province.
One only has to look at the kinds of operators that appear on the review site Casino.ca Ontario to see that they are respected and of high quality. They offer generous bonuses for new players and are transparently fair in the ways that they operate. So all have obviously carried out the due diligence required to obtain an operator’s licence.
 Bonuses and free spins come under stronger regulation on Ontario site. Thanks to this approach, in the 3+ years the regulatory system has been in place there has been little need for iGaming Ontario’s intervention. However the organisation has shown that it is ready and willing to act in the event of a contravention of the rules. Recently a fine of CA$350,000 was imposed on a sportsbook following suspicious betting activity in the world of Czech table tennis.
When it comes to how the sector is doing financially this is one more tick in favour of iGaming Ontario. Only last August it saw a month on month leap of 8% in terms of revenue. There are also around 1 million player accounts registered with online casinos, a figure that continues to rise year on year.
Other leading regulators in North America
While Ontario is the undoubted leader in Canada there are also a couple of notable bodies south of the border too. Naturally, the Nevada Gaming Commission leads the way. Responsible for overseeing what is undoubtedly the gaming capital of the world, Las Vegas, this also upholds the very highest standards.
They are closely followed by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) and Casino Control Commission. As one of relatively few states to allow legal online gambling theirs is a model that probably guided Ontario to a high degree. It’s also one that has effectively managed to combine a competitive market with high levels of player protection.
Lessons going forward
 Opposition to billboard and television advertising for gambling sites is increasing. Governments are looking at limiting what can be advertised. It’s believed that a number of other Canadian provinces have been closely watching Ontario prior to introducing licensed online casinos. These include British Columbia and Alberta who are likely to launch sometime in the Spring of 2026. Ontario has scarcely put a foot wrong so theirs would be a good blueprint to follow in terms of building player trust and creating a genuinely competitive market.
One issue that has been experienced in Ontario is the demand for tighter regulation on the type and timing of TV advertising for online casinos. So placing firmer restrictions on this from the outsell could well avoid issues further down the line.
By Gregory Livingston
January 26, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
One of the defining features of Burlington’s nightlife is its close connection to local culture. On any given night, you might find acoustic performances at rustic venues on Brant Street, jazz trios playing in historic pubs, or open-mic sessions that attract the city’s creative minds. The live music scene here feels authentic — it’s about people, not spectacle.
 Residents often describe the vibe as “welcoming but refined,” with venues balancing great sound, good company, and a touch of spontaneity. Community-driven spaces like these form the backbone of Burlington’s evening atmosphere. Residents often describe the vibe as “welcoming but refined,” with venues balancing great sound, good company, and a touch of spontaneity. It’s this spirit that sets Burlington apart from larger urban centers nearby.
Beyond Bars – New Forms of Nighttime Entertainment
Food and drink are at the heart of Burlington’s night culture. The city has developed a reputation for its evolving culinary scene, where international flavors meet Canadian creativity. From intimate bistros serving local wine pairings to waterfront patios offering late-night tapas, Burlington transforms into a food lover’s destination once the lights dim.
Restaurants often double as social hubs, creating spaces that encourage connection. Visitors quickly discover that dining here isn’t just about the meal — it’s about the experience.
A Digital Twist to the Nightlife Scene
Entertainment in Burlington isn’t limited to physical spaces. Technology has expanded the way residents unwind, blending traditional leisure with digital experiences. Online platforms, streaming events, and virtual gaming spaces have all become part of how people relax after a long day.
In this modern shift, nightrush represents a growing category of interactive entertainment where timing and excitement converge. While Burlington’s streets hum with live energy, many locals also explore new forms of digital fun that fit seamlessly into their lifestyle. It’s this balance between the real and virtual that defines the city’s modern approach to recreation.
Where Nature and Nightlife Coexist
One of Burlington’s most iconic night scenes unfolds along its waterfront. As Lake Ontario reflects the soft lights of the pier, locals stroll, couples dine by candlelight, and live music drifts from nearby patios. The Burlington Pier itself has become a symbol of the city’s blend of relaxation and liveliness — a place where nature frames the social experience.
This connection to nature makes Burlington’s nightlife distinct. It’s not about neon lights or overcrowded clubs; it’s about atmosphere, community, and the kind of moments that linger. Even a quiet walk along the lake can feel like part of the evening’s entertainment.
Tech and Trends Shaping Burlington’s Entertainment
Burlington is part of a broader movement among mid-sized Canadian cities embracing smart technologies. Public Wi-Fi zones, efficient transportation systems, and digital event listings have made it easier than ever for residents to find and enjoy activities after dark.
Technology doesn’t just support convenience — it enhances connection. Event-goers can follow live updates about performances, check crowd sizes, or even order ahead for drinks or tickets. It’s a seamless integration of innovation and lifestyle, one that reflects the city’s forward-thinking approach to entertainment.
As physical and digital entertainment continue to merge, Burlington’s venues have begun experimenting with hybrid models. Live concerts are streamed online, trivia nights include virtual participation, and digital art projections light up the cityscape during local festivals.
These interactive experiences give Burlington’s nightlife a sense of evolution — not a reinvention, but a natural extension of how people choose to enjoy their evenings today.
The Social Side of Burlington Nights
 Outdoors and yards from the lake – a prime spot in the city. From upscale wine bars to lively patios and music lounges, Burlington caters to a variety of tastes. Small venues foster intimacy and connection, while larger spaces embrace energy and movement. Whether it’s the laughter of a trivia crowd, the rhythm of a jazz performance, or the calm of a lakeside lounge, the diversity of atmospheres makes Burlington’s nightlife dynamic yet personal.
Seasonal events like the Sound of Music Festival or Burlington Food Truck Festival infuse additional life into the city’s nights. They serve as reminders that entertainment here doesn’t always mean extravagance — it often means togetherness.
As the city continues to grow, its focus on creating shared experiences ensures that Burlington’s nightlife remains inclusive, balanced, and full of character.
Burlington’s Nightlife Future – Local Soul, Global Vision
What makes Burlington’s nightlife truly stand out is its sustainability — not just environmentally, but culturally. Businesses and event organizers emphasize local partnerships, eco-friendly operations, and authentic experiences. The result is a scene that feels homegrown yet forward-looking.
This approach reflects a larger trend seen across Canada: the blending of local identity with global influence. Burlington embraces innovation while keeping its roots intact, ensuring its nightlife remains as genuine as it is exciting.
Redefining “Nightlife” for a Modern Generation
For younger residents, nightlife isn’t confined to traditional venues. It includes social media-driven pop-ups, outdoor film screenings, and virtual gatherings. The city’s open-minded attitude encourages creativity — from digital art displays to collaborative performances that reimagine what evening entertainment can be.
This redefinition ensures Burlington continues to thrive, offering both connection and exploration in an age of constant change.
Burlington After Dark – Where Every Night Tells a Story
 Burlington’s rich indigenous culture is on display throughout the year Burlington’s nightlife isn’t loud or showy — it’s meaningful, modern, and unmistakably local. The city has mastered the art of blending community and creativity, proving that a smaller city can have a big personality when the lights go down.
From waterfront evenings to virtual adventures, Burlington embodies the essence of contemporary leisure — grounded in connection, shaped by innovation, and guided by authenticity.
As day turns to night, Burlington doesn’t slow down. It transforms — into a living canvas of culture, flavor, and rhythm.
By Gazette Staff
January 25th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
If we can make it to July there will be financial sunshine for most Canadians
Having solved economic issues at the world level and managed to keep most of the provinces happy, Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to announce changes in the GST credit paid out to most Canadians.
 The Toronto Star has reported that Carney will take a stab at resetting his domestic agenda Monday with an affordability announcement that will include generous top-ups to the GST credit this summer, impacting approximately 12 million Canadians.
Carney is set to announce that the quarterly GST payments will increase in July by 25 per cent over the next five years — providing approximately an additional $130 for a low-income single person and $270 for a couple with two kids for the 2026-2027 benefit year.
The government will also provide a one-time special payment in June, equal to a 50 per cent increase in the value of the GST credit, meaning a family with two kids could receive more than $800 in combined relief.
 By Gazette Staff
January 25th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
The original plan was to see 25 tables of eight for a Trivia Night.
They’ve sold 26 tables and are checking to see if it will be possible to add a few more.
 The people organizing this event on behalf of the Compassion Society are itching to put up a SOLD OUT sign.
The prizes are impressive:
Providing a $50 gift card for the first place winners.
1st place $50 gift card for Squire’s Gastro Pub for each member of the winning table
3rd place $10 gift card for Crème de la Crème for each member of the third place winners.
They are still witing fr confirmation on the provider of the second place prize.
 By Gazette Staff
January 25th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
 The warm balmy days of August are the furthest things from our minds on days like this.
Not so for the people who promote a vegan lifestyle.
They are preparing for the 5th annual Veg Fest – in Spencer Smith Park this year. August 15th: 11:00 to 6:30
They drew 15,000 people last year -expect even more this year.
 Fruits and vegetables and nice people
By Gazette Staff
January 24th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
It’s a snowstorm! A big one – Canada, hockey and winter snowstorms – part of our DNA.
 THIS is what winter is about. Storm could deliver between 20 and 40 centimetres of snow. The city is prepared; it has the experienced staff and equipment to handle this.
Hundreds of flights cancelled at Pearson – that is to be expected.
Several GO transit routes are impacted, as well as dozens of TTC stops. Neither the GO transit system were built to deal with level os snow but the people of the province know this and they know how to prepare.
Toronto has activated all of its warming centres, which provide meals, access to washroom facilities, and referrals to emergency shelter. Those who do not have adequate housing do need extra support. And, once we have dealt with our shame, we can get on with helping those people.
 Wild life need support during heavy snowfalls. No mention of all the tobogganing opportunities. And what great weather to go snowshoeing in. The countryside will be eerily quiet while the deer rummage for food. This is the time of year farmers put out bales of hay for them.
Environment Canada tends to say the same thing with every weather report. Never any mention of the changes in our climate that we, for the most part brought on ourselves.
That too is part of our DNA.
By Pepper Parr
January 25th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Focus Burlington found its footing at their Beyond the Ballot event earlier this month.
 The attendance was decent given the weather. The next step is to look for candidates to run in the six city wards and and with some luck find a candidate for the office of Mayor.
In a note to the people who participated: Eric Stern, Stephen White said: “If you have ever considered running for office or know anyone who is interested, please join us on Thursday, February 26th, at Lions Hall at 7 pm to learn more about what’s involved.
In 2018, five of the people who were elected to office were first-time candidates. Two of the Council members had retired.
Change does happen. New leadership is out there – if you think you might be part of it – show up on the 25th.
By Jake Fuss, Fraser Institute
January 24, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Examining Federal Debt in Canada by Prime Ministers Since Confederation, 2026
Canada’s 24 prime ministers have each left a legacy, and each of those legacies has an effect on all Canadians. One element critical to an analysis of each prime minister is whether he or she left the federal government more or less indebted than when first taking office.
This bulletin measures the debt legacies of all prime ministers from 1870 to 2025. We examine the percentage change in inflation-adjusted gross debt per person during the tenures of various prime ministers. By accounting for population growth and inflation, the level of debt accumulated by each prime minister can be compared through Canada’s history.
Historical context is vital to understanding the debt legacies of each prime minister. For instance, global conflicts such as World War I and World War II and multiple economic downturns contributed significantly to the substantial growth in debt per person that occurred during the tenures of Sir Robert Borden (188.1 percent) and William Lyon Mackenzie King (145.2 percent).
During economic downturns, the federal government collects less revenue and spends more as incomes decline and Canadians draw more on services such as Employment Insurance. These downturns contribute significantly to federal debt accumulation, but are out of the direct control of prime ministers.
In 2025, federal per-person debt is projected to be $56,432, which is the second-highest amount in Canadian history (surpassed only by 2021). During the first year of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s tenure, federal per-person debt is expected to increase by 4.2 percent.
 By Pepper Parr
January 24th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
How do you explain to a young child that Grandpa is not going to be visiting anymore?
Death is not something young children understand. They experience the loss, but comprehending what has happened is not easily explained.
 Esther Maloney Esther Maloney is a writer, filmmaker and educator who currently works for the National Film Board of Canada. She has taught courses at George Brown College, Humber College and at the University of Toronto, Scarborough.
She has written a wonderful little book that helps parents deal with situations where a grandparent or close family friend pass away that young children miss terribly and don’t understand why they are gone.
Maloney blends in the death of a person with the releasing of an injured bird from a cage once they have healed. The book explores the bigger questions and emotions around life and death, loss and connections.
 A child’s Father explains:”Everyone has their own beliefs about what happens after death, but you can think of it like a bird being freed from it’s cage.”
“Really? How? asked the child.
That is a tough question to answer without getting tied up in different religious ideologies.
“We human beings”, explains the Father “have two parts. One is our body, which only lasts for a little while in this world. The other part is our soul, which lasts forever. Our bodies are like cages that keep our souls connected to this world for a time. But eventually our souls are set free.”
The book is beautifully illustrated by Elaheh Bos.
Efforts are being made to have a copy of the book in every Burlington Library branch. We will let you know when it’s on the shelves.
 By Joe Gaetan
January 24th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
As epic as Mark Carney’s Davos speech was, the real story isn’t just what he said – it’s how Carney got here, and what that says about us as voters.
Let’s be honest: Carney didn’t become prime minister in a vacuum. Carney may be PM in part due to Pierre Poilievre, and the Carbon Tax. Who can forget how he relentlessly hammered away at “axing the tax”. The tax imposed on Canadians to be rebated in full (but not before or without adding the cost of administering the merry-go-round). That drumbeat like it or not may have helped reshape our and possibly the worlds political landscape.
Looking back, instead of using our energy resources to help friendly countries, we were told we should leave it in the ground. When we knew LNG is cleaner than coal, we were told there was “no business case for LNG,” while some provinces said, “not through our land.” And while EVs are part of the solution, instead of investing first in nationwide charging infrastructure, we were about to impose an EV mandate on the entire country. While there was more going on than the energy file, it serves as a proxy for, be careful what you vote for. Who we elect is just as important – if not more – than what our leaders say on the hustings or on the world stage.
 When we elect someone because we are charmed by appearance, rather than substance, we get what we deserve. When we elect someone because we are charmed by appearance, rather than substance, we get what we deserve. When we elect someone who sees the bigger picture – who understands we can be green while still ethically developing and exporting oil, gas, and SMRs – then we start firing on all cylinders.
 Democracy isn’t just about showing up. If you don’t think who you vote for matters as much as what you vote for, ask yourself: where would Canada be today if, collectively – not unanimously, but meaningfully – we hadn’t given Carney a chance to show what he was made of? For some the jury is still out on that question. While others are giddy over Carney.
And now, due to floor-crossing and political volatility, we may be heading back to the polls sooner than later.
So here’s the real question for voters:
Will you only vote for the party you’ve always voted for?
Will you vote just because you like your local candidate?
Will you vote because a candidate says its 2026?
Will you vote after taking a serious look at the effect your vote has on the future of our country?
Will you vote at all?
The last year has been a wake-up call. Not just about politics – but about our voting responsibility. Because democracy isn’t just about showing up. It’s about thinking harder, digging deeper, voting smarter, and understanding that leadership choices shape everything from your tax bill to Canada’s place in the world. And just in case you think this only applies to federal elections, think again. We will soon be voting on Municipal candidates. And this is not the time to sleepwalk through it.
 By Pepper Parr
January 24th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
The Performing Arts Centre has yet to post anything on their web ste about what Sunday’s weather is going to do to us. Best to check with the Box Office to determine if the show is going to run before you consider attending.
If you haven’t booked a seat for this event – give it a thought – but moved quickly.
Step back into an era when “swing” reigned supreme in Burlington!
The 26-piece Toronto All-Star Big Band revives the spirit and style of the golden age of the Big Bands.
Enjoy your favourite tunes by Glenn Miller and Benny Goodman.
These were the sounds that were heard at the long gone Burlington Inn that had a stage stretching out into Lake Ontario.
Tickets are available. Click HERE for ticket office.
By Pepper Parr
January 23rd, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
 The War Plane Museum in Hamilton uses TipTap that allows people support the maintenance and upkeep of one of just two WWII Lancaster bombers in the world. There is a company in Burlington that is getting help from people who visit their premises to keep a vintage war plane in the Air.
That company works with the Salvation Army to bring in 15% of their donations; last year, they increased the donation level by 12%
They have expanded into the United States, where they are broadening the line of services they offer.
Tiptap, have you heard of them?
They use a small device that you tap with your credit card or debit card, should you decide you want to support the organization.
“What we have done, explained Mark Gordon, Managing Director, Sales and Retention, is give people an opportunity to support an organization or an idea with a one-time on-the-spot donation.
 Their service provided 15%of the Salvation Army donations in 2024.
There are all kinds of things people want to support but don’t want to enter into a long-term financial commitment. Tiptap fills that gap.
“It is going to take some time to educate the public on what we can do” said Jordan.
There is a transaction fee of 10 cents each time a donation is made. The Tiptap people earn 2.65%of each transaction.
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