 By Milan Welsch
October 20th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
If you’ve tuned into a Maple Leafs game lately, you’ve probably spotted them. Hockey nights in Canada have started to sound different. Between periods, during timeouts, and even after the final whistle, betting ads have become part of the soundtrack.
The surge is especially visible during high-profile broadcasts, where betting logos appear on rink boards, commentary segments, and pre-game sponsorships. That steady drumbeat is now prompting action.
Federal Action on the Horizon
Bill S-211, currently being studied by a Senate committee, would create national rules for how betting companies advertise during live sports.
 Some feel this level of advertising is a little over the top. The proposal aims to set limits on how often ads can appear during games, where they can be placed, and whether public figures can promote gambling brands. In practice, it would bring gambling promotions under similar restrictions to alcohol and tobacco advertising.
The bill’s sponsor, Senator Marty Deacon, framed the issue plainly during committee hearings: “Today in Canada, it is impossible to watch a sporting event without being encouraged to gamble.”
Supporters of the bill say the constant stream of betting messages has made it difficult to watch sports without being encouraged to gamble. They argue that national rules are needed to reduce pressure on viewers and protect vulnerable players.
Ontario’s Regulatory Lead
While the federal debate continues, Ontario has already built much of what the bill envisions. Since launching its regulated iGaming market in April 2022, the province has created Canada’s most comprehensive online gambling system.
 iGaming Ontario (iGO), fully independent More than 75 licensed operators now operate under iGaming Ontario (iGO), which became fully independent from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario in May 2025 after the passage of the iGaming Ontario Act.
Ontario’s licensed online casinos and sportsbooks all follow the same strict standards. Every operator must have its games independently tested for fairness, protect player data through strong cybersecurity requirements, and include built-in responsible gambling tools.
Players can set deposit limits before they start, receive reminders about how long they’ve been playing, or lock their accounts entirely through self-exclusion programs.
Advertising is also regulated. Under AGCO guidelines, operators must avoid misleading claims, clearly disclose terms, and refrain from aggressive or misleading messaging.
For players, that means transparency and control. For operators, it creates clear expectations and accountability. For regulators, it delivers an adaptable structure that can evolve as the market grows.
In provinces without similar oversight, players often rely on lottery sites or offshore platforms with little protection or recourse. That lack of oversight leaves players exposed to unfair games, weak data security, and unclear complaint processes. Without regulated standards, there’s no guarantee their money or information is safe.
From Parlays to Single-Event Betting
Canada’s gambling landscape changed in 2021 when federal law began allowing single-event sports betting. Before that, players could only place parlays, betting on several outcomes at once. Ontario moved quickly to launch a regulated market, giving players the option to bet on individual games through licensed platforms.
 The Canadian Senate; whatever comes out of the Senate will likely be passed by the House of Commons. The shift made legal sports betting mainstream and drew new attention to how it’s advertised. For Ontario players, imagine watching a Maple Leafs game and seeing a new gambling ad every 30 seconds. This increased visibility can create pressure to place bets, often before regulations fully control how and when those promotions appear.
Why Federal Reform Still Matters
Ontario’s regulated market is well-established, but across Canada, rules vary widely. Advertising created for Ontario’s licensed operators often reaches audiences in provinces without regulated iGaming, raising questions about legality and consumer protection.
Bill S-211 aims to create national standards for sports betting advertising, including limits on frequency, placement, and the use of celebrity endorsements.
That said, the path forward remains uncertain. While the Senate has historically supported similar legislation, progress in the House of Commons can be delayed by elections or shifting political priorities.
Implementation will also depend on how provinces, including Alberta, introduce their own regulated markets.
What the Bill Would Change
If enacted, Bill S-211 would reduce ad frequency during live sports to limit saturation, ban celebrity and athlete endorsements following precedents from alcohol and tobacco regulation, and create a uniform national framework for gambling marketing standards.
For Ontario, these measures would largely reinforce existing policies. For other provinces, they could serve as a foundation for future iGaming development and bring markets into closer alignment with Ontario’s standards.
 Wayne Gretzky, one of the most popular Canadian hockey players – until he joined an American team. If enacted, Bill S-211 would:
- Reduce ad frequency during live sports to limit saturation
- Ban celebrity and athlete endorsements, following precedents from alcohol and tobacco regulation
- Create a uniform national framework for gambling marketing standards
For Ontario, these measures would largely reinforce existing policies. For other provinces, they could serve as a foundation for future iGaming development.
Ontario’s Current Protections
Ontario’s system already includes:
- Independent third-party testing to ensure fairness and transparency
- Mandatory responsible gambling tools across all licensed platforms
- Advertising and content standards enforced by the AGCO
- Data and payment protections that secure player information
- Accessible complaint and dispute-resolution processes
These rules give players a way to resolve problems, something not possible on offshore sites without Canadian oversight.
The Bigger Picture
Canada’s gambling landscape is shifting from a patchwork of provincial rules toward a system that puts players first. A federal framework could bring Ontario’s benchmarking to the rest of the country, making sure players everywhere know what’s safe and what’s not.
It gives bettors confidence and peace of mind. Operators and investors gain clarity and consistency in the rules. Regulators get the tools to ensure the system works effectively in practice, not just on paper.
 Ontario has been a leader in the gaming industry almost from the day it started. At this point it is the most trusted jurisdiction in the world. The Senate committee is expected to conclude hearings later this year before a full vote. If Bill S-211 passes, it will move to the House of Commons, where its progress will depend on parliamentary timing and political priorities.
Meanwhile, Ontario continues to refine its own rules. iGaming Ontario’s independence allows faster responses to market changes, new technologies, and emerging consumer risks.
As advertising rules tighten and new markets emerge, the test for regulators will be whether players can enjoy the convenience of online betting without feeling constantly sold to.
By Pepper Parr
October 18th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
And if you’re interested in growing your theatre production skills, you should definitely apply to the Fringe ALERT Producer Training program!
Some changes have been made to the program this year that will give producers the opportunity to learn or refresh theatre-specific producing skills, participate in customized mentor-led workshops and in-depth conversations with theatre professionals, and have a more hands-on role as part of the producing team for the ALERT Resident Company’s public presentation at the 2026 Hamilton Fringe Festival.
It’s free to apply! Applications close by November 1, 2025 at 11:59PM.
Click HERE if you want to know more.
By Gazette Staff
October 18th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
After deciding that the existing Sound of Music Organization is not capable of running a Music Festival the city is reaching out and asking people what should a Muscic Festival look like.
 “To ensure that a community-focused music festival remains part of Burlington’s waterfront experience, share your thoughts by Nov. 17 at https://bit.ly/MusicFestivalSurvey2026
This is going to be a vibrant, inclusive, and community-driven event.
The only time Burlington is vibrant is when there is a major event at Spencer Smith Park.
By Stephen Atcheler
October 18th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Key takeaways
- Some movies suggest romance requires grand spectacles
- Others show it comes from listening and remembering
 This is a romantic gesture. Movies often highlight romantic gestures that can inspire us to be more thoughtful in our own lives. In Love Actually, Mark silently confesses his feelings through handwritten cue cards, emphasizing the power of vulnerability and honest expression. These moments show that romance doesn’t always require grand spectacles; it often comes from listening, remembering, and creating personalized acts of love.
 At the same time, films also remind us that romance is about effort and intention, not just dramatic flair. In 10 Things I Hate About You, Patrick wins over Kat not with material gifts but through persistence, humor, and a memorable serenade that speaks to her personality. In Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Darcy’s quiet yet powerful acts of kindness, such as helping Elizabeth’s family without seeking recognition, demonstrate that genuine care often occurs behind the scenes.
Taken together, these stories suggest that while movies can exaggerate for effect, they still offer meaningful lessons on thoughtfulness: paying attention, making sacrifices, and showing love in ways that a partner you know well will appreciate.
Why the little things count
Thoughtful gestures and relationships go hand in hand, especially if satisfaction is a concern. It’s essential to show your partner that you love, appreciate, and care about them, as this reduces uncertainty and instills a sense of security, ultimately strengthening your bond. Research has shown that factors like attentiveness, affection, and responsiveness play a critical role in relationship satisfaction. For example, simply spending time talking has been linked to more positive views of the relationship, greater satisfaction, and increased closeness.
In close relationships, responsiveness, or the feeling that your partner values, supports, and understands you, is particularly important. Small, regular acts of kindness are an essential way to express such responsiveness. Small gestures also improve well-being and mental health, with research showing that receiving such gestures enhances self-esteem, optimism, purpose, and overall well-being.
 Thoughtful gestures and relationships go hand in hand, Social connection remains as vital a component of well-being as ever in 2025; the WHO reports that 1 in 6 people globally experience loneliness, which has an adverse impact on their health. High-quality relationships ease mental health issues, but toxic ones are more damaging than being alone.
According to a Verywell Mind survey in January 2025, 63% of Gen Z respondents shared their mental health had been less than optimal that month, compared to only 28% of boomers, 49% of Gen X, and 52% of millennials. This stemmed largely from loneliness and sleep problems, but also more tangible concerns like job stress and financial worries. Movies that portray psychological themes realistically can promote discussion and awareness while giving viewers a perspective.
How to be more thoughtful
Movies often portray simple acts of thoughtfulness, such as saying “I love you,” complimenting your partner, laughing at their jokes, or sending cute text messages, which you can perform easily. Small acts of service, like cooking your partner their favorite meal, taking care of them when they’re sick, serving them breakfast in bed, or making them a cup of tea or coffee in the morning, can show them you are thinking about them and you care.
You can show your partner love through gifts. This can be as simple as bringing them fresh flowers from the garden or preparing a heartfelt greeting card.
To create intimacy, you could hold their hand, sit by them when you’re together, give them random hugs and kisses, or pamper them with a massage.
 Have a fun date. Spending time together as a couple is associated with improved well-being and relationship satisfaction overall. Have a fun date night every week or month, go for walks together, plan fun activities for the weekend, and show an interest in their hobbies.
Recap
- Vocalize your affection and build intimacy
- Spend time together and do things for each other
- Surprise each other with nice presents once in a while.
By Pepper Parr
October 18th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
There is a flicker of hope for the Republic.
Americans across all 50 states will march in protests against the Trump administration on Saturday, aligning behind a message that the country is sliding into authoritarianism and there should be no kings in the US.
 A sign created by hundreds of people on a San Francisco beach. Millions are expected to turn out for the No Kings protests, the second iteration of a coalition that marched in June in one of the largest days of protest in US history. Events are scheduled for more than 2,700 locations, from small towns to large cities.
Greg Abbott, the governor of Texas, has said he will send the state’s national guard to Austin, the state’s capital, in advance of the protests.
By Pepper Parr
October 18th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Fringe Festival is a Hamilton event that draws people from Burlington.
It also draws playwrights –
Submissions are now OPEN for the 2026 New Play Contest. The Hamilton Fringe’s New Play Contest has been around for over 18 years? That’s 18 cohorts of celebrated playwrights and collectives––and 18 award-winning works being showcased on a Hamilton Fringe stage!
The winning entrant receives a FREE 60-minute production slot in the 2026 Hamilton Fringe Festival plus a $300 cash prize.
 With audiences like this, you want your production to be on a Fringe Stage Second and Third Place entries each receive a Fringe Binge 6-Show Pass for the 2026 Hamilton Fringe Festival (value of over $70).
This is a great opportunity to share your creative vision with a panel of theatre professionals and to get a shot at putting your show on a Hamilton Fringe stage for free. Plus, you could be part of this contest’s long and storied history!
So what are you waiting for? Submissions close Thursday, November 20, 2025 by 11:59PM ET
Click HERE for details.
By Boris Dzhingarov
October 18th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas drew a lot of attention from people in Canada’s gaming scene. Many visitors said it showed that businesses of all sizes can do well when rules are not too strict. Many took pleasure in observing innovative equipment, imaginative game-enhancing designs, and creative machine solutions. The experts support business freedom because it enables companies to become more innovative while creating opportunities for new businesses to challenge established large corporations. The Canadian public observed that this method established fair competition while providing participants with additional options. The expo showed an exciting environment, which proved that various gaming options result in superior gameplay for every player.
 Insight into the gaming world. Various online sources now provide helpful insight into the gaming world. For example, esports.net’s guide to Canada market explains how online casinos operate, including games like poker, slot machines, and live dealer tables. Other gaming options, such as strategy games, competitive multiplayer titles, and esports tournaments, provide useful details about rules, scoring, and basic strategies, helping players make informed choices. Resources like this show how a mix of competition and clear information can improve the gaming experience while giving people more ways to enjoy and engage with different types of games.
Presentations showed how operators can offer games with unique themes, different designs, and varying RTPs. At the Global Gaming Expo, visitors saw a clear difference between areas with strict rules and those where companies had more freedom. People said they appreciated watching businesses experiment with new ideas. Interactive tables, special events, and imaginative game features drew a lot of attention. This approach helps companies understand what you enjoy most. It also makes the experience more engaging and fun for everyone.
Meeting people from different parts of the industry was another highlight. Attendees could talk with others, exchange ideas, and learn from each other’s experiences. The expo also demonstrated how trends in other countries can influence local markets. New products and fresh approaches gave people ideas about what might work at home. Seeing both small start-ups and large corporations in action helped everyone understand how competition drives better games and more choices for you.
Innovation in games earned plenty of praise. Presentations showed how operators can offer games with unique themes, different designs, and varying RTPs. Observing that when businesses have freedom, these creative ideas flourish and give you a more personal experience. Workshops and demos also explained the business side in a simple, hands-on way.
 A well-run event can combine the fun of games with opportunities for business innovation and networking. Overall, the event gave a first-hand look at how a freer market can shape the gaming world. Guests left with a better understanding of how flexible rules help companies grow, encourage creativity, and make playing more exciting for everyone. The expo highlighted that a well-run event can combine the fun of games with opportunities for business innovation and networking. Many attendees came away impressed by how an open-market approach brings fresh ideas, more options, and a lively, engaging gaming scene where both new and established companies can thrive.
By Gazette Staff
October 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) has approved changes to the City’s Official Plan.
That document is also being litigated at the Ontario Land Tribunal.
Date of Decision: October 10, 2025
Date of Notice: October 10, 2025
NOTICE OF DECISION
With respect to an Official Plan, Subsection 17(34) of the Planning Act
A decision was made on the date noted above to approve, with modifications, the City of Burlington’s Official Plan Amendment 2, as adopted by By-law 45-2024.
 Referred to as a “living” document” – it is revised frequently. And appealed to the OLT just as often. Purpose and Effect of the Official Plan
Official Plan Amendment 2 includes policy and schedule updates to the Burlington Official Plan 2020 to direct future development within three Protected Major Transit Station Areas (PMTSAs) in Burlington: Downtown Burlington Urban Growth Centre/ Burlington GO, the Aldershot GO, and the Appleby GO station areas. Official Plan Amendment 2 also enables the City of Burlington to implement a Community Planning Permit System (CPPS) within the three PMTSAs.
Fifty-four (54) modifications have been made to ensure Official Plan Amendment 2 is consistent with the policies of the Provincial Planning Statement and complies with applicable legislation, such as changes related to upper-tier planning authority, affordable housing, density target ratios, employment areas, land use compatibility of existing major facilities, and CPPS enabling policies.
Official Plan Amendment 2 applies to lands within the three PMTSAs, as aforementioned.
Decision
Under the Planning Act, the Minister’s decisions on policies identified in subsection 17(36.1.4), including those related to subsection 16(15) regarding the use of land and density of buildings within the PMTSAs, are not appealable to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT). However, the Minister’s decisions on other official plan policies in Official Plan Amendment 2 (e.g., general direction related to planning for employment areas, transportation networks, and infrastructure, etc.) would be appealable to the OLT by the municipality, landowners, public bodies and certain third parties. The CPPS enabling policies, including any modifications to these policies made through the Minister’s decision on the amendment, are also appealable to the OLT.
Certain elements of the Ministry’s decision, as described above, are not subject to appeal to the OLT; the balance of the decision may be appealed by eligible persons and entities within 20 days of the Ministry giving notice of the decision. Accordingly, if not appealed, the new City of Burlington Official Plan Amendment 2 comes into effect on October 31, 2025.
The document setting out the changes is 25 pages long. We will review that document and provide a link to the full contents at a later date.
By Gazette Staff
October 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
BurlingtonGreen has a full full schedule on Saturday at the Burlington Centre on Guelph Line.
By Gazette Staff
October 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Bending the ear of a member of the Legislature is part of the way politics is done in Ontario.
LOBBY LIST
Here are the new, renewed and amended registrations over the past 24 hours:
 Amin Massoudi, Atlas Strategic Advisors: Food Allergy Canada, Epilepsy Ontario- Rob Krauss, StrategyCorp: Rail Deck Development Corporation
- Michael Bonner, Atlas Strategic Advisors: Autonomous AI & BVLOS Solution Inc.
- Amir Remtulla, Amir Remtulla: Columbus Landowners Group Inc.
- Donald Gracey, CG Management & Communications: Sigma Healthtech
- Keyaan Nejad, PAA Advisory | Counseils: Foyer St-Viateur Nursing Home
- Carolyn Kim, Grosso McCarthy: NorthWest Healthcare Properties Corporation
- Stew Kiff, Solstice Public Affairs: Assemblée de la francophonie de l’Ontario
By Gazette Staff
October 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Starting on Saturday, October 18, until 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, October 19, Lakeshore West Line rail service will be temporarily modified to accommodate critical track work that will bring faster, more frequent service across the network.
 Bat meets ball. Sends ball over the wall – again. During this time, regularly scheduled Lakeshore West trains will only run between Niagara Falls and Oakville GO. Please note that regular weekend service will resume at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday before Game 6 of the Blue Jays playoff series.
GO Bus Route 56 will depart at Oakville and Clarkson GO every half hour and run to Bramalea GO, where customers can connect to eastbound train service on the Kitchener Line to Union Station.
 On Saturday, October 18, there will be no GO Transit service at Port Credit, Long Branch or Mimico GO. From 2:47 p.m. to 6:07 p.m. and 8:09 p.m. to 10:39 p.m., special trains will run between Union Station and Exhibition GO.
- On Sunday, October 19 until 11:00 a.m., there will be no GO Transit service at Port Credit, Long Branch, Mimico or Exhibition GO.
Later this evening on October 17, there will also be some late-night service adjustments.
More information about Lakeshore West Line service adjustments and alternate route options is available HERE.
By Gazette Staff
October 16th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
During the events held in every city ward Mayor Meed Ward took on questions from anyone.
Some people called in twice with the same question.
Caren was one of them.
 How much did it cost to convert this site into the Bateman Community Centre? The question had to do with the cost of converting a decommissioned high school into a community centre. Which she asked September 22.
The Mayor didn’t have the figures at her fingertips and said to Caren that she would get the information for her.
Caren is now saying the Mayor has still not gotten back to her.
“Still no response from our Mayor and company regarding the costs to date on Bateman including the property purchase.”
Is Caren being unfair, expecting too much in a short period of time?
Or is the Mayor and her staff dragging their feet?
 The site is superb. It isn’t completely finished. The question many people have is: Did the city spend too much money, was there not enough in the way of fiscal prudence? Caren did say that “… according to Paul Sharman, there was a report completed on the Bateman costs etc. I got this first hand information from another resident who asked Paul Sharman directly at his Ward 5 meeting on Oct. 2nd. “
“Too many secrets and no transparency with this Mayor and council” said Caren
Let’s give this a couple of more weeks – say to the end of the month – to see what happens.
By Tom Parkin
October 16th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
They’re called “global tariffs,” but as the top supplier of steel, lumber and aluminum to the U.S., Canada is being hit harder than any other country. Is that the point?
When the latest Trump presidency started, Canada was both a large import source and already weak in the sectors he later targeted with global tariffs. And it raises the question whether Trump tariffed them because Canada’s vulnerabilities were in those sectors — that hitting them was his way to specifically target Canada. Counter-factually, it raises the question or what Trump might have done differently if our key industries were in stronger shape.Maybe that’s a bit conspiratorial. Or narcissistic for Canadians. But there is a pattern to at least consider.Trump has introduced significant global tariffs on steel, lumber, vehicles and aluminum. All those manufacturing sectors were already significant down before his tariffs, according to Statistics Canada’s Survey of Manufacturing for August, released on Wednesday.Canada’s recent manufacturing peak was in mid-2022. Some of that peak was possibly a rebound from shipping and production delays caused by COVID in 2020 and 2021. But 2023 and 2024 generally did not see improvements, except in the auto sector, which peaked in mid-2023 and has slid significantly since.StatsCan’s data on aluminum isn’t full enough to include as a chart with timeline and Wednesday’s report didn’t include August data for the industry. But data for July, 2025 showed the lowest month of production since at least January 2022. 
Steel, aluminum and lumber tariffs are attacks on CanadaBecause of Canada’s significant role as a supplier of manufactured goods to the United States, when Trump puts a global tariff on steel, lumber or aluminum he is hitting Canada far harder than any other country. Canada is the top provider of steel, lumber and aluminum to the United States.And that raises the question of whether the target is Canada and the selected “global” tariffs are just the mechanism of the attack. Further, if those global tariffs were selected for their impact of Canada, was the weakness of the sectors going into the Trump presidency the reason for their selection?Or is that all just a bit narcissistic of a Canadian to think taking production from Canada is a central pieces of Trump’s thinking? 
The auto industry export declineWhile the downturn in Canadian lumber, steel and aluminum has been more recent, the tumble in vehicle manufacturing has been more long term.Auto imports from Canada have been on a decline for more than a decade. From being the top U.S. provider in 2012, Canada was last year fourth. Passenger vehicles and light trucks imported from Canada fell form 2.1 million in 2012 to 1.1 million units last year. Vehicles assembled by Canadians comprised 30.2 of U.S. imports in 2012 falling to 13,3 per cent in 2024.Unlike the Canada focus of tariffs on aluminum, lumber and steel, Trump’s auto tariffs have a much more global scope. In auto, Mexico is the primary victim as its workers assembled 36.9 per cent of imported passenger vehicles and light trucks last year.
By Sadie Smith
October 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Paying for things in Burlington has changed fast. Tapping your phone, transferring money online, and paying bills in a few clicks; it has become normal. People like the fact that it is quick and easy. But with all this speed comes the question: Is it still safe? With the shift towards digital payments, securing individual data has never been more important.
 Just about everything is bought online and paid for electronically. When was the last time you paid cash for something? Faster Payments Are Part of Daily Life Now
Cash is quickly fading. The vast majority of people today tap their phone or swipe their card without giving it a second thought. Whether they’re buying lunch, groceries, or a coffee on the way to work, nobody wants to fumble with change anymore.
Online shopping is a good example of that. Instead of typing in card numbers every time, more people now use e-wallets that save their info. Buying something takes seconds, and it is easy to track where money’s going.
This shift shows up in entertainment, too. A lot of casino players now choose online casinos with instant withdrawal options. These sites mostly use digital wallets and crypto to speed things up, so players do not have to wait days to get their money. It makes the whole experience smoother and lets people stay focused on the games they play.
This is also the case with ride-sharing apps. Payments are made immediately following the trip, no questions asked. Drivers receive their tips quickly, and riders do not need to worry about carrying cash.
Local Shops Are Moving Faster Than Ever
The number of businesses in Burlington using real-time payments has grown. You enter a shop, swipe your card or phone, and you’re done. In the background, the money flows just as quickly. That is a big change from how things worked a few years ago.
 Interac is a uniquely Canadian product. The Americans have nothing like it. Local businesses today issue invoices that are paid immediately via Interac or direct transfers. It helps them stay on top of cash flow and avoid the delays that come with paper checks or old-school processing. In Canada, this sort of instant transfer is now a major component of the way businesses operate.
You can find it in public transport, as well. With Burlington Transit, people just tap and go. It speeds things up, especially during busy hours, and encourages more people to leave their car at home.
Of course, not every business can do it easily. Large stores have the budget to adopt the latest payment technology, but smaller ones sometimes struggle with setup costs or training.
Faster Payments, Bigger Security Risks
And as we make more use of fast payments digitally, the more we need to consider what can go wrong. In Burlington, as everywhere else, people are sending and receiving cash on the push of a screen. And when things are going this fast, scams and technology glitches can slip in equally quickly.
One big problem is fraud. Scammers know how to move quickly, too; they pretend to be someone you trust and then they ask for money via email or text message.
There is also the risk of weak or outdated devices. If your phone or payment machine is not updated regularly, it becomes an easier target. Hackers look for those gaps. And while the government is developing better safety guidelines, users still have to do their part by updating their apps and staying on secure networks.
How to Stay Safe While Paying Fast
If you are using digital payments daily in Burlington, there are a few small habits that can be helpful. Start by doing the basics: use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and do not share your login information with anyone.
Add alerts to your banking or payment applications to receive notifications for each transaction. So, even if something weird appears, you will know it instantly and be able to take action quickly.
Is the City Prepared for These Payment Changes?
 No reaching for a wallet. Everything is on a cell phone. Burlington seems ready for the shift; most of the services are already online, and businesses throughout the city have kept pace with recent payment technology. You pay for permits, for transit, for a coffee by just tapping, and it all just works quite seamlessly.
However, there is still room for improvement. Smaller vendors may need more help for their systems’ upgrade, while the city may need to invest in improving digital literacy programs to help people (especially older ones) feel more comfortable using these tools.
By Pepper Parr
October 15th,2025
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
City Council killed the current iteration of Sound of Music; a musical festival that entertained millions during the decades; they put on a great show that was free.
When it was evident that the city was going to put the boots to the ask submitted by the Sound of Music (give us more money and forgive our debts) I was a bit surprised when the city said they would put out a Request for Expressions of Interest; first thing that came to mind was: Is the fix already in?
In a media release, the city announced that:
 The City of Burlington is taking steps to ensure that a community-focused music festival remains part of Burlington’s waterfront experience. In the coming weeks, the City will issue an Expression of Interest (EOI) inviting event organizers to deliver a refreshed festival at Spencer Smith Park beginning in 2026 — one that continues to bring people together while reflecting the evolving needs and values of our community.
This next step is about renewal and continuity — building on a long-standing tradition while ensuring future events are inclusive, sustainable, and reflective of Burlington’s priorities. The City’s goal is to see a waterfront music festival continue to thrive in a way that evolves with the community and continues to bring people together for years to come.
The city put out a survey – the usual and expected questions were asked. The city said the feedback will play a vital role in shaping the future of music programming in Burlington and ensuring it continues to celebrate community, creativity, and connection.
To complete the survey, visit GetInvolvedBurlington.ca/MusicFestival. The survey will be open until Nov. 17, 2025.
The lingering question for me was: Who is there out there that could pull together a decent event for June of 2026 – eight months away?
If you think about it – and there are people both on Council and within the community, who have done a lot of thinking about this. While the EOI has yet to be released, there are people already talking to people about who could do what.
Does whoever comes forward have to be a not-for-profit? It would have more flexibility if it were an Ontario Business Corporation.
If there were experienced business people holding the equity, expect much better business decisions. People with money are not in the habit of losing money.
The Sound of Music was always terrible at governance.
Deciding if the city is going to do business with a new organization is not something the public should expect anything in the way of public engagement.
My take: The fix is already in.
By Gazette Staff
October 15th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Denise Davy, a multiple award winning journalist and human rights advocate, presents her deeply moving picture book, exquisitely illustrated by Bérengère Delaporte, depicting the life of a homeless person and the dawning understanding of her young benefactor.
 Davy will be at A Different Drummer Books on Saturday October 25th; 1:00 pm
Admission Free ~ Please Register
 Denise Davy with then Governor General Michaëlle Jean Reviews of the book have been strong from very credible sources. “A blueprint for compassion in action….a frank, age-appropriate introduction to housing insecurity, broaching complex systemic realities with digestible tenderness. An effective conversation starter.” –Kirkus Reviews
Admission is free, and all ages are welcome, but space is limited–please register at diffdrum@mac.com or (905) 639 0925. Thank you!
Davy was an active participant in the efforts to keep Bateman High School open.
By Gazette Staff
October 15th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Getting outdoors in the fall is one of the great Canadian experiences.
 The rustling of the leaves underfoot is as Canadian as the sound of a puck at an arena or the sound of a loon on a quiet lake. The Halton Outdoor Club (HOC) will be hosting its annual fall Information Fair at the Burlington Lions Club to help people get involved learning about some of the really fabulous locations.
speak with locals about how they can get involved and get moving – outside.
There is something for everyone: kayaking, cycling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and hiking. Lessons are part of the event, along with clinics; they plan to offer day trips for those interested.
The event will run from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 22, at the Burlington Lions Club – 471 Pearl Street.
By Gazette Staff
October 15th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Performing Arts Community Studio Theatre offers an intimate environment to enjoy your favourite acts up close.
Capped at just over 150 seats, this black box theatre is perfect for tucking away from the world, grabbing a glass of wine, and immersing yourself in an exceptional performance.
 The 25-26 Season includes several world-class productions in this beautiful space — check out what’s playing and join us!
Live & Local
With Hayley Verrall and Lucky Honey
Sun, Nov 2 | 4pm
Burlington-based country singer Hayley Verrall and rising indie-rock band Lucky Honey take the stage to showcase the best of local talent.
Tickets: HERE
By Gazette Staff
October 15th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
See this as early notice. And note that the Burlington Civic Chorale will be performing in the afternoon this year.
By Tom Parkin
October 15th,2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Unemployment is up in Canada, most sharply in Ontario, where joblessness has gone from 5.1 per cent to 7.9 per cent over the past 39 months.
At a moment when working families need a job creation plan to kick-start a struggling economy, federal Conservatives leader Pierre Poilievre is diverting people’s attention to the scapegoats historically used by conservatives to protect the status quo.
Poilievre is complaining about immigrants taking jobs.
Poilievre has recently called for expelling temporary foreign workers. Many temporary foreign worker programs were built to suppress wages. But Poilievre opportunistically hides behind that injustice, one conservative governments never cared about before, as he tries to conflate a demand to end an exploitative wage program with a push to expel immigrant workers.
And notice this is not a job creation plan. It’s a depopulation plan. It’s a claim that kicking out one working person will free up a job for someone else. But economics just doesn’t work that way — and if Poilievre doesn’t know it, he has smart people around him who do. They just doesn’t care.
Economists can explain the theory of why depopulation is a doomed economic policy. In short, it’s less people working and less people consuming. Depopulation shrinks GDP. Shrinking GDP kills jobs.
But the best explanations are from evidence. And right now, as Poilievre blames immigration for unemployment, the fact is Canada has had near-zero population growth for the past year — even as unemployment rises.
Statistics Canada estimates Canada’s population increased by only 389,000 people from July 31, 2024 to July 31, 2025. On a population of about 41.5 million, that’s less than one per cent annual growth. It’s like watching the population of a room increasing from 100 to 101 — over a year. It’s no change.
But though population has almost ceased, unemployment continues its climb.
Poilievre’s claim has the benefit of getting him off the hook for having not much of a job creation plan. And it helpfully gives permission to the small group of outright racists to push their race-war agenda under the pointy-hooded guise of Poilievre’s legitimate-sounding argument. Great job, Pierre, I’m sure they appreciate it.
But surely last weekend we all discussed our thanks for being in Canada — and not on the United States where division pushed by the president and his corrupt billionaire friends have everyone wondering whether the mid-term 2026 elections will even happen. Or when confrontations with hooded ICE agents will trigger mass violence. Or if what’s coming are even more catastrophic outcomes that lie on the trajectory they are travelling.
Emotions are running high in America, and when that starts, it doesn’t matter what the facts say. You can’t argue facts against a feeling. And that’s something to consider as we try to stop Canadians from getting swept into U.S. political currents.
Yes, the fact is Canada’s population growth is non-existent. That it may even show negative growth in Q4 2025. That we have controlled boarders. They we have processes to determine asylum cases from those that are not. That claims of “mass immigration” or “mass migration” are completely manufactured fantastical nonsense.
But the feelings don’t stop — not even in the people who may not feel happy or proud about having them. But they still do have them.
For us in Canada, our ability to resist being drawn into the MAGA nightmare rests heavily on developing feelings that displace the MAGA emotion, ones that instead build social solidarity.
Against those in Canada who pit worker against worker using zero-sum stories, pressing political leaders for their plan for job creation and renewed economic growth may be an important project of unity in diversity, of building feelings that we are all together in defending jobs and Canada.
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By Milan Welsch 
By Pepper Parr
By Gazette Staff
“To ensure that a community-focused music festival remains part of 
By Stephen Atcheler 
At the same time, films also remind us that romance is about effort and intention, not just dramatic flair. In 10 Things I Hate About You, Patrick wins over Kat not with material gifts but through persistence, humor, and a memorable serenade that speaks to her personality. In Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Darcy’s quiet yet powerful acts of kindness, such as helping Elizabeth’s family without seeking recognition, demonstrate that genuine care often occurs behind the scenes.
By Boris Dzhingarov
By Gazette Staff
Amin Massoudi, Atlas Strategic Advisors: Food Allergy Canada, Epilepsy Ontario
On Saturday, October 18, there will be no GO Transit service at Port Credit, Long Branch or Mimico GO. From 2:47 p.m. to 6:07 p.m. and 8:09 p.m. to 10:39 p.m., special trains will run between Union Station and Exhibition GO. 
By Sadie Smith
By Pepper Parr
The City of Burlington is taking steps to ensure that a community-focused music festival remains part of Burlington’s waterfront experience. In the coming weeks, the City will issue an Expression of Interest (EOI) inviting event organizers to deliver a refreshed festival at Spencer Smith Park beginning in 2026 — one that continues to bring people together while reflecting the evolving needs and values of our community.
Davy will be at A Different Drummer Books on Saturday October 25th; 1:00 pm
By Gazette Staff
By Gazette Staff
The 25-26 Season includes several world-class productions in this beautiful space — check out what’s playing and join us!
