 By Pepper Parr
May 2nd, 2025
Kilbride, ON
On Sunday, April 27th at 4 pm, a group of about 25 people gathered outside the Kilbride United Church waiting to hear the church bell ring to remember Marianne Schuett. She was abducted in 1967 and was never found.
The resulting search for Marianne was one of the largest in Ontario’s history, with an estimated 18,000 people involved in attempts to find her. Despite repeated and ongoing search efforts, Marianne has not yet been found.
 Class Photo, Kilbride Public School. Marianne Schuett.: Second row, second from the left Marianne had just a five minute walk from the school to her home at 2291 Kilbride Street. Witnesses came forward to say that they had seen her talking to a man in a dark-model European vehicle facing east, not far from the school exit. Ron Eden, who lived in Kilbride and was a passenger in a car driving west towards Carlisle, said he noticed the vehicle immediately.
“I’ve never seen that car before in the village,” he said to his fellow passengers as they approached the intersection in front of the school. Ron admits that he didn’t personally see Marianne as he was so distracted by the unusual model of the vehicle—the driver, Leonard Bodz, and Leonard’s wife in the backseat both saw Marianne standing at the car. A fourth witness, a teacher, said she had seen Marianne walk around to the passenger side of the door of the same vehicle and get in. The driver then took off in the direction of Marianne’s home, but drove past her home without stopping. Artist renditions of both the man and vehicle circulated, with police believing that the vehicle was most likely a Renault.
 Dave and Steve Schuett are sitting on the bench dedicated to their sister. There is a black iron bench with “Remembering Marianne Schuett” inscribed, was unveiled at a private ceremony lead by Helen Callaway of the Kilbride History Group, close to the location Marianne was last seen. The bench serves as a memorial to a little girl described as quiet and shy, and unlikely to get into a stranger’s vehicle. It is also a reminder of how even the smallest of communities can be affected by terrible tragedy.
Fundraising for the bench was raised through efforts of the Kilbride History Group and many community donors, including Marianne’s brothers, Dave and Steve Schuett.
Helen Callaway works with Co-chair Tina Ditoro planning and arranging the now annual ringing the bell event.
Bev Mehlenbacher was a student at the same school as Marianne. “I didn’t know her very well. Today I work as a crossing guard; something that didn’t exist when I was a student.”
The Schuett family had moved to Kilbride in 1965, just two years before the abduction. They were members of the Holy Cross Lutheran Church on Lakeshore Road in Burlington, and their pastor, the Rev. Herbert Hockbush, was one of the many out searching through the bush. Angry sentiments ran high through the community, with young and old equally affected. Children came with their parents to help search, and an elderly woman armed with a shotgun showed up, stating that she just wanted to “blast the so-and-so who took Marianne.” She was thanked for her offer but consoled and turned away.
When the search teams failed to find their daughter, Marianne’s parents wrote a desperate plea to the abductor in a letter published in The Hamilton Spectator:
“We beg you with all our heart to phone or write us a few words to tell us where she is. We promise on everything we hold dear we will not show the police your letter or tell them of your call. If Marianne is alive, let her go, and tell us where we can find her. If she is dead, let us know where we can find her. We will never identify you no matter what has happened. It is too terrible not knowing. Please phone us or write to us. Her brothers can’t go on not knowing where she is and our hearts are breaking. We have to know. Please be merciful and let our prayers be answered.”
Why Marianne chose to risk getting in an unknown vehicle is one of the mysteries of the case, and something that has always perplexed the Schuett family who said she was especially wary of ‘stranger danger.’
The day she disappeared, she’d turned down a ride home from the mother of a classmate, Cindy Muirhead, with whom she’d stayed a half hour late at school working on a project. “I’m just around the corner,” Marianne said. Cindy herself had been stopped by a man in a ‘classic car’ a few weeks earlier and asked for directions to the Cayuga Race Track, nowhere near Kilbride.
 Steve Schuett rings the Kilbride United Church bell 10 times during the gathering of residents on Sunday. Marianne Schuett was abducted when she was 10 years old Although Steve, Marianne’s younger brother, was just five at the time she went missing, her disappearance has been a weight on his shoulders. He has seen many searches with renewed hope at finding his sister, but there have been no firm clues other than a single blue running shoe found near Speyside, the day after she was taken.
A suspect was identified but took his own life in 1991 prior to police being able to question or arrest him. An article published by The Hamilton Spectator on Feb. 16, 1991, a month after his suicide, revealed that the subject—described as Mr. X—had purchased a 1967 Renault three days before Marianne went missing, and that it was only one of three such vehicles in Ontario. The article reported that the suspect was brought to police attention in 1972 after he attempted to abduct a 14-year-old girl from Burlington and in 1990 more information came to light. “Last Christmas,” The Hamilton Spectator reported, “police received new information that Mr. X had repeatedly sexually assaulted two young girls over a seven-year period.”
The suspect’s suicide note made no reference to Marianne, or her final resting place. He was married with children, seemingly living a double life.
Marianne was born on September 29, 1956. The Schuett family lived on Oak Street in Hespeler, and Marianne attended kindergarten at Centennial Public School before they moved to Kilbride in 1965. Her older brother, David, was fifteen when his sister went missing.
“Growing up, well she wanted to hang around with her older brother,” Dave Schuett said in a phone interview in November 2021. “Mom and Dad said, ‘when you go out to play, you’ve got to take your little sister with you.’ So, I did.”
At the time of the abduction, Dave was going to school in Burlington. “She did have a few friends that she hung around with,” he said. “They would come to our house, or she would go over to theirs. We had some games at home, Monopoly and that kind of thing … she liked to play those … one game that she really liked, I believe it was called Candy Land. She really, really, liked that game.”
Dave says that the mystery of why she got in the vehicle has always been one of the hardest things to understand.
“That is a big mystery to me because we had friends of the family who would come to visit us from time to time and she knew them … she knew them very well, and at least once or twice as she was walking home from school they would be coming to our house and they would drive by and go, ‘hey, do you want a ride home?’ And she knew them very well and she’d go, ‘Nope.’ She wouldn’t even get in the car with friends of the family. That begs the question, why would she get in with somebody else? Unless you were forced, you know?”
Mr. X. was found dead in a Hamilton house in January 1991 taking with him any answers the family had hoped for.
Marianne’s father, Milton Schuett, passed away in 1999 without knowing what had happened to his daughter. On the morning of February 1, 2022, just three months after the most recent search for her daughter, Marianne’s mother, Ethel, also passed away. It is hoped that one day Marianne will be found and that the mystery of her disappearance will come full circle. The most recent searches have been led by Linda Gillis Davidson (ex-RCMP), and Gord Collins (ex-Peel Regional Police) who have brought the search for Marianne Schuett back to the headlines.
If you have information about the abduction of Marianne Schuett we urge you to contact any of the following:
Halton Regional Police Service: 1-905-825-4777, Reference Case#: 67-MP-00036
Crime Stoppers: 1-800-222-TIPS(8477), https://www.canadiancrimestoppers.org/tips
Email to the National Centre for Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains at: canadasmissing-disparuscanada@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Linda Gillis Davidson: 705-641-0768 or llgdavidson@gmail.com
A private Facebook page, administered by friends and family of the Schuetts, is also available to discuss her case. https://www.facebook.com/groups/270997185033374
 By Staff
May 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The CBC Ideas crew was in Burlington late in March to record a broadcast for CBC radio,
The program went live on April 24th. The following is who said what to who; it turned out to be an exceptional look at how the library works internally and the role they feel they play in keeping our democracy alive while battling misinformation and disinformation, while the country was in the middle of an existential federal election.
I’m Nahlah Ayed – welcome to our series, Ideas for a better Canada today from Burlington, Ontario, and how we as a country revitalize our democracy?
 Lita Barrie (CEO, Burlington Public Library), Sabreena Delhon (CEO, The Samara Centre for Democracy), Meg Uttangi Matsos (Director, Service Design & Innovation, BPL), Nahlah Ayed (Host, CBC’s IDEAS), and Ira Wells (Professor, University of Toronto, critic & author).
This is a forum dedicated to intellectual freedom and democracy. What those terms mean and why they’re related. That’s what we’re here to discuss, because libraries have become a target in the culture wars of the United States and here in Canada too. Let’s start right here at this library whose story in this community dates back to 1872. With me are two members of the Burlington Public Library team. Can you introduce yourselves and tell me what it is that you do at the library?
My name is Lita Barrie, the CEO here at Burlington Public Library – I work with our community and our municipality to make sure that we’re continuing to offer library services and collections that are relevant and meet the needs of everyone that we serve.
 Nahlah Ayed NA: Public libraries have been in the news quite a lot lately. In February here in Canada, local politicians in Valley View Alberta voted at a closed door meeting to close and move a small public library to a school, thereby restricting access to it.
In the United States, on March 14, an executive order by the Trump administration cut down an agency that provides federal funding for libraries there. They seem unconnected, but in both cases, these events were preceded by political objections to the contents of a library. .
NA: Does any of this surprise you at all?
LB: It absolutely surprises me. I didn’t expect to be in this moment where core values and concepts like intellectual freedom would be challenged at such a base level in so many different ways. I think as a sector we are really trying to rise to the opportunity and really reinforce the core role that libraries play in terms of upholding our democracy and how critical intellectual freedom is as one of our core values.
NA: Let’s, talk about that. As you say, intellectual freedom is a core value of public libraries, and it’s baked right into your official policy. What does it promise?
LB: I think that is really one of the pieces that’s being questioned: Is the lack of, potentially across our democracy, a shared understanding of what intellectual freedom means, that idea that everyone should have the right to access information and at the same time, that shared right and responsibility that none of us has the role to dictate how someone else might choose to select or access information. As an institution, we try and balance those two roles.
NA: What do you do here?
Meg Uttangi Matsos (Director, Service Design & Innovation, what that actually means is I work in our branches, offering customer service and the resources and the team that works with our digital resources and collections department. So that’s all of the items that you see in the library or online when you’re looking for material at the library.
 We don’t want to build a collection that just sits on our shelves. NA: So do you guys actually choose the books and materials, keeping in mind the idea of intellectual freedom. How is it that you make your decisions?
MU: We’re not working in a vacuum; we are using a lot of different tools. We use reviewing media, we use bibliographies. We have conversations with the publishing industry, with other libraries. We’re talking about the authoritative nature of some of the sources that we are looking at.
MU: And then we think about the different needs of our community. What are people looking for in our community? What are they actually reading? We don’t want to build a collection that just sits on our shelves. We want to build a collection that people are interested in borrowing and taking home. We use a lot of data around that as well. When we look at the breadth of our collection, we are trying to think about. What is the information people want from an opposing viewpoint. We’re trying to fill gaps within our collection around that that as well.
 Burlington Public Library CEO Lita Barrie NA: Your answer kind of suggests that maybe there’s a constant reviewing process as well, of what is on your shelves. What if a book isn’t being borrowed?
MU: We look at how that book communicates the content. Is it local to our region, and do we want to keep it because it’s unique? There are a lot of things that are considered. A glimpse of the diversity of voices that appear on our shelves is shown on the online BPL catalogue lists. For example, the book by infectious disease expert Dr Anthony Fauci, who promoted public health efforts and vaccinations in the US during the COVID 19 pandemic is on our shelves; the library also carries a recent book by Robert F Kennedy Jr, that argues that Anthony Fauci was part of a global conspiracy and questions the efficacy of vaccines. As you can imagine, the community comments are very lively.
NA: Why include both books in your collection?
MU: I think if we don’t have both books, we don’t have that broad understanding of both scopes of that topic. People are interested in reading both sides of that topic, whether they agree with it or not. They want to know what’s being said. I think one of the fundamental things that we do in the library is we don’t judge beforehand how somebody is going to read a book. We have the information available. We have it so that people can read it and receive the information that’s in it, and then they can determine for themselves how they’re going to respond to that information. If we remove some of those items, we don’t give people the opportunity to experience the full scope of the issue.
NA: How often have you heard a complaint about either of those books?
MU: We probably see more of the comments in our catalogue than official complaints.
NA: I understand that when you receive a complaint, you actually use the word democracy. And I’m wondering, one, how that sits with the complainants, and two explain why you go that deeply into the reasoning behind what you’re doing?
 Freedom of thought, freedom of of expression, are really this concept of choice and access, and those are such important pieces in democracy. MU: I think the key things around freedom of thought, freedom of of expression, are really this concept of choice and access, and those are such important pieces in democracy. I think when you’re living in a community where there is the ability to see people around you that are not like you, you want to be able to interact in a place where you have lots of choice and lots of different viewpoints, and the ability to access those materials as well. I think those are kind of the parts that connect it back to democracy.
NA: Of course we’ve heard the stories across North America, about LGBTQ plus themed books that in particular face customer challenges. Can you both talk about, the kinds of things you would consider in reviewing a complaint about those books as well.
LB: I think one of the reasons these conversations are so important is as a society, haven’t given enough space to talking about the whys of these collections.
LB: As much as we open that choice, and particularly as it relates to our children’s material, we also recognize that the parent has the right and the responsibility to determine what they would like their child to access from the library. But concurrent with that right is they don’t have the right to dictate what another parent might choose for their own child. Across the US, and some of the concerns that we’re seeing across Canada is this idea that that having that item in the collection is creating harm amongst children. And really what we want to do, and Meg led with this, is we want to make sure that everyone sees themselves in the collection, that there is something in our collection that really speaks to everyone’s experience.
LB: I think another piece that we’re really thinking about is what it means to have material on display from a values perspective. Intellectual freedom is one of our core values, and inclusion is one of our core values. So what we choose to display in the library is really about supporting that concept that everyone is welcome. And I think in this moment, we’ve really been reflecting internally that having something on display is not necessarily a harm.
LB: We’re never going to force you to read anything. You get to decide what you read, but we’re going to work on the premise that walking by a book that you disagree with is actually not an act that’s going to be harmful, and to hold those two things as separate, I think some of the complaints and the concerns that we’re seeing across North America sort of conflating those two pieces that by even just seeing the book that it’s causing harm.
LB: I think in this cultural moment we’re in, so many of us have phones in our pockets and we are so used to, through our social media algorithms, being able to swipe the second we find something that we don’t agree with, we’re used we’re used to being able to control what we see and making sure that what we see aligns with our values.
LB: I think we’re really seeing that in our branches how that’s translating into real life. There’s no real-life manifestation of the swipe except for the complaint process.
 First of all, it’s a picture book. So it is designed in a way to be fun, colourful. It is based on a song, “If you’re happy and you know it”. NA: I want to anchor this in an example, because I didn’t give one. The book that that I was going to mention is: “If you’re a drag queen, and you know it”, is a children’s picture book written by the founder of drag queen story time.
NA: What if someone came to you with a complaint about that book, which I understand some have; what it is that you outline in terms of the necessity of having that book in your shelves,
MU: First of all, it’s a picture book. So it is designed in a way to be fun, colourful. It is based on a song, “If you’re happy and you know it”. A lot of the themes within the book are really meant to be something that a parent could interact with their child, or that the child could interact with themselves in a fun way.
NA: In terms of the that concept, why would somebody ask us to not have that book in the library.
MU: I think in so many ways, people are looking at it through a single lens. They’re looking at it through I wouldn’t want my child to read that, so why would I let other people read that? Or they’re looking at it through a – this might teach my child about something that I don’t want them to learn about. I think what’s missing in that is there are different styles of learning. There’s different styles of parenting, and there’s different ways that people access pieces of that knowledge. So in terms of like that particular book, I think it’s that just because one person doesn’t feel it’s right for them, it doesn’t mean that other parents don’t feel that it’s right for their children, and the fact that we have something like that in the library means we are able to provide that choice to our community
LB: Our process is really ensuring that people feel heard and listened to, and that they have an opportunity to share their position about why they might disagree with us having a particular author, and from that point, being able to really have that conversation about why, and acknowledging that not all of our events are intended for everyone in the community.
LB: It comes back to that premise of not precluding other people from having that experience, and what we can all learn as a community by getting a little bit more comfortable with listening to perspectives that might be different than our own, and listening to lived experience that might be very different from our own as well.
NA: How do you navigate those conversations? As you say, it’s intellectual. It’s a challenging notion to persuade someone who maybe isn’t predisposed to accepting the idea of having to hear in opposing point of view.
LB: The core piece of that is just acknowledgement and empathy
We don’t try and challenge if someone feels hurt or sad about something that we have in the collection. First and foremost, we start by acknowledging that we’re never trying to challenge someone else’s feelings about another book or something that we’re doing in the collection. We’re not saying that their feelings are invalid or not true. And that really often creates a great place to be able to then listen to someone else’s concerns and, in turn, sort of share some of our rationale or reasoning for offering an event or offering an item in the collection, and at the end of the day, some of those conversations, they don’t necessarily end with someone being on board with our choice or really excited about what we’re doing, but we’re coming back to that place of mutual respect and being able to acknowledge someone else’s experience and hopefully have have left them with a sense of being heard, an increased understanding of what we’re trying to accomplish through the work that we’re doing in community.
NA: Could this way that you look at books and navigating these differences inform the rest of us in society.
 This isn’t something that just comes easily. MU: Sure, the first place it’s uncomfortable. This isn’t something that just comes easily, and we don’t always get it right. I think part of it is being brave to engage in some conversations, sometimes being brave to stand in your own values or the values that you believe in. But then I think in terms of what we do at the library is seeing others as humans, treating people with dignity and respect, regardless of what the argument that they is or the or the belief system they have. We treat privacy and impartiality as really important in the library as well. The idea of passing judgment on someone just because they happen to take a certain book out of the library; that’s not part of what we learn in our core – it is not something that we want to be doing. We choose to be patient with others. Treat people with respect and listen.
 NA: Finally, when we’re thinking about the next iteration of our democracy, this is an opportunity to make the argument, why do public libraries deserve the understanding and support personal beliefs?
LB: Again, did I ever expect to be in this moment. No, but I think if we see what’s happening across North America we can see how important it is for us to connect in person to each other when we talk about some of these issues. There is so much that we have gained from our online world, but there is so much that just needs to happen in person, and we are really one of the few public services that is a lifespan service. People are welcome within our doors from the day they are born throughout their entire lifetime, and that is really a unique privilege that we have in community, and I can’t think of a more important time to have libraries thriving across our country.
LB: We are also a place where you are going to have that kind of friction with other people in your community. Where else do you have that in your community where you can come in, you’re welcome and you’re going to see other folks in your community? It’s really an important part of our society.
 By Staff
May 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
On April 29, Halton Region Public Health was made aware of a confirmed case of measles that has led to potential exposures in Halton on April 26 and 27.
 Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads easily through the air. Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads easily through the air.
Individuals may have been exposed to the measles virus at the following locations on the dates listed below:
Halton Family Health Centre (whole building), 2951 Walkers Line Unit B, Burlington, on Saturday, April 26 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Halton Medix Clinic Milton, 100 Bronte St. S Unit 2, Milton, on Sunday, April 27 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Visitors to these locations during the times noted should:
- Check your immunization records to make sure you and any people who accompanied you have up-to-date measles vaccinations (two doses are recommended for anyone born on or after January 1, 1970). Your immunization record (yellow card) or your doctor can provide this information.
- Those who are not immune, infants under one year of age, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems can get very ill with measles. They should immediately contact Halton Region Public Health or their health care professional for further assessment.
- If you think you may have measles and need to see a doctor, you must call ahead to the doctor’s office, walk-in clinic, or emergency department. This will allow health care staff to take the necessary precautions to reduce the risk of infection and protect others visiting the office, clinic, or hospital.
- Watch for symptoms of measles for 21 days after exposure.
Symptoms can appear 7 to 21 days after contact with someone with the measles virus. Measles symptoms may include:
- fever
- cough
- runny nose
- red eyes
- sleepiness
- irritability
- small, white spots on the inside of the mouth (Koplik Spots)
- a red blotchy rash that first starts on the face and spreads down the body, arms, and legs (this rash can last 4 to 7 days)
“Measles is a serious and highly contagious illness, but it is preventable with vaccination,” said Dr. Deepika Lobo, Medical Officer of Health for Halton Region. “We are reminding residents who may have been exposed to review their immunization records and monitor for symptoms. Vaccination remains the best protection, and we urge all residents, especially families with young children, to ensure their immunizations are current.”
 By Emily
May 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The evolution of technology in sports field maintenance marks a significant shift from manual methods to more sophisticated solutions. The introduction of innovative tools has greatly enhanced the precision and consistency of field markings. This evolution not only benefits professional sports but also elevates the quality of local games and events, setting new benchmarks in field maintenance.
 The Turf tank will save hours of manual labour and get it right the first time. The sports industry is rapidly evolving, with technology playing a pivotal role in transforming traditional practices. As sporting events demand higher standards of precision, maintaining field accuracy has become crucial for both players and spectators. In this context, modern advancements, such as the line marking machine, are redefining how sports fields are maintained, ensuring that every line and marking meets exacting standards.
The Role of advanced equipment in maintaining sports fields
Advanced equipment has revolutionized the way sports fields are maintained, offering unprecedented accuracy and efficiency. By incorporating cutting-edge technology, groundskeepers can achieve precise markings that were once difficult to attain manually. This precision ensures that every game is played on an even and accurately marked surface, which is essential for fair play and optimal performance.
One key innovation is the use of robotic systems designed specifically for field marking. These systems utilize sensors and GPS technology to deliver consistent results across various types of sports surfaces. These tools represent a leap forward in field maintenance, providing reliability and ease of use that surpasses traditional methods.
The benefits of these innovative solutions extend beyond mere accuracy. They also reduce the time and labor required for field preparation, allowing maintenance teams to focus on other critical aspects of event management. Moreover, the use of such technology enhances the professionalism of local sports events, giving them a competitive edge.
Embracing innovation for consistent results
 Hand-held tablet offers thousands of designs that direct the Turf Tank: baseball, football, soccer. Any sport. The adoption of advanced tools ensures that fields are prepared to meet international standards, making them suitable for high-profile competitions. This boosts the confidence of athletes who rely on well-marked fields and enhances the viewing experience for spectators who expect nothing less than excellence.
Technology’s impact on sports field maintenance is undeniable, offering benefits that resonate throughout the sporting community. Consistent markings contribute to better gameplay by eliminating discrepancies that can affect athlete performance. For spectators, this attention to detail translates into a more enjoyable and immersive experience.
By investing in modern solutions, sports organizations can uphold their reputation for delivering top-notch events while optimizing operational efficiency. Emphasizing technological advancements reinforces a commitment to quality and innovation in the sporting world.
The Future of sports field precision
Adopting modern technology for sports field maintenance offers numerous advantages that go beyond just visual appeal. These advancements promote accuracy, consistency, and efficiency—key elements that enhance both player performance and spectator satisfaction.
As you explore innovative solutions to improve field precision, consider how embracing technology can transform your approach to sports field management. With continued advancements on the horizon, staying ahead in this dynamic industry requires a commitment to integrating state-of-the-art tools into your operations.
 By Staff
May 1, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
For nearly two months, in an art series titled ”Pax Americana” — or American Peace — Dara Vandor has been putting up fictitious, historical plaques that imagine what Toronto may look like if there ever was a future invasion by the U.S.
Her signs mimic the ones created by Heritage Toronto, complete with a short blurb on the historical significance of the imaginary site. From sniper’s nests near the CN Tower to “tennis court war rooms” where insurgents gathered and planned counterattacks without arousing suspicion, Vandor has imagined a grim future for the city. The artist imagines a U.S. invasion in the not-so-distant future.
The full story appears in the Toronto Star.
 A new 1812 Act – what happened to Canada Strong  One of five plaques created by and put in place by Toronto artist Dara Vandor.
 By Ray Rivers
April 30th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
Be careful what you ask for. Mr. Poilievre had wanted a ‘change’ election and the voters in his riding made his wish a reality. According to his Liberal opponent, Bruce Fanjoy, Poilievre had taken his constituents for granted while Fanjoy worked hard for their support. That this is the kind of rural riding which typically supports the Conservatives makes the Tory leader’s loss all that much more noteworthy.
Poilievre is an impressive speaker but having spent all his ammunition taking down Justin Trudeau became gob-smacked when it came to the main campaign issue, Donald Trump. But then nothing in his resume has equipped him to deal with the tariff challenge. Mr. Poilievre has spent his life out of the real world, either as a politician or a backroom political operative. Even Trudeau had held a real job as a teacher, by comparison.
On Tuesday Canadians chose someone with the kind of experience they felt was needed to lead the country through this existential crisis. Recognized as an accomplished and successful corporate leader, Mr. Carney had headed up one of the world’s, largest pension investment companies with over US$900 billion in assets.
 Mark Carney: An Oxford trained economist. An Oxford trained economist, Carney successfully played a leadership role in the fight against inflation and recession – Canada’s economic crisis of 2008 and the UK’s BREXIT transition. But perhaps just as important is his professional association with world leaders including those in the UK, France, and even the US president. In the end Canadians voted for competence – qualification and experience.
For the most important job in the land – CEO of Canada – Canadians voted for merit.
The word on the street is that the Tory leader will seek another riding, likely in Conservative safe Alberta but not until a by-election can be arranged. His caustic voice will not be missed in Parliament in the meantime. Also missing from the Commons will be the NDP leader Singh, who placed third in his own riding, and has decided to call it quits.
This election has demonstrated the challenges of third parties in our first-past-the-post electoral system. The NDP had been a merger of the socialist CCF with Canada’s organized labour movement. That is a potentially powerful political alliance given that nearly one in three workers in Canada is covered by a union contract.
But labour has become an unfaithful partner for the NDP. Mr. Poilievre is one of those Conservatives who relates better to the workers than their bosses. Following in the footsteps Donald Trump, he spent considerable effort attracting the blue collar vote. It is an interesting scenario that would see a right wing politician appealing to the blue collar crowd. Somehow tax cutting proposals, intended primarily for the well off, have became an issue the working person could get behind. And of course there were the vacuous promises about affordability.
And his efforts paid off. Fourteen Canadian labour unions and organizations, including several police associations, rewarded the Tories with their support. They even won ridings in labour rich Windsor and Hamilton. The Liberals have also benefitted from labour union support over time, and the largest labour union in Quebec opted to endorse the Bloc in this election.
 Elizabeth May – the only Green in the House of Commons. The Green Party had it’s platform stolen by Justin Trudeau back a decade ago and in the end only Elizabeth May managed to be elected, largely on her personal popularity. The libertarian People’s Party has never won a seat, even after running candidates in most ridings across the country.
With the other opposition parties now in relative disarray, the Bloc has suggested something like a truce – to give the Liberals at least a year in order to keep Trump from crashing through the border. The Greens lost their co-leader and the NDP have lost both their leader and their formal party status. They will need to assess their relevance as political parties at this time – and whether they might better serve their supporters as a wing or movement within either of the two main parties.
 Pierre Poilievre: nothing in his resume has equipped him to deal with the tariff challenge. It’ll take time to see if Mr. Poilievre comes back or ends up as just another disposable leader in a party frustrated in it’s ambition to become Canada’s natural governing party. Meanwhile, Mr. Carney will have his hands full fighting for Canadian unity against a mischievous US president while dodging grenades from the disgruntled partisan separatists in Alberta.
These western separatists, representing the wealthiest provinces in the union, are threatening to leave Canada only because they hate Liberals. If only there were a Conservative party leader who could knock some sense into its huge western base. But then, that might help the new PM in his efforts to unite the country?
 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
 By Staff
April 30th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Ontario government is proposing changes to strengthen the bail system and protect communities by keeping violent repeat offenders off the streets and behind bars. These proposed reforms would strengthen the collection process for forfeited bail, introduce permanent Intensive Serious Violent Crime Bail Teams, support a comprehensive review of the bail system and move towards the establishment of user fees for people convicted or accused of a crime who use provincially administered ankle monitors.
 ‘Stop being a bunch of bleeding hearts’: Ford slams Ottawa over bail laws again. “The current bail system is letting violent, repeat offenders back into our communities and onto our streets, at times just days after they have been arrested and accused of serious crimes,” said Premier Doug Ford. “Enough is enough. We’re cracking down with tougher rules, stronger enforcement and faster action to keep repeat offenders behind bars, where they belong. We’re also calling on the newly elected federal government to join us by strengthening bail to protect victims of crime.”
Ontario is taking action to strengthen the bail system while continuing to advocate forcefully for the federal government to do the same, given its jurisdiction over criminal law. The actions Ontario is proposing, which will be introduced later this week, include:
- Legislative changes that would improve and increase the collection of forfeited bail monies by requiring sureties to provide up-to-date information in accordance with future regulations
- Introducing permanent Intensive Serious Violent Crime Bail Teams (ISVCBTs), made up of dedicated prosecutors who work with provincial and local police services to present the most persuasive case possible at a bail hearing in the case of serious and violent crimes, with a priority on repeat and prolific accused persons, including those charged with firearm offences. ISVCBTs also follow up with police service’s bail compliance units, checking to ensure there have been no unreported breaches and that dangerous criminals are complying with their bail conditions
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 Those out of jail on bail will be required to pay for the GPS ankle monitors; waiting to hear how that works out. Working towards the establishment of a new user fee system for those subject to GPS ankle monitoring as determined by the courts as a condition of bail or release, with the funds potentially used to offset program costs or support victim services. The proposed changes would also help police access GPS information from this program for the purpose of monitoring people accused of or convicted of a crime
- A comprehensive review of the bail system to make it more consequential and effective, including reviewing how to support better tracking of repeat offenders and improved administration.
“Our government is cracking down on crime by strengthening our bail system,” said Attorney General Doug Downey. “We are giving prosecutors the tools they need to hold violent and repeat offenders accountable — with stronger bail teams, tighter monitoring and faster action in the courts, we are ensuring the justice system works to protect Ontario and keep communities safe.”
 Ontario continues to urgently amend the Criminal Code by introducing concrete changes that will tighten bail legislation. Ontario continues to urgently amend the Criminal Code by introducing concrete changes that will tighten bail legislation to protect public safety and keep repeat and violent offenders off the streets.
“Our government is taking decisive action to Protect Ontario and improve public safety on our streets and in our communities,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “Our government has been a leader in advocating for meaningful reform of Canada’s bail system. Until reform becomes reality, we will continue to support the efforts of law enforcement so they have the tools and resources needed to get violent offenders behind bars where they belong.”
“Everybody in Ontario deserves to live in communities that are free from the scourge of violence,” said Associate Solicitor General, Zee Hamid. “By strengthening enforcement, improving tracking and introducing specialized teams, our government is ensuring violent, repeat offenders face tougher consequences. These changes empower law enforcement and protect Ontario’s communities, reflecting our government’s unwavering commitment to keep criminals behind bars and Protect Ontario.”
 By Eric Stern
April 30th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
On Sunday, I had the opportunity to visit the Royal Botanical Gardens Arboretum (RBG).
 Sakura Cherry blossoms at RBG The Sakura Cherry blossoms are beautiful and a short walk from the parking lot.
Parking is limited, but you don’t need to reserve in advance yet. Once the lilacs are out, reserved parking will be required.
 Turtles are out. For the more adventurous, the turtles were out catching some rays.
The Daffodils are out.
The Juncos are nesting near Raspberry House.
 They gather beneath the Sakura Cherry blossom trees at Spencer Smith Park – a gift from Japan many years ago.
 By Staff
April 30th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Prime Minister Mark Carney’s triumph in Canada’s election this week is that rare political event that really can be explained quite simply. The formula comes in two parts.
By taking over as party leader, Carney rid the Liberals of the deeply unpopular former prime minister, Justin Trudeau, who left power — under pressure but wisely — knowing he was on the verge of sending his storied party into the wilderness. A rather staid, centrist investment banker, more technocrat than politician, Carney offered a stark contrast to the charismatic but increasingly scorned Trudeau. If the country wanted change, Carney would allow the incumbent party to provide it.
 Prime Minister explaining how he will govern the country. But this alone would not have been enough. It is no exaggeration to say that Carney’s victory was enabled by President Donald Trump, whose taunts about turning Canada into the 51st state led Canadians to a new appreciation for their nation’s identity, history and distinctiveness. Trump’s punishing tariffs married their anger to fear, which Carney answered by campaigning under the banner of “Canada strong.” If there was an economic battle to be waged, who better than the former head of the central banks in both Canada and Britain to marshal his nation to the financial barricades?
“Elbows up” is a hockey term for fighting when fighting is required. It became Carney’s battle cry. In a kitschy but effective campaign ad, Carney appeared at a hockey rink with comedian Mike Myers, who proved his Canadian credentials as Carney put him through a national trivia quiz.
Then it was Myers’s turn. “But let me ask you, Mr. Prime Minister, will there always be a Canada?”
Carney’s stern, determined reply: “There will always be a Canada.”
“All right!” Myers replied brightly. “Elbows up!”
 By David Buser
April 30th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 Finding a safe way to fund an online casino account is still a challenge for many Canadians. The online gambling industry offers many payment options that promise security. Yet, not all deliver the speed and reliability needed for smooth deposits and quick withdrawals. Interac, a trusted Canadian solution, stands out. It combines strong protection, efficiency, and simplicity. In this article, we will explore what Interac is and explain how it supports Canadian casino players. Read on to discover its main advantages and any drawbacks compared to other methods.
What is Interac and How Does It Work?
Interac is a Canadian payment network. It connects personal bank accounts directly to businesses, service providers, and now, Interac casinos in Canada. Created in the 1980s, it has become a popular payment method across the country.
When users pick Interac as a payment method at an online casino, the system links their bank account directly to the casino’s. No sensitive banking details are shared with the casino. Transactions move fast through the user’s online banking platform. Deposits appear almost instantly. Withdrawals usually complete within 24 hours, depending on the casino’s processing times.
Today, many Canadian casinos that accept Interac promote it right at the top of their online casino payment pages. It fits the real needs of Canadian players who expect fast and secure transactions when it comes to choosing the best Interac casinos.
The Advantages of Using Interac for Online Casino Payments
Interac is a leading choice for many reasons. It combines the key qualities users seek when handling money online. Here are the major advantages of using Interac casino payments:
Secure and Safe Transactions
Security is critical when transferring money online. Interac uses top-tier encryption methods. It also relies on the security protocols of Canadian banks. This creates two strong layers of protection: one from Interac and one from your bank.
Fraud monitoring tools work non-stop in the background. This makes unauthorized access extremely rare. In a time where cybercrime remains a real threat, strong protections are essential.
 Fast and Convenient Deposits and Withdrawals
Speed matters. Delays in deposits or payouts can cause frustration for users. Interac processes deposits within minutes. This means casino accounts are ready for play almost immediately.
Withdrawals move fast too. Though casino reviews can add minor delays, Interac often sends funds back to bank accounts within 24 hours. Compared to outdated options like wire transfers, this is a significant upgrade.
Choosing casinos that accept Interac may improve both deposit speed and withdrawal satisfaction.
Low Fees and Transparent Costs
Money management remains important. Interac generally charges very low fees. In fact, many Interac casino sites offer to cover transaction costs for users.
There are no hidden service fees with Interac transactions. Before signing up, it is wise to review the casino’s fee structure. However, most top online casinos that accept Interac keep costs friendly for users.
Widely Accepted by Canadian Online Casinos
Interac is accepted across the majority of online casinos focused on Canadian users. It is uncommon to find a serious platform that doesn’t list Interac among its payment methods.
This broad acceptance eliminates the need for additional third-party accounts. Funds move directly from a Canadian bank account to the casino wallet for deposits and withdrawals.
Works Directly with Canadian Banks
Nearly every major Canadian bank supports Interac. Whether users bank with RBC, TD, Scotiabank, or smaller local institutions, Interac fits into the banking structure easily. No additional apps are needed. No lengthy registration processes exist. This natural connection between banks and casinos helps users trust Interac casino payments.
How to Use Interac for Online Casino Payments
 Setting up and using Interac is simple. Follow these simple steps:
- Register at a casino that accepts Interac: Set up an account and complete any necessary verification checks.
- Visit the cashier or banking page: Select Interac from the list of deposit methods.
- Enter your deposit amount: Specify how much you want to transfer.
- Authenticate through your online banking: Approve the transaction with your bank’s secure system.
- Confirm your account balance: The deposited funds will typically appear within minutes.
To withdraw, choose Interac from the withdrawal menu. Then, confirm your request and authorize the transfer through your banking portal. Some of the best Interac casinos even combine their welcome bonuses with exclusive offers like 100 free spins for first-time users.
Interac vs. Other Payment Methods
Interac stands out, but it is helpful to compare it against alternatives. Each method has its own strengths and weaknesses, depending on the user’s needs and priorities:
- Credit Cards: Credit cards like Visa and Mastercard remain common in online casinos due to their widespread availability. They allow quick deposits and are easy to use, especially for first-time players. However, many banks treat gambling transactions as cash advances, which can trigger additional fees and higher interest rates. Moreover, some online casinos do not allow withdrawals back to credit cards, requiring an alternative method for payouts, which can slow the process.
- Prepaid Cards: Prepaid cards offer a controlled and anonymous way to fund casino accounts. They are especially appealing to users who want to stick to a fixed budget or avoid sharing banking information. Casinos that accept Vanilla prepaid card options allow players to deposit using a physical or digital prepaid card purchased in stores, without the need to register a personal bank or e-wallet account. These cards are easy to use and ideal for beginners or cautious players.
However, the key limitation is that vanilla prepaid casino payments typically support only deposits—you cannot use them to withdraw your winnings. This means players need to choose an alternative payout method when it’s time to cash out. Still, for users who value privacy, simplicity, and financial control, prepaid cards remain a practical deposit option.
- E-wallets (Skrill, Neteller): E-wallets offer fast and secure transfers, both for deposits and withdrawals. They’re favored by frequent players because of their speed and ease of use. However, using e-wallets means setting up and managing an additional account, which includes remembering login credentials and maintaining separate balances. Also, some casinos exclude Skrill and Neteller deposits from bonus eligibility, which can be a disadvantage for bonus hunters.
- Cryptocurrencies: Digital currencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin are gaining traction due to fast, low-cost, and anonymous transactions. They appeal to players looking for privacy and independence from traditional banking. However, their biggest downside is price volatility—your balance can gain or lose value rapidly. Additionally, not all Canadian online casinos accept crypto payments, making availability inconsistent.
- Bank Wire Transfers: A classic but outdated option. Bank wires are secure and ideal for transferring larger sums, but they are notoriously slow. Withdrawals via wire transfer can take several business days to reach your account. Moreover, banks and casinos often charge higher fees for this method. For players who value speed and cost-efficiency, wire transfers are rarely the top choice.
Potential Drawbacks of Using Interac for Online Casino Payments
While Interac has many benefits, a few drawbacks should be considered, especially if you chose any online casino listed at Casinosfest:
- Limited Global Reach: Some international platforms do not support Interac.
- Variable Withdrawal Times: While Interac processes payments quickly, casinos may still have internal processing periods that add extra wait time.
- Potential Bank Charges: Some banks apply small service fees for Interac transfers.
- Bonus Eligibility Issues: Certain sites exclude Interac deposits from welcome bonuses or free spin offers. Always check the bonus terms.
- Bank Restrictions: Some banks limit or reject gambling transactions, even when using Interac. It is smart to verify with your institution first.
Understanding these potential downsides allows Canadian gamblers to plan better. They will avoid surprises when choosing Interac.
Conclusion
Interac has built a strong reputation among online casinos in Canada. It brings together safety, speed, low fees, and direct banking access, creating a powerful solution for users who value security.
While no method is perfect, the minor issues tied to Interac are easy to manage. Choosing an Interac casino in Canada means benefiting from fast, secure transactions with minimal risk. It also means sticking to a system trusted by both casinos and Canadian banks.
 By Eric Stern
April 29th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Election Scrutineering 101
I’ve always voted and paid attention to our political process. For last night’s election, I decided to go a step further. I volunteered as a scrutineer for the Conservative Party.
Training involved a trip to Emily Brown’s campaign office and 15 minutes. One of the other volunteers commented that he was there to understand the election process. Donald Trump has thrown into question the integrity of elections. Scrutineering gave me a unique opportunity to look behind the curtain.
One of the first things I learned was what constitutes a spoiled ballot. I’ve always carefully marked my X, making sure the lines stayed inside the circle. Elections Canada wants to determine voter intent. You don’t have to use an X. As I saw during the counting, people filled in the circle, people drew in stars or squiggles. As long as the intent was clear, the vote was counted.
An optional activity, from 7:30 am to 9:00 am, was to wave signs at Appleby and Fairview.
 They called them waves – they were held at many of the main intersections in the city. Typically, I dread this type of activity, but I have to admit it was fun. People honked as they drove by, people waved, people stared straight ahead and did their best to ignore us, and about one car in fifty waved their swear finger at all of us. Are we losing our civility? Is it time to have a law that says political parties can only talk about their platform, not disparage the other candidates? Justin “he’s just not ready” comes to mind, but so does this ad:
After a quick trip to the polling station in the morning, to sign forms and show my ID, I returned to the station at 9:10 pm. The doors were locked at 9:30 pm, and the counting process started. Ballot boxes were immediately sealed. Tables were cleared, and scrutineers from the various parties moved to their assigned tables.
Once the Elections Canada officials were ready to count ballots, the ballot boxes were opened, and the counting began. Each ballot was held up for the scrutineers to review and placed in a pile for the intended candidate. One official held up the ballots, a second kept a tally. There was only one spoiled ballot, someone had clearly voted for both the Liberal and Conservative candidates. Will Carney partner with Poilievre to form the next government?
The race was so close, there would be two in a row for Karina, followed by three for Emily, then five for Karina, then four for Emily, and almost no votes for the other parties.
After all the ballots had been counted, approximately 150 per poll, the count was double-checked. Multiple teams of officials and scrutineers completed this process concurrently. By 11 pm, the count for the polling station was complete.
Everyone, officials and party representatives, was respectful, friendly, and dedicated to the integrity of the process.
The integrity of our elections relies on all of us. Please consider working for Elections Canada or volunteering as a scrutineer.
By Pepper Parr
April 29th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 Emily Brown speaking to her supporters at the Hilton hotel. It was a campaign Emily Brown had to win and a campaign she was certain she would win.
It didn’t work out that way.
What we are seeing in Burlington is being replicated across the country.
 Losing is never easy. A lot of people who believed in Emily Brown will look for the reasons why the Conservatives lost. There are already people putting together their plans to win the nomination for the next federal election. The biggest problem for the Conservatives was their leader, who lost his own seat and may well lose the leadership of the Conservative party.
It will take some time for the disappointment to work itself out.
While it wasn’t an evening to celebrate, the Conservatives did gather at the Hilton hotel to make the best of the occasion.
The Liberals were confident going into the race; it was never an event where they felt it was going to get away from them.
 The Gould team had every reason to celebrate, and celebrate they did.
By Pepper Parr
April 28th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Another one of those a picture worth 1000 words.
 Gould was leading in every polling station when counting stopped at 1:30 in the morning.
 By Staff
April 28th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Members of the official Burlington delegation visiting Apeldoorn are:
- Mayor Marianne Meed Ward
- Rory Nisan, Ward 3 Councillor and Council Liaison on the Mundialization Committee
- Hassaan Basit, Chief Administrative Officer
- Samantha Yew, City Clerk/Director of Legislative Services
- Hasan Raza, Chair, Mundialization Committee (volunteer)
- Anne Koopman, Chair, Apeldoorn Sub-committee (volunteer)
 Mayor Marianne Meed Ward  Hassaan Basit, Chief Administrative Officer  Rory Nisan, Ward 3 Councillor and Council Liaison on the Mundialization Committee
By Staff
April 28th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Kady O’Malley at iPolitics had this to say this morning.
It’s election day in Canada.
Polls will open for 12 hours on Monday, staggered based on time zone. Most voters in Ontario and Quebec that live in the Eastern Time zone can vote from 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Those living in B.C. and the Yukon will be able to vote from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Pacific Time.
What’s at stake? A lot, to put it lightly.
 Whoever emerges as PM after the vote will lead negotiations on a new economic and security partnership with the U.S., for starters. They will also need to chart a new course for the country amid a global order upended by the Trump administration.
And then, you know, deal with an affordability crisis, headlined by sky-high home prices, as well wrestle with meaty issues like how many people should we admit to this country, how best to stem the numbers of people dying from opioid overdoses, whether we need to build nation-spanning oil pipelines – just to name a few.
It’s a tall order… That’s why at the onset of the campaign, we asked whether Canada itself was the ballot box issue in this year’s race.
It’s unclear if that’s what’s driving voters, but polls have shown that dealing with Trump occupied a lot of space earlier on in the race, only to fade in the final stages, which may help to explain how the Liberal lead narrowed near the end of the campaign.
Speaking of polls, final polls from Abacus, Leger, Ipsos, Mainstreet and Nanos all show the Liberals leading the Conservatives by single-digit margins, though it’s unclear if it would be enough for a majority government.
It could mean a long night of ballot watching.
By Pepper Parr
April 28th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The ballots are being cast.
The get out the vote teams in every riding across the country are working hard – very hard.
The questions in the minds of everyone are:
 Does the dog have a vote? How big will the Liberal plurality be?
Will Pierre Poilievre manage to hold his seat?
Will the NDP lose their party status?
Could the country face a situation where the current leaders of the NDP and the Conservatives find themselves without a seat in the House of Commons?
Canadians are making history today!
 By Shireen T. Singh
April 28th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The world of fintech has gained a lot of attention since 2018, and for good reason. Simply looking at the numbers, you can just tell that the industry is growing rapidly. At the end of 2023, the F-Prime Fintech Index, which tracks the industry’s growth, estimated the market cap of the industry to be $573 billion. And that’s double what it was in 2019!
 Trade with a firm’s money for profit from the comfort of their home. Today, financial services are becoming more efficient and user-friendly than ever, making fintech a mainstay in today’s economic climate. One area where fintech’s relevance is growing significantly is proprietary trading. So, let’s examine how fintech is transforming prop trading and what its future is shaping up to be.
Understanding Prop Trading
When a financial institution, like a bank or hedge fund, trades with its own money in the forex market, stock market, or other financial markets, that’s called proprietary trading. These financial companies typically make trades on behalf of their clients and earn a commission, but prop trading is a little different. Instead of using a client’s money to invest, they use their own capital, which means they can take on more risk and have a shot at higher rewards.
Thanks to advancements in fintech, this form of trading has become more accessible and advanced, opening up new opportunities to companies and traders globally. CFD brokers and prop trading firms now provide retail traders with access to institutional-grade trading environments, allowing them to leverage cutting-edge trading tools. For example, platforms like OANDA now allow traders (with no capital) to trade with a firm’s money for profit from the comfort of their home.
It is also important to note that financial corporations involved in prop trading do this for one major reason, and that is to make more profit. In order to keep things fair and focused, they have special sections of the company dedicated to these kinds of trades — referred to as the prop trading desk. This desk operates separately from client-focused areas and sometimes even acts as “market makers,” meaning they step in to buy or sell large amounts of security when there isn’t enough movement in the market. This keeps things flowing and adds increased stability to the market, even when things get rocky.
Evolution of Prop Trading
In the 1980s, before the internet, prop trading started as a way for retail traders who weren’t wealthy investors or big institutions to get a chance to join in on the stock market action. This was possible when financial corporations created “pool accounts” that allowed these smaller traders to access real-time data and trading tools they couldn’t get on their own.
 These people were skilled traders who worked directly from these firms’ offices to help grow the company’s capital. These people were skilled traders who worked directly from these firms’ offices to help grow the company’s capital. They then earned part of the profits they garnered for these financial institutions. This is the foundational setup that structures today’s prop trading model, where firms still partner with individual traders.
Thanks to the internet, the world of prop trading has become so advanced that it is somewhat unrecognizable. However, the concept remains the same: traders pay a fee to be evaluated, and if they pass, they get access to the firm’s capital, sharing any profits that they make. Technological advancements have made prop trading easily accessible to every trader willing to fulfill requirements stipulated by prop trading firms.
Currently, well over 100 online prop trading firms offer evaluation programs for anyone who wants to try trading. While most traders might not make it past the evaluation, the few who succeed stand to earn significantly by trading with more funds than they would have had on their own.
Three Key Fintech Innovations Transforming Prop Trading
The trading methods and tools used to carry out innovative and competitive trades have changed significantly owing to the advancement in the fintech industry. With the advantage of fintech, prop trading has become faster, smarter, and more adaptable to market changes. Here are three key fintech innovations that are transforming the world of prop trading that are available through these solutions.
High-Frequency Trading (HFT)
Today, it is much easier to use high-frequency trading in prop trading. HFT is a technological advancement that allows thousands of trades to be carried out in fractions of a second. When used together with algorithmic trading, it can boost trade volume and speed, helping traders react instantly to market changes and increase profits. This advancement has given traders and firms an upper hand in the markets but also poses a risk of increased market volatility, especially when trades are executed at high speeds in sensitive conditions.
By Pepper Parr
April 27th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
When you see polls like this, which do have a margin of error, you can understand how desperate and disappointed the Conservative party members feel.
 To go from a lead of 20 points to being behind by 10 points is something rarely seen. This polling was not done by the Gazette; it was done by a reliable source. At one point, they had it – circumstances changed, and they were unable to pivot.
Now in the final day of active campaigning, when things don’t look very good – expect accusations to be made.
Emotions will be running high.
Despite the feelings – this election is one of the most important in several decades. Polls are an event about an event that has yet to take place.
Vote and work hard to get the people who support the party you believe in to the polls. Every vote counts.
The results will be known late Monday night.
By Pepper Parr
April 27th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
While it is a nationwide election, the battles take place in the constituency trenches.
Karina Gould is fighting her fourth election; Emily Brown her second.
Political parties aside, they are both decent, accomplished women.
Gould has more to show politically; including that terrible gaff when she asked that what was said in the House about the former Nazi in the House of Commons while Ukraine president Zelensky was being recognized be struck from the record.
Gould has delivered the bacon, that’s what she was elected to do.
Brown has worked very hard at the constituency level to keep the Conservatives in the public eye.
Should she lose this election it would be very hard to come back a third time.
Should Gould lose the election, there is little doubt that she will be a candidate in the next federal election.
Her decision to run for the leadership of the Liberal party was a brave move – at some point, she could well become the Prime Minister.
Voters across the country will be voting for the political party they would like to see win – this is a race between Pierre Poileivre and Mark Carney being decided in the 383 constituencies coast to coast to coast.
It is an existential election; Canada is going to go through a massive change in which countries it trades with; on how much it spends on defense and how the federal government that takes office decides to spend the tax dollars it will raise.
Our economy and our borders are at risk.
The new Prime Minister will have to deal with a President who is both reckless, unstable and unprepared to adhere to the Constitution he swore to protect.
Every Canadian will have determined their choice when they vote on Monday.
The 7.3 million voters who cast ballots during the Easter holiday, a record two million on Good Friday, is evidence enough that citizens are engaged.
If you haven’t voted – do so.
Thousands will vote for a political party they have not voted for in the past. That is democracy at its best.
 Karina Gould  Emily Brown The choice is: Emily Brown or Karina Gould.
Yes, there are other candidates, and the political parties they represent matter. They
Michael Bator, People’s Party of Canada
Michael Beauchemin, New Democratic Party
Emily Brown, Conservative Party of Canada
Karina Gould, Liberal Party of Canada
Paul Harper Parti Rhinocéros Party
Kyle Hutton Green Party
Ocean Marshall Libertarian Party of Canada
By Pepper Parr
April 26th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
On Friday there was a noisy demonstration outside the Burlington Centre, the location of the Gould offices.
Gould was hosting former Prime Minister Jean Chretien
Foul language, foul signs and a bullhorn blaring away were reported to us by an individual who was at the site.
We reported what we learned.
Several hours later, we received a phone call from a trusted individual who was working as a volunteer on the Emily Brown campaign, saying that the demonstrators were not from the Brown campaign.
The Brown campaign was in the area doing their typical campaign work at the intersection of Guelph Line and Fairview at 5:30 pm
The Chretien event took place earlier in the day.
We reached out to the Brown campaign and did not get a response until much later in the day. The news cycle is a 24/7 operation.
 Emily Brown, Conservative candidate for the Burlington seat in the House of Commons. We are delighted to learn that the Brown campaign was not involved, and would have liked to have seen a statement from the Brown campaign expressing their concern that there are people abusing the election campaign process.
Emily Brown has worked hard as a candidate in two elections. Were she to be elected she would represent the interests of the city very well.
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By Pepper Parr
