 By Gazette Staff
January 26th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
A lot of people were surprised when they learned that the development of two 20-storey residential buildings connected by a shared 6-storey podium with retail at grade were cancelled.
The notice didn’t say the development would be delayed. It had been cancelled The developers, Latch Development returned deposits to those who purchased.
This meant that 475 residential units would not be coming to market.
In an announcement on their website, Latch Development said:
 Sales projections were not met: developer cancelled the project “Although the development received strong early interest, overall sales did not meet the required levels to proceed with construction. Given the continued challenges within the GTA condominium market, at this time, we have made the difficult decision not to proceed with the 1989 Condominium development.
This decision was not made lightly, but it reflects what we believe is in the best interest of our purchasers and the broader community. All purchasers will receive a full refund of their deposits in accordance with the terms of their agreements.
We remain committed to transparency and to maintaining the trust of our homeowners and partners. Thank you to everyone who expressed enthusiasm and support for 1989 Condominium.”
MHBC Planning, Urban Design & Landscape Architecture were the planning consultants for Latch. They would have been involved in the analysis of the market potential. While the city planning department didn’t make a decision on the development within the required 90 days, which took the matter to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) where it was eventually approved.
The development fit in with what the province wanted to see – Burlington has pledged to approve xxx number of housing units by 2031.
If Latch couldn’t presell units in the current market – it is doubtfull if any other developer will succeed which points to a significant depression in the growth of the city.
Burlington taxpayers are already bearing the burden of high taxes, in part due to the fact that assessment in the city has not grown.
 By Gerald Lewis
January 26th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
April 4, 2022, was a very important date in the history of gambling not just in Ontario but in Canada as a whole. This was the day when the province finally launched its regulated market for online casinos and sportsbooks.
The journey to reach this point had been a long one. The first land-based casino opened in 1994 in Windsor, but it took another 28 years before the legislation that recognized the existence of online casinos was in place. This meant that operators from all over the world were now permitted to apply for licences to offer their online casino services to Ontarians legally. In exchange they had to agree to pay a licence fee and taxes from profits to the province.
Beside the financial incentive there was one other key reason why Ontario decided that it was time to introduce these measures. Previously Canadians had been able to play in unregulated online casinos who it was almost impossible to block from operating in the country. Not only did this represent lost potential revenue, it also left players exposed to risks of various kinds. For example, some unregulated casinos fail to pay out winnings, others include games that are programmed to be far from fair.
 Dedicated to looking after the interests of both players and operators, and whose official vision is “To Lead The World’s Best Gaming Market”. But regulated casinos have to follow a strict code of practice and be demonstrably fair if they want to retain their licence. To oversee both the licensing process and the subsequent regulation of online casinos the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario created iGaming Ontario. This is an organisation that is dedicated to looking after the interests of both players and operators and whose official vision is “To Lead The World’s Best Gaming Market”. Today it licenses around 40 different casino operators with over 70 brands, and it does seem to be well on its way to turning its vision into reality.
Efficiency Examined
In looking at just how good a regulator like iGaming Ontario really is there are a number of factors to consider. Firstly, it’s how well the casinos themselves operate as well as the general standard of the operators. Then it’s how safe and protected players feel. So if they do have a concern or complaint can they be confident that the regulating body will react.
Finally, it’s how the market is doing financially, because a well-regulated one will have no problem with attracting new players and generating much-appreciated tax revenue for the province.
One only has to look at the kinds of operators that appear on the review site Casino.ca Ontario to see that they are respected and of high quality. They offer generous bonuses for new players and are transparently fair in the ways that they operate. So all have obviously carried out the due diligence required to obtain an operator’s licence.
 Bonuses and free spins come under stronger regulation on Ontario site. Thanks to this approach, in the 3+ years the regulatory system has been in place there has been little need for iGaming Ontario’s intervention. However the organisation has shown that it is ready and willing to act in the event of a contravention of the rules. Recently a fine of CA$350,000 was imposed on a sportsbook following suspicious betting activity in the world of Czech table tennis.
When it comes to how the sector is doing financially this is one more tick in favour of iGaming Ontario. Only last August it saw a month on month leap of 8% in terms of revenue. There are also around 1 million player accounts registered with online casinos, a figure that continues to rise year on year.
Other leading regulators in North America
While Ontario is the undoubted leader in Canada there are also a couple of notable bodies south of the border too. Naturally, the Nevada Gaming Commission leads the way. Responsible for overseeing what is undoubtedly the gaming capital of the world, Las Vegas, this also upholds the very highest standards.
They are closely followed by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) and Casino Control Commission. As one of relatively few states to allow legal online gambling theirs is a model that probably guided Ontario to a high degree. It’s also one that has effectively managed to combine a competitive market with high levels of player protection.
Lessons going forward
 Opposition to billboard and television advertising for gambling sites is increasing. Governments are looking at limiting what can be advertised. It’s believed that a number of other Canadian provinces have been closely watching Ontario prior to introducing licensed online casinos. These include British Columbia and Alberta who are likely to launch sometime in the Spring of 2026. Ontario has scarcely put a foot wrong so theirs would be a good blueprint to follow in terms of building player trust and creating a genuinely competitive market.
One issue that has been experienced in Ontario is the demand for tighter regulation on the type and timing of TV advertising for online casinos. So placing firmer restrictions on this from the outsell could well avoid issues further down the line.
By Gregory Livingston
January 26, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
One of the defining features of Burlington’s nightlife is its close connection to local culture. On any given night, you might find acoustic performances at rustic venues on Brant Street, jazz trios playing in historic pubs, or open-mic sessions that attract the city’s creative minds. The live music scene here feels authentic — it’s about people, not spectacle.
 Residents often describe the vibe as “welcoming but refined,” with venues balancing great sound, good company, and a touch of spontaneity. Community-driven spaces like these form the backbone of Burlington’s evening atmosphere. Residents often describe the vibe as “welcoming but refined,” with venues balancing great sound, good company, and a touch of spontaneity. It’s this spirit that sets Burlington apart from larger urban centers nearby.
Beyond Bars – New Forms of Nighttime Entertainment
Food and drink are at the heart of Burlington’s night culture. The city has developed a reputation for its evolving culinary scene, where international flavors meet Canadian creativity. From intimate bistros serving local wine pairings to waterfront patios offering late-night tapas, Burlington transforms into a food lover’s destination once the lights dim.
Restaurants often double as social hubs, creating spaces that encourage connection. Visitors quickly discover that dining here isn’t just about the meal — it’s about the experience.
A Digital Twist to the Nightlife Scene
Entertainment in Burlington isn’t limited to physical spaces. Technology has expanded the way residents unwind, blending traditional leisure with digital experiences. Online platforms, streaming events, and virtual gaming spaces have all become part of how people relax after a long day.
In this modern shift, nightrush represents a growing category of interactive entertainment where timing and excitement converge. While Burlington’s streets hum with live energy, many locals also explore new forms of digital fun that fit seamlessly into their lifestyle. It’s this balance between the real and virtual that defines the city’s modern approach to recreation.
Where Nature and Nightlife Coexist
One of Burlington’s most iconic night scenes unfolds along its waterfront. As Lake Ontario reflects the soft lights of the pier, locals stroll, couples dine by candlelight, and live music drifts from nearby patios. The Burlington Pier itself has become a symbol of the city’s blend of relaxation and liveliness — a place where nature frames the social experience.
This connection to nature makes Burlington’s nightlife distinct. It’s not about neon lights or overcrowded clubs; it’s about atmosphere, community, and the kind of moments that linger. Even a quiet walk along the lake can feel like part of the evening’s entertainment.
Tech and Trends Shaping Burlington’s Entertainment
Burlington is part of a broader movement among mid-sized Canadian cities embracing smart technologies. Public Wi-Fi zones, efficient transportation systems, and digital event listings have made it easier than ever for residents to find and enjoy activities after dark.
Technology doesn’t just support convenience — it enhances connection. Event-goers can follow live updates about performances, check crowd sizes, or even order ahead for drinks or tickets. It’s a seamless integration of innovation and lifestyle, one that reflects the city’s forward-thinking approach to entertainment.
As physical and digital entertainment continue to merge, Burlington’s venues have begun experimenting with hybrid models. Live concerts are streamed online, trivia nights include virtual participation, and digital art projections light up the cityscape during local festivals.
These interactive experiences give Burlington’s nightlife a sense of evolution — not a reinvention, but a natural extension of how people choose to enjoy their evenings today.
The Social Side of Burlington Nights
 Outdoors and yards from the lake – a prime spot in the city. From upscale wine bars to lively patios and music lounges, Burlington caters to a variety of tastes. Small venues foster intimacy and connection, while larger spaces embrace energy and movement. Whether it’s the laughter of a trivia crowd, the rhythm of a jazz performance, or the calm of a lakeside lounge, the diversity of atmospheres makes Burlington’s nightlife dynamic yet personal.
Seasonal events like the Sound of Music Festival or Burlington Food Truck Festival infuse additional life into the city’s nights. They serve as reminders that entertainment here doesn’t always mean extravagance — it often means togetherness.
As the city continues to grow, its focus on creating shared experiences ensures that Burlington’s nightlife remains inclusive, balanced, and full of character.
Burlington’s Nightlife Future – Local Soul, Global Vision
What makes Burlington’s nightlife truly stand out is its sustainability — not just environmentally, but culturally. Businesses and event organizers emphasize local partnerships, eco-friendly operations, and authentic experiences. The result is a scene that feels homegrown yet forward-looking.
This approach reflects a larger trend seen across Canada: the blending of local identity with global influence. Burlington embraces innovation while keeping its roots intact, ensuring its nightlife remains as genuine as it is exciting.
Redefining “Nightlife” for a Modern Generation
For younger residents, nightlife isn’t confined to traditional venues. It includes social media-driven pop-ups, outdoor film screenings, and virtual gatherings. The city’s open-minded attitude encourages creativity — from digital art displays to collaborative performances that reimagine what evening entertainment can be.
This redefinition ensures Burlington continues to thrive, offering both connection and exploration in an age of constant change.
Burlington After Dark – Where Every Night Tells a Story
 Burlington’s rich indigenous culture is on display throughout the year Burlington’s nightlife isn’t loud or showy — it’s meaningful, modern, and unmistakably local. The city has mastered the art of blending community and creativity, proving that a smaller city can have a big personality when the lights go down.
From waterfront evenings to virtual adventures, Burlington embodies the essence of contemporary leisure — grounded in connection, shaped by innovation, and guided by authenticity.
As day turns to night, Burlington doesn’t slow down. It transforms — into a living canvas of culture, flavor, and rhythm.
 By Gazette Staff
January 25th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
If we can make it to July there will be financial sunshine for most Canadians
Having solved economic issues at the world level and managed to keep most of the provinces happy, Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to announce changes in the GST credit paid out to most Canadians.
 The Toronto Star has reported that Carney will take a stab at resetting his domestic agenda Monday with an affordability announcement that will include generous top-ups to the GST credit this summer, impacting approximately 12 million Canadians.
Carney is set to announce that the quarterly GST payments will increase in July by 25 per cent over the next five years — providing approximately an additional $130 for a low-income single person and $270 for a couple with two kids for the 2026-2027 benefit year.
The government will also provide a one-time special payment in June, equal to a 50 per cent increase in the value of the GST credit, meaning a family with two kids could receive more than $800 in combined relief.
 By Gazette Staff
January 25th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
The original plan was to see 25 tables of eight for a Trivia Night.
They’ve sold 26 tables and are checking to see if it will be possible to add a few more.
 The people organizing this event on behalf of the Compassion Society are itching to put up a SOLD OUT sign.
The prizes are impressive:
Providing a $50 gift card for the first place winners.
1st place $50 gift card for Squire’s Gastro Pub for each member of the winning table
3rd place $10 gift card for Crème de la Crème for each member of the third place winners.
They are still witing fr confirmation on the provider of the second place prize.
 By Gazette Staff
January 25th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
 The warm balmy days of August are the furthest things from our minds on days like this.
Not so for the people who promote a vegan lifestyle.
They are preparing for the 5th annual Veg Fest – in Spencer Smith Park this year. August 15th: 11:00 to 6:30
They drew 15,000 people last year -expect even more this year.
 Fruits and vegetables and nice people
By Gazette Staff
January 24th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
It’s a snowstorm! A big one – Canada, hockey and winter snowstorms – part of our DNA.
 THIS is what winter is about. Storm could deliver between 20 and 40 centimetres of snow. The city is prepared; it has the experienced staff and equipment to handle this.
Hundreds of flights cancelled at Pearson – that is to be expected.
Several GO transit routes are impacted, as well as dozens of TTC stops. Neither the GO transit system were built to deal with level os snow but the people of the province know this and they know how to prepare.
Toronto has activated all of its warming centres, which provide meals, access to washroom facilities, and referrals to emergency shelter. Those who do not have adequate housing do need extra support. And, once we have dealt with our shame, we can get on with helping those people.
 Wild life need support during heavy snowfalls. No mention of all the tobogganing opportunities. And what great weather to go snowshoeing in. The countryside will be eerily quiet while the deer rummage for food. This is the time of year farmers put out bales of hay for them.
Environment Canada tends to say the same thing with every weather report. Never any mention of the changes in our climate that we, for the most part brought on ourselves.
That too is part of our DNA.
By Pepper Parr
January 25th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Focus Burlington found its footing at their Beyond the Ballot event earlier this month.
 The attendance was decent given the weather. The next step is to look for candidates to run in the six city wards and and with some luck find a candidate for the office of Mayor.
In a note to the people who participated: Eric Stern, Stephen White said: “If you have ever considered running for office or know anyone who is interested, please join us on Thursday, February 26th, at Lions Hall at 7 pm to learn more about what’s involved.
In 2018, five of the people who were elected to office were first-time candidates. Two of the Council members had retired.
Change does happen. New leadership is out there – if you think you might be part of it – show up on the 25th.
By Jake Fuss, Fraser Institute
January 24, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Examining Federal Debt in Canada by Prime Ministers Since Confederation, 2026
Canada’s 24 prime ministers have each left a legacy, and each of those legacies has an effect on all Canadians. One element critical to an analysis of each prime minister is whether he or she left the federal government more or less indebted than when first taking office.
This bulletin measures the debt legacies of all prime ministers from 1870 to 2025. We examine the percentage change in inflation-adjusted gross debt per person during the tenures of various prime ministers. By accounting for population growth and inflation, the level of debt accumulated by each prime minister can be compared through Canada’s history.
Historical context is vital to understanding the debt legacies of each prime minister. For instance, global conflicts such as World War I and World War II and multiple economic downturns contributed significantly to the substantial growth in debt per person that occurred during the tenures of Sir Robert Borden (188.1 percent) and William Lyon Mackenzie King (145.2 percent).
During economic downturns, the federal government collects less revenue and spends more as incomes decline and Canadians draw more on services such as Employment Insurance. These downturns contribute significantly to federal debt accumulation, but are out of the direct control of prime ministers.
In 2025, federal per-person debt is projected to be $56,432, which is the second-highest amount in Canadian history (surpassed only by 2021). During the first year of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s tenure, federal per-person debt is expected to increase by 4.2 percent.
 By Pepper Parr
January 24th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
How do you explain to a young child that Grandpa is not going to be visiting anymore?
Death is not something young children understand. They experience the loss, but comprehending what has happened is not easily explained.
 Esther Maloney Esther Maloney is a writer, filmmaker and educator who currently works for the National Film Board of Canada. She has taught courses at George Brown College, Humber College and at the University of Toronto, Scarborough.
She has written a wonderful little book that helps parents deal with situations where a grandparent or close family friend pass away that young children miss terribly and don’t understand why they are gone.
Maloney blends in the death of a person with the releasing of an injured bird from a cage once they have healed. The book explores the bigger questions and emotions around life and death, loss and connections.
 A child’s Father explains:”Everyone has their own beliefs about what happens after death, but you can think of it like a bird being freed from it’s cage.”
“Really? How? asked the child.
That is a tough question to answer without getting tied up in different religious ideologies.
“We human beings”, explains the Father “have two parts. One is our body, which only lasts for a little while in this world. The other part is our soul, which lasts forever. Our bodies are like cages that keep our souls connected to this world for a time. But eventually our souls are set free.”
The book is beautifully illustrated by Elaheh Bos.
Efforts are being made to have a copy of the book in every Burlington Library branch. We will let you know when it’s on the shelves.
 By Joe Gaetan
January 24th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
As epic as Mark Carney’s Davos speech was, the real story isn’t just what he said – it’s how Carney got here, and what that says about us as voters.
Let’s be honest: Carney didn’t become prime minister in a vacuum. Carney may be PM in part due to Pierre Poilievre, and the Carbon Tax. Who can forget how he relentlessly hammered away at “axing the tax”. The tax imposed on Canadians to be rebated in full (but not before or without adding the cost of administering the merry-go-round). That drumbeat like it or not may have helped reshape our and possibly the worlds political landscape.
Looking back, instead of using our energy resources to help friendly countries, we were told we should leave it in the ground. When we knew LNG is cleaner than coal, we were told there was “no business case for LNG,” while some provinces said, “not through our land.” And while EVs are part of the solution, instead of investing first in nationwide charging infrastructure, we were about to impose an EV mandate on the entire country. While there was more going on than the energy file, it serves as a proxy for, be careful what you vote for. Who we elect is just as important – if not more – than what our leaders say on the hustings or on the world stage.
 When we elect someone because we are charmed by appearance, rather than substance, we get what we deserve. When we elect someone because we are charmed by appearance, rather than substance, we get what we deserve. When we elect someone who sees the bigger picture – who understands we can be green while still ethically developing and exporting oil, gas, and SMRs – then we start firing on all cylinders.
 Democracy isn’t just about showing up. If you don’t think who you vote for matters as much as what you vote for, ask yourself: where would Canada be today if, collectively – not unanimously, but meaningfully – we hadn’t given Carney a chance to show what he was made of? For some the jury is still out on that question. While others are giddy over Carney.
And now, due to floor-crossing and political volatility, we may be heading back to the polls sooner than later.
So here’s the real question for voters:
Will you only vote for the party you’ve always voted for?
Will you vote just because you like your local candidate?
Will you vote because a candidate says its 2026?
Will you vote after taking a serious look at the effect your vote has on the future of our country?
Will you vote at all?
The last year has been a wake-up call. Not just about politics – but about our voting responsibility. Because democracy isn’t just about showing up. It’s about thinking harder, digging deeper, voting smarter, and understanding that leadership choices shape everything from your tax bill to Canada’s place in the world. And just in case you think this only applies to federal elections, think again. We will soon be voting on Municipal candidates. And this is not the time to sleepwalk through it.
 By Pepper Parr
January 24th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
The Performing Arts Centre has yet to post anything on their web ste about what Sunday’s weather is going to do to us. Best to check with the Box Office to determine if the show is going to run before you consider attending.
If you haven’t booked a seat for this event – give it a thought – but moved quickly.
Step back into an era when “swing” reigned supreme in Burlington!
The 26-piece Toronto All-Star Big Band revives the spirit and style of the golden age of the Big Bands.
Enjoy your favourite tunes by Glenn Miller and Benny Goodman.
These were the sounds that were heard at the long gone Burlington Inn that had a stage stretching out into Lake Ontario.
Tickets are available. Click HERE for ticket office.
By Pepper Parr
January 23rd, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
 The War Plane Museum in Hamilton uses TipTap that allows people support the maintenance and upkeep of one of just two WWII Lancaster bombers in the world. There is a company in Burlington that is getting help from people who visit their premises to keep a vintage war plane in the Air.
That company works with the Salvation Army to bring in 15% of their donations; last year, they increased the donation level by 12%
They have expanded into the United States, where they are broadening the line of services they offer.
Tiptap, have you heard of them?
They use a small device that you tap with your credit card or debit card, should you decide you want to support the organization.
“What we have done, explained Mark Gordon, Managing Director, Sales and Retention, is give people an opportunity to support an organization or an idea with a one-time on-the-spot donation.
 Their service provided 15%of the Salvation Army donations in 2024.
There are all kinds of things people want to support but don’t want to enter into a long-term financial commitment. Tiptap fills that gap.
“It is going to take some time to educate the public on what we can do” said Jordan.
There is a transaction fee of 10 cents each time a donation is made. The Tiptap people earn 2.65%of each transaction.
By Gazette Staff
January 22, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
 The City is creating a Youth Framework and needs your help.
This plan guides how the City supports, listens to, and works with young people. It makes sure youth have a real voice in shaping programs, spaces, and opportunities that matter to them.
If you are a youth, a parent or someone who works with youth, we would love your feedback on priorities for youth. Take the survey today!
Do take the survey. We are not going to comment on it for a few days. We would like to hear what young people think about it. Comments you make will not be attributed.
 By Gazette Staff
January 22, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
“Protecting the climate and protecting our democracy are inextricably linked,” veteran climate reporter and activist Bill McKibben said last week at a Covering Climate Now press briefing on climate journalism in 2026. US president Donald Trump “is in many ways operating as a political arm of the oil industry,” McKibben added, “and coming to grips with his authoritarian impulse is going to be crucial to ever getting any climate action.”
The struggle for democracy — in the streets of Minneapolis, Teheran, and beyond — is but one high-profile issue with a strong climate change connection. Internationally, Greenland, Venezuela, and Iran possess sizable amounts of oil whose burning could push Earth’s climate past catastrophic tipping points. In the US, the surging cost of electricity produced by coal and gas is shaping up as an issue in congressional elections this November that could either counter or reinforce Trump’s authoritarianism. Yet, climate change is still missing from most news coverage.
 Greenland McKibben cited Trump’s obsession with Greenland as a perfect example of a story in which climate change should be a critical aspect of the story but isn’t. While most Greenland coverage has focused on the geo-political and military implications of Trump’s aggression, McKibben said, “the actual strategic asset in play here is a two-mile-thick sheet of ice that, if it melts, will change the lives of every person on planet Earth” by raising sea levels catastrophically.
Meanwhile, developments in Africa contrast sharply with the US’s U-turn on climate action, Mohamed Adow, director of the Nairobi-based NGO Power Shift Africa, said during the briefing. Africa has become “one of the world’s most important laboratories for climate solutions,” Adow said, though the speed at which change is happening is “often missed” by journalists. (This Bloomberg Green article offers an excellent exception.) “Kenya now generates 95% of our electricity from renewables,” Adow added. “Solar capacity has expanded rapidly in countries such as South Africa, Morocco, and Egypt…. Solar mini-grids in rural Nigeria, Tanzania, and Senegal are bringing reliable electricity to [rural] communities that fossil fuel-based grids have failed to reach for decades.”
In Europe, too, there are urgent climate stories to tell. The EU’s imposition of climate tariffs on January 1, 2026, for example, is an “incredibly important” development, said Guardian reporter Fiona Harvey, whose own reporting showed that, under the EU’s carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM), “companies selling steel, cement, and other high-carbon goods into the EU will have to prove that they comply with low-carbon regulations or face fines.” The tariff is aimed at companies that might “shift their manufacture of those high-carbon goods or services to another [country] that has more lax regulation,” Harvey said, “so you don’t actually get any carbon saving.”
Noting that editors like stories about unexpected developments, McKibben highlighted “the dramatic reduction in the price of clean energy, which is shaking up all of our assumptions.”
 With solar and wind now providing 90% of new generating capacity around the world, there’s nothing alternative about them anymore, “With solar and wind now providing 90% of new generating capacity around the world,” McKibben said, “there’s nothing alternative about them anymore, and one of the stories [journalists] need to tell is that we’re breaking into a new paradigm.”
Our job as journalists, she added, is “to show them that there are constructive ways out of the mess, as well as presenting them with the reality of the mess.”
By Gazette Staff
January 22, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
If you ever wondered why we have public libraries – read on.
There are actually groups in Burlington who don’t think library membership should be free.
 A child’s life is so much richer if they learn to love reading just for the experience.  Reading a book and listening to music at the same time – a wonderful way to spend an hour or so. 
By Gazette Staff
January 22, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington Public Library is introducing an exciting lineup of Valentine’s Day events, activities, and book displays at library branches across the city next month. From February 1 to 14, visitors will find playful programs, cozy reading inspiration, a creative bookmark contest, and more special events and activities to celebrate.
 “We’re bringing a little extra love to Burlington this February with free Valentine’s Day events and activities for all ages,” says Tammy Csajaghy, Manager of Programming & Partnerships at Burlington Public Library. “We’re especially looking forward to the Valentine’s Day edition of our open mic event for singers, writers, and musicians to share their talents and stories.”
Free Valentine’s Day events
All programs are FREE and do not require a library card to attend. Check out the library’s website for a full list of all love inspired programs and events in February.
Farah Heron Talks Romance
Critically acclaimed author Farah Heron, Just Playing House, talks about writing romantic comedies.
Tuesday, February 10, 7-8pm. Register. CENTRAL
 Have a Blind Date with a Book Love, Hate & Popcorn Teen Movie Night
Celebrate an early Valentine’s Day with friends at a screening of the cult-classic Scott Pilgrim vs. the World.
Thu February 12, 6:30-8:30pm. CENTRAL
Romance the Open Mic
Singers, writers, poets, and musicians, share your talents—and speak your heart! Appreciative audience members are welcome.
Sat February 14, 1-2:30pm. Doors open at 12:30pm for sign-up. CENTRAL
The Story of Aida
Sabatino Vacca, Artistic Director of Southern Ontario Lyric Opera, talks about Verdi’s passionate opera masterpiece, Aida.
Tuesday, February 17, 7-8:30pm. Register. CENTRAL
More activities to love
 No kissing booth at this years Valentine week events. From February 1 to 14, all BPL branches will have a Blind Date with a Book display of books in bags. Each surprise book comes with a short description but no title or author. It’s like a literary blind date!
Kids can also jump into the fun with a drop-in Valentine’s Day Scavenger Hunt and colouring activities at library branches from February 1 to 14.
Burlington Public Library belongs to everyone in the community, providing open and equitable access to information, digital & print collections and resources, public computers, and a vast array of programs and services. Six full-service branches and a rural lending location offer welcoming spaces where visitors can explore, discover, reflect, learn, improve, create, and connect with others.
Valentine’s Day at BPL web page
By Gazette Staff
January 22, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
 ROMA – Rural Ontario Mayors Association met in Toronto last Sunday. The organization was created to give municipalities with populations of under 100,000 an opportunity to meet with senior civil servants and Cabinet Ministers.
 Bentivegna represents part of Burlington’s rural north. Ward 6 Councillor Angelo Bentivegna represents a significant number of rural residents – having him at the annual ROMA event made sense.
Why, a person who reached out to the Gazette asked, was Burlington Mayor Meed Ward attending this event? She gets to do her thing at the OBMA Ontario Big Mayors Association.
 Mayor Meed Ward was in Japan representing the City. Registration for ROMA events is $1000 – add in the cost of the hotel for the three-day event – and you’re looking at close to $3000 each for Bentivegna and Meed Ward.
Why was the Mayor a delegate? Our reader suggested it “was another chance to get in front of a microphone and talk about the Ontario Big City Mayors Association.”
There doesn’t appear to be any limit on how much the Mayor can spend going to events.
 By Della Armstrong
January 22, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
The province’s online gambling sector continues to expand, yet the incentives available to players look far more restrained than those seen in unregulated environments. For residents in Burlington and Halton, this raises a straightforward question: how do operators compete in a system that limits the very promotional tools commonly associated with online gaming? The answer lies in a regulatory approach that treats incentives as tightly controlled consumer features rather than headline-driven marketing tactics. Competition persists, but it moves within boundaries designed to protect players and maintain clarity.
A Regulatory Framework That Sets Strict Conditions for Promotional Activity
 The governance model built by iGaming Ontario shapes every offer presented to players. The governance model built by iGaming Ontario (iGO) and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) shapes every offer presented to players. AGCO establishes standards around communication, fairness, data handling, auditing, and conduct, while iGO manages the operational relationships with private platforms and monitors whether operators meet their contractual and reporting obligations. Together, they create a system in which promotional activity cannot exist without measurable safeguards, including mandatory disclosure requirements, internal controls testing, and continuous oversight of how incentives are deployed. This structure is not merely administrative. It directly affects what players in Burlington encounter on licensed sites, influencing everything from the size of promotional rewards to how clearly terms must be communicated. The result is an environment where operators must balance commercial goals with regulatory expectations, creating a competitive landscape that prioritizes predictability and consumer protection.
Why Public Advertising of Inducements Is Restricted
Provincial rules prohibit operators from using mass-market inducements. That means no billboard ads promising sign-up gifts and no broadcast campaigns highlighting promotional rewards. Instead, offers appear only after a player registers and chooses to receive information. This shift reduces pressure on the general public and moves promotions into a context where users can review terms before participating.
What Types of Incentives Are Permitted
 Incentives should enhance the experience for those who already intend to participate, not act as triggers for impulsive sign-ups. New players may encounter welcome offers, and existing users may receive occasional account-based rewards. These are structured as optional features inside a player dashboard, not as broad advertisements. The intention is clear: Incentives should enhance the experience for those who already intend to participate, not act as triggers for impulsive sign-ups. For example, players who choose to explore regulated options can review available offers directly through licensed operators. If you are looking to get your bonus at BetMGM.ca, you would still need to register and opt in before viewing any details, in line with provincial rules.
Why Regulated Offers Tend To Appear More Modest
Prominent headline figures are familiar on offshore sites, but they often come with complicated conditions that are difficult for the average user to interpret. In the regulated market, operators must present terms clearly and avoid exaggerated claims, which effectively limits the scale and style of promotional values. Transparency rules also require operators to demonstrate that incentives do not mislead players about likely outcomes or financial commitments, further narrowing the range of offers they can deploy.
These restrictions contribute to more modest promotions, yet they also produce incentives that are easier to evaluate and compare. For Burlington residents who approach online gaming cautiously, smaller but clearer rewards may reduce misunderstandings about risk, especially among those who engage only occasionally and may not be familiar with industry terminology. In practical terms, this approach reinforces the province’s broader consumer-protection mandate. It encourages operators to compete on service quality, product design, and user experience rather than on attention-grabbing figures.
Wagering Conditions Explained in Plain Language
Requirements that determine how many times funds must be played before withdrawal can be confusing. Under provincial rules, these conditions must be presented in plain language and cannot be buried in long terms and conditions. This helps players compare offers based on practical effort rather than surface-level appeal.
The Role of Responsible Gambling Tools
Protective measures such as spending limits, time-management tools, activity summaries, and the My PlayBreak self-exclusion program are mandatory across all licensed platforms. These features are not optional add-ons; they are core components that influence how promotions are designed. Any incentive must coexist with guardrails intended to support healthier play.
 If a disagreement arises, players can escalate concerns through the operator and, if necessary, through AGCO’s oversight processes. Clear Disclosures Provide Predictability
Every offer must outline eligibility, duration, wagering rules, withdrawal conditions, and any game limitations. These requirements promote transparency across the market, giving players in Burlington and Halton consistent information regardless of which operator they choose.
Structured Dispute Pathways Build Trust
If a disagreement arises, players can escalate concerns through the operator and, if necessary, through AGCO’s oversight processes. This level of formal accountability is absent in unregulated environments, thereby contributing to a safer digital marketplace for residents.
Local Implications for Burlington and Halton
For many in the region, the discussion goes beyond entertainment. It reflects broader expectations around consumer rights, public policy, and regulatory accountability. Incentives still play a role in competition, but they do so under rules designed to protect users, clarify terms, and minimize misleading practices.
Competitive Ontario iGaming Markets Draw Players
Promotional activity in the province’s online gaming market operates within a framework that prioritizes transparency and responsible participation. While operators compete for attention, they do so under conditions that limit inducements and require clear terms. For players in Burlington and Halton, this creates an environment where incentives are available but moderated, offering choice without sacrificing protection.
 By Ray Rivers
January 22nd, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
“Elections are for later. Vote Conservative, vote Liberal – that choice will come. Put down your partisan swords today and take a moment and listen to this speech and what is being framed. These times are not like any other.” (Hon. James Moore, former minister under Mr. Harper)
It’s not that difficult to imagine: Trump is Putin, America is Russia and Canada is Ukraine. That was the message that our PM delivered at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos this week. Mr. Carney’s address to the world body has been labelled as the most consequential, most important and the best in a long time. But of course not everyone will agree. Certainly Mr. Trump doesn’t.
The speech is attached to this column. But what is more important than the speech is how Canadians are reacting to the new reality of Canada’s relationship with the US. We, with only a few exceptions, have stood four square with our southern neighbour on most issues since the end of the second great war. But then the USA had never in modern times sought to invade and assimilate another nation as it threatens Greenland.…and Canada.
 “It is unacceptable for the U.S. to seize the territory of a sovereign country, including by threatening tariffs on other NATO countries.” For that truism he was savaged by the trolls on X, many of whom identified as Canadian and as fellow conservatives – slamming him for sounding too much like a Liberal. Opposition Leader Poilievre addressing the Greenland issue on X stated the simple fact of international law. “It is unacceptable for the U.S. to seize the territory of a sovereign country, including by threatening tariffs on other NATO countries.” For that truism he was savaged by the trolls on X, many of whom identified as Canadian and as fellow conservatives – slamming him for sounding too much like a Liberal.
Perhaps that was what prompted Mr. Moore’s message. The bigger danger is not that we speak plainly to our American friends, but that we fail to stick up for each other and the country. The danger is that we lose the game because we can’t agree on who should be the captain. Partisanship is ripe in Canadian politics, as we can see from the comments section of just about any newspaper. Moore’s plea is to move on – to get on board with the bigger picture and leave petty politics aside for another day.
 Prime Minister Carney at Davos: ‘If we’re not at the table, we’re on the menu’ Carney makes no bones about how the world has changed; about how the old rules no longer apply; and how the institutions created to ensure prosperity, peace and order are being ignored by the big and powerful nations. We should not expect to live by the old rules again so must navigate for ourselves without them.
Carney calls for middle nations to cooperate more with each other, points out how years-long benign efforts at integrating economies has led to economic and military subservience. And he points out how that has to change if we are to survive in this new brave world. We are all needed to work towards achieving that goal. There really is no choice if you love your country.
Click HERE to read the speech
 Ray Rivers, a Gazette Contributing Editor, writes regularly applying his more than 25 years as a federal bureaucrat to his thinking. Rivers was once a candidate for provincial office in Burlington. He was the founder of the Burlington citizen committee on sustainability at a time when climate warming was a hotly debated subject. Ray has a post graduate degree in economics that he earned at the University of Ottawa. Tweet @rayzrivers
Background links:
Poilievre’s X Post Canada Joins EU SAFE – Is Canada Next – Planning Against the Unthinkable –
Best Speech – Moore –
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