 By Tom Parkin
November 19th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
42,000 fewer workers were employed in construction in October than two years ago.
Why does a sector hurt so damaged by bad government policy continue loyalty to the PC Party?
Ontario housing starts second-lowest
Ontario housing unit starts, per month, Jun 2022-Oct 2025
It’s now been 41 months since Ontario’s Ford PC government pledged to meet housing targets requiring a pace of 12,500 housing starts per month. Data released Tuesday by CMHC shows in October, as in the previous 40 months, the actual number of starts was nowhere close to meeting the promise.
In October, only 3,567 housing units started construction in Ontario, just 28.5 per cent of the monthly target. It was the second-worst result since the promise was made.
The collapse of residential construction under the Ford PCs, and their refusal to spur starts by tapping non-profit or co-op development, has killed construction sector jobs and business revenues. Ontario’s construction sector now employs 42,000 fewer workers than two years ago, seasonally adjusted, according to StatCan’s most recent Labour Force Survey.
Ontario construction employment down by 42,000 jobs
Ontario construction sector employment (thousands), Jun 2022-Oct 2025, seasonally adjusted.
By Laura Fuerte
November 12th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
For a long time now, online casinos have leaned heavily on digital frameworks, kind of inevitable, really, when it comes to shielding both their own operations and the people playing there. Security tech isn’t tucked away in some dusty corner; these days it’s involved in, well, pretty much every layer, from guarding personal info to keeping an eye out for odd betting behavior that might signal foul play. There’s been a real uptick—around 37% more attacks targeting gambling platforms in 2023 than the year before. That’s a lot.
 Cyber crime can be stopped with strong security humming quietly in the background, unseen. Understandably, tech spending is ramping up. Still, Now, casino operators are on the hook for fairness in games, juggling rules that cross borders, and, not to forget, helping users stick to healthy playing habits. If you squint a bit, it’s not so much an online gaming business anymore as a tech outfit, with security humming quietly in the background, unseen. That undercurrent, or so it seems, is what keeps players sticking around and nudges the whole industry forward, even if it tends to go unnoticed.
Encryption and data security advances
Every online casino must guarantee that financial details and personal data remain confidential.
SSL and TLS encryption, those acronyms pop up a lot, are now usually considered pretty fundamental for protecting sensitive data. They create protected channels between players’ computers (or phones) and the casino’s servers, helping keep things like sign-ups, payments, or just spinning a slot machine away from prying eyes. }
 More than you might want to know about TLS TLS 1.3 (the latest update, for those keeping score) is being picked up faster lately; somewhat shorter handshakes seem to be the draw. And not to get too deep into the weeds, but nearly every significant casino group was planning a move to quantum-resistant encryption by mid-2024. Maybe a bit ambitious, given the looming spectre of quantum computing, but preparation has its merits.
Lattice-based algorithms and other tools from the world of post-quantum cryptography, well, they’re not everywhere yet, but the early adopters are dipping their toes in. Most operators eye these upgrades as vital not just to keep payment info safe, but also in protecting the random outcomes and records stashed away on servers.
Encryption tends to be at the heart of bigger digital safety plans, making mischief difficult for both the amateur intruder and the more advanced (and determined) attackers. Those casinos prioritizing security upgrades? They often seem to have an easier time checking all the compliance boxes whenever a new privacy rule comes along, and, it’s worth noting, navigating those independent security audits that everyone dreads.
Artificial intelligence and behavior monitoring
There’s a sense now that artificial intelligence is almost inseparable from online casino security. Not everywhere, maybe, but increasingly so. AI systems churn through vast piles of gameplay data, scanning for nuances, little fingerprints of fraud or someone trying to tip the scales unfairly. Fraud prevention numbers shot up once machine learning tools came into play, most notably in live dealer and peer-to-peer setups. Apparently, these models sort through millions of actions and withdrawal attempts looking for links or telltale patterns associated with collusion, chip dumping, or bots that aren’t supposed to be there.
It doesn’t stop at actions; weird login behavior (think accounts accessed from two far-flung regions at once) can instantly trigger a closer look. By feeding real-world outcomes back into the system, casinos let AI adjust on the fly, spotting newer, more subtle threats over time.
Both supervised and unsupervised techniques are in use, mixing adaptability and speed, qualities that, realistically, few human-only security teams could consistently keep up with. Still, it’s not infallible. Some would argue these models miss context or flag harmless anomalies, so human oversight is hard to remove entirely.
Surveillance infrastructure and integrity controls
 Surveillance technology in online casinos has moved well beyond just sifting through event logs. Surveillance technology in online casinos has moved well beyond just sifting through event logs. Increasingly, these platforms roll in visual tools, like facial scans, to bolster identity checks, where required. Research hints that biometrics are being tested out as a way to further clamp down on fraudulent account creation. High-def cameras may be more commonly associated with brick-and-mortar casinos, but the software cousins now monitor digital tables and sessions for things that wouldn’t show up with older systems.
RNG (Random Number Generator) reliability forms the backbone of game fairness. Regulators in most regions appear to want external audits of these RNG systems at least every quarter, but there are exceptions. On top of that, blockchain has cropped up as a possible solution, offering ledgers meant to keep transaction records tamper-resistant. Not foolproof, but a useful deterrent. If someone tries to quietly adjust a record, it’s likely to set off internal alarms.
Meanwhile, analytics tools frequently scan through player deposits or trends looking for blips that might signal something amiss, though, sometimes, it’s just randomness or luck at play. The idea is to build up enough layers, if one misses, maybe another one catches trouble before it spirals.
Network architecture and regulatory compliance
One big shift underway: zero trust architecture gradually replacing those old “flat” network setups. By splitting up systems, payment modules in one bucket, player data someplace else, game logic in another, casinos hope to reduce the damage any single breach can cause. The move to zero trust has, in some circles, led to data theft attempts dropping a noticeable amount—about a quarter less within half a year—though results may vary. This newer model leans hard on granular authentication checks, basically never letting anyone (or anything) waltz in without proving permission over and over again.
Compliance, always lurking in the background, leans more on automation these days. Tools track requirements for anti-money laundering, customer identity, and data rights on a loop. Legislation like the GDPR (Europe) and the CCPA (California) brings big headaches if requests aren’t handled quickly, potential fines can be a real motivator. Audit trails, churned out by automated systems, are now routinely requested when operators enter new regions. None of this is a magic bullet, but it’s a step toward keeping regulators and skeptical players, if not happy, at least reassured.
Embracing responsibility in online platforms
 Though, as always, nothing’s totally perfect. Developments in security tech have nudged the bar higher on what it means to protect players, not just from criminals, but sometimes from their own habits. Operators have started baking tools like self-exclusion, deposit caps, and help centers right into user dashboards, not without some technical hiccups, but integration seems to be improving. The real trick is making sure these safeguards don’t get left behind as systems grow more complex.
If anything, the hope is for technology not just to meet legal requirements, but to genuinely help folks maintain control. Players are prompted to reflect on their limits and offered resources if their habits begin tipping into risky territory. There’s a sense that responsible play, when nudged along by the right tech, could quietly fortify both personal safety and broader trust in the whole world…though, as always, nothing’s totally perfect.
 By Sadie Smith
November 12th. 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
In recent years, interest in live games has grown significantly among Canadian gamblers. Baccarat holds a special place among these. Baccarat has always had its own charm. It’s easy to learn, but every hand still keeps you guessing, which is probably why people never get tired of it. Players on sites like Onlyspins often say it hits that sweet spot between luck and strategy enough to keep things exciting without feeling complicated. And the best part is, you can feel that real casino buzz without leaving your couch.
What is Baccarat, and where did it originate?
 Baccarat slowly spread across Europe and eventually found its way to the big casinos of Las Vegas. Baccarat has been around for hundreds of years. It started out in Italy as a simple card game that anyone could pick up, then caught on in France, where the upper class made it part of their evening gatherings. From there, it slowly spread across Europe and eventually found its way to the big casinos of Las Vegas.
Now the same game has moved online. Players in Canada and everywhere else can join live tables on sites like Onlyspins casino and watch real dealers deal the cards right in front of them. The stream looks sharp, the dealers are friendly, and the whole setup feels surprisingly close to being in a real casino, just without the noise or the travel.
Why do players enjoy Baccarat?
 High probability of winning. On average, the house edge in Baccarat is only about 1% Among all live games, Baccarat remains a favorite for its simplicity and style. Here are reasons why it keeps winning over Canadian players:
- Simple rules. Baccarat doesn’t require complex combinations: the player chooses a bet on the «player», «banker», or «tie». This makes the game accessible even to those new to online casinos.
- Minimal randomness. Unlike slots or roulette, betting strategy and an understanding of probabilities play a significant role. This appeals to players who enjoy control and analysis.
- High probability of winning. On average, the house edge in Baccarat is only about 1%, especially when betting on the banker. This makes the game one of the most profitable live casino games globally.
- An authentic casino atmosphere. Modern studios with live dealers create a sense of presence. The croupier communicates with players. The action is streamed live. On sites like Onlyspins casino, gamblers can watch every hand in HD, feeling like they’re right in the middle of the action.
Online Baccarat has retained its classic feel while becoming more accessible and dynamic. This is precisely why it consistently holds the attention of Canadian gamblers.
Popular Baccarat Variations in Online Casinos
Modern studios and providers offer numerous variations of the game, each adding its own unique features to the gameplay. Here are the most popular formats found on popular gambling sites, including Onlyspins casino:
Today’s Baccarat proves that a classic never truly goes out of style. The game has evolved in exciting ways, offering players numerous options to explore and choose the version that feels most enjoyable for them.
 By Tom Parkin
November 11th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Fewer employers who skirt workplace safety laws are paying consequences under the Ford PCs, according to data from the Ontario Court of Justice.
But workers continue to pay the price. At least 305 Ontario workers died from workplace injuries or exposures in 2023, the most recent year of settled data from the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board. That’s an eight per cent increase from 2015, when 283 were killed.
Yet the number of employers who pay any court cost for violating health and safety law has dropped by more than half under the Ford PCs.
In 2015, prosecutors working for the Ministry of Labour brought 2,974 OHSA charges to court. By 2023 it had fallen by half to 1,524.
Workers paying the price for Ford PCs, says OFL
“Doug Ford lowers costs for unsafe employers, and workers are the ones left paying the price – sometimes with their lives,” said Laura Walton, president of the Ontario Federation of Labour.
Under the PCs, not only have OHSA charges dropped by half, but charges against employers for violating the Employment Standards Act have fallen 90 per cent, the Ontario Federation of Labour and Data Shows recently revealed.
The Employment Standards Act (ESA) is intended to protect workers and prosecute employers who commit wage theft, stealing tips or not paying wage premiums, such as vacation pay, holiday pay or overtime rates.
By Tom Parkin
November 10th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
In October, Ontario lost 14,700 full time jobs and total hours worked fell by 20.7 million hours.
Though full-time employment fell by 14,700 jobs in October, Ontario’s unemployment rate dropped 0.2 points to 7.6 per cent due to a large increase in part-time employment, according to Statistics Canada’s October Labour Force Survey, released Friday.
Part-time work increased by 100,400 positions, offsetting the full-time job losses.
The trend to part-time work and a cut in average hours of full-time employees resulted in 20.7 million fewer paid work hours in October.
StatsCan estimated the total hours worked in October was 256.9 million, down from 277.6 million hours in September.
Ontario’s construction sector lost 3,000 more jobs in October, seasonally adjusted. Construction job losses now total 41,000 since an employment peak in 2023.
Despite falling job numbers, the Labourers Union continues to publicly praise the Ford PCs and very activity deflect corruption concerns over management of the government’s $2.5 billion Skills Fund, from which LIUNA has received tens of millions of dollars.
LIUNA representatives have characterized the opposition NDP’s questions about public fund misuse as an attack on workers. LIUNA recently withdrew from the Ontario Federation of Labour after the labour umbrella group raised concern about misappropriation of money intended for worker skills training.
Jobs in retailing rebounded in October after slumping to a 13 month low of 821,000 in September. Jobs rose by 23,000 to 844,300, but October employment in retailing remained the second-lowest over the past years and remains 5,300 jobs below levels of October 2024.
Retail sector employment strength is an indicator of affordability and consumer strength.
By Pepper Parr
October29th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
There are savings coming for those who want to and are able to buy a home that is priced at less than $1million
 Can you get a house for $1 million? Not likely in the GTA market. A two bedroom condo is possible. Ontario is expected to move forward with waiving its portion of the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) on new homes priced at $1 million or less purchased by first-time buyers, a measure expected to cost the province roughly $470 million and save purchasers up to $80,000 on a new build.
The initiative mirrors a similar federal proposal and will only take effect once the federal government formally implements its own HST waiver.
The federal one still hasn’t become law yet, though when it does it will be retroactive as of May. If the province is truly matching, they would use the same criteria.
The details are always in the fine print. Everyone is going to want a piece of this business – make sure you are fully informed – ask questions
 By Pepper Parr
October 28th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The 2026 proposed budget has been released online.
The Gazette will have a printed version in hand later today – it runs to more than 500 pages.
The finance department still gets a little silly with the way they report what the tax increase will amount to.
Rather than clearly explain to the public that the city collects taxes for the Region and the School boards, and for the city. And that it has no responsibility for what the Region or the School Board spend (with the exception that Burlington has seven votes at the 27 member Regional Council) But that it is responsible for what it spends and has to collect taxes for CITY services.
 5.8% is the city tax increase  4.49% is the number you get if you include what is being collected for the School boards and the Region People get confused with the information they send out– this practice is right up there with the “dog ate my homework” explanation.
Financial staff come across as looking a little sketchy rather than professional.
City spending is broken into two parts: Operating money – the cost of running the numerous services, which the city is very reluctant to reduce – they don’t want to offend anyone.
Capital expenditures: These are funds that are set aside to replace an asset when it is no longer meeting the need it was built for or if it is cheaper to rebuild rather than repair. The finance people explain that this way: “To ensure our assets do not deteriorate further, the City needs to invest $1.22B (that’s billions) over the next 10 years in infrastructure renewal. Currently we are spending $868M over 10 years.
While important – moving planned capital expenditure back a year, maybe two, doesn’t mean the world is going to end.
Burlington is at one of those awkward financial stages.
Hundreds of developments have been approved – but they aren’t being built. The market just isn’t ready to pay the price.
People want to buy housing that is affordable – problem is there isn’t enough of it. And bankers are being very tight with mortgages.
 Built 50 years ago, the structure is thought to have reached its life span. The roof was repaired recently. We will have more detail once we have gone through the budget book, but an example we can give you is the plan, in the not-too-distant future, to build a new Seniors’ Centre. Admittedly, space is getting tight – the lunch room is close to capacity many days. There is room to expand that space.
The city takes the view that the building has reached the end of its life cycle (it was built 50 years ago) and needs to be replaced. Significant sums are being spent on planning for a new Seniors’ Centre, with funds set aside now to build what might be needed at some future date
The city model is to create an asset, give it a life span and budget for a replacement once the life span has been reached. The city sets aside funds in a reserve account to in order to have the money needed when the asset has to be replaced.
In the private sector, assets are repaired and upgraded as often as possible and only replaced when they can no longer do the job.
The city is a corporation, but it doesn’t have a balance sheet or a Profit and Loss Statement. People with strong private sector experience struggle to understand how municipal finances work.
Much more to come on the Capital Spending.
 By Tom Parkin
October 28th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Almost $1.2 billion in steel and lumber was imported in August even as Canadians paid the price in jobs and gold for Trump’s steep tariffs on saw mill and steel mill workers.
Despite 10 months of Trump and his campaign of economic force against Canada, neither Canada or Ontario has yet put in place “Buy Canada” laws. The federal government has refused to match tariffs. The import of lumber and steel continues.
 Budget due in November will include Buy Canada provisions to come into effect in spring 2026. Prime Minister Mark Carney has recently said his budget next month will include Buy Canada provisions to come into effect in spring 2026.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has yet to signal any timeline for Buy Ontario provisions, though Opposition NDP leader Marit Stiles recently announced her plan to give priority to Ontario-made products
In August, 2025, $945 million in basic and semi-finished iron or steel products were imported into Canada and $217 million in lumber came into our country, according to Statistics Canada’s report on August merchandise trade, released earlier this month.
While the imports continue, Canada is paying the price in workers’ jobs and taxpayer subsidies.
The Canadian government is spending hundreds of millions to keep steel mills afloat and has recently vowed to accelerate saw mill access to $1.2 billion subsidy fund.
Meanwhile, saw mills close in Ear Fall, Ontario, and go on temporary idle in Atitokan and Ignace, Ontario.
 When a sawmill shuts down – it is very hard to reopen. A failure to defend industries at this key moment can result in closures impossible to recover from. When plants are closed and equipment torn out and sold, the jobs rarely come back. Many Canadian communities will rust if Trump’s economic force leaves Canada exporting logs rather than lumber or minerals rather than steel.
If Canada allows Trump to crush value-adding industries, Canadians, who live on a land of forests and minerals, will become dependent on imported lumber and steel.
By Louise Williams
October 29th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Owing to technological advancements and regulatory shifts, Canada’s gambling market is growing year by year. As gambling regulations are primarily under provincial jurisdiction, some provinces such as Ontario have grown more rapidly than others. This has led to the Ontario gambling market experiencing an 8% jump in total wagers in August. In this context, let’s explore the current state of Ontario’s gambling market and factors surrounding this jump.
The Current State of Ontario’s Gambling Market
 Ontario requires compliance with high standards ensuring a safe experience for players. Ontario’s iGaming market has been growing steadily since its launch in April 2022. At this time, Ontario became the first province in Canada to launch a legal and regulated online gambling market. The province implemented a private-operator model, allowing multiple licensed companies to offer online casino games, poker and sports betting under regulatory governance. This marked a change from the previous government monopoly, giving people in the region more choice over their gaming experiences. The regulatory body iGaming Ontario implements strict standards for security, fairness and responsible gambling with player protection tools, spending limits and resources for vulnerable groups. For those in the area, casino.org tested all the online casinos licensed by the AGCO and iGO, confirming compliance with these high standards and ensuring a safe experience for players.
Ontario’s Gambling 8% Spike in August Wagers
Recent figures reveal that the market saw CAD $8.14 billion in total cash wagers in August, up from CAD $7.56 billion in July and revenue was at CAD $335 million, an 8% month-over-month increase. This jump can be explained by the approach of the autumn sports season, particularly the return of the NFL in September which spurred more interest in sports betting. On top of this, peer-to-peer poker contributed to this surge as more people engaged in competitive games. Active players also increased which pushed the total number of accounts up 7%.
 A view that will enhance your visit to the Casino. On the revenue front, online casino came in at CAD $267.8 million for August, a six per cent month over month increase, for an 80% market share. Many people in Ontario prefer having a digital experience rather than going to traditional casinos like Fallsview Casino and Casino Niagara as they can play games like slots whenever they want without having to travel. Unlike other provinces like Alberta which only has one government-operated online platform, Ontario’s regulated market gives players more options. Additionally, in August, new operators entered Ontario’s market, including DraftKings’ Golden Nugget Online Gaming (GNOG), which launched on the 19th. Their entry brought fresh competition and added variety, attracting new players while boosting overall engagement across the platform.
 The 8% jump in total wagers for August also comes at a time of leadership change at iGaming Ontario. The board of directors recently appointed Joseph Hillier as president and CEO, effective September 8, following Martha Otton’s retirement and David Smith’s interim tenure. iGaming Ontario said: “The board of directors looks forward to supporting Joseph as he leads iGaming Ontario to build on Ontario’s iGaming market success and deliver on key priorities including an anti-money laundering system for operators, and a centralised self-exclusion platform for Ontarians.”
The Future of Gambling in Ontario
Ontario has now become one of North America’s key gambling hubs and is now on par with New Jersey and Pennsylvania. As a result, increased wagers and operator revenue could boost provincial tax income and create more opportunities for reinvestment. At the same time, players will be more protected with the implementation of responsible gambling tools, secure payments and strict age verification. In the eyes of the public and other operators, this will make Ontario appear more trustworthy and reliable.
Furthermore, modern technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality and artificial intelligence could dramatically transform Ontario’s iGaming market. VR and AR create realistic, interactive gaming sessions allowing players to envision themselves in immersive virtual gambling environments without leaving home. More AI integration will help operators in Ontario to personalise the experience, helping them to enhance customer support and detect problem gambling patterns. This personalised element could attract more people in Ontario to try out gambling activities, thus boosting engagement, retention, revenue and the overall growth of the market.
 The NFL activity draws thousands to the gambling opportunities. Ultimately, August 2025 was a monumental month for Ontario’s iGaming industry. With recent statistics in mind, it’s clear that the Ontario gambling market is thriving as showcased by the 8% jump in total wagers in the month of August, owing to the return of the NFL, more active users and a growing interest in peer-to-peer poker. With more investment opportunities and global operator interest in Ontario’s offerings, the future looks bright for the province and could inspire other provinces to follow suit. So, if you live in Ontario, why not explore the variety of online casinos from the comfort of your own home?
By Gazette Staff
October 27th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington Community Robotics (BCR) was founded in May 2024 following the conclusion of a local high school’s FIRST Robotics program.
Mentors from the original program came together to keep the legacy of FRC team 2200 going with a vision of creating a new hub for the community focused on STEM education centred on Robotics and related skills.
 An award-winning entry. Our FRC Team, 2200 BCR Blackout, has achieved significant success, including 9 FRC event wins since 2019 and a Provincial Championship in 2023.
The team has consistently won awards for Industrial Design, Autonomous capabilities, Quality, Creativity, Innovation in Control, and Excellence in Engineering.
In 2025, the team finished 2nd on the Hopper Field at the World Championships in Houston, TX.
Pasta Dinner Fundraiser. For $20 per plate, guests can enjoy great company and community spirit while supporting Burlington Community Robotics.
 Not expected to show up at the November dinner – but they would love it if she did. The dinner will include spaghetti, meatballs, Caesar salad, and breadsticks There will be a raffle as well. An opportunity as well to check out some robotics displays. All proceeds will support Burlington Community Robotics.
The dinner will be hosted at the Burlington Lions Club on Saturday, November 22 starting at 5 p.m. for the early dinner, or 7:30 for the late dinner.
Sponsorship doesn’t just help build a competitive robot — it helps keep programs accessible to all students, regardless of their financial background. Every young person deserves the chance to explore STEM, develop real-world skills, and discover their potential — without cost being a barrier.
By Tom Parkin
October 15th,2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Unemployment is up in Canada, most sharply in Ontario, where joblessness has gone from 5.1 per cent to 7.9 per cent over the past 39 months.
At a moment when working families need a job creation plan to kick-start a struggling economy, federal Conservatives leader Pierre Poilievre is diverting people’s attention to the scapegoats historically used by conservatives to protect the status quo.
Poilievre is complaining about immigrants taking jobs.
Poilievre has recently called for expelling temporary foreign workers. Many temporary foreign worker programs were built to suppress wages. But Poilievre opportunistically hides behind that injustice, one conservative governments never cared about before, as he tries to conflate a demand to end an exploitative wage program with a push to expel immigrant workers.
And notice this is not a job creation plan. It’s a depopulation plan. It’s a claim that kicking out one working person will free up a job for someone else. But economics just doesn’t work that way — and if Poilievre doesn’t know it, he has smart people around him who do. They just doesn’t care.
Economists can explain the theory of why depopulation is a doomed economic policy. In short, it’s less people working and less people consuming. Depopulation shrinks GDP. Shrinking GDP kills jobs.
But the best explanations are from evidence. And right now, as Poilievre blames immigration for unemployment, the fact is Canada has had near-zero population growth for the past year — even as unemployment rises.
Statistics Canada estimates Canada’s population increased by only 389,000 people from July 31, 2024 to July 31, 2025. On a population of about 41.5 million, that’s less than one per cent annual growth. It’s like watching the population of a room increasing from 100 to 101 — over a year. It’s no change.
But though population has almost ceased, unemployment continues its climb.
Poilievre’s claim has the benefit of getting him off the hook for having not much of a job creation plan. And it helpfully gives permission to the small group of outright racists to push their race-war agenda under the pointy-hooded guise of Poilievre’s legitimate-sounding argument. Great job, Pierre, I’m sure they appreciate it.
But surely last weekend we all discussed our thanks for being in Canada — and not on the United States where division pushed by the president and his corrupt billionaire friends have everyone wondering whether the mid-term 2026 elections will even happen. Or when confrontations with hooded ICE agents will trigger mass violence. Or if what’s coming are even more catastrophic outcomes that lie on the trajectory they are travelling.
Emotions are running high in America, and when that starts, it doesn’t matter what the facts say. You can’t argue facts against a feeling. And that’s something to consider as we try to stop Canadians from getting swept into U.S. political currents.
Yes, the fact is Canada’s population growth is non-existent. That it may even show negative growth in Q4 2025. That we have controlled boarders. They we have processes to determine asylum cases from those that are not. That claims of “mass immigration” or “mass migration” are completely manufactured fantastical nonsense.
But the feelings don’t stop — not even in the people who may not feel happy or proud about having them. But they still do have them.
For us in Canada, our ability to resist being drawn into the MAGA nightmare rests heavily on developing feelings that displace the MAGA emotion, ones that instead build social solidarity.
Against those in Canada who pit worker against worker using zero-sum stories, pressing political leaders for their plan for job creation and renewed economic growth may be an important project of unity in diversity, of building feelings that we are all together in defending jobs and Canada.
 By Dimitri Festerov
October 14th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
This Betonred Casino review focuses on the essentials Canadians actually need: exact-style bonus mechanics, a clear picture of the games you’ll play, banking rails that work in Canada, and what to expect on withdrawals. You’ll also find a short Betonred Casino login overview and a compact FAQ to tie up loose ends.
Bonuses & Promotions — How Betonred’s Offers Usually Work
Expect a code-driven setup. You’ll enter a Betonred Casino promo code at the cashier; that single code controls the match %, free spins (if any), and all important rules. A common Canada-facing welcome looks like 200% up to C$500 + 100 Free Spins on a featured slot. The typical pairing is 30× wagering calculated on the bonus amount, an initial minimum deposit around C$20, and a C$5 maximum bet while wagering. Free-spin winnings generally post as bonus funds and carry the same wagering multiple unless the promo page states otherwise.
Campaigns rotate, but you’ll periodically see a Betonred Casino no deposit bonus style chip in the C$25–C$30 range. Those no-deposit offers are intentionally tighter: pokies/slots-only, higher wagering (often 40–50×), and a max cashout cap near C$100–C$150 to control exposure. Treat them as a risk-free way to test the cashier and support responsiveness before you plan a bigger deposit.
Ongoing value usually includes weekly reloads (often 40–70% matches, sometimes tied to a free-spin bundle), rolling slot tournaments (cash or spin packs), and cashback credits on weekly net losses (around the 10% mark, typically as bonus funds with standard wagering). The golden rule is simple: confirm the verbatim clause for your code in live chat before you play—wagering multiple, max bet, eligible games, and any max-cashout. Keep a screenshot; it pays for itself at withdrawal time.
For strategy, match the offer to your intent. High-variance “feature hunts” benefit from the 200% runway because you’ll have time to reach the bonus rounds that move the needle. If your top priority is a quick, low-friction cashout, pick a smaller match—or even run a no-bonus deposit—so you don’t need to unwind wagering when you’re ready to withdraw.
Games — Popular Picks with RTP and Plain-English Play Notes
 Betonred Casino is slots-led. Betonred Casino is slots-led, with blackjack/roulette/baccarat on the side, plus some video-poker and specialty titles for a change of tempo. If you’re clearing wagering, pair one medium-variance slot (steady throughput) with one high-variance pick (fireworks). Use demo where available to feel volatility before staking real dollars. The table below highlights widely recognised titles (no Pragmatic), their published RTPs, and why Canadians gravitate to them.
| Game |
Provider |
RTP |
Gameplay snapshot / Why it works |
| Book of Dead |
Play’n GO |
96.21% |
“Book” mechanics with expanding-symbol free spins; swingy but can deliver screen-filling hits when the symbol aligns. |
| Aloha King Elvis |
BGaming |
94.92% |
Lighthearted respins with mid-to-high variance; good for relaxed sessions where you still want bonus pop. |
| 9 Coins Grand Platinum Edition |
Wazdan |
96.04% |
3×3 hold-the-jackpot; Cash Infinity™ nudges frequent sparks, ideal for short, punchy bursts. |
| 20 Coins |
Wazdan |
96.15% |
Adjustable volatility (Low/Med/High) lets you tune risk; a smart “Medium” pick during wagering. |
| Cash Pig |
Booming Games |
≈95.10% |
Straightforward base game; multipliers do the heavy lifting in features—easy to read and play. |
| Book of Ra Deluxe |
Greentube/Novomatic |
95.10% |
The nostalgic “Book” blueprint; streaky but satisfying when the expanding symbol co-operates. |
| Buffalo Dale: Grandways |
GameBeat |
96.19% |
Ways-to-win brawler with multiplier-boosted free spins; built for adrenaline runs. |
If a slot supports an in-game volatility selector (many Wazdan titles do), set it to Medium during bonus play to reduce long dry spells without losing too many feature looks.
Payments for Canadians — Choose the Rail That Fits Your Plan
 Your cashier choice depends on your goal: grinding a bonus vs. fastest withdrawal. Anything not printed in black and white on your landing page should be treated as campaign-dependent; confirm large limits with chat before moving four figures.
- Interac e-Transfer / Interac Online: Near-instant deposits; withdrawals usually 1–3 business days after operator approval; lowest friction for Canadian banks.
- Visa / Mastercard (credit/debit): Instant funding; some issuers block gaming transactions; withdrawals typically revert to bank transfer/Interac.
- iDebit / INSTADEBIT / MuchBetter (where supported): Fast deposits with straightforward KYC; selected wallets support withdrawals.
- Crypto (BTC + majors, if available): Quick approvals once verified; withdraw to a self-custody wallet (not an exchange) to avoid extra checks.
- Bank transfer / eCheck: Operator processing usually 24–48 hours, then 1–3 business days to land, bank-dependent.
- Minimums (typical baselines): Deposits from C$10–C$20; withdrawals from C$30.
Practical housekeeping keeps payouts on schedule: ensure the account name on your withdrawal method matches your Betonred profile; avoid switching rails mid-cashout; if you deposited in a non-CAD currency, check potential FX spreads with your bank/wallet. Completing KYC before your first withdrawal turns “waiting room” time into “payout pending” time.
Betonred Casino Login — Fast, Mobile-Optimised Access
The Betonred Casino login flow is browser-based on desktop and mobile; no separate app is required. Sign in with your registered email (or username) and password. On a fresh device—or after clearing cookies—expect a quick email code or device confirmation. If you’ve forgotten your password, use Forgot password and follow the link sent to your inbox (check spam/junk if it’s slow to arrive). For smoother reviews later, keep your profile email current, complete KYC early, and avoid frequent VPN region changes, which can trigger additional checks during sign-in or cash-out.
KYC & Payout Speed — Do the Boring Part Once, Then Relax
 Security isn’t the bottleneck; identity checks are. Security isn’t the bottleneck; identity checks are. Upload a clear photo of your Canadian government ID and a recent utility bill/bank statement showing your address; if requested, add a selfie for a match. With clean documents on file, operator processing typically completes within 24–48 hours. After that, Interac and bank transfers land in about 1–3 business days, while crypto can clear much faster depending on network conditions and the exchange/wallet you use on your side.
If you’re planning a C$2,000+ withdrawal, ask live chat to confirm both per-transaction and daily caps for your chosen method before you start. Having the numbers in writing eliminates friction when you actually hit your target.
Support That Helps — Chat First for Money Questions
When a detail touches your wallet—“What’s the max bet while wagering on this code?”, “Are Interac deposits eligible for this bonus?”, “Can I split a withdrawal?”—open live chat and ask the agent to paste the verbatim clause from the T&Cs. Save a screenshot. Email support is fine for document checks or multi-step threads, but it’s slower; chat transcripts function as payout insurance if anything gets fuzzy later.
Conclusion — Who Will Get the Most From Betonred Casino?
 If your priorities are a slots-led lobby, Canadian-friendly payments, and code-based promos you can lock in writing, Betonred Casino is an easy shortlist. The routine that consistently works is simple: confirm the bonus clause in chat, send a modest test deposit to verify the cashier end-to-end, complete KYC early, run a two-slot rotation (steady + spiky) while you meet wagering, and set clear stop-loss and walk-away numbers before you spin. That’s how you convert a generous headline into funds that actually arrive.
FAQ: Quick answers Canadians ask most
Is Betonred Casino available for Canadians?
Yes—Canadian players are accepted; play responsibly.
How do I use a Betonred Casino promo code?
Enter it at the cashier before depositing; confirm wagering, max bet, eligible games, any max-cashout in chat and keep a screenshot.
 Bonuses are a large part of online wagering What is the Betonred Casino no deposit bonus?
Periodic C$25–C$30 chips with higher wagering (often 40–50×), pokies-only play, and a small max-cashout (about C$100–C$150).
How does the Betonred Casino login work?
Browser login with email/username + password; new devices may trigger a quick email code for security.
 By Nikhil Fearstone
October 14th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
On October 1, 2025, Ontario increased the minimum wage to $17.60 an hour, starting from $17.20. It is a 40-cent raise that will impact over 800,000 employees throughout the province, with a significant number living in Burlington. That would translate to approximately $832 an annual pre-tax increase to a full-time employee. It is not the life-altering number, but it suffices to change the mindset of people in relation to their monthly expenditure, particularly in the areas of leisure and comforts.
 Burlington is characterized by a balanced lifestyle. The citizens of Burlington are characterized by a balanced lifestyle. They attach importance to work, time with families, and recreation, be it in cycling along the lake, participating in community activities, or visiting local cafes. Even a slight increase in income can transform the appearance of weekends for those who are on a minimum wage. An extra bit of breathing space could include one additional family outing, a night out at a concert, or some impulsive buying that was not accessible earlier.
It is reported that the average Burlington citizen spends approximately $45 a month on leisure and entertainment. An increase in salary would push that figure up quite comfortably. It is possible that more individuals will be willing to visit the local recreation, make short trips locally, or patronize other small businesses that provide experiences instead of necessities. It is a spillover effect, which not only positively impacts the workers but also the community at large.
However, outside and social life is not the only thing that attracts attention when paychecks increase by a few dollars. Digital entertainment usually slips into that new zone of disposable income. Free and cheap online games are convenient, flexible, and need not be a big commitment. There is a high possibility that a variety of workers, and particularly younger workers, may begin to look at quick, casual games during their downtime, which is entertaining yet does not strain the budget. Online poker in Canada has been a typical way of relaxing without spending much, and with the wage raise currently being implemented, more Burlington residents can be motivated to view it as a simple and cheap part of their leisure experience.
 People don’t necessarily spend much more; they just try new things. Online poker, often in casual form, has become a common selection among those who desire to play poker in short spurts, which do not require hours or huge amounts of money. One can easily sit down and play a couple of hands and walk away without feeling bound to a time. Having an additional spare income may appear to be an innocent method of relaxing after a working day, just like picking up a cup of coffee on the go or having a home cinema.
 In Burlington, that might mean a better balance between needs and enjoyment, whether it’s a walk by the lake,or a few quiet minutes spent on a favorite online pastime. Economists often note that when incomes rise, spending tends to diversify rather than simply expand. People don’t necessarily spend much more; they just try new things. The digital leisure space, apps, streaming platforms, and casual gaming have become one of the main outlets for that exploration. And in Burlington, where the pace of life blends urban comfort with a touch of small-town rhythm, small digital hobbies fit naturally into daily routines.
Ontario’s new minimum wage might not drastically change lifestyles overnight, but it creates a little more space for comfort. For many in Burlington, that might mean a better balance between needs and enjoyment, whether it’s a walk by the lake, a local concert, or a few quiet minutes spent on a favorite online pastime.
By Norma Westminster
October 13th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Gambling businesses have been locked in a tug-of-war with laws and regulations since forever, it seems. Nowadays, however, the activity is pretty much legalized and regulated in most geographies, but that doesn’t mean it’s completely safe.
Sure, laws and regulatory commissions have ensured the activity is more ethical, and that players are protected from malpractices. In places like the UK, they even went a step further by introducing restrictions on how gambling is advertised and how much people can spend on it. Still, regulations can only help so much, and players need to realize they bear a portion of responsibility as well. That’s something even casinos emphasize on their sites, and that’s something we’ll go over in this article.
Set Clear Boundaries
 The most important thing to remember if you want to play responsibly is to always set loss or deposit limits. You can even do this on your online casino account, provided it has the modern tools integrated in the user menu. Always ask yourself what amount of money you are comfortable losing, and treat that amount as a budget for having fun. Don’t think of it as an investment or as a means of winning more money, as this mindset will likely make losses more frustrating. Then play until you’ve wagered the set amount, and don’t go overboard, regardless of whether you’ve won or not.
A good way to manage your spending and simultaneously get more game time is to use bonuses. This may sound tiresome, given the whole verification process that is mandatory after signing up. However, there are plenty of online casino no verification withdrawal Canada sites where you can deposit and cash out funds without going through the KYC check. So, once you spend your bonus on one website, move on to the next one.
Understand the Risks
One of the best practices for responsible gambling online is to get fully acquainted with risks, and not just in theory but in practice too. People tend to fully understand the odds are stacked against them, but often still cling to wishful thinking when they wager real money. Here’s what you can do to dispel the illusion and get more realistic expectations. Playing in demo mode or using sweepstakes casinos.
When you play with imaginary currency, you can still keep track of how much you are spending and winning. Even better, you can do multiple simulations using your predetermined budget and see firsthand how much you might win or lose with those limits in place.
Avoid Chasing Losses
 When talking about responsible gambling best practices, keeping emotions in check should probably come first. While it’s true you cannot always control how you feel, you can still decide whether to act on that feeling or not. Stuffing a big losing streak will feel frustrating, even if there is no money involved, and you will get the urge to try and win your money back. That urge should be your cue to take a breather and back off for the day.
In general, understanding risks and playing with a small budget should prevent these negative emotions from surfacing. But you should also avoid playing while being tipsy or intoxicated, as you are more prone to impulsive decisions in that state.
Take Regular Breaks
It will always be beneficial for your budget and mental health to take breaks and clear your head. This is especially true if you play casino games like poker and blackjack, which can be more competitive and require focus. You can go on group walks, spend time outside, and even talk with others who have the same hobby as you, to hear about their perspective.
When you take these breaks, the mind has a chance to decompress, and you’ll be far less irritable. This is important as gamblers can start to take riskier bets out of frustration.
Use Available Tools
 Believe it or not, sticking to the tools for responsible gambling practices online casinos offer will make your life easier. A lot of modern sites have special settings where you can put limits on spending and losses. Not only that, but these tools also keep logs of your activity and can give you insight into how much you’ve spent so far. It’s called a reality check tool, and it’s very effective for avoiding common gambler fallacies that players are prone to. Specifically, players tend to convince themselves that they are about “even” when it comes to their loss-win ratio, and the reality check tool will set the record straight.
The tools also allow you to take time out or self-exclude. So if you wish to take a few days off, it’s possible to deny yourself access. Or, if you are trying to quit or take a long break, the self-exclusion register is a neat solution. Not only will you be denied access, you’ll also stop receiving notifications and promos that are taunting you to get back into action.
Know When to Seek Help
 Finally, if you tried all of the above-mentioned approaches and are still finding yourself constantly thinking about gambling, it might be a good idea to talk to a professional. Gambling sites and regulators usually have contact information for professional counselors or support groups. These are programs that these businesses need to fund and support in order to legally operate, and players are encouraged to use them.
By Dmitriy Ig
October 10th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Canadians looking for a CAD-first home for online slots Canada real money should start with SlotShake. It puts Interac and straightforward cashouts up front, pairs them with a steady flow of fresh releases, and keeps the lobby easy to navigate on mobile. If you’re comparing slots Canada sites, this review focuses on the practical stuff—bonuses, banking, session flow, and payout reality—so you can play online slots Canada with clear expectations across real money slots Canada sessions.
Claim Your Welcome — Read the Fine Print First
Starting with the promos makes sense, because that’s where most Canadian players decide whether to stay for a long run or just sample. SlotShake positions itself as a new slots casino with a rotating mix of a welcome package (typically a deposit match plus free spins), reload deals, cashback, and occasional tournaments. Exact percentages, caps, eligible games, and expiry windows are not disclosed as fixed values by the operator and can change frequently, which is standard across slots Canada sites. Always check the live promotions page and the full T&Cs before you click “claim.”
As orientation—not a promise—market norms for match offers often sit around 30x–45x wagering. Slots usually contribute 100% toward turnover, while table or live titles may contribute less or be excluded. Many offers cap the max bet during wagering (often CAD 5–10) and may limit free-spin winnings. If your plan is to play online slots Canada real money with steady bankroll discipline, choose promos that align with the way you actually spin: frequent small sessions benefit from reloads or low-friction cashback; marathon grinders do better with clear wagering rules and generous time windows.
Pro tip: Write down your turnover target before spinning (e.g., CAD 200 bonus × 35x = CAD 7,000). Seeing the number prevents impulse over-betting when you’re close.
Pro tip: If you primarily play tables, a raw-cash session or cashback can beat a big match that barely counts your preferred games.
Bank in CAD — Use Interac & Withdraw Faster
 For Canadian players, payments decide how “real” a casino feels. SlotShake’s cashier is designed for CAD, with methods Canadians expect. Availability can vary by province and verification status, so treat the cashier as the source of truth on the day you deposit.
Interac e-Transfer and Interac Online typically headline the online slots Canada banking picture thanks to familiarity and traceable movement. Cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted, though some banks decline gambling transactions; having a backup like iDebit/INSTADEBIT or an approved wallet (e.g., MuchBetter) saves time. Prepaid vouchers such as Flexepin or Paysafecard are handy for budgeting deposits, but you’ll need an alternative method for withdrawals. Crypto (BTC/ETH/LTC and similar) often provides the fastest outflow, with the usual price-volatility caveat.
 KYC is standard before your first cashout—photo ID and proof of address that match your profile. Internal approvals are often same-day; network times depend on rails. In practice, crypto and wallets tend to beat bank transfers. Specific limits, fees, and timelines are not published as evergreen data by the operator, so consider your first withdrawal a systems test: cash out a small amount to confirm the pipeline works before scaling stakes.
Pro tip: Set your account currency to CAD immediately and keep deposits tidy (round amounts). It simplifies bankroll tracking and avoids FX drift if a processor temporarily routes via another currency.
Spin What’s New — Explore Fresh Releases Without Guesswork
SlotShake leans into its name: the lobby’s emphasis is slot content, with a steady flow of new slots online beside established favourites. Expect a spectrum of volatility (from smooth, mid-range titles to high-variance bonus chasers), modern mechanics such as hold-and-win, cascading reels, symbol upgrades, and multiplier ladders, plus a range of themes for short and long sessions alike. Live dealer availability and exact studio rosters are information not disclosed by the operator, but RNG table staples (blackjack, roulette, baccarat) generally round out the library for variety.
If you’re here to play new slots online, make the “New” or “Recent” filter your home base. Each game’s info pane matters more than most players think: volatility descriptors, feature frequency hints, and paytable quirks change how a session feels. High-volatility releases deliver lean stretches punctuated by heavy bonuses; medium-volatility titles are better for a measured budget with regular feature pops.
Pro tip: Sample a new release at modest stakes for 20–30 spins. If the feature rhythm suits your temperament and bankroll, scale; if not, switch early and preserve session energy.
Why Canadians Pick SlotShake — A Snapshot of Strengths
Decision time often comes down to a few practical benefits. Here’s what typically resonates with Canadian players considering slots Canada sites like SlotShake:
- CAD-first payments with Interac options and familiar bank-connected rails.
- New-release momentum that keeps the lobby fresh for habitual spinners.
- Mobile-friendly navigation so short sessions are as smooth as long ones.
- Predictable KYC path that rewards early verification with faster cashouts.
None of these replace reading terms or trial-running your own methods, but they serve as a reliable compass when comparing short-listed casinos.
Closing note on this section: treat these strengths as starting points; your own cashier lineup and local game availability always take precedence over general expectations.
Make Your Call — Is SlotShake the Right Fit for Canada?
 If your routine is to play new slots online a few evenings a week, clear a sensible bonus, and cash out in CAD without drama, SlotShake checks the right boxes. If your routine is to play new slots online a few evenings a week, clear a sensible bonus, and cash out in CAD without drama, SlotShake checks the right boxes. It’s built for players who want momentum—new releases to explore—without sacrificing predictable payments. Table-first players may find bonus weighting less attractive, which is normal across the industry; however, core RNG tables are present for breaks between slot sessions. Overall, SlotShake focuses on the fundamentals that matter in Canada: Interac-friendly deposits, transparent verification, and a lobby that keeps bringing fresh titles.
Regional Nuance & Operator Disclosures
A reminder grounded in reality: because SlotShake serves multiple regions, what you see in the cashier and lobby can differ slightly by province and account status. That includes payment methods, bonus displays, and certain titles. Specific processing times, fees, or provider lists are often not disclosed by the operator in a permanent format. When in doubt, the live cashier and promo pages are your most accurate sources at any given moment, and support can clarify edge cases quickly.
FAQ
 Does SlotShake support CAD and Interac?
Yes—CAD is typically supported, with Interac options commonly available alongside cards, vouchers, and sometimes crypto. Availability depends on your region and verification status; confirm in the live cashier.
How long do withdrawals take at SlotShake?
Exact timelines aren’t fixed publicly by the operator. Internal approvals are often same-day; wallets and crypto tend to move faster than bank rails once KYC is complete.
How do I find and play new releases at SlotShake?
Use the “New” or “Recent” filters in the slots lobby, read the game info pane for volatility and features, then start at modest stakes. Adjust once you’re comfortable with the rhythm.
By Sadie Smith
October 6th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
From Raptors games to rapid winnings: The rise of fast payout casinos in Canada
No one likes to wait, whether you are waiting in line for your coffee at Tim Hortons or waiting for your barber to finish with another client. In Canada’s online gambling world, the narrative remains the same. No player wants to wait for days before their payouts enter their accounts: everybody wants to withdraw their winnings as fast as possible. And because of that, fast payout casinos in Canada have been coming up really fast in an attempt to fit the needs of players.
 After a big win or a big game, it becomes quite frustrating if you have to wait for a couple of days in order to make withdrawals. In a 2022 online survey by PayNearMe, 39% of the respondents stated that the process of withdrawing funds from casinos was normally too long, and that made it a big pain point. In fact, 29% said that the lengthy process was a potential reason for abandoning a betting app. If only players could get platforms that allowed them to have faster payouts, then they would have better experiences. This is the key marketing point that many competitive fast payout casinos in Canada are coming with, bringing a big shift to the gambling landscape.
After a big win or a big game, it becomes quite frustrating if you have to wait for a couple of days in order to make withdrawals. This is normally the case with casinos that use traditional modes of payment like direct bank transfers and cards. Sometimes, you find yourself waiting for up to five days! And it is even worse during the weekends and holidays since banks only operate on working days.
But apart from just being fast, are there any other advantages that make the casinos desirable?
Quick withdrawals enhance financial control
You can easily attest to the idea that you are able to better control your finances if you have your money when you have planned for it. If you can access your money sooner, you will be able to make a logical decision about whether you will reinvest, withdraw or save without adding any complications.
Conversely, delayed withdrawals make players continue gambling while waiting for their winnings to come. In the process, most players find themselves dipping into the winning they had originally intended to cash out. In fact, that is one of the strategies that some casinos use in order to make their clients gamble more. Withhold winning for up to 48 hours and players get the urge to continue with their games before they withdraw. With rapid playouts, you are able to enforce self control, which is a real benefit to many.
Transparency and efficiency operate on the same plane
 A casino where you are able to withdraw your winnings in 24 hours or less. If you have realized, fast withdrawal casinos are often transparent with their terms of services and wagering requirements. They don’t hide behind vague “up to 7 days” terms and avoid unnecessary pending periods. These delayed withdrawals are normally common with unregulated casinos which push the dishonest process in order to have players gambling further or abandoning their request.
The clarity with fast payout casinos reduce confusion and unnecessary back and forth communication with customer service. Instead of being taken through loops of endless documentation, why not go for a casino that only asks for complete verification once (during sign-up) and after that it’s just a walk in the park?
What makes a casino a fast-payout?
But one question that might come up would be the elements that make a casino be termed as fast withdrawal. In essence, just like its description, it is a casino where you are able to withdraw your winnings in 24 hours or less.
One of the things that makes a casino fast-payout is efficient payment methods. For example, it is more efficient to use crypto payments and e-wallets instead of using cards and bank transfers. You see, cryptocurrencies (under blockchain technology) are inherently fast, with transfers being confirmed within a couple of minutes. Slow networks like Bitcoin might need 10 hours for confirmation, plus an extra hour for settlement, while faster networks like Solana might take just a few seconds.
In comparison, bank payments take anywhere between 1 and 5 days to complete the whole process. Compare that with the slowest crypto network, and there is actually no comparison.
Another thing is upfront verification. These casinos verify your identity once you register, and you do not have to wait until you are trying to withdraw. Actually, they encourage players to complete their KYC early in order to avoid frustration. In addition to that, fast payout casinos have automated systems that approve withdrawals within hours. This counters the manual approval systems which often cause delays.
Competition is making everything better
 The online casino market is big and it’s becoming even bigger. Statista reported that by January 2024, the Canadian gambling industry was worth US$ 14.2 billion, with a total of 670 businesses. Another report by Grand View Research expected that the Canadian online gambling market was to grow at a CAGR of 14.3% between 2025 and 2030. Now, each operator wants a chunk of that market, and the only way to do it is give players what they want. This would allow them to have a larger following.
The best way to amass a huge following is by increasing the payout speed of casinos. More and more players are preferring them, and it only makes sense that operators jump into the bandwagon. The competition is intensifying and you can be sure that it’s a big plus to players who don’t want to deal with long delays.
 By Games Hub
October 4th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Sports betting and online casinos are two platforms where gambling is flourishing in 2025. They are both moving at a high rate, although not necessarily due to the same reasons. One of them has the power of live events and live interactions, whereas the other has the power of immersive play and quick online transactions. They are all together defining entertainment time spent by millions of people.
Market Growth in Numbers
 Sophisticated data applications are driving market growth. The betting business in the sports world is expanding worldwide. Projections indicate it will hit $119 billion in the current year with legalization, mobile applications, and sophisticated data applications driving its growth. The market may grow as high as 235 billion by the year 2033, with current trends indicating that betting has been adopted very fast into the daily routine of digital life.
Casinos on the internet are forging their own course. Another revenue in 2025 will be between 21 and 38 billion with the help of mobile play, cryptocurrency transactions, and live dealer tables. The industry is growing at a rate of approximately 12 percent, and as such, it is one of the fastest-growing digital entertainment industries. Approximately three-quarters of playing online casinos today occurs on smartphones, which is evidence of the fact that convenience is a significant factor.
 In Canada, gambling habits show a strong base of online players, with hockey still leading the way in sports betting. At the same time, online casinos have been gaining ground steadily, thanks to easy mobile access and the popularity of live dealer games. For players comparing options, resources like GamesHub’s list of top Canada online casinos highlight just how wide the field has become.
What’s Fueling the Rise?
The two industries are technology-driven. AI provides a customized betting experience, blockchain offers trust and transparency, and VR/AR would provide additional immersion. The emergence of 5G has ensured the smoothness of mobile play, and digital wallets and cryptocurrencies ensure that the transaction will remain fast and safe.
Sports betting is another category that is boosted by the emerging esports sphere, in which real-time participation and streaming are at the heart of the process. Online casinos, however, are paying much attention to the simulation of the gameplay environment. Live dealer tables, interactive chat, and mobile platforms that are well developed provide the users with a feeling that he or she is in a casino without leaving the house at all.
Who’s Playing Both?
Gen Z and millennials are at the heart of the growth. They are not afraid of switching between sports betting and online casinos, and frequently on the same application. This generation crossover is supported by hybrid platforms, which support the two alternatives, allowing a person to bet on a Saturday hockey game and then switch to poker or blackjack.
This is known among the operators, and this is why marketing is moving forward to mobile-first campaigning, crypto-friendly transactions, and social interactive functions. Calendars and seasonal events attract bettors, and constant casino promotions ensure that a bettor is kept entertained even after the final whistle.
The Road Ahead
Sports betting and online casinos are growing for different reasons, but their futures are tied together. Sportsbooks bring energy and immediacy, casinos bring variety and depth. As long as players want both, platforms will keep blending the experiences–making gambling in 2025 less about choosing sides and more about having everything in one place.
 By Gazette Staff
October 4th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Knowing people in the right places makes a difference.
The latest Provincial Public Accounts reveal just how much of your taxpayer dollars are flowing through the quasi-partisan Caucus Services Bureaus — a.k.a. the piggy bank for government and opposition consultants.
The Liberals and Greens are MIA – no cash receipts — but the PCs and NDP were writing some pretty hefty cheques last year.
Just the Highlights:
 NICK KOUVALIS’s twin outfits, Campaign Research and Campaign Support, cleaned up with a combined $1,655,450 haul- DIMITRI PANTAZOPOULOS and RICHARD CIANO’s Yorkville Strategies raked in $201,173
- Geppetto Technologies — which the PC Party previously used to deploy campaign canvassers — scored $252,657
- WARREN KINSELLA’s Daisy Consulting snagged $67,000
- Unilogic Solutions banked $395,500
- MacPhie & Co.: $185,970
- Snapstream: $101,600
- Testerdigital: $74,580
- Blue Labs Analytics: $67,000
Plus: another $1.14M spread across firms that fell under the $50K disclosure threshold (read: plenty of mystery players still pocketed public cash).
 Spending by political parties – the growth is not healthy.
By Paul Deegan
October 4th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
This National Newspaper Week, as we face the rise of fake news amplified by algorithms that prioritize engagement, it is in everyone’s interest to protect the truth.
 In their 2018 book Truth Decay, Jennifer Kavanagh and Michael D. Rich of the RAND Corporation, wrote about the role news publishers and broadcasters play in mediating information – separating fact from fiction. They differentiate between these businesses and Big Tech platforms, arguing that because the former can be sued for defamation and hold themselves to journalistic standards, they remain accountable.
According to Kavanagh and Rich, “the filters and algorithms embedded in social media platforms and search engines, such as Google, contribute to Truth Decay — and particularly to increasing disagreement and the blurring of the distinction between opinion and fact — by inserting bias into the types of information a person is likely to encounter or engage with.”
 Generative artificial intelligence has compounded the problem. In the seven years since their book was published, generative artificial intelligence has compounded the problem. AI companies are flagrantly scraping and summarizing content directly from published news articles. This is theft on an industrial scale – plain and simple.
Publishers are being harmed because these artificial intelligence overviews are so detailed that the reader often stays within Big Tech’s walled garden, rather than being pointed electronically to news websites via links. No clicks mean no money for publishers to reinvest in fact-based, fact-checked journalism.
Readers are being harmed too. All too often, these artificial intelligence overviews serve up slop: inaccurate, irrelevant, out-of-date, and even harmful information. In today’s attention economy, these companies prioritize engagement. That leaves it up to the user to try to separate fact from fiction.
In a world of misinformation and disinformation, we need fact-based, fact-checked journalism. Crowdsourcing is not journalism. There are no alternative facts: there are just facts. And Canadians need facts to live their lives and to make informed decisions that empower them to participate effectively in democratic processes.
 Federal government advertisement. “Buy Canadian” is part of the solution. According to a recent report from Canadian Media Means Business, 92 per cent of digital ad dollars are now going to non-Canadian platforms, which puts the sustainability of Canadian media in jeopardy. Governments across Canada should not be spending their advertising dollars with foreign search and social media giants. They should walk the talk and “Buy Canadian”. They should follow the Government of Ontario’s lead and set aside a minimum of 25 per cent of their advertising budgets for trusted news brands. And that should be one of the planks in the Government of Canada’s new Buy Canadian Policy, which seeks to ensure our economy is resilient and self-reliant.
Beyond ensuring federal advertising is placed in a brand safe manner and without any additional cost to the taxpayer, a federal set-aside would send an important signal to other orders of government and to the private sector about protecting Canada’s digital sovereignty and sustaining independent, commercially viable public interest journalism.
More than 85 per cent of adults in Canada turn to newspaper content each week, and two-thirds trust that content – ahead of television, radio, magazines, social media, and online search.
Editor’s note: That statement is not completely true. Older people used to getting a newspaper delivered to the doorstep are still reading newspapers. The people under 35 – not so much.
Paul Deegan is president and chief executive officer of News Media Canada
By Smantha Serle
September 30th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
In online poker, choosing a reliable source of information, deals, and traffic data matters. Two well-known names are WorldPokerDeals (WPD) and PokerScout. Each aims to help poker players make better choices, but they do so in different ways.
WorldPokerDeals, founded in 2013 and led by Rodion Longa, is a portal built by poker fans and experts. It emphasizes deals, promotions, poker room options, multilingual support, and direct contact with real staff. WPD aims for personalization, value, and trust, while also guiding players on key issues such as the legality of online poker in different regions.
 PokerScout is a traffic and site information platform that offers live traffic stats for poker sites, site reviews, guides, and news. Its strength is data, comparisons, and helping you see where the action is happening.
This article compares them across important dimensions: portfolio, traffic and metrics, customer service, promotions, reliability and recognition, and localization, and then helps you decide which one might better suit your priorities.
Portfolio & Metrics
WorldPokerDeals offers one of the most comprehensive portfolios in the industry, covering more than 40 poker rooms across every category — from fully regulated sites to offshore rooms, crypto-friendly platforms, and even private poker apps and clubs. This variety makes it easy for players to find what fits their goals, whether they want maximum rakeback, softer fields, or innovative payment options like crypto. On top of that, WPD provides clear guidance on safety and availability, ensuring that the sites shown are genuinely accessible in your region.
PokerScout has built its reputation around traffic statistics, tracking player numbers across 70+ rooms with updates every few minutes. While this data is useful, it represents just one dimension of players’ needs. Unlike WPD, PokerScout doesn’t offer the same level of choice in deals, promotions, and tailored options that can directly impact a player’s bottom line.
In other words, if your priority is value and variety, WorldPokerDeals delivers far more than raw traffic numbers. It shows where you can play and ensures you get the most out of your volume through better deals, promotions, and personalized options.
Traffic Data & Real-Time Monitoring
PokerScout is well known for its live traffic updates, showing cash-game activity and peak times across many sites. This gives players a snapshot of where games are currently running.
 WorldPokerDeals, however, goes beyond just displaying numbers. While it may not offer a standalone dashboard, the team provides context and guidance on what those numbers mean for your bankroll. They combine traffic insights with practical advice on game softness, regional availability, and the real value of joining a site. This player-oriented approach ensures that you’re not just chasing the busiest tables but also choosing the rooms where you can earn more through better deals, rakeback, and promotions.
In practice, PokerScout delivers statistics, while WPD turns information into actionable value, making it the stronger option for players who want results, not just raw data.
Customer Service & Human Interaction
WorldPokerDeals sets itself apart with its hands-on, human-centered support. Players can reach the team through live chat, email, Telegram, WhatsApp, and other messengers — and every interaction is handled by real poker players who understand the game, not automated bots.
Beyond answering questions, WPD staff provide personalized recommendations, helping you choose the best option among 50+ poker rooms and 30+ clubs based on your goals, region, and playing style.
PokerScout, by comparison, is designed primarily as an informational portal. While it offers reviews, guides, and traffic data, it does not focus on one-on-one guidance or personalized support. Players can use the site’s resources to research, but they won’t get the same direct interaction or tailored advice.
For anyone who values real conversations and expert input from people who play the game, WorldPokerDeals is the stronger choice. It transforms poker guidance from static information into a collaborative experience, ensuring players get more than just data — they get solutions that truly fit their needs.
Promotions, Deals, & Value Offers
WPD is built around offering deals: rakeback, promotions, special offers, and access to poker rooms and clubs. They offer a wide selection of poker rooms and apps, often including options for crypto, and a good variety in promotions. Their positioning is “help you earn” by pairing you with advantageous promotions.
PokerScout does list site reviews, bonuses, and promotional info, but its primary focus is not on being an affiliate offering exclusive deals. Its strength is more in reporting/promoting transparently rather than campaigning or negotiating special deals. Thus, if deal value is your priority, WPD is more likely to offer specialized promotions, especially from affiliate partnerships.
Reliability & Recognition
 WPD has been recognized publicly. According to Trustpilot, they have a strong rating among their users. They’ve won the iGB Affiliate Awards (Best Poker Affiliate) in 2019 and 2025, among others. Their presence in multiple languages and direct support help build trust.
PokerScout, meanwhile, has established its reputation over many years as a reliable traffic tracker. It is well known in the poker community. It is also part of Catena Media (since the acquisition in 2017), which gives it infrastructure and resources.
So both are reliable in their domains: WPD is reliable for deals, WPD is recognized, and PokerScout is reliable for data and comparisons, with an established reputation.
Localization & Languages
WPD supports multiple languages (English, Spanish, Russian, Brazilian Portuguese) and offers support through real people in different regions. This allows localized deals, communication, and context.
PokerScout also provides content in many languages (menus and articles). Still, while its global reach is large, some parts of its service (especially data tools) may be less regionally personalized (i.e., deals specific to your country) than a local affiliate could do.
Summary: Which One Should You Choose?
WorldPokerDeals and PokerScout are respected platforms, but fill different roles in the poker ecosystem.
- If you aim to access exclusive deals, rakeback, crypto payments, and direct support from real people, WorldPokerDeals is the right fit.
- If you’re more interested in objective traffic numbers, site rankings, and seeing where the action is in real time, PokerScout has the advantage.
- For localization and human guidance, WPD is stronger, while for broad, data-driven insights, PokerScout delivers.
 Helping poker players make better choices. Final Thoughts
WorldPokerDeals is ideal for players who want to maximize value through deals and personal support, whether in legal rooms, offshore sites, or poker apps. PokerScout is the go-to resource for those who care most about accurate traffic data and impartial comparisons across the industry.
For many players, the best approach is to use both together: start with PokerScout to see which sites are busiest, then turn to WorldPokerDeals to secure the best promotion and personalized assistance before jumping in.
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