Good morning! This is The Oakville Digest, your trusted guide to everything happening in the beautiful town of Oakville, Ontario.

Here is what to expect in today’s issue:

• 🇨🇦 New Tariffs, and what they mean for Canadians

• 🦫 Canada’s Groundhogs split on Spring or Winter

• 📅 Some events to start your week!

Thanks for being part of our growing community. Let us know what you loved in today’s issue, and….

Let’s dive in!

News

🇨🇦 New U.S. Tariffs: What They Mean for You

Big trade news: The U.S. is slapping a 25% tariff on most Canadian products (10% on energy), and Canada is hitting back. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced immediate counter-tariffs on American goods like beer, wine, bourbon, fruits, vegetables, clothing, and more.

So, what does this mean for you? Prices on some everyday items could go up, especially if they come from the U.S. If you work in manufacturing, energy, or agriculture, these tariffs might also impact jobs and businesses on both sides of the border.

The U.S. says the move is about border security, while Canadian officials and industry leaders warn of serious economic fallout. Some provincial leaders want tough retaliation, while others are calling for negotiation.

With billions at stake, experts say this could be the start of a bigger trade battle. In the meantime, this is an opportunity to support Canadian businesses. Shopping local, choosing Canadian-made products, and exploring homegrown alternatives can help keep money in the community and support jobs.

🦫 Spring or More Winter? Canada’s Groundhogs Can’t Agree

Canada’s famous groundhogs are split on whether we should expect an early spring or six more weeks of winter. Ontario’s Wiarton Willie didn’t see his shadow on Sunday morning, predicting warmer weather ahead. But Shubenacadie Sam in Nova Scotia and Fred la Marmotte in Quebec both saw their shadows—meaning winter may not be over just yet.

As per tradition, if a groundhog sees its shadow, winter sticks around; if not, spring arrives early. In Wiarton, Mayor Jay Kirkland declared Willie’s hopeful forecast to a cheering crowd. Meanwhile, Sam and Fred faced chilly -18°C temperatures before predicting more cold ahead.

In the U.S., Punxsutawney Phil also saw his shadow, aligning with Sam and Fred. So, will winter linger, or will spring arrive early? Only time will tell—but for now, Oakville residents might want to keep those winter coats handy!

Community Spotlight

🚌 Oakville Transit Rolls Out 15 New Electric Buses

Oakville Transit is taking a big step toward greener transportation with the launch of 15 new battery-electric buses. These full-sized, 40-foot buses will hit the streets this winter, helping to modernize public transit while reducing emissions.

The new buses, which can travel up to 350 km per charge, were funded through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, with the Town of Oakville covering 30% of the cost. This expansion aligns with Oakville’s long-term goal of electrifying 50% of its fleet by 2026.

Oakville Transit Director Adrian Kawun highlighted the town’s growing ridership, supported by its fare-free policy for children, youth, and seniors. Mayor Rob Burton expressed optimism about further electrification but noted that future funding will be crucial.

While electric buses reduce emissions and improve sustainability, the town is considering diesel replacements once federal grants run out due to cost concerns. For now, riders can look forward to a quieter, cleaner transit experience on Oakville’s newest electric buses.

🏅 HDSB Hosts Olympic-Style Event for Students with Special Needs

The Halton District School Board (HDSB) is partnering with Special Olympics Ontario to host a three-day Sports Festival for over 260 elementary students with special needs. Taking place Feb. 4-6 at the Mattamy National Cycling Centre in Milton, the event will introduce students and their families to inclusive sports in a fun, noncompetitive environment.

“We are very proud and excited to host this event,” said Colette Ruddock, HDSB’s Superintendent of Special Education Services. “It’s an opportunity to showcase our students’ skills and bring them together for accomplishment, camaraderie, and fun.”

Designed for students with intellectual or physical disabilities, the festival aims to foster confidence, social connection, and a love of physical activity. HDSB emphasizes the importance of inclusive opportunities, ensuring all students feel engaged and supported.

The community is looking forward to cheering on these young athletes as they take part in this inspiring event!

Weather

Monday, February 3
🌨️ Chance of Flurries
High: 3°C | Low: -7°C

Tuesday, February 4
☀️ Sunny
High: -3°C | Low: -10°C

Wednesday, February 5
☁️ Cloudy
High: -2°C | Low: -3°C

Events

Featured Event: Dyanne Dumas Trio Nights - Jazz Performance

Step into a New York-style jazz club right here in Oakville on February 5th from 7:00 - 9:00PM! Figaro Coffee Shop transforms into an intimate venue with cozy café seating, mood lighting, and unforgettable live music.

Featuring:
Renowned female vocalist Dyanne Dumas, joined by a stellar trio on piano, upright bass, and violin, performing jazz standards with a unique twist. Enjoy the perfect blend of live music and light fare in a licensed venue—all in the heart of the community.

 Reservations:

• $20 per person online

• $25 at the door

Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in an evening of great music and ambiance. Reserve your spot today!

P.S. Looking to advertise in the Oakville Digest? Reply to this email or reach out at [email protected]

• Creating Harmony 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM | February 3 (more info)

  • Location: The Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts, 130 Navy St, Oakville

  • Description: Celebrate unity and culture with the Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton at Creating Harmony. The evening begins with a reception at 6:00 PM, followed by an inspiring program featuring keynote speaker Dr. Natasha Henry-Dixon, gospel choir Kevin Adams & Voices of Praise, singer Natasha Waterman, and a special collaboration with the CCAH Steel Band and Parang Ensemble.

• Mixology Workshop 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM | February 4 (more info)

  • Location: Canvas Art Bar, 80 Lakeshore Road East, Mississauga

  • Description: Shake, stir, and sip your way through this hands-on mixology workshop! Led by a skilled mixologist, you'll explore the history of cocktails, bartending fundamentals, and bar etiquette. Then, step behind the bar to craft a classic cocktail with a unique twist. Whether you're a beginner or a cocktail enthusiast, you'll leave with new skills—and two delicious drinks or mocktails to enjoy.

• Conserving Oakville’s Rural Settler Heritage 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM | February 4 (more info)

  • Location: Trafalgar Township Historical Society, 2431 Dundas St West, Oakville

  • Description: Discover how North Oakville preserves its historic buildings in this engaging seminar hosted by the Trafalgar Township Historical Society. Carolyn Van Sligtenhorst, Supervisor of Heritage Conservation for the Town of Oakville, will share insights on heritage property designations, preservation efforts, and key sites like the Dr. A. Johnstone House.

• Mingle with Singles 40s, 50s, and 60s 6:45 PM - 8:45 PM | February 4 (more info)

  • Location: Pepperwood Bistro Brewery & Catering, 1455 Lakeshore Road, Burlington

  • Description: Meet and mingle with other singles in a fun, relaxed atmosphere! Enjoy appetizers (included in your ticket) while socializing and making new connections. The evening will kick off with an icebreaker game to help break the ice and spark conversations. Hosted by Crazy 4 Events, this night is all about positive vibes and great company. Dress to impress and be ready for a memorable evening!

• Business Networking Meet-Up 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM | February 5 (more info)

  • Location: Caffe Prego, 3115 Dundas St W, Mississauga

  • Description: Expand your professional network at this semi-structured business networking event hosted by TEN - The Entrepreneurs' Network. Connect with entrepreneurs, potential clients, and referral partners while introducing yourself and your business. Bring your 30-second elevator pitch and business cards. Registration is $5, and free onsite parking is available.

• Oakville Chamber of Commerce Open House 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM | February 5 (more info)

  • Location: Oakville Chamber of Commerce, 295 Robinson St, Suite 201, Oakville

  • Description: Considering Chamber membership? Join the Oakville Chamber of Commerce Open House to explore networking opportunities, advocacy initiatives, and member benefits. Meet the team, ask questions, and discover how the Chamber can support your business goals. Two sessions are available: 11 AM - 12 PM and 12 PM - 1 PM.

• LeadTribes Oakville 12:15 PM | February 5 (more info)

  • Location: Milestones Restaurant, 3051 Vega Blvd, Mississauga

  • Description: Connect with like-minded entrepreneurs at LeadTribes Oakville, a supportive network dedicated to fostering professional growth and leadership. Join this engaging session to build valuable relationships, exchange ideas, and develop your potential in a collaborative environment. Guests are welcome! Pre-registration is encouraged.

• Paint a Tote with Marian - Multiple Times| February 3-5 (more info)

  • Location: Artventures Rebecca, 3495 Rebecca St, Unit 208, Oakville

  • Description: Unleash your creativity in this guided tote painting workshop with Marian! Learn step-by-step techniques to transform a cotton tote into a unique, hand-painted masterpiece. This class covers color theory, brush techniques, and sealing methods to ensure a lasting design. No experience is needed—just bring your imagination!

• Build Charcuterie Boards - Multiple Times | February 3-5 (more info)

  • Location: Artventures Rebecca, 3495 Rebecca St, Unit 208, Oakville

  • Description: Create a one-of-a-kind charcuterie board together in this couples’ pottery wheel workshop! Perfect for beginners and intermediate students, this hands-on experience allows partners to shape and mold clay into personalized serving boards or other unique pieces.

• Pottery Wheel Throwing - Multiple Times | February 3-5 (more info)

  • Location: Artventures Rebecca, 3495 Rebecca St, Unit 208, Oakville

  • Description: Try your hand at pottery with this introductory wheel-throwing workshop! No experience is needed—each participant will have up to 30 minutes on the wheel, plus time for hand-building to add handles, lids, or other accents. Create your own cup, vase, or bowl under the guidance of instructor Marian.

Thank You!

Thank you for reading The Oakville Digest! We hope you found this edition helpful and insightful. We’d love to hear your feedback or any event suggestions you’d like us to feature in future issues. Don’t forget to share with friends and family, and we’ll see you Wednesday!

P.S. Interested in sponsoring our newsletter? Email us at [email protected].