Good morning! This is The Oakville Digest, your trusted guide to everything happening in the beautiful town of Oakville, Ontario. I’m happy to say that it’s finally getting warmer outside - I hope everyone is enjoying the (slightly) warmer weather! ☀️☀️

Here is what to expect in today’s issue:

• 🇨🇦 Canada strikes back on U.S. Tariffs

• 🎓 Exciting job opportunities for new grads

• 📅 Some things to do this week!

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

Let’s dive in!

News

🇨🇦 Canada Strikes Back: Retaliation & Investment in Response to U.S. Tariffs

With U.S. President Donald Trump imposing 25% tariffs on Canadian goods, Ontario and the federal government are taking bold steps to fight back. Premier Doug Ford announced a ban on U.S. companies from bidding on Ontario's $30 billion in procurement contracts, the cancellation of a $100-million Starlink deal, and a halt on American alcohol sales across the province. He also plans a 25% surcharge on electricity exports to the U.S. and threatened further action, including restricting critical mineral exports.

Meanwhile, the federal government is ramping up investments in southern Ontario’s agri-food sector to boost domestic production and innovation. In an Oakville announcement, ministers Ruby Sahota and Anita Anand revealed a $12 million investment, including $9.3 million for six agri-food companies and $2.7 million for food tech entrepreneurs. The goal is to strengthen Canada’s food industry and ensure a resilient, self-sustaining supply chain.

🚗 Free Rush Hour Driving on 407 ETR for Some Ontarians!

Select drivers in Ontario can now enjoy free travel on Highway 407 ETR during rush hour this March! As part of a promotional offer, eligible customers can drive toll-free Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. between March 1 and 31.

This promotion, called “Spring Into Free Rush Hour,” covers your entire trip excluding transponder lease fees. Unfortunately, it’s too late to opt in at this point. This offer was sent by email to eligible 407 ETR My Account users who opted into marketing emails. If you missed out, be sure to create an account and update your preferences to qualify for future promotions!

⛈️ Heavy Rain & Flood Watch in Halton

At least it isn’t more snow! Environment Canada is calling for 15-25 mm of rain in Oakville and Halton Region which would have started last night and kept going until this morning, with thunderstorms possibly adding more. Due to frozen ground blocking absorption, expect water pooling on roads and a risk of localized flooding.

Conservation Halton is also sounding the alarm—melting snow and runoff will push water levels higher, increasing the chance of ice jams. While widespread flooding isn’t expected, low-lying and poor drainage areas could see rising water. Stay clear of rivers, streams, and bridges, as conditions could be dangerous.

The advisory remains in effect until Friday, March 7. Stay dry and stay safe, Oakville!

Community Spotlight

🏗️ Young Innovators Shine at Halton Skills Competition

More than 1,100 Halton students put their problem-solving skills to the test at the 33rd annual Halton Skills Competition in Burlington. Over two days, grade 4-8 students tackled robotics, animation, construction, and more at the Gary Allan Learning Centre.

“This is a lot of communicating, problem-solving in the moment, and figuring out how to solve the challenge at hand,” said organizer Sarah Patterson.

From coding LEGO robots to building hydraulic forklifts, students faced real-world challenges. Top competitors will advance to the Ontario Skills Competition on May 5. Winners will be announced after March Break!

🎓 Job Opportunities for Ontario Grads!

With graduation around the corner, now’s the time for students and recent grads to explore exciting career opportunities across Ontario. This article by Insauga showcases openings that include policy research, GIS, Data Analysis, and HR, offering hands-on experience to build skills and grow professionally.

While not all roles are specific to Oakville, I wanted to share this list as many of the positions are still relevant. Get working on those resumes and cover letters, and don’t miss out on these opportunities!

Weather

Wednesday, March 5
🌧️ Rain, heavy at times, with a risk of thunderstorms in the afternoon and evening.
High: 9°C | Low: 0°C.

Thursday, March 6
🌨️ A couple of morning snow showers; otherwise, a thick cloud cover, windy, and colder.
High: 3°C | Low: -3°C. ​

Friday, March 7
⛅ Some sun, then turning cloudy; breezy in the afternoon.
High: 5°C | Low: -4°C.

Events

• International Women’s Day Dinner Party 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM | March 5 (more info)

  • Location: Oakville Conference Centre, 2515 Wyecroft Road, Oakville

  • Description: Celebrate International Women’s Day at the 22nd annual Dinner Party, featuring dinner, cocktails, a 50/50 draw, and a silent auction. The evening’s keynote speaker, Nicole Rakowski, will highlight the importance of taking action toward gender equality. Join Women of Halton Action Movement (WHAM) for an inspiring night of conversation and celebration.

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

  • Location: Oakville Chamber of Commerce, 295 Robinson Street, Oakville, ON

  • Description: Thinking about joining the Oakville Chamber? This Open House is the perfect chance to meet the team, learn about membership benefits, and explore how the Chamber can support your business goals. Choose from two sessions (11 AM or 12 PM) and connect with fellow professionals.

• Dyanne Dumas Trio - Jazz Performance 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM | March 5 (more info)

  • Location: Figaro Coffee House, 350 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville, ON

  • Description: Immerse yourself in a soulful evening of jazz as the Dyanne Dumas Trio brings timeless classics to life with a fresh twist. With Dyanne’s captivating vocals, Danny Mc Erlain’s smooth piano, Ron Johnston’s deep double bass, and Crystal Lee’s enchanting violin, this intimate performance promises a night of rich melodies and unforgettable ambiance.

• Community Meditation Circle w/ Kale 7:15 PM - 8:30 PM | March 5 (more info)

  • Location: Justin Ellis PT, 5109 Harvester Road #14A, Burlington, ON

  • Description: Join facilitator Kale Black for a guided meditation session using singing bowls, drumming, and other soothing sounds to help quiet the mind. Open to all experience levels, this peaceful gathering is a chance to relax and connect with yourself.

• Spring Nest Flower Workshop 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM | March 6 (more info)

  • Location: The Floral Collective Inc., 335 Kerr Street, Oakville, ON

  • Description: Celebrate the season of renewal with a hands-on floral workshop! Learn to craft a beautiful spring nest using fresh flowers and greenery, guided by expert instructors. A perfect way to welcome spring and add a touch of nature to your home.

• Finger Eleven Performance 8:00 PM | March 6 (more info)

  • Location: AEG Liebherr Auditorium, 130 Navy Street, Oakville

  • Description: One of Canada’s best-selling rock bands, Finger Eleven, takes the stage for a night of high-energy alternative rock. With hits like Paralyzer and Together Right, their chart-topping success and electrifying performances have made them legends in the Canadian music scene. Don’t miss this chance to see them live!

• Sensory Art Class 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM | March 8 (more info)

  • Location: Porch Gallery, 1086 Burhamthorpe Rd E, Oakville

  • Description: Discover the power of mindfulness and creativity in this engaging workshop led by artist Lisaura Lobo. Through guided sensory exercises, you'll explore new ways to express yourself and create meaningful art. No experience is needed, and all materials are provided—just bring your curiosity!

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 Friday!

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