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Ontario Auto Insurance Just Changed: What Every Driver Needs to Know Before July 1

  If you drive in Ontario, this affects you — starting July 1, 2026 , the biggest shake-up to Ontario's auto insurance system in decades is here. Nine benefits that were automatically included in every policy for years are now optional extras you have to pay for separately — or go without. The Ford government is calling it consumer choice. Critics are calling it a coverage cliff. Either way, Ontario drivers need to understand what just changed before their next policy renewal — because the default "basic" plan is now much leaner than what you're used to. From Standard Package to À La Carte Ontario's auto insurance has always included a bundle of Statutory Accident Benefits (SABs) — no-fault coverage that kicks in when you're hurt in a collision, regardless of who caused it. Think income replacement, caregiver support, funeral costs. They were simply part of the deal. That changes now. Starting July 1, 2026, only three categories of benefits remain mandatory in...

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Slow-Cooker Guinness Beef Stew

Make this traditional Irish stew in your slow cooker! Cooking low and slow creates very tender beef and a robust flavor. The best part is that it's ready to eat after you get home from a long day.

Ingredients

  • 1-1/2 pounds potatoes (about 3 medium), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 medium carrots, thinly sliced
  • 2 medium onions, chopped
  • 2 medium parsnips, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 celery ribs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 boneless beef chuck roast (3 pounds), cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1-3/4 teaspoons salt
  • 3/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bottle (12 ounces) Guinness stout or beef broth
  • 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) beef broth
  • 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Minced fresh parsley
Directions

1. Place the first 5 ingredients in a 5- or 6-qt. slow cooker.

2. Toss beef with flour, salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Brown beef in batches. Transfer beef to slow cooker with a slotted spoon. Reduce heat to medium. To same skillet, add tomato paste and garlic. Cook and stir 1 minute.

3. Add beer to skillet, stirring to loosen browned bits from pan. Transfer to slow cooker. Stir in broth and thyme.

4. Cook, covered, on low until beef and vegetables are tender, 7-8 hours. Garnish with parsley.


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