George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

A Pencil, a Porch, and a Bit of Truth on June 29/2025

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Well, it’s a sunny start to the day here in Port Loring. It feels fresh out there this morning, sittin’ right around 58 F, which is about 15 C if you’re keeping track that way.

As the day moves forward, it’s looking to stay nice, a bit of sun, maybe a few clouds drifting by, but overall just a good, solid day. High should climb up to about 80 F, or 27 C. Good day to get things done outside or maybe just sit a spell in the shade if you’ve already done enough.

Come tonight, it won’t cool off too much. Expect it to dip down to around 62 F, or 17 C. Should be a quiet evening, maybe a few bugs depending on where you’re standing, but otherwise pretty mild.

Now tomorrow, that’s when things start to shift. It’s gonna cloud up some, and they’re saying we might get a couple showers, maybe even a thunderstorm in the mix. Air’s gonna feel heavier too, real warm and sticky. High’s supposed to hit around 86 F, or 30 C, with the low tomorrow night sittin’ close to 65 F, or 18 C.

Might be one of those days, where you get your outside work done early and then just keep an eye on the sky.

Highway 522: Well, traffic wise, it has picked up a lot. Campers, trailers, you name it, they’re all moving into our area. But it is the long weekend, the kids are out of school, and the city folks are wantin’ to leave that city life behind for a bit.

And I can’t say I blame them, neither. Up here, the air is fresh, the fish are waitin’ to eat some worms and keep the fishermen/women on their toes, and the blackflies are gone for another year.

They call it The Call of the Wild, and there ain’t no stronger force than nature, let me tell ya.

Bug Report:

All is quiet on the bug front… for now. But if this heat keeps creeping in like it might, you can bet those pesky deer flies and mosquitoes will be back out and about.

You see, they have been lying low, holding little bug meetings somewhere out in the bush, just waiting for the right time to come out and start irritating folks. And they always seem to seek out that nice warm city blood first. It’s a real treat to them.

Now, some folks think they are safe with bug spray, but I will tell you, most of that stuff today is not good for your health and truth told, it just works like a dinner bell letting the bugs know exactly where you are.

Instead of piling on bug spray, try not to put on any perfume or strongly scented soap. Wash your clothes in unscented soap, too. I use Dove or Ivory unscented, and it helps a lot.

So if you are heading outside, don’t forget your hat. It is your first line of defense. After that, you might be better off learning to swat fast and doing a little two-step than relying on a can of chemical hope.

On another note, yesterday despite the rain and the not-so-great weather in the morning, I ended up cleaning my woodworking shop. And in the afternoon, I wrote up another story for the newspapers I write for. All in all, it was a good day.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, with a day this nice, I’m planning to get outside and work in our vegetable gardens. I already spotted a few weeds trying to sneak in and get a foothold, and I’m not about to let them get the upper hand.

Speaking of the garden, I have to say, with all this wet weather we’ve had, things like tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, squash, and a few others have really taken off. They’ve grown so much in just a few days that they’re starting to crowd each other like old neighbors at a family reunion.

That’s good in one way, but in other ways it’s not so great. Looks like I’ll have to do some thinning out soon, give everything a bit more breathing room before they start stepping on each other’s toes.

So with that bit of info out there for you to read, I am off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me. After that, I will head on out to our front porch, with a cup of green tea for a change, since it’s such a really nice day.

My wife and I sure do enjoy sitting outside just taking in our beautiful piece of property. It is one of those small things about living in the country that makes all the hard work worthwhile.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

My Opinion Only, Weather, What's Happening

Still Figuring Things Out, One Day at a Time

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Good Morning, From the country where the wind knows my name and the Cell Signal doesn’t.

It’s a cloudy morning up here in the North, the kind where the sky forgets to wake up with the rest of us.

Today’s Forecast:
Cool and overcast, with temperatures holding near 55°F (13°C). Might be a flicker of sun later on, but I wouldn’t count on it.

Tonight:
A cool night, nice for sleeping.

Tomorrow:
Warming up, with highs near 80F. A nice day is in the forecast.

Highway 522 is quiet this morning, but it is Sunday, and most folks around here usually take things easy. I can’t say I blame them either, not after working all week.

Bug Report: Well, being that it rained all day yesterday and stayed cool, there weren’t hardly any to be seen or felt. And looking at today’s weather, it looks like more of the same.

On another note, we didn’t do much yesterday since it rained heavy pretty much all day. I gotta tell ya, she poured so hard our eave troughs overflowed, they just couldn’t carry it away fast enough. One good thing is, all our rain barrels are full to the brim.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today, being that my old body needs a rest, I’m planning to spend some time in my old woodworking shop. It needs a bit of a cleaning after all the work I’ve been doing in there the past few days. One thing I can do well is make a mess, but that’s just part of getting things done, especially up here in the North.

So with that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my little woman is making for me. After that, I’ll take a second look at what I want to do today. Sometimes I plan on doing one thing and end up doing something completely different.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

More Than Meets the Eye

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Only On The Walters Post

Now, I’m not here to tell folks what to think, I’m just sharing what life has shown me. Take from it what makes sense, leave the rest, but maybe let it sit with you a while.

So here we are again, Canada caught up in another squabble with our southern neighbours. This time it’s over that new tax on Big Tech. Folks in Ottawa say it’s only fair, as after all, companies like Google and Facebook haul in piles of money from Canadians, but pay next to nothing back. Makes sense on paper.

But you’ve got to wonder if there’s something else brewing under the surface. Seems to me our Prime Minister, Mr. Carney, might be playing more than just a tax game. Could be he’s trying to look tough for folks here at home, so we all feel he’s finally standing his ground, instead of just nodding along with whatever Washington wants.

Or maybe, just maybe, he’s got his eye on a bigger prize. You see, if trade with the U.S. gets rocky, that opens the door to push harder into deals with the UK, India, France, and even China along with others of course. It’s risky business, sure, but it might just be the kind of gamble he’s willing to take. Then, when Canadians complain about new tariffs on lumber or steel, or what ever, he can stand there and say, well, we’re working on fresh markets, we’re not just tied to one big customer anymore.

I can’t say for sure if that’s smart or just political posturing. But one thing is for sure, I’ve lived long enough to know sometimes it’s both at once. And I also know, that whenever politicians start talking tough, it’s worth paying attention to what they’re NOT saying. Could be we’re all about to pay a bit more at the grocery store, so Carney can polish up his backbone.

At any rate, maybe instead of chasing deals halfway around the world, we ought to be putting more energy into making things here at home. Building up our own industries, supporting local businesses, and growing stronger from the ground up. That in my mind is where real strength lies, not just in playing the global game.

Food for thought, anyway.

Until the next time, keep your minds open and your stories alive. GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only, Old Days, Old Ways

When Citizenship Should Mean Something

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Only On The Walters Post

Now, I’m not here to tell folks what to think, I’m just sharing what life has shown me. Take from it what makes sense, leave the rest, but maybe let it sit with you a while.

You know, I’ve been thinking a lot lately, about what it really means to be a citizen. A real one. Someone born here, raised here, who worked the land, paid their taxes, raised kids, and helped build this country into what it is.

Now I’m hearing more and more about this thing they call birthright citizenship. Down in the United States, Donald Trump is pushing to change it. He wants to say that unless at least one parent is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, the baby should not get automatic citizenship just for being born there. Some folks are upset about it, but to me, it raises a fair question.

Because here in Canada, we give out citizenship the moment a baby is born on Canadian soil, no matter who the parents are, where they came from, or if they even plan on staying. And I’ll be honest, that does not sit right with me.

I do not say that to be mean. I have nothing against honest people trying to build a better life. But when folks fly in just to have a baby, grab that citizenship paper, then fly out again like they were collecting stamps, it feels wrong. It feels like we are being taken for a ride. And folks like me, who have lived here all our lives, who have actually earned the right to call ourselves Canadian, we are the ones footing the bill for it.

Citizenship should mean more than just where you were born. It should mean you are part of this place. That you want to live here, give back, and build something with the rest of us. If someone is willing to do that, then welcome. But if they are just passing through, looking for a legal loophole, well, that is not citizenship. That is taking advantage.

And here again, I am not against immigration, hell my own family years ago came from somewhere else, like most Canadians. But they came to stay, not to take what they could get and move on. There is a difference.

I kinda think, It is time we start talking honestly about what it means to be Canadian. Not in the political sense, but in the real, everyday way. Where… being born here, or becoming a citizen the right way, actually means something again.

Until the next time, keep your minds open and your stories alive. GW

George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

Lines Written Between Chores on June 27/2025

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Good Morning, From a Porch with a View of Everything That Matters and Nothing That Doesn’t.

She’s a cloudy morning closing in on the long weekend here in Port Loring. We haven’t had any rain yet, but… it’s still early and the air’s got that heavy feel to it—like something’s waiting to let loose.

Today:
Right now it’s sitting at about 63°F, and we’re on track for a wet one. They’re calling for rain through the day, with a few good cracks of thunder mixed in. If it does come, we could be looking at an inch, maybe closer to two in spots before it’s all said and done. Things should climb to around 74°F before settling back to 58°F by nightfall.

Tonight:
Showers hanging around, maybe another rumble or two after dark. Still damp, still gray, and cooling into the high 50s°F.

Saturday:
There’s a chance of a few leftover spits in the morning, but most of it should be out of here. The sky’ll likely stay thick and low, though. Cooler too, with the high topping out near 67°F, and dropping to 53°F once the sun ducks out.

Sunday’s the bright spot. Some sun, a few clouds, and warming up nicely to about 81°F. Should be a fine day to dry out or get something done outdoors.

So far, it’s just the quiet before the rain—but if those clouds are telling the truth, we’ll be listening to it hit the roof before long.

Highway 522’s been a little livelier the past couple days. Trucks hauling campers, cars with boats tied down in ways that make you hope they’re not going far, and folks doing that familiar summer shuffle—out of the city and into the bush. You can tell it’s the lead-up to a long weekend when the gas stations jack up prices—because nothing says ‘welcome to summer’ like paying more just to fill your tank.

Bug Report: Well, the black flies have left us for another year—they actually packed their suitcases about a week ago. But with all the dampness and hot weather we’ve been having, those bloodsucking parasites, the mosquitoes, are out in full force. It’s hard to get away from them, and if you leave your door open for any length of time, they’ll be in within seconds.

And if they aren’t bad enough, when the sun does come out and the mosquitoes ease off a bit, those damn deer flies take over. Once they find you, they won’t leave you alone—they follow you everywhere and, given the chance, they can sure bite. That’s when my old hat comes in handy, sending them off to meet their maker.

On another note, my wife and I have been keeping busy with a steady stream of customers and friends stopping by our garage sale and gift shop. I have to say, it’s been great seeing so many people picking up things, and who could blame them? As every piece in our shop is designed and crafted right here in our woodworking shop—unique, one-of-a-kind items you won’t find anywhere else.

And here’s the kicker: we’re clearing it all out at half price. So if you want something special—something made with care and a little bit of heart—now’s the time to stop in. Once these pieces are sold, the gift shop will close for good. It’s time for us to turn the page and focus on other projects and plans in our life.

On top of that, we have my books on sale—seven of them, each packed with more than fifty short stories. If you’re into tales that capture the land, the people, and the small moments that make life rich, these books might just be your next favorite read.

We’re open every day for the summer from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at 11588 Highway 522, Port Loring, Ontario. So come on by, say hello, browse the shop, and maybe take home a story or two—whether painted on wood or canvas by my wife, or printed on paper in my books, which she beautifully illustrated with a drawing for each story and painted every cover. Her art truly brings the stories to life.

So, what are you up to today, GW?

Well, with all this wet weather outside, I’ll be working on my lawnmower. It’s only two years old, but it’s been giving me trouble the past few days. I have to say, they sure don’t make things like they used to. I have an old rototiller that’s over forty years old, and it’s still going strong, needing only a flat tire fixed and a couple of new drive belts over the years.

We live in a throwaway world these days, where fixing things is almost a lost art. Truth is, it’s usually cheaper to just buy new—even when a lot of that new stuff is made so poorly it’s barely worth the money. But what do you expect when most of what we use here in Canada is made overseas by folks who don’t care much about quality?

So with that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife is making for me—thick slices of grass-fed pea meal bacon, sizzling just right, topped with an easy-over egg with that golden, runny yolk spilling onto a toasted English muffin. All finished off with a generous melt of aged cheese that’s just the right balance of sharp and creamy. How about that for a breakfast to start the day?

Once I’ve enjoyed every bite, a warm cup of hot cocoa will be waiting for me. It’s a bit cool this morning, perfect weather to sit back, sip slowly, and take my time before stepping outside.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Taxing Common Sense: Why We Pay More for What’s Worse Here in Canada

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I’m not here to tell folks what to think — just sharing what life has shown me. Take from it what makes sense, leave the rest, but maybe let it sit with you a while.”

So here’s the thing, folks. In Ontario, if you go out and buy a fresh steak, some raw chicken, maybe a pork roast to cook at home, there is no tax on it. Not a penny. But if you toss a pack of bacon or a few slices of deli ham in the cart, suddenly you are hit with thirteen percent tax.

And you would think that would be the other way around, wouldn’t you?

Turns out, we are paying more for the stuff that is worse for us, and less for the stuff that is actually real food. Now that might sound a bit backwards, but if you look a little closer, it starts to make perfect sense. Just not in the way most folks might expect.

You see, the government knows exactly what people are buying. They know folks are busy, tired, and looking for something quick. Processed meats, packaged food, ready-to-eat meals, well those are the things that fill the carts. And that is what gets taxed. Not because it is unhealthy, but because it sells.

They will tell you fresh meat is zero-rated because it is a basic grocery item. Sure, that is the reason written on paper. But do not mistake that for looking out for your health. They are not doing you a favour. They are just collecting more$ off what is already flying off the shelves. It is not about steering you toward better choices. It is about taking a cut from the ones you are already making.

And the crazy part? Most folks do not even notice. They just keep paying and moving on, figuring that is how it has always been. But take a second, next time you are at the store. Look at what is taxed and what is not. Real food, the kind you cook from scratch, gets left alone. The quick stuff, the salty stuff, the plastic-wrapped meat packed with preservatives, that is the stuff they are charging you extra for.

So what does that tell you?

It tells me someone is watching what we buy, and they are making money off it. Plain and simple.

Now, I am not saying folks should not buy what they want. That is their choice. But do not think for a second that the government is helping you make better ones. They are just following the money and getting their share along the way.

“Until the next time, keep your mind open and your stories alive.” GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

We Could Beat the Two Per Cent. So Why Don’t We?

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Only On The Walters Post

I’m not here to tell folks what to think — just sharing what life has shown me. Take from it what makes sense, leave the rest, but maybe let it sit with you a while.”

Let me ask you something. If Canada is one of the richest countries in the world, with all the brains, tools, and resources we could ever need, then why are we falling behind when it comes to defending ourselves?

The answer isn’t that we don’t care. The truth is simpler and harder to hear. Yes, we are sort of broke, deeply in debt and stretched thin. But it’s not because we ran out of money. It’s because the people in charge have been wasting what we have, dragging their feet, and putting off the tough decisions for years. They don’t want to admit it, but I will.

Right now, Canada spends about one point four per cent of our GDP on defence. That is far below the NATO goal of two per cent. Meanwhile, countries like Poland, which are nowhere near as wealthy as we are, are spending over four per cent because they know the world is not safe anymore. Germany, France, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom have all met or committed to meeting the two per cent mark. They stepped up. We did not.

But we could. In fact, we could do better than two per cent, that is if we stopped wasting money on things that do not help Canadians, we could be stronger, safer, and more respected. So here is where the money really goes at least from what I found out, and what needs to change.

1. Too Many Government Layers

We have too many departments, too many offices doing the same thing, and too many people pushing paper instead of doing something useful. The government spends over fifty-five billion dollars a year just to run itself. A lot of that is wasted on overlap, slow processes, and things we do not even need anymore.

2. Foreign Aid with No Follow-Up

We send out around seven billion dollars a year in foreign aid. Some of it is good and helps people who truly need it. But a big chunk of it goes to countries with poor records or no accountability. The thing is… Canadians have every right to ask why we are giving away billions, when our own military is underfunded and stretched thin.

3. Reports and Consultants

Instead of fixing problems, governments spend millions studying them. They hire consultants to write long reports and recommendations, then shelve them. That money could go toward real equipment, training, and infrastructure.

4. Travel and Perks for Politicians

While the average Canadian struggles to afford groceries, those in power fly business class, stay in luxury hotels, and collect travel pay. The cost of government travel and perks can run into the hundreds of millions every year.

5. Handouts to Big Corporations

Big companies making billions still get handouts from the government. Oil, auto, and green energy firms, media outlets, and others have all gotten taxpayer support. This adds up to between fifteen and twenty billion dollars a year. That is money going to rich CEOs while our soldiers go without basic gear.

6. Bad Purchasing Decisions

When Canada does try to spend on defence, we often mess it up. Projects take years longer than they should, and cost way more than they were supposed to. We delayed buying new fighter jets for over a decade. We pay more than we should, and get less than we need.

7. Public Sector Wages and Pensions

There are over four hundred thousand federal workers, many earning more than their private sector counterparts, with guaranteed pensions that most people in the real world do not get. Salaries and pensions cost over sixty billion a year. Now here’s the thing, I am not saying slash and burn, but we do need to trim and refocus.

What We Could Do Instead

If we took just a third of that wasted money and put it to good use, we could not only meet the NATO target of two per cent, we could go beyond it. We could build a modern, well-equipped military. We could protect the Arctic, strengthen our cyber defences, and show the world that Canada is not just a quiet observer.

We could also use some of that money to bring back real manufacturing here at home, secure our energy supply, and invest in real education and science instead of flashy slogans and pet projects.

Final Word

This is not about war, it’s about being ready, being smart, and being respected. It is about making sure our soldiers have what they need, and that our country can take care of itself in a dangerous world.

The truth is, we can afford it. What we cannot afford is more delay, more waste, and more excuses.

So the next time someone says we cannot afford to step up, ask them where all the money is going now, and why none of it ever seems to make a difference where it matters most.

“That’s how I see it, plain and simple” or “Just my opinion, take it or leave it”? GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only, Old Days, Old Ways

What Ever Happened to a Fair Day’s Work and a Straight Deal?

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I’m not here to tell folks what to think — just sharing what life has shown me. Take from it what makes sense, leave the rest, but maybe let it sit with you a while.”


You know, I’ve been around long enough to remember a time when a man could start a business, work hard, hire a few good people, and not have to worry about someone stepping in to tell him how to run his own shop. Back then, if you wanted a job, you showed up, proved yourself, and earned your keep. Simple as that. If the boss treated you right, you stuck around. If he didn’t, you found work somewhere else. It wasn’t perfect, but it worked.

Now here’s where I stand — and I know some won’t agree, but that’s fine. If I built a company from the ground up, took the risks, paid the wages, and kept the doors open, I believe I should have the right to say how it’s run. That includes saying right from the start: no unions here. If someone wants the job, they should understand that upfront. If it suits them, great. If not, no hard feelings, they move on.

You see, that’s the way things used to be. A man worked hard, kept his word, and if he did right by the boss, the boss usually did right by him. You didn’t need outside help to ask for a raise. Most times, it came because you earned it, not because someone bargained for it.

Today, though, the rules have changed, and the employers no longer have that same freedom. They’re told how much to pay, who they can hire, and when they have to bargain. It’s all tied up in laws, red tape, and outside pressure. That kind of interference takes the heart out of small business. And the sad part is, it’s not even helping like it was meant to. If anything, we’ve made it harder to hire, harder to fire, and harder to get ahead.

In my opinion, it never should have come to this. Businesses did not need this much fixing, because most of them were not broken. Truth told, we have made it so the fellow who puts everything on the line to start something no longer gets to steer the ship, and that is not right. Another thing is, I believe that over time, people’s thinking has been swayed. They have been led to believe that all these new rules and controls are good and necessary, when in reality, many of them are not. Somewhere along the way, we stopped thinking for ourselves and started accepting things that just do not make sense.

So what do we need to do? Well, if it were up to me, and I know it is not, I would say it is time we start thinking for ourselves again. Time to stop letting outside voices tell us what is fair, and start trusting in honest, face-to-face dealings between people who are willing to work and those willing to give them a chance. Hard work should still count for something, and a business owner should still have the right to run things his own way without jumping through hoops. We did it that way for a long time, and in my view, it worked just fine. Maybe it is time we gave it another look.

“That’s how I see it, plain and simple” or “Just my opinion, take it or leave it”? GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Canada and the EU

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“I’m not here to tell folks what to think — just sharing what life has shown me. Take from it what makes sense, leave the rest, but maybe let it sit with you a while.”

Today, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced what’s being called a historic step forward in Canada’s relationship with the European Union (EU). Standing alongside President Costa and Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission who represents the executive leadership (Smile) of the EU, he went on to introduce a new and ambitious partnership: The New EU-Canada Strategic Partnership of the Future. It’s being pitched as a bold move rooted in shared values and a rules-based international system which is aimed at strengthening trade, economic security, digital development, and the fight against climate change.

They’re calling it a new beginning. Negotiations are about to start on all kinds of things, like digital transition, climate action, defence and security partnerships. There’s even talk of Canada taking part in SAFE, (Smile), a European defence readiness plan that promises new industrial and military procurement opportunities.

Sounds promising on paper.

But here’s the thing. In my mind, we’re heading in the wrong direction.

I think we need to stop relying on other countries and start doing things for ourselves. That means looking after our own industries, bringing businesses back home, making quality products right here in Canada, and growing our own food. It means building up our provinces, not chasing trade deals around the world that often don’t serve the average Canadian.

Why not focus on trading more between provinces? Why not fix our own house before offering to help build someone else’s?

This habit of rushing off to make deals with other countries every time we hit a rough patch, especially when the U.S., despite its flaws, has been a long-standing ally, doesn’t sit right with me. And some of these new partnerships? (Smile) Well, history shows we’d be wise to keep our distance.

We also need to ease off on immigration and focus more on who we’re bringing in. Canada should be welcoming people who truly want to contribute, build, and be part of making this country stronger. But we’ve also got to be careful, and that means putting systems in place to make sure we’re not letting in those who intend to do harm. And on top of that, if someone comes here and breaks the law, especially serious crimes, they shouldn’t stay. Send them back to where they came from.

It’s not about turning people away for the sake of it, it’s about protecting what we’ve built and making sure newcomers share the same respect for this country that so many of us have worked our whole lives to uphold.

So yes, the announcement sounds impressive. But at the end of the day, we’ve got to ask: who does it really benefit? Because if we’re not looking after our own people, then all the international handshakes in the world won’t mean much.

“Until the next time, keep your minds open and your stories alive.” GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Canada Need to Step Up Military Spending — Trump’s Point Is Valid

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Only On The Walters Post

“I’m not here to tell folks what to think — just sharing what life has shown me. Take from it what makes sense, leave the rest, but maybe let it sit with you a while.”

Here’s the thing. Trump is right when he says Europe and Canada have to meet their military spending targets. Canada, especially, has been falling behind for years. We keep hearing they’re doing their best, but honestly, that doesn’t ring true.

The truth is, instead of putting money where it’s needed, in defense, a lot of it gets lost in government red tape, or goes somewhere it shouldn’t. That’s why our military has been left behind. If Canada had kept up the funding, and looked after our forces properly, we wouldn’t be in this mess now.

Our equipment is old and worn out. While other countries upgrade their jets, and ships, or build or buy new, many of ours are decades old or barely usable. Our soldiers also deserve better gear/equipment and a fair pay raise to go with it.

The thing is, we should have one of the strongest defense systems in the world, and it’s about time we started acting like it matters. Living across the ocean used to give us some protection, but not anymore. The world has changed, and threats don’t care about borders or oceans.

Look at Europe. Some countries talk tough about their military, but most rely heavily on the United States for support. That leaves dangerous gaps only real investment can fix.

We have to do what needs to be done, and we need to do it fast. Sure, some folks will complain, hell that’s just human nature, we can never keep everyone happy. But they have had their way far too long.

Here is another thing. The United States leads the world in military technology and research. Their scientists work day and night, and their equipment, from jets to intelligence tools—is unmatched. Some claim Europe has better jets, but that’s not true from what I have seen or heard. It’s just another way to confuse people.

So how do we find the money? One way is to cut government jobs that don’t directly support our military or defense. It won’t be easy at first, but doing this would more than cover the costs. Take a good look at what I’m saying, and you’ll see the truth.

So yes... Canada and Europe need to stop fooling themselves about defense spending. The future depends on it, our future.

“Until the next time, keep your minds open and your stories alive.” GW

George's Writers Corner, Health, My Opinion Only

A Little Here, A Little There and We’re Full of Poison

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“I’m not here to tell folks what to think — just sharing what life has shown me. Take from it what makes sense, leave the rest, but maybe let it sit with you a while.”

It’s funny, in a way, how folks think the world got this sick all of a sudden. Like disease just showed up one morning and knocked on the door. Truth is, it’s been creeping in for years. Not from one big thing, but from all the little things piling up when no one’s paying attention.

They added fluoride to the water and called it progress. Sprayed chemicals on the food and said not to worry, it’s only a trace. Pumped hormones into the meat, sealed it in plastic, then stacked it on a shelf under bright lights and clever words. We eat it all every day without a second thought. The body takes it in, tries to keep up, tries to clean house, but it can’t keep pace. Not when the toxins keep coming.

Now we’ve got PFAS, the so-called forever chemicals. They don’t leave, they don’t break down, and they’ve worked their way into our blood, our soil, our water, and our homes. And the folks who made them? They knew. The reports were buried. The warnings softened. The damage was already done before most people even heard the name.

It’s not a conspiracy. It’s just business. Quiet, legal, and slow-burning.

The trouble is, it’s never just one thing. It’s the mix of it all, a trace here, a trace there, and before you know it, there’s a full cocktail running through your veins. You don’t feel it right away, it builds, and one day, you wake up feeling off. Something isn’t right. Maybe it’s your energy, maybe it’s your sleep, maybe the doctor finds something and can’t explain why.

And what do they do? They hand you a prescription, one pill to treat the symptom, then another to fix what the first one caused. Before long, you’re on a list of medications, not getting better, just managing side effects. They call them side effects, but truth be told, they’re more like hazards. Dizziness, liver damage, depression, heart trouble — it’s all right there in the fine print, that is, if anyone bothers to read it. And most folks don’t. They just trust, because what else can they do?

The signs are right in front of us, we just don’t want to see them. It’s easier to pretend everything’s fine than to admit our food, water, and air have been slowly poisoned over time. Not by accident, but by design. Not through some shadowy plot, but by decisions made for profit, not health.

And still, somehow, we keep going. Maybe it’s grit. Maybe it’s stubbornness. Maybe we haven’t quite hit the wall yet.

I won’t pretend to have all the answers, but I do know this, we need to pay attention. We need to ask questions. We need to look at what we’re eating, drinking, and breathing, because no one else is watching out for us. Not the government, not the corporations, and for that matter, not even the labels dressed up to look like truth.

The good news is, we’re not powerless. We can start small. Read the labels, grow a bit of food ourselves, filter the water, and more importantly we need to learn what’s in the things we use every day. Because if a little here and a little there got us into this mess, then maybe a little more care, a little more awareness, can help us find our way back out.

“Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive.” GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

A Country Full of Oil, and Still Paying Through the Nose?

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Only On The Walters Post

“I’m not here to tell folks what to think — just sharing what life has shown me. Take from it what makes sense, leave the rest, but maybe let it sit with you a while.”

So here’s the thing.

Every time there’s a skirmish in the Middle East, like the recent U.S. strike on Iran, the headlines jump to say oil prices will rise. And sure enough, they do. Before the dust even settles, gas prices here in Canada start climbing. It’s as if our own supply dried up overnight.

But let’s stop and think about that.

Canada isn’t short on oil. Not even close. We’re one of the top oil-producing countries in the world. Alberta alone is sitting on more reserves than some countries can dream of. We’ve got refineries, pipelines, and an entire industry built around getting that oil out of the ground. So why are we, the ones who live on top of it, paying inflated prices as if we’re importing it from halfway around the globe?

Truth is, it’s not about shortage. It’s about profit. Every time something happens overseas, oil companies see a chance to raise prices. They slap on what they call a “risk premium.” That’s just a fancy way of saying, “We think things might get worse, so we’re going to charge more—just in case.”

And guess who ends up paying for that? You and me. The everyday folks trying to fill our tanks, keep warm in the winter, or get to town.

They’ll tell you oil is traded on the global market, priced in U.S. dollars, and that’s just the way it is. And sure, technically, that part’s true. But that doesn’t explain why we, in a country full of oil, have to pay world prices like we’ve got none of our own.

We should be getting a break. We should be using our own resources to help our own people. But somewhere along the line, that stopped being the goal. Now, no matter how much oil we produce, the prices still climb every time there’s trouble somewhere else in the world.

This isn’t about politics or blame. It’s about plain old common sense.

If we’ve got the oil, and we’ve got the means to process and deliver it, then why aren’t we looking after our own first? Why are we letting big companies rake in billions while the rest of us dig deeper just to keep moving?

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

George's Writers Corner, Old Days, Old Ways, Weather

Weather Like This Ain’t New

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Only On The Walters Post

You know folks, I’ve learned over the years to pay close attention when the same kind of weather hangs around too long. Whether it’s cloud, cold, or heat, if it overstays its welcome, something’s bound to shift, and not always in a good way.

Lately, there’s been talk of a big heat ridge stretching across much of the States, and wouldn’t you know it, that stubborn thing is now starting to press up against us here in the north. Right now, it’s sitting mostly to the south and west of us, but the way it’s behaving, and dragging its feet and not in a hurry to move on, it’s likely we’re going to feel more of it as the days roll on.

Over the next week or so, I’d say we’re in for a steady run of warmer-than-usual weather. Highs could creep up to the low 30s C (that’s mid to high 80s F), especially if the clouds stay away. And with very little rain in the forecast, the sun’s going to have full reign across our gardens and fields. That’s great for the tomatoes and beans, not so great if you’ve got wheat in the fields or tender plants that still need a drink now and then.

You could say, it’s the kind of dry, baked heat that builds up when the skies don’t shift, and when you see the haze hanging just a bit lower on the horizon, that’s a sign the atmosphere’s starting to get squeezed out. By midweek, I wouldn’t be surprised if it feels even hotter than what the forecasts are saying. That sun’s not backing off.

Now, some of these specialists are hoping for a backdoor cold front to sneak in from the northeast in a week or so, but I wouldn’t count on it reaching us. Not with that ridge still holding firm over the southern U.S. Unless we get a helping hand from a storm rolling off the Pacific or something brewing in the tropics, chances are we’ll be sweating things out here through the first part of July.

Looking farther out, around the second week of July, there’s a chance the heat ridge could shift a bit to the southwest. If that happens, we might catch a break. But from the looks of the maps and how things have played out in years gone by, I’d say southern Ontario, especially places like ours tucked into the north, could stay in the warm zone. Nights may cool off some, but the days will keep the fans running.

And one more thing, it pays to watch the skies late in the day. With all this warmth and just enough moisture riding the edge of that ridge, we might get some of those pop-up thunderstorms rolling off the Shield and drifting across the lakes. Not long soakers, but the kind that rattle the windows, water the grass for twenty minutes, then head off as quick as they came.

So… in the days ahead, stay cool, check on the folks who might not handle the heat so well, and take your cues from the birds and trees. When the robins are hiding in the shade, and the maples stop fluttering, you know the air’s standing still.

That said, yes, it’s going to get warm — maybe even hot for a stretch. But let’s not lose our heads over it. We’ve seen this kind of heat before, and we got through it just fine. Back then, no one ran off in a panic or made front-page news out of it. Just another summer day, the way they’ve always come and gone.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. George Walters

George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

Another Fine Morning Here in the North on June 22/2025

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Good Morning Folks. Well, we are starting things off here this morning with some sunshine, which is always a welcome sight. The kind of morning where the birds seem a bit happier, especially the Robbins, and even our vegetable gardens looks a touch more relaxed.

As for the weather, here’s how things are shaping up for Port Loring, Ontario:

Today: Mainly sunny with just a few passing clouds, high will reach near 75F (24C), with a light breeze from the northwest to keep things comfortable.
Tonight: Clear skies early, then a few clouds drifting in overnight. Low around 54F (12C) — might even be a good night for sleeping with the windows open.
Tomorrow: A mix of sun and cloud, warmer than today, with a high reaching 81F (27C). Slight chance of an afternoon sprinkle, but nothing to fret about.

Looks like we’re in for a stretch of decent weather for a change, good enough to get some outside chores done or just sit back and take it all in. I kinda think my wife and I will do both leaning to the front porch sittin’.

Highway 522 is still pretty quiet, tourist-wise. That said, things should start picking up in another week or so when the kids get out of school for the summer. It usually does — but we’ll see how that works out.

Bug Report:

Well, yesterday morning before the rain moved in, I spent some time working in our vegetable garden, and I have to say I didn’t see a single mosquito, black-fly, or deer-fly. Not one. It’s getting to be that time of year when you can stand, sit, or walk just about anywhere without being pestered too much.

On another note, like I mentioned yesterday, I did manage to work up our vegetable garden — cleared out some of those young weeds that were trying to sneak in without being noticed. I also spread some manure made from grass clippings that’s been rotting down for a few weeks, worked it in nice around our tomato and pepper plants. When I was done, you could almost see those plants smiling.

I have to tell you, folks, when that garden’s all worked up, and the plants are just starting to take hold, it sure is a sight to see. I can never get enough of it.

Matter of fact, now that the sun’s come out, my wife and I are planning to sit under our old basswood tree on the swing I built a while back, just to take it all in.

The thing is, summers are short in our neck of the woods, so when times like this come along, you’ve got to take advantage of them. Least ways, that’s how we see it.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today, with the sun back out and the temperature just right, not too hot and not too cool, I’m thinking I’ll putter around the property a bit along with looking after any customers that happen to drop by our garage sale here at 11588 Highway 522. We’re keeping it going until the end of July, along with our small gift shop. Well, the gift shop will remain open for the whole summer. Just the garage sale will end at the end of July.

And I should mention, everything in the gift shop — all the one-of-a-kind items my wife and I designed and made ourselves — is now half price. So if you’re out and about and feel like browsing, you just might find something special to take home with ya. That is if you drop by.

With that, I’m off to enjoy another breakfast whipped up by my little woman. She sure knows how to start the day right. Once that’s done, I’ll head outside to put up the open signs, then settle into my favorite chair on the front porch with a hot cup of cocoa, and take in our beautiful piece of property — one of the best around, if you ask me. Might not be lakefront, but it’s got everything that matters.

Truth is, not every great place needs a shoreline. Some places just feel right — quiet, peaceful, with room to breathe. Ours is one of them.

You’re always welcome to see for yourselves!

“Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive.” GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only, Weather

Hot Enough For Ya?

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Only On The Walters Post

These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

Well, it’s summer. The sun’s doing its job, and the heat’s settling in over Ontario. The news is already full of warnings, like… stay indoors, drink water, check on the elderly, keep pets cool, and so on. You’d think we were walking on the sun the way folks talk. And don’t get me wrong, yes, it’s warm out, and yes, it can be dangerous for some. But here’s the thing.

Back when I was growing up on the farm, we didn’t have air conditioning or special cooling centres. We had shade trees, wide-brimmed hats, and a good sense of when to take a break. Days could hit the high 30s, maybe more, and we were out there working the fields, hauling hay, sweating under the same sun. And if you complained? Maybe you’d hear, “Yep, she’s a warm one today,” and that was about it. No panic. No headlines. Just another summer day.

So what’s changed? The weather? Maybe a bit. But I think what’s really changed is how we look at things, better said, what we focus on. The thing is, we’ve come to expect comfort at every turn. A little heat, and suddenly it’s a crisis, meanwhile, the things that should have us stirred up, things like the cost of living, the state of our healthcare, our farmers struggling to hang on, is barely make a dent in the news cycle.

We’re being steered to worry about the weather, not about where our food’s going to come from if we don’t support the hands that grow it. Not about the folks living out in the country who don’t have access to the care or services city folks take for granted. Not about how disconnected we’ve become from the very land, that once fed our bodies and our spirits.

Now, I’m not saying ignore heat warnings. Be smart, of course. Look out for each other. But maybe, just maybe, instead of wringing our hands about a week of hot weather, we ought to ask ourselves what really matters in this country of ours. And whether we’ve let comfort replace resilience.

Because if we lose that…our grit, our common sense, our ability to weather a little heat, we lose something a lot more important than a few degrees on the thermometer.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Gardening, George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

Old Habits, New Mornings on June 21/2025

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Our Vegetable Garden Looking Good!

Good Morning! Another Day, Another Quiet Start Here in the Pines

So far this morning things are looking not all that bad outside, but in saying that here is the weather forecast for today tonight and tomorrow.

Today (June 21): High of 77 °F (25 °C), low around 67 °F (19 °C). Expect cloudy skies with showers and thunderstorms, especially in the morning when it’ll feel warm and humid, shifting to breezy later with possible heavy downpours and strong winds.

Tonight: Temperatures should hold steady near 67 °F (19 °C) as the storms wind down.

Tomorrow (June 22): It’s forecast to warm up further, reaching 88 °F (31 °C); lows around 68 °F (20 °C). Expect morning clouds to give way to sunshine, though afternoon thunderstorms are possible in certain areas.

So might pay to have a raincoat handy for today.

Highway 522 did pick up a wee bit yesterday traffic-wise, but here again, it’s mostly the locals that are moving around.
You know how it goes in small towns… half the traffic is folks waving at the other half. And if someone’s brake lights come on, it’s probably just them stopping to chat out the window.

Bug Report:
Not too much to report in that department, other than a few mosquitoes irritating folks. The wet, damp weather’s brought them out, and if it turns warm and muggy, well, they’ll be out in full force.

On another note, yesterday morning I spent some time out in the gardens. Had a bit of thinning to do, as things are really coming on strong now. It’s that time of year when everything seems to grow while your back’s turned.

While out there, I noticed our peonies are in full bloom, and let me tell you, they smell just like those old-time heritage roses. That old saying bet you can’t take one sniff is sure true. My wife and I sure enjoy them. The yellow lilies out by our sign are also putting on a good show this year too, and a few more by the fishpond are just starting to strut their stuff. The white lilac is about done for the season, but while it lasted, you could smell it all over the property, sweet and strong, just the way we like it.

The good news, is the grass has started to slow down a bit now, which makes things a little easier for the two of us. Easier on us and the mowers, too.

I have to say, our place is something special. The way we’ve fixed it up over the years, there’s always something new to catch your eye, a bloom here, a bird house there, or just the way the light hits things in the morning. My wife and I love this property more than words can say. It’s peaceful, it’s full of life, and most of all, it’s home. For now anyway.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today, with my shop being a touch messy again, I’m planning on straightening things up in there. And if the rain holds off, I’ve got some weeds to deal with in our vegetable garden. I like to stay on top of them as they are easy to manage now, but if you let ’em get ahead of you, you’re in for a whole lot more work.

But first, I’ll need to sharpen up my old hoe a bit. It’s gotten a bit dull with all the use it’s had so far this year. A sharp hoe makes the job a whole lot easier, let me tell ya.

On top of that, we’ve still got folks dropping by for our garage sale and a few wandering into our little gift shop too, so that will also keep us hopping.

And I’ll tell you… my little woman’s got her hands full today as well. She’s been cleaning the house, making meals, working on some sign orders she’s got to get done, and keeping everything running smooth around here. Truth be told, it’s wash day too, and that alone is a full day’s work. That woman never stops, I don’t know how she does it sometimes.

So, all in all, between the two of us, I’d say the day’s spoken for.

So with that, I’m off for the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me. After that, I think a cup of hot cocoa on the front porch will be in order. Now that those pesky black flies have finally left us for another year, it’s a touch more comfortable out there.

“Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive.” GW

George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

Waking Up: What’s On My Mind on June 20/2025

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Good Morning… the air is quiet, and it feels like a good day to get out to the workshop, or maybe even dig around in the garden a bit.

Well, it’s looking like the rain has finally left us, and the sun is starting to break through the clouds. A welcome sight, I’d say.

Forecast for Port Loring, Ontario

Today (Friday, June 20)

  • Daytime: A mix of sun and cloud, with things warming up nicely to around 72 °F (22 °C).
  • Nighttime Temperatures: Dropping down to a cooler 51 °F (11 °C), which should make for a good sleeping night.

Saturday (June 21)

  • Daytime: Cloudy skies, with a few showers and maybe a thunderstorm early on. Breezy through the afternoon, with highs reaching 78 °F (26 °C).
  • Nighttime Temperatures: Holding warmer at around 65 °F (19 °C), still a bit humid and damp in spots.

Sunday (June 22)

Nighttime Temperatures: Staying warm and sticky near 66 °F (19 °C)—a sign summer’s really settling in.

Daytime: A muggy one on the way. Cloudy early, then maybe a break of sun before a few pop-up storms roll through in the afternoon. Highs climbing to 87 °F (31 °C).

So, by the looks of things, the warmer daytime temperatures are here to stay for a while.

Highway 522 was still pretty quiet yesterday, though the weather wasn’t all that great, which likely kept folks at home. Out here in the country, that suits us just fine as it means more peace and quiet, which is what most folks living here enjoy. Least my wife and I do.

Bug Report:
Well, there weren’t any bugs to speak of yesterday. With the rain, everything with wings seemed to take the day off. But this morning? The mosquitoes are back at it, raising a bit of hell. They will likely settle down once the sun gets a little higher in the sky.

Of course, that is usually when the deer flies punch in for their shift.

Actually, I have been pretty lucky over the years, as for the most part, none of them actually bite me. They just buzz around my face like they are trying to tell me something. Not sure why that is, but my wife says it is because I am not as sweet as most folks. Could be true.

On another note, with it being a rainy day yesterday, I spent most of my time right here at the computer. Got a couple of stories written up in the morning, and by afternoon I started working on setting things up so I can share my stories on my blog, YouTube, and a few other spots.

What I’ll be doing is taking one story each week from my collection and turning it into a podcast. I used to do that a while back, but after a time I drifted away from it, tried making videos instead, and then drifted from that too. So now I’m heading back to podcasting, which means I’ll be reading my stories out loud once again.

Keep an eye out for them on my YouTube channel and right here on the blog.

So, what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today I’m planning to work on my bird feeder. I had to take it down the other day since it needed a bit of repair. I’ve been experimenting with different ways to keep the larger birds out while still letting the smaller ones in to feed. It’s been a bit of a challenge, but I think I’ve finally figured it out.

So I’ll get it fixed up and back on the post outside our living room window. That way, my wife and I can sit and watch the show throughout the day. We sure enjoy seeing all the different kinds of birds that come to visit.

So yep, that’s what I’ve got on the go today.

With that I’m off for my morning breakfast once again that my lovely wife has put together for me, and then I’ll see what the day has in store other than what I have planned. Every day is a mystery waiting to be made into something.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

What Time Has Taught Me (So Far) on June 19/2025

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Good Morning, Folks. Out here in the country, the coffee tastes stronger, the sky looks w i d e r, and even the silence has something to say.

Well, looking out the old window here by my desk, it looks like we’re in for a rainy day.

Today – Thursday, June 19: Rain’s falling steady this morning, and might keep at it for most of the day. We’ll see a high around 64 °F (18 °C) and dropping to about 49 °F (10 °C) tonight. There’s a rainfall warning on—calling for 40 to 60 mm of rain, which works out to roughly 1.5 to 2.5 inches. We could also hear the odd rumble of thunder in the mix too.

Tonight: Cooler and still damp. The heavier rain should ease into lighter showers by evening, with temps settling near 49 °F (10 °C). Nice for sleeping.

Tomorrow – Friday, June 20: Cloudy for the most part but milder, with the high creeping up to around 73 °F (23 °C) and an overnight low of about 56 °F (13 °C). Might not be bone-dry, but not near as wet as today.

I would say that today would be a good day to stay in, tend to the small stuff, and let the land have its drink. As it sure needs it, especially our vegetable garden.

Bug Report: Other than a few mosquitoes and the odd deer fly irritating folks, things are pretty decent out there these days. Not much to complain about. That said, I have noticed those tiny gnats are starting to show up at night. If you haven’t got the newer style screens on your windows, they’ll slip right through the old ones the minute they see a light on. Not exactly what you want buzzing around your bedroom, especially on a hot night.

Highway 522 was quiet again yesterday. A few locals were out, and some trucks working the area, but not many tourists yet. I expect that will change once July arrives, when the kids get out of school and city folks feel the pull of the country.

The thing is, real country is getting harder to find these days. I mean the kind where no chemicals are sprayed on fields or bushes, the kind that doesn’t kill everything it touches and then spread into the lakes, streams, and rivers. And the worst part is, that, sooner or later, that mess makes its way into our well water too.

Those so-called specialists act like they know it all, but really, they only repeat what they’re taught in fancy schools that have moved away from final exams. Without those traditional tests, it’s hard to tell if students are truly learning anything or just coasting through. Makes me shake my head and wonder where we’re headed here in Canada.

On another note, yesterday being such a nice day I spent most of it outside, working on a few projects and taking care of customers who stopped by our gift shop and garage sale. I have to say, sales went great, with plenty of folks coming by and picking up a good number of our things.

Later, since the grass was dry and rain was expected for the next couple of days, my wife and I figured we’d better get the mowing done. Glad we did, and I have to say, it looks real nice out there now, all cleaned up and tidy.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today being a rainy old day, I figure I’ll be working here at my desk where all the magic happens, at least when I get into writing stories. I’ve got a couple of ideas brewing for my columns that actually pay me to write, so that’s probably what I’ll be doing. But hey, you never know, as every day seems to come with its own agenda.

So with that, I’m off to dig into the breakfast my lovely wife whipped up, pancakes with some good grass fed butter over the top. Then I’ll sink back into my lazy boy chair of mine with a steaming cup of cocoa, just because I can.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

The Fine Print Nobody Reads

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Only On The Walters Post

These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

I caught something on the news the other morning, just after the weather. They were talking about a new system called Open Banking. It’s meant to give folks the ability to share their financial information with companies outside their bank. That way, you could see all your accounts in one place, manage your money through different apps, maybe even build credit just by paying your rent on time.

Sounds like a good deal at first. But the more I listened, the more it felt like there was something beneath the surface.

Turns out the government passed part of the law to get it rolling, but the rest … the part that sets the rules and says who’s watching over it well, it’s still missing. Nothing’s clear yet. Then after the election, they stopped mentioning it altogether. It wasn’t in the party platform, and the spring budget didn’t touch it either.

When something that big gets quiet all of a sudden, I start to wonder why.

They’re calling it “consumer-driven banking,” but I don’t see anyone asking the consumers what they think. Meanwhile, private tech companies are ready and waiting. Once your financial data is in their hands, there’s no getting it back. They say it’s secure. They say it helps, but here’s the thing, most people don’t read the fine print these days, and that’s where the trouble begins.

It’s not that the idea is bad, and it might work, for some. But when the people pushing it aren’t talking straight, and the rules aren’t nailed down, you’ve got to ask who’s really set to gain.

So if you hear about it too, maybe take a second look. Because once that door opens, it might not be you holding the handle.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only, Old Days, Old Ways

Coffee, Corporations, and What We Lost

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Only On The Walters Post

These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

You know I’ve had coffee in many places over the years, truck stops, fishing/hunting camps, along with old general stores with a pot sitting on a hot plate by the till. Places where folks sat, talked, and shared a laugh or a worry. That was the kind of coffee shop I knew and grew up with. And I should mention that I didn’t go there just for the coffee either, well I did, as they sure made it mighty tasty back then, some even added a touch of Chicory. But I also went for the company, the steady routine, and maybe a doughnut that didn’t look like it was made in a hurry by a machine, or leave a taste in your mouth for hours after eating it.

But I’ve been watching what’s happened to our small Ma and Pa coffee shops, and I don’t like the turn it’s taken. We used to have local spots that stayed open for years, even decades. Then along came the big chains. At first, they seemed alright. Canadian Branding, warm colours, friendly ads. But here is the thing, over time they started replacing the little shops one by one quietly. They Just moved in, and the others couldn’t compete. Lower prices and faster service did the trick.

Another thing I noticed is that coffee today doesn’t taste the same. Oh, my wife and I, we’ve bought bags at the grocery stores, probably more than we should have, but what I found was that you never know what you’re going to get. One bag tastes alright and the next is flat, bitter or just plain dull. Makes me think they are not picking for quality anymore, just for what is cheapest that week. It does not matter if it is from halfway across the world, or grown under poor conditions. As long as it is cheap… it’s in the bag.

Then there is the seating. Years ago, you could sit down with a buddy and take your time, but now they are tearing out the chairs and downsizing the space, telling folks it’s all about efficiency. The truth is, they do not want you hanging around. Less space, means fewer people to clean and less staff to pay and a quicker turnover. Get your drink and get out. That is the new model, and it does not matter if it kills the spirit of the place.

Another thing is, the donuts are smaller than they used to be, no question. Same price less product. It’s what they call… shrinkflation and another quiet trick they do not talk about.

I am also starting to wonder what is in all this stuff. With everything we are learning about PFAS, those forever chemicals showing up in cups lids and wrappers, who is to say we are not getting a dose with every hot drink or baked good? Nobody is out here testing that cup you are handed, and when a company is more focused on saving money than serving people, health usually takes a back seat.

Here is the last bit that makes me think, and in not a good way. One of the largest coffee shops in Canada isn’t even truly Canadian anymore. The branding still plays that tune, sure. Maple leaves on the cups, smiling faces in the ads. But most of the ownership now sits outside the country. Decisions are not being made for Canadians, or by them. They are being made in boardrooms somewhere else by folks who have likely never stepped into a small-town coffee shop in their life. The money leaves the country… just as fast as it comes in.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open and Your Stories Alive. GW

Welcome to my little corner of the countryside, where storytelling meets the everyday joys of woodworking, farming, and gardening. I’m GW, a writer and published author with over thirty years of experience.