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

Wood-stove Wisdom and Winter Ways on February 12/2025

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Good Morning! They say every snowflake is different, but right now, they all look the same—piled up in my yard.

Well, I’ll tell ya, it’s a damn cold morning here in the north. Woke up to a downright bitter -18°F (-28°C), and let me tell ya, that kind of cold don’t mess around. By the time I got the old shop stove fired up, I was about ready to hightail it back inside. Lucky for me, I threw a few chunks of hardwood in there before bed last night, so it wasn’t too bad once I got things rolling’. But just the same, trudging’ out there and hauling’ out the ashes had these old bones feeling’ every one of their years.

Weather for Port Loring, Ontario:

Today: Cold as a banker’s heart this morning’, with temperatures crawling’ their way up to 20°F (-7°C) by afternoon. Not much of a warm-up, but at least it ain’t getting’ worse.

Tonight: Dropping’ down to a chilly 10°F (-12°C), so best toss another log on the fire before bed.

Tomorrow: More of the same—cold and stubborn, with a high near 19°F (-7°C) and a low of 2°F (-16°C). And if that ain’t enough, there’s a good heap of snow rolling’ in, expecting’ to drop around 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 cm) by the time it’s done. Gonna be a mess out there, so best be prepared.

Sounds like a good time to stay close to the stove and keep the coffee hot.

Highway 522: Well, once again, it’s snow-covered—no surprises there. With these kinds of temperatures, that white stuff ain’t going’ anywhere fast. Not much a fella can do about it neither, ‘cept take it slow and hope the plow guy’s had his coffee. But hey, that’s just life up here in the north, especially as we creep toward mid-February.

Folks in the city might complain when they get a dustin’ of snow, but out here, we measure it in “how many shovels deep” instead of inches. And when the highway disappears under a fresh blanket, we don’t panic—we just pour another coffee, maybe throw another log on the fire, and figure we’ll get where we’re goin’… eventually, and take in what nature has to offer.

On another note, I worked the day away yesterday out in the old woodworking shop, fussing’ with them flutes I’ve been talking’ about these past few weeks. Still lots to do, but I’m making’ good, steady progress. Today, once the shop gets toasty enough that I ain’t seeing’ my own breath, I’ll be back at it.

Not much more to report this morning, so I reckon it’s time to see what my lovely wife has rustled up for breakfast. Can’t beat a good home-cooked meal to start the day. After that, we’ll settle in with a couple of steaming mugs of hot cocoa, have ourselves a good old-fashioned chinwag, and watch the morning show at our bird feeder—no commercials, just the kind of entertainment you don’t get in the city.

This time of year, it’s mostly nuthatches, chickadees, and the occasional finch, flitting about like they own the place. And in a way, I suppose they do. They sure don’t seem to mind the cold, unlike us humans who bundle up like we’re facing’ the next Ice Age. It’s funny—some folks spend a fortune on fancy getaways, looking’ for peace and quiet, while all we gotta do is pour another cup and let nature come to us.

Well folks, that’s about it for this morning. Time to see what kind of mischief—I mean, productivity—I can get into today. I might even take a moment to just sit back and appreciate the simple things, like a warm fire, a few hot drinks, and the fact that I don’t have to scrape ice off a windshield to get where I’m going’.

Until the next time: “Keep your minds open and your stories alive!” GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Homelessness in Canada: A Growing Crisis

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Only On The Walters Post!

I’ve been around long enough to see a lot of changes in this country—some good, some not so much. But one thing that’s become impossible to ignore is the growing number of people without a place to call home. Homelessness has always been a reality, but these days, it’s not just a few folks down on their luck. It’s a full-blown crisis, and it’s only getting worse.

You don’t have to go far to see it. It’s in the big cities, the small towns, even in rural communities where folks used to know everyone by name. The numbers don’t lie—rural homelessness has shot up over 150% since 2016, and in Northern Ontario, it’s skyrocketed by over 200%. Those are damn big jumps. And it’s not just single adults. Nearly a quarter of the people struggling on the streets are kids or young adults. That should be enough to make anyone stop and think.

But here’s the thing—this isn’t just about not having a roof overhead. It’s about what’s driving people to the streets in the first place. Mental health issues, addiction, lack of support systems, and, let’s be real, a housing market that’s completely out of control. You can’t find an affordable place to live when even a crummy basement apartment costs more than some people make in a month.

Then there’s the issue of drugs. More and more, we’re seeing people in states of distress—angry, confused, unpredictable. My own son had an experience not long ago where a homeless man became aggressive for no real reason. It’s happening everywhere. Drug addiction is running rampant, and the stuff hitting the streets now is stronger and deadlier than ever. Fentanyl, meth, whatever else they’re cooking up—it’s a poison that’s taking over.

And let’s not ignore the immigration issue. In just four years, refugee homelessness has grown by over 600%, and the number of homeless immigrants has doubled. Now, I’m not saying we shouldn’t help people in need, but we’ve got to be realistic. Our system is stretched too thin. We’re bringing in more and more people when we can’t even take care of the ones who are already here. That’s not compassion—it’s bad planning.

So, what’s the solution? Well, for starters, we need to stop pretending we can fix this with band-aid solutions. The Ontario government leaves the housing crisis to municipalities, but the funding just isn’t enough. Reports suggest we’d need at least $11 billion over the next decade to make real change—affordable housing, proper support systems, mental health care, addiction treatment, the whole damn package. Another $2 billion could clean up the encampments. That’s a lot of money, sure, but what’s the alternative? Just letting things keep spiraling out of control?

We also need to crack down on the drugs coming into this country. And I mean really crack down. It’s not just about arresting dealers—it’s about shutting down the supply before it even gets here. If that means tighter border security, so be it.

And maybe—just maybe—we need to hit the pause button on immigration. Not forever, but until we can actually handle the people we already have. It’s not about shutting the door, it’s about making sure we have the resources to help people land on their feet instead of right onto the streets.

At the end of the day, this is Canada. We pride ourselves on being a country that takes care of people. But right now, we’re failing. And if we don’t get serious about fixing it, we’re all going to pay the price.

So, what’s it going to be?

Until The Next Time: Keep your minds open and your stories alive. GW

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

Wood-stove Wisdom and Winter Ways on Feb 11/2025

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Good Morning! Winter’s got a grip, but then again so do my boots—at least they did the last time I wore them. Never know though they don’t make things like they used to.

It’s a cloudy morning here in cottage country, and we had about two more inches of light snow late yesterday. Looks like winter isn’t ready to pack its bags just yet.

Today: It’ll be a chilly one, with a high of 11°F (-12°C) And we might see a few stray snowflakes this morning, but otherwise, just a mix of clouds.

Tonight: Temperatures dropping to -8°F (-22°C), so best keep that extra blanket handy.

Tomorrow: Clouds rolling in, with a few flurries expected in the afternoon. A bit warmer, reaching 19°F (-7°C) for the high, with a low of 10°F (-12°C) overnight.

Heads up Though!!! A winter storm watch is in effect from Wednesday evening into Thursday. They’re calling for 8 to 16 inches (20 to 40 cm) of snow, with strong winds kicking up some blowing snow. If you’ve got travel plans, you might want to rethink them.

Best to keep the woodpile stocked, portable generator gassed up, and the coffee hot.

Highway 522 is snow-covered once again this morning, which means two things—our brake pads are getting another good sanding, and our vehicles are earning a fresh coat of that fine Northern Ontario rust, the kind that comes free with every winter but costs a fortune to fix come spring.

Then there’s the group at the diner every morning, debating the best way to tell if it’s too cold to go outside. One says if your boots freeze to the porch before you make it to the truck, it’s a stay-in kind of day. Another figures if the dog takes one sniff of the air and heads back to bed, that’s all the proof you need. The general agreement? If you’re asking, you’re better off pouring another coffee and letting the wood-stove do its job.

Just another day in the north, where the snow’s deep, the coffee’s hot, and common sense comes with a side of humor.

On another note, yesterday my wife and I spent the morning clearing snow from the driveway, decks, and even some off the roofs—and let me tell you, we’ve got plenty of roofs. Kept us busy, but at least we got our exercise in for the day. After that, we rewarded ourselves with a hot drink, a rest, and some lunch. Then, feeling somewhat human again, I moseyed on out to my woodworking shop and got back to work on them flutes I’ve been crafting for the past couple of weeks. Still plenty to do, but little by little, they’re coming along.

So with that, it’s time to sit down and enjoy the breakfast my little woman whipped up, along with a hot cocoa and our usual morning chinwag. After that, I’ll mosey on out to the old woodworking shop. Thought about clearing the driveway again, but with more snow on the way, I figure I’ll let Mother Nature finish what she started before I go battling it again. No sense shoveling twice if you can help it.

You all have a great day!

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Canada’s Arctic Defense: A Step Forward, But Nowhere Near Enough

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In the news today:

Yes, this is a step in the right direction—but let’s be real, it’s too little, too late. Canada’s been dragging its feet on Arctic defense for decades, and now we’re playing catch-up while Russia and China are already making moves. The fact that we don’t have a fully operational military base up there is embarrassing.

Poilievre’s plan—building a base in Iqaluit, adding two icebreakers, and doubling the Canadian Rangers—is a start, but it’s nowhere near enough. The Arctic isn’t just some frozen wasteland; it’s a strategic goldmine. Whoever controls it controls critical shipping routes, untapped resources, and a direct gateway between continents. Russia knows this, which is why they’ve been reopening their old Soviet-era bases and ramping up military activity. China, despite being nowhere near the Arctic, is pushing its way in through economic deals and influence. Meanwhile, Canada has been standing around like a damn bystander.

And let’s talk about funding. Cutting foreign aid might free up some cash, but it’s a band-aid solution. The real issue is how we spend our defense budget. We pour billions?? into it, yet our forces are stretched thin, outdated, and under-equipped. The government loves throwing money at bureaucrats instead of putting it where it counts—troops, equipment, infrastructure. If we’re serious about Arctic defense, we need to go all in:

  • Build more than one base. Iqaluit is a start, but we need multiple permanent installations across the North.
  • Expand our Arctic naval fleet. Two icebreakers won’t cut it. We need a serious presence in those waters, not just a couple of ships navigating frozen mazes.
  • Upgrade our air defense. An airbase in Iqaluit is good, but we need more than just a place to land planes—we need full operational readiness.
  • Boost recruitment and retention. What good is expanding the Rangers if we can’t even keep our regular forces fully staffed? Pay, benefits, and support need a major overhaul.
  • Strengthen NORAD cooperation. We rely too much on the U.S., and while coordination is key, we need to stand on our own two feet.

At the end of the day, this plan is better than nothing, but let’s not kid ourselves—it’s just the first step in a long race we’re already behind in. If we don’t take Arctic defense seriously now, we’ll be paying for it later, and the cost won’t just be in dollars.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive!” GW

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

North Wind’s Talkin’, Best Listen Close on Feb 10/2025

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Good day from the North—where a man’s word still holds weight, and a handshake means more than any contract. But times are changing, so best tread carefully.

It’s a cloudy morning starting things off here in the country. The kind where the coffee’s hot, the wood-stove’s crackling, and the world feels just a little quieter. But don’t let that fool you—change is always rolling in, just like the weather.

Port Loring, Ontario Weather Forecast:

  • Today: Cloudy with a chance of light snow or flurries. High around 30°F (-1°C).
  • Tonight: Mostly cloudy, a few passing flurries possible. Low near 20°F (-7°C).
  • Tomorrow: A mix of sun and cloud, with a chilly breeze. High around 28°F (-2°C).
  • Yeah, I’m still holding onto Fahrenheit. Folks say Celsius makes more sense, but truth be told, I never saw the logic in a system where 0 just means wet fingers and a bad mood.

Best keep the fire stoked and the kettle on—looks like winter’s still got a grip.

Highway 522 has some icy patches here and there, but if you’re needing a trip to the city, the roads should do ya fine—just keep a steady hand on the wheel. But let’s not forget, it is February, and around these parts, that means being ready for just about anything. One minute, it’s smooth sailing, and the next, you’re white-knuckling through a snow squall wondering if you should’ve packed an overnight bag. Let your guard down for even a second, and well… let’s just say, winter has a way of reminding you who’s really in charge.

You know-–Out here, a “quick trip” to the hardware store is never quick. You go in for a box of screws, and next thing you know, you’re stuck in a half-hour chat about the weather, last night’s game, and who’s been spotted with a new ATV. By the time you finally make it home, you’ve forgotten the screws but somehow ended up with a bag of peanuts and the freshest gossip in town.

On another note: Yesterday, I didn’t make it to the woodworking shop, but I did manage to get my new computer up and running, along with all the tools I need for writing my stories. Took most of the day to get everything squared away, but now that computer’s purring like a kitten. My son Karl calls it a beast—and it is, in the best way. Should be set for a few years, though with these modern gadgets, you never really know.

What are you up to today, GW? Well, if all goes according to plan, I’m hoping to get some more work done on those flutes I’ve been crafting for the past couple of weeks. There’s still plenty of tedious work left to do, but that’s just the way it goes with certain projects—requires patience and a steady hand.

So with that I’m off for my morning breakfast and our cup of hot cocoa, followed by the usual chat with my lovely wife. Then, I’ll let the day unfold around me—there’s always a few surprises lurking in the wings.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

George's Writers Corner, Weather

Coffee First, Questions Later Here on The Walters Post on Feb 9/2025

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Good Morning! You know: If winter was a neighbour, I’d be thinking about putting up a fence.

Starting things off, it’s a cloudy old morning here in Cottage Country, and the snowflakes are dancing around as I sit here tappin’ away on the keys. So far, it ain’t amounted to much, but if it keeps up like this, we might just have a little extra shovelling to do come tomorrow morning. Guess we’ll see what Mother Nature’s got in store for us.

Now, for the weather forecast for Port Loring, Ontario:

Today: Cloudy with scattered snow flurries. Not much accumulation expected, but don’t be surprised if the ground gets a fresh dusting. Highs around 30°F (-1°C).

Tonight: The clouds are stickin’ around, with a few more flurries drifting through. Lows near 21°F (-6°C).

Tomorrow: Mostly cloudy, with a few peeks of sun trying to break through. Still a chance of a stray flurry, but nothing too serious. Highs reaching 28°F (-2°C).

Sounds like a good day to keep the wood-stove cracklin’ and a hot drink close by. Stay warm!

Note: You’ll notice I put Fahrenheit first before Celsius. Why? Well, I reckon the old ways still work just fine for me. Grew up with Fahrenheit, and by the time Celsius came along, I was already set in my ways. Besides, keeps folks on their toes—gives ’em a little brain exercise convertin’ if they need to!

Highway 522 is snow-covered this morning, which means travel ain’t gonna be the greatest—at least for a spell. But the thing about weather is, you never really know for sure. Now I may have some high-tech weather gadgets set up, thanks to my son Karl—he’s the techie of the family—but I still like to trust what nature’s tellin’ me. You step outside, take a whiff of the air, and watch the critters; they’ve got their own way of giving’ the forecast. If the squirrels are scurrying, you can bet snow’s on the way. And if the crows/ravens are hollering, something’s brewing. It’s a good mix of tech and tradition—keeps me on my toes, and I like to think it makes me a bit of an expert… well, at least in my own neck of the woods!

Well, yesterday I was all set to spend the day workin’ on those flutes in my old woodworking shop, but then I got a call from my son, Karl. He tells me my new computer’s all set up—just needs to have the stuff transferred from my old one. So, we gathered up what we needed and headed into North Bay. I’ll tell ya, that new computer sure is something. It wasn’t exactly cheap, but with all the high-tech gadgets and gizmos my son packed into it, I reckon it’ll work wonders. Karl’s the kind of guy who can pour his expertise into anything, and let’s just say he’s made sure his dad’s got the best setup possible. You could call it “Karl-proofed,” since he’s a Linux guy, and I’ll admit, I’m still gettin’ the hang of all that Linux business, but after thirty years or so of using it, I’m startin’ to get comfortable. Slowly, but surely, right? Ha.

Once we had everything transferred over, Karl added some new editing tools that’ll make my YouTube video work easier, plus a new free word processor called LibreOffice. It’s a handy thing, especially since it’s open-source and has millions of folks chipping in to make it better. Should do wonders for all my story writing, and it’s hard to beat free.

After all that tech stuff was in place, my wife and I treated Karl to lunch at Casey’s—one of our favourite spots in town. We had a good meal, a nice chat, and picked up some groceries, along with a cup of coffee before heading back home. All in all, it was a good day, though I’ll tell ya, we were both worn out by the time we got home.

What’ll you be up to today, GW? Well, I’ll be setting up that new computer, of course. Should be an interesting project—that is, if I can get all these wires plugged in the right spots. It’s like a puzzle, and I’m fairly certain I’ll end up with one extra cord with nowhere to go! But hey, I’ve got Karl just a phone call away, so I’m covered… I hope!

So, with that, I’m off to enjoy my morning breakfast, which my lovely wife has once again whipped up for me. After that, we’ll have our chat over a warm cup of hot cocoa, and then it’s time to dive into this new computer setup. We’ll see how that goes!

Now you’ve got the rest of the story.’ Or at least, part of it! You all have a great day, and remember;

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive!” GW

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

Some Snow on the Roads, Heat in the Stove on Feb 8/2025

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Good Morning! The wood-stove’s hungry, the coffee’s ready, and the snow shovel’s pretending it doesn’t see me.

Well in spite of some clouds, the sun is trying’ to show herself here in the north this morning’. Might not be a full-on blue-sky day, but she’s doing’ her best to shine through.

Port Loring, Ontario Weather Forecast:

Today: Mostly cloudy with a few breaks of sunshine now and then. High around 26°F (-3°C). A light breeze, just enough to remind you it’s still winter.

Tonight: Cooling’ down to about 16°F (-9°C), with the clouds hanging’ around. Might see a few flurries drifting’ in overnight.

Tomorrow: Starting’ off with a mix of sun and cloud, but by afternoon, expect a bit of snow. Not much, just a dusting—maybe an inch (1 cm) at most. High near 26°F (-4°C). Dropping’ down to 3°F (-16°C) at night, so keep that firewood close by.

As it looks like winter ain’t loosening her grip just yet. Stay warm!

Highway 522 is pretty well clear of snow this morning, but there are still a few spots where winter is hanging on, waiting to catch folks off guard. So, if you are heading out, it would be a good idea to take it easy. But let’s face it–living where we do, driving with care is not just about the snow; as there are plenty of other things to watch for, like deer, moose, wild turkeys, and the occasional porcupine, all thinking they have the—right of way.

If you have ever had a moose step out in front of you, you know they are not in any hurry. They will just stand there staring at you, probably wondering why you are in such a rush. And turkeys? Well, they are either standing in the middle of the road without a care in the world or suddenly taking off like they just remembered they left the stove on. Either way, it is always best to stay alert. Around here, the roads have a way of keeping you on your toes—just like the folks driving on them.

On another note, I’ve been working away in my old woodworking shop for the past couple of weeks, creating a new batch of flutes. Had a good day yesterday, though—things went to plan, and I didn’t feel all that bad. My old mind stayed focused on good things, not wandering off to places it shouldn’t. There’s something about the rhythm of sanding and shaping the wood that helps clear out the cobwebs. It’s the kind of work where you can lose yourself in the process, let your hands follow the grain, and everything just clicks into place. After all this time, it still feels satisfying when the pieces come together the way they should—almost like the wood knows exactly what you’re after before you even make the cut.

And when the day wraps up, there’s that quiet contentment of knowing you’ve crafted something with your own hands that might bring a little peace or joy to someone. That’s the real beauty of it all—keeping the mind clear and the heart full, one flute at a time.

Today, I’ll probably be doing the same as yesterday, but then again, who’s to say? I’ve found that some days I head out to the shop all set to dive into a project I’ve been working’ on, and before I know it, something else catches my eye. Maybe it’s the way the light hits the wood or the feel of a tool I haven’t used in a while. Next thing you know, I’m off in a completely different direction, working’ on something’ I hadn’t planned on at all. That’s the beauty of the shop—every day’s a bit of a surprise. It’s like the wood’s got a way of speaking’ to you, whispering’, “Hey, try this today,” and before you can argue, you’re right there in the thick of it. It’s never the same old routine, and that’s what keeps it so interesting. No matter what I set out to do, you can bet something unexpected is bound to happen—’cause out here, that’s just how the days roll.

With that, I’m off once again for my morning breakfast, courtesy of my lovely wife. After that, we’ll sit down together and enjoy our usual cup of hot cocoa, along with our regular chat. It’s a nice way to start the day, just the two of us, taking’ the time to catch up on whatever’s on our minds. After that? Well, we’ll see where the day takes us. Might head out to the shop, might sit a spell and enjoy the quiet—who knows? But for now, I’m lookin’ forward to that first sip of cocoa and the peace of the morning with Ruth.

“Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive!” GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

The 51st State? Not So Fast, My Friends

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Now here’s a thought that’s been floating around a lot lately: Canada becoming the 51st state of the U.S. The thing is believe it or not, a good chunk of folks have been scratching their heads over it, some even panicking, but let’s take a step back and keep things in perspective, shall we?

Oh sure, there’s been some talk—some from the south, some from the north—and suddenly, everyone’s wondering if we’re about to sign away our Canadian pride, for a shot at a shiny new American flag. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. To me, this feels more like a political game than a real threat. I mean, after all, it’s not the first time someone has floated this idea out there, just to see what rises to the surface.

Truth be told, most of this talk about becoming the 51st state is probably getting more attention than it deserves. People are getting all worked up over something, that’s more about keeping headlines buzzing, than about any real change. I mean—Canada’s been its own country for a long time now, and we’re doing just fine.

Now, don’t get me wrong, becoming a 51st state wouldn’t be the end of the world. Just think of it: no more long lines at the border, a chance to grab some sunshine in Florida during the endless winter, and maybe even getting in on the next big Super Bowl commercial. If it comes with some perks, maybe it wouldn’t be so bad, eh?

But jokes aside, it’s hard to imagine us trading in our maple syrup for a statehood application. The truth is, we’re a proud bunch up here. Sure, we’ve got our differences with the neighbours down south, but at the end of the day, we’ve managed just fine on our own, thank you very much.

So while the chatter will likely keep rolling, I don’t think we need to start making room for the stars and stripes just yet. Canada’s not going anywhere. We’re too stubborn for that—and we’ve got too many good things to hang onto..

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Linux: The Best of the Best and Why More Folks Should Give It a Try

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By George Walters

Only On The Walters Post!

You know, I ain’t no computer expert, not by a long shot. But I’ve been around long enough to see the way things are going, and I can tell you one thing for sure—Linux, or whatever version you prefer, is the way to go.

Now I’ve been using Linux for a while now, and the more I learn about it, the more I realize just how much better it is than the alternatives. Some of these big-name companies out there seem to be more interested in emptying your wallet than giving you a good, solid operating system. They charge you for everything—your software, your updates, even just for the privilege of using their system. And if you don’t pay up? Well, good luck keeping your system running smoothly.

Linux, on the other hand, is open-source. Now, what does that mean? Well, it means real smart fellers and gals from all over the world can work on it, improve it, and share those improvements with the rest of us. It’s a system built by the people, for the people, and that’s something worth supporting. The best part? It doesn’t cost you a cent. You can download it, install it, and run it for free. No hidden fees, no sneaky charges, just a solid, reliable system that does what you need it to do.

And let’s talk security. These days, viruses and malware are running rampant, and a lot of the big-name systems out there seem to have a hard time keeping up. Every time you turn around, there’s another major security breach, another batch of personal data leaked, and another round of updates that may or may not actually fix the problem. With Linux, security is baked right into the design. It’s not perfect—nothing is—but it’s a whole lot safer than some of the alternatives. That’s why so many servers, businesses, and even government systems rely on Linux. If it’s good enough for them, it’s good enough for me.

And let’s not forget the latest news. The Linux kernel has now surpassed 40 million lines of code, meaning it’s growing and improving all the time. Ubuntu just rolled out version 24.10, keeping up with the latest technology. The Gnome desktop is getting new updates, LibreOffice just released a fresh version, and Wine 10 is making it easier than ever to run Windows programs right inside Linux.

Even big companies are taking notice. System76, one of the leaders in Linux-based computers, just refreshed their Meerkat mini PC, showing that Linux isn’t just for tech folks—it’s for anyone who wants a solid, reliable system.

I have to give credit where credit is due—my son Karl, a very high-tech fellow, got me into Linux years ago, and I’m glad he did. I will never know as much as him when it comes to Linux and technology, but I’m making out okay with what I do know. Plus, they are also making it easier to use, much more so than—well, I won’t mention any names.

So, if you’ve been thinking about making a switch, or if you’re just tired of paying for an operating system that should be free in the first place, maybe it’s time to take a closer look at Linux. There are a lot of different versions—Ubuntu, Mint, Fedora, and more—but they all have one thing in common: they put control back in the hands of the people using them.

As I said earlier—I may not know everything about Linux, but I know one thing—it’s the best of the best, and in a world where everything seems to come with a price tag, it’s nice to have something that’s truly free.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

The Road to Self-Driving Cars—A Bumpier Ride Than Expected

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Back in 2016, the idea of cars driving themselves seemed just around the corner. One well-known tech entrepreneur even went so far as to say that with just a few software updates, owners would be able to sit back, relax, and let their vehicles do all the work. Fast forward nearly a decade, and while the technology has advanced, true hands-free driving still isn’t a reality.

The issue? Turns out, the hardware in many of these vehicles isn’t quite up to the task. Even models built in recent years—ones that were said to be ready for full autonomy—are now being left behind as newer versions roll out. For those who paid extra, believing they were investing in the future, this has been a frustrating ride.

Over time, several updates have promised to bridge the gap, but each new version has quietly pushed the finish line further down the road. The latest hardware might finally be capable of delivering on those early promises, but there’s still no clear answer on whether older models will get the upgrades they need.

Some owners have taken legal action, arguing that they were sold a dream that hasn’t materialized. A recent court ruling has stated that updates should be provided at no extra cost—a decision that will no doubt be costly for the company behind it all.

As for the man at the centre of it? He’s no politician making empty campaign promises. He’s a businessman and an innovator, and while his confidence might have been ahead of the technology, at least he’s still working toward the goal. If history has taught us anything, it’s that big ideas often take longer than expected.

So, will cars ever truly drive themselves? Probably. But for now, best to keep your hands on the wheel—just in case.

“Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive!” GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

“The Real Problem Isn’t Across the Border—It’s Closer to Home”

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Well, as I sit here on this chilly morning, pondering on the latest headlines about this poll, I have to say, it leaves me with a sense of frustration. The Ipsos poll, which claimed that nearly 70% of Canadians hold a more negative view of the United States due to Trump’s tariffs, is one thing. But let’s take a step back and ask: where exactly was this poll taken? Who decided who should be surveyed? You see, I’ve always had my doubts about these polls. I mean, who are the people answering these questions? Do they represent the broad spectrum of opinions, or is it just a carefully curated group that gives them the answers they want? In my humble opinion, a lot of these polls can be skewed, and perhaps even rigged to produce the results someone wants. But that’s just me, George Walters, looking at things through the lens of someone who’s seen a lot of manipulation in my time.

Now, what really gets me fired up is how so many folks seem to point their fingers at the American people, as if they’re the ones behind the chaos we’re experiencing in Canada. But let me tell you, it’s not the people of the United States who are responsible for these actions. The real blame lies with the powers that be, both south of the border and right here at home. And we, as Canadians, need to wake up and realize that the folks we ought to be questioning aren’t your average American citizen. The ones making the decisions that affect our lives are the ones in charge, and that’s who we should be directing our energy towards.

As for Trump and his tariffs, let’s face it—he didn’t exactly win any popularity contests with that move. But you can’t really blame the American people for voting him in the first place. They were looking for someone who wasn’t afraid to shake things up and call out the corruption that’s been festering in their system for years. Sounds familiar, doesn’t it? We’ve got our fair share of corruption here in Canada, too. Politicians say one thing and do another. How many times have we seen that? How many times have we been promised change, only to be left wondering what happened?

You see, what people want—whether they’re in the States or here in Canada—is someone who’s going to fix things, someone who’s going to take a stand against the corruption that’s been eating away at our trust for too long. And it’s the same story on both sides of the border. Whether it’s Trump with his tariffs or our own politicians making empty promises, it’s high time we all wake up and demand real change. But don’t mistake that for blaming the average person on the street. We need to direct our frustrations where they belong: at the folks in charge.

“Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive!” GW

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

Before the Internet, There Was Coffee and a Good Chat—Some Things Still Matter on Feb 7/2025

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Good Morning! The snow’s deep, the coffee’s strong, and the to-do list just got longer— which is just the way I like it.

For a change, waking up here in the north, we are in the midst of some sunshine, but it is a cool one with the temperature getting out of bed sitting at 13°F (-10°C). As the day progresses, expect some sun, then increasing clouds, with a high reaching 24°F (-5°C). Come nightfall, the mercury will dip to around 10°F (-12°C), so keep that extra blanket handy.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, Saturday brings mostly cloudy skies with a high of 26°F (-4°C) and a low of 11°F (-12°C). Not much change in the temperature department, but at least the winds are keeping their calm, making it a tad more bearable for any outdoor chores or a leisurely stroll through the snow-laden trails.

Stay warm, folks, and enjoy the northern beauty that surrounds us.

Highway 522 Report: The highway is mostly bare this morning, which, for this time of year, is about as rare as a warm seat on an outhouse in January. With the sun making an appearance, it’s shaping up to be a decent day for a trip to the city—if you’re in need of groceries, supplies, or just feel like reminding yourself what traffic lights look like. Around here, we’ve got two fine hardware stores, but if you’re after things like fresh produce or, heaven forbid, something fancier than bologna, it’s a good hour and a half to civilization. As for Ruth and me, we’re all set. We stocked up a couple of weeks ago, and unless she suddenly decides we need something, I think I’ll be staying right where I am.

On another note, I spent the better part of yesterday holed up in my old woodworking shop, working away on them flutes I’ve been yammering about for the past week or so. Still plenty to do, though—turns out, making a flute ain’t just drilling a hole in a stick and calling it music. There’s a heap of tedious little details that require a fella to be on his toes every second. One slip of the hand, and just like that, what was supposed to be a fine instrument becomes next winter’s kindling.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s patience—well, most of the time. I’ll admit, if you were within earshot of my shop now and then, you might hear a few words that’d make the air turn a shade of blue not found in any paint catalogue. But that’s woodworking for you—one minute, you’re humming along like a well-tuned saw, and the next, you’re having a heated discussion with a stubborn piece of wood that refuses to cooperate.

At any rate, I’ll be back at it today, hoping to make some real progress. If all goes well and I don’t end up adding too much to the firewood pile, we just might have a nice batch of 20 wooden flutes ready in a couple of weeks. But… well, let’s not count our flutes before they’re played!

So once again, it’s time for my morning breakfast, followed by our usual morning chat over a hot cup of cocoa. Funny thing, I never get tired of these little rituals—just me, Ruth/my lovely wife, and the quiet hum of a world that, for the most part, minds its own business. After fifty-some years together, we’ve got things figured out pretty well—living life how we want, doing things when we feel like it, and not losing a wink of sleep over what anyone else thinks about it.

Some folks spend half their days worrying about keeping up with the Joneses. Me? I wouldn’t trade places with them for all the gold in the Klondike. There’s a certain freedom in knowing that the only schedule we keep is the one we set ourselves. If we feel like working, we work. If we feel like loafing, well, the porch chairs are always open for business. And if the world wants to rush around like a chicken with its head cut off—well, that’s their problem, not ours.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, my cocoa’s getting cold, and Ruth’s already giving me that look that says I better quit writing and get to sipping.

“Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive!” GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

“Trump’s 30-Day Tariff Reprieve: A Political Chess Move or Just for Show?”

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Only on The Walters Post!

Well, folks, here we go again. Another day, another round of political gymnastics, and this time, it’s a good old-fashioned tariff reprieve—thirty days of temporary relief, courtesy of our southern neighbour’s top dog, Donald Trump. Now, depending on who you ask, this is either a goodwill gesture or some secretive scheme cooked up in a backroom somewhere. Me? I think it’s just another round of what I like to call “The Great Political Theatre.” Plenty of drama, lots of finger-pointing, and the occasional plot twist that keeps folks talking around their morning coffee.

Some are reading between the lines, trying to decode some hidden message in Trump’s move, like it’s one of those puzzle books where you have to hold the page up to a mirror to see the real answer. But here’s the thing–sometimes a delay is just a delay. Maybe he’s buying time, maybe he wants to talk trade with Canada and Mexico down the road, or maybe, just maybe, he enjoys seeing people tie themselves into knots trying to figure out his next move. Wouldn’t be the first time.

Of course, up here in Canada, we’ve got our fair share of folks who love to sound the alarm at the first sign of a shake-up. You’d think Trump announced he was moving the whole country south of the border. But no, it’s just thirty days. A brief pause in what will surely be another long-winded debate about who’s getting the better deal. And let’s be honest, when it comes to trade, everybody thinks they’re getting the short end of the stick—until they’re the ones holding the stick.

Meanwhile, Canadian politicians are doing what they do best: talking in circles while pretending to walk in a straight line. Our Powers that be says they’ll have a chat with Trump, which in politician-speak means a carefully crafted conversation where both sides say a lot– without actually saying much at all. That’s diplomacy for you.

Now, I’m not saying we should all sit back and ignore what’s happening, but maybe—just maybe—we could take a deep breath and wait to see how this unfolds before jumping to conclusions. If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that politicians love a good crisis, and if they can’t find one, they’ll make one. Keeps the headlines fresh, after all.

So, for now, let’s enjoy our thirty-day reprieve. Maybe even take a moment to appreciate that, as for once, something in politics actually came with a timeline. That alone is a rare sight. And when the next round of trade talk theatrics begins, we’ll grab some popcorn and watch the show—because if history’s taught us anything, it’s that there’s always another act waiting in the wings.

“Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive!” GW

George's Writers Corner, Weather

“Winter’s Grip Tightens: Cold, Snow, and a Battle in the Skies Over Port Loring” Only On The Walters Post

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Well, folks, looks like Port Loring is in for a real mixed bag of weather over the next couple of weeks. Some will love it, others… not so much. The big players in the atmosphere are setting up quite the show—cold air trying to push in, warm air fighting back, and a few rounds of snow in between.

Starting off, expect periods of light snow today with a bit of a breeze picking up in the afternoon. Temperatures will hover around -2°C (29°F) for the high, dipping down to -13°C (9°F) overnight.

Friday brings low clouds and a bit of a dreary feel, sitting at -5°C (24°F) during the day and cooling off to -14°C (7°F) at night. Saturday, not much different—mostly cloudy, with daytime highs of -4°C (25°F) and nighttime lows of -12°C (10°F).

By Sunday, we might see a bit of sun early on before more clouds roll in. The thermometer will struggle to reach -5°C (23°F), and it’ll be a chilly -18°C (0°F) overnight.

As we move into next week, the cold tightens its grip. Monday through Wednesday looks mostly cloudy with occasional flurries. Highs will stick around -5°C (23°F) to -10°C (13°F), with nighttime temps dipping as low as -19°C (-2°F).

By Thursday, February 13, another round of snow could be on the way, with a high of -8°C (18°F) and a low of -17°C (2°F). And it won’t stop there—another system might bring more snow through the weekend, keeping highs around -6°C (20°F) and lows near -13°C (9°F).

Beyond that, expect the cold to hang around, with some sun trying to break through now and then. Temperatures will stay below freezing, with overnight lows often dropping into the -17°C to -19°C range (1°F to -2°F).

In short—cold, snowy, and plenty of cloud cover for the next two weeks. The battle between winter and a very eager spring is on, and for now, winter’s got the upper hand. Stay warm!

“Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive!” GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Will Canada Ever Get Serious About Defence? – Only on The Walters Post

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You know in my mind, Canada’s been taking it easy on defence for years, figuring someone else would handle the heavy lifting while we tossed a few bucks at our military and called it good enough. Now the government’s promising to hit NATO’s 2% spending target by 2027, which sounds nice—if you believe it. Problem is, we’ve heard this kind of talk before. The thing is—Politicians love making big promises, spreading out spending like a farmer spreading too little manure over too much field, hoping no one notices. Meanwhile, our allies are shaking their heads, likely wondering if we’ll ever pull our weight.

And one has to remember that the world’s not getting any friendlier, either. Trouble’s brewing in all sorts of places, and relying on others to keep us safe might not cut it much longer. It should also be noted, that some of our closest allies are already spending far more, leaving Canada looking like the neighbour who borrows tools, but never buys his own. And with new defence deals being talked about, we might find ourselves left out if we don’t start taking things seriously.

Of course, just throwing money at the problem won’t fix it, not by a long shot. Our military needs better gear, quicker action on getting what it needs, and a real commitment–something more than another batch of fancy words that never turn into action. If we truly care about keeping the country safe, it’s time to stop talking and start doing. Otherwise, we’ll be left standing there, hands in our pockets, wondering why no one’s got our back when we need it most.

“Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive!” GW

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

From Logging Trails to Digital Highways: Life in the North Keeps Moving on Feb 6/2025

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Good Morning! I’ve seen the future, and guess what? It still starts with a strong cup of coffee and a bit of hard work. Which I will be doing a bit later on

Well, here we go again, folks. Waking up this morning in Cottage Country, we’re looking at cloudy skies and a few lazy flurries drifting down. Nothing to get too excited about—sure not enough to have me dragging out the old snowblower. And that’s just fine with my wife and me, seeing as we’re still feeling the effects of the last round of shovelling.

Today (Thursday, Feb 6): Off and on snow through the day, might see a couple of centimetres (an inch or so) pile up, but nothing major. A bit of a breeze picking up later on. High around 29°F (-2°C), dropping to 9°F (-13°C) tonight.

Tonight: Staying cloudy with the chance of a few lingering flurries. Cold, but not the worst we’ve seen.

Tomorrow (Friday, Feb 7): More clouds hanging around, not much in the way of sunshine. Temperature will hover around 24°F (-5°C) for the high and dip down to 7°F (-14°C) overnight.

All in all, a typical February day in the north—nothing we haven’t handled before. Best keep the wood-stove fed and the coffee hot.

If you’re heading out this morning, Highway 522 has a light covering of snow with some icy spots here and there. Nothing too serious, but enough to keep an eye on, especially in the shaded areas where the sun doesn’t hit. As the morning moves along and temperatures rise a touch, things should start to melt, making for better driving conditions.

That said, it’s still one of those mornings where a little extra caution wouldn’t hurt. Some folks will be taking it slow, while others will be in a hurry like usual—until they realize that ice doesn’t much care how fast they want to go. Best to give yourself a bit of extra time and take ‘er easy. No sense rushing just to end up swapping stories at the tow truck yard.

Yesterday, well yesterday I had big plans to spend the day out in the old woodworking shop, but after stepping outside and feeling that bitter cold, I decided my time would be better spent indoors. So, I parked myself in front of the computer and worked away on some stories for the newspaper. Turned out to be a pretty productive day—at least in the writing department.

Today, though, things have warmed up some, and with my shop stove perking away as I type, I reckon it’s time to head back out and get to work on them flutes. I’ve found over the years that stepping away from a long, tedious job now and then does wonders. Gives the mind a chance to reset, and sometimes, when you come back to it, things just seem to fall into place—well, most of the time. Other times, you just end up staring at it, wondering what the heck you were thinking in the first place. But that’s all part of the process.

So, with that, I’m off for my breakfast—once again, prepared by my lovely wife. After that, we’ll settle in with our usual hot cocoa and have a good chat, just the two of us. And then, well, who knows what the day will bring? We can plan all we want, but in the end, the results are always a bit of a mystery. Sometimes, the best part of the day is just letting it unfold.

You all have a great day and:

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Why Canada Might Benefit from Musk’s Way of Doing Things

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You know—I’ve been around long enough to know that a lot of government spending doesn’t always go where it should. In fact, there’s a lot of waste, and when it’s pointed out, it’s hard to ignore. Down in the U.S., Elon Musk’s been given a bit of leeway to dig into the government’s spending, and what he’s finding isn’t pretty. From the looks of it, there are trillions of dollars spent on things that don’t make sense, and Musk’s not afraid to call it out.

Now, Musk is a guy who knows how to manage large organizations, and whether you like his style or not, you can’t argue with the fact that he gets things done. President Trump said that Musk’s job isn’t to make decisions on his own, but to help uncover wasteful practices and bring them to light. And it seems like Musk’s team is finding some pretty staggering numbers—bad spending, poor management, and all sorts of things that are hard to explain.

Here’s the thing: Canada’s not much different. We have our own share of inefficiencies and questionable spending, and maybe it’s time we looked at bringing in someone who doesn’t care about politics or bureaucracy. Maybe we need someone who’s willing to roll up their sleeves, take a hard look at where our money’s going, and say, “This can be done better.”

Sure, some folks may say Musk’s too much of a maverick, but when you’re dealing with waste like this, maybe it’s time for a bit of boldness. We’ve seen what Musk has accomplished with his companies, and it’s hard not to think that we could use a bit of that energy here to straighten things out.

So, here’s to finding the waste and cutting it down. Maybe if Musk can do it, I think we need someone like him here in Canada.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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

Good Morning from the Heart of the North on Feb 5/2025

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Good Morning From: Where the Air’s Cold, the Coffee’s Hot, and the Roads Ain’t Always Paved!

I have to tell you folks, she’s a cold one this morning here in cottage country. Rolling out of bed, the thermometer was sitting at -28.9°C (-20°F), and by the time I made my way to the woodworking shop, it had dropped even further to -32°C (-25°F)—the coldest morning so far this winter.

Weather for Port Loring, ON

Today:
Mostly sunny with clouds limiting the sunshine.
High: -6°C (21°F)
Low: -10°C (13°F)

Thursday:
Periods of snow, accumulating 2-4 cm. Breezy in the afternoon.
High: 0°C (33°F)
Low: -10°C (14°F)

A real taste of winter out there—stay warm, and if you can, keep the coffee hot and the fire going.

Highway 522 is snow-covered, which makes things slicker than a fresh-caught trout. With it being this cold, the salt ain’t doing much besides sitting there, looking useless. In some ways, that’s a good thing—at least it ain’t chewing through the old cars like a beaver on a pine log. But with what they’re spreading on the roads these days, a truck’s lucky to see its tenth birthday before it’s more rust than metal.

Damn shame, too, ‘cause they sure ain’t cheap to replace. Used to be a working man could save up and get himself a decent set of wheels. Now? You just about gotta sell a cow, a chunk of your back forty, and maybe your best fishing spot just to afford one. And they call this a great country we live in. Well, the land’s still great… but the folks running it? Let’s just say they could use a little more common sense and a little less hot air.

And for the locals, well they are handling the cold in their usual ways—some better than others. You’ve got the ones bundled up like they’re walking across the Arctic, only to waddle ten feet to the woodpile and declare it “too damn cold for this nonsense.” Then there’s the stubborn bunch, strolling around in a flannel shirt like it’s a breezy fall day, claiming, “Meh, seen worse.” Seen worse, sure—but that don’t mean frostbite ain’t creeping up on ‘em.

Truck/car batteries are dropping like flies, and you can hear the groans of engines that ain’t quite sure they want to wake up. Shovels are getting a workout, and snowblowers are roaring to life—well, the ones that actually do start. The rest are just sitting there, refusing to work like a teenager asked to take out the trash. And don’t even mention the outhouses—this is the kind of cold that makes a man/woman reconsider all their life choices before sittin’ down on that seat.

Even the wildlife ain’t sure what to do. The ravens are huddled together like they’re plotting a takeover of the nearest chimney, and the squirrels? They’re probably second-guessing burying half their stash three feet under the ice. But truth told—it’s just another day for us hardy folks!

On another note, yesterday my wife and I rolled up our sleeves and tackled the driveway and decks, clearing that fresh snow that piled up overnight. Took us most of the morning, and by the time we were finished, I figured we’d earned a good long rest. But, as it turns out, I couldn’t have been more wrong.

Truth be told, we didn’t slow down much for the rest of the day. I was kept busy tending to the fires in both the shop stove and our old wood furnace, while my lovely wife was still at it—cleaning, cooking, and keeping everything running smooth as always. She never sits down for long that woman, no matter what is going on. There’s always something to do, and she’s got a way of getting it done without so much as breaking a sweat. It’s like she’s got a never-ending supply of get-up-and-go tucked away somewhere.

And when I think about it, I didn’t sit much either. Ended up heading out to the woodworking shop for a couple of hours, fiddling around with projects. So, I guess we weren’t really all that tired after all. Just needed a change of pace.

With that, I’m off for breakfast—waffles this morning, made by my lovely wife. Now, she’s got a real gift in the kitchen. Those waffles? They’re better than any fancy restaurant could serve, and I swear they taste even sweeter than they look—must be something in the air or maybe just the way she works her magic. After that, we’ll kick back with our hot cocoa and have our usual chat before the day starts.

Well actually—I guess the day’s already in motion—me writing away and her in the kitchen making sure everything’s just right. So yea!! Just another day in our little corner of the world, and so far, it’s a good one, at that.

You all have a great day now. Take it easy, keep that coffee hot, and if you’re lucky enough to be inside, stay warm!

“Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive!” GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

The Reality of “Made in Canada/Product of Canada” – Until We Fix This, It’s Just Talk

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As someone who’s spent a lifetime working the land, seeing the seasons come and go, and building up a life from the soil, I’ve come to realize something – all this talk about making and producing things here in Canada, it’s just that: talk. Sure, there’s plenty of hype about buying local, growing local, but the truth is, until we deal with the mess between provinces, things aren’t going to get any better.

For decades, we’ve had to work within a system that’s stuck between provincial borders. It’s a system that lets each province make their own rules, and more often than not, those rules stop goods from moving freely between us. We talk about supporting Canadian farmers, Canadian businesses – yet, when it comes down to it, our own laws get in the way of that.

Take a simple example: You can’t even send a shipment of produce or goods from one province to another without running into red tape. Each province has its own set of standards and regulations, and it doesn’t matter if you’re growing the same damn tomatoes in Ontario or B.C. – the government in each place will have its own idea of how things should be done. That’s the problem with the system we’ve built. You can’t have “Made in Canada” if we’re not able to trade freely across our own borders.

And let’s talk about what gets in the way of making things here. The infrastructure is there in some areas, but when you add in all the hoops to jump through, things get complicated fast. I’ve seen it myself – a farm product, perfectly good and ready to be shipped to another province, gets held up because of rules that don’t even make sense in the first place.

So, until we get this sorted out – until the provinces decide to stop playing their own games and start working together – we’ll keep seeing this disconnect between what we say we want and what we can actually do. It’s time we face the facts: supporting Canadian-made is going to be a lot harder if we can’t even figure out how to trade across our own damn country.

If we’re serious about strengthening our local economies and securing our future, it’s time to demand that our leaders fix this mess. Until then, it’ll be business as usual: more talk, less action.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW