Canada has always been known for its love of hockey, its proud traditions, and its ability to stand together when it matters most. But lately, it seems that unity is being replaced with division, and for what? Politics?

Take Wayne Gretzky, for example. “The Great One” has given everything to Canadian hockey, but now some folks are turning on him just because he’s been seen talking to Donald Trump. The man hasn’t come out and said he wants Canada to be the 51st state, yet people are acting like he’s betrayed the country.

Here’s the thing: It’s not the hardworking men and women in the U.S. or Canada that are causing the problems between our two nations, not by a long shot…it’s the politicians, the ones in power making the decisions. So why are fans booing American hockey players? Why is Gretzky, a man who’s done more for Canadian hockey than just about anyone, suddenly being scrutinized like he’s a traitor?

It’s disappointing to see where things are heading. Canada is facing real issues…our economy, healthcare system, and leadership all need attention. But instead of tackling those problems, people are getting riled up over who someone takes a photo with. Shouldn’t we be focusing on what actually matters? Makes me shake my head in wonder.

Now the truth of the matter is…Gretzky has always been a private guy when it comes to politics. So just because he doesn’t shout his beliefs from the rooftops doesn’t mean he’s against Canada. Some folks are quick to judge just because he attended an event or shook a hand. And now there’s even talk of renaming a road in Edmonton that’s been named after him for decades. Really? That’s where our priorities are?

You know hockey is supposed to bring people together, not tear them apart. We can’t let politics ruin the spirit of the game. Maybe it’s time to take a step back, stop looking for enemies where there aren’t any, and remember what really makes this country great. It’s not about who we hate…it’s about what we stand for.

What the hell is wrong with folks these days....must be something in the them plastic water bottles???

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

Yes….Canada does a lot for other countries. We always have. But there comes a time when you have to step back and take a real hard look at what’s happening. War in my mind….doesn’t solve anything, and if there’s a way to end this fight between Ukraine and Russia, then for damn sure, someone needs to do it. Enough lives have been lost, and the suffering just keeps piling up. But at the same time, I can’t help but feel like Canada is throwing good money after bad.

Right now, our country is in rough shape. We’re handing out millions…if not more—when we’ve got problems stacking up at home. We need doctors…compassionate ones…because finding proper care is becoming a nightmare. And what about those nursing homes? Remember when COVID made them headline news? Now they’re forgotten, while our seniors struggle. And the homeless crisis keeps growing. Too many issues to count, yet our money keeps flowing overseas like we’ve got an endless supply.

Here’s the hard truth: if we keep giving away what we don’t have, we’re going to end up broke and friendless. And with elections coming up, it’s only making things worse. Promises are being thrown around left and right, money is being tossed at anything that buys votes, and in the end, we’ll be left with nothing but empty words and empty pockets.

I’m not saying don’t help, but there’s a fine line between being generous and being reckless. Canada needs to take care of its own first, because if we keep going down this road, we’ll be the ones needing aid before long. That’s my opinion. Take it for what it’s worth.

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

Some have Emailed me and asked my opinion on this war between Russia and Ukraine.

Actually if I remember correctly I have written a couple article regarding it here on my blog, but for the sake of argument I will write another of what I think has taken place.

Any way—for years, we’ve watched the war in Ukraine unfold, and if we step back and take a good hard look at it, the outcome was never really in question. No matter how much money, military aid, or sanctions were thrown at Russia, the endgame was always going to be the same…Russia coming out ahead. It’s not a matter of opinion; it’s just a harsh reality.

A lot of folks want to paint the situation as one where the West had no choice but to get involved. They argue that standing against Russia was the right thing to do, that Ukraine had to be backed at all costs. But looking at it now, after years of destruction, thousands of deaths, and trillions of dollars spent, was it really the right call? Or did we just prolong the inevitable while making ourselves weaker in the process?

Trump now, whether folks like him or not, at least engaged in conversations with Putin, something that few leaders have dared to do in any meaningful way. the thing is, he didn’t start this war, and now that the U.S. is shifting away from supporting Ukraine, people are quick to blame him. But the truth is, this was always the most likely outcome. The West over-promising things, led Ukraine into believing that NATO and EU membership were on the table, and then left them high and dry when things got tough.

Another thing was that sanctions were supposed to cripple Russia, but did they? Not in the slightest. If anything, I believe that they strengthened Russia by forcing them to adapt, create new economic alliances, and develop their own industries. Meanwhile, we drained our own resources. Canada and the U.S. have spent billions…money that could have been used right here at home for things we actually need. We have a healthcare crisis, a shortage of doctors, seniors struggling to get the care they deserve, and homeless people on the streets. Instead of tackling those problems, we funneled money into a war that, at best, delayed an outcome that was never in doubt.

Now, as Western support for Ukraine dwindles, NATO itself is stepping back from its previous commitments. Leaders who once talked big about standing with Ukraine are suddenly changing their tune, admitting that NATO membership was never a real promise. And Ukraine, left holding the bag, is realizing just how little they actually gained from all this. Their economy is shattered, their people displaced, and their military exhausted.

The idea of peacekeepers is being floated, but let’s be real—without U.S. backing, any security guarantees from Europe are just empty words. And even if peacekeepers do go in, Russia still holds all the cards. They have the military power, the resources, and, most importantly, the nuclear arsenal that prevents the West from taking things further.

Was there ever a way this could have ended differently? Maybe, if diplomacy had been prioritized instead of escalation. But the West wanted to see Russia weakened, and in their attempt to do so, they weakened themselves instead.

Now, the war is winding down, and the media is scrambling to shift the narrative. The reality is sinking in—Ukraine was never going to win, and the West was never going to stay committed indefinitely. The money spent is gone, the lives lost cannot be brought back, and the resources depleted will take years to recover.

It’s a hard truth, but one we need to accept: We didn’t hurt Russia. We only hurt ourselves. And instead of learning from this, we’ll probably do it all over again somewhere else down the road.

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

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Here’s how I see it: it doesn’t matter who steps in to settle the mess between Ukraine and Russia. As far as I’m concerned, if someone can get through to Putin and bring some kind of resolution, that’s the key. So far, no one else has been able to pull it off, so why not let the one person who can do it—whoever that is, take a shot at it?

I’m sure a lot of people don’t like the idea of Trump talking to Putin, but that’s the problem. It’s not about liking the person, or agreeing with everything they’ve done. It’s about getting things done. Trump—or whoever—is doing what others couldn’t, and that’s what matters. If he’s able to make some headway and lay the groundwork for peace, then let him finish it. Once he’s worked through what he can, then the real talks can happen, and the people who matter, like the Ukrainian leaders, can take it from there.

But let’s face it: billions have already been spent on a war that, in my mind, never should’ve happened. Money that will never be returned to the countries that gave it. Lives have been lost, entire cities have been destroyed, and historical buildings are gone. You can’t just forget all that. So why not give someone who has a chance of making a difference the space to do it? If it doesn’t work out, fine. We try something else. But the longer we sit and argue about who should or shouldn’t be involved, the longer this nightmare continues.

So I think we/they should focus on the goal: peace. Whoever can help bring that to the table, let them. And if it’s not enough, well, then, we try again, but with a lot less destruction and a lot more urgency to get it right.

Until The Next Time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive! GW

Only On The Walters Post

With the U.S. slapping tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum, and other goods, there’s a lot of talk about how this will hurt our economy. Many see it as a political move, but I think there’s more to this—something that could actually make Canada stronger in the long run, that is— if we play our cards right.

For years, Canada has relied on the U.S. in many ways, not just for trade, but for a lot of other things too. So while these tariffs sting, it’s not the end of the world. In fact, it might be the wake-up call we need.

Maybe it’s time we stop leaning so heavily on the U.S. and start looking at other countries that can help us grow. But let’s be smart about it—there are some countries we should stay away from, that have their own issues. The thing is, it’s about finding good, reliable partners who share similar values, not just chasing after anyone with a deal.

In truth I believe this could be a great chance for Canada to focus on boosting local industries, building up our own infrastructure, and supporting businesses that are Canadian-made. We’ve got the talent, the resources, and the know-how to stand on our own two feet. So why not take this moment to build up what’s ours and stop being so dependent on one market and others.

However, in saying all that I do realize that in the short-term yes pain might be real for some, but Canada’s always been good at adapting. If we use this as an opportunity to rethink our strategy, we could come out of it stronger, more independent, and better prepared for the future.

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

Only On The Walters Post

Well, folks, it looks like Trump is doing what he does best—getting things done. After a call with Putin, the wheels are turning to put an end to this war in Ukraine. And that’s what the American people voted him in for, isn’t it? To do what needs to be done.

Say what you will about the man, but one thing’s for sure—Putin respects him. And why wouldn’t he? Trump isn’t the kind of guy to be pushed around by anyone, country or otherwise. He stands his ground, makes the tough calls, and doesn’t play the usual political games that so many before him have been caught up in. And if there’s anyone who can wrap this whole mess up, I’d say it’s him.

Now, of course, there are plenty who hate Trump—always have, always will. And here in Canada, we’re seeing our own powers that be trying to paint him as some kind of villain, as if he’s somehow hurting people here. But let’s be honest, he’s just doing what’s right for his country. That’s what he was elected to do, and that’s exactly what he’s doing. Reminds me a lot of a man we had here once—Mike Harris. He was voted in to fix things, to make Ontario strong again, but the powers that be along with others, didn’t like that, did they? Picked on him, tore him down, and got rid of him. Damn shame too, because men like that—men like Trump—aren’t easy to come by.

Now don’t get me wrong, I know Trump isn’t perfect. He’s got his way of doing things that might not be what we’re used to. But you know what? That’s alright. He’s opened a lot of eyes to what’s really going on in the world today, and that’s something to be commended. Sure, some of his ideas raise an eyebrow or two, but let’s not kid ourselves—others before him have done far worse.

And as for all this talk of tariffs and economic shifts, well, maybe Canada needs a wake-up call. Maybe it’s time we start looking after ourselves instead of throwing money around on wasteful spending and taking care of everyone but our own people. If we’ve learned anything from all this, it should be that we need to be stronger, more self-reliant. And maybe, just maybe, that’s the real lesson here.

So say what you want, but I respect the man. He’s doing what needs to be done, and that’s more than I can say for a lot of leaders these days.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Now, I’ve been around long enough to know that words can be tricky. Companies, politicians, and marketers like to play word games, and if you’re not paying attention, you might think you’re buying something Canadian when you’re really just getting a label with a maple leaf slapped on it. So, let’s clear up the nonsense and get to the truth about these so-called “Canadian” products.

“Product of Canada” – The Real Deal

If you see “Product of Canada” on a label, that means nearly everything in that product is from right here in Canada. According to the rules, at least 98% of the ingredients and materials must come from Canada, and the product must be processed here too. That’s as close as you can get to a truly Canadian product.

Example: If you buy a jar of honey labelled “Product of Canada,” that honey came from Canadian bees, tended by Canadian beekeepers, and put in a jar right here at home. That’s the good stuff.

“Made in Canada” – A Bit of a Mixed Bag

Now, “Made in Canada” sounds good, but there’s a catch. Only 51% of the total cost of making that product has to be from Canada. That means a lot of the ingredients or materials could come from other countries, but as long as the final product is put together or processed here, they can slap “Made in Canada” on it.

Example: Let’s say you buy a loaf of bread labelled “Made in Canada.” The wheat might be from the U.S., the yeast from Europe, and the packaging from China—but as long as it’s baked and assembled here, it qualifies. So, it’s not quite as Canadian as you might think.

“Packaged in Canada” – A Sneaky One

Now, here’s where things get real tricky. “Packaged in Canada” means just that—the product was put in a box, bag, or jar here. That’s it. It says nothing about where the ingredients came from. A company could import fruit from Mexico, put it in a plastic tub in Ontario, and call it “Packaged in Canada.” Not exactly what most people would expect when they see Canada on the label.

Example: Ever seen frozen vegetables with a big Canadian flag but no clear statement on where the veggies came from? If it says “Packaged in Canada,” those peas could be from China, India, or who knows where. They were just put in a bag here. And let’s be honest—personally, I don’t care much for anything grown in China or India. I’d rather know my food came from Canadian soil, where I trust the standards and the farming practices.

Why This Matters

A lot of folks not all now a days, want to support Canadian farmers and businesses, especially with all these trade wars and economic ups and downs. But if you’re not paying attention, you might think you’re buying Canadian when you’re really not.

Here’s my advice: always read the labels closely. Look for “Product of Canada” if you want the real deal. “Made in Canada” can be fine, but keep in mind that some of the ingredients could be imported. And if it only says “Packaged in Canada,” take a moment to flip the package over and check where the ingredients actually come from. More often than not, those ingredients are sourced from elsewhere—sometimes even far from Canada. It’s a bit of a loophole, letting companies slap a Canadian label on products that don’t actually meet the standards of what we might expect from homegrown goods. So, don’t just trust the front of the package; the truth is often hidden on the back.

So yea—I’ve seen a lot of tricks in my day, and this one is right up there with the best of them. Don’t let clever marketing fool you. If you want to support Canadian businesses, make sure you know what you’re buying. Keep your money where it matters—right here at home.

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

Elon Musk stirs up strong opinions. Some see him as a visionary pushing humanity forward, while others think he’s a billionaire with too much power. But one thing’s certain—he gets things done. And that’s where the tension lies between him and the powers that be.

Take Ontario’s now-canceled $100 million contract with Starlink. It was meant to bring high-speed internet to 15,000 rural homes and businesses—something that’s been needed for years. But was it a good deal? Not really. The cost was high, and long-term expenses could have made it even worse. The government could have found a cheaper way, but let’s be honest—governments aren’t exactly known for efficiency. Meanwhile, people in remote areas are left waiting, while politicians play their games.

Musk, for all his wealth, isn’t the enemy of the working man. If anything, he’s provided real solutions where governments have dragged their feet. Without Starlink, many folks in rural Canada including myself would still be stuck with slow, unreliable internet. That’s a fact. But at the same time, relying too much on one company for public infrastructure is risky. Eventually, prices go up, and regular people foot the bill.

Ford’s move to cancel the deal may have been political—his way of pushing back against U.S. tariffs—but in doing so, he’s made life harder for those who actually needed the service. Now, with the tariff threat on pause for just 30 days, this whole situation might change again. Will the contract be reconsidered? Will tariffs come back and make things worse? Nothing’s certain, and that’s the real problem—decisions that impact everyday folks keep getting tossed around like political bargaining chips.

The takeaway? Musk isn’t perfect, but he’s filling a gap governments have ignored for too long. Meanwhile, politicians are playing games with decisions that affect real people. One way or another, it’s the working class that ends up paying the price.

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

I’ve been around long enough to see how the world moves in cycles. I’ve seen boom times, recessions, and trade fights that left regular folks scratching their heads and tightening their belts. Now, here we are again—caught in another economic storm, this time thanks to tariffs slapped on Canada by the U.S.

So what does this really mean for the working man? Simple. Prices are going up. Groceries, gas, electronics—you name it. If it’s coming from the U.S., it’s about to cost us more. And if our government fights back with counter-tariffs, expect even more pain at the checkout counter.

Jobs could take a hit, too. Canadian businesses that rely on selling to the U.S. are going to struggle. Some might shut down, some might lay people off. A weaker dollar won’t help either—importing anything is going to cost more, and that’s going to ripple through every industry.

Sounds bad, right? Well, yeah, in the short term, it is. But let’s step back and look at the bigger picture. Maybe—just maybe—this is the slap in the face Canada needs.

For far too long, we’ve depended on other countries for what we should be doing ourselves. We buy American produce instead of growing more of our own. We import steel and computer chips instead of making them here. We’ve allowed entire industries to fade away because it was easier to buy cheap from somewhere else. That’s got to change.

This tariff mess could be the wake-up call we need to get serious about self-reliance. If our government plays it smart, they’ll push for more Canadian manufacturing, farming, and innovation. That means better jobs, stronger industries, and a future where we’re not at the mercy of foreign policies and trade wars.

It won’t happen overnight, and it won’t be easy. But if we start putting our money into Canadian goods and supporting businesses that keep things local, we might come out of this stronger. It’s time to stop depending on everyone else and start making and growing what we need right here at home.

So, yeah, times are about to get tougher. But maybe this is the fire Canada needs to finally stand on its own two feet. Let’s hope we don’t waste the opportunity. GW