The Honourable Andrew Scheer, Leader of Canada’s Conservatives and the Official Opposition, issued a statement, following the release of the Parliamentary Budget Officer’s report on the cost of illegal border crossings to Canadian taxpayers:

“Today’s report, from the Parliamentary Budget Officer, sheds  new  light on the crisis  situation at Canada’s border with the United States that has seen 38,000 people enter Canada illegally since 2017.

“Justin Trudeau’s failure, to address the crisis he has created, has real consequences for Canadians and this report brings those consequences into sharp focus.

“In addition to the social and human  costs  of lengthy delays in the system and ongoing uncertainty for legal asylum seekers, we now know the financial cost to taxpayers. 

“The PBO’s numbers show that the  cost of accommodating  one illegal border crosser is  more than the gross annual income of a Canadian  minimum wage worker.  And by  March 2020, if Justin Trudeau continues to do nothing to address  this crisis, it  will cost Canadians at least $1.1 billion, not including the hundreds of millions in extra  costs to the provinces.

“That’s $1.1 billion of unbudgeted money  that won’t be spent on the priorities of Canadians. Again, this is a failure that has real and direct consequences for Canadians.”
“In the coming days, Conservatives will write  to the Auditor General, to request an investigation into the Trudeau government’s  mismanagement of the illegal border crossing crisis. 

“His failure to secure our borders has  consequences for  Canadians, both in terms of security and cost,  and they deserve to know the total impact of that  failure.”

Hi there, my name is Christine Craig, I am a local resident interested in water conservation and education for future generations.

I currently work as a water and wastewater treatment plant operator/mechanic, with Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA). I have taken part in the OneWater program, OCWA offers to schools, which teaches grade eight students about water and wastewater treatment processes, giving students a perspective on the importance of conserving/protecting our water for future generations. I more recently joined Waterlution, as a volunteer Youth Advisor, on the Great Canoe Journey project.

Waterlution is a non-profit organization, who annually trains and supports a nation-wide Youth Advisory Board (YAB), comprised of young professionals and post-secondary students, who are passionate about water and education regarding it across Canada.

Myself and the other Youth Advisors worked hard over the summer, to develop the school resources, workshops, and timeline for the Great Canoe Journey Program. We were all able to attend a learning retreat in Squamish, BC, to come together, learn, and develop the program. The retreat was a great opportunity to connect with other YABs; as we are spread across Canada and usually interact over various medias.

The Great Canoe Journey is a journey for Canadian youth to explore indigenous education techniques and culture, through the lens of traditional canoes and water. The other youth advisors and myself are working directly with school teams, to help students, and teachers, incorporate indigenous education into their curriculum.

Along with developing and launching the program, myself and other Youth Advisor volunteers have been working hard on creating some exciting products, for a crowdfunding campaign, to support our education programs! The crowdfunding campaign has just begun. Youth Advisors are working to raise $5000 that can help cover the costs associated with delivering water workshops throughout Canada, and cover the cost of producing our book and calendar. Just in time for the holidays! These are great, local, sustainable products for the water lover on your list!

I took on the role of the calendar coordinator for the crowdfunding campaign. The culturally informative 2019 water calendar, with photos of water bodies from across Canada and the traditional territories these water bodies belong to, will teach you how to say "water" in a different Indigenous language, each month. Available in English and French, and printed on eco-friendly paper.

BC Youth Advisory Board have written a beautiful Children’s Book: which shares eight adventurous water stories, each features real water-bodies and facts; some stories are fictional, and some are inspired by the author's own experiences and adventures! The seven authors are volunteer members of Waterlution’s Youth Advisory Board.

Check out the crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo.com, search “Adventures with Watersnake - A children's book” to find information on authors, myself and to contribute.

This season is filled with adjustments. Like the last minute winterizing of our homes, keeping the lane clear of snow, putting up the Christmas lights, setting up the tree (if you celebrate with one), and buying those well thought-out gifts for your loved ones, just to name a few.

When families get together, sometimes there are expectations of memorable moments, hoping, “This year, our family will get along better than ever, and we will build a memory that’s perfect, the one to cherish the rest of our lives.” Hokey mackerel, that’s a lot of pressure to put on a few gatherings!

The memories of loving moments now gone, of those who are no longer with us, who have passed from this life or moved on in it, can sometimes evoke feelings of heartache, in those left behind. Unrealized expectations, in family relationships, or progress in career or life, can leave one feeling like they are not measuring up. The losses and confusions of the past, can inject tension at family gatherings. Ironically, during this Season of Thanksgiving, people need all kinds of special consideration, but all too often this goes unaddressed, in lieu of tinsel and twinkle.

But what if a loved one, or two, or a whole family has had there fair share of let downs or losses? Be they family changes, losing job security, or health struggles. These can unleash significant strain on those directly effected, or on those close by.

Let’s take another look at what this holiday is supposed to be about. Christmas is a commemoration of an unlimited life: Christ’s; one with the capacity to change all strife, inwardly, to a better existence. God came to our world directly, to give the problems in this reality a checkmate.

Instead, many have taken this gift of life and laden it with the pursuit of the hyper perfect gift, experience, or image boost, yet He came to bring dignity to all who would receive it.

Christ laid aside His Divinity to come as a true human being, removing the oppression of class distinction. He was born to a quaint Jewish couple, who, at the time were without lodging. His first breath was filled with the pungent ammonia of barnyard manure. Let’s say, he could relate to the homeless.

He respected civil and religious law, yet enables those who trust in Him to go beyond both, to the motivation they intended to express. Love for ones’ fellow human beings, even to the point of protecting them from themselves, ultimately flows from a true relationship with our Loving God.

We could go on and on, to things like anti-ageism, protection of children, healthcare, women’s liberation and gender equality, with respect for family relationships and their vital roles; dignity for the value of every life and it’s healthy function.

So many search, within the busyness of the season, for the things that will make up for all the neglect they engender throughout the year. Ironically, this time could be used to lay aside wounds and grudges, to let go of guilt and “told-you-so’s”, and the intolerance of weakness, to give everyone a break. This is an opportunity to spend real time together; no rush, no agenda, no schedule or pressure, just grace upon grace.

This season, before we gather with family and friends, let’s prepare our hearts to spend time, infused with genuine warmth not just clock watching, or toe tapping tolerance, lets be ready to offer listening ears, words of trust and hope, helping hands, gentle, appropriate touch, and real consideration of another’s condition or circumstances. Maybe, be the kindness we needed someone to be to us, even if that never happened; let’s spread it around!

And when you’re out there, and see someone in the cold, offer them a sandwich, a warm cup of tea, some conversation, and maybe give them a ride to a safe place to stay. What’s in it for you? The rewards are not the issue, but the gift is way more than you think you’re offering, to a life that needs.
Grace. Happy Seasoning.

Grace.
Happy
Seasoning.

“Today, we were pleased to welcome Premier Doug Ford as keynote speaker at OREA’s Ontario Realtor Party Conference. While speaking to over 400 real estate industry professionals, Premier Ford promised to continue to work to remove the barriers to home ownership, and re-iterated that the government is ready to do their part to help Ontarians find an affordable place to call home.

We look forward to being a key advisor as the Ford Government finalizes the Housing Supply Action Plan to provide solutions to make home ownership more affordable for Ontario families.

Realtors from across the province are in Toronto today, meeting with the provincial government and pushing for legislative changes that will improve the home buying and selling experience for Ontarians. We want Ontarians to feel safe and confident when making the biggest investment of their lives.

We want home buyers and sellers to know, that when they choose to work with an Ontario Realtor on the most important purchase of their lives, that they are working with the best.

Earlier this year, we produced a report that includes 37 recommendations for raising professional standards. And now, today and tomorrow, we’re meeting face-to-face with MPPs to continue the conversation and advocate for these important changes, which benefit consumers across the province, in order to ensure they are enshrined in legislation.”

Tim Hudak, CEO for the Ontario Real Estate Association

I have noticed a trend in greater public sector bargaining that distorts the collective bargaining process.

Knowing that eventually the government will enact back-to-work legislation, the employer can simply stonewall and push the union into a strike, then blame the union for the disruption. The government can then step in, and, wringing their hands for good show, "reluctantly" impose terms favourable to the employer. It's a cynical disregard for workers and Charter rights.

Sincerely
Louis Bertrand, Blackstock ON

It's been a really wet week, and although some things may go better when the roads are dry, it certainly could be worse.

The “Season of Thanksgiving”, which starts in late September early October, comprises of Armistice/Remembrance Day and Thanksgiving Day, counting our blessings for a good harvest.

But it continues, and some, who are 'plan ahead people' may include Black Friday sales as a relief to the costs and pressure of upcoming Christmas buys, and if taken slowly, spacing purchases out may ease the money stress; huh, wise people, they can enjoy the experience as a more reflective one, considering the ones they are giving to, instead of being drawn into the financial clamour and frenzy so many experience.

And, oh yes, Christmas season itself, if taken on it's actual merit, as a Celebration of a Giving Life, is unendingly wonderful, then we have, on through to New Years and the spring to come. When looked at in the right light, what a wonderful onslaught of reasons to be thankful.

I've been watching my neighbours lately and I want to thank God for the generous heart they share, returning dogs, who have breached the yard boundaries, to their neighbours, many times with a smile and conversations ending in thanks and warm “see ya laters”, others taking in the blue bins and garbage cans for those who are at work, once the hard working collectors come and gather their contents. Others who pick up escaped debris from those same bins without complaint. There are those who, like when the snow hit earlier this month, help to clear the laneways of those who can no longer do it easily themselves or mostly without remuneration. For money or not, it's an exchange of grace and favour, like when they similarly help with their lawns in the summer. Occasionally this selflessness spills over through others helping a neighbour to re-shingle their leaky roof. That's no small task and yet it's often done for lunches, some cold ice tea, or whatever the preference.

I know many won't acknowledge or even recognize the gentle nudge of God, prompting them to act in this manner, and others would try to chalk it up to some over inflated ego stroke to give credit to those who made the effort, in hopes to vicariously participate for being a human being, but I believe this is a betrayal of those who are moved to respond to need in the lives of others. When asked, almost all would say it was no big deal, or even be uncomfortable for being asked about the reasons behind what motivates them.

The truth is selfless acts are not done as a score keeping measure, and giving public acknowledgement of them almost steals the pure glow one receives from a loving God for doing these things selflessly. The Bible says, “If you receive your reward from mankind, you lose your reward from God.” And well, I'd much rather experience a “Well done” contribution to my life, from the Almighty source of Life, then a temporary pat on the back from those around. I recognize, God's affirmation sometimes comes through other people, mostly privately, intimately, and genuinely. Sometimes anonymous, usually no pomp, or ceremony, just genuine gratefulness of heart. Often left unspoken. But those who are skilled in listening for these promptings to acts of kindness, can also see the change imparted to the life that's reached, and that is it's own reward.

For these hearts, for these souls, for the kindness that rules their lives, I am overwhelmed and very thankful. This motivates me to thank a Loving God and breathe up a prayer of protection for a life like this and all the lives that need their touch. If I ever miss this when it's happening, I know there are others who are moved the same way, and pray gratefully also, and in their prayers they ask God to give me eyes to see the Love expressed through others, so I can always be thankful.

In this season, at least from now, through Christmas, until New Years, there are plenty of people, moments, and opportunities, to live thankful in relation to. So let's choose to be a Blessing. Let's try that on for size and see if it doesn't transform your winter blahs into a stream of co-working with God, and warmth in the lives around.
Happy Seasoning

On behalf of the Port Perry Legion Br. 419 we would like to thank the Standard Newspaper for your extensive, compassionate coverage and support of Remembrance week and the Poppy Campaign, and to the people of Scugog Township.

A Sincere Thank you,
from the
Port Perry Legion
Branch 419
Poppy Committee
"We Will Remember Them"

Yesterday, I had the uncomfortable task of agreeing with everyone, that, during morning lane swim, the Port Perry High School swim team [had] use of half the Uxbridge pool, [and it] was not right.

The usual morning swim [had] adults crammed into the remainder of the pool, at one point we were 12 in one lane.  Luckily no accidents. What message does this send to our youth? 

It is time Port Perry council streamline the bureaucracy, simplify processes and invest in the community.

Ivo Finotti
Port Perry

Has anyone noticed the influx of illegal Pit Bull Breeds (American pit bull terrier, Staffordshire terrier, American Staffordshire terrier, American Bully) in Port Perry? If you are up to date on the breed, you have noticed.

Pit Bull Breeds are illegal in Ontario, many cities across Canada, and 32 countries in the world, and yet they keep coming up from the US to our small towns. They hope they will fall under the radar while the owners tell us “OH, It’s a Lab/Boxer cross.”

US shelters are overloaded with them. While this dangerous dog breed swells all our tax dollars, in shelters, and OHIP charges for health care. Other dogs with lots of potential are being euthanized to make room for them. Now WE have to deal with, the US overpopulation problem, and the lobbyists that have money, that we could only imagine to match.

Pit bulls are responsible for 50% of killing and mauling their own family members. If you include family pets and farm animals it goes up to 95%. Does that sound like it is, “HOW THEY WERE RAISED”? Who would raise their Pit Bull to remove the face from their child?

How do we get this Breed Specific Regulation to be enforced? Animal Control says “OH, it’s up to the veterinarians to label the Breed.” Then the Vets mislabel them because they don’t want to lose the business of fixing Fido, who just got mauled by the Pit bull next door.

I don’t know if Animal Control takes an oath but Vets do. They took an OATH to PUBLIC SAFETY…..We want that OATH fulfilled…….Tell your Vet that we need their help to keep us all safe. WHEN a mauling or attack happens, Animal Control and Vets will be culpable…

Judy MacDonald

Operation Scugog’s annual Christmas Campaign is well under way. Food, gift and toy donation boxes can be found at several locations in Port Perry including BMO, Canadian Tire, Emmerson Insurance, Foodland, Gus Brown, McDonald’s, PP Print, Royal Bank, Scotia Bank, Shoppers Drug Mart, Vos Independent, and Walmart. Don’t forget our teens when donating. Suggested teen gifts include Bluetooth speakers, headphones, memory sticks, toiletries, make-up, gloves, scarves, PJ’s and gift cards.

Sandy’s hoodie drive is up to 46 so far. New hoodies may be dropped off at Focus on Scugog, 188 Mary St, Port Perry, until December 13th. These warm hoodies are for our single people and couples, and are always well received as Christmas gifts.. As Sandy says, “a new hoodie is like a warm hug with a hood attached”.

Financial donations and gift cards can be dropped off at the Food Bank, open Wednesday from 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., located in the school portable beside Victory Christian Centre. Cheques should be made payable to Operation Scugog, Box 353, Port Perry, L9L 1A4.

If you are interested in sponsoring a family this Christmas or learning more about what this involves, please contact Kathy Payne-Mercer at 905-985-2412 or at mercer@powergate.ca.

For more information, please contact Karen Teed 905-985-4899.

Thank you to our great community for your continuing support.