#adrianquijano — Public Fediverse posts

INJUNCTION FILED AGAINST JD DEVELOPMENT ENTITIES

On May 11, 2026, five statements of claim were filed against both the Elora and Blair House groups owned by Julia Zhang and her JD Development company. Two statements of claim were filed by Century Church, Benton Corp. and Aurelia Innovation Consulting. Rez-One, First Investment Ltd. and Husheng Development Ltd. all submitted claims as well. 

The lawsuits concern an alleged fraudulent invoice […]

BOLO TIE LINE IS CREATING QUEER-FRIENDLY DANCING SPACES

On July 18, 2026, Bolo Tie Line led attendees in a dance at Willow River Park. Bolo Tie Line is a queer country line dancing group that hosts masked events in the Waterloo Region.  

Saff Aldred, also known as Saff the Sapphic, was booked as a drag performer for Spurs Night Toronto’s one year anniversary celebration. Spur’s Night is considered the flagship of Canadian queer line […]

BOLO TIE LINE IS CREATING QUEER-FRIENDLY DANCING SPACES

On July 18, 2026, Bolo Tie Line led attendees in a dance at Willow River Park. Bolo Tie Line is a queer country line dancing group that hosts masked events in the Waterloo Region.  

Saff Aldred, also known as Saff the Sapphic, was booked as a drag performer for Spurs Night Toronto’s one year anniversary celebration. Spur’s Night is considered the flagship of Canadian queer line […]

BOLO TIE LINE IS CREATING QUEER-FRIENDLY DANCING SPACES

On July 18, 2026, Bolo Tie Line led attendees in a dance at Willow River Park. Bolo Tie Line is a queer country line dancing group that hosts masked events in the Waterloo Region.  

Saff Aldred, also known as Saff the Sapphic, was booked as a drag performer for Spurs Night Toronto’s one year anniversary celebration. Spur’s Night is considered the flagship of Canadian queer line […]

BOLO TIE LINE IS CREATING QUEER-FRIENDLY DANCING SPACES

On July 18, 2026, Bolo Tie Line led attendees in a dance at Willow River Park. Bolo Tie Line is a queer country line dancing group that hosts masked events in the Waterloo Region.  

Saff Aldred, also known as Saff the Sapphic, was booked as a drag performer for Spurs Night Toronto’s one year anniversary celebration. Spur’s Night is considered the flagship of Canadian queer line […]

ON CELEBRATING PRIDE WITH COMMUNITY

From the first demonstrations taking place in Ottawa and Vancouver in 1971 to Toronto Pride in 2026, the celebration of Pride has changed in many ways. This has sparked much conversation in the 2SLGBTQ+ community both online and in person.  

“I want to see our whole community there, I want to see people with disabilities there. I want to see people of all the colors that we have, and […]

REGION REMOVES COMMUNITY GARDENS, RESIDENTS CONFUSED

On May 20, 2026, the Region of Waterloo removed the community garden beds from the front yards of 60 Paulander Dr., a subsidized housing complex. In a statement made to CTV News, they cite infrastructure issues as the main reason why the garden boxes had to be removed. The residents are low-income, have disabilities and/or are immigrants who relied on these gardens for food.   

The garden […]

KW TRANS LIBRARY OFFERS ACCESSIBLE RESOURCES FOR GENDER-AFFIRMING CARE FOR FOLKS IN TRANSITION

The KW Trans Library is a free resource for sharing, trading and borrowing supplies for trans healthcare. Supplies include post-surgical binders, mastectomy pillows, lap pillows and more.   

“I work in gender-affirming care too, so I do lots of the medical side of surgical referrals. Seeing how folks were needing supplies or needing to buy pretty expensive supplies, kind of […]

KW TRANS LIBRARY OFFERS ACCESSIBLE RESOURCES FOR GENDER-AFFIRMING CARE FOR FOLKS IN TRANSITION

The KW Trans Library is a free resource for sharing, trading and borrowing supplies for trans healthcare. Supplies include post-surgical binders, mastectomy pillows, lap pillows and more.   

“I work in gender-affirming care too, so I do lots of the medical side of surgical referrals. Seeing how folks were needing supplies or needing to buy pretty expensive supplies, kind of […]

KW TRANS LIBRARY OFFERS ACCESSIBLE RESOURCES FOR GENDER-AFFIRMING CARE FOR FOLKS IN TRANSITION

The KW Trans Library is a free resource for sharing, trading and borrowing supplies for trans healthcare. Supplies include post-surgical binders, mastectomy pillows, lap pillows and more.   

“I work in gender-affirming care too, so I do lots of the medical side of surgical referrals. Seeing how folks were needing supplies or needing to buy pretty expensive supplies, kind of […]

KW TRANS LIBRARY OFFERS ACCESSIBLE RESOURCES FOR GENDER-AFFIRMING CARE FOR FOLKS IN TRANSITION

The KW Trans Library is a free resource for sharing, trading and borrowing supplies for trans healthcare. Supplies include post-surgical binders, mastectomy pillows, lap pillows and more.   

“I work in gender-affirming care too, so I do lots of the medical side of surgical referrals. Seeing how folks were needing supplies or needing to buy pretty expensive supplies, kind of […]

WILLOW RIVER COMMUNITY LAND TRUST

On Apr. 17, 2026, eight downtown Kitchener non-profits came together in solidarity to incorporate the Willow River Community Land Trust (WRCLT). These are: the Willow River Centre, Community Justice Initiatives (CJI), Social Development Centre (SDC), Civic Hub Waterloo Region, SHORE Centre, Inter Arts Matrix, MT Space, Spectrum and Kind Minds Family Wellness.  

“Our vision is for this […]

WILLOW RIVER COMMUNITY LAND TRUST

On Apr. 17, 2026, eight downtown Kitchener non-profits came together in solidarity to incorporate the Willow River Community Land Trust (WRCLT). These are: the Willow River Centre, Community Justice Initiatives (CJI), Social Development Centre (SDC), Civic Hub Waterloo Region, SHORE Centre, Inter Arts Matrix, MT Space, Spectrum and Kind Minds Family Wellness.  

“Our vision is for this […]

WILLOW RIVER COMMUNITY LAND TRUST

On Apr. 17, 2026, eight downtown Kitchener non-profits came together in solidarity to incorporate the Willow River Community Land Trust (WRCLT). These are: the Willow River Centre, Community Justice Initiatives (CJI), Social Development Centre (SDC), Civic Hub Waterloo Region, SHORE Centre, Inter Arts Matrix, MT Space, Spectrum and Kind Minds Family Wellness.  

“Our vision is for this […]

WILLOW RIVER COMMUNITY LAND TRUST

On Apr. 17, 2026, eight downtown Kitchener non-profits came together in solidarity to incorporate the Willow River Community Land Trust (WRCLT). These are: the Willow River Centre, Community Justice Initiatives (CJI), Social Development Centre (SDC), Civic Hub Waterloo Region, SHORE Centre, Inter Arts Matrix, MT Space, Spectrum and Kind Minds Family Wellness.  

“Our vision is for this […]

PUSHING BACK AGAINST PRIVATIZATION

On Apr. 25, 2026, members of the Waterloo Health Coalition (WHC) organized a rally hosted in Uptown Waterloo Square at 12 p.m. The demonstrations were the first in a planned series of protests across Ontario. Hundreds of rally members called attention to the slow privatization of Ontario’s healthcare system and took a firm stand against it.   

“I got into politics because I know we […]

PUSHING BACK AGAINST PRIVITIZATION

On Apr. 25, 2026, members of the Waterloo Health Coalition (WHC) organized a rally hosted in Uptown Waterloo Square at 12 p.m. The demonstrations were the first in a planned series of protests across Ontario. Hundreds of rally members called attention to the slow privatization of Ontario’s healthcare system and took a firm stand against it.   

“I got into politics because I know we […]

PUSHING BACK AGAINST PRIVITIZATION

On Apr. 25, 2026, members of the Waterloo Health Coalition (WHC) organized a rally hosted in Uptown Waterloo Square at 12 p.m. The demonstrations were the first in a planned series of protests across Ontario. Hundreds of rally members called attention to the slow privatization of Ontario’s healthcare system and took a firm stand against it.   

“I got into politics because I know we […]

LONGHOUSE LABS EXTENDS BANGISHIMO’S BUCK SKIN NAKED

On Jan. 19, 2026, Bangishimo’s Buck Skin Naked photography exhibit debuted at Longhouse Labs (LLabs)., featuring portraits spotlighting Indigenous and Afro-Indigenous bodies. The showing for Buck Skin Naked was extended until Apr. 11, 2026. Bangishimo is planning to shift into working on a book later this year, a collection of their photography over the years.  

“We don’t see […]

UNDERDOG STEPS UP PERFORMANCE TEAMS, COMPETES IN CALGARY

The Underdog Dance Corp. is Waterloo Region’s first beginner-focused adult dance studio. They introduced a more intensive training regimen for their performance team earlier this year, including strength and flexibility training in a second studio in Uptown Waterloo.   

“It’s just the consistency and the hard work to train the body to do it, and you literally practice showing up for yourself fully,” Emily Peat, the director of the Underdog studio, said.   

The studio sent its competitive teams to the Calgary International Salsa Congress from Mar. 26 to Mar. 30, 2026, which featured salsa and bachata dancers from around the world, as well as local professionals and troupes from all over North America. Quinn Vandenheuvel and Emily Dodsworth placed second in the amateur heated bachata division. Peat and Jorge Pablos placed first in the professional bachata heated division. Peat and Phil Roy placed second in the professional salsa showcase division. Bani Singh placed third in the professional-amateur (pro-am) open showcase division with Phil Roy.  

There are 13 students in three teams, who competed. The Bachata Partner amateur team, the Bachata Ladies Styling pro-am team and the Salsa Shines pro-am team. All teams were trained to compete in amateur categories.  

“It all kind of comes down to that in the end. If we teach good fundamentals to people right, then we’ll succeed with our students. And they’ll succeed, whether it’s in our class or out on the dance floor,” Phil Roy, the Experience Manager at Underdog and an instructor, said.  

The team’s six-hour training regimen has included strength training, flexibility training and acro training alongside running through their dance routines. The conditioning, cross-training and technique work help make sure the dancers are prepared for competition.   

“They’re low stakes, relatively—if you win a dance competition, whatever. But you practice discipline. You practice being there for yourself. You practice, ‘how can I react in moments of high stress?’,” Peat said.  

Many of the dancers also competed in “heats”, which require them to improvise for one and a half minutes to a random song within their registered category and style.   

“Because everyone’s relying on everybody else, to make sure that everybody comes away from the competition with a good experience. So, it does take that the group effort to achieve a shared goal,” Victoria Giampaolo, an Underdog student and team captain, said.  

In the week leading up to the Calgary International Salsa Congress, the students are performing in front of their peers periodically in the studio.   

The Calgary congress is one of many competitions that the Underdog Dance Corp. are planning to participate in this year—other cities include Montreal and Toronto.   

“[Competition] really brings the social aspect of dance to the front in a way that a showcase team doesn’t as much. So I really like that. It makes me push myself,” Giampaolo said. 

UNDERDOG STEPS UP PERFORMANCE TEAMS, COMPETES IN CALGARY

The Underdog Dance Corp. is Waterloo Region’s first beginner-focused adult dance studio. They introduced a more intensive training regimen for their performance team earlier this year, including strength and flexibility training in a second studio in Uptown Waterloo.   

“It’s just the consistency and the hard work to train the body to do it, and you literally practice showing up for yourself fully,” Emily Peat, the director of the Underdog studio, said.   

The studio sent its competitive teams to the Calgary International Salsa Congress from Mar. 26 to Mar. 30, 2026, which featured salsa and bachata dancers from around the world, as well as local professionals and troupes from all over North America. Quinn Vandenheuvel and Emily Dodsworth placed second in the amateur heated bachata division. Peat and Jorge Pablos placed first in the professional bachata heated division. Peat and Phil Roy placed second in the professional salsa showcase division. Bani Singh placed third in the professional-amateur (pro-am) open showcase division with Phil Roy.  

There are 13 students in three teams, who competed. The Bachata Partner amateur team, the Bachata Ladies Styling pro-am team and the Salsa Shines pro-am team. All teams were trained to compete in amateur categories.  

“It all kind of comes down to that in the end. If we teach good fundamentals to people right, then we’ll succeed with our students. And they’ll succeed, whether it’s in our class or out on the dance floor,” Phil Roy, the Experience Manager at Underdog and an instructor, said.  

The team’s six-hour training regimen has included strength training, flexibility training and acro training alongside running through their dance routines. The conditioning, cross-training and technique work help make sure the dancers are prepared for competition.   

“They’re low stakes, relatively—if you win a dance competition, whatever. But you practice discipline. You practice being there for yourself. You practice, ‘how can I react in moments of high stress?’,” Peat said.  

Many of the dancers also competed in “heats”, which require them to improvise for one and a half minutes to a random song within their registered category and style.   

“Because everyone’s relying on everybody else, to make sure that everybody comes away from the competition with a good experience. So, it does take that the group effort to achieve a shared goal,” Victoria Giampaolo, an Underdog student and team captain, said.  

In the week leading up to the Calgary International Salsa Congress, the students are performing in front of their peers periodically in the studio.   

The Calgary congress is one of many competitions that the Underdog Dance Corp. are planning to participate in this year—other cities include Montreal and Toronto.   

“[Competition] really brings the social aspect of dance to the front in a way that a showcase team doesn’t as much. So I really like that. It makes me push myself,” Giampaolo said. 

UNDERDOG STEPS UP PERFORMANCE TEAMS, COMPETES IN CALGARY

The Underdog Dance Corp. is Waterloo Region’s first beginner-focused adult dance studio. They introduced a more intensive training regimen for their performance team earlier this year, including strength and flexibility training in a second studio in Uptown Waterloo.   

“It’s just the consistency and the hard work to train the body to do it, and you literally practice showing up for yourself fully,” Emily Peat, the director of the Underdog studio, said.   

The studio sent its competitive teams to the Calgary International Salsa Congress from Mar. 26 to Mar. 30, 2026, which featured salsa and bachata dancers from around the world, as well as local professionals and troupes from all over North America. Quinn Vandenheuvel and Emily Dodsworth placed second in the amateur heated bachata division. Peat and Jorge Pablos placed first in the professional bachata heated division. Peat and Phil Roy placed second in the professional salsa showcase division. Bani Singh placed third in the professional-amateur (pro-am) open showcase division with Phil Roy.  

There are 13 students in three teams, who competed. The Bachata Partner amateur team, the Bachata Ladies Styling pro-am team and the Salsa Shines pro-am team. All teams were trained to compete in amateur categories.  

“It all kind of comes down to that in the end. If we teach good fundamentals to people right, then we’ll succeed with our students. And they’ll succeed, whether it’s in our class or out on the dance floor,” Phil Roy, the Experience Manager at Underdog and an instructor, said.  

The team’s six-hour training regimen has included strength training, flexibility training and acro training alongside running through their dance routines. The conditioning, cross-training and technique work help make sure the dancers are prepared for competition.   

“They’re low stakes, relatively—if you win a dance competition, whatever. But you practice discipline. You practice being there for yourself. You practice, ‘how can I react in moments of high stress?’,” Peat said.  

Many of the dancers also competed in “heats”, which require them to improvise for one and a half minutes to a random song within their registered category and style.   

“Because everyone’s relying on everybody else, to make sure that everybody comes away from the competition with a good experience. So, it does take that the group effort to achieve a shared goal,” Victoria Giampaolo, an Underdog student and team captain, said.  

In the week leading up to the Calgary International Salsa Congress, the students are performing in front of their peers periodically in the studio.   

The Calgary congress is one of many competitions that the Underdog Dance Corp. are planning to participate in this year—other cities include Montreal and Toronto.   

“[Competition] really brings the social aspect of dance to the front in a way that a showcase team doesn’t as much. So I really like that. It makes me push myself,” Giampaolo said. 

UNDERDOG STEPS UP PERFORMANCE TEAMS, COMPETES IN CALGARY

The Underdog Dance Corp. is Waterloo Region’s first beginner-focused adult dance studio. They introduced a more intensive training regimen for their performance team earlier this year, including strength and flexibility training in a second studio in Uptown Waterloo.   

“It’s just the consistency and the hard work to train the body to do it, and you literally practice showing up for yourself fully,” Emily Peat, the director of the Underdog studio, said.   

The studio sent its competitive teams to the Calgary International Salsa Congress from Mar. 26 to Mar. 30, 2026, which featured salsa and bachata dancers from around the world, as well as local professionals and troupes from all over North America. Quinn Vandenheuvel and Emily Dodsworth placed second in the amateur heated bachata division. Peat and Jorge Pablos placed first in the professional bachata heated division. Peat and Phil Roy placed second in the professional salsa showcase division. Bani Singh placed third in the professional-amateur (pro-am) open showcase division with Phil Roy.  

There are 13 students in three teams, who competed. The Bachata Partner amateur team, the Bachata Ladies Styling pro-am team and the Salsa Shines pro-am team. All teams were trained to compete in amateur categories.  

“It all kind of comes down to that in the end. If we teach good fundamentals to people right, then we’ll succeed with our students. And they’ll succeed, whether it’s in our class or out on the dance floor,” Phil Roy, the Experience Manager at Underdog and an instructor, said.  

The team’s six-hour training regimen has included strength training, flexibility training and acro training alongside running through their dance routines. The conditioning, cross-training and technique work help make sure the dancers are prepared for competition.   

“They’re low stakes, relatively—if you win a dance competition, whatever. But you practice discipline. You practice being there for yourself. You practice, ‘how can I react in moments of high stress?’,” Peat said.  

Many of the dancers also competed in “heats”, which require them to improvise for one and a half minutes to a random song within their registered category and style.   

“Because everyone’s relying on everybody else, to make sure that everybody comes away from the competition with a good experience. So, it does take that the group effort to achieve a shared goal,” Victoria Giampaolo, an Underdog student and team captain, said.  

In the week leading up to the Calgary International Salsa Congress, the students are performing in front of their peers periodically in the studio.   

The Calgary congress is one of many competitions that the Underdog Dance Corp. are planning to participate in this year—other cities include Montreal and Toronto.   

“[Competition] really brings the social aspect of dance to the front in a way that a showcase team doesn’t as much. So I really like that. It makes me push myself,” Giampaolo said. 

SAFETY SHED OPENS ON 100VIC

On Mar. 15, 2026, 100 Victoria St. (100Vic) encampment celebrated the launch of the Safety Shed. It was erected by the Concerned People on Drug Use, a coalition of community members, drug users, advocates and loved ones of drug users. The grand opening event featured continued building of the shed, pizza, music, passionate speakers and a community-led discussion.  

“The Safety Shed will provide people who use drugs with a focal point where they can access and create programming that deals with the issues they are facing, inducing state attacks on their rights to medical services. It will also provide a warmer, safer place where community members can discuss, explore and strategize about solutions without fear of being stigmatized or criminalized,” the Concerned People on Drug Use said in a joint press release.  

“In fall 2023 we started seeing large quantities of xylazine going into the fentanyl supply, and more encampment residents were having worse experiences using drugs that they thought were unpoisoned, so the need grew,” Julian Ichim, a safety shed activist, said.   

Versions of the Safety Shed in tent form were used on Roos Island and then at 100Vic since the summer of 2022. The Safety Shed is a space where encampment residents can access harm reduction supplies, education and peer support in the community. The labour of many organizers and volunteers went into the building of the safety shed.   

“We have to fight for people, who have basic rights simply because they’re human. Not because we like them, not because we agree with them. Simply because they’re human,” Ichim said.   

The Consumption and Treatment Services (CTS) at 150 Duke St. W. was closed on Mar. 31, 2025, due to Bill 223. It banned CTS sites from operating within 200 metres of certain types of schools and childcare centres. The CTS was co-operated by Sanguen Health Centre and the Region of Waterloo Public Health and Paramedic Services.  

“[The Safety Shed was proposed by] several members of the Alan Ryan People’s Community Defence Brigade with lived and living experience using substances in organized safety tents through the years, and the Safety Shed is also being organized with the Concerned People on Drug Use, a group of drug users and advocates,” Ichim said.   

The shed is in a prominent and accessible space in the encampment, chosen by the residents who will be using it. It will contain various harm reduction supplies, workshops, food and opportunities to learn about their rights.   

“The number of drug poisoning deaths has increased since the CTS was closed and the supply is becoming more toxic with sedatives like medetomidine in the mix. Harm reduction is a serious issue,” Ichim said.   

On Feb. 27, 2026, a community drug alert  was issued in Waterloo Region after 35 suspected drug overdoses and one drug-related death. Fentanyl samples were tested through Sanguen’s drug checking program and found other drugs like sedatives, veterinary tranquilizers and depressants.   

SAFETY SHED OPENS ON 100VIC

On Mar. 15, 2026, 100 Victoria St. (100Vic) encampment celebrated the launch of the Safety Shed. It was erected by the Concerned People on Drug Use, a coalition of community members, drug users, advocates and loved ones of drug users. The grand opening event featured continued building of the shed, pizza, music, passionate speakers and a community-led discussion.  

“The Safety Shed will provide people who use drugs with a focal point where they can access and create programming that deals with the issues they are facing, inducing state attacks on their rights to medical services. It will also provide a warmer, safer place where community members can discuss, explore and strategize about solutions without fear of being stigmatized or criminalized,” the Concerned People on Drug Use said in a joint press release.  

“In fall 2023 we started seeing large quantities of xylazine going into the fentanyl supply, and more encampment residents were having worse experiences using drugs that they thought were unpoisoned, so the need grew,” Julian Ichim, a safety shed activist, said.   

Versions of the Safety Shed in tent form were used on Roos Island and then at 100Vic since the summer of 2022. The Safety Shed is a space where encampment residents can access harm reduction supplies, education and peer support in the community. The labour of many organizers and volunteers went into the building of the safety shed.   

“We have to fight for people, who have basic rights simply because they’re human. Not because we like them, not because we agree with them. Simply because they’re human,” Ichim said.   

The Consumption and Treatment Services (CTS) at 150 Duke St. W. was closed on Mar. 31, 2025, due to Bill 223. It banned CTS sites from operating within 200 metres of certain types of schools and childcare centres. The CTS was co-operated by Sanguen Health Centre and the Region of Waterloo Public Health and Paramedic Services.  

“[The Safety Shed was proposed by] several members of the Alan Ryan People’s Community Defence Brigade with lived and living experience using substances in organized safety tents through the years, and the Safety Shed is also being organized with the Concerned People on Drug Use, a group of drug users and advocates,” Ichim said.   

The shed is in a prominent and accessible space in the encampment, chosen by the residents who will be using it. It will contain various harm reduction supplies, workshops, food and opportunities to learn about their rights.   

“The number of drug poisoning deaths has increased since the CTS was closed and the supply is becoming more toxic with sedatives like medetomidine in the mix. Harm reduction is a serious issue,” Ichim said.   

On Feb. 27, 2026, a community drug alert  was issued in Waterloo Region after 35 suspected drug overdoses and one drug-related death. Fentanyl samples were tested through Sanguen’s drug checking program and found other drugs like sedatives, veterinary tranquilizers and depressants.   

SAFETY SHED OPENS ON 100VIC

On Mar. 15, 2026, 100 Victoria St. (100Vic) encampment celebrated the launch of the Safety Shed. It was erected by the Concerned People on Drug Use, a coalition of community members, drug users, advocates and loved ones of drug users. The grand opening event featured continued building of the shed, pizza, music, passionate speakers and a community-led discussion.  

“The Safety Shed will provide people who use drugs with a focal point where they can access and create programming that deals with the issues they are facing, inducing state attacks on their rights to medical services. It will also provide a warmer, safer place where community members can discuss, explore and strategize about solutions without fear of being stigmatized or criminalized,” the Concerned People on Drug Use said in a joint press release.  

“In fall 2023 we started seeing large quantities of xylazine going into the fentanyl supply, and more encampment residents were having worse experiences using drugs that they thought were unpoisoned, so the need grew,” Julian Ichim, a safety shed activist, said.   

Versions of the Safety Shed in tent form were used on Roos Island and then at 100Vic since the summer of 2022. The Safety Shed is a space where encampment residents can access harm reduction supplies, education and peer support in the community. The labour of many organizers and volunteers went into the building of the safety shed.   

“We have to fight for people, who have basic rights simply because they’re human. Not because we like them, not because we agree with them. Simply because they’re human,” Ichim said.   

The Consumption and Treatment Services (CTS) at 150 Duke St. W. was closed on Mar. 31, 2025, due to Bill 223. It banned CTS sites from operating within 200 metres of certain types of schools and childcare centres. The CTS was co-operated by Sanguen Health Centre and the Region of Waterloo Public Health and Paramedic Services.  

“[The Safety Shed was proposed by] several members of the Alan Ryan People’s Community Defence Brigade with lived and living experience using substances in organized safety tents through the years, and the Safety Shed is also being organized with the Concerned People on Drug Use, a group of drug users and advocates,” Ichim said.   

The shed is in a prominent and accessible space in the encampment, chosen by the residents who will be using it. It will contain various harm reduction supplies, workshops, food and opportunities to learn about their rights.   

“The number of drug poisoning deaths has increased since the CTS was closed and the supply is becoming more toxic with sedatives like medetomidine in the mix. Harm reduction is a serious issue,” Ichim said.   

On Feb. 27, 2026, a community drug alert  was issued in Waterloo Region after 35 suspected drug overdoses and one drug-related death. Fentanyl samples were tested through Sanguen’s drug checking program and found other drugs like sedatives, veterinary tranquilizers and depressants.   

SAFETY SHED OPENS ON 100VIC

On Mar. 15, 2026, 100 Victoria St. (100Vic) encampment celebrated the launch of the Safety Shed. It was erected by the Concerned People on Drug Use, a coalition of community members, drug users, advocates and loved ones of drug users. The grand opening event featured continued building of the shed, pizza, music, passionate speakers and a community-led discussion.  

“The Safety Shed will provide people who use drugs with a focal point where they can access and create programming that deals with the issues they are facing, inducing state attacks on their rights to medical services. It will also provide a warmer, safer place where community members can discuss, explore and strategize about solutions without fear of being stigmatized or criminalized,” the Concerned People on Drug Use said in a joint press release.  

“In fall 2023 we started seeing large quantities of xylazine going into the fentanyl supply, and more encampment residents were having worse experiences using drugs that they thought were unpoisoned, so the need grew,” Julian Ichim, a safety shed activist, said.   

Versions of the Safety Shed in tent form were used on Roos Island and then at 100Vic since the summer of 2022. The Safety Shed is a space where encampment residents can access harm reduction supplies, education and peer support in the community. The labour of many organizers and volunteers went into the building of the safety shed.   

“We have to fight for people, who have basic rights simply because they’re human. Not because we like them, not because we agree with them. Simply because they’re human,” Ichim said.   

The Consumption and Treatment Services (CTS) at 150 Duke St. W. was closed on Mar. 31, 2025, due to Bill 223. It banned CTS sites from operating within 200 metres of certain types of schools and childcare centres. The CTS was co-operated by Sanguen Health Centre and the Region of Waterloo Public Health and Paramedic Services.  

“[The Safety Shed was proposed by] several members of the Alan Ryan People’s Community Defence Brigade with lived and living experience using substances in organized safety tents through the years, and the Safety Shed is also being organized with the Concerned People on Drug Use, a group of drug users and advocates,” Ichim said.   

The shed is in a prominent and accessible space in the encampment, chosen by the residents who will be using it. It will contain various harm reduction supplies, workshops, food and opportunities to learn about their rights.   

“The number of drug poisoning deaths has increased since the CTS was closed and the supply is becoming more toxic with sedatives like medetomidine in the mix. Harm reduction is a serious issue,” Ichim said.   

On Feb. 27, 2026, a community drug alert  was issued in Waterloo Region after 35 suspected drug overdoses and one drug-related death. Fentanyl samples were tested through Sanguen’s drug checking program and found other drugs like sedatives, veterinary tranquilizers and depressants.   

CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH OFFERS SPACE TO CREATE AFFORDABLE HOUSING

On Dec. 31 2025, Christ Lutheran Church proposed to add townhomes to its vacant lot at Anndale Rd. and Lexington Rd. to help move the Waterloo Region out of its current housing crisis. Christ Lutheran Church had a long-held vision for the future use of the site, which included an opportunity to explore new housing options. The proposal to add 57 rental townhomes to its three-acre lot has been put into action, with some challenge from residents.  

“Neighbours and community members have continued to engage with us directly, and the city is also receiving input through its formal channels…We are taking all of this input into account through the ongoing review process of the application with our team and the city,” Carly Forrester, Director of Development and Planning at Kindred Works, said.   

Kindred Works, a Toronto-based rental housing design firm, was engaged to evaluate what could be supported on the portion of the property identified for redevelopment. This work has informed the low-rise residential proposal currently advancing through the zoning process.  

“Some residents have raised concerns about height—the proposal is for two-three storeys, similar to the nearby homes to the north and northeast, and much shorter than the six-storey retirement residence to the south across the street. Other concerns raised include the number of homes, potential impacts on traffic, parking and greenspace,” Forrester said.   

The church has occupied the mostly vacant land since 1974. The plan involves retaining the original church building, while Kindred Works develops around it. Christ Lutheran Church transferred its property to its development partner for a total of two dollars in September 2025.   

“We have also received support for the proposal, including the addition of purpose-built rental housing with non-market and family-sized units, adding much needed housing to the community, the fact the building is designed to be zero-carbon, and the retention of the existing community building,” Forrester said.   

This project aligns with the Region of Waterloo’s Homes for All initiative, which is a part of the Waterloo Region’s 2023-2027 Strategic Plan.  

“The project is still in the zoning process, and the timeline will be shaped by the results of this phase and the municipal review process. We are eager to complete this project as soon as practical to deliver much needed housing to the community,” Forrester said.  

CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH OFFERS SPACE TO CREATE AFFORDABLE HOUSING

On Dec. 31 2025, Christ Lutheran Church proposed to add townhomes to its vacant lot at Anndale Rd. and Lexington Rd. to help move the Waterloo Region out of its current housing crisis. Christ Lutheran Church had a long-held vision for the future use of the site, which included an opportunity to explore new housing options. The proposal to add 57 rental townhomes to its three-acre lot has been put into action, with some challenge from residents.  

“Neighbours and community members have continued to engage with us directly, and the city is also receiving input through its formal channels…We are taking all of this input into account through the ongoing review process of the application with our team and the city,” Carly Forrester, Director of Development and Planning at Kindred Works, said.   

Kindred Works, a Toronto-based rental housing design firm, was engaged to evaluate what could be supported on the portion of the property identified for redevelopment. This work has informed the low-rise residential proposal currently advancing through the zoning process.  

“Some residents have raised concerns about height—the proposal is for two-three storeys, similar to the nearby homes to the north and northeast, and much shorter than the six-storey retirement residence to the south across the street. Other concerns raised include the number of homes, potential impacts on traffic, parking and greenspace,” Forrester said.   

The church has occupied the mostly vacant land since 1974. The plan involves retaining the original church building, while Kindred Works develops around it. Christ Lutheran Church transferred its property to its development partner for a total of two dollars in September 2025.   

“We have also received support for the proposal, including the addition of purpose-built rental housing with non-market and family-sized units, adding much needed housing to the community, the fact the building is designed to be zero-carbon, and the retention of the existing community building,” Forrester said.   

This project aligns with the Region of Waterloo’s Homes for All initiative, which is a part of the Waterloo Region’s 2023-2027 Strategic Plan.  

“The project is still in the zoning process, and the timeline will be shaped by the results of this phase and the municipal review process. We are eager to complete this project as soon as practical to deliver much needed housing to the community,” Forrester said.  

CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH OFFERS SPACE TO CREATE AFFORDABLE HOUSING

On Dec. 31 2025, Christ Lutheran Church proposed to add townhomes to its vacant lot at Anndale Rd. and Lexington Rd. to help move the Waterloo Region out of its current housing crisis. Christ Lutheran Church had a long-held vision for the future use of the site, which included an opportunity to explore new housing options. The proposal to add 57 rental townhomes to its three-acre lot has been put into action, with some challenge from residents.  

“Neighbours and community members have continued to engage with us directly, and the city is also receiving input through its formal channels…We are taking all of this input into account through the ongoing review process of the application with our team and the city,” Carly Forrester, Director of Development and Planning at Kindred Works, said.   

Kindred Works, a Toronto-based rental housing design firm, was engaged to evaluate what could be supported on the portion of the property identified for redevelopment. This work has informed the low-rise residential proposal currently advancing through the zoning process.  

“Some residents have raised concerns about height—the proposal is for two-three storeys, similar to the nearby homes to the north and northeast, and much shorter than the six-storey retirement residence to the south across the street. Other concerns raised include the number of homes, potential impacts on traffic, parking and greenspace,” Forrester said.   

The church has occupied the mostly vacant land since 1974. The plan involves retaining the original church building, while Kindred Works develops around it. Christ Lutheran Church transferred its property to its development partner for a total of two dollars in September 2025.   

“We have also received support for the proposal, including the addition of purpose-built rental housing with non-market and family-sized units, adding much needed housing to the community, the fact the building is designed to be zero-carbon, and the retention of the existing community building,” Forrester said.   

This project aligns with the Region of Waterloo’s Homes for All initiative, which is a part of the Waterloo Region’s 2023-2027 Strategic Plan.  

“The project is still in the zoning process, and the timeline will be shaped by the results of this phase and the municipal review process. We are eager to complete this project as soon as practical to deliver much needed housing to the community,” Forrester said.  

CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH OFFERS SPACE TO CREATE AFFORDABLE HOUSING

On Dec. 31 2025, Christ Lutheran Church proposed to add townhomes to its vacant lot at Anndale Rd. and Lexington Rd. to help move the Waterloo Region out of its current housing crisis. Christ Lutheran Church had a long-held vision for the future use of the site, which included an opportunity to explore new housing options. The proposal to add 57 rental townhomes to its three-acre lot has been put into action, with some challenge from residents.  

“Neighbours and community members have continued to engage with us directly, and the city is also receiving input through its formal channels…We are taking all of this input into account through the ongoing review process of the application with our team and the city,” Carly Forrester, Director of Development and Planning at Kindred Works, said.   

Kindred Works, a Toronto-based rental housing design firm, was engaged to evaluate what could be supported on the portion of the property identified for redevelopment. This work has informed the low-rise residential proposal currently advancing through the zoning process.  

“Some residents have raised concerns about height—the proposal is for two-three storeys, similar to the nearby homes to the north and northeast, and much shorter than the six-storey retirement residence to the south across the street. Other concerns raised include the number of homes, potential impacts on traffic, parking and greenspace,” Forrester said.   

The church has occupied the mostly vacant land since 1974. The plan involves retaining the original church building, while Kindred Works develops around it. Christ Lutheran Church transferred its property to its development partner for a total of two dollars in September 2025.   

“We have also received support for the proposal, including the addition of purpose-built rental housing with non-market and family-sized units, adding much needed housing to the community, the fact the building is designed to be zero-carbon, and the retention of the existing community building,” Forrester said.   

This project aligns with the Region of Waterloo’s Homes for All initiative, which is a part of the Waterloo Region’s 2023-2027 Strategic Plan.  

“The project is still in the zoning process, and the timeline will be shaped by the results of this phase and the municipal review process. We are eager to complete this project as soon as practical to deliver much needed housing to the community,” Forrester said.  

REGIONAL COUNCIL AMENDS BY-LAW TO DEFER POSSESSION OF 100VIC

On Jan. 9, 2026,  the Region of Waterloo council amended By-Law 25-021. This deferred the possession date for the Kitchener transit hub site until Apr. 1, 2026. Metrolinx has advised the Region of Waterloo that it requires the use of 100 Victoria St. N. for its Kitchener Central Transit Hub (KCTH). The first version of the bylaw was designed to have encampment residents off 100Vic by the end of 2025.  The region wants to use the property as a staging area for construction vehicles and equipment for the KCTH, planned to be built at the nearby intersection of King St. and Victoria St. 

The amendment was made to allow residents of 100 Victoria St. N. encampment (100Vic) to find alternative housing options.    

“The offer would include an individual housing plan with appropriate alternative accommodation, social service supports and transportation and storage for up to six months at no cost to the person,” Fiona McCrea, regional solicitor and director of legal services, said.   

An information session for current residents of the 100Vic ran on Jan. 5, 2026, along with a public information and input meeting on Jan. 7, 2026. A summary of these two sessions was included in the appendix of the addendum report.   

“There was support expressed at both sessions for the removal of the monetary penalty and the provision of written offers of alternative accommodation included in the amendments,” McCrea said.   

Across the Waterloo Region, there are 24 known encampments and approximately 50-59 residents in them. However, the 100Vic by-law and its amendment would only affect the residents and the encampment there.  The motion of including a safe-tenting by-law came up on the Jan. 9, 2026, meeting. This would outline the procedures which people are to follow when putting up tents in designated areas deemed suitable by a governing body.   

“Such a protocol exists in other communities in Ontario including Hamilton, London, St. Thomas and the Region of Peel. These are provisions set through a by-law that provides the circumstances and conditions [in] which individuals can tent in the municipality,” Peter Sweeney, Commissioner of Community Services, said.  

Safe tenting by-laws come in one of two forms: one where individuals are given specific locations in which they are permitted to tent. The other outlines where people are not permitted to tent and sets provisions of distance from schools, cemeteries and childcare centers.   

For example, London’s Park and Recreation Area By-Law-PR-2 prohibits people from encroaching on municipally owned lands or erecting fences on municipally owned lands without the written consent of the City. Whereas the Region of Peel’s Encampment Policy Framework and Joint Protocols  explicitly outlines areas where encampments are prohibited. 

“Not one person that spoke last night wanted this amendment. Even though you [the council] might think it would be advantageous to those living in the encampment.” Pam Wolf, Region of Waterloo Councilor, said.  

Wolf wanted the Region of Waterloo council to explore the safe tenting protocols of other municipalities. The motion to explore the safe tenting protocol was defeated by a final vote of 8-8. 

REGIONAL COUNCIL AMENDS BY-LAW TO DEFER POSSESSION OF 100VIC

On Jan. 9, 2026,  the Region of Waterloo council amended By-Law 25-021. This deferred the possession date for the Kitchener transit hub site until Apr. 1, 2026. Metrolinx has advised the Region of Waterloo that it requires the use of 100 Victoria St. N. for its Kitchener Central Transit Hub (KCTH). The first version of the bylaw was designed to have encampment residents off 100Vic by the end of 2025.  The region wants to use the property as a staging area for construction vehicles and equipment for the KCTH, planned to be built at the nearby intersection of King St. and Victoria St. 

The amendment was made to allow residents of 100 Victoria St. N. encampment (100Vic) to find alternative housing options.    

“The offer would include an individual housing plan with appropriate alternative accommodation, social service supports and transportation and storage for up to six months at no cost to the person,” Fiona McCrea, regional solicitor and director of legal services, said.   

An information session for current residents of the 100Vic ran on Jan. 5, 2026, along with a public information and input meeting on Jan. 7, 2026. A summary of these two sessions was included in the appendix of the addendum report.   

“There was support expressed at both sessions for the removal of the monetary penalty and the provision of written offers of alternative accommodation included in the amendments,” McCrea said.   

Across the Waterloo Region, there are 24 known encampments and approximately 50-59 residents in them. However, the 100Vic by-law and its amendment would only affect the residents and the encampment there.  The motion of including a safe-tenting by-law came up on the Jan. 9, 2026, meeting. This would outline the procedures which people are to follow when putting up tents in designated areas deemed suitable by a governing body.   

“Such a protocol exists in other communities in Ontario including Hamilton, London, St. Thomas and the Region of Peel. These are provisions set through a by-law that provides the circumstances and conditions [in] which individuals can tent in the municipality,” Peter Sweeney, Commissioner of Community Services, said.  

Safe tenting by-laws come in one of two forms: one where individuals are given specific locations in which they are permitted to tent. The other outlines where people are not permitted to tent and sets provisions of distance from schools, cemeteries and childcare centers.   

For example, London’s Park and Recreation Area By-Law-PR-2 prohibits people from encroaching on municipally owned lands or erecting fences on municipally owned lands without the written consent of the City. Whereas the Region of Peel’s Encampment Policy Framework and Joint Protocols  explicitly outlines areas where encampments are prohibited. 

“Not one person that spoke last night wanted this amendment. Even though you [the council] might think it would be advantageous to those living in the encampment.” Pam Wolf, Region of Waterloo Councilor, said.  

Wolf wanted the Region of Waterloo council to explore the safe tenting protocols of other municipalities. The motion to explore the safe tenting protocol was defeated by a final vote of 8-8. 

REGIONAL COUNCIL AMENDS BY-LAW TO DEFER POSSESSION OF 100VIC

On Jan. 9, 2026,  the Region of Waterloo council amended By-Law 25-021. This deferred the possession date for the Kitchener transit hub site until Apr. 1, 2026. Metrolinx has advised the Region of Waterloo that it requires the use of 100 Victoria St. N. for its Kitchener Central Transit Hub (KCTH). The first version of the bylaw was designed to have encampment residents off 100Vic by the end of 2025.  The region wants to use the property as a staging area for construction vehicles and equipment for the KCTH, planned to be built at the nearby intersection of King St. and Victoria St. 

The amendment was made to allow residents of 100 Victoria St. N. encampment (100Vic) to find alternative housing options.    

“The offer would include an individual housing plan with appropriate alternative accommodation, social service supports and transportation and storage for up to six months at no cost to the person,” Fiona McCrea, regional solicitor and director of legal services, said.   

An information session for current residents of the 100Vic ran on Jan. 5, 2026, along with a public information and input meeting on Jan. 7, 2026. A summary of these two sessions was included in the appendix of the addendum report.   

“There was support expressed at both sessions for the removal of the monetary penalty and the provision of written offers of alternative accommodation included in the amendments,” McCrea said.   

Across the Waterloo Region, there are 24 known encampments and approximately 50-59 residents in them. However, the 100Vic by-law and its amendment would only affect the residents and the encampment there.  The motion of including a safe-tenting by-law came up on the Jan. 9, 2026, meeting. This would outline the procedures which people are to follow when putting up tents in designated areas deemed suitable by a governing body.   

“Such a protocol exists in other communities in Ontario including Hamilton, London, St. Thomas and the Region of Peel. These are provisions set through a by-law that provides the circumstances and conditions [in] which individuals can tent in the municipality,” Peter Sweeney, Commissioner of Community Services, said.  

Safe tenting by-laws come in one of two forms: one where individuals are given specific locations in which they are permitted to tent. The other outlines where people are not permitted to tent and sets provisions of distance from schools, cemeteries and childcare centers.   

For example, London’s Park and Recreation Area By-Law-PR-2 prohibits people from encroaching on municipally owned lands or erecting fences on municipally owned lands without the written consent of the City. Whereas the Region of Peel’s Encampment Policy Framework and Joint Protocols  explicitly outlines areas where encampments are prohibited. 

“Not one person that spoke last night wanted this amendment. Even though you [the council] might think it would be advantageous to those living in the encampment.” Pam Wolf, Region of Waterloo Councilor, said.  

Wolf wanted the Region of Waterloo council to explore the safe tenting protocols of other municipalities. The motion to explore the safe tenting protocol was defeated by a final vote of 8-8. 

REGIONAL COUNCIL AMENDS BY-LAW TO DEFER POSSESSION OF 100VIC

On Jan. 9, 2026,  the Region of Waterloo council amended By-Law 25-021. This deferred the possession date for the Kitchener transit hub site until Apr. 1, 2026. Metrolinx has advised the Region of Waterloo that it requires the use of 100 Victoria St. N. for its Kitchener Central Transit Hub (KCTH). The first version of the bylaw was designed to have encampment residents off 100Vic by the end of 2025.  The region wants to use the property as a staging area for construction vehicles and equipment for the KCTH, planned to be built at the nearby intersection of King St. and Victoria St. 

The amendment was made to allow residents of 100 Victoria St. N. encampment (100Vic) to find alternative housing options.    

“The offer would include an individual housing plan with appropriate alternative accommodation, social service supports and transportation and storage for up to six months at no cost to the person,” Fiona McCrea, regional solicitor and director of legal services, said.   

An information session for current residents of the 100Vic ran on Jan. 5, 2026, along with a public information and input meeting on Jan. 7, 2026. A summary of these two sessions was included in the appendix of the addendum report.   

“There was support expressed at both sessions for the removal of the monetary penalty and the provision of written offers of alternative accommodation included in the amendments,” McCrea said.   

Across the Waterloo Region, there are 24 known encampments and approximately 50-59 residents in them. However, the 100Vic by-law and its amendment would only affect the residents and the encampment there.  The motion of including a safe-tenting by-law came up on the Jan. 9, 2026, meeting. This would outline the procedures which people are to follow when putting up tents in designated areas deemed suitable by a governing body.   

“Such a protocol exists in other communities in Ontario including Hamilton, London, St. Thomas and the Region of Peel. These are provisions set through a by-law that provides the circumstances and conditions [in] which individuals can tent in the municipality,” Peter Sweeney, Commissioner of Community Services, said.  

Safe tenting by-laws come in one of two forms: one where individuals are given specific locations in which they are permitted to tent. The other outlines where people are not permitted to tent and sets provisions of distance from schools, cemeteries and childcare centers.   

For example, London’s Park and Recreation Area By-Law-PR-2 prohibits people from encroaching on municipally owned lands or erecting fences on municipally owned lands without the written consent of the City. Whereas the Region of Peel’s Encampment Policy Framework and Joint Protocols  explicitly outlines areas where encampments are prohibited. 

“Not one person that spoke last night wanted this amendment. Even though you [the council] might think it would be advantageous to those living in the encampment.” Pam Wolf, Region of Waterloo Councilor, said.  

Wolf wanted the Region of Waterloo council to explore the safe tenting protocols of other municipalities. The motion to explore the safe tenting protocol was defeated by a final vote of 8-8. 

DOG DAYS ARE HERE

On Nov. 14, 2025, I had the honour and pleasure of taking in a foster dog named Charlie. 

I did not make the choice to foster a dog lightly. As someone who grew up with a dog, I knew how much responsibility and time caring for a dog takes.  

I can now confirm that the adage of rescue dogs saving the people that take them in is true.  

Since COVID-19, this seed of loneliness was planted in me, but having Charlie around has helped me regrow my curiosity for life and the great outdoors.  

Charlie is a half German Shephard, half American Dingo. He grew up in Texas and he was left to fend for himself on the streets for about six months before being taken in by a kind lady, who contacted the Dog Rescue Society (DRS). 

The DRS is a foster-based, volunteer-run organization based in Kitchener, and their mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home dogs in need, while creating a supportive community of adopters and fosters. Usually, their foster programs take about three to four months.  

For the first few weeks, he was in what is known as the decompression phase—what he needed most was a quiet, structured and safe place to be.  

I remember our first walk together was around the block outside of my apartment building. He was skittish and anxious, much like me. I felt like maybe I was in over my head, maybe it was too long since I had a dog and I was not equipped to be a good dog parent.  

But when he looked up at me with his hopeful big brown eyes on the elevator ride up to our apartment, I felt like we were in this together.  

For the first few days we were on a strict structured routine of waking up at the same time, eating at the same time and walking at the same time during the day. It was a way to introduce structure to Charlie’s life, especially since his life was turned so completely upside down. The more time has passed the more Charlie’s personality has manifested. He is a confident dog who takes life in stride. Though doubtless he feared me when we first met, he was nothing but cordial to me. He is curious, playful and full of energy for life. All things that a depressed human like me lack sometimes.  

Since the start, we’ve settled into a similar but less rigid routine. Due to some difficulties with mental health issues, having another reason to get out of bed and get some exercise has been a lifesaver. I’m happy I got to help Charlie, and he in turn has helped me quite a lot.  

Charlie is currently up for adoption. If you are interested, check out his profile and others on the DRS website at  thedogrescuesociety.net. 

DOG DAYS ARE HERE

On Nov. 14, 2025, I had the honour and pleasure of taking in a foster dog named Charlie. 

I did not make the choice to foster a dog lightly. As someone who grew up with a dog, I knew how much responsibility and time caring for a dog takes.  

I can now confirm that the adage of rescue dogs saving the people that take them in is true.  

Since COVID-19, this seed of loneliness was planted in me, but having Charlie around has helped me regrow my curiosity for life and the great outdoors.  

Charlie is a half German Shephard, half American Dingo. He grew up in Texas and he was left to fend for himself on the streets for about six months before being taken in by a kind lady, who contacted the Dog Rescue Society (DRS). 

The DRS is a foster-based, volunteer-run organization based in Kitchener, and their mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home dogs in need, while creating a supportive community of adopters and fosters. Usually, their foster programs take about three to four months.  

For the first few weeks, he was in what is known as the decompression phase—what he needed most was a quiet, structured and safe place to be.  

I remember our first walk together was around the block outside of my apartment building. He was skittish and anxious, much like me. I felt like maybe I was in over my head, maybe it was too long since I had a dog and I was not equipped to be a good dog parent.  

But when he looked up at me with his hopeful big brown eyes on the elevator ride up to our apartment, I felt like we were in this together.  

For the first few days we were on a strict structured routine of waking up at the same time, eating at the same time and walking at the same time during the day. It was a way to introduce structure to Charlie’s life, especially since his life was turned so completely upside down. The more time has passed the more Charlie’s personality has manifested. He is a confident dog who takes life in stride. Though doubtless he feared me when we first met, he was nothing but cordial to me. He is curious, playful and full of energy for life. All things that a depressed human like me lack sometimes.  

Since the start, we’ve settled into a similar but less rigid routine. Due to some difficulties with mental health issues, having another reason to get out of bed and get some exercise has been a lifesaver. I’m happy I got to help Charlie, and he in turn has helped me quite a lot.  

Charlie is currently up for adoption. If you are interested, check out his profile and others on the DRS website at  thedogrescuesociety.net. 

DOG DAYS ARE HERE

On Nov. 14, 2025, I had the honour and pleasure of taking in a foster dog named Charlie. 

I did not make the choice to foster a dog lightly. As someone who grew up with a dog, I knew how much responsibility and time caring for a dog takes.  

I can now confirm that the adage of rescue dogs saving the people that take them in is true.  

Since COVID-19, this seed of loneliness was planted in me, but having Charlie around has helped me regrow my curiosity for life and the great outdoors.  

Charlie is a half German Shephard, half American Dingo. He grew up in Texas and he was left to fend for himself on the streets for about six months before being taken in by a kind lady, who contacted the Dog Rescue Society (DRS). 

The DRS is a foster-based, volunteer-run organization based in Kitchener, and their mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home dogs in need, while creating a supportive community of adopters and fosters. Usually, their foster programs take about three to four months.  

For the first few weeks, he was in what is known as the decompression phase—what he needed most was a quiet, structured and safe place to be.  

I remember our first walk together was around the block outside of my apartment building. He was skittish and anxious, much like me. I felt like maybe I was in over my head, maybe it was too long since I had a dog and I was not equipped to be a good dog parent.  

But when he looked up at me with his hopeful big brown eyes on the elevator ride up to our apartment, I felt like we were in this together.  

For the first few days we were on a strict structured routine of waking up at the same time, eating at the same time and walking at the same time during the day. It was a way to introduce structure to Charlie’s life, especially since his life was turned so completely upside down. The more time has passed the more Charlie’s personality has manifested. He is a confident dog who takes life in stride. Though doubtless he feared me when we first met, he was nothing but cordial to me. He is curious, playful and full of energy for life. All things that a depressed human like me lack sometimes.  

Since the start, we’ve settled into a similar but less rigid routine. Due to some difficulties with mental health issues, having another reason to get out of bed and get some exercise has been a lifesaver. I’m happy I got to help Charlie, and he in turn has helped me quite a lot.  

Charlie is currently up for adoption. If you are interested, check out his profile and others on the DRS website at  thedogrescuesociety.net. 

DOG DAYS ARE HERE

On Nov. 14, 2025, I had the honour and pleasure of taking in a foster dog named Charlie. 

I did not make the choice to foster a dog lightly. As someone who grew up with a dog, I knew how much responsibility and time caring for a dog takes.  

I can now confirm that the adage of rescue dogs saving the people that take them in is true.  

Since COVID-19, this seed of loneliness was planted in me, but having Charlie around has helped me regrow my curiosity for life and the great outdoors.  

Charlie is a half German Shephard, half American Dingo. He grew up in Texas and he was left to fend for himself on the streets for about six months before being taken in by a kind lady, who contacted the Dog Rescue Society (DRS). 

The DRS is a foster-based, volunteer-run organization based in Kitchener, and their mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home dogs in need, while creating a supportive community of adopters and fosters. Usually, their foster programs take about three to four months.  

For the first few weeks, he was in what is known as the decompression phase—what he needed most was a quiet, structured and safe place to be.  

I remember our first walk together was around the block outside of my apartment building. He was skittish and anxious, much like me. I felt like maybe I was in over my head, maybe it was too long since I had a dog and I was not equipped to be a good dog parent.  

But when he looked up at me with his hopeful big brown eyes on the elevator ride up to our apartment, I felt like we were in this together.  

For the first few days we were on a strict structured routine of waking up at the same time, eating at the same time and walking at the same time during the day. It was a way to introduce structure to Charlie’s life, especially since his life was turned so completely upside down. The more time has passed the more Charlie’s personality has manifested. He is a confident dog who takes life in stride. Though doubtless he feared me when we first met, he was nothing but cordial to me. He is curious, playful and full of energy for life. All things that a depressed human like me lack sometimes.  

Since the start, we’ve settled into a similar but less rigid routine. Due to some difficulties with mental health issues, having another reason to get out of bed and get some exercise has been a lifesaver. I’m happy I got to help Charlie, and he in turn has helped me quite a lot.  

Charlie is currently up for adoption. If you are interested, check out his profile and others on the DRS website at  thedogrescuesociety.net. 

SHOW LOVE, EVEN ON A BUDGET

Money can be tight sometimes, especially in this economy, making gifts difficult to organize. 

My family also has two birthdays in December, so I am no stranger to trying to scrimp and save to make sure I can show my loved ones how much I care. 

While overconsumption and inflation run rampant, there seems to be a rise in people wanting to make their own gifts. Here’s a list of cheap and homemade gift ideas I turn to every year. Hopefully they also help you to spread the love this holiday season.   

Needle Felting  

This craft uses specifically designed notched needles to form wool into different shapes and designs. The notches tangle the wool fibres and cause them to interlock to form firm structures. This versatile craft is perfect for those on a budget.   

I started needle-felting with the help of a friend over a year ago, and it has turned into a fun hobby that also helps me make fun gifts for friends.   

You can find Ontario roving wool at Flying Squirrel for 15 cents per bundle. And the needles can be purchased online starting at $1.50. You can easily find free patterns online as well.   

Happy felting!   

Crochet and Knitting  

Crocheting and knitting is part of the needlecraft family in which you use a hook to create fabric from loops of yarn. Both can be used to make anything from a blanket to a sweater.   

While this is not a hobby I have participated in yet, I know plenty of people who use fibre arts for gift giving. You can purchase a ball of yarn at Flying Squirrel starting at $2.99.   

Painting  

Who doesn’t love a hand-painted piece of art? Check out any dollar store and stock up on paper, paint and paintbrushes without breaking the bank.   

Something I like to do is called zen-tangles. To create a zen-tangle, paint a simple shape like a triangle or a square in one colour. The point is to be intentional about each line.

It can be very calm and makes for a beautiful piece of artwork. Cutting up the print and making unique cards out of them is sure to brighten up anyone’s holiday.   

Baked goods  

Use the holidays as a way to expand your hobbies or practice tried and true ones. For me, baking is one hobby I like to use when the holidays come rolling in.  

I like baking Filipino treats for my loved ones during the holidays to show them my appreciation. Making food like puto or biko is a fun way to be creative while also putting in a lot of care into the gift. Puto, a steamed rice cake, is very inexpensive to make and requires ingredients you would already have in the pantry like flour and sugar.  

#AdrianQuijano #baking #budget #budgetFriendlyGifts #Christmas #crochet #Hannukah #holiday #homemade #homemadeGifts #KatWex #Knitting #KWANZAA #needleFelting

SHOW LOVE, EVEN ON A BUDGET

Money can be tight sometimes, especially in this economy, making gifts difficult to organize. 

My family also has two birthdays in December, so I am no stranger to trying to scrimp and save to make sure I can show my loved ones how much I care. 

While overconsumption and inflation run rampant, there seems to be a rise in people wanting to make their own gifts. Here’s a list of cheap and homemade gift ideas I turn to every year. Hopefully they also help you to spread the love this holiday season.   

Needle Felting  

This craft uses specifically designed notched needles to form wool into different shapes and designs. The notches tangle the wool fibres and cause them to interlock to form firm structures. This versatile craft is perfect for those on a budget.   

I started needle-felting with the help of a friend over a year ago, and it has turned into a fun hobby that also helps me make fun gifts for friends.   

You can find Ontario roving wool at Flying Squirrel for 15 cents per bundle. And the needles can be purchased online starting at $1.50. You can easily find free patterns online as well.   

Happy felting!   

Crochet and Knitting  

Crocheting and knitting is part of the needlecraft family in which you use a hook to create fabric from loops of yarn. Both can be used to make anything from a blanket to a sweater.   

While this is not a hobby I have participated in yet, I know plenty of people who use fibre arts for gift giving. You can purchase a ball of yarn at Flying Squirrel starting at $2.99.   

Painting  

Who doesn’t love a hand-painted piece of art? Check out any dollar store and stock up on paper, paint and paintbrushes without breaking the bank.   

Something I like to do is called zen-tangles. To create a zen-tangle, paint a simple shape like a triangle or a square in one colour. The point is to be intentional about each line.

It can be very calm and makes for a beautiful piece of artwork. Cutting up the print and making unique cards out of them is sure to brighten up anyone’s holiday.   

Baked goods  

Use the holidays as a way to expand your hobbies or practice tried and true ones. For me, baking is one hobby I like to use when the holidays come rolling in.  

I like baking Filipino treats for my loved ones during the holidays to show them my appreciation. Making food like puto or biko is a fun way to be creative while also putting in a lot of care into the gift. Puto, a steamed rice cake, is very inexpensive to make and requires ingredients you would already have in the pantry like flour and sugar.  

#AdrianQuijano #baking #budget #budgetFriendlyGifts #Christmas #crochet #Hannukah #holiday #homemade #homemadeGifts #KatWex #Knitting #KWANZAA #needleFelting

SHOW LOVE, EVEN ON A BUDGET

Money can be tight sometimes, especially in this economy, making gifts difficult to organize. 

My family also has two birthdays in December, so I am no stranger to trying to scrimp and save to make sure I can show my loved ones how much I care. 

While overconsumption and inflation run rampant, there seems to be a rise in people wanting to make their own gifts. Here’s a list of cheap and homemade gift ideas I turn to every year. Hopefully they also help you to spread the love this holiday season.   

Needle Felting  

This craft uses specifically designed notched needles to form wool into different shapes and designs. The notches tangle the wool fibres and cause them to interlock to form firm structures. This versatile craft is perfect for those on a budget.   

I started needle-felting with the help of a friend over a year ago, and it has turned into a fun hobby that also helps me make fun gifts for friends.   

You can find Ontario roving wool at Flying Squirrel for 15 cents per bundle. And the needles can be purchased online starting at $1.50. You can easily find free patterns online as well.   

Happy felting!   

Crochet and Knitting  

Crocheting and knitting is part of the needlecraft family in which you use a hook to create fabric from loops of yarn. Both can be used to make anything from a blanket to a sweater.   

While this is not a hobby I have participated in yet, I know plenty of people who use fibre arts for gift giving. You can purchase a ball of yarn at Flying Squirrel starting at $2.99.   

Painting  

Who doesn’t love a hand-painted piece of art? Check out any dollar store and stock up on paper, paint and paintbrushes without breaking the bank.   

Something I like to do is called zen-tangles. To create a zen-tangle, paint a simple shape like a triangle or a square in one colour. The point is to be intentional about each line.

It can be very calm and makes for a beautiful piece of artwork. Cutting up the print and making unique cards out of them is sure to brighten up anyone’s holiday.   

Baked goods  

Use the holidays as a way to expand your hobbies or practice tried and true ones. For me, baking is one hobby I like to use when the holidays come rolling in.  

I like baking Filipino treats for my loved ones during the holidays to show them my appreciation. Making food like puto or biko is a fun way to be creative while also putting in a lot of care into the gift. Puto, a steamed rice cake, is very inexpensive to make and requires ingredients you would already have in the pantry like flour and sugar.  

#AdrianQuijano #baking #budget #budgetFriendlyGifts #Christmas #crochet #Hannukah #holiday #homemade #homemadeGifts #KatWex #Knitting #KWANZAA #needleFelting

SPENDING THE HOLIDAYS IN YOUR OWN COMPANY

While the holidays are typically associated with being around friends and family, sometimes it’s also a nice way to spend time with someone you’re around all year long: yourself.   

Having a solo holiday meal at a restaurant may seem like a scene straight out of break-up movie, but there can be many benefits to dining for one: eating alone means only catering to what you want to eat and ensuring you eat at your own pace.   

Here is a list of places around the region where solo dining for the holidays would strike up a cozy vibe.   

Arabella Park  

Located in Kitchener’s Belmont Village, this classic beer bar serves bar food that pairs swell with their 18 rotating taps.  

Having a holiday dinner on their mezzanine floor is a good way to soak in the holiday vibes while having your own little slice of the restaurant to yourself.  

I always enjoy having their feature burger and pairing it with a non-alcoholic beer.   

Loloan Lobby Bar  

This taste of the tropics will serve as a palmy balm for the wintry soul. Located in Uptown Waterloo, this is the place to go for Southeast Asian inspired cuisine.  

Known for their well-versed staff, enjoy sitting at the bar or the dining room. Feel like chatting? Their friendly bar staff would be happy to tell you about their menu while you’re sipping on a classic pho cocktail. Whether thirsty for a unique holiday drink or hungry for a pan-Asian tasting menu, Loloan is a treat for the senses of a solo diner.   

Hooland Cafe  

If you’re looking for something more casual, look no further than Waterloo’s premier destination for Hong Kong street eats.  

They have classic neon lights, the snacks and the atmosphere that transport you to Hong Kong. Enjoy their black truffle cream sauced chicken wings alongside ice cream coffee. The Hooland Cafe also boasts a robust vegetarian menu. 

Rhythm and Brews  

For lovers of beer and music, this rustic Cambridge-based bar is just for you. Having a few sips while enjoying food at their bar or having wings while enjoying live music, a dinner here will never leave you wanting stimulation for your five senses. Their venue was specifically designed with acoustics in mind, so sit back and enjoy holiday tunes while munching on locally sourced food. 

Oh! Bombay  

I enjoyed a dinner at Oh! Bombay on my own and I was not disappointed. This authentic Indian and Hakka food is just what the solo diner needs to warm their soul after a long winter’s day. Their honey chili chicken momos made me feel right at home while I was sitting and enjoying the rain outside.   

East Africa Cafe  

This cozy retreat where tradition meets taste is a great place to be if you’re looking for a cozy and unique dining experience in Downtown Kitchener. I went here for a cozy solo break from my day, and I enjoyed a nice la pisma with mango juice.   

This year has been particularly challenging for me in my personal life. I have learned to take breaks from the everyday and make time for myself. It’s important to be able to sit down and have a meal on your own, no distractions, just you and the food.  

Helps you think and unwind. So I encourage you all to do the same this holiday season. Who knows, maybe it’ll help you stay present and enjoy the holidays more.  

#AdrianQuijano #ArabellaPark #eastAfricaCafe #eatingAlone #holidays #holidaysAlone #hoolandCafe #LoloanLobbyBar #ohBombay #rhythmAndBrews

DONATIONS FOR 100 VIC FOR THE WINTER

Winter is here and residents at 100 Victoria St. North (100Vic) need supplies to get them through the season. Going into the harshest weather of the year, residents need the support of their community now more than ever. Here are a list of things residents need and details on how to donate.   

Urgently  

• Four person tents  

• Tarps  

• Wooden pallets  

• Sleeping bags  

• Blankets  

• Hygiene products  

Needed daily   

• Water  

• Juice  

• Single serve snacks (granola bars)  

• Home cooked meals  

• Clothes  

• Hats  

• Nail clippers and files  

• Pest repellent  

Amazon Wishlist 

• Glad black garbage bags  

• Rubbermaid 6-pack heavy duty durable totes  

• 8-liter plastic storage boxes  

• Evian natural spring water, 12 bottles  

• 36 Pack AAA batteries  

• 48 Pack AA batteries  

• Polarized sunglasses   

• Banana Boat sunscreen  

• Butane refill  

• Sunheavy duty double-sided dust barriers  

• Rain tarps  

• Paracord bracelet rope   

• Awning repair tape  

• Permanent all-weather duct tape  

How to drop off donations  

There is a parking lot adjacent to the encampment. Once at the encampment, the donation table is near the Sandbag House in the middle of camp. There will be a Fight-Back member on-site near the donation table.   

Other options for drop-offs  

Donations can be dropped off at the encampment at any time. For large or heavy donations, reach out to [email protected] to arrange a drop-off. If you are unable to make it to the encampment, pick-ups can be arranged for donations. 

#100Vic #100VictoriaSt #AdrianQuijano #amazonWishList #batteries #donations #ductTape #encampment #fightBack #FightBackWR #FightbackKW #fourPersonTents #KatWex #supplies #YIMBY

DONATIONS FOR 100 VIC FOR THE WINTER

Winter is here and residents at 100 Victoria St. North (100Vic) need supplies to get them through the season. Going into the harshest weather of the year, residents need the support of their community now more than ever. Here are a list of things residents need and details on how to donate.   

Urgently  

• Four person tents  

• Tarps  

• Wooden pallets  

• Sleeping bags  

• Blankets  

• Hygiene products  

Needed daily   

• Water  

• Juice  

• Single serve snacks (granola bars)  

• Home cooked meals  

• Clothes  

• Hats  

• Nail clippers and files  

• Pest repellent  

Amazon Wishlist 

• Glad black garbage bags  

• Rubbermaid 6-pack heavy duty durable totes  

• 8-liter plastic storage boxes  

• Evian natural spring water, 12 bottles  

• 36 Pack AAA batteries  

• 48 Pack AA batteries  

• Polarized sunglasses   

• Banana Boat sunscreen  

• Butane refill  

• Sunheavy duty double-sided dust barriers  

• Rain tarps  

• Paracord bracelet rope   

• Awning repair tape  

• Permanent all-weather duct tape  

How to drop off donations  

There is a parking lot adjacent to the encampment. Once at the encampment, the donation table is near the Sandbag House in the middle of camp. There will be a Fight-Back member on-site near the donation table.   

Other options for drop-offs  

Donations can be dropped off at the encampment at any time. For large or heavy donations, reach out to [email protected] to arrange a drop-off. If you are unable to make it to the encampment, pick-ups can be arranged for donations. 

#100Vic #100VictoriaSt #AdrianQuijano #amazonWishList #batteries #donations #ductTape #encampment #fightBack #FightBackWR #FightbackKW #fourPersonTents #KatWex #supplies #YIMBY

DONATIONS FOR 100 VIC FOR THE WINTER

Winter is here and residents at 100 Victoria St. North (100Vic) need supplies to get them through the season. Going into the harshest weather of the year, residents need the support of their community now more than ever. Here are a list of things residents need and details on how to donate.   

Urgently  

• Four person tents  

• Tarps  

• Wooden pallets  

• Sleeping bags  

• Blankets  

• Hygiene products  

Needed daily   

• Water  

• Juice  

• Single serve snacks (granola bars)  

• Home cooked meals  

• Clothes  

• Hats  

• Nail clippers and files  

• Pest repellent  

Amazon Wishlist 

• Glad black garbage bags  

• Rubbermaid 6-pack heavy duty durable totes  

• 8-liter plastic storage boxes  

• Evian natural spring water, 12 bottles  

• 36 Pack AAA batteries  

• 48 Pack AA batteries  

• Polarized sunglasses   

• Banana Boat sunscreen  

• Butane refill  

• Sunheavy duty double-sided dust barriers  

• Rain tarps  

• Paracord bracelet rope   

• Awning repair tape  

• Permanent all-weather duct tape  

How to drop off donations  

There is a parking lot adjacent to the encampment. Once at the encampment, the donation table is near the Sandbag House in the middle of camp. There will be a Fight-Back member on-site near the donation table.   

Other options for drop-offs  

Donations can be dropped off at the encampment at any time. For large or heavy donations, reach out to [email protected] to arrange a drop-off. If you are unable to make it to the encampment, pick-ups can be arranged for donations. 

#100Vic #100VictoriaSt #AdrianQuijano #amazonWishList #batteries #donations #ductTape #encampment #fightBack #FightBackWR #FightbackKW #fourPersonTents #KatWex #supplies #YIMBY

THE ISRAEL EFFECT IN CANADA

Peter Eglin, Professor Emeritus of Sociology at Wilfrid Laurier University, released his critical autoethnography Analysing the Israel Effect in Canada in 2024. Eglin analyzes the organizational methods which public criticism of Israel’s oppression of the Palestinian people is silenced in Canada. This is explained over the course of ten episodes in the life of the author over a 30 year period, from 1990 to 2020 through his interactions with Canadian news media. 

The Israel Effect is analyzed as a three-tier propaganda industry. Tier one is Israel’s lobby groups around the world, tier two is the role of universities and news media, and tier three is the non-Jewish, non-Zionists onlookers and institutions. Analysing the Israel Effect in Canada exists in the third tier as it is written by someone who is non-Jewish and non-Zionist. 

As a sociological work, it analyses and documents the different organized methods by which public criticism to Israel’s oppression towards Palestinians is silenced in Canada.   

Poignant and heart-wrenching at every turn, it is a crossover between an academic standpoint and journalistic exposé.  

In the chapter “Photo Propaganda” Eglin explores the role news media plays in suppressing Palestinian voices and promoting Israel’s interests.  

For example, looking at the Globe and Mail’s coverage of Palestinian victims: “What is most striking in the photographic depiction of victims of terror by The Globe and Mail, however, is the quite different use made of, and treatment accorded to, relatives, friends, co-workers and other associates of persons who have been killed or injured by terrorist violence, depending on whether the victims are Palestinian Arabs or Israeli Jews,” the book states.   

Eglin consistently reminds readers that the book is not about Israel and Palestine, it is about Canadian society and how it reacts to Israel’s oppression. Readers explore different vignettes arranged in chronological order to display a horror story of institutional censorship.   

Eglin, and in turn the reader, questions why the Canadian government does not enforce the human rights laws that would protect the Palestinian people. He emphasizes the importance of exposing ties to Israel in the government and corporations, and why people should continue to speak truth to power.   

Eglin remains an unflinching narrator throughout the book, not afraid to call out institutions that try to suppress his work. In the chapter “Circling the Wagons”, Eglin reacts to the National News Council not publishing his criticism of Israel. He tells his story through damning emails back and forth between Eglin and a representative from the council.   

For anyone who wants to understand the genocide in Palestine as it exists in the context of Canadian society, this book is a highly important read. The work is a compelling testament to the importance of preserving freedom of expression and the vital role academics play in challenging systemic injustice. It is an ideal book for historians, activists and scholars of politics. 

#adrianQuijano #analysingTheIsraelEffect #bookReview #canadianNews #israelEffect #media #mediaLiteracy #newsMedia #palestine #peterEglin #sociology #wilfridLaurierUniversity #zionism

THE ISRAEL EFFECT IN CANADA

Peter Eglin, Professor Emeritus of Sociology at Wilfrid Laurier University, released his critical autoethnography Analysing the Israel Effect in Canada in 2024. Eglin analyzes the organizational methods which public criticism of Israel’s oppression of the Palestinian people is silenced in Canada. This is explained over the course of ten episodes in the life of the author over a 30 year period, from 1990 to 2020 through his interactions with Canadian news media. 

The Israel Effect is analyzed as a three-tier propaganda industry. Tier one is Israel’s lobby groups around the world, tier two is the role of universities and news media, and tier three is the non-Jewish, non-Zionists onlookers and institutions. Analysing the Israel Effect in Canada exists in the third tier as it is written by someone who is non-Jewish and non-Zionist. 

As a sociological work, it analyses and documents the different organized methods by which public criticism to Israel’s oppression towards Palestinians is silenced in Canada.   

Poignant and heart-wrenching at every turn, it is a crossover between an academic standpoint and journalistic exposé.  

In the chapter “Photo Propaganda” Eglin explores the role news media plays in suppressing Palestinian voices and promoting Israel’s interests.  

For example, looking at the Globe and Mail’s coverage of Palestinian victims: “What is most striking in the photographic depiction of victims of terror by The Globe and Mail, however, is the quite different use made of, and treatment accorded to, relatives, friends, co-workers and other associates of persons who have been killed or injured by terrorist violence, depending on whether the victims are Palestinian Arabs or Israeli Jews,” the book states.   

Eglin consistently reminds readers that the book is not about Israel and Palestine, it is about Canadian society and how it reacts to Israel’s oppression. Readers explore different vignettes arranged in chronological order to display a horror story of institutional censorship.   

Eglin, and in turn the reader, questions why the Canadian government does not enforce the human rights laws that would protect the Palestinian people. He emphasizes the importance of exposing ties to Israel in the government and corporations, and why people should continue to speak truth to power.   

Eglin remains an unflinching narrator throughout the book, not afraid to call out institutions that try to suppress his work. In the chapter “Circling the Wagons”, Eglin reacts to the National News Council not publishing his criticism of Israel. He tells his story through damning emails back and forth between Eglin and a representative from the council.   

For anyone who wants to understand the genocide in Palestine as it exists in the context of Canadian society, this book is a highly important read. The work is a compelling testament to the importance of preserving freedom of expression and the vital role academics play in challenging systemic injustice. It is an ideal book for historians, activists and scholars of politics. 

#adrianQuijano #analysingTheIsraelEffect #bookReview #canadianNews #israelEffect #media #mediaLiteracy #newsMedia #palestine #peterEglin #sociology #wilfridLaurierUniversity #zionism

THE ISRAEL EFFECT IN CANADA

Peter Eglin, Professor Emeritus of Sociology at Wilfrid Laurier University, released his critical autoethnography Analysing the Israel Effect in Canada in 2024. Eglin analyzes the organizational methods which public criticism of Israel’s oppression of the Palestinian people is silenced in Canada. This is explained over the course of ten episodes in the life of the author over a 30 year period, from 1990 to 2020 through his interactions with Canadian news media. 

The Israel Effect is analyzed as a three-tier propaganda industry. Tier one is Israel’s lobby groups around the world, tier two is the role of universities and news media, and tier three is the non-Jewish, non-Zionists onlookers and institutions. Analysing the Israel Effect in Canada exists in the third tier as it is written by someone who is non-Jewish and non-Zionist. 

As a sociological work, it analyses and documents the different organized methods by which public criticism to Israel’s oppression towards Palestinians is silenced in Canada.   

Poignant and heart-wrenching at every turn, it is a crossover between an academic standpoint and journalistic exposé.  

In the chapter “Photo Propaganda” Eglin explores the role news media plays in suppressing Palestinian voices and promoting Israel’s interests.  

For example, looking at the Globe and Mail’s coverage of Palestinian victims: “What is most striking in the photographic depiction of victims of terror by The Globe and Mail, however, is the quite different use made of, and treatment accorded to, relatives, friends, co-workers and other associates of persons who have been killed or injured by terrorist violence, depending on whether the victims are Palestinian Arabs or Israeli Jews,” the book states.   

Eglin consistently reminds readers that the book is not about Israel and Palestine, it is about Canadian society and how it reacts to Israel’s oppression. Readers explore different vignettes arranged in chronological order to display a horror story of institutional censorship.   

Eglin, and in turn the reader, questions why the Canadian government does not enforce the human rights laws that would protect the Palestinian people. He emphasizes the importance of exposing ties to Israel in the government and corporations, and why people should continue to speak truth to power.   

Eglin remains an unflinching narrator throughout the book, not afraid to call out institutions that try to suppress his work. In the chapter “Circling the Wagons”, Eglin reacts to the National News Council not publishing his criticism of Israel. He tells his story through damning emails back and forth between Eglin and a representative from the council.   

For anyone who wants to understand the genocide in Palestine as it exists in the context of Canadian society, this book is a highly important read. The work is a compelling testament to the importance of preserving freedom of expression and the vital role academics play in challenging systemic injustice. It is an ideal book for historians, activists and scholars of politics. 

#adrianQuijano #analysingTheIsraelEffect #bookReview #canadianNews #israelEffect #media #mediaLiteracy #newsMedia #palestine #peterEglin #sociology #wilfridLaurierUniversity #zionism

ILWR HELPS RESIDENTS BE IN CHARGE OF THEIR OWN CARE

Independent Living Waterloo Region (ILWR) is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating choices and support for people with disabilities.  

Their mission is to champion independent living through self-directed services and programs.   

The organization was founded in 1982, originally named Independent Living Centre of Waterloo Region.  

Founder Henry Enns, a social worker and wheelchair user, focused on self-direction and accessibility, elements that remain at the organization’s core today.   

“We want their family to remain their family, not their caretakers. So, this program gives that back to a lot of people,” Robyn Jackson, Direct Funding Resource Coordinator for ILWR, said.   

Through the attendant outreach program, ILWR helps adults with physical disabilities in their home, school or workplace.  

These services include non-medical personal support, essential homemaking tasks, safety checks and medication reminders.   

“We evaluate what sort of level of need they have, what sort of budget they’re looking to request and, as well, we test their knowledge of employment standards and how to be an employer,” Jackson said.   

Some eligibility requirements for the assisted living program include that people need to be insured under OHIP, have a valid OHIP card, be 16 years of age or older and have a permanent physical disability that requires physical assistance with activities of daily living.   

“I have two children. They’re both young adults, but my wife and I felt that direct funding provided me with more flexibility and more freedom to be able to fit my personal care needs,” Dan Lajoie, Manager of Independent Living Resources and a self-manager with ILWR, said.  

According to Waterloo Region Community Foundation, the number of older adults in the Waterloo region is growing quickly.  

The number of residents aged 65 to 69 rose from 23,000 to 31,000 between 2014 and 2024, which is a 28 per cent growth. This indicates a critical need for mobility, care and adaptation of public facilities.   

“The traditional service model would see somebody accessing services through an agency where they might not necessarily get to choose who comes into their home. Being on this program gives that power back to the individual,” Jackson said.   

ILWR focuses on personal support services. Professionals assist with essential housekeeping that fits around a client’s personal care.  

Unlike other programs, there are no maximum hours. Hours are based on identified personal care needs and budgetary capacity.   

“I find it very rewarding to do this type of work. We see a lot of folks coming in that maybe don’t have any care at all in place. Maybe their disability is new to them and they’re sort of navigating all those pieces, and I get to help them put this program in place,” Jackson said.   

Another program available to ILWR clients is assisted living. Attendants are trained to assist with personal care activities. A service plan will be created between the client and an ILWR staff member, which includes assistance with controlled acts and complex needs.   

“I would say that it’s a great program for anyone who can manage it. It allows freedom of choice and scheduling within your own life,” Lajoie said.  

#AdrianQuijano #clients #community #communityHealthCare #DanLajoie #directFunding #HenryEnns #ilwr #IndependentLivingWaterlooRegion #nonProfit #nonProfit #OHIP #olderAdults #personalSupport #PSW #residents #RobynJackson #seniorCitizens #Seniors #WaterlooRegionCommunityFoundation

ODD DUCK WINE & PROVISIONS GETS MICHELIN RECOMMENDATION 

On Sept. 19, 2025, Kitchener’s Odd Duck Wine & Provisions was added to the Michelin Guide as a recommended restaurant to visit. Odd Duck aims to be a welcoming space without tip culture that focuses on people and providing unique dining experiences.   

The team shows careful attention to detail in their menus and wine pairings. Still, the Michelin recommendation came as a pleasant surprise.   

“We haven’t cared about fitting into a box. So, we’re just gonna keep doing our thing. We’re glad they noticed. That’s really cool, but that doesn’t change our approach,” Wes Klassen, owner and sommelier of Odd Duck, said.   

Klassen wanted Odd Duck to be different from other restaurant environments. He wanted a place that encouraged kitchen team members to be creative and actively participate in creating the menu.   

“The foundation of thinking about Odd Duck came from, is how do we create a space that is a brave place for people to exist as they are, and ironically thinking about this in the pandemic, not be masking all the time, right? They’re able to be themselves,” Klassen said.   

In 2020, Klassen started Purple Teeth Wine Consulting, a business that strove to make wine education accessible. Just before he was about to launch wine events, everything was shut down due to COVID-19.  

“In the very beginning, we focused on wanting to build an environment that was just unapologetically inclusive,” Rob Corrigan, Odd Duck’s co-founder, partner and director of operations, said.  

Stuck at home, Klassen began thinking about how to make the restaurant business more ethical. He wanted to do a lot of listening and unlearning with other individuals in hospitality to create a better work environment.   

“It’s an experience. And we also know that we won’t be for everybody, in terms of people who want that mass kind of consumption. We’re more of a place you go to explore flavor,” Klassen said.   

Odd Duck is driven to do things differently from restaurant chains. Every week the Odd Duck team meet and discuss changes to the menu. Whether it’s a new wine or new dish, talking about flavors is something that involves all kitchen, bar and server staff.   

“We want to hear from staff. Doesn’t matter if you’re a sous chef or a head chef or someone just starting as a server. We want everyone to contribute ideas when creating our menus,” Corrigan said.  

Sitting down and enjoying a meal at Odd Duck means being greeted with genuine hospitality from the staff. This authenticity is attributed to the staff feeling like a welcome and heard part of the team, according to Corrigan.   

“Whether it’s ingredients from a local farmer or whether it’s a wine from a biodynamic or an Indigenous producer, we want to be able to bring our guests on that journey and transport them to that place or that environment,” Corrigan said. 

#AdrianQuijano #COVID19 #KatWex #kitchener #localRestaurant #michelinGuide #MichelinRecommendation #OddDuck #oddDuckWineAndProvisions #purpleTeethWineCounsulting #robCorrigan #waterloo #wesKlassen

ODD DUCK WINE & PROVISIONS GETS MICHELIN RECOMMENDATION 

On Sept. 19, 2025, Kitchener’s Odd Duck Wine & Provisions was added to the Michelin Guide as a recommended restaurant to visit. Odd Duck aims to be a welcoming space without tip culture that focuses on people and providing unique dining experiences.   

The team shows careful attention to detail in their menus and wine pairings. Still, the Michelin recommendation came as a pleasant surprise.   

“We haven’t cared about fitting into a box. So, we’re just gonna keep doing our thing. We’re glad they noticed. That’s really cool, but that doesn’t change our approach,” Wes Klassen, owner and sommelier of Odd Duck, said.   

Klassen wanted Odd Duck to be different from other restaurant environments. He wanted a place that encouraged kitchen team members to be creative and actively participate in creating the menu.   

“The foundation of thinking about Odd Duck came from, is how do we create a space that is a brave place for people to exist as they are, and ironically thinking about this in the pandemic, not be masking all the time, right? They’re able to be themselves,” Klassen said.   

In 2020, Klassen started Purple Teeth Wine Consulting, a business that strove to make wine education accessible. Just before he was about to launch wine events, everything was shut down due to COVID-19.  

“In the very beginning, we focused on wanting to build an environment that was just unapologetically inclusive,” Rob Corrigan, Odd Duck’s co-founder, partner and director of operations, said.  

Stuck at home, Klassen began thinking about how to make the restaurant business more ethical. He wanted to do a lot of listening and unlearning with other individuals in hospitality to create a better work environment.   

“It’s an experience. And we also know that we won’t be for everybody, in terms of people who want that mass kind of consumption. We’re more of a place you go to explore flavor,” Klassen said.   

Odd Duck is driven to do things differently from restaurant chains. Every week the Odd Duck team meet and discuss changes to the menu. Whether it’s a new wine or new dish, talking about flavors is something that involves all kitchen, bar and server staff.   

“We want to hear from staff. Doesn’t matter if you’re a sous chef or a head chef or someone just starting as a server. We want everyone to contribute ideas when creating our menus,” Corrigan said.  

Sitting down and enjoying a meal at Odd Duck means being greeted with genuine hospitality from the staff. This authenticity is attributed to the staff feeling like a welcome and heard part of the team, according to Corrigan.   

“Whether it’s ingredients from a local farmer or whether it’s a wine from a biodynamic or an Indigenous producer, we want to be able to bring our guests on that journey and transport them to that place or that environment,” Corrigan said. 

#AdrianQuijano #COVID19 #KatWex #kitchener #localRestaurant #michelinGuide #MichelinRecommendation #OddDuck #oddDuckWineAndProvisions #purpleTeethWineCounsulting #robCorrigan #waterloo #wesKlassen

ODD DUCK WINE & PROVISIONS GETS MICHELIN RECOMMENDATION 

On Sept. 19, 2025, Kitchener’s Odd Duck Wine & Provisions was added to the Michelin Guide as a recommended restaurant to visit. Odd Duck aims to be a welcoming space without tip culture that focuses on people and providing unique dining experiences.   

The team shows careful attention to detail in their menus and wine pairings. Still, the Michelin recommendation came as a pleasant surprise.   

“We haven’t cared about fitting into a box. So, we’re just gonna keep doing our thing. We’re glad they noticed. That’s really cool, but that doesn’t change our approach,” Wes Klassen, owner and sommelier of Odd Duck, said.   

Klassen wanted Odd Duck to be different from other restaurant environments. He wanted a place that encouraged kitchen team members to be creative and actively participate in creating the menu.   

“The foundation of thinking about Odd Duck came from, is how do we create a space that is a brave place for people to exist as they are, and ironically thinking about this in the pandemic, not be masking all the time, right? They’re able to be themselves,” Klassen said.   

In 2020, Klassen started Purple Teeth Wine Consulting, a business that strove to make wine education accessible. Just before he was about to launch wine events, everything was shut down due to COVID-19.  

“In the very beginning, we focused on wanting to build an environment that was just unapologetically inclusive,” Rob Corrigan, Odd Duck’s co-founder, partner and director of operations, said.  

Stuck at home, Klassen began thinking about how to make the restaurant business more ethical. He wanted to do a lot of listening and unlearning with other individuals in hospitality to create a better work environment.   

“It’s an experience. And we also know that we won’t be for everybody, in terms of people who want that mass kind of consumption. We’re more of a place you go to explore flavor,” Klassen said.   

Odd Duck is driven to do things differently from restaurant chains. Every week the Odd Duck team meet and discuss changes to the menu. Whether it’s a new wine or new dish, talking about flavors is something that involves all kitchen, bar and server staff.   

“We want to hear from staff. Doesn’t matter if you’re a sous chef or a head chef or someone just starting as a server. We want everyone to contribute ideas when creating our menus,” Corrigan said.  

Sitting down and enjoying a meal at Odd Duck means being greeted with genuine hospitality from the staff. This authenticity is attributed to the staff feeling like a welcome and heard part of the team, according to Corrigan.   

“Whether it’s ingredients from a local farmer or whether it’s a wine from a biodynamic or an Indigenous producer, we want to be able to bring our guests on that journey and transport them to that place or that environment,” Corrigan said. 

#AdrianQuijano #COVID19 #KatWex #kitchener #localRestaurant #michelinGuide #MichelinRecommendation #OddDuck #oddDuckWineAndProvisions #purpleTeethWineCounsulting #robCorrigan #waterloo #wesKlassen

DOCUMENTARY COVERS WILMOT LAND GRAB

On Jan. 19, 2025, the first part of a three-part mini documentary, Unearthed, about the Wilmot land grab was posted on YouTube. With executive producers John and Kathie Jordan, and director and editor Thom Varey, they sought to give voice to farmers and Wilmot residents.  

“The objective of this project is to assemble one contiguous parcel of land as a step toward attracting a major employer for the future and securing well-paying jobs and further economic prosperity,” the Region of Waterloo said in a statement.  

In the first episode, viewers heard directly from impacted farmers who are left wondering what is next for their farms and livelihoods. In the second they covered the small amount of farmland that exists and in the third they spoke about the true cost of the land assembly to residents in Wilmot and beyond.  

“We’re dealing with a bunch of city people that have no idea about farming, and about the land and the soil itself,” Jordan said.   

The 12-minute-long documentary stands as a call to action for residents of the Waterloo Region and beyond, as well as a call for local politicians to speak up and speak out against the Wilmot land assembly.   

“How much more critical of a mineral do you need than soil?  Because you can’t make more of it. Well, not without a few thourand years,” Jordan said.   

Jordan and his family live across from the 770 in what is referred to as the Shadowlands in Wilmot. It is referred to as such because whatever happens on the land assembly will affect the residents who live in the area.   

“Our well is only 19 and a half feet deep, and I get it tested, and the water is perfect, but they’re gonna start messing with the soil and the water, I don’t know what will happen to our water quality then,” Jordan said.   

In 2022, Statistics Canada found Ontario was losing 319 acres of farmland per day to development. Compared to 2016, 175 acres were being lost per day. This is a 319 per cent increase in development. Many farmers and residents of Wilmot are concerned with this growth rate, as a majority of Ontario’s farmland is in Wilmot.  

“The province has put these parameters around the lack of engagement, around a lack of transparency, around NDAs. And is ultimately funding the entire scheme,” Catherine Fife, MPP for Waterloo Region, said.   

The documentary was created in partnership with the Wilmot Civic Action Network. The network unites community groups and neighbours to advocate for farmland. Quality of life, a transparent government, financial accountability and environmental responsibility are the tenants that the network operates by.   

“This is a turning point really for agriculture in Ontario. If you can be so disrespectful to these farmers in Wilmot, then you will do this to other farmers,” Fife said.   

Jordan and the Wilmot Civic Action Network are not opposed to development, however only if it does sustainably and responsibly. They demand transparency and accountability from elected municipal and provincial leaders.   

“The entire infrastructure piece is going to be incredibly expensive. There will be a financial impact on the taxpayers and the residents of the Waterloo Region. That is why they deserve to have a voice in this,” Fife said. 

#AdrianQuijano #agriculture #CatherineFife #johnJordan #kathieJordan #landExpropriation #LocalArt #localArtists #sustainable #TheRegionOfWaterloo #thomVarey #unearthed #waterlooRegion #Wilmot #wilmotCivicActionNetwork #wilmotLandGrab #wilmotResidents

DOCUMENTARY COVERS WILMOT LAND GRAB

On Jan. 19, 2025, the first part of a three-part mini documentary, Unearthed, about the Wilmot land grab was posted on YouTube. With executive producers John and Kathie Jordan, and director and editor Thom Varey, they sought to give voice to farmers and Wilmot residents.  

“The objective of this project is to assemble one contiguous parcel of land as a step toward attracting a major employer for the future and securing well-paying jobs and further economic prosperity,” the Region of Waterloo said in a statement.  

In the first episode, viewers heard directly from impacted farmers who are left wondering what is next for their farms and livelihoods. In the second they covered the small amount of farmland that exists and in the third they spoke about the true cost of the land assembly to residents in Wilmot and beyond.  

“We’re dealing with a bunch of city people that have no idea about farming, and about the land and the soil itself,” Jordan said.   

The 12-minute-long documentary stands as a call to action for residents of the Waterloo Region and beyond, as well as a call for local politicians to speak up and speak out against the Wilmot land assembly.   

“How much more critical of a mineral do you need than soil?  Because you can’t make more of it. Well, not without a few thourand years,” Jordan said.   

Jordan and his family live across from the 770 in what is referred to as the Shadowlands in Wilmot. It is referred to as such because whatever happens on the land assembly will affect the residents who live in the area.   

“Our well is only 19 and a half feet deep, and I get it tested, and the water is perfect, but they’re gonna start messing with the soil and the water, I don’t know what will happen to our water quality then,” Jordan said.   

In 2022, Statistics Canada found Ontario was losing 319 acres of farmland per day to development. Compared to 2016, 175 acres were being lost per day. This is a 319 per cent increase in development. Many farmers and residents of Wilmot are concerned with this growth rate, as a majority of Ontario’s farmland is in Wilmot.  

“The province has put these parameters around the lack of engagement, around a lack of transparency, around NDAs. And is ultimately funding the entire scheme,” Catherine Fife, MPP for Waterloo Region, said.   

The documentary was created in partnership with the Wilmot Civic Action Network. The network unites community groups and neighbours to advocate for farmland. Quality of life, a transparent government, financial accountability and environmental responsibility are the tenants that the network operates by.   

“This is a turning point really for agriculture in Ontario. If you can be so disrespectful to these farmers in Wilmot, then you will do this to other farmers,” Fife said.   

Jordan and the Wilmot Civic Action Network are not opposed to development, however only if it does sustainably and responsibly. They demand transparency and accountability from elected municipal and provincial leaders.   

“The entire infrastructure piece is going to be incredibly expensive. There will be a financial impact on the taxpayers and the residents of the Waterloo Region. That is why they deserve to have a voice in this,” Fife said. 

#AdrianQuijano #agriculture #CatherineFife #johnJordan #kathieJordan #landExpropriation #LocalArt #localArtists #sustainable #TheRegionOfWaterloo #thomVarey #unearthed #waterlooRegion #Wilmot #wilmotCivicActionNetwork #wilmotLandGrab #wilmotResidents

DOCUMENTARY COVERS WILMOT LAND GRAB

On Jan. 19, 2025, the first part of a three-part mini documentary, Unearthed, about the Wilmot land grab was posted on YouTube. With executive producers John and Kathie Jordan, and director and editor Thom Varey, they sought to give voice to farmers and Wilmot residents.  

“The objective of this project is to assemble one contiguous parcel of land as a step toward attracting a major employer for the future and securing well-paying jobs and further economic prosperity,” the Region of Waterloo said in a statement.  

In the first episode, viewers heard directly from impacted farmers who are left wondering what is next for their farms and livelihoods. In the second they covered the small amount of farmland that exists and in the third they spoke about the true cost of the land assembly to residents in Wilmot and beyond.  

“We’re dealing with a bunch of city people that have no idea about farming, and about the land and the soil itself,” Jordan said.   

The 12-minute-long documentary stands as a call to action for residents of the Waterloo Region and beyond, as well as a call for local politicians to speak up and speak out against the Wilmot land assembly.   

“How much more critical of a mineral do you need than soil?  Because you can’t make more of it. Well, not without a few thourand years,” Jordan said.   

Jordan and his family live across from the 770 in what is referred to as the Shadowlands in Wilmot. It is referred to as such because whatever happens on the land assembly will affect the residents who live in the area.   

“Our well is only 19 and a half feet deep, and I get it tested, and the water is perfect, but they’re gonna start messing with the soil and the water, I don’t know what will happen to our water quality then,” Jordan said.   

In 2022, Statistics Canada found Ontario was losing 319 acres of farmland per day to development. Compared to 2016, 175 acres were being lost per day. This is a 319 per cent increase in development. Many farmers and residents of Wilmot are concerned with this growth rate, as a majority of Ontario’s farmland is in Wilmot.  

“The province has put these parameters around the lack of engagement, around a lack of transparency, around NDAs. And is ultimately funding the entire scheme,” Catherine Fife, MPP for Waterloo Region, said.   

The documentary was created in partnership with the Wilmot Civic Action Network. The network unites community groups and neighbours to advocate for farmland. Quality of life, a transparent government, financial accountability and environmental responsibility are the tenants that the network operates by.   

“This is a turning point really for agriculture in Ontario. If you can be so disrespectful to these farmers in Wilmot, then you will do this to other farmers,” Fife said.   

Jordan and the Wilmot Civic Action Network are not opposed to development, however only if it does sustainably and responsibly. They demand transparency and accountability from elected municipal and provincial leaders.   

“The entire infrastructure piece is going to be incredibly expensive. There will be a financial impact on the taxpayers and the residents of the Waterloo Region. That is why they deserve to have a voice in this,” Fife said. 

#AdrianQuijano #agriculture #CatherineFife #johnJordan #kathieJordan #landExpropriation #LocalArt #localArtists #sustainable #TheRegionOfWaterloo #thomVarey #unearthed #waterlooRegion #Wilmot #wilmotCivicActionNetwork #wilmotLandGrab #wilmotResidents

MUSE GOETTL RAISES AWARENESS FOR LYDIA’S LAW

Muse Goettl, a local drag artist known as Mama Muse, wants to bring awareness to Lydia’s Law (Bill 189) which is aimed in addressing delays in the Canadian Justice system. Specifically related to the 1,326 sexual assault (SA) cases that were withdrawn or stayed in 2022.  Goettl found Bill 189 helpful for navigating the justice system.  

“It gives me hope that there’s a chance I could be able to redo the criminal case, but that’s only if the government chooses to enact it [Bill 189],” Goettl said.  

Goettl recounted meeting his abuser in 2018, starting a relationship with him in January 2019, and experienced abuse until 2022. He was able to end the relationship in July 2022 after an arduous process where he also lost friends due to paranoia. After reaching out to an old friend for support, he found the strength to have his abuser arrested and charged in November 2022.   

“The Criminal Court system has been proven to be hostile to survivors, including myself. Good example of this, when I was told that that his charges had stayed permanently, I was told to move on with my life, and if I pursue this further, I’m gonna look vindictive,” Goettl said.   

Catherine Fife, MPP of Waterloo, currently has a petition running using Bill 189 to call for justice to sexual assault survivors. Fife hopes to adopt Recommendations 1 and 3 of the Auditor General’s 2019 Annual Report. These recommendations would make Independent Legal Advice (ILA) more accessible to survivors.   

“Every police service that receives a sexual assault complaint from a person who is 16 years of age or older shall make the person aware of the Independent Legal Advice Program that is delivered through Ontario Victim Services of the Ministry of the Attorney General,” Bill 189 states.   

Goettl’s case was severely delayed due to the backlog caused by COVID-19. Currently he faces challenges with pursuing his case through civil court because of defamation risks. He feels Lydia’s Law gives him protection and a foundation to lean on.   

“The Attorney General shall, (a) review the efficiency of the Victim Quick Response Program as a replacement for the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board in supporting survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking; and(b) report the results of the review to the Assembly within one year after section 1 comes into force,” Bill 189 states.  

Goettl’s case has, in his words, been mishandled and has had a huge impact on their mental health. He plans to raise awareness of Lydia’s Law through a charity show, social media and advocating for Lydia’s Law in Kitchener Waterloo to provide survivors with legal options.  

“The plan right now is, I want to bring awareness to this, which is why I want to do this interview. I’m planning a charity show in the new year to raise money for [Sexual Assault Support Centre]. I want to be as loud as I can about this, because it’s not fair that not just me, but thousands of others have had to go through this. They don’t have legal recourse. And the only way is through Lydia’s Law,” Goettl said.  

#AdrianQuijano #auditorsGeneral #bill189 #CatherineFife #criminalCourt #lydiasLaw #mamaMuse #mppOfWaterloo #ontarioVictimServices #SASC #SexualAssault #SexualAssaultSupportCenterSASCOfWaterlooRegion_ #sexualHealth

SHORE CENTRE INTRODUCES CRUCIAL GENDER-AFFIRMING CARE CLINIC

SHORE Centre’s only location in the Waterloo Region is on Westmount Road north, with some satellite locations in Guelph. In SPECTRUM’s 2021 Waterloo Region Non-LGBTQ2+ Perception Survey, a significant portion of participants showed an unwillingness to consider transgender and/or non-binary people as potential romantic partners. 

This expansion came as part of ongoing efforts to meet the growing demand for reproductive, sexual health and gender-affirming care and education in the Waterloo Region.  

“I think about us as support for folks that may be on the margins when it comes to health care and for those who don’t have a place in health care,” Jess Huston, clinic manager at SHORE Centre, said. 

The SHORE Centre’s gender-affirming care clinic opened on May 8, 2024. A soft launch for the event was available for a limited number of patients on Apr. 29, 2024. This comes after The Outlook Study prepared by the Rainbow Community Council in 2019, shows 23 per cent of trans people in the region reported their provider did not know enough about trans-related care to provide it.  

“It was a natural fit for us to have a gender affirming care clinic here, because it fits with our mandate, it fits with what we’ve always done, you know?” Huston said. 

At the gender-affirming care clinic, patients’ goals are prioritized. 

The clinic’s main physician is a transgender woman, which a welcome change to how many transgender and/or non-binary patients must deal with. 

About 76 per cent of patients had to educate at least four different health care providers. The top health care providers which needed to be educated were mental health providers, family doctors, clerical staff and psychiatrists.

“A lot of trans folks have trouble accessing those things, even more so than the cis population, because of the additional barriers of seeking affirming care,” Huston said.  

Only 44 per cent speak with their primary healthcare provider about health issues specific to their gender identity, which is why SHORE’s gender-affirming care clinic is crucial for transgender and/or non-binary people. Clients can either get a referral from their healthcare provider or self-refer. 

“Any clinician can do surgical referrals for a surgical abortion or gender affirming surgeries. But they don’t, they don’t feel comfortable doing it. They don’t feel like they have the information,” Lindsay Sweeney-Hawkins, the Executive Director of SHORE Centre said.  

As of their grand opening in 2024, SHORE Centre has seen 267 patients for intake. They are currently booking six months out, which Huston speaks to the incredible need in the community.  

“I think that for me, it is the really deep thread of all of the care we provide, it is providing care successfully, without judgment, and making people feel welcome while they are accessing,” Sweeney-Hawkins said.  

Fifteen per cent of transgender and/or non-binary patients reported that hospital staff belittled or ridiculed them for being trans. 

SHORE Centre’s gender-affirming care clinic acts as a line of defense for some of the most vulnerable people in the healthcare system today.  

#AdrianQuijano #Healthcare #JessHuston #JessiWood #LindsaySweeneyHawkins #localHealthcare #nonProfits #nonbinary #sexualHealth #SHORECentre #Spectrum #transHealthcare

CONTINUING ADVOCACY IN WILMONT

In March 2024, some landowners and farmers in the Wilmot Township received notices on behalf of the Region of Waterloo asking them to sell their properties.

Farmers who live on the intersection of Nafziger Rd. and Bleams Rd. feel they are being forced off their land for use of future industrial projects. 

There is growing outrage over the Ontario government’s mega land assembly in Wilmot Township.

Fight for Farmland highlights the lack of public meetings, studies or transparency for eight months. The community’s resistance is evident through protests, lawn signs and a film festival on Oct. 28, 2024.

Kevin Thomason, vice chair of the Grand River Environmental Network, urged continued public engagement and advocacy against the land assembly.

Despite concerns from farmers and the agricultural community, the Waterloo Region Economic Development Corporation (WREDC) continues forward with the Wilmot land assembly without any data.  

Thomason criticized Doug Ford for deflecting blame to regional officials and noted the provincial government’s non-disclosure agreement as a barrier to information.  

“Quite simply, if it’s happened to these Wilmot farmers, it could happen to farmers anywhere,” Thomason said.   

There is growing outrage over the Ontario government’s mega land assembly in Wilmot Township.  

“In all situations like this, where there’s significant changes like this there would have been public consultation. I don’t understand it other than them having something to hide. They went about it very inappropriately,” Alfred Lowrick, the spokesperson for Fight for Farmland said.   

Following the U.S. elections, Fight for Farmland called for an immediate halt to the Wilmot Land assembly. They cite uncertainty over the project by Tony La Mantia, president and CEO of the WRDEC.   

“My issue is the lack of transparency, lack of public consultation and the lack of bringing in people’s wants and needs. The farmers whom I speak for are saying it’s all well and good that you want to do this for the greater good but none of us want this. We don’t have a willing seller here,” Lowrick said.  

With Trump’s intentions to roll back subsidies for electric vehicle battery plants it cast serious doubt over the need for a large-scale industrial project in Wilmot.  

Electric vehicles are increasing in Canada with a record of 86,032 electric vehicles registered in 2021 and they made up 5.3 per cent of total vehicle registrations for the same year. 

 “The farmers, the ones who run these operations are not willing to sell. Willing seller, willing buyer. A lot of them bought their land last year in hopes of growth,” Lowrick said.  

Over the past eight months, the Region of Waterloo and the Ontario government have ignored the Freedom of Information requests submitted by members of Fight for Farmland.  

Ford deflects the blame for the lack of public input of the project onto Regional Chair, Karen Redman.  

“There’s another farmer whose home farm is here and the land acquisition land he has is just across the street. If that happens then he loses that 100 acres, and if it happens it eliminates the farmer’s ability to farm,” Lowrick said.  

The Fight for Farmland Group plans to expand its advocacy through planning more community events, rallies, council designations and broadening its media outreach. Their goal is to raise more awareness on the Wilmot land assembly so that the WREDC will halt the project altogether.

#AdrianQuijano #AlfredLowrick #DougFord #economicDevelopment #FightForFarmland #GrandRiverEnvironmentalNetwork #KarenRedman #KevinThomason #RandyMoore #TonyLaMantia #WilmotTownship #WRDEC

A QUICK GUIDE TO INDOOR GARDENING

https://communityedition.ca/a-quick-guide-to-indoor-gardening/

#AdrianQuijano #Gardening #herbs #housePlants #indoorGardening #KatarinaWex