Image Source: City of Belleville's Facebook Page The City of Belleville, Ontario, continues its efforts to improve road safety by relocating its Automatic Speed Enforcement (ASE) cameras to new Community Safety Zones. Beginning the week of January 6 to 10, these cameras will be active at the following locations: 📍 Ashley Street (from Ducette Road to Old Madoc Road) 📍 Dundas Street East (from George Street to First Street) 📍 Palmer Road (from Bridge Street West to Dundas Street West) 📍 Sidney Street (from Moira Street West to Bridge Street West) The ASE program is a critical part of Belleville’s commitment to fostering a safer, more livable community. By targeting areas identified as Community Safety Zones, this initiative focuses on protecting vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists, while encouraging drivers to maintain appropriate speeds. These zones were chosen based on traffic patterns, community concerns, and a history of speeding incidents. The goal is not just enforcement but education—helping drivers become more aware of their speeds and their impact on community safety. The City encourages all residents and drivers passing through Belleville to adhere to posted speed limits, especially in areas marked as Community Safety Zones. Fines from speeding violations captured by ASE cameras are reinvested into the city’s infrastructure, supporting improvements that benefit the entire community. For more information about the ASE program, including answers to frequently asked questions, please visit Belleville.ca/Traffic . If you have additional questions, feel free to contact the Transportation and Operations department at 613-967-3275 or email opgeneral@belleville.ca . By working together to prioritize safe and responsible driving, Belleville is taking meaningful steps toward creating a secure environment for everyone who calls this city home. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Sponsored Advertisement: If you would like to advertise with us in our articles please call or text 7056329018

The Canadian government has announced a temporary Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) holiday, effective from December 14, 2024, to February 15, 2025. This initiative aims to provide financial relief to consumers during the holiday season by exempting specific items from these taxes. Eligible Items: Prepared Foods and Beverages: Prepared Meals: Salads, sandwiches, pre-made meals, and similar items. Snacks: Baked goods, candy, chips, granola bars, and related products. Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Coffee, tea, carbonated drinks, juices, and smoothies. Eligible Alcoholic Beverages: Beer and Malt Beverages: Such as canned or bottled beer. Wine, Cider, and Sake: Including fortified versions with an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 22.9% or less. Spirit Coolers and Premixed Alcoholic Beverages: With an ABV of 7% or less. Children's Products: Clothing and Footwear: Apparel and shoes designed for children. Diapers: All types of children's diapers. Car Seats: Infant and toddler car seats. Toys: Various toys intended for children. Other Items: Jigsaw Puzzles: Suitable for all ages. Video Game Consoles and Accessories: Including controllers and physical video games. Physical Books and Printed Newspapers: Traditional printed reading materials. Holiday Decorations: Christmas trees, Hanukkah bushes, and similar decorative items. Non-Eligible Items: Alcoholic Spirits and Liqueurs: Beverages exceeding the specified ABV limits. Cannabis Products: Including those sold as food or beverages. Dietary Supplements: Products consumed for therapeutic or preventive effects. Pet Food: All types of pet food. Vending Machine Sales: Qualifying food and beverages sold through vending machines. Adult Clothing and Footwear: Even if purchased for children. Specialized Clothing and Footwear: Items like bowling shoes, ski boots, and wetsuits. Collectibles: Items not intended for play or learning, such as collectible dolls or hockey cards. Digital Products: Downloadable or online-only games, eBooks, and electronic audiobooks. Holiday Decorations: Items that are not actual trees, including Christmas tree decorations and poinsettia plants. Implementation Details: Duration: The tax holiday is in effect from December 14, 2024, to February 15, 2025. Applicability: The tax relief applies to both business-to-consumer (B2C) and business-to-business (B2B) transactions. Provincial Considerations: The tax relief pertains to the federal GST and the combined federal-provincial HST. In provinces with separate Provincial Sales Taxes (PST), such as British Columbia, Manitoba, Quebec, and Saskatchewan, the PST will continue to apply unless provincial governments adopt similar tax holidays. Business Compliance: Businesses are responsible for ensuring that GST/HST is not charged on qualifying items during the specified period. This requires updating sales systems to apply a zero rate to eligible transactions. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) advises businesses are not required to partake but are strongly encouraged to make reasonable efforts to comply with the new tax exemptions during this holiday season. For more detailed information, businesses and consumers can refer to the official CRA guidelines on the GST/HST holiday. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Date Issued: Sunday, December 8, 2024 Time:  5:04 PM Environment Canada has issued a Freezing Rain Warning for several areas in Southern Ontario, urging residents to prepare for hazardous conditions. Ice build-up from freezing rain and freezing drizzle will make roads and walkways treacherous. Staying home is strongly recommended unless it is absolutely necessary to go out. Warning Details Known Hazards: Ice build-up on highways, roads, sidewalks, and parking lots, creating slippery and dangerous surfaces. Timing: Late Monday morning through Monday evening, with potential freezing drizzle lingering overnight. Affected Areas: Belleville Cobourg Colborne Consecon Eastern Northumberland County Frontenac Islands Kingston Lakefield Madoc Napanee Odessa Peterborough City Picton Quinte West Sandbanks Park South Frontenac Southern Peterborough County Stirling Sydenham Tamworth Tweed Western Northumberland County Stay Safe Whether at Home or Out Freezing rain is expected to create dangerous conditions quickly. If you can stay home, it’s the safest option. However, if you must go out due to work or essential errands, exercise extreme caution. Safety Tips for Those Who Must Venture Out Driving : Reduce speed, maintain a safe distance, and use winter tires. Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns to prevent skidding. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with blankets, a flashlight, and non-perishable food. Walking: Wear footwear with strong traction. Move cautiously and avoid untreated or steep surfaces. Stay Prepared at Home Salt or sand your driveway and walkways before the freezing rain begins. Charge your devices and prepare for potential power outages. Stock up on essential supplies, including food, water, and medications. Stay Informed Monitor updates from Environment Canada and local authorities. Report severe weather conditions using #ONStorm or email onstorm@ec.gc.ca . Freezing rain events like this one can escalate quickly, creating widespread hazards. Whether you’re staying in or heading out, prioritize safety above all else. By being cautious, you help protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community. Share this article to ensure your friends, family, and neighbors are informed about the freezing rain warning. Spreading the word could help prevent accidents and save lives. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Sponsored Advertisement: If you would like to advertise with us in our articles please call or text 7056329018

Photo from Construct Connect On Monday, BC Hydro announced in their 2024 Call to Power nine new wind-powered contracts they will be building in the upcoming years. These new projects will be in partnership with Indigenous groups across British Columbia.  The nine projects are estimated to provide 5,000 gigawatts hours per year. That equates to enough electricity to power 500,000 homes and boost BC Hydro’s current electricity supply by 8%.  The project is also projected to supply a growing field of jobs for British Columbians. The projects are estimated to create 2,000 jobs annually in project construction and generate five to six billion dollars in private capital spending.  The newly appointed B.C. Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions, Adrian Dix, awarded the nine 30-year contracts to wind projects. The two biggest are in the Peace Region with the Taylor Wind Project and the Steward Wind Project which will be in partnership with the Saulteau First Nations and West Moberly First Nations respectively.  “Now that the projects have been selected, we’re going to work together with BC Hydro, First Nations, and proponents to get these projects built quickly, responsibly, and efficiently, and get those turbines spinning” states Dix.  The cost of BC Hydro projects has been a subject of complaints in the past, but the fees for the new Call to Power are projected to be lower than in past years. The cost of wind has dropped significantly over the past few years, making the average price for the successful calls in this project 40% lower than BC Hydro’s last call for clean power in 2010.  Tamara Davidson, Minister of Environments and Parks, says: “It’s clear there are enormous opportunities to generate clean electricity through wind, and that we need to do more to get larger projects online faster. That’s why we are announcing our intention to exempt wind-power projects from the environmental assessment process, with a rigorous provincial permitting process in place, while ensuring First Nations are full partners in our shared, sustainable future.”  Another area of past complaints was BC Hydro’s relationship with British Columbian Indigenous groups. BC Hydro reported that for this Call for Power, the company engaged extensively with First Nations and included a requirement that the new projects must have a 25% equity ownership held by First Nations. BC Hydro also reported that eight of the nine successful energy projects will have 51% equity. This represents $2.5 billion to $3 billion of ownership by First Nations in new renewable energy projects in BC.  As Dix states, “In short, we need more power: this gives us more power. We need urgent action on climate change: this is urgent action on climate change. We need to ensure the First Nations are involved in the economic development of the province and have an equity interest: it does just that.” Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our only funding is your amazing donations to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/JG9D2sCg References:  https://energeticcity.ca/2024/12/10/bc-hydro-2024-call-for-power-to-benefit-peace-region-communities/   https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024ECS0048-001643    https://vancouver.citynews.ca/2024/12/09/bc-hydro-bc-government-new-wind-power-projects/

The World's Finest Chocolate Factory Outlet Store in Campbellford, Ontario, is set to close its doors permanently on December 31, 2024. This decision marks the end of a significant chapter for both the company and the local community. A Sweet Legacy Established in 1958, the Campbellford location has been a cornerstone of the community for over six decades. The factory outlet store, opened in 1999, became a beloved destination for both locals and tourists, offering a wide array of premium chocolates, factory seconds, and bulk selections at discounted prices. Its shelves were filled with treats ranging from Mint Meltaways to signature Milk Chocolate Continental Almonds, making it a haven for chocolate enthusiasts. Community Impact The closure of the outlet store signifies more than just the loss of a retail establishment; it represents the end of a cherished local institution. For years, the store has been a popular stop for visitors exploring the Trent Hills region, contributing to the local economy and adding to the area's charm. Its presence has been integral to the community's identity, and its absence will undoubtedly be felt by residents and visitors alike. Looking Ahead As the store prepares to close, customers are encouraged to visit before December 31 to enjoy their favorite chocolates and perhaps stock up on beloved treats. While the closure marks the end of an era, the legacy of World's Finest Chocolate in Campbellford will remain a sweet memory for many. For more information or inquiries, customers can contact the store directly at (705) 653-3590. Note: The information provided is based on available sources and direct communication with store representatives. Say Goodbye to a Sweet Icon: Share Your Memories of the World's Finest Chocolate Factory Outlet: The World's Finest Chocolate Factory Outlet Store in Campbellford, Ontario, has been a cherished destination for decades. As we prepare to bid farewell to this beloved establishment on December 31, 2024, let's celebrate its sweet legacy by sharing our favorite memories and experiences. 📲 Share Your Memories on Social Media: Facebook: Post your stories and photos from your visits to the store. Did you find the perfect gift or stock up on your favorite treats? Share on Facebook Twitter/X: Share a tweet about your favorite chocolate or a moment that made this store special to you. Tweet Your Memory Instagram Stories: Create a story showcasing your favorite World's Finest Chocolate treats and tag your friends to join in the nostalgia. Use the Hashtag: When sharing your memories online, use #SweetFarewellWorldsFinestChocolate to join others in celebrating the legacy of the World's Finest Chocolate Factory Outlet. As we say goodbye to this sweet icon, let’s keep its legacy alive by sharing the joy, laughter, and sweetness it brought into our lives. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Sponsored Advertisement: If you would like to advertise with us in our articles please call 7056329018

Update: The snow squall warning is set to end around 9am on December 5th, 2024 Attention, Ontario! Environment Canada has replaced the Snow Squall Watch with a full-on Snow Squall Warning as of Tuesday, December 3, 2024. It’s time to hunker down and prepare for Mother Nature’s midweek winter spectacle. What’s the Scoop? Starting early Wednesday morning at 5am and as late as 8am in some areas, snow squalls are expected to barrel across the region, bringing heavy snowfall, blowing snow, and plummeting visibility. These lake effect snow squalls, courtesy of Lake Ontario, are forecast to drop 10 to 20 cm of snow, with peak rates hitting a staggering 2 to 5 cm per hour. If you’re planning to brave the roads, think again—travel conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly. When and Where? The snow squalls are expected to begin early Wednesday morning, and wreak havoc during the morning commute specifically across Highway 401 near the communities listed below, and these conditions will most likely persist throughout the day. By Wednesday evening, the squalls may retreat temporarily before staging a comeback overnight. The following areas are in the warning zone: Belleville Charleston Lake Cobourg Colborne Consecon Eastern Northumberland County Frontenac Islands Gananoque Kingston Madoc Mallorytown Napanee Odessa Picton Quinte West Sandbanks Park South Frontenac Stirling Sydenham Tamworth Tweed Western Northumberland County Westport What to Expect: Visibility reduced to near zero in heavy and blowing snow. Conditions that swing from clear skies to a whiteout in mere kilometers. Snow piling up faster than you can shovel! How to Prepare: Delay unnecessary travel if possible. Keep emergency supplies in your car (just in case). Stay updated with weather alerts and forecasts from Environment Canada. Have a severe weather report? Share it with us at Smalltownproductionscanada@mail.com Small Town Takeaway This snow squall isn’t just a typical dusting; it’s a full-fledged winter challenge. Whether you’re a seasoned snow driver or a stay-at-home hibernator, stay safe, stay warm, and keep an eye on the skies. Winter’s here, Ontario—are you ready? Spread the Word: Safety in Numbers Winter storms can be unpredictable, and staying informed is key to staying safe. Help your friends, family, and neighbors prepare for the snow squalls by sharing this warning and important safety tips. Whether it’s a quick message, a post on social media, or a call to someone who might need a heads-up, your effort could make a big difference. Together, we can ensure everyone in our community is ready for the challenges ahead. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Sponsored Advertisement:

Gravenhurst, Ontario, is grappling with the aftermath of a relentless snowstorm that has buried the town under heavy snow. For the past few days, residents have been without power, as the storm’s devastation has left roads blocked and power lines down. Town officials have declared a state of emergency, and efforts to restore normalcy are ongoing. Hydro crews estimate that power restoration will be completed by Wednesday. Here at Small Town Productions, we are deeply moved by the resilience of Gravenhurst’s residents during these challenging times. We understand the toll this has taken on individuals and families, and we are committed to helping in any way we can. Crews are working around the clock to clear snow-clogged roads and repair critical infrastructure. However, the damage is extensive, and progress has been slow. Emergency shelters like the Centennial Centre have been opened to provide warmth and refuge for those in need. Residents are urged to stay home, conserve resources, and check on vulnerable neighbors to ensure their safety. Supporting Gravenhurst To aid in the recovery efforts, Small Town Productions is redirecting 20 percent of all donations made through this article to the town of Gravenhurst and its residents. These funds will directly support snow removal and power restoration initiatives, helping to speed up relief efforts and assist those most in need. If you would like to contribute, your donation can make a tangible difference in rebuilding and restoring the community. Lead By Example: Share the Spirit of Community In moments of crisis, the strength of a community can make all the difference. Here’s how you can help: Donate: Your contributions through this article will go directly toward Gravenhurst’s recovery. Every bit counts. Share: Spread this story to raise awareness and inspire others to support the town during this critical time. Help: Check in on your neighbors, clear driveways, or share resources with those in need. Inspire: Show others the power of compassion and unity through your actions. While these past few days have tested the spirit of Gravenhurst, they have also highlighted the incredible resilience and kindness of its people. Together, with support and determination, this community will overcome the challenges and emerge stronger than ever. Stay safe, take care of one another, and know that brighter days are on the horizon. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

#BREAKING: This morning at 2:30 a.m., Mayor Heidi Lorenz declared a state of emergency for the Town of Gravenhurst, activating the town’s virtual Emergency Operations Centre. The decision was made to secure additional resources and support to combat the severe winter storm that has blanketed the community. At Small Town Productions, we stand with our neighbors in Gravenhurst during this critical time. Small towns like ours thrive on resilience, but sometimes, even the strongest communities need a helping hand. Why the Emergency Was Declared The declaration enables Gravenhurst to request extra resources from the province and neighboring municipalities. These resources are essential to: Clear roads blocked by deep snow, fallen trees, and power lines. Address the closure of Highway 11, a vital transportation route for equipment, emergency vehicles, and supplies. Enhance emergency response capabilities stretched thin by the storm’s impact. How We Can Help Each Other Emergency Services Are Limited: First responders are doing their best, but hazardous conditions mean delays. Stay safe, avoid risky situations, and help keep emergency lines clear for those in immediate danger. Snowplows Are Working Nonstop: Town crews and contractors are battling the storm to restore mobility, but progress is slow. Please avoid parking on streets or blocking access for snow removal teams. Avoid All Travel: If you can stay home, please do. Road conditions are dangerous for everyone. Your cooperation helps emergency crews and snowplows do their jobs safely. Fire and Heating Safety: With the storm impacting utilities, we understand many may turn to alternative heat sources. Please avoid unattended candles, makeshift heaters, or any practice that could lead to a fire. Highway 11 Remains Closed: The prolonged closure of Highway 11 has made movement across Gravenhurst extremely challenging. Town officials are working tirelessly to reopen this critical route and bring in additional resources. Mutual Aid Is in Motion: Gravenhurst is collaborating with neighboring towns to bring in extra equipment, personnel, and support to speed up snow-clearing efforts and bolster emergency response capabilities. Together, We’ll Weather This Storm This declaration is about bringing more hands, tools, and hope to Gravenhurst. It’s a reminder that small towns have big hearts, and together, we can get through anything. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 9-1-1. For updates, stay tuned to Small Town Productions as we continue to report on the incredible efforts of this community. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

The Canadian Holiday Train is back on track, sparkling with festive lights and bringing live music and holiday joy to communities across Ontario. This cherished holiday tradition combines entertainment and goodwill, lighting up rail stations and raising funds for local food banks across Canada. With live performances from artists like American Authors, KT Tunstall, Tyler Shaw, and Shawnee Kish, each stop invites residents to experience the magic of the holidays while supporting their communities. From large cities to charming small towns, here’s when the train will be stopping in Ontario: Ontario Holiday Train Stops and Schedule November 23 Milton: Glen Eden Ski & Snowboard Centre, 5234 Kelso Road | 5:00 PM - 5:30 PM Hamilton: West Kinnear Yard | 8:00 PM - 8:40 PM November 24 Cambridge/Galt: 10 Malcom Street | 4:15 PM - 4:45 PM Ayr: Inglis Street & Willison Street | 5:30 PM - 6:00 PM Woodstock: 199 Winniett Street | 6:50 PM - 7:10 PM London: Richmond Street & Piccadilly Street | 8:30 PM - 9:00 PM November 25 Chatham: Holiday Inn & Convention Center, 565 Richmond Street | 2:45 PM - 3:15 PM Windsor: Erie Street West & Janette Avenue | 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM November 28 Finch: James Street between William & George Street | 2:45 PM - 3:15 PM Merrickville: 103 East Broadway & Country Road 2 | 5:00 PM - 5:30 PM Smiths Falls: 63 Victoria Avenue | 6:30 PM - 7:00 PM Perth: Wilson Street Railroad Crossing | 8:00 PM - 8:30 PM November 29 Belleville: Keegan Parkway | 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM Trenton: Railway Crossing on R.C.A.F. Road | 10:45 AM - 11:15 AM Brighton: Prince Edward Street | 11:45 AM - 12:15 PM Bowmanville: Scugog Road & Wellington Street | 2:00 PM - 2:30 PM Oshawa: 680 Laval Drive | 3:15 PM - 3:45 PM Toronto (Lambton): 750 Runnymede Road | 8:30 PM - 9:00 PM November 30 Vaughan: Nashville Road | 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM MacTier: CPKC Station | 3:00 PM - 3:20 PM Parry Sound: Festival Station - 1 Avenue Road | 4:30 PM - 5:00 PM Shawanaga: Village Road | 5:30 PM - 6:00 PM Rutter: Rutter Train Station | 7:10 PM - 7:40 PM Sudbury: 233 Elgin Street | 9:15 PM - 9:45 PM December 1 Cartier: 3 Spencer Avenue | 10:45 AM - 11:15 AM Chapleau: 50 Dufferin Street | 4:15 PM - 4:45 PM White River: 102 Winnipeg Street | 9:00 PM - 9:30 PM December 2 Mobert: Band Office | 9:15 AM - 9:45 AM Heron Bay: ESSO Building | 11:15 AM - 11:45 AM Marathon: Curling Club - Stevens Avenue | 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM Schreiber: North Shore Harvest Food Cupboard Building | 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM Nipigon: CPKC TMS Buildings, 60 Front Street | 5:45 PM - 6:15 PM Thunder Bay: 440 Syndicate Avenue | 8:45 PM - 9:15 PM December 3 Ignace: CPKC Train Station | 9:15 AM - 9:45 AM Dryden: Queen Street & Earl Avenue | 11:45 AM - 12:15 PM Vermillion Bay: Bay Street Railway Crossing | 1:15 PM - 1:45 PM Kenora: Wholesale store, 8th Avenue South | 3:45 PM - 4:15 PM Ingolf: Mile 31.3 | 5:00 PM - 5:35 PM From there, the Holiday Train will continue its journey across Canada, spreading holiday joy in communities in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia until December 20. The Spirit of Giving A central theme of the Holiday Train is giving back. At each stop, donations of non-perishable food items and monetary contributions go directly to local food banks. By attending, guests can celebrate the season while supporting community members in need. Spread the Magic of the Season The Holiday Train brings joy to communities far and wide, and we encourage you to help spread the magic. Share this article with friends and family so that everyone can join in the festivities and make this season extra special. By spreading the word, you’ll be helping more families experience the magic of the Holiday Train while also supporting those in need. Let’s keep the spirit of giving alive and share the magic this holiday season! This magical event is a family favorite, and whether it's your first or fifth time, the Holiday Train promises an unforgettable celebration filled with music, lights, and the warmth of community. For the latest details, visit the official CPKC Holiday Train website. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Sponsored Advertisement:

On Friday, November 15, 2024, over 55,000 Canada Post employees commenced a nationwide strike after contract negotiations with their employer failed to reach an agreement. This labor action, led by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW), highlights ongoing tensions over wage increases, cost-of-living adjustments, and safer working conditions. The strike, announced following a 72-hour notice earlier this week, is expected to disrupt mail and parcel deliveries across the country, particularly as the busy holiday season approaches. Canada Post confirmed delays in service, noting that mail and packages will not be delivered, and some post offices will remain closed during the strike. The corporation also emphasized that a prolonged disruption could impact its national network, requiring time to resume normal operations after the strike concludes. Federal Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon has appointed a special mediator to assist in the negotiations, underlining the government’s commitment to supporting a fair resolution. "Canadians need them to reach an agreement," MacKinnon said, urging both parties to work toward a deal. The CUPW claims that nearly a year of bargaining has yielded little progress. The union’s demands include wage increases in line with inflation, cost-of-living adjustments incorporated into base wages, and improved workplace safety measures. This strike is part of a larger wave of labor disputes across Canada, including recent actions at major ports and railway companies, many of which have prompted government intervention. As negotiations continue, the outcome of the Canada Post strike remains uncertain. Stay tuned to Small Town Productions for updates on this story and its potential impact on communities across Canada. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Sponsored Advertisement:

The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) has issued a 72-hour strike notice to Canada Post, signaling that negotiations between the two parties have yet to reach a satisfactory conclusion. The union, which represents thousands of Canada Post employees nationwide, has voiced concerns over a range of issues, including pay adjustments, improved benefits, and work conditions, especially for part-time and temporary staff. CUPW argues that these changes are necessary to ensure fair compensation and a safer, more equitable workplace. Since the beginning of their discussions almost a year ago, both the union and Canada Post have engaged in ongoing talks with limited breakthroughs. While both sides have stated that they are committed to a negotiated settlement, progress has reportedly stalled. CUPW President Jan Simpson noted that the union is aiming to avoid a full-scale strike, with the notice being intended to encourage movement at the bargaining table. The union insists that its members are seeking fair treatment, particularly concerning rising living costs and job security. Canada Post, however, has expressed its own concerns, emphasizing the challenges of maintaining service commitments and managing costs. In a recent statement, Canada Post underscored its dedication to continuing negotiations, even as it seeks to balance employee needs with operational realities. A Canada Post spokesperson added that the corporation is hopeful both parties will find a way to resolve their differences without disrupting services that Canadians rely on. The strike notice means that postal services could potentially be interrupted if an agreement is not reached within the next few days. However, CUPW has stated that it would prefer to agree without resorting to a strike, and has called on Canada Post to meet its requests for fair treatment in good faith. Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon has also intervened, urging both parties to reach a settlement independently. He stated that the government believes in the importance of maintaining collective bargaining without intervention, allowing workers and employers to address their needs through direct negotiations. In his comments, MacKinnon emphasized that both the government and the public are hopeful that an amicable solution will be reached, minimizing disruption for Canadians and avoiding potential delays in postal services across the country. As the 72-hour period approaches, stakeholders nationwide, including businesses and residents who depend on reliable postal services, are closely monitoring the situation. The outcome of these negotiations will likely significantly impact Canada Post’s operations, employee satisfaction, and public trust in the organization’s ability to serve Canadians efficiently and effectively. Small Town Productions will continue to update this evolving story, as both parties work towards a potential resolution. Share to Stay Informed: We encourage you to share this article with others to help keep everyone in the know. Together, we can stay informed and make a difference. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

The holiday season is kicking off with a whole lineup of Santa Claus parades across the province, and it’s time to grab your coziest scarves, your fluffiest mittens, and get ready for some festive fun! Starting November 15 and running through early December, local communities are rolling out the red (and green) carpet for jolly old Saint Nick—and you won’t want to miss a single moment of the magic. From Brighton to Peterborough (and everywhere in between), these parades promise festive floats, sparkling lights, and enough holiday cheer to make even the Grinch crack a smile. Families, friends, and neighbors will line the streets to see Santa himself, along with all the winter wonderland decorations and delightful performances. Here’s your must-see Santa schedule: Santa Clause Schedule Brighton - November 15 at 7:00 PM Bowmanville - November 16 at 10:30 AM Oshawa - November 16 at 6:00 PM Havelock - November 16 at 7:00 PM Belleville - November 17 at 4:30 PM Newcastle - November 17 at 5:30 PM Campbellford - November 23 at 2:00 PM Colborne - November 23 at 7:00 PM Picton - November 24 at 1:00 PM Trenton - November 24 at 4:30 PM Bloomfield - November 29 at 6:00 PM Port Hope - November 30 at 1:00 PM Frankford - November 30 at 2:00 PM Cobourg - November 30 at 6:00 PM Norwood - November 30 at 7:00 PM Stirling - December 6 at 6:30 PM Warkworth - December 6 at 7:00 PM Whitby - December 7 at 10:00 AM Peterborough - December 7 at 4:45 PM Stouffville - December 7 at 6:00 PM Whether you’re here for the candy canes, the carols, or to see Santa himself, there’s a parade with your name on it! Gather your loved ones, bring along your holiday spirit, and let’s jingle all the way, to these festive celebrations. Spread the Cheer! ✨: Planning to hit up one of these Santa Claus parades with family or friends? Share this article with your holiday crew to plan the perfect parade day! Send it to everyone you want by your side—after all, the best way to jingle all the way is with the ones you love. Let’s make this season merry and bright together! 🎅 Let the parades begin! 🎄 To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Sponsored Advertisement: