Ghost and goblins will be out as this newspaper hits the streets.
Along with enjoying a night of fun, we encourage everyone to be safe. From kids darting to and fro and drivers navigating streets at dusk, let’s not be in too big a rush.
For adults, cheques may not arrive in time for Halloween, but early in the year before the election is called a treat should appear in the mail. Some see it as a trick.
Premier Ford has ordered a $200 cheque for voters. The actual amount may vary, but the intent is to stimulate the economy with a little extra jingle.
Some may like it, for sure some need it, but for most voters the money would be far better invested in health care. Along with the requisite costs associated with procuring and mailing cheques, a tidy sum will be consumed by the bureaucracy that makes these initiatives happen.
Remember the savings on plate stickers? That move cost the treasury over $1 billion in lost revenue. While many drivers are happy with the $120 savings per year per vehicle, those funds added mightily to the financial condition of the province. It too was a gimmick that people seemed to accept without connecting the dots.
Less money, less services, seems to be the outcome.
What is that?
It was an innocent enough question considering the lapel on our jacket hid a red adornment from view.
Once displayed better, the kid knew right away – it’s a poppy.
That made us happy and once prompted to explain what a poppy meant he hit all the high notes. It is a matter of remembering.
In the lead up to Remembrance Day, many businesses have poppies on offer, thanks to the Legion and its volunteers. Service members too, put in long hours at stores standing stoically giving Canadians a chance to access a poppy for their lapel.
Although we fully recognize the tightness of budgets for most households, the smallest of donations – way less than a cup of coffee – will suffice. Those who can help more should do so, since proceeds ultimately benefit veterans and their families.
Poppies should be everywhere this time of year.
