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This is a not going to be a polished post. I’ve been creating an inventory of my interests, needs, weak spots, strengths, etc., in order to articulate, or even just grasp or glimpse what I want to be doing with my days and hours — at this particular stage in my life, this time of aging and flux. So here is a list of goals, the aspirations that I am able to articulate and maybe, with hope and support and gentleness and time, move toward. I’m going to name this list as being things that I want, even though it makes me feel distinctly uncomfortable.

I want …

… a fine life

… relaxation and contentment

… ample rest, a quick and nourished mind

… sweat, adrenalin, endorphins, breath, balance, physical exertion, core strength

… treatment of pain, and ongoing healing for mind and body

… to model and recognize other’s choices that honour: presence, generative actions, creative play, fun and humour, healthy practices and routines

… strong rooted lasting friendships, to be a good friend (by listening, walking with, caring for, giving space to, allowing to be); to let my friends help me too, be honest with them, share my fears sometimes

… strong healthy bonds with my children and other family members, no matter my role (as mother, daughter, spouse, sister, etc.)

… to live with creative bursts without floating into self-indulgence and disconnection, without being self-serving

… to be someone people feel comfortable and happy spending time with; to put others at ease

… to inhabit and build inviting spaces where people get to be themselves, feel welcome to be relaxed, to come and go, rest, laugh, talk, eat good food (as at the cottage); cry, laugh; feel so held and loved—this is aspirational, but I’d love to be that person for others

… to conceive of, surrender to, and finish ambitious projects (like novels) – for the joy of discovery day by day, and for the sense of accomplishment when all the threads have been woven together; for therapeutic reasons, and to explore what’s underneath and otherwise invisible and unknown and mysterious within my soul and body and the collective life force, because it feels necessary and relieving and cleansing and satisfying and good, and because writing is my way in, the practice that I’ve practiced more than any other

… to not behave like a martyr or fixate on sacrifice; surrender is a different beast

xo, Carrie

PS The watercolour is my version of characters from The Day My Mom Came to Kindergarten, written by Maureen Fergus with illustrations by Mike Lowery, which I read to classrooms in September. Most every week, I add a new character to the library’s story-time bulletin board – from a book we’ve read the previous week. (See below.) This is a practice I’ll miss and be seeking to replace when I move on from the library job.

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Following All Hallows’ Eve, November 1 and 2 mark important days for people in Mexico, the Philippines and many other countries that have a strong Roman Catholic influence.

Known as dias de los muertos – “days of the dead” – the dates are both a solemn and festive occasion to celebrate loved ones who have died. And food plays an important role.

All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day are important dates in these cultures and are recognized with trips to cemeteries where chocolate and sugar skulls are presented and nibbled on as gifts to the dearly departed. Beverages such as tequila are also offered.

Smaller skulls are offered to deceased children, while larger and more intricate and decoratively elaborate skulls represent adults. In good pastry and candy fashion, the designs are usually not too scary, but maintain a lighter and sometimes humorous tone.

Of course, such a celebration is an ancient one that dates to pre-Columbian times (before Christopher Columbus’s arrival in North America). Thousands of years ago, rituals that observed and celebrated the dead were part of these ancient cultures.

Today in Mexico, the festival is a public holiday, though North American culture is more reluctant to spend much time acknowledging the deceased.

We have a good selection of Mexican, Central American, Salvadoran and Filipino restaurants whose cultures share with us similar foods. So if you don’t want to visit a cemetery, you can enjoy pupusas, tamales, chicharron, enchiladas and other traditional dishes.

Check out my latest post Food for “Days of the Dead” from AndrewCoppolino.com.

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Our Mission: We empower women and girls through a trauma informed, inclusive and gender responsive lens. Our client-focused approach strengthens emotional, cultural and social well being, through prevention, support, reintegration and advocacy

The EFry Hope and Help for Women is seeking new Board Members who are passionate about our mission and values to join our Volunteer Board.

The EFry Hope and Help for Women is an independent, not for profit charitable organization that supports some of society’s most vulnerable populations – women, girls and children at risk, involved in or affected by the justice system. We run more than two dozen programs that work to break the cycle of poverty, addiction, mental illness, homelessness and crime.

EFry clients range in age from newborn to senior citizens. Most live in poverty. Some are homeless. Many are without support networks or the tools necessary to build a brighter future for themselves and their families. Virtually all are either at risk of becoming involved, involved or affected by the justice system.
EFry helps 5,000+ clients every year through our programs. Our funding comes from a combination of government contracts and private sector donations.

Volunteers are a vital part of the EFry family. Fifty-two (52) years ago, a small group of volunteers who were determined to make a difference created EFry after witnessing the treatment of women in the justice system. Today, volunteers remain at the heart of all we do, supporting our programs in prisons, at our facilities and in the community.

EFry Board members direct and lead in the Vision, Mission and Values, and work in collaboration with the Executive Director to ensure sound governance oversight. The board provides mission-based leadership and strategic insight, while day-to-day operations are led by the Executive Director. The Board – Management relationship is a partnership and the committed engagement of the board is both critical and expected.

Interested in joining the EFry Board? Ask yourself these questions:

• Do you have an understanding of our community and its needs, the importance of women-only services?
• Are you willing and able to commit time for at least four Board meetings/year plus committee meetings, planning sessions, and special events?
• Do you listen well, and are you thoughtful in considering issues such as long-term housing solutions for ex-prisoners?
• Can you add value to the board with your background in finance & accounting, property and asset management, government relations, health and/or social services?

If you feel inspired to help and believe you could be a contributing member of the EFry board, please send your resume and cover letter to Deborah Riddle at executivedirector@efryhope.com.

EFry Hope and Help for Women is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We especially welcome applications from Indigenous persons, people of colour, persons with disabilities, persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, and others with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities.

The post EFry appeared first on Capacity Canada.

Lots of maps and data posted on the walls. Lots of helpful? staff including Woolwich & Regional folks. I talked to a few people including one councillor, one staff person, one TRAC member and I confirmed that indeed whatever it's called from Alternative # 2 to Option 2 A or B it's a piece of crap at it's absolute worst regardless. 

The west side option is my first choice with the Union St. option up the east side of Elmira being second. The proposed new road running a little further east than Union St. and running through the Stroh and Martin farms is beyond disgraceful. The councillor I spoke with asked me the question whether they could start development and somehow/sort of clean up as they proceeded. I believe it was a sincere and serious question however I just wasn't in the mood for any more Woolwich nonsense regarding avoiding proper Uniroyal cleanup. Thirty-six years of lies and bullsh*t will do that to a person. I bluntly advised that putting the cart before the horse does not work. Investigate/sample and make a cleanup plan FIRST not either halfway through or at the end of the roadwork and development work required. 

Plus I have seen way too many alleged cleanups by Uniroyal, Crompton, Chemtura AND Lanxess that are simply window dressing. I have seen and heard too many lies by all parties especially the MECP (Min. of Environment). It's way past time to bring in someone knowledgeable, intelligent and for the love of God HONEST! After the chats and looking at the posters I left before the 7:30 pm. "presentation" . Bullsh*t no matter how strong the masking perfume is still BULLSH*T.

Further weakening in the Canadian economy has forced policy makers at the Bank of Canada to lower the overnight rate once again, bringing the crucial bench mark down to 2.25%. Trump and company were directly implicated, with trade uncertainty hurting economies worldwide. While consumer spending has remained robust, there is excess capacity in the economy. Wage growth has stalled with the unemployment level stuck at 7.1% despite far lower immigration numbers. GDP growth is expected to decline further going into 2026, before recovering once more.  Here is an excerpt from the B of C press release.

Canada’s economy contracted by 1.6% in the second quarter, reflecting a drop in exports and weak business investment amid heightened uncertainty. Meanwhile, household spending grew at a healthy pace. US trade actions and related uncertainty are having severe effects on targeted sectors including autos, steel, aluminum, and lumber. As a result, GDP growth is expected to be weak in the second half of the year. Growth will get some support from rising consumer and government spending and residential investment, and then pick up gradually as exports and business investment begin to recover.

Canada’s labour market remains soft. Employment gains in September followed two months of sizeable losses. Job losses continue to build in trade-sensitive sectors and hiring has been weak across the economy. The unemployment rate remained at 7.1% in September and wage growth has slowed. Slower population growth means fewer new jobs are needed to keep the employment rate steady.

The Bank projects GDP will grow by 1.2% in 2025, 1.1% in 2026 and 1.6% in 2027. On a quarterly basis, growth strengthens in 2026 after a weak second half of this year. Excess capacity in the economy is expected to persist and be taken up gradually.

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• 1-year fixed insured 4.69%
• 2-year fixed insured 4.29%
• 3-year fixed insured 3.69%
• 4-year fixed insured 3.94%
• 5-year fixed insured 3.69%
• 5-year variable insured 3.45%

Is the mortgage stress test still a thing in 2025? Yes it is, and with the higher rates we’ve seen, it’s even harder to qualify for a mortgage. The rules require you to qualify at either 2% above the rate your lender is offering you or 5.25%, whichever is higher.

Being forced to qualify at the higher stress test rate causes the principal portion of your monthly mortgage payment to shrink, lowering the maximum amount you’ll be allowed to borrow for your mortgage. But the rate you’ll actually pay once you buy is the rate you are offered by your lender. Your monthly payments will be calculated from this lower rate, not the stress test rate. As a result your monthly mortgage bill will be smaller too.

The stress test has been quite unpopular so the federal government has rolled out several new changes to make it easier to buy a home. They are now offering a first time buyer’s credit of $5000, and an increase in withdrawals from your RRSP to $35,000.

In addition existing borrowers are no longer required to re-qualify at the stress test rate when they renew or refinance their mortgages. This will allow borrowers some flexibility if they want to choose a different lender as they are no longer under the pressure of qualifying at an additional two percentage points.

If you’re looking for mortgage info or help please reach out.

The post Mortgage Rates appeared first on Andrew Shackleton.

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There is a great deal to grasp for the uninitiated. What are the procedures for adding or withdrawing funds? These gaming operators commonly have licenses from jurisdictions namely Malta or based in Curaçao. Banking protection matters equally, so find verified gateways. Approved online casinos comply with safety regulations, established by gaming commissions. Keep software updated to prevent breaches. When you ignore the terms, you may lose money.

The post Low Volatility Titles ✦ Australia 📣 appeared first on Kitchener Minor Baseball.

Online casinos and slots offer exciting gameplay, whether you’re chasing jackpots. Decentralized systems is making transactions transparent, and token-based payments are giving players faster deposits. But RTP is long-term, not every time. Portable gaming solutions allow gaming on the go, through apps. Casino visitors can improve choices using RTP, however it’s not session-specific. Several lies related to iGaming. At higher tiers, the richer the perks.

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High volatility slots reward big wins with fewer hits. Step one is to accept reality. “Normal” is for qualifying bets. Choose credible oversight like UKGC, MGA, or Gibraltar for robust standards. The bottom line is, cryptocurrency betting offers speed, privacy, and global access. In all cases, the game type chosen, players must stay responsible to maintain balance. Number cards are worth their face value. Bookmaker sites use fast data feeds to ensure punters see odds reflect the action quickly. Normally, it is offered after completing sign-up and place your initial deposit. The conversation around personal data protection is no longer only in the hands of regulatory bodies and compliance teams. Sometimes differences come from individual preference, and sometimes it shows real flaws.

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The deal glows, the adrenaline surges, and your inner voice whispers, “Why not start playing?” Two main data buckets exist to leverage. Review dispute steps for peace of mind. A positive image for fair treatment fast payments and good customer service is usually a sign of a platform that takes its responsibilities seriously and treasures the confidence of its users. The bottom line is, planned betting reduces risk. Jackpot reels, nevertheless, tend to be more profitable for casinos, since strategy can’t reduce risk. Still, many international jurisdictions maintain regular audits and provide equitable conflict resolution. In conclusion, new tech will make gambling more immersive. Participation is free to activate. These licensing bodies typically guarantee that the websites are honest, offer certified titles from reputable developers, and facilitate funding activities without any disruptions. Each player starts with two cards with the dealer likewise receiving two.

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Set periodic prompts to manage time. Verify both sides before finishing. Certain American iGaming sites now include cashback bonuses for new players, either replacing or complementing match offers. Wagering platforms apply mental strategies to keep players engaged. Some newcomers to gambling feel unsure for a long time to make a deposit in a new casino. For those using non-personal devices or users who prefer not to store apps, browser access remains a solid option.

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Accept variance to reduce stress. These modern replicas of retro fruit machines offer convenience, selection, and the chance for high returns, making them a beloved format among both occasional and regular users. Run-and-gun sides gas late, opening a window for the opponent. For gambling service operators, complying with GDPR is not limited to banner prompts, it means showing that information taken for security or self-ban isn’t secretly used for ads. Ultimately, the psychology of gambling is complex and powerful. Launched as primitive gambling format has become an international market. Digital casinos grant free spins to keep customers playing. At the same time, the volume of operators has multiplied. Validate paytables for fair odds. Technology development is fueled by iGaming, leading to better infrastructure.

Decide on a spending cap in advance. When playing small stakes, even small gains can be valuable. Fairness counts. All developers brings its own touch. Cash out modest profits within limits. Some game developers introduce special rounds, avoiding repetition. Since this operator secured its first casino license, we have concentrated on secure and responsible iGaming. Safe betting practices can reduce risks, such as using time caps. Growing prize slots collect a portion of each bet into a shared pot, often reaching record-breaking jackpots. Big wins spark happiness. Follow daily drops to maximize value.

Trusted payment systems let UK players to fund accounts quickly and securely to their balance. Fully virtual casinos recreate live venues, through VR goggles. If you are a reel games lover who likes no-cost spin promotions, these bonuses will definitely grow your gaming and resources. A repeated myth is believing timing changes payouts, because RNG ignores schedules. Whether you’re a casino veteran, or a explorer, the world of digital gaming has something for all tastes. With so many brands competing, gamblers need to think critically. Playthrough math is key: 30x on $100 = $3,000 bets. There are many myths regarding virtual gaming. To sum up, digital casinos shape both local and global markets. I opted for the game of blackjack. Scan QR exclusives to stack perks.

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Mindfulness is essential, because house edge exists. Resort casinos are legally protected, can be hard to audit. Mobile gaming is also thriving, with more players gaming anywhere. I pressed the start button, and on the play display turned up three sun symbols. Always question, “Would I play this if no promo existed?”. The goal of blackjack is to overcome the dealer’s cards while remaining at or below 21. Packages vary in type and generosity, but the end goal is the same. No matter if risking one cent, the same responsible gambling rules apply. The best way to fully use bonus deals is to read the terms together with align criteria based on your preferences.

3D casino systems allows real-time chatting, increasing engagement. Lines across the reels define winning combos. Lock gains periodically per policy. With smart use, they add excitement. Marketing bonuses are structured to appeal — and they accomplish it. The standard of service for players changes between different operators, but many invest heavily in offering multilingual, round-the-clock assistance to meet the needs of international gamblers. Tiered rewards return value to regulars through perks and bonuses. Approach unites speed and data. We curated a vetted catalog of brands and outline how we choose. The efficiency of customer service varies among offshore casinos, though numerous sites focus on delivering around-the-clock multilingual support to serve their diverse user base.

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Switching from slots to table games adds freshness. A lot of no-deposit offers cap the maximum withdrawal, capping how much you can withdraw from bonus wins. Exploring new titles is exciting, yet balancing novelty with staple favourites maintains engagement and builds confidence. These systems suspend gambling access. This is a obligation of gambling authorities who issue official licenses. Confirm geo access for provider catalogs. Stack WRs side-by-side to estimate EV. Elite casinos feature games from trusted studios as an example Microgaming. Crypto-based platforms is securing payments, and crypto wallets are increasing privacy. Decide your spending limit in advance and don’t break it.

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So the other day, I was deep in research mode, working on the system design for a dating app. Everything was going great with the user flows, backend structure, and data privacy until I reached the security section.

And that’s when a random thought hit me:

“What if dating apps let user change their app icon?”

This is something tiny, but it can have a huge impact.

Just think about it, you’re sitting in a café, scrolling through Bumble or Tinder, and your screen lights up. Or more embarrassing when you are in the office and someone hears that “grinder” chime.

Instant panic. How to cover it up.

We’ve all been there, and that tiny moment of judgment or embarrassment that comes with being “caught” using a dating app. It’s not even a big deal, but it still feels oddly personal.

So I thought, why not just hide it?

Like seriously, why not let users change the app logo to whatever they’re comfortable with and even go a step further by allowing them to customise the notification icon and sound?

Why not choose a weather app icon?

Basically, your Bumble becomes “WeatherNow.”
Your Tinder? “FinancePro.”

Your dating life? Still thriving, just private.

It’s kind of like those old days when people named private folders on their laptops “Study Material.” Everyone knew what it meant, but it worked.

This little thought could actually make people more comfortable using dating apps in public, especially in places where dating is still judged or frowned upon. It’s not about being sneaky; it’s about owning your privacy.

• Users could switch icons depending on their mood.
• Change the notification tone of dating apps to Gmail notification sounds.
• And honestly, it’d just be fun.

But underneath the humour, there’s something real here: privacy isn’t always about encryption and firewalls. Sometimes it’s about making people feel safe from judgment, not just hackers.

Sometimes bigger problems have smaller solutions, and those small solutions are just hidden beside those rock problems. So always take a 2nd look at product thinking.

So yeah, when I think about future dating app features, forget fancy filters and AI matches. Just give me a little digital disguise.

Because sometimes love deserves a Weather App icon. ☁️💛

What If Dating Apps Let You Change Their App Icon? was originally published in Code Like A Girl on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

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Topography:    "a description of all the surface features, natural and artificial, of a particular region".  Also

                "the science of drawing maps and/or diagrams which represent these features ".

So what is so difficult for our so called educated councillors, consultants, Ministry of Environment, experts and others in positions of authority to understand? Why are they ignoring the most obvious evidence of gravity flowing, toxic liquid wastes having overflowed from the east side pits (RPE 1-5) onto the Stroh property for almost the whole length of the Uniroyal/Lanxess east side property line? These same biased and apparently blind persons have already admitted to overflow crossing from Uniroyal Chemical eastwards onto the Stroh property and done a minor excavation (15 cm. or 5.9 inches deep) and removed DDT and Dioxins in the soil in 2019, fifty years after the ending of the overflowing east side pits. This overflowing was based upon approximately 165,000 gallons per day of liquid wastes being pumped through two pipelines over to these open to the sky, pits. Plus without a cover over them simple rainstorms would help overflow these pits. Finally Uniroyal, the MECP and Lanxess have all admitted that the pits did indeed overflow and run southwards and eastwards. 

The answer to Why? is unfortunate. It's called corruption and being a "captured" regulator. The Ontario Ministry of Environment (MECP) shares guilt and culpability with Uniroyal Chemical. The former M.O.E. made deals not in the public interest decades ago (1950s-1980s) with Uniroyal Chemical. They were afraid to fight them in court because Uniroyal had a larger legal budget than they did. Yes folks that is the reality of government enforcement of laws against wealthy multinational corporations.

The drawing of maps and/or diagrams as stated in the second line above refers to topographical contour lines. These lines show both the big picture of ground surface elevations as well as smaller areas of either depressions or higher ground. The big picture is demonstrated by contour lines that indicate where the ground elevation changes, either rising or falling. Liquids of course gravity flow from higher ground towards lower ground. Apparently self-interested and self-serving polluters, politicians and corrupt regulators are incapable of reading and understanding these quite simple maps. Or so they would have us believe. 

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♦Adventurers Club
Mondays and Fridays
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
KW Habilitation – 99 Ottawa St. S, Kitchener

The Adventurers Club is all about having fun! The club gets together on Mondays and Fridays from 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM. There is an option to come one or both of the days. The group collectively decides on what adventures they want to go on. Some favourites include hanging out at the mall, going bowling, checking out the Museum, or heading to the gym or park to play some sports! Other past activities include mini golfing, drumming, baking and going to the Library to use the Meta VR Headset. Last session, a group member suggested a bon fire. The group loved the idea, so they went to Came Ki-Wa-Y, had a bon fire and made smores! The possibilities go on and on.

Not sure if The Adventurer’s Club is right for you? Send us any questions you have or request a free trial by emailing connecting@outandaboutwr.ca

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♦Merry and Bright Craft Market
Saturday, November 8
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
FREE Admission
Conestoga Banquet Hall – 617 King St. N, Waterloo

Celebrate the coming of the Holiday Season with this Merry and Bright Craft Market. They will have a mailbox for letters to Santa, raffle draws, local crafters and more. Make some Holiday Magic by bringing a new toy to donate to the Toy Drive to support local children and families in need. This market has everything you need to clebrate local and gift crafted.

Click here for more info

♦Karaoke Dance Party
Saturday, November 8
6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
$25
Our Studio – 109 Ottawa St. S, Kitchener, Studio B

Enjoy some yummy pizza, awesome people and your favourite songs to sing and dance to! Don’t forget to bring your water bottle. Join us the first Saturday of every month, no reservation required. If you have any dietary restrictions, contact Lori Maloney ahead of time at LMYC50@gmail.com.

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♦Majestic Tiles Club
Monday, November 3
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
FREE
John M. Harper Library – 500 Fischer-Hallman Rd. N, Waterloo

Step into the world of strategy, skill, and tradition with the Majestic Tiles Club! Whether you’re brand new to Mahjong or a seasoned player, this friendly group is the perfect place to learn, play, and connect. Each session includes a quick overview of the rules, tile meanings, and gameplay techniques—followed by relaxed, friendly games. This program being offered on multiple days and at multiple locations. Please register for each program separately.

Click here for more info

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♦The Waterloo Neighbourhood Summit is an annual event for residents across Waterloo to discuss all things neighbourhoods. Various workshops, presentations, social opportunities, and resources for community building are available.  The 2025 Neighbourhood Summit is being hosted on November 5 from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex Community Pavilion – 101 Father David Bauer Dr. Waterloo. All Waterloo residents are invited to attend this event for free.

Whether you are new to neighbourhood activities or part of an established group or association, there is plenty to talk about and learn. Speakers from local organizations will share information about supporting accessible and inclusive neighbourhood activities. There will be lots of opportunities for networking with fellow neighbours while enjoying light refreshments. Explore the various information booths to see what resources are available to you and your neighbours. Register for free to attend this year’s Waterloo Neighbourhood Summit!

Click here for more info

The post October 29, 2025: What’s Happening in Your Neighbourhood? appeared first on KW Habilitation.

When I first stepped onto the stage at Women Who Code Summit @ TechFutures 2025 in New York City, I didn’t expect the experience to reshape how I see both public speaking and AI innovation.

This year’s summit, hosted by Women Who Code and LWT, brought together brilliant minds across technology, leadership and culture.

My session focused on a challenge nearly every organization is facing today: how to make enterprise data usable for the next generation of AI systems.

We explored how a dedicated query language and a semantic layer can help bridge the gap between scattered enterprise data and intelligent systems built on RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) architectures.

I invited the audience to join in through a quick interactive demo and live polls. Together, we saw how better data design directly translates into smarter, more explainable AI outcomes.

The most striking takeaway? Data accessibility is everyone’s need, whether you build AI, manage systems, or make decisions from the insights they produce.

The audience’s curiosity blew me away. Their top questions:

• Where exactly is the LLM being used and which model?
• What happens when the underlying database is migrated?
• Which database stores the extracted data?

These weren’t surface-level questions; they reflected deep engagement from the audience.

A highlight was that a Wells Fargo Executive Director attended the talk specifically for this session (🤯) and later shared how his team was struggling to unify disparate internal databases. Our post-talk chat evolved into a brainstorming session on building a custom tool for data unification. That exchange reminded me how sharing knowledge can spark real innovation across organizations.

The trip itself had its share of memorable moments: the quiet pre-conference jitters, the unexpected well-wishes from fellow travellers, the last-minute slide rehearsals that suddenly click into place. It’s funny how even small interactions outside the conference room can ground you before stepping into a big moment.

At the event, I also connected with other speakers. We exchanged slide feedback before our sessions, supported each other during talks, took photos, and even discussed startup ideas over coffee. That sense of community was powerful: collaborative, not competitive.

People carve out time to listen. You owe them value for that investment. It’s not just about confidence; it’s about clarity, delivery, and empathy.

Own your space. The audience trusts you to guide them through your area of expertise, so speak from that place of authority and passion.

By the end of my talk, I realized how much public speaking shapes you: not just professionally but personally. The experience was equal parts growth, adrenaline, and fulfillment.

The post-talk conversations reminded me how real progress happens through open dialogue and collaboration.

Speaking at TechFutures Summit 2025 reminded me why I fell in love with this field (it’s not just about algorithms and systems), it’s about curiosity, connection, and contribution.

For anyone considering speaking at conferences: do it. It pushes your comfort zone, hones your voice, and fuels you to keep innovating.

“Give your audience something worth their time, because when knowledge meets purpose, everyone leaves inspired.”

Thank you for reading! If you found this helpful, here are some next steps you can take:

1. Send some claps my way!
2. Follow me on Medium and connect with me on LinkedIn!

From Stage to Insight: My Experience Speaking at WomenWhoCode Summit 2025 was originally published in Code Like A Girl on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

TEAO Canada is seeking values-aligned individuals to join our non-traditional, community-rooted Board of Directors.

• Director of Finance
• Director of Fund Development & Strategic Partnerships
• Director of Evaluation & Impact Strategy

The Trauma & Embodiment Association of Ontario (TEAO Canada) is a grassroots, trauma-responsive, and community-based organization dedicated to reimagining mental health care through embodiment, equity, and collective care. We focus on creating systems that heal rather than harm — building trauma-responsive training, peer support certification, and embodied leadership development across Ontario.

TEAO is in a transition phase, moving from grassroots organizing toward a formalized nonprofit/charity structure. We are building governance systems that reflect accountability, transparency, and sustainability — without recreating the extractive systems we’re working to transform.

We’re looking for individuals who are passionate about community wellness, equity, and trauma-informed leadership.

New Board terms are anticipated to begin November 15, 2025, pending completion of agreements, onboarding, and orientation.

To learn more or express interest, please email:
📧 info@teaocanada.com
🌐 www.teaocanada.com

The post TEAO appeared first on Capacity Canada.

Downtown Kitchener has changed dramatically in the last decade — evolving from an industrial hub into a walkable, creative core driven by innovation and culture. At the centre of that transformation stands Charlie West Condos, a 31-storey glass tower that captures the best of modern city living. With its prime location at 60 Charles Street West, the building combines architecture, lifestyle, and convenience in a way that feels perfectly suited to how people want to live today.

Momentum Developments has been shaping downtown Kitchener’s skyline for over a decade, and Charlie West represents one of their most ambitious projects yet. The building includes more than 300 residential suites, with layouts ranging from efficient studios to spacious 2-bedroom + den designs.

It’s also home to the Scott McGillivray Collection — a curated selection of upper-level suites designed in partnership with HGTV personality Scott McGillivray. These units feature 10-foot ceilings, open layouts, and upgraded finishes selected for style, quality, and function. The collection gives the top floors of the tower a unique edge, blending urban sophistication with practical design.

Inside, Charlie West carries the same modern, approachable feel as its exterior. Suites are bright and open, designed with large windows that draw in natural light and layouts that make the space feel functional and relaxed. Many include private balconies with views of downtown or Victoria Park, adding a genuine connection to the city outside.

Kitchens are finished in a clean, contemporary style — sleek cabinetry, stylish tile backsplashes, and stainless-steel appliances that complement the overall design. The flooring throughout the main living spaces is modern and durable, tying everything together in a way that feels cohesive and practical. On the upper floors, the Scott McGillivray Collection introduces higher ceilings, upgraded finishes, and a more curated interior palette that gives those suites an elevated edge.

The building’s amenities make downtown living easy. There’s a bright, well-equipped fitness centre, a rooftop terrace with sweeping city views, and a community BBQ area that brings residents together in the warmer months. Pet owners will also appreciate the outdoor pet area, a thoughtful addition that makes the building even more livable for downtown dog owners.

A daytime concierge is on-site Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays — coordinating day-to-day building support and knowing most residents by name. It’s a small detail, but one that adds a personal, community feel to city living.

What makes Charlie West stand out isn’t just what’s inside — it’s how the building connects to the downtown landscape around it.

Just outside the building, Tasty Deli and 271 West bring local flavour to the streetscape. Tasty Deli is a European delicatessen known for fresh sandwiches, cured meats, and imported goods, while 271 West is an Italian restaurant with handmade pasta, a curated wine list, and a welcoming patio that comes alive in the summer. Both add to the vibrancy of the block and give residents a taste of downtown right at their doorstep.

Directly across the street sits the Gaukel Block, a pedestrian-only corridor that’s become one of Kitchener’s most creative public spaces. Since its official opening in 2023, it’s hosted local markets, pop-up art installations, and community events in a vibrant setting of repurposed kiosks and flexible seating. At the heart of the block is the Hangout Heart — a bright, climbable sculpture designed to be both playful and eye-catching, perfectly visible from the building’s front windows.

Out front, Charlie West’s own streetscape extends the same energy. The entrance blends decorative paving, planters, and bench seating with a striking mural on the exterior wall. Every detail contributes to what makes Charlie West work so well downtown. It feels like part of the neighbourhood, not just another high-rise on the skyline.

Living at Charlie West means being part of Kitchener’s Innovation District, where some of the region’s most prominent tech companies have set down roots. Within minutes, you can walk to Google Canada’s headquarters, D2L (Desire2Learn), Vidyard, Communitech, and Deloitte. The mix of global firms and fast-growing startups has made this part of the city a hub for professionals drawn to the area’s blend of opportunity and livability.

Commuting is also effortless. The ION LRT stops just outside the building, connecting residents to Uptown Waterloo, the University District, and beyond. The GO Train station is a short walk away, providing direct service to Toronto — ideal for hybrid commuters. Major roadways like Highway 7/8 and the Conestoga Parkway are easily accessible, offering quick routes across the region.

This kind of connectivity is what continues to attract both buyers and investors to downtown condos. Whether you’re walking to work, grabbing a coffee on your way to the train, or meeting friends at a local restaurant, everything here is designed around convenience.

Within a few blocks of Charlie West, you’ll find some of Kitchener’s most recognized local spots, from boutique groceries to Michelin-recommended dining.

Odd Duck Wine & Provisions, recently listed in the Michelin Guide, serves refined small plates and thoughtfully chosen wines in a laid-back setting that perfectly fits the downtown vibe. Grand Surf Lounge brings West Coast energy to the city with colourful cocktails and a coastal-inspired menu, while TWH Social — tucked beneath the Walper Hotel — delivers a moody, speakeasy-style experience for dinner or drinks.

For daily errands, Marche Leo’s offers a boutique grocery experience with curated produce, artisanal snacks, and ready-to-go meals. Legacy Greens, another local staple, focuses on fresh Ontario-grown produce and small-batch pantry items. And for coffee lovers, Smile Tiger Coffee Roasters is just a short walk away — a local favourite for everything from morning espresso to weekend pastries.

Downtown Kitchener is also home to Apollo Cinema, an independent theatre that screens cult classics, new releases, and community events, and the Berlin Tower ARTSPACE, which showcases rotating exhibitions from local and regional artists. Just down the street, Carl Zehr Square hosts seasonal festivals like the Christkindl Market, and Victoria Park offers green space, walking trails, and scenic water views — all within minutes of your front door.

Here, urban living doesn’t mean sacrificing calm. It’s everything you love about the city, grounded in a neighbourhood that feels connected and walkable.

Charlie West continues to draw attention from both end-users and investors. Its proximity to major employers, public transit, and growing downtown amenities keeps demand steady. The combination of architecture, community design, and walkability gives it staying power — a key factor for long-term value.

Momentum Developments has proven itself as a consistent presence in the city’s urban growth story. Projects like One Victoria and Garment Street set the tone for what downtown Kitchener could become — and Charlie West built on that vision.

Charlie West isn’t just about convenience — it’s about being part of a city that’s still growing and redefining itself. Living here means being steps from your favourite restaurant, walking to work at a global tech firm, catching the train without stress, and ending the day with a view of the sunset over Victoria Park.

It’s the kind of downtown living that balances energy with ease — modern, walkable, and built around community.

The post Charlie West Kitchener: A New Era of Downtown Living appeared first on Kitchener Waterloo Real Estate Agent - The Deutschmann Team.

Are you passionate about Toronto’s stories and heritage?

Architectural Conservancy Ontario’s Toronto Branch currently seeks a qualified individual to join the ACOTO Board in the role of Treasurer.
ACOTO is the founding branch of the Architectural Conservancy Ontario (“ACO”). Since 1933 this volunteer-led charity has been involved in preserving Toronto’s architectural and environmental heritage by helping communities and owners preserve stories, buildings and structures of architectural merit and places of natural beauty or cultural interest. For example, ACOTO was actively involved in saving Union Station from demolition. The organization strategically uses education through its annual Symposium, publications and TO Built database and advocacy to celebrate and encourage the conservation and re-use of structures and landscapes of cultural, architectural, and historic significance, to benefit all Torontonians. ACOTO is a branch of the Architectural Conservancy Ontario. It is linked to a network of branches and members throughout Ontario.

The Treasurer acts as a financial advisor to ACOTO’s Board. As ACOTO contracts a book keeper and annual financial statements are prepared by ACO Inc.’s external auditor, the ACOTO Treasurer is the communicator and interpreter of financial information for the branch board. Duties include:

• preparation and monitoring of the branch annual budget,
• quarterly reporting of branch financial status and investment returns;
• surveying ACOTO board risk appetite and the implementation of investment strategy;
• compilation of support documents external auditor’s annual audit;
• liaison with the bookkeeper and external investment advisor;
• advising on the financial implications of strategic issues considered by the ACOTO board;
• monitoring branch controls and adherence governing legislation and ACO Inc. financial policies (notably, Charities Section of the Canada Tax Act, Ontario Labour Code, and the Ontario Not-for- Profit Corporations Act).

These duties, as well as participating in ten ACO Board meetings a year, require approximately 7-12 hours per month. There is no remuneration for ACO Toronto Board roles.

The ideal candidate would have the following qualifications:

• CPA, CMA, CGA, CFA or equivalent financial credential;
• 3-5 years’ experience working in a financial management role;
• Experience with NFP accounting and Quick Books desirable;
• Familiarity with CRA regulations regarding charitable organizations;
• NFP Board governance experience desirable, but not essential; and
•  Interest or involvement with heritage, architecture, or culture.

To apply:  send a resume summarizing your credentials and relevant experience to: board@acotoronto.ca. with Treasurer in the subject line. We encourage applicants to submit materials by November 17, 2025, but the position will remain open until filled. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

For more information visit the website www.acotoronto.ca

The post ACO – Toronto Branch appeared first on Capacity Canada.

The latest October 2025 Luxury Market Report from The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing paints a clear picture: the North American luxury real estate market is stabilizing after several years of volatility. Rather than the dramatic highs and lows seen during the pandemic recovery, today’s luxury sector is defined by moderation, discernment, and long-term value.

Across North America, luxury single-family home sales increased by 15.2% year-over-year, even as inventory rose nearly 14%. That combination of more listings and more sales reflects a healthier, more balanced environment. Buyers now have more choice, but well-positioned properties are still moving quickly.

Median sold prices rose 2.9%, while list prices increased only 0.8%, suggesting sellers are becoming more realistic and buyers are responding decisively to homes that align with lifestyle and quality expectations.

Luxury buyers in late 2025 are prioritizing design, location, and long-term livability. They are no longer chasing price spikes. Instead, they’re looking for intrinsic value — properties that justify their price through craftsmanship, architectural integrity, and amenities that support modern living.

The Institute reports that, overall, the number of luxury homes sold this year has outpaced 2024 levels by nearly 5% despite slight month-to-month slowdowns since summer. This is being driven largely by stronger economic sentiment and early signs of interest rate relief.

Recent rate cuts by both the Federal Reserve and the Bank of Canada — the first in over a year — have improved confidence in high-end real estate markets. Mortgage rates remain higher than pre-pandemic norms but are now at their lowest levels of 2025. This shift has been enough to encourage more movement from both domestic and international buyers.

In Canada, the picture is mixed. Alberta remains firmly in seller’s territory, supported by strong migration and affordability relative to other provinces. Ontario and British Columbia are showing a more balanced tone, though condo markets in large urban centres have softened as global capital flows adjust and foreign investment regulations continue to tighten.

Despite those headwinds, the luxury segment overall continues to perform better in 2025 than in 2024. Market slowdowns are being viewed as a recalibration rather than a retreat — a sign of maturity and sustainable growth rather than volatility.

The Waterloo Region market mirrors the national trend toward equilibrium. Both buyers and sellers are recalibrating expectations, and the result is a market that’s steady, not stalled.

The single-family luxury market in Waterloo Region is classified as balanced, with a 15% sales ratio, meaning that neither buyers nor sellers hold a dominant position.

Key Figures for September 2025:

• Luxury threshold: $1.1 million
• Median sale price: $1,300,000 (down slightly from $1.31 million in 2024)
• Sale-to-list ratio: 97.44% (up from 96.84% last year)
• Median days on market: 27 (up from 23 in 2024)
• Total sales: 43 (down from 59 last year)
• Total inventory: 281 (up from 257 last year)
  

This data shows a slower but more predictable pace. While the number of sales has decreased, inventory growth suggests healthier supply levels and less urgency-driven decision-making. Buyers are taking time to evaluate options, but well-prepared homes that meet expectations are still commanding strong attention.

The most active price band for single-family luxury homes sits between $3.6 million and $3.99 million, which achieved a 100% sales ratio — a clear sign that there’s still depth of demand at the upper end of the market.

The attached luxury segment, which includes upscale condos and townhomes, is currently classified as a seller’s market, with a 23% sales ratio.

Key Figures for September 2025:

• Luxury threshold: $700,000
• Median sale price: $767,500 (up slightly from $762,500 in 2024)
• Sale-to-list ratio: 99.2% (up from 98.29%)
• Median days on market: 25 (down from 37 in 2024)
• Total sales: 26 (up from 11 last year)
• Total inventory: 113 (up from 91)
  

This segment is showing resilience. The sharp year-over-year rise in sales, shorter marketing times, and higher sale-to-list ratios all point to strong buyer engagement. Many of these buyers are professionals, downsizers, or investors seeking low-maintenance luxury close to Waterloo’s key employment hubs, universities, and transit access.

The most active price band for attached homes sits between $800,000 and $820,000, with a 150% sales ratio, indicating demand exceeding available supply.

In a balanced or slightly seller-leaning market, strategy is everything. Buyers have more inventory to choose from, but they are also more decisive about homes that show value.

For sellers, this means:

• Proper pricing is essential. Buyers are informed and quick to dismiss overpriced listings.
• Presentation drives perception. Homes that are staged, photographed professionally, and marketed through high-quality channels continue to outperform the average.
• Condition matters more than ever. Turnkey properties with strong design, modern features, and updated finishes are achieving the highest sale-to-list ratios.

Even with slightly fewer transactions, sellers who align with market realities are achieving prices near asking. The small increase in time on market reflects a normalization of buyer behavior, not a lack of interest.

Heading into 2026, luxury real estate is expected to experience measured expansion rather than speculative growth. As interest rates continue to stabilize, both local and international buyers are expected to re-enter the market with renewed confidence.

In Waterloo Region, fundamentals remain strong. The area’s combination of innovation-driven employment, highly ranked schools, and access to lifestyle amenities continues to attract affluent buyers from the GTA and beyond. Inventory levels are expected to remain moderate, which will help sustain price stability across both single-family and attached segments.

Nationally, The Institute forecasts that luxury real estate will continue to perform above 2024 levels, with balanced supply and steady absorption defining early 2026.

The luxury market has reached a new phase of balance. Across North America and here in Waterloo Region, activity is no longer being fueled by emotion but by confidence, data, and long-term thinking.

Buyers are willing to pay for homes that offer value and lifestyle alignment, while sellers who adapt quickly to this more mature market environment are seeing strong, consistent results.

For those considering selling, this is an excellent time to prepare strategically — focus on presentation, align pricing with real market data, and leverage local expertise. A well-prepared home is still a powerful advantage in today’s balanced luxury market.

The post Waterloo Region Luxury Market Report | October 2025 appeared first on Kitchener Waterloo Real Estate Agent - The Deutschmann Team.

Being laid off can hit you hard. I was once laid off from my senior data scientist job, but in hindsight, I should have expected it. First, a hiring freeze and many one-on-one meetings were postponed due to an executive off-site meeting. The writing was on the wall, but I didn’t want to see it. Then, one day, it happened.

In the current climate of global tech layoffs, it is challenging to land a great job in data science and AI. That includes people with graduate degrees in STEM.

Have you noticed that companies are going to four, five, and even eight interviews before deciding on a candidate?

All the AI prompting won’t make you a better critical thinker either, and it can’t replace that hard-won, messy, hands-on experience you gain by building things yourself.

The struggle you feel when creating something from beginning to end is where you learn and your real value lies.

The ultimate goal of the technical hiring process hasn’t changed: to find a great problem solver. But the way companies test for that skill is shifting quickly because of AI.

The days of the traditional take-home evaluation are fading, simply because hiring managers now have to assume candidates used AI coding assistants, which makes the results an unreliable gauge of individual skill.

This has forced companies to address a familiar challenge: cutting through the noise to find people who can actually execute and deliver solutions, not just talk a great game in the interview.

To solve this, live, performance-based assessments are becoming standard across the industry, and it’s no longer just for Big Tech companies. This means candidates must be ready for live coding, data querying, and case studies where their every step is visible and recorded. Sure, having memorized answers for low-level design classics like “An elevator management system” or “The library management system” might give you a false sense of safety, but the real test is applying fundamental knowledge to a truly unique problem on the fly, without the crutch of an AI-assisted answer.

So layoffs absolutely suck, we can all agree. We’ve all seen how quickly things can change, and it’s a sobering reminder that the job market is constantly shifting. With technology evolving at breakneck speed, I knew I couldn’t afford to stand still.

My response to that anxiety wasn’t to panic, but to upskill.

Even while I was still employed, I started spending my spare time diving deep into areas like deep learning, self-learning algorithms, and natural language processing (NLP). My goal was to make myself even more valuable or, at the very least, make my next job hunt a little easier.

How do you become a better problem solver and build your critical thinking skills?

Build something!

Find a problem close to you, generate the data, and solve it yourself. When you hit a wall and can’t move further, you’re going to ask the “why” and “how do I” questions; now you’re really learning.

I recommend that you write your logic out so you don’t need to rely on AI. This mimics the “talk out loud” portion of your interview. When you actually sit down and write real code to solve a problem, you can use AI now to generate specific syntax or make certain code more efficient. This is a better way to use AI!

So, when the layoff notice came, I was hurt but not scrambling. All that time I’d invested in my deep learning and NLP projects while employed wasn’t just a hobby; it was my parachute. In a sense, I was always ready for my next job in AI. Within a few weeks, I landed a Head of Data Science role, which ultimately launched my executive career.

The real takeaway here is that AI skills alone didn’t get me here. It was the combination of problem-solving skills and technical competence that made the difference. I don’t rely on luck.

What truly counts isn’t knowing how to use the latest AI tool. It is continuous learning and problem-solving. When I interview someone today, I’m not looking for those who only know how to use AI. I’m listening for who can explain why something matters because that’s the skill that kept me standing when everything else fell away.

If you enjoyed this post, I write other articles under acflippo.substack.com

Beyond The Algorithm: Life in the Tech Lane | Annie Flippo | Substack

What a Layoff Taught Me About AI was originally published in Code Like A Girl on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

First of all at the moment I believe that Alternative #2 is the one that starts at the very south end of Elmira and swings east and then north running upwards towards Uniroyal/Lanxess although on the east side of the Uniroyal/Lanxess property line with the Stroh farm. .  Now of course the Region or anybody else with influence can change these Alternative numbers at will or even alter the routes at will. We the people have only token opportunities to even express our opinions much less have any power whatsoever to make real changes.

The issue for this Alternative is that part or all of the new roadway will be built on contaminated lands. They are of course contaminated by Uniroyal Chemical and like much of their contamination whether on or off site they have done their best to scope it and minimize it from day one. One example is their denial for decades that any DNAPLS (Dense Non Aqueous Phase Liquids) existed off their site . A little over a year ago they admitted to the DNAPL that ended up beside the Howard St. Water Tower in the Minutes of a September 2024 TRAC meeting. They also have denied that Uniroyal toxic liquids flowed onto the Stroh property for years until they did some 5.9 inches (15 cm.) excavations on the west side of the Stroh property in 2019 and removed some DDT and Dioxins. They also did a very few sediment test samples in the Stroh Drain and found Dioxins thirty times higher than the federal health standard. Nothing however was removed.

Without or until a proper and honest investigation of both the Stroh and Martin properties occurs there is no sure way of knowing exactly how serious this contamination is. The companies 36 year history of  manipulating and massaging any and all data to support their position has been disgraceful. Their failure to achieve the mandated cleanup of Elmira's groundwater also does not give one confidence that they are on top of things.  Leaving these toxins behind will simply guarantee the continued ongoing migration of them both downstream in the Canagagigue Creek and further into the Grand River. Why do we keep giving the corporate polluters and their toothless regulator (MECP) opportunity after opportunity to continue their pretend cleanup?

“We’re extremely proud of Aquanty, and of being a little group that took on a really big task,”

A demonstration of the Manitoba Forage and Grassland Association’s Aquanty-powered forecasting tool, as it stood in 2021. Photo: Screen capture/Manitoba Forage and Grassland Association

We’re proud to share that the Manitoba Forage and Grassland Association (MFGA) has been awarded the 2025 Early Adopter/Innovation Partnership Award from Water Canada for its pioneering work with Aquanty on hydrologic modelling in Manitoba.

The award recognizes outstanding collaborations that advance Manitoba and Canada’s water sector through innovation and partnership. MFGA earned this recognition for its leadership in applying Aquanty’s HydroGeoSphere-based modelling platform to better understand and manage water resources across agricultural landscapes.

Developed in collaboration with Aquanty, the MFGA hydrologic model simulates interactions between surface water, groundwater, and land use in the Assiniboine River Basin, helping communities prepare for extreme weather and adapt to a changing climate. What began as a tool for local water management has since evolved into a comprehensive flood forecasting and climate risk assessment system used by watershed districts, First Nations, and agricultural organizations.

The recognition comes as MFGA and Aquanty continue to build on their success through a new climate change impacts project, supported by $130,000 in funding through the provincial Climate Action Fund and part of a larger $2-million provincial investment in climate resilience. This new initiative, led by Manitoba’s Department of Environment and Climate Change, will extend the MFGA–Aquanty model into the Pembina Valley and Assiniboine West Watershed Districts, using future scenarios for 2050 and 2100 to develop localized climate risk maps and support long-term planning.

Together, MFGA and Aquanty are demonstrating how collaborative science and on-the-ground agricultural leadership can drive innovation in water management— helping Manitoba’s farmers and communities prepare for the future while protecting vital water resources.

Click here to read the article on the Manitoba Cooperator.

Register an account and use the MFGA Aquanty Forecast Tool today!

When many of us first start working with data, we think success means knowing everything, myself included. It took me a while to realize how wrong I was.

We want to master every tool: database querying tools like SQL and PostgreSQL, visualization tools like Power BI and Tableau, and scripting languages like Python. We even believe that if we learn enough about APIs and machine learning frameworks, we will finally feel “complete” as data professionals.

“But here is what no one tells you when you start: the career is a journey, not a destination”

Every time we learn something new, we uncover ten more things we do not understand. And that realization can be uncomfortable. It can make us feel behind, even when we are not.

With time, though, we learn to see it differently. Working in data is not about reaching a finish line. It is about learning to be comfortable in the unknown, trusting that curiosity and persistence will carry us further than perfection ever could.

In the early days, many of us felt confident once we could write complex SQL queries, including joins, CTEs (Common Table Expression), window functions, the whole lot. Then came version control, and we were suddenly learning how to create branches, commit changes, and resolve merge conflicts.

What used to be a simple script now involved pull requests and understanding collaboration rules. It is humbling, but it teaches us something valuable. In data, the learning never stops. When we think we have mastered something, a new layer appears.

Growth in this field is not linear. It is layered. And every new layer builds humility.

There was a time when I used to panic if someone asked a question I could not answer. I thought credibility came from always having the right response.

Now, I simply say, “I am not sure yet, but let us figure it out.”

That single shift changed everything. It changes how others see us, not as people who know it all, but as people who care about getting it right. In analytics, curiosity is what keeps you relevant. It is what turns data into insight and confusion into progress.

Many of us are learning new tools right now. For me, it is dbt (Data Build Tool).

When I first opened the interface, I had no idea what models, macros, or Jinja even meant. But instead of trying to master everything at once, I started small, setting up my first model, documenting a source, and committing changes to Git.

Then I learned more about version control, testing, and eventually, deployment. Each piece made more sense once I had wrestled with the last one. That is how learning in data really works, layer by layer, not all at once.

Even now, when I read articles on data engineering or cloud architecture, there is a quiet voice that says, “You should know this by now.” But with time, you need to learn to answer it with grace:

“I do not need to know everything. I just need to keep learning.”

That mindset shift has been liberating. Because in truth, no one in data knows it all. The people we admire most are just the ones who stayed curious long enough to keep growing.

The moment I stopped chasing the illusion of “knowing it all,” learning became lighter, more joyful, and far more sustainable.

I started focusing on what was relevant to my work, not everything that existed or trended online. I stopped trying to learn for the sake of keeping up, and started learning for the sake of growing.

My mentor once told me, “Even with all my experience, I still Google things every day.”

That stuck with me.

Being a great analyst is not about memorizing every function or library. It is about understanding how data moves, connects, and tells stories that drive action.

If you ever feel overwhelmed by all there is to learn, cloud tools, automation, AI, or whatever is trending next, take a breath.

You are not behind. You are simply on the same endless learning curve that every good data professional is on. The truth is, you will never know everything. But you can always keep learning.

And that is more than enough.

How do you deal with the constant learning curve as a data professional?

Learning to Be Okay With Not Knowing Everything was originally published in Code Like A Girl on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Kitchener, ON – On Wednesday, October 22nd, 2025, the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2025 Small Business Awards, presented by BDC. More than 60 small businesses were nominated across 7 award categories, which culminated in an exceptional celebration during BDC Small Business Week.

Ian McLean (President & CEO, Greater KW Chamber) hosted the evening’s celebrations with nearly 200 guests, including business owners, dignitaries, and community leaders. The event was hosted at 2 local venues, with the Reception at THEMUSEUM, followed by the Formal Awards Show at Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts.

Small Businesses were not only recognized across the award categories but were also featured as Event Partners. Small businesses like The Dessert Artist, The Lord of the Tacos, Fo’Cheezy, Marycuterie, and more provided food to guests throughout the evening. The Awards themselves were also handmade by a local artist, at Blown Away Glass Studio.

The evening’s final award presentation, for the “Exceptional Small Business of the Year Award”, was presented to Vanessa’s Cuisine. This award is unique, as it’s open to public voting – showcasing the incredible impact that the business has in the community, and the respect they have from their customers and peers.

The event was presented by BDC during BDC Small Business Week – a celebration of entrepreneurship that BDC has organized for 45 years.

Service Excellence Award      

Winner: Food4Kids Waterloo Region

Food4Kids Waterloo Region is dedicated to setting the standard for exceptional service in addressing childhood hunger in Waterloo Region. Founded in 2016, the organization has grown from delivering just 17 food packages to now supporting over 1,300 children each week, providing three meals a day and snacks during weekends and school breaks.

Food4Kids Waterloo Region is driven by a small but mighty team of just five staff members, supported by a dedicated network of volunteers. Their work is hands-on and multi-faceted: fundraising, organizing events, coordinating with schools and social workers, advocating for children in need, and delivering food directly to homes and backpacks.

Through their tireless efforts, Food4Kids Waterloo Region exemplifies service excellence, operational efficiency, and an unwavering commitment to one of the most vulnerable members of our community.

Event Impact Award

Winner: Last Minute Gallery

Last Minute Gallery’s The Art Experience has grown from a passion project into a dynamic platform that celebrates creativity and fosters community connection in Waterloo Region. Founded by Precious Julius, the small but dedicated team of only four staff members works tirelessly to bring the event to life, from coordinating emerging artists and curating interactive art installations, to managing live painting sessions and musical performances.

Since its first edition in 2023, which welcomed just 30 attendees, the event has expanded, with the 2024 edition more than tripling in size from the year prior, and providing opportunities for five emerging artists to showcase, sell, and share their work. The Art Experience transforms ordinary spaces into living, evolving galleries, inviting the community to actively participate in the creative process and leaving a lasting impact on both artists and attendees. Last Minute Gallery continues to empower and amplify emerging artists, while helping break down the barriers that often limit access to traditional galleries – proving that even a small grassroots art organization, can make a big impact through events.

Skilled Trades Award

Winner: JJMFG Contracting Inc.

JJMFG Contracting Inc. has quickly become a leader in the skilled trades, providing exceptional painting and renovation services across Southern Ontario. Founded in 2020 by husband-and-wife team Josh Gibson and Becky Schuster, the company has grown from a one-man crew into a full-service operation, serving homeowners, realtors, and builders with a focus on craftsmanship, integrity, and client satisfaction.

JJMFG Contracting has had exponential growth with an over 40% revenue increase in the past year, but they also remain dedicated to youth development and community impact. They have inspired newcomers and BIPOC youth through speaking engagements at the KAIROS Trades Workshop. They have also leveraged their business expertise to support local programs, sharing industry knowledge, creating mentorship opportunities, and building pathways for youth to explore careers in the skilled trades. They continue to demonstrate how a skilled trades business can combine operational excellence with meaningful community involvement.

Employer of the Year Award

Winner: Fo’Cheezy Food Trucks

Fo’Cheezy Food Trucks has grown from a single truck in 2013 to a fleet of five, doubling its staff over the past year, and has become a leader in the local food truck industry. What sets them apart is their people-first culture: employees receive competitive wages, full benefits, hands-on training, and clear opportunities for growth. Staff are supported, celebrated, and empowered to develop their skills, which has helped the team thrive, and has also positively impacted their employment retention.

Fo’Cheezy also plays a leadership role in the industry, mentoring other food truck operators through the OMG Food Truck Collective and sharing best practices in licensing, operations, marketing, and business development. By combining strong workplace culture with mentorship and industry leadership, Fo’Cheezy Food Trucks sets itself apart as an employer where employees succeed, the industry grows, and the community benefits from high-quality service.

Solopreneur of the Year Award

Winner: Reimagine Leadership

Julie Dupont founded Reimagine Leadership in 2021, and in just a few years, she has achieved remarkable growth, ten-fold revenue increases, 15 clients served in 2024 alone, and over 2,500 leaders trained across eleven countries. Her programs have delivered measurable results. She has supported her clients with millions of dollars in client savings, promotion of 75 emerging leaders, and global implementation of her leadership initiatives, earning two national training excellence awards.

As a solopreneur, Julie combines expertise with a contagious enthusiasm that keeps clients coming back. She builds workplaces that are more productive, collaborative, and fulfilling, helping leaders gain confidence and improve communication and engagement across their teams.

Beyond business success, Julie volunteers as a literacy educator, provides pro-bono career coaching to women facing homelessness or other challenges, leads local professional coaching networks, and hosts free leadership workshops that empower leaders to create positive change within their organizations.

Entrepreneur of the Year Award       

Winner: INK DEN

Jenna Marry, founder of INK DEN, has turned personal adversity into a thriving and impactful business. After surviving domestic violence and financial abuse, she rebuilt her life while raising three daughters.

Launched after five years of saving, sacrifice, and hands-on work, she founded INK DEN, a tattoo and piercing studio that pushes the boundaries of the industry. Jenna pioneered joint ownership for her artists, promoting equality in the workplace, and established ethical, trauma-informed, and gender-affirming services that prioritize client safety and dignity.

In 2024, INK DEN made history with the launch of Ink Nite, Canada’s first tattoo event of its kind, combining live tattooing, music, community art, and education—creating a movement and setting a new standard for the industry. The studio has also consistently impacted the community through fundraisers, local collaborations, and support for marginalized clients.

Exceptional Small Business of the Year Award         

Winner: Vanessa’s Cuisine  

The winner of this category was determined solely on public voting, acknowledging the devotion that they have to their customers, and the appreciation their customers have for them. We are thrilled to recognize Vanessa’s Cuisine, this year’s winner of the Exceptional Small Business of the Year Award. Their innovative spirit and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction has truly set them apart, making them a beloved gem in our community.

The post 2nd Annual Small Business Awards Highlight Achievements of the Local Business Community appeared first on Greater KW Chamber of Commerce.

In October, the Children and Youth Planning Table of Waterloo Region was invited to join over 80 child and youth well-being knowledge-holders from across Canada, at the Inspiring Healthy Futures Summit.

This year was the second Inspiring Healthy Futures Summit and it was held in Ottawa. The aim of the summit is to mobilize “key champions” and key data. We had the chance to collaborate with other thinkers in brainstorming how data, practices, and policies could be better utilized and aligned across Canada to meet shared goals. There was also a specific effort to raise awareness and support for Bill S212 (a National Strategy for Children and Youth Act). Senator Rosemary Moonie opened the Summit by highlighting ongoing legislative work to establish this national strategy. Soon, this bill will be in its final stage (third reading) in the Senate, and the support from the key champions at this Summit (and others), will help ensure its success. CYPT will continue to have the opportunity to be a key voice in this national discussion.

Dan Vandebelt (CYPT Data, Research & Evaluation Lead) and Alison Pearson (Manager, CYPT) got the chance to represent the work of the CYPT at the summit and create meaningful connections that will serve to further advance our Research and Organizational Excellence pillars of the CYPT Strategic Plan. And of course, it was exciting to connect with great people who are doing similar work across Canada!

The work that we have been building in Waterloo Region to hear directly from young people about their well-being was well regarded at the summit. The Youth Impact Survey and Child Voice Project were frequently referenced throughout the summit as country-leading work when it comes to meaningful child/youth engagement and mobilizing data.

The Inspiring Healthy Futures Summit offers us a chance to be part of a national platform to help advance child and youth well-being – and it reinforces the great importance of the work we are doing together in Waterloo Region.

The post Travel blog: CYPT at the Inspiring Healthy Futures Summit appeared first on Children and Youth Planning Table.

♦My Great Circle Tour went well. I filmed enough footage for four videos that will appear on Transit Toronto's new channel, and I added about 5,000 words to the newest draft of The Cloud Riders. I saw a lot of fall foliage, drank a lot of good coffee, ate smoked meat at Schwartz's in Montreal and generally recharged my batteries.

A big part of recharging my batteries was attending this year's Can*Con in Ottawa. This longstanding landmark convention for science fiction and fantasy fans and writers was once again a joy to attend. It always feels good to immerse yourself in the community, meeting old friends, and finding new ones (such as the Toronto SFF Writers group!).

And I saw a TARDIS! You know it's a good day when you see a TARDIS (after some serious shenanigans first, of course).

As always, the Can*Con organizing committee did a great job making the best use of their space and creating a welcoming and safe environment for all attendees. My only complaint was that the new hotel, out near Kanata, was a little bit inaccessible by transit for someone whose hotel was located in downtown Kitchener. But what little frustration I had was ameleorated by filming footage of Ottawa's express bus routes, and its western LRT extension now under construction.

While at Can*Con, i was privileged to attend the launch party for Stephen Kotowych's Year's Best Canadian Fantasy and Science Fiction (Volume 3), where my Tales from the Silence story "After the Apocalypse in Moosonee" placed amongst illustrious company. I signed copies, and I had my copy signed by many authors, there were snacks, and a good time was had by all. Thanks again to Stephen Kotowych for putting together this annual celebration of Canadian Science Fiction and Fantasy, and thank you for selecting my story to be a part of it. In celebration, I'll be releasing the follow-up story in Tales from the Silence, "Big Fish, Little Fish", shortly on this blog.

So, all in all, an excellent time that inspired me to tackle (or re-tackle) a number of projects, all of which conspired to keep me away from this blog more than I would have liked, but you'll be seeing the fruits of these labours fairly soon. Stay tuned.

Kimi K2 is the large language model series developed by Moonshot AI team

8.4k Updated Oct 31

Ostensibly it is to give the public an opportunity to comment on which option of four that they prefer for the Elmira By-Pass. There are three options for the east side and one for the west side. In reality the Region and the Township have made this decision years ago and are merely going through the motions of public consultation. It is fairly easy to persuade that public opinion to go your way when you are in control of the data, the information as well as being in charge of the process from start to finish. Any contrary speakers to their preferred option of the east side including the Stroh and Martin farms will most likely be given short shrift with the microphone. At best one or two speakers might tell the public about the highly contaminated Canagagigue Creek but they will be drowned out by a dozen or more supporters of an east side By-Pass. Similarly comments about the Stroh Drain, Ditch & Berm's (SDDB)  contamination is only known by a few folks as our local media have been a little reluctant to criticize either Lanxess or the Ministry of Environment the last several years.

The total off-site pumping is around 63 litres per second which historically is a pretty good pumping rate. Pretty good however does not confirm or clarify Chemtura's claim and promises to CPAC back in November 2012 that they would Triple the off-site pumping in order to achieve drinking water standards by 2028. Now of course they've never even come close to those pumping volumes which is only part of the reason that their "cleanup" has failed. This is the people in charge literally renewing their promises year after year that they were going to achieve drinking water standards by 2028. They quit their bragging/lying maybe eight years ago after twenty years of off-site pumping and five or six years after their promises to vastly increase that pumping. Complete liars yet oddly (or not) neither the Ministry of Environment nor Woolwich Township have ever publicly called them on it.

At the same time this month as they are increasing off-site pumping they continue to under pump their on-site wells. The Target pumping rate for PW4 and PW5 was 4.7 litres per second combined. This month as it has been for the last few years the pumping has been reduced to 3.8 to 4.0 l/sec. Apparently replacing pumping well PW5 with new pumping well PW6 has magically reduced how much on-site pumping is required to combat the lower gradients off-site from drawing and overpowering the on-site pumping wells. This "magic" is unexplained as it generally has been for the last 36 years when the polluter is gilding the lily for self=serving reasons.

There was a moment last Thursday that made me stop and realize something fundamental had shifted.

I was in the middle of explaining a complex data issue to a colleague over chat. Mid-sentence, I needed to reference a document. Instead of the usual dance — “hold on, let me find that file, what was it called again, give me a second” — I just typed a description of what I needed.

The system found it. Pulled it into the conversation. My colleague could see it instantly. We kept talking without breaking stride.

It wasn’t revolutionary. It wasn’t even particularly impressive. But that’s exactly the point.

For the first time in my career, technology got out of my way and let me work the way my brain actually works.

We talk about AI and automation like they’re these dramatic, disruptive forces. And maybe they are. But the real transformation I’m seeing isn’t dramatic at all.

It’s happening in tiny moments. In interactions that finally feel natural instead of forced.

I used to spend 20 minutes hunting for information before I could even start thinking about a problem. Now I spend 30 seconds. That’s not just time saved, it’s the difference between losing my train of thought entirely and staying in flow state.

I used to dread creating reports because it meant hours of copy-pasting data, formatting charts, and making sure everything was current. Now I build dashboards once, and they update themselves. I went from being a data janitor to actually analyzing what the data means.

These aren’t revolutionary changes. They’re the quiet elimination of friction that used to consume most of my day.

Here’s what changed: technology stopped demanding we learn its language and started learning ours.

I don’t need to know query syntax to ask questions about data anymore. I can just… ask in actual sentences. The system figures out what I mean.

I don’t need to remember the exact folder structure where someone saved that budget spreadsheet six months ago. I can describe what I’m looking for, and the system understands context well enough to find it.

This sounds simple. It’s not. It represents a complete inversion of how enterprise software has worked for forty years.

We used to train people to think like databases. Now we’re building databases that understand how people think.

But the real magic isn’t happening in isolation — it’s happening in the spaces between people.

Last month, I watched three colleagues in different time zones solve a complex problem without a single meeting. The conversation happened asynchronously across chat, documents, and dashboards. Everyone could see what everyone else was working on in real-time. Changes synced automatically. Context was preserved.

Nobody had to schedule a call. Nobody had to wait for the “person who knows” to be available. The information was just… there. Accessible. Connected to the conversation about it.

This is the future we were promised with “collaboration tools” for years. It’s finally actually happening.

Here’s the part that fascinates me: the best new technology isn’t trying to replace human judgment. It’s trying to amplify it.

I’ve got systems now that can spot patterns I’d never notice. They can process thousands of records and flag the handful that deserve human attention. They can draft initial responses to routine questions so I can focus on the complex ones.

But they’re not making decisions. They’re creating space for me to make better decisions.

That’s the shift. We’ve stopped trying to automate judgment and started automating everything that gets in the way of judgment.

The system doesn’t tell me what to do about a program that’s underperforming. It shows me which programs are underperforming, why the metrics suggest concern, and what the historical patterns look like. I make the call. I just made it with 90% less manual work required to get there.

The best technology is invisible. You don’t notice it until it’s gone.

I realized this when our systems went down for maintenance last month. Suddenly, things that had become effortless were painful again. Finding documents. Tracking status updates. Coordinating with colleagues.

I hadn’t noticed how much smoother everything had gotten until the smoothness disappeared.

That’s how you know technology has truly evolved, when its absence is more noticeable than its presence.

People talk about automation like it’s threatening. Like we’re being replaced.

What I’m experiencing feels like the opposite. It feels like liberation.

I’m not being replaced by systems that can generate reports. I’m being freed from having to create reports so I can focus on what the reports actually mean.

I’m not being replaced by AI that can answer routine questions. I’m being freed from answering the same questions repeatedly so I can tackle the genuinely difficult problems that require human insight.

The repetitive cognitive labor is disappearing. What’s left is the work that actually requires me to be me. To think, to connect dots, to understand context, and to make judgment calls.

That’s not threatening. That’s exactly what I signed up for.

Here’s what nobody tells you about these small improvements: they compound.

Saving five minutes here, ten minutes there all adds up. But more importantly, it creates momentum.

When I’m not exhausted from fighting with technology, I have energy for creative problem-solving. When I can find information quickly, I’m more likely to dig deeper instead of settling for surface-level answers. When collaboration is frictionless, I reach out to colleagues more often and get better outcomes.

The technology improvements aren’t just making existing work faster. They’re making entirely new kinds of work possible.

What’s different about this moment is that technology is finally being designed around human needs instead of technical constraints.

For decades, databases were designed for database efficiency. Interfaces were designed for programmers. Workflows were designed for computers.

Now? Systems are being designed for the actual humans who use them. They accommodate how we actually think, how we actually collaborate, how we actually solve problems.

That shift — from machine-centric to human-centric design — is more significant than any specific feature or capability.

There’s something else I’ve noticed: I’m more confident in my work now.

Not because I’m smarter. Because I have better tools that help me verify my thinking, spot my blind spots, and validate my assumptions before they become problems.

I can test ideas faster. I can access expertise more easily. I can see patterns more clearly.

The technology isn’t making me redundant. It’s making me better at being human — at doing the work that requires intuition, creativity, and judgment.

We’re living through a shift that’s easy to miss because it’s not dramatic. It’s not “AI takes over the world” or “robots replace workers.”

It’s subtler and, I think, more profound: technology is finally becoming genuinely helpful instead of just impressively complicated.

The tools we use every day are starting to work with our cognitive patterns instead of against them. They’re starting to understand context instead of just processing commands. They’re starting to enhance our capabilities instead of just adding to our workload.

This isn’t the future of work. It’s the present. It’s happening right now in small moments throughout our days.

And honestly? It feels pretty good.

If you’re not feeling this shift yet, if technology still feels like a burden instead of a tool, I’d encourage you to look again.

Not at what the technology promises, but at what it’s quietly started delivering.

The revolution isn’t coming. It’s here. And it’s way less dramatic and way more useful than anyone predicted.

What small technology improvements have made the biggest difference in how you work? I’d genuinely love to hear your experiences — drop a comment below.

The Moment I Realized Technology Had Finally Caught Up to How Humans Actually Work was originally published in Code Like A Girl on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

♦

The Canadian Black Scientists Network is seeking mission-focused individuals to join the Board of Directors of our rapidly-growing not-for-profit.

Our network Elevates, Makes Visible, Celebrates & Connects Black professionals and students in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Medicine and health). We seek values-aligned individuals who are passionate about the three pillars of our mission: 1️⃣ Increase the intake and retention of Black Youth in STEMM, 2️⃣ Increase representation of Black Canadians as STEMM researchers & practitioners, and 3️⃣ Advocate for equitable practices in funding & awards.

We value diverse perspectives and lived experiences, and welcome candidates from all of Canada’s mosaic of communities, identities, and regions. We are particularly interested in people with expertise in any of the following areas:

✔️Strategic planning, organizational growth
✔️Finance
✔️Philanthropy
✔️Government relations, policy
✔️Legal, NFP governance
✔️K-12 Education

Expertise in STEMM is not necessary.

The CBSN originated as a small grass-roots network of Black STEMM Canadians and their allies 5 years ago. We now serve a growing network of 1000 people from across the country. With a rich roster of programming, partnerships, and career-building initiatives for Black youth and professionals, we are driven to remove barriers for individuals, and to ensure the talent in our community enriches Canada’s science, technology & innovation ecosystem. Join us!

Learn more about the Network: lnkd.in/e_NhdmUY

Share your interest or arrange a meeting to learn more: lnkd.in/eMUWnD7s

The post Canadian Black Scientists Network appeared first on Capacity Canada.