Thank you to everyone who filled out the 2025 CYPT Annual Member Survey! View the highlights below.

• 2025 CYPT Member Survey Highlights

If you require this information in another format, please contact the Supervisor of Marketing & Communications on the CYPT Backbone Team.

The post 2025 CYPT Member Survey Highlights appeared first on Children and Youth Planning Table.

The PLASP Board of Directors is seeking passionate, innovative and knowledgeable applicants for positions on the Board.

We are currently seeking candidates who have demonstrated senior or executive level achievement in law, information technology, the public sector, or education. The ideal candidate will have knowledge of Board governance in a charitable or not-for-profit setting, be willing to work collaboratively with other board members in contributing to the development and oversight of PLASP’s strategic plans and have a passion for making a difference in the lives of children and families.

Full details on what to expect as a board member can be found on our website at plasp.com. This is a volunteer position, with a three-year term of service. PLASP’s Board meets at least seven times at the Mississauga head office. The successful candidate may also be required to participate on at least one subcommittee.

Interested candidates who meet the requirements are invited to apply March 30, 2026.

Volunteer Director – Board of Directors – PLASP Child Care Services – Mississauga, ON

The PLASP Board of Directors is inviting applications for passionate, innovative, and collaborative individuals who wish to make a meaningful and valued contribution to the governance of PLASP Child Care Services, a charitable organization operating on a not-for-profit basis and providing services to more than 17,000 children from 13,000 families across 237 locations in Brampton, Caledon, Mississauga, and Toronto.

The 11-member PLASP Board provides strategic governance through leading PLASP’s direction as expressed in its vision, mission and strategy and the effective empowerment of the organization’s CEO and Management Team.

The volunteer Board of Directors is comprised of individuals with diverse professional expertise across disciplines and sectors, well qualified to fulfill their fiduciary responsibilities. The composition of the Board reflects diversity and knowledge in the fields of education, legal compliance, marketing, business development, financial management and community engagement, experiences working within the non-profit sector, experiences working with vulnerable members of society, and experiences with equity deserving members of society. The Board is currently seeking candidates who have demonstrated senior or executive level achievement in law, information technology, the public sector, or education.

• Has held a senior leadership role and is recognized in their field of expertise
• Understands the role of a Board of Directors and whose interests it serves or has the willingness to learn about such purpose and interests
• Will be able to work collectively with the other members of the PLASP board and contribute to the development and oversight of PLASP’s strategic plan
• Has the ability to approach situations with an objective, balanced, and reasonable frame of mind and independence of thought
• Has a passion for excellence in child care

• The Board meets in the evening at least seven (7) times per year at the PLASP head office in Mississauga, Ontario
• Each Director is expected to prepare for, attend and participate in each Board meeting
• In your role of Director, you may be asked by the Board to serve on one or more Board committees. If appointed to a Board committee, Directors will be advised of the committee’s terms of reference, and any specific additional responsibilities involved.

• The term of office for a Director is three (3) years.

PLASP Child Care Services is committed to accommodating applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process, in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Human Resources will work with applicants requesting accommodation at any stage of the hiring process.

If you have the required qualifications for this position and wish to apply, please submit your application through PLASP’s Career page at Careers – PLASP.  Click on “Apply for this Position” on the top right-hand side of this page.  We welcome all applicants to send in their resumes and cover letters for consideration by March 30, 2026.

Please visit www.plasp.com for more employment information.

This posting is for an existing vacancy at PLASP Child Care Services.

The post appeared first on Capacity Canada.

 Well I can see now why the Record didn't want to have reporter Terry Pender admit to a number of inaccuracies in his Lanxess/Elmira story back in late November. He'd already been tapped for this series on water issues in our Region and they didn't want even the tiniest blemish on his credibility. That is ironic to me because I never believed that Mr. Pender had made up his "facts" but that simply he'd been bullsh**ted to by Lanxess and other story tellers. 

Today's article by Mr. Pender is titled "Development should not be slowed by region's water shortage, MPP says". The MPP is our very own idiot Mike Harris Jr. Jr., the very same fellow who had five kids before he decided to research birth control. Apparently he thought it was generally like immunization and that there was a "herd immunity" element involved. You know one has to wonder about an out of town fellow who gets parachuted into a riding where the incumbent has the same name as him. Of course his Daddy and colleagues booted our Mike Harris out of his political seat to make room for Mike Harris Jr.Jr.

So Mike Harris Jr.Jr. feels that a water shortage should not delay growth and development. Wonderful then let him and his progeny go sit in the light, licking their lips pleading to have their water turned back on. Come on Mikey show us the way. Also Joseph Puopolo executive officer with Polocorp Inc. (development co.) stating that "Temporary infrastructure constraints should not be used as a justification to stall development.".  Really and when did Mr. Puopolo get his credentials in hydrogeology? How does he know it's a temporary shortage versus a long term result of mining too much water from the Waterloo Moraine?

Furthermore Mr. Puopolo has the audacity to suggest that the 20 per cent resiliency factor in the water system is unnecessary? Again he knows this how exactly? Common sense says otherwise.

Then we have the idiot Region of Waterloo forming a working group with developers to increase the supply of water to the system. Hmm odd that the Region didn't form a working group with the Food Bank to increase the supply of food to the needy. Or how about a working group with our local drug addicts to enhance the supply perhaps of safer drugs to decrease overdose deaths? And on and on. What makes the developers so special?  Ahh money $$$ and $$$ political $$$donations $$$perhaps? 

Maybe developers are not exactly arrogant.  They are simply puppet masters and which regional councillors are their puppets do you think? Is it even possible that recent job leavings in the Region's Water departments reflect a tiny, internal revolt by honest and concerned employees? Could professionally credentialed water managers have had enough of the glib, elected political twits always demanding full steam ahead on development and growth and damn the torpedoes? Could a few inside, honest individuals have decided that maybe one torpedo is desperately needed and they've fired it to shake up the entrenched, pro growth mantra making a few immensely wealthy at the expense of the many? 

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If you are watching the Waterloo Region luxury real estate market, the latest data provides important insight into pricing trends, inventory levels, and negotiation power across both single-family and attached luxury homes.

Here is what the January 2026 numbers reveal for luxury homes in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, and surrounding communities.

The luxury benchmark price for single-family homes in Waterloo Region is $1,100,000. In January 2026, there were 157 active luxury listings and 28 sales, resulting in an 18% sales ratio. This places the single-family luxury market in balanced territory.

A balanced market means buyers and sellers have relatively equal negotiating power. Homes that are priced correctly and marketed professionally are selling, but buyers are approaching the market carefully and negotiating with confidence.

The median luxury sale price for single-family homes reached $1,310,000 in January 2026, compared to $1,280,000 in January 2025. Homes sold for 97.10% of list price, slightly lower than last year’s 98.04%.

Median days on market increased to 38 days, up from 25 days in January 2025. This reflects a shift toward more normalized market conditions rather than rapid, multiple-offer environments.

The most active luxury price range was $1,100,000 to $1,149,999, where the sales ratio reached 40%. Demand remains strongest at the entry point of the luxury segment.

If you are selling a luxury home in Waterloo, Kitchener, or Cambridge, pricing strategy is critical in 2026. With inventory nearly tripling year over year, buyers have more choice and are comparing properties carefully. Strategic staging, professional photography, and accurate pricing are essential to achieving strong results.

Luxury buyers in Waterloo Region have more leverage than in previous years. Increased inventory means more selection and stronger negotiating opportunities, particularly for properties that have been on the market longer.

The luxury benchmark for attached homes, including high-end townhomes and condominiums, is $700,000.

In January 2026, there were 66 active luxury attached listings and only 4 sales, creating a 6% sales ratio. This firmly places the attached luxury market in buyer’s market conditions.

The median luxury sale price for attached homes was $810,000, down from $840,000 in January 2025. Homes sold for 96.78% of list price, compared to 98.82% last year.

However, median days on market improved significantly, dropping to 28 days from 59 days in January 2025. Well-priced, move-in-ready properties are still attracting serious buyers.

The most active price band was $800,000 to $819,999, with a 100% sales ratio. Competitive pricing remains key.

In a buyer’s market, precision matters. Overpricing can result in extended time on market. Sellers should focus on strong positioning within their competitive set and highlight upgrades, location, and unique features.

Luxury townhome and condo buyers in Waterloo Region currently hold significant negotiating power. Increased inventory and lower absorption rates create opportunity for value-driven purchases.

Compared to January 2025:

• Single-family luxury inventory increased significantly
• Sales volume remained relatively stable
• Median sale prices showed modest growth
• Days on market increased, indicating a slower pace

In the attached segment:

• Inventory rose sharply
• Sales volume declined
• Sale-to-list ratios softened
• Buyer leverage increased

The Waterloo Region luxury housing market is transitioning into a more balanced and data-driven environment. Strategic pricing and professional marketing remain critical for sellers, while buyers benefit from increased choice and negotiation flexibility.

Every luxury property is unique. Neighbourhood, lot size, finishes, upgrades, and location within Kitchener, Waterloo, or Cambridge all influence value and demand.

If you are considering selling your luxury home or purchasing in the $700,000+ or $1,100,000+ price ranges, we would be happy to provide a customized market analysis tailored to your property and goals.

For a detailed review of your home’s value or to explore current luxury opportunities, contact our team today.

The post Waterloo Region Luxury Real Estate Market Update | February 2026 appeared first on Kitchener Waterloo Real Estate Agent - The Deutschmann Team.

CLICK HERE for more information and registration!

The post Fitness Classes at GRR Kitchener appeared first on Grand River Rocks Climbing Gym.

CLICK HERE for more information and registration

The post Fitness Classes appeared first on Grand River Rocks Climbing Gym.

We’re excited to announce the members of our 2026-2028 Steering Committee! ♦ We received almost 30 applications and these individuals were chosen based on their expertise in the pillars of our 2024-2027 Strategic Plan. We also looked for people who serve different areas of Waterloo Region, different age groups, and working from different identity lenses, etc. Please join us in welcoming them to our Steering Committee!

• Nora Agwu, African Canadian Association of Waterloo Region (Research)
• Dillon Browne, University of Waterloo (Research)
• Kristine Allison, Engage Rural (Knowledge Mobilization)
• Maddi Kolberg, Generations Collective (Knowledge Mobilization)
• Taylor Bulstrode, Kinbridge Community Association (Influence)
• Oluseun Olayinka, Adventure4Change (Influence)
• Debbie Engel, Camino Wellbeing + Mental Health (Community Coordination)
• Caitie Wright, YMCA of Three Rivers (Community Coordination)
• Aaron Matthias, Waterloo Regional Police Services (Organizational Excellence)
• Charmaine Sheahan, House of Friendship (Organizational Excellence)

We’d also like to thank individuals who are returning to the Steering Committee in standing seats:

• Heather Fedy, Lead Agency for Child and Youth Mental Health
• Matthew Chandy, Region of Waterloo
• Grace Bermingham, Region of Waterloo Public Health
• Judy Merkel, Waterloo Catholic District School Board
• Bobbie Chatha, Waterloo Region District School Board

Learn more about the Steering Committee and each of the members.

Note: This photo doesn’t contain all the members of the new Steering Committee.

The post Announcing our 2026-2028 Steering Committee appeared first on Children and Youth Planning Table.

I thought that our authorities couldn't go much lower than ignoring dioxins flowing into the Martin swimming pond used by local Mennonite children for decades here in Elmira.  I was wrong. Based upon last Saturday's K-W Record story written by Luisa D'Amato titled "Will we have enough water?" it appears that they indeed can go lower. In order to keep the money/gravy train running for developers and builders the Region of Waterloo are suggesting dishonestly refurbishing and retreading long closed contaminated wells to put them back into service. Perhaps they will dilute them when possible in order to keep them under some theoretical (but intrinsically inaccurate) concentration protecting human health and maybe they won't especially when supplies are low. I stated that it was a "dishonest" refurbishment because the public have never been clearly advised as to the sources and toxic contents in that groundwater in the first place.

Today's Record carries new information from reporter Terry Pender in an article titled "Gravel pits seek water-taking permits in midst of crisis". Wow clearly both our regional councillors as well as our other authorities (MECP for example) have no shame. Recently the Region have approved a 30 litre per second withdrawal of water from Wilmot Township to be put into the Kitchener, Waterloo and area water systems. Now Esbaugh Sand & Gravel want to remove 9.7 million litres of pristine groundwater per day for use in the new Hallman gravel pit. Do you think they are going to be returning 9.7 million litres per day of pristine groundwater to the deeper aquifers or are they going to be returning dirty groundwater that has been used to wash debris, organic matter, leaves, surface and shallow bacteria, dust etc. from the stones that they have removed and crushed from near surface? The sand and gravel above those aquifers fifty to ninety feet below ground filtered out contaminants and has securely stored that water for decades and longer.

Ms. D'Amato's article from last Saturday briefly mentions that one of the three Parkway wells near Fairway Rd. and Manitou Dr. is contaminated. She did not mention highly toxic trichloroethylene (TCE) or that all three wells have been closed for good reason. These wells are close enough together that whichever one is pumping will very quickly draw the TCE plume towards it . That plume is already within the cone of influence of all three wells.  Secondly Ms. D'Amato did not mention long standing problems with the Greenbrook wells drawing contaminated water from under the Ottawa St. Landfill towards themselves. Avid newspaper readers may recall the Regional scandal involving their landfill sites illegally taking liquid toxic wastes from Varnicolor Chemical and other local polluters back in the early 1990s. Perhaps the human error several years ago at the Greenbrook Wellfield in which a driver discharged ammonia into the wrong tank (chlorine) causing an explosion was the excuse they needed to shut those wells down for a long rest. Finally what I suspect may by far be the worst of the lot is the Woolner/Pompeii Wellfields. There are literally dozens of hydrogeological reports from the 1960s, 70s, 80s and 90s showing groundwater contamination naturally flowing downgradient from the back of Safety-Kleen (formerly Breslube) towards the aquifer's discharge point into the Grand River. The fact that the City of Kitchener and the Region had drinking wells known as "river wells" beside the Grand River only exacerbated the speed at which the contaminants flowed from upstream areas such as the "Black Lagoon" (between Breslube and the Grand R.). towards the Grand.

I dare local councils including Regional to continue ignoring these facts. You idiots are headed towards a future involving courts and all the money in the world will not wash the stink off of you.

February 16-20, 2026 is the fifth annual observance of Nonprofit Appreciation Week in Ontario. Advocacy by the Bhayana Family Foundation, the Ontario Nonprofit Network, and United Way Greater Toronto was brought together by MPP Daisy Wai and the Ontario Legislature, coming into effect in December 2021.

This week – as every week – Capacity Canada celebrates the critical work that nonprofits do in our country. The charities and nonprofits that help to make up the social fabric of our society are essential in providing programs and services that reduce isolation, provide healthcare, build community, and make incredible positive impacts in the lives of people across the country. In fact, every one of us is likely to require or benefit from the services of a nonprofit organization at least once in our lifetime.

Data from Imagine Canada shows that up to 2.7 million people work in Canada’s nonprofit sector. That’s more than the mining, oil and gas sector, or agriculture, transportation and retail! A sincere thank you to all of those who work and volunteer in the nonprofit sector!

In this video, you’ll hear from members of the Capacity Canada team about how we work to support and build capacity in the sector.

In these four shorter videos, you’ll hear from individual team members, sharing their thoughts for Nonprofit Appreciation Week.

• Bryan Webber
• Blair Dimock
• Fatima Awan
• Rob Donelson

Please join us in celebrating Nonprofit Appreciation Week!

The post Happy Nonprofit Appreciation Week! appeared first on Capacity Canada.

♦

Safe, Supportive, and Recovery-Focused: HART Hub Transitional Housing Strengthens Waterloo Region’s Continuum of Care for Homelessness and Addiction Recovery

HART Hub Waterloo Region (HHWR) is pleased to announce the launch of a new abstinence-based, Transitional Housing program, operated by House of Friendship.

“The HHWR Transitional Housing program is a vital addition to our community’s housing continuum,” said Jennifer Scott, CEO of House of Friendship. “By offering an abstinence-based environment with addiction supports, the program provides consistent, structured support for individuals as they work toward recovery and housing stability.”

This new Transitional Housing program (located at 47 Madison Ave. S. in Kitchener) is a key component of the HHWR, and part of a $529-million provincial investment—the largest increase in addiction treatment funding in decades.

HHWR is a collaborative network of local services across Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, and the rural townships, designed to provide caring and coordinated support to meet immediate needs, and help people build stability while facing housing, mental health, and substance-use concerns in Waterloo Region. The addition of House of Friendship’s abstinence-based transitional housing strengthens the continuum of care available through HHWR.

“Over the past year, Community Healthcaring Kitchener-Waterloo and House of Friendship have worked closely with community partners to bring the HART Hub model to life,” said Tara Groves-Taylor, CEO of Community Healthcaring Kitchener-Waterloo. “The addition of abstinence-based, transitional housing beds represents a crucial part of the continuum, supporting change-oriented individuals in their journey toward greater stability.”

When fully operational, HHWR Transitional Housing program will support up to 12 change-oriented individuals at a time through an abstinence-based, time-limited housing program, with stays typically ranging from six to twelve months. The program combines a stable place to live with individualized supports, including addiction services that promote recovery, strengthen housing stability, build daily living skills, and connect participants to coordinated community services.

“At its core, HHWR Transitional Housing recognizes that housing alone is not enough for individuals working toward recovery and stability,” said Jennifer Scott, CEO of House of Friendship. “Alongside a safe, abstinence-based place to live, people need time, supportive relationships, and practical assistance to begin rebuilding their lives. We’re proud to provide that through this program.”

House of Friendship’s HHWR Transitional Housing program is expected to be open by the end of March 2026.

The post HART Hub Transitional Housing Opening Soon! appeared first on House Of Friendship.

When: Saturday May 2, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Meeting Point: Outside Historic City Hall, 46 Dickson Street

Walk Leader: Dan Schmalz

31 stop walking tour of downtown Galt showcasing landmarks and stories of the history of the area. Historic City Hall, Farmers Market, Fire Hall, Churches, Queen’s Square, Pedestrian Bridge and more. Using Historic Downtown Galt Walking Tour I updated in 2018. Includes brochures for attendees.

Bio of me. I am the Information and Archives Analyst for the City of Cambridge as well as life-long Cambridge resident and local historian. Previous done this walk in 2018 and various times since. Walk is normally about 90 minutes. I will be doing this walk as part of my role with the City of Cambridge.

When: Sunday May 3rd, 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm

Meeting Point: Corner of King & William Streets at the Brewmeister Green Park

Walk Leader: Barbara Larke & Edward Scorgie

Waterloo was incorporated as a village in 1857 and as a town in 1876. Where is that historic village or town to be seen now in the City of Waterloo? Join us and together we will see what we can find of early Waterloo . In the meantime, consider where the Waterloo Town Square was originally located and who the Hop King of Waterloo might have been ?

When: Saturday May 2nd, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Meeting Point: Clock tower in Victoria Park

Walk Leader: Divya Dhingra

Walking through downtown Kitchener, one comes across many curious sites and pieces of public art. Join us on this leisurely walk, where echoes of the past linger in brick and stone. We begin near the site of the city’s first town hall and market, tracing the imprint of early settlers through the streets of old Berlin. Along the way, public art and architecture reveal stories — tales of growth, identity, and transformation etched into the city’s urban fabric.

When: Saturday May 2nd, 2:00 – 3:30 pm

Meeting Point: We will gather at the park on the corner of Ellen street East and Queen street North

Walk Leader: Divya Dhingra

Love historic residential architecture, art and stories of your city? Join us for an architecture focused walking tour in downtown Kitchener.

We will explore the historic neighborhoods around Downtown, discuss the distinct features of the various architectural styles we find, modern conversions of former factory buildings, and more.

The walk will dive deep into architectural elements and as it is being hosted by an architect, we encourage everyone to ask questions and share their knowledge of the city. Let’s use this as a platform to connect more deeply with our city and our neighbours.

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  Ignore lint for now in CI until ruff stuff is fully configured and fixed

A GitHub action for interacting with your Supabase projects using the CLI.

TypeScript 177 Updated Feb 18

The biggest threat to enterprise AI isn’t hallucination, it’s networking. Here is how to lock down your LLM infrastructure using private subnets, CIDR blocks, and custom ENIs.

Every week, another enterprise announces a “secure” internal AI copilot, and every week, I see architecture diagrams that make my skin crawl.

We’ve spent the last two years obsessing over retrieval-augmented generation (RAG). We’ve mastered chunking strategies, embedding models, and orchestration graphs. But if you look closely at how most of these systems are deployed, they are an absolute security nightmare.

Developers are spinning up cloud instances, loading proprietary company data into vector databases, and letting them communicate over public internet gateways. It is the cloud computing equivalent of leaving the keys in the ignition of a running car.

When you’re dealing with enterprise-grade deployments, the data passing through your embedding models and vector databases is highly sensitive. You cannot afford to leak context. As the industry matures, the focus is rapidly shifting from building AI to securing AI.

Having spent years navigating both machine learning optimization and the tangled web of cloud networking, I want to bridge the gap. Let’s talk about how to actually isolate your AI infrastructure.

The typical “tutorial” RAG deployment looks like this: Your application server queries a public LLM API, pulls context from a managed vector database (often with a publicly accessible endpoint), and stitches it together.

In a production environment for healthcare, finance, or proprietary tech, this is unacceptable. You need absolute network isolation. This means bringing your infrastructure inside a Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) and meticulously managing your subnets.

To build a private AI enclave, you need to start with the foundational boundaries. A VPC acts as your logically isolated section of the AWS cloud. But simply having a VPC isn’t enough; you need to partition it correctly using Classless Inter-Domain Routing (CIDR).

When allocating your CIDR blocks, you must ensure your inference nodes (which might need to autoscale) have enough IP addresses, while keeping your vector databases locked in completely isolated private subnets.

Here is how you might use the AWS Cloud Development Kit (CDK) in Python to define a strict, secure network foundation for your AI apps:

from aws_cdk import (
    aws_ec2 as ec2,
    App, Stack
)
from constructs import Construct

class SecureAIVpcStack(Stack):
    def __init__(self, scope: Construct, construct_id: str, **kwargs) -> None:
        super().__init__(scope, construct_id, **kwargs)

        # 1. Define the VPC with a specific CIDR block
        # A /16 gives us 65,536 IP addresses - plenty for autoscaling ML clusters
        self.ai_vpc = ec2.Vpc(self, "EnterpriseAIVPC",
            ip_addresses=ec2.IpAddresses.cidr("10.0.0.0/16"),
            max_azs=2, # High availability across two availability zones
            
            # 2. Strict Subnet Routing
            subnet_configuration=[
                ec2.SubnetConfiguration(
                    # Public subnet for load balancers ONLY
                    subnet_type=ec2.SubnetType.PUBLIC,
                    name="Ingress",
                    cidr_mask=24
                ),
                ec2.SubnetConfiguration(
                    # Private subnet for the Application and LLM Inference Nodes
                    subnet_type=ec2.SubnetType.PRIVATE_WITH_EGRESS,
                    name="InferenceCluster",
                    cidr_mask=24
                ),
                ec2.SubnetConfiguration(
                    # ISOLATED subnet for the Vector Database (No internet access at all)
                    subnet_type=ec2.SubnetType.PRIVATE_ISOLATED,
                    name="VectorDB",
                    cidr_mask=24
                )
            ]
        )

Now you have a Vector DB sitting in an isolated subnet (meaning it literally has no route to the internet) and an open-source LLM (like Llama 3 or Mistral) hosted on an EC2 instance in a private subnet.

How do they talk?

This is where many developers get tripped up and accidentally open a public route. Instead, they need to communicate via Elastic Network Interfaces (ENIs). Think of an ENI as a virtual network card.

When your inference node needs to query the vector database, the traffic must route internally through these interfaces using Security Groups as the bouncer.

# 3. Defining the Security Groups (The Bouncers)
        llm_security_group = ec2.SecurityGroup(self, "LLMSecurityGroup",
            vpc=self.ai_vpc,
            description="Allow traffic from Load Balancer to Inference Nodes",
            allow_all_outbound=True
        )

        vector_db_security_group = ec2.SecurityGroup(self, "VectorDBSecurityGroup",
            vpc=self.ai_vpc,
            description="Strictly allow traffic ONLY from the LLM nodes",
            allow_all_outbound=False # Lock it down
        )

        # 4. The crucial step: Tying them together via internal routing
        # The Vector DB only accepts connections on port 5432 (e.g., pgvector) 
        # specifically from the LLM's security group. 
        vector_db_security_group.add_ingress_rule(
            peer=llm_security_group,
            connection=ec2.Port.tcp(5432),
            description="Allow private RAG queries via internal ENI routing"
        )

By configuring it this way, even if a malicious actor breached your public-facing application, they couldn’t directly access the vector database. The data is fundamentally isolated at the hardware/network layer, not just by an API key.

Moving from experimental Jupyter notebooks to enterprise reality requires a paradigm shift. You have to start thinking like a network engineer.

As we push towards highly specialized, agentic workflows, the volume of data moving between models and databases will only increase. By mastering VPCs, mastering your CIDR blocks, and locking down your ENIs, you ensure that your cutting-edge AI remains an asset, rather than your company’s biggest vulnerability.

• AWS Architecture Blog (2024). Securing Generative AI on AWS. A deep dive into the official AWS recommendations for isolating ML workloads using VPCs and PrivateLink.
• Pinecone Security Architecture. Deploying Vector Databases in Private Networks. Documentation on how managed vector databases handle private endpoints and VPC peering for secure enterprise deployments.
• Towards Data Science (2025). The Shift to Local LLMs: Privacy and Security in the Enterprise. Explores the growing industry trend of moving away from public APIs toward self-hosted, network-isolated open-source models for sensitive data.
• HashiCorp / Terraform. AWS VPC Network Provisioning. For those who prefer Terraform over CDK, the fundamental principles of isolating private_isolated subnets apply directly here.

Stop Exposing Your Vector Database: The Architect’s Guide to Private RAG using AWS VPCs 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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• A new platform with a more accessible design and improved navigation
• Current cycle results (2023) plus access to previous cycles
• You can now overlay the EDI map with select 2021 Census demographic indicators to better understand community context (one-parent families, recent immigrants, visible minority populations, and low-income status using the Low-Income Measure, After Tax (LIM-AT)).
• Meaningful change by neighbourhoods view to highlight notable shifts in EDI results over time and support local planning conversations.

The post New: Early Development Instrument (EDI) Dashboard for Waterloo Region (2003–2023) appeared first on Children and Youth Planning Table.

Two things did pop out at me though. The repeated claim that the two disinfection systems aren't mixed together because they produce stinky/smelly water and secondly the claim that the Bedrock Aquifer below the Waterloo Moraine contains too much sulphur and manganese whereas the Bedrock Aquifer below Cambridge is fine for potable water. Now I have gone and checked and indeed they are two distinct Bedrock formations and both have Dolostone in them. Now I have often heard that Bedrock Aquifer water isn't as aesthetically pleasing as Overburden water from sand and gravels. Bedrock Aquifers certainly have been noted as having a sulphur smell to them. But why is one fine and the other not?

Again regarding the two disinfection systems I would like more than the bald claim that the water from them together produces smells. I would also like to see a confirmation that indeed the two disinfection systems are chlorine versus chloramines. My understanding is that both disinfection systems produce chlorine smells which everybody knows and nobody likes.

To date no response to my Saturday posting here advising of the various groundwater wells affected by industrial contamination in Waterloo Region. This includes nothing from Woolwich Council, Waterloo Regional Council, TRAC, MECP (Environment Ministry), Lanxess Canada, K-W Record and the Woolwich Observer. In other words currently neither the media, the Ontario Ministry of Environment, three levels of government (2 councils & 1 provincial ministry), the corporation currently responsible for restoring the Elmira Aquifers (Lanxess) and finally the Woolwich Council appointed citizens committee (TRAC) have responded with either requests for further data or with questions. 

Here in Ontario and Woolwich Township that means public engagement and public consultation actually are more about avoiding public consultation with informed and determined citizens than otherwise. It means promoting conversation with folks deferential to authority but avoiding at all costs public discussions with those who ask either difficult or embarrassing questions. I would further suggest that the more informed and difficult questioners are defamed, backstabbed and discriminated against by our elected authorities.   

♦

♦Actions Speak Louder Than Words with Michael Jacques
Thursday, February 26
3:30 PM – 5:00 PM
FREE – Registration Required
KW Habilitation (1st Floor Bullas Hall) – 99 Ottawa St. S, Kitchener

Join KW Habilitation’s Outspoken Group for another great event in their speaker series. Michael Jacques is an author, activist, man with autism and an intellectual disability. Michael will be speaking about the ways inclusion can help everyone and will share personal stories about how he has used his voice. He will also share how you can use your voice to talk about the things that are important to you. All all welcome!

Click here to register

♦♦ ♦

♦Dreamy Oil-Pastel Landscapes
Sunday, March 1
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
FREE
KW Art Gallery – 101 Queen St. N, Kitchener

Guided by our talented Art Instructors, learners will explore new art techniques, play with materials, and create one-of-a-kind artworks together. Layer rich oil pastels to create misty bogs, glowing sunsets, or mysterious marshes. These landscapes will be full of life and imagination. There’s no better way to spend time with others than by imagining, creating, and making side-by-side.

Click here for more info

♦Drag Bingo Brunch
Sunday, March 1
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
$17.31
Abe Erb – 15 King St. S, Waterloo

Get ready for a hilarious, high-energy afternoon of Drag Bingo Brunch hosted by none other than Crystal Quartz. Your shimmering host will be serving big laughs, bold looks, and nonstop fun! This event will not include adult toys or novelty items as prizes, making it perfect for a lighter, feel-good brunch atmosphere.

Click here for more info

♦Free Bocce
Saturday, February 28
10:00 AM – 11:20 AM or
12:30 PM – 1:50 PM
FREE – Registration Required
Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex – 101 Father David Bauer Dr. Waterloo

This is a fun try-it session where you’ll learn the basics of how to play boccia – an indoor sport similar to curling or lawn bowling, played indoors! After learning how to play you will participate in a friendly game!

Click here for more info

♦

♦Better Together Speed Dating
Saturday, February 28
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
FREE – Registration Required
Extend-A-Family – 91 Moore Ave. Kitchener

Looking for a date? Join Extend-A-Family at their Better Together Speed Dating Social, where you can meet potential romantic partners in an inclusive and fun setting. Enjoy a casual setting as you get to know other people. Spark new connections. Create the beginnings of a bond. Find a lifetime love or a fantastic friend.

Extend-A-Family is an inclusive and welcoming space. The event is opened to all adults with a disability and is inclusive of all gender identities and sexual orientations. All are welcome!

Click here for more info

The post February 18, 2026: What’s Happening in Your Neighbourhood? appeared first on KW Habilitation.

March of Dimes Canada (MODC) is a leading national charity committed to championing equity, empowering ability, and creating real change for more than eight million people with disabilities across the country.

MODC is seeking outstanding individuals to join our Board of Directors. As a Board member, you will play a critical role in guiding the organization through an exciting period of transformation, and enhancing our impact for those we serve.

To complement the skills and experiences of our existing Board, we are seeking applications from dynamic executive and senior leaders with deep knowledge and experience in the following specific areas:

• Finance: Demonstrated leadership experience in financial strategy, planning, oversight, and compliance, bringing strong financial governance and risk management experience to support MODC’s financial discipline, sustainability, and long‑term growth.
• Health and Health Systems: Demonstrated leadership experience in health and community care systems, including service delivery, system design, funding and policy, and quality and safety, bringing strategic insight to guide the delivery and expansion of high‑quality, integrated services for people with disabilities across the lifespan.

Ideal candidates will bring strong prior governance and strategic oversight experience; the ability to collaborate effectively with fellow volunteers and management to advance impact; and a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing mission-driven organizations.
At March of Dimes Canada, our commitment to people with disabilities guides everything we do. We recognize that governance and leadership are enriched when they include and reflect the community we serve. We encourage applications from individuals who identify as having a living experience of disability, in addition to relevant professional expertise.

• 5-6 hours/month
• Approx. 5 Board and 5 Committee meetings/year, including two-day Board meetings in Toronto in May and November, and a virtual AGM in July.
• 3-year term (up to 3 consecutive terms).

• Understand the mission and culture of March of Dimes Canada.
• Act with integrity and credibility, demonstrating a commitment to improving the lives of people with disabilities.
• Provide strategic governance and oversight to the organization.
• Prepare for, attend, and actively participate in Board meetings and deliberations.
• Serve on one or more Board Committees, aligned with organizational needs and your expertise.
• Contribute to policy development.
• Approve the annual budget, audit reports, and review quarterly financial reporting.
• Foster collegial relationships with Directors and committee members to facilitate effective meetings and outcomes, consistent with the organization’s values.
• Provide constructive input on strategies and proposals from the executive leadership team.
• Build relationships with corporate and community partners.
• Support March of Dimes Canada fundraising and participate in special events.

• Business/financial acumen
• Professional, executive or leadership experience and accomplishments in the corporate, public, or non-profit sectors, specifically in the areas of finance and accounting, health and community care.
• Ability to cultivate relationships, express opinions respectfully, and build consensus among diverse individuals.
• Previous involvement on a Board or Board Committee is strongly preferred

Please submit a cover letter, 150-word bio, and your résumé via Shagun Shah, Talent Acquisition coordinator, sshah@marchofdimes.ca | (647) 777-7513 Ext 7209 by February 27, 2026.

March of Dimes Canada is a leading national charity committed to championing equity, empowering ability, and creating real change for more than eight million people with disabilities across the country.

We serve, connect, and empower people living with disabilities so they may participate fully in life, and on their own terms. Our work is grounded in the voices of the people we serve, built on a foundation of service, and backed by a 75-year history of success.

We’ve proven time and again our dedication to addressing the ongoing and urgent needs of people living with disabilities and their families and caregivers. In the 1950s, March of Dimes Canada helped in the global effort to find a cure for polio. We’ve since evolved to become a recognized leader in disability service design and delivery, supporting tens of thousands of people at home, work, and in communities across the country.

Now, inspired and guided by our community, we are focusing our efforts even further. Together with our clients, partners, supporters, and allies, we are creating communities in which people living with disabilities can not only live but thrive in all they aspire to do.

Our Board is currently made up of 17 Directors and there are eight Board Committees. The Board and its Committees support the work of our executive leadership team, which oversees more than 2,000 employees nationally.

MODC is committed to an organization that is reflective of the diverse populations we serve. We welcome applications from qualified individuals from all backgrounds and abilities. In accordance with accessibility and human rights legislation across Canada, MODC will provide accommodations to applicants with disabilities and other protected needs. If you require accommodation, please notify us and we will work with you to meet your needs. We are committed to a selection process and work environment that is inclusive, equitable, accessible, and barrier-free.

MODC is dedicated to building and advancing an inclusive and welcoming culture. It’s also why we’re focused on attracting, retaining, and supporting diverse people. Thanks to our progressive practices, our People of all abilities and backgrounds are encouraged to access the opportunities and supports they need to grow, thrive, and succeed.

• February: The 2026 application period is from February 11 – February 27.
• February 27, 2026: Application deadline for 2026-2027 nominating period
• March and April: Applications are reviewed by the Governance and Nominating Committee and interviews are conducted.
• May: Recommendations are made to the Board for nominations.
• July: Nominations to the Board and Committees are confirmed at the MODC Annual General Meeting in July, with orientation of new members to follow.

The post Match of Dimes Canada appeared first on Capacity Canada.

If your home was listed in 2025 and didn’t sell, it’s frustrating — and understandably discouraging. But it’s important to know this: you’re not alone, and it doesn’t mean your home isn’t desirable.

2025 was not a year of recovery, and it wasn’t a collapse. It was a reset year for the Waterloo Region real estate market. Buyer behaviour shifted, pricing expectations recalibrated, and many homes that would have sold easily just a few years ago stalled instead.

As we move into early 2026, homes are selling — but only when pricing, presentation, and positioning are aligned correctly from the very beginning.

If you’re planning to sell your home in Waterloo Region, understanding what changed — and how to adjust — is essential to avoiding a repeat outcome.

Many sellers assume their home didn’t sell because the market was “bad.” In reality, demand didn’t disappear — it simply became more disciplined.

In 2025:

• Borrowing costs remained elevated
• Buyers became far more analytical
• Affordability mattered more than urgency
• Emotional decision-making faded

Buyers stopped stretching. They started comparing. And they became very selective about what they were willing to pursue.

This resulted in:

• Fewer showings for overpriced or poorly presented homes
• Longer days on market
• Reduced tolerance for “we’ll fix it later” properties
• Little negotiation interest if the listing didn’t feel aligned

Homes didn’t get multiple chances. If they missed early momentum, buyers moved on.

When we review unsold listings across Waterloo Region, the same issues come up again and again.

• Pricing Was Based on Yesterday’s Market: Even small pricing disconnects were quickly punished. Buyers were no longer anchored to peak market sales from 2021–2022 — they were anchored to current value and alternatives. Overpricing didn’t lead to negotiation. It led to silence.
• Presentation Didn’t Compete: Buyers experience homes online first. If a listing didn’t immediately stand out visually, many buyers never booked a showing at all — regardless of square footage, lot size, or location.
• The First Impression Was Missed: In this market, momentum is created early — or not at all. Homes that launched without a clear point of difference often stalled before sellers even realized there was a problem.
  
  

In a selective market, presentation is no longer optional — it’s strategic.

Professional staging helps:

• Create an immediate emotional response
• Highlight flow, scale, and functionality
• Make spaces feel brighter and more intentional
• Help buyers visualize themselves living there

Buyers aren’t just comparing prices — they’re comparing feel. The homes that feel easiest, most polished, and most move-in ready consistently outperform the rest.

If you’re preparing to relist or planning a new listing this year, we strongly recommend reviewing our Seller Staging Guide, which outlines exactly how buyers respond to presentation in today’s market and where staging delivers the strongest return.

One of the biggest misconceptions sellers have is that pricing alone will fix everything. It won’t.

Staging cannot overcome unrealistic pricing — and aggressive pricing cannot overcome weak presentation. The homes that sell best are the ones where:

• The price feels justified the moment buyers see the home
• The presentation supports the value
• The home clearly stands out from competing listings

When those pieces align, buyers:

• Feel confident
• Move faster
• Negotiate less aggressively
• Are more willing to compete

This reflects broader changes in the Waterloo Region real estate market, where accuracy and preparation now matter far more than speed.

Before relisting, it’s critical to pause and reassess — not just relaunch.

The right questions to ask are:

• How are buyers valuing homes like mine right now?
• Where did my previous listing lose alignment?
• What adjustments will actually change buyer behaviour?

A free home value assessment can help you understand current market positioning, pricing strategy, and what today’s buyers expect — without pressure or obligation.

This isn’t about chasing the market. It’s about entering it correctly.

Early 2026 is showing signs of stabilization — not a rebound.

What’s working:

• Precise pricing
• Strong visual marketing
• Strategic launch timing
• Clear differentiation

Homes that meet these criteria are selling — often quietly, but successfully.

Homes that don’t are still sitting.

A home that didn’t sell in 2025 can absolutely sell successfully in 2026 — with the right strategy.

Success today comes down to:

• Data-driven pricing
• Professional presentation
• Clear positioning
• Getting it right out of the gate

If you’d like personalized guidance based on your home and neighbourhood, you can speak with a Waterloo Region real estate expert to review your options confidently and strategically.

The goal isn’t just to sell — it’s to sell well, without repeating the same experience.

The post Your Home Didn’t Sell in 2025? Here’s What Waterloo Region Sellers Need to Do Differently in 2026 appeared first on Kitchener Waterloo Real Estate Agent - The Deutschmann Team.

Terry Pender of the K-W Record has a front page article titled "Water crisis sparks fears of privatization" and Luisa D'Amato has an Opinion piece titled "A truce is reached in the water crisis, but the hard work is ahead". Regarding the privatization fears I suggest that the Region likely through their councillors have played directly into Doug Ford and the Conservatives hands. Apparently Bill 60 is the culprit as the provincial Conservative government passed it last year which among other things permits the sale of municipality's water infrastructure to private corporations. Politicians such as our own Sandy Shantz used the Min. of Environment's and Chemtura's boycott of CPAC back in late 2014 as an excuse to dump citizen volunteers on CPAC despite it being the intransigence and dishonesty of the other two parties impeding cleanup progress. Now the Region have handed the provincial government the excuse they need on a platter. Clearly the Region of Waterloo are incompetent as they have allowed our water system to deteriorate so badly.

Luisa D'Amato's Opinion piece is a little different. She states that a truce has been reached between developers, builders and the Region of Waterloo. Not so fast Luisa. I view your "truce" as more of a capitulation. What do you think brought on this water crisis in the first place? Clearly regional councillors are all ears when developers and friends come calling but deaf and blind when environmentalists and activists (i.e. citizens)  appear as Delegates requesting either slower growth or better infrastructure such as water treatment, sewage treatment, better remediation of contaminated sites etc. 

I will say that I do agree with Ms. D'Amato in regards to hard work being needed as well as answers to questions being required such as why was this water crisis such a surprise to so many.

Bringing together survivors and allies to create real and lasting change for kids.

The post Survivor’s Circle first appeared on Child Witness Centre.