Today marks a significant milestone as we convene for the 10th Annual Canadian Autism Leadership Summit.

275+ attendees are joining in person & online. Over the next 3 days, we will be taking action toward the development of a #NationalAutismStrategy .

#CALS2024 , let's go!

An honour to present the award to Siyu.

Very touching good bye to Brian Mulroney. His daughter Caroline touched every heart in the Notre Dame Basilica and across the country. A real sense of political history but what stood out for me was the love of family. What Canadians also learned about him was a love of country.

Thinking back to the 84 campaign- The Tories are on the verge of an historic victory. 8 weeks on the road and soon I would be appointed CTV London Bureau Chief. A very gracious PM sent me this photo- “ Jim good wishes as you finally escape the clutches of those nasty Tories.”

I have seen this many times. I don’t why, maybe it’s a personal thing but I needed to watch again this morning. .

My fave #Canadian senator (the only one I know 😉) Jim Munson, shared his positivity & gratitude @ #RisingEconomy2024 :
“This Island has the gift of nature and the gift of attitude.”
SIPP is “A model of collaboration that needs to be exported to all areas of the country”. 👍

We are in the planning stages of setting the agenda for the next Forum this August / It is very exciting to be working with my former colleagues in the Senate in “Building Trust for a Shared Future” . Stay tuned .

Spent 7 weeks on the road with Brian Mulroney during the 84 campaign. We had our moments but his big moment was when he was elected Prime Minister. There were controversies but history will be kind to him- fighting apartheid and free trade are just examples of his legacy.

The Good News -The Worlds Largest Skate Way -the Rideau Canal has finally reopened- the Bad News -not a day to skate on it. In fact , it’s absolutely terrifying. I recognize it’s a Family Day weekend in Ontario but be kind to your family. Have a hot chocolate and skate tomorrow.

I’m hearing the government is very close to announcing a Nat’l Autism Strategy. We’ve come a long way together ever since the Senate report in 2007 calling for a strategy . Wouldn’t it be nice if it was announced before the annual @autismalliance.ca 10th annual summit in April !

I know there is a little snow coming. Now that may get in the way of my biking beside the Rideau Canal at this time of the year. While biking is great at any time of the year , the canal sits empty of skaters. The ice looks good and its thick enough. Come on NCC gives us break.

It’s the third annual Kindness Week in Canada. A special week inspired by the late Rabbi Reuven Bulka . I was simply the messenger in making it law . A time to focus on acts of kindness , volunteerism & charitable work. Thank -you to Global Dignity Canada for carrying the Torch !

As someone who knows what it is like to lose your job at CTV, my heart breaks for those who were let go this week by Bell Media. A national news network gutted , local voices silenced. In a democracy we need more competitive journalistic voices not less. Shame on Bell Media .

SPORTS!!!

So Emotional -A memorable moment in music.

If we reach a little higher we have made a friend.
Friendship at any age is a beautiful thing.

I’m so happy.

We lost another old Hill friend this month. Peter O’Malley was one of a kind. Peter worked for Ed Broadbent .On the road or on the Hill , Peter connected with everyone. There was no one funnier but Peter was also passionate about politics. A good man who loved life.

Saddened and shocked to hear the news of John’s passing. When John walked through any newsroom door, you knew it. He got things done . Over the years our paths crossed . He was especially helpful during the 1995 Turbot War. John Beattie was a true professional in my old business.

1st street hockey, now tobogganing banned by Toronto. recall my brother + I breaking the sound barrier on a crazy carpet + pair of super slider snow skates. Risk management doesn't mean banning fun. The rest of Canada is laughing + cringing @ you. What's next paper airplanes.