Is North America in a “fever dream” of chaos? Jon Liedtke joins Gene Valaitis to discuss the “horror movie” unfolding across the border, from federal escalations in Minneapolis to the “dumpster fire” of U.S. policy.

From the gentlemanly “Whiskey War” to a nightmarish era of “might makes right,” the rules of Arctic diplomacy have shattered. As the U.S. eyes Greenland and Canada contemplates a “Taliban-style” defense strategy, Jon Liedtke argues we are woefully unprepared for an asymmetric future where being an ally is now conditional.

President Trump’s statecraft is driven more by Hollywood plotlines than intelligence briefings. From the annexation of Greenland to “The Purge”-style crime policies, the “Binger-in-Chief” treats the world as a cinematic set. U.S. policy has become a dangerous feedback loop of movie tropes and “Central Casting” optics, leaving the nation trapped in a high-stakes narrative most never bought tickets for.

President Trump’s statecraft is driven more by Hollywood plotlines than intelligence briefings. From the annexation of Greenland to “The Purge”-style crime policies, the “Binger-in-Chief” treats the world as a cinematic set. U.S. policy has become a dangerous feedback loop of movie tropes and “Central Casting” optics, leaving the nation trapped in a high-stakes narrative most never bought tickets for.

As Windsor prepares for New Year’s, we reflect on the “Heartbreak Days” of the 1850s. For enslaved Black Americans, the Detroit River was more than a border; it was the perilous terminus of the Underground Railroad. While many celebrate the “Freedom Narrative,” the true history is one of grit, icy crossings, and a desperate race against “Hiring Day” auctions. Discover why we must preserve this vital piece of our collective local history.

Forget the poutine—Santa Claus might be Canada’s greatest strategic asset. Beyond the red suit and reindeer, Ottawa has executed a brilliant “soft power” play by naturalizing Saint Nick as a citizen. From issuing official ePassports to establishing the H0H 0H0 postal code, Canada is using holiday whimsy to stake a serious claim in the high-stakes battle for Arctic sovereignty. Discover why the North Pole is officially True North Strong and Free.

What started as a Cold War misprint in 1955 has evolved into a global, AI-enhanced phenomenon. On its 70th anniversary, the NORAD Santa Tracker remains a fascinating blend of military precision and holiday whimsy. From a “red phone” accident to a corporate-sponsored operation utilizing 1,500 volunteers and generative AI, discover how a cynical PR flex became the world’s most beloved Christmas tradition—and why the mission matters more than ever in 2025.

Step back 100 years to the “Rum Runner’s Christmas” of 1925. Jon Liedtke joins Gene to reveal how the frozen Detroit River became a treacherous highway for “Whiskey Six” Studebakers smuggling booze into Prohibition-era America. Discover the terrifying “Open Door Rule” drivers used to survive the ice, how Windsor’s smugglers helped build Las Vegas, and the ironic role reversal facing today’s alcohol industry.

“Globalize the intifada” isn’t a slogan; it’s a target placed on Jewish journalists. Yet, Canadian media advocacy groups remain deafeningly silent. The industry has decided Jewish safety is a “liability” not worth the risk. This isn’t just cowardice; it’s a betrayal. We aren’t waiting for permission to exist. If you won’t defend the truth, get out of the way.

Hanukkah 2025 has been a battle between light and darkness. From the horrific tragedy in Bondi Beach to thwarted terror plots in Toronto, the threat of antisemitism has never felt more immediate. Yet, Windsor’s community gathered at the riverfront to light the menorah in defiance. This post reflects on a week of grief, resilience, and the urgent need to confront rising hate in Canada before it’s too late.

A century ago, the Windsor-Detroit border was the epicenter of a global black market, funneling 75% of Prohibition-era booze into the U.S. via “Whiskey Six” Studebakers racing across the ice. Today, the roles have flipped, as Canada’s liquor monopolies hold the cards in a sophisticated trade war. Discover how Windsor evolved from America’s legendary bartender to its most formidable economic gatekeeper.

Toronto police arrested three ISIS-linked men—Waleed Khan, Osman Azizov, and Fahad Sadaat—for attempted abductions targeting Jewish women, seizing an AR-style rifle and high-capacity magazines. Khan faces terrorism charges, including conspiracy to commit murder. Amid soaring antisemitism, Jews—less than 1% of Canada’s population—endured nearly 70% of religious hate crimes in 2024.

In the wake of the tragic Bondi Beach attack, Canadian Jews responded with defiance and joy. From Windsor to Jerusalem, The CJN readers shared photos of public menorah lightings and window displays, showcasing a global spirit of resilience. Explore this moving collection of Hanukkah celebrations that refused to be dimmed.

The Bondi Beach massacre, where an ISIS-radicalized duo killed 15, exposes a lethal failure in security coordination. As antisemitic incidents surge globally—including a 124% rise in Canada—this tragedy serves as a haunting warning. We must address systemic radicalization and legislative gaps before more lives are lost to preventable hate.

Tonight’s celebration was a welcome solace. Amid a heightened police presence—a sad reality for Jewish events today—our community gathered to kindle the lights, defy darkness, and honor our faith. Heartfelt thanks to the local leaders who stood with us in solidarity. Chag Chanukah Sameach! 🕎

11 Jews dead (so far…) simply for being Jewish. I woke up to this horrific news on the same day my community lights Hanukkah candles. I hate that there hasn’t been a celebration—THAT I CAN REMEMBER—without fear. Tragic. Bleak. Reality. We have been screaming about this. Our leaders fail us.

Why does buying cannabis feel different in every province? It comes down to Canada’s constitutional division of powers. While Ottawa set the “federal floor” by legalizing possession, provinces built the “walls” regarding retail, age limits, and home cultivation. This article unpacks the resulting regulatory patchwork, featuring expert insights on how local restrictions shape the consumer experience and the industry’s future.

Why is Canada’s cannabis market a regulatory “patchwork quilt”? Catch my recent appearance on the Gene Valaitis Show (610CKTB), where I break down the constitutional tug-of-war between Ottawa and the provinces. We discuss why home-grow rules differ by region, the confusion around consumption lounges, and how “Provincial Restrictiveness” shapes the industry. Featuring insights from experts like Andrew Hathaway and Trina Fraser, we explore why this complex system is a constitutional feature, not a flaw. Listen now to understand the legal mechanics behind your local cannabis laws.

Jon Liedtke appears on The Gene Valaitis Show to discuss Ontario’s speed cameras, debating their role in road safety versus revenue generation. Concerns arise over disappearing municipal revenues and government failures regarding signage and materials, impacting public perception of competence. The Premier’s background adds irony to these administrative issues.

Canada’s medical system is facing a crisis: while millions of Canadians lack a family doctor, universities train international physicians for regimes like Saudi Arabia, who pay $100,000 per student. Critics argue this hundred million dollar program is fundamentally flawed, prioritizing foreign funds and training the “away team” while thousands of Canadians die waiting for care.

Canadian medical schools prioritize Saudi Arabian cash over domestic access, selling 1,000 residency spots annually to foreign governments while thousands of qualified Canadians each year are forced to train abroad. Our public institutions have created a “First Class” tier for the highest bidder while leaving Canadian taxpayers in waiting rooms. It’s time to end the sell-out.

U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra demanded Canada buy F-35 fighter jets to secure USMCA renewal, causing economic harm and job losses along the 401 corridor. This aggressive, unprofessional tactic reflects U.S. President Trump’s prioritization of trade leverage over traditional diplomacy.

Canada’s industrial heartlands are reeling as Mark Carney’s government battles the economic “Pincer Crisis.” US tariffs threaten mass layoffs, hitting Ontario’s factories and demanding a massive $78.3 billion budget to act as a “Trump Shield.” Carney’s political survival hinges on whether this debt-fueled gamble can save jobs and sovereignty.

Major Fred Tilston, VC – The Pharmacist Who Refused to Fail. The Windsor-born pharmacist earned the Victoria Cross during the brutal 1945 battle for the Rhine. Despite being severely wounded twice in the Hochwald Forest, Tilston refused evacuation, leading three impossible charges that broke the German line. He kept fighting until he collapsed, losing both legs but saving his company. A true “Blockbuster” hero.

Budget 2025 analysis: The government is splitting the books, promising “generational investments” in infrastructure while making deep “operational” cuts. We explore the $70B deficit, the new PSW tax credit, and what this “austerity and investment” plan means for Canadians. Read our full breakdown.

Amid major border security concerns like Fentanyl and illegal guns, the Canadian government has launched a surprising investigation into cheap paper plates from China. Learn why the CBSA is probing the “dumping” of what it calls “thermo-folded molded fiber tableware” and how it connects to a $150 million Canadian market and wider trade tensions.

“The Road Between Us” is a necessarily hard watch, intercutting live-streamed Hamas GoPro footage from October 7th with one family’s harrowing fight for survival. The film centers on a retired colonel and grandfather who risked everything to save his loved ones, creating an unforgettable portrait of terror and tenacity that is as unflinching as it is ultimately uplifting.

Donald J. Trump announces a breakthrough peace plan, with Israel and Hamas agreeing to release all hostages soon. The plan aims for a lasting peace, involving Arab nations, the U.S., and more. Trump credits mediators like Qatar and Turkey, citing it as a historic step. Read more!

Two years on from October 7’s Black Sabbath—Hamas’s bloodbath claiming 1,200 Jewish lives, the deadliest since the Holocaust. Gaza’s crisis deepens amid human shields; regional fires rage with Hezbollah, Houthis, Iran. Trump’s peace plan: demilitarize, hostages home, or face obliteration. Yet Western antisemitism surges—Canada’s hate crimes explode, “vigils” glorify murder. Time to heal our divides with empathy.

### Our Holiest Day, Their Vile Hatred: A Synagogue Under Siege It was Yom Kippur—the Day of Atonement—when Jews bare our souls in prayer. Yesterday, that vulnerability became a target at Manchester’s Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation. A terrorist’s car-ramming and stabbing spree turned sanctity into slaughter. Two dead, more fighting for life. This isn’t shock; it’s the predictable poison of unchecked antisemitism exploding 147% in the UK. We’re heartbroken, furious—but unbreakable. Am Yisrael Chai.

This Yom Kippur, like every Yom Kippur, all Jews stand together, carrying the profound weight of the past year. The memories of those lost on & since Oct 7th & the ongoing trauma sit with us continually. Our prayers for them are woven into our deepest confessions. Our collective confession, the “Ashamnu” hits differently this… Read more: You Won’t Believe What The Shofar Really Means For Us This Year

Join Jon Liedtke for a witty kvetch on the weekend’s chaos: debunking Canadian healthcare myths, mocking Trump’s medbed fantasies, suspected Russian drone chicken games, & calling out David Hogg’s antisemitic AIPAC trope.

As we welcome Rosh Hashanah 5786, we reflect on the remarkable 200-year journey of Windsor’s Jewish community. From its beginnings with pioneers like Moses David to its formal establishment in the 1890s, our history is one of resilience and strength. This New Year, we honour that legacy by praying for peace, remembering those lost, and reaffirming our commitment to fighting antisemitism. Shanah Tovah U’Metukah to our community and all Jews worldwide.

As Canada’s cannabis industry evolves, grow stores face new challenges. From thriving in the shadows of prohibition to basking in the spotlight of legalization, these businesses now grapple with market stagnation. Explore how shifting regulations, competition, and consumer trends are reshaping the role of grow stores in the cannabis landscape.

ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! after Kimmel’s monologue on Charlie Kirk’s murder, criticizing the “MAGA gang.” Trump administration pressure and FCC threats reportedly drove the decision, alarming free speech advocates. This precedent threatens media and satire. Will it spark a backlash or more censorship? The stakes for 2025’s discourse are high.

A petition demanding Mohammad Faki be stripped of his Order of Canada is gaining traction. Organizers cite his “dehumanizing” social media comments about supporters of Israel. Faki calls it a smear campaign, while petitioners argue his remarks violate the honor’s standards. The debate highlights tensions over free speech and national awards.

Jon Liedtke is a member of the International Association of Genocide Scholars.

In this episode of KVETCH with Jon Liedtke, I am joined by two Canadian ex-pats who decided to leave the country in search of a new home, far away from the ongoing antisemitism that Canada has been experiencing on an unrelenting basis. Joe Roberts and Michael Sachs of the Jewish Federation of Tulsa Oklahoma, USA join.

Ari Aster’s 2025 bleak satirical Western “Eddington” is a must-see. Set in pandemic-era New Mexico, it masterfully explores COVID-19’s local disruption, BLM protests, Antifa fears, extremism, and unraveling community trust. Joaquin Phoenix and Pedro Pascal star as opposing officials. With stellar performances (Stone, Butler), it’s a resonant, urgent look back. See it ASAP! (Beware the headfuck ending).

Mark Carney’s promise to recognize a Palestinian state based on “preconditions” is cynical political theater, designed to appease progressives while ensuring no change. His conditions—Hamas’ exclusion, Gaza’s demilitarization, and free elections—are unachievable, rewarding terrorism and betraying both Palestinians and Israelis. Canada deserves principled leadership, not performative gestures.

This week’s Friday Round Up, hosted by Shane Hewitt with Jon Liedtke and Andrew Caddell, explores unwinding breaks, Hulk Hogan’s wrestling and cultural legacy, Canada-US trade concerns, tariffs’ impact on Windsor’s auto industry, and strained border relations affecting supply chains.

At Windsor’s Breakfast for Israel, former Hamas hostage and Time 100 Most Influential People 2025 Noa Argamani, shared her 245-day captivity ordeal and advocated for the release of remaining hostages, including her partner. Despite protests, some antisemitic, the event raised funds for Israel’s Ashdod Rehab Centre, supporting trauma victims, children with disabilities, and pediatric cancer patients.

Jon Liedtke is featured on CNN to comment on President Trump’s 25% tariffs levied on Canada and how Canadians are feeling.

Adam Zivo, founder and executive director of the Centre for Responsible Drug Policy, joins Jon Liedtke to discuss his latest article, “Meth-fueled orgies are bad”, published on The Line, and the dangers of chemsex, a practice prevalent in the gay community. Zivo explains that chemsex is the practice of having sex, often in groups, while… Read more: Why meth-fueled orgies are bad

On International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we honor the six million Jews & countless others lost, & remind that Never Again is an ongoing endeavor for all.

Adam Zivo (Centre for Responsible Drug Policy & Breaking Needles) Canadian Safe Supply programs in 2024 & what 2025 will bring to national drug policy

Hytt Films owner Drew Hyttenrauch discusses DRONEGATE over New Jersey, what the unidentified aerial phenomena may be, and advances in drone technology.

Ward 3 councillor Renaldo Agostino discusses Windsor axing the new H4 Homelessness Hub location due to costs & the need for another new location.

The Round Up Panel discusses the future of the Liberals, Canada’s immigration consensus unraveling, a proposed $32.5-billion tobacco settlement, & more!

Phog Lounge & Meteor owner Tom Lucier discusses a Windsor Judge ordering restitution, but not jail, for a serial downtown business window smasher.

City of Windsor Housing Administration and Development coordinator Kelly Goz discusses the 2024 Point-in-Time Homeless Enumeration.

Windsor Tecumseh MPP Andrew Dowie discusses Ontario moving to restrict new bike lanes in municipalities if they require the removal of traffic lanes.

Ontario Convenience Stores Association chair & Midway Convenience owner Terry Yaldo discuss if alcohol is helping to revive the convenience store sector.

University of Windsor Political Science department head Lydia Miljan discusses whether it’s time for Prime Minister Trudeau to step down from his role.

Ward 3 councillor Renaldo Agostino discusses new polling showing Ontarians want Premier Ford to do more about encampments, & what needs to be done locally.

Ward 9 councillor Kieran McKenzie discusses proposed legislation requiring cities to seek provincial approval for new bike lanes that remove vehicle lanes.

Jamie Ellerton, Caryma Sa’d, & Jon Liedtke join Newstalk 1010’s Shane Hewitt & The Night Shift to exchange puns about Thanksgiving turkey prices.

Party For Two discusses Mark Carney joining the Liberals, an the NDP ending the deal with the Liberals, the Bloc & by-elections, & social media regulations.

Frazier, Kristen, & Jon are the panel and discuss Windsor grabbing $2mil for surpassing housing targets, a city hall comms shakeup, hospital hack monetary fallout for not paying the ransom, Tecumseh enabling a doubling of housing stock and getting $15mil & Lakeshore allowing fourplexes hoping to get $$$, Windsor pizza named number one in Canada, & Windsor’s geese population NEEDS repercussions.

UWindsor political science department head Dr. Lydia Miljan discusses what to make of the Liberals campaign director resigning & election speculation.

Ward 9 councillor Kieran McKenzie discuss a cyclist charged for running a red after colliding with a vehicle a reminder why all road users must follow laws.

Windsor West MP Masse calls for hazardous materials kept off Ambassador Bridge, & status of Ojibway National Urban Park post-end of NDP & Liberal deal.

Salvation Army’s new executive director Jason Linton joins Jon Liedtke on AM800 CKLW to discuss his new role and the Centre for Hope.

Windsor Eats’ co-owner Adriano Ciotoli discusses new food collaborations including Cinnamon Toast Crunch BACON, KFC & KD Mac & Cheese, & Sour Patch Oreos.

CTV Calgary’s Alesia Fieldberg discusses Calgary using water at an ‘unsustainable rate’ & what it means for ongoing water issues resulting from repairs.

Liberal strategist Andrew Perez discusses the NDP ending its agreement with the Liberals and if its a smart move, election speculation, and what comes next.

President of Friends of Ojibway Prairie Mike Fisher discusses if there are concerns for Ojibway National Urban Park advancing with the NDP/LPC deal ending.

University of Windsor’s first woman Chancellor Dr. Mary Jo Haddad discusses her time as Chancellor, her accomplishments, and what comes next.

Green Day concert attendee Kristen Siapas & drone videographer Drew Hyttenrauch discuss Green Day rushed offstage from their Detroit show due to a drone.

Convenience Industry Council of Canada’s Jeff Brownlee discusses Ontario alcohol retail expansion, ending ‘antiquated, prohibition’ rules & 9,300 new jobs.

Flavio Volpe discusses forecasts saying Stellantis eyeing 4 vehicles in Windsor: Dodge SUV & Charger EV & gas, Chrysler crossover, Pacifica & Grand Caravan.

Windsor West MPP Lisa Gretzky discusses the two year anniversary of Ontario launching online gambling and what the risks are to those with addiction issues.

Windsor West Conservative Party of Canada riding association president Al Teshuba discuss the NDP pulling out of supply & confidence deal with the Liberals.

Goldmar Property Management’s Patrice Surette discusses 2024 international student study permits set 35% less than 2023 at 360K & how it impacts rentals.

Dr. Derek Debicki discusses a new brain imaging technique to detect “preserved consciousness” in apparent comatose patients following severe brain injury.

Former US Ambassador to Canada Bruce Heyman discusses Democrats Abroad rallying support for Harris-Walz to inspire voters to stop former President Trump.

Ward 7 councillor Angelo Marignani discusses Canada Geese dropping creating issues at Sandpoint Beach & different strategies to consider before a cull.

Windsor Tecumseh MP Brian Masse discusses China retaliating over EV tariffs with anti-dumping probe into Canadian canola imports.

Ward 3 councillor Renaldo Agostino joins Jon Liedtke on AM800 CKLW to discuss Windsor city administration saving Canadian Geese from a death cull & what mitigation measures are being considered to stop out of control population growth that one councillor is calling dangerous and a bio-hazard. This interview aired on AM800 CKLW. Find more of… Read more: Canada Geese not recommended for death by city administration

Windsor Tecumseh MPP Andrew Dowie discusses Tecumseh receiving 15 million dollars from the province for housing related infrastructure.

OSSTF President Karen Littlewood discusses the new school year & why she thinks Premier Ford is gambling with the future of students & education system.

Tech Expert Carmi Levy discusses the most risky private spaceflight, Neuralink may have fixed its brain implants, & telecom fined $1mil for Biden deepfake.

Former GOP congressman Joe Walsh joins discusses the 2024 USA Presidential Election and why former President Donald Trump must be stopped.

Erin Roy (District President, Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation) discusses what parents and guardians need to know about BACK TO SCHOOL!

The Roundtable discusses Labour Day weekend plans, if the NDP should force an election, how to end homelessness, & police find stolen vehicle with new tech.

Jerry & Jon discuss parents worried about flooding & schools, convenience store sells alcohol illegally, police tech, & Essex: Canada’s Pickleball Capital!

PowerPlay.com’s Head of Content Larry Fisher discusses who Canadians are betting on to win the U.S. presidency, & how single event betting changed the game.

Windsor Jewish Federation executive director Marion Zeller discusses over 100 bomb threats targeted at Canadian Jewish institutions in one day.

The Line columnist Adam Zivo discusses how Ukraine flipped the script by invading Russia, why Ukraine still needs allied support, & what might come next.

Essex MPP Anthony Leardi discusses new policies protecting agricultural land amid energy expansion and why it is necessary for our growing province.

Doug, Jon and Frazier talk about the Mayor’s comments on allegations against the chief of Police, library staff speaking out about violence and harrasment downtown, an encampment near the Legacy Beacon Streetcar, and the federal government identifying surplus federal property for affordable housing.

Dr. Kara Brisson-Boivin, MediaSmarts’ Director of Research, to discuss mounting concerns around youth device & social media usage & what you should know.

Drew Hyttenrauch of Hytt Films joins me to discuss the first-person drone video he produced of the SEARS demolition and the art of drone videography.

Windsor Tecumseh MPP Andrew Dowie discusses beer, cider, wine, & mixed drinks expanding to convenience stores on Sept. 5 & what it means for Ontario.

APMA President Flavio Volpe discusses Canada imposing a 100% tariff on Chinese-made electric vehicles and 25% surtax on Chinese steel & aluminum.

Windsor West MP Brian Masse discusses Ottawa limiting the temporary foreign worker program after mounting criticism of abuse the government acknowledges.

Podcast producer at Go Tell Someone Podcasts Ryan Richardson discusses Saturday Night Live turning 50, his new SNL podcast, and the impact of SNL.

Phog Lounge owner Tom Lucier & Windsor Eats co-owner Adriano Ciotoli discuss Phog Lounge moving to Erie Street next to Windsor Eats and Craft Heads.

University of Ottawa’s chair of Ukrainian studies Dominique Arel discusses a Russian missile and drone attack shortly after Ukrainian Independence Day.

EnergiMedia publisher and CEO Markham Hislop discusses why Ontario should care about Alberta energy production & how the energy transition affect us all.