Saturday, November 2, 2024
MUNICIPAL COUNCILS ARE KILLING OUR DEMOCRACTIC RIGHTS?
MUNICIPAL COUNCILS ARE KILLING
OUR DEMOCRACTIC RIGHTS?
Democracy is often said to mean 'rule by the people'. An example of this is any system of government in which people vote their elected representatives into parliament, Federal, Provincial & Municipal.
Today, we the people are being robbed of our democratic rights not by some foreign power but by our very own elected representatives and they’re doing it right in front of us, and we’re letting them, how?
While we are busy in our day to day lives 208 of the 444 Municipal Councils across Ontario were busy writing letters to the AMO (Association of Municipalities of Ontario), to Premier Doug Ford and to the Hon. Paul Calandra asking that the Municipal Act 2001 be changed to allow Municipal Councils to fire an elected colleague.
In addition these elected municipal councils also want to ban a so called fired elected colleague from running in the next election.
So they want to make sure that we the people can’t vote the colleague back in. What are these municipal councils afraid of?
Municipal Councils, our local elected representatives have been creating and passing by-laws against the people, that they are supposed to be working for. These By-laws have been taking away the rights of we the people to have a say in what’s happening in our communities. Some examples
- lowering the amount of time a citizen can speak to 5 minutes from 10 minutes
- not allowing resident, a visitor, to show their feelings by clapping, cheering, booing, or having a sign while in council chambers.
In Durham, Pickering Municipal Council these past two years have passed numerous by-laws to quiet, to suppress you the residents and neighbours, to voice any concerns about your city. Some are;
1 - ban the media from attending and filming unless they get voted permission from 2/3 ‘s
of council
2 - ban private citizens from recording or filming meetings
3 - removed the open question opportunity
4 - only Pickering residents can speak to a topic on the agenda if they register by noon
on meeting day
5 - ban members of the public from speaking who are not Pickering residents or Pickering
tax payers
6 - no longer allow Pickering residents to speak to a topic of concern when submitted 10 days prior to a meeting. Pickering Residents must now have their request (topic) approved, seconded and then have 2/3 ‘s vote to allow the resident to speak about their concern..
NOTE - This it’s just in Pickering where this is happening, it’s quietly happening in many of the Ontario municipalities. It has been more widely publicized about Pickering’s Municipal Council’s indifference and attack removing the democratic rights of citizens, the people who elected them.
The Federal Government is taking away our rights to freedom of speech with Bill C-63 The Online
Harms Act. - It’s not just about internet child pornography, it also goes onto penalizing your free speech. Check it out. All Bills can be found online at the appropriate government web site.
So the Question is ………….. Do You Still Want Democracy ?
“Do we want our democratic rights stripped away and silenced by a dictatorship as Pickering Council is doing or, are we finally going to wake up, stand up and speak up, to protect our democratic rights and the democratic rights of our children and our future generations, as our ancestors stood for us?”
Please, if you want to keep your democratic rights alive the take an interest in what’s been happening in your community. If you don’t have the time to attend council meetings, you can go online and find the agendas, the minutes and view the meetings live or at your convenience anytime.
Enter to, ….... Pickering.ca/en/cityhall.aspx ….... once there select council meetings, then select
calendar. Here you can select any date and category, all meetings go back for years.
Have your voice heard, get the, City Clerk’s email, then let the clerk know your opinion about anything you agree or disagree with what the council does. Make sure to include that you want your email given to every member of council and the clerk by law has to distribute as you requested.
Remember Silence Solves Nothing, Stand Up & Speak Up For Your Democratic Rights.
Before Municipal Councils continue voting by-laws to remove them. GET INVOLVED. 
We The People’s Voice in Danger – Pickering Council’s Attempt to Override Democracy
We The People’s Voice
in Danger – Pickering Council’s
Attempt to Override Democracy
By Lisa Robinson
As an elected representative, I am profoundly, no I am disgustingly disturbed by the recent push by all of my fellow council members, including the Mayor, to secure the power to remove an elected official based solely on a City-Paid Integrity Commissioner’s recommendation - one they can request themselves and then vote on internally. This draconian maneuver represents a fundamental attack on democracy, granting council members unprecedented authority to silence dissenting voices under the pretense of enforcing “accountability.”
One of the biggest concerns here is that these changes would give unelected officials, such as the City-Paid Integrity Commissioners, the power to remove elected officials from office.
Right now, it’s the voters who hold elected officials accountable, as mandated by Section 224 of the Municipal Act, which ensures that council members represent the public. Handing over the power to remove elected officials to unelected officials undermines the core democratic principle that it’s the voters who should decide if their representatives stay in office.
This doesn’t just affect Pickering; it sets a dangerous precedent for the entire province. If these measures pass, elected officials could be removed in any Ontario municipality without the public’s say. Integrity Commissioners, originally intended to investigate and recommend penalties like fines or temporary suspensions under Section 223.3 of the Municipal Act, would instead wield the authority to expel officials from office entirely, a power that could easily be abused. The democratic process could then be easily sidestepped based on subjective decisions rather than the will of the voters. If you’ve been following my updates on YouTube (Lisa Robinson) or reading my weekly column here in The Central, you’ll have seen how the Act is already being used as a tool to repeatedly suspend a member’s pay for up to 90 days at a time. With no cap on how often these penalties can be imposed, the threat of financial punishment is wielded continuously against those who dare to challenge the prevailing narrative.
Adding to this, council’s proposal includes provisions to bar any council member removed from office from running in the next election. This is a clear act of political suppression and election tampering, preventing officials from re-seeking office without giving the public any voice in that decision. According to Section 3 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, every citizen has the right to run for office and choose their representatives. Blocking someone from running again without allowing the voters to weigh in is an affront to basic democratic rights and an attempt to manipulate election outcomes.
This push comes amid existing council-imposed restrictions that already limit what Pickering residents can address in public meetings. We’re witnessing an alarming attempt to stifle public voices, dictating what residents can and cannot speak about, effectively filtering out any opposition. As if vetoing the community’s agenda wasn’t enough, now these members are trying to dictate who can even sit in office, directly undermining the democratic process.
And let’s be clear: if council members were genuinely concerned about “safety,” they would address misconduct evenly, regardless of political alignment. When Councillor Brenner publicly threatened to “sharpen his sword” to “decapitate the Mayor” or made a disturbing comment about “sticking a knife in my back, slowly twisting it, and I’d never know until he was pulling it out,” council took no action.
These comments would have raised alarm if safety were truly the priority. But since these remarks came from within council’s circle of influence, no repercussions followed. Meanwhile, I, the only council member to raise concerns about corruption, collusion, perceived blackmail, and manipulation of city records, am singled out. Council’s message is loud and clear: they will protect their own at all costs, wielding Integrity Commissioner reports as tools to silence those who challenge their actions.
Their proposed changes, masquerading under Bill 207, the Municipal Accountability and Integrity Act, 2024, disguise authoritarian controls as “measures for inclusion and safety.” This legislation would allow council members to engineer Integrity Commissioner reviews and remove dissenting officials, fostering an environment in which public servants can be ousted for standing up against the status quo. This isn’t about democracy - it’s about suppression.
The hypocrisy is undeniable. The same council members who claim these measures promote “diversity, equity, and inclusion” are pushing changes that would strip away democratic protections for minority voices. True diversity should allow for a range of ideas, especially those that challenge the status quo. By imposing authoritarian controls, council is advancing only its own narrow narrative and silencing any countering perspectives.
It’s also alarming how they manipulate communication with the public to advance their agenda. Council meetings are increasingly shrouded in secrecy: restrictions prevent residents from recording meetings, and public press media, are censored or
quietly buried, ensuring critical statements and events never reach the community. This stranglehold on information allows council to present only its version of events, shielding themselves from accountability.
Pickering Council’s actions reveal a government more focused on consolidating power than on serving the people. These council members have abandoned their duty to represent, choosing instead to suppress, control, and tamper with the very democratic process they were elected to uphold.
They show little respect for the voices of the people who entrusted them with power, and if they cannot honor that responsibility, they should step down. Elected officials should represent, not purge, silence, or manipulate those they disagree with.
Haunted Houses Theresa Grant
SNIP DURHAM
Before Spending Money on a ‘Career Coach,’ Do Yourself a Favour, First Try These Job Search Strategies
Before Spending Money on a ‘Career Coach,’ Do Yourself a Favour, First Try These Job Search Strategies
By Nick Kossovan
I'm sure you're aware of the "career coaching" industry—Internet talking heads promising job search and career success—that's sprung up in recent years. Worth noting: The industry is unregulated. All career coaches are self-proclaimed; no certification or licensing is required.
Career coaches have one ultimate goal: To make money off you. Today's tight job market is making job seekers frustrated and desperate, which career coaches are taking advantage of with their promise of insider knowledge, personalized guidance, and a direct line to the hidden job market. Career coaches market themselves as a shortcut to finding a job, which is appealing when you've been unemployed for a while.
I'm not averse to hiring a career coach to assist you with your job search; it's your money. However, keep in mind a career coach... · is a significant expense, especially if you're unemployed · will only offer common sense advice, nothing that you probably already don't know or haven't read or heard before, and · doesn't have insider knowledge ...and you'll still need to do the activities related to job searching.
When asked, "Nick, should I hire a career coach?" my answer is an unequivocal "No!" Conducting your job search solo will not only save you money, you'll also be developing job search skills you'll need for the next time—chances are there'll be a next time—you're job hunting. Before spending thousands of dollars on a career coach, I suggest first trying the following job search strategies.
Optimize your online presence.
In today's digital-first job market, employers will check your online digital footprint to evaluate your candidacy; are your interview-worthy? Start with the obvious: Ensure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and showcases your quantified accomplishments (a non-quantified statement is an opinion) so employers can see the value you can add. Do yourself a favour, read LinkedIn Mastery: A Comprehensive Guide to Navigating Digital Landscapes Effectively, by Benjamin Stone.
Necessary: Stay active on LinkedIn!
Your LinkedIn profile can't be non-active. Maximizing LinkedIn's potential requires regularly engaging with content, commenting on posts, and contributing original content. Engaging actively and visibly on LinkedIn will lead to opportunities.
Next: · List your social media accounts. · Deactivate accounts you are no longer using.
· Set any accounts you don't want prospective employers or recruiters to see to private.
· Ensure your social media profiles (e.g., display name, handle, headshot, bio) convey the same message about your professional background.
Leverage your existing network (a low-hanging fruit few job seekers take advantage of).
Everyone has a network of some sort. This means since all job opportunities are attached to people—good news—there are job opportunities all around you. Often, your barista, dentist, hairstylist, neighbours, fellow members of whatever club or association you're a part of, and, of course, family and friends can help open doors for you. Tell everyone you know that you're looking for a new job. Always carry extra copies of your resume and hand them out when appropriate. You'll be surprised at the number of people willing to help you when they understand your situation.
Read these two books:
· Never Eat Alone, by Keith Ferrazzi - Ferrazzi outlines practical strategies for building relationships, networking, and leveraging connections. · Finish What You Start, by Peter Hollins
Hollins provides actionable strategies for achieving your job search and career goals, such as overcoming procrastination and boosting productivity with focus and discipline.
Apply less, connect more.
Applying online is a waste of time. In previous columns, I've noted that applying online is comparable to playing the lottery; you're hoping a stranger hires you. Numerous studies have shown that most jobs aren't advertised; they're filled through connections and referrals.
Job searching today is a long game; you need to be patient. Today, you need to network your way into a company and identify opportunities, which no career coach can do for you. It's unlikely the resume you submit online will be reviewed. Paying to have your resume redesigned won't get it more views; getting it in front of people who can hire you will.
Take what you will from the following.
A few months back, a job seeker asked me, "I've been working as a help desk agent at a healthcare software company for five years. I want to become a Director of IT at a large multinational company. What should I do?" How should I know? I'm not a Director of IT. Why not ask the Director of IT at a large multinational company?
Take advantage of the fact that people love talking about themselves. Dinner with someone who holds the position you aspire to is a better investment than hiring a career coach who lacks your dinner partner's real-world experience. I charted my career path by observing those ahead of me and seeking their advice. Talking to people who are where you want to be will benefit your job search and help you achieve your career aspirations.
By shifting your mindset, optimizing your online presence, leveraging your existing network, staying engaged on LinkedIn, and connecting with the right people, you won't need to hire a costly career coach, and you'll develop skills you can use throughout your career.
_____________________________________________________________________
Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned veteran of the corporate landscape, offers advice on searching for a job. You can send him your questions at artoffindingwork@gmail.com
Unlocking Our Northern Resources is Canada’s Future
Unlocking Our Northern Resources is Canada’s Future
by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC,
FEC, CET, P. Eng.
Former Member of Parliament
Pickering-Scarborough East
Our country has the second largest land mass in the world, and it has a treasure trove of Natural Resources that we are not using. The Northern stretches of our country are particularly well endowed, but sadly, they are also particularly ignored. During my tenure in the House of Commons, I always looked for ways to develop the Canadian Arctic both economically and as an essential part of the defence of Canada.
Canada's three territories, Nunavut, the Northwest Territories and Yukon - account for nearly 40 percent of the country's land mass and have a coastline that is twice as long as the Atlantic and Pacific coasts combined.
However, Northerners number only about 114,000, with many living in the territorial capitals of Iqaluit, Yellowknife and Whitehorse.
Indigenous peoples make up 86 percent of the population of Nunavut, 51 percent in the Northwest Territories and 23 percent in Yukon. The North is a place with many settled land claims and boasts a world-class geology.
There are many different natural resources in the Arctic region of Canada. The land has gold and other minerals like zinc and copper, as well as diamonds. There are many mines in the Arctic for extracting these minerals and diamonds that provide jobs. Canada is the third largest producer of diamonds in the world.
These diamond mines, strategic minerals and large oil and gas reserves could form the basis of a lucrative materials industry. In addition, the rich and unique cultures of our Northern territories could attract visitors from around the world, contributing to a thriving tourism industry. Thus, the North has the potential to become an engine for economic growth for the entire country and a destination for investment.
The potential for wealth and job creation through resource development in the North is tremendous. Managed in a sustainable manner, Canada's incredible natural resources, including living marine resources such as fisheries, could contribute to the prosperity of Northerners and all Canadians for generations.
These resources have the potential to be a cornerstone for sustained economic activity in the North and throughout Canada. The only problem is that Canadian governments since WW2 have had little interest in developing the country as a whole. They have remained focused on the old established settlements around the three big cities, Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver, and a narrow strip of land North of the US border.
There have not been any new ideas, let alone revolutionary ones, for developing the country, cluttering the minds or desks of any politicians in the recent past. They limit themselves in the House of Commons to producing and pursuing imaginary political fights without any substance. Unfortunately, this trend continues in our current times, and shows no signs of abating.
It is time to ask our politicians outright, what they are prepared to do today, for developing Canada; to establish new settlements and develop northern resources. Here is where the real future of Canada lies, not in fruitless and imaginary financial manipulations and corporate welfare.
The federal government has the opportunity to unlock the North’s enormous potential for the benefit of all Canadians. Let us hope that one day soon they will do just that.
The North is often viewed through the lens of its challenges — vast distances, harsh climates, and small populations — but these very factors make the North an exciting opportunity for Canada. As global attention focuses on critical minerals, climate resilience, and the Arctic’s geopolitical significance, the strategic potential of the North has never been clearer.
The vastness of the North, while an asset, also poses real challenges. Nearly half of the communities lack year-round road access, leaving them isolated from essential goods and services. As climate change accelerates, northern supply chains are increasingly threatened by shorter winter-road seasons and lower water levels for barging. The impact of these changes has already been felt, with the rising cost of living and lost economic opportunities.
Here, then, is the importance of federal investments in the North, rather than in futile and very costly international projects and subsidies.
The importance of investing in Canada’s North cannot be overstressed.
We need to invest in climate-resilient infrastructure including all-season roads and energy and communications corridors to strengthen the North’s connection to the rest of Canada. We must ensure that Canada’s link to the Arctic remains secure, and we must unlock its economic potential. The North is warming at four times the global average, and the consequences of climate change are already reshaping life there.
The North is Canada’s next horizon. Through strategic investments in housing, infrastructure, climate resilience, and critical minerals, the federal government has the opportunity to unlock the North’s enormous potential for the benefit of all Canadians.
So how can we alert the Canadian political world to making the development of the North a first priority?
What do you think?
A CONVERSATION WITH PICKERING MAYOR KEVIN ASHE -WOULD A PROVINCIAL CODE OF CONDUCT FOR MUNICIPALITIES WORK?-
‘LEST WE FORGET’
‘LEST WE FORGET’
By Joe Ingino
B.A. Psychology
Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers
ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000
Published Columns in Canada and The United States
‘LEST WE FORGET’ - As an immigrant to this great Nation. I stand here before you during these times of Remembrance and admire all those before me that proudly called themselves Canadians.
the good folk that did all they could to preserve all that is good about Canada. Our history, our culture our, languages, our traditions and most importantly our way of life.
A people that had standards, the right kind of pride. Most importantly they had basic human decency. They respected each others differences and not celebrated fallacious misconceptions of obvious differences.
During times of need. The people united for the common good. Civility was the end goal and purpose in society.
The country had a united social responsibility and agenda. One to live as the bible had intended. Free, and glorious.
Respect everyone as you would like to be respected. Treat others as you would like to be treated.
The rule of law reign supreme and every citizen upheld the importance of its role in society. Respect, was a badge of honor.
Duty to nation was never compromised or questioned. We as Canadians did what we had to do.
Many gave, others sacrificed and others prayed that all would return home safe and sound.
Unfortunately many that served never made it back. Their valor and commitment to our great Nation is why today we stand on this land and enjoy our rights and freedoms.
Rights and freedoms that are our duty to uphold. To respect and appreciate. To assure that no foreign entity changes, compromises and or questions. We are Canadians for a reason. We live in Canada free and glorious by our own free will.
On November 11. Do not just stand there. Give yourself the freedom to vow that if called upon that you will follow the bravery of those fallen, champion their commitment and their valor to take arms against any foreign threat and or challenge that calls on the compromise of our culture, our languages, our traditions and our way of life.
Those that fought in the trenches full of fear. Full of the unknown did it so that you did not have to. You want to honor them. Make the commitment. My envy for their valor is eternal. My respect for their convictions is beyond words. Their souls rest in my heart as I do not feel worthy that I may measure to their commitment if faced with the same advercity.
To their sacrifices. To the determination to make Canada the greatest nation in the world. This goes beyond thanking a vet. This is about putting your heart and soul on the line and assuring that all those that served know how much they are appreciated. For those fallen. Even though never met. I hope that they are still showing their valor in keeping the heavens safe.
God bless all those fallen. God bless all those serving. God Speed.
The Death of Full Service in North America: Are We Moving Backwards?
Saturday, October 26, 2024
$20.28 is slave wages
$20.28 is slave wages
Compulsory Certification is the answer
By Murray Strong
This is Local 27, of the carpenters union in Toronto, wage rates for apprentices. The apprenticeship is divided into 4 sections to complete the 7200 hours. Day 1 your rate is $24.44, plus 10% vacation pay and your benefits. First term $24.44. Second term $29.50. Third term $34.55. Fourth term $41.98. Full rate on completion of apprenticeship, fully trained, is $48.49. 10% vacation pay brings you $4.84 per hour plus the $48.49, to your back account. As you progress through the 4 terms, you get a better vacation each year.
As of Sept 25, 2024 the average hourly pay for a carpenter in the Province of Ontario, according to the government, is $20.28. Some will get a bit more some less. It is disgusting how the immigration is being handled for those seeking a life as a tradesperson. As a carpenter in any union, or nonunion worksite, tell me what protection you have in choosing carpentry. 4 years of training, colored certificate to hang on the wall or 30 to 40 years of working in the trade without the schooling. Both options suck! Ask someone who has worked or is working as a carpenter why they will not write the test offered by the government to become a journeyperson. Every answer is the same. “Why should I waste my time to get a piece of paper for my wall. This piece of paper does not protect my profession like a plumber, electrician or hairstylist. Will it give me the same rights as a Canadian? My trade is not compulsory so I have nothing.” You can see the sadness in their eyes when this subject is raised at a work lunch table. All the skilled trades unions for all trades protect their membership. That is their legal mandate if you are a member. They lobby government on the member’s behalf. Who lobbies for nonunion carpenters?
The Toronto District School Board has closed the pre apprenticeship course offered through SCAS? So sad to see it end. I will tell a couple of funny stories from my time instructing at “The Fix It Shop”. Jp was the teacher. We had 40 students, 21 years or older, male and female for 18 weeks of training as a carpenter pre apprentice. All hours at this school were deducted from their required 7200 hours. Day one we met the class. JP introduced himself and talked about a few rules. He said we are guests in this school and that we have our own entrance. Everyone work safe. He then told the class our principal Mary had no money so every penny counts. I was standing near JP and watched as he held up a single sheet of toilet paper. I didn’t know what he was doing. He told the students to pinch the center of a single sheet and tear out a small hole. Place a finger through the hole .Some people started to laugh but he stopped then said do not throw away the little piece. You will need something to clean your finger nail. The entire classroom broke out laughing. What an entrance! I asked everyone to stand up. Lift your arms as high as you can. Wiggle your fingers. Keep wiggling them as you look around the room. Do we have 10 each? Let‘s do this at the course ending. What a great experience in my life meeting all these people wanting a career. During this time I went to a supplier of construction hard hats and got an incredible deal for the students. Everyone had a brand new white hat which could be seen from miles away. Brilliant white. We were teaching how to do formwork. I noticed a gas company was building a new gas station just down the street. The men were building forms so I suggested we walk down at lunch and look it over. 40 construction workers in white hats walking down the street. The entire area had security fence completely encircling the worksite. I told the students to spread out so everyone could have a look. Students were pointing and talking between themselves. Suddenly an executive in a power suit walks up to me visibly shaking. Franticly trying to dial her phone. I said these are carpenter apprentices. Whoever she was trying to call, tried to make sense of the problem she was screaming about. Trying to explain the situation to her boss, she dropped her phone in the mud. We returned to class and carried on with the work. Apparently she thought it was a union raid. The workers at the site were nonunion. Frantic calls were made to Local 27 from top Executives of the gas company.
Why was the union doing this? Neither side knew what was going on, the Carpenter’s staff kept pleading with the company execs. The carpenters union was not trying to organize their company. When I found out how many people went crazy over this I laughed till it hurt.
Thank you Denny Crane
Hiring Is a Process of Elimination
Hiring Is a Process of
Elimination
By Nick Kossovan
Job seekers owe it to themselves to understand and accept; fundamentally, hiring is a process of elimination. Regardless of how many applications an employer receives, the ratio revolves around several applicants versus one job opening, necessitating elimination.
Essentially, job gatekeepers—recruiters, HR and hiring managers—are paid to find reasons and faults to reject candidates (read: not move forward) to find the candidate most suitable for the job and the company.
Nowadays, employers are inundated with applications, which forces them to double down on reasons to eliminate. It's no surprise that many job seekers believe that "isms" contribute to their failure to get interviews, let alone get hired. Employers have a large pool of highly qualified candidates to select from. Job seekers attempt to absolve themselves of the consequences of actions and inactions by blaming employers, the government or the economy rather than trying to increase their chances of getting hired by not giving employers reasons to eliminate them because of:
· Typos, grammatical errors, poor writing skills.
"Communication, the human connection, is the key to personal and career success." ? Paul J. Meyer.
The most vital skill you can offer an employer is above-average communication skills. Your resume, LinkedIn profile, cover letters, and social media posts should be well-written and error-free.
· Failure to communicate the results you achieved for your previous employers.
If you can't quantify (e.g. $2.5 million in sales, $300,000 in savings, lowered average delivery time by 6 hours, answered 45-75 calls daily with an average handle time of 3 and a half minutes), then it's your opinion. Employers care more about your results than your opinion.
· An incomplete LinkedIn profile.
Before scheduling an interview, the employer will review your LinkedIn profile to determine if you're interview-worthy. I eliminate any candidate who doesn't have a complete LinkedIn profile, including a profile picture, banner, start and end dates, or just a surname initial; anything that suggests the candidate is hiding something.
· Having a digital footprint that's a turnoff.
If an employer is considering your candidacy, you'll be Google. If you're not getting interviews before you assert the unfounded, overused excuse, "The hiring system is broken!" look at your digital footprint. Employers are reading your comments, viewing your pictures, etc. Ask yourself, is your digital behaviour acceptable to employers, or can it be a distraction from their brand image and reputation? On the other hand, not having a robust digital footprint is also a red flag, particularly among Gen Y and Gen Z hiring managers. Not participating on LinkedIn, social media platforms, or having a blog or website can hurt your job search.
· Not appearing confident when interviewing.
Confidence = fewer annoying questions and a can-do attitude.
It's important for employers to feel that their new hire is confident in their abilities. Managing an employee who lacks initiative, is unwilling to try new things, or needs constant reassurance is frustrating.
Job searching is a competition; you're always up against someone younger, hungrier and more skilled than you.
Besides being a process of elimination, hiring is also about mitigating risk. Therefore, being seen as "a risk" is the most common reason candidates are eliminated, with the list of "too risky" being lengthy, from age (will be hard to manage, won't be around long) to lengthy employment gaps (raises concerns about your abilities and ambition) to inappropriate social media postings (lack of judgement).
Envision you're a hiring manager hiring for an inside sales manager role. In the absence of "all things being equal," who's the least risky candidate, the one who:
· offers empirical evidence of their sales results for previous employers, or the candidate who "talks a good talk"?
· is energetic, or the candidate who's subdued?
· asks pointed questions indicating they're concerned about what they can offer the employer
or the candidate who seems only concerned about what the employer can offer them.
· posts on social media platforms, political opinions, or the candidate who doesn't share their political views?
· on LinkedIn and other platforms in criticizes how employers hire or the candidate who offers constructive suggestions?
· has lengthy employment gaps, short job tenure, or a steadily employed candidate?
· lives 10 minutes from the office or 45 minutes away?
· has a resume/LinkedIn profile that shows a relevant linear career or the candidate with a non-linear career?
· dressed professionally for the interview, or the candidate who dressed "casually"?
An experienced hiring manager (read: has made hiring mistakes) will lean towards candidates they feel pose the least risk. Hence, presenting yourself as a low-risk candidate is crucial to job search success. Worth noting, the employer determines their level of risk tolerance, not the job seeker, who doesn't own the business—no skin in the game—and has no insight into the challenges they've experienced due to bad hires and are trying to avoid similar mistakes.
"Taking a chance" on a candidate isn't in an employer's best interest. What's in an employer's best interest is to hire candidates who can hit the ground running, fit in culturally, and are easy to manage. You can reduce the odds (no guarantee) of being eliminated by demonstrating you're such a candidate.
_____________________________________________________________________
Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned veteran of the corporate landscape, offers advice on searching for a job. You can send him your questions at artoffindingwork@gmail.com
Home Selling Strategies
Home Selling
Strategies
Real Estate Columnist
Whether you put your home on the market in the Summer, Fall, Spring or Winter, there are a few things that you can do that can help your home sell faster and for more money.
One of the first things you might consider is de-personalizing the space. When potential buyers walk in, you want them to envision living in the home, making it their own. It is harder for people to do that when the walls are covered with your family photos and pictures of your beloved pets.
If you are still living in the home, it might be a good idea to rent a storage locker or container.
De- cluttering is helpful as well. It helps the potential buyer get a clear picture of the home, especially if the rooms are on the smaller side.
If rooms haven’t been painted in a while, it would be in your best interest to invest some time and money in this. Listings often advertise ‘freshly painted throughout’, it is very appealing to some people. When choosing a paint colour, always stick to neutrals to appeal to the masses as opposed to just a few who may like the distinct colour you chose.
Keeping colours light also appeals to most because if they don’t like the colour, there is not as much work to paint it over as there is with darker colours.
Rather than putting things in cupboards and closets, clean them out to make them look larger. People will certainly be opening them as storage is important to home buyers.
To really make rooms shine, it might be worthwhile to hire a cleaning service to get at every nook and cranny, areas that we often overlook.
Odors can really be a turnoff to potential buyers. Make sure that anything that can retain smell has been thoroughly cleaned. Smell is the first thing that is noticed when people walk through the door.
When cleaning and pulling things away from walls, it is a good idea to check for any minor repairs that may need to be dealt with. With some things it really doesn’t hurt to replace them with brand new ones if they look worn or dated. Like floor registers, light switches, or cabinet hardware.
Paying attention to your front entrance area can pay dividends. Always make sure the entrance is clean, clear of any shoes, coats, or bags. You do not want potential buyers tripping over anything as soon as they walk through the door.
Lighting can be very important. If you have dated lighting, it may be a good idea to invest in some newer lighting in strategic areas like the main floor. If you cannot afford to do the whole house or an entire floor, concentrate on the entry, kitchen, and bathroom.
Always try to dress up the exterior of the home where you can. Curb appeal will make potential buyers want to tour your home.
Staging can play an important role in how a home shows. There are some wonderful staging companies out there that offer different packages from a few items to a whole house.
If you opt to do the staging yourself, simply look at some homes for sale and see how they are staging their rooms. You can get some great ideas from what other people are doing and perhaps save yourself a bit of money in the process.
Questions? Column ideas? You can email me at newspaper@ocentral.com
Canadian Pluralism; Canadian Values and Politics
HAPPY HALLOW-WEENEY
Saturday, October 19, 2024
NO ONE CARES...
Airbnb in OntarioBy
Airbnb in Ontario
Theresa Grant
Real Estate Columnist
Airbnb was started by a couple of guys in San Fransisco in 2007, who were broke and looking for ways to pay their rent. Knowing that an upcoming convention had all the hotels in the city booked solid, they purchased air mattresses, started advertising, and Airbnb was born. All these years later, Airbnb has over 7 million active listings in 220 countries and is a publicly traded company worth over 98 billion dollars!
If you’ve ever thought about jumping on the Airbnb bandwagon, the first thing you should do is check with your local government authorities to make sure you don’t run afoul of any Bylaws or regulations. Short-term rentals are subject to very specific regulations in most areas.
Depending on your set up, there can be a substantial investment of time and money to get going as an Airbnb host. You may need to hire a cleaning person to maintain cleanliness and readiness between guest stays. A handyman may also be needed from time to time to take care of anything that pops up needing immediate attention.
Airbnb rentals generally yield higher returns compared to long-term rentals as they charge by the night, like a hotel does.
An Airbnb can be anything from a spare bedroom in the house you live in to a completely separate apartment or house that you have as an investment property.
Airbnb is a very popular platform in The GTA. Toronto has the most listings, but ranking very popular are places like Niagara Falls, Stratford, Prince Edward County, St. Catherines, Hamilton, and yes, Oshawa is in there with 112 active listing on the Airbnb platform.
You can also be a part of the Airbnb platform without owning property. Airbnb has a network of service providers for both guests and hosts.
On the guest side of things, providers offer services like home cooked meals, fitness classes, yoga, massage, tours, lessons and activities just to mention a few.
As far as hosts go there are a myriad of services from Co-hosting, ideal for a host who has more than one property or who is just very busy. Property management and property maintenance, cleaning and photography.
You can become an Airbnb consultant and work with hosts to provide or improve branding, develop marketing plans and implement new technologies.
The Airbnb model is pretty simple, they take a percentage of whatever you charge for rent. Of course, to have your space booked regularly you’ll have to stay competitive. There is a variety of insurance coverages for hosts and properties. Airbnb’s AirCover covers both hosts and guests for liability, property damage and cancellations.
Many people rent out seasonal properties on the Airbnb platform to help pay for the property or just for extra income. A lot of older family cottages that have seen better days are now being renovated to bring them up to date and add all the bells and whistles that will be sure to bring in big dollars.
More and More families are looking for beautiful waterfront cottages, with a hot tub, watercraft, toys, and trails.
Airbnb can be very lucrative. Whether it’s that spare bedroom across the hall or a big city condo. It might be worth investigating.
Questions? Column ideas? You can email me at newspaper@ocentral.com
Make to an Employer? What Difference Will You Make to an Employer?
What Difference Will You
Make to an Employer?
By Nick Kossovan
It’s common knowledge that companies don't hire the most qualified candidates. Employers hire the person they believe will deliver the best value in exchange for their payroll cost.
Since most job seekers know the above, I'm surprised that so few mention their Employee Value Proposition (EVP). Most job seekers list their education, skills, and experience without substantiating them and expect employers to determine whether they can benefit their company; hence, most resumes and LinkedIn profiles are just a list of opinions—borderline platitudes—that are meaningless and, therefore, have no value. Job seekers need to better explain, along with providing evidence, how they'll contribute to an employer's success.
Employers don't hire opinions (read: talk is cheap); they hire results.
You're not offering anything tangible when you claim:
· I'm a great communicator.
· I'm detail oriented.
· I'm a team player.
Tangible:
· "At Global Dynamics, I held quarterly town hall meetings with my 22 sales reps, highlighting our accomplishments, identifying opportunity areas, and recognizing outstanding performers."
· "For eight years, I managed Vandelay Industries IT department, overseeing a staff of 18 and a 12-million-dollar budget while coordinating cross-specialty projects. My strong attention to detail is why I never exceeded budget."
· "While working at Cyberdyne Systems, I was part of the customer service team, consisting of nine of us, striving to improve our response time. Through collaboration and sharing of best practices, we reduced our average response time from 48 to 12 business hours, resulting in a 35% improvement in customer feedback ratings."
These examples of tangible answers provide employers with what they most want to hear from candidates but rarely do; what value the candidate will bring to the company. Typically, job seekers present their skills, experience, and unsubstantiated opinions and expect recruiters and employers to figure out their value, which is a lazy practice.
Getting hired isn't based on "I have an MBA in Marketing and Sales," "I've been a web designer for over 15 years," "I'm young, beautiful and energetic," blah, blah, blah. Likewise, being rejected isn't based on "I'm overqualified," "I'm too old," "I don't have enough education," blah, blah, blah. Getting hired depends entirely on showing employers that you can add value and substance to their company; that you'll serve a purpose.
When you articulate a solid value offer, the "blah, blah, blah" doesn't matter. Job seekers focus too much on the "blah, blah, blah," and when not hired, they say, "It's not me, it's..." The biggest mistake I see job seekers make is focusing on the "blah, blah, blah"—their experience and education—believing this is what interests employers. Hiring managers are more interested in whether you can solve the problems the position exists to solve than in your education and experience.
Not impressive: Education
Impressive: A track record of achieving tangible results.
You aren't who you say you are; you are what you do.
If you want to be somebody who works hard, you have to actually work hard. If you want to be somebody who goes to the gym, you actually have to go to the gym. If you want to be a good friend, spouse, or colleague, you have to actually be a good friend, spouse, or colleague. Actions build reputations, not words.
The biggest challenge job seekers face today is differentiating themselves. To stand out and be memorable, don't be like most job seekers, someone who's all talk and no action. Any recruiter or hiring manager will tell you that the job market is heavily populated with job seekers who talk themselves up, talk a "good game" about everything they can "supposedly" do, drop names, etc., but have nothing to show for it.
More than ever, employers want to hear candidates offer a value proposition summarizing what value they bring. If you're looking for a low-hanging fruit method to differentiate yourself, do what job seekers hardly ever do and make a hard-to-ignore value proposition.
1. Increase sales: "Based on my experience managing Regina and Saskatoon for PharmaKorp, I'm confident that I can increase BioGen's sales by no less than 25% in Winnipeg and the surrounding area by the end of 2025."
2. Reduce cost: "During my 12 years as Taco Town's head of purchasing, I renegotiated contracts with key suppliers, resulting in 15% cost savings, saving the company over $450,000 annually. I know I can do the same for The Pasta House."
3. Increase customer satisfaction: "During my time at Globex Corporation, I established a systematic feedback mechanism that enabled customers to share their experiences. This led to targeted improvements, increasing our Net Promoter Score by 15 points. I can increase Dunder Mifflin's net promoter score."
4. Save time: "As Zap Delivery's dispatcher, I implemented advanced routing software that analyzed traffic patterns, reducing average delivery times by 20%. My implementation of this software at Froggy's Delivery can reduce your delivery times by at least 20%, if not more."
If you want to achieve job search success as soon as possible, structure your job search with a single thread that's evident and consistent throughout your résumé, LinkedIn profile, cover letters and especially during interviews; clearly convey what difference you'll make to the employer.
Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned veteran of the corporate landscape, offers advice on searching for a job. You can send him your questions at artoffindingwork@gmail.com
A JOURNEY BACK TO OCTOBER 1994 -A LOOK AT SOME OF THE HEADLINES FROM 30 YEARS AGO-
A JOURNEY BACK TO OCTOBER 1994
-A LOOK AT SOME OF THE HEADLINES FROM 30 YEARS AGO-
By Dean Hickey
This week’s column will take readers on a 30-year passage back through time as we examine some of the local stories that were making headlines in Oshawa’s daily newspaper. A protest at city hall by retail merchants, a report promoting the installation of sculptures on downtown buildings, and a few of the many trials and tribulations among Oshawa’s elected officials will round out our journey.
ARMSTRONG QUITS OVER HOSPITAL BATTLE… The Oshawa Times reported on October 4, 1994 that veteran regional councillor Mike Armstrong had decided to get out of politics. In an emotional speech, the Ward 7 Regional councillor said he accomplished many of his goals, but said he was fed up with an ongoing battle in his ward over Oshawa General Hospital’s $106-million expansion proposal. Armstrong was at odds with a neighbours’ group that wanted to stop a massive parking garage and cancer treatment centre going up in Alexandra Park. He was quoted at the time as saying, “It plays on your mind and plays on your body and this has been playing on my mind for 10 months now.” He went on to admit the issue had a “devastating” impact on him and his family and was a catalyst for his decision not to run in the upcoming municipal election. While not ruling out a return to elected office, he told The Times, “Never say never. My advice for everybody is to get away from politics for a while. It allows you to come back with some fresh ideas.”
The 44-year old lawyer was the only incumbent who chose not to seek re-election that year, and he has not been a member of Oshawa council since.
JUST ANOTHER PIPE DREAM…An editorial in the October 18, 1994 edition of The Oshawa Times took a look at a consultant’s proposal to spruce up the downtown core by way of façade improvements and video advertising. The editorial included the following comments: “A good idea and a bad idea. That is the way one could best describe the latest proposal to spruce up Oshawa’s downtown core. A team of consultants from the consulting firm of Marshall Macklin Monaghan presented a plan for the re-beautification of the city core at a Downtown Action Committee meeting last week. The plan called for spruced up buildings with sculptures on top of the buildings, video advertising screens, sculptured gates and a uniform colour throughout the area. The sculptured gates would be erected on King, Simcoe, Bond and Centre Streets to usher shoppers into the downtown core. The sculptures would serve as icons giving Oshawa a unique identity. But the first warning bell that the project was a pipe dream came when the planners were unable to attach a price tag to the proposal. It was estimated to upgrade each building would cost $12,000 to $23,000. Everyone would agree a downtown re-beautification is needed, but this plan will not get off the ground. Under the proposed plan, the funding for this project would come from the property owners, with half of it eligible for financing through a long-term low interest loan. The latest idea of sprucing up the downtown core is not a new idea and is only one of many proposals which have been batted around for years. But asking the merchants to pick up the tab on a frivolous project would only push them further into red ink."
COUNCIL GIVES IN TO MERCHANTS’ DEMANDS FOR DOWNTOWN ACTION…
The Oshawa Times reported on October 25, 1994 that over 100 angry protesters marched on city hall to demand politicians fix up Oshawa’s ailing downtown core. In an unusual move, council voted to make redevelopment and revitalizing the downtown the number one priority in the upcoming council term from 1995 to 1997. Business owners were generally pleased. “Hopefully this is start for the downtown” said Angelo Sacco, a longtime area businessman and owner of Art Technique and Hairstyling. The protest was organized by a group of downtown business and property owners who said they wanted city hall to cut their taxes, reduce parking costs, eliminate on-way streets, and control crime.
As it happens, I was a participant in the march to city hall and I rose to speak in the chamber. I will never forget councillor Irv Harrell drawing jeers from the crowd when he suggested the products shoppers want are not being provided. He told those gathered that they should provide better products to ensure the demand would follow.
ONGOING LEGAL BATTLE CONTINUES BETWEEN MAYOR AND COUNCILLOR…
The Oshawa Times reported on October 28, 1994 that an on-going legal battle between Mayor Nancy Diamond and councillor Brian Nicholson was far from over. Earlier that year, Diamond had filed a lawsuit against Nicholson over a letter-to-the editor the Ward 1 councillor wrote to the Oshawa Times. The two were bitter political rivals. The letter implied the Mayor had ulterior motives in her involvement in the filling of a vacant Public Utilities Commission seat.
The claim that was filed in a Whitby court asked Nicholson for $200,000 plus costs, however Mayor Diamond suggested the whole thing could be settled for $2.00 and an apology. Councillor Nicholson, in his refusal to apologize, said, “We told her we would make a clarification that there were no criminal wrongdoings, but I want to make it clear that I have never agreed to apologize.”
The Mayor would eventually abandon her lawsuit against councillor Nicholson, and the two would remain adversaries over the many years that followed. Nancy Diamond passed away in February 2017.
An interesting look back, and perhaps the most poignant aspect of these stories is the slow deterioration of the city’s downtown, as retailers, professionals, and financial institutions would continue to abandon the area over the decades to come. Investments by Ontario Tech University have seen the preservation of the Regent Theatre and the construction and restoration of certain properties within the city’s core, however the introduction of a social service agency at the Simcoe St United Church would ultimately put the nail in the coffin as downtown streets would become filled with drug users and people sleeping on sidewalks and in alleyways. It is a problem that shows no signs of abating anytime soon. 
Canada’s Democracy at Risk -The Fight to Protect Free Speech from Tyranny
Canada’s Democracy at
Risk -The Fight to Protect Free Speech from Tyranny
By Lisa Robinson
Canadians are standing at a crossroads, a moment in history where the very essence of freedom is at stake. The right to speak freely, to express our beliefs, and to stand for what we know is right—these are the rights that define us as individuals and as a nation. Yet, today, those rights are being systematically attacked. What we are witnessing is not just a political skirmish. It is the slow dismantling of democracy, brick by brick.
Make no mistake—what is happening to me is only a symptom of a much deeper issue. As an Elected Councillor, I have a duty to speak for the people I represent. But instead of being allowed to do my job, I’ve been sanctioned, had my pay withheld, and been silenced—all for daring to speak truth to power. And I am not alone. Across cities, municipalities, and even school boards, those who refuse to fall in line with the prevailing narrative are being punished. The Integrity Commissioner, once a tool of accountability, has been twisted into a weapon of control. The aim is clear: to suppress dissent and silence anyone who challenges the status quo.
But this is about far more than just me. This is about all of us, about every single person who believes that democracy is more than just a word on paper. It’s about the fundamental belief that we, the people, have the right to question, to criticize, and to express our views without fear of retribution. What we are seeing now is the creeping hand of authoritarianism, cloaked in the language of ‘fairness’ and ‘order,’ but make no mistake—it is an assault on freedom itself.
Today, it’s happening in Pickering, but tomorrow it will be happening in your town, in your school, in your workplace. This isn’t a local issue - it’s a national crisis. And if we don’t stop it now, this wave of censorship and control will only grow stronger. It’s already happening in school boards, where parents and students are being silenced. It’s happening in city councils across the country, where elected officials are muzzled for daring to speak their minds. It’s happening in Canada, and it’s happening all over the world.
This is not just my fight—this is our fight. Because when one of us is silenced, all of us are silenced. When one voice is muted, it sends a chilling message to every other citizen: fall in line or face the consequences. That is not democracy. That is tyranny. And it is up to us, to every one of you listening, to say “enough.”
But we can’t do it alone. To stop this erosion of our freedoms, we need your help. The lawyers fighting this battle aren’t just fighting for me—they are fighting for every Canadian who believes in freedom of expression. They are fighting for you. But they need support to keep this battle going. This isn’t just about saving one person’s job or reputation. This is about saving our democracy.
We are at a turning point. If we do not push back, if we allow these authoritarian measures to take root, then the Canada we know and love will cease to exist. We will become a country where only those who toe the line are allowed to speak, where dissent is silenced, and where the people live in fear of expressing their true beliefs. Is that the future we want?
I don’t believe it is. I believe we are stronger than that, that we believe in the power of free speech, of open debate, and of democracy. But we must act now, before it’s too late. This is our moment. Will you stand with us? Will you fight for the rights that so many before us fought to protect? Will you ensure that future generations inherit a country where freedom is not just a dream, but a reality?
I ask you today—not just for me, but for all of us—support this fight. Help us defend democracy before it’s too late. Your voice, and your support can make the difference. Together, we can stop this wave of censorship and restore the rights that belong to every Canadian.
This is the battle of our time. Let’s make sure we win it—together.
AJAX YOUR PREJUDICE IS SHOWING...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)