Canada Day 2022

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU E. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East This year is the 155th anniversary of a country still called Canada. Mired by the dark shadows of history and the aftershocks of Covid-19 pandemic we need to remember that we are still Canadians and be proud of it. As we reflect on past events from the beginning of the year, we hope that this year Canada Day will finally bring the nation a glimmer of hope and a better half for the remainder of 2022. Let's take a moment to consider the incredible contributions made by Canadians throughout our history. Their efforts have helped to make the country what it is today; a country of vibrant cities and strong rural communities. Canada is a place where cultural freedom still flourishes, and Canadians from all backgrounds are still free to express themselves and help our country prosper despite recent tendencies to deny that. Successive waves of immigrants from France, Ireland, Germany, the United Kingdom and other countries together with Indigenous people have helped to forge our nation's unique character. Through their efforts, our communities have become a distinct part of the Canadian identity which we need to preserve rather than deny. We should honour this legacy while we also recognize that we can do better in the future. Let's be proud of our combined anglophone and francophone heritage and seek a strong and constructive cooperation with our Indigenous people for a better Canada. Canada was not born of bloody conflict. It emerged from a lengthy process of brainstorming about practical matters, of negotiations, proposals, and legislative ratifications. On July 1, 1867, the Confederation of four Canadian provinces created our country and with the inclusion of Lower Canada - now Quebec - it ensured from the outset that Canada would be a blend of two nations, two cultures and two languages. The acceptance of both civil and common law systems is a factor that still makes Canada a helpful player on the international scene. And from the outset, religious tolerance was Canada's only option. The enactment of the British North America Act, 1867 (today called the Constitution Act, 1867), which confederated Canada, was celebrated on July 1, 1867, with the ringing of the bells at the Cathedral Church of St. James in Toronto and "bonfires, fireworks and illuminations, excursions, military displays and musical and other entertainments", as described in contemporary accounts. On June 20 of the following year, Governor General the Viscount Monck issued a royal proclamation asking for Canadians to celebrate the anniversary of Confederation. However, the holiday was not established statutorily until May 15, 1879, when it was designated as Dominion Day, alluding to the reference in the British North America Act to the country as a dominion. The holiday was initially not dominant in the national calendar; any celebrations were mounted by local communities and the Governor General hosted a party at Rideau Hall. No larger celebrations were held until 1917 and then none again for a further decade-the gold and diamond anniversaries of Confederation, respectively. Canada's centennial in 1967 is often seen as an important milestone in the history of Canadian nationalism and in Canada's maturing as a distinct, independent country, after which Dominion Day became more popular with average Canadians. Some Canadians were, by the early 1980s, informally referring to the holiday as Canada Day, a practice that caused some controversy. However, with the granting of Royal Assent, the holiday's name was officially changed to Canada Day on October 27, 1982. Canada Day coincides with Memorial Day in Newfoundland and Labrador, with memorials typically held in the morning of July 1. As the anniversary of Confederation, Dominion Day, and later Canada Day, was the date set to commemorate a number of important events. It was the first national radio network hookup by the Canadian National Railway (1927). It was the inauguration of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's cross-country television broadcast, with Governor General Vincent Massey's Dominion Day speech from Parliament Hill (1958) and the flooding of the Saint Lawrence Seaway (1958); It was the first colour television transmission in Canada (1966); the inauguration of the Order of Canada (1967); and the establishment of "O Canada" as the country's national anthem (1980). Other events fell on the same day coincidentally, such as the first day of the Battle of the Somme in 1916, shortly after which Newfoundland recognized July 1 as Memorial Day to commemorate the Newfoundland Regiment's heavy losses during the battle. .Our nation is facing great challenges today, as never before. These include the economic hardship and skyrocketing inflation, the issues related to a new conflagration in Europe, high unemployment and social unrest. Let us again show that we support each other. This community spirit is one of the most admirable characteristics of being Canadian. On July the 1st let's celebrate our country's achievements and use them, not our failings, as a foundation to build a better and a brighter future together. Let's celebrate our unity and our treasured country. Happy enlightened Canada Day!

Getting the Salary You Want Is Your Responsibility

By Nick Kossovan The number of people who accept a job and then complain about the pay afterwards amazes me. Didn't they know the salary before accepting the job? While money isn't everything, feeling you're getting paid fairly for your work is vital to your self-esteem and overall well-being. Getting the salary you want is your responsibility. Speaking of getting the salary you want, you probably hear all the "entitlement talk" about getting paid what you're worth, which is highly subjective. The "get paid what you're worth" movement causes many people to overestimate their worth to employers. Finding a job that offers the compensation, benefits and perks you desire starts with showing your value to employers. The passive (READ: lazy) attitude of, "I need more money, so I should be paid more," is common. The onus is on the job seeker to show their value. Before embarking on your job search journey: - Critically assess your skills and experience. (create a list) - Brainstorm how you'll show employers your track record of adding value to employers. - Research salaries in your job market. - Establish a realistic target starting salary, along with benefits you want. - Envision how you'll present yourself (e.g., resume, LinkedIn profile, interviews), so you're answering the question: Why are your skills and experience worth paying for? Career success begins with self-awareness. Being self-aware during your job search is crucial to accepting your weaknesses and evangelizing your strengths. Hence, you'll gravitate toward jobs that capitalize on your strengths employers are willing to pay for. (Employers don't pay for weaknesses.) As well, firmly knowing your strengths will empower you to convincingly explain (READ: sell) why your skills are worth paying for. On the other hand, knowing your weaknesses will help you determine what weaknesses hinder your career so you can work on overcoming them. Keep a work journal. 20 years ago, I started keeping a work diary, which has proved invaluable. I highly recommend you do the same. When you're preparing for an interview or want to ask for a raise, you'll be thankful you're keeping a work diary. Before leaving for the day, note your day's accomplishments, results you achieved, conversations you had, challenges you overcame, milestones you reached, new skills you acquired, fires you put out, etc. Your work diary will be invaluable when preparing for interviews, especially when it comes to providing examples of your achievements and creating STAR stories. Additionally, your journal will be your best friend when you ask for a raise since you'll have many reasons why you deserve one. Whether you're negotiating a starting salary or asking for a raise, you need to build a case. Your work diary will provide the evidence (e.g., process improvements, revenue generated, monetary or time savings) you need and may have forgotten. TIP: When talking about your accomplishments and results, use numbers to convey your value. NO (responsibility statement): "I inputted customer orders." YES (accomplishment statement): "I inputted no fewer than 60 customer orders per day, with an accuracy rate of 99.5%." The achievement statements demonstrate how candidates deliver value to their employers, value that's worth paying for. Establish firm boundaries. When you set non-negotiable boundaries regarding compensation, benefits, vacation and sick days, and working hours, you're in control of your job search and career. I've lost count of how many interviews I've ended because a box on my non-negotiable list-I have 20 boxes-wasn't being checked off. I don't want to be one of those employees I mentioned earlier who accept a job and then complain that they're underpaid. Getting the salary you deserve requires you showing your interviewer how your knowledge, skills, experience and abilities will benefit the company and-this is critical-not settling for anything less than the salary you want. It seems logical that if you only take jobs where you'll be paid what you feel you're worth, you'll always be paid what you feel you're worth. Never hesitate to say no to a job opportunity. If an employer or job doesn't feel right or ticks off all our "wants," walk away! When you walk away, you free yourself to continue looking for the job and employer that's right for you. Employers understand money. Next time you interview, demonstrate how you made money for your previous employers or saved them money. This is how you create value for your services. (As an employee, you're providing a service to your employer.) The more value your services provide, the more money you can ask for your services. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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

LIE AFTER LIE YOU CAN’T BLAME THE MAN

By Joe Ingino Editor/Publisher ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States “I live a dream in a nightmare world” Always Remember That The cosmic blueprint of your life was written in code across the sky at the moment you were born. Decode Your Life By Living It Without Regret. Lie after lie. You can’t blame the man. Blame those that believe his lies. This seems to stand true with the many statement and attributes our current Mayor Dan Carter keeps putting out in hope for re-election. As recent interview he was quoted, “ I'm really proud that we went from the plant being closed, to us seeing over $1.5 billion invested and three shifts at 2,600 people back to work. That was a huge accomplishment.” he attempted to take credit for GM tossing a token back to Oshawa. What he fails to tell you that these 2,600. jobs are primarily at a minimum wage. Carter continues: ‘One of the biggest part of the story out of this is, over 50 per cent of the assembly line workers are females. And that is a huge cultural change. It's a huge statement in regard to the diversity.” Carter is so delusional that he attempts to hide behind diversity when in reality he is exposing GM for treating women as second class citizens and forcing them to work for minimum wage. This is diversity? GM knows that if they stop producing cars in Oshawa. All the land they sit on defaults back to Oshawa. Many people do not know that. But those lands GM sits on were awarded by Col Sam McLaughlin to GM for a dollar as long as GM produced cars. If GM ever stopped. Those lands were to be defaulted to the City. GM has played this game of a big announcement only to turn face a few months later with a song and dance for not living through the deal. Carter had nothing to do with this as they are playing him a fool. Much like the smoke and mirror facade he has presented for the past three years. Like they say proof is in the pudding. Our property taxes have gone up 12% over three years and our quality of life has drop to an all time low. You can’t claim gains when the losses are obvious. You can’t hide behind statistics when the reality of the poverty in Oshawa hits you in the face every time you drive downtown. Look around our neighborhoods. The quality of life has deteriorated. Folks are neglecting their property out of sheer lack of finance. We need to put money back in our citizens pockets by freezing all tax increases for the next four years. It many not be a lot. But something is better than nothing and during these times of hardship a little means a lot. Together we an work towards bringing Oshawa to the world stage. This will be a win, win for all of us. Good jobs, good developments and prosperity. Wake up Oshawa. Now is the time to make the right change. Let’s stop expecting results when our city is being operated like an institution and not a corporation. We have a Mayor that has shown to lack the understanding the intellect and experience to bring success to our city. Like the say the proof is in the pudding not on some statistics that do not reflect reality.

Canada's summer

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU E. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East As we approach the most coveted Canadian summer, a time for us to relax and recharge our batteries, the liberal government is easing their control on us, by removing, albeit reluctantly, some of the Covid-19 generated restrictions. As of June 20th Canada has dropped the vaccine mandate for domestic and outbound international travel so that all Canadians are now able to enjoy their constitutional right to travel. However, all re-entry requirements will remain in effect, and all passengers will continue to have to wear face masks. The recent government change of heart will allow unvaccinated Canadians to board planes and trains heading to either domestic or international locations, but they will still be required to follow the current testing and quarantine requirements upon re-entry from international destinations. Foreign nationals coming to Canada will still be required to be vaccinated in order to enter, though they would be able to depart the country if unvaccinated. Not allowing unvaccinated foreign nationals to leave Canada was a breach of international law anyway, tantamount to holding foreign national hostages in Canada. Implementing these kinds of faux pas legislation reveals the status of competency of our current government, particularly highlighting the expertise at global affairs. As a control measure over the whereabouts of Canadian citizens, the requirement to use the ArriveCAN app to show proof of vaccination upon arrival to avoid a federal quarantine, will continue. On taking the floor for the latest liberal government stand on vaccine mandates, Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc, Transport Minister Omar Alghabra, Treasury Board President Mona Fortier, and Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos made the announcement last week, alongside major updates to Canada's vaccine mandates for transportation workers, and federal employees. In revealing the updated policies, the government says the mandates have been effective through the thick of the pandemic, but were never meant to be permanent. Though, should case counts climb again, federal officials say they won't hesitate to reinstate any suspended COVID-19 travel restrictions. So beware of the monkey virus!!!!! "The decision today is not based on something that we woke up yesterday or this morning, and decided to do. We've done our homework… What got us [to] today was a period of discussions, of consultations, of looking at the big picture, of preparing ourselves for a potential wave in the fall, but [also] the current situation today. It's clear that the COVID situation is not the same now as it was last fall when we implemented the vaccine mandate." said Minister of Transportation Alghabra. So maybe he finally needs to wake up to the reality of the word around us. In recent months, pressure has been mounting for the government to lift the travel vaccination requirements from opposition politicians and the travel industry, citing the significant strains and delays at Canadian airports, as well as the easing provincial public health rules. The Liberals have defended the mandates, repeatedly referring to the need to follow the science and advice of public health officials. But the science seems to be more and more fictitious; more akin to political science than natural science. The liberal ministers said that the federal government's "top priority" remains keeping Canadians safe, and that this decision is not related to easing the strain at Canadian airports, which they attribute to "staffing shortages." Great political excuse! Rather, the ministers cited the virus' evolution, the current epidemiological and modelling projections, and the high vaccination rate in Canada as key factors in lifting the mandates now. All the excuses sound good, and more importantly, they're all politically correct. Anyway, this small step towards regaining our freedom, especially the freedom of movement, is positive. However, the policy change will likely prompt even more of an influx of travellers to descend on Canadian airports. Reacting to the news, the National Airlines Council of Canada-which represents Canada's largest carriers, including Air Canada and WestJet-said it views the move as a "major milestone for the aviation sector, the tourism industry, and for Canadian travellers," but said it is not enough to resolve the problems at airports. The Council is calling for immediate changes to ArriveCAN to eliminate duplicative health checks, end the mandate for inbound international travellers, and a commitment to make permanent the recent suspensions of mandates and random testing. "The government's decision to suspend the national vaccine mandate for air travel and transportation employees is a positive step, one that will simplify many aspects of travel and bring Canada closer to the emerging standard currently in place around the world. Airlines will work diligently to implement these changes," said the Council's interim president and CEO Suzanne Acton-Gervais in a statement. In conclusion, enjoy the upcoming summer. Big Brother seems to be relaxing too, and maybe even travelling.

HA WE GOT YOU BELL ENOUGH IS ENOUGH STOP THE RIP OFF

By Rosaldo Russo Allow me to begin this column by thanking the Oshawa/Central newspaper for allowing me the opportunity and access to the press. Not to many if any allow an average person like me to tell the world what I see and think. In my opinion. The Editor/Publisher is a real upstanding type of guy. He shoots from the hip and hold traditional core values. My name is Rosaldo Russo. I came to this great country to make a better life for myself and my family. I thank Canada for everything it has allowed me to do and earn. I worked construction all my life. I know the value of hard work and honesty. I remember as a boy my father always telling me to work hard and buy land. So I did. I remember days when I did not have enough to eat. I go to work... but I did not wait for hand outs. I rounded up my pride my skill and my determination to succeed and went to work. In those days the only benefits we received was the fact we were employed. Before retiring I was the owner and operator of local material supply company that allowed me to retired without worry. Now that I have time to enjoy life. I look around me and have some concern for future generations. I see that the world is finished. We the people have won . For those that read my last week column. I called out BELL CANADA on their business practices. This week this news items came out on Wednesday June 15, 2022. CRTC imposes $7.5 million in penalties on Bell Canada for violations of Canada's Telecommunications Act OTTAWA, ON and GATINEAU, QC, June 15, 2022 /CNW/ - Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) Today, the CRTC announced that it has imposed a total of $7.5 million in penalties on Bell Canada for three violations of the Telecommunications Act. The CRTC found that Bell Canada denied permit applications for access to its telephone poles from Videotron, its main competitor in Quebec. As a result, Videotron was not able to access Bell Canada's poles, which delayed its network deployment and created a competitive advantage for Bell Canada. The CRTC's decision issued today sets the penalties for these three violations of the Telecommunications Act at $2.5 million each. Ha, a that’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind as it was noted when we first moon landing. Mind you $7.5 million to BELL is like issuing a parking ticket. A minor nuisance to a company that makes billions a day. What is happening to corporations. Starting to look like a monopoly game. Take a hit here and there as long as the goose that lays the golden eggs keeps producing. Rogers, Enbridge, Hydro One are no better. I feel for our youth in Canada. They are slowly being turned into modern day slaves. From the so called “convenience’ charges and services to the ridiculous automated answering machines that only facilitate the corporation masqueraded as in the best interest of the consumer. Come on people. When I call I want a real person to answer. One that can be clearly understood and in English please. To think now the tech world is talking about introducing Artificial Intelligence. Boy are we going to be screwed.... What do you think am I crazy? I ENDORSE JOE INGINO FOR MAYOR OF OSHAWA IN 2022 VOTE INGINO

Why Is It Difficult to Get Hired During the Supposed 'Great Resignation'?

By Nick Kossovan The media is selling the narrative that a "Great Resignation" is taking place. However, many job seekers are having difficulty getting hired. Here are a few reasons why. COVID caused significant economic damage. Yes, pandemic restrictions are being lifted, and, for better or worse, we're moving back to our 1st world lifestyle. However, the pandemic isn't officially over, and nobody knows when it will be. Small businesses, those that survived, have been severely damaged by COVID, leaving many in a precarious position. According to the latest Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) Small Business Recovery Dashboard, only 40% of businesses have returned to normal sales. Many employers are struggling and therefore can't afford to backfill vacancies. Instead, they're increasing the workload of their existing employees and/or cutting back business hours. Layoffs are happening. The number of layoffs since the start of the year has been alarming. Some of the layoffs that made headlines: - Netflix (150 employees) - Canopy Growth (250 employees) - Noom (495 employees) - Zillow (2,300 employees) - Carvana (2,500 employees) - Peloton (over 2,800 employees) - Better.com ( approx. 4,000 employees) The hot job market is cooling down. This post-pandemic reset, caused by employers having overhired, a bear market, business growth slowing (With inflation hovering around 8%, consumers are spending less.), and higher labour costs, feels like a reckoning. The "Great Resignation" is morphing into the "Great Termination." There's talk of a looming recession. "We will get a major recession." - Deutsche Bank Economists, in a report to clients on April 26 Employers, who, for the most part, are risk-averse, become nervous just hearing of a possible recession. Fear causes employers to slow, if not freeze, their hiring. There is intense competition for desirable jobs. It's raining resumes, especially for desirable jobs at desirable employers. The jobs people quit, they quit for a reason-poor working conditions, low pay, and bad management. These are the jobs that are going unfilled. My neighbourhood bar & grill has yet to open despite the lifting of pandemic restrictions months ago because they can't find staff. Finding a job isn't difficult if you view work as a means to an end-you're just looking for a paycheque. However, most job seekers are searching for jobs that offer fair compensation (extremely subjective), comprehensive benefits, the flexibility to work where and when they want to, and a manager who'll take an interest in cultivating, developing, and growing their skillset. Finding a job that ticks off all your "wants" and "nice to haves" is difficult even in the best of times. If you're having trouble finding a job, re-evaluate which of your criteria are non-negotiable and which you can be flexible on. You may have to admit that you lack the required skills, experience, or connections (Knowing the right people opens doors.) to land your dream job at your employer of choice and need to work on acquiring them. Employers aren't in a rush to fill vacancies.Despite media reports of a labour shortage, employers are being selective when hiring, perhaps even more so in the current uncertain economic climate. As I've mentioned in previous columns: Employers own their hiring processes. (and the results of) Just because how an employer hires doesn't serve the job seeker's self-interest doesn't mean it doesn't serve the employer's. Onboarding a new employee is a lengthy, costly process, fraught with risks, especially with the current unstable economy. A bad hire can quickly become a liability. Businesses are operating with fewer employees. You've seen this: A colleague leaves and the work continues to get done! Want to gauge your value to your employer? Ask yourself this uncomfortable question: What would happen to my employer if I left tomorrow? I've yet to meet an employee who can answer: My employer will go out of business. Employers have many options for running their business with less employees: AI, robotics, self-checkout, automation, using contractors/freelancers, and outsourcing, to name a few. Furthermore, companies are restructuring responsibilities and redistributing work instead of backfilling. Bottom line: There aren't many "great jobs" out there, and the number is declining; therefore, it's a tough job market for "great jobs." Don't let all the Great Resignation talk lull you into believing employers, especially those everyone wants to work for, are begging for employees. Your job search still requires your A-game, which means: - Have clearly defined career objectives. - Make networking a habit. - Optimize your LinkedIn profile. - Communicate your achievements over your responsibilities. (Use numbers to show how you provided value to your employers.) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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

‘The Hearing’ nothing short of Democratic hypocrisy

By Joe Ingino Editor/Publisher ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States “I live a dream in a nightmare world” hypocrisy by definition: 1. the practice of claiming to have higher standards or more noble beliefs than is the case. It is important to start with a clear dictionary definition as not to seem bias in the following opinion. By now most of us have had a peek at the so called ‘January 6th Hearing’. A process to determine facts that by their own claims is supposed to be bipartisan. It is a clan of hypocrites on an attack. By definition ‘BIPARTISAN’: 1. involving the agreement or cooperation of two political parties that usually oppose each other's policies. Now for anyone that has watched the first and second round of this so called ‘Hearing’ can attest to the fact that there is nothing bipartisan about it. It appears as a one side bashing. From the opening words. It was an all out assault on former president Donald Trump. A president that has taken more abuse in the media than any other president in the history of the United States. Yet, this horrible individual, womanizer, tax evader and now the hearing attempting to make him out a terrorist managed to bring our gas prices to a historical low. Managed to put an end to terrorism in the middle East. Managed to create jobs for Americans and finally put the Arab oil producing nations in their place.... by deflating their price for crude. As I listen to the hearing. I can’t help to hear the envy, the anger, the hidden agenda by those in the committee. What was supposed to be bipartisan fair and fact finding. Has become nothing but a school yard name calling, finger pointing, feet stomping exercise. We are showing the world that we can’t lead. That our political integrity has been compromised by our own ignorance. America like most other empires in history is about to fall. We in history classes always wondered what ever happened to the AZTEC for example. All of a sudden a once mighty civilization gone. Could it be that they also reached a point in their greatness and became so greedy that stupidity, arrogance caused their extinction? We never listen to history. If anything we attempt to erase it and reconcile something that can’t as content and context at that time can never be brought back or changed. This hearing is an insult to democracy and the people’s right to demonstrate as prescribed in the constitution. Stop looking for blame and look for reason, logic.

THE FLEA MARKET GREAT SUCCESS

By Joe Ingino Editor/Publisher ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States “I live a dream in a nightmare world” Always Remember That The cosmic blueprint of your life was written in code across the sky at the moment you were born. Decode Your Life By Living It Without Regret. I like to begin this column by thanking all the citizens that took time to come down to the Oshawa Flea Market this weekend to meet with me. I also like to thank the many that stopped by and asked questions. Raised concerns and expressed their disapointments over our current municipal government. Many expressed what a good idea it was for someone like myself to take the time to actually sit and listen to their concerns. Many pledged to support my campaign by either volunteering or financially. We in Oshawa have the nicest people. Many would stand and look at me from afar first.... Then they would pick the right moment to approach me and tell me... that they normally do not like to complain or talk about people. They have had enough. Many seniors expressed concern over the 11% tax increase over four years. Not to mention the skyrocketing sub tax we pay in Durham to the region in the form of a water bill and sewer. Others felt the need to express their concerns over public safety. Seniors are not feeling safe walking our streets. Specially our downtown core. One couple thanked me for taking my time and coming out to the flea market to meet citizens. They express their concern over how they have called city hall. Many times their council member and they never received a call back. This in my book is so wrong. I if with your help blessed to be elected. I will take one day a month. This day will be an open door to city hall and council. The purpose will be to hear anyone and everyone that has a concern or just something to say. I as lead of council will want to hear ideas and opinion on how to make our city a better place to live. I want people to feel as they belong and as they have a voice in Oshawa’s future. The Oshawa Flea Market is a great place for people to come together and experience the open market concept. A place where you can still negotiate a price. Where you can pick up one of a kind type of item. A true community place creating a great place for commerce to thrive. I plan on being at the flea market until election day. I plan on meeting as many people as I can and express the word that ‘HOPE FOR OSHAWA IS COMING”. That a vote for INGINO will not be a wasted vote but one of unity of all people for the betterment of all our lives. A vote to improve the quality of life so that we may thrive. A vote for prosperity and development that will put Oshawa on the global stage. A vote that you can benefit from directly by having access to make a real impact on the future of our home city of Oshawa. Look forward to meeting with you at the flea market. Or if you like just come down to our offices and bring your opinions, ideas and thought. I CARE. I WILL LISTEN.

D-Day anniversary 2022

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU E. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East As in Canada we are at war with high inflation, uncertain economic times and international tension due to the continuing war in Ukraine, we need to remember as never before and reflect on the sacrifices that our forefathers have made for us. They should not have fought in vain to secure our freedom, to keep democracy alive in our country, to maintain the rule of law and the comfortable standard of living that we enjoy today. It is time to cherish their memory. To ensure that their efforts to win over the evils of fascism were not in vain and that, particularly during this new dark period that threatens our very existence, we keep up our courage and stand up against our adversaries as our forefathers have done. We are currently facing a crucial time in our history in fighting the evil of an unknown upcoming new world order and related societal malaises. In combination, the consequences of the past pandemic and social dysfunction are similar to fighting a new kind of world war with worldwide consequences and yet unforeseen effects on Canadians. On the 6th of June we marked the seventy-eight anniversary of D-Day, the beginning of the Battle of Normandy, along a 100 km stretch of French coastline across the English Channel from Great Britain. This was the largest seaborne invasion in history and a crucial day in winning the war against evil; Nazi Germany. The assault on the beaches of Normandy by British, American, and Canadian troops on the 6th of June 1944, who would then fight their way across Europe, has gone down in history as a memorable event. The codenames of where the troops landed - Omaha and Utah for the Americans, Gold and Sword for the British, and Juno for the Canadians - remain familiar today. The Normandy landings, Operation Overlord, marked the beginning of the end of six long years of conflict between Adolf Hitler's Nazi Germany and Allied forces. The development of the role for Canada in the D-Day invasion has a history going back a few years. Following the Dunkirk evacuation Canadians began to come over to Great Britain. They were well-prepared and took on the role of defending the British Isles. They built up around the south coast of England and operated in a defensive and anti-invasion role from May 1940 to July 1943. At that time the 1st Canadian Division was detached and sent to Italy, but the bulk of Canadian forces remained in Britain for all those years. Canadian sailors, soldiers and airmen played a critical role in the Allied invasion of Normandy, beginning the bloody campaign to liberate Western Europe from Nazi occupation. Nearly 150,000 Allied troops landed or parachuted into the invasion area on D-Day, including 14,000 Canadians at Juno Beach. The Royal Canadian Navy contributed 110 ships and 10,000 sailors and the RCAF contributed 15 fighter and fighter-bomber squadrons to the assault. Total Allied casualties on D-Day reached more than 10,000. By the end of the Battle of Normandy, the Allies had suffered 209,000 casualties, including more than 18,700 Canadians. Over 5,000 Canadian soldiers died. From the D-Day landings on the 6th of June 1944 through to the encirclement of the German army at Falaise on the 21st of August this was one of the pivotal events of the Second World War and the scene of some of Canada's greatest feats of arms. Juno Beach was the Allied code name for a 10 km stretch of French coast. It fell to more than 14,000 volunteer soldiers from across Canada, under Major-General Rod Keller, commander of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division, to storm the Juno Beach coast line. They seized the beach and its seaside villages while under intense fire from German defenders - an extraordinary example of military skill, reinforced by countless acts of personal courage. The 3rd Infantry Division took heavy casualties in its first wave of attack but took control of the beach by the end of the day. There were 1,074 Canadian casualties, including 359 killed. All things considered, the Canadian troops did very well on D-Day. The Canadians and the British in the Gold and Juno sector made it farther inland than any of the other invasion forces. They had managed to link up their forward units some distance inland, which was a measure of success. At the end of the day, the Queen's Own Rifles had actually captured its objective, which was short of the overall divisional objective but goes to show that some of the Canadian units were quite successful in the first hours. Their sacrifices will be not forgotten even though their generation is starting to fade into the fog of history. For the time being D-Day still seems to be in the Canadian public's consciousness. Their memory must be preserved for the millennials and generations to come in order to eliminate the causes of further conflagrations. D-Day embodied the courage and determination to prevail in that war. It was fought over issues that are still alive today - such as ideology, globalism, nationalism and injustice. It was an exceptionally difficult and hazardous military operation. It was an operation in which Canadians took a major central role in the war to preserve freedom and democracy. For these reasons and more, it's important to keep the memory of D-Day alive. The dead, along with scores of other Canadians killed in the fighting during the weeks that followed, are buried in the serene and beautiful Canadian War Cemetery at Bény-sur-Mer, just behind Juno Beach. This, and numerous other memorials throughout Courseulles, Bernières and St. Aubin-sur-Mer, commemorate Canada's sacrifice on D-Day. A private museum, the Juno Beach Centre, overlooking the beach at Courseulles, also tells the story of Canada's role in the invasion of Normandy. Every year on the 6th of June, the people of the villages along Juno Beach pay tribute to the men and women who fought and died there. They parade through streets festooned with maple leaf flags and hold services and vigils along parts of the seawall, in memory of their Canadian liberators. Long live their memory! Long live the courage those men and women demonstrated. May our current generations and governments show just as much courage in our current hour of need. We can't afford to wait for someone else to fight for our rights and freedom. We must all take a stand against the tyranny of incompetent leadership, political correctness at the expense of merit, and the stripping away of our individual freedoms in the name of political expediency. Wake up Canada! Have we forgotten; what we are waiting for?

DEMOCRACY SHOULD BE DEMORECRY

By Rosaldo Russo Allow me to begin this column by thanking the Oshawa/Central newspaper for allowing me the opportunity and access to the press. Not to many if any allow an average person like me to tell the world what I see and think. In my opinion. The Editor/Publisher is a real upstanding type of guy. He shoots from the hip and hold traditional core values. My name is Rosaldo Russo. I came to this great country to make a better life for myself and my family. I thank Canada for everything it has allowed me to do and earn. I worked construction all my life. I know the value of hard work and honesty. I remember as a boy my father always telling me to work hard and buy land. So I did. I remember days when I did not have enough to eat. I go to work... but I did not wait for hand outs. I rounded up my pride my skill and my determination to succeed and went to work. In those days the only benefits we received was the fact we were employed. Before retiring I was the owner and operator of local material supply company that allowed me to retired without worry. Now that I have time to enjoy life. I look around me and have some concern for future generations. I see that the world is finished. Ha, the lowest voter turn out. Wonder why? Democracy as it was originally intended is broken and there is no hope to fix. No matter who we vote. We the people end up paying for it. This explain the poor vote turn out. It is not about majority or minority voters. It is about who cares and within that group. A perceived majority. On the one hand it is our fault for not voting. On the other. Why bother when no matter the side they are all about the same. Making a career for themselves. Looking out for themselves. I am disgusted on how our standard of living is being compromised. How are laws are being manipulated and how the quality of life keeps going down. No real jobs, house prices going through the roof. Our economy on a downward spin. Look at the gas prices.... Come on people. Where are we going with this. It is like we are in an airplane. The airplane is going straight down... and the politicians seem to be turning their seats up to not see what is coming and claiming how good it looks up. No matter who wins... the people pay. We change governments from Liberal to Conservative. DEMORECRY... as who ever takes power will blame the previous administration for the poor condition it was left in and tax us even more. Much like this carbon tax crap. Really. One day they are going to come up with a way to tax us for farting... you weigh so much you fart so much. Methane is bad for the environment. You pay. LIke it or not. It is not a democracy it is a DEMORECRY. We need a new system. We need to revamp this so called democracy by the people for the people crap. The more they feed us political lines THE MORE I CRY. What if all of a sudden a group of people get together and may actually influence the outcome of elections. What is someone paid you to vote for someone. Would it make sense to sell your vote. At the least you make something out of it. Let’s say $1,000./vote? For some easy money. Would that still be a democracy? Think about it. What different is it then now. We are fooled to believe empty promises. We are mislead to believe. If we are going to get screwed over let’s at the least get paid. Much like the world’s oldest profession. Make them pay for it. Nothing is for free in this world and no one will ever give you or do something for without a price attached. I ENDORSE JOE INGINO FOR MAYOR OF OSHAWA IN 2022 VOTE INGINO

Does 'Networking' Make You Sweat?

By Nick Kossovan Opportunities are all around you-the caveat is they're attached to people. Therefore, (stay with me) the people you spend time with determines the opportunities you're made aware of. Building the right relationships-networking-is critical for your job hunts (You'll be conducting a few throughout your career.) and your career trajectory. It's not an overstatement to say, "relationships are everything." Those who take their career seriously are in constant networking mode. Networkers land the plumb jobs that aren't advertised, they tap into where most job openings exist, the hidden job market. People who don't network as part of their job search and career management activities either refuse to understand the value of networking or aren't as serious about their job search/career as they claim they are. You can either be networking (creating and maintaining relationships), or you can be an outsider looking in; it's entirely up to you. Ask yourself: Who's more likely to be hired, a stranger the hiring manager doesn't know, or someone they're familiar with, or a referral? I don't think in terms of "I'm networking." Instead, I prepared my ego by telling myself, "I'm just meeting people. Whatever happens, happens." No expectations. No agenda. Because of this mental preparation, meeting new people has become second nature for me. When I meet someone for the first time, I don't think, "What can I get?" Instead, I ask myself, "How can I help this person?" This mind flip is a game-changer. Now I'm not nervous, breaking into a cold sweat. I'm looking at how I can help my new acquaintance, such as introducing them to someone they may benefit from meeting. Unlike most people, I view networking as offering help rather than trying to obtain help. This reverse approach eliminates "networking anxiety." Focusing on how you can help a person is my first tip for making meeting new people less intimidating. My second tip, especially for those wishing to become comfortable with networking, is to practice networking with the right crowd. This tip is a spin on what I tell all job seekers, Search for your tribe! Being personable is much easier when you feel comfortable, so start where you feel most at ease. Identify groups and communities with members whom you share a common interest with. Commonalities build relationships. Therefore, it makes sense to begin your networking efforts where there's already a commonality. Have you ever been to a classic car show or a sporting event and found yourself conversing with a stranger about the 1970 Ford Mustang Mach 1 you both are admiring or the triple play that just occurred? Commonality created the conversation. Whether it's a classic car show, baseball game, rock concert, an art gallery opening, or a packed restaurant, you, along with everyone in attendance share a common interest. Once you're able to sustain a conversation beyond "That Stang's a beauty!" and "What a great play!" you can start diversifying your networking opportunities, keeping in mind to focus on looking for commonalities. "One should not focus on the differences between people but look for commonality and similarity." - Theodore Levitt (German-American economist, 1925 - 2006) Television host Larry King once said, "I never learned anything while I was talking." How will you know what you can do for someone if you're the one doing all the talking? You can't. Ask questions and be genuinely curious. (e.g., How long have you been with your company? What's the culture like? What trends do you see emerging in the next few years? How has the pandemic challenged your business?) Then ask more questions to gather more information. This is how you build relationships-leveraging the fact people love talking about themselves. Showing interest is a massive gesture to anyone you meet. There are endless opportunities to interact with people. A few months back, during an elevator ride, I learned my neighbour on my condo floor worked was the HR Director for a large publishing house. Good to know! Every time you talk to someone, you learn something new. Everyone you meet is someone you can help and someone who could be of assistance to you in some way, if not today, possibly down the road. As I mentioned earlier, meeting new people is easier when you look to give instead of taking. I'm sure you've heard, "It's not what you know; it's who you know." The second part of this statement is especially true. When it comes to opening doors, it's often "who you know." ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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

Her Parents' Marriage

Direct Answers from Wayne & Tamara

My husband and I recently celebrated our sixth anniversary. We planned to build our dream home next spring, but that was postponed when I told him I wasn’t sure what I wanted anymore. My husband is truly an incredible man. Very honest, responsible, respectful, and caring. I love his family more than my own. He would be a wonderful father, but there has always been something missing. Why I don’t know. I have everything anyone could want in a marriage. I had doubts even before we married, but I kept going with the flow. I’ve thought about leaving many times. I have wasted my husband's time, time he could have used to find the woman who would give him an honest marriage, and the baby he always wanted. I want a baby also, but knowing how unsure I am, I couldn’t do that now. I cheated on my husband, and he is aware of it. Knowing that, he still loves me and wants me. I don't deserve that. I have been to counseling and bible studies, but still wonder if leaving is the right thing. I love him, but I can’t be married to someone I don’t want to make love to. My mother and father have the kind of marriage I don’t want. They don’t sleep together, communicate, or make love. I don’t want to resent my husband the way my mother resents my father. I have been told my feelings will change, but it’s been six years and they haven’t changed yet. Can I learn to love him intimately? I feel I am wasting my time and my husband’s time. Joy Joy, things wrong from the beginning don’t somehow become right. If that was true, you could marry for money, or marry to please your parents, and be happy. Going with the flow was the easy road. It became the hard road. Once the wedding was over, all that was left was what was really there. Louis Armstrong, the great jazz trumpet player, said, “If it ain’t in your heart, it won’t come out of your horn.” It is not in your heart to love this man. It never has been. You mirrored back what he thought he felt for you. You have nothing bad to say about your husband, but already you understand your feelings are turning to anger, resentment, and bitterness. Until you are completely honest with him, he will feel he tried everything and failed. The new year is a time for hope, a time to make things right which are not right. Time is passing. Two people are being hurt here. There is hope in this if you admit what went wrong, went wrong on the wedding day. There is hope if you understand why you did what you did, so you never do it again. Wayne & Tamara Pursuit Of Perfection I am a 17-year-old male who recently got back together with his girlfriend. My problem is what to do about a night that doesn't go so great. If it ends on a bad note, or my girlfriend doesn't seem like herself, I get upset and blame myself. My girlfriend tells me to stop apologizing, that dates almost always have something go wrong. I only get to be with her maybe once or twice a week, and I want that time to be perfect. Am I expecting too much? Jon Jon, if you want each date, each task, or each day to be perfect, you will be haunted by a sense of failure. Many things are beyond our control. There are no happy perfectionists. A successful life is one in which we grow, become more, and realize what is in us. This means we start with less and become more. This means we start somewhere short of perfection. If each day was perfect, no day would be more than ordinary. Tamara Wayne & Tamara are also the authors of The Friendship Solution, Making Friends and Dropping Frenemies, available from Amazon, Apple and most booksellers. Wayne & Tamara write: Directanswers@WayneAndTamara.com

Bend So You Don’t Break

W. Gifford-Jones, M.D. and Diana Gifford-Jones Getting older takes a toll. Weakening bones, increasing aches and pains, and failing balance, flexibility and strength can make the body feel like worn-out baggage. But there’s a curious truth in an ancient Hindu text that states, “Everyone else is conquered by the body, but the body is conquered by yogis.” For centuries, yoga has been practiced by people all over the world for religious, spiritual rehabilitation or fitness reasons. The older set may see the neighbourhood yoga studio as a place for the young and nimble, but there is ample evidence that aging seniors benefit physically and mentally from instruction in the “sun salutation”, “tree pose”, or amusingly named positions like the “chair pigeon” or “cat-cow pose”. Yoga combines movement (asana) and breathwork (pranayama). The beneficial effects of yoga include relief from back pain, eased arthritis symptoms, better sleep, and improved mood. Regular yoga practice also promotes social connectivity and improved self-care. Yoga stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system – the “rest and digest” mechanism of the body – reducing heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure. Studies show decreases in blood glucose, cholesterol and sodium and increases in oxytocin. Yoga is effective in building strength, mobility and flexibility and aids in weight management and posture. Improved balance and functional movement are major benefits for seniors at risk of falling. These physiological benefits have led to the incorporation of yoga into the treatment of many chronic health conditions including diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and chronic pain. While many people initially look to yoga for physical health benefits, there are important psycho-spiritual perks as well. As a mindful practice, yoga increases concentration, memory, and attention. Hostility, anxiety, and depression are reduced. Instead, improvements in outlook and general self-acceptance arise. Breathwork patterns common to yoga practice are energizing and often used to treat depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Dr. Kirsten Blokland, a developmental psychologist and certified yoga teacher, states, “Synchronizing movement with breath can impart a feeling of coherence and integration – something that is so needed in our society, where many people report feeling fragmented and unsettled because of the hectic pace of our lives.” Dr. Blokland is part of a growing community of yoga specialists focusing on restorative yoga to assist with the healing process in response to significant medical challenges. Where do you start if you can’t touch your toes? It’s unfortunate if yoga conjures ideas of pretzel-like contortions. To the contrary, yoga can be enjoyed by even those with limited mobility. Chair yoga, a style of yoga performed in a seated position is a suitable starting point for people having difficulties getting from standing to seated on the floor repeatedly. Sitting down lowers the centre of gravity, protects hip and knee joints from weight-bearing and eliminates the need to rely on the shoulders and wrists for support. With the added stability of a chair, participants can concentrate more deeply on breathing and poses. There is also added accessibility of seated yoga. Everybody has access to a chair. Chair yoga can be done in the kitchen, in the office, or anywhere there is a place to sit. Chair yoga can be just as beneficial as other forms of practice, such as on a traditional yoga mat. “Chair/modified poses are in many ways just as beneficial as traditional asana poses – particularly when we consider that the benefits exist not just in the physical domain, but also in the psychological and spiritual domains,” says Dr. Blokland. As the body ages, take this advice to “bend so you don’t break.” Give it a try under the guidance of a trained instructor. Sign-up at www.docgiff.com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, contact-us@docgiff.com. Follow us Instagram @docgiff and @diana_gifford_jones

WE CAN ALWAYS DO BETTER

By Joe Ingino Editor/Publisher ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States “I live a dream in a nightmare world” Always Remember That The cosmic blueprint of your life was written in code across the sky at the moment you were born. Decode Your Life By Living It Without Regret. Many are asking how my mayoral platform is coming along. The platform is ready. The issue is how to tailor the presentation as it is not utilized without my permission before the election. In the past I have written solutions to a local problems... and boom miraculously and without any credit. The solution becomes implemented by City hall. Just recently the Mayor has been busy working on numerous press releases. Releases that through his administration were far from few. It appears now that we are upon the eve of a municipal election he has to make it look like he has done something and or is doing. The question I have for him is. How can he go to sleep at night knowing that his people are sleeping on the streets? In a release entitled: ‘Message from His Worship Mayor Dan Carter to Business Community Stakeholders, May 2022’,. He stated: Our economic recovery has always depended on the idea of working together. (his definition of together is... as long as it benefits him. The mayor has show bias and prejudice towards local businesses/contractors and developers. Why do you think we in Oshawa do not have any building over 20 floors. Real developers have pulled away and left it for these two by four/drywall type of future ghetto developers). Whether you’re a local consumer, business or government policymaker, our collective actions have a profound cumulative impact on our economic direction. (Really name one impact that they have had under his leadership? One.) That’s why advocacy is so important to the work we do at the City of Oshawa. When we formed the Mayor’s Economic Recovery Task Force in 2020, we knew that advocating for your business, hearing your voice and communicating that message with all tiers of government would be critically important to emerge from the pandemic in a stronger position than ever. (In my opinion the Task Force is a joke. The councillor chairing it has no actual business experience or practice. He is to be taken serious as an advocate? They tell people they are advocacy group... in other fancy word for saying they are doing nothing and relying on a prayer. This is the same advocate that refused $100,000. free money from a local business in the middle of COVID. This is the same mayor that refused this same company out of personal vendetta, prejudice, bias. This is the same mayor that has turned off real investment do to his red tape from his city permit department. This is the same mayor that advocated making illegal to feed the poor on our streets. The same advocates to spend your hard tax dollars on rent a cops at the tune of $90/hr and pay the guards $40. To harass and rough up the homeless. This is the same advocate that refused a permit for C.A.M.P- Community Assisted Meal Program. A program that ran with zero tax dollars. The mayor took it upon himself to shut it down... This is advocacy? This is leadership? No real or formal reason given. Just that he did not like the organizers. This is the same mayor that stands before his supporters of the Durham Realtor Board and boasts on how he brought a billion dollars worth of development during COVID. When in reality he had nothing to do with it, as it is called natural population growth. This is the same mayor that attempted to take credit for the announcement of GM once again tossing us a token bone. Smoke and mirror. This has to stop. Let’s bring pride back to Oshawa. Let’s stop pretending and let’s start doing what we should have been all along.

Canada at the Crossroads

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU E. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East As we descend from spring into summer in Canada, the days may be getting brighter, but the outlook for our society is somber. At 6.8% inflation is the highest it has been in 30 years. The bank prime rate quickly inching towards 3% will have a drastic cooling effect on house sales. High gasoline prices and an active war in Europe are just some of the events that are shaping our lives today. The Canadian political scenario is not doing anything to bring relief to the people who have been caged by the Covid-19 pandemic for more than 2 years. With businesses collapsing and the state intruding more and more on our private lives, one is driven to believe that Canada is going toward a multi-faceted trust crisis. Trust in our public institutions is fading fast, and what used to be the cornerstone of Canadian society, is cracking. Trust in our political system and politicians is at the lowest possible level. In Ontario we are facing a provincial election that seems colorless and odorless, mostly concerned with the elites and less with real people. Unfortunately, we do not foresee significant changes coming after the election. Politics is more interesting at the federal level, with the Conservatives engaged in a new leadership campaign and the governing Liberals in coalition with the NDP enacting legislation aimed at further limiting our freedom. If this continues and some common sense measures are not taken, this will irretrievably alter who we are as a country and how we govern ourselves. We will become more divided and less able to achieve big things that matter. Trust in our public institutions and people in general previously made Canada an enviable example of good governance in the world. We are on the verge of losing that and spiraling into unknown and unchartered waters. If not stopped, this downward spiral will spell disastrous consequences for our children and grandchildren. As we have seen, a polarizing pandemic has quickened the latent disintegration, alienation and loss of professionalism in Canada's politics. The ailments are plain to see: an increasingly coarse and negative political dialogue; a rejection of public policy compromise; and rising misinformation and censure of all kinds in society and across information platforms. Adding to this decline is the corrosion of the once proud public service. Mostly populated with senior officials who serve the politics of the day rather than the people, they contribute massively to the mushrooming trust deficit between Canadians and their governments. These tendencies raise core questions about what it means to govern in Canada today, and in the future. We need to remember that public servants are responsible for translating political direction from elected politicians into public policy and public services. They are charged with providing advice not just on the right public policy but on its effective implementation. To do this well in a system of responsible government with a non-partisan, independent public service, requires "fearless advice and loyal implementation." That is, the ability to speak "truth to power" and abide by the decisions of duly elected leaders. Are they doing that today? We really do not know. The Covid-19 pandemic brought to light some issues we need to reflect on, that indicate we need to move to a new and more up to date way of governance in our country. Once the scale of the pandemic became clear, governments at all levels moved erratically to respond to public need. The politicians delegated their responsibility and decision-making to unelected officials ostensibly invoking science. That resulted in trust levels of Canadians gradually declining in their governments as the pandemic wore on. Good governance is literally embedded in Canada's constitutional record or, more precisely, its BNA, the British North America Act. The phrase "Peace, order and good government" stems from the original 1867 constitutional document, which legally formed Canada. It has been a guiding principle ever since. Good governance means increased confidence in the decisions and actions of governments. That leads to greater legitimacy and acceptance of those decisions by citizens. Higher trust and faith in our public institutions then follows. The question now, is how we keep Canada united in today's tumultuous times. This goal raises new questions about the relationship between governments and the governed; between citizens and state. Maybe it is time to update our governance system with new concepts appropriate to this century. Many questions arise. What do we want from government? Not just bigger or smaller government, but what is the role of government and its institutions in society today? These questions are questions related to governance; the way we do things for our citizens for their benefit and for the benefit of the country. In conclusion, Canada's governments and leaders will need to listen more to Canadians and learn from them in the months and years ahead in order to re-establish our traditional, common sense and uniquely strong democratic traditions and public institutions. Our public servants need to be part of this process because they have a big stake in getting this right. Listening and learning from their front-line experiences with citizens and inside experiences with politicians would be advisable. Come down from your ivory towers. Let us hope that sanity will prevail and as a country we will once again be at the forefront of a good governance fully trusted by the people. Hope is not lost yet, wake up Canada!

'Whataboutism,' Is There Such a Thing?

'Whataboutism,'

By Nick Kossovan If everyone is guilty of something, is no one guilty of anything? Morality doesn't pick sides. It doesn't care about borders, political ideologies, socio-economic status, religions, genders, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation or whether you like pineapple on your pizza. (Have I covered everything we use to divide ourselves?). There's good, and there's bad. Bad behaviour is bad behaviour. Yes, it's that simple-it's that black and white. However, these days calling out bad behaviour is fraught with self-righteous deflection. Increasingly, the following scenario occurs. You'll be having a conversation. Perhaps over coffee, a few drinks, or a meal. Inevitably Russia will come up, or Trudeau, or Biden. Your conversation partner bought into the social pressure that they're a Russian sympathizer if they don't stand by Ukraine as we're being told to do. Finally, you give in to your animal instinct and ask the "elephant in the room" questions. "Obama launched airstrikes in Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Libya, Yemen, Somalia and Pakistan. Where was the outrage then?" or "Canada sanctions Russia for invading Ukraine. Why did Canada not sanction the U.S. when it invaded Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, Libya, etc.?" Yay freethinkers! Have the nerve to mention the "mistakes," made by our side, and the blended word whataboutism will be used against you. (Fun fact, "whataboutism" was added to the dictionary in October 2021.) In philosophy, whataboutism is known as "tu quoque," pointing out hypocrisy. I've yet to meet a person who doesn't become defensive when their hypocrisy, or their side's hypocrisy, is pointed out. When Michael Corleone, in Godfather II, said, "Senator, we are all part of the same hypocrisy," he eloquently, I would even say artistically, used whataboutism to neutralize any sense of moral superiority Senator Geary felt he had over him. Michael understood that his hypocrisy served his interests, and his family's and that the same hypocrisy served the senator's interests. The hypocrisy the U.S. uses to serve and protect its interests is the same hypocrisy Russia, Turkey, China, U.K.-all nations-use to serve and protect their interests. As to why Canada didn't sanction the U.S. when it invaded Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, Libya et al.; it's in Canada's best interest to take a hypocritical stance of not showing disapproval of its southern neighbour's wrongdoings and sometimes going as far as supporting the U.S.'s wrongdoings. Whataboutism was coined during the postwar years when American-Russian relations were rather tense, and the following back-and-forth occurred: The Soviet Union would commit a crime, according to the West. Washington would call them on it. The Kremlin would then point out that the U.S. was also committing heinous acts. These accusations would contain the phrase "What about …" and point out America's Jim Crow laws, which until the Civil Rights Act of 1964 weren't entirely extinct, the U.S.'s bombing sprees, or any other embarrassing facts about the West. The U.S., and its western allies, began responding to the Russian critique by labelling it "Whataboutism." American intellectuals would later use the term "moral equivalence." Whataboutism in action a few years back: Obama laments about Putin's 2014 invasion and seizure of Crimea. In response, Putin mentions Kosovo and the Scottish Independence Referendum. Russia's crimes are well known, as are Western (e.g., Apartheid, Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Turkish-Kurdish conflict, systemic racism, U.S.-led war in Iraq, human rights violations against immigrants, indigenous people, Guantánamo Bay). Conveniently, mainstream scholars have never pointed out that all nations are amoral and capable of committing great evil. Western countries sell themselves as "developed" and "democratic." They're quick to criticize countries they dislike. The world cheered when Ukrainians stocked up Molotov cocktails and took up arms against the Russians. However, when Palestinians and Iraqis do the same thing, they're labelled "terrorists." Whatever you call it: whataboutism, moral equivalence, two wrongs, double standards, it boils down to this: My side isn't subject to the same moral rules as the other side. My side has excusing factors for what it did. (or is doing) What nonsense! There isn't one moral law for the goose and another for the gander. Moral rules are universal. Whatever your political stance, whatever your geopolitical background, crime is crime, racism is racism, hypocrisy is hypocrisy, and human rights violations are human rights violations. People who have the courage to be a libertarian thinker understand this: If it's wrong when Stephen Harper did it, it's wrong when Justin Trudeau does it. If Trump's sexual predations were wrong, so were Bill Clinton's predations. If Russia launching missiles at Ukrainians is wrong, then Turkey's aerial bombing of Kurdish civilians is also wrong. Western media tries to explain why our wrongs are less bad, less evil, and excusable, than the wrongs of "the other side." Wrong is wrong regardless of who does it. Whataboutism doesn't just point to historical wrongdoings. Trudeau letting in an unlimited number of Ukrainian refugees begs the "what about" question, why isn't he doing the same for Afghans, Syrians, etc., refugees? You can draw your own conclusions as to the reasons why. A question such as this comes across as being centrist. Actually, "what about" questions are far from ambivalent. Moral clarity requires disruptive conversations-uncomfortable conversations. Moral clarity condemns self-interest and the even worse self-serving consensus talk for the high-grade cowardly drivel it is. Here's an example. If there's one thing both sides of Washington's political divide agree on, and Canadians look at enviously, that is the virtue and beauty of U.S. force projection. Based on their actions Democrat and Republican presidents as far back as Harry S. Truman, seem to have a fondest for bombing poor people in distant lands. Pundits love it. Western foreign policy establishments love it. Western mainstream media love it. But this is utter insanity. If bombing Americans is wrong, then bombing the people of Yemen is wrong. No one-not even those who speculate on the geopolitical reasons for Russia going into Ukraine-disagrees with condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, ignoring that the U.S. has been violating other nations' sovereignty-Chile, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Argentina, Iraq, Iran, Brazil, Angola, Zaire, Cuba, Libya, Afghanistan, China to name a few-for years is hypocritical. It doesn't matter what gets hashed out in bipartisan meetings; ethical standards are universal. The Ukrainian resistance and the civilian victims of Russia's invasion are given sympathetic coverage by Western media. This raises the "what about" question of why there hasn't been a comparable response when the victims aren't white, Christian Europeans or when the aggressor is the U.S. or a U.S. ally? The double standards and resulting hypocrisy coming out of Washington, and the West, is obvious. A recent example: President Joe Biden asserted that "nations have a right to sovereignty and territorial integrity." He is 100% on point! However, the U.S. is the only government to formally recognize Israel's illegal occupation of Syria's Golan Heights and Morocco's annexation of the entire nation of Western Sahara, both seized by force in defiance of the United Nations. See the hypocrisy? Another recent example: Despite the decree issued by Joe Biden on October 7, 2021, Washington didn't react to Turkey's attacks targeting civilians in Rojava. Such blatant hypocrisy invites "what about" questions. Two Nations Clinging Onto 'What Once Was.' Regardless of your political stripes, it's easy to see two declining superpowers-a corrupt and morally bankrupt America and the crumbling oligarchy of Putin's Russia-trying to hang onto what once was. Today the U. S. is an imploding republic whose global influence is dwindling, while Russia is a rusted-out autocracy that can barely project strength outside of its neighbourhood. These different "Rome is burning" scenarios don't give Washington the right to one set of moral laws and Moscow to another set. The moral arc of the universe doesn't bend that way. When Washington accuses Russia of hacking America's elections, then moral seriousness demands it addresses U.S. interference in past Russian elections. If it's wrong for Iran to oppress women, then it's wrong for Saudi Arabia to oppress women. If China is barbaric for using capital punishment, so is the U.S. If the U.S. recognizes the Republic of Kosovo, it should recognize Kurdish self-determination in Kurdistan and Rojava as well. Isn't all oppression of women wrong? Isn't all capital punishment barbaric? Shouldn't the desire for self-determination be listened to empathically and at the very least applauded? Only when self-interest is removed from the equation will the answer be a universal "Yes!" Whataboutism is the complaint of the intellectually lazy. One person's whataboutism is another person's pointing out similar cases to support an analogy. Someone who say, "That's whataboutism!" doesn't like the connecting of dots. Those who use the term whataboutism do so to deflect the hypocrisy being pointed out, especially if it's hypocrisy the West benefits from. As long as there are double standards that serve our interests, there'll always be those who'll say, when asked a "what about" question, "That's whataboutism!"-what can you do? ____________________________________________ Nick Kossovan, a self-described connoisseur of human psychology, writes about what's on his mind from Toronto. You can follow Nick on Twitter and Instagram @NKossovan

BELL ARE A BUNCH OF CROOKS

By Rosaldo Russo Allow me to begin this column by thanking the Oshawa/Central newspaper for allowing me the opportunity and access to the press. Not to many if any allow an average person like me to tell the world what I see and think. In my opinion. The Editor/Publisher is a real upstanding type of guy. He shoots from the hip and hold traditional core values. My name is Rosaldo Russo. I came to this great country to make a better life for myself and my family. I thank Canada for everything it has allowed me to do and earn. I worked construction all my life. I know the value of hard work and honesty. I remember as a boy my father always telling me to work hard and buy land. So I did. I remember days when I did not have enough to eat. I go to work... but I did not wait for hand outs. I rounded up my pride my skill and my determination to succeed and went to work. In those days the only benefits we received was the fact we were employed. Before retiring I was the owner and operator of local material supply company that allowed me to retired without worry. Now that I have time to enjoy life. I look around me and have some concern for future generations. I see that the world is finished. I like to begin this column by making one point very clear. It is not about the money but about the business practice that BELL utilizes. I have been a loyal client of BELL as most of you. We pay our bills and entrust that BELL has our backs. That they offer the best service possible at a competitive rate. Well I was wrong. It all started with a technical problem. I called them. I got transfered from one person to another.... a voice message came up informing me that ‘BELL CANADA” now only employs 100% Canadian customer service. Now don’t get me wrong. If anyone has an accent that is hard to understand is my Italian one. But I get a long and don’t and would never dare work for BELL... When I finally got someone after playing the usual trivial pursuit voice service game. Press one if you like to continue in English. Press two if in French.... Like really!!! Who presses the french. Any how. Once I got to the person I was supposed to talk. I had to play the identify yourself game. HOW INSANE. Now I was 19 minutes in this call and my problem not brought up once. Finally, I survived the authentication process.... I am told I am in the wrong department... AHHHH... another 20 minutes and I am told that in my area there is no internet service. Incredible. So then I look at my bill. I had a package rate. Phone, Net and Cell. I was paying for a service I did not use. Not only that. When I checked with other companies I was over paying by like fifty dollars. Come on people... we as Canadians have become so docile. We take it and take it. NO MORE. I told them to shove it... In retaliation. Bell will not release my phone number to the new company. I called the CRTC. Another great government agency good for nothing. What is it with this country that we go from one automated system right on to another. Come on... Enough is Enough. I ENDORSE JOE INGINO FOR MAYOR OF OSHAWA IN 2022 VOTE INGINO

Before Joining 'The Great Resignation' Rethink Your Current Employer

By Nick Kossovan My addiction to job hunting ("the hunt") has made me somewhat of an expert at landing jobs-and a job hopper. "Look at me! I'm moving on to greener pastures!", "I'm going to where I'll be paid what I believe I'm worth!", "At my new employer, management will get me." I know firsthand how job-hopping can make a person feel as if they're in control. I've also experienced firsthand, more than once, starting a new job and realizing within a few days, even hours, that leaving my previous employer was a mistake-I'd made a hasty decision. The media is reporting that everyone is quitting their jobs; as a result, employers are experiencing "The Great Resignation." This mass reshuffling of employment is attributed to the pandemic prompting employees to seek better jobs. Actually, the Great Resignation represents the peak of a long-term trend of rising quitting rates that began over a decade ago due to five factors: retirement, relocation, reconsideration, reshuffling, and reluctance. If the media is to be believed, employers have trouble filling job openings; hence, job candidates are now in the driver's seat. In contrast, emails I receive from frustrated job seekers paint a different picture. Don't let wishful thinking lull you into believing today's job market isn't populated with hyper-competition, especially for sought-after jobs at sought-after companies. I don't have a crystal ball, so I can't predict the future power dynamics between employers and employees. However, I'm certain about one thing, the employer-employee relationship, and the economy, which is cyclical, are in constant flux. Inevitably employers will be back in the driver's seat, which given the rapid growth in AI, robotics, and self-service, not to mention using contractors and contractor, might be sooner than employees would like. Additionally, Bay Street and Wall Street are nervous, central banks are hiking interest rates attempting to curb inflation, and geopolitical unrest is worsening supply chain issues that began in 2020. Based on history, the recent spike in inflation will cause the economy to contract. The warning signs of a looming recession, possibly a major one, are flashing. It's not a matter of if there'll be an economic contraction/recession; it's a matter of when, which means employers will downsize. If you're considering joining the Great Resignation, keep the following in mind: Last one in, first one out. No one's ever accused me of not being pragmatic. I'm not saying you should stay with your current employer forever. Considering my track record that be hypocritical of me to say. Changing jobs for the right reasons and at the right time-making a well-thought-out strategic move-is often required for career advancement and income growth. What are your reasons for wanting to join the Great Resignation? We're talking about your career. I assume you have career goals other than "to make lots of money." Are you just jumping on the Great Resignation bandwagon? Is now the time for you to move on? Don't let your ego make your decision. An article I read on the Ultimate Kronos Group (UKG™) website, 15+ Million Pandemic-Era U.S. Job Quitters Say They Were Better Off in Their Old Jobs, makes the point that we seldom give our decisions the serious consideration they deserve. According to the article, 43% of people who quit during the pandemic admit they were better off at their old jobs, and 1 in 5 have returned to their old employer. Maybe the media should be reporting on "The Great Regret." To avoid regretting having left your employer consider the following: - TIP: Write a pros and cons list of leaving your current employer. - Don't just chase money. The most common reason to change jobs is to earn more money, but is the "more money after taxes" worth it? More money means more accountability, headaches, stress and hours, higher expectations, etc. - Are you running away from your present employer because the going is getting tough, and you believe elsewhere will be easier? What is your reasoning for believing that elsewhere will be better? - What do you expect from a new employer? Are you being realistic? - How will changing your employer now advance your career? There's nothing wrong with wanting a shiny new job, new colleagues, a new boss, etc. I know what the need to get out of Dodge feels like. However, upon reflection on whether the grass will be greener elsewhere, you might conclude staying put, for now, is in your best interest. Staying put could be the best career decision you ever make. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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

False Imprisonment

False Imprisonment from Wayne & Tamara

Three years ago my husband confessed to me face-to-face, he had an affair with a friend of mine. It hurt me so bad, but after days of him apologizing, saying how much he loved me and what a mistake he made, I took him back. Now he is controlling me. He doesn't like me to sit and talk with my friends, or play cards with them. He wants me to stay here at home under him. He doesn't trust me, though I never gave him reason to doubt me. I believe he's afraid I am going to get revenge on him. I've asked him, but of course he denies it. He goes hunting and camping while I stay home with the kids, but when I want to go out, he blows up. When I reminded him I stay home so he can go out, he said he won't hunt or camp again. I have suggested separating for a while and see if time apart improves things. He said if I leave, that's it. Now I feel I need to stay home and go nowhere just to keep him satisfied. He even gets mad if I go to my mother's. Please help. Millicent Millicent, cheaters believe others cheat. Liars believe others lie. Thieves believe others steal. Your husband thinks, "She's no better than I am. If I could cheat, she could too." Every day that goes by, his fear builds. He is thinking, "If she gets away from me, she'll get even with me, and I won't even know for sure she did it." He knows he would never forgive you what you forgave him. The guilty party is in control here, and he doesn't have the right. He is acting like a jailer, and you are innocent of all crimes. You may feel separation will give you more standing in your relationship. If you want to exercise that option, don't let his threat stop you. Many books have been written about how to get past infidelity, but our experience is that cheating always remains central to the relationship. How do you uncrack an egg? The answer is: you don't. Wayne & Tamara First Things First I was with this guy a year. He wasn't my first, but I never knew I was capable of such deep love. I told my friends he's an angel. One day I visited him in the hostel, and a girl was in his room. I didn't suspect anything because I knew they had a report to finish. But they were so very quiet that day, like they were hiding something. When he offered to walk me home, I asked him jokingly if they were together. Surprise, surprise! He said, "Yes." I thought he was pulling my leg, but after asking him repeatedly, the truth sank in. The days after that were hell. I was suicidal. Three months later, I am no longer suicidal, but I…well…practice self-mutilation. I know it's wrong, but when I think about the past, hurting myself physically seems to ease the emotional pain. It feels good when I cut myself. Exams are around the corner. I can't concentrate. It hurts so much when I see them hand in hand, smiling and laughing. I used to participate in life, now I'm an observer. I feel I'm just waiting for death. Thanks for listening even if you don't answer. Cindy Cindy, when you have a known, identifiable problem like a broken arm, you need the assistance of a trained physician. You have a known, identifiable problem, and a trained professional can help break you free. Until you deal with this, it won't be possible to deal with anything else. If the first therapist doesn't help, seek a second or a third. Addressing this problem comes first in your life. Don't give up, do it until it is done. Wayne & Tamara. Wayne & Tamara are also the authors of The Friendship Solution, Making Friends and Dropping Frenemies, available from Amazon, Apple and most booksellers. Wayne & Tamara write: Directanswers@WayneAndTamara.com