Talking about Sex, Love, and Safety

By Common Sense Health – W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford Marilyn Monroe, the American actress and sex symbol of the 1950s, said, “Sex is a part of nature. I go along with nature.” It was scandalous then, and speaking about sex is still difficult terrain for many people. A reader recently asked for our thoughts on how to advise young people about sex. The New Year is as good a time as any other to talk about sex – how it relates to life, love, luck, and liberty, and to pain, panic, power, and other potential problems. For those hoping we’ll disclose the information and tools you need to talk about sex with your loved ones, it’s necessary to splash a little cold water. This week’s column is full of cautionary notes, and here’s the first one. It’s impossible to treat any topic well in the 600 words allocated each week. If we have any sage advice, it’s that readers do their homework. To get a decent understanding of any topic, especially complex health ones, you need to read a lot, consult widely, and think about how the issues relate to your family history and context. We hope our brief commentaries spark such efforts and thinking. Regarding the challenge of talking with youth about sex, we’d offer three starting points. One, it’s a good idea to acknowledge that, for all its joys, sex has risks, complications, and consequences. So, if you are not ready to discuss diseases, relationships, and financials, you are probably not ready to talk about sex! Go back to start. Two, face-to-face discussions can be a turn-off to youth, as can traditional mores. “Mother knows best” could be adjusted to “More experienced people who know you well might be worth listening to.” But even that done, kids will always reject authority, so pointing them to good resources they can access on their own might be a good option. Maybe waiting for a ring is outdated, but there is something to be said for a little forethought and deliberation. Three, safety is paramount. It might be boring, but like a good insurance policy, analysis of risks and paying a premium to prepare for the worst-case scenario is a worthwhile investment. It’s an awful fact that its not uncommon for young people to experience sexual assault either personally or in their friend group. Make sure they know where to turn for help. Birth control needs to be explained and easily accessible. Safe sex includes using condoms to protect from sexually transmitted diseases. Talking about sex is part art, part connect the dots. Either way, for many people, it is hard to open a discussion. The downside of not discussing sex with the young people you love is relinquishing the territory to less honourable sources. The images and messages they will encounter online are probably not your idea of healthy sex education. But take heart, there are other topics that, apparently, are harder to discuss. Studies have found that parents of teens find it more difficult to talk about weight with their child than talking about sex. That’s something to think about! Keep these things in mind. One, there are resources to help. Two, everyone likely has a few questions they’d like to surface. Three, everyone has biases too, and if they can be acknowledged, the discussions might be easier. Dr. Ruth Westheimer always gave her advice straight and to the point. “When it comes to sex, the most important six inches are the ones between the ears.” Tell that to the kids. The joke is easy to remember and there’s truth in the humour. 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

A letter from the heart

By Dale Jodoin Dear Friends, When the holiday lights go out and the last piece of pie is gone, many men feel a big weight on their shoulders. It's not easy. Everyone looks to you to keep things going, to pay the bills, and to make sure everyone is happy. But it's hard, really hard, especially after all the fun of Christmas. Sometimes, people don't understand what you're going through. They might say you're being too tough or not listening. But you're just trying to do what's best for your family. You want to teach your kids to find good people and to be strong, just like you're trying to be. The world doesn't make it easy. Everything costs a lot, like gas for the car and electricity for the house. You have to figure out how to pay for everything without making your family feel like they're losing out. It's like walking a tightrope every day. I'm not a money expert, but I know what it's like. I've been there, feeling the pressure and trying to keep everything balanced. It's about finding little ways to make things better without feeling bad about it. Here's a little secret: doing something you love, like a sport or a hobby, can help a lot. It's like taking a deep breath when you're feeling too much stress. It could be anything – boxing, watching a funny show, or playing a video game. It's not running away from problems; it's just giving your mind a little break. But you know what's really important? Having friends who understand you. It's tough for men to talk about these things sometimes. But finding a buddy to chat with, to share what's going on, can make a big difference. It's not about being weak; it's about being strong together. Long ago, men used to hang out more, maybe at a bar or a bowling alley. Nowadays, it might seem like those places are gone, but the need for friendship isn't. You can start something new with friends, like a group that meets up now and then to talk, have fun, or just be there for each other. Being a man today can be confusing. You're supposed to be strong but also open and understanding. It's okay to be both. It's okay to enjoy time with your friends and to be the person your family relies on. It doesn't make you less; it makes you more complete. In tough times, it's easy to think you have to give up everything you enjoy to make ends meet. But it's not about giving everything up. It's about finding balance, making smart choices, and remembering to take care of yourself too. You can't help anyone if you're not feeling okay. So, what's the plan? Find those little things that make you happy and do them. Talk to your friends, spend time with your family, and when things get too much, remember it's okay to take a step back and breathe. Life is like a big puzzle, and sometimes you have to move the pieces around to make them fit better. Remember, it's a tough road, but you're not walking it alone. There are many of us out here, feeling the same things, facing the same challenges. We can support each other, share our stories, and find strength in knowing we're all in this together. You're doing a great job. Just by being there, trying your best, and facing each day, you're showing what it really means to be strong. So keep going, keep trying, and keep being the amazing person you are. Take care, and here's to better days ahead!

Making 2024 Your Best Year Is Your Responsibility. Start by Making Better Choices.

By Nick Kossovan There is no way to predict what 2024 will bring except that your life will continue. It is entirely up to you how your life continues. The Question: Do you want to be like most people and be the same person next year as you are today, or come next December, feel you have stretched yourself and are closer to living your full potential? It is common for people to make New Year's resolutions, committing themselves to achieving one or more personal goals. We see a new year ahead, and we imagine what could be. New Year! New Me! By mid-February, most New Year's resolutions have been abandoned. There are many reasons (READ: excuses) why New Year's resolutions usually fail; number one is making a resolution, such as I will lose 40 kgs by December 31st, I will read a book a month, I will walk no less than 10,000 steps per day, requires a change of behaviours, and for most people, this is a considerable challenge. Continuing with your current behaviours, habits, and beliefs (When was the last time you questioned your beliefs?) and staying in your comfort zone is much easier than adopting new behaviours, even when you know you will benefit from doing so. The key to reaching your goals is to consider them holistically. Do not envision your goals as end destinations. Instead, envision achieving your goals as a series of choices you need to make to reach them. "Life is the sum of all your choices" — Albert Camus, French philosopher. Say you have the financial goal of wanting to save $7,500 next year. Think of all the behaviours you must change in order to achieve this goal, the biggest being your current spending habits. Changing your spending habits means adopting new behaviours, such as saying "No" to friends wanting you to join them on a night out on the town, not entertaining marketing propaganda, not spending to appear rich, having your bank make automatic monthly savings withdrawals, to even the following the try and true of bringing your lunch to work and making your coffee at home. I am sure you have family and friends whom you notice say they want to achieve XYZ but act in a way that goes against what they say they want. I see this all the time, especially regarding money and health. Who does not know someone who says they are always broke, yet their consumerism is a marketer's wet dream? Or who says they want to be in better shape and still treat their body as a garbage disposal? To achieve a goal, you need to choose the actions necessary to achieve your goal. If you want a promotion in 2024 then you need to strengthen your relationship with your boss and their boss, read industry magazines, take relevant courses, network with industry influencers, and establish a personal brand that you are someone who gets things done. All these activities require a change in your behaviour of choosing actions that support these activities and not choosing to binge-watch Netflix series, sitting around with your "buddies" drinking beers and complaining about how unfair life is or spending hours mindlessly scrolling your social media feeds. Undeniably, the choices you make determine the course of your life. What you eat, who you associate with, what you read, and what you mentally consume have consequences. Most people do not give their choices and decisions the seriousness they deserve. Start thinking about the implications of your choices, and your life will take a radically different turn. Whenever I meet someone who complains they are not living the life they say they want, I know they have made, and probably continue to make, bad choices. Making better choices is much easier when you are focused, razor-like, on a goal or objective. The following steps will help you make better choices: · Make a list of your top three 2024 goals. Even better, stick images of your goals where you will see them daily. (e.g., your fridge, the back of your front door, your bathroom mirror) · Every morning, ask yourself what you will do today to get closer to your top three goals. (Your answer will guide you in making choices that support achieving your goals, to saying "Yes" to the right things and "No" to the wrong things.) · Every evening, ask yourself if you have kept your promises to yourself. (Did you walk 10,000 steps? Did you bring your lunch to work? Did you read 15 - 20 pages of the book you are reading this month?) By doing the above, you will make better choices, and your life will inevitably change. I guarantee that you will take your life in a new direction if next year you do nothing but question your choices. Instead of making 2024 New Year's resolutions, commit to making better choices that support your goals. New Year's resolutions will not change you; only better choices, new actions, and new habits will. __________________________________________________________________________ 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 Sad State of Scientific Education in Canada

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East As the year, 2023 draws to a close we are faced with mostly negative events, both internally and externally. In such circumstances, it is important to take stock of our situation. In Canada we need to pay more attention to our future. Any nation’s future lies in their children, so we need to focus on education in general and science education in particular. If Canada wants to stay at the technological forefront in the world, it must pay more attention to the education of the new generation. They are the future and in order to maintain the standard of living we are accustomed to, we need to pay attention to education. As stated several times by concerned educators, it is time to eliminate politics from education and concentrate on real teaching. In so doing, it must be noted that successful mathematics education in Canada has undergone a concerning decline. Between 2003 and 2022, math scores on international exams administered by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) have declined in all Canadian provinces. In almost all provinces, the proportion of students performing at the lowest levels has increased since 2003 and has more than doubled in some cases. Equally concerning, the percentage of students performing at the highest levels has decreased. In some provinces, it has decreased by more than half. More students are struggling with math and fewer students are excelling. While the pandemic likely affected the most recent scores, the downward trend started well before that, so other factors must be contributing to the long-term decline. Mathematics is more important than ever to maintain a modern economy, despite the new woke political left is claims to the contrary. Therefore, this decline should be a matter of public concern and requires immediate action from provincial governments, which are responsible for education. A baseline level of mathematics competency is necessary to participate meaningfully in society. A high level of mathematics proficiency is required for careers that underpin our economy, including those in technology, new sources of energy, artificial intelligence, and data science, to name a few. Before pursuing this issue further, perhaps it is worth noting that there are very few politicians with a background in scientific education either in the federal or provincial parliaments. In my humble opinion, this is a factor of concern. Other countries, which are evolving technologically on the world scene, have a healthy representation of scientifically educated members in their parliaments. I will not give examples because I would like you to verify this fact, which you may find upsetting. Misguided and/or misinterpreted ideas about teaching math have also gained popularity in recent years. Despite math being fundamental to a high tech society, and research having shown parallels between the importance of reading and math, math education does not receive the same level of promotion as reading and social sciences. Math is an abstract subject and therefore conceptually more difficult. It is also cumulative and needs to be built on solid foundations. So effective math education is a long-term process that must be planned carefully and executed strategically. It starts early, and builds on informal understanding that is gradually and systematically connected to formal mathematics. It involves hard work with plenty of practice, but it is rewarding and fun when taught by people who understand mathematics themselves. Students who do not receive effective instruction in due time, or get disjointed instruction from people with limited competence and must therefore indulge in mindless practice, will grow to hate math. Worse still, they can easily fall behind and abandon mathematics altogether, which will severely limit their career choices and jobs. Students need a strong base of foundational skills to succeed with more complex problem solving. Student fluency with math concepts, such as basic number facts and fractions in the early years place them on the trajectory to algebra, which is the foundation for the higher-level mathematics required for quantitative careers and high tech jobs. Therefore, provincial governments should ensure that mathematics-teaching practices are aligned with the science of learning. Notable improvements should be made to math curricula and teacher education. Transparency and accountability in reporting student achievement should be a priority. This includes explicitly teaching students, incorporating ample practice, and using other evidence-informed techniques. Professional development that downplays the need for explicit instruction, devalues student practice, or fails to provide solid evidence for the effectiveness of its programs should be avoided. Public funds should not be spent on such programs. Provincial math curricula should be drastically rewritten in order to remove ineffective pedagogical directives and stress important topics, at appropriate grade levels, known to lead to later success in math. Homework should be assigned regularly and a strong parent-teacher dialog should be established. In addition, the use of distracting electronic devices such as smartphones should be limited on school propriety. Accountability to parents and the public are key aspects of successful education systems. Parents are important stakeholders in Canadian education and should be regularly provided with clear and accurate reports on what their children are being taught and how their children are performing so they can assist and advocate for their children. Provincial assessments at several grade levels provide important data to help identify flaws in the system and hold decision-makers accountable. Present tendencies, influenced by biased social politics, to remove provincial assessments and reduce transparency in communicating students’ performance to parents are grossly misguided and should be reversed. In conclusion, effective mathematics education must be prioritized in Canadian schools. Canadian children deserve it, and the future of our economy depends on it! Happy New Year 2024!

The Games Politicians Play 2

I would like to begin this column by thanking this great newspaper. The only still-in-print newspaper serving all of Durham Region and our great City of Pickering, and to all of the people of Pickering who read this column. Thank you for the support and trust you placed in me when you elected me as your City Councillor. I like to think that I represent those who not only voted for me, but those who voted for other candidates as well. Wishing you all a joyous New Year filled with love, laughter, happiness, and endless possibilities! God Bless In the pursuit of personal gain, politicians often resort to what one would call character assassination. Tarnishing the reputation of rivals, by any means necessary when their colleague or opponent starts to emerge as the more favorable choice. Delving into the deep obis of past social media posts, friends, work places, searching for any potential leverage that can be twisted and exploited in an attempt to discredit their nemesis. Career politicians have mastered this fine art of using strategic maneuvers to carefully craft narratives to obscure reality by bending truths, and distorting the facts, until it suits their agenda of discrediting their opponent to secure victory. I know politicians whose day-to-day happiness is solely dependent on exploiting and manipulating others. Boasting about how they could put a knife in your back, slowly twist it, and you would never know until they were ready to pull it out. Feeding off self arrogance, and their own excessive sense of importance, while exploiting and manipulating others. Taking notes, snapping screenshots, hiding behind fake social media accounts, and waiting for that perfect opportunity to destroy the lives of another human being, even a best friend. All in the pursuit of power. Welcome to the complex world of political tactics In this high-stakes game, politicians possess an uncanny knack for bending the truth to fit their desired narrative. Through carefully constructed speeches and calculated messaging, they aim to sway public opinion, distorting reality with carefully chosen words. Crucial details are conveniently omitted, and achievements are exaggerated, all in the name of winning the hearts and minds of the electorate, in hopes of securing their seat in the next election. Manipulation goes beyond truth-bending; it extends into the realm of distorting facts. Politicians also have mastered the art of selectively presenting information to bolster their arguments. They meticulously shape the narrative, by presenting a skewed version of reality that aligns with their goals. Statistics are cherry-picked, surveys frame questions in a way that predetermines the desired outcome while creating the illusion that it is our shared true opinion. Manipulation of this kind was designed to make it seem like you had the opportunity to express your opinion when in reality your answers were influenced by the wording and structure of the survey itself. They talk about transparency and accountability, being the cornerstones of a healthy democracy, except politicians strategically choose which aspects of a story to disclose, while deliberately withholding the whole truth. By carefully selecting information, they control the narrative and manipulate public opinion. The result? A society left grappling with half-truths and distorted realities, hindering our ability to make informed decisions. We have always been taught that politics is a dirty game, however until I became a politician, I didn’t realize the extent of how this dirty game is comprised of mostly smoke and mirrors, and that we are all mere pawns on a political chessboard. The lack of truth and integrity is a casualty of this cutthroat game, making it difficult for opposing views to gain traction and effect change. Alliances are forged utilizing their collective influence to intimidate and silence those who dare to oppose their agenda, and like the narcissist, they believe the world only revolves around them. . "Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head-On And Rise Above It"

Support Your Local Sports in Oshawa and the Durham Region

Support Your Local Sports in Oshawa and the Durham Region By Dale Jodoin As we look toward the new year, it's easy to see the challenges around us. Many countries are facing tough times with jobs disappearing, people struggling to find homes, and prices of everyday things like food going up. It can seem like a lot to handle, but there's always a silver lining and reasons to be hopeful. Let's talk about what we can look forward to and how we can make next year a time for positive change! Firstly, it's important to remember that no matter how tough things get, there are always good things happening too. Maybe we'll see changes in our government that will lead to better decisions for everyone. In the United States and other places, people are hoping for new leaders who will make a difference. Change can be good, and it's something to look forward to. Even when times are tough, it's important to look around and appreciate what we do have. Maybe you have a warm place to sleep, enough food to eat, or family and friends who love you. These are big blessings, and remembering them can make us feel a lot better. Now, let's talk about what we can do to make things even better next year. Many people are saying it's time for what they call the "year of the pushback." This means that it's time for us to speak up and ask our leaders to make changes that will help everyone. We can ask them to build more schools where people can learn important skills like welding or cooking. We can ask them to make sure our farmers and truck drivers, who work so hard to bring us our food and other things we need, are treated fairly. It's a lot to ask for, but when lots of people work together and speak up, big things can happen! We can also learn more about things like artificial intelligence, which is a fancy way of saying computers that can think and learn. By understanding how these work, we can be smarter about the world and make even better suggestions for how to improve things. Some people worry that with all these changes, things might get really tough, and they talk about scary things like civil wars. But that's not the way to think about it. The real battle is in making sure everyone's voice is heard and voting for leaders who will make a positive difference. Voting is one of the most powerful things we can do, and when it's time to vote, it's like saying what we want the future to look like. As we get ready for the new year, it's like we're all getting on a big, exciting ride together. Sure, it might have some ups and downs, but together, we can make sure it's a fun and hopeful journey. Think of it like a roller coaster — it might be scary at times, but it's also thrilling, and in the end, we're all in it together, holding hands and cheering each other on. So, as we say goodbye to this year and hello to the next, let's make a wish together. Let's wish for a year where everyone works together to make things better, where we all learn new things and help each other out. Let's wish for a year full of laughter, love, and lots of good surprises. And most of all, let's make sure to give our loved ones big hugs and tell them how much they mean to us because they're the biggest reason of all to hope for a great new year. In the end, no matter what happens, remember that we're all part of a big, wonderful world with endless possibilities. There's so much to learn, so many new friends to make, and so many adventures waiting just around the corner. So let's step into the new year with big smiles and open hearts, ready to make it the best one yet. Happy New Year, Merry Christmas, and here's to a fantastic journey ahead!

The Doctor Game Who Has the Most Dangerous Job?

By Common Sense Health – W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford We often advise readers not to be foolish – not with your health, money, relationships, or other vital aspects of life. Some risks are unavoidable, like crossing a busy intersection. Yet there’s little sense in choosing a career as a test pilot if you want to live to 100. Now, new research suggests we might have that wrong. Dangerous jobs with a high safety conscious may be the better bet! What are some of the most dangerous jobs? Ambulance workers are near the top of the list. People working at skiing facilities and correctional institutions are in the top ten. So are couriers and people in water transportation jobs. Leave it to personal injury lawyers to know the facts. What does one law firm say is the most dangerous profession? To our great surprise, veterinarians claim the title for the most dangerous job in North America! But how could Fido, who loves you more than you love yourself, and who would never betray you, be such a hazard? We should have given it more thought. Fido has sharp teeth and a powerful jaw. Inserting a needle can unleash these weapons. Woe be the veterinarian working on larger, more unpredictable animals. A study by the US National Institutes of Health found that over half of veterinarians in a two-year period reported work-related injuries, with nearly eight percent requiring hospitalization. Animal-inflicted injuries are a risk of the job, but there is more trouble in the profession. It is a sad fact that veterinarians, who give new life to animals in distress, are two and a half times more likely than the general public to die by suicide. The organization, Not One More Vet, reports that one in ten have contemplated suicide. In the U.K., a study found nearly 70% of vets have lost a colleague to suicide. In Australia, sixty percent of vets have sought professional help with their mental wellbeing. What’s driving these horrendous statistics? The industry, it seems, has some issues. Vets can often work 12-hour shifts, frequently responding to emergencies at all hours and lacking the back-up support of other medical professions. Building a practice can involve years of low earnings. It’s physically demanding work, with long hours standing and restraining agitated animals. Even if the animals behave, human clients can be abusive, contributing to chronic stress on the job. Vets also risk exposure to waste anesthetic gases, radiation, and airborne contaminants. They see plenty of close-up work with infections. There’s another cruel irony. It’s exhausting to get into the profession. Would-be vets need to be academic superstars and ruthless competitors in the high-stakes quest for a position in veterinary schools. If lucky enough to get in, they can count on spending a lot of money in tuition. In California, a proposed bill would allow vets to initiate care for animals using telehealth. There are fierce debates about the merits of such an approach. But for the sick or injured dog who needs a consultation but would prefer death than a visit to the vet’s clinic, this might be a sensible solution. Plus, Fido won’t bite a computer monitor. Will it lead to inappropriate treatments and medication for pets? Will it ease the burdens of driving animals to clinics for minor problems? This remains to be seen. But it sounds like good common sense to us. Regarding career choices, what should we advise the people we love? Accountants take the prize for the job with the lowest risk of injury. Number crunching might not be sexy, but it is, apparently, safe. 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

There Is a Way to Beat an Employer’s ATS

By Nick Kossovan Every job seeker I meet frets over how to beat an employer's applicant tracking system (ATS), the software practically every employer uses to collect, scan, and rank applications. Essentially, ATS is a digital filing cabinet. Assume you are applying for a tax manager position. Your resume summary reads: "Highly driven tax manager with 5+ years of financial experience managing tax returns and affairs. Proven experience of success, employer satisfaction, and strong communication skills." ATS reads: · "Tax manager" · "Financial experience" · "5+ years of experience" · "Tax returns" · "Strong communication skills" The ATS then compares your summary and the rest of your resume against the requirements the employer has programmed. · CHECK: Tax manager · CHECK: 5+ years of experience · CHECK: Communication skills · NOT CHECKED: Analytical skills · NOT CHECKED: Microsoft Office. At the risk of stating the obvious, an employer programs their ATS as per their requirement; hence, ATSs do not function alike. Internet talking heads will tell you they possess the secret to creating an "ATS-friendly" resume that will beat an employer's ATS and that the ATS is the boogie man. These claims are marketing fiction. While you can optimize your resume to be ATS-friendly, beating, or tricking, the ATS is impossible. Job seekers should focus less on beating an employer's ATS and more on getting their resume in front of hiring managers. In other words, consider circumventing an employer's ATS rather than trying to beat it. Years ago, I was job hunting after returning from India, where I had completed two lengthy call center management assignments. Although ATS existed, it was not as widely used as today. I came across a job posting on Monster.com, which fit me to a tee. I thought to myself, "This has my name on it." I sent my resume, which I customized, along with what I thought was a well-written cover letter. The job posting was blind; therefore, I had no idea who the company was. All I knew was that it was a travel company with an extensive global footprint searching for a call centre manager to oversee their newly created inbound call centre. A week passed without a response, not even an acknowledgement of my resume having been received. I applied again. Again, crickets. In the meantime, thanks to my professional network, which I maintained throughout my time in India and informed of my return to Toronto, I had been conducting interviews and was close to receiving job offers. However, I wanted to learn more about the travel company's call center management job before making a decision. I wanted to reach out to the company, but I had no clue who the company was. As I had anticipated, a telco company I had been interviewing with made me a job offer. I discussed the job offer with my wife over dinner. I also mentioned having applied to the travel company and how surprised I was that I had not heard back from them, and since the job posting was blind, I could not reach out to them. That evening, the planets were aligned. My wife, who is well-connected and often "hears things," had a gut feeling about who the company might be. My wife's gut feeling led me to reach out to the president of the travel company that "may have" placed the blind job posting. The next day, I received a call from the president. It turned out my wife was right. We talked, then met, followed by a meeting with the leadership team, ultimately resulting in a job offer and an eight-year run managing the company's 85-agent call centre. Just as you will never know why an employer's ATS did not green-light your resume, I never found out why the HR Manager did not pass on my resume. Although I did not work around the company's ATS, which they did not have at the time, I did work around its human equivalent—human resources. Though my bypassing the HR manager (READ: going over her head) worked, it came at a cost, namely a strained relationship. Another workaround story... This past August, a close friend lost his job due to a merger and was job hunting for the first time in over 20 years. On LinkedIn, he saw a job posting, not blind, for a project manager position at a large consumer electronics company, which he was more than qualified for. Applicants were instructed to apply via the company's website, which meant resumes would be vetted by their ATS. I advised my friend to ignore this instruction and to contact the hiring manager directly, which he did. The hiring manager was unusually candid with my friend and said, "Thanks for saving me the time not having to go through resumes." Understand (READ: empathize with) that the hiring manager still needs to review the resumes that have passed the ATS screening, which can still be overwhelming. Therefore, in a way, applying directly to the hiring manager can be thought of as doing them a favour. Yes, my friend got the job. Going head-to-head with an employer's ATS is futile. However, if you feel you must beat the employer's ATS, then adopt a workaround approach. __________________________________________________________________________ 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

Hello 2024

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 or Sorrow. - ONE DAY AT A TIME - As 2023 comes to a closing. I like to thank all our columnist, associates, reporters, journalist, contributors, advertisers, investors, carriers and countless volunteers. My staff and all contractors, sub contractors and creative engineers, consultants, supporters. Most importantly you the reader. Without you the reader. We would not have a paper. The Central is now entering 29 years of serving Durham Region. Based out of Oshawa. Our mission has not changed. Never be compromised, influenced and or bought. Our policy is to work with everyone and deliver the news based on facts and the truth. This approach at times have made us less than popular. We, are not in a popularity business. We are in the publishing business. At the Central we take great pride in today being number one across the Region. The Central must be doing something right!!! I remember the many critics that would pass judgement without understanding. For those of character that would come in and meet me in person. Would leave with a sense of understand and refresh perspective. The Central is about serving the community. About bring you the news without political or hidden agenda. You care about your community. We want to hear from you. We want to work for you. As it stand we have offered every councillor and Mayor across the Durham Region the opportunity to become a columnist. Free of charge. Hopefully in 2024 we will see who takes advantage of this great offer to keep you informed. Right from their desk. Community leadership is more than winning and election. It is about keeping constituents informed and represented. What are we looking forward in 2024? Great things once again. We are looking forward to having a full roster of columnist. We are looking at having a page for every municipality. A way to unite the community by having them get the local paper and keep it in their homes. No one is going to check on line or visit complicated web pages. People are to busy. People want it on their coffee tables on their dinner table. In the new year we are looking at expanding the page count. Expanding our covarage and the hiring of former Metroland Journalist. The electronic media does not work. It may be cheap, but you get what you paid for. Happy New Year.

Nothing and Nobody will erase “Christmas” from this holiday

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East It’s Christmas time again! This year, with many of the stresses of COVID behind us, we should be able to enjoy a more convivial Christmas time, redolent of the spirit of Christmas. Unfortunately, economic hardships are on the rise, and they point to a challenging new year to come. In addition, the instability of the world today, with dangerous developments percolating, does not bode well for the future, either. However, none of this changes the importance or the meaning of Christmas, or its message of peace, love and goodwill. Christmas is Christmas, and people will find a way to celebrate it no matter what restrictions are imposed upon them. Not even The Canadian Human Rights Commission, which wields broad quasi-judicial powers, will be able to challenge the celebration of Christmas. They argued that an official day off to celebrate Christmas is 'discriminatory'. This quasi woke organization that is fully funded by the federal government, has declared that the celebration of Christmas is evidence of Canada’s “colonialist” religious intolerance. I cannot help wondering who these people are and who appointed them to wipe out our basic heritage on taxpayers’ money. This brazen attack on our history and traditions is an outrageous use of our own hard-earned tax dollars against us. “Discrimination against religious minorities in Canada is grounded in Canada’s history of colonialism,” reads a Discussion Paper on Religious Intolerance recently published by the agency. “An obvious example is statutory holidays in Canada,” it adds, noting that the Christian holidays of Christmas and Easter get days off, while non-Christians have to “request special accommodations to observe their holy days.” The essence of the paper is that Canada is replete with religious intolerance and always has been. “In order to move forward towards sustainable change, all Canadians must first acknowledge Canada’s history of religious intolerance,” it reads. It seems quite clear that in the agency’s view, we, as Canadians, need to be selective about our history and brainwashed into praising futuristic globalist values. Canada welcomes newcomers and cultures from around the world. Its reputation for stability and tolerance makes it a popular destination for those considering a fresh start in a new country. It would be nice to maintain this status in the years to come without denying our history and destroying our own heritage. Even with the growing number of immigrants in Canada, Canadians tend to observe holidays and traditions based on those of the founders of our country, who were mostly French and British settlers. These traditions are often rooted in Christian beliefs and Christmas day is arguably the most observed holiday of the year. Christmas began as, and for millions around the globe still is, a religious holiday in the Christian faith that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. For those who are not of the Christian faith, it is a time to enjoy a spirit of giving and good cheer as the community celebrates. Regardless of religious beliefs, over half of Canadians celebrate Christmas as a completely secular holiday; an occasion to spend time with friends and family. Whether religious observance is part of the day or not, there are many long-standing Christmas traditions that everyone can enjoy. That brings me once again to the need to remind people that it is Christmas time, not “Merry and Bright” season and not “Generic Happy Holiday Time.” It is Christmas, and the greeting during this season, if you want to acknowledge reality, should be “Merry Christmas”. The war on Christmas, which reached its zenith a few years ago, but continues to rage amongst those who have a self-hating compulsion against their own society and culture, has failed to erase Christmas and the beautiful greeting of “Merry Christmas.” It will continue to fail because Canadians know who they are, and understand that the Christmas season and “Merry Christmas” are part of being Canadian. A generic seasonal celebration will not now, or ever, replace that. In conclusion, current social trends, aimed at erasing historical realities and traditions, savour strongly of globalist socialist strategies and pseudo-Marxist philosophies. The bitterness some show toward the Christmas season is skewed and out of touch with the feelings of the majority of Canadians who love Christmas. Therefore, I wish you all, a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May this be a happy, healthy and meaningful holiday season for everyone!

GAMES POLITICIAN PLAY

Games Politicians Play Politics is often regarded as a serious business, where elected officials work diligently to address the needs and concerns of their constituents. However, behind closed doors, there is a different game being played. I would like to shed a little light on how to recognize these behaviors to ensure transparency and accountability in our political system. One unfortunate game politicians play is dismissing delegates by not paying attention to them during meetings. I’ve witnessed many politicians so engrossed in their phones exchanging text messages with friends or fellow council members, that they neglect the pressing concerns and questions raised by the public standing before them. There are also council members who prioritize their own interests, such as sporting events, over the heartfelt pleas for help from certain delegates. Then when a delegate astutely points out the politician's distractions, it is regrettable to observe the politician resorting to falsehoods by claiming to be engaging with other constituents. Some take solace in deceit. Such disingenuous behavior undermines the fundamental principles of transparency and integrity that should guide our political discourse. Drawing further from my personal experiences, I have been witnessing politicians making disheartening derogatory comments about delegates and/or fellow council members. Laughing at them behind closed doors, or sometimes right in front of them where only few can hear, labeling them as crazies, or participating in patronizing behavior by talking down to members of the council and dismissively saying you’re kidding me, when wanting to ask delegates questions. Then there is the rolling of their eyes when asked serious questions, or disallowance to ask any more questions, which demonstrates a lack of respect and professionalism. Such behavior fosters a toxic work environment and undermines the integrity of the political process. I believe that one needs to foster meaningful and respectful conversations. This should be the backbone of effective governance. However, some politicians engage in behind-the-scenes talks where they criticize and belittle other council members or members of the community, simply because they persevere in their quest to make change. Amidst differing views, it is essential that every voice, even those unpopular with elected officials, is elegantly acknowledged and respected. They should not be unjustly denied well-deserved awards due to the vindictive actions of politicians, undermining their perseverance and accomplishments. In the age of digital media, politicians have found new ways to manipulate information. Cropping names and documents or editing photos to make it appear as if certain individuals have not attended events is a deceptive tactic used to shape public perception. This game of altering facts undermines transparency and the public's trust in their elected representatives. Another frustrating game politicians play is the misuse of taxpayers' dollars on unnecessary and wasteful spending. Instead of prioritizing the needs of the community, some politicians prioritize their own interests or pet projects. This misuse of public funds not only drains resources but also neglects those who are most in need, and rather than addressing the matter directly, many politicians and staff excel and have honed in on their skills of redirecting the conversation towards answering a completely different question other than the one that was posed. Other times they may only provide you with partial truths leaving the central concern unanswered. This tactic creates a sense of confusion and frustration, as the focus has now shifted away from the core issue – the misuse of public funds. This doublespeak raises serious doubts about the commitment of politicians and staff to transparency and accountability. It is high time to demand better from our elected officials. Hold them accountable for their actions. Demand open dialogue, and actively participate in the political process. Let’s strive for a more ethical and effective governance system. I always say “Empower The People, Ignite Change” and together, we can create a political culture that values the needs of the people over personal gain or political gamesmanship. "Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head-On And Rise Above It"

Setting the Record Straight: The Importance of Expertise in Committee Selection

As a City Councillor, I must address a concerning issue that arose during our recent council meeting on Monday, December 11th. Our Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) referred to individuals volunteering on our committees, labeling them as experts. However, the truth is, sometimes decisions are made without receiving resumes, nor are we given the opportunity to meet these individuals. In my personal opinion, it is evident that many of them lack the necessary expertise and/or qualifications. We must acknowledge the gravity of this situation. Calling these individuals experts during the meeting is a great disservice to the truth and undermines the integrity of our decision-making process. During my tenure as your City Councillor, I have experienced first hand the pressure to select certain individuals based on recommendations from staff members and biased relationships of Council members. This undermines the fair and objective nature of committee selection. Transparency and accountability are fundamental principles guiding our actions as public servants and I believe we must work on establishing a more robust and unbiased process for committee selection. It is essential. We must ensure that the individuals we choose, possess the expertise and qualifications required to make informed decisions that benefit our community. The term "expert" holds significant weight, and it is imperative that we use it judiciously. An expert is someone who possesses specialized knowledge, skills, and experience in a particular field. Merely being a volunteer or having personal connections should not automatically grant someone the title of an expert. Moving forward, I would like to see Council reevaluate our committee selection process. Basing the process on merit, qualifications, and a thorough assessment of an individual's expertise in the relevant area. This will help restore the public's trust in our decision-making process and ensure that our committees are composed of individuals who can truly contribute their expertise. I urge the Mayor and my fellow City Councillors to join me in demanding a fair and transparent committee selection process. It’s time we prioritize the qualifications and expertise of potential committee members over personal biases or friendships. By doing so, we can uphold the integrity of our council and better serve the needs of our community. If not, then let’s be mindful of the importance of language and its impact on perception. By refraining from using the term “expert” loosely, then we can avoid misleading our constituents and maintain a clear understanding of the qualifications and expertise that committee members bring to the table. Let’s be accurate in our communication. "Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head-On And Rise Above It"

LOOK INSIDE THE PROCESS

LETS TALK BUDGET A

By Maurice Brenner Deputy Mayor/Regional Councillor Ward 1 Pickering Pickering is preparing its 2024 budget under the Strong Mayor’s Powers granted by the Provincial Government. Todays column will provide an inside look at how the Budget is being created and the why the Public’s input is so important. Before getting into the details, I want to make it very clear that I DO NOT SUPPORT THE GRANTING OF STRONG MAYORS POWERS as I see it as an erosion of the role of elected Councillors. That said, until the Province reverses the Legislation that granted it,( topic for another day) it is my role to do the best I can to find ways to ensure the voices of the Public are heard on all Municipal matters such as the setting of the Budget. NEW THIS YEAR This is the first year that the Pickering Budget will be prepared under the Strong Mayor's Power which is why Public input to the Mayor is so important. City Staff are currently working with the Mayor and will forward it to each member of Council the Mayor’s Budget both Capital and Operating for review. At that point I along with my colleagues will have the opportunity to challenge the Budget on a line by line basis and provide suggestions to the Mayor. These challenges however are not binding to the Mayor however it is an opportunity to try to convince the Mayor to re-consider. WHY IS COMMUNITY INPUT SO IMPORTANT Pickering is a thriving city thanks to the residents and businesses who choose to live, work, and invest here. A budget not only sets your Property Tax, but also puts in place the individual business plans of every department which translates into the services and new infrastructure you can expect for 2024. TIME LINES The commenting period closes at midnight, Thursday, January 4, 2024. Input received will be provided to the City's Director, Finance & Treasurer, and Mayor Ashe for consideration when presenting the Mayor’s 2024 Capital and Current Budgets by January 30, 2024. Councillors get the Budget at the same time the Public gets it. VIRTUAL PUBLIC INPUT Members of the Public can tune in for a virtual presentation and Q&A on the Recommended Draft 2024 Capital Budget highlights, with City of Pickering Director, Finance & Treasurer. Residents can tune in and leave their questions on the comments thread or email their questions in advance to socialmedia@pickering.ca. Location: Facebook.com/CityofPickering or YouTube.com/CityofPickering Date/Time: Thursday, January 4, 2024 - 7 pm to 8 pm WARD 1 & 2 COMMUNITY TOWN HALL Ward 2 Councillors Linda Cook (Regional), Mara Nagy (City) along with myself are planning to host a joint Ward 1 and 2 Community Town Hall meeting Monday January 15th 7:00PM, at the Westshore Community Centre. This will be an opportunity for residents to learn more about the Capital Infrastructure being planned as part of the proposed Capital Budget as well as a dialog with residents on items that are important to them. (Watch for more details) CAPITAL BUDGET FORECAST; The Senior Staff Recommended Draft 2024 Capital Budget and 2025-2027 Capital Forecast is available for viewing online, with the option to reach the Finance Department directly through budget@pickering.ca. Residents can visit Let’sTalkPickering.ca/Budget to view this document, get a better understanding of the cost of capital infrastructure and where property taxes go, watch a video overview of the City’s key infrastructure projects, and share budget priorities for Pickering’s future.

Merry Christmas

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 or Sorrow. - ONE DAY AT A TIME - There is no other time of the year like Christmas. A time to reflect on what makes life great. Remember sacrifices and wait for a new beginning to unfold before your eyes with new years soon coming. The anticipation of Christmas is like no other. Young and old can’t wait to see what life will bring. In the season of celebration with family and friends. Here at the Central Newspaper. We like to thank the many contributors, associates and people of interest. This includes our investors, supporters, readers, columnist, advertisers, readers, employees, contractors and our staff. Without everyone's contributions, we would not be able to bring you this great award winning newspaper. It took us 28 years to achieve number one status. We, thanks to you we did it. We survived many pitfalls. Many challenges from all angles. Even today we face many challenges from groups and organization that should be supporting us and joining our success. As the new year rolls in. We are already planning on overcoming obstacle and once again lead by example. I remember our first few years. The criticism, the challenges we met as we dealt with the competition. Our biggest obstacle was to set our pace apart from the competition. To carve our own way. This created a clear non-contractual agreement between Metroland and the Central. This move is what made us survive tidal waves of tidal waves of controversy and challenges. Competitors came and went one after the other. They failed to recognize the importance of respect and integrity. The publishing industry is very controlled and very well safe guarded. The bigger you are the more control you have. Any challengers are quickly dismantled through various tactics. Tactics like the control of advertisers, news items and access to the presses. This is in part why all competitors have failed. At the Central today we are the local, regional newspaper. We have the experience, the proven track record. This Christmas we celebrate for the community at large. Rejoice in the season. Merry Christmas to all...

The rise of crime in Canada

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East According to Statistics Canada, Canada's Crime Severity Index (CSI) increased by 4.3 percent in 2023. The violent CSI increased by 4.6 percent, and the non-violent CSI increased by 4.1 percent. These indices have been on the rise since 2014, except for a drop during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the first months of 2023, skyrocketing violent crime is the new reality in every Canadian time zone. In Saskatchewan, First Nations leaders are sounding the alarm on a “crisis” of on-reserve violence. Newfoundland and Labrador is coping with a 20 per cent increase in violent crime severity. In the Yukon Territory, politicians and RCMP officials are reporting crime that is both “more intense” and “increasing dramatically.” A new survey published recently by the Leger and the Association for Canadian Studies found that two thirds of Canadians believe violent crime is visibly worse than it was before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Of respondents, one fifth said they had feared for their safety in the last six months. One in every 20 said they had been personally assaulted. On top of this trend, according to a recent federal report, Crime groups are slowly gaining influence in government agencies. Recent information from the Toronto police says they have arrested seven people in connection with a suspected auto theft ring in which the accused were allegedly conspiring with Service Ontario employees. "As the project progressed, investigators learned that suspects were conspiring with employees at Service Ontario, who were trafficking in driving and vehicle data taken from the Ministry of Transportation database," police said in the release. Police also said that they seized about $1.5 million in proceeds of crime as part of the investigation by the service's major crime unit. The proceeds included numerous luxury vehicles and hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash. According to police, employees at Service Ontario would provide the accused with information about vehicles and drivers, including their addresses. Police alleged that the accused would then steal the vehicles. Service Ontario employees would also provide the accused with fraudulent vehicle registrations and vehicle identification numbers (VIN), police said. Investigators say the accused would place the fraudulent vehicle identification numbers on the stolen vehicles, in a process known as "re-vinning”, to appear legitimate. The fraudulent numbers were linked to the fraudulent registrations, police said. "The vehicles were then sold domestically, to unsuspecting buyers, as used vehicles, or were used to commit other crimes," a press release said. Officers executed 25 search warrants between July and October at residences, commercial garages, Service Ontario branches and vehicles. “Investigators located and recovered several stolen and re-vined vehicles in addition to equipment, tools and electronics utilized by the accused to facilitate the theft of motor vehicles. The search warrants also revealed that the number of people who had their data trafficked by the accused were in the hundreds," police said. However, this event is only the tip of the iceberg. In recent years, the weakening of the quality of public service has made it a fertile ground for various crime groups to profit. Organized crime groups are attempting to “infiltrate” government agencies and departments, a report obtained by Global News suggests. The Criminal Intelligence Service Canada (CISC) reported in 2022 that 29 organized crime groups reportedly have “influence and access” within the public sector, while at least 369 groups are believed to be trying to gain a toehold in government. The “infiltration” is primarily taking place within local and “regional” governments, the CISC suggests, and groups “may be using the benefits of this access for interprovincial or international criminal activities.” Last month, the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP) noted that criminal and extremist groups have attempted to join Canadian law enforcement and security agencies, and suggested some have been successful. The RCMP consider 14 organized crime groups operating in Canada to be a serious threat, the NSICOP report read, who commit a “range of serious crimes” including infiltrating “police and security agencies.” Those 14 “high-level threats” are operating in four provinces, the CISC report reveals: Ontario (6), Quebec (3), British Columbia (4) and Alberta (1). Moreover, where organized crime groups’ motivation is ultimately profit, extremist infiltration has more sinister intentions: access to training, tactics, equipment and weaponry. Despite these revelations, there seems to be little appetite, (or is it lack of interest?) on the part of the Canadian political establishment, to deal with this very dangerous trend. Instead of being tough on crime, it seems that the Canadian judicial system has become complacent. It is not rooting out the causes which are creating this rise in criminality or the intent of it, in Canadian society. The crime rise in our cities and towns is a concern that should not be ignored until it is too late. Otherwise, we will see a degradation in our quality of life that is already quite clear in our neighbor to the south. NOW is the time to act for the benefit of our citizens, so we can continue to enjoy a safe life with our families. Are the politicians listening? Make them do so.

Nick, What Do You Look for in a Resume?

By Nick Kossovan My first The Art of Finding Work column, back on January 11, 2021, was titled There's No Universal Hiring Methodology. I pointed out that every hiring manager, each a unique individual, evaluates candidates differently; hence, what I look for in a candidate's resume will understandably differ from what other hiring managers look for. Picture yourself in a bookstore, having picked up a book and flipping through it to see if it is a book you will want to spend time reading. To decide if I want to take the time to read a candidate's resume in-depth, I spend between 10-20 seconds skimming it, searching for what I believe every recruiter and hiring manager looks for; evidence the candidate has contributed positively to their previous employers (revenue generated, savings, efficiency improvements, percentage increases or decreases) and not just maintained the status quo. The adage, "There is beauty in simplicity," certainly applies to resumes. Stylish layout, fancy fonts, and opinion statements (e.g., "I'm a team player," "I pay attention to details." Unless your claim is quantified, it is just your opinion.) do not trump a candidate who showcases their results. When reviewing a resume, I am looking for a career story showing how the candidate contributed to their employer's business and how they manage their career—their commitment to their career, their desire to improve themselves, and their progress. When writing your resume, you cannot go wrong keeping the following in mind: A great resume frames the candidate's career story and how their accomplishments were an asset to your employer's business. The same applies to your LinkedIn profile, where you have much more room and options (upload projects, videos, articles) to tell your career story. Getting back to my skimming resumes; in an ideal world, recruiters and hiring managers would spend five to ten minutes reviewing the resumes they receive. We do not live in an ideal world. A hiring manager has only so many hours in a day to review hundreds of resumes, which their applicant tracking system (ATS) has passed on, hoping to find a few qualified candidates. Like most hiring managers, I do not have the luxury of time; thus, I skim resumes to make my initial "yes/no" decision. A skimmable resume, an important factor seldom mentioned by self-proclaiming "experts," along with the right content, is most likely to catch my attention. You can make your resume skimmable by: · Not centring or justifying any of your text. · Left-align dates and locations. · Maintaining consistency in font size (10-12) and type (Arial or Times New Roman). · Bolding either your roles or your companies, not both. · When writing numbers, use digits. · Maximizing the first five words of your bullet points. · Having a separate "Skills" section. I will not read a resume if there is no link to the candidate's LinkedIn profile, which should appear beneath their contact information. I find the lack of a LinkedIn profile link suspicious, as if they are hiding something. Every job seeker on the planet knows that in addition to reviewing their resume, the hiring manager will scrutinize their LinkedIn profile and digital footprint to evaluate whether they are interview-worthy, so include a link to your LinkedIn profile to make it easy for the reader. Typos, spelling mistakes, and grammatical errors turn me off. Unless the content (READ: quantified results, skills) is exceptional, if there are more than two errors, I will reject the resume. Given that a resume is crucial job search document, I do not think it is unreasonable to ask that it be error-free. There you have it, a resume that will most likely lead me to call the candidate will have what I am primarily looking for: · A LinkedIn profile link · Results (numbers) · A career story · Error-free Skimmable resumes get extra points. Now you know what I look for in a resume. However, there is a caveat, a candidate must include a customized cover letter to get me to read their resume. A candidate's cover letter is more important to me than their resume; therefore, I only read resumes accompanied by a cover letter. Why? Based on my experience, if the candidate did not take the time to write a cover letter tailored to the position, they are likely spraying and praying, which, unfortunately, is a common job search strategy. Job seekers who spray and pray just want any job, which is not appealing to me. A cover letter also helps me decide whether to read a candidate's resume by: · Allowing me to evaluate their writing skills. ("People who think well, write well." - David Ogilvy, Ad Executive) · Seeing if they have the professional acumen to explain any employment gaps. · Assessing their ability to sell me on how their skills and experience align with the job requirements. I believe I speak for all hiring managers when I say the importance of your resume presentation and content cannot be overemphasized. Do not, however, underestimate the power of a customized cover letter. Still, even if your cover letter convinces me to read your resume, if it does not contain the aforementioned, I am looking for, then... next! _____________________________________________________________________ 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

Support Your Local Sports in Oshawa and the Durham Region

By Dale Jodoin In the bustling city of Oshawa and the wider Durham region, there's a vibrant world of local sports that offers not just entertainment, but also a way to connect with the community and support local talent. From the spirited games of Ontario Tech University's Ridgebacks to the thrilling local wrestling matches, there's a wealth of sporting activities that cater to all ages. The Ridgebacks: A Source of Local Pride Ontario Tech University's sports teams, known as the Ridgebacks, are a cornerstone of Oshawa's sporting scene. They compete in various sports, including hockey, soccer, and more, providing an exciting and affordable option for family entertainment. Attending a Ridgebacks game is not just about watching a sport; it's an experience that brings together students, families, and sports enthusiasts in a shared passion for the game. Local Wrestling: An Exciting Alternative Apart from university sports, the local wrestling scene in Oshawa and Durham region is a hidden gem. These events, often characterized by their high energy and captivating matches, offer a unique and affordable way to spend an evening. For about $20, you can dive into the world of wrestling, cheering on local athletes as they compete with skill and determination. More Than Just Games: The Community Impact Supporting local sports in Oshawa and the Durham region goes beyond the thrill of the game. It's about contributing to the local economy and fostering a sense of community. Every ticket purchased, every snack bought at a game, helps support the local sports infrastructure, from the teams to the venues. This cycle of support is crucial for the growth and sustainability of local sports. Other Sports to Explore The sporting landscape in Oshawa and Durham is diverse. Depending on the season, you could find yourself at a cricket match, a football game, or enjoying other athletic events. These sports not only provide variety but also reflect the rich cultural tapestry of the region. They offer a chance for different communities to showcase their talents and for spectators to learn about and enjoy a variety of sports. Family-Friendly and Accessible One of the best aspects of local sports in this region is their family-friendly nature. These events offer a safe and exciting environment for children and adults alike, making them perfect for a family outing. The affordable pricing also means that a family can enjoy a day or evening out without the burden of high costs typically associated with professional sporting events. The Role of Schools and Community Centers Schools and community centers in Oshawa and the Durham region also play a vital role in promoting local sports. They often host games and events, providing platforms for young athletes to showcase their skills and for the community to gather in support. These institutions are instrumental in nurturing future talent and in creating a supportive environment for sports at the grassroots level. Volunteering and Participation For those looking to get more involved, local sports organizations often welcome volunteers. Whether it's helping at events, coaching, or providing logistical support, there are numerous opportunities to contribute. Volunteering not only helps the sports community but also offers a chance to learn new skills, meet new people, and be an active part of the community. Conclusion: A Call to Action In conclusion, supporting local sports in Oshawa and the Durham region is about much more than just watching games. It's an investment in the community, a celebration of local talent, and a commitment to keeping sports accessible and enjoyable for all. By attending local sports events, you are not only guaranteed an affordable and enjoyable experience but are also contributing to the vitality and spirit of your community. So, take the opportunity to explore the rich and diverse sports scene in your region – it's a decision that benefits everyone involved.

Duplicity

from Wayne & Tamara We’ve been married 20 years. In order to spice up our sex life, we would occasionally share fantasies, and one that seemed to turn us both on involved my wife with me and another man. This remained a fantasy until recently, when we had drinks with a photographer who specializes in “boudoir photography.” Probably as a result of too much wine, I asked if he would take photos of my wife, and he agreed. On the day of the photo session, my wife asked me what she should do as she was nervous. I conveyed to her she was to lose her inhibitions and enjoy the experience. The shoot took place at midday, and I could not be there. Afterwards, she told me the photo session had been a success. She and the photographer shared a bottle of wine, and in the course of the session she’d learned much about posing properly. She went on to say she and the photographer participated in a whole gamut of sex acts she really enjoyed, since he had unlimited stamina. She said she hoped I felt good since she had gone along with it for me. She says she loves me more than ever and will never do this again. Her subsequent actions support this. Although I helped to arrange it, I am unable to stop thinking about the whole episode. I want to get over it and move on, but I’m losing sleep big time. John John, in one of Mozart’s operas, an older man bets two younger ones their sweethearts are fickle. As part of the bet, the two younger men are to pretend to be called away, then return in disguise and try to seduce the women. The older man is confident the women will not be faithful; the young men are equally confident they will be. While the plot is hokey, it flirts with a great truth. Our deepest desire is for someone who wants only us. What you really want is for your wife to say and mean, “You are the only one I could ever make love to.” That is the sexier thing and the deeper desire. You didn’t understand your sexual fantasy would override your deeper desire. In your head, you controlled the outcome. In actuality, you controlled nothing. You didn’t fantasize your feelings would turn out like this. But in the letters we receive, one or both parties are always revolted by the outcome. Your wife was not true to your fantasy. You weren’t there, and that is why you feel she is mollifying you. But even if you had been there, your feelings would likely be the same. We never, ever, recommend intimate relationships with more than one person. In the letters we receive, the outcome is always what you describe. Wayne & Tamara Diminished Capacity Last month, my boyfriend of eight years and I hosted a party. After I was completely and utterly drunk, my boyfriend and best friend took me into the bedroom with plans to have a threesome. We discussed this before, but not thoroughly. My somewhat sober boyfriend had sex with her. Apparently (I don’t remember much) I approved. Now I am heartbroken. Everything that was so special between us is gone. I look at him with disgust because of the things they did. I am so ashamed this happened. I don’t know if I’ll ever get over this. Audra Audra, we get more letters about sexual jealousy than about any other topic. This is the most intimate act you can do with another person. Most people cannot tolerate even the suggestion there is someone else in their partner’s life. The third, fourth, fifth, or sixteenth person in an intimate relationship dilutes and devalues the relationship. When the relationship is no longer mutually exclusive, the boundaries are lost, and usually, so is the relationship. Wayne & Tamara Wayne SEND LETTERS TO: Directanswers@WayneAndTamara.com

Heart Disease Prevention Begins with Children and Good Parenting

By Common Sense Health – W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford Heart disease is called the “silent killer”. Why? Because the first symptom can be a fatal attack. Most people lead their lives unaware of the ticking time bomb within, neglecting lifestyle changes that could radically reduce the risk. The fact is, preventing heart disease needs to be a lifelong practice, starting in childhood. Pediatric cardiologists and researchers who focus on identifying and mitigating risk factors for cardiovascular disease in children and young adults are proving the case. Studies show that obese children have higher levels of insulin resistance and inflammation than their non-obese peers, both of which are known risk factors for heart disease. Obese children also have stiffer arteries, which can lead to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems. But heart health among children can begin even earlier in their lives, including before birth. Long before childhood obesity becomes a risk factor for heart disease, low birth weight, maternal smoking during pregnancy, and childhood exposure to environmental toxins are a concern. In one study, children who were exposed to second-hand smoke had higher levels of atherosclerosis, or the buildup of plaque in the arteries associated with cardiovascular disease, than children who were not exposed. The list of health problems caused by second-hand smoke is already a mile long. Adding increased risk of cardiovascular disease for children may not get the headlines this research finding deserves. But any adult neglecting to keep kids safe from smoke is guilty of the kind of child abuse that lasts a lifetime. Cholesterol is another common consideration in cardiovascular disease. While cholesterol is often associated with older adults, it is also an important factor in the development of heart disease in children and young adults. In another study, researchers found that children and young adults with elevated levels of LDL cholesterol, or "bad" cholesterol, were more likely to develop atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular problems. They also found that reducing LDL cholesterol levels through diet and medication can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. There are important implications of this research for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease in children and young adults. By identifying and mitigating risk factors early in life, it may be possible to prevent the development of heart disease later on. To combat childhood obesity, the recommendation is a multifaceted approach that includes healthy eating, regular exercise, avoiding exposure to environmental toxins such as second-hand smoke, and behavioral interventions, with an emphasis on starting early. But there are a few fundamental problems. One, infants and young children have no capacity to lobby for their health. They are utterly dependent on their caregivers and the environment in which they live. Two, young people tend to feel immortal. They willfully indulge in high levels of risk. Three, by the time mid-life arrives, it’s often too late to erase the cumulative negative health impacts of poor lifestyle. So for loving parents and grandparents everywhere: what might be the best birthday and holiday gifts for the youngsters in your family? Skip the sugary soft drinks, cakes and ice cream. Instead, make a photograph album of healthy, active centenarians and include the recipe for how to make it to 100+. There is an abundance of Gifford-Jones articles that could be included too – available at www.docgiff.com – arguably the best free advice of all! But we shouldn’t be making light of the situation. Here in North America, and sadly around the world too, we are currently getting this one very wrong. Make no mistake about it, global childhood obesity rates are on the rise. 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

Statement from Mayor Adrian Foster on 2024-2027 budget

Mayor Adrian Foster By Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster

Clarington, Ontario – Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster has issued the following statement on the Municipality’s first multi-year budget. “I want to make something very clear: Clarington residents are getting a good deal on their property taxes. Compared to other nearby municipalities, Clarington has provided, and continues to provide, similar services at a significantly lower cost to the taxpayers. Earlier this week, Clarington’s first four-year budget was adopted. I believe it is important to clarify how these figures impact your property tax bill. Clarington’s budget increase translates to about $67 per year for the average household. Clarington’s annual budget increase will be 4.2 per cent, on average, per year from 2024 to 2027. The 4.2 per cent is the annual increase to Clarington’s total municipal budget, not your individual property tax bill. Clarington’s portion of your tax bill is about one-third of the total amount you pay. Clarington’s budget increase will result in a 1.5 per cent increase to your total property tax bill, or $67 more a year for the average home. The Region of Durham, which will also impact your tax bill, has yet to pass their budget. If we compare to our municipal neighbours, Oshawa's 2024 budget increase will result in approximately $82 more for Oshawa’s median house assessment value. In an effort to offer full transparency to our residents, we will compare and release the dollar amount increases between Clarington and other Durham municipalities as they set their 2024 budgets in the new year. Clarington now, and historically, has had amongst the lowest property taxes in Durham Region. Clarington is leading the way with a multi-year budget that provides residents stability and predictability over four years. I am confident that our budget will support and enhance the amazing quality of life we enjoy in our community, now and into the future.”

KEEPING YOU INFORMED

By Maurice Brenner Deputy Mayor/Regional Councillor Ward 1 Pickering Potential Crisis Faces Homeless and Food Deprive As Christmas is quickly coming, the needs of the Homeless and those that are food deprive could never be greater and once again Municipalities who are grass roots will need to find the funds to fill the financial voids. In Durham Region, data shows a 67 per cent increase in people experiencing unsheltered homelessness over the past year. Regional Staff have been meeting regularly with counterparts across the GTHA, sharing best practices and approaches to service delivery, and collaborate advocacy efforts for additional funding and policy changes at both the Provincial and Federal levels of Government. While funding announcements are appreciated, when you compare the reductions in funding compared to an increasing population that are and will experience homelessness, Municipalities will face a serious funding crisis that is not sustainable, with pressures increasing as Shelter Capacity decreases along with a lack of available affordable housing. A recent report presented to Durham Region Health and Social Services compared the current level of funding and how it will decrease by 2028. Based on current trends, the need will continue to increase while funding decreases and unless the Upper Tiers at the very least maintain current levels of funding, more and more will find themselves on the street which is why the Health and Social Services Committee past unanimously a motion to pressure both the Province and the Federal Government to reverse these reductions. Current Funding 2023-2024 - $4,956,872 New Allocations 2024-2025 - $ 4666,872 2025-2026 - $ 4666,872 2026-2027- $ 940,221 2027-2028 - $ 940,221 Side by side with the increasing numbers of those finding themselves homeless is the growing numbers of those who turn to Food banks. A snap shot of the City of Pickering and the St Paul’s On the Hill Food Bank, which like so many other Food Banks is a volunteer based organization who is struggling to keep up with demands. Over the past year demand for services has increased 41.63% as a result of an erosion of social support programs and the lack of affordable housing. From January 1st to November 30th 2023, they served 26,704 individuals including 9,298 children compared to 18,854 individuals for the same time period in 2022. On average each month 65 new families turn to the food bank with a majority family size of 6 or more. St Pauls on the Hill has reached out to Pickering and has requested emergency funding to get them through the Christmas Season with a $8763.52 financial support to cover the cost on increasing rent in the storage unit (4,511.27 of that amount will be used for rent cost for December and the other $4,252.2 will be used to purchase the milk and eggs distributed to our clients for December. The amount for the milk and eggs is based off November’s expense. While I am confident that this will be supported by Pickering Council, we will need to look at a more sustainable solution to ensure that no is food deprived not just in December but all year.

The dark side

The Dark Side of Universal Change Rooms: Safety, Voyeurism, and Mental Health Concerns “The current trend” of implementing universal change rooms in various provinces has sparked controversy and raised concerns over issues such as voyeurism, sexual assaults, and mental health. While the intention behind these inclusive spaces is commendable, it is essential to critically examine the unintended consequences and the impact they have on individuals, particularly children. The City of Pickering recently sent out a video via social media outlining all the reasons why they believe the Chestnut Hill Development Recreation Centre’s Universal Changeroom is, pardon the pun, fitting. The video mentions that the Universal change room uses signs posted in various areas, as a deterrent to remind people to keep clothes and bathing suits on at all times, notably while using the common area or the open stall showers. However, while signs serve as a visual reminder of expected behavior, they cannot guarantee compliance or prevent individuals with malicious intent from committing wrongful acts. One of the primary concerns surrounding universal change rooms is the increased vulnerability individuals face in these spaces. The absence of gender segregation can create an environment where voyeurism and sexual assaults become more prevalent. Incidents of voyeurism and inappropriate behavior have been reported, leading to a loss of privacy and a diminished sense of safety for many individuals. This poses a significant risk, particularly for children and those who have experienced trauma, as they may not feel comfortable or secure in these shared spaces. I would also like to point out that though the person in the video claims that all you can see under the doors of the stalls is someone’s feet, I can assure you that my head and most of my body can easily maneuver my way under the stall door(s), and over the stalls, leaving plenty of room for those individuals with malicious intents to easily slide their hands, feet, or possibly a gimbal stick under or over the doors making it easy for their phones or other recording devices to record potential victims while using these vulnerable spaces. Durhams recent police report noted that they posted a fake child web site wich attracted over 6,000 hits in one day soliciting child sex. Durhams most recent campaign was put forth in fight against human trafficking erecting sign along major roads. The threat here in Durham is real. Do we really need to invite the possible risk of criminal act to take place in our community recreation centres. Another important issue that was never even mentioned in Pickering’s Chestnut Hill Recreation Centre video is the psychological impact of these universal change rooms which cannot be overlooked, especially for children. Not to mention the lack of regards for cultural and religious values. The lack of respect and the pressure to conform to a specific societal agenda norm can lead to increased anxiety, stress, and impact natural cognitive development for children. Children, in particular, may find it challenging to navigate these vulnerable spaces, resulting in feelings of insecurity, discomfort, and even exclusion. It is crucial to recognize the importance of providing options that prioritize the mental well-being of individuals, particularly those who may already be struggling with mental health challenges. As a strong advocate for the people, every male and female,should have the right to make an informed decision about the spaces they feel most comfortable using. Whether they choose to use their biological changeroom or the universal changeroom which is inclusive to all, regardless of their age or membership status. While the Corporation of The City of Pickering continues to argue that Chestnut Hill Development Recreation Complex’s universal change room is safe, and promotes inclusivity and equality, it has inadvertently created increased anxiety, stress, and mental health issues amongst the community by taking away individuals right to feel safe in vulnerable spaces. Maybe Pickering could look at how Brooklyn designed their recreation center. They have biological changerooms for males and females to use regardless of their age, and instead of having a big open area, monitored by signs for the universal changerooms, they have individual rooms to be used as family/universal changerooms recognizing the importance of individual choice and autonomy. Giving everyone the right to personal privacy and personal comfort. Way to go Brooklyn.