When did Canadians and Politicians lose their compassion

By Lisa Robinson - Pickering City Councillor Mental Health Week and Bell Let’s Talk Day, hold great importance dear to my heart as it sheds light on the urgent need for support and assistance for those struggling with mental health issues. However, instead of providing people with the necessary help, it seems that we are offering excuses and enabling harmful behaviors. In the past, when someone was mistaken for another gender, we would offer them the support they needed to get to the root of the problem. If one had an addiction, we would again offer them the support they needed to help stop the addiction, yet in today’s world because of a very loud minority that believes that the rest of society should just play along with particular narratives, we are now being forced to support certain fantasies, delusions, and addictions. Some of these may hold no validity as they have not been confirmed or substantiated by concrete evidence or professional assessment. One must be aware of the human desire to want to receive recognition and thus sometimes plays a significant role in who or what one wants to portray themselves as because without it they receive little to no recognition from their peers. Help is no longer sought to get to the root of the problem, but is now given to perpetuate certain behaviors, and this is deeply troubling, even more alarming is the fact that the government itself also promotes these narratives as a way of political posturing rather than genuinely addressing or solving an issue to help those with mental illness. The very individuals who claim to advocate for mental health are often the ones who contribute to its deterioration. Take for example the Mayor, who released a video addressing mental health and portraying himself as a champion for the cause. However, his actions contradict his words. He has caused significant mental distress for many, myself included. Incidents of bullying, name-calling, and the silencing of opposing voices. Voting to sanction my pay as a single mother for three months, with no other support or income coming in leaving me unable to provide for my family or even pay my mortgage. I was on the verge of resorting to the use of a food bank. It is hypocritical for someone who causes such hardship, to then expect people to approach him for support and raise awareness. This same individual, along with another member of the previous Council, violated the stay-at-home orders during the Covid pandemic. While families were suffering, losing loved ones who died alone, unable to visit loved ones over Christmas, the list goes on, council members were traveling and prioritizing their own mental well-being. It is deeply distressing that they would promote isolation and abandonment for others while enjoying their freedom. This issue of politicians dismissing the mental anguish this isolation caused on its residents soon became a global concern, and not just confined to the boundaries of Pickering. I also recall Bell Let's Talk Day, where they claimed to be advocates for mental health. However, shortly after the event, they terminated all their unvaccinated staff, causing significant mental anguish. It is alarming that the very institutions and individuals who claim to support mental health are now offering an escape of using (MAID) medical assistance in dying, instead of providing the necessary help for individuals to understand and address their challenges. It's challenging for me to fully trust the credibility of politicians when it comes to their understanding of mental health, especially when claims have also been made by a couple of my colleagues on council that artwork improves one’s mental health. I think it is important to recognize at this time after much research that the true benefit lies in the act of creating art rather than merely observing it. The same council member also stated that because of the division of city and regional responsibilities, we as a city should not use our resources to help fund the less fortunate. Canada has become a world leader in euthanasia. Since the introduction of Federal Legislation in 2016, there have been over 44,958 of these medical-assisted deaths and each year it keeps rising. In 2022, there was a 30% increase over the year before in the number of MAID deaths as reported by a Health Canada report. Very few criteria need to be met to end your life, but what concerns me is that as of March 2024, Canadians whose only medical condition is mental illness will also be eligible for MAID. I brought this to the attention of the Council back on February 27, 2023, when I lost in a 6 to 1 vote on moving forward with the Ontario Big City Mayor's recommendations on the health and homelessness crisis. I fear that most of our homeless have a mental illness, and with Durham Region creating low barrier hubs and/or housing that may give access to physicians and nurse practitioners, it may make this type of program easier to access and administer medical assisted dying to the very vulnerable people that we are trying to protect. Instead of offering genuine assistance and understanding to those in need, we are now presenting them with an option to no longer exist if they find their situation unbearable. This approach is not only deeply saddening but also highly problematic. Individuals with mental illness deserve proper care and support, not an easy way out. It is disheartening to see that large corporations and the government often show up for photo opportunities like flag raisings, and speak convincingly about mental health, but their actions reveal them to be hypocrites. We as a society must return to a time when seeking help was met with compassion, free from fear of repercussions, or being told that the only solution is to make oneself disappear. "Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head-On And Rise Above It"

Public Transit From the Lens of Human Rights

By Maurice Brenner Deputy Mayor/Regional Councillor Ward 1 Pickering On January 1st, those who use Public Transit (DRT) across Durham woke up to a new reality. The under funded service taken for granted by many, implemented a series of cuts and realignment of routes with no consultation with riders, but in the name of efficiencies. This weeks Column will take a deep drive through the lens of Human Rights, and why the Pickering Accessibility Advisory Committee feels that DRT has violated the Ontario Human Rights Code (Code) and the AODA. On January 17th, as an appointed member to the Pickering Accessibility Advisory Committee, I presented an overview of the DRT reductions in Service level triggering a wholesome discussion and a powerful statement through a resolution that will be presented to Pickering Council for ratification February 26th. Given the urgency that DRT was commencing a month end review of the impacts of the changes, I felt it was prudent to provide to DRT in advance of the February 7th DRT Executive Committee a copy of the resolution “That the Accessibility Advisory Committee finds the Service Changes implemented by Durham Region Transit implemented on January 1, 2024 to be in contravention of the Ontario Human Rights Code (OHRC) and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA); and, That the Accessibility Advisory Committee requests that the Council of the City of Pickering send a letter to the Region of Durham requesting that they reverse the service changes immediately and consult with Pickering residents and key stakeholders; including those with accessibility needs; on any future services changes.” The Committee applied the lens under the Ontario Human Rights Code and the AODA with-in the context that DRT is considered a service provider and while changes may have been made to achieve maximum performance and utilization of existing resources, it failed to look at the impacts the changes would have on a cross section of persons with disabilities. The DRT changes made assumptions that all customers could meet the distance requirement of 800m to a stop when in fact those with mobility issues and invisible disabilities can not. It made assumptions that routes where only a small number of customers were using Transit needed to be cancelled and failed to take into consideration if the cancelation denied persons with a disability access to Transit which factored in the criteria for who qualifies for Specialized Services which further placed the emphasis on the utilization of DRT regular services. Under the Code, service providers have a legal duty to accommodate the needs of people with disabilities who are adversely affected by a requirement, rule or standard. In this instance while not intended this shift has resulted in systemic discrimination. Accommodation is necessary to ensure that people with disabilities have equal opportunities, access and benefits. When the changed to service levels were being considered, it lacked inclusively and failed to accommodate the needs of a person with a disability in a way that promotes integration and full participation. What Is the Duty To Accommodate: The duty to accommodate has both a substantive and a procedural component. The procedure to assess an accommodation (the process) is as important as the substantive content of the accommodation. In a case involving the accommodation of a mental health disability in the workplace, the court said: “a failure to give any thought or consideration to the issue of accommodation, including what, if any, steps could be taken constitutes a failure to satisfy the ‘procedural ’duty to accommodate.” In Ontario, a failure in the procedural duty to accommodate can lead to a finding of a breach of the Code even if there was no substantive accommodation that could have been provided short of undue hardship. Failure to perform either component of the duty is a failure to carry out the duty to accommodate. DRT is a Public Sector organization and can not argue that providing accommodation would cause undue hardship. Having failed to explore accommodations and a failure to take positive steps to ensure that disadvantaged groups benefit equally from services offered to the general public, DRT has contravened the Code. DRT also failed to take into consideration The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) Under the AODA, government public service providers are required to comply with accessibility standards in varying degrees relative to an organization’s size and sector. There is an expectation to prevent barriers at the design stage including Policy, organizations should be aware of systemic barriers and should actively identify and seek to remove these existing barriers. Public Participation: This item will be discussed February 7th at 1:30 at the DRT Executive Committee located at Durham Regional Headquarters in the Council Chamber 605 Rossland Rd E, Whitby, ON L1N 0B7 and is open to anyone who wishes to attend.

DA PLANE! ~ DA PLANE! BOSS WELCOME TO FANTASY ISLAND “OSHAWA”

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 - Remember the old ‘FANTASY ISLAND’? With my favorite actor Hervé Villechaize -Tattoo and Ricardo Montalbán (Mr. Roarke). It appears that Oshawa has become ‘FANTASY ISLAND’ of sort, as it can only be described as a delusional fantasy the way our city elect govern the city or the island we become within Durham Region. Before you stop laughing... We do have our own Mr. Roarke. In Oshawa we call him Mayor Carter. Our Tattoo is our Mayor brown nosed want to be Mayor in the next election side kick. Councillor Tito-Dante Marimpietri, Chair of the Economic and Development Services Committee. Talk about make believe. Tattoo as Chair of the Economic and Development Services Committee. How are we expected to grow in a positive way with someone that has never held a real job that demanded the same skill set that is expected for such chairship. An individual that out of office at best held a realtor job. Really, a realtor is making million dollar decision on our behalf? Is there any wonder the city wasted 30 million on a south end park. Made numerous taxpayers waste of money, then the city turns around and hits taxpayers with a hefty property tax increase. Only in fantasy Island you are led to believe that the City is prospering.... while citizens sleep on our city streets and along ravines in -20 weather. The City Mayor loves to spew development statistics while he allows our prime farm lands to the north to be raped by developers looking to make millions off our incompetency. If we need housing would it not make more sense to go high rise instead of spread across prime farm land? But wait. Just this week Fantasy Island released: City of Oshawa launches new 10-year Economic Development Strategy. Pure, insanity and a desperate attempt to fool taxpayers in thinking that those elected care about the city. The release claimed: The City of Oshawa is pleased to announce the launch of its new Economic Development Strategy that aims to drive job growth and further investment in the city. The Strategy focuses on enhanced trade, diversification and quality of life and positions Oshawa for future economies, opportunities and overall growth. This is the same administration that allowed GM to walk away from Oshawa as they left us with a huge environmental mess while giving every Oshawa citizen the famous Trudeau salute. The same administration that feared accountability from GM. I guess that the saying you get what you paid for is so true here: We elect incompetency and we get incompetency. How are we to expect prosperity when those making the decision have never had or will ever have the business experience, academics and or related discipline experience to make the decisions they entrusted to make. So what do we the tax payer get. Pipe dreams. ‘focuses on enhanced trade, diversification...’ Really, this is the same administration that practices, corporate bias, prejudice and discrimination against local businesses. The same administration that fails to acknowledge 30 year old business operating in the City Downtown. The released continued: ‘To complement existing sectors such as healthcare, education, advanced manufacturing and energy generation, emerging sectors were identified in high-growth fields such as: Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality, Cybersecurity, eSports, EV and Automotive Technologies.’ Wake up. Who put this together. Do they even know where Oshawa is. Have they driven downtown Oshawa. Are they blind? The City practically gave away strategic properties to the College/University in hope that the walk traffic would revive the core. This only accomplished the few parking spots in the core to be used by students. This taking away from the possible patrons to local downtown business. Look at the vacancies in the core. Have anyone at the city approached any downtown local businesses and asked what is the biggest issues. I am sure none will tell you. Artificial Intelligence, Augmented reality, Cybersecurity or EV. Like really... EV. Taking up more parking spaces in the core. Who is doing the thinking here Tattoo. How about tackling the high taxes. How about complementing the creating of more housing in the form of high rise. How about complementing the drug/crime/homeless in Oshawa. In 20 years. I have yet to see my local or regional councillor walk in to my place of business and ask me what the core needs. I am the media. Do you think they have any other business? But wait... Let the city put out another pipe dream and overlook the white elephant in the room. I think Mr. Roarke and Tattoo are way out of touch with reality. They have no real grasp of reality and it shows in their 10 year pipe dream. Da Plane, Da Plane is going down Boss. Da Plane.

Canada’s politics and the military

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East While many things are happening in the world in quick succession, some interesting things are evolving in Canada too. On the political side, we are sensing some sings of panic in the Liberal minority government. On the military side, a continuous lack of funding for infrastructure and equipment and frequent changes at the chief of defence staff level serve to further weaken an already struggling organization. In a landmark ruling, the Federal Court found that the issuance of the Proclamation and associated Regulations and Order under the Emergencies Act used to disperse Freedom Convoy protestors, was unconstitutional and unreasonable and exceeded the act’s intended scope. The court highlighted violations of the Charter rights, specifically encroaching upon freedom of thought, opinion, and expression, along with an infringement on the right to security against unreasonable search or seizure. The Federal Court decision also touched upon special economic measures taken by the Trudeau government to freeze the bank accounts of Freedom Convoy organizers and protesters. Justice Richard Mosley rejected the government’s claim that freezing the accounts represented minimum impairment under the Economic Measures. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Chrystia Freeland who just returned from the World Economic Foundation (WEF) summit in Davos where she is a trustee, has announced the government’s intention to appeal. “So we are aware of the court decision. We have discussed it with the Prime Minister, with Cabinet colleagues, with senior federal government officials and experts. We respect very much Canada’s independent judiciary. However, we do not agree with this decision. And respectfully, we will be appealing it,” said Freeland. “I was convinced at the time, it was the right thing to do. It was the necessary thing to do. I remain and we remain convinced of that,” Freeland re-iterated when asked about the special economic measures. Leaving this evolving political scenario for the moment, let us take a look on what is happening or what should be happening in our military. In view of the extensive military action around the world, in which Canada is also called upon to contribute, the status of our military is of concern. Lack of political attention and lack of adequate funding have been problems for decades. The leadership of the armed forces is in disarray and more interested in politics than looking to strengthening our armed forces in a very dangerous world. Emerging technologies in the contemporary period are developing at a rapid pace. Artificial intelligence, for example, is quickly changing the ways in which we gather and interpret data. Failure to adopt technologies means that the Canadian military risks being deployed in future operations against adversaries who have existing access to such modern technologies. However, technology will not revolutionize operations by itself. Its effective implementation will require new ideas about how it can be used. Senior Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) leadership should foster and maintain a feedback loop among officers concerning their views on the introduction of emerging technologies. Special attention should be paid to military engineering skills, which seem to take the headlines today. One of the main outputs of a new technologically inclined organizational culture would be the generation of new ideas towards doctrine, strategies and operational methods. Essentially, leadership needs to enthusiastically embrace the introduction of the new technologies and focus on it instead of other issues. A realistic field experience is also an incredibly important element of the innovation process. This will unfold either during active operations or through major training and tabletop exercises. It will allow officers to gain as much direct experience with the emerging technologies as possible, which in turn can help allow the officers to build trust and acceptance about its usage. It is best if this can occur prior to the start of any major conflict as learning during combat operations carries the risk of greater numbers of causalities. Overall, undergoing realistic field and tabletop exercises are the best ways for a military to judge the success of innovation efforts during peacetime as they will provide CAF leadership with direct evidence and data. Success will be determined by analyzing the CAF’s performance during the exercises to identify if the new technologies allowed for new or more effective operational methods to unfold in terms of lethality, speed, or other metrics of efficiency. To help evaluate the success of new technologies the CAF should also continue to participate in as many multinational allied field exercises as possible, as they allow the CAF to evaluate whether the new technologies have helped bolster their interoperability capabilities, which have been prioritized as a goal for the CAF. Considerations beyond operational effectiveness will always be taken into account when evaluating the impact of innovation efforts. States will often be politically motivated by a broad variety of intentions, such as a desire to be seen as a more reliable ally. However, sometimes-complicated situations may unfold where new technologies help the military meet certain goals, but not others. For example, new technological investments may create new interoperability opportunities, which satisfy certain political considerations. At the same time they may also hamper the operational effectiveness of the military. Leadership will eventually need to articulate and prioritize which goals they want to use to measure the success of innovative efforts. The current generation of technologies are continuously evolving, while militaries now also face a growing need to focus on multi-domain operations. These blur the lines between conflict and peacetime, and so faster solutions are required to meet the demands of these combined challenges. To mitigate costs during complex innovative efforts under such circumstances, defence officials need to lay as much foundation for change as possible to avoid any organizational obstacles that can further constrain the integration process. Building such a foundation will allow the Canadian defence community to approach new technologies in a less risk-averse manner and quicken the decision-making cycle. Technological innovation requires new methods of management to allow the CAF to meet current and future challenges. Civilian and military leadership will need to engage in quicker decision-making cycles and reform the equipment procurement process to allow for the rapid acquisition of emerging technologies. This however requires funding, which is nowhere to be seen, and the Minister of Defence, Bill Blair, with his only extensive experience in policing and no military background, does not seem interested in fighting for some. What are your thoughts?

GOV VS MEDIA

By Dale Jodoin The relationship between the government and news media in Canada has entered a new phase, one that significantly blurs the lines of journalistic independence. This development has become a subject of intense debate and scrutiny, especially with the major news outlets in Canada receiving direct financial support from the government. In the heart of this debate is a simple yet profound question: How does government funding affect the objectivity and independence of the media? This question becomes critical when we consider the traditional role of the media as a watchdog of democracy, tasked with holding the government accountable and providing unbiased information to the public. Let's explore the current landscape. In Canada, major news outlets, both in print and television, have started receiving financial aid from the government. This move, ostensibly aimed at helping these media organizations navigate through financial difficulties, has raised eyebrows and questions about the future of independent journalism in the country. This government funding is not a trivial matter; it directly impacts the operational dynamics of these news organizations. Critics argue that accepting financial support from the government could lead to a conflict of interest, where news outlets might hesitate to criticize government policies or actions, fearing the loss of funding. This could potentially lead to a situation where the media becomes less of a watchdog and more of a mouthpiece for government narratives. The implications of this development are far-reaching. One of the primary concerns is the erosion of public trust in the media. When the audience starts to perceive news outlets as extensions of the government, rather than independent entities, it can lead to a significant decline in the credibility of these outlets. This loss of trust is not just a problem for the media organizations; it undermines the very foundation of a healthy democracy, where access to unbiased information is crucial for informed decision-making by the public. Moreover, the situation in Canada reflects a broader global trend where governments are increasingly intervening in the media landscape, either through direct funding or regulatory measures. This trend raises important questions about the future of press freedom and the role of media in democratic societies. However, it's also important to understand the challenges faced by news media in the digital age. The traditional revenue models, mainly based on advertising and subscriptions, have been disrupted by the rise of digital platforms. This economic pressure has made some media outlets more receptive to government assistance, viewing it as a necessary measure for survival. In light of these developments, it becomes crucial for media organizations to find innovative ways to maintain their independence. This could involve diversifying revenue streams, investing in investigative journalism, and strengthening editorial independence to ensure that their reporting remains unbiased and fact-based, irrespective of funding sources. For the public, this situation underscores the importance of media literacy and critical thinking. It's vital for the audience to be aware of the potential influences on the news they consume and to seek out a variety of news sources to get a well-rounded view of current events. In conclusion, the direct funding of major news media by the Canadian government is a development that warrants careful scrutiny and open debate. While the financial support might offer a lifeline to struggling media organizations, it also poses significant risks to journalistic independence and public trust. As we navigate this complex landscape, the need for a free, independent, and diverse press remains more important than ever. The future of democratic discourse in Canada may well depend on how this delicate balance is maintained.

The Ultimate Job Search Hack: Know Your Limitations

By Nick Kossovan The adage, "You can achieve anything you set your mind to," is a cruel lie. You most likely heard this phrase when you were young, your future was wide open, and your world was filled with possibilities. Due to your youthful, hopeful, and irrational perspective, you likely interpreted this phrase as referring to karmic or cosmic rewards, thus creating the false belief that if you wish for something, work hard enough, and want it badly enough, it'll somehow materialize. That's not how the world works. Wishing, wanting, and working towards will increase your chances of success, but they don't guarantee it. Searching for a job emphasizes "not a guarantee" while humbling you. Many job seekers cling too tightly to their definition of career success, likely shaped by their environment. During our youth, many things we wished for were long shots, such as becoming an actor, filmmaker, writer, rockstar, or CEO of a Fortune 500 company. It's common for a high school student to dream of becoming a professional athlete and devote enormous physical and mental energy to trying to achieve their dream without considering their odds of success; after all, they're young. Maybe you were such a student. Less than 0.1% of players—one out of every 1,000—participating in organized hockey in North America make it to the NHL. Statistically, only 3 in 10,000, .03 percent, male high school basketball players will join an NBA Roster. Having experienced high school, you know how much the captain of the football team identity derives from being "the captain of the football team." When he doesn't make it to the NFL, what becomes of his identity? As adults, we identify with our job title and employer. "You're a Senior Technical Program Manager at Google... impressive." Then, when you're part of a layoff, your identity is shattered. A job search not going as "hoped"—rarely does a job search go "as hoped"—hurts. You know what's even worse? Putting all your blood, sweat, tears and time into trying to obtain a job, career, or position at your dream company that isn't meant to be. Even positions you feel should be within your reach—you believe you have the skills, experience, and qualifications—may be a long shot, especially in today's hyper-competitive job market. As I age, I'm mindful that there's always someone younger and hungrier who wants my position. Then there's AI, advancing exponentially daily, and low-cost overseas labour nipping at my heels. Never underestimate whom and what you're competing against. Your qualifications and skills aren't as unique as you think. Moreover, success is influenced by a complex interplay of internal and external factors. I see it all the time: job seekers refusing to accept that no matter how much they want a particular job or how hard they work or network, it's simply not meant to be. The sooner you come to the realization you're not going to be a rockstar, make a living as a social media influencer, that you don't have what it takes to lead and manage people—something more people need to come to terms with—then the sooner you can start reframing what "success" means to you. "We must be willing to let go of the life we planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us." - Epictetus, Greek Stoic philosopher. Based on my observations, I've come to realize that trying to portray ourselves as we wish to be perceived and identified as (e.g., financially successful, confident, a leader) is what trips us up. I find it fascinating how married some people get to their idealized image of themselves and then blame everyone when it doesn't materialize, instead of asking themselves, Do I have what it takes? Do I really want what I'm aiming for? My oldest friend's entire working life, still ongoing, has been washing cars for a car rental company. He's one of the happiest people I know. His inner peace is Zen-like because he accepts who he is and is thankful for what he has rather than focusing on, as most people do, what he doesn't have. As I see it, job searching, your chance to reinvent yourself, is hard enough without chasing what's not in your cards. We all know someone, perhaps yourself, who has been pursuing a career goal, in various degrees of effort, for quite some time without success, hitting their head against the proverbial brick wall. More than once, I've given a job seeker, after listening to their job search frustrations and how much time and effort they devote to their search, the advice, "I think you'd be happier pursuing a different goal that better fits you and your life." Why spend your life feeling like a failure and your life's on hold while trying to attain an unattainable career status? There's no better time than when you're job searching to explore employment options that fit your inherent capabilities better. Acknowledging your limitations (READ: your probability of success) and accordingly adjusting your job search is the best job search hack I 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

CALLING ON DEREK GIBERSON RESIGNATION

WHY AM I BEING ATTACKED BY CITY COUNCILLOR DEREK GIBERSON. IS THIS WHAT WE ELECTED HIM TO OFFICE FOR. I CALL FOR HIS RESIGNATION. Oshawa mayoralty candidate and newspaper publisher Joe Ingino will face an audit over his 2022 campaign expenses because “of a number of questions that remain over his advertising.” That was the decision made Thursday by the Joint Compliance Audit Committee, which looks into and evaluates complaints made by members of the public regarding spending or contributions made to candidates for the 2022 municipal election. The committee heard from Ingino, who was the subject of a 99-page complaint over the amount and value of election advertising he placed for himself in the Oshawa/Durham Central newspaper, of which he is owner and publisher. Ingino was also a candidate who ran in the 2022 election, declaring his candidacy on May 4, 2022. Oshawa Ward 4 councillor Derek Giberson was one of six complainants who filed the 99-page complaint against Ingino. He and Roger Bouma, who also signed the complaint, spoke to the committee in support of the complaint on Thursday. At issue was the rate card for candidate advertising Giberson said candidates received from the Central, after nominations opened May 1. Giberson said that rate card valued ads in the Central at amounts going from $250 for 1/16th of a page to $400 for 1/8th of a page to $600 for 1/4th of a page all the way up to $2,250 for a full page. Giberson then added up all of Ingino’s ads throughout the election period to come up with a total ad spend of $219,687. Giberson pointed out that the total spending limit for mayoral campaigns in Oshawa was $111,153.25, calculating that Ingino spent $108,000 more than allowed under election spending limits. Ingino said that he had taken what he called a “gold” package for advertising which he valued at $3,000 in total. He didn’t provide the committee with a receipt at the time but said he would provide it to the auditor. Ingino’s total campaign expenses came out to $6,586.63 of which he said he spent $3,000 on advertising and $3,028.40 on signs, his two biggest expenses. YOUR TAX DOLLARS AT WORK... IF THEY DO THIS TO ME IMAGINE WHAT THEY DO TO YOU. GIBERSON I CALL FOR YOUR RESIGNATION IN THE NAME OF ALL THE PEOPLE THAT ARE SLEEPING ON OUR STREETS. IN THE NAME OF ALL THE CLOSED BUSINESSES. INSTEAD YOU WASTE OUR TAX DOLLARS IN WITCH HUNTS....

LET’S TALK NUMBERS

Tahir Khorasanee, LL.M. Senior Associate, Steinbergs LLP I am often asked about the amount of notice or severance employees are entitled to upon termination. Answering that question requires me to first review the employment agreement. Many times, there is an employment agreement, but it contains a termination provision that has been struck down by the courts and is therefore unenforceable. Most of the time, there is no written employment agreement at all. In both instances, the employee's entitlements upon termination are based on several factors, including age, salary, position, and length of service. There are often other considerations as well, which I will discuss in subsequent columns on a biweekly basis. As an example, Nemirovski was employed with Socast Inc for 19 months. He was a project manager and was awarded 19 months by the courts because Socast refused to provide Nemirovski with a reference letter, and his employment agreement had an onerous non-competition clause. In the absence of an enforceable termination provision that limits employees' entitlements to the minimums outlined in the Employment Standards Act, employees are entitled to anywhere between 2 to 30 months' notice or pay in lieu thereof. In some instances, such as with construction workers or those in seasonal industries, there may be no obligations upon termination. Failure to consult a lawyer initially to determine appropriate employee obligations upon termination results in wrongful dismissal claims, increasing costs significantly. The same holds true for employees who are often provided with a termination package paying only the Employment Standards Act minimums, which do not reflect the employee's actual entitlements. For many small businesses, having to pay 2 to 30 months' notice is a significant cost. These costs can easily be avoided if businesses consult a lawyer and conduct a human resource audit, reviewing existing employment agreements and policies, identifying deficiencies, and recommending strategies to limit liabilities. This involves an upfront cost but saves tens of thousands of dollars in the short term and even more in the long term. Employment agreements drafted after the COVID-19 pandemic prioritize reducing costs and providing businesses with flexibility. Many businesses went under during the COVID-19 pandemic, and those that survived did so because they sought legal advice early on. Businesses with employment contracts with an enforceable termination provision limiting the employee to the Employment Standards Act minimum can provide as little as 1 weeks’ notice, as opposed to 2 months to 30 months. In my next column, I will be answering employment law questions from both employees and employers. If you want me to answer your questions, email me at tkhorasanee@steinbergsllp.com. Tahir Khorasanee is currently the Vice President and the incoming president of the Employment Lawyers Association of Ontario. He is a Senior Associate at Steinbergs LLP. Tahir Khorasanee, LL.M. Senior Associate Steinbergs LLP

Conversations in the Community Page: Hidden Agenda’s and False Narratives.

It appears that the City of Pickering is following a familiar playbook employed by governments to control the narrative surrounding certain discussions. The Corporation of The City of Pickering has recently launched a 'Conversations in the Community' page, presenting it as being the sole destination for information on topics of community interest. However, it is essential to recognize that truth, like a flowing river, cannot be contained. It will always find its way to the surface, shining a light on hidden agendas and false narratives. One of the topics being discussed on this platform is the Changerooms at Pickering’s Chestnut Hill Recreation Centre. While the City is now encouraging us to seek facts exclusively from them, we must not forget that numerous individuals, myself included, have been advocating for months to allow individuals the choice to use a gender-specific change room. In 2022 Pickering decided to use a blanket approach that only members over the age of 18 are allowed to use gender-specific changerooms, while members under the age of 18, or non-members of any age are not allowed to use the gender-specific changeroom, and are forced to use the Universal changeroom which is inclusive to all and families. When did it become ok for a government to decide who does or does not have the right to deserve privacy when using vulnerable personal spaces? Concerns have been raised regarding the safety of such spaces, especially considering the increase in incidents worldwide, towards women and children when using these shared personal spaces. This notion of forcing someone into an environment that elicits discomfort and unease is not an approach I am comfortable with, nor am I comfortable with the excuse that because nothing serious has been reported at the Recreation Centre as of yet, they refuse to pursue the issue any further. So to make it clear, unless something terrible happens to an innocent person, nothing is going to change. And those are the facts, but that conversation is not being discussed on the new Community page. Another topic being discussed in this “only get the facts here page” is the concept of 15 minute and smart cities. It is perplexing that the city now presents themselves as experts on this matter when just a couple of weeks ago, they dismissed my having any discussions on the topic during a council meeting. The fact that both the Mayor and the CAO confirmed that they have never had any conversations or received any information on these topics amongst themselves or with any other level of government, is disheartening as Oshawa signed up to be a 15 minute city, quite some time ago. After inquiring about Pickering’s future, the Mayor yelled at me saying “We are not going down the rabbit hole” and “stop on the crazy street”. I was then silenced and not allowed to speak as the Mayor turned off my mic. I’d like to note however, burried within the budget, Two Hundred Thousand Dollars is going towards Pickering’s Smart City initiative for technology and data collection. So now the question arises, why would one choose to deceive the public in the first place, especially when we as a government are supposed to be open and transparent? Personally, I am of the opinion that if the City cannot engage in truthful transparent communications then how can one expect the people of Pickering to trust “Pickering’s Conversations in the Community” page as the sole destination to get the “facts” on any topic. Thus far, the contents in the community page, have not exhibited a resounding sense of truthfulness. Another interesting subject was how the city continues to speak about the Pickering Integrity Commissioner and their role as an “independent and impartial official”. I think it is worth asking the question of how is it possible for an Integrity Commissioner to truly remain unbiased, impartial, or truly independent when they are being paid by the corporation of the City of Pickering? Does this not raise concerns about the objectivity and independence of the office. Not to mention, it was only recently that the Council passed a bylaw that no one can speak to an Integrity Commissioner report as a delegate. That seems pretty odd in a democratic society. I even found myself in the unfortunate position of experiencing the impact of a biased integrity commissioner firsthand, and it was disheartening to witness the lack of regard for ethical standards in fairness, objectivity, and the pursuit of truth, not only in the report but surrounding the process, again being silenced to ask any questions. While I have merely scratched the surface on a few of the issues raised in Pickering’s new “Conversations in the Community page”, I intend to delve deeper into it in future columns and shed light on hidden agendas and false narratives. Presenting to you the other side, not just the government of Pickering’s sole narrative that they want you to believe. John C. Maxwell said it best when he said “Leaders can see what everybody else sees, but can think differently.” Until then, I invite you to follow me on social media. Twitter -@lifelibertylisa Facebook - Councillor Lisa Robinson, YouTube - Lisa Robinson and subscribe to my newsletter at www.lisarobinsonpolitician.ca for further updates, videos, and discussions, and I will see you back here again next week. Sending hugs I will always continue to seek the truth, challenge narratives, and foster meaningful conversations that truly represent the community's interests. "Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head-On And Rise Above It"

Hello Doc

By Maurice Brenner Deputy Mayor/Regional Councillor Ward 1 Pickering When we think of growth, the topic of infrastructure comes to mind. But infrastructure goes well beyond what’s physical which is why this weeks column will focus on how Durham Region is facing a Health Care Crisis caused by a lack of Family Physicians. During the pandemic, we got our first glance at what it was like to not have direct ability to access your family doctor followed by the virtual doctor. Then post pandemic we thought things would go back to normal, but it couldn’t as increasing numbers of our Doctors faced burnout, retirement and an inability to keep up with increasing pressures of growth. Today, 24.3% of Durham residents do not have access to a family doctor. Durham needs 145 new Family Physicians. When we put the City of Pickering under the microscope 25.2% of residents do not have access to a family doctor equaling a shortage of 19 Family Physicians. But Pickering is not alone, at this weeks Durham Regional Committee of the Whole, the Durham Physician Engagement Team reported similar alarming trends across the Region in every Municipality. Adding to the problem is a lack of Family Health Teams with only 2 across the entire Region with one in Pickering and one in Scugog. In an effort to address this crisis Durham and all 8 lower tier Municipalities need a coordinated approach for recruitment and need to band together to pressure the Province of Ontario to create and fund more Family Health Teams To learn more about our Doctor Shortage and the recommendations for moving forward check out Report #2024-COW-2 available on the Durham Region Website and watch for this item appearing on the agendas of your lower tie Municipality.

BRAVO TO THE RED CROSS ORCHARD PARK NY

By Joe Ingino Editor/Publisher ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States This past week, I was transported in time to a time in America where all was good and fair. A time when you could smell apple pie in the air even thought no one was baking. That warm fuzzy feeling that only pure wholesomeness can offer. Ok, let me explain. This past week. I passed by Buffalo, NY. as I do every month. This time it was different. The highway I was to go on was closed due to a real bad storm blowing from Lake Erie. I decided to take the side roads. All was going well until such time as the wind Gods decided to dump four feet in 10 minutes. Life became strange. I was the only one on the road. With the exception of snow plows. It got so bad I had to pull off in a gas station parking lot. The wind was blowing hard and you could barely see your hand infront of your face. As I waited the storm out. A state trooper pulls behind me and informs me that there was a travel ban and that I was not supposed to be on the road. The officer beyond nice. He directed me to a warming center at Orchard Park Middle school. I never been to a ‘warming center’. I was preparing for the worst. Instead, I was transported back to the 50’s. The people at the center were beyond friendly. Beyond courteous and helpful. I was shocked. I felt I was in a ‘LEAVE IT TO BEAVER’ episode. Everyone at this center were so attentive and caring. It blew my mind. As we waited out the storm. It appeared it was Canadian night at the Center as most of the occupants were from Canada. Some had driven off the road into ditches others car break down. My mission for that day was to get from point A to B. I decided to coordinate intel on road conditions and radar weather patterns. Cross reference them with eye witness on road conditions. I also had to keep in mind the fact that if I did leave the safety of this sanctuary. I would face a fine and possible towing charges if in a wreck. The more I stayed the more comfortable I felt. The red cross volunteers even offered me an IMP. This further blew my mind. IMP (Individual Meal Pack). Believe it or not. Ravioli in a bag... Wow. Finally when the intel was in and the conditions looked favorable to continue my journey I took that leap of faith and connected with my highway. Even thought still closed it was plowed. I just like to say thank you, thank you to all the volunteers that night. I felt really at home. Thank you for the humanity, hospitality and the welcoming attitude and feeling. I can’t say thank you enough. Great work. I truly appreciated.

Winter Sitting—What’s Up in the House of Commons?

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East After a long vacation MPs head back to the Hill, to work on the bills that are still being debated or awaiting debate to begin. As in every winter session of Parliament, follow-up work is to be done. The House of Commons witnessed its fair share of chaos during last year's fall sitting. Speaker Anthony Rota resigned in disgrace after recognizing a war veteran who fought alongside the Nazis as a "Canadian hero." His replacement, Greg Fergus, also faced criticism for appearing in a video tribute to an Ontario Liberal MPP while wearing his Speaker's robes. In addition, Government House Leader Karina Gould has begun her maternity leave, leaving Government Whip Steve MacKinnon to oversee the legislative agenda in her absence. Housing, affordability, and the economy in general, continue to be major concerns. However, there seems to be a stalemate, with the Liberal government trying to find solutions but finding themselves overwhelmed by issues. A more comprehensive approach to strengthening Canada's national security legal framework appears to be underway. The promised online harms legislation is still delayed. With responsibility for the file shifting from Canadian Heritage to the Department of Justice, the government seems to be slow in calming rising antisemitism in the country. Pharmacare legislation that New Democrats demanded as part of their supply and confidence agreement with the government has yet to be tabled. The rest is work as usual, with motherhood legislation waiting to be approved. Notably, there is nothing about the real issues confronting the country. Interest in Canada’s science and industrial development has eluded current House of Commons legislators. At present, there are no MPs who understand the crucial role that applied science can play in the development of Canada. We are lost in space on this file. For example: once a leader in nuclear science and associated industries, today Canada is far behind other nations. A Chinese company has developed a nuclear battery that could keep your phone running for 50 years without recharging. Betavolt Technology claims to have successfully miniaturized atomic energy batteries, with dimensions that measure less than a coin at 15 x 15 x 5mm. The compact battery uses the radioactive isotope Nickel 63 to generate 100 microwatts and a voltage of 3V of electricity through the process of radioactive decay. Betavolt plans to mass-produce them for commercial devices like phones and drones, but also states nuclear batteries could be used for aerospace equipment, medical equipment, advanced sensors and micro-robots. The company is presently working hard to design multiple atomic batteries that could power automotive technology, as well as AI systems just to name a few. The advantages of atomic energy batteries are their lightweight, long service life, high energy density, and ability to work normally under extreme temperatures (-60 to 120oC). The company seems confident that its development is way ahead of European and American scientific research institutions and enterprises. My question: Where is Canada? It is quite clear that politicians invested in costly EV batteries for cars produced by foreign design and with foreign workers on Canadian soil, are not au current. Wouldn’t it be better to support Canadian scientific development? Both for the environment and our economy? No wonder Canada’s economic future looks grim. Lagging productivity means a declining standard of living and the emigration of our best and brightest. Let us face reality; Canada’s per capita GDP has yet to return to its pre-pandemic level. Indeed, it has been declining. The implications of this lack of productivity growth for our long-term standard of living are dire. The reasons for this can be summarized across five closely interconnected areas: unprecedented population growth, capital investment decline, neglected investment in research and development, structural economic issues, and finally, the policy environment. More people could potentially fuel extensive economic growth, but unless capital investment also grows to boost productivity, economic growth will not follow. Given our population growth rates, we would need to devote nearly 30 percent of our GDP to capital formation. That has not happened in Canada since the wheat boom era of the early 1900s—incidentally also the era of Canada’s fastest population growth. However, the quality and composition of investment also matters, and Canada’s spending on research and development as a share of its GDP has been declining for the last two decades. As a share of its GDP, Canada spends about half that of the U.S., spending less than any other G-7 country. How long will that policy keep us in the G-7? Fossilized structural economic issues persist, and despite the country’s population doubling over the last forty years, our markets are apparently still “too small” to allow for more competition. Combine this with provincial and federal implementation and regulatory environments that have raised the cost of starting just about anything, and you have a recipe for long-term economic decay. The final drop in the bucket in explaining our productivity malaise is a Canadian policy environment, which can be described as frozen in space federalism. At its best, Canadian federalism co-ordinates regional economic policies and practices to promote overall Canadian economic performance. At its worst, Canadian federalism can be a petulant collective of myopic jurisdictions operating at cross-purposes that frustrate any attempts at national coordination. Canada’s provinces and the federal government have become increasingly prone to bickering. Canadian federalism in action has Ottawa controlling the levers of immigration and using this power to increase the population to address aging populations and labour shortages. Unfortunately, they have not considered the consequences on health services and housing stock. The provinces control health and education services but in the wake of rising population and demand both sectors are highly stressed and finding it hard to cope. Then there are the municipalities, which control the key levers for land zoning and housing construction. Yet, despite what seems to be a roaring demand for housing, they are moving slowly, if at all. Canada’s economic strategy seems to have focused on increasing population size while assuming that anything needed to boost productivity would simply take care of itself. (Like Trudeau’s budget?) As a result, we now have a growing population and a bigger market but less competition, resulting in higher prices and fewer services. We are spending more on health and education, but reaping hallway health care and students with declining test scores. Are we really getting our money’s worth? The long-term implications of Canada’s falling per capita GDP is a declining standard of living and ultimately the out-migration of the best and brightest. We are on track to becoming a poorer country with a more fractious political system unable to get things done. Is this the country we want for our children? by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East After a long vacation MPs head back to the Hill, to work on the bills that are still being debated or awaiting debate to begin. As in every winter session of Parliament, follow-up work is to be done. The House of Commons witnessed its fair share of chaos during last year's fall sitting. Speaker Anthony Rota resigned in disgrace after recognizing a war veteran who fought alongside the Nazis as a "Canadian hero." His replacement, Greg Fergus, also faced criticism for appearing in a video tribute to an Ontario Liberal MPP while wearing his Speaker's robes. In addition, Government House Leader Karina Gould has begun her maternity leave, leaving Government Whip Steve MacKinnon to oversee the legislative agenda in her absence. Housing, affordability, and the economy in general, continue to be major concerns. However, there seems to be a stalemate, with the Liberal government trying to find solutions but finding themselves overwhelmed by issues. A more comprehensive approach to strengthening Canada's national security legal framework appears to be underway. The promised online harms legislation is still delayed. With responsibility for the file shifting from Canadian Heritage to the Department of Justice, the government seems to be slow in calming rising antisemitism in the country. Pharmacare legislation that New Democrats demanded as part of their supply and confidence agreement with the government has yet to be tabled. The rest is work as usual, with motherhood legislation waiting to be approved. Notably, there is nothing about the real issues confronting the country. Interest in Canada’s science and industrial development has eluded current House of Commons legislators. At present, there are no MPs who understand the crucial role that applied science can play in the development of Canada. We are lost in space on this file. For example: once a leader in nuclear science and associated industries, today Canada is far behind other nations. A Chinese company has developed a nuclear battery that could keep your phone running for 50 years without recharging. Betavolt Technology claims to have successfully miniaturized atomic energy batteries, with dimensions that measure less than a coin at 15 x 15 x 5mm. The compact battery uses the radioactive isotope Nickel 63 to generate 100 microwatts and a voltage of 3V of electricity through the process of radioactive decay. Betavolt plans to mass-produce them for commercial devices like phones and drones, but also states nuclear batteries could be used for aerospace equipment, medical equipment, advanced sensors and micro-robots. The company is presently working hard to design multiple atomic batteries that could power automotive technology, as well as AI systems just to name a few. The advantages of atomic energy batteries are their lightweight, long service life, high energy density, and ability to work normally under extreme temperatures (-60 to 120oC). The company seems confident that its development is way ahead of European and American scientific research institutions and enterprises. My question: Where is Canada? It is quite clear that politicians invested in costly EV batteries for cars produced by foreign design and with foreign workers on Canadian soil, are not au current. Wouldn’t it be better to support Canadian scientific development? Both for the environment and our economy? No wonder Canada’s economic future looks grim. Lagging productivity means a declining standard of living and the emigration of our best and brightest. Let us face reality; Canada’s per capita GDP has yet to return to its pre-pandemic level. Indeed, it has been declining. The implications of this lack of productivity growth for our long-term standard of living are dire. The reasons for this can be summarized across five closely interconnected areas: unprecedented population growth, capital investment decline, neglected investment in research and development, structural economic issues, and finally, the policy environment. More people could potentially fuel extensive economic growth, but unless capital investment also grows to boost productivity, economic growth will not follow. Given our population growth rates, we would need to devote nearly 30 percent of our GDP to capital formation. That has not happened in Canada since the wheat boom era of the early 1900s—incidentally also the era of Canada’s fastest population growth. However, the quality and composition of investment also matters, and Canada’s spending on research and development as a share of its GDP has been declining for the last two decades. As a share of its GDP, Canada spends about half that of the U.S., spending less than any other G-7 country. How long will that policy keep us in the G-7? Fossilized structural economic issues persist, and despite the country’s population doubling over the last forty years, our markets are apparently still “too small” to allow for more competition. Combine this with provincial and federal implementation and regulatory environments that have raised the cost of starting just about anything, and you have a recipe for long-term economic decay. The final drop in the bucket in explaining our productivity malaise is a Canadian policy environment, which can be described as frozen in space federalism. At its best, Canadian federalism co-ordinates regional economic policies and practices to promote overall Canadian economic performance. At its worst, Canadian federalism can be a petulant collective of myopic jurisdictions operating at cross-purposes that frustrate any attempts at national coordination. Canada’s provinces and the federal government have become increasingly prone to bickering. Canadian federalism in action has Ottawa controlling the levers of immigration and using this power to increase the population to address aging populations and labour shortages. Unfortunately, they have not considered the consequences on health services and housing stock. The provinces control health and education services but in the wake of rising population and demand both sectors are highly stressed and finding it hard to cope. Then there are the municipalities, which control the key levers for land zoning and housing construction. Yet, despite what seems to be a roaring demand for housing, they are moving slowly, if at all. Canada’s economic strategy seems to have focused on increasing population size while assuming that anything needed to boost productivity would simply take care of itself. (Like Trudeau’s budget?) As a result, we now have a growing population and a bigger market but less competition, resulting in higher prices and fewer services. We are spending more on health and education, but reaping hallway health care and students with declining test scores. Are we really getting our money’s worth? The long-term implications of Canada’s falling per capita GDP is a declining standard of living and ultimately the out-migration of the best and brightest. We are on track to becoming a poorer country with a more fractious political system unable to get things done. Is this the country we want for our children?

UNDERSTANDING, EMPLOYERS ARE SKITTISH

Understandably, Employers Are Skittish When Hiring. Job Seekers Need to Ease Their Concerns. By Nick Kossovan 15 years ago (I'm ballparking), employers hired after two or three interviews. Today, it's common to have five to seven interviews. I seldom encounter a job seeker who empathizes with employers and grasps that hiring is a significant risk, thus understanding why employers tend to be skittish when hiring. Employers are risk-averse. Hiring involves assuming a liability risk. Candidates often, without realizing it, present themselves in a way that gives employers the impression that hiring them would be risky. Will the candidate... · be a fit? · be easy to manage? · look after the company's best interest? · make them (the hiring manager) look good? Add to the above the persistent talk of a looming recession, along with AI rapidly advancing; thus, AI may soon be able to fill the current vacancy. It's no wonder why employers are hyper-cautious when hiring. Think AI won't have an impact on jobs? 37% of 750 business leaders surveyed by ResumeBuilder said AI replaced workers in 2023. 44% predict AI efficiency will lead to layoffs in 2024. The good news is that 96% of companies hiring in 2024 say candidates will benefit from having AI skills. In a recent column, I wrote that I consider AI a human replacement tool, not a productivity tool. As AI adoption increases, employers will closely monitor their employees' productivity versus AI's and lean towards which best serves their self-interests. No employer wants to hire a candidate only to let them go a short time later. "Sorry, Bob, the second and third quarters weren't as strong as we'd hoped; unfortunately, we need to let you go." Today's economic and political climate, combined with seismic changes in the psyches of the younger generation, which are adding fuel to the always-existing discourse between employees and employers, explains why employers hire with extreme caution. As a job seeker, you need to figure out ways to present yourself as a candidate who isn't high-risk. Write the following quote on a Post-it Note and place it where you'll see it daily while job hunting. "Business is all about solving people's problems — at a profit." - Paul Marsden, British writer, businessman and former politician. Job searching is about selling yourself as the solution to an employer's problem. What's the employer's problem? Read the job description. Ask yourself: Why does this position exist? Why was it created? When you answer these questions, you are forced to focus on what the employer wants rather than what you want. Instead of focusing on what you want, get deeply and intensely curious about the employer's needs and wants, increasing revenue and reducing costs being the obvious. (READ: creating a profit ) What do you offer employers that are tangible and measurable that'll facilitate their earnings and, therefore, are worth paying for? If an employer hired you, what kind of ROI would they receive? Employers don't give money to their employees because they want it or feel they deserve it. Employers aren't concerned with what their employees want or feel they deserve. Employees are paid by their employers in exchange for results that help them achieve their business goals. You can gain a significant advantage over your competitors by understanding and empathizing with the risks employers take when hiring. "If there is any one secret of success, it lies in the ability to get the other person's point of view and see things from his angle as well as your own." - Henry Ford In a time of economic uncertainty, rapid technological advancement, and cultural fit becoming increasingly important, job seekers need to address these factors directly. · Economic uncertainty Hyperinflation is shifting consumer behaviour. Geopolitical tensions are becoming more pronounced. There's constant talk of a recession looming. We live in an angst-filled world. In order to ease employers' concerns about where the economy is heading, candidates must demonstrate flexible problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. To be seen as someone who can help the company weather difficult times, prepare a couple of STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories demonstrating you have handled challenging situations or helped your employer through tough times. · Technological advancement It's no longer enough to know the basics of Word and Excel. Today, employers expect their employees to be able to proficiently use multiple tech tools, such as data analysis, online collaboration, project management and, of late, AI prompting. Using tech tools (e.g., QR code, Zoom, Slack) throughout your job search shows that you are tech-savvy without having to say so. · Cultural fit The importance of cultural fit is greater than ever. The slightest sign that you won't fit in - you don't align with the company's values, mission, or work culture - will end your candidacy. By researching the organization's culture, mission, and values, you can then position yourself to demonstrate how your values and work style match the organization's mission and culture. Showing enthusiasm for the company's objectives and illustrating experiences (STAR stories) that resonate with its culture will ease employers' concerns about cultural compatibility. Understanding and mitigating employers' hiring concerns will help you stand out in today's fiercely competitive job market. ___________________________________________________________________________ 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

TOMORROW

TOMORROW By Dale Jodoin Picture this: It's the future, and every single car you see is powered by electricity. No more gas stations, just places to charge your car, like a giant phone on wheels. Politicians are pushing hard for this change. They say it's better for the planet, and that sounds great, right? But there's a big issue they're not talking about, and it's something we all need to understand, especially if you're in high school and thinking about the kind of world you'll be living in soon. First, let’s tackle the winter problem. Imagine it's super cold, like 30 degrees below zero. Now, in this electric car future, something weird happens when it gets this cold: electric cars might not work as well. Why? Batteries, like the ones in these cars, don’t like extreme cold. They lose power faster, and sometimes, they just can't handle it. It gets worse. The places where you charge these cars might stop working too. Why? Well, when everyone in town is trying to keep their houses warm, cook dinner, and charge their cars all at the same time, the electricity grid (that's the system that gives us all power) gets overwhelmed. It's like when everyone in your house is trying to use the Wi-Fi at the same time, and it gets really slow, except this is way more serious. In some places, this isn’t just a future problem. It’s happening now. In really cold areas, people are seeing these issues firsthand. If electric cars can't drive because it's too cold, how will people get to work or school? What about getting food delivered to stores? In the worst cases, some people might even get dangerously cold in their homes if the power goes out. But wait, there's more. Think about businesses and jobs. If companies know that their electric trucks can't make deliveries in cold weather, they might decide not to operate in those areas. What does that mean? Fewer jobs, less business, and more problems for people living there. So, why are politicians so focused on pushing for all these electric vehicles without making sure our electricity can handle it? It seems like they’re so excited about the idea of a clean, electric future that they're not stopping to think about these very real problems. In about 30 years, what if places like Russia or the Philippines, who might stick with oil and gas, become more attractive for jobs? They didn’t jump fully into this all-electric idea, so they might not face these same issues. Meanwhile, the politicians who made the all-electric rules might just leave office and not have to deal with the consequences of their decisions. This is where we come in. As students, as future voters, and as people who will live in this world, we need to start asking tough questions. These politicians are making decisions that affect our future, but are they really thinking it through? It's not just about being trendy with technology; it's about making sure these new ideas work for everyone, everywhere, even when it's freezing outside. We need to make sure that the people in charge are planning for things like upgrading our electricity grids so they can handle the extra load, and figuring out how to make electric cars work in the cold. It’s not enough to just say “let's switch to electric cars” without having a solid plan to make sure it all works. It’s super important to start talking about these issues with friends, family, and teachers. Understand the big picture, and when it's time for you to vote, remember these discussions. We should support leaders who think about both the cool new tech and the practical stuff, like making sure we can still get around when it's cold outside. The bottom line is, the future with electric cars can be awesome, but only if we plan it right. It's not just about moving away from gas cars; it's about making sure our future is ready for everything – even a super chilly winter. Let's learn from these challenges and push for a future that's not just cool and electric, but also smart and ready for real-world problems.

ROCKING THE BOAT

Rocking The Boat from Wayne & Tamara I work in a factory, and we have supervisors who play favorites. They have about six girls who can do no wrong, and they have easier jobs than the rest of us. These girls go out after work to bars, and that is why they are in with the supervisors. The boss over these supervisors will not do anything because his boss is the father of one of these supervisors. So long as “Daddy boss” is still there, this boss will not do anything. One girl played around and made the machinery malfunction for an operator, but she didn’t get into trouble because of the favoritism. Do we go to the owner of the company with a complaint on why these bosses will not fix this mess? Carol Carol, we will not tell you that you should go to the owner. What we will tell you is how this usually plays out. Some things are worth doing because you feel they are the right thing to do, even when you know they will not succeed. As a rule, whistleblowers do not succeed. Complaining or whistleblowing makes you the problem, instead of the problem you are calling attention to. Human beings are social animals, and family and social connections in the workplace usually count for more than merit or truth. Truth is very weak. There is nothing pushing it. It can’t stand up to people pushing their own agenda. The one place where truth, fact, and objectivity are supposed to rule is science, but even in science it is a problem. The physicist Max Planck once observed that an important scientific innovation is usually accepted not because people readily accept its truth, but because the older generation of opponents grows old and dies off. Carol, you have three options: you can overlook the unfairness and become immune to it, you can seek other employment, or you can try to fix the problem. Fixing the problem is the solution least likely to occur. In all probability, your workplace is a boat the owner does not want rocked. Wayne & Tamara The Quality Of Mercy I am Ali from Pakistan, and I need your help on a weird issue. First, let me tell you something about me. I am a student of information technology. I am not from a rich family, but our family is a respected one. When I turned 20, I left my family for studies in computer science. Okay, now here started the problem. I used to use the Internet as a resource for knowledge, but two years ago I got free time and started chatting online. I am not very good talking to girls, at least maybe not to the sharp ones. I do not know the exact reason, but one can be that I am a little shy and can’t talk the talk. I met a girl online, and we shared a lot. At least, I did. But I lied to her. Out of nowhere, though, I was in love with her. I told her some mushy lines because it was hurting to think of her not in my life. Then I told her I lied to her. It was a difficult time because she was so angry, but I finally managed to get her mercy. Is she really okay with me? How do we go back to our old chat sessions we both used to enjoy? Ali Ali, Mark Twain said, “If you tell the truth, you don’t have anything to remember.” You also don’t have anything to apologize for or explain away. You may have gained her mercy, but what is the quality of her mercy? Ask yourself how you would feel if she lied to you. Chances are, you would still doubt her. How do you go back to the old familiarity and trust, when that was interwoven with lies? Tamara SEND LETTERS TO: Directanswers@WayneAndTamara.com

Postbiotics for the Gut, Body, and Brain

By Common Sense Health – W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford Last week’s column suggested we are minnows in the grand life adventure. This week we’ll look at little beings in our bellies that seem to have outsized influence. What is it about these microscopic components of the gut-brain connection that leads us to thinking that a postbiotic supplement might be a very good investment. The gut microbiome is like a neighbourhood of friends you carry around in and on your body for your entire life. Just as the environment outside your body and the way you live your life have consequences for your well-being, this gooey world in your gut has enormous impact on your health, from head to toe and cradle to grave. What exactly is it? The gut-brain microbiome refers to a bustling two-way street between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain, fueled in part by the vast community of microorganisms residing in the gut. In 1972, microbiologist Thomas Luckey estimated the human gut is home to 100 trillion microorganisms – bacteria, viruses, fungi, and more. They make mighty contributions to brain health. About 90-95% of the body's serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation, is produced in the gut. Imbalances in the gut microbiome have been linked to various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders. Neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease have also been associated with alterations in the gut microbiota. How they work is being studied, but there seems to be a role in the progression of disease. The gut microbiome, when working well, helps regulate the immune system too by distinguishing between harmful pathogens and beneficial microorganisms. When failing to perform, immune systems weaken, and inflammation goes unchecked. Chronic inflammation could be a sign of an unhealthy gut microbiome. This kind of inflammation has been implicated in various diseases, including those affecting the brain. Understanding this dynamic interplay between the gut and the brain is a rapidly evolving area of research, and there is still much to learn about the specifics of how the microbiome influences brain function and vice versa. However, it is increasingly clear that maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is important for overall health, including for mental and neurological health. Here’s the interesting part. Unlike our lot as minnows in the great ocean of life, we can influence our body’s inner ocean with the right fuel to achieve a better balance in the microbiome. A healthy gut will have ample communities of probiotics (healthy bacteria that convert fiber into beneficial compounds), prebiotics (a group of nutrients, mainly fiber, that feed these healthy bacteria), and postbiotics (bioactive compounds that offer important benefits to your body). A healthy individual eating a diet that includes plenty of fiber and essential nutrients should enjoy a robust, well-functioning gut. But many people are kidding themselves as they consume foods high in animal proteins, sugar, salt, and saturated fat – just the ticket to punish gut bacteria and invite inflammation and chronic disorders. Yet, as healthy food prices remain high, getting enough fiber and optimal nutrition is hard, even if you are trying to make the right choices. Is the cost of a supplement the right investment? If a boost to your microbiome gives you a better chance at reducing the risk of conditions like dementia, it’s money well spent. Postbiotics are a relatively new option, offering targeted formulas that delivery more efficacy in achieving health benefits. Visit your local health food store and find out why experts recommend one product over another. Be sure to purchase from trusted sources offering products containing high quality natural ingredients backed by independent clinical studies.. 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

TALKING CITY OF OSHAWA BY-LAW

Tahir Khorasanee, LL.M. Senior Associate, Steinbergs LLP There is an unprecedent housing crisis in Canada, the interest rate and inflation are the highest they have been in three decades and the City of Oshawa voted down a city-wide extension of the rental housing program. A resolution that targets its working class and the poor, the very people that built this city with their blood, tears and toil. As the winds of economic uncertainty sweep through Oshawa, the residents and concerned citizens, urgently bring forth a plea that transcends signatures on paper – it's a call for empathy, a call for change. At the center of our concerns lies the pressing need to reconsider and abolish the bylaw that prohibits residents from safely renting their basements. Amidst the numerical intricacies and policy debates, it is crucial to remember that behind every statistic, there is a human story. Let's put a face to these statistics. Take, for instance, the Smith family, who, after years of hard work and savings, find themselves on the verge of losing their home due to the skyrocketing interest rates. Or consider Sarah, a single mother desperately searching for an affordable place to rent while fearing eviction from her current residence. In the face of these daunting numbers, the basement rental bylaw stands as an additional barrier to housing security. By prohibiting the safe rental of basements, the bylaw not only exacerbates the challenges faced by struggling homeowners but also displaces renters, pushing them further into the abyss of limited affordable housing options. Meet David, a father of three, who, despite working two jobs, is grappling with the fear of foreclosure. His basement, a potential source of supplemental income, remains locked due to the current bylaw. Or hear the story of Rachel, a recent graduate burdened with student loans, desperately seeking a place she can afford, only to find the doors of available basement units barred. In this time of crisis, abolishing the basement rental bylaw is not just a policy adjustment; it's an act of compassion and shared responsibility. It is an acknowledgment that policies have a profound impact on the lives of real people – people like the Smiths, Sarah, David, and Rachel. The economic challenges facing Oshawa demand innovative solutions. According to recent studies, cities that embrace inclusive housing policies experience not only economic growth but also enhanced community well-being. Abolishing the basement rental bylaw is a step toward fostering an environment that supports housing accessibility for all, regardless of economic status. Oshawa has the opportunity to lead by example, showing that it is possible to balance economic viability with compassion. Let our city be a beacon of change, unlocking doors for its citizens and ensuring a brighter, more equitable future. To advocate for change, please go online and sign this petition: https://www.change.org/p/petition-to-abolish-oshawa-s-basement-rental-bylaw-for-the-sake-of-housing-accessibility?recruiter=625710911&recruited_by_id=6ce68e40-a6d6-11e6-b8a9-e5b88bb72844&utm_source=share_petition&utm_campaign=share_for_starters_page&utm_medium=copylink

THE BUDGET

THE BUDGET By Maurice Brenner Deputy Mayor/Regional Councillor Ward 1 Pickering With the Municipal Budget process now underway across Municipalities across Durham Region, I wanted to focus this weeks column on one of the core services that Municipalities fund. “Public Libraries” and why its so important that this public service is not overlooked. In Ontario, Public Libraries are governed under the Public Libraries Act, while Municipalities appoint Library Boards, the Legislation is designed that they operate independent of the shareholder Municipality that funds them with all services provided free. To access all that is free from a Public Library is to become a member which is free. And with your membership it opens the door to much more than just books. Quoting Albert Einstein “ The only thing that you absolutely have to know, is the location of the library.” If Einstein was alive today, he would have expanded what he meant since Libraries today can be accessed physically or digitally on-line. Libraries throughout history has provided important/creative resources that contributes to experiencing and lifelong long learning and needs to be seen as a community asset filled with , knowledge. So as your Municipality is setting its budgets and you ask yourself why are we using taxpayers money to fund Libraries, Here are some of my thoughts as to what I believe makes them a worthwhile investment. 1. Libraries contributes to local businesses by creating opportunities through services like maker space and abilities to access free computers and access to the internet. It provides forums to host business meetings in a private digital work space. 2. It has a data base made up of its members that enables ongoing feedback, it utilizes community outreach programs in parks, shopping facilities and events that the Municipality offers. Librarians do not just shuffle books but performs miracles daily through their wisdom. 3. Libraries are the keepers of history, be it books, magazines and what is now becoming extinct newspaper archives. 4. While the Internet can deliver real time information, it does not provide context. Libraries provide tools to evaluate information enabling their members to dig deeper into topics to understand the complexity of issues with up-to-date information. Libraries offers choices. 5. Even with technological advances, Books continue to be major reason to visit the library – whether those books are print, audio, large print, or other formats. 6. Libraries offer a range of programs for everyone such as children’s story time, makerspaces that provides creative learning opportunities, places to stimulate the minds of older adults. Libraries are a complete free community resource. 7. Libraries offer free use of computers and wifi,which enables barrier free access and ability to research, and apply for jobs, 8. Accessibility. Libraries are barrier free , a place (physical and virtual) to access information that keeps members informed 9. In many Municipalities, Libraries provide public service such as warming areas, and places to host hot meals for those that are homeless So this year while financial resources continues to be a challenge for all of us, let’s not forget about our Public Libraries and why this Free Public Service continues to need Municipal funding for its day to day operations. Libraries are more than just bricks and mortar.