Showing posts with label #Central. Show all posts
Showing posts with label #Central. Show all posts
Saturday, January 18, 2025
Durham MP calls for protection of Christians in Canada
Durham MP calls for
protection of Christians in Canada
By Sami Parvez
In May 2024, Jamal Jivani, 37, was elected as the member of Parliament for Durham in a by-election, replacing former Conservative leader Erin O’Toole, who stepped down in August 2023. Jivani has been a vocal for protecting Christians and their rights in Canada.
In a video posted on X (formerly Twitter), Durham MP Jamal Jivani called on Canadians to sign a petition addressing what he described as government inaction in the face of increasing threats to Christian communities.
In Canada, Christians are facing backlash while the government turns a blind eye. This comes despite more than 19.3 million Canadians identifying as Christian—53 per cent of the population, according to the 2021 census.
"I'm sounding the alarm,” Jivani said in the video posted on X. “We need to do more to protect Christians in Canada,”
The MP’s call comes amidst growing concerns over vandalism and arson targeting churches, as well as debates surrounding religious freedoms and parental rights and growing influence of the LGBTQ2S+ movement.
Jivani criticized the federal government in a video posted on X, for its perceived failure to address these issues, questioning its commitment to safeguarding Christian heritage. He also raised alarm over what he described as a “crime spree” targeting places of worship, emphasizing the need to protect the freedom of expression for Christian churches.
Durham MP expressed concerns in his video about the federal government's failure to defend parental rights and Christian values. He emphasized the need to protect mothers and fathers, conscience rights for workers, and to address crimes targeting churches, such as arson and vandalism.
It is uncommon for a Muslim MP to advocate for the protection of Christianity, as Muslims rarely speak out on behalf of other religious groups, particularly Christians. Some Islamic scholars argue that saying "Merry Christmas" implies endorsing the belief that "God has a son," which conflicts with Islamic teachings. For this reason, they consider it prohibited, as it is seen as celebrating the son of God.
Christianity has been under threat in Canada since Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took office, with the Christmas season increasingly referred to as the holiday season. In 2021, the discovery of unmarked graves at former residential school sites sparked national outrage, leading to more than 100 churches being burned or vandalized.
At the time, Trudeau told media, “I understand the anger that’s out there against the federal government, against institutions like the Catholic Church. It is real and it’s fully understandable, given the shameful history that we are all becoming more and more aware of and engaging ourselves to do better as Canadians.”
In 2009, Durham Region experienced a troubling rise in church vandalism and arson, affecting historic and cherished landmarks. All Saints’ Anglican Church in Whitby, a 144-year-old structure, faced repeated vandalism before being destroyed by a suspicious fire, with damages estimated at $2-3 million. Investigators found a gas canister at the scene. Similarly, St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church in Oshawa was ravaged by a Christmas Day fire with multiple points of origin, suspected to be motivated by religious bigotry. These attacks left congregations grappling with emotional pain, financial strain, and displacement, highlighting the urgent need for community vigilance.
“Now when you see a Christmas tree like this in Parliament you might think that's a sign of respect for Christians,” Durham MP said in the video. “But what good is a Christmas tree here in Parliament when you have a federal government that will not lift a finger to protect Christians from governments and corporations abusing their power?”
According to the International Prayer Connect (IPC), a global network of over 4,500 Christian prayer and mission networks and organizations, in 2019, Trudeau told Pastor Steve Long, a Canadian Baptist minister, 'Evangelical Christians were the worst part of Canadian society.” The remark continues to fuel distrust among Evangelical groups toward Trudeau's government."
“We have to stop the crime spree targeting churches including arson and vandalism,” Conservative MP added in the video. “And we need to defend the legal status of Christian Charities and the freedom of expression of Christian churches.”
“This is not about forcing other people to live according to Christian values no this is about whether Christians in Canada have the freedom to live according to their own traditions and to practice their own faith without corporations and governments engaging in overreach.”
Durham MP is urging Canadians to take action by signing a petition on one of his sites.
The petition, aimed at protecting Christian rights and heritage, will be presented at an event in Ottawa in February 2025.
“This is not about forcing others to live according to Christian values,” Jivani said in the video. “This is about whether Christians in Canada have the freedom to live according to their own traditions and practice their faith without corporations and governments overreaching.”
Jivani emphasized the need to stop crimes targeting churches and defend the legal status of Christian charities, urging Canadians to stand united in protecting their rights and freedoms.
When Job You Are Being Compared
When Job You Are Being 
Compared
By Nick Kossovan
Job hunting is a 'winner takes all' competition in which you're compared and judged against other applicants. Putting in an application for a job is no different from entering a baking or short story contest. However, there's one difference: there's no second place—silver medal—nor does "everyone wins for doing their best," hence why giving participation trophies does a disservice to children; it fails to prepare them for two universal life truths that they’ll one day confront:
1. Everything in life is earned. (Yes, birthright exceptions exist. Choosing to squander your time and energy, resenting those who're an exception doesn't change this truism.), and
2. Sometimes, your best isn't good enough to beat those you're up against.
Job searching intensifies these truths.
Irrespective of your feelings about the "fairness" of having to do "what it takes," you don't rise through the ranks of whatever career path you've chosen by being meek. Be it corporate, artistic endeavours, athletics or military, without a competitive spirit, you won't have a career comparable to someone who does. Thus, generally (keyword) speaking, CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, higher-ranking military officers, celebrities and elite athletes tend to be hyper-competitive.
I keep the following phrase from American author Ashley Antoinette in my head: "You can't compete where you don't compare."
When entering any competition, for instance, job searching, it's crucial to understand the standards and benchmarks—your ego may insist you have the skills and qualifications, do you?—against which you'll be compared; therefore, consider the following:
· Awareness of standards
Knowing and accepting what employers in your profession and industry will most likely expect from you is critical.
If you're applying for any job requiring strong writing skills (e.g., grant writer, content creator, communications manager), it's a given that your writing skills need to be well above average. When applying for a sales position, your sales record and ability to sell yourself will be evaluated.
Along with industry and profession expectations, employers evaluate applicants based on the expectation of applying professionally.
I repeatedly see sloppy applications and an unprofessional appearance as the biggest hindrance to a successful job search. Even with all the online job search advice, typos, grammatical errors, incomplete LinkedIn profiles, and dressing inappropriately for interviews—dress for the position you're interviewing for—are common. In 2025, there's still a strong conservative element in the workplace, albeit not as strong as before.
· Self-Assessment
You can identify your strengths and weaknesses by honestly comparing yourself to those you're competing against. My advice: To be competitive and considered a contender, focus on your strengths (read: lead with) and be less concerned about your weaknesses.
My "go with your strengths" story:
Years ago, over a Thai lunch, I asked my then-boss how he managed to work so fluidly. He never seemed stressed; it was as if he floated through his workday, accomplishing high-level tasks. His answer: "I work with my strengths. As long as my weaknesses do not hinder me from doing my job, I don't spend time and energy trying to overcome them. I spend my time and energy improving my strengths." The food wasn't memorable, but my then-boss's words were. As a result of ignoring my non-detrimental weaknesses and focusing on my strengths, I've become a stronger competitor and have benefited from it.
· Strategic positioning
Knowing where you stand in relation to your competitors helps you improve your strategy.
The words uttered by another ex-boss during what I think was a friendly dust-up some 20 years ago, "There's always someone younger, more skilled, and hungrier than you," have stayed with me all these years. His words remind me that I must always be at least one step ahead of those nipping at my heels. I've seen many careers implode because the person rested on their laurels.
It's surprising how many people don't try to stay relevant by learning and becoming proficient in the technological advances affecting their profession and industry, AI being the latest.
Demonstrating continuous learning and adaptation is what employers like to see in candidates and their employees.
Always know where your skills and experience stand and what you can offer employers in terms of measurable value. Calling yourself "talent," as many nowadays do without quantifying how your "supposed talent" will make money for an employer, isn't a compelling argument for why an employer should hire you.
I hear from many job seekers experiencing the "Silver Medal Curse," where they land interviews and then hear, "We went with someone else."
Clearly, their resume and LinkedIn profile are competitive, which anyone can achieve with all the resume help available. However, one thing no one can do for you is your interviews, the meetings where the hiring manager assesses your suitability for the position and the company and compares you to the other candidates they're interviewing.
My tip to make your interviewer see you as a contender for the job is to prepare specific examples that showcase your skills and achievements, aligning them with the job requirements. The best strategy for beating your competition is to show employers that you are a winner who has produced measurable value (key) for your previous employers.
_____________________________________________________________________
Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned veteran of the corporate landscape, offers advice on searching for a job. You can send him your questions at artoffindingwork@gmail.com
Why Pickering Needs to Rethink Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Programs: A Call for Common Sense
Why Pickering Needs to Rethink Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Programs:
A Call for Common Sense
By Lisa Robinson
At the May 6th, 2024 Executive Meeting, I stood alone in voting against forcing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs and policies on the City of Pickering. At the time, I cautioned my fellow council members and city staff that DEI was facing bans in some U.S. states due to its divisive nature and inefficiency. Now, just months later, my concerns have proven valid. DEI programs have spiraled into a bureaucratic nightmare—wasting taxpayer dollars, sowing division, and replacing practical governance with ideological agendas.
While I stood firm in opposing these policies, all three of my colleagues present at that meeting were actively pushing to accelerate the implementation of the DEI program. Meanwhile, some of the world’s largest and most successful companies like McDonald’s, Walmart, Boeing, Molson-Coors, Ford, Jack Daniel’s, John Deere, Lowe’s, Harley-Davidson, Meta, and Amazon, are abandoning DEI initiatives. Why? Because these programs don’t work. They create division, invite lawsuits, alienate customers, and fuel tensions among employees. If industry giants with global operations recognize the harm caused by DEI, why is Pickering still embracing it?
The slogan “go woke, go broke” has become more than a catchy phrase—it’s a reality. Time and again, businesses and organizations that prioritize ideological agendas over quality, fairness, and merit end up facing backlash from consumers and stakeholders. Just look at the numerous companies that have lost market share, tarnished their reputations, or faced significant public criticism for going too far with divisive DEI initiatives. DEI is not the cure-all it was once marketed as; instead, it is a framework that too often prioritizes optics over outcomes and division over unity.
In Pickering, we’re already seeing the cracks. DEI policies don’t just fail to address the root causes of inequality—they create new problems. By categorizing people based on their identity rather than their character or qualifications, these programs foster resentment and suspicion. No one should be hired based on the color of their skin, their religious beliefs, or their sexual preferences. When you board a plane or go into surgery, do you want to be wondering if the pilot or surgeon was hired because of DEI quotas, or because they were the best person for the job? Competence and merit should always come first.
These policies also breed inefficiency. The introduction of costly DEI officers, training sessions, and consultants eats away at our city budget, diverting funds that could be spent on tangible improvements for our residents. Do we want a city that prioritizes ideological box-checking over fixing our roads, supporting small businesses, and investing in public safety? Residents are already stretched thin by rising costs of living. They deserve to see their hard-earned tax dollars go toward initiatives that make Pickering a better, safer, and more prosperous place—not divisive policies that sow confusion and mistrust.
Let’s be clear not to twist my words. I’m not advocating for the exclusion of anyone. What I’m saying is that we should be focusing on unity and inclusion through fairness and common sense—not through bureaucratic, expensive programs that polarize our community. A city should serve its residents by providing effective services and fostering real opportunities for everyone, not by lecturing and training them on identity politics.
Following our January 27th virtual council meeting, I will give notice of a notice of motion to halt DEI programs and policies in Pickering and block using your tax dollars to hire a nearly One Hundred Thousand Dollar a year DEI officer. It’s time we prioritize fiscal responsibility and practical governance over ideological fads. The divisive nature of DEI is clear, and the evidence from the corporate world shows us that it doesn’t lead to success—it leads to failure.
Time to focus on real issues like homelessness, rebuilding infrastructure, fostering economic growth, lowering property taxes, the reckless spending of your tax dollars, and ensuring the safety of our neighborhoods, to name a few. These are the issues that matter to Pickering residents, not divisive and expensive programs that pit people against one another.
Time to learn from the mistakes of others. The corporate world is moving away from DEI because it has proven to be a failure. It’s time for Pickering to follow suit and focus on what truly matters. The people of Pickering. By redirecting our resources and efforts, we can build a city that works for everyone—not just those pushing ideological agendas.
I encourage you to review the May 6th meeting on Youtube yourself to see where I stood on this issue. The link is provided for full transparency.
I am Lisa Robinson, the People’s Councillor, and I remain committed to advocating for policies and change that serve our city and its people—not empty agendas that divide and control us. Time to rebuild trust in our community.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iokQOZP4ezs
Canada’s Military Decline
Canada’s Military Decline
by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC,
FEC, CET, P. Eng.
Former Member of Parliament
Pickering-Scarborough East
We are now a few days from the inauguration of the second Trump presidency in the United States and Canada will probably be affected by it in a not very positive way due to the threat of the 25% tariff and a neglect on the part of Canada to secure its borders. We are also in the process of a liberal party leadership contest, which will end with a new Canadian Prime Minister albeit for a short period before a general election.
Most of the issues that Canada has in the new geopolitical context is due to the neglect of its manufacturing industry, scientific innovations and a total disregard for strengthening the capacity of its border controls, especially in the Arctic. To defend the borders and the Arctic you need a flexible organization ready to deploy on short notice and capable of responding decisively to any threat to our suzerainty.
This organization is the Armed Forces, which has been neglected for decades now in Canada, by politicians of all stripes. Well, our neighbor south of the border no longer wants to pay for the defence of Canada and justly asks us for the contribution due for Canada’s defence.
Therefore, our politicians will need to move fast, taking responsible and effective action. Lip service will no longer suffice.
The current situation of our Armed Forces, as I have repeatedly said, is deplorable, and the politicians of this country will be forced to deal with it soon, like it or not.
Despite commitments to NATO and promises of increased defence spending, Canada remains far below the alliance’s 2% GDP benchmark, leaving its Armed Forces underfunded and ill-equipped. Strategic regions like the Arctic are increasingly vulnerable to threats from Russia and China due to unfulfilled modernization plans.
A mix of lofty rhetoric and lackluster follow-through has marked the last Liberal Government in particular. This was very evident in the realm of national defence and security. When it comes to protecting Canada’s strategic interests, the Liberal government under Trudeau’s leadership has proven to be among the weakest of any modern Prime Minister.
However, there is no excuse for the previous Conservative government either, which vacillated to approve, when it had the tools, the acquisition of the F35s ten years ago. That was a clear sign of the continued neglect of the needs of the Armed Forces.
The inability of several governments in succession, to replace aging equipment, from fighter jets to naval vessels, and modern land fighting vehicles has left the Canadian Armed Forces struggling to fulfill even its most basic responsibilities.
For a country with vast territorial waters, an increasingly contested Arctic, and a close partnership with the United States, this neglect is indefensible.
The Arctic, in particular, stands as a glaring symbol of the Trudeau Liberal government’s shortcomings, when he had the opportunity to correct the unfulfilled promises of the previous Conservative government. The region is critical to Canada’s sovereignty and security, yet the government has done little to assert control over this strategically vital area. As Russia and China ramp up their presence in the Arctic, Canada’s capabilities remain woefully inadequate.
Promises of bolstered Arctic patrols and modernized icebreakers have largely gone unfulfilled, as well as building a deep port in the Arctic, leaving Canada vulnerable in a region that is rapidly becoming a focal point of great-power competition. If sovereignty is defined by the ability to project power and influence within one’s own borders, then Canada has fallen short especially under the Trudeau government.
Equally troubling is the state of Canada’s broader strategic posture. Trudeau’s government has often appeared more concerned with projecting an image of Canada as a moral beacon than with addressing hard security realities. This has led to a pattern of overpromising and under delivering.
While Trudeau’s government released a defense policy in 2017 that committed to “Strong, Secure, Engaged,” the actual implementation of this strategy has been halting at best. The policy called for significant investments in personnel, equipment, and capabilities, yet the funding and political will to follow through have been sorely lacking. The result is a Canadian military that is overstretched, under-resourced, and increasingly irrelevant on the global stage.
The most damning critique of Trudeau’s approach to national security lies in his failure to understand that defense and sovereignty are not optional luxuries but core responsibilities of the state. This misunderstanding is evident in the government’s repeated delays and mismanagement of defence procurement projects. From the botched effort to replace the CF-18 fighter jets to the prolonged and still-unresolved plans for new naval vessels, Trudeau’s government has shown a stunning lack of urgency.
These delays not only weaken Canada’s military capabilities but also signal to allies and adversaries alike that Canada is not serious about its defence commitments.
At a time when the alliance is facing renewed threats from Russia and an increasingly assertive China, Canada’s underperformance is more than an embarrassment; it is a liability. The same can be said for Canada’s defence relationship with the United States. As Washington grows increasingly focused on great-power competition, Canada risks being seen as a weak link in the North American defence partnership.
In assessing Trudeau’s legacy, it is tempting to focus on his strengths as a communicator and his ability to project Canada as a progressive, outward-looking nation. Yet these qualities cannot obscure the reality that his record on national defence and security has been deeply flawed. For all his talk of Canada’s role as a global leader, Trudeau has neglected the fundamental building blocks of sovereignty and security. His tenure has left Canada less prepared, less capable, and less credible in a world that is growing more dangerous by the day.
Justin Trudeau’s time as Prime Minister will likely be remembered for many things, but his handling of national defence and security will not be among his proudest achievements.
While he has occasionally articulated a compelling vision for Canada’s place in the world, his government has consistently failed to back that vision with the necessary resources and resolve.
In this sense, Trudeau has not only failed to deliver on his promises but also failed the fundamental test of leadership: the ability to protect and advance the national interest.
Let us hope that the next liberal leader and incoming Prime Minister will have some new ideas for protecting and making Canada proud again.
The future-in-the-making will soon be revealed.
Saturday, January 11, 2025
The Home Inspection
2025 Job Market: What Is Not Changing
-18 my heart aches
Outbreak of Respiratory Illness in China: What You Need to Know
Monday, January 6, 2025
First time home buyers
First time home 
buyers
By Theresa Grant - Real Estate Columnist
Ah, the first-time home buyer. A special breed. Joyful, optimistic, eager yet hesitant at the same time. Given the price of real estate these days, first time home buyers come in all different age ranges. Years ago, your typical first timer would be in their late twenties to mid thirties. Now it’s not uncommon to find first timers in their forties and fifties. There is also a situation that qualifies some as first-time home buyers even if they have owned a home previously. If you have owned a home previously but have not owned a home in the last five years, you qualify as a first-time home buyer. Younger first timers need a little more guidance than their older counterparts to know the right questions to ask and what should be top concerns when walking through a potential contender for their first home purchase. That may be simply that older home buyers may have lived in newer and older houses and know what they may contend with a homeowner. We think back to the houses we grew up in and remember certain characteristics of that house and can compare and ask questions based on that. Some however, grew up in apartments and that gives them a different set of questions and concerns. It is always recommended regardless of how many times you’ve purchased a home that you have a home inspection from a qualified home inspector. That can provide you with peace of mind when it comes to anything that may be hidden from plain view. Problems with moisture or foundation are good examples of something that may be hidden or somewhat hidden for the average person just taking a walk through the property. Some things that a first-time home buyer may overlook can seem common and others may wonder how that could not be addressed or overlooked however, when you are out looking at homes certain things can just escape you. This can be due to excitement or being completely enamoured with a property. I find that some of my first time homebuyers will get into a property and be completely taken aback at the fact that they have qualified for such a nice place and may overlook some pretty important facts. On the whole, house hunting can be somewhat overwhelming, and it doesn’t hurt to bring a detached person with you to point out things that you may be overlooking or that simply didn’t occur to you. I remember going through a property with home buyers and the houses were so close together there was really no where to put the snow. When I asked the potential home buyer where they would put the snow, they responded with shock and dismay because it was mid June with no though to where one might put the shovelled snow. First time homebuyers are gearing up for a busy 2025 and will make up a huge percentage of home buyers next year. With this in mind, if you are planning on buying a home next year as rates are expected to continue to drop, it may be a good idea to have a list of questions with you. As well, make a list of things that are important to you like electrical outlets in certain rooms so you can remember to check them.
A friend, parent or sibling is always a welcome additionon tours and can prove very beneficial. How ever you want to approach it, a little preparation can go a long way in the house hunt.
Questions? Column ideas? You can email me at newspaper@ocentral.com
Opinion: The Mayor’s Fear-Mongering and Lies Have Gone Too Far
Opinion:
The Mayor’s
Fear-Mongering and Lies Have Gone Too Far
By Lisa Robinson
The propaganda machine at the City of Pickering is in overdrive, spinning a narrative of fear and intimidation to justify their increasingly authoritarian decisions. The recent video released by the Mayor and the corporation of the city is not only laughable but deeply insulting to anyone with a shred of critical thinking skills. Let’s dissect this farce for what it is: a blatant attempt to silence dissent, consolidate power, and rig the democratic process.
First, let’s address the Mayor’s glaring inability to keep his story straight. In a statement to Global News, he admitted that the city planned to move to virtual meetings for a year starting this summer due to council chamber renovations. Yet, in the same breath, the city releases a propaganda video claiming the shift to virtual meetings is necessary because of threats and fear for safety. Which is it, Mr. Mayor? If the chambers were under renovation all along, why weaponize the narrative of fear to justify this move? The contradiction is glaring, and the manipulation is appalling.
Now, let’s tackle the absurdity of the fear narrative itself. If the Mayor and council were genuinely terrified for their safety, would they bring their wives, children, and even the Mayor’s 8-year-old granddaughter to council meetings? Let’s not forget their enthusiastic attendance at public events, store openings, and photo ops – all without a police presence. It’s clear they don’t believe their own fabricated story. This is nothing more than a cheap ploy to garner sympathy and support for their oppressive agenda.
And that agenda? It’s as transparent as it is dangerous. Pickering’s council has been tirelessly lobbying Premier Ford and Minister Calandra to amend the Municipal Act, giving them the power to remove an elected official and bar them from running in subsequent elections. Let’s call this what it is: election tampering. It’s an attempt to eliminate political opponents and rig the democratic process to maintain their grip on power. This is not governance; this is authoritarianism dressed up in the guise of public safety.
Adding insult to injury, when I brought forward a notice of motion to move our 2 PM executive meetings to 7 PM to promote public engagement, the Mayor shut it down, saying he’d rather have all meetings during the day. Public transparency? Not on this council’s watch. The Mayor himself has been caught watching Monday night sports during council sessions, demonstrating just how seriously he takes his responsibilities. It’s no wonder he’s pushing for online meetings – they offer a convenient way to mute dissent, turn off mics, and avoid accountability.
The hypocrisy here is staggering. While pretending to care about public safety, this council is actively perpetuating a toxic environment of fear and intimidation. They’ve sent trespass notices to grandmothers, stationed 14 police officers at meetings with low attendance, and painted critics as dangerous threats. It’s the classic “boy who cried wolf” fable, only now it’s taxpayers who foot the bill for this sham. Meanwhile, actual crimes in Pickering go unattended as police are diverted to guard council chambers against nonexistent dangers.
Finally, let’s not overlook the timing of this shift to virtual meetings. Conveniently, the Mayor is now off on a month-long vacation. What better time to avoid scrutiny and public engagement than when you’re sipping cocktails in some far-off destination? It’s a disgraceful display of arrogance and contempt for the people of Pickering.
The people deserve better than this circus of lies, fear-mongering, and self-serving manipulation. It’s time for accountability. The Mayor and council must be held responsible for their blatant disregard for democracy, their misuse of public resources, and their shameless attempts to silence those who dare to speak out. Pickering, you deserve leaders who fight for you, not against you.
I’m Councillor Lisa Robinson, and I will not be silenced.
Jobseekers Need to Learn to ‘Move On’
Jobseekers Need to Learn
to ‘Move On’
By Nick Kossovan
Everyone knows ghosting and rejection are inherent parts of job searching. Yet, job seekers waste vast amounts of energy and time lamenting what they can't control. There's a prevalent sense of entitlement that employers owe job seekers, which goes against the universal truth that nobody is owed anything, be it a job, to make a living or even happiness.
Job searching, regardless of the economic climate, has always required resilience. The key to resilience is having realistic expectations, such as understanding that employers you don't work for don't owe you anything. Having a 'F*ck it!' mindset that empowers you to move on quickly, so you find sooner rather than later that employer who 'gets you' and is willing to hire you is how you foster resilience.
· Ghosted: You didn't get the job. Move on.
· You didn't hear from an employer after submitting your resume: There were candidates with more relevant experience and were a better cultural fit. Move on
· When a networking reach out attempt fails: A stranger isn't willing to drop everything to help you. Move on.
· Not taking down a job posting: Some people never take down their Christmas decorations. If a job can be left open for a significant amount of time, assume it isn't critical. Do you want a non-critical or non-essential job? Move on.
Wishing how hiring should be won't get you a job.
Getting frustrated and angry at how an employer designed their hiring process won't get you a job.
Getting upset over being ghosted—it wasn't the employer who ghosted you; it was an employee whose behaviour doesn't speak for an entire company who ghosted you—won't get you a job.
Life is too short to spend time and energy dwelling on "what could have been" and "whys." This is especially true regarding things out of your control, such as how an employer designs their hiring process or runs their business. The most common false belief I repeatedly see people hold, and which causes much of their frustrations and anger, is that they can change other people's behaviour—as if it's their place to do so.
While it's natural to feel disheartened, it's crucial to understand that wallowing in the many disappointments you'll experience throughout your job search and believing you can control other people's behaviour hinders your progress.
When you invest your heart and soul into an application only to be met with silence or rejection, it's easy to spiral into self-doubt. Consider why you're giving a hiring manager—a stranger—influence over your self-esteem. Hence why I recommend embracing a 'F*ck it!' mindset as a defence against rejection eroding your confidence.
I've been rejected many times more than I've been accepted. I've learned the hard way, a running theme throughout my life, that if I permit it to do so, repeated rejection triggers a cycle of negative thinking that paralyzes me, regardless of whether I'm searching for work, submitting my writing, or reaching out to someone hoping to form a relationship. Dwelling on past disappointments sabotages future opportunities.
There are many reasons why quickly moving on, as opposed to wallowing, playing the "I'm a victim!" card, getting angry, or venting on LinkedIn and other social media platforms—which is never a good look—benefits your job search.
1. There's no shortage of opportunities.
In several previous columns, I've mentioned that opportunities are all around you, with one caveat: they're attached to people. In 2024, employers are turning to their employees for referrals since job postings result in avalanches of applications, predominantly from job seekers who spray and pray. This underscores the importance of networking rather than applying to online job listings.
Clinging to rejections, being ghosted, or whatever is frustrating you is wasting mental energy you could be using to speak to people who may be able to refer you to job openings where they work. Starting right now, shift your focus away from past disappointments—forget about them, what's done is done, you can't change the past—and focus on future possibilities aligned with your skills and aspirations and start making it a point to meet people, because you never know what opportunities they may be attached to.
2. Much of the hiring process is out of your control.
In the same way that you can't control the behaviour of others, you can't control how an employer hires. Many factors influence hiring decisions, notably internal politics and team dynamics. Instead of internalizing these setbacks, remind yourself of your skills, experiences, and past achievements.
3. Not quickly moving on is counterproductive.
Dwelling on why you were ghosted or didn't get the job—instances in which you'll never know the actual reason—drains your energy, energy better spent on proactive measures to enhance your candidacy for future roles.
The key to a successful job search is to keep moving forward and stay focused on what you can control, such as optimizing your LinkedIn profile—arguably the most critical tool in a job seeker's arsenal—resume and expanding your network to take advantage of all the opportunities around you.
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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
Canada looking forward to 2025
Canada looking
forward to 2025
by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC,
FEC, CET, P. Eng.
Former Member of Parliament
Pickering-Scarborough East
The year just beginning could be an interesting one, with turning points in politics, economics and culture, provided that common sense and moral clarity prevails both at home and abroad.
Frankly, the geopolitical situation in the world is most concerning. The two regional wars in Ukraine and Gaza have the potential to spread, provoking direct confrontation between NATO and the western democracies in general, versus Russia, Iran, North Korea and China.
Ukraine now stands to lose significant international interest and support. In the United States in particular, it has become a distant second (and increasingly third or lower) policy priority with the new Trump administration becoming more and more skeptical about offering further help. The conflict is likely to escalate with unforeseen consequences.
In the conflict between Israel, Hamas and Hezbolah there is no obvious way to end the fighting and the collapse of Syria’s Bashar government is adding to the chaos. Whatever the military outcome, a dramatic increase in radicalization is a certainty. On the one hand, the Israeli Jews feel globally isolated and even hated after facing the worst violence against them since the Holocaust. On the other hand, the Palestinians face what they consider a genocide. With scarce opportunities for peace and no prospect of escape, this situation has the potential of developing into a wider conflict in the region.
Deep and dangerous political divisions over the conflict permeate the Middle East, engulfing over one billion people in the broader Muslim world, not to mention the United States and Europe.
New and problematic situations are developing in the Arabian Sea, in South America between Venezuela and Guyana, not to mention the increasing tensions in the South China Sea.
None of these major military conflicts has adequate guardrails to prevent them from getting worse. What is most problematic is that none of the belligerents agrees on what they are fighting over.
Upcoming elections in 2025 pose additional challenges in Canada. Fully one-third of the global population will go to the polls this year. However, in terms of world security, stability and economic outlook, the new Trump administration in the US, with its 25% import tariff on the horizon will pose the most consequential challenge by far.
In the face of all this turmoil, Canada has generally been missing in action on the international scene. Even worse, our country has sometimes undermined its own international standing.
Sitting at the international table requires a moral compass, professionalism, determination and military self sufficiency. A military free-rider will not be tolerated for long. Canada’s decision to act as a self-important virtue-signaller irritates allies who must shoulder our share of the burden, as well as third-world countries who see Canada’s posturing as post-colonial arrogance.
On the domestic scene, Canada is facing a challenging year both economically and politically. There is a real prospect of recession and a future depreciation of the standard of living unless drastic measures are taken. The Liberal government seems to have lost its direction. Overwhelmed by the issues, it seems to have no solution for upcoming events, and continues to be influenced by the policies of the World Economic Forum (WEF).
The World Economic Forum, which will meet in mid January, continues to try to influence global governmental, industrial and social agendas. Its “Great Reset” envisages a new economic and social order based on a futuristic globalist approach that would reduce national interests through pervasive oversight mechanisms, including central bank digital currencies. In essence, it is encouraging woke social and economic policies in order to implement a new futuristic globalist world order following a trend in line with “deja vue” fake Marxist theories but far more sophisticated and deceptive.
Forum chairman Klaus Schwab has assured elite Davos attendees that “The future belongs to us”. Comforting words for those jealously guarding their influence and accustomed to ignoring rules that apply only to the plebe.
Chrystia Freeland and Mark Carney are on the WEF board of trustees and Justin Trudeau’s Liberal party certainly reflects its centre-left technocratic view. However, the sudden resignation of Chrystia Freeland as Finance Minister and deputy Prime Minister has thrown the governing Liberal Party
in turmoil and is challenging the leadership of Prime Minister Trudeau with unknown consequences.
On the economic front, Canadians’ personal prosperity, as measured by GDP per capita, is projected to continue to decline this year by more than two per cent.
To address affordability and the dismal outlook for long-term productivity, the federal government needs to shift focus from identity politics and climate obsession to economic growth, fiscal responsibility and raising Canadians’ standard of living.
In the hope that this year will be a better one and our politicians will put the national interest and the wellbeing of our citizens in the forefront, let us be optimistic. The year has just started.
I hope you will take all these thoughts in the spirit they are intended: We have entered a year of grave concern, but let us be supported by the hope that tough times bring out the best in us.
Happy New Year 2025!
Saturday, December 28, 2024
The Times They Are a Changing
The Times They Are a
Changing
By Theresa Grant - Real Estate Columnist
The Real Estate market is a dynamic entity, continuously shifting between favouring buyers and sellers. Durham Region has been in a balanced market for quite some time now. In fact some would say that the market in Durham Region has been soft, quiet, weak. Any way you want to put it, houses have been sitting on the market in many cases, for months before selling or terminating with a thought to try listing again in a stronger market.
Houses that are priced properly right out of the gate tend to sell quickly and still do. The would-be buyers have certainly sent a message to the sellers that they are not willing to pay more than the actual value of the home. Unfortunately, some home sellers are still stuck in the Covid craziness days and think that people are going to pay well more than what the house is worth. Another thing that potential home buyers have sent a strong message to the home sellers on is the idea of holding offers. Having a presentation date is not really effective when the buyers aren’t buying to begin with. Numerous houses have had their presentation date come and go with either no offers or low offers, but not high enough to seal a deal. The whole idea of an offer presentation date is to garner as much interest in the property as possible, bring in as many offers at one time as you can, as this benefits the seller client.
We are seeing more and more listings saying, “offers anytime”, just like it used to be prior to Covid. I don’t think the offer presentation is going anywhere; I think that it is only effective in a seller’s market and that people will eventually understand that.
With the Bank of Canada continuing to cut rates, Many will stay firmly planted on the sidelines, where they’ve been for a couple of years now. They will patiently wait for the news that the rates have hit rock bottom and then plan their jump into the market. The only problem with that is that when the rates finally hit rock bottom, the house prices will have risen considerably. Most analysts expect the Bank of Canada to cut through 2025.
There is a sweet spot in the market right now and many buyers are taking advantage of this window of opportunity. Houses that have been sitting on the market for four, five, and even six months are now being snapped up. Buyers that thought they had time to look at a house, think about it and view it again before making a decision are finding that they don’t have that luxury at all in a lot of cases.
I know a young couple looking for their first home and they are having their viewings cancelled because the house they were going to look at, that has been on the market for four months has just sold. This has happened to them in a few times. This indicates that the market is starting to tighten up. Inventory is really starting to move. It will be very interesting to see what 2025 holds in store for the Durham Region market.
Questions? Column ideas? You can email me at newspaper@ocentral.com
Job Seekers: Be Clear on Your “Secret Sauce”
Job Seekers:
Be Clear on Your
“Secret Sauce”
By Nick Kossovan
Most job seekers present themselves to employers as a jack of all trades, master of none, when they should be presenting a unique set of skills.
You think you’re talented.
Everyone you’re up against thinks they’re talented.
What makes you special?
When you apply for a job, possessing the necessary skills and qualifications is not enough. You need to find ways to differentiate yourself; otherwise, you will blend in with the other job seekers you're competing against.
The key to differentiating yourself and rising above all the noise so you're seen and heard rather than ignored lies in your "secret sauce"—the unique skills, experiences, and attributes that make you one-of-a-kind. Thus, you become what most job seekers aren't: memorable.
Asking yourself the following questions will help you define your secret sauce:
1. In my current or previous positions, what were my favourite tasks?
For the most part, we enjoy activities we're good at (e.g., working with numbers, designing costumes, conducting research, organizing events, writing blogs) because our inherent strengths and aptitudes create a natural talent for the activity, thereby making it enjoyable since you’re not fighting who you are.
List everything, work-related and non-work-related, you enjoy doing.
2. What feedback have I received from colleagues or supervisors regarding my work?
Reflect on your career journey. Think of all the positive and negative feedback you received, whether in formal performance reviews or an offhand manner, regarding your work or something you did.
"I enjoy sitting in on your presentations."
"You have a knack for listening."
"The way you motivate your team is impressive."
3. What problems have I successfully solved in previous positions?
Every position exists to solve a problem. For instance, accountants are hired to monitor a company's incoming revenue and outgoing expenses and oversee its compliance with local tax laws.
What problems have you solved for your employers? Increased website traffic? Decreased spending? Increased customer satisfaction? Decreased safety violations? Increased sales? (employers' favourite)
4. What unique experiences or backgrounds do I have that contribute to my skill set?
A candidate who grew up in Quebec City will have a competitive edge being fluently bilingual over someone who simply attended French immersion in Calgary, Alberta. The same could be said for a candidate whose mother was a social worker, making them more attuned to the needs of others or their father, who was a pharmaceutical representative, thus exposing them to human dynamics that influence.
Everyone has a unique story of how their place of birth and experiences, especially first experiences, developed their strengths and 'passion for.' Explaining to an employer that your enjoyment of providing customer service that's a competitive advantage comes from having spent your weekends and summers working the front desk at your family's 85-room hotel in Estevan, Saskatchewan, has much more impact than simply saying, "I like helping people."
5. What skills have I gained through hobbies or volunteer work?
I once hired a call centre agent who volunteered at a local suicide prevention hotline for several years. A candidate who coached a little league baseball team turned out to be one of the best first-time manager I ever hired.
Don't ignore the skills and experience you've acquired outside your employment or education. Skills, experience, and knowledge aren't just acquired at work or school. The skills and experience you gain from volunteering, starting/running a business, being a parent, playing in a sports league, or serving on your condo board can be valuable to employers.
If the above questions don't solicit as many skills as you'd like, seek the opinions of family members, friends, and colleagues. Ask them what they think your key strengths are. Their insights may surprise you.
Once you've identified your hard and soft skills—your soft skills (e.g., communication, critical thinking, time management) are the most important to employers—you need to communicate your unique skills as selling points. Merely listing your "skills" and "qualifications" doesn't distinguish you from other applicants. You must describe who you are and what you offer in a straightforward, memorable narrative conveying your unique value proposition.
· Not memorable: "I speak French."
· Memorable: "I was born in Quebec City. French is my mother tongue."
Additionally, frame your skills and qualifications in terms of how they can benefit an employer.
· No value add: "I have strong analytical skills."
· Value add: "During my seven years as a financial analyst at Wayne Enterprises, I developed above-average analytical skills that enabled the company to take advantage of several initial public offerings that turned out to be quite lucrative. One recommended buy resulted in a $7.5 million gain within less than a year."
Based on my experience, most candidates fail to emphasize their uniqueness; hence, they don't stick in my head. Given the number of candidates I've interviewed throughout my career, one would think I'd have heard many inspiring, funny, entertaining, and sad career and life stories. Unfortunately, that's not the case. Job seekers need to work on being mentally sticky. In a competitive job market filled with qualified candidates, articulating your secret sauce will ultimately set you apart.
_____________________________________________________________________
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
Thank you for 2024 Looking Forward 2025 Successes
T
By Joe Ingino
B.A. Psychology
Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers
ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000
Published Columns in Canada and The United States
I remember back to 1993. The Oshawa Times had just closed. The community was left in shock after 123 years of service. Without notice. The Times shuts down.
After heavy consultation. The Central was born. A new newspaper promising to fill in the shoes of a local giant. Metroland the local coupon clipper that published some news was quick to move in on all the local municipal contracts as at that time they had the distribution network. They published higher numbers. The Central made it’s mission not to compete but to work in the shadows. Slowly chipping away at their corporate strong holds and establish ourselves as the local news source. The Central champions the cause of the under dog. The Central is the only news print that truly gives the general public access to the press.
The Central has enjoyed a stellar columnist line ups. From the late honorable Jim Flaherty to Former Mayor Marcel Brunelle of Whitby.
Jerry Ouellette, Preston Manning former reform party leader. The list is long and prestigious.
The Central successes have bee long and painful as every award every achievement had to be earned through hard work.
The Central with offices also in the United States is more than a local power house. The Central is internationally acredited and award winning on various fronts.
Did you know that the Central was the first newspaper to have published on line? Did you know that the Central through it’s sister company DURHAM CITY CENTRAL RADIO THE WAVE, was the first company across the planet that broadcasted live radio.
Yes, before YouTube and the many other streaming services. The Central in 30 years has been a beacon of excellence in the field of online telecommunications, news print and media.
Many have come and gone. All failed. Some due to the fact that did not know how to manage others had no clue on what it takes to survive in this industry. For example the ‘OSHAWA EXPRESS’ with it’s 2000 print was only interested in Oshawa municipal contract. That was all that kept them alive. The NEIGHBOR magazine another fly by night operator that had no clue on what the industry mandated. Gone. One after the other. Just recently Metroland closed. Under bankruptcy protection they are attempting to be an online presence... Once again. All they are doing is suckering in people that do not understand that online has no value for news. People placing ads in these online news groups might as well as burn it. Same affect. Newsprint has undergone some major changes. Those that do not understand the science. Go bankrupt. Those that desperately go online are doomed. The Central success is you. Our readers, advertisers, contributors and our staff. Happy New Year Thank You.
Waiting to Die: Canada's Healthcare Crisis and Its Impact on Cancer Patients
Waiting to Die:
Canada's Healthcare Crisis and Its Impact on Cancer Patients
By Dale Jodoin
In recent years, Canada's healthcare system has faced unprecedented challenges, leading to significant delays in medical treatments. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these issues, resulting in longer wait times and a shortage of healthcare professionals. Among those most affected are cancer patients, who often find their critical treatments postponed, sometimes with fatal consequences.
The COVID-19 pandemic has placed immense pressure on Canada's healthcare infrastructure. Hospitals have been overwhelmed, and resources stretched thin, leading to delays in various medical procedures. According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), median wait times for cancer surgeries have increased by 2 to 4 days for breast, bladder, colorectal, and lung cancers, and by 11 days for prostate cancer, compared to 2019
. These delays can be detrimental, as timely treatment is crucial for cancer patients.
For cancer patients, delays in treatment can mean the difference between life and death. As wait times extend, some patients progress to more advanced stages of cancer, reducing their chances of survival. In some tragic cases, patients have died while waiting for necessary surgeries or treatments. A report by SecondStreet.org revealed that over 17,000 patients died while on waiting lists for surgeries, diagnostic scans, or specialist consultations in the year ending March 2023
The uncertainty and prolonged waiting periods have also taken a psychological toll on patients. Feelings of hopelessness and despair are common, leading some to consider drastic measures. The option of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) has been sought by patients who feel they have no other choice due to unbearable suffering and delayed access to care. While MAiD provides an option for those in intolerable pain, its increased consideration raises ethical concerns about the state of the healthcare system.
Palliative care services, designed to provide relief to those with serious illnesses, are also under strain. With the rising number of patients requiring end-of-life care, these facilities are operating at full capacity, unable to accommodate the growing demand. This situation leaves many patients without adequate support during their most vulnerable times.
The current state of affairs has led to discussions about potential solutions to alleviate the burden on the public healthcare system. One proposal is the introduction of private healthcare options to increase capacity and reduce wait times. Countries with mixed healthcare systems often experience shorter wait times for treatments, suggesting that a dual approach could benefit patients in Canada.
Additionally, there is a pressing need to address the shortage of healthcare professionals. The nursing shortage, for instance, has reached critical levels, leading to unplanned closures of emergency rooms and increased workloads for existing staff
Wikipedia
. Investing in the recruitment and retention of healthcare workers is essential to ensure that patients receive timely and adequate care.
Early detection of cancer significantly improves survival rates. However, delays in accessing diagnostic services mean that many cancers are diagnosed at more advanced stages. Improving access to screening and diagnostic tools is vital. Between April and September 2023, median wait times for MRI scans were 7 days longer, and for CT scans 4 days longer, compared to the same period in 2019
. Reducing these wait times could lead to earlier diagnoses and better outcomes for patients.
A National Conversation
Addressing these challenges requires a national dialogue involving policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the public. An honest assessment of the current system's shortcomings is necessary to develop effective strategies for improvement. This includes considering innovative care models, increasing funding for primary care, and exploring the potential benefits of integrating private healthcare options.
The delays in cancer treatment within Canada's healthcare system have dire consequences for patients. Without immediate and effective action, more lives will be lost to preventable delays. It is imperative that Canada confronts these issues head-on, ensuring that the most vulnerable receive the timely care they desperately need.
Saturday, December 21, 2024
51st
“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 -
51st
By Joe Ingino
B.A. Psychology
Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers
ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000
Published Columns in Canada and The United States
I think in the new year I am going to enroll in a course and learn how to speak American. Ok, stop laughing. Let’s take a look at the possible surrender, invasion, liberation of Canada by/with the United States.
I say surrender.... because as it stands Canadian politics is at an all time low. The Liberals have ruined the country by compromising just about every aspect of Canadian economics, politics. To a point that Canadian society has stopped to exist and Canada has become a cocktail of third world interests. For God’s sake we have be careful when we wish each other ‘MERRY CHRISTMAS’ as to not offend anyone.
How about the fact that someone gets offended at our tradition in itself is offensive and bias if not prejudice towards Canadian traditions, customs and culture. But we must stay silent and accept.
As it stand no matter who wins... It be the same old same old. Only difference is that the new changes will only ad up to increase taxes in order to pay the previous regimes mistakes.
Can we clearly say that the NDP or the Conservatives are or will be any different than the Liberals?
Look at the policies. Look at the leaders of the parties. Look at the parties themselves. All three are rooted in the ‘dog eat dog’, mentality. It is not about the quality of leadership. It is about who you know. Look in Oshawa. The local MP Collin Carrie. Served for God knows how many terms. What has he done for Oshawa?
Now he finally is retiring... and instead of looking for a candidate with real credentials. A local community business leader at the least.
No. The party selects Collin’s assistance. Patronage for service rendered over the years. Like really this is the best selection to lead us? Collin’s personal assistant.
I say let’s surrender to the U.S. and reap the benefits of a Trump no nonsense administration. Our dollar would automatically go up forty cents. Our gas and food prices would drop.
I say, let the U.S. invade Canada. It appears that just about every other nation has already. Through our multicultural initiative. It is almost shameful to be Canadian. Canadians are forced to accept foreign customs, tradition and cultures. It is not about integrating but forced compliance or else be labeled.
I say, let’s let the U.S. liberate us from our own stupidity.
Let’s put common sense back in governance.
As it stands discrimination has transformed from race to race to corporate, political, social and many other forms all in the guise of equality. Inclusion, diversity... meanwhile society has rotted to a point that our Canadian jobs are going to India, Phillipines and other third world countries. While our own youth can’t get work unless they are of a particular race or speak a particular language. Our youth can’t afford to buy homes as minimum wages does not even pay for rentals. We need Canada back. If we can’t have it. Let’s consider 51 as a real option.
Flipping houses
Flipping houses
By Theresa Grant - Real Estate Columnist
The idea of flipping a house sounds great on the surface. You can purchase a house that has been completely neglected and in need of some serious help, or you can simply purchase a house that hasn’t seen much updating through the years, if any at all.
Either type of purchase will work for a flip. The whole idea of a flip is to take a property that you purchased on the cheap, rip out the old and put in the new. Once you have completed your flip, the idea is to be able to put it back on the market for a profit.
It sounds much easier than it actually is in most cases. Usually, the type of property you are able to purchase on the cheap may be very old. With very old houses come a whole slew of issues. You may find when you start to rip things apart that there could be asbestos in the house. That calls for immediate remediation, and that can be costly.
Another costly item can be having to bring things up to code. When I purchase an old Semi in downtown Oshawa several years back, it had no air conditioning. For me, air conditioning was a must have. I called a company to come and install it and was told I’d have to have my gas meter moved. That cost me a few hundred dollars to have that done before we could even get to the installation of the air conditioning. The point I’m trying to make is that for every intended cost, you may get hit with other unknown costs related to what you are trying to accomplish. We’ve all seen the HGTV programs that show houses being gutted and redone with stunning results. While completely redoing a house can bring immense satisfaction, if you are trying to make a living at it, well, that can be challenging.
House flipping became popular kin the mid 2000s during the housing bubble. Since then, flipping has seen several cycles of popularity. The height of the flipping craze came in 2005 with 8.2% of single-family homes sold being flipped. This was due to rising house prices and easier access to mortgages.
In 2008 the housing market collapsed, and flippers faced having to sell at lower prices.
2022 saw flipping houses hit its highest rate since 2005 with 8.4% of all home sales being flipped.
Just a year later in 2023, flipping saw nearly a 30% drop, however it is on the rise again.
There is a house on a street in Central Oshawa that garnered a lot of attention when it was purchased, redone and then unfortunately got caught in the market turndown. It sat on the market for months, went power of sale, and eventually sold for a staggering $300,000 loss.
Flipping a house is not easy. If you are thinking of trying your hand at it, set a budget, focus on what sells as opposed to what you like personally. Have a game plan, hire trades people so you can get in and get out. Perhaps most of all, be prepared for the unexpexted.
Questions? Column ideas? You can email me at newspaper@ocentral.com
My Christmas Wish List
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