Oshawa is getting a bad Wrap?

Is Oshawa getting a bad rap? By Theresa Grant Real Estate columnist You don’t have to look very far to find people dissing Oshawa for one reason or another. Granted Oshawa has a whole host of issues and problems, but not unlike any other urban city of the same size in Ontario. That being said, Oshawa has some wonderful attributes as well. I find that Oshawa is often compared to Hamilton. As far as that goes, Hamilton is in the news far more often for all the wrong reasons. It is almost guaranteed that when you turn on the television on a Sunday morning you are going to hear about some of the goings on in Hamilton the previous night. Oshawa and Hamilton are of similar size with both having had one main source of industry that each is most well known for. They are both University Cities. They are both perched alongside Lake Ontario, making for some very picturesque areas. The housing market in both cities is similar. The addictions and homeless communities in both are, again, similar. So why does Oshawa get far more bad mouthing from people than Hamilton? Why do people focus on what’s negative instead of accentuating the positive? I guess it comes back to that old saying…haters are going to hate. It’s sad though, because Oshawa has the lovely Botanical Gardens which are really quite beautiful. They also have a gorgeous lakefront, and Lakeview Park is a sight to behold in the summertime. Oshawa has some stunning architecture. One of my personal favourites is Mary St. from about Aberdeen to Beatrice. I love driving up that street in the summertime when the trees on either side of the street create canopy for you to drive under. Just beautiful. Oshawa has some wonderful entertainment venues, fabulous restaurants with more opening all the time. Many builders have planted their flags in Oshawa because it is a changing, growing community with so much to offer. Everywhere you look there are new buildings going up which speaks to future growth. Yes, without question, Oshawa has a problem with unsheltered people and open drug use. Again, not unlike many other cities. While saying that it is not unlike other cities is not an excuse, nor a solution, until such time as the powers that be find solutions for the issues, why not enjoy and focus on the beauty that Oshawa does have to offer.

THE REALITIES OF THE TRIBUTE COMMUNITIES CENTRE RENOVATION

THE REALITIES OF THE TRIBUTE COMMUNITIES CENTRE RENOVATION THIS NEWSPAPER WAS THE FIRST media outlet to break the story on massive renovations to the Tribute Communities Centre (TCC) that are due to be completed by late 2027. Our editorial, published the same day Mayor Carter and others gathered together to announce a $50 million investment into the TCC, raised concerns as to the costs involved and the lack of transparency in the negotiations leading up to council’s decision to undertake such an expenditure. We began by looking back to 1964, when residents came together to pay for the construction of the much-loved Civic Auditorium, with many fans donating a portion of their weekly paycheques to see their dream turn into reality. We also recalled that moment in 2006 when, once again, residents of Oshawa took great pride in welcoming the Generals to their first home game in what was then called the General Motors Centre. Built at a cost of at least $35 million, the downtown arena has never turned a profit in its almost 20 years of existence, requiring taxpayers to remain as loyal contributors year after year. Nevertheless, Oshawa Generals owner Rocco Tullio said in early 2023 that he was “done” negotiating with City Hall, and was ready to move the team to Pickering, saying at the time that any deal to keep the Gens in Oshawa would hinge on the City meeting a number of conditions. It appears those terms have been met. In a recent press release posted on the City’s website, the renovations are offered up as a necessary ‘modernization’ of the existing facility, including a main entrance expansion, interior alterations with seating for up to 7000 fans, and an updated concession area. The announcement goes on to say, “The $50 million modernization of the TCC will not impact the tax rate. It will be funded through various sources, such as the new Oshawa Generals and Oak View Group agreements, Municipal Accommodation Tax, and additional seat revenue.” What that statement doesn’t tell you is that one major debt is to quite simply be taken over by another. Forget the dribs and drabs of any additional seat revenue or the tax on hotel stays for just a moment. Consider; the current debenture (the debt issued by the City of Oshawa that relies entirely on their creditworthiness) for the TCC was due expire in November 2027…the date upon which the new debt for the proposed renovations will be issued. To say, at this stage, that the tax rate won’t be impacted is to be economical with the actualité. Interest rates alone are very unpredictable, not to mention cost overruns during construction. It is well known in political circles that once a municipal debt is paid off, something always comes in to fill the void, either by way of new spending, or the increased cost of maintaining services. Nevertheless, the announcement of a $50 million ice rink renovation couldn’t have come at a worse time for local taxpayers who were already saddled with a significant increase in the Mayor’s budget last autumn. Recent events both here and abroad have conspired to slow the economy, including a recent announcement of 700 layoffs at the General Motors production facility, either due simply to a temporary slump in sales, or the more sinister possibility of an eventual relocation south of the border. In the latest edition of Mayor Carter’s RealTalk podcast, a very open and frank discussion may be heard between the Mayor and Generals owner Rocco Tullio. The two men talk of a 30-year extension of the partnership recently negotiated between the City, the Oshawa Generals Hockey Club, and the operators of the TCC, being the Oak View Group. Here are a few excerpts from the conversation between the two men that readers may find interesting: ON BUYING & OWNING THE TEAM MR. TULLIO: “I wanted to prove to the fans that this was more than just a business for me; it was my passion. I wanted to restore the credibility of the Oshawa Generals. This isn’t a big money maker. I didn’t buy it to make money off of it; I did it because I wanted to give back in so many ways.” ON THE STANDARDS REQUIRED FOR PLAYERS MR. TULLIO: “I want to standardize things. We put our team in certain standards of hotels, and a quality of food, like last night after the game and every post-meal it’s been ribeye steak…we don’t just go and give them pizza. When they don’t perform well on the ice…you didn’t feed them properly, you didn’t ensure a good night’s sleep…then you expect them to perform at a high level.” ON THE EVOLUTION OF THE GENERALS TEAM MAYOR CARTER: “I’ve watched the evolution of your organization with you as an owner, and we’ve seen a small gym to a larger gym, an area that was a meeting area that is now a video review room where all the players are. We’ve seen an area for players so that they can have proper nutrition with a kitchen that has been put in. If we want the best out of people then we have to create an environment so they can be their best.” ON THE NEGOTIATIONS MR. TULLIO: “You (Mayor Carter) fight for what you believe is right for the city of Oshawa and we fight for what we think is right for the Oshawa Generals. At the end of the day, Dan, you championed this, and you put your money where your mouth is, and you delivered at the end of the day. We have to make sure we have all the resources and tools to be able to survive the longevity of what Junior Hockey is evolving into, and space was so critical for us. Kudos to you and the rest of council for recognizing that. We were able to find a happy medium for everybody.” That “happy medium” includes $50 million from the taxpayers of Oshawa. Kudos to you all.

STRONG MAYOR POWERS THE MUSOLINI COMPLEX

STRONG MAYOR POWERS THE MUSOLINI COMPLEX B.A. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States Benito Amilcare Andrea Mussolini (29 July 1883 – 28 April 1945) was an Italian politician and journalist who, upon assuming office as Prime Minister, What is Mussolini most known for? But in the world of twentieth century dictators, Benito Mussolini was a pioneer. He created fascism, a movement that would plunge most of Europe into darkness. From undermining judges to indoctrinating children, he pioneered key tactics that other dictators would use to seize power. The Fascist state ruled Italy violently, projecting its coercive power deeply and diffusely into society through confinement, imprisonment, low-level physical assaults, economic deprivations, intimidation, discrimination and other quotidian forms of coercion. In October 1922, following the March on Rome, he was appointed prime minister by King Victor Emmanuel III. After removing opposition through his secret police and outlawing labour strikes, Mussolini and his followers consolidated power through laws that transformed the nation into a one-party dictatorship. What is fascism in simple terms? Fascism is a far-right form of government where most of the country's power is held by one ruler or a small group, under one party. Benito Mussolini (left) and Adolf Hitler (right), two fascist leaders (pictured in 1937). Mussolini and Giovanni Gentile described their ideology as right-wing in the political essay The Doctrine of Fascism (1932), stating: "We are free to believe that this is the century of authority, a century tending to the 'right,' a fascist century." This is similar to Communism as the control factor is put on one person. In simple terms, Marxism is a theory about how societies are organized and how they change. It argues that history is driven by class struggle and that the economic system (like capitalism) shapes all aspects of society. Essentially, it analyzes how the ownership and control of resources lead to conflict between different groups in society. Modern communism grew out of the aftermath of the French Revolution. In 1848, Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels offered a new definition of communism in The Communist Manifesto. Does the above not sound like what took place in Europe? Strong Mayors Powers were put in affect to streamline government. Not to be used as a weapon. To politicize it to the advantage of a few. To be used as a tool to discriminate during bids and tenders. Could it be the man or the system that keeps failing humanity. Look at what has beent taken place across Durham region. Municipality after municipality have used strong mayors powers to isolate and control. To legally discriminate and punish any opposing voice. Left/Right, in theory they are all about the same. Control.

Victory in Europe 2025 and reflections on Canada

Victory in Europe 2025 and reflections on Canada by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East As we continue to deal with worsening international relations and a resurgence of conflicts worldwide we need to remember one of the greatest tragedies of the last century, which was WWII. We see again a war in Europe, a war in the Middle East, and recently a war brewing between two nuclear powers in Asia. Therefore, it seems that humanity has forgotten the tragedy, which occurred within living memory, in the last century. WWII was one of the greatest challenges to both humankind and democracy. The time has come to reflect on this event, in order to avoid a repetition of it in any shape or form. Today we must stop the drift toward another world conflagration, which, if it occurs, will be more cruel and more devastating. We need to raise our voices to protect our basic rights of freedom and democracy, especially our freedom of speech, which is under siege from many sides. Each year we commemorate Victory in Europe Day, but this year it is special because it is the 80th anniversary of the day also known as V-E Day. On May 8, 1945 Nazi Germany unconditionally surrendered to the Allied Forces of the Second World War. This day in history marked the end of World War II in Europe, although the war would continue in the Pacific Theater of Operations. V-E Day marked the end of most of the fighting in Europe, where tens of millions of service members and civilians had been killed since the start of hostilities. The second world war was the deadliest conflict in human history, which saw 50 to 85 million fatalities. This year the 80th anniversary of V-E day is a special one because of the issues around the emergence of new dangerous conflicts in the world. These conflicts must be stopped before it is too late. We need to remember that the defeat of Nazi Germany was a great success for democracy and freedom. We need to remember and be grateful for the sacrifices made by millions of people to ensure that in today’s world we can enjoy relative peace, progress and stability. It seems however, that there are many challenges ahead, and the forces of darkness are again trying to raise their ugly heads under several incarnations. So let us take a closer look at the events leading to V-E day in Europe. After six years of heavy fighting in Europe, Nazi Germany was finally defeated on 8th of May 1945 by the allied forces, composed of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and the Soviet Union (most of today’s Russia). I strongly emphasize the great Canadian contribution to this war, which seems to be generally forgotten by today’s Canadian society and politicians, being barely mentioned. It is time to celebrate this event in a way that strengthens our unity as a country in view of the new challenges emerging to our statehood. We need to be proud Canadians again, and remember our ancestors who fought for us and fought to make Canada strong again. The countries in Western Europe mark the victory in Europe on May 8th. May 9th was chosen in the Soviet Union (Russia today), as it was already the next day when the German military surrendered to the Soviet Union and its Allies in Berlin late in the evening of May 8th 1945. We need to remember that during the course of the Second World War, over one million Canadians served in places like the North Atlantic Ocean, Italy, Hong Kong, the Netherlands, France, and Germany. One in eleven Canadians had participated and 42,000 were killed (2,024 in the Navy, 22,917 in the Army, and 17,101 in the Air Force). It was a long and arduous war whose end was long awaited. When Victory in Europe Day (VE-Day) was declared on May 8, 1945, excited celebrations spilled into the streets and neighbourhoods throughout the world, including Canada. Prime Minister Mackenzie King, in San Francisco at the time, wrote in his diary, “this has been a good day— a happy day… one in which the burden has been greatly lightened from the knowledge that Nazi militarism has, at last, been destroyed.” Not everyone was at home to celebrate. Around 200,000 members of the First Canadian Army were still in Europe at the time of VE-Day. In addition, over 35 Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) fighter and fighter-bomber squadrons as well as more than 250 Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) warships were abroad when victory in Europe was officially declared. Hundreds of those naval and air force personnel joined the revelries in Britain and France. Many European cities, especially those in England, had been perpetually blacked out for nearly 5 years due to the impending threat of air raids by the enemy. On VE-Day, lights were free to shine again, and this added to the enthusiastic atmosphere. Despite all the jubilance, the deaths of millions and the horrors of war tempered the spirits of many. Communities across Canada were deeply affected by the tragic loss of their young men and women. Many found themselves widows and widowers. The small town of Sackville, New Brunswick witnessed 350 of their men enlist—ten per cent of their population—of whom 33 died. For many town residents, VE-Day became a day for remembrance and reflection rather than celebration. Canada’s involvement in the Second World War was costly. In addition to the 42,000 military personnel who died, 54,000 were wounded, and of the volunteer merchant civilians, 1,600 gave their lives for the cause. For those returning home from serving abroad, the experience represented a completed chapter, both in their own lives and in the history of Canada; they relished the long-awaited opportunity to build normal, better lives for themselves, and a better nation for Canadians. Victory day is about remembering those who gave their lives to achieve the victory we have enjoyed for almost four generations against the forces of evil. We cannot allow those who would oppress us to succeed, making a mockery of the supreme sacrifice our ancestors made for us during World War II! It has been said that freedom is not free. Truer words were never spoken. Throughout history there have been those who would take freedom from the independent, the individual, the type of person who succeeds by his/her own efforts. For generations North America has been the beacon of freedom to the rest of the world, but in the last half century that beacon has been slowly fading. Our beloved Canada is fast approaching the point where the torch of freedom will totally fade. Indeed, the time has come for Canadians to once again stand up for the freedoms that our ancestors gave their very lives to defend during World War II. We need to stand up against the tyranny of incompetence in leadership, political correctness at the expense of merit, and the stripping away of our individual freedoms under the guise of political expediency. Are you willing to stand up and be counted?

Why the Conservatives Lost the Election: A Story About Fear, Not Facts

Why the Conservatives Lost the Election: A Story About Fear, Not Facts By Dale Jodoin In the latest Canadian election, many people were surprised that the Conservatives didn’t win. After all, they had clear points, strong leadership, and a plan to fix problems like the rising cost of living, high taxes, and broken services. But even with all that, they still lost. The real reason? Fear. Not of them—but of someone who isn’t even Canadian. Let’s go back a bit. When the President of the United States began placing tariffs on Canadian products, it shook the country. Suddenly, everyday things got more expensive, and the future of trade between Canada and the U.S. seemed unsure. This made people nervous. But instead of offering calm, clear leadership, the Liberals and NDP took a different route: they used fear. The Liberals and NDP ran their campaigns by tying everything to Donald Trump, the American president. They didn’t talk about Canada’s rising debt, long hospital wait times, or the housing crisis. Instead, they pointed their fingers at Trump and said, “Be careful, the Conservatives are just like him.” It didn’t matter that the Conservative leader had never worked with Trump or even agreed with him. The Liberal media—TV, radio, and newspapers mostly funded by the federal government—repeated the same line over and over. They called the Conservatives “Trump’s cousins,” warning that if Canadians voted Conservative, they would see the same style of leadership as in the U.S. This message worked. Not because it was true, but because people were afraid. They voted not for what they believed in, but for what they feared might happen. The truth is, the Conservatives had no way to fight back. When most major news stations are paid for by the government, it’s hard to get your message out. Every time the Conservatives tried to explain their ideas, they were either ignored or twisted into something negative. And anyone who spoke up in support of them was often shouted down or labeled as “dangerous.” So what did Canadians really vote for? They didn’t vote for the best plan or for the strongest leader. They didn’t vote for change or solutions. They voted out of fear. Fear that Donald Trump might have too much influence over Canada. Fear that standing up to the U.S. would bring more problems. And fear that a Conservative government might “look” too much like something they saw on American news. But this fear-based voting comes with a cost. Now Canada faces real issues: food prices are still high, housing is out of reach for many, and our debt keeps growing. Many rural hospitals and services are stretched thin, and young people are struggling to see a future here. Instead of addressing these problems, the current government has focused more on image than action. They brought in a leader who looks good on camera and says the right things—but many say he’s just a puppet. Some believe this leader was picked not for his ideas, but because he could be controlled. Others think he simply repeats what party bosses or friendly media tell him to say. Either way, it’s clear that the voices of regular Canadians weren’t heard. What happened to open debates? What happened to letting people decide for themselves without being told who to fear? In a democracy, people should be able to vote based on facts—not feelings forced on them by news stations or politicians. And yet, here we are. Canadians were told again and again to “stand against Trump.” But Trump isn’t running our country. What’s happening in Canada—like the rising cost of living and the slow breakdown of public services—is something our own government must take responsibility for. Blaming someone outside the country won’t fix that. What’s more troubling is that not one political leader stood up for baby boomers—many of whom have been blamed for everything from the housing crisis to climate change. These are the same people who built this country up, paid taxes for decades, and are now often struggling in retirement. But during the election, they were used as a scapegoat too. So what can be done? First, Canadians need to stop voting based on fear. We must learn to question the headlines, listen to more than one voice, and think about what’s best for our country—not what someone tells us to be scared of. Second, we need to demand fair media. When news companies are funded by the government, they have a responsibility to stay neutral. If they become cheerleaders for one side, democracy breaks down. Canadians deserve honest reporting, not stories meant to scare or silence. Third, it’s time to talk to each other again. Too many families and friends are divided over politics, with people afraid to speak their minds. But Canada was built on free speech and respect for different opinions. We need to bring that back. Finally, we must remember this: it’s okay to ask questions. It’s okay to challenge what we’re told. And it’s okay to believe in something different. That’s what democracy is all about. The Conservatives may have lost this time, but their ideas deserve to be heard. And next time, hopefully Canadians will vote based on hope, not fear. Because if we keep letting fear choose our leaders, we may one day wake up in a country we no longer recognize.

Ottawa Pro-Life March: A Rallying Cry for Courage, Compassion, and the Defense of Life

Ottawa Pro-Life March: A Rallying Cry for Courage, Compassion, and the Defense of Life By Councillor Lisa Robinson As a proud elected councillor for the City of Pickering, I have attended many events - but none have stirred my heart and renewed my sense of purpose like the recent Pro-Life March in Ottawa, hosted by the remarkable March for Life Coalition. This was more than just a march; it was a nationwide stand. Thousands of Canadians, young people, parents, grandparents, faith leaders, medical professionals, and advocates, gathered with one powerful message: to defend the dignity of human life, from the moment of conception to natural death. In a world where the push for Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) has crept deeper into our healthcare system — even targeting the vulnerable, the elderly, the disabled, and sometimes even the mentally ill - this march was a critical statement. We are saying loud and clear: Canada must be a country that protects life, not disposes of it. Life is precious at every stage, and we must push back against policies that treat death as a solution to suffering, poverty, or mental health struggles. What stood out most was the courage and resolve in the faces of those marching. Despite the challenges, the media pushback, the political resistance, and the social pressures, these Canadians showed up - peaceful, determined, and driven by love. We weren’t there to judge; we were there because we care deeply about the voiceless, the vulnerable, the unborn, the sick, and the future of our country. The March for Life Coalition and their event crew deserve enormous praise. Their flawless coordination - managing logistics, amplifying diverse voices, and ensuring everyone felt safe and respected - transformed this gathering into a monumental moment. I felt proud, not just to attend, but to stand shoulder to shoulder with national leaders and ordinary citizens alike, all united in one moral cause: to affirm that every life matters. I left Ottawa with a renewed determination to bring this message home - because defending life is not just a federal issue or a national conversation; it’s something that touches every local community. We need to have the courage to speak up at every level, even when it’s politically inconvenient or socially unpopular. To those who marched, organized, volunteered, and sacrificed to make the Pro-Life March a success: thank you. You are proof that conscience, conviction, and compassion still thrive in this country. This is a movement that will not be silenced, and I, for one, am honored to be part of it. Together, we stand for a Canada that cherishes life, from the first heartbeat to the final breath - not by force, but by the natural dignity every person deserves.

The Timing of Your Questions During an Interview Is Everything!

The Timing of Your Questions During an Interview Is Everything! By Nick Kossovan Most interviewers appreciate candidates who come prepared with thoughtful questions. However, while your questions are important, the strategic timing of when you ask them is more crucial. You've likely heard, "Timing is everything." This is especially true in interviews. Asking about work-life balance too early—during the initial (introductory) or second interview—can lead to elimination. Sure, work-life balance matters, but raising it early screams: "I just want to do the bare minimum!" "I'm not a team player!" "I'm already planning my escape." As a job seeker, understand that the hiring process is inherently a process of elimination, necessitated by many candidates vying for one role. Therefore, before you ask questions that answer, "Will this job serve my self-interests?" first, focus on establishing stickiness—a connection and trust. By demonstrating your awareness of the employer's needs, something candidates you're competing against are unlikely to exhibit; you increase the odds of your interviewer envisioning you as the ideal candidate for the role and the company. Also, keep in mind that an interview is a sales meeting. Your initial and second interviews should revolve around selling yourself. Emphasizing the value you can bring—how you'll generate revenue, solve problems, increase savings—distinguishes you from candidates more focused on WIIFM (What's in it for me?). The exception is the "money question." Ideally, you should know the salary range for the position. I always ask within the first five minutes of an initial interview, "To ensure we're not wasting each other's time, I'm looking for an annual salary of $X. Is that within the range for this position?" There's no point in pursuing a job that won't meet your compensation requirements. Save everything else for later, as those details are often negotiable. During your first and second interviews, ask: Discovery questions: · What's the most important thing I should accomplish in my first 90 days? · What challenges might I face in this position? · Will my responsibilities change in the next six months to a year? · Can you tell me about the team I'll be working with and my direct reports? Clarification questions: · Can you elaborate on the day-to-day responsibilities of this role? · What specific skills or experiences are you looking for in the ideal candidate? · Please clarify the reporting structure for this position. · What's the timeline for the expected projects or initiatives this role will be involved with? Closing questions: · What am I not asking you that I should? · What is essential for success in this role and at [company]? · How is performance in this role measured and evaluated? · Is there anything valuable for me to understand about the role or [company] role that we haven't discussed? Regarding closing questions, the purpose of asking such questions is to create a selling opportunity to emphasize that you have the skills, experience, and confidence, a critical aspect of interview success that jobseekers underestimate, to do the job. If you don't believe in yourself, then why should your interviewer? For instance, if you ask, "What are the biggest challenges I will face in this position?" and your interviewer answers, "Rimway is currently implementing a new company-wide software program called GLaDOS, which will greatly enhance our ability to interface with our customers and inventory; therefore, Rimway employees are in a steep learning curve." You can respond in one of two ways: 1. That you're familiar with GLaDOS, having used it extensively while working at [company], this would be the ideal answer, or 2. Recount a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, and Result) story in which you were successfully part of an implementation, be it new software, change in process, new government regulations, etc., to demonstrate (sell) your ability to adapt to changes and learn new technology, processes, regulations, a mindset not everyone has. During your first and second interviews, focus your questions on the company, its people, and how the role contributes to its overall success. More than ever, your entire job search, not just when you're interviewing, but your resume, LinkedIn profile, and how you present yourself during a networking opportunity, needs to clearly (keyword) demonstrate—this is where your quantifying results and achievement numbers (revenue, savings, time, amount, size, percentage) come in—how hiring you will add value. An interview is your chance—never easy to obtain—to demonstrate (read: sell) what you can do for an employer. As the job seeker, you're trying to land the job, not vice versa. (In today's job market, an employer will have many viable candidates per position. You're not an employer's only option.) More than ever, especially as employers are understandably increasingly running their business on lean, a job exists because the employer believes that by creating the job and having it occupied by the right person (key), they'll make more money than by not having it. Strategically timing your questions is a crucial factor in achieving interview success. Asking about benefits, flex hours, vacation, sick days, professional development offered or "Can I work from home?" (despite the job posting stating the job is on-site) too early in the interview stage is perceived as an indication that you're focused on what the employer can do for you, not on what you can do for the employer ___________________________________________________________________ Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned veteran of the corporate landscape, offers advice on searching for a job. You can send him your questions at artoffindingwork@gmail.com

So how’s the Market?

So how’s the Market? By Theresa Grant Real Estate columnist I was having lunch with a friend last week and as always, eventually, the question is asked, so how’s the market? My first thought was to say do you watch the news? But instead of saying something sarcastic I politely responded with a general overview of what is going on in the Durham Region. He then began asking questions about the types of things in todays market that affect not only the pricing of houses but the volume and speed at which a home might sell. He mentioned that there was a house on his street in Whitby that had been on the market for four weeks now. The tone in which he said it made me realize that he thought that this was a long time, and it must be overpriced or there must be something wrong with it given that it hasn’t sold yet. It seems that there is still some hangover from the Covid-19 craziness when it comes to the reality of the real estate market. While Covid-19 did see an absolute insanity when it came to real estate, with people buying houses not only without inspections, some people actually bought houses sight unseen, without even walking through them. Since then, there has been a return to more normal times in the real estate market. Meaning people have now gone back to the realtor recommended home inspection, perhaps a second or even third condition as well. We always used to have what they called a Spring market and a Fall market. That went out the window with the onset of Covid-19 but that may have just been a timing issue as well. Spring and Fall markets will always be a thing for Boomers, but with so many newcomers to Durham Region over the last few years, the market is active all year long. With the calming of the market, it was not unusual to see homes taking an average of forty-five days or two months to sell. Many perfectly priced homes sat on the market for three to four months before selling at full asking price. Many things can and do affect the market and the speed at which it moves. Today, without question, the uncertainty of what will go on with tariffs and how they will affect jobs, prices, and interest rates has many people pushing the pause button. In many cases people are waiting to see what happens next before they jump into home ownership and all the responsibilities that go along with it. Certain areas seem to be moving at a faster pace that others. But one thing is for sure, everyone is cautiously looking forward to more stable times.

What Employees Must Never Do: Lessons from a Legal Cautionary Tale

What Employees Must Never Do: Lessons from a Legal Cautionary Tale By Tahir Khorasanee, LL.M. Senior Associate, Steinbergs LLP As an employment lawyer, I’ve seen workplace disputes of all kinds—but the conduct of one former employee of CleanMark, an individual referred to as Jamil Manji, serves as a textbook example of what employees must never do after a termination. Jamil Manji was entrusted with sensitive company information and supported a senior executive. Following his termination in April 2024—despite being offered severance and a favourable reference letter—Manji chose to respond not with professionalism, but with a prolonged campaign of harassment and defamation. What followed was unconscionable: hundreds of anonymous calls, emails, and text messages targeting CleanMark’s Vice President. While initially disguised as flattery, Jamil’s behaviour escalated into malicious online attacks and defamatory posts under aliases—many designed to inflict emotional harm by referencing private aspects of the VP’s life. Worse, Jamil ignored direct warnings from Toronto Police and began anonymously contacting CleanMark’s clients. This type of behaviour is not only unethical—it’s illegal. In response, CleanMark pursued urgent legal action. Justice Merritt of the Ontario Superior Court granted a broad injunction, including an civil search warrant, an order requiring Jamil Manji to return and delete confidential company data and cease his defamatory and harassing conduct. Jamil, who had earlier failed in defending a half a million dollar defamation and harassment claim from CleanMark, owes the company an additional $34,570.15 for legal costs. He now faces the threat of civil contempt proceedings and potential fine and imprisonment for any further violations. Employees must understand: Respect boundaries after employment ends. Severance does not entitle you to retaliate. Never misuse confidential information or attempt to harm reputations out of spite. Do not engage in anonymous or harassing conduct, online or offline. It is traceable, and it is punishable. Failure to comply with court orders can lead to serious consequences, including jail time. Let this be a clear warning: no matter how you feel about your termination, harassment, defamation, and breaches of confidentiality will only deepen the legal consequences you face. CleanMark’s legal victory is more than just a company protecting its people—it’s a message that toxic behaviour has no place in the professional world, and it will be met with the full force of the law. ( I was counsel to CleanMark.)

This Isn’t Hockey It’s the Future of Our Country

This Isn’t Hockey It’s the Future of Our Country By Councillor Lisa Robinson Tuesday night’s Council meeting was a disgrace. Not just in how it looked, but in what it revealed. Council passed a motion titled: "Affirming Support for Canadian Businesses and Workers Amidst Cross-Border Trade Disputes." But behind the patriotic title was a power grab, plain and simple. The motion gives staff emergency purchasing powers to: - Bypass competitive bidding. - Extend contracts and approve over-budget purchases — without ever coming back to Council. - Do it all in the name of “supporting Canadian businesses,” even if it costs taxpayers more — and even though no emergency directive has been issued by the federal or provincial governments with no expiration date. And who helped craft this motion? City staff. Working hand-in-hand with Councillors Butt and Brenner. Of course they support it — because it gives them unchecked power to spend money without oversight. A couple of months ago, Councillor Brenner told us in chambers that he planned to bring this motion forward. I said it then, and I’ll say it again now - it was petty, and it made us look retaliatory. I said it would send the wrong message: that we’re playing politics instead of leading with principle. But they pushed ahead anyway, because that’s how this Council works. They don’t lead, they provoke. And sometimes, frankly, their actions remind me of children. It’s disturbing. Let’s be clear: I asked if any financial impact analysis had been done. The answer? No. I asked what protections were in place to stop sweetheart deals. None. I asked who would monitor this spending. No one. And when I asked about precautions about favoritism, the Mayor said my questions were “not appropriate.” When I asked if a project goes over budget – whether a dollar or $4,000, would staff come back to council for approval? The Mayor shrugged and said he’d “hope the Treasurer wouldn’t come to Council for $4,000.” But let’s not pretend that’s the issue. It’s $4,000 here, $15,000 there, or even $100,000 on so called public art projects. You’ve see the kind of wasteful spending I’ve been exposing: taxpayer dollars being poured into redoing artwork, that wasn’t done right the first time. Or the spending of your tax dollars to honour someone who had no connection to Pickering whatsoever. No roots here, no history, no ties to our community. Just plain old fashion wasteful spending, . And what did they do in response when I brought that up? They quietly passed a policy change that spending $100,000 or under on artwork no longer needs Council approval. That’s not the only one. There are now multiple new policies in place that let staff approve spending and contracts without ever coming before the elected body of this city. And you wonder why your taxes keep going up and up, higher and higher - while the public gets fewer services, answers, and less say. And then came the mockery. While voting on this dangerous motion, the Mayor and several councillors threw their elbows up, laughing like it was some kind of inside joke. “Elbows up” is embarrassing. This isn’t a hockey game — it’s the future of our country. We’re dealing with serious issues like sovereignty, trade, and economic independence — not throwing body checks on the global stage. It’s reckless rhetoric, and it only exposes how unserious some of our so-called leaders really are. Councillor Nagy followed the vote with a smug jab, saying she “hopes the people of Pickering see who supports Canada and who doesn’t.” And the Mayor — instead of stopping that slander — leaned in and said: “I think your vote shows exactly how you feel about Canada.” The same Mayor and Council who blocked my motion for seven months to play the national anthem before meetings only to hijack the idea when Trump’s tariffs hit, bury it in a pile of procedural garbage they knew I couldn’t support, and then accuse me of voting against the anthem, when they gave me no choice. It’s always the same pattern. They bury the truth. They twist the facts. And they spread lies to tear down anyone who won’t fall in line. So let me be crystal clear: I support Canadian businesses. I support Pickering jobs. But I will not support giving staff the power to spend your money in the dark, with no oversight, no competition, and no accountability. This wasn’t about patriotism. It was about protecting their power, silencing opposition, and retaliating against anyone who dares expose the truth. If standing up to that makes me the only “no” vote in the room, 6 to 1 - then good. Because I’d rather stand alone with the people, than sit in silence with the corrupt. This isn’t hockey. This is your money. This is your democracy. And I will fight like hell to protect both. I am Councillor Lisa Robinson, The People’s Councillor

MAYOR CARTER YOU ARE HYPOCRITE

MAYOR CARTER YOU ARE HYPOCRITE B.A. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States This week off the news wire it read: ‘Carter promises job support to impacted GM plant workers Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter has promised support to workers impacted by the decision to return the General Motors’ Oshawa Assembly to a two-shift operation instead of the current three. "On behalf of the City of Oshawa and City Council, I extend our compassion and support for those workers and their families who will be impacted.’ Being a hypocrite means acting in a way that contradicts what one claims to believe or feel. It's about saying one thing and doing another, often with the intention of appearing more virtuous or moral than one truly is. By Webster definition: hypocrite - noun Synonyms of hypocrite 1. a person who puts on a false appearance of virtue or religion 2. a person who acts in contradiction to his or her stated beliefs or feelings. If by my definition I am wrong. Please accept my apology. But if not then the Mayor has to be the biggest incompetent on the planet when it comes to managing Oshawa. For him to make such statements over GM. When his downtown is emptying out faster than he can drive through it. Does he not drive through downtown Oshawa? Does he not care? Or does he only care about 700 GM jobs that were on the chopping block any way. Now with the ‘Tariff’, bull. Companies like GM have an excuse. Oshawa lost 30,000 GM jobs and what did our mayor do for those families.... same thing he will do for the 700, increase their taxes next year by 8%. Yet, Carter is quoted, “‘Carter promises job support to impacted GM plant workers.” Honest concern, or just being a hypocrite. Or option two. He is such an incompetent administrator/leader that he has failed to support downtown merchants going out of business. Affecting 1000 of jobs.... Carter claims to “SUPPORT”. Yet, he fails to ‘SUPPORT’, his City Newspaper situated right in the heart of downtown Oshawa. Does he not care? Or is he a Hypocrite? Then again, this newspaper would not be the first local business that is passed over due to political interests. Carter has the only in print newspaper in his downtown and he has failed to support it. We are the heartbeat of the City and the region. Where is the municipal support? Incompetent or Hypocrite? Maybe I am the one with the intellectual handicap and expect for our beloved Mayor to be true to his word. He, will not support the 700 loosing their jobs any more than he is supporting his City Newspaper and or all the downtown local Canadian small businesses closing almost on a monthly basis. Incompetent or Hypocrite. You tell me... please.

The Dramatic Canadian Federal Election

The Dramatic Canadian Federal Election by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East Canada’s long-awaited, much-analyzed federal election has come and gone. It was interesting to witness what went on, in particular, the unprecedented voter turnout. With this election, Canada has revealed a completely different political landscape; one not even imagined a couple of months ago. Mark Carney’s Liberals held onto a strong minority government, the Conservatives gained key seats (though they lost a particularly important one; that of the leader), and the NDP was nearly wiped off the electoral map, losing the leader and official party status altogether. The reality is that the Conservative Party has not succeeded in delivering a government, despite inroads on the electoral landscape. Unfortunately, party leader Pierre Poilievre was surrounded by incompetent people such Jenny Byrne, whose misguided guidance has now lost four elections for the party. The Conservative Party of Canada lost yet another election due to staff incompetence, personal feuding among conservative leaders, and failing to grasp fundamental and dramatic changes in the geopolitical situation directly involving Canada. They had to win a majority, they were in the lead by more than 25% just a few months ago, and they blew it. The only choice they had was to win a majority because they do not have anybody in the House to make alliances with. They have never even attempted to build a dialog with other parties. If they were elected as a minority government, they would be defeated at the first opportunity due to lack of alliances. This is not a new situation, it has happened before. With this last election, we have seen the advent of a two party battle, at least in English Canada. This presented both opportunities and challenges for both the Liberals and the Conservatives. The Liberals’ absorption of 25-50 percent of traditional NDP support has proven to be an effective election strategy. It has broadened the party’s coalition, pushed up its popular vote, and enabled it to win new and different ridings across the country. For the Conservatives, the decline of the NDP has contributed to their notable gains with younger voters and realignment voters, such that the party’s voter composition is now quite different from what it was in the Harper era. This has broadened the Conservative voting coalition, pushing the party’s share of popular support up to modern highs as well as increasing the variety of issues and interests reflected in the party’s policy programme. However, it was not enough to propel them into government. The election results dealt the NDP a historic blow, losing official party status in Parliament. Jagmeet Singh’s resignation after losing his own seat in Burnaby Central marks the end of an era defined by principle, but ultimately not power. The NDP must now make a defining choice: remain a marginal voice of conscience or rebuild as a serious, disciplined political force capable of eventually forming government. Influence will be fiercely contested in this new Parliament. However, with no formal status, the NDP will struggle to shape outcomes in a House defined by Liberal-Conservative polarization. This situation does not exclude the possibility that some NDP MPs might join the liberals, crossing the floor, in giving them the coveted majority. If the federal NDP fails to evolve, it won’t just remain on the sidelines it will be written out of the future of Canadian politics altogether. The liberals on the other hand, especially their leader, Mark Carney, has pulled off a feat not even contemplated possible. They won a fourth mandate. Mark Carney has been Prime Minister for fewer than 70 days (his win ensured Charles Tupper will remain our shortest-serving PM), so there is still a lot to learn about him. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s victory in the election signals more than just a change in leadership, it marks the return of competence, clarity, and credibility to Canadian politics, qualities we’ve sorely lacked during the recent Trudeau years. Voters placed their trust in a leader known not for slogans, but for substance. His calm, confident tone throughout the campaign reflected the kind of steady hand Canadian professionals like myself have been yearning for in uncertain times. It is heartening to see that appreciation of professionalism has returned to Canadian politics. Canada needs more diverse professional people in a House populated in recent times, with non-practising lawyers, political scientist and staffers without real-life working experience. For Prime Minister Carney, the real work begins now. He must move quickly to assemble a team that mirrors the competence he projects and balance the old guard with fresh talent. Beyond managing the economy, he will need to bridge the divides that have deepened across geography, generations, and ideologies. Canadians didn’t just vote against dysfunction, they voted for something better. The tone has shifted. The expectations are high, Prime Minister Carney will have to shed some of the old and bring in the new to change the rhetoric around the old Trudeau team. However, for the first time in a long time, it feels like a grown-up is back in charge. Now it is time to deliver. So what does this all mean for Canada and what happens next? Hope for the best. You have made it the election of the century

Breaking: The World Without Bees Could Mean the End of Us All

Breaking: The World Without Bees Could Mean the End of Us All By Dale Jodoin Something deadly is happening right now — and almost no one is talking about it. It’s not far away. It’s not years from now. It is happening here, and it is happening fast. The bees are dying. And if we lose them, we could lose

everything. This isn’t just a problem for farmers or people who like honey. It’s a problem for everyone who eats food, breathes air, or hopes for a future. Bees Are Our Life Support Bees are not just insects buzzing from flower to flower. They are part of the system that keeps humans alive. Every time a bee carries pollen, it helps plants grow fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Without bees, most of the food we eat would disappear from our stores and markets. Without bees, there would be no apples. No berries. No cucumbers. No almonds. No pumpkins. Not many of the healthy foods people depend on every day. But it’s bigger than just food. Bees also help wild plants, trees, and forests stay alive. Those plants clean the air by pulling carbon out of it. They keep the planet cool by shading the ground and giving off oxygen. Without bees, the plants die. Without plants, the air becomes dirty. Without clean air and healthy plants, the planet heats up faster. Without plants and bees, the fight against climate change is lost. If the bees die out, the plants die. If the plants die, the animals die. If the animals die, we die. This is not science fiction. This is the reality we are facing right now. The Collapse Has Already Started Across Canada and around the world, bee colonies are collapsing. Farmers are finding empty hives where healthy bees once lived. Beekeepers are seeing their bees disappear without warning. There are many reasons for this disaster. Chemicals sprayed on fields can poison bees. Diseases and mites weaken them until whole hives die. Changing weather patterns confuse bees and destroy their food sources. Fewer wildflowers mean fewer places for bees to find pollen and nectar. At the same time, the people who care for bees — the beekeepers — are disappearing too. Most professional beekeepers today are older. Many are getting ready to retire. Too few young people are learning the skills needed to replace them. Without bees, farms will produce less food. Without beekeepers, there will be no way to protect or rebuild the bee populations. We are running out of bees. We are running out of time. What Happens If We Do Nothing? If we ignore this crisis, the consequences will be deadly. First, farmers will struggle to grow enough food. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds will become rare and expensive. Grocery stores will have fewer choices. Prices will rise sharply. Next, hunger will spread. Families who already struggle to afford food will be hit hardest. Communities that depend on local farms will lose jobs and businesses. Then the environment will break down even faster. Without bees helping plants to grow, fields will turn into dry, barren land. Forests will thin out. The air will grow dirtier. The Earth will heat up faster and faster. Climate change will speed up, and there will be fewer tools left to fight it. This isn’t just a food problem. It’s a life problem. Without bees, human life on Earth would become harder, sicker, and hungrier — and maybe even impossible. We Must Wake Up Now If we want to survive, we must act immediately. We cannot afford to wait until the damage is too great to fix. We must treat saving bees like saving clean water, clean air, and safe food. Because all those things depend on the bees. Here is what we must do — starting today: Teach beekeeping in schools. Students should learn how important bees are, how to protect them, and how to care for hives. Hands-on programs, not just textbooks, are needed. Create college and university programs in beekeeping. We need real training for people who want to become professional beekeepers. Managing bee health is a science that takes time to master. Support urban beekeeping. Cities must make space for rooftop gardens, bee parks, and community hives. Bees can thrive in cities if we give them the right help. Protect and support farmers who work with pollinators. We should give grants and rewards to farmers who use bee-friendly practices instead of harmful chemicals. Raise national awareness. Everyone — not just farmers — must understand that bees are tied to our food, our climate, and our future. Saving bees means saving the future. And saving the future must start now. There Is Hope — If We Act The good news is that we still have a chance. If we protect the bees, they can recover. Nature can heal — if we give it the tools it needs. Planting wildflowers, building bee gardens, banning dangerous chemicals, and training a new army of beekeepers are all steps we can take today. Every person, every city, and every country can make a difference. We must remember: When the bees go, we go. But if we fight for the bees, we fight for clean air. We fight for fresh food. We fight for a healthy, cooler Earth.We fight for our children’s future. The clock is ticking. The choice is ours. Save the bees — Save ourselves. The time is now.

When Looking for a Job, Imagine Yourself as a Renter

When Looking for a Job, Imagine Yourself as a Renter By Nick Kossovan You don't own your job; your employer does, making the phrase "my job" an oxymoron. Layoffs illustrate that jobs belong to employers, not employees. In 2025, as layoffs remain prevalent and the economy becomes more unpredictable, job seekers, as if in denial, continue to equate finding a job with finding a permanent home. This mindset leads to prolonged job searches. Employees are renters; they rent their jobs until they no longer want them or until their employer no longer requires their services. Layoffs demonstrate that employers are the landlords of jobs. Essentially, being laid off is akin to being evicted. By adopting a renter's mindset, job seekers can shorten their job search and stop seeking what doesn't exist—a permanent employment situation. When renting, the primary goal is to have a roof over your head. Since renting isn't permanent, we tend to accept 'less-than-ideal' circumstances (neighbourhood, kitchen layout, bathroom size). Similarly, in job searching, 'less than ideal' circumstances could be a lower salary, working onsite, or a less prestigious company. On the other hand, homeownership, in which understandably ideal circumstances are sought, is a long-term commitment involving a significant financial outlay and is far more challenging than renting. When looking for a job, consider it as searching for a rental situation that meets your immediate needs rather than pursuing your ideal work situation, which you can always continue to seek. However, keep in mind that whether your job is merely to pay your bills or it's your supposed "dream job," you're renting your job. For the last 20 years, the gig economy has been a topic of discussion, emphasizing that employees rent their jobs. Now that the gig economy is here, and people lament the broken hiring system. NEWSFLASH: Since no two employers assess candidates in the same way, there is no universal hiring system; therefore, there is no "broken hiring system." Those who take their careers seriously are strategic. They don't waste time or energy complaining about the imbalance in the employer-employee relationship, especially regarding hiring. When a job posting attracts 1,000 applicants for a single opening, the 999 candidates not selected often blame everyone and everything except themselves, particularly those with a sense of entitlement. Today's job market, as AI eliminates white-collar and creative jobs, illustrates the interplay between supply and demand. The rapid progress of AI and automation is swiftly eroding job security. In 2025, whether we like it or not, all employees are, to some degree, part of the gig economy. The Myth of Permanence Renters understand that their lease will eventually end. Employees must realize that their job, or the one they're pursuing, will also end. Companies evolve, industries change, and geopolitical interests shift, as is happening now with tariffs. Economies fluctuate, and consumers are fickle in their tastes and demands, which means any job can disappear overnight. Approaching your job search with a renter's mentality helps you remain flexible and adaptable without succumbing to the pressure of expecting your next job to last until retirement. Truism: Nothing lasts forever. Short-Term Mindset, Long-Term Benefits When you view your job search through the lens of a renter, you prioritize short-term experiences over long-term commitments. Ask yourself: What skills do I need to develop and show a track record of having used to further my career? What experiences will enhance my resume? By focusing on these questions, you can identify roles that meet your immediate needs rather than getting bogged down in trying to find the "perfect" job. Truism: You can always change jobs. The Importance of Flexibility Renters typically have a more flexible mindset. They understand that their landlord may change their living situation and are prepared to adapt. This flexibility is crucial in today's job market. Instead of fixating on a single role or company, broaden your search. Consider contract, part-time, or freelance positions that can provide valuable experience and networking opportunities, often leading to full-time employment. Truism: Flexibility isn't just a trait; it's a survival skill. Setting Realistic Expectations Most renters understand that compromise is necessary; the same applies to job searching. It's okay not to land your dream job, which will likely be a temporary situation anyway. Have realistic expectations and recognize that obtaining your desired job may take time and require extra effort—such as networking, being active on LinkedIn, and attending relevant industry events—and your journey will likely include detours. Truism: Patience is a virtue. Embracing the Journey Renters understand they don't own their home; hence, it's not theirs and, therefore, not permanent. This understanding requires embracing the journey of discovering new neighbourhoods or interacting with evolving neighbours. Even though job searching can be stressful, when approached with curiosity and an open mind, it transforms into an opportunity to explore new possibilities and connect with new people. Every experience, whether positive or negative, contributes to your growth. Truism: Job searching, as in life, is about the journey, not just the destination. Adopting a renter's mindset acknowledges that all jobs are temporary and that employees are now part of the gig economy, encouraging a pragmatic job search strategy. You're not seeking permanence; you're actively looking for opportunities that align with your aspirations. Moreover, you recognize that you don't control employers; you only control your mindset ___________________________________________________________________ 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

BIG GOVERNMENT CONTINUES TO TAKE MORE OF YOUR MONEY SPEED CAMERAS RAISE $MILLIONS IN FINES

BIG GOVERNMENT CONTINUES TO TAKE MORE OF YOUR MONEY SPEED CAMERAS RAISE $MILLIONS IN FINES IN A PREVIOUS COLUMN, I described what many over-burdened taxpayers see as the unrestrained liberty enjoyed by City and Regional governments to spend other people's money in ever increasing fashion, driven by an insatiable desire among bureaucrats and elected officials to advance what I like to call ‘Big Government’. This week we take a look at one method now being used by those in power to generate even more revenue to pay for their various spending schemes. SPEED CAMERAS - A CASH WINDFALL FOR MUNICIPAL COFFERS The Region of Durham website describes automated speed enforcement, or ASE, as being a “modern tool used to help enforce speed limits in school zones and community safety zones – places where kids tend to walk, run and play.” Permanent ASE devices are now in place throughout the region, including several locations within the city of Oshawa; most notably along the Simcoe Street corridor. In addition, mobile cameras are rotated regularly throughout the many community safety zones that have been established. The Region’s website describes all of this as being a part of their ‘Vision Zero’ plan to ensure a safer transportation system on local roads. It all sounds well intentioned, however, when you look at the incredible amount of revenue being generated in such a short time, you could be forgiven for taking this initiative as nothing more than an unjustified cash grab. One could go even further by suggesting the use of ASE devices is simply an attempt by municipalities to generate funds under the guise of ‘safety’ where no statistics have ever existed to warrant such a wide ranging initiative. In 2021, speed cameras in Durham Region brought in just shy of $4 million, and that revenue has been increasing year over year, although the actual ‘surplus’ has been slow to rise due to the cost of implementing the program. Fast forward to the 2024 fiscal year and you’ll see on the Region’s website they now anticipate an estimated surplus in the range of $2 million from last year's ASE operations. The Region has the effrontery to actually suggest the revenue generated by these speed cameras is simply “a byproduct of this enforcement” when in actual fact it’s the other way around. They even go on to inform residents of a plan to designate all roads with a 40km/h speed limit as “Community Safety Zones” enabling the prolific use of ASE cameras. This comes on the heels of a vote by Oshawa council to convert all residential neighbourhoods to 40 km/h speed limits in an 11-0 unanimous vote. Do you see a connection there? During the initial debate among councillors as to reducing overall speed limits, Ward 4 City councillor Derek Giberson had this to say: “I’m quite enthusiastic to be seconding this motion…and I do want to be sure we understand the report and the numbers…and what we have learned.” He went on to tell his colleagues, “I think there is a really important thing to be observed here…It’s the design of the road that determines driver behaviour. If it’s built for 60 km/h and it feels comfortable driving 60…you could put 10 km/h on a sign and you’re still going to have people driving 60. Posting a different speed limit doesn’t always result in the outcomes you want.” Councillor Giberson’s remarks go to the very heart of the issue, in that staff at both the Region of Durham and at Oshawa City hall know full well the accuracy of what the councillor identifies, and that an arbitrary reduction on roads designed and built for certain speeds is an unfair and cynical way of entrapping drivers into being forced to pay what can only be seen as a form of municipal taxation. This cash grab is spreading like a bad virus in communities throughout Ontario, as more and more councils seek to increase their revenue streams. The City of Brampton planned to acquire 100 additional ASE devices last year to add to the 50 already in use in their community. The mayor was reported as saying, “The generated revenue will be reinvested in our city’s infrastructure and community programs, making Brampton safer for our residents.” In Ottawa, a camera set up on a very busy street in 2023 generated 10,000 tickets and $650,000 in fines in just over two months. In Wellington County this year, five speed cameras have brought in $4 million in fines from 84,000 tickets in less than three months. Waterloo Region collected $1.6 million from four rotating speed cameras in 2024, with one councillor noting that under the new program, his region will be able to retain more revenue and invest it back into the community. In the city of Toronto, their automated speed enforcement program generated no less than a staggering $70 million in 2023. Regardless of the fact this new speed camera ‘pandemic’ is entirely curable, it is a disease that shows no signs of going away any time soon. Politicians at all levels are determined to move forward as they watch their monetary reserve funds completely overflow with cash. When debate ensues, elected officials and others will try to immediately stifle opposition by identifying a need to protect children in school zones, many of which are now down to a speed limit of 30 km/h. A recent study undertaken by a freelance data analyst in southwestern Ontario showed that pedestrian collisions near schools typically happen at intersections with traffic lights and at crosswalks, and that a better way to make pedestrians safer is to target collision ‘hot spots’ using physical measures such as speed humps, as well as crossing guards. On a final note, a recent media report stated that throughout the first quarter of 2025, Ottawa police were ticketed with 69 automated speed enforcement infractions and 23 red light camera infractions. These statistics were listed as ‘internal complaints’, with the Chief stating that “Depending on the circumstances, discipline may be imposed.” Meanwhile, the Region of Durham and the City of Oshawa continue to reach further and further into your pockets until, at some point, you may find yourself with nothing left to contribute.

Tax Increases and Wasteful Spending: Time for Accountability in Pickering

Tax Increases and Wasteful Spending: Time for Accountability in Pickering By Councillor Lisa Robinson As a city councillor and, more importantly, a concerned citizen, I find myself deeply troubled by the ongoing trend of excessive tax increases and wasteful spending that continues to burden the residents of Pickering. In 2025, our community faces a 3.75% municipal property tax increase, while Durham Region is imposing a staggering 5.8% hike in the regional levy. These increases are three times the current inflation rate, which hovers around 2%, placing an undue financial burden on taxpayers. But here’s the kicker: while residents are struggling with these higher taxes, our local government continues to pour taxpayer money into initiatives that lack measurable outcomes. Take, for example, the Hannover Messe 2025, an international trade fair in Germany where the Mayor and City staff traveled to represent Pickering at a significant cost to taxpayers. Thousands of dollars were spent on booths, travel, and accommodations, all in the name of “economic development.” But where are the results for Pickering residents? There’s little tangible evidence that these expensive ventures lead to real, local jobs, business growth, or direct benefits for our city. It’s frustrating to see so much public money spent with little to no return for those who are paying the bill. Unfortunately, the issue doesn’t stop there. Over the years, we have seen a troubling pattern of wasteful spending on consultants. In many cases, these consultants deliver work that is incomplete, poorly executed, or outright ineffective, only to see the city hire the same firms again, leading to costly rework and delays. This is money that could be better spent on improving our roads, supporting local businesses, or addressing the serious infrastructure needs in our community. If consultants are consistently failing to deliver quality work, then why are we paying them over and over? Why should taxpayers foot the bill for these failures? This pattern of mismanagement is compounded by a broader trend of poor project execution. We’ve seen initiatives that were started, only to be scrapped or redone because the original planning and execution were flawed. It’s not only wasteful but also demoralizing for taxpayers who are left footing the bill for government failures. As a city councillor, I believe it’s my responsibility to hold our local government accountable to the people. But, as a citizen, I share the growing frustration that many residents feel. It’s time for transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of taxpayer money. We cannot continue down this path of wasteful spending while residents are being asked to pay more, year after year, without seeing any tangible benefits in return. We need to refocus our priorities on what truly matters to the people of Pickering — better services, stronger infrastructure, and a more transparent and accountable local government. This needs to stop. Enough is Enough It’s time to hold our elected officials accountable for their spending, their decisions, and the impact those decisions have on all of us. If we don’t demand change, then we risk continuing this cycle of mismanagement that will ultimately harm our city in the long run. I am Councillor Lisa Robinson, “The People’s Councillor” Watch for my column each week in The Central..

We Need to Have a Good Talk About Healthcare

We Need to Have a Good Talk About Healthcare By Dale Jodoin As we head toward another election season, people are once again talking about housing, jobs, taxes—and yes, healthcare. But here’s the truth: we’re not really talking about it the way we should. We toss around slogans, blame politicians, and get into arguments online. But when it comes to actually fixing Canada’s broken healthcare system, everyone seems too scared to have a real, grown-up conversation. It’s time we sat down, took a deep breath, and had that talk. Because if we don’t? Things are only going to get worse. Canada Comes Second Last in Health Ranking A new report came out from a group called the Commonwealth Fund. They looked at 11 wealthy countries—like Germany, Australia, and the U.K.—and rated their healthcare systems. Canada came second last. That means 10 out of 11 countries are doing better than us. The only country ranked worse was the United States. Let that sink in. For a country that says we “take care of everyone,” we’re not doing a great job. People are waiting hours in emergency rooms, months to see a specialist, and even longer for surgery. Some folks are just giving up and paying out of pocket—if they can afford it. What’s Going Wrong? Let’s look at the facts. Here are some real numbers: Over 1.3 million Canadians left emergency rooms last year without being seen. Why? Because they waited too long and gave up. More than half of Canadians who needed to see a specialist had to wait over four weeks. Around 18% of people needing surgery waited more than four months. Canada has fewer doctors per person than most other developed countries. We also don’t have enough MRI or CT scanners, so even getting diagnosed takes longer. This isn’t just frustrating—it’s dangerous. Delays in care can mean worse outcomes, more stress, and even death. It’s Not the Nurses’ or Doctors’ Fault Let’s be clear: most of the people working in healthcare are doing their best. Nurses, doctors, paramedics, cleaners—many of them are burnt out, underpaid, and trying to help in a system that’s falling apart. So where’s the problem? The truth is, our healthcare system is run by too many layers of management, unions that won’t budge, and governments afraid to make changes. We have too many meetings and not enough action. Too much talk, not enough care. And no—this isn’t about “getting rid of unions.” But it is about putting adults in the room who can talk about hard truths. We need to be honest. We need to admit the system is broken and ask the tough questions: Should provinces have more freedom to try new solutions? Should private clinics be allowed for faster service, while still keeping basic care public? Should we let pharmacists and nurse practitioners do more? Should we open new training schools for nurses and doctors? Emergency Rooms Shouldn’t Be the Only Option Right now, if you get sick after 5 PM or on a weekend, your best hope is the emergency room. Why? Because walk-in clinics are closed, and many family doctors don’t offer after-hours care. That means ERs are packed with people who don’t need emergency care—they just have nowhere else to go. This slows everything down. People with real emergencies—like heart attacks or broken bones—get stuck behind people with ear infections and sore throats. We need to rethink this. More after-hours care. More mobile clinics. More home visits. Let’s take the pressure off hospitals. We Can’t Just Throw Money at It Some people say, “Just spend more!” But that’s not the answer either. Canada already spends more than most countries on healthcare. Yet we get less for it. Other countries—like Australia and the Netherlands—spend similar amounts but get better results. Their people wait less. Their systems are faster and more efficient. So maybe it’s not just about the money. Maybe it’s about how we’re spending it. We need to follow the money. How much goes to middle managers? How much paperwork? How much to consultants who never see a patient? If we’re going to fix things, we have to make sure every dollar is going where it counts—directly to patient care. Time to Get Real Here’s what I’m asking: Let’s stop pretending everything’s fine. Let’s stop blaming one political party or another. Let’s stop hiding behind slogans like “universal care” when the care isn’t really there. Let’s have that real talk—across kitchen tables, on radio shows, in town halls. Let’s talk about hard changes. Let’s talk about what’s working in other countries and what we can learn. Let’s listen to doctors and patients, not just union reps and bureaucrats. And let’s not wait for the next crisis. A System Worth Saving Despite all this, I still believe in public healthcare. I believe we should take care of each other. I believe no one should go bankrupt because they got sick. But believing in something doesn’t mean pretending it’s perfect. It means fighting to make it better. So let’s roll up our sleeves. Let’s act like grown-ups. Let’s fix this thing before it’s too late. We don’t need another election promise. We need a plan. Because our health—and the health of our country—depends on it.

PIE IN THE SKY 1.1 BILLION 50 MILLION TO PUT LIPSTICK ON A PIG… 8-9% TAX HIKE…

PIE IN THE SKY 1.1 BILLION 50 MILLION TO PUT LIPSTICK ON A PIG... 8-9% TAX HIKE... B.A. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States Come on people. Who is doing the thinking here? Do they think we are that stupid... Wait, maybe we are as we keep electing in the same old incompetents. These so called elected incompetents are so far out of touch with reality that they waste tax dollars without much care. Early this year. Some genius proposed a 1.1billion dollar gondola project that would some how transport people from the south end all the way over to Durham College. 1.1 Billion...We are not in the Swiss Alps. We are not in a mountainous region. This just plain does not make economic sense. It is as if we have people go over the problems on the street level. There is not homeless, drugs, prostitution in our city. Insane. I personally call for the resignation of all that voted for such a wasteful expenditure. PEOPLE ARE STARVING IN OUR CITY. PEOPLE ARE LIVING ON THE STREETS. PEOPLE ARE OVER DOSING IN OUR RAVINES. Question, who of those supporting this insanity are getting a kickback.... How else can you explain it. Just recently, it was posted that there is a proposed in secret(camera) plan to further flush 50 million dollars in the GM arena. An arena that cost the City 50 million to erect. 1 million to operate. This means suckers like you have been paying for the maintenance of this facility since it was erected. Without one year of profit. Now, they want to sink in another 30 million. WHO IS DOING THE THINKING HERE. BUT WAIT, WE ARE ON THE EVE OF A MUNICIPAL ELECTION. I guess sinking your hard earned tax dollars will be deemed progress for some elected officials.... Disgusting. 50 million to put lipstick on a pig. Who is getting the kickback... you think not! Look at the line up of contractors they already have lined up. The new building additions never made it to a tender of bid process. 50 million of your hard dollars. The politicians will go harping at look at progress we are making in Oshawa. Meanwhile not telling you that the facility has been nothing but a money pit. Not, one year has generated a profit. The City is so scared of loosing the Generals... that they are pulling another GM. In fear of loosing GM. They did nothing. Subsequently we are left with an environmental mess. In the Generals case. Should we worry about them leaving? Should we care? As they have failed to support local businesses. Games are poorly advertised and it appears as a one way benefit... and not that of Oshawa taxpayers. Go Gens Go. No literally... Go Gens. We can’t afford you...

The Legacy of Pope Francis

The Legacy of Pope Francis by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East Reflecting on the peaceful Easter celebrations of millions of catholic, protestant and orthodox Christians, the sad news of the passing of Pope Francis into eternity came as a crushing blow. Here in Canada we are currently focused on the crucial federal elections soon coming to an end. Our national focus is evidenced by the more than 7.3 million Canadians who have already voted during the Easter holiday advance polls. However, we cannot ignore the death of Pope Francis. He was one of the most humane and dedicated persons to the wellbeing of humanity. Pope Francis died on Monday the 21st of April, the day after Easter, at the age of 88. As the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, he left behind a legacy of service, unity, and compassion. Jorge Mario Bergoglio was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and was the son of Italian immigrants. He was named a Cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 2001 and was elected pope on March 13, 2013. Pope Francis was the first non-European pope in more than a millennium and the first Latin American pontiff. He preached peace and acceptance and reflected those values through his actions. He was the first pope to address a joint meeting of Congress in the United States and the first pope to visit the Arabian Peninsula, known as the birthplace of Islam, a historic moment for interfaith dialogue. Pope Francis (born Jorge Mario Bergoglio) 17 December 1936 – 21 April 2025) was the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State from 2013 until his death in 2025. He was the first pope from the Society of Jesus (the Jesuit Order), the first Latin American, the first from the Americas, the first from the Southern Hemisphere, and the first born or raised outside of Europe since the Syrian pope Gregory III in the 8th century. Bergoglio was inspired to join the Jesuits in 1958 after recovering from severe illness. He was ordained a Catholic priest in 1969, and from 1973 to 1979 he was the Jesuit provincial superior in Argentina. He became the archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and was made a cardinal in 2001 by Pope John Paul II. Following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI on the 28th of February 2013, a papal conclave elected Bergoglio as his successor on the 13th of March. He chose Francis as his papal name in honour of Saint Francis of Assisi. Throughout his public life, Francis was noted for his humility, emphasis on God's mercy, international visibility as pope, concern for the poor, and commitment to interreligious dialogue. On the night of his election, he took a bus back to his hotel with the cardinals rather than being driven in the papal car. The next day, he visited Cardinal Jorge María Mejía in the hospital and chatted with patients and staff. In addition to his native Spanish, he spoke fluent Italian (the official language of Vatican City and the "everyday language" of the Holy See) and German. He was also conversant in Latin (the official language of the Holy See), French, Portuguese, and English; he also understood Piedmontese and some Genoese Ligurian. He was known for having a less formal approach to the papacy than his predecessors. For instance, he chose to reside in the Domus Sanctae Marthae (House of St. Martha) guest house rather than in the papal apartments of the Apostolic Palace used by previous popes. In addition, due to both his Jesuit and Ignatian aesthetic, he was known for favoring simpler vestments devoid of ornamentation, including refusing the traditional papal mozzetta cape upon his election, choosing silver instead of gold for his piscatory ring, and keeping the same pectoral cross he had as a cardinal. Francis made women full members of dicasteries in the Roman Curia. Pope Francis was a critic of trickle-down economics, consumerism, and overdevelopment. He viewed the death penalty as inadmissible in all cases, and committed the Catholic Church to its worldwide abolition. In international diplomacy, he helped to restore full diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba, negotiated a deal with the People's Republic of China to define Communist Party influence in appointing Chinese bishops, and supported the cause of refugees. He encouraged peace between Israel and Palestinians, called protection of migrants a "duty of civilisation" and criticised anti-immigration politics world-wide. In 2022, he apologized for the Church's role in the cultural genocide of Canadian Indigenous peoples in residential schools. Pope Francis convened the Synod on Synodality, which was described as the culmination of his papacy and the most important event in the Catholic Church since the Second Vatican Council. He made his last public appearance on Easter Sunday, the day before he died. With his passing we lost a true champion of humanity. Many world leaders will pay ultimate tribute to Pope Francis, protector of the poor and disadvantaged and champion for world peace. May he rest in peace!

Cottage renovations

Cottage renovations By Theresa Grant Real Estate columnist Although we currently seem to be in a struggle to enjoy some actual spring like weather, it won’t be long before the weekly grind of loading up the car and taking your place in the steady and sometimes unforgiving line of traffic heading to the cottage on a Friday night is upon us. Most cottagers like to open their cottages around the May 24th weekend. The unofficial start to summer. With this past winter being a little harsher than we are used to here in Southern Ontario, many cottage owners will be needing to do some repairs, while others will just be undertaking planned renovations. Whichever category you fall under, make sure to protect yourself and your wallet if you plan to hire someone or a company to do the work for you. While there are many reputable companies and good-hearted people that may help you, there are others that will take the money and run. All too often we see the stories in the paper or hear them on the evening news. Some unsuspecting person will listen to a smooth-talking salesperson slash rip-off artist tell them what a fabulous job they can do for them at an amazing price. Usually, they will ask for a sizable amount of money up front. They will tell you that it is to purchase materials and so forth to get the work started. This is where it can get tricky. If you give them cash, they show up for a day or two and request more money, or they may not show up again at all and just be off with the money you gave them. If you are looking to have some work done on your cottage, it is best to look to the closest small town to your cottage. There is usually a Home Hardware or something like that in the small cottage towns. They would be a good starting point. There are also many local contractors that live full-time in the small cottage towns that may be interested in your project. You might think about advertising exactly what it is you are looking to have done and then interview a few different people for the job. I know a family that offers the use of their cottage for a couple of weeks a year to a fellow in exchange for work that he does while he’s there with his family. Regardless of the route you choose in hiring someone to do the work for you, just make sure you are not parting with a large sum of money to an unknown person before any work gets started.