PLANNING FOR SEAMLESS BUS RAPID TRANSIT

By Maurice Brenner Regional Councillor Ward 1 Pickering At this weeks Transit Executive Meeting, we had an opportunity to learn more about the Plans for the Durham-Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit (DSBRT) Over the next decade, Durham Region will see significant changes to rapid transit across the Region (Kingston Road/Highway 2). The goal is to move more people and reduce the dependency on vehicles. Metrolinx has completed its business plan to construct 36km of bus rapid transit (BRT) from Scarborough to Whitby. Research confirms that during the first 5-years of launching the BRT service on Kingston Road there was a 50% increase in transit ridership. But more work needs to be done. The current patch work of bus lanes along Kingston Road will be changing. The preliminary design business case ((PDBC) which is currently in progress, will be subject to First Nations consultations which may impact timelines. Once approved we will see Median BRT lanes similar to what exists along Highway 7 in York Region, heated median bus shelters and an active transportation facility. Seamless, accessible sidewalks and cycling lanes will also be completed making it safer for walkers and for cyclists. Construction is expected to begin in Pickering with each phase expected to take approximately 3-5 years Dixie to Bainbridge – Construction starts 2025, Steeple Hill to Merritton – Construction starts 2025. For the section between Merritton to Dixie – Construction could start in 2027 once details have been worked out to widen Kingston Road under the the rail bridge. Moving east to Ajax and Whitby construction will take place between Harwood to Wicks sometime in 2024, Wicks to Galea construction could start in 2025 and Lake Ridge to Des Newman construction could start in 2026 The contracts will be administered by the Region of Durham. It is recognized that construction will have impacts on our already congested road network which is why expectation is to minimize from start to finish to 3-5 years. from start to finish for each phase, concerns have been flagged as to the negative impact this will have on traffic. No fewer than 2 lanes will remain open during the construction period. While there will be some congestion, once completed Durham Region will see faster and more reliable transit service that will encourage new ridership by providing a viable alternative to taking the car. There is also an expectation that for every $1 invested in rapid transit, it generates $4-$5 in economic returns and close to 50,000 jobs per $1 billion. As the process evolves, it is important that we ensure that Durham Region and DRT continue to involve and engage the Public and in particular users of Public Transit. Stay tuned and watch for more updates on future DRT initiatives.

Canada corporate welfare gone wild?

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East In the past few years, Ottawa, Ontario, and Quebec have been using public funds to kick-start the development and commercialization of advanced technologies in practically everything. Ranging from clean-energy steelmaking in Ontario to “green cement” in Edmonton, taxpayers are footing the bill. Government largesse is evident in the heavily subsidized electric vehicle (EV) battery plant Volkswagen AG plans to build in St. Thomas, Ont. Routinely decried as a $13 billion taxpayer expense, Ottawa and VW actually negotiated a range of $6 billion to $13 billion over 10 years, conditional on rising production volumes at the plant. Queen’s Park is kicking in an additional $500 million. Similar government support will likely be asked for the Windsor, Ont. battery factory planned as a joint venture of Stellantis N.V., parent of Chrysler and Fiat, and South Korea’s LG Energy Solutions. Most of the VW money will only start flowing once the St. Thomas plant is operational, which may take several years. That funding also stops if there is a cancellation of similar subsidies offered by the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act. Ottawa’s upfront expense is $700 million to cover about 10 per cent of the cost of building what will be Canada’s biggest manufacturing facility. Its footprint equals about 350 football fields, so it will possibly be the biggest EV battery plant in North America when completed. Such corporate welfare largesse continues to bloom without any regard for taxpayers’ money. Honda Canada, joined by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced last week that it will build four new manufacturing plants in Ontario, including an electric vehicle assembly plant and a standalone battery manufacturing plant at its current facilities in Alliston, Ont. The Japanese company already employs 4,200 people in its existing Alliston facility, but statements from Honda and both the federal and provincial governments say the facility's two new plants will produce up to 240,000 vehicles per year and create more than 1,000 "well-paying manufacturing jobs" once fully operational in 2028. The announcement included $5 billion in government assistance, half from the feds through tax credits and half from Ontario in direct and indirect incentives. So why is this corporate welfare directed at Canadian industrial sectors of existing strength, like autos, steel, telecommunications, and building materials? If the thinking is that these choices will substantially reduce the risk of governments picking the wrong “winners”, perhaps they should think again. Although the auto sector employs more than 125,000 Canadians directly, supports almost 700 Canadian parts suppliers, and contributes about $19 billion to GDP, it has long been in decline. It has slipped to about 12th in global rankings. Ottawa and Ontario have high hopes for the battery plants in St. Thomas, Alliston and Windsor. Let us hope that this investment of taxpayers’ money was well researched and thought through with engineering support, to avoid the major financial losses incurred by other recent government subsidized projects, like the Covid vaccine enterprise for example. Even if corporate welfare is not limited, or outright eliminated, we need a mechanism for taxpayers to have input into the government’s adventurous commitment of their money. Let us take a look at how well corporate welfare presently works in Canada. According to a recent study published by the Fraser Institute, between 2007 and 2019, federal, provincial and local governments in Canada spent $352.1 billion (inflation-adjusted) subsidizing firms. This is more than was spent on national defence over the same period. This corporate welfare, which does little to stimulate widespread economic growth, came with huge costs to government budgets and Canadian taxpayers. This total corporate welfare price tag—which included $76.7 billion in federal subsidies, $223.3 billion in provincial subsidies and $52.1 billion in local subsidies only reflects unrequited government transfers to businesses. It excludes other forms of government support such as loan guarantees, direct investment and regulatory privileges for particular firms or industries. So if you suspect that the actual level of corporate welfare during this 13-year period was much higher, you’re probably right. For Canadians who filed taxes between 2007 and 2019 (the latest year of available pre-COVID data), the cost per tax filer ranged from a high of $18,785 in Saskatchewan to a low of $6,048 in New Brunswick. Quebec, Alberta and Ontario were big spenders. Here the cost of corporate welfare per tax filer was $18,334, $13,285, and $12,627, respectively. That is a significant amount of taxpayer money unavailable for more acute priorities to benefit the population. Such spending might be justified if it led to widespread economic benefits. However, there is little evidence that business subsidies generate widespread economic growth and/or job creation. In fact, research suggests that business subsidies may actually hurt the economy as the government’s interference in the market ultimately distorts private decision-making and misallocates resources. Instead of giving preferential treatment to select firms and industries, government should play a role in funding science, which is the future of any successful economic enterprise. In the marketplace, government should help foster a pro-growth environment that gives all businesses the opportunity to thrive by reducing business income tax rates. The Fraser Institute study also found that government spending on corporate welfare represents a significant share of business income tax revenues. For instance, from 2007 to 2019, Quebec and Manitoba spent roughly the same amount of money on business subsidies as they collected in business income tax revenues. So the provincial government could have effectively eliminated provincial business income taxes if it had ended provincial corporate welfare. Similarly, business subsidies represented roughly half of all business income tax revenue (on average) in Ontario and roughly one-third (on average) in Alberta. Had that money been used to broadly reduce business income taxes, it would have stimulated investment, job creation and economic growth. Clearly, business subsidies (a.k.a. corporate welfare) come with significant costs to Canadian taxpayers and government budgets. Because these subsidies do not produce the broad economic benefits that advocates claim, governments should rein in this spending and focus on pro-growth tax reductions. It is fair to say that the recent outpouring of corporate subsidies by Canadian governments is without precedent. Trudeau isn’t the only guilty one, however. Also, look at Ford, who likes to say he’s sticking up for the little guy. So why is he taking your money and giving $2.5 billion to Honda, more than $4 billion to Volkswagen and $5 billion to Stellantis – the company that makes Maserati and Alfa Romeo. Does he really think Honda, Volkswagen and Maserati are the little guys? When Ford first ran for office, he said he would stop “picking winners and losers” and cut taxes for everyone. Does it look like the taxpayer party is over for corporate lobbyists? This needs to be discussed openly and thoroughly. Politicians and administrators need to seek public input on these policies. Is the government subsidy of selected industries a wise use of public money? Your time to reflect.

Reality of Job Searching: There’s Always Someone Better Than You

By Nick Kossovan I always remind myself that there is someone younger, hungrier, and more skilled than I am; in other words, there's always someone better than I am. This keeps me humble and on my toes. Who can't relate to "wanting the best"? Employers can't be blamed for seeking and holding out for the "best" candidate, especially in a job market flooded with candidates. Every recruiter, HR professional, and hiring manager knows no perfect candidate exists. Yet, they still hunt for purple squirrels. Today's job market: · The number of jobs has decreased. · The number of candidates has increased. · Fewer people are leaving their job. With so many people seeking work, employers have, along with access to technology that can do the work—job seekers and employees are entering an era where they're starting to compete against AI, along with robotics—and cost-effective alternatives, such as hiring freelancers, contractors and sending jobs overseas, an array of options to get their jobs done. Hence, there's always the feeling that there's someone or something better out there. An interviewer's thoughts after an interview: "Yeah, [name] ticks off most of the boxes, but with all the resumes we're getting, there's a good chance I'll find someone who ticks off all the boxes." It’s common for employers to keep job postings open for several months while they try to find a candidate with specific skills, education, certification, and experience rather than hire for "potential," which is impossible to determine. Right now, candidates with shinier resumes and LinkedIn profiles than yours are going after the same jobs you're gunning for. The ocean of job seekers is filled with more experienced fish. However, there's a bright side; being "the best" is highly subjective. Perfect on paper or LinkedIn doesn't always equate to perfect in person. While employers seek the best, it should be noted that "the best" isn't always quantifiable, and skills and experience aren't the only things hiring managers consider. In actuality, "the best" is more about compatibility with the company’s culture and your interviewer(s)— especially if your interviewer will be your boss—and timing, which you have no control over, than "there's always someone better." There's no mythical unfairness or unseen forces at play other than life happening. Here's a question to ponder: Which reasons did you feel contributed to you not being hired for the jobs you interviewed for? Was it because the employer felt it was in their best interest to continue looking for a better candidate, or was it something else? Putting aside your self-interests, do you think the employers who didn't hire you made a mistake? If "yes," why? In previous columns, I've mentioned that being likable supersedes your skills and experience. Your charisma, character, smile, clothes, and how you present yourself physically will either work for you or against you. It's not rocket science to self-reflect and figure out which of your qualities, behaviours, and physical characteristics entices or repels employers. Prioritizing being likable over your skills and experience is a job search strategy that more job seekers should adopt. Several years ago, I was competing against another candidate for a position I was excited about. After three interviews and an online personality assessment, I was blown out of the water. Compared to past rejections, this one really hurt. Curious about who got hired, I kept an eye on the company's LinkedIn page to see when new employees appeared. Several weeks later, the person I lost out to updated their LinkedIn profile and appeared as a new employee. When I read their profile, I thought, "Damn! I'd hire her over me." She ticked off all the boxes and many more outside of skills and experience. When you get an interview, it's because what the employer read on your resume, LinkedIn profile, and social media appealed to them on some level, and they feel you could do the job. Now comes the difficult part, selling yourself as the best candidate. Your goal is to stop your interviewer from thinking there are better candidates out there than you, and not hiring you would be a mistake. Work in statements that illustrate why you're the best candidate. 1. "I'm excited about this opportunity because…" 2. "I really enjoy [product or service offered by the company]." 3. "I admire the way you [or the company]..." 4. "I solved a similar problem." 5. "I'm a match for this job because…" 6. "I consider this job a good match for my long-term goals, and I would like to continue building my career with this company." 7. "Collaborating with others is one of my greatest strengths." 8. "One of the things I would keep an eye on if I were hired is..." Despite many hiring managers' attempts, it’s impossible to determine "the best" candidate during the recruitment process based on a measurable scale alone. Therefore, stop fretting about being "the best" and focus on being the best and likable version of yourself. I've yet to meet a hiring manager who hired a candidate they didn't like, no matter how much they thought the candidate's skills and experience were "the best." _____________________________________________________________________ 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

QUESTO, E-COSI! -- KEFFIYEH

By Rosaldo Russo Allow me to begin this column by thanking the Oshawa/Central newspaper for allowing me the opportunity and access to the press. Not to many if any allow an average person like me to tell the world what I see and think. In my opinion. The Editor/Publisher is a real upstanding type of guy. He shoots from the hip and hold traditional core values. My name is Rosaldo Russo. I came to this great country to make a better life for myself and my family. I thank Canada for everything it has allowed me to do and earn. I worked construction all my life. I know the value of hard work and honesty. I remember as a boy my father always telling me to work hard and buy land. So I did. I remember days when I did not have enough to eat. I go to work... but I did not wait for hand outs. I rounded up my pride my skill and my determination to succeed and went to work. In those days the only benefits we received was the fact we were employed. Before retiring I was the owner and operator of local material supply company that allowed me to retired without worry. Now that I have time to enjoy life. I look around me and have some concern for future generations. I see that the world is finished. This week it was brought to my attention that an MPP attempted to wear one of these Keffiyeh during session and was kindly asked to leave the Ontario Legislature. Apparently Sarah Jama thought it would be appropriate to wear one of these Keffiyeh during session as a sign of open public disobedience and a slap in the face to all Canadians. Canadian culture, customs and traditions. The argument was that she had the right to support a terrorist group called Hamas. A group that is using the people of Palestine as their shield against an onslaught ass kicking by the Israeli. Hamas, initiated this and now we the people of Canada have to support their cowardly attempts to cry wolf. Really. I say, that this Sarah Jama does not represent Canadian values and traditions and that she should be expelled as an MPP. So should the two other supporters that decided to walk out with her. MPP Joel Harden and Kristyn Wong-Tam. What is the meaning of the kufiya? The History and Significance of the Hirbawi Black and White ...In Palestinian culture, the kufiya is designed to resemble a fishnet, symbolizing the livelihood of the Palestinian. These type of garments are far from Canadian. Far from in the best interest of the people of Canada. These three politicians should be made an example. That unless it is Canada first. You do not belong in government pretending to work in the best interest of the Canadian people and supporting foreign wars. We are Canadian first. As representative of the people of Canada it should not be allowed for our representatives to dress like foreigners. Upholding foreign cultures and agendas. I think they should incorporate this in citizenship. Canada first. You want to continue with your traditions and culture. Do it privately. The wear of this scarf to me is insulting. I worked all my life to contribute and respect traditions and Canadian customs. To have an MPP disrespect me and Canada’s heritage, customs, traditions. No excuse. In Trumps words. “THEY SHOULD BE FIRED”. Send a clear message to all. Canada for Canadians.

Logic newsprint is dead not!!!

By Joe Ingino Editor/Publisher ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States “I live a dream in a nightmare world” Always Remember That The cosmic blueprint of your life was written in code across the sky at the moment you were born. Decode Your Life By Living It Without Regret or Sorrow. - ONE DAY AT A TIME - In the newspaper industry there are three types of publishers. The incoming - the outgoing and those that have no clue what they are doing. The latter are the ones responsible for damaging the integrity of the industry. Companies like SNAP, SNAP’ed, Oshawa Life, Neighbour and the many other fly by niters. A bunch of socialite editors that have no clue on the industry and rely on brown nosing photo opt politicians, promise the world and deliver empty promises. This tarnishing the integrity of real publications of actually giving clients value for their invested dollar in advertising. The incoming think they can take the world by storm and in many cases fail to establish a solid vision for their publication. You, must have solid direction and a timeline for when to accomplish goals. At the Central we always respected those established before us and made sure we never competed. Instead we created our own market and assured customer satisfaction was our prime goal. This philosophy has made us number one today and a leader in our industry. Many incoming do not do this. Many incoming just attempt to copy the outgoing’s papers style and hope for the best. Normally these publications are free to the public. Mistake one. Normally these publications are monthly or bi-weekly as they can’t establish a solid client base. Any publication that does not charge, by it’s own admittance has no readership. This is why it has to be given for free. Many of these free publications are the first to go out of business and in Durham we have had our share of publishing failures. The outgoing publishers or publications (Metroland) are those that have been entrenched in the community they served for so long that they really do not care. Their primary goal is to maintain the status quo and use the political influence in those communities to benefit financially. The outgoing publishers are more prone to fall for fads like online publishing. It is cheap to advertise online.... Unfortunately you get what you paid for. Who is really online? Today internet has become nothing short of a public toilet. The promise of millions of viewers when in reality on any given post if your lucky you get 10 viewers. Why is this you may be asking. Well, the sea of millions is made up for a particular niche. The average person is far from that niche. The niche is made up of teams of online tech support that know how to manipulate and influence trends and fad online. For the average entity. This is way out of their budgets.... This in part is why public notices by municipalities online are failing. No one is getting their notices. The municipalities and the Region all made the same mistake. Making the assumption that all taxpayers have internet, computers and or smart phones. Road side signs don’t work. Road side signs work on the 3 second rule. If you audience does not grasp the message in 3 seconds. That billboard is a waste of time and money. Going to public building to read boards is not working out as people are busy enough to go to building to find out what is happening in their communities. Then what is the answer? Simple. People by the thousands are demanding that municipalities publish in their local newspapers, I know so because we get all the new subscribers. Local newspaper are superior to national papers as the local papers are published by a local small business doing a big job. Also local papers are time proven and trusted to be true. Online is proving to not work. Even for the debunked Metroland. Their online version is seriously failing. In print newspaper is making a huge come back. So much so that The Central is exploring taking over markets right across the GTA. Support your local small business making a huge difference in the way you stay informed. READ THE CENTRAL YOUR NUMBER ONE SOURCE FOR NEWS IN DURHAM

The Truth Will Set You Free

By Lisa Robinson - Pickering City Councillor In today's world, it often feels like questioning the narrative pushed by those in positions of power is like committing a cardinal sin. Many people are confused as they look at the truth being told it’s evil, while evil is being pushed down our throats to be looked at as truth. Many confused with this reality are afraid to speak out for fear of the repercussions of being labeled as conspiracy theorists, bigots, racists, you know the usual. It’s become very “normalized” to insult and call people names to whom you do not agree. Especially by those keyboard warriors over social media with fake accounts. Politics is no different. Whether it's city staff, politicians, developers, or consultants, there's a prevailing expectation that their version of events is beyond reproach, and anyone daring to challenge the status quo is swiftly labeled as being the problem. In my opinion, the real issue lies in the many different manipulation tactics employed by these individuals and entities. They are well-versed in the art of steering public opinion to serve their own interests, not the people’s. From meticulously crafted websites and carefully curated social media posts to surveys designed to yield predetermined outcomes, every tool in their arsenal tool kit is wielded to shape the narrative in their favour. And when faced with inconvenient truths or probing questions, they resort to tactics like half-truths or verbal diarrhea, all in an attempt to deflect attention away from the crux of the matter and make it all about you, the alleged perceived problem. It's a phenomenon reminiscent of the frog boiling method which I have written about in a previous op-ed about the gradual, imperceptible changes to the environment that lull the unsuspecting into complacency until it's too late to react. Many among us remain too busy or lazy to delve into the truth or even entertain a different perspective. It's this lack of critical thinking skills that allows authoritarian and/or dictatorial tendencies to seep into our everyday lives virtually going unnoticed. The irony is stark when we consider the tales of resistance that captivate us on the silver screen. Whether it's the dystopian worlds of "Divergent," "V for Vendetta," “Terminator” or "The Hunger Games," we readily identify with the brave souls who defy tyranny and champion freedom. Yet, when confronted with similar dynamics in reality, some choose to look the other way, their eyes firmly shut to the encroaching shadows of oppression. History has proven that when leaders exploit economic hardships, and societal grievances using propaganda to manipulate public opinion, it willlead to the rise of authoritarian regimes and the erosion of democratic principles. Mark my words, you are, this is, history in the making, and years from now they too will be wondering how did the people let this happen. But as Simon wrote, "A leader is someone who can see what everyone else can see, but can think differently." True leadership demands the courage to challenge the status quo, to question everything, and to employ critical thinking skills in the pursuit of truth and justice. It's high time we heed the lessons of our favorite fictional heroes and become the architects of our own destiny. Stop being a slave to your phones, stop relying on mainstream media, and politicians to tell you the tailored truth, and emerge yourself in research. It’s not a coincidence that what is happening here in Pickering is also happening across Canada, and other parts of the world. Stop blindly accepting the narratives handed down to us. One of the first things I was told as a Politician was “These people are not your friends.” It didn’t take me long to recognize the truth in that advice. But even more importantly, was when I realized that statement wasn’t solely for me, it was directed to all of us, the people. Don’t be afraid to speak the truth, for as the saying goes, “The truth will set you free.” "Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head-On And Rise Above It"

UNDERSTANDING YOUR RIGHTS

Tahir Khorasanee, LL.M. Senior Associate, Steinbergs LLP Financial institutions are often accused of using fraud investigations as a guise to oust “troublesome” mortgage advisors. A case in point is a mortgage advisor who was wrongfully accused of fraud by the Bank of Nova Scotia and was subsequently awarded $919,268. Mortgage advisors frequently inquire if they can take legal action against their employers for damaging their reputation and hindering their chances of employment with other prominent financial institutions. The response is affirmative; they can file a lawsuit for defamation. The criteria for defamation, as outlined in Grant v. Torstar Corp., 2009 SCC 61, [2009] 3 SCR 640, at paras. 28ff, include the dissemination of a statement that (a) refers to the plaintiff, (b) is communicated to a third party, and (c) carries a defamatory connotation or insinuation that diminishes the plaintiff’s reputation in the eyes of reasonable individuals. The determination of whether the statement is defamatory is objective, i.e., an average person would perceive the statement as damaging to the plaintiff’s reputation. However, the ultimate determinant is the mortgage advisors’ willingness to engage in litigation. Gary Curtis, a former Mortgage Development Manager at the Bank of Nova Scotia (BNS), found himself in the midst of a legal dispute that lasted over ten years. The case, which originated as a wrongful termination and defamation lawsuit, transformed into a concentrated defamation claim following several amendments. Gary was a top-performing Mortgage Development Manager at The Bank of Nova Scotia. There was a disagreement over whether he ranked #5 or #4 in overall performance. He argued that the bank inaccurately calculated his sales below his group leader’s to exclude him from an exclusive group entitled to special benefits. After a 12-year tenure, The Bank of Nova Scotia suspended him under the pretext of a covert fraud investigation, compelling him to resign. The bank accepted his resignation and marked his employment file as “ineligible for rehire.” On May 3, 2012, an investigator initiated a “SIFT” alert on the Bank Crime Prevention and Investigation Office (BCPIO) of the Canadian Bankers Association (CBA) database, citing the following reasons in the SIFT Database Input Request Form: Substantial evidence was discovered indicating that Curtis intentionally submitted fraudulent documents on multiple applications. These documents included falsified Notices of Assessment (NOA’s), employment letters, pay stubs, and financial statements, as well as bank documents bearing forged customer signatures. These actions, in isolation, constitute a prima facie case concerning the alleged fraud. Curtis resigned during the investigation. Gary received job offers from the mortgage departments of two other major banks. However, due to the SIFT alert, each offer was promptly rescinded after the prospective employers contacted BNS and were informed that Gary had submitted fraudulent documentation in support of mortgage applications. A third bank rejected his application after receiving this information from BNS. BNS maintained the SIFT alert for seven years, effectively preventing Gary from securing employment with a major financial services institution at the peak of his career. Gary’s professional trajectory took a drastic turn when he was accused of submitting fraudulent mortgage applications. Despite his stellar performance, the bank’s investigation resulted in a “SIFT” alert that effectively barred him from employment in major financial institutions. The Ontario Superior Court of Justice held the bank accountable for defamation, as it failed to substantiate the veracity of its statements or the defense of qualified privilege. Gary was awarded $919,268. Ultimately the case turned on BNS’ inability to prove from the evidence that it had a basis to conclude Gary was involved in fraudulent activity. This case underscores the intricacies of defamation law and the delicate balance between safeguarding reputation and upholding freedom of expression.

New Federal Ridings and the impact on Durham Region

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East As of this week, any federal election called will be based on an entirely new electoral map. There are major changes in the GTA as well as the Durham Region, where serious tensions could emerge. After each decennial (10-year) census, independent electoral boundaries commissions review and, if necessary, make changes to the electoral districts in each province to reflect changes and movements in Canada's population. The commissions determine the boundaries so that the number of people in each electoral district is as equal as reasonably possible, while also taking into account communities of interest or identity, historical patterns and geographic size in sparsely populated regions. As a result of the most recent changes, Canada will have 343 electoral districts instead of the previous 338, and as such, 343 new Members of Parliament. The new ridings in the Durham region are Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, Pickering-Brooklin, Bowmanville–Oshawa North, and York-Durham. The ridings of Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa were relatively unchanged. However, the riding of Pickering-Uxbridge became Pickering-Brooklin with Uxbridge transferred to the new riding of York-Durham. Major changes occurred in the old Durham riding of former Conservative Leader Erin O’Toole, which is undergoing a seismic shift, as Durham is set to be dissolved into two new ridings: York-Durham for its northern half and Bowmanville-Oshawa North for its southern half. Of the two new ridings, York-Durham is of particular interest. The sizable electoral district now includes parts of the Conservative held York-Simcoe (which no longer exists) and Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock (Conservative held). But, it also contains Liberal ground: about half of Markham-Stouffville and two-thirds of Pickering-Uxbridge. The Liberals have previously posted healthy leads in the both former ridings, but at least one incumbent, Helena Jaczek, has announced she will not be running for re-election. Pickering-Brooklin, meanwhile, is a riding many Conservative hopefuls are eying. Such keen interest means that the stage could be set for interesting Durham Region electoral showdowns. In Durham Region we will have 6 federal ridings instead of the 5 held previously. Until the next federal election, we have three Liberal holds and two Conservative. Many things will happen in the coming months, with parties selecting candidates and getting ready for the election, which will probably be held sometime in 2025. For the moment Elections Canada estimates that if the 2021 federal election were held with the new boundaries in place, the Liberals would have three fewer seats and the Conservatives would gain seven. Meanwhile, in the GTA, it appears that the Conservatives have a chance of picking up several new seats. While many ridings are undergoing few to no changes, there are a handful, including the Durham Region, where the state of play could become spicy. As of today, ridings in the Durham Region play out as follows: Oshawa, Bowmanwille-Oshawa North and York-Durham will likely be Conservative, while Pickering-Brooklin and Whitby lean Conservative and Ajax leans Liberal. With the situation in the country becoming more complicated both economically and socially we all hope that the next election will be able to bring about some badly needed changes. Compounded with influences from a rapidly shifting geopolitical situation, the next election should bring interesting surprises. Looking at the current military and political turmoil in Europe and the Middle East, we can already sense that they will have an influence on the electoral situation in Canada. The latest Middle East conflict is particularly troubling in that regard. Six months after Hamas's deadly Oct. 7, 2023 attacks on Israel, during which nearly 1,200 people were killed and about 250 were taken hostage, a war has broken out that has claimed more civilian lives in Gaza. As a result, Canadian political parties have been forced to navigate difficult issues raised by a bloody conflict that has deeply divided the electorate. The ways in which the parties have reacted and the positions they have taken — on matters such as funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) and an NDP-sponsored motion that called on the government to work toward recognizing a Palestinian state — are having an impact on their support in different communities. Such events and events that will follow until the next election is called, will add to the uncertainty of the election results. We must observe, participate and do the best for our country in the next election. In the end, Canada that should matter most to all of us. We all live here, and we need to learn to live together and build the future of our children. What do you think?

CANADA FLAG PROUD

By Dale Jodoin In our town and across our country, there used to be one flag that everyone knew and respected. It was our flag, the one that stood for our whole nation. It reminded us of freedom—the freedom to speak, to think, and to follow any religion. When we heard stories about our brave soldiers fighting to protect these freedoms, we would look up at our flag and feel proud. But things have changed. Now, it seems like every month there's a new flag or a new cause that we're supposed to learn about and remember. Our old flag, the one that used to fly high above everything else, doesn’t get the same attention anymore. It feels like it's just given one day to shine, while other flags and causes get a whole month or more. Our flag used to be everywhere—above schools, city halls, and public squares. But now, other flags stand tall in those places, and our flag looks lonely and forgotten. Fewer people seem to care about it. Some even protest against it or burn it, which makes those of us who remember its importance really sad. These days, everyone talks about freedom using different flags. But it seems like our old flag, the one that actually represents the freedom of our whole country, gets lost in the mix. It's like it's no longer just about our country; it's about everything else. I wish our flag could be the one that everyone looks at again with pride. I hope it doesn’t just end up forgotten in a drawer somewhere. It would be great if we could all remember what it stood for—bringing us together as one nation. I hope we can find a way to make our flag mean something special to everyone again, just like it used to.

Social Media Wants Your Money

By Nick Kossovan The American way (read: capitalism's primary goal), which greatly influences the Canadian way, has always been about separating you from your money. I'd wager that within moments of the Internet becoming available to the public on April 30, 1993, many asked themselves, "How can I use this new medium to hawk stuff?" In 1997, SixDegrees launched the first online social networking site, marking the birth of social media. Almost immediately, Hucksters, charlatans, snake oil merchants, and outright fraudsters tumbled out of the woodwork alongside corporate advertisers. Have you seen the online ad for the Bluetooth-enabled Shiatsu foot massager? How about the one for the organic mushroom supplement powder? How about the micro-magnetic slimming earrings? Initially, social media thrived on feel-good content. However, social media companies have bills to pay and profits to make; thus, understandably, monetization became their focus, resulting in social media being flooded with ads for cheap, bright, and shiny items. Today, you can't scroll through your feed without being inundated with ads promoting supplements, subscription services, or self-proclaimed "experts" teaching a craft they've never mastered. Remember the days of browsing the Internet and having to venture off to visit the seller's website? The creation of social commerce—the marriage of e-commerce with social media—eliminated the need to venture off. Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and TikTok now have native social commerce features baked into their respective platform. This feature, when leveraged by Svengali-like marketing strategies introducing you to products you didn't know existed, not surprisingly, leads to impulse purchases. Who knew there was an avocado slicer 3-in-1 tool for hassle-free avocado preparation for only $3.47? According to the ad, there are less than 400 left. At that price, it's a must-have. Never mind that I can't recall the last time I ate an avocado. As kitchen junk drawers, closets, garages, basements, and storage lockers will testify, creating fear of missing out (FOMO) by offering a cheap product and claiming inventory is dwindling is a proven marketing strategy. It's anyone's guess what percentage of our online and offline consumerism are impulse buys. Thanks to social commerce, a "marketer" can present you with a well-priced hoodie as you scroll through TikTok. To take advantage of this deal without overly interrupting your viewing of shuffle dance videos, simply click "Buy." I find it exhausting to scroll through my social media feeds, feeling that everyone is trying to sell me something. Social media has become cluttered with "Buy me!" and become an algorithmic traffic driver for targeted advertising. Then there's the fakery factor. · Despite all the claims, there's no "free." Everything has a price: time (attention) and/or money. · There's no genuine "I want to help you" advice, only pitches and sales funnels. · The freebies are shallow. A life improvement e-book offered for "free," in exchange for your email address, is just recycled advice you've already heard or read. There's nothing revolutionary or exclusive about the advice, as was promised. How many businesses behave on social media irritates me. Naively, I assumed social media would evolve into a people-to-people medium, like the whole world sharing one big kiss, as opposed to the business-to-consumer digital marketplace it has become. Weight loss programs, get-rich-quick schemes, influencers shilling products that don't produce results, Facebook friends selling beauty products, salons pushing Botox and fillers and ads that intentionally make asterisk text impossible to read. Companies that stretch the definition of "free," "guarantee," and "unlimited." Products designed to wear out quickly. Subscription-based models for everything. At some level, social media and the Internet thrive on veiled scams. My angelic side believes that those behind the transformation of social media into a Turkish bazaar simply want what we all want: money to buy time and freedom. Because our economic system works like a Ponzi scheme, everyone, to some degree, tries to make money, to move around with their consumerism, by taking advantage of others. In other words, who am I to judge those who sin differently than I do? When you consider how social media companies generate their revenue, it's hard to condemn their monetization efforts. Your role in social media isn't that of user. You're the product offered to advertisers and those who are dreaming of making money on social media. Platforms aggregate your attention (aka views), which they then sell to advertisers. It shouldn't come as a surprise that your attention span and actions are being commodified when you're on social media. In economics and finance, there's an adage that's especially relevant here: "There's no such thing as a free lunch." From an economic perspective, nothing is ever free. In general, if something appears to be free, like a social media account, you're paying for it in some tricky way. Always consider where your money is going. Consider your life goals more carefully. Don't let social media dictate your dreams. Sadly, social media has replaced the American dream of working hard and making money with the dream of not working hard and making money, resulting in our social media feeds being inundated with shameless attempts to separate us from our money. _____________________________________________________________________ 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

STICK & STONES

By Rosaldo Russo Allow me to begin this column by thanking the Oshawa/Central newspaper for allowing me the opportunity and access to the press. Not to many if any allow an average person like me to tell the world what I see and think. In my opinion. The Editor/Publisher is a real upstanding type of guy. He shoots from the hip and hold traditional core values. My name is Rosaldo Russo. I came to this great country to make a better life for myself and my family. I thank Canada for everything it has allowed me to do and earn. I worked construction all my life. I know the value of hard work and honesty. I remember as a boy my father always telling me to work hard and buy land. So I did. I remember days when I did not have enough to eat. I go to work... but I did not wait for hand outs. I rounded up my pride my skill and my determination to succeed and went to work. In those days the only benefits we received was the fact we were employed. Before retiring I was the owner and operator of local material supply company that allowed me to retired without worry. Now that I have time to enjoy life. I look around me and have some concern for future generations. I see that the world is finished. I was watching CNN and almost fell off my chair. CNN reported that in the U.S. university entrances were being blocked by Pro-Palestine supporters. I could not believe my eyes. Watching the video... Palestine students/supporters blocking Jewish students from entering libraries and study halls. I still can’t stop shaking my head. 1st and foremost. The Palestinian people/Hamas was the one that costed the first stone. Now, they are getting their ass handed to them and they dare cry victim. 2nd. The attack on the Israeli was not against military assets. It was against the average people. Killing and raping at will. Now, here in North America we have to listen to these savages cry victim. Release the dam hostages. No. I am sorry for the suffering of common people. But, enough is enough. We are not animals. We are not haters. These people have proven to have such hate for another human being that they have no problems killing at large. These demonstrators have no right to occupy shit in Canada or the U.S. They have no right to continue the same practices of open prejudice against another people. Come on people. Enough is enough. The Hamas movement is about hate. Using the Palestine people as shields... or worst... if we are to think on the dark side that all Palestinians support the practices of Hamas. We can’t tolerate such hate in Canada or the U.S. We have to stop these people at all cost before they pick up momentum. We go hard against white supremist. Why are we not going as hard against these savages that kill non-military, innocent civilians. This is wrong. This has to be stopped. In the U.S. case. Where is the campus security. Where is the police. INS Internal National Security. Round up the demonstrators and don’t arrest them... Send them back. Enough is enough.

WHY???

from Wayne & Tamara I met Sean a year and a half ago in a crowd of 50,000 people. We struck up a conversation and really hit it off. He gave me his number, which I forgot. I thought about tracking him down, but figured if it was meant to be we would meet again. Three weeks later I got a phone call from him, and we have been together ever since, until about a month ago. I left my friends and my life that I was used to. Everything was fantastic, we were in love, we thought we were going to get married. We just mentioned it a few times, but it wasn't really a topic of conversation. Anyway, something changed in Sean two months ago. He didn't cheat that I know of, but in a week's time he broke up with me, demoted himself from a high ranked position at his job, and became depressed. He went to the doctor and is doing better now, but I am confused. How can everything be so great and all of a sudden he changes his mind about everything in his life? He still likes to have sex and hang out with me sometimes, but doesn't have any interest in getting back together. I need to stop showing interest in him, I think, and get on with my life, but I am having a hard time doing this. Why is he acting this way, and is there any way we will be together again? Jessica Jessica, most people never find out the true why behind another's actions. Everyone wants the imaginary ‘closure,’ but the closure they want is to have what they want. That is why almost no one gets closure. As a psychological concept, closure doesn't work. When a relationship ends, people don't want to learn why, they want to learn why not. They want to fix it. But if a man used a woman for sex, how will learning the truth give her closure? If a woman never loved the man, how can that truth give him closure? You are not in a relationship with Sean, but he is having sex with you. He sounds like somebody with a plan for himself. Friendship sex is not in your best interest. You need to stop having sex with him and move on. Asking why only traps you. Wayne & Tamara Winnowing I am a female, 19. I am more mature than my age, and sometimes I feel I am trapped with an old soul in a young body. I fell in love with a man, 38. We were in a long-distance relationship for six months, but two months ago we decided I would move to New York to be with him and build my life there. We had a bad time. I couldn't find myself, and he was occupied with his business. I was very unhappy and we argued constantly. Now I am back in Israel, and he is there. He decided it would be easier for me to build my life here, and it would be good for us to take a break. He is afraid I might regret marrying him because I haven't experienced life yet. Is this kind of relationship possible, or am I holding on to something which is doomed from the start? Leah Leah, why do you need to mention age difference or other factors? When you were with him in New York, you were unhappy and argued constantly. Why can't that be the truth of the matter? You gave it a try, it didn't work, he pulled away. Every man is not your future husband. Most men you will date until you see the relationship isn't going anywhere. That's what dating is all about--not snaring a man, but separating the wheat from the chaff. He's chaff. You're looking for wheat. Keep sifting. Wayne & Tamara SEND LETTERS TO: Directanswers@WayneAndTamara.com Wayne & Tamara are the authors of Cheating in a Nutshell and The Young Woman’s Guide to Older Men—available from Amazon, Apple, and booksellers everywhere.

Large Bowel Cancer in Younger People on the Rise

By W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford New statistics published by the American Cancer Society should be alarming. The numbers point to an increase in colon malignancy in people in their 20s, 30s and 40s. Yet, there’s been a decrease in large bowel cancer among those over the age of 65. In people under 50, the rate has been increasing by about two percent a year since the 1990s. This data goes against a basic law. Most malignancies occur in older people, and this has been true of colon cancer. This new data sends up a red flag that should not go unnoticed. Moreover, this is not just a North American trend. Large bowel cancer is on the also rise around the world. The question is, why has this occurred. Colon cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related deaths for men under the age of 50. And it’s the second leading cause for women under 50 years of age. Large bowel cancer and rectal cancer are often linked together. And there is evidence that this increase may be related to an increase in rectal cancer. But it does not totally explain the increase. Do genes play a role in the earlier onset of malignancy? A family history of the problem is a factor for some people. For others, doctors have suspected that cell mutations may be the driving force. The presence of large precancerous polyps in the colon means a greater risk. But questions remain about why there is a rise in large bowel cancer among younger people. Could it be that changing lifestyles all over the world play a role? Despite talk of healthier diets, people are eating more red meat than ever – up over 10% in the last decade and more of it consumed after processing into convenient foods. People are eating other highly processed foods, downing too much sugar, and binge drinking alcohol. Researchers have shown that some individuals have good bacteria in their intestines, others bad bacteria. There are also questions about nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These pain killers may have an adverse effect on the gut. Clusters of malignancies are seen in some areas. In southern Mississippi, people living near chemical plants are exposed to trace elements such as nickel, arsenic, and chromium. Could these potentially toxic materials be associated with the increase in cancer? Researchers are also aware of another pandemic, and not a viral disease lasting just three years. It’s the much worse global crisis of obesity, a long-enduring pandemic. The increase in obesity mirrors the increase in malignancies. But not all patients with colon cancer are overweight. Experts contend there is no single smoking gun responsible for cancer. Multiple risk factors need to be addressed. What can people do to decrease the risk of dying from colon cancer? People need to assist their doctors with early diagnosis. First, never assume rectal bleeding is due to hemorrhoids. Second, colonoscopy is the only way to rule out malignancy. This requires laxatives that clean the bowel of fecal material. Then doctors insert a lighted instrument to examine the large bowel. This can be done under full anesthesia or with medication to relieve the minimal discomfort. Please, do not listen to scaremongers saying colonoscopy is a painful procedure. It’s better labelled a discomfort. Sedation-free procedures are safe, and people can return to normal activities right away. How many people with rectal bleeding have said, “No one is going to a colonoscopy on me,” and now are dead? Dying from a metastatic colon malignancy is many times more painful than the temporary discomfort of a colonoscopy. Don’t make this terrible mistake. Sign-up at www.docgiff.com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, contact-us@docgiff.com. Follow us Instagram @docgiff and @diana_gifford_jonesBy W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford New statistics published by the American Cancer Society should be alarming. The numbers point to an increase in colon malignancy in people in their 20s, 30s and 40s. Yet, there’s been a decrease in large bowel cancer among those over the age of 65. In people under 50, the rate has been increasing by about two percent a year since the 1990s. This data goes against a basic law. Most malignancies occur in older people, and this has been true of colon cancer. This new data sends up a red flag that should not go unnoticed. Moreover, this is not just a North American trend. Large bowel cancer is on the also rise around the world. The question is, why has this occurred. Colon cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related deaths for men under the age of 50. And it’s the second leading cause for women under 50 years of age. Large bowel cancer and rectal cancer are often linked together. And there is evidence that this increase may be related to an increase in rectal cancer. But it does not totally explain the increase. Do genes play a role in the earlier onset of malignancy? A family history of the problem is a factor for some people. For others, doctors have suspected that cell mutations may be the driving force. The presence of large precancerous polyps in the colon means a greater risk. But questions remain about why there is a rise in large bowel cancer among younger people. Could it be that changing lifestyles all over the world play a role? Despite talk of healthier diets, people are eating more red meat than ever – up over 10% in the last decade and more of it consumed after processing into convenient foods. People are eating other highly processed foods, downing too much sugar, and binge drinking alcohol. Researchers have shown that some individuals have good bacteria in their intestines, others bad bacteria. There are also questions about nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These pain killers may have an adverse effect on the gut. Clusters of malignancies are seen in some areas. In southern Mississippi, people living near chemical plants are exposed to trace elements such as nickel, arsenic, and chromium. Could these potentially toxic materials be associated with the increase in cancer? Researchers are also aware of another pandemic, and not a viral disease lasting just three years. It’s the much worse global crisis of obesity, a long-enduring pandemic. The increase in obesity mirrors the increase in malignancies. But not all patients with colon cancer are overweight. Experts contend there is no single smoking gun responsible for cancer. Multiple risk factors need to be addressed. What can people do to decrease the risk of dying from colon cancer? People need to assist their doctors with early diagnosis. First, never assume rectal bleeding is due to hemorrhoids. Second, colonoscopy is the only way to rule out malignancy. This requires laxatives that clean the bowel of fecal material. Then doctors insert a lighted instrument to examine the large bowel. This can be done under full anesthesia or with medication to relieve the minimal discomfort. Please, do not listen to scaremongers saying colonoscopy is a painful procedure. It’s better labelled a discomfort. Sedation-free procedures are safe, and people can return to normal activities right away. How many people with rectal bleeding have said, “No one is going to a colonoscopy on me,” and now are dead? Dying from a metastatic colon malignancy is many times more painful than the temporary discomfort of a colonoscopy. Don’t make this terrible mistake. Sign-up at www.docgiff.com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, contact-us@docgiff.com. Follow us Instagram @docgiff and @diana_gifford_jones

Mayor's Behavior Sparks Controversy and Concern in Pickering Community

By Lisa Robinson - Pickering City Councillor In recent months, the Pickering community has been rocked by a series of disturbing events surrounding Mayor Kevin Ashe's conduct, raising serious questions about his leadership, respect, and community values. Reports have surfaced detailing instances of the Mayor engaging in derogatory labeling, online bullying, and enabling other councilors to gang up on individuals, all of which have deeply troubled residents and stakeholders alike. The controversy began when multiple accounts emerged of Mayor Ashe using disparaging language to describe anyone who supports me, Councillor Lisa Robinson, or who opposes Mayor and Council’s narrative on controversial topics, from Pickering residents and the wider Durham region. Terms such as "nut cases," "conspiracy theorists”, “crazies" and "mentally challenged" were reportedly used by the Mayor, causing understandable outrage among those targeted and the broader community. Such derogatory remarks not only sow division but also undermine the principles of respect and inclusivity that are essential for fostering a healthy and harmonious community. Adding to the concern is the Mayor's purported advocacy for mental health, a stance that appears incongruent with his reported behavior. Advocating for mental health necessitates not only empathy and support, but also a commitment to combatting stigma and discrimination. By engaging in language that stigmatizes and belittles others, the Mayor not only fails to uphold these values but also undermines efforts to promote mental well-being within the community. Furthermore, reports have surfaced of the Mayor's involvement in online bullying, perpetuating a toxic environment that is antithetical to the spirit of constructive dialogue and mutual respect. In today's interconnected world, online platforms play a significant role in shaping public discourse, making it imperative for leaders to model respectful and responsible behavior. Telling constituents to go pour themselves another drink, or further labeling them as “transphobes” or “homophobes” for wanting their politicians of Pickering to remain neutral is beyond disturbing. The Mayor's alleged participation in this kind of online harassment not only sets a harmful example for residents, particularly young people, but also erodes trust in our local municipal government. Equally troubling are accounts suggesting that the Mayor has enabled other councilors to gang up on individuals, further exacerbating tensions within the community. Instead of fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and respected, such behavior fosters a culture of intimidation and exclusion, silencing dissenting voices and stifling meaningful debate. In a democratic society, the right to express differing opinions and hold elected officials accountable is sacrosanct, and any attempts to suppress this right must be met with firm condemnation. In addition to the troubling reports of Mayor Ashe’s behavior, recent actions taken by both him and the City Council have further fueled concerns about transparency and accountability within local governance. Changes to delegation times, reducing them from 10 minutes to 5 minutes, place undue restrictions on residents' ability to fully express their concerns and engage with elected officials. Furthermore, imposing stipulations on delegates from outside Pickering, even if they represent Pickering residents, makes it next to impossible to address council if you have an opposing view. This is a disservice to the principles of inclusivity and equal representation, or as I like to say a smack across the face of democracy. The elimination of question period and attendees' recording within the chamber, as well as the loss of the ability for citizens to bring non-agenda items forward, further diminishes transparency and public participation in local decision-making processes. These actions not only undermine the democratic rights of Pickering residents but also create barriers to meaningful civic engagement and accountability. In response to mounting public outcry, concerned residents and community leaders are calling for accountability and transparency from Mayor Kevin Ashe and the City Council. It is imperative that elected officials be held to the highest standards of conduct, and any breaches of these standards must be met with swift and appropriate consequences. Additionally, in my humble opinion steps must be taken to reverse the changes that limit public participation and transparency, ensuring that the voices of all residents are heard and valued in Pickering. This is another issue throughout my time in office that I have consistently advocated for. Improved public engagement across all aspects of municipal affairs. We are supposed to be serving the public, not the other way around. My voting history on these issues proves my dedication as the sole Pickering municipal politician advocating for democracy and impartiality for all. I would like to take this moment and extend my apologies for the behavior of the mayor and my colleagues, and to assure you that I will continue to champion the interests of Pickering residents and beyond to uphold the values of democracy. It's time to end this culture of bullying, intimidation and name calling, and instead prioritize listening to and valuing the opinions of all our community members. By doing so, we can foster a stronger, more cohesive community that we can all be proud of. "Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head-On And Rise Above It"

AUTOBAHN

By Rosaldo Russo Allow me to begin this column by thanking the Oshawa/Central newspaper for allowing me the opportunity and access to the press. Not to many if any allow an average person like me to tell the world what I see and think. In my opinion. The Editor/Publisher is a real upstanding type of guy. He shoots from the hip and hold traditional core values. My name is Rosaldo Russo. I came to this great country to make a better life for myself and my family. I thank Canada for everything it has allowed me to do and earn. I worked construction all my life. I know the value of hard work and honesty. I remember as a boy my father always telling me to work hard and buy land. So I did. I remember days when I did not have enough to eat. I go to work... but I did not wait for hand outs. I rounded up my pride my skill and my determination to succeed and went to work. In those days the only benefits we received was the fact we were employed. Before retiring I was the owner and operator of local material supply company that allowed me to retired without worry. Now that I have time to enjoy life. I look around me and have some concern for future generations. I see that the world is finished. Did you hear the latest? Gas prices at an all time high. Government is so good to us...that instead of lowering the gas prices so we can go further. Now, they opted to increase the speed limit on the death traps they call the 400 series highways. Come on people who is doing the thinking... Government thinks that by allowing us to go faster that we use less gas? Ok, stop laughing. But really, I am serious. In Germany on the Autobahn. On any given day. People pass you doing 200km/hr. No problema. German people have the common sense not to drive in the fast lane doing 60km/hr and giving the finger to anyone going 200km/hr. Maybe the Germans are the super race.... How safe is the autobahn? With cars zipping back and forth between lanes and overtaking each other at speeds of 200 kilometers an hour plus, the autobahn can seem intimidating to the uninitiated. But the lack of speed limit is actually justified on the grounds that it makes driving safer. Yes, I guess that if common sense prevails. Going faster may be safer... then again these same Germans never drove in gene pool we drive on the 401 for example. The Prince of New Delhi, that thinks he is still in downtown deli, not respecting the signs posted on the highway and using the emergency lane as his private reserved lane. Or the Asian that thinks he is doing Mach 1 on the fast all while doing 60km/hr not giving a dam about that 14 wheeler on his rear bumper.... Then let’s not forget the red-knecks driving the trucks at 200km/hr with a full load as if he was on the Autobahn. What ever happened to common sense. What happened to common courtesy. To respect. To realizing that the world does not revolve around you. The Autobahn works because of the people using it. The 400 series of highways in Canada are a death trap on any given day. Now, we are going to to an extra 10km/hr. Thanks Trudea.

Are the U.S. Presidential Candidates Too Old?

By W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford It’s a question on the minds of most Americans, and others too. Biden is 81 and Trump 77. Are they sufficiently health of body and mind to be President? Neither candidate has agreed to a comprehensive and transparent assessment of their mental health. But their state of mind is important, particularly now, when Putin is threatening the use of nuclear weapons. Are they both afraid of getting a D result? And what about being honest with the American public, knowing they face an exhausting campaign? At their ages, with a ton of luck, both have a life expectancy of around eight years. As for the chances of remaining healthy during that time, we would not bet on it. Biden walks with a stiffness now and it will increase with time. Trump faces a greater problem due to obesity. He is a walking model for cardiovascular disease, the big killer. How well do they sleep? We have little doubt that Biden sleeps better. He also appears to be happily married, and that’s a huge plus. If better rested, he will have more energy to deploy his political skills to the campaign. But does Trump ever sleep soundly? How can anyone believe he is happily married? He also must keep one eye on his many legal problems and other eye on his financial debts. Our bet is he tosses around in bed, a big negative for his overall health. What about the inner character and soul of these two candidates? We are grateful to have spent many years of study and work in the US and we have lifelong friends there. But we wonder why half the population adores (or puts up with) Trump who lies through his teeth, demeans women, tried to buy votes, and could not accept a fair defeat. We would suggest that Trump desperately needs a psychiatrist, and we have questions about half the population of this great democracy too. Could not another candidate be found? Dr. Rudolph Tanzi, a professor of neurology at the Harvard Medical School, says we need a neuropsychological examination of both Biden and Trump. This involves a series of 31 tests that can detect dementia and other brain dysfunction. It’s frightening what the figures show. Between the ages of 65 and 69, three percent of people have dementia. By age 90, it increases to a whopping 35 percent! The critical fact that we all, including presidents, have to accept is that getting older is very hazardous for the brain and all other parts of the body. But why do Biden and Trump want this top job at their advanced ages, a job that is so demanding day after day in light of domestic challenges and the Russo-Ukrainian and Israel-Hamas wars? Of course, being President of the greatest country is the obvious answer. Moreover, a ton of privileges go with the task. What will voters and the press have to accept? They must realize that Biden and Trump will continue to make elderly gaffes during interviews and speeches. Other age-related problems need to be anticipated. Trumps family history must also cause some concern. His father suffered from Alzheimer’s disease in his mid 80s. According to the experts, Trumps chances of this disease increase by about 39 per cent. And both candidates must be extremely wary of falling. From 65 to 84, it’s the second leading cause of injury-related deaths. How will this end? We believe there will be a medical tragedy due to their ages. We hope both of them choose healthy and extremely wise vice-presidents. Sign-up at www.docgiff.com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, contact-us@docgiff.com. Follow us Instagram @docgiff and @diana_gifford_jones

Excuse me I am Canadian

By Dale Jodoin As Canadians, we pride ourselves on being fair, polite, and reasonable. But there comes a point where even the most patient among us can't stay silent anymore. We're beyond fed up with the mess our Prime Minister has made, and the so-called "unbiased" news that keeps covering for him is just adding fuel to the fire. Let's talk about the trucker protest, for starters. Regular Canadians from all walks of life—different races, religions, and backgrounds—came together to stand up against government policies they didn't agree with. What was their reward? Our Prime Minister immediately branded them as racists and extremists. He even went as far as to claim they were getting money from some of the worst hate groups out there. And like clockwork, the news media lapped it up and spit it back out, painting these hardworking Canadians as villains on national TV. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. When people started to question where all the taxpayer money that's been sent overseas was going, the government's response was to shout "racism" from the rooftops. They say we're against freedom because we want accountability for billions of dollars? That’s not just misleading; it’s downright insulting. We have every right to demand transparency about where our money is going, especially when it's going abroad with no clear plan or payback. And when the news finally started reporting on foreign interference in our elections—something incredibly serious—the Prime Minister dismissed those concerns by attacking the character of anyone who dared bring it up. First, he labeled them as racists or homophobic, and then tried to bury the whole thing under a mountain of secrecy. But when documents surfaced proving he knew about the interference all along, he simply shrugged and denied everything. We've had enough of the lies and the sneaky tactics. The Prime Minister is supposed to unite the country, not divide it with false accusations and political games. He's supposed to lead by example, not by manipulation. Our schools aren't immune to this mess either. Public education is pushing political ideologies, teaching kids that communism is something to aspire to. They’re not learning to think critically; they're being taught to conform. Parents are right to be worried. Our children should be getting a balanced education, not being indoctrinated with radical ideas under the guise of progressivism. And let's not forget how all this political drama is hitting us where it hurts the most: our wallets. Housing prices are through the roof, gas prices are a nightmare, and despite our country's efforts to be carbon neutral, we're still getting hammered with carbon taxes. These taxes are supposed to help the environment, but all they're doing is draining our bank accounts and hurting businesses. The young people of this country, the ones who are supposed to be the future, are turning their backs on this Prime Minister. They're tired of empty promises and high costs of living. They want change, and they want it now. When the next election rolls around, don’t be surprised if the Prime Minister tries to play the same old cards, calling anyone who opposes him a racist or extremist. But we know the truth. We’re not extremists. We’re average Canadians, stuck in the middle of a political mess, just looking for fair treatment and a government that actually listens. It's time for a new government. One that will go after the real problems, like the indoctrination in our schools and the unchecked spending. We need a leader who will sit down with provincial heads and tackle our issues head-on, not one who spends his time defending his poor decisions and dividing the nation. We want a country where everyone, young and old, can afford a home and live without financial fear. A country where immigration is managed fairly and education is unbiased. Most importantly, we want a country where no group is set above another, where all Canadians can enjoy a peaceful life. Our patience has run out. It’s time to stop the name-calling, stop the lies, and start fixing what’s been broken. It’s time to kick the real troublemakers out of office and bring in leaders who will restore the fairness and respect Canada is known for. We deserve better, and we’re going to fight for it at the voting booth. Call us what you want, but we believe in a fair Canada, a peaceful Canada, for all.

WAKE UP PICKERING YOUR CITY COUNCIL Has Been Slowly REMOVING YOUR RIGHTS

For those of you who are not aware of how things work in the city let me explain. City Council(s) are responsible for the management and administration of their city resources. This means that anything that affects the city, taxes, parks, buildings, development, planning, permits, guidelines, by-laws, parking, committees etc. in the City of Pickering is either, or has been, approved or rejected by your City Council. . A Council that is made up of seven (7) people, three (3) City Councillors, three (3) Regional Councillors and (1) Mayor. Note - the current Pickering council, now in their 2nd year, is made up of 4 councillors having up to 30 plus yrs each on council (Hmmm … the old boys club survives) - 3 first time councilors (women, seems like 2 are being mentored by the old boys club?) HMMM … WHAT HAS YOUR PICKERING COUNCIL DONE THIS PAST 1.5 YEARS? April 22, 2024, Councillor Pickles brought a non-agenda URGENT motion 2nd by Councillor Nagy - non Pickering residents can not delegate (speak) at public meetings unless they are Pickering tax payer (e.g. business owner). - and delegates can only speak to matters on the agenda. Motion Passed with a 5-to-1 Vote Hmmm “not on the agenda”… the agenda comes out the Friday prior to the Monday meeting so does this means that you, the residents, the people of Pickering, who voted these 5 in, will no longer be able to speak on, or bring up any of your concerns by submitting a delegation at least 10 days prior to a council meeting? Hmmm … seems another step to silence Pickering Residents doesn’t it? Councillor Pickles said his motion was necessary to ensure safety & because too many non-resident delegations took away from Pickering residents to delegate and too many seats in chambers. Hmmm … With over 20 years on council, Councillor Pickles should know that there is no limit to the number of delegations allowed and rarely has chambers been too full to accommodate Pickering residents should they want to attend. For example this April 22, 2024 council meeting had approximately 10 residents or less, in attendance. March 25, 2024, The Mayor upon opening the meeting, quickly changed the agenda to bring item 12.2 to be the first debated and voted on. This item/topic was in reference to removing the “Open Question Period”. To explain, June 2023 council meeting passed allowing an Open Question Period in the city council meetings, allowing those in attendance to ask questions regarding the items on the agenda, good idea. Apparently it wasn’t being used. Hmmm … I wonder Why? It seems that the city failed to tell the residents they could speak during the Open Question Period to any item on the agenda, without a delegation, instead residents were told if they wanted to speak to the agenda, remember it comes out Friday, they would have to make a delegation prior to noon on Monday. The motion to remove the Open Question Period Passed with a 6-to-1 Vote. Residents are wondering what’s happening in Council Meetings these past several months. Residents rarely attended meeting and only hear gossip, or hear negatives on social media. Remember the agenda comes out Friday prior to the Monday council meeting, which follows two other meetings that Councillors have to attend. Residents see the agenda but not the mounds of paper involved regarding the items on the agenda. Councillors have the weekend, less any personal or city commitments, to review and be informed on the topics for discussion. People wonder Why, why do so many of the items pass with a 6-to-1 vote. Could it be that one Councillor Lisa Robinson, actually takes her duty to the Pickering residents seriously and reviews everything, thereby having many questions and doesn’t just rubber stamp things based on staff recommendations? Councillor Lisa Robinson stands strong for the residents in spite of how the Mayor and fellow Councillors treat her, ousting her, name calling, bullying, pay docking etc. NOTE - Pickles urgent motion; Council didn’t want Robinson or Residents to know Pickering Residents it’s time you support Councillor Lisa Robinson who Fights for YOUR RIGHTS, BEFORE YOU HAVE NONE

Canada’s recent immigration policy and the unforeseen effects

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East In its well-meaning effort to encourage immigration, the Trudeau government showed bad timing by increasing the immigration numbers at a time when Canada is confronted with an unprecedented housing crisis, issues in the health care system and a downturn in the economy. The Liberals have nearly doubled the number of permanent residents being admitted to this country, from 260,400 in 2014, to a projected 500,000 next year. Canada is now bringing in more immigrants than at any other time in its history. Last year, a record-breaking 431,645 permanent residents entered Canada, an influx almost exactly equivalent to the entire metro population of Halifax. This level of immigration is even higher than seen in the brief period before the First World War when Canada was frantically hustling in steamships full of Eastern European immigrants to settle the prairies. Today, however, there does not seem to be any plan on the part of the government or plan from the opposition to create new settlements in order to develop Canada’s resources. These totals are also well beyond the totals of another country historically big on immigration, the United States. On a per capita basis, Canada is now bringing in four times more immigrants than the Americans. And, Ottawa is looking to push it higher still. By 2025, Canada is set to receive up to 500,000 newcomers per year. In just the next three years, Canada is planning to bring in enough new Canadians (1.45 million) to equal the entire population of Manitoba. While Canadians have not abandoned their national love of immigration, there are clear signs that people are nervous about the tempo, amid crunches in the health system, housing and other infrastructure. As a result, broad public support for immigration, the cornerstone of multicultural Canada, is eroding. At the core of the problem we also have badly thought-out migration of international students to Canada. The flood of international students – there are now more than a million – who have been coming into Canada in recent years has created a huge problem, especially in housing. Many of these students get a sound education, land good jobs, and eventually become valued Canadian citizens. However, others show up at so-called puppy mills: pop-up private colleges noticeably lacking in academic rigour, without much in the way of classrooms or teachers. This clearly illustrates poor coordination between the Federal government responsible for immigration and the Provincial governments responsible for education. Both of them are putting political gains before the interests of Canadians. The Federal government ostensibly demonstrates its openness and responsiveness in taking measures to compensate for an aging work force by increasing the number of immigrants. However, their lack of vision and planning in pursuing this policy, demonstrates that they are only looking to increase their political base, not to build this country. At the same time, Provincial governments are relaxing education standards, claiming that they are showing openness and inclusivity for immigration. No immigrant comes to Canada to have their children get a watered down education, so this too, is a ploy for increasing political base rather than working for the good of the electorate. In fact, it does not matter which party is in power either federally or provincially. Immigration is seen primarily as a tool for political advantage, rather than a way to benefit the nation. Here we are then, with a major problem on our hands, as millions of newcomers compete with those already here, for a place to call home. The result is that Canada has the worst housing crisis in the G7. Government politicians are fighting with their respective opposition members, but apparently neither of them have real solutions for the problems they have created. The quick integration of newcomers into the Canadian way of life has many obstacles, which both the Federal and the Provincial governments have totally neglected to deal with. One of the main obstacles is the provincial system of regulating the professions through self-regulatory bodies. Unfortunately, these entities are out of touch with the times in which we live. They are primarily self-serving with no government over say in their activity. Legislatively they could have crucial input, but they prefer not to exercise it most of the time. These obstacles create a brake on the productivity of the country with most immigrants finding that their qualifications are not accepted, so they cannot work in their field of expertise. This is not good for either the immigrants or the country, especially now, when Canada is seeing a collapse in its productivity. One solution would be for the Federal government, which has jurisdiction to enter into international agreements, to work with the provinces to negotiate mutual recognition of degrees from foreign countries, and then eliminate this obstacle to accessing professions. The provinces should also have better input and overview on professional designations and practice, as they have a role in the professions acts and regulations, which they rarely exercise. I personally hope that Canada will continue to be a welcoming country for immigrants, but there is a dire need for politicians to work with Canadians in order to work out the right policy for immigration. What do you think?

The immigration colander

By Joe Ingino Editor/Publisher ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States “I live a dream in a nightmare world” Always Remember That The cosmic blueprint of your life was written in code across the sky at the moment you were born. Decode Your Life By Living It Without Regret or Sorrow. - ONE DAY AT A TIME - Allow me to disclose that I am an immigrant to this country. When, I came to this great country. I had standards to meet and I had a certain level of civility in order to qualify for a visa. I had to speak English, have and education, be clear of any medical infections or illnesses. I had to have a sponsor and the desire to integrate. Those were the days Canada had standards. Through my years, I strived to contribute. To educate myself to the point were I could offer other Canadians the same opportunities I worked so hard to earn. Today, it appears that Canadian Immigration policy has no standards. Canada has gone from a proud nation of it’s languages and heritages to stepping stone for foreign civil wars. A place that Canadians are forced to accept foreign culture, traditions and political interests. Canada has become a country of forced compliance. Foreign cultures demanding rights and priviledges that have not been earned but demanded as a human right. It appears that Canada has gone from air tight high standard immigration policy to a Tutti-Fruti Colander scooping from world civil wars, politically unstable regimes and just about anyone that cries refugee status gets in. What is that giving Canada? An Immigration policy that is being polutted with people with no education. Not even interested in learning our languages. In some cases ill and infectious. Criminals and political agetators. Political agitators with the only interest is to continue the cause back home from Canada. I say this is wrong. Then there is the visa for those that can pay. In some provinces if you can afford to run a business for two years. You are granted a visa. Many of these shell business opened never generate a dime or hire a soul. As long as they can register it and claim to be open for two years. Bingo. Or for the ultra rich. With a substantial investment they get to go ahead of the line. In most cases these are just as dangerous as the political/militant agitators that come under the guise of political refugees and ony interst is to use the resources of this country to continue the unrest back home. The wealthy visa seekers. Are buying land and property and then turning around and renting them out to only people from that nationlity for extortion rent rates. Is this our country. Let’s stop all Immigration. Let’s shut the door to refugees. Let’s tax heavy foreign investment and let’s cap the purchase of land for non-birth-Canadian. The Colander model is not working. It is hurting our country. It is changing all that was good in order to accommodate other cultures and tradition that have a proven fail record. Otherwise why are they in Canada?