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.)

A FEW THOUGHTS ON THE 2025 FEDERAL ELECTION RESULTS SHOW A TWO-PARTY RACE ONLY

A FEW THOUGHTS ON THE 2025 FEDERAL ELECTION RESULTS SHOW A TWO-PARTY RACE ONLY This week I have decided to offer my readers some insights as to the 2025 federal election results. My regular City Hall column will return next week. EARLY ON IN THE FEDERAL ELECTION I attended the campaign launch for one of only two Green Party members of parliament, and the event was truly unforgettable. With well over 400 people in attendance and standing room only, various speakers described their vision of a country very much different than the one we know today. As a political observer, I haven’t seen a better organized and colourful campaign event in decades. The crowd cheered as well over $50,000 was raised through a sort of ‘donation rally’ conducted by their co-leader Elizabeth May, a genuinely hard-working person and one whom I enjoyed chatting with afterwards. Fast forward to last Monday’s election night and the scene in that same space, according to the next day’s newspaper, was one of disbelief as supporters slowly watched the Conservative candidate take the lead and eventually win the riding. As it happens, the district is also represented by a member of the provincial Green Party, and therein lies the great mystery of politics, that being how to capture the mood of the electorate at any one time. Nevertheless, the losing candidate was thoughtful as he offered his supporters these closing remarks, “I’m glad to have had the opportunity to do this work. I’m not sure how to describe that feeling when people put their lives on the line because they believe in the things we’re pushing for and the way we’re pushing for them.” As it happens, the only Green member of Canada’s next parliament will be Elizabeth May herself. In the process of recovery from such a defeat, a period of political reorganization will inevitably take place, and this involves acknowledging the loss and finding ways to regain a sense of purpose. To that end, it must be said the Green Party no longer exists. I suggested in a previous column that, given the chance, I would offer up a story to every eligible voter, one that I would find necessary in the telling. They would be made to understand the realities associated with casting, what I may reasonably describe as a ‘protest vote’. The cross-country turnout for this election reached 67% overall, and in most electoral districts, Conservative and Liberal candidates captured the majority of votes, while Greens, New Democrats, and Independents trailed as distant contenders. NATIONAL POLITICAL PARTY RESULTS: Liberals won in 168 ridings with 8,566,674 votes, or 43.7% Conservatives won in 144 ridings with 8,089,959 votes, or 41.3% The NDP won in 7 ridings with 1,237,541 votes, or 6.3% The Green Party won in 1 riding with 244,992 votes, or 1.3% The People's Party of Canada won no ridings with 141,187 votes, or 0.7% QUEBEC AND INDEPENDENT RESULTS The Bloc Québécois won in 23 ridings with 1,233,231 votes, or 6.3% Independent candidates won no ridings with 36,319 votes, or 0.2% Any Canadian who believes greater things might be obtained by casting a vote for one of the smaller parties or an independent candidate will be overlooking the stinging reality that comes from a conscious decision to stay out of high-level decision making. The national results clearly demonstrate that fact. LOCAL RESULTS In Oshawa riding, the results are as follows: CONSERVATIVE Rhonda Kirkland elected with 32,185 votes, or 48.4% LIBERAL Isaac Ransom 2ND with 28,453 votes, or 42.8% NDP Sara Labelle 3rd with 5,112 votes, or 7.7% GREEN Katherine Mathewson 4th with 804 votes, or 1.2% It is interesting to note the NDP loss in Oshawa riding, as their provincial candidate won with 46% of the vote only two months earlier. There again one can see the difficulty in assessing the mood of the electorate at any one time. VOLUNTEER FOR A LOCAL ELECTION CAMPAIGN I encourage anyone with an interest in politics or a desire to help make their community a better place to step up and join a local campaign as a volunteer. The bulk of my own experience goes back a number of years, however on a cold day in early March I received a knock at my door from someone looking for signatures as part of her nomination package. That moment gave rise to six weeks of active participation on my part in what would become a successful campaign. The team of volunteers I worked with developed a certain fellowship during that time, as we canvassed door-to-door and by telephone, assembled and distributed signs, and gathered together each week for a meal at the campaign office. It must be said that not every moment during the election was easy as a volunteer, and there will always be personality differences among people thrown together in such a short time. On the flipside, one does get to meet a great many people in the community and the conversations are often quite enjoyable, even among supporters of another political party. THE FUTURE OF CANADA Over the course of the last 10 years, our country has changed, and not for the better. Inflation and the cost of housing have caused many Canadians to lose hope for the future. For the first time in generations, young people will have a lower standard of living than their parents, and that is unacceptable. Too many are now unable to buy their first home, and big-government programs haven’t actually added to our housing stock, but rather have succeeded only in enlarging a federal bureaucracy. Canada’s national debt has risen from $600 billion in 2015 to well over a trillion dollars, and Canadians are currently paying over $50 billion every year in debt servicing charges, something that is not sustainable. In fact, the costs to service the debt are more than our federal government spends every year on healthcare. The world in which we live is certainly more unstable now than in decades past, and the need to increase our military capabilities is paramount. Canada will eventually have to deal with new threats in the Arctic, so it makes sense to put more resources into ship building and into our Navy, with Canadian manufacturers and technology. Lastly, on the issue of carbon taxes, this columnist’s view is that the entire so-called ‘climate change’ narrative is false, and that the only real purpose of such an agenda is to see global wealth-redistribution on a massive scale. Canada’s carbon tax was recently suspended during the election under the guise of having been ‘cancelled’ and in my view, Canadians from coast to coast deserve a rebate of the taxes that were paid for no rational purpose whatsoever. Only time will show whether we can climb out of the mess we find ourselves in after 10 very dark years.

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!

What Difference Will You Make to an Employer?

What Difference Will You Make to an Employer? By Nick Kossovan It’s common knowledge that companies don't hire the most qualified candidates. Employers hire the person they believe will deliver the best value in exchange for their payroll cost. Since most job seekers know the above, I'm surprised that so few mention their Employee Value Proposition (EVP). Most job seekers list their education, skills, and experience without substantiating them and expect employers to determine whether they can benefit their company; hence, most resumes and LinkedIn profiles are just a list of opinions—borderline platitudes—that are meaningless and, therefore, have no value. Job seekers need to better explain, along with providing evidence, how they'll contribute to an employer's success. Employers don't hire opinions (read: talk is cheap); they hire results. You're not offering anything tangible when you claim: · I'm a great communicator. · I'm detail oriented. · I'm a team player. Tangible: · "At Global Dynamics, I held quarterly town hall meetings with my 22 sales reps, highlighting our accomplishments, identifying opportunity areas, and recognizing outstanding performers." · "For eight years, I managed Vandelay Industries IT department, overseeing a staff of 18 and a 12-million-dollar budget while coordinating cross-specialty projects. My strong attention to detail is why I never exceeded budget." · "While working at Cyberdyne Systems, I was part of the customer service team, consisting of nine of us, striving to improve our response time. Through collaboration and sharing of best practices, we reduced our average response time from 48 to 12 business hours, resulting in a 35% improvement in customer feedback ratings." These examples of tangible answers provide employers with what they most want to hear from candidates but rarely do; what value the candidate will bring to the company. Typically, job seekers present their skills, experience, and unsubstantiated opinions and expect recruiters and employers to figure out their value, which is a lazy practice. Getting hired isn't based on "I have an MBA in Marketing and Sales," "I've been a web designer for over 15 years," "I'm young, beautiful and energetic," blah, blah, blah. Likewise, being rejected isn't based on "I'm overqualified," "I'm too old," "I don't have enough education," blah, blah, blah. Getting hired depends entirely on showing employers that you can add value and substance to their company; that you'll serve a purpose. When you articulate a solid value offer, the "blah, blah, blah" doesn't matter. Job seekers focus too much on the "blah, blah, blah," and when not hired, they say, "It's not me, it's..." The biggest mistake I see job seekers make is focusing on the "blah, blah, blah"—their experience and education—believing this is what interests employers. Hiring managers are more interested in whether you can solve the problems the position exists to solve than in your education and experience. Not impressive: Education Impressive: A track record of achieving tangible results. You aren't who you say you are; you are what you do. If you want to be somebody who works hard, you have to actually work hard. If you want to be somebody who goes to the gym, you actually have to go to the gym. If you want to be a good friend, spouse, or colleague, you have to actually be a good friend, spouse, or colleague. Actions build reputations, not words. The biggest challenge job seekers face today is differentiating themselves. To stand out and be memorable, don't be like most job seekers, someone who's all talk and no action. Any recruiter or hiring manager will tell you that the job market is heavily populated with job seekers who talk themselves up, talk a "good game" about everything they can "supposedly" do, drop names, etc., but have nothing to show for it. More than ever, employers want to hear candidates offer a value proposition summarizing what value they bring. If you're looking for a low-hanging fruit method to differentiate yourself, do what job seekers hardly ever do and make a hard-to-ignore value proposition. 1. Increase sales: "Based on my experience managing Regina and Saskatoon for PharmaKorp, I'm confident that I can increase BioGen's sales by no less than 25% in Winnipeg and the surrounding area by the end of 2025." 2. Reduce cost: "During my 12 years as Taco Town's head of purchasing, I renegotiated contracts with key suppliers, resulting in 15% cost savings, saving the company over $450,000 annually. I know I can do the same for The Pasta House." 3. Increase customer satisfaction: "During my time at Globex Corporation, I established a systematic feedback mechanism that enabled customers to share their experiences. This led to targeted improvements, increasing our Net Promoter Score by 15 points. I can increase Dunder Mifflin's net promoter score." 4. Save time: "As Zap Delivery's dispatcher, I implemented advanced routing software that analyzed traffic patterns, reducing average delivery times by 20%. My implementation of this software at Froggy's Delivery can reduce your delivery times by at least 20%, if not more." If you want to achieve job search success as soon as possible, structure your job search with a single thread that's evident and consistent throughout your résumé, LinkedIn profile, cover letters and especially during interviews; clearly convey what difference you'll make to 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

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.

VOTERS HAVE MUCH TO CONSIDER IN THE 2025 ELECTION CASTING A PROTEST VOTE IS A WASTE OF TIME

VOTERS HAVE MUCH TO CONSIDER IN THE 2025 ELECTION **CASTING A PROTEST VOTE IS A WASTE OF TIME** By Dean Hickey This week I have decided to offer my readers some insights as to the federal election that will be decided on Monday April 28th. My regular City Hall column will return next week. THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE FEDERAL ELECTION OF 2025 will certainly be well remembered by all those who take an interest in the political matters of our country. In most neighbourhoods throughout Durham Region, residents have witnessed the coming and going of volunteers at their doorstep – some offering up a series of political talking points, and others more inclined to speak from the heart. All of which, upon the whole, may well be considered as relevant to the future of the country and of individual communities such as Oshawa. Given the chance, I would offer up a story to every eligible voter, one that I would find necessary in the telling. They would be made to understand the realities associated with casting, what I may reasonably describe as, a ‘protest vote’. Many large urban centres are known to be free-thinkers and to often rail against the established order of things, however, the result is an entire community literally removing itself from the corridors of power. Parliamentary representation, whether it be at the federal or provincial level, means more than an elected representative’s constituency staff answering inquiries on matters that involve various forms of financial assistance and other social programs. It should be the strongest object of everyone in the community to have a place at the table where real decisions are made on matters of national and international importance. A lone voice shouting objections on purely ideological grounds may offer some satisfaction to disgruntled voters, but it keeps, at a distance, that part of the political body which renders us safe and ultimately prosperous. As a result, voters may find themselves somewhat marginalized. To take the matter even further, it becomes unusually bizarre when constituencies such as Ontario’s Kitchener Centre and British Columbia’s Saanich-Gulf Islands see themselves best represented by a political party that exists in name only. I am, or course, referring to the Green Party which currently holds two seats in a country comprised of 343 federal districts. The number one question in all of this may be seen to focus entirely on what is truly best for the community in an age of tariff threats, global volatility in matters of war, economic uncertainty at home, and the need to participate in a truly meaningful way. Oshawa residents will choose their next MP from a list of only four candidates, three of whom represent Canada’s main political parties, being the Conservatives, Liberals, and New Democrats. Also on the ballot will be a candidate from the Green Party, which as I have indicated, exists in name only. Any Canadian who believes greater things might be obtained by casting a vote for one of the smaller parties in this election will overlook the stinging reality that comes from a conscious decision to stay out of high-level decision making. They will fail to see the extent to which strength through association and success by way of intelligent decisions are the basis for maintaining the security and prosperity of our community. We must be careful when considering our position among Canada’s Parliamentary decision makers. THE IMMINENT COLLAPSE OF THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY appears to be in full swing. Nationally, the NDP are in a very challenging place. Some polls have them in single digits in voter approval, with much of their support bleeding to the Liberals under their new leader. One polling expert has said their leader, Jagmeet Singh, might well lose his own seat in the BC riding of Burnaby South. The populist, left of centre message of the New Democratic Party no longer appears to impress most Canadians. Many can recall the glory days that began in 1961 under then-leader Tommy Douglas who brought in publicly funded health care, which remains a defining moment in this nation’s history. Where there was once a forceful alliance with organized labour, there now remains only a fraction of the power and influence that used to exist, as most low wage workers tend not to have a union representing them. In fact, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 773, have endorsed Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre. Jagmeet Singh’s inseparable connection with the Trudeau Liberals remains, as he takes credit for expanded dental care, a pharmacare plan, and a $10-a-day child care program. However, his party was seen to evolve, gradually, into what may now be considered as nothing more than a progressive version of the Liberal party. The NDP has lost its core identity, and in the process, its relevance in this election. THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE DEBATE HELD ON APRIL 17TH was certainly an eye-opener for anyone who is even remotely in support of the Liberal leader, Mark Carney. He was truly awful, and I say that in a non-partisan way. He fumbled, paused, sounded insecure, kept his head bowed down a great deal, and was literally crushed by his opponents on practically every issue during the debate. The Conservative’s Pierre Poilievre was clearly focused and on message as he sought to portray Carney as an extension of the last nine years of Liberal rule, accusing him of “regurgitating” lines from Trudeau’s staffers who were in the studio. Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet was true to form, offering Carney a reality check as he destroyed many of the Liberal leader’s proposals, including an east-west energy grid that would conflict with Quebec’s already established energy programs. In my view, Canadians have an opportunity, and indeed a duty, to help bring this country out of what can only be described as a decade of darkness. The damage caused by 10 years of reckless and misguided Liberal Party rule is widespread, and the rebuilding must start now. Our very survival as a nation depends on it.

Inside Pickering’s City Hall Where Truth Is Silenced and Corruption Is Protected

Inside Pickering’s City Hall Where Truth Is Silenced and Corruption Is Protected By Councillor Lisa Robinson Democracy doesn’t die overnight. It dies slowly — through silence, coverups, and backroom politics. And in Pickering, it’s dying behind closed doors. Over the past year, I’ve brought forward numerous motions reflecting the concerns of everyday residents — motions about safety, fairness, fiscal responsibility, and respect for Canadian values. And nearly every single time, they were blocked, ignored, or buried. Not because the motions were wrong — but because they were inconvenient. This council doesn’t want uncomfortable questions. They want control. And they’re willing to rewrite the rules to keep it. Let me be clear: what’s happening inside Pickering’s City Hall is not democratic — it’s draconian. We’ve seen the bylaw amendments. The procedural games. The scripted meetings. The selective enforcement of rules designed to silence residents and dissenting councillors. Public comments are cut off. Delegations are shut down. Meetings are moved online without public input. And when people do speak up, they’re branded as “alt right”,“dangerous.” or they are character assassinated. This council — led by Mayor Kevin Ashe and backed by insiders like Brenner, Cook, Nagy, Pickles, and Butt — has used every tool at their disposal to suppress public voices and punish those who don’t fall in line. Meanwhile, city employees who mislead council or the public are protected, not reprimanded. Whistleblowers are ignored. Those who speak inconvenient truths are targeted. I’ve brought forward motions to: (Only to name a few) · Play the national anthem before council meetings · End corporate gifts and perks to councillors · Restrict sexually explicit performances from allowing minors · Ensure flags flown on public buildings represent all Canadians equally · Increase safety options in public changerooms · Pause development deals that lacked transparency · Require cameras to stay on during virtual meetings · Improve public consultation boundaries · Repeal the “climate emergency” declaration · Establish a department of government efficiency · Restore respect for Canadian tradition and neutral governance How many were refused a seconder? Too many to count. But Mayor Ashe himself has said it outright — it’s not the message, it’s “the messenger.” He stated he doesn’t want to hear from me. He’s biased, and he’s admitted it. And it shows — in the attacks, the games, and the complaints. Let’s talk about those complaints. Every single Integrity Commissioner complaint that’s gone forward against me has come from: · The Mayor · Members of Council · The Corporation of the City of Pickering · The CAO · Or even Mayor Ashe’s own family The only exception? A Facebook post — where three drinking buddies filed a complaint based on lies. What the public doesn’t know (yet) is that a sitting councillor was involved behind the scenes — encouraging it, fueling it, and waiting for the fallout. That’s not integrity. That’s political warfare. They know they can’t beat me with facts — so they hide behind procedure and weaponize process. They fear the truth I speak, because it shines a light on what they’ve built: a city hall run by insiders, for insiders. I’ve lost nine months of pay standing up for you. But I haven’t lost my voice — and I haven’t lost my resolve. I am Councillor Lisa Robinson — your People’s Councillor. I will keep standing, even when I’m standing alone. Because when they silence me, they’re trying to silence you. And I won’t let that happen. Not now. Not ever.

Municipal Failure Supreme Last One Out, Turn Off The Lights

Municipal Failure Supreme Last One Out, Turn Off The Lights By Joe Ingino B.A. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States On April 16, 1971, real-estate agents Bob McDonald and Jim Youngren put the words, "Will the last person leaving SEATTLE -- Turn out the lights" on a billboard at S 167th Street and Pacific Highway S near Sea-Tac International Airport. The two realtors, who work for Henry Broderick, Inc., put up the billboard as a humorous response to pessimism generated by the national aerospace industry's nosedive, known locally as the Boeing Bust. A Sign of the Times The recession came as The Boeing Company, the region's largest employer, went from a peak of 100,800 employees in 1967 to a low of 38,690 in April 1971. McDonald said their out-of-town clients "were amazed that Seattle wasn’t a ghost town with weeds growing in the streets. Sadly the comparison to Oshawa. We also have weed growing on our streets in the form of cannabis shops.... Everything else is closing or has closed. Have you been downtown Oshawa lately? Well, take a drive and see the similarities to the above... God forbid take a walk. Oshawa was once the jewel on the regions crown. We had power. We had standards. We had an exceptional quailty of life. Ever since Nancy Diamond, took out the fountain at Memorial Park. Life has slowly deteriorated to a notch above a war zone. I have been warning the City of GM move to pull out. No one listened. Scared, city officials failed to stop GM from slowly taking jobs other places and leaving us with an enviromental mess. Much like The Boeing model above. Oshawa has turned in to a zombie wonderland. Made up the homeless, drug addicts, drug dealers and some of the worlds uglies prostitutes. I blame the Mayor for doing nothing but waste your tax dollars to the tune of 2 million dollars on a private para-military security company that gets him a personal bodyguard. Your Money. He likes to fill his mouth that Oshawa is resilent... The only resilient thing about him is his neglect for Oshwa and to work with people. The two downtown councillors. Complete disgrace. In the two terms they served 10yrs. Oshawa downtown has become a war zone. Yet, they push for a new downtown mini park. In my opinion. Rick Kerr and Derek Giberson should do the honorable thing and resign. Convenience stores are closing, restaurants... It appears that the only shops opening are vaping shops and cannabis. The mayor talks about supporting local small businesees. He does not. But in their defense. Kerr, has no real business experience. Giberson a third rate wonna be musician never really had a solid job other than that of being elected. We can’t expect more. But we can expect for them to resign... before the last one of us has to turn off the lights on Oshawa, due to municipal incompetence.