WHERE IS THE INTEGRITY COMMISSIONER?

By Lisa Robinson - Pickering City Councillor This week I received this email. I am appalled at what is going on in our City. As your representative I vow to make things right and bring back dignity, respect and accountability. Please have a read: The Pickering Council Controversy: Undermining Democracy, Public Feedback, and Engaging in Bullying Introduction The City of Pickering’s council has recently been thrust into the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Controversies surrounding the conduct of its members, including the mayor, have brought to light issues that undermine democratic principles, stifle public feedback, and foster an environment of discrimination and bullying. This article aims to unpack the detailed findings of a report that reveals the systemic problems within the council, highlighting the importance of open debate, respectful conduct, and transparent governance. The Importance of Debate in Democracy Debate is the lifeblood of democracy. It ensures that diverse viewpoints are considered and that decisions reflect the collective will of the people. Robust debate in municipal councils is essential as it allows for the thorough examination of policies, encourages transparency, and holds elected officials accountable. More importantly, it provides a platform for council members to represent their constituents’ interests effectively. In Pickering, however, this democratic ideal seems to be under threat. The council’s recent behavior shows a disturbing trend of shutting down dissenting voices and dismissing legitimate concerns, leading to a toxic and unproductive political environment. Council Conduct: A Case Study in Inappropriate Behavior Numerous reports highlight instances of bullying, inappropriate behavior, and unprofessionalism within the Pickering council. The mayor’s conduct has been particularly troubling, with instances of name-calling and derogatory remarks directed at both council members and the public. Example 1: During a council meeting, the mayor referred to Councilor Robinson’s supporters as “nut cases.” This unprofessional language not only disrespects differing viewpoints but also undermines the decorum expected of public officials. Example 2: The mayor has a history of inflammatory comments, calling individuals “Nazi supporters” and “conspiracy theorists,” both during public forums and on social media. Such behavior polarizes the community and stifles constructive dialogue. Example 3: Councilor Lisa Robinson has faced repeated interruptions and unjustified reprimands from the mayor whenever she attempts to discuss critical issues like the World Economic Forum (WEF) or smart cities, hindering her ability to represent her constituents effectively. Inappropriate Social Media Conduct The mayor’s use of social media as a platform to belittle and insult critics further exacerbates the toxic political climate in Pickering. Instance 1: On multiple occasions, the mayor has posted derogatory comments about Councilor Robinson, implying her motions were not worth considering. This public shaming undermines her credibility and deters other council members from voicing dissenting opinions. Instance 2: In response to a constituent’s criticism, the mayor told them to “go have another drink,” insinuating they were drunk. Such responses are dismissive and unprofessional, discouraging public engagement. Instance 3: Labeling critics as “conspiracy theorists” and “Nazi supporters” on social media not only dismisses their concerns but also creates a hostile environment for anyone who disagrees with the mayor’s views. Discrimination and Bullying: Targeting Councilors The treatment of Councilor Lisa Robinson exemplifies the discriminatory and bullying behavior within the council. Her motions, which aimed to promote neutrality and inclusivity, were met with unwarranted backlash and accusations of transphobia and homophobia. Motion 1: Robinson proposed a motion to prohibit the flying of non-governmental flags on city flagpoles, intending to maintain governmental neutrality. Despite not targeting any specific group, she was accused of transphobia and homophobia. Motion 2: A motion to ensure inclusive washroom policies was twisted to portray Robinson as transphobic, despite her clear intent to offer more options and inclusivity. Motion 3: Robinson’s motion to impose an age restriction on certain events, such as Pride and drag queen story time, was met with severe backlash and led to the council suspending her pay for three months, a punitive measure that disproportionately affected her as a single mother. Financial Hardship and Community Support The council’s decision to suspend Robinson’s pay left her in a precarious financial situation. Community members had to pool resources to help her cover basic expenses, underscoring the severity of the council’s punitive actions and the lack of internal support she received. Trespass Orders: Silencing Dissent The council has also used trespass orders as a tool to silence dissent and control public participation. Incident 1: A resident was issued a trespass order for refusing to stop talking during a meeting. This response was disproportionate and highlights the council’s intolerance for dissenting voices. Incident 2: A videographer was trespassed after his equipment was damaged by members of the LGBT community. Instead of addressing the perpetrators, the council targeted the videographer, silencing his efforts to document and share council proceedings. Integrity Commissioner Complaints: Bias and Selective Enforcement Over 27 reports have been filed against various council members, yet only two complaints against Councilor Robinson have been addressed. This selective enforcement raises serious questions about the Integrity Commissioner’s impartiality and effectiveness. Psychological Harassment: A Toxic Environment Psychological harassment, including exclusion, public humiliation, and gaslighting, is pervasive within the Pickering council. Example 1: Robinson’s photo was deliberately cropped out of official event pictures, marginalizing her and diminishing her presence within the council. Example 2: Public meetings and social media platforms are used to humiliate and demean Robinson, further stifling her ability to represent her constituents. Example 3: Gaslighting tactics, such as dismissing her complaints and twisting her intentions, undermine her credibility and confidence. Undermining Public Debate and Feedback The council has made several procedural changes that limit public participation and transparency. New bylaws restrict non-Pickering residents from speaking on agenda items and limit the ability of residents to introduce new topics for discussion. Exacerbating Problems: Shutting Down Debate and Bullying Instead of addressing concerns through open debate, the council has shut down dissenting voices and bullied those who speak out. This approach alienates a significant portion of the community, fostering resentment and distrust. "Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head-On And Rise Above It"

The Role of Municipal Government:

By Maurice Brenner Regional Councillor Ward 1 Pickering Reflecting back 200 Years- Pickering/Durham Region Recently I accepted an invitation to speak to a High School Class on the history and role of Municipal Government (Local Government) and what better way to gather my content, I turned to “Google”. What I found was a journey into the history of Pickering/Durham and the role that those early settlers played to change history. A Citizen Revolt: In the mid-1800s, The Crown(England) appointed members of conservative local elites (Tories) who monopolized political power in settler colonies. These Colonies were situated in Upper and Lower Canada (present-day Ontario and Quebec) Initially political reformers led primarily by professionals (lawyers, journalists, and doctors) attempted to change the system through peaceful, constitutional means. When this failed, and with growing frustrations, a group referred to as the “Rebels” embarked in an armed rebellion in 1837/1838. Many of the leaders of these armed rebels lived in what we today refer to as Pickering and Durham. While the British Government forces were able to crush the uprisings, 1,500 people were arrested, 250 deported and 50 hung. One of the most known leaders of the rebels was Peter Mathews, a farmer who moved to Pickering Township in 1799. Mathews served along side Isaac Brock in the militia during the War of 1812. In 1837 with the British imposing their power on the settlers, Mathews became active in the Political Union movement hoping to pressure the British Government to grant reforms. When this failed Mathews lead a group from Pickering as part of the William Lyon Mackenzie upraising. As the battle unfolded Mathews and his group of 60 men from Pickering, took part in the Rebellion of 1837. It was a short battle that cost Mathews his life. He pleaded guilty of “Treason” hoping for mercy but was sentenced to hang, making the Pickering settler an example. Today in the small Hamlet of Brougham a short distance from the Mathews farm, a Heritage Plaque was erected recognizing the important role Mathews played and died for, fighting for Local Government and Local Decision making. Creation of Local Government and the Municipal Act: With the Rebellion over following the hanging of Mathews ,in 1838, the British government sent Lord Durham (Who Durham Region has been named after) to investigate the causes of the rebellions and to recommend reforms to prevent a similar up rising from re-occurring. Today we would call this a Public Inquiry. Acting on the Lord Durham Report, in 1841, the “District Councils Act was past creating Municipal Government in Ontario. This Act in 1849 gave birth to one of the first acts of the newly formed Government of Ontario, the creation of “local self government” the Municipal Act of 1849 which provided for the incorporation of local Municipalities. By1868, Ontario had local representation, 36 counties, 399 townships and 104 cities, towns and villages. All with duly elected leaders from a cross section of what we refer today as communities, to govern and make inclusive decisions with-in its legislated mandate. Flash Forward 2024: What has changed? While Municipalities were created out of an uprising of rebels from Pickering resulting in self governance, the role of Municipalities and their elected leaders continues to be threatened. Communities, Local leaders, and Councils alike are frustrated at being treated like children and told what is best for us. But Centuries later, it is not by the British Government of the 1800s but by the same body that was created through Confederation to protect self governance, the Provincial Government of Ontario. We as Municipal politicians are told we are the children of the Province. Through amendments of the Municipal Act and various pieces of Legislation, under protest boundaries have been realigned, forced amalgamations have been imposed. We have have been threaten of elimination if we do not co-operate. We have been stripped of important decision making in Planning, and now the introduction of Strong Mayor Powers. As Councillors we feel disrespected with our ability to govern as elected officials eroded. So ask your selves what has changed in 200 years. To be clear, I am not promoting civil unrest nor a rebellion. As Communities and as Municipal Councils by working together, we do have the power of the pen and the ability to pass resolutions for positive change. By working in partnership with communities, we can make a difference the same as a modern day Peter Mathews would through grass route local decision making something that should never be compromised.

Words... I LoveYou!!!

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 - What is it about words... that make communication so difficult. They say that we are the supreme being due to our ability to use language and communicate. Our ability to discuss and rationalize things through. Then again you look around and you wonder sometimes if some of us are not better not being able to communicate. I say this with such liberty as words interpretation and usage in many cases are highly dependable on emotion, context and content. Take for example the word ‘LOVE’. Love entices a particular emotion that can be communicated in various ways as it can be interpreted. Then if we have such issues with such a simple word. Imagine the composition of a series of words. Or the interpretation of words like “Democracy”. Just about every individual has a notion of the word. A personal interpretation and an emotional trigger for the use of such word....Much like ‘LOVE’. People will fight tooth and nail on Democracy but they are truly meaning Civil Rights or Human Rights. Freedom of speech and so on. In part this is why world peace may never be achieved. Language is a tool and a weapon. Language is rooted in culture, customs and traditions. Therefore, to purely express intent, direction and or interest. The many fundamental in the rooted language makes it impossible to reach an accord. Even within the same language an accord may not be reached and the message is debated with inadequate communication. I remember my days at the University, taking a fourth year linguistics course. I remember the professor taking each student a side and asking. Do you really want to take this course? I answered him with the obvious, YES. He looked at me and said, “This is not about languages. This is about communicating. In this class your life will change for ever. Are you sure you want to be here? He stirred my interest and I replied. “YES”. He then told me that when humans communicate. Only 40% of what is said. Is actually what was intended to be communicated. I asked what happened to the other 60%? He said “ask me that at the end of the course.” I will never forget that professor. He truly changed my life. His course helped me with this newspaper. My adult life as an editor is to get in people’s minds. Some call it propaganda. Others call it sublime interference. Either way. As a communications expert. Your primary job is to get people to do what they would normally not do. All while maintaining integrity and utilizing the journalistic tool box. I sometimes sit back and smile as life is not what we think it is. It is a never ending journey of interpretation, understanding and learning. I love democracy...or do I? Who is this democracy?

D-Day anniversary 2024

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East nIn Canada today, we are at war with high inflation, uncertain economic times and international tension due to the continuing war in Ukraine and the Middle East. We therefore need to remember as never before, and reflect on the sacrifices that our ancestors have made for us. They should not have fought in vain to secure our freedom, to keep democracy alive in our country and the comfortable standard of living that we have enjoyed for generations. It is time to cherish their memory and learn from their patriotism. We need to ensure that their efforts to win over the evils of fascism were not in vain. Particularly during this new dark period that threatens our very existence, we need to keep up our courage and stand up against our adversaries as our ancestors have done. We need to stay strong in the face of today’s unprecedented challenges. We are currently facing a crucial time in our history in fighting the evil of an unknown upcoming new world order and related societal malaises. In combination, the consequences of the past pandemic and social dysfunction are similar to fighting a new kind of world war with worldwide consequences and yet unforeseen effects on Canadians. On 6 June we are marking the eightieth anniversary of D-Day, the beginning of the Battle of Normandy, along a 100 km stretch of French coastline across the English Channel from Great Britain. This was the largest seaborne invasion in history and a crucial day in winning the war against evil; Nazi Germany. The assault on the beaches of Normandy by British, American, and Canadian troops on the 6th of June 1944, who would then fight their way across Western Europe, has gone down in history as a memorable event. The codenames of where the troops landed — Omaha and Utah for the Americans, Gold and Sword for the British, and Juno for the Canadians — remain familiar today. The Normandy landings, Operation Overlord, marked the beginning of the end of six long years of conflict between Adolf Hitler’s Nazi Germany and the Allied forces. The development of the role for Canada in the D-Day invasion has a history going back a few years. Following the Dunkirk evacuation Canadians began to come over to Great Britain. They were well-prepared and took on the role of defending the British Isles. They built up around the south coast of England and operated in a defensive and anti-invasion role from May 1940 to July 1943. At that time the 1st Canadian Division was detached and sent to Italy, but the bulk of Canadian forces remained in Britain for all those years. Canadian sailors, soldiers and airmen played a critical role in the Allied invasion of Normandy, beginning the bloody campaign to liberate Western Europe from Nazi occupation. Nearly 150,000 Allied troops landed or parachuted into the invasion area on D-Day, including 14,000 Canadians at Juno Beach. The Royal Canadian Navy contributed 110 ships and 10,000 sailors and the RCAF contributed 15 fighter and fighter-bomber squadrons to the assault. Total Allied casualties on D-Day reached more than 10,000. By the end of the Battle of Normandy, the Allies had suffered 209,000 casualties, including more than 18,700 Canadians. Over 5,000 Canadian soldiers died. From the D-Day landings on the 6th of June 1944 through to the encirclement of the German army at Falaise on the 21st of August this was one of the pivotal events of the Second World War and the scene of some of Canada's greatest feats of arms. Juno Beach was the Allied code name for a 10 km stretch of French coast. It fell to more than 14,000 volunteer soldiers from across Canada, under Major-General Rod Keller, commander of the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division, to storm the Juno Beach coast line. They seized the beach and its seaside villages while under intense fire from German defenders — an extraordinary example of military skill, reinforced by countless acts of personal courage. The 3rd Infantry Division took heavy casualties in its first wave of attack but took control of the beach by the end of the day. There were 1,074 Canadian casualties, including 359 killed. All things considered, the Canadian troops did very well on D-Day. The Canadians and the British in the Gold and Juno sector made it farther inland than any of the other invasion forces. They had managed to link up their forward units some distance inland, which was a measure of success. At the end of the day, the Queen’s Own Rifles had actually captured its objective, which was short of the overall divisional objective but goes to show that some of the Canadian units were quite successful in the first hours. Their sacrifices will not be forgotten even though their generation is starting to fade into the fog of history. For the time being D-Day still seems to be in the Canadian public’s consciousness. Their memory must be preserved for the millennials and generations to come in order to eliminate the causes of further conflagrations. D-Day embodied the courage and determination to prevail in that war. It was fought over issues that are still alive today — such as ideology, globalism and injustice. It was an exceptionally difficult and hazardous military operation. It was an operation in which Canadians took a major central role in the war to preserve freedom and democracy. For these reasons and more, it’s important to keep the memory of D-Day alive. The dead, along with scores of other Canadians killed in the fighting during the weeks that followed, are buried in the serene and beautiful Canadian War Cemetery at Bény-sur-Mer, just behind Juno Beach. This, and numerous other memorials throughout Courseulles, Bernières and St. Aubin-sur-Mer, commemorate Canada’s sacrifice on D-Day. A private museum, the Juno Beach Centre, overlooking the beach at Courseulles, also tells the story of Canada’s role in the invasion of Normandy. Every year on the 6th of June, the people of the villages along Juno Beach pay tribute to the men and women who fought and died there. They parade through streets festooned with maple leaf flags and hold services and vigils along parts of the seawall, in memory of their Canadian liberators. Long live their memory! Long live the courage those men and women demonstrated. May our current generations and governments show just as much courage in our current hour of need. We can’t afford to wait for someone else to fight for our rights and freedom. We must all take a stand against the tyranny of incompetent leadership, political correctness at the expense of merit, and the stripping away of our individual freedoms in the name of political expediency. Wake up Canada! Have we forgotten; what are we waiting for?

The Paradox of Being Fat and Starving: A Modern Dilemma

By Dale Jodoin In today's world, particularly in countries like Canada, the United States, and Great Britain, we are witnessing a paradoxical situation: people are both fat and starving. This might sound contradictory, but let me explain how this scenario has come to be. Historical Context: The Great Depression Back in the Great Depression, men and women were struggling to find food. They were skinnier and fitter because they had limited access to food. The available food was mostly real, unprocessed food. Vegetables were readily available, and people ate what they grew. This trend continued up until the 1970s, with diets consisting of fresh vegetables, regular dishes, and meats. Then something changed in the late 70s. The Rise of Processed Foods Around this time, food manufacturers discovered how to make chemicals taste like fruits and vegetables. They also figured out how to add high fructose corn syrup to increase addiction to these foods. Today, processed meats have more sodium, fat, and sugars than ever before. Even fruits, which used to be a healthy choice, have been bred to contain more sugar, increasing their addictive potential. Consider this: we have cleaning products that contain real lemon juice, but the lemon drinks we consume have artificial flavors and colors instead of real lemon. This discrepancy illustrates the shift from real, nutritious food to artificial, chemically enhanced products. The Cost of Eating Healthy The price of vegetables today is often by the pound, not by the head or by quantity as it used to be. A nutritious meal can cost $15 to $20, while a meal high in fats and sugars costs around $12. This price difference makes it difficult for many to afford healthy meals. The food industry prioritizes profit over health. Processed foods are cheaper to produce and more profitable, leading to an increase in their availability and consumption. This is why people in Canada, the United States, and Great Britain are struggling to afford nutritious food, contributing to the rise in obesity despite high levels of food insecurity. The Struggle with Weight and Health Many believe that simply exercising more and eating less will solve the problem. However, the issue is more complex. When people can't afford nutritious food, they turn to cheaper, unhealthy options. This not only leads to weight gain but also contributes to other health issues like diabetes and high blood pressure. The Impact of Stress It's important to understand that stress plays a significant role in this problem. People who are overweight often face stress related to their finances and food choices. They worry that every meal might be their last decent one for a while. This stress can exacerbate the problem, making it harder to maintain a healthy weight. Misguided Solutions and Public Perception Some people advocate for higher taxes on junk food and restaurant meals to discourage their consumption. However, this approach is misguided. It's not just about making unhealthy food more expensive; it's about making healthy food more accessible and affordable. Doctors often tell overweight individuals to eat less and exercise more. While well-intentioned, this advice fails to consider the complex socio-economic factors at play. Overweight individuals have likely tried various diets and exercise regimes without success, leading to frustration and despair. Food Addiction and Societal Attitudes Junk food is addictive, designed to be consumed in large quantities. People who can't afford "good" food are forced to consume addictive, unhealthy options. Food banks often provide canned goods and cereals, which, while helpful, are not the most nutritious choices. The government and food industry need to re-evaluate food processing standards to reduce harmful additives. Until this happens, we will continue to see an increase in obesity and related health issues. A Call for Compassion and Understanding When you encounter someone who is overweight, remember that they might be struggling with more than just their weight. They could be dealing with financial stress, food insecurity, and health issues. Instead of judgment, offer support and compassion. We don't have all the answers to this complex problem. But what we can do is show love and respect to those facing these challenges. Recognize that they have likely tried everything to lose weight and improve their health. The term "fat shaming" is not helpful; it only adds to the stress and shame they already feel. the issue of being fat and starving is a modern dilemma rooted in economic, social, and health factors. The food industry prioritizes profit over health, leading to the prevalence of addictive, unhealthy food. The cost of nutritious food is prohibitive for many, contributing to widespread obesity despite food insecurity. We need to approach this issue with compassion and understanding, recognizing the complex challenges faced by those who are overweight. Only by addressing the root causes and making healthy food more accessible can we hope to resolve this paradox and improve public health.

Don't Approach 'What You're Worth' From a Sense of Entitlement

By Nick Kossovan More than ever, job seekers, with a sense of entitlement, are hyper-focusing on getting paid what they're worth. Job seekers seldom consider, let alone quantify, the value of their work, which determines their worth. Hence, a candidate's or position's worth is calculable and, therefore, isn't as subjective as is often assumed. INTERVIEWER: "What salary are you looking for?" JOB SEEKER: "$75,000 per year." INTERVIEWER: "What warrants you getting $75,000?" (The interviewer wants the candidate to quantify their value to justify a salary of $75,000.) Job seekers tend to calculate their worth based on their experience, skills, education, work history, and living expenses. The job seeker's sense of entitlement—"I deserve a high income because life is expensive."—blurs the distinction between how they perceive their worth and the value of their work. Employers care little about your experience, skills, education, or financial needs. Their primary interest is in the results you can produce, which determines your value and, subsequently, how much you're worth paying. Few job seekers quantify the impact they can have, if hired, on an employer's business. Most job seekers don't include quantifiable numbers (read: results achieved) on their resumes or LinkedIn profiles, which would encourage employers to want to meet them. Conversely, job seekers are comfortable conjuring up compensation figures based on what they feel entitled to. Several years ago, I worked for a financial services company. One Friday afternoon, I met a colleague in the cafeteria. All week, he'd been interviewing candidates for a workforce manager position. I asked how the interviews had gone. As he opened his can of Dr Pepper, he sighed. "My last interview, as well as several throughout the week... let's just say we didn't create their lifestyle, yet they feel we should be responsible for it. I was constantly bombarded with questions asking about our benefits and compensation package. Of the eight candidates I interviewed, only two focused on what they could offer rather than what we could offer them." Employers didn't create your lifestyle, so why do you expect them to support it? A company's success depends on profitability and efficiency, which means keeping expenses in check. For most companies, payroll is the biggest expense; therefore, every employee needs to pull their weight by delivering an ROI that justifies their salary, as well as answering the question: How does [employee] help the company reduce costs or increase revenue? Companies don't hire the most qualified candidates. They hire the candidates they believe will deliver the most value; hence, as a job seeker, instead of focusing on your qualifications, focus on the value you're able to offer an employer. Once, an interviewer asked me, "What salary are you looking for, and what will the company get in return?" I was impressed that my interviewer asked me what they were thinking without sugarcoating it. I now include this question in my interview questions. Several times, I've agreed to pay a candidate's salary request based on their answer. Your competition, many of whom are younger, hungrier, and equally qualified as you, also plays a significant role in determining your worth. Additionally, easy access to overseas labour, robotics, self-serve technology, artificial intelligence, freelancers, and third-party vendors are influencers on the fundamental determinant of wages: supply and demand. The law of demand in labour markets works like this: An increase in wages or salaries reduces the demand for labour. Conversely, a lower salary or wage increases the demand for labour. Ironically, higher wages increase supply because more people want to work for a higher wage, resulting in a more competitive job market. This is why highly sought-after jobs—jobs with a reputable and stable company that pays well and provides good benefits—are more challenging to land than a job with, for example, a small family business. Despite all the "legalities" quasi-imposed on employers, employers hire candidates at their discretion. Employers owe you and me nothing. A job seeker's goal is to get hired based on their own merits and, therefore, solely responsible for proving to an employer how they'll add value (measurable results) to their company. A job seeker who presents a cost-benefit analysis business case—hiring is a business transaction—explaining the value the employer would gain by hiring them will set them apart from their competition. Being given a job isn't an absolute right; it's an earned privilege. (Before getting into the debate over "privileges," remember you, like everyone else, have earned and unearned privileges.) I'd never argue that any one person is worth more than another. My contention is that the value of an employee's work, and therefore its worth, varies, sometimes significantly, between employees. There's no denying that employees who go the extra mile, produce above the minimum expectations, positively influence their colleagues and are team players add more value to their employer than those who do the minimum. (aka, quiet quitting) Only after you've established what measurable value you can bring to an employer can you begin discussing your compensation. Job hunting isn't the place for any sense of entitlement; you must demonstrate your value to an employer—prove your worth. _____________________________________________________________________ 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

$127,000 DOWNTOWN ART

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 pay and paid my share of taxes. Even though hefty. I always was in thought that the money was going towards a good cause. Year after year passes and it appears that the quality of life in Oshawa keeps deteriorating. Look at the downtown. Homeless people sleeping in door ways. Drugs and guns widely available. Businesses closing... do we have council representation? Who are these characters that see people suffering and they do nothing. But wait. The release by the city this week below... states that in someone's warped mind. We the people of Oshawa should waste $145,000 dollars on some artwork. Like really. Who is doing the thinking here. PEOPLE... PEOPLE ARE SLEEPING ON THE STREET. The release read: The City of Oshawa invites residents and business owners to a public art Open House at the Arts Resource Centre. During the Open House, community members will have the opportunity to learn more about and provide input on a new public artwork that is being commissioned for the Downtown Oshawa Urban Square. (URBAN SQUARE!!! ARE YOU KIDDING ME). The Urban Square and its artwork reflect the City’s commitment and desire to connect and engage with the community, as well as transform the spaces where we live, work, learn and play into vibrant, inviting and meaningful public spaces. (ARE THEY ON DRUGS... CONNECT AND ENGAGE!!! ARE WE ALL TALKING ABOUT THE SAME DOWNTOWN.... PEOPLE ARE SLEEPING ON THE STREET...)This project marks the City’s first independent sculpture commission, signifying a significant step toward enhancing the creative fabric of the downtown. The budget for the artwork, including artist fees, engineering, materials and installation is $145,000. Are you kidding me.... Rick Kerr and Derek Giberson, City downtown councillor should resign in shame. You know what you can do with $145,000 to help the homeless and the many downtown people suffering. No, instead these two idiots want to create a ‘urban square’. That is like putting lip-stick on a pig. It is easy for the two idiots to waste our tax dollar.... and you wonder why then they turn around and keep raising our taxes. BAD DECISIONS BY INCOMPETENTS

Unpleasant Truths

from Wayne & Tamara My in-laws have continually treated me as a second-class person with respect to my husband, their son. My husband and I both have PhDs., and we both are on the faculty at a research university. He is older, but I am a professor with a career and a purpose, also. I work full-time, cook every meal, clean our home, and I take impeccable care of myself because my husband deserves a fit, happy wife. Still, from his parents, I am not as worthy as their son. I receive Christmas cards addressed to Dr. and Mrs. instead of Drs, and when I speak about a topic on which I am an authority, they pretend not to hear me. They wait and ask the same information of my husband, who they immediately believe. If the conversation is not about how wonderful their son is, they have nothing to say. I am happy to brag on my spouse all day long, but the inequity of treatment hurts after seven years of marriage. As a result, when I see them, I am angry and resentful, overly loud and dogmatic, because I feel stepped on and undervalued. I am constantly mistaken on campus for a secretary (I am very young), and I handle that diplomatically and pleasantly, but these people know better. Gabrielle Gabrielle, when we are young, we learn where babies come from. This knowledge is called "the facts of life." As we grow older, we learn other facts of life, and sometimes these facts are unpleasant. The unpleasant fact you are facing is your in-laws' attitude. He is their son, and you are nothing to them. If you have children, they will be his children and their grandchildren. That is their attitude. You want a reasoned, kind way of changing their attitude, but you have been trying for years with no success. Why not accept your in-laws and recognize them for who they are? Each Christmas card is not a slap at you, it is simply mamma writing to her son. You don't have the ability to change who they are by your desire. Wayne & Tamara Self-Portrait I love my fiancé with all my heart and spirit, but I am receiving mixed signals from my future mother-in-law. First, I want to say I never planned on marriage, and I don't want children because I am selfish. I will not be a good little housewife and cater to my man's every need, but I will love him the best and only way I know how. My fiancé tells me his parents only want what will make us happy, and they want to see me at their house every week or two. But when my man is not around, his mother says things like, "You should give up being an artist and do nursing for the benefits." Or she says, "I was a housewife and will soon retire. I need someone else to cook big dinners for the holidays." She got me to stay for Easter, though I told them I did not want to. I even helped her cook dinner because she gave me this look that made me shrink inside. Now I don't want to hurt her, but I need to let her know who I am. What should I do? Caroline Caroline, for some reason good people have gotten it into their heads that they are not allowed to say the word ‘no.’ When you let your fiancé's mother have her way, you are lying to her about who you are. When you stand up to her, you are telling her the truth. Some people will balk and say you should give in to your future mother-in-law, but you cannot sustain that for the next 25 years. You are who you are, and when you let false politeness dictate your actions, you diminish who you are. 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.

Meeting Trump JR

By Lisa Robinson - Pickering City Councillor The other day, I attended an event where I came face to face with none other than Donald Trump Jr. Yes, Trump's right-hand man. He seemed like just another man, yet he had style and poise. His charismatic attitude resembled that of John F. Kennedy—very relaxed and very sure of himself. A true Trump. As I stood before him, I understood why lesser men might resent him and look for fault and shame. He truly is a chip off the old block. I can understand why men like that are successful, yet persecuted and constantly attacked by envious and lesser types. Men like his father, who stand for what is right, not for what benefits them personally. Sure, Trump Sr. has his battle scars and has made mistakes, but these experiences make him a political powerhouse today. Trump knows the game; he knows how and where the loops are played. He is a renegade who does not play by the rules. Now in power, he exposes the corruption in democracy, the lies, and deceit—something that Democrats hate. I can understand the feeling of persecution by those who are supposed to be assisting and helping the betterment of all taxpayers. I am in no way near the level of play of either Trump Jr. or Trump Sr. These men lived lives of social privilege and saw corruption at work. As a first-time councillor, I am getting a bitter taste of the political game. I entered this profession with a clear and clean heart. I wanted to serve and achieve better for my community. I did not enter to just collect my pay, as some elected officials do. I did not seek office because I had no other employment offers. In today’s municipal government, many in it should resign. For them, the money is nothing but a pension fluff. For others, where else would they get paid for the job they are entrusted to do? They form groups of incompetence and denounce anyone actually working for the betterment of the general taxpayer. Look at our Mayor of Pickering. In my opinion, he constantly attacks me for speaking on behalf of you, the taxpayers of Pickering. My pay was cut for three months for speaking my mind, with no real chance to defend myself. Council meeting after council meeting, our Mayor has belittled me and called many of you names over public recordings. What makes this Mayor so insecure? Could it be because I am a woman? In his misogynist way, he has used every municipal resource to silence me, even passing by-laws on conduct that verge on violating Human Rights and Freedom of Speech. Who is this man that can verbally abuse a woman like this during a public meeting? I write a column or make an open statement and am not allowed to defend myself. I am then put before a biased ‘integrity commissioner’ who, in my opinion, has no integrity. Councillors should also have no right to remove another member's salary for representing constituents with dissenting voices. The ability to speak freely and represent all viewpoints is a cornerstone of democratic governance. Removing a councillor's salary as a punitive measure undermines this principle, effectively silencing dissent and discouraging the representation of minority or unpopular opinions. This kind of punitive action can create a chilling effect, where councillors fear advocating for their constituents if those views do not align with the majority. I wish Trump Jr. would come to Pickering and give a two-minute speech on democracy and what it takes to be a good political icon. What am I saying? The Mayor would do as he has done in the past with important delegations: snub his nose and instruct staff to shelf it. Look at what is happening with the way the City sends out information. They pass one by-law after another to avoid doing business with this newspaper. Why? The newspaper has been serving all of Durham for the past 29 years. Metroland closed, and the only in-print newspaper is this one. Why has the city not jumped all over this opportunity? You guessed it. Because, like other newspapers, The Central makes the opportunity of writing in the paper available to all elected officials. Since I take advantage of this generous offer to the community, The Central is blackballed. Instead, the City has chosen to publish online. This is a huge mistake, as it is proving to be a failure. Many in the City of Pickering do not use online resources or visit our overly complicated web page. People want to have the news delivered to them, in their hands, to read when they want. I wonder what Trump would think of blackballing people. I am sure he would say something like, “If you think you are on the right track, don’t let anyone derail you.” "Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head-On And Rise Above It"

TORONTO LEGALIZE HARD DRUGS? JUSTINTRUDEAU WANTS TO LEGALIZE HARD DRUGS, DO YOU ?

TORONTO MAYOR CHOW - wants to Legalizing Hard Drugs in Toronto Premier Doug Ford - Is so Against Trudeau on Legalizing Hard Drugs Where Does the NDP Stand? Will They Back Trudeau & Mayor Chow ? ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Jan. 31, 2023, B.C. became the first Canadian province to legalize hard drugs Life Saver or Failure ??? ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The British Columbia government pledged that legalizing hard drugs would help save lives. One year into the three-year pilot project to decriminalize possession of 2.5 grams or less of heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine and MDMA, B.C.’s toxic drug deaths have reached record levels with an average of seven people a day dying in 2023. (reported by the Vancouver Sun) It’s prompted B.C. United and B.C. Conservative MLAs to call for decriminalization to be scrapped, citing waning public support, frustration with rampant drug use in parks and public spaces, and an about-face from Oregon three years into their trial. “We’ve had three years of this law that has not delivered on the promise that voters thought they were getting,” Washington County district attorney Kevin Barton told CBS News. Overdose deaths in Oregon have continued to rise since 2020. However, a Hmmm ….. Where’s the Common Sense? Parents everywhere know that if a child gets ill by eating a certain food they can’t fix the illness by giving the child more of that same food. Likewise giving drugs to people who have drug problems does not cure their problem. In both these situations help is needed to teach the user how to live without the illness causing food or drugs. Hmmm … It seems our politicians have no common sense. • October 17, 2018 Justin Trudeau legalized cannabis (also known as weed, pot, mj or marijuana), he said it would save children Did it or did it just make more kids, who wouldn’t normally think of trying it, try it and get hooked on it • Now in 2024 Toronto’s Mayor Olivia Chow requests for an even broader exemption than B.C. had, that would apply even to teenagers and asks Trudeau to support her bid to Legalize hard drugs. DON’T BE PART OF THE SILENT MAJORITY THAT WAKES UP ONLY TO FIND IT’S TOO LATE. ~ AS THE SONG SAYS “CHILDREN ARE OUR FUTURE” MAKE SURE THEY HAVE ONE ~ It’s Time, Write your MP, say enough is enough. To find your MP just ask the internet, enter Find my MP, a screen will come up enter your postal code and you’ll get all the contact info for your MP. Email Mayor Olivia Chow how you feel about legalized drugs ….. Mayor_chow@toronto.ca. STOP THE SILENCE ~ START THE CONVERSATION ~ SPEAK UP FOR WHAT IS RIGHT “OH CANADA, WE STAND ON GUARD FOR THEE”

Why you might be a “Right- Wing Extremist”?

Why you might be a “Right- Wing Extremist”? By Patricia Conlin Many people see that Canada has declined to say the very least. The standard of living has declined, affordability has declined and basic essential services are rapidly eroding under the woke policies of the Ottawa elites. Canada has lost respect internationally under Trudeau and the Liberal/NDP Coalition and harsh laws are being passed to limit free speech like Bill C-11 and Bill-63, The Online Harms Act under the guise of public safety. We see increases in crime, suicide, homelessness and despair in every community. But why? Most people think it is a coincidence or possibly just incompetence but how can any government be that incompetent? Truly something much more sinister is at play when all western nations are experiencing the exact same erosion of rights, freedoms and quality of life under the same draconian government policies. A few years ago, I was minding my own business with a successful consulting firm and a happy life. The rug was harshly pulled out from under my feet when I witnessed bold-face lies during Covid along with the decimation of small businesses under lockdowns (big globalist firms faced no such mandates). As a person of integrity, I could not stay silent and therefore, I was harshly punished. For the crime of simply speaking the truth, I was censored, deplatformed and then called the dreaded “right-wing extremist” slander. This was enough to have a number of my former friends (some of whom, I have known my whole life) quickly remove themselves from my life with no apology or explanation as they simply believed media propaganda. After being deplatformed, my business suffered greatly as well. But despite all the loss, I wouldn’t change anything and I wouldn’t go back in time and stay silent. For what is at play in the world is a coup by powerful globalists who are not interested in thriving economies and communities but rather controlling people and resources with a Digital ID, Pandemic Treaty, CBDC, Social Credit score, land capture and large tax increases to ensure society becomes increasingly demoralized and impoverished-all under the guise of “saving us” from the climate “crisis”. They want us to give up our rights (they have no intention of giving up theirs) and accept a much lower standard of living so they can implement their highly profitable “green agenda” which most of us now know is part of Agenda 2030. Add to that mix, a reckless addition of migrants (a large number seeking refugee status who have no intention of working in Canada) that is putting a massive burden on housing and healthcare and a mental health crisis partly fueled by increasingly radicalized education and policies. But none of those responsible for voting for all these harmful bills and policies say anything about the obvious decline in Canada. Instead, they point fingers at what they call “right-wing extremists” who bring up the obvious harm of the problems they caused. But what does “right-wing extremist” mean really. Given the broad label, most people I speak with would quality as one. Immigrants from India and the Middle East agree with me. Long-term Canadians, parents who see the declining levels of education agree with me. Retired veterans who can’t afford food agree with me. Even many young college and University students are starting to see the obvious and agree with me. Is it extreme to what housing for Canadians first instead of putting refugees in luxury hotels? Is it extreme to want promote peace in the world and return to being an international peacekeeping nation instead of sending funds to foreign countries to escalate conflicts? be supporting all Is it extreme to want Canada to grow economically with a local thriving manufacturing sector (other than EV cars and cricket plants)? Is it extreme to want to tap into our rich and ethically mined resource sector to create jobs and energy independence? Is it extreme to want to protect our farmland and farmers from taxes and control that will bankrupt them and destroy our food security? Is it extreme to question statements from corrupt government officials and media who are controlled by globalist companies that don’t care about Canada? When it comes to right wing, many people now see the deliberate slander behind the label. Mabe right-wing is closer to being on “right side of history”. It takes courage to speak out and tell the truth and nothing good comes from having the majority stay silent to what is growing increasing obvious to many. In many countries, the truth about the harmful Covid and Climate policies is coming to light because brave “right-wing extremists” are speaking out. If you agree with anything I have said here, you too might be considered a “right-wing extremist”!! Isn’t it time for decent citizens all over Canada to reject slanderous labels and instead hold our publicly elected officials accountable. That means showing up at Council meetings, sending letters to MPs and MPPs, speaking about uncomfortable subjects with neighbours and refusing to stay silent. When more people speak out and refuse to be silent by the ridiculous label “right-wing extremist”, we can unite in stopping the deliberately harmful policies from being implemented at a local level. The joy of being on the RIGHT side of history and standing up for Canada is worth it!!

1 billion reasons you voted wrong..

. 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 - Oshawa has tracked $1 billion in commercial, industrial and institutional development over the past five years, with major industrial companies bringing their global operations and thousands of new jobs. This was announced at the recent Economic Outlook Breakfast presented by the city’s Economic Development Services Branch with TD Commercial Banking and the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce. TD Deputy Chief Economist, Derek Burleton delivered the 20th annual economic forecast. But, still we the people of Oshawa face 8% tax hike? Maybe it is me. But someone explain this to me. The more the people is it not the more tax collected? If so, then one would think that the City of Oshawa should not have to hike taxes every year. Instead, they would at the least have a tax freeze. Maybe we should consult with the TD Deputy Chief Economist, Derek Burleton. He can possibly explain it to the Mayor and his merry men. Sure more people more resources needed to accommodate. But 5 billion!!! That is not an extra five hundred bucks. What benefit has the average taxpayer gained? More traffic, more crime. House values compromised. All this development and no planning. Who is going to pay for additional policing? Since DRPS is a regional service. But wait. The Region sits on 2 Billion surplus. Am I of such low intellect that I do not question tax hikes... Something is wrong with this picture. Can you spot Waldo? I can... and you keep electing them in. We have politicians that lack the intellectual capability to make multi million dollar decisions. So, the rely on staff. Staff that does not really give a dam other than to keep their job and every year ask for an increase. There is no explanation to the poor management of the city. The Mayor is the CEO. He should take the responsibility to improve the quality of life for all citizens. He should not depend on what staff tells him to do. He should be using staff to better the life of all citizens across Oshawa. This is why we have the homeless at a all time high. Drugs widely available downtown, prostitution run wild. Downtown business opening and closing right left and center. People, much like we require a doctor to have a medial license. Should we not require at the least 5 year business experience from either councilor Mayoral candidates. 5Billion and they dare tax increase of 8%. Shameful.

Canada and the Electrical Vehicle (EVs) adventure

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East I have written before about the largesse of the Ontario Provincial Government and the Federal Government in corporate welfare directed at Electric Battery and Electric Vehicle manufacturers, all of which are foreigner lead enterprises. Now it is interesting to analyze how misguided this approach is, spearheaded by politicians rather thn engineering professionals.Politicians may be great at wordsmitting legislation, but have no clue how to deal with essential infrastructure projects. They can spew verbiage non-stop, but essentially they are empty brainers when it comes to managing the future of this country. Considering the feasibility of the Federal Government’s plan under its Electric Vehicle Availability Standard to mandate that all vehicles sold by 2035 be zero-emission vehicles, we encounter a complete lack of vision. Moreover, it reveals a complete ignorance of the realities of this great country called Canada, which encompasses the second largest territory in the world. While the use of electric vehicles (EVs) offer environmental advantages over internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, concerns persist over cost, driving range, charging options, and carbon emissions during battery cell manufacturing, making mandated goals uncertain. Geopolitical and economic implications also arise from EV mandates in the US and Canada, particularly as they relate to the dominance of Chinese EV manufacturers. There are security risks associated with Chinese control of critical minerals essential for EV production, economic threats to the North American auto sector, and hurdles faced by local automakers in competing with their Chinese counterparts. The intensive use of aluminum in EVs manufacturing to lower overall weight and increase efficiency and driving range, also poses environmental concerns. Aluminum production is carbon-intensive, and increased usage raises an EV’s GHG emissions life cycle significantly, adding to an EV’s carbon footprint. In the event of a critical mineral shortage, prioritizing small battery packs for compact and midsize EVs could maximize GHG emissions reductions. However, automakers profit more from SUVs, and consumer preferences lean heavily towards SUVs. Thus, if automakers prioritize fewer of the larger battery packs that large electric SUVs use over many smaller battery packs, the expected reduction in GHG emissions may not materialize as forecast. There will also be potential disruptions in the market due to the prescriptive nature of the Electric Vehicle Availability Standard, which mandates that EVs comprise a specific minimum proportion of sales. If there is a misalignment among government, consumers, and auto dealers with these targets it could lead to elevated prices, vehicle shortages, and unmet consumer demands. Since EVs are relatively new to Canada, there is limited data on collision-related insurance claims, leading to uncertainty about future EV insurance costs. In the UK, for example, where EVs are more established, insurance rates in 2023 for EVs saw dramatic increases compared to conventional vehicles. Statistics also show that EV repair costs are higher than those for ICE vehicles. Maintenance and general repairs for EVs differ from those for conventional vehicles. Although electric drivetrains have fewer moving parts, potentially simplifying maintenance and repairs, EVs use sophisticated technologies that may raise repair costs. A large survey revealed that EVs encounter more problems than gas-powered vehicles, particularly with their electric motors, batteries, and charging systems, highlighting their complexities. EVs offer lower refuelling or charging costs compared to gas-powered vehicles. According to the federal government, driving a midsize car for 400 kilometres costs approximately $10 in electricity compared to $50 in gas. However, this comparison may not be entirely fair due to the significant government taxes included in gas prices that are absent from electricity prices. Assuming comparable taxes on electricity as on gas, the cost of the above recharging example could rise significantly from $10 to $25.62, still cheaper than gas, but less so than without the taxes. As of 2023, Canada had 26,500 public charging ports. Projections indicate that the country will need about 455,500 public ports by 2035. This requires adding about 98 new ports every day over 12 years. These estimates do not include private charging ports. Electrical utilities in Canada will face significant hurdles in ensuring that distribution grids can handle the substantial demand for EV charging capacity. Upgrading and expanding various grid components will be necessary, but the compressed timeframe imposed by the regulations raises uncertainty about timely completion. Overall, the government’s ambitious timeframe is unrealistic, risky, and potentially ineffective in achieving significant emissions reductions. Concerns also arise regarding threats to Canada’s auto sector, its nascent EV supply chain, and the substantial investments needed for charging infrastructure and grid enhancements. In addition, potentially higher EV ownership costs would disproportionately affect lower- and middle-income individuals, with accelerated adoption timelines exacerbating these issues. Canada needs a more flexible approach to light-duty vehicle emissions reductions. This includes rescinding the current mandated zero-emission vehicle sales minimums and replacing them with increasingly stringent GHG emission standards. Such a change would enable automakers to adjust their vehicle portfolios to market needs while still meeting emission reduction goals. Furthermore, Canada’s targeted standards and timelines should align more closely with industry efforts to source critical minerals and develop less costly, yet profitable EVs with superior operating characteristics. Beyond these concerns, more can be learned about this matter from the excellent analysis provided by Jerome Gessaroli, a Senior Fellow with the Macdonald Laurier Institute, In his article, “ A Bumpy road ahead – A critical assessment of Canada’s Electric Vehicle Availability Standard”, he raises important concerns.. For instance, did Ford, Trudeau and company have any contact with people who have deep knowledge in the EV field before recklessly spending taxpayers money on EV related investments and generous corporate welfare? We can now see the potential results of politically motivated action that lacks fundamental analysis and we can foresee the potential damage for the country due to ignorant politicians. In conclusion, we need to attract competent, thinking people to politics. People with expertise in various fields such as science, engineering and economics, who can ask the right questions and make reasonable decisions. Or do you think that the lawyers, political science graduates and staffers with no background in real life currently occupying elected positions are up to the task? Your opinion counts. Do what you can to express it.

A Candidate Being Overqualified is a Legitimate Concern

By Nick Kossovan A fundamental principle of humanity—innate freedom—is that everyone has a right to pursue their own self-interests, which inherently lends itself to liberal democracy and capitalism. In other words, you and I are free, within the boundaries of laws established by politicians who were voted in because voters believed they'd best serve their self-interests to make life choices we believe are in our best interests. You and I have the right to pursue our self-interests as long as our pursuits do not interfere with the interests of others. Ideally, harmony and easy-flowing relationships are established when self-interests support and complement each other. We also need to understand that if we want our self-interests respected, we need to respect the self-interests of others. Let's apply this fundamental principle of humanity to the job market. Employers have their self-interests, the obvious being to run and maintain their business profitably, and job seekers have their self-interests, the obvious being to have an income. Job seekers' self-interests often conflict with those of employers, whose self-interests trump theirs since they create the jobs (read: paycheques). Therefore, job seekers are always bubbling with emotion. Consider this: how often do you make a life choice that isn't driven by your self-interest? Reflecting on this provides valuable insights into the role of self-interest in our decision-making processes, as well as that of employers. As you choose what's in your best interests, employers choose what's in the best interests of their business. Job seekers like to point out all the supposed unfairness—touchpoints that don't serve their self-interest—they can find throughout an employer's hiring process, which the employer designed with their business's interests in mind. A common complaint among job seekers is not being hired because they are supposedly "overqualified." When the hiring process is viewed from the employer's right to pursue their self-interests, you understand that a candidate being overqualified isn't a bad thing; it's, however, a risky thing for several reasons: · They're likely to become bored and become a flight risk. (Overqualified = too temporary. Employers don't want to hire, train, and then lose their new hire.) · An insubordination risk. (Often, an employer doesn't want a go-getter; they just want someone reliable to plug in and do the job without making noise about advancing their career.) · Will want to make changes, causing distractions. · Will act as a know-it-all. · Will expect to be paid more. All these, while not absolute, are valid concerns. Additionally, when you apply to a job posting, you're entering a competition. Considering all the tangible and intangible factors that go into a hiring decision, being overqualified for a position doesn't necessarily make you the best candidate. Contrary to beliefs designed to create excuses, overqualified candidates aren't seen as someone who'll be gunning for the boss's job, nor is "overqualified" code for "too old." Whether fair or not, a candidate's qualifications level contributes to a hiring manager's evaluation of whether they'll be a "fit," which, not surprisingly, many job seekers label as discrimination. Would you hire a 5-star chef to flip hamburgers at your diner? (Yes, an exaggeration, but the point is made.) Elimination is integral to any hiring process; therefore, discrimination is inevitable. When receiving hundreds of applications for one position, an employer has no choice but to look for reasons to eliminate candidates to whittle down to the few who are phone and face-to-face interview-worthy. This is when the real "elimination discrimination" begins. As humans, hiring managers naturally focus on "what they like" or "who'll be a good fit." Many hiring managers, especially those at executive levels, evaluate candidates based on how they feel they'll integrate with their team or can see themselves liking the candidate socially; therefore, if you're likeable, your interviewer will probably overlook your being overqualified. Being likable trumps your skills and experience; thus, prioritize being likable over your skills and experience. Whenever you find yourself in an interview knowing you're overqualified for the job, an indication that the employer is interested in hearing your career story and why you're interested in the job, you need to address the elephant in the room ASAP. Addressing your interviewer's concerns (e.g., age, commute time, overqualification) before they bring it up is a savvy job search strategy rarely utilized. When your interviewer raises their concerns, you're put on the defensive. You want to be on the offensive. Therefore, prepare a "don't worry about" script that you can use after exchanging pleasantries. "If it's okay with you before we begin, I'd like to address something you might be wondering about, my [qualifications, experience]. Although I have X years of experience and have held more senior roles, I'm looking to scale back so I can better focus on delivering my best work while also [caring for an aging parent / spending time with my family]." Being upfront in addressing your interviewer's concern(s), which I assure you they'll very much appreciate, demonstrates you have the emotional intelligence to understand and respect the employer's possible concerns, which will help you establish a positive relationship with your interviewer, thus increasing your odds of being hired. _____________________________________________________________________ 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

Life Is A Drag - No Really

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 remember the days when I went to school. We had the outmost respect for our educators. No matter the situation. We made sure that we showed respect. I remember having this one teacher. She was a bit of a dish if you know what I mean. Real short skirts and blouses that would make a grown man weep. She was beautiful. But even thought she was beautiful. She had self respect, dignity and pride in knowing she was beautiful and did not have any scruples in accessorizing her god given beauty. Everyone treated her with respect and kindness. Some of the women, obviously would talk behind her back. That was expected. I remember her as if it was yesterday. We would not dare be smart ass or make rude comments. What happened to those days. Women were women. Men were men and we all had respect for one another. The other day my grand child came up tome and said. Grandpa, you hear what they are doing at school? I said, NO - What. She said. They are having men come in dressed as women and read us books. I said. WHAAATTT. Where are we going here. In today's world you make a comment to a woman that she is beautiful and you get charged with sexual harassment. A woman much like my old teacher walks in a school and she gets called all kind of name and shamed for her natural beauty. Now where did we loose our ability to be decent? A man dressed up as a woman in my book is a mental illness. To have these guys read books to little children is wrong. Why not have women like my teacher sit there and read the kids books? Why because it be morally wrong for the woman to be exposing her beauty to children. She would have better sense to compromise the innocence of children. My teacher would have never even consider doing something in order to support some sexual agenda. That is plain wrong. No matter how you look at it. Don't you agree?

Beyond Her Grasp

from Wayne & Tamara I am a woman, 42, who three years ago married a wonderful man who will be 48 on his next birthday. I love him very, very much. The only problem is our sex life is horrible. Pretty much nonexistent. I can safely say we have had sex maybe 20 times in our six year relationship. When I've tried numerous times to talk to him, he gets defensive and says, "There's nothing wrong with me." He also says, if I want to have sex, I should just say so. But when I make advances, he pushes me away thinking I am playing with him. Then he leaves the room. Of course I get frustrated, out of the mood, and give up. I love my husband so much I don't make a big deal of it, although I know this is not normal or healthy. I can't get him to go to counseling or discuss this. I am at my sexual peak, and I am tired of dreaming of sex with other men. I want our relationship to work, but I just don't know how much longer I can go on like this. Claire Claire, you can work on planting a garden, you can work on your weight loss, you can work on your reading speed. But you cannot work on someone else's problem, unless they are willing, and failure is guaranteed when they tell you they do not have a problem. Thoreau said, "It takes two to speak the truth--one to speak and another to hear." Your husband will not hear or discuss reality, the reality of the situation as you see it. You married him knowing he had this problem. Marriage does not cure a problem, it makes you a party to it for a while. Is this the hard lesson you had to learn? That you cannot marry a man with a serious problem and expect to fix it. Wayne & Tamara Calling Her Bluff I've been with my boyfriend for four years, and he is going through the longest divorce known to man. His soon-to-be ex knows of me and told him she is insanely jealous. She makes my life complete hell by emailing him sexual innuendoes, asking him for expensive gifts, and calling him an average of 12 times a day. I told him to cut the cord. If he wants to be with me, he has to protect me, be true to me, and make me feel secure in this relationship. We even tried counseling a few years back, and then he cheated on me with her. Many times I told him to get on with this divorce or I would be gone, but it doesn't seem to scare him anymore. How do I get my point across to this man, and do I have any grounds to tell this woman to leave him alone and just tend to her children? Paige Paige, the one thing which may set you free is to look on this situation from a different point of view. He didn't cheat on you with her. She's his wife. He's cheating on her with you. You describe her as his soon-to-be ex, but "soon-to-be ex" is a term more likely to describe your future, not hers. You threaten and threaten to leave, and you never do. Bluffing in poker may be good strategy, but bluffing in life is weak. Once your bluff is called, you've lost all power and all credibility. And counseling? Think about how funny that is. You went for relationship counseling with a man in a marriage to another woman. Why do you keep plodding forward? Because you want to be married. There is nothing wrong with that. But you cannot marry someone who is already married. There is a simple solution. Don't give up wanting to be married, just give up married men. 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.

Weight and Diet Strain Knees and Hips

By W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford How many thousands of knee and hip replacements, and how much pain, could be avoided by the right diet? Arthritis has been called the chronic-care challenge of the 21st century. It is no small problem in economic terms either. A few months ago, The Lancet, a peer-reviewed medical journal, published startling statistics. Over the last 30 years, the global incidence of osteoarthritis has risen by132% to 595 million people. There is no sign of the disease slowing down and there’s no cure. What does this mean? For public healthcare systems like Canada’s, it means ever more costs to the taxbase for higher and higher numbers of expensive knee and hip replacements. Osteoarthritis is the “wear and tear” form of arthritis. Like aging car brakes that wear down with use, human joints begin to grate and scrape with age. It’s a fact that heavier vehicles need especially careful maintenance. People carrying excess weight should shed it to avoid unnecessary wear. But arthritis is caused by more than just heavy use and aging. Inadequate nutrition also sets the stage for arthritis. The famous Framingham Health Study followed thousands of people for 40 years assessing risk factors for osteoarthritis. The study showed that people with osteoarthritis who consumed over 9,000 international units of beta-carotene a day had decreased progression of this disease and were less likely to suffer from knee pain later in life. A Finnish study showed that people with low levels of beta-carotene were eight times more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis as they aged. Beta-carotene is present in deep-coloured vegetables and fruits. The same Framingham study underscored the importance of vitamin D. People with arthritic knees consuming less than 350 units developed arthritis at higher rates than those who took over 400 units a day. There’s good reason why. Vitamin D is needed for the absorption of calcium. The typical dietary source of vitamin D is milk, one of nature’s nearly perfect foods. But few people drink enough milk daily. The Framingham study uncovered another vital fact, that our joints need oil. But not all the oils we eat are equal. Our food contains different types of fatty acids. The good omega-3 fatty acids fight inflammation; the bad omega-6 fatty acids trigger inflammation. Obviously, it’s better to have more of the good oils than the bad ones. But North Americans eat 10 times more omega-6 than omega-3, and this sad reality triggers not only arthritis, but also heart disease. Research shows that death from heart attack may be the result of a combination of both clogged and inflamed coronary arteries. The logical solution is to change our diet. Increase consumption of fruits and vegetables to obtain healthy vitamins. One carrot contains 20,000 international units of beat-carotene and a sweet potato with skin has 25,000 IU. Drink three glasses of milk daily or get the equivalent through supplementation. Excellent sources of omega-3 are salmon, halibut and sardines. Omega-3 is also found in walnuts, beans, tofu, flaxseed oil, pecans and green leafy vegetables. A high-quality supplement like Certified Natural’s Omega-3X is recommended since few people eat enough of the dietary sources. To avoid omega-6 oils reduce processed, frozen and boxed foods. Skip the crackers, cookies and most desserts. Buy the right cooking oils. Omega-6 is present in corn, sunflower and cottonseed oil. Olive, soybean and canola cooking oils contain omega-3. Don’t neglect weight control. The pressure on your knees going upstairs is 2.5 times your body weight. Going downstairs, it is 3.5 times. Squatting amounts to 8 times the pressure. Weight reduction goes far to increasing the benefits of sound nutrition in preventing osteoarthritis. 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

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.

DO WE REALLY NEED MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENTS?

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 - Let’s look at this from an economic perspective. Why do we need municipal government? It appears that once elected. They disappear from the public eye. The rule of thumb is... do nothing during your term... and name recognition will carry you to a re-election. This norm has been in play for years. Reason. The same people turn out time after time and time. These voters do not bother to look at the credential of new candidates and vote on name recognition. This is wrong. Those that keep being elected. Case in point City of Oshawa. Only one councillor was replaced. All other including the Mayor got voted in. Can you really tell me that the people of Oshawa are that happy with the quality of life in Oshawa!!! You got to be kidding me. On top of that the City hits every tax payer with a huge tax increase and that is ok. I don’t know about you. I don’t mind paying, if i am getting my tax dollars worth... But, I don’t think this is the case here. I don’t know how any of these so called municipal elect can go to sleep at night knowing that there are so many sleeping on the street. I don’t know how these same elected can cash their cheques week after week knowing they are not competent to do the job they were elected. I say this with such freedom... Look at any of the candidates job history.... look at what they become after they loose an election. To represent the downtown. We have a deadbeat third rate musician. No business experience... No downtown business. Yet, he is responsible for making key decision for the downtown. You wonder why the downtown looks like a war zone. Why, there is no real business life. I say, the municipality wants to increase our taxes by 10%. The elected officials and city management staff salaries go down by the same amount. See how quickly, they put a tax freeze. People have time and time again complained they call their municipality and representative do not return calls. Do we need municipal government. Are we not better to just have a regional government? After all. The Region sits on 2 Billion reserves. Yes, 2 Billion of your tax dollars. Why, are we paying for municipal services when the region can accommodate. I think it is time for the silent majority to rise up and take control before we all end up living in a tent. You may smirk... Ahhh never me! That is what the people now living in the tents thought also. Get real, demand accountability and adequate service for your hard earned tax dollar.

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.