Celebrating Canada Day (Dominion Day) with Heritage and Traditions

As we celebrate Canada Day, I am filled with pride for our beautiful country and everything it represents. Our nation, founded under God, stands as a beacon of freedom, democracy, and unity. These values, symbolized by our iconic Canadian flag, inspire me every day in my role as a politician. From the early days of Jacques Cartier to Sir John A. MacDonald, Canada was built on Christian principles, with deep roots in the Church of England and a devotion to God’s teachings. Our Parliament buildings, adorned with biblical passages, remind us of this heritage. Psalm 72:8, inscribed on the Peace Tower, proclaims, “May He have dominion from sea to sea,” reflecting our identity as The Dominion of Canada. This is more than just history; it’s a call to uphold the values of faith, justice, and unity that shaped our nation. Today, however, these foundational principles are under threat. Our educational institutions often overlook Canada’s Christian heritage, teaching instead a narrative devoid of these roots. The rise of secularism and the promotion of ideologies that contradict our historical values concern me deeply. It’s essential to educate our children, not indoctrinate them. We must ensure our schools foster critical thinking and respect for diverse opinions, rather than pushing one-sided agendas. Unfortunately, some politicians prioritize political posturing over patriotism, choosing to fly special interest flags on government buildings rather than solely our national and government flags. This is, in my opinion incredibly unpatriotic. The Canadian flag should always be our number one symbol, alongside the veterans’ flag, honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. It’s unfortunate that some politicians care more about special interest groups and d gaining votes, than upholding the very foundations on which Canada was built: the supremacy of God, our Bill of Rights, and our Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The erosion of these values undermines the sacrifices made by our veterans who fought for the freedoms we enjoy. To preserve their legacy, we must resist the pull of transient cultural shifts and the so-called “woke” ideologies that seek to redefine our national identity. Holding onto our traditions is not just a matter of nostalgia; it’s about safeguarding the moral and spiritual fabric of our society. Biblical passages like Ephesians 6:13, which calls us to “put on the full armor of God,” remind us of our duty to stand firm against the challenges we face. As a nation, we must remember that our strength lies in our unity and our adherence to the principles that have guided us since our founding. We are a nation under God, and it is His sovereignty that has sustained us. On this Canada Day, let us reflect on our heritage and renew our commitment to the values that define us. Together, we can keep Canada strong and free, a place where everyone can thrive and contribute to our shared future. As we celebrate, let’s proudly wave our Canadian flag, our true pride flag, and reaffirm our commitment to this great nation and its enduring values. Please sign up for my online newsletter. Through my web site: lisarobionpolitician.ca "Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head-On And Rise Above It"

Rethinking harmful DEI policies that are steering us towards Communism

By Patricia Conlin Have you ever heard of the phrase Divide and Conquer which was made famous by Julius Caesar during the Roman Empire? This military strategy to control the masses has worked so well over the centuries that it is still being used today in the form of Identity Politics. An example of Identity Politics are DEI policies. DEI which is supposedly an acronym for Diversity/Equity/Inclusion is more accurately described as Division and Engineered/Inequality. As an active and concerned citizen of Durham Region, it’s time for all of us to examine the harm of DEI policies. I speak on this topic out of love for all people regardless of any external factors including their skin colour, beliefs or their choices for life partners. Today’s DEI policies are leading us collectively down a very dark path. They are fueling division and are blatantly discriminatory. Martin Luther King stated beautifully “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” Martin Luther King fought for a world where his fellow man had an equal opportunity and was treated fairly and with respect independent of race, religion or sexual identity. Current DEI policies actually promote reverse discrimination and inequity instead of what they advertise. And this isn’t the first time this propaganda has been used by governments. The roots of so called “Diversity, Equity and Inclusion” come from Marxist ideology which was used throughout history as a tool to implement totalitarian policies in communist countries with promises of a utopia of equality which of course never happens. The result with these types of Marxist ideologies is always the same…increased censorship, government control, corruption and poverty. Any yet, here we are again going down this path of division. Right now, in Canada as an example, some jobs are advertising ONLY for those who are part of the LGBTQ++ community to apply. Others will not be considered. This is excellent if you are part of the LGTBQ++ community but not if you are not. You won’t have a chance under DEI even if you have the best skills for the jobs. Is that fair? Other companies are subsidized to hire new immigrants or refugees instead of long-term Canadians and if you say anything about it, you will be called a racist or worse. Many long-term immigrants are seeing that they are being cast aside for the newer arrivals who meet made up criteria of deserving better treatment. Is this right? As Canadians become poorer, sicker and increasingly demoralized, these polices become more fanatical. There is now, like in communist countries, a quota for every “persecuted group” except our government has totally forgotten about merit or character. Martin Luther King was a powerful force of unity but current government policies seek only to divide. DEI has gotten so out of control that safety and quality are now at state. Companies like Boeing and many others are experiencing massive issues with quality control as a result of having implemented DEI policies. They have seen record safety issues due to hiring unqualified people over competent workers to meet DEI quotas. Is it healthy that we are building a victim society where only those who identify as being persecuted are granted any assistance, employment or support? Although equity of opportunity is critical to all of us in Canada, no government or private official can or should work to guarantee equity of outcome. This means that decisions for hiring, events and policies should be based on equal standards or benefits for all people in the community. But is this happening? Even if you are benefiting today from DEI policies, realize that you too might be on the chopping block by discriminatory policies that might judge you not by your work but by whatever new quota has been identified. We are all equal and each person deserves the opportunity to improve their live and reach their goals. Let’s remove Marxist DEI from government, work and schools and start promoting equal opportunities for everyone. This starts with removing harmful ideologies from our schools, focusing on skills and learning, hard work, character and competence again so we can create real positive growth and unity again in Canada.

Innovation Unlocked: How CEO’s Can Encourage

Connection, Community, and Creativity By Stephanie Uprichard, IDC, GDC, ARIDO, IIDA Studio Forma Interior Design Principal Designer Connection, Community, And Innovation: Unleashing Creativity In The Workforce In the modern business landscape, innovation and problem-solving are key drivers of success. CEO’s recognize that fostering a sense of connection and community within their organizations not only enhances employee satisfaction but also unleashes the creative potential required for breakthrough ideas and solutions. Here’s how these vital aspects are intertwined and how CEO’s can further encourage a culture of innovation: The Power of Connection and Community in Innovation When employees feel connected and part of a community, they are more inclined to share ideas, challenge assumptions, and build on each other’s thoughts. This collaborative environment stimulates creativity and fosters a collective intelligence that can lead to innovative breakthroughs. A strong sense of community also encourages risk-taking and the exploration of new ideas, as individuals feel supported and valued, even if their suggestions don’t always lead to success. CEO’s who understand this connection actively work to break down silos and encourage cross-functional collaboration. They recognize that diverse perspectives are crucial to innovation and that a community-oriented culture can provide a platform for diverse thoughts and experiences to come together. Encouraging Innovation through Connection and Community Here are some ways in which CEO’s can further encourage innovation within their organizations, building on the foundation of connection and community: Foster a Culture of Psychological Safety: Create an environment where employees feel safe to speak up, ask questions, and share ideas without fear of rejection or ridicule. This can be achieved through inclusive leadership, where diverse thoughts are welcomed, and through team-building activities that emphasize the value of each individual’s contribution. Embrace Diversity and Inclusion: Seek out and promote diverse talent, ensuring that your workforce represents a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Diversity fuels innovation, and by creating an inclusive community, CEO’s can harness the power of these diverse viewpoints to drive creative solutions. Encourage Cross-Functional Collaboration: Break down departmental barriers and encourage employees from different teams to collaborate. This can be facilitated through mixed-team projects, social events, or even shared physical spaces that bring people together. Such interactions spark new connections and can lead to innovative insights. Provide Creative Spaces: In addition to the physical design elements mentioned earlier, consider incorporating dedicated creative spaces within the office. These might include maker spaces, innovation labs, or simply areas with whiteboards and creative supplies, encouraging employees to brainstorm and experiment. Celebrate Failure: Reframe failure as a learning opportunity and a stepping stone to success. CEO’s can lead by example here, sharing their own stories of failure and the lessons learned. This shifts the organizational mindset from one of risk-aversion to one of experimentation and growth. Leading with Vision and Inspiration CEO’s set the tone and provide the vision that inspires employees to embrace innovation. Here’s how they can further encourage a culture of creativity: Share the Vision: Clearly articulate the organization’s vision and how innovation plays a role in achieving it. Help employees understand how their contributions, no matter how small, fit into the bigger picture. This provides a sense of purpose and motivates employees to bring their creative best. Lead by Example: CEO’s should embody an innovative mindset, embracing new ideas and technologies. They should be willing to experiment, learn, and adapt, signaling to employees that innovation is a continuous journey. Leading by example inspires employees to follow suit. Recognize and Reward: Implement recognition programs that celebrate innovative achievements, no matter how small. Recognizing and rewarding employees who take calculated risks, challenge the status quo, or develop creative solutions encourages others to do the same. By fostering connection and community within the workforce, CEO’s create an environment ripe for innovation and creative problem-solving. This, coupled with a thoughtful approach to office design and a culture of psychological safety, empowers employees to bring their full creative selves to the table.

Think of Ways You Can Be Attractive to Employers

By Nick Kossovan Think of Ways You Can Be Attractive to Employers Shiny objects catch our attention. When job searching, you want to be that shiny object that catches the attention of employers; exposure is the key. There's no "shiny" without exposure. Some people—perhaps you know one or two—are constantly sought after by employers, while most chase employers. Sought after people understand it's not their knowledge or experience that will make them attractive to employers, but what they show. (read: expose) Consequently, the adage "It's who you know, not what you know" has been replaced with "It's not who you know, it's who knows you." In today's job market, finding a job boils down to making yourself as attractive to employers as possible. When you appear on an employer's radar, you want them to say, "I must meet this person!" The more attractive you are as a "must-meet," the more opportunities will present themselves. Whether or not you successfully attract opportunities depends on what you strategically (keyword) show the world. Fundamentally, when searching for a job, your skills and experience matter less than what you show. (Of course, you must show employers what they want to see.) Showing requires visibility; visibility requires exposure, which can be achieved in several ways. · Utilize social media to build a strong presence. Employers and recruiters pay attention to online "goings-on," hence the obvious: Use social media to promote yourself. When done correctly and consistently, your digital footprint will showcase your expertise and connect you with influencers in your field and industry, along with: 1. Positioning you as an expert in your industry and/or profession. 2. Demonstrating your communication skills, a skill employers highly value. The key is to be active, ideally daily, and not just passively observe. Don't just create profiles and let them sit there. Participate in LinkedIn groups, write posts and guest blogs, share insightful content, and ask questions. Social media's reach is unfathomable. You never know who might read your profile or content and contact you. Years ago, I got a call from Crocs's VP of Human Resources. The head of marketing had seen my Pinterest board, 'Brands That Have My Heart,' which included Crocs— it's common for employers to Google themselves to see what's being said about their products—and after reviewing my LinkedIn profile, felt I might be a good fit for an open position her had. I ended up working for Crocs for several years. My social media posts often lead to recruiters and employers contacting me. When used to build a visible personal brand, the Internet and social media are job seekers' best friends. · Become an active member of a professional association. Professional associations are the perfect place to increase your visibility with like-minded individuals who share a passion for a particular profession or industry. Employers often look for candidates among association members. Understandably, employers prefer players in their industry, people who exhibit an affinity for their profession and industry by staying current with news, trends, and market changes, information that can come in handy during interviews. As with not leaving your social media idle, don't join an association solely to list it on your resume and LinkedIn profile. Being visible in an organization requires active participation. Volunteer to recruit conference speakers, or, even better, be a speaker/panellist yourself. Write for the association's newsletter, offer to manage their social media, or sit on a committee. Becoming a member of an association opens you up to a smorgasbord of networking opportunities with people who are most likely attached to opportunities in some way. Hence, to be top of mind for the opportunities they're connected to, they first need to know you. · Volunteer "strategically" You probably know someone whom everyone knows because of their volunteer work. Strategic volunteering means volunteering for a position (e.g., fundraiser, social media manager, event planner) within a cause that'll leverage and enhance your core skills while making a tangible contribution to the cause, which is where creating your visibility happens—difference-makers are noticed—and provides an opportunity to expand your network. Volunteerism brings together people from a wide variety of industries and backgrounds for a common goal, thereby creating uncommon connection opportunities that often lead to rare opportunities. All networking, no matter with whom, has potential benefits. Additionally, many employers gravitate to charitable candidates. · Make your LinkedIn profile stand out with numbers. According to Hootsuite, every month, 1.6 billion people visit LinkedIn. You don't need statistical evidence to know LinkedIn profiles receive many more views than resumes, so give your LinkedIn profile lots of love! Your LinkedIn profile and resume should follow the cardinal rule of emphasizing your results rather than your responsibilities. An employer's success largely depends on its employees' results; therefore, understandably, your past results are all they care about. Use quantifying numbers that illustrate your achievements to make your LinkedIn profile and resume stand out. For instance, mentioned that you managed a $4 million annual budget or that you sourced a new Internet service provider that reduced costs by 15%. Numbers that show that you improved your employer's bottom line or increased revenue are eye-catching, making you a shiny object. ___________________________________________________________________________ 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

Mrs. Robinson

from Wayne & Tamara My wife, 41, and I have been married 18 years. She is very religious and attends church every weekend. During the past six months she's shown special interest in a 25-year-old young man who is new to her church. Based on our phone records, she calls him several times a day even when we are on vacation. When I ask why she is so interested, she says she is mentoring and coaching this young man in life situations. He recently broke up with his girlfriend, and she serves as a sounding board for him. She told me she has no romantic feelings for the young man. However, she does care for this single young man and loves him as a friend. He is always a perfect gentleman, she claims. She says she would like to help him find a girlfriend, but I do not see much evidence of that. A few months ago she asked if he could spend the night in our house since he lives an hour away and it was late. I told her no. She invited him anyway. When I found out he was in the house, I asked her to tell him to leave. She did. That incident did not change their relationship. She took a trip with him to a church function out of town, while I was on a business trip. Am I simply being jealous? Should I be concerned this relationship will grow into a romance? Jim Jim, if you don't have children, and if we consider your wife's age, there is an innocent possibility. Many women in their 40s feel a biological need to mother. They often want a child. We might call this the last gasp of their biology. What your wife is doing could be a last expression of her biological urge. He's a young man, lost in life, and she can direct and mother him. This may also be what is expected of her in her church, so she is taking care of two things. She is nurturing him as a mother, and she is nurturing him spiritually as her religion requires. There is another possibility, of course, one which trips your triggers. You see this as the movie "The Graduate" and your wife as Mrs. Robinson, the older woman who seduces a young man. Women in their 30s and 40s are at their sexual peak, and your wife could be attracted to a young man. Which of the two is it? Is her biological clock ticking, or is her sexual pot boiling? You know your wife better than anyone. Take an honest look at your relationship with her right now. Not how you imagine it to be, but how it actually is. Is she enough disconnected from you to be having an affair with a young man? Or is she looking for the spiritual and emotional connection you've lost with her? Wayne & Tamara Want Ads I work at a small radio station. I started eight months ago, and I've done really well. But the longer I'm here the more problems I have with my boss. He's the type of man who can talk friendly all day, but the minute you want to talk business, he gives you the cold shoulder. I work on commission and am paid once a month. I was supposed to be paid 10 days ago, but I haven't even seen my boss. Five of my paychecks have bounced since I started. I need money to pay bills, but the more I ask for my commission, the more he avoids me. Natalie Natalie, the Greeks invented a way of deducing answers called the syllogism. Putting your problem in a three-part syllogism, we get this: I have a job and jobs pay money. I am not being paid. Therefore, I don't really have a job. I must move on. Wayne 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.

“SOCIAL MEDIA, FACEBOOK, NEXTDOOR, YOUTUBE ETC.” IS IT GOOD OR BAD ?

On the upside, some would say, Social Media has opened the world to them ….. - it brings me closer to family & friends who live far away from me, who otherwise I might not see - it links me with groups of similar interests and hobbies, and thereby, new friends - it introduces me to my neighbours and alerts me to what is happening in my neighbourhood - it allows ordinary people to provide their opinions on comments of others, of politics, of news etc - the comments, videos, stories often bring a smile to my face, a tear to my eye or challenge me On the downside, it has allowed a platform for bullies, for haters and those that delight in being able to brag to their like minded friends, “Well, I told them”….. Hmmm …. The majority of these bullies are full of self importance, bullies take pride in attacking without actually knowing what they are attacking. Bullies attacks are based on a headline or usually on what someone told them. Bullies can’t wait to jump in, their self importance desires to be the first to attack without research. Rarely do these bullies actually read or understand the whole article or have they actually witnessed the happening. There are two types of bullies, those puffed up on self importance seeing their name on social media for all to see and then there are the bullies who hide behind fake names and pictures. Note - Neither do either of these types of bullies actually explain or answer why they felt the need to attack. Bullies seem to lack common sense or understanding. MANY MUNICIPALITIES AND COMMUNITIES, INCLUDING THOSE IN DURHAM, USE SOCIAL MEDIA AS ANOTHER PLATFORM TO KEEP CITIZENS INFORMED. The City of Pickering has their own Facebook known as …. Let’s Talk Pickering …. an online hub to find out about what special projects and initiatives are open for public comment. Note - you must register to get involved. “Pickering Talk”, a facebook forum, not the city’s, created to given residents another avenue to share their many valid questions and concerns as to what’s happening. Unfortunately it seems this forum is used primarily by a number of residents (bullies) to spread their biases, only a few residents use this forum to bring up valid concerns. I have to ask the following bullies, who continually have delightedly these past number of months posted their names and biases against Councillor Robinson; “Hopes Cradle” a safe place for a mother to secretly anonymously abandon/surrender her baby, without facing criminal charges, provided the baby is healthy. Sounds good, save a life. so what’s the downside? Hmmm … let’s think about this for a minute. Suppose the mother is/was youR daughter, grandaughter, your girlfriend, your son’s girlfriend etc. and for one reason or another, you were not aware of the pregnancy. You only become aware some months later that a baby, who related to you, was born. Too bad for you after thirty days, any legal rights as the mother or you, a blood relative who was never aware of the pregnancy, has no rights to the child, the baby, your family member has gone into the system and you will be left with a hole in your heart, never knowing the joy of having this child in your life. I understand that these are the questions that Councillor Robinson asked, that need to be dealt with prior to just approving Hopes Cradle as it currently stands. I pray that you, your daughter, your son or other close relative never finds yourself in this situation. As an added note, the baby will never know it’s medical & family history. Now, for all you bullies, real & fake, who love to be seen out there and love make false accusations, Kathy Sauve Uden, Brenda Holdsworth, Lead Todd, Allison Myers Marcoux, Lesly Mckenna McConnell, Janet DiLeo, Chris Raithby Robinson, Julie Fontbona, Aaron Mcguillicuddy, Ed Cunningham, Kevin Ashe & others it’s time for you all to stop the accusations, stop trying to pass your misguided words off as being the councilor's words. I challenge you to “Provide real proof, evidence of your accusations not what someone else said or wrote, that’s hearsay”. In my opinion, all government levels, are in a mess because we are afraid to speak up for what’s right. PLEASE SPEAK UP WHILE WE HAVE SOME RIGHTS BEFORE WE LOSE THEM ALL

Mayor Ignores Public Pleas for Change Room Choice at Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex (CHDRC)

By Lisa Robinson - Pickering City Councillor In a recent development, Mayor Kevin Ashe has dismissed my pleas to bring forward a motion that would allow users of the CHDRC to choose their preferred change room. Despite substantial public interest and repeated recent requests, the mayor’s response indicates a clear disregard for the community’s concerns. The mayor’s reasoning is encapsulated in his recent correspondence: “Your request for a Seconder on Notice of Motion is moot. As of December 2023, CHDRC front desk staff have been trained and instructed to consider accommodation requests from non-members to use the membership change rooms. This has been promoted on our Conversations in the Community web page for the past half year. I am aware that you’ve previously referenced Conversations in the Community on social media, but perhaps you missed this key point. Here is a link to the page: Conversations in the Community I know that this issue is very important to you, but to date, there have been zero instances where non-members have requested to use the membership change rooms. Outside of some online chatter that took place months ago, the reality is that the universal change rooms are a non-issue for the thousands of visitors and users of the CHDRC. I hope these new insights are able to satisfy your concerns.” In response to the mayor’s stance, I conveyed the following: Dear Mr. Mayor, Thank you for your response regarding the accommodation requests at the CHDRC. I appreciate the efforts taken to train front desk staff and the promotion of this information on the “Conversations in the Community” webpage. However, I must respectfully disagree with your assertion that this issue is moot, and here is why. Firstly, the absence of formal requests from non-members to use the membership change rooms does not necessarily indicate a lack of demand or concern. It is possible that potential users are unaware of their rights or feel uncomfortable making such requests, particularly if they have not seen explicit signage or direct communication about this accommodation at the CHDRC. Secondly, while the “Conversations in the Community” webpage is a valuable resource, not all community members may visit this page or be aware of its contents. This highlights a gap in communication that could be addressed through more proactive measures, such as clear signage at the facility, direct emails to registered users, and social media posts specifically highlighting this accommodation policy. Furthermore, my recent influx of calls, emails, and social media comments on this topic indicates a growing concern within the community that cannot be ignored. These communications suggest that there is indeed an underlying issue that needs to be addressed more transparently and effectively. I believe that incorporating this accommodation policy into a formal, widely disseminated policy document would provide clarity and assurance to all users. This could involve outlining specific procedures for non-members to request access to the membership change rooms, ensuring staff are not only trained but also periodically reminded of these protocols, and actively monitoring the policy’s effectiveness through regular feedback from the community. In conclusion, while your insights provide some context, they do not fully address the concerns being raised by community members. A formal policy would not only address current issues but also prevent potential misunderstandings in the future, ensuring that the CHDRC remains an inclusive and welcoming space for all. Thank you for considering this perspective. I look forward to continued dialogue on this matter. Sincerely, Councillor Lisa Robinson We hope that Mr. Mayor acts in the best interest of the people of Pickering and brings this forth in open and civil public debate. "Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head-On And Rise Above It"

Ontario education today: doing everything but teaching fundamentals

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East Ontario’s school system is worse than a tsunami disaster on all fronts these days. It seems to be driven by an ignorant woke class that permeates every aspect of the system like a malignant virus. A group of people in power positions pushing their own agenda with a blatant disregard for parental input, opinion or concerns. Today, the leaders of the boards of education are there to tell you that as a parent you do not need to know what is being taught, just trust them. If you ask questions, they tell you that you are racist, your kids are racist, the system is racist, everyone is homophobic, and our society is built on white supremacy and colonialism. Furthermore, the police are to be feared and Canada is a horrible country whose founders are to be forgotten because they were bad people. They also tell you that mathematics and science are only to be tolerated and sidelined because they are tools of the privileged class. Today’s educational leaders favor the new, so-called futuristic social approaches in order to create a ‘better’ society, ruled in bliss, by ignorants. Most people are unaware of what goes on in the school system. They genuinely believe the system is there to provide a service on which they can rely to do the best for their children. That may have been the case once upon a time, but now the system is there to serve the needs, wants and ideology of a completely ignorant class of lackeys and the wokecrats who employ and enable them. Not long ago, Canada was a beacon of hope; the example of a harmonious society eager to do better for the country and be proud of it. Today we see a destructive trend that fractures our country and creates friction in our society, perpetuated by people following a globalist ideology that is harmful to the very existence of humanity. This is evident in the educational approach of today, which ignores real science in favor of a pseudo social science. Today it is more important to socialise than teach mathematics, physics and chemistry. One may wonder whether there are still teachers available who are knowledgeable in and competent to teach these subjects. Long gone are the homework assignments for children to complete, that served as the basis of a teacher parent interaction. Parents today are deliberately kept in the dark, strongly discouraged from asking questions about the curriculum or how it is being implemented in their child’s classroom. At best, they are given very vague, non-committal answers. Children are not allowed to bring home their workbooks, or even their marked tests. They are told the mark they got on the test, but do not have it when the correct answers are discussed, to see where they went wrong. Have these educators forgotten that correcting your own mistakes is one of the key elements of effective learning? The education system has become quite dictatorial with no recourse for questioning by the very people who pay the taxes to support it, and hence, pay their salaries. The results are evident in the performance of Ontario students on provincial tests in mathematics. They have been on a steady decline for years, despite careful tweaking of who takes the test, and specific lessons delivered before administering the test. It seems that the education system is there to produce graduates who are scientifically illiterate and technically challenged. This is not good for either the province or the country. For example, once Canada was a strong leader in the nuclear sciences. Today, when nuclear energy is recognized as ‘green energy’, we have lost that edge to countries whose education systems still hold mathematics and the exact sciences to be the cornerstone of general education. An approach to education that marginalizes mathematics and the exact sciences by making them socially unacceptable is bound to flounder in a technological world. A curriculum that makes statements like the following has clearly been taken over by people trying to rationalize their own scientific illiteracy: “Mathematics has been used to normalize racism and marginalization of non-Eurocentric mathematical knowledges, and a decolonial, anti-racist approach to mathematics education makes visible its historical roots and social constructions,” taken from the 2021 curriculum revision. When kids are being taught that math is racist, or everyone in history, including one of the founding fathers of our country, Sir John A. MacDonald for example, is racist, or that they are racist, a great injustice is being done both to the children and our history. Furthermore, the current curriculum is exposing children prematurely to social constructs in the classroom that also pose legitimate concerns, particularly about gender ideology. The idea that we should be teaching young children that gender is fluid, that you can change your gender, before they even fully understand the concept of gender, is not only unconscionable, but a recipe for disaster. There are also policies in place at school boards across the province that tell teachers not to inform parents of children, as young as four, who tell a teacher they want to change their gender. The school policy, far too often, is to do what the child says he/she wants based on premature exposure to these social constructs in school, while keeping the parents in the dark. There are also boards of education that prefer to celebrate flags other than the Canadian Flag, hoisting it instead of the symbol of our nation. How is that for inclusivity? Is this the new and revolutionary concept of nation building? We also had bans on allowing police officers into classrooms, especially in uniform, even for kids who wanted to bring a parent who works in law enforcement, for career day. None of these issues are driven by what is best for the students. They are driven by wicked politics. It is time for parents to stand up and say, enough is enough. It is also time for the government to listen to parents and return to them their justly earned primary role in the education of their own children. What do you think?

A Call to Action: Strengthening Laws Against Bicycle, E-Bike, and Scooter Theft in Canada

By Dale Jodoin In recent years, Canada has witnessed a significant shift in transportation habits. More and more Canadians are choosing bicycles, e-bikes, and scooters over traditional vehicles. This change is not just a trend; it's a conscious effort to reduce environmental impact, cut down on traffic congestion, and promote a healthier lifestyle. Cities across the country are responding by investing in infrastructure such as bike lanes, dedicated parking, and shared mobility services. However, while infrastructure improves, one critical aspect remains neglected: the laws governing the theft of these personal transportation devices. Theft of bicycles, e-bikes, and scooters is on the rise, outpacing car theft in many areas. In major Canadian cities, reports of stolen bikes have quadrupled over the past few years. According to the Vancouver Police Department, bike thefts increased by 60% between 2018 and 2022. Similarly, Toronto saw a 45% rise in reported bicycle thefts in the same period. These statistics are alarming, yet the legal response has been inadequate. The current laws treat the theft of bicycles, e-bikes, and scooters with leniency. Offenders often receive nothing more than a slap on the wrist. This light punishment does little to deter thieves, who know they can operate with minimal risk of serious consequences. When someone steals a car, they face significant penalties, including jail time and hefty fines. In contrast, stealing a bike, e-bike, or scooter rarely results in more than a minor fine or a brief stint in jail, if any at all. For many Canadians, bicycles, e-bikes, and scooters are not just recreational items; they are essential modes of transportation. They offer a cost-effective alternative to cars and public transit, especially in urban areas where traffic congestion is a daily challenge. With more people relying on these vehicles, the financial impact of theft is substantial. The cost of replacing a stolen bicycle can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the model. E-bikes and scooters are even more expensive, often costing between $1,000 and $4,000. For many individuals, the loss of their primary mode of transportation can lead to significant financial strain and disrupt their daily lives. Moreover, the environmental benefits of increased bicycle, e-bike, and scooter use are undermined by the high theft rates. When people lose confidence in the security of their personal transportation devices, they may revert to using cars, negating the environmental gains made by the shift to more sustainable modes of transport. To address this growing problem, we need stronger laws that treat the theft of bicycles, e-bikes, and scooters with the seriousness it deserves. Current penalties are insufficient to deter thieves, and the lack of enforcement leaves victims feeling helpless. We must push for legal reforms that impose stricter penalties for these types of thefts. Increased jail time and higher fines would send a clear message that stealing someone's personal transportation is a serious crime with significant consequences. Additionally, improved recovery efforts, such as dedicated police units for bike theft and better coordination with local bike shops and pawnshops, can increase the chances of recovering stolen property. We can look to other countries for examples of effective policies. In the Netherlands, a country known for its bike-friendly culture, bike theft is taken very seriously. Dutch police employ advanced methods, including bait bikes equipped with GPS trackers, to catch thieves. These efforts have significantly reduced bike theft rates and increased recovery rates. Adopting similar measures in Canada could help curb the problem. Beyond legal reforms, community involvement and technology can play a crucial role in preventing theft. Neighbourhood watch programs focused on bike theft, increased use of bike registration services, and the implementation of secure bike parking facilities can all contribute to reducing theft rates. Technology, such as GPS tracking devices and smart locks, can also make it more difficult for thieves to operate. It's time for Canadians to take action. We need a national petition to demand that our politicians address this issue with the urgency it deserves. By signing this petition, we can show our elected officials that we care about the security of our personal transportation and the environmental benefits that come with it. We must push for stronger laws, better enforcement, and community-based solutions to tackle the rising tide of bicycle, e-bike, and scooter theft. This issue affects us all, and it's time we treated it with the seriousness it deserves. By coming together, we can create a safer, more secure environment for all Canadians who choose to ride bicycles, e-bikes, and scooters. Let's make our voices heard and demand the changes needed to protect our personal transportation and promote a greener, healthier future for Canada. the rise in bicycle, e-bike, and scooter thefts in Canada is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. The current legal framework is inadequate and fails to deter thieves, leaving many Canadians vulnerable. Stronger laws, better enforcement, and community involvement are essential to address this problem. By signing a national petition and demanding action from our politicians, we can make a difference and ensure a safer, more secure future for all Canadians.

When Interviewing Speak to B, C and D (Examples)

By Nick Kossovan In my previous column, I outlined the steps for preparing for an interview: A. Research the company and its leadership team. B. Consider why you want to work for the company. C. Identify the company's pain points. D. Think of at least one genuine reason you'd like to work for the person you'd report to. E. Throughout your interview, speak to B, C, and D, which speak to the two factors that influence hiring decisions: 1. Reason, and 2. Ego I wrote it's understandable for interviewers to be interested in a candidate's reason(s) for being interested in the job. Therefore, ensure you have a solid grasp of why you want the job and can confidently answer, "Why do you want this job?" or "Why do you want to join our company?" Additionally, I discussed the importance of mentioning your understanding of the company's pain points and how your skills and experience can address them. Furthermore, I proposed a strategy that'll help you stand out from your competition, especially if your interviewer is the person you'll be reporting to: speak to their ego. In this column, I'll share two examples of what speaking to B, C, and D looks like. I'll start with Bob Nielsen, who's interviewing for an outside pharmaceutical representative position. His interviewer, Titos Thanides, who'd be his boss, asks the inevitable question: Why do you want to join Ottinger? Bob's answer: "I've been selling pharmaceutical products for over 15 years and have consistently exceeded sales targets due to my strong relationships with healthcare providers. At Nordstral Pharmaceuticals, I managed a territory spanning Kingston to Quebec City. In 2022, I received the Salesperson of the Year award for growing sales by 27%. I'm attracted to Ottinger's commitment to innovation and cutting-edge treatments. Ottinger's focus on R&D and new product development reflects my values and goals. I became a pharmaceutical rep to contribute to people's well-being. Ottinger is looking to gain market share in the Ottawa area, a challenge that excites me. Since I have established relationships with healthcare providers throughout the Ottawa region, I'm confident I can increase the use of Ottinher's pharmaceuticals, especially Serisone, a game-changing, innovative pulmonary fluid management drug. Additionally, I heard you speak at the International Conference on Pharmacy and Pharmacology in Winnipeg in October 2018 about pharmaceutical companies' societal role. It must have taken a lot of courage to publicly declare pharmaceutical companies should be less profit-driven and more socially responsible. You have a reputation for being one of the few leaders who speaks their truths, which would make working with you a privilege, and you're known for being a results-driven sales director who'd bring out the best in me." Here's how Ariana Darzi, interviewing for a Marketing Director position, responds to her would-be boss, Veronica Lodge's question: "Why do you want this job?" "I've been marketing consumer goods for over 22 years, from detergents to tissues to soft drinks to stationery. I've consistently delivered measurable results throughout my career, increasing brand awareness, market share, and profitability. For example, as Marketing Manager at Acme Corp, I oversaw the relaunch of their flagship tissue paper brand. In 18 months, using data-driven segmentation, targeted advertising, and innovative product development, my team and I increased our tissue paper market share by 36%. My interest in Sunshine Desserts is based on the company's reputation for product innovation and market leadership. As someone with a sweet tooth, I've long admired how Sunshine Desserts consistently pushes the boundaries of what's possible and understands sweet doesn't have to equate to being unhealthy. Your recent line of sugar-free desserts, many of which I've tried, your peanut butter cookies being my favourite, is a prime example of the forward-thinking, consumer-centric approach I want to be a part of. I read in Canadian Living that you're launching a gluten-free dessert line this fall, which I'm looking forward to trying. Sunshine Desserts faces the same challenge as its competitors. Health-conscious consumers no longer consider desserts part of a healthy diet. Your lines of healthy dessert offerings I just mentioned make it possible, with my using the same strategic thinking and execution I used at Acme Corp, to market your desserts as part of a healthy diet because they're "made right." Moreover, Veronica, your leadership in driving Sunshine Dessert's North American expansion and your ability to adjust to rapidly changing market conditions is inspiring. Working alongside you would further expand my strategic marketing skills while making a meaningful contribution to Sunshine Desserts' continued success in the North American market. The combination of my marketing expertise, proven track record of success, and sweet tooth make me an ideal candidate to be Sunshine Desserts' next Marketing Director." I can't emphasize enough the importance of preparing your answer beforehand to the most common interview question, "Why do you want this job?" or "Why do you want to work for this company?" and practicing delivering your answer effortlessly, so you speak to the two factors that influence hiring decisions: reason and ego. ___________________________________________________________________________ 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

Artificial Dummies

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. What is all this talk about Artificial Intelligence? I look around me and all I see are a bunch of dummies. Yes, I say dummies because we go around being led like Ox. Price of gas skyrockets... We do nothing. Food prices out of this world. No one does nothing. Forget the thought of purchasing a new home. Unless you are dealing in drugs... Most on a single income can barely afford to rent. What is going on here.... Society sells us on convenience. Bull cookies... there is nothing convenient about getting out of your car in the middle of winter to pump your own gas... or to be forced to pre-pay. Really, how is that convenient to me? Not only that. You have to take a freaken course to operate a gas pump. This is ridiculous. I remember the days, when pulling in a gas station it was the highlight of the day. Two or three attendants would come out. One would pour gas. One would clean your windshield, check your tire pressure while the other one offered you tea or coffee while you waited. What happened to those good old days? Now you pick up a phone and no matter who you call. It is that brain washing forced conformation automated system. Press 1 and press 2 and press 3 and you end up on voice mail. Wow that was convenient. They call that Artificial Intelligence. Well, I pay someone to develop Artificial stupidity. A system that would be so simple that even a chimp could operate. A system that would always have someone answering the phone with a professional attitude and eager to assist. Not some third wold type barking language in an attempt to sound western. I don’t want the world. I want customer service. I want to be treated like a customer, not just some number as if in a bingo parlor. Oh, Canada. Where are thy...

Love Of Writing

from Wayne & Tamara I've been seeing a wonderful woman for about a year. We're in love, but I feel frustrated because I'm sometimes over the top in the romance department and she doesn't seem to respond. For example, if I write several paragraphs in an email about how much she means to me, I get a one or two line reply about something mundane like seeing me the next day. She says she's not expressive romantically but likes my romantic advances. Sometimes I feel as if she's the man, and I'm the woman. A lot of guys shy away from romance by telling their woman, "You already know I love you. Why do I have to tell you all the time?" I'm the exact opposite. I need to tell her and affirm her as often as I can, but sometimes I feel as if I'm a plain old pest with all my flowery stuff. How would I know if she's put off by all the romantic talk? Am I wrong to expect something she might not be wired to give? Emil Emil, let me give you three ways of looking at this. First, you are a writer who is looking for a reader. You are looking for someone who appreciates your poetry, but only a true fan of poetry can express that appreciation. Your girlfriend is not a true fan of poetry. It is as if you are a chef whose specialty is Italian, and she prefers Chinese. Or maybe it's this. You're giving her flowers seven days in a row and expecting the same reaction on the seventh day as on the first. It's almost as if you are making her dislike what you give her. Have you run her out of appreciation? Are you making her wallow in it? People like a little rain, but they don't want a flood. Or finally, maybe this is it. Part of what you find attractive in a woman is an appreciation of your nature. You want to be respected and praised for the way you are. That is also a negative element. Instead of this flowing from your nature, you also require praise for it. You want a certain kind of thanks for your gift. Poetry, when it works, allows the essence of a thing to show through. She may feel the essence of your relationship is that you are looking for a fan of yourself. You are trying to get praise from her without appreciating her. What do you appreciate about her? Is it the way she really is? Or the hours spent writing about how much you love her? What might she appreciate more: two hours spent writing a flowery email on your computer, or two hours spent dancing with her? If you require, for your happiness, appreciation of your romantic nature, then you must find someone who loves romance and can express it to you. They say opposites attract, but only when the opposite is appreciated for its difference. Tamara Fire And Ice I'm recently divorced, and I've found a great but not-so-great guy. We love old movies, working out at the gym together, and we think a lot alike. The one important thing is he says his heart is a block of ice, and he won't have a serious relationship with anyone. He plays the field. Yet he says he will commit to being a great friend. We watched movies together the other night, and now he wants more physically. He asked me to be his sex buddy. I've never had sex outside marriage. Yet he's wonderful with my child, fixes my car, and even does my dishes! Heather Heather, he is a block of ice, and you are playing with fire. The longer you have contact with him, the more likely he will get you where he wants you, not where you want to be. Wayne 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.

Treason on the Hill

By Dale Jodoin In recent times, Canada has found itself at the center of a storm. Concerns about other countries meddling in our election system have taken center stage. A committee is currently meeting to investigate these allegations, seeking to uncover the truth about foreign interference. This isn't just about election integrity; it's about trust, sovereignty, and the future of our nation. The Global Perspective It's not just Canada that is worried. The United States, Australia, and Europe have all shown signs of distrust towards Canada. In fact, a new agreement between Australia and South Korea aims to keep a close watch on China, but Canada was excluded from this alliance. This exclusion raises serious questions: Why were we left out? Who are the politicians behind this, and what price did they pay to sell out our country to India and China? Political Accountability Our current government, led by the Liberal Party and their ally, the NDP, seem to be doing everything they can to protect those involved. This protective stance has raised eyebrows and sparked outrage among many Canadians. Why are they hiding the truth? Before the next election, we must uncover the identities of those responsible for this treason. Treason is a serious crime that cannot be taken lightly. Historically, Canada has treated treason with the utmost seriousness, with penalties including life imprisonment or even the death penalty. The Gravity of Treason Treason is defined as betraying one's country, especially by attempting to kill or overthrow the sovereign or government. It's a grave offense, and in Canada, the penalties for treason are severe. Historically, those found guilty of treason could face the death penalty or life in prison. While the death penalty has been abolished, life imprisonment remains a possible punishment. This demonstrates how seriously Canada takes this crime. Despite the gravity of treason, our government seems intent on keeping the details classified. This lack of transparency is unacceptable. Canadians deserve to know who is responsible for betraying their country. We need answers, and we need them before the next election. The current government cannot continue to hide behind a veil of secrecy. The Role of the NDP The NDP, often seen as the puppet of the Liberal government, is also complicit in this cover-up. Their refusal to demand transparency and accountability is deeply troubling. Canadians need to understand that the NDP's inaction makes them just as guilty as those who committed the treason. They are failing in their duty to protect the interests of the people they represent. A Call to Action It's time for Canadians to wake up. We cannot allow the Liberal government and the NDP to continue to betray us. We must demand an immediate election to hold these politicians accountable. Treason is not something to be taken lightly, and those responsible must be brought to justice. The Penalty for Treason in Canada - To understand the severity of treason, let's look at the penalties in Canada. According to the Criminal Code of Canada, anyone found guilty of treason can be sentenced to life imprisonment. This means spending the rest of their life behind bars. In the past, those convicted of treason could face the death penalty, although this has since been abolished. This harsh punishment reflects the seriousness of the crime. Treason is not just a betrayal of trust; it's a direct attack on the very foundation of our nation. It undermines our democracy, our sovereignty, and our values. That's why it's crucial to identify and punish those responsible. The Shame of a Cover-Up What's even more shameful than the act of treason itself is the government's attempt to cover it up. By keeping everything classified, they are protecting the traitors and denying Canadians the truth. This lack of transparency is a betrayal of the public's trust. We deserve to know who is responsible for selling out our country. The Importance of Accountability - Accountability is the cornerstone of any democratic society. Without it, trust in the government erodes, and the integrity of our institutions is compromised. The Liberal government and the NDP must understand that they cannot hide the truth forever. Sooner or later, the people will demand answers, and those responsible will be held accountable. The Path Forward - The path forward is clear. We must demand transparency, accountability, and justice. We need to know the identities of those who committed treason, and they must face the full force of the law. We cannot allow our government to continue hiding behind a veil of secrecy. The future of our nation depends on it. This issue should serve as a national wake-up call. We must be vigilant in protecting our democracy from foreign interference. We must hold our politicians accountable and ensure that they act in the best interests of Canada, not their personal gain or the interests of foreign powers. In conclusion, treason is a grave crime that cannot be ignored. The current government's attempts to cover up the truth are unacceptable. We must demand transparency, accountability, and justice. Canadians deserve to know who betrayed their country and why. Only then can we move forward and protect our democracy for future generations. It's time for Canada to wake up and take a stand against treason.

A new show in Ottawa: the inquiry into foreign interference in Canadian politics

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East The recently released report by the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP) is the basis for the case of national security nightmares. The committee reported that when it comes to foreign interference, the call is coming from inside the houses: several parliamentarians may be working with foreign governments in ways that undermine Canada’s national security and democratic institutions. Notably, these parliamentarians may have unknowingly received donations from foreign governments, while at least one is alleged to have passed confidential information to foreign agents. Now the show is in full swing with a lot of people, academics, journalists and other luminaries, voicing opinions on the issue, in the guise of experts. Let us first acknowledge that the majority of past and current parliamentarians are not required to have security clearance. Moreover, when new parliamentarians are elected and undergo orientation to familiarize them with various aspects of the job, there is no mention, whatever, of how to deal with confidential information. On the other hand, the public service does require that their employees undergo security clearance. Do you see an inconsistency there? Therefore, in my mind it is very clear that incompetence in this area is rampant. Furthermore, it is unclear to me what is being defined as foreign interference. If there is a threat to our national security, what are the RCMP and CSIS doing about it, and why are they not doing their job? I think that foreign influences on the Canadian political landscape is not new at all, but suddenly it is front page news, and the subject of a new Ottawa spectacle put on at the expense of taxpayers. We need to be serious about this issue and stop focusing only on politically convenient black sheep countries such as China, India and Russia. There are many other countries that exercise serious influences in Canadian politics, because Canada is fertile ground for this kind of thing due to the nature of our national structure. If we look back into our beloved and ignored history, we can find examples of foreign interference, much more damaging than what is alleged today. So, the question is, when will our political class serve our national interest instead of serving many foreign and globalist interests, which is what they are doing today, in the name of defending democracy. It is time to serve the interests of Canada and not only their selfish personal interests. When I was an MP, my personal experience in this regard was quite interesting. Observing how parliamentarians and staff were dealing with confidential and secret information in and around the House of Commons was most disconcerting to someone who had security clearance. Documents marked secret floated freely in the lobby, where hardly anyone had security clearance. Being security aware, I was appalled to see that, as I had valid security clearance from my service in the Canadian Armed Forces and deployment on several missions overseas. It was especially frustrating when the Defence Committee I served on at the time could not carry out its study effectively, because we were told we could not see certain documents relevant to our study, due to lack of security clearance. In the current media flurry a lot is being said, a lot of articles are being published and a lot of opinions are being expressed on this issue. However, no one is mentioning the need to train candidates for parliament or sitting MPs on how to deal with confidential documents, and to require that they have security clearance at various levels. The word treason is being bandied about, and there are calls for the heads of the MPs involved. There are demands to disclose and publish names, but no one is making suggestions to the effect that we must avoid this kind of situation, and how we might accomplish that. Some academics, journalists and experts speculate that upon release of the findings of the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP), foreign agents and proxies, possibly under surveillance as a part of much wider national security investigation, would learn that their activities are being monitored. In Canada there are many foreign embassies which clearly have a mission to pursue their nations’ interests. Since they have diplomatic status, they are immune to prosecution. They can be asked to leave the country, but no more, because they have diplomatic immunity. It is true that many MPs interact with foreign diplomats, and without training in security matters, they might release sensitive information without realising it. In light of these shortcomings in the education of our parliamentarians, it is sad to see this kind of spectacle unfolding in Ottawa. It only confirms the fact that the RCMP and CSIS should do a better job and that there are more important things for Canada to focus on at this time. Let us hope that this clown world will end soon and parliamentarians will do the job that is called for, in improving the lives of Canadians. That they will finally become aware of the things that they should be doing in order to serve Canada’s interests first, foremost and solely. What is your opinion?

Old Sayings

from Wayne & Tamara I was recently involved in an eight month affair with a married man. My affair with him was not his first. When ending our affair, I swore to him I would not betray him to his family since I take responsibility for knowing what I was doing when I got involved with a married man. Although my decision not to betray him to his wife and family remains unwavering, I would like your opinion in reference to his wife. Should she know she has been deceived? I think if the tables were turned and I was the one being cheated on, I would rather know. Lauren Lauren, your decision not to betray him to his wife and family may be unwavering, but the truth is you would like to tell and make him pay. Revenge is a powerful motivator. A myriad of sayings apply to the three sides of this triangle. Four which come to mind are: confession is good for the soul, there is no honor among thieves, what goes around comes around, and knowledge is power. Why should your promise to him mean more than his vow to his wife? Why should the word of a woman willing to cheat be good? We are in a quandary. Should we support you in telling, when your motivation is nothing more than revenge? Or should we consider the wife's vulnerable position, not knowing her husband is having sex with multiple partners? Almost always we answer the letter writer, not other involved parties. We cannot protect this married man because his position is the least defensible. Being involved with other women is a betrayal to his wife every single time. But his wife, the person most in need of this information, did not write us. And what about you? Will you learn anything or change if you tell? Probably not. Mark Twain said, "Therein lies the defect of revenge: it's all in the anticipation." Revenge is cold comfort. It doesn't advance your life at all. That is one thing you could learn. Francis Bacon said, "A man that studieth revenge keeps his wounds green." That is another thing you could learn, but may not. From among all these sayings, which one do we believe is most important? Knowledge is power. Someone here could benefit from the information you possess. His wife. Go ahead and tell. 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.

Are Non-Alcoholic Beverages the Better Choice?

By W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford Do we enjoy alcoholic drinks? We do! A relaxing drink before dinner with our loved ones is standard practice. We are supported by a landmark study involving 490,000 people involving the American Cancer Society, World Health Organization, and Oxford University that found one alcoholic drink daily decreased the risk of death by 20 percent. Moreover, moderate drinkers have increased levels of the good cholesterol. Platelets, part of the blood clotting process, are more slippery making them less likely to form a fatal blood clot. Medically, for moderate drinkers, it’s a win-win. But irresponsible and heavy drinkers cause too many road deaths year after year. Excessive alcohol can also lead to family violence and many other societal ills. This is why non-alcoholic beverages need more promotion. But instead of providing the alternative of a stylish, healthy non-alcoholic product, the problem remains. Whether it’s quitting smoking, going on a diet, or vowing, “I’ll stop drinking while driving in the New Year,” it rarely happens. Failing to make the change can be a deadly error. Why? Because driving while drunk can kill an innocent child or an entire family – unthinkable consequences for such carelessness. Even without such catastrophes, drinking and driving rightly amounts to criminal charges and jail time. So why not embrace the alternative? No one gets hurt from drinking a non-alcoholic beverage (NAB). What are the advantages of NABs and why should we promote a new trend in drinking them? First, all the dangers of drinking are eliminated, including drunk driving. It’s estimated that the harmful use of alcohol causes 3 million deaths every year. Next, say good-bye to hangovers that cause three to eight times more absenteeism from work among heavy alcohol users. Hungover drinkers who make it to work are more likely to cause accidents leading to injuries. Heavy drinking also increases the risk of liver disease, brain damage, cancer, and immune system disfunction. Swapping the empty calories of booze for a low-calorie NAB will help with weight loss. But people neglect to watch out for calories in alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks alike, and sugary drinks, including many wines, are no good in the fight against obesity and type 2 diabetes. NABs can be loaded with sugar too, so to get the benefit, do your research before making your selection. Ask anyone who has decreased alcohol consumption and they will tell you they sleep better. If there’s been strife in the family from alcohol, adherence to NABs can restore happiness. And it will be big news if the trend away from alcohol to NABs results in a decrease in cancer rates. Switching to NABs can be a financial gain too. Even just a few alcoholic drinks a week can add up to over a thousand dollars per year for the consumer. But all this said, keep your mind open about the positive effects of alcohol. Alcohol in moderation has a relaxing effect that dilates arteries. This translates to a lower risk of heart attack and strokes caused by blood clots. As the saying goes, “Alcohol is for the elderly what milk is for the young.” For the depressed or anxious, alcohol isn’t the wise choice as a tool for coping, but a social drink with family and friends can be soothing at the end of a stressful day. Taking the personal decision to drink NABs can be frustrated by friends that insist on pressing alcoholic drinks. Social settings that traditionally involve alcohol, like bars and restaurants can also be a problem. Everyone will need to adjust if the NAB trend is to grow. Let’s hear what readers think. 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

Bell - Rogers

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. What is it with companies like Bell, Rogers and the many others? No matter who you call you get the automated systems. What a waste of time. I feel sorry for other seniors that are not very acute with automation. It is frustrating for me. I hate to talk to a machine. I have even more to have to make selections and press numbers on my phone pad. I want a live human being. Forget this Artificial garbage. Both Bell and Rogers, sure know how to charge every month.... The other day I called Bell technical support. I could barely hear the woman. I could hear chickens and goats in the background. I asked her. Where am i calling. She said, Morocco. Are you kidding me? Do we not have Canadians wanting jobs that Bell has to go to Moroco? After all the bullshit authentication. They transfer me to some other guy in the Phillipines. He could barely speak English. He was rude and abrupt. I sat there and wondered. Do we as Canadian have any privacy. Why is our personal information going to a place like Moroco. The Phillipines, Africa, Argentina and the many more places. Is this not a national security risk. To tell me that these countries have strict privacy law is nothing short of an insult and insanity. What truly gets me is when you get my good friends from India....You know right away as they call you using the wrong prefix. They start with, “Halo, Mr. Rosaldo.” Boom a dead giveaway. This is so wrong. Companies that make billions a year and they insult us by hiring third world. I have grand children that would appreciate those jobs. Then the Fed import millions of people from other lands claiming we have jobs but no workers... Bull.

Complaining How Employers Hire Doesn’t Help Your Job Search

By Nick Kossovan "Complaining is not a strategy. You have to work with the world as you find it, not as you would have it be." ? Jeff Bezos In a different reality, employers would: · Offer salaries dependent on the candidate's needs, not the job's market value. · Not use applicant tracking software. (ATS) · Reply to every application. · Have a short and transparent hiring process. · Not scrutinize your resume and digital footprint. Today's reality: · More than ever, getting hired comes down to who you know and who knows you. · Employers are skittish (read: cautious) when it comes to hiring, hence why they have long, drawn-out hiring processes with many hurdles to navigate. · Ghosting. (in fairness, candidates also ghost) · Employers are looking for the perfect fit and are willing to wait until such a candidate comes along. (What employers want to see and the stereotypes they expect are constantly shifting paradigms.) I understand why job seekers are frustrated with their job search and how employers design their hiring process. However, punching down on employers as if that'll get them closer to their goal, presumably to get a job, accomplishes nothing other than wasting time and energy. Job seekers need to know and accept their controllables and uncontrollables. Can't control: · The economy or the number of job openings. · How an employer has designed their hiring process. · A hiring manager's biases. - Whom you're competing against. Can control: · The amount of time and effort you put into your job search. · Whom you connect with and how you maintain your connections. · Your digital footprint. · Your preparation and performance. (Practice! Practice! Practice!) · How you cope with rejection. (Embrace the power of "Next!") Focus on what you can control, not on what you can't control. Where you focus is where your energy goes. You can spend your energy and time complaining about employers being unfair and not giving you a chance. Such complaints stem from a sense of entitlement and do nothing to improve your job search success. Complaining discourages you from overcoming the many challenges you're facing throughout your job search and breeds negativity, which manifests into excuses or believing you're a victim of some "ism." Complaining isn't a strategy or a way of taking responsibility; it's not even a way of getting what we want. It's a way of avoiding responsibility, blaming others, and trying to get sympathy without having to take action. An essay I recommend everyone read is The Common Denominator of Success, by Albert E.M. Gray, who spent much of his life searching for the one denominator all successful people share. Putting first things first was the common denominator. "The successful person has the habit of doing the things failures don't like to do," he wrote. Put simply, to succeed, you must form the habit of doing what others don't like to do. This is especially true when job searching. (e.g., networking) Job seekers tend to complain because it's easier than doing what they should be doing. Additionally, job seekers have expectations of employers, which, when not met, cause them to complain. Managing your expectations will limit your complaints about employers. Two truisms job seekers would be wise to accept: · Total strangers (employers) owe you nothing. · Employment isn't an absolute right. I can't overstress the importance of accepting these truisms. If you're feeling bitter or resentful about your job search, wishing things were different, or thinking how life isn't fair—any of this sounds familiar?—you're fighting reality, which, as Bezos pointed out, "you have to work with the world as you find it, not as you would have it be." Complaining is counterproductive and does nothing to help you land a job. In today's brutal job market, or in any job market, you need to be proactive as opposed to reactive, which is what most job seekers are. The difference between reactive and proactive job seekers has nothing to do with degrees, skills or experience. The difference is their mindset. Proactive job seekers base their expectations on reality. Reactive job seekers base their expectations on how they wish the world would be. Guess which spends their energy complaining. There are four critical steps in the proactive job search: 1. Identify which companies interest you. 2. Research the companies. 3. Leverage your network. 4. Reach out to hiring managers. There's too much of this: · 1,000 applicants answer a job posting. · 900 candidates sprayed and prayed and, therefore, don't have the required qualifications, skills, or experience or know what the business does. · 75 are "okay" candidates. · 25 are candidates worth pursuing. The Internet has made it much too easy to apply—spray and pray—which has resulted in qualified candidates getting lost in the tsunami of "quick apply applications" employers receive for their job openings. Job seekers have to deal with this reality, the world they have to work with, and no amount of complaining will change this reality. Save your energy for your job search. Job hunting isn't a totally unpredictable process if you're a proactive job seeker and understand that successful job searching and complaining don't go hand in hand. ___________________________________________________________________________ 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

I never thought I would be writing about this

By Dale Jodoin I never thought I would be writing about this, but the events unfolding compel me to address a serious issue: legal racism in Canada. The recent atrocities committed against Israel have set off a chain of reactions, revealing the depths of discrimination and cowardice within our own borders. On October 7, 2023, Israel was brutally attacked by Hamas, a terrorist organization. Over 1,200 innocent civilians were murdered, raped, and burned in their beds, and 200 others were taken hostage. Israel's response to this horrific act of war was to target those responsible in the West Bank, aiming to bring justice to the perpetrators. While civilian casualties occurred, they were never the intent; Israel's goal was to eliminate the threat posed by those who declared war on them. In the wake of this conflict, the Western world, including Canada, has shown a shocking lack of resolve and integrity. Our governments have become paralyzed, bowing to the pressure of far-left, woke groups who dominate universities and media. These groups, often ignorant of real history, have perversely labeled Israel's self-defense as genocide. This narrative is not only false but deeply offensive, especially considering the heinous acts committed by Hamas. Jewish Canadians are now bearing the brunt of this misguided activism. They face harassment, their schools are targets of violence, and many are afraid to leave their homes. This is not the Canada we once knew. Instead of standing up against this injustice, some educational institutions have capitulated, allowing biased and false narratives to be taught. These so-called educators propagate lies that align with the agenda of the far-left, undermining the true history and struggle of the Jewish people. The real cowards, however, are not just the radical activists but also the schools and politicians who fail to stand against them. Teachers who promote falsehoods and hate should not have a place in our educational system. Politicians, driven by the desire for votes, have shown themselves willing to compromise the safety and dignity of their citizens. They have abandoned their duty to protect and stand up for all Canadians, including Jewish communities under threat. In this climate of fear and misinformation, it is crucial to recognize and call out the systemic failures allowing legal racism to thrive in Canada. We need leaders who will have the courage to speak the truth, protect the vulnerable, and uphold the values of justice and equality that our country was built on. It is a dark time for Jewish Canadians, and indeed for all Canadians who value truth and justice. Our leaders' failure to act with integrity and courage in the face of such blatant discrimination is a stain on our nation's conscience. We must demand better from our educators, our politicians, and ourselves. We must stand together against hate, misinformation, and legal racism to ensure a future where all Canadians can live in safety and dignity. A Poem of Disappointment Oh Canada, where have you gone? Once strong and free, now weak . Leaders who should protect, now flee, Cowards all, who bend the knee. Promises broken, truths denied, Injustice reigns, and trust has died. Rise up, my fellow Canadians, fight, For what is just, for what is right.

Canada’s past military achievements and present disarray

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East As we celebrated 80 years since D Day, which marked a pivotal day in defeating Nazi Germany, and as we remember the sacrifices of Canadian soldiers on Juno beach, we may justifiably wonder what is going on with today’s Canadian Armed Forces. The status of the Armed Forces in Canada is bleak, due to decades of neglect by all governing parties without exception. Canada’s military is facing a series of problems that could threaten our standing in an unpredictable world without a serious infusion of cash and attention from the federal government. Canada finds itself in such a dire situation due to the dual bureaucratic and political culture in Ottawa. In avoiding problems rather than confronting them, they have resorted to "risk management" The approach has been to assume that things are not that bad and some level of risk can be tolerated for a few years. This, now perpetual bad risk management approach, has became dangerous because it has pushed off problems until it is somebody else's problem. But now, in 2024, these problems have come home to roost. They have become our problems, and they are literally kicking us in the face. Let us consider the recruiting hole, in which the Canadian military finds itself. It is deeper and potentially more serious than it might appear at first glance. In part, the problem is also due to all the new equipment the federal government has ordered, or plans to order in the near future. Just recently, Defence Minister Bill Blair estimated the military is short up to 16,500 members and said the Armed Forces' failure to boost recruitment is leading it into a "death spiral." However, the country's top military commander, Gen. Wayne Eyre, told CBC News in a recent interview that the problem is actually bigger than the numbers cited by the minister suggest. The shortfall cited by Blair is the gap between the Armed Forces' current size and its authorized strength, he said and it doesn't reflect what the military needs to carry out the new defence policy, or the demands of modernizing continental defence under NORAD. To meet those demands, Eyre said, the Armed Forces needs to take on an additional 14,500 people on top of the 16,500 required to bring the military up to authorized strength. These statements clearly reflect a dangerous disconnect between politicians’ perspectives and the real issues. In desperation and not entirely well thought-out, the federal government began allowing permanent residents to apply to join the Armed Forces in 2022. Within a year of that policy change, the Armed Forces had received more than 21,000 applications from permanent residents, but to date, less than 100 have been accepted. One of the major concerns for the Department of National Defence (DND) is that many foreign-born applicants must pass enhanced security screening. Seeing bureaucracy at work, the defence and immigration departments have signed a new information-sharing agreement that should accelerate the process of obtaining security clearances. DND has also signed a contract for new security screening software hopefully with more success than the ArriveCAN experience. The new recruitment plan for the military proposes a probationary period on all recruits while screening and other aspects are reviewed. Despite all of that effort, the new defence policy does not foresee the military returning to its current authorized strength of 71,000 regular and 30,000 reserve forces until 2032. Currently, only 58 per cent of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) would be able to respond if called upon in a crisis by NATO allies— and almost half of the military's equipment is considered "unavailable and unserviceable" — says a recent internal Department of National Defence (DND) presentation obtained by CBC News. Looking at the equipment side, the situation is worse. Politicians only seem to find resources (both financial and physical) to aid foreign countries, rather than ensuring the Nation’s needs. The air force is currently in the worst shape of all the CAF forces, with 55 per cent of "fighters, maritime aviation, search and rescue, tactical aviation, trainers and transport" considered "unserviceable." The navy is not too far behind, with 54 per cent of its "frigates, submarines, Arctic Offshore Patrol Ships and defence vessels" in no state to deploy. Canada currently operates a fleet of four conventionally powered submarines; the navy has proposed to expand that fleet to between eight and 12 boats. However, each boat would have to have at least one crew, and possibly two or more, to operate in rotation. The army fares slightly better, with only 46 per cent of its equipment considered "unserviceable." However, the biggest challenge is the shortfall in service personnel; technicians and support. There is also a funding shortfalls; lack of spare parts and ammo. The issue of military readiness has preoccupied the House of Commons defence committee for a long time but without much success or action at the PMO’s office. The federal government recently began reallocating funding, forcing some areas of DND to cut spending in order to pay for the acquisition of new equipment. The latest federal estimates for the upcoming year show $810 million will be shuffled around and $79 million of that money is coming out of "ready forces." Former vice-admiral Mark Norman, a former commander of the navy said he was startled by the numbers. "This is borderline atrocious," Norman said. "Readiness is all about measuring the ability of your armed forces to do what it is they're expected to do. And fundamentally, that's all about going somewhere and fighting. And, you know, it's a pretty dire situation when you're ... not where you need to be." In conclusion, we need a massive overhaul of how Canada does military procurement, and how we approach national security, but most importantly we need a prime minister who cares about these issues. Is the country ready for this? Your judgement. Let us hope and work for a summer to be proud of, with the Canadian flag flying high!