Remembering the Battle of Vimy Ridge 107 years later

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East As the world continues to be ravaged by the conflicts in Europe and the Middle East with the prospect of new uncertain times to come, Canadians are encouraged to remember the efforts of Canadian soldiers in World War I during those four bloody days in France, between April 9 and 12, 1917. It is important to remember that more than a century ago this nation was essentially created by the efforts of all Canadians demonstrating patriotism and a high level of civic responsibility. Today we need to demonstrate the same patriotism and civic responsibility to keep Canada the best country in the world to raise a family. We need to strengthen our nation’s defences as never before, due to the worsening of threats posed by evolving complex international factors. A couple of months after the critical battle at Vimy, another enemy, the Spanish flu, decimated the world, also taking a devastating toll of Canadian lives. Just having survived the Covid-19 pandemic, which tested world resiliency, the world is once again facing uncertain times, brought on by the escalation of the conflicts in Europe and Middle East. The current situation requires that all Canadians unite to care of each other like never before. We must rely on our own civic responsibility and sense of duty to overcome the black clouds that are enveloping the modern world. Let us now look back in history to the days of Easter 1917, which defined the birth of a proud and compassionate nation. We just celebrated Easter ourselves, but let’s not forget our compatriots who gave their lives to ensure better lives for us. As dawn broke on that morning at Vimy, close to a hundred thousand Canadians poured from trenches, dugouts and tunnels, surged up a slope and conquered an enemy position considered impregnable by its German defenders and, frankly, by Canada’s allies. This was the first time all four divisions of the Canadian Forces fought as a unified force. They planned and rehearsed, planned again, and they stockpiled vast amounts of ammunition. On Easter Monday (April 9), they launched the battle, and because they were so well prepared, the artillery barrage was said to be so enormous that you could hear the distant thunder of it as far away as London, England, a distance of more than 250 kilometers. It was a costly victory. 3,600 Canadians making the ultimate sacrifice, and approximately 7,000 being wounded on the 9th: the worst day’s losses for Canada in the war. Many historians and writers consider the Canadian victory at Vimy a defining moment for Canada, when the country emerged from under the shadow of Britain and felt capable of greatness. Canadians had done a remarkable thing and, they had done it with French, English, First Nations and recent immigrants fighting together. Vimy was followed by other Canadian victories, some of them even greater feats of arms. Sir Arthur Currie, Canadian Corps commander after Sir Julian Byng, the victor at Vimy, was promoted, boasted that he had won an even better victory at Lens when he persuaded his British commander-in-chief to let the Canadians capture Hill 70, forcing the Germans to counter-attack at enormous cost in German soldiers’ lives. Currie’s arguments for smarter tactics carried weight chiefly because of Canadian success at Vimy. The Vimy experience provided a pattern for future successes. The Canadians had rehearsed tirelessly before the battle. They dug trenches and tunnels and piled up tons of ammunition for the heavy guns that pulverized German trenches and wiped out most of the German artillery hidden behind Vimy Ridge. The motto for Canadian success was “thorough”. Nothing that could help soldiers succeed would be ignored. Digging trenches and tunnels and lugging artillery shells through miles of wet, muddy trenches was brutally exhausting work. The Vimy victory shaped a Canadian way of making war. Other nations might celebrate flamboyant valour or dogged sacrifice; Canadians built on the conviction that only thorough preparation could spell success. At Hill 70, at Amiens, in crossing the Canal du Nord and even by capturing Passchendaele in October 1917, Canadians could take pride in their “ever-victorious” Canadian Corps. The victory at Vimy Ridge was greeted with enthusiasm in Canada, and after the war the battle became a symbol of an awakening Canadian nationalism. One of the prime reasons is that soldiers from every region of Canada — fighting together for the first time as a single assaulting force in the Canadian Corps — had taken the ridge together. As Brigadier-General Alexander Ross would famously say: “in those few minutes I witnessed the birth of a nation.” Therefore, it is time for reflection, time to learn from our own history and act in accordance with what we have learned, in facing these challenging modern times. Let’s not forget! Are our leaders listening or hiding? Lest we forget

In nothing we find everything and in everything we find nothi

In nothing we find everything and in everything we find nothing By Joe Ingino Editor/Publisher Much like the truth is out there. In nothing we can find everything and in everything we find nothing. Truth is the absolete understanding of nothing through interpretation and understanding of everything. Something that is not achievable by the human mind as the constant struggle between nothing and something rage on through one’s existence. This confusing the mind in a web of moral entanglement based on environmental divide. Look at the human animal. From nothing we evolve to something, that constantly changes to everything around us. From our molecular structure to our interactions. Evolution in it’s ongoing expansion and disclosure of everything clouds our minds in a romantic coccon of confusion. The more we evolve the more we see nothing. Our confusion mounts to such levels that compromises logic and common sense. It challenges natural laws and impedes natural growth of the mind and body. Love and hate become one, entangles in something that gives meaning to people’s everything. This passion translates to the understanding of nothing in claim of everything. The human mind is limited to know nothing, yet profess to know everything. An impossible feat as one can’t exist with the other. We look around the world and bring to question. How is it that the people of a Nation can turn on each other. How can such acts of horror be committed towards another? The answer lies in confused minds that profess to know everything when in reality they know nothing. Some may claim that nothing is in part pure innocence. Others may deem it as pure ignorance. But everything could not exist without nothing. If this stands true then, we as humans may never achieve full knowledge of everything as we fail to understand nothing. Now, what is nothing. Nothing is existence and the need for the human mind to evolve. To create a reality that is governed by everything around us and rooted in nothing or as stated, ignorance and innocence. Look in a dark room. What do you see. Do you seen nothing or do you see everything. The darkness in the room is just a measure of our perception of nothing.

7 REASONS

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. When are we going to stop paying for politicians mistakes. You would think that with more people coming to the area. We would have more tax money coming in and taxes would go down. Not at the region. It appears that they took it upon themselves to increase the Regional tax by 7%. This means that a guy like me on a pension. I have to further bleed my income. I did not get a 7% pension increase. Then how is the government setting such a rate. They do not care. They make their 100k plus. This is not right. Not only are people starving and living on our streets. But these pricks think they can ignore the need and go 7%. The real bad thing is that the Region sits on 2 Billion or reserve. Here are 7 reason why the tax should not go up. Reason: 1. People can’t afford to pay mortgages, put food on the table. Every dollar is stretched to the max. They don’t get 7% increase in wages. 2. The minimum wage just went up a few cents. No,7%. How are people working 3 four jobs suppose to make it? 3. How is a 7% increase going to improve the quality of life? So far we paid 5% increase last year and have you seen any improvement? People still live on the streets and the number increasing. 4. How is it that the region can pass such a high tax without public inquiry. This is wrong. I say they should take a pay cut equal to the increase. 5. Why does the region sit on a 2 Billion dollar reserve? Are the taxes not to go for what they are sitting on? 6. A 7% this year, what next 10%. Is there a regulatory body or are we riding on a run away train? 7. People to many. 7% might as well be a financial death sentence. We the people are being treated like slaves. We are not part of the equation. The modern day slave has no recourse. What you don’t pay your bill. They cut you off. Life is not fair. I feel for future generations. This is not right and this is not the Canada I love. Politicians must be held accountable. Democracy is failing and politicians keep getting richer. Sad.

New World OrderRed category

By Dale Jodoin In today’s politically charged environment, the dynamics of power and representation have shifted dramatically. No longer do politicians solely vie for the majority's vote; instead, they strategically cater to specific factions, often sidelining the broader electorate. This calculated maneuvering leaves many feeling disenfranchised, questioning the efficacy of their participation in the democratic process. The focus has alarmingly pivoted towards a minority, leveraging their support to maintain control, thereby creating a pervasive sense of voicelessness among the majority. In major democracies like Canada, the United States, and Great Britain, a concerning trend has emerged. Political figures, whom we might liken to would-be dictators, implement policies that ostensibly dilute the majority's influence. One such tactic involves the manipulation of immigration systems, allowing an influx of undocumented individuals. This strategy is not merely about demographic change but is perceived as a way to engineer a voting base amenable to the incumbent powers, further marginalizing the traditional electorate. The weaponization of information plays a pivotal role in this new political theatre. Through what can be termed as 'military-grade misinformation,' a systematic campaign is waged to shape public perception and opinion. This form of brainwashing, especially targeting the youth, employs sophisticated media strategies to distort reality and suppress dissent. The mainstream media, often financially entangled with these political entities, becomes an echo chamber of the ruling class's agenda, undermining the principles of free and independent journalism. Control over media narratives is a critical tool in the would-be dictator’s arsenal. By proclaiming a war against 'disinformation,' these figures mask their true intent: to monopolize truth and suppress alternative viewpoints. Independent journalists and media outlets that challenge the status quo face relentless pressure, with their legitimacy and survival at stake. In this landscape, the media not only reports on the political spectacle but becomes an active participant in the consolidation of power. As this grip tightens, the once clear line between friend and foe blurs, with the enemy emerging from within the echelons of power. The irony is palpable – those elected to serve the public interest increasingly resemble autocratic rulers, with democratic institutions hanging in the balance. However, history teaches us that such overreach will inevitably lead to resistance. The very tactics employed to suppress and control are likely to sow the seeds of discontent, prompting public outcry and mobilization. The path to reclaiming democracy is fraught with challenges, yet it is not insurmountable. The populace, once awakened to the machinations of would-be dictators, can initiate a pushback through peaceful protest and the ballot box. The essence of democracy – the power of the majority – can be revitalized through informed and active participation. In crafting a fictional yet realistic narrative, this analysis serves as a cautionary tale and a guide. It underscores the importance of vigilance in the face of creeping authoritarianism and illustrates how democracy's erosion can be countered by the collective will of its citizens. As we navigate these troubled waters, the handbook on thwarting would-be dictators is being written by the very individuals committed to preserving the democratic ethos. The ultimate lesson is clear: power resides in the hands of the people, and with informed action, the tide of autocracy can be turned.

THE X FACTOR

By Joe Ingino Editor/Publisher ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States - What a week it has been. First, I thought it was an isolated problem. All week dealing with technical issues. It all started with our email service Microsoft ‘Outlook’. Pictures that would come in as attachments did not open properly. We tried every remedy, including the re-install and re-install. We ran the latest spyware software. The latest virus software. Nothing came up. The problem persisted. Then, someone reported problems with our social media platform. One problem after the other. Then, we had a transmission issue that only part of the server response was active. Now we had a four way fight. We could not receive attachments. We could not communicate internally. Our social media platforms compromised. We did not receive or could communicate with our server. Normally, when this happens. The rule of thumb is take a deep breath and watch how it develops. We have had numerous hack attempts on our systems in the past so we knew where to look and what to do. This was different. There was no clear evidence that anything or anyone was attempting to hack. As the day progressed. We found out through the news wire that other companies in the area experienced similar problems. As the day progressed, more and more cases appeared to surface. People on social media kept asking if anyone else was having problems. The problems included. Poor or no internet service. Lack of ability to send and receive emails. The inability to send files through social media. Other reports included ATM issues. Clients of various banks would put their cards in and the services requested would not be granted and their card returned to them. In one case, a woman reported that she attempted to call someone from her phone only to be connected to someone else. Another person reported the inability to save pictures and files to their computer. According to the report, the kept getting an error message. When these type of occurrances happen. We treated as a network problem. We called Microsoft, they claimed there was no report of outages and or problem on their systems. They did mention that the last issue they had to deal with was months ago during an upgrade on their servers. We spent Saturday and Sunday monitoring our systems. We made some upgrades and modifications only to have the same problems persist. On the eleventh hour we decided to create a new environment afar from our operating systems. All new equipment, all new software. After all that work. It took three hours and the problem persisted. At that time we decided to just waited it out. Something in the internet world was not right. Normally our IP is safeguarded. Our outgoing mail and in going have been with us for over 30 years. We suspect that somehow with technology not know to us. Someone or something is attempting to control all in and out data. This is alarming and dangerous. As a precaution. We pulled all accounts information and all personal data pertaining to clients and suppliers. We left the new system as vacant of any crucial information as we could. The more we look into the source. The closer we come to learning this new hacking technique. We will keep you posted. Let us know if you are experiencing similar issues.

Ontario 2024 Spring Budget

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East The 2024 Springbudget, titled “Building a Better Ontario” and released on March 26, 2024, builds on provincial promises made over the last year. It places a focus on infrastructure and healthcare spending while ensuring that taxpayers do not have to reach into their pocketbooksjust yet. Budget day is important for the government, but more so for the citizens that the government’s choices will affect. Cushioned in a lot of appropriate verbiage that we arenow usedto from the Ford government and Minister of Finance Peter Bethlenfalvy, the budgetlooks promising on the surface. "These investments and more are a signal to Ontarians of our commitment to keep building Ontario while retaining a prudent, targeted and a responsible approach to public finances," Bethlenfalvy said at a news conference. "We're not backing down from investing in what matters most and we are not going to increase costs on our people." Total budget spending has surpassed last year’s, making it the largest in the province’s history at about $214.5 billion. Close to $194.5 billion of that is for programming. With spending up for various projects, this is a real wish list of good intentions,however without any concrete anchor in reality. It is concerning that as a resultof this budget, forecasts for Ontario's deficit will more than triple from $3 billion last year to $9.8 billion in 2024-2025. This is the highest non-COVID budget deficit since former premier Kathleen Wynne's 2014 spending plan.The government justified the deficit increase as caused by slowing economic growth projections leading to lower tax revenues. Here we go again, experiencing the kind of overblown budget the architects of the current budget criticized so vehemently when it was a liberal budget. What remarkable memories eh? Last year's budget predicted Ontario would be back in the black with a modest surplus of $200 million by 2024-2025. Now, the expected return to balance has been pushed to 2026-2027 — the year of the next election — with a projected $500 million surplus.Do you believe in Santa Claus? So let’s take a look at the promises made in the budget. In total, the province is forecasting $205.7 billion in revenue in the coming fiscal year, and $214.5 billion in spending, up from $207.3 billion spent last year. Base spending on health care, the largest slice of the budget pie, will increase from $74.6 billion to $75.6 billion. This represents a below-inflation increase of only 1.3 per cent, amid an ongoing family doctor shortage and a growing population. To address the shortage of family doctors, the province will establish a medical school primarily focused on family medicine at York University in Toronto. With Ontario also suffering major nursing shortages, the government promises to invest an additional $128 million over three years to boost nursing student enrolment at universities and colleges. Key health spending initiatives include $564 million over three years to connect approximately 600,000 people to primary health care teams and a $155 million construction subsidy to fast-track the construction of long-term care homes. New money in the budget includes an additional $2 billion over three years for home and community care, a $200-million community sport and recreation infrastructure fund and more money for autism therapies. The government is also planning a big increase in spending to improve high-speed internet access across Ontario, with $1.3 billion allocated this year, up from $300 million in each of the previous few years. To help Ontarians cover increased costs, the province will extend the tax cut that reduces the gas tax by 5.7 cents per litre and diesel fuel tax by 5.3 cents per litre, until December. The cut, scheduled to expire on June 30, has saved households an annual average of $320 since it was introduced, the province estimates. More Ontarians will be eligible for subsidies that reduce their electricity bills, a move that will push the cost of that program above $7 billion. To support the province's housing plans, the government is investing more than $1.8 billion in two funds that will help municipalities build "housing-enabling" infrastructure, including roads, bridges, drinking water, waste-water and storm-water infrastructure. The province will also allow all single and upper-tier municipalities to impose a tax on vacant homes. Currently, only Toronto, Ottawa and Hamilton have that authority. A new policy framework will also encourage municipalities to set a higher tax rate on foreign-owned vacant homes. Municipalities will be allowed to lower their property tax rates on new purpose-built rental housing to encourage construction of those types of units. These moves are intended to speed up the construction of homes to meet the goal of building 1.5 million new homes by 2031.However, figures in the budget show the province is way behind schedule.There were 89,300 housing starts in Ontario in 2023, with 87,900 projected for 2024, 92,000 for 2025 and 94,400 for 2026, when at least 150,000 per year are needed to achieve the province's goal. The budget advances existing spending plans for highways and roads, without new cost breakdowns for the government’s flagship projects like Highway 413 or the Bradford Bypass. About $37.6 billion will be spent on the education sector and $40 billion will be put into “other programs” …and let’s not forget that Interest on debt takes up about $13.9 billion of provincial spending. This quick overview of the budget clearly indicates that the Ontario government needs to provide better information to the public on service improvements and when capital construction projects will be completed. This year’s budget leaves many questions unanswered,consistingas it does, of general statements on improvements needed and broad comments on what is being planned. On a detailed level, it is impossible to decipher how taxpayer money is being spent relative to prior years. It does not say what that planned spending will accomplish in the short, medium and long term, nor whether that will meet the public’s needs. The budget indicates that “Ontario’s Plan to Build” includes the most ambitious capital plan in the province’s history, with $190.2 billion over the next decade to support growing business, families and newcomers. However, additional information on expected in-service dates and projected costs for each major project over a certain threshold would provide more useful information. How will the government address identified public service gaps, program waiting lists, health service wait times, school class sizes, deferred capital maintenance expenditures, etc.? Rather than practical solutions, this budget has focused on the discussion of revenues, expenses, capital investments, economic indicators and general plans presented in charts and narrative form. This must change to put the emphasis on how precious taxpayer dollars are spent, and what results will be achieved, for which the government will take responsibility. This element is completely missing from the current budget. So now, let us see if we can expect something better from the upcoming federal budget. Keep your fingers crossed!

Does AI help level the playing field for SMEs?

By Daryl Ching, CFA | Managing Partner Vistance Capital Advisory Artificial intelligence has dominated the news with pundits suggesting that this could be biggest game changer in business since the invention of the internet. To what extent have SMEs been adopting AI and is it a game changer to the extent it levels the playing field against larger businesses? My name is Daryl Ching and I am the founder and CEO of Vistance Capital Advisory a fractional CFO, accounting and capital raising firm. I am a big believer in adopting technology to create efficiencies in processes. Working with SMEs, I am constantly researching the capabilities of AI and how it can help our clients and ourselves. Many SMEs have adopted AI into their marketing content. Andrew Crook runs PC275 Realty, a real estate brokerage and business advisory firm and has used AI to create graphics and manage marketing performance data. He spends about $1,000 a month for AI tools for services that would normally cost about $5,000 per month through a marketing agency or hiring internal staff. He also uses AI to generate content for business strategy sessions through his consulting practice. While AI has not necessarily transformed his business, it has freed many hours of time which has improved his quality of life and allowed him to spend more time with his family. Many SMEs have figured out how to use AI to perform administrative tasks. Ilya Peskov, CEO of Focus 21, an IT software company has used AI to generate transcripts of meeting notes, review grammar and spelling and review legal documentation to ensure all clauses are captured. As a result, Ilya’s team has been able to spend their time on less administrative and more value-added work. Olga Pawluczyk, CEO of P&P Optica has developed a unique smart detection imaging system to detect foreign materials in food processing. The entire premise of the business required machine learning and AI to create the product. Had it not been for AI, the task of analyzing a lot of information to detect foreign materials on a production line, at line speed, would be impossible. P&P Optica is an example of an SME that couldn’t deliver a product at all without the use of AI. While I feel the advance of AI technology is a net positive for SMEs, it is worth discussing some of the risks. AI is only as good as the information it is fed to make decisions. As more information is fed into the system, it becomes more and more difficult to validate the accuracy and source of information. I also fear the possibility that AI will have the effect of reducing critical thinking by individuals as they take results from AI as gospel. Ilya Peskov believes that AI has generated about a 30% savings in time for his coders using Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini. However, he recalls his early days in IT education where he used Stack Overflow and was required to learn grass roots coding. With AI, he is cognizant of a risk that at some point in the future developers will lose the rudimentary skills of programming and coding. As AI evolves, we believe that it can be a game changer for SMEs. However, it important to ensure that we keep AI in check, question the results, validate the sources and make sure people do not turn off their critical thinking. However, if used correctly, it can certainly help level the playing field for SMEs.

SHOCKED BY O.P.U.C

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. Just for Easter. A little bitter sweet news. Now don’t get me wrong. But when I say the world is finished. I really mean it. The other day. I had a $1,900. O.P.U.C bill I had to pay. I thought, Ok. I will go down to the office downtown Beirut... or it seems. As the roads are full of pot holes. Parking is outrageous and any given moment you can get shot by some punk or junkie demanding you give him cash so he can run down to Simcoe St. United Church and be saved by the local junkie at the corner of Simcoe and Bagot...Or maybe go to the free for all Back Door Mission. Where with my tax dollar these people can go and find refuge as they shoot up. Meanwhile here I am approaching the front door of the O.P.U.C. A security guard informs me that I can’t drop off the cheque as they don’t have the old mailbox they use to have. It was a great service to the community. NO MORE. I then approached to go in the building. The guard at the door practically body slammed me to the sidewalk. He informed me that you can’t go in and pay the bill. Or leave the cheque. I was floored. Where it the customer service? I then asked him how do I pay. He said you have to mail it in. Or you have to go online. I just drove from Columbus all the way down for nothing? Where is the customer service? It is like going to the City hall. Same thing. You are met up with a series of security guards. These guards are rude and forward. When you go in to the main lobby you have one option. Front desk. You can’t go up the elevator to any department. This is ridiculous. In most cases they direct you to a web site... a web site that is far from user friendly and extremely hard to navigate. The City can surely increase your taxes and demand you pay them on time. What happened to customer service? They treat you like cattle with the arrogance of what are you going to do. It has got so bad that the City does not advertise announcement. road closure, events in the local paper. The City elect are so bias and prejudice that only care about themselves and to assure they get elected back the following election. Disgusting. I am shocked at the OPUC, The City of Oshawa....

For better or for worse

For better or for worse By Dale Jodoin In an era where the world is a mosaic of beliefs, with myriad deities and doctrines, humanity finds itself at a crossroads, searching for a singular truth to quench its spiritual thirst. Amidst this quest, a new sovereign has emerged, not clad in religious garb or speaking in divine tongues, but robed in the authoritative vestments of legislation and decree. The proclamation is clear and resounding: there is but one deity now, and its name is Science, as ordained by the government. This new creed, the religion of Science, speaks not in whispers but in firm, unyielding statements. It transcends the traditional realms of climate, biology, and cosmology, casting its sacred gaze upon every facet of existence, from the mysteries of the universe to the intricacies of human sexuality. Its commandments are inscribed not on perishable parchment or transient tablets, but in the indelible stone of legislation, its every decree echoing through the halls of power and corridors of control. Gone are the days when Science was a humble seeker of truth, open to challenge and correction. The new dogma is infallible, a monolithic entity that brooks no dissent. It asserts that to doubt its authority is to dwell in ignorance, for it is omniscient, omnipresent, and omnipotent. This transformation is not merely a shift in perception but a seismic change in the very foundation of societal belief systems. The Church of Scientific Omnipotence, as it has come to be known, though unofficially, wields two sacrosanct scepters: money and power. Every scientist within its hallowed halls is a disciple, their allegiance bought and bound by the golden chains of funding and the heady allure of influence. They chant in unison the mantras of consensus, their voices never straying from the twin doctrines that fuel their faith and fill their coffers. As this new ecclesiastical order cements its dominion, it casts a shadow over all dissenting voices. Traditional religions, once mighty in their own right, now tread carefully on this sacrosanct ground, their prophetic voices muted by the threat of losing their cherished status and financial sanctity. The religion of Science demands not just passive acquiescence but active participation in its rituals of compliance and conformity. In this brave new world, the very essence of faith is being redefined. C

hurches and temples, once sanctuaries of spiritual solace and divine connection, now bow before the altar of scientific dogma, their doctrines aligned with the decrees of their new sovereign. The narrative is no longer about the divine or the eternal but about the immediate and the material, with power and wealth as the ultimate deities to be worshipped. The name of this omnipotent religion remains shrouded in secrecy, its title unspoken, as if its very utterance would unveil the facade of its sanctity. But the parallels are stark and unmistakable, echoing through history's corridors. Just as the kings and emperors of old wielded religion as a tool of control and dominion, so too does the modern state employ the religion of Science to command and conquer. Statistics and historical records reveal this cyclical saga of power: once, kings and pharaohs proclaimed themselves gods or representatives of the divine, their words law and their decrees sacred. Today, governments, through the mantle of scientific authority, enact a similar sovereignty, their edicts draped in the cloak of empirical irrefutability and their mandates enforced with the rigid certainty of mathematical precision. As we navigate this epoch of the Church of Scientific Omnipotence, the landscape of faith and belief is irrevocably altered. The divine has been dethroned, replaced by the deity of data, the sanctity of statistics, and the gospel of governance. Yet, beneath this seemingly impenetrable canopy of scientific dogmatism, whispers of dissent and pockets of resistance stir, hinting at a future where the sacred flame of inquiry and the quest for spiritual truth might once again illuminate the human journey. In conclusion, as the government's new religion of Science continues to unfold its chapters, we remain vigilant, chronicling its ascent and its impact on the tapestry of human belief. Its name may be unspoken, its full doctrine yet to be unveiled, but its presence is undeniable, reshaping our world in its own image, for better or for worse.

Spirits

from Wayne & Tamara I was looking for the miraculous "answer to my life," when I came across your column. I don't have anyone to ask for a neutral opinion so I am hoping you can give me some insight. I met my husband when I was 18 and started dating him when I was 21. In 1991, shortly after I moved in with him, he lost his license for drunk driving after a Christmas party. I always had an excuse for him. His parents were alcoholics, well-known in town for their successful businesses and lack of success in family life. Fast forward to three years ago. The kids were affected by our arguments and knowing "daddy drinks too much." One night my husband actually dropped our son on his head. I finally had it. I gave him an ultimatum. If he wanted to sulk about the past and drink, he could do it without me and the children. He vowed to quit forever and checked into rehab and did counseling. We moved to a new town with new friends. I don't expect perfection, but I do expect honesty and he can't tell me the truth. He claims to go to AA meetings in towns that don't have AA meetings. How can I respect or be intimate with someone who lies? On top of that he has an anger problem. Not physically, but sometimes I wish he would just hit me. As crazy as it sounds, it would make my decision easier. As I type this, man, it seems so clear. I have to get out of here, but I grew up not believing in divorce. Sharon Sharon, you say you don't believe in divorce as if you are saying you don't believe in ghosts. But divorce exists, and it exists for a reason. When one person in the marriage won't participate, and the children are being damaged, that is a reason for divorce. Even now you are excusing your husband. You say he lost his license after a Christmas party. Christmas has nothing to do with it. He was drunk. He is still drunk. There aren't any miraculous answers to your life, but there are realistic ones. You've tried patience, understanding, rehab, and counseling. It hasn't gone anywhere. Tamara Just Say No I seem to be in an impossible situation. I am 31 and never married. I work as a software developer and am quite happy in my current living situation. But my family is pestering me to at least consider marriage, even saying they can find me girls. I don't want to get married. I've never had a girlfriend or even dated in my life. I've learned to be content without any romantic relations, and I don't want to start. Even though I live a long way from my parents, they talk to me on the phone about it every day. This affects my ability to enjoy life, which is a big part of being single. I enjoy my freedom and don't want to give it up just because everyone expects me to get married and have a family. Is there any way out of getting married? I know I can be happy living by myself, and don't like to consider marriage and children. Dev Dev, we are not the property of our parents. At some point, our lives become our own. When your parents urge you to marry, remember it is not a wish for you. It is a wish for themselves. Sometimes it is easier to stand up for someone else. It would be a great injustice to any woman if you marry her against your will. Every day your mom and dad can ask you to marry, but they cannot stop you from saying no every single time. 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.

Some Advice Never Ages

By W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford After 10 books, over 2,500 columns, and nearly 50 years of writing it, some things bear repeating. This week revisits a column from three decades ago about how to prepare for surgery. Has anything changed? From that old column, “What would God do if He were a surgeon? If it is true God helps those who help themselves, He would refuse to operate on many, telling us, ‘Respect your own God-given body and then I’ll do what I can.’” Next came a case. “A 45-year-old woman underwent an operation for extensive vaginal repair. For this type of surgery, her surgeon warned her repeatedly about the hazards of smoking and her persistent smoker’s hack. Ten days later she was rushed to hospital because of sudden post-operative hemorrhage. Incredibly, she was still smoking and coughing convulsively as she lay in a pool of blood in the emergency room. Speedy surgery stopped the bleeding.” Then another case. “A 45- year-old diabetic weighing 275 pounds was admitted to the hospital due to an acute gallbladder attack. A skilled surgeon removed the organ, but a lifetime of bad habits began slowly to take its toll. The patient’s diabetes was hard to control and the incision in the pendulous abdomen became infected. Shortly after, the patient developed pneumonia, phlebitis, and blood clots in the lungs. Family members watched the complications multiply and the situation deteriorate. When the patient succumbed to overwhelming odds, the family demanded of the surgeon, ‘Why did this happen? Why couldn’t you have done something?’” It needs no repeating what that column reported next. Suffice to say, the surgeon answered truthfully that the patient’s weight, smoking, and lack of exercise caused the death. Let’s read on. “No doctor turns away a patient who has an acute surgical problem. But patients can’t expect doctors to work miracles with surgery when they haven’t given a tinker’s damn about their bodies for years. I think God would agree it’s time to issue an ultimatum to everyone. God and surgeons shouldn’t attempt the impossible. And patients should be expected to help themselves by shaping up.” The article then gave advice on how pre-operative patients can prepare for an operation, physically and mentally. “Surgery, like tennis or football, demands psychological preparation. A good start is to get rid of needless worries. Tell the doctor if you are overcome by a fear of not surviving the surgery. Of if you’re concerned about post-operative pain. Or confused about which organs will be removed. And if you’re apprehensive about the length of the incision, remember Abe Lincoln’s remark. He was once asked, ‘How long should a man’s leg be?’ He replied, ‘Just long enough to reach the ground.’ Incisions, like legs, are just long enough to do the job safely. “The main thrust of preparation should be directed at good physical conditioning. Some of these tragedies could be prevented if patients tossed away cigarettes before an operation or made a genuine attempt to control and lose weight. “My advice is to be prepared for possible surgery all of the time. This means having a lifelong respect for mind and body. It would give surgeons fewer gray hairs. Fewer families would be asking why post-operative complications occurred. And I’m sure God would be more willing to help those who help themselves.” There you have it. While surgical techniques may have improved greatly over 30 years, have patients heeded the age-old call to prepare for surgery? Doing so would give surgeons a much-needed break in tough cases. And starting early enough may even prevent the need for going under the knife in the first place 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

JUSTICE DELAYED IS JUSTICE DENIED

Tahir Khorasanee, LL.M. Senior Associate, Steinbergs LLP The adage "justice delayed is justice denied" rings true, but beyond notions of fairness lies a realm of profound economic implications. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the Landlord and Tenant Board, where adjournments and delays can wield significant impact, particularly upon small-scale landlords, especially amid periods of heightened interest rates, inflation, and economic downturns. Ever wondered about the true cost of delays in our justice system? Brace yourself, because it's not just a matter of time. Picture this: almost half of all Canadians, over 18, find themselves tangled in at least one legal snafu within a mere three-year span. Despite this, many of us feel like strangers to the legal labyrinth, left out in the cold. But here's the kicker: legal hiccups are inevitable—they'll knock on your door sooner or later. And let me tell you, they come with a hefty price tag. These legal tangles don't just drain our wallets; they put a strain on our entire economy. Take, for instance, the chilling fact that every extra year spent resolving private disputes can send our growth rate spiraling downwards. So, when it comes to the cost of legal delays, it's not just a number—it's the very pulse of our economy that's at stake. Enter the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario, tasked with arbitrating disputes between property owners and tenants—an institution marred by excruciatingly prolonged delays. A recent ombudsman report laid bare the staggering backlog of over 38,000 pending cases, with landlords lodging nearly 90% of the grievances. These delays wield dire consequences, particularly for small-scale landlords. Small landlords, often owning just one or two rental properties, can be particularly affected by these delays. When tenants fail to pay rent or violate lease agreements, landlords must turn to the Landlord and Tenant Board for resolution. However, the long waiting times for hearings can lead to significant financial strain for landlords. For instance, one landlord reported that his tenants paid the first and last month’s rent to move in and immediately refused to pay rent, demanding cash for keys. Another reported becoming homeless so she could continue to pay the mortgage as her tenants refused to pay rent. There are numerous other stories of tenants destroying the landlord’s property, making it inhabitable, while the Landlord and Tenant Board continued to grant these tenants more time. Once the Landlord and Tenant Board makes an order for eviction and unpaid rent, which is often done after several attendances and significant delays, that is not the end of the road for the landlord, who must then pay additional legal and administrative fees to request the Sherif’s office to evict the tenant and later, pay additional legal and court fees to enforce the judgement at the Small Claims Court. In essence, the burden of tackling the housing crisis is disproportionately shouldered by small landlords—individuals who invest a lifetime's savings in pursuit of a modest retirement strategy. This predicament is further exacerbated during periods of economic turbulence, where soaring interest rates and inflation inflate borrowing and living costs, exacerbating financial strain. It seems the current landlord and tenant regime downloads the responsibility of addressing the housing crisis on the small landlord, who spends a lifetime scrouging to save just enough to purchase an investment property as part of his retirement strategy. This situation is exacerbated in times of high interest rates and inflation. These economic conditions increase the cost of borrowing and the cost of living, putting additional financial pressure on small landlords. For most landlords, the Landlord and Tenant Tribunal only exasperates the problem. The Tribunal takes far too long to evict tenants who refuse to pay rent, destroy the property in the process, and refuse to leave without being paid a hefty sum. Something must be done about this – perhaps a good start will be if all landlords refuse to pay cash for keys and go the distance, getting an order for eviction and unpaid rent and later enforcing it in court to make sure the tenants pays their dues. This may be the catalyst needed for meaningful reform, which is long overdue. In a time of economic recession, the impact of justice delays at the Landlord and Tenant Board is more pronounced. It is crucial to address these delays to support small landlords who are an integral part of the housing market and the broader economy. As we navigate these challenging economic times, ensuring timely access to justice is not just a matter of fairness – it is an economic imperative.

100 YEARS AND WE STILL CAN’T GET IT RIGHT...

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 - It has been 100 years. It should be a time to rejoice on how great our City has become. All the accomplishments and all the great people living within our city. A time to acknowledge all the great talent. Instead, our city is in peril. We have never faced such poor living conditions. Such high taxes and such poor quality of life. People living on the streets. Open use of drugs. Our downtown a shamble. Our municipal government is obsolete. We do not elect on merit or accomplishments. We have a council that is played by staff to their every whim. Councillors rule of thumb is do nothing and you be elected next election. Look at the last election. Look at what took place this past week. The mayor, council and his chosen staff decided to host a 100th anniversary event at the Regent Theatre. No advertising. No promotion. Just friends of the Mayor, his chosen staff. To ad insult to injury. Mayor Carter announces the erection of a 100th anniversary sign in front of City Hall. Another white elephant. A sign that says nothing... non informative. Just the number 100. This sign according to the City was paid by staff. The city is yet to confirm cost and or who really paid for the sign. The City in it’s arrogance had deemed the City as not having a newspaper. An insult to every downtown merchant and every business person outside of the Chamber of Commerce good old boys club. Not to mention the Durham Realty. A testament to the corrupt mentality. How dare they deem the city without a newspaper, when we been serving the City and Region for over 29 years.... We do not bow to the Good Old Boys mentality. We bring a service of delivering news. This is the same city that paid with your tax dollars to magazines like SNAP, The Express. All Good Old Boys club members... I feel for our founding fathers... This is not the Oshawa they wanted for future generations. A council made up of retiree's that are only in it to fluff up pension. Realtors, that are enjoying the taxpayers extra cash. The un-employable... people that out of office. No one would hire them to clean floors. A musician dead beat. A man that is supposed to be in charge of the downtown core... A pretty boy has been third rate actor/teacher/self professed artist. To be fair. Amongst the hay stack there is one lawyer. From the bunch, I feel the lawyer has the most potential but is kept in a dark room at city hall. As he is the only real threat to real thought and opinion. Sad that the Mayor would have used your tax dollar to create a pre-elections photo opportunity to better his political position in he community. I wonder if his actions are not against the Ontario Elections Act. After all. The 100th rendezvous was kept pretty much quiet and circulated among his supporters. I feel for future generations as we are not going forward to a better place. We are going back to the old wild wild west. Days people feared walking downtown or wondering due to fear off all kinds of unknown dangers. Happy 100th Oshawa.

The economy, the working class and the upcoming federal budget

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East The Trudeau government will table its next budget on April 16, 2024. So it is time to take another look at what they intend or should do to redress our country’s economy, stop waste, and really look after the interests of the country and its citizens. Since first elected, the Trudeau government has escalated spending on new or expanded programs and services, financing it through government debt. From 2014/15 to 2022/23, the government increased annual program spending by approximately 75 per cent. If we adjust for population growth and inflation, the Trudeau government has recorded the five-highest years of per-person spending in Canadian history. All of this new spending has resulted in eight consecutive budget deficits under Prime Minister Trudeau, with six more projected until 2028/29. These deficits have contributed to an $867.2 billion increase in gross federal debt from 2014/15 to 2022/23. The federal government plans to spend more taxpayer dollars on debt interest ($46.5 billion) in 2023/24 than on child-care benefits ($31.2 billion). As a result, future generations will have to pay off a debt burden that’s nearly double what it was when Prime Minister Trudeau was elected in 2015. Let us face the crude reality. As the economic growth crisis deepens, the standard of living worsens. More to the point, the economy is now growing slower than the population, which is why per capita GDP is falling. The latest figures from Statistics Canada confirm that Canada suffered yet another decline in per capita GDP in the fourth quarter of 2023: the fifth decline in the past six quarters, the worst sustained drop in more than 30 years. Per capita GDP, after adjusting for inflation, is now below where it was in the fourth quarter of 2014, nine years ago. That has left living standards worse in the fourth quarter of 2023 than they were at the end of 2014. The result is an end to the belief that we are among the richest countries in the world. From placing sixth among OECD countries in GDP per capita in 1981, we have fallen to 15th place in 2022. We have been surpassed by countries like Ireland, the Netherlands, Austria, Sweden, Iceland, Australia, Germany, Belgium and Finland, who used to be poorer than we were. So what can we expect without a radical change in government policies; change the political class does not seem ready to even consider? Unless we find a solution quickly the economy will continue to shrink, and living standards will not be all that suffers. Everything they represent will suffer. A society that cannot look forward to a future of rising living standards is one that is deprived of one of the primary motivating forces of human behaviour – hope. Without the universal lubricant of growth, all of the divisions within a society – between the classes, between the generations, between sexes and races and regions – are likely to be more inflamed. What makes this especially depressing is that it is almost never discussed in our politics. Party leaders hammer away at each other over growth in the short term, though they can do very little to alter it. Long-term growth, which is more responsive to policy, barely rates a mention. What they think about the future of Canada is probably the farthest thing from their mind as they look for grab an illusive and short-lived imaginary power. For all the fruitless debates about macroeconomic stabilization policy, and which form of stimulus is most effective at raising growth in the short term, the long-term growth trajectory is blindly ignored. Yet it is the long-term growth of an economy that is really responsive to policy. Another major problem Canada continues to ignore is our alarming drop in productivity, which is closely connected to the extraordinary decline of business investment in Canada. Simply put, our workers are less productive than other countries’ workers because they have less capital to work with. Therefore, getting our investment rates up is obviously part of the solution. It matters, however, what you invest in, as much as how much you invest. The current trend in disaggregate and chaotic investment it is very troubling. While business investment in residential structures has roughly doubled as a percentage of GDP since 2000, investment in machinery and equipment has roughly halved, with our manufacturing industries destroyed to the benefit of other countries. Could this go some way towards explaining why our relative growth in productivity has fallen off so sharply since 2000? Have we been so busy capitalizing on rising housing prices that we have neglected to invest in the sorts of things that make it possible to afford a house? Over the last thirty years, manufacturing jobs have constituted a declining share of working-class employment. This is true even among men, for whom manufacturing employment went from a high of 20 percent of working-class jobs to only 13 percent today. Among women, manufacturing represents only 6 percent of working-class jobs. Conversely, jobs in sales and services have grown significantly over the same period. Today, almost half of the working class is employed in sales/service jobs. Among working-class women, it accounts for more than half. The trades continue to be an important part of working-class employment, but not skilled tradespeople with formal training, as was formerly the case. Today, it is mostly helpers and labourers who fall into the working class. Notably, immigrants are much more likely to find themselves in the working class than other Canadians, due to ancient and restrictive professional trade laws. Census data show that the longer an immigrant has been in Canada, the less likely he or she is a member of the working class. Fifty percent of immigrants who arrived in the previous five years found themselves in the working class, whereas only 34 percent—equivalent to the national average—of immigrants in Canada longer than 35 years did. In short, a member of this newly defined working class, is just as likely to be female, most likely working in sales or the service industry, and highly likely to be a recent immigrant. So major policy changes on housing, immigration, childcare, and education would show that our politicians are attuned to changing working-class dynamics and ready to fulfill the vision of a multi-ethnic, working-class coalition for the twenty-first century. Effective policies could help them enter the coveted and widely touted middle class; one that seems to be in decline at present, rather than on the rise. In conclusion, let us see what the visionaries of this year’s budget intend to bring to Canadians. “Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.” – Albert Einstein.

17.31 REASONS

By Rosaldo Russo Allow me to begin this column by thanking the Oshawa/Central newspaper for allowing me the opportunity and access to the press. Not to many if any allow an average person like me to tell the world what I see and think. In my opinion. The Editor/Publisher is a real upstanding type of guy. He shoots from the hip and hold traditional core values. My name is Rosaldo Russo. I came to this great country to make a better life for myself and my family. I thank Canada for everything it has allowed me to do and earn. I worked construction all my life. I know the value of hard work and honesty. I remember as a boy my father always telling me to work hard and buy land. So I did. I remember days when I did not have enough to eat. I go to work... but I did not wait for hand outs. I rounded up my pride my skill and my determination to succeed and went to work. In those days the only benefits we received was the fact we were employed. Before retiring I was the owner and operator of local material supply company that allowed me to retired without worry. Now that I have time to enjoy life. I look around me and have some concern for future generations. I see that the world is finished. Did you hear the great news.... The government is increasing the minimum wage to $17.31... wow... how generous. Are the crazy or what? Who can survive making $17.31 an hour. Do the math on a 40 hour week. You barely make to pay rent. Forget food. Gas, insurance and utilities. How is it that Justin can send a 10 million dollar target...oops I mean tank to fight someone else's war in the Ukraine. Yet, our own people right here at home are starving and suffering even more than those at war. At the least those at war know it is war and tough times are a coming. But here in Canada. We live like we are in war. A war, against our own stupidity. Now don’t get me wrong. I am not professing that all and everyone get a free ride. As some have become generational system suckers. People that have no drive to do anything or contribute anything...and sit by the mailbox waiting for the cheque to come in. I don’t mean those. I mean the poor guy that just got married. The guy that wants to start a family but due to economics can’t. I once asked an uncle. Uncle, Vinnie. Why is it you only had one child. He looked at me in the face and said. I did not want to bring someone to this world to suffer. I could only afford one child and I loved him and tried to give them the best I could muster. His words echo in my heart every time I see a young person. When I hear of the government pulling this kind of shit. Announcing $17.31 as some great feat. It makes my blood boil. It makes me ashamed of being Canadian. I remember when I came to this country. I denounced my home and native land. I pledged that if I ever was called to serve that I give my life for my government. Today, no much so as I would not give it for my government. Instead I would give it fighting my governments policy and agenda. Come on let’s call the election and bring back pride and integrity to this nation. God forbid you all vote Justin back in. God forbid.

ON BABY

o

By Dale Jodoin In the world's big problem with drugs like crack, meth, and heroin, there's a sad story that doesn't get told much. It's about the smallest victims, babies, who are born into a life of struggle because their moms were caught in the grip of addiction. Back in the '70s, hospitals were filled with the cries of babies who, right from birth, were fighting against the drugs they were exposed to in their mom's womb. These babies couldn’t stop crying because they were feeling the harsh pain of withdrawal. Fast forward to today, and sadly, this is still happening. More babies are being born facing this tough battle, and it doesn't seem to be getting better. People are trying to fix the drug problem by giving addicts clean needles and safe places to use drugs, aiming to reduce harm. But what about these tiny babies? They start life in a really tough spot, craving drugs they never chose to take. How do you help a newborn baby who’s suffering like this? Statistics show how big this problem is. For example, in the United States, the number of babies born withdrawing from drugs, a condition called neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), went up a lot between 2000 and 2012. This means thousands of babies start life in pain each year because of drug addiction. These little ones don’t just cry more; they have a hard start in life that can affect them forever. They didn’t choose this, and it's not fair. They are paying the price for a problem they had no part in creating. We often talk about helping drug addicts but forget about these babies. They and their moms need our help too. It's not just about today's drug problem. If we don’t do something, the next generation will suffer too. These babies grow up, and their rough start can lead to more problems later in life. This sad situation should make us think and want to do something. If you see a pregnant woman struggling with addiction, it's a chance to help not just her but also her baby. We need to push for more support for these women and their children. They need care, love, and help to break free from the cycle of addiction. In the end, while there are no easy answers, we must try harder to help these innocent babies. They deserve a chance at a better life, free from the pain and problems of drugs. Let’s not forget about them. They need us to speak up and help make a change.

Political suppression is a dirty game

By Lisa Robinson - Pickering City Councillor In a democratic society, the suppression of opposing political views is not only immature but it undermines the principles of democracy. We see it more and more each day how politicians are using their power to silence dissenting voices and manipulate certain narratives. Persistently engaging in a game of dirty politics, eroding the integrity of the democratic process. The longer we allow this dirty game to continue, the more we risk creating an authoritarian environment, that stifles open dialogue and debate which is your right as a Canadian. By now we have all witnessed politicians, at all levels of government who are so driven by their desire to maintain control, resort to abusing their power by taking fellow politicians with opposing views to the integrity commissioner or other authorities. This manipulative tactic aims to silence critics through sanctions and penalties, wasting taxpayers' money in the process. Such actions divert resources from addressing pressing issues that affect the public, highlighting a disregard for the responsibilities entrusted to them. Politicians who engage in suppressing opposing views often resort to manipulating words and context to control the narrative. They selectively highlight certain statements while ignoring the broader context, aiming to discredit their opponents and their character. This manipulation of information not only distorts the truth but also creates a false narrative that serves their own interests. Such immature tactics undermine the transparency and honesty that are vital to a functioning democracy. By suppressing opposing views, politicians undermine the democratic process itself. Democracy thrives on the exchange of ideas, open debates, and the active participation of citizens. When politicians silence dissenting voices, they limit the diversity of perspectives necessary for informed decision-making. This erosion of democratic values weakens the trust of the electorate and damages the very foundation of a democratic society. Citizens vote for politicians based on their promises to represent their interests and concerns. When politicians use their power to silence dissent, they disregard the voices of those who elected them. This breach of trust is nothing short of betrayal to the electorate and erodes the democratic legitimacy of elected officials. Fostering disillusionment among the public. When politicians resort to suppressing opposing views, they create a culture of fear and intimidation. This not only hinders the free expression of ideas but also discourages individuals from participating in the political process. A healthy democracy relies on active civic engagement, where citizens feel safe to voice their opinions and contribute to the decision-making process. It is crucial to hold politicians accountable for their actions, demand transparency, and promote an open and inclusive political debate. True leaders understand the value of open honest dialogue and debate. They have the skills to participate in and open themselves up to the power of constructive criticism. So for all those Politicians who are not mature enough to play nice on the political chessboard, may I suggest you move over and let someone else show you how to play the game with honesty and integrity. Everyone deserves the right to be heard. "Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head-On And Rise Above It"

FERRARI MASERATI PISSASHITY

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 - I say Bravo to all those that can afford a Ferrari. They are the ones that can drive fast but like to take it nice and slow and smooth... as to almost showboat their lifestyle. I say Bravo to all those that can afford to drive a Maserati. The ultimate in class and elegance. I say Bravo to all the salesmen that had the talent to sell want to be Ferrari, Maserati drivers a Honda, Hyundai, Toyota calling them sports cars.... Or in my new high performance category called ‘The Pissashity’s’. Pissashity’s are the ones that pass you on the highway at the speed of light. Inches from your vehicle as if playing some sort of video game were human life is not a factor. I don’t know about you. But, the 401 has become a death grind. Almost every other day there seems to be a fatal accident. As a driver on the highway, I can tell you that various factors contribute to the horrific accidents. Without notice the Pissashity drivers. You can tell that most of the Pissashity’s are young punks with little or no real driving experience. Champs on the computer in the make believe world of Grand Theft Auto. An arena that has the user crashing into all kinds of obstacles only to re-warp back to life a few seconds later. Very entertaining but very different in real life. I remember one evening coming back to Oshawa. These two Pissashity’s flew past me. Weaving in and out of lanes and passing people as if cars were parked. Not to long after they passed. I heard a loud bang and smoke. Well surely enough. The Pissashity’s were scrap metal. A horrible accident including various cars and a truck. People do not realize. Sport cars handle differently. They are design for particular high performance driving. Pissashity's are just average cars painted a sporty color. Some with modified suspensions and exhaust. At the end of the day. A Pissashity is a Pissashity. You can’t expect a real sport car with high performance suspension and 19 inch wheels to perform the same as an off the assembly block suspension with 14 - 17 all seasons. The other huge difference is power. Going fast does not mean your pissashity become a sport car or that it will handle like one. I remember the driving culture shock. When I was young I had purchased my first 300ZX twin Turbo. One of the first to come off the assembly line. I remember I had to take a course on how to drive it. A course that prepared you for all kinds of conditions and weather. Much like Porsche offers to some drivers. This was an eye opener. Going from a rusted out 1978 Buick Biscane to a brand new 300ZX. My Buick went fast and if it could talk I be doing 10 - 20 at Kingston Pen. Pissashity drivers. Please, slow down. You are putting your life and those around you in danger. Remember some day you may own a Ferrari, Maserati. For the mean time enjoy the Pissashitty in the middle lane like everyone else and for god sake signal when changing lanes.

Party Politics in Canada

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East We are entering the initial phase of a potential federal election that can technically be called at any time, but will most likely be held in the Fall of 2025. As such, the battle for nominations is already starting, with the political parties establishing their own criteria for selection of candidates, but in line with Elections Canada rules. Such battles are not without controversies, especially in the Conservative Party of Canada, which has a commanding lead in the polls at this time. It is tempting for many nomination candidates to come forward in the hope of being elected to the House of Commons. The results of a recent by-election in the riding of Durham confirmed the fact that the Conservative Party of Canada is doing well under the leadership of Pierre Poilievre. Conservative candidate Jamil Jivani, a lawyer and commentator, secured over 57 per cent of the votes in the riding of Durham, previously held by the former leader of the party, Erin O’Toole. Though the riding of Durham is a Conservative stronghold, in this by-election, it registered one of the largest margins of victory the Tories have had in the riding in the past 20 years. Jivani’s success comes as the Tories continue to surge in the polls, ahead of the governing Liberal party, pushing a message that promises to "axe the tax, build the homes, fix the budget and stop the crime." In general, by-elections are low-turnout referenda on the government’s popularity and this was, after all, a Conservative seat. Yet the historically-high margin of victory seems to confirm all the recent polls foreshadowing a Poilievre majority in the making. However, there is a danger, that the Conservatives might be passing their best-before moment for sending the Liberals back to a well-deserved term in Official Opposition, if not a return to third-party status. In politics, things can change rapidly and mistakes can be costly. Despite chronic Liberal efforts to render themselves unelectable by rolling out gaffe after gaffe over boondoggles galore while enduring global humiliation amid a carnage of fiscal ineptitude, there is a chance the seemingly inevitable Conservative victory is not yet cast in stone. The liberals having negotiated a pharma care package with the NDP, the Liberals should be able to retain power until the scheduled vote in October 2025 - and that is a long time for the Conservatives to hold a commanding lead. So far, it is easy for Poilievre to merely oppose everything, particularly this liberal government, but the need to propose a future Conservative course in government is where the rocks lie for his breezy sail to victory. Complicating Poilievre’s drift toward a destiny as prime minister is the risk that NDP support collapses and drifts Liberal. This could happen as nervous voters strategically aim to prevent the Conservatives from winning so big that they preside over a one-party Parliament with token opposition. There are obviously other challenges to be faced and one of them is the selection of good candidates. Here challenges are already arising in the form of complicated backroom dealings. If not handled properly, these will put the Conservative Party’s aspirations for power in grave danger. Recent examples are not encouraging in this regard. One example is Arpan Khanna, a lawyer and former staffer of Jason Kenney who served as the Ontario co-chair for Pierre Poilievre's successful leadership bid. He subsequently became the national outreach chair for the Conservative Party. He then ran for the Conservative Nomination for the Riding of Oxford to succeed my former colleague, then-Member of Parliament Dave Mackenize. In February 2023, MacKenzie criticized Khanna for promoting a quote implying that Conservative leader, Pierre Poilievre endorsed him for the nomination and the party was supporting Khanna's candidacy. Mackenzie believed it a violation of the party nomination rules based on the Conservative code of conduct. Anyway, on June 19, 2023 Khanna was elected MP in the riding. After the race, Conservative operatives accused the Liberals of racism for emphasizing their candidate’s local ties to the riding, in contrast to Khanna being an outsider. This is not an example of a fair and unbiased procedures for nominating candidates. Another example of this type of questionable behavior occured recently in the riding of Pickering Uxbridge. A young candidate for nomination with good credentials, who worked very hard within the party’s prescribed guidelines for potential candidates, was thrown under the bus by the party establishment, exercising quasi-dictatorial powers. They probably have someone else in mind for the riding, but that does not justify stripping a worthy potential contender of his rights. Should this kind of behavior continue, there is a danger that many people will become estranged from the Conservative Party, reducing their chances of becoming the governing party. It is imperative that the leader, Pierre Poilievre, be aware of this situation and intervene. Pierre Poilievre as the prime minister in waiting will have his performance judged more on clear answers than question period, and his plan for the future of Canada will be carefully scrutinized. 18 months (the likely time to the next election) is a very long time in politics. From the current high in the polls, the Conservative road to victory will start to get rougher and rougher. They need to aware, and beware of pitfalls.

PLEASE LIBERATE US

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. No matter the municipality the same putrid mentality seems to have infected them. Oshawa has to be the worst. You call. You get to no one. Or get the wrong person. Or worst, leave a message. One question that keep poping in my mind. Is the quality of life any better or worst than it was four years ago. It is obvious that it is worst. You have this idiot of Carter running around lieying to people on what great progress. What progress. He is allowing developers to rape our farm land. Wonder how much kick back he is getting. Well, the voters got what they deserved. You vote in a former crack head. You get what you paid for. One would have thought that he would clean up the core. Deal with the homeless. What has this pretty boy wanna be Justin did. Nothing. I hope that all that today voted for him and are suffering remember this... And next time don’t be such a jackass and make the same mistake again. Out of all council only one person was replaced. What a disgrace. Now we are facing a federal election. Pick Justin. Same old same old. Pick Conservatives... new same old same old just different flagship. Canadian politics are finished. It is not the ideology but the putrid culture of money and greed. We need a good leader in Canada....