Showing posts with label Chisu. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chisu. Show all posts
Saturday, September 13, 2025
Health Is the Good Fortune You Make
Health Is the Good
Fortune You Make
By Diana Gifford
When it comes to health, my father always told me that good luck is as important, if not more so, than good genes. Like genes, luck is allocated at life’s outset. Watching nightly news on wars, famine, and other disasters has always made me grateful to have been born in Canada. Yet, there’s something to be said for manufacturing your luck too. Sometimes the greatest good fortune comes not from happenstance, but from the choices you make. And among the most consequential of choices is the selection of a life partner.
People commonly equate getting married with happiness. But it is every bit as important to health. Research shows that being teamed up doesn’t only add years to life, which on average it does. It also means quicker recognition of symptoms of a health problem, a supportive push to see the doctor and assistance in getting there, and caring advocacy for best interests.
Former President Jimmy Carter, who lived to 100, credited his 77-year union with Rosalynn as “the best thing I ever did”. Comedian Rita Rudner said: “I love being married. It’s so great to find that one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life.” Herein, two commonly unrecognized elements of how marriage generates health: love and laughter. If you are lucky, you get both.
In addition to the benefit of living longer, people in committed partnerships recover more quickly from illness, and face lower risks of depression, dementia, heart disease, and even cancer. But the quality of the union matters. Stress-filled, resentful partnerships are like slow-acting poisons, raising blood pressure and weakening the immune system.
The healthiest marriages, in fact, are not fairy tales. They are long experiments in teamwork, patience, forgiveness, and stamina. Healthy unions generate happiness. But they also test the ability to recover after inevitable ruptures – little ones or big ones. In finding good health, resilience is more important than avoiding every risk. The healthiest people are not those who never fall ill, but those who rebound well. The same is true in relationships. A marriage that can heal after conflict, adapt through change, and find laughter in the middle of the mess is often the strongest of all.
Think of it like inflammation. In the body, chronic inflammation erodes health, quietly damaging arteries, joints, even the brain. In a marriage, unresolved resentment does the same. Forgiveness, like an anti-inflammatory, doesn’t erase the injury, but it allows healing to begin.
How do shared struggles strengthen your bond and lead to better health? Couples who weather illness, financial strain, or any kind of trouble with children often emerge closer than before. A new kind of bond develops from hardships. Much like bones that sometimes heal stronger at the fracture site, marriages can become most resilient at their breaking points. Unfortunately, too few people know this. It’s not taught. People give up, and therein lose a great deal.
It seems wrong to be overly calculating about marriage. Falling in love is so much more romantic than arranged marriages. But there does come a time in any partnership when it’s useful to develop skills of appreciation. Both individuals in a couple need to know that arguing about the thermostat can be an opportunity for expressing care for each other. Whatever the issue, when tempers flare, you’ll be wise to remember how much stronger the team is than the sole player. Years on, you won’t recall who ‘won’ the thermostat battle, only that you fought it together.
Don’t aim for a perfect partnership. Aim for a resilient one. Done well together, this is its own form of health.
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HARMS WAY
HARMS WAY
By Wayne and Tamara
My younger brother and his wife called me days before my first child was born. I thought they were calling to see if the baby had arrived or to congratulate us, as I made a huge effort to fly out east when they had their first child. I helped them financially as well. However their call was stressful and rude.
I never expected them to treat me so horribly at the birth of my son! I moved across the country when I was 18 to go to college. My mother, adoptive father and I have been estranged ever since. Our parents were extremely destructive, emotionally and physically abusive. So much so I was diagnosed with PTSD and suffered from depression for many years.
My brother was favored. I have been back east to celebrate his milestones, yet my family treated me like garbage in front of my fiancé, who they were meeting for the first time. In the years I’ve lived out west they have never visited. None of them—including my brother who I took good care of when growing up—made an effort to attend my wedding!
I did not understand how this phone call started so tense and became so draining so fast. When my husband came home, he insisted I get off the phone. I try to set boundaries with my brother, but he bullies me.
Later I sent my brother an email. I told him I love him and would speak to him after my son was born. The next day I was sent the ugliest most abusive letter from my sister-in-law. She attacked my character left and right, yet I flew out when her daughter was born, and we gave them thousands of dollars to help them buy their house. I’ve never mentioned that to them.
My husband and I took our only vacation to fly out and offer support when their daughter was born. I thought my brother and I were survivors who would stick together. I always thought of him with love. What should I do?
Bonnie
Bonnie, poker is interesting because it is not only a mathematically sophisticated game, it is psychologically sophisticated as well. Poker players say poker is not a card game; it is a people game played with cards.
In poker there is a basic rule known as the fundamental theorem. The fundamental theorem states that every time your opponent plays as if he can see your hand, he gains. While every time you play as if you can see your opponent’s hand, you gain.
With your brother, you are playing as if you have no knowledge of his hand. In fact, you have perfect knowledge. Give and he will take; defend yourself and he will abuse you. His strategy is no more complicated than that.
When you arrived on the planet, you were dealt an unplayable hand: an abusive stepfather, an uncaring mother, and a favored brother. At 18 you escaped, but you are still hoping to turn losing cards into a royal flush. A good poker player would tell you it’s time to mix up your play.
Is the way your family treats you just? No. Is it fair? No. Would a psychologist recommend you stay in this game? No.
A behavioral psychologist would say by treating your brother to money, time, and attention, you are strengthening his bad behavior. A developmental psychologist would say you were damaged growing up, so you must repair the damage to yourself and protect your children. Allowing them to be in contact with people who abuse their mother abuses them.
Game theory, justice, and psychology all point in one direction: minimize or eliminate contact with these people. Being estranged from your family is nothing to be ashamed of. No fault attaches to you. It is what you must do to protect your children, your husband, and yourself.
Wayne & Tamara
A Computerized Future - How Artificial Intelligence is Slowly Taking Over our Lives and Minds
A Computerized Future - How Artificial Intelligence is Slowly
Taking Over our Lives and Minds
By Camryn Bland
Youth Columnist
We live in a society in which technology is constantly evolving. Computers are working at record speeds, virtual reality is more advanced than reality, and flying car prototypes are being developed worldwide. The evolving technology which is most prominent is Artificial Intelligence, (AI), one of the most controversial inventions facing our modern society. Although it may have been invented to assist humanity, it has been turned into an agent of cheating, laziness, misinformation, and human substitution. It is no longer a way to stimulate and increase human intelligence, but instead a way to substitute genuine, human thoughts. I am not directly against artificial intelligence, as I believe it can and has contributed to our society in great ways, just as it was intended to do. Since the 1970s,
AI has been used in the medical field to improve patient diagnosis and treatment. It’s led to significant strides in language processing, improving the field of computer programming. It’s even assisted those who work in agriculture, engineering, and transportation. It’s been implemented in every google response, translator, and social media algorithm. AI is something that has changed our day-to-day life ways we would never expect, and that’s both inspirational and frightening.
Of course, the reality of artificial intelligence is more than just success stories; it is also filled with failures and threats to replace human behavior. One of the biggest concerns surrounding this technology is job loss, as AI begins to implement itself into every career field. It raises the question, if a computer is able to make a medical diagnosis, do we need as many doctors? If paperwork and schedules can be handled by a machine, who needs secretaries and administrative assistants? Any job with a repetitive routine, especially those involving information-processing tasks, are at a high risk, from paralegals to teachers to truck drivers. We are in a time where no career is safe from the threat of artificial intelligence substitution, and this reality will only worsen as time goes on. Another field which is being quickly overtaken is that of art and creativity. Computerized images, videos, and music are becoming more and more common despite the negative effects. In our society's history, it has always been difficult to make a living or even a side-hussle out of art; it’s always been seen as a hobby of childhood, not something to be taken seriously in the adult world. The artistic struggle has now been increased, as AI provides individuals with creative content at the click of a button. Any image can be created for their personal use. Videos can be edited or generated with nothing but a simple prompt. Entire musical albums can be developed, making music which appears to be sung by celebrities without their consent. Even writing is becoming a futile skill, as generative AI is taking over the industry. Authors, editors, instructional designers, and even journalists are forced to worry about their job stability, as the art of writing becomes more and more computer generated.
Artificial Intelligence also has consequences outside of the work force. Everyday, it is used to plagiarise, misinform, and replace genuine effort. Students use Artificial Intelligence to do their assignments, and individuals are beginning to turn to AI instead of genuine research to answer their questions. It prevents people from learning, as they begin to take shortcuts through every situation, refusing to work hard for anything.
Millions of people have forgotten how to live their daily lives without relying on a computerized assistant. We are living in a time where the easy way out is the normal way out, and nothing is being done to prevent this trend. Regardless of your profession, goals, and education, AI can be a ladder to success or a road to disaster. I am not denying the benefits of artificial intelligence; it was created to make a positive impact, which I still believe it can do. However, we now live in a society which over-relies on technology in our daily lives. It feels impossible to finish our workloads without the help of AI, and this is where the problem lies. We are disregarding human thought, and in the process disregarding human value.
It is now too late to turn away from Artificial Intelligence, to pull the plug altogether. However, I believe every individual must resist this technology in our daily lives. This can come in the form of creating your own art or supporting local artists, using verified websites to do research, and refusing to plagiarize assignments. Through these everyday actions, we can take small steps towards gaining back our thought process. We can take small steps towards gaining back our own minds.
Job Seekers: You Only Control Three Thing
Job Seekers: You Only
Control Three Things
By Nick Kossovan
Take a step back from all the toxic noise surrounding job searching these days. If you're a job seeker in 2025, you're likely feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, and quite possibly angry. Also likely, you spend an excessive amount of time scrolling through LinkedIn, reading posts criticizing employers' and recruiters' hiring practices and lamenting the job market.
Criticism is fair, but it's most effective when it is based on accurate information and constructive solutions, which job seekers rarely provide or present in a way that benefits the employer's self-interest. Job seekers’ frustration arises not from the job market itself, but from attempting to control things outside their control, often fueled by a sense of entitlement.
Job search reality is simple: job seekers only control three things:
1. What they're thinking
2. What they do and don't do
3. How they handle their emotions
Whether professionally or socially, when it comes to interacting with people, the inescapable truth is that your power of influence ends where the other person's begins.
· If they wanted to reply, they would.
· If they wanted to talk to you, they would.
You have no control over other people's behaviour. Whether someone likes or loves you is their decision, not yours. Changing the way someone behaves towards you or treats you isn't something you can force; it's entirely their choice.
To speed up your job search, you need to shift your focus from what you wish you could control (wishful thinking) to what you actually can. At the risk of sounding overly dramatic, there's no time in your life when the phrase attributed to Brian Tracy—"How you think is everything!"—is truer than when job searching.
What You're Thinking Right Now
Your thoughts shape your outcomes. If you want to change your life, particularly in terms of your job search, you need to start thinking differently. This begins with carefully selecting what you watch, read, and whom you listen to. These choices greatly influence your future thoughts and perspectives. Consume content that reflects the person you aim to be.
Job seekers tend to dwell on negativity. They convince themselves that they're undervalued and that employers are unfair for not catering to their needs. The more you complain that employers don't know how to hire, the more you drain your energy and distract yourself from what truly matters: your own actions.
What You Do or Don't Do
There are two types of job seekers:
1. Proactive
2. Reactive
Being reactive is much easier, which is why the job market is largely populated with reactive job seekers. They wait for employers to post jobs, even though it's well known that most jobs are never advertised.
What you do—or don't do—determines your job search success. I've yet to meet a job seeker who's doing EVERYTHING they can: create a resume that highlights their impact on past employers, fully optimising their LinkedIn profile and activity, including a compelling cover letter (not including one is lazy), being mindful of their appearance and mannerisms, and taking the necessary steps to reach out to people who can assist in their job search. All your actions related to your job search, especially those that employers will see and evaluate, must be strategic and intentional.
How You Handle Your Emotions
A person's ability to manage their emotions is a key indicator of their maturity and professionalism. Every time you choose discipline over mood, you invest in your future. Every time you choose mood over discipline, you withdraw from it.
It's the expectations that job seekers have of employers that cause their frustrations to turn into anger. When you face rejection or silence from employers, it's easy to fall into negativity. However, controlling your emotional response is essential. When you publicly display your frustrations and anger, employers see that you can't manage your emotions, which is a turnoff. Criticizing hiring practices, over which you have no control, not only wastes your time and energy but also damages your professional image.
Creating stories to protect your ego, such as claiming that ghosting is rude or that feedback is owed, wastes mental energy. Ghosting has become a social norm, and as to be expected, has shifted into the workplace. While ghosting is unprofessional, you can't prevent it from happening, no matter how much you rage against it. My take: consider being ghosted as your answer. Employers have no formal (keyword) obligation to job seekers; their priority is their employees and business objectives.
Stop wasting time and energy trying to influence what you can't control. Instead, focus on what you can: your thoughts, actions, and emotional responses. The job search landscape may seem apocalyptic, especially if you buy into all the negativity. However, by taking control of the three aforementioned pillars, you shift your perspective to see all the opportunities that are still available in today's job market. Focusing on possibilities rather than impossibilities will improve your job search outcomes.
More than ever, achieving job search success requires taking decisive actions, maintaining a positive mindset, and understanding what you can and can't control. Focusing your attention on what you can control is key to transforming your job search.
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Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned corporate veteran, offers “unsweetened” job search advice. Send Nick your job search questions to artoffindingwork@gmail.com.
RIP Charlie Kirk: The Centre Speaks
Are You Ready For Retirement?
Are You Ready For Retirement?
By Bruno M. Scanga
Deposit Broker, Insurance & Investment Advisor
Retirement is a milestone many eagerly anticipate – a time to relax and enjoy the fruits of years of labor. However, for some, this dream can turn into a financial nightmare due to poor money management. While every retiree’s situation is unique, several common mistakes can derail even the most carefully laid plans. Avoiding these pitfalls is crucial for a secure and comfortable retirement.
1. One of the biggest errors is underestimating longevity.
People are living longer than ever, and a retirement that initially seems well-funded can be stretched thin over 30 or more years. Outliving retirement savings, force difficult choices and the potential of relying on limited government benefits. A sound retirement plan should project expenses over a potentially long lifespan, factoring in inflation and unexpected healthcare costs.
2. Another frequent misstep is overspending in the early years.
The first excitement of retirement can lead to a surge in spending. Travel, hobbies, and home renovations are tempting ways to enjoy newfound freedom. However, this “go-go” phase can deplete savings quickly, leaving insufficient funds for later years when health issues or other unexpected expenses arise. A balanced approach is key, allowing for enjoyment while maintaining a sustainable budget throughout retirement.
3. Ignoring inflation is another critical oversight.
The cost of living steadily increases over time, meaning that the purchasing power of your savings decreases. What seems like a comfortable nest egg today might not cover essential expenses a decade or two down the line. Retirement plans should incorporate realistic inflation projections and adjust spending accordingly to maintain a desired standard of living.
4. Not diversifying investments is a risky strategy.
Putting all your eggs in one basket, whether it’s a single stock or a concentrated real estate holding, can expose you to significant losses. A diversified portfolio across different asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate, helps mitigate risk and provides a more stable return over the long term. Regularly reviewing and rebalancing your portfolio is essential to ensure it aligns with your risk tolerance and retirement goals.
5. Not planning for healthcare costs is a major oversight.
Healthcare expenses tend to increase significantly in retirement, particularly as people age. Unexpected medical bills, long-term care needs, and rising insurance premiums can put a significant strain on retirement finances. It’s crucial to research health insurance options, estimate potential healthcare costs, and explore long-term care insurance possibilities to protect your savings.
6. Finally, procrastination is a common enemy of sound retirement planning.
Putting off saving and investing until later in life makes it significantly harder to accumulate sufficient funds. The power of compounding, where investment earnings generate further earnings over time, is most effective when started early. The sooner you begin planning and saving for retirement, the more time your money has to grow.
Retirement should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, not financial stress. By avoiding these common mistakes, retirees can significantly improve their financial security and enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling retirement. Seeking professional financial advice can also be invaluable in creating a personalized retirement plan that addresses individual needs and goals.
POLITICAL DISCOURSE AND THE MANIFESTO BEHIND D.E.I.
POLITICAL DISCOURSE
AND THE MANIFESTO BEHIND D.E.I.
NO GREAT DISTINCTION must be made between events here at home and those from faraway places that have the capacity to touch our lives. Some issues are so large as to create contradictory opinions on matters of morality, separating us into different factions within our communities, our families, and among those we trust the most. We live in an age where one must decide – willingly or not – where one stands in a society increasingly divided in all things.
While it is reasonable to entertain different opinions upon subjects that affect entire countries alike, such as, for instance, the recent assassination of a social and political activist south of the border, it isn’t long before a feeling of moral oppression takes hold. There are unsupportable evils that become the foundation for cross debate, where individuals can exercise a degree of callousness that is all too often hard to reconcile.
Locally, we can expect elected members of local councils to ultimately share their thoughts on the killing of Charlie Kirk, the activist to whom I refer, and what that means for the future of public debate within City Hall or on social media. Not unrelated to this is the recent drive towards the “Elect Respect” campaign, which sees our democracy as being under great pressure due to rising public distrust with seemingly unrelenting personal attacks in political spaces.
Clarington Council voted recently in favour of a motion to hold their members to the tenets of the Elect Respect mandate, which includes rejecting and calling out harassment, abuse, and personal attacks while focusing their debates on policies rather than personalities. At issue is the need to build a supportive culture where people of all backgrounds feel safe to run for and hold elected office. Expect all municipalities to eventually jump on board in a similar fashion.
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Another potentially divisive issue has taken root within the corridors of power over at Regional Council, as seen in their recently released report entitled “Diversity Equity and Inclusion Strategy 2025 – 2029”. Before any of my readers come to an immediate conclusion on this topic, consider the following aspects of the report.
The introductory statement tells us the Region’s DEI strategy offers “…a stronger, more unified path forward: one that not only connects the important work now underway, but also sets goals, a shared vision and a long-term commitment to meaningful change.” It goes on to say, “This document is more than a plan; it is a framework for transformative action…”
There’s a great deal one could unpack from that text, however; my focus for now is directed towards the report’s “Glossary of Key Terms”.
ALLYSHIP, which is basically the active support for the rights of a minority or marginalized group without being a member of it. Sounds reasonable – but a look at the description reveals the following: “An active and consistent practice in which a person in a position of privilege…seeks to operate in solidarity with a marginalized group”.
EQUITY, a principle based on advocating ‘fairness’ for all individuals. The Glossary offers this interpretation: “Achieving equality does not necessarily mean treating individuals or groups in the same way, but may require the use of specific measures…”
EQUITY DESERVING GROUPS, being those who are seen as having faced barriers to receiving equal opportunities. The Glossary offers a very aggressive interpretation of the term, “Communities that…actively seek social justice and reparations.”
HATE ACTIVITY, which includes an assessment of the comments and actions by one individual towards another. Among the interpretations offered on this aspect, the report states, “Examples are: hate crime, hate propaganda, advocating genocide…”
There are far too many aspects of the DEI report to analyze within this column, however, it is clear the Region’s views on the equitable treatment of individuals within the community go much further than employment policies and the delivery of social services. The report is nothing less than a political manifesto designed to cast aspersions on Canada and a particular demographic that has lived here for generations – as though they themselves had just disembarked from a sailing ship onto North American soil.
This columnist has never been in a position of privilege, and my country is not a so-called colony, but rather a proud nation – Canada. The assertion by the report’s authors that it is somehow wrong to treat all citizens of this country in an equal manner is quite frankly, monstrous, and it demonstrates a repugnance towards what should be seen as true equity – based on universal freedoms, opportunities and merit. In addition, the word “genocide” has become a modern-day political weapon based on one of those unsupportable evils that are now used as the foundation for debate among the more radical in our society.
Finally, it is not and never has been the mandate of staff or councillors at the Region of Durham to include references to social justice and most of all, reparations among groups or individuals. The massive bureaucracy that is Regional government bears the responsibility to provide efficient and equitable services to its residents, and only that.
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To close out this week’s column, I’d like to comment on the issue of automated speed cameras, which have been in the news lately. During an event in Toronto, Ontario Premier Doug Ford was asked about speed cameras in Toronto that have been repeatedly vandalized or cut down, and he responded by saying there are other ways to slow drivers down. "If you want to slow down traffic at a school, you put the big signs, big flashing lights at a crossing area, and people will slow down," he said. "I've driven by speed traps that aren't even close to school areas. It's nothing but a tax grab."
The Premier is absolutely correct in his assertion, which comes at a time when many municipalities have become reliant on the cash windfall that has resulted in what many see as automated ATM installations on roads designed for a certain traffic flow. I wrote a previous column on the issue of speed cameras and the fact there is no data whatsoever to support their proliferation – and yet, there are those among us who still line up like sheep to advocate for more and increasingly invasive monitoring by Big Government.
Among this week’s topics, that last aspect is probably the saddest.
When Leaders Incite Hate, Blood Follows — And Pickering’s Mayor Just Crossed The Line
Black Is The New White
Black Is The New White
B.A. Psychology
Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers
ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000
Published Columns in Canada and The United States
Event though it is widely practiced across the planet against all colours. In North America due to the historical historical implications. Race relations are being
distorded and pushed to irrational compromises of that of which is obvious.
Take for example the melange of confusion at Trent Durham Launches Black Studies Specialization and Research Lab to Advance Equity and Community Knowledge. The fact that they are isolating one colour in itself is that not racist?
Is the agenda to educate or push agenda in the form of forced compliance?
The release by Trent continued: The Black Life and Community Knowledge Lab opens new pathways for equit focused education and research. A new research hub and Sociology specialization focused on Black knowledge, experiences and community collaboration are launching at Trent University Durham GTA, equipping students with the insights and tools to lead meaningful social and equitable change. ‘Meaningful social and equitable change’... Is that the agenda peaking it’s head as something positive for all colors and races? Or is it another way to say. Accept no matter what or else?
“With this new programming, we are working towards our goal to celebrate Black knowledge, not just in theory but in practice,” says Dr. Adwoa Onuora, an associate professor of Sociology at Trent Durham.
I think this statement is an insult to academia. For the longest time academics and intellectuals alike have criticized how post secondary education has become nothing but a business. Graduating people that are not qualified to obtain employment in the field of study. That some post graduate institutions are hubs for pushing social/political agenda in the hope to influece society to change it’s standards, it’s intellectual integrity. This Dr. Adwoa Onuora in my opinion is such a character. We as a people. As a civilization should not be celebrating ‘Any race or color knowledge’ as this is something that should be attained by hard work and education. Not some course and or handing out of degrees/certificates. We as human race are better than that.
Ontario’s School System on the Brink: Challenges in 2025 Introduction
Saturday, September 6, 2025
Quercetin Is Part of a Winning Formula for Health
Quercetin Is Part of a
Winning Formula for Health
By Diana Gifford
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, a physician, wrote, "It has long been an axiom of mine that the little things are infinitely the most important." If he’d had his fictional detective Sherlock Holmes investigate the mysteries of nature, he’d have found quercetin – an element of many plant-based foods that is often overlooked.
Quercetin is a flavonoid, found in fruits, vegetables, and grains, with particularly high concentrations in onions, apples, red grapes, berries, and green tea. It takes its name from Quercus, meaning “oak”. So no wonder its strength. Quercetin has powerful immune-boosting properties that help the body fend off infections and reduce the risk of chronic disease. It enhances the activity of immune cells like natural killer cells and macrophages, which are a type of white blood cell that surrounds and kills microorganisms, removes dead cells, and stimulates other immune system cells. It’s fair to say that quercetin plays a role in defending the body against pathogens and cancer cells.
Like vitamins A, C, and E, quercetin is a potent antioxidant, meaning it can neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells, proteins, and DNA, leading to aging and a host of chronic diseases, including cancer and heart disease. Quercetin is unique among antioxidants due to its ability to regenerate other antioxidants, such as vitamin C and vitamin E. This synergistic effect amplifies its protective properties and reinforces the body's defense mechanisms.
One of the ways quercetin supports heart health is by improving endothelial function. The endothelium is the inner lining of blood vessels, and dysfunction in this layer can lead to high blood pressure and atherosclerosis. Quercetin helps relax blood vessels, reducing blood pressure and promoting healthy circulation.
Moreover, quercetin has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation in the arteries, which is a primary driver of heart disease.
Quercetin alleviates allergic reactions and improves respiratory health too. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can help reduce the severity of allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. It does so by inhibiting the release of histamines and other inflammatory compounds.
A consistent intake of quercetin is possible with a healthy diet, but using a daily supplement provides a guarantee. When taken in combination with vitamin C, studies show better absorption of quercetin. This is why I added it to my new heart health formula in CardioVibe, including it alongside vitamin C, lysine, magnesium, coenzyme Q10, and l-proline.
But it’s not just your cardiovascular system that benefits from the combination. Diabetics and people with pre-diabetes will benefit. Numerous studies show that quercetin and vitamin C can help lower blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Brain health is another consideration. Both these antioxidants protect neurological cells from oxidative stress and inflammation, which may be part of the battle in preventing the onset and progression of Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease.
I recall patients who were perpetually plagued by colds every winter. They would try every over-the-counter remedy but never considered the simplest precaution—boosting their immune systems naturally. I recommended consistent daily supplementation with vitamin C, paired with a balanced diet. The next winter, no colds. Not only that, but their energy levels improved. One patient joked that I saved her marriage because she was no longer grumpy from being sick all the time.
Think of Aesop’s tortoise winning the race against the hare by taking a slow but steady course forward without getting discouraged. It’s this wisdom of thinking ahead and taking small, consistent actions to maintain health that will make the winners. Prevention isn’t glamorous, but it’s effective.
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contact-us@docgiff.com. Follow us Instagram @docgiff and @diana_gifford_jones
Copycat
Copycat
By Wayne and Tamara
I have been friends with a female for eight years. At first everything was good as we share the same hobbies and lifestyle choices. Over the years I’ve noticed she is selfish and competitive, especially with my girlfriend. She is the type who will see an article of clothing on a friend, then run out and buy the same thing.
Once she overheard a friend talking, then bought the car her friend wanted and proclaimed she had always wanted one. Common courtesy is less important than her need to stay on a par with her friends’ fashion. I find this extremely irritating. If you have bad style it may be a problem, but the fix isn’t to copy everything your friends do.
Which leads to my present problem. Recently, she wants me to dump my entire music library onto her device. Is it easy to do? Yes. But it has taken me 10 years to compile my music collection, researching music from movies and magazines, buying CDs, downloading songs, and spending days organizing the software. She has the nerve to ask for it as if it is no big deal. She does very little work for something, but somehow gets what she wants because she has no scruples about asking for it. Am I the selfish one?
David
David, people say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but that isn’t correct. Imitation is the sincerest form of identity theft. Your music is your soul. Like a diary, it is the story of your life, and like a diary, it is not for publication. Tell her that, and then tell her you know she will understand. People often put nice ahead of no. To their own detriment. No means no. It doesn’t call for discussion, debate or reasoning from the other party. If you let her engage you in a discussion, you will be on the defensive and you will forget what is best for you. Your answer is your answer.
Wayne & Tamara
A Cliffhanger
I have been involved with a married woman for six months. I know her husband through an organization he runs, and I began speaking to his wife online. She is very outgoing, and we began instant messaging. Most of the talks were friendly and comical, and I told her I liked her.
Eventually we met and upon being alone, ended up making out. Neither of us can be blamed for what happened because we both kind of pushed the issue. I am a very realistic person, and I’m guessing she doesn’t love me like I love her.
With her husband she has two children. I know she’s not stupid enough to diminish her self-interest because her situation now is far better than it would be with me. I’m looking into justification for my next action. I love her. I know she doesn’t want to be caught, and I’m wondering if it’s best to walk away, or to increase the chances she will be caught.
Martin
Martin, you say she is not to blame and you are not to blame. We agree. You are both to blame.
Look at what’s going on. She’s the one with the power, and she’s not going to leave her husband. The only power you have is the power to punish her. You think, if her husband catches her, he will divorce her. Then she will come to you. That’s not likely. If you expose her, she will blame you.
You are counting on divorce as the recognized penalty for adultery, rather than thinking, “I should not be doing this and neither should she.” You created this imbroglio. Rather than looking for someone free to be with you, you took a shortcut through a back alley. Now you’ve hit upon a spiteful solution so distant from love it is hair-raising.
Wayne & Tamara
The Uniform of Popularity The Teenage Pressure to Fit In and its Consequences on Mental Health
The Uniform of Popularity
The Teenage Pressure to Fit In and
its Consequences on Mental Health
By Camryn Bland
Youth Columnist
Every individual is unique in their own, interesting way. Through our appearances, talents, and personalities, each human is a snowflake, distinct from one another. Yet, we often hide our differences in order to appear similar to others. This behavior is most prominent in high school, where popularity and acceptance feels most prominent. Teenage years are often the height of insecurity, when we feel isolated, disliked, and misunderstood. To feel more popular, teens decide to change themselves in whichever way necessary to fit in; they may alter their clothes, hair, or even passions.
Although this may seem socially beneficial, in reality it causes more issues for the individual and can significantly damage their mental health.
When teens compress their individuality, trends begin to surface in practically every teenager.
There seems to be a self-inflicted uniform for those who are “likeable.” Boys wear all-black, baggy clothes and have identical hairstyles. Most girls straightened their hair, wear similar clothes, and do the same makeup style. High schools seem void of unique personalities, instead filled with cookie-cutter students mimicking popularity.
This constriction applies to more than popular students. Secondary education is commonly known for its challenging social life and complicated cliques, which makes finding trustworthy friends a laborious task for any individual. A student may not feel smart enough to befriend traditional nerds, or athletic enough to play with classic jocks.
No matter where one goes and who they choose to associate with, they may always feel misplaced; this again leads to a shift in identity. It’s a system of change and stress, one that feels impossible to overcome.
Although these patterns may seem like an insignificant scene from Mean Girls, (2004), it is a much larger issue than you’d originally expect. Today's youth are no longer choosing to express themselves, instead conforming with others. This significantly harms mental health, as adolescents lack confidence and experience a
misunderstood sense of identity. How many changes do we need to make until we realize there’s a stranger in the mirror? How long until we notice the individual with a different style, different morals, and different identity?
For the entirety of high school, fitting in seems to be the most significant aspect of life; however, this is far from the truth. The all-consuming stress of popularity and social acceptance begins to fade once graduation arrives. In the adult world, your true character is far more important than the friends you had in high school or the attention you received in a crowded hallway. What once felt like the center of your life is revealed to be a temporary distraction when compared to the opportunities and challenges that come after graduation.
As simple and elementary as it may seem, the solution to this dilemma is to be yourself. Wear what you feel confident in, and spend your time doing what makes you happy. Work hard towards personal goals and act aligned with your morals. Popularity may reward similarity, but life beyond it celebrates difference. Genuine relationships, opportunities, and individuality come once you stand out in a way that feels true to who you are. Only through this uniqueness can you be accepted for your true self.
7 Hard Truths That Will Help Your Job Search (Once You Accept Them)
7 Hard Truths That Will Help Your Job Search
(Once You Accept Them)
By Nick Kossovan
As a constant reminder of my place in the world above my desk, I display this quote by Ayn Rand: "You can avoid reality, but you cannot avoid the consequences of avoiding reality." I'm also partial to Jack Welch, having said, "Face reality as it is, not as it was or wish it to be."
The essence of job searching is finding your place in the world where you're accepted; therefore, it involves navigating the world (read: people) as it is, not as you wish it to be or feel entitled to.
Avoiding job search truisms is why many job seekers experience a prolonged search.
The shortcut to shortening your job search: Stop ignoring truisms that won't change, no matter how much you complain, get frustrated and angry over, or wish weren't true. Spend 15 minutes reading LinkedIn posts and comments, and you'll see job seekers refusing to accept truisms like the following:
1. Employers don't owe job seekers anything.
"Don't believe the world owes you a living; the world owes you nothing–it was here first." - Robert Jobes Burdette
Job seekers who have the expectation, likely fueled by a sense of entitlement, that employers owe them (e.g., an easy hiring process, a chance, a job, and feedback) are the reason for all the frustration and anger in the job market. Ideally, a job seeker should have minimal expectations.
In my opinion, employers owe four things to those who apply to their job postings.
1. Don't misrepresent the work.
2. Treat candidates as if they are a customer.
3. Recognize that interviews are a two-way street.
4. Inform candidates if they're not selected.
Do all employers do the above-mentioned? Of course not. Can I do anything about this? No. Based on my experience, if you want to become an outcast and live a life filled with anxiety, frustration, and anger, try changing people.
2. Employers are risk-averse.
Hiring involves assuming a liability risk. Candidates often, without realizing it, present themselves in a way that gives employers the impression that hiring them would be risky. For the most part, hiring comes down to selecting the candidate who appears to be the least risky; hence, you can never go wrong by focusing on coming across as someone who'll be easy to manage.
3. Employers hire results, not opinions.
Every job exists to achieve results that the employer's business needs to maintain its existence. Yet, I still see resumes and LinkedIn profiles void of quantifying numbers, which begs the question, "What tangible results has this person achieved for their employers? If employers aren't reaching out to you, they probably don't see that you were valuable to your previous employers and therefore won't be to them.
Throughout your job search, communicate your numbers as proof of your impact on your previous employer's business.
· Signed up no fewer than 120 new subscribers in each quarter of 2024
· Solicited 12 new donors in the first half of 2023 for $4.2 million in additional revenue
· In 2024, produced 40 product videos that generated over 7M impressions
4. Image is everything.
Your image is crucial to your job search success. Your image matters because it's about trust. It's your responsibility to take control of the first impression you make and your ongoing image, which reflects who you are and your qualities. Thanks to social media, we judge people more than ever by their appearance; therefore, take your appearance seriously, as it determines whether you'll be accepted or not.
5. Being likeable supersedes your skills and experience.
I've never met a hiring manager who hired a candidate they didn't like; therefore, a job seeker's most valuable asset is being likeable. A job search is a people-contact activity, so work on your personality. Bar none, the best book on how to make others like you is Dale Carnegie's How to Win Friends and Influence People; it's the psychopath's Bible, but in a good way.
6. Employers own their hiring process.
Employers own their business, and therefore, they own how they design their hiring process. Just because an employer's hiring process doesn't work for the job seeker doesn't mean it doesn't work for the employer. The hiring system isn't broken; employers are getting the candidates they need—if they weren't, they'd change their hiring process.
An aside thought: When a job seeker makes it through an employer's hiring process, do they still think it's "unfair"? Of course not! As soon as they get a job, they stop complaining on LinkedIn about how employers don't know how to hire. When you criticize employers while unemployed and stop once you're employed, you're being hypocritical.
7. Pursuing remote jobs lengthens your job search.
As remote jobs decline, serious job seekers acknowledge that there is less competition for on-site jobs than for remote ones, and that since the employer pays the salary, they have the right to decide where the work is to be performed.
Accepting job search truisms—fundamental facts—and applying them to your job search efforts, like filling your resume and LinkedIn profile with measurable achievements and letting go of any sense of entitlement, is how you become a candidate employers will say "Yes!" to.
___________________________________________________________________________
Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned corporate veteran, offers “unsweetened” job search advice. Send Nick your job search questions to artoffindingwork@gmail.com.
Multiculturalism at a Crossroads: How Much Is Too Much?
Multiculturalism at a Crossroads:
How Much Is Too Much?
By Dale Jodoin
Immigration has always been a difficult subject. In recent weeks, news stories from Great Britain, France, and other countries have been filled with arguments over one simple but heavy question: how many immigrants is too many? At what point does a country reach a tipping point where new arrivals no longer blend into the culture but start to reshape it in ways people didn’t ask for?
Canada is often held up as the shining example of multiculturalism. For decades, we’ve called ourselves a multicultural country. The meaning of that has usually been clear: Canada has its own culture, but we welcome newcomers to share parts of theirs with us. It’s why you can eat Indian curry one night, Jamaican jerk chicken the next, and pierogis the night after. It’s why Toronto is famous for being one of the most diverse cities on earth. But lately, the question has become sharper: what happens when multiculturalism starts to mean not “sharing” but “replacing”?
Accepting Some, Not All
When we talk about multiculturalism, most Canadians think of food, music, art, and language. Those are parts of culture we gladly accept. They enrich us. But culture is more than food and music. Culture also includes traditions, laws, and beliefs about family and honour. And here lies the problem.
Some cultural practices don’t fit with Canadian values. Take the tragic issue of so-called “honour killings.” These happen when a daughter refuses to follow family orders, such as marrying a man chosen for her in the old country. There have been cases where young women in Canada have been murdered by their own families for disobeying. The excuse given is that it’s part of “their culture.” But Canadians look at this with horror. Murder is murder.
India offers another example. For centuries, some groups were labelled “untouchables,” a caste so low that others wouldn’t go near them. That practice was based on tradition, but it created a society divided by hate. Should a country like Canada, which believes in equality, ever accept that?
Multiculturalism should never mean importing systems of hate, class division, or violence. It should mean sharing the best parts of cultures, while leaving the worst behind.
When Old Conflicts Travel
One of the biggest worries people have is that immigrants don’t just bring food, festivals, or hard work. Sometimes, they bring old hatreds from their homelands. Civil wars, religious feuds, and tribal rivalries don’t always stay in the past. When large groups of people from the same background arrive, they can recreate the same divisions here. Instead of adopting Canada, they demand Canada adopt them.
We see this in Europe right now. In France, large protests have broken out because of tension between immigrant groups and the native population. In Britain, debates over grooming gangs groups of men targeting young girls have shaken communities. The problem is not with all immigrants, but with certain networks that bring cultural practices which clash directly with Western laws and values.
This raises a hard question for Canadians: are we prepared for the same thing?
Why Canada, Not Their Neighbours?
There’s another twist. Many of the people who come to Canada are not welcome in other countries near their homeland. Across much of the Middle East, for example, certain religious minorities are persecuted. In some cases, they are even killed. They flee to the West because it is safe. Canada gives them a new start.
But then, instead of fully embracing Canadian life, some demand Canada reshape itself around their old ways. This frustrates Canadians who feel they are being forced to change the very culture that gave these newcomers safety in the first place.
Drawing the Line
So where should Canada draw the line? That’s the heart of the debate. It’s not about rejecting all immigration. Most Canadians support newcomers who come to work hard, follow the law, and contribute to society. Our economy needs immigration. But Canadians are also saying clearly that some parts of other cultures don’t belong here.
No country should allow practices like forced marriage, grooming gangs, caste divisions, or honour killings. Those are not “cultural differences.” They are crimes. If a person insists that their “culture” gives them the right to do these things, Canada has every right to deport them. Multiculturalism doesn’t mean tolerating the intolerable.
Becoming Tribal
The risk, if we ignore this, is that Canada becomes tribal. Instead of one country with many backgrounds, we end up with many countries inside one border. Each group follows its own rules. Each group defends its own grievances. That isn’t unity, it's division. And division can turn violent.
Already, words are heating up. Groups accuse each other of hate. Immigrant activists sometimes claim to be victims, even when they are the ones importing practices Canadians find hateful. Native Canadians, meanwhile, feel silenced, afraid of being called racist for pointing out real problems. The truth is that multiculturalism has limits. It works when people bring their best, not their worst.
The Canadian Way
Canada’s strength has always been its ability to blend. Italians brought pizza, and it became Canadian. Jamaicans brought reggae, and it’s played on Canadian radios. Indians brought samosas, and they’re sold in corner stores everywhere. But none of these groups demanded that Canada abandon its own laws or values. They added, they didn’t replace.
That’s the Canadian way.
So the debate isn’t about whether immigration is good or bad. It’s about what kind of immigration strengthens Canada and what kind weakens it. It’s about recognizing that some parts of “culture” are actually cult-like practices of control, violence, and hate. Those must never be excused in the name of diversity.
Canada is at a crossroads. If we accept multiculturalism as “everything goes,” then we risk importing the very divisions and hatreds people fled from in the first place. But if we say multiculturalism means sharing the best of each culture while keeping Canada’s own identity strong, then we can continue to thrive.
No one wants to see honour killings, forced marriages, caste systems, or grooming gangs on Canadian soil. No one wants tribal conflict to replace Canadian unity. Most Canadians are ready to welcome newcomers. But they also want to know those newcomers are ready to be Canadian too.
That’s the tipping point. And it’s a debate Canada cannot afford to avoid.
Avoiding Common Financial Mistakes in Retirement
Avoiding Common Financial Mistakes in Retirement
By Bruno M. Scanga
Deposit Broker, Insurance & Investment Advisor
Retirement is a milestone many eagerly anticipate – a time to relax and enjoy the fruits of years of labor. However, for some, this dream can turn into a financial nightmare due to poor money management. While every retiree’s situation is unique, several common mistakes can derail even the most carefully laid plans. Avoiding these pitfalls is crucial for a secure and comfortable retirement.
One of the biggest errors is underestimating longevity.
People are living longer than ever, and a retirement that initially seems well-funded can be stretched thin over 30 or more years. Outliving retirement savings, force difficult choices and the potential of relying on limited government benefits. A sound retirement plan should project expenses over a potentially long lifespan, factoring in inflation and unexpected healthcare costs.
Another frequent misstep is overspending in the early years.
The initial excitement of retirement can lead to a surge in spending. Travel, hobbies, and home renovations are tempting ways to enjoy newfound freedom. However, this “go-go” phase can deplete savings quickly, leaving insufficient funds for later years when health issues or other unexpected expenses arise. A balanced approach is key, allowing for enjoyment while maintaining a sustainable budget throughout retirement.
Ignoring inflation is another critical oversight.
The cost of living steadily increases over time, meaning that the purchasing power of your savings decreases. What seems like a comfortable nest egg today might not cover essential expenses a decade or two down the line. Retirement plans should incorporate realistic inflation projections and adjust spending accordingly to maintain a desired standard of living.
Failing to diversify investments is a risky strategy.
Putting all your eggs in one basket, whether it’s a single stock or a concentrated real estate holding, can expose you to significant losses. A diversified portfolio across different asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate, helps mitigate risk and provides a more stable return over the long term. Regularly reviewing and rebalancing your portfolio is essential to ensure it aligns with your risk tolerance and retirement goals.
Not planning for healthcare costs is a major oversight.
Healthcare expenses tend to increase significantly in retirement, particularly as people age. Unexpected medical bills, long-term care needs, and rising insurance premiums can put a significant strain on retirement finances. It’s crucial to research health insurance options, estimate potential healthcare costs, and explore long-term care insurance possibilities to protect your savings.
Finally, procrastination is a common enemy of sound retirement planning.
Putting off saving and investing until later in life makes it significantly harder to accumulate sufficient funds. The power of compounding, where investment earnings generate further earnings over time, is most effective when started early. The sooner you begin planning and saving for retirement, the more time your money has to grow.
Retirement should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, not financial stress. By avoiding these common mistakes, retirees can significantly improve their financial security and enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling retirement. Seeking professional financial advice can also be invaluable in creating a personalized retirement plan that addresses individual needs and goals.
16% - What Starts in City Hall Shapes the Nation Migration and the Disappearing 16%
16% - What Starts in City Hall Shapes the Nation Migration and the Disappearing 16%
By Councillor Lisa Robinson
There is one number that should stop people in their tracks: sixteen percent. That’s the share of the world’s population that is white. Sixteen percent. And yet, it is this small fraction of humanity that is constantly told to open its borders, erase its culture, and diversify to the point of disappearance.
Nowhere is this pressure more visible than in Canada. Our population grew by more than 744,000 people in 2024 alone, almost entirely from immigration. While Canada has always benefited from responsible, legal migration, mass inflows at record levels are straining housing, hospitals, and classrooms. Meanwhile, ordinary Canadians are struggling just to pay for groceries.
The answer from our political class? Bring in more people — often without proper controls or limits. There must be a zero-tolerance approach to illegal immigration, while ensuring that legal, responsible migration continues in a way that works for Canadians.
The moment anyone dares to raise concerns — to suggest that perhaps we should care for our own citizens first — they are shouted down, silenced, or branded with labels meant to end debate before it begins. But here’s the uncomfortable truth: no one else plays by these rules. You cannot move to the Middle East, Africa, or Asia and demand that the culture, religion, and traditions of those countries change to accommodate you. Those societies defend their identity and their people. Only in the West are we expected to apologize for our existence.
I’ve seen this erasure play out firsthand in Pickering, where I serve as a city councillor. For years, certain voices have pushed to remove Christmas trees from community spaces — first in our recreation centre, then in the main lobby of City Hall. It may seem small, but these decisions are part of a larger pattern: traditions quietly pushed aside, culture chipped away piece by piece, all in the name of “diversity and inclusion.” In reality, it’s the deliberate sidelining of Canadian identity at the local level encompassing DEI into every decision we make.
This isn’t just about economics or social services — though those pressures are real. It is about survival. Sixteen percent of the global population is not an endless supply. Once erased, it cannot be rebuilt. If Western nations fail to defend their culture, their people, and their future, then that sixteen percent will continue to shrink, and with it will vanish the freedoms, institutions, and way of life that generations sacrificed to build.
This conversation is not about hate; it is about truth. It is about fairness. Every people on earth has the right to protect their culture and existence. Western nations should be no different. Canadians deserve leadership that prioritizes Canadians, that defends our heritage, and that ensures our children inherit a country they recognize.
What starts in City Hall — decisions about traditions, culture, and inclusion — ends up shaping the nation. If we allow our identity to be quietly chipped away at the local level, there is no reason to think the rest of Canada will be spared. It is time for Canadians to recognize the stakes and act accordingly.
“Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head On And Rise Above It” - Lisa Robinson 2023
OSHAWA COUNCIL RETURNS FROM ITS SUMMER RECESS ** WHAT ARE THE ISSUES THAT LAY AHEAD? **
OSHAWA COUNCIL RETURNS FROM ITS SUMMER RECESS
** WHAT ARE THE ISSUES THAT LAY AHEAD? **
THOSE WHO PUT TOGETHER THE WORDS in a speech, an online editorial, or a newspaper column such as this one, bear the responsibility for the message they deliver. From their construction, style, and general tone – including the platitudes which they contain or the good sense that may arise from their remarks, one cannot but be convinced that a certain element of control is exercised.
Last week, Whitby Mayor Liz Roy penned an online piece which appears to have been manifestly arranged to send a clear message to her Council colleagues – that any further attention seeking tactics on the part of some will not be tolerated. It’s a bold move to make in such a public forum, even more so with the start of what Mayor Roy calls the “silly season” in municipal politics. That’s the time between now and the start of the candidate registration process in May of next year, which undoubtedly seems a long way off to most of us – but not for those seeking re-election or a chance to throw their hat into the ring for the first time. That process ends in the third week of July, whereupon the focus of elected officials will almost certainly shift away from the work of governing and towards the election that will take place in October.
All of that makes for a rather interesting backdrop to a discussion I had recently with Oshawa’s John Gray, currently the local councillor for Ward 5. I reached out to John in an effort to discuss the autumn sitting of Council and what we may expect as to the issues and events likely to come forward.
I began by asking John as to his thoughts on Mayor Roy’s support for the provincial government’s reintroduction of the Municipal Accountability Act, a bill that would give Integrity Commissioners the authority to recommend the removal of a member of Council in serious cases. We agreed that caution is the order of the day, and that such an option should never be used as a weapon to silence dissent. As to how this affects the current makeup of Oshawa Council, John was optimistic, “The scenes that have played out in other municipalities, those that ultimately led to the proposed legislation, are thankfully not part of the atmosphere we now have at Oshawa City Hall.” He went on to suggest the current council is “quite cohesive, although we do have our frustrating moments.”
John describes a mutual understanding among his colleagues, to avoid letting disputes of any kind “blow up on the Council floor” and he doesn’t see that changing as the final year of this term draws near.
Our conversation reminded me of the efforts made by Ward 4 councillor Derek Giberson during the debate over a new Bylaw which added restrictions to social services agencies wanting to locate with the city limits. A certain degree of online disputes did occur between councillors on social media, resulting in accusations of ‘irresponsible’ rumours having been circulated, however several delegations were able to attend the meeting and councillors from all wards had their say – without the type of ‘explosion on the Council floor’ one might expect.
Readers may recall a previous column in which I detailed the new By-law which mandates an 800-metre separation between existing and any new social services ‘outlets’ throughout the city. John informed me that a Notice of Appeal has been filed by interested parties in July, and that the matter will proceed to a Tribunal hearing at a date as yet undetermined. That is certainly an issue worth watching for in the year ahead.
Among the list of items to keep an eye on are several new developments that have been proposed or are already approved for properties in the area in and around the downtown. One such is the Medallion Developments Inc. proposal for new high-density residential at the long-vacant Fittings land off Bruce Street. That item will soon be going before the Economic & Development Services Committee – of which John Gray is a member – to acknowledge that any financial assistance will be transferred by the City to the developer only during certain construction stages. This is hopefully an indicator that the project will soon get under way.
As to the many residential proposals referenced in the City’s Development Insider Report, John is quick to remind me that the number of sales of new homes within the GTA in July totaled only 357, a downturn that will undoubtedly affect the start-date of many projects, not just in Oshawa but throughout Durham Region and the province. However, as always, there was a sense of optimism in the Ward 5 councillor’s comments, “Regardless of the short term economy, the good news is Oshawa is set for an explosion in development with so many approvals now in place, and at some point soon residents will see construction cranes everywhere in this city.”
On that point we agree, however, as this columnist sees it, residents of Oshawa will have to be patient with unfortunate delays on projects such as the redevelopment of the post office building, which has been a highly anticipated form of downtown rejuvenation. There will also be one or two projects that will never see the light of day – at least in my time, one of them being the proposed high-rise condo development for 80 Harbour Road. The only thing that will be standing on that site in five years’ time are the series of worn out billboards that are now being slowly covered with graffiti.
Leaving construction and development aside, I asked John to update me on the efforts being made to improve the situation for residents in the Simcoe & Mill Sts. neighbourhood, which many readers may recall has been the subject of media reports on issues of crime and violent behaviour. “As to the efforts being made by the police, I am definitely pleased to be working with James Lamothe, the superintendent for the Central East Division. James is a proactive kind of cop who wants to turn the corner on local policing in these types of neighbourhoods – as we saw with his bike patrol initiative, but there are limits to what he and his colleagues can do when it comes to the courts.”
On a final note – at least for now – residents and taxpayers will want to keep up-to-date on the upcoming municipal budget deliberations. The last go-around resulted in a tax increase of just under 8 per cent, and Mayor Dan Carter has so far shown no willingness to relinquish his Strong Mayor Powers that have given him the ability to exercise almost total control over the budget, rendering the rest of council as secondary participants.
There is so much more on the horizon, including the many problems and opportunities downtown, the proposed gondola transportation corridor, and the trials and tribulations of the councillors themselves.
Fun times ahead.
ALL KEPT IN THE DARK
KEPT IN THE DARK
B.A. Psychology
Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers
ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000
Published Columns in Canada and The United States
Do you have any idea on all that is happening across the region of Durham and no one knows about it? In Oshawa alone there so many calls for good paying jobs by the City. No one knows about them as they only post them online.
The City of Oshawa refuses to post them in their only in print City newspaper. You may be asking why?
POLITICS... No other reason... But let’s forget the jobs. How about the many events. The important road closures, the many developments and bids, tenders not to mention by-law changes that affect you the taxpayer.
How about all the important community meetings, like budget discussion, parks, recreation and general public interest.
ALL KEPT IN THE DARK
Municipalities are under the wrongful impression that posting online is the same as publishing in their local newspaper. Municipalities pride themselves on ‘SUPPORTING LOCAL SMALL BUSINESSES’, but by their practice they don’t.
The problem with the internet is that not everyone can afford it or everyone gets on it. Main, reason. Many can’t afford computers or smart phones. Many, especially those living in rural areas have limited or no internet service.
A huge number of the general population do not have the time after a busy day to sit in front of a computer.
This is where the local newspaper plays a role. It unites the community under one print media. It is affordable and delivered right to your own home. It only costs one dollar per week.
Thank you to all that have subscribed across the Region and the many that are signing up on daily basis. Our success is the readership. The Central is the only in print newspaper covering all of Durham Region. The only professional grade newspaper with over 30 years of proven track record.
The Central is an award winning newspaper bringing all the important news from across the region.The Central is the only newspaper in the country that offers to the general public access to the press with no censorship.
We believe in telling it like it is. Bring light to the truth as news happens across the region. We will never keep you in the dark or be compromised by political agenda or interests.
The Central is your newspaper. It our Regional source for news. One newspaper bringing you what matters across the region.
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