A NEW COLUMN TO DISCUSS ISSUES OF MENTAL HEALTH

A NEW COLUMN TO DISCUSS ISSUES OF MENTAL HEALTH MY NAME IS KATHY CUMMING and you may have read my letters-to-the-editor in previous editions of The Central where I described some of the challenges faced by those struggling with mental health issues. In this occasional column, I will attempt to share stories centered on people of my acquaintance who have been forced to cope with the many hardships associated with concerns over their mental health. I’d like to tell these stories in a unique way, with a focus on how they managed life, both at home and within their communities, and what they needed most in terms of care and support. I want to help by sharing their stories and describing, where I can, some of the alternatives to pharmaceuticals that may benefit others. Some of the topics within the field of mental health that are rarely discussed include the question as to who assesses the available programs, should it not be the families that actually use them. I will also seek answers as to who is best to determine outcomes and how we can move beyond simply asking families to “please fill out this survey”. The needs among those struggling are great, and include factors such as group home environments, dietary needs, assisted housing, employment, transportation, access to proper medical care, and even counselling in matters of faith and education. How can we help build that? DURING A CONFERENCE ON FUNDRAISING for Mental Health charities and non-profits, a gentleman walked up to our group and stated, "everyone has mental health concerns, and in reality it just depends on the severity" I had thought long about family members and others I knew growing up, and the complex names given to their various conditions. Friends I knew who had some form of simple anxiety could also be numbered among the people suffering from, as the fellow at the conference said, some type of mental health concern. I have spent considerable time visiting unique communities within North America looking for clues that would enable the creation of the perfect environment in which everyone with mental health issues may find peace. Such a place remains a mystery to me. I value your input as we move forward in our discussion. Let’s learn from each other.

THE REALITIES OF THE TRIBUTE COMMUNITIES CENTRE RENOVATION

THE REALITIES OF THE TRIBUTE COMMUNITIES CENTRE RENOVATION THIS NEWSPAPER WAS THE FIRST media outlet to break the story on massive renovations to the Tribute Communities Centre (TCC) that are due to be completed by late 2027. Our editorial, published the same day Mayor Carter and others gathered together to announce a $50 million investment into the TCC, raised concerns as to the costs involved and the lack of transparency in the negotiations leading up to council’s decision to undertake such an expenditure. We began by looking back to 1964, when residents came together to pay for the construction of the much-loved Civic Auditorium, with many fans donating a portion of their weekly paycheques to see their dream turn into reality. We also recalled that moment in 2006 when, once again, residents of Oshawa took great pride in welcoming the Generals to their first home game in what was then called the General Motors Centre. Built at a cost of at least $35 million, the downtown arena has never turned a profit in its almost 20 years of existence, requiring taxpayers to remain as loyal contributors year after year. Nevertheless, Oshawa Generals owner Rocco Tullio said in early 2023 that he was “done” negotiating with City Hall, and was ready to move the team to Pickering, saying at the time that any deal to keep the Gens in Oshawa would hinge on the City meeting a number of conditions. It appears those terms have been met. In a recent press release posted on the City’s website, the renovations are offered up as a necessary ‘modernization’ of the existing facility, including a main entrance expansion, interior alterations with seating for up to 7000 fans, and an updated concession area. The announcement goes on to say, “The $50 million modernization of the TCC will not impact the tax rate. It will be funded through various sources, such as the new Oshawa Generals and Oak View Group agreements, Municipal Accommodation Tax, and additional seat revenue.” What that statement doesn’t tell you is that one major debt is to quite simply be taken over by another. Forget the dribs and drabs of any additional seat revenue or the tax on hotel stays for just a moment. Consider; the current debenture (the debt issued by the City of Oshawa that relies entirely on their creditworthiness) for the TCC was due expire in November 2027…the date upon which the new debt for the proposed renovations will be issued. To say, at this stage, that the tax rate won’t be impacted is to be economical with the actualité. Interest rates alone are very unpredictable, not to mention cost overruns during construction. It is well known in political circles that once a municipal debt is paid off, something always comes in to fill the void, either by way of new spending, or the increased cost of maintaining services. Nevertheless, the announcement of a $50 million ice rink renovation couldn’t have come at a worse time for local taxpayers who were already saddled with a significant increase in the Mayor’s budget last autumn. Recent events both here and abroad have conspired to slow the economy, including a recent announcement of 700 layoffs at the General Motors production facility, either due simply to a temporary slump in sales, or the more sinister possibility of an eventual relocation south of the border. In the latest edition of Mayor Carter’s RealTalk podcast, a very open and frank discussion may be heard between the Mayor and Generals owner Rocco Tullio. The two men talk of a 30-year extension of the partnership recently negotiated between the City, the Oshawa Generals Hockey Club, and the operators of the TCC, being the Oak View Group. Here are a few excerpts from the conversation between the two men that readers may find interesting: ON BUYING & OWNING THE TEAM MR. TULLIO: “I wanted to prove to the fans that this was more than just a business for me; it was my passion. I wanted to restore the credibility of the Oshawa Generals. This isn’t a big money maker. I didn’t buy it to make money off of it; I did it because I wanted to give back in so many ways.” ON THE STANDARDS REQUIRED FOR PLAYERS MR. TULLIO: “I want to standardize things. We put our team in certain standards of hotels, and a quality of food, like last night after the game and every post-meal it’s been ribeye steak…we don’t just go and give them pizza. When they don’t perform well on the ice…you didn’t feed them properly, you didn’t ensure a good night’s sleep…then you expect them to perform at a high level.” ON THE EVOLUTION OF THE GENERALS TEAM MAYOR CARTER: “I’ve watched the evolution of your organization with you as an owner, and we’ve seen a small gym to a larger gym, an area that was a meeting area that is now a video review room where all the players are. We’ve seen an area for players so that they can have proper nutrition with a kitchen that has been put in. If we want the best out of people then we have to create an environment so they can be their best.” ON THE NEGOTIATIONS MR. TULLIO: “You (Mayor Carter) fight for what you believe is right for the city of Oshawa and we fight for what we think is right for the Oshawa Generals. At the end of the day, Dan, you championed this, and you put your money where your mouth is, and you delivered at the end of the day. We have to make sure we have all the resources and tools to be able to survive the longevity of what Junior Hockey is evolving into, and space was so critical for us. Kudos to you and the rest of council for recognizing that. We were able to find a happy medium for everybody.” That “happy medium” includes $50 million from the taxpayers of Oshawa. Kudos to you all.

Ottawa Pro-Life March: A Rallying Cry for Courage, Compassion, and the Defense of Life

Ottawa Pro-Life March: A Rallying Cry for Courage, Compassion, and the Defense of Life By Councillor Lisa Robinson As a proud elected councillor for the City of Pickering, I have attended many events - but none have stirred my heart and renewed my sense of purpose like the recent Pro-Life March in Ottawa, hosted by the remarkable March for Life Coalition. This was more than just a march; it was a nationwide stand. Thousands of Canadians, young people, parents, grandparents, faith leaders, medical professionals, and advocates, gathered with one powerful message: to defend the dignity of human life, from the moment of conception to natural death. In a world where the push for Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) has crept deeper into our healthcare system — even targeting the vulnerable, the elderly, the disabled, and sometimes even the mentally ill - this march was a critical statement. We are saying loud and clear: Canada must be a country that protects life, not disposes of it. Life is precious at every stage, and we must push back against policies that treat death as a solution to suffering, poverty, or mental health struggles. What stood out most was the courage and resolve in the faces of those marching. Despite the challenges, the media pushback, the political resistance, and the social pressures, these Canadians showed up - peaceful, determined, and driven by love. We weren’t there to judge; we were there because we care deeply about the voiceless, the vulnerable, the unborn, the sick, and the future of our country. The March for Life Coalition and their event crew deserve enormous praise. Their flawless coordination - managing logistics, amplifying diverse voices, and ensuring everyone felt safe and respected - transformed this gathering into a monumental moment. I felt proud, not just to attend, but to stand shoulder to shoulder with national leaders and ordinary citizens alike, all united in one moral cause: to affirm that every life matters. I left Ottawa with a renewed determination to bring this message home - because defending life is not just a federal issue or a national conversation; it’s something that touches every local community. We need to have the courage to speak up at every level, even when it’s politically inconvenient or socially unpopular. To those who marched, organized, volunteered, and sacrificed to make the Pro-Life March a success: thank you. You are proof that conscience, conviction, and compassion still thrive in this country. This is a movement that will not be silenced, and I, for one, am honored to be part of it. Together, we stand for a Canada that cherishes life, from the first heartbeat to the final breath - not by force, but by the natural dignity every person deserves.

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

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

MAYOR CARTER YOU ARE HYPOCRITE

MAYOR CARTER YOU ARE HYPOCRITE B.A. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States This week off the news wire it read: ‘Carter promises job support to impacted GM plant workers Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter has promised support to workers impacted by the decision to return the General Motors’ Oshawa Assembly to a two-shift operation instead of the current three. "On behalf of the City of Oshawa and City Council, I extend our compassion and support for those workers and their families who will be impacted.’ Being a hypocrite means acting in a way that contradicts what one claims to believe or feel. It's about saying one thing and doing another, often with the intention of appearing more virtuous or moral than one truly is. By Webster definition: hypocrite - noun Synonyms of hypocrite 1. a person who puts on a false appearance of virtue or religion 2. a person who acts in contradiction to his or her stated beliefs or feelings. If by my definition I am wrong. Please accept my apology. But if not then the Mayor has to be the biggest incompetent on the planet when it comes to managing Oshawa. For him to make such statements over GM. When his downtown is emptying out faster than he can drive through it. Does he not drive through downtown Oshawa? Does he not care? Or does he only care about 700 GM jobs that were on the chopping block any way. Now with the ‘Tariff’, bull. Companies like GM have an excuse. Oshawa lost 30,000 GM jobs and what did our mayor do for those families.... same thing he will do for the 700, increase their taxes next year by 8%. Yet, Carter is quoted, “‘Carter promises job support to impacted GM plant workers.” Honest concern, or just being a hypocrite. Or option two. He is such an incompetent administrator/leader that he has failed to support downtown merchants going out of business. Affecting 1000 of jobs.... Carter claims to “SUPPORT”. Yet, he fails to ‘SUPPORT’, his City Newspaper situated right in the heart of downtown Oshawa. Does he not care? Or is he a Hypocrite? Then again, this newspaper would not be the first local business that is passed over due to political interests. Carter has the only in print newspaper in his downtown and he has failed to support it. We are the heartbeat of the City and the region. Where is the municipal support? Incompetent or Hypocrite? Maybe I am the one with the intellectual handicap and expect for our beloved Mayor to be true to his word. He, will not support the 700 loosing their jobs any more than he is supporting his City Newspaper and or all the downtown local Canadian small businesses closing almost on a monthly basis. Incompetent or Hypocrite. You tell me... please.

When Looking for a Job, Imagine Yourself as a Renter

When Looking for a Job, Imagine Yourself as a Renter By Nick Kossovan You don't own your job; your employer does, making the phrase "my job" an oxymoron. Layoffs illustrate that jobs belong to employers, not employees. In 2025, as layoffs remain prevalent and the economy becomes more unpredictable, job seekers, as if in denial, continue to equate finding a job with finding a permanent home. This mindset leads to prolonged job searches. Employees are renters; they rent their jobs until they no longer want them or until their employer no longer requires their services. Layoffs demonstrate that employers are the landlords of jobs. Essentially, being laid off is akin to being evicted. By adopting a renter's mindset, job seekers can shorten their job search and stop seeking what doesn't exist—a permanent employment situation. When renting, the primary goal is to have a roof over your head. Since renting isn't permanent, we tend to accept 'less-than-ideal' circumstances (neighbourhood, kitchen layout, bathroom size). Similarly, in job searching, 'less than ideal' circumstances could be a lower salary, working onsite, or a less prestigious company. On the other hand, homeownership, in which understandably ideal circumstances are sought, is a long-term commitment involving a significant financial outlay and is far more challenging than renting. When looking for a job, consider it as searching for a rental situation that meets your immediate needs rather than pursuing your ideal work situation, which you can always continue to seek. However, keep in mind that whether your job is merely to pay your bills or it's your supposed "dream job," you're renting your job. For the last 20 years, the gig economy has been a topic of discussion, emphasizing that employees rent their jobs. Now that the gig economy is here, and people lament the broken hiring system. NEWSFLASH: Since no two employers assess candidates in the same way, there is no universal hiring system; therefore, there is no "broken hiring system." Those who take their careers seriously are strategic. They don't waste time or energy complaining about the imbalance in the employer-employee relationship, especially regarding hiring. When a job posting attracts 1,000 applicants for a single opening, the 999 candidates not selected often blame everyone and everything except themselves, particularly those with a sense of entitlement. Today's job market, as AI eliminates white-collar and creative jobs, illustrates the interplay between supply and demand. The rapid progress of AI and automation is swiftly eroding job security. In 2025, whether we like it or not, all employees are, to some degree, part of the gig economy. The Myth of Permanence Renters understand that their lease will eventually end. Employees must realize that their job, or the one they're pursuing, will also end. Companies evolve, industries change, and geopolitical interests shift, as is happening now with tariffs. Economies fluctuate, and consumers are fickle in their tastes and demands, which means any job can disappear overnight. Approaching your job search with a renter's mentality helps you remain flexible and adaptable without succumbing to the pressure of expecting your next job to last until retirement. Truism: Nothing lasts forever. Short-Term Mindset, Long-Term Benefits When you view your job search through the lens of a renter, you prioritize short-term experiences over long-term commitments. Ask yourself: What skills do I need to develop and show a track record of having used to further my career? What experiences will enhance my resume? By focusing on these questions, you can identify roles that meet your immediate needs rather than getting bogged down in trying to find the "perfect" job. Truism: You can always change jobs. The Importance of Flexibility Renters typically have a more flexible mindset. They understand that their landlord may change their living situation and are prepared to adapt. This flexibility is crucial in today's job market. Instead of fixating on a single role or company, broaden your search. Consider contract, part-time, or freelance positions that can provide valuable experience and networking opportunities, often leading to full-time employment. Truism: Flexibility isn't just a trait; it's a survival skill. Setting Realistic Expectations Most renters understand that compromise is necessary; the same applies to job searching. It's okay not to land your dream job, which will likely be a temporary situation anyway. Have realistic expectations and recognize that obtaining your desired job may take time and require extra effort—such as networking, being active on LinkedIn, and attending relevant industry events—and your journey will likely include detours. Truism: Patience is a virtue. Embracing the Journey Renters understand they don't own their home; hence, it's not theirs and, therefore, not permanent. This understanding requires embracing the journey of discovering new neighbourhoods or interacting with evolving neighbours. Even though job searching can be stressful, when approached with curiosity and an open mind, it transforms into an opportunity to explore new possibilities and connect with new people. Every experience, whether positive or negative, contributes to your growth. Truism: Job searching, as in life, is about the journey, not just the destination. Adopting a renter's mindset acknowledges that all jobs are temporary and that employees are now part of the gig economy, encouraging a pragmatic job search strategy. You're not seeking permanence; you're actively looking for opportunities that align with your aspirations. Moreover, you recognize that you don't control employers; you only control your mindset ___________________________________________________________________ Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned veteran of the corporate landscape, offers advice on searching for a job. You can send him your questions at artoffindingwork@gmail.com

Tax Increases and Wasteful Spending: Time for Accountability in Pickering

Tax Increases and Wasteful Spending: Time for Accountability in Pickering By Councillor Lisa Robinson As a city councillor and, more importantly, a concerned citizen, I find myself deeply troubled by the ongoing trend of excessive tax increases and wasteful spending that continues to burden the residents of Pickering. In 2025, our community faces a 3.75% municipal property tax increase, while Durham Region is imposing a staggering 5.8% hike in the regional levy. These increases are three times the current inflation rate, which hovers around 2%, placing an undue financial burden on taxpayers. But here’s the kicker: while residents are struggling with these higher taxes, our local government continues to pour taxpayer money into initiatives that lack measurable outcomes. Take, for example, the Hannover Messe 2025, an international trade fair in Germany where the Mayor and City staff traveled to represent Pickering at a significant cost to taxpayers. Thousands of dollars were spent on booths, travel, and accommodations, all in the name of “economic development.” But where are the results for Pickering residents? There’s little tangible evidence that these expensive ventures lead to real, local jobs, business growth, or direct benefits for our city. It’s frustrating to see so much public money spent with little to no return for those who are paying the bill. Unfortunately, the issue doesn’t stop there. Over the years, we have seen a troubling pattern of wasteful spending on consultants. In many cases, these consultants deliver work that is incomplete, poorly executed, or outright ineffective, only to see the city hire the same firms again, leading to costly rework and delays. This is money that could be better spent on improving our roads, supporting local businesses, or addressing the serious infrastructure needs in our community. If consultants are consistently failing to deliver quality work, then why are we paying them over and over? Why should taxpayers foot the bill for these failures? This pattern of mismanagement is compounded by a broader trend of poor project execution. We’ve seen initiatives that were started, only to be scrapped or redone because the original planning and execution were flawed. It’s not only wasteful but also demoralizing for taxpayers who are left footing the bill for government failures. As a city councillor, I believe it’s my responsibility to hold our local government accountable to the people. But, as a citizen, I share the growing frustration that many residents feel. It’s time for transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of taxpayer money. We cannot continue down this path of wasteful spending while residents are being asked to pay more, year after year, without seeing any tangible benefits in return. We need to refocus our priorities on what truly matters to the people of Pickering — better services, stronger infrastructure, and a more transparent and accountable local government. This needs to stop. Enough is Enough It’s time to hold our elected officials accountable for their spending, their decisions, and the impact those decisions have on all of us. If we don’t demand change, then we risk continuing this cycle of mismanagement that will ultimately harm our city in the long run. I am Councillor Lisa Robinson, “The People’s Councillor” Watch for my column each week in The Central..

We Need to Have a Good Talk About Healthcare

We Need to Have a Good Talk About Healthcare By Dale Jodoin As we head toward another election season, people are once again talking about housing, jobs, taxes—and yes, healthcare. But here’s the truth: we’re not really talking about it the way we should. We toss around slogans, blame politicians, and get into arguments online. But when it comes to actually fixing Canada’s broken healthcare system, everyone seems too scared to have a real, grown-up conversation. It’s time we sat down, took a deep breath, and had that talk. Because if we don’t? Things are only going to get worse. Canada Comes Second Last in Health Ranking A new report came out from a group called the Commonwealth Fund. They looked at 11 wealthy countries—like Germany, Australia, and the U.K.—and rated their healthcare systems. Canada came second last. That means 10 out of 11 countries are doing better than us. The only country ranked worse was the United States. Let that sink in. For a country that says we “take care of everyone,” we’re not doing a great job. People are waiting hours in emergency rooms, months to see a specialist, and even longer for surgery. Some folks are just giving up and paying out of pocket—if they can afford it. What’s Going Wrong? Let’s look at the facts. Here are some real numbers: Over 1.3 million Canadians left emergency rooms last year without being seen. Why? Because they waited too long and gave up. More than half of Canadians who needed to see a specialist had to wait over four weeks. Around 18% of people needing surgery waited more than four months. Canada has fewer doctors per person than most other developed countries. We also don’t have enough MRI or CT scanners, so even getting diagnosed takes longer. This isn’t just frustrating—it’s dangerous. Delays in care can mean worse outcomes, more stress, and even death. It’s Not the Nurses’ or Doctors’ Fault Let’s be clear: most of the people working in healthcare are doing their best. Nurses, doctors, paramedics, cleaners—many of them are burnt out, underpaid, and trying to help in a system that’s falling apart. So where’s the problem? The truth is, our healthcare system is run by too many layers of management, unions that won’t budge, and governments afraid to make changes. We have too many meetings and not enough action. Too much talk, not enough care. And no—this isn’t about “getting rid of unions.” But it is about putting adults in the room who can talk about hard truths. We need to be honest. We need to admit the system is broken and ask the tough questions: Should provinces have more freedom to try new solutions? Should private clinics be allowed for faster service, while still keeping basic care public? Should we let pharmacists and nurse practitioners do more? Should we open new training schools for nurses and doctors? Emergency Rooms Shouldn’t Be the Only Option Right now, if you get sick after 5 PM or on a weekend, your best hope is the emergency room. Why? Because walk-in clinics are closed, and many family doctors don’t offer after-hours care. That means ERs are packed with people who don’t need emergency care—they just have nowhere else to go. This slows everything down. People with real emergencies—like heart attacks or broken bones—get stuck behind people with ear infections and sore throats. We need to rethink this. More after-hours care. More mobile clinics. More home visits. Let’s take the pressure off hospitals. We Can’t Just Throw Money at It Some people say, “Just spend more!” But that’s not the answer either. Canada already spends more than most countries on healthcare. Yet we get less for it. Other countries—like Australia and the Netherlands—spend similar amounts but get better results. Their people wait less. Their systems are faster and more efficient. So maybe it’s not just about the money. Maybe it’s about how we’re spending it. We need to follow the money. How much goes to middle managers? How much paperwork? How much to consultants who never see a patient? If we’re going to fix things, we have to make sure every dollar is going where it counts—directly to patient care. Time to Get Real Here’s what I’m asking: Let’s stop pretending everything’s fine. Let’s stop blaming one political party or another. Let’s stop hiding behind slogans like “universal care” when the care isn’t really there. Let’s have that real talk—across kitchen tables, on radio shows, in town halls. Let’s talk about hard changes. Let’s talk about what’s working in other countries and what we can learn. Let’s listen to doctors and patients, not just union reps and bureaucrats. And let’s not wait for the next crisis. A System Worth Saving Despite all this, I still believe in public healthcare. I believe we should take care of each other. I believe no one should go bankrupt because they got sick. But believing in something doesn’t mean pretending it’s perfect. It means fighting to make it better. So let’s roll up our sleeves. Let’s act like grown-ups. Let’s fix this thing before it’s too late. We don’t need another election promise. We need a plan. Because our health—and the health of our country—depends on it.

The Legacy of Pope Francis

The Legacy of Pope Francis by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East Reflecting on the peaceful Easter celebrations of millions of catholic, protestant and orthodox Christians, the sad news of the passing of Pope Francis into eternity came as a crushing blow. Here in Canada we are currently focused on the crucial federal elections soon coming to an end. Our national focus is evidenced by the more than 7.3 million Canadians who have already voted during the Easter holiday advance polls. However, we cannot ignore the death of Pope Francis. He was one of the most humane and dedicated persons to the wellbeing of humanity. Pope Francis died on Monday the 21st of April, the day after Easter, at the age of 88. As the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, he left behind a legacy of service, unity, and compassion. Jorge Mario Bergoglio was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and was the son of Italian immigrants. He was named a Cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 2001 and was elected pope on March 13, 2013. Pope Francis was the first non-European pope in more than a millennium and the first Latin American pontiff. He preached peace and acceptance and reflected those values through his actions. He was the first pope to address a joint meeting of Congress in the United States and the first pope to visit the Arabian Peninsula, known as the birthplace of Islam, a historic moment for interfaith dialogue. Pope Francis (born Jorge Mario Bergoglio) 17 December 1936 – 21 April 2025) was the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State from 2013 until his death in 2025. He was the first pope from the Society of Jesus (the Jesuit Order), the first Latin American, the first from the Americas, the first from the Southern Hemisphere, and the first born or raised outside of Europe since the Syrian pope Gregory III in the 8th century. Bergoglio was inspired to join the Jesuits in 1958 after recovering from severe illness. He was ordained a Catholic priest in 1969, and from 1973 to 1979 he was the Jesuit provincial superior in Argentina. He became the archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and was made a cardinal in 2001 by Pope John Paul II. Following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI on the 28th of February 2013, a papal conclave elected Bergoglio as his successor on the 13th of March. He chose Francis as his papal name in honour of Saint Francis of Assisi. Throughout his public life, Francis was noted for his humility, emphasis on God's mercy, international visibility as pope, concern for the poor, and commitment to interreligious dialogue. On the night of his election, he took a bus back to his hotel with the cardinals rather than being driven in the papal car. The next day, he visited Cardinal Jorge María Mejía in the hospital and chatted with patients and staff. In addition to his native Spanish, he spoke fluent Italian (the official language of Vatican City and the "everyday language" of the Holy See) and German. He was also conversant in Latin (the official language of the Holy See), French, Portuguese, and English; he also understood Piedmontese and some Genoese Ligurian. He was known for having a less formal approach to the papacy than his predecessors. For instance, he chose to reside in the Domus Sanctae Marthae (House of St. Martha) guest house rather than in the papal apartments of the Apostolic Palace used by previous popes. In addition, due to both his Jesuit and Ignatian aesthetic, he was known for favoring simpler vestments devoid of ornamentation, including refusing the traditional papal mozzetta cape upon his election, choosing silver instead of gold for his piscatory ring, and keeping the same pectoral cross he had as a cardinal. Francis made women full members of dicasteries in the Roman Curia. Pope Francis was a critic of trickle-down economics, consumerism, and overdevelopment. He viewed the death penalty as inadmissible in all cases, and committed the Catholic Church to its worldwide abolition. In international diplomacy, he helped to restore full diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba, negotiated a deal with the People's Republic of China to define Communist Party influence in appointing Chinese bishops, and supported the cause of refugees. He encouraged peace between Israel and Palestinians, called protection of migrants a "duty of civilisation" and criticised anti-immigration politics world-wide. In 2022, he apologized for the Church's role in the cultural genocide of Canadian Indigenous peoples in residential schools. Pope Francis convened the Synod on Synodality, which was described as the culmination of his papacy and the most important event in the Catholic Church since the Second Vatican Council. He made his last public appearance on Easter Sunday, the day before he died. With his passing we lost a true champion of humanity. Many world leaders will pay ultimate tribute to Pope Francis, protector of the poor and disadvantaged and champion for world peace. May he rest in peace!

Municipal Failure Supreme Last One Out, Turn Off The Lights

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

Electronic Communication Gadgets and Smartphones -- Posing Danger for the New Generation

Electronic Communication Gadgets and Smartphones -- Posing Danger for the New Generation by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East The central news in the country currently surrounds the imminent election, a crucial election, because it will define the future of Canada. With all this election action swirling around us, it is still important to note how the explosion of devices dedicated to mass communications are influencing the way in which the next generation will be raised and influenced to behave. The introduction of electronic communication devices, especially smartphones, and with it, ubiquitous social media usage, are clearly key factors in the rise in youth mental health issues seen across the world. There is considerable evidence linking social media use to youth mental health issues. In response, Canada and other countries have developed some policies to deal with social media use among young people, but there are more practical options that Canadian policy-makers could take. Youth mental health issues have been on the rise since the early 2010s, especially among girls, with significant increases in depression, anxiety, and self-harm. In Canada, rates of depressive and anxiety disorders have climbed notably among those aged 15 to 24. This widespread pattern is not limited to Canada, but is apparent across the Anglosphere, which indicates that there is likely some global factor driving the decline in youth mental health. These negative trends are driven in particular, by social media use. There is a lack of personal contact among youth in this age group, who rely more and more on illusory cyberspace meetings, presenting a false reality. These days, time spent on social media often replaces in-person interaction, exposes users to damaging content, and leads some to interpret normal distress as symptoms of mental health. Recent studies suggest that one to two hours of daily social media use is associated with good mental health, but mental health deteriorates as use increases beyond that. The preponderance of the evidence indicates that social media is a major contributor to, and likely a leading cause of, declining mental health among young people. Governments worldwide have started to regulate children’s social media usage, often by tackling “online harm” with policies that try to moderate the content posted on these platforms. However, these efforts, such as Canada’s proposed Online Harms Act, which would impose strict punishments for “hate” offences and empower judges to restrict the movement of anyone who could commit an online hate crime in the future, often infringe on privacy and free expression. Legislation itself will not be able to limit the damages if not accompanied by a healthy system of education, incumbent upon the various board of educations, teachers themselves, and society as a whole. Given the implication of legislating, against the freedom of speech and undue censorship, Canada should find a way to effectively deal with the problem without infringing on these inalienable rights in a free and democratic system. Specifically, Canada should do this through strengthening the educational system in which our youth are spending extended periods of time. It would be advisable to strengthen bans on cellphone and social media use in schools, raise awareness of the downsides of social media, and reorient childhood around free play instead of focusing on screen time. Like any complex social phenomenon, there are likely multiple significant causal factors at play. However, the introduction of smartphones, and with it, ubiquitous social media usage, are clearly key factors in the rise in youth mental health issues seen across the world. To safeguard the mental health of its young, Canada should act now and pursue immediate policies that mitigate social media’s harms as prudently as possible. It is also important to involve parents in this process and much more cooperation and engagement is required from the various bodies of education. It is crucial to involve parents because they have the ultimate responsibility for the future of their children. A symbiosis between the bodied of education, individual teachers and parents is essential in this process of limiting the effects of social media on the mental health of our growing young people. A common sense approach has to be established on this issue. Politicians can legislate to infinity, but life cannot be legislated, it just takes its course. Reflecting upon all this, I do hope that the upcoming election will not create an additional factor, causing adult mental health issues. Good luck and be sure to vote!

Is Canada Still the Country We Thought It Was?

Is Canada Still the Country We Thought It Was? By Dale Jodoin Over the past two decades, many Canadians have noticed something changing. The country feels less united, less fair, and more dangerous. Across schools, courtrooms, and political offices, a growing number of people are asking: Is this still the Canada we were promised? From weak school systems to unequal justice and a rising wave of climate extremism, some say Canada is heading down a troubling path. Across the country, teachers are struggling to keep control in classrooms. Over the years, school systems have shifted their focus—from discipline and structure to emotional comfort. Some students now feel free to yell, act out, or even threaten others without facing serious consequences. "Respect is gone in many classrooms," says one retired educator. "Students are told they’re always the victim, so they don’t take responsibility for bad behavior." As a result, many young people are growing up without learning how to follow rules, listen to others, or work through problems peacefully. This has led to more conflict—not only in schools, but also later in life. Canada’s legal system was built on the idea that everyone is equal under the law. But more people are beginning to feel that justice isn’t being served fairly. In some cases, the punishment depends more on who you are than what you did. Certain groups seem to get lighter sentences, while others face harsher ones. Scam artists, repeat criminals, and violent offenders are often released back into the community with little punishment. This has caused many Canadians to lose faith in the justice system. When people don’t trust the courts, they may feel they need to solve problems on their own. Canada’s political leaders once focused on building roads, creating jobs, and protecting families. Today, many seem more focused on headlines and global image. Regular people say they feel left behind—especially those in rural areas or working-class neighborhoods. While taxes rise and living costs grow, Canadians see billions spent on programs that often don’t help them. Many believe politicians care more about big business, foreign interests, or social media trends than about the average citizen. One small business owner shared: “It feels like the people in charge don’t even live in the same country we do.” Caring for the planet is a good thing. Most Canadians agree we need to reduce pollution and protect nature. But a growing number of people have turned climate action into something more dangerous. Radical groups have started vandalizing businesses, attacking pipelines, and even threatening people with different opinions. These acts aren’t peaceful protests—they’re attacks. Yet many politicians and media outlets avoid calling them out. “When you can’t question something without being silenced or punished, it becomes like a religion,” one analyst said. “And when people act on it with violence, that’s extremism.” Canada is not prepared for this new kind of domestic threat. Law enforcement often backs off. Politicians avoid speaking up. But the damage is real—jobs lost, property destroyed, and public fear on the rise. There is growing concern that young Canadians who still believe in fairness, law, and order will eventually give up on the system. They may stop voting. They may stop speaking out. Some may even feel forced to take action into their own hands when no one else will. That is when a country becomes unstable. “When good people stop believing the rules work, things fall apart fast,” said one retired police officer. “And that’s where we’re headed if we don’t fix this.” Can Canada Still Be Saved? Yes—but change needs to happen now. Schools must return to discipline, structure, and respect. Justice must be equal and fair for all—no matter your background. Leaders must listen to regular Canadians, not just activists or corporations. And Canada must be brave enough to deal with violent climate extremists the same way it handles any other threat. Canada is not just a flag or a place on a map. It’s an idea—one built on fairness, safety, and opportunity. But if we lose those values, we lose the country. There is still time to make things right. But it will take strong voices, open eyes, and a public that refuses to stay silent.

They lied to you. Repeatedly. Boldly. Without shame.

They lied to you. Repeatedly. Boldly. Without shame. By Councillor Lisa Robinson

Remember The Ice Cream Truck

remember the ice cream truck... By Joe Ingino B.A. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States Remember simpler times.... as a kid waiting for the ice man to come riding that old insulated wagon pulled by good old Charlie. Charlie always appreciating that apple or bucket of water awaiting for him during every visit. Or the times waiting on the milk man. Bringing the order of fresh milk, butter and other goodies. There I would stand holding written order in pencil... Or the knife sharpener... the mailman... The shoe repair man... Oh those were the times. Sun gently caressing my skin.... And who can forget the ICE cream trunk later in the 60’s. That bell that could be heard blocks away. Soon as you would hear it... You run to your mom and hit her up for some cash. Soon as you seen it coming.... You run to the curb awaiting the latest flavor or at the least you favor... as many times they would run out and or sub in a different one. As I sit here looking out my office window. My memories race, to the uncertainties. To the innocence of being a child. My parents sheltering me from all of the world’s ills. Look at today. All those memories enriching my character.... Today instead of the ice cream truck. We await the political truck to roll by. At the local level, many people do not even know who is running until they pull up to your front door and introduce themselves. As voters we are at the will of the National names. Some vote on traditional misconceptions. Others on the color of the party. And yet others don’t even bother voting. Democracy is a word pretty much like love. A mix of interpretations and uses. Everyone has their own take. Depending on the context at the moment. Much like that ice cream truck. We the voters have little memory of what we had. A clear dislike for what we are having, ‘NOTHING’. And hope that this time around the truck will bring us something good and something sweet. Much like children, all we want is to be happy. To feel loved and to love those around you. Our political flavor stems from many ideas, misconceptions and presumption, assumptions that normally are not rooted. We the people can’t be expected to see the bigger picture. We only see the wrapper of the different flavors. Then it is up to us to try them. But like they say. Those that like Vanilla over Strawberry will always go for Vanilla. That sweet taste is why we live in a neapolitan world full of confusion guided by ice cream trucks driven by agenda, propaganda and general self fulfilling interests. Vote - No Vote - Hell it is all ice cream that melt after the election.

Election Fever Has Taken Over in Canada

Election Fever Has Taken Over in Canada by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East We are approaching the halfway point of a strange federal election campaign. Polls are heating up, the journalists and the pundits are getting more and more exited, predictions of the winner are abounding, but the economic situation is getting worse for the ordinary Canadian. The tariff war is being fueled by our neighbor to the South and the geopolitical situation is deteriorating by the day. The unpredictable nature of this tariff war is seriously worrisome and President Trump is playing a dangerously provocative game. Dare we call it bull-negotiations? In a situation like this, one hopes that the world might one day be a better place to live. On our political front, the time has come for parties to release their platforms, and we are being bombarded by promises from all sides. As usual, the politicians are promising everything to get the vote. Once the election is over, many of these promises will be forgotten. So diving into this midterm campaign, we see that the competing parties are not only campaigning, but they are constantly asking for money. The advertising is heating up, with negative advertising becoming the trending signature of the Conservative Party. Rallies with the leaders are being held regularly all over the country, with each party trying to convince the electorate to vote for them. However, the economic outlook in Canada is not so good for the near future. Canadian economic growth is expected to run below trend in 2025 and 2026, before finding greater balance in 2027. Slowing population growth and the impact of tariffs on business and consumer sentiment are the drivers of lower growth. Consumer spending had been improving with lower interest rates, but we expect this to act as a drag on growth as higher prices cut into spending power. This has the unemployment rate moving above its long-run level until 2027. Businesses and households see the economic climate as unpredictable. The scope and magnitude of planned US tariffs, along with the timing of their implementation, continue to change. This uncertainty is making it difficult for businesses to make investment and hiring decisions and to set prices. Trade tensions have led households to worry more about their job security and financial health, and they now intend to spend less. Concern about job security is particularly evident among people working in sectors that are highly dependent on trade. Businesses have revised down their sales outlooks. Indicators of future sales—such as order books and sales enquiries—have declined. This decline is particularly prominent in manufacturing. In addition, sectors that depend on households’ discretionary spending continue to report weak demand. Most businesses say they are continuing with existing investment projects, particularly projects aimed at maintaining capacity and improving productivity. In the oil and gas sector, many businesses expect only a modest impact on their near-term investment and production decisions. However, a tariff would make projects less attractive to investors over the medium term. Certainly, households and businesses expect trade tensions to lead to higher prices. This is reflected in a recent rise in their short-term inflation expectations. This is the tense situation in which the federal election campaign is being conducted. Undoubtedly, we can expect to see more interesting days, with more surprises to come. One interesting development has been the involvement of former Prime Minister Stephen Harper in the Conservative Party campaign. He was not very committed in previous campaigns, but this time he came out forcefully in favor of the leader of the Conservative Party, Pierre Poilievre. Let us hope that once the election campaign is over, Canadians will have a more predictable and a strong government to deal with the very serious issues we face both at home and abroad. Hope for the best and let your voice be heard. Get out and VOTE.

Is a renter always a tenant?

Is a renter always a tenant? By Theresa Grant Real estate columnist Renting in the province of Ontario doesn’t always mean you’re considered a tenant. As such, not everyone is protected under the RTA, The residential Tenancies Act. Whether or not you are covered under the Residential Tenancies Act depends on the type of accommodation you are renting. If you are renting an apartment in a large building with multiple units for instance, you would be considered a tenant. As such, you would be covered under the Residential Tenancies act. If you are renting a room in a house where your landlord or the owner of the house also lives, you would be considered a boarder or a lodger. If you are renting a self-contained basement apartment with a separate entrance, and the owner of the house, the landlord or landlady lives upstairs, you would be considered a tenant. It can get confusing. Renting rooms in a house where the owner or landlord does not reside, is different yet again. If that is the case, you would be considered a tenant. Rooming houses were a way of life many years ago especially in populated cities like Toronto. That may have been a person’s first home away from home as they migrated to the city for work or school. Over the years, their popularity dwindled and, in some cases, became neglected run-down fire traps. There are very strict fire regulations on the registered rooming houses that remain. There are a few registered rooming houses here in Oshawa. They are inspected by the fire department on a regular basis. The official inspection pass is usually located just inside the front door along with the occupancy maximum. They are run like a business because that is what they are considered. As rents surged over the last few years, rooming houses seem to have regained some popularity. If you are living in a four-bedroom house and the owner and or the owner’s family also reside in the house, you are a boarder or a lodger. You are not covered under the Residential Tenancies Act. One helpful notation to all of this confusion seems to be that if you are renting a space within the home of the landlord or landlady, and you do not have a kitchen or bath, you are then considered a lodger as opposed to a tenant. It is always recommended to know your rights and responsibilities when it comes to renting and always know whether you are considered a tenant or a boarder.

A TALE OF TWO MAYORS AND A D.E.I CULTURE GONE MAD THE ISSUES AND DEBATES THAT HAVE SHAPED THE WEEK

A TALE OF TWO MAYORS AND A D.E.I CULTURE GONE MAD THE ISSUES AND DEBATES THAT HAVE SHAPED THE WEEK By Dean Hickey THIS WEEK WE DIRECT OUR ATTENTION toward events which, by themselves, have displayed a range of unhealthy moral and philosophical principles, all of which account for much of what is lacking in the way we are governed. It is impossible at times, notwithstanding the most strenuous exertions, to raise the acuity of some among the elected officials who now occupy certain city council chambers. Readers of this column may surely grasp this reality as we consider recent social media posts that are generating plenty of controversy. PICKERING’S MAYOR ASHE TAKES TO SOCIAL MEDIA To even the most casual observer, the tensions that have plagued Pickering City Council so far this term are nothing less than troubling to residents within the community as well as some among the municipality’s staff. The source of this conflict continues to be a matter for debate, however, over the course of six days last month, Mayor Kevin Ashe took to Facebook in an attempt to offer up a series of provocative comments aimed at his well-known adversary, Ward 1 City councillor Lisa Robinson. The unfortunate narrative began with a post on March 22 in which the Mayor described councillor Robinson as a ‘hypocrite” suggesting she was “The only Councillor who has been found to breach our gifts policy…” This, as one might expect, gave rise to a public debate between the Mayor and his outspoken colleague. Their exchanges included the following remarks as each sought to outdo the other in what could only be described as an online sparring match: Ashe: “You can’t follow the rules. Why don’t you start there?” Robinson: “”Why don’t you start following the current rules?” Ashe: “I follow the rules…” Robinson: “Stop deflecting, Mr. Mayor. Why won’t you second the motion to ban gifts and benefits?” If that public display of animosity and schoolyard banter wasn’t enough, Mayor Ashe posted yet again on March 26, suggesting councillor Robinson take a leave of absence due to her having recently been selected as a federal candidate in a neighbouring riding. That post appears to have been removed, however, another was added in its place a mere 24 hours later. This time, the debate has been considerable, with one participant suggesting to the Mayor, “It’s actually embarrassing watching you whine about her” and another saying, “This bickering back and forth between Ashe and Robinson is unprofessional.” Perhaps the most memorable comment was offered by councillor Robinson herself when she told the Mayor, “Looks like I’ve taken up permanent residence in your thoughts…” The situation continues to unfold for all the world to see, and whether one agrees with Mayor Ashe or his opponent in the debate, this little exhibition of ‘catch me if you can’ does nothing but diminish the Office of the Mayor, and that is something everyone over at Pickering city hall needs to understand. OSHAWA’S MAYOR CARTER BUILDS A BUREAUCRATIC EMPIRE “At this particular time, I have embraced the Strong Mayor Powers, and I just want to remind everyone of that.” Those comments were made by Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter as some councillors attempted to debate a few key components of his tax-and-spend agenda. It began during a debate over public engagement opportunities for future budget deliberations, namely that a special meeting of council be held on a pre-scheduled weeknight this coming autumn to listen to residents’ concerns. Ward 5 Regional councillor Brian Nicholson was unequivocal in his comments to the Mayor as to how such a meeting may be perceived. “It leaves the impression that Council has some kind of authority or power in this process.” He went on to add, “When we say to the public that Council is going to listen and… control the budget process, we are misleading the public.” It is known that councillors attempted to bring forward amendments to last year’s budget, only to be vetoed by Mayor Carter as part of his overwhelming embrace of the supreme powers bestowed upon him by the Provincial government. Local taxpayers were subsequently faced with an increase in spending and staffing levels, to be paid for by a whopping 7.87% tax increase, far above that of the previous year, which amounted to less than 4%. The proposal for greater public input on the budgetary process was ultimately voted down, not only by the Mayor, but also councillors Bob Chapman, John Gray, John Neal, and Rick Kerr. Undeterred, councillor Nicholson went on to move a motion that “Council recommends a budget increase target of not more than 4% in 2026.” This proposal was ultimately successful, but without the support of the Mayor and certain councillors apparently unwilling to rule out another major tax increase, including Derek Giberson, Jim Lee, and Rick Kerr. OSHAWA DEI CHAMPIONS AWARDS PROGRAM Last week I told readers of this column about efforts within some municipalities, particularly the City of Toronto, to create an unelected council seat for a representative of the Indigenous community, part of a broad-reaching mandate by that city’s in-house Diversity Equity and Inclusion (D.E.I.) bureaucracy. Last week, Oshawa councillors approved an initiative by their own staff to establish a ‘Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Champions Awards Program’ with an inaugural awards presentation scheduled for Spring 2026. For those who believe solely in the inherent fairness associated with a merit-based approach towards hiring and other selection processes, the staff report considered by Council is nothing more than an affirmative action and racial preferences mandate. The intent of the report is to see a government-initiated extension of D.E.I. initiatives toward individuals, schools, businesses, charities, and non-profit organizations, all under the guise of a so-called rewards program. The ideology behind this type of approach has rightly become a target of criticism, as the focus is inevitably on ‘identity’ over merit, leading to quotas and forced representation rather than on skills and qualifications. Certain among the anti-racism policies and other such programs which seek to foster a welcoming environment, fairness in the application of our laws, and the protection of individual rights are all positive steps. The mandate associated with overall D.E.I. ideology, however, may be seen as less valuable, and certainly less trustworthy. A COLLECTIVE DISPLAY OF RECKLESS IDEAS The unfortunate aspects of our political culture highlighted in this week’s column display, in a special manner, the truth of what this newspaper has heretofore identified as weaknesses within the democratic process. We see it as a waste of votes when citizens elect officials who start making decisions based on self-interest rather than those of the community which put them into office in the first place. Embarrassing debates on social media, a reckless disregard for over-burdened taxpayers, and the approval of policies that will only seek to divide rather than unify, are all part of a pattern bordering on ineptitude. Meanwhile, the threat of significant global economic challenges looms overhead, and will require a renewed focus among municipal councils on what really matters, being the economy and the creation of jobs. Let us hope common sense prevails.

OPINION: The Conservative & Liberal Parties Don’t Own Your Vote --- You Do ---

OPINION: The Conservative & Liberal Parties Don’t Own Your Vote --- You Do --- By Councillor Lisa Robinson Let’s talk about democracy. Not the kind politicians love to plaster on lawn signs — I mean real democracy. The kind where you choose your candidate, not some backroom party boss. Because what’s happening right now in Canada — and right here in Pickering–Brooklin — is a betrayal of everything democracy is supposed to stand for. The Conservative Party has handpicked candidates in approximately 90 ridings across the country, including ours. That means grassroots candidates who spent over a year knocking on doors, meeting residents, building relationships, and pouring their own time and money into earning a nomination were pushed aside at the last second. Why? Because they weren’t part of the inner circle. That’s not democracy. That’s elitism. And it gets worse. Our Liberal candidate isn’t even from Pickering–Brooklin — they’re being parachuted in from Markham. Meanwhile, the Conservative candidate doesn’t live here either, and she’s already proven she doesn’t share the values of real conservatives. This is someone who pushed vaccines on children and tried to bribe marginalized communities with dance parties and gift cards to get the jab. Is that conservative? That’s government overreach, coercion, and the exact opposite of bodily autonomy. And let’s not forget — she wasn’t voted in by the people. She was handpicked by Doug Ford, the very Premier who rammed through vaccine passports, locked down small businesses, and divided communities. If that’s not a follower looking for a paycheck, I don’t know what is. And if we ever face another medical or social crisis again, do you really believe this person will protect your job, your family, or your bodily autonomy? Because I don’t. And neither should you. If the party can’t even respect the basic right of members to choose their own nominee, what makes you think their candidate will respect you as a constituent? They weren’t chosen by you. They were chosen for you — and that’s the problem. And while they’ve been silent, collecting their endorsements and avoiding tough conversations, I’ve been the only elected official in this riding willing to stand up — and pay the price for it. I’ve been unpaid for nine months because I spoke the truth and refused to back down. Not one of these candidates said a word in support. Why? Because they don’t want to upset the system. They don’t rock the boat — they row it. So no — voting for what you believe in is not splitting the vote. That’s just a lie designed to control you. It’s how they keep you in fear, voting for the “lesser of two evils.” But ask yourself: what has that gotten you? More of the same. More mandates. More lockdowns. More broken promises. The Conservatives don’t own your vote. The Liberals don’t own your vote. You own your vote. And you deserve to give it to someone who will fight for you — not someone who’s just waiting to cash a paycheque and follow orders. This is your moment. If we want real change, we have to vote like it. Don’t vote out of fear. Vote with courage. Vote with conviction. Vote for someone who has already shown they’ll stand up — even when it costs them everything. Because the ballot belongs to the people. Let’s start acting like it. I am Councillor Lisa Robinson, The People’s Councillor

TrumpedChumpedand left for Stupid…

trumped chumped and left for stupid... By Joe Ingino B.A. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States Sometimes I feel like I am the only one awake. Does no one else see the business move Trump is pulling on the world and everyone is falling for it? Trump comes from the corporate world. A place where you have to win all the time. Open challenge normally is met with total annihilation. Or in what we all have got to know as ‘YOUR FIRED’. Challenging Trump on the Tariffs is economic suicide. Look at what is taking place in Canada. Before tariffs were even sanctioned. Companies laid off. Companies threaten economic downfall. Suppliers, threatened price increases.... What Trump has done is expose the vultures in our economy. The vultures that look for any opportunity to slim the work force and increase prices. Much like this crap about ‘BUY CANADIAN’. The question is why have we not been buying Canadian all along? Why because traditionally Canadian made products cost more. So people obviously went with China and the U.S. Look at the local municipalities for example. They are all quick for the photo opportunity, extending opinion and resolve on an issue they have no clue what they are saying other than parrot what the main media spews. FEAR MONGERING. This is ridiculous. Personally, I think what Trump has done should be a wake up call to all average hard working taxpayers. We are getting ripped off. Our tax dollars are being wasted. Back to Trump. What do we do. NOTHING. Let him put tariffs on us. Let him think he has won. Then, when he comes around wanting something. Here is where we negotiate for a Canada win. Us imposing tariffs on U.S. goods does nothing for our economy and puts us on a weak spot in future negotiations. As every attempt to negotiate will lead to the same resolve. We as Canadians have to be smarter. Trump worries about borders. Ok, we as a sovereign nation. Will open all our borders across Canada. No security. Let the Americans build another wall to the north. As for the pipeline. Sure let’s build it. But we would claim special building funds for the next 100 years for crossing our land. A lease of sort. As for U.S. goods coming to Canada. No Tariff. Let’s pull what China has for years. Use American goods and services to strength our country. Charge double on their needs without mentioning tariff. Remember it not personal it’s good sound business.

Turn Off the Panic: Why Pre-Planning a Death Matters

Turn Off the Panic: Why Pre-Planning a Death Matters By Dale Jodoin Inspired by a father’s real experience When someone dies, there is sadness, confusion, and sometimes even panic. Most people don’t realize that when a loved one dies, the family has to make more than 80 decisions within just a few days. These decisions are hard, and they cost money. For low-income families, this can be too much to handle. The person writing this article saw their father go through it. When a close family member passed, their father had to make dozens of decisions while grieving. It was painful, stressful, and expensive. That’s why this article was written — to help other families get ready before it happens. There’s good news. You can plan ahead. It’s called pre-planning, and it can help your family save time, money, and pain when the time comes. This article explains what pre-planning is, why it matters, and how to do it — even if you don’t have a lot of money. What Is Pre-Planning? Pre-planning means making choices about what you want after you die — before it happens. This can include things like: Do you want to be buried or cremated? Do you want a big funeral or something small? Who do you want to handle your belongings? What music or prayers do you want at your service? It may feel strange to think about death. But planning ahead is one of the kindest things you can do for your family. Why Pre-Planning Is Important When someone dies, loved ones are often shocked and upset. At the same time, they have to make lots of quick decisions. These choices can be hard, especially when people don’t know what the person wants. Families may argue or feel guilt. Some people end up spending too much money, thinking it shows more love. Pre-planning helps in three ways: It takes pressure off your family. It helps avoid arguments and confusion. It saves money. When you make these decisions in advance, your family can just follow your wishes. That way, they can spend more time supporting each other instead of stressing out. What If I Don’t Have a Lot of Money? Many people think pre-planning is only for the rich. That’s not true. Even if you’re low-income, you can still plan. In fact, it’s even more important for families with tight budgets. Here are some money-saving tips for pre-planning: Cremation is often cheaper than burial. Simple caskets can still be respectful and beautiful. You don’t need a fancy hall — services can be held at home, in a church, or at a community center. You don’t need flowers or catering — a potluck or snack table is fine. The most important thing is to be clear about what you want. That saves your family from guessing and spending money they don’t have. The 87 Decisions Families Must Make You might be surprised, but when someone dies, the family must quickly make up to 87 decisions. Here are just a few examples: Who do we call first? Which funeral home do we use? What kind of service do we have? What clothes will they wear? What day will the funeral be? What music will be played? Who will speak at the funeral? What do we do with their bank accounts? How many death certificates do we need? These are hard questions to answer quickly. That’s why pre-planning helps so much. Create a Death Checklist Making a simple checklist helps keep things organized. Here’s an easy one you can copy and fill in: Your Simple Pre-Planning Checklist Who do I want to handle when I die? Name: ________________________________ Do I want a burial or cremation? [ ] Burial [ ] Cremation Where should I be buried or have my ashes placed? Do I want a funeral service? [ ] Yes [ ] No If yes, where: ________________________ What music or reading would I like? Do I have a will? [ ] Yes [ ] No If yes, where is it kept? _____________ Tip: Find a lawyer who can help for free — many legal clinics and community centers offer this service. Do I want people to donate money to a cause instead of sending flowers? Cause: _______________________________ What should happen to my pets? Who should be told about my death right away? Any special instructions or wishes? Keep this checklist somewhere safe, like in a file marked “In Case of Death,” and tell a trusted friend or family member where to find it. Talk About It Now — Not Later It’s okay to talk about death. It doesn’t mean you’re giving up. It means you care about the people you’ll leave behind. Sit down with your family and say, “I want to make things easier for you when the time comes.” Some people also choose to talk to a local funeral home, church, or community group. Many offer free help with planning. Don’t Forget About Help In Canada, some provinces and cities offer death benefit programs for people with low income. These can help pay for a basic cremation or burial. You can also ask your local social services office or Indigenous support groups if you qualify for help. Some charities and churches also help families with final costs. It’s always okay to ask. Final Thoughts: Love Never Forgets Planning for death doesn’t take away from life. In fact, it protects the people you love. By making these decisions now, you give your family a gift: peace of mind. You don’t need a lot of money to plan. You just need a little time, a pen, and love in your heart. Remember — love never forgets. And that’s what pre-planning is all about.