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. _________________________________________________________________________ Sign-up at www.docgiff.com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, contact-us@docgiff.com. Follow us Instagram @docgiff and @diana_gifford_jones

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.

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. This year we are starting a new program. Want to leave a legacy behind and contribute the championing of freedom to the press? We are accepting in ‘memoriam’ contributions and your name will go on a standing list of contributors over the years. The list will live for ever in your memory...

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. _________________________________________________________________________ Sign-up at www.docgiff.com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, contact-us@docgiff.com. Follow us Instagram @docgiff and @diana_gifford_jones

From a Mundane Routine to an Exciting Opportunity - How to Make the Most of the 2025-2026 School Year

From a Mundane Routine to an Exciting Opportunity - How to Make the Most of the 2025-2026 School Year By Camryn Bland Youth Columnist Practically every teenager loves summer vacation, a time filled with sports, friends, travel, and part time jobs. As of Tuesday, September 2nd, summer vacation has officially come to an end, as students begin to fill classrooms for another year. Despite the anxiety which comes from high school, I am a grade 11 student who is excited to resume learning. To me, a new year is about more than a classroom and homework; it’s about seeing my friends, having a stable routine, taking part in extracurriculars, and studying interesting content. When viewed this way, going back to school doesn’t feel mundane or frustrating, but enjoyable and exciting. As a high-performing student and active member of my school community, I’ve discovered a few strategies and lessons to ensure success in the upcoming academic year, which I plan to apply daily. The back-to-school season begins long before the first day of class. A few weeks prior, stores advertise backpacks, stationary, and uniforms, which is when school preparation begins. Although shopping for these necessary supplies may feel tedious, it can be surprisingly enjoyable with a little bit of planning. In addition to proper bags and stationary, one item I always recommend is a yearly planner with daily to-do lists and monthly calendars. Planners help keep track of assignments and tests, so you can manage your time accordingly. There are many designs to choose from at Indigo, Staples, and Amazon. A planner is one step to properorganization, the key to a successful school year for every student. It is easy to get caught up in the preparations and commotion of a new year, however it’s important to reflect before the first day. Take a few minutes to write down your goals for this year; you can make a list, a collage, or a vision board to help visualize what you want to accomplish. Is there a sports team you want to join, or a grade average you’re aiming for? Once you know what you want from this year, consider how you are going to achieve it. You may need to practice your sport regularly, create a study schedule, or build healthy habits. This mindful preparation is the key to achieving your goals, one attainable step at a time. Getting ready for a new academic year includes more than shopping and goal setting, it’s also important to create a proper routine. There are a few practical steps to take to ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible. A week before school begins, it’s important to start resetting your sleep schedule, so your body adjusts to waking early. Some individuals choose to prepare meals at the beginning of each week, so they don’t have to worry about cooking or buying food during the day. Students with busy calendars may create a study schedule, to ensure they have time for everything they need to do. These are just some of the many preparations which can be done beforehand to reduce stress once school begins. Regardless of what your routine entails, it’s important to add enjoyment to it and romanticize the season. Listen to a playlist and light candles while studying to make the task more amusing. Do your daily homework with friends at a library, or reward yourself for reaching small goals. Find a routine which is both efficient and enjoyable, one that gets you excited for the day and satisfied with how you spend your time. School may feel demanding, but it may also feel rewarding and interesting if you take the time to enjoy it. Beyond your day-to-day routine, school is also a place to discover unique opportunities. Whether you’re starting at a new school or entering your senior year, it’s never too late to explore something new. Education is a powerful, unique opportunity, not just to learn, but to grow as a person. I have tried out for the school debate team, student council, school musicals, and more. Each activity came with its own worries, and many times, I questioned if I was capable of doing everything. Yet, I tried anyway. This is the only way to grow as a person, and to make the most of your opportunities; by trying. Whether it’s an academic challenge or an extracurricular adventure, you never know what you’re capable of until you try. Regardless of your goals for the 2025-2026 school year, I hope you take the time to ensure you have all the necessary supplies, mindfully set goals, create an enjoyable routine, and take risks. School is about more than a diploma or a grade, it’s also about opportunities and life lessons. Do not let your education pass without making the most of it; engage in extracurriculars, take interesting courses, and meet new people. This, in addition to proper organization and an efficient study schedule, will ensure you have a balanced, enjoyable, and efficient academic year.

In 2025, Job Search Success Requires a Strong ‘Want It’ Factor

In 2025, Job Search Success Requires a Strong ‘Want It’ Factor By Nick Kossovan When you want something badly enough, you'll find a way to get it. In the context of job searching success, only one factor matters: how badly do you want a job? I see it all the time: job seekers claiming to want a job, yet their actions suggest otherwise. · No LinkedIn banner · No LinkedIn profile picture · Resume and LinkedIn profile filled with opinions instead of number-hitting achievements · No attempts at connecting with those who can help them with their job search · Clinging to limiting beliefs and false narratives · Playing the "I'm a victim of [whatever]!' card Often, when I review a job seeker's resume, LinkedIn profile, and digital footprint, I wonder, "Do they really want a job?" Many job seekers aren't willing—it's easier to complain—to put in more effort than was required in past job markets is where the disconnect is happening. In 2025, amid fierce competition for the rapidly dwindling number of white-collar jobs, getting hired isn't happening for those who "kinda want it." "You're hired!" is reserved for those willing to sacrifice comfort and ignore distractions, like the pity party on LinkedIn. A strong desire to find a job is merely the starting point. You must turn your burning desire into tangible actions. Your Digital Billboard Your LinkedIn banner serves as your "digital billboard" and "digital business card," giving potential employers a sense of who you are and what you do. If it's blank or at best "Meh!", you're not a serious job seeker. Essentially, you're signalling that you're okay with missing opportunities because you're too lazy to take advantage of this highly visible space. Show Your Face Not including a profile picture makes your profile seem as if you're a bot or scammer, sending the message: "I'm hiding something." Serious job seekers have professional-looking photos. A lack of a profile picture suggests you're okay with being ignored. Craft a Compelling Summary Most LinkedIn summaries are blah, blah, blah... They don't offer a compelling career story, which makes them uninspiring. Put in the effort; if needed, seek professional help to write your summary that will make the reader say, "I've got to meet this person!" Quantify Your Achievements Your resume and LinkedIn profile need to be filled with measurable evidence of your previous impact. It's lazy thinking to expect employers to figure out if you can deliver measurable value. Most profiles read like a list of opinions. Employers hire based on results, not rhetoric. If you're not highlighting your achievements with concrete numbers, don't expect recruiters and employers to reach out to you. Networking with Purpose Job seekers with a strong desire for a job understand that opportunities are all around them; the catch is that they're attached to people. Therefore, they talk to everyone and don't use the "I'm an introvert" excuse. They know that applying online is expecting a stranger to hire them, which is equivalent to playing the lottery. They comprehend that networking with purpose is how you transform yourself from "stranger" to "I know the perfect person for [opportunity]." The more people know you and your work, the more opportunities come your way. Nowadays, when it's easier than ever to make yourself known, it boggles my mind when I meet job seekers who've been doing what they do for 15-20 years, lacking a broad professional network and a solid reputation. Most people don't want to spend the time and energy building and maintaining a professional network. Ironically, when they find themselves in a situation such as job searching, where a professional network would be a considerable advantage, they regret not having put in the effort. Networking Tip: When you meet someone for the first time, ask yourself, "How can I help this person?" Stop Blaming Others Many job seekers blame ATS, AI, and the way employers and recruiters assess candidates for not getting hired. They point fingers at everything and everyone except themselves. They never pause to consider: what about those who are getting hired? They underwent the same hiring process. The way employers hire isn't the problem; it's the lazy thinking that your resume will do the work to get you noticed. This narrative only works if you're the only applicant, which you aren't. Getting hired doesn't "just happen." It requires you to: · Make a clear case for why the employer should hire you. · Demonstrate how you'll deliver results, not just discuss your potential. · Engage in genuine conversations, not just unsubstantiated hope. · Using numbers, clarify what you've delivered in the past and outline what you plan to bring to a new employer. (What you're ready to do next.) · Present a 120-day action plan that walks the employer through how you plan to hit the ground running. · Offer to do an assignment (gasp!) to prove you can walk your talk and that you're not one of the many bad actors in today's job market. Others getting hired proves it's possible for you, too. Look in the mirror; are you putting in the work they did? Are you acknowledging that to succeed in today's job market, you need to want it (a job) badly enough and translate this to your job search efforts? ___________________________________________________________________________ Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned corporate veteran, offers “unsweetened” job search advice. Send Nick your job search questions to artoffindingwork@gmail.com.

When Classrooms Turn Dark

When Classrooms Turn Dark By Dale Jodoin A federal report reveals one in six antisemitic incidents in Ontario schools involve teachers. What happens when blame becomes part of the lesson plan? Most people want to believe schools are safe spaces. Teachers are trusted to guide young people toward knowledge and fairness. And for the majority, that trust is well-earned. But a new government study has exposed a dangerous minority. In February 2025, Canadian Heritage released The Report on Antisemitism in Ontario Schools. It tracked more than 780 reports of antisemitic incidents across the province between October 2023 and January 2025. The number that stood out: nearly one in six of those cases 17 percent involved teachers or school-sanctioned activities. That’s not playground gossip. It’s government data. And it forces us to ask: what happens when the people meant to protect kids are the ones planting harm? “Nearly one in six antisemitic incidents in Ontario schools were linked to teachers themselves.” The Report on Antisemitism in Ontario Schools, Canadian Heritage, 2025 The report tells of Jewish students mocked or shamed in class, made to feel responsible for wars half a world away. One girl recalled that whenever the Middle East came up, classmates turned to stare at her while the teacher stayed silent. Others described slurs that went unchallenged, or comments that made their very identity feel like a crime. And it’s not just Jewish children. Caucasian boys white boys in general are often singled out, not for behavior, but for skin and gender. The message they hear sometimes openly, sometimes between the lines is that their identity makes them guilty. By high school, many have learned silence is safer than speaking. The danger is obvious: once schools normalize blaming one group, that same habit can swing toward others. Words from peers sting. Words from a teacher's scar. Authority has weight. When an adult suggests a child “is the problem,” the message lodges deep. Psychologists call this internalized blame. It starts in middle school, turns to silence in high school, and hardens into conformity by university. By then, questioning the script is treated not as curiosity but as harm. Students are rewarded for slogans, not reasoning. We’ve seen this before. Every society that forgets, every system that lets anger turn into targeting, begins with the young. Children are the first to carry the burden of collective blame. Ontario’s numbers are a warning. One in six isn’t small. It’s a signal. The Numbers 781 antisemitic incidents reported in Ontario schools (2023–2025) 1 in 6 involved teachers or school-sanctioned events Nearly 17% of cases were authority-driven, not peer-driven Report commissioned by Canadian Heritage, published February 2025 Most teachers are not part of this. The majority guide with fairness, challenge respectfully, and protect their students. But a dangerous minority, exposed in the government’s own data, cannot be ignored. Seventeen percent means this isn’t rare enough to dismiss. It means real children Jewish kids, Caucasian boys, and others are being shaped by shame instead of learning. If classrooms want to heal, the rules must be simple: Criticize actions, not identities. Teach history with multiple perspectives, not slogans. Protect debate, but punish harassment even when it comes from a teacher. The Report on Antisemitism in Ontario Schools isn’t just a tally of incidents. It’s a warning flare. When blame enters the classroom, children pay the price first. Today it’s Jewish students. Yesterday it was Caucasian boys. Tomorrow, it could be someone else entirely. The saddest part is that we don’t seem to learn. We tell ourselves schools are safer, kinder, more aware and yet kids still sit at their desks feeling ashamed for who they are. Authority, the very thing that should lift them up, is sometimes what pushes them down. Most teachers are good. They care deeply, and they carry a heavy load. But when even a minority trade education for blame, the echo doesn’t end with one lesson. It stretches for years, shaping how young people see themselves and each other. We can’t allow that echo to become the new normal.

Creating or Consuming Why Creating Art is Necessary in Everyday Life

Creating or Consuming Why Creating Art is Necessary in Everyday Life By Camryn Bland Youth Columnist Creating art is a key component of humanity, something which our species has done for thousands of years. From parietal art to historical sculptures, we naturally gravitate toward creating throughout our lives. From a young age, we engage in arts and crafts, dancing, drawing, and storytelling. These activities are not just for entertainment purposes, but also to improve problem solving, communication, confidence, memory, and intelligence. Despite these benefits, we often disregard creativity in pursuit of simplicity and conventionality as we grow older. We instead spend our days consuming the content which has already been made, forgetting our individual crafts. This artistic oversight can be extremely harmful, as we begin to miss out on the countless benefits of creativity. When we think of art, we often consider professional, timeless pieces, such as Van Gogh's paintings or Shakespeare's plays. We envision perfection which has been passed down for generations, analyzed for deeper meanings and significance. Studying these impactful pieces can give us great insight into societies past and present, however it can also be the root of our issue. Our society has placed an unrealistic standard of perfection on art, which has caused most people to abandon the true point of creating; it’s not about fame or audience, but expression and connection. Not every piece needs to be worthy of greatness, they just need to be authentically yours. Until recently, I never considered myself a creative person. I have always disliked drawing, painting, and dancing. I am clueless regarding musical instruments, and I often give up on writing projects. I felt uninspired and talentless until last year, when I committed to theatre. Through my school's regional arts program, I have learnt to express myself through words, movement, and execution. I have directed, designed costumes, analyzed characters, managed backstage, interpreted soundtracks, and acted in multiple productions, with each task teaching me something different about both the arts and myself. Through these experiences, I have built a strong community of friends, developed critical thinking skills, and further evolved my sense of self. Since I discovered my passion for theatre, I have begun to understand creativity's role in everyday life through common tasks and hobbies. In my daily life, I am creative through baking, crafting, journaling, sewing, and taking photos. Day by day, we have the opportunity to learn, experiment and create, in whichever way works for us. You do not need to paint or act to be creative; you just need to experiment and express yourself. Art acts as an expressive outlet for our emotions and thoughts, which develops a thorough sense of self not otherwise possible. Emotions are rarely straightforward, making it difficult to understand what you’re feeling and why. Through paintings, film, theatre, dance, poetry, and music, many individuals are able to express and understand their emotions with a unique depth. Additionally, creativity has been tied to stress reduction, confidence in accomplishments, and brain stimulation. Engaging in the arts can serve as both a strategy to understand emotions and to redirect your energy, proving useful to every individual's mental health. In 2025, it is easy to get overwhelmed by the content which floods our lives, making it difficult to understand who you are and what you want. The art of creating can keep you grounded, connected, and understanding of yourself, rather than living through the eyes of others. It does not matter what you make and your purpose for making it, all that matters is that you continue despite the difficulties. It’s time to stop consuming the opinions and pressures of others; instead, it’s time to pick up a pen, a guitar, or a script. Instead, it’s time to create.

Canada’s Bill C-2: A New Threat

Canada’s Bill C-2: A New Threat By Dale Jodoin Canada’s Parliament is debating Bill C-2, the Strong Borders Act. The government says it will stop smugglers, fight organized crime, and keep Canadians safe. But hidden in the bill are sweeping surveillance powers that reach far beyond border checks. Bill C-2 would let police, border agents, and intelligence services: Demand personal details from phone and internet providers. Track travel history, financial records, and online accounts on “reasonable suspicion.” Share that information with foreign governments, including the United States, with weak safeguards. These powers bypass the oversight of judges. Traditionally, warrants ensured that police only entered private lives when evidence justified it. Bill C-2 breaks that safeguard. Once powers like this are written into law, they rarely vanish. They survive governments, ready to be used by whoever is in charge. Why Oversight Matters Oversight is the shield of democracy. A warrant system forces government agencies to justify intrusion. Lowering that standard to “reasonable suspicion” invites abuse. Security experts warn of mission creep: powers granted for one purpose slowly expand to others. A law written for smugglers could easily be turned on critics, protesters, or journalists. Governments argue these tools are needed for safety. But once surveillance becomes ordinary, it grows quietly until freedom shrinks without anyone noticing. The Shock from England For proof, look at England. In 2016, the UK passed the Investigatory Powers Act, often called the Snooper’s Charter. It promised protection against terrorism. The law required internet providers to store everyone’s online history for a year. Security agencies could access that data without a judge. Police were given authority to hack into devices and read private messages. At first, this was framed as anti-terror. But over time, the scope expanded. Protest organisers, journalists, and ordinary citizens became subjects of surveillance. Public order rules combined with spying powers to manage dissent. In some cases, people faced police visits or fines simply for statements critical of government policy. The chilling effect was immediate. Activists moderated their language. Journalists thought twice before pursuing sensitive stories. Citizens held back their opinions. Safety had become the excuse for control. The Canadian Risk The parallels with Bill C-2 are undeniable. Both laws: Promise security but grant wide surveillance. Reduce judicial oversight. Use vague definitions of “threat.” Permit broad data-sharing abroad. Canada risks following the same path as England. Once the tools exist, they will be used — and not just at the border. Free Speech at Risk Free speech is more than the right to talk. It is the confidence to speak without fear. If Canadians believe their words and messages are being stored, many will go silent. That silence weakens democracy. Debate narrows, media hesitates, and citizens avoid speaking against government policy. In England, that reality is already visible. Bill C-2 could bring the same culture of self-censorship here. The Conservative Opposition Conservative MPs have raised alarms, arguing Canada already has laws to fight smuggling and crime with judicial oversight. They warn that Bill C-2 tips the balance, giving the government unchecked power. Their concern is for the future as much as the present. Surveillance powers do not fade away. They grow stronger with each new crisis and each new government. A Choice for Canada England shows what happens when freedoms are traded for safety. Rights are not lost in one moment. They are chipped away, one small step at a time. Canada faces that same choice. Do we accept a law that prioritises surveillance over liberty? Or do we demand security measures that also respect the rights of citizens? Three Word Warning The warning is simple: Democracy in Danger. Bill C-2 may not punish critics today, but it creates the framework for future governments to do so. We should not wait until Canadians are questioned for their words to recognise the risk. By then, the system will already be in place. A Word to Our Readers If this investigation has shown you what is at stake, act now. Contact your Member of Parliament. Ask where they stand. Speak to your friends and neighbours. And if you value journalism that investigates threats to democracy, let our office know you appreciated this work. Reader feedback ensures that freedom, privacy, and accountability remain part of Canada’s national debate. Your voice matters in Parliament, in the press, and in the defence of democracy itself.

Glamorizing Sexuality in Schools is Harming Our Kids

Glamorizing Sexuality in Schools is Harming Our Kids By Councillor Lisa Robinson This year, it’s time to raise strong, confident children who know their value comes from being human — not from a label. As the 2025 - 2026 school year begins, parents, teachers, and students must ask: are we truly preparing children for life — or are we exposing them to confusing messages and adult agendas that could harm them? Schools should teach reading, writing, math, and character. Yet many classrooms have become social experiments, filled with identity labels, sexual themes, and divisive categories that pit students against each other. No child should ever be bullied or feel unsafe because of who they are. That is obvious. But the current approach is not protection — it’s confusion. It sends a message: some children deserve the spotlight, while others are invisible. Consider straight students who receive no recognition while other sexualities are celebrated. Every child wants to feel special, to be seen and recognized. When straight children are overlooked, some may go along with what is being presented — even if it doesn’t reflect who they are — just to feel acknowledged. That is not equality — that is favoritism. Glamorizing sexuality in front of children is not protection. It is adult content thrust on minds that are not ready. And then we wonder why anxiety, confusion, and even suicide rates among youth continue to rise. Parents need to be informed. Children should never be placed in situations where they are told to hide things or lie about what is happening in school. No safe, no good adult would ever instruct a child to deceive their parents — ever. Teachers, staff, and administrators must remember that respecting family boundaries is part of protecting children. If we truly care about children’s mental health, we must: Teach respect, kindness, courage, and resilience. Stop dividing students by labels and identities. Protect children from bullying without pushing ideology. Remind every child — straight, gay, religious, or non-religious — that their value comes from being human, not from a label. Remind children that it’s okay to be young. Childhood is not a rehearsal for adulthood — they do not need to rush into adult decisions or activities. Their childhood is valuable and deserves protection. Fantasy is not reality Every child deserves to be seen — not for a label, but for who they are. That is real equality. That is fairness. That is how we will actually reduce youth suicide — not by injecting identity politics into every classroom. Children need stability, not confusion. They need role models, not agendas. They need schools that build them up, not break them down. This school year can be different. It can be better. Let’s stop glamorizing sexuality. Let’s stop giving attention and praise based on who a child says they are attracted to. Let’s raise strong, grounded, confident young people who know they matter — not because of a label, but because they are human beings of infinite worth. Parents, teachers, and children: let’s put our children first this school year. Let’s make this a year of clarity, respect, and real support for every child. Let children be children “No label defines a child. No agenda owns their childhood.” - Lisa Robinson 2025 Then my name,”…… Kind regards, Lisa Robinson “The People’s Councillor” City of Pickering “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

‘RESPECT’ THE FORGOTTEN WORD

‘RESPECT’ THE FORGOTTEN WORD By Joe Ingino BA. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States I don’t know about you. But I am so tired of watching news clips showing punks going nose to nose with police officers. Or the many politically motivated demonstrations assaulting police officers. Then when the police react... the protestor claim that it is his/her right to protests. What they forget that they have the right to ‘PEACEFUL’ protest. What has become of our duty to civility. To respect and common sense. Personally, I think the police use to much leniency. It has become fashionable to run from police... or to interpret the word, “STOP” as run faster. All in the name of fear for the police. Ideally, no one should fear the police. Do as instructed and in 99.9% of the times. You will walk without a scratch. But if you start telling police how to do their business or attempt to educate a police officer on law or your rights. You may just end up in jail. People show respect. Respect for the badge as they must comply with officers instruction and respect for themselves as they have a duty to co-operate in the name of civility. So what does Respect mean? Respect means having a high regard or admiration for someone or something, which involves acknowledging their worth, valuing their feelings and views, and treating them with consideration and care. It can also involve upholding basic rights and safety, accepting individuals for who they are, or showing deference to authority or rules. The act of respect is often learned and can be demonstrated through attentive and kind actions, fostering a sense of trust and safety. In this case recognize the authority of the badge. Respect your self worth and follow procedure in order to maintain the integrity of the badge and your physical integrity. Respect, also called esteem, is a positive feeling or deferential action shown towards someone or something considered important or held in high esteem or regard. It conveys a sense of admiration for good or valuable qualities. For both you and the officer. You must uphold that respect. If not then you get what you get. The police exercising their right under law. Meaning, you will be man handled and you may be arrested. You compromised your self respect and in turn that of the authority of law. For those protesting. I can’t believe how many riot police officers show so much patience and restrain. An assault on a police officer occurs in Canada when someone intentionally applies non-consensual force to a peace officer while they are lawfully performing their duties, or to someone assisting them. This includes any intentional physical contact or force without consent, and may even involve gestures that cause a reactive or defensive physical response. To secure a conviction, the Crown must prove the intentional application of force, the defendant's knowledge that the victim was an officer, and that the officer was acting in their official capacity. In other words. Let the police do their jobs and you will not feel as your rights are being violated and or you end up being assaulted by police in the process of being handcuffed. I feel for the police as they have a big job to do. Judgement plays a key role on whether they go home at the end of the shift... Police need to not back down in confrontation but show clear authority and use force to convey the consequences of someone getting in their face. Punks will be punks if we keep allowing them to continue thinking they are invincible.

2025 - Canada Under Fire

2025 - Canada Under Fire by Maj (ret’d) CORNELIU, CHISU, CD, PMSC FEC, CET, P.Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East As the summer plods along with challenging domestic and international problems, Canadians also face an unprecedented rash of forest fires with many communities affected from coast to coast to coast. It has really been a season and a year of extremes. Currently, Canada is in the grip of its second-worst wildfire season on record, with flames now stretching beyond the West into the Prairie and Atlantic provinces including Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Newfoundland and Labrador. The Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre says 7.5 million hectares have already burned in 2025, surpassing the 10-year average and reinforcing warnings that wildfire seasons are growing longer, more destructive and less predictable. Regions such as Alberta have been hit hard, with significant damages reported in popular areas like Jasper. Over the past weeks, raging, out-of-control wildfires have forced tens of thousands from their homes nationwide. In Manitoba alone, the Canadian Red Cross reports that it has helped more than 32,000 people evacuated from about 12,000 households. Recent years have been particularly challenging, with 2023 marking the worst wildfire season on record, where approximately 16 million hectares were scorched. The previous year also saw over five million hectares burned, highlighting a troubling trend in wildfire intensity and frequency across the country. In summary, the wildfire situation in Canada is critical with extensive areas affected, requiring ongoing efforts to manage and contain the fires. Drought is one example of root causes of wildfires. Canada is a big place and it is always dry somewhere, but not like this year. Agriculture Canada's map shows most of the country was abnormally dry. Large stretches of the Prairies were under at least moderate drought conditions, reaching extreme proportions in southern Alberta. In British Columbia, once the "wet coast," 28 of 34 river basins were at the province's top two drought levels. Ranchers were selling cattle that they could not grow enough hay to feed, and low stream flows threatened salmon runs. However, the effect of the prolonged heat was not restricted to the land. Waters off all three Canadian coasts have never been warmer. Hudson Bay is up to 30 C warmer. The Pacific coast is between 20 C and 40 C warmer. Both the Atlantic and Arctic coasts are 50 C above average. Then there were the fires that spread smoke across the continent and into Europe, where "Canadian wildfires" made headlines from the New York Times to Europe's nightly news. All 13 provinces and territories have been affected, often at the same time. Tens of thousands of people have been forced from their homes, hundreds of houses were destroyed and firefighters have been killed. If we look at the history of forest and vegetation fires in Canada in general, since the 1970s and 1980s, the total annual number of wildfires in Canada has decreased while the total area burned has increased, though there is variability from year to year. The number and size of large fires has increased since 1959, and the average fire season has become longer by about two weeks. In Canada, wildfire season usually starts in May. The 2023 fires have been compared to the 2016 Fort McMurray wildfire and the 2021 Lytton wildfire, but the fires this year were second worse. When people revert to blaming the now well-known slogan of “climate change” perpetuated by humans, we might do well to consider that the so-called ‘climate change’ is a natural and cyclic phenomenon depending on many variables, including the path of the earth in space. At the same time we must not ignore the basic issue of forest management. It seems that the political elite and elite scientists do not see the forest for the trees. Lightning causes roughly half of all wildfires in Canada; lightning strikes and lightning-caused fires are happening more frequently. Lightning-caused fires account for about 85% of land burned, often occurring in clusters in remote locations. The other half of wildfires in Canada are human-caused, often unintentionally sparked by discarded cigarette butts, abandoned smouldering campfires, sparks from braking trains and the like. However, let us face it: forest management is also a big factor in the cause/management of wildfires. So here we are; because Canada's forest management has focused on fire suppression, dry vegetation has accumulated on the forest floor. Canada has generally stopped performing controlled burns, which help reduce the risk of larger and more dangerous fires. It is difficult to get permission for controlled burns, especially for Indigenous groups who have historically performed them and are such disproportionately affected by wildfires. Canada lacks a national firefighting service, and local resources are stretched thin due to budget cuts. Pollution due to a global increase in wildfires has created widespread, long-term impacts on human health. Due to wildfire emissions, Canada has broken its record for annual carbon emissions several times. Have any of the so-called climate scientists calculated the contribution of forest fires to the total carbon emissions in Canada? Well ???? Furthermore, is there anyone in government or the public service working on or even considering establishing better forest management practices; a service long neglected by all levels of government in Canada? The answer seems to be a resounding NO. They introduce carbon taxes in various hidden forms, they subsidize fashionable electric vehicle batteries and spend on other politically correct projects, when the recent rash of forest fires in Canada has broken the record on carbon emissions and has made us the laughingstock of the world. It is time to seriously consider and invest in better forest management, rather than continue to spend huge amounts of money overseas and on politically correct pet projects. The forests are burning and people are suffering from coast to coast to coast, while politicians and their advisers in the Canadian public service are fiddling. Enough is enough! Canadians can do without more Neros! What do you think?

The Treadmill

The Treadmill By Wayne and Tamara Ten years ago I discovered a condom in my husband's jacket pocket. I assumed he was having an affair at work. On confronting him, he admitted to sex with prostitutes. He was devastated he had hurt me and, of course, I was never meant to find out. I tried to understand it from his point of view. We didn't have sex often, mostly because he was cold toward me, bossy and critical. Just when I had enough and threatened to leave, he would soften and things would settle down for awhile. This cycle went on for years. I went for counseling to explain both sides of the picture, as he made me feel it was my fault we weren't getting on. I must have been mad. Two years ago, shortly before my mother died of cancer, I discovered I had genital herpes, and my husband moved into the spare room. I assumed he was having sex with prostitutes though he assured me he was faithful. I wanted to believe him, but I never really trusted him after the first disclosure. I should have left or made him leave, but I felt powerless. Three months later I looked up sex addiction on the Internet. After reading many articles, I felt this was my husband's problem. I wrote him a letter saying I would stand by him, if he admitted this was the problem. One evening he asked me to come into his room. He was pale and shivering. He disclosed 15 years of sex addiction--sex with men in parks and public toilets, prostitutes, and an affair. I was living in a nightmare you can't wake up from. He made an appointment with a psychiatrist the day after he told me, and I went for more counseling. We went for couples counseling, he started seeing a psychologist, and now we are seeing the psychologist together. We have read books on relationships, sex addiction, and forgiveness. Today we talk intimately, dance, and have good sex, but I don't think I am going to get over the betrayal. Though I have a great job, children who keep me busy, a grandchild, and good friends, I feel I am in limbo. Our psychologist says we are both still healing. I am not sure why I wrote you. I suppose I would like to hear your opinion. Vanessa Vanessa, your psychologist used the word “healing.” Is that a metaphor, or an accurate description of what is going on? Years ago Wayne fractured his clavicle. It was a bad break, and the x-ray showed wide separation between two parts of bone. But in a few months the bone knitted together. Wayne never gives it a thought. Why? Because it healed. What your psychologist calls healing sounds more like getting used to something distasteful. As a girl, you didn’t dream your husband would be meeting men in public toilets for sex. That’s like trying to get used to living in a prison: forget about the outside world, you’re in here for life. Forget about your dreams and what you were raised to believe marriage is. When we don’t live from our authentic self, occasionally our true desires break through. Your desire was for an honest, faithful, loving husband. His desire is to be who he really is, when no one is looking. When you prompted your husband to admit an addiction, you trapped yourself. If he has a disease, that makes you a bad person if you want to leave him. Ask yourself if the latest round of counseling has simply gotten you more caught up in his story? To go to counseling with your husband is to let others alter your perceptions. You’ve read all the books and talked to the psychologists. Ten years ago you were trying to decide whether to stay or go. Ten years later you are still trying to decide. Wayne & Tamara

Nexus, Gender, and the Return to Reality

Nexus, Gender, and the Return to Reality By Councillor Lisa Robinson On August 6, 2025, Canada quietly announced that non-binary gender markers will no longer be accepted on Nexus card applications. If you don’t choose “male” or “female,” you won’t get a card. And if you already have a Nexus card showing something other than those two options, it will remain valid only until it expires. Why the sudden change? Because the United States — under a Trump executive order — now requires all federal identification to reflect one of only two sexes: Male or Female. Not feelings. Not identities. Biological reality. And since Nexus is a joint U.S.–Canada program, Ottawa had no choice but to align with Washington’s policy. For years, we’ve been told that gender is a spectrum, that biological sex doesn’t matter, and that acknowledging two sexes is somehow hateful. But now, at the border, ideology collides with law — and reality wins. This is not about hate. It’s not about erasing anyone’s lived experience. It’s about the limits of fiction in the face of law, security, and international agreements. Trusted traveler programs, passports, and visas must be grounded in something verifiable, consistent, and legally recognized. That means: Male or Female. Some will call this exclusionary. But we can care about people while still telling the truth. We can show dignity and compassion without rewriting the foundations of biology. And this isn’t a new conversation for me. When I was elected in Pickering, I stood up for the rights of boys and girls to access changerooms based on biological sex — not self-declared identity. For that, I was sanctioned and lost two months’ pay, and am still facing an ongoing battle. The message from the establishment is very clear: stand up for common sense, and you will be punished. When reality is bent too far, it eventually snaps back. First Nexus. Then passports. Soon, perhaps sports, prisons, shelters, and hospitals will have to face the same reckoning. This isn’t hatred. It’s clarity. Canada tried to erase sex. The nited States just said: “No more.” Whether we like it or not, the world runs on truth — not trends. And maybe this isn’t the end of inclusion, but the beginning of a return to common sense. Because there are only two sexes. And deep down… we all know it. XX “Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head On And Rise Above It” - Lisa Robinson 2023On And Rise Above It: Lisa Robinson 2023

Going Natural for Male Vitality

Going Natural for Male Vitality By Diana Gifford Mark Twain said, "Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter." But for many aging men, it matters a lot when their prized male organ starts to lose the vitality of youth. One of the most common yet often unspoken challenges is the decline in testosterone levels, a natural part of aging that can significantly impact physical and emotional well-being. Starting as early as the mid-30s, testosterone levels in men begin to decrease by approximately 1 percent per year. This gradual decline can lead to symptoms like fatigue, reduced muscle mass, irritability, and perhaps most distressing for many, a diminished libido. Not everyone aspires to be Don Juan. But for many, having sufficient upbeat libido is what drives life’s most intimate joys. Plus, having positive and healthy intimate connections can be an indication of broader good health. How many readers know that erectile dysfunction (ED), for instance, is often a precursor to cardiovascular problems? The healthy performance of the male organ can be an indication of the healthy performance of the heart. And when the former declines in prowess, one may surmise the heart is also losing vitality. But here’s the rub. Many men have trouble discussing their sexual health – with their partners and their doctors, both. The personal relationship with their partners suffers needlessly as a result. Those who do act make two common mistakes. The first is to leap immediately to pharmaceutical solutions that come with potential side effects. The second is to scour the Internet for promising products, nearly all of which are dubious. Searching the Internet causes another problem – the invitation for algorithms to send more and more trashy content that will certainly embarrass when popping up on the screen as someone else is watching! There’s a Gifford-Jones law that says, “Try natural remedies first.” Fortunately, there are some products available at natural health food and supplements stores that are tested and proven solutions to reignite men’s testosterone production and renew sexual interest. One example is Testo Charge, produced by Certified Naturals, a firm that specializes in clinically studied ingredients, uses no artificial additives, and packages capsules in the dosage scientists have tested in trials. Testo Charge is made using patented LJ100 tongkat ali, an extract derived from a Southeast Asian plant having a long tradition as a natural aphrodisiac and vitality booster. Studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in boosting testosterone levels, improving sexual performance, and enhancing mood and energy. There’s something to be said for another natural approach to macho manhood. Don’t forget that a little romance can a powerful aphrodisiac. Build a menu of loving options, each one of which is priceless – a kiss, a caress, a lasting cuddle. There need not always be a main course when the appetizers are filling enough. It’s perfectly natural for intimate relationships to evolve as the years go by. What’s often underestimated is the importance of talking about how personal abilities change. Yet being the one to open up such discussions is often very, very hard. Years ago, we told readers that bananas go well with hanky-panky. That’s because bananas are loaded with potassium, a nutrient that lowers blood pressure. Bananas also contain magnesium and calcium, nutrients that can help to ease strained muscles. We recommended putting a banana on the bedside table as a fun way to signal romantic intentions to a partner. Since laughter is such good medicine too, why not write to us with your stories of the amorous effects of your own bedside banana? We’ll print the best ones in a future column. _________________________________________________________________________ Sign-up at www.docgiff.com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, contact-us@docgiff.com. Follow us Instagram @docgiff and @diana_gifford_jones