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.

Canada–China Relations: Current Challenges

Canada–China Relations: Current Challenges by Maj (ret’d) CORNELIU, CHISU, CD, PMSC FEC, CET, P.Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East In a rapidly changing geopolitical world, Canada’s international relations need drastic improvement. The former Trudeau government’s actions contrived to sink Canada to the lowest ebb in international relations, particularly with emerging economic powers such as India and China. In light of the current, challenging United States-Canada trade relations, Canada needs to diversify its international trade relations intelligently with emerging economic powers such as China. Canada–China relations, at the lowest points in decades, have entered one of their most difficult and unsettled phases in recent memory. . What was once framed as a pragmatic partnership anchored in commerce and cautious diplomacy has shifted toward suspicion, retaliation, and hardened positions on both sides. Human rights, trade wars, political interference, and security disputes dominate the agenda, leaving little room for constructive engagement. For Canada, the challenge lies in balancing its economic interests with the defense of democratic values and sovereignty. For China, relations with Ottawa are often viewed through the broader prism of its rivalry with the United States and Western allies. The result is a bilateral relationship characterized less by partnership than by friction; an uneasy dynamic with global implications. Few issues have inflamed Canadian public opinion more than human rights disputes with Beijing. In early 2025, China executed four individuals who held Canadian citizenship, all convicted of drug offenses. Although they were dual nationals, Beijing does not recognize dual nationality and dismissed Canada’s repeated appeals for clemency. Ottawa condemned the executions as a violation of basic human dignity, while Beijing defended the move as consistent with domestic law. This event revived memories of one of the darkest chapters in bilateral ties: the detention of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor. Arrested in 2018 shortly after Canada detained Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou on a U.S. extradition request, the two Canadians spent nearly three years in Chinese prisons. Their ordeal was seen internationally as retaliation—so-called “hostage diplomacy.” Though they were released in 2021 when Meng returned to China, the episode permanently scarred Canadian perceptions of Beijing. Canada has also taken firm positions on China’s treatment of Uyghurs, Tibetans, and Falun Gong practitioners. Since 2021, Ottawa has imposed sanctions on Chinese officials and entities tied to human rights abuses, most recently expanding its sanctions framework in late 2024 and early 2025. Beijing consistently rejects these accusations, calling them interference in its internal affairs, but the measures reflect a growing willingness in Canada to adopt values-based foreign policy tools against China. Trade once served as the ballast stabilizing Canada–China relations. For years, Canadian agricultural products, energy exports, and natural resources flowed to Chinese markets, while manufactured goods and electronics arrived in Canada. In the last five years, however, trade has become a battleground. In 2024, Ottawa imposed steep tariffs on Chinese steel, aluminum, and electric vehicles, citing unfair subsidies and risks to domestic industries. China retaliated swiftly, targeting Canadian agricultural exports. Canola, a C$5 billion industry, has been hit hardest: in August 2025, Beijing levied a punitive anti-dumping duty of 75.8% on Canadian canola imports. Farmers across the Prairies, already battered by fluctuating markets, warned of devastating losses. The clash has expanded into other sectors. China has restricted imports of peas, oilcakes, pork, and aquatic products, while Canada has pursued cases at the World Trade Organization. Beijing, in turn, has filed its own WTO complaint against Ottawa’s steel import restrictions, calling them protectionist. What began as a series of tit-for-tat measures has escalated into a broader trade war, with no resolution in sight. At the same time, Canada is working with allies to reduce reliance on Chinese supply chains for critical minerals—lithium, cobalt, and rare earths essential for clean technology and defense industries. Ottawa has pledged funding for domestic mining projects and secured agreements with partners in the G7 and NATO. For Beijing, these moves signal an attempt to exclude China from future supply chains; for Canada, they are seen as insurance against strategic vulnerability. Security disputes add another layer of complexity. In June 2025, Canada ordered the closure of Hikvision’s operations, citing evidence that the Chinese surveillance giant was linked to rights abuses and posed risks to national security. The decision followed earlier restrictions on Huawei’s participation in Canada’s 5G networks, part of a coordinated stance with the United States, the UK, and Australia. Chinese officials condemned these moves, accusing Canada of undermining fair competition and politicizing technology. Yet Canadian policymakers point to rising concerns over espionage, cyberattacks, and the use of surveillance technology for repression abroad. The closure of Hikvision reflects not only human rights concerns but also a broader shift: Canada is aligning its technology policies with Western security alliances, even at the cost of losing Chinese investment and market access. Perhaps the most sensitive issue domestically has been allegations of Chinese interference in Canada’s democratic processes. Investigations by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) and testimony before the Parliamentary Foreign Interference Commission revealed evidence of Chinese activities during the 2019 and 2021 federal elections. The tactics included undisclosed financial support for certain candidates, disinformation campaigns on social media, and efforts to influence diaspora communities. While inquiries concluded that the overall outcomes of the elections were not altered, they noted that interference likely affected specific ridings. For Canadians, the findings struck at the heart of democratic integrity. Public pressure has forced successive governments to act more decisively. Ottawa has introduced new transparency requirements for foreign funding, strengthened CSIS oversight, and pledged closer cooperation with allies to counter disinformation. Beijing denies all allegations, dismissing them as politically motivated, but the revelations have fueled mistrust at both the political and public levels. The political context in Canada adds further uncertainty. When Mark Carney became prime minister in March 2025, analysts speculated about a possible recalibration. Carney, with his global economic expertise and reputation as a pragmatist, signaled openness to selective engagement with China, particularly in clean energy and climate policy. Yet domestic politics constrain his options. Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre is pushing for an even tougher line against Beijing, echoing public sentiment hardened by years of disputes. In this environment, any government will find it politically difficult to pursue rapprochement. In conclusion, Canada–China relations are now defined by confrontation rather than cooperation. Human rights disputes, escalating trade wars, security restrictions, and allegations of political interference have left little common ground. Economic ties, once the glue binding the relationship, are fraying under the weight of tariffs and retaliation. For Canada, China represents both an economic opportunity and a strategic risk. For China, Canada is a middle power closely aligned with the United States, making it both a convenient target for retaliation and a test case for how Western allies respond to Beijing’s policies. The future remains uncertain. China’s global ambitions and Canada’s alliance commitments mean that structural tensions will persist. Cooperation may still be possible in limited areas but the Canada–China relationship has entered a new era; one where suspicion overshadows trust, retaliation replaces compromise, and the path forward is defined by challenge rather than opportunity.

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.

No Mr. Darcy

No Mr. Darcy By Wayne and Tamara I will try to make this brief as I can. My husband and I separated over a lot of issues, the main one being I thought he was cheating. Well, I think he may have been, because we were not even apart a month when I found out he is seeing his mother’s chore worker. I was devastated. I loved him and wanted this marriage to work. I called near divorce time to tell him where to send the papers. We had nothing but angry words to one another before that call. He was sweet. I told him I was so sorry our marriage ended, but thought of him often and still loved him. I just wanted to cleanse old wounds. One hour later he called back asking to come to my home to clear the air. We both cried and talked about where we went wrong in the marriage. He asked me to give him time. He said this other woman did not want him; he barely ever saw her. But then he revealed her daughter and her daughter’s husband are living with him. Just give him time to clean up this mess, he said. When he told the other woman I called, she came running back into his life. He still leads me on and tells me he wants to try. I am getting played the fool, but I am having the worst time letting him go. I try but I can’t. He is the love of my life. He sees me wanting out, then he spews out words to hook me again. I feel like a fish getting thrown in and tossed back time and again. I know she is not living with him, but she sees him two or three times a week. Then he gets cool and distant toward me. But if she stays away, he leads me down this cruel path. I have prayed, remained faithful to him, and now I am at my wits’ end. How could anyone do this to another for a second time? Help me let him go, please. I have always been a strong woman, but this time I find no strength to be that woman. Beatrice Beatrice, how could he do this to you for the second time? The same way he could do it to you for the first time. This mess is a mess made by him. It was his mess to make, and it was his mess to clean up. But he has made another choice. He is not willing to do without a body in his bed. If she’s not there warming his bed, he wants you to be there warming his bed, with not a care about how either of you is affected by this. There is enough of the charmer, or the serpent, about this man that he can receive the benefit of having two of what he should only have one of, at a time. Someone you can spend your life with, share your bed with, share your deepest thoughts with—someone like that is someone not like this man. In Jane Austen’s novel “Pride and Prejudice” there is a clergyman named Mr. Collins. Mr. Collins is a bootlicker and dense as a board. But in the novel he says one wise thing. After Lizzy Bennet rejects his offer of marriage, Mr. Collins says, “I have often observed that resignation is never so perfect as when the blessing denied begins to lose somewhat of its value in our estimation.” This man is not the love of your life, though you want him to be. You wanted one wedding and one lifetime marriage. You cannot have that with him. You can never rest with an easy head or an easy heart. He won’t stand by you. To free yourself, he has to lose some of his value in your estimation. Wayne & Tamara

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.

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

WARRING NATURES

WARRING NATURES By Wayne and Tamara I recently moved in with a man I love deeply. We’ve been together almost two years, and the only problem we haven’t worked out is the amount of affection I want. I have a higher sex drive than him, and I think that may be part of it. Whenever he is around, I want to throw my arms around him and give him kisses. While he has never outright denied the affection I want to give him, I can tell sometimes it may be too much for him. I find myself lying awake nights wishing he would put his arms around me without me having to initiate it, or hoping he would want to spend more time alone with me cuddling. Sophie Sophie, Timothy Treadwell, the subject of the movie “Grizzly Man,” lived among brown bears for 13 summers. Treadwell believed he loved brown bears and sometimes even crooned “I love you” as he approached a grizzly. In the end, the bears loved him back; they loved him to death. He and his girlfriend were eaten by bears. Timothy Treadwell’s life illustrates the nth degree of wanting what we cannot have. Treadwell thought because he loved bears, bears should love him. You think because you want cuddling, your boyfriend should want to cuddle. You and Treadwell act as if there is no will on the other side. What about the bears? What about your boyfriend? What if it is not their nature? The amount of physical affection a person desires depends on many things, including the nurturing they received or failed to receive in the opening years of life. It is a pattern etched into the brain. You can berate, torture, or soothe your boyfriend into sometimes giving you what you want, but that is not his natural state. You seek a way to get what you desire because you won’t acknowledge what he is like. Acknowledging what he is like implies change on your part, and perhaps, ending the relationship. If you stay with your boyfriend, either you will be sick of pushing him, or he will be sick of your demands. When a fox and a hare try to share the same den, they are in for a lifelong battle. Wayne & Tamara Bound To Fail My fiancée and I have a difficult relationship. I entered the relationship with lingering feelings for my previous girlfriend. It came down to ultimatum time, and I told the woman who is now my fiancée to move on. We carried on as before except for physical intimacy. She started dating another but told me, “He’s just a friend.” I believed her. As the prospect of losing her for good became real, I panicked. I opened up to her in ways I never had. I proposed and she said yes. We began planning the wedding, but under pressure from me she started dropping bombs about being sexually intimate with him. Can I trust her? Gregg Gregg, tit for tat, measure for measure, a taste of one’s own medicine. Is that what this is about? You pushed her away after being intimate with her. You wanted another woman who didn’t want you, and you let her know it. She dated someone else and lied. Why? Because she hoped you would come around. She didn’t want to be left with no one, if you continued to shove her away. When you decided she was better than nothing, you proposed. Part of wanting her was someone else wanting her. Now you’ve interrogated the truth out of her—so you can shove her away again. You don’t want to be with her, and you don’t want the insecurity of trying to find another. If this engagement goes to marriage, one day you will be standing at the altar, while your friends in the pews take bets on how long the marriage will last. Wayne & Tamara

Nature, Nurture, and Neuroplasticity -The Key to Understanding What Influences the Person You Are Today

Nature, Nurture, and Neuroplasticity -The Key to Understanding What Influences the Person You Are Today By Camryn Bland Youth Columnist Every morning, you wake up, brush your teeth, and get ready for the day. Then, you head out the door, and live your daily life as you choose. But the question is, what made you choose that life? Why did students choose the courses they did, and what impacts an adult's career choice? Why did an individual choose to eat that for lunch today, and what inspired their outfit? Every detail of your life is related to the unique per son that you are, but what influenced that personality? Many people frame these philosophical questions as nature versus nurture. The big question has always been, are we born who we are, or do we become ourselves due to the world around us? Science has proved both to influence our identity; genes and physical traits play a large role in human behavior, but so does childhood, education, and socioeconomic status. When it comes to these two components, I have always found myself more interested in nurture, how our everyday choices affect our identities. I believe that although our DNA and inherited traits influence us, our complex nurture ultimately decides who we are and what we do. I am a teenager who loves to write, read, bake, debate, and act. I have strong morals, I spend most of my time studying, and I tend to overthink everything. When I analyze my identity, I realize I may not be the same person I am now if just one small thing about my past was different. If my mom didn’t encourage me to read when I was younger, I may not be the bookworm I am today. If I didn’t transfer schools in the seventh grade, I may not be interested in theatre, as I wouldn’t have known about the arts school I now attend. If I didn’t force myself to attend debate tryouts, I wouldn’t have developed the research and critical thinking skills which I gained from hours of tournament preparation. I am the person I’ve become due to my experiences, and I know my identity will continue to develop as I experience more of what the world has to offer. Our nurture is not just one isolated influence, it is made of many components which each affect us in different ways. These factors include, but are not limited to, our friends, pastimes, socioeconomic status, and cultural expectations. Childhood and early family life both have a large impact on your characteristics and personality. If an individual is exposed to violence as a child, they may develop a tendency to physically lash out at others when angry, they may become passive in an attempt to cover their negative emotions, or they may turn to friends and romantic partners with similar abusive habits. If parents are too controlling of their child, then they may not develop independence, however if they are too permissive, children may not understand boundaries or follow rules. Small, seemingly insignificant details from our childhood or adolescence may seem inconsequential, however, they may influence us for the rest of our life in ways we do not realize. Childhood and adolescence are not the only times when our identities are influenced; our everyday actions have a large impact on our character, regardless of our age. The human brain has neural pathways it is accustomed to using, which are formed by our daily routines. When we begin to practice new routines and habits, the brain creates new pathways. This is known as neuroplasticity, which is formally defined as, “the ability of the brain to form and reorganize synaptic connections, especially in response to learning or experience.” Scientists have proven that with time, we are always able to grow, learn, and adapt, regardless of past conventions. Every time we think, feel, or do something, the communication between our nerve cells are stimulated; the more we do that thing, the stronger the nerve connections, and the easier the activity becomes. As individuals, we are always changing, even if we don’t realize it. If we act consciously, we are able to do anything we put our minds to, regardless of how challenging it may seem at first. Neuroplasticity can be seen in our everyday lives, especially in relation to the media. We are constantly consuming information from news companies, social media books, movies, and even musical artists. The average person spends over two hours a day consuming media; therefore, the perspectives of the media we consume are ones we are constantly practicing, which causes the brain to adopt that thinking style. For example, if we are constantly exposed to media discussing the disasters of our society, we are constantly going to feel anxious and upset. However, if we watch media which is uplifting, inspirational, and enjoyable, we will more often feel confident and hopeful. Being mindful of our media consumption is a necessary step in understanding what influences our attitude and behavior, and it may be the solution to changing habits from ineffective to productive. As individuals, our identities are constantly being influenced by many components, such as our daily experiences and the media you consume. Your past and present affect you in ways you may not realize, from intelligence to your favorite color. For hundreds of years, philosophers have been debating whether we are made of our nature or nurture, but they’ve been asking the wrong questions. We now understand we are products of both, but we’ve also realized each component is far more complex than we thought. Nurture isn’t just our early childhood, it’s made of everything in our daily lives, from the moment you are born to the day you die. The key to understanding yourself comes from analyzing every experience, everything you consume, and everything you practice. Only through this reflection can you begin to truly understand what makes you, you.

Employers Are Not Responsible for Your Chosen Lifestyle

Employers Are Not Responsible for Your Chosen Lifestyle By Nick Kossovan Recently, I came across the above picture of a man during the Great Depression wearing a sandwich board advertising that he was looking for work. Aside from the number of people who'll see it, his sandwich board doesn't differ much from the 'I'm now available' posts I see on LinkedIn. The picture made me think, '90 years ago, job seekers made the same mistake as they do today, saying what they want instead of explaining what they can do. Did he expect employers to stop and ask him what the three languages and trades he speaks and knows are? Did he think broadcasting that he'd fought for three years and has three children would motivate employers to hire him? Today, job seekers have the Internet and social media, especially LinkedIn, to broadcast (advertise) that they're looking for work—no need to wear a sandwich board—and are making the same mistake that the man in the picture made. Like me, you probably see the many 'Open to Work' posts on LinkedIn from newly minted job seekers sharing what they want—remote work, a six-figure salary, unlimited PTO, benefits to start immediately—when they should be touting their skills and sharing quantifiable achievements that demonstrate the value they can bring to an employer, such as: · Willing to work on-site. (Don't underestimate how attractive this is to employers.) · Speak English, French, and Spanish fluently. · Certifications (e.g., Project Management Professional (PMP), AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker) · Managed a portfolio of projects valued at $47 million, ensuring a minimum ROI increase of 25%. · PMO head with over 15 years' experience managing portfolios ranging from $50 to $100 million and leading global IT teams of up to 100. · Over the course of 12 years, I sold 513 Corvettes in Las Vegas. (A candidate actually told me this, and I ended up hiring him. Within three months, as part of an inside sales team of 39, he was leading in POS sales.) · In 2018, I secured over $85 million in mortgage loans for clients. · I'm the person behind the EcoBrew "Sip Sustainably" campaign. · Answered between 60 and 80 calls daily. Since 2022, I have consistently maintained a client satisfaction rate of 95% or higher. · Delivered over 30 keynote speeches at national banking conferences and industry events, engaging audiences of up to 1,500 people. I believe most people are willing to help job seekers if they can, which is good news since companies are comprised of people. Therefore, right now, there are job opportunities all around you attached to people (employees), illustrating the importance of networking. The caveat is that you need to make it easy for people to help you, starting by giving them more context than "I'm looking for a job." Do you think someone, especially someone in a position to hire you, takes unsubstantiated opinion statements like "I'm a team player," or "I'm detail-oriented" seriously? Is using statements such as "I have rent and bills to pay" or "I'm running out of savings" an attempt to guilt employers into hiring you? When posting an 'Open to Work' announcement, include the essential information—context, clarity—that hiring managers, recruiters, directors, executives, and an employee needs to evaluate whether you can add value to their company. To further reduce friction and boost your chances of receiving help, follow my one rule—a goal to aim for—for writing bullet points for a resume, LinkedIn profile, or an "Open to Work" announcement: Write each bullet point so that the reader thinks, "I must meet this person!" At the risk of sounding overly blunt, each of us freely created our respective lifestyles or bought into marketing propaganda that influenced us to create it. Employers didn't create your lifestyle, so why would you expect employers to be responsible for it? Your worth to an employer isn't determined by your lifestyle or the cost of living. Your worth, from an employer's perspective, is solely based on the value they believe you can bring to their business. Therefore, the more specific value you can demonstrate—and provide evidence of, such as "Grew TikTok followers from 0 to 10,000 in four months with creative video content," [link to video added]—rather than just saying "Managed social media"—the more likely your 'Open to Work' post will generate engagements that could lead to your next job. An employer-employee relationship, as anyone who has been in the corporate trenches should know, is a business relationship, not a personal one. Thereby, not an employer's concern: · The lifestyle you choose to live. · The cost of living going up. · Your career. If you want your "I'm looking for a job" broadcasting efforts to pay off, then start hyper-focusing on showcasing your value to employers. The more you demonstrate your value add, whether when posting your 'Open to Work,' throughout your resume, LinkedIn profile, while networking and interviewing, the shorter your job search will be. Job searching isn't about making employers guess what you can offer; it's about communicating your value without expecting employers to be responsible for your lifestyle. _____________________________________________________ Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned corporate veteran, offers “unsweetened” job search advice. Send Nick your job search questions to artoffindingwork@gmail.com.

*** A CONVERSATION WITH ROBERT BELL ***

THE THIRD OF MY SUMMER SERIES COLUMNS *** A CONVERSATION WITH ROBERT BELL *** THE HERITAGE OSHAWA COMMITTEE continues to be well served by my friend Robert Bell, a man who truly cares about the history of his community. His photographs on social media number into the tens of thousands, and he has long been regarded as the unofficial photographer of all things Oshawa. This is his story. Born at Oshawa General in 1959, Robert has made it his mission to share all that makes his hometown a great place to live – and for him the reason is simple: “Our collective experiences form the basis of the human condition.” In this regard he has become a sort of pioneer, seeking to put on record all that may represent the best examples of community bridge-building among those he likes to call “connector people”. Robert’s father was a postman, and Robert himself attended the University of Toronto, graduating in 1983 with a 4-Year BA Honours in Economics and Political Science. When I asked him as to the key to his success in such a rigorous program, he said with confidence “I was required to read many books, and in every instance I would try to become one with the author, taking on his mindset to the point where I could write my own quotations on his behalf.” The costs of his education were met through creative means, and his summer jobs included a stint at Dupont in Whitby, however the bulk of my friend’s income was derived through furniture refinishing. “In point of fact, most of the raw material came from local landfills.” Robert explained it this way: “I would venture out to the dump each week, and always come back with more than I went out with.” Unlike most, my friend can boast local political ties within his own family, being a descendant of Abel Wilder Ewers, an early Ontario County politician, and a radical of his time. Ewers was a Reach Township man, much given to the ‘cause of the people’. Further such family political ties include a connection to Ruth Bestwick, who served for 14 years on Oshawa Council. As to his possibly running for office, he said his penchant for always reaching a consensus is reason enough for his disqualification. “Elected officials are duty bound to ultimately reach a decision, even when the facts are perhaps less than clear, and I can’t see myself making such a commitment when there exists even an element of doubt on my part.” The two of us then discussed Oshawa’s future, and I asked him to provide a few insights on the subject. He instantly delivered: “One should always start with a historical perspective, and an appreciation of history by linking our future to our past.” he said. “We were a community long before we became a city, and it’s people that make the difference.” In his view, we must always seek to modernize, and he illustrated this point by referencing the renovation of the Genosha Hotel, a historic building that maintains its outward identity, but with a focus on the future and new opportunities. Robert obtained his real estate license in 1986, at the urging of those who knew of his buying and selling antiques. Looking back, he says “My friends thought I was a natural born salesman, and that gave me the necessary encouragement to take the plunge and get into the world of real estate.” Among those who played a major role in the development of his career was Lloyd Corson, a well-known Oshawa realtor who started Guide Realty in 1961, and who passed away at the age of 95 in 2012. Also prominent in his career was Keith Peters, another well-known realtor who passed away in 2018. Fast forward to today, and you’ll see Robert’s name on Coldwell Banker signs, as he enjoys a productive business relationship with his colleagues. When not at work, my friend spends his time collecting books and antiques, chatting on social media, and enjoying his time as a member of the North Shore Amateur Radio Club. His collection of radio equipment is impressive, and the work of a serious enthusiast, however, it is his interest in photography that has gained him a significant presence on social media and throughout the community. At the age of five, he was given his first camera, a Kodak 127 model. After years of taking photos on family outings and during special occasions, it was Robert’s entry into real estate that caused him to purchase a professional camera, eventually upgrading to digital. What he calls “the biggest transformation” occurred in 2012, when he purchased a Cannon 60D. From that day on his interest in photography exploded. To illustrate this, he looks to his Facebook and Twitter accounts, and talks of having uploaded many thousands of photos, with almost two million views. He has attended too many local events and gatherings to count, and the number of people who have been captured by Robert’s lens is staggering. According to my friend, his experiences have shown most people to be naturally drawn towards the camera, wherever he may be, and for him that’s a good thing. At this point in what amounted to a very long and interesting conversation, we decided to venture out to one of Robert’s favourite spots for a fish and chip takeout, and as usual my friend was immediately recognized by one or two regulars, and a hearty conversation began. I moved over to the counter where the owner of the shop was gently wrapping fried fish in newspaper – a tradition I had thought long gone. She told me of the many people who have come to know “the man in the suit” and how customers look forward to chatting with my friend about whatever may be happening around town. As Robert and I made the journey back in a car filled with the aroma of fish and chips, I told him he was certainly liked and respected by the people in the restaurant, and I suspect this is true wherever he may venture throughout the city. He laughed modestly and told me of a book he was reading, a book about the power of families and neighbourhoods. With a grateful tone, he said, “the author writes about communities, and how all of us bear a responsibility for each other, and I think that’s true.”