I Can’t Afford to Be a Patriot Because of the High Cost of Food

I Can’t Afford to Be a Patriot Because of the High Cost of Food By Dale Jodoin I Can’t Afford to Be a Patriot Because of the High Cost of Food Patriotism is a powerful thing. It’s the belief in one’s country, the pride of being part of something greater. But in today’s Canada, patriotism is becoming a luxury—one that fewer and fewer people can afford. The cost of living has skyrocketed. The middle class is shrinking. The elderly, the working poor, the young people trying to start their lives—everyday Canadians—are being crushed under the weight of taxes, inflation, and government policies that seem more interested in ideology than survival. Because of eight years of Liberal government, backed by the NDP, prices have gone through the roof for everyone. Their green tax has made it impossible for people to live the way they used to. Groceries, gas, heating—everything costs more, and there is no relief in sight. What does it mean to be a patriot when you can barely afford to live? No Room for Fresh Produce in the Budget A woman in her fifties walks into the grocery store, her list short but her worries long. She used to be able to fill a cart with fresh vegetables, local dairy, and quality meats. Now, she picks up a cucumber, looks at the price, and puts it back. The irony stings—Canada grows some of the best produce in the world, but she can’t afford to buy it. Instead, she settles for imported fruits and vegetables from Mexico and China. They’re not as fresh, not as nutritious, but they’re cheaper. “I thought I’d always be able to afford good food,” she murmurs. “I never imagined it would come to this.” A Young Worker Forced to Buy Foreign A young man just starting out in the trades needs work boots. He’s landed his first real job, and he’s eager to contribute. But when he checks the price of a Canadian-made pair, he feels sick—over $300, more than half his paycheck before taxes. He wants to support local businesses. He wants to wear something made in Canada. But he can’t afford it. Instead, he buys boots from a Canadian retailer that imports them from China. “I didn’t want to, but what choice do I have?” he says. “I need boots to work, and I don’t have the money for the good ones.” It’s an ugly truth—many who declare themselves patriots, who say they buy only Canadian, unknowingly (or unwillingly) support foreign manufacturing because their wallets don’t give them a choice. Elderly Couple Forced to Choose Between Food and Heat In a small home, an elderly couple sits at their kitchen table, the room colder than it used to be. They’ve lived here for decades, paid their taxes, and contributed to their community. But as property taxes increase and their fixed income stays the same, every month becomes a battle of choices. Do they pay the heating bill? Or do they buy enough groceries to last the month? The old man fights back tears. He eats less so his wife can eat more. She notices. “We worked all our lives for this?” she whispers. The Gas Prices That Keep a Single Mother from Earning A single mother wakes up before dawn, ready for another long day. She has a part-time job but relies on Uber to make ends meet. Every night, she calculates whether the cost of gas is worth the extra fares. It’s not just gas—it’s insurance, maintenance, and the price of everything going up. But without her car, she has no way to make the extra money her family needs. She looks at her earnings after another night on the road, subtracting the cost of fuel. Barely enough.“I’m doing everything I can,” she says. “But it’s never enough.” The Dollar Store Economy More and more Canadians are finding that the only place they can afford to shop is the dollar store. Discount shops, bargain bins, and clearance sections have become the grocery aisles of the working class. Gone are the days of filling a cart with fresh meat, dairy, and produce. Now, they rely on canned goods, processed foods, and whatever is on sale. And when they shop at grocery stores, they see another problem—shrinkflation. Prices are rising while portion sizes shrink. A loaf of bread that used to last a week now barely makes it through a few days. A box of cereal that once served a family is now half the size but double the price. “They’re charging more and giving us less,” a father of three says. “But we can’t do anything about it.” But now, things have gotten even worse. There are Canadians who can’t even afford to be dollar store people. The 2 Million Who Rely on Food Banks The situation is so dire that over 2 million Canadians now rely on food banks just to get by. These are not just the homeless or the unemployed—many of them are working families, retirees, and even professionals who simply cannot keep up with the rising cost of living. Food banks, once a safety net for the most vulnerable, have become a necessity for the middle class. People who never imagined they would need help—who spent their lives paying taxes, working hard, and believing in the Canadian dream—now stand in line, waiting for a bag of food to get them through the week. “I was raised to believe that if you worked hard, you’d be okay,” says a father of two. “But here I am, picking up a food hamper because my paycheck doesn’t cover everything.” The Government Says It Cares—But Does It? Politicians claim to fight for the middle class. They make speeches, shake hands, and promise relief. But while they debate, real Canadians are drowning. The Prime Minister, the NDP, even so-called conservatives—they all claim to care. But what have they done? The unions fight for their members. The wealthy fight for their tax breaks. The fringe groups fight for their causes. But who is fighting for the everyday Canadian? The Patriotism Paradox And here lies the greatest irony: many of those who call themselves patriots, who say they “buy Canadian” and “support local,” don’t even realize that most of their purchases come from overseas. The hat that says “Proud Canadian”? Made in China. The t-shirt with the maple leaf and the word “Patriot” across the chest? Stamped with “Made in Bangladesh.” The boots, the clothing, even the flags waved at Canada Day celebrations—so many of them come from foreign factories because it’s simply too expensive to buy Canadian. People don’t do this out of disloyalty. They do it because they have no choice. No End in Sight There’s no light at the end of the tunnel. The cost of everything continues to rise—housing, food, fuel, taxes. And while politicians sit in their comfortable offices making decisions that push people further into despair, real Canadians are left behind. The ones who suffer the most are the people who once built this nation. The workers. The farmers. The elderly. The middle class. There is no relief. No hero comes to save them. Just another winter of impossible choices. Another year of tightening belts that are already suffocating. The dream of being a proud, patriotic Canadian still burns in their hearts. But in their empty wallets and cold homes, they wonder—can they still afford it? Everyone knows somebody like them. A friend, a neighbor, a family member. These are the stories of real Canadians. And the saddest part? Their struggles are getting worse.

Making A Difference

Making A Difference

By Joe Ingino B.A. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Articles Published Columns in Canada and The United States Everyone likes to complain. But far from few actually stand up against all odds and do something about it. We are upon a call to action by our Provincial elect. Out of the blue Ford calls and election as to expect to solidify the seats of conservatives across the Province. A bold move, that test the will of taxpayers at large. By now you all may be aware that I put my name forth Ontario New Blue Party as your Oshawa candidate. If we learned anything from the recent U.S. elections. It is time to put new blood in office. Stop electing - re-electing careered politicians that once they get in they sit on their hands. The U.S. took the right lead. Elect someone from outside the establishment. A successful business person with a proven business track record. Someone that knows the value of a dollar and the commitment to sacrifice in the name of humanity. As a candidate. I will not profess to know everything. But what I know I know it well. I may not have all the answers. But I have the solutions to real problems founded on experience. this is why I am running. We have millions of dollar coming to Oshawa through the Province and in my opinion they are wasted. The sitting NDP MPP has let jobs slip out of Oshawa and is content with token jobs in return. The MPP in my opinion is not approachable, arrogant and ignorant of the billions of dollars sitting on the side lines wanting to come to Ontario. To Oshawa. For the past 4 years she has yet to return a phone call to her local City newspaper. French as the City of Oshawa candidate has never visited me or any local business that I know off to ask what our needs may be from the Province. I think it is time to stop the waste of tax dollars we are paying this MPP and elect someone that has first hand experience in the downtown. Someone that has brought to Oshawa the only successful shop local campaign as seen by the many signs posted on local downtown shops. All I am asking for an opportunity to serve you. I will not promise you anything but instead deliver the assurance of working with the municipal government to put and end to people living on the street. I will deliver good paying jobs by approaching developers, business owners and the right type of industry to come to Oshawa. I will aggressively look for funding to better all aspects of Oshawanians. I will develop special partnerships, sponsorship with corporations and those directly involved in finance to assure that our downtown may thrive again. To get rid of crime by working with DRPS for more funding. I will work hard to influence an Ontario balanced budget. I will assure every citizens that all calls will be answered and returned. I promise to bring government back to you. To uphold decency and dignity. To protect our identity and bring back economic pride to Oshawa. Now it is your choice. You have a choice to make a positive difference in your life.

United States Tariffs the Saga Continues

United States Tariffs the Saga Continues by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East Canada has received a 30 days reprieve until 4 March from the 25% tariffs the Trump administration threatens to impose. However, the situation is far from good, while politicians in Canada are involved in elections at various levels. Ontarians have been called to the polls on February 27 to elect a new government, while the Governing Liberal party is involved in a leadership contest in order to elect a new Prime Minister of Canada, who in turn, will be facing an imminent election. These electoral diversions cannot help but seriously affect sound national judgement. Therefore, the tariffs are still a menace for Canada and strong leadership will be essential in negotiating with the Trump administration. Ontarians are looking for their leaders to stand up for them, and secure the best possible options. Dealing with tariffs, border-state diplomacy, ad campaigns aimed at American voters, and business-to-business pressure are all necessary tactics. The fear of ordinary Ontarians over this eventual tariff war must be addressed. That is where Ontarians are looking to their own province’s leaders to protect them. Ordinary people are not worried about theoretical macroeconomic shocks. They are concerned about the price shock of suddenly paying a lot more for gas, groceries and other imported products. That is what keeps them up at night. With the provincial election campaign in full swing, I am just wondering how Premier Ford’s caretaking government will be able to deal with this very serious issue. If it is mishandled, it will affect the wellbeing of the people of Ontario and Canada as well. However, nothing will matter as much as Doug Ford’s ability to convince Ontarians that he is the best candidate to protect their pocketbooks from Donald Trump ‘s actions. Elections are not won on hypotheticals; they are won on trust. Moreover, right now, Ontarians do not need a leader who promises to “figure it out” when the storm hits. The storm has already hit. They want someone who has been through the storm before and knows how to steer the ship. Calling an election when the Province of Ontario already had a majority government, shows very poor leadership, especially when the government should be fully focused on this potentially major economic problem. Looking good in the polls now, can easily backfire. At the same time, the governing Liberals are involved in a leadership contest that will be decided on March the 9th, and is very likely to be succeeded by a federal election. All these electoral issues obviously jeopardise the full attention that should be dedicated to the very likely trade war with the United States. It seems clear that the Trudeau government mistakenly believed it could persuade Trump to change his mind. Therefore, they made no preparations for this looming eventuality between late November when Donald Trump first raised the prospect of tariffs on Canada, and when he officially announced them. Now that we have gotten this 30-day reprieve, we cannot afford to waste this time too. Although the temporary agreement is ostensibly focused on fentanyl and border control issues, Trump’s social media post emphasized that the delay was meant to see “whether or not a final economic deal with Canada can be structured.” This post strongly suggests that all of this turmoil will culminate in the imminent renegotiation of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) under the threat of imposing tariffs, withdrawal from the agreement, or some combination of the two. Canadian policymakers need to be ready. They should be devising a renegotiation strategy over the next 30 days, which accepts that any negotiation is going to be suboptimal. It will be conducted under a state of duress and the lesson of the past weeks is that there is no guarantee that Trump will ultimately honour an agreement. Yet it is still in the country’s best interests to try to maintain a free trade agreement with the United States. Canada must therefore have a clear understanding of its own priorities in advance of the USMCA’s renegotiations. The US administration’s lack of clarity on what it precisely wants can actually be an advantage. Canada has a chance to shape the negotiations and fill-in-the-blanks of America’s policy goals. By exercising first-mover advantage, Canada could set out a new vision for a North American economic and security partnership. Such a proposal must be cognizant of the administration’s understanding of the end of unipolarity and the requisite adjustments to America’s economic and foreign policy. Trump’s top advisors firmly believe that the U.S. can no longer accept the asymmetric economic and security arrangements with its allies that have marked the past several decades. Those in its orbit (or bloc) will face greater expectations than ever before. Canada will need to bring more to the relationship. This requires Canadian policymakers to reach beyond the typical playbook. Radical ideas like economic union or a common border adjustment policy should be considered, for example. The same goes for a bilateral arrangement on drug development costs and consumer prices. Alternatively, even shared border patrols and Arctic defence bases. Are Canada’s politicians ready to think outside the box?

Pickering's Public Forum turns into a racist, pornographic nightmare!

Pickering's Public Forum turns into a racist, pornographic nightmare! By Lisa Robinson On Wednesday February 12, 2025, which was meant to be a transparent, inclusive discussion on our Climate Adaptation Plan for all ages degenerated into an unmitigated horror show. Instead of fostering meaningful community dialogue, the City of Pickering’s virtual Open House became a stage for racist slurs, repeated displays of swastikas, and graphic pornographic content—images that no one, especially an event for all ages, including children should ever be forced to endure. The flagrant failure of City staff is at the heart of this atrocity. With full control over the meeting, they did nothing to immediately shut down the broadcast. By neglecting to disable participants’ microphones and cameras, they provided a free rein for these perpetrators to spread hate, and explicit disgusting pornographic content, leaving our community exposed and traumatized. I can honestly say that I will never be the same after witnessing such a disturbing and deeply traumatizing event. As if this horrific incident were not enough, the hypocrisy of the City of Pickering has reached a new low by launching a calculated attack on my integrity. Recently, they have been trying to falsely accuse me of “aiding and abetting harassment” solely because I publicly condemned hateful remarks made on a podcast. Let me be absolutely clear: I denounced a hateful remark both in an email to my colleagues and live on his podcast, repeatedly stating that I do not condone what the host said or any form of violence. To further clarify, I never even heard the remark because I was taken off the podcast the time it was made, and the announcer explicitly declared that his words were entirely his own and not reflective of my views. Again, I want to be clear – I have never met this person before. I had no prior knowledge of them, no connection, no relationship of any kind before that podcast. I simply participated as a guest, unaware of what they would say or do. Any attempt to suggest otherwise is false. The absurdity of twisting my decisive, public denunciation into grounds for an investigation is a deliberate act of public mischief—a manufactured narrative designed solely to silence me and try to remove me from Council for consistently speaking the truth and calling out the corruption that I have witnessed during my tenure. If the City of Pickering is so quick to claim that I was aiding and abetting harassment—an act over which I had absolutely no control and one that I condemned publicly—then it is only logical that they should be thoroughly investigated for aiding and abetting racist slurs, hate symbols, and the distribution of pornography. Their failure to secure a safe space during the meeting, by not disabling participants’ cameras and microphones, allowed these heinous acts to occur. Yet, instead of acknowledging this gross negligence, the Corporation of the City of Pickering is busy fabricating false narratives and even pressured me into removing video evidence that serves the public interest. Not only have they not even issued an official apology to me or anyone else who witnessed this appalling incident, but they are also desperately trying to suppress the truth about what really happened. This is nothing short of a cover-up, a sham attempt to shift blame away from their own undeniable failures. I call for immediate answers. Who was responsible for moderating the meeting, and why was it not shut down the moment hate speech and explicit content erupted? Which members of leadership were aware of these events—and when did they finally act? Will the same unfounded legal standards now being used to target me be applied to those whose gross negligence allowed this atrocity to occur? I am not only traumatized by what I witnessed but I am also appalled by the lengths to which our City’s leadership will go to suppress the truth. Our community deserves a safe, respectful public forum and leaders who take responsibility, not ones who attempt to rewrite history to deflect their own failures. A police investigation is now underway, and I will not rest until every individual responsible for this disgrace is held accountable. The City of Pickering must stop shifting blame and begin addressing its own gross negligence for the sake of transparency, accountability, and the wellbeing of our community. I am Councillor Lisa Robinson, The People’s Councillor!

Employers Are Not in the 'Give a Chance Business'

Employers Are Not in the 'Give a Chance Business' By Nick Kossovan Many job seekers become frustrated and angry because they believe employers should take a chance on hiring them. Most job seekers fail, or refuse, to grasp that hiring is a critical business decision involving an investment of their time, money, and trust—the stakes are high. Great hires can propel a team forward, while bad hires can create setbacks, disrupt a company's culture, and waste resources. When a hiring manager assesses a candidate, they're not just asking, "Can this person do the job?" they're also asking: · Will this person stick around? · Will they be manageable? · Will they fit into the current team and culture? · Will I regret hiring this person six months from now? A common phrase among job seekers is "Give people a chance." Expecting employers to take a chance on you and blaming them when they don't displays a sense of entitlement. Employers aren't in the business of giving chances. Business survival requires being risk-averse. Minimizing hiring risks is in a business's best interest. In this respect, it's the job seeker's responsibility to demonstrate why the reward of hiring them outweighs the risk. The job market is a battlefield where there are many job seekers who, admittedly, out of desperation, are, to put it mildly, "not playing fair." An employer's hiring decision isn't merely about filling a vacancy. The person hired will, to some extent, affect their bottom line, team chemistry, and long-term goals. I've seen, as you likely have, how hiring the wrong person can lead to productivity losses, decreased morale, and budget wasting. You can't fault employers for selecting employees cautiously; you would, too, if you owned the business. On the other hand, employers can be regarded as 'givers of low-risk chances.' No matter how much due diligence an employer does to mitigate hiring risks, they're still taking a chance—a risk—on the candidate who they deemed to be the most qualified, will deliver the results the business needs, and will fit their culture. Despite employers designing their hiring process in ways they believe will mitigate hiring risks, hiring people doesn't come with any guarantees. The best an employer can do is hire the candidate they believe poses the lowest hiring risk. Most job seekers focus on demonstrating their skills and experience but fail to consider how they might appear as a hiring risk, such as: · Being underqualified or overqualified · Posting negative comments on social media · Exhibiting a sense of entitlement · Having a lengthy employment gap · Holding several short-term jobs Applying for a job involves being compared to everyone else who applied. Put yourself in the employer's shoes. If you received over 500 applications for a Sales Director role, whom would you find "less risky"? Candidate A: Has had four jobs in seven years. Candidate B: Has been at their current job for 14 years. Candidate A: Has a complete LinkedIn profile (profile picture, banner, completed sections) showing the measurable value they've brought to previous employers. Candidate B: Has an incomplete LinkedIn profile. Candidate A: Was referred by an employee. Candidate B: Applied online. Candidate A: Includes a compelling cover letter. Candidate B: Doesn't include a cover letter. It's the job seeker's responsibility to prove that they're worth taking a hiring risk on. You should approach your job search strategically, showing that you are not just another candidate, but one who can add measurable value to the business, such as increasing revenue, reducing costs, or solving problems. With so many qualified job seekers in the job market, why would an employer opt for a candidate with perceived risks? If you believe employers should "give you a chance," you're setting yourself up for disappointment, leading to frustration and anger. Instead, flip the script and show employers that you're a low-risk hire who will add value to their business. Here's how: Build a Strong Resume and LinkedIn Profile: Numbers are the language of business; speak it! Use numbers to demonstrate your past successes and value. Employers hire results, not unsubstantiated opinions. Leverage Networking: A warm introduction will significantly reduce the perceived risks of hiring you. Contact people in your professional network who are connected to the employer you're applying to or may know someone connected to your targeted employer. (It's a small world.) Prepare for Interviews: Don't just respond to questions; prepare thoughtful questions for your interviewer, thus showing enthusiasm and engagement. Follow-Up: Few job seekers send thank-you notes after interviews; therefore, doing so sets you apart. A thank-you note shows initiative, reiterates your interest, and, most importantly, gives you an opportunity to address any concerns raised during the interview. As for cultural fit, I believe in being yourself and letting the chips fall where they fall. Don't contort yourself, as self-proclaimed career coaches advise job seekers to try to "fit in"; if the employer doesn't see you as a fit, why would you want to join? Employers don't owe you a chance; they owe their business and existing employees the lowest hiring risk they can find. It's on you to show employers that hiring you is a low-risk decision they won't regret making. _____________________________________________________________________ Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned veteran of the corporate landscape, offers advice on searching for a job. You can send him your questions at artoffindingwork@gmail.com

My Old House

By Theresa Grant Real Estate Columnist I have always loved old houses. I don’t know exactly what it is that attracts me to them. Maybe it’s the uniqueness of them, how every room is a bit different than the next. I love the little quirks that you find as you walk through a century home. It could be a little step up here or there. An odd shaped door or window, and don’t even get me going on the moldings. Things from yester year, that make walking through some houses just like stepping back in time. I remember when I bought the old semi on Celina St. My daughter walked in and said, “oh wow, look at the doorknobs on the bedroom doors”. They were the old-fashioned glass doorknobs that you just don’t see anymore. They actually reminded me of my grandparents’ farmhouse doors when I was a child. There are so many wonderful old houses here in Oshawa that I would love to fix up. Keep some of the original charm and update the rest of the house, making it a perfect blend of old and new. Alas, I can only fix up the one I live in at the moment, so that is exactly what I am doing. I will take you along with me as I complete the renovations on my old house. I bought this house in 2020. Just before Covid-19 sent the real estate market into a frenzy of activity. It will actually be a combination of renovation and interior decoration. I have decided that I want to change the entire colour scheme of the house, on both floors. There is a finished basement but that has just been redone, and I quite like it. When I bought the house, I had the main floor painted a cocoa beige kind of colour, very earthy. I really liked it. I still like it, but I got it into my head that I wanted to go with a beach theme. I really want to lighten the rooms up, and I’ve always loved bright pops of colour. So, on the main floor there is only the kitchen, living room and hallway that are being redone. There is a bedroom on the main floor, however I use that as an office. It’s done in the earthy colour and because the door is closed to that room most of the time, I will leave it for now. So, stay tuned weekly for progress updates on my old house. As always, if you have questions about anything you read in my column just drop me a line and I’ll be sure to answer them..

How Clutter Causes Problems

How Clutter Causes Problems By W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford Have you ever walked into a home, or even a single room, and wondered, "How do these people live in such a mess?" Collecting and holding onto too much stuff causes many problems – economic, social, and emotional. It is not a common way to assess your health. But having a look at your home is an interesting diagnostic tool. “Cluttering” can be expensive. About 11% of American households rent a storage unit at an average monthly cost of $85. Nearly half of self-storage customers rent for a year or more, costing over a thousand dollars! Some nationalities are more compulsive about clutter. For instance, Germans and Swedes seem less inclined to pile up unused things. The Swedes have a saying that stresses you should not leave a mess for others to clean up. They call it "death cleaning". Studies show that clutter breeds emotional chaos for some people. A study at Princeton University showed that with too much stuff around, the brain is unable to process information well. Another study from the University of California revealed that clutter can have an adverse effect on hormones. For instance, women who live with a mess did not show the normal decrease in the stress hormone, cortisol, that usually occurs during the course of a day. Moreover, they experienced an increase in depressed mood. In some cases, living in a mess means social isolation stemming from the embarrassment of friends not able to get in the door for all the mess. A messy home can also lead to falls. Getting older is a dangerous process. Seniors are less agile, and vision deteriorates. Tripping over a mess can cause a fractured hip or other serious injuries. For messy households, there is nothing like the workload that comes when parents move into retirement homes. This topic doesn’t feature in my new book about Healthy Retirement Residence Living, but that’s my oversight. Fortunately, my own family does not have this problem, but the tales are legendary of families who must sort through room after room of “stuff” collected over a lifetime. If you’ve decided it's time to get rid of clutter, there’s good news. Decluttering does make people feel psychologically better. It provides a sense of accomplishment and well-being. Equally important, decluttering gives people a sense of personal control, lowering stress. If getting rid of clutter is good for you, why don't more people do it? There are lots of reasons. Are people too busy? Is there just too much stuff? Does procrastination win? Just as a voyage of a thousand miles begins with the first step, the best thing is to just get started. Set small goals, so you don't become overwhelmed before you even begin. Experts in decluttering offer sage advice. Sort your things into three broad categories, “Keep, Discard, and Maybe”. Then repeat with the "Maybe" stuff as many times as needed. Break the work into small chunks of time. Spending 30 minutes on one task is enough, so you don't get overtired or bored and say, "What's the use?" Remember that deciding to clean up a mess means the clutter has to go somewhere. This is a time when you can make less fortunate people happy. Donate clothing, electronics, books, furniture, and other items to The Salvation Army, Goodwill, and other charitable organizations. Hmm. I can just hear my wife saying, "So Giff, when are you going to toss out those old shoes?" But like old wine, I find it hard to say goodbye to old shoes. They remain on my "Maybe" list.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

PICKERING FORWARD

PICKERING FORWARD By Maurice Brenner Regional Councillor Ward 1 Pickering Having attended the PICKERING FORWARD Planning Department Open House Townhall as part of the Policy Development for a New Pickering Official Plan on February 6th at the George Ashe CC, this transformative session was nothing less than impressive. About 40 members of communities from across Pickering turned out and took part in meaningful discussions that focussed on sustainability and the natural environment. Some of the key highlights raised by residents stressed the importance of protecting community character along the Kingston Road corridor. Things such as wide multi-purpose Bvds that are pedestrian friendly, with regard for architectural design controls that enables a blend of structural forms. Another important item, was the need to better understand the impact of removing all trees during development through an environmental lens to ensure appropriate mitigating options are explored. As Pickering continues to move forward with growth in Central Pickering, the redevelopment along Kingston Road and infill, I will do my utmost to bring these and other important items to the table always keeping in mind, that what ever we do today will impact tomorrow., During the coming weeks PICKERING FORWARD will launch its next phase of this implant policy review of our Official Plan. And while there was some scepticism that voices may not be heard, the Planning Team assured them that everything was on the table and deemed important. To learn more about PICKERING FORWARD, check out www.pickering.ca/Pickeringforward

Canada’s Border Crisis: China, Fentanyl, and the Failure of Leadership

Canada’s Border Crisis: China, Fentanyl, and the Failure of Leadership By Sami Parvez Canada’s Border Crisis: China, Fentanyl, and the Failure of Canada's border policies have been criticized for being too lax, particularly under the Liberal government. In recent years, under the Liberal government, policies have become more relaxed. In July, after Canada accepted over 5,000 refugees from Gaza, U.S. Senators expressed concerns, warning that the policy could provide individuals with potential ties to terror groups easier access to the United States. Immigration Minister Marc Miller dismissed these concerns as “categorically false,” adding that “Canada only issues refugee travel documents to individuals deemed legitimate refugees after a separate assessment process." Canada wouldn’t have taken any action if there were no concerns about tariffs. Canadians owe gratitude to U.S. President Donald Trump for threatening tariffs on Canadian products, which prompted Ottawa to get serious about the illegal flow of drugs into the country, illegal border crossings, and the misuse of Canada's relaxed visa system for temporary residents. In fact, Canada has a long history of fentanyl arriving in Vancouver from China, but authorities have taken no concrete action to address the issue in the past. After a phone call with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Feb. 3, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump agreed to pause proposed tariffs on Canada for 30 days—on the condition that Canada strengthens border security to curb illegal immigration and drug trafficking. In response, Trudeau committed to deploying 10,000 front-line personnel, appointing a "Fentanyl Czar," designating Mexican cartels as terrorists, and signing a new intelligence directive on organized crime and fentanyl. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, when he was Liberal leader in 2013, famously said he “admires China because of its dictatorship,” sparking significant discussion in Canada, particularly among Chinese-Canadians who fled China for their safety from the Chinese Communist regime. In 2019, two Chinese scientists working at Canada's top infectious disease lab in Winnipeg, Dr. Xiangguo Qiu and her husband, Keding Cheng, were dismissed due to concerns about their connections to Chinese military researchers and sharing of sensitive information. While they were red-flagged, fired, and sent back to China, the Liberal government did not take significant public action or raise the issue directly with China at the time. When the opposition brought up the matter in the House of Commons, Trudeau accused them of being racist and spreading anti-Asian sentiment. “The rise in anti-Asian racism we have been seeing over the past number of months should be of concern to everyone,” Trudeau told the House on May 26, 2021, in response to then-Tory MP Candice Bergen's questions regarding reports that two Chinese scientists at Canada's top infectious-disease laboratory in Winnipeg had been collaborating with Chinese military researchers. In October 2024, the RCMP dismantled what authorities described at the time as “the largest and most sophisticated fentanyl and methamphetamine drug superlab” in Canadian history, located in Falkland, B.C. According to the police, “the combined fentanyl and precursor chemicals seized could have amounted to over 95.5 million doses, with an estimated $485 million in potential profit.” The recent drug bust underscores the need for stronger border security and law enforcement. It also highlights the role of foreign actors in Canada’s crime problem. Award winning investigative journalist Sam Cooper has raised concerns about China’s involvement, claiming that Chinese military links to criminal networks are fueling money laundering and drug trafficking. “There are very deep concerns that Canada is being used by China in a very sophisticated economic and truly criminal way,” Cooper told The Daniela Cambone Show. “Chinese military was directly involved with these underground Chinese criminal networks that were facilitating this massive money laundering which tied into fentanyl, cocaine, (and) money moving around the world. So, drugs are coming in through Vancouver right then spreading across Canada and getting down into the United States.” Yet, despite mounting evidence, neither Prime Minister Justin Trudeau nor his main rival, Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre, has directly named China as a key player in Canada’s fentanyl crisis. Trudeau’s government has also failed to strengthen oversight of Canada’s ports, particularly the Port of Vancouver—a well-documented entry point for Chinese fentanyl shipments. Instead of prioritizing the safety of Canadians, Trudeau continues to shield Beijing from accountability, placing diplomatic ties above national security. Poilievre has vowed to crack down on fentanyl traffickers if elected, saying, "I will lock up fentanyl kingpins and throw away the key. It’s like spraying bullets into a crowd—even if you don’t aim, you will kill people. The penalty should be the same as murder. I will pass mandatory life sentences, so fentanyl kingpins never get out of jail and stop killing our kids." While his tough-on-crime approach resonates with many, he has yet to address who is ultimately responsible for flooding Canada with this deadly drug. Without tackling the source of the crisis, enforcement alone may not be enough. It’s time for strong leadership that puts Canada first. Ottawa must invest more in law enforcement and defence to ensure better protection with more boots on the ground. There must be zero tolerance for foreign interference, and our borders must be fully secured. No one should enter Canada illegally, nor should money laundering or the drug trade thrive. Canada needs patriotic leadership that prioritizes national sovereignty and puts Canadians above all else. Criminals must face stricter punishments, and foreign citizens who break the law should be deported immediately. Their assets should be seized, and those born outside Canada must be returned to their country of birth without exception. Canada must uphold the rule of law, and rule breakers should not be tolerated. It’s time to reinstate tougher penalties to ensure justice and security.

Truths Job Seekers Conveniently Ignore

Truths Job Seekers Conveniently Ignore By Nick Kossovan "You can ignore reality, but you cannot ignore the consequences of ignoring reality," - Ayn Rand, Russian-born American writer, Atlas Shrugged (1957) Acknowledging current job market realities is imperative for job search success. Clinging to comforting narratives while ignoring hard truths will not change how employers operate, especially regarding their respective hiring process. Most job seekers conveniently ignore the following seven uncomfortable truths, which, if they accepted, would expedite their job search. 1. There's always someone younger and hungrier than you. When it comes to "job search truisms that suck," this is at the top. Job searching is a competition against other candidates, AI, automation, low-cost overseas labour, and the advantages of using contractors and freelancers. Achieving success in this competitive landscape requires being hungrier than your competition, as winning typically demands a strong desire to prevail. I view "someone younger and hungrier" (and more skilled) as a call to action. While you can't "youth appeal," you can lessen its influence on hiring decisions by: · Assuring employers you're relevant—not "dated"—that you keep up with technology, social media's ebbs and flows, and ever-shifting social norms. · Demonstrating you can work autonomously. (read: you'll be easy to manage) · Cultivating professional relationships that can vouch for your value to an employer. · Establishing you don't have a sense of entitlement—the Achilles heel of most job seekers. 2. You don't own your job; your employer does. The phrase "my job" is an oxymoron. Layoffs illustrate that the job belongs to the employer, yet many job seekers chase the illusion of job security. My take is an employee is renting their job until they no longer want the job or their employer requires their services. Job seekers would shorten their job search by adopting a renter's mindset. In other words, don't look for what doesn't exist—a permanent employment situation. Renting is primarily about having a roof over your head; therefore, we tend to accept, within reason, "less than ideal" (e.g., neighbourhood, kitchen layout, bathroom size). The motivation to buy a home is to build equity, which, as you know, is more challenging, expensive, and requires a long-term commitment. When job searching, think of yourself looking for a rental situation; looking for a job that meets your immediate income needs is a quicker route to landing a job than looking for your "ideal work situation." 3. What you show is what an employer will know. Employers hire results, not opinions. Most resumes and LinkedIn profiles are merely lists of opinions; hence, they fail to attract opportunities. Vague claims like "I'm a team player" lack substance. You must quantify: "I was part of a 12-member sales team with a $6.5 million quota." Numbers, the language of business, illustrate your impact and make you a more attractive candidate. 4. You don't define your worth; employers do. A sense of entitlement fuels the obsession with being paid what you're worth. Basic economics: A product or service's worth is largely determined by how well it solves a customer's problem, meets their needs, and compares with competing products. As I mentioned, when job searching, you're competing against candidates who are younger and hungrier than you. Thus, they're willing to work for a lower wage to get their foot in the door, gain experience, and prove themselves. The reason many job seekers experience a lengthy job search is because they possess an inflated sense of their value to employers and overlook their competition. 5. Employers are moving away from remote jobs. Their company, their rules. It's no secret that many companies, such as Starbucks, Amazon, Meta, Walmart, and Trump mandating federal workers return to the office full-time, are ending the remote work setup during COVID, which gave white-collar workers a taste of the privilege of working from home. From what I'm observing and hearing, abuse of working from home is prevalent; hence, I agree with employers having their employees RTO and employees having to manage their workdays as they did pre-COVID. For a faster job search, be open to working onsite. If WFH is a non-negotiable 'must-have,' be prepared for a lengthy job search as the number of WFH opportunities is rapidly shrinking. 6. Your LinkedIn profile and activity on LinkedIn matter more than your resume. What has more visibility, your resume, which is only seen by those you give it to, or your LinkedIn profile, which anyone can view 24/7/365? Given how influential your LinkedIn profile can be to your job search and career, I find it surprising that I still see profiles that scream, "I'm not serious about my job search or career!" With all the information and guides available it's inexcusable not to create a fully optimized LinkedIn profile that'll attract opportunities. 7. Your likability supersedes your skills and experience. Hiring managers don't hire candidates they don't like; hence, likability is a job seeker's biggest asset. While your resume, cover letter and LinkedIn profile job will get you interviews, the success of your interview will be primarily determined by how likable you are; therefore, being likable is a trait (read: skill) worth fostering.cover letter that may (but is not guaranteed) encourage the hiring manager to contact you, then how badly you want the job becomes questionable. _____________________________________________________________________ Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned veteran of the corporate landscape, offers advice on searching for a job. You can send him your questions at artoffindingwork@gmail.com

Impending Tariffs and Trade War Clouds Looming Between the United States and Canada

Impending Tariffs and Trade War Clouds Looming Between the United States and Canada by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East U.S. President Donald Trump seemed to have made good on his threats to impose tariffs on last Saturday, when he signed an executive order that would impose levies of 25 percent on all imports from Canada and Mexico, except for Canadian energy, which would face a tariff of 10 percent. The order included a provision to trigger even higher tariffs if the targets of the order respond with tariffs of their own. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau quickly responded by announcing a package of retaliatory tariffs. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum also vowed to retaliate. Following last-minute negotiations, however, both Canada and Mexico were able to secure a 30-day delay on the imposition of the American tariffs. Clearly, the situation is fluid. While a temporary pause is better than nothing, the threat remains. If the full extent of Trump’s tariffs are eventually implemented, there is a real risk that these actions could spark a trade war the likes of which have not been seen since the Great Depression. Consider the facts for Canada: 77% of our exports are to the United States, and only 17% of the United States’ exports are to Canada. Is that a position of equal strength? Aside from the massive difference in economic strength, at this crucial moment Canada is in a very weak position politically. Coping with the stress of these tariffs with a prorogued parliament, a Prime Minister who has resigned, and a Liberal leadership contest in place to replace him by March 9 all attest to a lack of the strong leadership that is now needed. To add to the political instability, the biggest Province, Ontario, is involved in an early election process. An election called by Premier Doug Ford who was looking to hang onto power for four more years. This election is not about the interest of Ontarians and Canadians, but an entirely self-interested move. It is sad to see all of Canada’s political leaders running in circles, unprepared for the dark future ahead, uttering empty threats, totally oblivious to the grave consequences Canada is about to face due to their childish posturing and total lack of leadership. For Canada, the impact will be severe: a 25 percent tariff on all goods and a 10 percent tariff on energy. Together, these cover roughly 80 percent of the $600 billion in exports we send to the U.S. each year. While these tariffs are not a direct tax on Canadians, the effects will be felt through reduced demand for our goods. Although we will get a clearer picture in the coming days, some quick calculations outlined by knowledgeable experts reveal just how significant the economic hit could be. If U.S. demand drops in proportion to the tariff it will translate to a $160 billion blow to Canada’s economy—$100 billion in direct losses and another $60 billion in upstream effects. The pain varies a lot across sectors. Vehicle manufacturing, mostly in Ontario, could see demand fall by more than 15 percent, with some subsectors approaching a staggering 25 percent decline. These estimates likely underestimate significantly, the broader disruption to supply chains that crisscross the border. Nevertheless, Ford is campaigning on an attitude of reckless retaliation, threatening to withdraw US liquor from the LCBO government owned stores and tearing up a contract worth 100 million dollars with Elon Musk’s company, Starlink. He is clearly not thinking either of the broader consequences, or the cost that has already been incurred. (Liquor we have already bought, the cost of breaking a contract….) Obviously, the taxpayers will be stuck with the tab. So, Ford is fiddling while Ontario burns, eh? Other manufacturing industries, mostly in Quebec, would face an average demand drop of about 10 percent, while the resource and agriculture sectors would see declines of around 8 percent. Even industries not directly targeted by tariffs, like services, would take a hit. While the impact on services may seem modest, this sector makes up the bulk of Canada’s economy, a unique position to be in among G7 countries. If these output losses translate proportionally to employment, Canada could see roughly 600,000 fewer jobs, potentially pushing the unemployment rate up to nearly 10 percent. However, this is a rough estimate and losses would take some time to materialize. In response to US tariffs, Canada is threatening to hit back with its own tariffs starting at 25 percent on $30 billion in U.S. goods and expanding to $155 billion in just three weeks. That covers about one-third of what we import from the U.S. While some specifics are still unclear, this appears to be the most extensive retaliation the government could impose without targeting imports essential to our own industries. The former account for about one-third of total Canadian imports from the U.S. Unfortunately, retaliation will only hurt the U.S. slightly, while it will hurt the Canadian economy substantially. Moreover, the pain for Canada will come more quickly than if there is no retaliation, as the initial drop in our GDP will be more than twice as large. Unlike Trump’s tariffs, which will hit all Canadian products, Canada’s planned retaliation will hit consumer goods, but not the intermediate inputs imported by Canadian producers. Make no mistake. This is still a tax increase on Canadians, one that will further slow our economy. By stopping of a strict dollar-for-dollar escalation for the moment short, policymakers have at least avoided inflicting even greater damage on Canadian businesses and consumers. Let’s now hope that economic pain on both sides of the border forces a rethink by the U.S. administration before the damage becomes permanent. As we are at the early stages of this crisis, some interesting developments are likely to follow in the near future. The question is, how can win-win solutions be achieved to the problems Canada faces at present? Saddled at the helm with a thoughtless, mindless, desperately weak political class composed primarily of elected former political staffers with no business experience, dare we hope for a strong, astute, economically knowledgeable outsider to emerge as leader? For now, we have 30 days to act.

Staying Safe in a Politically Divided World: 10 Tips for Personal Security

Staying Safe in a Politically Divided World: 10 Tips for Personal Security By Dale Jodoin In today’s world, expressing political beliefs has become a dangerous game. Some people can openly share their opinions with little to no consequence, while others face harassment, job loss, or even physical violence simply for supporting the "wrong" side. This is not how democracy is supposed to work. Everyone should have the right to voice their opinions without fear, but reality tells a different story. Across Canada and the United States, we see a troubling pattern. Conservatives, moderates, and even classical liberals are facing increasing hostility, while radical left-wing groups—often called the "woke mob" or "alt-left"—are given free rein to protest, riot, and silence opposition. The media downplays their actions, and politicians hesitate to take strong action against them. Meanwhile, those on the right face swift consequences for even minor infractions. The border crisis is the latest example of this political imbalance. For months, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and U.S. President Joe Biden refused to take meaningful action to secure their borders, despite overwhelming public demand for stricter immigration enforcement. When finally forced to act—due to pressure from foreign governments—they were hesitant and slow. Instead of acknowledging that border security is about national protection, the Liberal and NDP coalition in Canada labeled concerned citizens as "racist" for wanting immigration controls. The truth is, securing a nation’s borders is not about race; it is about safety, economic stability, and national sovereignty. While Trudeau and his government reluctantly acted on border security, fringe left-wing groups continue to operate unchecked. These radical activists target individuals, businesses, and public officials who do not align with their ideology. They justify physical attacks, online harassment, and even doxing (publishing private information to incite threats). They claim to fight for justice, but in reality, they operate more like political enforcers—punishing dissent while enjoying government protection. This article is not about inciting fear but about preparation. Whether you are a conservative, a moderate, or even a traditional liberal who no longer fits into today’s progressive mold, it is essential to stay vigilant. Below are ten critical tips to protect yourself in this increasingly divided political climate. 10 Tips for Staying Safe in Today’s Political Climate 1. Be Aware of Your Surroundings The first rule of personal safety is awareness. When in public, always pay attention to your environment. If you notice tensions rising, a crowd forming, or aggressive behavior escalating, remove yourself before trouble starts. Watch for body language—clenched fists, raised voices, or groups surrounding individuals are warning signs. 2. Avoid Wearing Political Symbols in PublicWhile you have every right to express your political beliefs, doing so can make you a target. Political hats, shirts, or bumper stickers may attract unwanted attention. If you’re in an area known for political activism, especially left-wing strongholds, consider leaving your political apparel at home. Safety should always take priority over making a statement. 3. Travel in Groups There is strength in numbers. If you find yourself in a politically charged area, do not go alone. Walking with friends or family makes you a less likely target for harassment or assault. Groups are harder to intimidate, and someone watching your back can make all the difference in a dangerous situation. 4. Keep Your Phone Ready Always have your phone fully charged and easily accessible. If you feel unsafe, call someone you trust or, if necessary, contact law enforcement. Recording incidents can provide valuable evidence if you are ever harassed or attacked. However, avoid provoking a confrontation by visibly filming someone—this can escalate tensions. 5. Know Your Escape Routes Whether at a public event, protest area, or even just in a busy city center, always have an exit plan. Be aware of nearby streets, open stores, or secure buildings where you can seek refuge. If in a building, locate the nearest exits in case you need to leave quickly. 6. Stay Calm and Avoid Engaging in Arguments Political debates can quickly turn hostile. If someone confronts you aggressively, the best course of action is to disengage. Shouting back will only escalate the situation. If you feel trapped, calmly walk away and remove yourself from the situation. There is no shame in prioritizing your safety over winning an argument. 7. Learn Basic Self-Defense Violence should always be a last resort, but knowing how to defend yourself is crucial. You do not need to be a martial arts expert, but learning how to block attacks, escape grabs, or use basic self-defense maneuvers can make a significant difference in an emergency. Many local gyms and community centers offer affordable self-defense courses. 8. Avoid Isolated Areas If tensions are high in your community, stick to well-populated areas with security cameras and witnesses. Avoid dark alleys, quiet side streets, or empty parks—especially at night. If you suspect someone is following you, enter a public space like a store or café instead of heading straight home. 9. Be Careful What You Post Online In today's digital world, people have lost jobs, faced harassment, and even been physically targeted for their social media activity. If you post about politics, be mindful of who might see it. Consider adjusting your privacy settings so that only trusted friends can access your content. If you face online harassment, document it but avoid engaging—do not give your attackers more ammunition. 10. Have a Plan to Reach a Safe Place If you ever feel unsafe, know where to go. If you cannot rely on the police in your area due to political bias, identify alternative safe zones. This could be a friend’s house, a local business, or a community center. If you suspect you are being followed, do not drive directly home—go to a well-lit public place and contact someone you trust. The political divide in Canada and the U.S. is growing deeper, and it is not conservatives who are benefiting from the chaos. Radical leftist groups continue to operate without consequence, while anyone who challenges their ideology faces public backlash, job loss, or even legal consequences. The Trudeau government has repeatedly ignored the concerns of the majority. It took international pressure to finally address border security, and even then, they acted reluctantly. Meanwhile, anyone who dared question the government’s inaction was smeared as a "racist" or "bigot." This is a disturbing trend—where citizens expressing common-sense concerns are attacked rather than heard. At the same time, fringe left-wing groups remain a threat. These activists push extreme policies in schools, workplaces, and the media. They justify violence, censorship, and intimidation tactics, all while claiming to be the true defenders of democracy. But democracy is not about silencing opponents—it is about allowing open discussion and respecting diverse viewpoints. We live in dangerous times, but fear should never prevent you from standing up for what you believe in. Democracy depends on free speech, and no one—no matter their political beliefs—should live in fear of violence or persecution. This article is not about paranoia. It is about preparation. By staying alert, avoiding unnecessary risks, and knowing how to protect yourself, you can continue to express your beliefs safely. Do not let radical voices silence you. Freedom is worth defending. Stay aware, stay safe, and never stop standing up for your rights.

A human tragedy that must never happen again

A human tragedy that must never happen again by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East As we deal with a new conflagration in Europe and its many victims, we need to reflect for a moment on the human tragedy of cataclysmic proportion that happened during WW2, and hope that this kind of thing will never happen again. On May 8, 1945, Winston Churchill announced that the Allies had secured Victory in Europe. Later that year, Japan would finally surrender, and World War II would end. It is hard to believe that in 2025, we will mark the 80th Anniversary of the end of World War II; a tragedy that was the most devastating event of the last century. This war was the deadliest military conflict in human history. An estimated 70 to 85 million people perished in it; or about 3% of the world population in 1940. The World War II conflagration saw very high civilian casualties. Civilian deaths totaled 50 to 55 million. Of this, the victims of genocide and ethnic cleansing numbered close to 25 million. Around 17 million perished as victims of Nazi Germany and its collaborators, and 7.6 million were victims of the communist rule in the Soviet Union. The ferocity of Nazi killings was motivated by the idea of ethnic cleansing. These racially motivated crimes included the persecution of Roma and the handicapped, the murder of Soviet prisoners of war, Polish and Soviet civilians, as well as political prisoners, religious dissenters, and homosexuals, adding to the number of innocent victims of war. In January 1942, top Nazi leaders convened in the outer lakeside Berlin suburb of Wannsee to outline the “Final Solution of the Jewish Question in Europe”, without regard for geographic boundaries. In total, 11 million Jews would be targeted for extermination. Without a whimper, the thirteen officials signed off on the ‘Final Solution’. The minutes would record their decision to ‘cleanse the German living space of Jews in a legal manner’. This marked the darkest seminal moment in a series of events that would see the murder of 6 million Jews, an abhorrence beyond comprehension in our modern, comfortable lives. The Holocaust is the term generally used to describe the genocide of approximately six million European Jews during World War II. Entire families, old men and women and young children were killed in the Nazi extermination camps by ferocious and inhumane methods. According to Polish Institute of National Remembrance (IPN) researchers, 2,830,000 Jews were murdered in the Nazi death camps (500,000 in Belzec; 150,000 in Sobibor; 850,000 in Treblinka; 150,000 in Chelmno; 1,100,000 in Auschwitz and 80,000 in Majdanek. In the Nazi occupied territory of the USSR the Nazi Einsatzgruppen killed another 1.4 million Jewish people by mobile gas chambers and mass executions. Eighty years ago, on 27 January 1945, Soviet soldiers from the 60th Army of the First Ukrainian Front advanced into Poland and liberated Auschwitz. There, amid mountains of corpses, they discovered about 7,650 men, women and children, starving, stricken by disease, barely living. They also found hundreds of thousands of personal effects, and 700 tons of human hair. These broken human beings were among the handful of survivors of the 1.3 million people who had passed through the gates of Auschwitz. In November 2005, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 27 January 1945, the day on which Auschwitz was liberated, as International Remembrance Day to mark the tragedy of the Holocaust. It commemorates the genocide that resulted in the deaths of 6 million Jews and 11 million others, by the Nazi regime and its collaborators. It urges every member nation of the U.N. to honour the memory of Holocaust victims, and encourages the development of educational programs about Holocaust history to help prevent future acts of genocide. It condemns all manifestations of religious intolerance, incitement, harassment or violence against persons or communities based on ethnic origin or religious belief. The International Day in memory of the victims of the Holocaust is thus a day on which we must reassert our commitment to human rights. We must also go beyond remembrance, and make sure that new generations know this history. We must apply the lessons of the Holocaust to today’s world. After the horrors of the 20th century, there should be no room for intolerance in the 21st. The only way to honour the memory of the Holocaust is to turn remembrance into the promise of a better future. Preserving and transmitting the memory is a duty towards those who lost their lives, and towards our children. In commemorating the dead, we are inspired by the triumph of the human spirit given us by those who survived. "Those that fail to learn from history, are doomed to repeat it." Winston Churchill A nation that does not know nor understand its history, is dangerous. Life’s paradox is that often it is those things, most important to us, that we have a tendency to take for granted. We are fortunate as Canadians, whether by birth or by choice, to enjoy political, economic and religious freedoms. To live in a nation in which faith coexists with reason, free academic inquiry, a free press and independent judiciary is a blessing and we need to preserve it. And yet support for democracy is diminishing. We are defined most by our values and our beliefs, the way we relate to one another and see our place in the world. We are shaped by our heroes and villains, our triumphs and failures. The way as a people we have faced adversity and how we will face the inevitable adversities that are coming. How we respond to them will shape our future. Nations, like people, face ‘moments of truth’. There are moments in history which challenge our very survival and values. Well led, we emerge stronger, more resilient. Under poor leadership, we may suffer lasting damage. Six million Jews were murdered in an act of unspeakable genocidal barbarism. So too were homosexuals, Roma, the disabled and political dissidents. In a world grappling with the mass movement of people, the persecution of political, ethnic and religious minorities, the push for euthanasia and a generational struggle against resurgent religious extremism, we must remind ourselves not only of why we fought wars but also what human kind is capable of, and the circumstances that lead to it. Today we live in vast ignorance of the decisions we make and that are made for us, facing extraordinary global uncertainty and immense technological change. No human being, no Canadian who believes in the dignity of man, of freedom and democratic principles, should ever allow the Holocaust to be forgotten through neglectful indifference; that the events, the people, their lives and stories, become distant strangers. These heinous events and those who survived them teach us many things. Most importantly they inspire us to have the moral courage, irrespective of personal consequences, to act on what, in our hearts, we know to be right. “It is not often that nations learn from the past, even rarer that they draw the correct conclusions from it.” ? Henry Kissinger Are we ready to do it right?

Exposing More Lies & Corruption: The Truth About Pickering’s Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT)

Exposing More Lies & Corruption: The Truth About Pickering’s Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) By Lisa Robinson Today, I’m speaking out because I’m tired of the lies, manipulation, and deceit coming from some council members and city staff. What happened during the January 13th Executive Committee meeting is a prime example of why trust in government continues to erode. During that meeting, staff recommended implementing a 4% Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) on hotels and motels in Pickering. They justified it by claiming that 'many' municipalities had already adopted the tax, but here’s the truth: only 15 out of 444 municipalities have done so—that’s just 3.4%. Calling that 'many' is not only inaccurate, it's a lie designed to manipulate public perception. That kind of intentional distortion is corruption, plain and simple. I asked our Director of Economic Development, Mr. Fiaz Jadoon, whether hotels and motels had been consulted. He assured me that they had and claimed there were no significant concerns. Based on that assurance, the vote passed 6-1 and was set to return to Council on January 27th. I of course, was the dissenting vote. But here’s where it gets worse. At the January 27th Council meeting, I asked the same question again. This time, Mr. Jadoon once again claimed that all hotels had been consulted. I pushed back because I had done my homework—and I had a different answer. Only then did the Mayor finally admit, reading from what looked like a script, that the higher-ups at our biggest hotel—Great Canadian Gaming—had not been consulted and even confirmed they were not on board with charging this new tax. So let me ask you: Why did the Mayor allow this lie to continue? Why didn’t the truth come out until I exposed it? If I hadn’t challenged them, that false information would have stood as fact. And this isn’t the first time this has happened. When I was first elected, Mr. Jadoon claimed that businesses along Kingston Road had been consulted about development plans. Once again, I did my research, and once again, I discovered that it was a complete lie. This pattern of dishonesty is not a mistake—it’s deliberate. And that’s why I keep asking questions and pushing back. Because if I don’t, who will? Thankfully, Councillor Cook seconded my motion to send this tax proposal back to staff for proper consultation. But let’s be clear: two members of Council actually voted against delaying the vote, even after knowing our largest hotel was not supportive. The Mayor, Councillor Nagy, and Mr. Jadoon all argue that a 4% tax increase is insignificant, but when combined with other taxes, it totals a 17% increase—a significant burden on businesses and consumers, especially when people are already struggling to make ends meet. Lying to the public to manipulate outcomes is corruption. And I won’t stand by and let it happen. I’ve already lost three months of pay for daring to say that corruption starts at the top. And here we are—proof that it does. I am Councillor Robinson, 'The People’s Councillor,' and I will continue to fight for transparency, honesty, and the people of Pickering. I am Councillor Lisa Robinson, The People’s Councillor

Including a Cover Letter Gives You a Competitive Advantage

Including a Cover Letter Gives You a Competitive Advantage By Nick Kossovan Nowadays, landing a job requires doing what others don't. Thus, I find the never-ending debate and polarizing opinions about whether to include a cover letter with one's application perplexing. As a job seeker, you should want to do everything possible to differentiate yourself from your competition. The cliche argument against writing a cover letter is that recruiters and hiring managers won't read it; hence, the prevalent thinking among job seekers is that writing a cover letter isn't worth the effort. Nobody accurately knows what percentage of recruiters and hiring managers read cover letters and to what degree a cover letter influences their decision to contact the candidate. Everything I've ever read or heard on whether to include a cover letter has been anecdotal or, at best, a "survey result" that speaks only for those surveyed. Job seekers looking for easy (read: put in as little effort as possible) conveniently dismiss the truism, "Nothing worth having comes easy." Given the competition you face as a job seeker, it's worthwhile to increase your odds as much as possible. In 2025, job seekers must create competitive advantages, which a cover letter does by making it easy for the recipient to connect your qualifications and experience to the job you're applying for. (Yes, it's your responsibility to connect the dots.) Not including a cover letter is a missed opportunity to: 1. Pitch why you're the right candidate for the job. 2. Show that you have taken the time to understand the role and its requirements. (Because so many job seekers spray and pray or use AI application bots, candidates who demonstrate they've actually read and understood the job posting stand out.) 3. Provide additional evidence to support your candidacy. 4. Demonstrate your writing skills. I'm not looking for a debate. I believe the degree to which one desires a goal—how badly one wants it—determines the likelihood of success. Sending a cover letter—or a thank you email (another column)—will undeniably show you're serious about wanting the job and strengthen your application. Moreover, I don't know any hiring manager who'd reject a candidate, assuming they had the qualifications they were seeking, for including a cover letter. However, I know several hiring managers who consider not including a cover letter unprofessional. In previous columns, I've stated that not including a cover letter is lazy. I don't know a hiring manager who hires 'lazy.' There's no question that recruiters and employers gravitate toward applicants with cover letters, if only because it demonstrates that they are more passionate and invested. A common question is whether you should include your cover letter as an attachment or in the body of your email (your resume attached). I recommend including your cover letter in the body of your email, as it'll make a strong first impression when your email is opened. I also recommend that your cover letter be short (75 - 150 words) and concise, which brings me to another reason why you should include a cover letter: it gives the recipient a sense of two essential success-determining skills, regardless of what position you're applying for, your written communication skills and your the ability to sell what tangible value you can bring to the company. "One day I will find the right words, and they will be simple." — Jack Kerouac. Your cover letter has one job: get the recipient to read your resume. With attention spans getting shorter, getting to the point of why you're the right candidate is critical. A skill that'll serve you well throughout your career, regardless of your profession, is to write with brevity, to KISS your reader—keep it short and simple. [date] [recipent's first name] I'm writing to apply for the IT Project Manager position as advertised on Linkedin. Having led Global X's development team (12 IT professionals) for seven years, where I oversaw key projects from conception to delivery, I am an ideal candidate for this opening. Some of my career highlights: · Directed a $5.8 million digital transformation project for an air transport company, which reduced lost/damaged cargo incident rates from 5% to 0.8%. · Reduced the costs of a clothing manufacturer by $2 million by conducting a gap analysis of their supply chain process. · Implemented a cloud migration strategy for over 200 legacy applications, achieving zero downtime and reducing operational costs by 35%. Call me at (416) 555-2368 to schedule a mutually convenient time to discuss the contributions I can make to [company]. Sincerely, Jack Arnold Attached: resume That's it—a 129-word cover letter. No long-winded opinion piece claiming you're a "team player," "detail-oriented," or "a fast learner." Since employers hire results, not opinions you have about yourself, the key is to provide three results not found in your resume or LinkedIn profile, which you've achieved for your employers. Ask yourself: What results did I achieve in previous jobs, projects, or tasks that I have undertaken? If you can't be bothered to write a simple and concise cover letter that may (but is not guaranteed) encourage the hiring manager to contact you, then how badly you want the job becomes questionable. _____________________________________________________________________ Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned veteran of the corporate landscape, offers advice on searching for a job. You can send him your questions at artoffindingwork@gmail.com

Get Up at Night Less Frequently

By W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford Getting up often to pee at night is called “Nocturia” and it’s the great sleep disturber as we age. Frequent peeing could also signal conditions that need medical attention. So you shouldn’t ignore the problem. It’s not polite to go around asking friends how many times they pee at night. But if you did, you’d discover it’s a common malady. Is there a natural remedy to decrease or resolve the causes? Of course, there are the obvious behavioural approaches. If you drink a lot of fluids before bed, unless you are young, you’ll undoubtedly wake up with the need to pee in the middle of the night. Load up on hydration earlier in the day. This is not to say don’t quench your thirst in the evening. Just do so in moderation and make a trip to the loo right before getting into bed. If waking up to pee is still a problem, then alcohol or caffeine consumption might be part of the issue. Try eliminating drinks containing either at least 4-6 hours before sleeping and see if there is an effect. But there are also other natural approaches to managing this challenge with the urinary system. As we age, every system in our body starts to struggle with wear and tear. The most feared problems tend to be the consequences of declining cardiovascular and neurological systems – in other words, coronary attacks, and various forms of dementia. But although the urinary bladder is not often the talk of the town, it too becomes weaker over time. To fight that nightly curse of waking up to pee, it’s worth the effort to nurture the bladder the same way you do the heart, the brain, and every other important part of you. Give it the building blocks of healthy tissue formation so that the organ can operate effectively. The bladder is like a ballon. It expands and contracts to accommodate the volume of urine. When empty, a normal bladder wall has a thickness of almost 3 millimetres and only half that thickness when full. With age, the elastic tissue may toughen and become less stretchy. This makes it harder for the bladder to hold as much urine, creating more frequent needs for visits to the bathroom. Like the heart and arteries therefore, the bladder also depends on healthy cells forming healthy tissues. Among the most important ingredients vitamin C and lysine in the high amounts required to fuel the body’s natural mechanisms for maintenance and defence, especially in light of all the toxins and junk our bodies receive daily, not to mention the aging process! Our suggestion is 1,000 milligrams (mg) in the morning and another 1,000 mg at bedtime. If after a week no problems, such as diarrhea occur, try 1,000 in the morning and 2,000 mg at bedtime for another week. Then, again, if possible, increase to 1,000 mg in the morning and 3,000 mg at bedtime for several months. High vitamin C and lysine is safe, effective, increases immunity and decreases the risk of coronary attack and stroke. You can and should talk with your doctor. But if there is no serious medical issue causing nocturia, then before trying pharmaceutical drugs, work on the natural properties of your body to take care of itself. There’s no harm in trying, and significant gains if simple changes in behaviour and nutrition resolve the issue. We’d like to ask readers suffering from this problem who find success with this approach to nocturia to let us know. 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

THE AMERICAN AGE OF AQUARIUS

By Joe Ingino B.A. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States It is as if the heavens have parted and a fresh ray of American hope is beaming down upon the world and re-writing all the wrongs. In less than ten days Trump has made history on numerous fronts and changed American society like no one before. He has managed to send a message across the globe that things are about to change and to change fast. This is so refreshing. To finally see a leader with the right stuff. Getting rid of the wrong. Getting rid of greed and careered nobodies sitting in office pretending to be in touch with the common folk. So much change has long been needed across the world. scholars and intellectuals have been keeping an eye on a phenomenon in the horizon, that was unexplainable until now. It was believed to be of biblical, cosmic in proportion with a hit of good old lady luck magic. The bible told us of a man coming up the ranks to lead us. Others have said that the coming of a cosmic event was a matter of time. Others are now call it ‘The Age Of Aquarius’. What is the ‘Age of Aquarius’? The period from 2020 to 2026 marks a zone of significant transformations, a time of exceptional changes, and a substantial leap into a new era, “the Age of Aquarius. The Age of Aquarius is an astrological age that some believe is a time of social, political, and personal change. It's also a term used to describe the New Age movement of the 1960s and 1970s. Another view suggests that the rise of scientific rationalism, combined with the fall of religious influence, the increasing focus on human rights since the 1780s, the exponential growth of technology, plus the advent of flight and space travel, are evidence of the dawning of the age of Aquarius. Jesus was the one who announced the Age of Aquarius and said, “A man will meet you carrying an earthen pitcher of water; follow him into the house where he goes in”. Interesting... A man will meet you. Trump and his earthen pitcher of water. Water a fluid a pure, clear substance.... that may be interpreted as science and technology. Leading us to the White HOUSE. What changes will the age of Aquarius bring? The Aquarian Age is a time of great complexity as our sense of personal identity and our very foundation shifts. Expect developments in all arenas, including scientific discoveries, technological advancements, and societal shifts. On an individual level, change and learning will be lifelong and constant. Interesting if you give it a thought. We have Trump at the helm with interests in space. He has managed to partner up with Elon Musk. He is promising serious change and global supremacy. The American age of Aquarius is upon us. We need to embrace this shift back to humanity. Back to what makes sense and to what made the west the empire it was and is.

Fear-Mongering, Control, and Public Mischief: Pickering’s Leadership is Undermining Democracy

Fear-Mongering, Control, and Public Mischief: Pickering’s Leadership is Undermining Democracy The City of Pickering’s decision to move council meetings online under the pretense of safety is nothing more than a calculated, cynical effort to stifle dissent, manipulate public perception, and consolidate power. Let’s be clear: this isn’t about safety—it’s about control. The over-the-top deployment of police officers at council meetings, combined with the laughable propaganda video released weeks ago, makes it abundantly clear: they’re fabricating fear to justify authoritarian measures and silence the growing voices of discontent among the residents. If there were truly credible threats, would the mayor and staff invite their families—wives, children, even eight-year-old grandchildren—to council meetings? Would councillors freely attend ribbon-cuttings and photo ops without so much as a police officer in sight? Or how about our New Year’s Eve celebrations or the Mayor’s Levee with hundreds of attendees and maybe a single police officer? Would my female colleague casually ride a scooter alone in public? These actions completely betray their claims of danger and expose this shift to virtual meetings for what it truly is: a pretext to shut down public engagement, not to protect anyone. We’re being fed the tired, old excuse that public officials are somehow in danger—a pathetic, overused refrain designed to justify controlling measures. But let’s be real: politicians in public service always face threats, insults, and sometimes worse. It’s part of the job. If they can’t handle it, then they should get out of public office. The mayor, council, and staff are far more concerned with avoiding accountability than actually serving the people. They’re more interested in playing with their phones, rolling their eyes, flailing their arms in the air or trying to storm out of meetings when things don’t go their way. Watch how they look visibly irritated, acting like spoiled children when they’re asked to do their job. The mayor can’t even resist watching sporting events during council sessions. And let’s not forget how they race through a consent agenda, proudly declaring "democracy quick tonight," with no debate, no questions, and no input from the public. They’ve turned council meetings into a joke. They’re timing themselves to see who can wrap things up the fastest. Who can shut down debate the quickest? Who can call for a consent agenda with the least amount of thought? This isn’t leadership; it’s a mockery of the democratic process. They have no respect for the people they serve or the issues that matter to this community. It’s all about convenience for them. This is not leadership. This is public mischief. The mayor and council have made it crystal clear: they don’t want to do their job. They don’t want to be held accountable. They’d rather be on vacation, glued to their devices, or anywhere but engaging with the public and doing what they were elected to do. They’ve taken my pay as punishment for standing up for you, the people. But they can’t take your pay, so they’ve chosen to take away your voice. By refusing to provide you with an arena to be heard—by shutting down in-person participation—they’ve stolen another vital right from you. They’ve already silenced you with their absurd policies and procedures that restrict your ability to speak and record. And now, they’ve gone even further. You won’t even be able to attend meetings, raise your concerns face-to-face, and hold your elected officials accountable. Instead, they’ll simply mute your microphone or cut the connection when they don’t like what you have to say. This is an attack on democracy, plain and simple. It’s an attack on your right to be heard. In the weeks leading up to the Mayor and staff’s decision to push for virtual meetings, they called for the deployment of two, then four, paid-duty officers at our council meetings. And as if that wasn’t enough, Durham Regional Police sent an additional ten officers—just out of the “goodness of their hearts.” This is an outrageous waste of taxpayer dollars and a calculated attempt to manufacture fear. While our streets are being overrun with rising crime—carjackings, human trafficking, gun violence—police officers are being pulled away from real emergencies to babysit peaceful meetings of fewer than 30 people. There has been no history of violence in our council chambers during my entire tenure. This isn’t about safety. It’s about creating a façade of fear to intimidate residents and shut them out of the conversation. It’s an abuse of power and resources, plain and simple. What makes this even more egregious is the fact that the city had already planned to move meetings online this late spring or perhaps early summer due to council chamber renovations. So, instead of relocating to an accessible venue—like a recreation center—to ensure continued in-person public engagement, they seized this opportunity to shut the public out entirely. By hiding behind manufactured fear, they’ve bypassed their responsibility to engage with the public face-to-face. Why spend millions renovating chambers when they no longer intend to use them for public participation? Even more telling, they’ve announced no events will be held there except weddings. See the pattern here? The decision to go virtual under the guise of "fear" is nothing more than a strategic move to stop the inevitable pushback and anger they knew would erupt once the renovations started. Instead of relocating to a more accessible venue to ensure continued public engagement, they used fear as a cover to shut down opposition. There was—and still is—absolutely no legitimate reason to go virtual. This isn’t about safety; it’s about avoiding accountability and silencing the public's voice. The timing is no coincidence. Public frustration with council’s decisions has been mounting, and residents have been showing up to voice their concerns. This shift to virtual meetings conveniently ensures fewer residents can hold their leaders accountable, while council continues to push their narrative uninterrupted. To make matters worse, rumors are circulating that other municipalities and levels of government, inspired by the ease with which Pickering has silenced dissent, may follow suit. Imagine the vacations our councillors could take while attending meetings from the comfort of a beach chair, all while avoiding accountability and criticism. And let’s not forget the bigger agenda at play. The council’s manufactured fear aligns perfectly with their push to change the Municipal Act, giving themselves the power to remove elected officials who don’t fall in line. By smearing critics as extremists or conspiracy theorists, they’re laying the groundwork for a system where disagreement is punished and democracy is replaced with dictatorship. This isn’t leadership—it’s authoritarianism, disguised as governance. Pickering’s residents deserve better—much, much better. We deserve leaders who show up to work, who actually listen to us, and who are willing to be held accountable. We deserve leaders who prioritize fixing our crumbling infrastructure over wasting millions on unnecessary renovations. If you haven’t taken a good look at the schematics for your shiny new council chambers, I strongly suggest you do so. You’ll be shocked to see that staff have pushed through a design that looks more like a courtroom than a place where your voice should be heard. The focus will now be on the Mayor and two unelected bureaucrats—the CAO and the City Clerk—staring down at you. So, ask yourself: who’s really running the show at the Corporation of the City of Pickering? You will no longer be able to look your elected representatives in the eye—the very people you voted for to be your voice in the chamber. This isn’t democracy, folks. It’s a mockery of it. Pickering deserves leaders who value transparency and public engagement over propaganda, fear-mongering, and control. The people of Pickering are speaking up because they are tired of being silenced. It’s time for our leaders to start listening instead of hiding behind virtual screens, excessive police presence, and manufactured fear. Democracy doesn’t thrive on control and censorship—it thrives on debate, dissent, and accountability. This farce must end. I am Councillor Lisa Robinson, The People’s Councillor