LEADING THE LIFE YOU WANT

Leading the Life You Want Common Sense Health – Diana Gifford-Jones There’s something quietly heartbreaking about waiting too long to start living the life you might have had all along. An 83-year-old reader wrote to me recently. For decades, this person lived with social exclusion, low self-esteem, and fear. Then, just last year, they did something about it. They signed up for modern line dancing at a local community centre. I don’t know if it was a decision taken after a lot of soul searching, or if it was a whim, something more frivolous. But the same result, either way. Everything changed. Some things were evident right away. Others came over time, and they were physical, mental, emotional, and social. Enough for the reader to report, with a sense of regret, “It makes me want to start life over again… and do things differently. Better. With more enjoyment.” That last line lingers. It invites the question. Why do people wait? Not everyone does. Hopefully not long-time Gifford-Jones readers. But my suspicion is that a lot of people do. They wait until retirement to travel. They wait until illness to value health. They wait until loneliness becomes noticeably painful before reaching out. They wait for permission to be a little bit different than everyone has come to expect. Well, guess what? That permission is not coming. Years ago, I heard a story about a young man who didn’t know what he wanted to do with his life. He asked an older, wiser fellow for advice. The answer was stark. “Go to the beach. Sit there. Look at the ocean. And don’t come back until you know.” The suggestion to go away and think deeply about it sounds absurd in today’s lightening-paced, hyperconnected world. But it’s not that hard to do, in fact. Just put the phone down and shut away any other distractions. Schedule time for focused thinking in blocks of two or three hours. Set up a spot for thinking – someplace not too comfortable, but attractive. Then go there and do your thinking – for as many sessions as it takes. You’ll figure something out soon enough. And then you have to go for it. We don’t give ourselves the time or the discomfort needed to think clearly about what we want. We fill every quiet moment with noise and distraction. And so the years pass, not in crisis, but in drift. Research in psychology has long shown that novelty and social connection are powerful medicines. Trying something new. Even something as unassuming as line dancing can stimulate the brain, improve balance and cardiovascular health, and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. It’s not just about the activity. It’s about stepping outside the box quietly built around ourselves. At 83, you can still change your life. At 63, you can still change your life. At 23, you can still change your life. The difference is how much time you have left to enjoy it. But if you are at the older end of the spread, you know it’s not all about duration. Quality of experience, even if flirting, can last a lifetime, even retroactively. So here’s the drill. Take a step. A small one is enough. Sign up for something. Call someone. Go somewhere. And if you truly don’t know what you want? Find your own “beach.” Sit quietly. Think deeply. And don’t get up until you know. I did just this upon the passing of my father several months ago. And now I’m writing this column. It’s an intensely high-quality weekly experience that I hope will last for a long time.

The Quiet Majority: When Survival Replaces Voice

The Quiet Majority: When Survival Replaces Voice By Dale Jodoin Columnist I am a columnist . I deal in facts, not noise. And here is a hard one to sit with. Most Canadians are not part of the fight you see every day. They are trying to survive. That is not a slogan. That is the reality showing up at kitchen tables across this country. Bills stacked. Phones buzzing with payment reminders. People doing the math in their heads before they even get out of bed. Something has shifted. You can feel it. This is not just about politics anymore. It is about pressure. The kind that builds slowly, then all at once. The kind that makes people pull back from everything except what keeps them afloat. Rent is high. Food costs more than it should. Gas prices jump without warning. One week it feels manageable. The next, it does not. A simple drive to work turns into a quiet stress you carry all day. People are not arguing about big ideas. They are asking simple questions. Can I afford groceries this week.Can I fill the tank. Can I keep the lights on. That is where the country is sitting right now. And while that is happening, something else is going on at the same time. There are voices with time, energy, and support pushing hard for attention, for change, for recognition. Some of that is fair. Some of it is needed. But it is loud. Constant. Hard to ignore. And then there is everyone else. The majority. They are not pushing anything. They are not organizing. They are not showing up to every debate. They are working. Raising families. Looking after aging parents. Trying to hold their lives together. They are not silent because they do not care. They are silent because they are overwhelmed. That difference matters. When you are stretched thin, you do not take on extra weight. You drop what you can. And for many Canadians, what gets dropped is the larger conversation. Not out of anger. Out of survival. But silence has consequences. When the majority steps back, the conversation does not stop. It shifts. The loudest voices fill the space. Policies get shaped. Narratives get built. Decisions move forward. And the people who stepped back look up one day and think, when did this happen That is where the unease starts. It is not loud anger. It is something quieter. A feeling that things are moving without you. That your daily struggle does not count the same way. That your problems are too ordinary to matter. Because being able to pay your bills is not seen as an urgent policy. But it is urgent to the people living it. Look at the systems people rely on. Education is under strain. Parents worry about what their kids are learning, but also about what is missing. Classrooms are stretched. Teachers are doing what they can, but it feels like something is slipping. Then there is health care. This is where the fear turns real. People are afraid to go to the hospital. Not because they doubt the people working there, but because they know what they might face. Long waits. No doctors available. Hours that turn into a full day sitting in a chair, watching the clock. And it is worse when it is not you. It is your father struggling to breathe. Your wife is in pain. Your child with a fever that will not break. You sit there, waiting, hoping nothing gets worse before someone can help. That stays with people. It changes how they think. It changes what they fear. So when another debate starts, when another issue demands attention, people look at their own lives and think, I cannot carry that too. That is how the quiet majority is formed. Not by choice. By pressure. At the same time, there is a growing push to tell people how they should think, what they should say, what they should support. Even when the intention is to help, the delivery can feel forced. That creates a quiet resistance. People do not argue. They do not protest. They step back further. They nod, stay polite, and return to their lives. But here is where it gets dangerous. When the majority steps away, even for good reason, it leaves the direction of the country in fewer hands. Not necessarily bad hands, but fewer. That is how imbalance grows. A small group, driven and active, can shape the path. A large group, tired and silent, can lose its influence without even noticing. And over time, that gap widens. The country starts to feel unfamiliar, not because it changed overnight, but because most people were not part of the change as it happened. That is the quiet shift happening right now. It is not loud. It is not dramatic. It is slow. And that is what makes it harder to see. Most Canadians are not extreme. They are not hateful. They are not looking for conflict. They want stability. They want fairness. They want a chance to live without constant pressure closing in on them. They wake up tired. They go to work. They come home and try to make things work again the next day. If you listen, really listen, you hear the same line everywhere. I do not have a problem with anyone. I just want to live my life. That should mean something. But right now, it is getting lost. Because systems do not respond to quiet. They respond to pressure. So the people who are struggling the most, the ones holding everything together, are also the ones least heard. That is not just unfair. It is risky. A country cannot stay balanced if its majority is too tired to take part. It cannot stay steady if the people carrying the weight feel like they are not part of the direction. Eventually, something gives. Not all at once. Not with a bang. But slowly. People disconnect. Trust fades. The sense of shared ground weakens. And when that happens, it becomes harder to bring things back together. This is not about picking sides. It is about recognizing what is happening before it goes too far. The quiet majority is not the problem. But if it stays quiet for too long, it may not recognize the country it helped build.And by then, speaking up will feel a lot harder than it does today.

Mr. X Explains the Development Charge Paradox

Mr. X Explains the Development Charge Paradox A comprehensive Ontario municipal finance white paper on Development Charge rates, housing supply, and long-term fiscal sustainability 1. Introduction Ontario municipalities rely on Development Charges (DCs) to fund growth-related infrastructure. While intended to ensure that growth pays for growth, Development Charges can unintentionally suppress development activity when set beyond optimal levels. This paper explains the Development Charge Paradox using an adapted Laffer Curve framework. 2. Ontario Development Charge Framework Development Charges are governed by Ontario’s Development Charges Act and implemented through municipal background studies. Recent reforms, including Bill 23, reduced recoverability, introduced mandatory discounts, and constrained indexing. These changes increase development sensitivity to DC rate decisions. 3. The Development Charge Paradox At a Development Charge Rate of zero, Development Charge Revenue is also zero. As rates increase, revenue initially rises. Beyond an optimal point, higher DC rates suppress housing development faster than per-unit charges increase, resulting in declining Development Charge Revenue. 4. Equal Revenue, Unequal Outcomes The curve demonstrates that the same Development Charge Revenue can be achieved at two different Development Charge Rates. A low-rate, high-growth environment produces strong housing delivery and assessment growth. A high-rate, low-growth environment produces stagnation, even if short-term revenues appear similar. 5. Benefits of Lower Development Charge Rates Lower Development Charge Rates improve project feasibility, accelerate housing starts, support missing-middle and rental housing, and broaden the long-term municipal tax base. 6. Risks of Development Charge Rates Set Too Low If Development Charge Rates are set too low, municipalities may face infrastructure funding timing gaps. These risks can be managed through capital phasing, debt financing, and improved growth planning rather than suppressing development. 7. The Optimal Development Charge Rate The peak of the curve represents the optimal Development Charge Rate. At this point, Development Charge Revenue and housing delivery are maximized simultaneously, aligning municipal revenue objectives with housing supply goals. 8. Laissez-Faire Economics and Necessary Government Intervention Development Charge policy should generally follow laissez-faire economic principles, allowing market forces to determine pricing, supply, and investment decisions. However, where Development Charges are reduced to stimulate housing delivery, a degree of targeted government intervention is necessary to ensure that these reductions are reflected in housing prices rather than being absorbed entirely into developer margins. 9. Consequences of Excessively High Development Charge Rates Excessively high Development Charge Rates delay or cancel projects, encourage land banking, shift growth to other municipalities, and ultimately reduce Development Charge Revenue. 10. Long-Term Municipal Fiscal Impacts Development Charges are a one-time revenue source, while property taxes are recurring. Municipalities that prioritize long-term assessment growth over short-term DC maximization achieve greater fiscal sustainability. 11. Conclusion The Development Charge Paradox demonstrates that higher Development Charge Rates do not guarantee higher revenue. Optimal outcomes occur when Development Charges balance infrastructure funding with housing supply, economic vitality, and long-term municipal prosperity.

I didn’t do it for fame or power

I didn’t do it for fame or power Last year I served on Pickering City Council and worked every day for the people who elected me. I didn’t do it for fame or power — I did it because I believe in truth, transparency, and accountability in local government. My compensation for that service was about $15,000 plus benefits for the year — far less than many residents make in a month and certainly not life‑changing. Contrast that with ongoing conversations about compensation paid to Pickering’s mayor and councillors — a conversation that shouldn’t be dismissed because it touches on something real and deeply felt in our community. A recent post and social media discussions have cited figures suggesting that the total compensation for Pickering’s mayor — including salary, benefits, pension, committee fees, and allowances — was about $318,000 in 2025. The mayor himself publicly acknowledged that some of those totals were overstated by roughly $58,000 compared to his base salary and official disclosures, but even so, figures well over $250,000 for a municipality that can’t officially claim the higher mayoral powers assigned to municipalities of 100,000 or more are raising eyebrows for residents watching every dollar they spend. Pickering’s population is often cited as “close to 100,000,” but that number only recently crossed that threshold — a threshold that grants expanded powers and authority under the Municipal Act. For years we governed below that number. That’s important because the Municipal Act specifically attaches additional powers to municipalities once they reach a population of 100,000. And yet here we are, discussing compensation packages that rival much larger cities. Let’s put it in perspective: Pickering’s population is allegedly 100,000, yet we still function with the same core municipal responsibilities as all smaller cities across Ontario. Toronto’s population is over 3 million people — more than 30 times larger than Pickering — yet the Mayor of Toronto’s base compensation sits significantly below the totals being discussed for our mayor when all remuneration is included. At the same time, all members of Pickering City Council — both at the city and regional level — draw compensation and, in many cases, allowances and reimbursements for meetings, travel, and committee work. Members of Durham Regional Council also collect regional remuneration and expense payouts on top of their municipal compensation. These are public servants, yes — but they are paid roles funded by taxpayers. Here’s what troubles many residents: it often seems that people who follow the status quo at council are rewarded, while those who speak up about what they see as wasteful spending, lack of transparency, or misleading information are punished. In my experience — and in the experience of many citizens across municipalities now — there is a troubling trend where elected officials who raise difficult questions or challenge the majority face not reasoned debate but code of conduct complaints and political pressure. This isn’t just about numbers. It’s about how power is exercised. Right now, municipal leaders in Ontario are considering changes to the Municipal Act that would expand the authority of integrity commissioners and councillors to remove an elected member of council — effectively taking away the democratic rights of the people who voted for that person. If you don’t follow the status quo, your own council colleagues could file complaints with an integrity commissioner, and the same council could vote to have you removed from office. That isn’t democratic — that’s a warning sign for anyone who cares about real representation. This is not unique to Pickering. Across Ontario and beyond, we’re seeing local officials who speak openly about what they see — wasteful spending, lack of accountability, decisions that don’t reflect taxpayers’ priorities — being targeted with conduct complaints, legal threats, and political pushback. It sends a chilling message to anyone thinking about public service: Speak up, and you may pay a price. Stay quiet, and the status quo stays in place. That’s not how democracy is supposed to work. Local government should be a place where serious issues are discussed openly and where accountability isn’t just a buzzword but a lived practice. Residents deserve clarity on how compensation is calculated, what’s included in “total compensation,” and — most importantly — whether these compensation levels reflect the priorities of the very people who pay the bills. So here’s the question taxpayers in Pickering and all of Durham Region should be asking: Should a mayor in a city of just over 100,000 people — with councillors at both the city and regional level drawing additional allowances — see total compensation approaching or exceeding what leaders in cities with millions of residents earn? And should the Municipal Act be changed so that elected officials can be removed by council and an integrity commissioner rather than by the voters who elected them? This isn’t just about a number on a pay stub. This is about fairness, democracy, and trust. Taxpayers deserve better. They deserve answers. And they deserve leaders who aren’t afraid to ask difficult questions without being silenced.

PARBUCKLING THE HMS METROLAND

PARBUCKLING THE HMS METROLAND From The Bottom Of The Corporate Sea 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 have been stating this for months: internet posting is dead. First, too many people are posting and calling themselves media. Second, there is no sustainable revenue in online advertising. The internet operates on statistics designed deceive the average business, and this is evident in the lack of advertising revenue among many online outlets.. Without revenue, maintaining a viable online presence becomes nearly impossible—despite the fact that many simply copy and paste news releases. I have known for months that Metroland’s online operations were struggling. I have spoken with members of the small staff maintaining their online presence, and they indicated that conditions were deteriorating. In what appears to be corporate greed or desperation, Metroland eliminated a significant portion—if not all—of its print publications. This decision left workers, communities, and advertisers in a state of uncertainty. It sent a troubling message across the industry. The move was, in many respects, morally questionable and executed without adequate consideration for the communities affected. Now, there appears to be an attempt to “parbuckle” the sunken HMS Metroland—from the depths of the bankruptcy protection sea in an effort to revive the brand for what may be one final attempt at advertising revenue in two of their most lucrative former markets. Parbuckling: A specialized technique used to roll a capsized or sunken ship upright. Namely bring back the METROLAND brand for one final dig in the pockets of nostalgia? Can a sunken ship be raised? Yes, a sunken ship can be raised, but it depends on the vessel's depth, structural integrity, and the cost of the salvage operation. Here is where the HMS METROLAND may find itself in dangerous waters. Do they believe former advertisers will return after previously disengaging due to poor performance metrics? Is the structural integrity of the brand still buoyant? One hopes advertisers are not so naive. Metroland has lost its distribution networks and now proposes a monthly publication schedule. This risks becoming another Corporate “Titanic”—an avoidable failure. Recently, a letter circulated stating: As a 25-year veteran of community news, I have been witness to and at the forefront of changes large and small. In 2023, one of those changes was to stop printing and delivering WhitbyThis Week and Oshawa This Week, focusing solely on digital news and information at durhamregion.com. A complete failure in some industry critics eyes. This move put them under bankruptcy protection and destroyed their distribution networks... leaving them with NO READERSHIP. THIS TRANSLATED TO THEIR ONLINE... AS PEOPLE LOST CONFIDENCE. What didn’t change was our priority to provide you the local information you’ve told us you need and the community journalism you can’t find anywhere else. But, in the past two-plus years, we’ve heard from many of our readers that you missed the ritual of reading a physical newspaper. We missed that connection too. This move to online only had a huge cut back on people they employed. Affecting the livelihood of many. They did not care. And so, I am thrilled to share with you the return of Whitby This Week and Oshawa This Week as monthly publications. This exciting change is rooted in our commitment to Whitby and Oshawa and the knowledge that local journalism is essential to a democracy and a healthy community. or could it be that it is an election year and think they can negotiate advertising revenue through campaign advertising. This failing to recognize that both of those municipalities have opted to go electronic and that they have alloted no money in their budgets for newsprint advertising. Maybe they are counting on the many department heads with their hands out to re-kindle old kick backs schemes for advertising? It is also about the future. We are investing in the next generation by hiring 20 new editorial interns in newsrooms across Ontario. These fresh voices will work alongside our veteran reporters to cover the stories that matter most to you. It is not about the future as they claim. It is about their bottom line. A line that is at the bottom of reality sea. 20 interns... Why don’t they hire all the one’s they let go. Instead they still disrespect the community by hiring cheaper interns.. What an insult to the community. We are also proud to relaunch "Metroland Gives Back." Every issue will provide free advertising space to a local charity. It is our way of supporting the organizations that make our neighborhoods a better place to live. We hope you enjoy this return to print, and that it gives you a stronger connection to us and our community. Sincerely, Lee Ann Waterman Group Publisher and Vice-President, Editorial. Advertisers... be aware of the past. Learn from our history and don’t waste your dollars on a Parbuckled vessel that has left port and previous left you behind. No distribution = No readership. Free publications by their own admission have no readership. Are you prepare to waste good advertising dollars on nostalgia of proven to fail? Think about it.

Canada’s Housing Crisis Is Now a Test of Leadership

Canada’s Housing Crisis Is Now a Test of Leadership by Maj (ret’d) CORNELIU, CHISU, CD, PMSC FEC, CET, P.Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East Canada’s housing crisis is no longer a market fluctuation. It is a structural failure, one that now tests the country’s economic credibility, social cohesion, and political leadership. For too long, housing was treated as a local issue, shaped by municipal zoning and market forces. That approach has collapsed under the weight of reality. Population growth has surged, supply has lagged, and affordability has deteriorated to the point where even middle-class Canadians are under strain. What we face today is not simply high prices. It is a system that no longer delivers fairness. Recent signals from policymakers suggest that governments are beginning to understand the scale of the challenge. The economic framing associated with Mark Carney and the more assertive supply-side actions of Doug Ford point in the right direction. However, direction alone is not enough.Execution is what will matter. Canada’s housing shortage is the result of years of underbuilding relative to population growth. Immigration—vital to our economic future—has increased demand, but without a matching expansion in supply. The consequences are visible across the country. Homeownership is increasingly out of reach for younger Canadians. Rent consumes a growing share of income. Skilled workers are priced out of the very cities that depend on them.This is no longer just an affordability issue. It is a question of whether Canada still offers a viable path to stability and upward mobility. Mark Carney’s recent interventions have helped reframe the debate. Housing is not merely a private asset; it is core economic infrastructure. Canada has been highly effective at attracting capital. But too much of that capital has flowed into existing real estate, inflating prices, rather than into new housing supply. The policy implication is straightforward: we must redirect incentives. Governments should prioritize purpose-built rental construction, support long-term institutional investment, and reduce the distortions that reward speculation over building. If we treat housing as infrastructure—like transportation or energy—we begin to understand the scale and urgency of what is required. At the provincial level, Doug Ford’s approach has targeted a long-standing obstacle: municipal gatekeeping. Zoning restrictions, slow approvals, and local opposition have limited density in precisely the areas where it is most needed. Ontario’s efforts to mandate housing targets and streamline approvals reflect an uncomfortable truth. Left to their own devices, many municipalities will not approve enough housing.These measures are not without controversy. But the alternative is continued paralysis. Canada cannot solve a national housing crisis if local constraints consistently override national priorities. The central weakness in Canada’s response remains a lack of coordination.The federal government sets immigration levels and provides funding. Provinces control planning frameworks. Municipalities regulate land use. Each operates within its mandate, but the system as a whole lacks alignment. This fragmentation produces predictable outcomes: delays, inefficiencies, and missed targets. A credible strategy would link these elements. Immigration levels should be aligned with housing capacity. Federal funding should be conditional on municipal performance. Provinces must enforce timelines and accountability. Without coordination, even the right policies will fail. Housing is not just an economic issue. It is the foundation of social stability. When working Canadians cannot afford to live where they work, the consequences are far-reaching. Healthcare systems struggle to recruit. Businesses cannot find employees. Commutes lengthen, productivity declines, and inequality deepens. More fundamentally, public confidence erodes. A country where effort no longer leads to security risks losing the trust that underpins its institutions. Canada has faced national challenges before. Each required leadership willing to move beyond incrementalism. We need to build at scale, not at the margins. We need to rebalance incentives toward supply, not speculation. More importantly, we need governments prepared to confront local resistance when it conflicts with national interest. The early signals from leaders like Mark Carney and Premier Doug Ford suggest that the diagnosis is improving. However, diagnosis is not delivery. The real test is whether Canada can translate intent into action which is coordinated, sustained, and ambitious. Because in the end, this is not just about housing. It is about whether Canada remains a country where opportunity is attainable—or becomes one where it is quietly out of reach. What do you think?

Together We Can Fly..

. By Wayne Ellis Treasurer of COPA FLIGHT 70 This past week, I presented four Cadet Squadrons with a very special surprise. Normally, each Cadet Squadron receives one hour of flight time. I felt that was not enough, so I took the initiative to do something about it. I approached various companies and solicited their help. At first, I was a little reluctant, as it felt unfamiliar. Soon enough, I found out that many people are willing to step up and help. With my efforts, along with the generosity of those I approached, I was able to secure 20 hours of flight time for cadets. This is great news, as the more cadets we can get into an airplane, the better it is. These are young minds who sign up to better their lives through the science of flight. I felt it was the only honorable thing to do—and it worked. This past week, we held our presentation ceremony. It was there that I met the Editor and Publisher of The Central. As soon as I told him what I had accomplished, he wanted to get involved. He wanted to take part in this great effort that is taking off like wildfire. Mr. Ingino was so impressed by the initiative that he invited me to write a column to share my experiences and my role as Treasurer of COPA Flight 70. He was so supportive that he extended a partnership with a proposed fundraising target of $12,000. This would allow us to provide 40 more hours of flight time. This is tremendous news. This new initiative in the paper allows local businesses to take out a 3x5 ad. Normally, one week would cost $400. Mr. Ingino is offering two weeks for $400 plus tax, and in turn, he will donate $200 to COPA toward the $12,000 target. I believe Mr. Ingino has shown great leadership through this partnership with COPA. We need more local business owners to take the initiative and get involved. I am a retired educator, and I know first hand the developmental stages of a young mind—their insecurities, their dreams, and their aspirations. As a former school principal, I saw that every student had the potential for greatness. Many, with the right coaching and motivation, can achieve it. Others, however, fall to the side due to many factors—economics, family circumstances, and unforeseen challenges that can impede academic growth and development. As a member of COPA, I see these cadets enter the program with great aspirations—open minds and the spark of hope to one day take to the sky.As it stands, due to the cost of flight time, access has been limited to only a few. The goal is to leave no young mind behind—to give them the opportunity to experience flight first hand. I can tell you from personal experience as a pilot: there is no greater feeling than taking flight. To feel the freedom and the ability to control an aircraft in the air is something truly special. I remember when I purchased my first aircraft and had to fly it a long distance home. I was scared, tired, and concerned—but I could not have been happier. To be in my own aircraft for hours, flying home, is a feeling no one can ever take away from me. This is, in part, why I started this initiative. I am grateful to all who have been generous enough to donate and contribute so far, and I am thankful for this new partnership with The Central Newspaper. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can truly take off and fly wherever our imagination leads us. There is no limit to the possibilities. There is no limit to our ability to dream. If you can help, we would greatly appreciate it. The cadets will be forever grateful. Thank you.

The Illusion of a Social Norm - How Everyone is an Exception to Social Rules

The Illusion of a Social Norm - How Everyone is an Exception to Social Rules By Camryn Bland Youth Columnist In highschool, it can feel almost impossible to be your authentic, full self. Students are constantly influenced by peer pressure, social standards, and comparison to others. It is evident when you walk into a classroom and see every girl in the same leggings and uggs, every guy with the same haircut and sweater. The similarities are clear, however the source of the standard is untraceable. The ending is unclear, as these similarities are not limited to just high school, following us throughout our entire lives. From a young age, we are often taught who we are supposed to be. Friends, family, teachers, and peers all have their own perspective on how you should act, and who you should be. As a kid, your friends may influence you to be louder, funnier, and more social, while a teacher may praise you for being quiet and introverted. None of these influences are directly wrong or negative, they are all trying to form a well-rounded individual. However, it can be confusing and make it difficult to distinguish what you really want from the loudest influences. When everyone around you has a different idea of who you should be, it becomes difficult to hear your own voice and your own wants. You start to wonder if your choices are really yours, or just reflections of others. As you get older, these contrasting expectations don’t disappear, they evolve. You become more aware of the “social norm,” a combination of expectations that seems impossible to avoid. In elementary school, the norm might be as simple as liking certain games or fitting into friend groups. In high school, it becomes more intense, and rigid; what you wear, how you act, who you hang out with, and what you post can feel like they define your entire life. If you make one mistake, reject what is defined as “normal” one time, your entire social life feels endangered. This norm even follows into adulthood, where its focus shifts to success, relationships, career paths, and lifestyle. There is always an unspoken standard which defines behavior, even if we cannot directly see it. The ironic part is, nobody perfectly fits the social norm. It’s an illusion, a constantly moving target which changes based on who you’re around. Since the rule is always changing, we’re all exceptions to a rule that doesn’t truly exist. This just increases the confusion which began at a young age, the question if you are your own person or a combination of the expectations which surround you. It creates a lifestyle of uncertainty and confusion instead of confidence and certainty. The norm isn’t something anyone naturally is, it’s a performance. Both online and in person, there is a constant trend of people being called performative or fake due to their fashion, interests, or behavior. However, it’s all hypocritical, as we are all performing to some capacity. Trying to change ourselves, even if it seems in the smallest way, is the show we cannot escape. Whether it be online or with a social group, it is practically impossible to not let ourselves be changed, especially when it is hard to understand your authentic self in the first place. Social media only intensifies the pressure and performance. Instead of trying to keep up with the standards of the people directly around us, we are now trying to keep up with the standards of thousands of people. We see the carefully curated versions of other people’s lives through a screen, and try to match it to seem trendy or likeable. The result is a constant feeling of falling short, unable to keep up with an online highlight reel. It is clear we are all a little performative, influenced by the norms we cannot control or escape. We adjust how we act depending on where we are and who we’re with. That doesn’t make us fake or ingenuine, it makes us human. The goal isn’t to completely reject the idea of social norms, which is an expectation even harder than keeping up with the norms themselves. Instead, the challenge is to recognize standards without completely losing yourself to them. The first step to moving past the norm is to figure out which parts of yourself feel real when no one is watching. It’s about choosing which standards to keep and what to let go of. Through this, it’s easier to learn about yourself and the interests, new and old, that feel the most “you.” Finding your authentic self isn’t about escaping influence entirely, an impossible goal. Social pressure is something which exists from the second we are born, starting with our parents and evolving into the opinions of everyone we surround ourselves with. These influences are not always negative, and that's important to remember. So, instead of avoiding the influence and standard, the goal is to learn how to exist within the expectations, without letting them define you altogether.

The Killing Of A Profession Scoundrels - Pretender & Wanabe’s

The Killing Of A Profession Scoundrels - Pretender & Wanabe’s By Joe Ingino BA. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800 ,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States This past week, we witnessed Whitby councillor Victoria Bozinovski asking the town to report back on how to get around the law and not hire legal immigrants. This is illegal, racist, xenophobic, and unacceptable. In turn, it could cost the Town hundreds of thousands of dollars to defend. My stance on immigration is not the issue here. If you want your opinions on immigration reform heard, take them to your local MP. Understanding the law and jurisdiction is an essential life skill. This situation sparked interest from a right-wing, online-only, self-proclaimed news group. Here is where the problem arises. Today, anyone and everyone can claim to be a journalist—and that is far from the truth. It is also an insult to a profession that has played a very important role in society. In this case, Rebel News took it upon itself to go after an elected official. No justification can rationalize unprofessional behaviour. This particular reporter acted more like an activist than a bona fide journalist. Journalism, by definition, involves researching, gathering, verifying, and presenting news and information to the public through print or broadcast. Journalists act as community watchdogs, maintaining accountability while operating under ethical guidelines to provide accurate, fair, and contextual information. What took place was not reporting. It was not journalism. It was an attack driven by an agenda regarding a particular decision by the councillor. She is not innocent either. I think it is wrong for any elected official to politicize their opinions and then hide behind their sexual orientation. Her blunt, label-driven approach toward a very sensitive issue like immigration was inappropriate. It appears that, when faced with limited argument, it has become fashionable to point fingers and label others—as she did in her statement: “not hire legal immigrants is illegal, racist, xenophobic, and garbage.” First and foremost, she should tone down her aggressive position. She is supposed to be a representative of all people. That means everyone. Her statement isolates some and empowers others—and, worse, it shows a lack of national pride and understanding of the issues facing society. For her, it was easier to point and label. Wrong.I believe she should apologize and retract her statement. As for the alt-right activist group masquerading as journalists—their actions are understandable, but not justified. Their aggressiveness may make sense, but it is still unacceptable. So how do we get a right from two wrongs? We don’t. This is a sign of the times. Society is fractured. On one hand, we have elected officials in roles for which they may lack the necessary understanding of society as a whole. Instead, they make personal attempts to deal with issues that are beyond their capabilities. Victoria is not alone—this kind of confusion is evident across Canada. So what does that tell us, as taxpayers and as people who see the bigger picture? Perhaps it is time to reconsider municipal governments, as they are clearly not representing everyone’s best interests. As for activists masquerading as journalists—the same criticism applies. We cannot go around pretending to be something we are not. Activists in the media are a dime a dozen. At best, they are columnists—not journalists. In this case, the activist uses a video camera to justify whatever angle they choose to push. This is wrong because it confuses the public and feeds the highway of misinformation. The fact that they do not print or broadcast in the traditional sense, as per the definition above, speaks to their credibility. To add insult to injury, this reporter has had multiple run-ins with the law for similar occurrences. A good journalist asks the right questions and leaves the subject wanting to have their side heard. What took place in Whitby was unprofessional—from both the activist and the councillor. Two wrongs never make a right, just as two rights will never solve everything or anything —because perfection is an elusive concept that requires a good journalist to help interpret.

Dead and Gone… Are You Sure It’s Covered?

Dead and Gone… Are You Sure It’s Covered? By Gary Payne, MBA Founder of Funeral Cost Ontario There is a question many families ask, often quietly - sometimes sitting together after everything has already happened. “Would it have been easier if this had already been arranged?” They are usually talking about prepaid funeral plans. If I were gone, I would want my family to understand what those plans actually do - and what they don’t. From the outside, prepaid arrangements sound simple. You make decisions ahead of time. You pay in advance. When the time comes, everything is taken care of. In some ways, that is true. But like many things connected to funerals, the details matter more than people expect. A prepaid plan is not always a single thing. Some plans lock in specific services and prices. Others simply set aside funds that will be used later. Some are guaranteed. Others depend on how costs change over time. Those differences are not always obvious at the beginning. I have spoken with families who believed everything had been taken care of, only to discover later that certain items were not included. Not because anyone did something wrong. But because the plan did not cover everything they assumed it would. I’ve seen the look when they realize it wasn’t as clear as they thought. If I were gone, I would want my family to feel steady enough to ask one simple question: “What exactly is included?” Not just generally. Line by line. Does the plan include transportation? Paperwork? Staff services? Facilities? Is it tied to a specific funeral home? Are third-party costs included, or will those be separate later? Those questions matter more than the label “prepaid.” There is another part that can be confusing. Portability. Many prepaid plans are connected to a specific provider. If someone moves, or if the family prefers to use a different funeral home, transferring the plan is not always straightforward. Sometimes it can be done. Sometimes there are limitations. If I were gone, I would want my family to know where the plan applies - and what happens if circumstances change. I would also want them to understand something that is not always talked about directly. A prepaid plan can reduce decision-making. It does not remove it completely. Even when arrangements are set in advance, the family still makes choices when the time comes. Dates. Timing. Small details that were not part of the original plan. I have seen families feel relief knowing certain decisions were already made. I have also seen families feel unsure about whether to follow the plan exactly, or adjust it. If I could leave one quiet message, it would be this: Do not feel bound by a plan in a way that adds pressure. A prepaid arrangement is meant to guide, not to create stress. There is also the financial side. Many people choose prepaid plans to protect their family from rising costs. In some cases, guaranteed plans do lock in pricing. In others, the funds set aside may not keep pace with future costs. If I were gone, I would want my family to understand whether the plan is guaranteed, or simply a contribution toward future expenses. I would also want them to know where the funds are held. In Ontario, prepaid money is typically placed in trust or backed by insurance. That structure exists to protect families. Still, it is reasonable to ask how the plan is funded and how it will be accessed when needed. If I could leave one practical suggestion, it would be this: If a prepaid plan exists, review it. Not just once, and not just when it is purchased. Look at it again over time. Make sure it still reflects what is wanted. And make sure someone else knows it exists. Because a plan only helps if the people who need it can find it and understand it. If I were gone, I would want my family to feel supported by whatever had been arranged - not surprised by it. Preplanning can be a gift. But its value depends on how clearly it is understood. Next week, I will write about something many families hesitate to start: how to have a conversation about funeral wishes without it feeling uncomfortable or overwhelming.

Bans Versus Boundaries Finding a Solution to Teenage Social Media Usage

Bans Versus Boundaries Finding a Solution to Teenage Social Media Usage By Camryn Bland Youth Columnist Social media is something engraved into the lives of billions of people around the globe, practically unavoidable in daily life. These platforms have many benefits, as they are an accessible tool for connection, communication, entertainment, and self-expression. Despite these benefits, it also presents many challenges and consequences, especially for young users. Adolescents continue to engage with social media, despite the obvious consequences, and they will continue using it unless meaningful and strong actions are done to prevent it. For teens, social media is more than just an app, it’s part of a shared routine. It offers instant connection with friends and a sense of belonging; when an individual cuts off social media, it can feel isolating, as they are also cutting off the connection. At an age where these simple relationships feel critical, easy connection seems almost essential, and social media provides that. Additionally, it acts as an easy booster for self-esteem, as likes, comments, and shares can feel incredibly rewarding. Social media also provides easy, endless entertainment through short-form content, which can feel difficult to step away from. It is a quick source of dopamine, influencing individuals to rely on it as an instant mood-booster. These benefits often blind teens from the consequences of social media, which are otherwise hard to ignore. Heavy social media use is often connected to increased anxiety, depression, sleep disruption, and an overall increase in stress among teens. The online world is one of highlights and perfection, which creates an unrealistic standard which teens struggle to meet. They doubt their appearance, experiences, or talents simply because they don’t mirror the content behind the screen. This pressure and comparison negatively affects mental health for individuals of all ages. Additionally, the algorithms which control these platforms are designed not just for entertainment, but entrapment, as they hope to keep users scrolling for as long as possible. Without noticing, teens easily lose hours of their days online, ruining their mood, mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. These consequences are not new, and not unknown. For years, psychologists have been worried about the impact of social media, especially on adolescents. The new research isn’t about the issue, it’s about the solution. Recently, governments around the world have begun to respond, each with different ideas of how to save teens from the addictive media. Countries such as Australia and the United Kingdom are introducing social media bans for youth, only allowing individuals above a certain age to create accounts. While this is a step forward, it does not seem to be a total solution. Enforcing total bans or age limits is practically impossible, and many teens will find ways to bypass restrictions. Some countries, such as Brazil and France, are focusing on tighter regulations instead of a total ban. Governments and tech companies have implemented stricter rules regarding data privacy, parental controls, and company accountability. This recognizes the unavoidable role social media has on modern life, and understands that completely removing it is unrealistic. It hopes to decrease the unavoidable consequences while still allowing young people to benefit from online connection. However, even these regulations may be difficult to maintain, and will not solve the problem entirely. One of the biggest challenges with digital limitations, whether they be a total ban or a partial restriction, is that they are easy to get around. This is not the first time social media apps have tried to limit users or content, as they have previously included birthday verifications or screen time limits. They have existed for years, yet most teens find loopholes and continue scrolling. In fact, restricting something too heavily often makes it more appealing for a young audience. As the guidelines and controls get more intense, so will the attempts to overrule them. Ultimately, social media is not entirely good or entirely bad, even for adolescents. It can be used as a platform for connection and expression, or one of comparison and anxiety. While it has many real risks for young users, a complete ban altogether is unlikely to be a solution, as it sacrifices the many benefits, and may fail at reducing teen usage. A more effective approach may lie in balance. This includes implementing partial restrictions, holding companies accountable, and educating young users about online habits. As social media continues to evolve and further integrate itself into daily life, society must also adapt to ensure it remains a safe and positive space for the younger generations.

According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre

According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre By Bruno Scanga Financial Columnist In 2023 there were over 62,000 reported fraud victims. Seniors in Canada are getting bilked out of more than $500 million every year. It is estimated that as many as one in five seniors have lost money to fraudsters and most don’t report it. Even though seniors today may be mentally sharper than ever, they are still the con artists’ favorite target because they generally have more disposable cash and are often more trusting. Also, with our population living longer, there are more elders in their 80’s and 90’s who are vulnerable because they live alone, have a certain level of memory loss and can be confused or frightened by slick scammers. Scam artists try their tricks on all age groups, but some of their cons they focus on seniors. Here are a few common scams targeting seniors: Grandchild-in-trouble – Henry gets a call from what sounds like a grandson asking for some urgent financial help. Apparently traveling far from home, he needs bail money or emergency car repairs and asks for a wire transfer. In a nasty new twist, crooks knew some things about the grandchild and used a software tool to impersonate their voice. They were told their grandchild had been kidnapped and demanded payment of ransom. Cunningly, the crooks earlier called the grandchild on their cell phone, impersonating the phone carrier, and asked them to turn it off for a maintenance check. Protection – Wire payment or Bitcoin is the dead give-away. Never send money before confirming the grandchild’s whereabouts and call police. Phony bank official – Anne was bilked out of more than $15,000 when she thought she was helping her bank catch a thieving teller. She was instructed to withdraw a large sum of cash from her account and deliver it to the ‘bank official’ at a mall in her neighborhood. He was well dressed and assured her that the funds would be deposited back to her account. Anne was told not to tell her bank because they didn’t want to tip-off the teller, and he was able to get her to make two more withdrawals. Protection – Do not give any personal information to someone claiming they represent your bank. Call the police. Scareware – Shortly after David and Gail got their first computer; a message appeared on their screen telling them it was infected with a virus. They were invited to download a program for a small charge, giving the fraud artist their credit card information. Protection – First thing, have Internet security software from one of the big-name providers installed. Set it to update regularly and ignore the phony pop-up messages.

Breaking: Canada Facing a Growing Repair Skills Crisis

Breaking: Canada Facing a Growing Repair Skills Crisis By Dale Jodoin Columnist Across Canada, a quiet problem is starting to appear in neighbourhoods, small towns, and even large cities. It is not a dramatic crisis that makes the evening news. There are no flashing lights or emergency sirens. But the signs are there if you look closely. A loose fence that never gets fixed. A deck board curling up after winter. A broken gutter hanging for months. A small repair that once took an hour now waits for weeks. For many Canadians this may seem like a small issue. But behind these small problems sits a much larger concern. Canada is slowly losing a generation of people who know how to repair things. The country is entering what many trades workers quietly call the repair gap. For decades, the backbone of home repair in Canada came from the Baby Boomer generation and the group sometimes called Generation Jones. These Canadians grew up in a time when fixing things was normal. If something broke, you did not replace it. You repaired it. Many of these skills started in school. High schools once had strong shop programs. Students learned woodworking, metal work, basic electrical work, and small engine repair. They learned how to measure, how to cut properly, and how to work safely with tools. Those lessons did not end in the classroom. At home, young people often watched their parents repairing the family car, patching roofs, fixing lawn mowers, or rebuilding a broken fence. It became part of daily life. Many people took pride in knowing they could solve their own problems. For that generation, fixing something yourself was more than saving money. It was a point of pride. It showed independence and responsibility. Today many of those skilled homeowners are retiring. Some are selling homes they have cared for over forty or fifty years. Others are moving into smaller houses or retirement communities. Some are simply no longer able to climb ladders or handle heavy tools. As they leave those homes behind, a new generation is moving in. But many younger Canadians did not grow up with the same training. Generation Z, the group now entering adulthood, grew up in a different education system. Over the past few decades many schools removed shop classes. Wood shops closed. Auto repair programs disappeared. Welding programs were reduced or eliminated. The focus shifted heavily toward computers, testing, and university preparation. Technology became the future. Young Canadians today are extremely capable with digital tools. They can build websites, edit video, manage social media businesses, and troubleshoot computer problems quickly. But digital skill does not always translate into practical repair ability. Ask many young homeowners how to repair a loose railing or replace a faulty switch and the answer is often the same. They were never taught. This is not a criticism of the younger generation. It is the result of education choices made over many years. When governments removed practical training from schools, they removed a key path where young Canadians learned how to work with their hands. The effects are now being felt across the country. Canada is currently experiencing shortages in many skilled trades. Electricians, plumbers, welders, mechanics, appliance repair technicians, and construction workers are in high demand. In some communities it can take weeks to schedule basic repair work. Part of this shortage comes from retirement. Many experienced trades workers are leaving the workforce at the same time. Another part comes from a lack of new workers entering those trades. To fill the gap, many companies are turning to skilled immigrants who already have strong repair and construction experience. These workers arrive from countries where trades training remains a major part of education. They bring valuable knowledge and strong work habits. Their work helps keep homes maintained and infrastructure running. In many cases they are filling jobs that currently do not have enough Canadian workers. However, their presence also raises an important question. Why did Canada stop preparing its own young people for these roles? Many experts believe the answer lies in the slow disappearance of trade education in schools. Over time shop programs were considered outdated or unnecessary. Education systems focused more heavily on academic pathways and university preparation. The result was a generation highly trained in digital technology but less experienced in hands on repair. There is another factor making repairs more difficult today. Modern products are often designed in ways that prevent easy repair. Phones contain sealed batteries. Appliances rely on locked software systems. Even farm tractors sometimes require special computer tools before repairs can be made. This has led to a growing public movement known as the right to repair. Supporters believe that if consumers buy a product, they should have the ability to repair it themselves or choose an independent repair shop. They argue companies should provide access to parts, manuals, and software tools needed for repairs. Farmers, mechanics, and small businesses across North America have strongly supported the right to repair legislation. They argue it restores independence and reduces waste. Canada has begun discussing these laws, but many advocates believe stronger action is needed. Beyond legislation, there is growing discussion about rebuilding trade education. Many educators and industry leaders now support bringing back practical training in schools. Modern shop programs could teach woodworking, electrical basics, mechanical repair, and construction skills alongside digital technology. This approach would not replace academic education. Instead it would balance it. Not every student needs to become a trades worker. But every student should understand basic repair skills that help them maintain their homes, vehicles, and equipment. Those skills also support local economies. When repairs happen locally, money stays in local communities. Hardware stores benefit. Small repair businesses grow. Local trades workers find steady work. Rebuilding these skills could strengthen both the economy and community independence. The discussion now moves beyond education alone. Citizens across Canada can raise this issue with city officials, provincial representatives, and federal leaders. They can ask for stronger support for trade schools, apprenticeship programs, and right to repair laws. Public policy often begins with public conversation. Canada was built by people who understood how to build and repair the world around them. Those practical skills helped create strong homes, reliable infrastructure, and resilient communities. Many Canadians believe those skills should remain part of the country’s future. The challenge now is making sure the next generation has the opportunity to learn them. Because once the last of the old fixers finally put down their tools, someone else will need to pick them up.

Mr. X Files: Walkable Communities and Unshakeable Freedoms

Mr. X Files: Walkable Communities and Unshakeable Freedoms There has been significant debate recently regarding "15-minute cities." Depending on the perspective, the phrase represents either sensible urban planning or something more concerning. In truth, the concept is neither new nor controversial when viewed through the lens of traditional urban design. The core idea is simple: residents should be able to access everyday services—groceries, parks, schools, and shops—within a short walk or bike ride from home. This planning reduces traffic, strengthens local businesses, and improves quality of life. Many historic Ontario towns were built this way long before the term was coined, with homes and services existing in close proximity. The current controversy stems less from urban planning and more from a decline in public trust. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of extraordinary federal powers, such as freezing bank accounts, raised serious concerns about the extent of government authority. These concerns regarding civil liberties and the foundational trust between citizens and government must not be dismissed. It is important to clarify that municipal planning policies for walkable neighbourhoods are not intended to restrict movement or control daily lives. Local governments manage infrastructure and services; they do not control citizen mobility or possess the authority to interfere with personal finances. To restore confidence, the path forward must combine good planning with strong protections for civil liberties. Governments must reinforce the principles of freedom of movement and financial security. This means establishing clear legal safeguards ensuring that no government can freeze a citizen's bank account without a court order tied to a criminal conviction or formal legal proceeding. When civil liberties are legally protected, debates about urban planning can focus on their true purpose: building convenient, healthy, and vibrant communities. Walkable neighbourhoods are about expanding choice, not limiting it. Residents should be able to walk to a park or local shop while remaining free to travel and live without government interference. Good communities are built on both thoughtful planning and personal freedom; one should never come at the expense of the other. By strengthening the protections Canadians expect for their financial and civil liberties, discussions about neighbourhood design will become far less divisive. Our goal should be simple: communities that are easy to live in and a country where freedoms remain firmly protected.

GIBERSON SHOULD STICK TO THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY PRIMARILY ‘THE CIRCUS’

GIBERSON SHOULD STICK TO THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY PRIMARILY ‘THE CIRCUS’ By Joe Ingino BA. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800 ,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States Who is that Gumby of Giberson... How do people get elected to office with little or no real life experience. For those that read my column on a regular basis will know how critical I am of politicians. Oshawa was a beautiful place. A peaceful and affordable place to call home. I been your Editor for the past 30 plus. I have seen administration come and go. Unfortunately, quality of life has been deterioration at an alarming rate. The downtown our pride and joy had been handed over for the past 10 years to a city councillor with little or no life experience at best a third rate musician. At the region for the same downtown ward. We have an ex-educator/actor... One would think we would vote in a local business person. Someone with a title and or proven track record. Well, Derek Giberson had almost 10 years to do something and has done nothing. Worst, he is indirectly/directly responsible for the open drug use and drug trade in our city core. Just this past week as to pretend he is doing something. Giberson posted on line: Derek Giberson is with backdoor mission in Oshawa. (Same Mission that is responsible for allowing a the dispensing and consumption of narcotics from it’s property.) Another Housing Townhall, another night with over 100 people in Oshawa showing up because they believe things can be better. The undeniable truth is that the status quo is failing too many people: workers, seniors, students... so many who have been caught in this housing affordability crisis. (THIS GUY IS INSANE... ‘THE STATUS QUO’. Did he forget that he is the one that was elected to do something about it. No, instead he attempts to pass the responsibility of others... This is the same guy that does not return his city newspaper messages and or many of his constituents. But 2026 is an election year and he is once again attempting to sell pipe dreams...) And the brilliant Dr. Carolyn Whitzman showed us with evidence and clarity the policies failures and government inaction at all levels that got us here. Yes, the brilliant.... Carolyn Whitzman is a Canadian urban planner, community activist and author. Another words... A pipe dream maker. He continues in his post - But we also got to imagine what different could look like. Giberson and his pipe dreams have to go. We need real leaders that will improve the quality of life for all and keep our taxes at ‘0’. People commented on his post... Don Rockbrune Did you have a representative from the provincial government there to explain what they are doing to fix the system? It largely is a provincial issue that directly affects municipalities…. THE ANSWER IS NO. OUR LOCAL MPP AND MP NO WHERE TO BE FOUND. Michelle stated... So Derek barely answers emails or calls from his constituents, yet suddenly, just a month and a half before his municipal campaign starts, he’s holding a town hall? Give me a break. Giberson has been known to attack using taxpayers time and money local businesses on bogus allegations. He has so many failures under his belt that local merchants throw him out of their businesses. This is the same GUMBY that allowed the waste of 10 million dollars on a downtown park. HE HAS TO GO. VOTERS DON’T MAKE THE SAME MISTAKE.

Statins, Side Effects, and the Silence About Choice

Statins, Side Effects, and the Silence About Choice Common Sense Health – Diana Gifford-Jones There’s a common organizational saying: structure drives behaviour. In institutional theory, it’s called path dependence. Once a structure or pattern is established, it becomes self-reinforcing. This is a problem in medicine. Researchers and specialists become deeply immersed in their own areas of expertise. They network within tight knowledge clusters. They protect their territory. And when they train recruits, they filter out possible solutions to problems before deliberation even begins. This is the story – or an important part of a complex story – of the commitment by so many experts to statins in the treatment of heart disease. A large meta-analysis recently published in The Lancet and reported in the British Medical Journal concludes that most of the side effects listed in statin leaflets – memory loss, depression, fatigue, sleep disturbance, erectile dysfunction – occur no more often in those taking the drug than in those taking a placebo. Regulators are now considering changes to product labels. Experts speak of “powerful reassurance.” We are told confusion has gone on long enough. But here’s the question: reassurance for whom? I am not lambasting the research. Randomized trials involving more than 120,000 participants deserve respect. If the data show that many feared side effects are less common than thought, then provide consumers with that information. What I object to is the triumphal tone and the relentless march toward medicating ever larger swaths of the population without an equally forceful message about personal responsibility and informed choice – choice that includes information on treatment options that go beyond pharmaceutical drugs. Seven to eight million adults in the UK already take statins. If guidelines are followed to the letter, that number could climb to 15 million. And what is the public message? Not: “Let’s first talk about your waistline, your diet, your blood pressure, your exercise habits, your smoking.” Not: “Let’s see what happens if you walk briskly for 30 minutes a day.” Not: “There are safe, effective, natural alternatives to the drugs.” Instead, it is: “Don’t worry. The pills are safer than you think.” That is not prevention. It’s pharmacological management. Doctors complain that “negative publicity” has led patients to refuse statins or stop taking them. They suggest that switching between different statins reinforces “misinformation.” But perhaps patients are not irrational. Perhaps they are wary. And in today’s pharmaceutical marketplace, where billions are at stake, wariness is not a character flaw. When a study funded by a major heart foundation reassures us that side effects are minimal and uptake should increase, skepticism is healthy. Not cynical. Healthy. Yes, cardiovascular disease is a leading killer. Yes, lowering LDL cholesterol reduces risk. But medicine has drifted from treating disease to treating risk scores. The new threshold recommends considering statins for people with less than a 10% ten-year risk of cardiovascular disease. Think about that. We are medicating people who are, statistically speaking, unlikely to have an event in the first place. And what do we tell them about the other levers they can pull? Lifestyle changes can reduce cardiovascular risk by 30%, 40%, sometimes more. Weight loss lowers blood pressure and improves blood sugar. Exercise raises HDL cholesterol and reduces inflammation. A Mediterranean-style diet lowers cardiovascular events. But lifestyle medicine takes time. It requires conversation, follow-up, and motivation. A prescription takes 30 seconds. The pharmaceutical industry thrives on expanding definitions of risk and broadening treatment thresholds. That is the business model. But physicians are not supposed to be extensions of that model. They are supposed to be educators and advocates. When the dominant message is “don’t worry, just take the pill,” they fail in that role.

Today’s approach to Debt?

By Bruno Scanga Financial Columnist Today the traditional approach to debt means that each month millions of Canadians jump through financial hoops to meet their final obligations, paying their bills, cover borrowing costs and try to put something away into savings, investments, and retirement. Most Canadians manage their finances by doing two things: 1. Deposit their income and other short-term assets into chequing and saving accounts 2. Borrowing when they need to, through mortgages, lines of credits, personal loans, and credit cards. Sounds simple enough, Unfortunately, they usually receive low or no interest on money they deposit, while they pay high interest on money they borrow. Wouldn’t it make more sense if the deposit and borrowing were combined? Why not have every dollar you earn pay down your debts until you need to spend that money? All in One account. This this the most efficient ways to manage debt and cash flow. This account is where you can have your saving directed and applied to your debt. In using this account your savings and income automatically reduce your debt to save you interest. You can have a combination of borrowing with a fixed rate and another portion of your debt in an open line of credit. The fixed rate accounts can help provide payment certainty in arising environment. This approach can reduce interest costs and lower the risk of overspending in the account. You can create a tailored debt management system based on your needs: · Income · Lifestyle · Cashflow Surplus · (undesignated money left over at the end of the month) · Interest rate risk tolerance · Understanding a good debt versus overwhelming debt Fixed or variable mortgages rates – which on is right for me? If you are looking for a traditional mortgage, you may not completely understand between fixed rates and variable rate mortgages. Each has is own benefits and your choice will depend on your situation and your personal preference. Your best options are to shop the marketplace and ask your advisors questions to ensure the plan you are getting meet all your need. Chequing vs savings Instead of juggling between a chequing and a saving account, why not have an option where you can enjoy the best of both? Most banks want you to operate with multiple banks. It important to know that you are not maximizing your money by using separate chequing and saving accounts. There are solutions that can help you benefit from higher intertest rates of a saving account along with the liquidity of a chequing account. Always ask questions, never accept the plans until you are 100% satisfied this will do what you want it to do for you. Remember Comprehensive, Diversified Strategic Planning.

When Employers See Your Value, Job Market Disconnects Disappear

When Employers See Your Value, Job Market Disconnects Disappear By Nick Kossovan When it comes to my The Art of Finding Work columns, none of what I write is theoretical for me. It took me about 20 years into my career to grasp the importance employers place on value-add. Before this realization, I intellectualized my experience, which was of no value to an employer. I believe two main factors significantly contribute to why job seekers struggle in a job market that, although highly competitive, is still hiring, though not as easily or quickly as they feel entitled to. 1. Having grown up overprotected and overindulged, with parents and teachers constantly telling them, "everyone wins," many job seekers never had to fight for anything and therefore aren't mentally prepared to compete for a job. 2. Intellectualizing their experience. Many job seekers hold the naive belief that their “experience” and “credentials” should be enough to get them hired; in their minds, they don't have to prove how they contributed to their former employers' profitability. Ultimately, much of the disconnect between job seekers and employers stems from job seekers failing to articulate how they'll contribute to an employer's bottom line—not framing their value. When job searching, your worth needs permission. You don’t decide your worth; employers do, which they determine based on how they perceive what your value or potential value to their business is. Your worth to an employer isn’t a given, nor is it a matter of self-opinion. Proving your worth is your responsibility. An employer assessing a candidate’s worth is no different from making a large purchase or investment. If an employer sees value, which, as I mentioned and is worth repeating, is the jobseeker’s responsibility to demonstrate, in hiring a candidate (an ongoing expense), such as they’ll generate revenue, save money, or remove risks, they’re more likely to hire that candidate, provided they feel the candidate will mesh with their company culture, the team they’ll be working with, and will be manageable. Understandably, employers look to hire low-risk candidates, defined by: · Having a track record of delivering measurable outcomes. · Coming across as someone who won’t be a disruptor (you’ll make things easier, not harder). Employers aren’t interested in your experience per se; they’re interested in the value you added to your previous employer’s profitability, which you ideally will add to their business. Approaching your job search with “Here’s what I do” triggers the question, “So what?” · "I'm fluent in Tagalog." · "I'm proficient in Excel." · "I managed a help desk." · "I'm creative." · "Results-driven leader with a proven track record." Due to their intangibility, employers no longer take self-promotion statements, which are usually grandiose, or opinions about oneself, seriously. I’ve lost count of how many candidates talk a good game about themselves, but upon further due diligence (an assessment test, completing an assignment, asking ‘Tell me a time when’ questions), it became clear that talking a good game was their primary skill. Recruiters and hiring managers scan resumes and LinkedIn profiles for numbers and context, not soft skills or empty phrases. Results outweigh opinions. Employers are only interested in hiring candidates who can deliver results. When was the last time you made a purchase—remember, hiring is equivalent to making a purchase—without considering the expected result(s)? · In 2025, secured $1.5M in new business contracts by targeting businesses that serve Toronto’s Filipino community. · Created a custom automated Excel template that cuts the time to generate weekly sales analysis reports by 80%. · Implemented Zendesk AI Agents, reducing IT support’s average daily call volume from 850 to 680, a 20% decrease. · Launched Wayne Enterprise’s new anti-frizz shampoo by producing and posting 20 engaging 30-second videos on its social media channels, resulting in a 28% increase in conversion rate over the previous launch, a colour-enhancing shampoo. · Managed a $10M annual capital expenditure budget spanning 4 divisions. Achieved 15% savings in 2025 through vendor renegotiations. Shifting from “What do I want to say about myself?” to “What evidence can I provide that I’m the solution to this employer’s problems?” will create “connects” between you and employers rather than disconnects. Reflect on how your skills have led to measurable outcomes. The candidates who are getting hired aren’t the ones who are shouting the loudest or checking off all the proverbial boxes. The candidates employers are having conversations with are those they believe can effectively solve the problems the role is meant to address. For an employer to view you as a solution worth paying for, they need to see evidence that you have solved problems for your previous employers. Position yourself around the employer’s problems and needs—What employer wouldn’t want to increase their profitability?—not your resume. Every day, job seekers tell me or post on LinkedIn, complaining about how employers hire, as if that’s a smart job-search strategy (it isn’t), that they have years of experience and expertise, yet their applications go unnoticed. No acknowledgments. No conversations. It’s their ego talking. Job seekers expecting employers to merely value their “experience” and “expertise” without providing evidence of how they impacted their previous employer’s bottom line are the ones creating much of the disconnect between job seekers and employers, and then ironically complain about “the disconnect.”

Freedom On Trial

Freedom On Trial By Dale Jodoin Columnist There is a new kind of tension in Canada right now. Not the loud kind that blows up in a comment section. The quiet kind that sits in your gut when you read the next federal bill and think, wait, can they really do that? People are worn down. Prices are up. Trust is thin. When trust is thin, government power feels heavier. You hear it in plain talk from people who never cared about politics. They are saying, I keep my head down now. I do not post that stuff anymore. I do not want to be the one they make an example of. That last line is the warning. Behaviour is changing. The bill lighting up phones and church meetings is Bill C 9, the Combating Hate Act, introduced in September 2025. Ottawa says it targets hate, intimidation, and harassment, and protects access to places like churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, and community centres. Most Canadians agree nobody should be threatened while walking into a house of worship. The fight is about what else gets pulled in, and what becomes criminal when definitions get stretched. Bill C 9 proposes changes to hate propaganda and hate crime rules in the Criminal Code. The part that has faith communities on edge is tied to removing a long standing defence that protects good faith discussion of religious subjects. In simple terms, that defence has been a legal shield for religious teaching and debate, even when a topic is sensitive, even when the message is unpopular. That matters because religion is not only comfort. A lot of it is moral claims. Right and wrong. Sin and forgiveness. Marriage. Family. Human nature. Those topics will always offend someone. In a free country, offence is not supposed to equal crime. When the legal line gets blurry, people stop talking. Not because they plan harm. Because they do not trust how the line will be drawn later, who can file a complaint, or what happens when a sermon clip goes online. And in 2026 everything goes online. A phone in the back pew. A short clip. A caption added by someone else. A few angry comments. Then the pile on. Context disappears. Tone disappears. Even a quote can be treated like a personal attack. Some people say, if you are not doing anything wrong, you have nothing to fear. That is not how modern life works. Words are messy. Sarcasm gets read as threat. A hard opinion gets labelled harmful. A quote gets treated like intent. Here is the fear Canadians are talking about. A country can slide into punishing speech, not only violence. The fear is not only a fine. It is a police file. A court date. A lawyer bill. A criminal label. A job that suddenly goes cold when your name gets searched. And yes, people talk about jail. It sounds extreme until you look at other countries that already charge people over online speech. Canadians keep bringing up England because it shows how “we are targeting harm” can become “we are prosecuting messages.” In the UK, some offences cover online messages judged grossly offensive, and convictions can bring penalties, including jail time. That is why Canadians ask, are we heading the same way? Bill C 9 also lands in a country where online harms proposals keep returning. Ottawa and regulators have been pushing for stronger rules that pressure platforms to reduce exposure to certain content. The goals sound fine. Protect kids. Stop threats. But the mechanics matter more than the slogans. If platforms face legal duties and penalties, they protect themselves first. The safest move is to delete fast and wide. More removals. More automated filters. Less tolerance for blunt debate. Less patience for context. That is how lawful speech gets squeezed without a judge. Private companies become the gatekeepers because they do not want trouble. Even if you never get charged, you can still get shut down. Your post disappears. Your reach drops. You get a warning that explains nothing. Then you stop posting, because it is not worth the headache. Now add the specific worry for churches. If legal protections around good faith religious discussion are narrowed, it is not hard to picture more complaints aimed at sermons, Bible verses, flyers, youth talks, even a pastor answering a question after service. The fear is not that pastors want to harm anyone. The fear is that a broad law plus a complaint driven culture equals trouble. A lot of Canadians already watch their words at work. Now they fear they will have to watch their words at church too. Once a church starts preaching like it is scared, something has changed. Ottawa will say these bills target hate, not honest debate. But laws do not live in press conferences. They live in definitions and enforcement. They live in how police, prosecutors, regulators, and platforms interpret them over time. They live in what gets labelled hate, and who gets to decide. Here is a basic test any reader can use. Do these laws focus tightly on direct threats and real violence, with clear language that protects lawful speech? Or do they drift into punishing ideas, moral claims, and unpopular opinions? Once the state starts managing ideas, it rarely stops at the first target. Language broadens. Enforcement gets uneven. The safest move for ordinary people becomes silence. If Ottawa wants trust, the answer is not vague speech law. The answer is tight language, clear limits, and strong protection for lawful expression, including religious expression, even when it offends someone. If you care about free speech, do not sleepwalk through this. Read what Bill C 9 changes. Watch whether Parliament removes the good faith religious defence. Ask your MP one direct question. Can Canadians speak honestly about religion, morality, and politics without fearing a police file, or worse? Because once fear becomes normal, freedom shrinks quietly, and you notice it only after your voice is already gone.