THE TIPPING POINT

By Dale Jodoin In today's world, dining out has become more of a luxury than a routine for many. With rising food prices, increasing rent, and higher costs for heat and hydro, people are finding it harder to justify spending extra money on eating out. As a result, dining out has become a treat, often done on a tight budget. Many now look for deals, such as two-for-one offers or pizza special, anything to save a dollar. However, the tradition of tipping waiters and waitresses is facing its own challenges in this economic climate. In places like Canada and the United States, it's not uncommon for restaurants to add a 10%, 20%, or even 30% gratuity automatically to the bill. This practice puts additional pressure on customers who are already stretching their budgets thin. With predictions that half of the restaurants might go bankrupt in the next six months, the stakes are high. Restaurants are fighting for every dime to survive, and customers are calculating the cost of their meals down to the last penny using their phones or calculators. The reality is that both customers and restaurant staff are feeling the pinch. Waiters and waitresses rely on tips to make a living, but demanding a tip can embarrass customers and potentially deter them from returning. This is a delicate balance, as customers believe that by dining out, they are supporting local businesses. Yet, the expectation of tipping, once a given, is now seen by some as a relic of the past. It's important for everyone to remember that neither wait staff nor customers are to blame for the tough times. Waiters and waitresses are not therapists; they're there to provide a service with a smile. Similarly, customers should not take out their frustrations on the staff. Everyone is facing challenges, whether it's high taxes or other financial pressures. The current situation requires understanding and empathy from all sides. Restaurants need patrons to stay afloat, and employees need jobs to support themselves. This mutual dependence highlights a common struggle. Recognizing this shared difficulty could foster a more understanding and supportive environment for both customers and service staff. In conclusion, the tradition of tipping is at a crossroads, influenced by economic pressures and changing social norms. While tipping may be becoming less common, the need for mutual respect and understanding has never been greater. Both customers and service staff are navigating tough times, and a little kindness and consideration can go a long way. As we move forward, it's crucial for everyone to recognize the challenges each other faces and to support local businesses and their employees as much as possible. After all, we're all in this together, trying to make the best of the situation and hoping for better days ahead.

IT IS NOT BLACK AND WHITE

By Lisa Robinson - Pickering City Councillor We are amydst BLACK HISTORY MONTH. Celebrations plus more celbrations is all you hear. Politician after politician attempting to get Afro-Canadian vote, hypocritically championing a people’s contribution throughtout history. I remember in school being taught history. Not black history, hispanic, euro, arabic, south east rim, oriental and lets not forget native, white and or any other mix of races. Back then it was history. Yes, mistake were made. Yes mistakes at both ends of the color spectrum can be noted. The key here is why in this modern age we are so driven by color of skin instead of the human element. I say the human element as we are all people. In the race to equality is not the celebration of one race over another in itself racist. And for those not of that race hypocritical? Now before anyone goes getting offended. Take off the offended cap and put on the thinking cap. Someone not to long ago of status in the community and of color dare call me ‘white priviledge’. Really? If that was not a racist statement I do not know what is. This same person is to champion equality across the board. But it seems that due to limited intellect. They confuse the meaning of equality with the attempt to denounce in the name of punishing everyone for their psychological insecurity stemming from race. This scares me. I am not prejudice nor discriminatory. I have friends off all nationalities and as an elected official. I treat everyone equal and without bias. Now, back to being called ‘priviledged’. How does the color of my skin make me priviledged? I have had to work hard for everything I own. I endure economic hardships just like the many reading this... like the many of all colors. So much so that my own employer... city elect biasly and with extreme prejudice cut my pay for 90 days for exercising my freedom of speech. Over a comment I made in regard to feeling like my council was treating me like a modern day slave. Now, I feel I was persecuted and punished and that my rights and freedoms were violated to the point where I felt discriminated. Then, how is it that this person dares tell me I am priviledged? The problem we face is that in society there is so much hate. So much confusion and so many people in positions that they are not fit to hold. For anyone to become upset or insulted over ‘MODERN DAY SLAVERY’. The words. Is pure insanity on their part. A show of their limited intellect and their psychological scaring due to misunderstanding and lack of self esteem. Now, let’s leave that for another column. The point here is that we are all of all colors “MODERN DAY SLAVES”. We are led to believe that we have choices. That we have freedom and that we have rights. In reality we are all slaves of our demise. Try not going to work for a month. See how that affects your rights and freedoms. Now back to slavery and color. First and foremost. Slavery is not a white and black issue. Today, in today modern world slavery in the traditional sense is still practice. Places like Saudi Arabia. Some of the South Pacific countries and in Africa itself. So then why are we celebrating ‘black history month’ in Canada. We are so hung up on north American history and the historical trafficking of primarily African decent people that we have lost sense of time and period. Back in those days society was very different. Today, we have come a long way. Even thought slavery is practices across the planet. We do not have other nations race history in Canada. Like the many that were brought from Latin America, the Orient. Are we by celebrating in segregation not only reminding everyone of a very dark part in North American history. Also, are we not in the name of equality showcasing prejudice? If this is so. Then why is it that we continue to do it? Could it a political attempt to fool people? I say this because if we acknowledge our differences between all the races. Is that not prejudice in itself. Why should the government have special programs for some races, almost excluding others as deeming this programs exclusive to one race. Special black business programs, special black business loans... Now, to add more interest to this intellectual conondrum. When we speak of black and white. There are many shades of white. There are many shades of brown, yellow, red, black and so on. As well, there is prejudice within the color spectrum. Then the question remains. How are we to truly express our equality when it come to color differences. Is it beneficial for equality to be demanded by honoring indifferences? What if it was ‘White history month’. Would that not be seen as prejudice? The argument is. Well the rest of the year is ‘white history month’. Well no. Because history in general never had color. Just episodes of history make references to the many conflicts and joint efforts of all color. Much like during the world wars. Soldier of all races and color fought for our freedom. They sacrificed without thought or division based on color. It scares me that in this modern society. We have people that would dare support such division by celebrating differences of color. I support Afro-Canadian contributions to this great nation. I do not support the ‘BLACK HISTORY MONTH’ statement any more than ‘WHITE PRIVILEDGE’. As both statement lack understanding and the intellect of the meaning of it’s intent. God, made us in his image. An image that is not superficial but one derived from one heart one love. We can’t ever be equal as long as we allow color to divide us. "Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head-On And Rise Above It"

010100100010 The Future of Municipal Government

By Joe Ingino Editor/Publisher Social change is on the horizon. By now we all have heard of Artificial Intelligence. Intelligence... a word that is wrongfully used to describe the next generation of internet browsing and interfacing. It is deemed intelligent as the data processing surpassed any human capability. A capability that appears to understand and developed based on compilation of information in to rational thought. Visionaries like George Orwell read the writing on the evolutionary wall and gave us a glimpse at the future in his book 1984, back in 1949. Orwell did not get the year right. But he sure was bang on the money when it came to the social/governmental and changes to the human element when he introduced us to ‘BIG BROTHER.’ Big Brother is a character and symbol in George Orwell's dystopian 1949 novel Nineteen Eighty-Four. He is ostensibly the leader of Oceania, a totalitarian state wherein the ruling party, Ingsoc, wields total power "for its own sake" over the inhabitants. In the society that Orwell describes, every citizen is under constant surveillance by the authorities, mainly by telescreens (with the exception of the Proles). According to the introduction of AI. Big Brother is here and quickly developing. Orwell was not alone in his futuristic visions. Many today are deeming this time in history as the ‘Age of Aquarius’. Wikipedia: suggesting 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. This compounded with the never ending social uprise and unrest. Or the brewing racial battles and civic defiance. The world is in need of new law and order. With the constant expose of political corruption. Government across the board in-fighting. Wars, conflict and never ending discrepancies based on religion, culture, economics. The talk about globalism. The failure of the church and state. If we are not in the ‘Age of Aquarius’. We are surely, heading down a very dangerous slide toward extinction. Allow me to explain. As it is. For example. Municipal government operates as such: Citizens comes up with an issue to be considered. Information is sent to staff. Staff spend time reviewing, assessing and making recommendation to council. Council then discusses it, debates it and finally vote. Many times the vote count leads to poor or bad decisions. Decisions not based on logic or reason but in personal opinion, bias, prejudice and lack of intellectual integrity. Vis- a vie - Taxes keep going up to pay off for bad decisions. With this so called ‘Artificial Intelligence’. Computers operate on a simple logic. Yes or No. 101. The outcome is based on raw data collected from infinite sources. No real thinking is use. Much like staff. Gather info and assess it based on mathematical statistics. Predicting the best out come from the source of information available. The big difference the computer can do it in a fraction of a second and staff take weeks if not months. Then from an economic perspective. Get rid of staff and replace it with a computer filled with the particular departmental expertise. Easy. NO? We can get more accurate results and much quicker responses, at almost no cost. That info that is given to council. Then council would have to vote on it using the usual bias, prejudices and understanding on a particular. Why not get rid of council. After all, most elected do not have the expertise to make the decision they are faced to make. Get a computer that utilizes data to statistically make a decision based on logic, reason and economic principles. Imaging the millions we would save. Now let’s apply the same to the Regional, Provincial and Federal government. We hear about globalism. About one world government. The introduction of AI to society. This type of thinking maybe is not to far off. Think about it. The computer would dispense law according to country, region. The computer would utilize distribution of wealth and access to industry and trade based on in-put. In-put that would only have rational and logical resolve to any issue before it. No bias, no prejudice, no opinion. NO CORRUPTION. Much like Orwell’s world. Big Brother would dispense what is best for society without emotion, greed and or external influences. So what are you saying Joe? What I am saying is welcome to the Age of Aquarius. Under such model. We all be considered equal. Our social rank would be determined by our intellectual accomplishment through academia. Religion would become abselete as would poverty, homelessness and suffering. Big Brother would assure every human being the basic human right to live free of worry. The need for human survival would be replaced with the need to excel academically. Civilization would evolve to one of high tech efficiency as never seen before. Orwell was right back then. Do you think I may be onto something?

The Holocaust; 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 increasing instability in the world, especially the surging military activity, we need to reflect for a moment on the human tragedy of cataclysmic proportion that occurred during World War II (WW2) and hope that this never happen again. It is hard to believe that in 2024 we will mark the 79th Anniversary of the end of WW2; a tragedy that claimed many victims and was the most devastating event of the last century. That war was the deadliest military conflict in human history. It is estimated that a total of 70 to 85 million people perished, which represented about 3% of the world population in 1940. The WW2 conflagration saw very high civilian casualties. Civilian deaths totaled 50 to 55 million. Close to 25 million of these were victims of genocide and ethnic cleansing. Around 17 million perished as victims of the Nazi Germany regime and its collaborators. The ferocity of killings by Nazis and their collaborators was rationalized as ethnic cleansing. These were racially motivated crimes, involving 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; all combining to increase the number of innocent victims of war. In January 1942, top Nazi leaders convened a meeting in the outer lakeside Berlin suburb of Wannsee. There, they outlined 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 the comprehension of our modern, comfortable lives. The Holocaust is the term generally used to describe the genocide of approximately six million European Jews during WW2. 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. Seventy-nine 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 including items of clothing like shoes, and 700 tonnes of human hair. The broken human beings they liberated were among the handful of survivors of the 1.3 million people who had passed through the gates of Auschwitz. From my city of birth, Satu Mare in Transylvania, there were 4 train loads of Jewish people deported directly to Auschwitz between May and June 1944. Most of them perished. 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. 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. “We study history not to be clever in another time, but to be wise always.” Marcus Tullius Cicero 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 and appreciate 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 that we need to preserve. And yet support for democracy is diminishing. We are defined most clearly 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. How, 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. Otherwise 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, in 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 a distant stranger. 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. “There may be times when we are powerless to prevent injustice, but there must never be a time when we fail to protest.” Elie Wiesel Are we ready?

I CANT SURVIVE ON MY PENSION

I CAN’T SURVIVE

ON MY PENSION By Rosaldo Russo Allow me to begin this column by thanking the Oshawa/Central newspaper for allowing me the opportunity and access to the press. Not to many if any allow an average person like me to tell the world what I see and think. In my opinion. The Editor/Publisher is a real upstanding type of guy. He shoots from the hip and hold traditional core values. My name is Rosaldo Russo. I came to this great country to make a better life for myself and my family. I thank Canada for everything it has allowed me to do and earn. I worked construction all my life. I know the value of hard work and honesty. I remember as a boy my father always telling me to work hard and buy land. So I did. I remember days when I did not have enough to eat. I go to work... but I did not wait for hand outs. I rounded up my pride my skill and my determination to succeed and went to work. In those days the only benefits we received was the fact we were employed. Before retiring I was the owner and operator of local material supply company that allowed me to retired without worry. Now that I have time to enjoy life. I look around me and have some concern for future generations. I see that the world is finished. Excuse me. Is this still Canada? I get a pension like most of you. I paid my taxes and still pay my taxes. I pay capital gain tax, income tax, retail tax and just about every tax that our government decides I should pay. After exhausting my cheque book. I sit here and think. How are other people doing it. How are people my age surviving. With taxes continue to go up. I would not be able to pay my taxes based on my pension. I am disgusted at the Prime Minister. At our Provincial elect. Without doubt with our Mayor Dan Carter. Here is guy that never held a position of responsibility as he has now. He makes mistakes we pay with tax increases. Yet, he goes around spewing how great his administration is doing with all the contruction statistics. Statistics that only prove his incompetency. Our beloved incompetent leaders is allowing for the raping of our prime farm land by greedy developers that see an opportunity to make billions. They dont care about erecting two by four lego type homes and charging our kids million dollars. It is disgusting. Then guys like me that worked our asses off all our lives. Are mailed an envelop demanding we pay our taxes or else. What kind of freedom is this. Pay or else. After all the years of hard work to contribute to this country. My fellow countrymen threaten me to pay or else. Men like Carter a former homeless, drug addict illiterate. Come on people. It is time to rise and send a message. No more. Who votes these idiots in office? I sure did not. You would think that fellow countrymen would be of like interest. Now don’t get me wrong. I have limited education. But I know right from wrong. I know the value of a hard days work. I know the value of every dollar earned. I came to this country not with the expectations to be awarded, given and or treated special. I came to work hard. Contribute and give back. Even in times of hardship. I refused hand outs and any form of charity. Now in my last chapter of life. I feel for the youth of tomorrow. I feel for seniors like me that are forced out of their homes, because they can’t pay their taxes. Am I preaching to a deaf society. To a numb heart? I pray to god not.

Before Accepting a Job Offer, Know the Expectations

By Nick Kossovan After not being "a fit," employees are most often terminated for not meeting the expectations of their position. (READ: expected outcomes) When offered a job, the cliche advice is to evaluate: · Salary · Benefits · Working hours · Commuting distance · Opportunities for career advancement These focus on you… wrong approach! Your top priority should be knowing and evaluating the employer's expectations against your skills, aptitude, and energy level. In other words, before focusing on whether the employer can meet your needs and wants, focus on whether you can meet the employer's needs. Think of it as John F. Kennedy's maxim when he said during his inaugural address on January 20, 1961, "Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country." Compensation, benefits, and career advancement are meaningless if you fail to meet expectations. Be honest about your capabilities, experience, professionalism, and capacity to handle stress from being held accountable. (READ: Don't lie to yourself.) Taking on a job that exceeds your capabilities is a recipe for "brief employment." The best way to set yourself up for success at your new job and have fewer surprises is to know what'll be expected of you. By now, you're probably aware of Brittany Pietsch, the 27-year-old Cloudflare account executive who infamously filmed herself being let go after three and a half months due to not meeting expectations. (I'm taking Cloudfare's HR words at face value.) It's painful to watch as she tries to direct the conversation, attempting to orchestrate a "GOTCHA!" moment so she can gain Internet fame, clicks, and likes. If you haven't seen Brittany's video, you can view it here: https://bit.ly/3HuHT0g Brittany took on a sales role. Every sales role has one deciding metric: Number of sales. Brittany admits she had yet to make a sale. No sales = No value to the company. She goes on to say that she's had "good meetings with my manager" and has been "working really hard." In sales, these are not metrics of success. The language of business is numbers! It's critical to be clear about the expectations of the job you're interviewing for, such as targets and goals and the timeframes you're expected to achieve them within. · Sales quota (weekly, monthly, quarterly) · Net promoter score (NPS) · Number of calls (outbound, inbound) · Number of units produced · Average handle time, average talk time, first-call resolution · Order picking accuracy · Customer satisfaction score (CSAT) · Number of new followers, click-through rate, ad clicks, cost per click, page likes. · Days payable outstanding (DPO) · Time to hire There isn't a job that doesn't have, or can't have, any success metrics attached to it. At any given time, you should know what your employer is measuring you against (key performance indicators, benchmarks) and your current productivity stats. Though I don't know Cloudflare’s hiring process or how Brittany was onboarded, she took on a sales role that, like all sales roles, was 100% performance-metric-driven, which she shouldn't have. Not everyone is cut out for sales. More and more job seekers, desperate to get hired, are accepting jobs without fully understanding what the job involves and what they'll be held accountable for. The next time you find yourself in an interview, make it a point to delve into the expectations of the job by asking the following questions: · "How is success measured in this role? How often?" (You want numbers!) · "What should be the immediate priorities for me in this role?" · "What reports or dashboards will be available to me? Will I receive them daily, weekly or monthly?" · "How often are performance reviews conducted?" · "Can you provide me with an example of someone who wasn't meeting expectations and got themselves back on track? What did they do?" · My favourite: "Please walk me through your management style. How will you manage me?" When formulating your expectation questions, think: How much? How high? How low? Increase by how much? Save by how much? Within what range? Ask about benchmarks and KPIs. Know deadlines. (e.g., You must submit the company's 450 employee payroll no later than 2:00 PM every Tuesday.) Don't rely solely on the job description, which most likely had vague expectations such as "meet monthly sales quota," "or increase social media engagement." You want to know that your monthly sales quota, as a pharmaceutical rep for the territory you'd be assigned to, is $65K or as the company's social media manager, the expectation is to increase social media engagement—you'll also want to define how the company defines "engagement"—across all five of the company's social media accounts by 25% before the year's end. It's pointless to take on a job if you feel you will not be able to deliver. When asking my above-mentioned discovery questions, I keep reminding myself of the adage, "Forewarned is forearmed." The last thing I want to say to my boss when discussing my performance is, "I didn't know." As the global economy continues its surreal rollercoaster ride, understandably, companies are expecting more from their employees. Knowing and assessing the performance expectations of the job you're interviewing for is essential to avoiding expectations mismatch. ___________________________________________________________________________ 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

Reviving Education: A Call to Reform the System for the Next Generation

By Dale Jodoin In a rapidly changing world, the education system has become a subject of intense debate. Some argue that it has failed the current generation, particularly Generation Z, and that the blame cannot be solely placed on the young minds navigating through it. The transformation of education into a more left-leaning system has led to concerns about its impact on the development of young adults and children. Critics contend that today's students are being pushed through the system without learning one of life's most valuable lessons – the ability to fail and learn from their mistakes. In an era where a mistake is often seen as a reason for coddling rather than growth, the importance of resilience and personal growth is being overshadowed. Moreover, there are concerns about the curriculum itself. History, once considered a cornerstone of education, seems to have taken a backseat in the modern classroom. Financial literacy, which includes essential life skills like balancing a bank account and understanding work ethics, is often absent from the curriculum as well. These omissions can leave young adults ill-prepared for the real world. One of the criticisms centers around the perception that the education system values activism over academics. Some argue that teachers are pushing their own agendas, and this may be particularly true in certain regions like Canada. Instead of instilling critical thinking skills and a well-rounded education, the focus has shifted towards pushing students to engage in protests or furthering a particular ideology. When these students eventually reach university, they are met with a new set of challenges. Many claim that universities are breeding grounds for propaganda, cancel culture, and socialist behavior. This has raised concerns about the impact of higher education on the formation of young minds. However, it's important to consider the unique challenges that Generation Z has faced, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. With lockdowns and remote learning becoming the norm, many students have missed out on the social interactions and hands-on learning experiences that are crucial for their development. These disruptions have undoubtedly impacted their ability to learn and adapt. Blaming the young generation for these shortcomings may not be fair. Instead, it's essential to recognize that they are products of an evolving education system that needs reform. If we wish to move forward, it is imperative to acknowledge that the system has failed in some aspects. To ensure a brighter future, we must revamp our education system, reintroduce essential life skills, and place a renewed emphasis on academic excellence. the issues facing Generation Z and their education are complex and multifaceted. While there are valid concerns about the direction of the education system, it is essential to approach this matter with nuance and empathy. Rather than placing blame on the young generation, let us work together to reform the education system, preparing future generations for success in a rapidly changing world.

Heavy Weather Guide

from Wayne & Tamara My girlfriend and I are basically the same age, just a six month difference. When I went to buy the engagement ring, I felt certain she was the right one. She accepted my proposal by saying, "If we go slow…" We've been doing that. We had the ring resized to fit her finger, and the wedding wasn't to be for two years. This morning she broke it off. We were happy and taking it slow, but for some reason it felt fast to her. Right from the start, her relatives pressured her to break up. She asked me questions, I answered honestly, and my answers were acceptable. I want to get married and have my own happy family in the next five years. Preferably in the next two. This afternoon I even cried. What can or should I do? I know suicide's not the answer, but maybe it would make a difference to her and them. No, I don't want to do that, but like I said, I'm feeling sad today. Michael Michael, on a merchant ship the second mate is responsible for navigation. Traditionally, each morning the mate would rise, take a fix on the stars, and recompute a fresh course to the destination. This is necessary because the wind and sea push the ship off yesterday's course. The mate can chart a course and ring up the speed, but the sea determines when the ship will arrive. There is no point fighting against the sea, or against life. Ordinarily when a person thinks of suicide, it is because they are holding to a fixed idea, and they cannot imagine life in any other way. But life is full of possibilities. If your depression is serious, seek help. But your sadness seems based on rigid expectations. You have a schedule in your head, and you want life to conform to your schedule. In the next two years you want to find a woman who loves you, whom you love, who will marry you and produce children. That sounds more like ordering a new car than love. Out of great love for someone who loves you, come a family and happiness. Where is the great love for this woman in your letter? No, what we hear is the two year schedule. What we hear is the difference between this woman, and your plans for a woman. Life, and people, cannot be bent to your will. Surrender your schedule and allow your life to unfold. A mariner’s traditional farewell is wishing a friend fair winds and a following sea. But the truth is, we learn more about ourselves in a storm than in calm waters. Wayne & Tamara Seesaw I'm a single woman who is intelligent, kind-hearted, and attractive. I recently ended a relationship with a man I'll call Jordan. Jordan slowly moved from wanting to spend every moment with me to "needing some space." Jordan is bipolar and refuses to seek help, and my attempts to help left him better and me with an hour of sleep. Recently we enjoyed a great afternoon when he invited me to a party. Well, the last time we went to a party, I was basically left by the punchbowl. When I gently expressed my concern, he screamed, "Get out!" Which I promptly did. I realize I'm stupid to want anything but to move on, but for curiosity's sake, because it's driving me crazy, what on earth is his problem? We seem to want the same thing, each other, yet he's going back and forth faster than a swing. Darlene Darlene, you ask what on earth is his problem. To borrow a teenagers’ phrase, "Duh?" He is an unmedicated, bipolar person. As long as he won't address the problem of his mood swings, there is no place on the swing for you. Tamara SEND LETTERS TO: Directanswers@WayneAndTamara.com

In the Lab with Natural Immune Formulas

By Common Sense Health – W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford This week let’s look behind the scenes, in the labs where doctors and scientists are designing health supplements that address specific goals. What’s motivating them? What are they trying to do? And how successful are they? There are thousands of natural health supplements on the market – from vitamins and minerals to botanicals and proteins, plus all kinds of things falling into categories like enzymes and fatty acids. Then on top of this, there all the natural therapies offered by physical therapists, chiropractors, acupuncturists, and so on. Collectively, it’s a mega-billion set of industries. Complicating the scene are corporations, like Proctor & Gamble, Bayer, and Abbott. Going toe to toe in the marketplace with these giants are small businesses, whom we can say from working with them for so many years, are the experts most worth listening to. Let’s talk then about that profit motive of either the drug companies or the natural health industry. What’s important is not that they are making money. If we all were as industrious, the economy might be better. No, we have no issue with making money from products that genuinely help people. The worst to come of it might be a small dent in the wallet – nothing in comparison to gambling, junk food, tobacco, and countless other industries that destroy lives and deserve our wrath. Specific to healthcare products, it's the pharmaceutical ones, with their side effects, that should trouble us. We need to scrutinize them carefully, because they come with risks and sometimes when they work well, they give society a “get out of jail” pass. What’s the incentive to work at health if a pill will do it? It’s no good when drugs are just treatments, not solutions to the root problems. Next, let’s look at the people in the labs working on natural products – like a powdered form of a root. You can take your chances with the lady growing the root in her backyard, or you can find umpteen versions of the same thing produced by those who test and validate the potency, cleanliness, and ethical sources of the root. Either way, unless we are talking about mushrooms, you are likely not going to get sick – and you might find help for your problem. For the past couple of weeks, we’ve been writing about postbiotics. The product getting the Gifford-Jones stamp of approval is Certified Naturals Postbiotic Immune Formula containing Epicor, a fermented yeast that has all the important metabolites that probiotics produce ready for immediate absorption. Unlike prebiotics and probiotics, postbiotics are already fermented before it gets to the gut. Here’s an example of scientists in a lab creating a product that clean, stable, and loaded with the nutrients beneficial to the gut and fueling the body’s natural immune system. Does Epicor have any negative side effects? No. Is it backed by clinical trials evaluating effectiveness in reducing the risk of colds and flus? Yes. Is it designed by credible scientists in trusted labs? Yes. Is Certified Naturals Postbiotic Immune Formula, the product we recommend, manufactured in inspected facilities? Yes, it is. A Gifford-Jones mantra is “all things in moderation”, and that goes for feeding your gut too – with food or supplements. Always be sure to keep your doctor informed of what supplements you are taking. For people with low or high blood pressure, this is especially important. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also take extra care in what they eat and what supplements they take. Never forget, keep your pills, supplements, and any other dangerous substances well out of the reach of children. 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

When did Canadians and Politicians lose their compassion

By Lisa Robinson - Pickering City Councillor Mental Health Week and Bell Let’s Talk Day, hold great importance dear to my heart as it sheds light on the urgent need for support and assistance for those struggling with mental health issues. However, instead of providing people with the necessary help, it seems that we are offering excuses and enabling harmful behaviors. In the past, when someone was mistaken for another gender, we would offer them the support they needed to get to the root of the problem. If one had an addiction, we would again offer them the support they needed to help stop the addiction, yet in today’s world because of a very loud minority that believes that the rest of society should just play along with particular narratives, we are now being forced to support certain fantasies, delusions, and addictions. Some of these may hold no validity as they have not been confirmed or substantiated by concrete evidence or professional assessment. One must be aware of the human desire to want to receive recognition and thus sometimes plays a significant role in who or what one wants to portray themselves as because without it they receive little to no recognition from their peers. Help is no longer sought to get to the root of the problem, but is now given to perpetuate certain behaviors, and this is deeply troubling, even more alarming is the fact that the government itself also promotes these narratives as a way of political posturing rather than genuinely addressing or solving an issue to help those with mental illness. The very individuals who claim to advocate for mental health are often the ones who contribute to its deterioration. Take for example the Mayor, who released a video addressing mental health and portraying himself as a champion for the cause. However, his actions contradict his words. He has caused significant mental distress for many, myself included. Incidents of bullying, name-calling, and the silencing of opposing voices. Voting to sanction my pay as a single mother for three months, with no other support or income coming in leaving me unable to provide for my family or even pay my mortgage. I was on the verge of resorting to the use of a food bank. It is hypocritical for someone who causes such hardship, to then expect people to approach him for support and raise awareness. This same individual, along with another member of the previous Council, violated the stay-at-home orders during the Covid pandemic. While families were suffering, losing loved ones who died alone, unable to visit loved ones over Christmas, the list goes on, council members were traveling and prioritizing their own mental well-being. It is deeply distressing that they would promote isolation and abandonment for others while enjoying their freedom. This issue of politicians dismissing the mental anguish this isolation caused on its residents soon became a global concern, and not just confined to the boundaries of Pickering. I also recall Bell Let's Talk Day, where they claimed to be advocates for mental health. However, shortly after the event, they terminated all their unvaccinated staff, causing significant mental anguish. It is alarming that the very institutions and individuals who claim to support mental health are now offering an escape of using (MAID) medical assistance in dying, instead of providing the necessary help for individuals to understand and address their challenges. It's challenging for me to fully trust the credibility of politicians when it comes to their understanding of mental health, especially when claims have also been made by a couple of my colleagues on council that artwork improves one’s mental health. I think it is important to recognize at this time after much research that the true benefit lies in the act of creating art rather than merely observing it. The same council member also stated that because of the division of city and regional responsibilities, we as a city should not use our resources to help fund the less fortunate. Canada has become a world leader in euthanasia. Since the introduction of Federal Legislation in 2016, there have been over 44,958 of these medical-assisted deaths and each year it keeps rising. In 2022, there was a 30% increase over the year before in the number of MAID deaths as reported by a Health Canada report. Very few criteria need to be met to end your life, but what concerns me is that as of March 2024, Canadians whose only medical condition is mental illness will also be eligible for MAID. I brought this to the attention of the Council back on February 27, 2023, when I lost in a 6 to 1 vote on moving forward with the Ontario Big City Mayor's recommendations on the health and homelessness crisis. I fear that most of our homeless have a mental illness, and with Durham Region creating low barrier hubs and/or housing that may give access to physicians and nurse practitioners, it may make this type of program easier to access and administer medical assisted dying to the very vulnerable people that we are trying to protect. Instead of offering genuine assistance and understanding to those in need, we are now presenting them with an option to no longer exist if they find their situation unbearable. This approach is not only deeply saddening but also highly problematic. Individuals with mental illness deserve proper care and support, not an easy way out. It is disheartening to see that large corporations and the government often show up for photo opportunities like flag raisings, and speak convincingly about mental health, but their actions reveal them to be hypocrites. We as a society must return to a time when seeking help was met with compassion, free from fear of repercussions, or being told that the only solution is to make oneself disappear. "Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head-On And Rise Above It"

Public Transit From the Lens of Human Rights

By Maurice Brenner Deputy Mayor/Regional Councillor Ward 1 Pickering On January 1st, those who use Public Transit (DRT) across Durham woke up to a new reality. The under funded service taken for granted by many, implemented a series of cuts and realignment of routes with no consultation with riders, but in the name of efficiencies. This weeks Column will take a deep drive through the lens of Human Rights, and why the Pickering Accessibility Advisory Committee feels that DRT has violated the Ontario Human Rights Code (Code) and the AODA. On January 17th, as an appointed member to the Pickering Accessibility Advisory Committee, I presented an overview of the DRT reductions in Service level triggering a wholesome discussion and a powerful statement through a resolution that will be presented to Pickering Council for ratification February 26th. Given the urgency that DRT was commencing a month end review of the impacts of the changes, I felt it was prudent to provide to DRT in advance of the February 7th DRT Executive Committee a copy of the resolution “That the Accessibility Advisory Committee finds the Service Changes implemented by Durham Region Transit implemented on January 1, 2024 to be in contravention of the Ontario Human Rights Code (OHRC) and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA); and, That the Accessibility Advisory Committee requests that the Council of the City of Pickering send a letter to the Region of Durham requesting that they reverse the service changes immediately and consult with Pickering residents and key stakeholders; including those with accessibility needs; on any future services changes.” The Committee applied the lens under the Ontario Human Rights Code and the AODA with-in the context that DRT is considered a service provider and while changes may have been made to achieve maximum performance and utilization of existing resources, it failed to look at the impacts the changes would have on a cross section of persons with disabilities. The DRT changes made assumptions that all customers could meet the distance requirement of 800m to a stop when in fact those with mobility issues and invisible disabilities can not. It made assumptions that routes where only a small number of customers were using Transit needed to be cancelled and failed to take into consideration if the cancelation denied persons with a disability access to Transit which factored in the criteria for who qualifies for Specialized Services which further placed the emphasis on the utilization of DRT regular services. Under the Code, service providers have a legal duty to accommodate the needs of people with disabilities who are adversely affected by a requirement, rule or standard. In this instance while not intended this shift has resulted in systemic discrimination. Accommodation is necessary to ensure that people with disabilities have equal opportunities, access and benefits. When the changed to service levels were being considered, it lacked inclusively and failed to accommodate the needs of a person with a disability in a way that promotes integration and full participation. What Is the Duty To Accommodate: The duty to accommodate has both a substantive and a procedural component. The procedure to assess an accommodation (the process) is as important as the substantive content of the accommodation. In a case involving the accommodation of a mental health disability in the workplace, the court said: “a failure to give any thought or consideration to the issue of accommodation, including what, if any, steps could be taken constitutes a failure to satisfy the ‘procedural ’duty to accommodate.” In Ontario, a failure in the procedural duty to accommodate can lead to a finding of a breach of the Code even if there was no substantive accommodation that could have been provided short of undue hardship. Failure to perform either component of the duty is a failure to carry out the duty to accommodate. DRT is a Public Sector organization and can not argue that providing accommodation would cause undue hardship. Having failed to explore accommodations and a failure to take positive steps to ensure that disadvantaged groups benefit equally from services offered to the general public, DRT has contravened the Code. DRT also failed to take into consideration The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) Under the AODA, government public service providers are required to comply with accessibility standards in varying degrees relative to an organization’s size and sector. There is an expectation to prevent barriers at the design stage including Policy, organizations should be aware of systemic barriers and should actively identify and seek to remove these existing barriers. Public Participation: This item will be discussed February 7th at 1:30 at the DRT Executive Committee located at Durham Regional Headquarters in the Council Chamber 605 Rossland Rd E, Whitby, ON L1N 0B7 and is open to anyone who wishes to attend.

DA PLANE! ~ DA PLANE! BOSS WELCOME TO FANTASY ISLAND “OSHAWA”

By Joe Ingino Editor/Publisher ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States “I live a dream in a nightmare world” Always Remember That The cosmic blueprint of your life was written in code across the sky at the moment you were born. Decode Your Life By Living It Without Regret or Sorrow. - ONE DAY AT A TIME - Remember the old ‘FANTASY ISLAND’? With my favorite actor Hervé Villechaize -Tattoo and Ricardo Montalbán (Mr. Roarke). It appears that Oshawa has become ‘FANTASY ISLAND’ of sort, as it can only be described as a delusional fantasy the way our city elect govern the city or the island we become within Durham Region. Before you stop laughing... We do have our own Mr. Roarke. In Oshawa we call him Mayor Carter. Our Tattoo is our Mayor brown nosed want to be Mayor in the next election side kick. Councillor Tito-Dante Marimpietri, Chair of the Economic and Development Services Committee. Talk about make believe. Tattoo as Chair of the Economic and Development Services Committee. How are we expected to grow in a positive way with someone that has never held a real job that demanded the same skill set that is expected for such chairship. An individual that out of office at best held a realtor job. Really, a realtor is making million dollar decision on our behalf? Is there any wonder the city wasted 30 million on a south end park. Made numerous taxpayers waste of money, then the city turns around and hits taxpayers with a hefty property tax increase. Only in fantasy Island you are led to believe that the City is prospering.... while citizens sleep on our city streets and along ravines in -20 weather. The City Mayor loves to spew development statistics while he allows our prime farm lands to the north to be raped by developers looking to make millions off our incompetency. If we need housing would it not make more sense to go high rise instead of spread across prime farm land? But wait. Just this week Fantasy Island released: City of Oshawa launches new 10-year Economic Development Strategy. Pure, insanity and a desperate attempt to fool taxpayers in thinking that those elected care about the city. The release claimed: The City of Oshawa is pleased to announce the launch of its new Economic Development Strategy that aims to drive job growth and further investment in the city. The Strategy focuses on enhanced trade, diversification and quality of life and positions Oshawa for future economies, opportunities and overall growth. This is the same administration that allowed GM to walk away from Oshawa as they left us with a huge environmental mess while giving every Oshawa citizen the famous Trudeau salute. The same administration that feared accountability from GM. I guess that the saying you get what you paid for is so true here: We elect incompetency and we get incompetency. How are we to expect prosperity when those making the decision have never had or will ever have the business experience, academics and or related discipline experience to make the decisions they entrusted to make. So what do we the tax payer get. Pipe dreams. ‘focuses on enhanced trade, diversification...’ Really, this is the same administration that practices, corporate bias, prejudice and discrimination against local businesses. The same administration that fails to acknowledge 30 year old business operating in the City Downtown. The released continued: ‘To complement existing sectors such as healthcare, education, advanced manufacturing and energy generation, emerging sectors were identified in high-growth fields such as: Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality, Cybersecurity, eSports, EV and Automotive Technologies.’ Wake up. Who put this together. Do they even know where Oshawa is. Have they driven downtown Oshawa. Are they blind? The City practically gave away strategic properties to the College/University in hope that the walk traffic would revive the core. This only accomplished the few parking spots in the core to be used by students. This taking away from the possible patrons to local downtown business. Look at the vacancies in the core. Have anyone at the city approached any downtown local businesses and asked what is the biggest issues. I am sure none will tell you. Artificial Intelligence, Augmented reality, Cybersecurity or EV. Like really... EV. Taking up more parking spaces in the core. Who is doing the thinking here Tattoo. How about tackling the high taxes. How about complementing the creating of more housing in the form of high rise. How about complementing the drug/crime/homeless in Oshawa. In 20 years. I have yet to see my local or regional councillor walk in to my place of business and ask me what the core needs. I am the media. Do you think they have any other business? But wait... Let the city put out another pipe dream and overlook the white elephant in the room. I think Mr. Roarke and Tattoo are way out of touch with reality. They have no real grasp of reality and it shows in their 10 year pipe dream. Da Plane, Da Plane is going down Boss. Da Plane.

Canada’s politics and the military

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East While many things are happening in the world in quick succession, some interesting things are evolving in Canada too. On the political side, we are sensing some sings of panic in the Liberal minority government. On the military side, a continuous lack of funding for infrastructure and equipment and frequent changes at the chief of defence staff level serve to further weaken an already struggling organization. In a landmark ruling, the Federal Court found that the issuance of the Proclamation and associated Regulations and Order under the Emergencies Act used to disperse Freedom Convoy protestors, was unconstitutional and unreasonable and exceeded the act’s intended scope. The court highlighted violations of the Charter rights, specifically encroaching upon freedom of thought, opinion, and expression, along with an infringement on the right to security against unreasonable search or seizure. The Federal Court decision also touched upon special economic measures taken by the Trudeau government to freeze the bank accounts of Freedom Convoy organizers and protesters. Justice Richard Mosley rejected the government’s claim that freezing the accounts represented minimum impairment under the Economic Measures. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Chrystia Freeland who just returned from the World Economic Foundation (WEF) summit in Davos where she is a trustee, has announced the government’s intention to appeal. “So we are aware of the court decision. We have discussed it with the Prime Minister, with Cabinet colleagues, with senior federal government officials and experts. We respect very much Canada’s independent judiciary. However, we do not agree with this decision. And respectfully, we will be appealing it,” said Freeland. “I was convinced at the time, it was the right thing to do. It was the necessary thing to do. I remain and we remain convinced of that,” Freeland re-iterated when asked about the special economic measures. Leaving this evolving political scenario for the moment, let us take a look on what is happening or what should be happening in our military. In view of the extensive military action around the world, in which Canada is also called upon to contribute, the status of our military is of concern. Lack of political attention and lack of adequate funding have been problems for decades. The leadership of the armed forces is in disarray and more interested in politics than looking to strengthening our armed forces in a very dangerous world. Emerging technologies in the contemporary period are developing at a rapid pace. Artificial intelligence, for example, is quickly changing the ways in which we gather and interpret data. Failure to adopt technologies means that the Canadian military risks being deployed in future operations against adversaries who have existing access to such modern technologies. However, technology will not revolutionize operations by itself. Its effective implementation will require new ideas about how it can be used. Senior Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) leadership should foster and maintain a feedback loop among officers concerning their views on the introduction of emerging technologies. Special attention should be paid to military engineering skills, which seem to take the headlines today. One of the main outputs of a new technologically inclined organizational culture would be the generation of new ideas towards doctrine, strategies and operational methods. Essentially, leadership needs to enthusiastically embrace the introduction of the new technologies and focus on it instead of other issues. A realistic field experience is also an incredibly important element of the innovation process. This will unfold either during active operations or through major training and tabletop exercises. It will allow officers to gain as much direct experience with the emerging technologies as possible, which in turn can help allow the officers to build trust and acceptance about its usage. It is best if this can occur prior to the start of any major conflict as learning during combat operations carries the risk of greater numbers of causalities. Overall, undergoing realistic field and tabletop exercises are the best ways for a military to judge the success of innovation efforts during peacetime as they will provide CAF leadership with direct evidence and data. Success will be determined by analyzing the CAF’s performance during the exercises to identify if the new technologies allowed for new or more effective operational methods to unfold in terms of lethality, speed, or other metrics of efficiency. To help evaluate the success of new technologies the CAF should also continue to participate in as many multinational allied field exercises as possible, as they allow the CAF to evaluate whether the new technologies have helped bolster their interoperability capabilities, which have been prioritized as a goal for the CAF. Considerations beyond operational effectiveness will always be taken into account when evaluating the impact of innovation efforts. States will often be politically motivated by a broad variety of intentions, such as a desire to be seen as a more reliable ally. However, sometimes-complicated situations may unfold where new technologies help the military meet certain goals, but not others. For example, new technological investments may create new interoperability opportunities, which satisfy certain political considerations. At the same time they may also hamper the operational effectiveness of the military. Leadership will eventually need to articulate and prioritize which goals they want to use to measure the success of innovative efforts. The current generation of technologies are continuously evolving, while militaries now also face a growing need to focus on multi-domain operations. These blur the lines between conflict and peacetime, and so faster solutions are required to meet the demands of these combined challenges. To mitigate costs during complex innovative efforts under such circumstances, defence officials need to lay as much foundation for change as possible to avoid any organizational obstacles that can further constrain the integration process. Building such a foundation will allow the Canadian defence community to approach new technologies in a less risk-averse manner and quicken the decision-making cycle. Technological innovation requires new methods of management to allow the CAF to meet current and future challenges. Civilian and military leadership will need to engage in quicker decision-making cycles and reform the equipment procurement process to allow for the rapid acquisition of emerging technologies. This however requires funding, which is nowhere to be seen, and the Minister of Defence, Bill Blair, with his only extensive experience in policing and no military background, does not seem interested in fighting for some. What are your thoughts?

GOV VS MEDIA

By Dale Jodoin The relationship between the government and news media in Canada has entered a new phase, one that significantly blurs the lines of journalistic independence. This development has become a subject of intense debate and scrutiny, especially with the major news outlets in Canada receiving direct financial support from the government. In the heart of this debate is a simple yet profound question: How does government funding affect the objectivity and independence of the media? This question becomes critical when we consider the traditional role of the media as a watchdog of democracy, tasked with holding the government accountable and providing unbiased information to the public. Let's explore the current landscape. In Canada, major news outlets, both in print and television, have started receiving financial aid from the government. This move, ostensibly aimed at helping these media organizations navigate through financial difficulties, has raised eyebrows and questions about the future of independent journalism in the country. This government funding is not a trivial matter; it directly impacts the operational dynamics of these news organizations. Critics argue that accepting financial support from the government could lead to a conflict of interest, where news outlets might hesitate to criticize government policies or actions, fearing the loss of funding. This could potentially lead to a situation where the media becomes less of a watchdog and more of a mouthpiece for government narratives. The implications of this development are far-reaching. One of the primary concerns is the erosion of public trust in the media. When the audience starts to perceive news outlets as extensions of the government, rather than independent entities, it can lead to a significant decline in the credibility of these outlets. This loss of trust is not just a problem for the media organizations; it undermines the very foundation of a healthy democracy, where access to unbiased information is crucial for informed decision-making by the public. Moreover, the situation in Canada reflects a broader global trend where governments are increasingly intervening in the media landscape, either through direct funding or regulatory measures. This trend raises important questions about the future of press freedom and the role of media in democratic societies. However, it's also important to understand the challenges faced by news media in the digital age. The traditional revenue models, mainly based on advertising and subscriptions, have been disrupted by the rise of digital platforms. This economic pressure has made some media outlets more receptive to government assistance, viewing it as a necessary measure for survival. In light of these developments, it becomes crucial for media organizations to find innovative ways to maintain their independence. This could involve diversifying revenue streams, investing in investigative journalism, and strengthening editorial independence to ensure that their reporting remains unbiased and fact-based, irrespective of funding sources. For the public, this situation underscores the importance of media literacy and critical thinking. It's vital for the audience to be aware of the potential influences on the news they consume and to seek out a variety of news sources to get a well-rounded view of current events. In conclusion, the direct funding of major news media by the Canadian government is a development that warrants careful scrutiny and open debate. While the financial support might offer a lifeline to struggling media organizations, it also poses significant risks to journalistic independence and public trust. As we navigate this complex landscape, the need for a free, independent, and diverse press remains more important than ever. The future of democratic discourse in Canada may well depend on how this delicate balance is maintained.

The Ultimate Job Search Hack: Know Your Limitations

By Nick Kossovan The adage, "You can achieve anything you set your mind to," is a cruel lie. You most likely heard this phrase when you were young, your future was wide open, and your world was filled with possibilities. Due to your youthful, hopeful, and irrational perspective, you likely interpreted this phrase as referring to karmic or cosmic rewards, thus creating the false belief that if you wish for something, work hard enough, and want it badly enough, it'll somehow materialize. That's not how the world works. Wishing, wanting, and working towards will increase your chances of success, but they don't guarantee it. Searching for a job emphasizes "not a guarantee" while humbling you. Many job seekers cling too tightly to their definition of career success, likely shaped by their environment. During our youth, many things we wished for were long shots, such as becoming an actor, filmmaker, writer, rockstar, or CEO of a Fortune 500 company. It's common for a high school student to dream of becoming a professional athlete and devote enormous physical and mental energy to trying to achieve their dream without considering their odds of success; after all, they're young. Maybe you were such a student. Less than 0.1% of players—one out of every 1,000—participating in organized hockey in North America make it to the NHL. Statistically, only 3 in 10,000, .03 percent, male high school basketball players will join an NBA Roster. Having experienced high school, you know how much the captain of the football team identity derives from being "the captain of the football team." When he doesn't make it to the NFL, what becomes of his identity? As adults, we identify with our job title and employer. "You're a Senior Technical Program Manager at Google... impressive." Then, when you're part of a layoff, your identity is shattered. A job search not going as "hoped"—rarely does a job search go "as hoped"—hurts. You know what's even worse? Putting all your blood, sweat, tears and time into trying to obtain a job, career, or position at your dream company that isn't meant to be. Even positions you feel should be within your reach—you believe you have the skills, experience, and qualifications—may be a long shot, especially in today's hyper-competitive job market. As I age, I'm mindful that there's always someone younger and hungrier who wants my position. Then there's AI, advancing exponentially daily, and low-cost overseas labour nipping at my heels. Never underestimate whom and what you're competing against. Your qualifications and skills aren't as unique as you think. Moreover, success is influenced by a complex interplay of internal and external factors. I see it all the time: job seekers refusing to accept that no matter how much they want a particular job or how hard they work or network, it's simply not meant to be. The sooner you come to the realization you're not going to be a rockstar, make a living as a social media influencer, that you don't have what it takes to lead and manage people—something more people need to come to terms with—then the sooner you can start reframing what "success" means to you. "We must be willing to let go of the life we planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us." - Epictetus, Greek Stoic philosopher. Based on my observations, I've come to realize that trying to portray ourselves as we wish to be perceived and identified as (e.g., financially successful, confident, a leader) is what trips us up. I find it fascinating how married some people get to their idealized image of themselves and then blame everyone when it doesn't materialize, instead of asking themselves, Do I have what it takes? Do I really want what I'm aiming for? My oldest friend's entire working life, still ongoing, has been washing cars for a car rental company. He's one of the happiest people I know. His inner peace is Zen-like because he accepts who he is and is thankful for what he has rather than focusing on, as most people do, what he doesn't have. As I see it, job searching, your chance to reinvent yourself, is hard enough without chasing what's not in your cards. We all know someone, perhaps yourself, who has been pursuing a career goal, in various degrees of effort, for quite some time without success, hitting their head against the proverbial brick wall. More than once, I've given a job seeker, after listening to their job search frustrations and how much time and effort they devote to their search, the advice, "I think you'd be happier pursuing a different goal that better fits you and your life." Why spend your life feeling like a failure and your life's on hold while trying to attain an unattainable career status? There's no better time than when you're job searching to explore employment options that fit your inherent capabilities better. Acknowledging your limitations (READ: your probability of success) and accordingly adjusting your job search is the best job search hack I know. ___________________________________________________________________________ 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

CALLING ON DEREK GIBERSON RESIGNATION

WHY AM I BEING ATTACKED BY CITY COUNCILLOR DEREK GIBERSON. IS THIS WHAT WE ELECTED HIM TO OFFICE FOR. I CALL FOR HIS RESIGNATION. Oshawa mayoralty candidate and newspaper publisher Joe Ingino will face an audit over his 2022 campaign expenses because “of a number of questions that remain over his advertising.” That was the decision made Thursday by the Joint Compliance Audit Committee, which looks into and evaluates complaints made by members of the public regarding spending or contributions made to candidates for the 2022 municipal election. The committee heard from Ingino, who was the subject of a 99-page complaint over the amount and value of election advertising he placed for himself in the Oshawa/Durham Central newspaper, of which he is owner and publisher. Ingino was also a candidate who ran in the 2022 election, declaring his candidacy on May 4, 2022. Oshawa Ward 4 councillor Derek Giberson was one of six complainants who filed the 99-page complaint against Ingino. He and Roger Bouma, who also signed the complaint, spoke to the committee in support of the complaint on Thursday. At issue was the rate card for candidate advertising Giberson said candidates received from the Central, after nominations opened May 1. Giberson said that rate card valued ads in the Central at amounts going from $250 for 1/16th of a page to $400 for 1/8th of a page to $600 for 1/4th of a page all the way up to $2,250 for a full page. Giberson then added up all of Ingino’s ads throughout the election period to come up with a total ad spend of $219,687. Giberson pointed out that the total spending limit for mayoral campaigns in Oshawa was $111,153.25, calculating that Ingino spent $108,000 more than allowed under election spending limits. Ingino said that he had taken what he called a “gold” package for advertising which he valued at $3,000 in total. He didn’t provide the committee with a receipt at the time but said he would provide it to the auditor. Ingino’s total campaign expenses came out to $6,586.63 of which he said he spent $3,000 on advertising and $3,028.40 on signs, his two biggest expenses. YOUR TAX DOLLARS AT WORK... IF THEY DO THIS TO ME IMAGINE WHAT THEY DO TO YOU. GIBERSON I CALL FOR YOUR RESIGNATION IN THE NAME OF ALL THE PEOPLE THAT ARE SLEEPING ON OUR STREETS. IN THE NAME OF ALL THE CLOSED BUSINESSES. INSTEAD YOU WASTE OUR TAX DOLLARS IN WITCH HUNTS....

LET’S TALK NUMBERS

Tahir Khorasanee, LL.M. Senior Associate, Steinbergs LLP I am often asked about the amount of notice or severance employees are entitled to upon termination. Answering that question requires me to first review the employment agreement. Many times, there is an employment agreement, but it contains a termination provision that has been struck down by the courts and is therefore unenforceable. Most of the time, there is no written employment agreement at all. In both instances, the employee's entitlements upon termination are based on several factors, including age, salary, position, and length of service. There are often other considerations as well, which I will discuss in subsequent columns on a biweekly basis. As an example, Nemirovski was employed with Socast Inc for 19 months. He was a project manager and was awarded 19 months by the courts because Socast refused to provide Nemirovski with a reference letter, and his employment agreement had an onerous non-competition clause. In the absence of an enforceable termination provision that limits employees' entitlements to the minimums outlined in the Employment Standards Act, employees are entitled to anywhere between 2 to 30 months' notice or pay in lieu thereof. In some instances, such as with construction workers or those in seasonal industries, there may be no obligations upon termination. Failure to consult a lawyer initially to determine appropriate employee obligations upon termination results in wrongful dismissal claims, increasing costs significantly. The same holds true for employees who are often provided with a termination package paying only the Employment Standards Act minimums, which do not reflect the employee's actual entitlements. For many small businesses, having to pay 2 to 30 months' notice is a significant cost. These costs can easily be avoided if businesses consult a lawyer and conduct a human resource audit, reviewing existing employment agreements and policies, identifying deficiencies, and recommending strategies to limit liabilities. This involves an upfront cost but saves tens of thousands of dollars in the short term and even more in the long term. Employment agreements drafted after the COVID-19 pandemic prioritize reducing costs and providing businesses with flexibility. Many businesses went under during the COVID-19 pandemic, and those that survived did so because they sought legal advice early on. Businesses with employment contracts with an enforceable termination provision limiting the employee to the Employment Standards Act minimum can provide as little as 1 weeks’ notice, as opposed to 2 months to 30 months. In my next column, I will be answering employment law questions from both employees and employers. If you want me to answer your questions, email me at tkhorasanee@steinbergsllp.com. Tahir Khorasanee is currently the Vice President and the incoming president of the Employment Lawyers Association of Ontario. He is a Senior Associate at Steinbergs LLP. Tahir Khorasanee, LL.M. Senior Associate Steinbergs LLP

Conversations in the Community Page: Hidden Agenda’s and False Narratives.

It appears that the City of Pickering is following a familiar playbook employed by governments to control the narrative surrounding certain discussions. The Corporation of The City of Pickering has recently launched a 'Conversations in the Community' page, presenting it as being the sole destination for information on topics of community interest. However, it is essential to recognize that truth, like a flowing river, cannot be contained. It will always find its way to the surface, shining a light on hidden agendas and false narratives. One of the topics being discussed on this platform is the Changerooms at Pickering’s Chestnut Hill Recreation Centre. While the City is now encouraging us to seek facts exclusively from them, we must not forget that numerous individuals, myself included, have been advocating for months to allow individuals the choice to use a gender-specific change room. In 2022 Pickering decided to use a blanket approach that only members over the age of 18 are allowed to use gender-specific changerooms, while members under the age of 18, or non-members of any age are not allowed to use the gender-specific changeroom, and are forced to use the Universal changeroom which is inclusive to all and families. When did it become ok for a government to decide who does or does not have the right to deserve privacy when using vulnerable personal spaces? Concerns have been raised regarding the safety of such spaces, especially considering the increase in incidents worldwide, towards women and children when using these shared personal spaces. This notion of forcing someone into an environment that elicits discomfort and unease is not an approach I am comfortable with, nor am I comfortable with the excuse that because nothing serious has been reported at the Recreation Centre as of yet, they refuse to pursue the issue any further. So to make it clear, unless something terrible happens to an innocent person, nothing is going to change. And those are the facts, but that conversation is not being discussed on the new Community page. Another topic being discussed in this “only get the facts here page” is the concept of 15 minute and smart cities. It is perplexing that the city now presents themselves as experts on this matter when just a couple of weeks ago, they dismissed my having any discussions on the topic during a council meeting. The fact that both the Mayor and the CAO confirmed that they have never had any conversations or received any information on these topics amongst themselves or with any other level of government, is disheartening as Oshawa signed up to be a 15 minute city, quite some time ago. After inquiring about Pickering’s future, the Mayor yelled at me saying “We are not going down the rabbit hole” and “stop on the crazy street”. I was then silenced and not allowed to speak as the Mayor turned off my mic. I’d like to note however, burried within the budget, Two Hundred Thousand Dollars is going towards Pickering’s Smart City initiative for technology and data collection. So now the question arises, why would one choose to deceive the public in the first place, especially when we as a government are supposed to be open and transparent? Personally, I am of the opinion that if the City cannot engage in truthful transparent communications then how can one expect the people of Pickering to trust “Pickering’s Conversations in the Community” page as the sole destination to get the “facts” on any topic. Thus far, the contents in the community page, have not exhibited a resounding sense of truthfulness. Another interesting subject was how the city continues to speak about the Pickering Integrity Commissioner and their role as an “independent and impartial official”. I think it is worth asking the question of how is it possible for an Integrity Commissioner to truly remain unbiased, impartial, or truly independent when they are being paid by the corporation of the City of Pickering? Does this not raise concerns about the objectivity and independence of the office. Not to mention, it was only recently that the Council passed a bylaw that no one can speak to an Integrity Commissioner report as a delegate. That seems pretty odd in a democratic society. I even found myself in the unfortunate position of experiencing the impact of a biased integrity commissioner firsthand, and it was disheartening to witness the lack of regard for ethical standards in fairness, objectivity, and the pursuit of truth, not only in the report but surrounding the process, again being silenced to ask any questions. While I have merely scratched the surface on a few of the issues raised in Pickering’s new “Conversations in the Community page”, I intend to delve deeper into it in future columns and shed light on hidden agendas and false narratives. Presenting to you the other side, not just the government of Pickering’s sole narrative that they want you to believe. John C. Maxwell said it best when he said “Leaders can see what everybody else sees, but can think differently.” Until then, I invite you to follow me on social media. Twitter -@lifelibertylisa Facebook - Councillor Lisa Robinson, YouTube - Lisa Robinson and subscribe to my newsletter at www.lisarobinsonpolitician.ca for further updates, videos, and discussions, and I will see you back here again next week. Sending hugs I will always continue to seek the truth, challenge narratives, and foster meaningful conversations that truly represent the community's interests. "Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head-On And Rise Above It"

Hello Doc

By Maurice Brenner Deputy Mayor/Regional Councillor Ward 1 Pickering When we think of growth, the topic of infrastructure comes to mind. But infrastructure goes well beyond what’s physical which is why this weeks column will focus on how Durham Region is facing a Health Care Crisis caused by a lack of Family Physicians. During the pandemic, we got our first glance at what it was like to not have direct ability to access your family doctor followed by the virtual doctor. Then post pandemic we thought things would go back to normal, but it couldn’t as increasing numbers of our Doctors faced burnout, retirement and an inability to keep up with increasing pressures of growth. Today, 24.3% of Durham residents do not have access to a family doctor. Durham needs 145 new Family Physicians. When we put the City of Pickering under the microscope 25.2% of residents do not have access to a family doctor equaling a shortage of 19 Family Physicians. But Pickering is not alone, at this weeks Durham Regional Committee of the Whole, the Durham Physician Engagement Team reported similar alarming trends across the Region in every Municipality. Adding to the problem is a lack of Family Health Teams with only 2 across the entire Region with one in Pickering and one in Scugog. In an effort to address this crisis Durham and all 8 lower tier Municipalities need a coordinated approach for recruitment and need to band together to pressure the Province of Ontario to create and fund more Family Health Teams To learn more about our Doctor Shortage and the recommendations for moving forward check out Report #2024-COW-2 available on the Durham Region Website and watch for this item appearing on the agendas of your lower tie Municipality.