LinkedIn Isn’t the Place to Express Your Frustrations and Anger

By Nick Kossovan "The dogs bark, but the caravan moves on." - Arab proverb. If you spend time on LinkedIn, you'll undoubtedly notice the platform has become overrun with barking dogs—job seekers who are frustrated and angry—while employers keep moving on, looking after their self-interests. Job seekers expressing their "emotions" online aren't doing themselves any favours. It's common knowledge employers Google candidates and check their LinkedIn activity to determine whether they're interview-worthy. An employer's reputation and brand are represented by its employees, making it prudent to vet candidates' online behaviour by looking for red flags such as: · Offensive behaviour · Narcissistic behaviour · Content designed to provoke (trolling) · False information · Negative (read: bashing) posts about former employers or employers in general. The last red flag is worth noting as employer-related negative posts are increasingly prevalent. Some posts I've read come across as if the poster is waging a holy war against employers. Three reasons you shouldn't complain online: 1. Complaining is toxic. 2. Complaining is not leading. 3. Complaining keeps you stuck where you are. "Don't be overheard complaining... not even to yourself." - Marcus Aurelius. Describing something—an event, an experience, a person—negatively (complaining) without indicating the next steps or plans to fix the problem or yourself is easy. The act of complaining requires little thought and no action. What good has complaining ever done? Publicly venting your frustrations and anger may feel like you're "sticking it to the man," but does it change your circumstances, increase your chances of landing a job, or make you happier? Self-proclaiming career coaches and resume writers serve their self-interest by telling job seekers that the reason they're not getting interviews is because their resume sucks. While this may be true, it's rarely mentioned that employers may be turned off by a job seeker's online behaviour. I've met many job seekers with a rockstar-like resume, frustrated they weren't getting interviews. After reading some of their LinkedIn comments, I can see why employers aren't contacting them. I know of two instances where a job offer was rescinded due to the to-be employee's online behaviour. While your resume is important, what's more important—critical to landing interviews—is your digital footprint. Employers will disregard your candidacy no matter how skilled or experienced you are if they feel your online behaviour may affect their brand and reputation; hence, your online behaviour has consequences. Whether those consequences benefit or hinder your job search is entirely up to you. Keep your rants, vents, and anger about employers and the job market off LinkedIn and other social media platforms. While your feelings may be valid, your behaviour isn't. More than ever, Image is everything! Instead of showing your network and employers your armchair opinions about how employers don't know how to hire, show why you should be hired. Do not allow your ego to lead you to think your opinions and rants will influence employers' hiring decisions. On the other hand, while complaining may feel cathartic, it hinders your job search efforts because: Complaining is never a good look. When you post complaints on LinkedIn, you put your negativity on full display for your network and employers to see. Furthermore, you're publicly biting the hands that you want to feed you. Regardless of how you frame a "rant" or "venting," it'll likely convey a bitter, angry, or entitlement tone, which isn't an impression you want to give to your network and employers. · "Wow, this person would be difficult to work with." · "This person has a poor attitude." · "Why's this person painting all employers with the same brush?" · "This person is playing the 'I'm a victim!' card." · "This person needs to stop blaming everyone." Appearing bitter and angry towards employers will hinder your job search. Complaining in public shows a lack of emotional control and judgment. Managing your emotions and responding appropriately to challenging situations is a crucial aspect of being a professional. Complaining about your job search difficulties or criticizing employer hiring practices on LinkedIn shows a lack of self-control and judgment of the possible consequences of your online behaviour. Understandably, employers seek employees who can remain calm under pressure, handle setbacks gracefully, and project a positive, solution-focused attitude. Publicly expressing your frustrations suggests you might have trouble handling workplace challenges or negative feedback. Complaining makes you appear entitled. Complaining gives the impression that you feel entitled to a job and have unrealistic expectations, which are turnoffs. Employers gravitate towards candidates they feel will be grateful for the opportunity, eager to contribute, and committed to achieving success. When you complain, you appear focused more on what you believe you are entitled to than what you can offer. LinkedIn is the most powerful tool you have at your disposal to reach employers. Hence, you want to project an image that attracts employers as opposed to repelling employers, which is what you're doing when you complain about employers and the job market. Bashing employers on LinkedIn won't change how they look after their self-interests. Focus on your self-interests; to find an employer you'll want to align your career with. Barking at employers won't stop the caravan from moving on. ________________________________________________________________ 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

OUR DEMOCRATIC RIGHTS ARE BEING ELIMINATED AND WE ARE ALLOWING IT TO HAPPEN, SHAME ON US

It’s unfortunate but the majority of we the people, pay absolutely little attention to our municipal politics. Only when municipal elections come around every four years do some of us think about voting and then less than 50% of eligible voters actually vote, and probably half of those voters do not known whoor why they are voting for someone, they just want to be able to say they voted. If you were to ask people who their ward councillor is, most people couldn’t tell you. Why, because wepeople are too busy with our lives and blind to what’s happening in our city, town or community. Wetake little interest in municipal affairs People use the excuse for not voting, “why vote, they just do what they want”. Well that’s our mistake. Municipal politics are the one place that we can actually change things. Mayors and councillors actuallyhave to answer to us, the people not a party leader. So why are we not making them accountable? For these past years Municipal Councils across Ontario consisting of mayors and councillors who we elected, have slowly and sneakily been re-writing the by-laws to remove our rights at council meetings. Our so called representatives have voted by-laws aimed against we the people such as some listed; 1. reducing the allotted time each citizen can speak (delegate) to a topic on the agenda 2. banning neighbouring municipal citizens from delegating to a topic on the agenda 3. removing an open question period (a time allotted anyone to speak to the current agenda) 4. removed the right for a citizen to have a topic added to the agenda, when submitted within the required time prior to the council meeting 5. banning the right of a neighbouring citizen to have a topic added to the agenda when submitted within the required time prior to the council meeting 6. barring the media from filming or recording the council meeting unless approved by two coucillors and voted on by council prior to the council meeting 7. barring all members of the public from filming or recording the council meeting 8. banning members of the public from bringing placards, signs or flags of any kind to council 9. banning public show of support by applauding or public booing if opposed to a topic 10. trespassing ‘members of the public, that exercise their Civil and Human Rights”, from all publicbuildings for a period of time It would seem that the elected members of council(s) who have voted these by-law changes in, are in direct conflict with the “Constitution of Canada” and “Civil and Human Rights” and they, the members should be challenged. Also, 150 of 444 of our Municipal Councils, the Mayors and Councillors we elected, are now asking for more power. They want the power to fire their elected colleague and have that person prohibited from running in the next election. They want this done through an integrity commissioner so council can deny they fired an elected councillor. People Wake Up, Pay Attention, your Municipal Council meetings are usually held once a month, same week day of the month and the public can attend, just check on the internet for your city’s web site, council meetings and calendar for date and time, agendas are also posted.. If you are not able to attend, must councils do live streaming so you can watch at home, you can even watch past meeting. Remember, Silence Solves Nothing, It’s Time To Stand Up, Speak Up For Your Rights, Before They’re Gone. Keep Democracy Alive

Friends, Neighbours, and fellow Canadians

By Lisa Robinson I stand before you today, not just as an elected official but as a deeply concerned citizen who believes that our beloved city—and municipalities across Ontario and Canada—are heading in a dangerously wrong direction. It is with a heavy heart and a clear sense of duty that I address the serious concerns and allegations I must make against my Council, the Corporation of the City of Pickering, and other levels of government. Some of our city leaders have strayed far from the principles they were elected to uphold. They have shown a blatant disregard for the constitutional rights of our citizens—freedom of speech, freedom of expression, and freedom of the press are being trampled upon in pursuit of ideological and personal agendas. Our bylaws are being broken repeatedly, catering to special interest groups and developers while the voices of ordinary citizens are being silenced. In recent months, Pickering council has introduced draconian, undemocratic policies that limit public participation and transparency within our beloved chambers. Delegation time limits have been slashed from 10 minutes to 5, the public is no longer allowed to record public meetings, and the media too is barred from recording unless given a two-thirds majority of the council's approval. And already council has shown their true colours by voting against a media outlet who holds opposing views. Residents from outside of Pickering, including Durham residents, are prohibited from participating in our meetings unless the topic is approved by a two-thirds majority—this, despite we contract with their government and the fact that four of our council members sit on Durham Region Council. Even Pickering residents are now silenced from speaking openly, freely in our chambers unless their topic has been scrutinized under a microscope and approval given by a mover and seconder and a 2/3rds vote. Let's be clear: if the council doesn’t want to hear what you have to say, or if they don’t like your opinions, they will silence you. They are effectively forbidding you from having a voice. This is not just a disregard for free speech—it's an outright attack on your right to be heard. Let’s talk about the new, nebulous trespass policies—what I call the “hurt feelings bylaw.” These draconian rules give the council the power to banish anyone based on flimsy excuses like social media posts, language, tone of voice, or even what someone is wearing if it offends someone. This isn’t just a policy; it’s a blatant attempt to silence dissent, crush opposing views, and manipulate the narrative to fit their agenda,views, and control the narrative. We’ve seen what looks like outrageous manipulation in the city's YouTube feeds of our council and committee meetings—time jumps, white noise, and possible signs of audio tampering. When I pushed for an independent third party to record our meetings to ensure moving forward that these recordings were accurate and transparent, since the public is no longer allowed to record, the City of Pickering flatly refused. This isn’t just poor governance—it’s outright tyranny. Our councils and governments are intoxicated with power. It seems to give them a perverse pleasure to divide us, to make us feel helpless, to instill fear in those who dare to hold opposing opinions. This toxic culture is ruining relationships, tearing families apart, and forcing people to live in constant fear of speaking their minds, their truths. This nightmare needs to end, and it will only end if we, the people, rise above the nonsensical nonsense they are trying to impose. It’s absolutely scandalous how taxpayer dollars are being squandered on frivolous spending at every level of government, while critical needs like providing clean drinking water to our First Nations communities are callously ignored. Despite countless failed promises of keeping our duty to consult, as of this past July, 31 First Nations communities remain under long-term drinking water advisories. This is not just a failure—it's a betrayal. We hear endless land acknowledgments, but these are nothing more than empty words, lip service, when not backed by real action. Our First Nations people deserve access to clean, safe drinking water, and it is our solemn duty to push and deliver on that promise no matter what level of government. But the disgrace doesn't stop there. Our homeless population is increasing and our food banks are struggling to keep food on the shelves while our governments and city officials, who are supposed to protect and serve us, are instead taxing us deeper into poverty. Yet, their wages and benefits continue to increase, while they sit idly by, letting our most vulnerable citizens suffer in silence. Our government continues to waste taxpayer dollars on lavish perks for elected officials and city staff, sending funds abroad to other Countries without addressing the suffering of our own people. Millions of dollars are being funneled into consultants and reports that are hidden from the public, and thousands are spent on politicians to attend events that serve only to benefit the politicians and the vendors who wine and dine them for future business. Maybe the Premiere could put legislation in place that would disallow any elected official and city staff from receiving gifts and benefits from developers, vendors, special interest groups or anyone lobbying the governments for business. Maybe Politicians should wear these lobbyist logos on their jackets to show transparency of who supports them, so the people can keep track of how they vote and see where their loyalty lies. Rob Ford was a true champion of fiscal responsibility, unafraid to call out the wasteful perks enjoyed by city employees. He was determined to keep politicians and public servants in line, ensuring that every dollar of taxpayer money was spent wisely. This corruption must end. The City of Pickering on top of all of their wasteful spending is also vindictive, hateful and voted to spend $200,000 of tax payers dollars to fight me in a judicial review, instead of paying me $15,000 plus in lost salary that I was financially sanctioned on the recommendation by Principles Integrity for doing my job on behalf of my constituents. It's deeply troubling that Integrity Commissioners, who hold significant power over elected officials, are themselves unelected and paid by the very municipalities they oversee. This creates an inherent conflict of interest, where their loyalty may lie more with those who sign their paychecks than with the principles of fairness and accountability. I ask, do we really need them, They have only been implemented in the last few years, yet they wield immense influence over our democratic processes. Council and the Corporation of the City of Pickering and all levels of government need to remember that it is your money, meant to be used judiciously for the common good, not for self-serving agendas. This is not just mismanagement—it’s a criminal neglect of duty. In Pickering, the Integrity Commissioner has audaciously pushed for and was granted changes to our policies and procedures to ensure their Integrity reports cannot be questioned. This is nothing short of a blatant effort to shield their actions from scrutiny and undermine transparency and public trust. When you realize that Principles Integrity, the firm the Corporation of the City pays and relies on, is serving 65 other municipalities, it’s evident that their impartiality is severely compromised. In my personal experience, the Integrity Commissioner has proven to be untrustworthy and biased. They have repeatedly lied, failed to investigate complaints thoroughly, and refused to answer any questions from those they accuse, effectively preventing individuals from clearing their names. Let me be absolutely clear: this is a rigged system. The integrity of a process where those responsible for upholding fairness are instead serving the corporation's interests, not ours, is fundamentally flawed. It’s high time our Premier steps in and enacts legislation to protect the public’s interest and prevent officials from manipulating the system to shield their misconduct. We need reforms that ensure accountability and transparency, not a façade of integrity designed to protect the corrupt. In Pickering and throughout Canada we are also witnessing a disturbing trend where the right to personal dignity is being stripped away from men, women, boys, and girls in spaces that should be safe bathrooms, change rooms. People are being forced to share these spaces with members of the opposite sex, leading to widespread discomfort and real psychological harm to some. What’s even more troubling is that only members 18 years and older at our Recreation Complex are protected to use spaces aligned with their biological sex, leaving children and those who can’t afford memberships vulnerable and unprotected from these same rights. This is not just unfair; in my opinion it’s disgusting. We are discriminating against the most vulnerable among us—our children and those who lack the means to protect themselves are having to beg to use a biological changeroom. This is inhumane It’s absolutely absurd that these changes have only emerged since COVID. For as long as we’ve existed, nobody has ever had to beg for the basic right to use their biological washroom. It’s disturbing beyond belief that anyone ever thought this was a good idea. What we’re witnessing is a catastrophic lapse in common sense, leading to dangerous consequences. Globally, there have been too many tragic incidents in these spaces - these aren’t isolated events, and they can’t be ignored. This isn’t about politics; it’s about the safety and well-being of our citizens. We must safeguard their right to personal dignity and stop sacrificing them on the altar under the guise of political correctness. I urge Premier Ford and all members of parliament to implement common-sense legislation before it’s too late. I am certain that neither Premier Ford nor any other parliamentarian want to change in spaces with children, let alone children of the opposite sex, and if you do then your values will become questionable. Our citizens absolutely deserve to be safe and our children protected, and we cannot allow this misguided policy to continue With all of the bullying, intimidation, threats, attacks on my character, sexual harassment, and psychological harassment that I have had to endure, and the corruption, collusion, and what I consider bribery that I have witnessed, I have suggested that all members of the council be investigated for wrongdoing. Yet not a single member—not even the mayor—would second that motion. What does that tell you? It’s very telling when those who cry the loudest about integrity refuse to have their own actions scrutinized. If they have nothing to hide, why didn’t they support an investigation? The silence from council speaks volumes. We are also witnessing a troubling trend of our city catering to special interest groups at the expense of our own procedures and bylaws, principles of fairness, and equality. Time and again, procedures and bylaws have been selectively enforced or outright ignored to serve the agendas of a few, rather than the common good. Rules for me, but not for thee. This selective enforcement has not only broken the trust between the government and the people but has also erode the rule of law in our city. Over the past few months, my mayor and fellow councillors have been participating in a downright dangerous game to lobby the provincial government to change the Municipal Act so they can remove a sitting elected member. This is a direct attack on democracy, where the people—not politicians—should have the power to decide who represents them. If this change is allowed, it opens the door to unchecked abuse of power, where dissenting voices can be silenced at will. It’s a blatant attempt to consolidate control and eliminate opposition, turning our councils into echo chambers for those in power. It's not only happening in Pickering but in other municipalities, and any elected official pushing for this should step down immediately for betraying the very democratic process they were elected to protect. This move isn’t just undemocratic; it’s authoritarian. We must fiercely oppose any effort to strip the people of their right to have a voice and to choose their leaders. Our duty is to serve, not to rule. It is also disgraceful to see politicians at all levels of government using name-calling and shameful rhetoric to silence and intimidate those who dare to speak up. These tactics are designed to stop people from expressing their concerns and to create an environment of fear. Let me be absolutely clear—this disgraceful behavior starts at the top with Trudeau and you, Premier Ford. You've set the tone, and now my mayor and fellow councillors think it’s perfectly acceptable to stoop to your level and It’s no wonder that this garbage has trickled down to fake Facebook accounts and keyboard warriors who think they can hide behind screens and hurl insults without consequence to those with opposing views within our communities. You’ve all set a shameful example. It is absolutely appalling to see my fellow politicians behave this way spreading vile rhetoric to silence and intimidate anyone who dares to oppose them and speak their truth. These pathetic tactics are nothing but a coward's way to stifle free speech and breed fear. Only spineless cowards hide behind such childish nonsense. Real leaders engage in real conversations, they listen, and they address issues with respect and integrity. Those who stoop to name-calling and character assassination have no place in leadership. If Politicians can’t uphold thedignity of their office, then step down. Because this kind of toxic behavior is a stain on our democracy, and we are better than that. I have personally faced relentless bullying, intimidation, and threats from my mayor and fellow councilors, including financial sanctions, name-calling, and persistent lies attacking my character—all because I am standing up for what is right – just like I am here today. But these are not just attacks on me; they are attacks on the very principles of integrity, honesty, and accountability that should guide all Politicians actions. In my opinion, our municipality, like many others, needs to be torn down and rebuilt, giving power back to the people, where it rightfully belongs. And The rot doesn’t stop at our city councils, provincial, federal government, or other institutions. Historically, Canada had defamation laws and journalistic standards that aimed to prevent the spread of false information. However, with the rise of digital media and the push for sensationalism, these standards have eroded, allowing biased and misleading reports to flourish. The CBC and other journalists have become a disgrace, promoting rumors using clickbait titles instead of investigating the truth. They have become another group paid to report certain narratives that fit their agenda, rather than the facts. This is not journalism—it is sensationalism, or if I may be so crude to say BS, and it’s nothing other than a betrayal of the public’s trust. I call on Premier Ford to bring back Legislation that demands accurate reporting by all journalists based on facts and hold media accountable for their role in spreading misinformation. I would also like to ask Premier Ford, to have a serious conversation with Prime Minister Trudeau about the millions of dollars being funneled into the CBC. This government funding looks more like bribery than support for unbiased journalism. If we're truly committed to media transparency and integrity, we need to stop propping up an organization that increasingly serves as a mouthpiece rather than a check on power. Let's put an end to this questionable financial relationship and restore faith in our public institutions. It is also disheartening to see how DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives, which were intended to foster inclusivity, have instead become sources of division and exclusion. Globally, DEI policies are being banned as they are increasingly recognized for their counterproductive effects—fostering division rather than unity and indoctrinating individuals to adhere to a specific narrative. In Pickering, DEI is being enforced across all areas of the corporation, including the hiring process, which is deeply troubling. Such policies should not lead to discrimination based on skin color, religious beliefs, or sexual preferences. I was the only one who voted against its implementation because, as a leader, I recognize the importance of seeing what everyone else can see but I can think differently and question if what is being presented is universally beneficial or not. Our approach must reflect true inclusivity, promoting equality and respect for all individuals. The solution is straightforward: treat everyone equally and fairly based on merit and character, united under the red and white flag of our country—the Canadian flag. We should not be segregating people into groups by the colour of their skin, religious beliefs, or sexual preferences which are only designed to divide us. This approach will ensure that our policies genuinely serve the common good rather than creating new forms of exclusion. It’s our duty as politicians to remain in a state of neutrality and not cause division by a hierarchy of beliefs and chaos. This is not about being left or right—it is about what is right and what is wrong. It is about common sense for common people. The name-calling we see from politicians at all levels of government used to silence and shame those who dare to speak up, is disgusting. Only cowards hide behind such childish rhetoric, not leaders. And those who engage in it should apologize or step down, for they are not fit to lead. Our municipalities need to be torn down and rebuilt with integrity, transparency, and respect for the people they serve. We must return power to where it belongs—in the hands of the people Our children deserve to grow up free from political agendas that impose adult issues on them, especially when it comes to making life-altering decisions about their bodies. We cannot allow children to be pressured into choices that involve irreversible hormone blockers or surgeries that remove healthy body parts. These are decisions with lifelong consequences that no child should be forced to make. Let our children be children. Let them learn and grow in an environment of respect, dignity, and safety, where their innocence is preserved and their well-being is prioritized. It's our duty to protect their future, ensuring they have the time and freedom to discover who they are without the weight of adult controversies on their young shoulders. We should be teaching our children that no safe adult will ask them to keep secrets. As for our government claiming transparency and accountability these have become mere buzzwords, not practices. We were not elected to cater to developers, special interest groups or make friends with those with deep pockets following along with the status quo. Yet, we see our leaders doing exactly that, pushing through agendas that benefit the few at the expense of the many. We need to be a government that serves the people, not one that serves itself. We need to be leaders who listen, who act with integrity, and who put the public good above all else. We need to restore transparency, accountability, and trust in our institutions. And we need to stand up to the bullies, the corrupt officials, and the special interest groups who are trying to take away our rights and freedoms This is not a fight I take on lightly, but it is one that must be fought. For the sake of our city, our province, and our country, its people, and future generations to come. We must stand up against this abuse of power, this corruption, and this betrayal of public trust. We must restore integrity and trust in our government, and I am committed to leading that charge. Together, we can bring about the change that is so desperately needed. Serving the people, not ruling them. Strength does not lie in the absence of fear but in the courage to face it head on and rise above it "Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head-On And Rise Above It"

From Renting to Home Ownership

By Theresa Grant Real Estate Columnist Home ownership can seem like an impossible dream for some, and others have it on their must achieve by a certain age, list. As with all things in life, it’s better to know all the ins and outs of attaining home ownership so you can make an informed decision as to whether or not it’s for you. What will you need and where do you start? Well, if you have family members or a close friend that could share their journey to home ownership with you, that is great. If, however you don’t, it’s always best to consult with a professional. A Realtor, a Mortgage Broker, or a Financial Services agent, can all help you map out a plan to home ownership. Very often the institution that you bank with will be more than happy to set you up with a free consultation to discuss what exactly you are looking to achieve and then help you to get started on the exciting path to home ownership. The two biggest things needed are an income that will comfortably cover not just your mortgage but all of your expenses, and a good credit rating. The lending institution will look at how much you make versus how much you owe to creditors. This is called the debt service ratio. There are two calculations when lenders are running the numbers. They first look at your income as it relates to covering the mortgage, property taxes and the heating of the property. If you are wanting to purchase a condo, half of the condo fees are also included in this calculation. This initial figure cannot exceed 39% of your income. The second calculation is more encompassing. It involves all of your debts like car loan, line of credit, credit cards, anything you have financing on. Given that this calculation is broader and takes everything into account, it stands to reason that his number would be higher. This number comes in at 44% of your income. These figures are based on Canada Mortgage and Housing guidelines. Take a look at your credit report. If it’s good, then just keep doing what you’ve been doing. If it’s less than stellar, there are a few things that may be affecting it negatively that you can change. Making your payments on time is a big one. Creditors like to see that you take the repayment of your debt seriously and make your payments responsibly. Utilization of your available credit is another big one. If a lender sees that you are almost maxed out on your cards, even if you pay them every month, it tells the lender you rely on the cards heavily. The more you can pay down on your loans and cards, the higher your score will go. It can be a good idea to sit down a year or so before you want to purchase and make a check list. It could look like this, pay off the lowest balance of at least one credit card. Make sure all payments over the next year are on time. Do not take any new credit cards or loans out over the next year. Pay off anything you can but leave the account open. The reason you leave the account open is because it shows lenders that you have the credit available to you, but you don’t need to utilize it. You will need a down payment. That will be whatever you can save after paying all of your expenses. Often people will move from their nice large apartment with all the amenities, to a much smaller space with no amenities to be able to save for a down payment for a year or two. The minimum requirement for a down payment in Ontario is 5% of the purchase price of the home. There are many things to take into consideration when it comes to home ownership and how to attain it. Listen, ask questions, and always consult a professional. Questions? Column ideas? You can email me at newspaper@ocentral.com

When In The Course…

When In The Course… from Wayne & Tamara I was 20 when I married a wonderful guy who is 12 years older than me. He was so mature I thought he must be the wisest man in the world. There was no need for me to study or follow a career because he would be a good provider. All I had to be was his pretty wife and give him children. Almost 15 years later I am left with two wonderful children and so much bitterness in my heart I sometimes feel life is not worth living. Over the last nine years he has been unemployed for months and changed jobs seven times. On his last job he was drinking most of the time and fell into depressions and aggressions until it came to a stage where the children and I were afraid of him. All this time I was the provider of the family and worked very hard in unhappy circumstances just to keep the family alive. I finally realized I had to do something for the sake of my children and myself. I asked my husband for a divorce. He refused. Months later I made another attempt for a separation. I think he realized I meant it, and somehow he found a wonderful job within two weeks. His personality changed again. He stopped drinking and in general is nice to me and the children. My problem is I do not know how to change my feelings. I no longer respect him. I am almost willing to say I've started to hate him. Although he is nice at the moment, I cannot bring myself to trust or love him again. I tell myself for the sake of the children I should stay with him, but I am battling even to be nice to him. Whatever he does annoys me. I wish he would just find another girlfriend and disappear out of our lives. He says he isn't willing to go to counseling since he is not the one with the problem. Can time heal my unhappiness? Barbara Barbara, before they declared their independence, the American colonies were generous in supporting the British crown. Of their own volition the colonies sent more revenue than the mother country required. Despite this the king and parliament imposed one burdensome tax after another on the colonies. Perhaps the most infuriating of these was the 1765 Stamp Act, which imposed a tax on every scrap of paper of record. Even playing cards and dice were taxed. These taxes were imposed not for the benefit of the colonies, but "for improving the revenue of the kingdom." The result was that every act of the British crown became viewed with wariness, suspicion and mistrust. A few years later, when the East India Company was stuck with thousands of tons of unsold tea, laws were passed in England to allow the sale of cheap tea to the American colonies. Although parliament bypassed American distributors, this action would have resulted in cheaper tea and benefited most people in America. But the colonists would have none of it. In New York and Philadelphia ships carrying tea were turned back to England. In Charleston tea rotted on the docks. And in Boston people staged the famous Boston Tea Party. Dozens of men disguised as Mohawk Indians dumped a shipload of Darjeeling tea into the harbor. There comes a time when it is too late to change the course of human events, and then a revolution which need not have occurred, does occur. Usually when we get a letter like yours, it is written by a man. The writer begins by admitting he neglected and mistreated his wife for years, and then explains he has changed. The writer concludes by saying his wife will have none of it. Why? Because like the American colonists, she has had enough. She has issued her own declaration of independence. Wayne & Tamara SEND LETTERS TO: Directanswers@WayneAndTamara.com Wayne & Tamara are the authors of Cheating in a Nutshell and The Young Woman’s Guide to Older Men—available from Amazon, Apple, and booksellers everywhere.

A Hot Problem in the City

By W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford Do you know the new problem that is starting to kill some people? It’s not a viral disease, but it’s spreading in very hot climates. Caring pet owners protect their dogs from it, but some people are not taking the same precautions. What’s the trouble? It’s third-degree burns that result from contact with hot pavement. Our sidewalks are becoming deadly! Climate change is creating environmental extremes. Floods for some. Fires for others. And in some cities, there are growing numbers of people suffering severe burns from contact with excessively hot outdoor surfaces. The statistics show that not only are more such burns occurring each year, but more people are dying from very large and deep burns caused by prolonged contact with hot sidewalk pavement. The New York Times reported on a case in Las Vegas. A man, having had a few too many drinks at his favourite bar, passed out on a sidewalk during the day as temperatures rose to 109ºF. He woke up in hospital with severe burns, and not only to his skin. He suffered third-degree burns that scorched deep into the underlying muscle and bone. Treatment for his burns required several weeks in hospital and multiple operations to salvage damaged tissue. For a few drinks, it was a huge price to pay. There are other examples where alcohol wasn’t a factor. One elderly man tripped and fell on stones in his own backyard. He badly scorched his hands, forearms, and legs in trying to get himself up. Another person had the same problem, not due to age but to excessive weight. The pavement was so hot that summertime clothing did little to alleviate the scorching intense heat. Cries for help brought bystanders, but the damaged was done. This person also received dangerous burns requiring hospitalization, surgeries, and a very painful process of recovery. Children as also falling victim. For example, toddlers don’t realize how hot door handles can get or even car seats in the sun, and they don’t have well-developed withdrawal reflexes. In the blink of an eye, babies can crawl from cool grass or safe playground surfaces onto hot pavement, or from a beach towel onto blistering hot sand. They may not cry until after a damaging burn occurs. People with diabetes comprise another category of victims. Their damaged nerves and poor circulation, especially in their feet, increase the risk of burns from walking barefoot on hot concrete and not feeling pain. Amputation is the only possible treatment for ten per cent of diabetics who burn their feet. How many people fail to think of their pet’s paws on hot asphalt. Do this simple test. If you can’t hold the back of your hand for seven seconds on the sidewalk, then it’s too hot for your dog. We will all need to be more careful about burns from hot pavement. But don’t forget about where burns remain most common and preventable. That’s in the kitchen. Use your common sense, as nearly everyone can identify the risks. Young children should not be near the stove. Older people need to make adjustments when cooking. Among seniors, burns are the second leading injury at home after falls. So don’t attempt to carry pots and hot dishes that are too heavy to handle safely. And don’t wear loose clothing that can catch fire, especially at a gas-burning stove. What can be done about that scorching pavement? Let’s start by not building more and more of it. Cities and subdivisions will continue to expand. But we need to use better design with more greenery, and a lot less concrete and asphalt. 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

“EXPOSED” - MUNICIPAL Councils Are Working Against Constituents S-O-S, S-O-S - PEOPLE OF ONTARIO PAY ATTENTION TO THIS ALERT

EXPOSED - YOUR MUNICIPAL MAYORS & COUNCILLORS ACROSS ONTARIO ARE PLOTTING TO DEPRIVE YOU, THE PEOPLE OF YOUR DEMOCRATIC RIGHTS. YES, the Municipal Councils, the people you elected, are working against you, the public. They want the right to have a council member fired from council, they also want the right to have that person who you elected, banned from running in the next election, why? So you the people can’t vote that person back in. In other words, municipal councils want the right to deny you the public your democratic right to who you can vote for. This is the First Step in Killing Democracy. Ontario Municipal Councils have been writing the AMO (association of municipalities of Ontario) which is an elected board consisting of members from the different municipalities of Ontario. The Municipal Councils are begging the AMO to have Premier Doug Ford amend Bill 5, re the ‘Municipal Act 2001’ to allow Municipal Councils to fire a colleague (one of your elected members), and to do it by having the Integrity Commissioner be the one to say a council member should be fired there by absolving the council of being the ones doing the firing. The council will tell you the public that they didn’t fire your elected member. Just another way of hiding by covering the eyes of the public with half truths. The real question is, why would a council want or need to fire an elected colleague? Crimes, sexual harassment, harassment & abuse etc all have ways to be dealt with, example, Human Rights, Criminal Courts etc. Could it be that the fellow elected members, who does not follow the council’s agenda, who does not rubber stamp things but actually works in favour of the people is showing up the rest of the council and exposing what’s happening? I have to wonder? Who are these council members that are running your municipality, who are making decisions that affect your life, your city, town or community,? Who are theses councils who want the right to fire a colleague, an elected member? Do these municipal councils know anything about democracy? If they do not know the difference between a hired employee (staff) by a business -vs- a person elected by the people, then should they really be running your municipality? PEOPLE IT’S TIME, STAND & SPEAK UP FOR YOUR RIGHTS, KEEP DEMOCRACY ALIVE Email Premier Doug Ford at both ….. premier@ontario.ca and correspondence.premier.gov.on.ca Email AMO, Pres Colin Best at ….. amopresident@amo.on.ca Email the city clerk of your municipality (call your council office and get the clerks email and tell the clerk to copy every member of council with your email.) Write the following to the Premier, the AMO and your Municipal Council, let them know how you feel. 1. How dare municipal councils ask for this right to fire an elected person. Only we, the public (voters) have the right to fire an elected member and we will do this in the next election by using our democratic right to vote for our choice. 2. Tell them you are watching and that their voting and decisions will have a direct way on how you vote in any upcoming elections. Citizens of Ontario and Canada, Your “Silence Solves Nothing” It’s Time for Action, to Stand Up For Your Rights Before They Are Gone

Beware the fraudsters!

By Thersa Grant/Real Estate Columnist We’ve all heard the heart wrenching stories of people who’ve been duped out of several hundred or a few thousand dollars by unscrupulous fraudsters advertising properties for rent that they do not own. How does one protect themselves so that they do not fall victim to such a scam? It can be difficult, as these fraudsters have become somewhat advanced over the years, in terms of how they advertise. With the introduction of artificial intelligence it will only get more difficult to discern fact from fiction. There are generally two types of rental fraud out there. The first is someone renting a unit briefly and advertising it as a long term rental, while pretending to be the Landlord. In this situation, the perpetrator will take first and last month’s rent from someone, along with a key deposit of a few hundred dollars, a damage deposit, in some cases an upcharge for parking or other things. This can total several thousand dollars. The second and perhaps more easily detectable is the situation whereby a property is advertised, it looks amazing and is being offered at a ridiculously low rent. When someone contacts the supposed owner of this property, they are told that the owners, often a couple, are on a mission with their church and out of the country currently. In some cases, they are told that the supposed owners have had some sort of family emergency and are out of the country. They are told stories that would make the average person think they are dealing with a kind, generous, compassionate person. When in reality they are dealing with the exact opposite. In this scenario, the entire transaction takes place online. Money is sent to the fictious owner of the property in advance. The would-be tenants are shown beautiful pictures of what they will be renting, told a story of how they will be helping the owners, just by living there and taking care of this property for them while they are out of the country. They are told that the keys will be ready for them on moving day. There is usually a family member of caretaker going to drop off the keys, but they cannot get there at the moment as they live out of town. They are led to believe that they are part of some amazing win- win situation. These fraudsters prey on people. They take advantage of people’s sense of hope. Everyone likes a bargain. Everyone is looking the for the best deal they can get. Everyone needs a home. We’ve all heard the saying, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. That is the truth. However, people will always hope against hope that maybe, just this once, this is the real deal. It usually never is. There are a few things you can do to protect yourself. First of all, never ever send money in advance of viewing a property in person. Google the address of the place for rent. Google the name of the person calling themselves the Landlord. Although it may seem unusual or even uncomfortable, ask the person purporting to be the Landlord for some kind of identification. Landlords are acutely aware of the degree of fraud taking place in the rental market today. Most would not be offended or insulted by making such a request. If you are on site, look around and ask questions. Landlords are happy to answer your questions because they are looking for the right tenants. Scam artists don’t like questions, they will try to rush you, and make you feel as though if you don’t act now, you may lose out on this amazing property. They will often say that you need to act fast because there are several people wanting this space. Keep in mind, great spaces at reasonable prices don’t need to be forced or pushed on people. If you are feeling pressured in any way, let that speak volumes. Heed your inner voice and remove yourself from the situation, with your money still in your bank account. If you find yourself caught up in a fraudulent rental scam, contact your local authorities to report the incident. Questions? Story ideas? You may reach me at: email newspaper@ocentral.com

Three Rules For a Hollywood-Ending Job Search

By Nick Kossovan You can increase your chances of a "Hollywood ending," to your job search, however, you can't guarantee it. Some years back, a late afternoon on New Year's Eve. My phone rang as I walked along the newly snow-plowed sidewalk to my home. After three months of back-and-forth with a financial service provider, my to-be boss was calling me to tell me I got the job. What a way to end 2013! Then there was the time I was given the "you're no longer a fit" speech, which I knew was coming. (TIP: Learn to read the room.) As I was packing, a company I'd been interviewing with—as I said, I knew what was coming—called, hiring me to manage their customer service department. Within 10 minutes, I'd call my wife to tell her I had lost my job and then call her back to tell her I got a new one. Always be reading the room. Always be looking. I've had several Hollywood-ending job searches, not quite "a dream job offer, champagne celebration, and living happily ever after," but very close. Based on my experience, a "Hollywood-ending" job search can be moderately orchestrated, but only to a certain extent, the main influencing factors being: Establishing yourself as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) through a compelling personal brand, LinkedIn profile, resume, cover letter, and digital footprint. Actively networking and building relationships. Interviewing skillfully and leaving an impression that makes your interviewer say, "We need [your name]!" Negotiating an attractive compensation package. Feeling a genuine sense of excitement about your new job. Fade out "The End" Role credits However, external factors such as economic conditions, employer priorities, and ubiquitous "hiring manager's preferences" influence the aforementioned influencing factors. It would be naive to believe getting a job offer doesn't involve some element of luck. Ultimately, you can increase your chances of a "Hollywood ending," but you can't fully orchestrate or guarantee it. All you can do is put in the work, remain flexible, and be open to unexpected opportunities. While your job search should be characterized by positivity and persistence, remember that a degree of luck plays a role in your job search, as it does throughout your life. Share I attribute my experiencing several Hollywood-ending job searches to having conducted my job searches by adhering to the following rules: Think for yourself. The Internet, especially LinkedIn, is populated by self-proclaimed job search experts—talking heads—who are willing to take your money for information you can find for free. I've yet to come across a "job search expert" or "career coach" who doesn't offer rehashed cookie-cutter advice. Following the same advice as other job seekers will not differentiate you in today's hyper-competitive job market. Thinking for yourself, a practice that is decreasing—following and looking for shortcuts are easier—will. Because I learn by doing, I advocate DIY job searching. In addition to saving money, DIY job searching is how you learn and develop job searching skills, which, as layoffs have become the norm, is a crucial career management skill. I attribute much of my job search and career success to thinking critically—evaluating the pros and cons against my needs and wants—avoiding groupthink, exploring unconventional paths, charting my job search course and most importantly, trusting my instincts. Nobody knows me better than me. Rocky, Whiplash, Ford v Ferrari, The Founder, and Steve Jobs are just a fraction of the many Hollywood movies where the protagonist walks their own path while thinking for themselves and ends up achieving their end goal(s). Know what you can and can't control. A recipe for frustration: Trying to control what isn't yours to control. Long ago, I accepted that employers own their businesses and, therefore, own their hiring process. Instead of obsessing over (read: wasting time and energy) how employers hire, which many job seekers do, I shrug my shoulders and say to myself, "If that's how they want to run their business, then so be it," and move on. Accepting that you can't control how employers hire will improve your frame of mind. Acknowledge your limitations. "A man's got to know his limitations." - Inspector Harry Callahan (Clint Eastwood) in Magnum Force. Another reason many job seekers are frustrated is that they aren't acknowledging their limitations (e.g., skills gaps, lack of experience). Life's harshest truism is that none of us are equal biologically, genetically and at an intelligence level. Biology is the root reason why “life isn't fair." Therefore, let go of the belief life should be played on an even playing field. At the onset of my career, I was frustrating myself by trying to compete against those with inborn aptitude or affinity—I call them naturals—for the jobs I was aiming for. It wasn't until I acknowledged and accepted my limitations and my naturals that my job search results improved, and my career started heading in the right direction. A sense of self-awareness, combined with critical thinking, has given me the smarts to target roles and employers suited to my capabilities and present myself authentically and confidently; after all, I'm in my wheelhouse. Take it from me, humility and honesty lead to better job search results and sometimes to a "happy ending" worthy of the silver screen. ________________________________________________________________ Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned veteran of the corporate landscape, offers advice on searching for a job. You can send him your questions at artoffindingwork@gmail.com

My friends neighbours, and fellow citizens

By Lisa Robinson My friends, neighbours, and fellow citizens, We stand at a pivotal moment in our community’s history. It is a moment where we must decide who we are, what we stand for, and how we will shape the future for ourselves and generations to come. For too long, politics has been dominated by those who serve themselves before serving the people. We’ve seen corruption seep into the very fabric of our institutions, leaving too many of us feeling powerless, unheard, and disillusioned. The voices of the people, the everyday hard-working citizens who make our community thrive, have too often been drowned out by the noise of self-interest and backroom deals. But today, I stand before you to say: Enough is enough. We deserve better. We deserve leaders who are willing to fight for the common good, who are guided by common sense, and who understand the struggles and hopes of the common people. I am here not just as a politician but as one of you—a member of this community who knows what it’s like to worry about paying the bills, finding a safe place for our children to play, and making sure there’s enough food on the table. I know the frustration of seeing our tax dollars wasted on projects that benefit the few while our schools, hospitals, and public services suffer. But I also know the strength and resilience of this community. I’ve seen it in our neighbours helping neighbours, in our local businesses lifting each other up, and in the voices that refuse to be silenced in the face of injustice. And no matter our differences, we are united under one banner—the Canadian flag. A flag that represents the values we hold dear: fairness, equality, and justice for all. It reminds us that we are stronger together, bound by a shared commitment to build a brighter future for every Canadian. I believe in a politics that puts people first—where the needs of our families, our workers, and our seniors take precedence over the interests of the powerful. I believe in transparency, accountability, and integrity. And I believe that together, we can build a government that truly serves the people. But I can’t do it alone. I need your help. Together, we must stand up against the corruption that has taken root in our political system. We must demand that our leaders act with honesty and fairness. We must hold them accountable when they fail us, and we must work tirelessly to ensure that our government reflects the values of our community. I promise you this: I will always stand up for what is right, even when it’s difficult. I will listen to your concerns and make sure your voices are heard. I will fight for a future where our children can grow up in a world that is fairer, more just, and filled with opportunity. This is our moment. This is our fight. Let’s stand together, united in our determination to bring about real change. Let’s reject the politics of division, corruption, and cynicism. Let’s build a future where we can all thrive, proud to be Canadians, and proud to stand together beneath the red and white of our flag. And when future generations look back on this time, let them say that we were the ones who stood up, who spoke out, and who made a difference. Let them say that we were the ones who fought for a better, fairer, and more just world. Thank you. Thank you for your trust, your support, and your belief in the power of the people. Together, we will create the future we all deserve—united as Canadians, and as a community God Bless "Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head-On And Rise Above It"

Life Is A Beach

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 - How times have changed. I remember as a kid going to the beach and looking for the many flags posted along the coast line. Green meant low surf, yellow medium surf, red meant do not go in. The biggest danger was that if you swam during a red flag that there was a good chance you get pulled out to ocean. For those wondering. I was born in Uruguay, South America. A place where clouds are as rare as ugly women. The beach was a great place to sit around and sun tan. Take a swim in the salty ocean water. Now don’t get me wrong. On the occasion they would post double red flags... this was normally due to flooding up the Rio De LaPlata that connected to the Amazon, hundreds of miles to the north in Brazil. When it would flood. The access water would run off into the Oshawa with severe force. At times taking all kinds of animals with it. Including snakes and all kind of God’s creatures. Most would die once they hit the salt water... As a journalist, I sit here in Canada and read all the beach closings. My first thoughts, snakes, caimans (alligators)... I remember the red flags warning of high surf and danger of being taken out to the ocean. No, instead. Here in Canada, we have to worry about catching something from the so called fresh water lake. We have to worry about needles, cigarette buts and as reported in Wassaga beach human excrement buried in the not so white sand. Now, don’t get me wrong. I am a proud Canadian. I am not complaining about Canada. I am complaining at the deterioration of the quality of our water. Red flag or beach closure here could technically mean you will catch some sort fungal infection. Let’s look beyond the algae, the bio-hazard material in our so called pure fresh water lakes... This is the same water we drink. This is the same water we bathe. This is the same water we pee and poo in. This is the same water that when you die they drain your blood into. Surely, they purify it.... The question in my mind. How long, how many times can you purify waste water before it you are just purifying waste. Drinking waste, bathing in waste? Tricky question. Scientist would argue... you can do that forever... Well, I am hard press to believe that. Think about it. The liquid may be the same. The composition similar. But much like in the human DNA. Does exposure over time not change it’s fundamental building blocks. We are humans. We are composed of the same compound with the DNA coding that makes who we are. Then let’s ask this question. If we are what we were. They why do we have so many different weakness in our immune system. In our ability to fight off disease? Society you say? I say malarkey.

Canada's defence capabilities in crisis in this uncertain world.

by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East I have discussed some problems related to National Defence in the past, but I cannot resist doing so again.This time I'm addressing the continued lack of interest the Canadian political establishmenthas shown in this crucial topic. As aMember of Parliament for four and a half years who served on Parliament's National Defence Committee,I feel that National Defence issues were treated superficially and with a lack of genuine interest. There are signs everywhere that the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are in deep crisis. The foremost is our Forces' lack of military capability and capacity compared to Canada's close allies. The Canadian Armed Forces have been neglected for decadesthrough poor recruiting, lack of personnel, and the inadequate supply of suitable and modern equipment. Today Canada is only able to contribute token units to continental defence, not to mention any foreign contingency. A key part of the capability challenge involves an antiquated, inefficient and costly procurement system that often delivers equipment years late, at inordinate cost;equipment that is less effective than what is available on the market. Furthermore, the military's capabilities and capacity are hampered by a dire personnel situation within the CAF. Many key positions are at half of the authorized staffing and populated with inefficient and poorly qualified public servants. Finally, there are the issues surrounding the utilization of the military, including over-deployment and ineffective and/or counterproductive uses which illustrate a highly inefficient army leadership unable to stand up to undue political pressure. It is also sad to see the deflection of huge monetary resources to costly and adventurous projects overseas instead of the fortification and modernization of our own armed forces for our nation's protection and security in this uncertain world. Today we see more and more evidence of deeper systemic problems that afflict the Department of National Defence (DND) and defence policymaking due to gross neglectperpetuated for years by both major Canadian political parties. The political establishmentfailedto properly resolveemerging problems,because they only usedsuperficial reform measures to treat the symptoms of decay over the past fifty years. Many of the reforms implemented over the years focused on secondary consequences rather than addressing the root causes of these challenges. In many ways, this approach has steadily deteriorated DND's capabilities, subsequently causing an intensification of the problems they were trying to solve. So here, we are today,thus incapacitated,facing major issues. At the end of the day, is it all aboutthe money? Many have pointed to the decades of underfunding experienced by the military as the primary cause of the mess the country finds itself in. However, itis notthat simple. Certainly providing more budget stability would help immensely, as National Defence is currently struggling through another round of budget cuts, led by a "yes sir" inefficient Minister. Yet it would be too simple to attribute the situation solely to budgets.In some respects, they too, are merely a symptom of the deeper issues afflicting defence. The issues are reflective ofthe severe lack of technical knowledge from which defence and government officials suffer. The lack of skilled staff members has corrosive consequences across the entire organization: incorrect decisions, inaccurate estimates, and a slowing of decision-making are all hallmarks of this problem. Unfortunately, I witnessed all these realities during my service in the military and the House of Commons. The core issue with National Defence in Canada,and arguably the most important one,concerns accountability, authority, and leadership. A persistent lack of accountability all the way to the top, including non-elected and elected officials, has created an inability to implement decisions quickly. In normal times,public servants in government departments would adhere strictly to policy and consensus-based decision-making that effectively requires the views of all players,including the supposedly knowledgeable elected officials around the table, to be aired and addressed quickly and efficiently. However, during years of exponentially increased incompetence, this process has become an extremely costly joke for taxpayers, and is now seriously endangering the safety and security of the country.Sadly,there is daily evidence that this circus continues with impunity with no end in sight. Operating an effective military requires acknowledging the uniqueness of employing deadly force and sustaining the personnel and equipment necessary to achieve that aim. Culturally, the military relies heavily on individual leadership within a chain of command to achieve its objectives. This is fundamentally different from any other department or the public service. We must acknowledge that there is an urgent need to elevate true leaders both in the military and the civil service dedicated to the military, and provide them with the requisite tools and authority tomanage programs in a timely and cost effective manner. All participants must "work the process" and build consensus with governmental stakeholders effectively and efficiently, withouttaking weeks months or years to achieve the objective. For example, the Conservative Government of Canada was ready to sign the agreement for the F 35 aircraftin 2015, but indecision and wobbling on the part of that government cost taxpayers dearly. Ten years laterthe Liberal Government of Canada, which hypocritically opposed the deal originally, signed it, spending substantially more, andsignificantly delaying delivery in crucial and dangerous geopolitical times. It should be noted that the government approach is fundamentally different from best practices in the private sector, where authority tends to adhere more closely to the military model than the public service one. This must change radically and immediately because we cannot afford more mistakes in a time of drastically increasing dangers on the international scene. At the present time too many people, with any particular agenda, are able to derail the department's objectives. Also, when things go wrong-as they so often do in Canada when it comes to procurement-the blame is dispersed so no one is held ultimately responsible, and nothing is fundamentally changed. It is necessary to implement a process that dilute neither accountability nor throws up roadblocks based on strictly artificial bureaucratic perspectives. Any comprehensive reform effort must address these points. Doing so would result in major aspects of defence falling into place-personnel management, procurement, budgets, etc. If Canada is to fix its national defence and reach the incredible potential of its capabilities, it must grapple with the root causes of the problems it is facing. Let's hope we see improvement soon!

Delusional Thinking in Today's World: A Growing Concern

By Dale Jodoin Canada is currently facing a disturbing and growing trend: the deliberate burning and vandalism of Christian churches. Since May 2021, 33 churches across the country have been destroyed by fire, with 24 of these confirmed as arson. In addition to these devastating fires, another 96 churches have been vandalized, with acts ranging from graffiti and broken windows to the desecration of religious symbols. This wave of attacks is raising serious concerns about the safety of religious institutions in Canada and what it might mean for the future of the country. The numbers paint a grim picture. Of the 33 churches that have been reduced to ashes, nearly three-quarters were intentionally set on fire. The remaining fires are still under investigation, but the sheer scale of these incidents suggests that many of them may also be cases of arson. What is particularly alarming is that these attacks have not been limited to any specific region. Churches in both urban centers and rural communities have been targeted, showing that this is a nationwide issue. Beyond the fires, the widespread vandalism of churches adds another layer of concern. With 96 churches across the country suffering damage, the attacks have become almost routine in some areas. Vandalism includes everything from offensive graffiti to broken windows and smashed religious artifacts. In some cases, there were attempts to set fires that were thankfully extinguished before they could cause significant damage. These incidents contribute to an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among religious communities, particularly in small towns where churches often serve as the heart of the community. The reasons behind these attacks are complex and multifaceted. In some cases, they may be linked to anger over historical injustices or social issues. However, the sheer number of incidents suggests that there may be other factors at play. One possible explanation is the growing polarization within Canadian society. As divisions deepen over social and political issues, some individuals or groups may feel that targeting religious institutions is a way to express their anger or make a statement. This kind of thinking can lead to dangerous and destructive behavior. Another factor that may be contributing to the rise in attacks is the phenomenon of copycat crimes. When a crime receives a lot of attention, it can inspire others to commit similar acts, believing that they are part of a larger movement. The frequency of church attacks in Canada raises the possibility that some of these incidents are copycat crimes, with individuals mimicking what they have seen in the news or on social media. The lack of consequences for these crimes is also a serious concern. Out of the 24 confirmed cases of arson, arrests have been made in only nine instances. This means that in most cases, the individuals responsible for these devastating fires have not been caught. This lack of accountability can create a sense of impunity, where criminals believe that they can commit these acts without fear of being punished. If this perception takes hold, it could lead to even more attacks in the future. Another issue is the security of churches, particularly those in rural areas or small communities. Many of these churches do not have the resources to implement strong security measures, making them easy targets for criminals. Without increased protection, these churches remain vulnerable to future attacks. This is a significant concern, especially for communities that rely on their local church as a place of worship, gathering, and support. Given the scale and severity of these attacks, one might expect them to receive widespread media coverage and public attention. However, this has not been the case. The issue of church burnings and vandalism has not been as widely reported as one might expect, and there are several reasons for this. One reason is that the media often focuses on stories that are immediately impactful or sensational. While the destruction of churches is undoubtedly tragic, it may not generate the same level of immediate public interest as other news stories, such as major political events or natural disasters. Another reason is the sensitive nature of the underlying issues. The targeting of churches touches on complex and politically sensitive topics, including religion, cultural heritage, and social justice. Media outlets may be reluctant to delve deeply into these topics for fear of alienating segments of their audience or provoking backlash. This cautious approach can lead to less coverage of these incidents, even as they continue to occur. There is also a growing concern that violence against certain groups or symbols is becoming normalized. When violent acts happen frequently, people can become desensitized to them, meaning they don’t find them as shocking anymore. If society starts to see these attacks as just another part of the news, they may not pay as much attention, and the media might not cover them as much. This normalization could lead to a dangerous cycle where such acts are seen as less shocking and more acceptable forms of protest or expression. Furthermore, Canada has been grappling with a host of other significant issues, including the COVID-19 pandemic, economic challenges, and political controversies. In this context, the ongoing attacks on churches may be overshadowed by these more pressing concerns. As a result, the full extent of this trend may not be fully recognized or addressed. The implications of these attacks are serious and far-reaching. The destruction of religious institutions not only threatens the safety and security of faith communities but also challenges the values of tolerance and respect that are foundational to Canadian society. If these attacks continue unchecked, they may contribute to a climate of fear and mistrust, further polarizing communities and undermining social cohesion. Moreover, the failure to adequately address this trend could signal a weakening of the rule of law, where certain groups or symbols are seen as legitimate targets for violence. This could lead to an increase in similar crimes, not just against churches but against other institutions or groups that are seen as controversial or unpopular. To prevent this from happening, urgent action is needed. Law enforcement agencies must prioritize these cases and work to bring those responsible to justice. This will send a clear message that these crimes will not be tolerated and that those who commit them will be held accountable. Additionally, communities must come together to protect their places of worship, whether by investing in better security or by fostering dialogue and understanding to address the underlying issues that may be driving these attacks. The media also has a crucial role to play in raising awareness of these incidents. By bringing more attention to these attacks, the public will be more aware of the issue, which can help prevent future crimes. Increased media coverage can also put pressure on authorities to take action and on communities to come together in support of one another. In conclusion, the rise in arson and vandalism targeting churches in Canada is a disturbing trend that cannot be ignored. These attacks are not just crimes against property; they are crimes against communities and the values of respect and tolerance that are important to Canadian society. If this trend is allowed to continue, it could have serious consequences for the future of the country. Now is the time for action. By working together, Canadians can stop this trend and ensure that places of worship remain safe and respected spaces for everyone.

Jesus Was a Tradesperson

By Murray Strong Jesus was a tradesperson Compulsory Certification is the answer! Canada needs construction workers or the economy stalls. Thousands are retiring from the trades, is a common cry from developers and the media. That is a true fact. Construction giants like Ellis Don or PCL want professionals building those billion dollar projects but the good times are over in construction .These men and women in various skilled trades are walking away into a deserved retirement with all that knowledge. The unions have been trying to warn government for years of this coming disaster. I know Premier Ford is concerned and many other government officials are reading this in the Oshawa Central Newspaper so we have their attention. God is also watching this story to see how we treat his Son . Remember Jesus and his father Joseph where proud to be known in their community as craftsmen. Jesus mother , Mary ,was proud of her son working with his hands . My personal dream would see the world UN convene and declare Jesus and his father Joseph be recognized as Certified Tradesmen. God said to Joseph , I need your son , the apprentice , to help me save the world. His apprenticeship is on hold. Carpenters build the frame all other trades add their equipment to our work. A simple tiny sentence in a tiny file in the Ministry of Labor needs a review . Give carpenters a reason to have pride in their trade . Open the carpenters apprenticeship to Compulsory Certification and inform all construction companies we need quick movement . Employ these young people wanting the job security of a red seal ticket. REOPEN the tec classes in high schools . Those old shop classrooms now sit in dust guarding old worn out furniture. Premier Ford , I would like to address you as Doug in all future rants . TDSB ( Toronto District School Board) has buildings with empty space to set up classrooms . Doug , you know some schools in Toronto have less students , some may have to be closed because the families moved away and seniors bought the homes . What fun would it be as a politician to announce to the community we are closing your school and will bus your children. Day one- angry calls from every voter in the surrounding 10 square miles . Day 2- lawyers. Day 3 - angry protests at your office. Day 4 – the Media hoard asking why? Doug tell those angry residents with children the funding will spread the building costs of operating the school to the skilled trades and the school board. Inform the media your Minister is onboard . The startup money to help the unions and the TDSB , to accelerate this training is waiting in a bank account. Tell them you have asked the construction industry to match the money in your decision. Tell the furious property owners and local businesses you’re going to save their local school by leasing empty space for apprenticeship training and spend their tax dollars in their school. Pour the money into any Ontario school board ready to help. Hire trades as teachers .That’s all you need. Just like Local 27. Remind all developers, it is not Doug Ford or the taxpayers that needs 500000 workers so pay your share. Out of breath. Ending this rant. Thank you. Denny Crane.

Conduct Unbecoming

from Wayne & Tamara My daughter, age 18, became involved with a young man 18 months ago. He was charming, a gentleman, bought her flowers, and showered her with love. He seemed mature, well-mannered, and respectful of us as her parents. He was very vocal to her father and me about the way he felt. He wanted to marry her. Period. He almost talked her into going to a justice of the peace before he left for the Navy, but she wouldn't do anything behind our backs. She was deeply in love with him. She is a good and responsible girl who is now in college. She is also quite beautiful. He left for the Navy. She wrote him every day and flew to see him graduate from boot camp. In the meantime he wrote to her father asking for her hand. We were concerned about their age, but we trusted him. After graduation she flew home, and he started acting weird, like a Mr. Hyde. He drank heavily and avoided her calls. He was rude and accusatory with her. My daughter found out the night he left for boot camp, he cheated on her with another girl who was also on her way to the Navy. The entire time at boot camp he was writing love letters to a third girl. He wanted to marry her, too. He bragged about these conquests. His friend said he would stare at girls with a gaze that wasn't even normal. Come to find out he was in trouble when he lived with his mother in another city. He was wild and stole a car to attend raves in the middle of the night. He took drugs like ecstasy. His mother sent him to his father, a professional who is remarried to a psychiatrist. Step-mom told us he has problems with character, integrity, and truthfulness, and he needs years of therapy. After the deeds were done, of course, my poor daughter was beyond grief. He bragged to her about all the girls he had sex with, including a 14-year-old. Well, daughter is now in college and doing well. She does not act depressed, but she hasn't dated since they broke up. She really, really loved this guy. He hurt us all, not just her. A true wolf in sheep's clothing. This kind of betrayal is so foreign to her, and we also feel violated because we believed this little creep and almost let him marry our daughter. Dora Dora, your entire family has been victimized by "this little creep," and each contact from him is another sadistic abuse of your daughter. He is not trying to win her back. He is victimizing her again and again. As a former naval officer, I know his conduct reflects poorly on the service. The military doesn't need more black eyes. I also know that as a member of the Navy, he is the property of the U.S. government from his toenails to the top of his head. He can be disciplined for getting a sunburn, wearing his hair wrong, or spitting on deck. First, I suggest you write his commanding officer detailing his conduct with your daughter. Include any written correspondence from him to you. Ask his commanding officer to demand that he break off all contact with your daughter. Explain what this boy has been telling her, including having sex with 14-year-olds. Second, your daughter needs to take steps to prevent him from contacting her. Time will help her get over this, but the healing won't start until all contact stops. Your daughter should not give up her values, but she must allow for the realities of this world. There is an age-old conflict between what is and what ought to be. The happiest people in this world pursue their own values, while at the same time clearly seeing what others are capable of. Wayne SEND LETTERS TO: Directanswers@WayneAndTamara.com Wayne & Tamara are the authors of Cheating in a Nutshell and The Young Woman’s Guide to Older Men—available from Amazon, Apple, and booksellers everywhere.

Restoring Hope Is Job One

By W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford It’s happened before, and it was only a matter of time until it happened again. A brutal act of violence against a candidate for political office shatters the hope that reasonable people can exercise the democratic process. As has also happened before, these events cause a surge of short and long-term impacts on the health of society – especially children, teens, and young adults. There’s no escaping the economic cost of violence. Gun violence is just one kind of trauma, costing the U.S. a staggering $557 billion annually according to the National Institute for Health Care Management. What’s behind that gargantuan number? Medical costs are less than $3B. Policing and criminal justice costs add $11B. Employer hits to revenue and productivity are half a billion dollars. These are small change in that $557B figure. But there are two biggies. Income lost due to death and disability, work loss of caregivers, and incarceration costs $53.8 billion on average each year. Quality-of-life costs and the pain and wellbeing lost by those injured or killed and their families amount to a walloping $489 billion annually. These numbers are calculated based on an annual average in the U.S. since 2020 of about 45,000 people dying from gun-related incidents. Now consider the impact of gun violence as witnessed by the world with the assassination attempt on a presidential candidate. Like him or not, Donald Trump is a figure well known to all of us. Every shooting is horrible. But as the statistics above confirm, when it is someone we know, the effects are catastrophic, and it’s the innocent and vulnerable who pay the most. Maybe young adults have the fortitude to avoid negative impacts on their psyche, motivation, confidence, and general outlook. But we can’t find the studies to show it, and there’s not a lot of overt evidence for that. For millions of teens and younger children, one wonders how they internalize these events, the societal shock, then weeks of questioning, and the inevitable barrage of media, much of it depressing. What do these costs amount to for them? Times like this call for bold leadership at the highest levels. But who wants to take up the opportunity in politics? The ideal of shaping a better future through the debate of policies in a democratic system is all but lost. Now, the “wellbeing” calculus is deterring would-be aspirants. The number of young people turning away from the preparation for holding public office is bad enough. What’s alarming is the easy alternative of reckless abandon of the principles that uphold a decent society. Apathy is another sad and likely outcome. Montesquieu was the French judge and political philosopher who took up the leadership challenge. In 1748 with the publication of his book, The Spirit of Law, he upended old political ways with his theory of the separation of powers into executive, legislative, and judicial branches of administration. And he warned, “The tyranny of a prince in an oligarchy is not so dangerous to the public welfare as the apathy of a citizen in a democracy.” We’ve seen the cost of this in terms of war and peace. We need also to see it also in terms of general health. Can we measure the social, economic and health costs of loss of hope in the political process? With half of the world’s population living in the nearly 100 counties having elections this year, 2024 was bound to be tumultuous and costly. Is it time for healthcare leaders to take a bolder stand? 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

Know your rights when renting

By Thersa Grant/Real Estate Columnist So, you’ve secured a rental in Durham Region. Wonderful. There are just a few things that concern you. The line in the lease regarding shoveling the snow and cutting the lawn. Do you really have to do that? Is that legal? Well according to the Residential Tenancy Act, the answer is clear. No, you do not have to do that. That being said, if you are renting a house in Durham Region, or a unit within a house, you’ll be hard pressed to find a lease agreement that doesn’t state exactly the opposite. In most cases the landlord will provide the lawnmower and shovels. In some cases, the tenant is actually expected to supply them. Often, there are several things listed in an agreement to lease a unit that are either illegal or not enforceable. One thing I come across a lot in lease agreements, is a clause that states that the tenant is responsible for the first portion of minor repairs due to normal wear and tear, and the landlord will be responsible for the remainder. This first portion can range from fifty dollars to two hundred dollars. This is akin to a deductible. This is completely outrageous. It is the landlord’s responsibility to maintain the unit in a good state of repair, period. Another clause you’ll find in most lease agreements nowadays is the key deposit. I often see a key deposit of two or three hundred dollars. The key deposit is returned to the tenant at the end of the tenancy providing the keys are returned to the landlord. However, the key deposit is not legally allowed to be more than the cost of the key. Several months ago, when showing an older unit in a triplex, the lockbox contained two keys. These were run of the mill keys that you would have cut in any local hardware store. When writing up an offer to lease the unit, there it was, the clause that speaks to the key deposit. The landlord was wanting a two-hundred-dollar key deposit for two keys that would cost you two or three dollars to cut. While it is important to know your rights, it is prudent to pick your battles. It is very important to have a good relationship with your landlord. Some people would have no problem cutting the lawn and shoveling the snow. If that is you, then great. If you are renting a whole house, it is often a great source of pride and enjoyment to keep the property looking beautiful. Although it is a rental, it is your home. Some people live in rental units for decades and have wonderful relationships with their landlords. Like all good relationships this takes work. Keep in mind that you are looking for a place to call home, and the landlord is looking for someone to live in their property. If you can strike a balance, everybody wins. The same mentality goes for the key deposit, while you legally do not have to give a deposit more than the value of the key itself, is that something you want to quibble about, or can you just oblige the landlord knowing you’ll get that back at the end of the tenancy? These are just a few situations. There are many. The key thing to remember is that no matter the circumstances, you always have options. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If there are red flags that make you question a situation or the integrity of the landlord, take that seriously and if need be, walk away. Before embarking on the rental journey or even if you’ve rented for years but are back in the market for a new place, you may well benefit from reading the Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario’s webpage and/or The Ontario Landlords Association webpage. Questions? Story ideas? You may reach me at: email newspaper@ocentral.com