The Close

The C

lose By Theresa Grant Real Estate Columnist It can be a whirlwind experience or a long-drawn-out exhausting search for a new home but once that home is found, the real work begins. After finding just the perfect home for you, you must then determine the right price to offer, and hope that it hits the mark. If it does not, however, your agent will then have to negotiate on your behalf and try their very best to get the house that you want at the price you are willing to pay for it. If negotiations, which include far more than just price are successful, there will be some celebrating for sure. After all, you’ve just bought a house! After the signing of the papers, both seller and buyer need to obtain real estate lawyers to handle their transactions and see everything through to closing day. Once the lawyers are on board for both sides, the names of the lawyers are given to the real estate agents for both parties and the agents will exchange those names and submit their files to their brokerages respectively. Between the purchase date and the closing date the buyers are usually entitled to two re- visits of the home they have purchased. This is usually for the purpose of taking measurements of windows for blinds or curtains along with perhaps taking some pictures of rooms and measuring for placement of furniture or larger items. Measuring of doorways and staircase openings, especially in older houses, is very important. With the advent of the split box spring this is not as big an issue as it used to be years ago. There is a matter though of trying to get heavy large, bulky furniture up staircases that are not big enough. So, to this end, measuring is a good idea. The first of the re visits can be whenever the buyer wants it as long as the seller agrees to the time and day. That is usually not a problem. The second visit, which is often called the pre-closing visit, usually takes place either the morning of the close or the day prior. The idea here is to have it as close to the actual closing as possible. The purpose is to make sure that everything is as agreed to in the agreement of purchase and sale. If the seller agreed to leave the appliances you saw when you put the offer on the house, you don’t want to find on moving day that they have been switched out for other appliances. With more and more agents taking pictures and writing actual make and model numbers of appliances into the agreement of purchase and sale, that doesn’t happen all that often. The same is true for light fixtures and anything else that was agreed upon. You just want to make sure it’s all there for you when you move in.

Politics in Pickering: When Transparency Takes a Back Seat to Theatrics

Politics in Pickering: When Transparency Takes a Back Seat to Theatrics By Lisa Robinson Think politics is boring? Not in Pickering! Our meetings have become a kind of reality TV - maybe even worthy of Netflix - with plot twists, dramatic outbursts, and a lot of conspiracy accusations thrown in for good measure. At our executive meeting last Monday February 3, 2025, I opened with questions directed at our Director of IT, Dale Quaif, and took a moment to flash back to last years February 5th, 2024 executive meeting. Back then, we used tax payers dollars of nearly $180,000.00 paid to MNP Digital to assess Digital Readiness and assessment strategy. The consultants confidently reported to Council that The Corporation of The City of Pickering boasted an extensive privacy and cybersecurity plan to protect residents’ personal online data. Sounds great, right? Wrong—it turned out to be nothing more than a complete lie. Because immediately after the consultants made this claim, I pressed our IT Director Mr. Quaif on the specifics of what measures were in place to protect our residents’ online personal data, and he painfully admitted there was nothing. Yes, you read that correctly… Nothing! He did, however, offer the promise that cybersecurity would eventually become part of our digital transition journey. Fast forward to February 3 of this year ‘2025—almost exactly a full year later—I found myself asking the same pointed question: What, if anything, has changed? After an exercise in political dodging, the answer was as stark as it was simple: nothing. There has been no implementation of new software or security measures. Instead, we were met with vague references to policies and procedures, legislation, two-factor authentication, and a records retention policy—a list of buzzwords without any concrete action behind them. I suggested that it would be a colossal waste of money to continually spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on new software when our IT Director doesn’t even have a clear grasp of our current list of software inventory—or whether any new purchases would even be compatible with what we already have. That’s when the Mayor lost it. While the Mayor was yelling at me and verbally abusing me, another councillor could not control her laughter. He accused my line of questioning of being deeply disrespectful and highly inappropriate, taking offense at my use of the word “waste” and my comment that our “IT Director should know our list of software inventory.” According to him, my terminology was grossly offensive. He went on to further abuse and insult me, claiming that there isn’t a conspiracy theory around every corner. In a childlike tantrum, the Mayor even labeled me a conspiracy theorist—while ironically disrespecting the Chair, the very rules he continually accuses me of violating. Once again, we witnessed the classic “rules for thee, but not for me” behavior... Apparently, pointing out poor planning and fiscal mismanagement is offensive to the Mayor. And here's the kicker: the so-called “conspiracy” is clearly laid out in black and white on MNP Digital's strategy plan—a $179,670.00 bill paid with your property tax dollars. Some conspiracy!

Truths Job Seekers Conveniently Ignore

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

Political bull fighting 101 -

‘opah che’ those are not my horns You are Grabbing - political bull fighting 101 - By Joe Ingino B.A. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States Rule number one at the school of bull fighters. Make sure that if you are going to grab the bull by the horns.... that you are facing the right end of the bull. In Canada we are being played.... with all the bull in Canadian politics... The new American bull fighter is ‘Oleing’ us right and left. Canada wake up... News reports keep coming regarding Trumps threat on imposing tariffs on Canadian goods. Some claim that Canada should take a tough stand against the U.S. threat on the implementation of tariffs. Making statements like ‘cut their power source’ from Canada. Other claim that we should do nothing. Even some are claiming that we should play it safe and go dollar for dollar on any tariff imposed. In the eleventh hour..... The American matador (bull fighter) did what he does best when the beast charges.... Ole... and there we go for another day of feet stomping getting us no place. We, the wild raging savage that we are... have no direction. No real plan and act out of raw survival instincts. We see red by the mere show of a red threat to our economies. We threaten retaliation only to hope to be grabbed by the horns and develop some sort of strong hold and push back strategy. In reality the great America bull fighter is playing us a fool by showing us the red cape meanwhile walking us around the arena by not our horns but our cojones. Leading us from one insecurity right to another. Another 30 days. Canada with a part time Prime MInister. With one of the most dissatrous leaders in history....How are we as Canadians ever to stand a change against the American matador? The media reported that we are such bad ass...that we banned American liquor from our store.... WOW... WE BAD ASS. Then to ad insult to injury.... The media reports that we have no real plan on how to collect the 25% tariff at the border. WOW. People talk of Canadian pride. Of Canadian identity. Yet, we have no political identity, our culture has been compromised by those we are compassionate and importing by the millions. Our customs and traditions are constantly under scrutiny in order to accept so that we are not seen as racists. We are easy picking for the matador. We are a controlled beast and we do not even know it. When we become the 51st we may have to change our ‘Oh Canada’ in our national anthem to ‘Ole Canada’...Lets wake up and see what is really happening before it is to late for Canada. Best attack is a solid defense. Think about it. Stop the bull fight mentality and to do nothing is doing something. Those are not our horns they are grabbing. Let the Matador fizz out. Let’s take control of our own country.

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

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

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

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

It’s Time for Canada to Grow Up and Stand Strong

It’s Time for Canada to Grow Up and Stand Strong By Dale Jodoin Canada is at a crossroads. The time has come for our nation to take a hard look at itself and make tough decisions for the future. The days of playing political games and catering to every interest group must come to an end. Our country needs unity, strength, and purpose, not division and pandering. A Call to Action The world is changing rapidly, and Canada cannot afford to be left behind. A close ally, the United States, has entered what some describe as an economic war—a competition for resources, markets, and dominance. While the United States is not our enemy, our dependence on their economy has made us vulnerable. This situation is not the fault of Americans; it is the fault of Canadian politicians who have failed to prioritize our nation’s interests. For too long, Canada has been led by governments that don’t seem to believe in the strength and potential of our own people. Political parties like the Liberals and the NDP have focused on divisive policies rather than building a united, resilient country. It’s time to elect leaders who represent all Canadians and who are ready to put the needs of the country first. Putting Canada First To stand strong as a nation, Canada must focus on being self-reliant. This means making tough sacrifices and embracing policies that will benefit the entire country, not just specific groups. While individual rights and freedoms are important, we need to think as a collective nation. Either we all stand for Canada, or we all fall together. The challenges we face today require unity, not division. It’s not enough to simply say we are strong—we need to show it. Canada must demonstrate to the world that we are not a nation to be underestimated. We are not just a friendly neighbor to the United States. We are a proud, independent country with the strength to stand tall on our own. Supporting Our Farmers Canada’s greatest resource is not just in its land or minerals—it’s in our farmers. Farmers are the true backbone of this country, ensuring that we are fed and taken care of in every way. It’s time to prioritize them, giving them the support they need to thrive. Policies must focus on ensuring that farmers can afford to feed us and provide for their families. If we want to secure our food supply and strengthen the country, we need to invest in our farmers. As part of this effort, Canada should seek free trade agreements with any country willing to trade food and agricultural products fairly. By supporting our farmers and building stronger international partnerships, we can guarantee food security for generations to come. Building a Stronger Economy One of the first steps in this process should be building new oil refineries. Canada has vast natural resources, but we are not using them to their full potential. Countries in Asia, Europe, and parts of the world are eager for oil and gas, and we should be stepping up to meet that demand. By refining and exporting our own resources, we can create jobs, boost our economy, and reduce our reliance on foreign countries. At the same time, we need to become more selective about who we allow to immigrate to Canada. Immigrants should bring skills, ideas, and values that will help make the country stronger. While Canada should remain open and welcoming, we must prioritize what’s best for the nation as a whole. A Stronger Defense Another critical priority is building our military. A strong defense sends a clear message to the world: Canada is not weak, and we will not back down from challenges. Strengthening our military isn’t about seeking conflict; it’s about being prepared to defend our sovereignty and support our allies. Those who oppose a stronger defense are not thinking about the long-term survival of this nation. We must also maintain a close and respectful relationship with the United States. Despite economic competition, the United States is still our closest ally. If the U.S. faces a threat, Canada must be ready to stand by them. Our two countries share more than a border—we share history, culture, and values. Protecting Our Water and Resources Canada’s water is one of our most precious resources, and we must treat it as such. The world will soon come to realize the value of clean, abundant water, and Canada must be prepared to protect what is ours. As we secure our water and other natural resources, we must also work to create a society where respect and civility thrive. Restoring Respect and Unity To rebuild Canada’s strength, we need to return to values that made this country great. Elders must be respected, and young people must learn to give respect in return. Charity, mercy, and hard work should be cornerstones of our society. Canadians must remember what it means to be proud of their country and work together for a common goal. This means rejecting politicians who divide us or fail to act in the best interests of all Canadians. Those who don’t prioritize unity and strength should not be allowed to run for office. We need leaders who believe in Canada’s potential and are willing to make the tough decisions needed to achieve it. A New Era for Canada Canada is a country of immense potential, but only if we stop playing small. It’s time to step onto the world stage with confidence, not as a nation that bends to everyone’s demands, but as one that stands tall and commands respect. If we are not tall enough, we will climb the tallest mountain and stand tall there. We must put aside petty politics and focus on what truly matters: building a strong, united, and prosperous Canada. This is not just for our generation but for generations to come. Our actions today will determine the future of this country, and we must act with courage and determination. The Path Forward - To achieve this vision, we need to take bold steps: Support Our Farmers: Invest in farming and agriculture, ensuring food security for all Canadians. Negotiate fair trade agreements to strengthen our agricultural sector. Invest in Infrastructure: Build new refineries and other projects that create jobs and boost the economy. Strengthen National Defense: Expand and modernize the military to protect Canada’s sovereignty and support our allies. Protect Resources: Safeguard Canada’s water, minerals, and natural resources for future generations. Reform Immigration: Welcome immigrants who will contribute positively to Canada’s growth and success. Restore Values: Promote respect, civility, and unity in our society. Elect Strong Leaders: Support politicians who put Canada’s interests first and reject those who don’t. Canada is at a turning point. Will we rise to the challenge and become the strong, united country we are capable of being? Or will we continue to play small, divided, and vulnerable? The choice is ours to make. Now is the time to grow up and take control of our future. Let’s stand together and show the world what Canada is truly capable of.

DEMOCRATIC LOOPHOLE

DEMOCRATIC LOOPHOLE By Joe Ingino B.A. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States Premier Doug Ford confirmed that the Honorable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, has accepted the premier's advice to sign a proclamation dissolving the 43rd Parliament of the Province of Ontario. Pursuant to the provisions of the Election Act, the Lieutenant Governor also called for the issuance of writs for the general election to be issued January 29, 2025, and named February 27, 2025, as the date of Ontario's next general election. What political arrogance. By Ford calling an election he is pretty much solidifying his complete control over Ontario. The ultimate political goal. To have total and complete control. To eliminate opposition and to exercise a strong hand tactics against your opponents. Hum. Does it not sound like what is taking place south of the border? Ford, by calling an election is assuring total control of the Province. He knows that the NDP does not have a chance in hell. The Liberals are about to be pushed off the Canadian political horizon. This snap election is nothing short of an abuse of the democratic process. A process that is in place to allow the common folk to exercise their right to vote in who they think it is worthy of the position. Unfortunately, this has been compromise and undermined in order to gain total and complete control over the population. Ford, in the past has shown great initiative in championing the interest of those he represents. Across the province. The Blue tide is about to roll over all Liberal standing posts. Locally Jerry Ouellette is being pulled from the PC stables in the hope that the name recognition will regain the post as he once did. Jerry is a great person. As our MPP he was always accessible and most importantly listened to constituents. On the other hand. We had to endure Jennifer French since 2014. She does not return phone calls. She has not once supported this newspaper. She is never available for interviews and events. It almost appears that once elected she shut down the community. This is not representation. This is not why constituents voted her in. I am eager to see the outcome in this race... Thomas Sowell said it best, “By the end of the 20th century, “liberals” had again discredited themselves, to the point where they went back to calling themselves “progressives” to escape their past, much as people do when they declare bankruptcy.” If this stands true. The time has come. Much like it is happening in the United States. Society is about to re-set. Are you ready?

A human tragedy that must never happen again

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

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

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

Including a Cover Letter Gives You a Competitive Advantage

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

FORD’S $189M ELECTION GAMBLE: A BID FOR POWER, NOT THE PEOPLE

FORD’S $189M ELECTION GAMBLE: A BID FOR POWER, NOT THE PEOPLE By Sami Parvez Ontario Premier Doug Ford has called an early provincial election, citing the need for a stronger majority amidst threats from Trump’s tariffs. However, the reality seems different — with his party already leading strongly in the polls, Ford appears eager to capitalize on this political advantage. Like many politicians intoxicated by power, whether prime ministers or premiers, they often seek to extend their rule indefinitely. Many politicians often prioritize political gains over taxpayer interests. On January 28, Ford met with Lt.-Gov. Edith Dumont to dissolve the Ontario Legislature and call an early provincial election, costing taxpayers $189 million. The election will take place on Thursday, February 27, making it Ontario’s first winter election since 1883. For the past year, there had been speculation that Ford would call an early election, and he never ruled it out. Finally, he called the election, and taxpayers will pay the price. The $189 million could be better spent on healthcare, addressing the housing crisis, or supporting homeless individuals. According to Feed Ontario, A hunger-relief organization and advocacy group focused on ending hunger and poverty through fresh food delivery, innovative programs, and research-driven change through research and advocacy, "40% of food banks have reduced the amount of food they provide, and half have been forced to cut wrap-around services amid record-high demand and resource shortages. There was a 25% increase in the use of food banks in Ontario compared to 2023, marking the eighth consecutive year of growth." Ford’s Progressive Conservative Party already holds a large majority, with 79 out of 124 seats. Despite this, he is still not satisfied. This is not about securing a larger majority but about keeping his job for the next four years. For the past nine years, the Liberals have been in power at the federal level, but they are now trailing their main rivals, the Conservatives, by over 20 points in the polls. Ford isn’t willing to take any risks, anticipating that the federal Conservatives will likely secure a majority in the next election. If they falter during their first term, his government could suffer the consequences in 2026 if the election remains on its fixed date. "When the tariffs hit, it affects the media, it affects manufacturing, it affects every single sector in this province," Ford told reporters on Jan. 24. "So you better pray that we get elected, because I'm going to protect everyone's job, including the media's job." Ford presents himself as the only leader capable of dealing with Trump. He attacked his main rivals, NDP Leader Marit Stiles and Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie, during a campaign-style news conference in Brampton, Ont., on Jan. 24. Mocking his opponents during a Jan. 24 news conference, he said: "Imagine Bonnie Crombie or Marit Stiles sitting across from President Trump negotiating a deal. It would be an absolute disaster. And God help us if that ever happens." According to polling aggregator 338Canada.com, if an election were held today, the Progressive Conservatives (PC) would win a historic 45% of the vote, securing 99 seats. The Ontario Liberals would follow with 26% of the vote, earning 8 seats, while the NDP would capture 21% of the vote and 14 seats. The Ontario Greens are projected to receive 6% of the vote, winning 2 seats. Additionally, an independent candidate could also secure a seat in the Ontario Legislature. “Right now, President Trump has put uncertainty to every single Canadian, a lot of other countries around the world, and this isn’t going to happen overnight. It may not happen Feb. 1, I’m sure something’s coming, but this is going to be a battle for the next four years, and I want to make sure that I have a strong mandate to outlast President Trump,” Ford told the media after the writ was dropped on Tuesday Jan. 28. Ontario opposition leaders accuse Ford of calling an early election for political gain, arguing that it is unnecessary and a waste of taxpayer money on the on the first day of election campaign on Wednesday, Jan. 29. We should be here at Queen’s Park, working across party lines to show strength through unity in the face of Donald Trump’s threats. Instead, Doug Ford has called an election, abandoning the people of Ontario when they need him the most,” Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner said in a speech at Queen’s Park on Wednesday, “Clearly, Doug Ford cares more about his job than he does about yours.” “We are here today because Doug Ford doesn’t care about you. Because he has decided to spend $175 million on an election we don’t need, rather than spending that money on getting you a family doctor or on anything to make your life a little easier,” Crombie said in Barrie on Wednesday, slamming Ford for calling an early election in a key riding the Liberals aim to flip from the PCs. In her campaign launch in downtown Toronto on Wednesday, NDP Leader Marit Stiles mocked Ford’s ability as a negotiator. “Doug Ford as our negotiator, are you kidding?” Stiles said. “Time and time again, Doug Ford has shown he can’t negotiate his way out of a paper bag.” Ford is using the threat of Trump’s tariffs as an excuse for calling an early election, even though U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that Canada cannot prevent the tariffs set to take effect on Feb. 1. This makes Ford’s justification for spending $189 million on an unnecessary election even weaker. Ontarians need stronger government support to secure necessities such as food, healthcare, shelter, and economic stability. They don’t want one person to cling to power indefinitely. Ontarians deserve better governance, true leadership, and greater accountability. It’s time for the government to put citizens’ well-being ahead of political gains. Ford's decision proves he is more focused on power than on addressing Ontario's real crises.

The Open House

The Open House By Theresa Grant Real Estate Columnist Everyone loves an open house, or do they? When you have your home listed for sale, a common method of advertising it is to hold an open house. An open house is where you choose a couple of, or a few hours on a particular day or perhaps a couple of days, to throw open the doors and invite people in. The idea behind the open house is to have people that are in the market to purchase a home walk through, hopefully fall in love with your home and want to make an offer on it. The open house dates back several decades but like everything else has changed over the years. Back in the day it was more about just getting someone through the door because if they could just see the place, surely, they would love it. That was the mentality. Especially if a family had lived there and enjoyed it for many years. Back then the primary focus of the open house was to have the home itself clean as a whistle and make the home as inviting as possible. Today’s open house is more geared toward showing off the latest features and fabulous upgrades that have been made to the home over the years. To impress upon potential buyers the money that has been spent on maintaining and updating the home. Today’s open house is also a marketing boon for realtors. Now when you go to an open house, you need to sign in with your name and email address or your home address. This is both to protect the realtor and the homeowner, but it also serves as a marketing tool for the realtor. You are usually asked if you are working with a realtor. If you are not, you are asked if you would like to receive either a monthly communication which is generally a newsletter. If you say yes, you are now on a realtor’s email list and will be sent periodic communications, which is not a bad thing. A lot of people win great prizes and other things by allowing a realtor to send you information periodically. Most realtors are generally very generous and will spend time and money to nurture a relationship with someone who may use their services down the road. Holidays and special times of the year are usually when people see little gifts in their mailboxes or hanging from their door handle, from realtors. Often an open house is another opportunity for a realtor to promote their services by offering giveaways and branded materials at their open houses. While it is hoped that the open house will bring a buyer for that property, it doesn’t always. Just remember, when you see an open house sign, even if you are not looking at the moment, you are welcome to attend. See you there. Everyone loves an open house, or do they? When you have your home listed for sale, a common method of advertising it is to hold an open house. An open house is where you choose a couple of, or a few hours on a particular day or perhaps a couple of days, to throw open the doors and invite people in. The idea behind the open house is to have people that are in the market to purchase a home walk through, hopefully fall in love with your home and want to make an offer on it. The open house dates back several decades but like everything else has changed over the years. Back in the day it was more about just getting someone through the door because if they could just see the place, surely, they would love it. That was the mentality. Especially if a family had lived there and enjoyed it for many years. Back then the primary focus of the open house was to have the home itself clean as a whistle and make the home as inviting as possible. Today’s open house is more geared toward showing off the latest features and fabulous upgrades that have been made to the home over the years. To impress upon potential buyers the money that has been spent on maintaining and updating the home. Today’s open house is also a marketing boon for realtors. Now when you go to an open house, you need to sign in with your name and email address or your home address. This is both to protect the realtor and the homeowner, but it also serves as a marketing tool for the realtor. You are usually asked if you are working with a realtor. If you are not, you are asked if you would like to receive either a monthly communication which is generally a newsletter. If you say yes, you are now on a realtor’s email list and will be sent periodic communications, which is not a bad thing. A lot of people win great prizes and other things by allowing a realtor to send you information periodically. Most realtors are generally very generous and will spend time and money to nurture a relationship with someone who may use their services down the road. Holidays and special times of the year are usually when people see little gifts in their mailboxes or hanging from their door handle, from realtors. Often an open house is another opportunity for a realtor to promote their services by offering giveaways and branded materials at their open houses. While it is hoped that the open house will bring a buyer for that property, it doesn’t always. Just remember, when you see an open house sign, even if you are not looking at the moment, you are welcome to attend. See you there. Questions? Column ideas? You can email me at newspaper@ocentral.com

SNIP DURHAM

SNIP DURHAM By Maurice Brenner Regional Councillor Ward 1 Pickering The theme for this months column and future columns will look at how our City is moving forward in a positive manner. While nothing is perfect, I believe that this is the best way to grow and attract business. On January 27th, Council held its first meeting of the year and it was a full agenda, including the adoption of the reports carried forward from the Executive meeting. These are some of the key highlights. The City of Pickering’s first Community Risk Assessment and Fire Master Plan was endorsed by Council. The plan is an important road map that will enable Pickering to meet the needs of residents and businesses and ensure our City has the necessary resources for staffing, equipment and facilities to keep pace with growth. The Plan was supported by the Pickering Fire Fighters Association whose President delegated in support of the Plan and its recommendations on behalf of its members. Pickering’s Fire Services has a dedicated team of Fire Fighters and along with its Leadership can always be counted on to keep our City safe. The final vote was 7:0 Another important agenda item makes it possible for the City to move forward on various financial housekeeping matters following the adoption of the 2025 Budget. With its passing, Council approved an increase to the 2025 Low Income Seniors & Persons with Disabilities Tax Grant amount, from $560 to $600 per household which helps to off set some of their economic pressures associated with the City of Pickering property tax. Attempts to provide a similar grant to offset the Regional portion is not been possible without the unanimous endorsement from all of the lower-tier Municipalities and has proven to be a challenge, as not every Municipality agrees with this. There was also approval for various grants to Community Organizations enabling them to continue the important work they are doing in our City such as the FoodBank, DARs, Pickering Islamic Centre, Pickering Rotary Club and others. The final vote was 6:1 Several important motions also passed, including the one I presented dealing with the lack of affordability of Veterinarian Care which has resulted in an increase of abandoned pet ending up in shelters, many of which have been left on roads and infields while others are just surrendered when owners can no longer afford to care for them. The Motion requested the Ontario Government to amend the necessary Legislation calling upon the Ontario Veterinarian College to review the impact of the rising cost and available options. With Ontario going to the polls February 27th this needs to be a topic at the doors as candidates look for votes. The final vote was 7:0 Another important motion passed was a request for a minor review by Watson and Associates (who previously conducted an Independent review of Ward Boundaries. Council) asking them to look at the boundary lines through lens of population and community features along with input from Community. The New Ward Boundaries are set to change for the October 2026 Municipal Elections. The final vote was 6:1 As a member of Pickering Council and Durham Region, I will continue to do my best to be a Strong Community Voice, advancing a positive agenda on your behalf. Watch for my next feature, a preview of what Pickering could look like in 2051.

What My Family Taught Me About Holding Grudges As An Autistic Individual

What My Family Taught Me About Holding Grudges As An Autistic Individual by Kadin McElwain: What My Family Taught Me About Holding Grudges As An Autistic Individual Research has shown that individuals on the autism spectrum tend to hold grudges a bit longer than a neurotypical individual. These grudges can be over something minor, such as an individual not keeping their word when they say they’re going to Disneyland. But these grudges can also be over major life changes, such as a parent choosing to go with a man she had a crush on over being with her family. With my own experiences with holding grudges, I learned three things about the impact grudges can have on an individual. These lessons are ones I learned from my birth mother, who we’ll call Monika K, and my family. Lesson One: The Pettiness Of A Grudge: It was 2016 in Chandler, Arizona. In nine years, there would be TikTok, ChatGPT, and Tesla robot assistants. My family was preparing to move from Arizona to Tennessee, mainly due to how the education system was handled in the state. The initial plan was for all of us, Monika K included, to move to Tennessee together like we’ve always done historically. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, Monika K had to go to New York to be with her new boyfriend, choosing him over me. I held this grudge for nine years and I quite frankly still despise my birth mother for not choosing her son, who was already struggling back then as it was. But looking back at this moment, I remember the first lesson my parents taught me about grudges. The first lesson is to think about the pettiness of holding a grudge against someone. Some grudges can be over things that are quite frankly silly. For example, some grudges can be over something like someone being busy and not having the time to go out to lunch with you on Tuesday or your boss asking you to stay late to do 40 pounds of paperwork when you have a date night planned for your new fiancee. But other grudges are also justifiable, such as someone intentionally choosing something or someone over you. But the key is to decide which situation justifies a long grudge. Life is way too short to be mad at someone for a long time over a small thing. Lesson Two: Consider What Type Of Person You’re Holding the Grudge Against: Now Monika K, while she has tried her best, has never been a good person. In the past, she has made some trust-damaging decisions, including one involving some personal family drama and another involving a barn, that has rendered her untrustworthy. That doesn’t necessarily mean I don’t love her or respect her as a parent. But that incident in Arizona was just another one of the poor decisions she made that affected everyone around her. But that incident and her past led to another lesson I learned about grudges. That lesson is to consider the type of person you’re holding a grudge against. Are they a good person who genuinely cares about you? Are they someone who didn’t put your feelings before their own when pursuing a task? Who the person is can make a huge impact on how long you hold a grudge against them. If they made a mistake multiple times, it’s likely that they’ll never learn and that the grudge is justifiable. Lesson Three: Do What’s Best For You: Monika K’s mistake damaged me emotionally and put me through a period where I wasn’t open to the idea of socializing with people. What was the point if they were just going to leave me? It took me nine years to gather the strength to try to make friends again. I was so angry at her and didn’t know how to deal with that in a healthy way. This leads to the third and final lesson that my family taught me about holding grudges against people: Do what’s best for you. Holding a grudge can cause a lifetime of emotional pain and trauma, to the point where your social progress might be hindered and you’ll be afraid of trusting people. It’s unfair at best and damaging to your mental health at worst. So you should make an effort to forgive the person who hurt you, no matter the history between you and them. However, if it comes down to it, you may have to cut them off if being around them puts you in an unhealthy spot. Grudges can be a complicated thing to get over. However, the lessons I’ve learned during my time with Monika K have helped me a lot in navigating the topic. A grudge is something you don’t have to get over until you’re ready. In fact, you may never get over the grudge. But if you apply the lessons I shared, you will be more confident in your ability to navigate grudges.

Firestarter

Firestarter By Wayne & Tamara I've been with my girlfriend five years. We've had our share of ups and downs, but overall it's been the most rewarding relationship I could imagine. Recently everything was perfect. Then I went camping with my friend's girlfriend and alcohol was involved. made a very bad and unconscious decision to perform oral sex on her, which is all that happened. I just wasn't thinking. I never thought this could happen because I am not that kind of person. Afterwards I felt terrible. Although I had no emotional attachment to this girl, I felt I had done the worst possible thing. I told my girlfriend the next day, and now our relationship is on the brink of dissipating. I still love her and know in my heart we can work this out, but she doesn't want to talk to me right now. Jack Jack, when horror writer Stephen King was in high school, he was given a chance to be a sports reporter for his local newspaper. King had only one reservation: he knew nothing about sports. The editor of the paper, however, didn't see that as a problem. As he explained to Stephen, "These are games people understand when they're watching them drunk in bars. You'll learn if you try." You are trying to understand a game you played while drunk on a camping trip, and you are taking the high road in all this. Alcohol made you do it, so you are innocent there. It was only oral sex, so you are almost blameless there. And you confessed, so you are an honorable person. But you must have known when you confessed you were destroying your relationship in your girlfriend's mind and in her memory. You claim alcohol made you a different person against your character, values, and will. Some ancient, and not so ancient, cultures take a different view. Alcohol frees a person to be who they really are, or at least frees them to do what they seek to do. Often when a relationship reaches the three, five, or seven year mark, it's at a crossroads. It needs to become marriage or be over. Some inner voice is telling you to end it, but you won't face up to that, so you're going to force her to end it for you. The outer part of you is having a problem with this. But the inner part is driving this forward. If she lets it pass this time, your inner voice will force the issue again, and again your outer part will deny all responsibility for what is happening. Wayne & Tamara Fire Insurance I am a divorcée, living in India, in a relationship with a married guy. He is married with two kids, but still he loves me a lot. He tells me the reason he loves me so much is I am his first love. We have no plans of getting married. I want to come out of this relationship, yet at the same time I need him at least until I marry because I need a man in my life. Help me. If my family or his family comes to know about our relationship, it will be very embarrassing. I told him many times to stop talking to me, but he says at least until my marriage we can be friendly. I feel I need him at least until then, but what if we get caught? Rena Rena, there are people who eat fire, people who juggle flaming torches, and people who walk on burning coals. These people are all trained professionals. You haven't indicated you have any training with pyrotechnics, and as an amateur, you are likely to get scorched. Do you want to play with fire, or do you want a loving marriage? You know the risks. Playing with fire may torch your chances for a happy marriage. Wayne & Tamara 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.

Get Up at Night Less Frequently

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

THE AMERICAN AGE OF AQUARIUS

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

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

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