My Old House - Part Five

My Old House - Part Five By Theresa Grant Real Estate Columnist What a difference a door makes! So, last week we left off with the living room having been painted with six coats of soft yellow paint, and a new door being installed in the kitchen. I cannot tell you what a difference the door has made. I never realized just how much light is blocked by the steel or wood make up of a door until now. The model I chose is a single full glass door going out to the backyard. It has a roller shade built in between the glass panes. The amount of light streaming through this door is quite impressive. I have a lot of plants in the kitchen so needless to say they are loving this. It’s one of those things where I think to myself, I wish I had done this earlier but of course we don’t know until we know. With the door installed in the kitchen, that room is now complete. The coastal theme though, is proving to be a little harder to pull off than I had originally thought. The entry hall is the beautiful seafoam green; the living room was going to be green to match but at the last minute I went with the yellow of the kitchen to match that side of the room. That may have been a mistake. A mistake that will unfortunately cost me a few hundred dollars to correct. I need to get this right. I was afraid to go with three separate colours for the hall, the living room and the kitchen which are all open onto each other. I thought it would be too much and not look good. I am thinking differently now though. I absolutely love corals, and I am now thinking that I want to put coral in the living room. A big part of the problem when it comes to the living room is the window in the middle of the room. The window itself is only 22 inches wide. It’s tiny and looks ridiculous in the living room so to offset the look, I went out and purchased a longer curtain rod and extended the rod and have the curtains full and extended to about 4 to 5 feet. Trying to find curtains that go with a coastal look is not easy. Most coastal looks incorporate sheers for that flowy, breezy look which I, by the way love. I cannot do that here though because you would then see the wall on either side of the 22-inch window and it would look ridiculous. Right now, I have blue drapes with white sheers in the middle to go nicely with the yellow walls. That said, the look is a classic look not a coastal look. So, now I have 2 different themes going on in the living room and it is clear that I am in a bit of a pickle. I’m really not sure what my next move will be to try to get the look I am going for. Hopefully the weekend will bring inspiration.

A LOT HAS HAPPENED WITH MUCH MORE STILL TO COME

***MY CITY HALL COLUMN RETURNS TO THE CENTRAL*** A LOT HAS HAPPENED WITH MUCH MORE STILL TO COME By Dean Hickey THERE IS NOTHING IS SO IRRESISTABLE as a commanding position working in the name of the people, because, while it exercises a certain moral influence which belongs to the decision of the majority, it acts at the same time with the promptitude and tenacity of a single man. That man is me, and this my column. To suggest my time reporting on municipal politics last autumn was rewarding is a serious understatement. Thirty days had scarcely elapsed since I offered up my somewhat premature retirement, when my attention was once again struck by local events. Certainly, 2025 is shaping up to be a busy year at city halls across this region, and locally, residents have borne witness to the mundane, tolerated the unusual, and scoffed at what they could only describe as some of the more bizarre aspects of political theatre. January began with Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter waving his arms about and literally walking out of a committee meeting in a huff following repeated exchanges with the chair. Nevertheless, a degree of sympathy can be had for the Mayor, as this was a clear example of what happens when the chair of a Committee, in this case Ward 4 city councillor Derek Giberson, loses the ability to keep the discussion within the rules that govern proper procedure. It’s well known that the Mayor has been councillor Giberson’s political benefactor on more than one occasion, and to see them at odds was heart-wrenching to say the least. Meanwhile in Pickering, the New Year kicked off with the publication of a YouTube video, dedicated to exposing what Mayor Kevin Ashe described as “…a growing infiltration of alt-right individuals, ideologies, and influences” within his municipal arena. The video, aimed at Ward 1 City councillor Lisa Robinson, was created in the style of a television docudrama, complete with background music and a narration by staff. Subsequent events have resulted in all Pickering council meetings being held virtually, with city staff noticeably absent as tensions continue to rise. Expect big news on this in the weeks and months ahead, and perhaps a sort of “High Noon” moment where the opponents have their final showdown. Over at Regional headquarters, Durham councillors voted in favour of investigating the construction of a $1Billion gondola transit system along Oshawa’s Simcoe Street corridor, extending from Lakeview Park right up to Durham College. “We understand the public is going to be skeptical and council is going to be skeptical. It’s a new technology,” said Durham Region’s David Dunn, who gave the update on the Transit Study. “A large part of our plan moving forward will be in educating people so they can make informed decisions and they don’t just see this as a novel approach.” Well, that sounds like a tall order Dave, particularly for the residents of Oshawa, however there did appear to be one convert who could be heard offering up considerable praise for the idea. Mayor Dan Carter told his fellow councillors, "I find the conversation fascinating. I’ve been fascinated by the whole thing all the way through. I like that we’re forward thinking. I like that we’re trying to look at things a little bit differently." He went on to tell his colleagues, "I mean, we’re a ‘higher learning’ community, so to be able to get post-secondary education involved would be important. Mr. Chairman, I’m excited about this project and I’m excited about continuing on with the discovery, and I look forward to the final report." That sound pretty positive, right? Wrong. As often happens in politics, the mayor had second thoughts within minutes, and decided to vote against the idea. Another developing story in Oshawa continues to be the transformation of the downtown and surrounding area, which includes large scale developments like the multi-residential project that will soon take the place of most of the old Oshawa Clinic buildings. The City Centre highrise across from city hall also appears poised to begin in earnest, as does the renovations to the PHI Building at Centre and King St’s. As it happens, there are too many new projects to mention here, but readers can rest assured there will be multiple construction cranes visible very soon, on McMillan Dr, Athol St, Bond St, and possibly on the old Fittings property, although that remains to be seen. Oh, and look to see a revitalization of the old Bond Street bus terminal as well. Unfortunately, Oshawa residents continue to put up with ongoing acts of vandalism to some of the businesses located in the city’s downtown, and while staff and councillors condemn this illegal behaviour, one can only hope that the upcoming summer months will be nothing like last year when scenes of violence became an almost regular occurrence. This, too, will be a developing story in the weeks and months ahead. The process of drawing important information out of city hall is one to which I have become fully accustomed, and there is so much still to be reported on and discussed. The very essence of a democratic and transparent government consists in the sometimes more contentious aspects of investigative journalism. An aggressive yet honest approach by one in my position is not only fair, but also beneficial to the readers of The Central. Should anyone label this newspaper as either too bold or unforgiving, I would suggest it is nothing of the kind, because holding elected officials and others to account is, on behalf of the public, the special duty of writers and editors attached to the public press. The blood of certain members of council has been known to run high with righteous indignation against The Central as they sought to disparage the more pertinent aspects of an honest profession. The founder and publisher of this newspaper, Joe Ingino, has more than once shared a jaunty laugh, reassuring himself he is safe against any wound which could be inflicted by his antagonists. Let it be said the thin blade of reason continues to penetrate every page of this publication. Finally, it is worth noting that one Oshawa councillor recently suggested to his constituents and to others on social media that to go against his ideals and beliefs was, as he put it, “the antithesis to friendship.” Rest assured, this newspaper and this column will continue to support and promote the right of individuals to think independently. It’s nice to be home again.

Pickering’s Democracy Is Under Siege

Pickering’s Democracy Is Under Siege By Lisa Robinson Pickering’s Democracy Is Under Siege—and I’m the Last Line of Defense By Councillor Lisa Robinson Pickering, Ontario, is no longer a democracy. Let’s stop pretending it is. Under Mayor Kevin Ashe’s iron grip, our city has slid into full-blown authoritarian rule, and I’ve been fighting tooth and nail to stop it. For nine months, I’ve stood alone against a 6-to-1 council majority hell-bent on silencing dissent, punishing the truth, and dismantling the very principles that hold a free society together. They’re trying to destroy my name, my livelihood, and my resolve—but I’m not backing down. This isn’t about me. It’s about you, the people of Pickering, and the democracy they’re stealing from us. What’s happening here isn’t just political mismanagement, it’s a calculated, communist-style power grab. Mayor Ashe isn’t acting like a leader; he’s acting like a dictator. He’s seized control of city government, sidelined the public, and turned City Hall into his personal kingdom. His latest move? Under Strong Mayor Power’s declared himself Chair of the Executive Committee—the most powerful decision-making body in the city. That gives him absolute control over which issues are discussed, how they’re framed, and how decisions are made. Translation? He controls everything. If by chance Ashe can’t be present, the powers to be have been assigned to Councillor Brenner as Vice Chair. He didn’t stop there. Ashe has appointed his loyal Deputy Mayor to chair the Planning Committee, and assigned Vice Chair to Councillor Butt, which means all major development decisions will now be rubber-stamped without meaningful debate or oversight. Statutory public meetings—your chance to be heard—have been shoved to separate evenings where only the Chair is required to show up. The rest of council can skip it, leaving your concerns ignored and your voice silenced. Don’t buy the “efficiency” or “burden” excuse – because I was never asked if I felt like chairing or attending meetings was ever a burden. In fact, I think the opposite, I would chair every meeting if I could and give every Pickering resident the chance to participate and have their voices heard. This is about cutting you out of the process. Fewer eyes, less pushback. That’s control, plain and simple. It gets worse. Ashe has also moved council meetings online—supposedly for “public safety”—yet Ashe’s wife, kids, and even his 8-year-old grandkids were allowed to attend in person. If it’s not safe for you, why is it safe for them? This isn’t about safety; it’s about silencing you. It’s easier to manipulate the narrative when you’re not in the room. Meanwhile, City Hall’s council chambers are being remodeled into a courtroom, with Ashe, the CAO, and the City Clerk front and center—while your elected Councillors are pushed to the sidelines. When you speak, you’ll face a wall of power, not the people you voted for. That’s not democracy—it’s intimidation. The public’s voice is being choked out. Delegation times have been slashed from 10 minutes to 5. No direct questions allowed. No recording meetings without a two-thirds council vote—good luck getting that. Residents can’t even discuss Integrity Commissioner reports meant to hold officials accountable. The CAO picks the media outlets for city ads, turning transparency into propaganda. Questions? Ask them behind closed doors—or not at all. This is a systematic shutdown of scrutiny, and it’s happening right in front of us. But Ashe’s authoritarian reach doesn’t stop at City Hall. He and his allies on council have also lobbied the provincial government to amend the Municipal Act—giving them the power to remove elected officials from office and ban them from running in future elections. Let’s be very clear: That’s not democracy. In a democracy, the voters decide who stays and who goes at the ballot box—not a handful of politicians behind closed doors. If Ashe and his council get their way, this would be nothing short of election interference. It would mean politicians—not the people—deciding who gets to participate in the democratic process. Challenge the establishment, and you’re gone—not by the will of the people, but by the whim of a political majority. That’s how authoritarian regimes operate—not democracies. This isn’t just about local control—it’s about fundamentally altering how democracy works in this province. Politicians are supposed to be accountable to the voters, not each other. If an elected official crosses the line, the voters decide their fate at the next election—that’s the foundation of democracy. But Ashe wants to rewrite that rulebook, giving politicians the power to remove their opponents and eliminate competition. That’s not democracy—that’s tyranny. I’ve been on the front lines of this fight since day one, exposing corruption and demanding transparency. How did Ashe respond? By hitting me where it hurts. For nine months, I haven’t received a single paycheck—not one cent—because I refused to stay quiet about the backroom deals and abuses of power I’ve witnessed. They’ve frozen my council budget, blocking me from holding town halls or keeping you informed. They’ve weaponized city resources to cut me out of key decisions. This isn’t just retaliation—it’s a desperate attempt to break me. But here’s the thing: I didn’t run for office for a paycheck. I ran to fight for you. And I’m not going anywhere. Then there’s Ashe’s wife. This isn’t just about him—it’s about a political dynasty. Her influence has turned city decisions into a family affair, protecting their inner circle at Pickering’s expense. This isn’t government; it’s a business—and we’re not the customers. Decisions are no longer being made for the good of Pickering—they’re being made to protect and benefit the Ashe political family and their friends. They want you to think this is over. They want you to believe Ashe will get away with it. But I’m still here, the lone voice against a stacked council, taking the hits so you don’t have to. They’ve tried to destroy my name, calling me a troublemaker, a radical—anything to discredit the truth. But I wear their attacks as a badge of honour. Every unpaid month, every blocked town hall, every 6-to-1 vote against me proves I’m striking a nerve. I’m fighting for free speech, for your right to be heard, for a Pickering where power answers to the people—not the other way around. This is our last stand. If Ashe gets his way, democracy in Pickering—and maybe beyond—dies. But I believe in us. I believe in the grit of this community. They can’t silence me, and they won’t silence you. It’s time to rise up, demand accountability, and take back our city. Because if we don’t stop this now, there may be no turning back. Here’s a list of the authoritarian measures Ashe, council, and the CAO have implemented to silence the public — though this may not be exhaustive: · Delegation times slashed — Reduced from 10 minutes to 5 minutes, making it almost impossible for residents to present their case. · No more Q&A — The public is no longer allowed to ask direct questions to council during meetings. · Recording meetings forbidden — The public can no longer record meetings · Media forbidden from recording meetings— Unless two-thirds of council votes in favour. · Restricted agenda control — Residents can’t speak about anything not already on the agenda unless two-thirds of council approves of topic. · Propaganda control — Council can now only advertise in media outlets hand-picked by the CAO. · Closed-door dealings — All questions must be asked behind closed doors, out of public view or they will cut off your mic. · Integrity Commissioner reports off-limits — Residents are forbidden from speaking about these reports at council meetings. · Banning public speakers — Residents from outside Pickering are banned from speaking at council meetings, unless approved by Mayor or City Clerk. · Virtual meetings — Moved under the guise of public safety. · Council chambers remodeled into a courtroom — You’ll now face Ashe, the CAO, and the City Clerk directly while councillors (Elected Officials) sit off to the side, stripping them of their authority. · Threatening political punishment — I’ve been denied my paycheck for nine months as retaliation for speaking up for constituents. · Weaponizing the budget — My council budget has been frozen, preventing me from holding town halls on City property. “Thoughtcrime” · Threats of loss of office — “Thoughtcrime” If I record any videos from my office — They don’t approve of the content or truth. · Notices of Motions — All notices of motions “shall” go through staff first before being presented · CAO Authority – I can no longer speak directly to Directors or Staff – all correspondence must go through the CAO · Staff Attendance – For the month of March, staff will not attend meetings in order to send a “strong message” because I called a staff member out for lying, and want to bring a notice of motion for strict penalties up to and including termination if employees are caught lying to public or council. · Trespass Orders — For speaking the truth, voicing your opinions, whether in person or over social media that the City feels threatening. They’re systematically silencing you. They’ve tried to crush me for exposing the truth. But I’m still here — and I’m not backing down. Pickering belongs to the people — and it’s time we take it back. I am Councillor Lisa Robinson “The People’s Councillor”

SOCIAL MEDIA IS DEAD

SOCIAL MEDIA IS DEAD By Joe Ingino B.A. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Articles Published Columns in Canada and The United States I can tell you with great authority that social media as a way to keep the population at large informed is dead. The Central as the first online publication back in 1993 and subsequently the first online radio station in 1995. We are the local experts in online communications and publishing. I remember the days of approaching the different municipalities with the idea of going digital. All were not set up to even entertain such technology. Others outright refused out of sheer fear of the initial expense. Bottom line. Municipalities were ignorant of what was about to come. If they had made the adaptation then. They would not have had to spend 10 times more for the upgrades that they were forced to do. In a nut shell most municipalities do not work on economic common sense. Instead they operate under the guise of popular thought. Today, most municipalities have opted to use online media systems. In an attempt to keep the population at large informed. We, approached all municipalities and warned them that it would be a failure. Once again they did not listen and you the tax payers are paying for it. No one knows what is going on. No one is getting vital information. All municipalities know that online is a huge failure. Look at the numbers on their social post. Minimal at best. They post there because it is cheap. Look at what is happening online. Reputable entities are being infiltrated by all kinds of commercialized crooks to the point that no one is trusting browsers. Just this week. Clarington released the following: We’re listening, Clarington! Help us measure our communications efforts—how can we do better? It’s time for a pulse check, Clarington! Two years ago, you told us how we could improve our communications efforts—and we listened! Now, we’re checking in again. Have we improved? What’s working well? Where can we do better? I have a public message. 1st. Listen to the experts in the community. 2nd. Don’t put out these type of messages in an attempt to give the idea that you care about what people have to say. As most people are openly opposing your elaborate phone systems. The fact that you are forcing people to go online during a very hard economic time. People can’t afford food on the table and you expect them to have internet and or a computer. Clarington, you want to do better. Go back to what worked for the past 1000 years. Post all municipal matter on a public media like your local newspaper. Support your local small businesses like your local Canadian newspaper. Stop the pretentious, arrogant attempt to falsely make believe that you care when you clearly don’t. Take these comments to heart and prove that you are listening.

The Death of the North American Free Trade Agreement

The Death of the North American Free Trade Agreement by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East After a series of threats, delays and plenty of territorial trolling thrown in for good measure, President Donald Trump made good on his promised tariffs targeting Canada and Mexico. It is a historic moment that should be understood as the end of NAFTA or now CUSMA, if not yet in law, certainly in practice. As the tariff war heats up, Canada seems quite unprepared to deal with it. Coordination is needed at the national level, but is yet to be seen. Following their recent victory in the Ontario provincial election, the incumbent Conservatives, are hell bent on escalating the tariff war rather than calming things down through negotiations. Acting with feisty bravado, Premier Ford vows to retaliate against the United States issued tariffs with a smile on his face, as he said recently. Certainly, he will need more than a smile to deal with this serious tariffs trade war, which is only just beginning. On the Federal side, we have a care taking Prime Minister who is about to resign in days, making way for an incoming Prime Minister, yet to be sworn in. The House of Commons is prorogued until 24th of March and in the current situation in Canada, a federal election is imminent. With all these events in place, Canada is in a weak position to take action on the seemingly daily tariff threats bombarding us from the United States. Canada’s economy is not in good enough shape to deal with a trade war efficiently. So we need to have strong, effective leadership in place sooner rather than later, to deal with this very serious situation. Considering Canada’s trade relations with other major economic partners that might be of help during these difficult times with the United States, we realize that we are in a very challenging position. Canada’s relations with China are tense. China has brought down another hammer on many Canadian farm and seafood exports, hitting them with a “double trade war” that industry leaders say will slam Canadian producers. Last year, Canada matched U.S. tariffs against Chinese imports, imposing 100 per cent tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, and 25 per cent tariffs on Chinese steel and aluminum imports. When the tariffs on China were announced at a cabinet retreat, the Trudeau government made clear it was moving in lockstep with the Americans against Chinese “overcapacity.” Beijing responded several months later, announcing recently that it will levy a 100 per cent tariff on more than $1 billion worth of Canadian canola oil, meal and pea imports, and a 25 per cent duty on $1.6 billion worth of Canadian aquatic products and pork. The escalation in the tariff war with China is not a good idea, especially since the tariffs imposed on China were an attempt to curry a favour with the United States. And how did that work out for us? The United States and President Trump has been completely indifferent to Canada’s policy towards China, and in fact, he does not seem to have any intention of treating Canada better than China. In fact, President Trump is coming after Canada far more aggressively than he is going against China. Looking at our relations with another economic partner, India, Canada is not in an enviable position there, either. As to the rest of the world, Canadian relations with the European Union are good, but that is hardly helpful. The European Union is also in a difficult economic situation due to the turmoil in Europe and lack of access to cheap energy to prop up their industry. Considering all these factors, we must see that Canada is not in a very good situation. Only a strong and dedicated leadership will be able to take the country out of this mess. With the increased pressure from the South of the border, we are seeing an interesting trend towards unity in Canada and more of a need to recognize Canadian identity and nationalism. In addition, the ivory tower in Ottawa is starting to crumble in the face of this new reality, and the need to look for somebody who is able to challenge the trade salvos from the United States is abundantly clear. The recent Liberal party leadership contest results seem to put Mark Carney forward. He seems to have the qualifications, tools and preparation for such a task if used properly. Despite the disaster created by the previous leader of the Liberal party, Prime Minister Trudeau, the fortunes of the party seem to be on the rise. By now they are basically tied in the polls with the Conservative Party of Canada, the loyal opposition. In order to succeed in the next election, the Conservative Party of Canada, which had a commanding lead just a couple of weeks ago, must come up with new ideas. It will soon become evident whether the Conservative Party, under the leadership of Pierre Poilievre and his advisors, will be able to adjust to this new dynamic reality. Let us hope that they will regroup, and come up with new ideas to strengthen the nation and bring new hope for a Canada strong and free. It is high time they abandoned the worn and beaten to death old slogan of “carbon tax” from the Harper era. These issues are rapidly evolving, and the coming days will be interesting to watch. The dynamic changes are astounding. A new era is about to begin. Time to get excited and get involved, don’t you think?

America’s $29 Trillion Crisis: The National Debt and What Comes Next

America’s $29 Trillion Crisis: The National Debt and What Comes Next By Dale Jodoin Do not be mad at the writer—these are real facts that you can look up. It is just a shame that the world media is ignoring this. If America falls, the world falls, because everybody wants to spend America’s money. The United States is facing a financial crisis that few people are talking about, but it affects every single American—and the entire world. The national debt has skyrocketed to over $29 trillion, and unless something changes, it could lead to serious consequences for the country’s future. The U.S. government has been spending more money than it takes in, running massive deficits year after year. If this trend continues, the nation risks financial instability, higher taxes, and a weaker economy. This crisis didn’t appear overnight—it has been building for decades. However, the situation has worsened under poor economic leadership, with reckless spending and policies that have failed to curb inflation or boost economic growth. Now, the United States must make tough choices: cut government spending, raise tariffs, or find new sources of revenue. The decisions made today will determine whether the country remains a global economic powerhouse or slides into deeper financial trouble. The U.S. national debt is like a giant credit card bill that keeps growing. Every year, the government spends more than it collects in taxes, borrowing money to cover the difference. This is known as the federal deficit. In 2024, the budget deficit reached $1.8 trillion—one of the highest ever recorded outside of wartime or crisis periods. The national debt is now equal to about 99% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), meaning the U.S. owes as much as its entire economy produces in a year. If this pattern continues, the debt could reach $52 trillion within the next decade. The government has been borrowing money from investors, including foreign countries like China and Japan, to fund spending on social programs, military expenses, healthcare, and interest on the debt itself. While some government spending is necessary, the failure to balance the budget has created a dangerous cycle. Instead of paying down the debt when the economy is strong, leaders have continued to borrow even in good times, making the problem worse. In recent years, economic mismanagement has made life harder for everyday Americans. High inflation, reckless spending, and poor policies have driven up the cost of living while weakening the dollar. 1. Inflation and Rising Costs Inflation has eroded the value of Americans’ paychecks. Food, housing, and energy prices have all surged. Instead of making responsible cuts to unnecessary spending, the government has printed more money, fueling inflation even further. 2. High Interest Rates To combat inflation, the Federal Reserve has raised interest rates, making it more expensive for people to buy homes, start businesses, or pay off debt. While higher interest rates help slow down inflation, they also make borrowing more difficult for both consumers and the government. 3. Weak Job Growth and Business Closures Small businesses have struggled under high costs, and major industries have suffered under new regulations and taxes that have hurt growth. Instead of encouraging business expansion, weak economic leadership has stifled innovation and investment. The United States has options to fix the national debt crisis, but they require strong leadership and difficult decisions. Here’s what must happen: 1. Cut Government Spending. The government must reduce unnecessary expenses and find ways to operate more efficiently. This doesn’t mean cutting vital programs, but eliminating waste, fraud, and excessive bureaucracy. Examples include: Reforming entitlement programs to ensure Social Security and Medicare remain sustainable. Reducing government agencies that duplicate efforts and waste taxpayer money. Stopping reckless spending on programs that don’t provide economic benefits. 2. Raise Tariffs to Protect American Industry. One way to boost revenue without excessive taxation is by raising tariffs on foreign goods, especially from countries that take advantage of the U.S. economy. By imposing higher tariffs on cheap imports, America can: Encourage domestic manufacturing, creating more American jobs. Reduce the trade deficit, which has been draining U.S. resources. Generate billions in revenue to help pay off the debt. 3. Grow the Economy Through Pro-Business Policies. Instead of overregulating industries, the U.S. should focus on making it easier for businesses to grow and create jobs. Policies that can help include: Reducing red tape and regulations that prevent small businesses from succeeding. Encouraging energy independence so the U.S. doesn’t have to rely on foreign oil. 4. Balance the Budget Setting strict spending limits. Passing a Balanced Budget Amendment to prevent reckless deficits. Ensuring every dollar spent is accounted for and justified. 5. Reform the Federal Reserve’s Role. The Federal Reserve has played a major role in fueling inflation and economic instability by printing too much money and keeping interest rates too low for too long. The government must: Ensure the Fed prioritizes stable economic growth over political interests. End policies that artificially inflate the economy without real value creation. If the U.S. government fails to act, the consequences will be severe: Even Higher Inflation – Prices will continue to rise, making it harder for people to afford basic necessities. More National Debt – The interest payments on the debt alone will grow, forcing the government to borrow even more. Economic Collapse Risks – If confidence in the U.S. dollar declines, the economy could face a major crisis, leading to job losses and financial instability. Tax Hikes on Everyday Americans – To cover growing costs, the government may be forced to raise taxes on workers and businesses. Global Weakness – If the U.S. can’t manage its economy, other nations (like China) may take advantage of the situation, weakening America’s global influence. The United States is the world’s largest economy and financial powerhouse. The U.S. dollar is the world’s reserve currency, meaning that most countries rely on it for trade and economic stability. If the U.S. economy collapses, global markets will crash. If the dollar weakens, currencies around the world will lose value. If the U.S. can’t pay its debts, other countries will suffer financially. This is why America’s financial crisis is not just a domestic issue—it’s a global emergency. Everyone wants to spend America’s money, but if the U.S. government doesn’t act now, there won’t be any left to spend. The national debt crisis is not just a problem for politicians—it affects every American. If leaders don’t take responsibility, the burden will fall on future generations. It’s time for the U.S. to cut wasteful spending, protect its industries, and focus on sustainable economic growth. The country has faced financial challenges before and emerged stronger, but only when decisive action was taken. If the right steps are not taken today, the United States—and the entire world—risks losing its economic power, its financial stability, and its future prosperity. The time to act is now. Again, do not be mad at the writer—these are real facts that you can look up. It is just a shame that the world media is ignoring this. If America falls, the world falls, because everybody wants to spend America’s money.

ANTI-PATRIOTIC DEMOCRATS

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 America is not about being Democratic or Republican. America is about doing what is best for the population at large. It is about sacrifice in the name of a greater good. This is what makes America the greatest nation on the planet. America strives to champion Democracy. A sacred vehicle that roots our rights and freedoms. What did Plato said about democracy? He claimed that democracy is a danger due to excessive freedom. He also argues that, in a system in which everyone has a right to rule, all sorts of selfish people who care nothing for the people but are only motivated by their own personal desires are able to attain power. This was best shown in the recent display by Democrats during President Trump first public speech. The Democrats with a long standing history of disrespect for the democratic process. With a long standing show of open public defiance toward honoring the democratic process as seen during Trumps first Presidential bid. Where it made International news.... Trump giving his speech to the Nation and Polosi in the background ripping up his speech. Totally disgraceful and totally un-American. She had the right to do that but the poor taste to do it and in the process show her true colors when it comes to her patriotic alliance to no one but her own cause. Anti-patriotism is the ideology that opposes patriotism; it usually refers to those with cosmopolitan views and is usually of an internationalist and anti-nationalist nature as well. Normally, anti-patriotism stems from the belief that patriotism is wrong since people born in a country, whether they like it or not and regardless of their individuality, are encouraged to love the country or sacrifice themselves for it; consequently, people who oppose patriotism may oppose its perceived authoritarianism, while others may believe that patriotism may lead to war because of geopolitical disputes. Usually, this term is used in a pejorative way by those who defend patriotism or nationalism, and terms such as cosmopolitanism or world citizenship may be used to avoid the bias that comes from the typical usage of the words anti-nationalism or anti-nationalist. During the recent Trump speech. He hit various nerves in the reality in the Democratic body. You could feel the tension of ignorance by the number of signs that kept popping up like cowards during points of change. These are the same Democrats that are so pompous on their erroneous beliefs that they will not acknowledge the mistakes they have made that cost them the Presidency as well as any power. Personally, I think Trump made a historical speech that was inclusive of both Democrats interest as well as Republican. Time will tell, if Trump is a man of his word in ‘Making America Great Again’.

AI: The Equalizer of Art, Music, and Science

AI: The Equalizer of Art, Music, and Science Why the Elite Fear It By Dale Jodoin AI: The Equalizer of Art, Music, and Science—Why the Elite Fear It Artificial Intelligence has already become an inseparable part of modern life, and yet, people are terrified of it. Much of this fear doesn’t come from the everyday person, but from those in power—the elite in the music industry, the art world, and even the government. Why? Because AI is changing the game, putting creativity and knowledge back in the hands of the people. The Music Industry: AI as the Great Equalizer For years, the music industry has been accused of exploiting artists and churning out mass-produced songs designed for profit, not passion. With AI stepping in, the industry is panicking, claiming that AI is "stealing music." But the real question is: what music is left to steal? The industry has long abandoned authenticity. Today, a rapper can win a Country Album of the Year award, even if there’s nothing country about it. Rappers have also been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, despite not being rock artists. While rap has its own legends who deserve recognition, the industry has blurred genres to the point where awards no longer mean anything. Then there's Auto-Tune. In the past, great musicians had to actually sing, play instruments, and hone their craft. Now, artists who can’t hold a note get their voices "enhanced" by AI-driven software, run through a computer a hundred times to sound perfect. Albums are no longer made for the love of music but are factory-produced to sell as fast as possible. Real musicians—the ones grinding city after city, playing small venues—are left struggling to make ends meet. Yet AI is giving power back to these independent artists. AI-generated music tools allow musicians to create complex compositions without million-dollar studios. Old-school country and rock fans are now using AI to create music they love, not what the industry tells them to listen to. AI is removing the corporate middleman and allowing people to take back control of music. Shouldn’t an artist who uses AI to create something original have the right to copyright it? If the industry can use AI to enhance bad singers, why shouldn’t regular people use AI to make music better? And let's not forget the hypocrisy of aging rock stars and pop legends who made fortunes decades ago. Now that AI is giving new musicians a shot, they complain about their music being "stolen." But are these artists, who charge anywhere from $200 to $1,000 per ticket, really suffering? Or are they just afraid of losing their monopoly? AI and Art: Who Gets to Decide What’s "Real"? The art world has a similar problem. Critics scoff at AI-generated art, calling it fake or soulless. But what is art if not the expression of an idea? If an artist describes a vision and an AI tool helps bring it to life, does that make it any less meaningful? AI-generated artwork has already proven to be breathtaking. Yet, the elite gatekeepers of the art world, who dictate what is "valuable," are afraid. Why? Because AI allows anyone to create something beautiful. You no longer need an art degree or expensive supplies. The tools are in the hands of the everyday person, not just the wealthy collectors or high-end galleries. Ironically, the same people criticizing AI art have no problem enhancing their own work with digital tools. Almost every photograph is retouched by software, every painting scanned and shared online, yet AI is somehow the villain? The truth is, the art industry doesn’t want the average person to have power. AI takes away their control, and that terrifies them. AI in Science and Medicine: A Force for Good Beyond art and music, AI is transforming medicine. Every day, AI helps design new drugs, diagnose diseases, and develop treatments faster than human doctors alone. AI doesn’t have human bias, doesn’t need sleep, and can process information at speeds no scientist ever could. Consider this: AI has already helped create groundbreaking drugs that are changing lives. Just search for the top five AI-developed drugs today. The results speak for themselves. In a world where medical advancements can take decades, AI is accelerating the process, offering hope to people who would otherwise wait years for a cure. And AI isn’t just helping with physical health—it’s revolutionizing mental health as well. AI-driven programs are assisting people with disabilities, providing therapy, and even giving non-verbal individuals a way to communicate. These aren’t dystopian nightmares; these are real, tangible improvements in human lives. The War Against AI: Who Really Wants to Stop It? So if AI is helping musicians, artists, and scientists, why do some people want to stop it? The answer is simple: power. It’s not the everyday worker or the struggling artist who fears AI—it’s the ones who have controlled everything for decades. Governments and corporations are deliberately limiting AI’s potential, dumbing it down to keep people from accessing its full power. They want AI to be a tool they control, not one that gives power to the people. They spread fear about AI, telling us it will destroy jobs or make humanity obsolete, but they’re only afraid because they know AI will expose their lies and inefficiencies. This fear isn’t new. When the first computers were invented, people said they would ruin society. Now, computers are a part of our everyday lives. When digital art became popular, traditional artists said it would destroy "real" art—yet today, digital and traditional art thrive side by side. AI is just the next step in human evolution. The Future: AI as an Extension of Human Creativity AI is not replacing human creativity—it’s enhancing it. Every song you hear on the radio has already been touched by AI, whether through Auto-Tune or digital production. Every photo you see online has been enhanced by computer algorithms. AI is already here. The only difference is that now, it’s giving power to regular people, not just the industry elite. The real question isn’t whether AI should be part of our lives—it already is. The question is: will we let the rich and powerful control AI, or will we embrace it as the equalizer it was meant to be? Like every other technological revolution, AI is only as dangerous as the hands that control it. In the right hands—the hands of the people—it has the power to bring back real music, real art, and real scientific progress. We shouldn’t fear AI. We should fear those trying to limit it.

COVID ALL OVER AGAIN

COVID ALL OVER AGAIN By Joe Ingino B.A. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Articles Published Columns in Canada and The United States Not even a day had passed, since the announcement of tariffs on imported goods from the United States...and the vultures hit center stage. Can we as a people be that stupid? Is the system so corrupt that they can treat us like such fools?. I guess Trump sees more than he tells when he addresses the 51st state governor Justin Trudeau. This 25% tariff in my opinion is nothing but a brilliant business move by Trump. He is doing it to Mexico, Canada, Ukraine, Panama, Greenland and most of the European Countries. It makes business sense. A way to even out the playing field and force Nations to become part of the world’s most advanced civilization. Here in Canada we are blinded by our own ignorance of the facts all around us. We are becoming a country that has allowed to become invaded from within. From the eat dog eat dog mentality shown in all political parties to the play on national pride. Something long lost and nothing more than a mere historical illusion being played in a society that has lost it’s direction and values. Now, we are at the mercy of a proposition that may make sense. That roots out our most intimate of nationalistic romance. That challenges us to think outside the box and consider becoming and evolving into something much bigger. As Canadians we do not have a clear National conscious. We are confused people that are desperately looking for direction and out of this fogged social mirage. Made up of misconception, forced compliance and never ending fear mongering. Look at the current fiasco. Politicians not knowing how to response to Trump creative business move. Canadian politicians are calling for Canadians to buy Canadian. That the new 25% tariff will create hardships. The question that lingers is? Why have Canadians not been buying Canadian all along. Answer is simple. Many Canadian companies charge much higher prices for the same American counter part. Now that we are being forced to buy Canadian. Do you think prices will go down? With the excuse of the tariff. Prices will continue to escalate. Why is it that the government not putting in place from the 5 Billion seized from Russian business a program to freeze Canadian made goods to the same as those that were brought in from the U.S. No but wait. Our 51 governor rather send that money to fund a loosing war in the Ukraine and force us to pay our way to our economic graves.

Canada at Trade War

Canada at Trade War by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East Canada is facing a serious economic and existential threat from our powerful neighbour, the United States of America. Once seen as a successful trading relationship, reality is now kicking in. On March 4th the United States imposed a 25% tariff on all Canadian goods exported to them except energy of 10%. Since the United States first threatened this trade war in late November, there has been a lot of confusion, misdirection, and wasted time in Canada. As the tariffs finally come into effect, there is a sense that Canada’s response is only being conceived in haste and superficially. A major source of the lag has been a mistaken interpretation of the Trump administration’s motivations. The whole Team Canada campaign involving Prime Minister Trudeau, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, and various other business, civic, and political leaders took for granted that Trump’s tariff threat was best understood as a negotiating tactic. His ultimate intention was not to impose tariffs, but to induce concessions out of Canada on defence, security, and trade. They proved to be wrong. Therefore, Canada spent several months dithering over possible proposals to put on the table that might effectively buy President Trump off. All our politicians seemingly had ideas, but not good ones. Many of them, such as boosting defence spending to 2 percent of GDP, reforming Canada’s asylum policy or liberalizing Canada’s supply-managed sectors were considered good ideas. The problem was that Trump did not really care about any of this stuff. His real motivation, was two-fold: first, to generate tariff revenues to offset tax cuts in the short term and, second, to bring an end to borderless trade on the continent over the longer term. Trump’s goal in short is to effectively abrogate the CUSMA free trade agreement in the name of solving his own budget gap and boosting production in the United States. The Trump-Vance policy bet is that a 25-percent tariff access to the U.S. market will represent such a high economic cost to access the U.S. market that companies will be prepared to absorb the short-term disruption of moving product mandates, production lines, and even entire facilities from Canada and Mexico to the United States. It seems clear that neither the Trudeau government nor the Conservative opposition had the capacity and knowledge to understand this and get prepared. Notwithstanding the various justifications put forward by Trump and his administration, the principal goal of the tariffs is now abundantly clear: pull production out of Canada and Mexico into the U.S. Viewing that our economies are intertwined and 75% of Canadian trade is with the United States, this action might have severe effects on the Canadian economy. Personally, I think a tariff war would be severely detrimental for Canada if Canada tries to reciprocate dollar for dollar. Cooler heads should prevail and further negotiations should be conducted once Canada has a new Prime Minister. However, if the tariffs persist for a longer time, as they are now imposed, they can be expected to have devastating consequences for the Canadian economy. This tariff war will come down hard on Canada’s economy and if tariffs remain in place for one year, the economy will certainly face the risk of a recession. The tariffs are also expected to raise prices, which will add to increased inflation. The two-way trade between Canada and the U.S. is worth $1.3 trillion on an annual basis. Statistics Canada says nearly 1.8 million Canadian jobs, 8.8 per cent of the country’s total employment worked in industries where 35 per cent or more of jobs depended on U.S. demand for Canadian exports. Nearly 1.4 million American jobs are tied to Canadian exports and 2.3 million Canadian jobs are tied to U.S. exports, according to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. As a consequence, we will probably see a rise in overall unemployment, seeing that manufacturing in central Canada will be hit hard, the auto sector in particular. The industry will be impacted on both sides of the border, but more so on the Canadian side. Economists expect Canadian unemployment to rise to eight per cent as the result of the tariffs. The Bank of Canada estimates that a trade war with the United States would cut business investment by 12 per cent and decrease Canadian exports by 8.5 per cent after the first year. The Bank of Canada also estimates Canadian growth would decline by three per cent over the next two years. Bank of Canada governor Tiff Macklem said in a speech last month that there would be no “bounce back” for the Canadian economy, like the one seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. Well these Trump tariffs were just the first round of trade actions promised by the Trump administration, with an additional 25 per cent levy set to be imposed on Canadian steel and aluminum exports on March 12. Trump has also promised to impose “reciprocal” tariffs, which could potentially match Canada’s digital sales tax on April 2. As a consequence, the proper Canadian policy response should not begin and end with retaliatory tariffs. It must instead prepare for a post-CUSMA world. This has various implications for Canadian competitiveness, continental supply chains, and the future of Canada-U.S. relations. The key point is that Canadian policymakers must reorient their understanding of the problem facing the country. We are experiencing a paradigmatic moment for North American integration. Market forces will no longer dictate the distribution of production across the continent. Politics and policy will regrettably play a greater role. Canadian policymakers must catch up and conceive of a vision and agenda to strengthen our cost competitiveness and the case for Canada. We are living in a new, fast-evolving environment and we do not have much time to figure it out. For example, Canada’s energy industry has long been a pillar of our economy, providing jobs, economic growth, and reliable energy. It’s also a key bridge between us and our closest ally to the South. However, the global landscape is shifting rapidly. In recent weeks, it has become clear that our relationship with America has fundamentally changed—and we must act with urgency to focus on Canada’s national interest. Let’s be clear: Canada and the U.S. will always have a close, mutually important trade relationship—immutable laws of geography and economics dictate it. It is impossible for Canada’s energy industry to completely disengage from the world’s largest energy market next door, while also being quite literally tied to it through shared pipelines and infrastructure. However, growing geopolitical uncertainty, rising global energy demand, and intensifying competition mean we can’t afford to be complacent. Since 2015, about $280 billion in energy projects have been cancelled in Canada while competitors have surged ahead. The U.S. has become the world’s top liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter, while Canada’s first major LNG project won’t be operational until mid-2025. These delays cost us not just revenue and jobs, but opportunities.With decisive leadership, smart reforms, and a renewed commitment to investment, we can unlock our full energy potential, support our partners and make new ones, create jobs, and achieve a more secure and prosperous future for all Canadians. The time to act is now.

Canada’s Greatest Betrayal: A Government That Fails Its Own People

Canada’s Greatest Betrayal: A Government That Fails Its Own People By Lisa Robinson Canadians have every reason to be outraged, yet far too many remain silent. The government that claims to work for us has done more harm than any foreign power ever could. We talk about economic warfare—about the 25% tariffs imposed by President Trump—but let’s be honest: the worst economic attack on Canadians has come from within. For years, our government has systematically drained the wealth of its own citizens. Inflation has skyrocketed, making it harder to put food on the table. Poverty is rising, and yet instead of relief, we get more taxes. At every level—federal, provincial, and municipal—our so-called leaders have found new ways to squeeze more money out of us. They claim it’s necessary, that we must pay our “fair share.” But fair to whom? Certainly not to the struggling families being forced out of their homes due to skyrocketing property taxes. Meanwhile, our borders remain wide open. The government spares no expense welcoming illegal immigrants with open arms, providing them with resources while Canadians struggle to afford basic necessities. How is it that we can house and feed those who break our immigration laws, yet we cannot afford to help our own veterans, our seniors, or our working-class families who are barely getting by? And instead of fixing the problem, instead of securing our borders, stopping the flood of drugs, and protecting Canadian lives, our government would rather posture like spoiled children—refusing to act like adults, making everything worse just to avoid admitting Trump is right. If protecting our own country means implementing stricter policies, then do it. Other nations put their people first. Why won’t we? And now, they don’t just want to control our economy and borders—they want to control us. They tell us where to shop, what to buy, where we can travel, all while pretending it’s for our own good. This is government overreach at its worst. Instead of protecting Canadians, they are limiting our choices, our freedoms, and our ability to prosper. It’s no different at the municipal level. Local governments claim they are underfunded, yet wasteful spending is rampant. Public money is thrown at vanity projects, consultants, and bureaucratic bloat, while property taxes continue to rise. And when people start asking too many questions? They silence them. They put rules in place to stop you from recording meetings, from discussing real issues, from seeing what’s actually going on. They don’t want transparency; they want obedience. We saw the same thing during COVID. Instead of offering real help to small businesses, our government let them die. They crushed family-run stores, mom-and-pop shops, and independent businesses, all while letting the corporate giants thrive. If you were a small business owner, you got lockdowns, red tape, and forced closures. If you were Walmart, Amazon, or Costco? Business was booming. The government didn’t just fail small businesses—they chose to let them fail. Where was Team Canada then? And while Canadians struggle to afford gas, groceries, and heating, where is the government? Jacking up the carbon tax—again. On April Fool’s Day, no less. You can’t make this up. While families are drowning in debt and small businesses are closing, this government thinks now is the perfect time to punish people even further. Are Canadians really okay with this? Where is the outrage? This is the frog-boiling method. Slowly, inch by inch, they strip away freedoms while people remain distracted, hoping things will go back to normal. But this is the new normal—unless we wake up and put a stop to it. This isn’t governance. This is exploitation. It’s time Canadians recognize that the greatest threat to our economic survival isn’t coming from abroad—it’s coming from our own elected officials. Councillor Lisa Robinson, “The People’s Councillor”

Quick Fixes That Will Significantly Improve Your Job Search

Quick Fixes That Will Significantly Improve Your Job Search By Nick Kossovan "The devil is in the details" is an idiom highlighting how small details can significantly affect the outcome of something and that attention to detail is the difference between something good and something great. This phrase captures the essence of job search success. A misplaced decimal point on a financial spreadsheet will result in inaccurate reporting. It only takes a minor design flaw to cause a costly recall or safety issues. In personal interactions, eye contact and smiling shape perception. Colour scheme drastically influences the mood of a room or whether you make a fashion statement. Job seekers who meticulously craft their resume, LinkedIn profile, applications, and interview presence will have an edge over those they're competing against. If your resume and LinkedIn profile are full of typos or your voicemail isn't set up, you aren't doing yourself any favours. Misaddressing your interviewer or failing to turn on your camera during a Zoom interview can cost you the job opportunity. When competing against other job seekers just as qualified as you are, some more so, as you are in the current job market, not paying attention to details or your actions will hurt your job search. The most common details overlooked by job seekers: Title your resume file "First Name_Last Name_Resume_Year" [Nick_Kossovan_Resume_2025] This format ensures that your resume is easily recognizable by recruiters and easily searchable in the recruiter's or employer's database, which, I'd ballpark, contains something like 1,689,355 resumes. Save your resume as a PDF file. Saving your resume as a PDF preserves its formatting across all devices, ensuring it appears as you intended, with no changes to margins or layout. Include a link to your LinkedIn profile. Along with your resume prominently displaying your phone number and email address, include a link to your LinkedIn profile.(https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickkossovan/) Make it easy for hiring managers to contact you and to view your LinkedIn profile. The easier you make it for a hiring manager, the more likely they'll consider your candidacy. Proofread relentlessly! Ensure your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile are free of typos and grammatical errors. These documents and your online footprint create your first impression; errors can diminish your credibility and chances of being selected for an interview. Adjust the privacy settings on your social media. Employers will Google you to determine if you're interview-worthy. If you're hired, your new colleagues will also Google you and look you up on Facebook, X/Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, etc. To avoid having your social media activity being misconstrued, except for LinkedIn, your privacy settings so only your followers can see your activity. Always dress to impress. You never know who you might encounter when you're out and about, and you only get one chance to make a good first impression. Whether you like it or not, we live in a world where we judge a book by its cover—we assess visual cues—we always have and always will. I've missed out on many possible opportunities because I left my house not looking my best. One time, I was waiting in line at a coffee shop dressed "comfortably" when a friend sitting in a booth called out to introduce me to the COO of a national transportation company he was meeting with. Although the COO was friendly, the introduction didn't lead anywhere; I believe it was due to my lack of credible appearance. Dressing well not only boosts your confidence but also earns you respect. Always carry a pen, a small notebook, and copies of your resume. As I mentioned, you never know who you might meet or whether you'll want to share your contact information or take notes. Having a pen and paper on hand demonstrates that you're prepared (read: on top of your game) and professional. A further step to "being prepared" is always having a few copies of your resume. A few years ago, during an intermission at a community theatre production, I struck up a conversation with a man who, it turned out, was looking for a workforce manager position. Although I didn't have an opening, I knew someone who did. He went to his car, retrieved a copy of his resume, and handed it to me, which I passed along to the person I knew who was searching for a workforce manager. Yes, he got the job. Carefully consider the questions you ask. Voltaire said, "Judge a man by his questions rather than by his answers." Your questions during an interview reveal a great deal about you. Steer clear of asking irrelevant or self-serving questions, such as, "How many sick days do you offer?" or, "When will my benefits start?" Instead, inquire about the specific responsibilities, challenges, and goals of the role. Ask questions that demonstrate genuine interest in how you can contribute to the team's success. Lastly, never ask for an expectation! Questions such as "I understand this position requires me to work in the office every day. Is it possible to work from home on Thursdays and Fridays?" will eliminate you from consideration. Succeeding in today's highly competitive job market requires paying close attention to details and your actions. ___________________________________________________________________ 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

When Prosecuting Imaginary Crime Promotes Real Crime

When Prosecuting Imaginary Crime Promotes Real Crime by Thomas L. Knapp On February 26, ABC News reports, Europol announced the arrest of 25 individuals it accuses of being "part of a criminal group engaging in the distribution of images of minors fully generated by artificial intelligence." Again, for emphasis: "Fully generated by artificial intelligence." Yes, sexual abuse of children is a horrific crime. Yes, those who engage in it are criminals. But can imaginary characters be "minors?" And are fictional depictions of those characters being victimized really "crimes?" Over the years, politicians and law enforcement agencies have increasingly exploited such claims to groom the public into moral panic at the expense of REAL children suffering REAL sexual abuse in REAL life. It's a pretty simple con. Most people rightly find the sexual molestation of children horrifying. They want it stopped. They want the perpetrators brought to justice. But investigating and proving real crimes is hard work. Police departments would rather run sting operations with fake victims -- cops posing online as minors available for sex -- for easy arrests and good publicity, than put their officers to the more difficult (and expensive) task of conducting real investigations and tracking down real criminals. Prosecutors would rather try those cases, which require no evidence of an actual victim or an actual crime, than have to present a real victim, a real perpetrator, and real proof to a jury. Politicians live in perpetual need of gut-wrenching topics to virtue signal to voters about, and since real child molestation and real child porn are already illegal, they make do with promoting new laws against fake child molestation, fake child porn, "child-like" sex dolls, etc. ... and, as noted above, entirely fictional material "fully generated by artificial intelligence." None of this makes our children any safer -- the real problems aren't going away and for all we know might even be getting worse -- but it's great for law enforcement budgets and helps politicians herd panicked voters to the polls. Your tax dollars at work, folks. And here's the thing: While the legal availability of AI-generated child pornography, "child-like" sex dolls, etc., wouldn't eliminate real child sexual abuse, it would probably reduce the incidence. Put another way, at least SOME pedophiles are probably prone to settle for fantasy, especially if the difference between fantasy and reality is the difference between freedom and imprisonment. If they face prison either way, more of them will opt to really molest real children instead of fantasize that they're molesting fake children. And to put it a third way: Those who support laws against "fully generated by artificial intelligence" child porn objectively support more real child porn, and more of the crimes that go into its creation. That's reality, not a story "fully generated by artificial intelligence.

My Old House - Part Four

My Old House - Part Four By Theresa Grant Real Estate Columnist I am sure I cannot be the only one that this has happened to. When I bought my current house, it was wall to wall light greyish blue. I was not a fan. Especially given that house I was coming from was exactly that colour from top to bottom when I purchased it. I spent the better part of a year redoing the colours in that house only to find them hugging the walls of my new house. So, I went to a store in Oshawa and purchased a beautiful creamy white for the kitchen. It went on more like a soft yellow. Absolutely beautiful. Then, I moved on to the earthy cocoa colours for the living room. I did the front hall in a seafoam green, and it is beautiful but too much to carry through to the living room. I then decided that because the living room is open onto the kitchen I would simply get more of that beautiful creamy white for the living room. Well, I went back to the store, showed the girl the picture of the top of the can which I had specifically saved for just such an occasion. I was told that they had reconfigured their computer for paint matching, and Behr had also made changes over the last couple of years to their line, so she would have to start the matching process from scratch. At first, I thought oh no, this is not going to work but then I saw the shade and it looked pretty good so I went with it. Well, I’m not exactly sure what the issue was but the guys painted the creamy colour over the cocoa and of course it’s always a two-coat job even when companies claim total coverage in one coat. I have yet to see that. After two coats, the fellow came to me and said that it really didn’t look good and needed a third coat. I looked at it and whole heartedly agreed. It looked terrible. Streaky and patchy. He went ahead and put on a third coat and to my dismay it was still terrible. Would you believe that this room actually needed six coats of paint to give it a finished well covered look! I was shocked. Given that I have another floor and a few odd rooms here and there still to paint. I will now be looking for the best quality paint out there. I will also be very cognizant of lighter colours going on top of darker colours, and how much paint that actually takes. Happily, they finished the final coat of creamy white in the living room today. So, it’s on to the laundry room!

Finding A Need To Make Independent Living Easier For Autistic Individuals

Finding A Need To Make Independent Living Easier For Autistic Individuals by Kadin McElwain: Finding A Need To Make Independent Living Easier For Autistic Individuals Independent living can be hard for individuals that are on the autism spectrum. Home cleaning can be a struggle to manage, paying bills can feel like the equivalent of pulling teeth, and hygiene can feel like a chore. While one could argue that all individuals experience this at first when they are younger, it can be different for autistic individuals. That’s why with these need-finding interviews, I decided to see what the autism community would need in order to help them better manage independent living. This will ensure that all individuals, no matter what they’re going through, get an equal chance at success in the adult world. My goal was to interview people about this topic, all within the autism or independent living industries. I came up with a plan to ask these three questions mainly: 1. What can autistic individuals find difficult about independent living? 2. What can autistic individuals do now to help them remember their independent living tasks? 3. What technologies, if improved, can make an impact on autistic individuals living independently? All of these interviews were conducted on Facebook Messenger between Monday, February 24th, and Wednesday, February 26th. My first interview was with the CEO of Autism Rocks And Rolls, Sam Mitchell. Mitchell is on the autism spectrum himself and is a college student living independently in a dorm at the University of Indiana, all while running a successful non-profit and podcast. For the first question regarding what autistic individuals may find difficult about independent living, Mitchell stated that “they can find many of the behind the scenes of running a house way too overwhelming such as maintaining bills and staying on top of dishes and laundry” and may also find being alone difficult as “there’s no one else in the house such as parents or a spouse”. For the second question regarding which technologies individuals on the spectrum can use now to help them with their routines, Mitchell suggested that autistic individuals use “visual implementations such as calendars and charts” and “setting alarms to remind themselves of the task ahead (despite it being annoying)”. For the third and final question regarding which technologies should be improved to help autistic individuals succeed in independent living, Mitchell suggested improving “schedules on tablets”, Amazon Alexa, noise cancellation headphones, and AI applications. Looking at Mitchell’s responses, we see that the most common concerns for autistic individuals when it comes to living independently are loneliness, sensory issues, and remembering which tasks need to get done at which time. But if we improve scheduling applications, voice interface technologies, and continue implementing the use of AI into these routines, we can make sure that autistic adults feel comfortable in the sense of independent living. From what I was able to observe in responses, the most common concerns for autistic individuals who are living independently are being able to pay the bills, sensory issues, and loneliness. Autistic individuals can use calendar applications, AI, and voice interface devices to help them get their tasks done, but wearable devices, smart-home devices, calendar apps, or even the tax process can all be greatly improved or simplified to be more sensory-friendly and easy to understand. That’s why my vision for this project is to make an application that incorporates a way to pay the bills and file taxes in one-click, a calendar feature that makes it easy for you to remember your chores for the day, and an automated security system that can keep you safe, among other features. With my application, all autistic individuals will be able to properly live up to their potential. It will also help reduce the stress of living independently.

Facts and Myths about Kidney Stones

By W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford Margaret Thatcher, the resolute British Prime Minister known as the "Iron Lady" famously said, “You may have to fight a battle more than once to win it." But for the millions who endure the excruciating torture of passing a kidney stone, just once is enough. About 50 per cent of those who form one stone will feel the pain again within five years. Those who develop two or more stones will form others on an average of every 2.5 years. Kidney stones are crystals that develop on the inside lining of the kidney. The chronic irritation of these crystals may cause blood to appear in the urine. But major trouble begins when the accumulated deposit, the "stone", breaks loose. If big enough, it becomes trapped in the ureter, the small tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. Renal colic is the term used to describe the sudden, acute pain that occurs when the stone blocks the urinary tract and the muscles of the ureter contract in an attempt to move it along. Heredity plays a major role in the formation of kidney stones. The vast majority are composed of calcium salts. These are necessary for normal body metabolism and must be flushed out in the urine every day. Due to heredity, some people absorb more calcium from food, causing a high concentration of urinary calcium and the potential for stone formation. But calcium consumption is not generally the problem. Rather, high salt intake is more frequently associated with increased stone formation. Obesity, diabetes, and recurrent urinary tract infections are also risk factors. Treatment of kidney stones depends on the type. The less common stones of uric acid are, as stones go, rather friendly. The crystals are so soluble that even a big stone can be dissolved with oral bicarbonate (main ingredient of baking soda) and drinking plenty of water. No other stone is so cooperative, and an attack of great pain is the unwelcome onset of a crisis. People suffering from renal colic usually require hospital treatment. With medical assistance most stones are eventually passed in the urine. Trapped stones are located by an optical instrument called the cystoscope which is inserted into the bladder. A basket-like device is then threaded up the ureter to grab the stone. If this fails surgery is required. What else is to be avoided? It’s the use of antibiotics for longer than three weeks. This may cause an overgrowth of bacteria that possess a special enzyme, urease. This enzyme makes the urine very alkaline and may trigger the formation of struvite stones. This type of stone can fill the entire kidney causing severe renal damage. There’s been an ongoing myth for years that large doses of vitamin C cause kidney stones. It’s hard to know how these falsehoods get started. But the very opposite is true. The fact is that vitamin C increases urine flow, results in a slightly acidic urine, and prevents calcium from binding to oxalate causing calcium oxalate stones, the most common type of kidney stone. Experts in nutrition may know this interesting finding. In 1946, Dr. William McCormick wrote, “I have observed that a cloudy urine is generally associated with a low vitamin C status. But as soon as vitamin C is given (500 to 2,000 milligrams) the urine sediment clears in a matter of hours.” Because of this myth some people are missing out on the other benefits of vitamin C. Benjamin Disraeli, another former charismatic Prime Minister, once remarked, “There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics.” There should be a fourth: “myths”. 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

Snowflakes

Snowflakes

By Wayne & Tamara This one is on behalf of my best friend. My friend feels her mother-in-law is a terrible grandmother who falls far short of her expectations. She adores dogs and shows them more love and affection than her own grandchildren. My friend often compares this woman to her own mother who dotes on the children. Sometimes my friend tells her mother-in-law directly what she thinks of her, and she cries. Her husband does not feel his mother is a loving grandmother, but he loves his mum and wants a peaceful life. Coincidentally I have a similar setup with my in-laws. They have more time for animals--dogs, cats, and goats--and show them more love and affection than their grandchildren. They are more inclined to help the needy, like handicapped and poor people. However, my husband and I accept it is their choice to live as they wish, and we are always polite and respectful to them. I've encouraged my children to accept them as they are, which they do. We made a lot of effort to fit in with my husband's family over the past decade, but now are less interested as it is only one way. We visit a few times a year, but that is not an issue as we live 100 miles away. We're expected to call from time to time, but conversations are restrained as we honestly don't have interest in each other's lives. I ask questions like, Have you been to a goat show lately? But they ask none in return, not even How are the children? That's just how they are. I feel my friend is competing with her mother-in-law, trying to prove she's bad and her mum's better. What do you suggest? Once again my friend is due to tell her mother-in-law how disappointed she is in her. Sybil Sybil, there is a translation of Lao Tzu by Witter Bynner which contains these words. "As the soft yield of water cleaves obstinate stone, so to yield with life solves the insoluble…. But this unworded lesson, this easy example, is lost upon men." You've learned to expect no more from your in-laws than they are prepared to offer, and that is the mark of a wise person. In addition, your children accept them on their own terms. This is a boat not to rock. Your friend is attempting the impossible. She has an idea of the ideal grandmother, and she is determined to make her mother-in-law conform to that ideal. It's like trying to hold back the tide or make the wind obey. She should be grateful her children have one grandmother who meets her expectations. Those children are going to spend their lives dealing with a variety of people in a real world. They need to accept reality and understand people for who they are. That is a far more valuable practice than expending energy trying to make people conform to our mental image. This is one area where supporting your friend does everyone a disservice. Wayne & Tamara A Zealot My husband's brother wrote a letter to my husband a few years ago. The letter stated that my husband was soon to die--he has heart problems--and should make his peace with the Lord. This brother-in-law is a religious fanatic, but I think he was out of place writing the letter. My husband laughed it off, but I cannot get over it. We will be seeing this brother-in-law at a wedding next month. How should I handle this? Wilma Wilma, Winston Churchill said, "A fanatic is one who won't change his mind and won't change the subject." Your husband understands this, and that is why he laughed it off. If you confront your brother-in-law at the wedding, you will look ridiculous. People will excuse him because he doesn't know better, but they will wonder, what's your excuse? Wayne & Tamara 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.

Special Education Reform: Its Main Issues And The Efforts To Improve It

Special Education Reform: Its Main Issues And The Efforts To Improve It by Kadin McElwain: Special Education Reform: Its Main Issues And The Efforts To Improve It Dr. Temple Grandin, an autistic scientist and advocate for autism, once said “In special education, there’s too much emphasis placed on the deficit and not enough on the strength”. This is the case with the current special education system. In the United States today, 1-in-32 children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder every year and have most likely needed special education services (Talantseva et al, 2020). As an autistic individual, I had special education services from 7 to 17 years old and I have seen firsthand the flaws of the special education system. But a new and powerful movement, the Special Education Reform Movement, is working to help improve the special education system, so that all students can have a fair chance at a proper education. In this speech, you’ll learn how schools don’t fund special education enough, how this connects to the rate of those diagnosed with autism every year, and what’s being done by organizations to ensure that the special education system is improved for its students. Firstly, many of us, whether we are the parent of a special needs child or we know an individual that has autism or another disability, have had to deal with the frustration of schools not funding special education enough or even cutting a student’s IEP completely in the name of saving money. Yet, in the state of Ohio alone in 2009, schools received $323 million in taxes to fund their programs and make conditions suitable for students. (Sullivan and Sobul, 2010). Exactly a decade later, in 2019, Ohio’s academic spending went to $8.79 billion, with the school system investing only $675 million towards special education, failing to realize the cost of speech therapy, communication devices, curriculum, school supplies, and fidget toys for every child (Ohio Coalition for The Education Of Children with Disabilities, 2020). This leads to an even bigger problem: Corrupt schools that cut the IEPs of special needs individuals in the name of saving money. I remember a time in middle school when my IEP was cut without my parents’ consent, and this caused them to fight long and hard to get it implemented again. But when considering the funding rate for special education, the rate of autism in children is another important factor to consider. The rate of autism in the United States is one-in-thirty-two, up from two-to-four-in-ten thousand back in the 60’s and 70’s, meaning that out of at least 32 audience members listening today, at least one may be on the spectrum (Boat and Wu, 2015). With today’s technology, we are able to easily diagnose autism and get individuals the help they need to thrive in academic settings, with one notable example being an AI-based screening software that can easily detect the signs of autism in children (Abdelrahim et al, 2025). But schools still don’t know or choose not to get students the help they need and this sometimes results in these students being excluded from classes. In Australia specifically, according to a 2023 study, 9.4 percent of autistic students have missed a day of school due to school exclusion, or being forced to stay home from school because schools don’t have enough funding for accommodations (Gray et al, 2023). In the United States, that number is 50 percent, meaning that half of the country’s special needs students are missing out on the education that they are entitled to because schools don’t know how to manage helping these students given skyrocketing diagnosis rates (Sasso and Sansour, 2024). But fortunately for those one-in-thirty two, actions are being taken to better special education. You might’ve heard of organizations such as Autism Speaks and the Autism Society of America, but multiple groups and individuals in both the state of Ohio and throughout the United States have taken the initiative to ensure that all students get a fair chance at a proper and ethical education, with many sometimes not making the Nightly News. One example of such a group is Disability Rights Ohio, which advocates for the end of abusive seclusion practices, or isolating the autistic child in a room by themselves when they act out. Thanks to their efforts, which included lobbying and rallying, the Ohio Department of Education established a law limiting the use of these practices in 2013, meaning that students can go to school without the fear of being isolated from their peers (Disability Rights Ohio, 2015). Another example of special education advocacy is becoming a lawyer that specializes in special education cases specifically. A lot of these individuals have worked with individuals with disabilities before, including as social workers, and even are autistic themselves, showing that they truly believe in the cause (Weber, 2023). This shows that even though this cause isn’t in the Nightly News every night, Special Education Reform is just as much of a worthy cause as any other social issue today. To conclude, Special Education Reform is a cause that, while not as headline-grabbing as other issues in our society, is still making an impact on the community. The schools in the United States misunderstand the importance of investing more funding into special education programs, especially given the rate of autism in children every year. But work is being done by various groups to ensure that these students get the education that they deserve. It’s easy not to care about a cause, just because it’s not on the Nightly News. But if we remember Dr. Grandin’s words and focus on both the strength and the deficit equally, we can ensure that all of our students, no matter what they’re going through or their background, get the quality education that they are entitled to.