Electronic Communication Gadgets and Smartphones -- Posing Danger for the New Generation

Electronic Communication Gadgets and Smartphones -- Posing Danger for the New Generation by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East The central news in the country currently surrounds the imminent election, a crucial election, because it will define the future of Canada. With all this election action swirling around us, it is still important to note how the explosion of devices dedicated to mass communications are influencing the way in which the next generation will be raised and influenced to behave. The introduction of electronic communication devices, especially smartphones, and with it, ubiquitous social media usage, are clearly key factors in the rise in youth mental health issues seen across the world. There is considerable evidence linking social media use to youth mental health issues. In response, Canada and other countries have developed some policies to deal with social media use among young people, but there are more practical options that Canadian policy-makers could take. Youth mental health issues have been on the rise since the early 2010s, especially among girls, with significant increases in depression, anxiety, and self-harm. In Canada, rates of depressive and anxiety disorders have climbed notably among those aged 15 to 24. This widespread pattern is not limited to Canada, but is apparent across the Anglosphere, which indicates that there is likely some global factor driving the decline in youth mental health. These negative trends are driven in particular, by social media use. There is a lack of personal contact among youth in this age group, who rely more and more on illusory cyberspace meetings, presenting a false reality. These days, time spent on social media often replaces in-person interaction, exposes users to damaging content, and leads some to interpret normal distress as symptoms of mental health. Recent studies suggest that one to two hours of daily social media use is associated with good mental health, but mental health deteriorates as use increases beyond that. The preponderance of the evidence indicates that social media is a major contributor to, and likely a leading cause of, declining mental health among young people. Governments worldwide have started to regulate children’s social media usage, often by tackling “online harm” with policies that try to moderate the content posted on these platforms. However, these efforts, such as Canada’s proposed Online Harms Act, which would impose strict punishments for “hate” offences and empower judges to restrict the movement of anyone who could commit an online hate crime in the future, often infringe on privacy and free expression. Legislation itself will not be able to limit the damages if not accompanied by a healthy system of education, incumbent upon the various board of educations, teachers themselves, and society as a whole. Given the implication of legislating, against the freedom of speech and undue censorship, Canada should find a way to effectively deal with the problem without infringing on these inalienable rights in a free and democratic system. Specifically, Canada should do this through strengthening the educational system in which our youth are spending extended periods of time. It would be advisable to strengthen bans on cellphone and social media use in schools, raise awareness of the downsides of social media, and reorient childhood around free play instead of focusing on screen time. Like any complex social phenomenon, there are likely multiple significant causal factors at play. However, the introduction of smartphones, and with it, ubiquitous social media usage, are clearly key factors in the rise in youth mental health issues seen across the world. To safeguard the mental health of its young, Canada should act now and pursue immediate policies that mitigate social media’s harms as prudently as possible. It is also important to involve parents in this process and much more cooperation and engagement is required from the various bodies of education. It is crucial to involve parents because they have the ultimate responsibility for the future of their children. A symbiosis between the bodied of education, individual teachers and parents is essential in this process of limiting the effects of social media on the mental health of our growing young people. A common sense approach has to be established on this issue. Politicians can legislate to infinity, but life cannot be legislated, it just takes its course. Reflecting upon all this, I do hope that the upcoming election will not create an additional factor, causing adult mental health issues. Good luck and be sure to vote!

Is Canada Still the Country We Thought It Was?

Is Canada Still the Country We Thought It Was? By Dale Jodoin Over the past two decades, many Canadians have noticed something changing. The country feels less united, less fair, and more dangerous. Across schools, courtrooms, and political offices, a growing number of people are asking: Is this still the Canada we were promised? From weak school systems to unequal justice and a rising wave of climate extremism, some say Canada is heading down a troubling path. Across the country, teachers are struggling to keep control in classrooms. Over the years, school systems have shifted their focus—from discipline and structure to emotional comfort. Some students now feel free to yell, act out, or even threaten others without facing serious consequences. "Respect is gone in many classrooms," says one retired educator. "Students are told they’re always the victim, so they don’t take responsibility for bad behavior." As a result, many young people are growing up without learning how to follow rules, listen to others, or work through problems peacefully. This has led to more conflict—not only in schools, but also later in life. Canada’s legal system was built on the idea that everyone is equal under the law. But more people are beginning to feel that justice isn’t being served fairly. In some cases, the punishment depends more on who you are than what you did. Certain groups seem to get lighter sentences, while others face harsher ones. Scam artists, repeat criminals, and violent offenders are often released back into the community with little punishment. This has caused many Canadians to lose faith in the justice system. When people don’t trust the courts, they may feel they need to solve problems on their own. Canada’s political leaders once focused on building roads, creating jobs, and protecting families. Today, many seem more focused on headlines and global image. Regular people say they feel left behind—especially those in rural areas or working-class neighborhoods. While taxes rise and living costs grow, Canadians see billions spent on programs that often don’t help them. Many believe politicians care more about big business, foreign interests, or social media trends than about the average citizen. One small business owner shared: “It feels like the people in charge don’t even live in the same country we do.” Caring for the planet is a good thing. Most Canadians agree we need to reduce pollution and protect nature. But a growing number of people have turned climate action into something more dangerous. Radical groups have started vandalizing businesses, attacking pipelines, and even threatening people with different opinions. These acts aren’t peaceful protests—they’re attacks. Yet many politicians and media outlets avoid calling them out. “When you can’t question something without being silenced or punished, it becomes like a religion,” one analyst said. “And when people act on it with violence, that’s extremism.” Canada is not prepared for this new kind of domestic threat. Law enforcement often backs off. Politicians avoid speaking up. But the damage is real—jobs lost, property destroyed, and public fear on the rise. There is growing concern that young Canadians who still believe in fairness, law, and order will eventually give up on the system. They may stop voting. They may stop speaking out. Some may even feel forced to take action into their own hands when no one else will. That is when a country becomes unstable. “When good people stop believing the rules work, things fall apart fast,” said one retired police officer. “And that’s where we’re headed if we don’t fix this.” Can Canada Still Be Saved? Yes—but change needs to happen now. Schools must return to discipline, structure, and respect. Justice must be equal and fair for all—no matter your background. Leaders must listen to regular Canadians, not just activists or corporations. And Canada must be brave enough to deal with violent climate extremists the same way it handles any other threat. Canada is not just a flag or a place on a map. It’s an idea—one built on fairness, safety, and opportunity. But if we lose those values, we lose the country. There is still time to make things right. But it will take strong voices, open eyes, and a public that refuses to stay silent.

Remove the Barriers That Are Preventing You From Finding a Job

Remove the Barriers That Are Preventing You From Finding a Job By Nick Kossovan I'm partial to the words of the 13th-century Persian poet Rumi: "Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it." Daly, I see job seekers constructing barriers that scream, "I'm unemployable!" Whether they’re unaware of how their actions are hindering their job search or believe the world should accept them as they are, many job seekers are their own worst enemy. When faced with rejection, they claim that employers are unfair, biased, and engaging in some form of discrimination instead of considering whether their actions are a contributing factor to their challenges in finding employment. The most common self-imposed obstacles (barriers) I see: Sense of Entitlement When it comes to job searching, the number one self-created barrier is having a sense of entitlement, which turns off employers. You're not owed a job because you have what you consider are "qualifications." A humble attitude and a strong work ethic—evidenced by measurable results— make a positive impression on employers. Therefore, the first step to improving your job search odds is to embrace a humble mindset and lose any sense of entitlement you may have. Unrealistic Expectations "It's your own expectations that hurt you. Not the world you live in." - Jacque Fresco, American futurist (1916 - 2017) Many job seekers enter the job market with a laundry list of demands influenced by their sense of entitlement. They expect a six-figure salary, remote work, and a 30-hour workweek, ignoring three truisms: 1. The world doesn't owe you anything, a job, a living, happiness. All must be earned on the terms set by social norms, market forces and others (e.g., employers). 2. There's always someone younger, more skilled and hungrier than you. You're not an employer's "must-have." 3. The golden rule: Whoever has the gold makes the rules. Being realistic and accepting of what you can expect and what you're worth in today's job market—a free market—in which remote jobs are harder to find and land, your compensation ask may be too high for the value to claim you'll bring to the employer and employers aren't quick to hire will expedite your job search. Bashing Employers on Social Media It's well-known that recruiters and employers will review your digital footprint to determine if you're interview-worthy. Yet, despite knowing this, there's a trend, fueled by a sense of entitlement, of publicly bashing employers on social media platforms, especially LinkedIn. Publicly bashing employers does three things: 1. Raises a red flag. 2. Shows a lack of emotional control. 3. Labels you as someone who can't handle setbacks gracefully. A negative digital footprint only serves to isolate you from potential employers. An Incomplete LinkedIn Profile Your online presence makes or breaks your job search. A LinkedIn profile with no profile picture, a blank banner, typos, grammatical errors and lacking quantifiable achievements says, "This person isn't serious about their career." Failing to create a polished, engaging profile, knowing recruiters and employers will review and judge, raises the question: Why is the person deliberately hindering their job search and career success? Lack of Networking "Everything you want in life is a relationship away." ? Idowu Koyenikan, Wealth for All: Living a Life of Success at the Edge of Your Ability. It's common knowledge that most job openings are filled through referrals and personal connections. Knowing this reality, if you're not networking, you're choosing to miss out on the countless opportunities around you right now; however, the opportunities are linked to people; thus, the more people you get to know, the more opportunities you'll get to know. The best book for learning how to network effectively: How to Win Friends and Influence People - Dale Carnegie Lack of Flexibility Despite dwindling white-collar jobs and ongoing layoffs, some job seekers stubbornly hold out for their "perfect" job. While knowing what you want is important, being too rigid ignores the reality that the job market is free, where employers, as per the golden rule, hold the power. Given today's conditions, temper your "wants" and consider contract work or part-time positions, which can provide valuable experience, networking opportunities, and some income. Taking a step backward or sideways can be a wise career strategy. Trust me, having a job is better than not. Believing the World Owes You Acceptance The end goal of a job search is to find an employer (read: hiring manager) who accepts you. However, the world owes you nothing, including acceptance. Expecting to be liked or approved of can lead to resentment and bitterness, complicating your job search. Vulnerability is essential in this process. If you approach it with a mindset of entitlement, disappointment will follow, leading to unnecessary stress and anxiety—mental barriers you don't need. Employers seek problem solvers, not victims. Shift your focus from what you think you deserve to what you can offer. Job searching is challenging enough without adding unnecessary barriers, essentially being your own worst enemy. Removing the aforementioned barriers and taking full responsibility for your actions and perceptions will place you in a much better position to achieve job search success. ___________________________________________________________________ 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

The Interview

The Interview By Theresa Grant Real Estate columnist If, at some point you decide to list your house for sale, you may choose to enlist the guidance and expertise of a realtor. If so, it is important to not only choose the right one for you but also know how to. Many people know at least one, and in some cases a person may know several real estate agents so it may just be a matter of choosing which one they will pick to represent them in their transaction. It is the people that really don’t know any realtors to speak of that need to follow another process. That is the good old fashioned interview process. Deciding on a realtor to handle your transaction is very important because it is often the biggest transaction of your life involving a great deal of money, and many moving parts – no pun intended. One of the best ways to go about this is to use the same method that you might use if you were hiring a contractor to do some work for you. Most people subscribe to the three-quote theory. They have three different people or companies come in, do an assessment and provide a quote on the work to be done. The same is advised when hiring a relator to list and sell your home. No different than a contractor, you would want to know how much experience that person has in the type of work you’re looking to have done. You would also want to see examples of work that the contractor has done previously so you can determine if that contractor would be a good fit for what you are looking to have done. You definitely want to make sure the person you are going to hire will do the work at the price you want to pay. Keeping in mind, all things are negotiable. Some people are not aware that you can negotiate a commission price with the realtor. That is one reason that you want to interview more than one realtor. It is never up to the realtor to choose the listing price of a home, that is strictly up to the home owner. That being said, a realtor is there to provide information that will help you determine the best asking price for your home. Some advice on finding a realtor would be to call three different brokerages. You can google real estate brokerages in your area. Set appointments for three agents, one from each brokerage, to come and visit you at your home. They will do some background work prior to arriving so they have a package to present to you upon arrival. Remember, you are in the driver’s seat here. You can formulate some important questions to ask each agent. Allow the agents to present their materials to you. Don’t feel awkward to come right out and ask each agent why they think you should hire them. After all this is a real job interview. They are asking you to hire them for this task, it is only fair that you should ask, why you? At the end of the process, you should have a pretty good idea of who fits the bill to you your liking, and who you feel most comfortable with. Remember, you are forging a relationship here, you want to make it a good one.

THE BURDEN ON LOCAL TAXPAYERS CONTINUES TO GROW **INCREASED GOVERNMENT SPENDING & THE 2025 SUNSHINE LIST **

By Dean Hickey IT MUST BE ACKNOWLEDGED that the unrestrained liberty of City and Regional governments to spend your money in ever increasing fashion has hitherto failed to produce that state of utopia which might perhaps be expected by already overburdened taxpayers. The insatiable desire among some elected officials, and even more high ranking bureaucrats, for the advancement of Big Government has always existed, indeed now more than ever. This week we take a look at a few examples which highlight the value of your never-ending contributions towards the great municipal piggy-bank which keeps the wheels turning, both at Oshawa city hall and in the corridors of that gleaming palace known as Durham Regional Headquarters. COST OF HERITAGE OSHAWA REPORTS RISE 400% IN THREE YEARS An example of what may be considered as nothing less than a spectacular increase in government spending exists at the Heritage Oshawa committee. Part of their mandate is to request evaluations on properties of historical significance to the community, usually with a view to seeking a designation under the Ontario Heritage Act. As recently as 2021, the costs associated with a typical ‘Heritage Report’ were on average around $1200, however due to increased technical and other requirements demanded by the Ontario government, costs have risen by at least 400% since that time, and are now in the range of $5,000 to $8000 each. The rationale for this increase is an apparent effort by the Province to avoid what they see as unnecessary delays in approving new developments, particularly where a structure of historic value currently exists. Accordingly, they have made the process much more difficult and expensive for municipalities to undertake. As a result, Heritage Oshawa is now burdened with a reliance on costly outside consultants, such as Archaeological Research Associates Ltd., which operates out of Hamilton. The ability of the committee to purchase ‘Heritage Research Reports’ is of course already extremely limited due to spending constraints, and last year only two such documents were submitted to city Council for consideration. These included an examination of one of Oshawa’s earliest known pre-confederation dwellings still in existence, undertaken at the request of the property owners themselves. Regrettably, those same property owners – after having received the report – advised the committee of their complete opposition to any heritage designation. To the committee’s credit, they did move forward, regardless, by recommending to Council that the dwelling, “be designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act.” However, most councillors seemed intent on bringing the hammer down on the process followed by Heritage Oshawa rather than concentrating on the merits of helping to protect a valuable piece of local history. Ward 4 Regional councillor Rick Kerr offered this rebuke to the committee: “I fully support the homeowners’ position, and it’s a pity that it’s gone this way in terms of cost… Perhaps some communication can be made with Heritage Oshawa to be upfront and fulsome in the first place, in future.” Oh dear. Regardless of the increase in costs to procure such a report, this was clearly a case of taxpayer dollars having been spent in earnest without any tangible results. REGIONAL FINANCING STRATEGY FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING Recently, Regional councillors received a report from their Commissioners of Finance and Social Services, recommending a 10-year strategy on investments in affordable housing – among other initiatives. The implications on the property tax levy will be based on a 2025 capital program of no less than $270 Million on projects ranging from $4 Million energy retrofits to $25 Million for affordable housing redevelopments in Oshawa. Among those figures is a projected eight-year capital spending forecast of almost $2 Billion, if you can somehow get your head around that. We’re all aware of the principle that individuals living on low incomes face limited housing options and are always at an increased risk of becoming homeless. That’s the fundamental basis for government spending on social housing initiatives throughout the Region, however, the problems and cost-overruns associated with anything that is outside the private sector are commonplace. Take as an example, the Beaverton Supportive Housing complex that was finalized by the Region late last year. Home to only 47 previously unsheltered people, this facility was initially budgeted at $13.5 Million but ended up costing taxpayers a whopping $24 Million to complete. A further illustration of tax dollars seemingly left to blow out an open window may be seen in Whitby, at the new low-barrier homeless shelter known as 1635 Dundas St. E. The controversy there began when the Region of Durham purchased the property for $14 Million two years ago. The total bill would rise considerably, with millions of dollars required for remedial work at the site, forcing taxpayers to hand over $21 Million and counting. At some point, residents and property owners in communities throughout the Region could be forgiven for doubting the capabilities of those in various decision-making capacities. With literally a small army of elected officials and bureaucrats overseeing these and other projects, the mind simply boggles when trying to rationalize what can only be seen as a collective failure to properly manage other people’s money. BIG GOVERNMENT AND THE 2025 SUNSHINE LIST Last, but certainly not least, and to help make the rest of your week as cheerful as I can, here are some of the Region of Durham’s top salary earners based on the 2025 Sunshine List. These numbers reflect an individual’s earnings for the previous year. Dr. Robert J. Kyle, Commissioner and Chief Officer of Health: $341,247.53. Elaine Baxter-Trahair, Chief Administrative Officer: $336,437.90. Elspeth E. McTavish, Associate Medical Officer of Health: $294,857.61. Peter Moreira, Chief of Police: $294,149.76. Nancy Taylor, Commissioner of Finance: $259,639.03. Dean Bertrim, Deputy Chief of the Durham Regional Police Service: $255,704.03. Bill Holmes, General Manager of Durham Region Transit: $253,192.58. Stella Danos-Papaconstantinou, Commissioner of Social Services: $253,192.58. Brian Bridgeman, Commissioner of Economic Development: $252,618.44. Ramesh Jagannathan, Commissioner of Works: $251,499.79. Of course, our list would not be complete without mention of one final salary earner: John Henry, Regional Chairman and CEO: $236,256.08. May God bless each and every over-burdened taxpayer.

They lied to you. Repeatedly. Boldly. Without shame.

They lied to you. Repeatedly. Boldly. Without shame. By Councillor Lisa Robinson

Remember The Ice Cream Truck

remember the ice cream truck... 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 Remember simpler times.... as a kid waiting for the ice man to come riding that old insulated wagon pulled by good old Charlie. Charlie always appreciating that apple or bucket of water awaiting for him during every visit. Or the times waiting on the milk man. Bringing the order of fresh milk, butter and other goodies. There I would stand holding written order in pencil... Or the knife sharpener... the mailman... The shoe repair man... Oh those were the times. Sun gently caressing my skin.... And who can forget the ICE cream trunk later in the 60’s. That bell that could be heard blocks away. Soon as you would hear it... You run to your mom and hit her up for some cash. Soon as you seen it coming.... You run to the curb awaiting the latest flavor or at the least you favor... as many times they would run out and or sub in a different one. As I sit here looking out my office window. My memories race, to the uncertainties. To the innocence of being a child. My parents sheltering me from all of the world’s ills. Look at today. All those memories enriching my character.... Today instead of the ice cream truck. We await the political truck to roll by. At the local level, many people do not even know who is running until they pull up to your front door and introduce themselves. As voters we are at the will of the National names. Some vote on traditional misconceptions. Others on the color of the party. And yet others don’t even bother voting. Democracy is a word pretty much like love. A mix of interpretations and uses. Everyone has their own take. Depending on the context at the moment. Much like that ice cream truck. We the voters have little memory of what we had. A clear dislike for what we are having, ‘NOTHING’. And hope that this time around the truck will bring us something good and something sweet. Much like children, all we want is to be happy. To feel loved and to love those around you. Our political flavor stems from many ideas, misconceptions and presumption, assumptions that normally are not rooted. We the people can’t be expected to see the bigger picture. We only see the wrapper of the different flavors. Then it is up to us to try them. But like they say. Those that like Vanilla over Strawberry will always go for Vanilla. That sweet taste is why we live in a neapolitan world full of confusion guided by ice cream trucks driven by agenda, propaganda and general self fulfilling interests. Vote - No Vote - Hell it is all ice cream that melt after the election.

Election Fever Has Taken Over in Canada

Election Fever Has Taken Over in Canada by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East We are approaching the halfway point of a strange federal election campaign. Polls are heating up, the journalists and the pundits are getting more and more exited, predictions of the winner are abounding, but the economic situation is getting worse for the ordinary Canadian. The tariff war is being fueled by our neighbor to the South and the geopolitical situation is deteriorating by the day. The unpredictable nature of this tariff war is seriously worrisome and President Trump is playing a dangerously provocative game. Dare we call it bull-negotiations? In a situation like this, one hopes that the world might one day be a better place to live. On our political front, the time has come for parties to release their platforms, and we are being bombarded by promises from all sides. As usual, the politicians are promising everything to get the vote. Once the election is over, many of these promises will be forgotten. So diving into this midterm campaign, we see that the competing parties are not only campaigning, but they are constantly asking for money. The advertising is heating up, with negative advertising becoming the trending signature of the Conservative Party. Rallies with the leaders are being held regularly all over the country, with each party trying to convince the electorate to vote for them. However, the economic outlook in Canada is not so good for the near future. Canadian economic growth is expected to run below trend in 2025 and 2026, before finding greater balance in 2027. Slowing population growth and the impact of tariffs on business and consumer sentiment are the drivers of lower growth. Consumer spending had been improving with lower interest rates, but we expect this to act as a drag on growth as higher prices cut into spending power. This has the unemployment rate moving above its long-run level until 2027. Businesses and households see the economic climate as unpredictable. The scope and magnitude of planned US tariffs, along with the timing of their implementation, continue to change. This uncertainty is making it difficult for businesses to make investment and hiring decisions and to set prices. Trade tensions have led households to worry more about their job security and financial health, and they now intend to spend less. Concern about job security is particularly evident among people working in sectors that are highly dependent on trade. Businesses have revised down their sales outlooks. Indicators of future sales—such as order books and sales enquiries—have declined. This decline is particularly prominent in manufacturing. In addition, sectors that depend on households’ discretionary spending continue to report weak demand. Most businesses say they are continuing with existing investment projects, particularly projects aimed at maintaining capacity and improving productivity. In the oil and gas sector, many businesses expect only a modest impact on their near-term investment and production decisions. However, a tariff would make projects less attractive to investors over the medium term. Certainly, households and businesses expect trade tensions to lead to higher prices. This is reflected in a recent rise in their short-term inflation expectations. This is the tense situation in which the federal election campaign is being conducted. Undoubtedly, we can expect to see more interesting days, with more surprises to come. One interesting development has been the involvement of former Prime Minister Stephen Harper in the Conservative Party campaign. He was not very committed in previous campaigns, but this time he came out forcefully in favor of the leader of the Conservative Party, Pierre Poilievre. Let us hope that once the election campaign is over, Canadians will have a more predictable and a strong government to deal with the very serious issues we face both at home and abroad. Hope for the best and let your voice be heard. Get out and VOTE.

North Americans Should Replicate Japanese Lifestyle

North Americans Should Replicate Japanese Lifestyle By W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford The Japanese have an expression, “Effort never betrays you.” A visit to Japan this past week has been a reminder that hard work and perseverance are enduring elements of the national identity. Both of us first visited Japan decades ago – in 1962 and 1988. This latest visit has provided the opportunity for perspective. What’s fascinating about Japan is, whether it’s bureaucrats or street youth setting the course, the whole of society moves together in getting on board with policies and trends. This cohesion is part of Japan’s remarkable improvement in key health indicators, such as life expectancy, now among the longest in the world. It’s been easy to see this change by looking at smoking customs. Japan used to be a great cloud of smoke – in offices, homes, restaurants, and on the street. Today, there are polite signs everywhere reminding people that smoking is not allowed. Smoking inside the home and in the office were the first prohibitions, and now even on the streets, in parks, train stations, and restaurants, smoking is not allowed. There are no butts to be found on the ground. Not one. Policy changes regarding smoking, and societal adherence, are a big win for Japanese society. Lung cancer and other smoking-related disease are declining as a result. The Japanese are also keeping an eye out for how to improve their diet. What’s noticeable today is a reduction in the consumption of salt. As a result of public health campaigns, the Japanese have reduced their daily salt intake from over 12 grams per person to much closer to the daily recommended amount of 6 grams. Are there people who are obese in Japan? They are not easy to find. Sumo wrestlers are the obvious exception. We respectfully suggest it is a sport so out of date that it should be retired or relegated to a historical society. It’s more ceremonial show than physical craft. And good grief, women, even doctors, are barred from stepping foot on the contest platform because they are considered impure! Pity the wrestlers too, who die prematurely, on average in their mid-60s. Thankfully, sumo is not trending up. Instead, most citizens observe the uniquely Japanese custom of “filling the stomach to 80%” – more than enough to make it to the next meal. The Japanese lifestyle involves regular walking, a lot of bicycle riding, sports club participation, and social health promotion activities. Don’t forget that nearly every person in Japan gets down on their knees, squats, sits on the floor, and gets up from these positions, multiple times a day – and through their seniormost years. With a religious-like dedication, they take leisurely baths at the end of each day. It’s a form of therapy that doesn’t get a lot of credit as an ingredient of long-term health promotion, but it probably should. One problem remains, that of antiquated customs that tie men relentless to the workplace, even in their leisure activities, and that discourage women from advancing their careers. In general, the Japanese population could be described as happy, but there are enough people suffering from over work and related mental ill health that the overall average is pulled down. Cancer, too, is an intractable challenge and has been the leading cause of death for several decades. But improvements in early detection are leading to better survival rates. Still 30% of deaths in Japan are due to cancer. What’s another big challenge? A population in decline. From a peak of about 128 million in 2008, Japanese will number less than 100 million by 2050. Neither government nor youth appear motivated to apply their efforts in addressing this challenge. 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

Tariffs and War A look through the Looking Glass

Tariffs and War A look through the Looking Glass By Maurice Brenner Regional Councillor Ward 1 Pickering For those who have watched Back to the Future, you might be starting to wonder if Donald Trump used a TESLA TIME MACHINE to travel forward from 1812 to 2025. Here we are in the first week of April 2025, and it is as if we are once again playing out the same War but this time using Tariffs as the weapon of choice. While I do not support what the Trump administration has imposed around the world and in particular here in Canada nor will I ever understand how anyone would chose a mission that has isolated the USA from the world and just like in 1812 has brought us together as a diverse group Canadians, strengthening our pride and love of Country while at the same time building relationships with our allies. It has forced us to not only celebrate Canada but to gain greater independence from our cousins the USA. Canada has earned the right to be respected, the Trump Administration obviously as their forefathers did in 1812 under estimated who we are and how united we are. To understand this one only has to revisit our history, the War of 1812, a conflict that shaped who we are. The war lasted from 1812 to 1814, the United States just like Trump had a desire to expand its territory viewing Canada as weak, launching several invasions. But like today the USA underestimated Canada. In 1812 the British along with First Nations Warriors defended our boundaries against the the US forces. Similarly, today, it has fostered a sense of Canadian identity and pride, bringing together Canadians of all diverse backgrounds, who chose Canada as their homeland. The War of1812 until the Trump era had an everlasting impact on our relationship with the USA and for Centuries and Decades to follow was based on a foundation of mutual respect, peace and co-operation. So what has changed? While Canada prospered and continued on its own journey, the USA became stagnant and rather than looking from with-in, as in 1812 blamed its allies targeting Canada to the North. Rather than guns and bullets, the USA today are using Tariffs, placing high taxes on goods failing to recognize how it will harm their own Country. Obviously they never learn. Had they used their TESLA TIME MACHINE and travelled back to 1773 to “The Boston Tea Party”, they could have avoided what the consequences of their actions will be today in 2025. They in the USA will face unrest and who knows maybe another Civil War from with-in (But that is a story for another day) But now lets travel forward to 2027, the Tariff/Trade War has ended, and once again Canada and our World allies remained strong and united, while unfortunately the good people of the USA will end up paying the price as a result of a needless War, the Trump Team launched on the World and lost. YES HISTORY REPEATS ITS SELF.

Is a renter always a tenant?

Is a renter always a tenant? By Theresa Grant Real estate columnist Renting in the province of Ontario doesn’t always mean you’re considered a tenant. As such, not everyone is protected under the RTA, The residential Tenancies Act. Whether or not you are covered under the Residential Tenancies Act depends on the type of accommodation you are renting. If you are renting an apartment in a large building with multiple units for instance, you would be considered a tenant. As such, you would be covered under the Residential Tenancies act. If you are renting a room in a house where your landlord or the owner of the house also lives, you would be considered a boarder or a lodger. If you are renting a self-contained basement apartment with a separate entrance, and the owner of the house, the landlord or landlady lives upstairs, you would be considered a tenant. It can get confusing. Renting rooms in a house where the owner or landlord does not reside, is different yet again. If that is the case, you would be considered a tenant. Rooming houses were a way of life many years ago especially in populated cities like Toronto. That may have been a person’s first home away from home as they migrated to the city for work or school. Over the years, their popularity dwindled and, in some cases, became neglected run-down fire traps. There are very strict fire regulations on the registered rooming houses that remain. There are a few registered rooming houses here in Oshawa. They are inspected by the fire department on a regular basis. The official inspection pass is usually located just inside the front door along with the occupancy maximum. They are run like a business because that is what they are considered. As rents surged over the last few years, rooming houses seem to have regained some popularity. If you are living in a four-bedroom house and the owner and or the owner’s family also reside in the house, you are a boarder or a lodger. You are not covered under the Residential Tenancies Act. One helpful notation to all of this confusion seems to be that if you are renting a space within the home of the landlord or landlady, and you do not have a kitchen or bath, you are then considered a lodger as opposed to a tenant. It is always recommended to know your rights and responsibilities when it comes to renting and always know whether you are considered a tenant or a boarder.

A TALE OF TWO MAYORS AND A D.E.I CULTURE GONE MAD THE ISSUES AND DEBATES THAT HAVE SHAPED THE WEEK

A TALE OF TWO MAYORS AND A D.E.I CULTURE GONE MAD THE ISSUES AND DEBATES THAT HAVE SHAPED THE WEEK By Dean Hickey THIS WEEK WE DIRECT OUR ATTENTION toward events which, by themselves, have displayed a range of unhealthy moral and philosophical principles, all of which account for much of what is lacking in the way we are governed. It is impossible at times, notwithstanding the most strenuous exertions, to raise the acuity of some among the elected officials who now occupy certain city council chambers. Readers of this column may surely grasp this reality as we consider recent social media posts that are generating plenty of controversy. PICKERING’S MAYOR ASHE TAKES TO SOCIAL MEDIA To even the most casual observer, the tensions that have plagued Pickering City Council so far this term are nothing less than troubling to residents within the community as well as some among the municipality’s staff. The source of this conflict continues to be a matter for debate, however, over the course of six days last month, Mayor Kevin Ashe took to Facebook in an attempt to offer up a series of provocative comments aimed at his well-known adversary, Ward 1 City councillor Lisa Robinson. The unfortunate narrative began with a post on March 22 in which the Mayor described councillor Robinson as a ‘hypocrite” suggesting she was “The only Councillor who has been found to breach our gifts policy…” This, as one might expect, gave rise to a public debate between the Mayor and his outspoken colleague. Their exchanges included the following remarks as each sought to outdo the other in what could only be described as an online sparring match: Ashe: “You can’t follow the rules. Why don’t you start there?” Robinson: “”Why don’t you start following the current rules?” Ashe: “I follow the rules…” Robinson: “Stop deflecting, Mr. Mayor. Why won’t you second the motion to ban gifts and benefits?” If that public display of animosity and schoolyard banter wasn’t enough, Mayor Ashe posted yet again on March 26, suggesting councillor Robinson take a leave of absence due to her having recently been selected as a federal candidate in a neighbouring riding. That post appears to have been removed, however, another was added in its place a mere 24 hours later. This time, the debate has been considerable, with one participant suggesting to the Mayor, “It’s actually embarrassing watching you whine about her” and another saying, “This bickering back and forth between Ashe and Robinson is unprofessional.” Perhaps the most memorable comment was offered by councillor Robinson herself when she told the Mayor, “Looks like I’ve taken up permanent residence in your thoughts…” The situation continues to unfold for all the world to see, and whether one agrees with Mayor Ashe or his opponent in the debate, this little exhibition of ‘catch me if you can’ does nothing but diminish the Office of the Mayor, and that is something everyone over at Pickering city hall needs to understand. OSHAWA’S MAYOR CARTER BUILDS A BUREAUCRATIC EMPIRE “At this particular time, I have embraced the Strong Mayor Powers, and I just want to remind everyone of that.” Those comments were made by Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter as some councillors attempted to debate a few key components of his tax-and-spend agenda. It began during a debate over public engagement opportunities for future budget deliberations, namely that a special meeting of council be held on a pre-scheduled weeknight this coming autumn to listen to residents’ concerns. Ward 5 Regional councillor Brian Nicholson was unequivocal in his comments to the Mayor as to how such a meeting may be perceived. “It leaves the impression that Council has some kind of authority or power in this process.” He went on to add, “When we say to the public that Council is going to listen and… control the budget process, we are misleading the public.” It is known that councillors attempted to bring forward amendments to last year’s budget, only to be vetoed by Mayor Carter as part of his overwhelming embrace of the supreme powers bestowed upon him by the Provincial government. Local taxpayers were subsequently faced with an increase in spending and staffing levels, to be paid for by a whopping 7.87% tax increase, far above that of the previous year, which amounted to less than 4%. The proposal for greater public input on the budgetary process was ultimately voted down, not only by the Mayor, but also councillors Bob Chapman, John Gray, John Neal, and Rick Kerr. Undeterred, councillor Nicholson went on to move a motion that “Council recommends a budget increase target of not more than 4% in 2026.” This proposal was ultimately successful, but without the support of the Mayor and certain councillors apparently unwilling to rule out another major tax increase, including Derek Giberson, Jim Lee, and Rick Kerr. OSHAWA DEI CHAMPIONS AWARDS PROGRAM Last week I told readers of this column about efforts within some municipalities, particularly the City of Toronto, to create an unelected council seat for a representative of the Indigenous community, part of a broad-reaching mandate by that city’s in-house Diversity Equity and Inclusion (D.E.I.) bureaucracy. Last week, Oshawa councillors approved an initiative by their own staff to establish a ‘Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Champions Awards Program’ with an inaugural awards presentation scheduled for Spring 2026. For those who believe solely in the inherent fairness associated with a merit-based approach towards hiring and other selection processes, the staff report considered by Council is nothing more than an affirmative action and racial preferences mandate. The intent of the report is to see a government-initiated extension of D.E.I. initiatives toward individuals, schools, businesses, charities, and non-profit organizations, all under the guise of a so-called rewards program. The ideology behind this type of approach has rightly become a target of criticism, as the focus is inevitably on ‘identity’ over merit, leading to quotas and forced representation rather than on skills and qualifications. Certain among the anti-racism policies and other such programs which seek to foster a welcoming environment, fairness in the application of our laws, and the protection of individual rights are all positive steps. The mandate associated with overall D.E.I. ideology, however, may be seen as less valuable, and certainly less trustworthy. A COLLECTIVE DISPLAY OF RECKLESS IDEAS The unfortunate aspects of our political culture highlighted in this week’s column display, in a special manner, the truth of what this newspaper has heretofore identified as weaknesses within the democratic process. We see it as a waste of votes when citizens elect officials who start making decisions based on self-interest rather than those of the community which put them into office in the first place. Embarrassing debates on social media, a reckless disregard for over-burdened taxpayers, and the approval of policies that will only seek to divide rather than unify, are all part of a pattern bordering on ineptitude. Meanwhile, the threat of significant global economic challenges looms overhead, and will require a renewed focus among municipal councils on what really matters, being the economy and the creation of jobs. Let us hope common sense prevails.

OPINION: The Conservative & Liberal Parties Don’t Own Your Vote --- You Do ---

OPINION: The Conservative & Liberal Parties Don’t Own Your Vote --- You Do --- By Councillor Lisa Robinson Let’s talk about democracy. Not the kind politicians love to plaster on lawn signs — I mean real democracy. The kind where you choose your candidate, not some backroom party boss. Because what’s happening right now in Canada — and right here in Pickering–Brooklin — is a betrayal of everything democracy is supposed to stand for. The Conservative Party has handpicked candidates in approximately 90 ridings across the country, including ours. That means grassroots candidates who spent over a year knocking on doors, meeting residents, building relationships, and pouring their own time and money into earning a nomination were pushed aside at the last second. Why? Because they weren’t part of the inner circle. That’s not democracy. That’s elitism. And it gets worse. Our Liberal candidate isn’t even from Pickering–Brooklin — they’re being parachuted in from Markham. Meanwhile, the Conservative candidate doesn’t live here either, and she’s already proven she doesn’t share the values of real conservatives. This is someone who pushed vaccines on children and tried to bribe marginalized communities with dance parties and gift cards to get the jab. Is that conservative? That’s government overreach, coercion, and the exact opposite of bodily autonomy. And let’s not forget — she wasn’t voted in by the people. She was handpicked by Doug Ford, the very Premier who rammed through vaccine passports, locked down small businesses, and divided communities. If that’s not a follower looking for a paycheck, I don’t know what is. And if we ever face another medical or social crisis again, do you really believe this person will protect your job, your family, or your bodily autonomy? Because I don’t. And neither should you. If the party can’t even respect the basic right of members to choose their own nominee, what makes you think their candidate will respect you as a constituent? They weren’t chosen by you. They were chosen for you — and that’s the problem. And while they’ve been silent, collecting their endorsements and avoiding tough conversations, I’ve been the only elected official in this riding willing to stand up — and pay the price for it. I’ve been unpaid for nine months because I spoke the truth and refused to back down. Not one of these candidates said a word in support. Why? Because they don’t want to upset the system. They don’t rock the boat — they row it. So no — voting for what you believe in is not splitting the vote. That’s just a lie designed to control you. It’s how they keep you in fear, voting for the “lesser of two evils.” But ask yourself: what has that gotten you? More of the same. More mandates. More lockdowns. More broken promises. The Conservatives don’t own your vote. The Liberals don’t own your vote. You own your vote. And you deserve to give it to someone who will fight for you — not someone who’s just waiting to cash a paycheque and follow orders. This is your moment. If we want real change, we have to vote like it. Don’t vote out of fear. Vote with courage. Vote with conviction. Vote for someone who has already shown they’ll stand up — even when it costs them everything. Because the ballot belongs to the people. Let’s start acting like it. I am Councillor Lisa Robinson, The People’s Councillor

TrumpedChumpedand left for Stupid…

trumped chumped and left for stupid... 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 Sometimes I feel like I am the only one awake. Does no one else see the business move Trump is pulling on the world and everyone is falling for it? Trump comes from the corporate world. A place where you have to win all the time. Open challenge normally is met with total annihilation. Or in what we all have got to know as ‘YOUR FIRED’. Challenging Trump on the Tariffs is economic suicide. Look at what is taking place in Canada. Before tariffs were even sanctioned. Companies laid off. Companies threaten economic downfall. Suppliers, threatened price increases.... What Trump has done is expose the vultures in our economy. The vultures that look for any opportunity to slim the work force and increase prices. Much like this crap about ‘BUY CANADIAN’. The question is why have we not been buying Canadian all along? Why because traditionally Canadian made products cost more. So people obviously went with China and the U.S. Look at the local municipalities for example. They are all quick for the photo opportunity, extending opinion and resolve on an issue they have no clue what they are saying other than parrot what the main media spews. FEAR MONGERING. This is ridiculous. Personally, I think what Trump has done should be a wake up call to all average hard working taxpayers. We are getting ripped off. Our tax dollars are being wasted. Back to Trump. What do we do. NOTHING. Let him put tariffs on us. Let him think he has won. Then, when he comes around wanting something. Here is where we negotiate for a Canada win. Us imposing tariffs on U.S. goods does nothing for our economy and puts us on a weak spot in future negotiations. As every attempt to negotiate will lead to the same resolve. We as Canadians have to be smarter. Trump worries about borders. Ok, we as a sovereign nation. Will open all our borders across Canada. No security. Let the Americans build another wall to the north. As for the pipeline. Sure let’s build it. But we would claim special building funds for the next 100 years for crossing our land. A lease of sort. As for U.S. goods coming to Canada. No Tariff. Let’s pull what China has for years. Use American goods and services to strength our country. Charge double on their needs without mentioning tariff. Remember it not personal it’s good sound business.

United States Tariffs and the Canadian Federal Election

United States Tariffs and the Canadian Federal Election by Maj (ret'd) CORNELIU. CHISU, CD, PMSC, FEC, CET, P. Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East The world is in real turmoil and the “Liberation Day Tariffs” issued by the President of the United States Donald Trump created tsunami waves on trade relations we have been accustomed too. It is a new world in the making with an unforeseeable future. For the moment, it seems that we are living in a Trump-generated chaos. It is quite clear that United States President Donald Trump's move to levy tariffs on virtually every country will sink the global economy, torpedo economic growth and prompt devastating consequences for workers and businesses in Canada and around the world. Using national emergency powers, Trump announced 10% tariffs on all imports into the United States, and even higher tariffs on goods from about 60 countries or trading blocs that have a high trade deficit with the US. That includes China and the European Union, which will be levied new duties of 34% and 20%, respectively. Trump’s latest actions represent the most significant escalation in US tariffs in nearly a century, since the Smoot-Hawley Act of 1930. Trump’s so-called reciprocal tariffs won’t match the ones foreign countries impose on the United States unless a country already had a 10% US tariff. “We will charge them approximately half of what they are and have been charging us, so the tariffs will be not a full reciprocal,” Trump said from the Rose Garden last week. “I could have done that, I guess, but it would have been tough for a lot of countries and we didn’t want to do that.” For example, instead of matching the European Union’s 39% tariff on US goods, the new duty on the EU will be 20%. China, which was already slapped with a 20% tariff for its role in the fentanyl trade, will be levied an additional 34% — half of the 67% tariff it imposes on the US — bringing its new rate to 54%. About 60 countries will see tariffs higher than 10%. The baseline 10% tariff goes into effect on April 4, one minute after midnight. The higher tariffs will go into effect on April 9. The new tariffs won’t add on to tariffs previously announced on steel, aluminum and cars. The 25% tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada that don’t comply with the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement will remain in place until Trump determines that issues around fentanyl and illegal immigration have been resolved. Whenever that happens, Canada and Mexico will then default to the administration’s current trade approach for other countries. Fortunately, for the moment it seems that Canada is in the eye of the storm and was spared additional tariffs on this fatidic day of the world, April 2nd. In this doomsday of the world economy, Canada was excluded from the sweeping new round of reciprocal tariffs. It appears, at first glance, to be a welcome reprieve for Canadian industry, but the reality is more complicated. While we have dodged the latest bullet, the previously announced tariffs, particularly on autos, steel, and aluminum remain a considerable threat. As Canada is in the middle of a crucial election politically, the question becomes: does this development take pressure off the governing Liberals and their leader, Mark Carney, or does it open the door for Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives to highlight other concerns? Carney said Trump's tariffs against Canadian goods are "unjustified, unwarranted and misguided," and the country must hit back with what he called "carefully calibrated and targeted countermeasures" to make it clear Canada will not stand for this sort of economic broadside. The Liberal leader said the government would levy a tariff on U.S.-made vehicles that are not compliant with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), to match what the Americans did to the Canadian auto industry. Carney said the U.S. trade war is already having an impact, Stellantis will idle its massive Windsor, Ontario, auto assembly plant because of Trump's tariffs. Ottawa "will do everything in our power" to protect workers, including with financial assistance, he said. Carney said Trump is dismantling the world trading system and Canada must make a hard pivot to build up its own economy and pursue better relations with "reliable" trading partners, including Commonwealth countries like Australia and the U.K., but also Mexico, France and other countries in Europe. "We must do extraordinary things for ourselves, we must do things previously thought impossible at speeds we haven't seen in generations," Carney said, promising to turbocharge economic development with an ambitious building program. "We are living in a new world now. It will be hard on Canadians but I have no doubt we will rise to the challenge," he said, adding that the country has rallied in the past in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles, and can do so again. Carney said Canada's "old relationship" with the U.S. is "over" and the decades-long push to become more integrated with the Americans will come to an end as Trump ramps up his attacks on the country. However, Carney said there is still an opportunity to come to some sort of an agreement with Trump on economic and security issues after the upcoming federal election. Carney said he agreed with Trump to sit down after the campaign — if he wins the election — to renegotiate CUSMA, which has been left in tatters as a result of the president's trade war. In these fast evolving events the Conservative Party seems to have been left adrift. The party concentrated its campaign on Trudeau lead liberals and seems to be unable to pivot in response to evolving events; to embrace a new approach in the face of a real threat of economic disaster. We are still in the early stages of the electoral campaign, and we will see if the Conservative Party is able to find a solution to reverse its fast and furious decline in popularity. It looks like the strong disapproval Trudeau suffered over the past two years masked the underlying weakness of the Conservative electoral coalition. As soon as he was gone, the dissatisfaction started to come undone, revealing a country that, for demographic reasons, has a natural tendency to elect progressives. There are some days left until Election Day, but unless some big things change soon, it looks like Poilievre is going to discover that the supporters who brought him close to the precipice of power were the wrong people to get him over the top. Voice your opinion. Get out and vote!

Turn Off the Panic: Why Pre-Planning a Death Matters

Turn Off the Panic: Why Pre-Planning a Death Matters By Dale Jodoin Inspired by a father’s real experience When someone dies, there is sadness, confusion, and sometimes even panic. Most people don’t realize that when a loved one dies, the family has to make more than 80 decisions within just a few days. These decisions are hard, and they cost money. For low-income families, this can be too much to handle. The person writing this article saw their father go through it. When a close family member passed, their father had to make dozens of decisions while grieving. It was painful, stressful, and expensive. That’s why this article was written — to help other families get ready before it happens. There’s good news. You can plan ahead. It’s called pre-planning, and it can help your family save time, money, and pain when the time comes. This article explains what pre-planning is, why it matters, and how to do it — even if you don’t have a lot of money. What Is Pre-Planning? Pre-planning means making choices about what you want after you die — before it happens. This can include things like: Do you want to be buried or cremated? Do you want a big funeral or something small? Who do you want to handle your belongings? What music or prayers do you want at your service? It may feel strange to think about death. But planning ahead is one of the kindest things you can do for your family. Why Pre-Planning Is Important When someone dies, loved ones are often shocked and upset. At the same time, they have to make lots of quick decisions. These choices can be hard, especially when people don’t know what the person wants. Families may argue or feel guilt. Some people end up spending too much money, thinking it shows more love. Pre-planning helps in three ways: It takes pressure off your family. It helps avoid arguments and confusion. It saves money. When you make these decisions in advance, your family can just follow your wishes. That way, they can spend more time supporting each other instead of stressing out. What If I Don’t Have a Lot of Money? Many people think pre-planning is only for the rich. That’s not true. Even if you’re low-income, you can still plan. In fact, it’s even more important for families with tight budgets. Here are some money-saving tips for pre-planning: Cremation is often cheaper than burial. Simple caskets can still be respectful and beautiful. You don’t need a fancy hall — services can be held at home, in a church, or at a community center. You don’t need flowers or catering — a potluck or snack table is fine. The most important thing is to be clear about what you want. That saves your family from guessing and spending money they don’t have. The 87 Decisions Families Must Make You might be surprised, but when someone dies, the family must quickly make up to 87 decisions. Here are just a few examples: Who do we call first? Which funeral home do we use? What kind of service do we have? What clothes will they wear? What day will the funeral be? What music will be played? Who will speak at the funeral? What do we do with their bank accounts? How many death certificates do we need? These are hard questions to answer quickly. That’s why pre-planning helps so much. Create a Death Checklist Making a simple checklist helps keep things organized. Here’s an easy one you can copy and fill in: Your Simple Pre-Planning Checklist Who do I want to handle when I die? Name: ________________________________ Do I want a burial or cremation? [ ] Burial [ ] Cremation Where should I be buried or have my ashes placed? Do I want a funeral service? [ ] Yes [ ] No If yes, where: ________________________ What music or reading would I like? Do I have a will? [ ] Yes [ ] No If yes, where is it kept? _____________ Tip: Find a lawyer who can help for free — many legal clinics and community centers offer this service. Do I want people to donate money to a cause instead of sending flowers? Cause: _______________________________ What should happen to my pets? Who should be told about my death right away? Any special instructions or wishes? Keep this checklist somewhere safe, like in a file marked “In Case of Death,” and tell a trusted friend or family member where to find it. Talk About It Now — Not Later It’s okay to talk about death. It doesn’t mean you’re giving up. It means you care about the people you’ll leave behind. Sit down with your family and say, “I want to make things easier for you when the time comes.” Some people also choose to talk to a local funeral home, church, or community group. Many offer free help with planning. Don’t Forget About Help In Canada, some provinces and cities offer death benefit programs for people with low income. These can help pay for a basic cremation or burial. You can also ask your local social services office or Indigenous support groups if you qualify for help. Some charities and churches also help families with final costs. It’s always okay to ask. Final Thoughts: Love Never Forgets Planning for death doesn’t take away from life. In fact, it protects the people you love. By making these decisions now, you give your family a gift: peace of mind. You don’t need a lot of money to plan. You just need a little time, a pen, and love in your heart. Remember — love never forgets. And that’s what pre-planning is all about.

The Myth of Splitting the Vote And Why I Chose to Stand Up

The Myth of Splitting the Vote And Why I Chose to Stand Up By Councillor Lisa Robinson We’ve all heard it before: “Don’t split the vote.” It's the line the political establishment uses to scare good people into supporting bad candidates. But let’s be honest—this is nothing more than a tactic to keep you locked into a broken system, one that no longer serves the people it was meant to represent. The truth is, there’s no such thing as splitting the vote when your vote never truly belonged to a party in the first place. Your vote is yours. It belongs to your conscience, your values, and your future—not to strategists in Ottawa or party insiders trying to control the outcome. The past few years under Liberal leadership have been nothing short of disastrous. Taxes are up. Food prices have skyrocketed. Gas is unaffordable. Our small businesses have suffered. Families are stretched thin, seniors are being left behind, and young people are losing hope. This government has bled us dry while smiling for the cameras—and they have the nerve to ask for four more years? And now, in Pickering–Brooklin, they’ve parachuted in a Liberal candidate who doesn’t even live here—she lives in Markham. Let that sink in. She doesn’t share your streets, your schools, or your struggles. But she wants to represent you? On the other side, we have the so-called Conservative candidate—also not from Pickering. Not even from Durham. Dropped in from elsewhere, with no skin in the game, no history with our people, and no understanding of what we’ve been through. And worst of all? This same individual pushed vaccine mandates on innocent people—including marginalized communities—forcing people to choose between feeding their families or complying with a political agenda. How could anyone support that over someone who has been in the trenches with you—fighting, sacrificing, and standing firm when it mattered most? That’s why I chose to run for the People’s Party of Canada. Because I know what it means to stand up—when it’s hard, when it’s costly, and when you’re standing alone. If I didn’t step forward now, I would never be able to look myself in the mirror. I’d be betraying everything I believe in—and everyone who put their trust in me. This isn’t about ego. It’s about principle. It’s about truth. It’s about doing everything in my power to give you a real voice in a system that has tried again and again to silence people like us. I’ve faced council censorship. I’ve gone without pay for nearly a year. I’ve been smeared and attacked because I dared to expose corruption, speak honestly, and refuse to be bought or bullied. And I’m still here—because I refuse to quit on you. They’ll say I’m splitting the vote. I say I’m offering the only real choice. Because when your options are a Liberal who doesn’t live here, has ruined our economy, made life unaffordable and a so called conservative who pushed mandates on your children, the question isn’t “Why vote for me?” The real question is: Why on earth would you vote for them? Your vote is your voice. And it’s time to use it not out of fear—but with boldness. With courage. With the conviction that we, the people, still hold the power in this country. They can try to divide us. They can parachute in strangers. But they can’t stop the truth. And they can’t stop a people who are finally ready to rise. I am Councillor Lisa Robinson, The People’s Councillor, A True Conservative MP Candidate for the People’s Party of Canada

Do we need municipal government?

do we need municipal government?

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 You always hear... Democracy is failing society... Democracy is under siege. When in reality Democracy is the vehicle that allows the people to elect someone to office. Traditionally, the electorate selected candidates based on credentials and stature in the community. People they could trust to work in their best interest. This worked well for hundreds of years as long as it was a communal mentality. In today's modern society it still works fine as a vehicle for selecting representatives. The problem is the quality of representative is what has become questionable as most of those elected do not have life experience, the academic qualification and or intellect to be able to make the decisions that they are faced once in office. So what do we have. Wasted tax payers money. Little or no representation. Think about this. When was the last time you ran into your local or regional council member? Do you even know who they are? Then how is it they are representing you? Do you know the issues? Do you know what is happening in your community? If you answered ‘NO’, to any of the above. Then you proven my point. Modern day municipal government is a waste of money. We have no representation. Unfortunately, those elected may not even have the answers. As they depend on staff recommendations and peer opinion. Not on hard sound decision making based on common sense and rational thinking. Look at Oshawa. They spend millions of taxpayers dollars to erect a park next to a park. The ED BROADBENT park next to Lakeview. Is that sound, rational planning? Or wise expenditure on behalf of the taxpayers. This is one example. Now you can’t blame those elected? As they have clearly proven they have no clue what they are doing. It has become so bad... that most of the municipalities across Durham have shut down public access to the municipal offices. The public is so fed up that out of desperation they see municipal government as the enemy. Oshawa, a municipal fortress with three levels of security. Civic, police and a 2 million dollar para-military security firm that primarily protects the mayor and council members from taxpayers. Is this what we pay our taxes for? Don’t think so. But let’s not blame the incompetent we elected in office as they do not have the life experience and or intellect to deal with the general public. Once elected they employ a hit and miss approach towards matters. What we need is to vote based on credentials. Life experience. Imagine how much we the taxpayers would save with just a regional government. We need to get government back to the people and out of the hands of incompetents.

The Spring Market

The Spring Market By Theresa Grant Real Estate Columnist With the melting of the snow and the emergence of the birds, like clockwork every year, comes the age-old question; how is the market looking? Well in a nutshell, we don’t quite know. This year, perhaps more than others, it is up in the air. This is due to a few different things. One of course is the American trade war. The uncertainty of what that will mean exactly and how it will play out, has experts and analysts on both sides of the boarder in a bit of a quandary as to what to predict in terms of markets and interest rates. In Durham Region, the housing market has been strong for a while now. First time buyers are making their presence known in a big way. With interest rates in decline in the last several months, home ownership has seen a renewed sense of hope as first-timers scramble to get into the market. The bank of Canada was apparently considering holding the rate in March, according to Tiff Macklem, but due to the impending trade war with the U.S. decide to lower it once again. Does that mean they will continue to lower it? Perhaps they intend to hold it now and take a wait and see approach. Regardless of what the bank of Canada does with the interest rate, people are nervous. The uncertainty of what will happen is casting worry across many sectors. People are preparing to batten down the hatches. Some real estate professionals are wondering how this could affect the cottage market. With more and more people opting for a staycation, keeping their dollars in Canada, perhaps the cottage rental market will see a boon. From coast to coast there are miles of waterfront, and lovely cottages of all sizes and shapes that dot those shorelines. While it is hard to say exactly what will happen, one thing is certain, it is times like these that force people to become more resourceful, more creative, and definitely more independent. I recall something that my uncle used to say all the time when I was a child; This too, shall pass. And so it has been all of my life.

Job Seekers: Consider How You Are Interpreted

Job Seekers: Consider How You Are Interpreted By Nick Kossovan People—hiring managers, recruiters, receptionists, your network, human resources—are what carbonates the job search experience. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that how you're interpreted (read: perceived) is the deciding factor in whether your networking efforts bear fruit, whether you're referred, whether you move along in the hiring process, and whether you're ultimately hired. This truism echoes the cautionary words of American rapper and actor Jaden Smith: "Be careful with how you make the world perceive you because they'll perceive you like that for the rest of your life." Undeniably, image is everything. Yet, many job seekers fail to manage their image effectively and wonder why they're stuck in a lengthy job search. Basically, interpreting someone involves attributing meaning to information, which could be visual (how the person is dressed, physical mannerisms, the car they drive, what they're eating, how they keep their work area) or auditory (accent, use of slang, lexicons, profanity, pronunciation). We do this constantly while communicating, which is why communication is messy. For an employer to whittle down a stack of applications to the one they'll hire, they must interpret what they know and see, making judgments that sometimes lead to accusations of bias or "ism." According to philosopher Hannah Arendt, identity is formed through public actions; we become who we are based on how others see us. Thus, "people treat you as they see you." Be mindful of the impression you make on others, remember: · Image is everything! · How you make someone feel is everything! Since your image and how you make your interviewer(s) feel significantly influence your job search success, knowing what isn't a 'good look'—what turns off employers—is essential. Based on my observations, most job seekers either don't know what isn't a 'good look' or don't care about how they're perceived by employers. What isn't a 'good look' Publicly Bashing Employers: It's common knowledge that employers scrutinize a candidate's online activities to determine whether they're interview-worthy, which is why it amazes me how many job seekers bash employers. Do they believe employers will read their "frustrations" and say, "He's right! Let's change everything we've been doing"? Publicly bashing employers is like biting the hands you want to feed you. Why go on a platform like LinkedIn to malign those who could potentially help you? Publicly bashing employers shows poor judgment and a lack of emotional control. Sloppy Self-Presentation Apicius, a 1st-century Roman gourmet, famously said, "We eat with our eyes first." This principle applies when meeting someone for the first time. It's human nature to assume a person's outward appearance reflects their inner qualities. If there's ever a time to look your best, it's during a job search. Also, presenting yourself well extends beyond your appearance; your resume, LinkedIn profile, and social media activities contribute to the overall impression of who you are. Typos, vague results, poor grammar, and inappropriate social media posts turn employers off. Aggressive Communication Many job seekers often confuse assertiveness with aggression, possibly due to a prevalent sense of entitlement. Assertive communication expresses needs and opinions directly and respectfully, while aggressive communication prioritizes personal needs at the expense of others. I view assertiveness as a two-way dialogue, whereas aggression feels like a one-way proclamation. Aggressive communication leads to the aforementioned employer bashing and having a standoffish attitude with interviewers as if they're the enemy. In contrast, assertiveness means being clear about what you want while considering the employer's needs. The easiest way to expedite your job search is to focus on how you can solve an employer's problems and align your communication accordingly. Job seekers should aim to communicate from a "What can I do for you?" perspective rather than a "What's in it for me?" stance. Lack of Manners and Social Skills Although manners and social skills have declined, they are still crucial for career success. Lacking these skills makes you less likeable (read: affects how others feel about you). I've yet to meet a hiring manager who hires someone they don't like. Good manners facilitate relationships, which are vital to career success. Ignoring social cues or failing to read a room can lead to misunderstandings and hinder relationship-building. How people receive your message, what they remember about you, and how they feel afterward matters. At some point, everyone feels that how they're being interpreted is holding them back. When that happens, it's in your best interest to figure it out. If you feel unappreciated or misunderstood, look in the mirror instead of blaming "the world." You control your destiny through how you present yourself and how you communicate. Nobody is owed acceptance. While it’s contrary to the popular advice to "be yourself," that assumes 'yourself' is someone people actually like—a dangerous assumption—because your physical appearance and actions are what others use to interpret you, perception management is crucial to job search success; therefore, care as much, if not more, about how others perceive you than how you perceive yourself. The phrase "perception is reality," attributed to American political strategist Lee Atwater, echoes throughout an employer's hiring process; therefore, what employers see about you is your responsibility. ___________________________________________________________________ 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

A NEW FORM OF ‘REPRESENTATION’ WITHOUT ELECTION? APPOINTING INDIGENOUS PEOPLES TO MUNICIPAL COUNCILS

A NEW FORM OF ‘REPRESENTATION’ WITHOUT ELECTION? APPOINTING INDIGENOUS PEOPLES TO MUNICIPAL COUNCILS By Dean Hickey THE FRAMEWORK FOR OUR CANADIAN STYLE OF GOVERNANCE from our federal parliament to our local and regional councils is based on democracy, not only in principle but in all its consequences. Canadians elect their representatives directly, and for the most part at regular intervals to ensure accountability. In this regard, you and I are the ultimate authority, and our collective interests remain a perpetual influence throughout our communities as we find ourselves surrounded by the incessant drumbeat of political propaganda. This decade has so far seen several attempts made to water down that democratic process among local municipal councils, and in particular, Toronto City Hall. Some among that august body of decision makers have recently formed the opinion that the affairs of their community may be better served by adding an unelected member of city council. At a recent meeting of their Executive Committee - which is chaired by Mayor Olivia Chow - a motion was brought forward by the Mayor that would see Toronto’s City Manager look into opportunities to ‘deepen meaningful representation of the Indigenous community in City decision-making… including through advisory bodies and other mechanisms.’ Those ‘other mechanisms’ are seen by many Toronto councillors as an attempt to add one or more members of council who would be appointed based on their ancestry, without having been given a mandate by the electors. It will be convenient at this stage to consider a little more clearly the nature of this proposal and how it might ultimately affect other councils within the province, including that of the city of Oshawa. Let us suppose such a change is eventually approved by the provincial government, under whose authority this issue rests. Our attention must first be directed to the degree to which land use and planning may be affected. The Reconciliation Action Plan created and approved by Toronto City Council strives to establish what they see as ‘collaborative decision making within many divisions whose work impacts Indigenous Peoples, land and water.’ There’s the first challenge, and one that will undoubtedly give rise to conflicts over what constitutes Indigenous lands, whether subject to Treaty disputes or not. Consider; every Oshawa council or committee meeting begins with a rather lengthy Land Acknowledgement statement, which among other things, seeks to recognize ‘our role in addressing the negative impacts that colonization continues to have.’ Those are strong words, and it is not unreasonable to suggest major decisions on residential and commercial developments could be challenged by appointed members whose mandate, some would say understandably, may include a focus on leveraging their ability to halt certain projects. The Association of Municipalities of Ontario makes reference to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as a foundation for building relationship agreements. There’s the second challenge, being the potential for appointed councillors to bring the specter of international law to bear on local decisions. Municipalities do not have full access to information on Crown-Indigenous relations, nor do they have the financial resources or the capacity to assume any responsibility in that regard. Enhancing Indigenous civic engagement is certainly a positive step, however the prospect of bringing the debate directly into a city council chamber is unwise and unfair to all concerned. Consider this; Oshawa’s Safety & Facilities Services committee recently recommended to Council that the Open Air Burning Bylaw be amended to allow for ‘Sacred Fires’ which is a reference to a typical ceremonial fire of deep spiritual and cultural significance to many Indigenous Peoples. The staff report includes a reference to, among other things, the United Nations when recommending that such open air burning be exempt from the City’s Fire Permit process. Further consultations were made with the City’s Diversity, Equity and Reconciliation Division, specifically the Indigenous Relations Advisor. The City of Toronto already recognizes Sacred Fires, however they still require appropriate documentation to be submitted to their Fire Services to initiate a site safety review, as these fires are known to sometimes burn for days on end. Residents have a right to be concerned as to what appears to be the complete absence of due diligence on the part of the City of Oshawa to include the necessary safety provision requirements over Sacred Fires. The proposed exclusion from the Fire Permit process may reasonably be seen as over-zealousness on the part of the Diversity gang whose staffing level was in fact increased by Mayor Dan Carter in his latest budget. It is that kind of pressure that results in bad policy decisions, and the prospect of appointing one or more unelected members to any city council to potentially further advance such ideas is wrong. Circling back to the City of Toronto, a spokesman for the Ford government had this to say when asked about the ongoing efforts by Mayor Chow and her closest colleagues to appoint unelected members to council: “People have the right to elect their representatives. We will always support that right.” Daniel Tate, from the watchdog group IntegrityTO had this to say: “It’s really concerning that a taxpayer-funded committee thinks it’s appropriate to invent unelected council positions based on identity.” As to the final results of this debate, time alone will tell, however now that the issue is being studied, debated, and reported on by the media, you can rest assured this affront to democracy will someday be approved, and as with so many changes at the municipal level, city councils across Ontario will rush to step in line to enact similar policy changes in their own municipalities. Last year, Hamilton councillors voted down a similar proposal that would have seen their city become the first to have unelected members of council. At the time, councillor Tom Jackson offered up these words, which one can only hope will resonate with others, including Oshawa councillors, “I will not support the exploration of adding a non-elected seat. Imagine the supreme, ultimate honour of an Indigenous person… running for elected office… and winning” That is exactly how it works in a democracy.