*** A CONVERSATION WITH ROBERT BELL ***

THE THIRD OF MY SUMMER SERIES COLUMNS *** A CONVERSATION WITH ROBERT BELL *** THE HERITAGE OSHAWA COMMITTEE continues to be well served by my friend Robert Bell, a man who truly cares about the history of his community. His photographs on social media number into the tens of thousands, and he has long been regarded as the unofficial photographer of all things Oshawa. This is his story. Born at Oshawa General in 1959, Robert has made it his mission to share all that makes his hometown a great place to live – and for him the reason is simple: “Our collective experiences form the basis of the human condition.” In this regard he has become a sort of pioneer, seeking to put on record all that may represent the best examples of community bridge-building among those he likes to call “connector people”. Robert’s father was a postman, and Robert himself attended the University of Toronto, graduating in 1983 with a 4-Year BA Honours in Economics and Political Science. When I asked him as to the key to his success in such a rigorous program, he said with confidence “I was required to read many books, and in every instance I would try to become one with the author, taking on his mindset to the point where I could write my own quotations on his behalf.” The costs of his education were met through creative means, and his summer jobs included a stint at Dupont in Whitby, however the bulk of my friend’s income was derived through furniture refinishing. “In point of fact, most of the raw material came from local landfills.” Robert explained it this way: “I would venture out to the dump each week, and always come back with more than I went out with.” Unlike most, my friend can boast local political ties within his own family, being a descendant of Abel Wilder Ewers, an early Ontario County politician, and a radical of his time. Ewers was a Reach Township man, much given to the ‘cause of the people’. Further such family political ties include a connection to Ruth Bestwick, who served for 14 years on Oshawa Council. As to his possibly running for office, he said his penchant for always reaching a consensus is reason enough for his disqualification. “Elected officials are duty bound to ultimately reach a decision, even when the facts are perhaps less than clear, and I can’t see myself making such a commitment when there exists even an element of doubt on my part.” The two of us then discussed Oshawa’s future, and I asked him to provide a few insights on the subject. He instantly delivered: “One should always start with a historical perspective, and an appreciation of history by linking our future to our past.” he said. “We were a community long before we became a city, and it’s people that make the difference.” In his view, we must always seek to modernize, and he illustrated this point by referencing the renovation of the Genosha Hotel, a historic building that maintains its outward identity, but with a focus on the future and new opportunities. Robert obtained his real estate license in 1986, at the urging of those who knew of his buying and selling antiques. Looking back, he says “My friends thought I was a natural born salesman, and that gave me the necessary encouragement to take the plunge and get into the world of real estate.” Among those who played a major role in the development of his career was Lloyd Corson, a well-known Oshawa realtor who started Guide Realty in 1961, and who passed away at the age of 95 in 2012. Also prominent in his career was Keith Peters, another well-known realtor who passed away in 2018. Fast forward to today, and you’ll see Robert’s name on Coldwell Banker signs, as he enjoys a productive business relationship with his colleagues. When not at work, my friend spends his time collecting books and antiques, chatting on social media, and enjoying his time as a member of the North Shore Amateur Radio Club. His collection of radio equipment is impressive, and the work of a serious enthusiast, however, it is his interest in photography that has gained him a significant presence on social media and throughout the community. At the age of five, he was given his first camera, a Kodak 127 model. After years of taking photos on family outings and during special occasions, it was Robert’s entry into real estate that caused him to purchase a professional camera, eventually upgrading to digital. What he calls “the biggest transformation” occurred in 2012, when he purchased a Cannon 60D. From that day on his interest in photography exploded. To illustrate this, he looks to his Facebook and Twitter accounts, and talks of having uploaded many thousands of photos, with almost two million views. He has attended too many local events and gatherings to count, and the number of people who have been captured by Robert’s lens is staggering. According to my friend, his experiences have shown most people to be naturally drawn towards the camera, wherever he may be, and for him that’s a good thing. At this point in what amounted to a very long and interesting conversation, we decided to venture out to one of Robert’s favourite spots for a fish and chip takeout, and as usual my friend was immediately recognized by one or two regulars, and a hearty conversation began. I moved over to the counter where the owner of the shop was gently wrapping fried fish in newspaper – a tradition I had thought long gone. She told me of the many people who have come to know “the man in the suit” and how customers look forward to chatting with my friend about whatever may be happening around town. As Robert and I made the journey back in a car filled with the aroma of fish and chips, I told him he was certainly liked and respected by the people in the restaurant, and I suspect this is true wherever he may venture throughout the city. He laughed modestly and told me of a book he was reading, a book about the power of families and neighbourhoods. With a grateful tone, he said, “the author writes about communities, and how all of us bear a responsibility for each other, and I think that’s true.”

They’re Turning Pickering Into a Nuclear Dump — And They’re Doing It Quietly

They’re Turning Pickering Into a Nuclear Dump — And They’re Doing It Quietly By Councillor Lisa Robinson Something is happening in Pickering, and most people don’t even know it. The federal government — through the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) has quietly approved a new nuclear waste storage structure at the Pickering Waste Management Facility (PWMF). You weren’t notified. You weren’t consulted. And unless you’ve been tracking federal regulatory bulletins, you probably didn’t even hear about it. But make no mistake — it’s happening. This facility is located right on the Pickering Nuclear site, just steps from the shoreline of Lake Ontario, and directly adjacent to residential neighbourhoods, schools, and parks. It’s operated by Ontario Power Generation (OPG), and is already used to store low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste — things like contaminated tools, filters, and building materials from inside the reactors. So what’s the big deal? This new structure is being built to handle waste from two sources: The decommissioning of Reactors 1 to 4 — which are already offline or being phased out. And — this is key — the possible future refurbishment of Reactors 5 to 8. Now here’s what they don’t want to say out loud: The refurbishment of Units 5 to 8 has not been approved. The formal application won’t even be heard until 2026. And yet — they’re already building the storage site for the waste it would create. This is what happens when decisions are made before the public has a chance to speak. The hearing is still a year away, but the groundwork is already being poured — physically and politically. Let’s talk numbers: Out of a city of over 100,000 people, just nine members of the public submitted feedback on this waste facility. Nine. There was no mailing. No town hall. No door-knocking. No real attempt to inform or involve the community. That’s not public consultation — that’s engineered silence. And while all of this is happening behind the scenes, look who’s suddenly setting up shop in Pickering: SNC-Lavalin — now rebranded as AtkinsRéalis — the same company tied to one of the biggest political scandals in Canadian history. They now own CANDU Energy, the engineering firm that handles nuclear refurbishments. They’ve worked on reactors at Bruce and Darlington — and now, they’re clearly positioning themselves to take on the refurbishment of Pickering’s Units 5 to 8. So let’s put it all together: A new waste facility has already been approved. A refurbishment that hasn’t been approved is being prepared for. A company with political ties is moving in early. And the people of Pickering have been completely cut out of the process. They’ll tell you this is about energy, progress, and modernization. But when radioactive waste is being stored beside homes — for reactors that haven’t even been given the green light — and residents aren’t even told? That’s not modernization. That’s a betrayal of public trust. Let’s be absolutely clear: This is not a done deal. The future of Units 5 to 8 is still subject to public hearings. But what’s being built — and who’s moving into town — tells you how little they care about what you think. So here’s what I’m asking you to do: Demand a public meeting. Ask OPG and the City why you weren’t consulted. File a Freedom of Information request. The paper trail matters. Talk to your neighbours. Most people still don’t know this is happening. Share this op-ed. Get the truth out before it’s too late. Make it clear: Pickering is not Canada’s nuclear dumping ground Email me your thoughts at lrobinson@pickering.ca “Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Fear, But In The Courage To Face It Head On And Rise Above It” - Lisa Robinson 2023On And Rise Above It: Lisa Robinson 2023

DID I GET IT WRONG? MUST I BE 17!!!

DID I GET IT WRONG? MUST I BE 17!!! B.A. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States Excuse me... Has my mind gone south so badly that I am getting it wrong. You work hard all your life to feed your family. You sacrifice day in and day out all while keeping a smile on your face. You teach your children to be good people.... only to pick up local newspaper and read how 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 year olds are getting busted for drugs and weapons possession. 1st question. Do I really want these types of youth next to mine? Do, I want them in my tax paid school system? 2nd. I am driving home in my paid for car on my paid for road. Having had to pay for insurance, gas and repairs only to be pulled off the road by a police office checking if I am wearing my seat belts. Now don’t get me wrong.  I have nothing against police officers doing their jobs. But when teens are running around our streets with guns dealing drugs. I have a problem with the way justice is being dispensed. Not only that. If I want to buy a gun to protect my property and family. I must spend thousands of dollars. Go to courses, get licenses and the God’s know what other obstacles I will be made to jump. How did these individual, these kids get guns? I know the old cry.... Oh they come from broken homes. They are lost souls in a society that pushes them to crime. I say bull. Children are children. Crime is crime. Let’s not cross the line and then blame it on the child’s upbringing. I think police services should hold parent or guardians responsible for their kids actions. No soft love. Bring discipline to the family. Now I do not mean abuse. I mean structure, where everyone has a responsibility and a role. A family institution that has worked. In past generations there have been many that come from broken homes. From homes with abuse, substance issues and yes drug use. Many of those victims managed to have the enough sense to get out and make a life for themselves. What has gone wrong from then to today? The answer is simple. Event though homes may have been broken. The family structure was still the root of social development. Today, with all kind of violence found in games, television. Children are brought up without discipline and the believe that they have special rights to do as they please. This compounded with crime. We have what we have today. Let’s take charge of our families and work on improving our future generations.

A Short History of the Canada US Tariffs War

A Short History of the Canada US Tariffs War by Maj (ret’d) CORNELIU, CHISU, CD, PMSC FEC, CET, P.Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East We are fast approaching a difficult deadline in negotiations in the tariff war between Canada and United States. In a couple of days we may be in for a shattering awakening. The United States has recently made preliminary agreements with Japan and the European Union for a tariff of 15%. However, for the moment, Canada is still being threatened with a 35% tariff and no signs from President Trump that he may eventually lighten the load. Was he deliberately mocking us when he stated a few days ago that Canada is not a priority for him? Surely, he jests. The 2025 Canada–United States tariff war marks one of the most serious trade disputes in the modern history of the two countries. As two of the world’s closest trading partners, Canada and the United States have long benefited from free trade agreements such as NAFTA and its successor, the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA). However, the return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency in January 2025 set the stage for a dramatic shift in American trade policy. President Trump campaigned on a strong protectionist platform, promising to revive American manufacturing and reduce dependence on foreign imports. On February 1, 2025, he signed executive orders imposing sweeping tariffs: 25% on most Canadian imports and 10% on Canadian oil, gas, and potash. He justified these measures on the grounds of national security and unfair trade practices, invoking sections 232 and 301 of U.S. trade law. The tariffs officially took effect on March 4, 2025. Canada responded immediately by imposing 25% tariffs on approximately CA$30 billion worth of U.S. products, targeting politically sensitive sectors such as steel, aluminum, household appliances, and certain agricultural goods. Both governments adopted an increasingly confrontational tone, with President Trump threatening even higher tariffs if Canada did not agree to new trade terms. In the following months, the U.S. introduced increasingly stringent measures. Tariffs on steel rose to 50%, and auto parts not fully produced in North America faced 25% duties. Canada expanded its retaliation, increasing tariffs on additional U.S. goods and filing challenges at the World Trade Organization. By mid-spring, the trade dispute had disrupted key industries, particularly in the automotive, steel, aluminum, and forestry sectors. On May 28, 2025, a U.S. trade court ruled that some of the new tariffs exceeded the president’s authority under emergency powers. However, tariffs imposed under national security (Section 232) and unfair trade (Section 301) provisions were deemed fair, and were therefore upheld. That left most of the measures in place. The tariff war caused immediate economic disruption. The automotive industry, deeply integrated across the United States–Canada border, reported billions of dollars in losses. Stellantis, a major automaker, alone projected a US$1.7 billion hit in 2025 as shipments fell by about 25%. United States tariffs on Canadian lumber were increased to an effective rate of around 35%, pushing up housing and construction costs in the United States. Canadian aluminum producers began diverting exports to Europe and other markets to reduce reliance on the U.S. For consumers, prices of imported goods rose on both sides of the border. Small and medium-sized businesses reported difficulties claiming USMCA exemptions, meaning that they were paying full tariffs even on qualifying goods. The Canadian public reacted strongly to what many people perceived as United States economic bullying. Consumer boycotts of American goods and travel to the United States gained widespread support. Politicians from across the spectrum called for Canada to diversify trade relationships, deepen ties with Europe and Asia, and reduce its economic dependence on the United States. Through mid-2025, trade talks between the two countries remained deadlocked. Trump set an August 1, 2025 deadline for a new bilateral trade deal, threatening to impose 35% tariffs on Canadian imports if no agreement was reached. At the same time, he floated the idea of a universal “world tariff” of 15–20% on imports from all countries, which could further harm Canadian exporters. Canadian officials, led by Prime Minister Mark Carney, describe the current talks as being in an “intense phase,” but they acknowledge that a comprehensive deal before the deadline is unlikely. Canada has continued to prepare new retaliatory measures and pursued formal disputes through the World Trade Organization. The 2025 Canada–U.S. tariff war has underscored the fragility of even the closest trade relationships when political priorities shift. While the two countries remain bound by the USMCA, the conflict highlights the limits of trade agreements in constraining unilateral tariff actions. As of late July 2025, the outcome of the negotiations—and the future of North American trade integration—remains uncertain, with significant economic and political consequences looming for both nations. Let us hope for the best, and good luck to Canada in making the best possible deal for its people!

Terminations by Employers for Off Duty Conduct

Terminations by Employers for Off Duty Conduct By Tahir Khorasanee, LL.M. Senior Associate, Steinbergs LLP When an employee’s misconduct occurs outside of office hours, employers must tread carefully between protecting their reputation and respecting individual privacy. Striking that balance has become a pressing challenge as social media and public visibility blur the line between personal life and professional role. Legal experts agree that discipline for off‑duty behaviour is only justified when there is a clear connection to the employment relationship. An employer needs to show that the conduct undermines its business interests, damages its reputation, or directly impacts workplace harmony. Without that link, disciplinary action risks violating privacy laws and human rights protections. Certain positions carry an elevated duty of public trust, making off‑duty discipline more readily defensible. Police officers, teachers, health‑care professionals and high‑level executives are held to a higher standard because misconduct outside work can erode public confidence and impede effective job performance. In one recent British Columbia case, a special provincial constable was terminated after an off‑duty altercation that received local media coverage. The court upheld the dismissal, noting the incident’s serious damage to the constable’s credibility and the force’s integrity. By contrast, employers should think twice before disciplining rank‑and‑file employees for private‑life choices. Courts have ruled that social media posts or lifestyle decisions, however distasteful, warrant discipline only if they are illegal or if they create a foreseeable risk in the workplace—such as disclosing confidential information or harassing co‑workers online. Employers need very strong, narrowly tailored policies to intervene in off‑duty conduct. To reduce legal exposure, organizations are advised to adopt clear, accessible off‑duty conduct policies that define the scope of prohibited behaviour, outline potential disciplinary measures, and provide examples of real‑world scenarios. Regular training for managers ensures consistent application and guards against unconscious bias. “A well‑drafted policy is your best defense,” says HR consultant Laura Patel. “Ambiguity invites disputes.” When an incident arises, fair process is essential. Employers should investigate thoroughly, afford the employee an opportunity to respond, and apply progressive discipline where appropriate. Immediate termination without warning may be defensible in extreme cases—such as violent or criminal acts—but risks being overturned if the employer cannot show prior guidance or if the conduct bears no direct link to the workplace. Beyond legal risk, off‑duty discipline carries reputational stakes. Public perception of an employer punishing someone for harmless personal conduct can prompt social‑media backlash, harming morale and consumer goodwill. A well‑known retailer learned this lesson after briefly suspending an employee over controversial political views expressed on social media. Public outcry prompted a swift reversal and a costly public apology. Experts also note the importance of proportionality. If an employee’s off‑duty conduct has no tangible effect on job performance, a verbal reminder may suffice; more serious infractions might call for written warnings or temporary suspension. In determining an appropriate response, employers should weigh factors such as the nature of the misconduct, its frequency, the employee’s disciplinary history, and the potential impact on co‑workers and clients. For companies operating across multiple jurisdictions, local legislation adds another layer of complexity. Privacy statutes in Canada, for example, protect employees from overly intrusive inquiries into personal social‑media activity. Employers must ensure that any monitoring or investigation of off‑duty conduct complies with provincial privacy laws and applicable human rights codes. As the boundary between personal and professional lives continues to blur, balancing organizational interests with respect for individual rights grows ever more complex. Employers that invest in clear policies, manager training, and fair investigative processes position themselves to respond effectively when off‑duty issues arise—protecting both their brand and their employees’ fundamental rights. In an era where a single social‑media post can reach thousands within minutes, the question is not whether off‑duty conduct will come to light, but how employers will respond. The answers lie in thoughtful policy design, consistent enforcement, and a measured approach to discipline that respects both the workplace and the private sphere.

Are Regular Canadians Racist or Just Tired of Being Ignored?

Are Regular Canadians Racist or Just Tired of Being Ignored? By Dale Jodoin Are you a racist if you say the word “deport”? What if you say “illegal immigrant”? What if you simply want your family to get help before newcomers do? Lately, it feels like regular Canadians, especially working-class ones can’t say anything without being called a racist. But is it really racism? Or is it just plain frustration? Let’s get something straight. The average Canadian is tired. Tired of paying high taxes. Tired of watching their grandparents struggle on fixed incomes. Tired of single moms working two jobs just to afford groceries. And while all that is happening, we see newcomers getting free housing in hotels, bonus cheques, legal support, and fast-track programs. If you question that, you're racist. If you ask why a hotel was turned into a shelter for people who just arrived, you're far-right. If you say “my kid deserves a fair shot,” you're hateful. It’s gotten so backwards, it’s laughable. And it’s not just here. This same pattern is happening across Europe. In France, Germany, the Netherlands, the U.K. regular people are being silenced, shamed, or even punished for raising concerns. Say the wrong word, and you're branded dangerous. We’re not talking about bigots waving signs. We’re talking about quiet Canadians truck drivers, janitors, grandmothers, hockey moms who’ve stayed silent for too long. Now they’re speaking up. And instead of being heard, they’re being labeled. We were told diversity was our strength. Fair enough. But now it feels like we're being told to shut up and move over in our own home. You can’t call that “inclusion” if it means exclusion for the people who built the house. People are watching their daughters lose spots on sports teams to biological males and get told it’s progress. When they speak up, they’re shouted down. Racist. Bigot. Transphobe. But most of them aren’t any of those things. They’re just parents. They’re just trying to protect their kids in a world that keeps changing the rules. And it’s not just Canadian parents British families, German parents, French citizens who are dealing with the same fights. Speak up and you’re silenced. Not because what you said was wrong, but because it didn’t match the official narrative. Here’s the new rule: If you’re most regular Canadians or anyone in the West with traditional values everything you say is taken the wrong way. You say you care about border security? Racist. Do you want immigrants to follow the law? Racist. You think your daughter shouldn’t have to compete against a 6'2” man in a dress for a volleyball scholarship? Bigot. But who’s really dividing the country? Is it the people trying to protect their culture, language, and values? Or is it the politicians, the activists, the university mobs who say nothing is sacred anymore? When you see people attacking Jewish Canadians in the streets and nobody stops them because the attackers are “international students,” something is broken. When you say “they should be deported,” and they call you racist for wanting to uphold the law something is very wrong. You don’t get to punch someone in the face, then hide behind your student visa. And Europe is seeing the same thing: students calling for the destruction of Israel while attacking Jews in broad daylight, with governments too scared to step in. Try calling that out in London, and you’ll get police at your door for a hate crime complaint. Let’s say this out loud. Regular Canadians are not racist. They’re exhausted. They’ve watched their wages get eaten by inflation. They’ve seen their tax dollars fly overseas while the food bank down the street runs out of peanut butter. They’ve seen their local emergency room shut down while the government cuts a check to help another crisis somewhere else. They’ve been told their history is shameful. Their traditions are offensive. Their faith is outdated. Their accent is wrong. Their skin colour is a problem. And still, they work. Still, they give. Still, they hang on. But now they’re angry. Not because of someone’s race or religion but because the system they paid into is failing them. And when they ask questions, they’re told to shut up. That’s not democracy. That’s bullying. And it’s spreading across Europe, across the West regular people are being scolded for wanting the country they were raised in to still feel like home. And now, globally, there’s another group pushing regular folks out of their lives the rich. Wealthy elites from Canada, the U.S., and Europe are buying up property in poor countries Mexico, Portugal, Thailand and driving the prices sky high. Locals can't even afford to live in their own neighbourhoods anymore. Gentrification has gone global. The people with money bounce from country to country, driving up the cost of housing, food, and land while calling it “investment.” What used to be affordable homes are now overpriced Airbnbs. What used to be communities are now playgrounds for expats. This isn’t just about immigration anymore. It’s about class, control, and a growing gap between those who make the rules and those forced to live under them. Let’s take a real look at what’s going on. People are flooding into Canada, some legally, some not. Some want to be part of the country. Others want to change it into the one they left behind. When a Canadian questions that, suddenly they're worse than Hitler. But when a group of international students chants slogans calling for violence and attacks people on the street, that’s just “free speech”? No. That’s hypocrisy. And here’s the worst part: the media plays along. The government funds the same outlets that shame the people footing the bill. The same news anchors who sip coffee in downtown Toronto call farmers in Saskatchewan “dangerous extremists.” They call tired dads "alt-right" because they post a meme. They call moms "bigots" for standing up at school board meetings. All for saying what any parent would: “Leave my kid alone.” And in Europe, it's the same: regular people are the new villains if they ask where their taxes are going or why their neighbourhood has changed overnight. When your heating bill is $800, and you see money going to luxury housing for newcomers, you get angry. When your son can’t get a job but your city is handing out welcome bonuses to people who just arrived, you ask why. When you say you want Canadian values protected, and you get told you’re a threat, you start to wonder: who really owns this country anymore? These aren’t racist thoughts. These are survival instincts. It’s the voice of someone trying to feed a family while the people in charge are throwing your money out the window and calling it charity. The same voice is rising across Europe: regular people who’ve had enough, who feel forgotten, who’ve watched their communities change without their say. And now it’s rising from towns in Mexico to cities in Portugal where locals watch their homes turn into resorts for digital nomads who fly in with cash and leave everyone else behind. Let’s stop pretending it’s racist to care about your country, your family, your future. You can love your neighbour without letting them walk all over you. You can support fair immigration without wanting your kids pushed aside. You can be proud of being Canadian or British, or French without being ashamed of your values, your roots, or your voice. The real racists? They’re the ones who believe only certain groups have the right to speak. The real danger? A society that silences its own citizens and praises outsiders for breaking the rules. We’re not going to let that happen. This isn’t hate. This is heartbreak. This is frustration. This is the voice of someone who’s had enough. Canadians and millions of others across Europe and beyond are done being quiet. We’re not racists. We’re realists. We pay the bills. We work the jobs. We keep these countries running. And we’re tired of being told we’re the problem.

The EV Mandate Is Not About the Environment It’s About Control

The EV Mandate Is Not About the Environment It’s About Control By Councillor Lisa Robinson In just six months, the federal government will begin phasing out your ability to buy a gas-powered car in Canada. Starting January 1, 2026, automakers will be required to ensure that 20% of all new vehicle sales are electric. By 2035, that number rises to 100%. You won’t be allowed to buy a new gas car — at all. They say this isn’t a ban. But if you can’t buy one, what else would you call it? This isn’t just about vehicles — it’s about freedom. Your freedom of movement. Your freedom to choose. And your freedom to live without being micromanaged by unelected bureaucrats, global bodies, and digital tracking systems. Let’s be honest: electric vehicles are not realistic for the average working Canadian. They’re expensive, impractical, and pose safety and environmental risks most people aren’t being told about. Yet instead of listening, the government is doubling down — threatening automakers with $20,000 fines per gas vehicle sold above quota, unless they buy “credits” from companies like Tesla. So who profits? Not Canadian families. Not our auto workers. While we get punished, companies like Tesla cash in. That’s not environmental policy. That’s economic manipulation dressed in green. Here in Pickering, this agenda is already in motion. On June 9, 2025, Council voted to expand EV chargers across the city — at fire halls, libraries, and community centres. This, despite the fact that our current chargers are underused, financially unsustainable, and losing money. There is no mass demand. There is no local mandate. And yet the rollout continues — paid for by you, the taxpayer. Let’s be honest: most residents in Pickering cannot afford a $70,000 electric vehicle. But they’re now being asked to subsidize chargers for those who can. This isn’t equity. It’s upward redistribution — and it’s not right. Worse still, EVs come with risks no one wants to talk about. Their batteries burn longer and hotter than regular cars — and are difficult to extinguish. They leach toxic chemicals into the environment. Less than 5% of these batteries are actually recycled. And the materials used to make them? Often sourced through child labour in the Congo, and mined in ways that devastate ecosystems around the world. This is what they call “sustainable.” But this isn’t just about batteries, or even cars. It’s about the digital infrastructure being quietly built beneath it all. Every EV charger logs your location and data. Every networked grid ties into a broader vision — one that includes smart cities, 15-minute zones, carbon credit systems, digital ID, and even restrictions on when and where you can travel. Not to mention, they can be shut down by a push of button, without your consent. These aren’t conspiracy theories. They’re published goals. And they’re happening right now under the guise of climate action. Pickering is part of ICLEI — a global network aligned with the United Nations, the World Economic Forum, and Agenda 2030. Their motto is: “Think globally, act locally.” But when did you vote for that? You didn’t. And neither did I. These policies are being pushed through local councils, often quietly, with little to no public consultation. But the consequences are national — and generational. Make no mistake: this isn’t about reducing emissions. It’s about increasing control. Because once you accept that government can dictate what you drive, it’s only a matter of time before they dictate where you go, how often you go there, and whether you’re even allowed to drive at all. What starts with your car ends with your freedom. I didn’t run for office to stay silent. I ran to stand up. I opposed the EV charger expansion in Pickering because I believe we should be listening to the people — not pushing global agendas disguised as local policy. This isn’t about being anti-environment. It’s about being pro-choice — in the most fundamental way. You should have the right to choose how you live, how you move, and how you provide for your family. This isn’t just about cars. It’s about freedom, fairness, and the future of Canada. It starts in six months. And it ends only when you say you’ve had enough. Councillor Lisa Robinson The People’s Councillor “Strength does not lie in the absence of fear, but in the courage to face it head on and rise above it.

Our Self Deceptions Are Being Watched

Our Self Deceptions Are Being Watched By Diana Gifford I’m writing this column with a pencil and paper, in a therapeutic affirmation that what results comes only from me and my thoughts. I’m making a point about authenticity. There is something truly cathartic – and healthy – about “being oneself”. One’s authentic self. No mirrors. No makeup. No pretenses. Authenticity is hard to define. Put simply, you might say it is an alignment between a person’s internal state and external expression. I wonder how many people feel they have achieved personal authenticity. How many even try for it? Common sense would suggest being authentic is tied to health and happiness. But I need to set down my pencil and resort to a keyboard and research repositories to find out how significant the relationship is. And it turns out, the results are compelling and not surprising. Authenticity is a key mechanism producing healthy personal relationships. It reduces strain at work and is associated with higher job performance and satisfaction. In online contexts as well, authenticity is positively associated with self-esteem and negatively with anxiety. But humans have a self-destructive gene. Why do so many people engage in foolish behaviours that are so clearly not in their best interest? Smoking is the obvious example. But there are many, many more. And the consequences are detrimental. When people consistently make outward life choices that don't align with their internal values and beliefs, it triggers a chronic stress response – one that ultimately takes a toll on their health. Think about what you are doing now, tonight, or tomorrow. If you are not comfortable with it being splashed on the frontpage of the national newspaper, then reevaluate and get things fixed! It may mean coming to terms with hard habits to break. It may mean a few tough discussions. But beware, because the days of being able to hide our private problems are coming to an end. We are being observed. And listened to. The humourous advice used to be, “Don’t pick your nose in the front yard.” The neighbours could be watching. Now, in the privacy of your own home, you can’t express dissatisfaction with a mess on the floor without an advertisement for a vacuum cleaner popping up on your smart phone sometime soon after. For better or for worse, the world has become – in large part thanks to the unrelenting tsunami of invasive technology – a fine habitat for the exposure of inauthenticity, because we are being watched even when we think we have some privacy. We must adapt or perish. So no better time than now to be your authentic self. Take a moment to recalibrate. What would you not want broadcast on a jumbotron? What misdoings need your management and corrections. How can you fix your problems before they get out of hand? It seems to me there are just two options. One, cut out of your life anything you currently feel you need to hide. Get rid and be done with it. If you can’t talk about it with your spouse, your kids, or your neighbours, you had better have a good reason – as in, you are an intelligence officer – otherwise, dismantle these things and banish them forever away. Alternatively, talk about them. Bring them out in the open. Invite reasonable minds to work out the details with you, so that you can be an authentic individual. We are up against tough circumstances, bitter fighting, and dangerous affairs in this crazy world of ours. We’d all be a lot better off if we accepted each other for who we are and stopped all the fooling around. _________________________________________________________________________ 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

DEAL BREAKER…

DEAL BREAKER... By Wayne and Tamara As I sit on my computer emailing a woman I could start an affair with, I search for answers. Your explanations about infidelity are plausible, reasonable, and thoughtful, but I still have questions I would like to ask. I would like to start by saying I love my wife, but we are at a crossroads. My wife seems to have an unknown mental aversion to sex, something neither of us recognized upon meeting the first time. She saved herself for marriage, only to find she did not care for sex. We have been and are in counseling. Our therapist has tried to give my wife tools and direction to focus on our sex life, while telling my wife and me she is surprised by my understanding, support, and patience. Unfortunately, in seven years not much has changed, and I'm looking for a balance between self and marital preservation. I work with someone who obviously has issues of her own with her marriage, and she introduced the idea of having an affair. I'm not one to complain about my wife openly, nor did I confide in this woman, prior to her offer, about my own marital problems. It simply was based upon a mutual unconscious attraction, as best as I can tell. Prior to having anyone in mind, I once asked my wife if she would allow me to have an affair. While crying and shaking her head no, she told me that I could. I am old enough to know I am reaching middle age where I will be more interested in planning my retirement than becoming the table-dancing, lampshade-on-the-head guy at the next wild party. I do not want to go into those years without a fulfilling, active sex life. My wife is the kindest, warmest, most caring human being I know. She would do anything for anyone, but she is greatly struggling with what her husband wants and needs. We work together to raise our children, pay our bills, and juggle our finances. So, standing upon the precipice of infidelity, I'm asking for advice. I’m beyond asking my wife and our therapist for help because the result is the same. Don Don, a fulfilling, active sex life is not something you can purchase at Walmart. You think your wife is standing between you and a given. It is not a given. You have a mental picture of what things will be like, but having an affair could change your life in ways you cannot imagine. You want a great sex life with someone who wants sex, but the woman who suggested an affair has more on her mind than a roll in the hay. She wants out of her marriage and a new man. Women don’t give away sex for free. A young girl having sex isn’t getting anything out of it except to say, “He’s my boyfriend, he loves me.” A mature woman may get pleasure from sex, but her underlying desire is still love. If you find a woman who wants only sex, you will get a woman who has been altered or damaged in some way. If you find a woman you have great chemistry with, you will think you love her and want to be with her. The idea of saving yourself for marriage goes hand in hand with the idea sex is for procreation, not pleasure. Perhaps your wife is the way she is because of religious conditioning. Possibly she is one of those women who are nonorgasmic. Since she is not excited about sex, it is a gruesome event. We don’t know what her issue is, but we do know she shook her head no. That’s her answer. The body doesn’t go along with lies coming from the mouth. It boils down to this. You have to decide what you want: wife and kids, or the risks that come from going outside your marriage. Wayne & Tamara

A Sense of Sonder How Everyone is Connected Through Emotion and Human Experience

A Sense of Sonder How Everyone is Connected Through Emotion and Human Experience By Camryn Bland Youth Columnist As individuals, our daily lives are crowded with personal worries, from our finances to the future to what we’re eating for dinner. We are so fixated on ourselves, that we rarely slow down to look at the bigger picture; not just the bigger picture of our own lives, but of the lives of others. We are one of 8.2 billion people currently living on Earth, and yet we often act as if we are the only person who matters. Every person you see throughout your day is experiencing their own complex life, filled with worries both similar and unique to yours. Lives in which you are a background character, just as they are to you. If we take a moment to analyze the human experience, we would be filled with countless emotions, meanings, and adventures. However, I think most of humanity can be described by one word: sonder. The term was coined by John Koenig in 2012, when he published the book The dictionary of Obscure Sorrows. According to dictionary.com, sonder means, “the realization that every other individual you see has a life as full and real as your own, in which they are the central character and others, including yourself, have secondary or insignificant roles.” When first considered, this may seem obvious; of course others are experiencing their own lives. However, there is something special when you really analyze the realization. The human experience is something to be shared, and there are billions of people to share it with. While I am writing this column at my desk, there are mothers giving birth, teens interviewing for their first job, and couples getting married. At the same time, young hearts are being broken, families are losing their loved ones, and countless individuals are getting rejected from their dream lives. Regardless of what we are going through, we are just one person in a community of billions, connected by both the love and loss which makes life worth living. To some, the sense of sonder can cause loneliness and desperation, a feeling that nothing you do has any importance. Why would my life matter, when I am just one of the 117 billion people which have lived on Earth? However, the reality isn’t that our stories aren’t important, it’s just that our stories are among many others of equal value. Our lives can still be reached for and learned from, and they are still worth experiencing. When we consider the lives of others, we realize we are never alone. It is a comfort that my stress isn’t a prominent issue in the grand scheme of things. I may have failed a test, or lost a competition, but those experiences are not new ones. Millions of other individuals have undergone the exact same things as I have, and they have overcome them, just as I will. We may be the centers of our own lives, but none that of others. We need to remember this and act upon it everyday in order to find peace and sincerity. Maybe someone cut you off in traffic, but that’s because they’re trying to make it to the hospital before their wife gives birth. Perhaps your coworker got the promotion you wanted, but the new role means they are able to pay the bills they’ve been struggling to cover. You could get upset at the inconveniences, blame others for your misfortune, but that would just be a waste of time. Instead, you could try to open your eyes to the lives of others, as that is where you will find comfort. Through the sense of sonder, I know I am just one person in a community of billions. No matter what, I will always be a secondary character in the lives of others. So, my goal is to become a secondary character which brings inspiration, happiness and peace. When it comes to the countless people I meet, I hope to bring a smile to their story, as others do to mine.

Job Search Rule #1: Know and Accept What You Can

Job Search Rule #1: Know and Accept What You Can By Nick Kossovan Attributed to Tony Robbins: "What you focus on is where your energy goes." Maintaining steady progress towards your goals, such as securing a job, is straightforward: Always focus on what is within your control. Feeling frustrated or angry usually means you're trying to influence or control someone or something over which you don't have authority. The most effective job search strategy I know is to identify what you can influence and control and then focus your efforts on these areas. What You Can't Control Employers' Decisions: It's their business, not yours. Rightfully, employers make hiring decisions that benefit their interests; your interests, or circumstances, aren't part of their hiring equation. The Job Market: You have no influence or control over the main driving force of the job market, the economy, or the many other factors that shape it, including shifts in consumer demand, automation, AI adoption, changes in age demographics, and government policies. Other People's Behaviour: Job seekers spend a significant amount of time and energy deluding themselves that they can control the behaviour of recruiters and employers. You have no control over disrespectful behaviour, such as ghosting. All you can control is ensuring that a recruiter's or hiring manager's behaviour doesn't derail your job search efforts. Focus on your behaviour, not those of others, and refrain from judging others for sinning differently than you do. What You Do Control Your Behaviour: How you behave publicly, especially on LinkedIn and other social media platforms, impacts your job search. Understandably, job seekers can feel frustrated; however, posts criticizing recruiters and employers show you can't control your emotions, making you someone employers will avoid hiring. Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile: The career story you share on your resume and LinkedIn profile, using quantifying numbers to demonstrate how you added value—employers hire results, not opinions—to previous employers, is entirely within your control. Your Networking Efforts: If you're not actively networking, then be prepared for a lengthy job search. Reach out to those whom you believe can assist with your job hunt. Offer value upfront! A simple networking tip: When you meet someone for the first time, ask yourself, "How can I help this person?" How you interview: An interview is a sales meeting; therefore, treat it as such and avoid the common mistake of spending too much time talking about yourself and too little time learning about what the employer is looking for. Because most job seekers don't focus on what they can control, they fail to understand that they're in complete control of the crucial determining factor of whether they get hired or not: how employers interpret them. As a job seeker, you're responsible for how employers perceive you. If you want a quick job search, then adopt the mindset of hyper-focusing on managing the aspects that employers use to interpret (read: evaluate) candidates. Admittedly, in a world where media and social media platforms design algorithms that support their business models, requiring your attention and eyeballs to benefit their advertisers—their revenue—focusing on what is in the best interest of your job search is easier said than done. Focusing on what's in our best interests is why my wife and I got rid of our TV 15 years ago and made a conscious effort to limit our social media scrolling. We decided we no longer want the media, influencers, and digital strangers telling us what to focus on. Today, I don't start my day like many others, doom-scrolling on LinkedIn and other social media platforms, or reading and watching the news. No checking layoffs. No reading rants. No listening to pundits talk about tariffs or foreign wars. Avoiding other people's panic in the mornings has significantly improved my ability to focus on my goals. Before coffee, I was absorbing fear, dread, and large amounts of negativity and drama from mostly strangers. Unsurprisingly, starting my days with a digital toxic diet led to me not fully engaging in my work, and my cynicism was at an all-time high. I kept having "What's the point?" conversations with myself, which wasn't conducive to doing my best work. So I stopped. My mornings are now sacred, dedicated "me time." I start my day with my priorities (read: what I control)—exercising, journaling, reading, outlining my next column, creating a to-do list for the day, and replying to emails over coffee—that serve my interests. Avoiding negativity that I can't control has noticeably boosted my energy. Just as eating healthy involves choosing nutritious foods, focusing on what's in your best interests means selecting what will mentally nourish you and help you reach your goals. There's a reason negativity is called "a downer." You'd be surprised how much time you free up when you're not focusing on what doesn't serve you. Make two lists regarding your job search: 1. What you can control. 2. What you can't control. Make peace with what you can't control and commit to focusing only on what you can influence or control. Ultimately, you're steering your job search. Only by taking steps in the right direction will you get closer to your next job. _____________________________________________________ Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned corporate veteran, offers “unsweetened” job search advice. Send Nick your job search questions to artoffindingwork@gmail.com.

THE SECOND OF MY SUMMER SERIES COLUMNS *** A CONVERSATION WITH JOE KOLODZIE ***

THE SECOND OF MY SUMMER SERIES COLUMNS *** A CONVERSATION WITH JOE KOLODZIE *** HAVE A GREAT OSHAWA DAY is a sentiment long ago put into words by my friend Joe Kolodzie, a former educator, Alderman, and Oshawa City Councillor. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to chat with Joe about his life experiences, and this is a brief account of a man who has spent his life giving back to his community. Cultural norms between generations are forever evolving, but for Joe Kolodzie, traditional values proved a powerful prescription, having ensured a successful life as a husband and father, educator, and ultimately one of Oshawa’s most respected statesmen. Joe and his twin brother Ed were brought into this world by Dr. Edward Rundle on Christmas Day in 1938, and in their youth, they and their sister Jean enjoyed the benefits of being raised in a close-knit community – a working class neighbourhood where many homes were built by individual families. Joe’s father, Vincent, a Polish immigrant who came to Canada as a skilled carpenter, would eventually build several houses on land that stretches between Olive Avenue and the soon-to-be-removed Albert Street bridge – an area my friend would call home for many years. Joe described to me the hundreds of hours he enjoyed playing basketball in the gymnasium behind Simcoe Hall, at that time run by Harold McNeill, a man Joe credits for having instilled in him a lasting sense of social responsibility. Also a short walk from their home was Holy Cross Catholic School and Church, where Joe would begin his lifetime of learning. He and I discussed his having been an altar boy under the mentorship of Monsignor Coffey, and his having served at funerals where he and his friends would each receive 50 cents for their attendance. He also spoke fondly of having played hockey at the old Oshawa Arena, and his participation on the Sunnyside Park baseball team in 1954. In his own words, my friend describes his years in Albert Street as having been “richly happy” and it’s easy to see why. Having won awards in athletic achievements while a student at Central Collegiate, Joe was also recognized for his overall academic skills in his graduating year. With his diploma in hand, he would move on to the University of Toronto where he obtained his Bachelor of Physical Education as well as his Bachelor of Arts degree at St Michael College in 1962. He would eventually earn his Masters at the University of Ottawa in 1972. This led to a life-long teaching career that would enable Joe to offer a positive influence to his students through coaching, as noted in the Pete Beach Award he received, an honor given to those who are seen as having contributed beyond sport and into a young person’s career and life. Although best known for his election win in the mid-1980’s as a City Alderman, and later as a City & Regional Councillor, one has to look back to the election of 1972 to see the real origins of my friend’s political career, starting with his interest in what he calls “planning for people” and the need to revive a community feeling of pride. He can be seen as a visionary by way of his commitment to the establishment of a network of bike paths and hiking trails throughout the city, ideas that were seemingly well ahead of his time. Joe would go on to lose this first election bid, however his activism remained and he would eventually prevail. Fast forward to the election campaign of 1985. Joe’s brother Ed had been an elected member of Oshawa Council since 1978, and with the urging of friends and family, Joe would once again throw his hat into the ring. By this time he had long established a successful teaching career, and the Kolodzie name was certainly a familiar one. He recalled his election win as “a time of great excitement.” As it happens, Joe would hit the ground running – for what was then known as South Ward 1 & 2, moving a motion two weeks into his first term that would see the City acquire the Second Marsh for preservation and public use. It was a motion that would ultimately be successful, and he told me about Doug Wilson, a well-known and experienced Alderman taking him aside and quietly saying in his ear, ‘I can’t believe you just got elected and managed to get your motion passed!’ Over the course of the next 25 years, Joe’s commitment to his community would fuel many debates at city hall, including his fight for a local community centre in the south end of the city and his push to enact environmentally friendly policies throughout the municipality. The establishment of the Joseph Kolodzie Oshawa Creek Bike Path in 2010 – in honour of his 25 years as an advocate for the health and well-being of the residents of Oshawa, was a testament to my friend’s devotion to his community. His is a legacy that will last for generations to come, and few among the members of council who have helped govern the city can lay claim to such a long lasting achievement. An account of my friend’s life and experiences would not be complete without making reference to one of the most difficult times he has had to face, and that is the passing of his twin brother, political mentor, and friend, Edward Kolodzie. Ed died on October 4, 1997 after a lengthy struggle against the effects of a massive stroke, which left him paralyzed and unable to speak for a number of years. As Joe described it in a very moving tribute to his brother, “Ed was famous for his “Kolodzie’s Laws” and his never-ending efforts to control costs at City Hall.” Joe went on to add, “Our parents’ values were fundamental to Jean, Ed and me, and as Ed would always say, if you see it at home – it rubs off on you.” I encourage my readers to join with me in taking a moment to pay tribute to a true Oshawa statesman; one who helped to forever change this city for the better – for his tireless devotion at giving younger generations a hand up in life, and his endeavors at creating a legacy which, more important than bearing his name, has enabled individuals and families to better enjoy time spent outdoors. As a member of Oshawa Council, Joe brought a sincere willingness to see his hometown governed with fairness, and an understanding of the need to forever maintain a sense of pride for their community. “Have a great Oshawa day!”

$250 Why Not A Million?

$250 Why Not A Million? B.A. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States Municipalities across Durham Region like to go around filling their mouths with... Diversity, Equality and Inclusion.... On how they support local businesses.... Yet, their downtowns are emptying out just as quick as they can roll the hypocrisy off their tongues. The bottom line... they support no one and the only diversity the practice is patronage to those that support them. Equality to those of obvious minority that they use as political tokens to further their political careers. And Inclusion only to those that don’t question and are good brown nosers. Just this week I received a post on social media from Clarington that stated: We’re Reimagining the Waterfront — And We Need You  Share your feedback by July 28, 2025, for a chance to win a $250 VISA gift card Take 10 minutes today to help shape the future of a place we all care deeply about — our stunning 34-km waterfront along Lake Ontario. This is the same municipality that is full of controversy when it comes to their water front. This is the same municipality that has fallen victim to their own ignorance of thinking that posting important municipal information on line is the same as having it published in their only in print newspaper. Yes, they tell the few that actually read Clarington posts online that they have a chance to win a $250 VISA gift card. Why not make it a million? If I had to bet. Clarington has already selected the names, designs and contractors. This post online is nothing but a formality to ease their conscious. This is the same municipality that it’s Mayor. Mayor Adrian Foster, did not return phone calls during the recent fired downtown to his only in print municipal regional newspaper. This is the same mayor that ever since “Stong Mayors” power came in affect. He has become and island in himself. I am truly disappointed in you Adrian. The days we would run in to each other at the local service club we belong to. You appeared to be genuine and down to earth. What happened? Did you bite from the same apple all the other municipal leaders? Has COVID got to you? How is it you have stopped supporting your local businesses? Your local media? You are supposed to unite the community under one common goal... To better the quality of life of all citizens. Posting on a technology you do not understand is not pro- business. Alienating seniors and forcing them to go to a computer to see important information is not inclusive. Forcing those less fortunate that can barely put food on the table and pay rent to purchase a computer and or internet is not inclusive. Adrian... how can you be so cold. This from you that you do not return phone calls to your local media. Open your eyes. Get away from the pack and come back to the people. To all the people. Not just the brown nosers that push your agenda. I hope I am wrong about you. Prove me wrong call me and tell me how wrong I am... Oh and where do I fill out that ballot to win that Visa gift card... as I am one of the many working hard to feed my family. As I am like many that are being kept in the dark by your municipal post online.

How President Trump Woke Up a Sleeping Giant.

How President Trump Woke Up a Sleeping Giant. by Maj (ret’d) CORNELIU, CHISU, CD, PMSC FEC, CET, P.Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East With the tariff war initiated by President Trump, Canada has finally realized that it needs to take care of its own interests in order to preserve its independence and economic wellbeing. First of all, Canada needs to develop the country’s interests in a way that makes it less dependent on other nations. Even the best of friends can change such that you need to stand on your own feet in these strange times of continuing changes on the geopolitical world stage. Canada has many assets to offer the world in this new era of trade, driven by energy security and increasingly powered by clean electricity. Canada’s major trading partners are seeking critical minerals, clean technologies and stable governments. Canada has the competitive advantages to play a leading role in this new marketplace and provide real benefits to the whole country’s economy, including stable jobs and economic growth for years to come. The premiers are clearly aware of this advantage, as we have seen B.C., Ontario, Quebec and Manitoba pitch their emissions-free grids as assets to entice new investments. Nevertheless, to fully seize this advantage, our provincial and federal leaders need to prioritize these Canadian sectors and opportunities, in their discussions about our economic future. Together, they need to set (and meet) goals, create market certainty for investors, and spur capital investments to get things built. I personally feel that for the first time, the Federal government and the Provinces are on the same page in the quest to make Canada stronger in the fight for a better and diversified economy. In view of the weaponized tariffs used by the United States administration to dominate the economy of Canada, Canada seems to have formed a united team to minimize its effects, develop its immense national resources and diversify its trade in proportionate response to the threat. Prime Minister Carney was invited to join the premiers, who gathered in Huntsville Ontario at the meeting of the Council of the Federation. Hosted and chaired by Premier Ford, they talked about eliminating internal trade barriers and President Donald Trump's threat to impose 35 per cent tariffs on a wide variety of Canadian goods on Aug. 1. The premiers’ gathering was a chance for the premiers to focus on ways to build a stronger economy. The Liberal government has passed legislation granting cabinet the power to fast-track major projects it deems to be in the national interest, and is set to open its major projects office by Labour Day. Premiers have submitted their support for projects they would like to see fast-tracked, but Carney has stated that the government has not yet started assembling a list of projects. "We need you to work together to propose ideas and have consensus on the projects that you want to move forward," Carney said, adding that continuous engagement with Indigenous Peoples is a key part of that. The premiers have met with First Nations, Métis and Inuit leaders to involve them in the future development of Canada. Premier Ford also said that the federal government needs to be ready to support industries hit hard by the trade war, and Canada needs to bring onshore the production of things like aluminum cans and steel beams to avoid tariffs. "We need to send them a strong message. We don't have to take a back seat to anyone in the world, and we sure the heck don't have to take a back seat to President Trump," he declared. Ford also praised Carney for being a "brilliant businessman" and said it's refreshing for premiers to work with a prime minister who "has our backs." Prime Minister Carney commended the premiers on the series of trade agreements they have signed to open up access to internal Canadian markets. Ford joined the premiers of Alberta and Saskatchewan in announcing a new memorandum of understanding calling for the construction of new pipelines using Ontario steel. The agreement also calls for the building of new rail lines to help ship critical minerals from yet-to-be approved mines in Ontario's Ring of Fire region to Western Canada. Ford calls the agreement a "game changer" that focuses on shipping Western oil to refineries in southern Ontario and a new deep sea port in James Bay. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she's heard from Prime Minister Carney that he wants to make Canada an energy superpower, and she wants him to drop "nine bad laws" she said are hurting the country's business investment climate. Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said he wants to hear from Prime Minister Carney about how port capacity can be expanded to get more exports to overseas markets and reduce Canada's reliance on U.S. trade. On this occasion, Prime Minister Carney joined the premiers for a two-hour meeting focused largely on updating them on the most recent developments in talks with the United States. Ontario Premier Doug Ford commented that the talks with Prime Minister Carney were “really, really good” and “very, very positive.” “I think we’re all engaged, we’re all united, and we’re standing behind the Prime Minister to make sure that he has a fair and free trade deal for Canada,” Ford said. “Once we communicate with each other and everyone knows which way we’re going, we look and act as a united team moving forward, and that’s exactly what we are right now,” Ford told CTV News in Muskoka. “No one can predict what President Trump is going to throw at us, and I emphasize about being united and making sure that we all sing from the same song sheet.” In conclusion, there are strong new trade winds blowing. Catching them now can speed Canada ahead toward a stronger position in the global economy. Long live Canada!

Pay Transparency Will Streamline Hiring

Pay Transparency Will Streamline Hiring By Tahir Khorasanee, LL.M. Senior Associate, Steinbergs LLP Ontario’s upcoming pay‑transparency rules have divided opinion among employment lawyers and HR professionals. In a recent column, Howard Levitt argued that forcing employers to list salary ranges in job postings would create extra work for businesses and leave job seekers worse off. Yet, these new regulations are designed to make hiring simpler, fairer and more efficient by ensuring everyone knows what to expect from the very start. Starting July 1, 2025, larger Ontario employers must give new hires essential information—like job title, work location, pay period and starting wage—by the first day on the job. Then, as of January 1, 2026, any role advertised publicly will need to include either a specific salary or a clear range. There are sensible exemptions (for internal postings and jobs entirely outside Ontario), but most positions will now come with compensation details up front. To prepare, companies should: Review all current job ads and offer letters to add salary ranges. Update applicant‑tracking systems so every external posting prompts for compensation fields. Keep records of all posted jobs and applications for at least three years in case of a Ministry of Labour review. Smaller businesses can map each role to standard salary bands, making it easy to choose an appropriate range. For roles paying under $200,000 a year, the range must span no more than $50,000—enough flexibility to attract candidates without leaving budgets in question. Instead of red tape, early salary disclosure cuts out mismatches and speeds up hiring. When candidates see the range before they apply, they self‑select: those with wildly different expectations won’t waste anyone’s time. Recruiters can focus on serious contenders, leading to faster interviews, higher offer‑acceptance rates and better retention. In short, clear pay information builds trust and strengthens an employer’s brand. Many companies already ask about salary during prescreening calls or interviews with questions like “What are your expectations?” or “Are you exploring other roles?” The new rules simply standardize that step, embedding clear ranges into every public posting so there are no surprises later on. Successful rollout relies on more than policy changes. HR teams should train hiring managers on the new requirements and equip IT to enforce mandatory salary fields in career portals. Simple dashboards can track which postings comply and flag any missing information. Working with legal counsel ensures the wording is accurate, while technology minimizes manual effort. As Ontario implements its pay‑transparency framework, employers have an opportunity to set the bar. By sharing salary ranges openly, businesses not only meet their legal obligations but also attract the right people and build a culture of fairness. Embracing transparency now will streamline the hiring process and help match the right candidates with the right roles—proving that, far from creating hurdles, pay disclosure is a powerful tool for better recruitment.

Why Are Canadian Jews Under Attack for a War They Didn’t Start?

Why Are Canadian Jews Under Attack for a War They Didn’t Start? By Dale Jodoin A wave of threats, attacks, and hate crimes is sweeping across Canada. Synagogues are being hit with gunfire. Jewish schools are on lockdown. Community centres are being evacuated over bomb threats. In some cities, Jewish students are being harassed and doxxed. Let’s be crystal clear: these attacks are not against a foreign army. They are not acts of protest. They are acts of terrorism targeting innocent Canadian citizens, most of whom have no connection to Israel, its government, or its military. And Canada is not doing nearly enough to stop it. It’s a dark day when Canadian Jews your neighbours, doctors, teachers, classmates are being blamed for something happening half a world away. This isn’t political disagreement. This is hatred, and it’s being fed by a dangerous crowd of radicalized youth hiding behind protest signs and university lanyards. When a schoolgirl can’t walk safely in Toronto because she’s wearing a Star of David, that’s not free speech. That’s terrorism. And when it comes from a foreign student who’s only here on a study permit, the answer should be simple: they should be deported. If they act violently they should be charged. If their goal is to intimidate Canadian citizens based on religion, they are not protestors. They are foreign operatives, plain and simple. And what about the systems that allow this to happen? The colleges that don’t expel these students. The city councils that make excuses. The police that issue warnings but not charges. The school boards that downplay it. At what point do we stop pretending these institutions are neutral? If they let hate spread unchecked, if they choose silence when Jewish families are threatened, then they are no longer protectors. They are participants. And participation in terrorism whether direct or passive is still terrorism. No badge or bureaucratic title should shield them from that truth. Here’s the ugly double standard. If the same kind of violence were happening to Muslims, LGBTQ people, or any other group, the media would explode. There would be press conferences, candlelight vigils, and wall-to-wall outrage. But when it’s Jews? Suddenly, we get “context.” We hear “It’s complicated.” We get lectures on colonialism and maps. That’s not justice. That’s justification. And it’s shameful. Blaming an entire group for the actions of a state is how the worst chapters in history always begin. It’s scapegoating. And we know where that road leads. But instead of standing against it, some universities hand out flyers. Some unions pass motions calling Jewish businesses “Zionist collaborators.” And some teachers, the very people trusted to educate the next generation, are openly supporting the same groups who call for violence. That’s not activism. That’s organized hate. And if Canadian services public or private aid or excuse this in any form, then they are no better than the ones throwing the rocks. They are terrorists in suits. We’ve seen foreign students in Canada chanting “death to Israel” in the middle of downtown. We’ve seen threats called into Jewish old age homes. We’ve seen Molotov cocktails thrown at synagogues and then watched as police issue vague statements about “ongoing investigations.” No results. No arrests. No charges. So let’s call this what it is: failure. And not by accident. When justice is this quiet, it’s because someone’s turned down the volume on purpose. If someone threw a firebomb at a mosque, or threatened to blow up a Pride parade, we’d rightly demand action. But when it’s a synagogue, the debate shifts. We’re told not to make it worse. We’re told to be careful not to offend. But silence is not peace. Silence is surrender. And the Jewish community is being forced to accept that silence from the very country they trusted to protect them. Canada must wake up. The government’s job is to protect its citizens. All of them. No matter who they vote for, what they wear, or which God they pray to. And when that duty is ignored, when Jewish children are made to feel unsafe walking to school, that is not a small oversight. That is state failure. If that failure continues knowingly it is state-sponsored terror. We would never say it about ourselves, but we must. Because it's the truth. And let’s be honest: if a Canadian citizen threatened a mosque or LGBTQ event, they’d be in jail by dinner. But foreign students, radical professors, and cowardly administrators get a free pass as long as the hate is pointed at Jews. Why? Because we’re used to it? Because the government is afraid of backlash? That is not leadership. That is complicity. And in the case of Canadian services that continue to protect or excuse this, yes, that is terrorism, too. Canada is not Gaza. Canada is not a war zone. We are a nation of law, of citizenship, of responsibility. If someone commits a hate crime here—Canadian or not they face consequences. If they are a foreigner, they are sent back. And if an institution enables that hate, they should be named, investigated, and stripped of public funding. This isn't a call for chaos. It's a call for equal justice. You do not get to target Jews and call it activism. You do not get to burn down a community and say it's a movement. You do not get to hide behind student visas and taxpayer-funded salaries while helping fuel the oldest hate on Earth. If this country cannot stand up for its Jewish citizens, then we have already failed. The test of a democracy is not how well it treats the majority. It's how fiercely it defends the minority. And right now, Canada is flunking that test. There is still time to turn it around. But only if we stop excusing hate and start calling it what it is. Terror.

WOMANHOOD IS NOT A COSTUME AND I WILL NOT BOW

WOMANHOOD IS NOT A COSTUME AND I WILL NOT BOW By Councillor Lisa Robinson Let me say this as clearly as I can: I know what a woman is. And I will not lie about it. Not for applause. Not for politics. Not for anyone. Because this world has gone mad — Not by accident, but by design. They’re not just erasing definitions. They’re erasing us. They say a man can be a woman — No effort. No sacrifice. No truth. Just a statement… and suddenly, he belongs in our change rooms, our sports, our shelters, our prisons. He can win our medals, steal our scholarships, knock our daughters out cold in the ring — and be called brave. And if we dare speak up? We’re silenced. Fined. Fired. Dragged through the mud by the very institutions that once claimed to protect us. Well, not me. I was not elected to play pretend. I was not elected to obey a delusion. I was elected to lead. And I will lead with truth — even if I’m the last one left saying it. Because womanhood is not a costume. It is not a feeling. It is not a slogan on a rainbow sticker. It is flesh and blood. It is sacrifice. It is sacred. And it is ours. They call it inclusion. But who exactly are we including — and at whose expense? When a teenage girl trains for years, only to be beaten by a man in a skirt — is that inclusion? When a female inmate is locked in a cell with a man who calls himself “she” — is that progress? When girls on rugby fields are knocked breathless by men with every physical advantage — is that compassion? No. It is betrayal. A betrayal of women. A betrayal of truth. A betrayal of every mother, daughter, and sister who fought to be seen, heard, and respected. And here’s what makes it worse: Politicians like me? We don’t have to live with these policies. We don’t share bathrooms with the opposite sex. We don’t lose our scholarships to men. We don’t get our faces bloodied in a cage and called equal. We just vote. Then walk out the back door — untouched by the chaos we create. I will not be that kind of leader. Because I believe in boundaries. I believe in women’s rights. And I believe that lying to protect feelings while destroying reality isn’t kindness — it’s cowardice. So yes — I will say what others won’t. A woman is a woman. An adult female with XX chromosomes A man is a man. With XY Chromosomes And no law, no label, and no amount of lipstick will ever change that. We are not interchangeable. We are not props in someone else’s identity crisis. We are not placeholders for men who want a new costume. We are women. And we are not going away. Let me speak now to the women listening — The ones afraid to speak, scared to be called names, but who know in their bones: this is wrong. You are not crazy. You are not alone. And you are not the problem. You are the front line. The defenders of reality. The torchbearers your grandmothers once were. We are the daughters of iron. The mothers of nations. The keepers of truth. And we do not bow. Not to mob pressure. Not to fake science. Not to cowards in suits who traded courage for comfort. When the history books are written, I want it said: That we stood. That we told the truth. That we would not betray our daughters to win favour with liars. Let them sanction me. Let them slander me. Let them try to silence me. I will still be here — With truth in my spine, Fire in my voice, And every woman before me standing behind my words. This is our moment. This is the line. And we will not step back. Not now. Not ever. Councillor Lisa Robinson The People’s Councillor Strength Does Not Lie In The Absence Of Truth, But In The Courage To Face It Head On And Rise Above It – Lisa Robinson 2023

Losing a Father Is a Bundle of Hurt

Losing a Father Is a Bundle of Hurt By W. Gifford-Jones MD and Diana Gifford I was 6 years old when I first calculated how many years I could expect to have with my father. He was 44 when I was born; and therefore 50 when I turned 6. I decided I would be lucky if I got to 35 and still had him. That would be 79 for him, and I felt that was an old age. Can you imagine how lucky I feel to have had him until 101? I’m grateful beyond words. Now, I am taking up the responsibility of writing the Gifford-Jones column – not as a doctor, but as a communicator. The immediate necessity is to say something helpful, something important, about an experience many of us will have during our lives: losing a father. I investigated the research. No two ways about it, we take a physical and psychological hit. From cellular level aging brought on by the physical impacts of grieving (sustained stress, disrupted sleep, poor diet) to the cognitive effects of loss (depressed mood and outlook, more substance abuse behaviours, anxiety), the death of one’s father is a bundled package of hurt. What would my father say about it? This is a question I will be asking myself every week going forward. I know what he did when I was hurt as a child – the kind of hurt that had me crying, a bad scrape on the knee or the sting of a bee. He’d touch me in the affected spot and let his touch linger. “Now,” he said, after a time, “doesn’t that feel better?” I got his point. Readers will hear echoes of his constant mantra. “Don’t be a wimp. Don’t take pills when there is an effective, natural alternative.” He practiced what he preached. When my father turned 90, I started to prepare for the day he would slow down. But he didn’t. He was launching another phase of his crusades. And what for? To fight big pharma. To demand better pain management and end-of-life care. To advocate for natural health. And most of all, to call on all humanity to improve our increasingly lousy lifestyle. You may recall, he wanted to throw rotten eggs at the Parliament buildings! And he had a few choice words for the newspaper editors who ceased publishing his column. For the past six years, it’s been an extraordinary collaboration writing this column with my father. He told me, “Don’t be a journalist if you are going to sit on the fence.” On some issues, we had some heated discussions! But the interviews we did together, the visits to natural health food stores, and the talks in communities increasingly closer to home, these are the occasions I enjoyed the most. Going forward, I plan a few crusades too. I will have my own opinions, and they may not always line up with his. I have a Harvard degree like my father, but even better, I have one from Wellesley. I’ve worked alongside global health experts at the World Bank and in the most impoverished places you can imagine. I am an advisor to the presidents of universities. I know where to find the research and who to talk to. You can count on me to simplify the complexities, identify what’s important, and cut out any baloney. And yes, the advice will be sharp – because some things, thankfully, are hereditary. For now, like many of you, I am grieving the loss of my father. But I take comfort in knowing how lucky we are to have had him in our lives. Thank you for all your messages, tributes, and personal stories that are pouring in. Sign-up at www.docgiff.com to receive my weekly e-newsletter. For comments, diana@docgiff.com. Follow on Instagram @diana_gifford_jones _________________________________________________________________________ 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

Waterleaks are Costly

Waterleaks are Costly By Maurice Brenner Regional Councillor Ward 1 Pickering As a Regional Councillor I have been receiving an increasing number of calls regarding a higher than normal water bill. While rates have increased in an effort to ensure adequate funds are available to cover the infrastructure required to provide clean water to your home along with the charge for sanitary/waste disposal, I am finding that more and more residents have been impacted by a water leak resulting in a substantial increase on their Water Bill which is why I want to focus on some simple tests you can do before it costs you. Ways to Spot a Water Leak before it costs you! Did you know that water leaks in your home are very common. A majority of leaks are silent, and are hard to spot. These silent leaks can end up causing a higher-than-usual water and sanitary/wastewaterbill. Here are some simple tips to help detect a leak before it costs you and could save the cost of ripping apart your walls and ceilings. Check Your water Meter for consumption: Water consumption is measured by the amount of water that passes through your water meter. Before going to bed, write down the number on your water meter. In most homes the water meter is located in the basement towards the front of your home. Do not run sprinklers, appliances or toilets overnight. When you get up, check the number on your meter. If the number has changed, this indicates water has been running through it which means there is a possibility that you have a water leak somewhere inside or your house. Once you have determined a possible leak, before you call the plumber, check your toilets as well as a visual check for dripping facets. By narrowing it down, you save the cost of the plumber looking for the problem. How to Test for leaks: One of the most likely causes of a high water and wastewater bill is a running toilet. The best way to check for a running toilet is to: i Remove the tank lid from the back of the toilet. ii Put a dye tablet or five drops of food colouring in the toilet tank. You can also use Worcestershire sauce or another dark liquid. iii Close the toilet lid and wait 30 minutes – It is important not to use or flush the toilet during this time. After 30 minutes look at the water in the toilet bowl to determine if the the dyed water has found its way into into the bowel. If the bowl is clear and all that means the toilet likely doesn’t have a leak. iv Repeat this with every toilet in your home. v If you not been able to confirm the source is a running toilet, conduct a visual check of each of your facets, a little drip surprisingly adds up. A hot water drip will also increase your other utility bills Once you have confirmed the source or if unable to find the source call a licensed plumber, but if at all possible avoid the weekends when you will be paying a premium. There is no point in calling Durham Region since they are not responsible for any water leaks inside your home.