From Physical Activity to Smelling the Roses - The Neglected Benefits of Spending Time Outdoors

From Physical Activity to Smelling the Roses - The Neglected Benefits of Spending Time Outdoors By Camryn Bland Youth Columnis The majority of a teenager's day is spent at school, with the remainder being occupied by homework, extracurricular activities, and digital entertainment. However, that schedule lacks one crucial thing; time spent outside. Whether you are passing time at a local park, an outdoor sports event, or simply in your backyard, time spent outdoors is critical for adolescent health, both physically and mentally. Most teenagers are busy, which makes it easy to forget about fresh air and sunshine. The issue is, this forgetfulness causes adolescents to miss out on the countless health benefits of being immersed in nature. Studies show individuals between the ages of twelve to twenty should spend one to two hours outside daily, yet most teens dedicate less than thirty minutes a day to the outdoors. This deficit cannot continue to be normalized; instead, adolescents need to get off their phones and get into nature. So, what are teens really missing out on when they neglect the outdoors? Some of the many physical benefits of spending time outdoors include increased physical activity, improved eyesight, vitamin D, and better sleep. I am not a particularly athletic individual, however, the outdoors always encourage me to engage in physical activity, whether that be by walking, riding my bike, swimming, or participating in a game of basketball. Just by sitting outside, you are improving your health, as natural sunlight is better for your eyes than the blue light of electronics, and sunshine provides your body with vitamin D to strengthen your bones and immune system. Spending time outdoors improves more than physical health; it also benefits mental health, as it connects you to nature, provides a break from stressors, and improves mood. Whenever I find myself overthinking or having a bad day, I walk my dog or ride my bike. This forces me to reflect on and review the natural beauty aroundme, which significantly increases my mood. When I look around and analyze what I am going through, I ask myself, is this really relevant in the grand scheme of everything around me? The answer is usually no, and that’s freeing. When you’re stuck indoors,you feel confined to personal issues, which feels both overwhelming and hopeless. Time outside removes you from an anxious headspace and into a new one of gratitude and contentment. After outdoor reflection, I often realize my problem was not as serious as I originally thought, or that a solution was available the whole time. Time spent outside can also be a large inspiration and creative influence in our lives. From writing to painting to photography, nature has always been a muse for those who create, whether they be professional or amateur. So, appreciate the grace; let yourself observe. Observe the sounds, images, and smells which you come across, and be inspired. Listen to the birds sing, look at the flowers, and smell the roses. Use that inspiration in everyday life, in whatever way it applies to you. Time outside will fuel your creativity and imagination in ways you would not originally expect, you just have to let it. Being immersed in the outdoors is one of the most productive and meaningful uses of time, regardless of the activity you are engaged in outdoors. The parks, gardens, and forests which surround us are all sources of health, reflection, recreation, and inspiration, we just have to take the time to use them as such. So, next time you find yourself bored or unproductive, take a break from your routine and connect with nature. Through this, you will find an abundance of benefits which will change your life for the better.

Faith on the Chopping Block? Ottawa Eyes End to Religious Charities

Faith on the Chopping Block? Ottawa Eyes End to Religious Charities By Dale Jodoin A government finance committee has recommended removing the charitable status of religious organizations in Canada, a move critics warn could cripple churches, silence faith groups, and harm millions of Canadians who rely on them. In December 2024, the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance, which included Liberal, NDP, and Bloc MPs, recommended eliminating “advancement of religion” as a valid reason to qualify for charitable status. If passed, religious groups would lose their tax-exempt status unless they prove their work falls under other categories like poverty relief or education. The committee also recommended removing charitable status from groups that oppose abortion. Together, these suggestions sparked outrage from faith leaders, community advocates, and concerned citizens across the country. Charitable status allows organizations to operate tax-free and issue receipts for donations essential for funding day-to-day operations. Churches, mosques, temples, and synagogues rely on this status to survive and serve. Without it, smaller congregations and faith-based charities could collapse. Donations would shrink. Programs would vanish. Support for the vulnerable would dry up. Religious groups aren’t just preaching, they're feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, comforting the sick, and supporting families in crisis. And according to studies, every $1 given to a faith-based charity creates $3 in community value. Take that away, and the people who suffer most won’t be clergy; they'll be the poor, the elderly, and struggling families. Here’s what makes the recommendation more shocking: it doesn’t target a fringe group. It goes after most of the country. According to Canada’s 2021 Census, 67.3% of Canadians over 25 million people identify with a religion. 53.3% are Christian, 4.9% Muslim, 2.3% Hindu, 2.1% Sikh, 1.0% Buddhist, 0.9% Jewish, and 2.8% follow other religions, including Indigenous spirituality. This is not about one group. This is about the majority of Canadians, their beliefs, their traditions, and their right to practice freely. Some see this as more than a financial move. They see it as an early sign of state control over belief systems. Mary, a woman from Ontario, didn’t mince words: “This is very scary. This is how communism starts. First, they silence the churches. Then they go after everyone else.” Historically, communist regimes like the Soviet Union, China, and Cuba began by attacking religion. Faith gives people identity, purpose, and hope for things the state can’t control. That’s why it becomes a target. And now, in Canada, many are asking: Is this the first step toward silencing dissenting voices? The Conservative Party of Canada was the only political group to formally oppose the recommendation. In their dissenting report, they warned that this move would “threaten thousands of organizations and violate religious freedom.” But for now, the idea is still on the table. It hasn’t been passed into law but it’s been floated. Quietly. That’s how these things start. If the recommendation becomes law, churches and temples will lose charitable status, donations will drop, smaller congregations will shut down, and faith-run shelters, food banks, and programs for seniors, kids, and the sick may close. Families who depend on these services will be left without support. And it won’t just hit Christians. Muslims, Sikhs, Hindus, Jews, and others will all be affected. Why is this happening? Is it about controlling speech? About cutting funding to voices who don’t agree with government policy? Some say it’s about removing traditional values and replacing them with state-approved thinking. Others think it’s simply a way to cut costs regardless of who gets hurt. Whatever the motive, the outcome is clear: this is a direct attack on freedom of religion in Canada. If the advancement of religion no longer counts as a public good, what’s next? Silencing sermons? Censoring prayer? This isn’t about inclusion. It’s about the exclusion of the very people who built and continue to serve Canadian communities. This is still just a recommendation, not yet law. But the time to act is now before it gets buried in a federal budget or quietly passed without debate. Here’s how to make your voice heard: contact your MP by phone, letter, or email and say clearly, “Do not remove charitable status from religious organizations.” Talk to your local faith leaders and ask them how your place of worship is responding. Share this article so others know. Speak out in your community. This could be one of the most serious threats to faith in Canadian history. The government isn’t just going after beliefs, it's going after the very system that allows religious groups to help others. If you think this doesn’t affect you, think again. When shelters close, food runs out, or services disappear, everyone feels it. This is more than tax policy. It’s a line in the sand. If we stay quiet now, we may wake up tomorrow in a country where faith is no longer free, and the government decides who gets to serve. If you found this article important, contact this newspaper and let them know. Ask for more reporting on issues that protect faith, freedom, and the everyday Canadians who hold this country together. Your voice matters. Use it.

5 Traits the 'Best Candidates' Display

5 Traits the 'Best Candidates' Display By Nick Kossovan Today's job market is a seductive dance, where talent is getting lost in the fog of red tape and endless applications. (I'm a fan of Norman Mailer's prose.) The 2025 job market is a dumpster fire; therefore, I've been receiving more emails asking for job search advice, which most often can be summarized as: 1. Don't look for a job; look for your tribe. 2. Stop trying so hard; approach your job search strategically. Job search norms from the past are long gone; nonetheless, many job seekers conduct their job search as if it's 2005, which is why they're experiencing a prolonged job search. The key to expediting your job search is accepting that an employer, as the business owner, establishes its hiring process and operates its business as it sees fit. The best candidates don't resist how an employer chooses to hire; they accept that this is beyond their control. Regarding the current job market, hiring continues, though on a smaller scale. The candidates who stand out as the best are those who demonstrate the five traits that employers deem attractive. 1. Comfortable and Authentic When conducting interviews, I most relate to candidates who come across as relaxed and authentic. Many job seekers try to put on a "performance," rehearsing their responses and striving for perfection in every aspect. In contrast, relaxed candidates demonstrate that they have the one non-negotiable personality trait I look for: confidence. I relate more to candidates who are confident and unafraid to admit their past mistakes and weaknesses they're trying to overcome. "To be human is to be beautifully flawed" - Eric Wilson. Authenticity connects with people; your interviewer is "people." The best candidates don't give scripted answers; they naturally follow the interviewer's lead, easing "interview tension" and building a genuine connection that makes them memorable. Although it may seem counterintuitive, keep in mind that I only speak for myself, sharing self-disqualifying information fosters trust and openness. This leads to the question I often get from readers: Do I hire candidates who are brutally honest and self-deprecating? Answer: Yes I've hired numerous candidates who've admitted to making mistakes, some were significant. I'm drawn to candidates who are confident enough to be brutally honest with me. When candidates discuss their mistakes, I find them more credible than candidates who focus solely on their successes. A candidate who talks about their achievements but can't acknowledge their mistakes is someone I hesitate to hire. Worth noting: Based on interview confessions, the most common mistakes are: · Not proofreading an email before sending, and · Not asking for clarification about an assignment. Never assume! 2. Not Overly Eager, but Interested Candidates who seem too eager are likely to be seen as insincere, desperate, and salesy, which are major turn-offs. Conversely, showing no interest can come across as aloofness, which is just as off-putting. The best candidates seek to learn more. They ask thoughtful and challenging questions that demonstrate their curiosity and engagement. Their nuanced interest sets them apart. They're exploring options and weighing their choices. (Even in this job market, if you're skilled and visible, you'll have employment opportunities.) Employers prefer not to hire candidates motivated only by a paycheck. 3. Positive and Good Frame of Mind Interviews aren't therapy sessions. However, surprisingly, as if they didn't know better, many candidates vent their frustrations about past employers or experiences during interviews or online (e.g., LinkedIn). I don't know any hiring manager who hires candidates with a negative attitude. The best candidates display a positive attitude and focus on what they can bring to the employer, which makes them desirable hires. 4. Researched and Prepared A well-prepared candidate is impressive. With all the available resources job seekers have at their disposal, no excuse for walking into an interview without thorough knowledge of the company, its culture, and their interviewer(s). (Google and LinkedIn are your friends.) The best candidates have comprehensive knowledge about the company and the position they've applied for, and therefore, pre-interview, have a sense of whether it's a company they want to join—a mindset that significantly impacts their interview performance. 5. Desire to Make an Impact This is the big one! Because I don't hire candidates who are "me" focused, I've lost track of how many interviewees have asked me questions about their wants (compensation, benefits, time off, opportunities for advancement). While it's understandable to have some focus on earning money and progressing your career, solely highlighting your "wants" makes you a candidate who won't be focused on what's most important to an employer: their self-interest. "Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country" - John F. Kennedy's inaugural address (January 20, 1961) The best candidates lead with a desire to make an impact on the employer's business. They understand that, foremost, an employee's role is to deliver measurable results aligned with their employer's goals. Therefore, they communicate how they plan to contribute and provide examples of how they've achieved this for past employers. A job seeker who explains how they'll add value is much further ahead than those with an "I need a job!" mindset. ___________________________________________________________________________ Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned corporate veteran, offers “unsweetened” job search advice. Send Nick your job search questions to artoffindingwork@gmail.com.

THE FIFTH OF MY SUMMER SERIES COLUMNS * A CONVERSATION WITH DOUG SANDERS *

LABOUR UNION OFFICIAL and former Oshawa councillor Doug Sanders agreed to share his thoughts with me on his 42 years of community involvement, so I asked him a few key questions. In the spring of 1990, Doug Sanders was the match that would ultimately light a fire of protest amongst unionized workers at the General Motors Oshawa car assembly plant. Three decades later, the man at the very centre of that controversy agreed to look back on his lifetime of advocacy. Dean: What happened at General Motors in 1990, and did they really nickname you the “Ten Million Dollar Man“? Doug: That nickname was given to me because of the apparent value in lost production. I identified an issue on our assembly line that had rendered our workplace temporarily unsafe. I asked a supervisor to stop what he was doing, which started a chain of events that began with my being placed on immediate notice of suspension. I did receive the support of many on-floor union reps who themselves decided to walk off the job in protest of the way I’d been treated. Subsequently, and without union representation, a number of people refused to work, thus idling about 3800 workers that very afternoon. The CAW disagreed with the actions taken by our local union committee and labelled the situation as an ‘illegal work stoppage’. From there everything escalated, resulting in 5000 workers eventually being sent home. The whole thing played out over three days, but a certain amount of animosity remains on the part of some who were involved. Dean: How did the events of that time affect your outlook, and your ability to move forward? Doug: My outlook and what it means to do a job I’ve been entrusted with has never changed. After the walkout ended in 1990, there were about a dozen employees that were handed 30-day suspensions, so I and others stood on the sidewalk just outside the plant gates to collect money to help those folks. Was it tough for me to get back on track? Sure, it was, and there were times I felt like I had a target painted on my back, but the overall trust and respect I gained definitely helped me move forward. Dean: In 2010 you made the decision to run for Oshawa council in a city-wide election, and in a field of 18 candidates running for three local seats, you came in 5th in terms of the number of votes received. You lost that election, yet you ended up serving as a member of council during that term. You went on to win a local seat in the 2014 election, yet you ended that term as a Regional councilor. Even the most casual observer would find those circumstances rather unusual, even rare. Doug: The 2010 election was not unlike any other, and I look at the results as very positive. A lot of folks in the community will recall when Mike Nicholson declined to be sworn in as a councillor, which was totally unexpected. He had to basically resign from council because his employer, the Toronto Transit Commission, had a policy forbidding their employees from taking political office. A by-election would have cost Oshawa taxpayers upwards of $150,000 so council decided to appoint a runner-up, enabling me and others to make a direct appeal, and in the end, I was chosen to fill the seat vacated by Mike. Coming on board when I did wasn’t at all easy, but I can tell you in all honesty that councillor Nancy Diamond was very helpful, and I benefitted greatly from her advice. I put my name forward again as a candidate in the 2014 election, and out of a total of 17 hopefuls, I was at the top of the list, having received the most votes in a city-wide election. Fast forward to February 2017 and Nancy’s sudden death, which left a vacancy to be filled at Regional council, and I was given the privilege of being chosen by my colleagues to take on a new role as her successor. Dean: Can you give me a brief summary of your experience as a councillor, and perhaps offer a glimpse into the highs and lows of Oshawa politics? Doug: I very much enjoyed my time on the Development Services committee, because it provided an opportunity to help steer the city into the future as new proposals came forward, however, I was disappointed when the downtown Oshawa BIA came to be the focus of so much controversy and was ultimately disbanded by a majority vote of council. On a positive note, it was nice to see the rejuvenation of the Genosha Hotel building after so many decades, as well as other forms of private investment that have created a real turnaround for the centre of our city. I have been quoted in the media as saying councillors had a very positive relationship and that council as a whole was very cooperative. This is absolutely true, however there was a time during my first term when it was a challenge to come into the chamber for a meeting. The news media labelled Oshawa city hall as a “political circus” with fights, threats, intimidation, and even harassment being added into the mix. I recall 2013 as a particularly bad year, and week after week I watched as more chaos developed. Council, at that time, was seen as being among the most fractured in the province. Dean: What does the future look like for Doug Sanders? Doug: At the moment I’m concentrating on my work as Vice President for the Unifor Local 222 Retirees Chapter and enjoying time with my wife and family - and in particular my six grandkids. I really enjoy my time golfing and watching my favourite sports – all the while maintaining season’s tickets for the Oshawa Generals. As long as there is a need in the community, I’m there to serve in whatever way I can. As I always say, I’m only a phone call away. ……………………… As part of Doug Sanders work at Local 222, he will be hosting a public forum on September 11 from 6-8 pm at the union hall at 1425 Phillip Murray Ave. The event is titled ‘Slam the Breaks on Tariffs’ and will include a lineup of speakers from various levels of government. Those in attendance will enjoy an appearance by Charlie Angus, the well-known Canadian author, journalist and former federal politician.

Nexus, Gender, and the Return to Reality

Nexus, Gender, and the Return to Reality By Councillor Lisa Robinson On August 6, 2025, Canada quietly announced that non-binary gender markers will no longer be accepted on Nexus card applications. If you don’t choose “male” or “female,” you won’t get a card. And if you already have a Nexus card showing something other than those two options, it will remain valid only until it expires. Why the sudden change? Because the United States — under a Trump executive order — now requires all federal identification to reflect one of only two sexes: Male or Female. Not feelings. Not identities. Biological reality. And since Nexus is a joint U.S.–Canada program, Ottawa had no choice but to align with Washington’s policy. For years, we’ve been told that gender is a spectrum, that biological sex doesn’t matter, and that acknowledging two sexes is somehow hateful. But now, at the border, ideology collides with law — and reality wins. This is not about hate. It’s not about erasing anyone’s lived experience. It’s about the limits of fiction in the face of law, security, and international agreements. Trusted traveler programs, passports, and visas must be grounded in something verifiable, consistent, and legally recognized. That means: Male or Female. Some will call this exclusionary. But we can care about people while still telling the truth. We can show dignity and compassion without rewriting the foundations of biology. And this isn’t a new conversation for me. When I was elected in Pickering, I stood up for the rights of boys and girls to access changerooms based on biological sex — not self-declared identity. For that, I was sanctioned and lost two months’ pay, and am still facing an ongoing battle. The message from the establishment is very clear: stand up for common sense, and you will be punished. When reality is bent too far, it eventually snaps back. First Nexus. Then passports. Soon, perhaps sports, prisons, shelters, and hospitals will have to face the same reckoning. This isn’t hatred. It’s clarity. Canada tried to erase sex. The nited States just said: “No more.” Whether we like it or not, the world runs on truth — not trends. And maybe this isn’t the end of inclusion, but the beginning of a return to common sense. Because there are only two sexes. And deep down… we all know it. XX “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

D-BIKES!!!

D-BIKES!!! B.A. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States The reports keep pouring in on the many accidents caused do to E-Bikes on our roadway. Before, I continue. For the anal readers. The title is correct. “D-Bikes.” In my eyes. These contraptions are Death wishes on wheels. Many of our municipal elect are quick to allow these death wishes on our road as they fall for all the hype and the photo opportunity, making it look like they are actually doing something. The reality. Our sons and daughter pay with death and injury. I agree in part that these E-bikes may be useful at tourist destinations or on remote trails as to give access quickly to visitors. Unfortunately, in a city like Oshawa. There is barely room for traditional bicycles. We now are going to ad to the formula a bicycle powered by a battery that can go 40km/hr. Not only that. We are going to put this contraption in the hands of our youth. Youth that have barely learned to ride a normal bike. Or worst as the police reposts have indicated. Some of these riders are seniors. So on the one hand we take away licenses at 85 for most. Then we turn around and out of desperation encourage these same individuals to take up E-biking. Now I am no expert and far from a genius. But to me. It is a matter of time before we loose more lives. Oshawa/Durham has no place for E-bikes as they become “D-bikes”. Riders need no licenses. Barely a helmet in some cases. The region is not bicycle friendly. This has been proven time and time again through the many accidents reported. Look at what is taking place in Toronto. Toronto moved quick to create bike lanes. Only to come to the realization that on main roads there is no room or place for bikes. We may look at all foreign models to try to justify that bikes are the way to go only to wake up to the reality that in our type of traffic. E-bikes = D-bikes. So what is the solution? Simple. Have these e-bike riders get a license. Same with the e-scooters. This would put a quick stop...as the e-scooter operators would have limited clients using their service. E-bikers would be pulled over and removed from the road as most would not be able to afford licensing and plates. (Remember that e-bike users are normally those less fortunate that have no means of transportation). Look at the police reports. Let’s prevent injury and death. We are not a tourist destination. We are a City, a Region. Let’s put our people safety first.

Canadian Universities and the changing world

Canadian Universities and the changing world by Maj (ret’d) CORNELIU, CHISU, CD, PMSC FEC, CET, P.Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East We face dramatic changes and challenges in the world today, which make higher education, especially in technical fields i crucial to the development of nations. Countries, which realize the importance of a quality higher education and capitalize on it, will progress while others are left behind. This realization and pursuit will be an important factor in assuring a better quality of live and better economic wellbeing for their citizens. At this point, Canada is not paying attention to concentrating on excelling in higher education in technical field, nor on creating proper financial and living conditions for foreign students. This environment has created a lack of interest in Canadian Universities among foreign students, in sharp contrast to the trend in previous decades. This is a clear first indication that Canadian Universities have a problem, one that has to be resolved in a timely manner to avoid creating further, more dangerous problems that will affect the general wellbeing of Canadian society. Canada's higher education institutions are facing significant challenges as the international student market, a critical revenue stream for many universities, suffers a series of setbacks. A financial fallout and no-show epidemic is hitting Canadian universities as many international students consider other options. International students, who contribute billions to Canada's economy, have become an essential pillar of the country's post-secondary education sector. However, a combination of lowering teaching standards, bureaucratic hurdles, inflationary pressures, and shifting immigration policies is leading to alarming drops in enrollment and a record number of no-shows. Apart from it being revenue-generating to Canadian universities, international students bring a wide array of benefits to Canadian society, our economy, and our educational system in general. Their presence is a cornerstone of Canada’s global reputation as a hub for quality education and multiculturalism. It also helps address skill gaps in Canada’s workforce, contributing to the country’s economic growth and innovation. International students, who have traditionally accounted for a substantial portion of tuition revenue, are now proving to be a double-edged sword for Canadian universities. According to a report from University Affairs, the fallout from a decline in international student arrivals is hitting university budgets hard, especially at institutions that rely heavily on these students' tuition fees to balance their finances. Canadian universities have seen rising costs and have been forced to rethink their financial strategies in the face of declining numbers of international students. These students contribute nearly $6.9 billion to Canada's economy annually, with many institutions receiving a large share of their tuition revenue from this demographic. The financial loss is particularly significant for universities with large international student populations, which rely on these funds to maintain and expand operations. However, beyond the numbers, the problem is also reflective of a larger issue in Canada's immigration and education systems. A CBC News article sheds light on some of the reasons why students are either deferring their studies or abandoning their plans to study in Canada altogether. Increased inflation and the cost of living have made it much more difficult for international students to afford their education in Canada, while stricter visa processes and delays in immigration approvals have caused uncertainty for many students. These factors have led to a phenomenon where students are simply not showing up for classes as expected. The situation has been compounded by an alarming number of no-shows, which were recently reported by The PIE News. In just two months, nearly 50,000 international students across Canada have failed to arrive at their respective institutions, leaving schools scrambling to adjust. This issue is not just a small blip in the system; it signals a worrying trend for universities that rely on international enrollments for both revenue and diversity. For many students, the decision to study abroad is a complex one that involves considerable time, financial investment, and effort. As inflation has risen globally, many students have been unable to afford their original plans to study in Canada, while some may have opted for more affordable or less restrictive options in other countries. Compounding these economic concerns are delays and complications in Canada’s immigration and visa processes. The complexity and uncertainty surrounding visa approvals have left many international students in limbo, preventing them from securing necessary documentation in time for their studies. The Canadian government's focus on international students has been largely positive over the past few years, with initiatives aimed at attracting global talent to bolster the country’s economy. However, there have been some notable shifts in immigration policies that are beginning to raise concerns among prospective international students. One significant challenge is the increased scrutiny of study permits, which has led to delays in visa processing times. A CBC article highlights how these delays have made it increasingly difficult for students to arrive in Canada on time, resulting in a situation where many students are forced to defer their plans or cancel them altogether. In addition, the financial burden on international students has been exacerbated by the rise in tuition fees and living costs. While Canadian universities have long been considered an attractive destination for international education due to their quality and relatively affordable tuition rates compared to other international destinations, these advantages have been undermined recently. In the coming months, Canadian institutions will need to adapt quickly to the changing landscape of international education. If they fail to respond effectively to these challenges, the impact on their finances, academic diversity, and global reputation could be profound. However, with thoughtful policy adjustments and increased support for international students, Canada’s universities have the potential to not only recover but also thrive in an increasingly competitive international education market.

Going Natural for Male Vitality

Going Natural for Male Vitality By Diana Gifford Mark Twain said, "Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter." But for many aging men, it matters a lot when their prized male organ starts to lose the vitality of youth. One of the most common yet often unspoken challenges is the decline in testosterone levels, a natural part of aging that can significantly impact physical and emotional well-being. Starting as early as the mid-30s, testosterone levels in men begin to decrease by approximately 1 percent per year. This gradual decline can lead to symptoms like fatigue, reduced muscle mass, irritability, and perhaps most distressing for many, a diminished libido. Not everyone aspires to be Don Juan. But for many, having sufficient upbeat libido is what drives life’s most intimate joys. Plus, having positive and healthy intimate connections can be an indication of broader good health. How many readers know that erectile dysfunction (ED), for instance, is often a precursor to cardiovascular problems? The healthy performance of the male organ can be an indication of the healthy performance of the heart. And when the former declines in prowess, one may surmise the heart is also losing vitality. But here’s the rub. Many men have trouble discussing their sexual health – with their partners and their doctors, both. The personal relationship with their partners suffers needlessly as a result. Those who do act make two common mistakes. The first is to leap immediately to pharmaceutical solutions that come with potential side effects. The second is to scour the Internet for promising products, nearly all of which are dubious. Searching the Internet causes another problem – the invitation for algorithms to send more and more trashy content that will certainly embarrass when popping up on the screen as someone else is watching! There’s a Gifford-Jones law that says, “Try natural remedies first.” Fortunately, there are some products available at natural health food and supplements stores that are tested and proven solutions to reignite men’s testosterone production and renew sexual interest. One example is Testo Charge, produced by Certified Naturals, a firm that specializes in clinically studied ingredients, uses no artificial additives, and packages capsules in the dosage scientists have tested in trials. Testo Charge is made using patented LJ100 tongkat ali, an extract derived from a Southeast Asian plant having a long tradition as a natural aphrodisiac and vitality booster. Studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in boosting testosterone levels, improving sexual performance, and enhancing mood and energy. There’s something to be said for another natural approach to macho manhood. Don’t forget that a little romance can a powerful aphrodisiac. Build a menu of loving options, each one of which is priceless – a kiss, a caress, a lasting cuddle. There need not always be a main course when the appetizers are filling enough. It’s perfectly natural for intimate relationships to evolve as the years go by. What’s often underestimated is the importance of talking about how personal abilities change. Yet being the one to open up such discussions is often very, very hard. Years ago, we told readers that bananas go well with hanky-panky. That’s because bananas are loaded with potassium, a nutrient that lowers blood pressure. Bananas also contain magnesium and calcium, nutrients that can help to ease strained muscles. We recommended putting a banana on the bedside table as a fun way to signal romantic intentions to a partner. Since laughter is such good medicine too, why not write to us with your stories of the amorous effects of your own bedside banana? We’ll print the best ones in a future column. _________________________________________________________________________ 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

HELLO

HELLO By Wayne and Tamara I am not sure why I am writing, but I have to know why this is so hard for me to forget. A week ago a man I worked with two years ago called and told me he still thinks about me all the time. He knew I was married and so he never did anything about it. He would give hints, but I thought he was being nice. I have been married to a wonderful man for 13 years. We both have never cheated, and he has dealt with my spending habits. We have two children. The other man has a girlfriend now, and after speaking to him Saturday night, I have not spoken to him again. I know I am not happy and do not think I can stay with my husband. I love him but am not in love with him and haven’t been for a long time. I think this heartfelt admission from another helped me see this, though I am not sure why he would call after all this time, and then not call or email again. Pattie Pattie, you’ve been carrying around an unloaded rifle, and now someone has put a live round in the chamber. The question you ask is, should I pull the trigger? One phone call is basically nothing, yet one phone call from one man on one night, and you are ready to leave your husband. Who knows what triggered the call. Your former coworker may have been drunk or lonely or feeling amorous. You praise your husband for dealing with your spending habits, and that may be the red flag. Have you reached the end of the line with using money to buy moments of happiness? You say you don’t love your husband anymore, but we are wondering if you ever loved him. Actual love builds and builds. There is only one thing to do. Look in your heart and figure out how you went from accepting a marriage proposal to being willing to abandon a marriage after a single phone call. Wayne Innocent Bystanders My wife and I are good friends with a couple whom we often accompany to blues festivals and other music venues. The last two times we have been out my buddy’s wife has spent at least an hour or two in the company of two other men she met at these events. She just disappears. My buddy has made several comments about her “blues boyfriends” and seems not happy about the situation. My wife and I definitely felt uncomfortable both times. In all other regards they seem to be perfectly happy together and enjoy a good relationship. My question is this. Does this sound like normal behavior? Even if the behavior is innocent on her part, most of the guys I know who hang around other women are usually interested in one thing. And why the heck do I care enough to write you about this? Vern Vern, a few years ago Wayne was driving on a highway when a man in a new pickup truck passed him. He was a nice looking older man, and Wayne got a good look at him. When the pickup was well ahead of him, Wayne noticed a tractor trailer approaching the highway from a side road. The tractor trailer suddenly lurched forward to beat the traffic. In an instant Wayne foresaw what would happen, but he was powerless to stop it. White and blue smoke poured from tires and brakes as the pickup slammed under the larger truck and exploded. Some men and women can just be friends, but this feels like the last few seconds before an accident. There are elements in the lives of others which make it impossible for us to befriend them. Seeing shock on the faces of bystanders may help this couple face the conflagration they are trying to ignore. Tamara

8 Stoicism Principles for Job Search Success

8 Stoicism Principles for Job Search Success By Nick Kossovan Stoicism is an ancient school of Hellenistic philosophy that teaches us to focus on virtue, reason, and living in harmony with our circumstances. It encourages us to concentrate on what's within our control—our thoughts and actions—while accepting what we can't change, such as being ghosted. Applying Stoic principles to your job search will give you the mental resilience needed to navigate today's fiercely competitive job market and improve your chances of hearing "You're hired!" sooner. 1. Focus on What You Can Control By focusing on what you can control and influence, you're taking the reins of your job search. You can't control the job market, the number of applicants, or the whims of hiring managers. As Seneca said, "We suffer more in imagination than in reality." Your energy goes where you focus, so focus on what you can control: · Your resume · Your LinkedIn profile and activity · Your networking efforts · Your digital footprint · Your interview preparation Whenever you apply for a job and don't hear back, don't dwell on it. More importantly, don't post on LinkedIn a rant about employers not knowing how to hire. Anti-employer posts are public displays that potential employers will read, showing that you can't control your emotions. 2. Accept What You Cannot Rejection is an unavoidable part of job searching. Accept that many factors influencing a hiring decision are beyond your control, such as how an employer structures their hiring process, rude behaviour, interviewers who are indifferent, and that there's always someone younger, more skilled, and hungrier than you. Then there's the "I'm a victim of [whatever]!" narrative job seekers often use, which hopefully you aren't participating in. Accepting what you can't control isn't a sign of weakness, but a wise choice that frees up crucial mental space to focus on your job search. Not getting the job, being ghosted, not receiving feedback, and other job search irritations aren't gross injustices as many would have you believe. 3. View Adversity as an Opportunity for Growth When it comes to job searching, you must overcome—either positively or negatively, the choice is yours—the many 'you can't win them all' challenges you'll inevitably have to deal with. Instead of expressing your frustrations publicly, damaging your job search, think of these setbacks as learning opportunities. Ask yourself, "What could I have done better?" Perhaps, when networking, you should try offering value first (TIP: When you meet someone for the first time, ask yourself, "How can I help this person?") or focus on quantifying your achievements on your resume and LinkedIn profile. Viewing adversity as a growth opportunity is key to keeping your job search moving forward. 4. Live Virtuously A virtuous job search approach fosters the crucial element for hiring a specific candidate: trust. Desperation has led many job seekers to exaggerate and lie on their resumes, hence making honesty and integrity a competitive advantage, which is a sad commentary on our times. As the number of 'bad actors' populating the job market rises, being transparent about your experience and skills sets you apart, since candidates who are transparent are becoming increasingly rare. 5. Practice Gratitude Your mindset is essential for making your job search more effective and sustainable, rather than scattered and hopeless. It's easy to be overwhelmed by negativity, especially from other frustrated job seekers. Practicing gratitude shifts your focus to the positive aspects of your job search journey, and establishing the faith that, ultimately, you'll find yourself in a better place, as I've experienced several times. A daily practice that'll keep you motivated and resilient is maintaining a gratitude journal. Every morning, write down what you're thankful for, whether it's supportive family and friends, the recruiter who accepted your LinkedIn connection invite, a new skill you've learned, being healthy, having tomatoes in your garden, or any of the countless other reasons to be grateful for being alive and having another day to experience life. 6. Embrace the Present Moment You can't control the past (what happened) or the future (what will happen). While planning is important, obsessing over what's next distracts you from the present, which is within your control. Embracing the moment means fully engaging with your current tasks, whether it's networking, applying for jobs, or preparing for an interview. Focus entirely on the task at hand and trust that the results will follow. 7. Cultivate Wisdom Cultivating wisdom involves the ability to discern what's truly important in life, which, as a former chaser of the almighty dollar, I can tell you isn't money. Practically every job seeker I speak with talks about getting paid what they're worth, hence they're chasing their "supposed" worth, which is highly subjective and entirely at the employer's discretion. From experience, chasing happiness is much easier and more rewarding than chasing after your "supposed" worth. 8. Treat Others with Kindness In a world that often feels self-centred, showing kindness sets you apart. Never mimic the bad behaviour of others and childishly justify your behaviour with "Well, if they can act this way, why can't I?" The Golden Rule—treating others as you want to be treated—applies throughout your job search and in all areas of life. _____________________________________________________ Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned corporate veteran, offers “unsweetened” job search advice. Send Nick your job search questions to artoffindingwork@gmail.com.

THE FOURTH OF MY SUMMER SERIES COLUMNS * A CONVERSATION WITH COUNCILLOR JOHN GRAY *

I MET JOHN GRAY FOR THE FIRST TIME well over 30 years ago. We began our conversation with his reminding me of that which I already knew “I’m very much a hands-on person, and I refuse to give my name to anything unless I’ve played a major role in making it happen.” That sentiment illustrates much of what his friends and colleagues have come to know and expect from a man they have called Alderman, Mayor and Councillor during his many years as an advocate for the community. A classic car buff, John took pride in telling me of his many hours spent working on mechanical and cosmetic restorations. Unlike most enthusiasts, John enjoys his time in an air conditioned garage that used to be an indoor swimming pool at the back of his house. He said he simply couldn’t wait to fill it in and create a one-of-a-kind space where he can tinker with his cars, although his family had to be persuaded first – which wasn’t an easy task. John was born in Scarborough in 1959, and at the age of five his family moved to Whitby where he began what would become his formative years, eventually moving to Oshawa as a young man at the age of 23. He received a diploma in Accounting and Financial Management from Centennial College in Scarborough, and as it happens, we shared a few memories as fellow alumni of the Progress campus. He went on to enjoy an interesting career teaching accounting software techniques, as well as establishing on-line database tools for a publishing company located in Toronto. John looks back at his first run for elected office with an ounce of humility. “I ran for council in 1991 and lost in a big way, and that experience taught me a great deal as I learned the value of face-to-face contact with voters, and I have made it my mission since then to knock on every door.” He said his life in local politics has been governed by what he describes as a simple but sound philosophy, “I will do whatever it takes to leave this city a better place than I found it.” He attempted to do just that with a considerable amount of infrastructure and ‘legacy’ developments, such as the Legends Centre (now the Delpark Homes Centre) on Harmony Road, and the General Motors Centre (now known as the Tribute Communities Centre) in downtown Oshawa. As always, politics is a tough game, and John did earn a reputation as a free-spending mayor – one who was not afraid to add considerable debt to the City at that time. Ultimately, he would pay the price for that, having been voted out of the Mayor’s office in 2010. Of course, none of his achievements came easily, or without certain struggles. John recollects chairing a number of very difficult public meetings, but in the end, he feels he was able to maintain a united council. He laughed while thinking back to the opening night concert performed by Tom Jones at the brand new General Motors Centre – as it just happened to coincide with his 2006 election win. As with anyone in political life, there were many ups and downs in John’s career. Since 1994 he has served as a City and a Regional councillor, and was Mayor of Oshawa between 2003 and 2010. He was elected back onto City Council in 2018 where he continues to serve. John looks back on his first electoral success in 1994 with fond memories “It was a moment of sheer elation” he told me. “There were times when I had to force myself to go out and knock on doors, and I came to the realization that my greatest successes were those I achieved during difficult times – when I would meet some of my most ardent supporters who made such a difference to my campaign.” John’s early experience watching Oshawa council mirrors my own, however he took the unusual step of attending City Hall in person as much as he could. He recalled what we both see as the “good old days” with men like Jim Potticary, Ed Kolodzie, John DeHart and Jack Wiley in front of the Rogers Cable10 cameras. In point of fact, John remembers his friend and mentor, Gerry Emm, a long time Whitby politician, as being a major influence in his decision to eventually run for office. “When my dad received his first regional water bill in the early 1970’s he was livid, and the first person he called to complain about it was Gerry, and my dad ended up becoming one of Gerry’s biggest supporters. Others whom John saw as friends include Des Newman, Bob Attersley, and Jim Gartshore, big men in their time and effective community leaders, all of whom offered as much advice as one could expect. The years that would mark John’s time in office were driven, as he says, by a desire to do his best for the city’s downtown, and he told me he remains quite pleased with his accomplishments, although he was forced to pay a personal price. “There were many sleepless nights where I would work in my garage for hours on end following some very contentious meetings.” he said. “But in the end my colleagues and I were able to remain as a unified council, and our success in building a legacy for this city stands on its own.” John also spoke of the working relationship he had with the likes of Terry Kelly, who would at one point telephone him, expressing his personal gratitude for John’s efforts in establishing the General Motors Centre. Fast forward to the year that is 2025 and the many challenges we face in our society and our communities. I asked John to offer his assessment as to the future of Oshawa, and he immediately raised two concerns, telling me “Our goal must be to further enhance residential development in our downtown, and to somehow deal with the issue of what has become the ‘homelessness crisis’ facing our region and our country.” He further suggests “Successful communities are those that stand above, through innovation and new ideas.” John feels his work in helping to create a better community is not yet finished. He is currently the City Councillor for Ward 5.

OXYMORONIC!!!

OXYMORONIC!!! B.A. Psychology Editor/Publisher Central Newspapers ACCOMPLISHED WRITER/AUTHOR OF OVER 800,000 Published Columns in Canada and The United States City of Oshawa may think it is drinking from the fountain of youth when it comes to their pereception of the City. In reality we all can see through it and realize that the toilet they are attempting to have the rest of us drink from is far from the fountain of youth. Just look at the crap they post on their own City web page, as to give themselves some sort of journalistic creditability. The hypocrites that claim they support local small businesses when they far from support any local business unless they are one of the chosen brownosers in their inner circle. Look at the state of the core. Yes, they support local small businesses... Keep drinking the Cool-Aid, Mr. Mayor. Does he know where the core is? On the City own web page they post: For the latest City news and factual information Subscribe to City News & Alerts and follow us on - LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, (Twitter) X. This is the same City that likes to think they are inclusive,diverse and equitable? What a joke. Instead of supporting a local business that has been serving for over 30 years. They rather have taxpayers go to a public toilet for censored releases by the City. This is type of posting lacks any journalistic integrity. It lacks the essence of reporting as it is far from arms length and heavily censored by the municipality. This is not news. To boot they post these ‘factual information’ on social media posts. The ultimate modern day information public toilet forums. At least on a public toilet they make it clear. Male/Female. On social media posts they call the ability to defecate a whole array of catching names like FB and the many others. What disgrace that they city is so cold to force tax payers to buy computers, to pay for internet services to read their censored information passed as ‘factual’. What a disgrace. As not to confuse anyone with the title: "Oxymoronic" describes something that contains or uses an oxymoron, which is a figure of speech that combines contradictory terms. Essentially, it's when two words with opposite meanings are used together to create a new meaning or highlight a point. (factual/information) (censored by the city, not arms length). In this case we can leave the OXY out and the City own admittance of factual is far from factual but censored and bias. They do not hold the expertise or experience to deem their censored material as news. Leaving them looking like a bunch of morons. This is why our taxes keep going up. Our businesses empty out and our street turned into drug addict heaven. Shame on you City of Oshawa for the deception. SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES

The Revival of the National Defence

The Revival of the National Defence by Maj (ret’d) CORNELIU, CHISU, CD, PMSC FEC, CET, P.Eng. Former Member of Parliament Pickering-Scarborough East The Government of Canada is moving towards to strengthening Canada’s National Defence. Ignored for decades by successive Liberal and Conservative governments, a positive decision has been made by the ruling Liberal Government. Whether prompted by international pressures or the necessity to protect our borders, Prime Minister Mark Carney has made a move to bolster our national defence. . However, the goal of hitting NATO's defence spending target of two per cent of gross domestic product this year will be an uphill battle. The Prime Minister has explicitly stated that part of the goal is to build up the Canadian defence industry, while acknowledging that continuing to do business with allies, including the United States, will remain necessary. An extra $8.7 billion is earmarked for defence spending by the Department of National Defence (DND) or other government departments, and $370 million for the Communications Security Establishment (CSE). Allies have been pushing Canada to meet NATO's goal for nearly 20 years — but actually doing so has become imperative with Donald Trump in the White House. The Prime Minister’s words and commitment are right, but he has got to crack the whip in short order. It will be necessary to bring about a complete and rapid change in the mentality and competence of National Defence procurement personnel. Government procurement officials will need to reverse a long-standing culture of risk aversion, deferring decisions and allowing billions of dollars in lapsed spending. During my career in the military engineers, I witnessed numerous examples of indecision and waste perpetrated by both civilian and military personnel who were responsible for infrastructure and procurement both domestically and internationally. During my tenure as an MP serving on the National Defence Committee I was appalled by indecisions regarding National Defence issues. For example, the contract for procurement of the F35s was left in limbo when the Government was able to make the decision to procure them. This indecision later cost Canadian taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars, when after 10 years, the Trudeau Liberal government, rather than Harper’s Conservatives signed the contract. It is also interesting to find my former colleague on the defence committee, James Bezan, who is now the Conservative defence critic, declaring that it will be difficult for procurement officials in government to change their well-entrenched bureaucratic mentalities. Why didn’t our Conservative government at the time do anything to bring a change of this harmful mentality if it is so clear to him now? Our Conservative Government tolerated managing the procurement for the war in Afghanistan from Koblenz Germany for a long time, which I experienced first hand when deployed. It was faulty and cost taxpayers millions for wrong military hardware delivered and contracts with questionable and costly trading companies. I will refrain from talking about the waste incurred in the peace-keeping mission in Bosnia Herzegovina during my deployment there. Therefore, for Prime Minister Carney’s Government to be successful and timely it needs to move quickly for a complete overhaul of the Department of National Defence (DND), Public Service and Procurement Canada (PSPC). In situations that are truly time sensitive, the government can invoke a National Security Exception (NSE), Urgent Operational Requirements (UORs) or issue an Advance Contract Award Notice (ACAN). Although these have strict eligibility criteria and are not everyday tools. Though Prime Minister Carney outlined the general areas for increased investment on June 9, he gave no specifics. The list included better compensation; health care and infrastructure for personnel; new equipment such as aircraft, armed vehicles and ammunition; expanding the Canadian Coast Guard and moving it under DND; repairing and maintaining existing ships, aircraft and other assets; and developing new drones and sensors to monitor the sea floor and the Arctic. Now these plans he outlined must be put into practice quickly, particularly the spending that needs to be done at home. One way to spend faster would be to expand existing orders for armoured vehicles, ships and planes. For example, augmenting an existing contract for 360 light armoured vehicles from General Dynamics Land Systems in London, Ont. A company spokesperson says it would be able to quickly respond to contract amendment requests. However, if the government intends to buy equipment not already on order or in the inventory, DND and PSPC have to change their approach quickly. The protracted procurement process must be streamlined, and it would be advisable to spend a good portion of that $9 billion on Canadian firms. It is also commendable that Canada and Europe have been drawn a little closer together as a result of Prime Minister Mark Carney signing a strategic defence and security partnership with the European Union. The agreement opens the door for Canadian companies to participate in the $1.25-trillion ReArm Europe program, which is seen as a step toward making Canada less reliant on — and less vulnerable to — the whims of the United States. Eventually, it will also help the Canadian government to partner with other allied nations to buy military equipment under what's known as the SAFE program. In conclusion, I definitively see positive signs that the Government of Canada is seriously looking to protect Canada. Let us hope that these plans will soon materialize, and they do so without major setbacks.

The Real Risk Isn’t What You Think

The Real Risk Isn’t What You Think By Diana Gifford I have a strong belief in personal responsibility. From an early age, I was taught that my own daily decisions will determine my future. You will know, for example, where I heard that sugar is the “white devil”. It’s a conviction helps me avoid it. For another, if I don’t use my muscles as I age, I know I will lose them. But there’s a set of problems we’re not talking about. In fact, in our personal hopes and efforts for good health, we are often obsessed with fear about the wrong risks. We focus on cholesterol but ignore loneliness. We cut carbs but don’t move our bodies. We chase step counts, yet deny ourselves sleep, nature, purpose, or joy. If my father championed common sense, I want to build on his message with something just as important: whole-life prevention of ills – with ills very broadly defined. That means looking beyond pills, blood pressure, and protein intake. It means stepping back from the microscope and seeing the full human picture. And increasingly, large-scale studies are proving the factors that most powerfully protect our health and wellbeing are often the ones we’re least likely to track on a fitness app – or even in most doctors appointments. Take the Harvard Study of Adult Development, an ongoing project that began in 1938. It’s one of the longest studies of adult life ever conducted. Its key finding? The most consistent predictor of long, healthy lives isn’t diet, wealth, or even exercise—it’s the quality of relationships, also called “social fitness”. Close social ties were more protective than any single medical metric. Loneliness, on the other hand, has been shown to have health effects comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. In recent years, there have been dozens of studies that explore the impact of multidimensional lifestyle interventions – in other words, these studies test the effects of health care programs that blend physical activity, social connection, nutrition, stress reduction, and other treatments. The findings consistently show superiority over single-focus strategies for managing diabetes and reducing cardiovascular events, stroke, and depression, just to name a few. Illness is not always a precision fix. You may be better off tending to broader dimensions of your life. It’s worth knowing about the FINGER trial from Finland too. It’s one of the first major randomized controlled trials to show that a blend of modest lifestyle changes (better diet, light exercise, cognitive engagement, and social activity) could slow decline in older adults, even among those at higher risk of dementia. It’s research like this that is sparking a healthy wave of organizations addressing social isolation. GenWell, found at genwell.ca, is one example. This is the new frontier in prevention: living in a way that protects your health because it supports your humanity. This isn’t about rejecting advances toward more technical, lab-driven medical breakthroughs. I have huge respect for medicines that cure or manage diseases and for surgeons and their scalpels. I’m proud of what science can do. But too many of us have outsourced health to lab results, forgetting that daily habits, environments, and emotional lives matter as much – sometimes more – than our biomarkers. Let’s shift the lens. Let’s talk about what really keeps us well. Not fear, not fads, not guilt, but meaningful, joyful, intentional choices, sustained over time. What does this mean you do? You can start by making an old-fashioned phone call to a friend, a neighbour, or a family member you haven’t connected with for a while. Make a date to get together, go for a walk, cook a meal, and do it with the music turned on. _________________________________________________________________________ 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

WARRING NATURES

WARRING NATURES By Wayne and Tamara I recently moved in with a man I love deeply. We’ve been together almost two years, and the only problem we haven’t worked out is the amount of affection I want. I have a higher sex drive than him, and I think that may be part of it. Whenever he is around, I want to throw my arms around him and give him kisses. While he has never outright denied the affection I want to give him, I can tell sometimes it may be too much for him. I find myself lying awake nights wishing he would put his arms around me without me having to initiate it, or hoping he would want to spend more time alone with me cuddling. Sophie Sophie, Timothy Treadwell, the subject of the movie “Grizzly Man,” lived among brown bears for 13 summers. Treadwell believed he loved brown bears and sometimes even crooned “I love you” as he approached a grizzly. In the end, the bears loved him back; they loved him to death. He and his girlfriend were eaten by bears. Timothy Treadwell’s life illustrates the nth degree of wanting what we cannot have. Treadwell thought because he loved bears, bears should love him. You think because you want cuddling, your boyfriend should want to cuddle. You and Treadwell act as if there is no will on the other side. What about the bears? What about your boyfriend? What if it is not their nature? The amount of physical affection a person desires depends on many things, including the nurturing they received or failed to receive in the opening years of life. It is a pattern etched into the brain. You can berate, torture, or soothe your boyfriend into sometimes giving you what you want, but that is not his natural state. You seek a way to get what you desire because you won’t acknowledge what he is like. Acknowledging what he is like implies change on your part, and perhaps, ending the relationship. If you stay with your boyfriend, either you will be sick of pushing him, or he will be sick of your demands. When a fox and a hare try to share the same den, they are in for a lifelong battle. Wayne & Tamara Bound To Fail My fiancée and I have a difficult relationship. I entered the relationship with lingering feelings for my previous girlfriend. It came down to ultimatum time, and I told the woman who is now my fiancée to move on. We carried on as before except for physical intimacy. She started dating another but told me, “He’s just a friend.” I believed her. As the prospect of losing her for good became real, I panicked. I opened up to her in ways I never had. I proposed and she said yes. We began planning the wedding, but under pressure from me she started dropping bombs about being sexually intimate with him. Can I trust her? Gregg Gregg, tit for tat, measure for measure, a taste of one’s own medicine. Is that what this is about? You pushed her away after being intimate with her. You wanted another woman who didn’t want you, and you let her know it. She dated someone else and lied. Why? Because she hoped you would come around. She didn’t want to be left with no one, if you continued to shove her away. When you decided she was better than nothing, you proposed. Part of wanting her was someone else wanting her. Now you’ve interrogated the truth out of her—so you can shove her away again. You don’t want to be with her, and you don’t want the insecurity of trying to find another. If this engagement goes to marriage, one day you will be standing at the altar, while your friends in the pews take bets on how long the marriage will last. Wayne & Tamara

Nature, Nurture, and Neuroplasticity -The Key to Understanding What Influences the Person You Are Today

Nature, Nurture, and Neuroplasticity -The Key to Understanding What Influences the Person You Are Today By Camryn Bland Youth Columnist Every morning, you wake up, brush your teeth, and get ready for the day. Then, you head out the door, and live your daily life as you choose. But the question is, what made you choose that life? Why did students choose the courses they did, and what impacts an adult's career choice? Why did an individual choose to eat that for lunch today, and what inspired their outfit? Every detail of your life is related to the unique per son that you are, but what influenced that personality? Many people frame these philosophical questions as nature versus nurture. The big question has always been, are we born who we are, or do we become ourselves due to the world around us? Science has proved both to influence our identity; genes and physical traits play a large role in human behavior, but so does childhood, education, and socioeconomic status. When it comes to these two components, I have always found myself more interested in nurture, how our everyday choices affect our identities. I believe that although our DNA and inherited traits influence us, our complex nurture ultimately decides who we are and what we do. I am a teenager who loves to write, read, bake, debate, and act. I have strong morals, I spend most of my time studying, and I tend to overthink everything. When I analyze my identity, I realize I may not be the same person I am now if just one small thing about my past was different. If my mom didn’t encourage me to read when I was younger, I may not be the bookworm I am today. If I didn’t transfer schools in the seventh grade, I may not be interested in theatre, as I wouldn’t have known about the arts school I now attend. If I didn’t force myself to attend debate tryouts, I wouldn’t have developed the research and critical thinking skills which I gained from hours of tournament preparation. I am the person I’ve become due to my experiences, and I know my identity will continue to develop as I experience more of what the world has to offer. Our nurture is not just one isolated influence, it is made of many components which each affect us in different ways. These factors include, but are not limited to, our friends, pastimes, socioeconomic status, and cultural expectations. Childhood and early family life both have a large impact on your characteristics and personality. If an individual is exposed to violence as a child, they may develop a tendency to physically lash out at others when angry, they may become passive in an attempt to cover their negative emotions, or they may turn to friends and romantic partners with similar abusive habits. If parents are too controlling of their child, then they may not develop independence, however if they are too permissive, children may not understand boundaries or follow rules. Small, seemingly insignificant details from our childhood or adolescence may seem inconsequential, however, they may influence us for the rest of our life in ways we do not realize. Childhood and adolescence are not the only times when our identities are influenced; our everyday actions have a large impact on our character, regardless of our age. The human brain has neural pathways it is accustomed to using, which are formed by our daily routines. When we begin to practice new routines and habits, the brain creates new pathways. This is known as neuroplasticity, which is formally defined as, “the ability of the brain to form and reorganize synaptic connections, especially in response to learning or experience.” Scientists have proven that with time, we are always able to grow, learn, and adapt, regardless of past conventions. Every time we think, feel, or do something, the communication between our nerve cells are stimulated; the more we do that thing, the stronger the nerve connections, and the easier the activity becomes. As individuals, we are always changing, even if we don’t realize it. If we act consciously, we are able to do anything we put our minds to, regardless of how challenging it may seem at first. Neuroplasticity can be seen in our everyday lives, especially in relation to the media. We are constantly consuming information from news companies, social media books, movies, and even musical artists. The average person spends over two hours a day consuming media; therefore, the perspectives of the media we consume are ones we are constantly practicing, which causes the brain to adopt that thinking style. For example, if we are constantly exposed to media discussing the disasters of our society, we are constantly going to feel anxious and upset. However, if we watch media which is uplifting, inspirational, and enjoyable, we will more often feel confident and hopeful. Being mindful of our media consumption is a necessary step in understanding what influences our attitude and behavior, and it may be the solution to changing habits from ineffective to productive. As individuals, our identities are constantly being influenced by many components, such as our daily experiences and the media you consume. Your past and present affect you in ways you may not realize, from intelligence to your favorite color. For hundreds of years, philosophers have been debating whether we are made of our nature or nurture, but they’ve been asking the wrong questions. We now understand we are products of both, but we’ve also realized each component is far more complex than we thought. Nurture isn’t just our early childhood, it’s made of everything in our daily lives, from the moment you are born to the day you die. The key to understanding yourself comes from analyzing every experience, everything you consume, and everything you practice. Only through this reflection can you begin to truly understand what makes you, you.

Employers Are Not Responsible for Your Chosen Lifestyle

Employers Are Not Responsible for Your Chosen Lifestyle By Nick Kossovan Recently, I came across the above picture of a man during the Great Depression wearing a sandwich board advertising that he was looking for work. Aside from the number of people who'll see it, his sandwich board doesn't differ much from the 'I'm now available' posts I see on LinkedIn. The picture made me think, '90 years ago, job seekers made the same mistake as they do today, saying what they want instead of explaining what they can do. Did he expect employers to stop and ask him what the three languages and trades he speaks and knows are? Did he think broadcasting that he'd fought for three years and has three children would motivate employers to hire him? Today, job seekers have the Internet and social media, especially LinkedIn, to broadcast (advertise) that they're looking for work—no need to wear a sandwich board—and are making the same mistake that the man in the picture made. Like me, you probably see the many 'Open to Work' posts on LinkedIn from newly minted job seekers sharing what they want—remote work, a six-figure salary, unlimited PTO, benefits to start immediately—when they should be touting their skills and sharing quantifiable achievements that demonstrate the value they can bring to an employer, such as: · Willing to work on-site. (Don't underestimate how attractive this is to employers.) · Speak English, French, and Spanish fluently. · Certifications (e.g., Project Management Professional (PMP), AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker) · Managed a portfolio of projects valued at $47 million, ensuring a minimum ROI increase of 25%. · PMO head with over 15 years' experience managing portfolios ranging from $50 to $100 million and leading global IT teams of up to 100. · Over the course of 12 years, I sold 513 Corvettes in Las Vegas. (A candidate actually told me this, and I ended up hiring him. Within three months, as part of an inside sales team of 39, he was leading in POS sales.) · In 2018, I secured over $85 million in mortgage loans for clients. · I'm the person behind the EcoBrew "Sip Sustainably" campaign. · Answered between 60 and 80 calls daily. Since 2022, I have consistently maintained a client satisfaction rate of 95% or higher. · Delivered over 30 keynote speeches at national banking conferences and industry events, engaging audiences of up to 1,500 people. I believe most people are willing to help job seekers if they can, which is good news since companies are comprised of people. Therefore, right now, there are job opportunities all around you attached to people (employees), illustrating the importance of networking. The caveat is that you need to make it easy for people to help you, starting by giving them more context than "I'm looking for a job." Do you think someone, especially someone in a position to hire you, takes unsubstantiated opinion statements like "I'm a team player," or "I'm detail-oriented" seriously? Is using statements such as "I have rent and bills to pay" or "I'm running out of savings" an attempt to guilt employers into hiring you? When posting an 'Open to Work' announcement, include the essential information—context, clarity—that hiring managers, recruiters, directors, executives, and an employee needs to evaluate whether you can add value to their company. To further reduce friction and boost your chances of receiving help, follow my one rule—a goal to aim for—for writing bullet points for a resume, LinkedIn profile, or an "Open to Work" announcement: Write each bullet point so that the reader thinks, "I must meet this person!" At the risk of sounding overly blunt, each of us freely created our respective lifestyles or bought into marketing propaganda that influenced us to create it. Employers didn't create your lifestyle, so why would you expect employers to be responsible for it? Your worth to an employer isn't determined by your lifestyle or the cost of living. Your worth, from an employer's perspective, is solely based on the value they believe you can bring to their business. Therefore, the more specific value you can demonstrate—and provide evidence of, such as "Grew TikTok followers from 0 to 10,000 in four months with creative video content," [link to video added]—rather than just saying "Managed social media"—the more likely your 'Open to Work' post will generate engagements that could lead to your next job. An employer-employee relationship, as anyone who has been in the corporate trenches should know, is a business relationship, not a personal one. Thereby, not an employer's concern: · The lifestyle you choose to live. · The cost of living going up. · Your career. If you want your "I'm looking for a job" broadcasting efforts to pay off, then start hyper-focusing on showcasing your value to employers. The more you demonstrate your value add, whether when posting your 'Open to Work,' throughout your resume, LinkedIn profile, while networking and interviewing, the shorter your job search will be. Job searching isn't about making employers guess what you can offer; it's about communicating your value without expecting employers to be responsible for your lifestyle. _____________________________________________________ Nick Kossovan, a well-seasoned corporate veteran, offers “unsweetened” job search advice. Send Nick your job search questions to artoffindingwork@gmail.com.

*** 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