If you have been one of the past contributors to my publications, 
newsletter and 
website, thank you very much.
I ask if you would consider making a new contribution for this year, just $5 would be great to help defray my publishing expenses.
Contributions can be made by eTransfer to Richard Szpin at zippyonego@gmail.com
Thank you very much.
We’re working on these stories…
Something stinks in the nomination process for the Pickering-Uxbridge riding. Numerous candidates have been disqualified by the riding association without explanation, seemingly without cause. This was the same occurence a year ago when a young candidate was rejected again without cause or explanation. It seems like the riding is being run by a cohort of insiders who are its power brokers, not a very democratic process. To add insult to injury, all candidates must sign an NDA which gags them from ever talking about the nomination shenanigans that are going on in the riding.
__________________
Opah! Athens, Patras, Lamia, Kalamata and Corinth…maybe we couldn’t get there easily but AMICA PICKERING brought here!
Thursday, April 3rd, was Greek Day at AMICA PICKERING. Music from the Ionian islands, iconic Greek foods, accompanied by Amica’s bar specials.
The food was spectacular, light fare, yummy but not heavy, from spanakopita, dolmades to Greek fries and flamed-seered cheese. Deeelicious!!! Kudos to house Chef Camilo Torres for presenting everyone with a menu that was not just flavourful but very much Greek in authenticity. The music never stopped for two hours, so the more than a hundred residents and their invited guests had an afternoon of getting away Greek style and first class!
Amica Pickering has these kinds of celebrations, Greek Fest, Caribbean Get Away, New Orleans Holidays…every couple of months and it invites people of Pickering to come and celebrate with the participating residents.
Always a great time!
____________________
The Liberal Party’s statement
The Liberal party has made significant investments in infrastructure. affordable housing and healthcare to support families and ensure no one is left behind in Pickering-Brooklin. However, global economic uncertainty and trade wars now threaten our jobs, businesses, and cost of living. With Mark Carney’s proven expertise, we can navigate these challenges, build a resilient economy, deliver a middle-class tax cut, and protect the prosperity and values that define our community.
About Juanita Nathan
Raised in Durham Region and the Liberal candidate for Pickering-Brooklin, Juanita Nathan brings decades of public service at the local level. She currently serves as Markham’s Ward 7 Councillor and formerly held three terms as a Public School Board Trustee in the municipal region. She was a previous Chair of Canada’s third largest school board, YRDSB, breaking new ground in educational leadership.
Alicia Vianga, is a patriotic Canadian, along with her husband and family.
She’s a small business owner and the Founder and Executive Director of After Breast Cancer, a Canada-wide charitable organization dedicated to helping women thrive during and after breast cancer.
From its inception to today, After Breast Cancer is about embracing people and providing real hope and support to the community with invaluable resources and solutions to a problem that touched her heart.
As an entrepreneur and community advocate, Alicia understands the needs of everyday people and businesses looking to their government for leadership, support, and access to quality and reliable services. She is action-oriented, and responds to the problems and needs of her community. For example, she helped start the CML Village BIA to make a difference, improve her community, and create a stronger relationship between the people and the business sector.
Alicia has spent her whole life solving problems. She rises to the occasion when she sees people in need.
She is running to be your next Conservative Member of Parliament because she sees a deep need in Pickering-Brooklin today. Whether it is on affordability, housing, mounting debt, or community safety and crime, Canada is ready for a change. Alicia will bring home the Canada we remember and love.
Is lemon water good for kidneys?
You’ve probably heard people say that lemon water is great for detoxing and cleansing the body.
Some even claim it can prevent kidney stones and boost kidney function.
But is lemon water actually good for your kidneys, or is it just another health trend?
Let’s get straight to the answer.
Is Lemon Water Good for Your Kidneys?
Yes, for most people, lemon water can be beneficial for kidney health.
The citric acid in lemons helps prevent kidney stones, and proper hydration supports overall kidney function.
However, there are exceptions—if you have advanced kidney disease or issues with high potassium levels, drinking too much lemon water may not be ideal.
Now, let’s break it down further.
How Lemon Water Benefits Kidney Health
Lemon water is not a miracle cure, but it does have science-backed benefits when it comes to kidney health. Here’s how:
Kidney stones form when minerals like calcium and oxalate build up in the kidneys.
Lemons contain citric acid, which binds with calcium, preventing stones from forming.
It also increases urine volume, which helps flush out small stones before they grow.
Fact: Studies have shown that people who regularly drink lemon water have a lower risk of developing kidney stones compared to those who don’t.
Your kidneys filter waste and toxins from your blood, but they need enough water to do this effectively.
Lemon water encourages you to drink more fluids, keeping your kidneys working efficiently.
Key tip: Dehydration is one of the biggest causes of kidney stones. If your urine is dark yellow, you’re not drinking enough water!
Lemon water acts as a mild diuretic, which means it can slightly increase urine production, helping your kidneys flush out waste more efficiently.
Although lemons are acidic, they have an alkalizing effect in the body once metabolized.
A more alkaline urine environment may help prevent kidney stones from forming.
REMEMBER:
“Different people may have different needs and results when it comes to health. so before making a decision such as this dont forget to consult your doctor, he know you best, as different people may get different results”
When Lemon Water Might Be Bad for Kidneys
While lemon water is generally beneficial, there are a few cases where it might not be the best choice:
People with kidney disease often need to watch their potassium intake.
While lemons aren’t extremely high in potassium, they still contain some.
If your kidneys are not functioning properly, potassium can build up in your blood, leading to serious complications.
Anything in excess can be harmful—including lemon water. Here’s why:
Lemon water can trigger heartburn or worsen acid reflux for some people. If you experience discomfort, it’s best to cut back.
How to Drink Lemon Water for Kidney Health
Drinking lemon water the right way ensures you get the benefits without any downsides. Here’s how:
My Research Aids:
National Kidney Foundation – The Role of Citrate in Preventing Kidney Stones
National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Effects of Citric Acid on Urinary Health
Harvard Medical School – Dietary Impact on Kidney Function
Final Verdict: Should You Drink Lemon Water for Your Kidneys?
For most people, lemon water is a great way to support kidney health.
It helps prevent kidney stones, keeps you hydrated, and may aid in waste removal.
However, if you have kidney disease or struggle with acid reflux, talk to your doctor before making it a daily habit.
Moderation is key—a glass or two a day can be beneficial, but too much can have side effects.
Your kidneys work hard every day to keep you healthy.
Give them the support they need by staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and making smart choices—like drinking lemon water the right way.
SPEED DIAL 2
I am all over the map, internet wise, when I research. I want to remember some places, so I can revisit them. Enter extension SPEED DIAL 2, an extension or applet that allows me to save all my visited websites and retain them in customized groups with a thumbnail image to help me recall the site.
Then if I ever want to go back to that site, I open SPEED DIAL 2, click on the thumbnail and poof, the site is opened in a new tab in my browser. Poof, like magic.
An absolutely wonderful tool everyone should have in the computer tool kit.
A CLOCKWORK ORANGE
Anthony Burgess
Synopsis
Anthony Burgess’s A Clockwork Orange is a dystopian novel set in a futuristic England plagued by youth violence and societal decay. The story follows Alex, a 15-year-old gang leader who narrates his life in a distinctive slang called Nadsat. He and his “droogs”—Dim, Georgie, and Pete—engage in drug-fueled acts of brutality, including robbery, assault, and rape. Alex’s passion for classical music, particularly Beethoven, contrasts sharply with his violent tendencies.
The gang’s dynamics shift when Alex asserts dominance over Dim and Georgie, leading to resentment. During a botched robbery of an elderly woman’s home, Alex kills her in a struggle. Dim betrays Alex by striking him, leaving him to be arrested. Sentenced to 14 years in prison, Alex initially struggles but manipulates the chaplain by feigning religious devotion. After killing a fellow inmate during an altercation, Alex volunteers for the Ludovico Technique, an experimental rehabilitation program designed to condition him against violence. The treatment renders Alex physically ill at the thought of aggression or sex but also robs him of his love for Beethoven.
Released back into society as “cured,” Alex faces rejection and betrayal. His parents have rented out his room, leaving him homeless. He is attacked by vagrants he once assaulted and brutalized by Dim and Georgie, now police officers. Seeking refuge, Alex stumbles upon the home of F. Alexander, a writer he had previously victimized. Initially sympathetic to Alex’s plight, F. Alexander discovers his identity and seeks revenge. He locks Alex in a room and subjects him to loud classical music, driving Alex to attempt suicide by jumping out of a window.
Alex survives the fall and awakens in a hospital where doctors undo the Ludovico Technique. His violent impulses return, but he begins to tire of his destructive lifestyle. A chance encounter with Pete—now reformed and married—leads Alex to reflect on his future. He imagines starting a family and contemplates leaving behind his violent past.
The novel explores themes of free will, morality, and state control. Burgess critiques authoritarianism through the Ludovico Technique’s forced moral reform, arguing that true goodness must stem from choice rather than coercion. A Clockwork Orange raises profound questions about individual autonomy, redemption, and the cyclical nature of human behavior.
Richard says
Stanley Kubrick made the movie and it was explosive in its screenings. People found it extreme, beyond acceptability, far too violent and criticized it that way but like a roadside accident with it inevitable rubber neckers, Kubrick’s film has had a lasting impact. To this day people recognize the title, know of its impact and often claim abhorrence to such extremely violent cinematography.
The book, on the other hand, permits one to manage the exposure to violence, pause it, stop it by putting the book down. But for those who want to continue, Anthony Burgess’ book is a challenge. It is a challenge to reader’s moral compasses, ethical values and ideal principles.
The story is challenging on two levels, as literature and as societal acceptability.
The reading is very difficult as Burgess uses unique language which he created for the book. The vocabulary is unique and so far removed from known English that at times it is incomprehensibe. Some examples…
“The Durango 95 purred away real horrorshow.”
“horrorshow” is used to mean “cool” or “well,” derived from the Russian word khorosho
“Come and get one in the yarbles! If you have any yarbles, you eunuch jelly thou.”
“Yarbles” refers to testicles, while “eunuch jelly thou” insults someone as cowardly or gutless
“Naughty, naughty, naughty! You filthy old soomka!”
“soomka,” derived from the Russian word сумка (bag), is slang for an old woman
“And then we slooshied a horrorshow symphony with lights dimmed down and the violins like strings in the old moloko.”
“Slooshied” means “listened,” and “moloko” refers to milk, often spiked with drugs in the novel’s context
“We gave him the old britva treatment and left him bleeding on the floor.”
“britva,” meaning razor, signifies the violent edge of Alex’s world.
So the reading is difficult, even as one learns the language, it is always disconcerting and requires constant effort to make sense of it.
On another level
A Clockwork Orange was written in 1961 and it is Burgess’ lamentation of society’s erosion into violence, crime and gangs. The medical process that conditions the book’s protagonist, Alex, into a behaviour controlled person is a serious challenge to what is acceptable in society. Alex loses his freedom of choice, freedom of action when he is conditioned to react negatively when faced with violence, crime or an unconcented sexual act. He becomes violently ill and is totally incapacitated in action.
Is doing this to a human being acceptable? Does the end justify the means? He has no choice. When faced with a socially unacceptable incident he is conditioned to become so violently ill that he cannot function. His loses his freedom, his freedom of choice. He no longer a free human being but is a conditioned automaton of the state. The good is he no longer can act violently or commit an unacceptable act. Society is protected; he is enslaved.
A Clockwork Orange has tremendous relevance to our society today. Crime and violence is on the rise, people condemn its continual increase demanding more police control, greater vigilance, longer penal detentions, parole modification so the convicted criminals are not released prematurely or too easily. Our society is edging closer and closer to the control imposed on criminals as in Burgess’ book.
The book is a difficult read. A sensitive reader may feel constantly manipulated into evaluating their own society today.
Stock markets fluctuate because prices depend on how many people want to buy or sell shares. Imagine a toy that everyone suddenly wants—its price rises. If no one wants it anymore, the price drops. When leaders like former President Trump announce policies like reciprocal tariffs (taxes on imported goods), it creates waves in the market. Here’s why:
Supply and Demand: More buyers than sellers? Prices rise. More sellers? Prices fall.
Company Profits: If a company earns more money, investors buy its stock, lifting the price. Bad profits? Prices drop.
Higher Costs: Tariffs make it pricier for companies like Apple or Nike to import parts or products. This can hurt profits, leading investors to sell shares.
Investor Uncertainty: Surprise tariffs (like Trump’s 10% baseline rate) scare investors. They worry about slower economic growth or trade wars, causing panic selling.
Global Reaction: When U.S. tariffs rise, other countries often retaliate. For example, China might tax American goods, hurting U.S. companies that sell there. This fear caused global markets like Japan and Europe to drop too.
Market Plunge: After Trump announced tariffs, the Dow fell 1,400 points in a day. Retailers like Five Below and Dollar Tree dropped ~10% because they rely on cheap imports.
Tech Stocks Hit: Companies like Nvidia and Tesla fell 3–4% as tariffs raised costs and worried investors about future sales.
Short-Term Panic: Traders might sell quickly to avoid losses, worsening price drops.
Long-Term Hope: Some investors hold stocks, betting tariffs will ease or companies will adapt. For example, Goldman Sachs expects eventual rebounds from tax cuts or rate reductions.
Consumer Spending: If people stop buying, companies earn less, hurting stock prices.
Federal Reserve: Interest rate changes (to control inflation) can make borrowing costlier, slowing business growth.
In short, Trump’s tariffs act like a sudden storm—scaring investors, raising costs, and shaking global trade. But markets also bounce back as companies adapt and new policies unfold and change.
US CUSTOMS RIGHT TO SEARCH
United States Customs and Border Protection agents have long had the authority to demand travelers provide access to their electronic devices, but what they’re looking for seems to have changed under the Donald Trump administration.
A French scientist on his way to a conference in Houston was recently turned away over alleged “hateful” messages found on his cellphone.
“U.S. Customs Border Protection, CBP, has the authority to search the devices of anybody travelling across the border, including U.S. citizens – and definitely Canadians,” said Cindy Switzer, a Vancouver-based immigration lawyer practicing on both sides of the border.
In an interview with CTV News, Switzer said, in her experience, border guards generally used that power in the past to look for evidence of crimes such as drug trafficking and possession of child pornography.
But some recent examples show guards may be denying entry to foreign nationals based on political leanings discovered in their social media and messaging apps that do not align with the Trump administration and its policies.
“This measure was taken by the U.S. authorities because the researcher’s phone contained exchanges with colleagues and friends in which he expressed his political opinion on the policies of the Trump administration on research,” French Higher Education Minister Philippe Baptiste told AFP shortly after the incident involving the French scientist.
According to Switzer, CBP agents have wide latitude when deciding whether to allow someone into the United States.
“The issue is that border officers have full discretion in order to grant somebody admission, and they can deny somebody admission for any reason,” she said.
Mike Agerbo, a digital living expert and host of the Get Connected podcast, told CTV News people concerned about protecting their privacy while crossing the border should consider using a different phone than they normally carry.
Agerbo said that’s a good option for people who have an old cellphone lying around – provided they remember to factory reset it before using it and don’t load social media, mail and messaging apps onto it.
For those without a second phone to fall back on, he suggests doing a thorough examination of their devices and deleting anything that isn’t absolutely necessary.
“Just make sure that whatever you have on your device – whether it’s a laptop or a phone – is just basically bare bones,” Agerbo said. “And, if you are deleting things, make sure that they’re securely deleted and go into the deleted folder or the trash and make sure they’re deleted there as well.”
Agerbo recommends travelers check privacy settings on social media accounts to make sure they are comfortable with any publicly visible posts which border guards might be able to find through a simple Google search.
Lastly, travelers should know they are subject to detention and, or incarceration at the discretion of the US Customs authority.
Stopping Scammers from Selling Your Home |
||
|
|
||
|
|
To avoid being a title fraud victim, read on for some tips.
Title fraud is more likely to happen when a property is vacant or paid off, or the owner is vulnerable in some way, such as being elderly or compromised. By making proactive choices you can protect what is, for many people, their largest financial investment. |
Many Americans accept Donald Trump’s statements, even when they are demonstrably false, due to a combination of psychological, social, and political factors. These dynamics help explain why his supporters remain loyal despite evidence of misinformation.
Repetition and the Illusory Truth Effect
Repeated exposure to false claims increases belief in their validity, a phenomenon known as the “illusory truth effect.” Trump’s frequent repetition of falsehoods, amplified by right-leaning media outlets like Fox News and social media platforms, reinforces these beliefs among his supporters.
Confirmation Bias
People tend to seek information that aligns with their pre-existing beliefs while dismissing contradictory evidence. Trump supporters often rely on conservative media that reinforces their worldview, making them more resistant to opposing facts.
Social Identity and Group Loyalty
Many Trump supporters view their political affiliation as a core part of their identity. Supporting Trump becomes intertwined with group loyalty, making it difficult for them to reject his statements without feeling like they are betraying their community or themselves.
Cognitive Dissonance
To avoid the discomfort of holding contradictory beliefs (e.g., supporting Trump while acknowledging he lies), many supporters dismiss evidence of falsehoods. This helps them maintain internal consistency and avoid emotional conflict.
Moral Justification
Some supporters perceive Trump’s lies as serving a “higher moral purpose,” such as advancing policies they believe in or protecting their values. This rationalization makes them more tolerant of his dishonesty.
Distrust in Traditional Institutions
Trump has effectively cultivated distrust in mainstream media and government institutions, labeling them as biased or corrupt (“fake news”). This skepticism leads his supporters to discount fact-checking efforts and accept his version of events as more credible.
Fear and Anxiety
Trump has leveraged fear—about immigration, crime, or economic decline—to create a sense of urgency and dependency among his base. Fear often drives people to seek simple, reassuring answers, even if those answers are not factually accurate.
Charismatic Leadership
Trump’s persona as a strong, anti-establishment leader resonates with many Americans who feel disillusioned with traditional politics. His rhetoric gives the impression that he is “telling it like it is,” which strengthens emotional attachment despite factual inaccuracies.
Pragmatic Acceptance of Lies
Some supporters may recognize that Trump lies but see it as a necessary tactic to achieve political goals they agree with. In this view, the ends justify the means.
Echo Chambers
Social media algorithms and partisan news outlets create echo chambers where alternative viewpoints are minimized. Within these environments, misinformation is reinforced without challenge, making it easier for people to accept falsehoods as truth.
These factors highlight how misinformation can thrive in polarized environments where identity, fear, and distrust play significant roles. They also underscore the challenges of combating false narratives when they align with deeply held beliefs or serve political purposes.
SCAMS, SCAMS, SCAMS….be aware, scams are becoming more believable and authentic looking. because Artificial Intelligence is being used.
Artificial Intelligence is developing and becoming more powerful every day. Today, it can create posts, publications that look as authentic as the ones from the real companies. They are made so well, you cannot differentiate them from the real post.
Next, they are developing audio/voice creations that duplicate a voice that is comparable to the real person. The duplicates are better than a ventriloquist could create.
All this is frightening. The fakes are as good as the real ones.
Bottom line, DO NOT ENGAGE WITH ANYTHING YOU RECEIVE ONLINE UNLESS YOU HAVE INITIATED IT YOURSELF.
Do not engage with any of these online messages. They have been created using Artificial Intelligence and AI is so well developed it makes the fake one look as real as the authentic one.
They are simple, consistent practices that help build physical, mental, and emotional resilience.
The power of mindful mornings
People in their 70s who truly thrive tend to wake up with a heart full of appreciation: maybe they’re grateful for their cozy bed, the warmth of the sun streaming through the window, or just the gift of another day to explore life’s possibilities.
It might seem like a small gesture, but this subtle shift in perspective can do wonders for your mood and mindset.
Scientists have actually studied the impact of gratitude on our health, and it’s amazing how a simple “thank you” to the universe—or to a higher power—can lower stress levels and boost overall life satisfaction.
Ever notice how cats stretch the moment they wake up? They’re onto something. A gentle stretch sequence or a short walk can help loosen stiff muscles, improve circulation, and prepare your body for the day ahead.
I used to reach for my coffee mug the moment I rolled out of bed, but I’ve since learned the value of hydrating first. Our bodies can get dehydrated overnight, and a big glass of water in the morning helps rehydrate cells, jumpstart digestion, and wake the brain up.
Plenty of older adults I admire have made this a standard part of their.
Seniors who are still sharp, active, and energetic eat a balanced morning meal that includes some protein, fiber, and whole-grain carbs. That might mean oatmeal with fruit and a sprinkle of nuts, scrambled eggs with spinach, or a simple yogurt parfait.
Mornings are perfect for a short mindfulness practice or setting a simple intention for the day. This could be as quick as closing your eyes and taking a few deep breaths, or jotting down a mantra like “I choose peace” or “I will show kindness today.”
Thriving in our later years isn’t just about physical health; it’s also about staying mentally alert and engaged. Many older adults mention that they like to read the newspaper, solve a crossword puzzle, or even tackle a few rounds of a word game on their phone.
This mental warm-up can sharpen cognitive function and give your brain the workout it craves. As the old saying goes, “Use it or lose it.”
Most of the seniors have a strong sense of community and relationship health. Some make time in the morning to call a friend, send a text to a grandchild, or simply chat with a neighbor while collecting the mail.
Waking up each day with a spirit of curiosity and wonder can fuel a fulfilling life at any age. People who thrive well into their 70s and beyond usually have an insatiable appetite for learning and exploring.
Final thoughts
Healthy aging isn’t just a matter of luck or genetics. While those things do play a role, the habits we adopt—and consistently practice—can make a profound difference in our physical and emotional well-being. A good morning routine provides the foundation for a more energetic, purposeful day, no matter your stage of life.
It’s never too late to start tweaking your morning habits. Pick what resonates with you and your lifestyle. Maybe that’s a quick gratitude journal entry, a few minutes of yoga stretches, or a friendly check-in call.
Over time, these small shifts can become second nature, gradually improving your quality of life.
At the end of it all, thriving into your 70s and beyond is a matter of honoring your body, nurturing your mind, and staying connected to your sense of wonder.
In light and in support of democratic principles
Councillor Lisa Robinson should make public comments without resorting to inciteful and vitriolic language.
Robinson, a duly elected city councillor, should be more cognizant of her use of heated words. Though words like ‘lie,’ ‘corrupt,’ ‘scandal’ may have validity, they are inciteful and serve no public good in municipal council discussions. Robinson seems impervious to the impact and repercussions of these words when she speaks about council members and city officials.
The public should carefully and strictly evaluate Robinson’s statements. She often has valid points which get buried among other inciteful and negative statements. The public needs to tease out the positive from the negative. “Careless spending” or “poorly managed expenditures” do not necessarily mean corruption. The public has faith that their elected representatives are principled and ethical politicians and implying any are corrupt without corroboration and evidence is unfair and unjust. These kinds of matters are better left to the legal authorities’ investigations rather than bandied about in the public arena.
With the above points in mind, view the Robinson March highlights with a critical eye. She is suggests negative slants in some areas but buries them among positive things in her sweeping generalizations.
View her March Council Meeting highleights with a critical eye.
See -> MAR_HIGHLIGHTS
I don’t think any US journalist has written as tough (and spot-on) a portrayal of the threat facing us as this Canadian, Andrew Coyne of the Toronto Globe and Mail, formerly of the National Post and a regular panelist on CBC Rosie Barton’s Thursday panel discussion with Chantal Hebert and Althea Raj.
Coyne writes:
“Nothing mattered, in the end. Not the probable dementia, the unfathomable ignorance, the emotional incontinence; not, certainly, the shambling, hate-filled campaign, or the ludicrously unworkable anti-policies.
The candidate out on bail in four jurisdictions, the convicted fraud artist, the adjudicated rapist and serial sexual predator, the habitual bankrupt, the stooge of Vladimir Putin, the man who tried to overturn the last election and all of his creepy retinue of crooks, ideologues and lunatics: Americans took a long look at all this and said, yes please.
There is no sense in understating the depth of the disaster. This is a crisis like no other in our lifetimes. The government of the United States has been delivered into the hands of a gangster, whose sole purpose in running, besides staying out of jail, is to seek revenge on his enemies. The damage Donald Trump and his nihilist cronies can do – to America, but also to its democratic allies, and to the peace and security of the world – is incalculable. We are living in the time of Nero.
The state of the world
The first six months will be a time of maximum peril. NATO must from this moment be considered effectively obsolete, without the American security guarantee that has always been its bedrock. We may see new incursions by Russia into Europe – the poor Ukrainians are probably done for, but now it is the Baltics and the Poles who must worry – before the Europeans have time to organize an alternative. China may also accelerate its Taiwanese ambitions.
Back in the USA
At home, Mr. Trump will be moving swiftly to consolidate his power. Some of this will be institutional – the replacement of tens of thousands of career civil servants with Trumpian loyalists. But some of it will be … atmospheric.
At some point someone – a company whose chief executive has displeased him, a media critic who has gotten under his skin – will find themselves the subject of unwanted attention from the Trump administration. It might not be so crude as a police arrest. It might just be a little regulatory matter, a tax audit, something like that. They will seek the protection of the courts, and find it is not there.
The courts
The judges are also Trump loyalists, perhaps, or too scared to confront him. Or they might issue a ruling, and find it has no effect – that the administration has called the basic bluff of liberal democracy: the idea that, in the crunch, people in power agree to be bound by the law, and by its instruments the courts, the same as everyone else. Then everyone will take their cue. Executives will line up to court him. Media organizations, the large ones anyway, will find reasons to be cheerful.
Repercussion of president’s policies
Of course, in reality things will start to fall apart fairly quickly. The huge across-the-board tariffs he imposes will tank the world economy. The massive deficits, fueled by his ill-judged tax policies – he won’t replace the income tax, as he promised, but will fill it with holes – and monetized, at his direction, by the Federal Reserve, will ignite a new round of inflation.
Most of all, the insane project of deporting 12 million undocumented immigrants – finding them, rounding them up and detaining them in hundreds of internment camps around the country, probably for years, before doing so – will consume his administration. But by then it will be too late.
His electoral supporters
We should not count upon the majority of Americans coming to their senses in any event. They were not able to see Mr. Trump for what he was before: why should that change? Would they not, rather, be further coarsened by the experience of seeing their neighbours dragged off by the police, or the military, further steeled to the necessity of doing “tough things” to “restore order?”
Some won’t, of course. But they will find in time that the democratic levers they might once have pulled to demand change are no longer attached to anything. There are still elections, but the rules have been altered: there are certain obstacles, certain disadvantages if you are not with the party of power. It will seem easier at first to try to change things from within. Then it will be easier not to change things.
Effects on Canada
All of this will wash over Canada in various ways – some predictable, like the flood of refugees seeking escape from the camps; some less so, like the coarsening of our own politics, the debasement of morals and norms by politicians who have discovered there is no political price to be paid for it. And who will have the backing of their patron in Washington.
All my life I have been an admirer of the United States and its people. But I am frightened of it now, and I am even more frightened of them.”
In 2024, the City of Pickering tackled over 240 reported cases of careless littering and illegal dumping through its Customer Care Centre. Each instance wasn’t just trash—it was a direct assault on our community’s natural beauty, a threat to wildlife, and a disruption to local ecosystems. Littering doesn’t just tarnish our public spaces; it endangers lives, strains resources, and undermines everything we stand for as a community.
Now is the time to act. The City is proud to launch “Littering? That’s So Trash”, a bold campaign designed to spark accountability and inspire change. This isn’t just about garbage—it’s about redefining what “trash” means. Among Millennials and Gen Z, “trash” has become slang for something undesirable or unacceptable. By repurposing this term, we’re sending a clear message: littering is shameful, harmful, and socially unacceptable. Let’s turn that shame into pride—pride in keeping Pickering clean and protecting our environment.
Actual trashing in a Pickering neighbourhood bordering by a Tim Horton’s across the street. The manager has had staff clean the properties numerous times but some patrons just never learn.
How You Can Make a Difference
Earth Month Activities
Interested in planting trees, learning how to grow vegetables, or discovering the lifecycle of honeybees? Check out our lineup of Earth Month events—because every small action contributes to a cleaner, greener Pickering.
Together, we can redefine what’s acceptable in our city and ensure that littering becomes a thing of the past. Let’s show everyone that Pickering cares—for its people, its wildlife, and its future.
Visit City of Pickering site for more information -> LITTER
Ruth Coghill is a modern day missionary, spreading the Good Word and doing the Good Work throughout the world.
Add a little calm to your world by reading her spring newsletter at -> COGHILL
Lisa Robinson, Pickering Councillor, Ward 1 has thrown her hat into the Canadian Election campaign as the candidate for the Max Bernier’s party, the People’s Party of Canada.
She has been suspended without pay from Pickering council and campaigning will be another financial hit on her pocket book.
Mayor Ashe has asked Robinson to step away from council if she campaigns. Robinson declares she will carry out council duties along with election campaigning.
Read details in -> Ashe_Robinson
She’s off and running and from the looks of it, with an abundance of energy, enthusiasm and effort.
Alicia Vianga officially launched her campaign with the opening of her campaign office headquarters in central Pickering.
A lot of hula baloo as nearly a hundred people attended within minutes of her campaign office doors opening. These attendees may have been the die hard Conservative Party supporters, maybe just enthusiastic supporters of Pierre Poilievre or simply curious voters. No matter the explanation, it was a decent sized crowd for a rainy, cloudy Saturday morning.
The crowd was energetic and eager to shake Vianga’s hand or have a photo snapped with her. It was a campaign launch that cued up the old days, even bringing back veteran Conservative candidates from the past. Who remembers Tony Clement except the older voters, the Conservative candidate for Parry Sound Muskoka during the Stephen Harper era. A veteran of years of political campaigning, Clement welcomed the crowd with campaign rhetoric from the past.
Additionally, the Conservative candidate for Ajax-Whitby, Greg Brady, added more words of welcome and praise for Vianga as a hard-working, dedicated campaigner.
Vianga thanked the many people who are working as volunteers in her campaign. The list of appreciated people was extensive and Vianga’s words rang with sincerity and gratitude.
After her welcome speech, the crowd was treated to a special campaign cake made for the occasion along with light lunch fare.
Looking around Vianga’s campaign office strewn with her lawn signs everywhere and amidst a large supportive group, one could not help but get the feeling that this is a high-energy, strongly supported campaign. The adrenalin flowed, the passion rose, and the spirit soared making one feel this campaign is behind a winner.
Personally speaking, I got the feeling that this was a likely winning candidate’s campaign launch. The only niggling hitch is the gossip and rumours behind Vianga’s nomination. Other criticisms label her a parachuted candidate, although she claims to have a Pickering residence. When asked for how long, the response was vague without any time line. Despite these troubling issues, the feeling in the room was definitely and emphatically that she will win. It remains to be seen.
T**** faces yet another crisis after The Atlantic’s Jeff Goldberg exposed a shocking intelligence breach. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz mistakenly added the journalist to a Signal group chat—including top U.S. officials—where Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth shared battle plans for a Houthi attack in Yemen.
Waltz is under fire for creating the unsecured chat, but Hegseth faces greater scrutiny for jeopardizing American troops. Despite the severity, accountability seems unlikely. Attorney General Pam Bondi downplayed the leak, and T**** dismissed it, attacking the reporter instead.
Politically, T****’s week hasn’t fared much better. Democrats pulled off a surprise Pennsylvania Senate win, signaling GOP vulnerability. Meanwhile, he withdrew Elise Stefanik’s U.N. nomination to safeguard a tight House majority.
As T****’s approval ratings slip, he’s trying to shift the narrative—this time with new tariffs. But distraction tactics won’t erase this national security debacle.
Mar 17-21 was a difficult week for Donald T****, marked by economic struggles and his usual tactics of deflection and misinformation.
Unfortunately, due to an auto mishap, I am unable to give a first hand report of the Mayor’s recent Town Hall. However, the executive assistant, Sarah B., gave me needed help with some of the questions and answers from the event.
Purchase of Frenchman’s Bay?
Mayor Ashe provided an update on his plans to purchase the Bay and his request to the provincial and federal government to provide funding, so that it can be returned back to public ownership. Mayor Ashe was asked about the purchase of Frenchman’s Bay and if there is a back up plan funding from the province and federal government. Mayor Ashe is hoping to receive an update following the provincial budget mid-April and would expect the federal budget soon after the election.
What will the plans be for the surrounding lands of Frenchman’s Bay?
Mayor Ashe says we have some areas that are rented by OPG and perhaps the other areas will be utilized for community events and spaces. The Mayor is open to all suggestions from the community but no plans at the moment.
What is happening with the investment in Elexicon?
Resident would like more updates on the possible sale of Pickering and Ajax’s shares. – Mayor Ashe says that communications will follow once we have more information.
What is the Future of the Mall?
Mayor Ashe says that we will be having more stores incoming and that the hope is that the condominiums connecting to the mall will bring more foot traffic. We have already seen new stores such as JD Sports, Lulu Lemon, and Pickleplex Pickering bringing a new energy to the mall.
What are the latest plans for the Petticote Creek planning?
Mayor Ashe says that TRCA would like to keep the uses more passive, instead of an active conservation area with ongoing activities. He would like to see it returned to what it once was with the pool etc on site.
What is happening to improve Pickering’s Waterfront Parking?
Residents asked about increased number of accessible parking spaces and parking passes for guests that can be renewed for longer than one year.
What is the latest action on New Development and the delays in opening schools?
Mayor Ashe mentioned that 14 school sites have been identified for Seaton, but that the school boards cannot move forward until the need is determined by the Province. He suggested also reaching out to Public/Catholic Trustees to share concerns.
What is the latest information about Pickering’s New Public Square as part of City Centre?
Discussed City Centre project that includes a public square, and a refrigerated rink in the winter and an area to host the farmers market.
Driving Pickering roads is a challenge: how is the city planning road Resurfacing?
Residents asked when roads will be resurfaced. Mayor Ashe discussed the budget per year for road resurfacing and the process in which roads are selected for repairs/resurfacing.
Amazing how we write and talk about the clown in the White House but still AmeriKans are doing nothing about him. Well, that may come to an end very soon.
Read TorStar contributor who writes “U.S. provides a warning to Canada: When you elect a clown, you get a circus: -> Shallene Drakes-Tull
Looks like the madman in the AmeriKan White House is going to war, economically.
He now has fired at the European Union and Canada with his tariff attacks. See TorStar
The backlash is coming…right now it is verbal coming from journalists and social commentators but in a week, Apr 2nd or so, the real action will begin as prices will begin their drastic increases. Canadians can do nothing by lament, but AmeriKans will begin to demonstrate with the effects of those tariffs.
Pickering-Brooklin riding, Mar 27/25
WITH CANDIDATES
ALICIA VIANGA JUANITA NATHAN
NO CANDIDATES in PICKERING-BROOKLIN Riding
Recently I read a book labelled by many as a classic:
1984
George Orwell
published 1949
In George Orwell’s 1984, the world is divided into three totalitarian states: Oceania, Eurasia, and Eastasia. Winston Smith, a low-ranking member of the ruling Party in Oceania, secretly rebels against the government’s pervasive surveillance and control. Working at the Ministry of Truth, Winston alters historical records to conform to the Party’s ideology. He begins a forbidden affair with Julia and seeks rebellion, but they are caught by the Thought Police. After brutal torture, Winston betrays Julia and comes to love Big Brother, illustrating the devastating effects of totalitarianism on individual freedom and humanity.
This book bothered me because though the book written just after WWII and published more than 75 years ago, it has too many totalitarian and anti-democratic aspects to it that are applicable to the United States of AmeriKa today.
Psycho Donnie T**** is eroding democracy there with his cronyism and appointment of bootlicking sycophants. The psycho is alienating the world, Canada in particular, calling us the 51st state and jokingly referring to our former Prime Minister by first name (Justin).
What bothers me about all this is that though many journalists and experienced older legal experts criticize this erosion of democracy but no one seems to be doing anything about it.
I may not live long enough to see AmeriKan democracy’s total collapse but at the rate this assh*le is implementing his autocratic initiatives, I just might.
Ever hear about the “old boys club?”
Well, it’s a strong as ever and you little people, swat, swat, scat, go away!
Nice job…if you can get it.
Read the full story -> BAY_OLD_BOYS_CLUB
HOUSING
For many Canadians housing is the biggest issue of concern, not just housing, but affordable housing.
Politicians at every level of government claim concern for the housing issues in Canada. The problem is a crucial one for many Canadians and these voters would like to hear concrete, real steps being taken to deal with this very serious issue.
HIGH COST OF LIVING
News reports claim inflation is low but for most consumers, the grocery bills seem to be exorbitant. Grocery prices seem to be out of control or beyond the comfortable or acceptable level for man Canadians. The news report claims are misleading. Grocery prices are very high and increasing regularly. The situation has been exacerbated by the tariffs imposed by the USA. These tariffs will likely be reciprocated by the Canadian federal government with the repercussions affecting food prices. The Canadian voter would like to hear what the federal government candidates would do to regulate or reduce the continuously rising food prices.
INCREASED USE OF FOOD BANKS
Food Bank use in Canada, especially in the larger cities, is at record levels and growing. Governments at all levels need to step in and help people suffering food anxiety. This is a major problem governments must address with concrete strategies to help people in need.
AmeriKa
Musk’s America PAC is offering $100 to every registered voter who gives them contact information and signs a petition opposing “activist judges.” In addition, it is promising $100 for each Wisconsin voter they refer who also signs the petition. The devil is in the fine print, however. Payment is not automatic or quick. The PAC decides who gets paid and when, which might not be for months.
Canada
Poilievre promises to lower taxes for everyone by 15% -> TorStarTAXES
EDITORIAL COMMENT:
Though the electorate may be tired of Liberals, they should not rush to Poilievre too quickly. Poilievre has never worked a day in his life really. He’s a career politician who speaks in sound bites even in personal conversations. Have a coffee with him (lol) and its bite, bite, bite. CBC should be there. The man is as phony as any politician. The choice is to pick the “less phony.” At least Carney has worked, has business experience, knows what it is like to earn a paycheck rather than take from the political trough on and on and on…over 20 years.
________
Who’s the better choice?
We’ll likely be voting for Carney but it depends on the candidate really. Jennifer O’Connell is not running again.
__________
You should read this -> CARNEYorPOILEVRE
Juanita Nathan was nominated 3/26/25
More information is forthcoming.
Campaign headquarters
Carney has numerous factors working against him like never having run in an election, never being elected to office. Strikes that will have him swinging needlessly but he also has factors in his favour. He knows finances. He knows business. He knows how to run a company.
Carney’s achilles heel may be that he is quick tempered as seen when the media questioned his blind trusted assets. He was quick to defend with aggression approaching veiled anger. This could do him harm in a election campaign where the media will be like hungry dogs demanding answers to raw boned questions.
If he can control his senstivities and respond with on target reminders about his experience and work skills, he will win. However, it is crucial to remind him, his surprising rise to the top of the polls against Poilievre is no guarantee that he can coast to the electoral finish line.
Try as we might, for some reason this leader does not sit well with us. Too slick. Too verbally polished. Too politically coloured with no other colours.
This leader has never worked a day in his life other than polishing his political persona. That’s not a comfortable fit.
Poilievre speaks a great game, polished, refined, practiced and smooth….too smooth. He speaks like a pro. He plays to the demands of media sound bites…glib, bite, sharp and refined.
This guy is a lot. He’s smooth, sophisticated, polished to a mahogoney sheen. For some reason in my view he lacks real substance. He hits the right notes, to the tune but he says nothing beyond what a pro politician would say.
He’s into a 30+ day campaign…will he change my view? We’ll see !
|
MARK CARNEY |
PIERRE POILIEVRE |
JAGMEET SINGH |
|
Pros: |
Pros: |
Pros: |
|
Extensive economic expertise |
Strong communication skills |
Charismatic leadership |
|
International experience |
Ability to identify resonant issues |
Ethical and sincere image |
|
Strong educational background |
Had significant lead in polls |
Resilience in crises |
|
Significant political momentum |
Effective government critic |
Progressive vision |
|
Experience guiding Canada through 2008 crisis |
Political flexibility |
Represents diversity |
|
Advocate for environmental sustainability |
Seasoned leader with two campaigns |
|
|
Adaptable in political relationships |
The Democracy Index, a project created by Joyce Vance (former U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama, 2009-2017), tracks developments in Donald Trump’s second administration (“Trump 2.0”) based on facts and analysis. Published on The Contrarian Substack platform, this weekly index aims to help citizens navigate the flood of information by identifying the most critical threats to American democracy. Below is a list of anti-democratic initiatives documented in the Democracy Index through March 2025.
Vice President JD Vance suggested that federal judges could not “control the executive’s legitimate power”
Vance explicitly stated that Trump should defy the courts, even the Supreme Court, if they stand in the way of his executive authority
Vance characterized defiance of court orders not as creating a constitutional crisis, but as “recognizing” one
Elon Musk proposed firing 1% of federal judges every year to eliminate “corruption,” despite constitutional guarantees of life tenure
The administration has faced multiple court orders blocking its executive actions, with judges “standing for the rule of law and against overreach”
The administration failed to comply with a court order from Chief Judge John McConnell in Rhode Island regarding federal spending
Multiple federal judges blocked an executive order attempting to end birthright citizenship
Judge Brendan Hurson blocked an executive order shutting down access to gender-affirming medical care for transgender people under 19
Judge John Bates ordered federal agencies to restore website content removed due to Trump’s executive order on “gender ideology and extremism”
Dismantling of the FBI’s Foreign Influence Task Force
Elimination of DOJ’s Corporate Enforcement Unit
Dissolution of the KleptoCapture Task Force and Kleptocracy Teams
The Index documented a “red carpet rollout for foreign influence”
Reduced enforcement of the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA)
Paused enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act
Political interference in DOJ operations, described as “Thursday’s injustices inside the Department of Justice”7
The Eric Adams case dismissal that reportedly caused multiple prosecutors to resign in protest[appendix]
Trump referring to himself as “king”[appendix]
Trump embracing Napoleon’s quote about breaking laws to “save” the country[appendix]
Cabinet meetings displaying patterns of “obedience and sycophancy”[appendix]
Documented “strikes against the free press and First Amendment”[appendix]
Part of a broader pattern of undermining democratic institutions6
Each weekly Index catalogues “the various degradations our institutions and constitutional order have suffered under Donald Trump”6
The March 21, 2025 edition describes “the ravages Trump, Musk, and their gang are wreaking upon the country”6
The Index characterizes these challenges as “an ongoing struggle” to maintain democracy6
The Democracy Index serves as a critical resource tracking the erosion of democratic norms and institutions during Trump’s second term. Joyce Vance and her team at The Contrarian continue to document these developments weekly, helping citizens focus on substantive threats rather than distractions. As stated in the Index, the goal is to support people in being “engaged and conversant with their democracy, avoiding the kind of overload that all too often led to disengagement during Trump’s first administration”.
Connecting with a LIVE PERSON by phone is becoming an increasing challenge in today’s world. It should not be so.
Every company, every government body, every organization should make it its goal to make PHONE CONNECTIVITY easier for their constituents, clients. Dedicate a phone number to LIVE RESPONSE, to a department whose responsibility is to answer the phone call IN PERSON.
Connecting with a LIVE PERSON by phone today is a near impossibility. Computer bots are assigned the task with the thinking being it is more efficient, productive, and profitable. The majority of today’s population still remembers when phone calls to a company got a live person. No more. Today a computer bot begins a list of numbers to press for whatever reason, ultimately asking the caller to leave a message. That message may or may not get a response. The caller often gives up hope of connecting with a live person. THIS CAN AND SHOULD BE CHANGED.
How to change the LIVE PERSON phone connectivity issue
Every company, every government body, every organization to set an ‘in house’ rule: every employ should be told to make 9:00 – 10:30 am of every business day, “telephone answer time.” Every employee, department, staff person should be in their office ready to take phone calls during that period.
If staff are swamped with telephone calls
If the staff are swamped with calls, computer bots can deal with the overflow. Eventually, staff will have fewer and fewer calls as they deal with callers. If this reduction never happens, the organization will need to supplement their call answer service. Otherwise, staff will eventually clear the backlog of phone callers and the public will appreciate successful phone connectivity.
If there are no calls
Eventually, calls will be managed to a point where there are fewer and fewer calls. If the staff person receives no phone calls, they can work on their organization responsibilities without interruption for the designated phone calling period after which they can work in the old fashioned way, meeting with colleagues, conferencing with others, connecting with necessary connections.
Phone period is for office dedication to phone connectivity
The designated phone period is just that, the time when every staff member of the organization is in their office ready to take phone calls, should they be phoned. No meetings elsewhere, no conferencing with other staff. Phone calls are the primary responsibility of all staff at this time. They can work on other matters if there are no phone calls. But for the 9:00 – 10:30 am period is designated as “be in your office available for phone calls, FULL STOP.”
Imagine the world with 9-10:30 phone hour
Everyone would know where the office staff person is at 9-10:30 am. They would be in their office on the phone or ready to accept a phone call. People would know someone is there to answer the phone and the only thing holding them back from answering live is that they are on the phone with another person. But they would be available tomorrow, or the next day. Every caller would know there is a person available at the designated time, their chief responsibility between 9-1o:30 am to answer phone calls and the only thing detracting them for doing that is they are on the phone with another person.
A unique endeavour and feeling
Imagine, everywhere, every city, every region, every business, every organization dedicated to the same thing from 9-10:30 am every business day, to answer phone calls from its clients, its constituents. Imagine the feeling knowing that your call is getting though because the organization has that period assigned to all staff to answer phone calls. What an amazing world it would be…a return the days of old when person phone responses were the norm rather than the isolated exception.
Any company that does not participate in the phone hour
Any company that does not participate in the phone hour either has not heard of the idea, very likely, or they just don’t care about whether customer, client, constituent personal phone service. The latter cannot be as every reputable company or organization dealing with the public believes in good customer relations which live person phone response would be. No reputable company or organization will dismiss this service as unimportant or too minor to worry about.
Let’s see where all this goes…time to change corporate America and beyond…don’t you think!
Become better connected to the world.
Be better informed, better connected.
Join the Digital World.
___________________
The world today is digital. Banking is done online. Payments are made online. Appointments are made online. People communicate online. Documentation is exchanged online.
Soon, an email address will be as common as a telephone number.
Just consider this growing list of digitally connected organizations:
mayor_tory@toronto.ca
councillor_holyday@toronto.ca
councillor_grimes@toronto.ca
councillor_nunziata@toronto.ca
councillor_perruzza@toronto.ca
councillor_mckelvie@toronto.ca
councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca
councillor_crawford@toronto.ca
councillor_thompson@toronto.ca
Councillor_Mantas@toronto.ca
councillor_lai@toronto.ca
councillor_carroll@toronto.ca
councillor_minnan-wong@toronto.ca
councillor_filion@toronto.ca
councillor_pasternak@toronto.ca
councillor_colle8@toronto.ca
councillor_robinson@toronto.ca
councillor_bradford@toronto.ca
councillor_fletcher@toronto.ca
councillor_bailao@toronto.ca
councillor_mihevc10@toronto.ca
councillor_layton@toronto.ca
councillor_matlow@toronto.ca
councillor_perks@toronto.ca
Councillor_BuxtonPotts@toronto.ca
Who cares? Government leaders, politicians in power sure don’t.
These elected officials spend our money like drunken sailors. Who care how much is wasted? Who cares if any money is wasted? Who cares how much is spent? Who cares if it is non-productive? Who cares if it’s a waste.
Well, Msrs. Government leaders, we care!
News: Toronto to spend $48 million to remove bike lanes, installed just a couple of years ago for $27 million. $21 million taxpayer dollars out the window. Who cares? It ain’t their money. It doesn’t hurt one single politician, one thin dime.
Just do it one day for $27 mill and then cancel it for an additional $48 mill. Don’t worry about the cost. It’s not your money. Voters will complain for a while but they won’t, can’t do anything about it. So let’s spend, spend, spend.
Taxpayers of Toronto…complain
Taxpayers should care! They should complain. In this instance, bike lanes in Toronto is the worry of Toronto residents. They are losing $75 million dollars because of the poor planning by the City of Toronto.
Maybe there was no way to anticipate the brouhaha that would erupt because of bike lanes. Someone in government decided bike lanes, a good idea at one time, now a bad idea. So let’s switch horses in mid-stream and hang the expense; $27 mill in, $48 mill more out. That totals $75 mill taxpayer dollars out the window as the bike lane policy is reversed by the ‘great planners at Toronto City hall.’ Bravo boys and girls. Not to worry. It won’t be a penny out of your pocket. You won’t pay a penny for such poor policy making. There should be a better way to handle such expense. What an example of lousy planning. If not poor planning, then piss poor management of taxpayer money.
No matter how you criticize this expenditure, it still remains $75 million taxpayer dollars wasted.
This is not a unique situation to Toronto only. This kind of waste seems to be the norm in every political corner rather than the exception.
The solution
There is an answer: elect an ombudsman committee to evaluate government spending and where it is concluded to be an outright waste of money, penalize the current sitting members of that government. As the committee is elected for a specified term, if they do poor work, they are not re-elected. The solution may not be perfect. It may have flaws but it sure would make politicians think twice before they spend taxpayer money like drunken sailors.
______
Consider sending an email message to your Toronto councillors if you live in Toronto….unless you feel great about $75 million of you tax payer dollars being wasted….
Email addresses to Toronto councillors -> TORONTOCOUNCILLORS
The world is in a mess and it’s really bothering me…
___________________
I just finished reading two George Orwell books, 1984 and Animal Farm, and now as I watch the news, my mind buzzes and whirls with stressful and worrisome thoughts.
Orwell was prescient in his predictions in “1984,” written in 1943-44. He wrote a story that told of the new world that was coming 40 years hence, a world of autocratic rule by a hierarchy of powerful and dominant leaders. Democracy was dead. In fact, it was removed from all living memory as if it never existed. The same for any and all things associated with the freedoms of the world we lived in decades before. No more free speech. No more free association. No more freedom of movement and on and on. Even the language was restricted and regulated in such a way that nothing associated with the previous unregulated world was permitted in the new vocabulary. In fact, the new language was contradictory to the old, newspeak vs oldspeak. Hence, freedom = slavery, black = white, dark = light and so on. Truth became constant lies. Facts were altered to suit the new autocratic world.
The new world was worse in more than language. It was a world of surveillance and privacy invasion, the leaders, led by Big Brother, controlled, regulated and scrutinized everyone with television monitoring systems everywhere watching everyone constantly. We call those CCTV in our world today, ‘closed circuit TV.’ A single word of rebellion or criticism and the person was removed from society and erased from all social-historical records as never having existed.
As I watch the news today, I fear we are tumbling down into that world of 1984 faster than a snowball rolling down a steep ski slope. Truth is questionable in every news broadcast. Words spoken by world leaders are tainted with doubt of veracity and validity. The leader of the USA leads the world into this abyss of lies, falsehoods and deceit. Worse, increasingly we accept the world as it becomes more unacceptable and eroded.
Gaza and Israel
Such conflicts should be condemned, criticized and not be accepted anywhere. Yet the Palestinians are being bombarded daily, ceaselessly. Foreign aid, food and medical supplies blocked entry at the borders.
War in Ukraine
Again, a war that should never been allowed, that never should be viewed as tolerable or acceptable is now into over 3 years. Worse, the negotiators at a possible peace negotiations include Russia, the USA, France, the UK but UKRAINE IS NOT AT THE TABLE. Worse, the world is tiring of hearing about the war. Ukraine is doomed.
American world Aid
The USA once aided the world with financial support, medical and research suppoort, food and medical aid support. Now, poof. T**** has cancelled all aid, unemployed all agencies’ staff and shut the spigot of aid to the world.
American medical research
Again, employees have been terminated and research into disease, maladies, viruses plaguing the USA and the world has stopped. Measles eradicated decades ago, in on the rise in the USA and also in Canada. The US Secretary of Health, Robert Kennedy, rejects all inoculation and antivirus injections as bogus and hoaxes, launching policies to discourage vaccination and inoculation.
Diplomacy discardable
Gone are the days of diplomacy and consular etiquette. T**** has opened to the door diplomatic denigration and humiliation, viz his recent meeting with Ukrainian leader Zelinsky. That was bad enough, but now other leaders are jumping on his bandwagon of Canada being the 51st state, Trudeau being called governor rather than properly. PM Starmer of the UK talks about Canada as if it were a non-entity. Remember T**** pushing another world leader aside in a photo opp, like teens pushing for a better place in line.
____________
Orwell’s Animal Farm is a tale of the animals on a farm rebelling against the human farmer and establishing their independence only to see that animal world decay, disintegrate and degenerate into a world led by a dictator with autocratic cronies and a cohort of aggressive bullies to keep others in line. T**** is working in that manner with his Immigration Control and Enforcement agency (ICE). Deportations without legal question or support. Outright violation of constitutional safeguards.
Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security at risk
T**** has agencies such as the FBI led by his cronies who are to weed out non -supporters of the “king.” Already, the committee members investigating the resurrectionists attacking the US capitol are labelled as non T**** supporters. The pardons/safeguards Biden gave to those committee members have been removed by T**** with the declaration that they were not binding because they were signed by autopens.
DOGE, Department of Government Efficiency, headed by Elon Musk of Tesla and Paypal connections, is cutting federal employees from their jobs. Musk is determined to save more as he cuts federal employees and T**** shuts down agencies. T**** has decreased funding of the American Meat Regulation agency and the same to the poultry agency. The resulting impacts, meat production reduction, millions and millions of chickens slaughtered for fear of avian flu. What do you think will be the effect on meat production? The cost of eggs? Do you think Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security are safe….don’t put money on it.
The more news I watch, the worse the state of the world looks. But you have to stay informed just as you have to speak out where you might influence defence or protection. The wacko in the AmeriKan White House dreams up new calamities nightly. Tariffs were initial launches but they will be reciprocated internationally with other countries launching counter tariffs. None of the resulting repercussions will be felt by the elite such as T**** and his cronies or the elite of any country for that matter. It will be the average citizen, the ‘prol’ in Orwell’s words, who will suffer the consequences. Just a few weeks and your family food shopper will announce the disastrous increases in food prices, some foods will be off the table because of their price increases.
I don’t know where the world is heading. I do know I am worried, stressed and becoming depressed at what I am seeing daily and nightly.
T**** WATCH
is a special section listing the areas or issues where T**** violates the AmeriKan constitution or tests getting away with breaking the law which the constitution regulates.
AREAS/ISSUES OF WORRY
The president can issue executive orders that enact certain policies. However, there are controls on executive orders, that prevent them from becoming dictatorial decrees. Therefore T**** can issue policies that enact what he wants done but his executive orders are subject to certain regulations and constraint. He cannot become a dictator, just yet.
__________________
Executive Orders in American Government: Summary
This is a concise overview of the term “executive orders” in the U.S. government system, highlighting the foundations, history, and the guardrails that limit their use.
Overview
Constitutional Foundation
Types and Scope
Historical Development
Constitutional Guardrails and Limitations
Judicial Review
Legislative Oversight
Inherent Constitutional Limitations
Recent Developments
Conclusion
The Democracy Index
Source: The Contrarian
Tracking The Democracy Index in this time of peril is sometimes heartbreaking. We’ve seen attacks on the rule of law, rampant corruption, and other sundry harms to our country. But this week, there are strong, if slim, rays of light peeking through, as democracy notched some important wins in federal courts throughout the country — tipping the Index in a positive direction.
Under tremendous strain, the courts held the line. Federal judges powerfully rejected Trump’s boldly unlawful maneuvers and called out the Administration’s “lies.” They fast-tracked procedures to enable accountability and enforce due process. The district courts utilized their power to repel Trump’s most brazen tactics: misrepresentations, if not outright lies, made in court; attempts to evade proper jurisdiction; and assertions that the president’s authority overrides other considerations, including the Constitution.
It’s important for us to recognize when Trump’s autocratic gambits fail and remember that he is not invincible; in fact, far from it. So this week we highlight….
Four major victories for democracy
First, on Thursday, Judge William Alsup in the Northern District of California slapped down the White House’s effort to fire scores of federal workers and ordered a number of agencies — including Treasury and Defense — to reinstate terminated employees. State Democracy Defenders Fund, led by Executive Chair and The Contrarian’s own Norm Eisen successfully represented the terminated probationary federal employees. Alsup rejected the Office of Personnel Management’s argument that it had not “directed” agencies to fire employees but merely issued “guidance.” And the judge scorched the Administration’s maneuver — determining it was a “sham in order to try to avoid statutory requirements,” and that the government knowingly “lie[d]” when it claimed the firings were performance-based. Alsup set his order to take effect immediately, though DOJ has already filed a notice of appeal.
Second, on Wednesday in Washington, D.C., Judge Beryl Howell stopped the Trump Administration from enforcing key portions of an Executive Order targeting the law firm Perkins Coie, ruling that the Order likely violated the First, Fifth, and Sixth Amendments. The EO seeks, in part, to terminate any government contracts with Perkins Coie and even prevent their attorneys from entering federal buildings (a directive, Howell noted, that would presumably include federal courthouses). This effort to punish lawyers and their clients — borne purely out of the president’s personal pique — strikes at a fundamental American principle: access to counsel and a lawyer’s responsibility to vigorously represent anyone. From John Adams to Clarence Darrow, the law’s most cherished practitioners defended the downtrodden, unpopular, and controversial. As Howell ruled, “The chilling effect of this executive order, 14230, threatens to significantly undermine the integrity of our entire legal system” and “casts a chilling harm of blizzard proportion across the entire legal profession.”
Beyond ruling against the Administration, Howell also lambasted the DOJ’s lawyers with rhetoric judges rarely direct against the federal government. She said that their argument sent “chills down my spine,” and compared Trump to the evil Queen of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland who “yells, ‘Off with their heads!’ at annoying subjects…and announces a sentence before a verdict.” Howell continued, “this cannot be the reality we are living under.”
That is the sound of the judiciary straightening its spine, refusing to be intimidated.
Howell’s strength was met with equal force by the courage of Williams and Connolly, the high-powered Washington, D.C. law firm representing Perkins Coie. This was a dangerous case for any firm to take on — after all, Trump could easily turn his fire against them next. But Williams and Connolly made a subtle yet powerful statement by placing fourteen attorneys’ names on their briefs, far more than typical. While that may not register as noteworthy for the general public, it’s a clear sign within the legal community, and to Trump’s DOJ, that they will not be cowed — one that will hopefully be echoed.
Third, the Trump Administration’s Alice in Wonderland approach to the rule of law — “sentence first, verdict afterwards” — is also playing out in the detention and attempted deportation of the activist Mahmoud Khalil. However one might view Khalil’s opinions and activities, the First Amendment remains a sacrosanct constitutional protection. But Trump and his acolytes revel in trampling free speech and assembly — from encouraging attacks on press freedoms and protections to threatening perceived enemies. The Khalil affair seems to be especially designed to inflame passions. Nevertheless, it represents a stark challenge to the First Amendment.
Judge Jesse Furman’s swift actions allowed Khalil to speak privately with his attorneys for the first time since he was apprehended. The government has produced no evidence substantiating their allegations, nor are they alleging any crimes. Yet Khalil remains in ICE custody in Louisiana. In a sign of fear, the government appears to be moving Khalil around the country in order to prevent SDNY (and Furman) from exercising jurisdiction. DOJ already moved to transfer the case to either New Jersey or Louisiana (which Khalil opposes). It remains to be seen whether that effort will succeed, but Furman already took steps earlier this week to ensure he did not lose initial jurisdiction.
Fourth, back in D.C., Judge Tanya Chutkan allowed the states challenging the constitutionality of DOGE and Elon Musk’s role in the government to obtain expedited discovery in their litigation. The information they receive will be used to support their anticipated motion for a preliminary injunction to stop DOGE in its tracks. In The Democracy Index, we have catalogued Musk’s and DOGE’s illegality, callousness, corruption, and damage. Chutkan’s order will enable those abuses to come to light.
The legal system has still won (note it is female judges often)
These four events constitute substantial victories for the rule of law, accountability, and transparency. Although the power of the courts is inherently limited — many of the rulings are temporary and some will be appealed — these judges used the tools at their disposal to uphold the law, create a clear record, and set an example for their colleagues and all of us. But, as ever, the strength of our democracy ultimately rests with the people — and the stirrings of discontent grow louder each day. The courts are doing their part, we must continue to do ours. We won’t always be able to come to you with good news, but this week, although we are cognizant that there are also dangerous developments in the works, we are happy to have some hopeful rulings to report.
Congratulations PM Carney, we wish you and us the very best.
We recognize our world and our country are in an existential state of risk and chaos. We wish you the best in dealing with the situation and state in which we find our nation at this time.
Good luck to all of us Mr. Prime Minister.
| Prime minister | Mark Carney |
| International trade and intergovernmental affairs and president of the king’s privy council for canada | Dominic LeBlanc |
| Foreign affairs and international development | Mélanie Joly |
| Finance | François-Philippe Champagne |
| Innovation, science and industry | Anita Anand |
| National defence | Bill Blair |
| Indigenous services | Patty Hajdu |
| Energy and natural resources | Jonathan Wilkinson |
| President of the treasury board | Ginette Petitpas Taylor |
| Canadian culture and identity, parks canada and quebec lieutenant | Steven Guilbeault |
| Transport and internal trade | Chrystia Freeland |
| Health | Kamal Khera |
| Justice and attorney general of canada and crown-indigenous relations and northern affairs | Gary Anandasangaree |
| Chief government whip | Rechie Valdez |
| Jobs and families | Steven MacKinnon |
| Public safety and emergency preparedness | David McGuinty |
| Environment and climate change | Terry Duguid |
| Infrastructure and communities | Nate Erskine-Smith |
| Immigration, refugees and citizenship | Rachel Bendayan |
| Veterans affairs and minister responsible for the canada revenue agency | Élisabeth Brière |
| Fisheries, oceans and the canadian coast guard | Joanne Thompson |
| Leader of the government in the house of commons and democratic institutions | Arielle Kayabaga |
| Agriculture and agri-food and rural economic development | Kody Blois |
| Government transformation, public services and procurement | Ali Ehsassi |
Martin Niemöller was born in Lippstadt, in the west of Germany, on 14 January 1892. He was the son of a priest, and in 1910 he joined the German Navy. During World War One he was assigned to a U-Boat, a German submarine, and eventually became its commander.
__________
First, they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a socialist.
Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a trade unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me — and there was no one left to speak for me.
___________
Niemöller followed in his father’s footsteps and started training to be a priest in 1920. The 1920s were a difficult time for many in Germany, and Niemöller took a part-time job laying railway tracks to earn money while studying. Many people, including Niemöller, believed that the new German government, the Weimar Republic, was unable to deal with the continuing economic and political problems Germany faced. Support for radical political groups like the Nazis grew. Life worsened for most Germans when the Great Depression, a worldwide economic crisis, started in 1929, with businesses closing and many people losing their jobs.
During the 1920s and early 1930s, the Nazi party under Adolf Hitler became increasingly popular. They blamed the country’s difficulties on Jews, foreigners, and the weakness of the Weimar government, and promised they would improve ordinary people’s lives. Niemöller was one of the Nazi party’s early supporters. After being ordained in 1929, he remained a strong supporter of Hitler, despite the party’s hatred of, and discrimination against, Jewish people and other groups.
Like many Germans at the time, Niemöller believed that the Nazis and Hitler would provide strong leadership to make Germany a powerful and respected nation again. He also saw the Nazi party as a way for Germany to return to the Christian morals he thought had been abandoned, even referring to Hitler as an ‘instrument sent by god’. Niemöller’s eventual split with the Nazi party came when they started to control the German Protestant Church. They appointed an official leader of the Church and changed the text of the Bible to remove what the Nazis saw as ‘Jewish ideology’.
After meeting with Adolf Hitler in January 1934, Niemöller started to see the Nazi state as a dictatorship. Even then, although Niemöller criticised the German government for interference in religious matters, he did not criticise the discriminatory laws forbidding Jewish people from marrying non-Jews, and preventing Jews from having jobs in government. Niemöller himself held antisemitic views; in the 1920s and 1930s he referred to Jews as a ‘despised people’ and ‘Christ killers’. The only arguments he made were that Jews should be allowed to remain members of the church once they converted to Christianity, and that the German government should not interfere with the way churches were run.
Niemöller’s opposition to the Nazi regime’s rules for churches saw him arrested several times, as he became increasingly critical of the Nazis and Hitler. In July 1937 he was arrested again, held for eight months without trial, and re-arrested immediately after his release by the Gestapo, Germany’s secret police. He was then sent to Sachsenhausen concentration camp. At this point, these camps held political prisoners, in addition to those perceived as ‘threats to society’ such as Jewish people, gay men, Roma and Sinti people, and ‘asocials’ including alcoholics and beggars. In 1941, Niemoller was transferred to Dachau concentration camp, where he would spend most of the rest of the war. Finally, in 1945 he was transferred to another camp in Austria, where he was liberated by American troops in April 1945.
After World War Two, Niemöller repeatedly expressed regret at his previous support for the Nazi party, and his failure to oppose it more broadly. In 1945 he admitted he ‘never quarrelled with Hitler over political matters, but purely on religious grounds’. However, it is notable that the first public record of Niemöller apologising for his own antisemitic words and views was not until 1963 in a radio interview.
In October of 1945, just a few months after the war ended, Niemöller headed a group of German churches who admitted they did not do enough to oppose the Nazi regime. Niemöller was one of very few Germans who called on their fellow citizens to accept their responsibility for Nazi atrocities too, saying in a sermon in 1946:
‘We must openly declare that we are not innocent of the Nazi murders, of the murder of German communists, Poles, Jews, and the people in German-occupied countries… And this guilt lies heavily upon the German people and the German name, even upon Christendom. For in our world and in our name have these things been done.’
The poem for which he has become most well-known, First They Came, was also written in this post-war period. Niemöller gave many lectures on a world tour in 1947, which included his poem, leading to several slightly different versions. He was one of the few to speak out quickly, and say that the German people should accept responsibility for the murders of six million Jewish people during the Holocaust. This opinion was often not well received in Germany at the time.
Niemöller remained a controversial figure for the rest of his life. The revelation that he wrote to the German Navy in 1938 and 1941, volunteering for military service during his imprisonment, damaged his reputation. Nevertheless, his lengthy imprisonment at Sachsenhausen and Dachau made Niemöller a symbol of Christian opposition to the Nazi regime. After the war, he travelled the world, becoming a popular figure due to his speeches sharing the German experience of life under the Nazis. He died on 6 March 1984, aged 92 in Wiesbaden, near Frankfurt.
Niemöller’s poem has inspired people across the world to speak up for others when they face discrimination – but his personal history is complex. His story is a reminder that people often do not fall neatly into a category of ‘good’ or ‘bad’, and we must learn from experiences like his to understand how the Holocaust happened.
___________
First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a socialist.
Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a trade unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.
______________
T**** is evil, Satan personified?, a psycho who is causing world-wide upheaval.
Speak out against him, every chance you get. Maybe the message will get through to those AmeriKans who need to reconsider to whom they have given support in hopes of improving their lives.
T**** is evil, Satan personified, a psycho…any support you think of giving him, should be seriously re-evaluated and reviewed.
T**** is the devil of our world today.
___________
Read Pastor Niemoller’s full story at –> PASTOR
AmeriKan political leaders once thought, Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, were sacrosanct pillars of AmeriKan society. They’ve been known so since the 1980s seen as the “third rail” of politics — touch them and you’re dead. AmeriKa has changed. Steer clear or risk your political life, or so it was thought before T**** and his clan in Congress came to power. Now, despite past promises from T****, all bets are off.
cleaning the swamp and draining AmeriKa of its impoverished and disabled
T**** said time and again on the campaign trail to trust him, entitlements were safe. After he was elected, he promised to “love and cherish” Medicaid. As recently as February 18, he reiterated that pledge to Sean Hannity on Fox “News.” “It’s going to be strengthened but won’t be touched. Medicare, Medicaid, none of that stuff is going to be touched.”
A day later, on social media, T**** reversed himself, endorsing the Republican House budget plan that included a directive for the Energy and Commerce Committee to find $880 million in cuts. Most or all of those cuts are likely to come from Medicaid. “The House Resolution implements my FULL America First Agenda,” T**** wrote on Truth Social.
He’s a lying psycho
T**** can’t have it both ways. Enabled by his MAGA brethren in Congress, the new administration is looking for $1.5 trillion in savings over the next decade. According to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, this cannot be accomplished unless cuts are made to entitlement programs, specifically Medicaid, at least to start.
How important is Medicaid?
Medicaid is designed specifically to help Americans most in need — who also have the least political clout. The program provides health insurance to more than 72 million poor and disabled Americans. Eighty percent of poor children (and 39% of all American children) get insurance through Medicaid. It also provides coverage for 63% of nursing home residents and 41% of adults with disabilities and pays for 41% of all births.
The federal government and state governments share the cost of Medicaid coverage currently, though the federal government shoulders considerably more of the costs than the states. Any federal cuts will mean states will either have to reduce coverage or raise taxes to make up the budget shortfall.
A brief aside: The most economically disadvantaged Americans live disproportionately in red (Republican dominated) states. Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, and Texas have the highest poverty rates in the country. So any cuts to Medicaid will affect these deep red states the most.
[Some material from Dan Rather, retired news broadcaster]
This is serious stuff, or as Jean Chretien said, “I’m not joking!”
It’s bully T**** vs Prime Minister ????
If Carney is donning on the Prime Ministerial cap, he better get it in gear damn fast. Pyscho T**** doesn’t wait for anyone. He believes he rules the world. He rules AmeriKa right now either by the snail’s pace at which the legal safeguards of AmeriKa are launched or because there are no controls.
No matter what, TorStar columnist David Olive may be right in calling for 200% tariff response from Canada. We haven’t got the arsenal AmeriKa has so lets combine our 35 million pea shooters and start spitting at the madman. The Amerikan people, collatoral damage. We don’t hate them, never have, never will. Be cautious to avoid equating psycho with the AmeriKan people. They made a mistake electing him…and they are beginning to see it now. We’re all stuck with the whacko for 4 more years. Work like hell to prevent him from doing more damage to AmeriKan democracy.
Read David Olive, TorStar: OLIVE
________________
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is an initiative established by President Donald Trump in January, 2025, through an executive order. It was created with the goal of reducing federal spending and modernizing government technology. Elon Musk, a prominent tech billionaire and advisor to President Trump, is involved with DOGE, although his exact role is disputed, with the White House denying he has authority to make government decisions.
DOGE aims to implement reforms to the federal government:
It has been tasked with embedding “DOGE Teams” into federal agencies to achieve these goals.
How is DOGE a Danger to Democracy?
DOGE poses several threats to democracy in the United States:
DOGE is a threat to democratic governance due to its perceived disregard for constitutional processes and its potential to undermine the accountability and transparency that are foundational to democracy in the USA.
For some reason I cannot shake the image of Conservative leader Poilievre being another sycophant, yes man, who is a member of the T**** camp in AmeriKa.
Not long ago, he was calling for the defunding and dismantling of the CBC, our national broadcasting network.
The CBC has been recognized the world over for objective and accurate news reporting. It is ranked as comparable to other highly regarded news agencies and it is one which we tout as being a fair and honest reporter of the news. Many Canadians rely on the network as their news source. They are right in doing so.
Additionally, the CBC adds to the unification of the nation. They broadcast from every region of Canada and reach out to each with their broadcasts.
Poilievre is sooooo wrong ! His promise to defund the CBC is a major reason why he will never get the vote of any loyal and patriotic Canadian.
___________________
Read the TorStar column: ” Canadians Need Public Media They Can Rely On ”
___________________
Recently, I received more donations from site visitors.
Thank you very much everyone. I am very appreciative of your generosity and consideration of my publications, most notably my website, 
.
Thank you.
He doesn’t believe in vaccines. He doesn’t believe in innoculations. He wants to eliminate medical procedures that use vaccination and innoculation. Measles outbreaks across the USA and Canada are simply ignored. So what happens to the guy….T**** gets him appointed as the Secretary of Health.
The country is nuts. The majority of its people have slipped off the deep end mentally. The country’s elders, journalists and experienced new reporters are claiming that there’s push back finally starting. Where? What kind? Really? Show me.
Appointing nutbar Robert Kennedy as Secretary of Health aint push back in my books…it’s just more of the mad house policy making in the assh*le T**** White House.
People just want to stay at home, shop from home, have food delivered to the home…it’s a different world. It may have been high prices, or reduced selection, or the inconvenience of getting dressed and driving over to the mall to shop at the store, or maybe society just got lazy.
The Hudson’s Bay Company has bit the dust, succumbed to the digital daggers of the deadly online world. In a short while, HBC will be closing more than half its 80 stores across Canada, putting hundreds if not thousands more people into the ranks of the unemployed.
Nothing can be done about it or the Bay would have tried it. They probably did. Cut their prices to the bone, unpacked every item they had in warehouses. To no avail. People just don’t shop like that anymore.
The speeches at the recent Liberal Party Leadership convention exalted Canadians for being strong, being determined and being supportive of their country. The reality is Canadians may be patriotic and passionate about their country but they aren’t shopping as before. The digital world has or is killing the old tyme stores. One by one, each is falling, like dominoes, Sears, Simpsons, Eatons and now the Bay.
Bezos has delivered the blows. We buy online. We buy at Amazon. Our fingers do the walking. We ‘re sorry to see you go Hudson’s Bay.
On behalf of the City of Pickering and its Members of Council, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mark Carney, prime minister-designate, on his election as Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada.
As one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities, Pickering is eager to partner with the Government of Canada to navigate this unprecedented political-economic crisis, while strengthening our nation and making it more resilient. I wish you success in rallying the country towards a united, elbows-up, Team Canada approach.
In addition to job creation and infrastructure investment, we must finalize a new, modernized fiscal framework for municipalities and their residents, as I had recently proposed to Premier Ford. As we brace for the challenges of this trade war, I urge you to remain steadfast in protecting our environment and preserving Canada’s renowned quality of life.
As such, I ask your government to work with the City of Pickering and provincial counterparts to establish a tri-party funding agreement for the acquisition of Frenchman’s Bay in Pickering. Securing this vital natural asset will ensure it is returned to the public domain and permanently safeguarded from unwanted development.
Kevin Ashe
Mayor, City of Pickering
Retired Prime Minister Jean Chretien gave the speech of his life at the Liberal Leadership convention, Sunday, Mar. 9, 2025
The 91-year-old was outstanding in his emotion, in what he said and in his delivery. Yes, his speech was written by others, but he delivered it, delivered it with emotion, passion and energy that even T****, a dozen years younger, can’t touch, can’t duplicate and can’t emulate.
Bravo Msr. Chretien…Canadians are very proud of you. You’re one of our best.
Read the full text of his speech or
View the speech… Click -> CHRETIEN
_________________
Prime Minister Trudeau, President of the party, Ministers, Deputy Ministers and MPs. Good evening.
This is an exceptional opportunity for me to be here this evening. This is my ninth Liberal convention that I’ve participated in. And it’s the seventh time that I’ve spoken at the podium. I would have never thought that I could do it at ninety-one.
I’m still ready to fight.
I have fight in me yet. It’s great to see so many young people in the room today. It reminds me of my first Liberal convention when I was the president of the Young Liberals at Laval University. In 1958, when Lester Pearson was elected Liberal leader. In 1958, not many of you were born, and he then became a very good prime minister.
I have kept coming to Liberal conventions for sixty-eight years. I have kept coming back because of what the Liberal Party stands for. I have kept coming back because of what the Liberal Party has delivered to make the lives of Canadians better.
And I am here today because it is the Liberal Party that can best deliver better lives for Canadians in the days, weeks, months, and years ahead.
Liberal Party Achievements
It is the Liberal Party that has given Canadians
The party is the party of diversity, equality, tolerance, openness, and inclusiveness.
We Liberals call it the very essence of Canada, and it is the Liberal Party that gave us the Red Maple Leaf flag sixty years ago, which flew so proudly in homes across the country on the 14th of February to demonstrate our patriotism and love for Canada.
Tribute to Justin Trudeau
I want to say a special thank you to former Prime Ministers Joe Clark, Harper, Martin, Campbell for coming together with me to rally Canadians across the land to show the Canadian flag with pride. But tonight, I want to pay tribute to Justin Trudeau.
I want to pay tribute to him for taking the Liberal Party from third place to government and to three successive election victories. I want to pay tribute to what he and his team have accomplished: the Canada Child Benefit to reduce poverty for children, the $10-a-day childcare that opened the labor market to so many women, the dental plan for low-income Canadians, and all the work they’ve done on the environment. Ladies and gentlemen, these are Liberal policies.
Economic Reality
Let’s talk about the economic reality of the moment. Canada has the lowest deficit per capita in the G7 – more than five times lower than the United States. We have the lowest debt per capita in the G7. Payments on debt interest today are only 11% of each tax dollar, compared to 35% when I took office in 1993. Inflation is 1.9% in Canada – it’s 3.2% and increasing south of the border.
Addressing the Tariff Crisis
Now let’s talk about the elephant in the room. The long and fruitful friendship with the Americans – built over decades – is falling apart before our eyes. Mutual respect, trust, and reciprocal cooperation are giving way to weariness and open hostility from the Trump administration.
Why? Historians and experts are trying to make sense of something that doesn’t make sense. Well, in Canada, our elbows are up. We’re working together to unite against this threat to our economy and sovereignty – our very existence as a country.
Tariffs became a reality this week, and there will only be losers if measured financially. But for Canadians, it’s more than money at stake. We love our country and our independence. We love who we are because we’re unique in the world.
I congratulate the Trudeau government and all premiers for retaliating against unjustified tariffs. If necessary, governments can go further by imposing export taxes on oil, gas, potash, steel, aluminum, and electricity. We’ll use that money to build infrastructure – like a natural gas pipeline from Alberta to Quebec.
Historical Warning to Trump
The world has lived for 80 years with a rules-based order that brought peace and prosperity. Now Donald Trump has decided to throw it all out the window.
Let me give him a history lesson:
In 1776, Benjamin Franklin spent a year in Montreal trying to convince people to join the American Revolution. The Francophones said non – look what happened to French in Louisiana!
During the War of 1812, Americans came to Canada on a mission of conquest. They were defeated by Colonel de Salaberry in Quebec and Indigenous Chief Tecumseh in Ontario. And I’m told some burned the White House at that time – but I didn’t do it! [Laughter]
Direct Message to Trump
From one old guy to another old guy: Stop this nonsense! Canada will never join the United States. My mother taught me good manners – she’d have been ashamed if I treated anyone the way Trump treated our prime minister.
We don’t want to become American because our values are different. Healthcare here is a right. America is a melting pot; Canada is a mosaic. In the U.S., First Nations aren’t recognized, and French would have no rights. We will never, ever trade our culture and language for any agreement!
Closing Remarks
I’m confident the next prime minister will work with premiers, opposition leaders, and allies worldwide to meet Trump’s challenges.
Canada is the country that works best – much better than any other. To quote an old Liberal: “Canada is, and will remain, the best country in the world. Vive le Canada!”
_______________
The madman in the White House takes another step toward eroding democacy and dividing AmeriKan society.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are political and social initiatives aimed at rectifying the claimed systemic inequalities through policies promoting representation and fair treatment across identities. In the U.S., DEI efforts face polarizing debates: discrimination vs. meritocracy.
Szpin summary
DEI based hiring practices aim lean on selection from what has been categorized as traditionally discriminated groups. Hence, the goal is to hire more from that pool of candidates than from the traditional non-minority groups. Opponents of DEI argue that it is reverse discrimination penalizing non-minority groups and violating the principle of hiring on the basis of meritocracy.
Key Benefits
Major Criticisms
U.S. Context
The 2023 Supreme Court decision against race-conscious admissions and T****-era federal DEI rollbacks reflect deepening partisan divides. Public opinion splits sharply along political lines: 72% of Republicans associate DEI with “reverse racism” vs. 68% of Democrats viewing it as essential for fairness.
Path Forward
Experts recommend depoliticizing DEI through evidence-based reforms and merit-inclusive models to balance equity goals with operational practicality.
________________
Szpin comments:
T**** opposes DEI claiming it is discriminatory and his position has influenced AmeriKan corpoations into removing DEI practices from their corporate hiring processes.
In the early months of T****’s second term, his administration launched a concerted effort to dismantle DEI programs across federal agencies and private enterprises. Framing these initiatives as “discriminatory” and “radical,” T*** signed executive orders targeting DEI practices and encouraged private companies to follow suit. While some corporations have resisted this pressure, others have significantly rolled back their DEI commitments in response to political, legal, and cultural shifts. Below is a list of five major American corporations that have scaled back DEI initiatives in alignment with the pyscho in the White House:
Walmart
Amazon
McDonald’s
Meta (Facebook)
Citigroup bank
Here are the major steps Herr Schnapps T**** has taken to erode AmeriKan democrary as of March 8:
Artificial Intelligence is a very useful tool but…take information from it. Don’t give it information. Handle AI with care. Be skeptical about what information it may ask of you. Deal with it as cautiously as you would with Scammers and Fraud artists.
However, make use of it as it can do many constructive and positive tasks for you, efficiently, productively and practically.
Writers
Writers may benefit from AI most quickly as AI will do writing tasks quickly and efficiently. Ask AI clear and concise prompts regarding your writing needs and you will receive useful responses within moments.
Problem solving
AI can problem solve, analyze and evaluate. It will do these jobs well when asked clear and concisely posed questions.
Limitations
AI is developing and growing in capability every day. Its limitations seem to be diminishing with each development. Just weeks ago, it would not access the Internet, would not deal with personal matters, steered away from offensive language but with each week, the safeguard rails are diminished and AI does more things with minimal if any restrictions.
AI Sources
Use your browser to search for AI sources for your computer. Download and install as directed when you have found an AI source in which you are interested. Test it out for a few weeks, giving it various tasks. Learn how to use it, benefit from it and evaluate its value to you and your computer work.
___________________
I use PERPLEXITY and to access it, click -> PERPLEXITY
______________
If you have more questions contact me at zippyonego@gmail.com
______________
T**** keeps maligning us. And to his calling Trudeau, ‘Governor’…how about ‘Up yours con man, felon, rapist, sexist, misogynist, grifter, bigot, bully and troll.’
Migrants (irregular entry in 2024):
Fentanyl (seized in 2024):
Illegal Guns (2024):
Former President of Poland, Lech Walesa,
wrote the following letter to Trump.
______________________________________
Your Excellency, Mr. President,
We watched the report of your conversation with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, with fear and distaste. We find it insulting that you expect Ukraine to show respect and gratitude for the material assistance provided by the United States in its fight against Russia. Gratitude is owed to the heroic Ukrainian soldiers who shed their blood in defense of the values of the free world. They have been dying on the front lines for more than 11 years in the name of these values and the independence of their homeland, which was attacked by Putin’s Russia.
We do not understand how the leader of a country that symbolizes the free world cannot recognize this.
Our alarm was also heightened by the atmosphere in the Oval Office during this conversation, which reminded us of the interrogations we endured at the hands of the Security Services and the debates in Communist courts. Prosecutors and judges, acting on behalf of the all-powerful communist political police, would explain to us that they held all the power while we held none. They demanded that we cease our activities, arguing that thousands of innocent people suffered because of us. They stripped us of our freedoms and civil rights because we refused to cooperate with the government or express gratitude for our oppression. We are shocked that President Volodymyr Zelensky was treated in the same manner.
The history of the 20th century shows that whenever the United States sought to distance itself from democratic values and its European allies, it ultimately became a threat to itself. President Woodrow Wilson understood this when he decided in 1917 that the United States must join World War I. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt understood this when, after the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941, he resolved that the war to defend America must be fought not only in the Pacific but also in Europe, in alliance with the nations under attack by the Third Reich.
We remember that without President Ronald Reagan and America’s financial commitment, the collapse of the Soviet empire would not have been possible. President Reagan recognized that millions of enslaved people suffered in Soviet Russia and the countries it had subjugated, including thousands of political prisoners who paid for their defense of democratic values with their freedom. His greatness lay, among other things, in his unwavering decision to call the USSR an “Empire of Evil” and to fight it decisively. We won, and today, the statue of President Ronald Reagan stands in Warsaw, facing the U.S. Embassy.
Mr. President, material aid—military and financial—can never be equated with the bloodshed in the name of Ukraine’s independence and the freedom of Europe and the entire free world. Human life is priceless; its value cannot be measured in money. Gratitude is due to those who sacrifice their blood and their freedom. This is self-evident to us, the people of Solidarity, former political prisoners of the communist regime under Soviet Russia.
We call on the United States to uphold the guarantees made alongside Great Britain in the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, which established a direct obligation to defend Ukraine’s territorial integrity in exchange for its relinquishment of nuclear weapons. These guarantees are unconditional—there is no mention of treating such assistance as an economic transaction.
Signed,
Lech Wałęsa,
former political prisoner,
former President of Poland
Eileen Workman
Eileen Workman is an author and essayist, who previously spent 16 years in the financial industry as First Vice President of Investments at a major Wall Street firm, until she had a spiritual awakening and left that field. She has worked with Trump, and now offers this about him:
——————————
“I know a little something that so many do not appreciate about Donald Trump, but that those of us who worked with him in the financial services game have known for many decades—long before he ever made a run at national politics.
His stated motives rarely reveal his true agenda. His showmanship and charisma bedazzles the uninformed, which is exactly how he likes it. He never signed a contract or met an agreement he wouldn’t violate or wriggle out of if it suited his hidden agenda. He never met an investor whose purse he didn’t consider his own in some strategic way. And he never met a human being he wouldn’t screw in order to advance or satisfy himself.
If you want to understand his beef with Panama, don’t look at the canal to which he now points. Look at Trump enterprises and their fraught financial and criminal relationship with Panama, and look to the Russian oligarchs who bought condos in his Panama Tower. If you want to understand his fixation with Gaza, don’t look at the Palestinian or Israeli people; look at the real estate value he now perceives that Gaza holds, and he’d like to unlock. If you want to understand his insane, obsessive beef with energy renewable windmills, don’t look at the wind energy aspect; look at his beef with Scotland over his golf course and the nearby windmills that damaged his idea of its aesthetics.
If you want to understand his irrational hatred of Obama, don’t look at the policies of the Obama administration; look to the annual press corp dinner where Obama poked fun at him and bruised his ego. If you want to understand his demonization of Democrats, look not to Democratic social policy, but to the fact they didn’t want him to run under color of their party. If you want to understand his hatred of “immigrants” don’t look to the actual contributions and challenges related to immigration, but to his own germophobia and personal disgust for all things “dirty and brown.
What he does SO masterfully, as many sociopaths do, is figure out how to align, however temporarily, his own personal agenda with the drives of those he can then USE to help him execute it.
And the GOP fell right in line with that abusive strategy. The GOP now looks much like a battered wife who would love to quit Trump, but who also knows their financial security, personal comfort, and social status would collapse if they ran away. And they fear they won’t get much sympathy or support from the people who tried to warn them not to marry the dude—a serial, liar, cheater, thief, sadist, and a generally Bad Person.
Many of the GOP politicians today are busily masking their own abuse from the general public; at some point, however, as they watch their power continue to erode, their reputations get smashed, and themselves get blamed for the extensive abuse they now suffer, something’s gonna give.
“I don’t know what it is, but every bone in my body feels an energetic convergence heading toward a massive, MASSIVE explosion—coming soon.”
Here’s the official list of American products now affected by the 25 per cent tariffs imposed by the Canadian government as a counter-measure to the U.S. tariffs:
American tariffs imposed on Canadian exports to the US can cause Canadian prices to increase through several mechanisms:
US tariffs on Canadian exports can ultimately lead to higher prices for Canadian consumers across various sectors of the economy by impacting trade flows, exchange rates, and production costs.
The psycho in the AmeriKan White House has created a whole new industry of news checkers. These fact-checking organizations provide thorough analyses of President Donald T****’s statements.
Here are the links to the best of these news checkers:
I would suggest you try 2 or 3 so you can determine which you like best. I also suggest having a couple that you can rely on to save yourself time and energy.
Executive orders give the president a lot of power. He can enact policies and directives at his discretion but executive orders are subject to control, financial and judicial, by Congress and by the courts. They are powerful presidential tools but they are not dictatorial in power.
A fuller explanation of Executive orders
Presidential executive orders are official directives issued by the President of the United States to manage the operations of the federal government. They are a powerful tool that allows presidents to quickly implement policies without needing approval from Congress.
A simple breakdown of executive orders:
Executive orders are a powerful tool BUT they are not permanent and can be changed by future presidents or challenged through legal means.
PROTECTION against dictatorship:
Executive orders can be overturned by Congress, but the process is not straightforward.
How Congress can challenge executive orders:
Executive orders cannot override federal laws and statutes. The system of checks and balances ensures that no single branch of government becomes too powerful. While Congress has the authority to challenge executive orders, the process is complex and often subject to political considerations.
Conservative Bethlenfalvy
21,976 votes 19,208
48 per cent 44 %
Liberal Ibrahim Daniyal
18,805 votes 12,345
28% 39%
NDP Khalid Ahmed
6,934 3,281
16% 7%
Green Party Julia Rondinone Mini Batra
2,226 1,302
5% 3%
Google extensions are handy little applets that are built to do a variety of additional jobs with Google Chrome browser.
Among my favourite:
POWER THESAURUS
My writing is much better because I use this applet to replace overused words or words that miss the mark. Click, type, and a list of replacement words appears instantly. A marvellous tool for a writer.
SPEED DIAL 2
I am all over the map, internet wise, when I research. Some places I want to remember so I can revisit them. Enter extension SPEED DIAL 2, an applet that allows me to save all my visited websites that I wanted to remember and retain them in customized groups with a thumbnail image to help me recall the site. Another marvellous tool in Chrome for computer users.
MANAGE EXTENSIONS
This is an extension that helps me find extensions easily and quickly. It also keeps an inventory of the extensions I have allowing me to display them or just put them on a shelve for access at another time. A very useful housekeeping extension for my extensions use.
Read our March 2025 issue
At your town halls, when questions are asked, often people do not understand what is being asked because of noise, or accent, or volume the ask,…so not everyone understands the question. To help more people understand, I recommend that you repeat the question or paraphrase it so everybody hears one clear, concise question.
This procedure will make every question clearer and understandable. If they don’t understand you, you will be able to deal with it easily.
Your town halls are a great service to Pickering residents. Too bad not enough people attend. May I also suggest a larger venue than a coffee shop so more people can be accommodated….the central library!
Thanks…good luck…..I hope many people have learn about this upcoming town hall and respond accordingly.
Best,
Richard
TO DIE FOR
David Baldacci
__________________
Synopsis
Travis Devine has become a pro at adapting to any situation to accomplish the mission set in front of him. Whether it’s a high-powered corporate setting or small-town community, Devine will become the man for the job. His time as an Army Ranger and on the financial battlefields of Wall Street gave him the skills he needed, and he’s put them to good use. But this time it’s not his skills that send him to Seattle to aid the FBI in escorting orphaned, twelve-year-old Betsy Odom to a meeting with her uncle, who’s under investigation for RICO charges. Instead, he’s hoping to lie low and keep off the radar of an enemy that he evaded on a train in Switzerland and who has been after him ever since—the girl on the train.
But as Devine gets to know Betsy, questions begin to arise around the death of her parents. Betsy is adamant that they had never used drugs, but the police in the small rural town where they died insist the Odoms died of an overdose. Devine starts digging for answers, and what he finds points to a conspiracy bigger than he could’ve ever imagined. The question is, how do Betsy, her uncle, and various government agencies all fit into it.
It might finally be time for Devine and the girl on the train to come face-to-face, and when that happens, Devine is going to find himself unsure of who are his allies and who are his enemies. And in some cases, they might well be both.
Richard says
Standard Baldacci fare…polished, well developed, original.
There’s nothing outstanding about this book. But, as it is written by one of the finest writers of our time, it is a good story with enough twists and turns to keep a reader entertained and engaged.
Baldacci is always satisfying to read and this book maintains that expectation. A good read.
This category lists posts, articles and researched material dealing with computers.
For more information, contact Richard at zippyonego@gmail.com
Dear Friends,
As we enter into March and the spring season, I want to take a moment to reflect on the past month.
February was a month filled with reflection, celebration, and education as we honoured Black History Month. February served as an opportunity to recognize the immense contributions of Black Canadians, both past and present, who have shaped our history, culture, and communities in profound ways. Whether through historical education, cultural celebrations, or community events, it was heartening to see how many of us came together to learn and celebrate the achievements and experiences of Black Canadians.
February will also be remembered as one of the most challenging winters we’ve had here in Pickering and across Ontario. The heavy snowfall we’ve faced over the past few weeks has certainly tested us all, but thanks to the tireless efforts of our Operations staff, our roads, sidewalks, and public facilities have been kept clear, ensuring everyone could stay safe and mobile. It’s no easy task, and I truly appreciate all their hard work and dedication in making sure our City stays accessible, no matter the weather.
As we enter March, I’d like to extend a special invitation to you all for my Coffee with Kevin, back by popular demand! Join me on Wednesday, March 19, at 6:00 PM at Trebilcock Coffee Roasters (1035 Toy Ave #19), a local business that is redefining the Canadian coffee landscape with their next-level Farm-to-Cup experience. I’d love to catch up with you, hear your thoughts, and share what’s happening in our City. Limited spots are available so please RSVP at coffeewithkev.eventbrite.com.
As we step into spring, let’s continue to embrace the energy and optimism of the season. I look forward to connecting with you all, and I’m excited for the great things ahead!
As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office at mayor@pickering.ca or 905.420.4600. Also, I encourage you to stay up to date on the latest news in Pickering by subscribing to my newsletter if you haven’t already.
Yours Truly,
Kevin Ashe
Mayor, City of Pickering
Mayor and Councillors are giving in to Lisa Robinson out of exasperation and apprehension. Robinson has disrupted Council meetings endless with exaggerations, unsubstantiated accusation and outright bullyish tactics. She has no respect for peers, colleagues or other people making exaggerated remarks and outright untrue statements as she offends and insults. There is no structured legal means of removing her from council which would be wrong as she is an elected representative. But like T**** of the US, some voter remorse is growing. Since she cannot be removed from council by any legal means, Mayor Ashe should use the power of muting the mike and blanking the camera whenever she refuses to abide by the rules of debate and meeting etiquette. Caution her first, clearly and emphatically and then shut her down if she will not abide by the rules. Silenced and off camera for the duration of the meeting.
What the Mayor has chosen to do is comparable to the tail wagging the dog. Robinson is too often self-centred, self-interested and in disregard of all others. That tail should be controlled as any bully should be.
This was a difficult, but necessary decision to protect our staff from continued mistreatment and uphold our duty as an employer to maintain a harassment-free workplace, as mandated by the province’s Occupational Health and Safety Act. Equally as important, we are sending a strong message to Councillor Robinson that all employees deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.
Over the past year, and as recently as the February 24, 2025 Council Meeting, Councillor Robinson has repeatedly violated the Council Code of Conduct, with multiple findings directly related to her ongoing misrepresentation of facts and baseless allegations of corruption. Rather than taking accountability, her behaviour has only escalated, marked by persistent bullying, malicious public attacks, and the defamation of our valued employees.
Before staff attendance at Committee and Council meetings resumes, consideration will be given to the structure of meeting chairs for both Standing Committees and Council, to ensure that decorum is maintained and the rules of procedure are enforced. In the meantime, Council and Committee Members may continue to contact the appropriate staff in advance of the meetings to address any questions regarding reports on the meeting agenda.
We hope this approach will protect staff from further abuse while also preventing them from being exploited in Councillor Robinson’s deliberately inflammatory videos, which distort facts and present information out of context to incite outrage and boost her online engagement at their expense.
Can You Control Your Swearing?
I believe that a person reveals their true colours when they lose their temper. To some degree this is likely true for all of us. Do you make an effort to use discretion before dropping the F-bomb in public in any of its popular forms? Does the same apply to other forms of profanity ?
I do but it seems I’m in the minority. I left that behind in school. There’s a time and a place for everything but I’d prefer profanity not be used any time. It’s a matter of self-discipline which can be difficult for many people – not just with swearing, but also with dieting, saving for the future, exercise and more. Personally I don’t get it. Grow up! As adults we can choose to swear. My choice is not to – unless the setting is appropriate, or I am EXTREMELY angry. Even then I feel guilty.
For some it seems that once they escaped parental influence and rules, they felt the need to rebel taking pleasure in breaking past taboos. In my youth we were chastised for even saying “hell” or “damn”. I only heard my father drop the F-bomb once or twice, and he thought he was alone at the time or that he was out of earshot. My mother never used it.
The problem (or NOT a problem depending on your view) is that unless you look around, you never know who is within earshot when speaking or shouting in public. The same applies to public figures in modern media. They have no idea who their audience might include. Such language is offensive to many seniors and it’s inappropriate for young kids. I wonder if people who swear freely in public do the same at home in front of their own kids, or if they impose different rules.
In the popular reality TV show about the Osbournes, the family went out of their way to be foul mouthed. Sadly I think that was why people tuned in. But let’s be real – the entire thing was staged. At least if you didn’t like it, you could turn it off or not tune in. In live performances or one-time specials, audiences don’t know what is coming.
I am occasionally guilty of swearing – especially with friends in a small group drinking beer or playing golf. But every morning at a local coffee shop I hear profanity in almost every sentence from some people. It is also common in public places like stores and buses. I feel that it’s completely out of place for leaders in our government, especially when being broadcast to massive audiences. Most national leaders avoid it – good for them. I am not a Trump fan but despite his relentless trash talk, I’ve never heard him drop the F-bomb.
Think of some of the funniest people on TV over the years, both men and women. They never relied on swearing for laughs. Perhaps they relaxed their discipline at a private club but not on a world stage. The networks would not have allowed it. Today even that has changed. The most notorious perpetrators simply sound pathetic and desperate. Some entertainers can’t get through a performance without resorting to potty mouth. Bill Maher is a prime example. It’s too bad because is very clever without it.
If this makes me a prude or an elitist, so be it. I slip occasionally though rarely in public. That said, I frequently use religious references in anger which probably offends some people too. When I am alone I swear all the time in self-anger – stub my toe, break a dish etc. Unfortunately my spouse hears it and even more rarely she might swear in anger too – but never in public.
Like many aspects of decorum – morals, standards, tact, and good taste – this is one seems to be disappearing. Sad.
Recently, P.C. David Jung, Durham Regional Police, gave a presentation about SCAMS and FRAUD. Here is a report of his presentation.
Online scams and phone fraud
Presented by Durham Regional Police Constable David Jung
Online scams and phone fraud have become increasingly sophisticated in recent years, posing significant risks to individuals and businesses alike. As technology advances, so do the methods employed by scammers to deceive and exploit unsuspecting victims.
Common Types of Online Scams and Phone Fraud
Phishing Scams
Phishing scammers impersonate legitimate organizations through emails, text messages, or fake websites to trick victims into revealing sensitive information such as passwords, credit card details, or Social Insurance numbers. These messages often create a sense of urgency, claiming that immediate action is required to avoid account suspension or other consequences.
Impersonator Scams
Fraudsters may pose as government agencies, Canada Revenue agents, law enforcement, family members, or trusted businesses to manipulate victims into providing personal information or money. These scams can be particularly convincing when scammers use spoofing techniques to make their calls appear to come from legitimate sources.
AI Voice and Video Cloning Scams
Advancements in artificial intelligence have given rise to a new breed of scams involving voice and video cloning. Scammers can now create highly realistic audio and video content that mimics the voices and appearances of loved ones, often depicting them in distress and requesting financial assistance.
Telemarketing and Retail Scams
Unsolicited calls offering products, services, or investment opportunities are common avenues for fraud. Scammers may use high-pressure tactics to convince victims to make immediate purchases or investments, often with false promises of significant returns or exclusive deals.
Grandparent Scams
This type of fraud targets older adults by exploiting their concern for family members. Scammers pretend to be grandchildren in urgent need of money, often claiming to be in legal trouble or involved in accidents.
Defending Against Online Scams and Phone Fraud
Strengthen Your Digital Security
Verify and Validate
Protect Your Personal Information
Educate Yourself and Stay Informed
Use Technology to Your Advantage
Trust Your Instincts
If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your gut feeling when something doesn’t feel right, and don’t be afraid to end communications or transactions that make you uncomfortable.
Report Suspicious Activity
If you encounter a potential scam or become a victim of fraud, report it to the appropriate authorities. In Durham and Pickering Police, phone 905 579 1520:
Conclusion
As online scams and phone fraud continue to evolve, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting yourself and your loved ones. By implementing strong security measures, staying informed about the latest fraud techniques, and adopting a cautious approach to unsolicited communications, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to these malicious activities. Remember that prevention is key, and when in doubt, always verify before taking action or sharing sensitive information.
Richard Szpin BOTTOM LINE
Source:
Richard Szpin, www.szpin.ca
AGM Report
The RCRA (Rougemont Community & Recreation Assoc.) held its first annual general meeting recently.
For more information confer with the RCRA website
How to go to sleep fast (and stay down for the night)
GQ, Emily Abbate
Even a well-rested person can take 15 or 20 minutes to fall asleep. If your falling asleep takes longer than that, it may be time to analyze what other behaviours or factors could be impacting your shut-eye. If you’re constantly fighting with yourself over getting—and staying—asleep, then here are 11 tips that will improve your falling asleep and help you sleep better.
Look at your typical week. When do you have to be up earliest? Then, count back your sleep time. If that’s seven hours, wonderful. Count back seven hours, a little bit of time, and then add 20 or 30 minutes to relax and unwind. That’s your target fall-asleep time.
Bottom line
Getting to sleep and sleeping soundly are unattainable. If these healthy nocturnal benefits are not in your sleep pattern, you might consider incorporating the above 11 suggestions, if not all of them, as many as you can. Try adding in additional ones every few nights until you have established a good sleep routine and environment that gives you a solid night’s sleep in a short period of time.
Sweet dreams!
Ontario is a member of FireSmart Canada along with the other Canadian provinces and territories. While FireSmart Canada’s creation is recent (2021), prior to that the FireSmart program existed through an organization called Partners in Protection, which Ontario was also a member of, and had adopted back in 2004. While the western provinces do have fantastic FireSmart programs, Ontario also implements FireSmart Canada’s programming, by delivering training (for example) and educating communities, neighbourhoods and residents on how they can reduce their wildland fire risk, and increase their community resilience.
Although I am the only contact for Ontario included on FireSmart Canada’s webpage, we do have a fulsome FireSmart program as part of our Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services Branch (Ministry of Natural Resources), Mitigation and Partnerships Unit. These contacts are regionally based, to ensure that there is ample support for communities and individuals interested in learning more about the program.
Although I recognize it may be too late, I would ask that, rather than including my cell phone number, you direct individuals who are interested to: affes.mitigation@ontario.ca, our broader team monitors this inbox to ensure the most appropriate contact responds to each inquiry.
For more information on Ontario’s FireSmart program, please visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/firesmart
For more information on FireSmart Canada’s programming, please visit: https://firesmartcanada.ca/resources/
Talk about a lot of BS from the government….do any of these people know the meaning of succinct and to-the-point. Still here it is a summary of the Primary Care Action Plan as proposed by Dr. Jane Philpott:
Ontario’s Primary Care Action Plan, led by Dr. Jane Philpott, represents a transformative shift in the province’s approach to primary health care. Announced in October 2024, the plan aims to connect every Ontarian to a publicly funded family doctor or nurse practitioner within a primary care team by 2029. Backed by a historic $1.8 billion investment, the initiative seeks:
The plan addresses Canada’s primary care crisis—where 2.5 million Ontarians currently lack a regular provider.
Health Home Model: Universal Access Through Geographic Assignment
Reimagining Primary Care Delivery
Based on a Health Home model, the plan guarantees every resident access to a primary care team based on their geographic location.
Each Health Home functions as a “front door” to the health system offering:
comprehensive services through interprofessional teams that include family physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, social workers, and allied health professionals.
Periwinkle Model
The Periwinkle Model consolidates resources into:
Extend of the program: 305 new or expanded primary care teams, targeting 300,000 additional patients in 2025.
Funding and Workforce Expansion
Historic Investment in Primary Care
$1.8 billion allocation by government.
Training the Next Generation of Providers
The plan includes:
Implementation Strategy and Timelines
Phased Rollout and Waitlist Elimination
By 2026, the government aims:
Collaboration Across Sectors
Success hinges on unprecedented collaboration between academia, hospitals, community health centers, and Indigenous health organizations.
Challenges and Criticisms
Systemic Barriers and Political Context
Critics note that Ontario’s primary care crisis stems from decades of underinvestment,
with aging providers and burnout exacerbating shortages.
Equity Considerations
Ongoing partnerships with Indigenous organizations and community health centers aim to ensure equitable access.
Conclusion: A Paradigm Shift in Canadian Health Care
Dr. Jane Philpott’s Primary Care Action Plan redefines universal health care in Canada by treating primary care as a public good. By guaranteeing attachment to a health home, Ontario could:
The success of this initiative will depend on sustained funding, interprofessional solidarity, and adaptive governance. If fully realized, it could serve as a blueprint for other provinces, advancing Canada toward a future where primary care access is universal, equitable, and patient-centered.
Hey Keenan,
Good column about snow removal or lack thereof in the City of Toronto. You cover the history of our snow situations very well and it is a column that implies a fair criticism of the City of Toronto’s poor snow removal operations.
As a columnist, you would not be doing justice to the the profession if you precised the lamentation into just 2 or 3 paragraphs. Your bottom line is spot on. Toronto could do a much better job at snow removal but it comes at a price. Leave it at that Ed. Mayor Chow is aware of your conclusion. Everyone everywhere is. However, there is only so much money in the kitty and these winter blasts not only test our budgets but they test our patience. It’s very valid to lament about the difficulties snow storms remnents cause for seniors, disabled, child carriage operators. Sad, agreed. However, asking for increased expenditures to cope with the snow problem may be unrealistic. Can’t you hear the woeful cries of the populace when we have a diminished snowfall winter.
In short, good to hear your reminder to the City to get shovelling and work harder to remove the snow…but it is what it is. Afterall, we live in Canada, eh !
J
ennifer O’Connell – not seeking re-election
Lisha Van Niewuwenhove, The Uxbrdge Cosmos
Jennifer O’Connell, member of parliament for Pickering-Uxbridge for the past 10 years, announced last Friday that she will not seek reelection in the next federal election.
“It has been an honour and a privilege to represent my community of Pickering-Uxbridge in the House of Commons, but I have made the difficult decision and informed the Prime Minister that I will not be seeking re-election for Member of Parliament in the next federal election.”
These words were part of a post on O’Connell’s Facebook page very recently, where she shared a three-page letter to her constituents that, along with recapping her political career, outlines some of the issues that led to her decision.
O’Connell writes that online attacks had increased in the past few years, “especially when misinformation and disinformation were spread that lead to threats of violence and threats of sexual violence,” and that this played a role in her decision to “seek a more private life.” She points out in the letter that it was not just her affected when the online abuse occurred; it was her team and family as well.
“I’ve had to worry about the safety of my staff at times, and I’ve had to make too many phone calls to my family letting them know they might see some concerning things but not to worry I am safe.” O’Connell does acknowledge in the letter that signing up for public office “comes with good and bad,” but expresses concern that, when physical safety for both herself and those she cares about comes into question, it was time for her to “seriously reflect on the risks and what was best for not just (her) own well-being but those who support this work as well.” She also addresses divisiveness in Canadian politics and expresses hope that politics will return to a “diversity of ideas and vigorous debates around policy and the best direction for this country.”
O’Connell began her political career almost 20 years ago, serving in Pickering, first as a city councillor, then regional councillor and deputy mayor, before becoming MP for Pickering-Uxbridge in 2015. During her time in Ottawa, O’Connell served as parliamentary secretary to several ministries, including Finance, Health, Infrastructure and Communities and Public Safety, Democratic Institutions, and Intergovernmental Affairs (Cybersecurity).
Her letter thanks many people, from her riding association to those who volunteered. She thanks Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, several other MPs, her “team,” and her family and friends. She closes her letter with, “Thank you once again to the people of Pickering-Uxbridge for your continued support. This has been the honour of my lifetime to serve our community, one that I am forever grateful to you all for.”
The federal Liberal party is seeking a new leader following Trudeau’s resignation earlier this year. Once the leadership contest is decided, a general federal election will likely be called later this year.
___________
Editorial comment
It is very sad to see Jennifer O’Connell’s departure from federal politics. Our nation is enriched when people like O’Connell devote and dedicate their lives to working on behalf of all Canadians. The office of a federal parliamentarian is a very challenging and difficult one, made even more so because he is a woman who must experience the misogyny that is too prevalent in our society. Too many women, too many women in public office, continue to experience mistreatment and abuse, denigrations which should be alien to our society today but are not.
Sadly the list of abused women in politics is too long. There are too many examples of good female candidates sacrificing so much only to be abused by the bullies and thugs of our society who are too free to offend, abuse and bully at will.
Jennifer, you will be missed, greatly and we can say we wish it weren’t so. We wish you the very best in your new endeavours and that your journey is a safe, secure and successful one.
God speed!
Best,
Richard
Claudia Scheinbaum, President of Mexico, tells T**** to f__ off.
______
Give this leader kudos for courage and bravado. When T**** said he was flying deportees into Mexico from the USA, she said, “No way, Jose (or assh*le)! ” or words to that effect and told him no American military transport planes would be allowed to land in Mexico unless they had received approval after following proper protocols. T**** doesnt know what proper protocols means. So the American plane transports are not landing in Mexico.
This government leader has bigger cajones than many of the male leaders throughout the world.
Bravo President Scheinbaum!
SMOLDER,
Brett Battles
Synopsis
In this latest adrenaline-fueled adventure in the #1 New York Times bestselling series, Stone Barrington faces his most vindictive threat yet.Finally enjoying some downtime in Santa Fe, Stone Barrington agrees to attend an art exhibit with a dear friend. There, he encounters an intriguing woman who is on the trail of a ring of art thieves. Always one to please, Stone offers his help.From Santa Fe to Los Angeles, it quickly becomes clear that her investigation has links to Stone—particularly to rare Matilda Stone art, his mother’s paintings. And when old grudges come to light, Stone is forced to reckon with a familiar enemy. Stone must act fast before whoever is out to get him finally closes in on him . . . for good.
Richard says
Stuart Woods died in 2022. He was the creator of the Stone Barrington series, murder-thriller stories written from the perspective of a well off traveller. His character dined at world renown restaurants, drank high class wine and whiskey and travelled in luxury, usually in a jet for Woods was a pilot with his own plane.
Woods’ first book, Chiefs, was unreservedly his best. Read my review in my books review section. His Stone Barrington books were consistently enjoyable reads. I liked reading them on my iPad as I could switch to maps or the Internet and browse the restaurants he was writing about and read their menus. They were actual places with real owners who, like all things, eventually passed away and died off. But the books remained.
Smolder by Battles is an attempt to continue the Barrington books. I feel it misses the mark for some reason. I cannot say exactly why but Woods’ books felt as if they had more atmosphere, more authenticity. Battles writes well but somehow his narration just seems to lack the feeling or atmosphere that Woods generated. I felt this way about Smolder before I even realized it was written by another writer and before I knew about Woods’ passing. The story just didn’t feel right. It did have the aura that Woods’ writing had. It didn’t have the atmosphere. You read the story and everything clicked or developed as it should but feeling just did right.
The book was a “miss ” for me. Acceptably written, decent plot, good development but not the right feeling. Too bad. I miss Woods…rest in peace big guy. Kind of reminds me of another great writer, though not professionally and only known by those who visited my website or read small town newspapers from northern Ontario. Rotzy, may he rest in peace too.
The history of food banks in Southern Ontario
From Emergency Help to Essential Support
Food banks in Ontario have evolved — they have gone from being a temporary fix during tough times to a crucial part of the community’s support system. What started as small-scale efforts to feed hungry families during recessions has turned into a massive network trying to keep up with rising demand. Even as they have grown bigger and more organized, food banks are still stuck dealing with the same core issues that made them necessary in the first place.
The Early Days: 1980s to 1990s
Born from Hard Times
Food banks were first established in Southern Ontario during the rough economic patches of the early ’80s. The Food Bank of Waterloo Region was created in 1984 as a “quick fix” for hunger caused by job losses. Around the same time, over in Renfrew County, locals held a community meeting in 1988 recognizing that nearly 1,000 residents needed help. These early efforts in Ontario were mirroring trends started in the USA, like John van Hengel, who started the very first food bank in Arizona in 1967.
Back then, these places were skeletal operations. The Waterloo food bank shared space at a local homeless shelter and started by helping five community groups. By 1988, they were moving over 280,000 pounds of food a year. Renfrew’s operation was even scrappier—they used an old plumbing warehouse helping 10–12 families a week at first. That number doubled in just a year. Everything depended on volunteers and whatever donations they could scrape together.
Growth and consolidation across Ontario
By the late ’80s, food banks realized they needed to work together. Nationwide efforts like the Canadian Association of Food Banks (now Food Banks Canada), formed in 1987 spilled over to provincial ones — the Ontario Association of Food Banks (OAFB) in 1992, (now called Feed Ontario.)
Then in 1995 the province slashed welfare by over 20% increasing food bank use grew by 30% almost overnight.
Food banks improve their organization: 2000s–2010s
Bigger Spaces, Better Systems
Food banks became more serious entities in the 2000. Waterloo’s operation moved to a proper warehouse in 2000, handling 2.8 million pounds of food yearly. Renfrew upgraded into an old military building where they could finally store fresh and frozen items. Food banks began using technology to up their game: databases like Link2Feed started tracking who needed help.
Food banks also started getting more creative with their food sourcing. Programs like Second Helping in Waterloo, started in 1998, rescued unsold groceries from stores, cutting waste while restocking their own shelves. Smaller food banks got a boost when Feed Ontario helped them get grants for basics like fridges and shelving in 2015.
New Faces, Same Old Problems
Even with these improvements, food banks kept seeing the same heartbreaking trends. By 2001, nearly half the people walking into Waterloo’s food bank were kids, and 1 in 5 families had pay cheques inadewuate to meeting family needs.
Then the 2008 financial crash hit. Food bank use in Ontario jumped a shocking 4,800% between 2001 – 2008. By 2005, over 24,000 people in Waterloo alone needed emergency food help. As Feed Ontario bluntly put it in 2022: food banks were never supposed to be permanent, but here we are.
Today’s Reality: 2020s and Beyond
Pandemic Chaos and Rising Prices
As in so much elsewhere, COVID-19 changed everything.
Oakville’s Fare Share Food Bank went from helping 350 families a month before the pandemic to 877 by late 2023, over half being first-timers. Province-wide, food bank use shot up again, up 134% between 2019 – 2024, hitting 7.7 million visits annually. Some places were overwhelmed. The Paris Salvation Army had to shut their doors temporarily in 2024 because they just ran out of food.
Why food bank use is increasing
What’s keeping food banks in existence? Here are the major reasons:
Creative Solutions
Food banks are working to reduce their dependenc. New projects like Feed Collaboration, started in 2023, moved nearly a million pounds of extra food from farms to food banks in its first year—that’s a 145% jump from before. Rural and urban areas are teaming up too, like Waterloo’s network sharing resources with 35 smaller towns. But the food banks are still falling behind the demand.
Time for real Change and real solutions
Southern Ontario’s food banks have done an incredible job, growing and adapting for over four decades. The fact that they now help working families, seniors, and newcomers and those numbers continue to grow confirms how broken the system really is. As Feed Ontario’s 2022 report put it, food banks are like a ‘Band-Aid on a bullet wound — they keep people alive but don’t fix why they’re bleeding.’
The bottom line
The big question now? Will we keep expanding food banks forever, or will we finally tackle the root causes like unaffordable housing and poor wages? To make food banks unnecessary, we need politicians, communities, and all of us to push for real solutions. Until then, these organizations will keep doing heroic work—but they shouldn’t have to.
The provincial leaders’ debate televised on Feb 17 is a great example of “same old, same old.”
The debate heard the same old platitudes, promises, platforms and policies. So, if you know the problem, why haven’t you been able to fix it? [Reading what the leaders said in their TV debate of Feb 17 (available at www.szpin.ca) is not eye-opening; rather, it’s discouraging. The same old song sung in the same whining tone. Ford may have been the worst with his constant whine that ‘the economy is the thing.’
You considering voting for FORD…?
Read this first: “ONT PROV ELECTION: Considering voting for FORD?” and see if you need to do some reviewing and reassessment.
Can any government, provincial, federal or otherwise, do anything about it? It looks like the answer is “No” with the politicians currently in office.
Ontario’s provincial election is in its closing week. Listening to the 4 leaders, the same messaging comes through, they recognize the problems but once in office, they fail to deliver. Crombie, Schreiner, and Stiles will confirm that about Ford. [see the post “ONT PROV ELECTION: Considering voting for FORD?“] They are right but so what. Where does that leave the voters? Hearing the same stuff and seeing the same results.
We are not doing well as a province if food bank use is any kind of indication. The canary in the coal mine? A very sad commentary of the provincial government and its failures. just read this post -> ” Food banks: we’re failing our very own people “
________________
We have sent a message to all four provincial party campaign offices asking for a comment from the party leader. It will interesting to see the response, if any.
Hey people! Have you heard about RSV? Well, you better learn a little about it and how to keep it at bay this winter. There’s no need to panic, but it’s good to be in the know!
What’s the deal with RSV?
RSV, or Respiratory Syncytial Virus, is a pesky virus that loves to make an appearance during Canadian winters. It’s not just a kid thing—older folks and anyone with a wonky immune system need to watch out, too.
Who’s at risk?
How to Spot It
RSV’s a sneaky one – it can look like a cold, the flu, or even COVID. Here’s what to watch for:
Keeping RSV at Bay
Time to channel your inner defences! Here’s your battle plan:
Vaccine Talk
Good news! There’s a vaccine available:
When to Call for Backup
If you’re having trouble breathing or feeling really rough, don’t tough it out – reach out to your healthcare provider. They’re there to help!
Remember, we’re all in this together. By looking out for ourselves and each other, we can make this winter a bit less sniffly for everyone. Stay warm, stay safe, and maybe treat yourself to some poutine – doctor’s orders!
I was online in early January looking for flights to Florida. Searching for the best prices on flights, car rental, accommodations, and travel insurance. I gave up after spending hours researching flights; departure times are mostly early hours, like 7 a.m., so I must be up at 3 a.m. to make sure I am at the airport before 5 a.m. I would say that return flight prices are as cheap as they have ever been. I have been going to Florida for over 20 years as I have extensive relatives living all over Florida. I have gone in every month from Sept. to March, but especially in Feb., to attend the Daytona 500, the start of NASCAR season. Now I have to check the luggage requirements. Some airlines include one checked bag in price; for others, you have to pay per bag; some allow carry-on bags, and some you pay; some allow a laptop bag under the seat, and some don’t. You better make sure you check the weight and size of your luggage also because if you oversize or weigh, the price increases significantly. I am travelling by myself. If you’re a family with kids, I salute your ability to manoeuvre all the above.
How do I get to the airport? I take my car and park in the park n’ fly lots; pay for the one close to the airport. One year, maybe in 2018, I saw a low price for a parking lot furthest from the airport with a free shuttle. Good idea, NOT. My GPS had the address, but there was no sign by the road. It got buried under the snowstorm that evening. Then, the shuttle didn’t come on time, and I was left frozen in the dark waiting. I was the only person waiting at this lot.
For details, click -> SULTAN
TORSTAR VINAY MENON: Writes current news commentaries that are excellent and often, hilarious. Very worthwhile reading.