Author Archives: szpinner

PICKERING: Stabbing at Durham College

One person is suffering from non-life-threatening injuries after being stabbed at Durham College’s Whitby campus Sept 25. Details at —> COLLEGE

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EDITORIAL: *** STOP DOING FREE SURVEYS *** Demand compensation

Are you tired of doing those online surveys that promise they’ll only take a couple of minutes and doing them for free? Stop doing those online surveys for free. Tell them you’ll respond if there is something in it for … Continue reading

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NAVIGATE MY SITE, “The Szpinner,” MORE EASILY

  My website consists of sections that need your input:  CLICK, SELECT or TYPE. [Sometimes you may have to refresh your browser (in Google) by clicking on the symbol found at the top left of your browser:    __________________________________________________________ The … Continue reading

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PICKERING: Community neighbourhood associations vital to good communities

Kudos to Councillor Maurice Brenner Thank you Maurice for letting residents know of our existence. I was organizing some old files and came across a document that states; Fairport Beach Ratepayers Association was formed in 1927 as a cottage community. … Continue reading

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POLITICS: *** STOP THE SPRAWL *** SUCCEEDS SOMEWHAT

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HEALTH: *** McMaster University *** OPTIMAL AGING PORTAL

The McMaster Optimal Aging Portal is a valuable online resource that serves as a hub for evidence-based information and resources related to healthy aging. This portal is designed to empower individuals, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and researchers with the latest research … Continue reading

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HEALTH: *** Mayo Clinic *** website provides useful, reliable and accurate medical information

Mayo Clinic:  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions The Mayo Clinic information website is a comprehensive and trusted online resource that provides a wealth of medical information to individuals seeking reliable healthcare guidance. The website offers a diverse range of content, from articles and videos … Continue reading

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HEALTH: Your X-RAYS, consider if you wish to have these records available to you.

Your X-rays are your personal information and you have a right to view them should you so decide. At this time, there is no convenient, centralized and practical process to access your X-ray results. However, the information can be accessed … Continue reading

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HEALTH: MyCharts, a free health care management service that YOU SHOULD CONSIDER if it is available to you

MyChart is a web-based patient portal and electronic health record (EHR) system developed by Epic Systems Corporation. It is designed to facilitate communication and engagement between patients and their healthcare providers. Key Features: Online Access to Medical Records MyChart allows … Continue reading

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PICKERING: *** Mayor Ashe message “Back to School” ***

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NEWS: Rougemont Community and Recreation Association (RCRA)

Rougemount Community and Recreation Association (RCRA) Rougemount Community and Recreation Association (RCRA) is in the Precinct of the City of Pickering, Ontario, Canada. The RCRA is a group of residents of Rougemount Precinct who are dedicated to bringing improvement and … Continue reading

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BITSnBYTES: AGEING…’DON’T LET THE OLD MAN IN”

You would think a recent replacement added to numerous other surgeries and medical services make one think about mortality but I am too busy to think about that. Besides I am having too much fun, enjoying what I do, the … Continue reading

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POLITICS: Wine and cheese with Conservative’s past leader ANDREW SCHEER

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BITSnBYTES: WE DIDN’T HAVE THE “GREEN THING” BACK THEN…

Checking out at the store, the young cashier suggested to the older woman, that she should bring her own grocery bags because plastic bags weren’t good for the environment. The woman apologized and explained, “We didn’t have this green thing … Continue reading

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SUNSHINE 04: Searchin’ for my lost shaker of salt !

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SUNSHINE 03: Yer gonna sing too ! (Lyrics included)

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SZPIN: SUBSCRIBE TO MY NEWSLETTER, “The SZPINNER”

newsletter is a community service project aiming to help people and keep them informed. I research information, news, and helpful advice and publish this material for the benefit of site visitors and newsletter readers. I invite you to subscribe to … Continue reading

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HEALTH: Biggest Reasons for Poor Balance with Aging and How to Fix

7 Biggest Reasons for Poor Balance with Aging and How to Fix them __________________________ VISION Our eyesight erodes with age. Some vision problems can become serious problems. Not seeing well puts one at risk of where they step, what they … Continue reading

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KITCHEN TIP: Save the environment when snipping corner of milk bag

CUT THE BAG THIS WAY, not all the way

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NEWS: WD-40’s days are numbered / Soon to be banned in Canada

Either stock up or switch to an alternate product Increasingly, the Canadian government is environmently-focused. Products with toxic contents higher than regulated by the government will be banned as of January 1, 2024 Goodbye WD40 WD40 exceeds the regulated limits … Continue reading

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NEWS: Your car’s spying on you (SHORT VERSION)

It is frightening how privacy and personal data are being invaded and eroded. Now your car, if it is a newer model, can spy on you: see where you have gone, record your driving habits such as speeding, use of … Continue reading

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SUNSHINE 02: This choir singing their hearts out will put a little sunshine in your day

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MANONE BIO

Diana MANONE Bucharest-born Diana Manole immigrated in 2000 and is now identifying herself as a proudly hyphenated Romanian-Canadian scholar, writer, and literary translator. She holds a PhD from the University of Toronto and has been teaching at Canadian universities since … Continue reading

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PICKERING: *** SNOW REMOVAL ASSISTANCE for SENIORS ***

Seniors & Persons with Disabilities Snow Clearing Program The winter 2023/2024 application period is Sept 11 to Oct 13, 2023 The City of Pickering offers senior citizens and people with a permanent physical or cognitive disability a snow-clearing service in order … Continue reading

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WRITERS n BOOKS: Canadian professor Diana Manole launches her latest collection of poems

The Event Praying to a Landed Immigrant God by Diana Manole Sept 8, Professor Diana Manole presented her book launching for “Praying to a Landed Immigrant God” at the Romanian Consulate in Toronto. A book launch, international in flavour Professor Manole, though … Continue reading

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PICKERING: Councillor Robinson critical of mayors’ strong powers policy (METROLAND NEWS)

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POLITICS: Conservative Party gags media at party convention in Quebec

Conservative Party convention report ________________ 🍁 Conservative Convention by Nora Loreto [Some modifications made relative to the website.] __________________ Something smells in the state of The Conservative Party of Canada. They denied party convention media creditation to The Maple journalist, … Continue reading

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PICKERING: Conservative Party of Canada gags the media.

Conservative Party is afraid of something or it has become too big for its britches. Recently, at the Conservative Party convention in Quebec City, Conservative Party staffers not only denied media accreditation to The Maple, a Canadian news source but … Continue reading

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PICKERING: Councillor Robinson saddened by Ford government’s Greenbelt policy

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HEALTH: Peter Attia on cheating death…for a while

Fitness and longevity guru: exercise, exercise, exercise Source: Katie Underwood, Macleans magazine, Sept 5, 2023 _________________________________ “We have it better than the king of England did 500 years ago! I think about that when I’m distressed about the insignificance of … Continue reading

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HEALTH: Heart attack symptoms that are often misdiagnosed

Source: Readers Digest Canada Too often heart attack symptoms are misdiagnosed. Proper identification of these symptoms is crucial for timely medical intervention. Chest pain Chest pain is a well-known symptom, but there are other symptoms that are often overlooked or … Continue reading

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POLITICS: STOP SPRAWL DURHAM campaign

We support this campaign because: Ford reversed his promise not to touch the Greenbelt; Ford govt launched anti-Greenbelt policies based on crooked deals; Minister and assistant resignations confirm corruption; Developers prove themselves to be in Ford’s pockets; Land for home … Continue reading

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POLITICS: Has ‘Stop Sprawl Durham’ softened its effort against Dog Ford government

The Stop Sprawl Durham group recently published a media release that softens their blows against the Dog Ford government. Read their full press release of Sept 5  —>  SPRAWL The Stop Sprawl Durham was on the right path as confirmed … Continue reading

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POLITICS: Stop Sprawl Durham press release

[pdf-embedder url=”http://www.szpin.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Sept-5-Greenbelt-Media-Release-.pdf” title=”Sept 5 Greenbelt Media Release”]

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SUNSHINE 01: You’ll enjoy this bit of sunshine!

Watch and listen to a few moments of fun and  joy… CHER and ANDY GARCIA singing ABBA’s ‘FERNANDO’ Click the MAXIMIZE SCREEN button and Enjoy! https://videos.files.wordpress.com/ZCIz86Zy/vid-20200205-wa0002-5.mp4

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EDITORIAL: An interesting take from a student in the USA

An American student wrote this. This kid is a thinker. Imagine what he’ll be like as an adult. He definitely hits the nail on its head when it comes to sensitivity, empathy and thoughts about the USA. Not to be … Continue reading

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COOKING: * * * 5 Foodie websites * * *

is a food and drink website that provides recipes, cooking techniques, equipment reviews, and stories about food culture and history. The website was founded in 2006 by Ed Levine, a food writer and journalist, and has since won several awards … Continue reading

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COOKING: Do you have a GOOD RECIPE for CHILI?

__________________________________________________________ Looking for a GOOD CHILI recipe… do you make a good chili? ___________________________ Many online recipes claim to make good chilis, but many of these recipes are unappealing for a number of reasons: Too many ingredients ingredients that are hard to … Continue reading

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PICKERING: TART FESTIVAL

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BITSnBYTES: THE WAY NEIGHBOURHOODS SHOULD BE !

Where are the old-time neighbourhoods as we remember them? Friendlier? More closely knit? Everyone knew everyone else? Every child was known by name. Everyone watched out for their neighbour, their neighbour’s property while the neighbours were vacationing. Well, those good … Continue reading

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The SZPINNER SEPT 2023 Newsletter

[pdf-embedder url=”http://www.szpin.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SEPT-Newsletter-2023.pdf” title=”SEPT Newsletter 2023″]

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HEALTH: The benefits of OLIVE OIL

A summary of the benefits of olive oil: Olive oil is a versatile and healthy condiment that may have protective effects against dementia and other chronic diseases. A preliminary study from Harvard suggests that consuming about half a tablespoon of … Continue reading

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PICKERING: Open letter to Mayor Ashe and Council

[The open letter displayed below is intended as an informational news article. Posting here does not indicate support for the letter.] Dear Mayor Ashe and Pickering Councillors, We need to talk about Mayor Ashe’s response to the Auditor General’s investigation into the … Continue reading

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PICKERING: DURHAM REGION TRANSIT announcement regarding BUS SERVICES

              BUS SERVICES ANNOUNCEMENT Durham Transit Update TTC comes to the Rescue Toronto Transit Commission will be providing support to  DRT’s September service update following fire at the Oshawa bus depot. Toronto Transit Commission … Continue reading

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$AVE: SAVE $$$$ on your hotels and restaurant travel expenses

Money saving travel advice travel Szpinner Hotel Reservation system Hotels and restaurants take the biggest bite out of your travel bucks but savings can be had with your accommodation expenses. Do not use Third Party Booking networks Using third-party booking … Continue reading

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SENIORS: Top ten ways for seniors to stay fit?

What are the top ten ways for seniors to stay fit? From Quora Digest Strengthen. You don’t need to pump iron or go to a gym. But you do need to do body weight and light weight exercises that keep … Continue reading

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RECIPES-TO-TEST: Here’s an idea to try…use CORNSTARCH instead of flour

Here’s an idea for making your air-fried dishes even crispier…instead of using flour used to coat the meat of your air fryer protein…. Use constarch to make your chicken crispy while keeping the dish gluten-free. Cornstarch also thickens sauces, helping … Continue reading

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BITSnBYTES: HEALTH (BRAIN): *** Internet use regularly lower their risk of dementia ***

Older adults who use the internet regularly have half the risk of dementia compared to non-regular users A longitudinal study of a large group of older adults showed that regular internet users had approximately half the risk of dementia compared … Continue reading

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BITSnBYTES: HODGE PODGE: Jimmie Buffett’s passing jogs thoughts about life

Living life to the fullest! Jimmie Buffett, singer/songwriter, entrepreneur, bon vivant and more. Jimmie passed away Sept 1 but he’ll live forever in  “Margaritaville,” the song that captured his philosophy of life. __________________________________ Jimmie lived life with joy and fullness. … Continue reading

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EDITORIAL: Should Pickering’s Integrity Commissioner, Jeffrey A. Abrams, be investigated?

“BBB“ B**sh*t Baffles Brains or Bureaucracy Baffles Brains. Here’s a perfect example. The gift-giving rule states clearly that the limit is $500. A number of Pickering councillors exceeded the limit and Pickering resident Anthony Yacub filed a complaint, not to chastise … Continue reading

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PICKERING: “Curbside Giveaway Day”

Regional Councillor Maurice Brenner wishes to announce to local residents about Curbside Giveaway Day. Curbside Giveaway Day The Curbside Giveaway Day event is an opportunity to reduce the amount of garbage going to disposal sites by giving away your unwanted … Continue reading

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HEALTH: 10 tips to improve your brain and whole health wellness

Set a goal to improve your wellness by practicing any of these tips daily. Doing so will help form a habit that becomes part of your routine Eat a brain and heart-healthy diet! Incorporate more whole foods while limiting ultra-processed … Continue reading

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RECIPES-TO-TEST: * * * AIR FRYER GRILLED CHEESE * * *

One of your favourite comfort foods just got easier to make…in an air fryer. We doubt there is any calorie savings but it sure is an easy way and less messy way to make this favourite dish. Click —> GRILLED CHEESE  

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RECIPES: *** TESTED *** BRUSCHETTA, but ya gotta love tomatoes !

Ya gotta love TOMATOES ! This BRUSCHETTA recipe is for tomato lovers! [NOTE: For those who dislike garlic, do not add any to the recipe but you’ll never know what you’re missing.] INGREDIENTS 4 large vine-ripened, diced, tomatoes (approx 2 cups) … Continue reading

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POLITICS: * * * The CAR of Choice at Queen’s Park today * * *

It ain’t a Ford!

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POLITICS: Doggie is starting to worry…’cept time will erase voter’s memories

This boy’s starting to worry except voters have poor memories, so Doggie should abide by Saul Alinsky’s principle, “9-day theory.” The many issues causing Dog Ford problems right now will be displaced by new issues in about a week’s time. … Continue reading

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HEALTH: 6 ways to thrive in your golden years

Old age is unbeatable…meaning cannot be defeated. If you’re lucky, it’s coming for you. But it isn’t the end of the world. You can make those late years good ones too! Read how to thrive in your golden years with … Continue reading

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HEALTH: Foods that help reduce joint inflammation

tomatoes olive oil green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and collards nuts like almonds and walnuts fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, cherries, and oranges _____________________ Read the full article at —>  INFLAMMATION REDUCTION

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POLITICAL NEWS: Bill C18 and the blocking of Cdn news on Facebook, Instagram, Google

META and GOOGLE are in a clash with the Canadian government in regard to their use of Canadian news articles. The Canadian government wants compensation for Canadian news media sources. To read the latest and more detail about this story, … Continue reading

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POLITICS: NDP Leaders opposes Dog Ford’s Green Belt Policy

Provincial NDP leader Marit Stiles demands Dog Ford change his Green Belt policy. Read more at –> STILES

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EDITORIAL: How’s living in your city…mine is terrific !

Living here is really good. Each month I post messages from City of Pickering Council members to my monthly newsletter, This month I invited them to write a message with this note in mind… People are complaining and lamenting endlessly … Continue reading

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POLITICS: Auditor General Lysyk indicates countless violations made by Dog Ford Greenbelt policies

Auditor General of Ontario, Bonnie Lysyk, reported numerous rule and protocol violations made by Dog Ford government in dealing with its Green Belt plan.  Below is a summary list of the many violations made by the Dog Ford government. _____________________________________________ … Continue reading

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STREGA 01: The STREGA story

Many centuries ago, a witch, the STREGA DI POZALLO, practiced her black magic, spells and various curses in the southern region of the island of Sicily. Her fame and reputation expanded throughout all of Sicily and as expected, once women of … Continue reading

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NEWS: STOP THE SPRAWL protests at Bethlenfalvy consitituency office

A crowd of nearly 500 protesters demonstrated their opposition and dismay with Premier Dung Ford’s Green Belt policy at his minister Peter Bethlenfalvy’s constituency office in Pickering. Protesters protested against one of many of Ford’s latest policies regarding the Green … Continue reading

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STREGA 02: Maledizioni

Maledizioni are the many curses used by the women who practice the black magic of the STREGA DI POZZALLO.  Only Italian women who practice the black art of the STREGA di POZZALLO know the complete list of maledizioni. No men. 

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ECONOMICS: Inflation is in good hands with the Bank of Canada…..don’t kid yourself

The Bank of Canada keeps touting that it is monitoring and managing the Canadian economic situation well. The interest rate was increased to 5% in July with the BC claiming to have the situation well in hand. Job losses indicate … Continue reading

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EDITORIAL: The problem with politicians today, maybe always

My professional career was EDUCATION. I have but one regret about a career in academics, the questionably low respect given to educators. Certainly, as in any field, there are individuals who should be criticized for their irresponsibility in the work … Continue reading

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REMINDER: “Stop the Sprawl” RALLY….my placard

There’s a protest rally at Bethelenfalvy’s Pickering office. Consider attending if you can. Here’s the placard I’ll be carrying: I have nothing against Dug Ford personally. I don’t care about him. However, I do think politicians should be held accountable, … Continue reading

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RECIPES-TO-TEST: *** OUTBACK STEAK HOUSE Dry Rub ***

I have NOT TESTED this dry rub recipe yet. I am constantly looking for ways to improve BBQ grilled steak. To date, the best way is simply a bit of pepper, some garlic powder and that’s it. However, I am … Continue reading

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STREGA 03: Nomenticar

Nomenticar is a curse of STREGA di POZZZALLO. The curse afflicts a man’s memory by completely erasing any woman’s name from the man’s memory. Even if he has just met the woman, minutes later, her name will be completely erased … Continue reading

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STREGA 04: Sordo tutto

Sordo tutto is the curse that affects a man’s hearing. When the curse is in effect, the cursed man does not hear clearly whenever a woman talks to him. Often, the afflicted man will not hear some portion of what … Continue reading

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STREGA 05: Occhio scappato

Occhio scappato is somewhat of a variation of the nomenticar curse.  Rather than just forgetting a woman’s name moments after meeting her, the man afflicted with this curse will forget ever having met the woman at all. He will have … Continue reading

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LETTERS n COMMENTARY: Dan Rather says it best in his blog, STEADY

Dan Rather, retired CBS news broadcaster, says it best. At 92, Rather has a few more years experience than I do. So he is more eloquent and more polished in writing his warning about the threat to American democracy that reelection … Continue reading

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POLITICS: LIST OF FEDERAL CABINET MINISTERS, July 2023

  Cabinet shuffle took place on July 18, 2023   Cabinet ministers 29th Canadian Ministry     Ministry Date of creation Incumbent Province Minister since Precedence date[a]   Prime Minister of Canada 1 July 1867 Justin Trudeau QC 4 November … Continue reading

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HEALTH: Getting to the root of emotional eating

It’s 100 per cent normal to reach for food when your mood is low, but how do you make sure emotional eating doesn’t become problematic emotional overeating? If you reach for food when you’re feeling stressed, sad, lonely or angry, … Continue reading

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HEALTH: MyChart – a health record service you might find practical and very useful

MyChart is a safe and secure free health record service available to persons who have  been patients at these hospitals: Campbellford Memorial Hospital Haliburton Highlands Health Services Lakeridge Health Northumberland Hills Hospital Peterborough Regional Health Centre Ross Memorial Hospital Scarborough … Continue reading

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STREGA 06: Bacio basico

Bacio basico is ‘curse remover light.’ When a woman kisses both cheeks of a man cursed with nomenticar, the memory erasure of the curse is lifted. The man will now remember the name of the woman who has kissed him on … Continue reading

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POLITICS: T**** could win the presidency; if he does, American democracy will die.

Dan Rather, former CBS newsbroadcast fame, co-writes a daily blog that political followers will enjoy. The link to the site:  –> STEADY His latest piece is about Donaly T**** , the possibility his winning the 2024 presidential election and the … Continue reading

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HEALTH: Top 13 things to do NOW to reduce risk of ALZHEIMERS – Dr. Andrea Wilkinson

Get your daily fill of leafy green vegetables Practice stress management and prioritize mental health, especially depression Connect with friends or family every day Enjoy a handful of berries daily Get some fresh air Get 7-9 hours of sleep every … Continue reading

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STREGA 07: Bacio morto

Bacio morte is a not-to-be-played-with action. Best translated as the “kiss of death,” any husband married to an Italian woman caught kissing a woman on the lips will be in serious trouble with his spouse. His wife may now resort to … Continue reading

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EDITORIAL: How does a WARD resident get current information from their councilor?

So I ask you, how does a WARD resident get information about issues and problems in their ward? Some city councilors are responsible and committed to keeping their constituents informed about issues and problems in their wards. Others, not so … Continue reading

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BOOK LAUNCH: Coming soon details Diana Manole’s “Praying to a Landed Immigrant God”

BOOK LAUNCH – POETRY LOVERS… You are invited to join me to welcome my book to the world   FYI: LIMITED SEATING REGISTRATION via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/book-launch-diana-manole-tickets-693351491977?aff=oddtdtcreator  Please share the news with poetry lovers who might be interested.  I’m very grateful to … Continue reading

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PICKERING: ** UPDATE ** Municipal councilors’ DISCLOSURE STATEMENTS

NOTE: 1. Information source:    City of Pickering (pickering.ca) 2. “Brenner Disclosure Statement“ corrected and updated. UPDATE: Investigation started:  –>  DURHAM NEWS

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PICKERING: WEST SHORE SKATE SPOT COMMUNITY MURAL

[pdf-embedder url=”http://www.szpin.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/West-Shore-Skate-Spot-Community-Mural.pdf” title=”West Shore Skate Spot Community Mural”]

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GET PREPARED SENIORS: What about DIGITAL ASSETS in your ESTATE PLANNING

information you might need to leave in your estate. Create a legacy contact or plan You can designate a “legacy contact” in Apple and Google accounts or create a legacy plan therein. These accounts have ‘legacy contact’ settings where you … Continue reading

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BITSnBYTES: GRANNY’S 10 FRUGALITY TIPS

Granny’s 10 top tips for saving $$$: Buy only what you need and stick to your grocery list Switch to cheaper food options and generic brands Meal plan and cook from scratch Avoid wasting food and use leftovers creatively Grow … Continue reading

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BITSnBYTES: A very useful tool displaying ‘crime hotspots’ in the Durham Region

Durham Police Services has an interesting and informative service, ‘Interactive Crime Map,’ that displays crime hotspots based on your selection of type of crime. The criteria for the map below was “AUTO THEFT.“ Users can choose various aspects to show … Continue reading

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HEALTH: Should You Take Ozempic or Other GLP-1 Drugs If You’re Over 65?

Many people are frustrated with their weight reduction efforts. A new set of drugs available by injection are available. They are classified as GLP-1 drugs and Ozempic is one example of them. GLP-1 drugs: A class of medications that lower … Continue reading

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PICKERING: Kudos to Mayor Ashe and the City of Pickering in the fight against HATE

Kudos to Mayor Ashe on his denunciation of the HATE crimes vandalization of the LGBT+ crosswalks in Pickering. It is sad and also a cause of anger that such despicable vandalism happens in our community. The City is working hard … Continue reading

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SIMPLE GMAIL NOTES extension to manage gmails like a PRO

Your gmail records can be really improved with this great extension… Simple Gmail Notes by BART Solutions. __________________________________ The extension tool allows you to write notes about any gmail you have inside the gmail itself. This means you can write … Continue reading

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PICKERING: I keep telling them….”SIMPLIFY, SIMPLIFY, SIMPLIFY”

I keep telling the City of Pickering, “Keep it simple” but they still don’t get it. Am beginning to wonder about where the “simple” lies with the City. My research, my work, my experience with teaching adults reinforces one thing … Continue reading

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POLITICS: About INFLATION from ‘The Szinner’ newsetter

Recently, we published a primer about INFLATION.  The Fraser Institute, a Canadian think tank, writes in depth analysis about Canada’s economy. It has stated that the growth of government debt in Canada since the 2008/09 recession and the fiscal challenges … Continue reading

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The SZPINNER AUG 2023 Newsletter

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PICKERING: Is our municipal council failing us with PROPERTY TAXES?

We’re too high on the list Mr. Mayor!

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PICKERING: PROPERTY TAXES? Quit complaining!

RECORD CITY ’22 TAX RATE AVG HOME TAX TAX 500K Home TAX 1m Home TAX 1.5m Home 1 Toronto 0.63% $6,908 $3,160 $6,319 $9,479 2 Markham 0.65% $8,273 $3,225 $6,450 $9,675 3 Richmond Hill 0.67% $8,834 $3,353 $6,707 $10,060 4 … Continue reading

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NUTRITION: What is the most nutritious food for seniors

Because older people have special nutritional requirements, it is essential to emphasize nutrient-dense foods in such their diets. Some examples of healthy foods that are good for seniors: Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, … Continue reading

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POLITICS FEDERAL: Ottawa “BELLY Company” does the “CABINET SHUFFLE”

The Prime Minister, like many politicians, blows a lot of hot air while Canadians suffer economically. OTTAWA CABINET MINISTERS, JULY 2023 MINISTRY Name MINISTER AGRICULTURE LAWRENCE  MacAULAY CITIZENS’ SERVICES TERRY BEECH CROWN-INDIGENOUS RELATIONS GARY  ANANDASANGAREE DEFENCE BILL BLAIR DIVERSITY, INCLUSION, … Continue reading

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NUTRITION: The healthiest types of CHEESE

Mozzarella: Mozzarella is a soft white cheese with high moisture content. It originated in Italy and is usually made from Italian buffalo or cow’s milk. Mozzarella is lower in sodium and calories than most other cheeses. Mozzarella is a soft … Continue reading

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NEWS: Doggie FORD – CRONIES AND CORRUPTION

This leader sees that he can do anything he wants without being accountable. He cannot be voted out of office until the next election which may be in 2024. Read his next example of CRONISM and CORRUPTION —>  Dog FORD  

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NEWS: BELL applies for copyright ownership of the colour BLUE

This is either insanity to the extreme or absolute nonsense by a corporation. BELL is looking to trademark the ‘Bell Blue.” Corporations are either insane in their corporate policies or they are recognizing that the Canadian federal government is a … Continue reading

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WRITING SERVICES

Ever feel there just aren’t enough hours in the day? Writing is a full-time job. However, every writer has many ancillary tasks to do: editing, reviewing, promoting, publishing, and researching. These tasks take time and energy and deflect you from … Continue reading

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WRITERS n BOOKS: A blog writer worth reading

John Weiss is a writer, artist, and former police chief with twenty-six years of law enforcement experience. He holds a master’s degree in criminal justice administration and his work appears in The Guardian, NBC News, Simplify Magazine, Becoming Minimalist, Mr. Feelgood, Good Men Project, and elsewhere … Continue reading

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HEALTH: Why I eat an APPLE every day

I eat an apple every day. Too bad I eat much more as I continually whine about weight gain. But an apple as my late afternoon supper seems to help me manage the weight gain. It’s a struggle, particularly as … Continue reading

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Doggie BITS: So you think Ford is being mistreated or misunderstood

Site visitors may think we have something personal against Doggie Ford. Not true. Our gut feeling just makes us feel this politician is our own version of an American ex-president. Both men are bullies, corporate bureaucratic bulldozers, political ruffians and … Continue reading

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Doggie BITS: Ode to Dougie the Man of La Pancha

              The Geste of Lord Dougie and vassals John and Peter        

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Doggies BITS: He’s conning us again

The CON: Empty titles as political rewards. Doggie never stops his cons.

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Doggie BITS: Con artists supreme !

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RECIPES TO TEST: Air fryer CARMELIZED BANANAS

Ingredients 2 large bananas, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch slices 1 tablespoon salted butter, melted 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Directions Preheat air fryer to 390 degrees F (195 degrees C) Spread … Continue reading

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HEALTH: double dose vaccine defends against shingles

Shingles is a viral infection wished on no one. In Ontario, the double dose vaccine is available is free for certain ages. ____________________________ Shingles: A painful skin rash with blisters caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox1. It … Continue reading

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PICKERING: WONDERBRAND breaks ground on giant operation in Pickering

Wonderbrands groundbreaks giant operation in Pickering: Wonderbrands Innovation Park: A 151-acre food manufacturing campus in Pickering, Ontario, developed by FGF Brands, a leading bakery company in North America. FGF Brands’ acquisition of George Weston Bakeries: FGF Brands bought the fresh … Continue reading

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NEWS: On the verge of phenomenal medical innovation

New York Times journalist, David Wallace-Wells, writes a very enlightening and exciting piece regarding our being on the edge of phenomenal breakthroughs in medical innovation. The summary of the article: The Golden Age of Medicine: A perspective on the recent … Continue reading

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RECIPES: * * * TESTED * * * Homemade mayonnaise 9/10

Ingredients 1 large egg 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice (from 1/2 a lemon) 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 medium clove garlic, minced 1 cup (240ml) vegetable or canola oil Kosher salt Directions Place egg, lemon juice, and mustard in the bottom of cup or jar that just fits the head of your immersion … Continue reading

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HODGE PODGE: “1%ers” – are you one of the lucky 1%?

1% ers – Hard to believe but this includes many of us. 99% of those born between 1930 and 1946 (worldwide) are now dead. If you were born in this time span, you are one of the rare surviving one … Continue reading

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BITSnBYTES: Bill Haley and the Comets UPDATED

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EDITORIAL: Local pols deserve some praise some time

Criticizing and condemning seem easier than complimenting and congratulating. However, our local pols deserve some patting on the back, some praise and some lauding. Why you ask? Walk in their shoes awhile. Endless meetings, infinite numbers of events to attend, … Continue reading

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RECIPES-TO-TEST: FRESH SALMON BURGERS

Fresh Salmon Burgers A great alternative to those old-fashioned and less-healthy beef burgers. INGREDIENTS 1  medium lemon 1  small bunch fresh dill, divided 1  medium shallot 1 (1 1/2-pound)  side of salmon or 1 1/2 pounds salmon fillets, skin removed 1/4 cup  … Continue reading

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RECIPES-TO-TEST: Easy Carrot Cake with icing

Who doesn’t enjoy carrot cake! This recipe takes about 20 mins of work. The long time is waiting for it to cool before icing it.   Ingredients   Cake: 2¾ cups self-raising flour sieved 1½ cups dark soft brown sugar sieved … Continue reading

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PICKERING: Town Hall REPORT (July 12th)

Town Hall (Ward 1) REPORT Ward 1 Councilor Maurice Brenner cohosted a Town Hall meeting with Paul White, President of the Fairport Beach Neighbourhood Association at Frenchman’s Bay West Park on July 12. Perfect weather, an ideal summer evening, an … Continue reading

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TRAVEL: Planning a ROAD TRIP Holiday this year?

Planning a ROAD TRIP holiday this year? Given the cost of a vacation by air, by ship, or even by bus if it is available, may be very expensive given these inflationary times. A ROAD TRIP may be an alternative … Continue reading

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EDITORIAL: Ask not what your government can do for you……why not? 7-13-23

Loblaw’s makes $1,000,000 profit every day. Loblaws, Metro and Sobeys all posted above-average profits for 2022 compared to the last five years. Loblaw’s revenues were $52.7 billion in 2020. Metro earned profits of $823 million in 2020. Nearly 2 of every 10 … Continue reading

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RECIPES: ***TESTED*** Lemon Pudding Cake 9.5/10…a “keeper” recipe!

Ingredients 4 eggs, separated ⅓ cup lemon juice 1 tablespoon butter 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 ½ cups white sugar ½ cup sifted all-purpose flour ½ teaspoon salt 1 ½ cups milk Directions Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking dish. Beat egg yolks, lemon juice, … Continue reading

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NEWS: 5% interest rate increase by the Bank of Canada killing us

The 5% interest rate increase by the Bank of Canada will impact the average Canadian who are in debt by about $500 per year. This will likely discourage Canadians from borrowing or purchasing on credit. This will seriously cool the … Continue reading

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NEWS: “STEADY,” a blog written by DAN RATHER, American news journalist

“Steady” is Dan Rather’s steady take on the state of chaotic and complex world. Rather is 91 going strong with the energy and vigour that belies his real age, 91. He writes a daily blog that comments and critiques the … Continue reading

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TIPS: The BEST and EASIEST method to SEAR meat

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EDITORIAL: Try paying your taxes late? Try paying less than invoiced? 7-9-23

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