#construction in Canada

[abinavgoyal]

Top Indo-Canadian Success Stories: Inspiring Journeys of Arun Garg, Aditya Jha, Nisha Pahuja, Alice Benjamin, and Garry Sangha

Arun Garg: Medine, Tech, Academia, and Administration

Arun Garg is known as an entrepreneur and tech innovator. He is widely recognized as someone who has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of the Canadian technology industry. Born in Agra, India, Garg found himself in a strange situation by his 16th birthday, that of being too young to take admission in medical school in India, despite having already completed his master’s in chemistry, one of the youngest to ever achieve that at the University of Agra. Thus, Garg immigrated to Saskatchewan, Canada to pursue higher studies.

By the age of 27, Garg had earned a PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Regina, as well as a medical degree from the University of British Columbia. As a pathologist, he served as a medical partner in Dr. C. J. Coady Associates between 1979–2011. He became Medical Director of Lab Medicine and Pathology at Royal Columbian Hospital in 1997 and went to assume the responsibility of regional director post the hospital’s absorption into the Fraser Health region. Garg has also served as the president of the British Columbia Medical Association board, and as a board member of the Canadian Medical Association. As an Indo-Canadian, Garg has been active and indeed quite instrumental in deepening the ties of two of the world’s largest democracies, having served as chair of India Marketing Advisory Group, India Advisory Council for Simon Fraser University. He was also a founder member of Canadian Physicians with Interest in South Asia of BC and Canadian Association of Physicians of Indian Heritage.

Aditya Jha: Social Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy

Aditya Jha is one of the most accomplished Canadian entrepreneurs currently living. He is also perhaps one of the most creative entrepreneurs in Canada. Jha traces his ancestry to two South Asian nation, having been born to a Nepalese father and an India mother. His journey from a small town in India to the nation’s capital where he was a scholar in the two of the nation’s most well-respected universities would be impressive enough. However, Jha would transcend all barriers and dared to dream on. After completing his undergraduate degree from the University of Delhi, and Masters from Kurukshetra University, Jha went on to become a research scholar at the prestigious Jawaharlal Nehru University. There, he became actively involved in progressive student politics, and led the country’s largest progressive student body as president in two Indian provinces. By 1979, the political scene in India had gone pear shaped, and due to socio-political unrest, the government had suspended civil liberties and imposed an emergency. With student politics outlawed, Jha was forced to go underground and was instrumental in keeping the embers of democracy glowing through underground activities. Around the same time, he got the opportunity to visit Paris, France, for mainframe computer training with CIT Alcatel for six months. A brilliant scholar, he had qualified for India’s University Grants Commission’s Junior and Senior scholarship and Research Associateship from the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research. And thus, Jha left India. Before immigrating to Canada and starting a career with Bell, Jha worked in Singapore, Australia and Southeast Asian countries.

After a career at Bell, he would go on an entrepreneurial spree, co-founding Isopia, software company, which was acquired by Sun Microsystems for over $100 million, Osellus Inc, another software firm with offices in Toronto and Bangkok, and acquired several businesses including a confectionery from Allan Candy/Cadbury Adams Canada which he renamed Karma. Through his acquisitions, Jha was instrumental in saving more than 150 jobs who were poised to be laid-off. Between 2013–2016, Jha was the CEO of Euclid Infotech. In January 2017, Jha acquired dgMarket International Inc from Development Gateway. dgMarket is the oldest and one of the largest portals for tenders and consulting opportunities globally, with solicitations from national governments and international donor agencies, integrating about 1 million procurement notices per year, covering about $1 trillion tender opportunities. Given what Jha has achieved, he can easily lay claim to being one of top 5 most successful Canadian entrepreneurs ever. Jha is renowned for his philanthropy and is involved in philanthropic activities to promote the interests of first nations in Canada, and the poor in India and Nepal.

Nisha Pahuja: Films and Society

Nisha Pahuja is globally acclaimed filmmaker, having directed Emmy nominated The World Before Her and the Oscar nominated To Kill A Tiger. She has earned praise for her thought-provoking documentaries that delve into complex social issues. Born in New Delhi, Pahuja moved to Canada as a child in the 1970’s. She studied English literature at the University of Toronto, with the aim of making a career in fiction. However, her life changed when she was hired as a researcher for the CBC documentary, Some Kind of Arrangement. Having seen the process of making a documentary up close, Pahuja decided to become a documentary film maker.

The World Before Her was her first major work as an independent film maker. In the documentary, she explored the contradictions that exist in Indian society, where on one hand Bollywood infused glamour encourages a girl to dream of making it in the fashion industry (shown through the eyes of a contestant in the Miss India beauty pageant), and on the other hand the deep rooted traditional values which often took on a violent and militant form (shown through an activist of Durga Vahini, an all-female ultra-right wing conservative organization that opposes beauty pageants as crass commercialization of a woman’s body and antithetical to Indian culture and ethos). Through the film, Pahuja also focuses on the two main characters, their motivations, and dreams. The film, acclaimed globally, released in India around the time of the gruesome Delhi rape case, garnering a lot of attention, and gaining support from renowned film makers like Anurag Kashyap.

Her latest work, “To Kill a Tiger” focuses on an Indian family’s fight to win justice for their daughter who was brutally raped. Shocking and yet inspiring, the film has found support from the likes of Dev Patel, Mindy Kaling, and Rupi Kaur amongst others, who have actively promoted the film. The film has been shortlisted for the Academy Awards, 2024.

Alice Benjamin: Medicine

A recipient of multiple awards, Alice Benjamin is one of Canada’s foremost experts in fetal and maternal medicine. Born in Kerala, India, Benjamin completed her Bachelor of Science from the University of Kerala, before earning a Doctorate of Medicine from the university of Delhi. She did her internship at Lady Harding Medical College and Hospital in Delhi, before immigrating to Canada to complete her residency in ob/gyn at McGill University affiliated Jewish General and Royal Victoria hospitals. This included a fellowship in maternal-fetal medicine.

Benjamin has successfully overseen innumerable high-risk pregnancies during her career as a physician. She created history when she performed Canada’s first successful diabetic renal transplant and pregnancy in 1984, and once again in 1998, when she delivered Canada’s first successful interval delivery of twins, where the babies were delivered six weeks apart. In 1994, Benjamin supervised the first peritoneal dialysis pregnancy and delivery in Quebec, and in 2003, its first successful pregnant peritoneal dialysis on cycler. In 2001, Benjamin delivered the first ever infant whose cord blood stem cells were used for a bone-marrow transplant to cure the mother’s leukaemia. Both infant and mother survived and achieved full health.

Benjamin is actively involved in social causes and philanthropy, especially through World Vision and the Salvation Army. Due to her innumerable contributions, she has been feted with numerous honours, including Officer of the Order of Canada, and Knight of the National Order of Quebec. There are also awards that have been created in her honour and are given out annually to deserving students. They are Alice Benjamin Award for Excellence in Obstetrics, Molson Award for Educational Excellence, Dr. Alice Benjamin Leadership Award, and Dr. Alice Benjamin Global Maternal and Child Health Awards.

Garry Sangha: Construction and Philanthropy.

Having covered Indo-Canadian success stories where education played a crucial role, it is only fair that we look at someone who achieved success despite being denied a fair opportunity to pursue higher education. Garry Sangha is today one of the most easily recognizable names in the Indo-Canadian community of the Lower Mainland. Still very much in his mid-40’s, Sangha commands a vast empire in construction, real estate and hospitality, and has done all this from scratch, in less than 25 years from landing in Vancouver as a raw, 17-year-old. Born in a small hamlet in Punjab, Sangha grew up in an agricultural family. He studied at his village school, and after graduating high school took admission in the local Khalsa college, also getting attracted to student activism around this time. In his very first year, Sangha won student body elections and became president of the student union from a progressive platform. Popular, a keen student and soccer player, Sangha could very well have charted a course in Indian politics. However, in 1997, he immigrated to Vancouver with his entire family, forced to drop out from college. In Vancouver, he took admission in the prestigious British Columbia Institute of Technology in the engineering course. However, given his parent’s advanced age and financial pressures, he dropped out yet again to take up work full time as a construction labourer.

Starting out at the very bottom, Sangha quickly climbed the ranks and was soon a supervisor on major construction sites, specializing in drywall. In 2005, less than a decade of landing in Canada, and still in his mid-20’s, Sangha would launch Crystal Consulting Drywall. Today that single company has grown to be a a group of companies that includes CCI Drywall, CCI Waterproofing, CCI Masonry and Kanin Constructions, by its own right one of the most prestigious brands in Canadian construction. Sangha has since gone to diversify his business ventures, starting a real estate development firm called Allure Ventures and opening one of Lower Mainland’s most opulent fine dining restaurants, Skye Avenue, which boasts of the largest whisky collection available for public consumption globally.

Sangha has also been heavily involved in soccer in British Columbia, having served on the board of BC Soccer, and being instrumental in turning around the flagging fortunes of the oldest soccer club in Surrey, BC, putting in thousands of hours in coaching and management. He is also a serial philanthropist, especially on issues pertaining to mental health, having donated over a million dollars across the last few years to organizations like Children’s Hospital Foundation , The Canucks for Kids Fund , The Food Bank , the City of Backpacks for Kids Program , Canadian Mental Health Association , Urban Resilience Opportunities for Kids , Here 4 Peers, ICBA Wellness, Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation , Langley Memorial Hospital Foundation , BC Children’s Hospital, and the Giving Hearts Gala.

Conclusion

The success stories of Arun Garg, Aditya Jha, Nisha Pahuja, Alice Benjamin, and Garry Sangha highlight the diverse and dynamic contributions of the Indo-Canadian community to Canada’s cultural and economic fabric. These individuals have not only achieved remarkable success in their respective fields but have also made significant contributions to society, inspiring others to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact on the world.

[arc-hus]

La Cime Chalet, Sainte-Béatrix, Canada - NatureHumaine

[onmytape]

team canada

[genericpuff]

highlights of the randy feltface "the first banana" show:

1.) when the opener showed us that saint john was included on the tour date t-shirts despite the fact that there was no show for saint john planned (thoughts and prayers to people in saint john, nothing happened, it's just a shit place to live in LMAO)

2.) when one of the participants in the crowd work (jim) stated that he used to work for canada post 8 months ago and everyone in the audience went "oOoOoOo" and randy initially had no idea wtf that was implying

3.) when randy kept saying jim's name wrong and we all shouted "jim" to correct him and he stared blankly at all of us while saying "i know his name is jim"

4.) when randy talked about the banana wars which i was very excited about because i had just learned about them very recently and they're a very fucked up thing that actually happened, look it up

5.) "imagine being threatened by trans people, they make up like 0.4% of the canadian population, approximately 100,000 people - that's like feeling personally threatened by people who play magic the gathering"

6.) being in the balcony where i could see heath mcivor's baseball cap bobbing and weaving behind the table as he puppeteered randy (it did not break the illusion at all, he's incredibly skilled and getting to see randy feltface in person was 10x more impressive than watching his clips on youtube, 10/10, highly recommend)

worst parts of the experience:

1.) trying to drive in moncton

2.) trying to find parking in moncton

3.) trying to temporarily exist in moncton for a few hours without getting stabbed

4.) look okay i just wanted to talk shit about moncton, idk how y'all do it lmao

[supplyside]

CN Tower under construction

[navysealt4t]

hii hestia i would all your thoughts on conner & co. from dbh pretty plsss :D /nf

DUDE IM SO. HEAD IN HANDS. i’ve literally been reading fanfic all day i can’t get this game outta my head .

i love connor so much like omg. me and my cousins played the game very pacifist and got a pretty good ending (only simon and luther died :(( but the rebellion succeeded and kara and alive r safe!! and connor deviated) but just like. i will forever think about hank and connor. i just know connor has so much guilt from everything he did to work against the deviants, but also like !!! he doesn’t have a mission anymore and he doesn’t know who he is . like thinking about how u can pre construct attack options as a game mechanic - he totally does that whenever he panics bc he’s trying to be soft and shit. also . touchstarved. 100%. i just. sigh. man i love characters that lose everything that they called their identity and they have to build themself a new one and it’s terrifying and they don’t know how. i love when characters who aren’t human learn humanity from themself and other around them and the love . like. he isn’t human but he’s alive. he wants to live, he just doesn’t know how. gah . that’s what bank is there for ^_^ i love them sm

and MARKUS ‼️‼️‼️ having humanity from carl just to have it ripped away from him BY HUMANS…. he gets quite bitter and i love it and it hurts so bad . i understand why many ppl chose him to be like. violent in the revolution but i was just constantly thinking… he always goes back to carl as his basis for humanity and he can’t hurt them like they’ve hurt him. (he’d be justified tho 🫶) also i. i think if u choose to be violent, markus should get with north, but if you choose to be pacifist, markus should get with josh. HIM AND JOSH JUST HAD SO KUCH MORE CHEMISTRY IN THE PACIFIST ROUTE IMO. i love markus sm tho. he has no clue what he’s doing but he’s the leader of the revolution so he can’t break down. he does that in private ^_^ also i loved the like. 3 times markus and connor interact like oh my goddddd. ALSO CONNOR IN THAT BEANIE AHHHHHH . PUT HIM IN HUMAN CLOTHES RN

[cityscapes-landscapes]

Montréal

[abinavgoyal]

10 Must-Know Tips for Successful Building Construction in Canada

Are you planning a building construction project in Canada? Whether you’re a seasoned builder or a novice in the construction industry, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest tips to ensure a successful project. In this article, we will share ten must-know tips to help you achieve just that.

From obtaining the necessary permits to hiring reliable contractors, we will guide you through every step of the process. Our tips will cover crucial aspects such as project planning, budgeting, material selection, and site management. We will also provide insights into Canadian building codes and regulations to help you stay compliant and avoid any legal issues.

By following these tips, you can streamline your construction project, minimize costs, and maximize efficiency. Whether you’re constructing a residential building, commercial facility, or industrial structure, our expert advice will equip you with the knowledge you need to succeed.

Don’t let your construction project become a nightmare. Read on to discover the essential tips that will help you achieve a successful building construction project in Canada.

Importance of successful building construction

Successful building construction is vital for various reasons. It ensures the safety and well-being of occupants, enhances the aesthetic appeal of the structure, and contributes to the overall development of the community. A well-constructed building also increases its value and provides a solid foundation for future renovations or expansions.

Understanding the Canadian construction industry

Before embarking on a construction project in Canada, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the country’s construction industry. Canada has a robust and highly regulated construction sector that adheres to strict building codes and standards. Understanding the construction landscape will help you navigate the process more efficiently and avoid any potential pitfalls.

Building regulations and permits in Canada

Obtaining the necessary permits and adhering to building regulations is crucial to ensure compliance and avoid legal issues. In Canada, each province and territory has its own set of building codes and regulations. Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements in your jurisdiction and ensure that your construction plans align with these regulations. Engaging with local authorities and building inspectors can provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the process.

Hiring the right construction team

One of the keys to a successful building construction project is assembling the right team. Hiring experienced and reputable professionals, including architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors, is essential. Conduct thorough research, check references, and review past projects to ensure that the individuals or companies you choose are qualified, reliable, and have a track record of delivering high-quality work.

Creating a comprehensive construction plan

A well-defined and detailed construction plan is the foundation of a successful project. Start by outlining the project’s objectives, scope, and timeline. Identify the required resources, including labor, materials, and equipment, and create a budget that considers all aspects of the construction process. A comprehensive plan will help you stay organized, manage expectations, and mitigate potential risks.

Ensuring safety and compliance during construction

Safety should always be a top priority in construction projects. Implementing proper safety protocols, providing adequate training to workers, and ensuring compliance with Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations are crucial steps. Regular inspections and ongoing monitoring throughout the construction process will help identify and address any safety concerns promptly.

Managing construction timelines and budgets

Effective project management is essential to keep construction timelines and budgets on track. Regularly review project progress, identify any delays or cost overruns, and take corrective actions as necessary. Proper planning, communication, and coordination among all stakeholders will help minimize disruptions and ensure that the project stays within budget and is completed on time.

Using sustainable building practices

Sustainable building practices are becoming increasingly important in the construction industry. Consider incorporating energy-efficient technologies, using environmentally friendly materials, and implementing waste management strategies. Sustainable construction not only reduces the environmental impact but also offers long-term cost savings through reduced energy consumption and maintenance.

Leveraging technology in construction projects

Technology has revolutionized the construction industry, offering new tools and processes that can enhance productivity and efficiency. Embrace technology solutions such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), project management software, and drones for site inspections. These tools can streamline communication, improve collaboration, and provide real-time data for better decision-making.

Case studies of successful building construction projects in Canada

Examining case studies of successful building construction projects in Canada can provide valuable insights and inspiration. Learn from the experiences of others, understand the challenges they faced, and analyze the strategies they employed to achieve success. Case studies can offer practical tips and lessons learned that can be applied to your own construction project.

Don’t let your construction project become a nightmare. By following these ten must-know tips, you can streamline your construction project, minimize costs, and maximize efficiency. Whether you’re constructing a residential building, commercial facility, or industrial structure, our expert advice will equip you with the knowledge you need to succeed.

Remember, successful building construction requires careful planning, attention to detail, and collaboration with the right professionals. With the right approach, your construction project in Canada will be a testament to your expertise and dedication. Start implementing these tips today and pave the way for a successful construction journey.

[allthecanadianpolitics]

Ontario developers have launched a legal challenge against the City of Toronto, questioning its authority to impose construction “green standards”— rules to ensure new buildings are energy efficient, minimize emissions and accomodate pedestrians and bikes. The Residential Construction Council of Ontario — a non-profit industry association representing residential builders — filed the challenge at the Ontario Superior Court on Nov. 19. In it, the association argues the City of Toronto is overstepping its powers by enacting rules over “the manner of construction and construction standards.” The association is asking the provincial court to prohibit the city from imposing those standards and any others in the future that would dictate construction requirements beyond the Ontario building code. Close to 30 municipalities have instituted such standards in recent years, as the Doug Ford government has delayed introducing them provincially in its push to speed up housing development.

Continue reading

Tagging: @newsfromstolenland

[uglyandtraveling]

Discovering Little Canada in Toronto: A Tiny World of Big Adventures!

Explore Little Canada in Toronto! Discover iconic landmarks, stunning miniatures, and interactive fun in this unique Canadian attraction. A must-visit gem!

[existennialmemes]

Don't forget to smash your clocks tonight!

Abandon the Concept of Time!

✨🕒 Be Free 🕘✨

[bopinion]

2025 / 08

Aperçu of the week

“I want them to give us something for all of the money that we put up. We're asking for rare earth and oil, anything we can get.”

(US President Donald Trump subsequently puts a price tag on the previous government's support for Ukraine)

Bad News of the Week

In contrast to the presidential election in the USA last November - where there was occasionally reason to hope that there would be no return of a political revenant - we Germans knew exactly what we were in for in the parliamentary elections, in which the executive is elected at the same time. The leading candidate Friedrich Merz of the conservatives (CDU/CSU) would win and would then be able to form a mathematical majority with the Social Democrats (SPD - likely) or the Greens (unlikely). The far right (AfD) would double its share of the vote and become the largest opposition party. Of the smaller Die Linke, the Liberals (FDP) and left-wing populists (BSW), only the first party would make it into the Bundestag, while the other two would be relegated to insignificance. The rest - from the pro-European Volt (a pity) to the right-wing populist Free Voters (well...) to clientele parties such as the Party of Bible-believing Christians - are gathered in the “Others” category. And that's how it turned out.

It is interesting, but also regrettable, to look at the generations. The older and elderly prefer to vote on the right, the young on the left. The so-called youth vote (14 to 17-year-olds) was led by the Left and the SPD last weekend, with the CDU/CSU and AfD in third and fourth place - and the Animal Welfare Party won more votes than the FDP and the BSW. In other words, this is exactly the kind of mood that the average over-60-year-old conservative voter rejects. Example: Almost four times as many CDU/CSU voters are over 70 than under 25. A colleague of mine at work just said on Friday that elections set the course for the future. So you actually vote for your children. He's right - only I would add the grandchildren.

Unfortunately, a line can be drawn just as clearly between the East and the West. The AfD has secured first place in all five eastern German states. The former GDR still feels left behind. And those with a low level of education and a low income in particular tend to see their ballot paper as a lesson to teach - and vote for fundamental opposition. To really show “them up there”. While the earlier shift to the left could still be explained by nostalgia, the current shift to the right is truly frightening. And stupid. After all, analyses show that it is precisely the typical AfD voters who would suffer most from their policies.

Sunday's result now opens up the following coalition options: the strongest coalition would be the conservative CDU/CSU with the far-right AfD - together, this “Austria option” would have a whopping 360 seats out of the 316 needed. In other words, a loose majority, which has so far been categorically ruled out by the chancellor-to-be Friedrich Merz. Whereby evil tongues point out that a) neighboring Austria has already had a conservative-right-wing governing coalition several times, b) the joint vote against migration could have been a test balloon to see whether the approval ratings would suffer (they did not) and c) US Vice President JD Vance only met with two German politicians on the fringes of the Munich Security Conference - the top candidates of the CDU and AfD - and would therefore have the blessing of big (watching) brother for this constellation. My expectation: no.

There is no majority for a coalition without the conservatives. Unless again with the far right, which is definitely out of the question for the Left or the Greens, for example, and most likely for the Social Democrats. This leaves only the “black-red” CDU/CSU and SPD, which together have 328 seats. This is because 293 seats are simply not enough for the “black-green” alliance discussed in the run-up to the election. Theoretically, the due to their party colors so-called “Kenya coalition” of Conservatives, Social Democrats and Greens would remain, but there is simply too little overlap in terms of political content and goals - see our tiresome experience with the traffic light coalition.

In addition to the clear shift to the right - because the CDU under Friedrich Merz no longer has anything to do with the CDU under Angela Merkel - there is a second aspect that makes these elections bad news: the loss of direct mandates. Until now, the winner of each constituency (the so-called first vote) was guaranteed a seat in parliament. If this deviated from the overall result of the party (second vote), this was balanced out by so-called overhang and compensatory mandates. The result was that the Bundestag expanded unexpectedly. A reform per se therefore made perfect sense.

Now, each party only gets as many seats as it is mathematically entitled to based on its share of second votes. These are then allocated to the strongest winners in the constituencies, while the weakest go away empty-handed. The bottom line is that many constituencies will no longer be represented in parliament - currently it looks like 23 (out of 299) constituencies will be left out. The votes of the people there will therefore be worthless. I still don't understand why alternatives were not considered at all. After all, a new layout of larger constituencies would have produced the same result of fewer MPs, but would still represent all regions and voters in the Bundestag. It is no coincidence that MPs are called “representatives of the people” - so they should also represent the (whole!) people.

By the way, a positive side note: the last time there was a voter turnout of almost 84% was after German reunification. And that was 35 years ago. And regardless of the outcome: that's good. Even if all political certainties no longer count, at least the people have delivered.

Good News of the Week

Tomorrow marks the third anniversary of the day Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine. And it could be the last anniversary. Unfortunately, not because the nation under attack was able to successfully defend itself against the aggressor with the help of its supporters. But probably because the most important supporter - the USA - is simply changing sides. Just because its erratic president has a strange penchant for dictatorships. And Europe is not in a position to compensate for this. Because it is not taken seriously by the key players.

“In a world where the right of the stronger applies, it is better to be among the strong,” writes editor-in-chief Dirk Kurbjuweit in an editorial last week in Der Spiegel, the leading German news magazine. And he continues: “Germany cannot be strong on its own, it is too small for that. It can only be strong together with other Europeans, it can only be strong in the EU. One of the most serious mistakes of German politics was that after Helmut Kohl no chancellor was wholeheartedly committed to Europe. (...) Now Europe lacks leadership and cohesion.”

The analysis is correct. On paper, Europe, with its population, its economic power and yes, even its military strength, could act on an equal footing on the world stage. I am deliberately referring to Europe and not the European Union, as the United Kingdom, for example, would not be part of it. And it is not only Germany that has deficits in its European commitment. Many EU members see Europe exclusively as a free trade zone, while others deliberately want to act in a more national and isolationist way. And even France only ever sees itself as primus inter pares. I exclude Belarus, by the way, as this dictatorship only commits to the rules of European values at the Eurovision Song Contest.

For centuries, and when the world felt much smaller, conflicts dominated our continent. From the end of the Second World War until the Russian attack on Ukraine, there was not a single hot war between two countries (because in Yugoslavia it was in fact a matter of internal civil and secessionist wars). 77 years is an eternity in our increasingly fast-moving times. After the end of the Cold War, after the fall of the Iron Curtain, cooperation and cohesion dominated - people looked for common ground and found it.

This can confidently be called a recipe for success. Which is now endangered by two factors. The first is the increasing threat from outside. From the military threat posed by Russia to the security policy risk posed by the withdrawal of the USA and the economic policy attack by China. The second is the increasing threat from within. The aforementioned drifting apart of individual special interests to the detriment of the greater good. This could now come to an end, as external pressure is simply becoming too dominant.

According to Wikipedia, external pressure is the “total pressure that acts on a system from the outside and thus increases its density”. I was always bad at physics. But I always understood that you can't have different opinions about it. After all, the laws of physics are natural laws. In this respect, I hope that the increasing pressure that Europe is experiencing from outside will lead to a consolidation of its community of values. The chances have not been this good for a long time. We can now find a new form of commonality that will make us all stronger. If we recognize our common interest as such and then act accordingly. As the United States of Europe. Come on, let me just dream a little...

Personal happy moment of the week

We celebrated my mother's 87th birthday. A proud age. We were able to celebrate together in an Italian restaurant as both parents were fit enough. They'll also go on a cruise to the Norwegian fjords in a few weeks. It's nice that they can actively enjoy their retirement.

I couldn't care less...

...about the moaning from the housing sector and construction industry about the oh-so-poor framework conditions. Currently, residential building permits are at their lowest level for 14 years. And all this while the housing shortage is getting worse and rental prices - you can't buy anything in this country for a long time - are going through the roof. Housing should be seen as a basic right. I believe that everyone involved has an obligation to be constructive on this in the truest sense of the word.

It's fine with me...

...that Germany complied with all European air quality limits in 2024 - the first time ever. The Federal Environment Agency reports that, following the fine dust limits, all 600 measuring stations have now also complied with the limits for nitrogen dioxide. This positive development, which is primarily based on the use of catalytic converters, must be maintained at all costs. This is because the, according to WHO experts, outdated limit values will be tightened considerably as early as 2030.

As I write this...

...I am delighted that Canada has won the NHL's prestigious “4-Nations-Face-Off” ice hockey tournament. Against the USA, whose president called them the “51st state” in the first leg. “You can't take away our country - and you can't take away our game,” summarized outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, referred to by Trump as ‘Governor Trudeau’. In your face, Donald!

Post Scriptum

It is looking very good that Austria will not be another European country governed by right-wing extremists. First, the Austrian Peoples Party (ÖVP / Österreichische Volkspartei) resisted the temptation to submit to the far-right Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ / Freiheitliche Partei Österreichs / Freedom Party of Austria) in coalition negotiations following its success in the National Council elections at the end of September. Then the Green Federal President Alexander van der Bellen refused to be pressured into considering a minority government or new elections. And now the conservative ÖVP, the social democratic SPÖ and the liberal NEOs are taking positive stock of their initial coalition talks. Van der Bellen even sees them “on the home straight”.

The current ÖVP party chairman Christian Stocker can certainly chalk this up as a success. Because back in January, his predecessor and former Federal Chancellor Karl Nehammer failed at precisely such coalition talks. Now it looks like the first “Zuckerl coalition” (Jelly Bean coalition) which is named after the colorful party colors turquoise, pink and red. I much prefer this sweetness to the sour political program of FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl, who would even have overtaken Hungary's Viktor Orbán on the right with his restrictive “Fortress Austria” stance. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that after turning onto the home straight, they will also make it to the finish line. After all, I would still like to visit our southern neighbor without any stomach ache.

[t0m1sin]

PROFESSIONAL GRAPHIC DESIGN SERVICES

Elevate your brand's visual identity with my expert graphic design solutions! As a seasoned designer, I specialize in crafting:

1. LOGOS : Unique, memorable, and scalable logos that embody your brand's essence.

2. BUSINESS CARDS: Eye-catching, professional cards that make a lasting impression.

3. FLYERS: Compelling, informative flyers that drive attention and conversions.

4. BANNERS: Impactful, visually stunning banners for events, promotions, or advertising.

5. BUSINESS STICKERS: Custom stickers for branding, packaging, or promotional purposes.

6. EMBROIDERED SHIRTS & HATS: Branded apparel for employees, events, or marketing initiatives.

WHY CHOOSE ME?

1. EXPERTISE: Years of experience in graphic design, ensuring high-quality outputs.

2. CREATIVITY: Innovative, out-of-the-box designs that capture your brand's spirit.

3. ATTENTION TO DETAIL: Meticulous attention to ensure precision and accuracy.

4. TIMELY DELIVERY: Quick turnaround times to meet your deadlines.

5. COMPETITIVE PRICING: Affordable rates without compromising on quality.

6. PERSONALIZED SERVICE: Direct communication, ensuring your vision is brought to life.

BENEFITS OF PARTNERING WITH ME

1. ESTABLISH A STRONG BRAND IDENTITY: Consistent, professional visuals that build trust.

2. STAND OUT FROM THE COMPETITION: Unique designs that differentiate your business.

3. INCREASE BRAND RECOGNITION: Memorable logos and materials that resonate with your audience.

4. ENHANCE CREDIBILITY: Professional designs that convey expertise and reliability.

5. BOOST MARKETING EFFORTS: Effective visual materials that drive engagement and conversions.

GET STARTED TODAY!

Ready to elevate your brand's visual presence? Message me to discuss your design needs and let's create stunning visuals that drive success.

LET'S BRING YOUR BRAND TO LIFE!

[unrealcities]

Apropos of absolutely nothing*: there should be more calls to cancel and/or boycott the 2026 World Cup, all things considered.

*By which I mean: apropos of so many things I cannot even count them, much less detail them.

[androdconstruction]

Essential Tools for Professional Builders

In construction projects, professional builders rely on high-quality tools to ensure precision, efficiency, and durability. The right tools make a significant difference in completing tasks safely and efficiently. 

Measuring and Layout Tools

Every great build starts with accuracy. Without precise measurements and layouts, nothing fits together properly. These tools help ensure everything is aligned and measured correctly.

Laser Levels – These are essential for ensuring walls, floors, and foundations are perfectly leveled and aligned. They project a straight beam, making it easy to set reference points over long distances.

Tape Measures – A builder's best friend, tape measures help with quick and accurate measurements for framing, cutting materials, and layout planning.

Chalk Lines – These are used to create straight, visible lines on different surfaces. Chalk lines help guide cuts and installations, especially for flooring and drywall projects.

Cutting and Shaping Tools

From wood to metal, builders need sharp, powerful tools to cut materials precisely.

Circular Saws – These powerful saws are essential for cutting wood, plywood, and framing materials quickly and efficiently. Different blades allow for cutting various materials like plastic or metal.

Table Saws – With a stable base and a powerful motor, table saws allow builders to make precise straight cuts, making them essential for carpentry and cabinetry work.

Reciprocating Saws – Also known as “Sawzalls,” these saws are ideal for demolition work, quickly cutting through wood, drywall, and even metal pipes.

Chisels and Planes – Used for shaping and smoothing wood, chisels help with detailed carpentry work, while planes are excellent for refining rough surfaces and achieving a polished finish.

Fastening and Assembly Tools

For a structure to last, strong and secure connections are essential. These tools allow builders to efficiently join materials.

Nail Guns – Instead of hammering each nail manually, builders use nail guns to speed up framing, roofing, and trim work. These tools ensure strong, secure attachments in a fraction of the time.

Impact Drivers & Drills – Essential for driving screws and bolts, these power tools make assembling structures easier and more efficient, especially for working with dense materials like hardwood or concrete.

Clamps – Holding materials in place during construction is critical, and clamps help secure pieces together while glue sets or screws are installed, preventing movement and ensuring precision.

Masonry and Concrete Tools

Concrete and masonry work require specialized tools to ensure strength, stability, and a smooth finish. These tools help builders work efficiently with cement, stone, and bricks.

Trowels and Floats – Used to spread and smooth out concrete, trowels ensure a polished, professional finish, while floats help compact and level wet concrete.

Concrete Mixers – Manually mixing concrete can be labor-intensive, so mixers automate the process, ensuring the right consistency for pouring slabs, foundations, and sidewalks.

Rebar Cutters and Benders – Concrete needs reinforcement, and these tools allow builders to cut and shape steel reinforcement bars to fit structural designs accurately.

Safety and Protection Gear

Safety is a top priority on any construction site. Proper protective gear ensures that builders can work confidently while minimizing risks and accidents.

Hard Hats & Safety Glasses – Protecting against falling debris and impact hazards, these are mandatory on any construction site to prevent head and eye injuries.

Hearing Protection – Power tools and machinery generate loud noises that can damage hearing over time. Earplugs or earmuffs help reduce exposure to dangerous noise levels.

High-Visibility Clothing – Construction sites can be busy and hazardous, so wearing reflective vests and bright-colored clothing ensures that workers are easily seen, improving overall site safety.

Using the right tools not only makes construction projects more efficient but also ensures that structures are built to last. Professional builders in Bruce Peninsula depend on these essential tools to create high-quality homes and buildings suited to the local environment.

Contact And-Rod Construction Today!

For expert craftsmanship and top-tier professional building in Bruce Peninsula, trust And-Rod Construction. With years of experience, our dedicated team, and the latest tools and techniques, we handle projects with precision and care. Whether you're planning a custom home, a renovation, or a residential build, we ensure durability, functionality, and a flawless finish. Contact And-Rod Construction today to bring your vision to life with trusted expertise and superior workmanship.

[cityscapes-landscapes]

Toronto