In Pembroke, Ontario, certain parking spots now display a new insignia.
The areas outside the Pembroke OPP station at 77 International Dr. that display the handshake symbol are designed to serve as community safety zones for online transactions.
If you purchase something online and need to meet someone in person to pay for it or pick it up, there are locations you may use to guarantee everyone’s safety, according to the Upper Ottawa Valley OPP.
According to an OPP news release, “Project Safe Trade aims to establish a ‘community safety zone’ at an OPP detachment parking lot to facilitate online property transactions.” “The idea behind establishing a ‘community safety zone’ is to shift online transactions from private parking lots, homes, and other locations to public spaces.”
There is no need for appointments; the secure trading locations will be open at all times.

“The busy holiday season is approaching, making this the perfect time for the local launch of Project Safe Trade.” According to Steph Neufeld, commander of the Upper Ottawa Valley OPP detachment, “online property transactions are on the rise, and the UOV OPP is pleased to be initiating a community safety initiative aimed at decreasing offences related to online marketplace transactions.” “Project Safe Trade and other collaborative methods can lessen victimization and harm in our communities.”
Const. Mike Mahon told CTV News that the areas also offer a means of assisting in preventing the potential of becoming a victim of fraud.
“If it seems too good to be true, it probably is,” goes the saying. Particularly if you’re asking that they meet here and they’re really hesitant, then you should be concerned,” he stated.
According to the OPP, police will not function as witnesses, mediators, or providers of documents in relation to transactions. However, if an officer is called, they will come and only get involved if the transaction turns into a criminal case
Fans notice concerning detail in a recent photo of 83-year-old Martha Stewart, leading to widespread comments

Martha Stewart is a well-known personality with a global following, but she recently faced backlash for a social media post that many have deemed “tone-deaf”.
The 83-year-old lifestyle mogul received significant praise earlier this year for her appearance in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue. However, her latest Instagram update has not sparked the same enthusiasm among her audience.
On August 29, Stewart shared a photo from a cruise she took along Greenland’s east coast. The image features her enjoying a cocktail with the caption: “End of the first zodiac cruise from @swanhelleniccruises into a very beautiful fjord on the east coast of Greenland. We actually captured a small iceberg for our cocktails tonight”.

While Stewart likely meant her post to be lighthearted, it quickly drew criticism from followers who felt her use of an iceberg for her drink was insensitive. Many comments flooded in, expressing concern over her reference to a “small iceberg” amid the ongoing climate crisis. One user remarked: “Martha, the ice caps are meltin, don’t put them in your drink”.
Another follower stated: “I generally admire Martha and her extravagant lifestyle, but it feels a bit tone-deaf for wealthy individuals to enjoy cocktails with icebergs while the planet is suffering”. A third commenter humorously pointed out the absurdity of the situation: “As the climate warms due to the greed of a few, billionaires vacation at melting icebergs, scooping them up for cocktails. Sounds like something out of a dystopian novel!”
One user echoed similar sentiments, expressing their disillusionment: “Global warming and melting ice caps, yet we need glacier ice for cocktails?! I’ve been a fan for years, but seeing this while struggling to afford groceries is disheartening”.

Earlier this year, Stewart made headlines for confidently posing in swimwear for the cover of Sports Illustrated. She shared details about her preparation for the shoot, stating: “I didn’t starve myself, but I avoided bread and pasta for a few months”. She also emphasized her commitment to fitness, mentioning her regular Pilates routine.
In a keynote speech at a Las Vegas event, she highlighted the positive reception of her cover, noting that it inspired women of all ages to feel empowered: “The feedback was incredibly encouraging, showing that if I can do it, they can too”. What are your thoughts on Martha’s recent Instagram post? Share your opinions in the comments!
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