I just finished participating in my first darts tournament. It sounded like a fun way to spend a Saturday so I signed up a team from the St. Paul's Council of the Knights of Columbus and we made our way down to Terra Nova Council for 9:30.
It was loads of fun. Of course I hit the rubber and the mat as often as the board. I knew it was going to get interesting when most of the players were into the beer with the first toss.
The first thing I realized was that I had become numerically illiterate over the years. Those triples! Aidan is working on his multiplication tables every night. Forget are you smarter than a fifth grader, try are you smarter than a 3rd grader.
Suffice to say we won a couple of games and lost a lot more.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Friday, March 7, 2008
DANNY IN THE HOT SEAT
George Stroumboulopoulos put Danny Williams in the hot seat on his show The Hour last night.
In the session the guest gets pummeled with as many questions as they can answer for two minutes. Williams' good sense of humour comes shining through. It is a fun segment. If I can find it on YouTube I will post it.
In the session the guest gets pummeled with as many questions as they can answer for two minutes. Williams' good sense of humour comes shining through. It is a fun segment. If I can find it on YouTube I will post it.
Montreal or Toronto? TorontoThe Premier seems to be getting more at ease with these sorts of appearances all the time. He is scheduled to be a judge for "Canada's Next Great Prime Minister" on March 23rd.
Cod Tongues or Fish Cakes? Cod Tongues
Favorite East Coast Expression? What yea at?
Most Trouble You Ever Got Into At School? How Much Time Do You Got? (I got the hands strapped off me)
When You Drive And Talk On The Phone, Are You Holding The Phone With The Left Hand Or The Right Hand? The Left Hand, and trying to get the window down with the right hand.
CLIMATE CHANGE WILL BRING MORE EXTREME WEATHER
Al Gore may find some solace in the soon-to-be released report from Canada's Department of Natural Resources. Leaked details reported by the CBC say the report will focus on the impact that climate change will have on weather and drinking water.
Canada can expect more ice storms, torrential downpours, floods, droughts and landslides, as well as more days of extreme heat and smog.
Gordon McBean, a geography professor at the University of Western Ontario in London, says Canadians will have to adapt to more extreme weather and damaged homes and property, roads and bridges will take a beating, and coastlines in some communities will erode more rapidly than usual.
Another dust bowl for the west! Western Canada, in particular, could face short winters and long, dry summers.
Canada can expect more ice storms, torrential downpours, floods, droughts and landslides, as well as more days of extreme heat and smog.
Gordon McBean, a geography professor at the University of Western Ontario in London, says Canadians will have to adapt to more extreme weather and damaged homes and property, roads and bridges will take a beating, and coastlines in some communities will erode more rapidly than usual.
Another dust bowl for the west! Western Canada, in particular, could face short winters and long, dry summers.
Water levels in rivers in Alberta and British Columbia are already dropping significantly, as are the levels of the Great Lakes. The result could be a shortage of drinking water.
Some scientists in the United States released a study last week saying that Al Gore's charge that extreme weather was tied to climate change was incorrect. Someone may want to forward the link to this story to former Mayor Andy Wells.PANCAKE DIPLOMACY - PART TWO
The 3rd annual pancake breakfast went off without a hitch this morning. Well, I had less syrup than we needed but that problem was quickly solved. Over 500 parents, students, teachers, community leaders, business people, school board officials and politicians visited our school this morning.
Dozens of volunteers helped man the griddles, cut up the fruit and serve up the pancakes and juice. MacDonald's and Breens were great donors.
It is always great to see a community event come together. We have a great sense of community, a new school on the way and all we need now is a bigger catchment area. I cannot understand why Eastern District continues to bus children out of the area when they could walk to Virginia Park Elementary. Now that the planned extension to MQP has been scrapped, we are hopeful that some rezoning will be in the mix.
Dozens of volunteers helped man the griddles, cut up the fruit and serve up the pancakes and juice. MacDonald's and Breens were great donors.
It is always great to see a community event come together. We have a great sense of community, a new school on the way and all we need now is a bigger catchment area. I cannot understand why Eastern District continues to bus children out of the area when they could walk to Virginia Park Elementary. Now that the planned extension to MQP has been scrapped, we are hopeful that some rezoning will be in the mix.
SEX AND BOILED EGGS!
We recently purchased an egg timer as a tool for measuring time-outs and to time-share usage of the Wii. Perhaps it might be used to time other things.
The International Journal of Sexual Medicine is running article today about how long sex should last. A recent study done in the USA and Canada says the best sex should last between seven and 13 minutes. Three minute sex is adequate.
Americans expect penetrative sex to last between 15 and 20 minutes, even though self=reports indicate it is over in less than half this time. It appears that many men and women have the fantasy that men have large penises, rock-hard erections, and can sustain sexual activity all night long. It is a perception that is leading to disappointment and dissatisfaction in the bedrooms of the nation.
Perhaps we can take some advice from Mr. Breakfast. It seems to me that the time and method for soft boiling eggs and sex has a lot in common.
The International Journal of Sexual Medicine is running article today about how long sex should last. A recent study done in the USA and Canada says the best sex should last between seven and 13 minutes. Three minute sex is adequate.
Americans expect penetrative sex to last between 15 and 20 minutes, even though self=reports indicate it is over in less than half this time. It appears that many men and women have the fantasy that men have large penises, rock-hard erections, and can sustain sexual activity all night long. It is a perception that is leading to disappointment and dissatisfaction in the bedrooms of the nation.
Perhaps we can take some advice from Mr. Breakfast. It seems to me that the time and method for soft boiling eggs and sex has a lot in common.
- Remove desired number of eggs from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
- Place eggs in a small sauce pan and add just enough water to completely cover eggs.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil. Covering the pan will lead to a quicker boil and is recommended.
- Immediately reduce heat to simmer and remove the cover from the pan.
- The amount of time the eggs are allowed to simmer will determine the degree to which the yolk is cooked. A cooking time of less than 4 minutes is not recommended.
Soft-cooked runny yolk:
5 minutes (4 minutes for medium eggs; 6 minutes for extra-large eggs)
Medium-cooked creamy partially-firm yolk:
7 minutes (6 minutes for medium eggs; 8 minutes for extra-large eggs) - Carefully remove the pan from the stove top and place beneath the kitchen faucet. Run cool water into the pan for a minute until the water is cool to the touch. This reduces the temperature enough so the eggs won't continue to cook under their own internal heat. It also brings them down to a more appropriate serving temperature.
THE CONSERVATIVES SCARE ME
Yesterday folks in St. John's West- Mt. Pearl received a piece of mail from their Conservative MP, Loyola Hearn. The cover depicts a scruffy male adult, slouched back on a sofa with a beer in one hand and a cigarette in another. The caption reads "Jail".
Inside the question is asked in big bold letters
They go on to say Liberals are soft on crime and Conservatives want to keep criminals in jail where they belong. It is an in-your-face propaganda tool. Putting the word websites in quotations implicitly suggests that these people are visiting seedy sites. The whole flyer is offensive on a bunch of levels.
Consider the fracas in the House of Commons yesterday that resulted in NDP MP Thomas Mulcair losing his temper when he was heckled by Conservative Gerald Keddy. Mulcair was reading a statement about a Malaysian man whom the government is deporting to his home country. The man faces the possibility of time in prison and whipping for committing homosexual acts. The man has previously been imprisoned in his home country for being a homosexual.
Is this man a victim of the Conservative government’s indifference because of his sexual orientation and because of his ethnic origin? Will I be getting a flyer from some Conservative with a picture of some "stereotypical" homosexual on the front and a note inside on how it is an affront to god and we need to change the laws. Sure, Harper needs a majority all right.
These guys really scare me
Inside the question is asked in big bold letters
Why should convicted thieves, arsonists and vandals serve their sentences watching TV, playing video games, and surfing "websites" on the internet?
They Shouldn't.
The Conservative Government Supports Ending House Arrest for Serious Offenses.
They go on to say Liberals are soft on crime and Conservatives want to keep criminals in jail where they belong. It is an in-your-face propaganda tool. Putting the word websites in quotations implicitly suggests that these people are visiting seedy sites. The whole flyer is offensive on a bunch of levels.
Consider the fracas in the House of Commons yesterday that resulted in NDP MP Thomas Mulcair losing his temper when he was heckled by Conservative Gerald Keddy. Mulcair was reading a statement about a Malaysian man whom the government is deporting to his home country. The man faces the possibility of time in prison and whipping for committing homosexual acts. The man has previously been imprisoned in his home country for being a homosexual.
Is this man a victim of the Conservative government’s indifference because of his sexual orientation and because of his ethnic origin? Will I be getting a flyer from some Conservative with a picture of some "stereotypical" homosexual on the front and a note inside on how it is an affront to god and we need to change the laws. Sure, Harper needs a majority all right.
These guys really scare me
FIGHTING FIRES IN RURAL NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR
A few days after government offered volunteer firefighters special license plates as a token of appreciation for their selfless commitment to protecting families and properties across this vast province, the very real impact of staffing rural fire departments is being discussed.
The Association of Fire Services, MNL and the Department of Municipal Affairs have struck a working committee that is meeting today to discuss the recruitment and retention issues facing community volunteer fire departments. In the past, P&P has posted examples of concerns about the impact of outmigration and the Alberta waltz which are leaving fire halls without members to fight fires.
It is a vexing question for all involved.
The Association of Fire Services, MNL and the Department of Municipal Affairs have struck a working committee that is meeting today to discuss the recruitment and retention issues facing community volunteer fire departments. In the past, P&P has posted examples of concerns about the impact of outmigration and the Alberta waltz which are leaving fire halls without members to fight fires.
It is a vexing question for all involved.
WHAT GOES UP MUST COME DOWN OR DOES IT?
Wait for the next poll boys, he is a train wreck waiting to happen! He is gonna fall like a lead balloon. I wish I had a quarter for every time I've heard that logic from some of my old friends in the opposition since Danny Williams was elected leader of the P.C. Party and then Premier.
The latest Corporate Research Associates Poll show the premier's support continues to grow to unprecedented heights. For his handful of critics it must be galling. The polls have to be wrong! Too much weight is placed on the results in St. John's. Shoot the messenger, or at the very least poke holes in the polling methods.
The reality is the people of the province like this premier. Yes, Liberals, New Democrats and particularly progressive Conservatives respect him. All fluff no stuff some will argue! The battle with Ottawa over an equitable arrangement that sees us benefit and prosper over the long term from our non-renewable resources is not a red herring, it is something most of us support.
The public feel that Williams has the best interests of the province and future generations at heart. It's a love in, and for the most of the last seven years, that's the way it has been.
The opposition parties say they are not surprised. They realize the Premier is popular. The Liberals are rebuilding at glacial speed. They see no need to have an elected leader. When Danny wrecks some name will step forward and bring the party back to power. Yes boy, there is no need to worry. Some clique or another will simply grab control of the brand at the right time. That's what it is really all about when we really only have two parties. The New Democrats and the Liberal/Progressive Conservatives.
It is a mistake. To rebuild the party needs a real leader and a real vision to provide direction. The concept of a series of caucus-appointed and executive board rubber stamped interim leaders is a sure recipe for rigor mortis. A leader needs a mandate to lead, not a leash and a collar.
Perhaps the opposition leader should find a way to bulk postage her letter to the editor of the Telegram a few weeks ago to every home in the province. The message does not seem to be getting through.
The hard working, ultra-democratic Liberal Party of Newfoundland is not getting any respect while Danny Williams soars. That's the rub!
The latest Corporate Research Associates Poll show the premier's support continues to grow to unprecedented heights. For his handful of critics it must be galling. The polls have to be wrong! Too much weight is placed on the results in St. John's. Shoot the messenger, or at the very least poke holes in the polling methods.
The reality is the people of the province like this premier. Yes, Liberals, New Democrats and particularly progressive Conservatives respect him. All fluff no stuff some will argue! The battle with Ottawa over an equitable arrangement that sees us benefit and prosper over the long term from our non-renewable resources is not a red herring, it is something most of us support.
The public feel that Williams has the best interests of the province and future generations at heart. It's a love in, and for the most of the last seven years, that's the way it has been.
The opposition parties say they are not surprised. They realize the Premier is popular. The Liberals are rebuilding at glacial speed. They see no need to have an elected leader. When Danny wrecks some name will step forward and bring the party back to power. Yes boy, there is no need to worry. Some clique or another will simply grab control of the brand at the right time. That's what it is really all about when we really only have two parties. The New Democrats and the Liberal/Progressive Conservatives.
It is a mistake. To rebuild the party needs a real leader and a real vision to provide direction. The concept of a series of caucus-appointed and executive board rubber stamped interim leaders is a sure recipe for rigor mortis. A leader needs a mandate to lead, not a leash and a collar.
Perhaps the opposition leader should find a way to bulk postage her letter to the editor of the Telegram a few weeks ago to every home in the province. The message does not seem to be getting through.
The hard working, ultra-democratic Liberal Party of Newfoundland is not getting any respect while Danny Williams soars. That's the rub!
DO AS I SAY NOT AS I DO
The Telegram editorial today looks at the hypocrisy in recent provincial government decisions related to safety. There seems to be one set of rules and expectations for government facilities and another for private facilities. The nexus of the discussion is sprinkler systems and weight limits for trucks.
There does appear to be one set of rules for those that enforce the rules and another set of rules for those they regulate. The Government has not had a good couple of weeks from the vantage point of the Editorial page of the Telegram.
Hypocrisy — insincerity by virtue of pretending to have qualities or beliefs that you do not really have.” — Definition of hypocrisy from thefreedictionary.com
There does appear to be one set of rules for those that enforce the rules and another set of rules for those they regulate. The Government has not had a good couple of weeks from the vantage point of the Editorial page of the Telegram.
KNIGHTS IN ACTION
The organization that I have the longest track record with celebrates its 100th anniversary in this province this year. The Knights of Columbus is one of the province's oldest service organizations.
On Wednesday we marked our 100th anniversary by helping Daffodil Place in a special way. The Knights of Columbus are donating 50-thousand dollars to the campaign.
We have a history of community involvement. Cancer impacts everyone and assisting to make Daffodil Place a reality is something I am pleased to see the Knights commit to.
Our council, St. Paul's, has committed $2,000 to the project.
On Wednesday we marked our 100th anniversary by helping Daffodil Place in a special way. The Knights of Columbus are donating 50-thousand dollars to the campaign.
We have a history of community involvement. Cancer impacts everyone and assisting to make Daffodil Place a reality is something I am pleased to see the Knights commit to.
Our council, St. Paul's, has committed $2,000 to the project.
PANCAKE DIPLOMACY
The Virginia Park Elementary School Council has our annual community pancake breakfast this morning at the school. I’ll be flipping pancakes and hiding behind the grill from 7-8.
We started doing this a few years ago when it looked like the school was going to close and we wanted to illustrate to the powers-that-be that the school was the anchor of the community. It has turned into a big event. Municipal, provincial and school board officials always attend.
This year's event comes the day after we learned that the boards new draft multi-year plan does not include any changes to our catchment area. Which means our intake will not change. When schools have fewer than 300 students, they can't afford to hire many of the support staff full time.
At 400 students, schools can staff an elementary with a full-time principal, librarian and "specialists" to teach art and P.E. They can offer two to three classes per grade, which in addition to flexibility in assigning students to teachers, also gives teachers same-grade colleagues.
In debate on the reform of the denominational education system, a major justification of the reform was to ensure the viability of neighbourhood schools in urban areas.
Obviously we are pleased that the recommendation from phase one to redevelop the school at Virginia Park was reiterated this time around.
I guess we keep up the lobby.
We started doing this a few years ago when it looked like the school was going to close and we wanted to illustrate to the powers-that-be that the school was the anchor of the community. It has turned into a big event. Municipal, provincial and school board officials always attend.
This year's event comes the day after we learned that the boards new draft multi-year plan does not include any changes to our catchment area. Which means our intake will not change. When schools have fewer than 300 students, they can't afford to hire many of the support staff full time.
At 400 students, schools can staff an elementary with a full-time principal, librarian and "specialists" to teach art and P.E. They can offer two to three classes per grade, which in addition to flexibility in assigning students to teachers, also gives teachers same-grade colleagues.
In debate on the reform of the denominational education system, a major justification of the reform was to ensure the viability of neighbourhood schools in urban areas.
Obviously we are pleased that the recommendation from phase one to redevelop the school at Virginia Park was reiterated this time around.
I guess we keep up the lobby.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
LOONEY TUNES AND THE RACE FOR THE DEMOCRATIC NOMINEE
Now here's the Obama-Clinton parallel: In every modern presidential election in which the candidates have personified a clear choice between Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, Bugs has prevailed.
Nancy sent me this link to an article at Slate called "Bugs Bunny vs Daffy Duck." The author, Jeff Greenfield, posted this on Tuesday before the results of the primaries were known but the logic is still relevant.
Enjoy it!
WHERE IS THE TIPPING POINT?
Talking about happiness and depression, gasoline prices could rise to about $1.40 a litre within a few months if record oil prices remain fixed and demand increases with the summer driving period. Oil hit a new record today trading at $105.97 US a barrel!
CBC looks at the potential for buck and half a litre oil this summer.
Every time fuel prices rise I react with shock. At one point my consumption dropped but after a while I just adapted to it and continue with old habits.
At what point do we change our patterns. Will I start riding a bike to work? Sounds good, but will I? It makes a lot of sense from an economic, environmental and health perspective...but will I. Will people start using public transit in this city? We have one of the lowest rates of public transportation usages in the country? Why is that?
CBC looks at the potential for buck and half a litre oil this summer.
Every time fuel prices rise I react with shock. At one point my consumption dropped but after a while I just adapted to it and continue with old habits.
At what point do we change our patterns. Will I start riding a bike to work? Sounds good, but will I? It makes a lot of sense from an economic, environmental and health perspective...but will I. Will people start using public transit in this city? We have one of the lowest rates of public transportation usages in the country? Why is that?
Research into happiness isn't a traditional subject for psychology, but it's become something of a hot topic. The news yesterday that yet another study questions the effectiveness of anti-depressants has people examining what happiness is and at what levels are optimum.
Yesterday on the drive home local CBC Radio discussed a recent happiness study with the host of Quirks & Quarks. In this study people judged their personal happiness on a sliding scale. The gist was that most people are at a 6 or 7 and that is about where you should be. People that are too happy may not be as productive and attentive as those a little lower down the scale.
They also discussed the return of one of the most effective treatments against depression, electroconvulsive - or shock - therapy! The stigma associated with mental illness has started to fade away and the popular misconceptions about shock therapy are falling away to allow the controversial therapy to make a comeback.
Quirks & Quarks airs Saturday right after the noon news on Radio One.
PLATES FOR FIRE FIGHTERS BUT WHAT ABOUT FIRE FIGHTERS FOR FIRE HALLS
The Province's Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs' gesture to volunteer firefighters in the form of a special license plate is being warmly received by the Association of Fire Services.
Municipal Affairs Minister Dave Denine unveiled the new plate yesterday and presented the first one at the CBS south fire hall in Kelligrews. I am sure that the men and women who volunteer as fire fighters will appreciate this special gesture. Every volunteer fire fighter in the province is looking for their new plate today.
In its release ,the Province says it has contributed nearly $1 million ttowards volunteer fire departments this year. This will be a nice boost to morale, but what about the issues being faced in places like Marystown and other towns around this province where out-migration and an aging population have decimated the ranks of fire halls and fire protection is in jeopardy?
Municipal Affairs Minister Dave Denine unveiled the new plate yesterday and presented the first one at the CBS south fire hall in Kelligrews. I am sure that the men and women who volunteer as fire fighters will appreciate this special gesture. Every volunteer fire fighter in the province is looking for their new plate today.
In its release ,the Province says it has contributed nearly $1 million ttowards volunteer fire departments this year. This will be a nice boost to morale, but what about the issues being faced in places like Marystown and other towns around this province where out-migration and an aging population have decimated the ranks of fire halls and fire protection is in jeopardy?
OPPOSITION WANTS MOVEMENT
Liberal Leader Yvonne Jones is concerned about the lack of progress with offshore oil projects. She told VOCM news that the failure to finalize deals for the expansions at Hibernia South and the development of Hebron-Ben Nevis is to blame for Hibernia's lay-off of 50 people this week.
She is suggesting government get moving on these files.
She is suggesting government get moving on these files.
OPINION LEADERS - WHEN HAVE MEANS MORE HAVE NOTS
When 'have' means more 'have nots'
The Aurora
The Aurora
No one likes to see the price of gas go up but it's something that many people are getting use to. Not because they accept the atrocious cost but simply because there's seems to be little anyone can do about it unless you make government decisions.
One option for the provincial government-though not a likely notion they'd take-is to drop its taxes off. This provincial government has .16 cents tacked on every litre of gas purchased. Add that to the federal .10 cents excise tax and another .14 cents for HST and that amounts to a big part of the expense at the pumps.
No matter how much governments like to blame it all on world oil prices, it's certainly is not all about global demands and markets.
Our own government is gouging us. The profits this province will receive in non-renewable resources this year alone will rake in at close to $2 billion. It seems an unnecessary evil to take part in a tax-gouging gimmick that has people paying $1.20 per litre that would cost them 79 cents per litre without the government's gouging.
Many people are conserving these days, buying small cars with smaller engines, taking less leisurely family drives, not driving to see relatives or even walking to work.
In a number of ways we can control and reduce the amount of gas we consume.
The biggest hit though comes to those relying on furnace oil to heat homes. In Labrador West not many rely on that source of heat but many have relatives and loved ones in other parts of the province that are bearing the load of home heating costs.
Last week the cost of furnace oil climbed setting a record in this province rising by almost 3.5 cents per litre.
Depending on what part of the province a person lives who relies on furnace heat, the cost can now range form 94.16 cents to $1.11 cents per litre.
That's a rise of about 23 cents since this time last year. It's a safe guess it's costing as much to as $600 to heat an average size home this winter for those depending on furnace oil.
That figure alone can cause anyone to conjure up very sad images especially of seniors on fixed incomes.
We can visualize seniors bundled up in blankets, going to bed very early and staying in very late because their homes are too cold to be comfortable.
Seniors cutting their groceries in half in order not to freeze to death. They are forced to be half fed and in order to be half warm.
The little old widow who lives alone who once looked forward to her weekly game of bingo can no longer go because that money must now go to the extra cost of her oil bill.
The grandparents that can no longer afford to buy Christmas gifts to bestow on their grandchildren.
The simple things in life are what this unfair burden can take away from those who least deserve the chain of taxes that government hangs around our necks.
It's a heavy levy for all who are forced to fork over the amounts that are truly more than necessary but it's almost sinful when it kicks the vulnerable of our province squarely into the gut.
Isn't it ironic that many of our seniors can't afford to live a quality form of life in this 'have' province that they've waited so long for? In all fairness, those are the ones who fought longest for this 'have' status we are experiencing today. It's absolutely shameful and if nothing is said or done, more will live out their golden years cold and hungry and longing for the days when 'have not' was a lot warmer and a little kinder.
OPINION LEADERS - TAKING A SECOND LOOK
Last Thursday, the Conservative government's Tackling Violent Crime Act [Bill C-2] received Royal Assent and became law.
The Conservatives touted these changes to Canada's Criminal Code, saying they would better protect citizens against those who commit serious and violent crimes.
Under the changes, there will be longer mandatory jail time for serious gun crimes; and new bail provisions requiring those accused of serious gun crimes to show why they shouldn't be kept in jail while awaiting trial.
The new law also increases the age of consent for sexual activity with someone at least two years older, from 14 to16-years-old; increases sentencing and monitoring of dangerous, high-risk offenders; finds new ways to detect and investigate drug-impaired driving; and imposes stronger penalties for impaired driving.
While these reforms have a feel-good ring to them, especially for a government based in ultra-rightwing ideologies, they deserve a closer inspection.
For those people who commit serious gun crimes or have sex with underage youth, tougher jail sentences are unlikely to deter them from committing these crimes.
If a Canadian citizen actually has the mindset to carry around a gun and take out innocent lives with it - or take sexual advantage of an underage person - it's unlikely they keep themselves abreast of what sort of penalties they face if caught.
Even if offenders are kept away from the general public for longer periods of time, one wonders how that will actually benefit society in the long run.
These people will likely be freed at some point, and those long sentences are likely to further 'harden' these criminals - possibly make them just as likely to re-offend when reintroduced into society.
What was lacking from the government's reform was any sort of extra plans to aid in the rehabilitation of offenders.
If criminals are going to be kept away from society for long periods of time, it would be beneficial if they can somehow be helped to become law-abiding and productive members of society when released.
In conjunction with that, the government should also be looking for the root causes of criminal activity - finding out what exactly makes a person commit serious crimes in the first place.
What they would likely find with these offenders, and even those charged with lesser offenses, are alarming backgrounds of abuse and neglect.
A young man was sentenced at Stephenville Provincial Court recently for his role in a robbery.
In the pre-sentencing report, it was noted this person was neglected and abused by his mother and others from a very early age, and was bounced in and out of foster care - all of which was noted to manifest itself into his troubling conduct.
His attorney also noted while this teenager needs to learn accountability for his actions, he should also be given the opportunity to be re-educated on what is acceptable in Canadian society.
While it may not sound overly voter-friendly, helping criminals cultivate lives as productive members of society is by far more beneficial than just leaving them to fester in jail for extended periods of time.
OPINION LEADERS - TIME FOR A RECKONING
Hindsight, unfortunately, will not raise the dead.
There's no saving Larry Parsons and Christopher Oram, who perished at sea when their tugboat went down off Baccalieu Island last month.
However, information released by the coast guard following the tragedy leaves the families of these two men to constantly dwell on the most distressing of questions, What if?
According to coast guard officials, the two men were in the water and appeared to be alive when the Cormorant helicopter arrived on the scene.
Yet, the helicopter crew determined it would be safer to wait for a nearby coast guard fast rescue craft.
By the time that vessel arrived 15 minutes later, both men had succumbed to the freezing north Atlantic. Their survival suits had filled with water and, unbeknownst to the helicopter crew, the men were dying of hypothermia while the helicopter hovered.
This tragedy is just one more chink in the waning confidence Newfoundland and Labrador mariners have in rescue operations.
In September 2005, four men drowned when the Melina and Keith II rolled over and sank on the northeast coast. All four men survived the initial sinking, but when the hull they were standing on eventually slipped beneath the waves, they were lost forever.
The 'what if' their families live with is the 'What if the coast guard rescue helicopter had arrived sooner?'
In that tragedy we learned that helicopter crews are on standby during normal business hours and can be airborne in 30 minutes.
But if you happen to run into trouble on the sea after the coast guard's normal working hours, it will take crews one or two hours to respond to your emergency distress signal.
When the Ryan's Commander went down off Cape Bonavista on a stormy night in 2006, the coast guard helicopter that was dispatched to help ran into trouble with the hoist used to lift the men out of the water.
No one can say for sure whether the hoist trouble led to the loss of two lives. But in an emergency situation, every second counts.
No doubt, the families of the Ryan brothers have their own 'what ifs' to live with.
We are a province bounded by the ocean, with marine traffic passing by our shores at all hours of practically every day of the year and oil rigs pumping wealth from sea. Hundreds of people, men and women, who hope to return home safe to their families are working on board those ships and rigs.
Our waters are important highways and workplaces, thanks to oil exploration, fishing and the transportation of goods. It is time for Ottawa to consider marine emergency services as an integral part of that system. It's time for a reckoning of how the coast guard search and rescue system operates and how it can be improved.
Ottawa is now tasked with restoring faith in this service. They can start with the addition of sufficient personnel to ensure there's always a standby crew, and by ensuring the equipment used by the crews is top notch and up-to-date.
They can begin by acknowledging the importance of the coast guard service to Newfoundland and Labrador and its role in saving lives.
And they have to start the process of improvement now before another family is faced with having to live with 'what if?'
OPINION LEADERS - TAMING THE PAPER TIGER
Taming the paper tiger
One hopes the provincial government does well in recycling its paper – after all, it’s accusing Ottawa, and particularly Fisheries Minister Loyola Hearn, of recycling its funding announcements.BY SUE HICKEY
TRANSCONTINENTAL COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS
TRANSCONTINENTAL COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS
What made news throughout the media really didn’t turn out to be news at all.
Take Peterview, for example, the subject of a release dated Feb. 15, which stated the town was getting money for water work. Turns out, however, the work was actually done months ago.
The result for news organizations across the province was a waste of fax and computer paper.
It goes to show how we really take paper for granted. Newsprint aside, thousands, if not millions of sheets of paper come out of our printers and fax machines a year. At our schools, both grade and post-secondary institutions, wastebaskets are stuffed to overflowing every day.
And our government is wasting even more paper on releases with little validity because they’re old news.
Businesses aren’t exempt either from hand-rearing paper tigers. Most Newfoundlanders don’t bother to do anything about their paper waste, though many are eager to set up bins for beverage containers to be recycled. Some even compost, though they might balk at putting their paper in with their carrot peelings and eggshells.
When the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board was first established, it launched its advertising campaign, all related to being more environmentally response and making this province green in every sense of the word.
But how far have we come?
Give the MMSB credit for promoting environmental ‘do-goodism’, but it seems the heart of its promotions has lain in beverage containers and occasionally cardboard. But where’s the paper chase?
The government really needs to make paper recycling (and composting) a higher priority.
Consider this: 40 per cent of the content of landfills is paper. Not plastic (another evil in its own right, but that’s for another editorial). Not electronics or used appliances. But paper.
One may say, ‘Yes, but paper is biodegradable! You can compost it and if it ends up in a landfill, it rots away anyway.’
But not necessarily. It only decomposes if it’s exposed to oxygen.
One National Geographic article several years ago illustrated this point. A professor and some of his archeology students decided to make New York City’s ‘Fresh Kills’ landfill a project of theirs. They explored, took notes and above all, dug – deep.
They found meat products decades old that hadn’t decayed, because they were deep in the refuse. And they found newspapers – fully intact and readable, some dating back to several decades earlier.
And why? Because they weren’t exposed to oxygen and aerobic bacteria, the friendly kind that helps break down your compost.
So, if the provincial government is really sincere about realistic waste management, they should make a bigger deal about paper. Encourage its employees and Newfoundlanders and Labradorians in general to recycle paper, not consign it to a landfill where it could stay in tact for centuries.
Otherwise, some future historian could find all those damning press releases – and reflect on how stupidity hasn’t really changed over centuries.
SCIENCE FAIR MEMORIES
An article in the Southern Gazette brought back some fond memories. The article by Paul Herridge was about preparations for the Regional Science Fair on the Burin Peninsula. School children have spent hours working on their projects at the school level and now the winners get to compete for a chance to go to the provincials.
My brother Mike and I looked forward to the science fairs. I do not think we missed the regionals and normally made it to the provincials. One year I won at the provincials with a computer program about the Solar System. Personal computers were relatively new in the early and mid 80's and I was really into them.
Mike and his buddy Leo spent all year getting ready for the next science fair. Nothing that generated electricity in our house seemed to be safe. Nothing they took apart was ever rebuilt the same way. From my precious R2-D2 remote controlled robot to mom and dad's hi-fi stereo. It was an excuse to be curious.
What I remember most was the excitement of getting out of St. Bernard's to a bigger centre. The camaraderie, the new friends, movies and malls. They served to open up a bigger world to me.
Of course Mike met his wife at the Regional Science Fairs.
My brother Mike and I looked forward to the science fairs. I do not think we missed the regionals and normally made it to the provincials. One year I won at the provincials with a computer program about the Solar System. Personal computers were relatively new in the early and mid 80's and I was really into them.
Mike and his buddy Leo spent all year getting ready for the next science fair. Nothing that generated electricity in our house seemed to be safe. Nothing they took apart was ever rebuilt the same way. From my precious R2-D2 remote controlled robot to mom and dad's hi-fi stereo. It was an excuse to be curious.
What I remember most was the excitement of getting out of St. Bernard's to a bigger centre. The camaraderie, the new friends, movies and malls. They served to open up a bigger world to me.
Of course Mike met his wife at the Regional Science Fairs.
ET PHONE HOME
It is called the New York Talk Exchange project. Researchers from MIT have designed a project that reveals the complex dynamics of talk that exist between the Big Apple and other cities around the planet.
This is an interesting project from a bunch of perspectives.
"It is like showing how the heart of New York pulsates in real time and how it connects with the global network of cities," said Carlo Ratti, director of the senseable city laboratory and associate professor of the practice of urban technologies at MIT.
"We are interested in visualizing and exploring the connections that New York entertains with the rest of the world, how they change over the course of a day, and how the city's neighborhoods differ from each other by maintaining special and distinct relationships with particular cities and countries," said Kristian Kloeckl, project leader.
This is an interesting project from a bunch of perspectives.
IS THE LOWER CHURCHILL STILL A TREAURE BOX?
Today's editorial in the province's largest daily newspaper may have a few people rethinking the potential of the Lower Churchill as an economic development tool, at least in the short run.
The Telegram comments about a new arrangement that the government of Quebec has entered into with Alcoa to expand aluminum smelting in the province. The deal is worth $1.2 Billion and is built on cheap long-term hydroelectricity.
It raises some interesting questions, opinions anyone?
The Telegram comments about a new arrangement that the government of Quebec has entered into with Alcoa to expand aluminum smelting in the province. The deal is worth $1.2 Billion and is built on cheap long-term hydroelectricity.
Well, beyond the obvious rankling - they're powering Quebec jobs and the Quebec economy with Labrador power - there's the question of what the deal signifies in terms of a change in the long-term economics of new hydro projects like the Lower Churchill.
If markets are softening to the point that long-term, low-cost power deals make sense, we'd better be watching carefully when it comes to what we could get cornered into to make Lower Churchill move ahead. There's also the question of what nearby megaprojects will mean to the availability of skilled workers.
Finally, there's scary notion that just having the juice is not enough.
It has always looked like customers would beat a path to our door. And maybe they will - but maybe they'll want long-term deals and upfront cash, too.
It raises some interesting questions, opinions anyone?
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
THE DREAM TICKET TACTIC
With last night's win, Hillary Clinton's team embarks on a new strategy heading into the next round of voting. She talked about a possible so-called dream team ticket which would feature her and Obama.
She added that what has to be decided is who will be on top and that the choice in Ohio was experience and than means her. The Obama campaign has avoided the issue altogether. They insured that stories of a Bloomberg/Obama ticket made the rounds last week.
I think this is a shrewd move by Clinton. Democrats are obviously divided up the middle. A lot of them are torn. They like both candidates for different reasons, and as the candidates keep pointing out, they are not far apart on the major issues.
If Clinton can get Democrats believing that she will ask Obama to be her running mate than Democrats have the opportunity to get two for one. A vote for Hillary will give them both candidates. It propels Hillary to the top of the list and relegates Obama to second in-command. The real question is what will Obama do? or say? Will he stop dodging the issue and say he will work with Clinton or just flat out say, that is not on with me.
She added that what has to be decided is who will be on top and that the choice in Ohio was experience and than means her. The Obama campaign has avoided the issue altogether. They insured that stories of a Bloomberg/Obama ticket made the rounds last week.
I think this is a shrewd move by Clinton. Democrats are obviously divided up the middle. A lot of them are torn. They like both candidates for different reasons, and as the candidates keep pointing out, they are not far apart on the major issues.
If Clinton can get Democrats believing that she will ask Obama to be her running mate than Democrats have the opportunity to get two for one. A vote for Hillary will give them both candidates. It propels Hillary to the top of the list and relegates Obama to second in-command. The real question is what will Obama do? or say? Will he stop dodging the issue and say he will work with Clinton or just flat out say, that is not on with me.
WHAT'S NEXT FOR PARLIAMENT
A new lease on life. The Conservatives took the initiative on three hot button issues and the opposition gave them a free pass to keep on trucking. An election is not needed constitutionally until October 19, 2009, so the Conservatives have the reins for a while yet.
An article in the Toronto Star today looks at one of the most productive Parliaments in recent memory.
An article in the Toronto Star today looks at one of the most productive Parliaments in recent memory.
TODD RUSSELL VOTES NO!
Labrador Member of Parliament Todd Russell was one of 11 Liberal MP's who showed up to vote on the budget yesterday. True to form, Todd voted against it!
HAVE NOT WILL BE NO MORE, AT LEAST FOR A LITTLE WHILE
The Chronicle Herald has published a story about our province's move into have status in the next year by Newfoundland journalist Greg Locke .
The article quotes economist Wade Locke, who predicts that oil revenues and the nuisances of the new equalization program will mean Newfoundland and Labrador will not be eligible for equalization next year.
He is optimistic that a royalty arrangement for South Hibernia and Hebron will happen as soon as the technical people work out the details.
While Newfoundland and Labrador leads Canada in economic growth based on Gross Domestic Product, the only way we will see the benefits is if the government decides to spend money on infrastructure and other programs.
The article quotes economist Wade Locke, who predicts that oil revenues and the nuisances of the new equalization program will mean Newfoundland and Labrador will not be eligible for equalization next year.
He is optimistic that a royalty arrangement for South Hibernia and Hebron will happen as soon as the technical people work out the details.
While Newfoundland and Labrador leads Canada in economic growth based on Gross Domestic Product, the only way we will see the benefits is if the government decides to spend money on infrastructure and other programs.
FLIP SIDE OF THE EDUCATION COIN
Jennifer Howlett's latest Community Editorial Board commentary in the Telegram sheds light on some of the issues facing schoolchildren that need more enrichment. She talks about parents who have resorted to home schooling because they felt their child's academic needs were being ignored by a system that teaches to the middle.
Integration has come at a cost and she asks the question, are children getting the education they deserve? The article is not online.Publish Post
Let's make school a place where everyone can succeed. Teaching to the middle leaves a lot of kids curbside. That is not the kind of recycling we need.
Integration has come at a cost and she asks the question, are children getting the education they deserve? The article is not online.Publish Post
ROBIN HOOD BAY REGIONAL DUMP PLAN STINKS
A small article, three paragraphs long in today's Telegram caught my attention. The deputy mayor of Mount Pearl says he wants more communication on the Robin Hood Bay Regional Landfill. Apparently the Minister of Municipal Affairs has agreed to hold meetings on the subject for the municipalities that will use the site.
Last fall the the Provincial Government rejected previous studies, reports and consultations by indicating that Robin Hood Bay dump would become the dump for all garbage on the Avalon Peninsula.
I agree with Mr. Lane but I wonder if the Government might feel a little bit like consulting, discussing and sharing their plans with the people of this city, especially those of us that live in the East End of the city where the sulphur smell of the dump looms large.
Last fall the the Provincial Government rejected previous studies, reports and consultations by indicating that Robin Hood Bay dump would become the dump for all garbage on the Avalon Peninsula.
I agree with Mr. Lane but I wonder if the Government might feel a little bit like consulting, discussing and sharing their plans with the people of this city, especially those of us that live in the East End of the city where the sulphur smell of the dump looms large.
WORKFORCE IS GROWING OLDER
Statistics Canada says Canada's workforce is aging.
In 2006 workers aged 55 or older made up 15.3 per cent of the total workforce. That was up from 11.7 per cent in 2001. The median age of the labour force surpassed 40 years for the first time.
In 2006 workers aged 55 or older made up 15.3 per cent of the total workforce. That was up from 11.7 per cent in 2001. The median age of the labour force surpassed 40 years for the first time.
NEWFOUNDLAND MAN GUILTY OF MURDER
It's a day of justice for the family of an Alberta teen who was murdered in 2006. A former resident of Harbour Mille, Colin Winsor was convicted yesterday of the second degree murder of 17 year old Ashton Moen. Another Newfoundlander was arrested last week and transported back to Alberta from his home in Fredericton, NL where he faces charges of manslaughter and indignity to a body.
It was a horrible crime. Two families devastated. I grew up a few communities away from Harbour Mille and know many members of the Winsor family. As a father of three boys I cannot imagine losing a child to murder, nor can I imagine the hopeless and helpless feelings that Winsor's family must have from his unspeakable action.
What a waste of lives.
It was a horrible crime. Two families devastated. I grew up a few communities away from Harbour Mille and know many members of the Winsor family. As a father of three boys I cannot imagine losing a child to murder, nor can I imagine the hopeless and helpless feelings that Winsor's family must have from his unspeakable action.
What a waste of lives.
CLINTON COMES BACK
Hillary Clinton showed her resolve as she bounced back, winning Ohio and Texas last night. The next big battle will be Pennsylvania where delegates are up for grabs on April 22. Two states, Wyoming and Mississippi, will hold their caucuses this month.
Clinton told supporters last night that Ohio was the turning point and she is going to march forward to victory. I am looking forward to reviewing the composition of the vote last night.
I wonder what impact the "free trade leak" from Harper had on the contest in Ohio. Thanks to the leak Obama is seen to have stumbled and mismanaged the NAFTA issue in a state that's been hard hit by companies which have relocated to Mexico.
Obama's free ride may be over. One thing is for sure, this race is a slug fest and will keep going for at least another six weeks.
Clinton told supporters last night that Ohio was the turning point and she is going to march forward to victory. I am looking forward to reviewing the composition of the vote last night.
I wonder what impact the "free trade leak" from Harper had on the contest in Ohio. Thanks to the leak Obama is seen to have stumbled and mismanaged the NAFTA issue in a state that's been hard hit by companies which have relocated to Mexico.
Obama's free ride may be over. One thing is for sure, this race is a slug fest and will keep going for at least another six weeks.
TEXAS STILL TOO CLOSE TO CALL
Okay so it is like 2:10, Texas has still not produced a final vote. Clinton is leading by 2%. Incredible. What happens next? I guess I'll find out when the kids scramble down to the basement and jump all over me at 6:00.
RAIDERS OF DADS WALLET
My guys are big Lego fans and big Indiana Jones fans. I came home from work today to see commercialization in full swing. My youngest two were all excited to see me. Why? Well it appears that there are some new Indy Legos on the market. Mom is not going to fall for the trap. "Peter, we have so many Legos already". But they know I am a kid at heart and an easy mark, so they pour on the charm offensive. My advice guys, talk to nanny, Easter is coming.Of course I already bought a couple of small sets at Toys R Us over the week-end.
In the meantime take a look at the Lego sculpture over at John Gushue's site. Wow! Okay, I had to borrow the picture.
Raiders of The Lost Ark has been playing non-stop over here. June just cannot come fast enough. DUM DUM DUM...
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
A PROLONGED RACE MAY BE TROUBLE FOR DEMS
It looks like Clinton will win Ohio tonight. DNC chair Howard Dean is concerned about the impact that Clinton staying in the race could have on the party's chances to capture the White House.
Alex Koppelman at Salon offered this commentary earlier today:
Alex Koppelman at Salon offered this commentary earlier today:
True, a majority of Democrats may think that Hillary Clinton should stay in the presidential race if she wins one of the big states up for grabs Tuesday night, but Democratic National Committee chairman Howard Dean is reportedly concerned about the effect a continuing battle could have on the party's chances to recapture the White House.
On the Trail, a Washington Post blog, reporter Paul Kane says that in a scheduled meeting last week with Democratic congressional leaders Sen. Harry Reid and Rep. Nancy Pelosi, Dean told Reid and Pelosi of "his concerns that an extended contest could pose potential long-term harm to the party's presidential ticket." Kane sources his story to "several strategists familiar with the closed-door meeting," who reportedly "stressed that Dean was expressing a long-held view that a lengthy primary only hurts the eventual nominee's chances against the Republican Party's candidate."
As Kane notes, all three party leaders have remained officially neutral in the race for the nomination, though surrogates for Reid have supported Clinton while Pelosi surrogates have come out in favor of Barack Obama. Dean's native Vermont is one of four states going to the polls Tuesday; Dean will, Kane says, not even cast a vote in the presidential primary, though he'll vote on other issues
.
ANN COULTER MAY NEED SHOCK THERAPY
Wow, what an interesting political season it has been and we are not even into the main event. John McCain clinched the GOP nomination tonight, exceeding the 1,191 delegates required to win. Mike Huckabee has withdrawn.
President Bush will endorse him at the White House tomorrow. Considered yesterday's man when this primary season began, he is now the Republican Presidential candidate for the 2008 election.
Man I would love to be a fly on the wall at Ann Coulter's tonight. It must be a wrenching night for the fascist neo-conservative who has taken to calling Hillary Clinton the only conservative in the race for president. She has not relented on her criticism of McCain.
in the immortal words of — well, me, actually: Always choose a strong conservative from a blue state over a lukewarm conservative from a red state.
SPERM POWER - O BOY!
Remember that Monty Python song, "Every Sperm Is Sacred," well the comedy troupe had no idea. Apparently scientists are looking at flagellum to provide the bio-medical components to power nanobots and smart implants designed to carry out medical roles within the body!
A tiny assembly line that powers the whip-like tail of sperm propels them forward at 7 inches per hour (I assume that is upstream) and is fueled by adenosine triphosphate which is capable of storing, transferring and releasing energy.
Science, miniaturization, robotics and engineering are amazing. Why did I go into public relations?
A tiny assembly line that powers the whip-like tail of sperm propels them forward at 7 inches per hour (I assume that is upstream) and is fueled by adenosine triphosphate which is capable of storing, transferring and releasing energy.
Science, miniaturization, robotics and engineering are amazing. Why did I go into public relations?
Just back from a much longer than normal night at Toastmasters. It is an interesting night in Texas and Ohio. Clinton looks like she might pull off a decent win in Ohio but Texas could be a clean split. Keep watching the up-dates. One thing for sure these races will not be blowouts for either candidate. That said Texas is not looking good for the Clinton campaign.
She is going to have to a lot of soul searching tonight on who the real enemy is. It has got to be a heart wrenching experience watching years of planning fall apart, false loyalties and the betrayals of friends. It is a nasty cocktail!
JIM FLAHERTY
Nottawa is using modern technology in an effective manner. Check out this short on Finance Minister Jim Flaherty! Good job Mark.
OTTAWA'S DESTRUCTIVE TENDENCIES
James Travers' op/ed piece in today's The Star looks at the destructive and irresponsible record of the Federal Conservatives. He argues the Obama revelation and the war with Ontario's governing liberals will damage Ontario's relationship with the world and Canada's to the U.S.
Of course we here in Canada's most easterly province already know how vindictive and punitive the Harper administration is capable of being.
Of course we here in Canada's most easterly province already know how vindictive and punitive the Harper administration is capable of being.
HEALTH LITERACY MATTERS
Some alarming revelations from a report released by the Canadian Public Health Association yesterday which indicates that more than half of Canadian adults do not have the necessary skills to properly make daily decisions about their health.
Only one in eight seniors has adequate health literacy skills. Recent immigrants, people with low incomes and low levels of education, and people for whom English or French is not a first language are also most likely to struggle with health literacy
Health literacy is defined as the ability to access, understand and use health information, and studies have shown low health literacy is linked to poor health.
The panel recommends a national strategy to improve health literacy skills that may include a multimedia campaign to raise awareness of the issue, integrate health literacy into school curricula and set and monitor specific literacy targets.
Only one in eight seniors has adequate health literacy skills. Recent immigrants, people with low incomes and low levels of education, and people for whom English or French is not a first language are also most likely to struggle with health literacy
Health literacy is defined as the ability to access, understand and use health information, and studies have shown low health literacy is linked to poor health.
The panel recommends a national strategy to improve health literacy skills that may include a multimedia campaign to raise awareness of the issue, integrate health literacy into school curricula and set and monitor specific literacy targets.
GO WORSHIP SOMEWHERE ELSE
The split in the Anglican Church continues to grow as the Anglican Church of Canada takes a tough line with parishioners who vote to split. St. Chad's Anglican Church has been closed by order of Toronto Bishop Philip Poole. The congregation voted to leave the Anglican Church of Canada last month in a growing dispute over same-sex marriage blessings.
The locks were changed and parishioners have been told the church will remain closed for a cooling off period. Poole said, "Parishioners have the absolute right to choose where they wish to worship – what they don't have is the right to take the building with them."
Last week, a Hamilton judge granted two breakaway congregations in the Niagara diocese exclusive use of their buildings, forcing out those loyal to the national church. The two parties are to return to court later this month to continue a legal fight over who owns the buildings.
According to an article in today's Toronto Star, 10 parishes have broken away from the Anglican Church of Canada to join the conservative Anglican Network in Canada
The locks were changed and parishioners have been told the church will remain closed for a cooling off period. Poole said, "Parishioners have the absolute right to choose where they wish to worship – what they don't have is the right to take the building with them."
Last week, a Hamilton judge granted two breakaway congregations in the Niagara diocese exclusive use of their buildings, forcing out those loyal to the national church. The two parties are to return to court later this month to continue a legal fight over who owns the buildings.
According to an article in today's Toronto Star, 10 parishes have broken away from the Anglican Church of Canada to join the conservative Anglican Network in Canada
JUST HOW BAD WILL THIS GET?
Stocks Cut Losses After Choppy Session! Treasurys Decline After February Rally! Auto Sales Down Across The Board! Bank Failures! Oil Prices Peek at $104! Manufacturing Lowest In 5 Years! Dollar Nears All-Time-Low Against Euro! Dollar Falls To 3 Year Low Against The Yen!
Just a sample of a few headlines from newspapers and news websites in the United States yesterday. Sales of anti-depressants must be going through the roof as consumer confidence declines and people brace for challenging times.
Billionaire Warren Buffet told CNBC yesterday "that the U.S. economy is essentially in a recession even if it hasn't met the technical definition of one yet."
He said that retail businesses are showing a significant slowdown in purchases. He is the chairman and CEO of Omaha-based Berkshire Hathaway Inc. which owns more than 60 subsidiaries including insurance, clothing, furniture, natural gas, corporate jet and candy companies.
Just a sample of a few headlines from newspapers and news websites in the United States yesterday. Sales of anti-depressants must be going through the roof as consumer confidence declines and people brace for challenging times.
Billionaire Warren Buffet told CNBC yesterday "that the U.S. economy is essentially in a recession even if it hasn't met the technical definition of one yet."
He said that retail businesses are showing a significant slowdown in purchases. He is the chairman and CEO of Omaha-based Berkshire Hathaway Inc. which owns more than 60 subsidiaries including insurance, clothing, furniture, natural gas, corporate jet and candy companies.
BIG DAY IN PRIMARY LAND
It's do or die time for Hillary Clinton. February 4th is the most consequential day so far in the race to the White House. If the Obama steam roller flattens her in Ohio and Texas tonight, the campaign will most certainly end.
Ohio looks good for Clinton but Texas has become a battleground. 193 Democratic delegates are at stake in Texas and 141 in Ohio. Texas also has a strong African-American population, and Obama has dominated the black vote so far this year
A break-even scenario may not be enough to continue forward. Split decisions could prolong the battle into the spring. If the Democrats have any hope of reconciliation, Clinton would have to suspend her campaign. A March to Denver will destroy the party's chances for the presidency.
There is a delegate counter game on-line at at CNN. It shows how the remaining primaries and caucuses could determine the race.
Ohio looks good for Clinton but Texas has become a battleground. 193 Democratic delegates are at stake in Texas and 141 in Ohio. Texas also has a strong African-American population, and Obama has dominated the black vote so far this year
A break-even scenario may not be enough to continue forward. Split decisions could prolong the battle into the spring. If the Democrats have any hope of reconciliation, Clinton would have to suspend her campaign. A March to Denver will destroy the party's chances for the presidency.
There is a delegate counter game on-line at at CNN. It shows how the remaining primaries and caucuses could determine the race.
THE GRIM EATER
A real life Anton Ego? The antagonistic food critic from the Pixar movie "Ratatouille," whose harsh criticism drove Gusteau to depression and eventually death, held the power of success and failure over restaurants in Paris.
We have our own food critic in St. John's, retired CBC weatherman Carl Wells. He writes for The Telegram. He is a teddy bear compared to Anton. Where is this going. Well it seems there has been a real life gastronomic disaster in Paris. Le Grand Vefour has lost its coveted three-star Michelin rating.
Le Grand Vefour is a 200 year institution whose guests included Victor Hugo and Napoleon. The Michelin guide which is considered the bible of gastronomy announced winners and losers in its 2008 edition released yesterday.
Jean-Luc Naret (Anton Ego) said anonymous inspectors from Michelin dined at chef Guy Martin's Le Grand Vefour 10 or 12 times in the last two years before deciding to demote it. Lack of consistency was cited as the reason.
No stars are awarded out of kindness," Naret told France-Info radio. "In Guy Martin's case, that doesn't mean that his talent is sullied, it's simply that the consistency is no longer there."
No mention on rats cooking in the kitchen.
We have our own food critic in St. John's, retired CBC weatherman Carl Wells. He writes for The Telegram. He is a teddy bear compared to Anton. Where is this going. Well it seems there has been a real life gastronomic disaster in Paris. Le Grand Vefour has lost its coveted three-star Michelin rating.
Le Grand Vefour is a 200 year institution whose guests included Victor Hugo and Napoleon. The Michelin guide which is considered the bible of gastronomy announced winners and losers in its 2008 edition released yesterday.
Jean-Luc Naret (Anton Ego) said anonymous inspectors from Michelin dined at chef Guy Martin's Le Grand Vefour 10 or 12 times in the last two years before deciding to demote it. Lack of consistency was cited as the reason.
No stars are awarded out of kindness," Naret told France-Info radio. "In Guy Martin's case, that doesn't mean that his talent is sullied, it's simply that the consistency is no longer there."
No mention on rats cooking in the kitchen.
THREE TIMES THE CHARM
It has the makings of a Rocky movie. Siobhan Coady has clinched the federal nomination for the Liberal Party of Canada in the riding of St. John's South- Mount Pearl. She has won the nomination twice before and lost the election twice before to Fisheries and Oceans Minister Loyola Hearn. Is three times the charm?
Hearn has not indicated if he will seek re-election. He has been the focus of a great deal of animosity towards the federal government in the wake of the 2007 Federal Budget that failed to deliver on commitments made by the Conservatives in the last election and unilaterally changed the Atlantic Accord.
Coady beat out local real estate agent Steve Saunders for the nomination. He captured 40% of the vote.
I understand Coady is on a strict regimen of raw eggs, skipping and running up and down the steps of the Confederation Building in preparation for her second re-match with Hearn.
Hearn has not indicated if he will seek re-election. He has been the focus of a great deal of animosity towards the federal government in the wake of the 2007 Federal Budget that failed to deliver on commitments made by the Conservatives in the last election and unilaterally changed the Atlantic Accord.
Coady beat out local real estate agent Steve Saunders for the nomination. He captured 40% of the vote.
I understand Coady is on a strict regimen of raw eggs, skipping and running up and down the steps of the Confederation Building in preparation for her second re-match with Hearn.
THE DOMINOES ARE FALLING
Ron Ellsworth is no slouch when it comes to seizing the initiative. The Ward 4 Councilor tendered his resignation last night at the regular City of St. John's Council meeting. It will be effective April 18th.
Ellsworth is seeking the Deputy Mayor's job which has not been officially vacated yet. The current Deputy Mayor, Dennis O'Keefe, has said he will be running for Mayor.
That means that at a minimum, there will be three by-elections as a result of Mayor Wells' resignation.
Nominations for these three positions will open on April 29th and close on May 06th.
Will Kevin Breen be on the comeback trail?
Ellsworth is seeking the Deputy Mayor's job which has not been officially vacated yet. The current Deputy Mayor, Dennis O'Keefe, has said he will be running for Mayor.
That means that at a minimum, there will be three by-elections as a result of Mayor Wells' resignation.
Nominations for these three positions will open on April 29th and close on May 06th.
Will Kevin Breen be on the comeback trail?
GOVERNMENT TO SEARCH FOR OTHER UNRELEASED REPORTS
The Premier has re-committed to his 30 day release policy. Premier Williams told reporters yesterday that he asked officials in government to review all departmental files for other unreleased reports.
There have been a number of exceptions in the past, most notably the recent disclosure of assessment reports examining health care infrastructure needs in St. John's that were completed in 2005.
Premier Williams says the reports were not released because neither he nor the provincial government were aware of them. He does leave open the possibility that the Department of Health may have been briefed on the findings.
Someone has let the Premier and his government down. Whether it is Eastern Health or a succession of Health Ministers, there is a need here for accountability. Why were the reports not shared with government or the department? How can $134 million in repairs, more than of which was classified as critical, not be brought forward during the 2005, 2006, 2007 budget process for discussion?
I do not doubt the Premier's word that he never heard of these reports before but I find it really hard to swallow that neither the Department of Health or the Department of Finance were not aware of the scope of the needs at Health Care facilities in St. John's. There must be regular discussions with Eastern Health Care. How could this be missed? I guess if I am confused, imagine how the Premier must feel.
That said, blowing up at Lorraine Michaels for demanding accountability solves nothing. Direct that wrath at your officials who put the government in this embarrassing position. Let's face it, the way these reports came to the public view was a bit of a farce. It was the Minister Of Health who inadvertently released them, not Eastern Health. I would be making an example of someone, thats for dam sure.
Which gets back to late reports. What level of micro-management would the Premier's office have to resort to in order to enforce the 30 day rule. Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Directors, Managers all know the policy. Sure meeting the deadline each and every time will be difficult, but that can be managed as long as reports are disclosed at the earliest opportunity. There is no excuse for any report to be gathering dust from public view.
The Premier can hardly be expected to mind the shop of every department, but the opposition is charged with responsibility of pointing out government missteps.
There have been a number of exceptions in the past, most notably the recent disclosure of assessment reports examining health care infrastructure needs in St. John's that were completed in 2005.
Premier Williams says the reports were not released because neither he nor the provincial government were aware of them. He does leave open the possibility that the Department of Health may have been briefed on the findings.
Someone has let the Premier and his government down. Whether it is Eastern Health or a succession of Health Ministers, there is a need here for accountability. Why were the reports not shared with government or the department? How can $134 million in repairs, more than of which was classified as critical, not be brought forward during the 2005, 2006, 2007 budget process for discussion?
I do not doubt the Premier's word that he never heard of these reports before but I find it really hard to swallow that neither the Department of Health or the Department of Finance were not aware of the scope of the needs at Health Care facilities in St. John's. There must be regular discussions with Eastern Health Care. How could this be missed? I guess if I am confused, imagine how the Premier must feel.
That said, blowing up at Lorraine Michaels for demanding accountability solves nothing. Direct that wrath at your officials who put the government in this embarrassing position. Let's face it, the way these reports came to the public view was a bit of a farce. It was the Minister Of Health who inadvertently released them, not Eastern Health. I would be making an example of someone, thats for dam sure.
Which gets back to late reports. What level of micro-management would the Premier's office have to resort to in order to enforce the 30 day rule. Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Directors, Managers all know the policy. Sure meeting the deadline each and every time will be difficult, but that can be managed as long as reports are disclosed at the earliest opportunity. There is no excuse for any report to be gathering dust from public view.
The Premier can hardly be expected to mind the shop of every department, but the opposition is charged with responsibility of pointing out government missteps.
Monday, March 3, 2008
MULTINATIONAL SINNERS IN YOUR CUPBOARD
The murder of union leaders at Coke bottling plants in South America; The United Fruit Company and the history of bananas in Guatemala and other fruit companies.
I have read Naomi Klein's Shock Doctrine, so most of this did not come as a total surprise to me. The article The awful truth about 5 items that may be on your grocery list makes for an interesting read.
I have read Naomi Klein's Shock Doctrine, so most of this did not come as a total surprise to me. The article The awful truth about 5 items that may be on your grocery list makes for an interesting read.
PAINTED CATS
We have two cats. It is hard enough to get them to stay still long enough to cut their nails or brush the mats out of their coats.
How about painted cats? Sure people dye their hair and change appearance, but painting your cat. Nuts!
Well some research later and I learn that some of these paint jobs cost more than a repaint of your vehicle. Upwards of $15,000 each! O and get this, the process has to be repeated every three months because the cat's hair grows out.
I had assumed that they were all fakes, photo paint jobs. There are ethical issues here but that's for another time.
Okay, they are fakes! Wally you can relax.
The comments page at the Why Paint Cats: The Ethics of Feline Aesthetics is worth the cash. All kinds of outraged people.
OPINION LEADERS: ECONOMIC GROWTH ELUDES SOUTHWEST COAST
Searching for economic growth
MANDY RYAN
The Gulf News
MANDY RYAN
The Gulf News
Government employees, private business and elected officials constantly look for ideas for economic growth.
Some areas of the province have hit the nail on the head, maximizing the benefits of local natural resources, or finding the right recipe of investment, energy, political will and even luck to make things happen.
That hasn't happened on the southwest coast recently.
A quick look around can identify some pockets of successes in business and growth in modest numbers, but overall there's precious little to pinpoint as the newest, latest booming industry.
Meanwhile, there are stories of growth associated with oil and gas and mining and other new or renewed industries in many parts of the province.
Things are happening around this corner of the rock. Oil exploration on the west coast is constantly growing with some meaningful finds popping up regularly.
For example, Vulcan Minerals Inc. announced two weeks ago that seismic analysis of their Hurricane Deeps property (in the Bay St. George basin) was favourable for potential oil exploration.
Vulcan's plans to drill a deep well on the Hurricane Deeps target sometime in 2008, which is estimated in the $6 to $8 million range.
That is significant for the area.
Codroy Valley's Francis Gale has some ideas about how the southwest coast can benefit from finds like these (see page 3 for a story about that).
Not all of Mr. Gale's ideas are new. The idea of removing Vardy's Island to accommodate larger ships has been kicking around for years. And while it seems to make sense to the average Joe, it never gets past the idea stage.
Maybe the millions of dollars that's required to remove it are stopping the idea dead in its tracks. Then again, millions of government money is spent on other projects when finance ministers, companies and others are convinced of a good investment.
Hopefully Mr. Gale is right and one day, Vardy's Island will be removed.
It may very well be a step in the right direction towards the search for economic development.
editor@gulfnews.ca
HOCKEYVILLE FINALIST FOR ATLANTIC CANADA IS ....
Port aux Basques is the lone Atlantic Canadian town vying for the coveted Kraft Hockeyville 2008! They beat out Rothsay, New Brunswick to be the Atlantic finalist. The gateway town is in the top five which means they are guaranteed to pick up $20,000 for the Bruce Arena.
If they win the title, Port aux Basques will pick up the grand prize of $100,000 and host an NHL exhibition game.
CBC's Hockey Night In Canada will be broadcasting live from Port Aux Basques on Saturday night.
Keep supporting the home team,
THEY COME TO PRAISE BRUTUS
Thank you for making me see the light, Peter MacKay. It is time to stop the piling on, the constant rhetorical attacks, the reminders that Loyola Hearn stood fast with his party over his province in last year's federal budget.
Hearn is not a political quisling. He is a prophet and with Stephen Harper's help he is going to deliver us to the land of milk and honey.
For the love of all that is good and holy. What a pile of crap delivered by Defense Minister Peter McKay over the weekend.
I love this jewel straight off the CBC news web page, "Sometimes, you know, a prophet is least appreciated in his own land", said MacKay of the man who helped engineer the merger of the Progressive Conservatives and the Alliance party.
Last week the Prime Minister told the House of Commons that Hearn was "indispensable".
The former Provincial Progressive Conservative Cabinet Minister, and aide to Danny Williams, has not publicly confirmed his intentions to run for re-election as the Conservative Candidate in St. John's South - Mount Pearl.
Like Brutus, Hearn will watch his fellow conspirators get voted down, one by one in the next election. He will fall on his political sword believing he will be rewarded by his buddies Harper and MacKay. But what if they fail to win the government Loyola? Better get that appointment first.
Hearn is not a political quisling. He is a prophet and with Stephen Harper's help he is going to deliver us to the land of milk and honey.
For the love of all that is good and holy. What a pile of crap delivered by Defense Minister Peter McKay over the weekend.
I love this jewel straight off the CBC news web page, "Sometimes, you know, a prophet is least appreciated in his own land", said MacKay of the man who helped engineer the merger of the Progressive Conservatives and the Alliance party.
Last week the Prime Minister told the House of Commons that Hearn was "indispensable".
The former Provincial Progressive Conservative Cabinet Minister, and aide to Danny Williams, has not publicly confirmed his intentions to run for re-election as the Conservative Candidate in St. John's South - Mount Pearl.
Like Brutus, Hearn will watch his fellow conspirators get voted down, one by one in the next election. He will fall on his political sword believing he will be rewarded by his buddies Harper and MacKay. But what if they fail to win the government Loyola? Better get that appointment first.
SO LONG, GOOD BYE AND LET THE GAMES BEGIN
I cannot believe I forgot to say good-bye. Andy Wells finished as Mayor of the City Of St. John's this morning. A prudent decision to stay in the role until the very last minute before he started his new job as CEO and Chair of the Public Utilities Board. Fortunately for Wells and the taxpayers, no health issues occurred over the weekend and the life insurance program was not needed. Better safe than sorry! Best of success Andy. Wish this all could have been done without the public racket.
So with Andy gone, former Deputy Mayor Marie White will officially announce her campaign today. That's two in for the Mayor's job, three if you count Vince Withers. Only one person, Councilor Ron Ellsworth has announced a run for the deputy Mayor's chair. The decision to go first was a wise one because anyone else from council who wants the job knows that they will end up off council altogether if they run.
So who is interested in a council seat. Simon Lono perhaps? Nothing like a good series of contests to push off those late winter blues.
So with Andy gone, former Deputy Mayor Marie White will officially announce her campaign today. That's two in for the Mayor's job, three if you count Vince Withers. Only one person, Councilor Ron Ellsworth has announced a run for the deputy Mayor's chair. The decision to go first was a wise one because anyone else from council who wants the job knows that they will end up off council altogether if they run.
So who is interested in a council seat. Simon Lono perhaps? Nothing like a good series of contests to push off those late winter blues.
HARPER SUES FOR LIBEL
The Conservatives are taking allegations made by one of their own candidates from British Columbia very seriously. Prime Minister Harper has filed notice of a libel action against Opposition Leader Stephane Dion over allegations made about him in the Chuck Cadman scandal.
A CTV news report says Dion, Michael Ignatieff, Ralph Goodale and the Liberal Party are all included on the notice of libel. He says they all accused him of knowing about Conservative bribery in the Chuck Cadman affair.
The Liberals are pushing for the RCMP to investigate the matter. Call an inquiry Harper and step down as Prime Minister and leader until the issue is settled.
A CTV news report says Dion, Michael Ignatieff, Ralph Goodale and the Liberal Party are all included on the notice of libel. He says they all accused him of knowing about Conservative bribery in the Chuck Cadman affair.
Surely this is not the same Harper who made many public allegations against Prime Minister Chretien including that he fired the head of the FBDB simply because that guy would not lend money to one of Chretien's supporters for a golf course and hotel that Chretien had sold his shares in before becoming elected PM. I guess the shoe is on the other foot now
The Liberals are pushing for the RCMP to investigate the matter. Call an inquiry Harper and step down as Prime Minister and leader until the issue is settled.
CHANGE IS IN THE AIR
It is election day in Canada's most prosperous province. Premier Ed Stelmach is looking for his first mandate from Albertans and an 11th consecutive majority for his conservative party. All of the province's parties are running under the same theme, change.
Stelmach has run a campaign on the theme of "Change That Works For Albertans". Much of the election has focussed on the new premier distancing himself from former premier, and party leader, Ralph Klein.
CBC Reporter Scott Dippel has a blog in which he has been providing insight into the campaign. His post last Friday showed a PC party that was concerned and was not beyond bullying reporters.
When the election was called, the governing PC's had 60 seats, the Liberals 16, the NDP four and the Wildrose Alliance one, with one Independent and one vacant seat.
2,252,104 Albertans are eligible to cast a ballot compared with 1,982,843 in the 2004 vote. Voter turnout in Alberta elections has fallen from 60.2 per cent of eligible voters in 1993 to 44.7 per cent in 2004.
Stelmach has run a campaign on the theme of "Change That Works For Albertans". Much of the election has focussed on the new premier distancing himself from former premier, and party leader, Ralph Klein.
CBC Reporter Scott Dippel has a blog in which he has been providing insight into the campaign. His post last Friday showed a PC party that was concerned and was not beyond bullying reporters.
Two members of a Conservative candidate's team in rural Alberta storm into a local newspaper office. The candidate wants the editor's head on a plate. His crime: the paper dared to print a picture of Liberal Leader Kevin Taft on its front page.The editor agrees to tell this story to CBC News but stops at the last minute. That's because the paper's publisher tells the editor that "if he values his job," he won't speak about the incident
When the election was called, the governing PC's had 60 seats, the Liberals 16, the NDP four and the Wildrose Alliance one, with one Independent and one vacant seat.
2,252,104 Albertans are eligible to cast a ballot compared with 1,982,843 in the 2004 vote. Voter turnout in Alberta elections has fallen from 60.2 per cent of eligible voters in 1993 to 44.7 per cent in 2004.
FOOD ADVOCATE GOES IT ALONE
The Provincial Government may have rejected her, but food advocate Samantha Gerbeau continues to promote her healthy eating program and book to hundreds of children in the province.
She has received financial support from the Sisters of Mercy and the Sisters of Presentation to publish her book "The ABC's of the Real Treat", and with the help of the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers Association and the Aliant Pioneers distributed 15,000 copies to grade two and three students last year.
March is nutrition month and Gerbeau is out making presentations to schools. Considering the Eat Smart Program, the Healthy Living Campaigns, and he rise of obesity and type two diabetes one would think a program like this would be a natural one for government to get behind.
Gerbeau is on the hunt for financial support to ensure she can continue to offer her program to school children this year. You can read more about her crusade in today Telegram on page A-4.
She has received financial support from the Sisters of Mercy and the Sisters of Presentation to publish her book "The ABC's of the Real Treat", and with the help of the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers Association and the Aliant Pioneers distributed 15,000 copies to grade two and three students last year.
March is nutrition month and Gerbeau is out making presentations to schools. Considering the Eat Smart Program, the Healthy Living Campaigns, and he rise of obesity and type two diabetes one would think a program like this would be a natural one for government to get behind.
Gerbeau is on the hunt for financial support to ensure she can continue to offer her program to school children this year. You can read more about her crusade in today Telegram on page A-4.
SIMMS MAKES ORAM LOOK FOOLISH
I happened to be driving back from the dentist’s office a few minutes ago and flicked on the
Oram called in to dump all over NDP leader Lorraine Michaels for being critical of Health Minister Wisemen and suggesting the government has been sitting on reports and not acting. For some reason he criticized Michaels for doing her job and talked about her desire for an additional $18,000 for staff as being extravagant because the NDP has only one seat in the House of Assembly. So when the opposition does its job the Government, or at least one of its ministers, throws out the threat of not supporting providing the money needed to offer opposition. I have to say it was not a classy move on Oram’s part. Petty, mean and intimidating. The Premier should put him on a leash.
Simms who would make a great leader of the opposition, engaged Oram and suggested the Government could solve the issue in all the Provinces healthcare facilities this year if they wanted to. He said you have the money. You can fix the problem for the next 20 years and still put $300 million towards the debt. Oram on the other hand was slipping and sliding all over the place. He tried to stick to his lines of responsible spending and proper planning. Simms was relentless; he said the Minister was on thin ice and that they had this report for three years and has not acted on it. He refused to accept the government line.
I am the first one to admit that the government cannot be patting itself on the back for planning to deal with these issues. Yes the government has increased expenditures for school repairs, new construction, health care and roads. They have been in a position to do so. Brow beating the opposition for seizing on a government planning failure just does not cut it. A clear commitment is needed to restore confidence.
The Ostrich approach has failed. Things have just gotten worse as the infrastructure problems were not identified as priorities by the Department of Health in the provincial budget process. Someone has to take responsibility for ignoring the problem.
That said the stepping stone, the $10 Billion carrot dangled in front of us and than cruelly yanked away by Ottawa would repair a lot of hospitals, roads, bridges, schools, sewers, water supplies and allow us to pay down our debt while we are in a positive cash flow position. Spending all of our surpluses to catch up on generations of under funding is going to leave us more reliant on the federal government when our non-renewable resources are depleted than we ever were.
CONSUMER CONFIDENCE DOWN
A new poll from Harris-Decima and Investors Group is showing that Canadian consumer confidence is at its lowest point in years.
Bad economic news south of the border and lay-offs in Ontario's manufacturing industry are impacting people's spending habits.
Canadians are more optimistic about the economy than the Americans.
The overall index fell to 81, down five points from the last survey in September, 2007.
Bad economic news south of the border and lay-offs in Ontario's manufacturing industry are impacting people's spending habits.
Canadians are more optimistic about the economy than the Americans.
The overall index fell to 81, down five points from the last survey in September, 2007.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
SERIOUS BUSINESS SAYS THANKS FOR THE PUBLICITY
Richard Raleigh strikes back! Earlier today I posted on Ivan Morgan's rant in this week's Independent regarding Richard Raleigh, who writes a column in a competitor's publication. Apparently, RR has a very satirical blog called serious business which I read, when it is updated. It is cheeky, fresh and a always a bit of fun.
So I guess the hunt for the true identities of Richard Raleigh and IP Freely will continue.
Anyways he has written a retort to Morgan telling him to relax a little and not take life so seriously. Now I have to track down the Business Post to see what the heck he has been saying in the first place.
So I guess the hunt for the true identities of Richard Raleigh and IP Freely will continue.
Anyways he has written a retort to Morgan telling him to relax a little and not take life so seriously. Now I have to track down the Business Post to see what the heck he has been saying in the first place.
LIVING IN A NORTHERN CLIMATE
"I had trouble making decisions – it was like I was working in a fog."...sound familiar. The winter blues got you? Well, if you're feeling a little tired and uninspired you're not alone. Apparently depression, life-transition issues and absenteeism all rise in winter while productivity declines in most people.
Check-out this article from the Toronto Star on the winter blahs.
In the meantime, I must say my spirits have lifted a bit with the longer days. It is no longer dark at 5:00 when I get off.
Check-out this article from the Toronto Star on the winter blahs.
In the meantime, I must say my spirits have lifted a bit with the longer days. It is no longer dark at 5:00 when I get off.
A WINTER OF PLAGUES
Another weekend of mixed weather. Spring like temperatures followed by a cold day, snow and than more rain and mild temperatures today and back down to -5 tonight and tomorrow. I guess the weather is partly to blame for all the colds that are making the rounds.
My house has been hit with several bad cold and stomach bugs this winter. I've been sick on and off for the best part of a month. Kris and the kids have had colds, temperatures and sore throats. I finally gave up and went to the doctor only to be told I needed antibiotics. A strep throat and tonsillitis! It really threw a kink into a number of plans. I lost my voice.
It seems that everyone I know has fallen victim to some nasty bug. Not only have they been preyed on, no one seem to be able to shake them. They linger. You feel a little better and get smacked again. I'm beginning to think my immune system is shot! My mother-in-law starts blaming the air quality in the house and the cycle repeats itself.
Apparently it is not the flu. Anyways I feel I have paid my dues this winter with my three week stint of coughing, ear infections and sore throats. I just wish the weather would remain cold or mild and give me a fighting chance.
My house has been hit with several bad cold and stomach bugs this winter. I've been sick on and off for the best part of a month. Kris and the kids have had colds, temperatures and sore throats. I finally gave up and went to the doctor only to be told I needed antibiotics. A strep throat and tonsillitis! It really threw a kink into a number of plans. I lost my voice.
It seems that everyone I know has fallen victim to some nasty bug. Not only have they been preyed on, no one seem to be able to shake them. They linger. You feel a little better and get smacked again. I'm beginning to think my immune system is shot! My mother-in-law starts blaming the air quality in the house and the cycle repeats itself.
Apparently it is not the flu. Anyways I feel I have paid my dues this winter with my three week stint of coughing, ear infections and sore throats. I just wish the weather would remain cold or mild and give me a fighting chance.
MARCH ROARS IN LIKE A LION REVIVING SNOW TIRE DEBATE
The snow tire debate is being revived. Opposition critic for 1/3 of the Provincial Government's portfolios, Roland Butler is asking the minister for an update. As well, the Members of the Urban Municipalities Committee of Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador are saying snow tire legislation would make the province's roads safer.I hope that CBC Radio gets to do another interview with Minister O'Brien on the matter. His last one was better than a "Yes Minister" skit. Hopefully his PR people will ensure he has been well briefed and better prepared this time. Perhaps he will adopt a stewardship role, like acknowledging the concerns put forth by concerned citizens, groups and the official opposition, perhaps drafting legislation as well.
Just because the idea is not yours is no reason to trounce it. Good policy makes for good government. Besides, when you introduce the legislation no will remember that you panned it initially, all they will remember is a government that is committed to making the highways safer. Imagine, columns in the provincial papers, television interviews about positive proactive legislation all singing your praises. If the opposition tries to take credit you can thank them for their contribution. Sound magnanimous and make them look petty for trying to play politics with a serious issue that impacts every man, women and child traveling by road in this province.
Perhaps when you have gotten all this positive press and you're sitting in your office watching re-runs of your mug on television you can instruct the Minister of Works, Services and Transportation on making the ferry's safer as well!
THE RALEIGH DEBATE
Nom de guerre,alias, assumed name, false name, fictitious name and pseudonym. They all mean a pretend name for an author. Journalist, writers, private citizens have used pen names/Nom de guerre for generations. Sometimes a popular author will publish under an assumed name to see if his or her own name, or the material published is selling. Some people have had to hide behind pseudonyms because publishing in their own names could lead to sanctions of some kind or another.
Ivan Morgan over at The Independent is all fired up about Richard Raleigh! Raleigh is a blogger and a columnist who writes scathing attacks under a false name. He says he does this to protect himself from a vindictive government.
Allowing a person to write under a false name is something an editor has to think long and hard about. If the editor feels that the author's contribution is worthy and is willing to publish with a fictional name, than one has to accept that the potential repercussions are real.
However, if using a false name is just a cowardly way of trying to score political points without having to be accountable, than it is unfair and something the editor has to consider.
I have been published under a false name before, mostly for protection from my own political party. I have also been punished financially for expressing my opinions publicly. There are pros and cons to this argument. It should be the option of last recourse.
What is your opinion on Morgan's comments?
Ivan Morgan over at The Independent is all fired up about Richard Raleigh! Raleigh is a blogger and a columnist who writes scathing attacks under a false name. He says he does this to protect himself from a vindictive government.
Allowing a person to write under a false name is something an editor has to think long and hard about. If the editor feels that the author's contribution is worthy and is willing to publish with a fictional name, than one has to accept that the potential repercussions are real.
However, if using a false name is just a cowardly way of trying to score political points without having to be accountable, than it is unfair and something the editor has to consider.
I have been published under a false name before, mostly for protection from my own political party. I have also been punished financially for expressing my opinions publicly. There are pros and cons to this argument. It should be the option of last recourse.
What is your opinion on Morgan's comments?
THE BOOM MEANS BUST FOR LOCAL EMPLOYERS
Local reporter and photo-journalist Greg Locke has an article in Halifax's The Chronicle Herald today. It is strange seeing a picture of Greg himself, rather than one of his photos with a credit.
It is an article about the impact of Alberta's boom on the Newfoundland and Labrador economy. He writes about the consequence of local people heading west for much better-paying jobs, leaving a vacuum in the local job market.
Greg's column, The Newfoundland Diary, appears every third week in The Nova Scotian.
It is an article about the impact of Alberta's boom on the Newfoundland and Labrador economy. He writes about the consequence of local people heading west for much better-paying jobs, leaving a vacuum in the local job market.
Greg's column, The Newfoundland Diary, appears every third week in The Nova Scotian.
THE CADMAN ISSUE FITS A PATTERN
The Telegram editorial today is right on the money. "The Cadman allegations should be investigated completely, because they involve a type of conduct that all Canadians should be concerned about."
These types of allegations are horrible, and not uncommon with this crew. Imagine if they are true.
Did Ottawa Mayor Larry O'Brien use his Conservative ties to induce Terry Kilrea to drop out of the Ottawa mayoralty race by offering a financial incentive - and a seat on the National Parole Board, a position that would have to be handed out by the federal cabinet?
What about the allegations that Stockwell Day paid MP Jim Hart to step aside to allow Day to run in his riding in 2000 in exchange for as much as $50,000 in cash?
What about allegations that the Conservatives have hired and fired in the civil service for partisan political reasons?
What did Harper adviser Brian Mulroney receive all that cash for? And how much did he get?
So far their defense is that no insurance company would have offered such a program, and that the inducement was not talked about by Cadman when he was alive. No, there is much more to this.
What do Canadians believe?
OBAMA STRIKES BACK
The Barack campaign is hitting back. The front runner in the Democratic race has responded with his own ad with the theme, "In a dangerous world, it's judgment that matters". The response uses some of the same footage as Clinton's ads of sleeping children, and it starts the same way, but his points out that Barack Obama -- not Clinton -- opposed the Iraq war when it started.
Short of a miracle, Clinton will be conceding on Tuesday night. What is interesting is how quickly, promptly and efficiently the Obama team managed to confuse the message with an ad of their own. Both ads are running in the same states, and Obama's copycat response will make it harder for Clinton's message -- that he's not experienced enough to be president -- to sink into voters' heads by Tuesday.
Short of a miracle, Clinton will be conceding on Tuesday night. What is interesting is how quickly, promptly and efficiently the Obama team managed to confuse the message with an ad of their own. Both ads are running in the same states, and Obama's copycat response will make it harder for Clinton's message -- that he's not experienced enough to be president -- to sink into voters' heads by Tuesday.
WHO YOU GONNA CALL?
My television channels do not provide a lot of coverage from Texas or Ohio. I have heard a fair amount about this "phone call ad" being run by the Clinton Campaign. As long as people are caught up in the rhetoric and the dream, I doubt it will do much to help her. That said it might make people think twice about who best to run a country at war and in a recession.
One thing is for certain...McCain will be able to run a similar ad in the fall with great impact when Obama is the Democratic candidate.
One thing is for certain...McCain will be able to run a similar ad in the fall with great impact when Obama is the Democratic candidate.
THE FINAL LINK IN THE CHAIN
The final cut, the last member of the federal ticket Liberal ticket for this province, will be selected tomorrow in St. John's South- Mount Pearl.
It is an interesting race, in that there is some perceived ownership of the nod by Siobhan Coady supporters. It seems there is quite a bit of resentment against Steve Saunders for daring to seek the nomination. Who does he think he is? He is wasting time!
Now I have to admit, I have no great liking or bias for Saunders. However, I do respect his right to run. He has been putting together an organization and he realizes that the winner is the person who gets out the most votes. That is democracy. What I do not understand is the preoccupation of some of Coady's supporters and organizers with pushing unflattering rumours about Saunders and supposed dirty tricks. They should be looking ahead, getting their superior numbers out to ensure they have more votes. Throwing dirt is just counter productive.
That said, Saunders has drawn some criticism for his approach. In one e-mail I received from him he said, "There are 2 Candidates seaking this Nomination Myself and Siobhan Coady, We cannot risk losing this election again. On nomination day cast your ballot for Steve Saunders." Letting the couple of spelling mistakes slide, the message says do not repeat the mistake of making Coady the candidate because she is a two time loser and if you select her again, we will lose again. I would have preferred a statement of principle, a reason to consider voting for him besides, hey vote for me because Coady is a proven dud.
Anyways, best of luck to both sides. I will be shocked if Coady, with her experience and team does not sweep this thing tomorrow night.
If you are a registered Liberal in that riding voting takes place at the Monday, March 3, 2008 at
Corpus Christi Parish Hall, Waterford Bridge Road, St. John's from 4pm - 8pm.
Considering the crap about false ID's and addresses you're best advised to bring along an ID, or a bill of some sort that has your mailing address.
It is an interesting race, in that there is some perceived ownership of the nod by Siobhan Coady supporters. It seems there is quite a bit of resentment against Steve Saunders for daring to seek the nomination. Who does he think he is? He is wasting time!
Now I have to admit, I have no great liking or bias for Saunders. However, I do respect his right to run. He has been putting together an organization and he realizes that the winner is the person who gets out the most votes. That is democracy. What I do not understand is the preoccupation of some of Coady's supporters and organizers with pushing unflattering rumours about Saunders and supposed dirty tricks. They should be looking ahead, getting their superior numbers out to ensure they have more votes. Throwing dirt is just counter productive.
That said, Saunders has drawn some criticism for his approach. In one e-mail I received from him he said, "There are 2 Candidates seaking this Nomination Myself and Siobhan Coady, We cannot risk losing this election again. On nomination day cast your ballot for Steve Saunders." Letting the couple of spelling mistakes slide, the message says do not repeat the mistake of making Coady the candidate because she is a two time loser and if you select her again, we will lose again. I would have preferred a statement of principle, a reason to consider voting for him besides, hey vote for me because Coady is a proven dud.
Anyways, best of luck to both sides. I will be shocked if Coady, with her experience and team does not sweep this thing tomorrow night.
If you are a registered Liberal in that riding voting takes place at the Monday, March 3, 2008 at
Corpus Christi Parish Hall, Waterford Bridge Road, St. John's from 4pm - 8pm.
Considering the crap about false ID's and addresses you're best advised to bring along an ID, or a bill of some sort that has your mailing address.
NOT NOBODY, NOT NOHOW!
My kids love the Wizard Of Oz. We watch it at least once a month. After my last post I got to thinking of the huffing and puffing and roaring that the Grits have been getting on with, slinging the dirt and pointing out the flaws of the government but hesitating to pull the plug on the Conservative minority.Than I went upstairs and heard the Mayor of Munchkin City say, "Then this is a day of independence for all the Munchkins and their descendants. Let the joyous news be spread. The wicked witch at last is dead!"
Than I remembered the scene when Dorothy and the cowardly Lion talked about fear and it sort of reminded me of the to-and-fro in Ottawa these days:
Dorothy: Your majesty, if you were king, you wouldn't be afraid of anything?
Cowardly Lion: Not nobody. Not nohow.
Tin Woodsman: Not even a rhinoceros?
Cowardly Lion: Impossirous!
Dorothy: How about a hippopotamus?
Cowardly Lion: Why, I'd thrash him from top to bottomus.
Dorothy: Supposing you met an elephant?
Cowardly Lion: I'd knot him up in cellophant.
Scarecrow: What if it were a brontosaurowardly Lion: I'd show him who was king of the forest.
Is the Liberal Party becoming the Cowardly Lion?
WE ARE GONNA HUFF AND PUFF AND LEAVE YOUR HOUSE STANDING
Federal Liberals put on a session with their provincial counterparts in Nova Scotia over the weekend. I was not there but a couple of my regular readers were.
The session called "Knockout Punch" gave the delegates a taste of the campaign to come. They were treated to videos the pointed to the Conservatives' bungling of the Atlantic Accord, the firing of the president of the Canadian Nuclear Commission, cuts to summer job programs and all things Conservative.
In an article in today's The Chronicle Harold, some delegates expressed their concern about the use of negative advertising.
While Liberal Garth Turner was saying the Liberals should pull the plug on the government. Scott Brison is not so sure. In a statement that makes me wonder if he is taking advice from soon to be former St. John's Mayor Andy Wells, he said:
Roar like a lion and, well, roar like a lion.
The session called "Knockout Punch" gave the delegates a taste of the campaign to come. They were treated to videos the pointed to the Conservatives' bungling of the Atlantic Accord, the firing of the president of the Canadian Nuclear Commission, cuts to summer job programs and all things Conservative.
In an article in today's The Chronicle Harold, some delegates expressed their concern about the use of negative advertising.
While Liberal Garth Turner was saying the Liberals should pull the plug on the government. Scott Brison is not so sure. In a statement that makes me wonder if he is taking advice from soon to be former St. John's Mayor Andy Wells, he said:
"Whether it makes sense to have a $350-million election at a time when we are facing economic uncertainty and are teetering on the abyss of a deficit, whether it would make sense to have a $350-million election that the polls indicate really won’t have a big effect on the political landscape, is an important (question)."
Roar like a lion and, well, roar like a lion.
A NIGHT OUT AND A BELLY FULL OF LAUGHS
Last night Kris and I joined some friends for a night of local culture and entertainment. We ventured downtown to the LSPU Hall to watch the Dance Party of Newfoundland. It was another sold out performance. We arrived early so we could all sit together, every seat is a good seat at the hall!The show was one of the funniest things I have ever seen. The Sons of our Fathers, Air Guitar battles, Newfoundland Fear Factor, Small Vegan and so much more. These guys are a big hit where ever they go. I was wondering how some of the "Newfie sketches" would go over in places like Toronto. How much of that local humour would get lost in the translation? But apparently people are going bananas for it.
If you're a fan of Codco or This Hour Has 22 Minutes, than you're in for a treat with this sketch comedy troupe's edgy humour. The Dance Party of Newfoundland are Jonny Harris, Steve Cochrane, Phil Churchill and Dave Sullivan.
If you have not seen them and want to experience a little taste check out their my space page which has a number of video clips.
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