With the American Ambassador asking us to keep the US government out of our election, it’s interesting to note that some in the great bloggerland to the south, are actually keeping an eye on our little traveling road show. Suddenly it seems Canada is on not only the governmental radar but on the blogging radar as well.
The blog Captain’s Quarters which is of the conservative bent, has featured not one but two articles on Canada Friday. The first one was a thorough look at our burgeoning income trust scandal, and a suggestion that no one might take this latest financial trouble seriously until the Security Exchange Commission decides to take a look at what the neighbors are up to. The blog entry focused a lot of attention over the trading patterns on those stocks tied into the trusts and how they exploded in volume just before the Goodale announcement was made.
The second blog entry is about the leader’s debate of Thursday night and what impact the four horsemen of the political apocalypse had in their first head to head discussion. The author found some good points for Stephen Harper and as would be expected for a conservative blog had little kind to say about the performance of the Prime Minister.
The two entries make an interesting take on how some Americans are viewing the happenings of that snowbound land of the north. This is not the first time that the Captain has taken an interest in Canada, he recently has commented on the Scott Reid faux pas and the controversy with the US ambassador. His blog was one of the few American sites that followed the Gomery Commission with any regularity and even posted material considered verboten in Canada, causing a rush to the servers as Canadians sought out that of which they were not supposed to know.
There’s even more interesting reading in the comments section where a number of Canadians offer up their take on the Captain’s findings. It’s a worthwhile stop for a few minutes just to see what some of the folks to the south are thinking of when it comes to their Northern flank.
Saturday, December 17, 2005
Friday, December 16, 2005
The Nation's Business
After watching a wee portion of last night’s Leaders debate I’m reminded of that old television show from the CBC, back in the early days of the cathode ray.
The Nation’s Business was something like a five or ten minute free time political broadcast, where your average parliamentarian could explain away his or her party’s political policy without the need of any debate.
It had many time spots during its run, but I remember it normally followed the National News if my memory is correct; it was an infomercial before infomercials became the mainstay of late night television. Last night we had back to back infomercials, as Paul, Steve, Gilles and Jack were given the microphone and allowed to run wild with it. The debut of the Leaders on tour turned into nothing more than a two hour version of that venerable old CBC mainstay.
Described by some media pundits as a snore fest this first of four televised debates certainly broke new news, nor did it unearth any new scandals. Even Canadian’s with rudimentary French skills could be excused if they were thankful that they couldn’t parlez vous. In fact trying to follow the translators was more entertaining than following the scripted bromides of the actual participants.
The only interesting note of the night was Stephen Harper’s answer to the if your child was gay what would you say question. His answer was clinical and rather bland, something to the effect that parents always love their children. He once again showed virtually no emotion in his response, a rather robotic reply to a question that probably was designed to provoke outrage in the Conservative leader. He didn’t take the bait, but neither did he exactly wow the audience with his wit. Paul Martin tried to capitalize on the Conservatives plans to reopen the Gay marriage question to parliamentary vote, but it seemed to go nowhere, which is a place that much of this “debate” went.
Gilles Duceppe brought glad tidings of continued confusion suggesting that in thirty years or so we’ll have two separate countries of the Great White North, a Canada and a Quebec. Thirty years? The only thing worse than watching this paint dry is the prospect of thirty more years of the will they stay or will they go dance.
Most commentators scored Duceppe’s proclamation as the winning moment of the night, as the three other leaders failed to really challenge his hyperbole, nor offer up any real defense of a federal system which would include Quebec. The Prime Minister attempted some damage control after the debate in the media scrum, but his moment to take the separatist leader to task passed him by in the debate.
Jack Layton looked earnest, smiled at the right time and in the end didn’t really score any major points either. He gave his standard dark day for democracy spiel over the sponsorship scandal, while conveniently leaving out the fact that he helped support the dark princes of democracy in the last Parliament. For the rest of the debate Jack followed the lead of his fellow leaders with the best policy is no real policy.
This false start campaign continues to stumble out of the gate; most observers feel that the real election campaign won’t get started in earnest until after the last polar bear swim of New Years day is complete.
Now that's an idea! Dumping the four leaders into a pool of freezing cold water might actually make for an interesting kick start to the campaign. If nothing else it would wake everyone up from this walking, talking slumber party
The Nation’s Business was something like a five or ten minute free time political broadcast, where your average parliamentarian could explain away his or her party’s political policy without the need of any debate.
It had many time spots during its run, but I remember it normally followed the National News if my memory is correct; it was an infomercial before infomercials became the mainstay of late night television. Last night we had back to back infomercials, as Paul, Steve, Gilles and Jack were given the microphone and allowed to run wild with it. The debut of the Leaders on tour turned into nothing more than a two hour version of that venerable old CBC mainstay.
Described by some media pundits as a snore fest this first of four televised debates certainly broke new news, nor did it unearth any new scandals. Even Canadian’s with rudimentary French skills could be excused if they were thankful that they couldn’t parlez vous. In fact trying to follow the translators was more entertaining than following the scripted bromides of the actual participants.
The only interesting note of the night was Stephen Harper’s answer to the if your child was gay what would you say question. His answer was clinical and rather bland, something to the effect that parents always love their children. He once again showed virtually no emotion in his response, a rather robotic reply to a question that probably was designed to provoke outrage in the Conservative leader. He didn’t take the bait, but neither did he exactly wow the audience with his wit. Paul Martin tried to capitalize on the Conservatives plans to reopen the Gay marriage question to parliamentary vote, but it seemed to go nowhere, which is a place that much of this “debate” went.
Gilles Duceppe brought glad tidings of continued confusion suggesting that in thirty years or so we’ll have two separate countries of the Great White North, a Canada and a Quebec. Thirty years? The only thing worse than watching this paint dry is the prospect of thirty more years of the will they stay or will they go dance.
Most commentators scored Duceppe’s proclamation as the winning moment of the night, as the three other leaders failed to really challenge his hyperbole, nor offer up any real defense of a federal system which would include Quebec. The Prime Minister attempted some damage control after the debate in the media scrum, but his moment to take the separatist leader to task passed him by in the debate.
Jack Layton looked earnest, smiled at the right time and in the end didn’t really score any major points either. He gave his standard dark day for democracy spiel over the sponsorship scandal, while conveniently leaving out the fact that he helped support the dark princes of democracy in the last Parliament. For the rest of the debate Jack followed the lead of his fellow leaders with the best policy is no real policy.
This false start campaign continues to stumble out of the gate; most observers feel that the real election campaign won’t get started in earnest until after the last polar bear swim of New Years day is complete.
Now that's an idea! Dumping the four leaders into a pool of freezing cold water might actually make for an interesting kick start to the campaign. If nothing else it would wake everyone up from this walking, talking slumber party
Pictures of Podunk: The Shoe Tree
A curious little local tourist attraction, found just off the side of Highway 16 just before the Oliver Lake turnoff. Many a local grad or visiting tourist has left their soles at this tree, forever marking their stay in Prince Rupert.Thursday, December 15, 2005
They made their list, but didn't check it twice!
Yet another gaffe for Liberal organizers this time the folks in Quebec have caused their leader a bit of a PR nightmare. A supposedly confidential memo destined for Liberal executives inadvertently was sent to the nation's media on Thursday.
The memo which presents a doom and gloom scenario for Liberals in Quebec, found its way across the wired universe and onto to many a reporters Blackberry with tidings of joy if you're a Bloc supporter.
The Liberals apparently are expecting to lose 45 seats outright, leaving them with only 30 seats that they feel they at least will remain competitive in. Of that thirty, only ten are considered sure bets, the other twenty apparently still very much in play and could potentially go the way of the bloc.
Word of the misdirected memo comes on the day of the Leaders debate in French, which tends to feature mainly Quebec issues debated by the four main leaders. It should put even more of a spring into the step of Gilles Duceppe, the Bloc Quebecois leader has so far been comfortably in the lead in the province and has seeming little to fear from a Liberal renaissance in the short term.
The communications problem is yet another example of Martin's backroom handlers doing their best to torpedo their man's chances at re-election. The negative vibes coming out of Quebec will certainly make any kind of swell of momentum hard to come by as the campaign drags on towards the January 23rd decision day. Martin might be best served by taking away the microphones, blackberries and internet connections of his backroom workers, every time they hit send or make a phone call he spends the rest of the day trying to find a way to spin things in a positive light. As an old shipping baron Martin must surely understand that it's hard to go full steam ahead, when you're frequently bailing the water out of the bottom of the boat.
The memo which presents a doom and gloom scenario for Liberals in Quebec, found its way across the wired universe and onto to many a reporters Blackberry with tidings of joy if you're a Bloc supporter.
The Liberals apparently are expecting to lose 45 seats outright, leaving them with only 30 seats that they feel they at least will remain competitive in. Of that thirty, only ten are considered sure bets, the other twenty apparently still very much in play and could potentially go the way of the bloc.
Word of the misdirected memo comes on the day of the Leaders debate in French, which tends to feature mainly Quebec issues debated by the four main leaders. It should put even more of a spring into the step of Gilles Duceppe, the Bloc Quebecois leader has so far been comfortably in the lead in the province and has seeming little to fear from a Liberal renaissance in the short term.
The communications problem is yet another example of Martin's backroom handlers doing their best to torpedo their man's chances at re-election. The negative vibes coming out of Quebec will certainly make any kind of swell of momentum hard to come by as the campaign drags on towards the January 23rd decision day. Martin might be best served by taking away the microphones, blackberries and internet connections of his backroom workers, every time they hit send or make a phone call he spends the rest of the day trying to find a way to spin things in a positive light. As an old shipping baron Martin must surely understand that it's hard to go full steam ahead, when you're frequently bailing the water out of the bottom of the boat.
Geez! Maybe Scott Reid was right!
There was a lot more than pampers, juice, Barney and the Tele-Tubbies at a daycare in Vernon, as RCMP raided the living quarters of an Interior day care centre. Police sent in an undercover operative who purchased a quantity of drugs from a relation of the operator of a local daycare centre. The undercover officer noticed other irregularities in the apartment at the time and the Mounties went and got a search warrant which they executed on Saturday, effectively shutting down the daycare centre on Monday
At the time of the raid they also discovered a number of firearms, cash and other drug paraphernalia scattered around the living quarters. The Northern Interior Health Authority took immediate action to shut down the daycare centre which was adjacent to the living quarters, even though they claim the operator had no knowledge of her boyfriends sideline business operations.
The raid comes hot on the heels of controversial remarks by Prime Minister Martin’s spokesman Scott Reid, over the Conservative party’s daycare policies. At the time Reid said that parents might be inclined to spend any daycare monies provided on popcorn and beer. In Vernon, at one daycare centre that might have been the least of our worries.
At the time of the raid they also discovered a number of firearms, cash and other drug paraphernalia scattered around the living quarters. The Northern Interior Health Authority took immediate action to shut down the daycare centre which was adjacent to the living quarters, even though they claim the operator had no knowledge of her boyfriends sideline business operations.
The raid comes hot on the heels of controversial remarks by Prime Minister Martin’s spokesman Scott Reid, over the Conservative party’s daycare policies. At the time Reid said that parents might be inclined to spend any daycare monies provided on popcorn and beer. In Vernon, at one daycare centre that might have been the least of our worries.
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
And the search goes on.........
Four months on and Podunk still is without a City manager! This bit of news came out Wednesday with word that City Council is preparing to add to the executive headhunting firms’ bank account, by extending the process of seeking out a new civic administrator.
The replacement for the long since departed Victor Kumar, who left his job in August but remained on the payroll until October, has been going on through the fall and apparently not to much success. The firm charged with identifying and recommending a suitable replacement, came up with one candidate who it seems was on the road to Podunk, until the candidates family stepped in and expressed a hesitancy to relocate to our little corner of the rainforest.
To tide the town over until a permanent administrator can be found, City Council is apparently set to announce an interim manager next week, set to guide Podunk into the New Year and maybe beyond.
As for the permanent replacement, it’s apparently back to square one, with 10 to 15,000 dollars reportedly spent already and extra costs expected as the extended search now continues, the meter continues to tick on that particular tab.
It’s curious that the executive search firm couldn’t have provided a short list of at least five or six possibilities to choose from. Thus not requiring an extension until those names had been vetted and those candidates eliminated. Perhaps they did and either the candidates weren't up to snuff, or we left them wanting.
This hesitancy of anyone suitable to show interest in the job is a worrisome development, it would be interesting to know where Podunk is falling short in the world of executive managers. Perhaps the very public problems of Podunk over the last few years have scared off any potential candidates. One wonders if they’re going to have much more success with more time and more names.
With four months lead time; we would have hoped that one candidate would already be in place. It would be a welcome thing for Podunkians to hear word of a reassuring choice; one who would provide good value for our initial 15,000 dollar investment (not to mention the rather generous salary provided).
Instead, it’s more mystery and mixed messages from the folks at 3rd Avenue and Fulton. Leaving many a Podunkian to wonder just what is going on and why despite the challenges offered up, nobody wants to take what should be a pretty good job.
The replacement for the long since departed Victor Kumar, who left his job in August but remained on the payroll until October, has been going on through the fall and apparently not to much success. The firm charged with identifying and recommending a suitable replacement, came up with one candidate who it seems was on the road to Podunk, until the candidates family stepped in and expressed a hesitancy to relocate to our little corner of the rainforest.
To tide the town over until a permanent administrator can be found, City Council is apparently set to announce an interim manager next week, set to guide Podunk into the New Year and maybe beyond.
As for the permanent replacement, it’s apparently back to square one, with 10 to 15,000 dollars reportedly spent already and extra costs expected as the extended search now continues, the meter continues to tick on that particular tab.
It’s curious that the executive search firm couldn’t have provided a short list of at least five or six possibilities to choose from. Thus not requiring an extension until those names had been vetted and those candidates eliminated. Perhaps they did and either the candidates weren't up to snuff, or we left them wanting.
This hesitancy of anyone suitable to show interest in the job is a worrisome development, it would be interesting to know where Podunk is falling short in the world of executive managers. Perhaps the very public problems of Podunk over the last few years have scared off any potential candidates. One wonders if they’re going to have much more success with more time and more names.
With four months lead time; we would have hoped that one candidate would already be in place. It would be a welcome thing for Podunkians to hear word of a reassuring choice; one who would provide good value for our initial 15,000 dollar investment (not to mention the rather generous salary provided).
Instead, it’s more mystery and mixed messages from the folks at 3rd Avenue and Fulton. Leaving many a Podunkian to wonder just what is going on and why despite the challenges offered up, nobody wants to take what should be a pretty good job.
Not quite the World Baseball Classic
The idea was a pretty impressive plan, bring together some of the world's baseball superpowers for a seventeen day tournament in March. A wonderful diversion from the harsh March climate and a guaranteed television ratings winner world wide. The winning team able to lay claim as the world's premiere baseball nation.
Originally sixteen teams were named to the World Cup style pool system, working their way through the four different groups to the tournament final. Baseball nations such as Japan, The United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Korea, Dominican Republic and others where Major League Baseball mines it's players of today, were invited to assemble their best and send them off to do battle.
But as of today, one nation won't be stepping into the batters box on March 3rd, the United States government has decided to not issue travel permits for Cuba to send it's players to the inaugural tournament. The US Treasury department, citing the current trade embargo against the Communist nation has refused to allow players from the island nation to enter the USA, causing a few headaches for Baseball Classic officials and denying baseball fans the chance to see one of the top baseball producing nations send their best.
The joint venture between Major League Baseball and the Players Association had hoped to capture some of the excitement that the World Cup of Hockey and the grand daddy of World Tournaments the World Cup of Soccer generate. And it really should be a rather exciting spectacle considering the number of Non-Americans that make a career out of professional baseball.
The issue may not be final just yet though, within hours of the announcement from the Treasury Department the lobbying for it's reversal had already begun. A number of US congressmen and Senators vowed to try and make sure the World Baseball Classic included a team from Cuba.
The American position seems rather hypocritical as they don't ban Cuban teams from Internationally sanctioned events held in their country such as the Olympics or Pan Am games, for they know if they did they would never host another international event again.
It would be a welcome change for pace for the US, to officially accept Cuban participation in their national past time, especially since a good number of Cubans over the years have provided some spectacular moments for baseball. To exclude them from participation in the World Baseball Classic would only highlight their narrow mindedness and diminish the credibility of the tournament.
Originally sixteen teams were named to the World Cup style pool system, working their way through the four different groups to the tournament final. Baseball nations such as Japan, The United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Korea, Dominican Republic and others where Major League Baseball mines it's players of today, were invited to assemble their best and send them off to do battle.
But as of today, one nation won't be stepping into the batters box on March 3rd, the United States government has decided to not issue travel permits for Cuba to send it's players to the inaugural tournament. The US Treasury department, citing the current trade embargo against the Communist nation has refused to allow players from the island nation to enter the USA, causing a few headaches for Baseball Classic officials and denying baseball fans the chance to see one of the top baseball producing nations send their best.
The joint venture between Major League Baseball and the Players Association had hoped to capture some of the excitement that the World Cup of Hockey and the grand daddy of World Tournaments the World Cup of Soccer generate. And it really should be a rather exciting spectacle considering the number of Non-Americans that make a career out of professional baseball.
The issue may not be final just yet though, within hours of the announcement from the Treasury Department the lobbying for it's reversal had already begun. A number of US congressmen and Senators vowed to try and make sure the World Baseball Classic included a team from Cuba.
The American position seems rather hypocritical as they don't ban Cuban teams from Internationally sanctioned events held in their country such as the Olympics or Pan Am games, for they know if they did they would never host another international event again.
It would be a welcome change for pace for the US, to officially accept Cuban participation in their national past time, especially since a good number of Cubans over the years have provided some spectacular moments for baseball. To exclude them from participation in the World Baseball Classic would only highlight their narrow mindedness and diminish the credibility of the tournament.
Pictures of Podunk: The Prince Rupert Yacht Club docks
Some of the boats at the Prince Rupert Yacht Club. Fall and Winter don't have quite the same volume as the summer months, but it's still a rather busy place to be. Located in the Cow Bay area it's home to many an adventurer.Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Christmas caroling with Scott Reid and the Liberal chorale
Coming soon to a neighborhood near you, Scott Reid with his wandering minstrels and singers, ready to regale you with this all time Christmas favourite. (Ralph Goodale and John Embury will be touring senior citizens homes this week as well, taking the Liberal spirit to our seniors, with their own special songs!)
We see that.............
Longtime Podunkians or those that lived here in the nineties will recognize those three words as the key catch phrase of the newspaper Prince Rupert This Week. Back in the early nineties, those three little words would catch the attention of many a Podunkian, some were the subjects, others observers, but everyone was a reader of that column.
We mention that, because we saw yesterday in the Daily Podunkian that former This Week editor Gerry Deiter passed away in Victoria over the weekend. The journalist/photographer who was still involved in the media at the age of 70, suffered a heart attack on a sidewalk of the capital city and could not be revived.
Deiter, arrived for good in Canada from the US in the seventies, he probably is best known nationally and internationally for his pictures of the John and Yoko bed in for peace in 1969. As it happens at the time of his passing, those same pictures are part of a display of Lennon photo’s currently showing at the Royal Museum of BC. (His photos of the John Lennon/Yoko Ono bed in can be found at this link).They take the form of pubic testimony to his place in the lore of pop culture.
But in Prince Rupert, he’ll probably be best remembered for his newspaper skills and in providing one of the few successful attempts at taking on the Daily News. This Week launched like nothing seen here before, it was a lively upbeat weekly, which realizing the limitations of a weekly press run, featured a heavy dose of commentary, in depth feature articles and an arts and entertainment section that reflected a vibrant arts scene in the community. The arrival of This Week shook up the media scene in the nineties with its flashy graphics and well written articles, it was part Bohemian escape and part Front Page, the employees believing they were changing the media landscape here.
But it was, The We see feature that was of particular interest to the people of Podunk, it was like being a barfly at your favourite watering hole catching up on the local trade of gossip. It did however cause controversy from time to time; many an angry phone call was directed to the This Week offices in complaint of an appearance in the feature. But as they say, if they're talking about you, they're probably reading you!
As time would move along, the feature became much tamer and less salacious, which coincided in the papers evolution into really just another paper, not breaking news anymore, at times seeming to go through the motions. It still however caused enough concern at the Daily, that they used that long time business strategy of if you can’t beat them, buy them. Deiter himself recounted those halcyon days of journalism for the Straight Goods website in November of this year. And while his hyperbole of suggesting they were the paper of record after three weeks probably isn't quite correct, they did in the long run give the Daily a good run for its money.
From the day of the purchase though, the journalistic spirit of that publication was gone. It eventually morphed into the Extra of today, which makes for a lovely wrapper of flyers and not much more. Deiter had long since sailed off on his boat for Victoria and his table at the Swans pub, where he held court for many years. He no doubt spent a few hours recounting his days on the North Coast and his contribution to the journalistic scene here.
Since that day competitors for the Daily News have come and gone over the years, but none have been able to capture the life that Deiter brought to the newspaper scene here for that brief period of time. We see that the Dieter story in the Daily was placed on the last page of the paper; we suspect that Mr. Deiter would get a chuckle out of the placement! On Monday, it would be the last thing someone would read before they put their paper away, he’d probably enjoy being the final article of the day’s press run.
We mention that, because we saw yesterday in the Daily Podunkian that former This Week editor Gerry Deiter passed away in Victoria over the weekend. The journalist/photographer who was still involved in the media at the age of 70, suffered a heart attack on a sidewalk of the capital city and could not be revived.
Deiter, arrived for good in Canada from the US in the seventies, he probably is best known nationally and internationally for his pictures of the John and Yoko bed in for peace in 1969. As it happens at the time of his passing, those same pictures are part of a display of Lennon photo’s currently showing at the Royal Museum of BC. (His photos of the John Lennon/Yoko Ono bed in can be found at this link).They take the form of pubic testimony to his place in the lore of pop culture.
But in Prince Rupert, he’ll probably be best remembered for his newspaper skills and in providing one of the few successful attempts at taking on the Daily News. This Week launched like nothing seen here before, it was a lively upbeat weekly, which realizing the limitations of a weekly press run, featured a heavy dose of commentary, in depth feature articles and an arts and entertainment section that reflected a vibrant arts scene in the community. The arrival of This Week shook up the media scene in the nineties with its flashy graphics and well written articles, it was part Bohemian escape and part Front Page, the employees believing they were changing the media landscape here.
But it was, The We see feature that was of particular interest to the people of Podunk, it was like being a barfly at your favourite watering hole catching up on the local trade of gossip. It did however cause controversy from time to time; many an angry phone call was directed to the This Week offices in complaint of an appearance in the feature. But as they say, if they're talking about you, they're probably reading you!
As time would move along, the feature became much tamer and less salacious, which coincided in the papers evolution into really just another paper, not breaking news anymore, at times seeming to go through the motions. It still however caused enough concern at the Daily, that they used that long time business strategy of if you can’t beat them, buy them. Deiter himself recounted those halcyon days of journalism for the Straight Goods website in November of this year. And while his hyperbole of suggesting they were the paper of record after three weeks probably isn't quite correct, they did in the long run give the Daily a good run for its money.
From the day of the purchase though, the journalistic spirit of that publication was gone. It eventually morphed into the Extra of today, which makes for a lovely wrapper of flyers and not much more. Deiter had long since sailed off on his boat for Victoria and his table at the Swans pub, where he held court for many years. He no doubt spent a few hours recounting his days on the North Coast and his contribution to the journalistic scene here.
Since that day competitors for the Daily News have come and gone over the years, but none have been able to capture the life that Deiter brought to the newspaper scene here for that brief period of time. We see that the Dieter story in the Daily was placed on the last page of the paper; we suspect that Mr. Deiter would get a chuckle out of the placement! On Monday, it would be the last thing someone would read before they put their paper away, he’d probably enjoy being the final article of the day’s press run.
He's but one vote, but sure carries a lot of weight.
He's lost his bully pulpit as he liked to call the cut and thrust of the radio talk show wars. But Rafe Mair has not gone away to quiet woods to reflect and snore. Mair who has held down a post at the Tyee for a while now has weighed in on the Federal Election campaign and the word is good for the Green Party.
Mair crtiques each of the major parties in his article for the Tyee and lands some pretty good blows to all three of our main federal leaders. He succinctly identifies the things that worry most Canadians about each party, their platforms and supporters. Leaving only the Green Party as one in which he feels his vote can be entrusted to.
It in reality probably won't translate into much in the way of votes, but it surely goes a long way in getting the Party's message out to a wider audience. There are still many British Coulmbians who count on Rafe Mair's observations to guide them along a path in the province. Some of them probably couldn't find a Green party candidate to save their souls, but if Rafe says they're fine folk, then they'll get a few votes.
If there is a spike in the Green vote in the tony Shaughnessy neighbourhood or in the estates of British Properties, the local Green candidate can put it down to the Mair effect!
Mair crtiques each of the major parties in his article for the Tyee and lands some pretty good blows to all three of our main federal leaders. He succinctly identifies the things that worry most Canadians about each party, their platforms and supporters. Leaving only the Green Party as one in which he feels his vote can be entrusted to.
It in reality probably won't translate into much in the way of votes, but it surely goes a long way in getting the Party's message out to a wider audience. There are still many British Coulmbians who count on Rafe Mair's observations to guide them along a path in the province. Some of them probably couldn't find a Green party candidate to save their souls, but if Rafe says they're fine folk, then they'll get a few votes.
If there is a spike in the Green vote in the tony Shaughnessy neighbourhood or in the estates of British Properties, the local Green candidate can put it down to the Mair effect!
Monday, December 12, 2005
Pampers and a 2-4 please
The Young Conservatives are having some fun with the verbal faux pas of the suddenly old looking Liberal apparatchiks today.
Their young Conservative blog site makes quick work of the Liberal view of Canada's parenting class.
Their young Conservative blog site makes quick work of the Liberal view of Canada's parenting class.
Big Bert on the Block?
Vancouver Canuck fans woke this morning to a heartfelt conversation between their lumbering hulk Todd Bertuzzi and the Canucks’ host broadcaster John Shorthouse. It seems that Bertuzzi was concerned about an Ed Willes column in Sunday’s Vancouver Province, which basically claimed that Bertuzzi had demanded a trade and no longer got along with head coach Marc Crawford.
The on air interview which aired repeatedly (listen here) on both CKNW and MOJO through most of the day’s sports casts, had a soft spoken Bertuzzi claiming nothing but love for Vancouver, for his team mates and for his coach. No demands for a trade said Bert; he has work to finish in Vancouver.
As the heart strings were being tugged in Vancouver, over on the other side of the country the FAN 590 was fanning the rumors of trade. Bob McCown’s show Prime Time Sports spent a bit of time on the Bertuzzi rumor, suggesting that he might be New York Ranger bound. This week’s co-host Jim Kelly observed that the Canuck’s power forward hasn’t exactly been setting the hockey world on fire these days and could very well be on the block.
The most unlikely name floated for a possible trade, was that of Zdeno Chara of the Ottawa Senators, perhaps based on his performance in Vancouver on Friday night. Though one wonders why the Senators would be interested in trading a key component of their team such as Chara. More likely to be used as trade bait on the Sens might be Chris Phillips, who tends to be overshadowed these days on the blue line by both Chara and Wade Redden. Though even he is pretty important to the Senators line up and it would have to be a solid improvement for the Sens to let Phillips go. Considering Bertuzzi’s inconsistency so far this year, that’s not a trade John Muckler, is likely to make.
Bertuzzi has had Vancouver fans scratching their heads all season long; many a talk show has had phone calls wondering when Big Bert is going to turn it up a notch for good this year. He’s had good games and bad ones this year, which gives him a lot in common with his team mates. In some he's coasted at times through the games, a presence on the ice but not necessarily on the scoreboard. Like Clark Gilles of the old Islander days, he seems to only become dangerous when he’s banged around a bit. So far most teams playing the Canucks have been content to let the giant sleep. It's that inability to put his game in gear on a nightly basis that has his name on the trade rumor list now.
It’s indicative of the passion for hockey in Vancouver these days that the rumors even get started. Every little word or expression from a Canuck is subject to investigation and commentary. The Province regularly stirs the pot and gets the Canuck dressing room excited about some issue of the day. This time it was a suggestion that the Canuck’s winger is causing more problems than he’s solving in Vancouver. A suggestion that has had the sports talk shows of Vancouver busy all day long. To get a sample of the buzz on this story check out the CKNW website and it's audio vault , the Dan Russell sportstalk show from 9-12 pm, covered the situation fully.
How the team bands together in aid of their fellow Canuck will be interesting to watch, coaches and GM’s always hope to build up an Us against them relationship between their team and the outside world. It was something that former GM Brian Burke cultivated with great success. The Willes article in the Province on Sunday may have done current GM Dave Nonis a great favor, in one column the underperforming Bertuzzi may have been stirred to action.
Tuesday night the Rangers face the Canucks; it could be a night that sees Bertuzzi begin to reclaim that form that made him a crowd favorite a few seasons ago. If not, the trade rumors will not only continue they’ll become louder and louder with each passing game.
The above post first appeared on my HockeyNation blog, for more items about hockey check it out!
The on air interview which aired repeatedly (listen here) on both CKNW and MOJO through most of the day’s sports casts, had a soft spoken Bertuzzi claiming nothing but love for Vancouver, for his team mates and for his coach. No demands for a trade said Bert; he has work to finish in Vancouver.
As the heart strings were being tugged in Vancouver, over on the other side of the country the FAN 590 was fanning the rumors of trade. Bob McCown’s show Prime Time Sports spent a bit of time on the Bertuzzi rumor, suggesting that he might be New York Ranger bound. This week’s co-host Jim Kelly observed that the Canuck’s power forward hasn’t exactly been setting the hockey world on fire these days and could very well be on the block.
The most unlikely name floated for a possible trade, was that of Zdeno Chara of the Ottawa Senators, perhaps based on his performance in Vancouver on Friday night. Though one wonders why the Senators would be interested in trading a key component of their team such as Chara. More likely to be used as trade bait on the Sens might be Chris Phillips, who tends to be overshadowed these days on the blue line by both Chara and Wade Redden. Though even he is pretty important to the Senators line up and it would have to be a solid improvement for the Sens to let Phillips go. Considering Bertuzzi’s inconsistency so far this year, that’s not a trade John Muckler, is likely to make.
Bertuzzi has had Vancouver fans scratching their heads all season long; many a talk show has had phone calls wondering when Big Bert is going to turn it up a notch for good this year. He’s had good games and bad ones this year, which gives him a lot in common with his team mates. In some he's coasted at times through the games, a presence on the ice but not necessarily on the scoreboard. Like Clark Gilles of the old Islander days, he seems to only become dangerous when he’s banged around a bit. So far most teams playing the Canucks have been content to let the giant sleep. It's that inability to put his game in gear on a nightly basis that has his name on the trade rumor list now.
It’s indicative of the passion for hockey in Vancouver these days that the rumors even get started. Every little word or expression from a Canuck is subject to investigation and commentary. The Province regularly stirs the pot and gets the Canuck dressing room excited about some issue of the day. This time it was a suggestion that the Canuck’s winger is causing more problems than he’s solving in Vancouver. A suggestion that has had the sports talk shows of Vancouver busy all day long. To get a sample of the buzz on this story check out the CKNW website and it's audio vault , the Dan Russell sportstalk show from 9-12 pm, covered the situation fully.
How the team bands together in aid of their fellow Canuck will be interesting to watch, coaches and GM’s always hope to build up an Us against them relationship between their team and the outside world. It was something that former GM Brian Burke cultivated with great success. The Willes article in the Province on Sunday may have done current GM Dave Nonis a great favor, in one column the underperforming Bertuzzi may have been stirred to action.
Tuesday night the Rangers face the Canucks; it could be a night that sees Bertuzzi begin to reclaim that form that made him a crowd favorite a few seasons ago. If not, the trade rumors will not only continue they’ll become louder and louder with each passing game.
The above post first appeared on my HockeyNation blog, for more items about hockey check it out!
Greens, Grits, Lay down your swords!
If Nathan Cullen has his way, the Skeena-Bulkley Valley campaign will be nothing but a two man race. In today's Daily Podunkian, the NDP candidate and current MP suggests that those followers of the Green Party and the Liberal Party should throw their towels into the NDP pile for this election campaign.
Cullen's fear is that the supporters of the other two parties will split the vote in separate directions, allowing Conservative candidate and former Reformer Mike Scott to reclaim the riding for the forces of the right. It's kind of the reverse theory that the Liberals (and a certain high profile union leader from Ontario) have been using in the rest of the country, where they urge staunch NDPers to abandon the sons and daughters of Douglas, Lewis and Woodsworth for the comfort zone of the ruling party.
Cullen is most likely correct in his analysis thus far, Scott probably would benefit from strong campaigns from the Green and Liberal candidates. But he may have to wait for that plan to come together. So far, it's been a rather invisible campaign for all concerned.
Only recently has Cullen opened up a storefront in Prince Rupert, taking over the offices formerly used by the Rendell for mayor campaign (one assumes an exorcism was held to rid the room of the bad vote count vibes). The Greenies, Libs and Conservatives have yet to make any kind of an appearance in the Rupert portion of the riding. It's as if this campaign has yet to officially get under way in the coastal regions.
With the exception of the usual finger pointing about the NDP candidate being too close to the environmentalists or the Conservative guy being in bed with the capitalists and big business barons, there's been precious little in excitement thus far on the north coast and places eastbound in this version of political survivor.
Perhaps there has been an unofficial agreement against outright politicking so far, as there's not much in the way of indication that an election is underway locally. Lawn signs those traditional billboards of political quest, have yet to be seen popping up amongst the Santa's, Angels and Nativity scenes around town. Newspapers too seem to be facing a shortage of election advertising so far, no half page appeals for common good, nor business cards of support solicited can be found to date.
As Christmas moves upon us fast, the local version of election 2006 will certainly not be the two phase project of other parts of Canada. Here in Skeena-Bulkley Valley it seems the real politicking is not to take place until after the Christmas Tree has come down and the last strain of Auld Lang Syne has drifted away.
The politicians had best hope that the electorate don't take that first line to heart as voting day comes up.
Cullen's fear is that the supporters of the other two parties will split the vote in separate directions, allowing Conservative candidate and former Reformer Mike Scott to reclaim the riding for the forces of the right. It's kind of the reverse theory that the Liberals (and a certain high profile union leader from Ontario) have been using in the rest of the country, where they urge staunch NDPers to abandon the sons and daughters of Douglas, Lewis and Woodsworth for the comfort zone of the ruling party.
Cullen is most likely correct in his analysis thus far, Scott probably would benefit from strong campaigns from the Green and Liberal candidates. But he may have to wait for that plan to come together. So far, it's been a rather invisible campaign for all concerned.
Only recently has Cullen opened up a storefront in Prince Rupert, taking over the offices formerly used by the Rendell for mayor campaign (one assumes an exorcism was held to rid the room of the bad vote count vibes). The Greenies, Libs and Conservatives have yet to make any kind of an appearance in the Rupert portion of the riding. It's as if this campaign has yet to officially get under way in the coastal regions.
With the exception of the usual finger pointing about the NDP candidate being too close to the environmentalists or the Conservative guy being in bed with the capitalists and big business barons, there's been precious little in excitement thus far on the north coast and places eastbound in this version of political survivor.
Perhaps there has been an unofficial agreement against outright politicking so far, as there's not much in the way of indication that an election is underway locally. Lawn signs those traditional billboards of political quest, have yet to be seen popping up amongst the Santa's, Angels and Nativity scenes around town. Newspapers too seem to be facing a shortage of election advertising so far, no half page appeals for common good, nor business cards of support solicited can be found to date.
As Christmas moves upon us fast, the local version of election 2006 will certainly not be the two phase project of other parts of Canada. Here in Skeena-Bulkley Valley it seems the real politicking is not to take place until after the Christmas Tree has come down and the last strain of Auld Lang Syne has drifted away.
The politicians had best hope that the electorate don't take that first line to heart as voting day comes up.
Pictures of Podunk: The Rupert Square Mall
Prince Rupert's main shopping destination, the Rupert Square Mall. Located in the downtown area the Upper Parking lot actually has a pretty amazing view of the harbour. Inside, there are a couple of chain stores and more than a fair share of empty spaces at the moment. It will be interesting to watch how the mall fares when the big box stores come a calling on the highway in the next year!Sunday, December 11, 2005
A most Liberal Nanny.
Do Uncle Paulie and his helpers really know best?
I’m not sure whether Scott Reid has seen too much of the Trailer Park Boys on TV or has sat through one to many showings of Bob and Doug McKenzie, but his impression of his fellow Canadians and their parenting skills leaves a lot to be desired.
Reid, the communications director for the Prime Minister did a little mis-communicating on behalf of his boss this weekend with his out loud thoughts on our suitability to be parents. Reid found himself in hot water when he was pooh poohing the Conservative ideas on the daycare situation, suggesting that should the great unwashed of Canada be left to their own devices, they would probably end up buying beer and popcorn with any money supposedly destined for the young ones.
Now while most Canadians probably wouldn’t turn down a brew if offered and everyone loves popcorn, one suspects that the vast majority of the nation’s parents can make a suitable choice when it comes down to bread or beer. Pampers or Pilsner? Well it’s a safe bet that in most cases the nation’s toddlers will be freshly powdered before we sit down to our six packs of beer and trough of popcorn at night. In Reid's world it seems that the whole family unit is destined to deteriorate into Home Alone, unless the Liberals have a say in how the family cash is spent.
The arrogance of the Liberal leader’s spokesman has put his boss in a rather tight spot. All of a sudden the Liberals once again come out sounding like they know better than the people they supposedly are here to serve. Making matters even worse, Reids' statements were later backed by one of Paul Martin's senior advisors John Duffy, providing two smacks on the bottoms for our vociferous little voters today.
Reid’s faux pas comes hot on the heels of a similar mis-statement by Ralph Goodales Communication director,John Embury, who last week described the director of public policy for the Canadian Association of Retired Persons as “old and confused”. It was a comment which he, like Reid in this case, was quick to offer up an apology over.
The damage though may already be done, in less than a week the Liberals have come across as know it all smart asses. A group of folks who seem to think that they and they alone, know what’s best for the country and those inconvenient little obstacles to power, the run of the mill voter. These litte side trips are tending to take them off message and leave an opportunity for the Conservartives to try and claw back some of the voter numbers.
They seem to forget that those same people that will receive the day care monies, also pay the taxes that make the government run in the first place. It's not quite clear how we're not to be trusted to spend our own money.
However, despite their many verbal miscues, they still hold a fairly solid lead on their competition, but they had best reign in their press hacks quickly before any real damage sets in.
So far they’ve ostracized the seniors, the near seniors and parents. They’re not leaving much in the way of wriggle room for potential voter turn out. Young, urban, single, gay and child less folks may be the only constituency left for them, by the time their spokespeople are finished spreading the good word.
Perhaps it’s time for the actual politicians to do some of the talking; surely they can’t inflict any more damage on their campaigns than those they pay to talk for them!
I’m not sure whether Scott Reid has seen too much of the Trailer Park Boys on TV or has sat through one to many showings of Bob and Doug McKenzie, but his impression of his fellow Canadians and their parenting skills leaves a lot to be desired.
Reid, the communications director for the Prime Minister did a little mis-communicating on behalf of his boss this weekend with his out loud thoughts on our suitability to be parents. Reid found himself in hot water when he was pooh poohing the Conservative ideas on the daycare situation, suggesting that should the great unwashed of Canada be left to their own devices, they would probably end up buying beer and popcorn with any money supposedly destined for the young ones.
Now while most Canadians probably wouldn’t turn down a brew if offered and everyone loves popcorn, one suspects that the vast majority of the nation’s parents can make a suitable choice when it comes down to bread or beer. Pampers or Pilsner? Well it’s a safe bet that in most cases the nation’s toddlers will be freshly powdered before we sit down to our six packs of beer and trough of popcorn at night. In Reid's world it seems that the whole family unit is destined to deteriorate into Home Alone, unless the Liberals have a say in how the family cash is spent.
The arrogance of the Liberal leader’s spokesman has put his boss in a rather tight spot. All of a sudden the Liberals once again come out sounding like they know better than the people they supposedly are here to serve. Making matters even worse, Reids' statements were later backed by one of Paul Martin's senior advisors John Duffy, providing two smacks on the bottoms for our vociferous little voters today.
Reid’s faux pas comes hot on the heels of a similar mis-statement by Ralph Goodales Communication director,John Embury, who last week described the director of public policy for the Canadian Association of Retired Persons as “old and confused”. It was a comment which he, like Reid in this case, was quick to offer up an apology over.
The damage though may already be done, in less than a week the Liberals have come across as know it all smart asses. A group of folks who seem to think that they and they alone, know what’s best for the country and those inconvenient little obstacles to power, the run of the mill voter. These litte side trips are tending to take them off message and leave an opportunity for the Conservartives to try and claw back some of the voter numbers.
They seem to forget that those same people that will receive the day care monies, also pay the taxes that make the government run in the first place. It's not quite clear how we're not to be trusted to spend our own money.
However, despite their many verbal miscues, they still hold a fairly solid lead on their competition, but they had best reign in their press hacks quickly before any real damage sets in.
So far they’ve ostracized the seniors, the near seniors and parents. They’re not leaving much in the way of wriggle room for potential voter turn out. Young, urban, single, gay and child less folks may be the only constituency left for them, by the time their spokespeople are finished spreading the good word.
Perhaps it’s time for the actual politicians to do some of the talking; surely they can’t inflict any more damage on their campaigns than those they pay to talk for them!
Calling Clark Griswold!
I suddenly have Christmas light envy, it wasn't bad enough watching my neighbours scamper up their ladders in between typhoon like winds to anchor their led lights, electronic Santa's, flashing elves and snowmen to their respective roofs, trees and such.
But now while surfing the hackingthemainframe site I find a link to a display that would put even Clark Griswold to shame. My poor little display seems like but a solitary railing lamp compared to this light show to rival a Pink Floyd concert.
I'm not sure where this display is found, but wherever it is hydro must be plentiful and cheap!
But now while surfing the hackingthemainframe site I find a link to a display that would put even Clark Griswold to shame. My poor little display seems like but a solitary railing lamp compared to this light show to rival a Pink Floyd concert.
I'm not sure where this display is found, but wherever it is hydro must be plentiful and cheap!
Saturday, December 10, 2005
Good Fortune, Good Strategy or Good Advice?
The spotlight of possible scandal shone briefly once again on the Paul Martin government this week and in the midst of an election campaign, that would make for an unwanted passenger on the Martin campaign trail.
An announcement on November 23rd, that the federal government was not going to change its handling of income trusts and instead would enhance the tax credit on corporate dividends has caused a bit of controversy as the campaign gets fully underway.
What’s up for debate is whether some inside information out of the Finance Ministers office, helped to make a few people make their investment strategies pay off in ways that many find suspicious.
Bloggerland has been full of conspiracy theories that point the finger towards the Liberals, who are busy trying to extricate themselves from the shadow of the sponsorship scandal. To have a new bit of trouble pop up right now, is not something your local Liberal candidate would want to be taking door to door.
It’s a right wing feeding frenzy at the moment, basically limited to a few newspaper columnists and the blogging fanatics who first dug up some of the material that has led to all the questions. The M K Braaten site seems to have done the most research on the issue, going so far as to give a shout out to the Prime Minister’s own personal physician.
It seems that in the hours running up to the official announcement of Goodale’s plans some of those income trusts and dividend paying stocks experienced heavier than usual trading as the Finance Minister prepared to make his statement. This has given many a rather nervous feeling that somebody got a heads up.
Making matters worse for the Liberals was the story on Wednesday, that the Director of Government and Media relations for CARP, Canada’s lobby group for those over the age of fifty, had received advance notice of the announcement to come later that day. If he was getting a heads up, the story goes, how many other folks received advance notice and perhaps acted less than ethically in their pursuit of fortune.
That ink had barely dried, when the retractions came from CARP, as the director Bill Gleberzon said he had misspoken the day previously and had not been notified early. His contradictary comments have put him into the middle of the debate, as everyone tries to piece together the happenings prior to the Goodale announcement.
Things went from bad to worse for the Liberals though, as word got out that a member of Goddale's staff had contacted Mr. Gleberzon to try and help out with the details. As the storm began to build it seems that Goodale’s communication director, John Embury decided to do some damage control and contacted the press, describing Mr. Gleberzon as being old and confused and making an error. Embury quickly apologized for his affront to all those over fifty, but they probably didn’t send Ralph to any seniors homes that day! All in all not a great optical moment for the Goodale or the Martin campaigns.
As the situation continues to fester, the calls for the resignation of the Finance Minister continue to multiply, as do the suggestions that the Liberals haven’t learned anything from the Gomery commission and the fall out of the advertising scandal.
So far the controversy has stayed off the electoral radar, not really affecting the Liberals current lead in the polls. The decision for the Conservatives is whether to dedicate some of their valuable election campaign time to this potential scandal, and making it a major issue of the campaign, or do they stick with their game plan designed prior to the situation coming to light.
With mixed messages coming out about the statement, its timing and the effect it had on the income trust sector, it may be a hard tail to pin on Goodale as the campaign rages on.
Is this more sideshow or is it a true scandal? So far it seems to be in the category of the sideshow! With no smoking gun, all we’re left with is some suspicious activity on the trading floor and some sheepish expressions around the Liberal camp, not to mention the odd foot in the mouth of the Liberal handlers.
However it’s something to file away for after the election. It might make for a nice inquiry, once the new parliament is elected and sitting. After all Judge Gomery is almost out of work, he might be inclined to become our nation's investigator at large.
The way things are going in Ottawa these days, it could be the most permanent position in the land!
An announcement on November 23rd, that the federal government was not going to change its handling of income trusts and instead would enhance the tax credit on corporate dividends has caused a bit of controversy as the campaign gets fully underway.
What’s up for debate is whether some inside information out of the Finance Ministers office, helped to make a few people make their investment strategies pay off in ways that many find suspicious.
Bloggerland has been full of conspiracy theories that point the finger towards the Liberals, who are busy trying to extricate themselves from the shadow of the sponsorship scandal. To have a new bit of trouble pop up right now, is not something your local Liberal candidate would want to be taking door to door.
It’s a right wing feeding frenzy at the moment, basically limited to a few newspaper columnists and the blogging fanatics who first dug up some of the material that has led to all the questions. The M K Braaten site seems to have done the most research on the issue, going so far as to give a shout out to the Prime Minister’s own personal physician.
It seems that in the hours running up to the official announcement of Goodale’s plans some of those income trusts and dividend paying stocks experienced heavier than usual trading as the Finance Minister prepared to make his statement. This has given many a rather nervous feeling that somebody got a heads up.
Making matters worse for the Liberals was the story on Wednesday, that the Director of Government and Media relations for CARP, Canada’s lobby group for those over the age of fifty, had received advance notice of the announcement to come later that day. If he was getting a heads up, the story goes, how many other folks received advance notice and perhaps acted less than ethically in their pursuit of fortune.
That ink had barely dried, when the retractions came from CARP, as the director Bill Gleberzon said he had misspoken the day previously and had not been notified early. His contradictary comments have put him into the middle of the debate, as everyone tries to piece together the happenings prior to the Goodale announcement.
Things went from bad to worse for the Liberals though, as word got out that a member of Goddale's staff had contacted Mr. Gleberzon to try and help out with the details. As the storm began to build it seems that Goodale’s communication director, John Embury decided to do some damage control and contacted the press, describing Mr. Gleberzon as being old and confused and making an error. Embury quickly apologized for his affront to all those over fifty, but they probably didn’t send Ralph to any seniors homes that day! All in all not a great optical moment for the Goodale or the Martin campaigns.
As the situation continues to fester, the calls for the resignation of the Finance Minister continue to multiply, as do the suggestions that the Liberals haven’t learned anything from the Gomery commission and the fall out of the advertising scandal.
So far the controversy has stayed off the electoral radar, not really affecting the Liberals current lead in the polls. The decision for the Conservatives is whether to dedicate some of their valuable election campaign time to this potential scandal, and making it a major issue of the campaign, or do they stick with their game plan designed prior to the situation coming to light.
With mixed messages coming out about the statement, its timing and the effect it had on the income trust sector, it may be a hard tail to pin on Goodale as the campaign rages on.
Is this more sideshow or is it a true scandal? So far it seems to be in the category of the sideshow! With no smoking gun, all we’re left with is some suspicious activity on the trading floor and some sheepish expressions around the Liberal camp, not to mention the odd foot in the mouth of the Liberal handlers.
However it’s something to file away for after the election. It might make for a nice inquiry, once the new parliament is elected and sitting. After all Judge Gomery is almost out of work, he might be inclined to become our nation's investigator at large.
The way things are going in Ottawa these days, it could be the most permanent position in the land!
Pictures of Podunk: Hays Creek
Hay's Creek and the McBride Street Bridge, taken from the plaza at the Jim Ciccone Civic Centre. Friday, December 09, 2005
A Hard Rain's gonna fall and fall and fall!
Podunkians are battening down the hatches and servicing the sump pumps as one of our legendary frontal systems prepares to arrive. Our friends at Environment Canada have issued a Weather Warning for the North Coast. For those watching on the Weather Network, we will be that corner of the map to the left with the big big cloud system stranded over Podunk.
It's estimated that Podunk will receive over 100 mm of rain over the next 24-36 hours as a front system is "draped" over the North Coast.
This follows a rather nasty day Thursday, where rain and wind buffeted the North Coast.
If your faithful Podunk correspondent is away from the keyboard for a while, it's only to make sure the Ark is still seaworthy. Podunkians like to console themselves with the thought that at least we don't have to shovel it, which may be true, an enjoyable thing when the rest of Canada is hauling out the snowbusters.
But when the rain is pounding down as it appears to be preparing to do, it still doesn't hold much er water, with those that have to go outside! Especially those recalcitrant folks that haven't put their Christmas lights up yet!
It's estimated that Podunk will receive over 100 mm of rain over the next 24-36 hours as a front system is "draped" over the North Coast.
This follows a rather nasty day Thursday, where rain and wind buffeted the North Coast.
If your faithful Podunk correspondent is away from the keyboard for a while, it's only to make sure the Ark is still seaworthy. Podunkians like to console themselves with the thought that at least we don't have to shovel it, which may be true, an enjoyable thing when the rest of Canada is hauling out the snowbusters.
But when the rain is pounding down as it appears to be preparing to do, it still doesn't hold much er water, with those that have to go outside! Especially those recalcitrant folks that haven't put their Christmas lights up yet!
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Nash awarded Lou Marsh honours
Steve Nash, who has single handedly tried to bring Canada back to basketball glory in the world, was named the recipient of the Lou Marsh Trophy today. It marks the first time that a basketball player has been named the recipient since the award was first handed out in 1936. It’s a most deserving honor for the quiet leader who ply’s his trade on the Phoenix Suns of the NBA and is one of the most respected players in the NBA...
Nash has long been a fixture on Canada’s national basketball teams, taking his place with pride while many other players chose to sit out the grueling preliminary games, not wishing to bother with a situation in which they saw no upside for their professional careers.
It was largely on the strength of Nash’s play that Canada made it to the quarter finals of the 2000 Olympics. His dedication to the national program is legendary, playing with pride every time he put on the Maple Leaf. He was perhaps the most disappointed Canadian at the Olympics that year when Canada came up short in its medal bid.
His statistics in the NBA speak for themselves, presently leading the league in assists at 168 he’s a dominant player whenever he takes to the court. Recognized last year as the league’s MVP, receiving the Marsh trophy seems like a natural fit for him this year.
Across Canada, a whole new generation of kids has taken up basketball, with dreams of becoming the next Steve Nash. Considering his demeanor both on and off the court, parents couldn’t hope for a better role model. Basketball Canada posted a number of letters sent to them when Nash was named NBA MVP, showing how much respect his homeland had for their quiet hero.
The panelists on the Marsh committee made the right choice this year. If anyone embodies good sportsmanship and good citizenship its Steve Nash, this award is long overdue.
Nash has long been a fixture on Canada’s national basketball teams, taking his place with pride while many other players chose to sit out the grueling preliminary games, not wishing to bother with a situation in which they saw no upside for their professional careers.
It was largely on the strength of Nash’s play that Canada made it to the quarter finals of the 2000 Olympics. His dedication to the national program is legendary, playing with pride every time he put on the Maple Leaf. He was perhaps the most disappointed Canadian at the Olympics that year when Canada came up short in its medal bid.
His statistics in the NBA speak for themselves, presently leading the league in assists at 168 he’s a dominant player whenever he takes to the court. Recognized last year as the league’s MVP, receiving the Marsh trophy seems like a natural fit for him this year.
Across Canada, a whole new generation of kids has taken up basketball, with dreams of becoming the next Steve Nash. Considering his demeanor both on and off the court, parents couldn’t hope for a better role model. Basketball Canada posted a number of letters sent to them when Nash was named NBA MVP, showing how much respect his homeland had for their quiet hero.
The panelists on the Marsh committee made the right choice this year. If anyone embodies good sportsmanship and good citizenship its Steve Nash, this award is long overdue.
Terrace Standard December
The collection of stories from the Terrace Standard for the month of December.
December 28 Credit Unions working on merger
December 28 Investigators probe fatal crash
December 28 Gas Site changed
December 28 Navair stops flying
December 28 Airport doesn't have its own firefighters
December 28 Documents lost when aircraft crashed
December 28 Boy forgoes birthday presents
December 21 Scandal touches North Pole
December 21 Big need for emergency youth shelter
December 21 Ex-boyfriend took a lie detector test
December 21 Search for Tamara continues
December 21 Hawk Air asks for more time to reorganize its finances
December 21 Scott defends record when he was an MP
December 21 Cullen gets a boost from Carole James
December 14 Two in on credit union merger hunt
December 14 Baby Jenna's thriving thanks to a new heart
December 14 Trustees want new look at using School as Board
December 14 Broken rail car spring causes chemical spill at railyard
December 14 Roads reopen after chemical spill
December 7 Send us your Christmas greetings
December 7 Four-day week scares outsiders
December 7 Lack of Sprinkler system allowed fire to spread
December 7 Searching for Tamara
December 7 Contaminated soil plagues local gas station proprietor
December 7 Co-op deadline nears
December 7 Gordon Stamp-Vincent to run for Liberals
December 28 Credit Unions working on merger
December 28 Investigators probe fatal crash
December 28 Gas Site changed
December 28 Navair stops flying
December 28 Airport doesn't have its own firefighters
December 28 Documents lost when aircraft crashed
December 28 Boy forgoes birthday presents
December 21 Scandal touches North Pole
December 21 Big need for emergency youth shelter
December 21 Ex-boyfriend took a lie detector test
December 21 Search for Tamara continues
December 21 Hawk Air asks for more time to reorganize its finances
December 21 Scott defends record when he was an MP
December 21 Cullen gets a boost from Carole James
December 14 Two in on credit union merger hunt
December 14 Baby Jenna's thriving thanks to a new heart
December 14 Trustees want new look at using School as Board
December 14 Broken rail car spring causes chemical spill at railyard
December 14 Roads reopen after chemical spill
December 7 Send us your Christmas greetings
December 7 Four-day week scares outsiders
December 7 Lack of Sprinkler system allowed fire to spread
December 7 Searching for Tamara
December 7 Contaminated soil plagues local gas station proprietor
December 7 Co-op deadline nears
December 7 Gordon Stamp-Vincent to run for Liberals
Pictures of Podunk: Smile's Cafe
A Prince Rupert Legend! Long before the boutique stores, coffee shops and Cruise ship passengers arrived at Cow Bay there was Smile's. Seafood is on the menu in heaping quantities, by far it's the one place everyone wants to know about when they visit the city.Wednesday, December 07, 2005
For those that just can't get enough caffeine
Starbucks look out! Coca Cola is about to kick start the day and keep the java comin' all day long. Coke's marketing department (the same guys that gave us the New Coke, but we digress) are about launch a new project called Coca Cola Blak.
A concoction that combines the traditional taste of Coca Cola Classic and selected coffee extracts. Blak is described as a mid calorie drink similar to C2. The beverage will have half the sugar, calories and carbohydrates of the regular brand. The coffee aspect of it will vary according to local tastes.
It's to be initially offered up in France and then will attempt to conquer the Cola world in the USA and elsewhere in 2006.
And thus begins another round of the Cola wars, as the predominant players Coke and Pepsi vie for the palates and digestive tracts of the worlds soft drink consumers.
A concoction that combines the traditional taste of Coca Cola Classic and selected coffee extracts. Blak is described as a mid calorie drink similar to C2. The beverage will have half the sugar, calories and carbohydrates of the regular brand. The coffee aspect of it will vary according to local tastes.
It's to be initially offered up in France and then will attempt to conquer the Cola world in the USA and elsewhere in 2006.
And thus begins another round of the Cola wars, as the predominant players Coke and Pepsi vie for the palates and digestive tracts of the worlds soft drink consumers.
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Thanks for your interest, but all positions have been filled! (Thank God)
The thing about elections is the parties riding the top of the polls, always seem to be the ones attracting the crowds to get on the bandwagon.
Such is the case in Quebec, where the Bloc Quebecois candidate for Apraham Naziblian found one would be supporter a little hotter than most. Naziblian who is taking on Immigration Minister Denis Coderre in the Montreal riding of Bourassa.
Bloc Quebecois handlers have had to sidetrack the offers of support from Adil Charkaoui, who was arrested in 2003 under suspicion of ties to the Al Qaida movement. Accusations which he has denied and for which he spent two years in detention without charges, presently out on bail since February with strict conditions, Charkaoui has but one wish to unseat the Minister of Immigration in his own riding.
The Bloc issued a statement that proclaimed "Charkaoui does not have any official role within the party and has not been solicited for help." The optics of a possible terrorist handing out lawn signs and knocking on doors probably isn't a vision that the Bloc would like to see put on the nightly news
Perhaps Gilles Duceppe's call to action of a few days ago, has attracted a few folks that the Bloc might wish would participate in a more quiet form.
Such is the case in Quebec, where the Bloc Quebecois candidate for Apraham Naziblian found one would be supporter a little hotter than most. Naziblian who is taking on Immigration Minister Denis Coderre in the Montreal riding of Bourassa.
Bloc Quebecois handlers have had to sidetrack the offers of support from Adil Charkaoui, who was arrested in 2003 under suspicion of ties to the Al Qaida movement. Accusations which he has denied and for which he spent two years in detention without charges, presently out on bail since February with strict conditions, Charkaoui has but one wish to unseat the Minister of Immigration in his own riding.
The Bloc issued a statement that proclaimed "Charkaoui does not have any official role within the party and has not been solicited for help." The optics of a possible terrorist handing out lawn signs and knocking on doors probably isn't a vision that the Bloc would like to see put on the nightly news
Perhaps Gilles Duceppe's call to action of a few days ago, has attracted a few folks that the Bloc might wish would participate in a more quiet form.
The Three Wise Men (and a few others) of the Skeena-Bulkley Valley!
And then there were three nominated for the Big Three parties. The Liberal piece of the Election jigsaw fell into place in the Skeena-Bulkley Valley riding, as the Paul Martin team added Gordon Vincent-Stamp to the parade of candidates for elected offices. Although as of the time of this posting the news had not yet hit the Liberal website!
With his arrival on the scene all three of the main parties have representation in one of Canada’s largest ridings (by size not population) ready to travel the width and breadth in aid of a seat in parliament.
The Liberal candidate will join incumbent Nathan Cullen who won the riding in the last general election from his base of the Smithers area. Back for another run at office is former Reform MP Mike Scott, who is running for the Conservatives who last, sent Andy Burton to Ottawa in what seems like eons ago.
Still to be heard from is the Green Party, which has yet to send their chosen one into the debate and out onto the hustings. Keeping one of the lowest profiles seen in a long time.
Last election, the Liberals recruited a “star” candidate to seek office, when Miles Richardson sought the vote. The high profile First Nations’ leader could not overcome the lead of the NDP candidate Cullen and pulled up in third place, far short of the required margin to head for office and a possible Martin cabinet post.
When Richardson declared as a candidate in the last election, the Bulkley Valley-Skeena was treated to a whistle stop tour by the new Liberal leader. Including a short little get together at the Podunk airport, which considering the logistics of getting to, showed great dedication by Liberals. So far Air Martin has come nowhere near the Northwest.
With a Liberal with a lesser profile this time, it will be interesting to see if the Liberal vote solidifies, or bleeds away to the NDP and the Conservatives depending on the individual Liberal voters tilt. Liberalism provincially in BC is very much a mixed tent, one part social consciousness and another part fiscal zealot more inclined towards the right wing. It splits down more among the Federal lines during election time. How that vote splits could go a long ways in deciding if Cullen repeats his success of 2004, or if the Conservatives pick up enough votes to reclaim the riding they last held in 2002. Considering the Liberal history in the riding, it’s doubtful that they can retake the riding they last controlled back in the days of Iona Campagnola.
Expect to see much discussion of the Container Port as part of the Liberal platform, appealing the future growth of the area to help bring back some of that drifting Liberal vote. Paul Martin as a spokesperson for Prince Rupert and the Northwest will no doubt be a constant theme of the campagin, but one wonders if that will be enough to move the Liberals up from their third place finish of 2004.
This election could see a local reversal of the Hargrove doctrine, that of endorsing Paul Martin and electing Liberals instead of NDP candidates, in ridings where the NDP aren’t expected to win. With Cullen the perceived favourite in this riding at the moment, it will be interesting to see how many dedicated Liberals abandon their candidate to try to make sure that the Cullen seat is not lost and returned to the Conservatives.
With his arrival on the scene all three of the main parties have representation in one of Canada’s largest ridings (by size not population) ready to travel the width and breadth in aid of a seat in parliament.
The Liberal candidate will join incumbent Nathan Cullen who won the riding in the last general election from his base of the Smithers area. Back for another run at office is former Reform MP Mike Scott, who is running for the Conservatives who last, sent Andy Burton to Ottawa in what seems like eons ago.
Still to be heard from is the Green Party, which has yet to send their chosen one into the debate and out onto the hustings. Keeping one of the lowest profiles seen in a long time.
Last election, the Liberals recruited a “star” candidate to seek office, when Miles Richardson sought the vote. The high profile First Nations’ leader could not overcome the lead of the NDP candidate Cullen and pulled up in third place, far short of the required margin to head for office and a possible Martin cabinet post.
When Richardson declared as a candidate in the last election, the Bulkley Valley-Skeena was treated to a whistle stop tour by the new Liberal leader. Including a short little get together at the Podunk airport, which considering the logistics of getting to, showed great dedication by Liberals. So far Air Martin has come nowhere near the Northwest.
With a Liberal with a lesser profile this time, it will be interesting to see if the Liberal vote solidifies, or bleeds away to the NDP and the Conservatives depending on the individual Liberal voters tilt. Liberalism provincially in BC is very much a mixed tent, one part social consciousness and another part fiscal zealot more inclined towards the right wing. It splits down more among the Federal lines during election time. How that vote splits could go a long ways in deciding if Cullen repeats his success of 2004, or if the Conservatives pick up enough votes to reclaim the riding they last held in 2002. Considering the Liberal history in the riding, it’s doubtful that they can retake the riding they last controlled back in the days of Iona Campagnola.
Expect to see much discussion of the Container Port as part of the Liberal platform, appealing the future growth of the area to help bring back some of that drifting Liberal vote. Paul Martin as a spokesperson for Prince Rupert and the Northwest will no doubt be a constant theme of the campagin, but one wonders if that will be enough to move the Liberals up from their third place finish of 2004.
This election could see a local reversal of the Hargrove doctrine, that of endorsing Paul Martin and electing Liberals instead of NDP candidates, in ridings where the NDP aren’t expected to win. With Cullen the perceived favourite in this riding at the moment, it will be interesting to see how many dedicated Liberals abandon their candidate to try to make sure that the Cullen seat is not lost and returned to the Conservatives.
Pictures of Podunk: The Carving Shed
Quietly tucked away in a corner of the Courthouse grounds, the Carving Shed is one of the main sights to see in Prince Rupert. First Nations' carvers can be found inside working on many different projects.Monday, December 05, 2005
Land of the disappeared?
After only one week on the campaign trail, the rhetoric in Quebec is already threatening to get out of hand and there is still seven weeks to go until election day.
The latest blow up between the Bloc Quebecois and the Liberal party of Canada has brought out the specter of Nazism, which is a stretch even for these two rather vitriolic enemies.
Over the weekend, Gilles Duceppe seemed overcome with a sense of power, as he bellowed to the masses that he wanted to make every single Liberal in the province disappear. Suggesting that the province was on the verge of a Bloc Sweep of historic proportions. The statement caused the Transport Minister (and former Bloc co-founder) Jean Lapierre to comment that those were the words of the era of Nazism, a statement that has taken the election campaign to a new level of intolerance, even by Quebec standards.
As the word images played themselves out in the Quebec media over the weekend, the Canadian Jewish Council in Quebec waded into the fray on Monday, suggesting that the Ministers comments, while said in the heat of battle, were still wholly inappropriate and in fact diminished the horrors of the days of Nazism.
Duceppe took a step back on Monday apologizing for his terminology and said what he meant to say was, that the Bloc would like to capture all the Liberal seats in Quebec. For good measure, he also asked for an apology from Mr. Lapierre for his Nazi reference.
Liberal officials came out with a statement that Mr. Lapierre would no longer use the Nazi word when making comparisons in the election campaign. Which we suspect is more of a positioning statement rather than an apology, as the words I regret or I'm sorry don't seem to be in any of the sentences.
The week one sniping is just an indication of how heated the situation in Quebec has become with the election call. One wonders how rancorous the debate could actually become by January 23rd.
All in all the season of peace and goodwill towards all men is off to a rather rough start in Quebec.
Hyperbole, thy name is Quebec!
The latest blow up between the Bloc Quebecois and the Liberal party of Canada has brought out the specter of Nazism, which is a stretch even for these two rather vitriolic enemies.
Over the weekend, Gilles Duceppe seemed overcome with a sense of power, as he bellowed to the masses that he wanted to make every single Liberal in the province disappear. Suggesting that the province was on the verge of a Bloc Sweep of historic proportions. The statement caused the Transport Minister (and former Bloc co-founder) Jean Lapierre to comment that those were the words of the era of Nazism, a statement that has taken the election campaign to a new level of intolerance, even by Quebec standards.
As the word images played themselves out in the Quebec media over the weekend, the Canadian Jewish Council in Quebec waded into the fray on Monday, suggesting that the Ministers comments, while said in the heat of battle, were still wholly inappropriate and in fact diminished the horrors of the days of Nazism.
Duceppe took a step back on Monday apologizing for his terminology and said what he meant to say was, that the Bloc would like to capture all the Liberal seats in Quebec. For good measure, he also asked for an apology from Mr. Lapierre for his Nazi reference.
Liberal officials came out with a statement that Mr. Lapierre would no longer use the Nazi word when making comparisons in the election campaign. Which we suspect is more of a positioning statement rather than an apology, as the words I regret or I'm sorry don't seem to be in any of the sentences.
The week one sniping is just an indication of how heated the situation in Quebec has become with the election call. One wonders how rancorous the debate could actually become by January 23rd.
All in all the season of peace and goodwill towards all men is off to a rather rough start in Quebec.
Hyperbole, thy name is Quebec!
Mr. Seigenthaler, on the grassy knoll, with a rifle.
The Wikipedia encyclopedia experiment has run into a wee bit of a credibility problem all of a sudden. The on line, constantly updating encyclopedia, which asks internet users to become on line historians has discovered that not everyone is interested in the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.
John Seigenthaler, a well known American journalist and a former official in the Robert Kennedy camp, found that his biography on Wikipedia offered up some rather disturbing facts that were really more in the realm of fiction. In an on line posting to the Wikipedia website, an on line contributor had suggested that Seigenthaler had been a suspect in both the assassinations of Robert F. Kennedy and his brother, President John F. Kennedy.
Seigenthaler, who is a founding editorial director of USA Today was outraged at those accusations and other factual errors that he found in the biography of his career. Included in the bogus information files for the bio, were suggestions of support for Nazism and of having lived in the Soviet Union. Points which Seigenthaler says made it into Wikipedia due to loose controls over information input and a shoddy sense of editing by those in charge of the site.
His comments point out a problem with the living encylopedia idea, which depends on hundreds of volunteers to make contributions, leaving the project ripe for abuse and even worse a forum for some serious character assassination.
Wikipedia's founder a fellow by the name of Jimmy Wales, says that all contributors will now be required to register on line before they create an entry. However, those that are logging on to modify an existing article will still be able to log on without registering , which is hardly the thing of comprehensive quality control.
The Wikipedia project is an interesting approach to history archiving, but ultimately will only be as good as the respect one has for the finished product. If it becomes nothing but a dumping ground for grudges, mischief and libelous statements, then it's credibility will diminish to that of a game of we've got a secret.
Once again the old saying "don't believe everything that you read" holds a serious amount of truth to it. Just ask Mr. Seigenthaler and his tattered reputation.
John Seigenthaler, a well known American journalist and a former official in the Robert Kennedy camp, found that his biography on Wikipedia offered up some rather disturbing facts that were really more in the realm of fiction. In an on line posting to the Wikipedia website, an on line contributor had suggested that Seigenthaler had been a suspect in both the assassinations of Robert F. Kennedy and his brother, President John F. Kennedy.
Seigenthaler, who is a founding editorial director of USA Today was outraged at those accusations and other factual errors that he found in the biography of his career. Included in the bogus information files for the bio, were suggestions of support for Nazism and of having lived in the Soviet Union. Points which Seigenthaler says made it into Wikipedia due to loose controls over information input and a shoddy sense of editing by those in charge of the site.
His comments point out a problem with the living encylopedia idea, which depends on hundreds of volunteers to make contributions, leaving the project ripe for abuse and even worse a forum for some serious character assassination.
Wikipedia's founder a fellow by the name of Jimmy Wales, says that all contributors will now be required to register on line before they create an entry. However, those that are logging on to modify an existing article will still be able to log on without registering , which is hardly the thing of comprehensive quality control.
The Wikipedia project is an interesting approach to history archiving, but ultimately will only be as good as the respect one has for the finished product. If it becomes nothing but a dumping ground for grudges, mischief and libelous statements, then it's credibility will diminish to that of a game of we've got a secret.
Once again the old saying "don't believe everything that you read" holds a serious amount of truth to it. Just ask Mr. Seigenthaler and his tattered reputation.
Sunday, December 04, 2005
What colour is his parachute?
Michael Ignatieff continues to be the candidate from the riding of trouble. Parachuted into the Metro Toronto riding of Etobicoke-Lakeshore just before the election call, the scholar and some say future leader of the Liberal party (and even possible future Prime Minister) has had nothing but a troubled entry into federal politics.
Starting with his arrival in the Etobicoke-Lakeshore riding, dropped in by the Paul Martin team and heralded as one of their “star” candidates. His decision to see political office was hailed as a day of great achievement for politics, a scholarly man ready to help shape our destiny.
The only drawback was a certain hesitancy of the local Liberals to adopt their newfound representative. Many are convinced that the former MP, Jean Augustine was pushed out of the way to make way for the star, something that Augustine denies (even as rumours run rampant that the Ontario Liberals have a position for her in Ontario) , but yet the image problems continue.
Ukrainian Canadians which make up a portion of the ethnic mix of Etobicoke were in particular less than enamored of their chosen candidate, suggesting that he had a rather nasty anti Ukrainian tone to his beliefs, something that Ignatieff has resolutely denied.
Ignatieff survived a nasty little procedural battle in the riding to secure his nomination, but at the expense of a fair amount of bad feelings amongst some of the local riding residents. There are still calls for a new nomination vote to clear the air once and for all.
Today’s latest bit of trouble revolves around an article he wrote in 2004 for the New York Times magazine, one in which he presented his thoughts on the use of different means to extract information from terrorists. The article entitled Lesser Evils explored a number of interrogation methods that could be used by the military and police to gain useful information from terrorist organizations.
To some his words were a tacit acceptance of torture, at least that‘s the opinion of NDP candidate Marilyn Churley, who has questioned at length the beliefs of Ignatieff. She went so far as to ask on CTV’s Question Period if he still supported the use of torture.
We’re not sure what the local issues in Etobicoke-Lakeshore are, but they certainly look more interesting than the usual themes of paving the roads and local job opportunities. It will be interesting to see how Ignatieff navigates around these contentious issues that have come to haunt his arrival on the political scene. As someone of a bit more substance than many of our wanna be MP's, he certainly seems to have become a lightning rod for controversy in the short time he's been back in the country. One mis-step and the potential leader of tomorrow, could become the has been of yesterday!
As for the colour of that Ignatieff parachute, well it just may be a Crimson Red hue. He says its not packed and ready for use, but many wonder if he should maybe make take it out and make sure it still works.
Starting with his arrival in the Etobicoke-Lakeshore riding, dropped in by the Paul Martin team and heralded as one of their “star” candidates. His decision to see political office was hailed as a day of great achievement for politics, a scholarly man ready to help shape our destiny.
The only drawback was a certain hesitancy of the local Liberals to adopt their newfound representative. Many are convinced that the former MP, Jean Augustine was pushed out of the way to make way for the star, something that Augustine denies (even as rumours run rampant that the Ontario Liberals have a position for her in Ontario) , but yet the image problems continue.
Ukrainian Canadians which make up a portion of the ethnic mix of Etobicoke were in particular less than enamored of their chosen candidate, suggesting that he had a rather nasty anti Ukrainian tone to his beliefs, something that Ignatieff has resolutely denied.
Ignatieff survived a nasty little procedural battle in the riding to secure his nomination, but at the expense of a fair amount of bad feelings amongst some of the local riding residents. There are still calls for a new nomination vote to clear the air once and for all.
Today’s latest bit of trouble revolves around an article he wrote in 2004 for the New York Times magazine, one in which he presented his thoughts on the use of different means to extract information from terrorists. The article entitled Lesser Evils explored a number of interrogation methods that could be used by the military and police to gain useful information from terrorist organizations.
To some his words were a tacit acceptance of torture, at least that‘s the opinion of NDP candidate Marilyn Churley, who has questioned at length the beliefs of Ignatieff. She went so far as to ask on CTV’s Question Period if he still supported the use of torture.
We’re not sure what the local issues in Etobicoke-Lakeshore are, but they certainly look more interesting than the usual themes of paving the roads and local job opportunities. It will be interesting to see how Ignatieff navigates around these contentious issues that have come to haunt his arrival on the political scene. As someone of a bit more substance than many of our wanna be MP's, he certainly seems to have become a lightning rod for controversy in the short time he's been back in the country. One mis-step and the potential leader of tomorrow, could become the has been of yesterday!
As for the colour of that Ignatieff parachute, well it just may be a Crimson Red hue. He says its not packed and ready for use, but many wonder if he should maybe make take it out and make sure it still works.
You can own us, just don't expect to get a job with us!
Podunk Cable and Telephone has entered a brave new world, as they launch the merger of the phone and cable operations that used to operate under separate companies.
With new phone books at every door and a new paint job for every van, Podunk’s brand new company has been born. The cable portion is ready to tackle those many challenges, which have seen satellite dishes proliferate like summer dandelions around the city.
In order to show that they mean business now, the new company has gone so far as to hire a new marketing director from Alberta, to take up the charge of the wired brigade. Added as part of the celebration announcement in the Daily Podunk of Friday, the story heralded the start of a new era in communications for Podunk.
It’s an interesting hire of the marketing director, since the company which is owned by the citizens of Podunk (even if they never knew they were buying, almost until it was bought), never to our knowledge conducted a local search for a marketing person. Despite a rather high unemployment rate in the service area, it seems that there was no one locally capable of marketing the new Cable operation, nor were they given the opportunity to apply for the post. Considering the secretive nature of the company’s purchase, hiring new employees without at least considering the local yokels, could result in a bit of a civic blow back.
Now any company is welcome to hire the best possible candidate for any position it has, but surely they could at least give the folks shelling out the bucks for cable and telephone services, a shot at the jobs at the other end of those payment plans.
Regardless, one look around town shows a hard road ahead for any cablevision marketer, 60 channels on cable, against the hundreds offered by satellite providers at much the same, or even less cost. With an already impressive array of satellite dishes on Podunkian homes, it’s going to take a whole lot of marketing to bring down the existing dishes and stop the migration to new ones!
With new phone books at every door and a new paint job for every van, Podunk’s brand new company has been born. The cable portion is ready to tackle those many challenges, which have seen satellite dishes proliferate like summer dandelions around the city.
In order to show that they mean business now, the new company has gone so far as to hire a new marketing director from Alberta, to take up the charge of the wired brigade. Added as part of the celebration announcement in the Daily Podunk of Friday, the story heralded the start of a new era in communications for Podunk.
It’s an interesting hire of the marketing director, since the company which is owned by the citizens of Podunk (even if they never knew they were buying, almost until it was bought), never to our knowledge conducted a local search for a marketing person. Despite a rather high unemployment rate in the service area, it seems that there was no one locally capable of marketing the new Cable operation, nor were they given the opportunity to apply for the post. Considering the secretive nature of the company’s purchase, hiring new employees without at least considering the local yokels, could result in a bit of a civic blow back.
Now any company is welcome to hire the best possible candidate for any position it has, but surely they could at least give the folks shelling out the bucks for cable and telephone services, a shot at the jobs at the other end of those payment plans.
Regardless, one look around town shows a hard road ahead for any cablevision marketer, 60 channels on cable, against the hundreds offered by satellite providers at much the same, or even less cost. With an already impressive array of satellite dishes on Podunkian homes, it’s going to take a whole lot of marketing to bring down the existing dishes and stop the migration to new ones!
The Poster Boy
Not many candidates probably wish for a low profile, but in the case of Stephen Harper and his arrival in the pages of the Washington Times, a little anonymity in DC could go a long way at home.
Patrick Basham (described as a senior fellow at the Cato Institute) has penned a rather effusive commentary in the right wing Times, one which certainly will be posted on Liberal and NDP bulletin boards for the next little while. It's almost a text book guide to everything, everyone is afraid of in a Harper policy book.
Basham calls Harper a potential gift for Bush. Suggesting that a Harper victory would catapult him into the new "best friend" category for the embattled President. Basham goes on to describe Harper as pushing aside Tony Blair, as the potential poster boy for an ideal foreign leader in the eyes of the Bushites.
And while its no secret that Harper probably would have much more in common with the Republican party than Paul Martin, its not something he probably wants highlighted over the next fifty days or so. At least not by think tanks in the United States, which claim a smile for George Bush could come with a Harper election.
Sometimes, it seems that too much good press, can be a bad thing.
Patrick Basham (described as a senior fellow at the Cato Institute) has penned a rather effusive commentary in the right wing Times, one which certainly will be posted on Liberal and NDP bulletin boards for the next little while. It's almost a text book guide to everything, everyone is afraid of in a Harper policy book.
Basham calls Harper a potential gift for Bush. Suggesting that a Harper victory would catapult him into the new "best friend" category for the embattled President. Basham goes on to describe Harper as pushing aside Tony Blair, as the potential poster boy for an ideal foreign leader in the eyes of the Bushites.
And while its no secret that Harper probably would have much more in common with the Republican party than Paul Martin, its not something he probably wants highlighted over the next fifty days or so. At least not by think tanks in the United States, which claim a smile for George Bush could come with a Harper election.
Sometimes, it seems that too much good press, can be a bad thing.
Solidarity Forever! (or at least until election day)
There may be some confusion in the union halls of Canada this weekend. As Buzz Hargrove, grand pooh bah of all Canadian unions came out and suggested that union members should think about the Liberal party as a fine place for their votes to find a home.
One imagines Jack Layton trying to figure out where his base just went to, with Hargrove tying his wagon to the Liberal machine. Strategic voting has come to the union movement, with the Hargrove solution being to vote NDP in those ridings where they are a shoo in, and Liberal in all others, rather than give the Conservatives the benefit of a split vote.
The thinking seems to be that in vote rich Ontario, the Liberals probably would be more inclined to help out the Auto workers during this time of major restructuring in the auto industry. Liberals dedicated as they are for industrial hand outs and corporate assistance in times of economic stress, probably fit more into the CAW’s plans than even the NDP could. Reality dictates that the NDP probably will never form a National gov’t, so the CAW may as well skip the preliminaries and just move on to the main event.
For Hargrove it’s probably a case of an investment in Martin today, would come back and help Hargrove’s own constituency later on in the new year, when the big cuts and belt tightening take effect. With inevitable threats to close even more plants to come, it probably makes political sense for the CAW to find a place at the front of the Liberal line, but it will be a hard sell for those true apostles of a workers paradise.
And while it may be a pragmatic approach to voting, it’s not being universally met with glee by some of Mr. Hargrove’s rank and file. The CAW in Saguenay (with a large Bloc Quebecois population) has condemned Hargrove’s plans suggesting that the union should stay out of politics. This would be a fine piece of theatre if only the bona fides of the Saguenay locals weren’t so tied to the sovereigntist movement of Quebec. In Quebec the NDP has never been able to crack the nationalist crowd’s core, members there prefer their brothers and sisters in the Bloc federally and the Parti Quebecois provincially. Imagine their horror at the national boss suggesting they support the Satan of all they abhor.
The Buzz from Buzz also hasn’t quite resonated with the NDP rank and file either, in fact they aren’t exactly adopting the theory of suitable second choice. In Vancouver Centre the NDP have purposely put in a candidate to topple Liberal MP Hedy Fry. Svend Robinson has been brought out of political exile (after his diamond ring fiasco) to stand for the NDP in the Vancouver riding, hoping to steal (sorry I couldn’t resist) enough of the Fry vote away to deny her a return to Ottawa.
Hargrove’s comments came at the end of the first week of campaigning and delivered a much welcomed push for the Martin campaign, while at the same time must have knocked some of the air out of Smilin’ Jack Laytons theme of the NDP on the rise. Who would have thought that the first shocking moment of the campaign would come at the expense of Jack Layton and the NDP. Layton surely must be asking aloud, Et tu Buzz!
After week one, they find themselves already involved in damage control, not something anyone expected to happen to that party so quickly in the campaign. In the shot in the foot category, this week goes to the NDP with an assist to the CAW!
One imagines Jack Layton trying to figure out where his base just went to, with Hargrove tying his wagon to the Liberal machine. Strategic voting has come to the union movement, with the Hargrove solution being to vote NDP in those ridings where they are a shoo in, and Liberal in all others, rather than give the Conservatives the benefit of a split vote.
The thinking seems to be that in vote rich Ontario, the Liberals probably would be more inclined to help out the Auto workers during this time of major restructuring in the auto industry. Liberals dedicated as they are for industrial hand outs and corporate assistance in times of economic stress, probably fit more into the CAW’s plans than even the NDP could. Reality dictates that the NDP probably will never form a National gov’t, so the CAW may as well skip the preliminaries and just move on to the main event.
For Hargrove it’s probably a case of an investment in Martin today, would come back and help Hargrove’s own constituency later on in the new year, when the big cuts and belt tightening take effect. With inevitable threats to close even more plants to come, it probably makes political sense for the CAW to find a place at the front of the Liberal line, but it will be a hard sell for those true apostles of a workers paradise.
And while it may be a pragmatic approach to voting, it’s not being universally met with glee by some of Mr. Hargrove’s rank and file. The CAW in Saguenay (with a large Bloc Quebecois population) has condemned Hargrove’s plans suggesting that the union should stay out of politics. This would be a fine piece of theatre if only the bona fides of the Saguenay locals weren’t so tied to the sovereigntist movement of Quebec. In Quebec the NDP has never been able to crack the nationalist crowd’s core, members there prefer their brothers and sisters in the Bloc federally and the Parti Quebecois provincially. Imagine their horror at the national boss suggesting they support the Satan of all they abhor.
The Buzz from Buzz also hasn’t quite resonated with the NDP rank and file either, in fact they aren’t exactly adopting the theory of suitable second choice. In Vancouver Centre the NDP have purposely put in a candidate to topple Liberal MP Hedy Fry. Svend Robinson has been brought out of political exile (after his diamond ring fiasco) to stand for the NDP in the Vancouver riding, hoping to steal (sorry I couldn’t resist) enough of the Fry vote away to deny her a return to Ottawa.
Hargrove’s comments came at the end of the first week of campaigning and delivered a much welcomed push for the Martin campaign, while at the same time must have knocked some of the air out of Smilin’ Jack Laytons theme of the NDP on the rise. Who would have thought that the first shocking moment of the campaign would come at the expense of Jack Layton and the NDP. Layton surely must be asking aloud, Et tu Buzz!
After week one, they find themselves already involved in damage control, not something anyone expected to happen to that party so quickly in the campaign. In the shot in the foot category, this week goes to the NDP with an assist to the CAW!
Pictures of Podunk: Fourth Avenue West
Looking west from the Courthouse at McBride and 2nd Avenue West, the Anglican church and houses of Fourth Avenue West. Mount Hayes in the background dominates the view from the downtown area.
Friday, December 02, 2005
Uncle George on line two?
It was not off to a seamless start to the Tory campaign in Manitoba this week. The Conservatives are giving Manitoba residents a break from those annoying campaign phone calls, while they try to work out a few bugs.
It seems that when Conservative phone rooms started calling Manitobans, a glitch in the phone systems registered the calls as coming from an unknown number at the US Senate! It seems that the problems originate from the Canadian Call centre, which is making phone calls on behalf of the Conservative party.
Conservative staffers were quick to advise that all election calls are being made by Canadians, right here in Canada. There's no outsourcing in the Conservative phone campaign in any form. No American operators are standing by to make a call.
Still Manitobans may wish to listen closely next time a Conservative call comes in, maybe ask a few questions of the caller in order to be sure. Things like the name of the football team in Winnipeg, the former hockey team that moved to the States and of course a famous intersection in downtown Winnipeg, a wrong answer should give one cause to surrender any valuable Canadian information!
It seems that when Conservative phone rooms started calling Manitobans, a glitch in the phone systems registered the calls as coming from an unknown number at the US Senate! It seems that the problems originate from the Canadian Call centre, which is making phone calls on behalf of the Conservative party.
Conservative staffers were quick to advise that all election calls are being made by Canadians, right here in Canada. There's no outsourcing in the Conservative phone campaign in any form. No American operators are standing by to make a call.
Still Manitobans may wish to listen closely next time a Conservative call comes in, maybe ask a few questions of the caller in order to be sure. Things like the name of the football team in Winnipeg, the former hockey team that moved to the States and of course a famous intersection in downtown Winnipeg, a wrong answer should give one cause to surrender any valuable Canadian information!
They Like us, They really, really like uh, to ridicule us!
The Daily show took notes and no prisoners this week, as Jon Stewart noticed the Great White North is trudging in it's mukluks to the polls.
Stewart took five minutes out of a very busy schedule of mocking American officials to turn his gaze northwards. With a picture of Martin with the term Hosed super imposed on the screen, Canada leapt to the attention span of Americans all be it for a brief cameo appearance.
The show poked fun at that quaint American tradition of ignorance on all matters Canadian, including geography, Stewart describing our home and native land as a desolate no man's land taking up room at the top of the map.
Stewart's civic lessons for Americans was followed up by Stephen Colbert, who tackled the Canadian election on his Colbert Report. Colbert examined the start of what is expected to be a nasty Canadian election, by wondering how our polite ways might get in the way of politics as Americans might know it.
With a fifty five day campaign who knows, Canada may end up on the American radar screen once again. Considering the size of the audiences for the Daily Show and the Colbert report, Americans may never learn as much about Canada as they will before January 23rd.
Stewart took five minutes out of a very busy schedule of mocking American officials to turn his gaze northwards. With a picture of Martin with the term Hosed super imposed on the screen, Canada leapt to the attention span of Americans all be it for a brief cameo appearance.
The show poked fun at that quaint American tradition of ignorance on all matters Canadian, including geography, Stewart describing our home and native land as a desolate no man's land taking up room at the top of the map.
Stewart's civic lessons for Americans was followed up by Stephen Colbert, who tackled the Canadian election on his Colbert Report. Colbert examined the start of what is expected to be a nasty Canadian election, by wondering how our polite ways might get in the way of politics as Americans might know it.
With a fifty five day campaign who knows, Canada may end up on the American radar screen once again. Considering the size of the audiences for the Daily Show and the Colbert report, Americans may never learn as much about Canada as they will before January 23rd.
The Maple Leaf or nothing at all!
Hockey entered the Canadian election campaign on Thursday, as Bloc Quebecois leader, Gilles Duceppe floated a trial balloon to gain some notice in Quebec and rekindle an age old debate in Canada.
Duceppe while campaigning in the province stated he felt the time had come for a team from Quebec to compete on the International stage. His plan would be to bring back only those players from Quebec, to don a blue and white uniform of Team Quebec and take to the world stage to battle the Russians, Americans, Swedes and of course les autres the Canadians.
It's an issue that comes up from time to time in Canada, usually at times of stress between the province of Quebec and the rest of Canada, or as in this case when an the silly season of an election coincides with the hockey season.
Hockey Canada was quick off the mark to say the idea was a non starter, as Director Bob Nicholson said that his Team Canada included Quebec. Nicholson said that under current international hockey rules it was unlikely that Quebec would be allowed to send a separate entry to international events, unless they were an independent nation and form its own national hockey federation.
Nicholson went further and stated that in his long time experience with Hockey Canada, he had seen many hockey players from Quebec join the Canadian team in International adventures and wear that Canadian sweater with pride.
Vincent Lecavalier risked a character attack by the followers of Duceppe when he said he was one player that enjoyed playing for the Canadian team and didn't see anything on the horizon to change that situation. As Lecavalier put it, "I'm part of Team Canada and Canada as a whole, I'm proud to be Canadian".
An answer which Duceppe shrugged off as claiming everyone is entitled to his opinion.
Numerous NHL players, coaches and officials jumped to the defence of a Team Canada which included Quebeccers, all for one and one for all. Duceppe's dream team concept also got shot down by the IIHF, spokesman Syzmon Szemberg who said that a Team Quebec was a long shot.
As it turned out, Duceppe's sideshow grew wearisome for him as he found he was answering more questions about a mythical hockey team than about the present election campaign. He grew impatient with the reporters fixated on the hockey issue and not showing any interest in his other plans and ideas.
Kevin Lowe put things into proper perspective when he suggested that the politicians, stick to politics. Some of us suggest that the hockey people start working in politics, God knows things couldn't get much worse!
For the last word on le tempete du hockey, we turn to the Globe and Mail and a letter to the editor on the situation, for Duceppe it was a case of He Shoots, He Misses!
The above posting first appeared on my HockeyNation blog, for more items about hockey check things out!
Duceppe while campaigning in the province stated he felt the time had come for a team from Quebec to compete on the International stage. His plan would be to bring back only those players from Quebec, to don a blue and white uniform of Team Quebec and take to the world stage to battle the Russians, Americans, Swedes and of course les autres the Canadians.
It's an issue that comes up from time to time in Canada, usually at times of stress between the province of Quebec and the rest of Canada, or as in this case when an the silly season of an election coincides with the hockey season.
Hockey Canada was quick off the mark to say the idea was a non starter, as Director Bob Nicholson said that his Team Canada included Quebec. Nicholson said that under current international hockey rules it was unlikely that Quebec would be allowed to send a separate entry to international events, unless they were an independent nation and form its own national hockey federation.
Nicholson went further and stated that in his long time experience with Hockey Canada, he had seen many hockey players from Quebec join the Canadian team in International adventures and wear that Canadian sweater with pride.
Vincent Lecavalier risked a character attack by the followers of Duceppe when he said he was one player that enjoyed playing for the Canadian team and didn't see anything on the horizon to change that situation. As Lecavalier put it, "I'm part of Team Canada and Canada as a whole, I'm proud to be Canadian".
An answer which Duceppe shrugged off as claiming everyone is entitled to his opinion.
Numerous NHL players, coaches and officials jumped to the defence of a Team Canada which included Quebeccers, all for one and one for all. Duceppe's dream team concept also got shot down by the IIHF, spokesman Syzmon Szemberg who said that a Team Quebec was a long shot.
As it turned out, Duceppe's sideshow grew wearisome for him as he found he was answering more questions about a mythical hockey team than about the present election campaign. He grew impatient with the reporters fixated on the hockey issue and not showing any interest in his other plans and ideas.
Kevin Lowe put things into proper perspective when he suggested that the politicians, stick to politics. Some of us suggest that the hockey people start working in politics, God knows things couldn't get much worse!
For the last word on le tempete du hockey, we turn to the Globe and Mail and a letter to the editor on the situation, for Duceppe it was a case of He Shoots, He Misses!
The above posting first appeared on my HockeyNation blog, for more items about hockey check things out!
Pictures of Podunk: The Cruise Ship Terminal
Where Prince Rupert Welcomes the World! And the world leaves some loose change behind. The newly constructed Cruise Ship Terminal west of the Cow Bay tourist area. It is at its busiest from May to September.
Podunk-Below the Masthead (December)
A daily look at the BIG TYPE headline of the Podunkian Daily News. We'll list that day's BIG STORY, the one the Daily puts out in the big type just below it's masthead, for all Podunkians to ponder. There will be a link to this feature on the right hand side of the blog. Unfortunately there will be no link to the stories, as the Daily has recently stopped posting its stories in full to the net. Now you just end up at a dead end, asking you to go purchase your paper for (as Paul Harvey would say) the rest of the story.
December 30 "PARTIES VIE TO CLAIM RIDLEY BRAGGING RIGHTS" -- Picking up on the Ridley Island story of yesterday, where Conservative Leader Stephen Harper discussed the potential sale of the Terminal. The Conservatives go on record as being in favor of the transfer of the Terminal to the Port of Prince Rupert.
December 29, "RIDLEY TERMINALS IN ELECTION SPOTLIGHT"-- The Daily recounts Stephen Harper's day in Prince Rupert, his tours of the Grain Elevator and Coal Terminal and how a Conservative government would deal with the issues surrounding them.
December 28, "TORY LEADER IN TOWN TODAY" -- Providing little in the way of a timeline or when one could actually see the guy, the Daily provides news of Conservative leader Steven Harper's plans to tour Prince Rupert.
December 23 "RURAL B. C. STILL LAGS BEHIND" - A glimpse at the differences between the economic growth of the lower mainland and that of the rural areas of the Province.
December 22 "NEW B. C. CRUISE PORT 'WILL GROW INDUSTRY'"- An examination of the opening of a new cruise ship terminal in Campbell River and how it could impact on the Cruise Industry in BC and Prince Rupert.
December 21 "GAMING CRITICS PUT CARDS ON THE TABLE" - Local groups begin to express their concerns about the development of a Community Gambling Centre on the grounds of the old Royal Canadian Legion.
December 20 "BUSINESSES URGED TO HELP SHORE WORKERS" - A call from the UFAWU the union for local shoreworkers , asking for local business to hire a shoreworker this Christmas to help them get over the minimum requirement for Unemployment Insurance.
December 19 "MAN, 81, SAFE AFTER HOME IS HIT BY FIRE"-- One of Prince Rupert's oldest residences was nearly destroyed by a fire Sunday afternoon, forcing an 81 year old man and his dog to flee the flames. The heritage home, located in the 100 block of 9th Avenue East had fire deep seated in the roof area, which eventually destroyed most of the house.
December 16 "PULP MILL DECISION TO BE MADE IN CHINA"-- The seemingly never ending Skeena Cel story enters perhaps its end game as the file is handed off to the Chinese Government for a decision.
December 15 "WORK ON NEW MALL TO BEGIN IN THE SPRING"-- The folks at Royop offer up a timeline on development of the Big Box mall location on highway 16.
December 14 "TOURIST TRAIN TO GO OFFLINE NEXT SEASON"-- Two years of financial losses take their toll on the North Coast Explorer, as the tourist train suspends operations for 2006.
December 13 "CITY CLOSES BRIDGE OVER SAFETY FEARS"--Cow Bay Bridge closes to traffic on Wednesday, its pilings not capable of supporting heavy loads. How the broke city plans on providing repairs to it and other troublesome infrastructure.
December 12 "LOCAL RANGERS PLAY VITAL ROLE FOR ARMY"-- A story about the local ranger unit and their involvement in a military exercise.
December 9 "MP HOPEFULS ON CAMPAIGN TRAIL"-- Tracking the candidates for the three main parties in the Skeena Bulkley Valley.
December 8 "U. S. CONSUL GENERAL LUKENS SEES FUTURE OF COOPERATION"--A recap of the addresss by Lewis Lukens, the American Consul General's to the Prince Rupert Chamber of Commerce.
December 7 "SERVICE RECOGNIZED"-- A review of Monday night's council meeting and the recognition given to the two departing councilors, Jack Rudolph and Paul Kennedy.
December 6 "GAMING CENTRE PROPOSED"-- An examination of the plans for a gambling centre on the property of the old Legion Hall. Plans include, a bingo hall, slot machines, off track betting, video lottery terminals and a lounge for pay per view activities as well.
December 5 "LOCAL LIBERALS SELECT CANDIDATE"-- Reviewing the weekend selection of local banker Gordon Vincent-Stamp to carry the colours of the Liberals into battle in the Federal Election. Vincent-Stamp will take on the incumbent NDP MP Nathan Cullen and Conservative Mike Scott in the quest for the Skeena-Bulkley Valley Parliamentary seat.
December 2 "SPIRIT BEARS IN THE CITY"-- The Daily previews the upcoming Spirit Bears arts project, which features displays at the Crest Hotel and one sponsored by Scotiabank and on display at the Atlin Terminal.
December 1 "NWCC SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH CHINESE VOCATIONAL INSTITUTE"-- A review of the agreement between the two educational institutes and what it may mean in the way of future exchange programs and partnership opportunities.
December 30 "PARTIES VIE TO CLAIM RIDLEY BRAGGING RIGHTS" -- Picking up on the Ridley Island story of yesterday, where Conservative Leader Stephen Harper discussed the potential sale of the Terminal. The Conservatives go on record as being in favor of the transfer of the Terminal to the Port of Prince Rupert.
December 29, "RIDLEY TERMINALS IN ELECTION SPOTLIGHT"-- The Daily recounts Stephen Harper's day in Prince Rupert, his tours of the Grain Elevator and Coal Terminal and how a Conservative government would deal with the issues surrounding them.
December 28, "TORY LEADER IN TOWN TODAY" -- Providing little in the way of a timeline or when one could actually see the guy, the Daily provides news of Conservative leader Steven Harper's plans to tour Prince Rupert.
December 23 "RURAL B. C. STILL LAGS BEHIND" - A glimpse at the differences between the economic growth of the lower mainland and that of the rural areas of the Province.
December 22 "NEW B. C. CRUISE PORT 'WILL GROW INDUSTRY'"- An examination of the opening of a new cruise ship terminal in Campbell River and how it could impact on the Cruise Industry in BC and Prince Rupert.
December 21 "GAMING CRITICS PUT CARDS ON THE TABLE" - Local groups begin to express their concerns about the development of a Community Gambling Centre on the grounds of the old Royal Canadian Legion.
December 20 "BUSINESSES URGED TO HELP SHORE WORKERS" - A call from the UFAWU the union for local shoreworkers , asking for local business to hire a shoreworker this Christmas to help them get over the minimum requirement for Unemployment Insurance.
December 19 "MAN, 81, SAFE AFTER HOME IS HIT BY FIRE"-- One of Prince Rupert's oldest residences was nearly destroyed by a fire Sunday afternoon, forcing an 81 year old man and his dog to flee the flames. The heritage home, located in the 100 block of 9th Avenue East had fire deep seated in the roof area, which eventually destroyed most of the house.
December 16 "PULP MILL DECISION TO BE MADE IN CHINA"-- The seemingly never ending Skeena Cel story enters perhaps its end game as the file is handed off to the Chinese Government for a decision.
December 15 "WORK ON NEW MALL TO BEGIN IN THE SPRING"-- The folks at Royop offer up a timeline on development of the Big Box mall location on highway 16.
December 14 "TOURIST TRAIN TO GO OFFLINE NEXT SEASON"-- Two years of financial losses take their toll on the North Coast Explorer, as the tourist train suspends operations for 2006.
December 13 "CITY CLOSES BRIDGE OVER SAFETY FEARS"--Cow Bay Bridge closes to traffic on Wednesday, its pilings not capable of supporting heavy loads. How the broke city plans on providing repairs to it and other troublesome infrastructure.
December 12 "LOCAL RANGERS PLAY VITAL ROLE FOR ARMY"-- A story about the local ranger unit and their involvement in a military exercise.
December 9 "MP HOPEFULS ON CAMPAIGN TRAIL"-- Tracking the candidates for the three main parties in the Skeena Bulkley Valley.
December 8 "U. S. CONSUL GENERAL LUKENS SEES FUTURE OF COOPERATION"--A recap of the addresss by Lewis Lukens, the American Consul General's to the Prince Rupert Chamber of Commerce.
December 7 "SERVICE RECOGNIZED"-- A review of Monday night's council meeting and the recognition given to the two departing councilors, Jack Rudolph and Paul Kennedy.
December 6 "GAMING CENTRE PROPOSED"-- An examination of the plans for a gambling centre on the property of the old Legion Hall. Plans include, a bingo hall, slot machines, off track betting, video lottery terminals and a lounge for pay per view activities as well.
December 5 "LOCAL LIBERALS SELECT CANDIDATE"-- Reviewing the weekend selection of local banker Gordon Vincent-Stamp to carry the colours of the Liberals into battle in the Federal Election. Vincent-Stamp will take on the incumbent NDP MP Nathan Cullen and Conservative Mike Scott in the quest for the Skeena-Bulkley Valley Parliamentary seat.
December 2 "SPIRIT BEARS IN THE CITY"-- The Daily previews the upcoming Spirit Bears arts project, which features displays at the Crest Hotel and one sponsored by Scotiabank and on display at the Atlin Terminal.
December 1 "NWCC SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH CHINESE VOCATIONAL INSTITUTE"-- A review of the agreement between the two educational institutes and what it may mean in the way of future exchange programs and partnership opportunities.
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Martin Zero for Three on Pop Stars!
It’s a trifecta for Paul Martin as yet another rock star jumps up and slaps down our embattled rocking’ PM. Sir Paul McCartney is the latest to pile on as he criticizes the Prime Minister over the Canadian Seal Hunt. The National Post (sub required) reports that a letter was delivered to the Prime Ministers office on Wednesday, in it McCartney put the Prime Minister on notice over the contentious hunt.
The tone of McCartney’s letter was in the form of a suggestion, that unless Martin calls an end to the seal cull, then McCartney might just show up on an ice flow near you real soon. McCartney it was said is determined and prepared to bring much unwanted attention upon Canada, unless the hunt is brought to an end.
McCartney’s diatribe against Martin makes him number three in line, following in the footsteps of U2’s Bono, who only last week proclaimed that he was crushed and mystified by Martin and his inability to bring Canada to the 0.7 of GDP mark for foreign aid.
Martin’s problems with the musical class began at the time of the G8 summit in June, when Sir Bob Geldof took to microphone and stated that unless Martin was willing to make a commitment, he should just stay at home and not show up at the summit. Martin disregarded the advice, attended the summit and kept his cheque book close to his chest.
This was something that did not impress Sir Bob, who passed the torch on to Bono for his North American tour. Bono took advantage of his visit to Ottawa last week for a concert to once again, poke a stick at the recalcitrant PM.
All three European musicians seem to have set their sights on Martin, while for the most part ignoring other political hold outs such as George Bush, Tony Blair or Jacques Chirac. Which probably seems unfair to Martin, but makes perfect sense for the trio. The Canadian media seems overcome with the stars, reporting every word and gesture with glee. One has to get their respective messages out to the most amenable audience and the Canadian media awaits eagerly the next missive from the musicians.
One can imagine ole Paul, wandering the halls of 24 Sussex (or more likely an airline terminal)humming along to the words, "how long, how long must we sing this song".
Then again as Christmas grows close, music probably will not be on the top of the Martin wish list. It may be that silence, especially silence from the aging pop star crowd, that may be the gift that brings him the most pleasure this year.
The tone of McCartney’s letter was in the form of a suggestion, that unless Martin calls an end to the seal cull, then McCartney might just show up on an ice flow near you real soon. McCartney it was said is determined and prepared to bring much unwanted attention upon Canada, unless the hunt is brought to an end.
McCartney’s diatribe against Martin makes him number three in line, following in the footsteps of U2’s Bono, who only last week proclaimed that he was crushed and mystified by Martin and his inability to bring Canada to the 0.7 of GDP mark for foreign aid.
Martin’s problems with the musical class began at the time of the G8 summit in June, when Sir Bob Geldof took to microphone and stated that unless Martin was willing to make a commitment, he should just stay at home and not show up at the summit. Martin disregarded the advice, attended the summit and kept his cheque book close to his chest.
This was something that did not impress Sir Bob, who passed the torch on to Bono for his North American tour. Bono took advantage of his visit to Ottawa last week for a concert to once again, poke a stick at the recalcitrant PM.
All three European musicians seem to have set their sights on Martin, while for the most part ignoring other political hold outs such as George Bush, Tony Blair or Jacques Chirac. Which probably seems unfair to Martin, but makes perfect sense for the trio. The Canadian media seems overcome with the stars, reporting every word and gesture with glee. One has to get their respective messages out to the most amenable audience and the Canadian media awaits eagerly the next missive from the musicians.
One can imagine ole Paul, wandering the halls of 24 Sussex (or more likely an airline terminal)humming along to the words, "how long, how long must we sing this song".
Then again as Christmas grows close, music probably will not be on the top of the Martin wish list. It may be that silence, especially silence from the aging pop star crowd, that may be the gift that brings him the most pleasure this year.
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