Our archive of the daily findings from Prince Rupert's various media sources, from the Daily News, Northern View, CBC and CFTK News, we outline the main stories of the day for the month of April 2010.
April 30--The Epicurean fire dominates the news media of the city, Vanderzalm is coming to town and let the dance competition begin, some of the items of note from Friday's news files. (see post here)
April 29-- Somebody else wants to call Watson Island home but doesn't seem to want to pay to be there, Port Ed faces a slight tax increase and the Ride for Cancer once again will have some prince Rupert content, some of the items of note from Thursday's news rotation. (see post here)
April 28-- The people have a few questions for council, EI stats go up in Rupert and recreation issues become part of the ongoing debate at council, some of the items from the Wednesday news files. (see post here)
April 27-- The travel vaccination clinic returns to the city, questions arise over Regional District's budget requests and vandalism and violence in the down town area once again are brought to city council's attention, some of the items of the Tuesday news listings. (see post here)
April 26-- The Anti HST crusader will soon appear in Prince Rupert, Gary Coons continues to quiz BC Ferries on security of data concerns and City Council decides to wait another week before rendering a final approval to the budget, some of the items of interest in the Monday newsfiles. (see post here)
April 23-- Potential economic development in the Industrial park, more media salvos on Watson Island and the City hopes to hear our opinions of the budget at Monday night's council meeting, some of the items of the Friday news files. (see post here)
April 22-- The latest news from the port, Herb Pond is back on the job search and Mr. Cullen goes to Washington, some of the items of interest in our Thursday review. (see post here)
April 21-- A local woman reaches out to help her Philippine home town, Kitimat may yet see life at Eurocan and some optimistic numbers and plans from the Port, some of the items of the Wednesday news cycle. (see post here)
April 20-- Everybody is talking cruise season, tracking a cougar and no budgetary concerns over Watson Island spending at City Hall, some of the items of interest from the Tuesday news offerings. (see post here)
April 19-- Victims of Crime Awareness set to be recognized in the city, more wolf sightings causing concern and Cruise ship season is approaching for the north coast, some of the items from the Monday news cycle.
(see post here)
April 16-- Getting ready to ride for modern hospital equipment, remembering Emmalee Rose and a review of the Northern Transmission Line is underway, some of the items of interest from the Friday news cycle. (see post here)
April 15-- The city reveals its five year financial plan, Fish Farms are given the all clear by the province and some mayhem in the morning on Third Avenue West, some of the items of the news cycle for Thursday. (see post here)
April 14--Insights into China, funding for housing comes to Transition House and the City shifts the tax burden further towards the residential rate payers, some of the items of the news cycle for Wednesday.
(see post here)
April 13-- Avanti readies itself to meet the public, and the winner is ... the Daily News and the latest details on a string of attempted child abductions highlights the Tuesday news call. (see post here)
April 12-- A suspicious death is investigated, The Ministry of Forestries closes their Rupert branch and the city will host a convention in 2011, some of the items of interest from Monday's news files.
(see post here)
April 9-- The Extra Foods saga takes another step, the Community garden finally heads to a groundbreaking and Children's Theatre at the Lester Centre, some of the items of interest for Friday's news cycle. (see post here)
April 8-- The fight against the HST has its local launch, New mortgage rules leave some would be home owners confused and the Mayor outlines his recent efforts in the Community to Community sessions, some of the items from the Thursday newsfiles. (see post here)
April 7-- The City offers up a response to Bill Belsey over Sun Wave, Real Estate numbers are released for Prince Rupert for the first quarter of 2010 and Skeena Queen Charlotte Regional District gains approval from the province to run into deficit, some of the items of interest from the Wednesday news cycle.
(see post here)
April 6-- Lax Kw'alaams looks at some more Rupert real estate, seeking an audience with the Dragons and bookkeeping irregularities uncovered at Lax Kw'alaams Academy some of the items from the Tuesday news files. (see post here)
April 5-- A look at the rising cost of a visit with nature, Bob the Pug's fame expands and Nathan Cullen examines the economy, some of the items of the news cycle for Monday. (see post here)
April 1-- Moving pictures tell the electricity story for NTL, the Daily pulls a prank and if you're looking for an Easter Egg hunt the Northern View can steer you in the right direction, some of the items of the news cycle for april Fools Day, Thursday. (see post here)
Tuesday, April 06, 2010
Commander Vander Zalm takes to the bridge
And Like Nelson at Trafalgar, Bill Vander Zalm is ready for battle.
The one time Social Credit Premier who left office to less than glowing reviews, renews his political life in full force tonight as he leads the anti-HST forces into the fray with a public launch of his bid for a referndum on the provincial Liberal Government's plans to Harmonize taxation in BC with the Federal grab.
Commander Vander Zalm takes to Gordon Campbell's own backyard for his launch of the petition process which will require 10% of BC registered voters in each riding to sign the petition (in person) within 90 days of today, in order to move forward on the referendum process.
While the umbrella group that is against the HST is large, (respected Journalist Bill Tielman was one of the early organizers against the plan and offered up this review of the problems he sees in the tax.) It's Vander Zalm however, who seems to have become to public face of the protest movement, a situation that possibly leaves his fellow protestors just a little nervous, especially considering his past record in BC politics and the animosity that at one time the mention of his name would bring.
Vander Zalm of late has been criss crossing across the province on the rubber chicken luncheon circuit selling the merits of his desire to stop the Liberal's short. As can be seen in this effort from Terrace of a month ago.
Locally the debate on the issues has been engaged recently on the forum board of hackingthemainframe, where proponents of the anti HST fight have offered up their side of the story.
And while we understand the desire to stop the ever increasing grab of cash, we wonder how much support this bid will have overall when the end of the process has arrived.
British Columbian's have long expressed a desire for quality health care, better school funding, improvement on social program delivery and on and on goes the wish list, all of which requires funding to remain constant, let alone expand.The Harmonization plan seems to have been put in forward in kind of a desperate measure by the BC Liberal's to try and inject more cash into the provinces government financials, in effect suggesting that without the added revenue many of our long held beliefs may require a second look.
Many might remind the Premier and his government that these are problems of their own making.The fact that the Liberals have little credibility of late certainly doesn't help their cause of defence, owing to any number of decisions which have given British Columbians cause to wonder what direction the province is heading.
Many of course would prefer that the government readdress its priorities when it comes to divvying up the cash that they already collect, something that this government has for the most part shown no inclination to try and address.
But still, during this ninety day run up to the deadline, we wonder how receptive to the protest the general public will be if the basic concept outlined by the Liberals is that without the revenue, the province faces major decisions on the key aspects of service delivery.
It clearly is a tax grab, but without it at this time, one wonders what the next step will be by the Campbell government and whether our current state of finances and expectations can be met without the added revenue.
However for those who have trouble with the prospect of a harmonized tax the game is on , and as the old proverb goes, the enemy of my enemy is my friend.
Tonight at least, all in the protest movement are united against the Liberal's plans, what remains to be seen is whether that momentum carries forward over the next 90 days, and more importantly if the population, or at least 10 percent of it, feel the same as those that have taken to the song books.
Mr. Vander Zalm first outlined his quest to lead the opposition to the proposed tax back in September..
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The Premier offered up his defence in August
So here we are, the Battle begins today, the canvassers preparing to fan out and take their message to the people.
Knocking on doors, posting on Facebook and Twitter and spreading the word through their website fighthst.com (which occassionally doesn't seem to want to co-operate with knowledge seekers).
It promises to be three months of some pretty fine political theatre, though we wonder if when all is said and done, it will have proven to be much of a fight when July comes around.
CTVBC News-- Anti-HST forces have 90 days to gather B.C. votes
Vancouver Province-- Vander Zalm just might be Campbell's nemesis
CBC News-- HST fight makes allies of B.C. political foes
Globe and Mail-- Anti-HST petition launched
Monday, April 05, 2010
Michael Curnes move to Northern Health just one of a number of departures from the City in March
The Community newsletter for March, recounts many of Mr. Curnes ambitious endeavours during his time of employ at the Civic Centre, a checklist of sorts of the efforts he put forward not only to the position of Recreation Director but to other aspects of community life as well.
The March letter features a number of other high profile departures to review, with Kirby and Patricia Holkestad both retiring from civic employment and a review of Bob Thompson's retirement in mid March also highlighted in this months edition.
All were also saluted in the Mayor's Message section as Mayor Jack Mussallem praised the quartet for their contributions to the city over their years of employment.
You can catch up on all the retirements from the website here.
Or review them at your leisure below:
Bob Thompson
The CITY OF PRINCE RUPERT is grateful to Robert/Bob Thompson and the 35 years he dedicated to keeping our City working, safe and ever-modernizing. Bob Thompson retired on Friday, March 19, 2010 and begins the new phase of his life which in the next few months will include a cruise with his wife from London to Finland to Russia and back. From every employee who has worked with Bob for the past three and a half decades and from every resident that has benefitted from the Community this man has dedicated his professional life to improving, BON VOYAGE, Bob.
Excerpts from Bob's Resume: CITY OF PRINCE RUPERT General Manager, Engineering & Public Works (1993 to Present) This is a Department Head position, part of the Senior Management Team, responsible for the Engineering and Public Works Departments; Council Advisor on Infrastructure. CITY OF PRINCE RUPERT Manager of Operations (1987-1993) Responsible for O&M of Roads, Water, Wastewater, Solid Waste Collection & Disposal, Parks, Cemetery, Golf Course, Mechanics’ Shop, Administrative, and HR/Labour Relations functions for the Public Works Department (80 – 100 employees).
Before Bob entered city management, he did work in Prince Rupert as a member of the Union ranks from 1974 to 1976 and then from 1979 to 1987. During the first stint, he worked as a labourer in the Roads and Sewer Sections of Public Works and occasionally as a garbage collector before finally landing a position as a rod & chainman on the Engineering Survey Crew. This turned Bob onto engineering and the City job allowed him to save the money he needed to go back to Technical School.
After returning from school, Bob's next tour of duty started in 1979 when he moved back to the City from Ottawa for what he thought would be a year at most before moving to somewhere else in BC. He worked as an Instrumentman on the survey crew, then a Instrumentman/draftsman and relief for the timekeeper at City Stores.
Bob says he was lucky enough to work on a number of major projects and remembers one day being asked to take over construction supervision of the RV Park in the morning and the surveying for the civil work for the new Pool in the same afternoon.
Bob was also active in CUPE 105 as an executive member and member of a number of bargaining committees. In later years, probably the project Bob enjoyed the most was the arena rebuild where they went right done to below sub-grade and rebuilt it from scratch. "I was a long ways from home (Montreal) when I started here at the age of 21, almost 36 years ago but I would have to say that the City of Prince Rupert has treated me extremely well over the years and, best of all, I had a lot of fun with the people here along the way. I suppose that in the end was a big part of why I stayed." --Robert (Bob) Thompson
Patricia and Kirby Holkestad
Staff and Managers from both the City and CityWest turned out to salute the career achievements of this dynamic pair, this month. While Kirby, who started in 1978 has worked for CityWest for 32 years, Pat, who started with City Telephone and worked there for 12 years, made a move to the City's Recreation Department in 1996 where she has worked the past 14 years.
Michael Curnes
Speaking of Contributions...the City Wishes Michael Curnes Well in His New Role at Northern Health The departure of Michael Curnes from his position as Recreation Director at the City of Prince Rupert will be particularly difficult to accommodate. Michael has given his best there with fantastic results. Whether it be a long-awaited zamboni snow pit or the more obvious projects like the new outdoor Green Gym, Mr. Curnes has worked hard to keep the recreation department current. His bleacher upgrade in the gym at the Jim Ciccone Civic Centre was a gutsy move given the economic times but it certainly secured our top sporting event, the All-Native Basketball tournament, a better home.
Organizations must be driven by people with purpose. Michael did that for Recreation. But he also had an additional mandate that included social issues and all the things he did “off the side of his desk”. The Green Task Force and the Measuring Up Program are but two of the many groups he worked with “after hours”. Having a special interest in the Arts, Michael contributed there as well. “Engaged in the community” is an understatement. Luckily for Prince Rupert, Mr. Curnes has chosen to stay with local Public Service. While with the City, he pushed not just for change for change sake but to improve the lives of the people here. You can bet that won’t change.
Podunk Below the Masthead (Monday, April 5, 2010)
A look at the rising cost of a visit with nature, Bob the Pug's fame expands and Nathan Cullen examines the economy, some of the items of the news cycle for Monday.
Daily News, Front page, headline story
TRANSLATING THE PROVINCIAL FEE INCREASE AT THE LOCAL LEVEL -- The Daily outlines the recent moves of the Provincial Government to increase fees to the provinces provincial parks, (first reviewed on the blog on March 20) focusing much of their item on the impact on some of the parks in the local area.
Bob the Pug's fame continues to capture the imagination of media, as the Daily News joins the likes of the Vancouver Sun, Victoria Times Colonist and the CBC which all provided details of Bob's encounter with a wolf on Alpine Drive, we featured all the Big City media dispatches on Bob's new found fame on the blog on Friday.
Nathan Cullen's economic report on the Skeena-Bulkley Valley riding was released last week, with the local NDP MP providing his findings on what are the main economic concerns of local residents. The Northern View had the first look at the report posted to their website last Thursday.
The sports section features a look at local resident Kale Burns travels as he works his way through Midget Hockey playing in the Central Interior.
(Daily News Archives for Monday, April 5, 2010 when posted to Daily News website )
The Northern View
No new items were posted to the Northern View Website for April 5
CFTK TV 7 News
No new items were posted to the CFTK TV 7 News website for April 5
CBC News British Columbia, Daybreak North
No new items were posted to the CBC website for Monday, Daybreak North is only posting selected items on their website now.
The most recently posted items for this week can be found on the weekly archive for Daybreak North click here
Daily News Front page headline story
Translating the Provincial Fee Increase at the Local Level
Item to be provided upon posting to Daily News website
Daily News, Front page, headline story
TRANSLATING THE PROVINCIAL FEE INCREASE AT THE LOCAL LEVEL -- The Daily outlines the recent moves of the Provincial Government to increase fees to the provinces provincial parks, (first reviewed on the blog on March 20) focusing much of their item on the impact on some of the parks in the local area.
Bob the Pug's fame continues to capture the imagination of media, as the Daily News joins the likes of the Vancouver Sun, Victoria Times Colonist and the CBC which all provided details of Bob's encounter with a wolf on Alpine Drive, we featured all the Big City media dispatches on Bob's new found fame on the blog on Friday.
Nathan Cullen's economic report on the Skeena-Bulkley Valley riding was released last week, with the local NDP MP providing his findings on what are the main economic concerns of local residents. The Northern View had the first look at the report posted to their website last Thursday.
The sports section features a look at local resident Kale Burns travels as he works his way through Midget Hockey playing in the Central Interior.
(Daily News Archives for Monday, April 5, 2010 when posted to Daily News website )
The Northern View
No new items were posted to the Northern View Website for April 5
CFTK TV 7 News
No new items were posted to the CFTK TV 7 News website for April 5
CBC News British Columbia, Daybreak North
No new items were posted to the CBC website for Monday, Daybreak North is only posting selected items on their website now.
The most recently posted items for this week can be found on the weekly archive for Daybreak North click here
Daily News Front page headline story
Translating the Provincial Fee Increase at the Local Level
Item to be provided upon posting to Daily News website
It's the economy Monday, March 5, 2010)
Ready for par, The Greek citizens have their own bailout plans and delaying a financial High Noon with China, some of the itmes of interest for Monday.
Globe and Mail-- As loonie nears parity, firms scramble to hedge bets
Globe and Mail-- Reality, and a baseball bat, put a dent in iPad hype
Globe and Mail-- Why the Canadian dollar is expected to reach parity any day now
National Post-- Solving the mystery of rising oil prices
National Post-- Loonie's march towards parity reflects economy's strength
National Post-- Teachers continues shopping spree with Exal buy
New York Times-- Strong Ties With India Goal of Trip by Geithner
New York Times-- Financial Crisis Inquiry Wrestles With Setbacks
New York Times-- Making Financial Reform Fool-Resistant
USA Today-- Water bills go up in down economy as usage drops
USA Today-- Toyota faces record $16.4M fine in gas pedal recall
Guardian UK online-- Rescuing economics from its own crisis
Guardian UK online-- Unilever boss slams short-term profit mentality
Guardian UK online-- Conservatives attempt to water down bribery bill under CBI pressure
Times online UK-- Germany must save less and consume more
Times online UK-- George Soros backs Oxford to refresh economics
Telegraph online UK-- Energy security is not a luxury but a necessity in a dangerous world
Telegraph online UK-- Greek banks hit by wealthy citizens moving their money offshore
Telegraph online UK-- IMF targets banks with 'excess profits tax'
Melbourne Herald Sun-- Rio employees to appeal jailing
Melbourne Herald Sun-- Funtastic sues over Bratz dolls
Sydney Daily Telegraph-- 'Boycott Australian iron ore' - China
People's Daily-- China takes gradual approach to financial liberalization
People's Daily-- US delays yuan report "to prevent showdown"
China Daily-- Chinese graduates not well enough prepared for work: survey
China Daily-- Collapse predicted, welcomed as housing prices continue to skyrocket
Times of India-- India Inc's M&As touch $19bn in 2010
Times of India-- 'India is an interesting place for doing business'
Globe and Mail-- As loonie nears parity, firms scramble to hedge bets
Globe and Mail-- Reality, and a baseball bat, put a dent in iPad hype
Globe and Mail-- Why the Canadian dollar is expected to reach parity any day now
National Post-- Solving the mystery of rising oil prices
National Post-- Loonie's march towards parity reflects economy's strength
National Post-- Teachers continues shopping spree with Exal buy
New York Times-- Strong Ties With India Goal of Trip by Geithner
New York Times-- Financial Crisis Inquiry Wrestles With Setbacks
New York Times-- Making Financial Reform Fool-Resistant
USA Today-- Water bills go up in down economy as usage drops
USA Today-- Toyota faces record $16.4M fine in gas pedal recall
Guardian UK online-- Rescuing economics from its own crisis
Guardian UK online-- Unilever boss slams short-term profit mentality
Guardian UK online-- Conservatives attempt to water down bribery bill under CBI pressure
Times online UK-- Germany must save less and consume more
Times online UK-- George Soros backs Oxford to refresh economics
Telegraph online UK-- Energy security is not a luxury but a necessity in a dangerous world
Telegraph online UK-- Greek banks hit by wealthy citizens moving their money offshore
Telegraph online UK-- IMF targets banks with 'excess profits tax'
Melbourne Herald Sun-- Rio employees to appeal jailing
Melbourne Herald Sun-- Funtastic sues over Bratz dolls
Sydney Daily Telegraph-- 'Boycott Australian iron ore' - China
People's Daily-- China takes gradual approach to financial liberalization
People's Daily-- US delays yuan report "to prevent showdown"
China Daily-- Chinese graduates not well enough prepared for work: survey
China Daily-- Collapse predicted, welcomed as housing prices continue to skyrocket
Times of India-- India Inc's M&As touch $19bn in 2010
Times of India-- 'India is an interesting place for doing business'
Sunday, April 04, 2010
It's the economy (Weekend Edition April 2, 3 and 4, 2010)
Rural Canadians feeling shortchanged on broadband access, Hawaiians take their money ashore and ripping out their imported drywall, some of the items of interest from the weekend.
Globe and Mail-- Yuan needs to respond to market forces: White House
Globe and Mail-- Google makes fifth acquisition of year
Globe and Mail-- Canada's digital divide
National Post-- Canada becoming odd man out on bank tax
National Post-- State gambling ban doesn't stop Hawaiians
National Post-- Danger for spend-happy clients
New York Times-- Greenspan Cites Economic ‘Momentum’
New York Times-- Contesting Jobless Claims Becomes a Boom Industry
New York Times-- Start-Ups, Not Bailouts
USA Today-- Early Apple iPad sales estimates top predictions
USA Today-- Homes with Chinese drywall should be gutted, feds say
USA Today-- French workers threaten to blow up closing factory
Guardian UK online-- Foreign retailers are gearing up to conquer Britain's high streets
Guardian UK online-- Half a million houses are lying empty, Guardian research shows
Guardian UK online-- US tycoon Wilbur Ross ready to back Richard Branson's bid for Royal Bank of Scotland's assets with £500m
Times on line-- Election fever sparks a race to the bottom
Times on line-- London hotel to equip concierges with iPads
Telegraph online UK-- Deflation on the prowl as Bernanke shuts down his printing press
Telegraph online UK-- Mining groups fear backlash in South Africa
Telegraph online UK-- Rebounding Celtic tiger offers UK harsh lessons in demolishing debt
Melbourne Herald Sun-- IATA call for fees to be curbed at Australia's major airports
Melbourne Herald Sun-- Family First senator Steve Fielding gets the message on Telstra
Sydney Daily Telegraph-- Lack of women in London banks contributed to crisis, lawmakers say
People's Daily-- Construction to fuel growth in Cangzhou's coastal region
People's Daily-- China mulls expanding cross-border yuan settlement
China Daily-- US delays yuan ruling ahead of Hu visit
China Daily-- Collapse predicted as housing prices continue to soar
Times of India-- India market soars for business jet makers
Times of India-- US has huge stake in closer ties with India: Timothy Geithner
Globe and Mail-- Yuan needs to respond to market forces: White House
Globe and Mail-- Google makes fifth acquisition of year
Globe and Mail-- Canada's digital divide
National Post-- Canada becoming odd man out on bank tax
National Post-- State gambling ban doesn't stop Hawaiians
National Post-- Danger for spend-happy clients
New York Times-- Greenspan Cites Economic ‘Momentum’
New York Times-- Contesting Jobless Claims Becomes a Boom Industry
New York Times-- Start-Ups, Not Bailouts
USA Today-- Early Apple iPad sales estimates top predictions
USA Today-- Homes with Chinese drywall should be gutted, feds say
USA Today-- French workers threaten to blow up closing factory
Guardian UK online-- Foreign retailers are gearing up to conquer Britain's high streets
Guardian UK online-- Half a million houses are lying empty, Guardian research shows
Guardian UK online-- US tycoon Wilbur Ross ready to back Richard Branson's bid for Royal Bank of Scotland's assets with £500m
Times on line-- Election fever sparks a race to the bottom
Times on line-- London hotel to equip concierges with iPads
Telegraph online UK-- Deflation on the prowl as Bernanke shuts down his printing press
Telegraph online UK-- Mining groups fear backlash in South Africa
Telegraph online UK-- Rebounding Celtic tiger offers UK harsh lessons in demolishing debt
Melbourne Herald Sun-- IATA call for fees to be curbed at Australia's major airports
Melbourne Herald Sun-- Family First senator Steve Fielding gets the message on Telstra
Sydney Daily Telegraph-- Lack of women in London banks contributed to crisis, lawmakers say
People's Daily-- Construction to fuel growth in Cangzhou's coastal region
People's Daily-- China mulls expanding cross-border yuan settlement
China Daily-- US delays yuan ruling ahead of Hu visit
China Daily-- Collapse predicted as housing prices continue to soar
Times of India-- India market soars for business jet makers
Times of India-- US has huge stake in closer ties with India: Timothy Geithner
Podunkian Brunch, Sunday, April 4, 2010
Much like we used to enjoy sitting down with the Sunday paper for a good afternoon of reading (before the cost of the paper began to rival instalments on a car loan) we hope to find topics that give you cause for thought, some information or even a chuckle or two, maybe even all three, who knows.
We'll endeavour to make it a regular Sunday item on the blog, hopefully posted before the early hours turn into the mid afternoon. If nothing else it will offer up some suggestions for some lazy Sunday websurfing for those that have time on their hands, but no particular direction to go.
We found a new website this week (well new to us, it apparently has been around awhile), True/Slant a compendium of articles from a wide variety of sources which offers up an eclectic bit of reading from well known journalists to unknown bloggers suddenly tossed into the firepit of fame.
Of interest from the True/Slant portal we found MattTaibbi, who writes for Rolling Stone, he offers up an opinion piece on the recent troubles of the Catholic church, a review of developments that should prove to be just a little bit controversial.
How bad are things on Parliament Hill these day? So bad, that apparently high school teachers won't bring their students into the gallery at the House of Commons anymore owing to the bad behaviour of those supposedly working on our behalf. In the Walrus this month, Mark Kingwell looks at the growing Cro-Magnon like behaviour that is changing the nature of debate not only on the Hill, but in the practice of politics across Canada.
Last week we took a look at the events on Ann Coulter's tour of the Great White North, highlighted by Ms. Coulter's cancelled appearance at the University of Ottawa. Bill Tielman of the Tyee, in his piece he doesn't see the quashing of freedom of speech that many others did during that time, but instead sees a cleverly orchestrated campaign by Coulter and her Canadian tour organizer Ezra Levant. Tielman reviews the timeline and offers up a different interpretation of the weeks events.
The Daily Beast directed us to a website called Popeater, which features that most Canadian of activities the good old hockey game, where Maggie Coughlan takes a look at the growing trend of hockey players taking up their social time with some of pop culture's rising princesses. You just never know who might be in the seat beside you at that next hockey game.
Saturday was iPad launch day in the USA, an event which saw no shortage of Canadians line up for ours to cross the border and in some cases seek out their own personal version of the newest toy on the market. The iPad which won't arrive in Canada until later in the month, was given the full review by CNet, which featured coverage of the day one madness as well as a review of the product itself.
Thursday was April Fools and for those that had a bit of trouble keeping up with all the mischief, the Huffington Post does it's best to keep the running tab of the best of the foolery for 2010.
And speaking of April Fools, the Onion where everyday it seems is April Fools, offers up a couple of beauts for baseball fans, as they explain the retro look at Fenway Park for the Red Sox and the bored inclinations of Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig.
If you're looking for a movie to wrap up the weekend with, Michael Moore's Capitalism: A Love Story is out on the video circuit (stores, download sites etc). Always entertaining, thought provoking and annoying to the powers that be, Moore takes on the current financial stresses of the day with some astounding revelations that will leave you shaking your head by the end of the film.
The trailer outlines some of the snapshots of the documentary review of Capitalism.
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From our Podcast directory we feature a Sunday favourite, Rex Murphy with Cross country check up, the two hour open line exchange of ideas between Canadians on the issues of the day. Available for download to your iPod or other personal entertainment player, Checkup this Sunday will discuss the future of Canada's involvement in Afghanistan. If you can't listen in to the debate at 1 pm BC Time on your local CBC outlet, the podcast will be available for download later in the day.
And to wrap up this first edition of our Brunch a little music. Blue Rodeo continues on as one of Canada's top touring acts, still taking to the stage after all these years, currently they're supporting their latest album Things we Left Behind, from that session here's a sample of the sound today, with Arizona Dust
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Saturday, April 03, 2010
Googles of April 2010
From the Podunkian inbox to an archive on the blog, from April, here are the items of note we found with the simple mention of Prince Rupert.
April 30-- RCMP investigating fire in downtown Prince Rupert as an arson
April 30-- Prince Rupert firefighters battle early morning blaze
April 30-- RCMP investigating fire in downtown Prince Rupert as an arson
April 30-- Love of the game culminates in Hall
April 28-- Workplace safety message hits home
April 28-- Work place safety message resonating
April 28-- City council discusses the role and management of local recreation complex
April 27-- Local featured in employment success book
April 27-- BC Annual gets underway Sunday
April 27-- Travel vaccine clinic opening in May
April 27-- Details are important in understanding visitor experience
April 27-- Retailer, city council discuss 'violence and vandalism' in downtown Prince Rupert
April 27-- Prince Rupert Continues To Report Robust Growth
April 26-- New Senior Housing for Prince Rupert
April 26-- Prince Rupert Budget Deferred
April 25-- Northern Expedition sailings cancelled
April 23-- 10 ways to see, taste and feel Canada
April 23-- Sun Wave, Prince Rupert Mayor talk Watson Island sale, litigation and possible bankruptcy
April 22-- Book promotes employment triumphs
April 22-- Canada: Prince Rupert Port reveals the vision for expansion
April 21-- 582 murdered or missing aboriginal women and girls in Canada: report
April 21-- Traffic volumes continue to grow as Prince Rupert Port Authority unveils economic impact analysis
April 21-- Port to involve ombudsman on Ferries issue
April 20-- Drugs, disturbances and theft among RCMP calls for service
April 20-- Want economic benefits? Consider Coho's value
April 20-- A sea of Pink
April 20-- City increasing fees and taxes in budget
April 20-- Minor hockey hands out awards
April 20-- Nurse riding to support operating room
April 17-- 2010 Cruise Season around the corner
April 17-- Prince Rupert Teen Drowned
April 16-- Provincial reply on court administrator not reassuring
April 16-- Northern B.C. readies for record roadbuilding season
April 15-- Prince Rupert RCMP Not Releasing Cause of Teen's Death
April 15-- Prince Rupert RCMP probe reported abduction attempts
April 14-- Three attempted child abductions in Prince Rupert
April 14-- No regional district meetings here
April 14-- Coal companies seek to run Ridley Terminals
April 14-- Cruise control
April 14-- Dock on B.C. north coast home to new ferry, government marine base
April 13-- Northwest Liberals holding planning conference in Rupert
April 13-- Over 200 service calls
April 13-- Reviewing the basics by answering student questions
April 13-- Rupert teams dominate annual tournament
April 13-- Port Authority getting set for the start of cruise season
April 13-- Prince Rupert RCMP seeking public's assistance following attempted child abduction
April 13-- Forest cuts in city and Alexis Creek
April 13-- Foul play not ruled out in death of teen found partly submerged in water
April 13-- Body found at Prince Rupert waterfront identified as Nisga'a teen
April 13-- Police identify teen found dead on Prince Rupert waterfront
April 12-- City Approves Development Permit
April 12-- Prince Rupert to host convention in 2011
April 12-- Police identify 16-year-old girl found dead on Prince Rupert waterfront
April 12-- Teen death in Prince Rupert ‘suspicious’
April 12-- Rupert Residents Reminded to Watch out for Wolves
April 12-- Job cuts come to forest, energy ministries
April 12-- Cruise ship season starts soon
April 12-- RCMP investigate girl's death
April 11-- RCMP investigate death of 16-year-old girl in Prince Rupert
April 11-- Police in Prince Rupert, B.C., investigate teen death
April 11-- Prince Rupert girl’s body was partially submerged
April 11-- Body Of 16 year Old Found In Prince Rupert
April 10-- Prince Rupert Expecting Cruise Business to be Steady As She Goes
April 8-- Pugs face dangers in the great outdoors
April 7-- Going wild for grizzlies in remote B.C. park
April 7-- Prince Rupert real estate numbers looking positive in first quarter
April 7-- Charge of uttering a death threat recommended
April 6-- Regional leaders meet at forum
April 6-- Drugs seized, impaired driving and assault among calls
April 6-- B.C. Forest Ministry strengthens ties to Asia
April 6-- Navy Turns 100
April 6-- Welding Equipment Stolen
April 6-- Former bookkeeper accused of stealing money from First Nations school
April 6-- Former B.C. school bookkeeper charged with fraud
April 1-- Plucky Prince Rupert pug survives wolf attack
April 1-- Weekend of Easter fun planned for Prince Rupert
April 1-- MP releases regional economic forum report
April 1-- B.C. pug's pudginess thwarts wolf
April 1-- Pug survives Prince Rupert wolf attack
April 30-- RCMP investigating fire in downtown Prince Rupert as an arson
April 30-- Prince Rupert firefighters battle early morning blaze
April 30-- RCMP investigating fire in downtown Prince Rupert as an arson
April 30-- Love of the game culminates in Hall
April 28-- Workplace safety message hits home
April 28-- Work place safety message resonating
April 28-- City council discusses the role and management of local recreation complex
April 27-- Local featured in employment success book
April 27-- BC Annual gets underway Sunday
April 27-- Travel vaccine clinic opening in May
April 27-- Details are important in understanding visitor experience
April 27-- Retailer, city council discuss 'violence and vandalism' in downtown Prince Rupert
April 27-- Prince Rupert Continues To Report Robust Growth
April 26-- New Senior Housing for Prince Rupert
April 26-- Prince Rupert Budget Deferred
April 25-- Northern Expedition sailings cancelled
April 23-- 10 ways to see, taste and feel Canada
April 23-- Sun Wave, Prince Rupert Mayor talk Watson Island sale, litigation and possible bankruptcy
April 22-- Book promotes employment triumphs
April 22-- Canada: Prince Rupert Port reveals the vision for expansion
April 21-- 582 murdered or missing aboriginal women and girls in Canada: report
April 21-- Traffic volumes continue to grow as Prince Rupert Port Authority unveils economic impact analysis
April 21-- Port to involve ombudsman on Ferries issue
April 20-- Drugs, disturbances and theft among RCMP calls for service
April 20-- Want economic benefits? Consider Coho's value
April 20-- A sea of Pink
April 20-- City increasing fees and taxes in budget
April 20-- Minor hockey hands out awards
April 20-- Nurse riding to support operating room
April 17-- 2010 Cruise Season around the corner
April 17-- Prince Rupert Teen Drowned
April 16-- Provincial reply on court administrator not reassuring
April 16-- Northern B.C. readies for record roadbuilding season
April 15-- Prince Rupert RCMP Not Releasing Cause of Teen's Death
April 15-- Prince Rupert RCMP probe reported abduction attempts
April 14-- Three attempted child abductions in Prince Rupert
April 14-- No regional district meetings here
April 14-- Coal companies seek to run Ridley Terminals
April 14-- Cruise control
April 14-- Dock on B.C. north coast home to new ferry, government marine base
April 13-- Northwest Liberals holding planning conference in Rupert
April 13-- Over 200 service calls
April 13-- Reviewing the basics by answering student questions
April 13-- Rupert teams dominate annual tournament
April 13-- Port Authority getting set for the start of cruise season
April 13-- Prince Rupert RCMP seeking public's assistance following attempted child abduction
April 13-- Forest cuts in city and Alexis Creek
April 13-- Foul play not ruled out in death of teen found partly submerged in water
April 13-- Body found at Prince Rupert waterfront identified as Nisga'a teen
April 13-- Police identify teen found dead on Prince Rupert waterfront
April 12-- City Approves Development Permit
April 12-- Prince Rupert to host convention in 2011
April 12-- Police identify 16-year-old girl found dead on Prince Rupert waterfront
April 12-- Teen death in Prince Rupert ‘suspicious’
April 12-- Rupert Residents Reminded to Watch out for Wolves
April 12-- Job cuts come to forest, energy ministries
April 12-- Cruise ship season starts soon
April 12-- RCMP investigate girl's death
April 11-- RCMP investigate death of 16-year-old girl in Prince Rupert
April 11-- Police in Prince Rupert, B.C., investigate teen death
April 11-- Prince Rupert girl’s body was partially submerged
April 11-- Body Of 16 year Old Found In Prince Rupert
April 10-- Prince Rupert Expecting Cruise Business to be Steady As She Goes
April 8-- Pugs face dangers in the great outdoors
April 7-- Going wild for grizzlies in remote B.C. park
April 7-- Prince Rupert real estate numbers looking positive in first quarter
April 7-- Charge of uttering a death threat recommended
April 6-- Regional leaders meet at forum
April 6-- Drugs seized, impaired driving and assault among calls
April 6-- B.C. Forest Ministry strengthens ties to Asia
April 6-- Navy Turns 100
April 6-- Welding Equipment Stolen
April 6-- Former bookkeeper accused of stealing money from First Nations school
April 6-- Former B.C. school bookkeeper charged with fraud
April 1-- Plucky Prince Rupert pug survives wolf attack
April 1-- Weekend of Easter fun planned for Prince Rupert
April 1-- MP releases regional economic forum report
April 1-- B.C. pug's pudginess thwarts wolf
April 1-- Pug survives Prince Rupert wolf attack
Alpine Residents and the battle for Bob the Wonder Pug!
Every dog has his day and for a Prince Rupert pug, Thursday apparently was that day, as April Fools Day (always a day that can leave one a skeptic) gave the internet news aggregators cause to recount tales of Bob the Wonder Pug and his near death encounter with a Prince Rupert wolf sometime over the last few days.
From the Vancouver Sun to the CBC every step of the drama was recounted, from neighbours attempting to rescue the dog from the jowls of the wolf, to his eventual safe retrieval and removal from the dining list of the wolf's evening plans.The events that played out on the west side brought Alpine Drive residents together in a bid to keep Bob from the clutches and digestive system of the wolf with ill intentions.
What was the key to Bob's salvation you might ask?
Portliness, as it seems that his current weight level proved to be too much of a bite for the wolf to attempt, slowing down the predator/prey time line and resulting the eventual surrender of his prey in order to slink off into the woods to revisit the whole meal planning agenda.
Considering the current state of Bob's celebrity, perhaps an agent might be of interest to his story, we see a series of novels, movie of the week and maybe even a tv show in the future but no dinner theatre, especially if Bob is the object of dinner and not the subject of it.
Vancouver Sun-- Pug survives Prince Rupert wolf attack
CBC-- B.C. pug's pudginess thwarts wolf
Victoria Times Colonist-- Plucky Prince Rupert pug survives wolf attack
Friday, April 02, 2010
Podunk Below the Masthead (Thursday, April 1, 2010)
Moving pictures tell the electricity story for NTL, the Daily pulls a prank and if you're looking for an Easter Egg hunt the Northern View can steer you in the right direction, some of the items of the news cycle for april Fools Day, Thursday.
Daily News, front page, headline story
NTL PROMOTING PROJECT TO SHAREHOLDERS THROUGH YOUTUBE-- Some background on the debut of the Northern Transmission Line's viral video, (which we featured by way of CFTK TV News in our Podunk Below the masthead feature on March 26) approach to promotion as the coalition to energize the Highway 37 corridor posts it's presentation to video.
The results of the Nisga'a election are featured in Thursday's paper, as we outlined on the blog last Sunday, the Nisga'a Nation has elected Mitchell Stevens to replace Nelso Leeson who passed away late in 2009.
Taking advantage of the nature of the day, the Daily News features a story on the "discovery" of the time capsule, which in the spirit of April fools apparently was "found" at Third Avenue West and Borden, though the accompanying photo to the piece adds to the mystery of the day, featuring as it does the other end of Third Avenue West by Eastwind Emporium.
The Daily News reviews the sudden increase in reports of abduction attempts on the city's west side, the most recent one from last Thursday. Attempts were reported in the Kootenay Avenue area and around the Pineridge school area, there are different suspects being sought in the two incidents.
The sports section features the return of Rugby to the high school sports calendar as Charles Hays fields a team for the first time in many years, comprised mainly of CHSS students with a few attendees from PRSS. The plan is to invite High School teams from the Bulkley Valley to town for a challenge once Patullo Field is open to the public later this spring.
(Daily News Archives for Thursday, April 1, 2010 )
NTL promoting project to shareholders through Youtube
New President of the Nisga'a nation
Neighbourhood getting anxious
It's a sailor's life for me!
Enbridge attends SQCRD meeting
The Northern View
Weekend of Easter fun planned for Prince Rupert -- Details of the weekend's activities in town surrounding Easter events (see article here)
CFTK TV 7 News
No new items were posted to the CFTK TV 7 News website for April 1
CBC News British Columbia, Daybreak North
No new items were posted to the CBC website for Tuesday Daybreak North is only posting selected items on their website now.
The most recently posted items for this week can be found on the weekly archive for Daybreak North click here
Daily News, front page, headline story
NTL promoting project to shareholders through Youtube
By George T. Baker
The Daily News
Thursday, April 1, 2010
In an effort to educate British Columbians about the benefits of the Northwest Transmission Line, the Highway 37 coalition has gone ‘virtual’.
Using the Youtube online video format, the coalition ties simple electrons into the future of Northern British Columbia – suggesting that the northwest economy would grow through electrical infrastructure if only the powerline were built.
The ten minute video, created with First Nations input, is a tool the Coalition is using to get the word out about the significance of the $400 million transmission line. The proposed NTL will run from Terrace to Bob Quinn along Highway 37 in the province’s far Northwest - an area of underdevelopment and high unemployment.
“Not everyone is aware of the importance of the power line and not everyone has time to delve into all the reports and documents,” explained Coalition Co-Chair, Gitxsan Hereditary Chief Elmer Derrick.
“This [video] is a way for more people to come to know and understand why we believe this project is so important.”
“We have put together the short video to expose the opportunity the Northwest Transmission Line (NTL) represents to British Columbians and our friends in neighbouring jurisdictions,” added Coalition Co-Chair Janine North.
“We think it’s an excellent tool to inform the public and we hope everyone who watches the video comes to the same conclusion.”
The video explains that the time is now for all stakeholders to seize the opportunity – especially for First Nations, whose territory most of the powerline would traverse.
“First Nations are in a great position – probably one of the best positions they have been in since contact,” Byng Giraud, secretary for the Northwest Powerline Coalition said in the video.
Any mining potential north of Terrace is likely to need a powerline built in order to progress and ‘when’ is more the question than ‘if’.
The $404 million project is already on a list of provincial construction projects. The federal government has committed to paying $130 million, with provincial government promising to kick in the rest.
However, the BCNDP say that the project probably won’t begin in 2010, because the list is a three-year capital plan, so construction could be held off until 2012-13.
It is hoped the video may help motivate stakeholders to move faster.
The video will also be presented at a number of public events in the months to come, including the Yukon First Nations Opportunities Conference this week, the Northern Development Initiative Trust board meeting on April 21, Minerals North in Prince George on April 23rd, the North Central Local Government Association Conference in Smithers the first week of May, and at the Canadian Institute of Mining Conference in Vancouver in May.
The Northwest Power Line Coalition represents communities, First Nations, industry, associations, suppliers, businesses and individuals who support the construction of a transmission line along Highway 37 in British Columbia’s Northwest.
Daily News, front page, headline story
NTL PROMOTING PROJECT TO SHAREHOLDERS THROUGH YOUTUBE-- Some background on the debut of the Northern Transmission Line's viral video, (which we featured by way of CFTK TV News in our Podunk Below the masthead feature on March 26) approach to promotion as the coalition to energize the Highway 37 corridor posts it's presentation to video.
The results of the Nisga'a election are featured in Thursday's paper, as we outlined on the blog last Sunday, the Nisga'a Nation has elected Mitchell Stevens to replace Nelso Leeson who passed away late in 2009.
Taking advantage of the nature of the day, the Daily News features a story on the "discovery" of the time capsule, which in the spirit of April fools apparently was "found" at Third Avenue West and Borden, though the accompanying photo to the piece adds to the mystery of the day, featuring as it does the other end of Third Avenue West by Eastwind Emporium.
The Daily News reviews the sudden increase in reports of abduction attempts on the city's west side, the most recent one from last Thursday. Attempts were reported in the Kootenay Avenue area and around the Pineridge school area, there are different suspects being sought in the two incidents.
The sports section features the return of Rugby to the high school sports calendar as Charles Hays fields a team for the first time in many years, comprised mainly of CHSS students with a few attendees from PRSS. The plan is to invite High School teams from the Bulkley Valley to town for a challenge once Patullo Field is open to the public later this spring.
(Daily News Archives for Thursday, April 1, 2010 )
NTL promoting project to shareholders through Youtube
New President of the Nisga'a nation
Neighbourhood getting anxious
It's a sailor's life for me!
Enbridge attends SQCRD meeting
The Northern View
Weekend of Easter fun planned for Prince Rupert -- Details of the weekend's activities in town surrounding Easter events (see article here)
CFTK TV 7 News
No new items were posted to the CFTK TV 7 News website for April 1
CBC News British Columbia, Daybreak North
No new items were posted to the CBC website for Tuesday Daybreak North is only posting selected items on their website now.
The most recently posted items for this week can be found on the weekly archive for Daybreak North click here
Daily News, front page, headline story
NTL promoting project to shareholders through Youtube
By George T. Baker
The Daily News
Thursday, April 1, 2010
In an effort to educate British Columbians about the benefits of the Northwest Transmission Line, the Highway 37 coalition has gone ‘virtual’.
Using the Youtube online video format, the coalition ties simple electrons into the future of Northern British Columbia – suggesting that the northwest economy would grow through electrical infrastructure if only the powerline were built.
The ten minute video, created with First Nations input, is a tool the Coalition is using to get the word out about the significance of the $400 million transmission line. The proposed NTL will run from Terrace to Bob Quinn along Highway 37 in the province’s far Northwest - an area of underdevelopment and high unemployment.
“Not everyone is aware of the importance of the power line and not everyone has time to delve into all the reports and documents,” explained Coalition Co-Chair, Gitxsan Hereditary Chief Elmer Derrick.
“This [video] is a way for more people to come to know and understand why we believe this project is so important.”
“We have put together the short video to expose the opportunity the Northwest Transmission Line (NTL) represents to British Columbians and our friends in neighbouring jurisdictions,” added Coalition Co-Chair Janine North.
“We think it’s an excellent tool to inform the public and we hope everyone who watches the video comes to the same conclusion.”
The video explains that the time is now for all stakeholders to seize the opportunity – especially for First Nations, whose territory most of the powerline would traverse.
“First Nations are in a great position – probably one of the best positions they have been in since contact,” Byng Giraud, secretary for the Northwest Powerline Coalition said in the video.
Any mining potential north of Terrace is likely to need a powerline built in order to progress and ‘when’ is more the question than ‘if’.
The $404 million project is already on a list of provincial construction projects. The federal government has committed to paying $130 million, with provincial government promising to kick in the rest.
However, the BCNDP say that the project probably won’t begin in 2010, because the list is a three-year capital plan, so construction could be held off until 2012-13.
It is hoped the video may help motivate stakeholders to move faster.
The video will also be presented at a number of public events in the months to come, including the Yukon First Nations Opportunities Conference this week, the Northern Development Initiative Trust board meeting on April 21, Minerals North in Prince George on April 23rd, the North Central Local Government Association Conference in Smithers the first week of May, and at the Canadian Institute of Mining Conference in Vancouver in May.
The Northwest Power Line Coalition represents communities, First Nations, industry, associations, suppliers, businesses and individuals who support the construction of a transmission line along Highway 37 in British Columbia’s Northwest.
Thursday, April 01, 2010
It's the economy (Thursday, April 1, 2010)
Canadians mystified at end of energy efficiency program, yes to HST, but no to a minimum wage increase and up go the gasoline prices, some of the items of interest for Thursday.
Globe and Mail--Incentives fuel big rebound in auto sales
Globe and Mail-- Factories get a reboot as global demand surges
Globe and Mail-- End of ecoENERGY riles home owners
National Post-- Zellers lays off hundreds of managment-level employees
National Post-- Where growth is and where it isn't
National Post-- AIG on track to repay U.S. government before 2013
Vancouver Sun-- B.C. won't raise minimum wage: Coell
New York Times-- Moves to Garnish Pay Rise as More Debtors Fall Behind
New York Times-- From Lithuania, a View of Austerity’s Costs
New York Times-- Coming Visit May Signal Easing by China on Currency
USA Today-- Good sign for economy: Hiring rebounds on Wall Street
USA Today-- Geithner: Bailouts were unfair but necessary
Guardian UK online-- Industry fears steel price hike will derail recovery
Guardian UK online-- Petrol prices hit near-record levels as fuel duty increases
Guardian UK online-- US treasury secretary Geithner says unemployment is 'terribly high'
Times online-- Business leaders flock to back Tory tax cut
Times online-- Manufacturing figures offer relief but reasons to be cautious
Telegraph UK online-- Euro voices enter the renminbi debate, but the US may not like what it hears
Telegraph UK online-- Business leaders join push to scrap 'jobs tax'
Telegraph UK online-- Calling all entrepreneurs. What must we learn from the spirit of the States?
Melbourne Herald Sun-- Argus bows out at 'defining moment'
Melbourne Herald Sun-- Woolworths reduces Visa Debit card use
Sydney Daily Telegraph-- Lihir Gold shares soar on failed Newcrest bid
People's Daily-- Downturn accelerates shift in influence to Asia
People's Daily-- Four agencies release budgets
China Daily-- China's top iron mining company to double production
China Daily-- Hyundai Heavy to build wind turbine plant in China
Times of India-- Food inflation rises to 16.35%
Times of India-- Torrent Pharma now billion dollar company
Globe and Mail--Incentives fuel big rebound in auto sales
Globe and Mail-- Factories get a reboot as global demand surges
Globe and Mail-- End of ecoENERGY riles home owners
National Post-- Zellers lays off hundreds of managment-level employees
National Post-- Where growth is and where it isn't
National Post-- AIG on track to repay U.S. government before 2013
Vancouver Sun-- B.C. won't raise minimum wage: Coell
New York Times-- Moves to Garnish Pay Rise as More Debtors Fall Behind
New York Times-- From Lithuania, a View of Austerity’s Costs
New York Times-- Coming Visit May Signal Easing by China on Currency
USA Today-- Good sign for economy: Hiring rebounds on Wall Street
USA Today-- Geithner: Bailouts were unfair but necessary
Guardian UK online-- Industry fears steel price hike will derail recovery
Guardian UK online-- Petrol prices hit near-record levels as fuel duty increases
Guardian UK online-- US treasury secretary Geithner says unemployment is 'terribly high'
Times online-- Business leaders flock to back Tory tax cut
Times online-- Manufacturing figures offer relief but reasons to be cautious
Telegraph UK online-- Euro voices enter the renminbi debate, but the US may not like what it hears
Telegraph UK online-- Business leaders join push to scrap 'jobs tax'
Telegraph UK online-- Calling all entrepreneurs. What must we learn from the spirit of the States?
Melbourne Herald Sun-- Argus bows out at 'defining moment'
Melbourne Herald Sun-- Woolworths reduces Visa Debit card use
Sydney Daily Telegraph-- Lihir Gold shares soar on failed Newcrest bid
People's Daily-- Downturn accelerates shift in influence to Asia
People's Daily-- Four agencies release budgets
China Daily-- China's top iron mining company to double production
China Daily-- Hyundai Heavy to build wind turbine plant in China
Times of India-- Food inflation rises to 16.35%
Times of India-- Torrent Pharma now billion dollar company
Watson Island plans come into focus
As Prince Rupert celebrates it's 100th anniversary, we now at long last, finally hear of some progress on the Watson Island situation, as a new development seems set to take root in the long since dormant site.
Pulp and Paper production, clearly has had its day on the island and as has been noted recently in the media, the six previously accepted bids for development seemingly have been turned down, leaving many to wonder what is next. As things turn out, there may have been a very good reason as to the silence on the issue.
Rupertites will soon learn that all these delays were worth it, as plans have been put into works to apparently turn the industrial site into a Barkerville like development, as a tribute to the city's long held champion, Charles Hays. In what can only be described as an ambitious project, what once was the scene of some of the dirtiest of heavy industry, will soon be home to an environmentally friendly multi faceted destination spot, featuring much in the way of charting the path of the city laid out by Hays before his untimely death on the Titanic.
In effect, we'll have a replica town site of what Prince Rupert could have been from the eyes of Mr. Hays.
Leases are in the works for a variety of tourist oriented activities for the site, including a theatre, restaurants and boutiques and a replica town site of Prince Rupert from those very early days of development and a small amusement park featuring period piece rides through the decades.
Famous Rupertties of the past will be featured as named pavilions, with such luminaries as Pattullo and Lester considered the most popular of names for the structures. Focus groups were conducted over the last three months to examine the plan. The results of that study have found that financially, the project could recoup much of the lost tax revenue over the last few years, as tourists are expected to flock to the site upon its completion, apparently willingly ready to pay the fifteen dollar a head gate fee to wander what should be a most impressive display of British Columbia's North coast history. It's hoped that the Cruise ship lines that regularly visit the city will be among the first to sign on for package deals once the gates open, expected for this time next year.
Only British Columbia products will be utilized in the construction phase of the project, much of the wood to be claimed from local forests, for use on the buildings and boardwalks that in some parts of the planned park will match up with those from the turn of the last century.
Outside interests that lease out the on-site spaces will be required to sign an agreement ensuring that local contractors and residents have first claim of opportunity for employment and service tenders for supplies both pre and post construction.
Likely names for the theme park are rumoured to be a toss up between Haystown or Charles Hays Village, logos featuring Charles Hays dressed in a top coat and bowler hat and making a welcoming bow have been designed for the anticipated launch of the project during Prince Rupert's Homecoming in May.
Striving to lead Prince Rupert out of the recession, park developers are adamant in their declaration that only a fool would think that this kind of project has no future. Tourism they say is the one key element on the North coast that still remains untapped, they're hoping that this future of Watson Island brings much mirth to locals and visitors alike.
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