Posts
Got a couple of emails today about an audio recording that was done at a recent meeting of Bridgegate (River Run) investors that I haven't had a chance to hear yet (busy day in real estate :-)). One of them went as follows...
Canadian Business Magazine's forum 'Investing for Beginners' has been the thread about the BBoys adventures. A posting today by Varabel has the Audio of the meeting including words from Mayor Irwin. Also posted are the voting results by the investors and legal paperwork from the Trustee. Take care.
http://forums.canadianbusiness.com/thread.jspa?threadID=12289&start=1065&tstart=0
http://www.feeltheenergy.ca/
UPDATE (Feb. 02): Just got a heads-up email that the above Audio Tape is no longer available. Sure enough, when I clicked on it there is no longer a tape to listen to? Oh well, at least it was up long enough for many of us to get an 'ear-full', so to speak.
Also, since nobody on council has ventured forth to tell us what is going on, I suspect rather than one or two of them being complicit in this fiasco, all of them must be! Sadly, as I figure it, that can be the only explanation for their continued silence on this matter (where has all the money gone?). I'm sure they are hoping they can ignore it until the night of the election forum, and then try and bamboozle their way through to being deserving of getting elected again. If the electorate allows them to get away with this, then they will deserve what they get... which is more 'good government'... at taxpayer expense.
UPDATE (Feb. 03): Got an email this morning telling me the above site with the River Run Audio Tape is back up and running, and sure enough it is!
btw/ The new Chairman of the RiverRun Investors Group is Myron Achtman, who is also the webmaster for the above site. A good man to know and contact person for those with the need 1-800-578-1644.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Join Together Alberta
I just wanted to give everyone a heads up on the Join Together Alberta Town Hall in Pincher Creek today, Jan 28th at 7PM at the Town Hall Gymnasium 962 St. John Avenue.
These town halls are being organized in opposition to the Stelmach government's cuts to public services in our province and our communities, and I'm very supportive of this campaign. Campaigns in other towns already have drawn big crowds, and there is the potential to meet a lot of like-minded folks from your community, so I am encouraging participation and getting involved in the campaign to network.
If you can get involved or even just attend, it would be in your best interest to do so, as you will in all likelihood be directly affected by these cuts.
http://www.jointogetheralberta.ca/events/pincher-creek-town-hall
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?v=wall&gid=247817444550
UPDATE: Having attended this town hall meeting and after listening to the four speakers, the only conclusion I could come out of it with is that the proposed cuts have nothing, or very little to do with balancing the books (at the expense of doing more harm and losing more jobs in Alberta than what was recently lost because of the recession/financial collapse!) and more to do with ideology and politics.
A conservative government is an organized hypocrisy.
These town halls are being organized in opposition to the Stelmach government's cuts to public services in our province and our communities, and I'm very supportive of this campaign. Campaigns in other towns already have drawn big crowds, and there is the potential to meet a lot of like-minded folks from your community, so I am encouraging participation and getting involved in the campaign to network.
If you can get involved or even just attend, it would be in your best interest to do so, as you will in all likelihood be directly affected by these cuts.
http://www.jointogetheralberta.ca/events/pincher-creek-town-hall
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?v=wall&gid=247817444550
UPDATE: Having attended this town hall meeting and after listening to the four speakers, the only conclusion I could come out of it with is that the proposed cuts have nothing, or very little to do with balancing the books (at the expense of doing more harm and losing more jobs in Alberta than what was recently lost because of the recession/financial collapse!) and more to do with ideology and politics.
A conservative government is an organized hypocrisy.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Politicians Are Not the Kind of Tools Our Soldiers Need
From Rick Mercer
There's no doubt about it; Canadians have been very generous in Haiti. People in this country have given an incredible amount of money. But once again it's members of the Canadian Forces that are doing the heavy lifting. Because really by the time most of us realize just how devastating this situation was, by the time most of us sat down at our laptops and made a donation, a thousand Canadian soldiers were already on their way to Haiti. And a thousand more show up this week.
Imagine if that was your job. Just drop everything and go to Hell on Earth and you have no idea when you're coming home to your family. Because I don't know what it's like where you work, but people at the CBC complain when the elevators are on the fritz. But that's soldiers for you. That's what they do. And that's why we admire them. And that is why soldiers make the perfect political prop. In the old days politicians loved to get their pictures taken with babies. These days, it's soldiers. Which is why this past July, 300 Canadian soldiers were given a mission. They were told to drop everything and show up at Canadian Forces base Gagetown, in uniform in front of the cameras and clap and cheer as the Minister of Defense announced that this government was finally buying them new armored vehicles which we know they so desperately need.
And so it was perfect timing this past week, when every headline was dominated by the humanitarian crisis in Haiti that the government let it slip out very quietly that the purchase of armored vehicles is now on "permanent hold" or what a civilian would call cancelled. Turns out it was just a photo op and perhaps a new low in Canadian politics. You know, it's one thing for the government to order soldiers to put their lives at risk for Canada. That's their job. But to drag them out and use them as a political prop, that's going too far. At least babies can scream or throw up on a politician. Soldiers, they don't get that option.
There's no doubt about it; Canadians have been very generous in Haiti. People in this country have given an incredible amount of money. But once again it's members of the Canadian Forces that are doing the heavy lifting. Because really by the time most of us realize just how devastating this situation was, by the time most of us sat down at our laptops and made a donation, a thousand Canadian soldiers were already on their way to Haiti. And a thousand more show up this week.
Imagine if that was your job. Just drop everything and go to Hell on Earth and you have no idea when you're coming home to your family. Because I don't know what it's like where you work, but people at the CBC complain when the elevators are on the fritz. But that's soldiers for you. That's what they do. And that's why we admire them. And that is why soldiers make the perfect political prop. In the old days politicians loved to get their pictures taken with babies. These days, it's soldiers. Which is why this past July, 300 Canadian soldiers were given a mission. They were told to drop everything and show up at Canadian Forces base Gagetown, in uniform in front of the cameras and clap and cheer as the Minister of Defense announced that this government was finally buying them new armored vehicles which we know they so desperately need.
And so it was perfect timing this past week, when every headline was dominated by the humanitarian crisis in Haiti that the government let it slip out very quietly that the purchase of armored vehicles is now on "permanent hold" or what a civilian would call cancelled. Turns out it was just a photo op and perhaps a new low in Canadian politics. You know, it's one thing for the government to order soldiers to put their lives at risk for Canada. That's their job. But to drag them out and use them as a political prop, that's going too far. At least babies can scream or throw up on a politician. Soldiers, they don't get that option.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Most Amazing Story
A couple from Montana were out riding on the range, he with his rifle and she (fortunately) with her camera. Their dogs always followed them, but on this occasion a Mountain Lion decided that he wanted to stalk the dogs (you'll see the dogs in the background watching). Very, very bad decision.
The hunter got off the mule with his rifle and decided to shoot in the air to scare away the lion, but before he could get off a shot the lion charged in and decided he wanted a piece of those dogs.. With that, the mule took off and decided HE wanted a piece of that lion. That's when all hell broke loose for the lion.
As the lion approached the dogs, the mule snatched him up by the tail and started whirling him around. Banging its head on the ground on every pass. Then he dropped it, stomped on it and held it to the ground by the throat. The mule then got down on his knees and bit the thing all over a couple of dozen times to make sure it was dead, then whipped it into the air again, walked back over to the couple (that were stunned in silence) and stood there ready to continue his ride as if nothing had just happened.
Fortunately, even though the hunter didn't get off a shot, his wife got off these four pictures.
note: Thanks for this Stan... Happy Trails to You!
The hunter got off the mule with his rifle and decided to shoot in the air to scare away the lion, but before he could get off a shot the lion charged in and decided he wanted a piece of those dogs.. With that, the mule took off and decided HE wanted a piece of that lion. That's when all hell broke loose for the lion.
As the lion approached the dogs, the mule snatched him up by the tail and started whirling him around. Banging its head on the ground on every pass. Then he dropped it, stomped on it and held it to the ground by the throat. The mule then got down on his knees and bit the thing all over a couple of dozen times to make sure it was dead, then whipped it into the air again, walked back over to the couple (that were stunned in silence) and stood there ready to continue his ride as if nothing had just happened.
Fortunately, even though the hunter didn't get off a shot, his wife got off these four pictures.
note: Thanks for this Stan... Happy Trails to You!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Prorogue protests hit Harper
By Sarah Mcginnis, Calgary Herald
Thousands rally across Canada against move to shut Parliament
Frustration over the Harper government's decision to prorogue Parliament spurred around 200 Calgarians to join thousands of Canadians in protests across the country on Saturday.
A blast of winter and slick roads couldn't keep John Prince of Crowsnest Pass from driving with his wife to Calgary for his first political protest.
He said it was important to be outside Prime Minister Stephen Harper's constituency office to speak out about his use of a contentious parliamentary procedure used to suspend the House of Commons and Senate until March.
"I'm concerned at the way he's taking our country," Prince said. "I'm concerned about the war, the mounting deficit and that he is behaving as a dictator by shutting down Parliament. It's a very scary situation."
Crowds in Toronto and Ottawa numbered in the thousands, and the group in Harper's hometown was larger than any recent anti-Conservative protest.
Waving Canadian flags and signs which said "I'm back to work Monday, are you" and "we do care Mr. Harper", Calgary protesters sang the national anthem before chanting "get back to work."
Teri Posyniak stirred the crowd when the reservist's mother said Canada's prorogued parliament cast doubts on its mission in Afghanistan.
"Why are you sending our boys over to Afghanistan for democracy when you are trashing it?" asked Posyniak, who lives in Harper's riding. "I do not want my son to die for this in Afghanistan when he should probably be fighting with us at home."
Harper's decision to prevent Parliament from resuming Jan. 25 sparked a backlash that has seen his party's double-digit lead in the polls evaporate.
A Facebook group opposing the move grew to include more than 210,000 members, but there were questions whether that number would translate into actual bodies at Saturday's protests in 50 Canadian communities.
An estimated 3,000 people gathered to hear opposition leaders chide Harper.
"The prime minister gambled on the cynical attitudes; he gambled on the disenchantment with respect to politics," Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff told an Ottawa crowd, speaking in French. "Ladies and gentlemen, he lost his bet."
He said the outpouring of protest following the prorogation was "a very good sign of the health of our democracy."
"You have said loud and clear you do not want Parliament to be shut down when a prime minister is facing questions that he must answer," Ignatieff said.
Harper's move effectively axed several government bills and postponed committee hearings, including those delving into the treatment of Afghan detainees.
Demonstrations were also planned outside Canadian consulates in San Francisco and Dallas. People were expected to gather in Costa Rica and London.
Harper appeared unmoved by the rallies Saturday. He was asked several times about the rallies during a morning news conference.
His repeated answer was that the government was busy. He did not refer to the rallies in his replies.
"Let me just say the government is extremely occupied these days," he said. "The government has a lot of work to do to get ourselves prepared for the upcoming agenda of Parliament.
"I would obviously simply urge our opposition to spend their time making constructive proposals."
Also appearing at the Ottawa rally, NDP Leader Jack Layton urged the government to pass a law that would prevent the prorogation of Parliament without the approval of a majority of MPs -- later chanting with the crowd "pass the bill, pass the bill."
"The House of Commons, if you think about that word, is supposed to be the house of the people," Layton said. "We are here today, on the steps of Parliament Hill to say, 'Mr. Harper, unlock these doors.' "
Demonstrations in Halifax, Edmonton, Vancouver, Montreal and Windsor, Ont., each drew hundreds as well.
Teachers Joe and Anne Marie MacEachern had never attended a political protest before. But they wanted to stand against what they say is a misuse of government powers.
"I think the prime minister is in the process of hurting our democracy," said Joe MacEachern. "I think he's hiding something. I would like to see him get back to work."
Saturday's protest in Calgary garnered a fraction of the estimated 3,000 people who gathered at Olympic Plaza 13 months ago to rally against a Liberal-led opposition coalition's bid to overtake the Conservative government.
Many of the patrons visiting stores and coffee shops at Glenmore Landing this weekend either knew little about the prorogue controversy -- or felt it wasn't a major issue.
Nicole Saul said she was more concerned about her job and the floundering economy than whether or not parliament was in session. "I'm more worried about the day to day and trying to get by," said Saul.
Thousands rally across Canada against move to shut Parliament
Frustration over the Harper government's decision to prorogue Parliament spurred around 200 Calgarians to join thousands of Canadians in protests across the country on Saturday.
A blast of winter and slick roads couldn't keep John Prince of Crowsnest Pass from driving with his wife to Calgary for his first political protest.
He said it was important to be outside Prime Minister Stephen Harper's constituency office to speak out about his use of a contentious parliamentary procedure used to suspend the House of Commons and Senate until March.
"I'm concerned at the way he's taking our country," Prince said. "I'm concerned about the war, the mounting deficit and that he is behaving as a dictator by shutting down Parliament. It's a very scary situation."
Crowds in Toronto and Ottawa numbered in the thousands, and the group in Harper's hometown was larger than any recent anti-Conservative protest.
Waving Canadian flags and signs which said "I'm back to work Monday, are you" and "we do care Mr. Harper", Calgary protesters sang the national anthem before chanting "get back to work."
Teri Posyniak stirred the crowd when the reservist's mother said Canada's prorogued parliament cast doubts on its mission in Afghanistan.
"Why are you sending our boys over to Afghanistan for democracy when you are trashing it?" asked Posyniak, who lives in Harper's riding. "I do not want my son to die for this in Afghanistan when he should probably be fighting with us at home."
Harper's decision to prevent Parliament from resuming Jan. 25 sparked a backlash that has seen his party's double-digit lead in the polls evaporate.
A Facebook group opposing the move grew to include more than 210,000 members, but there were questions whether that number would translate into actual bodies at Saturday's protests in 50 Canadian communities.
An estimated 3,000 people gathered to hear opposition leaders chide Harper.
"The prime minister gambled on the cynical attitudes; he gambled on the disenchantment with respect to politics," Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff told an Ottawa crowd, speaking in French. "Ladies and gentlemen, he lost his bet."
He said the outpouring of protest following the prorogation was "a very good sign of the health of our democracy."
"You have said loud and clear you do not want Parliament to be shut down when a prime minister is facing questions that he must answer," Ignatieff said.
Harper's move effectively axed several government bills and postponed committee hearings, including those delving into the treatment of Afghan detainees.
Demonstrations were also planned outside Canadian consulates in San Francisco and Dallas. People were expected to gather in Costa Rica and London.
Harper appeared unmoved by the rallies Saturday. He was asked several times about the rallies during a morning news conference.
His repeated answer was that the government was busy. He did not refer to the rallies in his replies.
"Let me just say the government is extremely occupied these days," he said. "The government has a lot of work to do to get ourselves prepared for the upcoming agenda of Parliament.
"I would obviously simply urge our opposition to spend their time making constructive proposals."
Also appearing at the Ottawa rally, NDP Leader Jack Layton urged the government to pass a law that would prevent the prorogation of Parliament without the approval of a majority of MPs -- later chanting with the crowd "pass the bill, pass the bill."
"The House of Commons, if you think about that word, is supposed to be the house of the people," Layton said. "We are here today, on the steps of Parliament Hill to say, 'Mr. Harper, unlock these doors.' "
Demonstrations in Halifax, Edmonton, Vancouver, Montreal and Windsor, Ont., each drew hundreds as well.
Teachers Joe and Anne Marie MacEachern had never attended a political protest before. But they wanted to stand against what they say is a misuse of government powers.
"I think the prime minister is in the process of hurting our democracy," said Joe MacEachern. "I think he's hiding something. I would like to see him get back to work."
Saturday's protest in Calgary garnered a fraction of the estimated 3,000 people who gathered at Olympic Plaza 13 months ago to rally against a Liberal-led opposition coalition's bid to overtake the Conservative government.
Many of the patrons visiting stores and coffee shops at Glenmore Landing this weekend either knew little about the prorogue controversy -- or felt it wasn't a major issue.
Nicole Saul said she was more concerned about her job and the floundering economy than whether or not parliament was in session. "I'm more worried about the day to day and trying to get by," said Saul.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Calgary stages rally to protest proroguing of Parliament
By Sarah McGinnis, Calgary Herald, Canwest News Service
About 200 people showed up as Calgarians Against Proroguing Parliament held a rally to oppose Prime Minister Stephen Harper's move to prorogue Parliament. The Calgary version of the cross Canada rally took place in front of the Prime Ministers Calgary Office on January 23, 2010. Photograph by: Lorraine Hjalte, Calgary Herald
OTTAWA —On a chilly Saturday afternoon around 200 Calgarians gathered outside Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s southwest constituency office to protest against his move to prorogue parliament.
Protests in cities across Canada were held Saturday, sparked by Harper’s Dec. 30 announcement that he would prorogue, or suspend, Parliament until March 3.
Waving Canadian flags and anti-prorogation signs in the light snowfall, Calgary protesters sang the national anthem before chanting “get back to work.”
Teri Posyniak is the mother of a reservist who spoke of her disappointment in Canada’s prime minister.
“Why are you sending our boys over to Afghanistan for democracy when you are trashing it,” she said. “I do not want my son to die for this in Afghanistan when he should probably be fighting with us at home.”
Scott Payne with Calgarians Against Proroguing Parliament helped organize Saturday’s rally. Even though Calgary may be the heart of Tory territory, Payne said this city cares about its government and many people wanted to speak out against what they feel is an inappropriate use of proroging powers.
For many people meandering through the mall, like Nicole Saul, prorogation couldn’t compare to compelling concerns of the economic downturn and the job market.
Demonstrators made their presence felt on a sunny day in the nation’s capital, holding signs with such messages as Democracy Works, and taking part in singalongs, including a rendition of O Canada at a rally that was also attended by Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff and NDP Leader Jack Layton.
Estimates pegged the turnout at more than 3,000 people.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced on Dec. 30 that Parliament would prorogue until March, instead of resuming on January.
The decision sparked a backlash, especially online, where a Facebook group opposing the move grew to include more than 210,000 members.
There were questions whether that number would translate into actual bodies at Saturday’s protests, but rallies in Ottawa and Toronto drew thousands of participants.
NDP Leader Jack Layton Layton called on the government to pass a law that would prevent the prorogation of Parliament without the approval of a majority of MPs — later chanting with the crowd “pass the bill, pass the bill.”
“The House of Commons, if you think about that word, is supposed to be the house of the people,” said Jack Layton.
“We are here today, on the steps of Parliament Hill to say, ‘Mr. Harper, unlock these doors.’ ”
Ignatieff also chided Harper.
“The prime minister gambled on the cynical attitudes; he gambled on the disenchantment with respect to politics,” Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff told the crowd, speaking in French.
“Ladies and gentlemen, he lost his bet.”
He said the outpouring of protest following the decision prorogue was “a very good sign of the health of our democracy.”
“You have said loud and clear you do not want Parliament to be shut down when a prime minister is facing questions that he must answer,” Ignatieff said.
Organizers were boasting of rallies in 50 communities across the country, including major centres such as Toronto — where estimates of crowd attendance were also in the thousands — Calgary and Vancouver.
Demonstrations were also planned outside Canadian consulates in San Francisco, Calif., and Dallas, Texas. People were also expected to gather in Costa Rica and London.
Harper appeared unmoved by the rallies Saturday. He was asked several times about the rallies during a morning news conference.
His repeated answer was basically that the government was busy. He did not refer to the rallies in his replies.
“Let me just say the government is extremely occupied these days,” he said.
“The government has a lot of work to do to get ourselves prepared for the upcoming agenda of Parliament,” he said.
“I would obviously simply urge our opposition to spend their time making constructive proposals. I think we’ve obviously had a successful year rolling out infrastructure projects, but we now have to turn our mind to a broader agenda to some of the economic challenges, including deficit reduction, ahead of us. And I would urge all parties to contribute constructively to that agenda.”
With files from Juliet O’Neill, Canwest News Service
© Copyright (c) The Calgary Herald
--------------------------------------------------------
note: Tired!... But I done, done did what I done had to do! :-) That's me in the middle of the picture holding the sign that reads...
Harper,
You may be the PM
But we're your Boss
... Get back to work!
John & Jane Q.
Taxpayer
UPDATE: CBC National's news coverage of PROTESTS ACROSS CANADA includes the Calgary protest, along with an excellent clip of my beautiful smiling wife at 2:06 (front and center wearing a green coat (I'm standing next to her but am hidden behind my protest sign :-( :-)). A note of interest, I think, is that the vast majority of people that came out were 'babyboomers'. That is both interesting and frightening, I'm sure, for the Harpercons, as it should be.
About 200 people showed up as Calgarians Against Proroguing Parliament held a rally to oppose Prime Minister Stephen Harper's move to prorogue Parliament. The Calgary version of the cross Canada rally took place in front of the Prime Ministers Calgary Office on January 23, 2010. Photograph by: Lorraine Hjalte, Calgary Herald
OTTAWA —On a chilly Saturday afternoon around 200 Calgarians gathered outside Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s southwest constituency office to protest against his move to prorogue parliament.
Protests in cities across Canada were held Saturday, sparked by Harper’s Dec. 30 announcement that he would prorogue, or suspend, Parliament until March 3.
Waving Canadian flags and anti-prorogation signs in the light snowfall, Calgary protesters sang the national anthem before chanting “get back to work.”
Teri Posyniak is the mother of a reservist who spoke of her disappointment in Canada’s prime minister.
“Why are you sending our boys over to Afghanistan for democracy when you are trashing it,” she said. “I do not want my son to die for this in Afghanistan when he should probably be fighting with us at home.”
Scott Payne with Calgarians Against Proroguing Parliament helped organize Saturday’s rally. Even though Calgary may be the heart of Tory territory, Payne said this city cares about its government and many people wanted to speak out against what they feel is an inappropriate use of proroging powers.
For many people meandering through the mall, like Nicole Saul, prorogation couldn’t compare to compelling concerns of the economic downturn and the job market.
Demonstrators made their presence felt on a sunny day in the nation’s capital, holding signs with such messages as Democracy Works, and taking part in singalongs, including a rendition of O Canada at a rally that was also attended by Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff and NDP Leader Jack Layton.
Estimates pegged the turnout at more than 3,000 people.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced on Dec. 30 that Parliament would prorogue until March, instead of resuming on January.
The decision sparked a backlash, especially online, where a Facebook group opposing the move grew to include more than 210,000 members.
There were questions whether that number would translate into actual bodies at Saturday’s protests, but rallies in Ottawa and Toronto drew thousands of participants.
NDP Leader Jack Layton Layton called on the government to pass a law that would prevent the prorogation of Parliament without the approval of a majority of MPs — later chanting with the crowd “pass the bill, pass the bill.”
“The House of Commons, if you think about that word, is supposed to be the house of the people,” said Jack Layton.
“We are here today, on the steps of Parliament Hill to say, ‘Mr. Harper, unlock these doors.’ ”
Ignatieff also chided Harper.
“The prime minister gambled on the cynical attitudes; he gambled on the disenchantment with respect to politics,” Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff told the crowd, speaking in French.
“Ladies and gentlemen, he lost his bet.”
He said the outpouring of protest following the decision prorogue was “a very good sign of the health of our democracy.”
“You have said loud and clear you do not want Parliament to be shut down when a prime minister is facing questions that he must answer,” Ignatieff said.
Organizers were boasting of rallies in 50 communities across the country, including major centres such as Toronto — where estimates of crowd attendance were also in the thousands — Calgary and Vancouver.
Demonstrations were also planned outside Canadian consulates in San Francisco, Calif., and Dallas, Texas. People were also expected to gather in Costa Rica and London.
Harper appeared unmoved by the rallies Saturday. He was asked several times about the rallies during a morning news conference.
His repeated answer was basically that the government was busy. He did not refer to the rallies in his replies.
“Let me just say the government is extremely occupied these days,” he said.
“The government has a lot of work to do to get ourselves prepared for the upcoming agenda of Parliament,” he said.
“I would obviously simply urge our opposition to spend their time making constructive proposals. I think we’ve obviously had a successful year rolling out infrastructure projects, but we now have to turn our mind to a broader agenda to some of the economic challenges, including deficit reduction, ahead of us. And I would urge all parties to contribute constructively to that agenda.”
With files from Juliet O’Neill, Canwest News Service
© Copyright (c) The Calgary Herald
--------------------------------------------------------
note: Tired!... But I done, done did what I done had to do! :-) That's me in the middle of the picture holding the sign that reads...
Harper,
You may be the PM
But we're your Boss
... Get back to work!
John & Jane Q.
Taxpayer
UPDATE: CBC National's news coverage of PROTESTS ACROSS CANADA includes the Calgary protest, along with an excellent clip of my beautiful smiling wife at 2:06 (front and center wearing a green coat (I'm standing next to her but am hidden behind my protest sign :-( :-)). A note of interest, I think, is that the vast majority of people that came out were 'babyboomers'. That is both interesting and frightening, I'm sure, for the Harpercons, as it should be.
Friday, January 22, 2010
So how do you like them apples, Harper?
Never doubt that a small group of people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.
Yes We Care! (Video) / Calgary Rally
"We've built tremendous momentum over the past few weeks, Ottawa is watching and listening. This is our chance to re-write the rules and bring about serious change in the way our country is run." Christopher White
_______________________________________
"Calgary is organizing an anti-prorogue rally. Join us at Prime Minister Harper's office at Glenmore Landing on Saturday, January 23 - 1pm-2:30 pm. Bring your Flag!
This non-partisan rally is intended to encourage discussion about how prorogation affects us and to create an opportunity for Calgarians to take action through dialogue, affirmative action, and peaceful assembly."
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Crowsnest Pass election 'predictions' for 2010
This week's Pass Herald newspaper lays out the future for the Pass, as the 'old school' would have it. In essence, put together a field of candidates to run for council in this year's municipal election, who if successful, will revert things back (think CLC) to the old way of doing things while at the same time, and most importantly, maintaining the current status quo. Stagnation and decline is their 'mantra'.
The 'new school', lead by the likes of Dean and his cohorts on the Adhoc Committee (made up of members from the Chamber of Commerce and Community Futures (the latter swings both ways, and in all probability will be the King makers)) who I'm sure will have some new 'vision' and 'plan' just before the election that only they can implement (and in so doing save our community), with their own field of candidates, of course. Unfettered capitalism and consumerism is their 'mantra'.
So there you have it. Two groups fighting over the turkey come this October. Neither trusted by the other, and both determined to win... no matter the cost... to the community. Winner takes all! We take no prisoners!!
It should make for an amusing and interesting time over the next few months. But sadly, will probably have an end result of only dividing this community further... rather than bringing us together.
Greed is the gas and fear the brake. As a result, there’s almost always a wreck somewhere.
The 'new school', lead by the likes of Dean and his cohorts on the Adhoc Committee (made up of members from the Chamber of Commerce and Community Futures (the latter swings both ways, and in all probability will be the King makers)) who I'm sure will have some new 'vision' and 'plan' just before the election that only they can implement (and in so doing save our community), with their own field of candidates, of course. Unfettered capitalism and consumerism is their 'mantra'.
So there you have it. Two groups fighting over the turkey come this October. Neither trusted by the other, and both determined to win... no matter the cost... to the community. Winner takes all! We take no prisoners!!
It should make for an amusing and interesting time over the next few months. But sadly, will probably have an end result of only dividing this community further... rather than bringing us together.
Greed is the gas and fear the brake. As a result, there’s almost always a wreck somewhere.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Polls Suggest Somebody Did Something Stupid
From Rick Mercer
So how about those polls hey?
For the first time in a very long time the Liberals and the Tories are essentially tied, well at least they're within the margin of error. Now polls never tell the full story but this much is certain. Whenever the party in power drops 15 points in 15 days, you can be assured of one thing. Someone in charge just did something really stupid. In this case the Prime Minister figured he could suspend Parliament for three months and get away with it, because in his words Canadians just don't care. Boy was he wrong. Wow. He should get out more. Maybe go to a Tim Horton's. Get a feel for the place.
See this is what I love about Canada. Yes, we are apathetic. But the minute anyone tries to use our apathy against us suddenly we start to care big time. It's funny the Prime Minister doesn't get this. Instead he just keeps saying, "Oh, don't worry. Yes, I've suspended Parliament, but don't worry, I'm hard at work." You know what? Big deal, of course he's at work, he's the Prime Minister. I'm sure Raul Castro's gonna put in a full day tomorrow running Cuba, we just like to think that the bar is set a little bit higher up here.
Bottom line is Canadians got together, we elected 308 Members of Parliament to go to Ottawa and represent us and one Member of Parliament – Stephen Harper – sent them packing.
Prime Minister, with all due respect, I know it's your job to run the country, I'm glad you're hard at it. But it's the voters who get to send MPs home. And with poll numbers like this, you might want to keep that in mind.
So how about those polls hey?
For the first time in a very long time the Liberals and the Tories are essentially tied, well at least they're within the margin of error. Now polls never tell the full story but this much is certain. Whenever the party in power drops 15 points in 15 days, you can be assured of one thing. Someone in charge just did something really stupid. In this case the Prime Minister figured he could suspend Parliament for three months and get away with it, because in his words Canadians just don't care. Boy was he wrong. Wow. He should get out more. Maybe go to a Tim Horton's. Get a feel for the place.
See this is what I love about Canada. Yes, we are apathetic. But the minute anyone tries to use our apathy against us suddenly we start to care big time. It's funny the Prime Minister doesn't get this. Instead he just keeps saying, "Oh, don't worry. Yes, I've suspended Parliament, but don't worry, I'm hard at work." You know what? Big deal, of course he's at work, he's the Prime Minister. I'm sure Raul Castro's gonna put in a full day tomorrow running Cuba, we just like to think that the bar is set a little bit higher up here.
Bottom line is Canadians got together, we elected 308 Members of Parliament to go to Ottawa and represent us and one Member of Parliament – Stephen Harper – sent them packing.
Prime Minister, with all due respect, I know it's your job to run the country, I'm glad you're hard at it. But it's the voters who get to send MPs home. And with poll numbers like this, you might want to keep that in mind.
Monday, January 18, 2010
NATIONAL DAY OF ACTION JANUARY 23RD
Just committed to joining others at one of the official Canadians Against Proroguing Parliament rallies taking place across Canada this coming Saturday. My wife and I will be attending the...Calgarians Against Proroguing Parliament Rally
In this regard, I placed the following comment on the above blog...
"Come on Calgarians, if my wife and I can do the 2-1/2 hour drive there and back from the Crowsnest Pass to attend, I'm sure more of you can too!"
My 'protest sign' message to Harper...
"You may be the Prime Minister
But I'm your Boss... Get back to work!"
This will be my first ever 'protest rally'. I feel like a hippy... I'm back in the Sixties again! 'Grey Power'!!... Ya gotta love it!!! :-)Any other brave souls from the Crowsnest wanting to voice their concerns about prorogation and wanting to work towards making a better Canada, can get involved (nonpartisan). Those willing to become a politically engaged Canadian who exercises their democratic right to stand up for democracy, outside Mr. Harper's office, can contact me at 403-564-4518. The rest of you will do well to remember...
"In Germany they came first for the Communists, and I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a Communist. Then they came for the Jews, and I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a Jew. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a trade unionist. Then they came for Catholics, and I didn’t speak up because I was a Protestant. Then they came for me, and by that time no one was left to speak up."
We are learned in self-doubt, scholars of our very failures, geniuses at excuse and tomorrowing our resolves. And so we become practiced in powerless resolution until hope gets undone and dies in the unattempted.
Mounties Under Fire - Premieres on CBC - January 21 at 9pm
If you're one of the tens of thousands whose trust in the RCMP has been rocked by repeated scandal, here is a film you must see. MOUNTIES UNDER FIRE is a gripping journey into the heart of the RCMP during a period of profound crisis, revealing a painfully flawed organization fighting for its life.
From top brass to beat cop, Bountiful Films captures a force in the throes of self-examination, struggling to get back to its core values. Filmmaker Helen Slinger was struck by the frankness, and discomfort, with which senior RCMP responded to the film. "When commenting on the intimate view of the force that resulted from the open access we were able to negotiate, one senior Mountie said it all: 'Riveting, but it hurts.'"
For more information on the film and the RCMP: Go to http://bountiful.ca/
And please forward this email to any in your circle who might like to like to see this film.
MOUNTIES UNDER FIRE
CBC's Doc Zone
Thursday, January 21 at 9pm (9:30 NT)
note: For sometime now I have spoken out on this blog and on my Land of the Taser, Home of the Slave blog, on the inhumane use of Tasers by our police forces across Canada, resulting in torture and death on those of us they have been entrusted to 'serve and protect' (sic). The RCMP, especially, have been singled out mainly because of what they did to a Polish immigrant newly arrived to Canada, but also because of the complete lack of accountability and immunity to prosecution resulting in real jail time (comparable to what any of us so-called denizens would receive if the roles were reversed). This is a police force that is totally out of control... and the bodies keep piling up. From what I understand the above CBC documentary attests to this fact.
UPDATE: Watched this last night and was 'extremely' disappointed. Thought it landed up being more of a PR propaganda exercise on behalf of the RCMP, rather than an honest, hardhitting 'expose' on how completely out of control they are. Far too much attention and time spent on their recruitment and training facility in Regina (including 'Taser' training exercises (sic)), rather than on their complete lack of accountability, truth and transparency.
To see what is in front of one's nose needs a constant struggle.
From top brass to beat cop, Bountiful Films captures a force in the throes of self-examination, struggling to get back to its core values. Filmmaker Helen Slinger was struck by the frankness, and discomfort, with which senior RCMP responded to the film. "When commenting on the intimate view of the force that resulted from the open access we were able to negotiate, one senior Mountie said it all: 'Riveting, but it hurts.'"
For more information on the film and the RCMP: Go to http://bountiful.ca/
And please forward this email to any in your circle who might like to like to see this film.
MOUNTIES UNDER FIRE
CBC's Doc Zone
Thursday, January 21 at 9pm (9:30 NT)
note: For sometime now I have spoken out on this blog and on my Land of the Taser, Home of the Slave blog, on the inhumane use of Tasers by our police forces across Canada, resulting in torture and death on those of us they have been entrusted to 'serve and protect' (sic). The RCMP, especially, have been singled out mainly because of what they did to a Polish immigrant newly arrived to Canada, but also because of the complete lack of accountability and immunity to prosecution resulting in real jail time (comparable to what any of us so-called denizens would receive if the roles were reversed). This is a police force that is totally out of control... and the bodies keep piling up. From what I understand the above CBC documentary attests to this fact.
UPDATE: Watched this last night and was 'extremely' disappointed. Thought it landed up being more of a PR propaganda exercise on behalf of the RCMP, rather than an honest, hardhitting 'expose' on how completely out of control they are. Far too much attention and time spent on their recruitment and training facility in Regina (including 'Taser' training exercises (sic)), rather than on their complete lack of accountability, truth and transparency.
To see what is in front of one's nose needs a constant struggle.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Shutdown leaves Tories, Liberals nearly tied: poll
The 'Hurting Kind' of poll is what the HarperCons have just received. And the 'real war' against them, has not even begun yet. They are going down like the Titanic went down... and just as fast! The 'eyes of the people' have been opened.
It has been said, "A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions." We know now that the emperor has no clothes. Things have changed, and for the better... I think. People are now Awake... "the sleeper has Awoken!"
When the House eventually sits again COALITION should be on everybodys mind, if not an outright election. The next step is to form a new government that will seriously work to save all our people from the calamities befalling the world, as we speak. We as a people need to rise to the occasion and throw out the dirty bathwater, and bring in the fresh.
Conservative support drops in wake of PM's decision to prorogue Parliament
Without change, something sleeps inside us, and seldom awakens. The sleeper must awaken.
It has been said, "A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions." We know now that the emperor has no clothes. Things have changed, and for the better... I think. People are now Awake... "the sleeper has Awoken!"
When the House eventually sits again COALITION should be on everybodys mind, if not an outright election. The next step is to form a new government that will seriously work to save all our people from the calamities befalling the world, as we speak. We as a people need to rise to the occasion and throw out the dirty bathwater, and bring in the fresh.
Conservative support drops in wake of PM's decision to prorogue Parliament
Without change, something sleeps inside us, and seldom awakens. The sleeper must awaken.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
noprorogue.ca
Posters are popping up all over the country with information on local rallies and directing folks to this website No Prorogue!, which is awesome! If you’d like one (or a dozen) for yourself, I know of two places they can be downloaded:
http://groups.google.com/group/anti-prorogation-marketing-ottawa/files
http://groups.google.ca/group/prorogueprotest/files
Monday, January 11, 2010
Get Back to Work
Canadians Against Proroguing Parliament-Rally Info
note: If unable to view the scrolling message then click on image to view video on YouTube.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
The Beatles - Revolution (Live)
Ya! The Sixties are back!! 130,000 and climbing!!!
Canadians Against Proroguing Parliament
"Down with the 'undemocratic' HarperCons: torture loving, war mongering, traitorous, corporate crotch sniffing, big oil whores."
When a thing has been said and well, have no scruple. Take it and copy it. :-)
Fife on Stephen Harper Prorogue (video)
note: Good summary of Harper's 'undemocratic' behaviour catching up with him.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Subject: $100.00
Its a slow day in a little Southwestern Alberta town.. The sun is beating down, and the streets are deserted. Times are tough, everybody is in debt, and everybody lives on credit.. On this particular day a rich tourist from back east is driving through town.
He stops at the motel and lays a $100 bill on the desk saying he
wants to inspect the rooms upstairs in order to pick one to spend the night.
As soon as the man walks upstairs, the owner grabs the bill and
runs next door to pay his debt to the butcher.
The butcher takes the $100 and runs down the street to retire his
debt to the pig farmer.
The pig farmer takes the $100 and heads off to pay his bill at the
supplier of feed and fuel.
The guy at the Farmer's Co-op takes the $100 and runs to pay his
debt to the local prostitute, who has also been facing hard times and has had to offer her "services" on credit.
The hooker rushes to the hotel and pays off her room bill with the
hotel owner.
The hotel proprietor then places the $100 back on the counter so
the rich traveler will not suspect anything.
At that moment the traveler comes down the stairs, picks up the
$100 bill, states that the rooms are not satisfactory, pockets the money, and leaves town.
No one produced anything. No one earned anything.
However, the whole town is now out of debt and now looks to the
future with a lot more optimism.
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is how the Canadian
Government is conducting business today.
He stops at the motel and lays a $100 bill on the desk saying he
wants to inspect the rooms upstairs in order to pick one to spend the night.
As soon as the man walks upstairs, the owner grabs the bill and
runs next door to pay his debt to the butcher.
The butcher takes the $100 and runs down the street to retire his
debt to the pig farmer.
The pig farmer takes the $100 and heads off to pay his bill at the
supplier of feed and fuel.
The guy at the Farmer's Co-op takes the $100 and runs to pay his
debt to the local prostitute, who has also been facing hard times and has had to offer her "services" on credit.
The hooker rushes to the hotel and pays off her room bill with the
hotel owner.
The hotel proprietor then places the $100 back on the counter so
the rich traveler will not suspect anything.
At that moment the traveler comes down the stairs, picks up the
$100 bill, states that the rooms are not satisfactory, pockets the money, and leaves town.
No one produced anything. No one earned anything.
However, the whole town is now out of debt and now looks to the
future with a lot more optimism.
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is how the Canadian
Government is conducting business today.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Proroguing is for children (and Stephen Harper)
The Rick Mercer Report - CBC
Even Afghanistan, where Canadians are dying, has a parliament that's open for business.
There's a very good reason why the word prorogue doesn't come up that often in our society. Why would it? The word has absolutely no resonance with anyone in Canada because the notion that you can shut down anything for months at a time is a total fantasy. That's the thing about life; it's relentless. If you are an adult and live in the real world, proroguing isn't on the agenda, in much the same way levitating isn't.
God knows I love the idea of proroguing. Everyone in Canada has lain in bed and prayed for the elusive snow day. The idea that while you slept, the heavens opened up and dumped so much snow on the ground that the front door can't open and the school bus just can't come. We all remember snow days and that glorious feeling that the deadlines, the tests, the irritating people, the routine and the responsibilities could be avoided for one entire magnificent day with no consequences whatsoever. And if you didn't do your homework, or you were heading into what you knew was going to be a world of hurt, a snow day meant you dodged the bullet.
But snow days happen to children. If you are an adult, it doesn't matter how much snow falls – you still have to get to work and you still have to shovel the walk. Snow days don't apply to adults unless you happen to be the Prime Minister of Canada, who with one phone call has the ability to give every member of Parliament two months off.
We elect these men and women to travel to Ottawa and represent us in the House of Commons. Well, forget that notion – it's old-fashioned and democratic. Welcome to Canada 2010 – we embark on a brand-new decade as a country that has taxation without representation.
It is ironic that while Parliament has been suspended, we remain a nation at war. On New Year's Eve, we greeted the news that five Canadians were killed in a single day with sadness but not surprise. We are at war because, ostensibly, we are helping bring democracy to Afghanistan. How the mission is progressing is open for debate but this much is certain – at present, there is a parliament in Afghanistan that it is very much open for business. Canada has no such institution.
In Afghanistan, President Hamid Karzai's government faces fierce opposition at every turn. Many of his cabinet choices have been rejected in a secret ballot by the more than 200 parliamentarians who sit in the legislature. Simply closing it down and operating without their consent is not an option; to do so would be blatantly undemocratic or at the very least downright Canadian. If Mr. Karzai suspended the legislature on a whim, we might be forced to ask the question why Canadians are dying to bring democracy to that country.
Stephen Harper doesn't have that problem. Our Parliament has been suspended for no other reason than the Prime Minister simply can't be bothered with the relentless checks and balances that democracy affords us. He doesn't want to have to stand in the House of Commons and hear anyone question him on any subject. I don't blame him. Parliament is filled with jackals, opportunists and boors. The problem is, like it or not, they were elected.
I also don't blame the Prime Minister for wanting to keep his ministers out of the spotlight. This is a man who could argue that he is Canada's greenest PM simply because he's the only one who has gone out of his way to give potted plants key portfolios.
The problem is, he is the one who appointed cabinet and like it or not, they are supposed to be accountable. A minister's job is not to hide in his or her riding; it is to be accountable in Ottawa – or at least that was the promise.
This Prime Minister has gone from the promise of an open, accessible and accountable government to a government that is simply closed.
It is too bad that prorogation isn't something that our soldiers had in their arsenal. When faced with the order to head out on a foot patrol in the Panjwai district of southern Afghanistan, to risk their lives to bring democracy to that place, wouldn't it be nice if they could simply prorogue and roll over and go back to sleep? Soldiers don't get that luxury. That is afforded only to the people who ultimately order them to walk down those dangerous dusty roads in the first place.
Even Afghanistan, where Canadians are dying, has a parliament that's open for business.
There's a very good reason why the word prorogue doesn't come up that often in our society. Why would it? The word has absolutely no resonance with anyone in Canada because the notion that you can shut down anything for months at a time is a total fantasy. That's the thing about life; it's relentless. If you are an adult and live in the real world, proroguing isn't on the agenda, in much the same way levitating isn't.
God knows I love the idea of proroguing. Everyone in Canada has lain in bed and prayed for the elusive snow day. The idea that while you slept, the heavens opened up and dumped so much snow on the ground that the front door can't open and the school bus just can't come. We all remember snow days and that glorious feeling that the deadlines, the tests, the irritating people, the routine and the responsibilities could be avoided for one entire magnificent day with no consequences whatsoever. And if you didn't do your homework, or you were heading into what you knew was going to be a world of hurt, a snow day meant you dodged the bullet.
But snow days happen to children. If you are an adult, it doesn't matter how much snow falls – you still have to get to work and you still have to shovel the walk. Snow days don't apply to adults unless you happen to be the Prime Minister of Canada, who with one phone call has the ability to give every member of Parliament two months off.
We elect these men and women to travel to Ottawa and represent us in the House of Commons. Well, forget that notion – it's old-fashioned and democratic. Welcome to Canada 2010 – we embark on a brand-new decade as a country that has taxation without representation.
It is ironic that while Parliament has been suspended, we remain a nation at war. On New Year's Eve, we greeted the news that five Canadians were killed in a single day with sadness but not surprise. We are at war because, ostensibly, we are helping bring democracy to Afghanistan. How the mission is progressing is open for debate but this much is certain – at present, there is a parliament in Afghanistan that it is very much open for business. Canada has no such institution.
In Afghanistan, President Hamid Karzai's government faces fierce opposition at every turn. Many of his cabinet choices have been rejected in a secret ballot by the more than 200 parliamentarians who sit in the legislature. Simply closing it down and operating without their consent is not an option; to do so would be blatantly undemocratic or at the very least downright Canadian. If Mr. Karzai suspended the legislature on a whim, we might be forced to ask the question why Canadians are dying to bring democracy to that country.
Stephen Harper doesn't have that problem. Our Parliament has been suspended for no other reason than the Prime Minister simply can't be bothered with the relentless checks and balances that democracy affords us. He doesn't want to have to stand in the House of Commons and hear anyone question him on any subject. I don't blame him. Parliament is filled with jackals, opportunists and boors. The problem is, like it or not, they were elected.
I also don't blame the Prime Minister for wanting to keep his ministers out of the spotlight. This is a man who could argue that he is Canada's greenest PM simply because he's the only one who has gone out of his way to give potted plants key portfolios.
The problem is, he is the one who appointed cabinet and like it or not, they are supposed to be accountable. A minister's job is not to hide in his or her riding; it is to be accountable in Ottawa – or at least that was the promise.
This Prime Minister has gone from the promise of an open, accessible and accountable government to a government that is simply closed.
It is too bad that prorogation isn't something that our soldiers had in their arsenal. When faced with the order to head out on a foot patrol in the Panjwai district of southern Afghanistan, to risk their lives to bring democracy to that place, wouldn't it be nice if they could simply prorogue and roll over and go back to sleep? Soldiers don't get that luxury. That is afforded only to the people who ultimately order them to walk down those dangerous dusty roads in the first place.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
The 'REVOLUTION' is on!
As of this writing, over 70,000 people have joined the Facebook group against Harper's proroguing of parliament. The REVOLUTION is on!
I can't believe the justifiable anger oozing out of some of the comments being made here...
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?v=wall&gid=260348091419
It makes for some real good reading, and I just can't get enough of it! To finally hear people saying en mass some of what I have been saying for quite sometime now on this blog, is both encouraging, refreshing and invigorating. It seems as though people all at once have woken up to the very real threat that Harper and his conservatives represent to our people, our country and our democracy.
Mass demonstrations are planned and talk is already underway for an immediate election (after the Governor General's Throne speech) to remove these guys from power, and from doing any more harm to our country than what they have already done.
The Revolution I have been calling for seems to be on its way. And it is about bloody time! Viva La Revolution!!!
Now, if we can get rid of the conservative government here in Alberta, maybe then this province and country will have a chance... Or, as I put it in a post to another blog earlier today...
Harper and his nutcase conservatives (Reform/Alliance) have done enough harm to this great country, just as Bush and the Republicans have done in the States. The people there and the people here have had enough (and seen enough) damage done because of these people and their fundamentally flawed, failed and self-serving ideology.
Being red in a sea of blue here in Alberta makes one, at times, feel lonely. But today, I feel there is hope that we all can soon move forward again, as proud Albertans and Canadians, having lived through and survived the tyranny and despotism which threatened to destroy our country and great nation.
In the meantime, "I love the smell of napalm in the morning." :-)
UPDATE: Watch this video for an excellent analysis of Harper's cynical... "debasement of our parliamentary system which is based on the principle of responsible government. The executive has to maintain the confidence of the popularly elected House of Commons. And what you have here is an executive which is deciding, determining when the House of Commons is going to meet. Which is his prerogative, but I think he's been abusing it. And proroguing parliament twice in two years...which kills every single piece of legislation, every debate, all the work that has gone on in this parliament is all dead now and all has to be reintroduced again and we have to have three readings of every bill, it has to go to the senate, it has to be reviewed by committees... all that is dead. And that indicates that the government isn't particularly interested in its legislative agenda." - Nelson Wiseman (CBC News)
http://www.cbc.ca/video/news/player.html?clipid=1373034349
A conservative government is an organized hypocrisy.
I can't believe the justifiable anger oozing out of some of the comments being made here...
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?v=wall&gid=260348091419
It makes for some real good reading, and I just can't get enough of it! To finally hear people saying en mass some of what I have been saying for quite sometime now on this blog, is both encouraging, refreshing and invigorating. It seems as though people all at once have woken up to the very real threat that Harper and his conservatives represent to our people, our country and our democracy.
Mass demonstrations are planned and talk is already underway for an immediate election (after the Governor General's Throne speech) to remove these guys from power, and from doing any more harm to our country than what they have already done.
The Revolution I have been calling for seems to be on its way. And it is about bloody time! Viva La Revolution!!!
Now, if we can get rid of the conservative government here in Alberta, maybe then this province and country will have a chance... Or, as I put it in a post to another blog earlier today...
Harper and his nutcase conservatives (Reform/Alliance) have done enough harm to this great country, just as Bush and the Republicans have done in the States. The people there and the people here have had enough (and seen enough) damage done because of these people and their fundamentally flawed, failed and self-serving ideology.
Being red in a sea of blue here in Alberta makes one, at times, feel lonely. But today, I feel there is hope that we all can soon move forward again, as proud Albertans and Canadians, having lived through and survived the tyranny and despotism which threatened to destroy our country and great nation.
In the meantime, "I love the smell of napalm in the morning." :-)
UPDATE: Watch this video for an excellent analysis of Harper's cynical... "debasement of our parliamentary system which is based on the principle of responsible government. The executive has to maintain the confidence of the popularly elected House of Commons. And what you have here is an executive which is deciding, determining when the House of Commons is going to meet. Which is his prerogative, but I think he's been abusing it. And proroguing parliament twice in two years...which kills every single piece of legislation, every debate, all the work that has gone on in this parliament is all dead now and all has to be reintroduced again and we have to have three readings of every bill, it has to go to the senate, it has to be reviewed by committees... all that is dead. And that indicates that the government isn't particularly interested in its legislative agenda." - Nelson Wiseman (CBC News)
http://www.cbc.ca/video/news/player.html?clipid=1373034349
A conservative government is an organized hypocrisy.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Harper, you can run, but you can't hide
Let your voices be heard. Join the Facebook Revolution against Harper and his conservatives proroguing parliament.
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?v=wall&gid=260348091419#
Canadians United Against Stephen Harper
UPDATE: Below is my letter to my local MP. Did you send yours?
From: John Prince [mailto:johnprince@shaw.ca]
Sent: January-05-10 4:12 PM
To: menzies.t@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Get back to work and face the music like a man... like I know you are.
Dear Ted,
Proroguing parliament is not the way to run a government or a country. We have serious issues that need to be dealt with, such as the economy and unemployment... and my favourite, ‘white-collar crime’.
Going on vacation may be find for you and the other fat cats in Ottawa, but it does nothing for ordinary Canadians. Get back to work and deal with our problems! Otherwise, you will soon find you do not have a job to go to... like some of the rest of us.
We’re not ‘no-good bastards’ and we’re not stupid either, yet many of us are losing our homes due to no fault of our own. We’re mad as hell and we’re not going to take it anymore. So you and the others better smarten up and get with it, otherwise things are going to start getting pretty ugly... and mean.
I know you to be a good man but your leader and party are dragging you down. I am writing to you to ask that you ignore Harper's request to prorogue parliament and attend anyway. It is important to me that you attend and I look forward to seeing that you do.
Sincerely,
John Prince
Crowsnest Pass, AB
Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it whether it exists or not, diagnosing it incorrectly, and applying the wrong remedy.
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?v=wall&gid=260348091419#
Canadians United Against Stephen Harper
UPDATE: Below is my letter to my local MP. Did you send yours?
From: John Prince [mailto:johnprince@shaw.ca]
Sent: January-05-10 4:12 PM
To: menzies.t@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Get back to work and face the music like a man... like I know you are.
Dear Ted,
Proroguing parliament is not the way to run a government or a country. We have serious issues that need to be dealt with, such as the economy and unemployment... and my favourite, ‘white-collar crime’.
Going on vacation may be find for you and the other fat cats in Ottawa, but it does nothing for ordinary Canadians. Get back to work and deal with our problems! Otherwise, you will soon find you do not have a job to go to... like some of the rest of us.
We’re not ‘no-good bastards’ and we’re not stupid either, yet many of us are losing our homes due to no fault of our own. We’re mad as hell and we’re not going to take it anymore. So you and the others better smarten up and get with it, otherwise things are going to start getting pretty ugly... and mean.
I know you to be a good man but your leader and party are dragging you down. I am writing to you to ask that you ignore Harper's request to prorogue parliament and attend anyway. It is important to me that you attend and I look forward to seeing that you do.
Sincerely,
John Prince
Crowsnest Pass, AB
Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it whether it exists or not, diagnosing it incorrectly, and applying the wrong remedy.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
The Christmas hampers are gone, and the poor are still with us
Efforts underway to help poor people in Stettler
By Paul Cowley - Red Deer Advocate
Efforts are underway in Stettler to create a fund to help those struggling to make ends meet or even pay for critical medications...
Are we doing enough here in the Crowsnest Pass to help our poor? Do we care? I know we care at Christmas with our FCSS food hampers and such, but what about the rest of the year? Do we have any supports in place for emergency help for people?
Lots of questions, I know, but here is one more. Stettler being relatively the same size as the Pass is trying to do something about it i.e. helping their poor... are we?
The gap between the wealthiest and the poorest in Canada has become greater than at any time since Imperial plutocratic Rome.
Every night, one out of every six (1/7) children go to bed hungry in this country.
By Paul Cowley - Red Deer Advocate
Efforts are underway in Stettler to create a fund to help those struggling to make ends meet or even pay for critical medications...
Are we doing enough here in the Crowsnest Pass to help our poor? Do we care? I know we care at Christmas with our FCSS food hampers and such, but what about the rest of the year? Do we have any supports in place for emergency help for people?
Lots of questions, I know, but here is one more. Stettler being relatively the same size as the Pass is trying to do something about it i.e. helping their poor... are we?
The gap between the wealthiest and the poorest in Canada has become greater than at any time since Imperial plutocratic Rome.
Every night, one out of every six (1/7) children go to bed hungry in this country.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Happy New Year!
Knowing as I do that 2009 was not a very good year for many of us, here's hoping 2010 brings nothing but the best.
Have a good one everybody!
A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions.
Many people worry, and suffer, because they have been involved in so many bad things in their lives. In truth, though, good things often happen in spite of our wishes, and sometimes even in opposition to our wishes, and often after our excitement and suffering over unworthy things.
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