“They” vs. “Us”

The other day I read Bud's editorial in the Herald and was struck by his comment about the differences in what on-line blogs and his newspaper were predicting, with respect to our election results. How could two different mediums get it so wrong... or so right, as the case may be?

I got thinking about this as our on-line polls (Dean & mine) clearly showed the gang of four being the favourites, but as we all know this was not the case after election night? Far from it!

The only thing I can surmise is that there is a cultural divide in our community. We have a large segment of our community that are not well educated who rely on the Herald for not only their local news but on 'guidance' with respect to what their position should be on any particular issue. Then we have those who are more informed and worldly, who use different sources, and see things from different angles, who for all intents and purposes find themselves in the minority.

As I have said before the establishment who hold their noses with respect to the Herald never the less use their willing accomplice, this paper, to reach the ill-informed to push their agenda, which they have successfully done again with this past election.

The big question 'progressives' have to deal with if they ever hope to really change things here in the Pass is how to counter this obstructionist force... this 'rag' of a newspaper that does more of a disservice to this community than a service? How do we reach the ill-informed and misguided who presently look at the Herald as their 'Bible'?

I leave this to my readers to discuss...

... before blogs existed there was only one source for news; the main stream media. There was not a built in system of checks and balances. One of the greatest opportunities we have when collecting information is to use different sources, and see things from different angles.

Blogs and traditional news sources provide a very distinct “they” vs. “us” mentality – with blogs being “us” and MSM being “they”. I do not see this changing for some time.

The press serves him who owns it. It does not spread “free” opinion – it generates it.

Where Do We Go From Here?

For me that is easy... anywhere but here. The Crowsnest Pass offers no real jobs or opportunities, as the few that do come available are always swallowed up by establishment family, friends or their cronies. At least that has been the case for the past two decades or so under the leadership (sic) of Irwin who did his best at keeping this place a closed society, who catered to the rich and well-to-do at the expense of everybody else.

What will Decoux and the new council bring us? Will it be a more open society that embraces all, or will it be just more of the same old same old? Who knows? What I do know is if any thing does happen it won't be any time soon, which brings little comfort for those in need... now.

Knowing you ain't going anywhere fast gives one time to think. I'm thinking people here need to go into hibernation for the winter like the bears will soon be doing and come up for air in the spring, which should give our new council enough time to have got their feet wet, and maybe even knowing how to swim a bit? Then we will see what 'tiny steps' they are capable of?

In the meantime, the exodus continues...


It is a great ability to be able to conceal one's ability.

GOODBYE, MR. TULLY... HELLO, CROWSNEST PASS

Longtime director of public works for Solvang, CA., Tully Clifford, is saying his goodbyes and preparing to head north to the 'beautiful' Crowsnest Pass to take on his duties as our new CAO.

Read about it here in The Santa Ynez Valley Journal.

The answer lies within

I've searched for the answers so much of my life

From teachers I placed high above me

Trying on wings that simply weren't mine

In hopes that the winds would come lift me


I've pored through the books, through new and old

The rituals came and they went

The talisman's power in time left me cold

And none of it seemed heaven sent


The answer lies within, my friend

The answer lies within

The mountain can't hold it

The teachers don't own it

The answer lies within


One morning, at odds with the world I had made

I stood at my mirror in tears

But I suddenly saw that the face that stared back

Held no trace of the hunger or fears


I saw at that moment, so brilliantly clear

All the wisdom my life had collected

The student was ready, the teacher was here

In a way I had never expected


We balance our lives between ignorance and bliss

With a prayer divine wisdom will find us

And yet our greatest sin is our fear to exist

In the knowledge that the Divine lives within us


So I don't need the mountains, the books or wings

And I don't need somebody to save me

No, all I need is to claim all the answers within

And to follow them clearly and bravely


The answer lies within, my friend

The answer lies within


Michael B. Putman and Catherine Wilson

For The Record

Since election day I have seen an increase in visitors to my blog like I have never seen before with some of these visitors posting comments for the first time. In this regard, I think some are under the wrong perception as to what this blog is all about. It is not about me being held up to a higher standard because I ran for office.

"What is your blog all about, then?"

It's about me, voicing my opinions and beliefs on societal issues, both here in the Crowsnest Pass and in the world around us, based on my acquired knowledge and life experiences. I don't ask for people to agree with me, nor do I expect it. That is not the intent behind this blog. If anything, it is to make people 'think' about what is and what could be, if only you believed, as I do, that all things are possible. In other words, I am an incurable idealist and somewhat of a romantic.

My point is, this blog is my 'personal blog'. It is the tool I use to maintain my sanity in a world gone mad. It is where I 'vent' my anger and frustration and share my feelings and my thoughts. Like Kafka's character in the 'Metamorphosis' it is my dark room of despair and anger, at a world which does not care.

Which brings me to, who am I? Am I like a caterpillar that turns into a butterfly? I like to think so. I like to think that over the years, 'I' transformed myself into who I am today. I AM THAT I AM!

My early beginnings were hard, and one's I do not talk about. Let's just say, I had a hard life as many people have. They say the best tippers in restaurants and bars and such, are poor people, because they know what it is like to 'struggle' every day. Having been poor and with a life time of struggles and experiences of trying to stay alive, while living life 'My Way' in today's 'suffocating' society, I now have an opportunity through blogging to express myself and voice my 'outrage' at the injustices and inequalities I have seen and experienced, or have knowledge of. Or simply, have great feelings of 'empathy' towards.

I am a rebel without a cause, who like Marlon Brando in the ‘The Wild One’ when asked, “What are you rebelling against, Johnny?” simply says, "Whatever you’ve got."


Seemingly insurmountable obstacles confront all world reformers, when pure idea meets the opposing force in the inertia of the human mind and the resistance of entrenched power. It represents a revolution of the dynamic against the static, of higher values against pseudo-values, of freedom against slavery, and it is not limited to one time in history, nor to mankind as a whole, but occurs repeatedly in the life of individual man.

Honouring The Democratic Process in the Crowsnest Pass

Now that I have removed around 1900 daggers from my back, I'm ready to kick ass again here in the land of the Prince. :-)

Got a request yesterday from Christopher White from the Crowsnest Promoter who wants to do something similar to the Q&A's candidates submitted to the newspapers here during the election, but dealing instead not with Q&A's but with the thyme "Honouring The Democratic Process in the CNP". He is asking each candidate who ran to give him their thoughts, in 300 or so words.

At first, I thought he was putting me on. After all, anyone wanting to avoid my supposed anger would be best to avoid asking me a question like that, right? :-)

Anyhow, once I found out he was serious I thought about it... and thought about it... and thought about it. Until I decided "the hell with this, just sit down and write". Which is what I am doing now.

"Honouring The Democratic Process" WOW!!! Where do I begin?...

If the fix is always in is it still democratic?... If all you get here is decades of autocratic rule by the elite (Tossing out one set of bums for new ones just keeps giving us more of the same bums with different faces, right?) is that democratic?... "Where is democracy, for I think she has hid her face here in the Pass, for I do not see her?" Instead, I see a game played out over and over again, election after election with the same people working the polling stations. That game is the 'facade and illusion' of what is called the 'democratic process' here in the Crowsnest Pass:

• 300 plus people from a population of around 5850 attend a forum only one week after nomination day and a full three weeks prior to the election, answer 3 questions followed by a closing speech of 1-1/2 minutes. Chamber of Commerce provides 200 Candidate Packages containing CV's
  
• Q&A's in our local newspapers
  
• newspaper election ads
• election lawn signs scattered throughout our community of communities
• Meet & Greets by some candidates that for the most part are poorly attended

From this the people made their decisions? I think not! I think the majority of people relied on others to tell them how to vote, instead of doing their own homework and then exercising their own individual decision making process. In other words, most people here go along like sheep voting for who 'others' tell them to. Which explains how 73% of voters landed up voting in a Mayor who is a virtual unknown, having no council or municipal government experience, while at the same time voting out the gang of four (new school) and voting in a new gang of four (old school). It seems here in the Pass, "where all think alike, no one thinks very much".

We are a closed society where money, power and 'history' (family) dictate how things are decided around here.

If and when things start to not go their way they release their dogs of war (The 'rag')... "For them democracy is no more than a bright tinsel wrapping to be torn off the moment it poses any real constraint around their freedom." At the end of the day, the elite give marching orders to their individual community 'mine bosses' on who to vote for, and the message is relayed down the line. VOILA! DEMOCRACY IN ACTION IN THE CROWSNEST PASS!!

"Honouring The Democratic Process"... Yes Christopher, I think you ask too much when you ask me this?

UPDATE (Nov.06): For more on the above post with respect to the Promoter's article, you can go here.


Democracy cannot be advancing if its parts are autocratic.

Blogging Update and Job Search Notification

As a Realtor, and recently as a Mayoral candidate, I found myself spending a lot of time behind a computer and therefore was able to find time to do quite a bit of blogging. Now, however, with the municipal election over with and with my recent decision to not renew my Realtor's license because of the sorry state of the real estate market these days, I hereby give warning that my future blogging might soon become 'sporadic' at best, as I search for and eventually find gainful employment so that I can put food on the table.

With the above in mind, if any of my readers know of any job opportunities I would appreciate you letting me know about them, either through this blog, by email johnprince@shaw.ca or by calling me direct at 403-564-4518. Thank you!


People might not get all they work for in this world, but they must certainly work for all they get.

Muncipal Election 2010: Closing Comments

Now I know what Noah must have felt like, as I have been flooded with comments. Most have been of the negative, hostile type, revelling in what they see as their victory over the great evil one... moi. :-) These sheep (cowards) make me laugh as they haven't got a clue on what it takes to be a man and stand up against the odds for what you believe in, despite the mob, the machine, etc., i.e. "no guts, no glory, boys!". But what would most of you at 'the rag' know about that, right? :-o To these people I have only this to say, 'now that you have hung me, you can KISS MY ASS!' :-)

Now that we have gotten the unpleasantness over with and dispensed with the 'rabble' it is time to move on. In this regard, I wish Mayor, Council and Administration all the best and will be watching to see that is what they deliver. I sincerely thank my supporters (even those who turned on me this time) and want everyone to know I hold no malice, although I am deeply disappointed in the shallowness and stupidity of people who can be taken in so easily and completely by the powers that be.

I guess this community is masochistic to the extreme, but I am not. I will not run again. I wash my hands of this community's politics. For as it has been said, "In a time of universal deceit, telling the truth is a revolutionary act", for which this community is obviously still not ready to deal with, and accept. I waste my time no more!

Being the only mayoral candidate that laid it all on the line by giving people this blog (warts and all) the majority chose instead, in essence, a relatively unknown individual based on a 1-1/2 minute closing speech and a couple of answers to questions posed at an election forum?

The above goes to show that honesty and forthrightness is not always the best policy when it comes to politics in the Crowsnest Pass.


The public will believe anything, so long as it is not founded on truth.

It's déjà vu all over again

If there was any doubt about the stranglehold the establishment here have on this community with their 'mine boss' influence over our seniors and their families and relatives who make up the majority of our population, it should be clear by now that they are back in control.

They continue to allow new faces (newcomers) to make up their councils but never with a majority and never the head honcho job. Let them work their hearts out for this community and then dump them like yesterday's garbage, seems to be the Modus operandi here.

I think we can expect with Decoux (Irwin), Lonsbury, Gail and Mitchell that things will stay pretty much the way they have in the past, including (if rumours are true) the re-opening of the CLC (kiss goodbye any multi-faceted community centre with an indoor swimming pool). If history repeats itself (like I'm sure it will) the new guys (Saje, Gallant and Saindon) who can bring to the table innovative progressive approaches and ideas will land up spinning their wheels for an uncaring and ungrateful electorate.

The end result of this election is that we can expect more of the same old, same old except with a new bunch (including the Mayor) having no council experience, no municipal experience, joined by a new CAO and new Public Works Superintendent. Larry Mitchell, with his three years of council experience, will now be the senior statesman on council, and our 'corporate memory'. It can't get any worse for the 1/3 of our population made up of newbies hoping to see positive change and a brighter and more inclusive future for them and their families, and for those on the margins of society who have been disenfranchised and are living lifes of quiet desperation.

Because I used the term WTF somebody in my previous post said I should be a more gracious loser? I got news for you, it is not I who have lost, but this community. When I leave it, I will be going to a brighter future, whereas you will be still stuck here in a time warp going nowhere.


Nobody got anywhere in the world by simply being content.

What Happened???

It's just past midnight. The municipal election results have been 'sporadic' at best but the last results that I did see made no sense to me? Can anybody explain WTF happened? Bruce Decoux won by a landslide, with all the incumbents being wiped out, including Irwin and Dean, with even Gail Sygutek not even coming close? I don't get it? It just doesn't make any sense? How could so many of us get it so wrong?

I'm going to bed. Maybe in the morning I can make some sense of all this but right now I can't. Good Night!

Today Is The Day - Get Out & Vote!

In less than one hour the polls will open and you will have your chance to decide the future of the Crowsnest Pass. I hope you exercise your democratic right and get out and vote... and get out the vote, too (because you know the establishment will! We need to, also!!). The Pass needs change... be the change you want to see in the Pass!

I see from those I've talked to lately that the old guard (the establishment) are beside themselves here, worrying at the possibility of losing power and control over municipal government, and the way things are run around here. The way things have been run around here for some time, of course, has been to their exclusive benefit. In reaping the annual harvests, while leaving the rest of us with the bill, the debt, and nothing to show for our labour. Everything has been run for their benefit only, at the expense to everyone else in our community. And that is why we have such a serious economic and social deficit, having both a woeful lack of economic opportunities and social support systems for both our young and old. Their young and their old are taken care of, but the rest of us can fend for ourselves, and if that means having to leave our community for other parts due to the lack of jobs, opportunities, affordable/senior housing, etc., etc., then too bad... see ya! "And the beat goes on..."

Or does it? Does it have too? I don't think it has to! In fact, I see a golden opportunity to change things here for the better for all residents and not just for the privileged few. That opportunity is here today when we all have a chance to change things from status quo, to 'opportunity is knocking' for one and all. People don't have to settle for crumbs when they have the power to change things so that they are masters once again in their own home. That power is your vote. Use it!! Vote in a Mayor and Council that has...

RESPECT for TAXPAYERS!

Today is the day, vote JOHN PRINCE For MAYOR


NOTE: For those who would like to follow the election results as they come out, you can do so here at the Municipal website...

Unofficial Election Results: October 18, 2010


One man with courage makes a majority.

Bridgecreek/Irwin Legacy: "We've Been Had, Boys!"

One of my fellow bloggers has just brought to my attention a news story in yesterday's Lethbridge Herald appropriately titled Dream Interrupted about the Bridgecreek/River Run fiasco.

This story blew me away, as it no doubt will you. Besides the obvious, two things in particular I found to be both disturbing and perplexing. First, why does it always take an outside source to tell us what is really going on here in our own community? Is it as I have said in the past that one media outlet is in the back pocket of the Mayor and the BBoys, while the other would rather deal in fluff stories than to take a chance on giving us the full meal deal and risk the wrath of Doctor Love and his establishment friends? As I have said before our local media do this community more of a disservice than a service and therefore are a sham and a disgrace to us all. Better to tell us the truth and let us deal with it as adults than to constantly paint a picture (Potemkin village) that no one believes, such as "our good doctor can never do any wrong", its always the other guy(s) who are the evil doers and at fault.

Secondly, how is it credible or plausible that our long-time serving Mayor who was Mayor at the time of the 1988 Report and during the time of the WA Environmental Services of Lethbridge and Calgary Study in 2007-08, as well as being behind all the dealings and approvals of the Bridgecreek Developers from their inception here in the Pass to the present time, not know what was going on? Including the fact millions of tons of coal and dangerous substances would make this site both economically and environmentally unsuitable for human habitation?

To think today, we have a Mayor who is presently running for a councillor's seat on the pretext he wants to be the 'corporate' or 'institutional memory' for our community, claiming in part, that he knows where all our infrastructure is including the possibility of waterlines underneath the newly proposed Food Bank site that he opposes, knows nothing of these reports and the history behind this site that clearly shows we in this community have been had and will soon be on the hook for millions, while also making us the laughing stock of our region if not our province, is to put it in my wife's words, scandalous.

We need a shake up in this community from the top down that can only come from an 'independent' Mayor who as Joe Grigel said in his It's Time For A Change piece in this week's Promoter...

One candidate appears to be a stand in for the old regime. Another is a member of the opposing faction. The remaining candidate offers a new vision and is dedicated in taking the Crowsnest Pass in a new direction.

The new direction I propose to take this community in is in having an honest and open government which treats its residents as adults, and not children... or fools. And in doing so, lays everything on the table in an open and forthright manner so that decisions can be made based on the facts and evidence presented before everyone, and not secret backroom deals that leave taxpayers on the hook, while allowing the unscrupulous to laugh at us all the way to the bank.

We can do better than this...

On October 18, vote JOHN PRINCE For MAYOR


The country had fallen into a state of moral putrefaction, with corruption running rampant throughout the government ranks.

WE ARE FAMILY!

Been down with the flu the last 2-3 days and feeling pretty shitty, but last night's Meet & Greet lifted my spirits up tremendously, and today I'm feeling much better.

I've been told by people who have been following the Meet & Greets that mine was very well attended compared to the others that have been held. Hopefully, this is a sign of positive things to come? I know I certainly 'enjoyed' talking with friends and neighbours, as well as to those I only met for the first time last night. Discussions were lively and at times entertaining with everybody taking part and getting involved. It was great to get so much feedback on the issues and concerns residents in our community want addressed. The overall theme I thought was how everybody seemed to be on the same page or wave length with respect to wanting change, and the excitement people displayed at the prospect of not only finally getting real change, but of having a new Mayor and council taking us in a new positive and progressive direction.

I guess some of you are thinking, why did he have only one Meet & Greet, and in Bellevue? The last part of that question is easiest to answer. Its because, Bellevue is my hometown, which is part of the Pass. We are one community so it should not matter where within that community one holds a Meet & Greet. Don't you think?

Feeling one needs to go to every part of of our community feeds into and perpetuates our separateness, rather than the oneness we all share. After all, we are family, a community of communities that make a whole called the Crowsnest Pass. Therefore, we need more coming together, like the other day at Thanksgiving where family and friends gathered in love and harmony, and at some point, I'm sure, talked politics and our upcoming election. At which point, many I believe, like at my Meet & Greet were in agreement that it's time for change and a new direction, with leadership that is 'independent' and who will work for the best interests of all our communities, and all its people. That person is me!

On October 18, vote JOHN PRINCE For MAYOR

If elected, I look forward to serving you as your new Mayor and doing everything I can in making our community the best it can be!


We are confronted with insurmountable opportunities.

IT’S TIME FOR A CHANGE

Voters in the Crowsnest Pass will soon decide which direction the Municipality will take for the next 3 years. Will it be more of the same old politics, or will it be a new vision implemented by a new Mayor and a different looking Council? If things do remain the same it will likely be for way more than 3 years, since the back of any future serious opposition will be broken. The same people that created the present gridlock will be shuffled back into the same deck. There will be little change in how the Crowsnest Pass is managed.

The race for Mayor is interesting. One candidate appears to be a stand in for the old regime. Another is a member of the opposing faction. The remaining candidate offers a new vision and is dedicated in taking the Crowsnest Pass in a new direction.

There are times when a bold approach and taking a new direction is required. This is one of those times. For Mayor the choice is clear - John Prince is a person with the vision and the desire to get the Crowsnest Pass back on track.

As the new Mayor, John will need the cooperation of a Council that can check its baggage at the door and get on with the business of doing what is right for the residents of the Crowsnest Pass. One looks at Pincher Creek and wonders why all the new stores, motels, Senior Living complex, etc. It has to be related to a smoothly functioning local government that works together and has the interests of its residents in mind.

The Crowsnest Pass deserves better than the local government that it has endured for the last few years. On October 18 get out and vote for John Prince for Mayor, and vote in a new Council that can work with him to get the job done.

Joe Grigel


Note: The above paid endorsement of my candidacy was in this week's Crowsnest Promoter newspaper. Thanks Joe! Your support is much appreciated!!


When a thing has been said and well, have no scruple. Take it and copy it.

REMINDER: Meet & Greet Mayoral Candidate John Prince

Just a reminder that today is my Meet & Greet. Please join me for refreshments and a chance to talk about the election issues. This will give you a chance to share with me your opinions, ideas and advice. Please bring family and friends – I look forward to seeing you there.

Meet & Greet
John Prince

Bellecrest Seniors

Friday, Oct. 15th

6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

PRINCE

For Mayor

POLLS, POLLS EVERYWHERE A POLL

Below is my response to Dean Ward's recent post with respect to polls:

Anon @5:33

I think if you inverted the results for Salus and Prince, this then would probably be more reflective of what will be the true end results on election night.

Dean,
I’m thinking this poll is a joke perpetrated by you and your gang of four who are desperately hoping you can fool the public into putting you all back in. For your information, the vast majority of people don't even blog, so these polls are meaningless; with the Herald's being somewhat questionable if not downright fraudulent, considering they typically have only 25-50 votes on their weekly polls. Suddenly, this one poll shows almost 200? With the long shot leading the pack? Ya, right! As a result, this post of yours raises questions as to your true intentions, integrity, good character, and most of all, your sound judgement.

Are these poll posts (some of which have not even closed yet) by you, signs of desperation? i.e. the gang of four would like us to think they are shoo-ins?...and therefore, these are the people one should vote for? Well like they say, it ain't over until the fat lady sings, and there might be some surprises for those who put too much reliance on polls to prop themselves up, only like Humpty Dumpty to have a great fall. Better to wait for election day boys, before declaring yourselves the winners, would be a more prudent and honest way of allowing democracy to work, instead of relying on ‘dirty tricks’ or ‘the fix’.

I don’t know who is worse, the Herald with their phony polls, or the gang of four who manipulate them for their own advantage? Either way, change is needed from what we have come to expect as the status quo here in the Pass, and on Oct. 18th, I hope we see it.

On October 18, vote JOHN PRINCE For MAYOR


Statistics: The only science that enables different experts using the same figures to draw different conclusions.

MESSAGE TO PASS RESIDENTS

On Oot.18th, vote in a Council that will work towards solving the problems facing the Pass, and not one that wants to continue the Hatfield and McCoy battle. Also, vote in a Mayor that is independent and stands for change, and not one that recycles the present agenda, either as a stand in or who is part of the present problem.
- Joe Grigel, Bellevue

See full newspaper ad here.

On October 18, vote JOHN PRINCE For MAYOR


Taking action leads to results; not taking action only leads to feelings of hopelessness – and helplessness.

Municipal Election Less Than a Week Away!

With just days to go before local residents go to the polls to vote in a new Mayor and council, one has to wonder how it will all turn out come next Monday? We know for certain we will have a new Mayor but at this time we do not know what the make up of our next council will be. A clean sweep with all new faces, all/some incumbents with a smattering of a few new faces, is the big question?

Having an election forum closer to nomination day than to election day, along with the media in control since then, having 3-4 editions to push their agenda (propaganda, phony polls, etc.) and their candidate(s), takes the 'fizzle' out of our local elections, doesn't it? The power of the people here in the Crowsnest Pass has been, once again, circumvented by the powers that be, and their local media. By the time election day roles around it has been transformed into an afterthought, an almost grudging obligation (instead of an exercise of a truly democratic free will) with many residents having been sufficiently indoctrinated as to who they should vote for and who they shouldn't, if they want to remain part of the in-crowd, and not be ostracized for daring to have opinions of their own. I've found in past elections that have been 'managed' like this current one has been that many people are like sheep voting for those they have been told to by their 'superiors', the establishment types that are in the know on these matters, and therefore, whose advice and opinions should (better) be followed. The old mine boss scenario that many in this community have still not broken free of, or gotten away from.

But like they say, "the times, they are a changing". We'll soon see if they have changed sufficiently to give us real leadership, having vision with ideas and the drive and determination to see them through, that can change the downward slide direction we have been on for far too long. Or will it be more of the same old, same old? Time will tell in a few more days whether we will be moving forwards, going backwards, or left standing still.

Remember, for forward direction and a Municipal Hall that helps us all...

John’s vision for a prosperous CNP includes partnerships across public and private sectors to help sustain and innovate our economy, environment and communities.

On October 18, vote JOHN PRINCE For MAYOR


Nobody got anywhere in the world by simply being content.

Pass Herald 2010 Election Questionnaire

Below are questions I received from the Pass Herald and my answers to those questions:

1. What specific issues or projects do you feel it is most important for the Municipality to focus on in the next three years?
Reduce spending, grow our economy and deal aggressively and pro-actively with our social deficit.

2. How would you rate the current state of the Municipality, both economically and politically?
Unfortunately, we have had a decade or more of stagnation and decline, seen our reserves depleted and debt load substantially increased. Lack of leadership having a vision and plan and ‘gotcha’ politics has dominated the political arena, resulting in our now finding ourselves with serious problems and challenges that will probably take us all more than one term to put right.

3. What specific strategies do you feel should be employed to increase the local tax base?
We need to remove the barriers to growth by tearing down the firewalls that have long held back our community. Put up the ‘open for business’ signs and encourage and promote different types of sustainable recreation/tourism initiatives and their related businesses, as well as doing what we can to attract good paying high-tech and light industry and manufacturing jobs. In other words, we need to grow business here. Hospitality, Tourism and Small Businesses related to this sector would be a natural fit, and is long overdue. This is an area that I have both practical and educational experience in and that I will endeavour to work towards to create the jobs and opportunities our people need, want, and deserve. This is something that I think is definitely doable, with a like-minded council.

4. Short of increasing the tax base, what would you do to promote the continuation of municipal services without dramatic tax increases? Are there any areas where you feel the Municipality should spend less or more than it currently does?
Mayor, council and administration must review services that are now provided by the Municipality and see if there are any that can be reduced or eliminated to reduce costs. This means prioritizing the needs of our residents and determining if the Municipality is doing the right things, and doing things right. Effective management practices that are designed to save us money have to become a top priority. Not spending money we don’t have is another one. There will also have to be new and innovative financial approaches developed for the long term to lessen the requirement to fund Municipal operations from the property tax base.
We need to spend more on things that promote this community so we can attract investment, businesses and people. We need to spend less in areas where various entities have other means and ways to supplement their funding, rather than directly through local taxpayers.

On October 18, vote JOHN PRINCE For MAYOR


With realization of one's own potential and self confidence in one's ability, one can build a better world.

Take a Break... Time to refocus with family & friends

Many of you who blog here know Chloe who is a regular contributor and a passionate advocate for investors in the Brigdgecreek disaster, and a strong proponent for good governance here in the Pass. Well, Chloe just sent me a personal message appealing to all candidates in elections here and elsewhere to take a break. Good advice! I'm taking it, and so should you. Happy Thanksgiving to one and all!

... I just wanted to send the message to all candidates across this wonderful country, yes warts and all, that Canada is the best place to live. Please remind them to take time this weekend off the campaign trail to share thanks and spend time with family and friends. Happy Thanksgiving to you and the good folks of CNP. Take care. - Chloe


We are formed and molded by our thoughts. Those whose minds are shaped by selfless thoughts give joy when they speak or act. Joy follows them like a shadow that never leaves them.

Crowsnest Promoter 2010 Election Questionnaire

Below are questions I received from the Crowsnest Promoter and my answers to those questions:

1. What do you think council’s three top priorities should be for the next term?
Reduce spending, grow our economy and deal aggressively and pro-actively with our social deficit.

2. What specific actions need to be taken to expand our tax base?
We need to remove the barriers to growth by tearing down the firewalls that have long held back our community. Put up the ‘open for business’ signs and encourage and promote different types of sustainable recreation/tourism initiatives and their related businesses, as well as doing what we can to attract good paying high-tech and light industry and manufacturing jobs. In other words, we need to grow business here. Hospitality, Tourism and Small Businesses related to this sector would be a natural fit, and is long overdue. This is an area that I have both practical and educational experience in and that I will endeavour to work towards to create the jobs and opportunities our people need, want, and deserve. This is something that I think is definitely doable, with a like-minded council.

3. Describe your ideal land use plan for both residential and commercial development.
Priority should be given to infill housing rather than helter skelter subdivision developments in the far reaches of our community. Commercial development will primarily take place along our Hwy corridor but each of our small town centers need their share as well, and must be revitalized and supported. But with respect to the Hwy, we must aggressively lobby our provincial government to find out where exactly and when the Hwy #3 realignment is to take place. This is absolutely critical to any future major commercial/industrial developments.

4. The municipality has an $18 million budget. What experience do you have to manage this?
As a former municipal councillor, hotel manager and accountant I bring to the table many years of hands-on practical experience dealing with multi-million dollar budgets.

5. How will you define success for the governance of Crowsnest Pass?
If at the end of our term mayor and council was successful in rebuilding trust in council and our municipal administration, while also being able to deliver on both unity issues and providing fundamental services that people, families and businesses rely on every day in a cost effective manner, while at the same time keeping a lid on taxes and still rebuilding our reserves, then we will have succeeded in making the Crowsnest Pass a more viable, sustainable and livable community. Hopefully, we will also have succeeded in aggressively creating markets for what we have in abundance with respect to what we are able to provide in the areas of recreation, tourism, and small business opportunities.
To me, this is what will spell success and what I will devote myself full-time to delivering, on behalf of the good people of the Crowsnest Pass. Give me a like-minded council and there will be no end to the good we can do!

On October 18, vote JOHN PRINCE For MAYOR


One person with a belief is equal to a force of 99 who have only interests.

Meet & Greet Mayoral Candidate John Prince

Meet & Greet
John Prince

Bellecrest Seniors

Friday, Oct. 15th

6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

PRINCE

For Mayor

To one and all, please join me on Friday, October 15th from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at the Bellecrest Seniors in Bellevue for refreshments and a chance to talk about the election issues. This will give you a chance to share with me your opinions, ideas and advice. Please bring family and friends – I look forward to seeing you there.

Friday Humour - Five Surgeons

Five surgeons are discussing who has the best patients
to operate on........................

The first surgeon says, "I like to see accountants on
my operating table because when you open them,
everything inside is numbered".

The second responds. "Yeah, but you should try
electricians! everything inside them is colour coded."

The third surgeon says, "No, I really think librarians
are the best, everything inside them is in alphabetical
order"..

The fourth surgeon chimes in... "you know, I like
construction workers... those guys always understand
when you have a few parts left over at the end... and
when the job takes longer than you said it would".

But the fifth surgeon shut them all up when he
observed:
"You're all wrong... Politicians are the easiest to
operate on...
There's no guts, no heart, no balls, no brains and no
spine, and the head and the ass are interchangeable"!

REMEMBER THIS WHEN YOU VOTE

Lies Our Media Told You... about my temper

Today, I want to deal with an issue that still seems to be on some people's minds (although the ones who seem to be the most vocal on this issue are mostly seniors who don't know me personally and who probably will never get to see this post because many, unfortunately, are not computer savvy?) with respect to my so-called 'temper'. This of course comes mainly from the Syguatacks & Irwinites crowd.

Imagine my astonishment to find that 10 years later, in some peoples' minds, this is still an issue even after my having told people at the election forum in 2007 that, "I am like a banana, the older I get, the softer I get." :-)

Now seriously, this can only be an issue for one of two reasons: 1. either I made quite an impression on vast multitudes of people way back then, or more likely 2. the media (Syguatack) did a wonderful job of painting me with a certain brush (black).

Let's deal with the first one. I don't think I made an impression on people at all with respect to my temper. I believe my temper is no different than yours or most other peoples' in that if your buttons are constantly pushed by those who have been entrusted with that job and the referee (mayor) fails to act in a responsible and professional manner, and instead turns a wilful blind eye to what is taking place on the field (council chambers), while at the same time giving penalties to one side only, I challenge anyone with any degree of backbone and integrity to not lose it now and again. But does that make my temper any different from yours, or other peoples'? I think not.

With respect to the second reason. It baffles me how a sitting councillor was able for so long to use her newspaper as a 'political tool' to smear anyone who stood up against her, or her boss (the Mayor), whether that be Sam Marra, David Blacklock, David (Choppy) Cole, Jiri Stolarik, Jackie Ham, Dean Ward, Ian MacLeod, John Salus, or me? And that this community allowed it go on for so long, with now a second generation following in Mommy Dearests footsteps. This lady would constantly rant and rave, throw temper tantrums that I'm sure were the originating meanings for what we now know as 'shock and awe', and attack anybody who didn't agree with her, and who didn't go along with John's program/agenda. But somehow her temper is never mentioned or remembered? But mine is? Ah!, the power of the media to brainwash the gullible and the naive.

So there you have it. Do I have a temper, sure I do. Just like you do too. Is it as bad as it has been portrayed by those who own the presses? No it is not. Do we have a newspaper in our community that bully's and intimidates people in order to push their own agenda? You bet we do! Do we have a Mayor and former councillor who are now for the most part discredited because of their past actions and for how they have run this community into the ground? Again, you bet we do on that one too!

But still, there are some in this community who still buy into the 'propaganda' perpetuated by these same people whose reputations lie in ruins? To these people I have only this to say, which comes from my man Tommy Douglas...

"Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me."

The other matter I would like to deal with while we're here is the one on how some people who do not know me personally and come to this blog might be interpreting the tone and meaning of what I say here as being too direct, forthright, honest, blunt, hard hitting, lacking subtlety and finesse. You are right, if this is what you think. However, in the real world once you get to meet me and know me you will soon discover that I am a warm and caring individual, who is passionate about life, cares deeply about things that matter and therefore, suffers both ignorant fools and pompous pseudointellectuals with equal disdain. I think what I say and say what I think both on my blog and in person. In other words, what you see is what you get. But in person you do get a warmer, softer, gentler and kinder person who is personable, sincere and approachable. Give it a try next time you see me, and remember, don't always believe what you read in the newspapers.

On October 18, vote JOHN PRINCE For MAYOR

UPDATE: Dean Ward on his blog references this post of mine in talking further about the unfairness behind some of our local media's reporting. Specifically, he talks about the 4-3 split and how it never was an issue when the shoe was on the other foot. I want to attest to this fact, as my council experienced the same thing Dean's did in wanting change, but found ourselves at the time on the losing end of a 4-3 split with Irwin, Sygutek, etc. who were and still are against change, being in the majority. Her paper never reported this as an issue, although the Activation Analysis Group Report did. But never once did the Herald?

They are nothing more than spin doctors who weave a web to lure the simple folk into believing in their magic, which when exposed to the light of day, disappears like a puff of smoke.


"First they ignore you, then they ridicule you, then they fight you, then you win."

'Build Our Team' Poll

Got a new poll going on the left for all to participate in. Let's see what we can come up with here? Bearing in mind to treat this seriously and vote responsibly, as you would and will on Oct. 18th.

Help build me... us... a team of like-minded individuals who you believe will prove to be a real asset for me and our community to have working together on our behalf.


Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.

It's Time For Change!

I see my 'friends' have a mayoral poll going on as part of their 'dirty tricks' arsenal, I'm guessing. I say this because it has been my experience they will resort to any tactic to win, no matter the cost in both public outrage and personal and community reputation. Some over there, I believe, think the viler the better, as it sells more newspapers.

Anyhow, I'm sure people will not be taken in by their shenanigans, as it should be clear to most readers by now that there can be only two reasons for them doing such a poll 1. they are in a position to 'predetermine' the outcome of their poll showing their man winning. 2. they can use it on the eve of the election to try and influence (propaganda) the gullible to do as others have done and vote for a winner (their man of course).

Which brings me to... lets talk about their winner. A man who has no council experience, been missing in action, knows little to nothing about this community, its problems, its issues, its concerns, its battles, having only recently returned after having been absent for several decades. A man who also has no business experience, is an educator i.e. a teacher (the same class of people that have in large measure been the ones responsible for the mess our municipality now finds itself in (along with their beloved doctor, of course)), has never earned a dollar in the real world but has always relied on sending in budgetary requests (and having them filled by others like him i.e. bureaucrats, who sit all day in an office developing policies (which few, I suggest, at the end of the day adhere to), while knowing little to nothing about what is actually going on in the field, and while probably good at running a school knows little to nothing about running a business, which is what the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass is - not a school, but a 'business'. And as such, must be able to generate revenue other than relying strictly on property taxes.

Businessmen/women is what our next municipal council needs more of... not more educators or school teachers. They, like their newspaper, have been a pox on our community and therefore it is no surprise they stick together as glue and do what they can to promote and protect one another, as their self-interest and power depends on it. Heaven forbid, real change happens here in the Pass, and with it, people discover how much better off they will be, and how poorly managed they have been, with these so-called 'professionals'.

IT'S TIME FOR A CHANGE!

Which brings me to a story that I think you might find interesting that says it all with respect to this matter:

A Man Lived by the Side of the Road
... and sold hot dogs

He had no radio.

He had trouble with his eyes, so he had no newspaper.

But he sold good hot dogs, and lots of them.

He put up a sign on the highway, telling how good they were.

He stood by the side of the road and cried: "Buy a hot dog, mister",
and people bought.

He increased his meat and bun orders, and he bought a bigger store
to take care of his trade.

He got his son home from college to help him, then something happened.

His son said: "Father, haven't you been listening to the radio?
There's a big depression on. The international situation is terrible,
and the domestic situation is even worse."

Whereupon his father thought: "Well, my son has been to college.
He listens to the radio and reads the paper, so he ought to know."

So, the father cut down on his bun and meat orders, took down his
advertising signs, and no longer bothered to stand on the highway to sell hot dogs.

His hot dog sales fell almost overnight.,

"You were right, son" the father said to his son. "We certainly are in the middle of a great depression."

- author unknown

The moral of this story of course is the man selling hot dogs was a businessman who knew what he was doing, and as a result was successful at it. Once you allow the so-called experts (educators) to take over, you might as well pack up your hot dog stand.

Years back, at the height of Irwin and Sygutek's reign the Ratepayers Association fought valiantly to change things for the better in this community but were unsuccessful, and as a result we had years of tyranny, decline and despair. We now have another chance at changing things. Don't allow the establishment and their flunkies to continue in power running things for their and their benefit only. Because if after this election we get more of the same old same old, it will likely be for way more than 3 years, since the back of any future serious opposition will be broken (as was the Ratepayers) and we will have little change in how the Crowsnest Pass is managed for some time to come. This election is critical. It really is a make it or break it time.

Be the change you want to see in the Pass...

On October 18, vote JOHN PRINCE For MAYOR


Experts say we need more experts. Experts everywhere agree.

Why you should NOT vote?

Although this video was made for an American audience during the 2008 elections, its message is still valid for all of us today, including the Crowsnest Pass.



You MUST vote! If you want to see real change in the Pass, then be the change you want to see, by getting out and voting...

On October 18, vote JOHN PRINCE For MAYOR


When the defining moment comes along, you define the moment or the moment defines you.

Do Crowsnest Pass incumbents need to be afraid? I think so!

A wave of voter anger is growing – and incumbents should be afraid.

According to the above story people in general are angry. Very Angry! They feel their politicians are elitist, arrogant and oblivious to their pain and suffering, and as such doing little to nothing to address their issues and concerns. As a result, it's a very, very bad time to be an incumbent.

With this in mind, I wonder how our own incumbents are feeling about their chances of getting back in, considering the mood of our residents towards the on-going, never ending, three year long battle between the two waring camps on our council? Especially, since both camps for the most part are still at war as they battle anew, each camp not only trying to get back in but hoping their side adds even more to their numbers so that dictatorial power can be attained. All the while, apparently, oblivious to the fact there is a good chance none of them will be getting back in because of their past actions.

If according to the story above, residents/voters mood is to get rid of them all i.e. a clean sweep of council in order to start afresh with a new bunch, who hopefully will learn from the mistakes of this past council and the voter discontent generated by them, and understand from this that what is needed and wanted is democracy in action where councillors actually work together as a team for the greater common good and get things done, by applying some good old-fashioned basic common-sense while leaving the grandstanding and 'gotcha' politics behind.

Can one blame them? After all, this council treated us like we were mushrooms i.e. kept us in the dark and fed us BS. We never had public forums to discuss any of the important issues, such as Bridgecreek/River Run and the lack of security deposits and long-term taxpayer liabilities, CLC (legal costs), the 4-3 voter split, etc., etc. and still know little to nothing on who, what, when and why with respect to these matters? They acted like they were above us and need not bother or trouble themselves with such matters as accountability and due diligence. Transparency went out the door as did fiscal responsibility. Thoughtful people believe one side was as bad as the other with respect to these matters, and therefore neither side is deserving of getting back in.

We know for certain, we will be getting a new mayor (which in itself is a huge step in the right direction, in my opinion... especially if it lands up being me. :-) ) what we don't know is whether we will be getting a council made up of unsoiled eager new people willing and able to take this community forward, or a council made up of one or the other of these two warmonger groups and/or a mixture of both? With 19 council candidates and only 5 incumbents that leaves 14 others to choose from. Knowing the makeup of these 14 as I now do, I believe there are not only some really qualified ones among them, but some 'excellent' choices as well.

Hopefully, this time around Crowsnest voters get it right and according to the story above, they probably will.

On October 18, vote JOHN PRINCE For MAYOR


Either succeed together or fail individually.