This timeless classic performed by a great Canadian artist! How many of you remember ringing in the New Year to this man playing this song?
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
But I don't own a small daytime purse!
I have a big life. And that life requires a big purse.
Wallet, make up, hair brush, sunglasses, reading glasses, pen, assorted potions and unguents for various ailments (because you never know), Kleenex, book, hair clip and a few other odds and ends. This is what I lug around with me on a daily basis. When I travel, I need to add a few other essentials, but you don't want to read that list!
Now, I am no security expert but I don't know how limiting US bound flight passengers to a small purse and no other carry on luggage will make the skies a safer place. Assorted media are proclaiming the new rules and Transport Canada has some details on their website.
What is allowed includes medication or medical devices, small purses, cameras, coats, items for care of infants, laptop computers, crutches, canes, walkers, containers carrying life sustaining items, a special needs item, musical instruments, or diplomatic or consular bags.
If I can only have a small purse just what do I put my laptop and camera in? If I buy guitar can I fill the empty space with my usual travel essentials? Just what is a special needs item because I think I can talk my doctor into signing a note!
It seems to me that what will actually make the skies safer is to hire more security personnel, train them well, compensate them properly and do thorough screenings at check in!
But again, I am no security expert.
Wallet, make up, hair brush, sunglasses, reading glasses, pen, assorted potions and unguents for various ailments (because you never know), Kleenex, book, hair clip and a few other odds and ends. This is what I lug around with me on a daily basis. When I travel, I need to add a few other essentials, but you don't want to read that list!
Now, I am no security expert but I don't know how limiting US bound flight passengers to a small purse and no other carry on luggage will make the skies a safer place. Assorted media are proclaiming the new rules and Transport Canada has some details on their website.
What is allowed includes medication or medical devices, small purses, cameras, coats, items for care of infants, laptop computers, crutches, canes, walkers, containers carrying life sustaining items, a special needs item, musical instruments, or diplomatic or consular bags.
If I can only have a small purse just what do I put my laptop and camera in? If I buy guitar can I fill the empty space with my usual travel essentials? Just what is a special needs item because I think I can talk my doctor into signing a note!
It seems to me that what will actually make the skies safer is to hire more security personnel, train them well, compensate them properly and do thorough screenings at check in!
But again, I am no security expert.
Monday, December 28, 2009
And what section does unanswered prayers fall under?
Just before Christmas, CBC.ca had a story about Vishwantee Persaud who was charged under an obscure violation of the Criminal Code among a number of other charges. The one that interests me is a law dating from 1892 to be exact!
It seems that this law targets a specific religion. The charges related to fraudulently parting a fool from his money are one thing but is it the business of the court to determine the veracity of one's faith?
Let me see if I have this right - it's okay to be a witch in this country but it is illegal to fraudulently practice witchcraft and/or sorcery. Hmmm. How does one fraudulently practice witchcraft?
A word of warning to all witches, if you cast a spell or incantation and it doesn't work then you better be prepared to deal with Her Majesty's justice! What about tarot readers, astrologers and the like? What about shaman and medicine women in aboriginal communities?
Why single out witches? Why not other religions? Any priest, rabbi, imam or any religious/spiritual leader who exhorts any of their flock to pray for this that or the other thing and cannot produce provable, positive results should be hauled up before the courts.
What about those who are told that giving to the church provide many rewards but then they still live lives that are destitute - has the church perpetrated a fraud? What proof does the priest offer that god forgives me my sins? If I go to a sweat lodge and don't have a vision can I insist that charges are laid? Can Scientologists really prove that I will be theta clear after I fork out big bucks for auditing sessions?
Or maybe, this archaic law should be stricken from the books.
It seems that this law targets a specific religion. The charges related to fraudulently parting a fool from his money are one thing but is it the business of the court to determine the veracity of one's faith?
Let me see if I have this right - it's okay to be a witch in this country but it is illegal to fraudulently practice witchcraft and/or sorcery. Hmmm. How does one fraudulently practice witchcraft?
A word of warning to all witches, if you cast a spell or incantation and it doesn't work then you better be prepared to deal with Her Majesty's justice! What about tarot readers, astrologers and the like? What about shaman and medicine women in aboriginal communities?
Why single out witches? Why not other religions? Any priest, rabbi, imam or any religious/spiritual leader who exhorts any of their flock to pray for this that or the other thing and cannot produce provable, positive results should be hauled up before the courts.
What about those who are told that giving to the church provide many rewards but then they still live lives that are destitute - has the church perpetrated a fraud? What proof does the priest offer that god forgives me my sins? If I go to a sweat lodge and don't have a vision can I insist that charges are laid? Can Scientologists really prove that I will be theta clear after I fork out big bucks for auditing sessions?
Or maybe, this archaic law should be stricken from the books.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Fairy tale or horror story? Understanding Election Gag Laws Part 5
Once upon a time there was a fiefdom known as The Hill. The Hill was dominated by a large castle which
was a labyrinth of backrooms. The backrooms were inhabited by trolls otherwise known as bureaucrats, policy wonks and wonders of nature (for they can walk upright and have no spine) that are called MPs.
The scary thing about this fiefdom was the power that it had over all the people of all the land.To make things even worse, when the denizens of The Hill talked they were able to talk in such a way that it left the people confused. And they talked so much that the people hardly began to pay attention to what was proclaimed from this place.
Then it happened. Thirty six years ago a great evil was perpetrated on the people by the trolls of The Hill.
And boys and girls, that is where the story really begins.
was a labyrinth of backrooms. The backrooms were inhabited by trolls otherwise known as bureaucrats, policy wonks and wonders of nature (for they can walk upright and have no spine) that are called MPs.
The scary thing about this fiefdom was the power that it had over all the people of all the land.To make things even worse, when the denizens of The Hill talked they were able to talk in such a way that it left the people confused. And they talked so much that the people hardly began to pay attention to what was proclaimed from this place.
Then it happened. Thirty six years ago a great evil was perpetrated on the people by the trolls of The Hill.
And boys and girls, that is where the story really begins.
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Celebrating the True Meaning of Boxing Day - Consumerism!
In honour of my favourite shopping day of the year, I went in search of a funny video on YouTube that would celebrate all the good that the relentless pursuit of consumerism has brought us. All the advances made to move civilization forward because people are willing to pay good money to live in something that is not a mud hut, eat fresh food year round and not die of something like, oh a simple cut!
Yes, the pursuit of a more comfortable life has increased life expectancy, lowered infant mortality rates and have moved us to a place where we can engage in hobbies and recreation instead of working every minute of the day to keep ourselves and our families sheltered, warm, clothed and fed.
But my search today only resulted in a plethora of videos lambasting consumerism. Not one single video could I find that humourously celebrated the joys of stuff and getting more and better stuff!
The irony of the situation is glorious. All these anti consumer videos were made by people who own affordable video cameras, affordable computers which are hooked up to accessible and affordable Internet service and have ample free time to pontificate on the horrors of consumerism!
See, this is funny!
Yes, the pursuit of a more comfortable life has increased life expectancy, lowered infant mortality rates and have moved us to a place where we can engage in hobbies and recreation instead of working every minute of the day to keep ourselves and our families sheltered, warm, clothed and fed.
But my search today only resulted in a plethora of videos lambasting consumerism. Not one single video could I find that humourously celebrated the joys of stuff and getting more and better stuff!
The irony of the situation is glorious. All these anti consumer videos were made by people who own affordable video cameras, affordable computers which are hooked up to accessible and affordable Internet service and have ample free time to pontificate on the horrors of consumerism!
See, this is funny!
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Hallelujah
This is from Andre Rieu's "Live From Radio City Music Hall" in New York City performed in 2004, with the Johann Strauss Orchestra and the Harlem Gospel Choir.
This is lush, rich, powerful and awe inspiring! I love this song but I love this performance, it is one for the ages!
Merry Christmas.
This is lush, rich, powerful and awe inspiring! I love this song but I love this performance, it is one for the ages!
Merry Christmas.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Shame on you Minister Watson. Shame!
Minister Jim Watson, you owe Mayor O'Brien an apology and a public one at that!
I was in the Keg Manor in Westboro this evening when you came in. You sat under the painting of the tulips and you had on that ugly striped sweater. You were sitting with a group of people, one whom you kept calling "Your Worship" and another "Councillor". I didn't recognize them, where were they from?
Then you started regaling them (rather loudly) with disparaging stories about Mayor O'Brien. I was on the opposite end of that room and I heard you sir. And not just one story, you told another one. Said you had many more about let's see, how did you put it? -"That man".
You may not like him, which was obvious to EVERYONE in that room, but those kinds of stories and that kind of contempt should not reveal itself in a public place.
Remind me, what are you Minister of? Ahh yes, Municipal Affairs and Housing if memory serves. Mmmm, tell me, Minister Watson how can I, a citizen of Ottawa be assured that any decisions you or your office have made regarding Ottawa aren't influenced by your obvious disdain for Mayor O'Brien?
Shame on you! This is not the behaviour of a Minister, it is the behaviour of a bitchy drag queen.
I was in the Keg Manor in Westboro this evening when you came in. You sat under the painting of the tulips and you had on that ugly striped sweater. You were sitting with a group of people, one whom you kept calling "Your Worship" and another "Councillor". I didn't recognize them, where were they from?
Then you started regaling them (rather loudly) with disparaging stories about Mayor O'Brien. I was on the opposite end of that room and I heard you sir. And not just one story, you told another one. Said you had many more about let's see, how did you put it? -"That man".
You may not like him, which was obvious to EVERYONE in that room, but those kinds of stories and that kind of contempt should not reveal itself in a public place.
Remind me, what are you Minister of? Ahh yes, Municipal Affairs and Housing if memory serves. Mmmm, tell me, Minister Watson how can I, a citizen of Ottawa be assured that any decisions you or your office have made regarding Ottawa aren't influenced by your obvious disdain for Mayor O'Brien?
Shame on you! This is not the behaviour of a Minister, it is the behaviour of a bitchy drag queen.
Hey, you kids! Stop playing together. Understanding Election Gag Laws Part 4
In spite of the cumbersome language (think of the dullest, driest text book you were forced to not only read but pay for in university), it is an enlightening read. It makes one thing perfectly clear - our legislators don't trust us!
No, the Canadian voter cannot be trusted to engage in election debate. We cannot band together as citizens in a democracy to reach out to other citizens. We cannot set the agenda - that is strictly for our politicians. I get it - they're afraid and they damn well should be! Elected officials know that their positions are subject to their remaining in the good graces of the electorate and it would seem that a very well informed electorate might hold them a tad more accountable!
I suspect that a public that is better informed on the issues, all the issues and not just the ones determined by the inner circles of the various political leaders, would actually increase voter turn out!
And this leads me to sections 351 - 359. It is 351 that is really important while the rest of Part 17 is a lot of blah, blah, blah housekeeping issues, dealing with issues of identifying, accounting and auditing! (Although if I have left out something I hope I can count on my friends who have been fighting this nightmare longer will come to my aid and educate me.)
No combination to exceed limit
351. A third party shall not circumvent, or attempt to circumvent, a limit set out in section 350 in any manner, including by splitting itself into two or more third parties for the purpose of circumventing the limit or acting in collusion with another third party so that their combined election advertising expenses exceed the limit.
To understand what this means I refer back to my example in Part 3 of this series with The Association of Ottawa Centre Yoga Studios. So they decide since they can't roll out the ad campaign that they originally wanted they decide to splinter - create an association for Westboro and another for the Glebe. Sorry my bendy friends - you can't do that!
This is so clearly, blatantly anti-community, anti-democracy it boggles the mind. Thousands of Canadians can gather in noisy protests over a war in Iraq that we didn't even participate in but this gets what kind of reaction?
I don't understand. C'mon people, get angry! Okay, we're Canadian so can we at least work up a good hissy fit?!?!
Next chapter is the history of this law and how the best Canadians challenged it!
No, the Canadian voter cannot be trusted to engage in election debate. We cannot band together as citizens in a democracy to reach out to other citizens. We cannot set the agenda - that is strictly for our politicians. I get it - they're afraid and they damn well should be! Elected officials know that their positions are subject to their remaining in the good graces of the electorate and it would seem that a very well informed electorate might hold them a tad more accountable!
I suspect that a public that is better informed on the issues, all the issues and not just the ones determined by the inner circles of the various political leaders, would actually increase voter turn out!
And this leads me to sections 351 - 359. It is 351 that is really important while the rest of Part 17 is a lot of blah, blah, blah housekeeping issues, dealing with issues of identifying, accounting and auditing! (Although if I have left out something I hope I can count on my friends who have been fighting this nightmare longer will come to my aid and educate me.)
No combination to exceed limit
351. A third party shall not circumvent, or attempt to circumvent, a limit set out in section 350 in any manner, including by splitting itself into two or more third parties for the purpose of circumventing the limit or acting in collusion with another third party so that their combined election advertising expenses exceed the limit.
To understand what this means I refer back to my example in Part 3 of this series with The Association of Ottawa Centre Yoga Studios. So they decide since they can't roll out the ad campaign that they originally wanted they decide to splinter - create an association for Westboro and another for the Glebe. Sorry my bendy friends - you can't do that!
This is so clearly, blatantly anti-community, anti-democracy it boggles the mind. Thousands of Canadians can gather in noisy protests over a war in Iraq that we didn't even participate in but this gets what kind of reaction?
I don't understand. C'mon people, get angry! Okay, we're Canadian so can we at least work up a good hissy fit?!?!
Next chapter is the history of this law and how the best Canadians challenged it!
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Rick Mercer's sleepover with Prime Minister Harper
He is smart, he is funny and let's face it - who can resist that grin! Prime Minister Harper has it all.
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Merry Christmas lovers of free speech! Here's your present early.
The highest court in the land has finally loosened some of its grip on the freedom of speech for media, which includes bloggers, like yours truly! Two cases Quan v. Cusson and Grant v. Torstar Corp .
A few important things happened here. These rulings are that ripple in the pond that grows and grows. Today a victory for media against libel chill, perhaps soon we will triumph over our archaic election gag laws!
So what makes me so gosh darn happy?
A few important things happened here. These rulings are that ripple in the pond that grows and grows. Today a victory for media against libel chill, perhaps soon we will triumph over our archaic election gag laws!
So what makes me so gosh darn happy?
Who will speak for the Yoga Instructors? Understanding Election Gag Laws Part 3
Section 350 is wrong. Just wrong.
In a nutshell it states that third parties (anyone who is not a candidate, official political party or agents thereof) are not allowed to spend more than $3000 in each riding and no more than $150, 000 in the entire country.
Let's do the math shall we? There are 301 ridings in Canada. If you spend $3000 in each riding you will end up with an advertising bill in the amount of $903, 000. This exceeds the limit by $753,000 and you will be charged for violating the Canada Election Act.
If you want to advertise in every riding in the country then you will have a budget of just under $500 per riding to get your message out. Ah, that includes TV, radio and all print. Let's face it, your 500 bucks is maybe going to get you a quarter page in the local community paper - maybe. It sure won't get you much exposure.
Now there are those who argue that these limits keep big money from controlling election debate. No this gags everyone.
In a nutshell it states that third parties (anyone who is not a candidate, official political party or agents thereof) are not allowed to spend more than $3000 in each riding and no more than $150, 000 in the entire country.
Let's do the math shall we? There are 301 ridings in Canada. If you spend $3000 in each riding you will end up with an advertising bill in the amount of $903, 000. This exceeds the limit by $753,000 and you will be charged for violating the Canada Election Act.
If you want to advertise in every riding in the country then you will have a budget of just under $500 per riding to get your message out. Ah, that includes TV, radio and all print. Let's face it, your 500 bucks is maybe going to get you a quarter page in the local community paper - maybe. It sure won't get you much exposure.
Now there are those who argue that these limits keep big money from controlling election debate. No this gags everyone.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Write a Soldier
There has been a long tradition of writing letters to soldiers. Especially during times of war. We write to our soldiers to thank them for their service and sacrifice to our country. We write to our soldiers to give them a small piece of home and we write because we know it is a very good deed we do.
I have met many soldiers who have received those letters addressed to Any Canadian Soldier and they truly cherish each post! It brings great comfort to our serving men and women to know that people care enough to take the time to write.
I have met many soldiers who have received those letters addressed to Any Canadian Soldier and they truly cherish each post! It brings great comfort to our serving men and women to know that people care enough to take the time to write.
Canada - Environmental Villian or Misunderstood Rebel?
Al Gore hates us, Jack and Liz are ashamed and their assorted drones are wagging their fingers at Canada for perceived crimes against the planet. My mother often told me to be careful about pointing a finger at someone because when you do, you have three more pointing back at you!
It seems Canada is not a villian, just the misunderstood rebel. There are a number of environmental NGOs that will be handing out awards to Canadian cities and provinces for their leadership.
Calgary is receiving an award for committing to 100% green energy for municipal operations. Edmonton for being one of the first Canadian cities to create a plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Greenest City Action Plan goes to Vancouver. Toronto recieves an award for actually reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and the province of Ontario receives the Green Energy Champion Award for encouraging renewable energy development and protecting forest!
All this and we only put out 2% of the planet's carbon emissions. Yup, misunderstand rebel! Now how cool is that?!
It seems Canada is not a villian, just the misunderstood rebel. There are a number of environmental NGOs that will be handing out awards to Canadian cities and provinces for their leadership.
Calgary is receiving an award for committing to 100% green energy for municipal operations. Edmonton for being one of the first Canadian cities to create a plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Greenest City Action Plan goes to Vancouver. Toronto recieves an award for actually reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and the province of Ontario receives the Green Energy Champion Award for encouraging renewable energy development and protecting forest!
All this and we only put out 2% of the planet's carbon emissions. Yup, misunderstand rebel! Now how cool is that?!
Grab your laptop and crayons. Understanding Election Gag Laws Part 2
The Canada Elections Act, like all legislation is a cumbersome read. My focus has been the sections that relate to the restriction of free speech. Thank the gods because if I read the whole thing my head would explode!
It said that the people get the government they deserve. An assumption that the electorate is informed and votes accordingly. But if information is being witheld then how can anyone make an informed decision? Are we getting the government we deserve?
Section 323 deals with what happens on the day of the election. There is no advertising allowed on the day of the election. Why? Yet Section 324 grants exceptions by allowing advertising on the internet and through signs, posters and banners.
Who wrote this? This makes no sense. TV, radio and print media - no way. Internet, posters and such - knock your socks off! What the @#*! ?
It said that the people get the government they deserve. An assumption that the electorate is informed and votes accordingly. But if information is being witheld then how can anyone make an informed decision? Are we getting the government we deserve?
Section 323 deals with what happens on the day of the election. There is no advertising allowed on the day of the election. Why? Yet Section 324 grants exceptions by allowing advertising on the internet and through signs, posters and banners.
Who wrote this? This makes no sense. TV, radio and print media - no way. Internet, posters and such - knock your socks off! What the @#*! ?
Sunday, December 20, 2009
What hurts more than a root canal? Understanding Election Gag Laws Part 1
My head hurts. I have spent the day reading the Elections Act. Okay, not the Act in its entirety just the parts that have been euphemistically referred to as the gag laws. I have had root canals that have hurt less.
But this is important, so over the next little while I am going to focus on this bit of legislation. We need to shake off our ignorance. This legislation is that noise in the dark. That rustle in the bush. It is that feeling in your gut that something is not right. We need turn on the light, get prepared and pay attention. In other words, we must educate ourselves. Let’s make this an issue.
But this is important, so over the next little while I am going to focus on this bit of legislation. We need to shake off our ignorance. This legislation is that noise in the dark. That rustle in the bush. It is that feeling in your gut that something is not right. We need turn on the light, get prepared and pay attention. In other words, we must educate ourselves. Let’s make this an issue.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
It's coming...
I love this time of year! There is just so gosh darn much to love. The get-togethers with friends and family! The food. The generosity. The knowledge that the new year brings new hope! It is a season filled with so many blessings.
But there is something that lurks amongst the decorations and food. While we go blissfully and wantonly through this glorious Christmas season (and Chanukah too!) there are hordes of government bureaucrats smirking at our obliviousness. Lulled by hot toddies, short bread cookies and excessive amounts of tryptophan due to turkey overdose we are in denial.
Deep breath. Exhale slowly but get ready because tax season is upon us! Yes, once we wake from our stupor the mad frenzy to top up RRSPs, gather the receipts and wonder just how much this is going to cost you .
Inevitably those of us who pay income tax will encounter someone who does not or pays very little and will natter on and on about how the whole taxation system is unfair. That the rich are not paying their fair share.
Ahh if only I had a dollar for every time I heard that, I would have enough to go on a really nice vacation! Well, in the spirit of the season and the ghost of future conversations with lefties ignorant of how taxes work I would like to present this amusing little video.
Enjoy!
But there is something that lurks amongst the decorations and food. While we go blissfully and wantonly through this glorious Christmas season (and Chanukah too!) there are hordes of government bureaucrats smirking at our obliviousness. Lulled by hot toddies, short bread cookies and excessive amounts of tryptophan due to turkey overdose we are in denial.
Deep breath. Exhale slowly but get ready because tax season is upon us! Yes, once we wake from our stupor the mad frenzy to top up RRSPs, gather the receipts and wonder just how much this is going to cost you .
Inevitably those of us who pay income tax will encounter someone who does not or pays very little and will natter on and on about how the whole taxation system is unfair. That the rich are not paying their fair share.
Ahh if only I had a dollar for every time I heard that, I would have enough to go on a really nice vacation! Well, in the spirit of the season and the ghost of future conversations with lefties ignorant of how taxes work I would like to present this amusing little video.
Enjoy!
Friday, December 18, 2009
Danger in your dildo, warns Liberal MP
Just a note to my Mom and my daughter Tori - don't read what is going to follow. It falls into that way too much information category that you just don't want to hear when it comes to your daughter or your mother. Come back tomorrow!
The Globe and Mail is reporting that Liberal MP Carolyn Bennett is agitating to legislate sex toys because of "potential" health hazards. Not real, they exist kind of health hazards, but only potential ones. There are soooooo many things to discuss here and I really just don't know where to start. But I can say that anything that will interfere with the next generation of the We Vibe getting onto the market is going to get me all worked up - and not in a good way!
The Globe and Mail is reporting that Liberal MP Carolyn Bennett is agitating to legislate sex toys because of "potential" health hazards. Not real, they exist kind of health hazards, but only potential ones. There are soooooo many things to discuss here and I really just don't know where to start. But I can say that anything that will interfere with the next generation of the We Vibe getting onto the market is going to get me all worked up - and not in a good way!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Prime Minister Harper replies, sort of...
This past Saturday I wrote about the election gag laws. I shared with you an email that I sent to the office of the Prime Minister and guess what? I have a response!
Not from the Prime Minister and not even an assistant with a name. No, I got a reply from a nameless autoreplybot. I suspect that someone read the email and the copied and pasted the most appropriate response from a selection of prewritten responses. Here it is:
Please know that your e-mail message has been received in the Prime Minister's Office and that your comments have been noted. Our office always welcomes hearing from correspondents and being made aware of their views.
Thank you for writing.
Sachez que le Cabinet du Premier ministre a bien reçu votre courriel et que nous avons pris bonne note de vos commentaires. Nous aimons être bien informés de l'opinion des correspondants.
Je vous remercie d'avoir écrit au Premier ministre.
I guess they don't have a standard form reply for people who insist that sections 323 and 352–360 of the Canada Elections Act be repealed.
Not from the Prime Minister and not even an assistant with a name. No, I got a reply from a nameless autoreplybot. I suspect that someone read the email and the copied and pasted the most appropriate response from a selection of prewritten responses. Here it is:
Please know that your e-mail message has been received in the Prime Minister's Office and that your comments have been noted. Our office always welcomes hearing from correspondents and being made aware of their views.
Thank you for writing.
Sachez que le Cabinet du Premier ministre a bien reçu votre courriel et que nous avons pris bonne note de vos commentaires. Nous aimons être bien informés de l'opinion des correspondants.
Je vous remercie d'avoir écrit au Premier ministre.
I guess they don't have a standard form reply for people who insist that sections 323 and 352–360 of the Canada Elections Act be repealed.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Canadian Flag Desecrated - what's the real story?
I am heartbroken. I came home from a day of running errands only to find an email notifying me that a flag at the Canadian High Commission has been cut down. You can read the story at The Globe and Mail. I am a patriot and I love my country. I proudly fly the Maple Leaf on my front lawn.
Apparently a few "activists" scaled a wall, cut down the flag and then chained themselves to a balcony. Charges of aggravated tresspassing and criminal damage are pending. British police say they have arrested three environmental activists who scaled the wall of the Canadian High Commission in London and cut down the Canadian flag. Apprarently there were also plans to dunk the flag in crude oil to protest development of the oil sands.
The Prime Minister's office is spinning this as a slam against all our soldiers in Afganistan. Why do they only mention the soldiers in Afganistan? We have soldiers deployed in other hell holes around the planet! Check it out at http://www.comfec-cefcom.forces.gc.ca/pa-ap/ops/index-eng.asp I am the wife of a soldier. A soldier who is deployed in the Middle East. A soldier who has committed his life to the principles of freedom and democracy. That man is committed 100% to the right of any idiot express their idiocy as long as they don't get infringe on the rights of any persons or their property or incite to violence against persons or property.
Specious flag waving is almost as bad as flag desecration. What I want to know is how did these fools go unnoticed long enough after breaking into the property, cutting down the flag and then chaining themselves to a balcony? Where was security? And if three criminals can get in that easily to our High Commission then what the hell else is going on? That is the real issue here and I hope an investigation is launched into the apparent lack of security our London High Commission. Perhaps an investigation into the security of all our High Commissions and Embassies?
So if these children want to destroy a flag well, that's okay. They should have paid for their own flag and stayed on their own property to do so. While their actions were offensive a democratic people can look at that action and see it for what it was. Infantile grandstanding hardly worth mention.
Apparently a few "activists" scaled a wall, cut down the flag and then chained themselves to a balcony. Charges of aggravated tresspassing and criminal damage are pending. British police say they have arrested three environmental activists who scaled the wall of the Canadian High Commission in London and cut down the Canadian flag. Apprarently there were also plans to dunk the flag in crude oil to protest development of the oil sands.
The Prime Minister's office is spinning this as a slam against all our soldiers in Afganistan. Why do they only mention the soldiers in Afganistan? We have soldiers deployed in other hell holes around the planet! Check it out at http://www.comfec-cefcom.forces.gc.ca/pa-ap/ops/index-eng.asp I am the wife of a soldier. A soldier who is deployed in the Middle East. A soldier who has committed his life to the principles of freedom and democracy. That man is committed 100% to the right of any idiot express their idiocy as long as they don't get infringe on the rights of any persons or their property or incite to violence against persons or property.
Specious flag waving is almost as bad as flag desecration. What I want to know is how did these fools go unnoticed long enough after breaking into the property, cutting down the flag and then chaining themselves to a balcony? Where was security? And if three criminals can get in that easily to our High Commission then what the hell else is going on? That is the real issue here and I hope an investigation is launched into the apparent lack of security our London High Commission. Perhaps an investigation into the security of all our High Commissions and Embassies?
So if these children want to destroy a flag well, that's okay. They should have paid for their own flag and stayed on their own property to do so. While their actions were offensive a democratic people can look at that action and see it for what it was. Infantile grandstanding hardly worth mention.
I won't back down.
Yesterday I was called called a racist. Oddly enough I am not outraged. I have heard this slur so many times that it has lost all power to shock or upset me. The society that we live in tolerates no dissenting opinion. Make any kind of negative comment about Obama and be called a racist. Express empathy with Israel and be called racist Zionist tool. Say that hip hop and rap culture along with everything about it is a blight on humanity because of it's glorification of violence and misogyny and you got it - you're a racist. These are only a few of the instances in which I have been called a racist.
There is an irony to that accusation. I grew up in an interacial family. My older sisters are from my mother's first marriage. They were born in Tunisia and their father was a black Muslim. My Mother is German - well she insists that she is Canadian but she was born in Germany. I know the ugliness and havoc that real racism wreaks. I watched how it tortured my sisters.
There is an irony to that accusation. I grew up in an interacial family. My older sisters are from my mother's first marriage. They were born in Tunisia and their father was a black Muslim. My Mother is German - well she insists that she is Canadian but she was born in Germany. I know the ugliness and havoc that real racism wreaks. I watched how it tortured my sisters.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Welcome to Libertarianism
This was sent to me some time ago. I like to read it every once in a while. Enjoy.
A young woman was about to finish her last year of college. Like so many others her age she considered herself to be a very liberal and was for distribution of all wealth. She felt deeply ashamed that her father was a rather staunch Libertarian, which she expressed openly.
One day she was challenging her father on his beliefs and his opposition to higher taxes on the rich. Based on the lectures that she had participated in and the occasional chat with a professor she felt that for years her father had obviously harbored an evil, even selfish desire to keep what he thought should be his. The self-professed objectivity proclaimed by her professors had to be the truth and she indicated so to her father.
He stopped her and asked her point blank, how she was doing in school. She answered rather haughtily that she had a 4.0 GPA, and let him know that it was tough to maintain. That she studied all the time, never had time to go out and party like other people she knew. She didn't even have time for a boyfriend and didn't really have many college friends because of spending all her time studying. That she was taking a more difficult curriculum.
Her father listened and then asked, "How is your good friend Mary doing?" She replied, "Mary is barely getting by." She continued, "She barely has a 2.0 GPA," adding, "and all she takes are easy classes and she never studies. But Mary is so very popular on campus, college for her is a blast, she goes to all the parties all the time and very often doesn't even show up for classes because she is too hung over."
Her father then asked his daughter, "Why don't you go to the Dean's office and ask him to deduct a 1.0 off your 4.0 GPA and give it to your friend who only has a 2.0." He continued, "That way you will both have a 3.0 GPA and certainly that would be a fair and equal distribution of GPA."
The daughter visibly shocked by her father's suggestion angrily fired back, "That wouldn't be fair! I worked really hard for mine, I did without and Mary has done little or nothing, she played while I worked real hard!"
The father slowly smiled, winked and said, "Welcome to Libertarianism!"
A young woman was about to finish her last year of college. Like so many others her age she considered herself to be a very liberal and was for distribution of all wealth. She felt deeply ashamed that her father was a rather staunch Libertarian, which she expressed openly.
One day she was challenging her father on his beliefs and his opposition to higher taxes on the rich. Based on the lectures that she had participated in and the occasional chat with a professor she felt that for years her father had obviously harbored an evil, even selfish desire to keep what he thought should be his. The self-professed objectivity proclaimed by her professors had to be the truth and she indicated so to her father.
He stopped her and asked her point blank, how she was doing in school. She answered rather haughtily that she had a 4.0 GPA, and let him know that it was tough to maintain. That she studied all the time, never had time to go out and party like other people she knew. She didn't even have time for a boyfriend and didn't really have many college friends because of spending all her time studying. That she was taking a more difficult curriculum.
Her father listened and then asked, "How is your good friend Mary doing?" She replied, "Mary is barely getting by." She continued, "She barely has a 2.0 GPA," adding, "and all she takes are easy classes and she never studies. But Mary is so very popular on campus, college for her is a blast, she goes to all the parties all the time and very often doesn't even show up for classes because she is too hung over."
Her father then asked his daughter, "Why don't you go to the Dean's office and ask him to deduct a 1.0 off your 4.0 GPA and give it to your friend who only has a 2.0." He continued, "That way you will both have a 3.0 GPA and certainly that would be a fair and equal distribution of GPA."
The daughter visibly shocked by her father's suggestion angrily fired back, "That wouldn't be fair! I worked really hard for mine, I did without and Mary has done little or nothing, she played while I worked real hard!"
The father slowly smiled, winked and said, "Welcome to Libertarianism!"
Join Us Tonight!
The Free Thinking Film Society presents:
"DO As I Say"
December 14, 2009 at 7:00 PM
National Archives/Library of Canada
395 Wellington StreetOttawa
Admission $8.00
Please join us for some egg nog, good cheer for the holiday season, and a terrific movie about liberal hypocrisy!
Hypocrites come in all shapes and sizes. And when it comes to politics, hypocrisy is just part of the game. But the press only tends to cover half the story. For decades, the American people have benefited from the media's meticulous investigation of hypocrisy among conservative leaders. Meanwhile, liberal hypocrisy gets a free pass.But not any more.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots
It was Saturday night and I should have been at Galerie 240 celebrating but it was cold and I wanted to lay in my bed drinking port and surfing the net. So there I was all tucked in, glass of port beside me (and beside that the bottle) with a perfect wifi connection and a cat purring next to me. There was only one more thing that I needed to make this perfect but this isn't that kind of blog. Anyway...
I began by checking my email account. My mother (the died in the wool socialist) said kind things about my blog but she is my mom and she always says kind things. Her husband (an ex marine, Korean war vet and Purple Heart Medal honouree who I call Big Daddy) likes my blog and thinks I should write a book. My friend likes the shoes and wants to know when and where I got the leopard prints (Michael Kors on sale at Holt Renfrew last week).
Once that is out of the way I head off to check out my favourite blogs. There is Fred over at http://www.gayandright.blogspot.com/ , Mark over at http://www.steynonline.com/ , Pam at over at Atlas Shrugs , Eeyore over at Vlad Tepes and of course Gerry at Libertas Post along with about a dozen or so that I like to check out. However after all that I am bored and decide to play one of my favourite games. Google roulette!
How do you play Google roulette? You type in totally random words into the Google search engine and see what comes up. It's kind of like looking for really good porn but without the naked bits. So there I am just typing in random words and my fingers key in "sisterhood" and "patriot" and that's when I see it.
A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots
I began by checking my email account. My mother (the died in the wool socialist) said kind things about my blog but she is my mom and she always says kind things. Her husband (an ex marine, Korean war vet and Purple Heart Medal honouree who I call Big Daddy) likes my blog and thinks I should write a book. My friend likes the shoes and wants to know when and where I got the leopard prints (Michael Kors on sale at Holt Renfrew last week).
Once that is out of the way I head off to check out my favourite blogs. There is Fred over at http://www.gayandright.blogspot.com/ , Mark over at http://www.steynonline.com/ , Pam at over at Atlas Shrugs , Eeyore over at Vlad Tepes and of course Gerry at Libertas Post along with about a dozen or so that I like to check out. However after all that I am bored and decide to play one of my favourite games. Google roulette!
How do you play Google roulette? You type in totally random words into the Google search engine and see what comes up. It's kind of like looking for really good porn but without the naked bits. So there I am just typing in random words and my fingers key in "sisterhood" and "patriot" and that's when I see it.
A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots
Saturday, December 12, 2009
This is not about Right or Left Politics
I mentioned a couple of days ago about the speech given by Gerry Nicholls regarding gag laws. What follows at the end of this post is the text version of that speech.
These laws should send chills down the spine of anyone who has even a modicum of appreciation for the right to free speech! Take the time to read Gerry's speech and then send an email to Prime Minister Harper insisting that he change this law.
Now!
You can send your email to pm@pm.gc.ca and you can make it simple. This is what I sent:
Prime Minister Harper,
You signed a pledge to scrap the election gag law should you ever become Prime Minister.
Sir, you are the Prime Minister and still the law exists. Own up to your promise and scrap this law. This is important and you can not ignore it any longer.
I look forward to your email advising me when I can expect you to table the motion that will give me back my right to freedom of speech during an election.
******************************
So read the speech that follows then send your email.
Gag laws and free speech
These laws should send chills down the spine of anyone who has even a modicum of appreciation for the right to free speech! Take the time to read Gerry's speech and then send an email to Prime Minister Harper insisting that he change this law.
Now!
You can send your email to pm@pm.gc.ca and you can make it simple. This is what I sent:
Prime Minister Harper,
You signed a pledge to scrap the election gag law should you ever become Prime Minister.
Sir, you are the Prime Minister and still the law exists. Own up to your promise and scrap this law. This is important and you can not ignore it any longer.
I look forward to your email advising me when I can expect you to table the motion that will give me back my right to freedom of speech during an election.
******************************
So read the speech that follows then send your email.
Gag laws and free speech
Friday, December 11, 2009
Keep the lights on!
Happy Chanukah to the chosen people of God! This is one shicksa who will pray for peace for your people but until that time I will pray for your continued strength in the struggles you face!
The Closeted Conservative
"You have enemies? Good. That means you've stood up for something, sometime in your life."
This is perhaps my favourite quote from Sir Winston Churchill because it calls me to action. To be fearless in the face of opposition and to stand up straight, look people in the eye and say what I mean.
I know too many Conservatives who behave as closeted gays do. They hide their inherent nature in order not to cause conflict with friends and loved ones. In both circumstances this is frustrating and sad. I feel compassion for gays and lesbians who must live in fear of serious reprisals - the dangers they face are real but that is a story for another day.
Now closeted Conservatives - sorry I don't have a great deal of empathy for you. How about we start a new term - CloCons? CloCons are an interesting breed. They are so good at their personal subterfuge that when you speak with them you may think to yourself "Wow, now that's right wing" and you would never guess that they only come out in "safe" places. Heaven forbid they express an opinion when it really counts!
This is perhaps my favourite quote from Sir Winston Churchill because it calls me to action. To be fearless in the face of opposition and to stand up straight, look people in the eye and say what I mean.
I know too many Conservatives who behave as closeted gays do. They hide their inherent nature in order not to cause conflict with friends and loved ones. In both circumstances this is frustrating and sad. I feel compassion for gays and lesbians who must live in fear of serious reprisals - the dangers they face are real but that is a story for another day.
Now closeted Conservatives - sorry I don't have a great deal of empathy for you. How about we start a new term - CloCons? CloCons are an interesting breed. They are so good at their personal subterfuge that when you speak with them you may think to yourself "Wow, now that's right wing" and you would never guess that they only come out in "safe" places. Heaven forbid they express an opinion when it really counts!
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Responding to my darling Anonymous
Just read this comment that I received on my little post from earlier today about the Liberals in the Senate who screwed up with Bill C-15.
Anonymous said...
LOL!
straight from the PMO talking points sheet.
I'd worry more about 'torture-boy' MacKay than the Senate.
Watch this: you may learn something.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=173LZbyWCOU
=======================
Ah where to start where to start...
Anonymous said...
LOL!
straight from the PMO talking points sheet.
I'd worry more about 'torture-boy' MacKay than the Senate.
Watch this: you may learn something.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=173LZbyWCOU
=======================
Ah where to start where to start...
Bill C-15 torpedoed by Liberals
I am so freaking angry! Just received a press release on the latest shenanigans of the Liberal Senators who have put the kibosh on Bill C-15. This bill would have ensured that convicted criminals served time in jail for drug crimes that involved organized crime, violence or preying on our vulnerable youth!
Hottest Conservative
Kissinger said - and I am paraphrasing here that power is the ultimate aphrodisiac. I will buy that but I will go one step further. Sure every girl is crazy about a sharp dressed man as the boys in ZZ Top sang about but what all Rightchiks are crazy about is a man who is smart, believes in fiscal responsibility, transparency and of course freedom of speech. Amongst other things.
So I am starting a poll to determine the hottest Conservative men in this country. I have started with the obvious three. A holy trinity of pure manhood. Mark Steyn - a rapier wit, brilliant and that voice!!! Ezra Levant - fearless, genius and that boyish grin! Prime Minister Harper - the grey is nice and really what a mind plus he's got that whole thing that Kissinger was talking about! Peter MacKay because he showed great leadership in helping to unite the right and those puppy dog eyes of his. Patrick Brown because he signed up to follow my tweets so obviously the man is a genius and cute! And finally Stephen Taylor - smart, insightful and I am about to apply to have my blog listed on the bloggingtories site!
So there you have it - some of the hottest Conservative men in the country (okay I know Steyn lives below the 49th but he is still Canadian).
Let's face it Rightchiks across this great land may think George Clooney is very easy on the eyes but we all know about his lefty leanings and that is just not a turn on!
So, take the poll and make suggestions about who the hottest Conservative is! BTW are there any more of those Hotties for Harper tee shirts floating around - I would like to buy one!
So I am starting a poll to determine the hottest Conservative men in this country. I have started with the obvious three. A holy trinity of pure manhood. Mark Steyn - a rapier wit, brilliant and that voice!!! Ezra Levant - fearless, genius and that boyish grin! Prime Minister Harper - the grey is nice and really what a mind plus he's got that whole thing that Kissinger was talking about! Peter MacKay because he showed great leadership in helping to unite the right and those puppy dog eyes of his. Patrick Brown because he signed up to follow my tweets so obviously the man is a genius and cute! And finally Stephen Taylor - smart, insightful and I am about to apply to have my blog listed on the bloggingtories site!
So there you have it - some of the hottest Conservative men in the country (okay I know Steyn lives below the 49th but he is still Canadian).
Let's face it Rightchiks across this great land may think George Clooney is very easy on the eyes but we all know about his lefty leanings and that is just not a turn on!
So, take the poll and make suggestions about who the hottest Conservative is! BTW are there any more of those Hotties for Harper tee shirts floating around - I would like to buy one!
Do As I Say
Check out the below invite from The Free Thinking Film Society! Fred does the work of angels with the Society. Check out his blog too at http://www.gayandright.blogspot.com/
The Free Thinking Film Society presents:
"DO As I Say"
December 14, 2009 at 7:00 PM
National Archives/Library of Canada
395 Wellington StreetOttawa
Admission $8.00
Please join us for some egg nog, good cheer for the holiday season, and a terrific movie about liberal hypocrisy!
Move on already!
The Free Speech Symposium that I attended on Monday had many speakers ranging from the hard core SoCons to Randian Libertarians. The first speaker of the day was a SoCon by the name of Richard Bastion, an Associate Fellow with The Canadian Centre for Policy Studies.
The program stated that he was to lecture on "the ideological roots of the movement to limit free speech and explains how the erosion of liberty is inevitable in a society dominated by the ideas of the post-modern liberalism."
What I heard was blah blah blah gay agenda. Blah blah blah abortion is wrong. And on and on it went. I appreciate that this man has a moral compass that is strongly guided by religious conviction. That's fine but c'mon already. Those debates are over. Done. Fin.
The program stated that he was to lecture on "the ideological roots of the movement to limit free speech and explains how the erosion of liberty is inevitable in a society dominated by the ideas of the post-modern liberalism."
What I heard was blah blah blah gay agenda. Blah blah blah abortion is wrong. And on and on it went. I appreciate that this man has a moral compass that is strongly guided by religious conviction. That's fine but c'mon already. Those debates are over. Done. Fin.
True North - Strong? Not Free!
On Monday, Dec. 7 I had the good fortune to attend a symposium hosted by The Canadian Centre for Policy Studies. The subject was Free Speech and Liberty. Wow what an event! You should have been there. Lots of good stuff and lots of frustrating stuff, which I will get into over the next few days.
Check out their website http://www.policystudies.ca/
I think the talk I enjoyed the most was given by Gerry Nicholls. He was the former VP for the National Citizens Coalition. He is an engaging speaker who speaks with ease, humour and in language that is direct and honest. Most important however are his ideas which are finely tuned and it is no wonder that he is often referred to as one of Canada's top political minds. This guy is scary smart but fortunately so personable and friendly that he doesn't make you feel like a moron when speaking to him!
Check out their website http://www.policystudies.ca/
I think the talk I enjoyed the most was given by Gerry Nicholls. He was the former VP for the National Citizens Coalition. He is an engaging speaker who speaks with ease, humour and in language that is direct and honest. Most important however are his ideas which are finely tuned and it is no wonder that he is often referred to as one of Canada's top political minds. This guy is scary smart but fortunately so personable and friendly that he doesn't make you feel like a moron when speaking to him!
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
One more opinion on the blogosphere
My first blog post. Allow me to introduce myself, I'm a man of wealth and taste. No wait, that's Mick Jagger not me.
My name is Tamara and I feel the need to tell Conservatives what is wrong with them. No I am not some tree hugging, dirt munching, birkenstock wearing lefty. I am Conservative with very strong libertarian leanings. I am just so bloody frustrated by the inability of the Right to get their act together. Conservatives are failing miserably at communicating our message effectively. It's not that conservatives don't have excellent messages, it's just that conservatives don't know how to get the message out there in a way that gets the buy in of the majority of the Canadian electorate. Conservative values are core values that resonate but let's face it the left is telling the voter who we are and because they are doing such a good job at communication the public believes what other people say about us instead of people actually taking the time to listen to us.
Now a brief explanation of the name. Rightchik - I am right wing and consider myself a chick - all hips, lips and t*ts! I glory in my feminity and thank the gods every day for the blessing of being brought into this world as a woman.
CFM shoe feminist - well for those of you who don't know that acronym CFM stands for Come F*** Me. I wear shoes that are impossibly high, jeans that are scandalously tight and every top I own shows off an ample cleavage. My hair is long, black and always looks like I rolled out of bed. Pale skin, green eyes and lips that always have bright red lipstick on them. Think Snow White's evil twin. I think that the feminist movement of the 60s and 70s did a huge disservice to women in that it has robbed them of their greatest asset. Their feminity.
I don't need to wear a mannish suit for a man to take me seriously. I think the men I meet and work with are smart enough to listen to what I have to say before they pass judgement on me. And quite frankly if they are too busy looking at my t*ts to pay attention to what is being said then you can damn well bet that I am going to take advantage of that! And why shouldn't I?
And quite frankly I am tired of lefty women telling me that I am buying into male corporate oppression. No I am buying into the glorious divine goddess that I am who appreciates her beauty and honours the sacred feminine nature that is inherently mine!
So, there I am. I hope you will like what you read here.
My name is Tamara and I feel the need to tell Conservatives what is wrong with them. No I am not some tree hugging, dirt munching, birkenstock wearing lefty. I am Conservative with very strong libertarian leanings. I am just so bloody frustrated by the inability of the Right to get their act together. Conservatives are failing miserably at communicating our message effectively. It's not that conservatives don't have excellent messages, it's just that conservatives don't know how to get the message out there in a way that gets the buy in of the majority of the Canadian electorate. Conservative values are core values that resonate but let's face it the left is telling the voter who we are and because they are doing such a good job at communication the public believes what other people say about us instead of people actually taking the time to listen to us.
Now a brief explanation of the name. Rightchik - I am right wing and consider myself a chick - all hips, lips and t*ts! I glory in my feminity and thank the gods every day for the blessing of being brought into this world as a woman.
CFM shoe feminist - well for those of you who don't know that acronym CFM stands for Come F*** Me. I wear shoes that are impossibly high, jeans that are scandalously tight and every top I own shows off an ample cleavage. My hair is long, black and always looks like I rolled out of bed. Pale skin, green eyes and lips that always have bright red lipstick on them. Think Snow White's evil twin. I think that the feminist movement of the 60s and 70s did a huge disservice to women in that it has robbed them of their greatest asset. Their feminity.
I don't need to wear a mannish suit for a man to take me seriously. I think the men I meet and work with are smart enough to listen to what I have to say before they pass judgement on me. And quite frankly if they are too busy looking at my t*ts to pay attention to what is being said then you can damn well bet that I am going to take advantage of that! And why shouldn't I?
And quite frankly I am tired of lefty women telling me that I am buying into male corporate oppression. No I am buying into the glorious divine goddess that I am who appreciates her beauty and honours the sacred feminine nature that is inherently mine!
So, there I am. I hope you will like what you read here.
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