Sunday, October 31, 2010
Let's Keep Our Eye On The Ball...
...David Chen!
Father Raymond J. de Souza: Chen victory a defeat for judicial bureaucracy
In the decades since the Donald Marshall case forced upon Canadians the realization that the criminal justice system could make terrible mistakes, the news of wrongful convictions has become rather more common. The latest news from British Columbia, that Ivan Henry was acquitted after spending 26 years in prison, is regrettably another case on a long list. Mr. Henry was not a model citizen before his arrest, but it still beggars belief that his forcible appearance in a police line-up, restrained by two officers, was not considered an obvious tainting of the process.
The police and crown prosecutors do not set out to throw innocent people in jail. Those who have even a passing familiarity with the system appreciate the good work our police and crowns do under difficult circumstances. A grateful citizenry is inclined to give the police and prosecutors the benefit of the doubt, yet the experience of recent years suggests that more careful scrutiny is in order.
The police and prosecutors comprise our criminal justice bureaucracy, and are not immune from the same temptations that all bureaucracies face – whether public sector, private sector, or even the world of churches, charities and non-profits. We know from many cases that the police and prosecutors can have institutional biases, be inclined to disregard or suppress evidence which challenges entrenched opinions, defend obtuse rules over common sense, engage in turf battles, cover up failings and resist attempts at reform.
The shameful conduct of the Vancouver RCMP in the death of Robert Dziekański and the subsequent falsehoods peddled to the incurious prosecutors were an example of the system at its worst, requiring as it did a judicial inquiry to tell the truth. Another judicial inquiry was required to sort out the horrific injustice of innocent Ontario parents – over a period of twenty years! – being falsely convicted of sexual assaulting and murdering their own children. It’s been two years since the release of that report, and it seems to have been forgotten. What should have shaken the criminal justice system to its foundations passed instead with no great consequences for the police and prosecutors at fault. And just weeks ago a judge found that police who illegally vetted potential jury lists – revealed by National Post reporting – really had done no harm.
When abuses of power are found in the criminal justice system, the response is often the classic bureaucratic one: Everything is in good order and whatever problems were exposed were isolated incidents of no great consequence.
Hence the significance of the David Chen case. Friday’s acquittal on all counts by a Toronto judge saved the system from becoming an international laughingstock. The ridicule of recent weeks heaped upon the police and the bewilderingly out-of-touch prosecutors had been rightly deserved. The interventions of the crown prosecutor, Eugene McDermott were utterly fantastical, as if David Chen were a vigilante spraying gunfire in the streets rather than a hardworking grocer who simply held a rebellious miscreant for five minutes until police arrived.
Why then was David Chen tried at all, let alone with the inflammatory rhetoric of the prosecution? Why would the prosecutors stoop so low as to cut a deal with a lifetime shoplifter, Anthony Bennett, to procure the testimony of a serial liar against a by-all-accounts honest immigrant entrepreneur? This was driven by an apparent bureaucratic instinct for self-defence, rather than any concern for Mr. Chen’s right to defend himself and his property.
The Chen case showed up the ineffectiveness of the police regarding shoplifting, as Mr. Bennett has been robbing Chinatown merchants for years. The police have their turf, and even when unable to keep it secure, they want no competition from citizen’s arrests. The prosecutors were happy to go along with this, likely thinking that a Chinese grocer was no match for their almost limitless power. So they did to Mr. Chen what bureaucracies often do, bring down the full weight of their power on an individual, counting on him to roll over and concede rather than fight back. Hence the ludicrous kidnapping charge they originally filed, before public outrage forced them to back down.
Mr. Chen decided to fight. Facing prosecutorial overkill, he declined to plea it out and go away quietly. A city and a country fed up with bureaucracies grinding up citizens rallied to Mr. Chen’s side.
Mr. Chen has been rightfully acquitted. The lesson though should remain – a badge and a gown do not prevent bureaucratic foolishness and abuse of power.
National Post
Father Raymond J. de Souza: Chen victory a defeat for judicial bureaucracy
In the decades since the Donald Marshall case forced upon Canadians the realization that the criminal justice system could make terrible mistakes, the news of wrongful convictions has become rather more common. The latest news from British Columbia, that Ivan Henry was acquitted after spending 26 years in prison, is regrettably another case on a long list. Mr. Henry was not a model citizen before his arrest, but it still beggars belief that his forcible appearance in a police line-up, restrained by two officers, was not considered an obvious tainting of the process.
The police and crown prosecutors do not set out to throw innocent people in jail. Those who have even a passing familiarity with the system appreciate the good work our police and crowns do under difficult circumstances. A grateful citizenry is inclined to give the police and prosecutors the benefit of the doubt, yet the experience of recent years suggests that more careful scrutiny is in order.
The police and prosecutors comprise our criminal justice bureaucracy, and are not immune from the same temptations that all bureaucracies face – whether public sector, private sector, or even the world of churches, charities and non-profits. We know from many cases that the police and prosecutors can have institutional biases, be inclined to disregard or suppress evidence which challenges entrenched opinions, defend obtuse rules over common sense, engage in turf battles, cover up failings and resist attempts at reform.
The shameful conduct of the Vancouver RCMP in the death of Robert Dziekański and the subsequent falsehoods peddled to the incurious prosecutors were an example of the system at its worst, requiring as it did a judicial inquiry to tell the truth. Another judicial inquiry was required to sort out the horrific injustice of innocent Ontario parents – over a period of twenty years! – being falsely convicted of sexual assaulting and murdering their own children. It’s been two years since the release of that report, and it seems to have been forgotten. What should have shaken the criminal justice system to its foundations passed instead with no great consequences for the police and prosecutors at fault. And just weeks ago a judge found that police who illegally vetted potential jury lists – revealed by National Post reporting – really had done no harm.
When abuses of power are found in the criminal justice system, the response is often the classic bureaucratic one: Everything is in good order and whatever problems were exposed were isolated incidents of no great consequence.
Hence the significance of the David Chen case. Friday’s acquittal on all counts by a Toronto judge saved the system from becoming an international laughingstock. The ridicule of recent weeks heaped upon the police and the bewilderingly out-of-touch prosecutors had been rightly deserved. The interventions of the crown prosecutor, Eugene McDermott were utterly fantastical, as if David Chen were a vigilante spraying gunfire in the streets rather than a hardworking grocer who simply held a rebellious miscreant for five minutes until police arrived.
Why then was David Chen tried at all, let alone with the inflammatory rhetoric of the prosecution? Why would the prosecutors stoop so low as to cut a deal with a lifetime shoplifter, Anthony Bennett, to procure the testimony of a serial liar against a by-all-accounts honest immigrant entrepreneur? This was driven by an apparent bureaucratic instinct for self-defence, rather than any concern for Mr. Chen’s right to defend himself and his property.
The Chen case showed up the ineffectiveness of the police regarding shoplifting, as Mr. Bennett has been robbing Chinatown merchants for years. The police have their turf, and even when unable to keep it secure, they want no competition from citizen’s arrests. The prosecutors were happy to go along with this, likely thinking that a Chinese grocer was no match for their almost limitless power. So they did to Mr. Chen what bureaucracies often do, bring down the full weight of their power on an individual, counting on him to roll over and concede rather than fight back. Hence the ludicrous kidnapping charge they originally filed, before public outrage forced them to back down.
Mr. Chen decided to fight. Facing prosecutorial overkill, he declined to plea it out and go away quietly. A city and a country fed up with bureaucracies grinding up citizens rallied to Mr. Chen’s side.
Mr. Chen has been rightfully acquitted. The lesson though should remain – a badge and a gown do not prevent bureaucratic foolishness and abuse of power.
National Post
Rex Murphy: Mid-terms touch on American despair
The U.S. mid-term elections scheduled for Tuesday promise to yield a tectonic realignment of political forces in the world’s superpower as it struggles with economic decline, an unresponsive and incompetent political class, and a President largely out of touch with the concerns of mainstream Americans.
Polls suggest we will witness a vast repudiation of President Barack Obama’s first two years in office. Just to give one indication of how lopsided the results are expected to be: A recent poll highlighted nearly 100 Congressional seats in play, i.e. seats in which the incumbent faces a real challenge or likely defeat. Of those seats, 90% now are held by a Democrat.
These midterms are primarily a referendum on Barack Obama, his policies and persona. It is the man in the White House, the interventionist policies he introduced, and the bullying, defiant, and unseemly manner of getting them passed that have roiled a large part of the American electorate.
The passage of Obamacare was one of the most unsightly exercises of partisan willfulness, venality, and plain confusion in the history of American politics. Only the ideologues in Obama’s own party welcomed it — or at least tolerated it for the party’s sake. Obamacare may just be more unpopular now than it was when it became law. Obama made health reform his priority when the country instead was screaming — as it still is — about creating jobs.
Read More »
Kevin Libin: Carville predicts a punchout
The U.S. mid-term elections scheduled for Tuesday promise to yield a tectonic realignment of political forces in the world’s superpower as it struggles with economic decline, an unresponsive and incompetent political class, and a President largely out of touch with the concerns of mainstream Americans.
Polls suggest we will witness a vast repudiation of President Barack Obama’s first two years in office. Just to give one indication of how lopsided the results are expected to be: A recent poll highlighted nearly 100 Congressional seats in play, i.e. seats in which the incumbent faces a real challenge or likely defeat. Of those seats, 90% now are held by a Democrat.
These midterms are primarily a referendum on Barack Obama, his policies and persona. It is the man in the White House, the interventionist policies he introduced, and the bullying, defiant, and unseemly manner of getting them passed that have roiled a large part of the American electorate.
The passage of Obamacare was one of the most unsightly exercises of partisan willfulness, venality, and plain confusion in the history of American politics. Only the ideologues in Obama’s own party welcomed it — or at least tolerated it for the party’s sake. Obamacare may just be more unpopular now than it was when it became law. Obama made health reform his priority when the country instead was screaming — as it still is — about creating jobs.
Read More »
Kevin Libin: Carville predicts a punchout
My Decision...
One sickening night
Jonathan Kay: Halloween, once reserved for children, has followed me into middle age like some kind of spectre. Sometime in the 1990s, it was decided that adults should put on costumes, too — even in the workplace
Read More
...Up Yours!
Jonathan Kay: Halloween, once reserved for children, has followed me into middle age like some kind of spectre. Sometime in the 1990s, it was decided that adults should put on costumes, too — even in the workplace
Read More
...Up Yours!
Advocates Creating A Three Tier Society...
..."first nations, you and I and now "freemen. Does their movement extend the same rights they advocate to women and the other members of our designated groups? Do they have a 911 system for their police and fire departments? If one of the members breaks their laws do they have a court and prison system?
Who are Canada's 'freemen'?
When Mika Rasila got pulled over by Niagara police in January for driving his white Pontiac Montana without licence plates, he was ready with a defence: he doesn’t need plates because he’s a Freeman on the Land.
When Mika Rasila got pulled over by Niagara police in January for driving his white Pontiac Montana without licence plates, he was ready with a defence: he doesn’t need plates because he’s a Freeman on the Land.
How About This...
Reforming council: Cut it in half or elect it at large?
* Term Limits
* Contract out management of city departments
* Reduce Councilors and limit their duties to picking up the garbage, keeping the city clean, etc.
* Elected Board Of Control with recall proviso
* Term Limits
* Contract out management of city departments
* Reduce Councilors and limit their duties to picking up the garbage, keeping the city clean, etc.
* Elected Board Of Control with recall proviso
Tch! Tch! So Your Leftwing Elitists Didn't Get Elected...
...more appropriate than the image the leftwing media has presented over the last seven years:
Message Is Clear...
...to Miller supporters:
* inept beauracrats
* city unions
* waterfront condo owners and downtown elitists
* ndp island squatters
* social in-activists
* panhandlers
* green conmen
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Freedom Of The Press...
...it seems to be more about the presenter than the message.
Major Media Far More Interested in Jon Stewart's Rally Than Glenn Beck's
By: Lachlan Markay October 29, 2010 16:46
Journalists are practically giddy in anticipation of this weekend's Jon Stewart rally on the National Mall. The Rally's staff has recieved more than 1,000 requests for press credentials for the event. Only 400 were given out.
Those statistics underscore just how much the media loves Stewart's leftist message (and it is a leftist message). For some perspective, consider that the September 12, 2010 Tea Party on the Mall received roughly 150 requests for press credentials, according to FreedomWorks, which sponsored the event.
Read More
Iggy/Layton Scared Of An Election?
Yes, yes. Whatever you say, Jack. Of course.
Baglow: the Librocon coalition
October 29, 2010 – 9:23 am
Thanks to the sleazy Librocons, private member’s Bill C-300 went down to defeat. Former human rights advocate and American ex-pat Michael Ignatieff arranged to be out of the House of Commons for the vote, and he took twelve disciples with him.
That was sufficient to kill the Bill: even if the four absent New Democrats (and I’d like an accounting here) had been present, the Bill would have lost 140-139. Liberal Whip Marcel Proulx is reported to have told Liberal members to stay away.
The Bill was meant to ensure that Canadian mining companies guilty of human rights or environmental abuses would be denied funding by Ottawa. Bankers and the mining industry cried bloody murder, of course, and their Librocon shills dutifully fell into line.
We can’t have human rights and the environment getting in the way of corporate profits–don’t the bleeding hearts realize that? Who cares if a bunch of Third World types are assaulted or killed for trying to form unions? Who cares if their countries are buried under toxic mine tailings? Not our problem, and there are no voters in that neck of the woods.
October 29, 2010 – 9:23 am
Thanks to the sleazy Librocons, private member’s Bill C-300 went down to defeat. Former human rights advocate and American ex-pat Michael Ignatieff arranged to be out of the House of Commons for the vote, and he took twelve disciples with him.
That was sufficient to kill the Bill: even if the four absent New Democrats (and I’d like an accounting here) had been present, the Bill would have lost 140-139. Liberal Whip Marcel Proulx is reported to have told Liberal members to stay away.
The Bill was meant to ensure that Canadian mining companies guilty of human rights or environmental abuses would be denied funding by Ottawa. Bankers and the mining industry cried bloody murder, of course, and their Librocon shills dutifully fell into line.
We can’t have human rights and the environment getting in the way of corporate profits–don’t the bleeding hearts realize that? Who cares if a bunch of Third World types are assaulted or killed for trying to form unions? Who cares if their countries are buried under toxic mine tailings? Not our problem, and there are no voters in that neck of the woods.
Too High An Expectation...
Kelly McParland October 29, 2010 – 10:29 am
The Los Angeles Times recently documented the furor that broke out when the city’s mayor, a bicycle fan, set out to expand the network of bike lanes. The mayor, Antonio Villaraigosa, grew especially determined after a cab cut him off while he was on his bike, and he hurt his elbow.
A month later, the mayor convened a bike summit, ordered up hundreds of bike safety posters and promised to beef up construction of designated paths for his two-wheeled comrades. Within weeks street crews were hard at work — some on overtime and furlough days — painting bike logos along two miles of Wilbur Avenue.
Problem was, people in the neighbourhood hadn’t asked for them, and didn’t want them.
The Los Angeles Times recently documented the furor that broke out when the city’s mayor, a bicycle fan, set out to expand the network of bike lanes. The mayor, Antonio Villaraigosa, grew especially determined after a cab cut him off while he was on his bike, and he hurt his elbow.
A month later, the mayor convened a bike summit, ordered up hundreds of bike safety posters and promised to beef up construction of designated paths for his two-wheeled comrades. Within weeks street crews were hard at work — some on overtime and furlough days — painting bike logos along two miles of Wilbur Avenue.
Problem was, people in the neighbourhood hadn’t asked for them, and didn’t want them.
Awakening Of Minority Groups...
Diversity bites back
By MICHAEL COREN, QMI Agency
Now that a few days have passed and the cliches have been exhausted, can we please explain what really happened in Toronto this week?
...to the reality that it is their hard earned tax $$$ that go to pay for political barbeques, cultural events, etc.
By MICHAEL COREN, QMI Agency
Now that a few days have passed and the cliches have been exhausted, can we please explain what really happened in Toronto this week?
...to the reality that it is their hard earned tax $$$ that go to pay for political barbeques, cultural events, etc.
Ford Working Behind The Scene?
Sale of city-owned homes in limbo
By TERRY DAVIDSON, Toronto Sun
A controversial deal to sell 20 city-owned homes to a Native social housing group at bargain-basement prices is in limbo.
By TERRY DAVIDSON, Toronto Sun
A controversial deal to sell 20 city-owned homes to a Native social housing group at bargain-basement prices is in limbo.
Comrade Miller/Adam Vaughan Legacy...
City's Peter St. shelter finally opens
By SUE-ANN LEVY, City Hall Columnist
Last Updated: October 29, 2010 8:06pm
Story
Comments
Some 40 long months and $11.5-million later, the Homeless Hilton on Peter St. finally opened its doors for business Thursday night.
Phil Brown, the city’s general manager of shelter, support and housing, said Friday some 13 homeless clients have been through the 40-bed shelter and assessment centre since the doors opened at 6 p.m. Thursday night.
He said they’re not yet operating 24-7 but once they are, there will be five services offered out of the Peter St. building, including a 24-hour “respite” service for street people, overnight assistance for those seeking to be referred to a shelter and “outreach” for any business in the Entertainment District that has an issue with a homeless person or a panhandler.
He said the 40 beds will be called “transition to housing beds” to fit with the city’s Streets to Homes mandate.
“It’s all about ending street homelessness and helping to get people into homes,” Brown said, referring to private apartments or publicly-funded affordable housing.
The shelter and assessment and referral centre — which went more than 100% over budget — was the subject of a highly critical report by Toronto’s auditor general, Jeff Griffiths, released in late June.
Griffiths’ report intimated that everything that could go wrong did go wrong with the Peter St. project.
He indicated when the report was released that no clear city official was in charge of the project.
Almost $1-million was spent for the building’s rooftop smoking area, garden and solar “flowers”.
A $789,000 elevator proposed for the shelter has yet to be installed.
By SUE-ANN LEVY, City Hall Columnist
Last Updated: October 29, 2010 8:06pm
Story
Comments
Some 40 long months and $11.5-million later, the Homeless Hilton on Peter St. finally opened its doors for business Thursday night.
Phil Brown, the city’s general manager of shelter, support and housing, said Friday some 13 homeless clients have been through the 40-bed shelter and assessment centre since the doors opened at 6 p.m. Thursday night.
He said they’re not yet operating 24-7 but once they are, there will be five services offered out of the Peter St. building, including a 24-hour “respite” service for street people, overnight assistance for those seeking to be referred to a shelter and “outreach” for any business in the Entertainment District that has an issue with a homeless person or a panhandler.
He said the 40 beds will be called “transition to housing beds” to fit with the city’s Streets to Homes mandate.
“It’s all about ending street homelessness and helping to get people into homes,” Brown said, referring to private apartments or publicly-funded affordable housing.
The shelter and assessment and referral centre — which went more than 100% over budget — was the subject of a highly critical report by Toronto’s auditor general, Jeff Griffiths, released in late June.
Griffiths’ report intimated that everything that could go wrong did go wrong with the Peter St. project.
He indicated when the report was released that no clear city official was in charge of the project.
Almost $1-million was spent for the building’s rooftop smoking area, garden and solar “flowers”.
A $789,000 elevator proposed for the shelter has yet to be installed.
Pic Says It All...
'Vigilante grocer' found not guilty
By SAM PAZZANO, Courts Bureau
By SAM PAZZANO, Courts Bureau
Judge finds grocer David Chen not guilty
Peter Kuitenbrouwer: In a cliffhanger ruling that mixed references to film noir and pulp fiction, Mr. Justice Ramez Khawly took two hours this morning to get to his ruling: David Chen is not guilty on all charges
Peter Kuitenbrouwer: In a cliffhanger ruling that mixed references to film noir and pulp fiction, Mr. Justice Ramez Khawly took two hours this morning to get to his ruling: David Chen is not guilty on all charges
...who will compensate Chen for the costs involved in this debacle?
Friday, October 29, 2010
Will Latte/Cappacino Dens Go Underground...
...while the camo/sandal denizens plot to regain their stature four years from now under the banner of Adam Vaughan
Police Services Under Scrutinty By THE STAR Again...
...but in retrospect they need to maintain their leftwing readers after their choice in the Toronto mayorality race got his ass kicked.
SIU cases: Unequal justice for the police
Fri Oct 29 2010
SIU investigators have been remarkably quick to clear suspected officers
SIU cases: Unequal justice for the police
Fri Oct 29 2010
SIU investigators have been remarkably quick to clear suspected officers
Another Example Of Canada's Charitable Nature...
“What’s happened in the United States is that the kids are protected,” says Richard Florida. Not so in Toronto.
...one of the easiest costumes to duplicate was the tramp/hobo/beggar costumes and this might be the reason for institutionalizing begging and homelessness so possibly wearing ethnic costumes might lead to harmony among the races.
Waterfront Condo Owners, NDP Island Squatters, Social In-Activists...
...Environuts, Artsy/Fartsys dropped the ball. At the risk of being labelled, and my facetious outlook being igored, is there a hidden message/agenda, that Snivelman's support is from pink areas?
If you are looking for the deep secret behind Rob Ford’s victory in Toronto’s mayoralty race, look no further than the amazing map above.
The pink area (i.e. the entire downtown) voted for George Smitherman.
Rob Ford, Mike Harris’s gift to Toronto
October 28, 2010 – 2:15 pm
October 28, 2010 – 2:15 pm
If you are looking for the deep secret behind Rob Ford’s victory in Toronto’s mayoralty race, look no further than the amazing map above.
The blue area (i.e. the entire suburbs) voted for Rob Ford.
The pink area (i.e. the entire downtown) voted for George Smitherman.
He Would Be An Asset To The Ford Team...
Rocco Rossi's not done yet: Levy
By SUE-ANN LEVY, Toronto Sun
Rocco Rossi is not at all surprised Rob Ford won the mayoralty by a landslide.
By SUE-ANN LEVY, Toronto Sun
Rocco Rossi is not at all surprised Rob Ford won the mayoralty by a landslide.
Warmington Asks A Valid Question...
Housing sale a test for Ford
By JOE WARMINGTON, Toronto Sun
Mayor-elect Rob Ford smells a rat and just may have set his first trap.
Meanwhile it’s Toronto citizens who own these abandoned homes and it’s Toronto taxpayers who should get full value for them. Ford should also demand Nakamura to tell how it is one of North America’s largest housing agencies could allow these homes to sit derelict for so long and become
condemned?
LR Report Comment
October 29th 2010, 5:46am
While Ford is there he should ask about the guy in charge of the elevators that works about 1 hour a day. And about perfectly good and working appliances that are replaced frequently. And why TCHC doesn't evict tenants that are knowingly trashing and vandalising the property, and throwing their garbage over the balcony onto the ground below, to make way for people that would respect where they live. And about people that are using their toilets as washing machines. And about a rule that encourages people to have more children because they will be given larger apartments or even townhouses.
By JOE WARMINGTON, Toronto Sun
Mayor-elect Rob Ford smells a rat and just may have set his first trap.
Meanwhile it’s Toronto citizens who own these abandoned homes and it’s Toronto taxpayers who should get full value for them. Ford should also demand Nakamura to tell how it is one of North America’s largest housing agencies could allow these homes to sit derelict for so long and become
condemned?
Behind Toronto's real estate sale
The city is under fire after a bargain-basement real estate sale that saw the city sell off 20 homes for a fraction of their $8 million value.
LR Report Comment
October 29th 2010, 5:46am
While Ford is there he should ask about the guy in charge of the elevators that works about 1 hour a day. And about perfectly good and working appliances that are replaced frequently. And why TCHC doesn't evict tenants that are knowingly trashing and vandalising the property, and throwing their garbage over the balcony onto the ground below, to make way for people that would respect where they live. And about people that are using their toilets as washing machines. And about a rule that encourages people to have more children because they will be given larger apartments or even townhouses.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Isn't This The Reason We Went To Afganistan...
...and it looks like once again politicians lose sight of the objective and our Highway Of Heroes becomes the Highway Of Jokers! F*@king disgrace!
Too Many Don't Give The Electorate Credit For Doing The Right Thing...
October 27, 2010 – 10:42 am
Carolyn Parrish has an amazing way of wearing out her welcome.
It took 13 years in Ottawa for the one-time backbench MP to get herself ejected from the Liberal Party caucus after bad-mouthing her party leader and making an ass of herself on national television by stomping on a George Bush doll.
“I have absolutely no loyalty to this team, none,” she declared at the time.
Unwelcome in Ottawa, she turned to municipal politics in Mississauga, where Hazel McCallion has ruled supreme since approximately the Paleolithic Age. There’s an argument to be made that McCallion has stayed on too long — she was 89 when re-elected this week — but rather than challenge her by working diligently to establish a solid record of achievement, Parrish went the George Bush doll route again. Read More
Carolyn Parrish has an amazing way of wearing out her welcome.
It took 13 years in Ottawa for the one-time backbench MP to get herself ejected from the Liberal Party caucus after bad-mouthing her party leader and making an ass of herself on national television by stomping on a George Bush doll.
“I have absolutely no loyalty to this team, none,” she declared at the time.
Unwelcome in Ottawa, she turned to municipal politics in Mississauga, where Hazel McCallion has ruled supreme since approximately the Paleolithic Age. There’s an argument to be made that McCallion has stayed on too long — she was 89 when re-elected this week — but rather than challenge her by working diligently to establish a solid record of achievement, Parrish went the George Bush doll route again. Read More
Turning "Religion" Into Fashion...
October 27, 2010 – 11:27 am
People tend to go into serious policy-discussion mode when talk turns to the hijab. As a form of covering for Muslim women, the hijab is seen as an object of subjugation — a way for men to impose a sense of servitude and modesty upon their wives, sisters and daughters.
The trouble is, it’s hard to maintain a sense of either gravitas or moral outrage about the subject when you come across websites like Hijab Style, which features all manner of colorful, flashy and fashion-forward hijabs — and the usual fluffy style/fashion blather you’d find at any mainstream fashion site. There are even the requisite runway shots (attention everyone, MaxMara’s showing maxi skirts this fall!) and over-priced clothing finds (a long-sleeved tunic for $78). The only oppression of women that comes to mind is that imposed by high-end designers and fashion mag editors who make us feel that we must look like garbage if we don’t have a $20,000 clothing budget — which seems a different issue entirely. Read More »
The trouble is, it’s hard to maintain a sense of either gravitas or moral outrage about the subject when you come across websites like Hijab Style, which features all manner of colorful, flashy and fashion-forward hijabs — and the usual fluffy style/fashion blather you’d find at any mainstream fashion site. There are even the requisite runway shots (attention everyone, MaxMara’s showing maxi skirts this fall!) and over-priced clothing finds (a long-sleeved tunic for $78). The only oppression of women that comes to mind is that imposed by high-end designers and fashion mag editors who make us feel that we must look like garbage if we don’t have a $20,000 clothing budget — which seems a different issue entirely. Read More »
A Fine Line Between Moderate And Extremist...
JUST JOKING... CAN COMEDIAN SAVE THE VOTE?
Obama's dumb 'DAILY SHOW' appearance
President Obama skewered by Jon Stewart in 'Daily Show' interview
Anne Applebaum: The disappearance of moderate moderates
October 27, 2010 – 3:37 pm
My heart sank when I read about Jon Stewart’s Million Moderate March planned for the National Mall next weekend. My heart sank further when I learned that liberal groups have decided to take this endeavour seriously.
It’s bad enough that the only way to drum up enthusiasm for a Rally To Restore Sanity is to make it into a TV comedian’s joke. But it’s far worse that the “moderates” in attendance will have been bused in by Arianna Huffington and organized by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.
Read More »
Optimism grows over Ford's election
Peter Kuitenbrouwer: Wednesday I pedaled over to Kensington Market, epicentre of operations for besieged sophisticates, to gauge the mood. Lo and behold, people are optimistic — even calling Mr. Ford’s election an opportunity
...I don't think you will find a more diverse mix of people and they come from all parts of the city.
Kelly McParland: Latte futures plummet as Toronto contemplates Ford mayoralty
...invest your money in Tim Hortons, Country Style.
Dan Arnold: One right-wing mayor won't change Toronto forever
...I will accept a little tilt to the right where I can walk 100 yards downtown without being accosted by a panhandler or homeless person, where I hear about a beauracrat/department head being fired when there are screwups in tendered work, where people on social assistance contribute a few hours a week to help cleanup their neighborhood, where as a citizen I am allowed to help beautify my neighborhood without having the unions hollering and screaming, where councillors hold an all day open house every month where their constituents can go and bitch, etc.
Peter Kuitenbrouwer: Wednesday I pedaled over to Kensington Market, epicentre of operations for besieged sophisticates, to gauge the mood. Lo and behold, people are optimistic — even calling Mr. Ford’s election an opportunity
...I don't think you will find a more diverse mix of people and they come from all parts of the city.
Kelly McParland: Latte futures plummet as Toronto contemplates Ford mayoralty
...invest your money in Tim Hortons, Country Style.
Dan Arnold: One right-wing mayor won't change Toronto forever
...I will accept a little tilt to the right where I can walk 100 yards downtown without being accosted by a panhandler or homeless person, where I hear about a beauracrat/department head being fired when there are screwups in tendered work, where people on social assistance contribute a few hours a week to help cleanup their neighborhood, where as a citizen I am allowed to help beautify my neighborhood without having the unions hollering and screaming, where councillors hold an all day open house every month where their constituents can go and bitch, etc.
Iggy Moment...
Just in case you are asking Iggy Who!Ottawa's big red control freaks
Don Martin: The new control freaks on Parliament Hill are a Liberal party where freedoms of expression, dissension and individual legislation have been stripped away in a series of bizarre moves by the party leadership
Lorne Gunter: Liberals defend sanctity of free speech for themselves only
Don Martin: The new control freaks on Parliament Hill are a Liberal party where freedoms of expression, dissension and individual legislation have been stripped away in a series of bizarre moves by the party leadership
Lorne Gunter: Liberals defend sanctity of free speech for themselves only
Where Is The Fairness In A Two Tier Society...
...I was under the impression that "indian affairs" are the responsibility of the federal and provincial governments and they use our tax $$$ to assist the indians so I don't understand why the citizens of Toronto are expected to lose $$$ to provide housing.
Native families in need of social housing
The lack of social housing for Toronto’s Native community has been a chronic problem for years, says Wigwamen director Angus Palmer.
...denial of housing to persons who have bought their homes, maintain their homes and pay taxes. What about the needs of taxpayers in Caledonia?
Helpless in Caledonia: Worthington
By Peter Worthington
A lot of us have watched goings-on at Caledonia since 2006 when protestors from the nearby Six Nations reserve began blocking development and behaving in a manner that if others had done it, they’d be arrested.
...and while the indians are crying poverty:
Sask. First Nations to bid for Potash Corp
...they will be competing against a $38B takeover bid but they can't provide housing for their members.
Native families in need of social housing
The lack of social housing for Toronto’s Native community has been a chronic problem for years, says Wigwamen director Angus Palmer.
...denial of housing to persons who have bought their homes, maintain their homes and pay taxes. What about the needs of taxpayers in Caledonia?
Helpless in Caledonia: Worthington
By Peter Worthington
A lot of us have watched goings-on at Caledonia since 2006 when protestors from the nearby Six Nations reserve began blocking development and behaving in a manner that if others had done it, they’d be arrested.
...and while the indians are crying poverty:
Sask. First Nations to bid for Potash Corp
...they will be competing against a $38B takeover bid but they can't provide housing for their members.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
New Version Of "I Am Selling Some Land In Florida..."
Nearly all "green" consumer products make one false, misleading or unproven environmental claim to attract eco-conscious shoppers, a new study has found.
IMHO She Would Have A Hard Time...
...getting invited to one of the daily Tim Horton morning coffee klatches held across Canada.
The Spew: Joy Behar adds another conservative “bitch” to her hate list
October 26, 2010 12:29 PM by Michelle Malkin
78 Comments
8 Trackbacks
The Spew: Joy Behar adds another conservative “bitch” to her hate list
October 26, 2010 12:29 PM by Michelle Malkin
78 Comments
8 Trackbacks
Free Speech...
...but only if you are a leftist and/or a member of one of the designated or religious groups.
Free speech a lost concept in Canada -- again
We read:
"Strictly Right sent out a press release earlier today to Canadian media with some rather startling news about the upcoming Mark Steyn speech in London, Ontario that we’re putting together. Mark Steyn will be speaking on November 1st in a speech entitled “Head for the Hills: Why everything in your world is doomed.” Apparently, London-area Muslims didn’t like that idea too much.
Due to capacity constraints at the University of Western Ontario, the original venue for the event, we had booked the London Convention Centre (LCC,) London’s premiere conference facility. On Tuesday, I received a phone call from the LCC telling us that our venue had been pulled, and that Mark Steyn would not be permitted to speak there. The reason offered by the LCC was that they had received pressure from local Islamic groups, and they didn’t want to alienate their Muslim clients. It’s interesting to note that the LCC is owned by the City of London, and is therefore a government operation.
It’s interesting that a government-run business decided that freedom of speech was no longer a concept to be upheld.
Source
Posted by jonjayray
Free speech a lost concept in Canada -- again
We read:
"Strictly Right sent out a press release earlier today to Canadian media with some rather startling news about the upcoming Mark Steyn speech in London, Ontario that we’re putting together. Mark Steyn will be speaking on November 1st in a speech entitled “Head for the Hills: Why everything in your world is doomed.” Apparently, London-area Muslims didn’t like that idea too much.
Due to capacity constraints at the University of Western Ontario, the original venue for the event, we had booked the London Convention Centre (LCC,) London’s premiere conference facility. On Tuesday, I received a phone call from the LCC telling us that our venue had been pulled, and that Mark Steyn would not be permitted to speak there. The reason offered by the LCC was that they had received pressure from local Islamic groups, and they didn’t want to alienate their Muslim clients. It’s interesting to note that the LCC is owned by the City of London, and is therefore a government operation.
It’s interesting that a government-run business decided that freedom of speech was no longer a concept to be upheld.
Source
Posted by jonjayray
Get full story...
CHICAGO: 'Glitch' with vote-by-mail system; Hundreds of thousands of voters may be disenfranchised...
UPDATE: Tensions flare offstage at KY debate; Dem supporter steps on foot of woman wearing surgical boot...
ANTI-REPUBLICAN PROTESTER STOMPED...
Bill Clinton: 'It's What Happened To Me In 94'...
SHOCK POLL: OBAMA HITS 37 APPROVAL...
Dem candidates shun president...
DEMS HAVE OUTSPENT GOP IN ELECTION, EVEN WHEN OUTSIDE SPENDING INCLUDED...
Fiorina Admitted to Hospital for Infection...
WH bristles over top Republicans remarks...
REALCLEAR WRAP: SENATE HOUSE...
ABCNEWS NOTE MIKE ALLEN PLAYBOOK MSNBC FIRST READ WASH POST RUNDOWN...
CHICAGO: 'Glitch' with vote-by-mail system; Hundreds of thousands of voters may be disenfranchised...
UPDATE: Tensions flare offstage at KY debate; Dem supporter steps on foot of woman wearing surgical boot...
ANTI-REPUBLICAN PROTESTER STOMPED...
Bill Clinton: 'It's What Happened To Me In 94'...
SHOCK POLL: OBAMA HITS 37 APPROVAL...
Dem candidates shun president...
DEMS HAVE OUTSPENT GOP IN ELECTION, EVEN WHEN OUTSIDE SPENDING INCLUDED...
Fiorina Admitted to Hospital for Infection...
WH bristles over top Republicans remarks...
REALCLEAR WRAP: SENATE HOUSE...
ABCNEWS NOTE MIKE ALLEN PLAYBOOK MSNBC FIRST READ WASH POST RUNDOWN...
Your Tax Dollars At Work...
...but not for you but rather for social in-activists.
Rights group tripled fees paid to consultants after cutback vow
After promising to clean up spending practices at Rights and Democracy, directors of the federally funded human-rights centre have overseen a tripling of the amount paid to consultants.
Never-used whistleblower panel has an $8.1-million budget
Tribunal hasn't heard a single case since it was set up in 2007. A little-known, never-used government tribunal will spend as much as $8.1 million of taxpayers' money by the end of 2012-13, federal documents show.
Rights group tripled fees paid to consultants after cutback vow
After promising to clean up spending practices at Rights and Democracy, directors of the federally funded human-rights centre have overseen a tripling of the amount paid to consultants.
Never-used whistleblower panel has an $8.1-million budget
Tribunal hasn't heard a single case since it was set up in 2007. A little-known, never-used government tribunal will spend as much as $8.1 million of taxpayers' money by the end of 2012-13, federal documents show.
Hail Gore And Suzuki...
Study finds most 'green product' claims misleading
Nearly all "green" consumer products make one false, misleading or unproven environmental claim to attract eco-conscious shoppers, a new study has found.
REDUCING ENVIRONMENTAL FOOTPRINT THE RIGHT THING TO DO
Nearly all "green" consumer products make one false, misleading or unproven environmental claim to attract eco-conscious shoppers, a new study has found.
REDUCING ENVIRONMENTAL FOOTPRINT THE RIGHT THING TO DO
An Honest Appraisal...
Smitherman has lost more than the mayor’s chair
Radwanski: He can be petty. He can be a bully. He’s a career politician who fights with his elbows out and has made life miserable for more than his share of adversaries, not to mention members of his own staff. In short, George.. MORE...
Radwanski: He can be petty. He can be a bully. He’s a career politician who fights with his elbows out and has made life miserable for more than his share of adversaries, not to mention members of his own staff. In short, George.. MORE...
If It Had Been A Conservative Minister...
...the leftwing nutbars would be calling for his head.
Ontario minister apologizes for tweet accusing Rob Ford, Stephen Harper of bigotry
Ontario cabinet minister Glen Murray has apologized for a tweet accusing Toronto's newly-elected mayor Rob Ford, Ontario Progressive Conservative Leader Tim Hudak and Prime Minister Stephen Harper of bigotry
Ontario minister apologizes for tweet accusing Rob Ford, Stephen Harper of bigotry
Ontario cabinet minister Glen Murray has apologized for a tweet accusing Toronto's newly-elected mayor Rob Ford, Ontario Progressive Conservative Leader Tim Hudak and Prime Minister Stephen Harper of bigotry
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
50% Turnout In Toronto...
...this concept should be enshrined in the Criminal Code with penalties ranging from being barred from Timmies/Starbucks to being removed from the invitation list to leftwing summer bar-b-ques.
NOT Items Ford Needs To Put On His Plate...
More anti-Toronto discrimination
If you add Chantal Hebert‘s column today (Where are the big-city women mayors?) to the Star’s discovery last week that Toronto goalies are being discrimnated against by the NHL, you get this inescapable conclusion: There is not a single Toronto woman playing goal in the NHL.
Makes you think, eh?
If you add Chantal Hebert‘s column today (Where are the big-city women mayors?) to the Star’s discovery last week that Toronto goalies are being discrimnated against by the NHL, you get this inescapable conclusion: There is not a single Toronto woman playing goal in the NHL.
Makes you think, eh?
How Much MORE Damage Can He Do In The Coming Year?
Liar! Liar! Pants On Fire!
Spendthrift McGuinty
If recent polls are any indication, Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty and his Liberal government face a steep uphill battle as they prime themselves for an October election in 2011. Currently, three out of every four Ontarians feel it’s time for Premier McGuinty to go.
Can you blame them?
Since being elected in 2003, McGuinty has been nothing short of a disaster at managing Ontario’s finances and pursuing sound long-term economic policies. Thanks in large part to his policies, Ontarians have suffered through seven years of dismal economic performance.
Read more
Globe Editorial This budget scorecard was rigged
The Fraser Institute’s assertion that Premier Dalton McGuinty of Ontario is Canada’s worst provincial fiscal manager is misleading.
More Of A Travesty Than Sentencing Of Toronto 18 Leader...
Khadr trial: A travesty of justice
Tue Oct 26 2010
Canada’s notorious Omar Khadr finally buckled before a discredited American military tribunal and provided the guilty plea it was set up to elicit. But nothing like justice has been done in this wretched case.
Serving time in Canada would give Khadr a better chance of parole
Toronto 18 leader sentenced to 16 years in prison
Tue Oct 26 2010
Canada’s notorious Omar Khadr finally buckled before a discredited American military tribunal and provided the guilty plea it was set up to elicit. But nothing like justice has been done in this wretched case.
Serving time in Canada would give Khadr a better chance of parole
Toronto 18 leader sentenced to 16 years in prison
The EASY Part Is Finished...
...three perspectives:
SUE-ANN LEVY City Hall's broken, voters want it fixed
James: What happens now? Four turbulent years
I'm sorry, four perspectives; The Sun, The Star, The Globe and The Old Fart...
...and everyone is going to be watching Ford through a microscope, as they should be doing, and it will be interesting to see:
* the makeup of his Executive Committee
* who he appoints to head various committees; ie: TTC, etc.
* whether any beauracratic heads will roll
* how transparent and available politicos and beauracrats will be to voters and the media
* responses from Queen's Park and Ottawa.
Answers to these questions will be an appropriate Xmas gift to the voters...plum pudding or coal. I will be watching.
SUE-ANN LEVY City Hall's broken, voters want it fixed
James: What happens now? Four turbulent years
I'm sorry, four perspectives; The Sun, The Star, The Globe and The Old Fart...
...and everyone is going to be watching Ford through a microscope, as they should be doing, and it will be interesting to see:
* the makeup of his Executive Committee
* who he appoints to head various committees; ie: TTC, etc.
* whether any beauracratic heads will roll
* how transparent and available politicos and beauracrats will be to voters and the media
* responses from Queen's Park and Ottawa.
Answers to these questions will be an appropriate Xmas gift to the voters...plum pudding or coal. I will be watching.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Canada Gets Tough On Dealing With Potential Terrorists...
Toronto 18 leader sentenced to 16 years in prison
25/10/2010 3:47:28 PM
CTV.ca News Staff
Fahim Ahmad, the leader of the so-called Toronto 18, has been sentenced to 16 years in prison for his role in plotting to carry out terrorist attacks in Toronto.
Justice Fletcher Dawson awarded Ahmad credit of 8.5 years for time served, meaning he will be eligible for parole in 3.5 years.
...rewarded with twice the amount of time in custody
Last May, Ahmad changed his plea to guilty from not guilty on charges of participating in a terrorist group, supplying it with imported firearms and instructing his co-accused to carry out an activity for the group.
During his trial the court heard that the 26-year-old was the kingpin of a terror cell who organized two training camps to gauge the abilities of the cell's other members.
"He was one of the leaders of a terrorist group, and one of the organizers of a training camp held in December 2006," the Public Prosecution Service of Canada wrote in a statement following Ahmad's sentencing. "He intended to attack Parliament and various targets in Toronto.
One recording played in court captured Ahmad saying the group should go to Parliament to "cut off some heads" and "kill everybody."
The Crown argued that Ahmad had plotted to attack Parliament, electrical grids and nuclear power stations, and sought 18 years to life in prison. The defence asked for a 12-year jail sentence.
Ahmad was expressionless when the sentence was handed down but later turned around and smiled to supporters in the courtroom.
...certainly sounds contrite to me.
When handing down the sentence, Dawson said he took into account Ahmad's lack of a criminal record and his.
He noted that Ahmad wrote letters to his wife while imprisoned, telling her he met people of other religions and was growing more tolerant.
"I am not dealing with someone who remains openly defiant," Dawson said.
"Perhaps I'm only optimistic, but I see prospects of rehabilitation."
Dawson said he hoped Ahmad was serious about becoming less extreme in his views.
"Show me that I wasn't wrong in my assessment," the judge said.
If the judge is wrong he won't suffer the consequences...maybe he should bone up on the impact of terrorist attacks.
The case received media attention around the world when the suspects were arrested in 2006.
Of 18 people charged in the terrorism case, seven had their charges either dropped or stayed. Another four were found guilty. Seven others pleaded guilty.
Ahmad is among the last of the "Toronto 18" to be sentenced. Two more will be sentenced in November.
25/10/2010 3:47:28 PM
CTV.ca News Staff
Fahim Ahmad, the leader of the so-called Toronto 18, has been sentenced to 16 years in prison for his role in plotting to carry out terrorist attacks in Toronto.
Justice Fletcher Dawson awarded Ahmad credit of 8.5 years for time served, meaning he will be eligible for parole in 3.5 years.
...rewarded with twice the amount of time in custody
Last May, Ahmad changed his plea to guilty from not guilty on charges of participating in a terrorist group, supplying it with imported firearms and instructing his co-accused to carry out an activity for the group.
During his trial the court heard that the 26-year-old was the kingpin of a terror cell who organized two training camps to gauge the abilities of the cell's other members.
"He was one of the leaders of a terrorist group, and one of the organizers of a training camp held in December 2006," the Public Prosecution Service of Canada wrote in a statement following Ahmad's sentencing. "He intended to attack Parliament and various targets in Toronto.
One recording played in court captured Ahmad saying the group should go to Parliament to "cut off some heads" and "kill everybody."
The Crown argued that Ahmad had plotted to attack Parliament, electrical grids and nuclear power stations, and sought 18 years to life in prison. The defence asked for a 12-year jail sentence.
Ahmad was expressionless when the sentence was handed down but later turned around and smiled to supporters in the courtroom.
...certainly sounds contrite to me.
When handing down the sentence, Dawson said he took into account Ahmad's lack of a criminal record and his.
He noted that Ahmad wrote letters to his wife while imprisoned, telling her he met people of other religions and was growing more tolerant.
"I am not dealing with someone who remains openly defiant," Dawson said.
"Perhaps I'm only optimistic, but I see prospects of rehabilitation."
Dawson said he hoped Ahmad was serious about becoming less extreme in his views.
"Show me that I wasn't wrong in my assessment," the judge said.
If the judge is wrong he won't suffer the consequences...maybe he should bone up on the impact of terrorist attacks.
The case received media attention around the world when the suspects were arrested in 2006.
Of 18 people charged in the terrorism case, seven had their charges either dropped or stayed. Another four were found guilty. Seven others pleaded guilty.
Ahmad is among the last of the "Toronto 18" to be sentenced. Two more will be sentenced in November.
Another Example Of A Problem With Our Justice System...
...trials become media events and the accussed needs to live with this irregardless of whether they are found guilty or innocent. I would favour a media ban until the verdict is made.
CHRISTIE BLATCHFORDVictims should not rule our courtrooms
Oct 23, 2010 6:12AM EDT
If all our society wanted was justice for victims, we could mete it out ourselves, as they do in places like Afghanistan
CHRISTIE BLATCHFORDVictims should not rule our courtrooms
Oct 23, 2010 6:12AM EDT
If all our society wanted was justice for victims, we could mete it out ourselves, as they do in places like Afghanistan
Love And Kisses For The Enemy...
...paid for with the blood and tears of coalition soldiers, their families and friends.
Agree...
Weekend Letters: It’s time for Canada to get over its multicultural smugness
Re: Our Kind Of Multiculturalism, editorial, Oct. 21.
For years Canadians have looked down on the American “melting pot” with smug and self-righteous disdain, believing our mosaic, or community of communities, or whatever, was superior. In view of this editorial and Angela Merkel’s admission that “multikulti” hasn’t worked in Germany, will we Canadians now eat humble pie and admit that, whatever Trudeau might have said, the forces of assimilation take their own course, as evidenced by the election of Naheed Nenshi as Mayor of Calgary?
We will melt in the pot even if the politicians and the politically correct keep trying to put out the fire.
G. Lee, Toronto.
Read More »
Re: Our Kind Of Multiculturalism, editorial, Oct. 21.
For years Canadians have looked down on the American “melting pot” with smug and self-righteous disdain, believing our mosaic, or community of communities, or whatever, was superior. In view of this editorial and Angela Merkel’s admission that “multikulti” hasn’t worked in Germany, will we Canadians now eat humble pie and admit that, whatever Trudeau might have said, the forces of assimilation take their own course, as evidenced by the election of Naheed Nenshi as Mayor of Calgary?
We will melt in the pot even if the politicians and the politically correct keep trying to put out the fire.
G. Lee, Toronto.
Read More »
One And Only...
'Closet' Ford supporters can finally speak
By SUE-ANN LEVY, City Hall Columnist
No sooner had my column about George Smitherman been posted online Saturday night, did I get an e-mail from a reader living in my St. Paul’s neighbourhood.
...a look at the real Depends Snivelman without the cat ate the mouse smile:
By SUE-ANN LEVY, City Hall Columnist
No sooner had my column about George Smitherman been posted online Saturday night, did I get an e-mail from a reader living in my St. Paul’s neighbourhood.
...a look at the real Depends Snivelman without the cat ate the mouse smile:
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Give Comrade Miller Credit...
* for extending his welcome for four years at the expense of Toronto taxpayers
* for selecting an alternative mode of transportation when his booking on Porter Airlines was refused
* for learning how to get his head out of his ass and mount the broom
Face it, Torontonians: Miller time was good
By Hugh Mackenzie
Sun Oct 24 2010
Miller’s Toronto a disaster? Not if you consider the facts.
...facts! From an organization that backed Martin, McGoonty, Miller and are now backing Snivelman. The simple fact is I would press them to find one average voter in Toronto who is better off today than 8 years ago. Panhandlers, homeless, social in-activists, artsy/fartsy cadre, etc. are exempt from this poll.
David Miller's magical makeover
Goldstein: Why our lame-duck mayor is unexpectedly exiting on a high note. While we anxiously await the municipal election returns Monday night, today let’s discuss one of the most remarkable and unexpected results to emerge from the campaign. MORE...
A Legend...
Ian Tyson's rocky trails
Life hangs on Ian Tyson like a coat that's a little too big.
The once piercing eyes are grey now, and bloodshot. On this cool and bright fall morning, the Canadian folk and country music legend winces as he lowers himself slowly into an office armchair in the Toronto headquarters of Random House Canada, publisher of his just-released memoir, The Long Trail: My Life in the West.
MORE
Freedom Of Expression Not Under Attack IF...
...you are a member of one of the designated groups; ie: feminist, black, gay, disabled, indian, and now we can add a specific religions, Muslim. Belong to one of these groups gives you virtual carte blanche.
NPR firing assists the fatwa on free speech
Rex Murphy: What former NPR commentator Juan Williams described might be an eccentric reaction; it might be commonplace. But, after the Twin Towers, after the Pentagon, and all the rest, Mr. Williams’ response here isn’t irrational
Lorne Gunter: Liberals defend sanctity of free speech for liberals only
Censoring honest comment is wrong
Gunter: Radio analyst who fears Muslims on airplanes speaks for many people. Juan Williams, the National Public Radio (NPR) analyst fired this week in the United States, was sacked for being honest. That's the gist of it. Right or wrong.. MORE...
NPR firing assists the fatwa on free speech
Rex Murphy: What former NPR commentator Juan Williams described might be an eccentric reaction; it might be commonplace. But, after the Twin Towers, after the Pentagon, and all the rest, Mr. Williams’ response here isn’t irrational
Lorne Gunter: Liberals defend sanctity of free speech for liberals only
Censoring honest comment is wrong
Gunter: Radio analyst who fears Muslims on airplanes speaks for many people. Juan Williams, the National Public Radio (NPR) analyst fired this week in the United States, was sacked for being honest. That's the gist of it. Right or wrong.. MORE...
How Typical...
...the fact that these "reports" might put solders in harm's way is irrelevant to this coward/deserter.
Deserters hope WikiLeaks release will help with asylum bids
A U.S. army deserter says he’s hoping the new WikiLeaks release of thousands of pages of classified documents, containing accusations of human-rights abuses during the Iraq war, will bolster his bid to remain in Canada
Deserters hope WikiLeaks release will help with asylum bids
A U.S. army deserter says he’s hoping the new WikiLeaks release of thousands of pages of classified documents, containing accusations of human-rights abuses during the Iraq war, will bolster his bid to remain in Canada
I Don't Call Him Snivelman Without Cause...
Furious George can't change his spots
Sue-Ann Levy
Last Updated: October 23, 2010 4:09pm
Smitherman is George of the Bungle: Blizzard
Two mayoralty candidates are neck-and-neck in loudmouth bully race
By CHRISTINA BLIZZARD, Toronto Sun
Last Updated: October 24, 2010 12:09am
As Toronto’s mayoralty race draws mercifully to a close, it’s been interesting to watch the anti-Rob Fordites attempt to paint him as an oaf.
That’s odd, because in the many years I covered George Smitherman at Queen’s Park, I found him to be uncouth, a loudmouth and a bully.
Yep, pretty well everything he’d now like you to think Ford is.
Let’s just examine the high points of Smitherman’s career.
Before the 2003 election that swept the Liberals to power, he was known as the pitbull — the Liberals’ attack dog who would say and do all the nasty things every winning political campaign needs to have said or done.
Once the Liberals became government, he became health minister — and remained so for their entire first mandate.
So what did he achieve?
Well, the well-documented $1-billion eHealth fiasco has certainly dogged — or should I say boondoggled? — Smitherman throughout his campaign.
Largely on Smitherman’s watch, the money paid out to consultants for the eHealth program soared from $886,000 to $10 million.
But there was more.
While he was minister, Cancer Care Ontario, the agency in charge of improving cancer services to patients across the province, had problems with untendered contracts.
In a scathing 2009 report, provincial auditor general Jim McCarter reported on $20-million-worth of work CCO paid Courtyard Group Consulting Ltd. starting in April 2006. That company has strong ties to the Liberals.
Smitherman proudly calls himself the father of the Green Energy Act.
You will remember that piece of legislation, of course. It’s another boondoggle in the making. It is partly responsible for pushing up our hydro bills and forcing us all to pay massively high prices for costly solar and wind energy.
On his website, Smitherman says he can’t wait to bring that strategy to Toronto Hydro.
“Toronto has every right to be a global giant in creating good, green jobs right here. If I’m elected mayor, that’s exactly what we’ll do,” he says
“I will make sure Toronto Hydro is focused on doing its part and so will City Hall. It’s time for Toronto to move confidently into the future.”
Oh, great. Having driven us all into poverty with soaring energy costs provincially, he now wants to double our indemnity by bringing it to T.O.
Can we really afford this guy?
Don’t tell the people of Oakville about green energy.
He was energy minister when the government signed the deal to build the gas-fired plant the Liberals were forced to back down on and cancel recently.
That’s another Smitherman screw-up that we’ll end up paying for. It will cost hundreds of millions of dollars to scrap that deal.
Say one thing about Smitherman. When he messes up, he messes up really BIG.
While Ford had that embarrassing revelation about being charged with possession of marijuana and failing to provide a breath sample, Smitherman had his own teary-eyed confession about his past use of “party drugs.”
We still don’t know what specific drugs they were. Was it a gin and tonic? Geritol? Cocaine? Viagra? Inquiring minds need to know.
On Wednesday, McCarter issued yet another damning report on the shocking use of costly consultants in the health sector. Who was health minister through a lot of that abuse? You got it.
Last week, Justin Trudeau inexplicably jogged into town to give his support to Smitherman. The two were photographed jogging along, canvassing.
Optically, that was a big mistake.
Given the choice between voting for the intelligent, slim guy on the right and the out of shape dough boy on the left, I’ll pick the guy from Montreal.
So I guess the choice Monday is this: Do I vote for the plump pot-smoker whose biggest offence was not spending enough of his office budget?
Or do I vote for the plump former party drug guy with a high-flying spending habit when he was in cabinet?
Decisions, decisions.
Sue-Ann Levy
Last Updated: October 23, 2010 4:09pm
Smitherman is George of the Bungle: Blizzard
Two mayoralty candidates are neck-and-neck in loudmouth bully race
By CHRISTINA BLIZZARD, Toronto Sun
Last Updated: October 24, 2010 12:09am
As Toronto’s mayoralty race draws mercifully to a close, it’s been interesting to watch the anti-Rob Fordites attempt to paint him as an oaf.
That’s odd, because in the many years I covered George Smitherman at Queen’s Park, I found him to be uncouth, a loudmouth and a bully.
Yep, pretty well everything he’d now like you to think Ford is.
Let’s just examine the high points of Smitherman’s career.
Before the 2003 election that swept the Liberals to power, he was known as the pitbull — the Liberals’ attack dog who would say and do all the nasty things every winning political campaign needs to have said or done.
Once the Liberals became government, he became health minister — and remained so for their entire first mandate.
So what did he achieve?
Well, the well-documented $1-billion eHealth fiasco has certainly dogged — or should I say boondoggled? — Smitherman throughout his campaign.
Largely on Smitherman’s watch, the money paid out to consultants for the eHealth program soared from $886,000 to $10 million.
But there was more.
While he was minister, Cancer Care Ontario, the agency in charge of improving cancer services to patients across the province, had problems with untendered contracts.
In a scathing 2009 report, provincial auditor general Jim McCarter reported on $20-million-worth of work CCO paid Courtyard Group Consulting Ltd. starting in April 2006. That company has strong ties to the Liberals.
Smitherman proudly calls himself the father of the Green Energy Act.
You will remember that piece of legislation, of course. It’s another boondoggle in the making. It is partly responsible for pushing up our hydro bills and forcing us all to pay massively high prices for costly solar and wind energy.
On his website, Smitherman says he can’t wait to bring that strategy to Toronto Hydro.
“Toronto has every right to be a global giant in creating good, green jobs right here. If I’m elected mayor, that’s exactly what we’ll do,” he says
“I will make sure Toronto Hydro is focused on doing its part and so will City Hall. It’s time for Toronto to move confidently into the future.”
Oh, great. Having driven us all into poverty with soaring energy costs provincially, he now wants to double our indemnity by bringing it to T.O.
Can we really afford this guy?
Don’t tell the people of Oakville about green energy.
He was energy minister when the government signed the deal to build the gas-fired plant the Liberals were forced to back down on and cancel recently.
That’s another Smitherman screw-up that we’ll end up paying for. It will cost hundreds of millions of dollars to scrap that deal.
Say one thing about Smitherman. When he messes up, he messes up really BIG.
While Ford had that embarrassing revelation about being charged with possession of marijuana and failing to provide a breath sample, Smitherman had his own teary-eyed confession about his past use of “party drugs.”
We still don’t know what specific drugs they were. Was it a gin and tonic? Geritol? Cocaine? Viagra? Inquiring minds need to know.
On Wednesday, McCarter issued yet another damning report on the shocking use of costly consultants in the health sector. Who was health minister through a lot of that abuse? You got it.
Last week, Justin Trudeau inexplicably jogged into town to give his support to Smitherman. The two were photographed jogging along, canvassing.
Optically, that was a big mistake.
Given the choice between voting for the intelligent, slim guy on the right and the out of shape dough boy on the left, I’ll pick the guy from Montreal.
So I guess the choice Monday is this: Do I vote for the plump pot-smoker whose biggest offence was not spending enough of his office budget?
Or do I vote for the plump former party drug guy with a high-flying spending habit when he was in cabinet?
Decisions, decisions.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
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About Me
- Unhypentated Canadian
- I lean to the right but I still have a heart and if I have a mission it is to respond to attacks on people not available to protect themselves and to point out the hypocrisy of the left at every opportunity.MY MAJOR GOAL IS HIGHLIGHT THE HYPOCRISY AND STUPIDITY OF THE LEFTISTS ON TORONTO CITY COUNCIL. Last word: In the final analysis this blog is a relief valve for my rants/raves.