VOL. 5 ISSUE 6
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ST. JOHN’S, NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR — FRIDAY THROUGH THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9-15, 2007
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YOUR VOICE 10-11 / LIFE 19
SPORTS 29
Noreen Golfman responds to Rick Mercer; letters pour in
Fair play with the St. Francis Falcons
Party lines
SOMETHING TO LOVE
Byelection candidates split on need for public inquiry into spending scandal By Devon Wells For The Independent
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even of the 12 candidates in this month’s string of provincial byelections say they support a public inquiry into the spending scandal that continues to rock the House of Assembly. Three of the byelections — in Ferryland, Kilbride, and Port au Port — were held Thursday, after The Independent’s press deadline. Opinion on a public inquiry has split along party lines, with all four PC candidates saying they stand by Premier Danny Williams’ decision not to hold a public inquiry. Williams has said he will rely on the reports and investigations of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC), the auditor general, and Chief Justice Derek Green. The four Liberal candidates issued a statement on Feb. 4 saying they support opening the investigation to the public. Three of the four NDP candidates also support a public inquiry, with the exception of Rick Boland of See “Further investigation,” page 4
Leslie-Anne Stephenson with one of the Newfoundland dog statues in Harbourside Park in St. John’s — just one thing she loves about Newfoundland and Labrador. For more entries in The Independent’s Valentine’s contest, see pages 8-9. Paul Daly/The Independent
Dear Zachary
Ocean Ranger remembered
Film and book about the murders of Andrew and Zachary Bagby to be released
By Pam Pardy Ghent For The Independent
By Paul Peirce The following first appeared in the Feb. 4 edition of the Tribune-Review, published in Pittsburgh, Penn. Reprinted with permission.
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hen Shirley Turner tied her 13-monthold son to her chest with a sweater and jumped from a rocky Newfoundland shore into the Atlantic Ocean, the murder-suicide touched off a firestorm of criticism against the child-welfare system in Canada. Zachary Turner’s body washed up on shore on Aug. 18, 2003. It was the second time in 21 months Turner destroyed a person dearly loved by David and Kate Bagby. The California couple was seeking custody of Zachary as Turner fought being sent
Twenty-five years later, Max Ruelokke reflects on lost friends
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back to Pennsylvania to face charges of murdering their only child, Andrew. Andrew’s frost-covered body was found Nov. 6, 2001, in Keystone State Park. Turner was accused of pumping five bullets into him for ending their love affair. At the time, she was pregnant with Zachary, the Bagbys’ only grandchild. The Bagbys say they will never know peace. Next month, Dance with the Devil, a 320-page book written by David Bagby, will be released in Canada. A documentary put together by a family friend will also soon be released to the public. The book details the couple’s experiences in trying to cope with the murder of their son, Andrew, 28, a promising family-medicine resident at Latrobe Hospital, and the bizarre extradiSee “What I’m living for,” page 2
QUOTE OF THE WEEK “Literally, Newfoundland is carpeted with aircraft. They say you can’t run a metal detector along the bottom of Gander Lake, it would explode there’s so many planes down there.” — Richard Stoker, aviation enthusiast. See page 17.
very Feb. 15 for the past 24 years, Max Ruelokke attends a service at St. Pius X church in St. John’s. There, he sits among old friends — and new Gonzaga students — and remembers those who died on the Ocean Ranger. Ruelokke says he’s always lost in his own thoughts as the sad annual roll call is read. “The students weren’t alive when it happened, so it’s encouraging to see their continued commitment to such an event,” he says. “It’s a touching and very important event for me for many reasons.” Ruelokke is best known these days as the chair and CEO of the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board. He was also one of the owners of Hydrospace Marine Services, a diving and underwater engineering company that won a contract in 1980 to work on the ill-fated oil rig. On Feb. 15, 1982 the Ocean Ranger capsized during a fierce North Atlantic storm. All 84 men on board — 56 of them Newfoundlanders — perished. Ruelokke lost five co-workers and dear friends in the tragedy. Without a doubt, he says, what happened to the
STYLE 21
LIFE 17
Weekend getaways close to home
Crazy love: a doctor’s perspective
Ocean Ranger 25 years ago affects him each day as he performs his current duties. “If our life experiences makes us who we are today, then the Ocean Ranger was certainly a huge part of what makes up who I am.” Ruelokke worked on the rig himself, and says it’s “ironic” it went down like it did. He had a habit of walking the deck at night, and he was amazed, even in the worst weather, that it was so stable. “I would look out and see the lights of the supply boats bobbing around and I would say to myself how glad I was to be where I was and not where they were.” Ruelokke, born in Grand Bank, always knew what it meant to grow up in a marine environment. “Dangers are always in the back of your mind when you earn your livelihood at sea, but this was a very stable platform to work from and we had no out-of-the-ordinary concerns,” he says. The night the Ocean Ranger went down is cast firmly in his mind. “No one knows what it’s like to get that call,” he says, “or what it’s like to have to call relatives and tell them that news. To say it was a difficult time for everyone is putting it mildly.” But Ruelokke had no time to grieve. His team
Voice from away . Gallery . . . . . . . . . . Movie review . . . . . Food column. . . . . Woody’s wheels . .
See “No point,” page 15
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2 • INDEPENDENTNEWS
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
‘What I’m living for’
Too quick to forgive? Randy Simms predicts latest scandal won’t hurt MHA ambitions — not if history is any indication
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he latest scandal involving our elected officials should not come as a surprise. Scandal has long been a part of our history and when this latest one goes away another will rise to replace it. What is surprising is the lesson our current politicians can take from history. Will these latest revelations of wrongdoing hurt their chances at reelection? Not a bit. History tells it all. After the general election of 1894 the entire Liberal government of then-prime minister William Whiteway was charged with political corruption and vote buying. The Liberals had won the election handily, claiming 23 seats to the Conservatives 12. The Conservatives filed charges under the Corrupt Practices Act, claiming that the Liberals had promised things like jobs and money for those who supported them. Sound familiar? The charges were taken seriously and 15 Liberal members, along with one independent, went on trial. In the end, all 16 were found guilty and their seats vacated. It was a pretty severe punishment for buying votes. Our current crop of politicians can take some comfort from this piece of history. All but two of the Liberal seats vacated because of the 1894 scandal returned Liberals to the house, allowing Whiteway to regain government and return to office. The perpetrators were forgiven. Whiteway himself was among them. In 1923 Sir Richard Squires was driven from office over allegations
RANDY SIMMS
Page 2 talk
Squires and his band of merry men had quietly diverted money to their personal re-election accounts for years and what outraged people the most was where the money came from. that one of his ministers, Alex Campbell, used public funds to buy votes during his election campaign. Added to it was the charge that Squires himself had accepted kickbacks from the owners of the Bell Island mines. A public inquiry confirmed the charges against both and then added to their crimes. Squires and his band of merry men had quietly diverted money to their personal re-election accounts for years and what outraged people the most was where the money came from. They took the dollars from special projects designed to help the
poor. Good news for today’s politicians here as well. In 1928 Squires was re-elected. Seems we forgave him. Forgiveness is a character trait of ours. In 1932 Mr. Squires was in trouble again. They didn’t have whistleblower legislation back then but that didn’t stop his former Finance minister, Peter Cashin, from revealing all. He accused the prime minister of pocketing $5,000 a year from the war reparations office. People went crazy. It led to the famous storming of Colonial Building on April 4, 1932. With Confederation in 1949 came some measure of local government control. Joe Smallwood was the new premier of the new province and he was going to turn things around. One of the jewels on his political scandal sheet was a Latvian fellow named Alfred Valdmanis. An economic guru. Valdmanis toured Joey all over Europe and they signed deal after deal. The province got a rubber plant, a knitting mill, a tannery and a glove factory, a concrete plant and a chocolate plant; 16 different manufacturing efforts costing $26 million. Valdmanis was getting a kickback of 10 per cent on every deal. Joey was alleged to have been involved though he always denied it and Valdmanis spent a little time in jail. As we know, Joey not only survived the scandal he prospered politically for years. So our political leadership can take some comfort from all this history. If past practice is an indicator of future action, we can predict with some
assurance that MHAs will be forgiven their little transgressions. We have five current and former provincial politicians now under active police investigation, we have new rules of conduct being written to cover MHA actions and the hand-inthe-cookie-jar scandal, vague minutes and all, should dissipate soon. With the premier demanding everyone take a cut in their allowances to repay the public treasury, all will be forgiven. Political scandal is not new to our shores. For example, what was that cucumber thing really all about, anyway? Was Philip Sprung simply a modern-day version of Valdmanis? Let’s not get started on the scandal that is the upper Churchill power contract. Let’s not talk about the Stephenville linerboard mill or the largest bankruptcy in Canadian history that was the Come by Chance refinery. Does anyone remember John Shaheen? History seems to tell us that our politicians can relax a little. This latest scandal will not end up damaging their political ambitions all that much. Unless the provincial government goes for a public inquiry of some kind I doubt if it will even register with voters by next October. It all prompts a question though: are we a little too quick to forgive? Randy Simms is host of VOCM’s open line radio show. rsimms@nf.sympatico.ca
From page 1 tion proceedings in Canada that gave custody of an infant to an accused murderer. “I’m hoping enough readers are angered and outraged in Canada at our experience with the justice system that they will call Parliament and demand a change in the system. I don’t ever want to see anything like this to happen again ... that’s what I’m living for,” David says. Before she could be extradited to Pennsylvania and tried for Andrew Bagby’s murder, 43-year-old Turner drowned herself and the baby. “It was done for the same reason she killed Andrew. If she couldn’t have him, no one would,” says Kurt Kuenne, Andrew’s lifelong friend. “Although I don’t think we could have saved Andrew, I believe we could have saved our grandson,” Kate says from the couple’s home in Sunnyvale, Calif. Kuenne, a California filmmaker, plans to release Dear Zachary, a project five years in the making, at a Toronto film festival. Kuenne originally intended the film — with video dating back to Andrew and Kurt’s elementary-school days — as a gift to Zachary. Kuenne says the film depicts only a fragment of the father Zachary never knew. Trailers for the film mingle photographs and video of family and friends from around the world reminiscing about Andrew. “I wanted Zachary to know what a wonderful man his father was. But after Zachary was murdered, I decided to make it a documentary film as a tribute to both Andrew and Zachary,” Kuenne says. For his book, David used reams of government documents meticulously gathered from state police at Greensburg, the Westmoreland County district attorney’s office and from Canadian authorities, who reviewed their child custody laws after Zachary’s death. (The Turner review and investigation was released in October 2006.) David borrows from his wife’s daily diaries of the period and his own personal recollections to tell the story. Police linked Bagby’s murder to Turner by tracing cell phone calls, ammunition she purchased that matched shell casings at the murder scene, and bullets taken from the victim’s body. Before she could be arrested, Turner fled to her native Newfoundland. She gave birth to Zachary on July 18, 2002. When the Bagbys learned of the birth, they moved from the Silicon Valley, where David was a technical writer, to St. John’s, to seek custody. Paternity tests proved Andrew had fathered Zachary. Turner and Bagby first met in 1999 while they were studying medicine at Newfoundland’s Memorial University. Bagby later moved to Syracuse, N.Y., while Turner, a former teacher, went to Sac City, Iowa. They maintained a longdistance relationship. In the book, the Bagbys detail the cruel irony of being forced to interact with their son’s accused killer to visit their grandson as they fought for custody of Zachary and the extradition of Turner. Kuenne says the Bagbys “had to walk a tightrope” of being cordial to Turner or facing the prospect of not seeing the baby they adored. The Turner Review concluded Turner never should have been given custody. Kuenne’s documentary contains clips of the Bagbys with Zachary in St. John’s about one month before the toddler’s death.“The Bagbys are definitely the bravest and strongest people I have ever met,” he says. David recounted a roller coaster of emotions he and his wife faced for two months when Turner was jailed in November 2002. The Bagbys, appointed by Canadian authorities as temporary guardians, were legally bound to take Zachary to the jail to visit his mother. “She agreed to give us temporary custody if we agreed to grant her custody back if and when she got out. We readily agreed, thinking at that point she’d never get out again. But she did,” David says. “One of the things we found out soon enough was that the legal guardian had to be present, in the same room, with the prisoner during these jail visits. So here we are, sitting in a small room with the woman who killed our son. It was excruciatingly painful.” In his film, Kuenne includes telephone messages Turner left on the Bagbys’ answering machine, including one seeking a suggestion for a Christmas gift for Zachary. Spliced in are personal photographs of Andrew, starting in elementary school, “because I always made Andrew star in my movies,” the filmmaker says. Kuenne returned to the Latrobe Hospital, where Andrew had been a family-practice intern, in October 2004 to film Andrew’s graduating class. He also spoke to Andrew’s former patients.
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
INDEPENDENTNEWS • 3
SCRUNCHINS A weekly collection of Newfoundlandia
18, 1932, a week after an angry mob ransacked the seat of government and gave Squires a good going over. Squires hid away in the Colonial Building while out front “Newfoundlanders were dancing on the government’s piano, dancing it to smithereens and pocketing the piano keys as souvenirs.” Love to have one of those keys …
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uess who’s reading us now? The couple in the picture on this page should ring a bell — they’ve been on the front page of The Independent twice in the past month. Whitbourne’s own Shannon Tweed and her rock demon husband, Gene Simmons of KISS, got their Jan. 5 edition of The Independent and were good enough to send us a picture to prove it. (From the expression on Gene’s face he was in the middle of Ray Guy’s column.) The couple, whose family stars in the reality show Family Jewels, may come here later this year to shoot an episode. Now if we can just get the two in Independent T-shirts …
CHILD’S PLAY While on the subject of snazzy pictures, the office of the Child and Youth Advocate has released a 43page glossy magazine, which is quite impressive for an annual report. The Queen’s Printer did off 900 copies of the magazine/report for $7,625. (On a side note, it’s cheaper to print 10,000 copies of the 32-page Independent, but then newsprint is cheaper). With a $731,200 annual budget, advocate Darlene Neville can afford it. On average, Neville’s office opened just over 40 cases a month last year, almost 75 per cent of which were in the St. John’s area. The office was also kept busy giving a total of 125 meetings/presentations over the past year, not to mention the 27 media interviews (which are all listed on page 43 of the report). Let’s see the advocate’s office get a picture of Gene Simmons reading their report … SIGN OF THE TIMES The polling booth in Ferryland for Thursday’s byelection was located in the Kavanagh Building, the same building that served as the campaign
SCANDALOUS BEHAVIOUR The following is a quote from the head of Democracy Watch, Duff Conacher, regarding today’s political spending scandal: “The system is the scandal, and no one should be surprised by scandalous behaviour because the system allows it, and in some cases encourages it. It’s human nature — if there is a loophole, to jump through it. I never say that everybody’s a crook, or most people, or even many people are crooks in government, but they’re allowed to be.” EARLY RETIREMENT Bill Fleming, Petro-Canada’s vicepresident, East Coast oil, retired this week. That was unexpected …
Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed
headquarters for Tory candidate Keith Hutchings. Candidates may not have been able to campaign on voting day, but what does that matter when your face is plastered on the building? Contacted by The Independent, Chuck Furey, the province’s chief electoral officer, admitted there was a “perception problem.” Furey says his office rented space before Hutchings’ people moved in. “There’s nothing I can do about that. I can’t tell the man who owns the building Chuck Furey
‘Don’t rent to them.’” Furey says his office asked the Hutchings crowd to remove their signs on election day. They apparently complied, which was good of them, but there should be a law … PLAY IT AGAIN B’Y How does our current political spending scandal rank against Newfoundland scandals of old? That question seems to be the flavour of the week, with most comparing today’s headlines with the fall of former prime minister Sir Richard Squires and the Colonial Building riot. ‘Damned if I’ll resign’, read the Time magazine headline from April
BEST OF THE BEST Two Newfoundland companies made it to the list of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies of 2006, a program sponsored by Deloitte, CIBC Commercial Banking, the National Post, and Queen’s School of Business. The companies included Corner Brook’s Coleman’s Food Centres and GJ Cahill and Company, based in Town. Looks good on ’em … JUNO WHO WON? Not a single Newfoundlander or Labradorian is up for a Juno this year — not even Great Big Sea. That’s all right guys, who needs an award w h e n you’ve got Independent hoodies? Alan Doyle
ROSES ARE RED … Finally, what’s Valentine’s Day without a poem? The following piece was submitted by a loyal reader … Fer me wife I writes ta say I loves ya b’y, ’cause I don’t say it very much. Everytime I tries ta cuddle ya ya says GET AWAY, DON’T TOUCH! I tried ta be more gentle, took me rubbers off outside. When I tells ya where I was last nite ya always t’inks I lied. Ya knows I loves me fishin’, ya knows I loves me boat! But you’re da life preserver I needs to stay afloat! So I got ya somethin’ really nice, how much, please don’t ass. But you’ll find it a lot easier now when ya goes ta cut da grass! Just pull da cord, stand behind, steer her as you go. Next Valentine’s I’ll get ya sometin’ dat helps ya shovel snow! So keep up da cookin’ and cleanin’ You’re de only one I got to keep me duds all washed and clean and me coffee always hot! You knows dat I appreciates your home-made buns and bread. And I hope dat it continues on ’till one of us is dead! Happy Valentine’s Day 2007 ryan.cleary@theindependent.ca
‘A personal source of cash’ Squires’ corruption still Newfoundland’s greatest political scandal By Ivan Morgan The Independent
and educated in St. John’s, he was a scholarship student who graduated from Dalhousie law school. He was driven to succeed in politics, elected to the House of Assembly before his 30th birthday and taking over as prime minister before his 40th. His first term as prime minister ended in scandal, amid allegations of corruption. Webb says an important difference between politics in the 1920s and today is established political parties, which raise money to fight elections. A political leader today is not expected to come up with cash for himself or his followers to run on. Squires was. Merchant politicians such as Frederick Alderdice, Walter Monroe, or Sir Michael Cashin, could fund their own political activities from personal funds. Squires, if he wanted to run a political campaign, needed money. Squires’ second corruption scandal broke at a time when Newfoundland’s government was in serious financial trouble. The Great Depression had plunged the world into financial crisis. A large portion of the nation’s revenue was going to pay the interest on the national debt, no principal was being repaid, and Newfoundland was going to bond agencies and to the banks to raise money just to pay for day-to-day expenditures from the treasury. “And here’s Squires,” says Webb, “treating it as a personal source of cash to finance his re-election campaigns and his political activities.”
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Memorial University history professor says former Newfoundland prime minister Sir Richard Squires’ financial scandal dwarfs today’s House of Assembly spending kafuffle, both for amount of money involved and impact on local politics. Jeff Webb, assistant professor of history at Memorial, says the amount of money Squires misappropriated during his terms in office, was “a very large sum indeed,” even by today’s standards. The scandal surrounding Squires’ second term as prime minister, says Webb, led to a 16-year suspension of democracy, also known in Newfoundland as commission of government. “I hate to be making light of the constituency scandal, because I think it is an appalling thing,” Webb tells The Independent. “Yet it is not a huge portion of the total government budget.” Webb says there are some parallels between the Squires scandal and the current one. He says Squires used most of the money he took to finance his political activities. “I think some of the money from the constituency funds were spent on things in the constituency. I think there is a similarity there,” he says. In his publication Politics in Newfoundland, Newfoundland historian Sid Noel writes that the Squires campaigns in the 1920s and 1930s
Sir Richard Squires
“were in many respects an exercise in smooth professional politics based on the American model.” These campaigns, says Webb, were expensive. “You needed a newspaper, you needed money for travel, you needed to have money to grease the wheels, and unlike some of his contemporaries, who were merchants, (Squires) wasn’t personally wealthy,” says Webb. “The money would be going from the liquor control office into his pockets and would then go to fund his newspaper to publicize his own party.” Richard Squires was a brilliant and ambitious man. Born in Harbour Grace
See “Ushering,” page 5
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4 • INDEPENDENTNEWS
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
Wanted: doctors
Medical association says advertising won’t solve shortage By Devon Wells For The Independent
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asir Khan plans to stay in Newfoundland after his medical degree, but he knows not all medical students will. “I live at home and I lived at home for my undergrad, with my parents, so I have a lot more resources available to me because of that,” Khan tells The Independent. “There’s lot of people in my class who went away for four years for undergrad to university elsewhere and they’re still not living at home now going to medicine at MUN. Because of that, they’re amassing a lot more in terms of students loans and debt.” That debt is driving new doctors out of Newfoundland and Labrador to higher paying jobs in Ontario and Alberta, says Robert Ritter, executive director of the provincial medical association. The province’s current doctor shortage recently came to a head. Two weeks ago, the Department of Health and Community Services set up a website (www.nlphysicianjobs.ca) to advertise jobs for doctors around the province. But Ritter says the lack of doctors is a problem too complex to be solved by better advertising. “The shortage is universal. It’s not just in our province, it’s everywhere,” he says. “We’re at a disadvantage competitively with some of the other provinces. I know, for example, if Alberta sends recruiters in here — which they are likely to do and have been doing — they offer much more attractive packages than we’re offering.” Health Minister Ross Wiseman is pleased with his department’s efforts to keep doctors in the province. He says there are more graduates from Memorial’s School of Medicine staying to practise in Newfoundland and Labrador than ever before. He says his department is now investing $4 million to $5 million annually to keep doctors in the province, stressing retention bonuses for those who stay. Doctors eligible for retention bonuses are paid a regular salary, instead of billing for their work as fee-for-service doctors. Salaried positions generally pay less than fee-for-service ones, and are often held by foreign doctors having trouble setting up their own businesses. Newfoundland and Labrador has more salaried
The Abitibi plant in Grand Falls-Windsor
Pathologist in Alberta: More than $300,000 a year Pathologist in Newfoundland and Labrador: More than $150,000 Cost of doctor’s visit: $25.74 Average gross billings to MCP per general practicioner: $240,000
doctors than the other provinces except Saskatchewan. According to Ritter, doctors often use these provinces to establish themselves in Canada before taking jobs in Ontario or Alberta. “We have a significant revolving door in our province,” he says. Although the number of doctors in Newfoundland and Labrador usually hovers around 975 to 1,000, the medical association still hires more than 100 doctors a year. “What that tells you is that we’re losing 100 doctors a year.” Wiseman, however, doesn’t see an issue with the turnover in the healthcare industry. “Physicians retire, some make career choices that take them someplace else, their personal circumstance may change and for personal, family reasons they may want to relocate someplace else,” he says. “That’s a natural thing.” Wiseman says the turnover rate is good when compared to other provinces and other industries in Newfoundland and Labrador. Ritter sees patients waiting longer for treatment and traveling out of the province for procedures; he sees doctors and nurses working longer hours, especially in rural areas. He also says the problem will get worse before it gets better. “When you look at the timeline from the time they enter medical school to the time they finish a specialty that the country needs, it could be up to 10 years or more,” says Ritter. As well, the aging population of Newfoundland and Labrador puts greater strain on the current doctors. To keep physicians in the province, Ritter and Khan think there should be ways to lighten the debt medical students pick up during their education. “You’re making a decent living no matter where you are,” says Khan. “But, if you’re getting a much more lucrative offer someplace, it’s hard to turn that down if you’ve got a $150,000 debt on your shoulders.”
Paul Daly/The Independent
Hydro Deal?
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atural Resources Minister Kathy Dunderdale says she will not discuss if the province will consider offering AbitibiBowater the same deal on hydro for its Grand Falls mill it offered the company to keep its Stephenville plant operating. The Stephenville mill closed in October 2005, despite the province’s offer of electricity subsidies of $10 million per year for 15 years. Abitibi has said it has to cut $10 million in operating costs to
make its Grand Falls plant profitable. “All I can tell you is what I have been told,” says Dunderdale. “And I have been told by Abitibi and … the union is that they both feel … these efficiencies can be found. “We are looking very carefully at the operations, studying the operations, over the last year. We feel that those efficiencies are there.” — Ivan Morgan
Further investigation ‘a waste of money’ From page 1 Ferryland, who says it will just rehash information without getting to the root of the issue. “What’s a public inquiry going to do?” he asks. None of the PC candidates say a further investigation is necessary at this point. “I don’t agree with it, it’s a waste of money,” says John Dinn, PC candidate for Kilbride and former St. John’s city councillor. “Sure, you’re only going to get another person to do an inquiry, it’s only another person added to the mix.” Dinn’s fellow PCs Keith Hutchings of Ferryland, Tony Cornect of Port-au-Port, and Darryl Kelly of Humber Valley all stand by Williams. “We cannot think of a more comprehensive manner in which to deal with this issue, and we are fully confident that these three separate and independent review processes will result in a strong, effective system and restore public confidence,” Williams told the CBC Feb. 5. Hutchings, a one-time assistant to former Ferryland MHA Loyola Sullivan, says the auditor general has been doing his job. Hutchings remains open to a public inquiry if the current proceedings do not uncover everything. “I like to stand up for our leader, the premier of course,” says Cornect. “(The process is) open, transparent, and very accountable. The party is certainly dealing with the issues.” The three NDP candidates other than Boland side with the Liberals. Gemma Schlemp-Hickey of Kilbride, Paul O’Keefe of Port-au-Port, and Shelley Senior of Humber Valley agree that a public inquiry will disclose more than a police investigation or the auditor general’s report.
“Anything that involves the public purse should be subject to public scrutiny,” says Senior. “Everybody’s role in it has to be looked into and I think that obviously checks and balances need to be put in place to make sure that kind of thing doesn’t happen again. “I’m kind of disgusted about it.” O’Keefe concurs: “We should know what happened, when it happened. Obviously this thing has been going on for years. How many other bonuses have they given themselves quietly?” Schlemp-Hickey echoes her party mates. “I’m promoting transparency and accountability with government,” she says. “Coming into this, that was part of my platform.” Duff Conacher, co-ordinator with the federal watchdog organization Democracy Watch, says a public inquiry may not be the best idea at this time. Calling a public inquiry could halt police investigations and delay any charges. He says it makes more sense to wait until the auditor general’s investigations are complete. Conacher says the fact that the RNC is investigating these instances is problematic. He says the RCMP should be taking over the police investigations. Because the provincial police depend on cabinet for funding and appointments, there could be a perceived conflict of interest. The RCMP’s budget and promotions are federally directed. That separation, says Conacher, should help the integrity of the investigation. “Police chiefs, judges — usually all the accountability watchdogs are selected by the cabinet,” he says. “And that’s an area where there needs to be more independence.” Files from Ivan Morgan
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
INDEPENDENTNEWS • 5
By Ivan Morgan The Independent
F
ormer premier Brian Tobin, now a senior fellow with the Fraser Institute, says it is too early to start talking about his work building a continental energy strategy, but he offers thoughts on Newfoundland and Labrador’s role in that plan. Former Alberta premier Ralph Klein was recently hired by the British Columbian right wing think tank to work with Tobin to develop the strategy, through the institute’s newly formed Centre for Energy Policy Studies in Calgary. “In my view — and I think Ralph has the same view — both of us have to move away from the political exercise of participating as issues are unfolding and rather (take) a reflective, longer view of all these issues,” Tobin tells The Independent from Toronto. He says he and Klein are still in the beginning stages of their work, which he estimates will take at least 18 months. “If this is going to be useful work, it needs to be considered work, it needs to be thoughtful work, and it needs time and attention.” Tobin says it would not be appropriate for him to comment on current circumstances regarding the province’s actions on developing the lower Churchill except to “say the obvious. “In the context of North American energy security of supply, in the context of the entire discussion and debate of greenhouse gases and global warming, there probably is not a better example of an energy resource that is wasted in terms of its potential to a) contribute to security of supply and b) contribute to green, a green energy source, than the lower Churchill.” “And I know firsthand how frustrating it is to try and bring it to fruition, and how difficult it is.” CLOSE TO DEAL As premier, Tobin and Quebec Premier Lucien Bouchard came close to a deal on developing the lower Churchill in 1998. The deal unravelled in the face of unresolved native land claims. Tobin says any forward-looking vision of Canada’s or North America’s energy needs and the need to reduce greenhouse gases must see the lower Churchill’s development as being “very near the top of the list of things that must happen. “Obviously in a way that’s fair to everybody, notably fair to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.” When asked about developing the Quebec’s North Shore hydro projects in concert with the lower Churchill, Tobin says there needs to be some coordination and some intelligent resolu-
Former Premier Brian Tobin
Paul Daly/The Independent
A longer view Former premier Brian Tobin on his new job, lower Churchill, Quebec relations, and scars left by upper Churchill contract tion of the issues between Quebec and Newfoundland in order to proceed. He says Quebec is one of many development options for the project. “They’re an obvious choice to be a partner, but they are not the only game in town.” Among those outstanding issues, he says, the upper Churchill deal with Hydro Quebec is the big one.
“There is a historical scar, and a penalty associated with the upper Churchill contract that makes Newfoundland governments ultra-sensitive to getting a fair share of benefits of resource development,” says Tobin. “And everybody has to be aware of that and everybody has to, frankly, understand that. “Now, even though it’s a scar, it
‘Ushering us into the Canadian confederation’ From page 3 The public shock was overwhelming. Squires was accused of forging false documents to cover evidence of secret payments from public funds. Newfoundlanders, battered by widespread unemployment, were furious. On April 5, 1932 they rioted outside the Colonial Building, then the government seat. Squires was forced to flee for his life and hide in a house on Colonial Street. The temper of the times can be gauged by remarks attributed to the governor, Sir John Middleton, by Time magazine, which reported on the riots. When asked if he had ordered a British warship to the harbour to help restore order, the governor snapped: “No, I have not ordered a warship, but it is my prerogative to order a squadron if necessary and order them to blow you all to hell.” The fallout from the scandal, says Webb, was staggering. It ushered in Commission of Government and the suspension of democratic politics. “I don’t believe that this current constituency allowance scandal is going to have that kind of sweeping side effect,” says Webb. “I don’t believe for a moment that we are going to look back two or three years from now and say ‘Well, that was the beginning of the end of democratic government.’” Squires’ malfeasance, says Webb,
‘No comment whatsoever’ Former premier Brian Tobin will still not talk about the current constituency allowance scandal, which originated with his decision in 2000 to bar the auditor general from reviewing the finances House of Assembly’s Internal Economy Commission. Reached at his Toronto office this week by The Independent, Tobin indicated he would not discuss the issue. “No comment. No comment. I have no comment whatsoever.” — Ivan Morgan
had a profound effect on the future of Newfoundland and Labrador. “It laid the groundwork for Lord Amulree to come in 1933 and say these people are incapable of governing themselves, they need financial help and the only way we are going to provide this financial help is if a responsible English civil servant has control over the chequebook,” says Webb. “So
democratic government had to end. “Squires’ administration was responsible for us have a 16-year rest from politics and arguably ushering us into the Canadian confederation … So on that criteria alone, undoubtedly it’s our most influential or greatest political scandal.” ivan.morgan@theindependent.ca
can’t be an impediment. It can’t leave you in such paralysis that you are incapable of doing a deal going forward.” He says the government of the day will decide how to develop the lower Churchill. He does not want to interfere in that decision-making process. “I am not going to speculate as to what the proper approach is for the premier of the day,” says Tobin. “The
one thing I appreciated as premier was my predecessors didn’t come back to offer their advice as to how I should do my job, and I won’t lay that burden on Danny Williams.” He says that he is sure everyone wants to do the right and best deal. “Whether they’ll get there remains to be seen.” ivan.morgan@theindependent.ca
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Ottawa’s defender H
ow do I say this nicely? MP Loyola Hearn seems to be coming down with the same political sickness that took out heavyweight John Efford. What happens to our politicians when they get to Ottawa? Why do they suddenly get the urge to defend the federal government and its wicked ways? Are they not strong enough to stand up for us? Are they so easily defeated? Or are we just useless at sizing up our champions before shipping them off across the Gulf? Scratch that, their passage is most often by plane — not boat. Why take a “cattle car” — Chuck Furey’s nickname for the super ferries in the 1990s when he was provincial Transportation minister — when you can fly first-class, or even second — compared to a third-class ferry ride? Which brings me to a point about Marine Atlantic and our connection to Canada. The distance across the Gulf of St. Lawrence between Port aux Basques and North Sydney is roughly equivalent to the driving distances between Town and Clarenville — 160 kilometres, give or take. It costs me about $20 in gas to make that run in my old but reliable fourcylinder Toyota.
RYAN CLEARY
Fighting Newfoundlander Compare that to the $272.11 (taxes in) it costs a family of four to sail across the Gulf, including passenger rates, car fees, and overnight cabin. That’s one way. There’s an argument that the cost of passage by sea should equal the cost by road. Remember the ferry link to the mainland is theoretically an extension of the Trans-Canada Highway. So why the $250 difference? And why should we swallow a planned hike in ferry fees, which are due to go up, based on inflation, and to pay a new fuel surcharge? The feds have paid for the charges in the past. What’s the difference today? Enter Hearn — Ottawa’s defender. While Transport Canada intends to pump $250 million over the next five years into the Crown Corporation, our representative in the federal cabinet says we should also expect to have to pay for better service. Who says so? Marine Atlantic’s current fees are
already a tourism deterrent. Newfoundland only gets the tourists who are determined, come hell or rough water, to come here. How likely is a mainland tourist to pay the sky-high ferry rates to get to Newfoundland when they can save a bundle and stick to the Maritimes? The East Coast is all the same anyway, right? Forget the tourism hit, what about the increases we’ll have to pay down the road for mainland goods, which are sure to rise with the price of shipping? If Hearn was a fighting Newfoundlander he’d be after Marine Atlantic to improve its service and drop the rates. Nothing less. When did he learn to settle? Given the collapse of the fishery, tourism is more vital to us now than ever. Hearn says he has no problem with the ferry service becoming an election issue. Wicked — let’s make it one. No question, the job of a federal MP from this province isn’t an easy one — seven against 301 aren’t the best odds. There’s an unwritten rule that says our MPs have to strike a balance between what Newfoundland and Labrador wants and what Ottawa is prepared to give. Careful not to appear too smug with the feds, don’t want to look like a traitor
to your province (Johnny Efford’s political epitaph). Can’t appear too close to the province either — too provincial. Let’s review our wish list of things Hearn needs from the feds. • Follow through on Atlantic Accord commitment. • Financial support for Gander airport. • Federal backing of fallow-field legislation to make oil companies use or lose their offshore holdings. • Financing assistance for lower Churchill development. • A fair deal on transmitting power through Quebec. • An early retirement package for fishery workers. • Cash for a new federal/provincial prison. • Improved ferry service. Efford (sorry … Hearn) has already given a take-it-or-leave-it ultimatum to Gander. Speaking of airports, Hearn is the same MP who said Air Canada would reinstate its St. John’s-to-London route. That didn’t happen. Until last year there had been a direct flight between the province and the British capital since before Confederation. We lost that. Hearn should have gone after the feds to strip Air Canada of its name — a true national carrier would have never pulled out of Newfoundland. Hearn failed to
act. A ferry link is guaranteed in the Terms of Union, but, as usual, we didn’t check the fine print — there’s no guarantee of level of service or fee structure. Hearn’s moves on foreign overfishing have been superficial, exercises in futility/public relations meant to make it appear as if the federal government is doing something when it’s not. Giving his buddy, Loyola Sullivan, a plum job as fishery ambassador is hardly helping. Now it’s time to review the province’s political leverage with Ottawa. There’s a federal election coming up, that’s one thing. Our seven seats could decide the balance of power. If we can’t get what we want now, in the current political climate, we never will. Oh, and we also have the support of Saskatchewan in our fight for an Accord deal. That’s another thing going for us. What else? There’s the Maritime route as a means to get lower Churchill power to market — the threat of which must make some Quebecers nervous. Beyond that … I can’t think of anything. What we need, more than ever before, are political representatives with the backbone to do the job. If they don’t have it, then get the hell out of the way. ryan.cleary@theindependent.ca
YOURVOICE ‘I could hardly believe my ears’ Dear editor, I feel obligated to respond to a recent question of the day on VOCM. The question being, Do you think older fishery workers of Newfoundland and Labrador should get an early retirement to make room for a younger workforce? I could hardly believe my ears when I listened to the comments, or my eyes when I read the comments on the Internet. Fellow Newfoundlanders practically stripped the hide off their neighbours. Degrading comments like lazy bums, or other remarks like they retired once they were in the fishery, now they want to retire again, or I don’t want my tax dollars going to a retirement plan for fishermen who didn’t pay into one. To me this is exactly what government wanted, to put neighbour against neighbour and community against community. It’s a divide-andconquer strategy. When I started fishing back in 1972, I didn’t have much going for me, but eventually worked my way into it. I stayed on an island where there were no modern luxuries to speak of. You had to lug your water and pick up driftwood along the beach to burn in an old cutoff 45gallon drum. There was no way of communication — if you cut yourself or if you were seriously ill, then you had to make do with what you had on hand. There were mice, mosquitos, and black flies to contend with the minute you closed your
eyes. The driving wind and rain soaked the paper off the walls whenever the wind was the right way. The water blisters on my wrists were very painful from the constant chafing of my soaked cuffs. The only lighting was a candle or kerosene lamp. I don’t know how or why I put myself through so much hardship but I guess you have to make a living some way. I don’t think that many people of today would put up with any of that stuff. Why can’t the people of this province understand the benefits of the fishery here in the province. The fishing industry was the backbone of our economy for about 500 years and probably still is today. The industry created a lot of spin-off jobs here in this province for a lot of people, even for those who are against an early retirement. In our society we have a need for all kinds of jobs. From doctors and lawyers to berry pickers and ditch diggers. All jobs are important. When you have a house divided against itself it cannot stand. We have to all pull together if we want to see some positive change. There is a lot of animosity toward fishery workers in this province and I feel government is to blame. It seems the fishing merchants of the past are still at it today. I don’t think it will ever be any different. Harvey Bellows, Lark Harbour
No disputing the fish facts Dear Editor: Patrick O’Flaherty’s column, Newfoundland was no Eldorado (Feb. 2 edition), challenges a recent statement I made regarding the nature of our fishery. I said the common-property notion of the fishery is a myth. He countered that statement with the compelling example of having bought a salmon licence for his father in the late 1960s, and concludes that he had a right to fish, and “That’s not myth — that’s fact.” Indeed. I wouldn’t dare suggest otherwise. The issue is not what he could do in the ’60s, but the fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador, as cur-
rently constituted — with myriad regulations, entry requirements, individual and enterprise quotas, capital outlay demands, and a welltrained and entrenched professional fish harvester class who have defined access to the resource (all for the good, one might say). And then, the question: does this new reality constitute a real common property resource? (Notwithstanding the annual purchase of licences, either in the 1960s or at present). Derek Butler, Association of Seafood Producers
‘Trapped in our communities’ Dear editor, How many people, including elected politicians, really know how groomed snowmobile trails came about. I’ll explain so that everyone will understand. In 1996 the International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association convinced our government that we needed a groomed snowmobile trail system. (Then we would be just like Upper Canada.) Government commissioned such a study in 1996, which became known as the Pluram report on snowmobiling in Newfoundland. This was a seven-year, step-by-step master plan on how to accomplish such a goal. The report also stated that snowmobiling is a part of Newfoundland’s culture and advised moving slowly. The next move was to establish a network of local snowmobile clubs and then, when well established, move into the regulatory side of things. In December
2004 the Danny Williams government forced legislation through the House and finalized their last move. While in opposition, the Tories promised citizens an “outdoor bill of rights” to protect against this sort of thing. Mr. Williams promised two members of our committee the same bill of rights with no restrictions or fees. Are mandatory permits not fees, Mr. Williams? Are fines for riding on woods roads not restricting our outdoor rights? I will now quote our premier: “A promise made is a promise kept.” Does that only apply federally sir? The second quote: “A man is only as good as his word.” Are we now expected to believe you sir? Conservation officers are supposed to safeguard our natural resources — not harass snowmobilers on public land. The support and respect for those individuals will quickly disappear when they start handing out tickets. We are effectively trapped in our
communities and forced to buy permits so as not to break the foolish snowmobile regulations. That is not acceptable and will not be tolerated. Permit sales, when voluntary, grew steadily. Legislation caused sales to drop by 34 per cent last winter. The fear of being fined will force some people to buy permits, but not enough to make groomed trails viable. The majority of snowmobilers did not ask for or want groomed trails. Snowmobilers are aware of what just happened in New Brunswick. The government had to give the snowmobile federation $250,000 to help them survive the winter. Permit sales were normally 10,000 and this winter are just over 4,000. It’s not just the lack of snow; snowmobilers are being over-regulated and showing their displeasure. Bernard Rumbolt Director, Newfoundland and Labrador Outdoor Rights Legal Fund
NAPE history shouldn’t repeat itself AN INDEPENDENT VOICE FOR NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
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Dear editor, I recently read a statement by NAPE president Carol Furlong stating she hoped to repeat in 2007 the successes of last year. I was musing to myself what successes did our great union have under her administration, and I could only recall failures, like the failure to stand up for NAPE members who are under attack by government and other employers. Let me give you a few examples. She stopped the organizing of homecare workers, who are amongst the most mistreated workers in the labour force today. She failed to speak out against government last fall when some five ferries were out of commission, and the ferry servicing Long Island ran aground — not once, but twice. She failed to fight government regarding the close of highway depots during the summer season.
She failed to do anything to defend the social workers who felt condemned by the Markesteyn report on Zachary Turner and was even reluctant to speak to them when they organized a protest. She failed to speak out when government cut jobs at the School for the Deaf. She refused to speak out on the issue of air quality in the schools, knowing full well the correlation between this issue and cuts in the hours and number of school board workers. She talks about the gains she made in pay equity. She accepted $24 million from government, only to have $10 million of it go to other unions, when those unions had no right to any share. Another failure. She went, alone, behind closed doors, and sold members’ benefits for one per cent, thereby agreeing to the legislation that forced an end to the NAPE-CUPE strike in 2004, a 28-day struggle for democracy. That’s a monu-
mental failure. She campaigned against increasing union dues when she ran for president in 2005, yet during the union convention where the dues increase was approved, she never said a word. NAPE has gone from a strong, outspoken union to an organization that has forsaken its members in order to appease Mr. Williams’ government. NAPE members need a president who has vision, who has leadership qualities, who believes in workers’ rights, and who will speak out against government — not someone who makes backroom deals as is currently being done. NAPE suffered that humiliation in the mid-1990s under Dave Curtis’ leadership. We should not let history repeat itself. Our union cannot take much more of Carol Ann’s successes. Tommy Whalen, Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s
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May the best person win Ivan Morgan wonders if party loyalty should be a thing of the past
“Y
a dance with the woman what brung ya.” So said Brian Mulroney, referring to party loyalty. And I agree, up to a point. But I have been thinking a great deal lately about party loyalty. I am conflicted about it. I’m not looking for the eradication of political parties, but I think that maybe party loyalty, especially for the average voter, should be a thing of the past. The irony is that while party loyalty is seen as a virtue, it is the voters who switch loyalties that every party wants. It is they who toss people out of office, and elect new ones. I am not endorsing opportunism. Nothing makes me more nauseous than the bandwagon types who carefully wait till one party is in the ascendant before deciding to join. I like the people who join when the party is down and out — the builders. I like them in every party. Having built, the builders then wait for the bandwagon types to hop aboard and coast to victory. I’ve seen it.
IVAN MORGAN
Rant & Reason It’s sickening. I do wonder if voting Liberal (or Tory, or NDP or whatever) because one “is a Liberal,” or voting New Democrat or Conservative “just because” makes sense any more, if it ever did. With the parties more and more indistinguishable from themselves or any identifiable ideology, what sense does it make to be a member, unless it serves your own personal ambitions? If personal ambition is the main reason for someone joining a party, what does that say? Joseph Smallwood sold party loyalty to a generation of Newfoundlanders who paid dearly — and still pay dearly — for the calibre of politician that mentality returned to the House of
YOURVOICE ‘Unnecessarily kind’ to city councillors Dear editor, I am writing with respect to the comments by our new St. John’s Board of Trade president, Cathy Bennett (The very least taxpayers deserve, Jan 26 edition). She is being unnecessarily kind to the eight councillors who refused to support the lower mil rate reduction. Their understanding of how our budget works is, of course, primitive. Ron Ellsworth wants to do a line-byline analysis of the budget, Frank Galgay wants to cut the budget from four to eight per cent, instructing staff to do the dirty work. Shannie Duff said we never had enough time to address the issue of expenditure reductions during this budget round — this from somebody on council for over 20 years. How much time do you need? The reality is as follows: there are two categories of expenditures in our municipal budget, those that cannot be cut and those that can. There are some $59 million in expenditures that simply cannot be cut. They are fixed by contract, i.e. debt service, or they are estimated costs over which we have no
control other than trying to be frugal. There are some $95 million of expenditures that could be cut, including $72 million in salary and benefits. However, I have included in this category items such as capital expenses, Metrobus, grants and subsidies, and St. John’s Sports and Entertainment, for about $20 million in total. Reductions in these areas probably would not save the taxpayers any money. With respect to the $72-million salary budget, $15 million is for the fire department, and $13 million for snowclearing, leaving $44 million for other salaries for the whole organization. To achieve Galgay’s four per cent to eight per cent reduction in the overall budget — i.e. $6.5 million to $13 million reduction — council would have to eliminate 100 to 200 positions, which at $60,000 per job would require massive layoffs and reduction in services. In conclusion, the budget can certainly be cut but it cannot be cut without great controversy, to say the least. Andy Wells, Mayor of St. John’s
Assembly. It was the spotted dog syndrome — as in you could run one on a Liberal ticket in any riding and it would get elected. The Progressive Conservatives, under Frank Moores, were the antiLiberal party more than they believed in any real ideology. Peckford spent more like a modern-day New Democrat. Clyde Wells led the Liberals, who were more conservative than the Progressive Conservatives, to power. After Wells there were a few years of general ransacking and looting, and then came Williams, who in turn is nowhere near as conservative as the federal Conservatives. It makes your head swim. The only party that has been consistent ideologically are the New Democrats. That hasn’t worked for them. People sneer and say it is only the “ins” versus the “outs.” So? I am all about that, except the “outs” in Newfoundland politics always have such a tough time of it.
As I get older I am more and more skeptical about ideology. Ideology can blind people to reality. Centuries ago society decided it was wisdom incarnate to separate the church and the state. Religion and politics are a bad mix. Then along came ideology — capitalism, socialism, communism — and we had these quasi-religions mixed in politics again. The history of the 20th century is a brutal legacy of those religious clashes. Maybe simple managerial parties are the way to go. Maybe “teams” comprised of groups of people who have joined forces simply to offer their combined skills to the electorate ultimately make the best sense. Maybe we should believe in people more than beliefs. I didn’t know the man personally, but I always thought the late Rick Woodford was a pioneer in this area. A minister in Peckford’s administration, he switched parties, joining the Liberals and rising to become a minister in their government. He had the confidence of
his electorate and seemed capable and competent. He seemed to avoid the smear of opportunism that often tars people who switch parties. To paraphrase Mulroney, he was taken twice to the same dance, and acted like a gentleman both times. Do we need more of his type? I would love to see the level of education of the electorate raised to the point where the average voter did not vote for a politician based on what he or she could “get” for them. I would love to see politics where candidates could not get away with riding to victory on a leader’s coattails, where each district took a hard look at their local candidates and the best person won. I would love to see a House where two strong parties held each other to task on issues, vying for the favour of the electorate. You will excuse me if I don’t hold my breath. ivan.morgan@theindependent.ca
TICKET PRICES RISING
This week, Transport Canada approved a five-year $250 million plan for Marine Atlantic to upgrade the ferry service. But the government agency also wants Marine Atlantic to charge higher rates and collect a fuel charge — a decision criticized by the provincial government and the province's tourism community. Above, the Joseph and Clara Smallwood in Port aux Basques. Don Lane photo
Testing high school students for drugs
‘Democracy is dead in Newfoundland and Labrador’
Dear editor, It has been announced that Catholic high schools in Tampa, Fla. will check on drug use by students. They’re going to test high school students for use of eight different drugs, including alcohol. The program will start next fall and more than 730 students in the private school system will be screened annually. The first positive result will bring mandatory councilling and follow-up testing; the second will mean expulsion. “Students are very susceptible to peer pressure, and we know that
Dear editor, Author Chester Bowles once said, “Government is too big and too important to be left up to politicians.” Never have those words been truer than they are in Newfoundland and Labrador today. The latest auditor general report once again shows that politicians, in general, cannot be trusted. There may be the odd exception but overall we are governed by sticky fingered, self-centered opportunists who’d sell their soul for one more perk or one more chance to “play the game.” While earlier reports were eye opening, the latest report speaks of something far, far more sinister in the halls of Confederation Building. I’m referring to a complete breakdown of the electoral process and a sick perversion of democracy. The AG has reported that in 2004 MHAs were quietly granted an additional $2,800 because most had used up their constituency allowances earlier than
expected. When you consider that it’s already been reported, (and will be again) how these allowances were used for everything from fridge magnets to discretionary donations, it doesn’t take a big leap of logic to figure out where a lot of that money went. Elections are expensive. That’s why political parties have supporters who donate to them. The more popular they are the more donations they receive and the better chance they have to win. It’s
not rocket science. It’s also not the case in this province. Not when a sitting member has a pot of tax dollars at their disposal. That a sitting MHA would even consider using a taxpayer-funded allowance to help promote themselves and finance an election campaign is a sure sign that democracy is dead in Newfoundland and Labrador and the rotting stench of it crosses all party lines. The electoral process is intended to give everyone an opportunity to put their names forward for office in an honest and fair election. The fact that tax dollars could be used to illicitly finance a campaign and essentially buy a seat is sickening, repulsive and frightening in its connotations. I’ve heard that winning an election against an incumbent MHA is difficult and now I can fully understand why. When people can no longer trust their leaders and no longer depend on the very foundations of their democracy, can revolution be far behind? Myles Higgins, Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s
ter and of heart, with a core passion for this place and its people. Candidates do not necessarily have to have been born in Newfoundland or Labrador — it is their contribution that matters. “The Independent will assemble a panel to review the candidates and choose a Top 10. The 10 will not necessarily have received the most nominations. Panelists will include Independent columnists Ray Guy, John Crosbie, Golfman, Ivan Morgan, Siobhan Coady
and Ryan Cleary, as well as historian John FitzGerald. The panel will have extremely difficult and controversial decisions to make.” In summing up the search for notable Newfoundlanders, Ryan Cleary, editor of The Independent, said this about the search for great Newfoundlanders: “Here’s truth if you’re prepared to read it: there haven’t been that many great Newfoundlanders. There have certainly been a few — The Independent managed to put
together a list of 10 (Navigators, we call them) — but some were a little light on heroics, to the point it felt like the barrel’s bottom was being scraped (we’re talking true greatness here).” I hope that The Independent might take another look at the great Newfoundlanders who have served in uniform and include amongst them our contemporaries who have sacrificed in Afghanistan. Chairm Ohn, St. John’s
drugs have become increasingly prevalent in schools,” said a spokesperson. “We feel this screening and testing program will provide students a positive incentive to consider saying no.” Parents will be required to sign a testing consent form. This will help parents protect their children. Prior to this only athletes were tested. Perhaps in Newfoundland and Labrador, where there is a known problem with drugs and booze in our schools, this should be considered. Bill Westcott,Clarke’s Beach (Vacationing in Florida)
PM entitled to limited vision Dear editor, So Stéphane Dion “has a bold vision” for Newfoundland and Labrador? (‘The kind of prime minister I will be’, Feb. 2 edition.) Last time I looked, Mr. Dion was neither a
Newfoundlander nor a Labradorian. If he were one of these, he’d be entitled to a vision of his own life within our province, and little more. Colin Burke, Port au Port
There may be the odd exception but overall we are governed by sticky fingered, self-centered opportunists who’d sell their soul for one more perk or one more chance to “play the game.”
Top 10 Newfoundlanders in uniform Dear editor, A couple of years ago Noreen Golfman sat on a panel of seven judges to select the Top 10 Newfoundlanders and Labradorians of all time. Quote: “Our Navigators is a special project of The Independent, a celebration of ourselves — this place and its people, an examination of our identity, a way to reconnect with our history, for young people to learn where they come from. The paper, our readers, Newfound-
landers and Labradorians, and a panel of resident experts will help choose a Top 10 — and ultimately a No. 1.” To continue … “The only prerequisite for nominees is they must have helped chart Newfoundland and Labrador’s course during our 508-year history. Candidates can come from all walks of life — politicians, painters, academics, musicians, artists, intellectuals, business leaders, explorers, journalists … Potential Navigators must be strong of charac-
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The Independent’s Why I love NL contest has a winner — ALICIA COX of Conception Bay South Alicia’s name was drawn from the dozens and dozens of entries submitted from around the province. Some entries were short and sweet: “The only place that would freeze your arse, melt your heart, and take your breath away all in one day!” Other entries were wonderfully written I love Newfoundland because it’s the only place I have ever been where one never feels alone in a crowd. Betty Ford, Gander ••• I have lived in other provinces over the years. The simplest reason I can give for why I love Newfoundland and Labrador is that home is where the heart is. In the years living away from Newfoundland and Labrador, my heart was always here. That’s why I returned to my home. Elaine Budgell, Bay Bulls ••• I love Newfoundland because in our age of health obsessiveness you can find no less than four blow-out super high-calorie fish and chip restaurants — Ches’s, Johnnies, Leo’s, and the Big R — within a couple of hundred yards of each other in the capital city. And no one complains about it. Paul Butler, St. John’s ••• There are so many reasons why I love Newfoundland but perhaps the thing I love most is the unique language we have. Even when you are far away from home, it can make you feel like you are still in Newfoundland. I felt this first-hand when I was living in Alberta and was greeted with “Where are you from, my love?” by a cashier at the local Wal-Mart. Our language is the language of love, not just for lovers, but for everyone, with terms of endearment at every turn — my love, my ducky, my trout. The language is priceless and unique, just like our province! Paula Morgan, Seal Cove ••• So ye asks why I loves da rock? Well now, little Newfoundland newspaper, let me tell ya. Where else in the world can you drink Black Horse beer till tree t’irty in da marnin’ you asks? George Street, Newfoundland. Not only dat, you can kiss tree girls in a given night and yer buddy more than likely kissed more. We got da Avalon Mall — she’s rite wicked, where else can you go and have a coffee and a chat wit Leo Puddister, go watch TV at the Sony store and den catch dinner and a movie with Karl Wells. Newfoundland b’y, she’s some spot, always on da go, and getting’ better every day. John Tucker, Portugal Cove ••• The main reason I love Newfoundland is because I was born without a sense of direction, and people are always so helpful when I get lost. Everyone I have ever asked has helped and even if they don’t know the answer, they will find someone who does.
essays. All submissions were from the heart. Wrote Alicia: “I will remain, until the day I die, a proud Newfoundlander and Labradorian. I vow to do my part to continue to praise, share and celebrate Newfoundland and Labrador. For all of those who may be Jo-anne Stacey, Kelligrews
••• Our forests are brimming with rabbit and moose, birds, squirrels, brooks and streams. Our lakes are overflowing with trout, salmon and the like. For the most part, it is still safe to catch a stroll through any wooded area and take in some of nature’s arduous wonder. Our forests are home to a collage of greens. Every so often we experience four seasons in one day. Now pray tell, where else on earth can one boast such a weather phenomenon? Our culinary delights range from the eating of red meat that has been soaked in salt to beans saturated in molasses. Yet, we hold claim to some of the oldest living people in Canada. We fear nothing and take on the world. Most importantly, we are survivors, brimming over with compassion for our fellow man. Cathy Sheehan, St. John’s ••• N – nature trails E – entertainment W – wild berries F – flowers O – outdoors U – undeniable peacefulness N – Newfoundland Herald D – dories L – legends A – Atlantic Ocean N – nice people D – December snow Kathy Foster-Andrews, La Scie ••• I love Newfoundland and Labrador because there are lots of beautiful, tranquil places to visit, whether you appreciate the outdoor beauty of the trickling rivers or the sounds of the roaring waves or maybe just the peace and quiet. Rose O’Keefe, St. John’s ••• I love Newfoundland and Labrador with all my heart. I could travel this world over and not find what I have here. To experience four seasons in one day and not be afraid because I know everything will be OK. To stroll along in an outport or stand on a busy sidewalk in a city. To push a button and have the world at my fingertips or to sit on a wharf and watch the fishing boats return with their catch — as my mother did and her mother before her. To see the white sands and trees so tall I cannot see the tops, and they travel as far as my eyes can see. To watch the northern lights dance across the sky and flicker with joy. I know family members before me, my family now, and family to come will love Newfoundland and Labrador as I do. Marie Letemplier, Burin
reading this, may God bless Newfoundland and Labrador and God keep my home and native land.” Some of the other entries are published below. Happy Valentine’s Day, Newfoundland and Labrador!
••• I’ve promised the kids they can visit their Nan and Granddad in Newfoundland this July. We’re leaving the prairies far, far behind. Why do I still love it so much? Sometimes I think it takes moving away to make you realize that Newfoundland has such a uniqueness and rare beauty that is found not only in the land, but in the people. Janine Boone, Cold Lake, Alta. ••• One of my No. 1 reasons for loving Newfoundland and Labrador is that no
— Ryan Cleary matter where you go, where life will take you, you’ll always meet someone who is just as proud as you to say they’re a Newfoundlander. Pamela Snow, Journalism student, College of the North Atlantic Stephenville ••• I love the idea of living on an island. Outsiders don’t really understand how good we really have it here — the scenery, the people, yes, and even the weather (we don’t have to worry about tornadoes, earthquakes,
Leslie-Anne Stephenson in Harbourside Park, downtown St. John’s.
John Cabot gets an appreciative smooch in front of the Confederation Building.
hurricanes, etc.)
Lawrence Hedd, Pasadena
••• By far, the best thing is being surrounded by water. The second best thing is the whales. To be able to sit on Signal Hill and watch the whales is absolutely exhilarating. Wendy King, St. John’s ••• Because … Nan bore my 10-pound father in a wrought-iron bed in Burin.
Paul Daly/The Independent
I learned to jig cod and steer a komatik in Hopedale at six. I burned my soles on white Sandy Cove beaches and was soothed by a salt sea. Kevin Major knew my town when I was 13. A Pasadena boy gave the best first kiss. I have seen, through my living room window, whales breach in Bonavista Bay. My husband’s voice bears the hint of an Irish brogue. “Lavinia Andrews” helped me know my foremothers and find my “place.” I can flavour a lesson on Irish ballads by opening my east-facing window in Mobile. My 14-year-old son chooses Green, White and Pink for his wristband and flag on the wall in his room. My two small nephews met a baby moose last summer. You must voyage the North Atlantic to come and go. I prefer to keep my prairie birth a secret — until now! Leslie L. Kennedy, St. John’s ••• It’s the only place that would freeze your arse, melt your heart, and take your breath away all in one day! Cindy Ryan, Kippens ••• Other than the politicians, I cannot think of a reason not to love Newfoundland. Newfoundland is a place and time that embraces all people lucky enough to visit, live, or be born here. Newfoundland is a spirit that runs deeply through her people and her ages; this spirit touches and awes everyone who has ever watched her waves or seen her sunsets. Newfoundland is a mind-set — a manner of living in the present, respecting the past, and hoping for the future. Newfoundland is everything and can be anything to everyone who believes in her. Randolph J. Pittman, St. John’s ••• I love Newfoundland and Labrador because it is now my home where I have found the love of my life. Allison Hill, St. John’s (formerly of Saskatoon) ••• The most important reason I love Newfoundland is because of our people. We are, for the most part, a strong, independent and very proud people. Irene Eddy, Carbonear ••• Picture a warm August day, Saturday, weekend off, open boat, and
A special thank you to the “Why I Love Newfoundland and Labrador contest” sponsors:
Paul Daly/The Independent
all your provisions for the weekend aboard. Leave the sheltered harbour at Glovertown and motor to an area we refer to as the Beaches. Spend the day boating, picking mussels, and just sightseeing or exploring the many coves and beaches. You can drop in on any of the cabins in the area because you know almost everyone who has a cabin here. Come evening find a nice spot, pitch your tent, build your campfire, cook your mussels or the catch of the day. Later that evening, just as darkness falls, you’re sure to hear the loons call as you bed down for the night. This is my idea of a great weekend in a great place we call Newfoundland Labrador. Wouldn’t trade it for all the riches of Alberta. Albert Janes, Glovertown ••• I love sunny mornings when it’s so cold that you can count the smoke stacks after the sun has come up over the Southside Hills in St. John’s. I love Topsail Beach on a hot, sunny day; on a cold, foggy day; at sunset; and in the evening with campfires lighting up the shore. I love brunch at Beachy Cove, lunch on Duckworth Street and dinner on Water Street. I love shopping downtown. I love picnics at the Ferryland lighthouse in summer. I love blueberry and partridgeberry picking in the fall. I love Northern Bay. I love The Rooms. I love the May 24th weekend and St. Patrick’s Day. I love the Santa Claus parade. I love the Christmas craft fair. I love being tucked inside our house on a stormy day. I love Bowring Park any day at all. I love watching hockey games with the fans at Mile One. I love the views, I love the trails, I love the people. I love how tourists come here and think they’ve found the bestkept secret and can’t wait to come back! I love looking out my airplane window as we are landing in Torbay and feeling overwhelmingly happy that I am home! Cindy Callanan, St. John’s ••• The father-in-law’s cabin last September. The food cod fishery had reopened and we wanted another go at it. It was the last weekend for the fishery, and although we didn’t get many, the pleasure of being on the water and hauling one over the side was perfect. The fried tongues and bellies right out of the water were some good! Blueberries were ripe too! A nice walk up over the hill to pick a few berries for a good feed later on. Later that evening called for a few games of 500s and a glass or two of Newfoundland’s favourite. (I’m too sheepish to say what it is). I always get to shut off the generator at
the end of the night, and on clear nights I stay outside and look at the stars. There is no doubt that we’re closer to heaven by sea. I’ve been to Toronto a few times, but I’ve never seen a star. Rough cost $150. Estimated cost on the mainland (without the saltwater, stars, or cod) — $600. Gas to travel to Trinity — $25. Gas for the boat — $30. Food and other — $60. Required liquids — $35. A weekend out on the bay with steamed blueberry pudding as a bonus — priceless. Is it any wonder I love Newfoundland & Labrador? Noel Anthony, Gander ••• Maybe it’s our smiling lands, or perhaps because I’m a Danny fan ... The love for my province stretches far and wide, from Buchans East, to Riverside — whether it’s skiing at Marble Mountain, or just sittin’ by South River troutin’, Newfoundland is my home and there’s nowhere else I’d rather roam. But if, like so many, I wander west, point me towards where I like best. Just turn me ’round and point me east, with the sun at my back and the winds at my feet. Then just watch the smoke rise from my heels Tellin’ Paul McCartney “leave ’lone the seals.” Ontario has the CN Tower, and PEI with its potato flowers, but on the rock, we got Newfie Power! I love Newfoundland, it’s the home of my birth. I hope I win your contest and all that’s its worth. Mandy Tilley, Conception Bay South ••• I have been living here for almost four years after leaving my home in Ontario. This is an easy question for me. I love Newfoundland and Labrador because it has given me my soonto-be husband! Happy Valentine’s Day! Joanna Clements, St. John’s ••• We may live on an island but our doors are open to all, and people come from all over the world to see our little piece of heaven. Our land it is so beautiful and filled with culture and history. I think our Ode says it all. It pays tribute to our ancestors who endured hardships to settle here and to make a life harvesting its meagre resources. We are all descendants of these people and we all pledge our love to land and sea. Violet Ryan, St Johns
••• I was in Ontario 20 years ago for two years and I decided I had enough and came home. The plane was blocked to the rafters and when the plane was landing in St John’s there wasn’t a squeak, you could hear a pin drop. When the plane landed there was a big sigh of relief from most of the passengers. A lady sitting next to me from Vancouver said that she had flown all over Canada and this was the first time she experienced this (the sigh of relief) and she understood why all Newfoundlanders wanted to come home. Roland Wade ••• We may not have everything we want or deserve as a province, republic or a people, but what we do have is deep in the hearts and minds of every born Newfoundlander, the desire to be ourselves with our own true identity. We are truly free, and when I say that, I mean it. Shawn Lewis, Offshore worker ••• I love Newfoundland and Labrador because the people possess social skills that allow them to adapt to, function, and get along with all people of the world regardless of the circumstances and/or location on the planet. Dave (Skipper) Simms, St. Anthony (currently stationed in North Bay, Ont. with the Canadian Forces) ••• There is no other place like it in the world and there is so much to discover here if one is willing to explore. There are so many nooks and crannies that I have yet to photograph, I only hope to capture it all some day! From the dense woods to the endless ocean that surrounds us, I can’t imagine not living close to the water. This is where I belong. Rebecca C. Pike, Stephenville ••• Why do I love Newfoundland? Because it’s home. Tanya Saunders, Conception Bay South ••• The Tetley (cup of) tea is a welcome sign. When a door is opened, no matter who you are or what time, the kettle is on and a good chat to follow. We love our province and take great pride in where we have come from. What more is there in life than a sense of family and pride of who you are and where you come from? That is why I love Newfoundland. Melissa Torraville, Mount Pearl (originally from Fogo, Fogo Island) •••
I love Newfoundland because this is where I was born and raised. I met my beloved husband in this province and have built a wonderful life here. It is more than just a “place.” One can live and survive practically anywhere, but roots mean something. It is this essence of capturing and holding on to a culture that is so unique and fulfilling in a world that is often wracked with turmoil and uncertainty. Kristine Hibbs, Goulds ••• The Lewis Hills in western Newfoundland is a section of the Long Range Mountains located in an area stretching between Stephenville in the south and Lark Harbour in the north. There are no trails in the Lewis Hills, only plenty of unspoiled wilderness, spectacular canyons, waterfalls, and snow that lasts into late summer. A friend and I spent three days hiking and camping in these gorgeous hills over Labour Day weekend last year. The experience of being so up close and personal to one of God’s majestic masterpieces is like no other. Aiden Mahoney, Stephenville ••• I love Newfoundland because we are a close-knit people, and everybody knows somebody. I love Newfoundland because I don’t have to wait in bumper-to-bumper traffic for hours on end to get to work. I love Newfoundland because my neighbours are my friends. I love Newfoundland because my family is here. I love Newfoundland because it is a safe place to raise my child. And I want him to have the same kind of childhood memories I have. I love Newfoundland because of Newfoundlanders. I love our wit, our sarcasm, our quickness and most of all, our humour. I love Newfoundland because it is home. Angie Bishop, Conception Bay South ••• Why do I love Newfoundland? Because it’s not Ontario. Because it’s not the Northwest Territories. Just because it’s Newfoundland. Sheldon M. Walsh (Another fighting Newfoundlander), Fort Simpson, NWT ••• I guess the thing that best shows how much I love this province is the fact that I moved away from my family and friends to be here. From the first time I came to Newfoundland, I knew that this is where I was meant to be. The island spoke to me. Debra Lockhart-Mayo, Creston South
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
10 • INDEPENDENTNEWS
YOURVOICE
Editorial
Rick Mercer/Noreen Golfman exchange over Afghanistan mission draws huge response By Ryan Cleary Editor-in-chief
T
Comedian Rick Mercer
Independent columnist Noreen Golfman
Comedian Rick Mercer tapes a segment for his Christmas Special after arriving at Kabul International Airport, Afghanistan. Sgt Alain Martineau, Canadian Forces Combat Camera
he Independent has received unprecedented response to a recent letter to the editor by Newfoundland comedian Rick Mercer, which generated more than 80 written responses and dozens more inquiries, primarily from members of the Canadian Armed Forces stationed around the world. Published in the Jan. 20 edition, Mercer’s letter (headlined Fighting words) was critical of a Jan. 12 column (Blowing in the wind …) by Independent columnist Noreen Golfman. Golfman questioned the nature of the media coverage of the war in Afghanistan. Wrote Golfman, “When was it suddenly acceptable for your garden variety progressive, satire-loving celebrity to hug the troops, praise military actions, and pass the ammunition without so much as a hint of dissent or any questioning of the value of the mission, not to mention it’s obviously U.S.linked agenda? “If it wasn’t a story about some poor sod’s legs being blown off then it was an extended interview with some dead soldier’s parents.” Golfman wrote how she expected to get some “ugly” reaction — and she did. Some of the letters forwarded to Golfman, a professor of women’s studies and literature at Memorial, as well as The Independent, were mean-spirited. Many soldiers questioned Golfman’s right to say what she did, even though freedom of speech is one of the democratic fundamentals that the Canadian Forces is trying to bring to Afghanistan. Mercer, who visited Afghanistan during Christmas, took exception to Noreen’s comment about the “poor sod” who lost his legs (the soldier, Cpl. Paul Franklin, is a friend of Mercer’s). “By all means ask the questions Noreen, but surely such debates can occur without begrudging the families of injured soldiers too much airtime at Christmas.” Further, he wrote, “the gates of Auschwitz were not opened with peace talks.” Mercer’s letter circulated with the “speed
of sound” through the Canadian Forces via the Internet. The Independent also received dozes of requests for copies of Golfman’s original column. Golfman’s response to the furor can be found on page 19. The following is a sample of some of the letters forwarded to the paper: I leave my family soon to start training to join the Canadian Forces in Afghanistan. The article by Ms. Golfman reinforces the need for men and women to serve and participate in missions like the current one. I am proud of what we Canadian soldiers really represent to the citizens of Afghanistan — hope. Paul Franklin (a soldier who lost his two legs in Afghanistan) would not want anyone upset by Ms. Golfman’s opinions, he would insist that we celebrate them and marvel about how free she is to express them. He would make one fantastic guest speaker to a women’s issue forum, simply because he has actually done something to improve women’s lives. Charles Powell (reserve soldier), Wainwright, Alta. ••• Bravo to Rick Mercer for his response to Noreen Golfman’s insensitive and narrowminded view of Canadian soldiers’ efforts and the sometime tragic results while deployed in Afghanistan. Rick is a proud Newfoundlander and great friend to the Canadian Armed Forces. Rick is a great ambassador for Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada. I don’t think Noreen Golfman can put that on her resume. Frank English, Halifax, N.S. ••• Today, Feb. 6, I received an e-mail from a buddy of mine in Halifax. At first I thought it was a joke, but as I started reading it I realized the seriousness of it. I’m talking about the article that Rick Mercer wrote in response to Noreen Golfman. On behalf of myself and all my friends in Afghanistan,
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FEBRUARY 9, 2007
INDEPENDENTNEWS • 11
YOURVOICE
bombardment ••• Congratulations (and many thanks) to Rick Mercer for his eloquent article. Readers of The Independent should know that their paper has circulated the globe as a result of it. It’s a shame that narrow-minded, self-important and opinionated people like Ms. Golfman chose to make such ill-thought comments. How ironic that this was a freedom that the very people in uniform she derides had fought and died for so long ago. How quickly some people forget. S. Banerjee, Khartoum, Sudan
thank you for letting Mr. Mercer speak his mind. I send his articles to all my buddies in Afghanistan. Petty Officer 1st Class Bob Giguère St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Que. ••• Rick Mercer’s letter reminded me of something he once said back in his early career. I don’t have the exact words but it was when he was living in St. John’s. He claimed that he was staying there because what kind of hypocrite would he be making art about Newfoundland and living in Toronto. How things have changed. That would have esteemed him high amongst the parochial rubber-boot crowd at the time and probably helped propel him along to greater things. In supporting the troops, he’s playing the same old game of telling the audience what they want to hear. Satire? Satire is supposed to cut to the bone and ask the toughest questions. It is funny ’cause it hurts. The satire that Rick and his fellow sycophants (22 Minutes and Air Farce) at the CBC and elsewhere dole out is about as cutting edge as a plastic knife at Ches’s. You know there’s a problem when the politicians line up to get on these various shows. There are so few artists asking the tough questions because they are afraid to offend anyone and lose a steady source of state-sponsored funding. Rick Mercer’s support of the troops is a pathetic pandering to the hand that feeds him. There are so many other worthy causes that an entertainer like himself could apply himself to. Least of all would be the Okie-like migration of the people of this island because of a centralist Canadian agenda. We don’t want handouts, we just want the same economic treatment of other provinces (go Danny go), including the hefty support of almost every industry you can think of in Ontario, including, guess who, the CBC. If Rick’s serious about other causes such as the plight of women, maybe he should think about supporting more troops in Darfur, or helping Steven Lewis out on AIDS awareness, or those really important issues that North American media are so adverse to telling us about. You wouldn’t see American satirists like John Stewart in the USO. They have more important things to do. These are serious issues, Rick, and we have enough “good old” funny Newfoundlanders to fill a hundred stereotypes. What we need is a few bad Newfoundlanders telling an informed truth, about why we live and fight and die as serfs in this country. Paul Whittle, St. John’s ••• Rick Mercer hit the nail on the head. No peace has been truly attained by peacekeeping. I served with the military for 33 years. Two tours of Cyprus — 1974 when the Turks invaded the island and then later in the 1980s and I also served in the Golan Heights. Truly, in many instances Canadian sailors, soldiers and
••• We watch the The Rick Mercer Report faithfully and are always entertained by the show’s material. We pray every day for the safe return of all Canadian troops; may they soon be able to watch Rick Mercer and others like him from the comfort and safety of their living rooms. Ginette Chiasson Chéticamp, Cape Breton Rick Mercer charms the crowd with his Newfoundland charm during a Christmas night concert for Canadian troops at the Kandahar Airfield in the newly built Canadian gym, December 25, 2006. Photo by Corporal David McCord, Deployed Imagery Support Team, Kandahar Air Field
airmen have only been targets between two combatants who really mean to kill each other to achieve their goal. It did have some meaningful results in temporarily stopping them from hurting each other, but in many cases, even today, they are still fighting each other. Cyprus is still divided and the border between Israel and her neighbours still fraught with danger and death. Mr. Mercer is a strong Canadian celebrity who can rationalize that true peace means fighting for it. Claude R. Lalonde, Edmonton, Alta. ••• I am not a soldier, nor come from a family of soldiers. That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Rick’s letter. I always considered myself a light supporter of our role in Afghanistan, but I have found that support becoming stronger every day. I wish every Canadian could read that letter, not just Noreen. Pierre Baertsoen, London, Ont. ••• As a Newfoundlander currently living in the Middle East (non-military), I was shocked at Noreen Golfman’s views. Newfoundlanders pride themselves on their loyalty and camaraderie — she must have missed that class! My perspective would not have been quite as clear had I not been living in the Middle East. I have seen and learned things that have left me rather shocked. The moment my naive self loses that shock factor, well, that is when I lose a part of myself. A part of myself that has been instilled in me since birth — instilled in all of us “true” Newfoundlanders. Milinda Hedges (Penton) Former resident of Mount Pearl/ St. John’s, Nabih Saleh, Bahrain
••• I had never heard about your paper until today. Rick Mercer’s article is flying around the Internet at the speed of sound. I probably would have heard about Noreen’s article sooner if I had been at work. I’m an avionics technician with the Canadian Air Force. As a woman, I find the thought that Noreen was, at one time, the co-ordinator of the graduate program in women’s studies at Memorial disturbing. Anyone who can have so little respect for another human being should not in any way be in charge of any form of education. I will stop myself here. I am so angry I could write for days. Faith Clayton, British Columbia ••• As a retired army officer and the proud father of two soldier sons, I would like to say thank you to Mr. Mercer and to the editor of The Independent. We all agree that war is a terrible and a horrific endeavour and that fighting is not always the answer. However, thanks to the strong leadership of my old friend General Rick Hillier we are once again pulling our weight in the world. We fight injustice; we fight ignorance; and we fight terror. Chuck Oliviero, PhD Lieutenant Colonel (Retired), Kingston, Ont. ••• It is comforting to know there are dedicated Canadians such as Rick Mercer who support the military so strongly. I am confident that Ms. Golfman is much more educated than I am, however what I think she may not fully understand is that as the Canadian military, we don’t just decide to leave our families and head into harm’s way. We simply go where our government (elected by Canadians remember) tells us. Ms. Golfman, you may not agree
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with why we are in Afghanistan, but as a human being and as a Canadian, the least you could do is respect the sacrifice that the young men and women of this country are making. Russ Mullen, Currently stationed in Wainwright, Alta. ••• While I do not decry anyone’s right to question the campaign in Afghanistan (I have done so with my own MP, Stephen Fletcher) I am appalled when those further left than me (but way more right-wing in their behaviour) make their own personal discomfort the issue. Those from the Middle East have it all over us in their approach to these conflicts. We sit at home impatiently measuring time by the nanosecond while they are prepared to wait hundreds of years or more for victory. And while they mourn an individual loss they accept the loss of an individual for the greater cause. The only Canadians who come close to exhibiting that level of selflessness are our own serving sons and daughters. As a parent of two of those sons, one who has already served over there and looks forward to his return with his brother and “brothers” at his side a year from now, I am stretched to the limit trying to be patient with those who are so publicly short-sighted and self-centred. As a complete side note, more Canadians will die in snowmobile crashes this year than have been lost in the entire Afghanistan campaign. Where is the hue and cry about that truly senseless loss of life? Howard Skrypnyk, Winnipeg (not far from CFB Shilo)
••• I just read the rebuttal letter by Rick Mercer, which was sent to me by my son, a SARTECH in B.C., and I say bravo to Rick for taking the time and effort to rebut an all too prevalent attitude among many misguided and uninformed Canadians. Emmet Lecompte, London, Ont. ••• Noreen, why? Why would you stoop so low as to take potshots at the men and women who are fighting for the likes of you? The irony is that you are earning a living from an institution that stands to recognize those very people who you consider “poor sods.” While we all have the right to express our comments, minimizing the commitment and sacrifice these men and women are making only serves to demoralize our troops and reduce their role to that of soldiers playing games. Anthony Janes, Mount Pearl ••• When I read stories of our troops’ sacrifices, the last thing I feel is guilt for my current comfortable circumstances. I have earned my way with service to my country. In my day I have served with the infantry and as a medical officer. What I do feel when I read them is thanks for such fine men and women presently serving our country, pride to have once been one of them, and yes, a bit of shame that I no longer am. I hope the Noreen Golfmans of the world never have to suffer the way our troops do, for that will mean our soldiers’ efforts will have been successful. M.J. Ackermann, MD, LCdr (ret) Rural Family Physician, Sherbrooke, N.S. Also see Noreen Golfman’s column on page 19
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
12 • INDEPENDENTNEWS
VOICE FROM AWAY
‘A personal test’ St. John’s native Matthew Gillard tracks human rights in war-torn Sri Lanka By Anshuman Iddamsetty For The Independent
M
atthew Gillard never feels alone walking the sand-stained streets of Sri Lanka — he’s too busy being the centre of attraction in the small town of Puttalam. “People offer me rides … on motorcycles to wherever I need to go — and stop to say ‘hi.’ On occasion, random people invite me to dinner,” says the 25-year-old St. John’s native. “They’re being nice … (they) are just surprised to see a foreigner this far north and want to figure out why he’s here.” It’s a comforting change from the usual clichés of a stranger in a strange land. “A lot of people (there) haven’t traveled much … I don’t begrudge their curiosity.” A graduate of Memorial University with an degree in political science and French, and a master’s degree in political science from University of British Columbia, Gillard now works for the Community Trust Fund (CTF), a Sri Lankan non-governmental organization that helps track human rights issues and community development across the wartorn country. “My official title is essentially information and documentation officer. I play a large role in managing the organization’s information — I take data from the organization’s field offices, many of which are combat zones, throughout Sri Lanka and I compile (them) into reports that the organization can use.” Gillard focused his graduate studies on international relations and defence, primarily the weaponizing of outer space. He freely admits his decision to go to Sri Lanka was slightly unorthodox. “This job is a (definite) shift … since it focuses heavily on development and
Matthew Gillard
Sri Lankan traditional drummers perform during the Buddhist procession in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Feb. 1, 2007.
community work, and not weapons traveling through space.” Though the opportunity to move so far away came as a result of clever networking — the kind that involves lengthy politicking and chance friendships during his time in British Columbia — Gillard emphasizes the personal importance of his choice: “This is about testing my morality. “My background is in defence. Hence I asked for a war-torn region,” adds Gillard. “To be absolutely sure that you support defence — and the moral stakes of supporting defence are high, so you must be sure — I believed it would be useful to gain more experience a place where war was actually taking place. “And to be sure I could accept that morally, I decided (to) take this position … It was more a personal test of whether I could support the defence establishment.”
The seriousness of his post hasn’t dulled Gillard’s appreciation for the Sri Lankan lifestyle and its quirks. “KFC, McDonald’s, Pizza Hut are all here in Colombo,” referring to the country’s capital city. “The first song I heard when I landed here was (Justin Timberlake’s) SexyBack.” Though reminders of North America are welcome, Gillard is more interested with the local fare. “Ah, the food is very good … and the people are very nice. “Their culture is very communal. Privacy isn’t valued as highly either. I was accepted very quickly … they readily embrace friends and treat them like family.” Perhaps the most striking difference of life in Sri Lanka is the more relaxed pace of things compared to the frantic bustle of North American living. “The nature of time here … things are slower (and) happen one or two days later than expected,
or longer.” Past the city’s borders, however, are steady reminders of the constant clash between Sri Lankan military and Tamil Tiger terrorists, though they have yet to sour Gillard’s outlook. “I enjoy working here … People back home sometimes think that since large swaths of the country are combat zones, that the whole place must be unsafe. That’s simply not true … Puttalam is extremely safe.” Living 120 kilometres from the closest war zone, Gillard has had a chance to gather his fair share of odd memories between shifts. To keep himself amused and generally distracted from the blistering heat — which he describes as worse than Ottawa in the summer — Gillard has tried to get the most out of exploring the many paths that snake through Puttalam. “My attempts to run in relative peace
Buddhika Weerasinghe/Reuters
were unsuccessful. Children started biking next to me and asking for money,” says Gillard of his first attempt to exercise, see more of the town, and subsequently get lost. It’s become a regular occurrence, and if the children aren’t on bikes, they’re still able to keep up a solid pace. He admits the poverty around the city does take its toll on him. These facets of Sri Lankan life emphasize how far away home really is. Despite his fascinating job and his many experiences with the friendly culture, the loneliness of being the only Newfoundlander for miles is hard to ignore. “Whenever I think I’ve evolved beyond homesickness … it always finds me.” Do you know a Newfoundlander or Labradorian living away? Please e-mail editorial@theindependent.ca.
ERGONOMIC AWARENESS WORKSHOP
PREVENTION WORKSHOP SERIES - Recognizing Ergonomic Risks in the Workplace
Preventing soft tissue injuries is important in any work environment and ergonomics is an essential part of an occupational health and safety program. This is the first awareness workshop in a series of three. Look for Evaluation of Ergonomic Risk Factors in June and Controlling Ergonomic Risk Factors in October. In part 1, participants will gain knowledge of: ] Methods of determining what risk factors exist in the workplace; ] The process for recognizing ergonomic risk factors in the workplace; ] Practical exercises and case studies specifically focusing on identifying ergonomic risk factors.
Date and Location l St. John’s, Holiday Inn Monday, February 26 Tuesday, February 27
(Workshop start time 9:00 a.m.)
REGISTRATION IS FREE To register for workshops please call Valerie Ducey at (709)778-2926, toll-free 1-800-563-9000 or e-mail vducey@whscc.nl.ca Visit our website www.whscc.nl.ca
PRIME
AROUND THE BAY Early last week there was an urgent appeal broadcast to the people of St. John’s asking them to stop any wastage of water as there was a dangerous shortage in the city reservoirs. First we accepted it at face value, feeling the sympathy that only kindred sufferers could know. We, too, are suffering from a severe water shortage, and with smiles of tender compassion, we silently tendered our condolence to the metropolis to the north. However, after the first impulsive, sympathetic tears were shed and cold reason mounted her throne once, we remembered that peculiarly enough the shortage of water strangely coincided with the arrival in the capital of the last shipment of rum! — The Fishermen’s Advocate, Port Union, Feb. 5, 1943 AROUND THE WORLD Cable dispatches from England indicate that the Home Government is greatly troubled over the Newfoundland problem. Newfoundland, as a colony, cannot possibly be in such a hopeless condition as it is at present represented. The colony is not bankrupt. Its debt is not much larger than it was a year ago. The sources of revenue are not dried up. If half the leading firms are unable to carry on business and pay their debts, the business of the country will be carried on by other men who will probably do it a great deal better. — The Daily News, St. John’s, Feb. 5, 1895 YEARS PAST The Allan Bill of Lading is one of those incomprehensible, inscrutable things the depths of which no fellow can fathom. There is no possible circumstance or event which can surround or happen to an importer’s goods uncovered by this blessed Bill of Lading. The Company invite you to freight by then, and you do so; but there are 99 chances to a 100 that you never see the goods you have paid for, or expect to pay for in 4 months hence, in the condition in which they were at purchase. You have signed the Bill of Lading, and Shylock takes your pound of flesh — nay, he may take all your flesh, for disarrangement of his arrangements to a business man may mean business death. — The Morning Chronicle, St. John’s, Feb. 3, 1880 EDITORIAL STAND In the past week a statement by Mr. Carl Marshall of Flat Bay was released urging people to write the Minister of Indian Affairs and oppose Newfoundland Indian claims. Mr. Marshall claimed the Micmacs made no contribution to this Province and his
St. John’s Chronicle, Feb. 4, 1910
European ancestors had made too large a contribution to take land claims lightly. Let me point out that Indian People led the way for Europeans in this province. No white man was capable of leaving the shore line without the assistance of an Indian Guide. It is documented by Europeans who visited this Island. — The Caribou, Feb. 28, 1981 LETTER TO THE EDITOR Dear Sir — I would like to reply to Mr. (or Mrs.) Observer who penned a few paragraphs in last week’s issue regarding the selling of hardware after six. If that person owns a store I would say it is jealousy and if not I would say he or she wrote just for something to do and cause annoyance. Most people work during the same hours that a store is open. As far as groceries are concerned the wife or children can get them, but if I want a hammer, saw, or other such thing which I have to pick out it seems like I will have to hire “Observer” to buy them. — The Speaker, Bay Roberts, Feb. 21, 1953 QUOTE OF THE WEEK Yesterday was one of the most stormy days of the present severe winter. The Athenaeum Lecture was necessarily postponed, and a general stay-at-home feeling prevailed. — The Morning Chronicle, St. John’s, Feb. 17, 1880
INDEPENDENTBUSINESS
FRIDAY THROUGH THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9-15, 2007 — PAGE 13
Making a case
By Stephanie Porter The Independent
T
Thanks to the latest St. John’s/Mount Pearl land dispute, amalgamation rears its head again
St. John’s
Paul Daly/The Independent
Mount Pearl
Paul Daly/The Independent
his spring, lawyer John Roil will complete a review of Mount Pearl’s municipal boundaries. The city, literally hemmed in by St. John’s and running out of room for expansion, is eyeing a largely undeveloped tract east of Commonwealth Avenue, home of the experimental farm and the former Sprung greenhouse. St. John’s doesn’t intend to let the land, and the potential tax revenue it stands for, go easily. The dispute has dredged up talk of a larger boundary issue: the potential amalgamation of St. John’s, Mount Pearl and Paradise. Which is enough to make Mount Pearl Mayor Steve Kent sigh in frustration. “Amalgamation, from our perspective, is very much a non-issue,” Kent says. “Every time there’s a discussion about an issue of regional importance, there are certain members of the St. John’s council that use it as an opportunity to say, oh, we should amalgamate … “They deflect from talking about the real issues in the region by simply saying, ‘here we go again, we should all amalgamate.” But over in St. John’s, Mayor Andy Wells says amalgamation is the issue — and it’s hardly a new one. He names several studies, done at Memorial University and privately, that have examined the issue as far back as 1964. In March 2001, John Heseltine of ATi Consulting released a report commissioned by the City of St. John’s. Heseltine recommended amalgamation as beneficial to business and fairer to taxpayers, though with uncertain financial benefits. “There is no point in further hesitation,” he wrote. Wells says his government is updating Hesletine’s report for the upcoming boundary review hearings. The mayors are in polar opposition on this one, and have made no secret of it. Kent says his council’s stance on amalgamation has nothing to do with community identity — it’s a matter of economics for the people he represents. “Time and time again across North America, we have seen two things happen when there’s been an amalgamation in an urban centre: taxation levels have gone up; and service levels have gone down,” Kent says. From his perspective, the municipalities of the northeast Avalon — namely St. John’s, Mount Pearl, and Paradise — are already co-operating where it makes sense. Any further merging is unnecessary. “This week, we approved a partnership with the Town of Paradise where we’re going to hire one IT resource person together to share between the communities because
that makes economic sense,” he says. “That’s the kind of economic cooperation that happens in the region that nobody hears about, because of the drama that’s stirred from the chamber on Gower Street.” Kent points out his city and Paradise also share animal control services; Mount Pearl pays to use fire, water, and waste management services mainly provided by St. John’s. Kent has another point to make on amalgamation. He views a super-city sized St. John’s as “a monopoly. “And a monopoly isn’t good for business and it certainly wouldn’t be good for taxpayers,” he says. “Competition is not a bad word; and we do keep each other honest. We keep each other’s taxation levels and services in check.” Wells doesn’t see it that way. “You mean we’re keeping taxes down because we got Mount Pearl out there? That’s got nothing to do … that’s a red herring.” Wells is focused on competition at a different level — one he thinks amalgamation could help with. “The reality is we’re competing with Halifax,” he says. “We’re not competing with Mount Pearl and Paradise, and we should all be singing out of the same songbook and you sing out of that same songbook through a unified voice.” He predicts amalgamation would save at least $2 million in staffing and other redundancies. He also brings up “taxation equity”: according to Wells, the businesses and industrial parks in Mount Pearl are bringing in great revenue for that town — but using the St. John’s harbour, airport and road system to achieve their goals. “The fire department, water, sewerage treatment plant, Robin Hood Bay are going to continue to be operated by the City of St. John’s, so what have you got?” he asks. “They’ll argue they’re paying their fair share, but … and regional facilities like Mile One, which benefit the region, but it’s the municipal taxpayers of St. John’s that carry the burden.” Wells could not say municipal taxes in St. John’s would necessarily go down — but believes the weight would be distributed more evenly. “And, sure, you’d have 20 less politicians and that’s got to be considered a good thing, isn’t it?” The province has a policy against forced amalgamation, which both leaders recognize. “The provincial government is clear,” says Kent. “It’s very much a waste of taxpayers’ time to be continuing to talk about it, from our perspective.” It’s Wells’ turn to sigh. “There will not be forced amalgamation, so that’s the reality we have to deal with. There’s nothing we can do, just try and make the case as best we can.” stephanie.porter@theindependent.ca
Equalization battle should be No. 1
T
he environment has taken centre stage in the national political sphere these days, and it is apparently a top-of-mind issue for most Canadians. But for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, with so much at stake, equalization should be the No. 1 federal issue in the immediate term among people in this province. As the debate over equalization rages on, it would be wise for us all to make sure we’re squarely behind Premier Danny Williams and that we don’t lose sight of the vital importance of this issue to Newfoundland and Labrador. There’s still a lot of mystery and intrigue around what the Stephen Harper government might ultimately do to rework the infamous equalization program. What is certain to our provincial government is that keeping non-
CATHY BENNETT
Board of Trade renewable natural resource revenues as a tax base in the new formula would be a major setback to the provincial coffers today and in the future. It would seriously limit our ability to pay for critical public services, programs and infrastructure. It would be even harder to stay on track towards a sustainable fiscal position, something our current provincial government has worked hard to achieve. The principle of excluding all nonrenewable resource revenues from equalization is one worth fighting for. For years, the St. John’s Board of Trade
has advanced this very principle to the national stage with the largest business association in the country, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. The rub is that revenue from nonrenewable natural resources (such as our offshore oil) is considered, incorrectly, as income under the current program. Instead, these resources should be thought of as capital assets. Nonrenewable resources are by definition finite. Therefore, when oil, for example, is extracted, the asset is converted to cash, it is liquidated, and the resource is exhausted, resulting in no net fiscal gain to the province. Once the oil is gone, it’s gone for good, as opposed to other tax bases in the equalization calculation that are renewable sources of revenue.
But the big question continues to be: what will the Harper government do with equalization in respect to non-renewable natural resources? But the big question continues to be: what will the Harper government do with equalization in respect to nonrenewable natural resources? We should know the answer based on Mr. Harper’s prior commitment. The Conservative Party’s election platform
stated the objective was to “ensure that non-renewable natural resource revenue is removed from the equalization formula to encourage economic growth.” Just recently, as reported in an Alberta newspaper, Harper said, “The platform is the platform. I’ve never said that we’ve changed the commitment.” There’s been skepticism about whether his government will actually deliver fully on that commitment. A federally commissioned expert panel on equalization released a controversial report last year that put forward a number of recommendations for improving the program. Some of those recommendations received a fair amount of support, such as switching See “Division,” page 14
14 • INDEPENDENTBUSINESS
Division among the provinces From page 13 from the current calculation of the revenue-raising capacities of five provinces, to a 10-province standard, which would seem to be a more representative measure. But other recommendations were flatly rejected by Newfoundland and Labrador and other provinces. Premier Williams was quick to express vehement opposition, for instance, to the notion that only 50 per cent of revenues from resources (renewable and non-renewable alike) should be factored into determining the size of the equalization pool. He also shot down the idea of introducing a cap to ensure that no receiving province would end up with a fiscal capacity higher than that of the lowest non-receiving province (i.e. Ontario). These provisions may look good to Ontario, but would undercut Newfoundland and Labrador and sev-
eral other provinces. There is still much division among the provinces over how equalization should be revised. That said, support is definitely growing behind Newfoundland and Labrador’s position that it should include removing 100 per cent of non-renewable natural resource revenues from the formula. Our most outspoken ally is Saskatchewan, but Alberta and British Columbia also appear to be onside. Since the debate over the fiscal imbalance in this country reached new heights last year, the pressure has been building on the federal government to fix equalization. The moment of truth is nearing. The federal budget isn’t far off and it promises to provide some answers. Let’s hope, in this case, the platform is indeed the platform. Cathy Bennett is the president of the St. John’s Board of Trade.
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
‘They are gutless’ Questions surround C-NLOPB’s Hibernia South decision By Ivan Morgan The Independent
N
atural Resources Minister Kathy Dunderdale says the CNLOPB exceeded its mandate in a letter critiquing her recent decision to reject a development application the board had recommended she approve. She says only the board can explain why it decided to write that letter. “It surprised me. It was not something that I was prepared to let slide,” Dunderdale tells The Independent. She says while she is very respectful of the board and the job it does regulating the offshore oil industry, the roles of the board and the minister are clearly outlined in the Atlantic Accord. The board took a step that is outside both its mandate and the process, she continues, which was “entirely inappropriate.” Dunderdale says she does not want to engage in a public debate around the Hibernia South decision. “Which is why I have written them and said ‘This is not on.’” When asked if the province’s public battle to have Andy Wells instead of Max Ruelokke appointed as head of the board coloured relations between the province and the board, Dunderdale says she needs to concern herself with her role as minister. “They’re all big boys and girls down there,” says Dunderdale. “And I have to believe that they understand the responsibilities that they’re charged with too. “So I have to assume that Mr. Ruelokke is doing what he is supposed to be doing. I also make the same assumption about (St. John’s mayor and Canada Newfoundland-Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board member) Mr. Wells.” Wells recently spoke out publicly about his disagreement with the rest of the board on its decision to recommend the minister approve the Hibernia South development application. He says he doesn’t know why the other board members decided to exceed
St. John’s mayor Andy Wells.
their mandate and publicly critique the minister’s decision. “I think that is a question you will have to put to them,” says Wells. “They were really sooky about the decision made by the provincial government to turn down their Hibernia recommendations.” Did the board know the letter stepped outside their legislated mandate? “You better put that question to Ruelokke, the chairman,” he says. “No — because they are gutless. They won’t talk to the press. As far as I’m concerned, in my limited exposure to the board, they pretty well got contempt for the public’s right to know.” Wells says his relationship with the rest of the board is not good. “It’s like the Kremlin, that’s what it is like. They get together in the Kremlin and there is nothing made public except what we decide is available for public
Paul Daly/The Independent
consumption,” says Wells. “And if you go out as a member of the board and disagree with us, in matters that concern privilege then you are violating privilege — which is a load of crap.” Dunderdale wants to put the issue behind her. She says her department has had a “very positive and productive” meeting with the Hibernia Management Development Company, and the working relationship is good. “HMDC and the government have moved on.” Repeated attempts by The Independent to talk with Ruelokke, chair of the board, on that matter were unsuccessful. A spokesman directed The Independent to the board website, and provided The Independent with an e-mailed document, which he said could be attributed to the chair, on behalf of the board. ivan.morgan@theindependent.ca
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
INDEPENDENTBUSINESS • 15
Close the caplin fishery W
hen John Crosbie announced a moratorium on the northern cod fishery back in 1992, I wonder did he really believe the near-decimated stock could rebound in a couple of years? Had he announced a 15-year cod moratorium on that same historic day in July, he probably would have been the last of many species to be pulled out of Bay Bulls harbour. Why, after 15 years, hasn’t there been any significant growth in the northern cod stock? Scientists and marine biologists tell us that a codfish will reach the age of six or seven years before it can reproduce and that the life expectancy of a codfish is approximately 15 years. This tells me that there should be at least seven new generations of postmoratorium codfish somewhere on the Grand Banks breeding new life into the biomass. There are many opinions and theories floating around through various media outlets such as radio talk shows, TV documentaries, and newspaper articles. The most common being foreign overfishing, bottom trawling, over-populated seal herds, gillnets/ghost nets, and global warming/climate change/water temperature change. I personally feel the rebuilding of cod stocks is impeded by a combination of all the above plus one other important contributor — caplin. CROSBIE’S BIGGEST MISTAKE The biggest mistake Crosbie made during his tenure as minister of Fisheries and Oceans was the failure to announce a moratorium on the caplin fishery. Lets go back a few years and look at some of the statistics provided by DFO. In 1972 (earliest stats available on DFO website): • Total landings of cod in Newfoundland and Labrador were approximately 116,000 tonnes. • Total landings of caplin were approximately 4,600 tonnes. Jump ahead to 1990 (two years before the cod moratorium). • Total landings of cod in Newfoundland and Labrador were approximately 245,600 tonnes. • Total landings of caplin were 127,500 tonnes. Those landings, in comparison to 1972, represent an increase of 212 per cent for cod and an astounding 2,750 per cent increase in caplin landings. Those figures represent landings for the province only and they do not reflect the millions
GUEST COLUMN
Pius Coombs of pounds of caplin taken by foreign fleets. Think back to when cod was the fishery that defined Newfoundland and Labrador. Back to those days, when a fisherman spoke of a trap he meant a codtrap, not a caplin trap. Back before those big foreign factory ships were allowed into our waters to suck their bellies full of those little fish. Back to the days when caplin rolled on the beaches for weeks, rather than just a day or a few hours. Think back to when both the cod and caplin stocks were healthy and plentiful. To put things in perspective — a caplin fishery emerged and cod stocks declined. When the cod fishery closed, the caplin fishery continued. Now let’s really jump ahead. Today, almost 15 years later, there is still a cod moratorium in place, and a caplin fishery still continues. In fact, it has continued at an increasing rate over the past few years. Current landings in the province are approximately 800 per cent higher than they were back in the early 1970s. Today there’s plenty of pressure on government to increase the amount. One processing company, the Barry Group, is actually looking for 1.5 times the provincial quota of 34,000 tonnes, for just one of its processing operations here in the province. When questioned on CBC Radio about his request to DFO, company president Bill Barry justified his application by referring to the natural high mortality rate of the caplin species. They are going to die anyway, right? My message (for what it’s worth) to federal Fisheries Minister Loyola Hearn is simple: close the caplin fishery. The caplin fishery should never have existed. If you want any living species to flourish and grow, you cannot deprive it of its main source of food. This type of behavior to humans by humans is known as genocide, it is a very effective means for total annihilation. If you interfere or disrupt the food chain, the effects can be catastrophic to all dependent species. Pius Coombs writes from Witless Bay.
‘No point in being angry’ From page 1 was called in to survey the site of the sinking. “We were not only dealing with the fact we had just lost dear co-workers and friends, but we were also called on to help find out what happened,” he says. He remembers vividly the day the body of Wayne Miller — the only body to be recovered from his team — was found. His team had gone to shore for provisions at the time. They stayed on land for the memorial service, then it was straight back to work. Ruelokke’s diving crew also did the survey work for the Royal Commission called to investigate the sinking of the Ocean Ranger. “It was very important to us for more emotional reasons,” he says. “We knew the rig, we had worked on her, and it was very personal for us to help find out what happened.” The Royal Commission Report pointed to poor training, inadequate safety equipment, design flaws and 160-kilometre-an-hour winds as factors in the tragedy. The underwater work and recovery performed by Hydrospace Marine Services helped piece together the tragic events of that February night. Ruelokke says observ-
ing the rig on the bottom and seeing what happened was both painful and therapeutic — he knew the findings would help the offshore industry in its quest for answers and solutions. “What happened that night solidified my commitment to the oil and gas industry in this province,” he says. “The industry reacted to the Royal Commission exactly as it should have. They challenged the industry to do things better and they have.” Ruelokke stresses the disaster was caused by a series of unfortunate events. “Bad weather, a lack of training, poor decisions … there is just no one group or person that you could blame and there is no point in being angry,” he says. “We need to do what we can to make sure bad things don’t happen, but if they do, then people need to be trained and prepared to make sure the outcome is a positive one.” The families of the men lost are never far from Ruelokke’s mind, particularly as the dark anniversary approaches. “I want to tell you that my thoughts are with all those that did lose someone. We lost five, but there are (other) families out there affected and I want them to remember that I am personally committed to not having that happen again.”
16 • INDEPENDENTBUSINESS
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
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INDEPENDENTLIFE
FRIDAY THROUGH THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9-15, 2007 — PAGE 17
‘Kind of eerie’ Crashed U.S. bomber site remains intact 54 years later; Burgoynes Cove site still a little known memorial
By Devon Wells For The Independent
D
ick Ellsworth was 13 when the B36 warplane carrying his father crashed into a hill in Burgoynes Cove, near Clarenville, incinerating everyone on board. “I had gone out to deliver my newspapers,” Ellsworth, a retired pilot with TWA and the American air force, tells The Independent from his home in Maine. “I came back home and there were a whole bunch of people I hadn’t seen at the house before. I looked at my mother and I knew something was wrong, and she told me that the aircraft had gone down.” Ellsworth’s father, Brigadier General Richard Ellsworth of the 28th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, was heading home to South Dakota from a training exercise that took him to the Azores, when his plane went down. It was 1953 and the height of the Cold War. “They were supposed to be ‘bad guys.’ They were playing enemies so they could get under the radar and attack the United States without being spotted,” says Richard Stoker, a local aviation enthusiast. “It was an exercise, but an exercise that went dreadfully wrong.” Without their radar or radios turned on, heavy gales blew the crew drastically off course; as sleet and fog drowned all visibility, the massive B-36 struck a hillside and collapsed on itself. Residents in the area responded to the crash, but there were no survivors. “The saddest thing about it was they sent two B-29s, search and rescue aircraft, from Stephenville, and one them crashed into the bay by Stephenville with 11 men on board and they were never seen again,” says Stoker. “It just literally fell off the radar and disappeared — no anything.” Today, more than 50 years later, the crash site remains relatively untouched. “There’s bits and pieces scattered all over the place, even to the extent there’s still clothing there, jackets and all this stuff lying around,” says Stoker. “It’s a little incongruous — they’ve got a couple of picnic tables up there.” Shortly after the crash, the American military took out the bodies of the soldiers, the guns, and the ammunition. But, since the location is so remote and the climb up the hill so taxing, much of the wreckage has remained the same since the 1950s. The paint hasn’t worn, and visitors can still read the writing on the shreds of nylon that dot the scene. The B-36 bomber was one of the largest warplanes ever built. Its wings stretched 230 feet wide, longer than a hockey rink. Initially, the planes were built to bomb See “Newfoundland,” page 19
SUSAN RENDELL
Screed and coke Love is not altogether a delirium, yet it has many points in common therewith. —Thomas Carlyle
F
ebruary is Love Month, as those of us who either have been pushed or fallen out of love are only too aware. There’s no getting away from its totems: stuffed animals of the saccharin variety, bunnies hold-
The tail of the B-36 airplane that crashed near Burgoynes Cove in 1953 still stand at the site. Other wreckage, including jackets and nylon tarps, coat the area where 23 American soldiers died during a training exercise during the Cold War.
Crazy love As Valentine trinkets close in on all sides, writer Susan Rendell talks to psychologist Hassan Khalili about the workings of the heart ing diminutive I-love-you balloons, teddy bears with chocolate boxes in their truncated arms. And, reigning over all, the ubiquitous heart icon. The red blob o’ love originated in
Europe with Cro-Magnon hunters, who used it before the last Ice Age to indicate the seat of life — the pulsing heart. Despite its humble beginnings, it has since put in an appearance in every major
culture and religion as a symbol of love, both carnal and divine. (Although in Sweden the icon has been associated with defecation for a very long time, and serves as a sign for unisex toilets.
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Imagine: the Swedes have a penchant for scatological sarcasm — who knew?) So, love. Might as well face the music — and there’s lots of that, ranging from Leonard Cohen’s rip-your-heart-out-andstomp-on-it-with-steel-toed-boots Closing Time to The Carpenters’ Close to You, which made even the Muppets puke — or at least parody it. Or you can face the literature. I recently borrowed Margaret Atwood’s The Blind Assassin, believing it to be an upscale spy novel. But the assassin turned out to be Cupid, the guy with the See “We are,” page 18
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
18 • INDEPENDENTLIFE
GALLERYPROFILE SUSAN JAMIESON AND KATHY BROWNING Visual Artists
S
hift, currently hanging at the RCA Gallery in the LSPU Hall, pairs the work of two women from two different parts of Canada, equally captivated by the rocks and trees, water and ice of this province’s scenery. Susan Jamieson, a St. John’s native, has a long history of exploring rural areas where nature runs free. Even though she’s fighting off a winter cold, she still finds inspiration in the frigid landscape of the province she calls home. “I grew up with seven brothers and sisters and, whenever the opportunity (arose), Dad packed us all in the station wagon,” she says. “In the summertime, we’d spend a few weeks in a cabin.” Fellow artist Kathy Browning, on the other hand, hails from Thunder Bay, Ont. Still, the visual power of Newfoundland’s icebergs struck her. “I felt very much that the icebergs were like canvases on which the art could happen,” she says. “I felt very much that they were sculptures floating by requesting this artistic engagement.” The artists also skirted a balance with the different media they use in Shift. While Jamieson is a devoted painter, Browning has explored and taught drawing, sculpture, printmaking, and performance art. The work in Shift, however, showcases her foray into digital photography. Her portion of the exhibit, called Images on Icebergs, superimposes photos of rocks, trees, and water over the ice. “It’s almost like painting with digital photographs of sculptural forms,” she says. Browning’s approach is deliberate, as she self-financed expeditions to ice flows in order to take her photographs, along with aid from the City of St. John’s, the Newfoundland Labrador Arts Council, and Memorial University. Jamieson followed a more intuitive method, calling on the technique of automatism. “Normally, how I work is, I go out in the landscape and I sketch or start a work and come back to my studio at home and finish it,” says Jamieson. “Now, in this case, a lot of it is from the mind’s eye.” For the images in Shift, she usually began without any certain direction,
pulling from ideas in her unconscious: “(With automatism), when you start out, you don’t have the image in your mind, and the painting speaks back to you with the image.” Shift is just the latest show for the artists, who each have a long tradition of involvement in the community. Jamieson,
who served on the board of the Visual Artists of Newfoundland Labrador, has been a full-time artist for 20 years. Browning, who currently teaches at Laurentian University in Sudbury, Ont., formerly taught at Memorial University and has held gallery shows for more than 40 years.
With the format of Shift — the group exhibition, the subjects and the mixed media — Jamieson and Browning are trying to sort out a dialogue between themselves, their environment and their work. “I was able to develop my understanding by creating this body of work with digital photography, and understand my
relationship with nature,” says Browning. “Every time you work in a different media, you push yourself in different ways.” Shift is on exhibit at the Resource Centre for the Arts until Feb. 25. — Devon Wells
The Gallery is a regular feature in The Independent. For information, or to submit proposals, please call (709) 726-4639, or e-mail editorial@theindependent.ca
‘We are designed as human beings to fall in love’ From page 17 bow. And the blindfold. (And no, they didn’t live happily ever after; they died with more arrows in them than St. Stephen the Martyr.) Art? A Renaissance Salome with the head of John the Baptist on her shiny little tea tray sums up things on a lot of levels. So, love. A many splendoured thing or just a four-letter word? Always having to say you’re sorry or never having to say you’re sorry? The sweetest joy or the wildest woe? Yadda yadda yadda … One of the hallmarks of the century I will end up having spent most of my life in was the scientific explanation. Fairly certain love hadn’t made the periodic table, I wondered if it had found a niche in the medical books. I asked my sister, a doctor, for the medical take. She said love and religion are considered exempt from the usual delusions. Apparently they won’t be coming with straitjackets if you believe that a virgin had a child — as long as she’s the Virgin, not your next-door neighbour — or that your lover walks on water, even though it’s plain to everyone else he’s wearing hobbles fashioned from the desiccated hearts of former wives/girlfriends/family pets. Not content, I contacted Dr. Hassan Khalili, rumoured to be the best psychologist in St. John’s. If love isn’t a microbe or a brain malfunction, it’s certainly a painful state sometimes. (When I call to arrange an interview, Khalili tells me that besides being Love Month, February is also Psychology Month. Coincidence? I think not.) I meet with Khalili at his office. Lots
Dr. Hassan Khalili
of windows and light blue colours. Plants and pictures; token gifts from patients. (A painting of a mosque catches my eye, its minaret like the tail of a golden dragonfly.) “How are you?” he asks, taking my hand. I say fine (Khalili charges $110 an hour, standard for the profession), and begin asking him about his work — and love, actually. Why psychology? “I was always good at talking to people,” he
Paul Daly/The Independent
says. “In high school, I was appointed as peer counsellor.” That high school was in Qom, Iran, Khalili’s birthplace. Qom, he tells me, is “a highly spiritual place … the Shiite centre of the world, like a Vatican of Shiite.” After completing an undergraduate degree at the University of Tehran and two years of compulsory military service, Khalili left Iran in 1975 to study in the U.S.
Arriving in Newfoundland and Labrador in 1985 to work at the Waterford Hospital, he eventually became the facility’s head of psychology. Eleven years later, he decided to enter private practice. “The public system was not satisfying anymore. I couldn’t be effective because of the changes,” he says. “I am proud of my profession. To help others, I have to have that basic human right in me. I use spirit. I look at the
whole thing as finding harmony.” He gestures around his office, an environment obviously designed to induce peaceful feelings. I must admit, I’m feeling pretty relaxed (a relative statement). “I am not a very religious person; I am a spiritual person. Some people forget what spirituality is and stick with only the mechanical relation. I believe in God, and people’s relationship to humanity — all of that.” Respect for the other person’s viewpoint is essential to his work, Khalili says. Empathy, the thing he refers to as E.Q. (emotional intelligence), is paramount. “You not only hear the words, you hear where they are coming from.” So … love? Khalili smiles like one of 17th century painter Murillo’s dark cherubs. “I believe that we are designed as human beings to fall in love. I don’t think we are designed to stay in it.” What? Heresy! He laughs; amiable ripples. “In order to go from falling in love to making a mature love,” he says, “you have to do something to nurture that love.” According to Khalili, love often begins as “need love.” Then it becomes love for a particular person, and “need love collapses.” People who remain in a state of need love are damaged or undeveloped. For a healthy person, “love is something you want to do, not a necessity. Next to love is the need for approval. A lot of people mix up these things. People who do not love themselves.” But, I say, don’t you believe in terrible, passionate — demon — love that comes out of nowhere, messing up the most stable person? See “Relationships,” page 20
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
INDEPENDENTLIFE • 19
Irony of the cruelest kind R
ick Mercer’s response to my column on the Canadian media’s NOREEN approach to our military mission GOLFMAN in Afghanistan has unleashed a torrent of hateful e-mails, letters to the editor and Standing Room Only abusive phone calls such as I have never seen or heard before. Much of the abuse has been directed at ers, and Mercer, that I did not have his me personally. I have been called, to cite friend, Colonel Paul Franklin (whose piconly a few of the e-mailed epithets that ture Mercer submitted along with his letare printable, “a disgusting liberal,” “a ter to The Independent) in mind when I bigoted bitch,” a “spoiled yuppie,” or just wrote those words. Nor would I or anyone with half a heart “another elitist bitch of a woman.” Several of the e-mails have “May You be so callous as to write an essay quesRot in Hell” and much worse for their tioning the suffering of any individual subject line. Many of the writers have soldier. My issue is not with the particuattacked not only me as a person but insti- lar men and women fighting overseas. It is clear that my tutions and values that unfortunate phrase and they take me to repremy comments about sent — universities, It is worth noting the media and the the liberal arts and that until (Rick Mercer’s) Christmas entertainhumanities, the tour in Canadian left, women. letter appeared in these ment Afghanistan have Although Mercer pages I had received touched a nerve in surely did not intend to nothing but support Mercer (and provided let these dogs out, I The Independent with hope he would accept for asking for more an opportunity to sensome responsibility for balanced media sationalize the matter). what has emerged out This happens, and we of the depths of cybercoverage of the war. have all had our nerves space and the touched often enough Canadian military psyto understand how it happens. che. It is another thing altogether to let that I take that responsibility, too, although it is worth noting that until his letter nerve do the writing in response, to take a appeared in these pages I had received general argument for a specific and pernothing but support for asking for more sonal one (which it wasn’t), to focus on a balanced media coverage of the war. The few words and phrases and avoid the emotional tone and personalized focus of main points of the article altogether, and Mercer’s response immediately generat- then to reply in a condescending, ad hominem rant. ed an entirely different kind of reaction. Rick is entitled to the emotions he so Mercer’s account of what I wrote is inaccurate and incomplete. He responded powerfully expressed in his letter, and I not to what I wrote but to a few phrases in respect them, but I really wish he had my article that distressed him. Further- been more careful about how he more, the people he has inspired to write expressed them. Rants may work on teleand call me have, generally, not even read vision but they are not appropriate for my original piece and have taken his serious discourse about issues of public policy and ethics. The tone of his reading as their point of reference. One of the key skills that people like response, circulated as it ended up being me who teach the humanities at Canadian on military websites in Canada and even universities seek to impart to our students in Europe, has allowed this whole matter is the ability to read carefully and sum- to take on a dark, disturbing life of its marize what they have read clearly and own. Somewhere in the depths of cyberaccurately. This was not done with my article. Mercer reacted angrily to a few of space, readers of Mercer’s piece are its words, some of which he has misinter- attacking me personally, as well as preted, and has focused on the parts that women, women’s studies programs, and concern him personally rather than trying universities in general. Many have not to take these within the context of the even read my column in the first place broader argument in which they were pre- and are relying on Mercer’s partial and personalized reading of it. sented. Others, who have actually read my My essay had two main, and closely related, points: i) a questioning of the piece and found it “disgusting,” “shameCanadian military presence in ful,” and “yet another example of what is Afghanistan and ii) a comment about the wrong with universities today” clearly consistent reluctance by our national did so after reading Mercer’s abstract and media to provide a more nuanced, have ended up coming to it with their informed and extended examination of eyes half-closed, minds made up, prejuthe history and politics of the country in dices hardened, defences secured. I know this because of the consistent which we are fighting or of the way in which a brief peacekeeping mission has tone and the sizable amount of e-mail I been extended and reshaped into a dan- continue to receive, much of it properly belonging to the category of hate-mail, gerous peacemaking venture. Following from the second point about and the invasive and offensive phone the media was a questioning of the role calls that have compelled me to be conthat celebrities, particularly a New- cerned about my own security. It is foundlander like Mercer, have taken up in painfully ironic that many of those emails spitting venomous invective at me their role as entertainers of the troops. In his now widely circulated response, claim to be doing so in the name of the Mercer lectured me in condescending freedom and the women’s rights our language for having used the unfortunate troops are fighting for in Afghanistan. As humanities students know, this is phrase “poor sod” to refer to the wounded soldiers covered by the media in the irony of the cruelest kind. It is noteworthy last few weeks of December. If I could that Col. Franklin, with whom I have had swallow those seven little letters I cer- a gracious e-mail exchange since this all tainly would, for they have become both spun out of control, has kindly advised a huge distraction and a sad occasion for me not “to let the bad words get (me) some of the most vile e-mails and menac- down.” Last week historian Margaret ing phone calls anyone should ever have MacMillan spoke to an overflow crowd at to read or hear. I take full responsibility for those two Memorial about the importance of studywords, as any author must, and I am now ing and knowing history in order make sense of an increasingly troubled world. deeply sorry I wrote them. But why would any fair and dispas- Like her, and even more so because of the sionate reader think that I, or any writer, week’s disturbing evidence, I have faith would deliberately set about offending a in the power of knowledge as a way wounded soldier? I can assure my read- through, if not out, of such darkness.
Above: A memorial to the B-36 crew at the crash site near Clarenville. Below: Debris from the accident photographed in 2003.
‘Newfoundland is carpeted with aircraft’ From page 17 Germany during the Second World War, but the war ended before their completion. Afterwards, they were mostly used to take spy photos during the Cold War. “It was known as the Magnesium Overcast, it was so huge,” says Stoker. The crash in Burgoynes Cove is not the only B-36 to go down in Newfoundland and Labrador. A site near Goose Bay also hosts the rubble of a B-36 that crashed while landing, although many of the crew survived. Stoker isn’t surprised: “Literally, Newfoundland is carpeted with aircraft. They say you Brigadier General can’t run a metal detector along the bottom of Richard Ellsworth
Gander Lake, it would explode there’s so many planes down there.” By the end of the ’60s, the air force phased out the B-36s in favour of the smaller B-52 bombers. Today, only a single B-36 remains in one piece, stationed at Castle Air Force Base in California. For Ellsworth, who grew up around the warplanes on the air force base in South Dakota, the Burgoynes Cove site is an interesting piece of Cold War history, even as it calls up emotions about his father. “It’s kind of eerie after 50 years to see all that stuff there still pretty much intact,” he says. “The wreckage is still strewn all about.”
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FEBRUARY 9, 2007
20 • INDEPENDENTLIFE
Now playing: great films Unfortunately, films like this one aren’t supported by expensive advertising campaigns, and zoom though cineplexes like the proverbial dose of salts. If you’re handy enough to where this is playing on a big screen, catch it right away, because you’re sure to regret missing the opportunity. This one’s made for “the movies.”
TIM CONWAY Film Score Notes on a Scandal
92 min. Starring Judi Dench, Cate Blanchett, and Bill Nighy
1/2 (out of four) Babel 142 min. Starring Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett, and Gael Garcia Bernal 1/2 (out of four)
D
uring the day, Barbara Covett serves as the head of the history department at a school in Islington. Under no illusion that she’s changing the world or moulding young minds, she seems satisfied if she can get through the day without having to break up a fight between students. Her evenings are quiet affairs, shared with her cat, and her only confidante, her diary. Sheba Hart hasn’t had time to pursue her work as an artist for nearly a decade. The demands of raising a daughter were complicated with the arrival of a son, one with special needs, and it’s only lately she finds herself able to get out of the house for extended periods. Rather than resume her artwork right away, she decides to ease herself back into it by accepting a job as art teacher at the school in Islington. While this is supposed to be a diversion for her, Sheba soon begins to wonder if she’s cut out for the job. At a critical point, however, stalwart Barbara comes to her rescue, offering the kind of friendship and guidance the novice educator needs while learning the ropes. Neither of them, though, is fully aware of the other’s needs at the beginning, nor where this relationship will eventually lead. Zoe Heller’s novel What Was She Thinking: Notes on a Scandal, gets the big screen treatment from Patrick Marber, the writer of Closer. Directed by Richard Eyre (Iris), the film once again provides Judi Dench with a plum role that sees her nominated for her fourth Oscar in less than 10 years for a leading role. On a more level playing field, she’d be running neck and neck with Helen Mirren this year, and her going home empty handed will probably be something Academy voters will try and make up for next year if the opportunity presents itself. While Dench’s portrayal of Barbara Covett is enough reason to dash to the cinema right away, Cate Blanchett’s performance, nominated for an Oscar in the
Doug Jones in Pan’s Labyrinth.
Supporting Actress category, is equally electric, which comes as no surprise to anyone who’s ever seen her in anything. One of the most reliable actresses in the industry, one can always count on her to be instrumental in elevating even the most banal of motion pictures. The writing is sharp, witty and often dark (no news to fans of Closer), and the director keeps the pace rather lively. Moments of humour are timed just right, while suspense and drama play out perfectly. There’s isn’t a dull moment throughout the picture, and our connection with the characters and action remains more than unbroken, as we are completely entranced from beginning to end. As entertaining as one might find Barbara Covett’s narration through the film, its benefit to the whole story is questionable. Both actresses tell us enough through their mannerisms that the voiceover takes some of the work out the experience, and it would probably be a better film if the information divulged in the narration were disseminated through the actors. This is perhaps the only flaw of Notes on a Scandal, and one that speaks more to preference than anything else. Despite
its few accolades, this is sure to be discussed in the future as an underappreciated and overlooked motion picture. If you make the chance to catch it while you can, you’re sure to agree. Pan’s Labyrinth 112 min. Starring Ivana Baquero, Sergi Lopez, Maribel Verdu, and Ariadna Gil 1/2 (out of four)
Young Ofelia and her ailing, pregnant mother Carmen are being chauffeured to an isolated, abandoned sawmill in the forest. The year is 1944, and the site has become a command post from which the Spanish army hopes to suppress rebel activity. It is here that the commander, Captain Vidal, Ofelia’s new stepfather, awaits them. Along the way, Carmen examines the books that Ofelia has taken along, and chides her daughter about being too old for fairy tales. In hindsight, this is a humorous beginning to what is essentially a fairy tale for adults. While nominated for Oscars in the categories of writing, foreign language film, cinematography and a number of craftrelated fields, Pan’s Labyrinth offers superlative work in every aspect of its
production, especially the performances of the cast. While at the mill, Ofelia discovers that she might bear the soul of Princess Moanna from a long lost underground kingdom. A nearby labyrinth serves as a portal to this underworld, but her access to it can only be granted if she performs three tasks out of The Book of Crossroads before the next full moon. Guiding her through the process is a faun, who provides her with information, instructions, and the occasional magical item to help her in her quests. We’re never quite sure whether this is reality or imagination — but then again, the events that play out in what is definitely Ofelia’s real world seem no less surreal. The brutality with which Capt. Vidal executes his orders is no less difficult to imagine. Written and directed by Guillermo del Toro, Pan’s Labyrinth is probably the year’s best combination of imaginative writing and filmmaking craftsmanship. By juxtaposing fascist Spain against Ofelia’s fantastic world, and playing this out with a stunning visual style, del Toro has created with words and pictures, what can arguably be described as a modern masterpiece.
POET’S CORNER the rich eat it cold cold toast Like an embarrassing radio documentary in a stranger’s car, butter congealing in the winter sun, or raisins on the way to work. Off-sides on a diner-plate breakfast, covered in ketchup the navy call gravy, absorbing the steam off scrambled eggs. Flax seeds and burnt crust flakes swept to the cutting board’s edge. By Nadya Bell
A win for Best Drama at the Golden Globes has seen Babel take a second, brisk run through theatres, yet it’s bound to end up where the filmmaker’s previous effort 21 Grams did, with numerous people catching it on home video and wishing they’d seen it at the cinema. Told in a non-linear style, the film juggles four storylines in which the characters are all connected to one incident, a rifle given as a gift to a guide. While this link is sometimes tenuous, some would say forced, the fact remains that this a small world in which communication is vital. Yet we rarely take the trouble to reach beyond language and cultural differences to really connect with one another. The stories are compelling, and brought to life well enough that the manner in which they are told, out of chronological sequence, is unnecessary, and perhaps troublesome for some viewers. It adds a stylistic element to the film, but everything else about the production is superb, and regardless of the sequence in which events play out, we’re totally captivated. Beyond the commendable technical craft of the picture, the performances are all phenomenal. The top-billed name actors share the screen with talented performers who more than hold their own, but carve out their own places in the presentation, and we anticipate the opportunity to catch them again in future projects. Despite its length, Babel involves us to the extent that we barely notice the passage of time; it feels like a much shorter picture. Its impression, however, is a lingering one, and we’re sure to be ruminating on it, and strongly recommending it, days after we’ve left the theatre. Tim Conway operates Capitol Video in Rawlin’s Cross, St. John’s
Relationships are ‘wobbly’ From page 18 “That’s what falling in love is,” Khalili says, “so you’ve got to be careful. It’s twitterpation.” Twitterpation? What Owl warns Bambi and his friend Thumper the rabbit about in the Disney classic, he explains — that head-over-heels thing. “Falling in love is so beautiful. If someone can stay in it, it is the most gorgeous feeling on earth. But do we have the capacity to stay in it? I don’t know.” What if do you fall in love and stay there: is that insanity? “No, that’s luck!” he says; the ripples spread again. “Love is love — some people fall in love with God or even their profession. Falling in love with the opposite sex is more dangerous. There are always conditions.” To help his patients deal with heartbreak, Khalili teaches them to reprogram the subconscious, where negative thoughts are born. “You can choose what you want to think, how you want to feel,” he says. Khalili says men and women have different psychologies. “They don’t understand each other. But the female knows more male psychology than the male knows female psychology.” Relationship counselling works 50 per cent of the time, he says. “I look at marriage counselling like the liquid Drano — I give it to them and they do it themselves. I give them guidance: ‘look at it this way, look at it that way.’” I ask him how culture affects relationships — what changes has he seen over the years? “There are more demands on people now. As a result of the influence of American culture and the Internet, people feel entitled to more. Society is pushing them to have more, buy more. People are stretched to the max.”’ Relationships are “wobbly; people have broken or half-cooked relationships. We have gone too far to the right: eventually we have to come back to the middle.” Feminism is another fracturing factor. “The feminist movement has done a lot of good for us, in terms of shifting society, but at the same time many of the males haven’t adjusted to it. Middleaged men, especially. They have to adjust. Not only to feminism, but to other things, such as gay rights.” Before I leave, we discuss post-revolutionary Iran. Khalili says 65 per cent of university students in Iran are women. “A lot of businesses are run by women. Women are working in places they didn’t work before.” He predicts that in five years there will be a vacuum in the leadership of the country, and women will step into it. “Women are better managers.” When I step out of his office, I find it hard to manage my footing, much less a country. A squall has blown up, nearly obliterating the parking lot: what’s that dark shape on the perimeter? A beast of prey with a beating heart in its mouth …. I decide it’s Bambi. Maybe there ain’t no cure for love, but Dr. Khalili has taught me that there is a cure for the romantic imagination. Not that I always want one. srendell@nf.sympatico.ca
INDEPENDENTSTYLE
FRIDAY THROUGH THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9-15, 2007 — PAGE 21
A night away Feeling the winter blues? Stuck hibernating at home? Spending too much time on the couch waiting for winter to pass? Maybe it’s time to check in for some cabin fever of a different kind By Stephanie Porter The Independent
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ebruary can be the longest month. With nothing but cold hands, soggy feet, and a lot more wintry wind to look forward to, it’s easy to succumb to the temptation to curl up on the couch and just wait it out. Those winter blahs can wreak havoc on eating habits, energy levels, and emotional health — not to mention relationships of all sorts. It might be time to break the cycle and get away. Pack a little suitcase, grab your partner, and head down the street to a cozy bed and breakfast for a romantic night or two in a new bed. Or a short road trip out of town to a quiet cabin in the woods. Fireplace, Jacuzzi, no distractions. Being the official off-season for many places, accommodations are often a little cheaper these days — and definitely a lot less crowded. Jill Colbert of Celtic Rendezvous Cottages in Bauline East, just half an hour from St. John’s, says it’s the time of year for local traffic. “Most definitely, couples,” she says. “That’s pretty much all we get this time of the year. There’s a few workshops and retreats on the weekdays, but on the weekends, that’s what it is, a two-night getaway for someone looking to unwind.” Celtic Rendezvous, perched on a hill overlooking Tors Cove, boasts a number of suites and cottages, including the popular luxury cottage. All are “quite cozy and well equipped and you’re just tucked away with nothing but yourself and the ocean and the islands.” For those looking for something else to do in the day, Colbert says conditions are good for snowshoeing, tobogganing, and cross-country skiing — and the East Coast Trail is on her doorstep. Colbert also mentions the large chalet — perfect if the kids are coming along. “There’s lots of space,” she says, laughing, “you might not even know they’re there.” A little further out of St. John’s, Kilmory Resort in Swift Current offers pine lodge chalets of various sizes. Just 30 minutes from Clarenville, front-desk worker Coreena Crocker says the resort does welcomes downhill skiers this time of year. There are also snowshoes available to rent for outdoor enthusiasts. “We get mostly skiers and people looking for winter activities, but then we do get the couple romantics that just want to stay inside and relax,” she says. “And we leave them to it … “This time of year, it’s nice and quiet and peaceful — no distractions, no telephones, it’s a really nice place to get away, sit by the fireplace, soak in the Jacuzzi …” St. John’s is filled with surprising, cozy and luxurious inns and B&Bs. The Spa at the Monastery has plenty of suites and treatment packages for couples — a getaway for body and soul. Winterholme Heritage Inn also provides lovingly cared for and upscale accommodations — and brand new spa services. The 100-year-old home is tucked behind a row of trees near Bannerman Park, right in the city centre. “The house is just so wonderful and very unique in that sense,” says manager Lisa Cook. All rooms have big comfy beds, and most boast fireplaces and Jacuzzis as well. “The off-season, October to May, would be corporate travelers and then it’s really a lot of in-town and slightly out-of-town customers,” she says. “We get quite a few people just getting out for the weekend, just out of the house … just something to do.” Does she have many Mr. and Mrs. Smiths book in for the night? Cook laughs. “I like to hope not, but …” stephanie.porter@theindependent.ca The Winterholme Heritage Inn in St. John’s.
Paul Daly/The Independent
Culinary MacGyver
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he screen flashes pictures of past incidents in rapid succession: a hand pulling wires, a timer ticking down and then an explosion — all to a pop-synth-horn soundtrack. And so the popular television show began. We’ve made his name a verb. The New Millennium Dictionary of English says it the best: “to get out of a tight situation with a tool or item used in an innovative manner; to make something astounding using a simple tool or simple items.” Cooking can be like that, and this week I had the situation where I could be that person. I could be the culinary MacGyver. Sitting around the table having lunch, a colleague was lamenting that his girlfriend neglected to give him a dressing for his salad as he left for work. So I said there are always enough ingredients to make vinaigrette — even in an office kitchen. He said
NICHOLAS GARDNER Off the Eating Path there was no way I could do it. Since I’m a sucker for a challenge … Into the kitchen we all went. It seemed like this was to be some sort of demonstration class as well. In the fridge I found some useful items: whole butter, a leftover from a breakfast function and meeting; lemon juice for tea in the afternoon; some white wine (strange, I know, but we’ve had receptions and wine is always needed); salt and pepper packets from fast-food joints; and sugar, a necessity for coffee. With equipment in hand I set about to make this work. Finding a small-lidded container containing miscellaneous tea bags I was ready for action.
The butter was cut with my handy pocketknife and melted in the microwave — not a good step, but necessary as the butter was cold. I added a quick splash of the white wine and lemon juice and shook it all together. The cold liquids made the butter seize a bit but that was fine. I threw in half the salt and half the pepper, and a good pinch of sugar. After a quick taste, it was far too bitter with the concentrated lemon juice from the bottle so I added another good pinch of sugar to balance out the flavours. To the amazement of my colleagues I produced a salad dressing with only the tools and foods on hand. I McGyvered it. Like the television character played by … pop quiz anyone? Richard Dean Anderson. McGyver took everyday objects — a gum wrapper, a can of gas and box of matches — and was able to fend off an army of bad guys. It is much the same in the kitchen.
The average house can boost the flavour of many things. Knowing what an ingredient can do can increase your cooking vocabulary. Here are some to put you in the right direction. Jams: blackberry or cherry is best. They’re fantastic for that beef-based sauce or pan jus as a thickener. Fresh lemons: one lemon and half a cup of olive oil, with some flavouring agents and a spoonful of honey is a fast vinaigrette. Use the zest as well to double the flavour intensity. Mustard: since it comes in all varieties, mustard is perfect for making a crust stick to roasted meats like glue. The lecithin found in the mustard seeds acts as a natural binder, which helps the emulsification process in everything from vinaigrettes to a quick sauce. Bread: sliced, it’s pretty tasty on its own. Turned into crumbs, it can bind, thicken and lighten everything from soups to meatloaf. Cubed and toasted
it’s croutons for a salad or a soup garnish. We only have a little fridge in the office kitchen, but I have seen the possibilities to create out of seemingly nothing. Cooking can take all forms. For me it was to engineer a salad dressing with nothing but what could be found around the office, just like MacGyver. Who knows? Maybe next time I’ll make crêpes on the hot photocopier rollers or, better yet, turn the coffee pot into a spouting chocolate fondue. Food can be made anywhere. Creativity and a little knowledge combined with a little bit of luck and you too can be a kitchen MacGyver. Now where did I put my pocketknife? Nicholas Gardner is a freelance writer and erstwhile chef living in St. John’s. nicholas.gardner@gmail.com
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
22 • INDEPENDENTLIFE
Why I loathe Oscar
The Toronto Star’s movie critic on Oscar’s many shortcomings By Geoff Pevere Torstar wire service
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ould it be unseemly of me to use this space to speak out – briefly and politely I promise – on behalf of those of us who do not give a rodent’s rear end for the Oscars? I should be more specific. By “us,” I do not mean people who care neither about movies nor about the Oscars. The constituency I refer to – and modestly presume to represent – is even more specialized than that. I mean those of us who love movies but consider the annual awards ceremony to be about as pertinent to the object of our love as a line of credit is to a spawning carp. Those are my people. It’s a difficult time of year for us. Every time we open the paper, turn on the television, log on to the Internet or wait in line to pay for our groceries we are confronted by the frankly flabbergasting suggestion that this impending chowdown of inconsequential mass media junk is a) important, b) of interest to every single individual on the planet living or dead, and c) has anything whatsoever to do with the quality of movies. It is, let me say in no uncertain terms, none of the above. What it is is the following: an almost stupefyingly dull TV event. A nuclear-strength hype detonation. A mass distraction. The Super Bowl with better cleavage. An excuse to
drink, eat and trade catty remarks late on a work night. Easier to understand than Iraq. The best thing to happen to Hilary Swank. The worst thing to happen to Martin Scorsese. A list-maker’s wet dream. A cosmetic surgeon’s bonanza. A glimpse into the vast and terrifying abyss of mass-mediated existence. A reason to cheer on global warming. There are also things I don’t like about the Oscars, but I’m trying to keep matters upbeat. The main thing is, they’ve got nothing to do with standards of good moviemaking. And I mean nothing, as in what’s left when you take zero from zero, multiply it to infinity and divide it the number of times Alfred Hitchcock, Howard Hawks, Ingmar Bergman or Akira Kurosawa won for Best Director. (Which was zip, by the way.) If they did have anything to do with the quality of movies, the following would necessarily follow: It would not be possible that the hysterically cloying Little Miss Sunshine would be nominated for Best Picture and Children of Men would not. It would not be possible that Chicago could be mentioned in the same breath with “Best Picture.” It would not be possible that the great Barbara Stanwyck would have died with no Oscars on her shelf and Ms. Swank, who will not presumably die for some time yet, should already have two.
It would not be possible that Ron Howard would be more esteemed than Orson Welles. It would not be possible that, when the searing Goodfellas lost to the allbut-unwatchable Dances With Wolves, Mr. Scorsese should be told that sorry, but you’re just not as visionary an artist as Kevin Costner. And it would not be possible for Will Smith to commit as heinous an act of sentimental terrorism as The Pursuit of Happyness — holding his own son hostage on-screen in the process — and actually be rewarded and not jailed for it. I wouldn’t even mention any of this if it weren’t for the fact that I feel a huge responsibility — as a minor public figure representing a minority opinion in as great an organ of free speech as this — to speak up however meekly against the roaring gales of hot air that will be blowing so mercilessly through our lives for the next several weeks. Soon our voices will be drowned out by the tumult entirely, and our objections crushed like bits of sugarless gum wrapper beneath the shoes of infotainment journalists herded behind velvet ropes along the red carpet. I’d like to thank you for your time. And my Grade 10 typing teacher for the most valuable skill I ever learned. But mostly, I’d like to thank my mother, who always encouraged me to speak up.
Actress Hilary Swank poses with her Oscar in 2005, which she won as Best Actress in the film Million Dollar Baby. Robert Galbraith/Reuters
TASTE In new take on classics, muffins are fab By Susan Sampson Torstar wire service
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ans of old-fashioned favourites will appreciate Lost Recipes: Meals to Share With Friends and Family by Marion Cunningham. Here’s home cooking at its best: tasty, easy to make, fast but not boring. Mind you, these recipes aren’t really “lost” or forgotten. They are classics. You can’t go wrong with satisfying soups like Chicken and Dumpling, substantial salads like the Brown Derby Cobb, and nostalgic baked goods like Monkey Bread. Cunningham is best known as the author of The Fannie Farmer Cookbook. She was once an assistant to James Beard. A Californian born way back in 1922, Cunningham collected, cooked and tweaked a lot of recipes in her time. That experience gave her an edge in the nostalgia race. Of course, Lost Recipes is very regional American, but tasty enough for us northerners to appreciate. The 240page cookbook was published by Knopf in 2003. These muffins are especially fab, thanks to the fresh ginger root that Cunningham used to transform the traditional recipe. The result is tender and distinctive. Think of these as muffin/cupcake hybrids. You can eat them for breakfast, or frost and decorate them for a party. GINGER MUFFINS Adapted from Lost Recipes. • 2 oz (60 g) knob ginger, peeled, finely chopped (about 1/3 cup) • 3/4 cup granulated sugar • 2 tbsp finely grated lemon zest • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 3/4 tsp baking soda • 1/2 tsp salt • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature • 2 large eggs • 1 cup buttermilk Place large paper liners in 12 muffin cups. Spray liners lightly with cooking spray. Put ginger and 1/4 cup sugar in small pan. Cook over medium heat, shaking pan occasionally but not stirring, until sugar melts and boils vigorously, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat. When lukewarm, stir in zest. In medium bowl, stir together flour, baking soda and salt. In deep mixing bowl, beat butter and remaining 1/2 cup sugar with electric mixer on medium power until fluffy, about one minute. Add eggs and beat until well blended, about two minutes. Add buttermilk and beat until blended, about 30 seconds. Using wooden spoon, stir in flour mixture just until moistened. Stir in ginger mixture just until blended. Scoop batter into prepared muffin cups. (Each should be about three-quarters full.) Bake in preheated 375 F oven 18 to 20 minutes, until tops are golden brown and tester comes out clean. Makes 12.
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
INDEPENDENTLIFE • 23
Popular $10 wines duke it out Nicholas Gardner For The Independent
“T
hese bottles are walking off the shelves. Take this one and see what you think.” Those were the famous last words before my father thrust a wine bottle into my hands. He was eager, as always, to share his knowledge of the new hottest wines in the city. The name on the bottle is a mouthful, and the taste — well, we’ll get to that in a minute. MezzoMondo Negroamaro Rosso Salento 2005 costs a moderate $10.56 (NLC) — but what’s so special about the wine? The Negroamaro grape comes from the bottom end of Italy. If you think of Italy as a boot, then the Negroamaro would be found growing in the heel. More specifically, it’s found northwest of the famous growing region of Barbaresco. This region is heavily peppered with calcium and lime deposits producing tight grape clusters and deep wine
colours. The wine is, for the most part, rustic, tannic and slightly bitter. While this grape varietal lends itself to pure 100 per cent offerings, it is most often used as a blending grape in numerous Italian wines, the most popular being Sangiovese and Montepulciano, bringing that dark earthy note. This Rosso Salento is pretty good. Its deep, dark red colour is like blackberries and the nose, while hinting of its youth, points to red berries like currants and a strange overtone of what can only be described as boiled cabbage. While the nose lets you down, the flavour is good, with strong tannins in the beginning and running immediately to a short finish. A little disappointing for me, but then again, it was a gift. The wine does well with fatty foods. Strong cheeses work in harmony alongside the strong flavours and ultimately it makes the wine longer and more enjoyable. In another corner sits the Faranese Sangiovese (NLC $10.96), which has been around a bit longer and selling well for quite a while.
It’s one of the easy “go to” wines in the city — moderate price and heavy on the flavour. In comparison, and maybe because I’ve had more of it, the Faranese is superior. Big deep fruits and a slightly acetone nose is one thing, but it’s backed up by a peppery goodness of flavour and the dark tannic and heavy structure that makes a strong Italian wine. It’s also a fine deal as a wine suitable for everything from red sauce pastas to a grilled steak. The flavours stay strong, and that’s what makes it good. For me it is no contest, as it becomes the middleweight rookie against the hardened pro. Sure the Rosso is the new hotness but it can’t stand up against a product that has better legs in the glass and gives more flavour. However, I’d like to buy a case of the Rosso Salento and stick it away for a bit. I think that when it gets older and has a bit of time under its belt it could be a lot better and who knows, it could even turn out to be a contender in this battle of middleweights. nicholas.gardner@gmail.com
Blame your parents Pam Pardy Ghent says her father should have given her a proper hiding when he had the chance the bottom and nice on the front. I got ’em in Marystown, and surely there are other pairs like them around here someplace. The first laundryMonday after Valentine’s Day I will be looking. I also count drawers. I admit I get to worrying when there are only six pairs hung out to dry after all week. Perhaps they are still wearing their special Sunday pair as they pin out their wares. Who knows? Bloomers aren’t the only things that concern me. I’m also a chronic sock worrier. The ones I see hung in rows look nothing like the ones my family wears. The heels of our white socks have all turned a colour that cannot be classified as any shade of white, and most have cute little peepholes in the toes. Just like the bloomers I see swinging, every pair of socks around here on lines that aren’t mine are nothing short of pristine. Perhaps if I had been disciplined a little more as a child I would be, well, a little more disciplined. Maybe if I had been spanked “properly,” I too would have laundry that was nice enough to display to my neighbours instead of having the only clothesline in town that sways sad, empty and unused all year. Dad, my slovenly ways have been declared your fault. You should have whacked me one when you had the chance. Oh, and by the way, Happy Birthday.
PAM PARDY GHENT
Seven-day talk
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y dad had a birthday this week. Hard to believe my very first Valentine is now 63 years old. I have a lot of memories of my father — he and I spent most of our time together. Some memories are sweet, most are funny, and all highlight what a softy he was beneath his most handsome manly exterior. I was six years old the one and only time my father spanked me. My mother went shopping and he took my older sister and I to my cousin’s for a visit. Often, when more than two play together, someone gets left out. That day the leftover kid was me. My cousin had Smarties and I was not offered any. I brooded on the floor, taking my frustrations out on a toy wooden cobbler’s bench — hammering the coloured pegs down, then flicking it over to do the same on the other side with the hard wooden hammer. I didn’t plan what happened next, at least, not that I remember. The other two kids were jumping on the bed, and my cousin fell. She was upside down, her head just above mine, when I swung with all I had. Whack! The bench smashed the top of her head and she crumpled at my feet. When she regained her six-year-old senses, she placed her hands to her scalp, put them to her face, then reached her fingers towards me to inspect. “Is that blood or Smarties?” she whispered. My sister poked her nose out over the bed and adjusted her specs. Before I could answer, she announced, “It’s not Smarties.” My cousin wailed, and all came running. My father stood there in shock, my uncle in rage. If my father didn’t spank me, he would, my uncle declared. My cousin’s head was inspected. She would live. Dad took me into the bathroom, closed the door, sat on the fuzzy toilet seat cover and looked terrified. I sat on the side of the tub and, swinging my legs side to side, waited for my “spanking.” “This is going to hurt me more than you,” my father said. He bent me over his knee and I felt a little swat on my behind. I looked up at my father. He had chickened out. “You’re supposed to cry,” he whis-
pered to me. So I did. Loudly. As my father walked out, wiping his teary eyes, my cousin hugged me — her wound was nothing serious — and all was forgiven. I strutted back into the bedroom a hero. My sister, older by almost three years, had always experienced things before me and I had finally one-upped her by being the first — and I believe the only one — in our family to be spanked. My mother says I’ve been a brat ever since, and others would agree. Faking a paddling does that to a gal. BLOOMERS BLOWING I get a kick out of laundry days in my outport — it’s the only chance I get to look at my neighbours’ underpants. I use the dryer myself, but my panties just never look as fresh as those I see flapping in the wind all year long. I put mine on the line once — you know, to fit in — and my mother made me take them down. They didn’t look good enough, she said. I was crushed.
Kinda. I am convinced that “the locals” buy undergarments they never actually use, but just stick on the line each Monday. The ones they do wear are washed and hung around the woodstove, hidden from prying eyes like mine. If it is the “real deal” flappin’ in our faces, then why are there never any other coloured step-ins out on display? Does no one wear red these days? Perhaps the racy-coloured ones are too raunchy to make it to the clothesline on a laundry Monday morning, so close to the holy Sabbath. My neighbour had clothes stolen off her line once, and while I didn’t inquire, perhaps it was her good red drawers that got lifted and that’s why no one sticks that kind of stuff out for public viewing. And where are the “special” pairs? You know the ones I mean — the saucy ones. I have ones that say naughty on
Pam Pardy Ghent lives in Harbour Mille, on the Burin Peninsula.
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
24 • INDEPENDENTLIFE
Mixing fashion with social responsibility NEW YORK By Bernadette Morra Torstar wire service
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ith 221 shows on the official calendar here at MercedesBenz Fashion Week, it’s easy to feel you are working against any efforts to improve the Earth. So a tiny mention of a fashion initiative in support of Al Gore’s The Climate Project quickly became a must-see. Down in Chelsea at the Industria Superstudio building, where many of fashion’s most glamorous ad campaigns are photographed, a tiny ecofriendly trade show called Limited Edition New York had taken over the mezzanine. Designer brands such as Missoni, Loewe, Costume National and Diane Von Furstenberg each had little booths where they were offering limited-edition pieces to buyers and the media. Some items were eco-friendly, some weren’t quite. But once the clothes, purses, pillows and lipsticks hit the
stores in late summer, a portion of the proceeds from sales will go to The Climate Project. “In France, we do a lot for AIDS and children in Africa. I wanted to do something for the environment,” says Mariel Gamboa, who organized the event. Gamboa had built, and then sold, the successful Paris trade show Tranoi, and wanted her next venture to have more meaning. “I didn’t want to do just another trade show and I always loved humanitarian causes, so I decided to marry the two.” She tracked down Al Gore’s personal assistant and began asking celebrities to design eco-themed T-shirts. A dozen fashion icons including Kate Moss, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jade Jagger, Carine Roitfeld and Christy Turlington turned in designs. The limited editions of 500 of each style will be manufactured by Rupert Meaker, founder of the hip Buddhist Punk brand. “Kate’s has a drawing in her own hand of a sun, moon, flower and star and the words ‘Kate woz ere!’” Gamboa says.
Net profits from the shirts go to the cause as well. “It’s important that our industry do what we can,” says Virginia Orr, managing director of Shirin Guild. The London-based company was showing an exclusive collection of environmentally aware designs in Guild’s signature roomy cuts. The baby alpaca, cashmere, silk, wool, linen and cotton used have no chemical finishes or dyes. The pale ecru and earthy greys are “all natural colours as they come off the animal,” Orr says. Seams are stitched with cotton or silk, rather than synthetic fibres. “We all have to take some responsibility for our planet,” she says. “It’s our greatest limited edition — there’s only one.” For more information, see lenyicons.com. CONSCIOUS CONSUMPTION Is it possible for fashion enthusiasts to indulge their passions and still be socially responsible? I asked Orr and The Climate Project’s Gary Dunham,
who was on hand at the Limited Edition New York show, to help educate fashionistas on global warming. “If you can’t be environmentally conscious, then be socially conscious,” says Orr, whose company manufactures within a 50-kilometre radius of its U.K. headquarters. “Fashion is about change, but you can have that and still be conscious. The important thing is that everyone do something to make a difference.” Dunham agrees. “I’m gratified that the fashion industry has taken an interest in The Climate Project,” he says. “We expect the energy companies and automobile companies to be aware.” But fashion is still learning, he acknowledges, and that’s okay. Any attempt at reducing a fashion company’s corporate footprint, or painting a company green, is welcomed, he says. “Just you being here and getting the word out makes a difference. It doesn’t have to be any more dramatic than that.”
WEIGHTY ISSUE Lisa Tant, editor of Flare magazine, weighed in on the matter of skinny models as she and I were waiting for the Derek Lam show to start Feb. 6. “It’s very frustrating,” Tant lamented. “We would like to shoot more size 6 models, but the designer samples don’t fit them. The clothes haven’t been produced yet, so we can’t get larger sizes. You can’t cut the clothes to make them fit, so our hands are tied. We have to use models that fit the clothes.” The tiny sizing, she added, comes about from the “current runway aesthetic, which is very, very small, especially in Europe.” Tant would also like to see the age of the models become an issue. “There are 15-year-olds on the runway who have been modelling for two years. That’s ridiculous. At Flare, we try not to shoot girls under 16, but sometimes the agencies lie,” she said. “We printed one model’s age and then one of her relatives phoned and called us liars. But that’s what her agency had told us her age was.”
EVENTS FEBRUARY 9 • Buddy Wasisname and the Other Fellers’ Dirty Big Tour at the St. John’s Arts and Culture Centre. Performances continue until Feb. 10. • The Mount Pearl Frosty Festival continues, see www.mountpearl.ca for schedule of events and more information. • Bluebird North, an evening of songs and the stories that inspired them, featuring Barney Bentall, Melanie Doane, Danny Michel, Blair Packham and Justin Rutledge, LSPU Hall, 8 p.m. Also Feb. 10. • Rockin’ for the Creatures, a benefit for Heavenly Creatures animal rescue, featuring Virginia Fudge, Missed by the Good, and Chris Kirby and the Marquee, Distortion, George St., 11 p.m. • Mike Herriott in concert: Bebop and beyond with Bill Brennan, Scott Mansfield, Josh Ward and Kirk Newhook, 9 p.m., Majestic Theatre, Duckworth Street, 5793023. • Reading by poet Phil Hall, 7:30-9 p.m., Petro-Canada Hall, Memorial University School of Music. • NewFound Music’s free lunchtime concert featuring MUN Music graduates Funky Dory, The Noblemen and more. Noon-1 p.m., D. F. Cook Recital Hall, School of Music. • NewFound Music Festival IV continues with an evening of works by Clark Ross, Jennifer O’Neill, Paul Steffler, Gilles Tremblay, Oystein Baadsyik, and composerin-residence, Chan Ka Nin, D. F. Cook Recital Hall, Memorial University School of Music. FEBRUARY 10 • sHEAVY at Junctions, Water Street, 10 p.m. • Original art gifts and Sweet Somethings on sale at Eastern Edge Gallery, Harbour Drive, noon-5 p.m., 739-1882. • NewFound Music Festival IV concludes with performances of Our Finest Hour by composer Cha Ka Nin, as well as Verspechen by the Music School’s own Kati Agocs, D. F. Cook Recital Hall, Memorial University School of Music, 8 p.m. FEBRUARY 11 • Avalon Unitarian Fellowship’s weekly service, 10:30 a.m., Anna Templeton Center, 278 Duckworth St. • Auditions for new CBC -TV talent show Triple Sensation (singing, acting, dancing), School of Music, Memorial University, 8 a.m.-noon, www.triplesensation.ca FEBRUARY 12 • Mother-to-mother breastfeeding support group’s monthly meeting at Sobey’s Community Room, Torbay Road Plaza. Babies are welcome, 7 p.m. • For the love of beagles auction and chocolate buffet, a fundraiser for Beagle Paws,
Bella Vista, Torbay Road, 7 p.m. • Debut Atlantic presents Allen Harrington, saxophone and Laura Loewen, piano at the Corner Brook Arts and Culture Centre. FEBRUARY 13 • The Stage Door Johnnies and friends at the St. John’s Arts and Culture Centre. FEBRUARY 14 • Vicky Hynes at Folk Night, the Ship Pub, 9 p.m. • The Writers’ Alliance of Newfoundland and Labrador presents a reading by award-winning poet Carmine Starnino, at The Rooms second level lecture theatre, 7:30 p.m. Free admission. • Ain’t poetry grand, an evening of unforgettable words by Newfoundland writers David Benson, Michael Crummey, Joel Hynes, Carmelita McGrath, Agnes Walsh and Des Walsh, hosted by Lois Brown and Ruth Lawrence, LSPU Hall, 8 p.m., 753-4531. FEBRUARY 15 • Marion Bridge by Daniel MacIvor, directed by Varrick Grimes and featuring Melanie Caines, Deidre Gillard-Rowlings and Nicole Rousseau, LSPU Hall, 8 p.m., 753-4531. Continues through Feb. 18. • MUN Cinema series presents Manufactured Landscapes, Studio 12, Avalon Mall, 7 p.m. More information about this film and the season’s schedule is at www.mun.ca/cinema. • The Rankin Family, Mile One Centre, 8 p.m. • Revue ’06 at the Labrador West Arts and Culture Centre, 8 p.m., 944-5412. Also Feb. 16. IN THE GALLERIES • Kinetic Portraits of 12 Canadian Writers by Peter Wilkins, The Rooms. • Shift, an exhibition of new art by Kathy Browning and Susan Jamieson, until Feb. 25 at the RCA gallery, LSPU Hall. • The Death of the Party, Part Two, (the counter ironic-contrarian-hipster-remix), by Les Newman (Manitoba) and Taking Care of Business by Mira Lyn Lu and Immony Men (Quebec) at Eastern Edge Gallery until Feb. 24. • Celebrate Craft, a juried group exhibition at the Craft Council Gallery, Devon House, Duckworth St. CALL FOR PROPOSALS Sound Symposium invites artists from all sound arts fields to propose projects, installations and performances for the 16th Sound Symposium scheduled for July 3-13, 2008. The event’s theme is Inner Space, Outer Space, and the deadline is July 15, 2007. Visit www.soundsymposium.ca for more.
FEBRUARY 9-15, 2007
What’s new in the automotive industry
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Hear the engines roar T
he year 1967 was a special one in speed transmissions in order to stanCanada for motorcycle racing — dardize racing. we had our very first and last In the final year of multi-cylinder 250cc Grand Prix race. While the usual mayhem, Bill Ivey and Phil Read rode tour ripped through Europe, for Yamaha while Ralph it was scheduled to hit the Bryans and Mike Hailwood Mosport Park in Ontario as rode for Honda. This pack of part of our Centennial celedogs chased each other for 13 brations and the lucky fans races on difficult race courswere treated to the last great es, fighting mechanical failera of multi-cylinder innovaure, the elements and each tion. Yamaha dominated the other until Hailwood emerged 250cc class at the time with a victorious and propelled the water-cooled, v-four-cylinsix-cylinder Honda to mythiMARK der configuration coupled cal status. WOOD with an eight-speed transmisTwelve years later the sion, extremely advanced famous was marWOODY’S keted as motorcycle engineering that wouldn’t be the CBX 1000, still a WHEELS six-cylinder but four times the marketed for another 17 years. engine size of its predecessor Honda yearned for the world cham- and rumoured to be the fastest commerpionship and created an air-cooled, six- cially available motorcycle at the time. cylinder engine with a seven-speed Even though it had a limited production transmission that was marketed in an span of only four years the CBX 1000 oversized version 12 years later. lived up to its legend and became a The 1967 Motorcycle Grand Prix is much sought-after collectors bike. singled out by vintage motorcycle Around that time there were a couple enthusiasts as one of the most hotly of motorcycle enthusiasts from Portucontested battles of all time and led to gal attending Memorial University and the restriction of race machines to have one of them acquired a new CBX with no more than two cylinders with six- a few modifications to it, including a
six-into-one header. To the uninitiated, a header is a high performance exhaust system. The original system channeled three cylinders into two mufflers for an excellent rumble. The six-into-one header channeled six cylinders into a single pipe with no muffler and could be heard a couple of kilometres away. I remember the sound very well. Just after supper on a warm summer’s eve one would hear the strains of the screaming CBX, hop on a bicycle and pedal 200 metres or so to catch an unobstructed view of two crazy Portuguese on motorcycles chasing each other up the road. You could hear them cresting hills two kilometres away as they made the Avalon Peninsula their own private racetrack. Alas, one was deported while the other one on the CBX graduated and rode off into the sunset. My brother-in-law, Pete, had a CBX too, and over a family meal a few weeks ago he recounted how it lasted all of two days before it was wrecked. He was on a highway in Nova Scotia, clipping along on his brand new CBX when a deer ran out in front of him. This would be the lesser cousin of the moose but still a huge animal to hit
with anything. Pete had a fraction of a second to react and opted not to try and swerve but to brace himself and hit it squarely in the middle between the shoulder and the hips. Pete burst completely through in a shower of blood and guts, the wrecked CBX sliding and tumbling down the road in a shower of sparks. He slid to a stop on the side of the road in surprisingly fine shape — nothing broken, no cuts, just bruised and shook up. People stopped and ran over to him but recoiled in horror as he was festooned in meat, guts and gore, having just instantly paunched a deer
with a motorcycle. One witness claimed it just exploded on impact. Pete went on to buy another CBX. His brother, Jeff, however, restored a Yamaha RZ 500 a few short years ago. This would be the offspring of the racer from 17 years prior, finally making it to a limited production of two years with twice the engine size and a real prize for collectors. It was the quickest machine I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. Mark Wood of Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s enjoys bench racing in the winter.
26 • INDEPENDENTSHIFT
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
Many Canadian racers deserving of celebration J
ohn Lacey, the owner of Doncaster Racing, whose Porsche 911 finished eighth in the GT Class in the late-January Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona with his son Dave and Greg Wilkins driving, said these exact words to me a year ago March: “If you look at motor racing as a benchmark around the world, whether you’re talking about Villeneuve or Tracy, we have produced many world class racing stars disproportionate to our population and signifiNORRIS MCDONALD cantly disproportionate to our weather and the length of our racing season. For whatever reason, Canada doesn’t seem to embrace that.” I don’t know about the country, but the media sure doesn’t. While Canadian drivers literally owned the Rolex 24 in so many ways, most newspapers ignored the event entirely and the one or two that did publish stories carried not much more than a paragraph about Juan Pablo Montoya and Scott Pruett being the winners. Radio and TV apparently don’t consider the Rolex 24 worthy of much mention either, even though it is one of the three mega-sportscar races in the world. So, although late, here’s the news. Canadians finished second, fifth and 10th overall (out of 69 cars) in the 24hour race, finished first in the GT class, finished one-two in the three-hour Grand Am Koni Challenge that preceded the headline event and won the secondary class in that support race in which more than 100 cars went to the post. Pretty impressive, eh? Even better is that Canadian David Empringham won the Koni Challenge on the Friday and then came back Saturday-Sunday to guide AIM Autosport of Woodbridge’s Daytona Prototype entry to a fifth-place finish in the A Main. Empringham was in a gleeful mood when I caught up with him in his office above fellow driver (and arch-rival) Scott Maxwell’s Mini-Grid bookstore in midtown Toronto. And why was Empringham so happy? Because the fellow he beat in the Koni Challenge was none other than his landlord, Maxwell. “We had so much fun,” Empringham said. “We’re best friends and just had a ball in that race. We’d gone to a test in January and at the end of the day we were both a second clear of the rest of the field (100-plus cars, remember) and he beat me by about a hundredth of a second. We were joking that the race was going to come down to the two of us and that’s how it turned out.” Maxwell, it seems, even gave his buddy — they were running one-two at the time — a “push” at one point. “I was having trouble getting past this one guy,” Empringham said. “I was kind
TRACK TALK
Patrick Carpentier of Canada sits in the cockpit of his race car in pit lane at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway before qualifying for the Indianpolis 500 in 2005. Geoff Miller/Reuters
of stuck behind him. So Scotty just rammed me. The momentum shot me past that guy. I was a car-length behind him and before you know it I was a carlength in front. So I took off.
“Scott finally got past the guy himself and told me later that he was mad at me because I didn’t wait for him.” Maxwell, who lost the lead to Empringham on the last lap, said if he
had to finish second in a race to anybody, he was glad it was Empringham. “It was one of the best races I’ve ever been in,” he said. “We must have made contact eight or nine times on the last
lap. (Bill) Auberlen was running third and said later that he was just waiting for us to take each other out. But there was no danger of that. We were racing hard but we were giving each other the benefit of the doubt.” The next time the two friends and rivals will be able to race head-to-head will be Father’s Day weekend, June 1517, at Ontario’s Mosport International Raceway when the Grand Am Series and the NASCAR Canadian Tire series will be featured. Empringham has other duties — primarily coaching drivers James Hinchcliffe and Raphael Matos in the Formula Atlantic series — that will keep him out of the Koni Challenge races till then. “We’re already arguing about who’s home track it (Mosport) will be,” he laughed. Said Maxwell: “Leave the other 100 cars at home. That race is going to come down to the two of us anyway.” Not one to be missed, for sure. Here are other Canadian/Daytona success stories: • Patrick Carpentier (with nonCanadians Darren Manning, Ryan Dalziel and Milka Duno who could become the third woman driver to race in the IRL this year, with Danica Patrick and Sarah Fisher) finished second overall in the Daytona 24, driving a prototype. • Empringham brought the Aim Autosport Daytona Prototype home fifth in the feature. Mark Wilkins of Toronto shared the driving. • Michael Valiente of Vancouver was tenth overall in a prototype. • Jean-Francois Dumoulin, of TroisRivieres, was 11th overall but first in the GT class, driving a Porsche. • Dave Lacey and Greg Wilkins, both of Toronto, drove Doncaster Racing’s Porsche to eighth place in the GT class and 20th place overall. They were in position to win their class until a coolant hose leak and a problem with the throttle cable resulted in a lengthy stop. Said Dave Lacey: “It’s unfortunate the rad hose let us down. I’m thrilled with the effort, but the result is a little bit disappointing. I think we had a podium car and we got let down by a 50-cent piece.” But Greg Wilkins heaped praise on AIM Autosport’s efforts in preparing and servicing both the Porsche and the fifth-place Daytona Prototype: “For AIM to bring both the GT car and the prototype to the 24 Hours of Daytona for the first time and have the GT car finish eighth and the prototype finish fifth is just unbelievable. That should go in the record books.” • Paul Tracy of Scarborough (co-driving with honourary Canadian A.J. Allmendinger of Toronto) finished 26th in a prototype. • Pierre Bourque of Ottawa was 28th, Fraser Wellon of Mississauga was 44th, Mark Pavan of Toronto was 53rd and Alex Tagliani of Montreal was 59th. And in the Koni Challenge’s Street Tuner class, Karl Thomson of Toronto was first. This is surely all worthy of recognition and celebration, isn’t it?
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
INDEPENDENTSHIFT • 27
Sales of cars, light trucks up 5.8 per cent in January
C
anadian sales of passenger cars and light trucks were up 5.8 per cent in January compared with last year, with almost all of the growth coming from Asian and European automakers. Toyota Canada reported a record January from its Toyota and Lexus divisions, with total vehicle sales reaching 10,168 units – an increase of 9.3 per cent over January 2006. The company sold 6,836 cars, up 3.9 per cent from last year, including 801 under the Lexus nameplate. Toyota’s 3,332 truck sales were up 22.4 per cent over last January, the company said. STUCK IN NEUTRAL In contrast, the three Detroit-based automakers were stuck in neutral, or in the case of General Motors, slipping backwards. GM’s total Canadian light vehicle sales fell by 1.6 per cent to 22,325 in January, down from 22,687 a year earlier. It remains Canada’s largest
Be glad you can walk
automaker in terms of units sold. DaimlerChrysler took No. 2 spot in terms of units sold, with a slim increase of 0.7 per cent to 16,520 vehicles from 16,405 in January 2007. Ford’s Canadian sales were flat at 11,585 vehicles sold. Honda Canada Inc. reported sales of 7,133 units by its Honda and Acura divisions, up seven per cent over last year. Honda’s automobile division sales of 5,972 units were up three per cent while the luxury Acura division sold 1,161 units, up 29 per cent from a year ago. Total industry light vehicle sales in January were 91,180, up 5.8 per cent from 86,198 last year, according to DesRosiers Automotive Reports. Most of the growth came from sales of light trucks, which increased by 15.4 per cent to 48,475 from 42,012. In contrast, auto sales fell 3.4 per cent to 42,705 from 44,186, DesRosiers said.
HOT WHEELS
THERE IS A SPECIAL GALLERY IN HELL RESERVED FOR THOSE WHO ABUSE HANDICAPPED PARKING PASSES
R
eading an article recently in the reckon right from wrong. She’d purToronto Star, I was reminded of loined the pass from a family member. an elite group of people who She’d actually park in the handicapped have their own little gallery in Hell zone at the hospital, where all those already roped off. pesky outpatients requiring chemotherPeople who abuse handicapped park- apy and blood transfusions might need ing passes. You know the ones — their to park. Ah, heck, the exercise would only handicap is a total lack do them well. of moral fibre. They are the How swinish have we Chosen Ones — too special become that we can’t grant to park and walk, they instead such a small civility to those have borrowed, stolen or othless abled? How cowardly erwise secured a free pass to are we to steal away yet more breeze by the rest of us. mobility from someone who The Star did a glorious is already facing an uphill number, camped out in tony battle? LORRAINE Yorkville and monitoring the I have some questions for SOMMERFELD stream of Escalades disgorgthose of you who misuse ing all manner of fit and fabuthese passes, or designated lous socialites as they buzzed spots. Is your life so tiny that in and out of boutiques, all you feel this small piece of the while parked in the prepaper gives you an edge? Do cious no parking zones. you get a rush of superiority Apparently, you can acquire a tempo- that you don’t need to wait for a spot, or rary pass if you’re injured. Apparently, dart through bad weather? Or is the you’re supposed to give it back when opposite? Do you think nobody you’re well. Apparently, this equation notices? is just too difficult for some people to We notice. Some of us say somemaster. thing, some of us give you the benefit I believe our universe works in mys- of the doubt. But be very aware that we terious ways, and that over the course all notice. of a lifetime a series of checks and balMost of us have reached an age ances comes into play. I believe that if where someone in our lives is affected you misuse a handicapped parking by your pigheaded behaviour. We have space, you will be rewarded with a true a personal stake in this, even if it’s just inability to walk twice that distance in the message you’re sending to our chilthe future. Karma’s a bitch. dren. Your convenience trumps anothI once knew a woman who would er’s struggle. actually park in the handicapped areas There are legitimate disabilities that all over town. She had no disability aren’t discernable to the eye. Many of apart from a stunning incapacity to those affected by lung diseases can’t
POWER SHIFT
walk far, and extreme fatigue is an unfortunate consequence of many illnesses. I’ve also known people affected by such disabilities that celebrate a “good” day by parking further away intentionally. When you are measuring your successes with such a small spoon, surely the rest of us could be a little more helpful. Because I can’t harp on the whole world at once, let’s first just highlight those who illegally park without a sticker at all. Brazen, arrogant, and lazy. I don’t care if you’re just running in for a second. Many of us are. And if someone calls you on it? Keep your indignant posturing to yourself. You’re wrong. Apologize and move. To those improperly using handicapped stickers? Hand back the temporary one you don’t need anymore. Don’t keep it “just in case.” Don’t tempt yourself, don’t loan it out, and don’t use it. It’s apparent these things are easier to get than a rash in a patch of poison ivy, so don’t worry. If you legitimately need one, you can have one. If your parent has one and that parent isn’t with you, guess what? You’re just a normal, everyday parking person. Unless we all become simultaneously blind, we can see what you’re doing. Look. This is such a small way to do the right thing. In this world, the small things matter because we’re getting so many of the big ones wrong. Park where you’re supposed to, be glad you can walk, and stop thinking the rules are for everybody else. www.lorraineonline.ca
A customised car is displayed during the International Motor Show Festival in Zaragoza, Spain, Feb. 2, 2007. Luis Correas/Reuters
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28 • INDEPENDENTFUN
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
WEEKLY DIVERSIONS ACROSS 1 Reveal indiscreetly 5 Like areas of drought 9 Health spring 12 Turkish official, once 17 Curse 18 Cut into small cubes 19 It’s not free of charge? 20 Flower of the fall 21 Inconsistent 24 “Can you ___ a dime?” 25 City’s drainage 26 Wheel (Fr.) 27 Brainwave 28 Before of yore 29 Northern forest cat 30 Puccini opera 33 Calcutta currency 36 Reproduction 37 Form of wrestling 38 Army bed 41 Stratford-upon-___ (UK) 42 “World’s largest Western ___” (Edmonton) 43 Cause of most severe flood in Canadian history 44 Natural resource 45 Soldiers (not officers) 46 Qom’s country 47 Criminal 48 Pique performance 49 Like an idol 51 Weight of an empty
CHUCKLE BROS
container 52 Cloud (Fr.) 53 Having a variety of colours 57 Assembly of witches 60 Regretted 61 Second Parliamentary Poet Laureate: Pauline ___ 64 In the sack 65 Erodes 67 Jacobs of urbanism 68 Friend, ironically 70 It fastens a tent rope 71 Moon of Jupiter 72 Light’s out if it blows 73 Two-wheeler 74 Potato bud 75 Kind of cod 76 First claim 77 Walked 78 Coronet 80 Japanese syllabic script 81 Ran into 82 Comedian Cullen 84 Hairless 85 Administer 88 Photo collection 90 Cowardly 93 Mexican sauce 94 Cigar dropping 95 Cork’s country 96 Both: prefix 97 Rest on the knees 98 Rug 99 Belgian river 100 Kind of tide
DOWN 1 The Beeb, to Brits 2 Its capital is Vientiane 3 Sainte ___ de Beaupré, Que. 4 Like a fence, in a way 5 Saying 6 Travel astride 7 “___ Farce Canada!” 8 Decipher 9 Plains people 10 Skin’s breathing hole 11 At least a little 12 Dance step 13 Jiggly buffet dish 14 Iroquois village at present site of Quebec City 15 Present 16 Side by side? 22 Nearly extinct 23 An Esposito 29 Ontario’s official bird: common ___ 30 Eminent Canadian geophysicist: ___ Wilson 31 Harbinger 32 The sun (myth.) 33 Crash into 34 Eye part 35 Site with Rita MacNeil’s Tea Room: Big ___, Cape Breton 36 She wrote Saints of Big Harbour 37 City of witchcraft tri-
als (1692) 39 Not a copy (abbr.) 40 French thinker? 42 Belgian singer, songwriter 43 Biblical king 46 Decrease? 47 Cabbies’ targets 48 ___ a Long Journey (Mistry) 50 Opinion page 51 Day before TGIF 52 Amiable 54 Lauzon of “Air Farce” 55 Gather 56 Prong 57 ___ Canaveral 58 Conform 59 Edible plant 62 The Iliad, e.g. 63 Chilko or Waskesiu 65 Tee user 66 Sicilian volcano 67 Ukrainian mayor of Winnipeg, 1957-77 69 Headed 71 Provincial rep. 72 Author of Not Wanted on the Voyage 73 Wildlife painter 76 Artist of melting watches 77 About: prefix 79 Occupied (2 wds.) 80 Buckwheat cereal 81 “Wild Goose Jack” 82 Prov. with least fog
83 Verve 84 Occupied 85 Duel starter
86 ___-by-Chance, Nfld. 87 Large wind instrument
89 Bad: prefix 90 Norm on the links 91 Fleur de ___
92 Drink slowly Solutions page 30
Brian and Ron Boychuk
WEEKLY STARS ARIES (MAR. 21 TO APR. 19) A long-forgotten promise is recalled. It’s not too late to follow up on it. You might find a pleasant surprise waiting. See a doctor about that pesky eye problem. TAURUS (APRI. 20 TO MAY 20) The best way to get over a personal disappointment is to get out, meet old friends and make new ones. One of those new friends could very well become a new VSP (Very Special Person) in your life. GEMINI (MAY 21 TO JUNE 20) A chance to invest comes with some strings attached that could cause economic problems later on. Be careful. Cupid favors romantic possibilities with a loving Libra or a passionate Pisces. CANCER (JUNE 21 TO JULY 22) A simple problem threatens to turn
into a legal showdown, unless it’s cleared up soon. Wishing it away won’t help. A telephone call could lead to a change in travel plans. LEO (JULY 23 TO AUG. 22) A close friend who suddenly becomes remote is in need of your warm reassurance. Give it generously. A misunderstanding on the job creates the potential for future problems. Settle it quickly.
matter through. A Gemini has romance on the mind. SCORPIO (OCT. 23 TO NOV. 21) You could soon face a fascinating dilemma: Do you continue seeing this Very Special Person currently in your life, or renew a relationship with another VSP who will suddenly return from your past?
VIRGO (AUG. 23 TO SEPT. 22) Career advancement involves the need for added training. The investment of your time and effort will pay off. Some stormy personal situations begin to calm down.
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 TO DEC. 21) Financial problems need your attention. It’s a good idea to cut back on unnecessary expenses until these money matters are under control. Then go out and have a great time.
LIBRA (SEPT. 23 TO OCT. 22) Scale back on those grandiose schemes for a while. Neither the time nor the circumstances are right to make the huge financial investment needed to see the
CAPRICORN (DEC. 22 TO JAN. 19) What you may now see as a good reason to end a relationship could turn out to be based more on supposition than substance.
AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 TO FEB. 18) Change is the watchword for this week. Some Aquarians will be moving to new places while others will be taking new career paths. Steer clear of a family dispute. PISCES (FEB. 19 TO MAR. 20) Be prepared for that romantic disappointment to become a fading memory with the arrival of a new love, possibly a Gemini. Talk to someone you trust about developing your idea into a marketable product. YOU BORN THIS WEEK You have a high regard for loyalty. You give it freely, and you expect it to be returned. You never flinch from making a decision, even if it involves much agitation and soulsearching. (c) 2007 King Features Syndicate, Inc.
Fill in the grid so that each row of nine squares, each column of nine and each section of nine (three squares by three) contains the numbers 1 through 9 in any order. There is only one solution to each puzzle. Solutions, tips and computer program available at www.sudoko.com SOLUTION ON PAGE 30
INDEPENDENTSPORTS
FRIDAY THROUGH THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9-15, 2007 — PAGE 29
Lucy Price coaches the Grade 5 boys team during the NLBA under-11 provincial B championship last weekend.
Paul Daly/The Independent
The Price is right Leadership and fair play are keys to St. Francis Falcons’ basketball success
By Don Power For The Independent
L
ucy Price would be the first person to tell you that not every child will become an athlete. However, she’s also a firm believer that every child should have the opportunity to find that out for himself or herself. It’s that philosophy that guides the St. Francis of Assisi Falcons Basketball Association in Logy Bay-Middle CoveOuter Cove. “Built around the concepts of participation and tolerance, this program will promote a fair and equal opportunity for all students,” the program’s constitution reads. Price and Wayne Bartlett started the program seven years ago by re-introducing basketball at the school, for Grades 6 through 8. Since then, the program has grown to include every class in the now K-6 school. It’s become so successful that 75 per cent of the St. Francis students participate — about 142 of the 190 students in the school are active mem-
bers. “If we had tried to turn it into a competitive situation … I don’t think we’d be as successful,” Price said following an under-11 boys tournament at the school last weekend. “Everybody is not an athlete. No matter how much you practise the kid, you cannot turn some kids into athletes. It’s not their nature (the same as) everybody’s not a musician. But for a child to be able to come into the gym, no matter what skill level, and be able to realize they’re going to be able to play in the game, there’s a lot to be said for it.” And while the program bases its principles on a recreational model, competitive players have emerged. The Gonzaga Vikings senior high school girls basketball team — which is ranked No. 1 in the province heading into next weekend’s Elite Eight tournament — has two
Falcons alumni on its roster. Ten St. Francis graduates are now members of McDonald Drive boys and girls teams. But Price says even if kids never pick up a basketball once they finish Grade 6, their experiences will stick with them a lifetime. “Five boys and five girls made McDonald Drive teams,” she noted. “That’s great for the kids who are really interested in basketball and want to carry it on to high school. “However, one of the things I really like about our program is it gives kids who might not make teams at the junior high level the opportunity to play with a school team, wear a school uniform, and get involved in all the excitement.” Ah, the uniform. In the program’s early stages, lawyer and businessman Steve Marshall, whose kids attended the school, donated a scoreboard and clock,
as well as four sets of uniforms. Several people believe it was the uniforms — the blue and white tank tops and shorts with the school name on them — that galvanized the program. “When those youngsters got those first sets of uniforms …” Price says, her voice trailing off. From its inception, the program has been inclusive, open to every school student. And with an annual cost of just $30 per child (to a maximum of $60 per family), the price is right. However, Price, president of the association and one of the many coaches involved, says it’s more than that. It’s about pride, self-esteem and community involvement. “I think it’s successful because it’s not based on a competitive model,” Price stated. “It’s recreational. Every child who wants to play basketball can play basketball. “I think it’s the opportunity for everySee “Beneficial,” page 30
Softball has bats, but no balls Lack of governance at provincial and national levels is making Canadian championship a mockery
P
eering out a window at the banks of pure white snow makes one think of outdoor activities, and the associated enjoyment of them. Snowmobiling, sliding and skating on the ponds are all winter activities to be enjoyed this time of year. Yet for some reason, my mind is thinking about softball. (Yeah, I’ve been accused of having a strange mind for many years, so you’re not the first to say something like that.) I realize that the middle of February would seem to be an odd time to have softball first and foremost in your thoughts. But when you sit and look at things, it’s very rational. Hockey is played by many in the
DON POWER
Power Point winter, and thought about during the summer months, especially by administrators or those counting the days till ice returns to the arenas. It’s the same way for softball fanatics. Once Thanksgiving Day weekend passes, gloves and cleats are put away until Victoria Day, and the game reverts from the green pastures of fields everywhere to the pastures of one’s mind. This year, more than others, softball
is prominent in the minds of many, especially the elite fastpitch players in the province. That’s because later this summer — Aug. 26 to Sept. 2 to be precise — St. John’s will be the host city for the 2007 Canadian Senior Men’s Softball Championship. Because of its hosting status, Newfoundland will enter two teams in the event: a provincial representative and host team, providing 34 players an opportunity to participate. It’s a great opportunity for the local softball players who have played in the local league and kept it alive for decades to showcase their abilities on a national stage. The four-team St. John’s Senior Men’s Softball league is one of
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the best in the country, and just this past season celebrated its 50th anniversary. Well, it should be an opportunity for the locals to display their wares. However, word is that as many as seven or eight guys who play locally will be displaced this summer, and end up on the same side of the fence as you and me, watching the week-long tournament. Don’t think so? Check out this potential lineup for the first Newfoundland team. I’ll call them Impact Signs, leaving Grumpy Stump as the second team. Sean O’Brien catching. Rob O’Brien and Frank Cox pitching. Infield consists of first baseman Jason Hill, shortstop Geoff Evely and potentially Ward
Gosse (also a pitcher) on second, and Blair Ezekiel or Darrell Walsh on third base. The outfield may consist of Colin Abbott, Stephen Mullaley and Ryan Wolfe. Word also has it guys like Blair Langmead and either Scott Dwyer or John Farrell will also be on that team. (Rob Gray’s name has also been tossed about, which would most likely push Walsh to the second team.) The O’Briens are from St. John’s but haven’t worn Newfoundland colours since the dollars started flying around the sport of softball. Cox and Wolfe are from Ontario. Abbott, Mullaley, Evely, Ezekiel and Hill are locals who play on See “Ex-pats,”page 30
30 • INDEPENDENTSPORTS
FEBRUARY 9, 2007
‘Beneficial to the kids’ From page 29 body to play regardless of their skill level, and the full support from the community and the school.” And the Falcons certainly get support from both. With the program accessing the school gym Monday through Thursday for five hours every afternoon, obviously school support is paramount. Throw in occasional weekend tournaments, and the gymnasium is a busy place. “We find it’s very beneficial to the kids,” principal Gerard Rumsey says, adding his staff provides “very active support” in terms of school supervision and gym access. “This is great, especially since it’s parent-run. Teachers help out, but it’s the whole community getting together, it’s so positive. “The entire staff is behind them.” Even the school council sees benefits. “The program provides many of these children with a sense of pride in their school, and their community,” says Tim O’Leary, chairman of the school council who has one child playing and another graduated from the program. “They are learning life skills through a sporting environment and having fun at the same time.” In the beginning, Price and Bartlett ran everything: all the practices, organizing schedules, collecting registration. Today, the school’s office collects the fees, 20 parents volunteer to coach, and many more volunteer for tournaments.
FROM DUNGY TO PENTHOUSE
“(The students have) self esteem and school spirit,” Rumsey states as benefits from the program. “You have children in that program who would never access a team, they’d never have that experience. I think it’s great for their self-esteem; the fact they’re playing, the fact they have uniforms, they represent the school and the community.” But the Falcons’ association is not all about taking. Over the last few years, thanks to proceeds from tournaments hosted in the school, the association has made tremendous donations to St. Francis, contributing more than $10,000 in sports equipment to the facility, including glass backboards and adjustable nets. (The school board installed a new floor this past fall, making the gym the envy of many visiting teams.) Still, Price feels the biggest value comes from watching the children participate. And no matter how often she’s in the gymnasium — and with a regular eight hours weekly spent on the basketball floor, she’s there quite often — her satisfaction comes not from wins or losses, but the reaction of her players. “When you see a child who doesn’t score very many baskets, in a game where you’re down by 25 or 30 points, and he swishes one, to me the expression on his face is worth every hour I’ve put into the gym. “They’re the kids who you really know that this program has had a positive impact on.” donniep@nl.rogers.com
Ex-pats dominate lineups From page 29 the mainland, although Evely is said to be staying home, and Ezekiel played for Newfoundland last season. That means Newfoundland’s team could have as few as six or seven players from the local senior league, with just two potential starters. The rest are watching from the bench. Head coach Glenn Littlejohn of Impact Signs (although some say Colin Abbott is running the team) apparently has a list of players he’s interested in, but guys who play in the league can’t access it. Over on Grumpy Stump (Team Two), two Newfoundlanders have been signed to pitch, although neither lives here now. Sean Whitten and Matt Bramwell are both scheduled to pitch for American teams this summer (as are many on the Impact Signs team), and eligible to play in the nationals. Stephen Jesso, who can quit on a team in a heartbeat, is also being recruited to come “home” for this tournament. In 2005, Newfoundland won a silver medal at the national championship using a litany of players from the St. John’s league. Ward Gosse was outstanding at that event, and is one of the premier clutch players in the country. If we’re going to use all these ex-pat Newfoundlanders (in softball terms, meaning they play for mainland clubs), why call it Newfoundland? Why not
Solutions for crossword on page 28
call it Fort McMurray and be done with it? (Does any of this remind you of the old days of the Newfoundland Senior Hockey League, when rules be damned, and imports ruled — and ruined — the day? We all know what happened to that institution.) The real problem is not players jumping from province to province to suit their financial needs (as much as $5,000 is the rumoured price Rob O’Brien will be paid … er, given; they’re amateur athletes). It’s the lack of leadership at both the Softball Canada and Softball Newfoundland and Labrador level. For sport governing bodies, neither has the balls to last the summer. Getting any information on this event from either Softball Canada or Softball Newfoundland and Labrador is not easy. (SNL’s website is looking for volunteers, but leaves no contact information for interested people.) A chairman hasn’t been named. Fastpitch softball is dying. The men’s game has been removed from the Canada Games and may never return. The International Softball Congress world championship (for club teams with deep pockets) is now the apex for most players. But in St. John’s at least, the nationals still hold some lustre. Don’t let it lose its shine. donniep@nl.rogers.com
Solutions for sudoku on page 28
Indianapolis Colts coach Tony Dungy is carried off the field after the Colts defeated the Chicago Bears in the NFL's Super Bowl XLI football game in Miami, Florida, February 4, 2007. REUTERS/Mike Blake
Another angle on climate change Warmer weather is wrecking havoc on water levels, salmon spawning and angling season
F
or dedicated fly anglers it’s now peak fly tying season. Many days are of the “not fit to go outdoors” sort, and the nights are long. There’s an easy choice for me: watch the diarrhea of reality programming on cable TV or tie flies in my very own little room while serenaded by music or Night Line on the radio? It’s a no-brainer. I suppose I shouldn’t be too cynical. There are indeed some fine informative and entertaining programs on the tube. I love those Myth Busters, and if you’re into the outdoors you should really check out Ray Mears’ Bushcraft series. For a lad from the big city (London, England), he sure can light a campfire, hone a knife and paddle a canoe. Anyway, although there might be a sprinkling of quality TV, my fly tying desk and Linda Swain beckon me when the cold wind blows and darkness falls early. On weekends I settle for The Cabin Party or Big Hairy Tunes. And I’d crack my favourite rod off across my knee rather than watch another CSI or Law and Order, even if they make a St. John’s edition. Anyway, this winter I’m spending plenty of time at the tying desk and when there’s just too much political blarney on Night Line, I’m giving my ears an introduction to the blues — broadening my musical perspective, I suppose. Last night, while checking out the latest from BB King, I mused over my salmon fly inventory and what flies needed to be tied for summer 2007. I’m finding myself tying more and more smaller salmon flies each year. There seems to be less water as the years pass. Low water requires smaller flies and stealthier presentation; even in Labrador, river levels have run precariously low for the better part of the past few summers. I haven’t seen decently high water on the Pinware in four or five years. While we fished last July, we recorded the water level and temperature each day. In eight days the river dropped about 14 inches and warmed several degrees leaving salmon lethargic and stressed. There seems to be a trend towards hot dry summers, and this is bad for
PAUL SMITH
The Rock
Outdoors both salmon and salmon fishing. Even the mighty Eagle has been moderately afflicted by the low water plague — but the smaller rivers have been reduced to dribbles. Salmon have been forced to mill about river mouths for many weeks awaiting rain. And it’s not just in Newfoundland where our climate is normally cyclical and chaotic. Last summer, low water chased me everywhere I fished. While in Ireland last June I fished the River
The Scots begin fishing after the salmon have completed their spawning, which is triggered by the winter’s frosty nudging. Blackwater near Fermoy, just an hour north of Cork. Wouldn’t you know it, the water was dead low and the fishing had been slow for weeks. No Irish salmon for me. A few days later I did manage to catch my first Irish salmon on the Balynahinch in Connemara. Although the water was a little low my small fly inventory paid off. In August, Rod Hale and I travelled to Great Bear Lake in the North West Territories to fish for lake trout with a fly rod. Lake trout are the biggest and nastiest of trout but, unfortunately for fly anglers, they prefer very deep cold water, which there is plenty of in Great Bear. But as the short arctic summer wanes and winter approaches, lakers move to the shoals prior to spawning. This is the golden opportunity for fly casters to hook into the biggest of trout — a privilege typically reserved for those inclined to troll weighted hardware at considerable depth behind a powered boat.
Imagine landing or even attempting to land a 50-pound lake trout on a light graphite fly rod. As I dozed on my long flight from St John’s, a great thump on the end of a phantom line brought me back to the conscious world. It is well documented that global warming is most pronounced and tangible in the meteorologically more stable arctic. The summer of 2006 was particularly hot by arctic standards, and the fine weather persisted well into late August and September. We went prepared for snow squalls and were treated to blue skies and warm sunshine. The conditions were great for comfort and photography, but the fish were a little confused and didn’t appear on the shoals according to our schedule. Anglers should certainly be aware of what Robert Burns said about the best laid plans of mice and men. As fishers must, we persevered and did indeed catch some fine specimens of lake trout but the really big lurkers eluded us. I just read in a Scottish newspaper that the opening of the salmon season on the River Tay was delayed by two weeks for the 2007 season. For more than 150 years, the opening has been celebrated in mid-January. This season, conservationists have adjusted the season by two weeks to accommodate the effects of climate change. Apparently, mild winters have thrown spawning cycles out of sync. The Scots begin fishing after the salmon have completed their spawning, which is triggered by the winter’s frosty nudging. So global warming is affecting us in the present, and posing a huge threat to angling in the future. I won’t get into the exact science, but there is plenty of it in journals, magazines, and on the Internet. Hopefully our elected representatives will become “greener” and tackle the environmental issues that threaten not only angling but the planet that sustains us. Paul Smith is a freelance writer and outdoor enthusiast living in Spaniard’s Bay. flyfishtherock@hotmail.com
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FEBRUARY 9, 2007
INDEPENDENTSPORTS • 31
INDEPENDENTCLASSIFIED FRIDAY THROUGH THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9-15, 2007 — PAGE 32
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