VOL. 5 ISSUE 35
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ST. JOHN’S, NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR — FRIDAY THROUGH THURSDAY, AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 6, 2007
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John Efford near his home in Bareneed.
Paul Daly/The Independent
‘I’d love to be premier’ John Efford wants the job, but takes a pass this time around EXCLUSIVE
J
ohn Efford is healthy and wants to be premier. In fact, he gushes with pride when asked how badly he wants to guide Newfoundland and Labrador. “I’d love to be the premier of this province,” Efford, 63, tells The Indepen-
BRIAN CALLAHAN dent in an exclusive interview from his home in Bareneed, a few minutes’ drive from Bay Roberts. A “young” 63, the longtime Liberal
interjects. “Paul Martin was 67 when he ran for prime minister,” he’s quick to point out. Hint, hint. Do the math. Efford may well try for the top job in the province some day — just not this time around. He has his reasons; most of them are personal. Efford’s home, like so many
others in the Conception Bay North area, was damaged in the wake of tropical storm Chantal. And there are other private matters that demand his attention these days. The courts appointed him legal guardian for a senior citizen whom he helped while in government, and continues to assist today.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK “And now we finally land the big tuna and now it’s ‘jeez, you know, there’s gotta be something wrong.’”
See “I would’ve,” page 2
Busted: the frustrating fight against drunk driving
— Dean MacDonald, on the Hebron MOU See page 5
OPINION 5
IVAN MORGAN
Ray Guy analyzes dream about Danny
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BUSINESS 13
Province’s second alpaca farm STYLE 27
Federal Liberal leader Stéphane Dion in conversation with The Independent.
Paul Daly/The Independent
‘We’ll act together’
Teachers talk back-to-school fashion Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sean Panting . . . . . . . . . . . . . Book review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
But that doesn’t mean he hasn’t been involved in matters political. The seasoned politician knows the landscape and likely outcome of the Oct. 9 provincial election, which also partly explains his reticence now. He says his health, however, is no
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Stéphane Dion pledges to restore NL trust in Ottawa; won’t wade into provincial election campaign STEPHANIE PORTER
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t’s no secret federal Liberal leader Stéphane Dion and Premier Danny Williams agree on a number of issues, not the least of which is a burning desire to unseat the current prime minister. Dion, who was in St. John’s this week for national caucus meetings,
says Williams’ ABC (Anything But Conservative) slogan is a good one; Williams has called Dion a man of “integrity” in the past. But Dion says he did not ask for Williams’ vote in the next federal election. Nor will he campaign on behalf of the provincial Liberals in the Oct. 9 provincial vote when, if polls are to be believed, they could surely use all the help they could get. “The one who is leading the provincial Liberals is Mr. (Gerry)
Reid,” Dion says, sitting down with The Independent for a one-on-one interview. “I will not campaign. It is not my role to campaign in a provincial election. I am a federal leader, a national leader, so I will not. “I am a Liberal, and I will work with the premier and the government (that) the people of Newfoundland and Labrador will choose. The See ‘I have always,” page 3 Related story, page 21
t may be silly, but I was relieved when I blew 0.0. Even though I was only being shown what an impaired driver faces when he or she is pulled over, even though I haven’t had a drink in days, even though I wouldn’t even consider drinking and driving, I was nervous when I blew into the breathalyser in the basement of the cop shop. What would also be silly, if it wasn’t so tragic, is people in this province still drink and drive. Despite the obvious dangers to themselves and others, graphic and hard-hitting advertising campaigns, fines and jail time, public embarrassment and the fact that their own and other’s lives can be unalterably ruined, people drink and drive. “It is a no-brainer. A $12 cab over killing someone?” Mothers Against Drunk Drivers activist Christine Care tells The Independent. She says it’s frustrating. “What does it take to get the public’s attention? What does it take to make them understand the seriousness of this, and the devastation, and the cost to society at large for something that is See “Do you know,” page 10
2 • INDEPENDENTNEWS
AUGUST 31, 2007
Smallwood: bad decisions, good intentions
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think Joe Smallwood may well be the most misunderstood person in our history. The last father of Confederation can still attract a lot of debate, even after all these years. Smallwood is the man single-handedly credited with bringing this province into the Canadian family and over the years the Confederation battle, the two plebiscite votes and the small margin of victory still raise disturbing questions. Was the vote rigged? Was Joey nothing more than a puppet of the British and Canadian governments? Was the turnover of Newfoundland to the Canadians a done deal long before Joey showed up? The answer to all of those questions might actually be yes but it seems moot in the 21st century to consider them. Our lives as members of the Canadian family are so intertwined these days it seems unlikely we’ll ever break those ties again. I know, I know, never say never, but looking at the political landscape today would not give any full-blown
RANDY SIMMS
Page 2 talk separatist in our province any real hope of reversing Smallwood’s victory from 1949. How was it Smallwood was able to win the vote? As a result of my recent vacation around the province, I too now have a theory on this and I’ve concluded Smallwood might be very misunderstood. A visit to some of our historic sites got me thinking about these matters. It all started when I visited the Ryan Premises in Bonavista. The Ryans were the merchant class we have all heard so much about from our parents and grandparents. The family was rich, beyond belief if you accept some of what the tour guides tell you, and the fishermen of that area were simply owned lock, stock and barrel by the merchant.
My visit to the accounts room was quite an experience. It was in this room fishermen, most unable to read or write, met their fate each year. It was here that they stood before the merchant and he told them if they had produced enough fish to pay their debt to him. I flipped through an old accounts book and reviewed the account for a man named Jacob. On the left side of the ledger was a list of all the things he had bought from the merchant. On the right side of the ledger was the value of his fish. Jacob had bought a lot of stuff from the merchant. The list included everything from flour to shoes. Jacob relied on the merchant for everything. There was no money, as such, so everything he possessed came from this place. In the middle of Jacob’s list was a notation for one small necklace. I forget the price though it was listed there. Given my flight of fancy I imagined myself as Jacob standing there in the middle of that large room waiting for the accounting person to tell me if my bill
was paid. I considered this fisherman, lacking the ability to read or write, lacking the power to stand up for himself, holding his hat in his hand and waiting for the merchant to give him the news, good or bad. I wondered if Jacob regretted buying the necklace, such a useless little bauble, bought perhaps in a moment of euphoria to recognize a birthday or an anniversary. It wouldn’t matter much now if the merchant devalued his fish. In my mind’s eye I saw Jacob standing there waiting and waiting while the figures were added up. I saw him listening quietly as paper was shuffled, as drawers were opened and closed; I heard the ambient sound of staff moving around behind the big counters. I watched as Jacob focused on the big office across the hall. I imagined him hoping against hope he would not have to go and see the man. Hoping against hope he would not have to beg for even more credit to get him through the year. On the right side of the ledger I noted
Jacob’s fish perfectly balanced what he owed. There was nothing extra, no profit for Jacob, but he was now free to start over and go into debt again. Joey never did say, “burn your boats” but I’m betting he thought it. I’m betting he cursed the power of the merchant and the helplessness of the lowly Newfoundlander. Joey may well have done a lot of things wrong, but I’m betting he did most of them for the right reasons. The failed industrialization strategy, his develop or die philosophy and his willingness to do deals with the devil if it provided jobs. I think Joey’s motivation was somewhat misunderstood and standing in that accounting room and feeling Jacob’s presence gave me that insight. Why was Joey able to win? I can’t really answer that but I’m betting Jacob was one of his many voters. Randy Simms is the host of VOCM’s Open-Line radio show. rsimms@nf.sympatico.ca
‘I would’ve shoved that deal down Ralph Goodale’s throat’ From page 1 longer a factor. A diabetic for 29 years, it pained him in 2005 — literally — to curtail his work as the MP for Avalon and Newfoundland’s representative in the federal cabinet. The disease also prevented Efford from running for re-election. He says it was also painful to absorb knocks from critics who accused him of falling down on the job. He says the truth is diabetes increasingly restricted his ability to travel and work. “I took an awful beating in many ways,” says Efford, who cut his teeth in provincial politics for almost 20 years before heading to Ottawa. He says an insulin pump has changed his life. “Oh, it has improved my health by 1,000 per cent. Before, I was taking four injections a day, always before I eat. It was a strict schedule, and with all the travel … “But with the pump it’s the opposite. You don’t do anything with the pump until after you eat. In fact, it’s the closest thing to having your own pancreas — when its working right — as it could possibly be. “Now, compared to then, what I’m able to do, it’s a major, major difference. When you get your energy back, you feel good about yourself and you feel good about doing things, too.” Efford has been working with the provincial Liberal party, primarily in an advisory role. He’s adamant he was never formally asked to take over the leadership and run this time around. “Oh, I’m asked almost daily to come back and get involved … as I travel around the province. I’ve been approached by many people to run in their districts. “Wherever I go, really, people suggest I should come back, I should run, I should get elected. But has the party formally asked me to do it? No.” Asked or not, how close did he come to running? “Really, I wasn’t that close this time around. A lot of people have been calling me constantly to get involved, but I haven’t come to the point where I’ve said, ‘Am I going to make a decision today? Yes or no? “I’m content right now to be dealing with a lot of personal matters, not the least of which is the flooding in my basement.” But he is, and will be involved. Efford makes it clear he is not done with politics. “If there’s anything I can do, with my experience in politics … from an advisory position for the party
after the election, toward rebuilding it and getting ready, I think that’s the role I should be playing in the immediate future.” Efford does regret not being more involved now, given recent events. “Oh, I wish I’d been in opposition when the breast cancer and radiology issues broke. I can tell you one thing: John Abbott (former deputy health minister) and George Tilley (former Eastern Health CEO) wouldn’t have worn that. “The premier and the minister of health (Ross Wiseman) should have worn that. That’s the minister’s responsibility,” says Efford, transforming from relaxed retiree to familiar feisty fighter. “They knew about that situation many, many months before it broke in the public. The minister of health is responsible for what goes on in his or her department. If I had been in opposition, both the premier and the minister would have answered a lot more questions than they did. “I spoke to (Liberal Leader Gerry Reid) about that, but unfortunately the party didn’t approach it the way I would have. I think that’s an opportunity that they missed. But after the election I’ll be working as much as I can with Gerry and whoever else is elected to share my advice …” Efford says he’s highly suspicious of Premier Danny Williams’ handling of the Hebron file. “The Williams government seems to be very popular right now, although I’m not sure he gained as much on Hebron as he thinks he did. “People should be very wary. There’s a certain amount of mistrust out there when he says the information (about the memorandum of understanding) won’t come out until after the election. I’m hearing that on the street every day … so many people are questioning this guy now.” For that, and other reasons, Efford says talk of a 48-seat sweep by the Tories is unrealistic. “I think the people of Newfoundland and Labrador realize that any government — and I was very strong on this when I campaigned in ’85 and every other election — needs a strong opposition. “And I think the voters are wise enough to make sure that happens. But I don’t think … I know there’s been very little done in and around rural Newfoundland by this government. And I think you’re going to see a vote increase for the Liberals there … particularly off the Avalon. “A lot of people are going to be surprised when they see the outcome of Election 2007.” Efford also believes Williams’ strong-arm
John Efford.
approach with Prime Minister Stephen Harper is destructive. “Lots of Newfoundlanders like to see our government bashing big mainland companies and Ottawa, but people in the know are stepping back and taking a good look at this. It’s one thing to be a bully … When you take on the prime minister on a personal basis, people start to question whether that’s the right way to go about it.” That said, Efford acknowledges he’s not above making mistakes himself. He has regrets, and he doesn’t dodge questions about his controversial role in the Atlantic Accord in 2005. Efford says his biggest regret is trusting the wrong people — specifically then-finance minister Ralph Goodale. “He told me very clearly we had the deal, this is the deal, and to go back to Newfoundland and sell it,” says Efford. “Of course, I trusted the man. He was the minister of Finance. You gotta trust him. And I remember saying to him, ‘If we go back and sell this, don’t cut the legs out from under us afterward. “Well, I came back, as everyone remembers — and it still echoes in my head — the deal is done, take it or leave it. “By d’Jesus, if I had my time back again I would’ve shoved that deal down Ralph Goodale’s throat!” Efford says he also wishes he knew Martin had spoken with Williams by phone on the morning of June 5, 2005, two weeks before the federal election. Martin told Williams he was committed to making sure the province was “the primary beneficiary of its resources.” Martin also said: “I have made it very clear that the proposal (Williams) has put forth is a proposal that we accept. “I only found out about it afterward, and I was his regional minister. If I had talked to him before he
Paul Daly/The Independent
talked to Williams, things would’ve played out quite differently. Because we still could’ve done a deal with Newfoundland without all the emotional escapades Danny put on. We could’ve had a better rapport and sharing of information with the people of the province.” In the end, Efford notes Martin did keep his promise — “$2 billion and all the revenues for X number of years afterward.” “We did deliver, but at the time the premier was so hell-bent on increasing his popularity at home, and his preying on the emotions of the people … He did it very, very well and I paid the price for it. “Danny Williams is not in it for the money, he’s in it for his own power.” Now, Efford’s closest friends wonder what he’s in it for. “A lot of them, when I talk about (politics), they say ‘you’re nuts, b’y. Leave it alone. Enjoy your life.’ But honestly? I can’t see anything that would stop me from a return. “This time around, I just didn’t make up my mind to do it.” So for now, Efford chooses to observe from the sidelines, sizing up the enemy, schmoozing with the electorate and plotting strategy. He’ll do most of that from his boat, sailing bay to bay, day to day, with his wife, Madonna. “She’s said many times she’d rather I didn’t get back into it. But whatever decision I make, she has told me that she and my kids would support me. “You know, I had a good career for 22 years. It’s just that most people forget all the good you do and accomplish and only remember the bad, like the Atlantic Accord stuff. “I think to be quite honest with everybody, after the number of years I was in politics. Being a diabetic for 29 years, and to be as healthy as I am today … I’m a pretty lucky person.” brian.callahan@theindependent.ca
AUGUST 31, 2007
INDEPENDENTNEWS • 3
Labour Day scoff The Independent’s outdoor columnist Paul Smith on the joys of late summer evenings and the aroma of jiggs dinner, cooked on a Coleman stove PAUL SMITH
The Rock
Outdoors
L Stéphane Dion
Paul Daly/The Independent
‘I have always been able to keep my word’ From page 1 necessity to serve the public interest should be stronger than your partisan preferences.” Dion met with Williams and Reid — separately — Aug. 28. “I understand why (Williams) feels betrayed by the prime minister of today. I fully agree with him that he did not keep his word, it’s clear. He chose not to extend the Atlantic Accord to the new equalization formula … it’s noir sur blanc, black on white, and it’s unacceptable. “When you have a breach of trust it’s not good for the federation, not good for the country.” Dion is aware many Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have long had an uneasy relationship with Ottawa, a skepticism that goes back much further than the current Atlantic Accord dispute. His philosophy on healing that rift is straightforward and absolute. “I have always been able to keep my word in politics,” he says. As a former minister of intergovernmental affairs — a position he held for eight years, “longer than any other Canadian since Confederation” — Dion says he’s well versed in the art of negotiating and resolving disputes between provinces, and between provinces and Ottawa. It was rarely an easy job, he admits. Dion was involved in negotiating the Voisey’s Bay agreement, as well as constitutional changes to eliminate denominational education and officially change the province’s name to Newfoundland and Labrador. He also worked with former premier Roger Grimes on a lower Churchill River deal. That agreement came close to being finalized but, in the end, was unsuccessful and controversial. Dion is also aware Newfoundland Labrador Hydro is investigating the possibility of laying undersea cables to
bypass Quebec and transmit lower Churchill power, potentially to the U.S. market. Calling the lower Churchill a “great project for the country at a time when we need cleaner energy, more security with our energy needs,” Dion says he’d much prefer to see Labrador power travel overland to Ontario and westward. “I would be pleased to be … a partner to see how I may reconcile the view between the two provinces, Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador, because it would be positive for everyone,” Dion says. “Without infringement — because this is a provincial jurisdiction — when two provinces have difficulties to do something in the national interest … it is not too demanding to ask the prime minister to sit with the premiers and reconcile those different views.” Dion nods quickly and firmly when asked if he believes the fishery is still the key to the future of Newfoundland and Labrador. He will not commit to the oftpromised custodial management of the nose and tail of the Grand Banks, but says he absolutely would invest more in fisheries science and research “because it is so needed.” He says the coast guard also needs further investment and strengthening. “The fishermen are asking for it very strongly,” he says. “They think there is a lot of abuse, especially internationally, and we need to act. I will work very closely with all the premiers of Atlantic Canada and B.C. and Quebec. I will be a very good partner. We’ll act together. “I’m certainly strong on the necessity to have a well-led, well-equipped, welltrained army, but I think the prime minister is overspending on this file, because he wants to be in Afghanistan forever, and it is his ideology. “But I think to invest in the coast guard is as important for Canadian security.” stephanie.porter@theindependent.ca
abour Day weekend is here again, proclaiming an end to summer camping and ushering in another autumn. Parks, gravel pits, and cabins will resound with horseshoes clinking, children playing, and all manners of music. The summer will end with a blast — the winter is always long — and heavy heads will slumber into work when this weekend’s done. Although the evenings are shorter and mornings cooler, several nights this past week were as good as any we had in July. Last Sunday the moon was full and the air warm and fragrant, a sit out in the yard in shorts and T-shirt kind of night. We don’t get a whole lot of those here in Newfoundland, so I always take full advantage. That’s what you get for choosing to live on a rock in the North Atlantic, but we love it. When we get a nice warm late summer night with the pungent scent of damp pine and spruce hanging in the still air, we are darn well very grateful. So Sunday night my daughter had a friend over and Rick, my hunting buddy and brother-in-law, dropped by for a chat. “Too nice a night not to have a fire out in the yard,” says I. “We might not get too many more nights like this one.” Rick and my wife were in full compliance and the two 18-year-old kids, both starting university next week, were easily coaxed with a promise of fireroasted hot dogs and Purity syrup. I chopped some splits and started the fire with a single match and a whittled dry stick — practising for those fall hunting trips just around the corner. A whittled stick is made by curling thin shavings with a sharp knife but leaving them attached to the stick. It’s the next best thing to birch rind for catching splits alight and kindling a campfire. Try it out this weekend. We sat around the fire, basking in the radiant warmth like humans have since ancient times. There’s something primal and earthy, yet comforting, about a campfire. It burns brightly, crackling and popping in stark contrast to the dark night, keeping whatever lurks in the shadows at bay. A full moon over the harbour and the light breeze whispering though our aspen tree set the mood for deep philosophical thought and discussion. Allison and Heather (the kids), who will
Paul Smith cooks up a scoff.
be roommates next week, ate their ketchup slobbered treats and talked about who was buying what for their dorm room. Goldie was concerned about getting the deck stained before the long weekend. Rick, always the deep thinker, suddenly asked me what we were going to cook up to christen our new cabin for Labour Day. Rick, Robert and I have just finished building a new hunting cabin and are planning our first overnight stay this Labour Day weekend. For sure and certain, our mini adventure will include a substantial feed and a swallow or two. And what better for the inaugural meal than jiggs dinner? It’s a safe bet we won’t be the only ones boiling up salt beef and cabbage this weekend. In cabins, tents and trailers, pots will be boiling and the heavy mouthwatering aroma of jigs dinner will percolate through the air. And nothing smells better than cooking outdoors on a Coleman stove. I can’t explain it or find adequate words to do it justice, that mingling of salt, cabbage and propane. It’s intoxicating, like the bouquet of a fine wine to the connoisseur of strong drink. I know it’s an acquired taste like many of the finer things in life — Cuban cigars, Scotch whisky, Irish beer, Russian caviar. Others may find the odour offensive but to us Newfoundlanders, an outdoor jiggs dinner is like the nectar of the gods. And, my God, does that smell ever make me thirsty for a cold beer. It’s piti-
Nicholas Langor/The Independent
ful. I’m like Pavlov’s dog, drooling for my reward — fresh garden vegetables, boiled with salted beef. In our modern age, there is really no practical reason to salt and cure beef. It’s a relic from a bygone age but we honour the tradition with enthusiasm. By Labour Day, blueberries are ripe and free for the picking on our barrens and hills. What better addition to a boiled dinner than a molasses blueberry duff? Mix the dry ingredients together in a bowl — flour, baking powder, sugar, butter, cooking molasses, and a little cinnamon or some cloves to taste. Add warm water, stir, and gently fold in the freshly picked berries. Grease a glass or metal bowl with butter and add the pasty duff mixture. When the potatoes are mounded in the pot, place the duff bowl atop the bubbling mass so the lip is above the boiling water. Some hardcore jiggs aficionados insist on using the traditional duff or pudding cloth. The duff mixture is wrapped in a cotton cloth and placed in the pot, again supported by the potatoes. Either way, the potatoes and duff should cook in about 20 minutes, just enough time to enjoy a brew and savour that salty aroma from the comfort of your favourite camp chair. Enjoy the weekend and play safe. Paul Smith is a freelance writer and outdoors enthusiast living in Spaniard’s Bay. His column appears weekly in The Independent’s sports section. flyfishtherock@hotmail.com
4 • INDEPENDENTNEWS
AUGUST 31, 2007
Hebron hangover Questions outnumber answers on Hebron MOU; Opposition leader cites fear factor By Ivan Morgan The Independent
W
ith government tight-lipped on details surrounding its memorandum of understanding (MOU) with a consortium of oil companies on developing Hebron, increased scrutiny is generating more and more questions. The Independent looked at several aspects of the proposed deal, asking experts in each area for their take on what is known about it — and what is not. Opposition Leader Gerry Reid says there is a “fear factor” at work, with many afraid to openly question government. “I’ve talked to a number of business people right around this province who don’t want to make comments publicly because they’re afraid the premier is vindictive, and that they will pay the price if they make a negative comment,” Reid tells The Independent. He says the owner of a company in central Newfoundland told him he took a call from a high profile cabinet minister who told him to “back off or else.” While he says everyone is happy with the Hebron talks back on, he wonders why the premier will not release more information. “Why is he hiding the details of the MOU? It’s only an MOU … When someone tells me I can’t see the details, that makes me more suspicious,” says Reid. “Forgive me if I don’t trust Danny Williams as much as some in the province. I’m not going to follow anybody blindly.”
MONEY Economist Wade Locke says government’s projection of $16 billion in revenues earned over the 25-year life of the project, based on oil priced at $70 a barrel with two per cent inflation, is optimistic. He says he is more comfortable with calculations based on oil priced in the $55-a-barrel range, putting projected revenues closer to $12 billion. While Locke agrees the royalty regime for the proposed deal is complex, he says concessions made by the Williams government on escalating royalties make sense based on “simple back-of-the-envelope calculations.” The provincial government has agreed to one per cent royalty until the consortium recoups its initial production costs, called simple payout. Choosing conservative numbers in his calculations, Locke says proposed production rates, projected oil prices and a $5 billion dollar price tag indicate the project should reach simple payout in two years. He agrees with critics that low oil prices add possible risk, but he says that would only extend delay of payout a year or two. EQUITY Reid says he has not seen any analysis showing an equity position is better than a royalty position. He says no
“With an equity stake there’s potential bad, but there is also potential good.” As a shareholder, says May, the province would have a say on what cost overruns were realized. Without that stake, he says, the province would have no involvement. May says the equity position is a good one for the province. “If it is good enough for the Norwegian government, and good enough for Norsk Hydro, then it is good enough for the people and the government of Newfoundland and Labrador.” Equity, says May, also opens the door for the province to grow. The Norwegians learned from their early experience in the oil industry, and he says Newfoundlanders and Labradorians can learn, too.
other province — including Alberta — has one. “Can the premier show me we’re going to make more money off an equity royalty regime than we could have made under a royalty regime,” he asks. “What are we giving up for equity?” Reid says with equity comes risk —
while there are no risks with royalties. Memorial university economist Doug May agrees an equity stake in Hebron can bring risks, and says commenting on the deal is difficult without knowing the details. But, says May, there are two sides to the equity coin.
JOBS Speaking for the Newfoundland and Labrador Employers’ Council, advisor Richard Alexander says while his organization sees the MOU as one of a number of positive signs for the province’s economy, “it’s no good to have these deals go through if we can’t match our labour supply to the labour demand that is going to happen.” It’s going to be a challenge for the province to find skilled workers to work on the project, says Alexander — but the, he adds, the shortage of skilled workers is a nationwide problem. Still he says he’s confident the national labour market can meet the demand, but “it is not the sort of thing you just turn on overnight, it has to be a long term process.” The council is already working under the assumption the Hebron deal, and other proposed big projects, will happen. “We can’t not do anything about this,” says Alexander. CONSTRUCTION Reid says there are many questions regarding Hebron construction that the government is not answering, including how much of the engineering work is going to be done outside of the province, and how much of the topsides — which Reid says are the most labour-intensive and costly portion of the platform — will be built in the province. Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association president Harry Bartlett was not available for comment, but issued a press release on the Hebron MOU, calling it “welcome news” which could bring many workers back to the province, but the lack of details concerns them. PRODUCTION “When you are dealing with the future, risk is a fact of life,” says May. Oil companies, he says, try to manage risk on big projects like Hebron: geological risk, political risk, financial risk and oil price risk by gathering as much information as possible. The lack of information on these risks troubles Reid. He says the equity stakes raise concerns about the province’s position regarding oil production, a problem the province does not face with its existing oil agreements. He says Hebron oil is a lower quality “heavy oil” that costs more to extract and refine, and could prove more costly. He says with equity the province shares in that risk. If there is an environmental disaster, says Reid, the province will be on the hook for five per cent of the clean up. ivan.morgan@theindependent.ca
AUGUST 31, 2007
‘Super delighted’ Hydro chairman says Williams’ government ‘lands the big tuna’ with Hebron MOU
INDEPENDENTNEWS • 5
The great rolling sphere named ‘Danny’
By Ivan Morgan The Independent
N
ewfoundland and Labrador Hydro chair Dean MacDonald says he’s bewildered by some of the criticism being levelled against the province’s MOU with the oil companies. He compares the Hebron agreement to the last potentially huge energy deal he was party to — former premier Roger Grimes’ ill-fated lower Churchill agreement. Back in 2002, MacDonald resigned his position as Hydro chair in protest of what he thought was a disastrous proposal. At that time, MacDonald says, his board was asked to sign a legal document that “would have sold the lower Churchill down the river.” The biggest single difference between the Hebron MOU and that lower Churchill deal, MacDonald continues, is the Grimes agreement was penned by government officials out of the premier’s office. He says Hydro management and board were “in the dark” until asked to sign the contract. “Which is a pretty tough way to go about it,” MacDonald tells The Independent. Dean MacDonald “This time negotiations on the whole project were led by our CEO,” he says, referring to Hydro CEO Ed Martin. MacDonald says the board was informed throughout the process, and there were frequent discussions regarding strategy and benefits. Another big difference, he says, is the math. The lower Churchill, says MacDonald, was “exceptionally poor for the province, just really, really bad — punitive.” On the other hand, MacDonald cannot heap enough praise on the Hebron MOU that was heralded by Williams on Aug. 22. Citing confidentiality, MacDonald says he cannot talk details, but adds he is “exceptionally comfortable” with the deal — “super delighted.” “I can’t find a superlative that would be strong enough in terms of the strength of the contract, the benefits to the province.” He says he’s surprised at some of the criticism of the deal from people in the province. The media has been filled for 18 months, says MacDonald, with complaints that no deal is in the offing and times were getting desperate. “And now we finally land the big tuna and now it’s ‘Jeez, you know, there’s gotta be something wrong.’ ” While he agrees, as critics have noted, the 4.9 per cent equity position brings risk, MacDonald says the risk is low, and the potential rewards are worth it. With equity will come greater benefits for the people of the province, he says. One of the bigger benefits, says MacDonald, will be building Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro into a highly profitable entity for the province, and an equity stake Hebron is a big step towards that goal. Hydro will soon “morph into the new energy corporation” says MacDonald, and he understands that the Hydro board will become the board of the new corporation. Does he want to be on the new board? “I’m happy to serve.” ivan.morgan@theindependent.ca
RAY GUY
A Poke In The Eye
T
here was a monstrous steel ball poised at the top of a grassy slope and the name of that ball, for some reason, was “Danny.” I knew this because a chorus of tiny voices like those of crickets chanted from the grass, “Danny, Danny, Danny!” Slowly, with a rumble, the giant ball began to roll. As it commenced rolling, tiny figures like fridge magnets flew from the grass and attached themselves to the big steel ball. But they were little people … Newfoundlanders, in fact, because the tiny men had their hands in their pants pockets and the tiny women had their arms folded across their bosoms. As it progressed down this long, grassy slope the great steel ball commenced to pick up speed. And as it did so the tiny fridge magnet people flew out of the grass faster and faster until the big ball was totally encrusted. Being heavier now, it gradually picked up more speed. “Danny, Danny, Danny!” cried the tiny magnet people still. “Wheeee! Where He leads us we will follow!” That grassy slope grew steeper and the great ball was no longer spherical due to the bulk of the human fridge magnets being picked up. It wobbled, it lurched, it no longer followed a straight path down the slope. But down it went all the same because gravity is always gravity. The grassy slope grew steeper. The tiny cries of joy grew louder. They mingled into a sound of jubilation like a little waterfall, like small waves on the sand, like a hatch of baby chicks down on the farm. The monstrous ball hit a few bumps causing the conglomeration of tiny fridge magnet people to squeal; the great majority chirped in delight but there came the odd tiny shriek: “Stop the goddam bus, I wanna get off.” Several of these fridge magnet folk did manage to loosen themselves. I wet my finger and picked one up from the grass. She was quite red in the face and suffering palpatations. The word was getting around in her quadrant of the great rolling globe called “Danny” she said, that this grassy slope ended in a 200-foot cliff. It might be true or it might be false but
Premier Danny Williams announces the Hebron MOU on Aug. 22.
there were some who didn’t want to stick around to find out. Trouble was, as it always is with fridge magnets, that those who wanted to leave the tour at this juncture found themselves stuck fast to fools who didn’t. Oh, the horror! The horror! I buried my face in the grass, unable to watch the spectacle any longer. The piercing cries of fear from the mass stuck to the great bounding steel ball grew louder and … There is a merciful God, for at that point I woke up in a lather, my face buried in a pillow and our damned kitten Skeet playing with my toes. It must have been a bit of bad shrimp in that chowder I had. Remind me not to go to sleep again for a week or so. But as we in the journalizing trade say, everything is grist for the mill. What I have to work on here is not exactly The Revelations of St. John the Devine, is it? And it is but a fraction of Alice making her way up that poor rabbit’s hole. Still, there must be something useful to our purpose. What can it all mean? I never felt more unqualified for a job, having once flunked out when I was in short pants and Granny tried to teach me to read tea leaves. I suppose the obvious explanation may be the best. A monstrous steel ball named Danny? I know of chaps who have a grandfather, a brother and a son named Danny but who first think of Premier Danny Williams when the word Danny is mentioned. This may or may not be decent or Christian but it’s the way things are today. Danny means Williams just as Mickey means Mouse.
Paul Daly/The Independent
We come now to the steel ball bit. Well, these are always popular in science fiction movies, flattening everything ahead of them. There’s the wrecking ball against which no structure can stand; there’s Dan’s substantial-looking head, which looks like it could plow through several sheets of standing gyprock without effort. As to the tiny Newfoundland people fridge magnets … ah ha! Obvious fodder for the sleeping subconscious. Connected with key chains and rings to recent unpleasantness in the Honourable House. Fridge magnets, attaching themselves firmly and without much philosophizing to steel balls … exactly like the great wave of Dannyidolatry sweeping the province today. So far, so good. But that 200-foot cliff which may or may not be at the end of that long grassy slope. Whatever can that mean … or the growing consternation among the tiny fridge magnet people as the great ball bounds onward? My best guess is that even among the vast Danny-Is-Our-Saviour brigades a few feet may be growing cool. If complicated notions of democracy and good governance don’t trouble most of us, perhaps some of granny’s old sayings pop up to save us from ourselves: two heads are better than one; don’t put all your eggs in one basket; many hands make light work; Jack is as good as his master; who made you the king of the world? And there’s always the one about the Pied Piper.
6 • INDEPENDENTNEWS
AUGUST 31, 2007
Spray what? Bill Murray
Ed Byrne
Jim Walsh
Randy Collins
Wally Andersen
Percy Barrett maintains innocence; five now charged in House of Assembly scandal By Brian Callahan The Independent
M
aybe it’s his degree in psychology that’s kept Percy Barrett grounded since he was implicated in the House of Assembly spending scandal last year. That, and the support of his family — his wife and two grown children — and longtime constituents. “I wouldn’t have survived without them,” Barrett, 59, tells The Independent. “I’ve been updated on things … and everything looks good. From what I know, I would say I’ll hear something one way or another within the next week for sure.” Barrett is the only one of the six people named not to be charged thus far, and he’s made it clear he doesn’t expect to be. He’s also the only one of the six not to hire a lawyer. “Well, I was always convinced I did nothing wrong, and so far no one has shown me anything differently,” says the Liberal MHA who has represented the district of Bellevue
since 1989 but will not run again. “I was ready to retire anyway.” Barrett says the fact some of the claims identified in the audits have been proven to be legitimate only bolsters his claim of innocence. He says he’ll repay any outstanding balance, but it remains to be seen if that’ll satisfy the Special Prosecutions division of the Department of Justice. Meantime, it’s believed Bill Murray, the civil servant at the centre of the spending scandal, was at a relative’s home when police say they “located” him about 3 a.m. Sunday morning, Aug. 26. He had been reported missing by his family 36 hours earlier. It’s also believed Murray, who was suspended last summer as director of financial operations at the legislature, is back at the Waterford Hospital where he was admitted shortly after the scandal broke last June. Murray, 53, was formally charged this week along with two other key figures — former Tory government
“I was ready to retire anyway.” Percy Barrett house leader Ed Byrne, and Randy Collins, former NDP MHA for Labrador West who resigned from the House in February. Murray faces one count each of fraud over $5,000, breach of trust and uttering forged documents, as well as three counts of fraud against the government. Byrne, 44, who was also turfed from government last June, has been charged with a count each of fraud over $5,000, uttering forged documents and breach of trust. Collins, 55, faces the same charges as Byrne, as well as fraud against the government. Wally Andersen, who was already retiring as Liberal MHA for Torngat
Mountains, faces the same charges as Byrne, while Jim Walsh, a former Liberal cabinet minister, faces a charge of fraud against government, fraud over $5,000 and breach of trust. Walsh was charged Aug. 24 while Andersen got the word in July. In total, Noseworthy said those named received about $1.6 million more than they were entitled to from their constituency allowances. Police say they are still investigating. Anderson is due in court Sept. 18, Murray on Oct. 16, Walsh on Oct. 23, Byrne, Oct. 25, Collins on Oct. 30. As for Barrett, after almost 20 years in elected politics, he plans to relax and “do very little” in retirement, for now. He’s leaning toward volunteer work with the Association for Community Living and the Canadian Mental Health Association, which he was involved with before politics. brian.callahan@theindependent.ca
Northern Peninsula residents claim insect control a health hazard; province says harmless By Mandy Cook The Independent
M
elvin Coombs says he didn’t open his campground at Three Mile Lake this summer because after the province sprayed the area with an insect-control substance, swimmers came down with a skin condition and all the fish in the pond floated to the surface. He says he’s had the water tested and the results pointed to swimmer’s itch, a patchy red skin rash caused by parasites from aquatic birds, but says he and many other locals have been swimming in the area for years and have never had a problem. He was so concerned about possible lawsuits, he turned down “a lot” of inquiries from would-be campers and several student jobs were lost. Liberal candidate for the district of St. Barbe, Jim Bennett, sent a letter to the provincial government on May 29 regarding the spraying, but says he has yet to receive a response. The area in question, a 50-by-34 kilometre section of land between Route 430 and the Roddickton access road, is the site of private and commercial cabins. Residents fear the spray could be toxic, he says. “A lot of the older people are saying that the increased cancer rates are because of the chemical spray, and they say there’s no way they will eat berries or rabbits or moose killed in that area because the water is coming into the vegetation and there are areas of vegetation they say have been killed by the spray and haven’t come back,” he explains. Natural Resources Minister Kathy Dunderdale says her department has no record of Bennett’s letter. She says all information regarding the province’s forest inspection control and vegetation management program is available on the government website. In an effort to prevent the spread of hemlock looper, a moth which feeds on the province’s tree species in its larval stage, insect growth regulator Mimic and naturally occurring bacterium B.t.k. is sprayed on forested areas. B.t.k. has been used in the province since 1977 and Mimic was introduced for the first time this year in the treatment of 5,000 hectares of forest. “Every piece of evidence we have — and it is extensive — the testing done here in Canada and the U.S. … has been approved by researchers at the university and government level and private testing facilities,” she says. Dunderdale says public notices regarding the issue are posted in communities and published in west coast newspapers. “If people are aware of the spraying, one would think they’re aware of these other pieces (of information) as well,” she says. Tom Chapman, an assistant biology professor at Memorial University, says B.t.k. kills insects by being eaten by grubs and doesn’t persist in the environment. “It’s not toxic to humans .… it’s evolved to kill insects and is naturally in the environment as well.” mandy.cook@theindependent.ca
AUGUST 31, 2007
INDEPENDENTNEWS • 7
Pre-election spending counts toward total for campaign By Brian Callahan The Independent
T
here’s nothing wrong with sledgehammering signs in the ground to promote yourself before an election is called, an electoral official says. But if you do become a candidate, be prepared to count the cost of those signs as part of your election expenses, once the official campaign begins. Retroactively or not. “Anything related to the election is considered an expense, even if it’s done prior to the election,” Chief Electoral Officer Paul Reynolds tells The Independent. He won’t speak to specific examples, but acknowledges at least one potential candidate has erected signs in the race for nomination. “A person can use signs now for nomination purposes — the act doesn’t apply to nomination races or leadership bids. We have no jurisdiction there,” he says. “But if that person is successful, and carries those same signs forward and
uses them in the campaign itself, then he has to declare those expenses. It must be calculated as part of his election expenses.” What’s not permitted is advertising or solicitation through the electronic media — newspapers, radio, television, and so on. A potential candidate could run an ad simply identifying an office and contact information, and that would be counted as an eventual election expense. But campaigning in mainstream media is a no-no until the writ is dropped. Questions have been raised as to whether some candidates might get a head-start on others, since the provincial election date — Oct. 9 — is set by law. Reynolds says that doesn’t change anything. The same caps on allowances and spending still apply and, as mentioned, any money spent legally on the campaign before Premier Danny Williams visits Lt.-Gov. Ed Roberts must be included. As spelled out in The Independent one week ago, each candidate or party can spend $3.83 per voter. In 2003, there were 383,783 eligible voters, putting the
limit at $1.4 million per party. By contrast, a candidate in a district with 11,000 voters is capped at $42,000. This election’s limits will be set the day the writ is dropped, or the official campaign begins. The latest that can be is Sept. 17. David Crosbie, who’s seeking the Tory nomination in St. John’s East, has had signs posted for weeks. If he should win the nod, and uses those signs during the election, those costs must be included in his total election allowance. In fact, a candidate could post signs six months before the election if they so choose, “but there’s always the risk they’d be damaged,” Reynolds says. In short, the Elections Act doesn’t recognize such signs as advertising. “Once again, the act says any expense directly related to the campaign, even if it was incurred prior to the campaign, must be reported. “Of course, if you do spend money on all those signs, and you’re not successful in the nomination, you’re out of pocket.” brian.callahan@theindependent.ca
Sick in the States
Local man wants health benefits while working in U.S.; MCP doesn’t cover By Mandy Cook The Independent
A
lthough it is the source of his livelihood, traditional musician and St. John’s resident Jim Joyce is worried his 10-month per year contract is going to be a hazard to his health. Since 2003, Joyce has been what he says is an ambassador to this province as an Irish, Scottish and Newfoundland musician fiddling his way into the hearts of Naples, Florida residents. But health legislation states Newfoundlanders and Labradorians must spend a total of four months a year in the province to be eligible for health benefits under the provincial medicare program, MCP. Joyce is worried about what might go wrong while he’s working in the Sunshine State. “I’ve never been to the doctor,” he says. “The only reason I ask to have out-of- province coverage is in case some flukish, freakish accident, if someone comes across the street and knocks me out and I wake up in a hospital two weeks later with a milliondollar bill. I can’t handle that kind of luck. No one can.” Joyce says he pays all his taxes — income and property, as he maintains a residence in the capital city — in the province. He’s spent the last six weeks playing music in an Irish bar in downtown St. John’s and is leaving in a week’s time to honour his next 10-month commitment. He says he’s contacted his MHA Tom Osborne, who supports his cause, and he’s been urged to write an appeal but is discouraged because the “wheels are grinding so slowly. “I know how bureaucracy works … basically I have no coverage. If I walk out in the street today and I get hit by a car … basically they’re putting me in the situation of an uninsured person in the States.” Health Minister Ross Wiseman says there is no legislation between Canada and the U.S. to provide an exchange of health services to each others’ citizens. Long-term vacationers such as
Jim Joyce
O’MARA REMEMBERED
Paul Daly/The Independent
Snowbirds or university students must purchase private healthcare policies to insure themselves while out of the country. Joyce says he became aware of his lack of coverage when a bill from his family doctor — for his yearly checkup — arrived at his house. It struck him as a sour note. “It was kind of like getting a bureaucratic slap in the face to come home, to be a promoter of the province and then come home to find they’ve cut you off from MCP.” The Department of Health has re-registered 496,000 Newfoundlanders and Labradorians in its new MCP program out of a provincial total of 503,000, or 99 per cent. Wiseman says 85,000 cardholders have been removed from the system. The outdated cardholders were determined to be permanently living outside Newfoundland and Labrador and therefore not entitled to benefits, saving the provincial economy an estimated $1.5 million dollars. mandy.cook@theindependent.ca
Former CBC Radio broadcaster and director John O’Mara died Aug. 26 in a St. John’s hospital after a brief illness. He was 63. O’Mara was a historian, author, thespian and tenacious volunteer. Fr. Ray Earle, at the Aug. 29 funeral at the Basilica of St. John the Baptist, described O’Mara as a celebrity “who did more behind the scenes than any of us will ever know.” In the church program, O’Mara’s wife, Dianne, noted the suddenness of her husband’s passing: “John and I could never have believed that life would take such a drastic turn. We had a short time to prepare and reflect on our lives together. Our reflections were filled with love and happy memories.” Submitted photo
AUGUST 31, 2007
8 • INDEPENDENTNEWS
Bobcats and the Bay Y
ou don’t see snackbars around the Bay like you used to. Hangouts, some people called them, or pool halls, with creative names above the front doors like L. and D. Snackbar, christened after the Linda and Dave, in this particular case, who owned the establishment. There were at least five snackbars alone in the outport of my youth. As one closed, another would open. The L. and D. was preceded by the B. and L. (Bernie and Loretta), and followed by the M. and S. (Mike and Sharon). Half the adults in town had initials after their names to signify their one-time snackbar ownership, although there was no real money or title in it. The 40-odd-year-old, hairy-knuckled Dave who sold cigarettes by the each from behind the wooden counter was known simply as Big Dave (to differentiate from his son, Little Dave); there were no misters inside the walls of the D. and L. The Bionic Man pin-ball machine fought a losing audio battle with the Bat out of Hell rising from the jukebox, but the most precious of sounds was the breaking of pool balls. The pool table was the big money maker. Games were usually Bank 8, not
RYAN CLEARY
Fighting Newfoundlander straight, to stretch out the 25-cent experience. Dave’s meagre profit was eaten up by constant repairs to the gyprock. Pool-stick punctures were inevitable with only a couple of feet of space surrounding the lone table from the walls in the squat, one-room snackbar. The real action was most often outside the door, where teenaged boys revved their parents’ wood-paneled station wagons and lime-green Chevettes. Outside of an occasional dance at the local curling club or Lion’s Den there wasn’t much to do on a summer night besides park outside the snackbar. On a good night a crowd of girls might show up from Carbonear, where all the pretty girls came from, although the boys from Carbonear were guaranteed to follow, which meant a rise in snackbar tensions and an ever exciting ghost car drive-by. I was lucky enough to have my own car in those wild and free ’80s Bay days
— a 1978 Bobcat, first cousin of the more famous Pinto. My mother was with me when I counted out 11 $100 bills into the outstretched palm of a lady from Cupids; Dad being away at work on the mainland most of the year. Looking back, Mom didn’t say a word of protest about the car’s two-tone chemistry (orange body, white roof), the only thing she was interested in was me not driving her wood-paneled station wagon into the ground (or ditch — which it has taken me 25 years to come clean on). I certainly didn’t mind the Creamsicle colours, the car was mine. Mine. A friend told me once the Bobcat looked like a Porsche from behind and in the right foggy light, which was good enough for me. There was never enough money for gas, even with six or seven guys chipping in a buck a piece to start the night. Mom used to tell the story of how she would get up early on Saturday mornings and go for a drive just to see how close to home I made it before running out of gas. A few affectionate strokes to the dashboard were always good for an extra kilometre or two, as was putting the Bobcat in neutral at the top of each and every hill.
There was always Dad’s outport motor tank to count on in the event of a severe cash crunch, although the mixture of gas and oil upset the poor Bobcat’s stomach to the point she belched and spat black spit from one end of the shore to the other. I’ve gone for several long drives in recent weeks around the Bay — from Clarenville to Cape Bonavista, and across Trinity Bay from Dildo to Grates Cove — and I didn’t come across a single snackbar. I passed countless schools and softball fields (abandoned more often than not), but there wasn’t a single hangout to be seen. There are young kids around, no doubt, what with the scattered backyard swimming pool and trampoline, but not much sign of teenager life. (There is presence, mind you, in the form of the countless Pink, White and Green flags that fly along the coast). What caught me about the Bonavista Peninsula, in places like Trinity, Port Union and Bonavista itself, was how the spic and span saltbox communities seem to have reverted back in time. Men and women parade around in period costume, giving foreign tourists a taste of Newfoundland of old, using
their precious pasts to tide them over to the future. People there have found a way to survive, which is fabulous and quaint, but a wee bit sad. They’re living almost solely off the past. The future direction is far from clear. The fish plant in the Town of Bonavista was closed and I asked a summer student whether it was temporary or permanent. She didn’t know, or seem to care one way or the other. What caught me about the drive across the Bay from Dildo to Grates Cove, besides the stunning scenery, was the distinct smell of the Town of Old Perlican. I didn’t know what it was at first, the pungent stench, a scent I hadn’t come across in more than 800 kilometres of wandering. It took me a second to grasp what it was, but then I had it: it was the smell of fish. A lady at the nearby shop told me the plant had been processing crab, shrimp, welk and mackerel. Young men in hard hats were busy outside the plant; the parking lot was full of the late-model trucks and cars of the workers inside. The sounds were of folklifts and seagulls. There’s life around the Bay yet. ryan.cleary@theindependent.ca
YOUR VOICE
St. John’s airport
Paul Daly/The Independent
Improving air links should be a priority Dear editor, Regretfully, St. John’s again finds itself without a year-round direct air link to the British Isles. Oddly, some in the media, such as the president of the Board of Trade writing an Independent column, seemed to put Astraeus’ departure down to Newfoundlanders’ reluctance to change. But Newfoundlanders are no different from consumers elsewhere; if a good product or service is available, we’ll use it. (The notion, implied elsewhere in the Independent, that we should “support” business is the wrong way around — and I say this as a business owner.) While the Astraeus experience was reportedly a good one for some travelers, it seems the company did not do the necessary groundwork before advertising the new service last winter. I tried twice to book with Astraeus, both times unsuccessfully. The first time I was told the flights were full. The other time the travel agent I called told me I’d have to e-mail my request to her and she would send it on to Astraeus, who would get back to me, etc. The process was unnecessarily cumbersome and the agent lacked precise information on scheduling and available flights. Further, Astraeus flights were not available through www.travelocity.ca. There was also a problem on the British side. On a recent trip to England, I scanned the travel sections of three or four newspapers a day and never once saw an ad for Astraeus. No one there seemed to know about the flights to St. John’s. No wonder so few Britons came to St. John’s on Astraeus. It’s also erroneous to say we have no other choice but to fly to Europe
through Halifax with Air Canada. Flights to just about anywhere are available via Newark, linked to St. John’s daily by Continental. At times, going to Europe this way is cheaper than taking the Air Canada milk run. (It would be far better, of course, to have our own direct flight.) Meanwhile the St. John’s International Airport Authority says there are no plans to even search for a replacement for Astraeus. Statements from our airport authority are worrying. The CEO told the Independent that efforts would concentrate on Canadian destinations now. He mentioned that Toronto and Halifax are the most popular flights. Where’s the analysis here? These flights are well used at least partly because there are so few flights to anywhere else, forcing travelers to go through Toronto and Halifax. I’ve taken numerous flights to Toronto and Halifax but, more often than not, I’m on my way to somewhere else — Ottawa, Quebec City, Winnipeg, Milwaukee, points in Mexico, etc. Never once has St. John’s Airport asked for my final destination. Contrast with this with Halifax, where I have been surveyed several times. Without good research and forwardthinking leadership, our isolation will only increase. This is bad for tourism but it is getting harder to do any kind of business from here. Improving air links to Britain and elsewhere should be a priority not only for the airport but also for the province’s Departments of Business, and Innovation, Trade, and Rural Development. Maura Hanrahan Paul Butler St. John’s
He rolled up his sleeves and dug right in Dear editor, I had the privilege of having John O’Mara for my supervisor after he was appointed to the position of director of communications for CBC in Newfoundland. John was a serious guy in everything he approached. But he had a great sense of humor that always lightened the tension surrounding the projects we were involved in. He was a friend to everyone, a tireless worker, terrific manager, wonderful behind the mike and on camera, a meticulous dresser, a Christian who delighted in offering himself to various community groups as a volunteer extraordinaire. I witnessed first-hand and experienced often John’s abilities to manage a highly sophisticated public relations operation. His ability to plan, organize and control major projects relating to promotion, publicity, advertising and community affairs for the CBC was second to none. Shortly after his appointment to the public relations director position, he joined our department and was thrust head long into near chaos as we had been without a supervisor for sometime and we were at the starting blocks to launch CBNT’s new fall and winter programming.
We decided to tackle the project head on and would work through the weekend to meet his goals and implement the plan laid down by the Regional Director for the province. I still have the image of John arriving at the office on a Saturday morning in a sport shirt. Rolling up his sleeves he said to us, “now let’s see what we can do.” He brought a sense of calm to the project and slowly and surely started to turn out press releases, print ads, on air promotional suggestions and ideas for those valuable audience relations future plans. It was one of the best fall launch projects I ever worked on. As promoters we were invited to attending the weekend meetings of the Radio and Television News Directors Association in Montreal. John and other directors of communication were invited to address a special meeting of those directly involved in publicizing news and current affairs in the regions. When John spoke you could hear a pin drop. He was eloquent, selfassured and most of all knowledgeable about the Newfoundland and Labrador region of the CBC. He brought his own colourful style to his address and took the opportunity to
tell the gathering a lot about his home province and at the end invited them all to come our and see for themselves. I was proud of him. Since John’s untimely death at such a young age, just about everything has been said about this incredible man, his love for his wife and his passion for the town he grew up in. A town he adored. As I looked around at the crowds at the Basilica during his funeral Mass I wondered to myself, how could one man have reached out and touched so many? Listening to the tributes and hearing friends recall their fondest memories of John I realized just how far John had gone in his short but varied career. The qualities and leadership skills I talked about in this tribute may have been reflections of my dealings with him, but I walked out of the church realizing these were only the tip of the iceberg applied to John F. O’Mara. John is already missed by friends and acquaintances too many to count, and he is sorely missed by his devoted wife and best friend Dianne who I extend my deepest sympathy. Bill Westcott Clarke’s Beach
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On the way to ‘totally totalitarian’ Dear editor. Paul Wilson’s recent letter (‘Why the big (Memorial/Grenfell) fuss?’Aug. 24 edition) said establishing and financing the education system is a proper role of government. Not so. One thing education must do is teach us how to establish and maintain, and when necessary, correct our own government. If government teaches us how to respond to being governed, we are caught in a vicious circle at least as vicious as it is circular. Educating children is the proper role of parents. If parents now aren’t equipped or qualified to do that, that just shows how bad the current education system must be — or how effi-
ciently the government is intentionally keeping us from being educated to do what we ought, rather than what government wants us to do. Running the education system is the worst, but not the only, instance of government providing services it ought only to regulate the people’s providing for themselves. Then, the people would really be governing themselves, with the apparatus of the state as their own instrument. With government regulating the provision of services which government itself provides, it is only government that governs itself, and it also governs the people in the interest of those in government.
Since educating children is parents’ duty, the state should only punish parents who are derelict in that duty, in so far as parents generally agree on what constitutes such dereliction. That would be democratic self-government. If looking after the health of everybody else is everybody’s duty, then the state ought only to punish us when we fail to carry out that duty. When it performs our duties for us instead of only punishing us for criminal omission, government encourages us to neglect our duties. Thus it weakens its people and heaps up power to itself on the way to becoming totally totalitarian. Colin Burke
AUGUST 31, 2007
INDEPENDENTNEWS • 9
Summit on the rock I
t’s a no-brainer, really. Among all the other economic benefits that seem to suddenly be raining down on us, we should offer Newfoundland or Labrador as a summit site for world leaders to meet. It’s a win-win proposition. Recently the heads of the three North American countries — the United States, Canada, and Mexico met in Montebello, a Quebec resort. They had a hell of a time with protesters, ending up surrounded by security fencing, armed guards, patrol dogs and all kinds of mean, nasty, ugly stuff designed to keep out these angry folk. Holed up in a hotel is not a great optic. The protesters came from all over, taking trains, planes and cars and buses in their thousands to howl their outrage over the agreements being made inside. I’d like to see them get to Twillingate. I don’t think the leaders really care where they meet. They fly in, they are choppered to and from the event, treated really well, and pretty much stay in
IVAN MORGAN
Rant & Reason a bubble. Does it matter where the bubble is? Fortune? Burin? St. Anthony? They’re very busy. A little whale watching, a little golf in the fog, a lobster boil, a few icebergs: what’s to hate? No doubt the wealthier protesters would come, but that’s my point — drawing in the bucks. Leaders, aides, security personnel, the world media, protesters … it’s good for the economy, good for the tourism industry of whatever area they decide to converge on. Accommodating the protesters could be big money for this province. Entrepreneurs will be trucking in the tofu and the alfalfa by the ton, making top dollar. There won’t be a lot of hotel space, as I would guess the leaders’ people
and security forces would pre-book. Protesters can spend a few nights sleeping out in that environment they’re always howling about saving. I suspect Mexican President Calderon would be particularly welcome in our province, as we Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are in solidarity with the people of Mexico, or at least we should be, given our shared mistreatment at the hands of North Americans. Security would be a breeze in rural Newfoundland. You cannot drive a strange car through any cove in this place without setting off phones along the way. Armed guards? G’way. All you need is Nan in the window. Then there are the issues themselves. Protester and politician alike might give pause were they to spend time in rural Newfoundland. Not St. John’s. In St. John’s are the familiar trappings of North American life — strip malls, theatres, food outlets and the like. Not so rural Newfoundland. It still has a seductive, almost insidious
charm. I like the visual of the world’s leaders walking Bellevue beach, combing for washed up treasures, perhaps poking at a dead thing with a stick while they sort out the world’s problems. Or hiking Gros Morne? Canoeing Red Indian Lake (that would have to be renamed, to preserve people’s sensibilities. Maybe Big Bucks Lake)? I see Bush, Sarkozy, Brown, Harper and others sitting on an overturned trap skiff, arguing the world’s future in the tall cool grass of a little forgotten cove. What an image to reflect the seriousness of the future of the world’s natural resources. How about three days on a boat up the Labrador coast to Nain? They’d never be the same. I think this place could be the one spot where real peace and security could be hammered out. It’s happened before. During the Second World War, American President Franklin Roosevelt and English Prime Minister Winston Churchill signed the Atlantic Charter — the Allies’ vision for the
world after the war — on a destroyer in Placentia Bay. That was some vision. Look at us now. Perhaps a summit in this province would open protesters’ eyes, maybe for the first time, to the fact the leaders and their entourages are people, not cartoon parodies of evil. The leaders in turn, with their lungs full of fresh salt sea air, sitting looking out over the sea in our lovely evening light, may for the first time really hear the cries of the protesters. Maybe both sides, far from the maddening crowd, can find precious common ground, for all our sakes. And we Newfoundlanders and Labradorians? We would be in the back room, amid the rattle of money-counting machines and the clatter of calculators, doing what our ancestors have been trying to do for centuries: trying to wring a living from this goddamn place. Where once they stood, we stand. ivan.morgan@theindependent.ca
YOURVOICE Metrobus: looking for feedback Dear editor, The process of planning a new route system for St. John’s began a year prior to its introduction on June 25. Throughout the year, input was solicited from the public about what they would like to see changed about our service. To accomplish this, we set up a dedicated phone line, an email address and a feedback form that was available online, as well as a paper version onboard our buses and printed in local newspapers. Several committees were established specifically to provide guidance as we planned out changes. Every employee at Metrobus was provided the opportunity to offer feedback and suggestions through a number of forums such as information sessions held throughout the year that ultimately influenced the final route design. The new route system was introduced in June to purposely provide further opportunity for our customers to give us feedback over the summer
months so that we can make changes and adjustments prior to the return to full service in September. Every day we are receiving feedback by phone, e-mail and from our drivers who have face-to-face interactions with our customers. As a result, some adjustments have already been made to our routes and schedules based on the valuable feedback we have received and more improvements will be introduced with our fall schedule effective Sept. 3. We remind our customers we are currently on our reduced summer schedule. We encourage anyone who would like to provide comments or information to contact us at 722-9400 or visit our website at metrobus.com. Constructive feedback is vital as the whole purpose of the redesign is to improve service and reduce travel time for our customers throughout the city. Judy Powell General Manager Metrobus
Aurora a ‘good neighbour’ Dear editor, Your brief mention of Aurora Energy Resources (Uranium setback, Aug. 24 edition) contained some important inaccuracies. The Nunatsiavut government must complete a land use policy before mine construction can begin, not a “land claim” as your caption asserts. As well, there is no “uranium setback” as your headline suggests. As per the regulatory process, extensive community review is expected. We are well aware of the comprehensive regulatory process that must be completed before a licence for mine construction is granted. Registering the project is the first step in a long regulatory and licensing process. We will be working very hard to successfully meet the regulatory requirements and we look forward to working with the people of coastal Labrador in this process. That is why Aurora holds regular public meetings and has offices in Postville and
Makkovik which are staffed with community relations personnel. It’s important for Aurora to be considered good neighbours in the communities in which we operate. Last year approximately 50 per cent of Aurora employees were from coastal Labrador. In addition, Aurora procures materials and services locally whenever possible, including fuel, hardware, food and air services (both fixed-wing and helicopter). Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions related to Aurora’s work activities in Labrador. I would also welcome you to contact Aurora to learn more of the company’s plans and direction for a more formal story than what’s provided by this short snapshot. Andrea Marshall Manager, Government Relations and Public Affairs, Aurora Energy Resources St. John’s
‘Polluted something awful’ Dear editor, We need more done to protect our salmon fishery, including a few more game wardens on the rivers to catch poachers. A lot of our salmon rivers are polluted something awful. Salmon just won’t enter them to spawn. Our children used to swim in these rivers but now that they are polluted, the children break out in sores and hives. Doctors say the
cause is polluted water. Give man enough time and everything will end up that way if nothing is done about it. Our bakeapple areas are being destroyed by people on ATVs, etc. There are lots of places where garbage is being dumped. It’s time someone done something about it. Ernest S. Parsons, St. John’s
Elizabeth Penashue holds a photo of herself as a young woman next to Churchill Falls.
Paul Daly/The Independent
See Churchill for more than hydro Dear editor, It’s that time of year again when I start my canoe trip from Churchill Falls to Goose Bay. This is the 11th year I have been doing this. Time and time again I have demonstrated that I am telling the government I am dead set against any damming of the Churchill River. I think it is time we get recognition. We should be listened to and be heard because this is a very strong message. I thought there would be a change in how we see the Churchill River. We should see not just hydropower, but
the beauty of the land and the heritage it holds for us Innu people. Innu people have been using that river for thousands and thousands of years. It was the main travel route. If this is dammed, everything will be under water, there will be mercury poisoning and portages, animals and forests will be lost. What is it we really want? Temporary jobs? But we lose our land, forests, and different species of land animals. I am tired of how our leaders are working. They give no information at
all to the Innu public. Our Innu leaders have businesses set up personally. What about the two communities? We don’t know what’s going on. I am very certain, because this is in our land claim area, it is up to the Innu whether it goes ahead. It is our selfdetermined right and our legal right and we are the only aboriginal group that has claim. I for one will never say yes if we are not consulted by the government and our leadership. Elizabeth Penashue Sheshatshiu
‘I know we are a compassionate people’ Dear editor, I have received a number of supportive e-mails from local citizens commenting on my letter regarding the sexual abuse charges laid in our town and elsewhere. I also received a letter from a couple that has caused me to clarify the intent of my first letter. First, let me apologize for my bombastic style and the imagery I used to make a point. It was not appropriate for such a sensitive issue. Then let me next state this fact very clearly. I no more condone a child molester’s actions than any of my readers. In fact, I abhor them. When I
advocated support for the accused, I did not mean moral support for his alleged actions; I meant moral support to bring about some change in such a person that would be beneficial to our society. I support any kind of treatment that will help such a person realize the immorality and unfairness of his acts so that he may regain a sense of selfdecency and respect for his fellow human beings. The couple above asked why I expressed concern for the accused and his family, but did not ask for support for the affected families and their children.
The answer to that is very simple. I knew without any doubt the support for the affected families and the victims was a given. I never for a moment thought otherwise. Why? Because I know we are a compassionate people and would readily and spontaneously offer full support to the victims and their families At this time I offer my sympathy to all those children and their families affected by such crimes. Believe me, I know the anguish such evil can cause the victims and their families. Aubrey Smith Grand Falls-Windsor
AUGUST 31, 2007
10 • INDEPENDENTNEWS
AUGUST 31, 2007
INDEPENDENTNEWS • 11
IN CAMERA
‘Do you know what you are doing to me?’
Morgan is placed in the back of the police cruiser.
Sgt. Paul Murphy asks Ivan Morgan for licence, registration and insurance.
Murphy and Const. Paul Didham frisk Morgan after asking him to get out of his car.
From page 1 100 per cent totally preventable?” Constable Paul Didham and Sergeant Paul Murphy, two Royal Newfoundland Constabulary officers who work the traffic detail, walk me through the procedure a suspected drunk driver would face. I was pulled over, frisked, put in the back of a squad car, taken to the police station and processed. It’s no party. The harsh fluorescents, white cinderblock walls, tile floors and simple furniture set an air of cold reality. And I was stone cold sober. The RNC and the RCMP will be out in force this Labour Day weekend, as they always are, trying to protect the rest of us from the few who decide to drive boats, planes, ATVs and espe-
Morgan is taken to Fort Townsend for a breath sample.
This week photographer Nick Langor photographs senior writer Ivan Morgan as he experiences a mock impaired driving charge at the hands of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary. Drinking and driving is still a serious problem in Newfoundland and Labrador, and a chorus of frustration rises from those who battle it. cially cars and trucks after drinking too much alcohol. RCMP Sgt. Andy Landers, acting district commander for the province, says impaired driving is still a major contributor in serious injuries and death in the province. People get drunk and take chances.
“The risk level that some people seem willing to accept is beyond what many of the rest of us would even consider on our worst day,” says Landers. He says many people are just not getting the message. RCMP statistics for impaired driving are stark.
For crashes in this province alone, in 2006, 14 of 25 fatalities involved an impaired driver. In 2007 so far, three of 14 fatalities involved an impaired driver, and 10 serious injuries already this year have involved an impaired driver. “I don’t know if it is not being internalized or if people just kinda think ‘Well I’ve only had a couple of drinks and its not going to hurt me to drive’ and then they go out and get themselves in trouble,” says RCMP Corporal Wayne Nichols, with provincial traffic services B division. He recounts arresting an impaired motorcycle driver going 148 km/h on the highway. He was not wearing a helmet. “He was twice the legal limit, actually,” says Nichols. “What was this
guy thinking?” In the metro St. John’s area, Murphy and his colleagues patrol the streets. If his suspicions are raised by erratic driving, Murphy says he will pull a driver over to check his or her documentation and suss the situation out. Murphy says he has seen it all — people handing over their MCP or credit cards. Some, he says, have given him their wallets, asking him to find what he’s looking for. Some have had a beer bottle or flask between their legs. The smell of alcohol or slurred words prompts Murphy to ask the driver to get into the squad car. The driver is going to the police station for testing. He asks me to get into the squad car. We were pretending, and I didn’t want
Const. Paul Didham administers the breath-testing machine to Morgan.
to. When he gets to the station, Murphy passes the suspect, as he or she now is, over to Didham, who operates the breath-testing machine in a small, windowless room in the basement. I was escorted into the room and asked to sit in a green plastic chair next to the machine (Breathalyzer, says Didham, is a registered trademark. I’m to blow into a competitor’s machine). Didham is then required to observe the detainee for 15 minutes. Most just sit and chat about work and family, he says. Some start to realize they are in trouble, saying their wives are going to kill them, or they are going to lose their jobs. Some, says Murphy, ask for a break. “They say ‘Do you know what you
are doing to me?’” The breath machine is nine years old, and has been used over 2,700 times. A machine in Mount Pearl, says Didham, has similar statistics. While a blood level registering over .08 milligrams of alcohol makes one legally impaired, Murphy says they have seen people blow over .320, four times the legal limit. He says the average person would not reach .200 before falling asleep. “Actually, anything over .300 is lethal,” says Didham. He says anyone who blows that high is taken to hospital right away. Time for a reality check: these are people they have stopped on our roads. These people were driving. After I blow, Didham says I have to wait 15 minutes before being tested
again. So we sit there. He says the people he tests usually just make light conversation. I can’t imagine how awkward that might be. Both officers are friendly, courteous, professional, even compassionate. They say they have had their moments in that little room, with people getting saucy, or freaking out. Murphy says pepper spray has been deployed in the past. But the vast majority of drivers, they say, are quiet, often subdued. If I had blown over .08 twice, I would have been charged. RNC statistics show an increase in the number of people charged over the past few years. Since 2004, over 1,100 people have been charged with impaired driving, with 324 already charged this year, up from 141 for the same time period last year. Since
2004, 126 people have been charged with refusing to provide a breath sample. The RCMP keep statistics for all motorized machines, including motor vehicles. There were 1,289 charges of impaired driving last year and 881 to date for this year. While boats, planes and ATVs are included, a spokesperson for the RCMP says the majority are motor-vehicle related. Ask any officer — RCMP or RNC — off the record and he or she will tell you, more staff would translate into more impaired drivers being charged. Care says MADD is working hard, lobbying to make it easier for police to lay charges, targeting high-risk offenders, conducting public education, and trying to get politicians “to
see how important it is.” Care, whose mother was killed by a drunk driver, says despite all this work, it is hard to hold the public’s interest. She says after the Matthew Churchill incident, even though no impaired charge was laid, there was increased support from the public for the organization. “And as quick as that came, it went,” she says. And disturbing new trends are appearing. Care says she has a sense more women are drinking and driving. “They’ve sort of come of age.” Murphy and Didham can’t comment on trends, but they note three young women were detained on the weekend of August 24. They blew .210, .230 and .250. ivan.morgan@theindependent.ca
AUGUST 31, 2007
12 • INDEPENDENTNEWS
AROUND THE WORLD The Halifax Herald of Wednesday last says that Mr. Miller, Editor-in-Chief of the New York Times, is spending a vacation at Halifax with his wife and daughter and that he “will leave for Newfoundland this week.” The Times has been somewhat in the limelight lately, as it was in its columns the notorious steed, or Northcliffe interview first appeared. The British Times suppressed it, but the Daily Mail published it in its Irish edition. — The Free Press, St. John’s, Aug. 9, 1921 AROUND THE BAY A big fish got entangled in Mr. Sam Abbott’s trap in Bonavista today and was towed ashore by two motor boats. The fish was 24 feet long, 12 feet girth and had fine sets of gills and three rows of very small teeth. Its skin was rough and corrugated. The fishermen had never seen its like before. Recourse was had to the fish book and it was there described as a basking shark — rather a rare visitor for these waters. — Daily News, St. John’s, Aug. 10, 1914 YEARS PAST The shooting season commences to-morrow — the first of September. Don’t forget to give us the baggings, Gentlemen! — The Morning Chronicle, St. John’s, Aug. 31, 1880 EDITORIAL STAND Tourist Traffic — We are not getting all that we should out of it. The season is short and, being so, we should make it interesting. Thousands of Americans wish to see Labrador. We have only the SS Kyle, a good little boat, but too small. There should be a big modernly-equipped passenger boat, equal to the Fort George or the Nerissa, to make trips to Nain, aye, even to Cape Chidley in
OCEAN SCIENCES CENTRE
MAJOR RESEARCH PARTNERSHIPS
MAJOR RESEARCH PARTNERSHIPS
RESEARCH MARKETING MANAGER
RESEARCH & PROJECT ENGINEER I (SIMULATOR TEAM)
RESEARCH & PROJECT ENGINEER II (PRODUCT REALIZATION)
(Contractual Position to August 31, 2008) DUTIES Reporting to the Director, the successful applicant will perform a variety of professional activities in support of research activities, the public education program in marine sciences, and communications for the Ocean Sciences Centre (OSC). Duties include identifying, researching and writing external research and public education funding applications; promoting and facilitating research at the OSC; acting as research liaison for the Field Services Unit; developing a recruitment strategy for graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and visiting researchers; handling human resource issues related to OSC graduate students; recommending new systems and procedures; writing and delivering interpretation materials for external professional audiences including pamphlets, brochures, annual reports, posters, trade show displays, seminars and other promotional materials; providing research based tours of the OSC and Aquaculture Research and Development Facility to government agencies, potential industrial partners and visiting researchers; maintaining contact with university officials regarding research and administrative activities; overseeing the summer public education program including planning, scheduling, budgeting, hiring and training of staff, display development, and development and delivery of outreach activities; maintaining liaison with local organizations and agencies regarding integration of a marine public awareness program; and performing other related duties as required. QUALIFICATIONS Experience (1-3 years) in related research or public education activities; completion of most college level course work equivalent to a masters degree in biological or marine sciences; or any equivalent combination of experience and training. Experience in external funding application processes in a scientific environment is required. The successful candidate must possess strong oral and written communications. SALARY $35,557 on the scale of $35,557 to $49,863 (pro-rated)
(2 Contractual Positions to June 30, 2010) “These Positions are Funded Through an External Grant” BACKGROUND The Marine Simulation Group is a three year applied research and developmental project led by Memorial University of Newfoundland, in close partnership with the project’s industry partner, Virtual Marine Technology Inc, focusing on the development of technology for small craft simulation and simulators. DUTIES Reporting to the Simulator Team Lead, the successful applicant will be responsible for the design, fabrication, testing, and delivery of prototype training simulators for small marine craft. Duties include developing simulator software technologies and electrical hardware design for simulator components; implementing new and existing graphical and physical models; testing and verifying each newly developed simulation component; and performing other related activities. In addition to technical responsibilities, the successful applicant will be required to maintain a design logbook, provide detailed documentation and conform to a quality management system. QUALIFICATIONS Experience (1 to 3 years) in technical and software documentation techniques with a working knowledge of C++ or similar object-oriented programming; completion of a university degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science or related discipline; or any equivalent combination of experience and training. Familiarity with revision control and version management, higher-level architecture, graphical modelling, 3D graphical programming, open source code and network protocols would be an asset. Past experience in marine or simulation industries would also be valuable. The successful candidate will be goal-oriented, an effective communicator, and able to work well independently and as part of a team.
(Contractual Position to June 30, 2010) “This Position is Funded Through an External Grant” BACKGROUND The Marine Simulation Group is a three year applied research and developmental project led by Memorial University of Newfoundland, in close partnership with the project’s industry partner, Virtual Marine Technology Inc, focusing on the development of technology for small craft simulation and simulators. DUTIES The successful applicant will guide the product realization process, interfacing between product teams, research groups, and VMT in developing a market-ready product and a replicable development process. Key responsibilities include establishing a verification, validation and accreditation process; developing detailed production requirements; evaluating and improving the production processes, in conjunction with the simulator product team; capturing lessons learned and developing a continuous improvement program; evaluating products, production processes, installation procedures, and maintenance practices and facilitating best practices for each based on customer values; establishing key goals and scheduling requirements; and performing other related activities. QUALIFICATIONS Considerable experience (3 to 5 years) in product realization in a team environment; completion of a university degree in Engineering or related discipline; or any equivalent combination of experience and training. Familiarity with tools such as QFD, value stream mapping, FMEA, QA systems (eg. ISO9000) and continuous improvement programs is preferred. The successful candidate will be goal oriented, an effective communicator, able to work independently, and have an unwavering focus on the market and customer value.
August. These trips would pay and see all accommodation filled if properly advertised in New York. There is no more delightful climate in the world in August and the early part of September than Labrador. The thousands of fjords, tickles, islands and cozy harbours make it a veritable land of enchantment at this season of the year and the native inhabitants, the Esquimaux, are very interesting people. Good-humoured and kindly, they afford in their manners and customs an interesting study to the visitor. It is to be hoped that next year the enterprising Furness Withy Co. will place a good boat, capable of taking 400 or 500 passengers on this route. — The Liberal Press, St. John’s, Aug. 3, 1929 LETTER TO THE EDITOR Mr. Editor — So highly our Honourable House of Assembly appreciated the Address of many of the respectable Inhabitants of Harbour Grace to Chief Justice Boulton, on his leaving this country for England last winter, that they have ordered an unlimited number of copies to be printed and circulated at the public expense, besides publishing it in their own organ, “The Patriot.” Now Sir, in order to forward the enlightened views of the Assembly, may I request that you will also give it a place in your columns, feeling confident that it will afford your numerous readers the highest satisfaction, to find in your valuable Journal, so excellent a document, equally creditable to the parties, and to the distinguished individual whom they had the honour of addressing. And oblige — A SUBSCRIBER — The Star and Conception Bay Journal, Harbour Grace, Aug. 29, 1838 QUOTE OF THE WEEK The immediate mission of Miss Dix to this Colony, at present, is, we understand, to afford the aid of her experience, her judgment, and we believe a large portion of her means, towards an improvement in the treatment and thereby, an amelioration of the sufferings of that class of afflicted ones whose case draws most deeply on our sympathies — those whose mental sun is wholly or partially eclipsed — in whose minds reason’s equilibrium is either altogether lost, or, at the best, but vibrates tremulously. — Morning Post and Shipping Gazette, St. John’s, Aug. 19, 1859
FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND APPLIED SCIENCE
MANAGER OF FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION DUTIES Under the direction of the Dean, the successful applicant will be responsible for the administrative, financial and human resources functions of the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. Duties include planning, recommending and implementing administrative plans and procedures to contribute to the effective management and operation of teaching, research and outreach functions of the Faculty; planning, monitoring, analyzing and controlling the Faculty’s financial position, preparing annual budgets and tracking all financial transactions, preparing statements of revenues and expenditures within the various cost centers for the Faculty; coordinating capital projects; coordinating inventory control; supervising staff and providing administrative support services to ancillary offices (Associate Deans, Discipline Chairs, and Industrial Outreach); liaising with student associations; planning and managing various activities for the Faculty such as, Open House, Engineering One Orientation, Alumni functions, student functions, Engineering and Applied Science Advisory Council and Memorial Engineering Alumni Advisory Council; representing the Dean/Faculty on various committees and boards; liaising with the Professional Engineers and Geoscientists (PEG-NL) and other external stakeholders; and performing other related duties as required. QUALIFICATIONS Thorough experience (5 – 10 years) at the management level in administration or a related field in an accredited engineering degree program environment, including supervisory experience and financial management of a progressively responsible nature; graduation with an undergraduate degree from a recognized university supplemented by masters coursework in business, public administration or a related field; or any equivalent combination of experience and training. Knowledge of databases, spreadsheets, and Banner Finance as well as excellent interpersonal skills and strong written and oral communication skills are required. SALARY Commensurate with qualifications and experience.
CLOSING DATE September 7, 2007
SALARY Commensurate with qualifications and experience.
SALARY Commensurate with qualifications and experience.
CLOSING DATE September 7, 2007
COMPETITION NO. OSC-07-06
CLOSING DATE September 14, 2007
CLOSING DATE September 14, 2007
COMPETITION NO. EAS-027-07-04
COMPETITION NO. MRP-07-06 MRP-07-07
COMPETITION NO. MRP-07-08
All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; howeve, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. Memorial University is committed to emploment equit and encourages applications from qualified women and men, visible minorities, aboriginal peoples, and persons with disabilities.
www.mun.ca
INDEPENDENTBUSINESS
FRIDAY THROUGH THURSDAY, AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 6, 2007 — PAGE 13
Curious alpacas Cormack farm plans to offer petting zoo, pony rides REUTERS/Pilar Olivares
By John Rieti The Independent
W
hen Shelley Senior was 12, she and her sister spent their babysitting money on a pinto pony named Spot. Now a grandmother, Senior has never lost her love for animals, and this September she’s buying three alpacas, one of which is pregnant and expected to give birth some time this
fall. Senior plans to open a petting zoo on her farm in Cormack, a small town near Deer Lake. Senior’s alpaca farm, based on a 55acre lot, will be the second in the province. She’s buying her animals from the Port au Port farm where she first encountered an alpaca. “When I saw them I just fell in love, they’re very cute and neat looking ani-
mals, they’re very biddable, they’re not stupid like sheep,” Senior tells The Independent. Alpacas come in more colours than sheep, and are distinguishable by their long, erect necks that grow thick with fur. Senior plans to purchase a llama to go along with her alpacas — to protect the herd from coyotes — and hopes to add a variety of baby animals next summer. She currently owns four horses, includ-
ing two Newfoundland pony stallions. She is also looking for a mare so she can breed Newfoundland ponies on the farm. “It’ll be a real family thing,” she says. She says her farm will appeal to tourists heading up the Viking Trail, on their way to L’Anse aux Meadows or Gros Morne. Guests will be able to pet the animals, take a pony ride, and shop in her craft store, which will feature products like mittens knit from alpaca wool.
Senior’s business has benefited from a $48,000 loan from the provincial government. “For the most part (alpacas) are curious and quite friendly,” says Senior, who once sat her 14-month-old granddaughter down for alpacas to sniff at. They can be easily scared, and like camels, they may spit at anyone making
He says the business climate in Newfoundland has improved dramatically with the Hebron deal and local companies should look for networking opportunities as more large companies move into the province. Minutes into the interview, Byrne has to take another call, but he is soon back with more good news to announce — another contract.
Byrne predicts more work to come in the three years before Hebron gets underway, specifically to do with the White Rose extension and the south Hibernia project. “The timing is really good … we will benefit from those and be able to build up and ramp up for Hebron in a
See “Best wool,” page 14
‘Tons of work’
D.F. Barnes fabrication company expanding in anticipation of Hebron
By John Rieti The Independent
J
erry Byrne’s voice races with excitement as he talks about the Hebron deal, the fabrication contracts its gravity-based drilling platform holds for his company, and the hundreds of Newfoundlanders he plans to bring home to get the work
done. “To use the word literally, there will be tons and tons of work for a company like D.F. Barnes, everything from rails to hatches to watertight doors.” Byrne tells The Independent. “We have a three-year window, we can actually do some really good planning, make the right kind of contacts and make sure we have our competi-
tive strategies in place so that we can compete around the world.” In the last five years D.F. Barnes, a local metal fabrication company, has grown from 10 employees to 400, and won major international contracts. Byrne attributes the success to quality and timely production and strong communication with major multinational companies.
See “A great opportunity,” page 14
14 • INDEPENDENTBUSINESS
‘A great opportunity’
AUGUST 31, 2007
THE NOMINEE IS …
From page 13
Despite the vague details of the memorandum of understanding signed by the provincial govsensible way,” says Byrne. ernment, Byrne says the Hibernia project is a He says a key part of his planning will be good guide to what work needs to be done, and bringing home Newfoundlanders with skilled how much money the project should bring in. trades. He says more construction “We’ve got a sizeable workwill be done in Newfoundland force in Alberta that we hope to than was the case with Hiberbe able to bring home,” says nia, which had most of its top“We’ve got a Byrne, whose company currently side components built in Eurhas 200 workers out west. ope. As chair of the Newfoundsizeable workforce “They’re all Newfoundlanders, land Ocean Industries Assoin Alberta ... they’re they’re all looking to come home ciation, Byrne says his isn’t the and we’re looking to bring them only company positioned to all Newfoundlanders, win major contracts, but findhome, so it works out for everyone.” a place to build could they’re all looking to ing Byrne says his company is also become a problem. hiring more engineers and tech- come home and we’re “I think we will max out our nicians than ever, necessary to be facilities. I think our problem successful in the wide array of looking to bring them in the future, especially by the contracts he hopes to win. He’s time Hebron comes on stream, hoping for both steel working will be a stress on the facilihome, so it works contracts and a chance to tie in ties,” he says. out for everyone.” his company’s work with interna“There’s a great opportunity tional companies making rig for Newfoundland companies Jerry Byrne parts like compressors and conto start building capacity.” trol modules. D.F. Barnes has built a plant “We’ve got a very well-trained on Logy Bay Road in St. John’s workforce here in Newfoundland with a lot of and Byrne says they will continue to invest in experience. We bring a lot to the table, we can infrastructure that can be used for the Hebron compete with the best in the world there’s no project. doubt in my mind.” john.rieti@theindependent.ca
Jonathan Brett (seated) CEO of MedicLINK, a Newfoundland and Labrador-based medical software company, has been named an Atlantic finalist for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Dr. Jonathan Bense (stadning) is one of his clients. Paul Daly/The Independent
‘Best wool in the world’ From page 13 an unfavourable advance. “I guess I’ll have to warn people of that,” Senior says with a laugh. She has been searching for a local wool spinner and says processing the alpaca’s fibre on site is one of her goals. Alpaca wool sells for $60 per kilogram, more than sheep’s wool. “It’s said that it’s the best wool in the world, it’s extremely warm and very durable,” says Senior. Alpacas’ coats make them an ideal species for Newfoundland’s climate. “They’re not hard animals to take care of, they really weather the Newfoundland winter well,” says Senior. During the winter they are given a feed, but Senior says in the summer her pastures are rich enough to easily sustain the herd. She says they eat considerably less hay than horses — only one bale a week compared to a bale a day. Senior has always enjoyed looking after animals. “(Farming) has always been a dream of mine, I have two kids, they went through law school with me, I’m a single mother and that was always what we dreamed of was having a place out in the country with horses … it’s just who I am,” she says. john.rieti@theindependent.ca
Opportunities Heavy Equipment Technician
Temporary One (1) temporary position of Heavy Equipment Technician, with the Eastern Transportation Division of the Department of Transportation and Works located at Clarenville. DUTIES: This position provides skilled journeyperson level work with the diagnosing of problems related to light and heavy equipment as well as advanced work in a variety of other trades associated with the repair of vehicles and related equipment carried out in the region. Equipment includes trucks, loaders, snow plows, snow blowers, graders and air powered equipment. Work involves repairing, rebuilding and fabricating parts and components of light and heavy vehicles, vehicle systems and related equipment. The Heavy Equipment Technician performs emergency road services, makes field repairs and performs other related duties as required. QUALIFICATIONS: Candidates must be a certified journeyperson Heavy Equipment Technician, certified journeyperson Truck and Transport Mechanic or a certified journeyperson Automotive Technician with experience in the repair of heavy equipment and heavy trucks (certification issued by the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador and/or interprovincial certification). Possession of a valid driver’s license is required. Experience in the various trades associated with repair of vehicles and equipment, and courses in welding, machinist, autobody repairer, automotive repairer and automotive mechanic trades are definite assets. Experience in electric welding and acetylene cutting would also be an asset. SALARY: $17.44 – 19.28 (40 HOUR WEEK) MS 26 COMPETITION #: TW.C.HET.(t).07.08.162-P CLOSING DATE: September 11, 2007. INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS: Applications SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO: Mail:
Fax:
Ms. Jennette Reader Regional Administrator Dept. of Transportation & Works 3 Duffitt Place Clarenville, NF A5A 1E9 (709) 466-3927
Applications should be received before the close of business on the closing date - either by mail or fax. Late applications with explanation may be considered. For additional information on this position call 709-466-4121.
AUGUST 31, 2007
INDEPENDENTBUSINESS • 15
Opportunities Marketing/Production Officer
Regional Partnership Planner
Permanent
Temporary, until return of permanent incumbent
Strategic Planning and Communications Division, Department of Business, St. John’s
Rural Secretariat, Executive Council, Corner Brook
DUTIES: Reporting to the Director, Brand Development, the incumbent is responsible for the management, coordination, supervision and maintenance of all marketing, advertising and promotional programs implemented by the Department of Business including the implementation of the brand development strategy. This position is also responsible for the development of strategic plans, programs and marketing initiatives to market Newfoundland and Labrador for inward investment. QUALIFICATIONS: This position requires management experience in the area of marketing and communications. Experience developing and implementing marketing and brand strategies is required. Knowledge of internet marketing and web development would be an asset. Strong project management, solid analytical skills and exceptional communications skills are also required. The incumbent must have the ability to exercise sound judgement and take initiative to complete required duties with limited supervision. These qualifications would normally be acquired through 5-7 years experience working in a marketing role within an organization or agency combined with a university degree in Business, Communications or other related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience may also be considered. SALARY:
$ 53,125.80 – $ 62,589.80 per annum (GS 42) COMPETITION #: BUS.C.MPO(p).07/08.076-P CLOSING DATE: September 12th, 2007 Applications, quoting Competition No., should be submitted to: Mail:
Fax: E-Mail:
Recruitment Centre Public Service Commission 4th Floor, West Block Confederation Building P. O. Box 8700 St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6 (709) 729-6737 pscecresumes@gov.nl.ca
Applications should be received before the close of business on the closing date - late applications with explanation may be considered. For additional information on this position, please call (709) 729-3198. August 23, 2007
Court Officer I
TEMPORARY (2 positions) To March 31, 2008 Location: Provincial Court of Newfoundland and Labrador, Happy Valley-Goose Bay DUTIES: Performs clerical work involved in the procedural operation of the Registry of the Provincial Court, Including circuit court; processes court documents; attends circuit court on the north and south coast of Labrador; prepares court orders and signs as an officer of the court; attends sittings of court and takes minutes of proceedings, calls cases, performs swearing-in duties, records plea and enters trial dates; types accurate transcripts of court proceedings; marks and takes possession of documents and exhibits for continuity and safekeeping; provides front-line counter service to customers/clients; provides the public with information on the processing of applications in the court; receipts cash; responds to public inquiries; and performs related work as required. QUALIFICATIONS: One position must have the ability to speak Inuktitut, as well as English the second position must have the ability to speak Innu-Aimun, as well as English; other aboriginal languages would be an asset. Applicants must possess good keyboarding skills, have a general knowledge of court operations and be able to work in a computerized environment; applicants must possess good verbal and written skills, good organizational and analytical ability supported by sound judgment. The ability to establish and maintain effective work relations are highly desirable in a fast-paced work environment where independence, attention to detail, dependability, the ability to multi-task and a commitment to providing quality service are essential attributes; 65 nwpm. Equivalencies considered. Candidates may be required to provide an official transcript at time of interview. The successful incumbent will be required to travel overnight with circuit court. Candidates must clearly demonstrate in their resume that they meet all of the above qualifications. Failure to do so may result in a candidate being screened out. Positions within the Department of Justice are considered “Positions of Trust” and as such successful candidates will be subject to a background check through police/court banks and other sources. SALARY:
$35,908.60 - $39,894.40 per annum (GS-30) COMPETITION #: J.C.COI(t).07.036 - P CLOSING DATE: September 10, 2007 INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS: Applications should be forwarded to: Mail:
Fax: E-mail:
Recruitment Centre Public Service Commission 4th Floor, West Block, Confederation Building P. O. Box 8700, St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6 709-729-6737 pscjusticeresumes@gov.nl.ca
* In order to ensure your application/resume is processed appropriately, the job competition number MUST be indicated. * Applications should be received before the close of business on the closing date, either by e-mail, postal mail or fax. (If faxing, DO NOT send a duplicate copy). Late applications with acceptable explanation may be considered. * For additional information on this position, call (709) 8967870 2007 08 23
DUTIES: Responsible for partnership development activities within one of the regions of the Rural Secretariat; works directly with a Regional Council to develop and advance a vision for sustainable development for the region; works collaboratively with government (provincial, federal and municipal) and community organizations to advance regional issues; promotes the use of evidence in decision making, and facilitates informed discussions about sustainable development ; works with research staff of the Rural Secretariat to ensure that research from a variety of sources is shared, or that required research is undertaken; in collaboration with the College of the North Atlantic and other partners, develops, promotes, or delivers workshops on issues related to regional needs; promotes collaborative and innovative approaches to problem identification and problem solving; works with other Rural Secretariat staff to promote regional perspectives in policy and program development. Extensive travel will be required. For additional information the Rural Secretariat, please visit our web site @ www.gov.nl.ca/rural/ QUALIFICATIONS: Thorough experience in community and regional development with particular emphasis on long term planning, partnership development, and the use of evidence in decision making; demonstrated ability to work effectively with government and community based partners; ability to work as part of a team; excellent interpersonal, mediation, negotiation and consensus building skills; effective problem identification and problem solving skills; excellent oral and written communication skills; thorough knowledge of the economic and social issues in one or more regions of the Province, and of sustainable development; effective time and organizational management skills. Experience / knowledge with computer applications and office management is essential. Skills and abilities would normally be acquired thorough completion of post secondary training and relevant related work experience. SALARY: $ 51,546 – $ 67,010 (HL 21) COMPETITION #: EXEC.RS.C.RPP(t).07/08.077-P CLOSING DATE: September 12th, 2007 Applications, quoting Competition No., should be submitted to: Mail:
Fax: E-Mail:
Recruitment Centre Public Service Commission 4th Floor, West Block Confederation Building P. O. Box 8700 St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6 (709) 729-6737 pscecresumes@gov.nl.ca
Applications should be received before the close of business on the closing date - late applications with explanation may be considered. For additional information on this position, please call (709) 729-3126. August 24, 2007
Statistical Officer
(Bilingual Preferred) August 2007 – March 31, 2008 Newfoundland and Labrador Statistics Agency, Economics and Statistics Branch, Department of Finance, Confederation Building, St. John’s. DUTIES: The incumbent is responsible for data cleaning, coding, analysis and development of digital image and microfilm Census records for Atlantic Canada as part of this national research infrastructure initiative, including Census of Canada records for 1911 to 1951 and Census of Newfoundland records for 1911, 1921, 1935 and 1945; using a variety of software including Microsoft Excel and Access, as well as SPSS to achieve these goals; evaluating the existing work process on a regular basis and making recommendations on operational improvements based on knowledge learned; providing recommendations for changes to data entry and analysis techniques to take advantage of any additional knowledge gained and helping to solve problems on a regular basis based on an application of pre-defined guidelines; and contributing to the data entry work by key entering records into a database using customized ACCESS data entry software as time, resources and other duties permit; as well as other statistical and clerical duties as required. QUALIFICATIONS: Graduation from high school supplemented with course work in office management and database processing. Preference will be given to candidates who are bilingual. Strong knowledge and interest in 20th Century Canadian History including courses in history, sociology or anthropology would be an asset. Candidate will be required to have strong writing skills and a proven ability to communicate effectively in a team environment. Minimum of 3 years experience or an equivalent combination of education and training is desired. Successful applicant must pass an Enhanced Security Check. SALARY: $32,905.60 - $36,418.20 (GS- 27) COMPETITION #: FIN.NLSA.C.SO(t).07/08.078-P CLOSING DATE: September 12th, 2007 Applications, quoting Competition No., should be submitted to: Mail: Manager of Strategic Staffing Recruitment Centre - Public Service Commission 4th Floor, West Block, Confederation Building P. O. Box 8700, St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6 Fax: (709) 729-6737 E-mail: pscecresumes@gov.nl.ca This competition is also open to employees of the Public Service including those on lay-off status, as specified by the applicable collective agreement or the Personnel Administration Procedures, but does not apply to students. Applications should be received before the close of business on the closing date either by email, fax or mail. Late applications with explanation may be considered. For additional information on this position, please call Terry Quinlan, (709) 729-0756. July 31st , 2007
Primary Program Development Specialist
Program Development Division, Department of Education 3rd Floor, West Block, Confederation Building, St. John’s, NL DUTIES: This position is responsible for providing leadership in the development of primary education. The incumbent will be responsible for preparing discipline specific curriculum guides and related curriculum support documents; assessing and recommending for authorization, learning resources to support provincial curriculum; providing leadership in professional development initiatives and in-service of new curriculum and through work with school districts; providing particular leadership in initiatives in the areas of mathematics and early literacy; working with other provincial program development specialists, consultants and school district specialists to recommend plans and policies related to primary curriculum development; collaborating with other Divisions within the Department of Education to prepare assessment tools and reports of student performance; and using information and communications technology effectively. QUALIFICATIONS: This is a challenging, professional position that will involve working collaboratively and in partnership with professional groups and individuals. The candidate will need to possess excellent conceptual, analytical, problem solving, interpersonal and decision making skills as well as excellent oral and written communications, presentation and facilitation skills with the ability to meet demanding deadlines. The successful candidate will have at least five years teaching experience at the K-6 level, and a Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction or Education. The candidate will have a thorough knowledge of the authorized provincial primary curriculum as well as a high level of skill in interpersonal relationships, the use of information and communications technology, organizational and administrative abilities including working to reporting deadlines. Must be able to travel throughout the province at certain period during the school year. SALARY: GS 42 salary scale or in accordance with the NLTA Collective Agreement- Secondment considered COMPETITION #: E.S.PPDS(p).07.08.134-P CLOSING DATE: September 10, 2007 TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Secondment (to August 2008) with possibility of renewal. Renewal will be on an annual basis. The candidate will be expected to work the public service year with annual leave based on years of teaching service. Applications, quoting competition number, should be forwarded via mail, fax or email: Mail:
Fax: E-Mail:
Recruitment Centre Public Service Commission 4th Floor, West Block Confederation Building P.O. Box 8700 St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6 (709) 729-6737 pscsocialresumes@gov.nl.ca
Applications must be received before the close of business on September 10, 2007– either by e-mail, mail or fax. Late applications with explanation may be considered. Candidates must clearly demonstrate in their applications that they meet the above qualifications; only those applicants who demonstrate such qualifications will be considered for further assessment. For additional information on this position, please call (709) 729-3004.
Marketing Specialist Permanent Strategic Planning and Communications Division, Department of Business, St. John’s DUTIES: Reporting to the Marketing/Production Officer, the incumbent is responsible for coordinating and promoting a comprehensive and detailed Brand Development Strategy to shape perceptions of Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as, assisting to market the province for business attraction. The incumbent will monitor the use of the brand signature and templates throughout government in order to ensure proper use and consistency in accordance with the graphic standards manual. The position will handle the co-ordination of development and production of marketing materials working closely with the department’s agency of record. QUALIFICATIONS: Candidates must have a strong understanding of brand development, marketing and advertising strategies and stakeholders (industry and culture). Candidates should also have strong analytical, communication and project management skills, along with a high level of adaptability, initiative, leadership and judgement. The required qualifications for this position would normally be acquired through post-secondary studies in the field of marketing and promotion, communications or journalism, couple with a minimum 2-3 years of related experience in the field of marketing or communications, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience with desktop publishing would be an asset. SALARY:
$ 42,533.40 - $ 47,447.40 per annum (GS 35) COMPETITION #: BUS.C.MS(p).07/08.075-P CLOSING DATE: September 12th, 2007 Applications, quoting Competition No., should be submitted to: Mail:
Fax: E-Mail:
Recruitment Centre Public Service Commission 4th Floor, West Block Confederation Building P. O. Box 8700 St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6 (709) 729-6737 pscecresumes@gov.nl.ca
Applications should be received before the close of business on the closing date - late applications with explanation may be considered. For additional information on this position, please call (709) 729-3198. August 23, 2007
16 • INDEPENDENTBUSINESS
AUGUST 31, 2007
Opportunities Management Analyst II
Policy, Planning and Research Analyst
Municipal Affairs Analyst
Temporary To March 31, 2008 (Or until permanent incumbent returns)
(Temporary until March 31st, 2008 with possibility of extension)
2 positions (Temporary – 6 months)
Corrections and Community Services Division, Department of Justice, Her Majesty’s Penitentiary, St. John’s
One (1) temporary position of Policy, Planning and Research Analyst with the Audit and Claims Integrity Division of the Department of Health and Community Services located at the Belvedere Building, 57 Margaret’s Place, St. John’s.
Eastern Regional Office, Department of Municipal Affairs, St. John’s, NL
DUTIES: This position is an integral part of the Administration Support Team for the Division of Corrections and Community Services. The incumbent is responsible for planning, organizing and performing detailed and comprehensive analysis of budget submissions and budget monitoring reports for Adult Correctional Institutions, Community Corrections (Adult Probation) and Victim Services; acts as the Division’s primary expert in purchasing and plays a lead role in the development and review of significant tender documents; undertakes reviews of systems, methods, and processes provided by the Division and makes recommendations for improvement. This position acts in an advisory capacity to the senior managers within the Division and provides ongoing input to the Division of Finance and General Operations. QUALIFICATIONS: The successful candidate will possess thorough knowledge of financial and budget management, computerized financial applications, and financial data analysis and reporting. Strong oral and written communication, analytical and organizational skills, along with the ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships are essential. Qualifications for this position would normally be gained through graduation with a degree in business or accounting from a recognized university, supplemented by course work in a recognized accounting designation program, and significant experience in financial management and budgeting; or any equivalent combination of experience and training. Candidates must clearly demonstrate in their resume that they meet all of the above qualifications. Failure to do so may result in a candidate being screened out. Positions within the Department of Justice are considered “Positions of Trust” and as such successful candidates will be subject to a background check through police/court data banks and other sources. SALARY: $42,533 - $47,447 per annum (GS-35) COMPETITION #: J.C.MAII(t).07.081 - P CLOSING DATE: September 10, 2007 INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS: Applications, quoting Competition #, should be forwarded to: Mail:
Fax: E-mail:
Recruitment Unit Public Service Commission 4th Floor, West Block Confederation Building P. O. Box 8700, St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6 709-729-6737 pscjusticeresumes@gov.nl.ca
* In order to ensure your application/resume is processed appropriately, the job competition number MUST be indicated. * Applications should be received before the close of business on the closing date, either by e-mail, postal mail or fax. (If faxing, DO NOT send a duplicate copy). Late applications with acceptable explanation may be considered. *For additional information on this position, call (709) 7290486. 2007 08 23
Planner III
DUTIES: This position is responsible for research and analysis of a variety of health care activities including the Medical Care Plan and develops recommendations for changes to programs, policies and delivery mechanisms that are the responsibly of the Audit and Claims Integrity Division of the Department of Health and Community services. The incumbent will be responsible for the development of long and short term plans for this division and plays a major role in implementing these plans. The incumbent drafts policy statements, briefing notes and cabinet papers. Implements changes as a result of new policies and develops procedures in support of the new policies. In addition the incumbent provides input into the preparation of the annual budget. This position is also responsible for responding to inquires from various organizations such as Health Canada, other government Departments and other provincial health care plans. QUALIFICATIONS: Applicants must possess considerable knowledge and experience in policy, planning and research. Strong analytical, research, communication (written and oral), interpersonal, organizational and planning skills are essential. Candidates must be able to demonstrate an ability to exercise initiative and independent judgement in the performance of duties while maintaining effective working relationships; These qualifications would normally be acquired through a degree in commerce business or economics with relevant experience preferably in the health care field. THE DEPARTMENT: The Department of Health and Community Services provides a leadership role in health and community services program and policy development for the province. This involves working in partnership with a number of key stakeholders, including Regional Integrated Health Authorities, community organizations, professional associations, unions, consumers and other government departments. Employees of the Department are eligible for enrolment in the group health and insurance plans, as well as the provincial government pension plan. The Department is proud to offer employees a scent-free work environment and the opportunity to request flexible work schedules. $ 45,754.80 - $ 51,105.60 per annum (GS-37) COMPETITION #: H.C.PPRA(t).07.08.001-P CLOSING DATE: September 14, 2007 Applications, quoting competition number, should be forwarded to: Mail:
Fax: E-Mail:
Recruitment Centre Public Service Commission P.O. Box 8700 St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6 (709) 729-6737 pscsocialresumes@gov.nl.ca
Applications should be received before the close of business on the closing date – either by mail, fax or e-mail. Late applications with explanation may be considered. For additional information on this position call (709) 758-1599.
Director, Brand Development
Maternity Leave Replacement - Contractual
Parks and Natural Areas Division, Department of Environment and Conservation, Deer Lake NL
Department of Business, Confederation Building, St. John’s
QUALIFICATIONS: A knowledge of facility design, construction techniques, park planning, natural resource management planning processes, GIS, AutoCAD and related computer applications and financial management, Provincial Parks Act and the Wilderness and Ecological Reserve Act are required. Strong oral and written communication, presentation, organizational and analytical skills are essential as well as the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and work independently. Required qualifications would normally be acquired through a university degree in Landscape Architecture and/or Civil Engineering or related studies in site planning, park planning or environmental design combined with directly related responsible experience. Eligibility for registration with the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA) and/or the Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Newfoundland and Labrador (PEGNL) would be an asset. SALARY:
$50,577.80 - $56,583.80 (GS-40) COMPETITION NUMBER: EC.C.PIII(t).07.0172 CLOSING DATE: SEPTEMBER 14, 2007 INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS: Applications, quoting competition number, should be forwarded via mail, fax or email: Mail:
Fax: E-Mail:
Recruitment Centre Public Service Commission 4th Floor, West Block Confederation Building P.O. Box 8700 St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6 (709) 729-6737 pscresourcesresumes@gov.nl.ca
Applications should be received before the close of business on the closing date - late applications with explanation may be considered. For additional information on this position call (709) 729-5082. August 24, 2007
QUALIFICATIONS: The successful candidate must possess a strong knowledge of municipal administration and financial management practices, and legislation / regulations interpretation, monitoring and compliance. The individual must also possess strong communication, organizational and analytical skills, together with the ability to exercise sound judgment, work independently and establish and maintain effective working relationships. Graduation from a recognized university or college with a Degree in Business Administration or Commerce, considerable experience in municipal administration and financial management, completion of intermediate level course work in accounting or auditing preferred, or equivalent combination of experience and training. Computer literacy is essential, with a working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel. SALARY: GS-37 ($45,754.80 - $51,105.60) COMPETITION #: MA.C.MAA(t).07.08.025-P (Please quote when applying) CLOSING DATE: September 14, 2007 Applications should be forwarded by mail or fax to: Mail: Recruitment Centre Public Service Commission 4th Floor, West Block Confederation Building P.O. Box 8700 St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6 Fax: (709) 729-6737 E-mail: pscsocialresumes@gov.nl.ca Tel: (709) 729-7390
SALARY:
Temporary to March 18, 2010
DUTIES: Oversees and manages the site design, site planning and physical development of the Provincial Parks facilities and the Newfoundland T’Railway Provincial Park; conducts field assessments and surveys; designs, supervises, participates in the preparation of and implementation of park management and development plans; prepares specific project construction plans, details and specifications and amendments; reviews and recommends changes to existing maintenance standards, procedures and schedules; reviews and recommends proposed capital construction program; prepares tender and proposal call documents relating to capital construction and professional services projects; implements and monitors work and expenditures for capital construction, research and management projects; writes reports; makes presentations; liaises with contractors, consultants, departmental staff and other stakeholders; represents department on various committees and attends public meetings. A valid driver’s licence, frequent travel and flexibility to work evenings and weekends is required.
DUTIES: The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting analysis of municipal operations in the Eastern Region of the Province to promote financial / administrative stability and encourage strong local governments. This will be accomplished by carrying out on-site evaluations and monitoring budgetary submissions, financial reports and municipal administrative procedures. In conjunction with this, the individual will have a significant responsibility to provide advice and interpretation respecting the application of legislation / regulations governing and supporting local government operations. Assisting with municipal training initiatives will also be a responsibility. Extensive travel is required.
DUTIES: The successful candidate will play a lead role in the management and implementation of government’s Brand Development Strategy. The Director, Brand Development ensures consistency of brand voice – including brand visual and verbal cues, marketing and advertising communication, and customer experience – at all contact points, and across all government departments and agencies, boards and commissions, partners, and licensed users. The Director will lead marketing communications efforts for business attraction working closely with the Agency of Record. This includes management and implementation of a new marketing strategy and tactical plan promoting inward investment to Newfoundland and Labrador. In addition, the marketing components for the Department’s website for business attraction will be overseen by the Director. QUALIFICATIONS: This position would require the candidate to have a superior knowledge of the success factors for creating a strong brand identity; demonstrated experience in successful brand development and implementation. The candidate must be a self-motivated team player with exceptional skills in communications (oral and written) consensus-building and motivation and decision making. The candidate must be multi-disciplined and must possess superior interpersonal and project management skills. The above qualifications would normally have been acquired through graduation from university with a degree, preferably at the master’s level, in business administration or commerce with major course work in marketing. The candidate would also have at least 8-10 years experience working in the marketing, advertising or communications field in positions of a progressively responsible nature. COMPETITION #: BUS.C.DBD(c).07/08.079-P CLOSING DATE: September 12th, 2007 Applications, quoting Competition No., should be submitted to: Mail: Recruitment Centre Public Service Commission 4th Floor, West Block Confederation Building P. O. Box 8700 St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6 Fax: (709) 729-6737 E-Mail: pscecresumes@gov.nl.ca Applications should be received before the close of business on the closing date - late applications with explanation may be considered. For additional information on this position, please call (709) 729-3198. August 27, 2007
Applications must be received before the close of business on September 14, 2007 – either by e-mail, mail or fax. Late applications with explanation may be considered. Candidates must clearly demonstrate in their applications that they meet the above qualifications; only those applicants who demonstrate such qualifications will be considered for further assessment. For additional information on this position, please call (709) 729-7390
Physical Education Teacher
(Full Time - Permanent) Location: Academic Department of Newfoundland and Labrador Youth Centre, Department of Justice, Whitbourne DUTIES: Delivers classroom instruction in a modern secure custody facility. The incumbent will assume teaching duties in Physical Education with Science instruction at the Junior High/Senior High School level, and will work as a cooperative team member with other professionals in the development and implementation of individual support services plans. QUALIFICATIONS: Teaching experience in the appropriate subject areas at the Intermediate/Senior High School level. The incumbent will work cooperatively in a team environment exhibiting such characteristics as tolerance, flexibility and excellent communication skills; these qualifications are normally acquired through university graduation with a degree in Education (High School methods) and major in the appropriate subject area. Equivalencies will be considered. NLTA certification is required. Candidates must clearly demonstrate in their resume that they meet all of the above qualifications. Failure to do so may result in a candidate being screened out. Positions within the Department of Justice are considered “Positions of Trust” and as such successful candidates will be subject to a background check through police/court banks and other sources. SALARY: In accordance with the N.L.T.A. Collective Agreement COMPETITION #: J.C.PET(p).07.051 - P CLOSING DATE: September 10, 2007 INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS: Applications should be forwarded to: Mail:
Fax: E-mail:
Recruitment Centre Public Service Commission 4th Floor, West Block Confederation Building P. O. Box 8700, St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6 709-729-6737 pscjusticeresumes@gov.nl.ca
* In order to ensure your application/resume is processed appropriately, the job competition number MUST be indicated. * Applications should be received before the close of business on the closing date, either by e-mail, postal mail or fax. (If faxing, DO NOT send a duplicate copy). Late applications with acceptable explanation may be considered. *For additional information on this position, call (709) 7593151. 2007 08 23
AUGUST 31, 2007
INDEPENDENTBUSINESS • 17
Opportunities Heavy Equipment Technician
Heavy Equipment Technician
Permanent
Permanent
One (1) permanent position of Heavy Equipment Technician, with the Eastern Transportation Division of the Department of Transportation and Works located at Port Rexton.
One (1) permanent position of Heavy Equipment Technician, with the Central Transportation Division of the Department of Transportation and Works located at Springdale.
DUTIES: This position provides skilled journeyperson level work with the diagnosing of problems related to light and heavy equipment as well as advanced work in a variety of other trades associated with the repair of vehicles and related equipment carried out in the region. Equipment includes trucks, loaders, snow plows, snow blowers, graders and air powered equipment. Work involves repairing, rebuilding and fabricating parts and components of light and heavy vehicles, vehicle systems and related equipment. The Heavy Equipment Technician performs emergency road services, makes field repairs and performs other related duties as required.
DUTIES: This position provides skilled journeyperson level work with the diagnosing of problems related to light and heavy equipment as well as advanced work in a variety of other trades associated with the repair of vehicles and related equipment carried out in the region. Equipment includes trucks, loaders, snow plows, snow blowers, graders and air powered equipment. Work involves repairing, rebuilding and fabricating parts and components of light and heavy vehicles, vehicle systems and related equipment. The Heavy Equipment Technician performs emergency road services, makes field repairs and performs other related duties as required.
QUALIFICATIONS: Candidates must be a certified journeyperson Heavy Equipment Technician, certified journeyperson Truck and Transport Mechanic or a certified journeyperson Automotive Technician with experience in the repair of heavy equipment and heavy trucks (certification issued by the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador and/or interprovincial certification). Possession of a valid driver’s license is required. Experience in the various trades associated with repair of vehicles and equipment, and courses in welding, machinist, autobody repairer, automotive repairer and automotive mechanic trades are definite assets. Experience in electric welding and acetylene cutting would also be an asset.
QUALIFICATIONS: Candidates must be a certified journeyperson Heavy Equipment Technician, certified journeyperson Truck and Transport Mechanic or a certified journeyperson Automotive Technician with experience in the repair of heavy equipment and heavy trucks (certification issued by the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador and/or interprovincial certification). Possession of a valid driver’s license is required. Experience in the various trades associated with repair of vehicles and equipment, and courses in welding, machinist, autobody repairer, automotive repairer and automotive mechanic trades are definite assets. Experience in electric welding and acetylene cutting would also be an asset.
SALARY: $17.44 – 19.28 (40 HOUR WEEK) MS 26 COMPETITION #: TW.C.HET.(p).07.08.147-P CLOSING DATE: September 11, 2007.
SALARY: $17.44 – 19.28 (40 HOUR WEEK) MS 26 COMPETITION #: TW.C.HET.(t).07.08.164-P CLOSING DATE: September 11, 2007.
INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS:
INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS:
Applications SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO:
Applications SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO:
Mail:
Fax:
Ms. Jennette Reader Regional Administrator Dept. of Transportation & Works 3 Duffitt Place Clarenville, NF A5A 1E9 (709) 466-3927
Applications should be received before the close of business on the closing date - either by mail or fax. Late applications with explanation may be considered. For additional information on this position call 709-4664121.
Heavy Equipment Technician
Mail:
E-Mail: Fax:
Ms. Daphne Bouzane Regional Administrator (A) Department of Transportation and Works P.O. Box 10 Grand Falls-Windsor, NL A2A 2J3 BouzaneD@gov.nl.ca (709) 292-4364
Applications should be received before the close of business on the closing date - either by mail or fax. Late applications with explanation may be considered. A separate application must be submitted for each competition. For additional information on this position call 709-2924306.
Heavy Equipment Technician
Eligibility List - Client Services Officer - Central Region The Department of Human Resources, Labour and Employment is currently compiling an eligibility list for Client Services Officers in the Central Region of Newfoundland and Labrador. This competition may be used to fill short and long term temporary employment opportunities. DUTIES: This is professional, front line employment that provides comprehensive and quality services to clients who wish to access programs and services of the Department or its partners within the area of Income Support and Career and Employment Services. A Client Services Officer is responsible to initiate service needs assessments in determining initial and continuing eligibility for income and employment services; ongoing case management services and participates in program development and administrative activities while ensuring efficient delivery and integrity of departmental programs. The Client Services Officer is expected to work in a team environment to ensure that programs and services are administered in accordance with established practices, guidelines and service standards as defined by departmental policies, procedures and legislation. QUALIFICATIONS: Knowledge of relevant departmental programs and services, demonstrated skills in assessment, case management, interviewing techniques, program compliance and information technology; candidates must possess effective organizational, analytical, problem solving, mediation, conflict resolution, decision making, strong oral and written communication skills. A degree in a related field supplemented with related experience is required. A combination of post secondary education and directly related experience in the assessment and delivery of programs and services may be considered. SALARY:
$41,059.20 - $45,718.40 per annum (GS-34) COMPETITION #: HRLE.C.CSO(t).07.08.131-P CLOSING DATE: September 7, 2007 Applications, quoting competition number, should be forwarded via mail, fax or email: Mail:
Fax: E-Mail:
Recruitment Centre Public Service Commission 4th Floor, West Block, Confederation Building P.O. Box 8700 St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6 (709) 729-6737 Pscsocialresumes@gov.nl.ca
Applications should be received before the close of business on the closing date - late applications with explanation may be considered. For additional information on this position call (709) 292-4580.
Heavy Equipment Technician
Permanent
Temporary
Apprenticeship Contract
One (1) permanent position of Heavy Equipment Technician, with the Eastern Transportation Division of the Department of Transportation and Works located at Goobies.
Two (2) temporary positions of Heavy Equipment Technician, with the Central Transportation Division of the Department of Transportation and Works located at Grand Falls-Windsor.
One (1) Apprenticeship Contract position of Apprentice Heavy Equipment Technician in the Central Transportation Division of the Department of Transportation and Works located at the Clarenville.
DUTIES: This position provides skilled journeyperson level work with the diagnosing of problems related to light and heavy equipment as well as advanced work in a variety of other trades associated with the repair of vehicles and related equipment carried out in the region. Equipment includes trucks, loaders, snow plows, snow blowers, graders and air powered equipment. Work involves repairing, rebuilding and fabricating parts and components of light and heavy vehicles, vehicle systems and related equipment. The Heavy Equipment Technician performs emergency road services, makes field repairs and performs other related duties as required.
DUTIES: This position will provide assistance to the Journey Person Heavy Equipment Technician associated with repairs to light and heavy equipment carried out in a Transportation Garage. Work involves designing, re-designing, repairing, rebuilding and fabricating parts and components of light and heavy vehicles, its systems and related equipment under supervision of a Journey Person to learn the operations in a mechanical facility and apply skills to the repair of Department equipment.
DUTIES: This position provides skilled journeyperson level work with the diagnosing of problems related to light and heavy equipment as well as advanced work in a variety of other trades associated with the repair of vehicles and related equipment carried out in the region. Equipment includes trucks, loaders, snow plows, snow blowers, graders and air powered equipment. Work involves repairing, rebuilding and fabricating parts and components of light and heavy vehicles, vehicle systems and related equipment. The Heavy Equipment Technician performs emergency road services, makes field repairs and performs other related duties as required. QUALIFICATIONS: Candidates must be a certified journeyperson Heavy Equipment Technician, certified journeyperson Truck and Transport Mechanic or a certified journeyperson Automotive Technician with experience in the repair of heavy equipment and heavy trucks (certification issued by the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador and/or interprovincial certification). Possession of a valid driver’s license is required. Experience in the various trades associated with repair of vehicles and equipment, and courses in welding, machinist, autobody repairer, automotive repairer and automotive mechanic trades are definite assets. Experience in electric welding and acetylene cutting would also be an asset. SALARY: $17.44 – 19.28 (40 HOUR WEEK) MS 26 COMPETITION #: TW.C.HET.(p).07.08.148-P CLOSING DATE: September 11, 2007.
QUALIFICATIONS: Candidates must be a certified journeyperson Heavy Equipment Technician, certified journeyperson Truck and Transport Mechanic or a certified journeyperson Automotive Technician with experience in the repair of heavy equipment and heavy trucks (certification issued by the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador and/or interprovincial certification). Possession of a valid driver’s license is required. Experience in the various trades associated with repair of vehicles and equipment, and courses in welding, machinist, autobody repairer, automotive repairer and automotive mechanic trades are definite assets. Experience in electric welding and acetylene cutting would also be an asset. SALARY: $17.44 – 19.28 (40 HOUR WEEK) MS 26 COMPETITION #: TW.C.HET.(t).07.08.163-P CLOSING DATE: September 11, 2007.
QUALIFICATIONS: Successful candidate must have completed advanced level apprenticeship training at a recognized institution, and have less than 1800 hours towards Journeyperson Certification. Experience in various other trades associated with the repair of vehicles and equipment; and experience in mechanical repairs, welding and machinists work would be an asset. SALARY: $17.44- $19.28 (MS-26) COMPETITION #: TW.C.HET.(t).07.08.139-P CLOSING DATE: September 11, 2007. INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS: Applications SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO: Mail:
INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS: INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS: Applications SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO: Mail:
Fax:
Ms. Jennette Reader Regional Administrator Dept. of Transportation & Works 3 Duffitt Place Clarenville, NF A5A 1E9 (709) 466-3927
Applications should be received before the close of business on the closing date - either by mail or fax. Late applications with explanation may be considered. For additional information on this position call 709-4664121.
Applications SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO: Mail: Ms. Daphne Bouzane Regional Administrator (A) Department of Transportation and Works P.O. Box 10 Grand Falls-Windsor, NL A2A 2J3 E-Mail: BouzaneD@gov.nl.ca Fax: (709) 292-4364 Applications should be received before the close of business on the closing date - either by mail or fax. Late applications with explanation may be considered. A separate application must be submitted for each competition. For additional information on this position call 709292-4306.
Fax:
Ms. Jennette Reader Regional Administrator Dept. of Transportation & Works 3 Duffitt Place Clarenville, NF A5A 1E9 (709) 466-3927
Applications should be received before the close of business on the closing date - either by mail or fax. Late applications with explanation may be considered. For additional information on this position call 709-4664121.
18 • INDEPENDENTBUSINESS
AUGUST 31, 2007
Opportunities Tenders Tenders will be accepted up to the dates and times indicated below for the following projects: A/PROJECT 089-07PHM – Clearing of approximately 28 hectares of Right-of-Way on Route 360, Bay d’Espoir Highway, and Route 361 St. Alban’s Road, NL. PURCHASE PRICE: $22.80 CLOSING DATE: SEPTEMBER 13, 2007 @ 12:00 NOON B/PROJECT 079-07PMB – Site preparation work and salt storage facility foundation installation, Heart’s Content maintenance depot, NL. PURCHASE PRICE: $22.80 CLOSING DATE: SEPTEMBER 13, 2007 @ 12:00 NOON C/PROJECT 090-07PHE – Storm Damage Repairs at various locations on Route 1, TCH, from Argentia Access Road to Long Harbour Interchange; Route 201, Chapel Arm to Bellevue Beach; Route 202 and Route 202-10, Long Harbour Road. PURCHASE PRICE: $22.80 CLOSING DATE: SEPTEMBER 10, 2007 @ 12:00 NOON Upon receipt of the purchase price indicated above, (NON REFUNDABLE, HST INCLUDED) plans and specifications may be obtained from Tendering and Contracts, Ground Floor, East Block, Confederation Building, St. John’s, NL, A1B 4J6, Ph# 709-729-3786, Fax# 709-7296729 and viewed at the offices of the Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association. Tenders addressed to the Deputy Minister of Transportation and Works must be delivered to Tendering and Contracts at the address above and be submitted on forms and in sealed envelopes provided, clearly marked as to the contents. Tenders will be opened immediately after the tender closing time. The Department does not bind itself to accept the lowest or any tender. Hon. John Hickey Minister Transportation and Works DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND WORKS PUBLIC NOTICE - TENDER FOR LOADING EQUIPMENT PROJECT NO. 91-07 PMQ 1. Sealed tenders are invited for the Supply of Equipment (Operator Required) for the purpose of loading ice control materials in vehicles owned or operated by the Department of Transportation and Works in the areas serviced by the work unit headquarters at the locations listed. All equipment must be registered in accordance with the Highway Traffic Act and must meet all Motor Vehicle Regulations of the Act. Equipment identified by the letters (FWD) must be Four Wheel Drive. The following locations will close Tuesday, September 18, 2007 @ 12:00 noon: Region II (Eastern Region) Bellevue (FWD) Lethbridge (FWD) Port Rexton (FWD) 2. Upon receipt of $11.40 (HST INCLUDED) in the form of a CHEQUE, MONEY ORDER OR BANK DRAFT MADE PAYABLE TO NEWFOUNDLAND EXCHEQUER – NO CASH, the Tender Documents and any requirements may be purchased ay Tendering and Contracts, Transportation and Works, Ground floor, East Block, Confederation Building, St. John’s NL, A1B 4J6, Ph. 709-729-3786. 3. Tenders must be submitted and delivered in sealed envelopes and addressed to the Deputy Minister, Department of Transportation and Works, Tendering and Contracts Division, Transportation and Works, Ground Floor, East Block, Confederation Building, St. John’s, NL, A1B 4J6, prior to noon on the Tender Closing Date listed in the Tender Notice. The words “TENDER FOR LOADING EQUIPMENT” and the tender closing date shall be written across the face of the envelope. 4. A bid security deposit of a certified cheque, money order, bank draft or bonding acceptable to the Department in the amount of $3000.00 FOR EACH LOCATION TENDERED and payable to the Department of Transportation and Works must be submitted with each tender. 5. The Department does not bind itself to accept the lowest or any tender.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND WORKS PUBLIC NOTICE TENDER FOR SNOW CLEARING EQUIPMENT PROJECT NO. 92-07 PMC 1. Sealed tenders are invited for the Supply of Equipment (Operator Required) for the purpose of clearing snow from highways under the control of the Department of Transportation and Works in the areas serviced by the work unit headquarters at the locations listed. All equipment must be registered in accordance with the Highway Traffic Act and must meet all Motor Vehicle Regulations of the Act. The following locations will close Thursday, September 20, 2007 @ 12:00 noon: Avondale Lower Island Cove Whitbourne Harbour Grace Baie Verte A Baie Verte B
Springdale Roberts Arm La Scie Port aux Basques Tompkins A Tompkins B
St. George’s A St. George’s B Roddickton St. Anthony
2. UPON RECEIPT OF $11.40 (HST INCLUDED)- in the form of a CHEQUE, MONEY ORDER OR BANK DRAFT MADE PAYABLE TO NEWFOUNDLAND EXCHEQUER- NO CASH, the Tender Documents and any requirements may be purchased at Tendering and Contracts, Transportation and Works, Ground Floor, East Block, Confederation Building, St. John’s, NL, A1B 4J6. Ph.709-729-3786. 3. Tenders must be submitted and delivered in sealed envelopes addressed to the Deputy Minister, Department of Transportation and Works, Tendering and Contracts Division, Ground Floor, Confederation Building East, St. John’s, NL, A1B 4J6, prior to noon on the Tender Closing Date listed in this Tender Notice. The Words “TENDER FOR SNOW CLEARING EQUIPMENT” and the tender closing date shall be written across the face of the envelope. 4. A bid security deposit of a certified cheque, money order, bank draft or bonding acceptable to the Department in the amount of $3000.00 FOR EACH LOCATION TENDERED and payable to the Department of Transportation and Works must be submitted with each tender. 5. The Department does not bind itself to accept the lowest or any tender, Hon. John Hickey Minister Transportation and Works
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND WORKS PUBLIC NOTICE TENDER FOR WINTER MAINTENANCE EQUIPMENT PROJECT NO. 93-07 PMW 1. Sealed tenders are invited for the supply of a Tandem Axle Truck equipped with a One way Snow Plow Blade, Snow Levelling Wing and Ice Control Spreader and a Loader (minimum 130 H.P.) equipped with a Quick Hook-up Blade, Wing, Bucked and 10 Cubic Metre Snow Basket (One Operator Required). This is required for the purpose of clearing snow, loading materials into equipment and dispensing ice control materials on roads under the control of the Department of Transportation and Works in the areas serviced by the work unit headquarters at the location listed. All equipment must be registered in accordance with the Highway Traffic Act and must meet all Motor Vehicle Regulations of the Act. The following location will close Thursday, September 20, 2007 @12:00 noon: Contract No. WMEQ08401
Location: Peter Strides River, Burgeo Road
2. UPON RECEIPT OF $11.40 (HST INCLUDED)- in the form of a CHEQUE, MONEY ORDER OR BANK DRAFT MADE PAYABLE TO NEWFOUNDLAND EXCHEQUER – NO CASH, the Tender Documents and any requirements may be purchased at Tendering and Contracts, Transportation and Works, Ground Floor, East Block, Confederation Building, St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6. Ph. 709-729-3786.
Hon. John Hickey Minister Transportation and Works
3. Tenders must be submitted and delivered in sealed envelopes addressed to the Deputy Minister, Department of Transportation and Works, Ground Floor, Confederation Building East, St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6, prior to noon on the Tender Closing Date listed on this Tender Notice. The Words “TENDER FOR WINTER MAINTENANCE EQUIPMENT” and the tender closing date shall be written across the face of the envelope.
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION INVITATION TO TENDER
4. A bid security deposit of a certified cheque, money order, bank draft or bonding acceptable to the Department in the amount of $3000.00 and payable to the Department of Transportation and Works must be submitted with each tender.
Tenders will be received up to the dates and times indicated below for the following projects:
5. The Department does not bind itself to accept the lowest or any tender.
A/PROJECT # 400335001 – Roof Replacement/Repairs, Leary’s Brook Junior High School, St. John’s, NL. PURCHASE PRICE: $22.80 CLOSING DATE: SEPTEMBER 19, 2007 @ 3:00 PM B/PROJECT # 300149001 – Roof Replacement/Repairs, King Academy, Harbour Breton, NL. PURCHASE PRICE: $22.80 CLOSING DATE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2007 @ 3:00 PM C/PROJECT # 200082001 – Roof Replacement/Repairs, Pasadena Elementary, Pasadena, NL. PURCHASE PRICE: $22.80 CLOSING DATE: SEPTEMBER 17, 2007 @ 3:00 PM Upon receipt of the purchase price indicated above, (NON REFUNDABLE, HST INCLUDED) plans and specifications may be obtained from Tendering and Contracts, Ground Floor, East Block, Confederation Building, St. John’s, NL. A1B 4J6, Ph# 709-729-3786, Fax # 709-7296729, and viewed at the offices of the Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association. Tenders addressed to the Deputy Minister of Transportation and Works must be delivered to Tendering and Contracts at the address above and be submitted on forms and in sealed envelopes provided, clearly marked as to the contents. Tenders will be opened immediately after the tender closing time. The Department does not bind itself to accept the lowest or any tender. Hon. Joan Burke Minister Dept. of Education DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND WORKS INVITATION TO TENDER Tenders will be received up to the dates and times indicated below for the following projects: A/PROJECT # 110705018 – Furnace replacement, Hangar # 3, St. John’s Airport, St. John’s, NL. PURCHASE PRICE: $11.40 CLOSING DATE: SEPTEMBER 17, 2007 @ 3:00 PM B/PROJECT # 510505034 – Fuel oil tank replacement, Public Building Wabush, NL. PURCHASE PRICE: $11.40 CLOSING DATE: SEPTEMBER 17, 2007 @ 3:00 PM C/PROJECT # 085-07PSR – Repairs to Argentia Dump Overpass, km 1.9, Route 100-11, NL. PURCHASE PRICE: $22.80 CLOSING DATE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2007 @ 12:00 NOON D/PROJECT # 094-07PMB – Site preparation work and salt storage facility foundation installation at Doyles Maintenance Depot, NL. PURCHASE PRICE: $22.80 CLOSING DATE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2007 @ 12:00 NOON Upon receipt of the purchase price indicated above, (NON REFUNDABLE, HST INCLUDED) plans and specifications may be obtained from Tendering and Contracts, Ground Floor, East Block, Confederation Building, St. John’s, NL. A1B 4J6, Ph# 709-729-3786, Fax # 709-7296729, the Regional Director, Transportation &Works, Building # 86, Happy Valley Goose Bay, Labrador, A0P 1E0, Ph# 709-896-7840, Fax # 709-896-5513 (PROJECT B ONLY), and viewed at the offices of the Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association. Tenders addressed to the Deputy Minister of Transportation & Works must be delivered to Tendering and Contracts at the address above and be submitted on forms and in sealed envelopes provided, clearly marked as to the contents. Tenders will be opened immediately after the tender closing time. The Department does not bind itself to accept the lowest or any tender. Hon. John Hickey Minister Transportation & Works
Hon. John Hickey Minister Transportation and Works
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND WORKS PUBLIC NOTICE TENDER FOR WINTER MAINTENANCE EQUIPMENT PROJECT NO. 96-07 PMW 1. Sealed tenders are invited for the supply of a Tandem Axle Truck (Operator Required) equipped with a One Way Snow Blade, Sow Leveling Wing and Ice Control Spreader for the purpose of clearing snow and dispensing ice control materials on roads under the control of the Department of Transportation and Works. The Equipment is required to be stationed at Wild Cove (near Corner Brook) Newfoundland, however it must be available to travel and to perform the same work within the boundaries of the Western Region of the Department of Transportation and Works at any time during the contract period. All equipment must be registered in accordance with the Highway Traffic Act and must meet all Motor Vehicle Regulations of the Act. The following location will close Thursday, September 20, 2007 @ 12:00 noon: Contract No. WMEQ08402
Location Wild Cove (Near Corner Brook)
2. UPON RECEIPT OF $11.40 (HST INCLUDED) – in the form of a CHEQUE OR MONEY ORDER OR BANK DRAFT MADE PAYABLE TO NEWFOUNDLAND EXCHEQUER – NO CASH, the Tender Documents and any requirements may be purchased at Tendering & Contracts, Transportation and Works, Ground Floor, East Block, Confederation Building, St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6. Ph.709-729-3786. 3. Tenders must be submitted and delivered in sealed envelopes and addressed to the Deputy Minister, Department of Transportation and Works, Tendering and Contracts Division, Ground Floor, East Block, Confederation Building, St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6 prior to noon on the Tender Closing Date listed in this Tender Notice. The Words “TENDER FOR WINTER MAINTENANCE EQUIPMENT” and the tender closing date shall be written across the face of the envelope. 4. A bid security deposit of a certified cheque, money order, bank draft or bonding acceptable to the Department in the amount of $3000.00 and payable to the Department of Transportation and Works must be submitted with the tender. 5. The Department does not bind itself to accept the lowest or any tender. Hon. John Hickey Minister Transportation and Works
AUGUST 31, 2007
INDEPENDENTBUSINESS • 19
Costly inspector issues After numerous setbacks, restaurant owner gives up on Patriot By John Rieti The Independent
A
s owner of one of the province’s top restaurants, Alfred Hynes wanted to be a Newfoundland patriot. But instead he’s leaving the island for Toronto, fed up with building inspectors from the City of St. John’s. “I thought it was a great project. The whole concept of Patriot was Newfoundland pre-1949 food, art and history … it reflected who we are and why we’re here,” Hynes tells The Independent. He knew it was a gamble to sell Aqua, his successful Water Street restaurant. But the chance to renovate an abandoned building in a run-down area of Water Street west appealed to him. Hynes says he met with the city before starting Patriot, and asked for co-operation in getting the restaurant completed. But numerous setbacks left him questioning whether the city was out to get him. “These inspectors are uneducated, vicious, vindictive, not accountable … they have no one to answer to, and I thought ‘oh my God, this is going to turn into a nightmare’ and sure enough it did,” says Hynes. “I find such a comment offensive, to be honest,” says Dave Blackmore, the city’s director of buildings and property management. “As long as you’re willing to work with us, we’re willing to work with you.” Blackmore says the building inspectors he supervises have one role: to enforce the fire and safety provisions of the national building code and other building requirements to ensure the saftey of patrons and workers. “A lot of times individual owners who are not familiar with construction will run into problems because they don’t have a familiarity with construction. They know what they want to do, but they don’t necessarily know the codes,” says Blackmore. Hynes successfully ran two restaurants in Toronto and renovated several houses there with no problems. In St. John’s, he opened a bed and breakfast and worked on houses. A steel staircase, inset with Newfoundland slate, was going to be the highlight of the 2,000-square-foot,
Liberals eye economy as election issue
L
ess than a year ago, the federal Liberals believed they would be fighting the next election on the environment, but many now say the economy could be the sleeper issue, particularly in Ontario. Liberal MPs say they have been picking up nervous signals this summer from economy-watchers and ordinary citizens — fears about a recession and about the losses in manufacturing jobs, and anxieties about the Canadian economy suffering effects from the market meltdowns in the United States. “We’ve been touring around, and just beneath the prosperity, there’s genuine anxiety in the country about the economic future in Central Canada,” deputy Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff said Aug. 29 as the Liberal caucus met in St. John’s. Ignatieff and Liberal Leader Stéphane Dion said Stephen Harper’s Conservatives — with their free-market approach — are ill-placed to play any constructive role in insulating Canadians from economic damage. “We think the government has a role to play. It’s clear the manufacturing sector is struggling in this country,” Dion said. “We don’t see an inch of a strategy from this government.” “I see nothing in these free-market guys,” Ignatieff said. “For them, the government is always the problem. And Canadians have always thought that government can be the solution.” A large part of Dion’s appeal to last year’s Liberal leadership race rested on his credentials as an environmentalist. He has never held an economic portfolio in his past cabinet experience, while Harper is an economist by training. That doesn’t bode particularly well for the Liberals in any election revolving around the economy. Nonetheless, the Liberals built a strong economic track record in their years in power, and Dion would no doubt lean on that past to assure voters the economy was safe in Liberal hands. Dion acknowledged that Canadians need to hear more from the Liberals. “They want to know more about us,” he said, promising that the party would be fleshing out its ideas in more substance in coming weeks. — Torstar wire service
three-storey Patriot. The staircase cost him $12,000, and was initially OK’d in the building’s plan. After installation, one inspector approved it. But four days later a second inspector deemed it to be a fire hazard and had it taken out. Hynes estimates the change cost him $20,000. “Inspectors need to be accountable for their actions, and they aren’t at all,” says Hynes, who notes in Toronto he dealt with one inspector per project, and they never overruled one another. “I’m not sure (the St. John’s experience) is in the best interests of the small-business person who’s spending his livelihood to create something … that someone can override another’s decision and not have a discussion about it,” says Hynes. Blackmore says the staircase was rejected because Hynes didn’t stick to the initial plans during construction. “There was a lot of work done in that building without correct knowledge. Things were done that had to be undone, plans were approved and then
subsequently changed in the field,” says Blackmore. He says he understands the frustration owners feel when their plans have to be changed, but any building in the city must have a permit and inspection. His says his department deals with thousands of questions each year surrounding building codes. Blackmore says Hynes had full access to his department at all times, and ample opportunity to discuss the inspectors’ findings to help resolve construction problems. Hynes says when he complained, things got worse. He says he bought a $3,000 air circulation unit, which the city approved in the building plan, but then an inspector reconsidered and made him upgrade to a $12,000 system. Hynes was going to spend $700 on a 24-hour fire monitoring system, but he says the city made him buy more expensive equipment which cost him another $5,000. “We don’t require you to buy anything of any particular price,” says
Alfred Hynes
Blackmore, who notes the technology must only meet national standards. Hynes gave up after sinking $240,000 into Patriot. He says even the most simple construction tasks such as insulating third-floor walls — something he’d done numerous times in the past — took three tries. He says if he had followed the city’s demands the project would have cost $350,000, an “insane” amount of money to invest in a small restaurant. Blackmore recommends anyone building or renovating — particularly
Paul Daly/The Independent
in the old area of downtown — to “hire professionals who are familiar with construction requirements.” He says other building and restaurant owners have suffered similar setbacks this summer. Hynes says he hopes travelling to Toronto will allow him to step back and appreciate what he loves about Newfoundland again, but he’s doubtful he will ever do business in St. John’s again. john.rieti@theindependent.ca
20 • INDEPENDENTBUSINESS
AUGUST 31, 2007
EVENTS
Submit your events to Kayla Email: kayla.joy@theindependent.ca Phone: (709) 726-INDY (4639) Fax: (709) 726-8499
FRIDAY, AUGUST 31 • The Admirals Feast dinner theatre, The Colonnade, St. John’s, 576-2779. • Drawing in Ink workshop with Boydd Chubbs, previous skills required, Anna Templeton Centre for Craft Art and Design, St. John’s, 739-7623. • The Gill’s Dinner Theatre and a Show, Episode 53, The Seabird Theatre Festival, The Theatre, Newtown, 7 p.m., also showing Sept. 1, 1-866NLPLAYS. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 • Final showing of First View of the Sea by Tramore Productions, Cuslett Art Center, Placentia Bay, 8 p.m., 337-2104. • Tour de Shore 2007, two-day cycling event, Riverhead, St. Mary’s Bay to Goulds, www.tourdeshore.ca. • Flea market, St. Paul’s school gym, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., all donations are greatly appreciated and can be dropped off throughout the week, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. • The Uprising, retelling the events of the St. John’s Irish uprising of 1800, for children and adults of all ages, Quidi Vidi Battery, St. John’s, 2 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 • Viking to Vinland Half Marathon, L’Anse aux Meadows, 623-2018, www.valhalla-lodge.com. • The French Guy Art Show, paintings by Alain Potrel, Distortion Night Club, St. John’s, 8 p.m. • Honky Tonk Night at The Fat Cat, George Street, with Boobie Browne and the Cowan Mountain Boys, 9:30 p.m. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 • Thomas Amusements at Power Sports Field, Deer Lake, Sept. 3-5. • Teddy Bear Picnic, Kinsmen Park, Happy ValleyGoose Bay, 1-4 p.m., rain venue will be E.J. Broomfield Memorial Arena. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 • The Newfoundland and Labrador Arts Council at the Holiday Inn, Stephenville, 7 p.m. • Write Naturally, creative writing workshop with author JoAnne Soper-Cook, for individuals 18+, 579-1681. • Sizzlin’ and Stylin’ Salsa classes, Bella Vista, 26 Torbay Rd., 7-10 p.m.
Newfoundland’s fastpitch softball teams were faring — and swinging — well at the Labatt national championships in St. John’s this week.
Colonnade, St. John’s, 576-2779. • When Larry Met Sally the Girl from the Bay, Majestic Theatre, 390 Duckworth St., St. John’s, 579-3023.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 • Seaside Slam Tour at the ReMax Centre, St. John’s, 7:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 • Newfoundland Equestrian Association provincial horse show, also Sept. 22-23, St. John’s, 726-0826, free admission. • Fall plant sale, MUN Botanical Gardens, Mt. Scio Road, St. John’s, 10 a.m. • Doors Open St. John’s, 24 great sites opening their doors for public viewing free of charge, including the Government House, the Fluvarium, and many others, visit www.doorsopendays.com. • Giant flea market, 10 a.m., High Street, Grand Falls-Windsor. • The Will and Greg Show: new work by Will Gill and Greg Bennett, opening 3-5 p.m., Leyton Gallery of Fine Art.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 • The Admirals Feast dinner theatre, The
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 • Introduction to Buddhism presented by St. John’s
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 • Maggie Meyer at Folk Night, Ship Pub, 9:30 p.m. • The Newfoundland and Labrador Arts Council at the Glynmill Inn, Tudor Room, Corner Brook, 7 p.m. • Lunch and Learn, growing orchids as houseplants with Todd Boland, research horticulturalist, 121:45 p.m., MUN Botanical Garden, Mt. Scio Road, 737-8590 to register.
Shambhala Meditation Group, 1-4 p.m., The Lantern, 35 Barnes Rd., St. John’s, 754-6962. • Gordon Quinton, guitarist/composer, performing original compositions of traditional and contemporary folk music, The Gerald Squires Gallery, 52 Prescott St., St. John’s, 2-5 p.m. UPCOMING EVENTS • Bridget Mulrooney Memorial Golf Tournament, in aid of the Children’s Wish Foundation, The Wilds, Salmonier Line, 2 p.m., Sept. 14. • Walk for Life and Family Fun Day, presented by the Right to Life Association, Legion Hall, The Boulevard, Quidi Vidi Lake, St. John’s, Sept. 15, 579-1500. • Big Land Fair, annual fall harvest festival, E.J. Broomfield Memorial Arena, Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Sept. 15. • TD Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup, join 40,000 Canadians to remove harmful debris from local shorelines, 1-877-427-2422, Sept 18. • Affinity Group Process, 10 week process to help release emotional blockages and fears and connect to love and acceptance, www.lifeonfire.ca, 6931624, Sept. 18. • Reading by Tina Chaulk, author of This Much is True, A.C. Hunter Adult Library, St. John’s, 7 p.m., Sept. 19. • Mapping the Crossroads, six-week course to work with a life coach and supportive teams to reach goals and dreams, www.lifeonfire.ca, 6931624, Sept. 20. • Eyes Across the Province: Newfoundland and Labrador’s Invasive Alien Species, workshop, MUN Botanical Garden, Mt. Scio Road, St. John’s, Sept. 22, registration required, 737-8590. • The Fables, St. John’s Arts and Culture Centre, Sept. 22, Gander Arts and Culture Centre, Sept. 24, Gordon Pinsent Centre for the Arts, Grand Falls-Windsor, Sept. 25, Labrador West Arts and Culture Centre, Sept. 27, Corner Brook Arts and Culture Centre, Sept. 28, Stephenville Arts and Culture Centre, Sept. 29. • AIDS Walk for Life, Quidi Vidi Lake, St. John’s, Sept. 23. • Evening with Margaret Trudeau in recognition of Mental Illness Awareness Week, Trudeau will share her personal story of recovery, the Fairmont, Oct. 1. • Reign: YC 2007, annual youth convention featuring renowned music guests and speakers, Mile One Centre, St. John’s, Oct. 5-7, www.ycnewfoundland.org. • CLB Band Reunion, CLB Armoury, Harvey Road, St. John’s, Oct. 11, 747-5701 or 579-4800. • St. Michael’s Printshop invites submissions from printmakers to apply for a one month residency at St. Michael’s Printshop, 72 Harbour Dr.,
Nicholas Langor/ The Independent
St. John’s, application deadline Oct. 31. ONGOING • Easter Seals seeking clothes donations, including overalls, rubber boots, fleece jackets, pajama bottoms and tops, wigs, mannequins, and canes, and volunteers over 16 years of age for Harbour Haunt 2007, contact Amanda, 754-1399, or apply at www.easterseals.nf.ca. • All ’Round the Circle dinner theatre, The Collonade, 6 East Dr., Pleasantville, every Wednesday – Friday, 690-9929. • The Rooms, St. John’s, free admission Wednesday nights, 6-9 p.m., www.therooms.ca. • Roller skating, Mile One Centre, St. John’s, age 18 and up, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8-10 p.m. • Gros Morne Theatre Festival, Main Street, Cow Head, until Sept. 15, 1-877-243-2899, www.theatrenewfoundland.com/gmtf.html. • Occupied St. John’s (book), wartime St. John’s oral history project, sponsored by the Paul Johnson Family Foundation, interviewees needed, contact 747-4113, or email k_ohare@alcor.concordia.ca. IN THE GALLERIES • Wildflowers of Newfoundland and Labrador, works by Dorothy Black, The Rooms Atrium, St. John’s, throughout summer. • The Battery: People of the Changing Outport tells the story of The Battery, of dramatic social, cultural and economic changes occurring in many outport communities, The Rooms, St. John’s, until Sept. 3. • Two Artists Time Forgot, highlighting the achievements of Margaret Campbell MacPherson and Francis Jones Bannerman, The Rooms, St. John’s, until Sept. 3. • Building a Boat Before Your Eyes, Jerome Canning’s construction of a Rodney from stem to stern, The Rooms, St. John’s, until Sept. 3. Schedule available at www.therooms.ca/museum. • Newfoundland a Place Called Home, clay sculpture exhibition depicting life for a Newfoundland family before Confederation, second floor Heritage Shop, 309 Water St., St. John’s, free admission, until Sept. 10. • Brian Jungen’s Vienna, giant sculpture in the form of a pristine whale skeleton suspended from the gallery’s cathedral ceiling, The Rooms, St. John’s, until Sept. 16. • Finest Kind: Objects of Identity, sampling display of Newfoundland’s stories of nationhood, World War I, and life on the land and sea through artifacts, artwork, images and documents, The Rooms, level 2, St. John’s, until Sept. 16. • Natural Energies by Anne Meredith Barry (1931–2003), including 90 works created since 1982, The Rooms, St. John’s, until Sept. 30.
INDEPENDENTLIFE
FRIDAY THROUGH THURSDAY, AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 6, 2007 — PAGE 21
Stéphane Dion at the Fairmont Newfoundland hotel.
Nicholas Langor/The Independent
An Innocent in Versailles-on-Circular Writer Susan Rendell drops by a party for Stephane Dion and the Liberal caucus, and encounters the improbable: intelligent, honest politicians and a surprisingly charismatic Liberal leader
SUSAN RENDELL Screed and coke You may say I'm a dreamer But I'm not the only one — John Lennon
T
he first thing I notice when I get to Bartra, Paul Antle and Renee Marquis’ home on Circular Road, is the complete lack of security. It’s a little after seven on a Monday evening; in half an hour or so, Liberal Leader Stéphane Dion will be arriving, along with most of his caucus and even some senators.
Indeed, many are already inside. A short, thick-set young man is standing beside the driveway. I expect him to ask my name and pull out a cellphone, check me out with the person inside who has the list of invitees. Instead, he just smiles and says “Antles’.” I smile back and say “Terrorist.” The young man suddenly looks doleful, so I add, affably, “Well, every party should have one, don’t you think?” He brightens up, nods; I pass by. Two press cameramen flank me without saying a word; they silently record my progress toward the house. I feel a little surrealistic, as if I’ve fallen down Alice’s rabbit hole, stepped through the Looking Glass. The feeling intensifies as soon as I hit the foyer. A rather aggressive version of Chattan-
ooga Choo Choo is coming from somewhere (everywhere), as though some bigband lunatic has gotten loose in Versailles. Well, Bartra isn’t exactly Versailles, but its interior has definitely been influenced by notions of pomp and circumstance. I don’t think there are this many gilt frames in the Louvre; also, I now know what happened to the Black Forest. They said it was acid rain, but I’m betting it’s all right here, dead but beautifully sculpted. I go through a mental list — baroque, rococo, neo-classical, Greek revival, Empire? A mix? (Later on, former CBC host Anne Budgell solves my dilemma. “This isn’t a house, it’s a museum. I mean, can you imagine living here?” Yes. But mostly no.) One whole room is devoted to desserts, cakes shaped like
plum puddings in particular. It’s like a Victorian Christmas fantasy, right down to the red candlesticks and mini-thrones upholstered in red velvet. The guests contrast starkly with their environment. I was told it was a cocktail party, and have attired myself accordingly. Well, not strictly accordingly: little black dress, rhinestone bracelet, yes, but I don’t like my clothes to get too serious. So I’ve punished my rather severe frock with a pair of “jewelled” sneaker-shoes, a small vintage ’50s feathered and sequined headpiece and a Chinese shawl (peacocks and beads). Everyone else, however, appears to have dressed for either a board meeting or a barbecue. I am the sole refugee from Cirque du Soleil. (I shrug internally: age
has its perks. One perk, anyway: a rhino skin membrane over the ego). An attempt to avoid the temptations of meat — platters of fois gras and Cajunstyle beef keep sailing by (and hovering) — lands me in a room the size of my house. There I meet a man whose face looks as if it has been carved from an oak tree. He is Willie Adams, the senator from Nunavut. His wife, Mary Hands, is beside him. How pretty, I say. She thinks I’m referring to her purse, but I mean her strawberry daiquiri. The purse is the same colour, so I tell her, yes, it’s pretty too. (So is her name; although I bet that first day of school was rough.) Adams is the longest serving member See “The trust,” page 26
AUGUST 31, 2007
22 • INDEPENDENTLIFE
GALLERYPROFILE
SHEILA HOLLANDER Visual Artist
S
heila Hollander giggles a little as she reveals the guiding principle behind the intricate storybook scenes she paints with acrylic on canvas. It isn’t a deeply analytical foray into perspective and art theory, but it is appropriately enlightening when viewing the artist’s bustling scenes of traditional Newfoundland outport life. “I like all kinds of art and I love to look at children’s books. Richard Scary is my favourite artist. I just think he’s so detailed and so busy,” she laughs. The Corner Brook artist has been perfecting her scenes of schooners returning with fish from the Labrador or winter sleighs transporting passengers on snowy paths since 1991. It was at that point she felt brave enough to approach the Ewing Gallery in her hometown about selling her work. She brought along her sister for moral support. “She said, ‘Sheila, if you say anything negative about your work I’ll kick you in the ankle.’ She never did kick me.” Hollander has since gone on to show in several galleries full time — including the Red Ochre Gallery in St. John’s and Hunky Dory in Winter House Brook in Gros Morne National Park — and some seasonal shops. She also snagged the commission to paint a mural for the recently revamped St. John’s International Airport. She heard about the competition on the radio, was chosen out of about 300 entries, and painted an outport scene she “just made up.” She says it represents the province’s past in a building functioning as a gateway to its future. Based on images Hollander says she “tucks away in her brain” from her travels around the island and Labrador, work such as A Bonavista Summer is a distillation of a rural community and the activities therein. Fishing vessels and dories
move in and out of port, men gather to yarn at the stores, and residents tend to vegetable gardens. Each nook and cranny of the rolling topography and finger harbours yields a snippet of rural life — a sort of Where’s Waldo of traditional Newfoundland customs, if you will. Hollander’s interest in the homestead lifestyle originates from childhood visits to the community of Champney’s, Trinity Bay. Her parents had settled in the U.S. but returned to visit her father’s mother while on holiday. Hollander says it was a “wonderful time” and she never forgot the cows in the paths and the chickens and horses roaming freely. But it was the different perspective that resonated with her the most. “In Indiana we had television, we had electricity, my dad had a car, we had indoor plumbing and (in Champney’s) they had chambers under the beds and my dad’s was the only car in the community. They thought that was a big deal and I thought, ‘That’s not a big deal — your rowboat is a big deal.’” Although Hollander describes her work as “childish maybe, or naïve” she says it has also been referred to as folk art. She says she doesn’t mind what anyone calls it, as long as people like it. And they do. Hollander has been selling mostly to people visiting the province from away and is currently working on two new commissions, a coastal scene for a local fan and a mummer piece for a woman in western Canada. Working six hours a day, every day — whether she wants to or not — Hollander says she must paint and laughingly refers to her passion as a sickness. She says she’s stayed true to the way she wants to paint, not concerning herself with colour rules or perspective. As a creative person, focusing on her “dense with activity” story scenes, working square inch by square inch, makes her happy. “Otherwise you’re frustrated and you go crazy.” mandy.cook@theindependent.ca
AUGUST 31, 2007
INDEPENDENTLIFE • 23
Travellin’ songs Fiddler Alison Corbett travels to Texas to hone violin skills from country star By John Rieti The Independent
A
s she waited for a flight, violin case at her feet, a man sauntered up to Alison Corbett with a request. “Hey, darlin’ play us a tune,” he drawled. “I thought he was some Texas oil guy … he had a big Stetson and I was a little skeptical,” Corbett tells The Independent. She politely declined, but he asked again. “Can I join your band?” the man continued. “I play the drums, I play with (country music legend) Charley Pride.” The man turned out to be Derek Spigener, and he quickly introduced Corbett to the rest of his Dallas, Texasbased band The Insiders, including lead singer and fiddler Reggie Rueffer. “Generally I’ll talk to someone or trust them if they have an instrument in their hand,” says Corbett, who exchanged contacts with Rueffer. They swapped music online and sent e-mails, and in June Corbett travelled to Texas for five days to take violin lessons from Rueffer, a trip paid for by MusicNL. The most important thing he taught her was to play the violin emotionally. “There’s a definite feel … if you’re not feeling a song it’s really hard to play it, you have to have the song in your head and a feel for it in your body before it comes out of your fingers,” says Corbett. Rueffer instructed her to play the violin like a steel guitar — that way it sounds like an orchestra, not just a single violin. Daily practices consisted of learning songs and listening to country’s greats. The sessions would often end with the pair playing Bartok duets, as both fiddlers were classically trained before branching into country and folk. In the evenings, Corbett would watch Rueffer and The Insiders play at Pearl’s, a bar she describes as straight out of the Wild West days. She admits being taken aback by people calling her “baby” and “darlin’” as she learned the two-step. “Although I guess it’s the same as being called ‘me duckie,’ ” Corbett says with a laugh. “Texas is a lot like Newfoundland in terms of culture, a lot of drinking on the porch, eating … it’s very open and inviting,” she says. “As soon as the
Alison Corbett at The Rooms in St. John’s.
music started people were out dancing right away.” She says next time he visits, Rueffer is in for a good, traditional kitchen party. Corbett’s recent American trip began with a stint in New York City, where she happily loaned her violin — made in Venice in 1923 — to a local band, and got to work with John Ventimigliano, who acted in the Sopranos and is recording a musical based on the life of Jack Kerouac. Corbett did some recording in Ventimigliano’s studio, and is hoping to help with some more orchestration of his project.
Paul Daly/The Independent
From New York she took a Greyhound bus to Texas, driving through the famous music cities of Memphis and Nashville, although, she says, the drive was all highways and rain, not the romantic ride she had envisioned. She kept a map with her throughout the trip, recording her route with a thick black marker and often pointing out her home to people — even though the map only showed the southeast tip of the island. Since returning to St. John’s earlier this week, Corbett hasn’t been able to sleep. At four in the morning she’s awake, writing songs heavily influ-
Raising the bar Musicians and bar owners open discussion about downtown working conditions
T
his week members of the Musician’s Association (good old Local 820) were scheduled to have a sit-down with a group of bar owners to talk about working conditions, gig times, contracts and a host of other concerns. Great idea. In fact, I couldn’t believe no one had tried this before. Musicians in Newfoundland and Labrador have two very active organizations — the association and MUSICNL — to speak for them, and we’ve all heard plenty recently about concerns ranging from the smoking ban to safety. If musicians and bar owners are ready to pull together on some key problems everyone, including you, could stand to benefit. First off, there’s the nagging problem of late start times for gigs. The norm is now 11 p.m., and 11:30 or midnight is not uncommon. For a hefty chunk of the music-listening public that’s just too late, and with bands playing until 3 a.m. (or later), a growing number of musicians are complaining about the strain the late nights put on them and their families. People have a variety of opinions on acceptable times, but it seems like a 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. standard is the one a lot of musicians favour. By getting the live music on and off a little earlier, bars and bands could stand to pick up a whole new crowd — many of them slightly older patrons who wouldn’t mind dropping the VISA on the bar and buying fancier (read: more expensive) drinks. Obviously you can’t introduce time changes and expect the bar-going public to adjust its behaviour overnight. It’s going to take a while. How long? That’s the problem. Nobody knows. Like all businesses, bars thrive on consistency. The object is to get a clientele coming in and keep them there week in and week out. Change something up — staff, hours, anything — and you do run the risk that your confused customers will toddle off to one of the hundreds of other watering holes, never to spend a dime in yours ever again. As with other big upheavals, such as the smoking ban, it’s the smaller operators who are most at risk here. The really huge George Street institutions can probably weather the storm if things go awry for a month or two, but a lengthy transition period could spell trouble for everyone else. That being said, the smoking ban didn’t seem to bring on the apocalypse the bar owners prophesied, so this probably won’t either — especial-
SEAN PANTING
State of the art ly if the earlier times prove as popular with customers as its proponents predict. The use of contracts in setting up bar shows is another major topic of discussion. Right now, gigs are generally booked on a handshake. Bands agree to play either for whatever gets collected in cover (that’s “playing for the door” in musician speak) or for a guaranteed wage. Costs like advertising, sound equipment and the like may or may not be covered by the bar owner and all that gets negotiated on a case-bycase basis as well. Getting agreements in writing would theoretically do away with a bunch of familiar woes. Musicians would have protection against having gigs cancelled at the last minute or bar owners crying poor after a bad night. Owners would have some assurance that bands show up, start at a reasonable hour, and don’t take set breaks that last an hour and a half. It’s a good idea, certainly. The only potential snag is enforcement. In order for a contract system to work there will have to be consequences for those who fail to live up to bargains they make. Musicians who are members of the Musicians Association could be fined or censured for failing to live up to agreements, but right now only a tiny fraction of gigging musicians are members. Organizations like the George Street Bar Owners’ Association might or might not be convinced to police their own. Very few people on either side of the equation have the resources to run around suing each other for breach of contract, and if we’re looking to improve on the current system, that’s not a road we want to go down anyway. None of this is to say it’s an impossible or unworkable system. It’s how business gets done all over the world every day, so chances are we can make a go of it here as well. The important thing is that musicians and bar owners keep working co-operatively to improve the situation for everyone concerned. More power to them for giving it a shot. Sean Panting is a writer, musician and actor living in St. John’s. His column returns Sept. 14.
enced by her travels. Corbett has numerous musical projects to play the tunes with. She plays solo under the name Black Molly, and in bands including White Tara, the klezmer group Da B’ys in the Shtetl, and the Cowan Mountain Boys who play honky-tonk tunes at the Fat Cat. She’s also starting her master’s degree in ethnomusicology at Memorial University, from which she already received a bachelor’s in music in history and literature. The youngest of five daughters and the only one still living in the province, Corbett says she wants to stay on the St. John’s scene while she
can, and she’s confident there will be more opportunities in the future. Paraphrasing Woody Allen, she says 95 per cent is showing up, but “you have to be able to do something when you’re there,” she adds. As she stands in The Rooms museum, overlooking a sunny day in the city, she takes out her violin and within seconds her bow is sliding across the strings and bouncing joyful sounds off the giant glass windows. If she was asked to play her violin in an airport again, she’d do it in a heartbeat. john.rieti@theindependent.ca
AUGUST 31, 2007
24 • INDEPENDENTLIFE
Brown-bagging L
isa Morgan of Seal Cove is a busy, working mom with three schoolaged children. No matter how crazy her schedule is, packing lunches is an important part of her morning ritual during the school year, she says. “I pack their lunch as they eat breakfast,” she states. “That way they can have some say and offer up ideas and suggestions.” Morgan’s three children — Ben, 15, Kaylee, 13, and six-year-old Liam — are all what she labels “picky eaters,” and preparing lunches is not always simple. “The elementary years are easier because warming up leftovers are not a big deal for them then. But as they age, they become aware of what their peers are eating and that creates a whole host of challenges,” she says. Kaylee has been her biggest worry. There have been days she returns home with a lunch “hardly touched,” while the child complained of headaches and stomach pains. “She was starving when she came home so I had to find ways to encourage her to eat her lunch. Of course, you can’t make them eat if you aren’t there,” Morgan admits. “Creating a healthy lunch that they enjoy having is such a challenge,” she adds with a sigh. Morgan is not alone in her quest to make sure her children eat, and eat healthy, during the school day. But there is one meal she does oversee closely at home: breakfast.
But that doesn’t happen in all homes. No one debates the role breakfast plays in a healthy lifestyle, and Daphne LeDrew, executive director of the Kids Eat Smart Foundation, says their goal is to ensure all children attend school wellnourished and ready to learn. There are 170 Kids Eat Smart clubs operating with the help of 4,500 volunteers, servicing over 17,000 children in Newfoundland and Labrador. “Children are bused to school in this province and, especially in the rural areas, these bus rides can be lengthy,” LeDrew says. Children arrive hungry and they need to eat to learn, she stresses. While there are many reasons children are hungry, there are benefits for every child who sits down to a healthy breakfast at school. First, there are the social benefits of eating with peers. “Besides encouraging each other to try new foods — if one child tries a kiwi, for instance, someone else will usually have a taste — older children tend to help and guide the younger ones,” LeDrew says. Parents and others in the community get involved and everyone responds well to the importance of the message of healthy eating for school-aged children, LeDrew continues, stressing that good eating leads to good thinking. LeDrew says the healthy-eating message is spreading from the school back into the home and children are making better choices for themselves, but parents still need to keep a watchful eye.
AUGUST 31, 2007
INDEPENDENTLIFE • 25
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no easy task Morgan couldn’t agree more, saying she will continue packing lunches for her three children, even though her oldest is now in high school. “That way, I have more control over what they are sitting down to eat,” she says. “Packing an apple in their lunch is the same as me reminding them when they are at home to have their fruit.” ••• Melanie Colbourne is the development co-ordinator with
the Kids Eat Smart Foundation, and a registered dietician. Here are her tips on packing a healthy lunch for children as they head off to school: • Try to include foods from three or four different food groups; add cheese to a wholewheat turkey sandwich, for instance. • Make extras at meal time and turn their favourites into homemade microwavable lunches. Things like chili, stew and homemade soups can be a quick,
delicious meal at lunch. • Keep convenient, healthy food on hand to make nutritious eating easier. Canned fruit in its natural juice, and fruits and vegetables will be eaten if it is made easier to snack on. • Try to mix it up. Children can get bored easily. Provide choices and add to the options often. • Avoid sticky, sugary snacks like dried fruit. Such snacks can stick to teeth and cause problems since children are not like-
ly to brush at school. • Involve children by asking for their input. They might surprise you with their healthy suggestions. • Individual sized, pre-packaged foods are more expensive and can be less healthy. Make your own cheese and crackers and package your own vegetables. • Liquids are very important. Try freezing water bottles and juice packs. It not only provides a refreshing drink that children
are likely to enjoy, but it will also help to keep lunches fresh and cool. ••• It’s the community involvement keeps programs like Kids Eat Smart Foundation going. For more information on Kids Eat Smart visit them online at http://www.kidseatsmart.ca/ or call 709-722-1996 or 1-877722-1996. pamelamichpardy @yahoo.com
AUGUST 31, 2007
26 • INDEPENDENTLIFE
‘The trust between the Canadian people and its Liberal party is growing’ From page 21 of the Canadian senate, appointed by Trudeau in 1977. “I’ve been there for about 30 years, went through nine prime ministers,” he says. Without shooting one of them, I say. His laugh comes from the gut and ripples all over that fine face. He and Hands tell me about Nunavut, starting with the land claims agreement. “It has the fastest growing population in Canada,” Adams says. “Inuit tend to have large families,” says his wife. We used to have them, I say. This is a culture that likes children. “The Inuit like children, too,” says Hands. “They start having babies young, at 14 or 15.” She and Adams have one child; he has nine “natural” children. “Spread out across the country starting from Saskatoon,” he tells me, pride pressing his voice smooth. “Those cold, long dark winters,” he says, barely suppressing a wink. Not a sleazy wink, though. That’s pretty much the hallmark of this gathering: everyone here looks and behaves like a perfectly nice, ordinary person (albeit a particularly intelligent and upright person). There’s absolutely no “side” to these people — and not so much as a whiff of that brittle tension, that high octane, self-conscious, self-congratulatory ambience common to film and political get-togethers. Even the hip young members of the local and national press are unable to affect the suburban family party atmosphere. I’m back in the front hall now; a middle-aged blonde woman with strong features catches my attention. She turns out to be Carolyn Bennett, MP for St. Paul’s and former minister of state for public health under Paul Martin. She’s also “a member of Siobhan Coady’s fan club.” Coady, passing by, turns around and joins us. “There’s two jobs as a member of Parliament,” Bennett says. “One is to take the names of your constituents to Ottawa, the other is to take an understanding of the country back to your constituents. So, you know, I guess my feeling is that unless members of Parliament understand
the nature of people here in Newfoundland they can’t really do their job properly. And particularly what is needed here in terms of good social policy, good economic policy. Good economic policy equals good social policy.” She turns suddenly, snapping the thread of her discourse. “Here comes our fearless leader,” she says. Dion has entered as quietly as a cat. No whoops or hollers, whistles, clapping, rushing or jostling accompany his appearance. He’s just here, moving quietly, pausing briefly to speak to colleagues and supporters. I barely have time to register his presence in the house before he’s standing in front of me, holding out his hand. I give him mine, looking into his face: his eyes are polite but blank with non-recognition. Good: no grimacing smile, no fake enthusiastic “Hi there!” I like him already. He’s taller than I thought; also, more elegant, both in his dress and his carriage. A gently animated, intelligent face which seems to shimmer (partly an effect of his paleness and the TV lights). He looks more like a curate visiting his parishioners than a politician come to prance and jig. As I watch him circulate, I remember what a friend of mine who did some PR work for former premier Brian Tobin said to me: that Tobin was incapable of not looking as though he were posing for a photo op, even if there was no one else in the room. Dion’s no Tobin. A little while later, a man is standing halfway up the hall stairs. A good-looking man — the best looking man I’ve seen all evening. He’s oozing charm. But he’s also giving off something slightly sulphurous. Brian Mulroney comes to mind (I kick him out). Who’s that, I say to the woman next to me. “Michael Ignatieff.” Of course. The deputy leader. Also, a man who thought he would be in Dion’s shoes today. Ignatieff’s performance is that of the consummate politician: his stance, gestures and tone draw attention to himself even though he’s introducing Dion. (When he does, it’s with an optimistic flourish — “The next prime minister of
Stéphane Dion
Canada, Stéphane Dion.”) Dion begins by talking about the “relationship of trust” he hopes to nurture between Newfoundland and Ottawa. “It is what we will offer to them, and to all Canadians.” (Applause.) He jokes about the media, how he won’t be having any of them arrested. (Louder applause, much laughter.) “When you are in government,
Paul Daly/The Independent
the media is running after you; when you are in opposition, you are running after the media!” He says the people of this province “are great … and (here) I’m not the only one speaking English with an accent.” He thanks his caucus for working so hard over the summer: now, he says, they will be able to present the people of Canada
with “strong Liberal options, values, solutions. The trust between the Canadian people and its Liberal party is growing, is building.” Dion switches to French now, attacking Harper for his relationship with Bush, his “politique américain.” And then he descends the carved-within-an-inch-ofits-life staircase and disappears into the crowd. (I once read an interview in which a reporter questioned Dion’s charisma. Dion replied that if people could see him speak in person, they wouldn’t have any doubts on that score. He was right.) It’s time I had a drink. (Not, unfortunately, a strawberry daiquiri — I’m working.) I find Anne Budgell in the kitchen, looking relaxed and spiffy in a shimmering blouse she got for three bucks in Labrador (finally, someone else with a bit of sartorial sparkle). Behind her is something that looks like a see-through wedding cake, only it seems to be undulating. What’s that? I say. “Champagne fountain,” she says, shooting from the lip as usual. And then she takes me to the back deck and introduces me to her friend Juliet O’Neill, the Ottawa Citizen journalist who had her apartment raided by the RCMP in 2004 (the Maher Arar case). Just before we go back inside, Budgell says — abruptly and apropos of nothing — “Dreamers.” Who? I say. “Them,” she replies, with a nod towards the house. “Thinking they’re going to get seven seats here.” It’s time to go: the place is starting to look like an empty chip bag. As I leave Bartra, I have a sudden desire to sprint across to Bannerman Park and sit on the swings. I’m a little drunk on luxury and sweet rhetoric, but it’s a hollow high. How big the night is; how far away the stars seem. How small the fire of reason and good intentions lit tonight in the house behind me. A fire in the belly of the very beast that’s destroying us all: unbridled capitalism. I think of the poor woman who came to me for food money before I left for the ball, and I’m glad I didn’t eat any cake. srendell@nf.sympatico.ca
Smoke and Ruin MARK CALLANAN On the shelf St. John’s, City of Fire By Paul Butler Flanker Press, 2007. 169 pages.
“F
lame has always seemed to us either sacred or profane,” Paul Butler writes in the afterword of St. John’s, City of Fire, his non-fiction book on the three great fires endured by the province’s capital. While the same might be said of other elements (the sea’s dual role as both giver and destroyer of life being particularly relevant to our maritime culture), fire remains a more volatile force in the collective imagination. It is at once beautiful and dangerous. What’s more, it seems to have a life all its own. Beginning with the twin fires of 1817, Butler’s book guides us through the history of St. John’s conflagrations, setting them in their wider, societal and historical contexts. He has a historical novelist’s sense of the telling detail. Writing on the last of the great fires (in 1892) he refers to the edition of the Evening Telegram published on the
day the blaze began: Friday’s readers may have flicked through the first page with its ads for sacks of bran, corn, and flour, Singer sewing machines … and skipped ahead to page two where they would have found the Telegram’s “Select Story” of “Undying Love,” subtitled “Story of a Beautiful Woman,” in which Dora Dupont is scolded by Madame Alroyd for being so forward with a young man as to place a love note in a bouquet of flowers. Passages such as this help readers get a sense of the social climate of the time. But Butler is not content with mere reportage of event and aftermath. He dabbles in amateur social psychology as well, postulating that “the collective trauma of a disaster,” such as the widespread property damage caused by the great fires, can “cause arrested development” in a population. According to Butler, recognizable elements of the period in which growth was stunted can recur in the society of the future. “Does the fierce intellectual and artistic life of the Newfoundland capital owe something to that time?” Butler
asks of the late 19th century “age of self-improvement and the arts” which saw the last great fire to assault St. John’s. “Perhaps,” he writes in the very next sentence, “there were other strands of the gilded age preserved in our own era.” Perhaps, maybe, possibly — this is the language of conjecture, the arsenal of sophistry. Interesting as Butler’s ideas on the subject may be, he doesn’t do much to convince his readers; at times, it seems he is more so wondering out loud than trying to put forth coherent theories. There are many niggling mechanical problems here as well. Tenses shift in the middle of a sentence’s trajectory (“The new fire brigade, the insurance map collection eagerly notes, is not like the old one and boasted twentyfour regular firemen and 105 reserve men”); property damage is sometimes related in dollars, sometimes in pounds; clichés related to fire’s “hunger” appear with desensitizing regularity; sometimes the Latin sic is swaddled in square brackets, sometimes in parentheses. Then there are more substantial difficulties. What, for instance, are we to make of the smoking ruins of a sentence like this: “Although the element of choice is likely to have been far
greater, the St. John’s population was to be similarly thinned out in 1892 in the wake of disaster when arrangements were made to put St. John’s women into service in the US.” More often, the sentences are just plain awkward: “Stuck out as it was in the Atlantic and hundreds of miles from other major centres, St. John’s would always find recovery a particular challenge.” We get the sense of it, yes, but it certainly isn’t pretty. All that being said, Butler makes
some interesting observations. He compares the Royal Gazette’s serialized account of the 1892 fire (published in the days immediately following the disaster) to the televised news coverage of the World Trade Centre attacks. “It is as though the medium is instinctively aware that a population in trauma needs to go through events in order to process them,” he writes. His discussion of fire’s mythological associations is interesting but a bit too brief. The best parts of City of Fire are those passages quoted from the Reverend Moses Harvey who witnessed much of the 1892 fire firsthand. St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church is left with “blackened walls, shattered as with shot and shell.” Of the blaze itself, Harvey writes: “A roaring, tossing sea of fire … the crackling of burning beams; the crash of falling roofs, the roaring wind, now increased to a gale; the fierce heat and suffocating smoke … all constituted a scene which not even the pen of a Dante could describe.” Put beside this kind of crackling prose, Butler’s own seems no more substantial than smoke. Mark Callanan writes in St. John’s. His column returns September 14.
INDEPENDENTSTYLE
FRIDAY THROUGH THURSDAY, AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 6, 2007 — PAGE 27
Fashion 101 Are teachers as obsessed with back-to-school clothes as their students?
By Mandy Cook The Independent
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French teacher Melanie Stone in her back-to-school best.
Nicholas Langor/The Independent
hen recalling the image of those at the helm of our academic years, most people conjure up images of, say, a bearded high school biology teacher who wore his pants way too tight, or a junior high English teacher who favoured flowery prints more suitable for an overstuffed sofa. While the common joke is to lump the fearless intellectual leaders of our children into one shapeless, flow-y mass of “teacher’s clothes,” local class instructors say they have their own personalized approach to getting — and keeping — their students’ attention on the blackboard and not on their ensembles. Ever since St. John’s high school English and French teacher Michele Stamp was a student, she’s been keenly aware of how pupils observe their instructors and their wardrobes. One teacher in particular from her past stands out. “I had this high school teacher who wore the same white, cableknit sweater every day until October 27,” she says. “She got an ink spot on the sleeve and the next day came with it on backwards because the stain was on the other side. I decided then I would make sure to wear something fresh — because I know I would get criticized like I did to her.” Although Stamp says the extent of her back-to-school wardrobe will be to find something “clean,” she stresses it is important for teachers to wear discreet clothing, something comfortable but nothing to distract young minds from their lessons. She also says teachers can be on the receiving end of sneering once-overs by some fashion-conscious students. “If you’re talking about the kids that are the mall fashionistas, obviously that’s what’s important to them and will judge you accordingly,” she says, taking care to note not all students are preoccupied with appearances. See “I had one,” page 30
Worth more than a bucket of berries
O
utside of all things from the sea, blueberries are one of my most favourite foods. I don’t like them cooked in any duff or plopped into a pie and baked, nor am I crazy about them in jams. I just love them as they are. I buy blueberries in the off-season when I see them, but the taste always leaves me longing for August. There is nothing like a just-picked Newfoundland blueberry. While I was working in the shop one August afternoon four years ago, a young man walked in and presented
PAM PARDY GHENT
Seven-day talk me with a plastic juice tumbler filled with some of the most beautiful berries I have ever seen. Each one was round and plump and almost black. I was truly in awe that so many fat, perfect berries were found on our usually picked-over berry spots. I thanked the man, gushing over his
thoughtfulness as I tasted that first berry. I smiled at him as I savoured the sweet flavour on my tongue. He was thrilled I was so pleased and told me he had spent over an hour on the cliffs searching for only the best berries to put in that glass, knowing — as many do around here — how much I love the blue fruit. I enjoyed each berry he picked for me that day and tasted one at a time, feeling it a shame to eat so few berries by the handful. When I went home that evening I asked Blair if he would take Brody
berry picking the next day. I had to work in the shop again and I would love to have just enough to snack on, I told him. Blair grunted and I went to bed annoyed. The next evening my berries were waiting. While the riblet bucket sitting on the counter was chock full of blueberries, it was also filled with other stuff. Besides small twigs and green leaves, there was also a few white as well as rotten berries and the few large, perfect berries I saw were outnumbered by much smaller ones. As I stood staring at the bucket,
a spider crawled out of the sea of blue (and white and green and brown), scrambled over the rim of the bucket and then dashed back in, ducking under a leaf for cover. Blair didn’t understand why I was so upset. I didn’t really get it either, I just knew I was. It had something to do with value. My berry gift at the store had been a random act of kindness, while the berries Blair picked had been begged for. While Blair had picked way more See “The labour,” page 30
AUGUST 31, 2007
28 • INDEPENDENTSTYLE
Home-grown comfort Restwell only mattress manufacturer in province, prides itself in building beds to last
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estwell Mattresses has been making quality mattresses in Harbour Grace since 1991, but its story begins long before that, explains owner Robert Tetford. “I’m the third generation to be in the furniture business out here,” he says. The business opened almost a half-century ago. That kind of experience and commitment lead the family into the manufacturing business. In fact, it is the only company that makes mattresses in the province. When the railway shut down in Newfoundland, the cost to ship goods — including mattresses — went up, Tetford explains. “The lightbulb went off the day my father said it would be cheaper to make mattresses here than it was to ship them in,” he chuckles.
Naturally, Tetford explains, making mattresses here means shipping costs are reduced. It also means honouring a manufacturer’s warranty is simpler. Still, he says, the mattress business has been a “tough nut to crack” at times. “You only buy a mattress from someone you trust, so a brand name you know can make all the difference,” he says, adding that’s why getting the Restwell name out there is so important. “We use all North American components in our mattresses and we use local craftsmen. We have worked really hard at building our reputation for producing a quality mattress,” he says, stressing they make their products — both standard-size mattresses and specialty orders — to last. Tetford says while his primary mar-
Carrie Lomond works on a new mattress at Restwell’s Harbour Grace factory.
ket is residential, Restwell has made mattresses for many corporate customers.
“A Restwell mattress can be found in hotels and hospitals in Newfoundland and Labrador and they are also found offshore,” he says. And specialty orders are a specialty. “We can make a mattress to any size or shape you want,” he says. “We can even make one as round as a donut.” Tetford says many people don’t know that a mattress manufacturing company exists on the island. Yet, when they do find out about this
Nicholas Langor/The Independent
Manufactured Right Here product, they are usually pleasantly surprised. “Having that knowledge gives you more choice as a consumer,” he says. To learn more, visit http://www.restwellmattress.ca/ or see one of the many retailers around the province who carry their product. A full listing is available on their website or by calling (709) 596-7088. pamelamichpardy@yahoo.ca
AUGUST 31, 2007
INDEPENDENTSTYLE • 29
boomIT: one-stop shop for your technology needs
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hen you step inside 286 Torbay Rd. and look around, it is easy to see boomIT (that’s IT for Information Technology) is your neighborhood’s one-stop provider for home and business technology sales, service and repair. Start chatting with the staff and you quickly sense why they have become the computer go-to pros for all that ails your computer system or network. They don’t like to think of themselves as geeks but it’s difficult to deny after getting one of them going. Whether it’s new computers, network setup or tuneup, troubleshooting or a new website, the pros provide a wide variety of products and services. For some, boomIT is the IT department; for others, with their own IT staff, they provide a support role, filling in when extra hands are needed. The boomIT team has decades of industry experience. Since September 2006 they have been serving clients from 286 Torbay Rd. Sean Kwekkeboom founded the company when he saw a gap in the local computer services market. “Speed of response is key,” Kwekkeboom says. “You should not have to wait days to have most problems fixed or get a computer up and running.” The team consists of various specialties. “No technician can know everything. Working as a team, we help each other to best serve the client.” There are a few things Kwekkeboom would like consumers to know about boomIT. “We are open seven days a week, generally turn repairs around in 24 hours, price match anybody and our shop is full of the latest products. Just come check us out,” he says. Purchasing computer products and services from boomIT means getting away from what Kwekkeboom calls the “rough service or box store approach.” “We have very personalized service here, know many customers by name
“Working as a team, we help each other to best serve the client.” Sean Kwekkeboom
The boomIT staff at their St. John’s store.
and we try our best to keep you informed as repairs and services are completed. We only sell you what you need at the moment, giving you options for future expansion.” boomIT is “working hard at going above and beyond” because they want customers to make their store an option when it comes to purchasing products for their home or office. The staff want to make your repairs as easy for you as possible by offering a remote service option. “Let’s say it’s a miserable day, or you just don’t have the time to bring your computer into our store. Well then, you don’t need to,” Kwekkeboom says. “Using secured remote communication we can perform repairs virtually at
Nicholas Langor/The Independent
your home via our unique remote help service. We can arrange it for any system. “Computer owners need to avoid the Cousin Timmy approach. Unfortunately, some have learned the hard way, calling on the family expert who takes care of the computer needs. At what price? “Many think the cost of having a professional do things right the first time might be expensive, but after paying the cost of cleaning up the work of an amateur, our services become an obvious choice for the future.” Drop by or visit boomIT online to see a wide variety of available products at www.boomit.ca or meet the team in the store at 286 Torbay Rd.
AUGUST 31, 2007
30 • INDEPENDENTSTYLE
On the streets of Paris NICHOLAS GARDNER Off the Eating Path tions can be closed for almost the whole month. The French know how to relax — they get out of the city and onto the beaches. After three weeks, they return refreshed and ready for another year of work. Paris is the center of haute cuisine and fashion. Everywhere you look, there’s a shop selling clothes and on the other side is a restaurant, brasserie or café. There are nearly 20,000 restaurants in Paris alone. Yet, almost every one we passed in the past week has been full or near bursting to capacity. The city is bustling with life, even as it is supposed to be resting. The
‘I had one boy offer to buy my sunglasses’ From page 27 While Stamp avoids anything she has to iron, she admits to having a penchant for Italian leather footwear. Melanie Stone, a elementary core French teacher, dressed for a photo shoot in a sensible neutral-coloured blazer with upturned pink brocade cuffs, black pants and black peekaboo high heels. She says she likes to dress up when she’s teaching, although she says her school is fairly conservative in light of the young pupils and their active daily schedules. It doesn’t stop her from looking her best, though. “You really do express your personality through your clothes,” she says. “I like clothes and play with that and be different and express who you are. I never noticed clothes when I was in Grade Six, but they really notice now — I had one boy offer to buy my sunglasses.” French teacher Wendy Fisher is eager to participate in the back-to-school
“I wore shorts one day last year. A boy told me I had ugly knees.” Wendy Fisher shopping rush, but says she prefers to dress down when teaching for practical reasons. A lot of classroom activities means sitting on the floor, and outdoor recess and lunch duty is a consideration as well. That doesn’t mean she hasn’t tried to break out of her everyday Vneck and T-shirt routine — but with change comes some unsolicited opinions. “I wore shorts one day last year,” she says. “A boy told me I had ugly knees.” mandy.cook@theindependent.ca
local haunts for the local residents stay open just to keep them all happy. Paris is a city of traditions — strict traditions. During the week the streets are fairly calm, with the majority of the people walking around being tourists or vendors. By the time work is over, about 5 p.m., the pace of the city changes. There is a time at the end of every day for a trip to a local café or bar to have a drink with a friend. It’s not a binge; it’s a way to unwind at the end of the day with friends. The brasseries start getting busy for food service around 9 p.m., when the locals come out to eat. If they haven’t had the chance for the aperitif (predinner drink) they certainly will at this time. Most places are open until fairly late but prices go up after 11 p.m., and this is accepted as part of being out late. The weekend is for relaxing, shop-
ping and spending time with family. Sunday especially is critical — the markets open early and the streets are filled with the murmur of chatter from the cafes and the intoxicating aromas of French perfume and tobacco smoke. With the sun out, our market street, which was one of the reasons for staying in this area in the heart of the second arrondissement, felt alive. There is passion about food as shown by the care in which everyone deals with it. At the butcher, meats are cut by hand, at the cheese shops they tell you the best way to serve them, at the fruit stand everything looks like it came off the trees and into the bins without a hint of damage. Here, even the street food is called monsieur or madame. I leave you with some easy Paris street food: the Croque Monsieur.
CROQUE MONSIEUR • 2 slices bread, try a grainy country loaf • 1 Tbsp butter • 1 slice of country ham • 2-3 Tbsp grated gruyère or emmenthal cheese Preheat broiler. Spread butter thinly on both sides of the bread. Lay the ham on one slice and sprinkle on the cheese. Cover with the second slice of bread and broil until golden, about one to two minutes. Turn sandwich and broil on the other side and serve immediately. For a variation, top with a fried egg for a croque madame, or stuff with slices of avocado for a croque Californian. All are tasty. Nicholas Gardner is a freelance writer and erstwhile chef living in St. John’s. nicholas.gardner@gmail.com
The labour of a kind and thoughtful man From page 27 than I had been given, his were flawed and I felt it was somehow a reflection of how he saw me. I wasn’t worthy of a bucket of cleanly picked berries. I was, I feared, not valued and therefore surely not loved. That I read so much into a bucket of berries might be difficult to fathom. Certainly our marital strain ran much deeper than hastily picked fruit — but that was just one more wound to add to my growing list of perceived injuries. After spending half of our lives together, I asked Blair to leave. We had all endured a very challenging year. While the journey was a complex one, I soon came to realize that a small juice glass filled with perfection doesn’t translate into a wonderful life. I lived through my own version of the grass is not always greener — or in this case, the berries not always perfect. To be truly happy you must
be able to appreciate the good when you happen across it. The majority of what you taste in life or experience in any marriage will simply be more average than spectacular. Much like the more plentiful smaller berries that often fill a large bucket, I came to savour the sweet taste of the little things. I came to understand that the mundane might actually outnumber perfection. As long as there was more good than bad in my bucket, I was fine. The bucket of berries Blair had picked was more than good enough and I asked him to come home. The following August we were spending a quiet night at home when Blair left for what I thought was a smoke walk. He was gone a long time and, just as I was beginning to get contrary, he returned with a soup boiler full of berries he had gathered on the path. I peeked inside. I saw leaves and white berries. I saw groups of berries still on their stems. There were twigs, and yes, I even saw a
few spiders. While this full boiler of berries was less than perfect, I also saw more than enough perfectly plump, ripe berries to make me feel content. More importantly, I saw the labour of a kind and thoughtful man who had taken the time to do something that would make me smile. I was valued and for that I was grateful. As the three of us cuddled on the sofa that night to watch a movie, Brody and I ate berries right out of the boiler, gleefully staining our fingers and tongues with the berry dye. Blair held another bowl for the twigs and leaves we plucked out as we munched our way through the pot. He also thoughtfully squished the occasional spider that darted out. I no longer use the phrase “half empty or half full” when pondering how to look at situations. Instead I ask myself: juice glass or riblet bucket? I always choose the riblet bucket. pamelamichpardy@yahoo.com
Spice kebabs for Labour Day By Susan Sampson Torstar wire service
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educe your labour this Labour Day weekend — serve these kebabs. Popular in tapas bars in Spain, they are fabulously spiced and tender, yet easy to prepare. PINCHITOS MORUNOS (MOORISH KEBABS) Adapted from The World of Kebabs: Over 100 Recipes From Around the World by Anand Prakash. You can double the recipe. If using wooden skewers, pre-soak them for 30 minutes. • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil • 1 tbsp lemon juice • 1 tbsp each: chopped parsley, chopped cilantro • 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced • 1 tsp each: curry powder, mild Spanish smoked paprika • 1/2 tsp each: ground cumin, chili flakes, sea salt, freshly ground pepper • 1/4 tsp each: dried thyme, dried oregano • 1 lb (450 g) pork tenderloin, cut in 1inch cubes • 2 tbsp vegetable oil In medium bowl, stir together oil, lemon juice, parsley, cilantro, garlic, curry powder, paprika, cumin, chili flakes, salt, pepper, thyme and oregano. Stir in pork to coat. Transfer to ziplock bag. Marinate overnight. Preheat barbecue to medium. Thread pork onto four skewers. Grill, covered, turning and brushing frequently with oil, until just cooked, about 10 minutes. Makes four servings.
hope
I
never liked the end of August, it always depressed me. Summer in Newfoundland is hanging its head and admitting defeat and soon, as every year, school would begin. For my sister, school was a great adventure. She was always excited for classes to begin and all they would bring. The adventure of walking into the malls where the chemical smell of plastic binders combined with the pepperiness of wooden pencils signified the end of summer and the beginning of fall. For me, it was the smell of the end of freedom. This year, since I have been on vacation for the last little while, and more specifically in Paris, there has been a lot of reflection on the beauties of the month of August. August is the month when most Parisians take their annual leave. Restaurants, shops and other institu-
For every question there is an answer.
We’re here.
Hope through education, support and solutions. 1.800.321.1433
www.arthritis.ca
AUGUST 31SEPTEMBER 6, 2007
What’s new in the automotive industry
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Advice from a professional shopper MARK WOOD SETS OUT TO HELP A FRIEND, ENDS UP WITH A NEW (USED) FAMILY CAR OF HIS OWN
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ast Thursday I bought a car. Two back into it and make the wheels go days prior it wasn’t even a con- around for another couple of years or sideration. I blame it all on my use that money towards another vehico-worker, Nicholas Langor, cle. I was leaning towards the talented young photograanother vehicle. pher at the top of the page in That evening I narrowed the Shift section. my choice down to two cars Nicholas called me up last and researched them, as I do week looking for advice on every week with my feature the choice of vehicle he was vehicle. It was dry, pertinent, about to purchase and I was statistical stuff, quite unlike curious about how far a dolmy style, but it helped me lar goes these days. During make a decision. MARK WOOD my lunch break on WednesI clicked back to the local day I searched online through used car website, and hit WOODY’S “further details.” An “apply every local new and used inventory for comparison and WHEELS online” form appeared. Why was quite surprised. There not? As I filled it out I ran were a couple of really attracinto an opportunity to embeltive deals on wheels to suit my high lish. Under the “income from other standards and low budget. sources and occupation” line I printed My family car was at the stage of its for the first time in my life “writer,” an life where a certain amount of mainte- insinuation that I was somehow loosenance was in order and it could have ly associated with the profession. gone either way. I could put some cash By Thursday morning the attractive-
ly financed, pre-approved chariot awaited my perusal and I became a growing statistic of the local online vehicle purchasing community. I had no idea it was so easy and made further inquiries at Kenmount Auto and Finance Centre who happened to win my business. Sixty per cent of their sales are online and they deliver vehicles provincewide. There were six cars waiting to go to Labrador when the ferry started running again this spring, with further deliveries to the Big Land each month. I was also quite impressed with their marketing strategy of advertising in Northern Alberta to the many skilled tradesmen there who quote directly from the Dictionary of Newfoundland English. The b’ys up there shop online for their families back home and have vehicles delivered directly to their hometowns. Who knew? This week, as a columnist, I used the
experience for my own benefit. The irony of the situation wasn’t lost on me — here’s the only guy in town paid to buy a car. I feel another embellishment coming on and can’t wait to include “professional shopper” at the next opportunity. My feature vehicle this week wasn’t a roadster but the moral equivalent of a familial Air Force One with room for the president, vice-president, two juvenile chiefs of staff and a load of groceries. That’s a pretty accurate description of a 2003 Toyota Corolla and I drove it directly to Toyota Plaza from whence it came. With the vehicle identification number, the service department was able to provide the complete details of an unblemished service record. A tame account of regular oil changes, a pair of brake jobs and a new battery. Apparently 2003 was the first year of the newly designed, ninth-generation Corolla and coincided with its
35th anniversary. It debuted in 1966 and was introduced to the North American market in 1968. By 1997 it was the best-selling car in the world and according to Toyota’s corporate website there were 30 million sold by 2005. No big surprise there — it’s an excellent choice as an affordable, economical family vehicle or a welcome addition as a second car. It sips fuel as a perfunctory gesture and makes the average lawnmower’s consumption appear positively excessive by comparison. With regular maintenance a Corolla should have a lifespan equal to, or greater than, a large mixedbreed dog. My friend Nicholas, who sparked the recent chain of events, is still in the process of looking for a vehicle. Mark Wood of Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s is more of a professional embellisher who buys and sells words.
32 • INDEPENDENTFUN
AUGUST 31, 2007
WEEKLY DIVERSIONS ACROSS 1 Bled colour 4 Old sailors 9 Start of a day? 12 Slip 14 Tiresome 16 Sonata’s final movement 19 Bereaved wife 20 Send back to the House 21 Song of cowboys and Swiss mountaineers 22 Roman greeting 23 Marshy 25 Provoke 27 It’s next to nothing 28 Handsome (Fr.) 30 Mine entrance 31 By oneself 32 Manager 33 He built an oceangoing ship on his Sask. homestead 35 Not here 37 Appropriate 38 Canadian film award 40 Bill 41 Most uptight 45 Pose 46 She wrote Unless 50 Malarial fever 51 Prove human 53 Tourist slogan: ___, Natural British Columbia
55 Period 56 Seasickness: mal de ___ 57 An Esposito 59 Change 60 Male turkey 61 Double curve 62 Noisy 64 PC cousin 65 Code name for Normandy beach where Canadians landed on D-Day 66 Author of Wolf Willow 68 Exclamation of triumph 70 Breakouts 73 Poultry product 74 Levels 76 Sandwich filler 77 Ancient Persian prophet 80 University community 84 Elbow ___ 85 Labrador town 86 Gloom 87 January event 89 Besides 90 Venetian ruler, once 91 Feather 93 Furrow 94 Swedish port 96 Moderately slow (mus.) 98 Better 100 Entreaties
CHUCKLE BROS
101 Snide, partly stifled laugh 102 Primp 103 Pronoun for a ship 104 Cross the threshold 105 Building extension DOWN 1 Ottawa skating rink: ___ Canal 2 Ruckus 3 CBC forte 4 Apparent 5 Proficient 6 Tiger ___ 7 Sock end 8 Sugar 9 Renowned Canadian scholar Northrop ___ 10 Pooh’s friend 11 Like many winter activities 12 Large mop 13 ___ of the Saints (Nino Ricci) 14 Activity between countries 15 Steps over a fence 17 Dunder-headed 18 Cheers for a matador 24 Desires 26 B.C. poet murdered in 1975 29 Arbitrary command 31 Narrow openings 32 French infant 34 Gibbon
35 Business letter abbr. 36 Hirsute 39 Fruiting spike of a cereal plant 41 Brings under control 42 Discharge 43 Suckle 44 Choir voice 46 Parking spot 47 Cessation 48 Apian stud 49 Greek island 52 Handwoven rug 54 Ultraviolet rad. of a kind 57 Latin-American dance 58 Italian herb 63 Yukon’s official bird 64 Isle off Britain 65 Inventor of basketball: ___ Naismith 67 Microbe 69 “... sat down beside ___” 71 Military parade hat 72 Dishonourable chap 74 First person to win Olympic gold for Canada: ___ Desmarteau 75 Stroll 77 Like some geraniums 78 Large quantity 79 Long stories 81 Newsman of yore 82 Life of Pi author
83 Escape from 84 Sloping passage 86 Smallest baleen
whale 88 UK “public school” 90 Prescribed amount
91 Treaty 92 Slangy negative 95 ___-jong
97 Loud noise 99 Web site address Solutions page 34
Brian and Ron Boychuk
WEEKLY STARS ARIES (MAR. 21 TO APR. 19) A little “wool-gathering” for the usually productive Lamb is all right, but only if it helps you unwind. But be sure to be careful: Too much of that daydreaming can put you behind schedule in your work.
CANCER (JUNE 21 TO JULY 22) Dealing with a pesky job problem might be time-consuming but it is necessary. The sooner you get this entire situation settled, the sooner you can move on to the other matters.
TAURUS (APR. 20 TO MAY 20) A work problem is close to being resolved. Now you can go ahead and celebrate the week, accepting invitations from friends who enjoy your company.
LEO (JULY 23 TO AUG. 22) Career advancement is favoured thanks to your impressive work record. On the personal side, you should soon hear some good news about an ailing family member.
GEMINI (MAY 21 TO JUNE 20) Getting your new plan accepted won’t be a major hassle if you have the facts to back it up. Your supporters are also prepared to help you make your case. Good luck.
VIRGO (AUG. 23 TO SEPT. 22) There might be mixed signals from a certain someone who doesn’t seem all that certain about his or her intentions. Best to sort it all out before it becomes more confusing.
LIBRA (SEPT. 23 TO OCT. 22) Get all the facts about that investment “opportunity” before you put as little as one dollar into it. There could be hidden problems that could prove costly. SCORPIO (OCT. 23 TO NOV.21) Compromising on a matter you feel strongly about not only ends the impasse but can be a win-win deal for all. Remember: Scorpios do well with change. SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 TO DEC. 21) With all the demands you have to deal with, accepting the help of family and friends could be the wisest course to take at this time. CAPRICORN (DEC. 22 TO JAN. 19) Recent upsetting incidents might have left you with a big gap
in your self-assurance. Refill it by spending time with those who know how worthy you really are. AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 TO FEB.18) A dispute about money needs to be resolved quickly, before it festers into something more serious. Consider asking an impartial colleague to mediate the matter. PISCES (FEB. 19 TO MAR. 20) A soft approach could be more effective than making a loud demand for information you need. You might even find yourself with more data than you expected. YOU BORN THIS WEEK: You’re sought out for the wonderful advice you’re able to offer to others. And sometimes you even take it yourself. (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 34
INDEPENDENTSPORTS
FRIDAY THROUGH THURSDAY, AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 6, 2007 — PAGE 33
Holy Cross sweeper Andre Le prepares for the Challenge Cup playoffs at Brother Egan Field in St. John’s.
Paul Daly/The Independent
Laurentian pride St. Lawrence enters the Challenge Cup playoffs undefeated, on home turf By John Rieti The Independent
T
wenty years ago Clem “Junior” Edwards stood in the rain on a soaking St. Lawrence field, heartbroken after losing the national Challenge Cup final to B.C. “We played it before 5,000 or 6,000 fans … there were people out bailing the field with buckets and sponges and stuff like that … that was the one we let get away,” Edwards tells The Independent. “The fans were still there hugging you, saying ‘next year.’” St. Lawrence fans will have another chance to cheer on their team as the Laurentians host the Challenge Cup playoffs Sept. 1 and 2, and hope this will be
their year. During the regular season St. Lawrence is undefeated with a record of 20 wins and four draws. “The pride, dedication and determination comes out when these guys are asked to play,” says Edwards. He remembers the first time he represented the town as a boy, playing against Lawn, the neighbouring town, in the east versus west game. “Growing up it was a lot of pride to be a Laurentian.” There’s also a lot of pressure on the team. Some people are already buzzing about the team’s potential to compete for a national title. “There’s a lot at stake,” says Edwards. Will it get to them? “I don’t think so b’y, they’ve got a good team, they’re a veteran
team. I don’t think pressure bothers them.” St. Lawrence Mayor Wade Rowsell expects over 1,000 people to pack the grandstand at Centennial Field — designated a municipal heritage site for its rich soccer history — to cheer on their team in blue, almost acting as another player on the pitch. “It’s part of our town’s identity, we work together as a team,” says Rowsell, who is looking forward to watching matches between St. Lawrence and city rivals Holy Cross and Mount Pearl. “For me, the fact that the final weekend is in St. Lawrence isn’t intimidating, it’s more of a motivational factor. The fans heckling throughout the entire game get me going rather than throw me off,” says André Le, Holy Cross’s rookie sweeper. Le has been playing in the Challenge Cup
for four years with all-star and Canada Games teams, but this will be the first season he’s part of a team that competes in the playoffs. The rookie-of-the-year frontrunner is eager to lead his third ranked team to an upset. “Our team has shown glimpses of brilliance throughout the entire season … if we gel as a team and play to our potential I believe our team will come home with the cup,” says Le. Holy Cross also enters the playoffs with the biggest offensive threat in striker Jon Hawco who leads the league with 18 goals. Mount Pearl enters the tournament in second place, and has a proven scorer of their own in Justin Pickford who has netted 16 See “Any of the four,” page 34
Softball success
Newfoundland producing top Canadian talent with limited pool of players
W
ednesday morning at 11 a.m., Newfoundland was well represented at the Canadian men’s fastpitch championship at Caribou Complex. The host team, Roebothan McKay and Marshall, played against Newfoundland 1, Impact Signs, on Pepperell Field. Adjacent to that on Legion Field was Grumpy Stump, Newfoundland 2, playing the Stony Plain Twilighters from Alberta. This team is affectionately known around Caribou as Newfoundland 3, because of the number of locals on the squad
(eight at my last count, but I may have missed someone). That means more than 50 senior softball players from this province were competing at a Canadian championship. The two games represent a highlight for Newfoundland softball. The games themselves weren’t exactly highlights in a week of fastpitch. Roebothan McKay and Marshall shut down Impact Signs 8-0 as Robbie O’Brien pitched a no-hitter. Meanwhile, Alberta downed Grumpy Stump 8-2. But, of the 12 teams com-
peting at this prestigious event, five of them have a Newfoundland flavour. That includes shortstop Darrell Joy and rightfielder Ryan O’Neill, who are starters for Aspen Interiors of Saskatchewan. That is a highlight. Despite its popularity, softball can still be considered a fringe sport in this country. It’s not played in the major centres, and doesn’t receive huge media coverage. (The fact men’s fastpitch was removed from the Canada Games is still a sore point in these parts, and fodder for another
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column altogether.) But Canada is one of the top softball nations in the world, and our players are sprinkled throughout rosters in leagues and tournaments all summer. And Newfoundland players are among some of the best in the country. Colin Abbott’s name is always mentioned whenever top softball players are talked about. Jason Hill, Stephen Mullaley and Blair Ezekiel are among the top young players who are only beginning their senior careers. Returning players like Rob
and Sean O’Brien, Matt Bramwell and Sean Whitten have all made their names in the International Softball Congress (ISC) club circuit around North America — just like the aforementioned group. Ward Gosse and Darrell Walsh have proven their mettle on the national scene and have done so almost exclusively in St. John’s, provincial and national competition. (I haven’t even scraped the surface yet, with Harold Kelly, Chris Maher, Jon Kelly, John See “Beyond,” page 34
34 • INDEPENDENTSPORTS
‘Any of the four teams can beat each other’ From page 33 goals this season. Even the fourth place Feildians have a chance to take down St. Lawrence. On Aug. 12 the Feildians, the only team to enter the playoffs with a losing record, drew the Laurentians. “Any of the four teams can beat each other,” says Edwards. “Any given day really.” He says his first Burin Peninsula showdowns with Lawn were intense, but this weekend’s games are of a whole different magnitude. He knows St. Lawrence fans living abroad that have taken holidays to come back from Toronto to watch the games. Also in the stands are the next generation of Laurentians, kids like the provincial champion Under-16 team. Much as the current team idolized Edwards — who was invited to try out for the national team — the current Laurentians like Clinton Edwards, Marc Pittman and Joe Cecchini are heroes to the upcoming generation. Edwards says the St. Lawrence approach is simple. “We ask for nothing, just respect for the game.” Whether or not St. Lawrence, dubbed the soccer capital of Canada, celebrates another Challenge Cup trophy remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: they will be a good team for years to come. john.rieti@theindependent.ca Solutions for crossword from page 32
AUGUST 31, 2007
Canada would do well to follow Aussie example By Cathal Kelly Torstar wire service
I
t’s easy to complain. Better yet, it’s fun. Moaning about the state of Canadian soccer is the main consolation in following it. But it does grow tiresome to others. Talking loudly and at great length about the many shortcomings of the Canadian Soccer Association will tend to get you invited to fewer poker nights with the guys. Eventually, only the dog will humour you. We complainers could do something, I suppose. That doesn’t sound easy or like much fun, but hey, Australia did it. And now they spend their summers winning instead of whining. Several years ago, the Aussies found themselves where Canada is now. Soccer was moribund, an orphan in a sporting landscape dominated by rugby and Aussie rules football. The country’s governing body, Soccer Australia, was incompetent and riven by factionalism, much like the CSA. The senior men’s team hadn’t qualified for a World Cup since 1974, 12 years worse than Canada’s record. All this despite 350,000 national partici-
pants and fine homegrown professionals. Then a series of cumulative disasters were capped by the 2002 World Cup. It was just too much for most Australians to watch the world’s greatest sporting event hosted in nearby Asia and not be part of it. Out of this disappointment, the Crawford Report was born. The Crawford Report was a wideranging, government-sponsored inquiry into the state of the national game. Released in April, 2003, the damning document called for renewal through a scorched-earth policy. Money was the stick and the carrot used by the government to ensure compliance. As in, ignore us and we stop all funding. Frank Lowy, a billionaire shipping magnate and passionate fan, was asked to oversee soccer’s renewal. His first move was to blow up Soccer Australia. Then he hired John O’Neill, the architect of the 2003 rugby World Cup, to run the newly created Australian Soccer Association. O’Neill countered factionalism and amateurism by hiring proven executives with no ties to the old regime. Rather than fighting for their regional patches, Australian soccer’s overseers
Australia is living our dream while we continue to muddle through their nightmare.
were suddenly pulling together. Buoyed by fresh optimism and new money, Australia attracted manager Guus Hiddink. Coming off his success with South Korea in the 2002 World Cup, the Dutch gun-for-hire agreed to push Australia back on to the international stage. Hiddink first drove his charges over Uruguay to qualify for the World Cup. Interest in the sport spiked. Then the team was a shock qualifier for the playoff rounds in Germany. Only a dodgy penalty call against eventual champions Italy kept them out of the quarter-finals.
The national team’s success anchored the new domestic series — the A-League — only a year after its creation. O’Neill’s ability to draw sponsors and TV revenues means the thriving national squads are financially self-sustaining. Australia is living our dream while we continue to muddle through their nightmare. Good enough reason to begin pressing for a Canadian Crawford Report. The resignation of CSA president Colin Linford this week should be the last of many back-breaking straws. But don’t count on it. The most likely future tipping point is another implosion by the men’s team in attempting to qualify for South Africa 2010. It is time to start seeding the ground. There are Lowys in Canada (billionaire soccer fanatic Frank Stronach leaps to mind), as well as O’Neills (how about Calgary Olympic boss Frank King or ex-Blue Jays president Paul Beeston or Canadian skiing honcho Ken Read?). What’s needed now is a powerful someone in Ottawa to start rocking the boat. The dog would do it, but she’s more of a policy wonk than a crusader.
Solutions for sudoku from page 32
Beyond belief From page 33 Farrell and Brian Clarke still to be mentioned.) That, quite frankly, is amazing. It’s especially astounding when you consider Softball Newfoundland and Labrador has practically ignored minor fastpitch over the past decade or so. (I’ve got to give them some credit, since the tournament seems to be running smoothly, thanks to Gary Corbett’s leadership.)
For a small province like Newfoundland and Labrador to produce top-quality players is beyond belief. Truth be known, it’s not the entire province producing these players, either; it’s just pockets of the province around the Avalon Peninsula doing it. The St. John’s Senior Men’s Softball League, which last year celebrated its 50th anniversary, is among the best leagues in Canada. It has to be, to continually produce the quality of ball player it does. It’s where all these guys got their start. (Watching Wednesday’s game from the bleachers directly behind home plate, by the way, were many of the top players from recent years, now retired from the game. Bill Windsor, Ron Boland, Jeff Kirk, Ross Crocker, Joe Boland, Don Roche, Wish Pittman, Jerome Brocklehurst, Bill Davis and Mike Davis all watched the two Newfoundland teams with interest. Those guys all competed at national championships, with Crocker and Windsor inducted into the Canadian Softball Hall of Fame.) As is often the case in Newfoundland, unfortunately, many of these guys have to leave home to ply their trade. The local league only offers 20 games a season, so the top players fly away each weekend to participate in these traveling ISC tournaments. Now that they’re home and playing in front of local fans, it’s nice to see them display their talents. Here’s hoping the weekend is full of Newfoundlanders playing softball at Caribou. ••• Speaking of the weekend, how does Labour Day suit your sporting fancy? If softball’s not your game, you can take in the Molson Challenge Cup final tournament in St. Lawrence, where the hometown Laurentians are looking to defend their title. (St. Lawrence hasn’t lost a Challenge Cup game since July of 2006.) Friday afternoon, Feildians play Holy Cross before St. Lawrence and Mount Pearl face off. Meanwhile, Aug. 30 in St. John’s saw the start of the Breen’s Jubilee Trophy tournament. Action in that event switches to St. Lawrence for Saturday’s semifinal and Sunday’s final. Don’t like either of those options? Drop by a cabin in the woods somewhere, and you’re sure to find a game of horseshoes. Either way, Labour Day should be an entertaining weekend. donniep@nl.rogers.com
AUGUST 31, 2007
INDEPENDENTCLASSIFIEDS • 35
friday through thursday, august 31 TO SEPTEMBER 6, 2007 — PAGE 36
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