Sunday 30 December 2012
Saturday 29 December 2012
Military Part #2
Without looking it up I suspect the purpose of the US military is primarily twofold. One is protection of the US from foreign attack. It is pretty much a given that no country at least, would dare attack America. If they did it would be a pretty clear and decisive smack-down at the hands of the US military.
The second purpose appears to be the promotion of good governance and democracy in foreign countries. One would assume that the foreign land would have to have some US strategic interests, or there would be too many interventions. This may explain why the US is involved in Iraq and not Syria.
To the credit of the USA, America does not appear to have any expansionist plans. Unlike the Roman & British Empires, America is content with the land they currently occupy.
Even a military as strong and powerful as America's can run into difficulty in foreign interventions. The prime example would be Vietnam. That war was lost. In the end the Communists from the North took over the South, which they occupy to this day. One could imagine if the USA had decided to put forth enough resources they could have won that war. Americans made a decision that it was not worth the lives of more American soldiers, or the financial cost.
The Iraq War was a winner. The reason for going to war in Iraq is still suspect. If regime change is the goal, then Syria would be an obvious choice, but the US military is spread too thin in two wars already. There is no desire from a blood and treasure standpoint to enter another war. You have to believe that when the US pulls out of Afghanistan, that the country will revert back to the Taliban. Yet it was the more justifiable war of the two. Saudi Arabia, where the 9-11 terrorists originated and were financed, apparently was given a pass for strategic (oil) reasons.
Canada sat out the second Iraq War, which appears to have been a good call. We did send troops to Afghanistan. While genuine efforts were made to improve the lot of the people, in particular girls, we all know that the country will not remain a democracy after the last of US troops depart.
A third goal of the US military appears to be to act as a deterrent to Arab countries hostility toward Israel.
If I were looking for ways to save money on the US military, I would recommend closing bases in Europe, South Korea and Japan. At least cutting back resources dramatically. China and Russia are weak militarily. Russia appears to be a spent force. I would cut back on Naval spending. This recommendation from an ex-Navy man. I would cut back on submarines (cold war), save the aircraft carriers, if used in lieu of overseas bases as a quick strike capability for aircraft.
I would suggest that a less interventionist strategy would save lives and treasure, as well as likely stir up less hatred among foreign radicals.
If you are going to send young people to war, you have to spend on their reintegration back into civilian life, as well as full funding for war related medical treatment once they return home disabled. To make cuts for those treatments in Canada and the US cannot be justified.
The second purpose appears to be the promotion of good governance and democracy in foreign countries. One would assume that the foreign land would have to have some US strategic interests, or there would be too many interventions. This may explain why the US is involved in Iraq and not Syria.
To the credit of the USA, America does not appear to have any expansionist plans. Unlike the Roman & British Empires, America is content with the land they currently occupy.
Even a military as strong and powerful as America's can run into difficulty in foreign interventions. The prime example would be Vietnam. That war was lost. In the end the Communists from the North took over the South, which they occupy to this day. One could imagine if the USA had decided to put forth enough resources they could have won that war. Americans made a decision that it was not worth the lives of more American soldiers, or the financial cost.
The Iraq War was a winner. The reason for going to war in Iraq is still suspect. If regime change is the goal, then Syria would be an obvious choice, but the US military is spread too thin in two wars already. There is no desire from a blood and treasure standpoint to enter another war. You have to believe that when the US pulls out of Afghanistan, that the country will revert back to the Taliban. Yet it was the more justifiable war of the two. Saudi Arabia, where the 9-11 terrorists originated and were financed, apparently was given a pass for strategic (oil) reasons.
Canada sat out the second Iraq War, which appears to have been a good call. We did send troops to Afghanistan. While genuine efforts were made to improve the lot of the people, in particular girls, we all know that the country will not remain a democracy after the last of US troops depart.
A third goal of the US military appears to be to act as a deterrent to Arab countries hostility toward Israel.
If I were looking for ways to save money on the US military, I would recommend closing bases in Europe, South Korea and Japan. At least cutting back resources dramatically. China and Russia are weak militarily. Russia appears to be a spent force. I would cut back on Naval spending. This recommendation from an ex-Navy man. I would cut back on submarines (cold war), save the aircraft carriers, if used in lieu of overseas bases as a quick strike capability for aircraft.
I would suggest that a less interventionist strategy would save lives and treasure, as well as likely stir up less hatred among foreign radicals.
If you are going to send young people to war, you have to spend on their reintegration back into civilian life, as well as full funding for war related medical treatment once they return home disabled. To make cuts for those treatments in Canada and the US cannot be justified.
Military Spending Part #1
Conservatives in general do not like government spending, with the great exception being Law & Order items like Defence and the Police. In Canada, Harper went to great pains to point out that he increased Defence spending, as well as building more prisons despite a decreasing crime rate.
The USA is approaching what they call the Fiscal Cliff, whereby automatic spending cuts and tax increases will take effect on Jan. 1, 2013 if Congress fails to reach a deal with the White House on agreed spending & tax measures. Included in the cuts will be massive military spending decreases.
Let's look at the US military spending. They spend nearly $700 Billion on defence annually. Nearly 6 times more than number #2 China and 10 times that of former adversary Russia. About 30 times that of Canada. More than the next 10 countries combined and 40% of the world's total military spending. The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have cost over $3 trillion to date.
I hear from Conservatives that Canada relies on the USA to defend our borders. They spend 3 times per capita ,their share of defence costs and we are a freeloader hiding behind US military might. Well exactly who is threatening Canada's borders? What nations are planning to attack? Islamic terrorists? Are nuclear submarines a deterrent to terrorists? Ballistic missiles? By all means increase spending on spy agencies and tactical special ops forces, but do we need to feed the military industrial complex that consumes so much of US resources?
The Cold War is over, Russia is spending 1/10 of US budget on the military. China 1/6th. The terrorists? Not likely 1/1000th.
Targeted military expenditures based on the current and expected near future threats, is the way to go. In the USA it wont happen as the military industrial complex feeds off itself. They feed off of fear and tap into fanatical patriotism and ironically so called Freedom. Freedom won and kept at the end of an ICBM.
In America the conservatives want a powerful war machine, but do not want to raise taxes to pay for it. The Right are happy to cut into social services to pay for the military. Despite the end of the Cold War they wont cotton to cut military spending to fight terrorists, with homemade bombs and IED's. By all means purchase personnel carriers that can withstand IED's, but cut back on the subs and foreign bases.
Got to laugh at the Right who believe that they alone are patriotic to the nation. The rest of us are terrorist hugging, immigrant loving pacifists that refuse to defend freedom. That is why the US military is filled with Hispanic and Black soldiers, while Romney's 6 military aged boys took a pass on serving their country in a time of war. As per usual the underclass fight the rich man's wars. The Republicans voted several times to cut VA spending on disabled war vets. It happened in Canada as well until the Cons were called out on it.
When I have the time I'm going to set out again, a budget to balance Canada's finances. It will be a document that makes sense and is fair, balanced and would save taxpayers $Billions, while building subways and transportation corridors. No politician has the mettle, or stones to implement my plan.
I have more to say on foreign wars, protecting our borders and military expenditures. Part #2 to come. Think I'm US bashing? BS! I work for a US company, note my BBQ below, my boat and even my brand new winter coat, were all made in the USA. I buy North American when I can.
The USA is approaching what they call the Fiscal Cliff, whereby automatic spending cuts and tax increases will take effect on Jan. 1, 2013 if Congress fails to reach a deal with the White House on agreed spending & tax measures. Included in the cuts will be massive military spending decreases.
Let's look at the US military spending. They spend nearly $700 Billion on defence annually. Nearly 6 times more than number #2 China and 10 times that of former adversary Russia. About 30 times that of Canada. More than the next 10 countries combined and 40% of the world's total military spending. The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have cost over $3 trillion to date.
I hear from Conservatives that Canada relies on the USA to defend our borders. They spend 3 times per capita ,their share of defence costs and we are a freeloader hiding behind US military might. Well exactly who is threatening Canada's borders? What nations are planning to attack? Islamic terrorists? Are nuclear submarines a deterrent to terrorists? Ballistic missiles? By all means increase spending on spy agencies and tactical special ops forces, but do we need to feed the military industrial complex that consumes so much of US resources?
The Cold War is over, Russia is spending 1/10 of US budget on the military. China 1/6th. The terrorists? Not likely 1/1000th.
Targeted military expenditures based on the current and expected near future threats, is the way to go. In the USA it wont happen as the military industrial complex feeds off itself. They feed off of fear and tap into fanatical patriotism and ironically so called Freedom. Freedom won and kept at the end of an ICBM.
In America the conservatives want a powerful war machine, but do not want to raise taxes to pay for it. The Right are happy to cut into social services to pay for the military. Despite the end of the Cold War they wont cotton to cut military spending to fight terrorists, with homemade bombs and IED's. By all means purchase personnel carriers that can withstand IED's, but cut back on the subs and foreign bases.
Got to laugh at the Right who believe that they alone are patriotic to the nation. The rest of us are terrorist hugging, immigrant loving pacifists that refuse to defend freedom. That is why the US military is filled with Hispanic and Black soldiers, while Romney's 6 military aged boys took a pass on serving their country in a time of war. As per usual the underclass fight the rich man's wars. The Republicans voted several times to cut VA spending on disabled war vets. It happened in Canada as well until the Cons were called out on it.
When I have the time I'm going to set out again, a budget to balance Canada's finances. It will be a document that makes sense and is fair, balanced and would save taxpayers $Billions, while building subways and transportation corridors. No politician has the mettle, or stones to implement my plan.
I have more to say on foreign wars, protecting our borders and military expenditures. Part #2 to come. Think I'm US bashing? BS! I work for a US company, note my BBQ below, my boat and even my brand new winter coat, were all made in the USA. I buy North American when I can.
Wednesday 26 December 2012
Sunday 23 December 2012
Monday 17 December 2012
Sunday 16 December 2012
TFC
I spoke with a guy in my company who is a senior member of the Red Patch Boys, a hardcore supporters group with Toronto FC, of the MLS. He told me that TFC's desperate action of rolling back ticket prices, resulted in a 71% renewal rate. lower than I thought it would be. They discounted prices by nearly 40%.
I give the team one more year before they lose the fans on a permanent basis. I would suggest that the survival of the franchise is in play. They already blew a chance to establish the soccer team as a major force in the city. I would lower the team ranking below that of the Argos, barely ahead of the Rock indoor lacrosse team in the sports hierarchy in Toronto.
Their pathetic president, Tom Anselmi, was promoted for his gross incompetence in typical MLSE fashion. I guess he is an expert at running poorly performing franchises.
TFC had the 3rd worst record of any MLS franchise in the history of the league, including expansion teams. I have lost interest and the 6 friends that I knew, that had seasons tickets, have all dropped their seats. All were enthusiastic fans.
The in game experience at TFC games was watered down by a franchise that seemed to want to alienate fans deliberately It would be impossible to run a team as poorly as TFC has been operated. The chief architect of this dismal franchise is now running all of the MLSE teams. A slap in the face of Toronto sports fans.
I give the team one more year before they lose the fans on a permanent basis. I would suggest that the survival of the franchise is in play. They already blew a chance to establish the soccer team as a major force in the city. I would lower the team ranking below that of the Argos, barely ahead of the Rock indoor lacrosse team in the sports hierarchy in Toronto.
Their pathetic president, Tom Anselmi, was promoted for his gross incompetence in typical MLSE fashion. I guess he is an expert at running poorly performing franchises.
TFC had the 3rd worst record of any MLS franchise in the history of the league, including expansion teams. I have lost interest and the 6 friends that I knew, that had seasons tickets, have all dropped their seats. All were enthusiastic fans.
The in game experience at TFC games was watered down by a franchise that seemed to want to alienate fans deliberately It would be impossible to run a team as poorly as TFC has been operated. The chief architect of this dismal franchise is now running all of the MLSE teams. A slap in the face of Toronto sports fans.
Saturday 15 December 2012
Tiny Jimmy, IKEA monkey
Regular readers of this and my previous Blog, will recall my fondness for monkeys. When Darwin the pet monkey was found outside IKEA this week, in a faux shearling coat, I was mesmerised. M nicknamed Darwin, Tiny Jimmy, due to his remote resemblance to our friend Jimmy F. Not in looks but mannerisms. OK looks too.
There has been a push to rent a Tiny Jimmy for our next Poker Event. That seems far fetched. I would like to hire a Tiny Jimmy as crew for my boat. A monkey is the stand-up comic of the animal kingdom. They also appear to be good judges of human character. It is my belief that Tiny Jimmy would dislike the same people I dislike.
DZ who we like, but lacks a sense of humour, would likely not be a favourite of Tiny Jimmy. Really if it came down to inviting a guest that Tiny Jimmy disapproved of, or inviting Tiny Jimmy back, it would be no contest.
Years ago Charlie Brown and I came up with a business case to hire a Claims Monkey for our insurance company. When you were settling a claim for a minor injury you could take, let's say $5,000, or have Claims Monkey spin a prize wheel. You could be shut out, or win as much as $20,000. Regardless of the outcome Claims Monkey would jump up and down with joy. Really everyone was a winner. DZ disapproved, which made it seem like an even better idea. As you could imagine the beer fuelled idea went nowhere.
I would never have a monkey as a pet, as they require 24-hour attention. They never sit still. If you were rich enough you could have a monkey nanny. I want a monkey around for about an hour a day. Just to brighten your day before having monkey nanny look after him for the rest of the time.
There has been a push to rent a Tiny Jimmy for our next Poker Event. That seems far fetched. I would like to hire a Tiny Jimmy as crew for my boat. A monkey is the stand-up comic of the animal kingdom. They also appear to be good judges of human character. It is my belief that Tiny Jimmy would dislike the same people I dislike.
DZ who we like, but lacks a sense of humour, would likely not be a favourite of Tiny Jimmy. Really if it came down to inviting a guest that Tiny Jimmy disapproved of, or inviting Tiny Jimmy back, it would be no contest.
Years ago Charlie Brown and I came up with a business case to hire a Claims Monkey for our insurance company. When you were settling a claim for a minor injury you could take, let's say $5,000, or have Claims Monkey spin a prize wheel. You could be shut out, or win as much as $20,000. Regardless of the outcome Claims Monkey would jump up and down with joy. Really everyone was a winner. DZ disapproved, which made it seem like an even better idea. As you could imagine the beer fuelled idea went nowhere.
I would never have a monkey as a pet, as they require 24-hour attention. They never sit still. If you were rich enough you could have a monkey nanny. I want a monkey around for about an hour a day. Just to brighten your day before having monkey nanny look after him for the rest of the time.
Peter Mackay Boy Prince F-35 Fiasco
Even by the pathetic low standards of the Harper Cabinet, Peter "Little Boy" MacKay, stands out as utterly incompetent to the core.
The F-35 fighter jet fiasco has set military procurement back by a decade or more. Critics, including the country's Auditor General have been warning the government that their purchase price numbers were off by the 10's of $billions. MacKay questioned the patriotism of critics, while denying the numbers were off.
This gutless, pathetic man-child hid behind Rona Ambrose's skirt when the government finally scrapped the whole program. His deputy Minister and other front benchers shielding the little boy from answering for his endless errors in judgement.
We know Harper is not a fan of the Boy Prince, but as he has shown time and again, he will not fire his Ministers. The tiny, childlike MacKay will continue to act as Minister Without Accountability as long as King Harper reigns.
The latest news is that the Auditor General has turned his attention to the government's $35B Navy shipbuilding program, overseen by the Man-Boy MacKay. Any guesses as to the likely findings?
The F-35 fighter jet fiasco has set military procurement back by a decade or more. Critics, including the country's Auditor General have been warning the government that their purchase price numbers were off by the 10's of $billions. MacKay questioned the patriotism of critics, while denying the numbers were off.
This gutless, pathetic man-child hid behind Rona Ambrose's skirt when the government finally scrapped the whole program. His deputy Minister and other front benchers shielding the little boy from answering for his endless errors in judgement.
We know Harper is not a fan of the Boy Prince, but as he has shown time and again, he will not fire his Ministers. The tiny, childlike MacKay will continue to act as Minister Without Accountability as long as King Harper reigns.
The latest news is that the Auditor General has turned his attention to the government's $35B Navy shipbuilding program, overseen by the Man-Boy MacKay. Any guesses as to the likely findings?
Friday 14 December 2012
Sunday 2 December 2012
Banned From the Boat
While the vessel, The Queen's Beaver, is 5-months from launch date, I have no clue how to operate let alone park the boat, I am already wielding my power as ship's Captain. I have compiled a Banned from the Boat list. It is not written down anywhere, but an unofficial accounting in my head. Some people like Charlie Brown have been banned, reinstated, banned and reinstated again. I'm not even sure of his current status. It doesn't matter as it will likely change several times before May. Let's face it in the end he will likely be a regular on the boat.
I have to make sure not to ban too many people, as I need crew to let go of the lines. As Captain Ricky told me, you need them as much as they need you. You don't want to be Then Old Man of the Sea, all alone on your boat.
At poker on Friday night, I was handing out Boat Bans at the slightest perceived offence. Or more accurately threats to issue a boat ban. As the gatekeeper of the boat I will most probably ban no one in the end. Just generic groups like Male friends of KJ that he met in the bar the night before and invited to his buddy's boat.
Now let's move on to the supposed controversial boat name, The Queen's Beaver. This name is not official and just a proposal put forward by Bereza. I like the name as it is a tribute to our Head of State and iconic symbol of Canada, the beaver. Only people of active imaginations perceive an offencive interpretation of the name. Maybe you are the problem and not the name?
It is narrow thinking PC folk that will likely prevent me from paying tribute to two great symbols of Canada, an industrious rodent and a foreign, teas sipping, crumpet eating Overlord from Olde Blighty.
I have to make sure not to ban too many people, as I need crew to let go of the lines. As Captain Ricky told me, you need them as much as they need you. You don't want to be Then Old Man of the Sea, all alone on your boat.
At poker on Friday night, I was handing out Boat Bans at the slightest perceived offence. Or more accurately threats to issue a boat ban. As the gatekeeper of the boat I will most probably ban no one in the end. Just generic groups like Male friends of KJ that he met in the bar the night before and invited to his buddy's boat.
Now let's move on to the supposed controversial boat name, The Queen's Beaver. This name is not official and just a proposal put forward by Bereza. I like the name as it is a tribute to our Head of State and iconic symbol of Canada, the beaver. Only people of active imaginations perceive an offencive interpretation of the name. Maybe you are the problem and not the name?
It is narrow thinking PC folk that will likely prevent me from paying tribute to two great symbols of Canada, an industrious rodent and a foreign, teas sipping, crumpet eating Overlord from Olde Blighty.
Saturday 1 December 2012
Big Week for Mariana
We had the last of the Poker Events for 2012 last night in the condo party room. There were 17 players. In the past we have had a handful of women play. Last night only the H-Girls could make it, with a couple of late scratches. Mariana a popular winner and serious poker player took home first place, beating her most fierce rival, Charlie Brown. It was a sweet victory. Mariana is a regular on-line and casino player. She did not hide her pleasure at winning and in particular beating CB. Brown took 3rd place.
The most entertaining player, again, was the unpredictable Jimmy. He swept my preliminary table, before his frequent "I'm all-in" strategy confounded the final table. It was effective, as no one had a clue if Jimmy was bluffing. He just wanted to go for a smoke. He almost quit several times. The restless Jimmy doesn't like to sit for too long. His co-worker and long time friend, Mariana, finally put him out of his misery.
To add to the hyper competitive Mariana's big week, she took home first place in the Walking Contest. I am known as an avid walker. People frequently comment "Oh, that D'Arcy is a walker of note!'. I walk to and from work and an hour each night. They say you should walk at least 10,000 steps a day. That is aprox. 5-miles. Very few people actually do walk 10,000 steps. I was bragging to the H-Girls, as I frequently do, that I was probably the best walker that they knew. They scoffed at the very notion. A contest was born.
First prize would be a small engraved trophy purchased by the losers, the right to be called Champion for the remainder of 2012 and a chocolate cake. I lent Donut Girl, Ana, one of my i-Pod nanos, equipped with very accurate pedometers. All 3 of us would have the same recording device. After a couple of false starts, due to H-Girl's technical difficulties, the contest began 2-weeks ago. The photo of my pedometer results, I dropped the i-Pod while viewing shattering the glass, showed 101,000 steps at the end of the week. That by the way is over 50-miles. Mariana sent a photo of her total, an astounding 121,000 steps, or over 60 miles.
Donut Girl's nano broke down on Friday of the contest, which ended Midnight Saturday. She claimed the contest was no longer valid. I saw her total late Thursday night, she had 62,000 steps. At that time I had 71,000. I completed an additional 30,000 steps over the last 2-days and still lost to Mariana by 20,000 steps. Ana claims she easily walked 60,000 steps over the last two days. As the Commissioner of the contest, I ruled she finished in 3rd place. Mariana was only interested in the trophy, so Ana was awarded the 3rd place cake as a consolation. It was all we could do to stop her complaining.
The most entertaining player, again, was the unpredictable Jimmy. He swept my preliminary table, before his frequent "I'm all-in" strategy confounded the final table. It was effective, as no one had a clue if Jimmy was bluffing. He just wanted to go for a smoke. He almost quit several times. The restless Jimmy doesn't like to sit for too long. His co-worker and long time friend, Mariana, finally put him out of his misery.
To add to the hyper competitive Mariana's big week, she took home first place in the Walking Contest. I am known as an avid walker. People frequently comment "Oh, that D'Arcy is a walker of note!'. I walk to and from work and an hour each night. They say you should walk at least 10,000 steps a day. That is aprox. 5-miles. Very few people actually do walk 10,000 steps. I was bragging to the H-Girls, as I frequently do, that I was probably the best walker that they knew. They scoffed at the very notion. A contest was born.
First prize would be a small engraved trophy purchased by the losers, the right to be called Champion for the remainder of 2012 and a chocolate cake. I lent Donut Girl, Ana, one of my i-Pod nanos, equipped with very accurate pedometers. All 3 of us would have the same recording device. After a couple of false starts, due to H-Girl's technical difficulties, the contest began 2-weeks ago. The photo of my pedometer results, I dropped the i-Pod while viewing shattering the glass, showed 101,000 steps at the end of the week. That by the way is over 50-miles. Mariana sent a photo of her total, an astounding 121,000 steps, or over 60 miles.
Donut Girl's nano broke down on Friday of the contest, which ended Midnight Saturday. She claimed the contest was no longer valid. I saw her total late Thursday night, she had 62,000 steps. At that time I had 71,000. I completed an additional 30,000 steps over the last 2-days and still lost to Mariana by 20,000 steps. Ana claims she easily walked 60,000 steps over the last two days. As the Commissioner of the contest, I ruled she finished in 3rd place. Mariana was only interested in the trophy, so Ana was awarded the 3rd place cake as a consolation. It was all we could do to stop her complaining.
Monday 26 November 2012
Tuesday 20 November 2012
Grey Cup
I will be attending the Grey Cup game this weekend with my brother Brian. We do not have a horse in this race as we are Ti-Cat fans. Probably cheer for Calgary as the Argos are a hateful organisation. Always fun to hang around downtown on Grey Cup week, as there are people from across Canada visiting the bars. Brian is also attending the Vanier Cup on Friday as a McMaster alum. Good to see a Hamilton school compete. The bars should get a boost with all those students in town.
Congrats out to another brother Steve, a University Prof, who is getting a book published next year. It is not a Blog about nothing, but an impressive feat none the less. Let's just say that we agree to disagree when it comes to politics and other issues, but no one is rushing to publish my musings. I'm a better cartoonist.
Also a shout out to Chris D'Arcy, the patriarch of the D'Arcy clan and a regular reader of this Blog. A big Notre Dame supporter. We are hoping for a National Championship and big victory over USC.
At least one of our teams has to win something. A Notre Dame v. Alabama National Championship game would be nice.
People in Toronto do not get too excited about a Grey Cup, even with the local team involved, but you can't help but notice the Grey Cup festivities taking over both Nathan Phillips Square and Dundas Square. Both public squares are near my office. I have heard not a single person mention the Grey Cup this week. There is a real disconnect with the local populous.
Congrats out to another brother Steve, a University Prof, who is getting a book published next year. It is not a Blog about nothing, but an impressive feat none the less. Let's just say that we agree to disagree when it comes to politics and other issues, but no one is rushing to publish my musings. I'm a better cartoonist.
Also a shout out to Chris D'Arcy, the patriarch of the D'Arcy clan and a regular reader of this Blog. A big Notre Dame supporter. We are hoping for a National Championship and big victory over USC.
At least one of our teams has to win something. A Notre Dame v. Alabama National Championship game would be nice.
People in Toronto do not get too excited about a Grey Cup, even with the local team involved, but you can't help but notice the Grey Cup festivities taking over both Nathan Phillips Square and Dundas Square. Both public squares are near my office. I have heard not a single person mention the Grey Cup this week. There is a real disconnect with the local populous.
Barber Shop Scandal
The inventors of the D'Arcy Cut, my Muslim barbers at Terminal Barbershop on University-Dundas in Toronto made international headlines last week. Not for their unique skilled use of shears, but for turning away a woman that wanted a Man's Cut. I'm unsure if she requested the D'Arcy Cut, her photos suggested she could not pull it off, but the barbers informed her that they could not touch a woman, that was not a relative. It was against their religion. She of course ran, not walked, to the Human Rights Commission to complain. She also called the press and gave numerous interviews.
It is interesting to see people squirm, as they do not know who to support. My support is with my barbers. I will double my visits to the shop as a sign of support. There is no way they are going to compromise. Are they allowed to operate a business in Toronto? I read interesting comments on both sides of the issue, but this is not an uni-sex shop. There are plenty of alternative hair salons. You can bet that their business picked up after the controversy.
It is interesting to see people squirm, as they do not know who to support. My support is with my barbers. I will double my visits to the shop as a sign of support. There is no way they are going to compromise. Are they allowed to operate a business in Toronto? I read interesting comments on both sides of the issue, but this is not an uni-sex shop. There are plenty of alternative hair salons. You can bet that their business picked up after the controversy.
Tuesday 13 November 2012
Glen Murray
Somebody explain to me how Glen Murray, ex-Mayor of Winnipeg, is qualified to be Premier of Ontario? He has lived in the province for all of 8-years. Winnipeg is the same size as Hamilton, does anyone think the Mayor of Hamilton is qualified to be premier? Is Winnipeg such a shinning example of civic exceptionalism, that a former mayor is qualified to govern a province 20 times its size?
From what I have noticed, Glen Murray is very good at promoting Glen Murray.The bottomline is that he is unfit, unqualified, too new to Ontario to be elected Liberal leader and automatic premier of Canada's most important and largest province.
We can do better, a lot better than Glen Murray. It is too bad that Dwight Duncan didn't run. He would have been my favourite.
From what I have noticed, Glen Murray is very good at promoting Glen Murray.The bottomline is that he is unfit, unqualified, too new to Ontario to be elected Liberal leader and automatic premier of Canada's most important and largest province.
We can do better, a lot better than Glen Murray. It is too bad that Dwight Duncan didn't run. He would have been my favourite.
Obama
Glad to see Obama prevail. I don't understand the deep seeded racism and vitriol of the extreme right-wing. They can't get over a black man as president. A black man that is a lot more competent than the last president.
They can't seem to accept that the largest terrorist attack in American history, second greatest economic collapse, 2 -decade long expensive wars waged, while failing to pay for them, failure of the US domestic auto industry, bankruptcy of numerous banks and largest insurance company, all happened under George W. Bush's watch. America was bleeding 500,000 jobs a month. Bush's response to Hurricane Katrina was tragically negligent.
Four years later America is adding 150,000 jobs a month. One war ended, the other about to end. The auto industry saved and the stock market at record high numbers. Healthcare for millions of previously uninsured. Domestic oil production expanded to the point that the US is on-track to be a net exporter of oil.
They can't seem to accept that the largest terrorist attack in American history, second greatest economic collapse, 2 -decade long expensive wars waged, while failing to pay for them, failure of the US domestic auto industry, bankruptcy of numerous banks and largest insurance company, all happened under George W. Bush's watch. America was bleeding 500,000 jobs a month. Bush's response to Hurricane Katrina was tragically negligent.
Four years later America is adding 150,000 jobs a month. One war ended, the other about to end. The auto industry saved and the stock market at record high numbers. Healthcare for millions of previously uninsured. Domestic oil production expanded to the point that the US is on-track to be a net exporter of oil.
Boating
I have been preoccupied with preparing to buy my new, old boat. It is already something of a money pit. I have authorised several repairs to make it seaworthy. I did have a survey done and the boat was in very good shape for its age. I have had to replace the horn, fix some lighting and wiring. Putting the boat in winter storage. I have been checking out marinas in the downtown Toronto area. While I was going to put the boat in the Outer Harbour Marina, I have not ruled out a change in venue. The advantage of the Outer Harbour is I know people there. But I also have my eye on some marinas closer to the core.
One thing I have discovered is that the price is almost identical in each marina. Ontario Place is still a possibility.
I had two of my brothers look at the boat on the weekend. I do believe they were impressed. I truly believe this will be a lifestyle altering vessel. There is a big learning curve.
One thing I have discovered is that the price is almost identical in each marina. Ontario Place is still a possibility.
I had two of my brothers look at the boat on the weekend. I do believe they were impressed. I truly believe this will be a lifestyle altering vessel. There is a big learning curve.
Saturday 3 November 2012
By-Law Boy Takes His Act to Sea
Pending the boat passing inspection I purchased the 30-foot boat below. In May 2013 I will taking my unique perspective of life to Lake Ontario. If you see me cruising the waters of Lake O, I respectfully request that you get out of my way, for your own safety.
I have no clue what I'm doing, or how to park that beast of a boat. I did my homework and checked out hundreds of boats on line. I boarded about a dozen boats over the past month. I only made an offer on this boat. I can thank David MacDonald, Richard Nicolle and Mark O'Donnell for assisting me on my search for a boat.
If you think I must be walking around with money to burn, consider that I do not own a car. I'm parking this vessel a mile from my condo. The boat is 16-years-old and the cost would be similar to a lower to medium level car. I'm sure it will be a money pit in maintenance and gas.
I'm in need of summer recreation. I do not own, or have the desire for a cottage. I have experienced the joys of boating in the lake, right on our doorstep. It is an under used asset. I have been thinking about this for 2-years. I figure I'm not getting any younger.
I figure the short boating season in Ontario, May to October, is a good thing. There is a cost to winterise and store a boat, but it is a considerably less expensive than operating the boat year round. It allows the boats to age at a slower pace. As in golf, which has a parallel season, in the winter you look forward to the upcoming season in the colder months.
I have signed up for numerous courses. I have two of the 3 licenses I will need. I have to buy insurance. The boat will stay in the dealers outdoor lot for the winter. It is located about 60KM from Toronto.
I hired a guy to conduct a survey of the boat. He will inspect it from stem to stern. I'm also having the two motors tested. The deal to buy the boat is contingent on the boat passing inspection. From my untrained eye, it sure looks to be in great shape for its age. Boats do not age like cars. There are not as many moving parts. They are used much less frequently.
My biggest worry is backing it into a slip. I will take 2-week days off at the beginning of the season to do nothing but practise parking, as well as some other boating skills. If you are thinking this is a big boat for a rookie, the advice I received from experienced Great Lakes boaters was to go bigger, not smaller. It wont take long to learn the skills needed and you will regret buying a smaller boat.
I have no clue what I'm doing, or how to park that beast of a boat. I did my homework and checked out hundreds of boats on line. I boarded about a dozen boats over the past month. I only made an offer on this boat. I can thank David MacDonald, Richard Nicolle and Mark O'Donnell for assisting me on my search for a boat.
If you think I must be walking around with money to burn, consider that I do not own a car. I'm parking this vessel a mile from my condo. The boat is 16-years-old and the cost would be similar to a lower to medium level car. I'm sure it will be a money pit in maintenance and gas.
I'm in need of summer recreation. I do not own, or have the desire for a cottage. I have experienced the joys of boating in the lake, right on our doorstep. It is an under used asset. I have been thinking about this for 2-years. I figure I'm not getting any younger.
I figure the short boating season in Ontario, May to October, is a good thing. There is a cost to winterise and store a boat, but it is a considerably less expensive than operating the boat year round. It allows the boats to age at a slower pace. As in golf, which has a parallel season, in the winter you look forward to the upcoming season in the colder months.
I have signed up for numerous courses. I have two of the 3 licenses I will need. I have to buy insurance. The boat will stay in the dealers outdoor lot for the winter. It is located about 60KM from Toronto.
I hired a guy to conduct a survey of the boat. He will inspect it from stem to stern. I'm also having the two motors tested. The deal to buy the boat is contingent on the boat passing inspection. From my untrained eye, it sure looks to be in great shape for its age. Boats do not age like cars. There are not as many moving parts. They are used much less frequently.
My biggest worry is backing it into a slip. I will take 2-week days off at the beginning of the season to do nothing but practise parking, as well as some other boating skills. If you are thinking this is a big boat for a rookie, the advice I received from experienced Great Lakes boaters was to go bigger, not smaller. It wont take long to learn the skills needed and you will regret buying a smaller boat.
Wednesday 31 October 2012
Raptors
The Raptors open up the season tonight. There is new found optimism due to a rookie starter from Lithuania. With the NHL on ice, or off the ice, there is a real chance the Raps could steal the spotlight. I know I'm going to watch. I hate to hedge my bets, but they are an MLSE team.
I'm going to have my fourth Poker night of 2012 in late November. I promise less drama with a slightly restricted guest list. No one that has been thrown out of a previous event is allowed back. It is a small list. No one that has attempted to steal alcoholic beverages, with the exception of KJ. I know the Colombian girls are on the lookout for troublemakers. From my experience they are not to be messed with.
If you read the National Post today you will note that a Justin Trudeau lead Liberal Party would win a majority today. That is less a reflection of Trudeau's perceived competence than frustration, particularly in Eastern half of the country, with the incompetence of the undemocratic Harper government.
We can do better than Stephen "The Dictator" Harper, Johnny "I'm a closeted Queen loving Queen" Baird, Tony "Moneybags" Clement, Peter "Small Little Boy" MacKay, Vic "Do as I say, Not as I do" Toews and the rest of one of the worst front benches in Canadian political history.
They made a big deal of the passing of Lincoln Alexander last week. A tribute should be paid to the people of Hamilton that elected a black man to Parliament in the 1960's. Here we are in 2012 and there are millions of Americans, including some very prominent ones like Donald Trump, that are upset that a black man is president.
I want to pay tribute to the much maligned, but thrice elect, Premier Dalton McGuinty. Rob Ford's band of redneck supporters complain that the Toronto Star picks on their Dear Leader, but the Toronto Sun was unrelenting in its negative Dalton articles. Dalton made a huge error in cancelling the gas plant in Oakville, but what was forgoten was that the other two opposition leaders made the same promise. At least he didn't sell the 407, or bury the Eglinton subway like Mike Harris. McGuinty did a fine job as premier. I was hoping that Dwight Duncan would run to replace him, but he has ruled out the leadership.
I'm going to have my fourth Poker night of 2012 in late November. I promise less drama with a slightly restricted guest list. No one that has been thrown out of a previous event is allowed back. It is a small list. No one that has attempted to steal alcoholic beverages, with the exception of KJ. I know the Colombian girls are on the lookout for troublemakers. From my experience they are not to be messed with.
If you read the National Post today you will note that a Justin Trudeau lead Liberal Party would win a majority today. That is less a reflection of Trudeau's perceived competence than frustration, particularly in Eastern half of the country, with the incompetence of the undemocratic Harper government.
We can do better than Stephen "The Dictator" Harper, Johnny "I'm a closeted Queen loving Queen" Baird, Tony "Moneybags" Clement, Peter "Small Little Boy" MacKay, Vic "Do as I say, Not as I do" Toews and the rest of one of the worst front benches in Canadian political history.
They made a big deal of the passing of Lincoln Alexander last week. A tribute should be paid to the people of Hamilton that elected a black man to Parliament in the 1960's. Here we are in 2012 and there are millions of Americans, including some very prominent ones like Donald Trump, that are upset that a black man is president.
I want to pay tribute to the much maligned, but thrice elect, Premier Dalton McGuinty. Rob Ford's band of redneck supporters complain that the Toronto Star picks on their Dear Leader, but the Toronto Sun was unrelenting in its negative Dalton articles. Dalton made a huge error in cancelling the gas plant in Oakville, but what was forgoten was that the other two opposition leaders made the same promise. At least he didn't sell the 407, or bury the Eglinton subway like Mike Harris. McGuinty did a fine job as premier. I was hoping that Dwight Duncan would run to replace him, but he has ruled out the leadership.
Monday 22 October 2012
Search
I started my long difficult search for a used boat this weekend. I saw two boats, both of which were manufactured when I was a rookie in the insurance business. I'm looking for something a little newer. It will not be easy considering my budget. I am learning more each day I look and have received a lot of help. My boss and I had a good conversation about what to look for today.
I held my 3rd poker event of 2012 in my condo party room a week ago. We had a great turnout of 22 players. Popeye Jimmy invited a couple of real characters, for their first and last appearance. The one guy tried to help himself with the leftover alcohol. A quick thinking Donut Girl was able to save the booze. The young man brought a duffel bag with him. He wanted to stuff his bag with whatever he could get his hands onto. How would this guy get onto the guest list? They were last minute additions from Jimmy's local. The second character was this guy's adopted sister. As this is a family blog I wont event get into what she was up to. She tried to earn a little money on the side. There were no takers and for the first and I hope last time, I had to escort both of them off the premises. That made for an interesting story. Other than those minor distractions, the poker tourney's are becoming epic events. We do not need to invite street people to attract a great crowd.
I held my 3rd poker event of 2012 in my condo party room a week ago. We had a great turnout of 22 players. Popeye Jimmy invited a couple of real characters, for their first and last appearance. The one guy tried to help himself with the leftover alcohol. A quick thinking Donut Girl was able to save the booze. The young man brought a duffel bag with him. He wanted to stuff his bag with whatever he could get his hands onto. How would this guy get onto the guest list? They were last minute additions from Jimmy's local. The second character was this guy's adopted sister. As this is a family blog I wont event get into what she was up to. She tried to earn a little money on the side. There were no takers and for the first and I hope last time, I had to escort both of them off the premises. That made for an interesting story. Other than those minor distractions, the poker tourney's are becoming epic events. We do not need to invite street people to attract a great crowd.
Sunday 14 October 2012
Sunday 7 October 2012
Frank Gehry King Street West
Frank Gehry, probably the most famous living architect in the world, was retained by David Mirvish to design three 80+ storey condos along King Street West, at the corner of John St. These condos would be the tallest in the country, maybe in North America.
I have read countless negative comments about the towers. We can automatically dismiss the comments of people that do not live in Toronto. Most of these people have an irrational hate-on for the city. They hate to see the city succeed. My concern is with the locals. The people that scream bloody murder anytime someone wants to build a tall building. They prefer a shade blocking slab structure over a thin super tall building. The fact is super-tall buildings are inevitable. Earlier in this blog you will note that a building was erected across the street from my condo, which blocks my view of the CN tower and robs me of some sunlight. I didn't write City Hall, it is a fact of urban life.
If you look at the buildings that will be demolished to make way for the Gehry condos, I can't see any reason to save them. They are painted over brick slab buildings, with limited architectural merit. They house low budget restaurants, a Tim's and a sports memorabilia shop. There is an underused theatre that shows tired musicals like Cats. I'll take 3-Gehry super-tall condos over slab buildings that are hardly unique in the core, or along King St. West. Check out King west of Spadina for many similar examples. Buildings that have not been painted over.
I live on King Street West, about a kilometre west of this site. I walk by the location daily. I have also recently invested in property at John and Adelaide, currently under construction. This new property will be one block north of the Gehry buildings and half their height. The Gehry buildings will block the sunlight from my investment property, but I understand that owning property close to these buildings will raise the value of all condos in the area. It will be a huge boon to Toronto.
I recall the negativity when they tore down underused slab buildings along Yonge and Dundas to construct a public square. The negative comments were endless. Today that square is the undisputed centre of the city. It has replaced nearby, and twice the size, Nathan Phillips square as the most important place where the city gathers.
People in the city have a hard time embracing change. We can't afford to let the city stagnate. It is like when North York's Gord Perks blocked an iconic pedestrian bridge over railway tracks, into Fort York in order to save a few bucks. Instead they will build a drab simple bridge. Mayor Ford did the same thing with renovations to Nathan Phillips. Let's save a couple of $Million and go small, instead of reaching for the stars. For a very big man, Ford thinks small.
I have read countless negative comments about the towers. We can automatically dismiss the comments of people that do not live in Toronto. Most of these people have an irrational hate-on for the city. They hate to see the city succeed. My concern is with the locals. The people that scream bloody murder anytime someone wants to build a tall building. They prefer a shade blocking slab structure over a thin super tall building. The fact is super-tall buildings are inevitable. Earlier in this blog you will note that a building was erected across the street from my condo, which blocks my view of the CN tower and robs me of some sunlight. I didn't write City Hall, it is a fact of urban life.
If you look at the buildings that will be demolished to make way for the Gehry condos, I can't see any reason to save them. They are painted over brick slab buildings, with limited architectural merit. They house low budget restaurants, a Tim's and a sports memorabilia shop. There is an underused theatre that shows tired musicals like Cats. I'll take 3-Gehry super-tall condos over slab buildings that are hardly unique in the core, or along King St. West. Check out King west of Spadina for many similar examples. Buildings that have not been painted over.
I live on King Street West, about a kilometre west of this site. I walk by the location daily. I have also recently invested in property at John and Adelaide, currently under construction. This new property will be one block north of the Gehry buildings and half their height. The Gehry buildings will block the sunlight from my investment property, but I understand that owning property close to these buildings will raise the value of all condos in the area. It will be a huge boon to Toronto.
I recall the negativity when they tore down underused slab buildings along Yonge and Dundas to construct a public square. The negative comments were endless. Today that square is the undisputed centre of the city. It has replaced nearby, and twice the size, Nathan Phillips square as the most important place where the city gathers.
People in the city have a hard time embracing change. We can't afford to let the city stagnate. It is like when North York's Gord Perks blocked an iconic pedestrian bridge over railway tracks, into Fort York in order to save a few bucks. Instead they will build a drab simple bridge. Mayor Ford did the same thing with renovations to Nathan Phillips. Let's save a couple of $Million and go small, instead of reaching for the stars. For a very big man, Ford thinks small.
Downtown Toronto Marathons
I have lived in downtown Toronto for 15-years, primarily on King St West. I have worked in the downtown core for 25 years. I know of what I speak when it comes to centre of Canada's largest city.
Let me start with another pet peeve for residents of the core. The Bank of Nova Scotia Marathon takes place next weekend. It runs through the downtown streets, making it impossible to drive out of the downtown. I rent cars on weekends and I'm not able to do so next weekend. It is near impossible to get around.
Now I understand that every city has a marathon and they are most likely going to use the downtown streets. Who wants to run through the suburbs? Anyone? The problem is that this is not the only marathon in downtown Toronto. In the Spring they run the Good Life Marathon. Again they shut down the downtown streets. They told the two marathons to get their act together and have one marathon. Instead they just split the dates. Boston and New York do not have two marathons. To top it off neither of the Toronto marathons is considered a prestigious race. At least take one of the marathons and hold it Scarborough, or Mississauga. They also shut down the streets for numerous 5k and 10k runs. Don't get me started on the bike-a-thons that shut down the Gardiner & Don Valley Expressways.
Give the taxpayers in the core a break and take some of these events to the suburbs. Or at least the Martin Goodman Trail along the waterfront.
Let me start with another pet peeve for residents of the core. The Bank of Nova Scotia Marathon takes place next weekend. It runs through the downtown streets, making it impossible to drive out of the downtown. I rent cars on weekends and I'm not able to do so next weekend. It is near impossible to get around.
Now I understand that every city has a marathon and they are most likely going to use the downtown streets. Who wants to run through the suburbs? Anyone? The problem is that this is not the only marathon in downtown Toronto. In the Spring they run the Good Life Marathon. Again they shut down the downtown streets. They told the two marathons to get their act together and have one marathon. Instead they just split the dates. Boston and New York do not have two marathons. To top it off neither of the Toronto marathons is considered a prestigious race. At least take one of the marathons and hold it Scarborough, or Mississauga. They also shut down the streets for numerous 5k and 10k runs. Don't get me started on the bike-a-thons that shut down the Gardiner & Don Valley Expressways.
Give the taxpayers in the core a break and take some of these events to the suburbs. Or at least the Martin Goodman Trail along the waterfront.
Tuesday 2 October 2012
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