Merry Christmas

MHRC Report Not Litter Box Worthy?

I had a discussion recently questioning how our society has (de)evolved to this point. That is such a wide-ranging discussion it boggles the mind.

But where a recent Manitoba Human Rights Commission’s report goes is one such answer to the question. Tom Brodbeck accurately ascribes this report as being not litter-box-worthy...

We have taken POLITICAL CORRECTNESS so far beyond the absurd we've almost completely paralyzed ourselves.

It's cartoonish.

We have created a double-standard that is actually seen as acceptable.

As an example, apply for a government job. You are given preferential treatment if you are a native, a woman or a person with a disability. A white able-bodied male is discriminated here. And that is okay.

Reverse discrimination has swung the pendulum too far. A perfect example is a government report that cries wolf with wholly unsubstantiated anecdotes.

Our justice system (???) coddles natives because they had it tough growing up. It nurtures the 14 year old car thieves because they are afflicted with FASD. It releases goons on time served after a vicious beating death yet keeps Robert Latimer in jail.

Then I heard of some bozo MLA (Drew Caldwell - Brandon) we've elected to serve us taunting and heckling another MLA.

And I got my answer.

This is the type of people we have leading us beyond every moronic and idiotic characterization I've described here.

God help us all if we don't change things.

And soon.

Arrogance and The Parking Authority

As I drove southbound on Balmoral Street, behind the Great West Life building, I noticed a City of Winnipeg truck parked on the east side of the street, facing Broadway. What made me give it more than a passing interest was that vehicle's driver was crossing the street with a camera in his hand to photograph an illegally parked car. It was then I noticed his truck was a Parking Enforcement vehicle, and it was parked directly in front of a fire hydrant.

Now let's add up the offences here:

1. City of Winnipeg vehicle parked on east side of the street, facing Broadway. This is a clearly marked no parking zone.
2. City of Winnipeg Parking Enforcement driver, crossing the street in the middle of the block. This is jaywalking.
3. City of Winnipeg vehicle was parked directly in front of fire hydrant. A FIRE HYDRANT.
   

I took out my cell phone with its' built in camera, and walked up to the driver, now back in his City of Winnipeg truck. I asked this fellow under what conditions was he allowed to park illegally.

His reply: "as long as he is doing his job."

It was my understanding, wrongly I later learned, that no vehicles were allowed to break traffic laws unless operating under very specific emergency conditions. Which I thought meant that Fire, Police and Ambulance drivers operate under strict conditions under which they could ignore traffic laws.

So I suggested to this individual that he was incorrect. I alerted him to the fact that not even Fire, Police and Ambulance drivers were allowed to park illegally unless under certain emergency protocols. He then drove off.

To my utter amazement he simply drove forward a few car lengths and parked. Again illegally.

So off I went to again remind him that he was not permitted to park illegally. He continued to assert his right to park illegally while ticketing illegally parked cars.

The irony here is delicious.

I didn't expect this arrogant and officious bureaucrat to change his ways. So I called the city Parking Authority. It was just before 5PM so there was nobody home to speak with. I left a message asking that someone call me the next day to discuss this situation.

I'm not so sure I'll hear from the City's Parking Authority... BUT, I mentioned it to a former member of Winnipeg Mayor Sam Katz' Executive Policy Committee yesterday evening. We all shook our heads and tsk tsked. Maybe I will hear from someone...

--------------------------------------

UPDATE
The Winnipeg Parking Authority actually called me. Credit where credit is due.

Here is the kicker. There is a city by-law that permits ANY city vehicle to park anywhere they bloody well want provided it is a "necessity" of their work.

By-law 1573/77 Section 32

PARKING EXEMPTIONS
32. The provisions of this by-law prohibiting or regulating stopping and parking shall not apply to:
(a) vehicles of the Police Department of the City of Winnipeg;
(b) vehicles of or employed by the City of Winnipeg while in use in connection with work of necessity being done in or near a highway requiring them to stop or be parked in contravention of any such provisions; and
(c) vehicles of the Government of Manitoba, the Government of Canada, or a public utility if such vehicles have the owner’s name painted thereon and are actually engaged in work of necessity on or near a highway requiring them to stop or be parked in contravention of any such provisions.

Necessity is not defined.

So, two sets of rules. One for citizens and one for the government. It is assumed therefor that writing a parking ticket is a necessity and it is acceptable to park illegally to write an illegal parking ticket.

Unbelievable eh?

Two Writers, Two POVs

Leonard Asper wants to own the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Leonard Asper wants to build a big new football stadium. Leonard Asper wants government to kick in 80m dollars.

There are two diametrically opposed schools of thought on this: one heavily weighing in against it; one thinking it would be a terrific addition to the City.

In our fair city we have a plethora (great word eh) of writers that think theirs is the definitive word. One even thinks his is the only view that matters and dismisses others with differing views. Actually, more than one. But that is another story for another day.

Read for your self. Then let's talk. What do you think?

Tom Brodbeck, Winnipeg Sun. Click here.

Randy Turner, Winnipeg Free Press. Click Here.

Is there a middle ground?

Self Worth, Self Determination, Self Help

Self worth. The first order of business is to give back a sense of self-worth. Pride naturally follows self-worth. And self-determination, responsibility and accountability follow pride.

As I read that it sounds more than a little pompous and condescending. I don't mean to be. But I'm not a professionally trained writer and maybe I struggle to put my thoughts down in a meaningful - not hurtful, way. Mine are simple ideas within an incredibly complex frame. Bear with me.

How do we begin? With hand-ups not hand-outs. There is a monstrous welfare state to tear down. We can't simply keep throwing piles of money around. That exacerbates the problem.

Employment. Education.

In one scenario a group of natives are bored silly. Every month come allowance time, we dole out a handful of cash, pat 'em on the head and say "there you go, you're good for the rest of the month."

In this scenario unemployment is almost 100%. There is nothing to do. Restless and bored, the answer is to par-tay. A few days later the money is gone, the hangover is raging, and now withdrawals are kicking in.

You see, nothing has changed. Except the money is gone. There is nothing left to buy groceries. Nothing left to clothe the children. Nothing left to fix the house.

Now in another scenario instead of simply handing out a pile of cash why not create jobs so people can earn an income? If houses and roads need repair create a company that fixes houses and roads. If children need day care then create a day care.

Instead of sitting around drinking and fighting, watching TV and procreating, now the formerly bored have a respectful job and earn an income, and stay busy. The homes they live in are clean and well kept. The children are well-cared for. Now more money is available to build more homes. Buy more equipment. Expand the businesses off reserves.

With the improved infrastructure kids stay in schools and receive an education. Graduate. On to university and community college becoming doctors and teachers and plumbers and electricians. When they return to their homes they bring with them skills to further develop the reserve.

Eventually, possibly, self-determination. Self-help.

Our Home and Native(s) Land

There has been a lot said lately about aboriginal self-determination, responsibility and accountability. In newspapers and television reports we are hearing about tragic child murders on Manitoba reserves. Amazing land claim rights. Residential school payouts. Urban reserves in and near Winnipeg. Missing university funds. Alcoholism and unemployment. So much angst...

If all that doesn't get your attention then how about reports that while aboriginals represent 10% of the overall population of Manitoba they represent 20% of Manitoba's youth under 15 and 80% of our jails and prisons.

Now have I got your attention? This blog is about to take a (temporary) detour. I invite all to come along. We won't solve anything here but perhaps we can stimulate some interesting dialog.

I don't have all the answers and I'm not prejudiced. But it might seem that way, and I might actually be wrong, and not for the first time! But I do mean well in my thoughts and ideas, musings and ramblings.

So what is the problem and can we help?

Many years ago most of Canada's aboriginals were banished to mostly remote tracts of land, ostensibly in exchange for something of value. Additionaly the government promised to take care of those aboriginals seemingly in perpetuity and keep throwing money their way with (apparently) mostly little long term thought.

Banished is probably too strong a word. In perpetuity might be overstating things just a little. However, let's assume that is pretty much the way it was.

What we accomplished (?), over many generations, was to create a society that could not or would not take care of itself. Okay, yes, I am generalizing and painting an entire civilization with the same brush. I merely wish to paint as vivid a picture of the current state in Canada, AS I SEE IT, as I can.

What we end up with is a class of people who wait for someone else to take care of them. Funnel in the money to feed, educate, house, nurse...

We took away a sense of responsibility and accountability and built a society that has a limited understanding of value leading to ever-greater problems.

Homes and other buildings deteriorate. Children are abandoned. Apathy begins. This is how the vicious cycle begins.

The environment becomes unpleasant. Infrastructure falls apart. People begin to medicate themselves with alcohol and other drugs, including some very toxic cocktails, in an attempt to forget. This is how the vicious cycle is perpetuated.

Now we have a very angry society. This is how the vicious cycle becomes inflamed.

The angriest begin demanding that every ill afflicting Canada's aboriginals be fixed, and now. Throw more money at things. Many make outrageous demands and take illegal actions.

This leads to angry retribution. Most hear only the constant demands and the rhetoric. With too little understanding of the issues, people resist. And fight back. With words. With action.

That sets the table.

We have an increasing segment of Canadian society that cannot or will not take care of themselves, while growing angrier and angrier. Some are doing well and will share with others the key's to their success. Most do nothing.

Therein lies Canada's challenge.

Is it morning again?

I have always been an early riser. Used to be a nicotine fix necessitated an early rise. However since I quit smoking many years ago and I continue to wake up at some godforsaken times, it must be the critters fault. Mostly, I awaken to Toba, the dog, and Dahg, a cat, vying for space on the bed. It is a large bed, but they must feel an undeniable need to squish up as close to my head and legs as possible.

When they demand more attention they create enough of a disturbance that the queen of the household, Pokey, a 9 pound calico, jumps up on the bed. Now there are two cats, a dog and one tired old man on the bed and no one is happy. Further compounding the matter, Dahg really does not like Pokey and vice versa. So when Pokey jumps up the growling begins.

Two cats meowing, chirping, growling. One dog whining. A tired oldish man. And, It's only FIVE am.

Get up. Where to begin. First thing is Toba goes out to do her business. It's cooler outside and frost last night leaves the grass quite damp. She piddles right away and I am pleased. Inside I wipe her feet and let her loose.

Next, to the computer. My morning ritual includes checking emails and reading one of the local newspapers on-line. Not as easy as you'd think. Toba has energy to burn before doggy daycare. And there are so many interesting things to do toys to play with. If it was only Toba perhaps I could get through it relatively easily.

Not so, as Dahg requires my undivided attention. Without fail Dahg arrives in a flash on the top of my desk, meow-purring for my undivided attention. She is an 18 pound cat that MUST be held. There is no avoiding this. She also drinks water by dipping her paw in her water dish and licking her paw. I get the added pleasure of her soggy paws and paw prints on the desktop. It's glass.

Gumby used to be at my feet. Amazingly, with Gumby gone Pokey has actually taken up this activity. This is my clue that it is time to feed the cats, clean the litter bin, drive Toba to doggy daycare and get myself off to work.

I wouldn't have it any other way.

Who Says What's Right?

I've been reading, and contributing to, some interesting blog discussions lately. I'm amazed at the narrow-mindedness of some people.

In Lindor Reynolds Winnipeg Free Press blog "Talk of the Town" Reynolds wrote about the death of Gage Guimond in Another Dead Child. What gob smacked me were the many who blamed CFS but absolved the birth parents of responsibility. Even more perplexing was Reynolds dismissal of those whose position was contrary to hers.

In another Winnipeg Free Press blog, Mike on Crime, Mike McIntyre opined a piece on Winnipegger Kevin Hiebert and his struggles in a Greek prison. Mr. Hiebert has many friends and supporters who are intent on getting him out of Greece and home to a nice comfy Canadian prison. Their arguments include his was an innocent mistake and if he committed his crime in Canada he'd be out by now.

Most ignore the fact that this man's innocent mistake was to smuggle two KILOGRAMS of cocaine into Greece. For the imperially challenged that is 4.4092 pounds. 70.548 ounces. Any way you measure it, it is an incredible amount of drugs.

And to top it off the Greek government had the unmitigated gall to try the man in Greek. What has the world come to? Does this man not have Canadian rights? Oops, oh yeah. Pulled his little stunt in Greece don't cha know... C'est la vie.

Much like Reynolds above, Hieberts supporters dismiss contrary opinion out of hand. What strikes me is the level of righteous indignation they display towards those that don't agree with them.

We all have an opinion, some stronger than others. I've asked the same question twice now: who gets to decide who is right?

It is time we all took responsibility for our own actions.

-jwh

More on Gumby

I was called to pick up Gumby's cremated remains today. I'm not real sure what I'll do with them. It brings back to me the reality Gumby is gone..

Many, many times this week I thought about Gumby. I have no clue if this makes me weird or eccentric or normal.

There are so many things that happen around the house that make me think of my little buddy. I know I often find myself reminiscing. I think the one most haunting memory is a special look Gumby gave me. It was his "attend to me" look. Impossible to deny.

I went looking for photos of Gumby. Not enough for my liking. I think maybe now I understand why my sisters take so many pictures, annoying as it is. Better to have and remember than not. I do have one portrait that captures Gumby so well. Money well spent.

So, take care of your beloved pets. Take lot's of pictures. And remember the pure joy they bring into your life.

Gumby Hogan 1998 - 2007

It is with a real heavy heart that I find myself grieving the passing of a truly wonderful pet. Gumby Hogan passed away at 2:30pm, Wednesday, July 25, due to complications with diabetes. Gumby was first diagnosed with diabetes in 2005. He survived two prior near misses but did not win this battle.

Gumby came bouncing into my life when he was 7 weeks old in November, 1998. A charmer, Gumby was always a character, behaving more like a dog than a cat and quickly became the king of the castle. He had me at meow.

Gumby always rushed to the door to greet everyone. He supervised tradespeople during their activities. Hissed and spit at only one person in the world, other than the vet.

Gumby always curled up with me at bedtime. And woke me in the morning telling me it was time to feed him. He occasionally woke me at 3am. 4am. 5am. Whenever he felt I'd slept long enough.

Since he was the first of an eventual three cats and a dog he believed he was in charge. I sense his first companion, a beautiful little girl named Pokey (what else?), is showing signs she misses him.

It amazes me, why I'm not sure, how we become so emotionally attached to our pets. They really are like our children and our friends. He truly was a wonderful loving pet and I miss him terribly.

I'd like to thank the kind folks at the Tuxedo Animal Hospital for the care and compassion they showed Gumby.

Rest in peace Gumby, you were a good friend.

Inspiration and Other Rambling Bits

I've been searching out and reading many many blogs. I use a simple search command on Google Blog Search: "Winnipeg" and I read what comes up.

One such blog, titled Colleen's Corner, is quite inspiring. Colleen writes about her recent trip to the Forks here in Winnipeg to celebrate Canada Day festivities there. Since it was written by a fellow Winnipegger, and as it touched upon a subject near and dear to my heart, I read it. I found her writing interesting, causing me to read more of her posts. This is a nice inspiring blog to read.

==========================

The flip side follows my encounter with a poster on Tom Brodbeck's blog Raise a Little Hell. It is not the first time I've run into such negative folk. It is the first time I've run into a poster that made it personal. My normal response to such a diatribe would be to unleash a verbal storm of invectives. But that would only fan the flames of this man's incredible anger. Unbelievably mind-boggling.

==========================

Other blogs and internet sites have provided me with some of the neat-o tools along the right hand side of my blog. The most recent was the Flickr badge (from Colleen's Corner) and the clock (from Felyne's blog). And here is a nice photo of the Canada Day fireworks from under the Norwood Bridge, expropriated from the Winnipeg Free Press - unh, thanks..

If anyone is reading this blog, and has interesting blogs you think I should read, or other neat-o tools, please let me know.

==========================

I recently accepted a new position with a small Winnipeg firm. The Winnipeg Free Press ran an announcement about it in today's edition. It's not everyday you get your name in the paper.

==========================

Lastly, today is my birthday.

cheers, jwh

Murdering Bambi

On Wednesday, June 27, the Winnipeg Sun ran a story about the brutal and senseless killing of a baby deer by an officious Manitoba government employee.

It seems this deer was illegally kidnapped and subsequently nursed back to health by the Stanbra family in Komarno, Manitoba. Rather than allow this family to raise this animal Manitoba Conservation officers felt killing it was more humane. Unbelievable!

Apparantly it would be too expensive to raise this animal. The cost did not seem to bother the Stanbra's. Why not allow them to continue raising the animal? And then let nature take its course.

I can't express strongly enough how completely idiotic this stance is. What could these complete and utter morons have been thinking?

An Open Letter to Jack Dubois,
Director, Conservation Department,
Wildlife & Ecosystem Protection Branch

The handling of the baby deer incident was deplorable and reprehensible. The behaviour of you and your staff was outrageous. Your personal attitude towards the killing of this animal "because of cost" and claim of "illegally kidnapped" is completely asinine.

I demand you apologize to the Stanbra family. I further demand you change your "rules" immediately. There is NEVER a time when killing an innocent otherwise healthy animal is okay.

How, in the name of god, is killing an animal better than allowing it to be raised on a farm? Even if the animal ran away and was otherwise killed it would be more humane than your actions.

You ought to be ashamed of yourself.

###

If you want to reach Dubois, give him a call @ 204 945-7761. Let him know how you feel.

cheers

Blogging Winnipeg

This sport called blogging is quite an interesting pastime. I look for Winnipeg-related posts in other blogs to see what is being said and spread around the cyber-world. It's interesting to say the least.

Several of the more interesting dynamics include rambling, going off topic, flawed logic, personal attacks, thin-skinned sensitive over-reaction and, frankly, extreme stupidity.

On the other hand there are those that can partake in this activity who provide solid reasoned commentary, who understand subtle nuances and innuendo. Who don't take valid rebuttal as a personal attack.

It pleases me that there are many Winnipeggers who are just as passionate about this city as I am. It is also interesting to hear from folks foreign to Winnipeg and their views, pro or con, on the daily happenings in my fair city.

In my search for "the rules of blogging" I found no hard and fast rules. Apropos to be sure. Rules don't really apply in blogging. There's an exception to everything and everything else is excepted. Having said that, and with zero credit to anyone, enjoy.

You're going to piss somebody off sometime. Different strokes for different folks. Others are going to get upset over the content of your posts and comments. So what? C'est la vie.

Don't get worried if somebody gets angry at you. It's not the end of the world and it's not the end of your blog. As long as you're writing and visiting/commenting/tracking honestly the vast majority of people out there are perfectly happy with you. Don't concern yourself about the ones with gentle sensibilities who can't overlook a mistake or simple lack of experience.

Keep on point. Nothing irritates more than a poster comparing apples to oranges when making a point on a topic. If'n you can't sustain your argument while staying on topic, move on.

Many bloggists and posters have little info-nuggets bouncing around in their noggins. Many post these nuggets as facts. I'm guilty of that little trap. When challenged just acknowledge the error of your ways and move on. To avoid that embarrassing problem, do a little research.

Remember. You can agree with me or you can be wrong.

cheers

Technorati Profile

The Arrogance of John Hoevin

The Devils Lake Diversion

Over the years Canada and the US have been great friends and neighbors. This is not likely to change much despite the actions of a few misguided individuals.

One such individual is the Governor of North Dakota John Hoeven and his minions. It seems Hoeven cares little about Manitoba, and even less for the ecosystems of rivers and lakes in North Dakota and Manitoba.

A little background. Devils Lake, a lake in northern North Dakota is causing significant problems to that state, including flooding and subsequent land lost. To combat the problem North Dakota built a diversion that lowers the water level of Devils Lake.

The problem arises due to this diversion of water, c/w its foreign species, ultimately ending up in Lake Winnipeg. The risk is those species cause havoc to one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world.

It is said a simple $10 million filter would minimize the problem. Therein lies the rub.

The problem is exacerbated by the sheer arrogance displayed by Hoeven in his response to complaints by Canadian and Manitoban officials. You see, he refuses to build the filter despite an agreement between Washington and Ottawa.

"We don't object to the (advanced) filter with two provisions -- that North Dakota doesn't incur an expense and, second, that it doesn't impede the operation of the outlet," said Don Canton, spokesman for Hoeven.

The incredible stupidity of this position is awe-inspiring.

I'm sure there will be tit-for-tat rebuttals. Manitoba's Premier, Gary Doer, is already threatening such action. That likely won't help much, but we need to get Hoeven's attention.

For Hoeven's benefit I looked up some statistics on Canada - North Dakota trade. I believe these numbers will impress him. Stats circa 2004.

North Dakota Tourism

Visits by Canadians	340,300
$ spent	$48 million
Visits to Canada	72,800
$ spent	$25 million

North Dakota Trade

Exports to Canada	$462 million
Imports from Canada	$1.3 billion
Bilateral trade	$1.7 billion
Largest export market	Canada

North Dakota trades more with Canada than over 25 of its next top export markets combined.

So, Mr. Hoeven. Do you even care?

With files from the Winnipeg Free Press and Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada.

Winnipeg, Winnipeg, How I Love Thee Winnipeg

I have only recently begun to participate in this thing called "blogging". It's interesting and addictive.

Whilst I read other blogs I have discovered there are those that have something negative to say about Winnipeg and tend to say it. Incredibly, it's all too often fellow Winnipeggers that niggle at this fine burgh. Or those that have moved away, to discover utopia.

One of my passions is my home town. I'm not sure why. I do know there are many, many other Winnipeggers that share my passion. I also know there are a few that have little use for my city.

During that voyage of discovery I've found myself defending Winnipeg often. I even wrote a letter to the editor of a Winnipeg paper complaining about the propensity of negative stories featuring Winnipeg. Got published!

Remember, this is a blog about Winnipeg. My intent was to post stories that were meaningful to me about... Winnipeg. Since no city is perfect, including Winnipeg, I expect to write posts that are both pro and con.

I'd like some help. But I'll start. What I love about Winnipeg.

• Really nice warm people.
• Great small-BIG city; big enough to have all the amenities; small enough it takes no time to get "there".
• Salisbury House and Gondola Pizza. You just have to grow up with them to know what I mean.
• Great people. Mostly.
• Smog free.
• No traffic jams. Well, only a few. Not worth mentioning really.
• The Winnipeg Jets. This is the most popular non-existent sports franchises known to man.
• The Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Canada's team. Note to world: they will win the 2007 Grey Cup.
• Best Spring-Summer-Fall in the whole world. The winter is "challenging".
• Great arts community. I'm not big on Ballet, Symphonies, Choral stuff. But others are. And we gots some of the very best.
• A gud edumacation sistem. Real afordabble-like too.
• Excellent people. Real easy to meet. Unpretentious.
• Very affordable real estate. It has taken off a bit in the last 3 or 4 years, but still a good bargain can be found.
• Excellent neighborhoods.
• Oh, I should add that the people of Winnipeg are terrific.
  

There's ton's more. I'm hoping to add to this from readers of Winnipeg Dash Blog. If any.

cheers

A Disturbing Awareness

I've been reading, with alarming regularity, about the deterioration of City of Winnipeg services.

The most curious to be sure concerns the offloading of contracting city services to the average citizen. It seems a homeowner had a rather unfortunate sewer incident. Reportedly his sewer line and the city main trunk parted ways, roughly in the middle of the street in front of his house.

Even the most cynical will not believe what happened next. You see, even though the failure was on city property, and was no doubt the city's responsibility, the city did not view it that way.

Here is what happened. Keep in mind, this is city property.

• Homeowner obtains independent proof the failure is city responsibility.
• Homeowner convinces city bureaucrat that the failure is city responsibility while forced through hoops by bureaucrat.
• Note, zero sense of urgency on city behalf. Homeowner without use of water and toilets in own home for several DAYS.
  
• Homeowner obtains quotes from MULTIPLE City of Winnipeg approved sewer contractors to repair failure under the street.
• Homeowner selects contractor and PAYS for work to be done.
• After two weeks and seriously out of pocket, sewer is repaired.

Now you're probably thinking I'm making this up. Nope. Wish I were.

We hear all the time how the feds dump responsibilities on the provinces. And the provinces on municipalities.

Now it appears municipalities are downloading city services on rate-paying citizens. I can't imagine how city officials can possibly justify this. It seems incredulous.

Even under the most fortuitous circumstances citizens acting as purchasing agents, project managers and/or general contractors is a disaster waiting to happen.

The city is expected to hire people with the experience and the education to handle such things. They know what to look for. The tricks of the trade if you will. They should be capable of acting quickly, correctly identify the problem. Choose a qualified contractor. Pay for the services. FIX THE PROBLEM.

Remember City of Winnipeg bureaucrats, you get what you pay for.

Get your act together.

Shades of Gray

There is serious and ongoing debate about too few Winnipeg Police feet on the street. They don't have time to respond to take a vehicle theft report. There are too few to man community police centres. Or chase down parole violators.

But they can raid private clubs and lay charges against illegal gaming? I wonder who establishes priorities for the Winnipeg Police?

Don't get me wrong. The Winnipeg Police do a great job. I'm not a police basher. I'm also not a gambler. Not even casually. Thus establishing myself as fully unbiased in this matter...

The issue I have stems from how the police prioritize matters. The private gaming industry is full of ostensibly sane adults participating in something they enjoy, that hurts no one. And before our social conscience goes off on me no less an authority then the government runs and licenses "legal" gaming parlours all over Manitoba. So it MUST be harmless, right?

I read in the Winnipeg Free Press that SIXTY police officers participated in the raids. Wow, imagine how many car thefts might have been investigated. Or how many hours could the community police stations been manned?

I say to all Manitoba justice officials, to the Winnipeg Police, and our Provincial and Municipal politicians, 'tis time to seriously reevaluate your priorities. To assign such significant resources to prosecute an area of law bathed in shades of gray is asinine.

When choosing between going after scofflaws participating in activities that GOVERNMENT agencies sanction versus chasing car thief's and parole violators, I say go after the real criminals every time.

For gawd's sake people, give your heads a shake...

I Saw Bozo the Clown Driving in Winnipeg

I had an interesting encounter yesterday afternoon while driving eastbound Grant Avenue. I'll call it pseudo-road rage.

I first noticed this character, whom I'll call Bozo since he was driving like a clown, when out of nowhere he came upon my rear bumper real sudden-like, and just as quickly changed lanes to my left, and tail-gated the car ahead of him in that lane.

It was only at that point did he slow, since there were several other cars ahead of us. But this didn't discourage Bozo. On no. Not for a moment. He continued to tail-gate until he noticed that my lane suddenly had room for him. So he abruptly changed back into the curb lane, and proceeded to tailgate me.

All the while splitting the lane just in case one lane opens up for him. Then, pause for effect, he found an opening, blew past everyone and flew down Grant until he arrived at the next red light. I passed him there, flipping him the subtle loser symbol, with a smirk on my face. The smirk was self-congratulatory of my driving with the flow of traffic, staying in my lane, arriving at the light and passing him.

Apparently Bozo was offended at the symbolic gesture. For as he caught me at yet another traffic light, he told me so. His argument was that he had a right to change lanes as often as he wanted. And who says he was tailgating. But what right do I have to flip him the "L" symbol? He was actually angry. I guess he didn't see the humor in it. Nor the irony. Unbelievable eh?

What a maroon.

Save us from Anita Neville

I don't imagine crime in Winnipeg is, on average, any worse than other major Canadian cities. Sure we have too many car thefts and too many murders. But, that is not the point.

There has been an incredible amount of attention to this issue in Winnipeg, and we've been saying loudly and clearly, we’ve had enough.

What we want, the average taxpayer, is our criminal justice system to dole out harsher penalties. One thing is certain: with the criminals behind bars, they cannot steal cars, rob gas bars or murder anyone. And maybe, stiffer sentences might act as deterrence.

Okay, okay. This post is not about the social infrastructure that some say provides the fertile feeding grounds for our criminals. I'll save that little nugget for another post.

This post is actually about our elected officials, Members of Parliament. It’s about accountability and partisan politics. It’s about the moronic, infantile political gamesmanship these people foist upon us.

The federal Conservatives based part of their election campaign partly upon law and order reform. They pledged to create a system that made penalties for crime more severe, and to create a system that viewed honest citizens and victims as the most important elements.

You see, we citizens and victims want our rights viewed as the primary consideration. Not as an afterthought.

In 2006 the feds attempted to pass this toughened bill through parliament. Trouble is the government is a minority government that requires opposition members to help pass the legislation. It became so watered down by federal liberals and the NDP it did not resemble the original legislation draft.

The federal Conservatives tried again recently.

Therein lies the rub. Manitoba's three Liberal MPs, Ray Simard (St. Boniface), Tina Keeper (Churchill) and Anita Neville (Winnipeg South Centre) voted against it. Again.

Neville said the bill was poor legislation because it stripped the judiciary of its sentencing powers and refused to support it. "It flew against the advice of many people in the justice system," said Neville, adding sentencing is often best left to judges after they've heard all the evidence in a case and not legislators.

"You have to leave the discretion to the judiciary."

She said her main concern with the bill was an escalating clause that would send criminals to prison for longer sentences with subsequent offences.

This Liberal MP continues to perplex and amaze me. That Neville is so out of touch with her constituency is staggeringly unbelievable.

You see, the entire point is to change the laws increasing jail sentences BECASE the justice system and the judges argue their hands are tied. Even if they want to hand out longer sentences they can not.

Now Neville says it’s up to the judiciary to determine what an appropriate sentence is.

What complete and utter horse@#$%. No, it is not. It is up to you and me. We need to tell our elected officials we DEMAND tougher penalties. We demand the justice system and the judiciary then respond accordingly by issuing sentences more apropos to the crime.

Neville has not considered what Winnipeggers and Manitobans want. She votes along party lines, even to the detriment of her constituents. When is enough enough?

Is this someone you want representing you? You can tell her to get her act together. Click here. Don’t expect a reply though. She has never responded to my letters. And I’m a constituent.

Saving Upper Fort Garry

Many years ago, almost 20, some very imaginative people had a vision that was both visionary and creative and contentious. They dreamed of a new meeting place at the Forks, at the historic junction of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers in Downtown Winnipeg.

Very few would have envisioned what it has become and what it means to Winnipeg today. The Forks is Winnipeg's number one tourist attraction as well as an extremely busy and popular meeting place for Winnipeggers and Manitobans alike.

This wonderful local continues to offer new and exciting elements. Last year North America's premier urban skateboarding park opened. In 2002 another contentious but ultima tely hugely successful, The Esplanade Riel Bridge opened, joining historic St. Boniface to the Forks. 8 years ago the beautiful Can West baseball park opened and proceeded to become the home of North America's most successful independent baseball team.

Expected in 2010 is the shining jewel of the Forks, The Canadian Museum of Human Rights. This incredible facility will become the most important museum of its kind, the worlds' foremost human rights museum.

None of this would have happened if not for the incredible foresight of a few visionaries in 1988. That is why it is so important to reconsider the decision to divide the historic Upper Fort Garry Gate into a dual residential, commercial/historic site project.

Rather than give in to the short-sighted monetary aspects consider the historic nature of the site and how easily and simply it could become part of The Forks renaissance. This is a natural extension to the Forks. We must not lose this opportunity.

Think you can make a difference? Contact your local city councilor, or Sam Katz, Mayor of Winnipeg.

The Differences Between Man and Woman

Blatantly stolen from Cliff Pickover, Reality Carnival

I want to ride my bicycle, I want to ride my bike

Bicycle bicycle bicycle
I want to ride my bicycle bicycle bicycle
I want to ride my bicycle
I want to ride my bike
I want to ride my bicycle
I want to ride it where I like
Words and Lyrics by Freddie Mercury, Queen

'Tis bicycle season in Winnipeg. Let the battle begin!

It seems there is an us against them mentality on our roads and streets. Rather than share the road and respect each other we are quite exuberant in staking our claim and demanding our rights...

I have a bike, but mostly I'm a motorist.

Some Winnipeg cyclists:

• ignore most if not all traffic signals, they are for CARS not cyclists after all...
  
• drive on the sidewalks, and give you a dirty look if you don't like them riding on sidewalks...
• press the button at crosswalks and ride across...
• drive the wrong way against traffic, mostly because they can...
• don't signal turns and lane changes...
  
• ride two and three abreast...
  

I think its because we grew up riding our bikes on (relatively) safe residential side streets, mostly ignoring traffic, and stop signs. When young, most drivers - likely our neighbours, forgive those transgressions and we blissfully assume it will always be thus.

Then we graduated to busier streets. Not so safe. More traffic. More signals. And in our blissful ignorance we forget that the rules of the road apply to EVERYONE. And we get righteous if we're confronted and forced to comply.

I know the arguments. Motorists don't play nice. Cyclists are forced to the sidewalks. We feel silly using arm signals. I'm in a hurry and can't walk my bike across the cross walk. The rules don't really apply to us do they?

Cyclists, the rules do apply to you. All of them. You must:

• obey all traffic signals.
• ride on roadways only, you are not permitted to ride on sidewalks, period.
• ride single file.

And, if you are breaking the rules, don't get so indignant if someone reminds you that you are an @#$%&(?.

Winnipeg Police, Open for Business

Closed Open for Business
The Winnipeg Police are back-pedaling as fast as they can about the announced closure of two community police centres in north Winnipeg. It was a mistake they say.

I have no problem accepting the fact mistakes happen. People correct them and we move on.

But they say the mistake was not an executive decision to close the centres. Rather it was the announcement itself that was a mistake.

I want to give them the benefit of the doubt. But this does not pass the smell test... I guess some poor schmuck in the communication department wrote a fictional press release completely independent of the decision makers eh?

Yeah, right.

Don't Get Your Hopes Up Jets Fans...

It seems Canadian Jim Balsillie has purchased the Nashville Predators, a hockey hotbed if ever there was one... A few months after backing out of the Pittsburgh Penguins purchase, Balsillie plunked down about a quarter-billion dollars for the Predators. But, don't get your hopes up Jets fans.

The reason Winnipeg does not have an NHL team is nobody with about a gazillion dollars lives here or is even from here. Really deep pockets will be the first priority of any "Jets" team owner.

Balsillie is also a native son of the Southern Ontario area and is likely predisposed to move a team to that neck of the woods. That being Kitchener/Waterloo/Cambridge or Hamilton. They are part of an area in Southern Ontario named the Golden Horseshoe. With a population exceeding 8 million, there is no doubt they can support another team so close to Toronto and Buffalo.

Another reason Winnipeg does not have an NHL team: the Winnipeg Capital Region at best is slightly more than 700,000 souls. There are some who question whether that is enough of a population base. A legitimate question.

There is no doubt about the passion Winnipeggers and Manitobans hold for their beloved Jets. And frankly the NHL's test of US markets must be nearing exhaustion by now. Certainly the NHL in Atlanta, Florida, Phoenix, Columbus, Tampa Bay, Raleigh and others is not long for those markets. Even Bettman is not long for that league, given the pathetic TV revenues from US networks.

There is hope Jets fans. And when that day comes, I'll be first in line to plunk down whatever it takes to get my rightful seat by god.

An Open Letter to Hugh McFayden

So what you say? This letter was written and eMAILed on January 31, 2007. It has been edited.

Dear Hugh,

I returned to Winnipeg in March last year after many years living and working in Toronto. I have become very alarmed at the current NDP government’s inability to grasp what this province needs to grow and succeed. I am frightened that they will continue their ways should they win the next election.

I’d like to share with you my view on the state of Manitoba. A fiercely proud Winnipegger, Manitoban and Canadian, I believe strongly in this province and particularly in this city. I’ve watched sadly as we play second fiddle to almost every province in Canada. We must do more to grow this province. Here then are my thoughts.

Manitoba’s Priorities
In 2007 forward we as Manitobans must identify priorities and establish public policy. What priorities are most relevant today and tomorrow? What are the issues affecting most Manitobans?

There are so many significant and important issues that must be focused on. Let’s concentrate on the most urgent priorities. Such as crime. Education. Health. Infrastructure. Business/Jobs. The Winnipeg Capital Region.

Business/Jobs
Firstly, let business run business. But let’s provide a business friendly environment that will attract new business and keep existing business in Manitoba. Let’s create a strong and clear strategy that business and government can relate to and build from. And stick to it. Don’t waffle. This will lead to more attractive and better paying jobs. This will attract people to the province, while keeping our youngest and brightest minds here.

Crime
The crime rate in Manitoba, particularly Winnipeg, is frighteningly high. Let’s assume the federal government is impotent. What can the Provincial government do to make things better?

Health care
We must deplete the bloated bureaucracy. Put our resources in the front lines. Create a strategic scorecard that accurately measures performance and publish it monthly. Don’t play games with measurements and targets. Try a businesslike approach. Use cold hard facts and work them.

Education
See above. Again we have too much money going to administration and not enough to the teachers and the learning environment. Cut the plethora of school divisions. Remove the school boards ability to tax and place the funding onus on the Provincial governments’ back, where it belongs.

The Winnipeg Capital Region
Manitoba goes as Winnipeg goes. One might equate funding policy in Manitoba to Quebec. (Arbitrarily) Quebec gets far too much of the federal public purse than maybe it should. Meaning other, possibly more deserving, areas get less. In Manitoba, rural Manitoba equals Quebec. This is a tough balance but managed correctly, Winnipeg can feed the whole province through spin-off benefits.

Infrastructure
Our roads and bridges, hospitals and other public institutions and facilities … …are in an abysmal state. We must create a policy that forces us to proactively manage our infrastructure. Strike a five year plan to fix the infrastructure correctly. Dedicate the resources required to meet the plan.

PC Presence
We Manitobans simply cannot afford another 4 years of an NDP government. In my view the PC party and Hugh McFadyen have been very quiet, almost too quiet. It is time to raise your profile. While the NDP as a government and a party are taking their lumps, Doer seems to be elevating his profile. This must be countered. To win this election you’ll need a strong, high profile campaign. You need a strategy that starts building your platform and highlighting your people. You need a campaign that the electorate will embrace.

While one might be reluctant to show your cards too soon, there is some merit to identifying your priorities first and telling Manitobans.

Some bullets for consideration…

• Take a page out of Stephan Harpers’ election campaign. Keep your platform simple, with major commitments that will make significant impact immediately.
• Work with the media. You’ll need as much positive (and free) press and you can get.
• Don’t blur NDP and PC policies and platforms…
• Let’s not accept second best. Strive for the best and don’t settle.
• Fund priorities appropriately. Don’t dilute your efforts by trying to please everyone. It would be best to fund one program correctly than two programs ineffectively.
• Don’t play electioneering games. Leave personal attacks to the NDP and Liberals. Take the high road, and tell the electorate that you will target priorities and policies only.

At least the moving companies will prosper...

Ouch. That's gonna leave a mark.

Not only did the NDP get re-elected, they kicked the bejesus outta the PCs. This means four more years of vanilla steady as she goes leadership, and teeny tiny incremental steps.

That breeze you are feeling is the rest of Canada speeding past Manitoba while the Manitoba government stands around twiddling their thumbs. Nero fiddles while Rome burns.

Thank God, Manitoba Hydro is safe.

What will be Gary Doer's legacy? A new hydro generating station? Perhaps a fatter, slower RHA administration? Maybe Crocus Part II? Presto, 30,000 more of Manitoba's best and brightest gone. Don't forget to write.

Doer will retire, before the next election is called. Who succeeds him?

Now is the time to plan for 2011. Hugh?

With the election only a day away...

Who's afraid of the status quo?

I don't believe that most Manitobans are satisfied with the status quo. Most Manitobans are, I believe: a) afraid of change (change is evil?) and 2) apathetic.

For fun, let's follow along the all-is-well-theme driven by the incumbent government provincial government.

Ask yourself: Who is truly satisfied with the RATE of improvement on the infrastructure in this province? Please keep in mind that the incumbent government has had 8 years to get it done and only pledged a $500+ million promise a scant few weeks prior to the election call.

Ask yourself: Who is satisfied with the current state of our health system? Remember that the incumbent government has had double the federal transfers since 1999 (fyi that means billions of dollars, yes, plural). They have had 8 years to fix this as well. The bureaucracy is nicely bloated though.

Ask yourself: Who is satisfied with real job creation in this province? The incumbent government has had 8 years to remove job and business killing taxes. Please do not confuse all the government jobs created (ie WRHA) nor the government sponsored construction jobs (ie Floodway). Our economy is fully half reliant upon the government.

What do you suppose will happen to all those jobs when the economy takes a breather?

Ask yourself: Who is satisfied with the current justice system in Manitoba? Only after 8 years has the incumbent government has promised more police and crown attorney's.

Four key elements: infrastructure, health, business and job creation, and justice. Why, after 8 years do we continue to talk so much about these issues?

A Terrible Waste Of Life

3 innocent people have died in Manitoba since 2000 due to thieves driving stolen vehicles. The most recent happened yesterday morning when a car was t-boned in a Winnipeg intersection by a couple of punks in a stolen van. A 39 year old woman died senselessly.

Much has been said by every politician at every level about lawlessness in this city. Little has come of it.

Putting more police on the streets will help. Since our Federal and Provincial masters can't seem to get their collective act together, the extra police officers can keep arresting the low-life scum. And rearrest them after they are released, and rearrest them again and again.

Demand Manitoba Justice prosecute to the fullest extent of the law. No more deals. No more conditional sentences. No more double time credit for time served. No more free passes when parole is violated.

Put the fear of God into the criminals. Build more jails. Minimize parole. Make it abundantly clear: if you do the crime you will do the time.

The Federal government introduced a get tough law and order platform last year. It was gutted by the opposition parties including Winnipeg's Anita Neville. Tell her what you think.

The Provincial opposition party promised several strong measures to fight crime during the current provincial election. The best the NDP could do was sneer and protest "it was not their fault". Tell Gary Doer what you think. You can also send a message with your vote.

Bleeding hearts will bray that rehabilitating our criminals should be our priority. I say that social experiment is an abysmal failure. You see, it is politically expedient to point fingers at someone else. No one has the courage to do the right thing. Put these punks behind bars and throw away the keys.

My God. When will we wake up? When will we begin thinking with reason and logic and leave politic-speak behind. Every Canadian politician is to blame for this senseless death.

No All Party Debate?

I was beginning to get a little bored with the 2007 Provincial election. I'm at the point where no one party has distinguished themselves. They all promise the moon and generally look alike. I had assumed one party would begin to stand out as e-day neared. Not so, so far.

I was looking forward to the all-party debates. Until one party pulled the rug out from under the voter's collective feet. It seems Gary Doer and the NDP are afraid of something. It's probably a good strategic move on their part. It is also cowardly and more than a little arrogant.

Doer has dodged the difficult questions for the entire election. I wanted to see how Doer responded to intelligent debate. Where he did not have the luxury of declining to comment or responding with a flippant remark.

Doer took that away from me, us.

Why this troubles me mostly is the apathy of my fellow Manitobans. With blinkers on, they seem satisfied with the status quo. A have-not province, with an economy too dependent upon big brother. With half our economy driven by government and government related make work projects.

We must move away from a socialist model if we want Winnipeg and Manitoba to really grow and prosper. When we are denied an opportunity to see the real issues debated, where we can challenge the status quo, we abandon the opportunity to see the tigers' real stripes.

Bring on the debates.

The Blurring of Manitoba Politics

We've heard so many promises from all three major Manitoba political parties. Each promises one variation of the same issues. Most disconcerting is, on the surface, one can hardly tell where the PC platform ends and the NDP platform begins.

Our beloved politicos have finally succeeded at blurring their policies into one analogous lump.

This is why a clear and concise vision would be useful. Indeed it should be demanded. It would show voters the underlying philosophies and policies of each party, not just the hot spots du jour.

Not one party has clearly defined their vision. I would like to see a clearly articulated PLAN that would help the average tax-payer understand where the plan starts and ends.

I'd like to see a PLAN that plainly states how the myriad promises will actually be accomplished.

Enough rhetoric. Show me the plan...