A great day, a sad day

On this great day an American who should have visited Canada over four years ago finally came to "five finger " waving. His visit brought out thousands of protesting demonstrators. They came from across the county, from the U.S. and elsewhere. They came to show that they did not agree with some of the things the visitor had done, was doing or was proposing to do. It is not everyday that the most powerful man in the world comes north to visit his neighbouring country. But he did and left letting the people of Canada know that he would do what he believed necessary to do to protect the American nation from terrorist activities. I think that he is prepared to take a war to other nations rather than accepting terrorist intrusions on American soil. George Bush can't be stopped in his efforts to protect America.

There can be no question that the President wanted to let the people of Canada know that America is a friend. He praised Canada as a democratic nation. His intentions include having Canada become a strong partner in the fight against terrorism. As well, he would like Canada as a nation to willingly support American efforts in the reconstruction of Iraq, Afghanistan and Haiti.

I believe he has mended fences, that relations with America will improve. Nevertheless, there will be ongoing discussions and debates relating to the future of the North America aerospace defence and the defence of the continent. Many Canadians are concerned about the "Star Wars" program and that problem will continue.

On this sad day, we heard about the death of a great Canadian, the author, Pierre Berton. Recently, he was a nominee to be the Greatest Canadian. To many, he was! During his life time he wrote 50 books, he was a writer for newspapers, magazines and appeared on TV and was a broadcaster. He will always be remembered as a great Canadian.

Friendship

Here it is 1:00AM and I sit at my keyboard to write a few words about friendship. Now why at this time am I doing so? First, I must say that I am sipping a liqueur style "Irish Cream" drink. It is most enjoyable and I think back to yesterday's blog where I wrote about alcoholic consumption and with moderation can lead to "good" health so now I can say that I am being "good" to myself and have some pleasure at this activity, both at the physical and psychological levels. Secondly, seldom do I not fall asleep quickly but tonight many thoughts were racing through my mind (if that is where my personal racing takes place)and most of these were memories of friends.

Friendship, by definition is a relationship of mutual affection and good will. I like that definition. I have made many friends through all of my life, friends in all the provinces and Canadian territories, friends living in most American states, friends in many of the countries of the world. Many of these friends were "work" friends. With these friends, work was accomplished to satisfy the needs of our employers. As friends we counted on one another to achieve the objectives of the organizations to which we belonged, and in this, we, I believe were all successful. For me, those "work" friends were there for a limited period of time; they became, in fact, colleagues.

The friendships that I have today have existed over time under circumstances, not to meet the needs of employers but, if anything, to meet the needs of the times. We share in experiences that are mutually beneficial, and most often improving the situations that we face, in making our world a better place in which to live.

For the first time, recently, I dedicated a book of poetry to friend. This gentleman is in truth a gentle man who has lived in part a most difficult life and has been a survivor. I am writing his biography and in doing so, I have developed a deep respect and a good understanding of a fellow human being. Through him I have learned much of Native life and "spiritual' practices. In that he has served as a guide and I have learned that he has been recognized and respected as a guide to many Natives through his life as an example and model to others, not through preaching but through simply being there. The book has the title, Standing Tall, the simple dedication reads: "To Dave McKenzie - father - guide - friend -."
That serves as an example of friendship. (a little more was written about Dave in the Nov. 22 blog, entitled My friends.

Yesterday afternoon eight members of the El Dorado Literary Group met at the the Sasquatch Poetry group as featured readers. I as a member of El Dorado had the opportunity to read three poems. Though I had read before the Sasquatch Group before, this was a special occasion where I shared with my friends the floor as special guests. Note that I said friends.

The El Dorado Group meets once a month all year and often has musicians who entertain as well as featured readers. All members also have the opportunity to read at all the gatherings. One special annual occasion is the Christmas dinner. The atmosphere at all times is hospitable and most friendly. Though I have been associated with many groups and organizations in the past, the El Dorado group stands out for its friendship and warmth. It is an outstanding literary and cultural group. Individuals who have an interest in Spanish and English poetry are most welcomed to participate.

Alcohol consumption

For countless centuries humans have consumed alcohol. It has brought pleasure to many and pain to some. It has brought health to many and destroyed the health of others. Today there are more scientific studies to confirm what many have believed. Their beliefs were based most frequently on personal observations and experience and the many stories that have been heard.

There has been over-drinking with many negative results among our youth. Some have become addicted, some have lost educational opportunities, some have brought on physical and mental health problems for themselves and much anxiety for others, some have died and/or brought on the destruction of property and the deaths of others. Most often that consumption of alcohol was for "happy times" but good times, sometimes, were not the end result.

Among some other individuals we have witnessed alcoholism and saw the negative affects on those individuals, their families and their friends.

Yet, there is the other side where modest levels of alcohol consumption have brought on relaxation, comfort, good fellowship and positive health benefits.

Alcohol, in its many forms is here to stay. Its consumption, as with all activities in life, remains the responsibility of each individual. Wise decisions require a good understanding of the positive and negative results of drinking alcohol.

Moderation for many life activities is important. Excesses are to be avoided. And, now we enter the Christmas season, a time of fellowship, of goodwill to all. Perhaps this is a time for individuals to decide on where they stand, what are their desires for their futures and how they might influence or help others to make equally wise decisions.


Here's to your health, your happiness and that of your loved ones, families and friends!

Four weeks to go

Ever since Remembrance Day, Nov.11, I have seen advertisements in stores, magazines, newspapers, TV, radio. Then the lights, Chrismas lights for stores, office buildings, homes, all bright in the night and oftentimes, during the day. Will all of these actions bring results in increased sales? No doubt. With more happiness and "peace on earth"? I doubt it. The costs for the extra electrical power far exceeds the benefits.

A few years ago, people were asked by governments to reduce hours of electrical usage for the extra Christmas lighting and in particular, the length of the season. I recall there was a reduction. Perhaps it is time to reconsider the "how" of Christmas lighting and more importantly the "why". I, for one, will use Christmas lighting at a minimum, and my good wishes to others will be done through words and smiles.

The day after...

After all the good food and fellowship we are all probably looking forward to a week-end of physical activity to control for the extra pounds that we might have gained. And, to think, Christmas and other festivities are ahead. Even before New Year's resolutions are to be made, perhaps we should make a pre-New Year's resolution to go easy on all the eating opportunities that will be there. It is far easier to keep the pounds off than to get them off, once they are there.

Some of the readers here will realize that I have spent a little extra time on affairs, American. Well, that is because so often my mind wanders across borders and the closest is, that of the U.S.-Canadian border. I have so many good memories of the U.S., of people, places and events.

Now, for a little Canadian story that starts in the U.S. goes into Canada and ends, for now in the U.S.

We, in Canada do not have bounty hunters, outside of those we see on film or on the TV. Recently, a body snatching event took place when two Ohio bounty hunters "kidnapped" a Canadian who had skipped out on a court hearing after having had a bail bond company cover the government deposit to keep him out of jail, pending a hearing. His no-show caused the bail bond company to be out thousands of dollars, leading to the bail enforcement agents tracing "their man" to Canada.

Now the "fun" begins. At the Niagara Falls crossing point, an American border official became suspicious of the three men with the result being the three ending up in a Buffalo, N.Y. jail. The bounty hunters are facing charges of forcible confinement and kidnapping. Also, they are being investigating for making false statements to a federal border agent. The Canadian languishes in jail and no doubt will not be granted bail. At least two lessons can be learned. The first, Canadians, do not mess with the American court system and second, U.S. bounty hunters stay out of Canada.

I wonder where the three men will spend Christmas; no doubt, in the U.S.

Thanksgiving Day

Today is a day of remembrance, a day of thanksgiving, for Americans. We, here in Canada had our Thanksgiving Day on October 11, a warm day, an Indian summer day, a day between Labor Day and Remembrance day, a holiday to enjoy the fine weather, friends, family and food.

I note that many of my thoughts recently have focused on the United States. With the American election behind us and the American President's upcoming visit to Canada, the strained relations of the past due to Canada's non-involvement in the War in Iraq, trade problems, and the U.S. proposed missile defence system. There will be American involvement in sharing Canada's water, oil, gas and hydo-electric power. All topics worthy of in-depth exploration.

On a simpler note a question to Americans: where did Babe Ruth his first home run? Boston, New York or what might your choice of location be? If you came up with the answer, in Canada you would be correct and the location was Toronto! He hit it right into Lake Ontario which most of you know holds the international border between Canada and the United States. The lake on which Canadians and Americans fought naval battles!

I failed to mention marijuana as a problem but I understand that the best marijuana available in the U.S. is called "B.C. gold" from the Province of British Columbia. Now we recently learned that Canadians have doubled their usage or smoking of marijuana over the past 10 years from 7.4% to 14% with 47% of 18 and 19 year olds having used marijuana during the last year. A new survey indicated that 57%of respondents saying that people caught with small amounts of marijuana for personal use should not be charged with an offence. Times are changing. And now, what about American standards? What would Americans say? Some Americans smoke pot and are subject to what some would call harsh laws for possession. American jails and prisons have many occupants there because of drug crimes and some of these relate to marijuana; at a high cost, both social and economic to the country and to people incarcerated and their relatives.

There are those who say that Bush won the election because millions of fundamentalist Christians voted as Republicans and provided Bush with 3.5 million votes in the popular count thus victories in Ohio and some other marginal states.
How would Americans vote on a question of legalizing the use of marijuana? It is believed it may take many years if ever for that to take place but in Canada it could take place in the near future. Our nations are quite different in many respects and those differences need to be respected.

Happy Thanksgiving and...

Happy Thanksgiving to all the American people and that includes all of my dear friends and George W. Bush, President of the United States. Yes, tomorrow is the big day when families get together to celebrate and to give thanks for all the good things that have come their ways. Missing, of course will be all the military personnel away on foreign assignments and more so all those whose lives have been taken in the name of the American people.

Canada is ahead of the U.S. in giving thanks for all the blessings received. Thanksgiving was celebrated on October 11. Canada has been ahead of the U.S. on other major occasions, such as entry into the two World Wars. It must be said that better late than never as the American entry into those wars brought an earlier and positive outcome.

One month from now we will celebrate Christmas and the season of "Peace on Earth".
But, all the prayers and good wishes will not stop the many wars and human suffering around our globe. How to achieve world peace is the question with which the best minds will grapple. Now, Mr. Bush has high on his political agenda a missile defence system. As far as Canadians are concerned, this system is highly controversial matter and will lead to much discussion and debate over the next year.

On November 30 and December 1, Mr. Bush will be in Canada for a visit to the nation's capital. It is hoped that Canadians will respect this visit as an extension of good will on the part of America. Canadians need to remember that President Bush is the duly elected leader of his country, the most powerful country in the world.

While it is true that fence mending is necessary, both countries need to have open and frank discussions and remember that compromises are often required. Canada has had an excellent trade balance with the U.S., yet there are outstanding problems relating to American importing beef from Canada due to the "mad cow disease" and the soft lumber duties that have had to be paid. In spite of the World Trade Organization declaring an American trade law as illegal, the U.S. has defied the WTO. The WTO doesn't have the power to compel the U.S. to comply with its decision but members can retaliate against the U.S. Canada may do so.

Americans have cast an envious eye on Canada's waters. With global warming, Americans have an ever-increasing need for water. Canada holds, in water, a most valuable resource. To American advantage there are oil and gas reserves that can be exported in greater volumes as well as hydro-electric power. Where do these matters leave both countries?

The U.S. was disappointed in Canada for not having joined in the War in Iraq as the British had done. At this time, Americans hope that Canada will continue its support for the war on terror and in the reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan. There can be no doubt that Canada will participate in NATO activities even though there can be danger to any forces that are committed to the reconstruction of Afghanistan. In this regard the Canadian government needs to deploy personnel with appropriate military and other equipment and resources to do an effective job at a tolerable risk level to the troops.

Good Evening World

Waiting for that all important telephone call or that letter, neither of which arrives leads to a sense of frustration. When will I ever learn? But, tomorrow is another day!

I did get that letter off to the editor. Not an important one but it is nice to be able to sort out one's thoughts for whatever value they might hold and commit them for a small world to see. One value that writings of that type, it permits me to get something "off my chest", much like getting someone off one's back.

I called the editor of the Ottawa Citizen to pass on a couple of ideas for future articles or columns. He wasn't there but his answering machine was. I have no difficulty leaving messages and in particular, with this editor for he has called back in the past.

We in the nations capital city (Ottawa, Canada) will host the President of the United States. Needless to say, it will lead to hardship for motorists and bus ride commuters as there will be gridlock with some streets and roads closed, all in the name of security. Yet, if anyone on earth needs top notch security, he does. President Bush has many enemies and some of these would like to see him dead. If ever there is an assassination, and we hope this will never be, let it not happen here in Canada. No matter what the cost and inconvenience to our people, let his trip be pleasant and problem free.

Today we recall the assassination of John F. Kennedy that took place 41 years ago. For those of us who can remember, that was a tragic day, a day that shook nations. Such a day, we wish would never want to be repeated. JFK was an inspiration to many! May his soul rest in peace.

Words from the letter to the editor of the Ottawa Citizen follow:

"The Far North has a great appeal to a number of Canadians. Some of us have traveled to such northern locations as Yellowknife and Whitehorse and even farther north to Inuvik, Cambridge Bay and Eqaluit, formerly known as Frobisher Bay. My favorite location is the more remote Tuktoyaktuc. Many of the northern travelers have found a new love for our country through visits to these and other locations.

With the creation of Nunavut, the old North West Territories have changed in size and that is one good reason for a name change. Yet, a better reason would be giving the newer "territory" a name that has greater significance to the People, a name that has meaning beyond a "location" name that had relevance when we thought of the land as "way up there". Today, with modern transportation that land "way up there" is accessible, though expensive to visit. It is our land, Canada; let the People name that old territory as they please.

The Prime Minister shows initiative in disclosing his prediction that the territories will become Provinces. We have history in the making. Some of us would say, the sooner the better!

Good Morning World

It is now 6:30 AM, the start of an "average" day, no doubt. But, as always, different from all other days of the past. This is what is so wonderful about living. The future activities of the day can't be predicted in that no matter how well planned they are, the accidents of life always intervene.

I sit at my computer with many thoughts going through my mind. I can't predict what I will write in the next sentence but the desire for a coffee is paramount so I will fill a cup of coffee that has just completed a percolation process. I wonder what percent of the total population of the world starts the day with a coffee and if not a coffee, what other beverage might be consumed.

Yes, for me that first cup of coffee, that first cup of "java" does me good. I have many memories of starting my day with coffee. My mind turns the many countries that I have had the good fortune to have visited. Memories of an espresso at a bistro in France, a cafe latte at a coffee bar in Canada, a cappacino in Cuba, an unexciting coffee on an over-night flight to Europe or a simple yet comforting coffee at an American early morning restaurant such as the famous (the name eludes me, and that has something to say about my memory,but I shall retrieve it, soon) in Los Angeles where the 10 cent mug of coffee is still available, which is remarkable, wonderful and almost unbelievable. This mug, that sits on my desk, filled with a Columbian brew does satisfy me. Not exciting, just plain comforting.

I have many coffee cups and mugs that I use. Most were given to me from friends and these most often were purchased by them while they visited cities and countries far removed from their own. Sometimes not, as is the case of the 1000 Island Canada mug that holds the brew that I am enjoying this morning. I have many memories of the St. Laurence River and some of the Thousand Islands. Memories sometimes easily refreshed by photographs that I have taken in the past. One that I hold in my hand was taken from the Thousand Island Bridge during the spring of 1953, over 50 years ago! It was like yesterday. Yes memories so easily preserved by the aid of photography. What impressed me at that time was the wake produced by boat as seen from a height.

My mind and memory turns to a few of the thousands of breakfasts that I have had. Some recollections are sharp as the one that I had last Sunday morning which was not truly a breakfast but a brunch to celebrate readings by three authors of their recently published books.
now, to think of it, why such fine memories of breakfasts such as the one looking out onto the Adriatic from a restaurant on the Island of Corfu, or from a mountain side restaurant on the Island of Haiti or at the Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City, Canada. All different yet, all memorable.

Memories, we all have them! Memories, for me bring back, most often pleasant thoughts of good times, with good friends, sharing time and space with, more often than not, good food and drink.
Some ten days have passed since I had a drink with my friend, Sergio, a film producer and director from Guatemala, in Canada to show his film "Discurso Conta El Olvido" in five cities of Ontario and Quebec. Sergio had a rum and coke and I recall that he requested a particular rum, his favorite, which was available. I had a Guiness beer. The ambiance, decor and mural decorations of the Cafe Jean Sebastien on the rue St. Jacques in Gatineau were to be appreciated. That Cafe is one that I would recommend to all visitors to Ottawa, Canada's capital as it is a five minute trip, across the Ottawa River. While there , Sergio described one of his next films which will be shot in Guatemala during next year's rainy season. We were in Gatineau to visit the Canadian Museum of Civilization. A remarkable institution not only for its holdings but for the magnificent architecture of the building by the famous Douglas Cardinal who was the prime architect and designer of the Smithsonian's Museum ot the American Indian, in Washington, D.C.

Among the many activities for the day will be a shopping expedition with my friend Valentina, an artistic designer. She is searching for fabrics for a new line of fashion designs that I believe will include chain mail. Today, she is a featured web journal writer among the millions who use Bravejournal. Her address there is: http://genghen.bravejournal.com That site will lead you to her two other journals and a main website. This speaks well of her creative abilities.

Another activity for me will be the writing of an article for the "World News". That e-pub (electronic publication) artile is untitles as I have no idea as of this moment as to its possible theme. Inspiration, if that is what it might be called, I await.

As well, a letter to the editor of the Ottawa Citizen must be written about Canada's three territories. Thoughts for this letter are streaming through my mind.

My friends

I like to believe I have many friends and they know who they are, at least, I hope that to be the case. I have been most fortunate in the knowledge that there are people to whom I can turn, whenever the need might arise. There have been times that some have come to my rescue and to all of them, let me say, again thank you. As well, I take this opportunity to say to all of my friends, if and when you need me, I am here for you.

Last Saturday I completed the sixth of a series of poetry chapbooks. For the first time, I made a dedication in it. The title was, Standing Tall. Dedicated to Dave McKenzie - father - guide - friend - . In poetic form were the following words:

standing tall
along his path
with clear vision
he walks tall

I wish that every person had a friend like Dave!

Kind words have been expressed by my buddy Steve from Cleveland. His words can be found in the "comments" section of this blog. Thanks, Steve.

It is good to hear from other friends like Anna who sent me an e-mail to tell me that she will be writing a special article for "World News". Anna is a CEO/Designer who is in a pre-production process and will complete the article soon. I and the many readers of the "News" are looking forward to your article. Thanks, Anna.

Another big thanks to my friend Chantal from France who has been a regular contributor to the "World News" through her articles, poetry and letters to the editor. The Article "Millions of bombs under our feet! appears in today's issue.

In closing, I would like to say that many of you must have enjoyed seeing the classic Grey Cup duel which was won by the Toronto Argonauts; score 27 to 6 against the B.C. Lions. The game's most outstanding player was non other than Damon Allen, a 41 year old grandfather. Wonderful! Congratulations to Damon and the Argonauts!

First Day

In order to set up this blog, I decided to write a few words. I welcome myself to this new "initiative" that will permit me to keep a record of happenings in my life. These words may be of little interest to others but they may have some value, in the long run, for the sake of "history".

Today, while unpacking some dishes that I had stored because of a move some 20 years ago, I read some of the news items. From the Ottawa Citizen, May 7, 1984: "Ottawa's 'journalism mafia' "The Van Dusen family makes mark on the Hill." Peter, one member of the family, at that time said that he "was probably the least likely to succeed in journalism" and recalled a high school counsellor who suggested he should take a technical education (program) after he took an aptitude test. Today, Peter is a highly succesful TV news anchor and has his own program "Prime Time Politics" on a national network. Another article under Local Neighborhoods, reported on the establishment of a Neighborhood Watch program, because of the high crime rate in a neighborhood, the Bayshore Community. Recently that community met with the Chief of Police and the local member for the Provincial Parliament concerning, "the high crime rate"; what else is new in our society. Two other items caught my eye: "Day hospital programs work wonders" and "Surgical remedy found for heavy snoring": those articles still have relevance for today. But, some changes were noted, for example the costs of health care products: 100 vitamine C, 500 miligrams for $1.59 and 100, 400 I.U. natural source vitamine E at $3.49. What surprised me most was that I recalled having read so much of what was in that paper. I guess my memory has not failed me as much as I thought!