But what about your pension? Your benefits?
When I left teaching, a lot of people asked me these questions. Here's a look at other people who have left the 9-5 life, because they realize that
your well-being is not tied to finances. It’s tied to relationships, it’s tied to skills it’s tied to creativity, resourcefulness and a sense of peace, intellectual challenge – these are the things that enable our well-being,” she says.
It doesn't seem that radical to me, but in an era where GDP rules it's an awkward thing to explain sometimes.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Friday, March 12, 2010
Real change for the real world
Ken Robinson is right, education is one of those topics that "goes deep with people." Public education is such a complicated undertaking and we have industrialized our schools much in the same way we have factories and farming. The end result of this is that students who are not in the middle of the bell curve are often stigmatized - and this takes place for both "gifted" kids and kids who "struggle."
In reality, I believe that all kids are intelligent and talented; the problem comes from a system that won't/can't accomodate different kinds of learning. Temple Grandin takes on the subject of Autistic learners in this great talk. Mentors, unite!
I would love to see some down-home, hands-on experiential learning here in New Brunswick. I think the best thing we can do for our young people is share our knowledge, skills and passion for our work. I wish we were better at that.
In reality, I believe that all kids are intelligent and talented; the problem comes from a system that won't/can't accomodate different kinds of learning. Temple Grandin takes on the subject of Autistic learners in this great talk. Mentors, unite!
I would love to see some down-home, hands-on experiential learning here in New Brunswick. I think the best thing we can do for our young people is share our knowledge, skills and passion for our work. I wish we were better at that.
Thursday, March 04, 2010
The theatre is the best social secretary of the law
So says David Hare, the English playwright who writes plays based on current events such as the invasion of Iraq and the financial crisis of 2008. Great thoughts on politics, economics, Shakespeare, and how power inevitably has its own way. To hear the podcast, click on "Writers and Company" and scroll down to David Hare.
Tuesday, March 02, 2010
There goes another piece of the neighbourhood
Well. I left town for one day and came home only to discover that Joel Rose had the Broadway School demolished. First, the facts:
1. JR has owned the school for years.
2. All he had to do was request a demo permit and there's nothing anyone could do. That's how this private property thing works.
3. There are currently no heritage by-laws in Woodstock to prevent this from happening.
As for hearsay, I head that JR had attempted to reconfigure the building as apartments, but thought that the cost of bringing the building up to code (we're talking elevators, electrical overhaul, h-vac etc.) was too much. Apparently he has 'no future plans' for the site - I'm guessing it was torn down so he wouldn't have to continue to pay property taxes. All of which is his business, except....
When the Wesylan church was torn down, it was the Weslyan congregation's business, and the same for all those other historic buildings Woodstock continues to lose. And people inevitably get upset but there is no way to channel the loss people experience when a beautiful and still structurally sound old building gets replaced by a newer, uglier chunk of vinyl. Our collective heritage is going the way of the dodo.
If we planned a forum about preserving historic buildings, would anybody come? This is something I have been thinking about for a long time. If we're serious as a community about our built heritage, we need to get off the couch (or in my case, offline!) and do something about it. And I don't just mean complain. I mean come up with workable real-world solutions to alleviate the problem.
If you're game, let me know. If not, see you on facebook.
1. JR has owned the school for years.
2. All he had to do was request a demo permit and there's nothing anyone could do. That's how this private property thing works.
3. There are currently no heritage by-laws in Woodstock to prevent this from happening.
As for hearsay, I head that JR had attempted to reconfigure the building as apartments, but thought that the cost of bringing the building up to code (we're talking elevators, electrical overhaul, h-vac etc.) was too much. Apparently he has 'no future plans' for the site - I'm guessing it was torn down so he wouldn't have to continue to pay property taxes. All of which is his business, except....
When the Wesylan church was torn down, it was the Weslyan congregation's business, and the same for all those other historic buildings Woodstock continues to lose. And people inevitably get upset but there is no way to channel the loss people experience when a beautiful and still structurally sound old building gets replaced by a newer, uglier chunk of vinyl. Our collective heritage is going the way of the dodo.
If we planned a forum about preserving historic buildings, would anybody come? This is something I have been thinking about for a long time. If we're serious as a community about our built heritage, we need to get off the couch (or in my case, offline!) and do something about it. And I don't just mean complain. I mean come up with workable real-world solutions to alleviate the problem.
If you're game, let me know. If not, see you on facebook.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
So Sue Me
I taught public school for three years without obtaining the B. Ed. degree. One of the courses the province made me take was school law, where I found out that teachers can be sued by anyone, at any time, for anything. Later in my short teaching career, the Grade 7 trip to the waterslides was cancelled for fear of lawsuits. Last summer, after I had resigned from public teaching, our non-profit organization got itself tangled up in zoning and building permit red tape.
Legalities are everywhere, and everyone is terrified of that next lawsuit, which seems always to be just around the corner. Here's one lawyer's proposal on how to restore the law to its rightful state of protecting common freedoms instead of hindering them.
Legalities are everywhere, and everyone is terrified of that next lawsuit, which seems always to be just around the corner. Here's one lawyer's proposal on how to restore the law to its rightful state of protecting common freedoms instead of hindering them.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Africville: a proper apology
Halifax Mayor Peter Kelly will apologize to former residents of Africville who were evicted and their homes bulldozed in the 1960's. A bridge was built where their community used to be.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
RiVA takes it to the streets....and youtube
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
One for all my homeboys in the woods
My grandfather shoed horses for men who worked in the woods and my dad worked in the woods. Working in the woods is the New Brunswick way.
So, here's a cute little video for all you NB girls who 'get' what she's singing about. I can't imagine the liability insurance this guy would need in today's day and age.
So, here's a cute little video for all you NB girls who 'get' what she's singing about. I can't imagine the liability insurance this guy would need in today's day and age.
Tuesday, February 09, 2010
Wednesday, February 03, 2010
The heavy hitters and I agree, for once.....
Great article on the themes coming out of the World Economic Forum meetings in Davos. While I am always concerned that too much power is concentrated in the hands of too few people, I think these observations are very astute. The trends discussed in this article will continue to be relevant, methinks.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Re-thinking the Hallmark Holiday
I'm not much for Valetines' Day - one year my lovely sister and I decided we were going to have the anti-Valentine's Day. So we drank some beer, ate Doritos and watched Sigourney Weaver shoot aliens in outer space. Fun times.
But on a more serious note, with Valentine's Day coming up I read this essay and starting thinking about women and how they get treated sometimes. Thankfully, misogyny and sexism have not been part of my everyday experiences. In fact, the phrase that we heard from our father most often growing up was "Why can't you fellas show a little initiative and help your mother out?" So, let's get those dishes done, shall we?
I was raised in a family with three girls, which meant that we didn't have any brothers around to fix things, lift heavy stuff or tell us how to behave. With two egalitarian parents, gender roles were not especially defined and now, as adults, my sisters and I haul amplifiers, load trailers with horses, finish drywall, cook, and take care of whatever else life demands.
But still, there was the time I applied for a mortgage and was told (by a woman, no less) that "that's not the way this normally works. Usually a man and a woman get married, and the woman has a baby, and then they buy a house." Not in my world, lady!
So, as Valentine's Day approaches, take a minute and think about the women in your life, what they have accomplished and how they are treated. Most people are caring and just, but there are still examples where women deserve more respect - and respect is the most powerful way to show your love for someone else, no brand name required.
But on a more serious note, with Valentine's Day coming up I read this essay and starting thinking about women and how they get treated sometimes. Thankfully, misogyny and sexism have not been part of my everyday experiences. In fact, the phrase that we heard from our father most often growing up was "Why can't you fellas show a little initiative and help your mother out?" So, let's get those dishes done, shall we?
I was raised in a family with three girls, which meant that we didn't have any brothers around to fix things, lift heavy stuff or tell us how to behave. With two egalitarian parents, gender roles were not especially defined and now, as adults, my sisters and I haul amplifiers, load trailers with horses, finish drywall, cook, and take care of whatever else life demands.
But still, there was the time I applied for a mortgage and was told (by a woman, no less) that "that's not the way this normally works. Usually a man and a woman get married, and the woman has a baby, and then they buy a house." Not in my world, lady!
So, as Valentine's Day approaches, take a minute and think about the women in your life, what they have accomplished and how they are treated. Most people are caring and just, but there are still examples where women deserve more respect - and respect is the most powerful way to show your love for someone else, no brand name required.
Monday, January 25, 2010
You said it
"No one can fix all of Haiti, everyone has to fix his own part." A look at how one street in Port-au-Prince is coping.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Work, babies, families, and salaries: changes on the horizon
Here's a great article from the New York Times about the changing trends in birthrates, employment and attitudes towards children in Europe and the U.S. Apparently most schools in Germany have been dismissing at noon ever since schooling became mandatory 250 years ago. Now that's beginning to change because women want to be working or have to be employed to make ends meet.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
A smart internet commentor?
I find the Globe and Mail's online comment boards particularly depressing. Rarely do I read anything other than lots of partisan hacks accusing each other of partisan-hackery. But this guy, who ever he is, is smart. Here's what mystery commentator-man says about NB Power Sale, the sequel (coming soon to a political theatre near you):
When it comes to Plan B, the devil will definitely be in the details. The political about-face on the ownership of the grid is a major victory for New Brunswickers who were justifiably concerned that the original deal would have compromised provincial sovreignty and deprived future governments of any control over rates in the long term.
When it comes to Plan B, the devil will definitely be in the details. The political about-face on the ownership of the grid is a major victory for New Brunswickers who were justifiably concerned that the original deal would have compromised provincial sovreignty and deprived future governments of any control over rates in the long term.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Lamrock: No Deal
It apppears the anger is starting to hit home. Shawn Graham's #2 man has said he won't support the deal in its current form. Apparently many other ministers and members of caucus feel this way too. Shawn Graham has a revolt on his hands: without the support of his caucus he's dead in the water (in the political sense).
Resign now, Mr. Graham. The people of NB and your colleagues have had enough. It's time to scrap this deal and move on to fixing a valuable Crown Corporation that belongs to the people of New Brunswick.
One final word of skepticism - Graham may pull a last-ditch attempt at 'revamping' the deal to try and save his hide. Whether we hear "my kingdom for a horse" or not, we need to keep an eye on a government whose only remaining fuel is desperation. NO means NO - not for sale.
Resign now, Mr. Graham. The people of NB and your colleagues have had enough. It's time to scrap this deal and move on to fixing a valuable Crown Corporation that belongs to the people of New Brunswick.
One final word of skepticism - Graham may pull a last-ditch attempt at 'revamping' the deal to try and save his hide. Whether we hear "my kingdom for a horse" or not, we need to keep an eye on a government whose only remaining fuel is desperation. NO means NO - not for sale.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Thursday, January 14, 2010
One Chimpanzee Does Not Make a Chimpanzee
I heard this line in a couple of days ago and it's rolling around in the back of my brain.
We are a social animal, and we need other people to make us who we are. Listen to this great podcast about "attachment," which Susan Johnson believes will be the most influential psychological theory of the new century. It stands opposed to behaviorism (ie. Pavlov's dogs) and Freudian psychoanalysis (ie. Oedipus et al).
As Johnson says early on, it's basically a theory of love, but the man who came up with it couldn't call it that because he would have been ridiculed. Teaching public school, we heard a lot of mumblings about "attachment disorders" - students who couldn't trust anyone, were oppositional, and didn't know how to interact with others in a positive way. The research backing attachment theory shows that babies who don't get proper emotional nurturing don't develop properly, either emotionally or intellectually.
So, now we've reached the point where science is beginning to put names and theories on our intuitions - that mothers and babies need lots of time together, that every human needs other emotional connections, whether 7 years old or 75. Until we abandon the ridiculous macho notion that we are better off doing everything for ourselves, we will continue to flounder as a group.
This ties into much of what I think about New Brunswickers - we're very geographically isolated from one another. And when you go to meetings (if you're lucky enough to be on a committee) it takes forever, because people aren't really there to conduct business. They're there to enjoy each other's company and to remember they're not alone in this world.
We are a social animal, and we need other people to make us who we are. Listen to this great podcast about "attachment," which Susan Johnson believes will be the most influential psychological theory of the new century. It stands opposed to behaviorism (ie. Pavlov's dogs) and Freudian psychoanalysis (ie. Oedipus et al).
As Johnson says early on, it's basically a theory of love, but the man who came up with it couldn't call it that because he would have been ridiculed. Teaching public school, we heard a lot of mumblings about "attachment disorders" - students who couldn't trust anyone, were oppositional, and didn't know how to interact with others in a positive way. The research backing attachment theory shows that babies who don't get proper emotional nurturing don't develop properly, either emotionally or intellectually.
So, now we've reached the point where science is beginning to put names and theories on our intuitions - that mothers and babies need lots of time together, that every human needs other emotional connections, whether 7 years old or 75. Until we abandon the ridiculous macho notion that we are better off doing everything for ourselves, we will continue to flounder as a group.
This ties into much of what I think about New Brunswickers - we're very geographically isolated from one another. And when you go to meetings (if you're lucky enough to be on a committee) it takes forever, because people aren't really there to conduct business. They're there to enjoy each other's company and to remember they're not alone in this world.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Fundamentalism, by any other name
We were in the Old Home Week parade last August, and what struck me most was the facial expressions of people watching the parade. They didn't show any emotion: no pleasure or displeasure, recognition, fear, amusement, nothing. Very strange, to be on display in public in front of people who seemed totally immune from any kind of reaction. Like you were the television and they were passively 'viewing' but not engaged.
Great article from a Yemeni man in the Globe and Mail - talking about his family's gradual transition from progressive values to Wahabi-style fundamentalism. The paragraph that struck me most:
Collectively they have become television addicts. Satellite TV, featuring hundreds of channels from the Arab world and beyond, has taken over from reading and socializing as the main form of entertainment. Why? Because among the many channels you can watch are the more Islamist ones (Hezbollah's Manar TV, for example) that promote a rigid version of the faith.
I often wonder about the worlds we close out - for example, how we don't gather in public anymore, we go to people's houses. There's a thriving business in Christian subculture sanitizing Hollywood movies- removing all swearing, nudity or violence to make them 'safe' for viewing. I think media - be it TV, the intermet, movies, plays a huge role in shaping our realities. And it's interesting to see that it's the same phenomenon in Yemen - except it's not American Idol, it's Manar TV.
Great article from a Yemeni man in the Globe and Mail - talking about his family's gradual transition from progressive values to Wahabi-style fundamentalism. The paragraph that struck me most:
Collectively they have become television addicts. Satellite TV, featuring hundreds of channels from the Arab world and beyond, has taken over from reading and socializing as the main form of entertainment. Why? Because among the many channels you can watch are the more Islamist ones (Hezbollah's Manar TV, for example) that promote a rigid version of the faith.
I often wonder about the worlds we close out - for example, how we don't gather in public anymore, we go to people's houses. There's a thriving business in Christian subculture sanitizing Hollywood movies- removing all swearing, nudity or violence to make them 'safe' for viewing. I think media - be it TV, the intermet, movies, plays a huge role in shaping our realities. And it's interesting to see that it's the same phenomenon in Yemen - except it's not American Idol, it's Manar TV.
Thursday, January 07, 2010
He oughta know.
So, the former 'top economist in Canada' thinks we've already reached peak oil, and are going back to local sooner rather than later. As in $7 per gallon gasoline. Great interview.
Saturday, January 02, 2010
Music and poverty - making the connection
In 1975 in Venezuela, a man named Jose Abreu began rehearsing an orchestra in a parking garage. Thirty years later his "Sistema" has changed the lives of tens of thousands of Venezuelans, and produced some of the finest classical musicians on the planet.
This fall, Moncton became the first "Sistema" pilot site in Canada.
This fall, Moncton became the first "Sistema" pilot site in Canada.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
VYC want YOU to audition
Happy Holidays from Valley Young Company!
We’re working hard to finalize our 2010 Season and plan to announce the full production schedule by the end of the week. In the mean time, we have scheduled auditions in Woodstock and will be running things a bit differently this year.
We’ll be holding auditions for our full 2010 company in one audition this year, to be held at 6:00 January 3 & 4, 2010 at the WHS theatre (you only need to attend one of the two audition dates). The season this year is going to consist of 3 - 4 shows (look for an email with all the production details in the next few days) and we’ll be auditioning all the shows at this time.
We’re working hard to finalize our 2010 Season and plan to announce the full production schedule by the end of the week. In the mean time, we have scheduled auditions in Woodstock and will be running things a bit differently this year.
We’ll be holding auditions for our full 2010 company in one audition this year, to be held at 6:00 January 3 & 4, 2010 at the WHS theatre (you only need to attend one of the two audition dates). The season this year is going to consist of 3 - 4 shows (look for an email with all the production details in the next few days) and we’ll be auditioning all the shows at this time.
Books: the dark side?
I remember yearning to read, and write. One of my best Christmas presents ever was a set of Disney books on tape (yeah, cassette tape, that's right) that chimed when it was time to turn the page. I read those things until the books fell apart, and got to know a lot of great fairy tales.
Now, humour me for a minute and watch this clip from "Good Will Hunting." They're talking about soul mates and Will is giving the list of authors he counts as soul mates. Then read this column by Rick Salutin and you really see where Robin Williams is coming from. Great thinking, great writing.
Too bad I'm not there in person for the dialogue. I think there's something to be said for oral traditions, and I think we have a strong one here. There's no doubt we have problems with literacy and I'm not saying that's not important; however, the flip side is we have people whose skill at storytelling needs to be heard, not read. Old school, campfire-style.
Now, humour me for a minute and watch this clip from "Good Will Hunting." They're talking about soul mates and Will is giving the list of authors he counts as soul mates. Then read this column by Rick Salutin and you really see where Robin Williams is coming from. Great thinking, great writing.
Too bad I'm not there in person for the dialogue. I think there's something to be said for oral traditions, and I think we have a strong one here. There's no doubt we have problems with literacy and I'm not saying that's not important; however, the flip side is we have people whose skill at storytelling needs to be heard, not read. Old school, campfire-style.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Bach, mein freude
I've been reading a lot about climate change and peak oil. One man was asked what gave him hope in the face of considering the bleak statistics. Apparently he paused for a minute and then replied: Bach.
Read about the first replica of a Bach-era organ on this side of the Atlantic. I've always said, if I could go back in time to one place, it would be mass at Bach's church. To see the master at the keyboard, improvising a fugue or conducting yet another (almost) brand-new cantata, and hear the mammoth machine sing at his behest, now you're talking!
Read about the first replica of a Bach-era organ on this side of the Atlantic. I've always said, if I could go back in time to one place, it would be mass at Bach's church. To see the master at the keyboard, improvising a fugue or conducting yet another (almost) brand-new cantata, and hear the mammoth machine sing at his behest, now you're talking!
Monday, December 14, 2009
A change is gonna come
These days I am thinking about the industrial way of living - working away from home, driving everywhere, being stressed out, angry and demoralized because of our schedules, eating food shipped across the globe, buying everything instead of making things, standardization, not having time for social relationships, the elevation of 'knowledge' over 'wisdom.' The list of ways industrialism impacts our lives is huge.
At the same time, I am realizing that we are in the twilight of the industrial age - with oil running low, climate change on the horizon, and many people wondering if this hyper consumer state is the 'it' we have been waiting for. We're told we're rich but we don't always feel rich. The human needs below the surface aren't satisfied by the latest greatest gadget.
At the same time, I am realizing that we are in the twilight of the industrial age - with oil running low, climate change on the horizon, and many people wondering if this hyper consumer state is the 'it' we have been waiting for. We're told we're rich but we don't always feel rich. The human needs below the surface aren't satisfied by the latest greatest gadget.
Friday, December 11, 2009
You had a choice, sir
This is one of the most famous lines in Canadian political history, when Brian Mulroney turned the tables on John Turner during an election debate.
Read this story of the Halifax NDP MP who is using her 'ten percenters' to advertise art exhibits in her home riding. Typically MP's use these pamphlets to attack the 'other guys' and they're usually Rush Limbaugh-type arguments.
It's about time someone used her power for good. We need more creative people like Meghan Leslie in the House of Commons. Good ideas don't need to cost money.
Read this story of the Halifax NDP MP who is using her 'ten percenters' to advertise art exhibits in her home riding. Typically MP's use these pamphlets to attack the 'other guys' and they're usually Rush Limbaugh-type arguments.
It's about time someone used her power for good. We need more creative people like Meghan Leslie in the House of Commons. Good ideas don't need to cost money.
Wednesday, December 09, 2009
And on the flip side
An anonymous donor gives free Turkey dinner and a concert to 1000 people in need. Good stories deserve to be re-told.
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
Information is power
Here's a great video from the courageous journalist Amy Goodman. If you haven't heard of her, take some time to check her out. She tells it like it is.
As you have probably gathered, I am watching this NB Power thing very closely. Most mornings I read the Telegraph Journal online and I am disgusted at their editorial pages lately. They seem to think most New Brunswickers are too dumb to 'see the truth' about this deal, and their condescension is nauseating. I find it sickening that they only seem to parrot what the Liberal PR firms are saying, without fact checking or giving print space to other viewpoints, such as the AIMS report.
Amy Goodman says the first credo of journalists should be 'follow the money.' The TJ certainly isn't doing that in this case and they are doing a disservice to all their readers. Super thumbs down to them.
As you have probably gathered, I am watching this NB Power thing very closely. Most mornings I read the Telegraph Journal online and I am disgusted at their editorial pages lately. They seem to think most New Brunswickers are too dumb to 'see the truth' about this deal, and their condescension is nauseating. I find it sickening that they only seem to parrot what the Liberal PR firms are saying, without fact checking or giving print space to other viewpoints, such as the AIMS report.
Amy Goodman says the first credo of journalists should be 'follow the money.' The TJ certainly isn't doing that in this case and they are doing a disservice to all their readers. Super thumbs down to them.
Friday, December 04, 2009
Weekend ahoy!
For those who truly do work for the weekend, two pieces about pirates, and one about thieves.
Enjoy ye olde nerdy choir cartoon below, and read this story about a young man in Ottawa who actually tried to start a pirate radio station. No doubt he would have called it W-R-R-R, get it?Ye blasted permits can dampen the souls of the saltiest of sea-faring men.
And, for those who enjoy a good political duel, the latest gauntlet is here. If you're not into long reports, fast forward to the last page and read the summary. Not to sound like a country song, but they get the transmission lines, we get the shaft.
Enjoy ye olde nerdy choir cartoon below, and read this story about a young man in Ottawa who actually tried to start a pirate radio station. No doubt he would have called it W-R-R-R, get it?Ye blasted permits can dampen the souls of the saltiest of sea-faring men.
And, for those who enjoy a good political duel, the latest gauntlet is here. If you're not into long reports, fast forward to the last page and read the summary. Not to sound like a country song, but they get the transmission lines, we get the shaft.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Don't be a turkey, slow down and eat
I know it's not Canadian Thanksgiving, but I sure do love food. Here's a great little piece from the NYT for you to enjoy. Interesting to note how well the methods of food production would fit in Carleton County...
And take some time to savour these photographs. Metaphorically, of course. Next year's Dooryard Festival is going to be unreal!
And take some time to savour these photographs. Metaphorically, of course. Next year's Dooryard Festival is going to be unreal!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
I've changed my mind
I am reading a fantastic new book called "Evolve Your Brain." If you are are interested in brain science, how we learn or how our thoughts affect our bodies, you should read this book too. In it, Dr. Dispenza talks about how we create our personalities through habitual thoughts, and the biochemistry and physiology of how that works.
Repeated thought patterns lead to habits, and those are hard to change if we don't acknowledge that we have created them, that they are not innate. I think this has a lot to do with the NB Power deal, for a couple of reasons:
1. NB'ers historically have been a "have-not" province and we are used to that. By selling NB Power, the government is only reactivating that network in our brains that we can't have anything important or profitable.
2. We do not see ourselves as "fighters" so the public is hesitant to speak up and oppose the deal.
As opposed to our francophone neighbours, who probably would have rioted by now if Hydro Quebec was being sold to Ontario Hydro....
In the book, Dispenza talks about how people say they've "changed their mind" about things. What that really means is their brain has been rewired to consider things differently than before. Your mind has changed, along with your opinion.
Interesting to think about how our thoughts create our realities, isn't it?
Repeated thought patterns lead to habits, and those are hard to change if we don't acknowledge that we have created them, that they are not innate. I think this has a lot to do with the NB Power deal, for a couple of reasons:
1. NB'ers historically have been a "have-not" province and we are used to that. By selling NB Power, the government is only reactivating that network in our brains that we can't have anything important or profitable.
2. We do not see ourselves as "fighters" so the public is hesitant to speak up and oppose the deal.
As opposed to our francophone neighbours, who probably would have rioted by now if Hydro Quebec was being sold to Ontario Hydro....
In the book, Dispenza talks about how people say they've "changed their mind" about things. What that really means is their brain has been rewired to consider things differently than before. Your mind has changed, along with your opinion.
Interesting to think about how our thoughts create our realities, isn't it?
Sunday, November 22, 2009
In defense of faith
I have a small but rotating list of personal heroes. Feels cheesy to use that word, since we're all supposed to be cynical now, and believe only in the power of money and not the power of people. But nevertheless, some people are inspiring, and not because they have the letters after their names to prove it.
I love hearing about people who have triumphed over adversity. There was a book about Martin Luther King Jr. in my grade 6 classroom and I must have read that book once a week all year. Of course, it was the closest thing to my desk, and I was usually done my work early, but it was worth reading again and again because of the courage of the characters.
David Adams Richards is on my list of 'heroes,' mostly because he is an excellent writer, but also because he didn't follow the conventional path in life. He has a new book out called "God Is" and here's a great interview talking about it (fast forward 3/4 of the way, he's at the end). His honesty cuts to the bone. He can see people for who they are, flaws and all, and yet still sees them with such dignity.
I think New Brunswickers have a salt and a sophistication to them that most people will never comprehend (you gotta live here to get it, right...). Talking about hell being his drinking habit and sitting at bars with murderers and realizing that as the start of his faith. Although he doesn't claim to have answers, he gives a very dignified defense of people's right to choose a faith tradition for the right reasons. These dark months are good times to think about this stuff.
I love hearing about people who have triumphed over adversity. There was a book about Martin Luther King Jr. in my grade 6 classroom and I must have read that book once a week all year. Of course, it was the closest thing to my desk, and I was usually done my work early, but it was worth reading again and again because of the courage of the characters.
David Adams Richards is on my list of 'heroes,' mostly because he is an excellent writer, but also because he didn't follow the conventional path in life. He has a new book out called "God Is" and here's a great interview talking about it (fast forward 3/4 of the way, he's at the end). His honesty cuts to the bone. He can see people for who they are, flaws and all, and yet still sees them with such dignity.
I think New Brunswickers have a salt and a sophistication to them that most people will never comprehend (you gotta live here to get it, right...). Talking about hell being his drinking habit and sitting at bars with murderers and realizing that as the start of his faith. Although he doesn't claim to have answers, he gives a very dignified defense of people's right to choose a faith tradition for the right reasons. These dark months are good times to think about this stuff.
Friday, November 20, 2009
The Joy
... is about enabling other people's stories to be heard, at the same time.
Enjoy this video. Then think about what it means for your life.
And one final word of advice, from Ricard Strauss - "never look at the trombones, it only encourages them."
Enjoy this video. Then think about what it means for your life.
And one final word of advice, from Ricard Strauss - "never look at the trombones, it only encourages them."
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
They're still dancing in Montreal
This comment was made yesterday by the leader of a Madawaska union local, outside the legislature.
It was an interesting event, fairly well-attended for a workday. New Brunwsickers are the most polite protesters ever. They don't want to yell because it's rude and they don't want to say mean things because it might hurt somebody's feelings. Which is good at the dinner table, but problematic when your own Premier is selling you down the river.
Apparently the protest could be heard inside the legislature, and everyone who spoke against the deal acknowledged that it's going to be a long battle. Take the time to email if you haven't already - Shawn Graham is going to pretent to consult people and let his PR spin team do the talking instead.
It was an interesting event, fairly well-attended for a workday. New Brunwsickers are the most polite protesters ever. They don't want to yell because it's rude and they don't want to say mean things because it might hurt somebody's feelings. Which is good at the dinner table, but problematic when your own Premier is selling you down the river.
Apparently the protest could be heard inside the legislature, and everyone who spoke against the deal acknowledged that it's going to be a long battle. Take the time to email if you haven't already - Shawn Graham is going to pretent to consult people and let his PR spin team do the talking instead.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Our democracy at work
So, the legislature resumes tomorrow. The Graham government will introduce its agenda and outside the 'people's house' citizens will protest the proposed sale of NB Power.
Shawn Graham has made it very clear that he intends to proceed with this deal without a mandate, contrary to his own campaign promises, and over the objections of the auditor general and the owners of NB Power, the people of New Brunswick.
I will be going to Fredericton to show my opposition to this deal. Many people are uncomfortable with protests but in this case, your silence will be interpreted as support for the deal. Failure to speak up, either via email or in person, will lend support to this backroom deal.
It is tempting to let apathy take over at times like this, but if you are oppose to this deal it is your responsibility to speak up now. Complaining after the fact will do nothing to absolve our inaction when it counted most. Get in touch with me if you'd like a drive to Fredericton, the rally starts at noon. If you can't or won't go, you can contact all the provincial MLA's at the same time using these addresses:
Liberal MLA's - leglibmla@gnb.ca PC MLA's - legpcmla@gnb.ca
Shawn Graham has made it very clear that he intends to proceed with this deal without a mandate, contrary to his own campaign promises, and over the objections of the auditor general and the owners of NB Power, the people of New Brunswick.
I will be going to Fredericton to show my opposition to this deal. Many people are uncomfortable with protests but in this case, your silence will be interpreted as support for the deal. Failure to speak up, either via email or in person, will lend support to this backroom deal.
It is tempting to let apathy take over at times like this, but if you are oppose to this deal it is your responsibility to speak up now. Complaining after the fact will do nothing to absolve our inaction when it counted most. Get in touch with me if you'd like a drive to Fredericton, the rally starts at noon. If you can't or won't go, you can contact all the provincial MLA's at the same time using these addresses:
Liberal MLA's - leglibmla@gnb.ca PC MLA's - legpcmla@gnb.ca
Sunday, November 08, 2009
From the air
People out fishing and working in the woods are being sprayed with pesticides. Companies have admitted there are ways to clear brush from tree plantations without using chemicals, but it costs so much money and labour.
Thursday, November 05, 2009
Hiding in the "Heritage Pool"
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
Now There's a Staff Room I'd like to visit!
Found this paragraph is Claude Levi-Strauss' obituary in the NYT this morning:
From 1927 to 1932, Claude obtained degrees in law and philosophy at the University of Paris, then taught in a local high school, the Lycée Janson de Sailly, where his fellow teachers included Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. He later became a professor of sociology at the French-influenced University of São Paulo in Brazil.
Must have been interesting to teach at that school....
From 1927 to 1932, Claude obtained degrees in law and philosophy at the University of Paris, then taught in a local high school, the Lycée Janson de Sailly, where his fellow teachers included Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. He later became a professor of sociology at the French-influenced University of São Paulo in Brazil.
Must have been interesting to teach at that school....
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Liberals hire Gulf War PR Firm to sell us the deal
Shawn Graham's government is preparing to spend 1 million dollars to convince us that we should let him sell NB Power out from underneath us. There are less than a million people in the province, so that tells you Graham knows that it will be an uphill battle.
Among the PR firms he's retained? Hill & Knowlton, best known for their misinformation campaign during the first Gulf War. Don't be surprised if fake citizen's groups promoting the benefits of this deal start to appear. Here's what they did during GWI:
Hill & Knowlton, then the world's largest PR firm, served as mastermind for the Kuwaiti campaign. Its activities alone would have constituted the largest foreign-funded campaign ever aimed at manipulating American public opinion. By law, the Foreign Agents Registration Act should have exposed this propaganda campaign to the American people, but the Justice Department chose not to enforce it. Nine days after Saddam's army marched into Kuwait, the Emir's government agreed to fund a contract under which Hill & Knowlton would represent "Citizens for a Free Kuwait," a classic PR front group designed to hide the real role of the Kuwaiti government and its collusion with the Bush administration. Over the next six months, the Kuwaiti government channeled $11.9 million dollars to Citizens for a Free Kuwait, whose only other funding totalled $17,861 from 78 individuals. Virtually all of CFK's budget - $10.8 million - went to Hill & Knowlton in the form of fees.
Just thought y'all should be aware of the tactics. One million dollars would put a lot of books on library shelves, provide legal aid to a lot of people, provide social assistance to others who need it. That money could also be used for a referendum or listening tour or meaningful public consultations, however you like it.
Among the PR firms he's retained? Hill & Knowlton, best known for their misinformation campaign during the first Gulf War. Don't be surprised if fake citizen's groups promoting the benefits of this deal start to appear. Here's what they did during GWI:
Hill & Knowlton, then the world's largest PR firm, served as mastermind for the Kuwaiti campaign. Its activities alone would have constituted the largest foreign-funded campaign ever aimed at manipulating American public opinion. By law, the Foreign Agents Registration Act should have exposed this propaganda campaign to the American people, but the Justice Department chose not to enforce it. Nine days after Saddam's army marched into Kuwait, the Emir's government agreed to fund a contract under which Hill & Knowlton would represent "Citizens for a Free Kuwait," a classic PR front group designed to hide the real role of the Kuwaiti government and its collusion with the Bush administration. Over the next six months, the Kuwaiti government channeled $11.9 million dollars to Citizens for a Free Kuwait, whose only other funding totalled $17,861 from 78 individuals. Virtually all of CFK's budget - $10.8 million - went to Hill & Knowlton in the form of fees.
Just thought y'all should be aware of the tactics. One million dollars would put a lot of books on library shelves, provide legal aid to a lot of people, provide social assistance to others who need it. That money could also be used for a referendum or listening tour or meaningful public consultations, however you like it.
Well, I've been doing my homework on this NB Power deal. I read the Wikipedia articles about Churchill Falls and Hydro Quebec, the Memo of Understanding (terms of the deal proposed), and this great commentary from the Gleaner.
My major misgivings:
1. NB'ers will pay to decomission plants Hydro Quebec doesn't want - 4.7 billion won't cover this.
2. The transmission lines will not be open to small producers in NB (ie. wind/tidal projects).
3. Hydro Quebec will not pay corporate taxes in NB.
4. We will have to pay for power consumed (in excess of the "Heritage Pool") after 5 years. This could be a lot of money, nobody knows right now.
5. Our residential rates will be frozen but not taken down to HQ current rates.
6. Does HQ intend to rebuild or decomission the Mactaquac dam in 15 years?
6b.) If they decomission it, what are they going to do with the reclaimed land along the banks of the Saint John River?
7. HQ gets to keep the carbon credits from hydro electricity generated in NB.
8. NB will pay Lepreau cost overruns the feds decide not to cover.
9. There are no guarantees or rate caps on our power after 5 years, and the deal allows for more energy "generation expenses" to raise our rates.
9b.)If HQ wants to expand their reach to Pensylvania or Maryland, will our plants/rates be paying for that?
10. If selling electricity to other jurisdictions is so profitable, why not do it ourselves and make a profit for the shareholders, the citizens of NB?
Frankly, I think an election needs to be called. This deal is a direct violation of the Shawn Graham's"Charter for Change" and New Brunswickers deserve a better democracy than poorly-negotiated backroom deals are going to give us. A rally is being held Nov. 17th at 11am, when the legislature resumes.
My major misgivings:
1. NB'ers will pay to decomission plants Hydro Quebec doesn't want - 4.7 billion won't cover this.
2. The transmission lines will not be open to small producers in NB (ie. wind/tidal projects).
3. Hydro Quebec will not pay corporate taxes in NB.
4. We will have to pay for power consumed (in excess of the "Heritage Pool") after 5 years. This could be a lot of money, nobody knows right now.
5. Our residential rates will be frozen but not taken down to HQ current rates.
6. Does HQ intend to rebuild or decomission the Mactaquac dam in 15 years?
6b.) If they decomission it, what are they going to do with the reclaimed land along the banks of the Saint John River?
7. HQ gets to keep the carbon credits from hydro electricity generated in NB.
8. NB will pay Lepreau cost overruns the feds decide not to cover.
9. There are no guarantees or rate caps on our power after 5 years, and the deal allows for more energy "generation expenses" to raise our rates.
9b.)If HQ wants to expand their reach to Pensylvania or Maryland, will our plants/rates be paying for that?
10. If selling electricity to other jurisdictions is so profitable, why not do it ourselves and make a profit for the shareholders, the citizens of NB?
Frankly, I think an election needs to be called. This deal is a direct violation of the Shawn Graham's"Charter for Change" and New Brunswickers deserve a better democracy than poorly-negotiated backroom deals are going to give us. A rally is being held Nov. 17th at 11am, when the legislature resumes.
Monday, November 02, 2009
All she wants to do is dance, dance, dance
This poem, written by the wonderful Don McKay, is dedicated to my hardworking band of RiVa buddies, you throw one heck of a Halloween partay. And also to Mr. Dancing Dracula, who ever he is. That guy can really cut a rug!
TO DANCELAND
No one is ever happier than when they're dancing
--Margaret McKay
South through bumper crops we are driving to Danceland, barley
oats, canola, wheat, thick as beaver pelt, but late, she said,
late, since June had been so cold already we were deep
in August and still mostly green so it was nip
and tuck with frost and somewhere between Nipawin and
Tisdale finally
I found the way to say, um, I can't dance
you know, I can't dance don't ask me
why I am driving like a fool to Danceland have flunked it
twenty-seven years ago in the kitchen where my mother,
bless her, tried to teach me while I passively resisted,
doing the jerk-step while she tried to slow, slow, quick quick
slow between the table and the fridge, her face fading
like someone trying to start a cranky Lawnboy
nevertheless
step by sidestep
we are driving down the grid, Swainson's hawks occurring every
thirty hydro poles, on average
to Danceland
where the dancefloor floats on rolled horsehair
and the farmers dance with their wives even though it is
not Chicago
where the mirror ball blesses everyone with flecks from
another, less rigorous dimension
where the Westeel granary dances with the weathervane,
the parent with the child, the John Deere with the mortgage
where you may glimpse the occasional coyote lopes and gopher hops
where the dark may become curious and curl one long arm
around us
as we pause for a moment, and I think about my mother and her
wishes in that kitchen, then
we feed ourselves to the world's most amiable animal,
in Danceland.
from Apparatus (1997)
TO DANCELAND
No one is ever happier than when they're dancing
--Margaret McKay
South through bumper crops we are driving to Danceland, barley
oats, canola, wheat, thick as beaver pelt, but late, she said,
late, since June had been so cold already we were deep
in August and still mostly green so it was nip
and tuck with frost and somewhere between Nipawin and
Tisdale finally
I found the way to say, um, I can't dance
you know, I can't dance don't ask me
why I am driving like a fool to Danceland have flunked it
twenty-seven years ago in the kitchen where my mother,
bless her, tried to teach me while I passively resisted,
doing the jerk-step while she tried to slow, slow, quick quick
slow between the table and the fridge, her face fading
like someone trying to start a cranky Lawnboy
nevertheless
step by sidestep
we are driving down the grid, Swainson's hawks occurring every
thirty hydro poles, on average
to Danceland
where the dancefloor floats on rolled horsehair
and the farmers dance with their wives even though it is
not Chicago
where the mirror ball blesses everyone with flecks from
another, less rigorous dimension
where the Westeel granary dances with the weathervane,
the parent with the child, the John Deere with the mortgage
where you may glimpse the occasional coyote lopes and gopher hops
where the dark may become curious and curl one long arm
around us
as we pause for a moment, and I think about my mother and her
wishes in that kitchen, then
we feed ourselves to the world's most amiable animal,
in Danceland.
from Apparatus (1997)
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Uncle Sam says: we want your power
A little background from the Globe and Mail on why Hydro Quebec wants to buy NB Power:
This comes as U.S. officials pressure eastern Canadian utilities to merge, a move that would make it easier to co-ordinate production and transmission of electricity to the eastern United States. Given that the region's most important source of electricity is Hydro-Québec, U.S. officials are eager to see it take over its smaller rivals in the Maritimes, the government official said.
Full analysis here. This is a very, very bad move, selling public assets. Contact your MLA and the Premier and tell them they don't have the authority to sell NB Power without a public debate. All it is going to take to stop this deal is for a couple of Liberal MLA's to cross the floor and trigger an election. The consequences are going to be enormous, and shady backroom deals are never in the interest of regular people - our residential rates are not going to decline under these terms of sale.
This comes as U.S. officials pressure eastern Canadian utilities to merge, a move that would make it easier to co-ordinate production and transmission of electricity to the eastern United States. Given that the region's most important source of electricity is Hydro-Québec, U.S. officials are eager to see it take over its smaller rivals in the Maritimes, the government official said.
Full analysis here. This is a very, very bad move, selling public assets. Contact your MLA and the Premier and tell them they don't have the authority to sell NB Power without a public debate. All it is going to take to stop this deal is for a couple of Liberal MLA's to cross the floor and trigger an election. The consequences are going to be enormous, and shady backroom deals are never in the interest of regular people - our residential rates are not going to decline under these terms of sale.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Let the waiting begin
Packed house for the meeting last night - ten times more than I've ever seen. The proposal for rezoning was put on hold in order for PAC and Council to review the new drawings submitted by Mr. Cronkite. If Council proceeds with the next step and public hearing, they will likely take place in early December. I'll keep you updated.
In other news, Kerry O'Toole won a national sculpture contest at St. Andrew's Kingsbrae Gardens. His flying geese will be installed permanently in the gardens. Congratulations Kerry! Kerry had originally offered this sculpture to the Town of Woodstock for placement downtown but they declined to purchase it.
In other news, Kerry O'Toole won a national sculpture contest at St. Andrew's Kingsbrae Gardens. His flying geese will be installed permanently in the gardens. Congratulations Kerry! Kerry had originally offered this sculpture to the Town of Woodstock for placement downtown but they declined to purchase it.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Speak up for the Weslyan church
Boy, there's a lot going down in the downtown.
The Weslyan church will be torn down and replaced with another vinyl apartment building unless Woodstock Town Council votes "no" on the rezoning next Monday night. October 27th will be the first of three readings necessary to demolish the historic church and establish apartments. Neighbourhood residents are opposed to the demolition.
I will be going to council and I encourage YOU to make time and go, if you're concerned about the preservation of historic buildings in "New Brunswick's First Town." We need a vision for our historic downtown, and vinyl isn't it! Sorry to be so blunt but if this keeps up we are going to be another drive-through town in the drive through province.
Make your municipal democracy work and get out there!
The Weslyan church will be torn down and replaced with another vinyl apartment building unless Woodstock Town Council votes "no" on the rezoning next Monday night. October 27th will be the first of three readings necessary to demolish the historic church and establish apartments. Neighbourhood residents are opposed to the demolition.
I will be going to council and I encourage YOU to make time and go, if you're concerned about the preservation of historic buildings in "New Brunswick's First Town." We need a vision for our historic downtown, and vinyl isn't it! Sorry to be so blunt but if this keeps up we are going to be another drive-through town in the drive through province.
Make your municipal democracy work and get out there!
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Ahoy, me Canadian pirates
Turns out we host 4 of 5 of the world's best/worst file sharing websites. This is a complicated situation, but three things are for sure:
1. The downloading genie will never go back into the copyright box.
2. Internet file-sharing has changed the role of information and culture in our society.
3. Our "intellectual property" laws and ways of thinking about information sorely need updating.
Over and out.
1. The downloading genie will never go back into the copyright box.
2. Internet file-sharing has changed the role of information and culture in our society.
3. Our "intellectual property" laws and ways of thinking about information sorely need updating.
Over and out.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
We're gonna kick it up a notch
So, RiVA is having its first ever membership drive. At the oh-so-obvious risk of appearing recklessly partisan, here's why you should go to Fusion Thursday night at 8pm and buy a membership (or several):
1. Carleton County needs an arts centre and that takes money.
2. It will get you into the Halloween party for FREE, and your name on our VIP list.
3. The more members we have, the more clout we have locally in lobbying for cool projects.
4. You will have a chance to make a cool mask and hear some good tunes.
5. You never know what might happen. Really.
Your support means a lot. We have spent the past six months working, sweating, dreaming, and fighting for this to happen. The parking situation at 702 is coming to a head and whatever happens, we'd love to know you're on our side. Cheers!
1. Carleton County needs an arts centre and that takes money.
2. It will get you into the Halloween party for FREE, and your name on our VIP list.
3. The more members we have, the more clout we have locally in lobbying for cool projects.
4. You will have a chance to make a cool mask and hear some good tunes.
5. You never know what might happen. Really.
Your support means a lot. We have spent the past six months working, sweating, dreaming, and fighting for this to happen. The parking situation at 702 is coming to a head and whatever happens, we'd love to know you're on our side. Cheers!
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Support the library book rate
The library book rate is a partnership between Canada Post and libraries. It helps reduce the cost of sending books and information across our sprawling country. It will expire at the end of 2009 unless the public demands the government support it.
Do your part, take 15 seconds to email Harper here. Happy reading!
Do your part, take 15 seconds to email Harper here. Happy reading!
Monday, October 12, 2009
Two nightcaps on writing
So, a reporter's paper shuts down, throwing him out of work. His response: buy his own paper, get back to work, double time.
Also, here's an excerpt from an interview with Toni Morrison. She was asked where her ideas come from and how she overcomes the difficulty of the blank page.
TM: It's that being open - not scratching for it, not digging for it, not constructing something but being open to the situation and trusting that what you don't know will be available to you. It's bigger than your overt consciousnessor your intelligence or even your gifts; it is out there somewhere and you have to let it in.
PH: And does being open in that way to your writing spill over into other areas of your life?
TM: I feel more friendly when I am writing, nicer to people, much more generous, also wiser. I am full of a kind of tenderness towards people and all they have to hide, all they have to construct. Not pity, not sympathy, just tenderness. Knowing that the job of being human is so hard, and it is the only job there is left - though we keep on pretending otherwise. If I am in that good place, and I run into someone I dislike, I feel more human and they seem more human.
PH: Connected.
TM:Precisely. I keep telling everyone whenever I get a chance that it took 60 million years to make a human eye. And before that, it was just a little cell at the bottom of the ocean that was sensitive to light. Just think of how complicated and truly magnificent a human being is. When you think of all we are capable of - being able to love each other, and being willing to do something good in the world for no recognition . . . I am not saying there are not people who want to step over each other, who want to maim and kill, but that is a perversion of the beautiful things human beings are made for.
There are all sorts of ways people try to stay connected, try not to live in hate. Religion may be one of them, but for me the central thing is the writing. The art itself. Putting my intelligence and my humanity to the best possible use, and I get better because I am doing it. The writing teaches me that I can't just reach some little plateau and say that's it, this is the place. It is always a search.
PH: And that's the good news.
TM: That is the good news.
Also, here's an excerpt from an interview with Toni Morrison. She was asked where her ideas come from and how she overcomes the difficulty of the blank page.
TM: It's that being open - not scratching for it, not digging for it, not constructing something but being open to the situation and trusting that what you don't know will be available to you. It's bigger than your overt consciousnessor your intelligence or even your gifts; it is out there somewhere and you have to let it in.
PH: And does being open in that way to your writing spill over into other areas of your life?
TM: I feel more friendly when I am writing, nicer to people, much more generous, also wiser. I am full of a kind of tenderness towards people and all they have to hide, all they have to construct. Not pity, not sympathy, just tenderness. Knowing that the job of being human is so hard, and it is the only job there is left - though we keep on pretending otherwise. If I am in that good place, and I run into someone I dislike, I feel more human and they seem more human.
PH: Connected.
TM:Precisely. I keep telling everyone whenever I get a chance that it took 60 million years to make a human eye. And before that, it was just a little cell at the bottom of the ocean that was sensitive to light. Just think of how complicated and truly magnificent a human being is. When you think of all we are capable of - being able to love each other, and being willing to do something good in the world for no recognition . . . I am not saying there are not people who want to step over each other, who want to maim and kill, but that is a perversion of the beautiful things human beings are made for.
There are all sorts of ways people try to stay connected, try not to live in hate. Religion may be one of them, but for me the central thing is the writing. The art itself. Putting my intelligence and my humanity to the best possible use, and I get better because I am doing it. The writing teaches me that I can't just reach some little plateau and say that's it, this is the place. It is always a search.
PH: And that's the good news.
TM: That is the good news.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
The Good Place or No Place
Before you get finished your turkey day, or your Tofurkey day, take 15 minutes to listen to this excellent talk about food and how it should be central to our thinking. My life in large part revolves around food, so of course I liked this talk, but I think when we get back in touch with real food and real human company, we will be on the road to recovering from this industrial hangover.
Bon appetit!
Bon appetit!
Friday, October 09, 2009
Local Links
Lee and Yolande Clark have a beautiful new pottery website! Read about their process and see the amazingly unique work they produce. What a great gift for that person who has everything . . . hint, hint.
Thursday, October 08, 2009
The lady's got brains
This year, four Nobel Prizes were awarded to women. In the history of the Nobel Prize, only 35 have gone to females, including this year. This post is dedicated to my grandmother's father, who encouraged her to get an education and become a teacher, despite the objections of her mother and brothers. My grandmother's education had a tremendous influence on me, so it would be fair to say I owe her father a debt of gratitude as well.
Educate yourself about these hard-working thinkers and their accomplishments. The human brain is a pretty miraculous device.
Educate yourself about these hard-working thinkers and their accomplishments. The human brain is a pretty miraculous device.
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
Stranger than fiction
Bizarre claims from this article in the New York Times:
Researchers have long known that people cling to their personal biases more tightly when feeling threatened. After thinking about their own inevitable death, they become more patriotic, more religious and less tolerant of outsiders, studies find. When insulted, they profess more loyalty to friends — and when told they’ve done poorly on a trivia test, they even identify more strongly with their school’s winning teams.
The theory is exposure to bizarre and unexpected things could actually stimulate creativity. Tim Burton would be a prime example, I suppose.
Also: James P. Johnson gets his propers, finally, after 50 years in an obscure grave in Queens.
Researchers have long known that people cling to their personal biases more tightly when feeling threatened. After thinking about their own inevitable death, they become more patriotic, more religious and less tolerant of outsiders, studies find. When insulted, they profess more loyalty to friends — and when told they’ve done poorly on a trivia test, they even identify more strongly with their school’s winning teams.
The theory is exposure to bizarre and unexpected things could actually stimulate creativity. Tim Burton would be a prime example, I suppose.
Also: James P. Johnson gets his propers, finally, after 50 years in an obscure grave in Queens.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Your two cents worth
That pun was for you, KD. The NB government is asking for your "pre-budget input." Click on the link below and say which things you think should be cut or enhanced.
For my part, I said they need to cut executive bonuses at NB Power, enhance legal aid and education, and look into the "creative economy."
Just some thoughts . . . take a minute and pretend you're running this province - where would you spend it?
For my part, I said they need to cut executive bonuses at NB Power, enhance legal aid and education, and look into the "creative economy."
Just some thoughts . . . take a minute and pretend you're running this province - where would you spend it?
Friday, September 25, 2009
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Being gay in middle school
I knew when the girl's hockey team won the NB Human Rights award for their anti-homophobia campaign that school culture was changing to accomodate GLBT youth. But I didn't know how much....
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Maritime Jazz Mash-up
So, a weekend of mind-busting great musicians, just the way I like it. I've posted a bunch of links to highlight the great stuff I heard at Harvest. After all the work we put into organizing Dooryard, it was a real treat to park myself in a chair and soak up the music.
Although jazz is increasingly removed from the mainstream, listeners are as passionate as ever about the music, and my overall feeling about this weekend's performances was one of gratitude. Improvising musicians have a special place in my heart. They spend years and years and hours upon hours learning to compose music spontaneously - how's that for a paradox?
Every time a politician cut arts funding, they should be sent to see this guy play. I have never seen that much joy in concert. Period. And his band was killing, it was like watching a sailboat turn on a dime. No set list, no predictable arrangements, no cliches.
At the other end of the jazz spectrum, the East Delta Trio played mainly improvised music, with tabla in place of a drumset. Three very talented musicians playing complex but heartfelt sounds. A special Carleton County "yessir" is due to Evan Shaw, raised in Hartland, now improvising in Toronto.
Over the past eight years I've seen Joel Miller perform with several different groups and his compositions are always engaging - he uses a fairly traditional jazz framework, but the melodies are interesting and the playing is fiery.
More great music from Easley, Stevenson and Arsenault, and lots of random one liners from this fine drummer. Because we all know jazz is about guilt. And money. And if you don't get the joke, that means you'll have to check it out in person next year. These musicians are worth every cent and more.
Although jazz is increasingly removed from the mainstream, listeners are as passionate as ever about the music, and my overall feeling about this weekend's performances was one of gratitude. Improvising musicians have a special place in my heart. They spend years and years and hours upon hours learning to compose music spontaneously - how's that for a paradox?
Every time a politician cut arts funding, they should be sent to see this guy play. I have never seen that much joy in concert. Period. And his band was killing, it was like watching a sailboat turn on a dime. No set list, no predictable arrangements, no cliches.
At the other end of the jazz spectrum, the East Delta Trio played mainly improvised music, with tabla in place of a drumset. Three very talented musicians playing complex but heartfelt sounds. A special Carleton County "yessir" is due to Evan Shaw, raised in Hartland, now improvising in Toronto.
Over the past eight years I've seen Joel Miller perform with several different groups and his compositions are always engaging - he uses a fairly traditional jazz framework, but the melodies are interesting and the playing is fiery.
More great music from Easley, Stevenson and Arsenault, and lots of random one liners from this fine drummer. Because we all know jazz is about guilt. And money. And if you don't get the joke, that means you'll have to check it out in person next year. These musicians are worth every cent and more.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
To those who say change is impossible
Ten years ago I heard homophobic comments all the time at WHS. Today the girl's hockey team is the recipient of an NB Human Rights Award for defending their gay teammates. A great example of how small town culture changes so slowly that some people don't even notice. To me, it's a wonderful example of a big change that's happened in a relatively short time. Well done, gals!
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Yasmina Khadra
Months ago, I read a commentary by the bibliophile Alberto Manguel, who suggested that many of the world's best author's are writing in languages other than English. Manguel gave the 2007 Massey Lectures entitled "The City of Words," a series which I listened to in podcast form. After my brain finished exploding with his ideas, I bought a copy and read it many times over. So, when I read that Manguel thought English readers overlook non-English novels to their detriment, I started keeping my eyes open.
Enter Yasmina Khadra, who is actually a former Algerian army officer named Mohammed Moulassehoul. He now lives in France and has published several novels in French. His novel "The Attack" grabbed me by the throat in my lovely local independent bookstore.
I know lots of people whose opinions are set when it comes to suicide bombers, religious fundamentalism and the state of Israel vs. the Palestinian diaspora. Reading this book took away the stale political arguments and brought to life the human complexities of the situation, the suffering and blindness on both sides. Very, very interesting read, and I suggest anyone who thinks they know "how the feel about that situation" pick up "The Attack" and then reconsider.
Here's what Khadra has to say about the Arab world:
It's a pity that you do not have access to our culture. The Arab world is not just a postcard with dunes and caravans, nor is it only terrorist attacks. The Arab world is more generous and more inspired than yours. Do you know that El Moutannabi is humanity's greatest poet since the dawn of time? … It's a pity that you do not know anything of it. I was initially inspired by mine. I have had the chance to get maximum benefit from a double culture, Western and Eastern, without ever losing sight of where I come from.
To close, verses from El Moutannabi:
Every day you load up fresh
and journey to glory, there to dwell
And our wont is comely patience
were it with anything but your absence that we were tried
Every life you don’t grace is death
every sun that you are not is darkness.
(Arberry, Poems 5)
Bon appetit!
Enter Yasmina Khadra, who is actually a former Algerian army officer named Mohammed Moulassehoul. He now lives in France and has published several novels in French. His novel "The Attack" grabbed me by the throat in my lovely local independent bookstore.
I know lots of people whose opinions are set when it comes to suicide bombers, religious fundamentalism and the state of Israel vs. the Palestinian diaspora. Reading this book took away the stale political arguments and brought to life the human complexities of the situation, the suffering and blindness on both sides. Very, very interesting read, and I suggest anyone who thinks they know "how the feel about that situation" pick up "The Attack" and then reconsider.
Here's what Khadra has to say about the Arab world:
It's a pity that you do not have access to our culture. The Arab world is not just a postcard with dunes and caravans, nor is it only terrorist attacks. The Arab world is more generous and more inspired than yours. Do you know that El Moutannabi is humanity's greatest poet since the dawn of time? … It's a pity that you do not know anything of it. I was initially inspired by mine. I have had the chance to get maximum benefit from a double culture, Western and Eastern, without ever losing sight of where I come from.
To close, verses from El Moutannabi:
Every day you load up fresh
and journey to glory, there to dwell
And our wont is comely patience
were it with anything but your absence that we were tried
Every life you don’t grace is death
every sun that you are not is darkness.
(Arberry, Poems 5)
Bon appetit!
Thursday, September 03, 2009
What's in a name?
You might recall that a couple of years ago the Harper government eliminated "gender equality" from the court challenges program. Now it appears they have taken the same tack on the international level, reversing efforts by previous Canadian governments.
"Canada worked hard and long to include gender-based violence in international documents, in the world of children and armed conflict where Canada is a leader, we've worked very hard to include gender-based violence as a serious violation. So removing that is a serious step backward and I would argue that the Canadian public would not agree with that," said Kathy Vandergrift, chair of the Canadian Coalition for the Rights of Children.
According to this article, the Harper government has also quietly axed "child soldiers" and "international humanitarian law" from our statements on human rights abuses, including sexual abuse in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where rape is a routine political weapon. Details are here.
I think this is a major step backward for Canada, and I don't think many Canadians would agree with the government's attempt to sidestep justice for such vulnerable people. This is not how we should be treating people suffering in other countries.
"Canada worked hard and long to include gender-based violence in international documents, in the world of children and armed conflict where Canada is a leader, we've worked very hard to include gender-based violence as a serious violation. So removing that is a serious step backward and I would argue that the Canadian public would not agree with that," said Kathy Vandergrift, chair of the Canadian Coalition for the Rights of Children.
According to this article, the Harper government has also quietly axed "child soldiers" and "international humanitarian law" from our statements on human rights abuses, including sexual abuse in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where rape is a routine political weapon. Details are here.
I think this is a major step backward for Canada, and I don't think many Canadians would agree with the government's attempt to sidestep justice for such vulnerable people. This is not how we should be treating people suffering in other countries.
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Saturday, August 22, 2009
51 percent of the population; 1 percent of the landowners
My apologies for getting so serious so soon after the celebrations of The Trials of Benny Swim and the Dooryard festival. But the fact remains that there's still a lot of work to be done in this crazy world of ours. Here is an excerpt from a long article from the New York Times dealing with women's global inequality. It's part of a new book which we should all take to heart, given that women create us, nurture us and inspire us on so many levels.
Bill Gates recalls once being invited to speak in Saudi Arabia and finding himself facing a segregated audience. Four-fifths of the listeners were men, on the left. The remaining one-fifth were women, all covered in black cloaks and veils, on the right. A partition separated the two groups. Toward the end, in the question-and-answer session, a member of the audience noted that Saudi Arabia aimed to be one of the Top 10 countries in the world in technology by 2010 and asked if that was realistic. “Well, if you’re not fully utilizing half the talent in the country,” Gates said, “you’re not going to get too close to the Top 10.” The small group on the right erupted in wild cheering.
Read the rest here, then sit still and think about it.
Bill Gates recalls once being invited to speak in Saudi Arabia and finding himself facing a segregated audience. Four-fifths of the listeners were men, on the left. The remaining one-fifth were women, all covered in black cloaks and veils, on the right. A partition separated the two groups. Toward the end, in the question-and-answer session, a member of the audience noted that Saudi Arabia aimed to be one of the Top 10 countries in the world in technology by 2010 and asked if that was realistic. “Well, if you’re not fully utilizing half the talent in the country,” Gates said, “you’re not going to get too close to the Top 10.” The small group on the right erupted in wild cheering.
Read the rest here, then sit still and think about it.
Saturday, August 08, 2009
Unfiltered Smoke
Hey folks, just wanted to remind you that Jason's new creative hub is up online: www.unfilteredsmoke.com. He's looking for readers and contributors, check it out!
Best of luck, Jason for your launch at Dooryard next Friday!
Best of luck, Jason for your launch at Dooryard next Friday!
Friday, August 07, 2009
Monday, August 03, 2009
10 Things About Dooryard
Here's what you don't want to miss next week! Schedule is available at www.rivervalleyarts.net.dooryard
10. Tons of free afternoon showcases.
9. Random Saturday artists and Vendors (everyone is invited).
8. Saturday afternoon Beer & Wine Tasting (if that's your bag, baby). Get 5 beer and 5 wine samples for $10.
7. Arts Workshops for young and young at heart.
6. A chance to paint your way across the train bridge.
5. Live outdoor concerts on Friday and Saturday evening.
4. Writers telling tales out of school at Fusion.
3. The Charlie Bomb Marathon on Friday.
2. A classy cocktail party with yummy food on Wednesday.
1. The Trials of Benny Swim. Only the most infamous story in Carleton County
10. Tons of free afternoon showcases.
9. Random Saturday artists and Vendors (everyone is invited).
8. Saturday afternoon Beer & Wine Tasting (if that's your bag, baby). Get 5 beer and 5 wine samples for $10.
7. Arts Workshops for young and young at heart.
6. A chance to paint your way across the train bridge.
5. Live outdoor concerts on Friday and Saturday evening.
4. Writers telling tales out of school at Fusion.
3. The Charlie Bomb Marathon on Friday.
2. A classy cocktail party with yummy food on Wednesday.
1. The Trials of Benny Swim. Only the most infamous story in Carleton County
Friday, July 31, 2009
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
The big picture
Is here. So volunteer! Tickets on sale at Fusion and MES. We expect the cocktail party to sell out so get your ticket now!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Dooryard Art and Workshops
Permanent art displays for the duration of the festival will be hosted at MACC OfficeFresh Market FoodsFusion Coffee Co.NBCC Lobby. Make sure you drop in to take a look.
On Friday the 14th and Saturday the 15th, artists and and crafts people will take over the down town waterfront from the Farm Market to the Main stage tent on water street. Many works will be for sale, so be sure to take the Dooryard Arts Tour.
On Friday the 14th and Saturday the 15th, artists and and crafts people will take over the down town waterfront from the Farm Market to the Main stage tent on water street. Many works will be for sale, so be sure to take the Dooryard Arts Tour.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Get the message
Found a great site where elementary, middle and high school students made 1-minute videos explaining how proposed budget cuts would affect them. We've just been through this in NB and managed to avoid cuts only because of an across-the-board public outcry. Well done, everyone. Check out these videos - same stuff, different pile south of the border.
Also, the English language version of the AAPNB has been launched, after nearly two years of consultation. Their website is here. Their objectives are very similar to RiVA's . . . .
Also, the English language version of the AAPNB has been launched, after nearly two years of consultation. Their website is here. Their objectives are very similar to RiVA's . . . .
Friday, July 24, 2009
Why history?
My conclusion is simple: As we can no longer rely on personal memory, or even on the force of personal encounters with this last of the wartime generations, so we need more and better history to be taught in our schools. History brought home with human stories. A good teacher might start with Bronek, Leszek and Ralf.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Some numbers to crunch
Volunteer hours in arts, culture, recreation and sport organizations represent 64% of total work in these organizations, much higher than the overall average of 20% for the non-profit sector.
Other types of organizations that rely more heavily on volunteers than on paid labour include those involved in law, advocacy and politics, the environment, religion, as well as international development, relief and human rights.
The replacement cost value of volunteer work in arts, culture, recreation and sport organizations is estimated at $3.6 billion.
P.S. We've moved the Dooryard mainstage to behind Home Hardware, where the pavement won't have to be disturbed by arts and culture. It's the best we could do.
Other types of organizations that rely more heavily on volunteers than on paid labour include those involved in law, advocacy and politics, the environment, religion, as well as international development, relief and human rights.
The replacement cost value of volunteer work in arts, culture, recreation and sport organizations is estimated at $3.6 billion.
P.S. We've moved the Dooryard mainstage to behind Home Hardware, where the pavement won't have to be disturbed by arts and culture. It's the best we could do.
Monday, July 20, 2009
12 holes or an arts festival
We are planning Woodstock's first 5 day arts festival for August. The schedule is below. Except that we might have to move it out of town because the Town of Woodstock won't let us put 12 holes in the Farm Market parking lot to secure our mainstage tent, which is required to be staked down in order to meet the building code.
Mega frustration, anyone?
I cannot understand for the life of me how the maintenance of a parking lot is more important than bringing residents and visitors together to enjoy a great festival.
Mega frustration, anyone?
I cannot understand for the life of me how the maintenance of a parking lot is more important than bringing residents and visitors together to enjoy a great festival.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Speaking of Guitars
Everyone's talking about Dave Carroll's Taylor Guitar. Here's a great commentary from a marketing blog about how the internet is changing the way consumers deal with customer service complaints.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Get your Dooryard ready...
The Dooryard Arts Festival will run from Wednesday, August 12th until Sunday, August 16th, and will be headquartered in downtown Woodstock. Most events will be free, walkable and open to all ages. Please watch the blog for schedule updates or visit http://www.rivervalleyarts.net/
Wednesday, August 12th
Free daytime art exhibits open in downtown buildings with more than 15 local artists confirmed.
Student music and local musician showcases on outdoor mainstage (King St.)
Cocktail party in the Connell House Parlour. Music by Tracy Anderson Group/Josh Guest (6-8pm; $10) Food by Debrah Westerburg
Evening Music: Singing Bridge Orchestra and Pat LePoidevin, downtown, with art by Adam Atherton.
Thursday, August 13th
Free daytime art and music showcases continue. Art workshops for children and adults
Premiere of “The Trials of Benny Swim” at the Old County Courthouse. (8pm, $15/10).
Ryan Griffith and the writers of Vagabond Trust at Fusion, with music by Colin Brewer. (8:30pm/free)
Friday, August 14th
Free daytime art and music showcases continue, with workshops.
Jens Jeppesen live at the Picaroon’s Garden Party. (8pm; Free)
Outdoor screening of local films including the Charlie Bomb series, NB Heritage Films, Chris Dow, music by Andrew Wiley(10pm; Free)
Midnight Music - Never the Same
Saturday, August 14th
Daytime art and music showcases continue, with workshops.
Food and Wine tasting - 4-6pm, downtown ($10/person with food vendors onsite)
Ross Neilson and the Sufferin’ Bastards live at the Picaroon’s Garden Party with opening act the Debarker Boys (8pm, $10 ticket)
Sunday, August 15th
Closing brunch downtown 10am-1pm. (Bring your own or price TBA)
Update: Workshops
Wednesday Aug 12th (2-4pm) & Saturday Aug 15th: 2 Part Pottery workshop for Kids with Wendy Thomas. Ages 8-11, downtown, weather permitting (rain location-Saint James United Church). Only 8 seats available, so register early by calling 328-2020 or email riva@rivervalleyarts.net
Session 1: build your piece by learning hand building and slab building techniques. Session 2: Glaze your piece. Participants will go home with their very own electric kiln fired work of art. Cost TBA
Friday Aug 14th (2-4pm) Printmaking Workshop with Michael McEwing (downtown). All ages welcome. Cost= $5.00 and there are 20 seats available.Register by calling 328-2020 or email riva@rivervalleyarts.net.
Learn various carving techniques, how to create a print plate and print your very own series of images.
Wednesday, August 12th
Free daytime art exhibits open in downtown buildings with more than 15 local artists confirmed.
Student music and local musician showcases on outdoor mainstage (King St.)
Cocktail party in the Connell House Parlour. Music by Tracy Anderson Group/Josh Guest (6-8pm; $10) Food by Debrah Westerburg
Evening Music: Singing Bridge Orchestra and Pat LePoidevin, downtown, with art by Adam Atherton.
Thursday, August 13th
Free daytime art and music showcases continue. Art workshops for children and adults
Premiere of “The Trials of Benny Swim” at the Old County Courthouse. (8pm, $15/10).
Ryan Griffith and the writers of Vagabond Trust at Fusion, with music by Colin Brewer. (8:30pm/free)
Friday, August 14th
Free daytime art and music showcases continue, with workshops.
Jens Jeppesen live at the Picaroon’s Garden Party. (8pm; Free)
Outdoor screening of local films including the Charlie Bomb series, NB Heritage Films, Chris Dow, music by Andrew Wiley(10pm; Free)
Midnight Music - Never the Same
Saturday, August 14th
Daytime art and music showcases continue, with workshops.
Food and Wine tasting - 4-6pm, downtown ($10/person with food vendors onsite)
Ross Neilson and the Sufferin’ Bastards live at the Picaroon’s Garden Party with opening act the Debarker Boys (8pm, $10 ticket)
Sunday, August 15th
Closing brunch downtown 10am-1pm. (Bring your own or price TBA)
Update: Workshops
Wednesday Aug 12th (2-4pm) & Saturday Aug 15th: 2 Part Pottery workshop for Kids with Wendy Thomas. Ages 8-11, downtown, weather permitting (rain location-Saint James United Church). Only 8 seats available, so register early by calling 328-2020 or email riva@rivervalleyarts.net
Session 1: build your piece by learning hand building and slab building techniques. Session 2: Glaze your piece. Participants will go home with their very own electric kiln fired work of art. Cost TBA
Friday Aug 14th (2-4pm) Printmaking Workshop with Michael McEwing (downtown). All ages welcome. Cost= $5.00 and there are 20 seats available.Register by calling 328-2020 or email riva@rivervalleyarts.net.
Learn various carving techniques, how to create a print plate and print your very own series of images.
Saturday, July 04, 2009
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Darwin's lesson: abundance
Diabolical corn has hatched a plot to take over the world, says Michael Pollan.
For a long time I have been thinking about that rascal Hobbes and the idea of scarcity. You might remember Hobbes and his "nasty, brutish and short" view of the world. This fear-based perspective on the political and economic world (and for some people, their inter-personal world) has done great damage, causing us to brutalize other people, steal their resources, and generally be mean and selfish.
Combine Hobbes with Descartes' ideas that nature is separate from culture and that human are superior because we have consciousness, and you get the great disgrace that humans have done to the biosphere and to our place in the cosmos. Sounds like hocus pocus, I know, but how often does a modern human truly experience his or herself as "at home" among all the species of the natural world? Not nearly often enough.
In any case, Pollan takes a look at the world with humans as one species of many. He shows how this perspective erases the antagonism between culture and nature. All species can flourish by sharing in Earth's natural abundance, if we allow the other species to play the roles they have evolved to fulfill. Great news for a rainy June day.
For a long time I have been thinking about that rascal Hobbes and the idea of scarcity. You might remember Hobbes and his "nasty, brutish and short" view of the world. This fear-based perspective on the political and economic world (and for some people, their inter-personal world) has done great damage, causing us to brutalize other people, steal their resources, and generally be mean and selfish.
Combine Hobbes with Descartes' ideas that nature is separate from culture and that human are superior because we have consciousness, and you get the great disgrace that humans have done to the biosphere and to our place in the cosmos. Sounds like hocus pocus, I know, but how often does a modern human truly experience his or herself as "at home" among all the species of the natural world? Not nearly often enough.
In any case, Pollan takes a look at the world with humans as one species of many. He shows how this perspective erases the antagonism between culture and nature. All species can flourish by sharing in Earth's natural abundance, if we allow the other species to play the roles they have evolved to fulfill. Great news for a rainy June day.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
The triumphs of the father
I'm usually a Father's Day cynic but here's a great article about one Chinese Dad's sacrifices during the Cultural Revolution. Thanks to my dad for showing me how to work, laugh, and be a generous and decent human being.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
School or not school: that is always the question
Came across a great podcast about education. Two excellent educational heretics take on the notion that learning is memory, and that testing and data are the measure of learning. Here are some random excerpts:
“School should be the kind of place where you can have [growth] experiences that you very probably wouldn’t have in the world outside school.”
“There are a number of basic physiological differences between things in short term memory and things in long term memory. Short term memories seem to be bioelectric activity and long term memories seems to be chemical change, an actual change in the structure of the brain.”
"I think the first thing that happened, and it didn’t just happen in education, the first thing that happened in about the 1850’s was that people decided that education and agriculture and manufacturing needed to be systematized. It wasn’t a question of changing the machinery to fit the individual, but of changing the individual to fit the machinery."
In fact, in the early 20th century, one adovcate of mandatory schooling wrote "Plans are underway to replace family, community and church with propaganda, education and mass media."
-------------
I have been doing a great deal of thinking about education, what it is, how it works, and what our system chooses to do and not do, who they empower and who they disenfranchise. A few thoughts:
1. We need to get back to raising adults. Fully capable, autonomous adults. And I don't mean this in the "we should spank 'em more and make 'em pay attention" kind of way. We ought to be teaching people from their earliest days how to take care of themselves and others, how to behave responsibly and make independent decisions without being bullied.
2. Children are inherent learners. We should get out of their way and let them learn. Most of them will teach themselves or others if they get interested at a young enough age.
3. Children deserve to be taught by people who know about the discipline they are teaching. Not by people told to "follow the textbook."
4. Educating the next generation shouldn't be the sole responsibility of schools. Everyone in the community should assist in raising fully capable adults.
“School should be the kind of place where you can have [growth] experiences that you very probably wouldn’t have in the world outside school.”
“There are a number of basic physiological differences between things in short term memory and things in long term memory. Short term memories seem to be bioelectric activity and long term memories seems to be chemical change, an actual change in the structure of the brain.”
"I think the first thing that happened, and it didn’t just happen in education, the first thing that happened in about the 1850’s was that people decided that education and agriculture and manufacturing needed to be systematized. It wasn’t a question of changing the machinery to fit the individual, but of changing the individual to fit the machinery."
In fact, in the early 20th century, one adovcate of mandatory schooling wrote "Plans are underway to replace family, community and church with propaganda, education and mass media."
-------------
I have been doing a great deal of thinking about education, what it is, how it works, and what our system chooses to do and not do, who they empower and who they disenfranchise. A few thoughts:
1. We need to get back to raising adults. Fully capable, autonomous adults. And I don't mean this in the "we should spank 'em more and make 'em pay attention" kind of way. We ought to be teaching people from their earliest days how to take care of themselves and others, how to behave responsibly and make independent decisions without being bullied.
2. Children are inherent learners. We should get out of their way and let them learn. Most of them will teach themselves or others if they get interested at a young enough age.
3. Children deserve to be taught by people who know about the discipline they are teaching. Not by people told to "follow the textbook."
4. Educating the next generation shouldn't be the sole responsibility of schools. Everyone in the community should assist in raising fully capable adults.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Marches continue in Tehran
The debate is going global - see the Iranian football team wearing pro-Mousavi wristbands in Seoul.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Monday, June 15, 2009
Friday, June 12, 2009
I recognize that t-shirt
Dan Weiss is the only drummer I'm familiar with in this article. And I'm pretty sure when I saw him play with David Binney in '07 that he was wearing the same t-shirt in this picture. That tells you what the average income of a jazz drummer is - sad, isn't it, for musicians who are gymnastic mathematicians with the brainpower of Buddhist monks.
Seriously, modern jazz drumming is one of the most complex and riveting phenomena of our time. If you have a hard time clapping your hands on the "off beats" these guys really are rocket scientists. Can you tell I have some major respect for them?
In any case, this article also shows a lot of the connections between jazz drumming and the whole gamut of music - metal, indian, funk, you name it. Anybody who thinks labels can define music accurately is kidding herself. The era of genres is over.
Seriously, modern jazz drumming is one of the most complex and riveting phenomena of our time. If you have a hard time clapping your hands on the "off beats" these guys really are rocket scientists. Can you tell I have some major respect for them?
In any case, this article also shows a lot of the connections between jazz drumming and the whole gamut of music - metal, indian, funk, you name it. Anybody who thinks labels can define music accurately is kidding herself. The era of genres is over.
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
There's plenty more plans where that came from . . .
From the Times and Transcript:
Chiasson said there are already a number of plans in place and these must be brought together. These include the new municipal plan, the heritage plan, the recreation master plan, the energy audit, a strategic plan, a downtown revitalization plan and the tree inventory, among others.
Possible topics within the overall plan would be transportation, energy conservation, renewable energy, water quality, wastewater, waste management, human health, community planning, poverty reduction, housing, green spaces and climate change.
The town? Good ol' Sackville, NB.
Chiasson said there are already a number of plans in place and these must be brought together. These include the new municipal plan, the heritage plan, the recreation master plan, the energy audit, a strategic plan, a downtown revitalization plan and the tree inventory, among others.
Possible topics within the overall plan would be transportation, energy conservation, renewable energy, water quality, wastewater, waste management, human health, community planning, poverty reduction, housing, green spaces and climate change.
The town? Good ol' Sackville, NB.
Leave your favourite line
Neil Young doesn't edit his songs after writing them, which leads to some pretty interesting lyrics. What is your favourite line from Neil? It's a hard choice, there are so many good ones!Wednesday, June 03, 2009
Homework assignment: "Geologian" Thomas Berry
"A line from the Kentucky poet, James Still, is also a tribute to Thomas: 'I was born humble, at the foot of mountains, my face was set upon the immensities of Earth, and stone, and upon the oaks full-bodied and old. There is so much writ upon the parchment of leaves, so much of beauty blown upon the winds. I can but fold my hands, and bend my knees in the leaf pages.'"
Monday, June 01, 2009
Micheal Moore's Elegy for GM
Last night I heard GM was about to file for bankruptcy and that they taxpayers in Canada and the US will assume a large part of the debt, and by extension, a stake in the company.
Here are Michael Moore's surprisingly practical and inspiring suggestions for how shareholders can transform the company. Coast to coast in 17 hours - unreal...
Naomi Klein suggests that hyper-capitalists use disasters to make changes to the public system for their own gain. Why can't citizens do the same, and put people to work at building an equitable and sustainable transportation system? The time has come, methinks.
Here are Michael Moore's surprisingly practical and inspiring suggestions for how shareholders can transform the company. Coast to coast in 17 hours - unreal...
Naomi Klein suggests that hyper-capitalists use disasters to make changes to the public system for their own gain. Why can't citizens do the same, and put people to work at building an equitable and sustainable transportation system? The time has come, methinks.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Don't Think About It
What do torture, a major recession, and two debilitating wars have to do with our educational system? My guess: plenty. These are the three most immediate realities of a system that fails to challenge, or even critique, authority in any meaningful way. They are bills that are now long overdue thanks, in part, to that system's technocratic bias and pedagogical shortfalls -- thanks, that is, to what we are taught to see and not see, regard and disregard, value and dismiss.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
The Deadly Poetic Weapon
Globe: What is a poet laureate?
RP: I'm thinking of it almost [as] a town crier. Basically, they see it as a chronicler of events, but to me I also want to be a representative of my arts community, which I feel is underrepresented in the mainstream press ... I want to be a springboard for other people.
I'm jealous, Edmonton.
RP: I'm thinking of it almost [as] a town crier. Basically, they see it as a chronicler of events, but to me I also want to be a representative of my arts community, which I feel is underrepresented in the mainstream press ... I want to be a springboard for other people.
I'm jealous, Edmonton.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Give it away now
I've always felt bad for poor people in the USA. Not to minimze the poor that we have here in Canada, but in the U.S. it seems they face greater hardships: no healthcare, pitifully underfunded public education, very few labour protections, no legally mandated vacation and a regressive tax system.
Ironically, these same people are the most generous givers as a proportion of their income.
Speaking of underfunded public education, today's the big day in District 14. I don't understand how the government thinks struggling children can learn without access to books, teaching assistants and behavioural intervention. Since when does economic stimulus not include maintaining jobs in the school system? Is it election time yet?
Ironically, these same people are the most generous givers as a proportion of their income.
Speaking of underfunded public education, today's the big day in District 14. I don't understand how the government thinks struggling children can learn without access to books, teaching assistants and behavioural intervention. Since when does economic stimulus not include maintaining jobs in the school system? Is it election time yet?
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
The joy that you make on your own
Think the recession is going to kill creativity? Not so much.
And read this bit about a plucky group of small town citizens who decided to save the historic buildings in their area.
And read this bit about a plucky group of small town citizens who decided to save the historic buildings in their area.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Video might have killed the radio star
but the modern internet was built by music file-sharing. Read this.
A powerful little book has gone to press about the Agent Orange spraying in NB. This should be mandatory reading for Canadian History classes. The more I think about it, the more I see how New Brunswickers are treated like people in developing countries - as expendable guinea pigs, in many cases.
A powerful little book has gone to press about the Agent Orange spraying in NB. This should be mandatory reading for Canadian History classes. The more I think about it, the more I see how New Brunswickers are treated like people in developing countries - as expendable guinea pigs, in many cases.
The internet can't save our history
Remnants of our history are slowing deteriorating because there is no money available to maintain museum collections.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
My vote for the first exhibit in the 702 Gallery.
We should do an NB version of this! It might explode people's perception a bit.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Shameless Community Self-Promotion!
The River Valley Arts Alliance (RiVA) is hosting an “Art Walk” on Saturday, May 23rd, from 2-4 pm. This event is part scavenger hunt, part card game and will begin and end at the Woodstock Farmer’s Market. Participants will be sent to various historic houses in the downtown area to gather information and the grand prize winner will take home a special work of art donated by a local artist.
The cost to participate is $5, with all proceeds going to support RiVA’s efforts at transforming 702 Main St. into a community arts centre. This event is open to all ages and we hope you and your family will join us for an art adventure in beautiful downtown Woodstock. For more information, contact Amy Anderson at 328-2020 or email amandrs@mta.ca
The cost to participate is $5, with all proceeds going to support RiVA’s efforts at transforming 702 Main St. into a community arts centre. This event is open to all ages and we hope you and your family will join us for an art adventure in beautiful downtown Woodstock. For more information, contact Amy Anderson at 328-2020 or email amandrs@mta.ca
Thursday, May 07, 2009
Like a conservatory for cool people...
Living in an apartment building with all musicians . . . awesome!
Also, since I posted about hockey last month, I might as well forward you this piece about American Idol. Which I've watched for a total of ten minutes in ten years, but still, it's hard to ignore.
Also, since I posted about hockey last month, I might as well forward you this piece about American Idol. Which I've watched for a total of ten minutes in ten years, but still, it's hard to ignore.
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
Piano link for my bandmates
Word on the street is we're looking for tunes. Check out this site, it's got a great mix of stuff. Including Bohemian Rhapsody, Katelin!
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Working for the weekend...when we get to eat and sleep
New study today shows that Canadians spend very little time on food and leisure compared to other citizens worldwide. We are working too hard, and it's making us tired, obese and generally grumpy :) That part wasn't in the study but I'm not a pundit for The National so I can say that instead of just thinking it.
One last thing - all of those tax-cutting types pretend that life in the Nordic democracies is terrible - everyone is overtaxed, the government interferes with everything, it's hard on business. But from this perspective, it looks like they have lots of time for hobbies, visiting, eating and relaxing. I hate taxes as much as the next person, but that seems like a pretty good deal to me . . .
One last thing - all of those tax-cutting types pretend that life in the Nordic democracies is terrible - everyone is overtaxed, the government interferes with everything, it's hard on business. But from this perspective, it looks like they have lots of time for hobbies, visiting, eating and relaxing. I hate taxes as much as the next person, but that seems like a pretty good deal to me . . .
Saturday, May 02, 2009
Swine Flu: it's what's for dinner
Apologies to my meat-eating friends, but you should read this article that ties the rise in factory farming to the increase in super-viruses such as swine flu. Makes that pig from Centreville look better all the time...
Thursday, April 30, 2009
The A-train, revisited
I love the Ellington tune, "Take the A Train." I would have loved to be on this memorial subway car yesterday, with the Ellington orchestra. Happy 110th, Duke!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Not the yellow submarine
Apparently Colombian drug cartels are now shipping drugs into the USA via homemade semi-submarines. Manufactured in the jungle and packed with cocaine, they navigate via GPS and are very hard to detect. I know this isn't a good thing for the US, but you have to admire that kind of ingenuity....wow.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
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