The Second Cummins of Christ: Only in British Columbia
Two things sprang to mind for me over the last weekend, while continuing to observe what will surely be the thunderous, and, deserving, implosion of the provincial Conservative party.
One, was my rather joyful read, some years ago, of ‘The Victory of Reason’ by controversial author Rodney Stark. A revolutionary at heart, and perhaps the most important religious researcher of the last 100 years, Stark advanced the cause of Christianity, through principled, rational postulates, which, even for anti-theists, plodded a logical path–whether you believed or not. Putting yourself in the position of any reasonable Christian (thanks to the BC Conservative Party, this, for us, is NO LONGER a redundant phrase) it’s not hard to accept the sensible arguments in support of the world’s most pervasive monotheistic faith as facilitator of democracy, justice, science, intellectualism (remember the origins of the intellectual parlours; held by Christ–whether you believe him the Son of God, or not) and, yes, even politics.
Christianity, like no other religion, has its significant warts, too. Mammoth ones. But Stark’s assertions, at least for me, a sometimes disaffected Christian, rang utterly true. While I appreciate the scientific arguments opposed, I cannot extract faith from faith, which is what one would need do to understand, dare I say accept, my hero’s last great book, ‘God is Not Great’.
The late Hitch, God keep rested his weary soul, had a way with titles.
The second, was how I distinctly remember viewing the now infamous video of former premier Bill VanderZalm, wherein he compared his then sorry political predicament to the crucifixion of The Almighty.
I was deeply conflicted. While I understood where the premier was going, it was neither the time or place to raise the matter. This was the eighties.
The world opted for cocaine, to slow down…
Trying to fathom VanderZalm’s incomprehensible juxtaposition (one had been crucified to death, the other simply having a rough political ride) was one thing, but having to accept that this was precisely what his critics were waiting for–and leapt upon, was quite another.
I was a political aide, eventually. This didn’t seem right to me at all.
Who wouldn’t take care to stay away from such untimely?
Though, in VanderZalm’s case, and, I might add, happily, he now gets it. Not long ago, we were reminiscing about the old days and in a moment of complete clarity and total honesty (which have not escaped him or his perpetually sharp noggin’), Bill said: “You know, Alex, as we saw it together, there really isn’t a place for that kind of discussion in politics. One doesn’t have to give up their principles, but it’s good to be careful how you convey them. I think we learned that the hard way perhaps, however…things are radically different now…and we know. Don’t we?”
Yes, my old friend, we certainly do.
A rather seminal, yet cathartic, moment in the life of an exceedingly decent man, who genuinely cares about people, VanderZalm’s admission–as well, Stark’s left-brained, cogent probe, might well be a study and a half, for beleaguered BC Conservative leader John Cummins.
His ‘God Complex’ is, frankly, astonishing, if not offensive. Last week, when he uttered almost the identical words about himself to the comparison Bill made over two decades ago, I shuddered to think that this was a man that could possibly understand what he’d done.
Or someone lucid enough to run a liquorice counter at the corner store, much less the province.
Cummins, for all of his tenacity, has, of late, comported himself like a complete idiot. A full-on buffoon. His critics aren’t the ones handing Christy back any percentage of the center-right vote, Jesus Cummins and his followers are.
This afternoon, I obtained an exclusive copy of an email sent by raving dimbell, Al Siebring, a Director-at-Large of the Benevolent Utterly Lovely Literally Stupendous High Intensity Tent (BULLSHIT).
Here is his shameless, shameful, unedited screed:
To: CA Presidents, BCCP.
In the most recent email you received from Mr. Besler (copied below), he neglects to mention several things. First of all, the motion to give Mr.Cummins the honorarium passed unanimously.
Ben Besler voted for this honorarium.
From the minutes of the July 7th meeting:
“It is moved by Ian Pyper, seconded by Joan Robinson:
Having regard to:
1. The fact that the Provincial Election in BC is just over 10 months away; and
2 The advice given to this Board at its meeting on June 9th, 2012,by our Leader, John Cummins, that the costs of leadership were such that he would have to curtail his current heavy schedule and,
3. The fact that the Leaders of the other two major parties receive substantial remuneration and expenses both from their Parties and from the people through Legislature salaries and benefits;
It is hereby moved that the Leader of the BC Conservative Party receive an honorarium of $4000 per month commencing on July 1, 2012.
Carried.”
(The minutes do not show any negative recorded votes. The roll call shows Mr. Besler was at the meeting. Those minutes were approved by the Board without amendment at a subsequent meeting, and again Mr. Besler was present. What’s all of that tell you?)
As to the business about donations falling off, it’s not as serious as he makes it out to be. And interestingly, to the degree that there has been a drop in donations, that didn’t start to happen in any substantive way until a few dissidents on the Board started causing trouble for the AGM organizing committee, leaking confidential stuff to the media, and agitating for a leadership review with the unauthorized use of a improperly obtained (stolen?) membership database.
For them to whine to you (or the membership at large) about the problems that exist now is akin to dousing the inside of a house with gasoline, throwing a match into it, and then running to the neighbours to complain that the house is on fire!!!
Mr. Besler has spread this poison beyond just the CA Presidents. Anyone who bothered to respond to his first email received essentially the same letter as the one below. One answer I saw from a Party member sums up the appropriate response:
“If you think Cummins is in this for personal income you are insane. I have been one of the largest contributors… (and) I would never question his leadership or his success in building this Party. He gave up a lot to do this for us. We need to support him. I am ashamed of people who have embarrassed us so much in these recent weeks. You have done more for Christy than she has done for herself. You should be ashamed.”
Indeed, he should.
Al Siebring,
Director at Large,
Presidential Candidate,
BCCP.
Siebring is, of course, foaming at the fangs, over this little diddy below, produced by fellow Director and Party Vice-President, Ben Besler.
—– Original Message —–
From: Ben Besler
Date: 5 September, 2012
To: undisclosed-recipients:;
Subject: Address to BCC Presidents
Hello, BC Conservative Presidents:
The feedback I’ve been getting from my address to the membership, this past week, has been positive in the fact that I have had a chance to clear up issues relating to party communication and administration that have been weighing heavy this past term.
It seems as though there are issues affecting our party that many of you had wished the respect of knowing sooner, but were not privy to.
Please let me clarify, too, that my intent on bringing to light party matters and the encouragement to vote yes in the leadership review, is that this party can ensure a strong success in the next general election.
Although you may not be aware, it has been made public knowledge, that our party has limited funds and has weekend its ability to raise funds this term. In fact, last month our expenses were twice that of funds raised. With this in mind, in a vote that was not permitted to go to secret ballot at a board meeting, by our party president Reed Elley when asked for; and in contrast to our one MLA putting up his own money to fight the BC Rail case. John Cummins is now taking $4000.00 per month, plus his expenses, of the party’s limited resources, to add to his extremely high personal income, at a time when we need every resource possible to fight the next general election. With this in mind, we must ask ourselves what the motivation of the leadership of this party is when we have not seen, although we have gone through two by-elections, one workshop to train our volunteers in election readiness. When we had seen the growth of this party’s organisation develop, on an average rate at one Constituency Association (CA) every two weeks from 2010-2011, to a stagnant term where CAs have now resigned and dissolved. To the inability to provide in many instances a positive work environment, respect to volunteers, and a proper channel of communication to you our CA presidents and local representatives.
The fact of the matter is that we will not be relevant in the next election, even in times like these, through a campaign of press releases and limited resources.
I hope this brings more clarification to recent statements.
If there are other items I can clear up, you can give me a private call.
Ben Besler
Vice President
BC Conservative Party
This contest of titans–not, is, of course, all over Besler’s grounded, sober and pragmatic effort to force Cummins into immediate retirement. Siebring, on the other hand, is part of the incoherently babbling, hard-line, right-wing radical ‘God Squad’, which has the party in its death grip.
Siebring tries to excuse party President, and generally bigoted, Rev. Reed Elley, who before a July Board vote on Cummins ridiculous, obscene stipend, demanded an open ballot–thus forcing even those, like Besler, who knew better, to be embarrassed into voting ‘yay’.
These people are no better qualified to run a lemonade stand than they are a province. It’s simple: inexperienced ignoramuses, such as Siebring, are actually delusional enough to believe Cummins, single-handidly brought their party from the outhouse to the penthouse.
Apparently, they aren’t able to, at all, recognize a first floor elevator door when they see one.
Cummins isn’t responsible for the vast majority of BC Conservative success. Christy Clark is. If Falcon or Abbott had not been cheated out of the leadership by Clark’s mentor Patrick Kinsella, her brother Bruce and her ex-husband Mark Marissen–the latter two, political thugs of the first order (just ask Dave Basi and Bob Virk), then there would be NO BC Conservative Party to speak of. And if there were, perhaps the outside rim of 5% in the polls would be visible from the front row, never mind the back.
Maybe.
If you object to nothing else of Cummins’ insanity–I note, the list has become exhaustive, the fact he is collecting $4000.00 per month from his party when they can ill-afford it, tells you everything you need to know. Cummins as possible leader of this province is a sham, only second to the one being fulsomely perpetrated by the current occupant of the throne in the West Annex.
But no one awaken Siebring or the rest of the imbeciles wanting to go into battle with an absent-minded, septaugenarian extremist dullard, who believes it, in any way grounded, to compare his political journey to Christ’s Resurrection.
If John Cummins is still the leader of the party past the BC Conservative convention in two weeks, then you can prepare for the withdrawal of Rick Peterson as their star candidate in Vancouver (the Quilchena nomination has been postponed)–a massive blow to their credibility, and the sitting as an Independent of the people’s hero, John vanDongen–the coup de grâce.
The machinations will transpire with all the hellfire of their favourite tome, I assure you.
Because there will be blood.
Just no wooden cross or nails.
______________________________
A special shout out to the Premier!
Christy, it was good to see you in the school’s drive way yesterday, even from twenty feet away. Why did you leave so quickly after I appeared? Hmm, that’s strange. Too bad you leapt into your security detail’s vehicle before I could catch up to you and congratulate you on getting Hamish accepted to St. George’s.
Remember, when on the property or at ANY school events, we’re on the same team.
Don’t forget to remind Marky Mark.
And by the way, I loved your suit…
Oh Sheesh! There goes the neighbourhood. One can only hope that the Headmaster and teachers can stand the ‘bullying’ that is sure to come their way. Alex run interference if you can for the sake of the school and parents because this is going to get very interesting.
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It’s already started, but I’m sworn to silence. In fact, the last time I covered a story related to the school, she called and complained and I was reprimanded. Quite ridiculous, but I abided by their demands.
Just wondering: She told Bill Good in February that she demands “faith-based” schooling for young Hamish.
We’re not faith-based at all. In fact, my favorite boy in George’s class is an adorable Jewish lad–his parents are wonderful, too. And my son’s best pal is Sikh.
Yup, we”re faith-based. Lots of faith that when she waltzes into the first Grade 6 parent cocktail party, she’ll appropriately greet me and my good friend Michael Bolton (yes, Dave Basi’s defence lawyer). Mike’s wonderful boy is also in the same class…LOL!
We could conduct our own mini-BC Rail inquiry if she brings her exhusband Mark and brother Bruce!!! LMAO!!!!
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Run interference?? Let SGS take care of itself and you take care of yourself. Maybe the fact that CC’s kid is there is why there is a (Christian) school prayer now, as well as grace? The staff are already tired and demoralized enough without the crap she tows along with her. Neighborhood started going down before her arrival! Security details and all will REALLY endear the neighbors – they are already pissed off enough about the traffic.
So…when will your epic CC T-shirts finally be available? Been dyin’ to find out! Have they been back-burnered?
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No! For the umpteenth time, the school prayer and grace have been around for almost eighty years. But that doesn’t make us faith-based. St. George’s is born of the Anglican tradition. But for anyone to suggest that it’s faith-based because of a simple prayer and grace before meals, is silly.
No religious instruction is taught and no religious studies are compulsory in any way.
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Yet,prayer has been part of the public school system for more than a hundred years,and it is considered faith based and offensive to some. Some things never change. Different rules for different folks.
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What, no comment Alex.
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On what? What for? Did I miss something?
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she needs a security detail to take the kid to school??????
give me a rest. if she is in possible harms way why go to a school full of kids? If she isn’t in possible harms way why have the security detail?
I just loved the “shout out to Christie”. I am so sorry I wasn’t able to attend that little event. Of course it wouldn’t be appropriate, but it would be so funny to watch. Thank you ever so much for sharing!
the column regarding the BCCP, is bang on & it is good to have the information out there so the rank & file can make the necessary adjustments prior to the election. As I have said before, although an NDP supporter, for a democracy to be effective you need at least two parties & you need a good opposition in the legislature. The lieberals aren’t going to be it, so the Conservatives could have made a go of it. Unfortunately that now doesn’t appear to be the case. We can only hope that people will run as independants & participate in the legislature in the best interests of those they represent.
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Oh, now you stop that.
She was beautiful and resplendant in Tory blue. To match her eyes…
Simply ravishing…to match her incredibly successful time as Premier.
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Since we really can’t do anything about CC’s security detail, let’s pass a law that says all future Premiers can’t have one.
Like really, it’s not like someone showed up in a bathrobe and killed someone recently …
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I think it’s essential that all premiers have security detail. And armed.
But to pick up from school? She just stood there like a vacant imp, shaking hands with some boys and a few parents. And double parked, making flowing traffic nearly.impossible. Quite ridiculous. Not a stitch of brains.
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“… She was beautiful and resplendant in Tory blue. To match her eyes… ”
I’ve heard her eyes are so blue, when looking at them, it’s like gazing up the anus of a smurf!
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Well, I must say, I hadn’t seen her since her NW days.
I think she got shorter!
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And wider!
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Okay, easy there, Tiger.
I’m hardly perfect either.
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I was watching a news piece on Rob Ford, Toronto’s mayor. He had EIGHT huge cops around him as his security detail. Talk about unpopular!
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Blue eyes? She is so full of internal color that you would think her eyes would be brown by now.
As for the bcbs party the latest from elley is a thinly veiled threat that any leadership vote will cost too much money and set the party back for next election. So close to a threat that it made me angry especially from god’s right hand .
The two people that sent out membership emails misused the members list to call for a leadership vote. etc. Infighting before any concrete election talk is bad already. I am glad that the rhino party is not running as they would most likely form our next government.
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Verrry interesting. A couple of points here
Firstly, I would doubt unless there is a specific written presentable cite that neither Christy Crunch or Adrian Dix are given salaries from their respective parties. They would (as any members of the Provincial
Poobahs receive reimbursement of expenses but only related to Party Business not that of being Grand Poobah or Poobah in Waiting.
There is nothing wrong with reimbursing either one from their respective parties if it comes to related to Party Business, but both have integrated their Government roles and Party roles very closely
together.
The error here is trying to raise Cummins to something equivalent to a Sitting MLA as Leader, which he isn’t. He’s currently a leader of a Third Party.
I would as a member have a real problem in paying out a salary and
those expenses. Cummins should only receive reimbursement of expenses related to Party business. He has enough on his own retirement income and investments to pay for his own time. Even if he is elected as MLA (and not Opposition Leader), he is still entitled to the same compensation the NDP MLAs and the 8 to 10 BC Liberal MLAs. That of course is on top of his continuing MPs pension and of coruse equity returns from his investments including his house).
Thirdly it looks from the email that the Grand Order of Poobahs in the Conservatives didn’t think ahead on that one
As far as VanderZalm goes as to what he figured his predicament was, let’s say the accumlating situation impacts were quite different out there in the ridings about that mess. He should have listen to those who told him how stupid his moves were, but he (and his convulted followers didn’t listen and as they say the rest is history.
Seems the BC Conservatives didn’t read that chapter
and haven’t learned. The results of the test will be not what they had
hoped for.
and why? Simply for the same reason. They don’t seem to want to listen to those who are telling them how stupid both Cummins and the BC Conservatives moves are right now.
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Just came across this relevent tidbit….
___________________________________
“Minutes from in-camera meeting of the party’s directors, held Aug. 12 at the Airport Holiday Inn, describe a growing rift between Cummins and John van Dongen, the former Liberal MLA who defected to the Tories in March.”
“Although John van Dongen met with the Leader to discuss issues, John van Dongen can no longer support John Cummins’ leadership style,” read the minutes.
A vote by secret ballot was then held to change the party’s bylaws to allow for leadership review to be held in conjunction with the Sept. 22 annual general meeting. The vote passed, with 11 in favour and five opposed.
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http://www.theprovince.com/news/Leaked+documents+indicate+growing+rift+between+John+Cummins/7203134/story.html
Throw in the fact that the infamous Moe Sihota is party prez of the BC NDP and this province’s political scene is going down the toilet. And fast.
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Absolutely correct. Always a pleasure to hear from you.
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Actually the political scene in Victoria has gone through the toilet, through the sewage system and is somewhere in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.
As far as the power struggle going on with the BC Conservative Party, I have a suspicion that there could be some skulduggery at play. Cummins has stated emphatically that he will not capitulate and unite the right to avoid vote-splitting and a clear path for the BC NDP to grab the reins of power. With this in mind, is it possible that some of the members of the BCCP have been coerced into creating turmoil in the hopes that the BC Liberals would get a benefit?
The BCCP may have some nutbars in their fold but I doubt they have a monopoly in that department.
One thing that is obvious is that politics in BC is never boring.
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Such conspiracies are ridiculous, considering the people wanting Cummins to leave. This includes top BC Tories and their associates. All of whom hate Clark with a white hot passion.
Not possible.
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Politics is amazing in this province. Dix feeling a majority win doesn’t want to say or do anything that might offend anyone. Right or left. This allows Premier Crusty the freedom to lose all the rats from her ship and appoint the engine men and the stewards to the First Mate positions. With nary a mention, from the opposition, of these peoples singular lack of ability to read a map let alone steer a ship. The Conservatives of course are using the Diefenbaker play book and sticking knives in each others backs to the detriment of themselves and the right wing of this province. If Captain Crusty wasn’t so abysmally stupid she would sell off BC Hydro to one of her cronies (for a healthy stipend of course) and then resign for the sake of her family. Of course then the ignorami in this province would vote Liberal again, Dix would cry, the Tories would dig their own graves, and LDB Coleman would be in charge of the wholesale of BC. ( I think my tongue is firmly in cheek).
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This quote is from a very respected member of an online Victoria forum.
“Meanwhile the BC Conservatives will be holding a knock ‘em down battle at the Sally Ann Citadell on Douglas near MacKenzie on Saturday – will they remove John Cummins or not?”
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I think if Cummins is going something happens in the coming week. Great post Alex!
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Thanks, pal. You’re doing a super job servicing the people with the sad truth about the BC Liberals.
You’re a hero. And don’t you forget it.
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Thanks AGT! A pleasure!
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And you also!
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I do trust that the blue clothing was appropriate for visiting a boy’s school, with the proper cut in the upper half. We wouldn’t want any of the pubescent lads getting ideas about their “leader” would we?
As we all know, our Premier makes a clean breast of the subject. “Families First”.
Evidently, as a single Mom, her skills at “Family First” have been questionable.
This Conservative Party is rather busy showing how they can lie on equal grounds with the ruling Liberals.
And the NDP have a Party President with a ridiculous past. Their fortune is a leader who is eloquent and professional, but one who I wouldn’t trust as far as I could throw him.
I may move to Syria.
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Hysterically funny. But so true!
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Hey, Sir Alex… I don’t believe for one moment voters would be so Beyond Stupid as to give Cute Canute a full term with your journalism. I don’t.
I am not surprised that another right wing party is disintegrating. Bad timing though, only van Dongen and his lead feet could save them now. It would be awesome if the BC Cons could lead a coalition government with just enough BC Libs to keep the BCNDP out of power and in a very junior position, but I don’t see that happening after your journalism here. Especially since most BC Cons consider your blog a genuine source of news.
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The writing was on the wall when Campbell was forced to resign as the HST was voted down. People are fed up of tightening their belts while the David Hahns of the province waltz away with million dollar severances. Costs are going up and the BC Liberals wring their hands and blame the Euro for their economic woes, then cut services and hike fees so BC Hydro can buy power from their buddy’s IPP for two or three times the cost of what they could get doing it themselves.
The centre-right brand at all is damaged because the BC Liberals couldn’t govern worth a damn anyways so as the HST bribe ran out when the Olympics went over budget (like they always do), the facade began to crumble and we got to see what the party was really about. I mentioned BC Hydro, the ferries are a shambles as well. If service cuts don’t kill off what coastal communities there are, the ferry service (or lack thereof) will. Did anyone really buy the argument of making the ferries “a tourist destination?” Is it really surprising that a service to get people from point A to point B isn’t making money because it costs too much for people to use regularly?
The people who are taking the brunt of service cuts and fee hikes aren’t dumb and the BC Liberals can’t blame Glen Clark forever, although they love trying, as far as I can tell. (Speaking of, I met him a while back and REALLY wanted to say “Ahh, the bogeyman in the flesh” but can’t let the bosses know there is a crazy lefty in their midst.)
Don’t take this as an endorsement of the NDP either, I’m FAR to the left of even the most hardcore Dipper and I see Dix running to fill the vacuum left by Clark and Co in the centre, if not more toward this end of the spectrum. That and their idiotic stance on fracking make me just want to spend the time putting in a garden rather than voting because I’ll get more support from it than anybody I could for vote for (and I’ll be ahead of the game if the world economy implodes, score!)
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You sure sound like you planted something green alright.
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Won’t be able to afford liquor if Coleman gets his way, so might as well get prepared early!
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LMFAO! GOOD ONE!!!
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Apparently only the affluent need liquor to even remotely consider having a crush on Premier Plastic. I get it.
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What does it take to have a crush on Alise Mills? Sorry, I could not resist.
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LMFAO! NOT MUCH. SHE’S HIGHLY IN CRUSHABLE…LOL!
Actually, I speak to Alise often enough. She’s really come into her own as a pundit and is drawing fire from buffoons like Sandy Garossino; Joel Solomon’s new Goebels.
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Sure Mr. Occupy. Did you know the BCNDP under Adrian Dix have endorsed Occupy and I’m one of the only two guys talking about this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pWZBO12PE-o&feature=share&list=UUXEBEBMnWBCg2o_aPHrKEPw
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The in-fighting in the B.C. Conservative Party is perfectly normal for any party in the making. And John Cummins or anyone else involved is no more bigoted than is yourself, -or Seymour Forest. (With a name like that we cant see the forest for the trees) Why are you hiding, or what are you hiding?
This is the bloody crossroads where politics and religion meet. My biggest problem with most clerics (protestant/Catholic or secular or other) is that they are far, far too left on the political spectrum, for my liking.
On moral issues I am, in fact, a true believer in the separation of Church and State. As a letter writer in the Spectator suggested, there should be two kinds of marriage – The true spiritual marriage performed by the Church, and the hypocritical and farcical arrangement performed, rather appropriately, by the State. Much stupid behaviour could therefore have been avoided up ’til now. I am convinced that SSM will collapse under the burden of its own inappropriateness. This will become evident to my detractors only with age – barring an attack of commonsense that is uncommon to youth. When all is clarified, we can at least rejoice in the fact that almost mythical hatreds have been alleviated to some extent. That said there are other moral questions (not here mentioned) that will go on forever.
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I will warn you now, that if you’ve arrived to take up the mantle of resident asshole, then you can return from whence you came.
I’m as bigoted as Reed Elley? The great of us, too??? Same-sex marriage is inappropriate???
You know, Larry, a crate of Exlax couldn’t cure your problem…
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Nice flailing. Keep on with the social issues and the BCCP will always be fringe, even Greens get elected more often. Let’s see how far you go with your anti-woman platform in the province that’s dead-last in church attendance.
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Excellent points.
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Flailing?Anti-woman? – Whatever!
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I’ve said it in regards to a close friend, but the people like Larry in that party are why the BCCP will get no number of significance from the moderate voter, especially from any sane female. That reformer rhetoric belongs, well it doesn’t belong anywhere in this day and age, but especially not in this province.
As noted above, the province is not as religious as those people think it is, and the social intolerance that some of the most ardent thumpers spout is a good reason why. This province is a very real middle of the road territory, you can’t take sharp detours off that path if you want long-term viability.
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Complete agreement.
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Geez! OMG! Tabernac!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkPJuJT8iqY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kc5q142NFkA&playnext=1&list=PLF895F1F75C35605F&feature=results_video
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What great way to start my day!!! Bless you!
LOVED IT!!!
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Yes that was really hilarious RS! You really gotta search for that kind of talent, eh, what?
Watched the DNC last night, listened to Obama’s speech and must say, I wasn’t impressed. It did make me think back to the Chicago Democratic Convention of ’68 though; now that was hilarious. I recall William F. Buckley discussing the riots and the anarchy of the convention and the way it was handled by Daly’s police force with Gore Vidal. (recently deceased) Of course, Buckley was appalled by the anarchy, but Vidal said they were a well behaved bunch of youth and then called Buckley a “crypto Nazi”. Buckley parried by calling Vidal a “queer” and threatening to punch him in the face. Now, this was in a time where T.V. at ABC was live and not recorded or delayed, and the producers soon put an end to it by claiming that “time was up!”. It is doubtful that either of them could beat their way out of a wet paper bag, but my money would have been on Bill. After the show, Buckley’s group was met by a group headed up by the actor Paul Newman, who demanded to know why he had used that term to his friend. Buckley asked Newman if he had ever been called a “nazi” before (Newman was Jewish) and Newman said that the term was “political” but what Buckley had called Vidal, was “personal”. So calling someone a Nazi (according to the Hollywood elite) is not personal? To this day I do not purchase anything with Paul Newman’s name on it because his companies are major contributors to Planned Parenthood. Any way, Nixon went on to win the election in a landslide, and those punks who were trying to burn down Chicago will all be voting for Barry in November. Now that’s funny!
About the same time, or maybe a bit later, a feminist was invited to a CWL national convention (Catholic Women’s League) somewhere in the states. (I don’t recall who or where it was) Sometime during her speech, and immediately after saying that (no less than, God) had “used” the Blessed Virgin Mary – Phyllis Schlafly strode out on stage, with cameras rolling and slapped her so hard she almost fell over backward on her highheels! Now I don`t want to sound like a Valley girl, but … it was to die for! Nor do we want to condone violence, but then, some of us bigoted Christians find the violence perpetrated on the most vulnerable of us to be of the worst kind. I tried to find this on the internet, by googling and other devices but methinks the liberal left have been busy trying to expurgate it forever. Just to repeat, I will be voting for the Conservatives in the Spring or Fall or whenever they decide to hold it.
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wow.
first i had the liberals telling me that on an intellectual level they knew better than me about the HST, and that i was not capable of understanding why it was good for me… what a bunch of idiots.
now i have some conservative religous whack job telling me he knows better than me on a moral level, and that if i dont beleive blindly in how he interprets Christs teachings i am just not capable of understanding.
and you wonder why the NDP are ahead in the polls guys?
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Sounds kind of strained. Sorry, but there it is. I never understood what politics had to do with religion and am a firm believer in separtating the two (as well as separating sentiments best left in 1950) . I listened to the speches and have to say Biden sounded the best out of all of them. This however is definately not an endorsement. Both Romney and Obama are so incompetent. Given that, I do believe that the BCCP needs a new leader. Cummins will do OK as an Advisor or Deputy Premier but the BCCP needs a new leader that actually acts like the next leader of BC and not a church group. As for our premier, her demands if anything sound even MORE bigoted than Eley or any of the BCCP religious right. The premier just keeps going, even after her MLA’s are jumping ship so fast that it is almost comical.
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Actually, I found Cardinal Doyle’s speech the best, (and I noticed most of the heads bent in prayer, were of Blacks) and as is befitting and typical and to be expected, the major networks in the country did not carry it.
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Jesus’ brother Bob Larry! In the year of our Lord, 1968, I was still running around in short pants exploring the natural world searching for salamanders and snakes, tadpoles and frogs, crayfish, turtles ‘n’ such, and learning to identify as much of the flora ‘n’ fauna encountered from day to day and season to season. Much time was spent swimming and fishing in rivers and lakes, building forts in the woods, plinking cans with BB and pellet guns, playing shinny on frozen ponds, backyard rinks and minor hockey every Saturday morning. My preadolescent world had not yet been sullied by the political shenanigans and power brokering north or south of the 49th, but hey, thanks for for the history lesson.
Geeze Larry, you must be old enough to know better.
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I am so ridiculously old, that I remember when women were demure! It is not my fault that you were still shitting yellow. I did the same things you did, just years earlier. “The world must remain an oyster for youth to open. If not, youth will cease to be youth, and that will be the end of everything.” John Buchan – Lord Tweedsmuir.
“When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood and thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things” St. Paul.
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There you go showing your age again Larry. Demure? Really?! I don’t think even Mrs. Schlafly would cotton to that distinction.
As for apportioning blame for the tawny hue of my shite way back when — you really ought to lighten up a little Larry. Levity Larry.
“Nothing like a little judicious levity.” Robert Lewis Stevenson
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Actually, that’s Robert Louis Stevenson (unless he had a Jewish namesake) and he is purported to have said: “Old or young, we are all on our last cruise.”
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Oy vey! How could I?
“unless he had a Jewish namesake” Now there’s a bit of levity Larry.
Smooth sailing ol’ boy.
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Did you read the article in the Georgia Straight about some “Tycoons” trying to get Stockwell Day to run for leadership of the BC Conservative Party?
This rumour is being spread by Gordon “Flip” Wilson. We all know he is a complete nut and so is his wife. But you never know.
My sources have never heard any talk of this. Have yours?
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Gordon Wilson is totally delusional and is still milking his lucky five seconds against Rita Johnston and Mike Harcourt. He’s really delusional. There is NO ONE wanting Day. Not any of the money players, many of whom are personal friends of mine.
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Wat? He is? Heavens to Murgatroyed! That was what? Hmmm.. One two three four… five.. Egads! Twenty one years ago! Had his own party, Democratic Alliance, even.. He didn’t score with it…
..but he did with Judy Tyjabi haw haw haw..
He crossed the floor to the NDP.. Got a cabinet post, even..
Stockwell Day? (pointing to an official picture of him). Could work for
Bombardier. Sell Sea Doos..
Exit.. stage right…
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Bombardier spun off Sea-Doo, Ski-Doo and Can-Am. They are now called Bombardier Recreational Products but are mostly called BRP to differentiate themselves from the old parent company. They were sold to “outside intersets”. This is what happened to some of our subsidy dollars. No way that BRP would actually pay “super stock”. Just not a good product endorsement.
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Saw that. Also of note is the NDP’s bungled idea to build Bombardier LRT cars here (if anyone has taken the Skytrain, the large glass building after the Sytrain yard towards 22nd St. Station is the former Bombardier assembly facility. The various components would arrive there be put together tested (there was a spur track from that facility to the Skytrain yard but the rails and ties were taken out) and sent off to U.S. and foriegn markets. It was used to complete trains for the M-Line but was never able to get off the ground with U.S. and offshore
trains.
The large building is mostly used for movie filming.
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Here’s Carlito Pablo’s ;’Tycoons eye Stockwell Day for B.C. Conservative Leadership’ Georgia Straight article for context.
http://www.straight.com/article-771046/vancouver/tycoons-eye-stockwell-day
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A discredited news source quoting a discredited hasbeen. Wow, such context…
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Whatever.
Linking to original source material is a sign of …
I’m not sure of the word I’m looking for, but it makes this blog better – which, despite our disagreements, we both want.
Even if it is a “discredited news source quoting a discredited hasbeen”.
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Inciteful or insightful?
http://columberta.blogspot.ca/2012/09/polls-and-floor-crossings.html
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Extremely insightful.
Nice to see Ryan coming around to my contention that the BC Liberals won’t break a half dozen or so seats with Christy as leader. And that the BC Conservatives must remove Cummins and purge the God Squad from the agenda.
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Thank-you.
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You’re most welcome.
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I don’t believe van Dongen could significantly change the direction or fortunes of the BCCP any more than a new Liberal leader could. In order to maintain integrity, he should run as an independent, just to see how well he is (or isn’t) thought of.
In fact, I think there is a real opportunity for a number of, credible, fresh thinking, independents to make the Legislature this time around and that raises a new thought; if there were more independents elected than Libs or Cons could those independents form the “official” opposition?
A small aside here, since you mentioned CC and Bill Good in the same sentence. On Tuesday as he was closing his show and was trying to defend himself he stated he had “done a good job, the past year or two, of challenging Christy Clark.”
Year or two? Um, Bill, your memory is shot.
I was also thinking what fun it would be if you had a 15 second promo of your blog during a Bill Good Liberal love-in segment. I think your readers would gladly donate to that entertainment.
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Too funny. I have a new relationship with NW and I’ve never found Bill personally problematic. But when he says he challenged Christy (I heard it as well) I wonder what he’s talking about.
BTW, the new ratings are out (BBM).
CKNW has a dismal rating of 9.0, behind CHQM and CBC.
Surprising. I thought by adding great talent like Simi, Bob and Dave, that it would make a difference.
Apparently not. At least not for now.
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But Bill Good and Michael Campbell are STILL there
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Michael Campbell used to have a segment called “The Goofy Award” in which he never missed an opportunity to slam the NDP or unions. His silence during these past months on all the goofy goings-on in the Liberal party and the Cons is deafening, especially considering the smorgasbord of topics he has had to draw from.
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Yes…and with the new “cabinet” it’s like machine-gunning fish in a barrel.
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Unfortunately, he still has his goofy award and it’s still exempts BC Libs and Cons. Last week, his sidekick Michael Levy gave it NDP MLA Jagrup Brar for coming back from Cuba and saying some positive things about the place. Levy surmised from that the NDP would turn BC into Cuba North, repeating almost verbatim what the BC Libs said.
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Fair enough. But I know Jagrup and for him to have anything to say about Cuba than the cigars were sweet and the rum sweeter, is asinine.
Cuba is a hell hole and Jagrup is a fool for saying anything positive. There’s nothing positive to offer.
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We here know what they need to do: bring in the Tsakuminator!
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Well then write them and tell them.
I’m available and would be delighted to return to NW.
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Simi could use a co-host in my opinion, she’s enchanting when interacting with the right person, I have a hard time staying tuned when she’s on her own.
The pieces they’re giving Bob to “investigate” have been total snoozefests (Hastings Park, Vancouver Port and such). Set him loose investigating Translink, ICBC or some other money sucking government corporation.
I would have Dave not confine his show to sports only. Let him discuss other topics too. He’d probably have a totally different take on current issues.
Lastly, get rid of Bill and replace him with Mike Smyth. Who cares if he wants to broadcast from Victoria.
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I see Corus Vancouver has a new leader. We will see what happens. Some changes are long overdue.
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hmmmmmm,
Nuking Philip Till’s snorefest would be a no brainer. Instant ratings jump.
Followed by nuking Bill Goods politically correct luke warm pablum. AND his one sided slant on everything Liberal.
Bill should take testoterone shots to reinvigorate his ability to ask hard ball questions of ALL guests. Instead of his verbal ambushing of any callers that dare to critisize his “guests/personal friends”.
Bill Good has been on air far far too long. If upper management cant see the writing on the wall, maybe its time for them to go too……
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I agree with a lot of what you said but Bill does get his back up at times. Like when he talks about global warming and hammers people not agreeing with him.
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If nothing else NW should make its sales staff get out and find some new sponors. I’ve heard ” Capital Direct Dot See Aye” so many times that even I sing along with the jingle. Oh, and those two shouting fools from Maple Ridge Chrysler. They’re enough to make anyone head down to Freindly Freds Used Cars for a chariot!
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you actually think theres any business in this province left that wants to be associated with the liberals propaganda radio station lorne?
business owners are not stupid, they can see the writing on the wall. a large percentage of the public is now convinced (rightfully so) that the liberals have been ripping them off for years. why would anyone with some intelligence want to associate their business with a radio station that schills for that?
i actually go out of my way to make sure i do not do business with anyone who advertise’s on nw. and i suggest others do the same.
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Yes, And it only took 11 years for them to realize it.
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great post alex.
if mr cummins was a true leader who believed in the cause he would do the following.
have only his expenses payed for.
donate his salary back to the party or to mr van dongen’s court cost.
mr cummins needs to embrace a leadership review it goes with being a leader.
if they do not do a review can they keep van dogen as a sitting mla ? will they be able to attract any other mla’s to cross the floor?
this septemer’s bccp convention is the most impetant one in their short history.
they either chooose to change or they will be always be a protest vote, and will slowly drift in to oblvion as a new political party is born.
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Christy may appear to all as the ‘Dummy’ – and she truly is – - but she started learning the lessons around the family dinner table many years ago on how to use politics to get power and influence.
Dont think for a minute that her fight to get her son into St Georges is anything but self serving…..but that wont become clear for quite some time.
As westerners (not Canadian, but globally) we think in ‘short periods of time’ – weeks – months years. The Communist Chinese, not unlike the soul sucking, selfish ‘professional’ politicians (like Christy, Chretien, Mulroney, Trudeau and Gordo) think in ‘long periods of time’ – years – decades – careers.
They will slip and slide, always looking at the end goal, but we cant see it as , we dont think that way. Just like China is 25% of its way through their plan for economic domination, Christy is just 25% of the way through her personal plan (although it issomewhat stalled at the moment – teehee)
It hasnt been pretty and she wishes it were different, but THE DUMMY isnt as stupid as we would like to think.
She and the professional politicians mentioned above remind me of looking into the eyes of a snake. They both sit there, vacant, seemingly uninterested, watching and waiting – and you know – given the chance, they will not only eat you, but eventually, your children to.
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Poignant and compelling.
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Love the movie reference, perhaps she left so quickly because she was scared you might bite?
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You’re the only one who got the last line thus far. Very clever of you, Pollo.
You are devilish, indeed.
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Clever indeed. The lambs are screaming……….for an election!!!!
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1IayQ9MAl4&feature=youtube_gdata_player
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Perfect, Alex, A+
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I know a guy who is a doppleganger ringer of Anthony Hopkins is your truly want to scare the s*** out of the Premier.
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That’s not necessary.
I’m here.
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Hi Alex,
I know you don`t like mixing issues on the comment to blog section, but do you think there is a connection between CC going back to China and the Enbridge thing
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Of course!
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David – Here’s A Big Hint – DHL (Among Others) Will Be In China!
Have A Look At What Bob “The Hammer” Mackin Posted On This – Links Below.
First We Have The Bilderbergers!
Now It’s The World Economic Forum (WEF) – In Davos Switzerland Every January – Now, It’s Tianjin, China In September!
Have A Look At The World Players We’re Being Sold Out To!
And, Look Who The Seller Is!
DHL Appears Here!
Sunday, September 2, 2012
#LiquorLeaks salutes a New Champion (in name only)
http://2010goldrush.blogspot.ca/
If you find this corruption interesting, scroll through Bob Mackin’s web site – you’ll be shocked – for starters:
Friday, August 31, 2012
#LiquorLeaks seeks more from Les
How’s this for a coincidence?
AND
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Launching #LotteryLeaks
You could call it the motherlode.
It’s not often that I receive more than 500 pages of documents via Freedom of Information. But here ’tis.
AND
Thursday, August 23, 2012
#LiquorLeaks – Jay and the 8-Day Delay
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Two more departures – one each from both sides of the house:
Randy Hawes Lib
Gary Coons NDP
http://www.cknw.com/news/vancouver/story.aspx?ID=1769887
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Both good people. Sure losses to both sides.
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Coons had made the decision to leave quite a while ago — I had a conversation with him in the airport BEFORE the change of leadership of the NDP and he mentioned then that he was done and wanted to go back to “normal” life. His true passion is teaching and he said he missed it. It’s really difficult for the MLA’s that live in small or rural areas — they are NEVER private citizens and it is exhausting. Even going out for coffee or a meal with your family is work time.
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Another one gone. Will there be anyone left hat isn’t in their “cabinet”? It really makes me laugh to see the thin talent being employed now as well as the MLA’s jumping overboard.
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I guess The Dummy has given her ringing endorsement to the public education system by putting her own child in private school.
It’s shameful what she’s done to the education system since her first reign of error…even more shameful when our own Premier doesn’t have the confidence in the public system to educate her own child.
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Believe me, I haven’t met a teacher, either in public or private school, that has had anything but the most negative things to say about Christy.
Her attack in teachers knows no bounds.
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Alex: would you say the bulk of the anti-teacher theme comes from Christy… or has there been someone else fanning the flames?
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That’s our darling.
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Considering Crusty Crotch’s father was a teacher, it makes one wonder what hallucinatory imagined event(s) that Crusty is under the impression may have happened at the Crotch household, to make Crusty mindlessly detest teachers so.
Sad sick situation.
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Shell, I’ve got third-hand info… but it can’t be spelled out here.
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Off topic, but scary: Mary Polack is talking about legislation that will make it illegal to be out and about without identification, apparently so that fare evaders on public transport can be charged.
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Kafka meets the Draconian Code.
Absolutely absurd.
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What’s next ? Sending “dissidents” to the “new” prisons?
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All in response to Translink not issuing fines if someone says they dont have ID.
I cant figure out why this would be missed as since Translink has been handing out fines up to now I am sure they heard that excuse before and it should have been on their list.
Pathetic. The whole bunch of them should be fired.
Did you hear the Translink guy that NW called this morning “hemming and hawing” and then saying he didnt understand the question. Didnt an MLA try that earlier this year..
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and of course the number one thing people who find themselves homeless tend to have stolen (or not have) is ID. More of the same disenfranchisement of the most vulnerable in our society.
Homeless or otherwise indigent people get one replacement per lifetime — then they need to find the $ to replace it themselves — which if you’ve ever had your ID stolen – you will know is very expensive to replace
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I could see if the police were wanting to see my I.D. for no obvious reason, but if I am found in the Fare Paid section, without a ticket, I think this is absolutely reasonable. Or maybe you’re with the Democrats who think that it is wrong to ask people for I.D. before casting your vote in elections? It is not like they are pulling you over in your car and making you to give a breath sample for no other reason than to charge you for not being impaired, which is still above .08!
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I think the issue is more than refusing to show ID. That is problematic – but I would guess that the amount of people who don’t show ID because they refuse or are otherwise trying to hide who they are, is very miniscule.
ID’s get stolen all the time in shelters and SRO’s — and you can’t get many services – including food at the food bank – if you don’t have ID.
If I have ID and don’t show it – because I refuse or I forgot it – then sure penalize me. I won’t forget it again.
I worry about those who already can’t get replacements getting fined again and again — they don’t have the funds and never will — what do we do then?
We have a government who loves to say the answer to poverty is a job – but fails to see that we still have all kinds of barriers to jobs that pay enough to pay for basic living.
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The problem isn’t homeless people right now. Just the guy who doesn’t buy a ticket and gets caught and tells them his name is John Doe and he doesn’t have id even though it’s in his back pocket.
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It’s actually the Republicans who are trying to mandate that ID is mandatory to vote in the election.
They say voter fraud is the reason for this. The number of cases of voter fraud in their federal election in the last 20 years: 86.
All it does is stop low income minorities (a lot of them elderly) from voting….people who likely wouldn’t have voted for the Republicans to begin with.
It’s a travesty, and something the MSM should be reporting, but won’t.
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That’s bullshit. And your stat is totally wrong.
Voter fraud in the United States is recorded ONLY after a lengthy court case.
And we know how their courts work.
I’ll get you real stats.
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I was going to say horseshit, but you beat me to it. I don’t usually revert to profanity, but when we have commentators referring to Christine Clark as “Crusty Crotch” if figure it is an improvement!
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You’re “right” Larry – big improvement!
You’ve proven even your pretzel logic can sometimes produce good, if unintended consequences!
Christine Clark = BULLSHITTER!
What an grand improvement on the obvious – way to go!
Maybe you can suggest it as tomorrows Sunday sermon topic to Reverend Cummins?
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Still waiting for the “real stats”.
All I know is that voter fraud is not the giant boogeyman that threatens democracy as the Republicans claim.
It’s barely a mouse in the attic.
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And they are very hard to compile. They way such things is recorded is ridiculous.
Voter fraud is rampant. The Obama team have routinely signed up young blacks in the poorer precincts of larger cities, knowing full well they aren’t credentialed. They did this last election and they’re trying to do it again.
You can think what you like, but cheating has been rampant with the Democrats–much more so than the Republicans.
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I would expect nothing less from Ms. Polack. What is the penalty to be without ID even if a person isn’t taking transit? And what do the police do, take you into custody until you identify yourself. And we complain about the Chinese and human rights. We are becoming more like them than they are like us.
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That’s idiotic. I’m notorious for forgetting my licence at the office.
Don’t ask…
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OK I got carried away a bit.
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But hopefully not your bus pass.
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i guess I have a problem with any “simple” legislation that gives the police more power. Gee the police wouldnt abuse their power….would they?
For example the ” street racing ” legislation that was brought in to combat kids killing themselves and others out on the streets. Great idea.
Now we have the police pulling over any cars that are 20km over the limit and if they dont like your attitude( subserviant, apologetic will do just fine thank you). Bang! Car impounded for a week and you pay the tow and storage fees. Dont believe me? Try cruising down Boundary rd towards Marine dr OR keep up with traffic on Marine…..EVERYONE is speeding…..and the police set up their speed traps to fill their monthly quota ( yeah ,yeah I know they dont have quotas……. which means they shouldnt get in trouble with their superiors for writing zero tickets right?)
Anyway, new laws of search and arrest just create more situations that police can push the boundaries of a good idea and turn it into a position of abuse.
Thats my rant. Cue outraged police lovers.
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A peace officer (and Translink Cops are peace officers) has always had the power to ascertain your identity. While you have the right to not say anything to incriminate yourself, you are required to provide your name and date of birth to a peace officer. If necessary, they can arrest and fingerprint you etc. to ascertain your identity, all while you maintain your charter right to non self incrimination. You would have to be a complete jerk before it makes it worth their time to do that and they would need to have good reason, like failing to provide a valid ticket in a fair paid zone + also being an asshole.
One allways has the freedom to choose to cooperate or to wig out about what they erroneously believe to be their rights (and refusing to provide name and date of birth is NOT a right under out charter, that is called obstruction of justice) and end up spending the night in jail cuddled up with a DES drug pusher. Me, I would just cooperate and be home for dinner with the family. All hypothetical in my case because I pay the fare, thus making this silly argument and ridiculous comparison to totalitarian regimes moot.
Don’t get me wrong, I remain a passionate opponent of the BC Lib’s but people need to pay their fare.
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Wow!
“…You would have to be a complete jerk before it makes it worth their time to do that and they would need to have good reason, like failing to provide a valid ticket in a fair paid zone + also being an asshole…”
So, “probable cause” has come to this has it?
Be a jerk/asshole, as arbitrarily defined by the whim of any particular officer at any random incident of his/her choice, and that equals probable cause.
Have I got that right?
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Complete agreement, except one thing.
I’d just pay the fare and be able to get where I was going.
So a question would be, if I and others have to pay out for the fare, why should some smart ass jerk be able to ride for free?
Too many amateur lawyers out there figure they have everything down when it comes to the law.
As far as that part of street racing an speed limits go, why would anyone just “cruise” down Boundary to Marine Drive? Its a steep hill
and going fast isn’t the best way to go, unless you lose your brakes.
Me I just keep to the right hand lane, and to no more than +5 km/h the speed limit and keep the speed under control. Saves wear and tear on the vehicle but if “nonconfidencevote” wants to drive as if in Need for Speed, his choice. Unfortunately the fire deparment boys don’t have the choice in whether to hose off what’s left of him off of Marine Drive or pul out that body from twisted wreckage.
I’ve driven Marine Drive at the speed limit or no more than +5 km/h of it many times. Never a ticket. None. Got to where I wanted to be ahead of time. It’s all in the timing and knowning how long to get there and ajdusting travel time for the of day and traffic.
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Correct me if I’m wrong, but honorariums are tax free, similar to an out of pocket expense?
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I believe that’s correct.
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Canada
In Canada, honoraria are considered as salary and thus, taxable income under the Income Tax Act.[5][6] In the case where a gift is substituted for honorarium (gift in lieu of money), it is still classified as a taxable benefit by Canada Revenue Agency.[5]
In cases where an honorarium is paid to an individual who is not a resident of Canada, the honorarium is still subjected to income tax withholding (usually 15%) unless prior approval was obtained from Revenue Canada.[7]
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Jeezuz H Cummins, what’ll the Fibs do next?
….sorry, couldn’t resist…
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Mary Polack’s intentions are draconian :
What does fare evading to do with lack of identification.
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sounds like Polack is getting in lock step with vic & steve & that whole mind set.
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Forgot to mention, Siebring is joined on North Cowichan council by resident wingnut John Koury (a perrenial Con MP wannabee) whose main attribute is that he makes Big Al look somewhat rationale. Oh ya, and did I mention that this dynamic duo live in the same municipality as Elley? Must be something in the water…
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Don’t paint all of us from this riding with the same brush,
take note he has never been elected in this riding
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I live in the riding and know Koury personally. He would run for election as dogcatcher if we elected that position. His campaign manager in the last federal election was none other than Elley (the Reformer).
And Alex, take note that the gerrymandering has begun in this riding. An attempt to hive off traditional NDP supporters (Lake Cowichan and surroundings) into one throw away riding (Nanaimo) and then suck in CPC support from southern areas such as Sooke and Mechosin where Keith Martin was elected as a Reform candidate.
How do I know that it’s gerrymandering? Because Koury is enthusiastically in favour of the proposed revised electoral boundaries.
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I hate to use a biblical reference, but the one who turned Christ in, Judas Iscariot, did so with a kiss at night in a garden. Just sayin’
But, hey, what is really getting lost here in all the excitement over the second run of Jesus Christ Superstar, set to run at The Langley Events Centre Sept 21-22, is this little gem buried in VP’s column.
“Nor could Besler resist a passing shot at Cummins regarding the party’s only elected member of the legislature, B.C. Liberal defector John van Dongen. While the party leader feathers his own nest, van Dongen “is putting up his own money to fight the BC Rail case.”"
Read more: http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Then+again+even+Jesus+difficulty+getting/7211591/story.html#ixzz25tAMJUY7
Monday, September 10, current BCCP MLA John Van Dongen will attend as an intervenor for the public good and on behalf of the public’s right to know how and why their tax dollars went to pay $6 million for Basi – Virk legal fees.
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Vandongen is a bloody hero.
Name ONE other public servant to do this. Just one.
He deserves the Order of BC just for that.
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I agree with the sentiment, but the Order of BC has been tarnished by its unseemly and hasty award to one Gordon Campbell. Despite visiting the BC Rail travesty on the people of BC he still received the award.
It is precisely because Mr. van Dongen is taking his admiral actions that he will not receive the award. Given some of the past recipients he would share the honor with, and the notable absences on the list, Mr. van Dongen would be well rid of it.
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…and Ken Dobell, and Patrick Kinsella, as well as members of the community who coincidentally gave large sums of money to the BC Liberal party.
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Oh please. Mr. van Dongen is using his “own” money to fight the BC Rail issue. Right his own money, you mean the money that he has earned in the last 9 years sittlng as an MLA. The money that we paid him to do be a leader that represents the best interest of British Columbians. The money he was paid while sitting with the party leader that lied about BC Rail and the HST. Right.
van Dongen is NOT a hero or a saviour. He was complicit in all of it by sitting as an MLA for ALL of it. He is one of “them”.
Has he said – sorry? Did he admit to sitting and doing NOTHING to stop Gordon Campbell in the last nine years?
That’s great that he is working the angles in an issue that is important to you Alex. (Yes its super important to the rest of us too btw, I get that). He is one of them and that will be quite evident when election time comes. Unless of course he does his own polling and decides to resign and “spend time with his family” while living of his government pension.
He has given himself the beginings of the perfect out. I can’t represent John Cummins, I don’t agree with his leadership and principals and this has also made me think more deeply about running as an MLA again.
Please save it. Every single Liberal MLA must be defeated. Every one. They have forfeted their right to lead by their corruption which they have committed directly or vicariously by standing by while the majority of others in thier party do it.
The NDP is going to help destroy the province and the Conservative party is self destructing. So who should you vote for? I don’t know but DO NOT vote for the lessor of two evils, that only results in evil – slower.
jb
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(1) John vanDongen’s money is what he EARNED as an MLA. The money he’s using to fund this will far exceed a few years salary. Know anyone willing to do that on your behalf while you’re busy being an ungrateful jerk? Name one other politician willing to honour you like that. Just one, please.
(2) The real details of the sale were manipulated when being delivered to caucus, to make it seem like all the foaming was simply dissidents and socialists. Well, I’m neither. The information I released only started in 2010. Previous to that, I’ve written several times about BC Rail, with a skeptic lens, but never able to prove anything until I had documents. vanDongen was even more in the dark than the rest of us. But as soon as he got educated about what happened, he used money from his own pocket to find out what happen. He’s doing it on your behalf, but because you hate him–for whatever the reasons, you’re content to play happy asshole instead of being grateful. Of course, this makes perfect sense. What was I thinking…?
(3) How is someone complicit when they didn’t know and couldn’t receive any of the pertinent information they needed to make a reasonable decision. When he did, he didn’t hesitate.
(4) The rest of your comment is unworthy of a response.
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…and in other related ironies, Christy Clark has decided that the man who bent the rules to pay out the $6 M collar of silence, Mike De Jong, should be finance minister. I suppose she won’t have to account for expensing spa sessions with Pammy.
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Actually. You just wait…that may end up being absolutely perfect…
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Alex you are a HERO to the people of BC. Without you we would all be in the dark right where those bastards want us.
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Way too kind.
I’m just doing my thing, pal. I’m a mere scribbler. No one reads me…
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The Queen of Pink has gone to China to be among the New Champions, days after becoming part of the Saints family. She’s collecting a lot of T-shirts to add to her resume.
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christy must be glad that you have been” scribbling” about the quebec elections and that foolish excuse of a man cummins and not her. although she is probably asking pammy when is he gonna unload on me again pammy and why can’t you stop him, bwaaaa, bwaaa ,cry, snivel. poor me i am such an asshole i mean i am such a victim .i have never done anything wrong(except meet lobbists at the heliport for casual conversation haha) it’s every one else not me ,not me , not me .
YES IT IS YOU now piss off you crazy wanker and leave the real work to those who can do it. not photo op idiots,like you, in front of your childs school. no shame double park cuz you can and make sure everyone see’s you. the poor boy will probably need counselling later in life.
as always great “scribbling ” . if only our elected officcals could be half as eloquent.
keep it up ALEX and have a good weeekend
Cheers
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I will continue to apply the pressure. But I’ll wait til she gets back.
Dont want her escaping the detonation radius.
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OK Alex, summer is officially over on Saturday September 22nd at 07:49 am.
Am I going to have to pay off on my bet that our Premier will have resigned in the summer of 2012?
Am I going to have to go without my favorite ale for a month?
Please tell me it isn’t so! I was so sure it was going to happen and that there was no way she’d stick around.
I was so looking forward to seeing her give the old double peace sign high over her head.
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She left for China.
Wait til she’s back.
I have a gift for her. So do some very influential powerbrokers.
She’s done, if her replacement agrees. If he does; she’s got anywhere from 48 to 72 hours otherwise the government will fall. Guaranteed.
You have no idea the number of people who have turned on her.
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I will repeat myself from a post I made quite some time ago.
“Unqualified…….unelected……..untruthful.”
Not a formula for success.
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Christy Clark on 16 by 9 tonight, International Education and Douglas College in China. Education? What education? No further comment necessary!
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Of course. All part of her personal scrapbook. It’s just so astonishing that anyone could be such a fake at taxpayers’ expense send have the audacity to wonder what all the talk and commotion is about. She’s ‘The Dummy.’ So utterly stupid and self absorbed that she thinks we’re all wrong and she’s the line one who’s right.
It’s truly unbelievable.
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Thanks for this information about the 16×9 program I found it was most interesting. I wonder if Christy will be granted a PhD on her trip to China? PhD as in: piled higher and deeper!
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Please help me on this one, Alex. No where have I heard or read that our beloved Premier is once again off to China,and I watch for such things very carefully. If so, did she give a reason for the trip? Did she take Sarah the Gumsnapper and dear Pammy with her…..at taxpayers expense? Or, is this all just wishful thinking that they would all go to China and never come back?
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She’s on her way, it’s true.
And with a full compliment of staff.
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A “Farewell To China” Tour par chance?
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The only thing that outrages me more than Clark’s taxpayer funded “waltz around China with the unnecessary entourage.
Is the looming expense of her permanant dismissal from her leadership role. Either through a palace purge or an election in 6 months.
How many “Cling Ons” ( or is that Klingons?). Will be fired in the days and weeks after her removal? 5 people? 10 ? 20?
And the cost for severance ! All these staff should recieve 2 weeks notice and then termination. Nothing more. Or, better yet. Keep them and make them WORK !
Seeing Pamelas’ broken finger nails from typing ” I will not talk to anyone” 10,000 times would be worth it…….
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To dream, per chance to live…
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Apparently the Premier next door has already spent close to $300,000 in flights abroad; perhaps Christy wants to look as important as her.
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Lorne, please see what I posted earlier today – especially important is the Bob Mackin link I included – it will explain why Christy has gone to China – DHL!!!!!
See: “Shell says:
September 7, 2012 at 10:45 PM”
Big Hint – DHL (Among Others) Will Be In China!
Why is this important?
Thoroughly review what Bob Mackin has written, and you’ll see that this is a public assets fire sale of B.C. Liquor et al, by those who have no right to sell them – and they are doing this in a foriegn country!
Frankly, I don’t understand why this very important subject has gotten so little traction among otherwise very well informed AGT readers.
Pat Kinsella and Rich Coleman must be laughing their asses off!
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“I have a gift for her.” Is that the same as “I have somehing much bigger on the way.”? (ref. June 26th @ 9:48) Or are these two separate issues?
By the way, when will she be back? I wasn’t aware she’d left, but then I don’t subscribe to the MSM. Last I heard she was sending the ‘A’ team on a half hour junket to Edmonton.
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I can’t tell you. You’ll have to wait and see. Timing is EVERYTHING.
And when you see the story, you’ll understand why.
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OooooKay! I guess.
Whatabout ‘When she’s coming back’?
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re: translink…. the police can only require a person to identify themselves
(other than when operating a motor vehicle or in a licensed premise to check age ) if they have been observed committing an offence. Refusing to do so then becomes an obstruction charge under the criminal code and a person is subject to arrest. The police do not have the right to request persons for ID at random.
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Too simple bubbles. The translink police have the right to require that a person on the system produce a valid paid fare receipt. If that person is unable or unwilling to do so, they have prima facie committed an offence. Therefore, in the course of investigating an offence, the police have the right to demand ID.
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Alex, Good article in the Globe and mail today. Pretty much sums up Clark,s situation. I think Mason has it spot on. Not that you haven’t said the same thing many times. Maybe the MSM are waking up big time.
Again great stuff. Enjoy your blog along with the comments, good and bad. Enjoy the sunshine. Last i heard her sprog, (child) wasn’t accepted at SGS. What did she do throw some tax payer money at it. But I can’t really fault her on wanting the best for her son though. And from all reports it is the best school around. I even read a Blogger who went there. cheers.
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I am no longer going to comment on Hamish’s acceptance journey or the school. She did what she did and a ton a people aren’t happy about it. But that’s Christy’s way…
Yes, I’m a St. George’s School graduate. Class of ’84. It is indeed the finest education a boy can get.
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Except of course at Eric Hamber Secondary School…
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If I have being attention to the movies I have seen that included security details, and I have, the scenario that you described is exactly what the security detail would do, and insist on doing.
FYI:
1) Innocent looking situations are the most dangerous – Guarding Tess.
2) Don’t box in your escape vehicle (on the double parking) – Rockford Files and some episodes of Hawaii Five-O.
In every case when the politician (and in some cases the hooker) was advised not to do something, they insisted on doing it.
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3) Always know where you are (Adam-12)
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I’m reading about this Security Detail for CC with fascination and amazement.
CC brings her Security Detail with her to her son’s school? Hmmm…
I guess what surprises me is to learn that her son’s private school has it’s own security. Is he/she in place because of CC?
I did a quick check on the internet and it looks to me like SGS is the only private school in the Lower Mainland with it’s own security. Hmmm…
Alex, have you seen the SGS security? Is this fact or fiction? As a parent/alum, how do you feel about this if he/she does exist?
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I’ve actually supported security detail at Saints for a long time. Very prominent business people that send their sons ther have had threats against their children and families for quite some time.
I had a stalker three years ago, after I wrote a post on native aboriginal corruption, and was forced to hire security at both my daughters’ school and my son’s. I was worried about the other kids, too.
No, I’m a strong advocate of keeping these kids safe and Saints is to be commended for doing this. By the way, it has nothing to do with her son attending the school, it’s been in the works for a long time. And Saints isn’t the only school with security.
And it’s important. Security detail is omnipresent at both Saints’ campuses. 24 hrs a day, seven days a week.
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Looks to me like it’s going to take divine intervention for BC to once again achieve worldclass leading status.
If only God was one of us, campaigning throughout BC on a bus.
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The 14 Hastings.
But only from Victoria to Abbott Street.
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I completely agree that Translink fare dead beats shouldn’t have to show ID. Just book the fare evasion ticket to the NDP.
Of course, Comrade Dix is an exception … he should be grandfathered in.
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You mean, Brother Dix?
This insane imbecile called the future Premier “Brother Dix” almost a frozen times during his one hour disgrace of an address at the last BC NDP convention.
This is how they lie and watch the last line of pure drivel and alarmism? Instead of honouring Carole James, who had just stepped down for the good of the party, they brought this insane man in to thoroughly lie for a full hour about everything from climate change alarmism to social justice.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OdbLxM3ecxM&feature=youtube_gdata_player
You trying to tell us something, Adrian?
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B.C. Once Again To Achieve WORLD CRASS Status??!!!
Where do they find these wannabe political statesmen?
First it was Gordacio, then Crusty Crotch, now it’s Comrade No-Tix Dix!
Who’s next ?
Are we going to import and elect rumored lawyer and reputed cannibal, Comrade Van Jones?
We could move the B.C. Capital to Vancouver City Hall, declare it a city state, get rid of Mayor Moonbeam, and rename the whole province –
“World Crass Van Jones Shitty!”
Why the hell do B.C. voters tolerate such horrible, incompetent, corrupt governance?
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“Brother Dix”………. oh brother.
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I like Adrian on a personal level. He’s a good man from a fine family. But his beliefs on some matters, particularly Occupy and climate change, are downright frightening.
And having an avowed Communist, who was kicked out of the White house for being too left wing, come to speak at the NDP Convention??? This is insanity, pure and simple.
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I am getting tired of hearing the left toss around the phrase “social justice” as if it’s a term that shows how caring they are. Basically “social justice” does not define a moral cause; it is leftwing code for spreading the wealth and going after the middle class. Most of them are too scared to admit it so code words do the trick.
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I always thought that “brother” was the more familiar term for “comrade”.
We should ask some of your readers – if you meet a communist for for the first time, do you call him brother or comrade?
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Brother. Comrade is for formal events like St. Stalin’s Day or the Castro Wankers Festival.
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Offtopic 1 pm to 330 pm
Lunch today overlooking bc place and no open roof on the best day of year bc lions to have open 300 million white elephant.?
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You got it.
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Proposed title for your little gift posting to celebrate “Dummy’s” return:
“Crusty Crotch, Queen Of The Pink Taco, Goes To Red China To Make Unauthorised Fire Sale Of Our Kingdom – Returns To Well-Deserved AGT Black & Blue Whipping!”
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911 is coming up.
Alex you should do a small piece on the inside job called 911 that has destroyed countless lives and imprisoned us in our own country based on an inside job. I have listened to hundreds of hours of of experts. Watched countless videos. There is no way this was done by guys from Saudi……I bet my life on it….
But ole bill and jessica will line up all the “my brother was killed” in the que for a whole 11 minutes on Tuesday.
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Listen, I enjoy your comments, but now you’ve lost me–and for good.
ANYONE who believes 9/11 was an inside job needs to have his or her head examined for any proof of an intellect. The conspiracy theories have been debunked time and again.
Do you understand what kind of insanity you’re peddling. Such an operation would require the complicity of at least 10,000 people. You can’t keep a secret between your neighbour humping the town baker’s wife and you honestly don’t have enough gray matter to think that NO ONE has ever come forward to say anything? They were all bought off, were they? Or, lemme guess, they were all murdered, right?
Geezus Murphy…get a grip. Honestly…
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Have to agree the truthers have to be psychopaths.
So people were going up and down the WTC for a couple of months sticking explosives into the building’s structure and no one saw anything?? And if they did, no one asked what’s that guy doing with a stick of dynamite under his arm.
Or the allegation that the Pentagon was hit by a cruise missile because there were no wing marks on entry. Who said there should be? When was the last time a 767 flew into the side of a building at 200 MPH? It’s incredible these wackos would believe this garbage.
The only thing i would believe is that the fourth plane was possibly shot down because by that time everyone knew what was going on. If it did happen though I am not sure I would want that information ever made public.
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PRECISELY RIGHT!!!
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Any more feedback from the front lines of the BCCP BOD meeting in Voctoria on Saturday Alex ?
Of course, the king of froth, well, he was in overdrive:
http://www.news1130.com/news/local/article/399590–bc-conservatives-united-says-party-member
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Siebring is a complete buffoon. HE has no idea what’s coming.
But I do, and tomorrow I’m going to put it into a post.
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See where our enlightened mayor is now setting up huge inflated bags (called Pop Rocks) in the middle of city streets in order to impede traffic and allow idiots to lounge about on! And they call this a world-class city?
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Well put–very! The man is a menace. His eco-Nazis have transformed Vancouver into a joke.
But they won’t be going for very long.
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The Mayor’s despoliation of roadways and byways, viaducts and etc., that were created at great effort and expense for the ease of the movement of taxpayers and services can only be described as treasonous. He doesn’t want “suburbanites” coming into his city.
Remember that the next time the bridge and tunnel crowd want to escape the filth and crime and heat of the city, or to escape some massive tragedy or emergency – then shut down all the escape routes!
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Complete agreement…
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I don’t get why c.c. is going to China, with a full compliment of staff yet. If she is on such good terms with stevie, why didn’t she get him to deal with our interests/issues while he was at the conferance in Russia. The news advised he had a 1/2 hr. with the premier of china, so it doesn’t make sense to me, especially given the debt we are in. Oh, of course she doesn’t count. her debt is good debt, it helps the economy. What a waste of time & money, but a great vacation.
Just how is this trip going to get the hospitals clean & not have B.C. have the highest rate of child poverty in Canada for 8 consecutive yrs?
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Your objections to the trip are noted and appreciated, but your comments about her relationship with the Prime Minister are not only inaccurate, they’re ridiculously so.
1) The PMO is under strict orders–NO MORE NICETIES FOR CHRISTY CLARK. It’s got nothing to do with the absurd position on the pipeline, it’s her dismal performance generally that has made her toxic. As one person very close to the Prime Minister put it to me late last week: “She’s totally radioactive. I know Liberals on the Hill who will never trust her again. What a farce! She’s made a bigger mess than Gordon–and that’s saying something.”
2) She tried to get into the annual Tory shindig at the St. Germain ranch recently and her people were specifically told she wasn’t welcome as it was strictly a party event. The order came down directly from the PMO that she was to be rebuffed. She wasn’t welcome–period.
3) Since when would a siting PM be doing the specific bidding of any province? This contravenes convention and code. All sorts of Legal issue abound, too.
4) There are currently several prominent federal Conservatives (and fair-minded federal Liberals–yes, they exist) who are pushing for her IMMEDIATE REMOVAL. All sorts of candidates are being vetted as we speak.
Her days are truly numbered.
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Going to a fair meant that politics was one of the last things on my mind. That was prior to talking to Tom Birch from the BC Conservatives, Steve Gunner from the BC NDP and people at the anti-smart meters bench. Seeing all this and…nothing from the BC Liberals. Nothing, no presence, absolutely nothing. To my mind this is a fairly strange bell-weather event but there it is. Having a talk with all these people I was convinced that the Liberals are a dying breed. This has more or less been confirmed in Ontario as well with two by-election losses. The Liberal brand is in full retreat mode and the next election in BC promises more of the same. The desperate act of replacing the better (retiring)MLA’s and replaced them with either unproven MLA’s or ones that have zero credibility. I have heard such “luminaries” as Vaughn Palmer (No one listens to Vaughn Palmer do they?) or Sean *conflict of interest” Leslie and I’m left with the conclusion that none of these men knows truly what the average British Columbian is thinking. Some will call this beyond belief and will point to it being sp informal. In my mind that is what makes it so valuable (and so telling). From my perspective, the Liberals are going to be lucky to outpace the Green Party or the Marijuana Party never mind the NDP or the Conservatives.
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Tom Birch is a really good guy.
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Both him and Steve are. It’s always a pleasure talking to them.
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