The report was delivered at the Annual General Meeting of the Rocky Rural Electrification Association meeting in Leslieville, Alberta on Thursday, April 9, 2009.
I would like to extend a warm welcome to all that have joined us here this evening. Our Chairman, auditor and guest speakers are sharing a significant amount of information within their reports. To avoid duplication, I will limit this report to my first impressions of the Rocky REA, a brief summary of 2008 operations and some of the major challenges facing us in the future.
First Impressions
Being the new guy on the block, I would like to provide my initial impressions of working within a local cooperative.
What I have discovered is a tremendous set of advantages.
Firstly, the most obvious one is that REA’s operate on a cost basis. Investor owned power companies must produce a profit margin for shareholders. On the other hand, the Rocky REA provides safe and efficient service for its members at rates that recover current year operating costs and set aside funds for capital replacement and growth, without the additional burden of a profit margin. This enables us to provide you, the member/owners of the REA with very competitive rates for high quality service.
Secondly, the Rocky REA operates solely in the local area. We do not support a head office outside of the REA boundaries. Our employees live and work here. In so doing, they contribute to the support of the local community and economy. In addition, a significant portion of the REA goods and services budget is spent in the local economy.
Thirdly, the board of directors and many of the employees are REA members, which automatically gives them a vested and personal interest in the success of the organization. In contrast, large investor owned power companies spend much time and resources attempting to create a sense of ownership in their employees in order to enhance performance. REA’s do not have to create a sense of ownership; the people that serve this organization in most cases are member/owners.
Fourthly, the greater network of REA’s in Alberta is also cooperative in nature. The Rocky REA is a member of the Alberta Federation of REA’s that represents the interests of REA members throughout the province. The head of this excellent organization is our own Merv Rockel, a director of Rocky REA and a leader at the provincial level.
The final observation I will make about the REA structure concerns the cooperation between individual REA’s. Investor owned power companies will do their best to conceal information from each other in an attempt to gain the upper hand, force the competition out and ultimately “corner the market”. In the REA world, there exists a spirit of cooperation and mutual preservation. Trust is established, information is shared and multiple REA’s benefit from the sharing of cost saving measures, improvements to operational methods and even in the recruitment of personnel.
2008 Operational Summary
Much of the 2008 operational results have been addressed in Chairman Earl Graham’s report.
However, further items of note include the following:
1.reduction in the construction of new member services as the economic downturn found its way into our area
2.focus on activities such as pole replacement, pole testing, breaker box upgrades, poles in-line for non members and high load escorts
3.great progress in the development of our internal vegetation management activities as we have moved away from sub-contracting this work
4.completion of a new consolidated Compliance Plan with subsequent approval from the Market Surveillance Administrator. This plan demonstrates our compliance with provincial regulations requiring that our members have customer choice regarding retail energy options.
5.continued strong financial results; these will be presented by our Auditor this evening. Suffice it to say that we have achieved an excellent cash position at a time when the watchwords in the press include such phrases as “financial crisis”, “credit crisis” and “liquidity concerns”. As you will see, the Rocky REA has been able to handle current year operational expenses while retaining earnings that will be required for future capital replacement and growth and provide a hedge against the uncertainty surrounding future operational costs.
Future Challenges
1.Uncertainty in Electricity Market Prices
The majority of power produced in Alberta comes from coal powered generators. The impact of carbon taxes and the cost of sequestering carbon may lead to higher electricity rates in the future. Your REA will continue to keep watch over future hedge prices to ensure that long term costs are kept within reasonable limits.
2.Safeguarding the REA Distribution System
Remote as it may seem, should we experience a natural disaster such as a forest fire or extreme storm that incurs damage to the majority of our distribution system, the REA would be faced with extremely large replacement costs.
To mitigate the possibility of fire damage we carry out a systematic program of controlling the build up of vegetation in the proximity of the system.
In addition we maintain a Deposit Reserve specifically for the purpose of capital replacement and maintenance of the distribution system.
3.Succession Planning
Like nearly every industry today, the electricity industry faces the future problem of replacing many employees that were born in the baby boomer generation (1946 – 1964). The Rocky REA will not be exempt from the far reaching impact of the retirement of this generation of workers and board members as well.
Strategic planning in this area has become essential to ensure the long term viability of the organization.
In conclusion, I would like to extend my thanks to the staff and board of directors for the support I have received in this challenging position. As indicated earlier, every person in this organization takes a personal stake in the overall success of the Rocky REA and that has been particularly evident in the assistance I have received. I am very pleased to be associated with this team.
Respectfully submitted,
Jerry Reglin B.Mgt., CMA
General Manager
Friday, April 10, 2009
Monday, April 6, 2009
Democracy Now Newscast
Democracy Now is a grass roots American media network.
(The flip side of Fox News)
Pen Meets Paper April 6 '09
Pen Meets Paper
Opinion by Helge Nome
At this time the subject of Bill 19 is popping up all over Alberta and a public meeting is planned for 7:30pm at the Leslieville Elks Hall this Wednesday, April 8. Another one is planned for Innisfail on the same night, where Infrastructure Minister Jack Hayden is supposed to be present. I have been involved in organizing the Leslieville meeting and invited Ty Lund to come along. Unfortunately he is unable to attend due to a prior personal engagement in Edmonton on Wednesday. However, I did have a telephone conversation with him on the subject of Bill 19.
From the government perspective, if I got it right, the bill (called “Land Assembly Area Project Act”) is supposed to give land owners a “heads up” on proposed developments that will affect their lands. Ring roads around cities have been mentioned.
That is meant to be an improvement on the current situation where land can be purchased or expropriated by the government without any forewarning. But is it? The bill, as it stands (check it out for yourself on the internet), basically says that the Lieutenant Governor in Council can do exactly what he pleases and, on top of it all, make regulations to please himself even more, as he sees fit, to deal with particular situations that may crop up. And those regulations don't exist at this time when the bill is before the legislature. It is like writing a blank cheque and signing it!
The other thing that is troubling is that once a “Land Assembly Area” has been declared, people whose lands are included in that designation are left in limbo and have rules imposed on them as to what they can do with their lands.
After all the fuss about the bill, the Government has now proposed amendments designed to address peoples' concerns (a summary of which can be found on http://helgenome.blogspot.com) that among other things are kind enough to offer people “fair market value” for their lands. What is that? What is the market value of a piece of land with a cloud hanging over it? With restrictions as to how it can be used?
These people may have lived for several generations on their land and have no intention to sell out. Yet they are being asked to “up and leave” to make room for somebody else, (more than likely Big Energy) without fair compensation. What kind of justice is that? Come and find out on Wednesday at Leslieville. Joe Anglin will be there. I don't know if any of Stelmach's puppies will be game to show up. Ty Lund didn't know either.
Opinion by Helge Nome
At this time the subject of Bill 19 is popping up all over Alberta and a public meeting is planned for 7:30pm at the Leslieville Elks Hall this Wednesday, April 8. Another one is planned for Innisfail on the same night, where Infrastructure Minister Jack Hayden is supposed to be present. I have been involved in organizing the Leslieville meeting and invited Ty Lund to come along. Unfortunately he is unable to attend due to a prior personal engagement in Edmonton on Wednesday. However, I did have a telephone conversation with him on the subject of Bill 19.
From the government perspective, if I got it right, the bill (called “Land Assembly Area Project Act”) is supposed to give land owners a “heads up” on proposed developments that will affect their lands. Ring roads around cities have been mentioned.
That is meant to be an improvement on the current situation where land can be purchased or expropriated by the government without any forewarning. But is it? The bill, as it stands (check it out for yourself on the internet), basically says that the Lieutenant Governor in Council can do exactly what he pleases and, on top of it all, make regulations to please himself even more, as he sees fit, to deal with particular situations that may crop up. And those regulations don't exist at this time when the bill is before the legislature. It is like writing a blank cheque and signing it!
The other thing that is troubling is that once a “Land Assembly Area” has been declared, people whose lands are included in that designation are left in limbo and have rules imposed on them as to what they can do with their lands.
After all the fuss about the bill, the Government has now proposed amendments designed to address peoples' concerns (a summary of which can be found on http://helgenome.blogspot.com) that among other things are kind enough to offer people “fair market value” for their lands. What is that? What is the market value of a piece of land with a cloud hanging over it? With restrictions as to how it can be used?
These people may have lived for several generations on their land and have no intention to sell out. Yet they are being asked to “up and leave” to make room for somebody else, (more than likely Big Energy) without fair compensation. What kind of justice is that? Come and find out on Wednesday at Leslieville. Joe Anglin will be there. I don't know if any of Stelmach's puppies will be game to show up. Ty Lund didn't know either.
Bill 19 Amendments
Summary of Draft Amendments to Bill 19
Land Assembly Project Area Act
The Alberta government is considering draft amendments that will create greater
certainty for landowners.
Emphasis on consultation provisions (Section 2)
Mandatory consultation is a fundamental provision of the Act. To better
emphasize the consultation provisions within the legislation, they will be set out in
a stand-alone section.
Time limit for government to approve a project area (Section 2)
Section 2 would be amended to place a two-year limit on government to
complete consultations and make a decision whether to approve the project area.
The amendment requires government to diligently pursue a project, and limits the
period of uncertainty for affected landowners while government decides whether
to approve a proposed project area.
Purchase of Land Provisions (Section 5)
The proposed amendment would require government to enter into negotiations to
purchase a landowner’s land in an approved project area, at the request of the
landowner.
Compensation will be based on market value. If the two parties are unable to
agree to a price, the landowner has the option to ask for an independent third
party to determine the price. Landowners will be able to appeal the decision.
Removal of Section 13
Section 13 has been misinterpreted to mean that Bill 19 overrides the
Expropriation Act, which is incorrect. To eliminate confusion, it has been
removed.
If an expropriation is required, all the rights and protections afforded to
landowners by the Expropriation Act will apply.
Alberta Infrastructure
March 19, 2009
LAND ASSEMBLY PROJECT AREA ACT
DRAFT AMENDMENTS
􀂙 Emphasis on consultation provisions
􀂙 Time limit for government to approve a project area
A Section 2 is amended
(a) in subsection (1) by striking out “If” and substituting “Subject to section 2.1, if
(b) by striking out subsections (3) and (4).
B The following is added after section 2:
Plans, consultation and other requirements
2.1(1) The Lieutenant Governor in Council may not designate an area of land as a Project Area with
respect to a public project unless the Minister
(a) has prepared a plan, in accordance with the regulations, of the proposed project,
(b) has made the plan of the proposed project available to the public in accordance with the
regulations,
(c) has provided the registered owners of land within the proposed Project Area with notice of the
proposed project in accordance with the regulations, and
(d) has consulted, in accordance with the regulations, with the registered owners of land within the
proposed Project Area.
(2) The Lieutenant Governor in Council may not designate an area of land as a project area, if more
than 2 years has elapsed since the plan of the proposed project was made available to the public under
subsection (1)(b).
(3) Where a project area order is amended to add land to a Project Area that does not exceed the
maximum amount of land determined under the regulations, subsection (1)(c) and (d) apply only to the
registered owners of the land being added and of any land adjacent to the land being added.
Alberta Infrastructure
March 19, 2009
􀂙Purchase of Land Provisions
C Section 5 is struck out and the following is substituted:
Request to purchase by registered owner
5(1) Subject to section 5.1, at any time, at the request of the registered owner of land within a Project
Area, the Crown shall enter into an agreement with the registered owner to purchase the land at market
value.
(2) Where under subsection (1) the registered owner agrees to sell the land and the Crown agrees to
purchase the land but there is no agreement as to the market value of the land, the registered owner may
apply to the Land Compensation Board or the Court of Queen’s Bench or in accordance with any other
process agreed on by the parties for a determination of the market value of the land as at the time the
registered owner made the request under subsection (1) or as at such other time as the parties agree on.
(3) If the registered owner requests that the Land Compensation Board make the determination as to
the market value of the land, for the purpose of making the determination, the Land Compensation
Board has jurisdiction with respect to the determination of market value under this Act and may
exercise the powers given to it pursuant to section 28 of the Expropriation Act.
(4) The registered owner referred to in subsection (2) or the Minister may, within 30 days after
receiving notice of the determination of the Land Compensation Board, appeal the determination to the
Court of Appeal and section 37 of the Expropriation Act applies to the appeal.
Requirement of land by the Crown
5.1 When the land within a Project Area is required by the Crown for or in connection with the public
project, the Crown may acquire the land by purchase or expropriation.
Funding for acquisition of land
5.2 Money required for the acquisition of land under this Act shall be paid out of money voted by the
Legislature for the purpose.
Administration of land
5.3 Land acquired under this section is under the administration of the Minister unless, before or after
the acquisition, the Lieutenant Governor in Council directs that it is under the administration of
some other Minister.
􀂙 Removal of Section 13
D Section 13 is struck out.
Land Assembly Project Area Act
The Alberta government is considering draft amendments that will create greater
certainty for landowners.
Emphasis on consultation provisions (Section 2)
Mandatory consultation is a fundamental provision of the Act. To better
emphasize the consultation provisions within the legislation, they will be set out in
a stand-alone section.
Time limit for government to approve a project area (Section 2)
Section 2 would be amended to place a two-year limit on government to
complete consultations and make a decision whether to approve the project area.
The amendment requires government to diligently pursue a project, and limits the
period of uncertainty for affected landowners while government decides whether
to approve a proposed project area.
Purchase of Land Provisions (Section 5)
The proposed amendment would require government to enter into negotiations to
purchase a landowner’s land in an approved project area, at the request of the
landowner.
Compensation will be based on market value. If the two parties are unable to
agree to a price, the landowner has the option to ask for an independent third
party to determine the price. Landowners will be able to appeal the decision.
Removal of Section 13
Section 13 has been misinterpreted to mean that Bill 19 overrides the
Expropriation Act, which is incorrect. To eliminate confusion, it has been
removed.
If an expropriation is required, all the rights and protections afforded to
landowners by the Expropriation Act will apply.
Alberta Infrastructure
March 19, 2009
LAND ASSEMBLY PROJECT AREA ACT
DRAFT AMENDMENTS
􀂙 Emphasis on consultation provisions
􀂙 Time limit for government to approve a project area
A Section 2 is amended
(a) in subsection (1) by striking out “If” and substituting “Subject to section 2.1, if
(b) by striking out subsections (3) and (4).
B The following is added after section 2:
Plans, consultation and other requirements
2.1(1) The Lieutenant Governor in Council may not designate an area of land as a Project Area with
respect to a public project unless the Minister
(a) has prepared a plan, in accordance with the regulations, of the proposed project,
(b) has made the plan of the proposed project available to the public in accordance with the
regulations,
(c) has provided the registered owners of land within the proposed Project Area with notice of the
proposed project in accordance with the regulations, and
(d) has consulted, in accordance with the regulations, with the registered owners of land within the
proposed Project Area.
(2) The Lieutenant Governor in Council may not designate an area of land as a project area, if more
than 2 years has elapsed since the plan of the proposed project was made available to the public under
subsection (1)(b).
(3) Where a project area order is amended to add land to a Project Area that does not exceed the
maximum amount of land determined under the regulations, subsection (1)(c) and (d) apply only to the
registered owners of the land being added and of any land adjacent to the land being added.
Alberta Infrastructure
March 19, 2009
􀂙Purchase of Land Provisions
C Section 5 is struck out and the following is substituted:
Request to purchase by registered owner
5(1) Subject to section 5.1, at any time, at the request of the registered owner of land within a Project
Area, the Crown shall enter into an agreement with the registered owner to purchase the land at market
value.
(2) Where under subsection (1) the registered owner agrees to sell the land and the Crown agrees to
purchase the land but there is no agreement as to the market value of the land, the registered owner may
apply to the Land Compensation Board or the Court of Queen’s Bench or in accordance with any other
process agreed on by the parties for a determination of the market value of the land as at the time the
registered owner made the request under subsection (1) or as at such other time as the parties agree on.
(3) If the registered owner requests that the Land Compensation Board make the determination as to
the market value of the land, for the purpose of making the determination, the Land Compensation
Board has jurisdiction with respect to the determination of market value under this Act and may
exercise the powers given to it pursuant to section 28 of the Expropriation Act.
(4) The registered owner referred to in subsection (2) or the Minister may, within 30 days after
receiving notice of the determination of the Land Compensation Board, appeal the determination to the
Court of Appeal and section 37 of the Expropriation Act applies to the appeal.
Requirement of land by the Crown
5.1 When the land within a Project Area is required by the Crown for or in connection with the public
project, the Crown may acquire the land by purchase or expropriation.
Funding for acquisition of land
5.2 Money required for the acquisition of land under this Act shall be paid out of money voted by the
Legislature for the purpose.
Administration of land
5.3 Land acquired under this section is under the administration of the Minister unless, before or after
the acquisition, the Lieutenant Governor in Council directs that it is under the administration of
some other Minister.
􀂙 Removal of Section 13
D Section 13 is struck out.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Open House At Crammond
Gravel And Hot Mix Asphalt Operation Planned For Crammond Area
Border Paving Ltd. of Red Deer is proposing to establish a sand and gravel operation on the North West quarter of 30-35-04-W5M which is located about 4 miles east of the Crammond corner on Highway 22 south east of Caroline.
Border Paving will be hosting an Open House about the proposal in Crammond Hall at the intersection between Highway 22 and the Crammond Road this coming Monday, April 6, from 7pm-9pm. This is the first step in a process to obtain a development permit from Clearwater County. Inquiries can be directed to Thor Thordarson at 403 343 1177.
Border Paving Ltd. of Red Deer is proposing to establish a sand and gravel operation on the North West quarter of 30-35-04-W5M which is located about 4 miles east of the Crammond corner on Highway 22 south east of Caroline.
Border Paving will be hosting an Open House about the proposal in Crammond Hall at the intersection between Highway 22 and the Crammond Road this coming Monday, April 6, from 7pm-9pm. This is the first step in a process to obtain a development permit from Clearwater County. Inquiries can be directed to Thor Thordarson at 403 343 1177.
Interview with Noam Chomsky
World renown political and social commentator is interviewed by Amy Goodman
Thursday, April 2, 2009
G20 Photo Op
The G20 Photo Op is just that. A way for world "leaders" to parade in front of cameras to boost their egos and give them and the audience an illusion of their power.
The agenda is very simple: A massive transfer of public wealth into the web of the Word Spider which controls the IMF and other large banking institutions. And it has all been arranged long before the advent of the conference. Other countries need to take counter measures by creating their own reserve currency for mutual support. Otherwise the IMF will pillage their economies like they are doing to their existing debtors.
The agenda is very simple: A massive transfer of public wealth into the web of the Word Spider which controls the IMF and other large banking institutions. And it has all been arranged long before the advent of the conference. Other countries need to take counter measures by creating their own reserve currency for mutual support. Otherwise the IMF will pillage their economies like they are doing to their existing debtors.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Caroline Village Council Notes
Caroline Has New Fire Chief
At its regular council meeting on Tuesday, March 17, the Village Council appointed Rick Foesier to the position of Battalion Fire Chief for the Caroline Fire Department. This was done following the resignation of Caroline Fire Chief Patrick Blowers. All councillors except Van Dijk were present at the meeting along with CAO McKinnon.
Preparing For Development Appeal Hearing
An appeal has been registered against the Municipal Planning Commission's conditional approval of an application to establish a youth center in Caroline by the Rocky Youth Development Society. A commercial building on the west end of the village, on the main thoroughfare, is the proposed venue.
As this issue has provoked a great deal of local interest, CAO McKinnon suggested that Council appoint previous Village CAO Mike Haugen to the position of Interim SDAB Secretary as the hearing will be a “quasi judicial” one. A motion to this effect was carried. The hearing will take place at the Caroline Complex on Thursday, March 26 at 9:30am.
CAO Report
CAO McKinnon presented his written report as follows with an additional item “Call For Volunteers” inserted after an in-camera session at the end of the meeting: (please insert report emailed last week)
Utility Billings Set To Increase By 20%
Council gave first reading to a proposed amendment to the Village Utility Bylaw (#36/07) for an across the board increase in charges for water, sewer and garbage services of 20%. Included in the proposed bylaw change is the intention to change billing periods from bi-monthly to monthly. The 2009 Village Budget requires the increase in order to account for inflation as billing rates have been flat for several years. Two more readings are required to bring the changes into effect.
Board Reports
Mayor Cudmore, reporting from the Library Board, said that the board had declined a request to rent the library out for meetings. The book club is exempted from this decision. An old magazine rack from the library is now available. There are still some frost heaving problems by the front doors of the library.
Deputy Mayor Nielsen said that the recycle week will begin on May 23 in Rocky this year. People can bring in their unwanted articles and pick up other peoples' unwanted stuff as they please. Last year's event was very successful with very few things ending up on the dump. The Rocky Solid Waste Authority will arrange to pick up articles from Caroline to bring to the recycling tent in Rocky.
Councillor Pryor, reporting from the West Country Drug Coalition, presented copies of the newly released brochure “Take Charge” which provides advice on how to deal with drug problems. This is a resource pamphlet with an emphasis on self direction. Pryor also noted that the Clearwater Boys and Girls Club had given a report to the FCSS Board.
Items For Discussion
McKinnon, having looked into the idea of providing village residents with trees for their lots said that shrubs might be more appropriate because of high maintenance costs of mature trees. He said that Village office staff had been paid overtime in order to get financial information ready for the 2008 audit of the Village's books. This was done in order to reduce the size of the audit bill. A review of the Village's Curfew Bylaw #532 was tabled. The bylaw states that children 16 years of age or younger are not to be in public, without proper guardianship, between 11pm and 6am. Councillors felt that this bylaw should only be enforced “when things go wrong”.
McKinnon had been led to understand that there may be federal funds available for to install water meters in the village, so this issue is on hold for now, pending more information. The goal, however, is to have meters installed by the end of 2009.
At its regular council meeting on Tuesday, March 17, the Village Council appointed Rick Foesier to the position of Battalion Fire Chief for the Caroline Fire Department. This was done following the resignation of Caroline Fire Chief Patrick Blowers. All councillors except Van Dijk were present at the meeting along with CAO McKinnon.
Preparing For Development Appeal Hearing
An appeal has been registered against the Municipal Planning Commission's conditional approval of an application to establish a youth center in Caroline by the Rocky Youth Development Society. A commercial building on the west end of the village, on the main thoroughfare, is the proposed venue.
As this issue has provoked a great deal of local interest, CAO McKinnon suggested that Council appoint previous Village CAO Mike Haugen to the position of Interim SDAB Secretary as the hearing will be a “quasi judicial” one. A motion to this effect was carried. The hearing will take place at the Caroline Complex on Thursday, March 26 at 9:30am.
CAO Report
CAO McKinnon presented his written report as follows with an additional item “Call For Volunteers” inserted after an in-camera session at the end of the meeting: (please insert report emailed last week)
Utility Billings Set To Increase By 20%
Council gave first reading to a proposed amendment to the Village Utility Bylaw (#36/07) for an across the board increase in charges for water, sewer and garbage services of 20%. Included in the proposed bylaw change is the intention to change billing periods from bi-monthly to monthly. The 2009 Village Budget requires the increase in order to account for inflation as billing rates have been flat for several years. Two more readings are required to bring the changes into effect.
Board Reports
Mayor Cudmore, reporting from the Library Board, said that the board had declined a request to rent the library out for meetings. The book club is exempted from this decision. An old magazine rack from the library is now available. There are still some frost heaving problems by the front doors of the library.
Deputy Mayor Nielsen said that the recycle week will begin on May 23 in Rocky this year. People can bring in their unwanted articles and pick up other peoples' unwanted stuff as they please. Last year's event was very successful with very few things ending up on the dump. The Rocky Solid Waste Authority will arrange to pick up articles from Caroline to bring to the recycling tent in Rocky.
Councillor Pryor, reporting from the West Country Drug Coalition, presented copies of the newly released brochure “Take Charge” which provides advice on how to deal with drug problems. This is a resource pamphlet with an emphasis on self direction. Pryor also noted that the Clearwater Boys and Girls Club had given a report to the FCSS Board.
Items For Discussion
McKinnon, having looked into the idea of providing village residents with trees for their lots said that shrubs might be more appropriate because of high maintenance costs of mature trees. He said that Village office staff had been paid overtime in order to get financial information ready for the 2008 audit of the Village's books. This was done in order to reduce the size of the audit bill. A review of the Village's Curfew Bylaw #532 was tabled. The bylaw states that children 16 years of age or younger are not to be in public, without proper guardianship, between 11pm and 6am. Councillors felt that this bylaw should only be enforced “when things go wrong”.
McKinnon had been led to understand that there may be federal funds available for to install water meters in the village, so this issue is on hold for now, pending more information. The goal, however, is to have meters installed by the end of 2009.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Pen Meets Paper March 30 '09
Pen Meets Paper
Opinion by Helge Nome
I attended the West Central Stakeholders event at the Lou Soppit Community Centre in Rocky Mountain House last Thursday, March 26. The group is financially facilitated by oil and gas companies operating in Clearwater County and exists to minimize conflicts between the industry and land owners. The Sundre Petroleum Operators' Group (SPOG) operates along similar guidelines.
The topic for the meeting was “Understanding Landowners' Rights when the oil and gas industry comes to your door”. The meeting was very well attended by local and industry people and was addressed by representatives from the Energy Resources Conservation Board (ERCB). The Surface Rights Board SRB) and the Farmer's Advocate Office (FAO).
As a landowner listening to the presentation I had the distinct feeling of being back in a classroom along with fellow land owners and being lectured to by the gentlemen in front of us.
For example, we were told that, and please correct me if I am wrong, farmers only contribute some 2% to the overall economy (read: you are not very important). I.e. Landowners should step aside and let the important people come in and do what is in the public interest. Namely to extract oil and gas resources and so create revenues for the public purse (read: extract non renewable resources as quickly as possible from Alberta's soils).
We were also reminded to respect one another in dealings over oil and gas issues by our teachers at the front of the room. We were told that productive negotiations produce win-win outcomes
(read: the oil/gas company moves in and sets up shop). Other kinds of outcomes were win-lose or lose-lose (read: the “lose” part applies to the landowner). Information was provided indicating that a minuscule number of applications for wells (20+) out of several thousands were rejected by the ERCB (read: so you might as well give up opposing them).
We were also told that the ERCB had not really been provided with any kind of guiding philosophy by the Government of Alberta, and so had to make up its own. And this has irrefutably meant maximum possible extraction of energy in the shortest possible time, as determined by market conditions.
Having been given the opportunity to use a microphone, I suggested that the Energy Resources Conservation Board should be renamed to become the Energy Resources Extraction Board, to more accurately reflect its real purpose.
By now, most of us probably realize that the present Alberta Government, and many before this one, is essentially a front shop for Big Energy. The newly proposed Bill 19 is an excellent example of how the government is being used as a tool to pave the way for big energy developments. And the Stelmach puppies just rewarded themselves with a nice pay increase for their good work which consists mostly in tail wagging to Big Energy.
To find out more about this, come to the Leslieville Elks Hall (just across the street from the community hall) on Wednesday, April 8 at 7:30pm. Joe Anglin will be there.
Opinion by Helge Nome
I attended the West Central Stakeholders event at the Lou Soppit Community Centre in Rocky Mountain House last Thursday, March 26. The group is financially facilitated by oil and gas companies operating in Clearwater County and exists to minimize conflicts between the industry and land owners. The Sundre Petroleum Operators' Group (SPOG) operates along similar guidelines.
The topic for the meeting was “Understanding Landowners' Rights when the oil and gas industry comes to your door”. The meeting was very well attended by local and industry people and was addressed by representatives from the Energy Resources Conservation Board (ERCB). The Surface Rights Board SRB) and the Farmer's Advocate Office (FAO).
As a landowner listening to the presentation I had the distinct feeling of being back in a classroom along with fellow land owners and being lectured to by the gentlemen in front of us.
For example, we were told that, and please correct me if I am wrong, farmers only contribute some 2% to the overall economy (read: you are not very important). I.e. Landowners should step aside and let the important people come in and do what is in the public interest. Namely to extract oil and gas resources and so create revenues for the public purse (read: extract non renewable resources as quickly as possible from Alberta's soils).
We were also reminded to respect one another in dealings over oil and gas issues by our teachers at the front of the room. We were told that productive negotiations produce win-win outcomes
(read: the oil/gas company moves in and sets up shop). Other kinds of outcomes were win-lose or lose-lose (read: the “lose” part applies to the landowner). Information was provided indicating that a minuscule number of applications for wells (20+) out of several thousands were rejected by the ERCB (read: so you might as well give up opposing them).
We were also told that the ERCB had not really been provided with any kind of guiding philosophy by the Government of Alberta, and so had to make up its own. And this has irrefutably meant maximum possible extraction of energy in the shortest possible time, as determined by market conditions.
Having been given the opportunity to use a microphone, I suggested that the Energy Resources Conservation Board should be renamed to become the Energy Resources Extraction Board, to more accurately reflect its real purpose.
By now, most of us probably realize that the present Alberta Government, and many before this one, is essentially a front shop for Big Energy. The newly proposed Bill 19 is an excellent example of how the government is being used as a tool to pave the way for big energy developments. And the Stelmach puppies just rewarded themselves with a nice pay increase for their good work which consists mostly in tail wagging to Big Energy.
To find out more about this, come to the Leslieville Elks Hall (just across the street from the community hall) on Wednesday, April 8 at 7:30pm. Joe Anglin will be there.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Important Event
LEARN THE FACTS ABOUT BILL 19
The Public is Invited to Attend a Critical Meeting Pertaining to Democratic Rights and the Proposed Bill 19, which gives the Government Unprecedented Powers to
Expropriate Private Property
Come out to the
Leslieville Elks Hall
WEDNESDAY APRIL 8th @ 7:30 PM
Learn the Facts about the proposed Bill 19!
ADMISSION IS FREE
Bill 19 has Serious Consequences for Small Businesses, Farm/Ranch Operations and
Your Democratic Right to be Fairly Compensated!
Attend this meeting and learn what
the Government is not telling you !
Speaker: Joe Anglin - Landowner Advocate/ Leader Alberta Green Party
Presented by: Alberta Progress Party Society
For more information:
Edwin Erickson, Spokesman
Tel: 780-682-2368 Cell: 780-621-3442
Sponsored by the Alberta Social Credit Party
Everyone is encouraged to attend!
The Public is Invited to Attend a Critical Meeting Pertaining to Democratic Rights and the Proposed Bill 19, which gives the Government Unprecedented Powers to
Expropriate Private Property
Come out to the
Leslieville Elks Hall
WEDNESDAY APRIL 8th @ 7:30 PM
Learn the Facts about the proposed Bill 19!
ADMISSION IS FREE
Bill 19 has Serious Consequences for Small Businesses, Farm/Ranch Operations and
Your Democratic Right to be Fairly Compensated!
Attend this meeting and learn what
the Government is not telling you !
Speaker: Joe Anglin - Landowner Advocate/ Leader Alberta Green Party
Presented by: Alberta Progress Party Society
For more information:
Edwin Erickson, Spokesman
Tel: 780-682-2368 Cell: 780-621-3442
Sponsored by the Alberta Social Credit Party
Everyone is encouraged to attend!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Pen Meets Paper March 23 '09
Opinion by Helge Nome
Lately, I have been a rather avid reader of the works of economist John Kenneth Galbraith who had his beginning in rural Canada and has since risen to world wide prominence in his profession. Among other things, as a young man he was responsible for price controls during WWII in the Franklin D. Roosevelt administration in the U.S.
In his book, Economics and the Public Purpose published in 1973, Galbraith writes about the rise of the “corporation” and its bullying effect on the rest of us. Moreover, he notes how the boards of these corporations are becoming less and less effective in guiding the organization until they end up as rubber stamps for decisions made by executive staff members who increasingly look after their own interests at the expense of both shareholders and consumers of their products.
And wasn't he ever right! Look at AIG and its arrogant and greedy executives who walked away with wads of public money confiscated from the public by a corrupt federal administration.
Over the years the quality of the people who have entered public life, both here in Canada and in the U.S., has gone down hill to the point where those that make it into paid office simply carry out the will of the cliques that run the large corporations. So, the wants of Big Food, Big Pharma, Big Energy, and above all, Big Finance, overrule the needs of us, the real shareholders in what is being produced.
On the federal level here in Canada my point has recently been supported by statements made by the Right Honorable Prime Minister Stephen Harper in regard to the Canadian economy and its relative immunity from the global economic downturn. Harper lays claim to being an economist but was quickly corrected by David Dodge, former Governor of the Bank of Canada (which, by the way, belong to us) who said that the severity of the global crisis should not be underestimated and that Canada is very vulnerable to world events. And you don't need to be a scholar to figure that out with some 80% of Canada's exports going to the U.S.
And finally, here in Alberta we now have Bill 19 which seeks to bulldoze Albertans out of the way of Big Energy, whenever it suits the Minister, with no recourse other than being arrested if you pipe up too much against the Minister's pleasure. It reminds me of something that actually happened in Britain a number of years ago: His Lordship was getting tired of the view from his balcony being spoiled by a part of the local village appearing in his line of sight. So he ordered it razed and replaced with suitable vegetation. Is that what we want?
Lately, I have been a rather avid reader of the works of economist John Kenneth Galbraith who had his beginning in rural Canada and has since risen to world wide prominence in his profession. Among other things, as a young man he was responsible for price controls during WWII in the Franklin D. Roosevelt administration in the U.S.
In his book, Economics and the Public Purpose published in 1973, Galbraith writes about the rise of the “corporation” and its bullying effect on the rest of us. Moreover, he notes how the boards of these corporations are becoming less and less effective in guiding the organization until they end up as rubber stamps for decisions made by executive staff members who increasingly look after their own interests at the expense of both shareholders and consumers of their products.
And wasn't he ever right! Look at AIG and its arrogant and greedy executives who walked away with wads of public money confiscated from the public by a corrupt federal administration.
Over the years the quality of the people who have entered public life, both here in Canada and in the U.S., has gone down hill to the point where those that make it into paid office simply carry out the will of the cliques that run the large corporations. So, the wants of Big Food, Big Pharma, Big Energy, and above all, Big Finance, overrule the needs of us, the real shareholders in what is being produced.
On the federal level here in Canada my point has recently been supported by statements made by the Right Honorable Prime Minister Stephen Harper in regard to the Canadian economy and its relative immunity from the global economic downturn. Harper lays claim to being an economist but was quickly corrected by David Dodge, former Governor of the Bank of Canada (which, by the way, belong to us) who said that the severity of the global crisis should not be underestimated and that Canada is very vulnerable to world events. And you don't need to be a scholar to figure that out with some 80% of Canada's exports going to the U.S.
And finally, here in Alberta we now have Bill 19 which seeks to bulldoze Albertans out of the way of Big Energy, whenever it suits the Minister, with no recourse other than being arrested if you pipe up too much against the Minister's pleasure. It reminds me of something that actually happened in Britain a number of years ago: His Lordship was getting tired of the view from his balcony being spoiled by a part of the local village appearing in his line of sight. So he ordered it razed and replaced with suitable vegetation. Is that what we want?
Clearwater County Municipal Development Plan Update
Clearwater County is currently in the process of creating a Municipal Development Plan and provided community feedback on progress so far at the Caroline Complex last Wednesday, March 11. Chris Ulmer from Parkland Community Planning Services presented a Draft Strategies Report to a handful of interested community people along with county and village councillors. He noted that so far, some 200 people had attended planning sessions at various community halls in Clearwater County to brainstorm over the future of the county. 78 preliminary questionnaires were also returned.
The Municipal Development Plan will deal with the subjects of the County's Natural Capital (agricultural lands, forests,water), Green Places and Recreation (includes use of backcountry trails by large numbers of people) , Rural Residential (includes controversial multi lot subdivisions), Hamlets (expansion possibilities), Economic Development (diversify a local economy that is currently very resource dependent while retaining an agricultural base), Infrastructure (roads, utilities, etc.), Services (health,education, etc.) and Intermunicipal and Local Area Planning.
Caroline, as a Village and independent municipality, fits into this last category and the idea is to undertake a Joint Outline Plan with the Village for a mutually agreed upon fringe area of land..
The two municipalities are well positioned to this after many years of extensive cooperation
The Province requires counties in Alberta to create municipal development plans which create a mosaic that theoretically will form the basis for, and fit into, regional development plans.
The planning process is ongoing and further community involvement will be solicited. To find out more, please Google Clearwater County Alberta.
The Municipal Development Plan will deal with the subjects of the County's Natural Capital (agricultural lands, forests,water), Green Places and Recreation (includes use of backcountry trails by large numbers of people) , Rural Residential (includes controversial multi lot subdivisions), Hamlets (expansion possibilities), Economic Development (diversify a local economy that is currently very resource dependent while retaining an agricultural base), Infrastructure (roads, utilities, etc.), Services (health,education, etc.) and Intermunicipal and Local Area Planning.
Caroline, as a Village and independent municipality, fits into this last category and the idea is to undertake a Joint Outline Plan with the Village for a mutually agreed upon fringe area of land..
The two municipalities are well positioned to this after many years of extensive cooperation
The Province requires counties in Alberta to create municipal development plans which create a mosaic that theoretically will form the basis for, and fit into, regional development plans.
The planning process is ongoing and further community involvement will be solicited. To find out more, please Google Clearwater County Alberta.
Caroline School News
Vice-Principal's Message
A cornerstone of our success at Caroline School is marked by high student
achievement, as you will see on your child’s report card. We are pleased to recognize
our students who are eager to be successful, and ask that when your child’s report
card does come home, you take time to review and reflect upon the substantial
learning and growth that has taken place. It is truly amazing! Elementary Report Cards
and Junior and Senior High Progress Reports will come home on March 13th.
Parent-teacher interviews for Elementary will be held on March 17th and 19th. Please
note your scheduled time, which will be recorded on your child’s report card. Junior
and senior high teachers will be available for interviews after school on March 19th as
well. The opportunity to discuss your child’s progress is value-laden, and we are
looking for a record turn-out!
ECS Registration for September takes place on March 12 between 4:30 – 6:30 at the
school. If you know of a child who will turn five before December 30, you are
encouraged to attend this important meeting. Mrs. Reum, our ECS expert, will be
presenting information to parents about her program and will be on hand to answer any
questions. It is well documented that students who experience ECS are academically
and socially advantaged when compared to their age-level peers.
Students in grade 4, 5 and 6 are working hard to compete in our school Speak-Off, to
be held on March 13th. The Speak-Off will take place from 12:30 – 2:00, and you are
encouraged to come out and be part of our audience! Developing ability in public
speaking is an important life-long skill. Students who are successful at the school level
will compete in our Division-Wide Public Speaking Competition in Breton on March
19th. Good luck, presenters!
The many learning opportunities provided to our elementary students at Caroline
School build the foundation for long term and continuing student achievement
throughout the school experience and beyond. Positive student attitudes, higher
attendance rates, lower drop-out rates, and a sense of belonging are observable
measures that are demonstrated by our junior high and senior high school students.
We are pleased by this. Caroline School continues to be an environment that develops
learning and leadership where school success and student achievement are attainable
goals.
Caroline School staff appreciates your support as we strive to meet these
commitments for our ECS youngsters right through to our young adults in Caroline’s
grade 12 classrooms.
Sincerely,
Pam Wright
Senior Vice-Principal
BREAKFAST PROGRAM
Our Breakfast Club needs help! We are always looking for volunteers. If you can help us out
on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday mornings from 8:00—8:30, we would really appreciate
this. Tasks might involve preparing toast and jam, slicing fruits, or setting our muffins for
individual classrooms. Hope you can help us! If you are interested, please phone the office
at 722-3833 and leave your name and availability.
SCHOOL YEARBOOKS
There are still a few 2007/2008 yearbooks available for purchase ($37) at the office.
As well orders for the 2008/2009 yearbooks are now being taken ($30). Stop by the office
to fill out the order form.
PEER TUTOR PROGRAM
Caroline School has a new Peer Tutor Program! The program will match trained student
tutors with students who request help in any academic area. The program began the
second week of February and is open to students of all ages. It will run Tuesday,
Wednesday, and Thursday from dismissal to 5PM. Volunteer teachers will supervise and
support tutor/learner pairs in the library and provide initial tutor training and monthly
support meetings. Tutors will be paid $10 an hour. The cost to parents will be $5 an hour.
Phone Heidi Brown at the school—722-3833, for more information.
FEBRUARY—STUDENT OF THE MONTH/HARDEST WORKING
Student of the Month Hardest Working
Gr. 1D—Katelyn Willsie Gr. 1D— Aidan Fay
Gr. 1K—Gregory Hensel Gr. 1K—Alyssa Oliver
G. 2—Anika Ahlstrom Gr. 2—Spencer Knight
Gr. 3—Jayden Ogilvie Gr. 3—Riley Westling
Gr. 3/4—Carly Graham Gr. 3/4– Zachary Oliver
Gr. 4—Jordan Maxwell Gr. 4—Samantha Nickerson
Gr. 5—Cole Michalsky Gr. 5—Maggie Timms
Gr. 5/6—Logan Neal Gr. 5/6—Dustyn Boos
Gr. 6—Cole Peters Gr. 6—Danika Wentzell
BOOK FAIR
Congratulations to WYATT MacDONALD from Miss Kanda’s Grade 1 class, who is the Grand Prize winner of the
Scholastic Book Fair. He receives $25 in books as well as $25 in books for his classroom.
Congratulations to the following winners of the classroom draws:
ECS KEELY BUTTS
GR 1D ABIGAIL OPHUS
GR 1K ABIGAIL ANDERSON
GR 2 DAWSON HANSON
GR 3 RYAN BERGEVIN
GR ¾ LIBBY SCHEELAR
GR 4 KATY JOHNSON
GR 5 SHELDON SNELL
GR 5/6 MALLORY WESTERGAARD
GR 6 KEENEN KANDA
GR 7 MAKENZIE PEPPARD
GR 8 CARESSE HARVEY
GR 9 ABBY MERCIER
The Caroline School receives about $1000 in free books for the library
A cornerstone of our success at Caroline School is marked by high student
achievement, as you will see on your child’s report card. We are pleased to recognize
our students who are eager to be successful, and ask that when your child’s report
card does come home, you take time to review and reflect upon the substantial
learning and growth that has taken place. It is truly amazing! Elementary Report Cards
and Junior and Senior High Progress Reports will come home on March 13th.
Parent-teacher interviews for Elementary will be held on March 17th and 19th. Please
note your scheduled time, which will be recorded on your child’s report card. Junior
and senior high teachers will be available for interviews after school on March 19th as
well. The opportunity to discuss your child’s progress is value-laden, and we are
looking for a record turn-out!
ECS Registration for September takes place on March 12 between 4:30 – 6:30 at the
school. If you know of a child who will turn five before December 30, you are
encouraged to attend this important meeting. Mrs. Reum, our ECS expert, will be
presenting information to parents about her program and will be on hand to answer any
questions. It is well documented that students who experience ECS are academically
and socially advantaged when compared to their age-level peers.
Students in grade 4, 5 and 6 are working hard to compete in our school Speak-Off, to
be held on March 13th. The Speak-Off will take place from 12:30 – 2:00, and you are
encouraged to come out and be part of our audience! Developing ability in public
speaking is an important life-long skill. Students who are successful at the school level
will compete in our Division-Wide Public Speaking Competition in Breton on March
19th. Good luck, presenters!
The many learning opportunities provided to our elementary students at Caroline
School build the foundation for long term and continuing student achievement
throughout the school experience and beyond. Positive student attitudes, higher
attendance rates, lower drop-out rates, and a sense of belonging are observable
measures that are demonstrated by our junior high and senior high school students.
We are pleased by this. Caroline School continues to be an environment that develops
learning and leadership where school success and student achievement are attainable
goals.
Caroline School staff appreciates your support as we strive to meet these
commitments for our ECS youngsters right through to our young adults in Caroline’s
grade 12 classrooms.
Sincerely,
Pam Wright
Senior Vice-Principal
BREAKFAST PROGRAM
Our Breakfast Club needs help! We are always looking for volunteers. If you can help us out
on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday mornings from 8:00—8:30, we would really appreciate
this. Tasks might involve preparing toast and jam, slicing fruits, or setting our muffins for
individual classrooms. Hope you can help us! If you are interested, please phone the office
at 722-3833 and leave your name and availability.
SCHOOL YEARBOOKS
There are still a few 2007/2008 yearbooks available for purchase ($37) at the office.
As well orders for the 2008/2009 yearbooks are now being taken ($30). Stop by the office
to fill out the order form.
PEER TUTOR PROGRAM
Caroline School has a new Peer Tutor Program! The program will match trained student
tutors with students who request help in any academic area. The program began the
second week of February and is open to students of all ages. It will run Tuesday,
Wednesday, and Thursday from dismissal to 5PM. Volunteer teachers will supervise and
support tutor/learner pairs in the library and provide initial tutor training and monthly
support meetings. Tutors will be paid $10 an hour. The cost to parents will be $5 an hour.
Phone Heidi Brown at the school—722-3833, for more information.
FEBRUARY—STUDENT OF THE MONTH/HARDEST WORKING
Student of the Month Hardest Working
Gr. 1D—Katelyn Willsie Gr. 1D— Aidan Fay
Gr. 1K—Gregory Hensel Gr. 1K—Alyssa Oliver
G. 2—Anika Ahlstrom Gr. 2—Spencer Knight
Gr. 3—Jayden Ogilvie Gr. 3—Riley Westling
Gr. 3/4—Carly Graham Gr. 3/4– Zachary Oliver
Gr. 4—Jordan Maxwell Gr. 4—Samantha Nickerson
Gr. 5—Cole Michalsky Gr. 5—Maggie Timms
Gr. 5/6—Logan Neal Gr. 5/6—Dustyn Boos
Gr. 6—Cole Peters Gr. 6—Danika Wentzell
BOOK FAIR
Congratulations to WYATT MacDONALD from Miss Kanda’s Grade 1 class, who is the Grand Prize winner of the
Scholastic Book Fair. He receives $25 in books as well as $25 in books for his classroom.
Congratulations to the following winners of the classroom draws:
ECS KEELY BUTTS
GR 1D ABIGAIL OPHUS
GR 1K ABIGAIL ANDERSON
GR 2 DAWSON HANSON
GR 3 RYAN BERGEVIN
GR ¾ LIBBY SCHEELAR
GR 4 KATY JOHNSON
GR 5 SHELDON SNELL
GR 5/6 MALLORY WESTERGAARD
GR 6 KEENEN KANDA
GR 7 MAKENZIE PEPPARD
GR 8 CARESSE HARVEY
GR 9 ABBY MERCIER
The Caroline School receives about $1000 in free books for the library
Monday, March 16, 2009
Pen Meets Paper March 16 '09
Opinion by Helge Nome
The Stelmach government in Alberta has let another animal out the back door. It is called “Bill 19” and makes the previous Bill 46 look like a rather tame puppy.
Just to tickle your memory a little bit: Bill 46 poked its nose out the door in 2007 amongst all the controversy over the proposed 500 kilovolt power line between Edmonton and Calgary. It was an aggressive little beast seeking to limit landholders' rights to oppose power corridor developments over their lands and retroactively legitimized scandalous actions by the Energy Utilities Board in its dealings with the public. During this time, the EUB was also found to have hired spies to listen in on the conversations of objectors to proposals being heard by the board. As the dust settled towards the end of 2007, a slightly muted Bill 46 was passed by the legislature, creating the Alberta Utilities Commission and so splitting the EUB into the Energy Resources Conservation Board (ERCB) and the AUC. And nameplates were shuffled on the doors of the various operatives without any evidence in a change of attitude as is now indicated by the emergence of Bill19.
Here is a quote from the Edmonton Journal:
“Alberta Green Party leader Joe Anglin, who spearheaded landowner opposition during the first hearings into the Edmonton-Calgary 500 KV transmission line, called the bill "one of the most draconian attempts to streamline the expropriation process of private property known to a democratic society."
Bill 19 makes it legal for any cabinet minister to take away anyone's home, land or property "for pretty much any reason they so desire," he said.
"If the minister thinks you are going to contravene his or her orders, they can order you to stop what they think you are going to do, and if you don't stop what they think you might do, they can put you in jail."
The bill carries heavy penalties for people who break regulations. Violators face fines of up to $100,000 or up to two years in prison or both while corporations can be fined up to $1 million.”
Fancy that; the agents of Big Energy are at it again, using the Stelmach puppies to look after their interests by trying to coerce Albertans into letting them do whatever they want.
The Stelmach government in Alberta has let another animal out the back door. It is called “Bill 19” and makes the previous Bill 46 look like a rather tame puppy.
Just to tickle your memory a little bit: Bill 46 poked its nose out the door in 2007 amongst all the controversy over the proposed 500 kilovolt power line between Edmonton and Calgary. It was an aggressive little beast seeking to limit landholders' rights to oppose power corridor developments over their lands and retroactively legitimized scandalous actions by the Energy Utilities Board in its dealings with the public. During this time, the EUB was also found to have hired spies to listen in on the conversations of objectors to proposals being heard by the board. As the dust settled towards the end of 2007, a slightly muted Bill 46 was passed by the legislature, creating the Alberta Utilities Commission and so splitting the EUB into the Energy Resources Conservation Board (ERCB) and the AUC. And nameplates were shuffled on the doors of the various operatives without any evidence in a change of attitude as is now indicated by the emergence of Bill19.
Here is a quote from the Edmonton Journal:
“Alberta Green Party leader Joe Anglin, who spearheaded landowner opposition during the first hearings into the Edmonton-Calgary 500 KV transmission line, called the bill "one of the most draconian attempts to streamline the expropriation process of private property known to a democratic society."
Bill 19 makes it legal for any cabinet minister to take away anyone's home, land or property "for pretty much any reason they so desire," he said.
"If the minister thinks you are going to contravene his or her orders, they can order you to stop what they think you are going to do, and if you don't stop what they think you might do, they can put you in jail."
The bill carries heavy penalties for people who break regulations. Violators face fines of up to $100,000 or up to two years in prison or both while corporations can be fined up to $1 million.”
Fancy that; the agents of Big Energy are at it again, using the Stelmach puppies to look after their interests by trying to coerce Albertans into letting them do whatever they want.
Caroline News March 9 '09
Rhythm and Rhyme Fest in April
The annual Caroline Rhythm and Rhyme event is planned for April 5 at the complex with the theme “Old Boots”. Activities begin at 10am with fellowship followed by a day of Western Poetry, Music and Displays. Featuring local and other well known artists. Don't forget to bring your old boots! Admission: Adult $10, Family $20. Concession will open at 10am. For more information, contact Al at 403 722 2032, Teresa at 403 722 2578 or Louise at 403 722 2409.
Village Council Notes
Caroline's Fire Chief Resigns
All councillors and CAO McKinnon were present at the regular meeting of the Village council last Tuesday March 3 at 2pm in the Village office. The matter of the resignation of Fire Chief Patrick Blowers was noted in the written CAO Report, but was not discussed at the meeting. Fire service delivery in the region is currently in a state of transition with the paid fire services staff at Clearwater County increasing in number. Reportedly, the new designation for Caroline's top fire fighter will be “Battalion Chief”.
Public Works Report.
The written report by Foreman Ron Landry was submitted to Council as follows: “The Public Works Department have hauled a lot of snow that has been piled up off the streets. The water tap in the Little Green park has been leaking. This tap does not have a curb stop to turn off the water. We need to make a decision to either replace the existing tap and put a curb stop on it so that the water can be shut off for the winter, or we need to remove the tap.
Garbage collections are running normally, and we have moved the garbage truck inside the shop so that it is easier to start during the cold weather. We were also able to repaint the floor and pipes in the water treatment plant. The treatment plant will need repairs on the backwash system. This system is leaking and the leak is progressively getting worse with every use of the system.
The hot water system at the RV Park is in need of repair. I am pricing out the cost of replacing the existing system to a tankless hot water system.
CAO Report.
CAO McKinnon presented his written report as follows: (please insert report forwarded by email)
Board Reports
Councillor Van Dijk reported from the regional fire committee that resumes had been received for the regional fire trainer positon at Clearwater County.
Councillor Pryor reported from SPOG that Shell is looking at a program to maximize gas extraction from existing wells as production declines.
Council Rep. For Spring Convention.
Clearwater County is prepared to pay for a Village Council Representative to go to the spring convention of the Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties in Edmonton on March 23,24 and 25. Councillor Pryor will attend this convention.
Discussion On Off-site Levy Contract Proposal.
CAO McKinnon presented draft contracts prepared by Stantec Consulting Ltd. and Parkland Community Planning Services to determine off-site levies charged by the Village to developers tying into existing municipal infrastructure. The idea is to tie into a 10 year Capital Infrastructure Plan that Stantec is currently working on for the Village. This can be a potentially sensitive area as developers are inclined to challenge the validity of extra charges.
The proposed fees for the work of determining off-site levies are quite substantial, Stantec- $29,400.00 and Parkland- $16,850.00, and Councillor Van Dijk questioned the need for this work, which includes five workshops, among other things. After some discussion, Council decided to go ahead and sign the contracts.
Museum Donation
The Village has a plaque dedicated to the memory of Caroline Rebecca Nelson which reads “Forever honoured by her namesake- Village of Caroline”. Based on a request from the Caroline museum, Council donated the plaque to the museum.
Village To Enter The Merchandise Business
CAO McKinnon floated the idea of selling village promotional merchandise such as T-shirts, etc.
A motion was carried to allocate $1,000.00 to implement this idea.
Development Permit Appeal Fee
Council decided to introduce a $100 appeal fee for people that decide to make an appeal against a Development Permit. The fee is refundable if the appeal is successful. This is intended to be a deterrent against malicious or frivolous appeals.
Bobcat Gets Pat On The Back
CAO McKinnon reported that residents have called in to say that they are very happy about the Bobcat brush attachment which is used to sweep sidewalks
Council went in-camera to discuss unspecified issues.
Pen Meets Paper
Opinion by Helge Nome
Canadians are beginning to ask themselves: “What are we doing in Afghanistan?” And the public debate does not even touch on the real reasons.
In order to understand why our elected representatives are prepared to pour a substantial proportion of our Gross Domestic Product, 18 billion dollars, into a dusty mountainous region on the other side of the world, it is necessary to take a step back and review the ongoing global chess game for power that never ends and began when life took hold on the surface of the planet.
Afghanistan has always been important to the world powers of the day because of its strategic position.
Taken from Wikipedia, here is the real reason for NATO's military presence in Afghanistan:
“The Trans-Afghanistan Pipeline (TAP or TAPI) is a proposed natural gas pipeline being developed by the Asian Development Bank. The pipeline will transport Caspian Sea natural gas from Turkmenistan through Afghanistan into Pakistan and then to India. Proponents of the project see it as a modern continuation of the Silk Road. The Afghan government is expected to receive 8% of the project's revenue
The original project started in March 1995 when an inaugural memorandum of understanding between the governments of Turkmenistan and Pakistan for a pipeline project was signed. In August 1996, the Central Asia Gas Pipeline, Ltd. (CentGas) consortium for construction of a pipeline, led by Unocal was formed. On 27 October 1997, CentGas was incorporated in formal signing ceremonies in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan by several international oil companies along with the Government of Turkmenistan. In January 1998, the Taliban, selecting CentGas over Argentinian competitor Bridas Corporation, signed an agreement that allowed the proposed project to proceed. In June 1998, Russian Gazprom relinquishes its 10% stake in the project. Unocal withdrew from the consortium on 8 December 1998.
The new deal on the pipeline was signed on 27 December 2002 by the leaders of Turkmenistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan.[1] In 2005, the Asian Development Bank submitted the final version of a feasibility study designed by British company Penspen. Since the United States military overthrew the Taliban government, the project has essentially stalled; construction of the Turkmen part was supposed to start in 2006, but the overall feasibility is questionable since the southern part of the Afghan section runs through territory which continues to be under de facto Taliban control.
On 24 April 2008, Pakistan, India and Afghanistan signed a framework agreement to buy natural gas from Turkmenistan.[2]
The 1,680 kilometres (1,040 mi) pipeline will run from the Dauletabad gas field to Afghanistan. From there TAPI will be constructed alongside the highway running from Herat to Kandahar, and then via Quetta and Multan in Pakistan. The final destination of the pipeline will be the Indian town of Fazilka, near the border between Pakistan and India.[3]
The pipeline will be 1,420 millimetres (56 in) in diameter with a working pressure of 100 atm.[3] The initial capacity will be 27 billion cubic meter (bcm) of natural gas annually of which 2 bcm will be provided to Afghanistan and 12.5 bcm to both Pakistan and India. Later the capacity will increase to 33 bcm.[4] Six compressor stations are to be constructed along the pipeline.[3] The pipeline is expected to be operational by 2014.[5]
The cost of the pipeline is estimated cost at US$7.6 billion.[2] The project is to be financed by the Asian Development Bank.[6]"
NATO is the military arm of what may be called the “Western Empire” which includes Canada, and the idea is to ultimately gain control of vast oil and gas reserves that used to be part of the Soviet Union and control the territory through which that energy is distributed. Hence our presence in Afghanistan.
The tribal people there have always resisted the intrusions into of foreigners into their territory and they have become very good at it through long practice. We are now on the receiving end of their skills, just like the Soviet soldiers used to be not so long ago.
From the point of view of the average Canadian the complete dishonesty of our politicians is a major issue: The top brass in all the political parties know exactly why our young people are being sacrificed in Afghanistan but tell the public and the young soldiers a completely different story, because the truth would be too upsetting for those that have lost loved ones.
The annual Caroline Rhythm and Rhyme event is planned for April 5 at the complex with the theme “Old Boots”. Activities begin at 10am with fellowship followed by a day of Western Poetry, Music and Displays. Featuring local and other well known artists. Don't forget to bring your old boots! Admission: Adult $10, Family $20. Concession will open at 10am. For more information, contact Al at 403 722 2032, Teresa at 403 722 2578 or Louise at 403 722 2409.
Village Council Notes
Caroline's Fire Chief Resigns
All councillors and CAO McKinnon were present at the regular meeting of the Village council last Tuesday March 3 at 2pm in the Village office. The matter of the resignation of Fire Chief Patrick Blowers was noted in the written CAO Report, but was not discussed at the meeting. Fire service delivery in the region is currently in a state of transition with the paid fire services staff at Clearwater County increasing in number. Reportedly, the new designation for Caroline's top fire fighter will be “Battalion Chief”.
Public Works Report.
The written report by Foreman Ron Landry was submitted to Council as follows: “The Public Works Department have hauled a lot of snow that has been piled up off the streets. The water tap in the Little Green park has been leaking. This tap does not have a curb stop to turn off the water. We need to make a decision to either replace the existing tap and put a curb stop on it so that the water can be shut off for the winter, or we need to remove the tap.
Garbage collections are running normally, and we have moved the garbage truck inside the shop so that it is easier to start during the cold weather. We were also able to repaint the floor and pipes in the water treatment plant. The treatment plant will need repairs on the backwash system. This system is leaking and the leak is progressively getting worse with every use of the system.
The hot water system at the RV Park is in need of repair. I am pricing out the cost of replacing the existing system to a tankless hot water system.
CAO Report.
CAO McKinnon presented his written report as follows: (please insert report forwarded by email)
Board Reports
Councillor Van Dijk reported from the regional fire committee that resumes had been received for the regional fire trainer positon at Clearwater County.
Councillor Pryor reported from SPOG that Shell is looking at a program to maximize gas extraction from existing wells as production declines.
Council Rep. For Spring Convention.
Clearwater County is prepared to pay for a Village Council Representative to go to the spring convention of the Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties in Edmonton on March 23,24 and 25. Councillor Pryor will attend this convention.
Discussion On Off-site Levy Contract Proposal.
CAO McKinnon presented draft contracts prepared by Stantec Consulting Ltd. and Parkland Community Planning Services to determine off-site levies charged by the Village to developers tying into existing municipal infrastructure. The idea is to tie into a 10 year Capital Infrastructure Plan that Stantec is currently working on for the Village. This can be a potentially sensitive area as developers are inclined to challenge the validity of extra charges.
The proposed fees for the work of determining off-site levies are quite substantial, Stantec- $29,400.00 and Parkland- $16,850.00, and Councillor Van Dijk questioned the need for this work, which includes five workshops, among other things. After some discussion, Council decided to go ahead and sign the contracts.
Museum Donation
The Village has a plaque dedicated to the memory of Caroline Rebecca Nelson which reads “Forever honoured by her namesake- Village of Caroline”. Based on a request from the Caroline museum, Council donated the plaque to the museum.
Village To Enter The Merchandise Business
CAO McKinnon floated the idea of selling village promotional merchandise such as T-shirts, etc.
A motion was carried to allocate $1,000.00 to implement this idea.
Development Permit Appeal Fee
Council decided to introduce a $100 appeal fee for people that decide to make an appeal against a Development Permit. The fee is refundable if the appeal is successful. This is intended to be a deterrent against malicious or frivolous appeals.
Bobcat Gets Pat On The Back
CAO McKinnon reported that residents have called in to say that they are very happy about the Bobcat brush attachment which is used to sweep sidewalks
Council went in-camera to discuss unspecified issues.
Pen Meets Paper
Opinion by Helge Nome
Canadians are beginning to ask themselves: “What are we doing in Afghanistan?” And the public debate does not even touch on the real reasons.
In order to understand why our elected representatives are prepared to pour a substantial proportion of our Gross Domestic Product, 18 billion dollars, into a dusty mountainous region on the other side of the world, it is necessary to take a step back and review the ongoing global chess game for power that never ends and began when life took hold on the surface of the planet.
Afghanistan has always been important to the world powers of the day because of its strategic position.
Taken from Wikipedia, here is the real reason for NATO's military presence in Afghanistan:
“The Trans-Afghanistan Pipeline (TAP or TAPI) is a proposed natural gas pipeline being developed by the Asian Development Bank. The pipeline will transport Caspian Sea natural gas from Turkmenistan through Afghanistan into Pakistan and then to India. Proponents of the project see it as a modern continuation of the Silk Road. The Afghan government is expected to receive 8% of the project's revenue
The original project started in March 1995 when an inaugural memorandum of understanding between the governments of Turkmenistan and Pakistan for a pipeline project was signed. In August 1996, the Central Asia Gas Pipeline, Ltd. (CentGas) consortium for construction of a pipeline, led by Unocal was formed. On 27 October 1997, CentGas was incorporated in formal signing ceremonies in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan by several international oil companies along with the Government of Turkmenistan. In January 1998, the Taliban, selecting CentGas over Argentinian competitor Bridas Corporation, signed an agreement that allowed the proposed project to proceed. In June 1998, Russian Gazprom relinquishes its 10% stake in the project. Unocal withdrew from the consortium on 8 December 1998.
The new deal on the pipeline was signed on 27 December 2002 by the leaders of Turkmenistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan.[1] In 2005, the Asian Development Bank submitted the final version of a feasibility study designed by British company Penspen. Since the United States military overthrew the Taliban government, the project has essentially stalled; construction of the Turkmen part was supposed to start in 2006, but the overall feasibility is questionable since the southern part of the Afghan section runs through territory which continues to be under de facto Taliban control.
On 24 April 2008, Pakistan, India and Afghanistan signed a framework agreement to buy natural gas from Turkmenistan.[2]
The 1,680 kilometres (1,040 mi) pipeline will run from the Dauletabad gas field to Afghanistan. From there TAPI will be constructed alongside the highway running from Herat to Kandahar, and then via Quetta and Multan in Pakistan. The final destination of the pipeline will be the Indian town of Fazilka, near the border between Pakistan and India.[3]
The pipeline will be 1,420 millimetres (56 in) in diameter with a working pressure of 100 atm.[3] The initial capacity will be 27 billion cubic meter (bcm) of natural gas annually of which 2 bcm will be provided to Afghanistan and 12.5 bcm to both Pakistan and India. Later the capacity will increase to 33 bcm.[4] Six compressor stations are to be constructed along the pipeline.[3] The pipeline is expected to be operational by 2014.[5]
The cost of the pipeline is estimated cost at US$7.6 billion.[2] The project is to be financed by the Asian Development Bank.[6]"
NATO is the military arm of what may be called the “Western Empire” which includes Canada, and the idea is to ultimately gain control of vast oil and gas reserves that used to be part of the Soviet Union and control the territory through which that energy is distributed. Hence our presence in Afghanistan.
The tribal people there have always resisted the intrusions into of foreigners into their territory and they have become very good at it through long practice. We are now on the receiving end of their skills, just like the Soviet soldiers used to be not so long ago.
From the point of view of the average Canadian the complete dishonesty of our politicians is a major issue: The top brass in all the political parties know exactly why our young people are being sacrificed in Afghanistan but tell the public and the young soldiers a completely different story, because the truth would be too upsetting for those that have lost loved ones.
WINNING TEAM The Caroline Colts Atom hockey team won their game against Stettler, 8 goals to 4, Saturday March 7 at the Caroline complex. They played in the Provincial Tier 3 Finals this last weekend in Legal, north of Edmonton.
The Caroline Colts team members are: Easton Harder (Goalie), Logan Neal, Cole Michalsky, Riley Westling, Dallas Johnson, Darbi Cunningham, Tanner Denham, Dylan Rauch, Andy Larsen, Denton Westling, Tristan Adrian, Cody Graham, Clay Guthrie, Beau Alstott, Jordan Maxwell. Coach Darren Denham. Assistant Coaches: Rod Neal, Cody Haney.
The Caroline Colts team members are: Easton Harder (Goalie), Logan Neal, Cole Michalsky, Riley Westling, Dallas Johnson, Darbi Cunningham, Tanner Denham, Dylan Rauch, Andy Larsen, Denton Westling, Tristan Adrian, Cody Graham, Clay Guthrie, Beau Alstott, Jordan Maxwell. Coach Darren Denham. Assistant Coaches: Rod Neal, Cody Haney.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Chamber of Commerce Looks Back At Busy Year
At its AGM last Monday at the Legion Hall, members of the Caroline & District Chamber of Commerce received a report from Chamber Manager Deana Knight on events and activities hosted by the chamber in 2008. They included a Community Meet and Greet in January, the May Long Weekend Parade, Canada Day Celebration, Federal and School Division Election Forums and Christmas Lightup. An ongoing enterprise and income generating activity for the chamber is the management of the Burnstick Lake Provincial Campground which is contracted out to private individuals every year.
After several years of service, Julie Oliver handed over her responsibilities as President to Reg Dean who was instrumental in reviving the chamber in about 2002.
The chamber is an active member of the Caroline community which is reflected in an annual dollar turnover of about $40,000.
At its AGM last Monday at the Legion Hall, members of the Caroline & District Chamber of Commerce received a report from Chamber Manager Deana Knight on events and activities hosted by the chamber in 2008. They included a Community Meet and Greet in January, the May Long Weekend Parade, Canada Day Celebration, Federal and School Division Election Forums and Christmas Lightup. An ongoing enterprise and income generating activity for the chamber is the management of the Burnstick Lake Provincial Campground which is contracted out to private individuals every year.
After several years of service, Julie Oliver handed over her responsibilities as President to Reg Dean who was instrumental in reviving the chamber in about 2002.
The chamber is an active member of the Caroline community which is reflected in an annual dollar turnover of about $40,000.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Green Light For Boys And Girls Club In Caroline
The Village Council Chamber was packed last Wednesday morning for a Municipal Planning Commission meeting to deal with a proposal from the Rocky Youth Development Society to develop a dedicated site for its Boys and Girls Club programming in Caroline. The building in question, which has been leased by the society, is located on 50th Avenue at the west end of the village, across the road from Caroline Supplies. It is currently vacant and the development proposal includes internal building upgrades and the establishment of a movie theater which can be accessed by the general public.
MPC Chairperson Kim Ceasor called the meeting to order shortly after 9am and gave those present an opportunity to present their cases and concerns before she and the other MPC members (Al Toovey and Councillor Van Dijk) discussed and made a decision on the proposal from the Rocky Youth Development Society.
Village CAO Tyler McKinnon, who is also Caroline's Development Officer, was present to give advice to the MPC during its deliberations and gave the initial presentation to those present about the proposal before the MPC, and Village requirements as per its Land Use Bylaw.
Rocky Youth Development Society President Greg Imeson made a presentation for the proposal and noted that the building had been inspected and found to be up to code. A 100 seat movie theater is planned with 18 spaces being needed for parking, which includes 7 spaces behind the building. Movie showings would be at 7pm, Thursday through Sunday. An after-school program will be hosted in the building on school days until 6pm under the supervision of staff and volunteers.
Caroline resident Al Grimshaw said that the location on a main thoroughfare was not good and suggested that the Boys and Girls Club should be hosted in the Caroline Complex following its planned expansion. A similar view was also expressed by Chris George.
Caroline Supplies owner Reg Dean said that he was not against Boys and Girls Clubs, or the activities they promote, but was against the chosen location. His main concerns were inadequate parking for the intended use of the building, traffic along the highway, congregation of youth next to his retail establishment and their negative impact on his clientelle and building deficiencies in relation to its intended use. He suggested that the Boys and Girls Club should work with the Rec/Ag Society to secure a space in the new complex.
Following its deliberations, the MPC approved the development application with the following conditions as per the minutes of the meeting: “a) All construction is undertaken in accordance with all required building permits and standards, and abides by all applicable legislation and bylaws. b) Use the 1 space to 6 seats for parking concerns as per the Land Use By-law. c) The pickup and drop-off of the Youth for the Clearwater Boys and Girls Club be at the back entrance to the building for safety reasons.”
The Village Council Chamber was packed last Wednesday morning for a Municipal Planning Commission meeting to deal with a proposal from the Rocky Youth Development Society to develop a dedicated site for its Boys and Girls Club programming in Caroline. The building in question, which has been leased by the society, is located on 50th Avenue at the west end of the village, across the road from Caroline Supplies. It is currently vacant and the development proposal includes internal building upgrades and the establishment of a movie theater which can be accessed by the general public.
MPC Chairperson Kim Ceasor called the meeting to order shortly after 9am and gave those present an opportunity to present their cases and concerns before she and the other MPC members (Al Toovey and Councillor Van Dijk) discussed and made a decision on the proposal from the Rocky Youth Development Society.
Village CAO Tyler McKinnon, who is also Caroline's Development Officer, was present to give advice to the MPC during its deliberations and gave the initial presentation to those present about the proposal before the MPC, and Village requirements as per its Land Use Bylaw.
Rocky Youth Development Society President Greg Imeson made a presentation for the proposal and noted that the building had been inspected and found to be up to code. A 100 seat movie theater is planned with 18 spaces being needed for parking, which includes 7 spaces behind the building. Movie showings would be at 7pm, Thursday through Sunday. An after-school program will be hosted in the building on school days until 6pm under the supervision of staff and volunteers.
Caroline resident Al Grimshaw said that the location on a main thoroughfare was not good and suggested that the Boys and Girls Club should be hosted in the Caroline Complex following its planned expansion. A similar view was also expressed by Chris George.
Caroline Supplies owner Reg Dean said that he was not against Boys and Girls Clubs, or the activities they promote, but was against the chosen location. His main concerns were inadequate parking for the intended use of the building, traffic along the highway, congregation of youth next to his retail establishment and their negative impact on his clientelle and building deficiencies in relation to its intended use. He suggested that the Boys and Girls Club should work with the Rec/Ag Society to secure a space in the new complex.
Following its deliberations, the MPC approved the development application with the following conditions as per the minutes of the meeting: “a) All construction is undertaken in accordance with all required building permits and standards, and abides by all applicable legislation and bylaws. b) Use the 1 space to 6 seats for parking concerns as per the Land Use By-law. c) The pickup and drop-off of the Youth for the Clearwater Boys and Girls Club be at the back entrance to the building for safety reasons.”
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Pen Meets Paper March 2 '09
Pen Meets Paper
Opinion by Helge Nome
“The bones of Alexander’s men lie deep in Afghanistan. The Mughals, a Turkic dynasty established in India in the early 16th century that later adopted the Persian language, could not with their affinity subdue the Turkic and Persian tribes in the region. The bleak, mountainous land was unkind to the British Raj during a series of Anglo-Afghan wars that started in 1839 and ended 80 years later. The Soviet invasion of 1979 was seen as a nine year immersion into Afghan hell for its army. And now, under the Obama administration, the U.S. is preparing to commit more troops, with little to show for some 3,300 casualties and the expenditure of more than $173 billion since 9/11”.
This was the introduction to an article written by a Frank Schell recently in the Wall Street Journal.
And, our own Stephen Harper was recently pinned down by an American reporter while visiting the US and asked whether Canada might be prepared to commit more troops to Afghanistan. To which he replied, to my amazement, that there had better be some expected positive outcomes before any such commitment would be contemplated. He did not believe that the “insurgency” could ever be defeated, only contained. Astounding. Stephen Harper must have finally seen fit to open a history book!
I remember Stephen Harper flying into Afghanistan shortly after his installment in the Prime Minister's chair and address our troops there with great bravado, extolling their virtues and achievements, before flying back to his comfortable home in Ottawa.
So why in Heaven's name are our politicians in Ottawa wasting some $18 billion in Afghanistan in addition to squandering the lives of more than 100 Canadians? The answer is only too plain and has nothing to do with the “improvement” in the lives of indigenous people in the area. On the contrary, it has everything to do with who controls the energy flows coming on to world markets from that general region. The real reason for the Iraq war is exactly the same.
I found Stephen Harper's frankness to be quite out of character, compared to his previous statements.
I think he knows that his days as Prime Minister of Canada are numbered and couldn't keep himself from expressing some real sentiments, rather than those he has been paid to utter in the past.
Opinion by Helge Nome
“The bones of Alexander’s men lie deep in Afghanistan. The Mughals, a Turkic dynasty established in India in the early 16th century that later adopted the Persian language, could not with their affinity subdue the Turkic and Persian tribes in the region. The bleak, mountainous land was unkind to the British Raj during a series of Anglo-Afghan wars that started in 1839 and ended 80 years later. The Soviet invasion of 1979 was seen as a nine year immersion into Afghan hell for its army. And now, under the Obama administration, the U.S. is preparing to commit more troops, with little to show for some 3,300 casualties and the expenditure of more than $173 billion since 9/11”.
This was the introduction to an article written by a Frank Schell recently in the Wall Street Journal.
And, our own Stephen Harper was recently pinned down by an American reporter while visiting the US and asked whether Canada might be prepared to commit more troops to Afghanistan. To which he replied, to my amazement, that there had better be some expected positive outcomes before any such commitment would be contemplated. He did not believe that the “insurgency” could ever be defeated, only contained. Astounding. Stephen Harper must have finally seen fit to open a history book!
I remember Stephen Harper flying into Afghanistan shortly after his installment in the Prime Minister's chair and address our troops there with great bravado, extolling their virtues and achievements, before flying back to his comfortable home in Ottawa.
So why in Heaven's name are our politicians in Ottawa wasting some $18 billion in Afghanistan in addition to squandering the lives of more than 100 Canadians? The answer is only too plain and has nothing to do with the “improvement” in the lives of indigenous people in the area. On the contrary, it has everything to do with who controls the energy flows coming on to world markets from that general region. The real reason for the Iraq war is exactly the same.
I found Stephen Harper's frankness to be quite out of character, compared to his previous statements.
I think he knows that his days as Prime Minister of Canada are numbered and couldn't keep himself from expressing some real sentiments, rather than those he has been paid to utter in the past.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Pen Meets Paper Feb 23 '09
Pen Meets Paper
Opinion by Helge Nome
The Stelmach government in Alberta is relying on the apathy of local people for a money grab with historical precedents unbeknown to this writer. Premier Ed Stelmach (“Honest Eddie”) has pledged $2billion to develop carbon sequestration technology to save the planet from ecological destruction. In comparison, the Federal government has pledged $1billion and the US government is kicking in $3billion. In order to gain a sense opf proportion, Alberta currently has 3.3million people living within its borders, Canada has 33million souls and the US lays claim to 306million bipods (excluding chickens and such).
So my message to Honest Eddie goes as follows:
“Hey, Ed it must feel good to set yourself up as the saviour of the world by mortgaging the lives of present and future Albertans so that your friendly oil and gas company buddies can pat you on the back and make you feel important. Seeing yourself as a major player on the World Stage must be a real buzz! And now you are going to borrow the money, on our behalf, from your banking buddies at interest plus principal repayable.
Eddie, do you know how these buddies of yours find the money to lend to you? I'm sure you know but wouldn't like anyone else to know so I'll tell'em: They make it up. Just like that! Plug a number into a computer program and, voila!, your money is there for you. Who says there is no magic in this world?
So as you can see, Eddie, you have excelled in your duty to your masters and will no doubt be rewarded with a comfortable board appointment, or two, at the end of your natural political life. By that time your employers will likely have somebody lined up to take your place and hopefully continue the work of making Alberta America's energy mining pit at the expense of Albertans.”
Opinion by Helge Nome
The Stelmach government in Alberta is relying on the apathy of local people for a money grab with historical precedents unbeknown to this writer. Premier Ed Stelmach (“Honest Eddie”) has pledged $2billion to develop carbon sequestration technology to save the planet from ecological destruction. In comparison, the Federal government has pledged $1billion and the US government is kicking in $3billion. In order to gain a sense opf proportion, Alberta currently has 3.3million people living within its borders, Canada has 33million souls and the US lays claim to 306million bipods (excluding chickens and such).
So my message to Honest Eddie goes as follows:
“Hey, Ed it must feel good to set yourself up as the saviour of the world by mortgaging the lives of present and future Albertans so that your friendly oil and gas company buddies can pat you on the back and make you feel important. Seeing yourself as a major player on the World Stage must be a real buzz! And now you are going to borrow the money, on our behalf, from your banking buddies at interest plus principal repayable.
Eddie, do you know how these buddies of yours find the money to lend to you? I'm sure you know but wouldn't like anyone else to know so I'll tell'em: They make it up. Just like that! Plug a number into a computer program and, voila!, your money is there for you. Who says there is no magic in this world?
So as you can see, Eddie, you have excelled in your duty to your masters and will no doubt be rewarded with a comfortable board appointment, or two, at the end of your natural political life. By that time your employers will likely have somebody lined up to take your place and hopefully continue the work of making Alberta America's energy mining pit at the expense of Albertans.”
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