America in the fight of its life...

These are the opening words to this honest and sensible 1 minute address to Congress from congressman Dennis Kuchinich. Is this over simplistic or the basis of truth? You be the judge.

Ahh good old home style politics..

Our PM Steven Harper prorogued (parliament) until March...guess a little more vacation time was in order...or was it? What motivated the PM to suspend our democracy? I would love to hear your views on this, watch first video here .
For fun check this one out on the same issue.

Political/Visionary Confusion

This article by Gerald Caplan is too important to just make a brief comment about and I'll take in up in class one day soon. The jest of it is depressing as he says 'progressives' or those with liberal leanings as losing the battle for a just society. I believe it is quite the opposite, rather in times of crisis such that we are in, those who hold power unjustly use it to try to keep the 'old' in place but the momentum will force anew way of thinking, which will lead to progressive action...more on this in class.

Bust gutting hiliariious...

Ok, someone find me something like this from Canada...yes US based but as they still set the agenda, worth while watching...have fun!

Politics by the numbers

Graham Thomson is the best, in my opinion, political commenter on Alberta politics. He casts numbers on support for parties in Alberta and certainly there are some surprises. The biggest one for me is the support the Alliance party holds. It is no surprise that people are tired of the Conservatives given their track record and what is happening in health care. Yet, is the Alliance party any different in terms of policy...look them up and I think you'd find they are even scarier than the PC's...only in Alberta, take a peek at the numbers.

Christmas music..feet up and relaxed

Yep, taking a breather for the next couple of day and listening to some music...may not be your type but if so enjoy!

Military Spending...sighhhh

I was reading an article re: Copenhagen and how the U.S. wants to commit 100 billion by '2020' for poorer countries came across this link. As the world's military spending hit close to 1.5 trillion last year I shake my head that a 100 billion cannot be found to fight climate change NOW when it's needed!

Martin Luther King...Xmas Sermon on Peace

1967 seems so far away and certainly segregation does not plague our times yet so many of his words still makes sense as we are still in his words a, " bewildered race". You know I rant against war and believe that only brotherhood (sisterhood) will truly 'set us free'. Is it naive to believe this? I believe the problem is that we stopped believing and more importantly acting on that 'dream'. If you have the time (this is about half hour long) take a listen and reflect if his words ring true to this day...I believe they do.

Personal message to those who take the time to read the word I type and take in the stories I post: have a wonderful holiday and know that I'll never stop working towards that 'dream' for you and yours.TC

A Growth Industry I don't want to see in Canada...

...but in the U.S. the endless wars are creating opportunities with also sorts of benefits! The one benefit that sticks in my mind is the following:  Free "stress reduction" programs for children at Fort Bliss? What a way to gain employment huh...can you think of other sectors that could grow rather than the business of death...cake it all you want, it is what it is and not one I would want to see grow in Canada. 3 min video here

More on the lunitc fringe...

I know I have a post about the nimrods on Fox news but this post hits a short video that summarizes what those of us in the centre or left of centre (liberal thinkers) are up against. I kinda feel sorry for Obama, he must be having a terrible time trying to do anything with these nut cases after folks like him. 

Ok Fox News is a piece of crap...

What dribble that comes from the mouths of some of these nut cases. They put down our military and character to make themselves feel better. Yet, look at the pitiful state they find themselves in. You got to watch this (keep barf bucket handy) but don't forget to laugh at the stupidity you're about to see.  But also know that there ARE  progressive elements in the US that are thoughtful and counter these clowns like this video that responds to the Fox buffoons. If you want to do the work and find out what's behind Fox's beliefs, watch clips from the movie Outfoxed found here. Signing off...shaking my head. (TY Stephanie)

Copenhagen protesters arrested...

...surprise, surprise 100, 000 people gather to push the most important progressive agenda of our time...climate change action and the lines of police come out (story here, ty Emmett). Indicative of say Seattle in 1999? How about at the North American leaders summit in Montebello, Que. in 2007? This time police were actually trying to incite violence undercover (of course officially they wouldn't admit it) at that protest (another source here). Am I suggesting that all violence is done by legitimate sources, well of course not always, as there are some in a crowd that wreck things for others. What bothers me about this is that the focus of what the protest is about is lost to the violence and distraction the media focuses on. There are very few times I wish I were wealthy, but if I was, I'd be marching the streets of Copenhagen RIGHT NOW!!!!!

So this is Christmas

 John Lennon was an awesome guy,  my favorite song is Imagine but I always enjoyed this song at Christmas time, hope you do as well.

Obama's not dealing with 'bread and butter' issues...come on now..

This is what I call the 'pot calling the kettle black'. Karl Rove and Bill O'Reilly have the odasity of accusing Obama of being off base by focusing on health care and environmental issues. First, these gents (pinheads) and particularly Rove as Bush's chief adviser are responsible for America's mess. I'm not happy with Obama, especially in escalating troops in Afghanistan but come on, to suggest Obama's policies do not concern bread and butter issues is simply stupid (hmmm Bush's adviser what more to say). When it is reported that half the personal bankruptcies in the US are related to health care costs is that not a 'bread and butter' issue? If dealing with environmental impacts of climate change that will effect the future generations not a 'bread and butter' issue, what is? Same old tired dribble from the land of make believe far right wing nuts...video is short and worth watching to see how these uh...'guys' criticize Obama.   

Copenhagen Won't Be Enough...

Only a 'Human Movement' Can Save Civilization from the Climate Crisis...this is the title of this awesome article found here. This quote from Einstein captures the momentum of the article:
"You cannot solve a problem from the same consciousness that created it. You must learn to see the world anew."

Want to take on what is meant by this quote and what the 'new' way of seeing is? Webct me and I'll give you an optional assignment.

Uranium...deadly in weapons but also beyond

This film is dated as it was produced in 1990 but it's story is still powerful. Not only does the film caution us about the effects of uranium mining but how it also had (has) and impact of displacing first nations people. If you choose to view this and would like an optional assignment afterwords, let me know. This link to the national film board is worth exploring for many other Canadian films worth viewing. Here's the link.

Nuclear Disarmament...Ban calls for a plan

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon calls on nations to work towards nuclear disarmament. Yes, it is over do, but where's the beef? Keeping my fingers crossed for now.

Rio de Janeiro, 1992 UN conference

Today (Dec. 7th) the most important conference of the 21st century is underway. Given the track record of UN conferences like the video you are about to see from the Rio conference or Kyoto (ratified July, 1997) do we see promise in the current conference? This impassioned speech delivered at Rio de Janeiro by a young girl always makes me think of how we 'adults' of the world are failing to deliver a better world. Let's hope hope the needed action takes shape.  Here is the video. 

Amazing Display of Bicycle talent

Ok, I know this isn't the usual stuff i deal with but if you need a 5 minute eye opener check this out. This young person on a bike is doing things that I thought would be impossible .... until now.

Children and Armed Conflict

You know I rant all the time against war as a means of conflict resolution...as it DOES NOT WORK! Yet, what's more appalling to me is the use of children in the fight for whatever the cause is conjured up to be. The images you'll see of these children are not what children at this age should experience. The trauma they must go through on a daily basis and long after the conflict is over, has to be hard to overcome. Thank goodness there are people out there that care and are trying to do something about this. For it's faults, and the UN has many, it also tries to do its best in helping end the use of child soldiers. This link contains pictures but also a powerful short video, if you get a chance please view, we'll take this up as we will be doing the UN in class in about a week. Click here.

If only Republicans held power...duh they did...

...and what did they do with their power when they controlled the Presidency and the House? According to this short rant by Senator Hatch the following would happen: Hatch predicted that if Republicans had 60 votes and control of all three branches of government, they would “get this country under control” Incredible that there is no sense of responsibility for the mess Obama inherited (crumbling economy, wars etc.) but only if republicans ruled again...excuse me I gotta find my barf bucket...view this 35 sec. rant at own risk. 

Water, water, everywhere???

Sometimes a picture as they say is worth a thousand words, how about a picture? This picture is disturbing, especially when you look at China in 1995 and then again in 2025. Of course climate change is not issue. Take a peek.

Cap and Trade - Solution ot Climate Change?

As I've suggested before we are a few days away from the most important environmental conference (Dec.7 Copenhagen) since Kyoto. My question: Will it be a search for real solutions or as this short thoughtful video suggests or with bogus solutions that are 'distractions' not concrete steps to save this planet from climate change impacts. You be the judge, take a look.
 I don't know about you but I think the answers to the Climate Change crisis lies in sustainability. Or as those who advocate an green economy that:
1 sets out to meet human needs, whilst also protecting the capacity of natural systems to support life.
2 does not use natural resources faster than they can be replenished by the planet;
3 does not deposit wastes faster than they can be absorbed.
Seems pretty simple to me but do we have the will to travel this path? 

Ban approves Obama's Plan ????

I am torn on this one. 30,000 more troops (and 10,000 more from allies) is being approved by the UN General Secretary Ban Ki-moon. On one hand I agree that Afghanistan needs to develop it's own security plan and as such the troop deployment can help with that. On the other hand, I'm doubtful on success of this plan as the people see this is a military occupation and hence will not submit. Tough one to call but I've always believed that more violence benefits no one but defense contractors. One pager on Ban's perspective here.

Charter for Compassion

While on a social studies PD at Jasper Place School, I viewed a very powerful video presented to us by JP's principal, Jean Stiles. The video is an outgrowth of a NGO movement that is promoting a CHARTER FOR COMPASSION.  It is I believe worth viewing and you can sign on if you'd like...I did. Here it is.

Afghanistan Time to Get out?

Keith Olbermann suggests that Obama makes good on his promise to find an exit strategy NOW instead of calling for more troops first. The republican's seem to suggest the job is not over but will it ever be? Is sending more troops going to lead to a peace when the people of Afghanistan believe more and more that this is not a war of reconstruction but one of occupation. If this is true, should we continue to send our troops there? I would love to hear some of your comments on this. Have a look.

Climate Change = More Armed Conflict?

When the UN secretary Ban Ki-moon suggests that the conflict in Drafur (Sudan) can be attributed to Climate Change (formally know as Global Warming) it is worth taking note...read on if you are interested.

Palestinian Solidarity

International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, is observed annually on 29 November. This day recognizes the plight of the Palestinian's to have their own homeland side by side to Israel. Ban Ki-moon, the Secretary General of the United Nations feels the need to create the homeland from the 1967 borders as set out by resolution 242 and the orignal resolution of 181 in 1947. To read Ban's short article, click here and/or to see a map of the two state solution would look like, click here.

Shades of 1984 ... OUR border patrol

This story shocked me but at the same time didn't surprise me. Amy Goodman is the host of an alternative and well respected new source Democracy Now in the United States. Given the health care debate raging in the United states, she wanted to explore Canada's system and it's key originators work Tommy Douglas (see older posts on Tommy Douglas). Her  experience with Canadian boarder patrol can be found here. To visit what Ms Goodman does (I do occasionally, as I do appreciate true democratic debate) click on this link. I find it unjustifiable that Canada can question the integrity of a person like Mr Goodman and give her a 'time limit' to be here. Perhaps next time I travel the mountains of Montana on my scooter, I'll be scrutinized as she was, after all I question the mainstream media (US, here and else where all the time)... hey will you donate to my release if I'm put behind bars? I'm reminded of a quote from George Orwell which captures this blog....  In a time of universal deceit - telling the truth is a revolutionary act!

Jane Goodall, more than Chimp Lady

In a marvelous audio interview with Bill Moyer's (world renowned journalist), Jane provides her experience working with Chimps and the lessons it's taught her about ourselves. My suggestion visit this website.  Then as you visit the website please read the page of Jane's reason for Hope for humanity. As you investigate the site click this link and listen to the first 10-15 minutes of audio as mentioned so you can listen to her key ideas. I believe you'll find it valuable if you are concerned about the environment. I was particular moved by the establishment of the Roots and Shoots youth program by teenagers in Tanzinia and now spreading throughout the world...maybe you have an idea for a local Roots and Shoots program? UPDATE I found the video interview for Ms Goodall, worth watching here.

Women of the world unite!

November 25th is recognized as the start of action against violence against women. This short article explains why the awareness period is needed and has links for further exploration. Read on

Sarah Palin advice for Canada

On health care Sarah gives our own star of this hour has 22 minutes some advice on Canadian Health care....let the private sector take over of course! Well, that sinks it, where's did I put that petition to privatize health care???? Hmmm... look for it soon, in the meantime take a couple of minutes to laugh...at least I did lol

Fighting Poverty in Alberta..

Recently we've discuss the increased use of the food bank thus poverty issues come along with this increase. This article focuses on what's needed for a strategy on dealing with poverty...your thoughts? Can also read the story from CBC on very issue, not the difference in coverage from Journal to CBC.  In a related story, joblessness increases...hmmm a connection I believe, read it here.

Only in America? think again...

Scary to think of Aryan racists in Canada, but of course it happens. Does it happen enough to be of concern? To me, one attack against anyone is attack against all, what do you think?

Olbermann's original health care pitch

As I watched Mr Olbermann's appeal for a system 'against death' I was shell shocked. It was an appeal for health care that made me so very proud to be a Canadian. That Canadian's took on this fight (see blogg on Tommy Douglas) in the late 60's and won against politicians and medical interests who wanted to keep the system private. Do you as an adult citizen feel our system is worth fighting for? Are you aware of the arguments against our system? What steps are you ready to take to defend our system? Perhaps a system of 'choice' as claimed down south is what you'd like, if so are you ready to defend and take a stand for it? Make no mistake about it, these choices are coming, what will your response be? Here's Olberman ...

Roots of the end of Cold War

Quite an interesting article and certainly a lot of truth in it. It is popularly believed that Reagan was key player in the end of the Cold War but not really. I used to tell student's back in the late 80's that Eastern Europe would want to revert back to their 'own' roots be it socialist or capitalist and this article seems to point to that...two page read.

The Military Industrial Complex

Late President Eisenhower in his farewell address in 1961 warned of a complext that would engulf America in a permanent military economy. This means, that war becomes as much a staple as building automobiles. I wonder if we could make some good coin peddling peace instead of war...what a thought? The 34 th Commander and Chief speaks.

1 minute to save the world

This is a interesting site featuring 1 minute videos on climate change and other environmental issues. I looked at a few and I enjoyed the one you see right away but please do click on the I minute to save the world to go to main site and preview more 1 minute videos. Let me know what you think of the site and if I should  post a link on the main social studies webpage. Click here to begin

COP15's Indigenous voices

Some information from Indigenous perspective on climate change in upcoming conference in Copenhagen. The accompanying video features clips from different videos to be shown. Some wonderful images to take in ...click here to view.  

The Nutballs are after Obama

Whether you are a fan of Obama or not, are the attacks against him warranted? I couldn't believe the citing of the bible against him, you gotta see it to believe it! Here it is. Yeah, there more, unbelievable!!!

Amazing how republicans can deny health reform

Look at this chart and tell me why a repulican would deny a health bill that would offer more coverage, it boggles the mind!

Here is an excerpt from article: 
The diagnosis isn't pretty for Republicans committed to denying the health care their constituents need most of all. The 2009 rankings (above) reveal that nine of the top 10 healthiest states voted for Barack Obama in 2008. Conversely, 9 of the 10 cellar dwellers backed John McCain in 2008; four years earlier, the 15 unhealthiest states voted for George W. Bush for President.

Tuition Caps Gone?

The Alberta government is considering letting post secondary institutions raise tuition as they need to avert debt. But what will it mean for students...take a look.

Tax Time...that will be $ per mile!

One way to discourage car usage and hence reduce environmental impacts, charge by the kilometer like the Dutch are planning to do. What do you think?

Voting Against Public Health Care

I was fascinated by the 'intelligent' and thought provoking thoughts of these republicans who were rushing to congress to vote AGAINST the public health care option. Perhaps our politicians in Canada who are supporting more private health care are listening to the type of wisdom spoken in these short videos... I sure hope not!!!.http://crooksandliars.com/mike-stark/three-unreal-videos-0

Mayan Calendar - Hilarious

According to the Mayan people, the world will certainly end in 2012 but not through the predicated disasters ... watch and find out why! http://crooksandliars.com/media/play/wmv/10704/32683


For something more serious on the 'end' check out this site, includes an informative video http://hubpages.com/hub/Mayan-Calendar

Media Manipulation

It is commonly thought that media is the 'vanguard' of democratic institutions. An independent media ensures that people get the 'real scoop' on what's happening. Below is a link to how manipulation is used to create a certain bias http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGqPxn7njqM&NR=1&feature=fvwp

Do conservatives really believe that if you mock conservatives you probably are one? Incredible, check this one out http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0VacVwpF2E&NR=1

Pay for internet use?

Rupert Murdoch is a media mogul that believes the 'net' should not be 'free'. Are these moguls not 'rich enough'? Does the freedom allowed by the net threaten their existence (Lord if it was only true!)? This is the same guy who accuses Obama of being a 'racist'. Ok time to go play some resistance music...enjoy. http://crooksandliars.com/john-amato/rupert-murdoch-wants-charge-internet-se

Mouseland - Tommy Douglas

Mouseland is a story told by a man awarded the distinction of being the "greatest Canadian" in a nation wide vote in November of 2004. He is also known for being celebrated as the 'father of medicare' in Canada. I want you to look at this video:  http://unionsforsinglepayerhr676.org/videos/2009-07-25-video_by_tommy_douglas_father_of_canadian_healthcare As we are currently taking up political theory I would like you to respond to the following questions: What is the distinction/s between the cats and mice? Why do you think mice keep on voting in the cats? How can we use the message of the video to advance the purpose of democracy? Please send your thoughts via webct and a half page or more is worthy of a bonus mark towards next major exam.


For more on Tommy Douglas copy and paste this link into your browser :http://archives.cbc.ca/society/celebrations/topics/1455/

Marketing War

Short video shows how the propaganda machine worked (works) to sell war. This example used the invasion of Iraq of 2003 and features Bill Moyer an extraordinary journalist who puts it all together. What is the responsibility of media to report the 'truth'? How much evidence is needed before plunging a country into a war? How can we as citizens be sure that our Canadian soldiers are in a war that is just?  I'd love to hear your thoughts on these questions.

 There are several parts to the video, however first part provides most of what you need.http://www.pbs.org/moyers/journal/btw/watch.html

Shock Doctrine - Naomi Klein

Ms Klein's view of national 'shock' being the underlying cause of economic/political upheaval is an interesting and somewhat true statement. Her use of electro schock therapy certainly made an impact in showing the unsettling effects of shock. I'd love to hear comments from you on this short 6 minute film. Url is as follows.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSF0e6oO_tw

To visit Naomi Klein's web page to find out more about this and other work go to:

http://www.naomiklein.org/main