Saturday afternoon, a lovely day in southern Ontario at thirty degrees and 95 cents American.
My friend decides to take advantage of the near-par currency for some shopping therapy in Buffalo. She hits the QEW about fifty clicks from the border, and the whole shebang heading west towards upstate New York is ground to a halt. Finally an advisory sign comes into view saying the wait to cross into the States – once the bridge is reached – is two hours.
“So many people were making a run for the border that we turned around and went home,†she said, “feeling rather guilty about our misplaced economic loyalty.â€
Well, hundreds of thousands of other guiltless Canadians are in the process of spending tens of millions of dollars a day in Michigan, New York, Maine, Washington and other neighbouring states. It is a hemorrhage we surely do not need, and just one consequence of the unprecedented appreciation in the dollar since the last federal budget.
Another is the loss of about 50,000 manufacturing jobs, mostly in southern Ontario. Windsor alone has seen 10,000 go so far this year and, as the Ambassador bridge to Detroit is packed daily with Canadian shoppers, the city is also in the midst of a retailing crisis. As the dollar shoots so high, so fast, Canadian exports become less competitive; manufacturers have too little time to adjust; and cheaper imports flood into the country. It is a perfect storm for job loss.
A few days after the budget – which increased government sending to unprecedented levels and was clearly inflationary – I asked Jim Flaherty in the House of Commons if he worried about the sudden spike in the currency and its impact on the economy.
He did not answer me. Instead, Conservative House Leader Peter van Loan stood up and told me to resign. No other MP pursued my line of questioning. And today the highway going to America was jammed with people while whole industrial parks have gone silent.
But this is just one problem. Perhaps not the most serious.
This past week the US central bank pumped some $70 billion into the financial markets to prevent a stock market meltdown and a credit crisis of global proportions. Bankers in Canada, Britain and France, among others, did the same. Hedge funds in the United States and Germany, among other places, have stopped allowing panicked investors to cash out, because they have just about gone bust. Mortgages this past week became instantly harder to get in the US due to a credit crunch, as stock markets take a dive and the subprime mortgage market collapses.
As homebuyers find if more difficult and more expensive to borrow, fewer of them close deals. This is creating the conditions under which the American real estate collapse is picking up speed. Demand for housing is sinking just as adjustable mortgage rates are rising and equity is evaporating as home prices decline.
And are we immune? Ask that question in eight months. Maybe six. Maybe less.
What does all of this have to do with the federal budget and Jim Flaherty? Simply that the thunder rolling over the global financial landscape, and especially the United States, did not instantly materialize in the last few days or weeks. In fact, readers of this blog were discussing the subprime market, the American housing meltdown and the implications for Canada months ago.
With the Americans spending $150 billion a year on Iraq, running massive deficits, adding a trillion dollars in new debt and facing a freaked-out consumer at home – all the time accounting for 70% of our export sales – you’d thing our finance minister would be paying heed. But, sadly, no.
The Harper Party’s budget has increased spending by twice the inflation rate, essentially spent the surplus, goosed inflation and fostered higher interest rates. This is not, repeat, not, what you want to do when there’s a hurricane bearing down on you. The odds are that, given current events, we will see more unemployed and more demands on government, along with reduced tax revenues and less economic activity, just as Ottawa is committing itself to an endless river of new cheques.
The high-spending, high-dollar, rising-rate and inflationary policies of Mr. Flaherty are massively imprudent.
Did you expect this of Conservatives?
119 comments ↓
I saw a piece on the news – Manitobans going south to shop for kids for school. The journalist bought stuff in Canada that came to $39.00. Bought exactly the same stuff in the US and it cost $31.00 – $9.00 savings BUT the cost going there didn’t include gas.
To me it wouldn’t be worth it.
Whoa – boy I’m having a bad day – I meant to say $8.00 savings (typo). I’m sorry.
No. I did not expect this from the Conservatives. What you describe is Liberal behaviour.
Strange about those manufacturing jobs. The most recent employment figures this week said that 25,000 NEW manufacturing jobs were created last month.
My question: do the new jobs help offset the phased out manufacturing jobs?
What specific industries in the manufacturing sector are growing and expanding and which are not able to compete and therefore cutting back?
My next comment is about the Harper spending. You say they “spent” the surplus? Do you include paying down 22 BILLION on the nearly 1/2 trillion dollar debt in the past 18 months as spending?
So much negativity, so much pessimism. Is this what it means to be a Liberal Garth? You didn’t mention anything about the 27000 manufacturing jobs created in Ontario last month, and you didn’t mention anything about the unemployment rate being the lowest in 33 years. It’s hard to be positive when your a Liberal these days isn’t it Garth?
Dell
Month-over month there was a gain, mostly in seasonal manufacturing jobs (summer work). Year-over-year, manufacturing is down 52,600 jobs. — Garth
Garth
Are you trying to be intentionally specious or is this satire?
Your friend was heading for the border…but if I read this correctly..so were you.
Disuaded by the wait time you returned a changed man? Was this your road to Damascas?
Ummm Garth…the last time the Canuck dollar was this strong was….sometime in the late 70′s.
The Lord and Saviour his emminence, one PET was at the helm. There was also some kind of “energy crisis” going on.
Beimg a good conservative I’m sure you remember names like Robert Stanfield and Joe Whatshisface.
Wage and price controls…05/litre taxes and all that. Thank god (Pierre) was there with something different.
Things are so much different now. The dollar is strong based on the resource economy. The middle east is so much more stable, the unionized production sector is so much more productive with much more less of a pension liability.
Yeppers…and to add to that we have some pretenders to the big chair in this country who would fix all these problems by transfering billions to China to assuage their consumptive guilt.
A perfect storm indeed.
Syncro
The high-spending, high-dollar, rising-rate and inflationary policies of Mr. Flaherty are massively imprudent.
Did you expect this of Conservatives?
Of course this is what the Conservatives did the last time they were in power. The Liberals were left to clean up a $40 billion dollar deficit,which they did and then proceeded to generate several years of consecutive surpluses and generate the strongest financial performance of any G8 country.
This could have been continued for several more years were it not for some opportunistic Liberal Party members who used the fear of separation to manipulate both the Liberal Party and the National Unity funds to the benefit of their friends and themselves. Thankfully most of them are disgraced or in jail.
Unfortunately for us the taxpayer the Harper Party manipulated the PC Party and got control to win a minority and along with the Blockheads whose stated objective is the breakup of Canada are both working in partnership.
One out of it’s lust for power and the other because of idealogy.
Time to break out the hard hats and the recession shelters as things will get worse before they get better because 2009 seems like such a long time to wait for another clean-up crew.
The economic crash in North America is planned, how else will they usher in the New World Order?
With the collapse of currencies the people will except the Amero and North American Union.
Those that don’t like it can spend their time in FEMA camps, Fairbanks had one that hold 2 million people!
Did I expect this of Conservatives?
No.
Did I expect this of Harper the manipulator?
Yes.
Governing and leading people effectively requires absolute integrity. There simply is no other way to govern or lead people successfully.
Manipulating people effectively requires the abandonment of any and all core principles in order to find apparent no-lose situations to inject yourself into.
Leading people effectively is an immersive slow process that is borne of a continual sincere involvement with people. There simply are no shortcuts, but the long-term benefits are tremendous.
Manipulating people effectively requires taking immediate advantage of emerging opportunities oftentimes using people and their emotions (i.e. an insincere involvement with people). It’s all about short-cuts and short-term spikes in results.
Harper is a manipulator and has been a manipulator his entire life. He simply knows nothing else. His long, slow, growth has been in the area of manipulation of people and situations for his own personal benefit.
Did I expect this of Harper?
Oh yah.
Time is always a manipulator’s enemy.
Sincerely,
MB
Did you expect this of Conservatives?
posted by Garth Turner on 08.11.07 @ 11:19 pm |
Not to play on words but I see very few Conservatives in the CPC. They are basically a dictorial reform party that has lost its direction in the thirst for a majority government. When it comes to being fiscal conservatives, that title really belongs in the red party. Social conservatives and right wingers, I am yet to understand the difference. The same I might add for leftist and social liberals.
I did expect the CPC to be an open, ethical, transparent, and accountable government as was promised, and there I am terribly disappointed.
With regrard to Mr. Flaherty, his mismanagement of the Ontario finances should have been a red flag from the outset. That is why I find the McGuinty lie on taxes so unpalitable. Everyone in the province knew the state of affairs in Queens Park and yet he made that bold face lying promise in spite of it.
Back to the question, I would suggest Convservatives, other than the few in the Liberal party, have gone the way of the DoDo bird. There will be a resurrection however as we face some very difficult times. Under whose banner, I do not know! Horefully independents will lead the way.
Thanks Garth, for I was one who asked for just such info. Sorry to say Garth but I even expected worst if that was possible. But I may still be correct because there are indeed many things that have been done beyond public eyes that have not surfaced. PMSH is a dictator and y’all can get bet your last dollar should he be allowed to continue he will ensure the well is dry and the records are shedded before he leaves… take note fellow posters and remember. God, how I wish I were wrong! but damage has been done as stated by Garth.
Did you expect this of Conservatives?
posted by Garth Turner on 08.11.07 @ 11:19 pm
I expect this of any government in a minority situation, as it will employ the learned art of buying votes with tax payers money and further mortgaging the future.
I would add that the success of Jean Cretien’s governments wasn’t based on their skill and prowess, but merely on a low dollar. It doesn’t take a genius to succeed in competing when you have a 35 to 40% advantage. Economics 101.
Old Jean was smilin’ the whole time!
I’m Jean-I-am. I’m Jean-I-am.
I do not like that Preston man.
He swiped my Big Red Book of Fibs
And leaked it out before I did.
I told the world the cupboard’s bare.
But look inside — there’s billions there!
For health and books and works of art.
Buy your vote? I’ll do my part!
I’m Jean-I-am. I’m Jean-I-am.
I do not like that Preston man.
I do not like him in this race.
I do not like him in my face.
He found my book under the sink.
Just look — it says Quebec’s distinct!
And no tax cuts, but I don’t care.
Really now, who else is there?
But Jean-I-am to save the day,
With your tax bucks, which you will pay
So I can bribe you for your vote.
We’re Liberals here, we do not gloat.
Last time I said no GST.
Don’t you know you can’t trust me?
That’s Red Book One, here’s Red Book Two.
I’ll fool you twice, and shame on you!
I’m Jean-I-am. I’m Jean-I-am.
I do not like that Preston man.
But no harm done, I am pure Grit.
You know the word that rhymes with it.
That was erudite. – Garth
“This could have been continued for several more years were it not for some opportunistic Liberal Party members who used the fear of separation to manipulate both the Liberal Party and the National Unity funds to the benefit of their friends and themselves. Thankfully most of them are disgraced or in jail.”
Tut Tut, now you know you are not supposed to remind them of their indiscretions. If you do, you run the risk of being called a bigot by the dodo birds. Apparently, in the new order, Canadians are supposed to come off the assembly line sans memory.
The poem that GREG entered above is also listed here as part of the Yuks ‘R’ Us! website.
MB
OT – For Security Reasons
Bruce MacKinnon’s cartoon in today’s Chronicle Herald. No wonder he’s won national & international awards.
http://www.thechronicleherald.ca/toon.php
These days the thing about the cross-border shopping doesn’t bother me all that much since its very much a perceivable sign of the Ricardian trade balance in action. (trade balance before inflation, Garth. Global availability of product is raising the floor on supply) What comes to mind for me is all that GST boom money that’s not going to be making it into Ottawa’s coffers. I expect it be a factor in putting an end to the “can’t spend it fast enough” days at the DoF. What remains to be seen is how much of a factor it is.
We have a 95 cent dollar yet no reduction in the cost of goods sold in Canada.Sounds like the importers are padding their margins!
The almost par dollar is not luring Canadians across the border-it’s the greed of Canadian importers not lowering their prices.
I don’t have any sympathy for Canadian retailers hurt by cross border shopping. The prices have not been adjusted to reflect our higher dollar. Not that I shop in the U.S. a lot but if the exact same product is substantially cheaper across the line then the retailers can look to see why their sales of such products are declining.
Garth,
And need I remind you that by all of those shoppers crossing the border to shop, it is helping the bottom line of the export manufacturers that are doing so poorly.
The issue I have is why we aren’t seeing prices drop in Canada with the new, higher exchange rate, the cost of the things that I am buying here should be going down. Of course they aren’t as the import sector is making a killing.
So much for patriot behaviour. If I didn’t live so far from the border, I too would cross to shop just to stick it to the greedy importer who is making a killing having priced their wares when the $ was in the 70-80 cent range and is making that 10 – 15 cent gain on the exchange.
Finally, I’m in the process of looking to purchase a new(er) vehicle (mine is 9 years old). Guess what, I can still buy the same vehicle in the states at prices that are $5,000 or more CHEAPER than I can get at the Canadian dealer. Factor in the price of a flight, it makes perfect economic sense for me to buy on-line and fly to the US to drive it back.
So, Garth, why don’t you use your considerable influence and have something done about the price of vehicles being sold in Canada (made in Ontario). Amazing how everyone bitches about the price of gas when it goes up 5 cents a litre (by the way what is price out East now? 92? No comments about that is there — hypocrites) and yet a price differential that would exceed (easily) what I pay for gas for the entire year seems to go without comment/criticism. I wonder why the LIberal party (McTeague?) isn’t investigating the ‘collusion’ that seems to exist given the market’s (automobile industry’s) inability to react to the forces of the market. Is something afoot?
Ed the Hun
Another question — given the obvious ‘patriotism’ of those purported to be represented by those who post on this blog, why are so many Ontarians being ‘anti-Canadian’ and crossing the border to shop? Shouldn’t they see it as an issue that would require them to override their personal benefit for the benefit of those manufacturers that so numerously exist in the Ontario?
If you ask me, I would expect a response similar to the ‘Buy Alberta Beef’ campaign that happened a few years ago given the BSE problem that arose and the US’ closing of their border to the Cdn beef farmers’ biggest market. Where is the organized, buy Canadian campaign? If the manufacturers in Ontario are doing as poorly as you portray, this would seem like a logical response.
Ed the Hun
“Well, hundreds of thousands of other guiltless Canadians are in the process of spending tens of millions of dollars a day in Michigan, New York, Maine, Washington and other neighbouring states. It is a hemorrhage we surely do not need, and just one consequence of the unprecedented appreciation in the dollar since the last federal budget.”
Garth, cross border shopping does not truly impact manufacturing, as Canada and US have their products manufactured in China (Liberals favourite resort destination) and India. Canadian border retailing may feel the pinch, if they don’t pass along the exchange rate savings to the consumers (including gas).
Canada still enjoys a huge trade surplus with the USA; however, Canada is suffering a huge trade deficit with China.
BTW: how’s Paul Martin and Maurice Strong doing these days? You do recall that Martin outsourced his Canada Steam Ships ship building to China, while he was the Finance Minister?
By Ed the Hun on 08.12.07 9:17 am
Whilst you can buy a car in the u.s. for 5000 less than here, you will find the car is built in the u.s., and therefore scrap! Never again will I buy a car made in Canada or the u.s.
Catherine – that little dig in the end was rather unnecessary and not related at all.
Should we start to put little digs about the CPC and past in too for balance. My dear, it’s not working.
I’m buying Canadian as much as possible. We all should, especially the farm products.
Question for all of the Conservatives, who could not but do everything they possibly could to run down Paul Martin. Calling him every name in the book and making fun of him in any way they could.
How many secretly wish you had him back as your finance minister?
At least he understood markets, economics and finance unlike the current silly crew.
Did you expect this of Conservatives?
Garth, actually it is exactly what I expected based on Mulroney’s and Harris’s brilliant economic policies, and the track record they had.
In fact the only thing conservative about modern conservatives is that they despise social progress and think everyone is capable of raising themselves up by their own bootstraps. The result is increased crime, increased costs everywhere, and for what? Their blatant regilous, xenophobic, and homophobic beliefs are counter to humanity. Their god is money and power, and yet, those who truly are conservative regarding fiscal policy, are not even heard.
As to Flaherty’s capabilities I would ask ‘What capabilities?’ He is a schmuck and a failure, as is Harper and the whole damned Reform/Alliance party. As to the Liberals, they should have smacked JC down hard and fast, and had they been minding their own store Paul Martin would still be guiiding this great nation on a course of balanced fiscal policy.
Have the Liberals learned a lesson? No, some have, but when I see a pompous ass like Iggy running around wearing the label I have to shake my head and say…No! Dion is quite capable, and it is his capability, not his accent or speech, not his heritage, that I look at.
As to the fools wasting time and gas to shop across the border all I can say is ‘You are idiots, and need to get some rehab to your compulsive consumerism!’ Likewise, when Canadians insist that Canadian companies bring their prices in line with the current value of our Loonie, then there will be no need to look for bargains in the U.S..
Interestingly, WalMart is stagnated and experiencing little, if any growth, and the main reason appears to be the issue of quality of their products. Woes mount for Wal-Mart
With growth, stock price and profits down, the retail giant once thought to be invincible finds itself on shaky ground
There is going to be some pain, but perhaps people will come back to their senses after all these decades of addictive behaviour. I think John Denver may have had the answer when he sung ‘Blow up your TV, throw away the paper, and try to find…’ a meaning to life that has value.
By Calberta on 08.12.07 2:59 am
Well said!
By wd on 08.12.07 9:59 am
So was the Volvo I bought in the U.S. that was substantially cheaper U.S built?
By Greg on 08.12.07 7:08 am
LMAO! Yeah, and the poem is spot on as well. Why do I feel that the leadership is so wanting in all the parties, that I cannot trust any of them?
WD,
I won’t argue, but the same kind of price discrepancy exists for imported vehicles as well.
It makes ‘personal’ economic sense to buy vehicles in the US (even if foreign made) than in Canada. The importers/manufacturers are hosing us but good.
Ed the Hun
Here is a little guideline for those thinking they are saving bundles shopping across the border.
CRA allows $0.455 per kilometre for vehicle expenses. That includes fuel, insurance, and maintenance costs. There is a reality few seem to grasp.
Then add to that the liability exposure and the special insurance requirements for both your vehicle and medical coverage and you will quickly see that you are wasting money, not saving money. But then you have Visa and Master Card…Right?
My wife and I always schedule shopping outside our area, and even in town, to coincide with other needed tasks. We save bundles by doing so. If it comes to things we need like office supplies we can order them from Staples and have them delivered the next day free of charge.
We do grocery shopping once per week, and rarely buy anything in between. We should, likewise, be happy our Loonie is so near par to to the USD. What is it with Canucks? Do they have an unquenchable need to feel inferior to the U.S.? Seems so to me. I remember when the Canadian dollar was worth more than the USD and have one framed in rememberance along with an American Greenback.
As to the importers taking a huge profit, there is no doubt. Check out auto part prices and you will be SHOCKED at the difference. No wonder Frank Stronach is so bloody rich…you paid for his success.
But then I, being a businesman pay attention to such details because at the end of the day I am responsible for my decisions and reap the benefits and consequences directly. No one else to blame, or as Harry S. Truman’s desk sign said ‘The Buck Stops HERE!’
Have a nice day folks.
Here comes the Canadian housing collapse. Has everyone prepared? You should…
Garth, I’m getting really tired of you accusing the Cons of having an “inflationary” budget.
What would the Libs do differently? Sure, you guys would probably give me an income tax cut rather than raise my income taxes (wife and I don’t have kids so we don’t count for much to the Cons – which is why they don’t get our votes).
But this inflationary budget nonsense is just that.
Even if the Libs put in a budget with $10 billion of less spending that is still a drop in the bucket compared to a $1+ trillion economy.
Would the budget be any less/more inflationary if it cut taxes by that $10 billion? What if that $10 B went to pay down debt?
Yes, it would make a small difference but none of it will/would show up in our CPI.
If you want to deal with inflation then why not look at the source – the printing press. This past week shows just how quickly central banks can drop money from helicopters to put a floor in the prices for CDO’s.
Catherine – that little dig in the end was rather unnecessary and not related at all.
Should we start to put little digs about the CPC and past in too for balance. My dear, it’s not working.
I’m buying Canadian as much as possible. We all should, especially the farm products.
By slg on 08.12.07 10:12 am
You and Garth do at every chance you guys get. I’m only stating facts! If facts expose the Liberal hypocracies and it makes you feel uncomfortable – that’s your problem – deal with it.
BTW: I voted for the Libs in 1993, and the reason was Paul Martin, and not Jean Chretien. Well, it take me too long that I felt betrayed as a Canadian, when Paul Martin, as a finance Minister, sold us up the river.
The high-spending, high-dollar, rising-rate and inflationary policies of Mr. Flaherty are massively imprudent.
Did you expect this of Conservatives?
posted by Garth Turner on 08.11.07
Your criticisms of Flaherty and the Conservative government are quite valid, but it now begs the question: “What would you and a Liberal government do to mitigate the situation?”
What fiscal measures are necessary to get Canada and our manufacturing sector back on line? Please list them for ease of discussion.
Thanks.
Give them sports, easy credit and all the beer they can drink
The powers came to perceive
If they just work and play and seldom think
More deeply than games and TV
Freedom will fade, their Constitution grow dim
They’ll consent to all laws heaped upon them
Through crisis and war rumors they extracted much fear
And justified total control
Over sleepy citizens pleased to not interfere
In exchange for flattering cajole
From judges and lawyers turned politicians, wherefore?
To exist and move money as the corporate whore.
Can this happen in Canada or is it already.Like the John Denver lyric.
This is not on topic, but here’s an item that will be of interest to all Canadians who believe that the Canadian Armed Forces deserve a fighting chance to fight the good battle for democracy and justice.
How the ‘Good War’ in Afghanistan Went Bad
By DAVID ROHDE and DAVID E. SANGER
At key moments in the fight for Afghanistan, the Bush administration diverted scarce resources to Iraq.
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/08/12/world/asia/12afghan.html?hp
While you’re checking out the story, have a look around at a really great newspaper. Canada used to have some good newspapers. Not anymore; it’s a pity.
Garth,
Though I like to agree with you as much as possible, I’ve read recently that unemployment in Canada is at a 33-year low. I realize many jobs may have been lost, but if more jobs are being created, it hardly seems like an issue.
Unless you lost your job. — Garth
By MB on 08.12.07 7:37 am
Thank you for that link to fresh and hilarious material!
The issue of North American autos is a very good one considering how integral they are with societies needs and demands.
The big 3, have no one to blame but themselves regarding their plight of recent years. I speak from many years of auto purchasing, repairing and sales experience.
Going back to the 60′s, GM had 50% of the N American market, Ford I believe had 30 % and Chrysler most of the rest.
When Chrysler almost went belly up, Lee Iaccoca saved them with his simple duplication plan based on using the K car frame and driveline for as many other vehicles as possible. Remember the first Mini Vans Chrysler built and how popular they were? Compare their size to the modern equivalent. The K car itself sold like microwave ovens, and dollar for dollar was a pretty good car. A disposable car, but still, if you looked after it, rust prevention and such it gave good service, was simple to work on, low priced and parts became cheap via aftermarket.
Now GM sank it’s own boat by flooding the market with poorly engineered, toy appointed facsimiles and then wouldn’t stand behind them via warranty. More excuses than Lady Chatterly had lovers.
Chrysler developed a make work project for their dealers via the 5 yr/ 100,000 klm warranty then added more holes than a sieve has, and were brash enough to offer extended warranties that were just as useless. Designed by Lawyers no doubt. They invented deceptive marketing and financing schemes to deceive the consumer who was not astute. And succeeded.
Ford plodded along as Ford has always done, building a reasonably good product and trying to keep pace with the innovators. The one really smart thing they did was to buy heavily into / create Mazda.
Bring all these things, plus, forward and add the fact that these automakers lost sight of reality and seemed to bet their futures on an endless supply of cheap Oil, and credit. Well, the supply of oil isn’t endless and once again high gas prices are making their dump trucks obsolete.
What was it you said Bill? The definition of Idiocy is repeating the same things and expecting a different result.
I don’t think the UAW would be the such an issue if better and more responsible planning had been what drove the industry. Toyota’s world wide success I believe, somewhat supports my view.
I worked for one of Ontario’s big parts manufacturers for a while, and had an interesting experience. One day, while trying to look productive, I took it upon myself to gauge the accuracy of the equipment being used to determine that parts were being made to company standards. Hah! The equipment was so far out of calibration that the product being passed as acceptable and forwarded to the assembly lines of the big 3 was in fact grossly sub quality. Steering and suspension parts I might add.
I brought this to the attention of the quality control dept. and shortly thereafter was visited by a representative who admonished the supervisors responsible for this area.
Two weeks later, I was informed my services were no longer required. If you were here with me, you could hear me laughing out loud.
If we, as a society come to understand that we don’t need the big iron monsters in the driveway, nor the chipboard mansion, but merely need to focus on real things, we can achieve a great deal. As Bill from Muskoka, the Oakey from Muskokie said, find happiness in the simple things. If you do this, the world won’t seem nearly as complicated.
A wise old bird once told me, I don’t fly too high, because it’s not so far to fall.
Oh, and I expect the Chinese auto makers to have taken a page from Iaccoca’s history book. Time will tell.
Quote from my Grandpa, “Bankers are like umbrella salesman, on a fine day they hand them out, when it rains, they want them all back.”
The Oakey from New Brunswick.
Yes I did. That’s what Conservative times are like. Conservative times are bad times. Every Conservative PM has done this to the economy.
Just back from a summer trip. Spent 12 days in the U.S. and 1200.00 there, then 14 days in Canada, and another 4 days in the U.S. with another 700.00 there.
Guilty spending time/money in the U.S. instead of Canada? NOPE. Harpo and Flathead cost us plenty with the income trust flip flop so any way we can save a dollar we’ll do it!
Flathead was even kind enough to raise the personal exemption limit so now we can make regular trip to spend our dollars South of the border…and better yet, taxes on the purchases were lower overall than here!
Thanx Jimbo.
Smitty helped to educate us all…
08.12.07 8:36…
Why is it that we pay $8 for a block of cheese here that costs $3 in the States? Why do we pay $6 for a breakfast that costs $2 in the States?
Cars, cars and more cars, as far as the big picture is concerned it matters not what you buy to big boys because they own the companies via the WTO anyway. Now people will drive what they can afford or care to lease, it’s all the matter of sales pitiches. What is the price for guality, I test drove a Toyota highbread Highliner, 53K plus taxes and little or no resale value in 10 years (due to unknown cost for battery replacement) My Ford Forcus Wagon cost 10.8K on the road with only 18K (used 2001) bought in 2002 works good and I will get at least a couple more years and I will still get 2K on another trade up. So fly to the US and save money? And all my parts on the shelf at Canadain Tire, to which I have needed few. Yes if I had a windfall I might just get a new off the floor right here in Dartmouth Ford Mustang GT>
$10 billion of less spending that is still a drop in the bucket compared to a $1+ trillion economy.
Thank God this fool is not the FinMin. $10 BILLION is not petty cash. What ever happened to people’s brains?
Looks like things are going to get rather heated in the Maritimes. I was watching NTV News and Premiere Danny Williams is going after Steve full bore per his address to the CAW. His motto to remove Steve will be as simple as ‘ABC’ meaning ‘Anything But Conservatives.’ LOL I like it…catchy too!
…….
What was it you said Bill? The definition of Idiocy is repeating the same things and expecting a different result.
The Oakey from New Brunswick.
By Greg on 08.12.07 3:20 pm
Close…I like to say “Insanity is repeating the same act and expecting a different result.”
I can easily relate to your very well stated experience. I have been an advocate of superior quality all my life, and have also been victimized by little minded snits who could suck the juice from a lemon without removing the peel.
They generally fall in one of two categories ‘Kiss Asses’ and ‘Brown Nosers’, the only difference being their depth perception.
And here, on this beautiful Sunday afternoon, a ltitle reflection on Steve’s religious supporters and how they really think…Just for laughs! (or groans).
Blessed are the Fundamentalists, for they shall inhibit the earth.
How many Fundamentalists does it take to change a light bulb?
The Bible doesn’t mention light bulbs!
“And it came to pass that in the hands of the ignorant, the words of the Bible were used to beat plowshares into swords”
Alan Wilson Watts
Puritanism: The haunting fear that someone, somewhere may be happy.
“Televangelists: The Pro Wrestlers of religion.”
Why is it that we pay $8 for a block of cheese here that costs $3 in the States? Why do we pay $6 for a breakfast that costs $2 in the States?
By Andrew McDonnell
Canadian restaurant and foodservice
operators purchase more than $2 billion in dairy products each year. As a group, they are one of the dairy industry’s largest customers.
Under Canada’s supply management system, dairy prices are supposed to be set using a “cost of production” formula that includes a fair return to producers. And yet, over the last nine years, dairy prices have risen by more than 30% – even though the cost of dairy production has steadily decreased
Thanks to these increases, dairy farms enjoy an average profit margin of 23.4%, compared to 14.9% for other farms and just 4.6% for foodservice operators, according to Statistics Canada.
Unless substantial reform takes place, dairy producers will continue to “milk” Canadian consumers with unjustifiable price hikes, year after year.
By David Bakody on 08.12.07 4:47 pm
If you need parts I suggest 1A Auto Parts out of Massechusetts. Same parts at 1/3 the canadian price, and most made in Canada! Go figure, eh?
Canadian auto parts resellers should include a free Jiffy Lube with all sales IMHO. Crappy Tire has some good buys, but their qwuality is pretty bad. In the U.S. I used to buy from Auto Zone, and NAPA…always good quality.
Crappy Tire does have one of the best return policies I have seen though. Credit given where credit is earned.
My new Caliber is under full warranty and it will be traded in before it expires. The cost of repairs, and this old bod, just make it prohibitive to not have a full warranty coverage nowadays. I treat vehicle purchases like a mortgage…it will never be paid off. LOL I am basically renting the friggin’ thing to avoid the stress of breaksdowns, and have reliability as a result.
No one can work on the newer vehicles anyway as everything is computerized and a real analyzer costs thousands. The little ones CT and others sell for about $200 simply will not tell you all the codes, especially ABS and tranny readings. Without the factory manual you can cause more harm than you cure. Most of the so-called ‘aftermarket’ repair manuals are a joke IMHO. The manufacturer’s manuals are costly, usually around $100. Best to buy new, check for recalls and notices online, and make sure you get the vehicle in for mods asap. The special tools required are extrememly expensive, and you simply cannot do the work without them.
I was a military aircraft mech, so know the difference between Shadetree wrench benders, and qualified mechanics. Most of the CT mechs I would hesitate to have fix a lawn,mower engine, although there are a few good ones in each store. WalMart? Forget it. I also would not go there for brain surgery! LOL Aircraft mechs realize you can’t pull over to lift the hood at 30,000 feet. LOL
I have done my own mechanics work for decades, but the time has come to simply let the dealer have the headache.
“Unless you lost your job. — Garth”
I do so enjoy a Maverick! Red, Blue or Green.
Shake the foundation, until they fear for their very survival. It may provide a temporary respite. Time for the next generation to catch their wind.
As I take time to force myself to think, and draw together the many wisdoms that have been offered to me, I come to something like a conclusion that we, the people have become an insatiable monster which places demands on a purportedly well intentioned system that few men or women can deliver.
We of course have had a great deal of help in this regard, via mass marketing wizards, credit and political pundits.
I reflect upon the goals of King Louis X1V of France, and ponder the intentions of a man draped in opulence, yet so deeply desiring something good, and decent. So much so, that he endeavoured to create a society in the New World, absent of the debauchery and corruption of his Europe.
Enter, the best laid plans of mice and men. Once confronted with the largely commerce based society of Mother England, why the rest is history, and the fallout we still deal with today.
The almighty dollar, franc, pound etc. has always had the last word.
Those who think they have climbed to the top of the hill, need to pause momentarily as there are great forces who are far more organized than they and I. They are patient and will give you your moment in the Sun as long as it fits in great scheme. It has been the way. It is still the way. Understand Grasshopper?
In order for our Children to have the ability to resist what Dwight Eisenhower referred to as the Military Industrial Complex, we must buy them time. It is the least we can do in consideration of having pursued our own agendas.
To the dodo birds, please refrain from navel gazing, we are all pawns in much bigger game. Divide and conquer, ponder that in the circles of intelligentsia.
I thank all posters to this blog for providing further insight in my quest to extend knowledge.
We the pawns, must be ever vigilant of the forces of feudalism. We live in a world not so different to the times of old. A game of Dungeons and Dragons.
It is up to you to decide, will you acquiesce or will you champion your principals?
principles, duh!
It is up to you to decide, will you acquiesce or will you champion your principals?
By Greg on 08.12.07 5:44 pm
Speaking of principles, what is all this with the City of Burlington hitting taxpeyers with 7% tax increases in 2007 and 2008 just to maintain present services? I thought the Mayor and Councillors were there to look after our interests not just to spend and tax? Time for folks to join the Taypayers Coalition Halton Inc, watch for the full page ad coming in early Sept in the Post. Time to stand up to the fleece and spend folks!
By Greg on 08.12.07 5:44 pm
APPLAUSE! BRAVO!
And here, on this beautiful Sunday afternoon, a ltitle reflection on Steve’s religious supporters and how they really think…Just for laughs! (or groans).
Blessed are the Fundamentalists, for they shall inhibit the earth.
How many Fundamentalists does it take to change a light bulb?
The Bible doesn’t mention light bulbs!
“And it came to pass that in the hands of the ignorant, the words of the Bible were used to beat plowshares into swordsâ€
Alan Wilson Watts
Puritanism: The haunting fear that someone, somewhere may be happy.
“Televangelists: The Pro Wrestlers of religion.â€
By Bill-Muskoka on 08.12.07 5:03 pm
What is it with you Bill M. Why not just replace your constant hate mongering of Christians with devout Jews or Muslims! You not man enough to spout your hateful crap towards other religous groups?
Ed the Hun . . . . JD powers, top 4 cars the last 3 years . . . Buick/Lexus tied, Cadillac, Mercury. Where’s the Euro cars, the asian imports????? Just the $80,000 plus Lexus in the top group.
Canada’s loonie is finally worth something, and Garth is upset . . . . several Euro countries have the same sub-prime mortgage issues, causing some problems, but not the end of the world . . . . eastern Canada is reaping the benefits of 30 plus years of Liberal incompetence, over-taxation and poor business practices!!!
Catherine: I believe Bill is taking the fanatics of Christianity to task, just as you may take the fanatics of Islam to task for their rigid stance and blind intolerance.
Muskoka Bill, air type eh? well I was a marine engineer, funny you should mention the fact our young mechanics can’t fix anything. I decided to put some new rotors and pads I bouht from CTC on that Focus, well I went to take the caliburs off and did not have a metric allen key to fit…are you ready for this….are you sure… I went back to CTC and asked the Service Manager what size it was…no problem he said: I will ask the mechanic, he returned and he said, sorry he does not know as we do not work on breaks that much….. I went home called a old buddy and he ran over his set. Rotors and pads took me about an hour or so, too easy….fartting around with over paid mechanics…..useless….
“A King can do no wrong”
Heard today on CTV Qustion Period that Harper now considered a “Minister of Ministers”.
Personally don’t think any of the Ministers are experienced enough to handle any of the key portfolios. Just like a boring card game at the cottage, everyone getting tired but somebody has to shuffle the deck.
http://www.canada.com/topics/news/politics/story.html?id=f6b0eda0-fe19-4aea-b5d6-b3a10f8a9bee&k=10261
Truman may have said that “The buck stops here!†but us consumers know that “The buck STARTS here.†It is our money artfully – even fraudulently – extracted that keeps the economy going. My heart bleeds for profits and taxes lost to cross-border shopping, but I rejoice for those of my consuming compatriots who saved a few dollars across the border – and gained the feeling that they beat the system into the bargain.
I keep on getting back to greed as the organizing principle: the more profit, the better, and never mind how. And pile on the taxes, because the suckers don’t have any alternative. Except now and then in shopping outside of the country. Someone explain to me why a pack of Parker fountain pen ink cartridges cost $3.50 in Canada, when they were available in the States for $1 (solved that problem by importing a lifetime supply years ago.) Ditto for any number of products, made in the USA or not, even if not at such a margin.
Not to pick only on importers, here is a domestic example. I am replacing cedar shingles on the gables of my house. Last year, I bought “Blue Label†cedar shingles at $61.50 a bundle for the east side. This year I am doing the west side. In late July, I paid $78.95 a bundle for the same “Blue Labelâ€, and last week $93.95 (all prices before taxes, to keep it simple.) The explanation offered was that there was a strike in BC and a supply shortage. But I picked them up from the same stock pile as the ones I bought in July, and no doubt they cost the lumberyard the same. There will be a sound business explanation in addition to my patented “greedâ€, but my problem is that I am at the bottom of the food chain and can’t pass the costs on to anyone else. The price of cheese has been mentioned by others; one of my pet food and peeves. Ontario, the Dairy Province indeed!
We have a quiescent population accustomed to being fleeced, and we have businessmen dedicated to never giving a sucker an even break. And then we have a government that is duty-bound not to interfere in the marketplace – except when the interests it is beholden to need particular measures. Let me mention taxes: my 2006 total income was $56,114.47. Of this I paid $12,121.43 fed/prov income tax. I paid another $5,069.10 in municipal property taxes, making it $17,190.53 of direct taxes paid, leaving me $38,923.94 of my income for all other purposes. The kicker is that
14% of that available income then is absorbed by indirect taxation (a few items don’t carry GST or PST, but then there are exise/fuel taxes and fees that more than make up the difference), so our governments get another $5,449.35, making a total of $22,639.88 paid to support government, leaving this taxpayer $33,474.59 to support himself in the year. I’m doing all right, but don’t try to convince me that our three levels of government need more money. They should be swimming in dough. Why aren’t they?
Just another issue to keep you busy, Garth. Figure out what government must/should/could do, what this will cost, and how this cost can be met. Oh, and how to turn down greed a notch or two. The rest of your political challenges should be gravy.
Smitty helped to educate us all…
08.12.07 8:36…
“Why is it that we pay $8 for a block of cheese here that costs $3 in the States? Why do we pay $6 for a breakfast that costs $2 in the States?”
By Andrew McDonnell on 08.12.07 4:44 pm
I have some insight on that, remind me once I have slain the dragon. LOL
What is it with you Bill M. Why not just replace your constant hate mongering of Christians with devout Jews or Muslims! You not man enough to spout your hateful crap towards other religous groups?
By Catherine on 08.12.07 6:33 pm
I would suggest this is directed to a small segment of Christians, and I would hardly call it hateful. I might suggest it was an attempt at humour.
Being a Christian, I cannot say I find it particularly offensive, having said that, I wouldn’t have said it myself.
Looks like things are going to get rather heated in the Maritimes. I was watching NTV News and Premiere Danny Williams is going after Steve full bore per his address to the CAW.
By Bill-Muskoka on 08.12.07 5:03 pm
Bill, the Maritimes consists of NS, NB, and PEI only. The ATLANTIC provinces include these three plus NL.
And, by the way, I also took offense to a comment you made a couple of days ago about Maritimers being seen as not too intelligent. By whom? Upper Canadians? Visit our provinces and get to know the great folks down east before you make such judgements.
Oldschool,
News for you. I consider myself to fit only in the middle class category of society. Can’t afford ANY of those models that you quote.
When we talk about the ‘everyman’s vehicle’, the list is much different.
Check it out.
Ed the Hun
By David Bakody on 08.12.07 7:15 pm
Ah, the shoe fit perfectly, eh?
Now I would suggest you go learn what a Christian actually is, because if you were one you would feel exactly the same way this Christian does about the lieing deception being passed off as the Teachings of Christ!
But, then you would have to learn to read, think for yourself, and stop watching some nutbar on TV to whom you wsend money you and your family needs.
As Christ said to the woman at the well ‘Go and sin no more!’ (Pssst she was the really whiney one that was all so begging because she had no husband, but had had five. Jesus knew…he knows you too. Try learning what God knows about your heart.)
Oh, and Catherine, a friendly bit of Christian advice. Rather than be concerned about any potential tiny mote in my eye, I suggest you ask for help from skilled timber profressionals to remove the log from your own. Perhaps, your motive is you are wanting to participate in the softwood lumber deal?
David Bakody on 08.12.07 7:15 pm
My comment was meant for Catherine, but I thank you for posting her comment.
By MJB on 08.12.07 8:09 pm
No offense meant. The Atlantic provinces are as much a part of Canada as any other province. We do have a little fun with Newfies, and they should be proud of it simply because they know better.
But answer this for me please…Why do Newfies talk with their mouth closed and at a rate no one can understand, except another Newfie? Are they afraid their tongue will freeze or something, or is it merely the Screech?
By Ed the Hun on 08.12.07 8:26 pm
LOL I believe you refer to what used to be called the Volkswagon, the People’s car, which was one of the best designed and most cost effective vehicles ever offered.
I bought new one, a standard Beetlke, and never got stuck during winter, got great mileage, and it was maintainable with a minmum of effort.
Compared to the GM Chevrolet Corvair, which burned oil, stripped loose its valve rocker arms studs, and basically had the acceleration of a snail on sedatives, and couldn’t melt an ice cube with its so-called heater, the Bug was a dream…just avoid collisions with large dogs, or driving across a windy bridge. ;_)
Jason wrote: $10 billion of less spending that is still a drop in the bucket compared to a $1+ trillion economy.
Bill wrote: Thank God this fool is not the FinMin. $10 BILLION is not petty cash. What ever happened to people’s brains?
I never said $10 B wasn’t a lot of money.
I *did* say that to expect any government to spend $10 B more than the next government, or to offer tax cuts of $10 B or debt repayment of $10 B, will not make much impact on the CPI [i.e. inflation] in an economy that is worth $1+ trillion.
Given that the Bank of Canada can create $2 billion of money in 2 days and inject it into our system then one would expect that type of inflation to be more worrying than a government spending $10 billion over the course of a fiscal year.
Now, Bill, stop taking things out of context and pretending (?) to be such a moron.
By Bill-Muskoka on 08.12.07 9:24 pm
Can’t answer your question as I’m not a Newfoundlander. But there are accents across this country that require all of us to listen a little harder. That’s what we should be doing instead of making jokes. Yes, I do have a sense of humour, but there is a time and place for everything.
By pjw on 08.12.07 6:13 pm
If I could fix it, I would. My limited power consists of a keyboard and a mind.
But don’t give up spreading the word. The Internet is a powerful medium, and as I have discovered already, one that some fear.
By Bill-Muskoka on 08.12.07 3:15 pm
You’re welcome for the link to Yuks ‘R’ Us! Bill-Muskoka, but I must give the credit to GREG.
The poem listed in the ‘By Greg on 08.12.07 6:41 am’ post about JC led me to the site. So either Greg wrote the poem and submitted it to Yuks ‘R’ Us! or he is a connoisseur of humour much like yourself.
Either way judging from your writings, Bill-Muskoka, and your response to Greg’s other posts today it seems like you and Greg are kindred spirits.
Best Regards,
MB
BTW: I voted for the Libs in 1993, and the reason was Paul Martin, and not Jean Chretien. Well, it take me too long that I felt betrayed as a Canadian, when Paul Martin, as a finance Minister, sold us up the river.
By Catherine on 08.12.07 1:05 pm
Catherine
I am not impressed with any of our previous leaders, just politicians not statesmen, as you are. I have to ask one question though, what if anything, are you doing to try to work on and improve the system as well as your expectations of our MPs?
While I am not impressed with Martin at all with his antics and his semi attached shipping company only reinforces my belief that all MPs must absolve themselves of all ties to any companies they have or did have stock or vested interests in. As in no assets or stocks at all
But of course that is idealistic. I would ask what difference do you see with the current government versus the previous ones that is better and also worse? What do you want to see improve either way NOW and not then.
Catherine: I believe Bill is taking the fanatics of Christianity to task, just as you may take the fanatics of Islam to task for their rigid stance and blind intolerance.
By Judy on 08.12.07 7:13 pm
I don’t see that those “fanatics of Christianity” waging holy jihad against all infidels, do you? Or encouraging stoning of women? Or encouraging their youngsters to strap on bombs? Or oppress their women (no education or medical care)?
And especially in Canada!
Oh, and Catherine, a friendly bit of Christian advice. Rather than be concerned about any potential tiny mote in my eye, I suggest you ask for help from skilled timber profressionals to remove the log from your own. Perhaps, your motive is you are wanting to participate in the softwood lumber deal?
By Bill-Muskoka on 08.12.07 9:15 pm
Maybe you, sir, need some professional help, dealing with your anger and hatred for christians.
Stop spreading your hatred in Canada.
UNDER THE THEME …. CONSEQUENCES
http://www.rbcinvest.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20070812.wliquidity0812/front/Front/frontBN/rbc-front
How the liquidity tide turned
You don’t have to “tell†a senior who invested in income trusts how the liquidity tide turned. Flim-Flam Dim-Jim Flaherty is the WORST finance minister this country has ever seen.
P.S. I don’t think Flaherty will be heading to Louisiana anytime soon. They have a ”nuthouse” there for the likes of HaltonJohn & MiltonMan who are CRAP pussies posting the CRAP invective.
http://deadder.net/DailyNews/dailynews/dsk70808.jpg
PM prepares to unveil stripped-down cabinet
http://www.rbcinvest.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20070813.wshuffle13/front/Front/frontBN/rbc-front
FROM the BAYOUBUZZ BUSINESS SECTION
Shreveport Stockbroker Charged
Louisiana law enforcement officials have charged stockbroker Lloyd Dewitt Tiller Jr. Finance Minister Jim Flaherty received threatening e-mails.
Tiller 59, of Shreveport, La., has been charged with two counts of sending a threatening interstate communication. He is alleged to threatened to kill the Canadian Finance Minister Jim Flaherty and his family by sending threatening e-mails over losses sustained after the government reversed course in late October on the taxation of income trusts.
After reviewing the US site comments section, we found a couple Canadians giving advice to the broker. One had supplied the YouTube url with Harper making the PROMISE …making the suggestion that Mr. Tiller should produce it as part of his defense in court. That poster identified himself as XTORY.
Maybe you, sir, need some professional help, dealing with your anger and hatred for christians.
Stop spreading your hatred in Canada.
By Catherine on 08.13.07 4:49 am
Tut, tut, tut, Cathy Baby! You are NOT A CHRISTIAN because you don’t exhibit any of the charitable christian traits.
Jack Van Impe has predicted a terrible destiny for you and your followers. Although Van Impe comes from the same fraudulent, money-grubbing, flock as Benny Hinn, he doesn’t proclaim himself a miracle-maker! I’d be happy to place my hand on your forehead and shove you backward onto your arse, after I proclaimed you free of intolerance and stoopiditee … PROVIDED YOU DROP MANNA IN THE WHITE BUCKETS. Go see McAvety and his crew!
Someone to keep the cronies at bay
http://www.rbcinvest.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/ArticleNews/PEstory/LAC/20070813/EGOMERY13/Editorials/commentEditorials/commentEditorials/1/1/3/
“But instead of negotiating with the other parties to find a mutually acceptable candidate, Mr. Harper took his ball and went home. If a majority of MPs didn’t like his choice, he said, he would just have to wait until he had a majority government before proceeding. Mr. Harper has a habit of being petulant, as we saw again in his reaction last week to a Federal Court ruling that he couldn’t weaken the Canadian Wheat Board without Parliament’s approval. He warned the board that he would crack it open “one way or the other.”
Garth the high dollar make our prices cheaper so there is deflation not inflation. I bought a new pickup in 2000 for 36000 now a 07 can be bought 10000 cheaper. The higher $ makes Canadians weathhier.
Its not rocket science to foigure out why shoppers are crossing the boarders.
We earn our money in Canadian Dollars.
If, for the exact same product, after concersion, it costs 10 to 20% less by buying it in the US, three guesses (and the first two don’t count) wht people flood across the boarder.
In fact when you look into it, Canadian retailers are still using a conversion of 83 – 85c. Charge replacement cost, not the cost you bought it for, and if your surplier insists you sell for the higher price, tell them to get real!
Tut, tut, tut, Catherine …
EVEN SATAN IS SENSITIVE!
http://deadder.net/download/hirez0702/d702201r.jpg
Looks like things are going to get rather heated in the Maritimes. I was watching NTV News and Premiere Danny Williams is going after Steve full bore per his address to the CAW.
By Bill-Muskoka on 08.12.07 5:03 pm
Hey Bill, when ISN’T Williams having a hissy fit? He can’t be THAT angry with Mr. Harper as he hasn’t lowered the flags yet. L
I don’t see that those “fanatics of Christianity†waging holy jihad against all infidels, do you? Or encouraging stoning of women? Or encouraging their youngsters to strap on bombs? Or oppress their women (no education or medical care)?
By Catherine on 08.13.07 4:45 am
Stop spreading your hatred in Canada.
By Catherine on 08.13.07 4:49 am
Why, Cathy, that is exactly what I am attempting to do by exposing you and your ilk of hateful, self righteous, xenophobic, homophobic, ignorant liars.
Max DiMont stated it perfectly in his book ‘Jews, God, and History’, which gives a socio-economic view, rather than a politcal-economic view of history, when he said The one things all had in common in the Dark Ages was they were equalling superstious, ignnorant, and illiterate.’
As the Funnymentalist movement has persevered to return western mankind to the Dark Ages, they have caused the rise of others against them, yet as the moneychangers in the Temple, they refuse to see their own `armatia (The Greek for sin which means simply to miss the mark). Of all the things Christ said and did, his upturning of their profit system enraged them the most. The powers of those days were aghast that the masses may be set free by truth, and so they, as you, had to fabricate a pallatible story to justify their inexcusable conduct. It had nothing to do, BTW, with being Jewish, it was the result of the Roman philosophy of raw power and greed.
You, and the McVety’s, Robertson’s, Falwells, Roberts, Swaggerts of this world are without spirituality, you merely have religion, and as such, are prisoners to your self interests, not to the service of God’s intent. You are so heavenly minded you are of little earthly good. A broken piece of pottery to be cast onto the south side of the city where the fires of spontaneous combustion slowly consume the heap. The place is called Gehenna, meaning the City Dump!
When you master the following principles, then you will understand.
Truth is within ourselves. It takes no rise.
From outward things, what’er you might believe.
There is an inmost centre to ourselves
Where truth abides in fullness; and to know
Rather consists in finding out a way
Whence the imprisoned slendour may escape
Then by effecting entrance for a light
Supposed to be without.
The current world’s lament is stated well by the poet:
An ever-moaning battle in the mist,
Death in all life and lying in all love;
The meanest having power upon the highest,
and the high purpose broken by the worm.
“But instead of negotiating with the other parties to find a mutually acceptable candidate, Mr. Harper took his ball and went home”
By PYOTR PETROBITCH on 08.13.07 7:26 am
Immovable object meets irresistible force. Considering Harper is known for this type of thing, maybe it would have been better to accept his choice for now. People can always be replaced later. Instead, we continue with no system of checks and balances. Which is better?
As to the Wheat Board issue, I don’t think Harper is wrong. As an earlier poster pointed out, to support the CWB as it is, supports jailing farmers for engaging in free enterprise. Ours is purportedly a system of free enterprise and jailing farmers for exercising their rights smacks of Police State and authoritarianism.
What if this was applied to other sectors? Say auto parts, or autos themselves and the Gov. introduced a system which demanded it’s sole right to market all autos and parts made in Ontario?
Hello for the dark days of doom being upon us. If you think Ontario saw mass exodus of industry under Bob Rae, I suggest that would be minor in comparison.
Let’s have a look at the dairy industry too. Posters have asked whey a $3 block of cheese in the US costs $8 in Canada. The answer is simple really. Firstly we don’t have the market they do, so this reflects in the price. Next we have a system of wholesale / retail marketing which is controlled by approx 4 giants in Canada. Then there is the marketing system. Anyone here know what a litre or kilogram of milk quota is worth? Do you know that your Ontario gov. did away with cream quota entirely and changed the basis on which they pay farmers so it reflects and rewards fat content / cream? This quick stroke of the pen cost most, and I mean most dairy farmers between $50,000. and $150,000. depending on the size of their largely Holstein based herds.
Put together the cost of running the marketing system and the cost of working within it, plus retail giants and smaller market, voila = $8 block of cheese.
The other thing this system is creating is huge dairy farm operations which are swallowing the small farms. The day of the 30 cows milking farm has passed and as my cousin told me last year, although his farm milks 98 cows, he needs to push it up to 120 in order to remain viable.
He only maintains the farm as the last Son in a long line of ancestors which begun with 2 brothers setting foot on the wharf in Halifax and walking to N.B. long before there were roads. Fortunately my cousin made his money off farm, and was not dependent on it for his livelihood.
The Americans don’t have a quota system nor a milk marketing board. It is all free enterprise.
By Angry Canadian on 08.13.07 7:56 am
You sound mildly IRRIGATED, Leasa!
Hey Bill, when ISN’T Williams having a hissy fit? He can’t be THAT angry with Mr. Harper as he hasn’t lowered the flags yet. L
By Angry Canadian on 08.13.07 7:56 am
True, but have you checked this morning? LOL
By Bill-Muskoka on 08.13.07 8:35 am
Tut, tut, tut … Cathy is from “upriver” Ottawa, very near Pembroke, which is the home of the (phoney) blonde-haired (dyed)SIREEN who frequently is found with her mouth in motion and her brain in PARK. You can catch her at any religious demonstration in front of the H of C consumed by her compulsion to tell people how they should live their lives.
Should she encounter my GOOD SELF, I will be happy to place my right palm on her forehead with an backward motion to ensure she lands on the largest (most thoughtful) part of her body. The last time I saw her there, she was accompanied by a car dealer (Del Mastro) and Vellacott (hol[e]ist of
hol[e]ys!
“As to the Wheat Board issue, I don’t think Harper is wrong.
Ours is purportedly a system of free enterprise and jailing farmers for exercising their rights smacks of Police State and authoritarianism.” ***
By Greg on 08.13.07 8:37 am
*** Which you would counterbalance with an authoritarian PM who doesn’t give a HOOT for the democratic process. Just so’s you’re aware, the only thing PMSH arouses in me is the CONSCIOUS DESIRE FOR REVENGE AGAINST HIM AND HIS MINDLESS FOLLOWERS.
By James – Chatham on 08.13.07 7:48 am
As an avid reader of John Grisham and his current tome, ‘The Broker,’ I found a list of published prices for all of his offerings in one of his books.
Invariably the US availability shows a price of $6.99 US with the CDN price shown as $11.99
So much for the ‘relative advantage’ of a higher dollar. Do you think the drive to the US side of the falls will save me a marginal $4 … after gas expenses?
Firstly we don’t have the market they do, so this reflects in the price. Next we have a system of wholesale / retail marketing which is controlled by approx 4 giants in Canada.
The Americans don’t have a quota system nor a milk marketing board. It is all free enterprise.
By Greg on 08.13.07 8:37 am
Greg, a little reality check on the American food supply chain. First, there is ONE major corporation that controls the vast majority of grains, feedlots, produce, and the meat production known as ADM (Archer Daniels Midland) based in Minnesota. They set the prices by controlling the Commodities market for almost all the food produced. General Motors is a mini-operation compared to the power this company wields over the world’s masses.
Second, the key players in distribution are A&P (Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company, which also owns the A&P/Dominion (or is it Sobey’s) distribution in Canada), then there is Standard brands, Kroger, and I can’t recall the last one which primarily serves California and the West Coast, but there are basically only four there as well. Albertson’s, and Albert’s (both Canadian, or were) started opening stores in the 1980′s.
We have Sobey’s, Dominion, A&P, Loblaws, and all their subordinates. Agribusiness gets very little attention in the MSM unless the food supply is threatened.
As to Americans having a free-market in milk think Sealtest, Carnation, and a couple of others. Yes, there are a few local private processors, but the Big Boys, again, control the market.
Now, look at the soda pop industry. Pepsico and Coca Cola control 90% of the market, and bid to the retailers for shelf space. Again, a few minor bottlers exist, mostly because Pepsi and Coke avoid monopoly litigation by allowing them to. Then realize that Pepsico owns various fast food chains, as does Coke. (sorry, to rushed to think of who owns what this morning).
In short the CWBis, IMHO, one of the most intelligent and beneficiary agencies Canada has created. they act as the agent for our farmers on a world market. granted, under the act it is law, and when people violate the law, they face the consequences. Simple as that. is it perfect? Is anything? No, of course not, but were I a farmer I would gladly participate so that I could focus on farming, not international marketing.
Just a few ‘grains’ of thought. I am off to work for the day. have a pleasant one all!
By Gary V on 08.13.07 7:44 am
I think the price of pickups being cheaper now then 7 years ago has more to do with the price of gas and pickups not selling as fast as 7 years ago more then the current high dollar.
“sorry he does not know as we do not work on breaks that much”
By David Bakody on 08.12.07 7:15 pm
Well I never work on breaks. Coffee break = no work, lunch break = no work. If you were talking about the mechanic you might have meant brakes.
By PYOTR PETROBITCH on 08.13.07 9:15 am
All PM’s are authoritarian, especially those with a majority mandate. Hell, our entire system is authoritarian, but that doesn’t justify jailing farmers for exercising their democratic rights nor does it negate our right to speak out against it.
For those of you who would profess my allegiance to the CPC, may I suggest another 3 fingers worth and a round of head thumping on the nearest post.
A spade is a spade, has always been a spade and will continue as such.
By Bill-Muskoka on 08.13.07 9:25 am
Your post largely confirms what I said. The American dairy farmer is independent and that the system they have is free enterprise based. Big or small.
“First, there is ONE major corporation that controls the vast majority of grains, feedlots, produce, and the meat production”
And as far as this is concerned, they must be doing a better job at it than our marketing board based system then, if you use prices at the retail level as a gauge.
If the CWB is so good for us then why is it that the price a farmer receives for a bushel of wheat today, is still close to what it was in the 1950′s? And how is it good for a Saskatchewan farmer whose farm used to be worth a great deal, but now can’t make enough money to sustain the farm and his family and the value of the farm has dropped off the scale?
Who is all this good for? It is a sad state of affairs when a commodity trader or hedger receives far more from Ag products than the producer.
This system has allowed the giants which you refer to, to become giants and has simply concentrated their targeted ambitions and means to achieve via government control and the powers of smack down that come with it.
Under the old, truely market based system, you would be paying more for your groceries, of that I have no doubt but we would not have seen the destruction of rural way of life and the concentration of people in the cities and all the subsequent problems that accompany this.
If people paid more for groceries, there wouldn’t be so much income spent on SUV’s and other environmentally unfriendly consumer goods and maybe we wouldn’t be navel gazing wondering how we got ourselves into this mess.
Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it whether it exists or not….etc. Lawyers like to do this too!
Further to the above, what you now enjoy re: groceries prices can change quickly to. You know how a big chain goes into a market offering slashed prices to buy market share, then once that is achieved often the prices go higher than they were before.
I think we are already seeing some evidence of this as the Corp/Gov. control is extended to the point of choke hold. Wait until they have it all. Maybe the SUV will not be affordable after all!
“What if this was applied to other sectors? Say auto parts, or autos themselves and the Gov. introduced a system which demanded it’s sole right to market all autos and parts made in Ontario?”
Reality check Bill. Is it only ok when it’s the other guy’s rights being trampled?
God Bless Ontario. So many arseholes, so few bullets! Lol..
http://cagle.msnbc.com/working/070810/nease.jpg
Seems PMSH AND HIS CABINET are attracting RESPONSIBLE CARICATURISTS!
And as far as this is concerned, they must be doing a better job at it than our marketing board based system then, if you use prices at the retail level as a gauge.
By Greg on 08.13.07 10:26 am
The price difference is largely due to the U.S.D.A. subsidizing American farmers, and such silly things as paying them to NOT grow crops to artificially keep the market price up. Do we subsidize our farmers that way?
The way ADM gains market control is to buy adjacent farms, and then basically force the non-seller to sell. They then lease the land back taking with the income a percentage of the crop profit or government subsidizing.
You do not really believe Joe Average Farmer is going to get a contract with a major like Quaker Oats, Pillsbury, or another major multinational do you? No way, they need a steady and dependable supply line and those contracts go to ADM.
Remember that the commodities brokers, and management of these multinationals do not know Jack Squat about where things come from, do not care at all either, they only care about taking the cream off the top.
In the end the multinationals own each other, pretty much like the oil companies have holdings in each other, but there is no collusion of course because they, just like Conrad Black are always above board (read that above the Board of Directors), and honest. Honest they really are! Just ask them and they will confirm that they are saving us all from starvation, well, all but the farm producer that is.
And we thought the Softwood lumber deal sucked, eh?
Gotta head out here. Later!
By Bill-Muskoka on 08.13.07 1:21 pm
I believe we subsidize the next levels Bill, not so much the farmer. i.e. the CWB and the net result of this is subsidizing the processing sector, the commodities market and wholesale / retail sector. It in effect supports their margins by keeping the cost of the raw product dirt cheap. All of this on the backs of the farmers.
You said, “The way ADM gains market control is to buy adjacent farms, and then basically force the non-seller to sell. They then lease the land back taking with the income a percentage of the crop profit or government subsidizing.” That’s exactly what has happened here, like the big French Fry entity in PEI taking control of the potato crops via squeezing the farmers out, buying their farms and leasing it back or installing the former owner as Manager. Same in Western grain country. The grain is still being grown, it’s just that it’s grown by the few now, not the many.
As far as Joe Average Farmer and Quaker Oats are concerned, the old method involved brokers who gathered commodities from farmers then distributed them to the Quaker Oats level. The brokers were usually locals or a consortium of locals.
No argument about Corp. N America and where its sentiments lay.
You sound mildly IRRIGATED, Leasa!
By PYOTR PETROBITCH on 08.13.07 8:47 am
ha ha ha…good one! Don’t use that irrigation word with me right at the moment, I might bite your head off. I am so sick of irrigating…just one night without would be so nice. The only part I like about it is when we head to the other farm with the wetland and we have to wait for the wheel to finish. It’s so peaceful, and yes that one deer that decided she likes my husband is still there, bold as you please. Otherwise, we have nic named this summer ‘The summer from Hell’. I am irrigated out, irritated out, and sick of this up and down weather. It’s a bugger watching uninsured crops burn up.
In short the CWBis, IMHO, one of the most intelligent and beneficiary agencies Canada has created. they act as the agent for our farmers on a world market. granted, under the act it is law, and when people violate the law, they face the consequences. Simple as that. is it perfect? Is anything? No, of course not, but were I a farmer I would gladly participate so that I could focus on farming, not international marketing.
Bill-Muskoka
Bill, if you were a farmer, in Ontario you would not be able to use the services of the CWB. It is and has always been only Western Canadian farmers who are under the control of the CWB. Ontario and east, farmers do have the right to sell their grain to whomever they choose.
I’m not saying the CWB is right or wrong, but if it is illegal for a farmer in Manitoba or Saskatchewan to drive a truckload of wheat across the border to the US, why is it OK for a farmer in Ontario to do so? And if the CWB is so efficient at marketing grain, why can an individual farmer earn 20% more by selling directly to the US buyer?
By DMZ on 08.13.07 2:34 pm
I am certainly no expert on farming nor the CWB, but I can see why it came about. The prairies here, as in the U.S. are the heartland of grain production. In fact, that is prertty much all they grow are grains because the soils are ideal for such grasses.
It logically follows that such a huge resource is, in fact, a national resource that can feed the world. hence, international trade would be logically administrered by the Federal government simply due to the scale.
The Ontario farmers are, as far as I have seen, far smaller in scope, and more mixed than the prairies. Likwise, the Okanagan valley is a plethora of mixed crops and fruits.
If you want to take a really boring drive go west from Kansas City to Witchita, Kansas. Not a tree, no large hill, just hundreds of miles of grass grain based crops. You almost pray to see a Prairie Dog, grouse, and thing that doesn’t merely wave in the wind. LOL
Just my two cents.
Back to work here.
So…
The Canadian dollar is the only currency rising in value so much against the U.S. buck? I’m a little surprised there was no mention of what’s going on with the Euro, pounds, francs, yen, etc. or interest rates on the global level. Sloppy effort to prove much of anything, Garth. You could/should do better.
It’s a bugger watching uninsured crops burn up.
By Angry Canadian on 08.13.07 2:30 pm
Don’t think we are unsympathetic! I watched four farmers being interviewed. Two had lost 80% of their planned crop, with nothing to backstop their losses. Strahl had better be doing something to provide massive relief.
Re: By Bill-Muskoka on 08.13.07 8:35 am
I truly chuckle when I read Willy’s comments. He ASSUMEs many things and then spouts off his delusions.
I haven’t said that I was an evangilist… heck I never even stated that I was a devout anything. But, Willy, in his delusional state and his distorted values just keeps attacking those who reject his point of view. I guess, his liberal delusional state, he doesn’t see that he is one a very intolerant individual.
international trade would be logically administrered by the Federal government simply due to the scale
Bill-M
Unfortunately, ‘logically administered’ and ‘Federal Government’ tend to be mutually exclusive.
but were I a farmer I would gladly participate so that I could focus on farming, not international marketing.
Bill-Muskoka
Hi Bill…gone are the days when a farmer could toss a handful of seed out the back door and plan to take that crop to market. Today’s farmer has to be business and market savvy or he might as well sell the whole kit and caboodle. Our next generation of farmers (if there are any), will need a business degree (at least in marketing) to stay afloat. To run our farm, I am spending at least 25 hours a week on this computer…the paperwork would knock your socks off! We have more regulation than any business going and everything must be on paper to prove what you are doing as far as traceability and food safety. I have a food tech business working with us now to implement the final stages of our food safety strategy.
Grains and oilseed are insurable crops whereas vegetables are not. We’ve recently lost our SDRM (from the Fed. side), so no, there’s nadda. CAIS can take through agricorp up to a full year to settle and often it’s a pittance of the true cost involved. Never mind ensuring enough to live on…
What we really need is for the federal government to recognize the mother of a subsidy being provided to mega corporations in dealing with countries that do not have social safety nets for the people, thus ensuring they will work for bare minimum to keep from starving. We also need to be negotiated into Free Trade deals the use of chemicals and substandard hygiene conditions and lack of inspection. How can we in Canada with such high tough standards compete with these countries? We either have to start recognizing what’s really going on and fix it in giving Can. farmers subsidy to compensate (as the E.U. and U.S. does) or we must abolish all social safety nets in this country, relax our high standards and do away with welfare and E.I. Ummm, don’t like that idea…neither do I.
Anyway, still got a ton to do. Thanks for the diversion. L
By Catherine on 08.13.07 3:33 pm
‘And they cannot read the signs’, but I can Catherine. Now you are outright lieing. No, you are not an evangelist, that would require you be an Ordained minsiter, but neither are you an evangelical in the true sense. You are a game player, and we, the commenters here, know your game.
You were given three opportunities to comprehend, and yet, like the ox, refused to examine yourself. Calling intelligent discourse delusion is clearly indicative that your mind is closed for business.
I have a food tech business working with us now to implement the final stages of our food safety strategy.
What we really need is for the federal government to recognize the mother of a subsidy being provided to mega corporations in dealing with countries that do not have social safety nets for the people, thus ensuring they will work for bare minimum to keep from starving.
How can we in Canada with such high tough standards compete with these countries? We either have to start recognizing what’s really going on and fix it in giving Can. farmers subsidy to compensate (as the E.U. and U.S. does) or we must abolish all social safety nets in this country, relax our high standards and do away with welfare and E.I. Ummm, don’t like that idea…neither do I.
By Angry Canadian on 08.13.07 4:55 pm
AC, here4 is what I read in your very informative, fairly stated, and well said comment.
1. You admit you need outside assistance, which is normal for most businesses.
2. The U.S. would fall under the definition of ‘countries that do not have social safety nets for the people.’
3. How can we in Canada with such high, tough standards compete with these countries? By effectively marketing the superior quality of Canadian farm products. Here is one simplistic example…I have some friends who moved to a farm with 185 acres near Ottawa. One of the original Land Grant Homesteads. They have five horses (big deal they like horses), and some Americana chickens that lay green eggs. Well, those eggs, they claim, have a far superior flavour to regular eggs, and they sell all they produce or do not consume. So there is a market, but I am sure it would take some time to convince people green eggs are good. Especially anyone who served on the military and has been served green eggs for breakfast, a byproduct of powdered eggs. LOL
Now, let me share with you my thoughts, as an understanding friend. I came here from the States where farming is literally a well organized industry, but lacking in the high quality Canada has. I can taste the difference readily, especially in meats, and most especially in beef (Go to the Keg and then eat a steak at Montana’s…you will taste the difference). The produce we grow is far beyond the quality I ever experienced in the U.S., you would not believe the significant difference. it is because of our standards and regulations. We should be proud of such quality.
Yesterday we went grocery shopping, and picked Ontario grown products first, Canada grown products second, and after examining the corn on the cob (Product of ther U.S.A.) and finding it not fully developed, nor acceptable, we stopped at a roadside booth and bought fresh, fully mature, and very excellent Ontario sweet corn. It was cooked in the husk after soaking in warm sugar water, on the BBQ…Delicious.
Many in my family have been farmers since the 1600′s and there is no doubt that things have drastically changed, but the concept of wholesome quality has not.
The recent Green revolution has made us even more aware of the GHG effects of patronizing non-Ontario and non-Canadian suppliers. To be honest, we had grown lazy and too ready to pick whatever was good looking, rather than take alittle time to make our choices based on real values.
Our Canadian farmers should be proud they produce such well regulated foods for our consuption, and those standards are growing in appreciation. The chemicals used in the U.S. are far too often carcinogens. vanad alimits those far better. That is, as I am sure you are aware, a major component of the debate on the SPP and NAU.
As to abolishing our social safety nets and lowering our standards I simply say NEVER! We are better than that, and not cheap whores whose thinking is only governed by the bottom line. We are Canadian!
Anyway, thank you for enlightening all of us. Hope you get some gentle rain soon.
Why, Cathy, that is exactly what I am attempting to do by exposing you and your ilk of hateful, self righteous, xenophobic, homophobic, ignorant liars.
:
By Bill-Muskoka on 08.13.07 8:35 am
this is an example of Willy’s assumptions. He ASSUMEs that these things about me – especially accusing me “homophobic”; yet, he hasn’t provided any evidence. Poor Willy, when he tries to promote his hatred and intolorences, by his “liberal” method of marginalizing.
And his side kick, pyotr, ASSUMEs that I’m from “upriver”. I think he’s trying to saying that I’m from Pettawawa, Cheryl Gallant’s riding. Well, of course his assumptions are wrong, as usual. Having said, Cheryl Gallant does enjoy a tremendous support from the residence in that riding. Garth and many other MPs would only dream of that type of support.
So much for the ‘relative advantage’ of a higher dollar. Do you think the drive to the US side of the falls will save me a marginal $4 … after gas expenses?
By PYOTR PETROBITCH on 08.13.07 9:24 am
Actually, I’m in the US. as I write. Gas prices work out to be around 75c/litre. How big is your gas tank?
He ASSUMEs that these things about me
LMAO! Cathy you are a hoot. When I posted the jokes they were not even addressed to you, but you just HAD to jump right in the conversation and accuse me by ASS-uming I was talking about you. (In fact your comment had been deleted and I then responded to the other commentators quotation of it. Reality is such a bitch, eh!)
I was not, but rather a generalized observation regarding fruitcake Funnymentalists. Thank you for, again, proving my point!
Bye!
Wow, I see that the anti-Christian posts are still allowed on Garth’s website. Why is that Garth?
Why, Cathy, that is exactly what I am attempting to do by exposing you and your ilk of hateful, self righteous, xenophobic, homophobic, ignorant liars.
Can the postings here descend any further?
Can the postings here descend any further?
By Sean P. Hogan on 08.14.07 9:21 am
Yes, Garth allows yours. Question asked. Question answered.
Now, go play your self-righteous BS elsewhere Hogan.
The Wheat Board?
ye gawds
If the farmers decide by a clear and proper vote to break up the Wheat Board they can have at. WITHOUT the Part III guarantees.
If they want to keep it the way it is they can have that too. Its called democracy.
Bill, Bill. Really? Where did I post anything close to your Nazi post?
When is it self-righteous to condemn a post comparing the PM to Hitler? Sounds like common decency, and common sense.
While we’re on talking about self-righteousness Bill, what about you condemning the Catholic Church? That sounded extremely self-righteous to me. What about you misusing Biblical quotes to condemn Catherine?
Pot, meet kettle.
By Sean P. Hogan on 08.14.07 12:56 pm
You obviously know nothing about the Bible’s context and true meanings, or you would have understood the meanings. Go back to your world heretic.
You obviously know nothing about the Bible’s context and true meanings, or you would have understood the meanings. Go back to your world heretic.
By Bill-Muskoka on 08.14.07 5:45 pm
Now, now Bill, let he who is without sin cast the first stone.