I Gotz the Cheese Man.
CBC News | Nfld. drug abusers becoming cheese thieves
Funny or tragedy, I don't know - I'm laughing too hard.
Funny or tragedy, I don't know - I'm laughing too hard.
Thursday, September 30, 2004
No British Grand Prix?
BBC SPORT | Motorsport | Formula One | British GP axed
This is a bit of a surprise (to me)! It seems no one wanted to pony up the F1 fee. The British Racing Drivers Club and the Government are both pointing fingers as to who is at fault. This is the end of an era as Silverstone was the site of the first F1 race.
This is a bit of a surprise (to me)! It seems no one wanted to pony up the F1 fee. The British Racing Drivers Club and the Government are both pointing fingers as to who is at fault. This is the end of an era as Silverstone was the site of the first F1 race.
Some frank talk from Benitez
Daily Post | Henchoz Close to Leaving Anfield
This article is interesting not because of its reference to the apparently unpopular defender but for its report that Benitez is looking for his players to step it up and change to his style of play. Assistant Manager Pako Ayesteran echoed this need for change in a subsequent interview.
This article is interesting not because of its reference to the apparently unpopular defender but for its report that Benitez is looking for his players to step it up and change to his style of play. Assistant Manager Pako Ayesteran echoed this need for change in a subsequent interview.
That's the way the gravy stains
That's the way the Moon wanes.
Last night's Rugby was a flop - only James and myself made it out. This may be the last run of the year - James thinks it may be our last run ever. This isn't a happy thought but given our challenges getting enough fellows this year its understandable - as we all get older there are simply greater obligations. I guess time will tell.
Oil at $50
A milestone this week as the price of oil passed $50 a barrel. German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder commented: "The oil price is very high these days, but we have not seen that it has great effect on the world economy yet," . His was among a number of influential voices in the European zone of 12 nations with that view, including officials from the European Central Bank.
World economic growth is expanding at its fastest pace in 20 years, creating a huge demand for oil -- 82 million barrels a day and growing at a record pace, and crude prices are moving higher in response.
Despite higher production by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, the latest threat to supply in Nigeria (as rebels told oil companies there to stop production by Friday) adds to the premium already in place because of interrupted supplies on the Gulf of Mexico after hurricane Ivan.
World economic growth is expanding at its fastest pace in 20 years, creating a huge demand for oil -- 82 million barrels a day and growing at a record pace, and crude prices are moving higher in response.
Despite higher production by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, the latest threat to supply in Nigeria (as rebels told oil companies there to stop production by Friday) adds to the premium already in place because of interrupted supplies on the Gulf of Mexico after hurricane Ivan.
Wednesday, September 29, 2004
More on the NHL Lockout
It's been over two weeks since the NHL teams locked the players out and there is no sign of an agreement (or even a desire to meet). The odds-makers are betting there will be no hockey this year, maybe next as well. Seems over a hundred players have found work in Europe - lucky them, unlucky us.
So what is my proposal for professional hockey that I alluded to in an earlier entry? Well its no solution to get the NHL interests back together. In fact, my idea should undermine both sides as it doesn't help anyone's economic interest.
My proposal? Reduce the prominence of the NHL by taking the money away. The fan - the economic force which feeds the greed of players and owners - is the loser irregardless of the Lockout outcome. Fans of the game are captive as our interest is emotional - the owners and players take advantage of us. So let's realize that we have all the power in this relationship and get back the game. On a practical level this means that we have to stop supporting the teams - no jerseys, no paraphernalia, no ticket purchases. That will show 'em. Check out the NHLFA for the latest lockout news and views.
So what is my proposal for professional hockey that I alluded to in an earlier entry? Well its no solution to get the NHL interests back together. In fact, my idea should undermine both sides as it doesn't help anyone's economic interest.
My proposal? Reduce the prominence of the NHL by taking the money away. The fan - the economic force which feeds the greed of players and owners - is the loser irregardless of the Lockout outcome. Fans of the game are captive as our interest is emotional - the owners and players take advantage of us. So let's realize that we have all the power in this relationship and get back the game. On a practical level this means that we have to stop supporting the teams - no jerseys, no paraphernalia, no ticket purchases. That will show 'em. Check out the NHLFA for the latest lockout news and views.
Tuesday, September 28, 2004
Legal Extensions - Oct/Nov '04
Legal Extensions - Oct/Nov '04
Use the password "WEBSITES" (case sensitive) to see the Infoware Legal Extensions review from Law Office Computing magazine. We're quite happy with it - now it just has to turn into some sales!
Use the password "WEBSITES" (case sensitive) to see the Infoware Legal Extensions review from Law Office Computing magazine. We're quite happy with it - now it just has to turn into some sales!
Liverpool fails in set play again.
LFC lost to Olympiacos today 1-0 and was probably a good result for the side as they were badly beaten about in the first half. Steve Hunter's - commentator on LFC.tv - voice changed from confidence to defeat fairly early in the match. The Greeks hammered on Baros pretty hard throughout the game eventually having a man sent off, but it mattered little as they couldn't put together a solid attack. If there is any good news to be taken from the match it is that the midfield came together in the second half, so there is some fighting spirit there.
More Champions Play Today.
Today Liverpool is playing Greek side Olympiakos in their second Champions League Group A match. The Greek team includes one-time Brazilian superstar Rivaldo.
Liverpool yesterday received backing for their new stadium at Stanley Park, also to be known as Anfield.
BBC SPORT | Football | Ferguson in Rooney dilemma
The much-vaunted striker is perhaps to start his first match with his new side after thirteen weeks out with a broken foot.
Liverpool yesterday received backing for their new stadium at Stanley Park, also to be known as Anfield.
BBC SPORT | Football | Ferguson in Rooney dilemma
The much-vaunted striker is perhaps to start his first match with his new side after thirteen weeks out with a broken foot.
Monday, September 27, 2004
Branson's Virgin goes into Space
The Globe and Mail | September 27
And all for only $208,000 for the 3 hour flight!
And all for only $208,000 for the 3 hour flight!
Has Iraq become the No. 1 Election Issue?
The Globe and Mail: September 27
Whether President Bush made a huge mistake by waging war against Iraq is increasingly becoming the central issue in the U.S. election campaign.
With the vote only five weeks away and the first of three crucial debates between Mr. Bush and his Democrat challenger Senator John Kerry scheduled for Thursday, the country remains riven over Iraq.
Yesterday, Senator Edward Kennedy, one of the few who warned against the war before it was launched, accused the President of leading the United States into a quagmire.
(BTW: You can buy Quagmire items on E-Bay)
Whether President Bush made a huge mistake by waging war against Iraq is increasingly becoming the central issue in the U.S. election campaign.
With the vote only five weeks away and the first of three crucial debates between Mr. Bush and his Democrat challenger Senator John Kerry scheduled for Thursday, the country remains riven over Iraq.
Yesterday, Senator Edward Kennedy, one of the few who warned against the war before it was launched, accused the President of leading the United States into a quagmire.
(BTW: You can buy Quagmire items on E-Bay)
Friday, September 24, 2004
Kerry: Searching for an Answer?
Economist.com | America and Iraq
This is an interesting article about Iraq and how it is playing out in the Presidential campaign. This week, Iraq produced some of its most traumatic recent news for America.
This is an interesting article about Iraq and how it is playing out in the Presidential campaign. This week, Iraq produced some of its most traumatic recent news for America.
Thursday, September 23, 2004
Much to do in little time.
Today wasn't a successful day in terms of getting things done. Between talking on the phone, struggling to find files I need & sending out email information to leads. I didn't make it have as far as I had hoped. I am long overdue getting materials to various vendors interested in becoming resellers and still haven't completed the product FAQ drafts for the website. My unaddressed task list for today was over ten items.
I have been asked by Hilary to help out with the closing of a store tonight - I'm late & writing this on the subway. Had to cancel on Humberto but figure I'll get a decent enough workout.
I have been asked by Hilary to help out with the closing of a store tonight - I'm late & writing this on the subway. Had to cancel on Humberto but figure I'll get a decent enough workout.
Renewal in Afghanistan: Opium Production
Two related stories of interest from The Globe and Mail and The BBC tell of the renewal of one of Afghanistan's industries - opium production. Bush is threathening sanctions on 22 major drug producing nations. Let's remember the U.S. Commitment to Rebuilding Afghanistan!
Wednesday, September 22, 2004
A Call for Better Journalism.
ACTION ALERT:
CNN's Dobbs Attacks Annan on Iraq War Legality
When U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan said in a September 15 interview that he thought the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq was illegal, CNN's Lou Dobbs was outraged, calling it "another incredible outburst by Kofi Annan" (9/16/04). But Dobbs and his CNN reporters neglected to pursue the most important aspect of the story: Was Annan right?
In a BBC interview, Annan said the war was "not in conformity with the Security Council, with the U.N. Charter." When asked, "It was illegal?," Annan replied: "Yes, if you wish," adding: "I have indicated it is not in conformity with the U.N. Charter; from our point of view and from the Charter point of view, it was illegal."
This did not sit well with Dobbs, whose September 16 report began:
"Outrage and anger today after an astonishing statement about Iraq by U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan. Annan said the United States-led invasion of Iraq was illegal."
Dobbs reported that "U.S. allies Britain and Australia immediately
rejected Annan's assertion. President Bush said he has no regrets about ordering the invasion." CNN correspondent Kitty Pilgrim's segment quoted the U.S ambassador to the United Nations, the Australian Prime Minister, a representative from the conservative Hoover Institute, and Edward Walker from the Middle East Institute, who said, "I don't understand quite what he means by legal."
FULL ARTICLE
CNN's Dobbs Attacks Annan on Iraq War Legality
When U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan said in a September 15 interview that he thought the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq was illegal, CNN's Lou Dobbs was outraged, calling it "another incredible outburst by Kofi Annan" (9/16/04). But Dobbs and his CNN reporters neglected to pursue the most important aspect of the story: Was Annan right?
In a BBC interview, Annan said the war was "not in conformity with the Security Council, with the U.N. Charter." When asked, "It was illegal?," Annan replied: "Yes, if you wish," adding: "I have indicated it is not in conformity with the U.N. Charter; from our point of view and from the Charter point of view, it was illegal."
This did not sit well with Dobbs, whose September 16 report began:
"Outrage and anger today after an astonishing statement about Iraq by U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan. Annan said the United States-led invasion of Iraq was illegal."
Dobbs reported that "U.S. allies Britain and Australia immediately
rejected Annan's assertion. President Bush said he has no regrets about ordering the invasion." CNN correspondent Kitty Pilgrim's segment quoted the U.S ambassador to the United Nations, the Australian Prime Minister, a representative from the conservative Hoover Institute, and Edward Walker from the Middle East Institute, who said, "I don't understand quite what he means by legal."
FULL ARTICLE
What's New?
Karina has been telling me my website has been too boring of late because it's been so football centric.
So what else is going on?
Work seems to be picking up some as we enter budget time for the law firms. The Infoware articles run in the October issues of Canadian Lawyer and Law Office Computing so very soon I will be finding out if I have spent my time usefully over the past months - I am not happy with my current situation inasmuch that sales (& comissions) haven't met my minimum requirements. Today I am updating our InCourt materials. Tonight the company has been invited to the Open Pub Night @ the Duke.
I am still making it out to boxing & rugby. Boxing was pretty miserable last night as I struggled for breath (which is unusual). Rugby is off this week, but will continue until darkness cuts too much into play time. I haven't been to yoga in a while... just not enough time. Is it weird I'd return at the end of rugby season?
I am very much looking forward to the upcoming Presidental Debates - I even want to watch the V-P debate! The first debate is on September 30th - I recommend going to the Commission on Presidential Debates website for specific details.
So what else is going on?
Work seems to be picking up some as we enter budget time for the law firms. The Infoware articles run in the October issues of Canadian Lawyer and Law Office Computing so very soon I will be finding out if I have spent my time usefully over the past months - I am not happy with my current situation inasmuch that sales (& comissions) haven't met my minimum requirements. Today I am updating our InCourt materials. Tonight the company has been invited to the Open Pub Night @ the Duke.
I am still making it out to boxing & rugby. Boxing was pretty miserable last night as I struggled for breath (which is unusual). Rugby is off this week, but will continue until darkness cuts too much into play time. I haven't been to yoga in a while... just not enough time. Is it weird I'd return at the end of rugby season?
I am very much looking forward to the upcoming Presidental Debates - I even want to watch the V-P debate! The first debate is on September 30th - I recommend going to the Commission on Presidential Debates website for specific details.
Stupid Human Tricks.
BBC NEWS | World | Asia-Pacific | 'Scorpion woman' breaks record
She even celebrated her 27th birthday in the box on Sunday.
"I feel a bit sad to celebrate my birthday without my family, but I'm happy that so many members of the public came to share it with me," Nur Malena told the French news agency AFP via mobile phone.
Since starting the stunt, she has only left her box once a day for a 15-minute toilet break, as well as a two minute break on Sunday to cut her birthday cake.
She even celebrated her 27th birthday in the box on Sunday.
"I feel a bit sad to celebrate my birthday without my family, but I'm happy that so many members of the public came to share it with me," Nur Malena told the French news agency AFP via mobile phone.
Since starting the stunt, she has only left her box once a day for a 15-minute toilet break, as well as a two minute break on Sunday to cut her birthday cake.
They killed Speed!
I watch CSI: Miami for a laugh - star David Caruso and the writers come together to create some of the most ridiculous content you can imagine. Based on a minimum of evidence, the writers advance the plot or solve a complex case - Caruso delivers these strokes of brillance with far too much gravitas. To do it 'Caruso Style' was the ideal of my old roommate - getting it all without doing anything. The rest of the show is equally ridiculous - all the women hot, all the sets stunning. Imagine Baywatch where sensational people get killed and you have the idea.
I guess being surrounded by the plastic people was enough for the actor playing 'Speed' one of the criminologists. Apparently he asked to be written out of the show (to concentrate on movies?) and was killed on Monday's season premiere. He was the only one who could act!
I guess being surrounded by the plastic people was enough for the actor playing 'Speed' one of the criminologists. Apparently he asked to be written out of the show (to concentrate on movies?) and was killed on Monday's season premiere. He was the only one who could act!
Tuesday, September 21, 2004
Roma fans attack Official.
BBC SPORT | Football | Europe | Dynamo awarded Roma win
Yes another football link. Roma was today handed a harsh penalty for the actions of their fans - a referee was bloodied at the end of the half after penalizing a Roma player. The 0-1 scoreline was altered with forfeit (play did not continue) to 0-3 for Dynamo Kyiv. Yikes!
Yes another football link. Roma was today handed a harsh penalty for the actions of their fans - a referee was bloodied at the end of the half after penalizing a Roma player. The 0-1 scoreline was altered with forfeit (play did not continue) to 0-3 for Dynamo Kyiv. Yikes!
Post Match Press.
Daily Post on LFC
This article does a pretty tidy job of summarizing everything that went wrong yesterday. Big news for the club today is that Gerrard has broken a bone in his foot and is out for 2 months. >sigh<
This article does a pretty tidy job of summarizing everything that went wrong yesterday. Big news for the club today is that Gerrard has broken a bone in his foot and is out for 2 months. >sigh<
Monday, September 20, 2004
Match Report | ManU 2 LFC 1
Benitez must have said something significant to the squad @ the half as a far more cohesive side appeared. But it was not enough. Although ManU did benefit from the work of the 12th man (dressed in black), Liverpool still couldn't knock it in. The Liverpool goal was an OG - hardly convincing. Overall the defence looked quite suspect and there were many disappointing passes. A very disturbing result - not a confidence builder certainly.
Half-Time Report | ManU 1 LFC 0
The match has been pretty damn ugly so far for Liverpool - the first 25 minutes were totally dominated by ManU (hell, most of the half!). Hyppia, Gerrard and Cisse are looking awful. LFC touches leave much to be desired (sloppy). Ronaldo has had a free license to run where he pleases. At 39 minutes, StevieG went off - a blessing in disguise? We'll see if Benitez can get the side sorted at the half.
Yesterday was International Talk Like a Pirate Day!
I didn't talk like a pirate although I did walk the plank (into a
lukewarm pool). Take The Pirate Personality Test! I am still, of
course, The Cap'n!
Some men are born great, some achieve greatness and some slit the throats of any man that stands between them and the mantle of power. You never met a man you couldn't eviscerate. Not that mindless violence is the only avenue open to you - but why take an avenue when you have complete freeway access? You are the definitive Man of Action. You are James Bond in a blousy shirt and drawstring-fly pants. Your swash was
buckled long ago and you have never been so sure of anything in your life as in your ability to bend everyone to your will. You will call anyone out and cut off their head if they show any sign of taking you on or backing down. You cannot be saddled with tedious underlings, but if one of your lieutenants shows an overly developed sense of ambition he may find more suitable accommodations in Davy Jones' locker. That is, of course, IF you notice him. You tend to be self absorbed - a weakness that may keep you from seeing enemies where they are and imagining them where they are not.
What's Yer Inner Pirate? find out on the Talk Like A Pirate Site. Arrrrr!
lukewarm pool). Take The Pirate Personality Test! I am still, of
course, The Cap'n!
Some men are born great, some achieve greatness and some slit the throats of any man that stands between them and the mantle of power. You never met a man you couldn't eviscerate. Not that mindless violence is the only avenue open to you - but why take an avenue when you have complete freeway access? You are the definitive Man of Action. You are James Bond in a blousy shirt and drawstring-fly pants. Your swash was
buckled long ago and you have never been so sure of anything in your life as in your ability to bend everyone to your will. You will call anyone out and cut off their head if they show any sign of taking you on or backing down. You cannot be saddled with tedious underlings, but if one of your lieutenants shows an overly developed sense of ambition he may find more suitable accommodations in Davy Jones' locker. That is, of course, IF you notice him. You tend to be self absorbed - a weakness that may keep you from seeing enemies where they are and imagining them where they are not.
What's Yer Inner Pirate? find out on the Talk Like A Pirate Site. Arrrrr!
Big Game Today.
Yes, there's a big match on for this afternoon - I just have to find a way to catch the broadcast. Spirits are running high amongst the players and supporters. This is a HUGELY anticipated match and should be very exciting - Viva Benitez!
It is always a pleasure to meet so much class in an opposing side.
It is always a pleasure to meet so much class in an opposing side.
Friday, September 17, 2004
On the NHL Lockout
A few minutes reprieve as I wait for the new InCourt demo to go live.
So what better thing to do than to write in my site about that most Canadian of topics - the NHL Players Lockout. So what's the issue? The NHL Franchise Owners (aka The League) and the NHL Players Association cannot come to an agreement as to the future division of NHL revenues. The League wants more money and the Players want more money. The League wants a salary cap - the Players want something else. The League is arguing that it has lost $billions in part due to the last collective agreement and they maintain that a salary cap will sort out their problems (their magic number is $32M, which is half the wage bill for the Rangers or Red Wings). 20 of the League's 30 teams are losing money, Tampa Bay is only in the black this season following their Stanley Cup win. Good thing there was that expansion in the 90s, eh?
The long and the short of this scenario is that it's a giant frigging disaster for Hockey Fans. Or maybe not. I am certainly not going to say that a guy with a stick should be making $9M. But at some point in time there does have to be a line drawn in the sand or we recreate the problems of other pro sports - creating a gulf so wide between the rich and poor clubs that their isn't much serious competition within the League. That said, this mess is also in part due to the greed of the league to increase their franchise licensing revenues - there are simply too many teams. And let's face it - the owners are in it for the MONEY, not the sport. That's where we all get screwed - we love the game, the owners and players profit from our emotions and sentimentality.
My solution? Nationalize it.
[More on my Grand Hockey Strategy to Follow]
So what better thing to do than to write in my site about that most Canadian of topics - the NHL Players Lockout. So what's the issue? The NHL Franchise Owners (aka The League) and the NHL Players Association cannot come to an agreement as to the future division of NHL revenues. The League wants more money and the Players want more money. The League wants a salary cap - the Players want something else. The League is arguing that it has lost $billions in part due to the last collective agreement and they maintain that a salary cap will sort out their problems (their magic number is $32M, which is half the wage bill for the Rangers or Red Wings). 20 of the League's 30 teams are losing money, Tampa Bay is only in the black this season following their Stanley Cup win. Good thing there was that expansion in the 90s, eh?
The long and the short of this scenario is that it's a giant frigging disaster for Hockey Fans. Or maybe not. I am certainly not going to say that a guy with a stick should be making $9M. But at some point in time there does have to be a line drawn in the sand or we recreate the problems of other pro sports - creating a gulf so wide between the rich and poor clubs that their isn't much serious competition within the League. That said, this mess is also in part due to the greed of the league to increase their franchise licensing revenues - there are simply too many teams. And let's face it - the owners are in it for the MONEY, not the sport. That's where we all get screwed - we love the game, the owners and players profit from our emotions and sentimentality.
My solution? Nationalize it.
[More on my Grand Hockey Strategy to Follow]
Team Dynamics a shambles at Liverpool Last Season?
BBC SPORT | Football | Diouf hits out at Houllier
This short bit of poison gives a little bit of insight into the team dynamics of Liverpool FC under Gerard Houllier. I am fascinated to understand who "the French" may have been as there were only three French nationals on the team and none were particularly high profile.
Given the rapid turn around at the Club, it seems save to say that the Rafalution (which has seen, among other things, the breakup of the Team's scouser core - Murphy, Owen having departed) has done a world of good in creating a unified squad.
This short bit of poison gives a little bit of insight into the team dynamics of Liverpool FC under Gerard Houllier. I am fascinated to understand who "the French" may have been as there were only three French nationals on the team and none were particularly high profile.
Given the rapid turn around at the Club, it seems save to say that the Rafalution (which has seen, among other things, the breakup of the Team's scouser core - Murphy, Owen having departed) has done a world of good in creating a unified squad.
Thursday, September 16, 2004
The Highlights.
Highlight Number One: I think things are pretty much close to settled with my new roommate. I caught him at Revival last night as part of a jazz ensemble and he is keen to move in sometime this weekend - actually he wants to paint the bedroom first. Hope to finalize things this afternoon.
Highlight Number Two: Having watched the highlights of the Liverpool-Monaco match from yesterday I again have to wonder what Luis Garcia (LFC's new No. 10) has to do to get a goal - his performance in the match was remarkable. Baros' goal was excellent (and Cisse seems to have an excellent feel for play), but the diminutive player is quickly becoming my favourite member of the Rafalution.
Highlight Number Two: Having watched the highlights of the Liverpool-Monaco match from yesterday I again have to wonder what Luis Garcia (LFC's new No. 10) has to do to get a goal - his performance in the match was remarkable. Baros' goal was excellent (and Cisse seems to have an excellent feel for play), but the diminutive player is quickly becoming my favourite member of the Rafalution.
Wednesday, September 15, 2004
Liverpool Wins! Roommate found?
Listening to the match on the Internet, it would seem that an energetic, attacking Liverpool crushed Monaco 2-0 today. What does Luis Garcia need to do to get a goal? He had no less than 6 quality chances today. Steve Hunter - the LFC.TV commentator - felt this was one of the best Liverpool matches in recent memory. Lots of back-slapping for a vitalized LFC team with great power up front and a very solid midfield. The team plays a struggling Manchester United side on Monday.
Roommate news too - I think I have found a new roommate who is anxious to move in before the week is out! I met David at my open house last night - he's a professional musician from Cuba who recently graduated from Humber College. Will have more to say after tonight... we're off to hear him perform at Revival!
Roommate news too - I think I have found a new roommate who is anxious to move in before the week is out! I met David at my open house last night - he's a professional musician from Cuba who recently graduated from Humber College. Will have more to say after tonight... we're off to hear him perform at Revival!
Liverpool plays Monaco Today
BBC SPORT | Football | Liverpool | Benitez demands Euro focus
LFC is hosting Monaco today at Anfield for their first first round match in the Champions League. Not to go on about it too much, but I think Liverpool's long-term future will very much rest not on success in the Premiership, but in the Champions League Series. Should the team falter, it is quite likely that other Champion League sides will poach the top Liverpool players and it will be just that much harder to attract top-class talent to the team. And this is an uphill climb - as the club is 33-1 to win the trophy. Staying in until Christmas would probably be a reasonable goal for this season.
LFC is hosting Monaco today at Anfield for their first first round match in the Champions League. Not to go on about it too much, but I think Liverpool's long-term future will very much rest not on success in the Premiership, but in the Champions League Series. Should the team falter, it is quite likely that other Champion League sides will poach the top Liverpool players and it will be just that much harder to attract top-class talent to the team. And this is an uphill climb - as the club is 33-1 to win the trophy. Staying in until Christmas would probably be a reasonable goal for this season.
Tuesday, September 14, 2004
This site Number Two in Google!
See the results! Google Search: ben harrison
Take that, Ben Harrison! Yes, I am mad with self-importance as this site jumps to number two for relevance on the search term "Ben Harrison". Even my Trade McCabe campaign is a first page item - too bad there isn't going to be hockey this coming year...
Take that, Ben Harrison! Yes, I am mad with self-importance as this site jumps to number two for relevance on the search term "Ben Harrison". Even my Trade McCabe campaign is a first page item - too bad there isn't going to be hockey this coming year...
The Rising Liverpool Tide
Liverpool defeated weak West Brom over the weekend 3-0 and I have yet to catch the game - I will have to see about getting my internet connection working at the apartment. From what I've read, the big star of the match was new signing Luis Garcia, whose role as attacking midfielder seemed to really get things going. Rafa Benitez is still tinkering with the team makeup and Liverpudlians are getting worked up about future matches and the apparent wealth of talent the team now seems to possess as new signings catch on and long-time players step up (an example - once endangered Finnan scored on Saturday and is apparently now favoured in RB's eye). What makes me excited as the season goes forward is the apparent excitement of the team - the players seem to be genuinely interested in playing competitive football and are adapting to Benitez' new methods and strategies.
Not so Bad?
The Apartment situation may not be as bad as it first appeared - I had numerous calls yesterday and have made arrangements to show the place to four people tonight! I did not think it would take until Monday for the Saturday advertisement to produce results. Clearly this is a renter's market.
Economy saved by Ebay!
*** Warning to Republicans:
Reading the following entry will violate your loyalty oath!***
Here's another outrageous Cheney quote to chew on - it seems the VeePee believes that the recent employment numbers showing a major lost in American Jobs is not a result of White House economic policies, but is representative of a massive shift of workers to E-Bay! One word reply - Crazy! Hmm... if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck...
Reading the following entry will violate your loyalty oath!***
Here's another outrageous Cheney quote to chew on - it seems the VeePee believes that the recent employment numbers showing a major lost in American Jobs is not a result of White House economic policies, but is representative of a massive shift of workers to E-Bay! One word reply - Crazy! Hmm... if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck...
Monday, September 13, 2004
Not as easy as I'd hoped.
This weekend's attempts to rent the apartment at 303 Crawford were not
very successful - I gave only two tours of the place and had only one
response to my ad in the Toronto Star. This is very disconcerting. The
two people who toured the place were fine and I would have no problem
renting to them - I guess I'll have to wait and see if they will call
(but as they didn't call yesterday I'm not very hopeful). Thinking
about this is not how I'd planned to spend my September.
very successful - I gave only two tours of the place and had only one
response to my ad in the Toronto Star. This is very disconcerting. The
two people who toured the place were fine and I would have no problem
renting to them - I guess I'll have to wait and see if they will call
(but as they didn't call yesterday I'm not very hopeful). Thinking
about this is not how I'd planned to spend my September.
Friday, September 10, 2004
Dining at IKEA
Last night's dinner at IKEA was quite good and pretty cheap. The IKEA shopping excursion was mostly successful - actually seeing and handling a few of the items on my list (rather than looking at online catalogue snaps) made me realize that they wouldn't fit the bill. In some cases I was able to find suitable replacement products and in other cases I had to rethink my plans. Nothing too radical. I am currently still without blinds in my bedroom as IKEA was out of stock - I probably won't be charged with indecent exposure until the leaves fall off the maple in the front of my windows. I think I was mostly successful in fighting off the IKEA impulse purchase - my spaghetti holder really is a hygienic move, the wine rack is for safety and the $4.50 glass vase is ideal to house my Venus Flytrap. Perhaps the corner shelf option - shelf, pots and three small cacti was frivolous - but anyone with unboxed Caban rechargeable candles (Karina) is not one to judge. :P
I have had 4 queries on the apartment so far without major press - I have an ad running in the Saturday edition of the Toronto Star. Of the four callers, two seem odd - one left a message but no name, another a bad number with a Vancouver area code.
Tomorrow is Infoware's summer party and I'm going to have to scramble late tomorrow afternoon in order to make it in good time. Also tomorrow Liverpool plays West Brom - lets hope that the continuing tutelage of coach Benitez can start to create some more consistent form from the side.
I have had 4 queries on the apartment so far without major press - I have an ad running in the Saturday edition of the Toronto Star. Of the four callers, two seem odd - one left a message but no name, another a bad number with a Vancouver area code.
Tomorrow is Infoware's summer party and I'm going to have to scramble late tomorrow afternoon in order to make it in good time. Also tomorrow Liverpool plays West Brom - lets hope that the continuing tutelage of coach Benitez can start to create some more consistent form from the side.
Thursday, September 09, 2004
When Animals attack!
CNN.com - Pup shoots man, saves litter mates
To understand how this happened, I'm pretty sure I need a re-enactment.
In other news - Jacques Chirac's personal habits are in the press? First it is reported that as mayor of Paris he ate 100 kilos of apples a day, then as President he takes a convenient flight path so he can get sleep (which seems perfectly reasonable).
To understand how this happened, I'm pretty sure I need a re-enactment.
In other news - Jacques Chirac's personal habits are in the press? First it is reported that as mayor of Paris he ate 100 kilos of apples a day, then as President he takes a convenient flight path so he can get sleep (which seems perfectly reasonable).
England Wins, Cleaning Complete
England won their World Cup Qualifying match yesterday, momentarily
silencing their critics as they defeated a strong Polish side 2-1. I
didn't catch the match, so I guess I'll have to track highlights down.
The cleaning of the apartment is almost complete - I just have to put
away the cleaning materials and straighten up a little bit of the
furniture. Tonight we're headed to IKEA where I need to pick up
kitchen shelves, a shower rod, hooks, a towel rail, a kitchen waste bin, and blinds. It might be nice to get a new kitchen table, but I fear Karina would lose it on me. I'm going to have to reorganize my room as well.... Do I need more storage?
silencing their critics as they defeated a strong Polish side 2-1. I
didn't catch the match, so I guess I'll have to track highlights down.
The cleaning of the apartment is almost complete - I just have to put
away the cleaning materials and straighten up a little bit of the
furniture. Tonight we're headed to IKEA where I need to pick up
kitchen shelves, a shower rod, hooks, a towel rail, a kitchen waste bin, and blinds. It might be nice to get a new kitchen table, but I fear Karina would lose it on me. I'm going to have to reorganize my room as well.... Do I need more storage?
Wednesday, September 08, 2004
Cleaning House
Oh, I'm so witty for this heading! HARHARHAR. Today's message is "Thank goodness for Dollar Stores" as yesterday I was able to pick up almost all the materials I required at a store in Kensington market for my cleaning of the apartment. The cleaning didn't go quite so well as I still have much work to do. Thanks to Karina for all her help. Tonight I'm probably going to cancel boxing so that I can get the cleaning done - the remaining tasks are to finish tidying the kitchen, strip and mop the floor and attack the grimier parts of the bathroom. I will need to return to Kensington for some more supplies.
Neal has made a good point on his website regarding the US election - the election has gone under-handed and Cheney's diatribes scarce the hell out of me as they seem so disconnected from the day-to-day evidence. The man is a reckless scaremonger and outright dangerous. It terrifies me that people will listen to the man - if I remember correctly it was the Bush-Cheney team that was asleep at the wheel at the time of 9/11. Hey, Dick, Start many Civil Wars lately? Dennis Miller was congratulating Bush on a nice speech at the convention last night - yeah, I'm happy too that the guy can read Dennis, too bad his international and economic policies are a pile of cr#p. And what about that record deficit, eh? Remember when the Republicans were chasing Clinton for his spending sprees? Cheney saying "Kerry=Death for Americans", that's SO upsetting.
Neal has made a good point on his website regarding the US election - the election has gone under-handed and Cheney's diatribes scarce the hell out of me as they seem so disconnected from the day-to-day evidence. The man is a reckless scaremonger and outright dangerous. It terrifies me that people will listen to the man - if I remember correctly it was the Bush-Cheney team that was asleep at the wheel at the time of 9/11. Hey, Dick, Start many Civil Wars lately? Dennis Miller was congratulating Bush on a nice speech at the convention last night - yeah, I'm happy too that the guy can read Dennis, too bad his international and economic policies are a pile of cr#p. And what about that record deficit, eh? Remember when the Republicans were chasing Clinton for his spending sprees? Cheney saying "Kerry=Death for Americans", that's SO upsetting.
England v Poland Today
BBC SPORT | Football | Internationals
Coach Sven-Goran Eriksson may have his job on the line not for off-field escapades but for his failure to get England to advance in World Cup qualifying. Beckham is deservedly getting some heat - his play has left much to be desired in recent major international matches.
Coach Sven-Goran Eriksson may have his job on the line not for off-field escapades but for his failure to get England to advance in World Cup qualifying. Beckham is deservedly getting some heat - his play has left much to be desired in recent major international matches.
Tuesday, September 07, 2004
(Clean) Roommate Required
Have a ton of work to do today. In addition to my numerous Infoware projects and deadlines, I will likely have to spend the better part of tonight continuing to clean my apartment - the kitchen is in incredible disarray.
Why the sudden commitment to getting the apartment spic-and-span? I need to find a need roommate. It seems that after several months of living out-of-town, my roommate has finally graced me with the information that he has moved out... And stopped paying rent a couple months ago. ARGH! In the interim he had made arrangements to sublet his place (a story in itself) and the combination of my absent self, the roommate and the slob of a sub-tenant has meant that the apartment is in no shape to be shown. Had a frank conversation with the landlord and he is pretty frustrated - I am now going to be responsible for finding a roommate and collecting the rent. ARGH! Of course this all could have been avoided if the roommate had let me know his plans some time back - he had decided but chose to keep the information to himself.
Today's morning meeting went OK. The manager's real interest is hopefully more than it seems - he was interested in our products, but has "Caretaker" written all over his forehead.
Why the sudden commitment to getting the apartment spic-and-span? I need to find a need roommate. It seems that after several months of living out-of-town, my roommate has finally graced me with the information that he has moved out... And stopped paying rent a couple months ago. ARGH! In the interim he had made arrangements to sublet his place (a story in itself) and the combination of my absent self, the roommate and the slob of a sub-tenant has meant that the apartment is in no shape to be shown. Had a frank conversation with the landlord and he is pretty frustrated - I am now going to be responsible for finding a roommate and collecting the rent. ARGH! Of course this all could have been avoided if the roommate had let me know his plans some time back - he had decided but chose to keep the information to himself.
Today's morning meeting went OK. The manager's real interest is hopefully more than it seems - he was interested in our products, but has "Caretaker" written all over his forehead.
The Weekend.
This weekend didn't quite meet with my expectations. I worked late at
Infoware on Friday night then lost a painful 70 cents playing nickel poker (I need more practice).
After a vigorous workout with Humberto in the morning , Karina and I made it out to Andrew and Lynne's housewarming in Hamilton on Saturday (the house looks tremendous) after which we caught the tail end of Hilary's party in Toronto. Actually saying we caught the tail end is a bit of a lie as the party was still running when we left at 1pm.
Sunday and holiday Monday were both lost to cleaning the apartment. It's a massive task. Until I actually started in on the job, I had no notion how much cleaning there was to do about the place. The former roommate and sub-tenant have both done a lot to contribute to the existing cleaning load.
Infoware on Friday night then lost a painful 70 cents playing nickel poker (I need more practice).
After a vigorous workout with Humberto in the morning , Karina and I made it out to Andrew and Lynne's housewarming in Hamilton on Saturday (the house looks tremendous) after which we caught the tail end of Hilary's party in Toronto. Actually saying we caught the tail end is a bit of a lie as the party was still running when we left at 1pm.
Sunday and holiday Monday were both lost to cleaning the apartment. It's a massive task. Until I actually started in on the job, I had no notion how much cleaning there was to do about the place. The former roommate and sub-tenant have both done a lot to contribute to the existing cleaning load.
Outrageous!
Official Site of the Canadian Soccer Association
Canada was robbed of a win versus Honduras after two highly suspect refereeing calls during the qualifying rounds of the World Cup. These calls were TERRIBLE and stole the game! Yes, it's true that Canada isn't a threat in international play, but how can we expect these guys to step it up if they can't get a fair shake on the pitch? Dick Howard, we need you!
Canada was robbed of a win versus Honduras after two highly suspect refereeing calls during the qualifying rounds of the World Cup. These calls were TERRIBLE and stole the game! Yes, it's true that Canada isn't a threat in international play, but how can we expect these guys to step it up if they can't get a fair shake on the pitch? Dick Howard, we need you!
Friday, September 03, 2004
Siege ends with unplanned Attack?
BBC NEWS | World | Europe | Bloody end to Russia school siege
It will be interesting to see how this story spins out throughout the day. Talking about the Chechen issue last night, I have come to realize how difficult it is for Russia to gracefully exit their Chechen nightmare as they struggle to manage a federation of states lookign for independence. Across the board, the Russian political scene is awash with corruption and desperate poverty.
It will be interesting to see how this story spins out throughout the day. Talking about the Chechen issue last night, I have come to realize how difficult it is for Russia to gracefully exit their Chechen nightmare as they struggle to manage a federation of states lookign for independence. Across the board, the Russian political scene is awash with corruption and desperate poverty.
Assassins have all the answers!
Last night's film Hero wasn't what I was expecting - it was tersely philosophical between scenes of swordplay - but was enjoyable nonetheless (it's hard changing gears when you are expecting a flying kick fest). Astounding visual effects and brilliant cinematography. Imagine Crouching Tiger meets Kieslowski's Heaven.
Thursday, September 02, 2004
Rooney, Loyalty and Football
BBC SPORT | Football | Man Utd | Rooney waiting on scan
Talking with Cashin today I have to agree that loyalty does not seem to be a valued trait in football these days. Rooney was a die-hard Evertonian and has gone to a team he would have once reviled. Will Rooney return the fear-factor of the not-so-long ago ManU side? Time will tell. But for Everton, perhaps Rooney has done them great service - the team is badly in debt and the Rooney deal will boost their finances significantly. Would Rooney have stayed at Everton all his career? It likely would have meant he would have been keeping himself out of top-class competition as Everton aren't going to making a Champions League run anytime soon. Nor are they contenders for the Premiership (even with Rooney). The amazing thing about Rooney is that his premium price is mostly dictated by his Euro 2004 performance - now is that a fair measure of his long-term value as a footballer? In fairness, Alex Ferguson does have an eye for developing young players.
Why no Liverpool news this week? Well with the exception of four players, all members of the Liverpool sqaud have been pulled out for International play (England plays Austria Saturday). All the team is reporting is who they didn't sign or close before the close of the transfer window.
Talking with Cashin today I have to agree that loyalty does not seem to be a valued trait in football these days. Rooney was a die-hard Evertonian and has gone to a team he would have once reviled. Will Rooney return the fear-factor of the not-so-long ago ManU side? Time will tell. But for Everton, perhaps Rooney has done them great service - the team is badly in debt and the Rooney deal will boost their finances significantly. Would Rooney have stayed at Everton all his career? It likely would have meant he would have been keeping himself out of top-class competition as Everton aren't going to making a Champions League run anytime soon. Nor are they contenders for the Premiership (even with Rooney). The amazing thing about Rooney is that his premium price is mostly dictated by his Euro 2004 performance - now is that a fair measure of his long-term value as a footballer? In fairness, Alex Ferguson does have an eye for developing young players.
Why no Liverpool news this week? Well with the exception of four players, all members of the Liverpool sqaud have been pulled out for International play (England plays Austria Saturday). All the team is reporting is who they didn't sign or close before the close of the transfer window.
De la Hoya's Last Hurrah?
BBC SPORT | Boxing | De la Hoya eyes retirement
Oscar De La Hoya, one-time Golden Boy of the Boxing World, but more recently a dull, heavy fighter is saying that his Sept 18th match with "The Executioner" Bernard Hopkins will be his last... let's hope he comes out for this fight as the last few have been dull affairs (although they have netted Oscar millions and he has continued to win titles). Things haven't been the same since the disappointing Trinidad fight in '99.
Oscar De La Hoya, one-time Golden Boy of the Boxing World, but more recently a dull, heavy fighter is saying that his Sept 18th match with "The Executioner" Bernard Hopkins will be his last... let's hope he comes out for this fight as the last few have been dull affairs (although they have netted Oscar millions and he has continued to win titles). Things haven't been the same since the disappointing Trinidad fight in '99.
Wuxia Tonight?
Tonight's plan? To catch one of China's most successful movies that has finally been released in North America - Hero - the Wuxia-genre martial art flick with the astounding Jet Li. Hopefully this film will not be of the Shaolin Soccer mold that looked fantastic but had a horrible storyline. I can't wait.
Wednesday, September 01, 2004
Toronto the Good God.
Ah, the sights and sounds of summer in TO. Today was one of those clear, sunny days when you wonder why there isn't a mandatory holiday on clear, sunny days. The morning sky is bright, everyone is smiling and at any moment you expect to see Meg Ryan bound into view as part of some whimsical Hollywood romantic comedy.
Then the city catches up with you. Blading to boxing at the end of what became a little too warm a day, I really appreciated how hot summer days can make your skin feel like sandpaper as sweat combines with the ever-present grit in the air. And the congestion - both pedestrian and motor- when a guy on blades is one of the fastest moving objects on a main street you've got problems. And the smell - no need to tell you what heat does to things living and dead or their by-products. Then there is the swearing. No less than three drivers in the 2 miles of my trip felt obliged in their haste to get home(?) to say to other drivers: 'F#*K YOU'.
Life in the Big City... you and your pharmacist have got to love it.
Then the city catches up with you. Blading to boxing at the end of what became a little too warm a day, I really appreciated how hot summer days can make your skin feel like sandpaper as sweat combines with the ever-present grit in the air. And the congestion - both pedestrian and motor- when a guy on blades is one of the fastest moving objects on a main street you've got problems. And the smell - no need to tell you what heat does to things living and dead or their by-products. Then there is the swearing. No less than three drivers in the 2 miles of my trip felt obliged in their haste to get home(?) to say to other drivers: 'F#*K YOU'.
Life in the Big City... you and your pharmacist have got to love it.
al-Qaeda Labels of Convenience?
Terrorist attacks in Russia
Putin is trying to link al-Qaeda to the Chechen disaster - 10 years of fighting and thousands of dead. This is a flag of convenience. The fighting in Chechnya and the terror activity is the result of Civil War... and a move for independence that has been sought (I have now learned) for nearly two centuries. Why not let them go? Could it be the oil?
Putin is trying to link al-Qaeda to the Chechen disaster - 10 years of fighting and thousands of dead. This is a flag of convenience. The fighting in Chechnya and the terror activity is the result of Civil War... and a move for independence that has been sought (I have now learned) for nearly two centuries. Why not let them go? Could it be the oil?
ManU's wierd deal with Everton
English Euro 2004 sensation and former die-hard Everton fan Wayne Rooney has moved to big (BIG!) money team Manchester United for £20M. What makes this deal bizarre is that over and above the monies the cash-strapped Blues will receive for their former ace, there is a bonus scheme in place that that will payout to Everton based on future ManU performance. Here's the link: BBC SPORT | Football | Rooney deal explained
