Our Vancouver May 2013 visit

13.05.05: A very good time in Vancouver last month (click to enlarge).

flight of the eagle

13.06.05: He might think of it as Return of the Eagle.

What do you think of Conrad Black?

I was going to include a link to the Star article but I noticed you must pay $5 to include in an email or blog (copyright laws) ... not sure how that applies to links ...

There are more comments about Black in the Star. Check them out via the search function.

Recently, he appeared at a gathering to plug his new book "Flight of the Eagle".

Why does he still have a following across Canada?

He rejected his Canadian citizenship and has been convicted of a serious crime.

Why does the Empire Club still invite him to speak?

Why is he still in the Order of Canada?

Why is he still a member of the Privy Council for Canada?

Why does he still have a temporary visa to remain in Canada?

Why should he be able to regain citizenship (if he chooses to apply)?

Isn't it time we stopped treating him any respect?

Pls read the article and comment (if you feel so inclined).

No surprise - No Seat on UN Security Council

13.05.04: Never-ending stream of negative topics to address with this conservative government.

Not getting a seat on the security council is a slap in the face to Canadians. 
Baird is right in not trying as he would surely fail (and more taxpayer $s would be needlessly wasted).

Hopefully, it (along with the significant waste of our tax dollars in the last few years) will help us to focus on replacing this government asap ... before irreparable damage internationally.

As with many international items, there are various perspective to entertain:

1. Toronto Star May 1st.
2. Toronto Star May 3rd.
3. Toronto Star May 3rd (2nd aqrticle).

While I agree, the seat is not all that important to Canada, it is important how we present ourselves (via our elected representatives).
John Baird has never been politically astute or sensitive. He is an embarrassing representative and never ceases to remind me of his less than desireable behaviour.

The first article of May 3rd, does remind us how Harper has changed Canada significantly (for the worse) in just 24 months.
In my opinion, it began well before that when he ignored significant environmental concerns so more emphasis could be put on shale oil production in Alberta.

Although no political party stands out as best-of-breed, it goes without saying "anything would be better".

I am obviously out of touch as I continue to be amazed how he won a majority in the last election ... and why he chose Baird as Foreign Affairs minister.
Maybe it's a Rob Ford thing...

What NCR means and why we must fight bill C-54

04.12;.13: In the National Post April 3, 3013. 

The article is "Richard J. Braudo on Richard Kachkar: The reason we call them ‘not criminally responsible’".

I have copied the text (sidebar), in case it

disappears.

An excellent explanation by Richard J Braudo (a Toronto lawyer and mental health expert).

 Also, very good rationale why we should appose Harper (again) and fight this bill C-54.

How does your home compare?

13.04.04: Powerstream has come up with a useful presentation of data.
Bar graphs are quite useful for a quick visual summary. 

Their site will show you how your home uses water and electricity ... compared to other homes in your area.

I was a little surprised our home was less electrically efficient than 56% of homes in the area ... and less water efficient than 82% in the area!

I guess changing to CFLs and turning lighs off when not needed doesn't account for much when everyone does it!
Maybe a 12 gallon/day humidifier isn't the way to go...
 
When I thought about it, I attempted to justify our results by thinking other homes were smaller, no inhabitants during the day, did not have an extra fridge and freezer.

What I can do:
1. I may have to borrow the Watt Reader from the local library again and test individual devices. 
2. I need to better understand how to use the Energy Display device Powerstream provided for free.
3. I will take reading of the water meter in the basement, as I turn on and off the humidifier for a few days.

If you use Powerstream, here is how to get to the information:

1. go to Powerstream and sign in
2. click on "Compare Usage in My Area" in right side menu
3. select "electricity" and "amount" - chart will automatically update
4. select "water" and "usage" - chart will automatically update
5. select "usage history - electricity" - to see highs and lows of your usage over the last three years
6. select usage history - water" - to see highs and lows of your usage over last three years

Previous related blog items:

1. Up-to-the-minute Hydro Usage - Dec, 2010 
2. Hydro - Time of Use Pricing - Oct, 2010
3. Powerstream Peaksaver - Jan, 2009

PBO and AG - Required depts

04.01.13: This blog item concerns the government's wasteful and dishonest spending our our tax dollars.
Why is it conservative politicians and senators think it is their right to spend as much as they can, as fast as they can, on themselves?
This last expose on senators Mike Duffy, Pam Wallin, etc, illustrates how stupid they think Canadians are ... and how apathetic Canadians are to bad behaviour by our politicians. Harper implied he had reviewed Wallin's $320 travel expenses (since Sept 2010) and found it acceptable ... later recanted....

Kevin Page has performed a great service for Canadians, as he completes his 5 year term as the first Parliamentary Budget Officer (PBO). 
The mandate is:

"to provide independent analysis to Parliament on the state of the nation's finances, the government's estimates and trends in the Canadian economy; and upon request from a committee or parliamentarian, to estimate the financial cost of any proposal for matters over which Parliament has jurisdiction."
As he indicates, it is political (and civil service) suicide to accept the job of PBO. His replacement has not been named and may not be for some time.

Pls read the Toronto Star article (April 1, 2013). This is another example of Harper advocating and setting up an outside control of parliamentary spending (when he was in opposition) and then disregarding its guidance completely.

Remember Sheila Fraser (pic from MacLeans magazine June 2011), the previous auditor general (see my blog article of Feb 2009)? She performed a valuable and necessary service for all Canadians. What happened to her? Do you remember the criticism she received for pointing out irregularities (aka dishonest and irresponsible use of taxpayer dollars) by Harper's party?
Anyone remember the name of the current auditor general - Michael Ferguson?
Let's see how he gets along with Harper. He must report on progress of Kyoto Protocol every 2 years.

It was the auditor general criticism of senator expense claims that prompted this recent senate auditing activity.

Due to the nature of politicians (apparent total disrespect for taxpaying dollars), every Canadian needs to visibly support these two offices.

Reversing Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

03.05.13: Took the NO test and it was normal. Good to see.

Now to focus on eating more green leafy vegs, less oils and fructose.

02.27.13: Coronary Artery Heart Disease (CAD) is plaque build-up in the arteries.

Heart attacks are caused by blood clots resulting from the inside walls of inflamed arteries rupturing due to plaque buildup.

The fix is all about "cap over the plaque" ... strengthening the interior artery walls.

A summary of interesting facts in Dr Esselstyn's video (2 hours in length, or a one hour version):

1. LDL cholesterol gets sticky (plaque) and adheres to the artery wall beneath the protective layer (inflammation of the interior artery wall) which starts the plaque buildup

2. Blocked arteries (plaque buildup) cause less than 10% of heart attacks

3. Inflammation (caused by plaque buildup) finally ruptures the protective layer on the interior artery wall which causes clotting to occur which blocks the artery and downstream heart muscles die from starvation causing the heart attack

4. Dr Esselstyn is convinced changing what you eat can strengthen the interior wall so that the interior wall does not rupture 

5. Nitric Oxide enables elasticity and strengthening of the inner artery wall to dramatically reduce plaque inflammation and rupturing

6. The american diet will ensure CAD occurs in, EVERY person, before they are 20 years old

7. 45% of USA medicare is related to cardiologists

8. Cardiologists treat symptoms not cause ... so don't look to a cardiologist to reduce your CAD ... they are not paid to do that

9. HDL doesn't have to be high to do its job (return cholesterol to the liver) ... begins to illustrate the complexity of HDL/LDL balance

10. Plant based diet will reduce CAD ... easy to say but hard to do

11. Don't eat anything with a face, fructose, any oil 

12. It has more to do with your diet than your genes

13. You can make yourself heart attack proof in three weeks

14.  Leafy green vegetables such as kale, Swiss chard, arugula, spinach, chicory, wild radish and bok choy are all high sources of bioactive NO 

15. Dark chocolate and wine also increase NO

My conclusions:

Is it possible, most north americans prefer to eat what tastes good rather than what is good for them?

I would like to agree with Dr Esselstyn's approach that strengthening the interior arterial wall (endothelium) will dramatically reduce heart attacks.

If eating a specific diet, that is not intolerable, will significantly help, why not try it?

For those who refuse to dramatically change their diet, there is a lozenge called Neo30 approves by Canada health that will increase your NO ... but it is quite expensive and I am not convinced (yet) it will help much.

There is a test you can do to determine your NO level ... health of the endothelial layer.

Taking the test might help convince you to go the easy route and see if the lozenges help ... or go the more effort route and change your diet.

I am taking the test tomorrow.

Traffic Cameras coming to Markham area

02.27.13: Reported in the Star Feb 22nd.

Intersections close to Markham are: Bullock Drive and Hwy 7, 9th Line and 16th Ave, Major Mackenzie and Kennedy Road, Major Mackenzie and McCowan Road.

Hopefully, we hear more about timing before the summer.

I do get annoyed when drivers begin their turn after the light has changed to red. Maybe this will make them think a little more.

Reapers at Creech

07.30.12: Did you know current day fighter pilots work from home and use a joystick? They don't physically fly their plane!


Times have changed!
No more risk of losing pilots.
Theoretically, these 'pilots' can do their job from a coffee shop.


Full story in New York Times...July 30th.


Reaper MQ-9 specifications.


These pilots now watch the enemy and specific targets with very high resolution cameras, from the comfort of their favourite arm chair, before pulling the trigger on their joystick, firing a deadly missle from their UAV at a very precise target.


An actual strike sequence:




There are more than 1,300 Reaper trained pilots and more than 350 Reapers spread over 13 air bases in the USA. 
They are deployed in Afghanistan and Iraq and watch the everyday lives of many people and wait until the 'target' is away from family before pressing the button. 


Finally, a potential occupation for kids who play computer games all day...

global warming - natural process?

06.16.12 I am amazed by how many otherwise normally intelligent people still insist global warming is a natural phenomenon.


By now, EVERYONE should be on-board this risk management adventure we need to undertake the rest of our lives ... and the lives of our grandchildren ... to ensure delaying the inevitable as long as possible.


It is very simple and daunting.


The people of this planet will invest heavily in delaying the average temperature from rising more than 2 C.


The puzzle is when will we really begin to invest. Will it be in time or too late?


Tyler Hamilton, a writer for the Toronto Star, has produced some very clear and concise columns on this subject for quite a while now.


In his Toronto Star article today, the International Energy Agency (IEA) is now indicating the world must double clean energy infrastructure spending before 2020, to keep average global temperatures from rising 2C. Here is the article from the agency.
To do this, they indicate controlling carbon emissions by moving to clean energy technologies (offshore wind, solar power and carbon capture) and away from fossil burning.
Currently, they report we are on course for a 6 C temperature increase of global CO2 emissions by 2050. CO2 emissions will double by 2050.
They further say "fossil fuels remain dominant and demand continues to grow, locking in high-carbon infrastructure". 


Coming from the IEA is a real surprise, as they have been funded by big oil for quite some time. This 38 year old organization's original mandate was to monitor and manage global oil markets (as a result of the 1973 oil crisis).


They indicate governments are much too complacent ... Harper is an excellent example. 

IMO, there are two stumbling blocks to government positive action:
funding by big oil and fear of not being re-elected.


I do expect a lot from our elected political representatives.
It continues to amaze me why we support them even when they do not do what we ask or expect.
We really do need to be more responsive ... and ensure they are not re-elected.


Bottom Line:


1. the planet must move from fossil fuels to clean energy ASAP by penalizing fossil fuel use anywhere on the planet (and NOT subsidizing clean energy development)


2. the majority of people on the planet must begin to only support/elect representatives who clearly support immediate carbon reduction


3. governments must force closer of coal and oil production (all major carbon production) in the next 5 years

Time to blame politicians ... again

12.05.16: Finally, an elected representative placing blame where it should go for Eurozone problems.


Why is it we continue to support a system that provides our elected representatives the ability to OVERSPEND and then borrow to pay for it ... and then retire with outrageous and unjustified pensions?


Godfrey Bloom (England political representative for Yorkshire and North Lincs):

Decreasing medical costs in Ontario

12.05.16: The perspective from the other side.


In the Toronto Star today.


I don't quite agree with the medical community's stance. 


It is tough to gain support for such high salaries. But the smarter ones know how to use whatever system is in place and it is time our politicians did something to earn their pay ... other than put the country further in debt to fund their misadventures and lopsided pensions.


Something needs to be done to bring these extremely high incomes into line (which, amoung other things, will allow more medical practitioners into the business).


I know it is unrealistic to expect our elected representatives to work towards an agreeable solution, but substantial effort should be made, before unilateral decisions are legislated.

eggs

15.05.18: There is a continuing discussion about eggs and cholesterol.

I am always curious how the medical profession present their understanding. 

My understanding is the body manufactures 80% of our cholesterol and food only contributes 20%.

Here is a report from the Mayo Clinic (Jan 2012) that indicates:    
'Most healthy people can eat up to seven eggs a week with no increase in their risk of heart disease. Some studies have shown that this level of egg consumption may actually prevent some types of strokes.'

There has been renewed interest lately on cholesterol affect of eggs and the thinking appears to changing on impact cholesterol has on a normal body.
i have seen some documentation implying bad cholesterol (LDL) impact on the body is over-emphasized (perhaps by big pharma in an effort to sell more statins) and doesn't really contribute to fatty deposits (plaque) build-up in arteries (heart.org).  

In my opinion from my research, this revised general information (from AHA) about LDL and HDL remain our best detail to-date:

'Although an absolute LDL level that promotes plaque reversal hasn't been established, the American Heart Association reports that a level between 100 and 129 milligrams per deciliter is near or slightly above optimal, while the healthiest level for LDL is less than 100 milligrams per deciliter. 
An LDL level higher than 130 milligrams per deciliter of blood is considered borderline high, and a level above 160 is high and a risk factor for atherosclerosis and heart disease. 
The AHA also reports that maintaining levels of HDL, or "good" cholesterol, at or above 60 milligrams per deciliter can also help promote arterial health by carrying extra cholesterol back to your liver, where it's removed from your blood.' 

However, the last sentence is where some people, who appear to eat low cholesterol diets, have a problem. 
The good levels of HDL are not sufficient to carry excess cholesterol back to the liver or the liver (or bile duct) does not do a good job of getting rid of the excess.

This may be where the confusion occurs about cholesterol. 
Cholesterol is not the problem ... we need better ways to eliminate excess cholesterol.
That is the job of statins. But, for various reasons, statins are not doing the job effectively and have too many unhealthy side-effects (such as muscle pain).

Until I am convinced otherwise, ingesting less cholesterol is my best method of potentially reducing plaque in my arteries (augmented by high vitamin C and L-lysine and high doses of vitamin D3) without significantly increasing statins.

I will continue to minimize cheese, eggs and seafood (but not fish, which should be increased if high in omega 3 - wild mackerel, salmon, sardines), until more conclusive information comes available. 

Opportunity

12.04.30: People are getting on-board


In the Toronto Star today.
Nice to see more negative press about Harper. 
I think it will increase in the next few months.


However, in my IBM upbringing, this is actually perceived as an 'opportunity'.  


I guess that's what business brain-washing does to you...

Global Impact - How is Canada Doing?

12.04.15: Who is winning the Clean Energy race.

A worldwide report by The PEW Charitable Trusts group.


In this excellent end-of-year 2011 report, the current position of the G-20 countries is indicated.


It is an excellent read ... to understand the current global emphasis, position and strategy  of each country.


My focus is on Canada and I am mildly surprised at our status, given Mr Harper's lack of understanding and urgency on things environmental.


Unfortunately, we need to do a lot more! 

Westjet baggage

03.15.12: Interesting details for Westjet travellers


Check the pics for the details.


Certainly seem to favour golfers and those with two carry-on bags.

Water Heater Rental Saga

03.16.12: Case closed ... for now. Revised agreement withdrawn.


03.15.12: Can't get to the Direct Energy website!


There is very little detail on this growing potential problem from Direct Energy.


Here is my interpretation of the current situation.


If you are aware of additional details, pls advise asap!


Hugh Adami (in the Ottawa Citizen) and Ellen Roseman are doing the communication on this topic and Ellen's current article dated March 14th indicates a May 1st deadline.
CTV also has a updated video clearly outlining the problem and actions required. Go to this CTV link and click on "Direct Energy Update". 


The understanding is Direct Energy has sent a letter to all renters (whose contract started before Sept 2010) outlining the revised terms. The letter affects those with rental agreements more than 7-8 years old.


We, and many others, have not received the letter.


For those Ontario folks who plan to continue to rent a hot water tank from Direct Energy, action is required before May 1st (deadline extended), as indicated by Hugh:


"So here’s the company’s catch: It’s up to customers to let Direct Energy know if they want to remain under the old agreement. If customers fail to let Direct Energy know that they want to stay with the old plan, they’ll automatically be switched over to the new agreement on April 2, the day after April Fool’s Day."


I cannot connect to their website but understand the number to call is 1-866-202-1120. However, we have tried calling for the last 2 days and always get a busy signal.
Apparently, you can send an email to rentalterms@directenergy.com indicating you want to stay on the old agreement ... allowing you to cancel a rental agreement at no cost.


We are doing the email right now!


You can also buy out your existing contract (if started before Sept 2010) and continue to use the tank. 
There is a fee for this but it is quite small (Ellen paid $131), compared to the revised agreement coming into effect May 1st for existing renters.
If you fail to arrange for removal before the deadline, it could cost up to $3,000 to have it removed.

What is your sleep position

03.12.12: Recent article in the Toronto Star about sleep patterns and length of sleep required each night.


What position do you use?


" If you worry about waking up in the middle of the night, relax. 
While conventional wisdom tells us that we should get at least eight hours of sleep, a recent report by the BBC suggests that historically our ancestors normally had two sleep sessions: one early evening, a break, and then a second later at night. 


Researchers believe modern sleeping problems may have roots in the human body's natural preference for segmented sleep as well as the ubiquity of artificial light."