Canadian Health Care and the Waiting Times

Posted on February 20, 2012 by Angie

When the Commonwealth Fund surveyed Canadians a few years ago to find out about their experiences with wait-times in the Canadian Health Care System, some awkward home truths emerged.

As the results were analysed, what became clear was that waiting periods for doctors’ appointments and elective surgery are too long. They are long enough to cause alarm in those complacent Canadians who claim that our system is perfectly functional. The numbers tell a different story.

The Commonwealth Fund study took survey data regarding wait times from 12,000 people in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Australia and Germany. These countries, like ours, have universal health care systems. The parameters of the survey were therefore valid, rendering it a useful tool for comparing our country with the others surveyed.

Tony Peter Clement Was a Canadian Minister of Health Between February 6, 2006 and October 29, 2008, Photo by World Economic Forum, Wikipedia

And Canada came in dead last. We wait longer than the people in those other countries to see our doctors when we call for a doctor’s appointment. Thirty percent of Canadians surveyed, revealed that a six day wait is about average. And Canadians are the most likely of those surveyed to head to the Emergency Room as an expedient way to get medical treatment. Then, once we have a diagnosis of an operable disorder, fifteen percent of us wait for six months or more for elective surgery. Around sixty six percent of respondents reported difficulty in obtaining night, weekend and holiday care. When these findings were announced and discussed in Washington, there were some questions raised in Ottawa.

Canadian Health Minister Tony Clement commented, “The report indicates that Canadians are saying the same thing to politicians that they’re saying to the Commonwealth Fund: access to physicians and access to medical services has to improve.” That’s an encouraging sound byte until you hear another piece of Clements’ wisdom. When confronted with the dismal safety records of Canadian hospitals he says, “That bolsters my opinion that Canada does have to lay an emphasis on patient safety.” What passionate commitment to change! I’m sure that the 28% of Canadians surveyed who reported that they had suffered a medical mistake or medication error would echo that sentiment.

With about one eighth of Canadians surveyed, reporting that they had to spend over $1,000 annually on medical care, perhaps we should look again to the words of Tony Clement for hope of reduced personal medical expenses in the years to come.

“On the plus side, when it comes to access to care without extra payment, Canada stands out very well among the top of the nations. That’s certainly a value that Canadians treasure.”

If it’s really such a treasure, why did 60% of the people interviewed say they felt that Canada’s Health System needs more than a check-up? They say it needs major surgery.

There’s no readily available “perfect example” of how to run an efficient health system. Those who jump on the privatization band wagon may not be aware that the other countries surveyed spend less than half of what the US spends on medical care. That’s a glaring example of how an almost totally privatized system will outspend all estimates, while under-serving the population.

I hope Mr. Clement remembered to pack a copy of the report with the rest of his belongings when he caught his flight home from Washington. Maybe he’ll re-read it at home, out of the spotlight, and resolve to address some of the alarming issues which it raises.

10 Most Expensive Cities in the World

Posted on February 19, 2012 by Mark

One of the biggest factors in comparing cities is the exchange rate of the country vis-a-vis your own. With the economies of nearly every country going crazy over the last few years, the list of the most expensive cities in the world has seen some dramatic changes. Every city is compared against the standard of New York City. The list was compiled by UBS Bank, an entity which measures the world’s financial temperature and these are the results:

1. Oslo, Norway

Oslo in Norway - the Most Expensive City in the World, Photo by Fiulploii, Wikipedia

Those poor Norwegians in Oslo: although they earn more than nearly anyone else in any major city, their money doesn’t go that far. Everything in the city is horribly expensive – and that was before the economies of the world went crazy. It has been the number one most expensive city in the world for two years in a row.

2. Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich in Switzerland - 2nd Most Expensive City in the World, Photo by Andyindia, Wikipedia

Here’s another European city, but this one has a happier story. The citizens have some of the best purchasing power compared to other cities on the planet. However, it’s still the second most expensive city in the world in which to live, so it doesn’t go very far. You can’t win for losing.

3. Geneva, Switzerland

Geneva in Switzerland - 3rd Most Expensive City in the World, Photo by Bart van Poll, Flickr

Those Swiss – gotta love ‘em. The capital of the country boasts the third-highest salaries in the world and also has great domestic purchasing power. Though still the third most expensive city in the world, its citizens are a bit better off than their countrymen in Zurich.

4. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo in Japan, 4th Most Expensive City in the World, Photo by Morio, Wikipedia

The capital of Japan isn’t so fortunate. The city is the fourth most expensive in the world and their workers are paid an average salary compared to others. In other words, they don’t make all that much and what they do make goes almost entirely towards just surviving.

5. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen in Denmark, 5th Most Expensive City in the World, Photo by Martin Nikolaj Christensen, Flickr

Yet another European capital on the list (are we seeing a trend here?). Compared to last year, the Danes are doing a bit better than the previous year, having moved to spot number five from spot number two. The cost of living decreased slightly, but was accompanied by a slight decrease in overall wages as well. Again – you can’t win for losing.

6. New York City, United States

New York City in the USA - 6th Most Expensive City in the World, Photo by Terabass, Wikipedia

Since NYC is the baseline score, it’s kind of hard to compare it to anything else on the list. However, according to other reports, the cost of living hasn’t changed much in the city for the past few years anyway.

7. Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm in Sweden - 7th Most Expensive City in the World, Photo by Max Anderson, Wikipedia

This is the third Scandinavian city on the list, Stockholm’s story is somewhat like its economy: depressing. Rental prices were driven up while wages fell along with domestic purchasing power. They got the worst of everything, moving them from the previous year’s No. 16 to seventh.

8. Toronto, Canada

Toronto in Canada - 8th Most Expensive City in the World, Photo by caribb, Flickr

Toronto’s growth has been great for its citizens. But the city just can’t seem to break the economic laws of supply and demand. With an greatly increased median wage income comes increased prices – for everything. Like Stockholm, Toronto is also suffering from high rental prices, driving its cost-of-living rate to eighth on the list.

9. Montreal, Canada

Montreal in Canada - 9th Most Expensive City in the World, Photo by S. Lacasse, Wikipedia

Montreal jumped a number of spots on two different scales. Like Toronto, it saw its wages increase quite a few spots compared to other major cities. Also like Toronto, rental prices skyrocketed, taking the city from the 31st most expensive city in the world to 9th.

10. London, England

London in England, 10th Most Expensive City in the World, Photo by dirac3000, Flickr

Completing the list at number ten is the last of the European capitals. While the median salaries of its inhabits didn’t change much from the previous period, the cost to rent a place to inhabit did. The city witnessed nearly as dramatic of a change as Montreal, zooming from 21st to 10th.

Ten Questions That Keep Me Awake at Night

Posted on February 19, 2012 by YellowFrog

#1 Question That Keeps Me Awake at Night

Why doesn’t the Flat Earth Society put up warning signs to prevent the rest of us from walking or sailing off the end of the world? If they truly believe the earth is flat, it seems like the least they could do for all the skeptics would be to ensure proper signage.

#2 Question That Keeps Me Awake at Night

Why don’t school boards provide crossing guards with cameras to snap pictures of vehicles driven by people who refuse to slow down and stop for kids trying to cross the road? Wouldn’t this reduce the number of close calls and accidents around schools?

Sleepless at Night, Photo by Hermes, Flickr

#3 Question That Keeps Me Awake at Night

Why isn’t there an optional questionnaire attached to birth certificates to ensure that everyone knows who their parents are? Adoptions and sperm-donor babies would need to be handled differently, of course. Don’t worry that this would kill the popular hobby of genealogical research. There are always going to be huge gaps to be filled in, from years gone by.

#4 Question That Keeps Me Awake at Night

Why don’t the rocket scientists of the world get together and figure out one measurement system for use in the kitchen? It’s a struggle for the math-challenged among us to bake and cook when we’re constantly switching between the Metric and Imperial systems. Why can’t someone come up with a new, universal system, using a new measurement entirely? They could call it the Newly Ordained Fully Universal System (for) Simplifying Nutrition or No Fuss’n for short.

#5 Question That Keeps Me Awake at Night

Why can’t we end World Hunger? Everyone I know would happily give a sizeable, mandatory annual donation if they could only be guaranteed never to have to look at any more heart-rending ads about starving children at suppertime. This would need to be a new program which had been hammered out by the G7 nations and enforced by all. Surely it’s not impossible?

#6 Question That Keeps Me Awake at Night

Does anyone know if those little headlight “windshield wipers” really exist, or is it only in James Bond movies? Canadian Tire doesn’t have them! They’d be great in mud and snow, for rural dwellers.

#7 Question That Keeps Me Awake at Night

How can I legally drive my car into town? I bought an ’81 Honda at the car auction two years ago. I’m a short person, and I need the seat all the way forward. Seatbelts were shorter in 1981, and it won’t fit around me with the seat so far forward. I tried to buy a seatbelt extender but they are no longer sold because of liability concerns in case of lawsuits. I called all the body shops in town, and the wreckers. No luck. I even went into the Honda dealership, but they said there are none available from Honda. I thought I might drive it to the cop shop and throw myself on their mercy. But would they ticket me, as seatbelts are mandatory here? How did I get it home from the Auction? I’ll never tell!

#8 Question That Keeps Me Awake at Night

We’ve all heard of “boomerang kids” who find living on their own too expensive and opt to move back into the empty nest. But does anyone else have boomerang dogs? I sure do. These are the mutts which kids own before leaving home. They take the pooch with them when they go, but, for any number of reasons, they bring it back soon after. They assure their tight–lipped parents that this is only a temporary arrangement. When their circumstances allow, they’ll be back to pick up Rover. Then, after handing over a neatly printed sheet of instructions regarding feeding and exercise, (like we don’t know!) they’re off to get on with their lives. There are more baby-boomers out there struggling with geriatric dogs than you may have noticed. Just watch for frail elderly people struggling with 50 pound bags of dog food. Watch for middle agers being dragged through hedges by big unruly dogs. You’ll see seniors, wrangling unsuitable dogs, if you look. Anyone else dealing with this?

#9 Question That Keeps Me Awake at Night

Does anyone know of a Canadian webcam positioned to broadcast pictures of Bigfoot? Like the NessieCam in Scotland, you know.

#10 Question That Keeps Me Awake at Night

Who killed J. R.? No, really, I’ve forgotten.

Charles Stewart Parnell and the History Behind the Word Boycott

Posted on February 17, 2012 by Angie

When you withdraw your support, patronage, respect, attention and involvement from an event, you are boycotting it. But where did that expression come from? What is the origin of and the history behind the word boycott?

The Irishman by the name of Charles Stewart Parnell (1846 – 1891) was a landowner and politician. He came from a distinguished family, even having links to royalty. Despite his comfortable personal background, he upheld the rights of the impoverished Irish tenant farmers. It was common in those days for absentee landlords to evict tenants when they were unable to pay the originally agreed-upon rent. These hard hearted managers would also announce huge rent increases and brutally enforce evictions when the tenants could not pay.

Charles Stewart Parnell, Photo by Mathew Brady and Levin Corbin Handy, Library of Congress ID cwpbh.03648

Charles Parnell was in favor of land reform. He advocated the strategy of refusing to leave when evicted, and of standing firm against all attempts to be dumped homeless into the countryside. Charles Parnell promoted the idea that landlords who refused to be fair enough to lower prohibitively high rents, should be ignored and cold shouldered by his supporters. Likewise, people who moved into the empty homes of evicted peasants were to be ostracized and ignored. These were strong tactics, and naturally there was much opposition to this system. Parnell’s words struck a chord with the tenants of the big estates. They extended their “cold shoulder” tactics to the agents who carried out the work of the absentee landowner.

The Earl of Earn in County Mayo was an absentee landlord who held vast properties in Ireland. In 1880 the Earl hired an experienced military man to act on his behalf on his Irish estates. That man was Charles C. Boycott. His dedication to his employer’s interests was such that he followed his instructions to raise rents and to evict tenants to the very letter. Parnell’s Irish Land League became involved, and Charles C. Boycott and his family soon found themselves completely isolated, and barely able to survive. Their servants all quit – both the farmhands and house staff. When Boycott tried to go and buy provisions for himself and his family, no one would sell to him. His household was even refused mail delivery.

This concerted ostracism of the Boycott family was further aggravated when the crops were ready for harvesting. The locals refused to do this seasonal chore. The landlord would have suffered financial consequences if the crops were left to rot in the fields. Although 50 men from outside the local area offered to harvest the crops, they had to be protected and escorted by a force of 1,000 policemen and soldiers. Parnell had specifically insisted that violence was not to be a part of the isolation tactic. We’ll never know if violence was ever likely. None took place. Needless to say, these security services cost more than the amount realized by the harvest.

Charles Cunningham Boycott (1832-1897), Caricature by Leslie Ward for Vanity Fair Magazine, Image in Public Domain

The outrage caused by this entire episode was reported far and wide, and Boycott’s name began to be associated with the withdrawal of all social and business contact from a person or organization. By November of 1880, the Times used the term “boycott” with the meaning that it has today.

The term Boycott has now grown and widened to encompass many different situations. The boycott is used to make a point in labor disputes, as well as to highlight perceived social injustices. I’m sure the people who still bear this name look toward their famous ancestor with mixed emotions.

Parental Pressure on Child Actors

Posted on February 13, 2012 by Angie

When Noel Coward wrote “Don’t Put Your Daughter On The Stage, Mrs. Worthington” song in 1935, it was really just a comical way of listing the reasons why a young person shouldn’t pursue an acting career. His lyrics suggest that the theatre provides a challenging lifestyle, and that Mrs. Worthington’s daughter probably wouldn’t find success there. Well, things haven’t gotten any better, have they?

The current crop of has-been child celebrities includes many obviously lost waifs. They found acclaim and success early in life and are now trying to enjoy themselves without any of the restraints that regular people have. Some of them flirt with the publicity, while others shun it. Some seem to hurtle headlong through a world rife with temptations and short on love. Their exploits keep the tabloids in business and Hollywood abuzz. Even Noel Coward would probably fail to see the humor in today’s version of celebrity life.

Cast Members of Diff'rent Strokes Lead Adult Lives Plagued by Bankruptcy, Legal Trouble and Drug Abuse, TV Clipping Scan by Shavar Ross, Flickr

Pushy parents still shove unwilling children into the limelight. In many notable cases the parents have succeeded in having greatness thrust upon their children and then plundering their offspring’s fortunes. Many of these young stars complete their major earning years when their contemporaries are dealing with childhood’s more mundane challenges. And when the non-celebrity kids are finishing high school and looking to earning a living, the celebrity kids are busy discovering that their highest grossing years are behind them. Who could blame them for experimenting with their new-found freedom? Who could doubt their bewilderment when they begin to understand their status as ex-child-stars who are not really box office magic now that they’re older?

The adults who put their children in these positions are frequently living their own dreams vicariously through their kids. And they have a lot to answer for. Their own celebrity obsession and twisted take on life make them the least likely mentors to guide the young people through the inevitable transition to normal life. When they abdicated their power and influence over their children to studio “teachers” and directors, they lost any chance of keeping their children’s filial respect. The struggling young celebrities are left to swim in a shark infested pool where they are frequently found, mauled and regurgitated, broken, bruised, or dead.

This doesn’t have to happen and many of Hollywood’s sadder and wiser products labor tirelessly to curb the baby pushers and prevent them from robbing their kids of their formative years.

There is a Non Profit Society in California called “A Minor Consideration”. This watchdog group was founded by Paul Peterson who started his acting career on the Donna Reed Show. But his years on the show left him typecast and ill prepared for regular life. His organization is dedicated to improving the working conditions of child actors, and to helping them make good transitions after their child star career is over.

He writes about the illegal and hurtful practices in Hollywood, even today. He shudders to think what goes on in the lives of young actors whose employers are less scrutinized than those on his beat.

There will always be child actors in our culture, as entertainment is never going to lose its appeal. I don’t doubt that there are many children who will be able to dance across the Theatre’s treacherous boards and make good choices for their later lives. But when I look at the self absorbed, self destructive, lost souls currently adorning the front pages of the tabloid newspapers, my heart goes out to those unfortunate young people who were never given the chance to be themselves before they had to start portraying their interpretations of other people.

How can parents put this pressure on their kids? It’s a telling point that most adult stars readily admit that they actively discourage their kids from getting into acting.

Astrology Animals of the Chinese Zodiac

Posted on February 12, 2012 by YellowFrog

Chinese New Year is an upbeat and optimistic time for Chinese people, and for many others who choose to follow the Chinese astrology system instead of the western tradition. This ancient zodiac system is based on the lunar calendar, which was in use in China until 1911. Although China adopted the western New Year at that time, the ancient Chinese zodiac is still revered. It currently has a multitude of ceremonial and other emotionally meaningful uses among Chinese people worldwide. Many Western people today also turn to the ancient Chinese lunar cycles for clues about their own personalities, and to try to see what their New Year may hold.

Chinese Astrology - Circle of 12 Animals of the Zodiac, Photo by GanMed64

The Chinese Lunar New Year occurs between late January and early February. The years are arranged in 12 year cycles, each year in the cycle is associated with a specific animal. Babies are believed to have the characteristics of the animal associated with their birth year.

How Does the 12 Year Cycle Work?

The year 2012 is the Year of the Dragon. By subtracting 12 years at a time, we can see that recent Dragon years were 2000, 1988, 1976 and 1964.
The same system will reveal when each of the other animals’ years occurred.

A student of the Chinese system can identify the animal associated with a given year, as long as he knows the most recent occurrence of that animal’s year. For example, if a person tried to find out what animal is associated with 1959, his birth year, he could add to 1959 in increments of 12 years. When he arrives at the year most recently past, along the 12 year continuum, (not 1971, 1983, or 1995,) 2007, he must identify which animal is associated with 2007. Any listing of Chinese Lunar years will show that 2007, just like 1959, was the Year of the Boar. Now that he knows his birth year’s animal association, he can find out Chinese astrology’s view of how this animal’s characteristics are expressed in humans.

Chinese Zodiac Animals

The animals revolving throughout the Chinese zodiac cycle are repeated in the following order:

Dragon: 2012
Hare: 2011
Tiger: 2010
Ox: 2009
Rat: 2008
Boar: 2007
Dog: 2006
Rooster: 2005
Monkey: 2004
Ram: 2003
Horse: 2002
Serpent: 2001

When a student of Chinese astrology turns 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72, 84, or 96 it is a lucky and momentous year for him. That’s the year when the outer and inner worlds join to bring him special success and personal fulfillment. He will naturally assess his progress since his last 12 year milestone. He may resolve to recommit to the goals he set for himself on past birthdays. There is regular twelve yearly assessment of progress, to date, and a self examination at the same time. The 96 year old may work diligently toward achieving his goals before he is 108!

What are the attributes assigned to each of the above animals by the lunar calendar?

The neophyte student of Chinese astrology might be surprised at the qualities assigned to each of the animals in the 12 year cycle. There’s quite a difference between what Westerners and Easterners think of animals.

According to Chinese Astrology the Rat is ambitious and honest. He is known to be a spendthrift. He has a short fuse, gets angry easily, and should seek companionship among Dragons and Monkeys. He shouldn’t get involved with horses.

Characteristic of Each Animal of the Chinese Zodiac

The Boar is a shy fellow, but, like the rat, has a hair trigger temper. He is impulsive and honest, but very affectionate and kind to loved ones.

The Dog is honest and shows great loyalty. He is generous but stubborn. He is programmed for success. He should seek out companionship with Horses and Tigers.

The Rooster is a pioneer spirit, questing after knowledge, and willing to work. He can be both selfish and eccentric.

The Monkey is an intelligent fellow, and he can influence others easily. He would make a great politician. He loves to learn, and is talented and inventive.

The Ram is described as an elegant and creative type, best suited to a life in the Arts. He is timid but passionate. The Ram should socialize with Hares and Boars. He should steer clear of Oxen.

The Horse is popular and cheerful, despite being impatient. He’s skilled with money, and always a winner. He should socialize with Tigers and Dogs.

The Serpent is vain, intense and wise. He’s great with money, as well as passionate and determined. He should get cozy with the Rooster and the Ox.

The Dragon is very excitable, and although he’s stubborn, he has a soft heart. He can lead with great expertise. Dragons get on well with Monkeys and Rats.

The Hare is the luckiest of all the signs. He’s shy, despite his many talents. He’s very affectionate, and craves a peaceful life. He should team up with a Ram or a Boar but avoid all Roosters.

The Tiger has a fighting spirit. He is aggressive and brave. He’s a sensitive deep thinker who will support his friends through thick and thin. He does well when spending time with Horses and Dogs.

An elementary search of the internet will yield huge and detailed amounts of information about this fascinating subject. I am a Rat, married to a rat. Apparently we’re of the “pack-rat” variety. We’re both spendthrifts, as per the chart. What I don’t understand is, in Western astrology I am under the Sagittarius sign. My Western astrology charts just rave about my love of horses, and my special affinity for them. My Chinese astrology investigations suggest that I should avoid horses, at all costs. Maybe those are why I find myself living in a ranching area, but have yet to conquer my sheer terror of horses!

10 Most Active Volcanoes of the World

Posted on February 11, 2012 by Mark

Active volcanoes can be found in many parts of planet Earth yet despite frequent eruptions, there are people who live in their immediate vicinities. Here, in no particular order, is a list of the ten most active volcanoes in the world.

Yellowstone Caldera, Wyoming

Yellowstone Volcano in Wyoming, USA, Photo by WanderingtheWorld, Flickr

Yellowstone “supervolcano” lies underneath Yellowstone National Park. Although it hasn’t erupted in thousands of years, scientists are scared of what will happen when it does. Fears are based on the estimate that the ash may cover half of the United States, causing untold death and devastation. However, it may not happen for a few more millennia, so we probably don’t have anything to worry about tonight.

Mount Vesuvius, Italy

Mount Vesuvius in Italy, Photo by Pastorius, Wikipedia

Remember the story about the volcano that suddenly erupted and covered Pompeii in ash, perfectly preserving some buildings and even people? That volcano is still active and still threatening to suddenly erupt, recreating the event at Pompeii all over again.

Popocatépetl, Mexico

Popocatepetl Volcano Behind Mexico City, Photo by Jorge 2701, Wikipedia

This volcano’s history goes all the way back to pre-contact times. There was a legend in place when Cortes reached Tenochtitlan. The volcano has had nearly-constant activity since 1994 and is a major threat to the capital city which is also one of the largest cities in the world.

Sakurajima, Japan

Sakurajima Volcano in Japan, Photo by shiokaze_k, Flickr

Once an island, the volcano is now connected to the mainland because of lava flows. Sakurajima is very active, with 45 eruptions recorded since 1955.

Galeras, Colombia

Galeras Volcano in Colombia, Photo by Jose Camilo Martinez, Wikipedia

Near the border of Colombia and Ecuador lies one of the most active – and deadly – volcanoes in the world. Its deadliness is a result of the severity and suddenness of its eruptions. Tragically and yet ironically, some of its victims were scientists who, after arriving in a nearby city for a conference on volcanoes, decided to mount an informal expedition. The volcano unexpectedly erupted, claiming all six of the scientists.

Mount Merapi, Indonesia

Mount Merapi in Indonesia, Photo by Merbabu, Wikipedia

Mount Merapi is surrounded by thousands of inhabitants, which is incredibly dangerous when you consider it has been active for 10,000 years. A recent eruption left over 3 million homeless.

Mount Nyiragongo, Congo

Mount Nyiragongo in Congo, Photo by Global voyager Nick Hobgood, Flickr

Nyiragongo is one of the most active volcanoes in Africa. Inside of a national park, the volcano has displaced hundreds of thousands of nearby inhabitants over the years. It is noted for its geologically unusual lava lakes.

Ulawun, Papau New Guinea

Ulawun Volcano in Papua New Guinea, Photo by Michael Metzger, Wikipedia

Erupting 22 times since 1700, Ulawun has been almost constantly active for the past few years. It is part of the Bismarck volcano chain and is one of the highest volcanoes of the Bismarck.

Taal Volcano, Phillippines

Taal Volcano in the Philippines, Photo by Mike Gonzalez, Wikipedia

Taal has claimed nearly 6,000 lives over the past century. It is about 50 kilometers from the capital of Manila. It is said to be “a volcano within a volcano” because the current volcano stands inside a crater believed to have been created by an earlier volcano.

Mauna Loa, Hawaii

Mauna Loa Volcano in Hawaii, Photo by NASA - Johnson Space Center

Mauna Loa is the largest volcano in the world in terms of both volume and area. It has been continuously active for about 700,000 years. It is particularly dangerous because its lava is more fluid than other volcanoes, allowing the lava to flow more quickly, covering a larger area than a similarly-sized volcano would.

Robert Bateman – The Power of Negative Thinking

Posted on February 11, 2012 by Angie

In Strathcona county, near Edmonton, the tar-sands are yielding to twenty-first century demands. The valuable fuel which has been present there for so long cannot fight back against investor hunger and consumer waste. Enter Gateway Initiatives. Their plan to ship oil from the Athabaska Region to Kitimat has prompted some near panic in the Environmental movement. Because the oil doesn’t stay in Kitimat. The plan is to ship it in oil tankers south through the Douglas Channel’s spectacularly awesome waterway.

Robert Bateman Unveiling a Sign Naming a Parkette in Toronto, Ontario After Him, Photo by Paul Henman, Flickr

People who care about preserving the pristine wilderness areas of Canada are worried that oil spills are inevitable, and following them, habitat comprise and wildlife extinctions are inevitable. Earth lovers have nightmarish visions of oil spills happening on average every three years. The Dogwood Initiatives website serves as the repository of much of the statistical and anecdotal pictures of the harm that could be unleashed by regular oil tanker traffic.

Robert Bateman is one of Canada’s treasures, blessed with the gift of bringing wild creatures and scenes to life on canvas. His pictures are stunning, as is the price of his creations. The public cannot ever get enough of his work, and many are willing to pay steep prices to acquire a genuine Bateman. So, when Bateman loaded up his black paintbrush on March 24th 2010, and obliterated a beautiful scene with orcas swimming freely, it made no sense to me. This was his protest against the proposed Gateway initiatives. He fears oil spills and their aftermath, and obliterated one of his pictures in protest. It was a sad sight.

Broadcast on the Dogwood Initiatives website, the video shows Bateman engaged in smearing his breathtaking artwork with stroke after stroke of ugly blackness. This form of protest is lost on many people who feel that two negatives do not make a positive. I am one of them. It just makes no sense.

Bateman wants to protest an action which he feels may harm the environment. So he destroys something that is a depiction of that environment in an effort to draw attention to his condemnation of the imminent threat. But the painting he destroyed was probably worth a considerable sum of money. If he had auctioned it, or raffled it, or simply sold it, he could have used the money to set up his own campaign against the Gateway Initiative. The result of this type of protest is usually lost on those not present when the deed was done. To counter this disadvantage, the whole thing can be seen on the Dogwood Initiatives site at any time. But it still rings hollow for me.

When all’s said and done about this protest, we’re left with an intact oil tanker shipping plan and a very ugly canvas. If the picture had been used as a money-making tool to swell the Anti-Gateway lobby’s coffers, we would still have the picture, and the funds to hold public information events, debates and presentations which would inform the public about the Dogwood agenda.

I feel that Bateman’s actions, though well-intentioned, were ultimately ineffective. I quite understand the symbolism involved in obliterating that lovely, natural scene with an oily overlay. I do not understand how Bateman’s actions will help change government minds or in what way it will increase public knowledge about a perceived environmental danger.

10 Incredible Caves of the World

Posted on February 8, 2012 by Mark

Though this list by no means is exhaustive or even a list of the top ten, it is a roster of some of the most incredible natural caves of the world.

1. Velebit Caves, Croatia

Velebit Caves in Croatia, Photo by CyberMacs, Flickr

Part of a series of caves in the Velebit Mountain, the Velebit Caves boast some of the sheerest subterranean drops in the world as well as one of the largest colonies of leeches. Watch your back on both accounts.

2. The Yellow Dragon Cave, China

The Yellow Dragon Cave aka Huanglong Cave in China, Photo by whertha, Flickr

Near Hangzhou City, the Yellow Dragon is a natural wonder in itself. But just in case you weren’t awed enough, officials have enhanced the natural features with a few man-made ones to create a truly surreal experience.

3. Crystal Cave, California

Crystal Cave in California, USA, Photo by Vgane, Wikipedia

This cave is just one of Sequoia National Park’s 200+ caves. Of those, Crystal Cave is the second-longest at nearly three and a half miles.

4. Lechuguilla Cave, New Mexico

Lechuguilla Cave in New Mexico, Photo by Dave Bunnell, Wikipedia

Part of the incredible Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Lechugilla is the fifth-longest cave in the entire world. Its features are so unique that it is off-limits to everyone except researchers and professional explorers.

5. Eisriesenwelt Cave, Austria

Eisriesenwelt Cave in Austria, Photo by Franconian, Flickr

Near Salzburg lies the Tennengebirga Mountains which contain the world’s largest ice cave: the Eisriesenwelt.

6. Ali Sadr Cave, Iran

Ali Sadr Cave in Iran - Largest Water Cave in the World, Photo by Asadi, Wikipedia

One of the more exotic caves in the world, the Ali Sadr contains formations in a range of colors such as red, blue, purple, and green. Its lakes are deep enough to boat in, yet clear enough to see many meters down.

7. Cave of the Crystals, Mexico

Cave of the Crystals in Mexico, Photo by Teravolt, Wikipedia

Perhaps the inspiration for Superman’s Fortress of Solitude, the Cave of Crystals in Chihuahua contains super-sized selenite crystals. The crystals were formed inside the Naica mountain from volcanic activity.

8. Waitomo Glowworm Cave, New Zealand

Waitomo Glowworm Cave in New Zealand, Photo by murdocke23, Flickr

Although the cave is naturally impressive, it’s actually a more incredible biological attraction than geological. The mosquito-sized glowworm larvae glow an intense blue to attract its prey.

9. Phong Nha Cave, Vietnam

Phong Nha Cave in Vietnam, Photo by anthonli, Flickr

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Phong Nha is like a subterranean beach getaway. With a river nearly 14,000 meters long and adjacent sand banks, you might want to plan a vacation there.

10. Harrison’s Cave, Barbados

Harrison's Cave in Barbados, Photo by Andrea_44, Flickr

Words fail in describing Harrison’s Cave on the island of Barbados. Because of a number of unusual features – running water, crystal formations, interesting stalactites and stalagmites – it is reputed to be one of the most unique caves in the world.

How I Saved Water Using Dishwasher and Wasted it Attempting Hand Washing

Posted on February 8, 2012 by YellowFrog

Since Al Gore and others have become so vocal about global warming, we, the people roaming the earth feel responsible for the ecological sins of the previous inhabitants of Sun Planet Number Three. Apparently those uninformed wretches went around despoiling resources both knowingly and otherwise, reducing our planet to a mere husk. Species are disappearing, ice caps are melting, earthly resources are diminishing, and we humans are stuck with this dreadful knowledge.

Everyone who draws breath is being accused by everyone else of using up too much air, too much water and of creating outrageously huge ecological footprints. Anyone who claims to have an environmentally friendly idea is given a podium from which to chastise the rest of us. Enough, I say!

In My Case, Washing Dishes by Hand Wasted More Water than by Using a Dishwasher, Photo by Piotrus, Wikipedia

Let’s take a look at how some of these well intentioned save-the-planet ideas play out for the regular, everyday, guilt-ridden person.

The politically correct way of washing dishes is to soak them first, then wash them in one sink and rinse them in the other. To dry them, we are told to leave them on the draining board where they will air-dry. We must stop rinsing dishes under running taps then using dishwashers to wash and dry them. We’re asked to feel waves of smugness about being eco-friendly by doing the dishes the correct way. Two sinks full of water leave a fainter “footprint” than a dishwasher does when roaring through untold gallons in the wash cycle, and draining the power grid in an effort to dry and sterilize them. Theoretically, yes, washing dishes by hand makes sense. In the lab, possibly it would be a much superior idea. At my house… not so much.

I decided to try this system of dishwashing last week. On Sunday night I put the supper glassware and cups to soak in the left kitchen sink. I left them soaking in very hot soapy water. They were going to be the first of three loads. I planned to fill the right hand sink with fresh hot water for rinsing. The dishes were then destined to be air dried on the dish rack to the right of the right hand sink. I was pleased with the idea of such economy of water and effort. I stretched out on the couch to let the water cool off.

But I fell asleep. I awoke to the sweet sounds of a TV saleswoman who was suggesting that I should lose at least thirty pounds before Valentine’s Day. With that idea in mind I went to bed without seeing what snacks I could find in the kitchen. The dishes went undone, forgotten.

My morning routine barely allows time for getting dressed so dish-washing was hardly an option. Off I went to work, leaving others to fry up the bacon and eggs. In the evening I drained the soak water out and put in another sink full just before we sat down for supper. The meal done, the dishes in the sink were sitting in lukewarm water, with globules of breakfast fat floating on top. I hadn’t noticed that someone had put a bacon dish under the cups before leaving this morning.

So far I’d used two sinks full of water and I speedily drew another so that I could wash the first load. Everything went smoothly. I rinsed load one and put it onto the draining board to dry. With the fresh washing water and the first rinsing water, I was now up to four sinks full of water in total. Into the suds went load two. Wash, wash. Rinse, rinse. No problem.

Then a telephone call kept me out of the kitchen for half an hour. “With regard to your last bank visit, how would you rate your experience on a scale of 1 to 5 ———–?” I needed two more sinks full of water to do the platters, pots, and wipe the stove.

This dismal attempt to save water and time by hand washing my dishes was a failure on every front. I had used six sinks full of water instead of the four that I should have used. I had left particles of food decomposing in my sink for over twenty four hours. Heaven knows what life forms developed in our kitchen that day. I decided that the dishwasher was a much more sanitary way of doing dishes, and have no shame in admitting that in future I will stuff that machine full of dishes, as suggested in the eco-friendly literature. I will switch the machine off before the drying cycle, open the dishwasher door to let them air dry.

Does anyone manufacture pleasing, bio-degradable, inexpensive dishware, designed for one time use? Just asking!