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Newsbits | Dave.ca Communications Inc. http://www.dave.ca Connecting social media to traditional media for real world results. Tue, 29 Dec 2015 23:03:20 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=4.4 Statement from Port Moody Police On Violent Port Moody High School Video Game http://www.dave.ca/2013/03/22/statement-from-port-moody-police-on-violent-port-moody-high-school-video-game/ http://www.dave.ca/2013/03/22/statement-from-port-moody-police-on-violent-port-moody-high-school-video-game/#comments Fri, 22 Mar 2013 17:42:45 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=7913 Statement from Port Moody Police On Violent Port Moody High School Video GameOn March 21, 2013 administration from Port Moody Secondary School contacted the Port Moody Police Department regarding a disturbing video that they had become aware of. Specifically, the video depicted a multiplayer first person shooter game that was set inside Port Moody Secondary.

Although the creation of such a video game is likely ill-conceived in the current climate, it does not constitute an offence. Investigators from the Port Moody Police Department have interviewed the developer of this game and have concluded that he does not pose a danger to the staff or students of Port Moody Secondary.

The Port Moody Police Department continues to work closely with all of the schools in our city to ensure that staff and students have a safe environment in which to work and learn.

SOURCE: http://portmoodypolice.ca/index.php

My comment – I never for a moment thought the game / map / texture developer and his team would be of any harm to members of the school, but good on the Port Moody Police for looking into this matter and ensuring the safety of the teachers, students and staff at Port Moody Secondary School.

From Aarman Rahim's Facebook Page approx 8pm on March 21 2013

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Former Amnesty International Chapter President Creates High School Kill Video Game and Reporter Says It Is ‘cool’ http://www.dave.ca/2013/03/20/former-amnesty-international-chapter-president-creates-high-school-kill-video-game-and-reporter-says-it-is/ http://www.dave.ca/2013/03/20/former-amnesty-international-chapter-president-creates-high-school-kill-video-game-and-reporter-says-it-is/#comments Thu, 21 Mar 2013 02:07:51 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=7875 Port Moody High SchoolI have never been much of a gamer. Pinball – yes. Rockband and Guitar Hero on the PS3 – absolutely, CRANK IT UP!

But video games where realistic depictions of human suffering takes place? Nope. Not for me…although I will admit to killing a whack of Space Invaders in my youth…and in my defense, they WERE invading Earth.

Often these “first person shooter” games are based in make believe worlds and quite frankly, I have not paid much attention to this genre. While I do like “combat sports” (eg: Mixed Martial Arts) – those sports have consenting combatants and rarely are guns and murder allowed.

That’s why I was surprised when I saw on Facebook the video below outlining a “Developers Sequence” of an upcoming video game where you can choose your weapons and go on a killing spree at Port Moody Secondary School – a local high school where I live.

The game is being developed by the former President of the Port Moody Secondary School Chapter of Amnesty International, Aarman Rahim. Yes, the former president of a group whose goal is to ease human suffering has decided to glamorize and profit from it.

While the video above does not appear to depict students being killed, posts on online forums (which have now been removed) had Aarman promise that students and teachers would be featured and could be “hero, enemy or collateral damage”. I suppose this is a nice accompaniment to the gun fire, blood splattered walls and broken glass of his former high school as shown in his game.

You would think such a game would be slammed by local media as “violent”, “disturbing”, “insensitive” etc.  Well, one reporter has taken a slightly different tone.

This morning Diane Strandberg, a reporter and Assistant Editor with The Tri-City News praised the game as “cool” and pointed out it had “great grfx” [sic.] on her post in the Youtube comments section of the video. The video and her comment were removed by Aarman at approximately 6pm this evening but as with the video above, I have a copy of her post:

Diane Strandberg's Youtube Post

To be fair, I will point out that Ms. Strandberg made the observation that the game is “possibly controversial”. Let’s review – not “controversial” but “POSSIBLY controversial”. Just making sure I am getting it right – murders at the local high school with “cool…great grfx” is “possibly controversial”. Wow.

While young Mr. Rahim may not fully appreciate the stupidity of his game I would think a seasoned reporter like Ms. Strandberg would which is why I am puzzled by her praise.

A line I have been DYING to use for years will now be written: “Requests to Ms. Strandberg and The Tri-City News for comment were not returned”.

So what do you think? Is this a fun harmless game or something worse? Do you agree with Ms. Strandberg’s comments or do you expect a more critical reply? Looking forward to your comments below.

UPDATES

From Port Moody Police Website:

On March 21, 2013 administration from Port Moody Secondary School contacted the Port Moody Police Department regarding a disturbing video that they had become aware of. Specifically, the video depicted a multiplayer first person shooter game that was set inside Port Moody Secondary.

Although the creation of such a video game is likely ill-conceived in the current climate, it does not constitute an offence. Investigators from the Port Moody Police Department have interviewed the developer of this game and have concluded that he does not pose a danger to the staff or students of Port Moody Secondary.

The Port Moody Police Department continues to work closely with all of the schools in our city to ensure that staff and students have a safe environment in which to work and learn.

http://portmoodypolice.ca/index.php

From Aarman Rahim's Facebook Page approx 8pm on March 21 2013

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Port Moody Mayor Mike Clay speaks out on this game / map on Global TV
Could not parse XML from YouTube
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Facebook post by a Port Moody Secondary School Teacher:

Dear Aarman, I will keep this short. I am glad to here that you were not the developer but I need you to understand that as your former teacher, I am disturbed by the content in the game. I ask that you should reflect upon what has happened. Stop focusing on how the media has wronged you and try to see why this may have been a bad or poor decision. I hope that you understand that by using our school, work place it has made me very sad, upset, perplexed as to why you would have had anything at all to do with this. We all make mistakes and hopefully we can all learn from this.

——————————————————————————————————————————————-

Ms. Strandberg and I spoke on the phone during the afternoon of March 21st.

Great chat w/ @ on PoMo high school killer game. Glad we talked as she is an outstanding reporter. @ @
@davedotca
Dave Teixeira


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Interview from CBC Radio:

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Report from Global TV:
Could not parse XML from YouTube
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Newspaper article from The Tri-City News:

Although Rahim stated that he’s not the developer of the game, he said he did provide resources.

http://www.tricitynews.com/news/199428911.html
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Opinion piece from The Tri-City News:

First-person shooter games are particularly repellant and I am concerned about the long-term impacts of them on the psyche of young people.

http://www.tricitynews.com/opinion/199431361.html
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From the Vancouver Province:

On his Facebook page, former Port Moody Secondary student Aarman Rahim said he supplied “resources” for the digital architecture in the game to the developer.

He took issue with the negative publicity surrounding the game and his involvement, and many of his friends replied to say some adults simply don’t understand video-game culture.

A person identifying himself as Rahim’s former teacher at the school said he was “disturbed” by the game.

“I hope that you understand that by using our school, workplace it has made me very sad, upset, perplexed as to why you would have had anything at all to do with this.”

http://www.theprovince.com/news/vancouver/School+shooter+video+game+targets+Port+Moody+Secondary/8138524/story.html
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Another Tri-City News article:

SD43 is also taking the video seriously and is seeking advice regarding follow-up but it is not known whether the video’s creators will be asked to take it down.

“We are well aware of this, and we recognize that it is a sensitive situation. The district is working with the school on this matter, and is seeking further advice regarding follow-up,” Cheryl Quinton stated in an email following up a News request for comment to principal Karen Jensen.

Meanwhile, Aarman Rahim, who originally posted the video on Youtube but later removed it from his channel, has issued a statement acknowledging that he provided photographs for the game but didn’t develop it.

http://www.tricitynews.com/news/199572571.html
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CBC Report

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Another from CBC:

Alex Devlin, a physical education teacher at Port Moody Secondary, said he was shocked when he saw the map of the school online.

“I love that school,” Devlin told CBC News. “We have amazing students, we have a wonderful caring staff.

“The distinguishing thing about our school is the rainbow-coloured lockers … it makes you feel good. And to see that violence that same senseless violence in our hallway, our rainbow-coloured hallway, it was devastating.”

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/story/2013/03/21/bc-vancouver-school-video-game.html
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Here Is the New BC Liberal Cabinet http://www.dave.ca/2012/09/05/here-is-the-new-bc-liberal-cabinet/ http://www.dave.ca/2012/09/05/here-is-the-new-bc-liberal-cabinet/#respond Wed, 05 Sep 2012 17:33:47 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=7591 Here Is the New BC Liberal CabinetThe BC Liberals today announced a cabinet shuffle.

Here is your complete list of new ministers and former minister positions.

What do you think? Any surprises?

NOTE: Chart below will be updated throughout the morning.

Minister NameFormer MinistryNew Ministry
NameFormer MinistryNew Ministry
George Abbott
Education
Bill BarisoffSpeaker of the HouseSpeaker of the House
Donna BarnettParliamentary Secretary for Rural Communities to the Minister Community, Sport and
Cultural Development
Pat BellJobs, Tourism and InnovationJobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour
Bill BennettCommunity, Sport and Cultural Development
Harry Bloy
Shirley BondJusticeJustice and Attorney General
Stephanie CadieuxSocial DevelopmentChildren and Family Development
Ron CantelonParliamentary Secretary for Innovation & Technology to the Minister of Advanced Education,
Innovation and Technology
Ida ChongCommunity, Sport and Cultural DevelopmentAboriginal Relations and Reconciliation
Christy ClarkPremierPremier
Murray Coell
Rich ColemanEnergy and Mines (Minister Responsible for Housing)Deputy Premier and Energy, Mines and Natural Gas and Minister Responsible for Housing
Marc DaltonParliamentary Secretary for Independent Schools to the Minister of Education
Michael de JongHealthFinance and Government House Leader
Kevin FalconDeputy Premier and Finance
Ric FosterGovernment Whip
Colin Hansen
Randy Hawes
Dave Hayer
Kash Heed
Gordon HoggParliamentary Secretary for Non-Profit Partnerships to the Minister of Social Development
Douglas HorneParliamentary Secretary to the Premier
Rob Howard
Kevin Krueger
Terry LakeEnvironmentEnvironment and Deputy
Government House Leader
Richard LeeParliamentary Secretary for Asia Pacific to the Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training
Blair LekstromTransportation and Infrastructure
John Les
Norm LetnickAgriculture
Margaret MacDiarmidLabour, Citizens' Services and Open GovernmentHealth
Joan McIntyre
Mary McNeilChildren and Family Development
Don McRaeAgricultureEducation
Pat PimmDeputy Whip and Parliamentary Secretary for the Northeast to the Minister of Energy, Mines, and Natural Gas
Mary PolakAboriginal Relations and ReconciliationTransportation and Infrastructure
Linda Reid
John RustadParliamentary Secretary for Forestry to the Minister of Forests, Land and Natural Resource
Operations
John Slater
Ben StewartCitizens’ Services and Open Government
Moira StilwellSocial Development
Ralph Sultanof State for Seniors
Steve ThomsonForests, Lands and Natural ResourcesForests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
Jane ThornthwaiteParliamentary Secretary for Student Support and Parent Engagement to the Minister of
Education
Naomi YamamotoAdvanced Educationof State for Small Business
John Yap of State for MulticulturalismAdvanced Education, Innovation and Technology and Minister Responsible for
Multiculturalism
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CKNW Interview: Google to cut 4,000 jobs at Motorola Mobility http://www.dave.ca/2012/08/13/cknw-interview-google-to-cut-4000-jobs-at-motorola-mobility/ http://www.dave.ca/2012/08/13/cknw-interview-google-to-cut-4000-jobs-at-motorola-mobility/#respond Mon, 13 Aug 2012 21:06:55 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=7531 I was interviewed by CKNW this afternoon to discuss Google’s pending 4,000 job cuts from Motorola Mobility. A year ago, Google purchased Motorola Mobility for $12.5 billion and it was thought it was for Motorola’s over 21,000 patents or patent pending applications. Google’s smartphone operating system – Android – represents 48% of the market. With this sort of market domination, why are Google looking to cut jobs?

We also quickly touched on Google buying Frommer’s travel guide.

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BC Conservative Adviser Has ‘Meltdown’ on the Radio http://www.dave.ca/2012/07/27/bc-conservative-adviser-has-meltdown-on-the-radio/ http://www.dave.ca/2012/07/27/bc-conservative-adviser-has-meltdown-on-the-radio/#respond Fri, 27 Jul 2012 17:39:13 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=7468 BC Conservative Adviser Brian Peckford Has 'Meltdown' on the RadioWow!

Anyone who did not think the BC Conservatives are currently a group of angry confused guys with a BIG axe to grind with Premier Christy Clark to the detriment of the people BC needs to listen to the sixteen minute radio interview below.

This morning on CKNW, guest host Michael Smyth took BC Conservative adviser and former Newfoundland Premier, Brian Peckford (at the left in the photo beside John Cummins, who I believe is smiling) to task for saying that BC is acting “un-Canadian” for standing up to Alberta for a greater cut of the Enbridge oil pipeline fees. This was all in response to Premier Clark’s “Putting BC First” initiative.

Peckford – in the words of the BC Director for the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, Jordan Bateman – had a “meltdown” on the radio.

Wow. Brian Peckford setting back the BC Conservative cause big time with @ on @. #meltdown #bcpoli
@jordanbateman
Jordan Bateman

That he did.

He had facts wrong; lied about his past advising the energy sector; shouted over the radio host; tried to distance himself from BC Conservatives Leader John Cummins while saying Cummins should lead BC; and then ultimately Michael Smyth cut him off to end the interview.

A total and utter failure of the BC Conservatives to get their message out in a clear and meaningful way. Instead, Peckford reenforced the sensible direction Premier Christy Clark is heading on this issue.

Brian Peckford – thank-you!

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BC Hydro Presentation on Smart Meters http://www.dave.ca/2012/07/14/bc-hydro-presentation-on-smart-meters/ http://www.dave.ca/2012/07/14/bc-hydro-presentation-on-smart-meters/#respond Sat, 14 Jul 2012 18:06:13 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=7409 BC Hydro Presentation on Smart MetersI am happy to see that BC Hydro has FINALLY made available a well spoken and knowledgeable person to explain the Smart Meter program.

Cindy Verschoor, Manager, Communications and Public Affairs for the Smart Metering Program spent roughly 26 minutes at the July 10th Port Moody Council meeting presenting FACTUAL information, answering the questions from Council and providing responses to earlier concerns from citizens.

I agree with the comments from Council that this information should have come forward earlier. No question. I was also very disappointed to see how some Council Members were using unchecked talking points from the anti-smart meter folks which they then presented as fact. Yikes. Thankfully Ms. Verschoor easily and pleasantly dispelled these points.

In short – and I am totally paraphrasing Ms. Verschoor’s presentation: “Blog posts from tinfoil hat whack jobs SAYING that smart meters are not safe and/or SAYING that health groups have found the meters to be unsafe are incorrect. Not a SINGLE post from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates the technology used in British Columbia is unsafe AT ALL. Please continue living in fear of the 21st Century or better yet, get educated. Peace out.”

Below is the video of Ms. Verschoor’s presentation and as a bonus, the awesome video from StopStopSmartMeters.ca founder Chris Thompson.

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Statement from Darcie Clarke on Vince Li Being Granted Escorted Leave http://www.dave.ca/2012/05/18/statement-from-darcie-clarke-on-vince-li-being-granted-escorted-leave/ http://www.dave.ca/2012/05/18/statement-from-darcie-clarke-on-vince-li-being-granted-escorted-leave/#respond Fri, 18 May 2012 16:00:05 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=7266 Statement from Darcie Clarke on Vince Li Being Granted Escorted LeaveI was greatly disappointed to learn yesterday that Vince Li, who just four years ago in Manitoba horribly murdered, beheaded and cannibalized Tim McLean on a Greyhound bus, was granted escorted leave from hospital.

Mr. Li never served a day in jail for his crime as he was found “not criminally responsible” (NCR). Now, he is a step closer to being permanently released from hospital without a criminal record and without ever having to check in with a parole officer nor medical professionals to ensure he is taking his medication. The Review Board says if he does not take his medication, this would cause “a deterioration” in Mr. Li’s mental state where he could re-offend but they are powerless to ensure he complies with their suggestion.

The Crown Counsel in Manitoba did not oppose the release request and the Review Board approved Mr. Li being able to walk about, shop and interact with the public – all things Tim McLean loved doing, but will never do again because of Mr. Li. As such the Crown and Review Board in Manitoba have failed to provide an adequate deterrent for such crimes nor protect the public from repeated “relapses” or offenses.

Here in British Columbia, Allan Schoenborn killed my three children. Twice before that awful day in April 2008 he was institutionalized and taking medication to curb his violent behaviour, but decided he did not want to “take his meds”. He then murdered my children, ran and hid in the woods for days, was caught, plead “not criminally responsible” and instead of going to jail, he went to a hospital.

Since Allan was found NCR, he can apply each year for release. In April 2011 he wanted out and the BC Review Board almost granted his request without my even being notified. Thankfully public outcry stopped his release.

This past March, Allan asked for an eight month delay in his Review Board hearing. This means in November 2012 the BC Review Board will consider a similar release as Mr. Li’s or possibly a full release as Allan would like. My family, friends and supporters will be fighting to ensure Allan does not get out where he will surely cause more pain and suffering for innocent people.

I have met with Premier Christy Clark; Shirley Bond, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of British Columbia; and Lyle Hillaby with the Crown Counsel. I have their word that they will oppose ANY release of Allan from custody. They will also be working to have the “not criminally responsible” laws modified and rules surrounding annual review hearings for NCR patients changed.

My family and I look forward to meeting with Rob Nicholson, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada this Summer to gain the same assurances I received from his Provincial counterparts: to change the laws so public safety for all Canadians comes before the freedom of violent offenders.

Darcie Clarke
www.4Darcie.ca

– 30 –

For further inquiries please contact:
Dave Teixeira
Dave.ca Communications Inc.
dave@dave.ca

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The Best Government Sanctioned Educational Zombie Videos EVER http://www.dave.ca/2012/05/15/the-best-government-sanctioned-educational-zombie-videos-ever/ http://www.dave.ca/2012/05/15/the-best-government-sanctioned-educational-zombie-videos-ever/#respond Wed, 16 May 2012 00:01:18 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=7240 The Best Government Sanctioned Educational Zombie Videos EVER As you have read elsewhere on Dave.ca, I am not a huge fan of Government videos.

When being kind, I suggest Government attempts at filmography “lack pizazz” and when I’m hitting the honesty button a little harder I write that folks in Government who take stabs at videos are “soulless hacks with no humour, less common sense and have a modicum of talent”.

But this week something changed.

The British Columbia Government’s Emergency Info BC website has a blog which uses the premise of a zombie attack to educate citizens on being prepared for an emergency.

Now, I am not a big fan of the zombie genre, but I am a huge fan of creativity and this campaign has far more than any other Government attempt.

UPDATE: Listen to the first part of this radio interview I did on CFAX in Victoria:

Is it successful? Well, from an awareness point of view LOTS of media are picking up this unique campaign – Globe & Mail, National Post, CTV, News 1130, Huffington Post, Calgary Herald, etc.

By looking at the Youtube videos views for Emergency Info BC, we can see that in the three months the account has been active they have uploaded 39 videos which have received 4,788 views. Six of those videos are part of the “zombie campaign”, uploaded on May 14th and combined have 1,130 views, or 23.6% of the total channel views. Pretty good compared to past channel performance but not exactly in viral video territory.

UPDATE:

May 16th – the six videos now have 9,382 views and all 39 videos on the channel have 11,665, so the zombie videos have 80.4% of the total views

May 17th – the six videos now have 16,192 views and all 39 videos on the channel have 20,202, so the zombie videos have 80.2% of the total views

May 18th – the six videos now have 19,503 views and all 39 videos on the channel have 23,630, so the zombie videos have 82.5% of the total views

I guess over time we will see if folks take up the Government on their tips to be better preparded for an emergency.

I know Government people love taking advice from me on how they can improve and/or make things better for me. With that in mind, I offer these suggestions:

1) Fade out the music on the videos. The music on the five “silent film” videos ends abruptly mid note leaving one wondering what is happening. Sort of like BC Conservative Leader John Cummins looking at a computer.

2) No social media. No mention in the Youtube descriptions, in the blog, at the end of videos, etc. What’s up with dat? Having a Twitter account from a zombie telling the story of how he is finding folks prepared / not prepared would be humourous and engaging. Sort of like the Twitter account by Ted, the teddy bear from the movie, well, Ted or that “Vice President” from Playstation, Kevin Butler’s Twitter account.

3) There was no real call to action other than “come on, be prepared”. Having a contest where folks submit their own photos / videos outwitting zombies or of their own homemade emergency preparedness kits would have brought this campaign home. Plus, target service groups, youth clubs, high schools, and 30-year-old virgins living in their parent’s basements – you know, folks who think zombies are cool.

4) Spend $11 and get an awesome domain name for a year. As it stands, the domain for the blog is http://www.emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca/zombie-preparedness-week-are-you-ready.html – not exactly a solid piece of branding. How about ZombiesAttack.ca or AreYouReadyFortheZombies.ca or TheZombiesAreComing.ca or BCZombies.ca (which, BTW would be a good name for either a band or a political party – your pick)? All those domains (and plenty more) are available as of this writing. Register and then point to your long named blog. Easy and for $11-ish, a cost effective way of “URL branding” the campaign. I made this for you – http://dave.ca/zombies/ – you’re welcome!

5) Finally – amplify! Where are the MLAs from all parties talking about this campaign? With the six videos only receiving 1,130 views there is a serious promotion / hype problem. Using the resources internally (your MLAs and their social media networks) to share the videos and amplify the message will help.

So watch the six videos below and let me know what you think.
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BREAKING NEWS: BC To Form Athletic Commission http://www.dave.ca/2012/05/07/breaking-news-bc-to-form-athletic-commission/ http://www.dave.ca/2012/05/07/breaking-news-bc-to-form-athletic-commission/#comments Mon, 07 May 2012 20:49:03 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=7149 BREAKING NEWS: BC To Form Athletic CommissionToday the British Columbia Government introduced Legislation (Bill 50) to form an Athletic Commission to regulate professional combat sports – Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), Boxing, Kickboxing, etc. – in the Province of BC.

After years of working with various stakeholders including Athletic Commissions, all levels of Governments, media, fans, combat sports companies, etc this is a welcomed move.

In October 2010 I said in a 24 Hours interview: “I think it’s [the formation of a Provincial Athletic Commission] going to happen within two years. Promoters want to be professional, and to do it they have to pay the taxes, fees and have protection from the government.”

This Legislation replaces local commissions with a single Provincial body; ensures participant safety is paramount; codifies and unifies the rules of the sports; and has consistency with fees, taxes, etc.

A Provincial Athletic Commission under the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development will allow large scale MMA organizations like Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to work with a professionally run Commission who are not held to the moral whims of unelected staffers (*cough* City of Vancouver *cough*).

STORY CONTINUES TO DEVELOP – UPDATES THROUGHOUT THE DAY

On May 31, 2012, the Bill passed the BC Legislature to become law!

Read BILL 50 — 2012 ATHLETIC COMMISSIONER ACT

Dave Teixeira Discusses Bill 50 with The Score’s Mauro Ranallo

UFC’s Marc Ratner Discusses Bill 50 (and more!) with The Score’s Mauro Ranallo

From the Vancouver Sun:

Vancouver Athletic Commission member and lawyer Jonathan Tweedale is happy the province has stepped up.

“It’s been a long time coming,” he told me. “This is a great development for MMA in the province. The ones who will benefit the most will be the fighters themselves, who will be protected by better (and more consistent) regulation.”

Comm. Svcs Min @ says new Prov. Athletic Commish to oversee boxing/MMA will be paid thru fees charged to industry, not gov. #bcpoli
@CKNW
CKNW

Looking at the figures from the first two events held in Vancouver, UFC 115 had a reported gate of $4.2 million and UFC 131 did $2.8 million. So 5% of would be $210,000 and $140,000 respectively. Plus the various fees for the event, licenses, etc. Now…imagine a HUGE event at BC Place and those figure would be two to three times higher.

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Copy of News Release from the Government of BC:

Athletic Commissioner Act introduced in the House

VICTORIA – The Province is taking steps to establish a Provincial Athletic Commissioner, who would regulate and supervise professional contests such as boxing, kick-boxing and mixed martial arts.

Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Ida Chong introduced Bill 50 – Athletic Commissioner Act – in the legislature today

The proposed act would establish a consistent framework to oversee the conduct of these professional events throughout the province. This legislation would not apply to amateur contests.

The commissioner’s primary focus would be to ensure the safety of competitors and officials.

If local governments do not want such contests to take place in their communities, they would be able to prohibit these events by passing a bylaw.

Quotes:

Ida Chong, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development –

“The benefit of having a provincial athletic commissioner would be that every professional contest would be subject to the same rules and regulations, whether it was being held in Vancouver, Nanaimo or Vernon.”

“Since sports such as kick-boxing and mixed martial arts are very popular and are taking place without a consistent regulatory framework, it makes sense to be proactive about creating this position to increase the safety of athletes and officials, as well as to provide certainty for communities and the industry.”

Quick Facts:

  • The role of the commissioner would be to oversee the conduct of professional contests such as boxing, kick-boxing and mixed martial arts throughout the province, with a key focus on the safety of competitors and officials.
  • The key duties of the commissioner would be to:
    • Ensure a consistent standard of qualifications and safety protocols for all participants and officials through a uniform licensing and permitting framework.
    • Ensure compliance with the proposed act and its regulations, through the use of suspension or cancellation of licences and event permits, as well as administrative penalties.
  • The Community Charter and the Vancouver Charter now provide for the establishment of local athletic commissions to authorize public events. Such athletic commissions may regulate professional boxing and similar activities, contests and exhibitions.
  • At least nine B.C. municipalities currently have athletic commissions. If the Province establishes an athletic commissioner, both the Community Charter and Vancouver Charter will be amended to remove the authority to create local commissions.
Contact: Jeff Rud Communications Director Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development 250 208-4028
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Weird Als’ New Album Streamed Here http://www.dave.ca/2011/06/14/weird-als-new-album-streamed-here/ http://www.dave.ca/2011/06/14/weird-als-new-album-streamed-here/#respond Tue, 14 Jun 2011 22:51:23 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=4358 Alpocalypse will be released on June 21 via Jive Records, but the full album can be streamed below (thank you Exclaim!).

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Does the Canadian postal strike REALLY affect anyone (other than those on strike)? http://www.dave.ca/2011/06/03/does-the-canadian-postal-strike-really-affect-anyone-other-than-those-on-strike/ http://www.dave.ca/2011/06/03/does-the-canadian-postal-strike-really-affect-anyone-other-than-those-on-strike/#comments Sat, 04 Jun 2011 01:10:43 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=4274 No.

I even made a 20 second video to bring further clarity to my answer on the looming Canada Post strike.

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Anything I can do with Canada Post, I do already over the Internet, with Greyhound (for delivering boxes of Christmas gifts to Toronto) or courier (for the occasional package delivery).

There is not a single bill which cannot be paid by credit card over the phone, Internet or at the mall. You have to leave your house anyway to mail the letter so a little bit further to put it in a drop box is not a big deal. Heck, post date a few cheques, visit the mall, grab some NY Fries and make a day of it.

Ad mail – junk mail if you will (not George Lepp style of course) can be delivered via insert in local newspapers. Or via the ‘Net. Or…not at all really.

Other than Christmas cards, I do not use the mail for sending things. In fact, I know people in their late 20’s who have NEVER sent a letter.

Folks with wedding invitations – you do not have to mail…you just WANT to mail. Are you serious that there is someone on your list without Internet access? Save the money and the environment (go green!) and use a Facebook event or Evite.

If you are a business or online retailer who relies on Canada Post exclusively for your shipments then you are foolish. Think of it this way, you as an enterprising business person are giving over to the government the swift and efficient delivery of your goods and services. (wait for the horror to wash over you) Having only one distribution method is shortsighted. While a bit more expensive, there are other courier or delivery options. Possibly better ones too.

This is not a shot at the hard working men and women who deliver mail. This is a wake up call to you though. You are in a dying industry. Looking for wages and benefits which do not fit with the demand or need of your services is ridiculous.

The Internet along with social media has changed how we communicate. The postal union with outrageous demands will drive those not already using the Internet to do just that.

So to the postal union, thank you for moving forward the Internet and social media revolution while at the same time hopefully forcing your industry to become more competitive.

But let me ask you – is there something you do which must ONLY be handled by Canada Post? Or that they do better or cheaper than another service?

For fun, even Ezra Levant from Sun News made a video:
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Twitter Battle: Rwandan President vs British Journalist http://www.dave.ca/2011/05/17/twitter-battle-rwandan-president-vs-british-journalist/ http://www.dave.ca/2011/05/17/twitter-battle-rwandan-president-vs-british-journalist/#respond Tue, 17 May 2011 20:37:42 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=3680

I have long been concerned with politicians having access to tools they find complicated or are quite dangerous in the wrong hands.

Of course I am talking about Blackberries and social media.

Many politicians forget that social media is public. I can share dozens of stories of politicians saying or sharing something on social media with just their “friends” and then shocked to find out that journalists, political rivals, etc. also have access.

This is why all politicians should hire Dave.ca for their social media needs. That’s a given.

Highlighting this point most excellently just this past week was Rwandan President Paul Kagame who decided to take on British journalist, Ian Birell in a Twitter battle.

This very public battle allowed the world to view essentially an arguement with text language (eg: “dont kno what you r talking”) between two intelligent men. Not sure who won but civility lost.

The lesson here is trying to “one up” someone on Twitter is a waste of time. It is like trying to convince people that Coldplay makes good music – simple minded folks will agree but the world at large just do not care.

Kagame should not have engaged Birell in this manner – and nor should you with angry clients, former employees, trouble makers, etc. Once your on line – and remember, very public – communications are turning ugly, offer to continue the dialogue via email, phone, etc. This takes away the need to “show off” for an audience and to truly have some sort of conclusion to the conversation.

Now, if your goal is to make the other person look bad and/or show off your social media prowess, then carry on. If you want to really learn something about your “brand” or to solve an issue, polite and private is the way to go…then publicly share the end result.

And now for your reading enjoyment, the feed from Twitter Battle: Rwandan President vs British Journalist with special guest appearance by Louise Mushikiwabo, Rwandan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs & Cooperation.

 

 

IB: No-one in media, UN or human rights groups has the moral right to criticise me, says despotic & deluded  @PaulKagame http://on.ft.com/kfJyia
IB: Kagame refused to even answer if he is a religious believer. When asked, he replied ‘Yes and no.’
PK: @ianbirrell. Not you either…no moral right! You give yourslf the right to abuse pple and judge them like you r the one to decide …
PK: @ianbirrell….and determine universally what s right or wrong and what shd be believed or not!!! Wrong u r …u have no such right ..
IB: @PaulKagame Fail to see why you think I have no moral right to offer criticism and opinions. Pls explain further
IB: @PaulKagame And once more, pls explain how and why I ‘just pretend’
IB: @PaulKagame Although aware of what happens with regard to press freedom and those who criticise you in Rwanda
PK: @ianbirrell. Ask Rwandans they will tell u I am not what u call me and I am sure they r not what you think they are…!
PK: @ianbirrell. You have no basis for your comments and you dont kno what you r talking about me or Rw. I will only hold all that in contempt!
IB: @PaulKagame Plenty of evidence – & your statement that no-one in media, UN or human rights groups can criticise you underlines the point
IB: @PaulKagame Presume this is why you dislike human rights groups http://bit.ly/kTG9eD
PK: @ianbirrell. Africa-Rw- will need Africans to work in the lead n in concert with others globaLly who r genuine to put things right….

PK: @ianbirrell. ….not the likes of you who just pretend ….!

IB: @PaulKagame You clearly stated no media, human rights group or the UN had moral right to criticise you…this is despotic and delusional
PK: @ianbirrell. You did not offer any explanation yourslf why you would refer to me as despotic n deluted…did u just want pple to believe it?
PK: @ianbirrell. You were actually just insulting …..!
IB: @PaulKagame You are avoiding the point. Pls answer why you think media, UN and human rights groups have no right to criticise you
PK: @ianbirrell. Why did u think I didnt have a right to my argument with the journalist of FT with whom I outlined that arg.???
PK: @ianbirrell. Is that all u kno about Rw? No need to explain to u anythg? Ask your own govt/leaders to explain to u those same things…
IB::   @PaulKagame How is there accountability when you shut down papers and prevent rivals from standing in elections?
PK: @ianbirrell In Rw.we hold ourselves and each accountable indeed to a high level and even deal with criticism honestly,openly and fairly..!
IB: @PaulKagame And you still have not answered why you think media, UN and human rights groups have no right to criticise you. Pls answer
IB: @PaulKagame Also I know of people living in fear of their lives for daring to criticise you. And with good reason….
PK: @ianbirrell. No, the point underlined is that while some in UN,Human rights grps n media criticise,they r not without serious flaws..!
IB: @PaulKagame Sorry, you clearly stated media, human rights groups & Un have no moral right to criticise you. Not first time you’ve said it
IB: @PaulKagame So if media can criticse why do you clamp down on press freedom in your country?
PK: @ianbirrell….that have to be questioned more often that not ..and dont seem to like it! Probably you dont…yourslf!
PK: @ianbirrell. It was those that were being referred to…!
IB: It is great  @PaulKagame engaging with a critic like me on Twitter. Just shame he doesn’t allow such debate in Rwanda with his own people
Birrell and Mushikiwabo
LM: @ianbirrell: how wish the simple logic of “despots cannot produce content, hopeful, n upbeat ppl” would prevail on Ian. Guess 2 wishful!
LM: @PaulKagame @ianbirell wld u care 2 know what 11.000.000 Rwandans think of Paul Kagame b4 u spread ur formed opinion? 2 big a challenge 4 u?
IB: @LMushikiwabo Had to gauge opinions of Rwandans when govt clamps down on media, closes papers and silences opponents
LM: @PaulKagame @ianbirrell: how wish the simple logic of “despots cannot produce content, hopful, n upbeat ppl” wd prevail on Ian. 2 wishful!
IB: @LMushikiwabo @PaulKagame Don’t understand last tweet but notice you not engaging with arguments like your boss
LM: @ianbirrell @paulkagame Ian what so complicated? can critic but u hav no “moral”(key word)right: PK saved lives, built country n gave hope
IB: @LMushikiwabo @paulkagame So no media, UN or human rights group has any moral right to criticise? Pls explain why that is…
IB: @LMushikiwabo @paulkagame You talk of saved lives. What about all those millions killed in the Congo?
IB: @LMushikiwabo The UN report from last year into brutality in DR Congo http://bbc.in/mcTXHO
LM: @dcGisenyi @PaulKagame @sonjasugira @ianbirrell measure: voter turn out n vote, Gallup poll, watch him w. crowds, talk back Radio Rwa, etc
IB: @LMushikiwabo @dcGisenyi @PaulKagame @sonjasugira Vote marred by harassment & intimidation of rivals, independent journalists & critics
LM: @lilianemukazi @paulkagame @ianbirrell:I kno… Rwaz have dealt w the likes of Ian 4many yrs now: zey keep guess wrong n we keep advance…
IB: @LMushikiwabo @lilianemukazi @paulkagame You have consistently failed to answer my points
LM: @ianbirrell @PaulKagame Ian have u ever heard of Rwa National Dialogue? R u fam w Rwa prez monthly press conf?PK 2 secure 2fear crtics@home
IB: @LMushikiwabo @PaulKagame If so secure no fear of critics why silence rivals & shut down media?
LM: @TLHAGOANE @KevinMcCallum @ianbirrell @PaulKagame papers assoc w crimi nality:no place in Rwa;start by understand what ze print zen we talk
LM: @TLHAGOANE @KevinMcCallum @ianbirrell @PaulKagame polit rivals most welcome, ethnic bigots n genocide ideologues: Rwa no go zone
LM: @MortonAlex @ianbirrell @PaulKagame: good Q. no rivals coz not same league.
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George Abbott on Voice of BC http://www.dave.ca/2011/04/10/george-abbott-on-voice-of-bc/ http://www.dave.ca/2011/04/10/george-abbott-on-voice-of-bc/#respond Mon, 11 Apr 2011 03:23:19 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=3012 Education Minister George Abbott with Vaughn Palmer on Voice of BC.

You know you want to watch the entire hour now.

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Skype, newsrooms and the Japan earthquake http://www.dave.ca/2011/03/11/skype-and-the-japan-earthquake/ http://www.dave.ca/2011/03/11/skype-and-the-japan-earthquake/#respond Fri, 11 Mar 2011 18:08:20 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=2638 The 8.9 earthquake that hit Japan last night is absolutely devastating. I have a few friends there from my pro-wrestling promoting days and through checking Facebook, I found I had yet another friend from the Lower Mainland visiting Japan.

I Tweeted out some snippets of emails I received from my friends in Japan and radio station CKNW asked if I could put them in touch with a friend (Kevin) for an interview. Of course being radio, the mighty NW wanted audio – but did not have a Skype connection that could be easily connected to their soundboard.

No problem – I was able to use Skype to call Kevin then 3 way call to CKNW’s newsroom landline for the interview and all this cost about $3 for the Skype monthly subscription.

If you are a newsroom wanting to do the same thing here is how you do it:

1. Sign up for the Skype account which lets you make unlimited calls to landlines and cell phones in the US and Canada then brand the account specifically for your newsroom. Cost is roughly $3 per month and this will take less than 10 minutes to complete with your credit card or Paypal account as payment.

2. Fire up Skype (yes, I am assuming you have installed, etc – this is a bit of a rushed post!).

3. Add / friend the person with whom you will call on Skype via their username. Sometimes the person has to accept your request, sometimes not.

4. From the top menu in Skype click CALL. A dialpad will appear. Type in the phone number for your newsroom / sound booth where the host will speak to the interviewee then click the big green CALL button.

5. While Skype is contacting your soundbooth, click ADD PEOPLE at the bottom of the screen. Type in the name of the person you wish to interview on Skype – either their real name or their username will work.  Click on their name from the drop box and hit the green ADD TO CALL button.

6. You will now have two windows on your screen – one for your soundbooth and one for the interviewee. Make the introductions and if this is an “emergency situation” confirm the interviewee is safe.

7. So that you do not interupt the interview, explain that you are going to mute your mic and when the interview is over, disconnect the call.

8. At the bottom of the screen is an icon of a microphone with a slash through it – click on that and the “Microphone muted” message will appear on your screen.

9. You can now listen to the interview and when complete, hit the END CALL button at the bottom of the screen.

This is an inexpensive way to get interview subjects on your airwaves and get current on the ground descriptions of breaking events.

As always, if you have questions or if you are a newsroom who would like me to play operator and make this happen today, just ask – dave@dave.ca.

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Globe & Mail Pulls Political Blog http://www.dave.ca/2010/12/24/globe-mail-pulls-political-blog/ http://www.dave.ca/2010/12/24/globe-mail-pulls-political-blog/#respond Fri, 24 Dec 2010 18:11:30 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=2279 Political writer and former Chief of Staff to Prime Minister Brian Mulroney just had his most recent blog posting at the Globe & Mail removed because “it fell short of The Globe and Mail’s editorial standards with respect to fairness, balance and accuracy.”

It is high time that some basic journalistic tenets are followed in blogs – oh, like say, honesty, accuracy, etc. (hear that Alex Tsakumis?)

Political bloggers seem to believe their opinion, their love of conspiracy theory, their inability to receive (or no longer receive) a patronage appointment or that they are no longer relevant allows them to fire off at will in the “blogosphere”.

Good on the Globe & Mail for making the move to correct this – who will be next?

Here is Mr. Spector’s complete post:

Norman Spector

Globe and Mail Blog
Posted on Friday, December 24, 2010 6:25AM EST

Perusing the Special Holiday Edition of my morning read, I see that Laureen Harper has given her first television interview with the Prime Minister since he took office in 2006. And that we’ll all get to see her full nine minutes under the lights tomorrow night, when Lloyd Robertson and Robert Fife sit down with Mr. Harper for their annual one-hour chat on CTV.

According to The Globe article, Ms. Harper “is not shy at all…she has a wonderful sense of humour and a good political nose – but she has declined offers to sit down with journalists, preferring not to be the story. Rather, she wants the light to shine on the work of her husband and his government. …(Cynics may think that the couple agreed to the interview because an election may not be far away).”

Perhaps. But, I think that something else is at play here.

Three weeks ago, a most extraordinary paragraph appeared in a column published in the Ottawa Citizen. It read as follows:

“In Ottawa, tongues have been wagging for two years about trouble in one political marriage. One of the partners is now said to have left the nest. It hasn’t made the newspapers, at least not yet.”

The column was written by Andrew Cohen—who’s not your ordinary thumb-sucker—and you would expect that it would have elicited a reaction. For one thing, Mr. Cohen is President of The Historica-Dominion Institute (http://www.historica-dominion.ca/en/), “the largest, independent organization dedicated to Canadian history, identity and citizenship.” He’s also an Associate Professor of Journalism at Carleton University—the premier school of its kind in Canada. For another thing, Mr. Cohen has a long and distinguished career as a journalist himself, including stints as a member of the Globe and Mail editorial board, and as foreign editor and foreign affairs columnist for the Financial Post. As to his political preferences, I’d simply observe from having followed his writings over the years that Mr. Cohen once worshipped at the feet of Pierre Trudeau. And that the same cannot be said of his views of Stephen Harper.

In any case, Mr. Cohen’s “tongue-wagging” column was subsequently picked up by only one other PostMedia paper, the Windsor Star—a thinner take-up than usual for his offerings. And then there was silence—at least on the record.

Perhaps the silence was due to the limited circulation of the two papers that carried the column. Or maybe it was because the reference to the troubled marriage came at the end of the column, and many readers would likely have missed it. Or, and this is my guess, the same factors that kept the rumour of a troubled marriage out of the papers for the past two years continued to be at play.

Having been in the business myself, my guess is that there was one group of readers who would not have missed the reference to the troubled political marriage: staff at the PMO—up to and including the Chief of Staff–and the Prime Minister himself. In particular, none of these readers would have missed the kicker in the paragraph: that it was only a matter of time until someone reported the rumour–with names attached.

These days, being as far away from Ottawa as one can get, it was only a few months ago that I caught wind of rumours that the first couple (to borrow an Americanism) were living separately (Mr. Harper at 24 Sussex, Ms. Harper at the Chateau Laurier). And, truth be told, I learned this startling news, dear reader, in the comment boards on this website. Intrigued, I checked out the rumour with two journalists in Ottawa. From both, I got the sense that it was likely true. And that it was not being reported because it was deemed to be a personal matter.

I found this reasoning to be a bit strange—if the PM’s marriage was in trouble, that was something that could affect his performance and lead to bizarre decisions. (Have you heard about the census being abolished?) And given the power of the office, the troubled marriage could impact all Canadians. The Prime Minister himself acknowledged this, according to the Globe report, in one of his answers in the Christmas interview:
Asked about the stresses and strains of the job on their relationship, the Prime Minister jumped in to answer:

“Well, you know, we have a strong relationship,” said Mr. Harper. “I think, to be frank about it, I mean the demands are all on Laureen. Laureen is a very giving person. Laureen allows me to concentrate as fully as I do on the job and then on other things. She doesn’t put a lot of demands on me.”

The Prime Minister said his wife’s support is one of the reasons he has been “successful in this business.”

Having worked in the PMO myself, my guess is that Mr. Harper and his advisers have been struggling for some time over the best way to put paid to the rumours of marital discord.. In the wake of Mr. Cohen’s column, wait-and-hold-your-breath was no longer an attractive option. To deny the rumors formally would be counter-productive, as it would make out of them a huge news story that the media would have no choice but to report. The option decided upon–an interview with two friendly broadcasters—was the best course of action in the circumstances–and Christmas night you’ll get to see the results for yourself. A warning to all you Stephen Harper non-fans out there, however: Unless you have a PVR, you’ll have to stick with the interview to the end to see Ms. Harper scotch the rumours as untrue—albeit indirectly.

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PRESS RELEASE: SHARE Family Service Food Drive “We Did It! Thank you!” http://www.dave.ca/2010/12/20/press-release-share-family-service-we-did-it-thank-you/ http://www.dave.ca/2010/12/20/press-release-share-family-service-we-did-it-thank-you/#respond Mon, 20 Dec 2010 23:52:45 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=2255

Monday December 20, 2010

For Immediate Release

We Did It! Thank you!

Last Monday SHARE issued a plea to the community. We had run out of food to pack 1,600 Christmas Hampers.

By Tuesday the media, including the Coquitlam Now and Tri-city News, CKNW, Global News, Dave.ca Communications Inc., CBC Radio and the Vancouver Sun all responded with news features. All day, people arrived at the Food Bank with donations of food that filled a 5 ton truck. Tuesday afternoon, CKNW organized a remote broadcast Food Drive at the Pinetree Save-on Foods that raised 9,500 lbs of food (UPDATE on December 23rd: 15,000 lbs of food and over $50,000 raised).

“The call for help from the media was instantaneous and the response from the community was overwhelming”, said Heather Scott, Director of Development. “We really want to thank our local and regional media for stepping up so quickly to make sure our community knew about the situation and knew how to help”.

As soon as the food started arriving Wednesday night, SHARE’s volunteers began sorting it so that it could be packed for Christmas. By Thursday night, enough had been sorted that they could begin topping up the Christmas Hampers. The process continued while the Hampers were being distributed on Friday and Saturday. “The Christmas Hampers were fully packed to where we had hoped and planned for them to be”, said Martin Wyant, CEO. “It was amazing and heart-warming to watch our community become mobilized so quickly to help us bring strength and hope to vulnerable children, families and seniors in the Tri-Cities.

In addition to the response with food, SHARE also received a significant number of financial contributions. “We won’t know for sure until January how much money came in as a direct result of this community appeal” says Heather Scott, Director of Development. “We are in the midst of our Christmas campaign when we would normally see donations. Having said that, there’s no question there was a big jump in our donations and I conservatively estimate that we received $50,000 in donations that we wouldn’t otherwise have seen”.

On Thursday and Friday the food from the local schools started arriving and now the Food Bank begin sorting the food over the course of the next month. “We won’t really know until it’s all sorted how long this food will last. Our hope is that it will get us through until the Spring”, said Wyant.

-30-

For more information
Heather Scott, CFRE
Director of Development
604-529-5119 (direct)
email: heather.scott@sharesociety.ca

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Time Magazine Profiles Facebook http://www.dave.ca/2010/12/15/time-magazine-profiles-facebook/ http://www.dave.ca/2010/12/15/time-magazine-profiles-facebook/#respond Wed, 15 Dec 2010 21:50:35 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=2155 Time Magazine named Facebook Founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg as their “Person of the Year” for 2010.  They wrote:

For connecting more than half a billion people and mapping the social relations among them; for creating a new system of exchanging information; and for changing how we all live our lives, Mark Elliot Zuckerberg is TIME’s 2010 Person of the Year.

I agree.

This idea of connecting people is the first step. Using those connections for good will be the legacy that remains to be seen.

Enjoy the article and checkout some of the accompanying videos below.

60 Seconds On Facebook

An Interview with Mark Zuckerberg

Working at Facebook: A Day with the Profile Team

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Love the Editorial Cartoon http://www.dave.ca/2010/11/28/love-the-editorial-cartoon/ http://www.dave.ca/2010/11/28/love-the-editorial-cartoon/#respond Sun, 28 Nov 2010 16:41:41 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=1833 I think the Vancouver Province scored a hit with this political cartoon. Only questions are where is Christy Clark and why does George Abbott get the legendary Vancouver punk band DOA poster? That should TOTALLY be Christy!

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Will Christy Run? http://www.dave.ca/2010/11/26/will-christy-run/ http://www.dave.ca/2010/11/26/will-christy-run/#respond Sat, 27 Nov 2010 01:59:42 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=1840 My good friend Christy Clark announced on her CKNW radio program today that she is considering running for the Leadership of the BC Liberal Party.

I know she would be an awesome Leader of the Party and Premier of the Province of British Columbia.

Should she decide to run I and all the “power” of Dave.ca will be with her.  That said, I hope she considers what is best for her and her family as opposed to many of the “do it Christy!” people that rally her without full consideration of what public life means.

Here is her complete statement with audio from earlier on.

Press > above to play audio

Christy ClarkOn this program, I have the privilege to engage with British Columbians, in incredible ways – you let me into your homes, your cars and your workplaces.

And it’s amazing to think that people, in towns and communities throughout this great province, tune me and the people who work here at this station into your lives.

Now, I don’t often thank you for that, so… thank you. It’s an honour to have you with us here each day.

Our goal here isn’t simply to inform and entertain you – but to open minds, to let other viewpoints in, so that you can decide who to believe.

I’m sure, at times, that you’ve wanted to take the radio and smash it. Or, even better, get on the phone and let me (or one of my guests) really have it.

And that’s the beauty of our democracy – we can disagree and we can express it.

Sometimes, much more than just listening happens here. I am so proud to say that this station functions as a modern speakers corner where anyone, from every corner of BC, can be heard on almost any subject.

I can think of no better example than our pink shirt day campaign against bullying. Together, you and me, we’re taking a stand – we’ve still got a long way to go but we make a difference.

Thousands of futures, alive in little bodies in classrooms all around BC, are a little bit better because of our work together.

Sitting in this chair, with the incredible team of people who work with me – producers and engineers, supported with every step by fantastic management – has been one of the most important experiences of my working life.

I love what we are doing together.

As regular listeners will know, I hold public service in very high esteem. Although I also know it’s fashionable to drag it down.

And on this program, we certainly do our share to hold public officials to account – as you and they would expect. But never has my respect for the burden of their offices wavered.

These are people willing to put themselves out there – for us.

This respect comes honestly and genetically to me. My Mom and Dad, MY biggest heroes, taught me the importance of public service.

Each did their part to make the community better and, in turn, this made our family better.

When my time came to serve, I chose the way I knew, because my father had done it – which was to run for provincial office

Twice, the people of Burnaby, Port Moody and Coquitlam elected me. First in opposition. Then in government as a Minister.

And after I said goodbye after almost a decade in politics, I was fortunate to be approached by Canada’s number one talk station – CKNW – to engage in another form of public service – talk radio.

To me, this is very much public service. And I think our record in this studio, over the better part of 4 years, proves it. We’re covering and connecting the province for the better.

And yes, people have warned me that my opinions on this show will someday all be played back to me. You know what… that’s ok. My job here has been to provoke debate and get people thinking.

If there’s one thing I have learned on the air here, it’s the importance of debate and discussion.

So, if my words are played back to me one day, my response is going to be “thanks for listening”.

Today, outside these windows in downtown Vancouver, there are some big changes going on and big decisions to be made.

The Olympics are in the past. The recession is slowly, but not painlessly, melting away – communities and families, especially outside the Lower Mainland, are really hurting. We have a changing economy positioned smack in the centre of the world’s most competitive and important markets.

And, oh yes, there’s also change in our province’s leadership.

Fuelling the intrigue is a flurry of speculation about who will enter the race to replace Gordon Campbell. Many names have been bandied about.

So far two very capable people, my friend Moira Stillwell and my former colleague in government George Abbott, have entered the race. Other excellent and qualified candidates will be added to that list shortly.

And the question that some have asked, and that many of you out there are wondering, is will I be one of them. The best answer I can give you right now is – I’m going to think very hard about it.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve received calls, emails, tweets and texts of encouragement from friends, listeners and old acquaintances in and outside the BC Liberal Party – from all corners of the province and all walks of life.

I don’t mind saying that I’ve also been told NOT to enter the race – from friends who worry about the risks and the punishment of public life. And from others who just don’t like me – yes, they exist.

I haven’t really had the time to digest all of this. It’s been, quite honestly very tough to do. We have a busy show here and I have a busy life – I just haven’t been able to give it my undivided attention.

That’s going to change after today’s show.

Next week, I have some scheduled time away from the station. It’s a chance for me to collect my thoughts, my friends and my family and give this decision the attention it deserves.

I feel I owe that to the people who’ve encouraged me to step back into the political arena.

I owe it to my Mom and Dad, who live so strongly in my heart.

Mostly, if you don’t mind me saying, I owe it to myself. Public life and media are both noble callings. My job now, over the next week, is to decide how best to serve.

There are a lot of families in BC that want to feel good about the future. To feel proud of the place they live.

I believe that BC’s best days are ahead of us, and I want to help make that happen – just like you do.

The question for me is how best can I contribute to that.

When I’ve made up my mind, I will let you know first. Our audience is like my second family – and family, for me, always comes first.

Thanks for listening. Thanks for talking to me. This is Christy Clark. Bye for now.

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George Abbott Now in BC Liberal Race http://www.dave.ca/2010/11/25/george-abbott-now-in-bc-liberal-race/ http://www.dave.ca/2010/11/25/george-abbott-now-in-bc-liberal-race/#respond Thu, 25 Nov 2010 22:12:04 +0000 http://www.dave.ca/?p=1768 At 11am today George Abbott announced he was resigning as Education Minister to seek out the leadership of the BC Liberal Party.

I had the opportunity to be in meetings with Mr. Abbott when he was Health Minister and I worked for an MLA. George was smart, funny, engaging, caring and a doer. Of all the current Cabinet Minister, George would get my nod to lead the Party.

George’s “catch phrase” of “In the 1990’s” which he uses to point out the troubles the NDP had / created in BC during that time is humourous. He will, however, have to be ready to answer the chide of “In the in new millennium” – where his Government struggled with various issues as well. Glib is amusing but not from our Leader.

George should be complimented for resigning from his Ministerial post. As I wrote on Twitter, remaining as Minister while campaigning for Leader would be “not only incompatible [with Ministry duties] but irresponsible and ethically challenging.” Hopefully other Cabinet based Leadership hopefuls follow his example.

Below is the audio from his announcement this morning (thanks to Sean over at PublicEyeOnline.com and below that are some links to news pieces about Mr. Abbott’s entrance into the race (the links are updated automatically on page reload).

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