Paul Mott2013-05-23T23:21:54-04:00Paul Motthttp://www.huffingtonpost.ca/author/index.php?author=paul-mottCopyright 2008, HuffingtonPost.com, Inc.HuffingtonPost Blogger Feed for Paul MottGood old fashioned elbow grease.Watching the Nightmare Unfold in Newtowntag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2012:/theblog//3.23131182012-12-17T12:25:05-05:002013-02-16T05:12:01-05:00Paul Motthttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-mott/He Said...
Outraged and hurting, in desperate need of answers, a grieving, wounded society is on the attack...again.
While he may have acted alone, the sick young man who rained evil upon Newtown, Connecticut, apparently had "accomplices."
It was 20-year-old Adam Lanza who opened fire at Sandy Hook Elementary, snuffing out the lives of 20 small children and six adults, before taking his own life. But, he, in the minds of many, striking out on Twitter and Facebook, isn't solely responsible. There are others to blame, from God to the NRA, to society's ignorance of mental illness. It's now obvious the boy was disturbed, but the signs were missed, misread or ignored.
And where was this loving God? Was he too busy that fateful Friday to attend Sandy Hook? How, in his name, could he possibly allow this!?
Then, there's the "gun lovers," those who believe in the right to bear arms, and who oppose legislation that would severely cripple that right...those who are mocked for stating, "guns don't kill people, people kill people."
But, finger pointing aside, the fact is, the deadliest "weapon" in Newtown, was Adam Lanza. Had there not been the convenience of mom's guns, would he have sought them elsewhere, or employed other means to wreak havoc?
We'll never know.
Like most, I'm not opposed to gun control, but even the strictest laws would be no guarantee, that we'd never see a repeat of the nightmare that's Newtown.
After so many tragic incidents, (Ecole Polytechnique, Columbine, Virginia Tech, etc., etc., etc.) if the answer to the question, "how do we protect our schools?" isn't obvious by now, I fear, it may never be. Unfortunately, the ONLY answer is, turning our schools into armed fortresses. It may be a dear price to pay in a free and open society, but a necessary one.
Had young Mr. Lanza faced pistol packin' guards at the school's front door...odds are pretty good, that 20 little ones would get to grow up. But, there are those who take comfort, in believing these small souls are in a much better place. I truly envy you, and sincerely hope you're right.
She Says...
I am thankful that our hydro went out last Friday evening. I just couldn't take any more and knew that I wouldn't turn it off. Mesmerized and sickened by what I was watching from Newtown, Connecticut I was feeling so sorry for the families joined in tragedy. It was too much to bear to watch, how will they cope?
One little girl talked about her friends who had stomach aches after the days horror. Tell me why members of the media were talking to children six and seven years old after so many of their classmates had just been gunned down in cold blood. I don't care if this child's mother was standing right behind her. They were all in shock and weren't thinking clearly. Believe it or not, they do teach ethics in journalism school.
Just now we are getting to know the people behind the numbers. Twenty-six dead, but who are they? The stories of immense courage are coming out, teachers running toward the sound of gunshots, some shielding children with their bodies.
We hear so much about the awful people in this world. Every day the news is filled with the ones you don't want as your neighbours. In the midst of this we are hearing about the lives of wonderful people who made a mark on these precious little children and who truly loved them.
Who could do this? Why? A picture is emerging of someone with mental health issues and far too easy access to weapons. There were signs. It seems in retrospect there always are.
American society, as wonderful as it is, has some fatal flaws. Many are saying it's not the time to have a debate about guns. It's precisely the time to have that discussion. If not, these children and their incredible teachers will just be the latest in a growing list of tragedies.
I don't know if anything can make this worse, but that this happened at a time of year that fills that age of innocence with such excitement and wonder just adds another level of heartbreak.
The Motts can be heard weekdays from 11 until noon at themotts.ca, Erin Radio 88.1FM, and Stouffville Radio 102.7FM. "Motts Weekend" is heard on radio stations CKTB, CKNX, CHOK & CJBQ.]]>Stop Treating Two Prank-Calling DJs Like Killerstag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2012:/theblog//3.22677682012-12-10T12:02:52-05:002013-02-09T05:12:01-05:00Paul Motthttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-mott/Aussie DJs, who they believe are responsible for the death of a London hospital worker... time to take a pill, people!
When MC and Mel, of Sydney's 2Day FM, placed a crank call to London's King Edward VII Hospital, there's no way on earth they could have foreseen, that it might play a part in a tragic event like this.
Pretending to be the Queen and Prince Charles, the two inquired about the condition of the Duchess of Cambridge, who was battling a severe case of morning sickness. Apparently fooled by the pair, nurse/receptionist, Jacintha Saldanha, put the call through to the nurse's station on Kate's ward.
What followed was a conversation, more silly than funny, with a still unnamed nurse, updating "The Royals" on Kate's condition... information that had already been made public.
Subsequently, a mocking world pointed and laughed, incredulous, that anyone was dumb enough to fall for the gag... the twitterverse was a-giggle, and comedians and talk show hosts feasted on the "stupidity."
Three days later, the laughing stopped.
Early Friday morning, Jacintha's body was found in her home near the hospital. It appeared the 47-year-old mother of two teens had taken her own life. Now, the world has a new target -- those two heartless DJs at 2Day FM!
The social media surfers are crying out for justice -- they must be punished, persecuted and prosecuted! Australia's communication authority has launched an investigation, and the nation's Prime Minister has expressed her regrets.
Meanwhile, a devastated MC and Mel have been be benched, their careers on hold.
But what are these two actually guilty of? Crank calls on radio have been around for at least 50 years, maybe, since Bell met Marconi!
And was it really this gag that led to Saldanha's apparent suicide? Did she tell someone or leave a note? Did she suffer emotional problems and this nudged her over? Could the timing of her death be just a coincidence?
I have no idea, but all I've heard to this point is a lot of speculation and assumptions.She killed herself, ashamed and embarrassed over being fooled.
Few of us escape life without being pranked at some point, but, fortunately, most of us have the ability to laugh at ourselves. It's not only an admirable quality, but a necessary one.
Maybe Jacintha could take a joke, but maybe, for her, this one was just too big to handle. Again, who really knows for sure? What I do know is, these two young DJs don't deserve the pummelling they're taking.
If you're torn up by this tragic event, just imagine how they feel, standing accused of pushing a woman to take her own life!
Hang in there, MC and Mel...
The Motts can be heard weekdays from 11 until noon at themotts.ca with podcasts available anytime. "Motts Weekend" is heard on 610 CKTB, CKNX in Wingham, CHOK in Sarnia and CJBQ in Belleville.
]]>The Real Victims of Teachers vs. Dalton McGuinty? The Studentstag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2012:/theblog//3.19137992012-09-25T16:07:45-04:002012-11-25T05:12:01-05:00Paul Motthttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-mott/He Said...
It's not often I agree with the Premier of this province, but this time I'm onside. As most are aware, the Liberal chief has slapped our educators with a two year, "no strike/wage freeze," and the teachers are screaming, claiming he's pumped a slug into the collective bargaining process.
McGuinty's argument is, sorry about that, but times are tough, the coffers are bare, we're in hock up to our ears, so a Preem's gotta do what a Preem's gotta do!
But the question is: is Dastardly Dalton flaunting the law, stomping on the teacher's constitutional rights? They believe he is, and have taken their fight to the courts. (I can't wait to see the bill for that battle!)
The teachers, of course, fairly or unfairly, have been tagged as "greedy," their critics trumpeting, they have no cause to whine. They sound off, that in this economy, teachers are far better off than most, pointing to their handsome holiday breaks, excellent benefits and retirement packages.
The teachers, meanwhile, fearing no further loss of favour, have backed up their beef with a pointless, mean spirited tactic -- a complete withdrawal, or intermittent involvement in extracurricular activities. While this childish stunt may annoy their political foes and piss off the parents, the only ones hurt by it, are the kids!
I would suggest, that the big thinker who came up with this bit of strategy, isn't smart enough to be involved in education. How was this supposed to play out? Were distraught students expected to cry to mom and dad, who in turn, would tear the big, nasty Premier a new one, forcing him to back down?
It was a dumb move, and now the teachers are the bad guys in everyone's eyes. The Premier was right when he pointed out to the teachers (rather sad that he had to) that their beef was with him, not the students, and the place to deal with him was at the polls.
If our teachers aren't mature enough to see their hissy fit as silly and grossly unfair, maybe their next move should be holding their breath.
She Said...
The kids are just back to school and already much of what they enjoy in extra-curricular activities is being whittled away. Once again they are pawns to be used in a political game. Some teachers decided not to attend the curriculum night used to introduce parents to the education line up for the year. It's a night where they hope to engage the parents and inspire the kids. What does a no-show say about that?
We often hear teachers say that there is little respect given to them in the classroom. That has to be tough and we always tried to instill in our children a respect for their teachers. We expected a certain standard of behaviour and if they didn't meet it, which happened on occasion, we knew we would hear from the school which was fine with us. We would back them up. It will be difficult to develop a rapport with the students and parents when you withdraw an important part of their school life.
What do you remember from your school days? I'd venture to say that many of the memories come not from what happened in class but from those extra-curricular activities, the life lessons learned and the great teachers who supported you in that quest.
Teachers make a very good living, as they should. Since McGuinty came to office, average salaries are up by 34 per cent, teachers are making on average $83,500, and they retire with a very handsome pension -- far better than those in the private sector. To ask them to accept a wage freeze, a ban on strikes and to give up sick day pay outs at retirement isn't outrageous. To be facing the prospect of a sanitized school experience, coming as this does on the heels of a long hot summer off, is!
The Motts can be heard weekdays from 11 until noon at themotts.ca, on Caledon Radio 102.7FM, Bolton Radio 105.5FM, Erin Radio 88.1FM, and Stouffville Radio 102.7FM. "Motts Weekend" is heard on 610 CKTB in St. Catharines and CKNX in Wingham.]]>Rob Ford Fumbles in Match With the Star!tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2011:/theblog//3.11282262011-12-06T12:49:31-05:002012-02-05T05:12:01-05:00Paul Motthttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-mott/Toronto "leaning left" Star.
The feuding began when the paper ran a front page story about Ford's run in with one of the young high school footballers he coaches. It claimed there were heated words between the two, and that the then- mayoral candidate actually put hands on the player.
Ford denied it and the player eventually backed him, but the Star has stuck to its story citing two eyewitnesses.
Now according to the Star, not only has Mr. Ford snubbed the paper since, which is his prerogative, but after taking office he's put the kibosh on all communiqués from the mayor's desk. The paper sometimes relies on the co-operation of other media to pass on press releases, the Globe and Mail said.
Obviously, if this is true, and I have no reason to doubt the Star, the mayor is out of line. Don't want to talk to the paper, fine. Don't want to inform its readers, not fine... NOT SMART!
Star lovers, and their numbers are many, have every right to expect that news out of Toronto City Hall, that may well affect their lives, will be shared with their favourite paper. After all, they too are the mayor's constituents.
Friday morning, on AM640's John Oakley show, the mayor went so far as to suggest a boycott of the Star! "I have no respect for the Toronto Star whatsoever. If people want to read a paper, pick up the Globe, Post or Sun. That's what I encourage people to do," he said.
The mayor's sibling, Councillor Doug "he ain't heavy, he's my bro" Ford, says Rob will never speak to the Star again, unless it issues a front page apology for its article on the football confrontation. Of course the odds of that happening are slim to nil. A safer bet would be Michele "duh" Bachmann winning the White House!
But honestly, who really gives a rats ass?! The IMPORTANT issue is the withholding of City Hall press releases!
Other than his brother, those close to the mayor, including allies on council, would like to see an end to the standoff, because they are well aware of the potential political damage. This power play (as many will see it) and his over-the-top reaction to an "ambush" by CBC's comedy troupe 22 Minutes are not big point-getters for Ford Nation.
It's now becoming obvious to the mayor's friends and backers that Rob is in need of an attitude adjustment, something his opponents have said for years.
So, if you're buying for His Honour this holiday season, forget the ties... think "image consultant."
He may now doubt my sincerity (and no longer take my calls), but I do wish Rob and his entire clan a very Merry Christmas!
Paul and Carol Mott can be heard discussing the issues weekdays from 11 a.m. until noon streamed through their website themotts.ca.
]]>Did the French Magazine Get What it Deserved?tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2011:/theblog//3.10771372011-11-07T14:18:47-05:002012-01-07T05:12:01-05:00Paul Motthttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-mott/
The front page of this week's edition of the French satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo, featured a cartoon of the Prophet Muhammad, accompanied by a word bubble that read, "100 lashes if you don't die of laughter." It sported the headline "Charia Hebdo", in reference to an article on Shariah law that the paper joked was guest edited by the prophet himself
The edition hit the streets Tuesday. Wednesday, two Molotov cocktails lit the paper up... Fortunately, no one was injured.
Like most of us, the good people at Charlie are well aware of the fact that any depiction of the Prophet Muhammad is considered blasphemy by many in the Muslim world -- not just militant wackos, but moderates as well. And recent history shows that those who violate this belief do run the risk of being 'bullseyed' by Muslim extremists.
Until it finds new quarters or rebuilds, Charlie has taken up residence with the French daily Liberation, which by the way, has reprinted the offending cartoon, along with the headline "After their office blaze, this team defends the 'freedom to poke fun.'"
In a free society, few will argue that Charlie, or anyone else for that matter, doesn't have the right to poke fun and freedom of expression should be defended. But having the RIGHT to do something doesn't always make it right. And it's certainly no shield against retaliation. Right, Charlie?
While this 'in your face,' 'ain't we brave' cartoon was meant to rile up the militant whack-jobs, it also, needlessly, offended a great many law abiding, peaceful Muslims.
But obviously, Charlie doesn't care. From its temporary home, it plans to pump out 175,000 copies of the offensive article, which I'm sure many will see, as a courageous, defiant move in defence of freedom of expression!
Sorry, Charlie. Ain't buyin' it. You wanted attention... you got it!
For the mentally stable, maligning Muhammad is no justification for violence. However, these extremist cats are anything but. Odds are good they'll strike again.
Maybe the guys at Charlie should pray to THEIR gods... so that they're still around to write about it.
]]>Inquiry Into Gaddafi's Death a Waste of Timetag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2011:/theblog//3.10270892011-10-25T09:11:26-04:002011-12-25T05:12:01-05:00Paul Motthttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-mott/
According to eye witnesses, he begged for his life. But his pleas for mercy, like those of his countless victims, fell on deaf ears... and justice was quick.
Some feel it was too quick, that the man was denied due process. Yes, he was a monster, obviously guilty of crimes against humanity, and yes, likely would have met his end at the hands of an executioner. But, like all men, they argue, he deserved his day in court. They believe that the Libyan rebels, in denying Gaddafi this fundamental right, are guilty of a misstep on the road to democracy... not a good start.
They're right, of course. Denying someone, anyone, a fair trial, the right to face their accusers, is not something we do in a free and democratic society. There's little doubt in the minds of most, based on the video evidence, that Gaddafi was executed... a war crime under international law.
If the culprit were identified, would he face prosecution? And if so, where would the trial take place?
It's highly unlikely the Libyans would turn him over to an International court, and the outcome of a trial in Libya would be easily predictable... who would want to punish the man who pulled the trigger on the beast, Gaddafi!
While it may not sit well with many, maybe on this one we park our principles and turn a blind eye... considering the pain and suffering Gaddafi inflicted.
You might not like the way he went out, but I'm sure you'll agree that the world's a much better place without him.
Paul and Carol Mott can be heard discussing the issues weekdays from 11 a.m. until noon streamed through their website. Catch a podcast 24/7! Download the Motts App for your Blackberry and listen anytime!]]>Dopey War on Drugstag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2011:/theblog//3.10095462011-10-14T15:13:48-04:002011-12-14T05:12:02-05:00Paul Motthttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-mott/story on HuffPost Canada the other day, I had to laugh. But then again I can afford to; I'm a Canadian, not subject to some of the stupid drug laws my American cousins have to suffer.
Laws, like this one, that got a thumbs-up last week from the House Judiciary Committee.
The approved bill, sponsored by Committee Chair, Lamar Smith (R-Texas), would make it illegal for any U.S. citizen, to discuss or plan using an illicit drug on foreign soil, while still in the United Sates... even, if in the country mentioned, drug use is legal!
That, according to Lamar and his cronies, would be a violation of the Controlled Substances Act, allowing federal prosecutors to slap the scofflaws with conspiracy charges!
I'm not kidding! You can't make this stuff up!
Bill Piper, a spokesman for the Drug Policy Alliance, a group that's fighting to reform U.S. drug laws, said:
"Under this bill, if a young couple plans a wedding in Amsterdam, and as part of the wedding, they plan to buy the bridal party some marijuana, they would be subject to prosecution. The strange thing is that the purchase of and smoking the marijuana while you're there wouldn't be illegal. But the law would make planning the wedding from the U.S. a federal crime."
I don't buy for one second that the big minds on the committee actually believe this bit of nonsense will help turn the war on drugs, an effort that was doomed to failure from the get-go.
People want what people want, and no number of laws, no matter how strictly enforced, will stop them from getting it. Prohibition, as we know, was a HUGE success.
Every year in the States, billions of dollars are spent and many are arrested in the long lost battle with drugs. Some are even killed, and scores of young lives are destroyed by needless incarceration.
Might a change in strategy be in order, on BOTH sides of the boarder? Like maybe, decriminalization, or the legalization, control and taxation of drugs?
Oops, kind of went too far there, didn't I?
Sorry about that... my apologies to the cartels.
Paul and Carol Mott can be heard discussing the issues weekdays from 11 until noon streamed through their website themotts.ca.
]]>Mr. Obama, Put Up That Wall!tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2011:/theblog//3.9894542011-10-03T16:51:49-04:002011-12-03T05:12:02-05:00Paul Motthttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-mott/
So little faith, in fact, they're now considering throwing up some fencing on the 49th to stop the hoards of terrorists that flow in daily from the Great White North.
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency are looking at a number of ways to beef up security and "The Fence" is just one of the options. Apparently, public input is more than welcome.
Many Canucks, I'm sure, would take offence to a fence, but not I. What the Yanks do on their side of the border is their business. For all I care, they can build a wall coast to coast as long as their taxpayers are footin' the bill... not one penny from OUR coffers.
What would this fence look like? There's little detail in that regard, but we're told it would blend in with the environment, "complement the natural landscape." Nice.
But would the "Great Wall of America" be effective? While it might make Americans feel more secure, would it actually foil a dedicated terrorist bent on destruction? Obviously, the answer is, no.
Despite what many American still believe, the 9/11 al Qaeda gang flew into the States from outside North America... they DID NOT cross from Canada. In July 2004, the report from the 9/11 Commission was clear on this fact, yet over the years a number of prominent U.S. officials continued to blame Canada.
Among the finger pointers were U.S. Senator, John McCain, Homeland Security Secretary, Janet Napolitano and U.S. Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton! They were either frightenly unaware, or playing politics... reassuring their people they'd found the "leak."
But anyway, if the U.S. truly believes, like Frost's stubborn neighbour, that "good fences make for good neighbours," then I say, go for it!
Mr. Obama... put up that wall!
Paul and Carol Mott can be heard discussing the issues weekdays from 11 until noon streamed through their website www.themotts.ca. Download the Motts App for your Blackberry & listen anytime!
]]>So Long Summer!tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2011:/theblog//3.9668452011-09-17T09:18:27-04:002011-11-17T05:12:02-05:00Paul Motthttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-mott/He says...
I don't know about you, but it seems that the last time I checked my watch it was half-past May, and I was still grumbling about the long, cold winter.
We had just had a conversation with Environment Canada's Dave Phillips who was promising months of glorious days ahead!
Wha' happen!?
Here it is September already, and my summer 'bucket' list has hardly been touched!
I accept the fact that as we get older we tend to gear down both physically and mentally, and that the passage of time appears to accelerate, but this is ridiculous! It seems like Father Time has put the pedal to the metal, and I'm shuffling along at warp speed!
Yikes! Premier Dad, get me a helmet!
While I still get around unassisted ( I'd throw in the abbreviation 'LOL' here, but Carol hates it so I won't), have all my own teeth, a full head hair and pretty good recall, that nomination to the Ole' Farts Club isn't too many years off.
There was a time when it seemed like summers were never-ending, an unlimited number of warm, sunny days that would roll on forever, that dreaded return to school far beyond the horizon. They passed slowly, every one seeming like a week... and the weeks like months.
Sadly, this summer is all but gone. The kids are back in class complaining about the homework load and we bid welcome to autumn on Sept. 23.
Now, if I pick up the pace, I could still achieve what I wanted to this summer. Like fix those Dutch doors in one of the barns, re-do some window frames, slap some paint on this and that... and maybe hold the yard sale I was planning!
But, hey, no rush, it'll all keep till NEXT summer... which I know at the time will seem like a WEEK from now!
Merry Christmas!
She says...
Your right! I can't believe our summer is almost over but I refuse to acknowledge that the older you get the faster it goes.
Time flies because we are so busy that one day runs into the next and then before you know it a months' gone by and then two and three. On a few things I would like to be granted a do-over, just so that I would savour the moment rather than barrelling on to the next chapter.
I remember people saying to me when our children were young that you should enjoy every moment because they grow up so fast. That's so true but it's not until they are older that you really appreciate those words. Like the song says, "Slow down, you move too fast!"
Every year at this time I have a reality check in the form of The Children's Wish Celebration at the Canadian Show Jumping Tournament (on from Sept. 21-25 at the Caledon Equestrian Park, Palgrave, Ontario). I love this event and have had the pleasure of being the MC for a number of years now. It's so uplifting and it gets your priorities back in place if you've been swallowed up by the day to day routine.
We meet families who have had their lives turned upside down by their child's diagnosis of a life threatening illness. For them the priority has been the health and welfare of this most precious gift, but these children have their own hopes and dreams and topping the list is a horse or pony!
The partnership between the equestrian community through the Canadian Show Jumping Tournament and the Children's Wish Foundation will realize another dream this year. It's not to be missed!
To see these children looking at one of Canada's Olympic greats, Ian Millar also known as Captain Canada as he rides into the ring with them is priceless. It's their dream come true!
These children live their lives in the moment. They have to. We can all learn from them.
We'd love to have you join us for this celebration and you can enter the contest to be at our table. Details at themotts.ca.
Paul and Carol Mott can be heard discussing the issues weekdays from 11 until noon streamed through their website themotts.ca.
]]>Last Word on Jack Laytontag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2011:/theblog//3.9406392011-08-29T14:51:51-04:002011-10-29T05:12:02-04:00Paul Motthttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-mott/He Says,
On a beautiful, sun-drenched, Saturday afternoon a nation bid farewell to NDP boss, John Gilbert "Jack" Layton... the Leader of her Majesty's Official Opposition laid to rest with all the pomp and pageantry that a state funeral offers.
While there were those who felt that Jack wasn't deserving of such a send off, an honour normally reserved for prime ministers, cabinet ministers and governors general, the vast majority of Canadians thought otherwise. According to an Angus-Reid poll, released just prior to the event, a full 81 per cent of us supported the idea!
In waving the qualifier for Jack, it was obvious the prime minister had made the right call. He saw a country in shock, mourning the loss of a popular politician... a man who was liked, and highly respected.
Even though our politics didn't jive, Jack, well to the left, and me, to the far right on many issues, I'm one of the great many who did like the man. As an open-line host, half of the talk team, "The Motts," I had the pleasure of dealing with Jack over the years... and locking horns from time to time.
Jack Layton had strong beliefs, fought hard for them and was always available to do battle. The man made the phones ring... he was great radio!
I don't believe Jack feared taking anyone on, with maybe the possible exception of his wife, Olivia.
A number of years back, we were broadcasting from a cultural event in downtown Toronto and Jack was booked to join us for a few comments. Shortly after rolling up on his beloved bicycle, he took me aside and asked, "Paul, could I bum a cigarette?"
Noting my surprise at the discovery Jack Layton smoked, he quickly explained that it wasn't a regular habit, but something he did enjoy every now and again. He added, even more quickly, that he'd appreciate it if I didn't mention it on the air... that if Olivia found out, he could be in for some grief!
I gave him my word that I would treat it as an "off the record" smoke, adding that as a married man myself, I fully understood not wanting to rile "she, who must be obeyed."
I'm not a big believer in this whole "afterlife" thing, but this, I'm sure of. If Jack is someplace where a voice can be heard, his will be.
He'll make the phones ring!
Bon voyage, Jack.
She Says...
A lot has been said about the kind of grief Canadians have been showing. Is it contrived? Why such public spectacles? Is it a true outpouring of emotion? For some it seemed clear they wanted their 15 minutes of fame and would grieve publicly and put on a performance for the cameras.
But most seemed deeply touched by a man they had never met, who most in this country had never voted for, and, had he achieved the heights of prime minister of the country, many would have been worried. They want to be close to celebrity such as Jack Layton and touch the aura that surrounds him.
My heart broke for his wife, Olivia Chow who stood with others and yet seemed so alone. She took comfort from the people who made the trek to pay their respects as did his children. It seems to me that Olivia has been the epitome of stoicism and dignity, comforting others.
Jacks' was a voice that we all needed to hear, even for those who fought so hard against him. Eventually he tried to bring his party closer to the centre realizing the far left would never appeal to the majority.
Watching what transpired through the week and culminating in what was a very motivating, touching send off, I couldn't help but think that if that were for almost any other politician people would be claiming it was crass politicism. But unless you were over the top in your admiration you were attacked.
As I think more about some of the reaction we've seen, it seems a little sad. So much plays out on the public stage now. Years ago grief was a more private thing with family and friends supporting each other. Today this is how many people connect, at public events, or on Facebook or Twitter.
But to say you can't go on. That all hope has been lost. Really! That was one of the headlines. Give your head a shake! Although Stephen Lewis may have set him up for sainthood with his eulogy, he was a man, a good one, a passionate one, with a certain vision for the country, not a God.
]]>British PM Punishes Punkstag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2011:/theblog//3.9334072011-08-23T11:54:40-04:002011-10-24T05:12:01-04:00Paul Motthttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-mott/
Following the riots that tore through the heart of Her Majesty's realm, Cameron came out swingin'. He told the world that England wouldn't tolerate this kind of behaviour and that those responsible would be hit hard... things were going to change!
The PM strongly condemned the "sickening scenes of people looting, vandalizing, thieving, robbing"... he promised the rioting punks "You will feel the full force of the law. And if you are old enough to commit these crimes, you are old enough to face the punishment."
I must admit, that initially, I doubted the man's sincerity. I thought him to be just another politician blowing smoke up keisters, telling the disgruntled peons what he knew they wanted to hear. I was never more happy to be proven wrong.
The constabulary got the message, as did the powdered wigs, the prosecutors and judges. Within a matter of days, thousands were arrested, hundreds charged, a number convicted and sentences handed out. Britain's courts were humming 24/7. And the critics were howling!
Things were moving too fast, they cried and the punishment in some cases far exceeded the crime. Like the two young men who were slapped with a four-year sentence, for promoting rioting on their Facebook pages. (Lovely, Govna!)
They pointed fingers at a failed society, coming up with excuses and explanations as to why the riots happened. In the opinion of some it was simply a case of an oppressed, disenfranchised people, rising up like their Arab brothers in the Middle East.
I'm no expert in these matters, but to that I say... "BOLLOCKS!"
In my humble opinion, not one of these thugs has a valid excuse for what they did. They're spoiled members of a catered-to generation that is seldom held accountable for their actions.
Five people are dead and numerous homes, shops and vehicles were destroyed... the damage exceeding £200 million!
ALL involved in the riots have to share the blame and suffer the consequences. I'm sure for many, paying a price comes as one hell of a shock!
Again, to Prime Minister Cameron, a tip of the bowler... Well done, sir!
Now, if we could only get you this side of the pond to deal with the Vancouver riot, I'm sure things would move along a little quicker.
It happened over two months ago, and while not one rioter has even been charged yet, the Toronto Star reports, we have been assured that justice will be done... eventually... at some point... down the road... Blah, blah, blah.
Only in Canada, you say? Pity!
]]>Once a Separatist, Always a Separatist?tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2011:/theblog//3.9228392011-08-10T13:17:31-04:002011-10-10T05:12:02-04:00Paul Motthttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-mott/
Therefore, even as a long time supporter of Team Tory, I'm reluctant to take pleasure in the controversy now surrounding her Majesty's Official Opposition.
As if Jack doesn't have enough on his mind battling cancer, he's likely now sweating his choice of interim leader, newbie Quebec MP, Nycole Turmel.
While Ms. Turmel insists that she's not now and never has been a separatist, many Canadians aren't buying it considering the evidence.
She was, until just prior to the last federal election, a card-carrying member of the Bloc Québécois. She claims she doesn't support the party's goal of separation, but joined anyway to "support a friend."
Really!? You join a party you oppose because a buddy is a member? Who does that!?
And what about her link with Québec Solidaire, a provincial separatist party? Still a member, she now says she'll end the relationship that began in 2007.
Then there's the fact, that when she was president of the Public Service Alliance of Canada she backed the union's endorsement of four Bloc candidates in the 2006 federal election!
More friends?
Nycole Turmel may well be a patriotic Canadian strongly opposed to Quebec separation. But at this point it doesn't matter... what matters now is the optics. The doubt is out there, and her opponents will play it for all it's worth. Even party-hopper Bob Rae is tsk tsking!
If Ms. Turmel is really true blue to the Orange, she'll do the party a favour and step aside as interim leader, sparing it the embarrassment of eventually pulling the plug and risking losing hard-won support in the province of Quebec.
Jack Layton's goal is to be back in time for the resumption of Parliament... and your God willing, he will be.
But if he isn't, and Turmel is at the helm, the good ship NDP is in for one hell of a stormy session.
As for the revelation that now Transport Minister Denis Lebel was also, once-upon-a-time, a card-totin' member of the Bloc, his story differs from that of Turmel's.
Unlike the interim-leader of the NDP, he walked away from the separatist gang more than a decade ago, not months ago. And he has been a Tory Member of Parliament since 2007! And, of course, the biggest difference is... he's not the leader of the party.
A politician switching his or her political allegiance can be tough, but getting others to believe it, even tougher.
]]>Why Rob Ford's Flip Off Is a Big Political Fumbletag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2011:/theblog//3.9128452011-07-29T11:15:48-04:002011-09-28T05:12:01-04:00Paul Motthttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-mott/
But unlike many of his admirers, I don't believe he can do no wrong... no one is perfect, we all mess up at times.
Earlier this week, Rob Ford made a mistake and has compounded the problem by not addressing it adequately.
A citizen has alleged that His Worship flipped her off when she admonished him for yakking on his cell phone while driving. While the mayor fessed up to the illegal phone use, he claimed "the bird" was a "misunderstanding."
So, he did it, but didn't mean it? The offended taxpayer wasn't his target, just collateral damage? Just how was it a "misunderstanding"?
Sorry Mr. Mayor, what we have here is a failure to communicate... a big fumble!
Obviously, giving the woman the oiseaux was dumb, but not apologizing was even dumber; a display of poor manners, not to mention bad politics, as "fingergate" remains an unresolved issue. It seems the importance of a mea culpa not only escaped the mayor but also his wise men at court.
As for the driving while distracted offence, cutting a cheque to a charity, equal to the sum of the fine, may have scored Rob a few points... another ball dropped.
But Rob isn't the only Ford whose game's a bit off... brother, Councillor Doug, is also bootin' it.
In response to a cry from literary icon Margaret Atwood to spare the city's libraries from budget cuts, Dougie took a sarcastic shot.... " I don't even know her. If she walked by me, I wouldn't have a clue who she is." Ouch!
That, of course, offended Atwood fans, but it was this comment that ticked-off most... "She's not down here, (city hall) she's not dealing with the problem. Tell her to go run in the next election and get democratically elected. And we'd be more than happy to sit down and listen to Margaret Atwood."
Yikes!
In Doug Ford's democracy, only elected officials have a voice? I doubt he believes that, but it sounds like that's what he said.
There are times in life when we'd love to be granted a "do-over"... an opportunity to un-do a did.
I'd like to believe, for the Ford boys, this is one of those times.
]]>Somalia's Image Deficit: Helping or Hurting Aid?tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2011:/theblog//3.9082122011-07-25T11:06:25-04:002011-09-24T05:12:01-04:00Paul Motthttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-mott/He says...
In case you haven't noticed, the war-torn state of Somalia has a PR problem... not one of those warm and fuzzy nations, thought fondly of by most.
With a weak, corrupt, UN-backed central government, large areas controlled by pro-al Qaeda Islamist rebels, and ports, home to pirates who terrorize innocents on the high seas, many in the civilized world find it a hard place to warm up too.
And let's not forget those 'Black Hawk Down' images from October '93, the tragic result of a UN effort to restore order to the stricken land, and allow the world to feed its starving people. Those disturbing pictures on the eleven o'clock news of the naked bodies of downed U.S. chopper pilots, dragged through the streets of Mogadishu... assaulted by mobs and eventually set ablaze.
But, no matter, here we go again.
Famine has returned to the Horn of Africa and Somalis are starving, tens of thousands dropping like flies and, as expected, the Western nations are kicking in. It's what we do, regardless of politics or how despicable those in need may be. We're a caring, compassionate lot, blessed with an obligation to alleviate suffering... despite how despised we may be by those with their hands out.
For our part, we in the Great White North are coughing up $50 million relief dollars, in addition to Ottawa matching donations from individual Canucks. This, by the way, (puff up that chest) makes Canada the largest per-capita donor to the relief effort!
Wow! That should score us some big points on the world stage... a humungous hug from the UN!
But let's not forget our new BFF's in communist China and those good folk in the Arab and Islamic states. I'm sure like always, we can count on them to do their part... look for some BIG coin!
Sarcasm aside, we all realize, of course, that throwing millions at the Somalias of this world is like slapping a band-aid on a cancer patient. The only real hope is radical surgery... a costly, painful operation that at least for now, no-one is willing to perform.
But, hey! Cut that cheque. As the saying goes... "If it feels good, do it!"
She Says...
There are pictures that galvanized the world. We couldn't look at them without being moved and feeling a little guilty that just by the chance of birth we happened to be here in a land of plenty. Once again the pictures of little children starving in Somalia break your heart. But this time there are other pictures that come to mind too.
Warlords, pirates, radical Islamists and the dead American soldier dragged through the streets with ordinary Somali's cheering and kicking him then torching his body.
We spoke with Nick Moyer co-ordinator of the Humanitarian Coalition an umbrella group of aid organizations...Care, Oxfam, Plan, and Save the Children. They are pleading with us again to help Somalia.
Our guest did admit that Somalia has "an image deficit". I guess that means it's hard to put together a sympathetic story for the region. Many will remember when the world was there to help and just how badly it turned out. You can hear our discussion on our podcast for July 21.
A child is dying from starvation every six minutes in drought-hit Somalia according to aid workers. In 10 years it wouldn't surprise me if they are asking the world to respond again. Here at home we have aboriginals fleeing their homes because of wildfires. They left with the clothes on their backs. They too need help!
We've been told that summertime pursuits like our fascination with Will and Kate (who raise millions for charity), or fretting over the end of Harry Potter for that matter is something to feel ashamed of when there are people starving.
Of course the famine is more important but insulting our more mundane interests is hardly the way to encourage philanthropy.
Some of the harsh realities of life in Somalia can turn you into a cynic but to look into the eyes of those poor little children makes you just want to get them out of there. Give them a life, some opportunity. That would be a picture to cherish.
The debate continues. Is Canada giving enough? Take part in our poll at www.themotts.ca/
Paul and Carol Mott can be heard discussing the issues weekdays from 11 until noon streamed through their website. Download the Motts App for your Blackberry & listen anytime!
Under section 174 of the Criminal Code of Canada, going bare butt in public or exposing one's self to public view while traipsing about naked on private property, is a criminal offence. I'm paraphrasing of course, but you get the idea... if we can see your 'stuff' you're committing a crime.
While most would agree this is a good law, there are those who oppose it and claim it's unconstitutional!
One such person is Brian Coldin of Bracebridge, Ontario.
A self-described nudist, Mr. Coldin is fighting charges after his eye-popping appearance at two drive-thrus... the window workers at a Tim Horton's and A&W, treated to the sight of Coldin in his birthday suit!
Nader Hasan, one of Coldin's lawyers, told the court:
"The purpose of the criminal law is to protect us from harm, not to protect the sensibilities of the most prudish among us. These laws violate freedom of expression and they are overboard such as to punish all kinds of conduct that is completely harmless and shouldn't be criminal."
I don't know about you, and I'm no prude, but the sight of some dude out for his evening constitutional, 'pendulum' a-sway for all to behold, is something I can live without!
Now, there are those who will tell you that the human body, no matter what shape it's in, is a beautiful thing... Horse pucky!
It could be said, that some human bodies are beautiful things, but sadly, the reality is, most are not! In fact, upon viewing a few of the less fortunate, you might beseech your maker to strike you blind! A glimpse of Brad Pitt in the buff may put a smile on a woman's face, but encountering someone like me in the raw could be terribly traumatic!
Should Mr. Coldin win his case and our nudity laws are struck down, I, for one, for your sake, will continue to cover up. It's not that I'm terribly bashful -- just considerate.
Mr. Coldin returns to court on Sept. 28 when a date will be set for judgement.
She Says...
We are on the same page on this one. I think it's a waste of the court's time and our money hearing this case. We spoke with Coldin's lawyer Nader Hassan on our show July 6. ( Hear the podcast at www.themotts.ca/listen.php) A wonderful guest with a great sense of humour, Hassan did feel there was a serious issue of freedom of expression at play here. Far be it from me to curb that, but I would say there is a time and place to express yourself. Not in the drive-thru where the servers are usually teens. Personally I wouldn't want some naked man outside my child's school either. Hassan did say that there could be reasonable restrictions placed on where you could be nude. So, walking near the daycare put your pants on, in the park take them off, the corner store? What will happen to no shirt, no shoes, no service?
Remember, Gwen Jacobs of Guelph, Ontario who decided she wanted to go topless and win the right for all of us some years back? Not something we were clamoring for. Try fighting for equal pay, helping to break the glass ceiling, paying the same as men for dry cleaning and I could go on. You get my drift. There are far more important issues deserving court time and money.
As beautiful a country as this one is, it's not conducive to living life in the nude either. We have horse flies, deer flies, black flies and mosquitoes just to name a few! You are definitely a daredevil if you're running around naked in Canada.
Once in a while it's an inadvertent glimpse that gets everyone talking. Most of you will be aware of a picture caught at the end of the royal tour. It was a windy day in Calgary when cameras caught an unintentional flash of the royal fanny. A little embarrassing for Kate, but she certainly left a lasting impression. (If that were me, looking like that, I would be proud. Wills will likely frame it!) That debate is over the propriety of the photographer's choice to post the show. You can take part in our poll on the issue on our website.
Paul and Carol Mott can be heard discussing the issues weekdays from 11 a.m. until noon streamed through their website themotts.ca.
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