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2007 Rugby World Cup: South Africa, Australia and New Zealand qualify

September 24, 2007 In the 2007 Rugby World Cup, the three major southern hemisphere nations secured qualification to the quarter final stage of the competition. Meanwhile, defending champions England kept their hopes alive with a comfortable 44-22 victory against Samoa, while Argentina pushed for the quarter finals with a comprehensive victory against Namibia.

In Pool A, South Africa overcame Tonga 30-25 after falling behind early in the second half. Having led 7-3 at half time thanks to a Ruan Pienaar try, the Springboks stumbled when Kisi Pulu scored a try for Tonga. However Juan Smith, Bobby Skinstad and Ruan Pienaar all added tries in the second half to secure a bonus point for South Africa. Tonga made a late breakthrough with two tries in quick succession from Sukanaivalu Hufanga and Viliami Vaki but it was not enough to overcome the deficit.

England defeated Samoa 44-22 to claim a vital bonus point and keep the defence of their title on track. Tries from Martin Corry and Paul Sackey helped England to a 23-12 lead at half time as Loki Crichton kept Samoa in the match with the boot. Junior Polu reduced the deficit to four points with a try for Samoa, but Corry and Sackey added tries for England while Jonny Wilkinson kicked 24 points to take England to victory.

Argentina scored nine tries in their 63-3 victory over Namibia. Morne Schreuder opened the scoring with a penalty for Namibia, but Argentina prevented them from scoring again. Argentina remain at the top of Pool D to stake a claim to a quarter final place.

Australia scored seven tries as they secured top spot in Pool B with a 55-12 victory over Fiji. Tries from Adam Ashley-Cooper and Stephen Hoiles, two from Matt Giteau and a hat trick from D Mitchell won the match for Australia. Fiji's only scores came from Isoa Neivua and Aca Ratuva but they never looked like threatening the Wallabies.

New Zealand did not concede any points as they defeated Scotland 40-0 to top Pool C. Scotland struggled against a dominant New Zealand side, who scored six tries. Richie McCaw, Doug Howlett (2), Byron Kelleher, Ali Williams and Daniel Carter were New Zealand's scorers.


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Talk:Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with Green candidate Doug Anderson, Whitby-Oshawa

Doug Anderson

Green Party candidate

Whitby-Oshawa riding

Email: douganderson@greenparty.ca

Web: douganderson.greenparty.ca

Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process?

The environment is in a mess and the Green Party is the only Party that knows how to fix it.

Why did you choose to run in this constituency? I’ve lived here for 37 years.

What prior political experience do you have?

*

Active in the NDP in the early 60’s. *

Ran as an independent candidate in opposition to the GST in the 1993 federal election. *

Elected to the Federal Council of the Green Party in Aug/06

What skills and insight can you bring to office, from other non-political positions you may have held?

*

Trained in science, 15 years as a hospital lab technologist including 5 in management. *

Entrepreneur: 15 years as a newspaper publisher/owner –Whitby Free Press and Durham Business News – extensive skills in media, marketing, and project management. *

Active in the heritage movement – received Ontario Volunteer Service Award for 25 years service to the Whitby Historical Society.

Which of your competitors do you expect to pose the biggest challenge to your candidacy? Why? What makes you the most desirable of all candidates running in the riding?

I am running in a field of my own and I expect to take votes from all of them.

What do you feel are the three most important issues to voters in your riding? Are these the same top three issues that are most important to you? Yes What would you do to address these issues?

The environment:

1) shift emphasis from roads to transit,

2) incentives to alternative energy so that the coal plants can be shut down ASAP,

3) Cancel any pending or in-process approvals for new garbage incineration including the one just down the road in Clarington.

What should be the first order of business in the 39th Legislative Assembly?

That depends. If it is a minority government and MMP is approved the first business should be to implement MMP so that it is in place for the next election.

Are the property taxes in your riding at a fair level for the amount of services received in the municipality?

Higher than they need to be. Because suburban municipal governments don’t get the media scrutiny that higher levels of government get, they get away with some sloppy spending.

How can the province lead the way in stimulating job creation?

By embracing sustainability. The carbon-based economy is coming to an end whether the oil companies want to admit it or not. There are two scenarios:

1.

It will end with a crash when oil falls into really short supply. 2.

We can plan for it. Those governments which encourage and support energy alternatives and sustainability will be creating good jobs for the new economy

What are your views on the mixed member proportional representation (MMP) referendum?

Support it!!!

What role, if any, does “new media” play in your campaign, and the campaign of your party? (websites, blogs, Facebook, YouTube videos, etc) Do you view it as beneficial, or a challenge?

I have built a fairly extensive website: douganderson.greenparty.ca but haven’t the time or manpower for the others.

Of the decisions made by Ontario's 38th Legislative Assembly, which was the most beneficial to your this electoral district? To the province as a whole? Which was least beneficial, or even harmful, to your this riding? To the province as a whole?

I can’t think of anything out of the last session which had a particular effect on this riding. The things that affect us are the bureaucratic implementations of long-ago decisions. These relate to growth issues like development, roads, GO transit, greenbelt, waste management … the list goes on.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/


text:
Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with Green candidate Doug Anderson, Whitby-Oshawa

September 24, 2007 Doug Anderson is running for the Green Party of Ontario in the Ontario provincial election, in the Whitby-Oshawa riding. Wikinews' Nick Moreau interviewed him regarding his values, his experience, and his campaign.

Stay tuned for further interviews; every candidate from every party is eligible, and will be contacted. Expect interviews from Liberals, Progressive Conservatives, New Democratic Party members, Ontario Greens, as well as members from the Family Coalition, Freedom, Communist, Libertarian, and Confederation of Regions parties, as well as independents.

Interview
'''Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? Why did you choose to run in this constituency?'''
 * The environment is in a mess and the Green Party is the only Party that knows how to fix it. I've lived here [in this riding] for 37 years.

What prior political experience do you have?'
 * Active in the NDP in the early 60’s.
 * Ran as an independent candidate in opposition to the GST in the 1993 federal election.
 * Elected to the Federal Council of the Green Party in Aug/06

What skills and insight can you bring to office, from other non-political positions you may have held?
 * Trained in science, 15 years as a hospital lab technologist including five in management.
 * Entrepreneur: 15 years as a newspaper publisher/owner –Whitby Free Press and Durham Business News – extensive skills in media, marketing, and project management.
 * Active in the heritage movement – received Ontario Volunteer Service Award for 25 years service to the Whitby Historical Society.

'''Which of your competitors do you expect to pose the biggest challenge to your candidacy? Why? What makes you the most desirable of all candidates running in the riding?'''
 * I am running in a field of my own and I expect to take votes from all of them.

'''What do you feel are the three most important issues to voters in your riding? Are these the same top three issues that are most important to you? What would you do to address these issues?'''
 * The environment:
 * shift emphasis from roads to transit,
 * incentives to alternative energy so that the coal plants can be shut down ASAP,
 * cancel any pending or in-process approvals for new garbage incineration including the one just down the road in Clarington.

What should be the first order of business in the 39th Legislative Assembly?
 * That depends. If it is a minority government and MMP is approved the first business should be to implement MMP so that it is in place for the next election.

Are the property taxes in your riding at a fair level for the amount of services received in the municipality?
 * Higher than they need to be. Because suburban municipal governments don’t get the media scrutiny that higher levels of government get, they get away with some sloppy spending.

How can the province lead the way in stimulating job creation?
 * By embracing sustainability. The carbon-based economy is coming to an end whether the oil companies want to admit it or not. There are two scenarios:
 * It will end with a crash when oil falls into really short supply.
 * We can plan for it. Those governments which encourage and support energy alternatives and sustainability will be creating good jobs for the new economy

What are your views on the mixed member proportional representation (MMP) referendum?
 * Support it!!!

'''What role, if any, does “new media” play in your campaign, and the campaign of your party? (websites, blogs, Facebook, YouTube videos, etc) Do you view it as beneficial, or a challenge?'''
 * I have built a fairly extensive website: douganderson.greenparty.ca but haven’t the time or manpower for the others.

'''Of the decisions made by Ontario's 38th Legislative Assembly, which was the most beneficial to your this electoral district? To the province as a whole? Which was least beneficial, or even harmful, to your this riding? To the province as a whole?'''
 * I can't think of anything out of the last session which had a particular effect on this riding. The things that affect us are the bureaucratic implementations of long-ago decisions. These relate to growth issues like development, roads, GO transit, greenbelt, waste management... the list goes on.


text:
Talk:Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with Green candidate Andrew McAvoy, Windsor-Tecumseh

Answers to Ontario candidate Questions - by Andrew McAvoy, Green Party, Windsor-Tecumseh

Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? Why did you choose to run in this constituency?

My decision to run as a candidate is for the same reasons as some many people call Windsor-Tecumseh their home – because I love my community and I care about our future.

What prior political experience do you have? What skills and insight can you bring to office, from other non-political positions you may have held?

Born and raised in Windsor, Mr. McAvoy has studied at the University of Windsor, University of Western Ontario, and St. Clair College. While at the University of Windsor, Mr. McAvoy was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Student’s Alliance as well as the Finance Committee. Mr. McAvoy also served on the President’s Advisory Council, on the University of Windsor Human Rights Panel, and as a member of the Special Needs Advisory Committee.

Which of your competitors do you expect to pose the biggest challenge to your candidacy? Why? What makes you the most desirable of all candidates running in the riding?

Residents are telling me that our current representation is not listening to us. As a voter in this riding too, I agree. Any politician can make promises. It takes a special individual to follow-through. I have outlined a Follow-Through Plan for Windsor-Tecumseh, which will ensure that I will be accountable to you. Please visit my website or call my campaign office for full details on this plan.

What do you feel are the three most important issues to voters in your riding? Are these the same top three issues that are most important to you? What would you do to address these issues?

 * Accountability in representation - MPPs should be accountable to their constituents and should represent their wishes

 * Jobs and the economy - the need for new sustainable jobs and policies to encourage growth

 * Border crossing - the need to take a common sense approach towards a full tunneling solution

What should be the first order of business in the 39th Legislative Assembly?

Addressing the crisis with jobs and the economy in Ontario.

Are the property taxes in your riding at a fair level for the amount of services received in the municipality?

No they are not. I will work to make changes to the current property assessment process and fight to replace the existing system with a new Location Value Tax system that is fair for everyone.

How can the province lead the way in stimulating job creation?

First, create a plan. Second, follow-through with a sound plan.

As MPP, my follow-through plan includes tirelessly working towards sustainable job growth, and doing so immediately, for the 1 in 10 unemployed people in our riding. I will work hard to create common sense solutions with the private sector along with the creation of sound public policies ensuring the creation of sustainable jobs and the building of a brighter tomorrow for Windsor/Essex County.

What are your views on the mixed member proportional representation (MMP) referendum?

I have not come to a personal decision on how I vote. As a candidate, I feel it inappropriate to take a public position. This is a decision of all Ontarians, and I respect our choice to choose together without any political interference.

What role, if any, does “new media” play in your campaign, and the campaign of your party? (websites, blogs, Facebook, YouTube videos, etc) Do you view it as beneficial, or a challenge?

Website is a huge part of my campaign. It allows me to get my message to all the residents of my riding, but also to hear from them on the issues that are close to their heart. I have a campaign Facebook group as well as our campaign events listed as Facebook events. All these are benefits to my campaign and to the greater good for voters.

Of the decisions made by Ontario's 38th Legislative Assembly, which was the most beneficial to your this electoral district? To the province as a whole? Which was least beneficial, or even harmful, to your this riding? To the province as a whole?

This last Parliament was treated by the McGuinty government as a place to break promises. They did more harm to the public’s perception of politicians as far back as I can recall.


text:
Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with Green candidate Andrew McAvoy, Windsor-Tecumseh

September 24, 2007 Andrew McAvoy is running for the Green Party of Ontario in the Ontario provincial election, in the Windsor-Tecumseh riding. Wikinews' Nick Moreau interviewed him regarding his values, his experience, and his campaign.

Stay tuned for further interviews; every candidate from every party is eligible, and will be contacted. Expect interviews from Liberals, Progressive Conservatives, New Democratic Party members, Ontario Greens, as well as members from the Family Coalition, Freedom, Communist, Libertarian, and Confederation of Regions parties, as well as independents.

Interview
'''Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? Why did you choose to run in this constituency?'''
 * My decision to run as a candidate is for the same reasons as some many people call Windsor-Tecumseh their home – because I love my community and I care about our future.

'''What prior political experience do you have? What skills and insight can you bring to office, from other non-political positions you may have held?'''
 * Born and raised in Windsor, I has studied at the University of Windsor, University of Western Ontario, and St. Clair College. While at the University of Windsor, I was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Student's Alliance as well as the Finance Committee. I also served on the President’s Advisory Council, on the University of Windsor Human Rights Panel, and as a member of the Special Needs Advisory Committee.

'''Which of your competitors do you expect to pose the biggest challenge to your candidacy? Why? What makes you the most desirable of all candidates running in the riding?'''
 * Residents are telling me that our current representation is not listening to us. As a voter in this riding too, I agree. Any politician can make promises. It takes a special individual to follow-through. I have outlined a Follow-Through Plan for Windsor-Tecumseh, which will ensure that I will be accountable to you. Please visit my website or call my campaign office for full details on this plan.

'''What do you feel are the three most important issues to voters in your riding? Are these the same top three issues that are most important to you? What would you do to address these issues?'''
 * Accountability in representation - MPPs should be accountable to their constituents and should represent their wishes
 * Jobs and the economy - the need for new sustainable jobs and policies to encourage growth
 * Border crossing - the need to take a common sense approach towards a full tunneling solution

What should be the first order of business in the 39th Legislative Assembly?
 * Addressing the crisis with jobs and the economy in Ontario.

Are the property taxes in your riding at a fair level for the amount of services received in the municipality?
 * No they are not. I will work to make changes to the current property assessment process and fight to replace the existing system with a new Location Value Tax system that is fair for everyone.

How can the province lead the way in stimulating job creation?
 * First, create a plan. Second, follow-through with a sound plan.

 * As MPP, my follow-through plan includes tirelessly working towards sustainable job growth, and doing so immediately, for the 1 in 10 unemployed people in our riding. I will work hard to create common sense solutions with the private sector along with the creation of sound public policies ensuring the creation of sustainable jobs and the building of a brighter tomorrow for Windsor/Essex County.

What are your views on the mixed member proportional representation (MMP) referendum?
 * I have not come to a personal decision on how I vote. As a candidate, I feel it inappropriate to take a public position. This is a decision of all Ontarians, and I respect our choice to choose together without any political interference.

'''What role, if any, does “new media” play in your campaign, and the campaign of your party? (websites, blogs, Facebook, YouTube videos, etc) Do you view it as beneficial, or a challenge?'''
 * Website is a huge part of my campaign. It allows me to get my message to all the residents of my riding, but also to hear from them on the issues that are close to their heart. I have a campaign Facebook group as well as our campaign events listed as Facebook events. All these are benefits to my campaign and to the greater good for voters.

'''Of the decisions made by Ontario's 38th Legislative Assembly, which was the most beneficial to your this electoral district? To the province as a whole? Which was least beneficial, or even harmful, to your this riding? To the province as a whole?'''
 * This last Parliament was treated by the McGuinty government as a place to break promises. They did more harm to the public’s perception of politicians as far back as I can recall.

Please note that minor changes have been made to the deictic references in one answer.


text:
Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with Green candidate Bruce Haines, Bramalea-Gore-Malton

September 24, 2007 Bruce Haines is running for the Green Party of Ontario in the Ontario provincial election, in the Bramalea-Gore-Malton riding. Wikinews' Nick Moreau interviewed him regarding his values, his experience, and his campaign.

Stay tuned for further interviews; every candidate from every party is eligible, and will be contacted. Expect interviews from Liberals, Progressive Conservatives, New Democratic Party members, Ontario Greens, as well as members from the Family Coalition, Freedom, Communist, Libertarian, and Confederation of Regions parties, as well as independents.

Interview
'''Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? Why did you choose to run in this constituency?'''
 * During the last year I have become very involved in helping my community locally on environmental issues, urban sprawl/greenspace issues and at a local food bank and soup kitchen. A number of people noticed my efforts and suggested that I run for MPP, so I took them up on the challenge. I chose to run in the riding where my family and I live and where my children go to school. With two children now, and another on the way, I wanted to make sure we left behind a better world for the future generations.

'''What prior political experience do you have? What skills and insight can you bring to office, from other non-political positions you may have held?'''
 * I have followed the political process throughout my life, and on three occasions have helped municipal candidates with their campaigns. I have a tremendous amount of experience working in a community setting, both as a police officer and as a business owner. I have the ability to work well with people from varying cultures, and tend to gain respect from others quickly.

'''Which of your competitors do you expect to pose the biggest challenge to your candidacy? Why? What makes you the most desirable of all candidates running in the riding?'''
 * The biggest challenge will be overcoming the status quo parties, rather than the other candidates themselves. The other parties have been around for a long time and people have developed a loyalty that is sometimes hard to overcome.

 * I believe I am the best candidate for my riding because I have the ability to unite our community and make it stronger. I am a strong, vocal, active person who possesses the right leadership attributes to help the constituents in my riding. Throughout my life I have demonstrated that I am a noticeable leader: during my high school days I was President of the Athletic Association; during my policing career I advanced quickly, and in business I have built up a company that employs more than 125 people and is respected in its market.

'''What do you feel are the three most important issues to voters in your riding? Are these the same top three issues that are most important to you? What would you do to address these issues?'''

 * Whichever issues are important to the public are important to me. I believe three of the biggest right now are health, education, and climate change. My stance on each issue would be:

 * Health - There are two priorities here. First, we must ensure that no more hospitals are built with private involvement. The citizens of Ontario want a fully public health system, not decades of obligation to private companies. Second, we must focus more on prevention and healthy lifestyles, to prevent diseases before they occur rather than treating them after the fact. Unhealthy lifestyles are placing a huge burden on our health system and are part of the reason the system is under so much financial strain.

 * Education - Parents should not have to fundraise for their children's education -- that's not the meaning of "publicly funded". We need to find more money, and we can't take it from other areas that need it either. This is why I support a single public school system. Merging our school boards will save hundreds of millions of dollars, which can be used to restore important school services that have been eroded through years of cost-cutting.

 * Climate Change - We need to take immediate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This is not as tough a problem as some people make it out to be, because they are so many different things we can do to make a difference. We need to reduce energy consumption and increase efficiency (Canadians are some of the world's worst energy-wasters) by setting tougher standards on appliances, homes, and technology. We need to reduce our use of cars by encouraging carpooling and transit, as well as making communities walkable.

What should be the first order of business in the 39th Legislative Assembly?
 * The issue that requires the most immediate attention is climate change. The road to sustainability is a long one, so we need to begin immediately. We need to set the tone and show the rest of Canada that Ontario will be leaders in halting and reversing climate change.

Are the property taxes in your riding at a fair level for the amount of services received in the municipality?
 * This is a difficult question because there are so many variables. We could be more efficient in how we deliver some services (such as education, where there is so much duplication between the two school boards), while other services are being delivered extremely well. It wouldn't be fair to paint everyone with the same brush.

How can the province lead the way in stimulating job creation?
 * First, by giving incentives to companies that create green products and deliver green services. As the world becomes more aware of our need to take care of environment, Ontario has the opportunity to become a leader in green solutions, which will bring money and jobs into the province.

 * A second way is by significantly reducing business taxes to encourage more businesses to locate in Ontario. Our plan is to shift taxes away from businesses and income, and onto resource use. This way, instead of penalising people for working or owning a business, we will penalise people who deplete or pollute our natural environment.

What are your views on the mixed member proportional representation (MMP) referendum?
 * The Citizens' Assembly put a lot of work into developing this system and tailoring it to Ontario's needs. It would be a great step forward for democracy in our province and would make us a leader in Canada.

'''What role, if any, does “new media” play in your campaign, and the campaign of your party? (websites, blogs, Facebook, YouTube videos, etc) Do you view it as beneficial, or a challenge?'''
 * Our party has embraced new media and recently launched a great website featuring blogs, articles, and video content. Within our own riding, our website features a question-and-answer page that allows any person in our riding to submit a question. Overall, new media presents an excellent opportunity to communicate directly with the public, which is what democracy is all about.

'''Of the decisions made by Ontario's 38th Legislative Assembly, which was the most beneficial to your this electoral district? To the province as a whole? Which was least beneficial, or even harmful, to your this riding? To the province as a whole?'''
 * Everyone has their own opinion about the last four years. Rather than spending time analysing the previous government's performance, I think the priority is to look at the challenges facing Ontario today, and determine what we, as citizens, need to accomplish over the next four years.


text:
Talk:Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with Green candidate Bruce Haines, Bramalea-Gore-Malton

No text in this interview was altered, so the notes are the same as the article. -- Zanimum 15:39, 24 September 2007 (UTC)


text:
Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with Green candidate Russ Aegard, Thunder Bay-Atikokan

September 24, 2007 Russ Aegard is running for the Green Party of Ontario in the Ontario provincial election, in the Thunder Bay-Atikokan riding. Wikinews' Nick Moreau interviewed him regarding his values, his experience, and his campaign.

Stay tuned for further interviews; every candidate from every party is eligible, and will be contacted. Expect interviews from Liberals, Progressive Conservatives, New Democratic Party members, Ontario Greens, as well as members from the Family Coalition, Freedom, Communist, Libertarian, and Confederation of Regions parties, as well as independents.

Interview
'''Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? Why did you choose to run in this constituency?'''
 * The main reason I have chosen to involve myself in the political process is my daughter. She is now 3 years old, and the world is becoming more polarized, more dangerous and more unhealthy.  This pattern of human behaviour has got to cease.  We are destroying the environment on which we depend upon to maintain a standard of living.  We are exploiting other cultures in order to receive cheap goods.  I want a better world for my daughter, and I figure the best way to do that is to make the changes myself.  I have ran in this constituency because I have lived in Northwestern Ontario all of my life.

'''What prior political experience do you have? What skills and insight can you bring to office, from other non-political positions you may have held?'''
 * I have run federally twice in my riding for the Green Party. I have sat on a few boards of various operations to assist in the management of the organizations.  As a teacher, I can draw upon a variety of skills in order to be an effective politician.  Having excellent listening skills is imperative in the role of a MPP.  Working cooperatively in a professional setting is another skill that makes an effective MPP.  Seeing first-hand how the policies of today's governments has affected children provides me with the insight that change is needed and is needed quickly.

'''Which of your competitors do you expect to pose the biggest challenge to your candidacy? Why? What makes you the most desirable of all candidates running in the riding?'''

 * All three of my competitors are going to have the challenge of being elected. As someone who is new to the race, and the Green Party being relatively new, my goal is to spread the Green message.  In my riding though, the seat will be hotly contested by the three other parties.  I feel that my youth, honesty and reliability makes me the most desirable of the candidates.  Our platform has a vision for the future; not just to get elected for the short term.

'''What do you feel are the three most important issues to voters in your riding? Are these the same top three issues that are most important to you? What would you do to address these issues?'''
 * The three most important issues for our riding are the forestry industry, relations between Aboriginal peoples and the government and health care. All issues are important to me; however, every issue stems from a very important centralizing idea: the environment.  For forestry, I would encourage the development of wood bio-mass electricity, value-added products and local ownership of the forestry industry.  I would encourage the transition for Aboriginal peoples to fulfill their destiny of a right to self-government.

 * For health, I would lay out our plan that is entirely different than the three major parties stances. Their solutions usually include the promising of millions and millions of dollars to hire more doctors, more nurses and more drugs.  However, the reason our health care system is burdened right now is due to the poisoning of our environment and lifestyle choices.  We would clean up our air, water and food systems and encourage people to become active again.

 * We would help working families find more time with their family instead of the constant dredge of working two jobs in order to make ends meet. Once our society becomes healthier, we will not need the health care system as much.

What should be the first order of business in the 39th Legislative Assembly?
 * Good question. The environment needs to be fixed up now.  Once we address the problems with our environment, everything else will heal itself.

Are the property taxes in your riding at a fair level for the amount of services received in the municipality?
 * In a simple answer, yes. A tax question always seems to pop up at election time.  Here is an abnormal statement;  I love paying my taxes.  I was born into a life of privilege, being a white, male.  I have had many more opportunities in life than the average Ontarian, and therefore, I have a social responsibility to make sure that ALL Ontarians enjoy a respectable standard of living.  Right now, that is not happening.  The only problem I have is when the government misuse my taxes (pay raises, cricket club donations, etc.)  We live in a society with free health care (although the last two governments are trying their best to privatize our system) and free education.  I do not want to trade that in for anything.

How can the province lead the way in stimulating job creation?
 * Be more innovative. Reform immigration laws that inhibit trained professionals from being able to enter the workplace immediately.  Ensuring that meaningful jobs are created.  Invest in local economies, instead of giving corporate welfare to industries that take our resources and export our money.

What are your views on the mixed member proportional representation (MMP) referendum?
 * We need to have a fair and representative parliament. Not a false majority where 10% of the population can actually vote in 100% of our MPPs.  This is not a typo.  It is improbably, but possible.  The fact that it is possible that 10% of Ontarians could conceivably be pushing their agenda through easily is a travesty of justice.  So many groups are not represented in Parliament, especially Aboriginal groups.  The Green Party is polling at 10% currently.  Therefore, about 800000 people will not have their voice heard in Parliament.  The Liberals and Conservatives do not want this to pass.  It would severely disrupt the power base that they have enjoyed for the last 150 years.  This is the reason for the corruptness and antagonistic policies that we have seen over the last 13 years or so.  Canada, the U.S. and England are the last developed countries to maintain this unfair system of voting, and understandably so.  They do not want the people to have the power in their countries.  They want the power to be maintained by the affluent citizens.  It's time for a change;  it's time for every Ontarian to be heard, whether it is someone who is living in the suburbs of Toronto or living on the streets of Ottawa.

'''What role, if any, does "new media" play in your campaign, and the campaign of your party? (websites, blogs, Facebook, YouTube videos, etc) Do you view it as beneficial, or a challenge?'''
 * Honestly, not much. As a full time teacher, I have not had the time to engage in a lot of the campaigning strategies of my peers.  I really can't answer if it's beneficial or a challenge.

'''Of the decisions made by Ontario's 38th Legislative Assembly, which was the most beneficial to your this electoral district? To the province as a whole? Which was least beneficial, or even harmful, to your this riding? To the province as a whole?'''
 * I think that the investments that they have made at our local hospital has been the most beneficial. For the province, instituting a rebate for the purchase of fuel-efficient cars was a tiny step in the right direction.

 * The least beneficial to this riding was the millions of dollars they provided to corporations that have control of the forestry industry. We need to get control of the industry put back into local interests.  Local ownership encourages better forest stewardship and economic practices as they have a long-term vested interest in making sure that they have a sustainable business for many many years.

 * To the province as a whole, the decision to give themselves a 40000 dollar a year raise was the biggest slap in our collective faces. I was physically ill when I heard of this decision.  So many people are struggling in our province, yet they decide to make themselves richer.  Their argument that you need to attract good people for the job does not hold any water.  I am happily willing to serve my government for any price.  I am a good person and am responsible and hard-working.  I must commend Howard Hampton on donating his 40000 dollars back to charity.  I'm not sure if he is going to continue to do that, but his effort this year does not go unnoticed.  Again, this is the arrogance of our current system.  I'm not sure how they can justify to anyone that they are worth twice, three times, even as high as ten times more than the full-time workers of this province.  I am responsible for the instruction and guiding of 25+ young minds every year, yet make half as much as someone who behaves like a child in parliament.  I guess when you're out of touch with reality, you make decisions such as those.


text:
Wikinews:CommonsTicker/20070924

24 September

title: Wikinews:CommonsTicker/20070924


text:
Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with Green candidate Martin Hyde, Ottawa West-Nepean

September 24, 2007 Martin Hyde is running for the Green Party of Ontario in the Ontario provincial election, in the Ottawa West-Nepean riding. Wikinews' Nick Moreau interviewed him regarding his values, his experience, and his campaign.

Note that he did not answer the question "Of the decisions made by Ontario's 38th Legislative Assembly, which was the most beneficial to your electoral district? To the province as a whole? Which was least beneficial, or even harmful, to this riding? To the province as a whole?"

Stay tuned for further interviews; every candidate from every party is eligible, and will be contacted. Expect interviews from Liberals, Progressive Conservatives, New Democratic Party members, Ontario Greens, as well as members from the Family Coalition, Freedom, Communist, Libertarian, and Confederation of Regions parties, as well as independents.

Interview
'''Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? Why did you choose to run in this constituency?'''

 * Environmental issues are core to our long term social, physical and economic health, both globally and locally. Globally there is no law — only agreements that participants sometimes choose to honour. In Canada law is made at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels. I attended my riding Green Party candidate nomination meeting because I wished to participate in the nomination process for the provincial election, and found that no one was contending for the position. I'm running because I believe it’s important for people who are concerned about environmental issues to have a Green Party candidate to vote for so that the larger parties will be forced to recognise their concerns.

 * Currently in Ontario, because we are not able to vote directly for a party, but are only able to do so by voting for a local candidate, it's crucial that a party runs a candidate in every riding so that people can make themselves heard. I believe the Multi Member Proportional system of voting will help solve this problem if we choose it in the Referendum on October 10.

 * I'm running in this riding because it's where I live.

'''What prior political experience do you have? What skills and insight can you bring to office, from other non-political positions you may have held?'''

 * I have no prior political experience.

 * I have been a teacher for many years in Ontario public schools, and international schools overseas, which has broadened my understanding of people and issues from many perspectives. I've often promoted environmental issues when teaching, through such things as partnered community cleanups, introducing recycling programs, and organizing Earth Days.

 * As a graduate student I studied democratic participation and education.

'''Which of your competitors do you expect to pose the biggest challenge to your candidacy? Why? What makes you the most desirable of all candidates running in the riding?'''

 * In my riding the Liberal MPP Jim Watson poses the biggest challenge. He is the incumbent, and has been a politician for many years.

 * I'm only the most desirable candidate for those voters who care about creating an economically and environmentally sustainable society in the long term.

'''What do you feel are the three most important issues to voters in your riding? Are these the same top three issues that are most important to you? What would you do to address these issues?'''

 * The issues which individuals care about are very diverse. The most important issues for those who are likely to vote Green are likely to be: a taxation plan which does not hit incomes, but directly targets non-renewable resource consumption — and in conjunction with incentives to reduce consumption, initiatives to replace dirty energy with clean, renewable energy sources; a single public school system which has the democratic interests of all Ontarians as its primary concern; and an emphasis on livable communities which promote walking and public transit, decreased levels of pollution, and increased opportunities for healthy activities. It's all about sustainability, economically, politically, and personally.

 * Our party platform contains specific details on how these issues would be addressed.

What should be the first order of business in the 39th Legislative Assembly?
 * The first order of business should be to begin shifting taxes away from personal income, health care, and corporate profit, and onto the consumption of resources. Specifically, our taxes will shift immediately to a 2% tax on oil, natural gas, and coal, as well as an increase in fees on the taking of aggregate (sand and gravel) and water, directly from our income taxes and the tax on health care.

Are the property taxes in your riding at a fair level for the amount of services received in the municipality?
 * This is an issue that is probably best addressed by voters at the municipal level. However, the Green Party has a plan to place a moratorium on increases in the assessed market value of residential properties and introduce a Location Value Tax, which will shift the focus from taxing buildings to taxing the land under the buildings. This would be a revenue neutral shift with the purpose of encouraging intensification of land use, while deterring sprawl.

How can the province lead the way in stimulating job creation?
 * The tax shift from income to resources will mean that labour will be cheaper for employers without a decrease in wages for employees. It will also provide an incentive to hire people to find more energy efficient ways of making products since non-renewable energy costs will be higher.

 * To encourage the repair and recycling of products the Green Party of Ontario will establish a Product Stewardship Program that will place the responsibility for the entire life cycle of a product with the manufacturer or importer. This will encourage the creation of jobs focused on designing products that can be repaired and recycled.

What are your views on the mixed member proportional representation (MMP) referendum?
 * My view is that the MMP system is better for everyone.

 * In the short term it is obviously better for smaller parties such as the Greens. In the 2006 federal election the Green Party of Canada won 4.5% of the vote. Fairness would seem to dictate that out of the 308 seats in the House of Commons, around 14 should be Green MPs. Yet there is not one Green MP in the House. Nearly 700,000 Canadians voted Green. Not one of them is represented by their party in the House of Commons.

 * In the 2003 Ontario election the Green Party only won 2.8% of the vote. Under the proposed MMP system we would not have been able to appoint an MPP. Yet we would only need an additional 0.2% to be eligible for, presumably, three to four MPPs. Clearly, this would be good for the Green Party of Ontario.

 * In the longer term it would also be good for the larger parties, and for those who vote for them. It’s true that their power stands to be diluted somewhat by parties that have broad support across the province, which will impair their ability to pass the laws they want today. But we all have to live under those laws, and in a democracy that means we should be represented in their creation. When we’re not, those laws begin to lack legitimacy.

 * In 2003, 43.2% of eligible voters in Ontario did not show up at the polls. There is something wrong when almost half of the people in our province who can have a say in the rules we live under choose not to. There are likely many reasons why people don’t show up, but one is certainly that many people feel their vote does not really count. It has no influence. This will be a problem for all of us in the long run because, the fewer people who participate in the creation of our laws, the less legitimate those laws will appear to be to an increasing number of people. When we have an opportunity to strengthen the foundations on which our society rests, we should take it.

 * A concern I’ve heard about MMP is that it could result in a large number of unelected MPPs. To understand this concern, consider this example.

 * You have a legislature with 100 seats. Party X wins 20% of the provincial vote, but only 15 seats. Under MMP Party X will be allowed to appoint five MPPs from their list to bring them up to 20 seats. The concern is that those five MPPs are not elected, but appointed from a list, and that they will not be responsible for any particular riding.

 * What's important, though, is how those lists are created. People voting for Party X would know, well in advance, who might be appointed, and how that list of appointees was created. If they disagreed with the list, or how the list was generated, they could choose not to vote for the party. The fact that 20% of electors still voted for the party would indicate that they were generally okay with the list. While the five appointed MPPs would not be responsible to a local constituency, they would be responsible to voters for Party X in the province as a whole.

 * If a voter liked the local Party X candidate but not the list, they would not have to vote for the party. They could simply vote only for the local candidate.

 * A second concern is that this system will result in minority governments, but just because minority governments are unstable under FPTP does not mean they will be under MMP where minority status would be a clear picture of the will of the people rather than an ambiguity which makes decision making difficult.

 * Ultimately, whichever way the referendum goes, this is a unique opportunity for all of us. In a democracy we do not always get our way. What holds us together and allows us to live under laws which we may not necessarily agree with is our general agreement with the system itself. And on October 10 we get to decide on the structure of that system, together. So whether we choose the FPTP or the MMP system, the act of participating in this referendum will only serve to strengthen our democracy.

 * That said, because the MMP system will allow representation of a large number of individuals who are currently not represented I believe it is the better choice. It will be good for democracy not only by improving the representation of those who are still trying to be heard, but by bringing back to the table those who have given up participating because they find the exercise to be pointless.

'''What role, if any, does "new media" play in your campaign, and the campaign of your party? (websites, blogs, Facebook, YouTube videos, etc) Do you view it as beneficial, or a challenge?'''
 * I came to this late, but a website is obviously important, and will be a part of my campaign (and is already if you count www.gpo.ca). Blogs, especially interactive ones, are great ways to communicate and learn from others. Facebook, YouTube and wikis, are very interesting ways to generate shared knowledge. I appreciate being asked to contribute here.


text:
Talk:Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with Green candidate Martin Hyde, Ottawa West-Nepean

Martin Hyde

Ottawa West-Nepean GPO candidate

http://own.greenparty.ca

September 2007

Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? Why did you choose to run in this constituency?

Environmental issues are core to our long term social, physical and economic health, both globally and locally. Globally there is no law – only agreements that participants sometimes choose to honour. In Canada law is made at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels. I attended my riding Green Party candidate nomination meeting because I wished to participate in the nomination process for the provincial election, and found that no one was contending for the position. I’m running because I believe it’s important for people who are concerned about environmental issues to have a Green Party candidate to vote for so that the larger parties will be forced to recognise their concerns. Currently in Ontario, because we are not able to vote directly for a party, but are only able to do so by voting for a local candidate, it’s crucial that a party runs a candidate in every riding so that people can make themselves heard. I believe the Multi Member Proportional system of voting will help solve this problem if we choose it in the Referendum on October 10.

I’m running in this riding because it’s where I live.

What prior political experience do you have? What skills and insight can you bring to office, from other non-political positions you may have held?

I have no prior political experience.

I have been a teacher for many years in Ontario public schools, and international schools overseas, which has broadened my understanding of people and issues from many perspectives. I’ve often promoted environmental issues when teaching, through such things as partnered community cleanups, introducing recycling programs, and organizing Earth Days.

As a graduate student I studied democratic participation and education.

Which of your competitors do you expect to pose the biggest challenge to your candidacy? Why? What makes you the most desirable of all candidates running in the riding?What do you feel are the three most important issues to voters in your riding? Are these the same top three issues that are most important to you? What would you do to address these issues?

In my riding the Liberal MPP Jim Watson poses the biggest challenge. He is the incumbent, and has been a politician for many years.

I’m only the most desirable candidate for those voters who care about creating an economically and environmentally sustainable society in the long term.

The issues which individuals care about are very diverse. The most important issues for those who are likely to vote Green are likely to be: a taxation plan which does not hit incomes, but directly targets non-renewable resource consumption – and in conjunction with incentives to reduce consumption, initiatives to replace dirty energy with clean, renewable energy sources; a single public school system which has the democratic interests of all Ontarians as its primary concern; and an emphasis on livable communities which promote walking and public transit, decreased levels of pollution, and increased opportunities for healthy activities. It’s all about sustainability, economically, politically, and personally.

Our party platform contains specific details on how these issues would be addressed.

What should be the first order of business in the 39th Legislative Assembly?

The first order of business should be to begin shifting taxes away from personal income, health care, and corporate profit, and onto the consumption of resources. Specifically, our taxes will shift immediately to a 2% tax on oil, natural gas, and coal, as well as an increase in fees on the taking of aggregate (sand and gravel) and water, directly from our income taxes and the tax on health care.

Are the property taxes in your riding at a fair level for the amount of services received in the municipality?

This is an issue that is probably best addressed by voters at the municipal level. However, the Green Party has a plan to place a moratorium on increases in the assessed market value of residential properties and introduce a Location Value Tax, which will shift the focus from taxing buildings to taxing the land under the buildings. This would be a revenue neutral shift with the purpose of encouraging intensification of land use, while detering sprawl.

How can the province lead the way in stimulating job creation?

The tax shift from income to resources will mean that labour will be cheaper for employers without a decrease in wages for employees. It will also provide an incentive to hire people to find more energy efficient ways of making products since non-renewable energy costs will be higher.

To encourage the repair and recycling of products the Green Party of Ontario will establish a Product Stewardship Program that will place the responsibility for the entire life cycle of a product with the manufacturer or importer. This will encourage the creation of jobs focused on designing products that can be repaired and recycled.

What are your views on the mixed member proportional representation (MMP) referendum?

My view is that the MMP system is better for everyone.

In the short term it is obviously better for smaller parties such as the Greens. In the 2006 federal election the Green Party of Canada won 4.5% of the vote. Fairness would seem to dictate that out of the 308 seats in the House of Commons, around 14 should be Green MPs. Yet there is not one Green MP in the House. Nearly 700,000 Canadians voted Green. Not one of them is represented by their party in the House of Commons.

In the 2003 Ontario election the Green Party only won 2.8% of the vote. Under the proposed MMP system we would not have been able to appoint an MPP. Yet we would only need an additional 0.2% to be eligible for, presumably, three to four MPPs. Clearly, this would be good for the Green Party of Ontario.

In the longer term it would also be good for the larger parties, and for those who vote for them. It’s true that their power stands to be diluted somewhat by parties that have broad support across the province, which will impair their ability to pass the laws they want today. But we all have to live under those laws, and in a democracy that means we should be represented in their creation. When we’re not, those laws begin to lack legitimacy.

In 2003, 43.2% of eligible voters in Ontario did not show up at the polls. There is something wrong when almost half of the people in our province who can have a say in the rules we live under choose not to. There are likely many reasons why people don’t show up, but one is certainly that many people feel their vote does not really count. It has no influence. This will be a problem for all of us in the long run because, the fewer people who participate in the creation of our laws, the less legitimate those laws will appear to be to an increasing number of people. When we have an opportunity to strengthen the foundations on which our society rests, we should take it.

A concern I’ve heard about MMP is that it could result in a large number of unelected MPPs. To understand this concern, consider this example.

You have a legislature with 100 seats. Party X wins 20% of the provincial vote, but only 15 seats. Under MMP Party X will be allowed to appoint 5 MPPs from their list to bring them up to 20 seats. The concern is that those 5 MPPs are not elected, but appointed from a list, and that they will not be responsible for any particular riding.

What’s important, though, is how those lists are created. People voting for Party X would know, well in advance, who might be appointed, and how that list of appointees was created. If they disagreed with the list, or how the list was generated, they could choose not to vote for the party. The fact that 20% of electors still voted for the party would indicate that they were generally okay with the list. While the 5 appointed MPPs would not be responsible to a local constituency, they would be responsible to voters for Party X in the province as a whole.

If a voter liked the local Party X candidate but not the list, they would not have to vote for the party. They could simply vote only for the local candidate.

A second concern is that this system will result in minority governments, but just because minority governments are unstable under FPTP does not mean they will be under MMP where minority status would be a clear picture of the will of the people rather than an ambiguity which makes decision making difficult.

Ultimately, whichever way the referendum goes, this is a unique opportunity for all of us. In a democracy we do not always get our way. What holds us together and allows us to live under laws which we may not necessarily agree with is our general agreement with the system itself. And on October 10 we get to decide on the structure of that system, together. So whether we choose the FPTP or the MMP system, the act of participating in this referendum will only serve to strengthen our democracy.

That said, because the MMP system will allow representation of a large number of individuals who are currently not represented I believe it is the better choice. It will be good for democracy not only by improving the representation of those who are still trying to be heard, but by bringing back to the table those who have given up participating because they find the exercise to be pointless.

What role, if any, does "new media" play in your campaign, and the campaign of your party? (websites, blogs, Facebook, YouTube videos, etc) Do you view it as beneficial, or a challenge?

I came to this late, but a website is obviously important, and will be a part of my campaign (and is already if you count www.gpo.ca). Blogs, especially interactive ones, are great ways to communicate and learn from others. Facebook, YouTube and wikis, are very interesting ways to generate shared knowledge. I appreciate being asked to contribute here.

Of the decisions made by Ontario's 38th Legislative Assembly, which was the most beneficial to your electoral district? To the province as a whole? Which was least beneficial, or even harmful, to this riding? To the province as a whole?


text:
Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with NDP candidate Felicite Stairs, Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke

September 24, 2007 Felicite Stairs is running for the Ontario NDP in the Ontario provincial election, in the Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke riding. Wikinews' Nick Moreau interviewed her regarding her values, her experience, and her campaign.

Stay tuned for further interviews; every candidate from every party is eligible, and will be contacted. Expect interviews from Liberals, Progressive Conservatives, New Democratic Party members, Ontario Greens, as well as members from the Family Coalition, Freedom, Communist, Libertarian, and Confederation of Regions parties, as well as independents.

Interview
'''Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? Why did you choose to run in this constituency?'''
 * I became involved because through my work as a legal clinic lawyer, I came into contact with many people with problems either deliberately created or inadvertently worsened by bad public policy. I chose to run here because I live here and love the strong characters and families I meet here.

'''What prior political experience do you have? What skills and insight can you bring to office, from other non-political positions you may have held?'''
 * I ran for the first time in the 2003 provincial election and have been involved in NDP politics for about 15 years. I have worked with and, in several cases, helped found a range of non-profit community organizations, as well as others working at the provincial and national levels. As a lawyer and full-time volunteer I have a good sense of how to work with people, how things get done and how to make things happen.

'''Which of your competitors do you expect to pose the biggest challenge to your candidacy? Why?'''
 * John Yakabuski, as incumbent and as the capital-C conservative in a riding that is in many ways conservative-minded, has a large advantage, especially due to the loyalty his late father, the former MPP Paul Yakabuski, commanded.

What makes you the most desirable of all candidates running in the riding?
 * Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke is economically disadvantaged. People here need an advocate who takes up the case of ordinary people and families. The Conservatives and Liberals are the voices of big business and the well-off. Their policies do not represent the best interests of the kind of lower- and middle-income families who live here. The NDP's policies and commitments do.

What do you feel are the three most important issues to voters in your riding?
 * It is hard to settle on just three, but broadly, we might say
 * poverty and cuts to public services
 * rural decline and the lack of positive response to change in the rural economy
 * the needs of an aging society

'''Are these the same top three issues that are most important to you? What would you do to address these issues?'''
 * These are some of the issues on which my campaign is focusing. The points in my campaign literature summarize our key pledges to voters:
 * Increasing the minimum wage to $10 per hour. NOW.
 * Fixing the Harris/McGuinty school funding formula and putting money back into our kids' education.
 * Protecting our children's health and environment with a right-to-know law, and fighting climate change
 * a Heath Tax Rebate for working families and shorter health care wait times
 * Guaranteed minimum standards of care for seniors
 * Removing barriers to university, college and apprenticeship training, and rolling back tuition fees, eliminating them for apprenticeship.

What should be the first order of business in the 39th Legislative Assembly?
 * Increasing the minimum wage to CA$10 per hour would be a good and easy place to start.

Are the property taxes in your riding at a fair level for the amount of services received in the municipality?
 * No. The assessment formula brought in by the Conservatives and never fixed by the Liberals has combined with provincial downloading to place an unfair burden on local ratepayers.

How can the province lead the way in stimulating job creation?
 * An NDP government would invest in green industries, from the construction of public transportation to the installation of insulation and the production of energy-saving appliances. This could produce new jobs and place Ontario at the forefront of a worldwide movement to fight global warming.

What are your views on the mixed member proportional representation (MMP) referendum?
 * I support it. The current system is antiquated. It does not fairly reflect the views of the public and frequently results in skewed electoral results. I believe the referendum proposal is a good step toward correcting these problems.

'''What role, if any, does “new media” play in your campaign, and the campaign of your party? (websites, blogs, Facebook, YouTube videos, etc) Do you view it as beneficial, or a challenge?'''
 * We use our website and email extensively in our campaign. They have completely changed how we run campaigns. Because there are so few opportunities for young people in this area, many leave. We wish we had more young people involved to further promote the use of new technologies. Technology, however, will never replace human contact, and it should not be allowed to do so.

'''Of the decisions made by Ontario's 38th Legislative Assembly, which was the most beneficial to your this electoral district? To the province as a whole? Which was least beneficial, or even harmful, to your this riding? To the province as a whole?'''
 * I am glad the Liberal government stopped vilifying public servants in the way their predecessor did. What bothers me is that, beside the famous broken promises, so much of what the Liberals did in government has perpetuated the damage and problems created by the Conservatives. The funding formula continues to inadequately fund schools. Public service cuts from natural resources to agriculture to court houses make life harder and harder for rural communities. Unfair tax assessment continues. Public housing programs and social assistance policies remain inadequate and punitive. There is a lengthy list of problems for our rural communities created or worsened by the Conservatives and left to fester by the McGuinty Liberals.


text:
Televangelist Rex Humbard dies

September 22, 2007

Rex Humbard, who for several decades was one of the United States most popular televangelists, died in Florida Friday at the age of 88 of heart failure.

Humbard first conducted television broadcasts of his Christian ministry in 1953. Five years later, the 5400-seat Cathedral of Tomorrow was constructed as the new headquarters for Humbard's weekly church services.

title: Televangelist Rex Humbard dies


text:
User:Jorunn

m:User:Jorunn

title: User:Jorunn


text:
Trichet attacks Europe's number one spender

September 24, 2007 Jean-Claude Trichet, president of the Frankfurt, Germany, based European Central Bank ECB, today in an interview with radio station Europe-1 scolded France for spending to much, warning the country's finances were in a 'critical' state.

Previously, French president Nicolas Sarcozy had attacked the ECB for not lowering rates even when the euro reached a new record high of 1.41 € against the US dollar. Trichet used the radio interview for a counter-attack and claimed that the problems France might have with international competition were homemade and resulted from "France’s high public expenditure and inability to curb the rise in its production costs", stating that France should take Germany as a role model, with lower public expenditure and higher export rates.

As for exchange rates, Trichet referred to the G7 group, where exchange rates are and should be negotiated, and just mentioned the quote of Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke, that a strong dollar was good for the US economy.


text:
Thunderstone to support Sonata Arctica on Christmas tour of Finland

September 24, 2007 have joined up with as the latter's support act for a four-gig mini tour across the days between Christmas and. Both acts are bands native to Finland, where the tour is being held.

The four dates and venues have been confirmed as follows:

The gigs in Oulu and Mikkeli will feature Tuple Salminen of filling the role of lead vocals, while the Helsinki and Tampere concerts will feature original singer Pasi Rantanen, who is leaving the band, for the last time.
 * December 27 - Teatria -, Finland
 * December 29 - Kaapelitehdas - Helsinki, Finland
 * December 30 - Metroauto Areena - Tampere, Finland
 * December 31 - Jäähalli -, Finland

Lead guitarist Nino Laurenne made this statement regarding the adition of Thunderstone to Sonata Arctica's tour: "It's great to close one chapter of Thunderstone with these two Christmas gigs and show people that there is no animosity between us. We are looking forward to a bright future with the new members, whoever they turn out to be in the end."

Sonata Arctica are starting the tour in Sweden, but will only be joined by Thunderstone on the four Finnish events. Meanwhile, Thunderstone are finalising preparations for a European tour co-headlining with.


text:
Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with Green candidate Marion Schaffer, Oakville

September 24, 2007 Marion Schaffer is running for the Green Party of Ontario in the Ontario provincial election, in the Oakville riding. Wikinews' Nick Moreau interviewed her regarding her values, her experience, and her campaign.

Stay tuned for further interviews; every candidate from every party is eligible, and will be contacted. Expect interviews from Liberals, Progressive Conservatives, New Democratic Party members, Ontario Greens, as well as members from the Family Coalition, Freedom, Communist, Libertarian, and Confederation of Regions parties, as well as independents.

Interview
'''Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? Why did you choose to run in this constituency?'''
 * I joined the Green Party in Oakville because that’s where I choose to live now, close to family. I’ve never been a party member before. The Green Party is the only internationally connected party which is ready, and able, to take positive action to clean up our world. It was essential for me to join and start doing my part in the redesigning of the future.

'''What prior political experience do you have? What skills and insight can you bring to office, from other non-political positions you may have held?'''
 * I think it's a good thing that I have had no prior political experience; the Green Party is re-inventing the word 'politician'.

'''Which of your competitors do you expect to pose the biggest challenge to your candidacy? Why?'''
 * Many people distrust today's politicians. They are seen as people who talk but do not listen; as people who promise but do not deliver on those promises. The Green Party is developing leaders who will be advocates working in partnership with people everywhere to heal our over-stressed world.

What makes you the most desirable of all candidates running in the riding?
 * I have functioned as a: speaker/leader/guide/advocate/feminist/pacifist/teacher/pastor in previous careers and I am not afraid of any opponents because I intend to follow the example of our Green Party Federal leader, Elizabeth May, and always speak the truth to the best of my knowledge.

'''What do you feel are the three most important issues to voters in your riding? Are these the same top three issues that are most important to you? What would you do to address these issues?'''
 * In my opinion the three most important issues here in Oakville are:
 * a. controlling urban sprawl
 * b. preserving what we have in a fiscally responsible way
 * c. educating local people so that they conserve energy, support local industry, but think globally.

 * These goals reflect Green Party policy.

 * I will use all possible resources of The Green Party of Ontario to promote these ends and as well, day by day, change the way I live. I must lead by example and walk the walk or I can't say that I am Green.

 * I am part of local environmental groups fighting to control development and conserve green space. I give financial support to The Sierra Club, The Council of Canadians, Amnesty International, and The David Suzuki Foundation. I support women’s shelters and palliative care centers. I utilize alternative remedies to safeguard my own health. I write letters to politicians at all levels of government to speak against unwise decisions.

 * But, I am determined to be a less wasteful consumer.

 * Here are some examples of changes I am making:

 * I avoid driving out of Oakville for services of any kind (e.g. dentist, doctor, eye specialist, therapy, auto repair, shopping, beauty salon, rec centre, library, etc.).
 * I take GO train to attend events in the GTA.
 * I belong to, and support, local organizations which are striving to achieve similar goals and am striving to become a part of local groups to make new friends here.
 * In every possible way I am using less and less power in my home (e.g. state-of-the-art furnace and AC system, “green” lights, thermostats, using less water, unplugging appliances and using only energy saving appliances, etc.).

 * This list is just a small sample of the many, many things I know I need to do in order to help save our planet.

What should be the first order of business in the 39th Legislative Assembly?
 * The first order of business in the 39th Legislative Assembly should be to declare to the people of Ontario that everyone in the house must pledge to work together to assure a clean environment for all species on our planet and a sustainable future for our children.

Are the property taxes in your riding at a fair level for the amount of services received in the municipality?
 * I think Oakville taxes are where they should be; we are served well.

How can the province lead the way in stimulating job creation?
 * As far as stimulating new jobs is concerned Ontario should work at creating “green jobs”, that is jobs which will allow our province to manufacture fuel-efficient vehicles, wind turbines, better public transit, sustainable agriculture and forestry, eco-tourism, energy-efficient materials and construction. I think we should pay for what we burn, not what we earn. All these ideas have been put forward in the Green Party of Ontario platform paper.

What are your views on the mixed member proportional representation (MMP) referendum?
 * We will have a more participatory democracy if we change the way we vote and adopt Mixed Member Proportional representation. Government of the people, for the people, by the people is the cornerstone of Green Party policy.

'''What role, if any, does “new media” play in your campaign, and the campaign of your party? (websites, blogs, Facebook, YouTube videos, etc) Do you view it as beneficial, or a challenge?'''
 * The new media does not figure greatly in my campaign; face-to-face dialogue is more important to the Green Party. As well, not everyone can afford to have internet service nor do they have the time to surf the web. However I wish that all citizens of Ontario would take the time to go on-line to: www.gov.on.ca. By doing so every person would know exactly when our leaders are being fiscally responsible and, likewise, when they are letting us down.

'''Of the decisions made by Ontario's 38th Legislative Assembly, which was the most beneficial to your this electoral district? To the province as a whole? Which was least beneficial, or even harmful, to your this riding? To the province as a whole?'''
 * By going through this exercise myself I have come to the conclusion that the best thing Ontario’s 38th Legislative Assembly did was to dedicate a Ministry of Health Promotion to advocate healthy living and programs that prevent illness and promote wellness. The Green Party is very keen to promote prevention in the area of health care in order to save millions to say nothing of heading off the advance of our current cancer epidemic.

 * One of the least helpful choices of this same Assembly was that of continuing to allow Separate School funding in this province despite the condemnation of the UN Human Rights Committee twice (in 1999 and 2005) for violating the equality of its own citizens by funding Roman Catholic schools but NOT schools of other religions. We must have only ONE school system: the public school system.

 * We need to build tolerance as well as establish progressive social policies; we must widen the opportunity for every citizen to participate in democracy.

 * The Green Party believes very strongly in ALL these principles.


text:
Talk:Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with Green candidate Marion Schaffer, Oakville

Why I am a Green Party member and candidate.

I joined the Green Party in Oakville because that’s where I choose to live now, close to family. I’ve never been a party member before. The Green Party is the only internationally connected party which is ready, and able, to take positive action to clean up our world. It was essential for me to join and start doing my part in the redesigning of the future.

I think it’s a good thing that I have had no prior political experience; the Green Party is re-inventing the word ‘politician’.

Many people distrust today’s politicians. They are seen as people who talk but do not listen; as people who promise but do not deliver on those promises. The Green Party is developing leaders who will be advocates working in partnership with people everywhere to heal our over-stressed world.

I have functioned as a: speaker/leader/guide/advocate/feminist/pacifist/teacher/pastor in previous careers and I am not afraid of any opponents because I intend to follow the example of our Green Party Federal leader, Elizabeth May, and always speak the truth to the best of my knowledge.

In my opinion the three most important issues here in Oakville are:

a. controlling urban sprawl

b. preserving what we have in a fiscally responsible way

c. educating local people so that they conserve energy, support local industry, but think globally.

These goals reflect Green Party policy.

I will use all possible resources of The Green Party of Ontario to promote these ends and as well, day by day, change the way I live. I must lead by example and walk the walk or I can’t say that I am Green.

I am part of local environmental groups fighting to control development and conserve green space. I give financial support to The Sierra Club, The Council of Canadians, Amnesty International, and The David Suzuki Foundation. I support women’s shelters and palliative care centers. I utilize alternative remedies to safeguard my own health. I write letters to politicians at all levels of government to speak against unwise decisions.

But, I am determined to be a less wasteful consumer.

Here are some examples of changes I am making:

1.

I avoid driving out of Oakville for services of any kind (e.g. dentist, doctor, eye specialist, therapy, auto repair, shopping, beauty salon, rec centre, library, etc.). 2.

I take GO train to attend events in the GTA. 3.

I belong to, and support, local organizations which are striving to achieve similar goals and am striving to become a part of local groups to make new friends here. 4.

In every possible way I am using less and less power in my home (e.g. state-of-the-art furnace and AC system, “green” lights, thermostats, using less water, unplugging appliances and using only energy saving appliances, etc.).

This list is just a small sample of the many, many things I know I need to do in order to help save our planet.

The first order of business in the 39th Legislative Assembly should be to declare to the people of Ontario that everyone in the house must pledge to work together to assure a clean environment for all species on our planet and a sustainable future for our children.

I think Oakville taxes are where they should be; we are served well. As far as stimulating new jobs is concerned Ontario should work at creating “green jobs”, that is jobs which will allow our province to manufacture fuel-efficient vehicles, wind turbines, better public transit, sustainable agriculture and forestry, eco-tourism, energy-efficient materials and construction. I think we should pay for what we burn, not what we earn. All these ideas have been put forward in the Green Party of Ontario platform paper.

We will have a more participatory democracy if we change the way we vote and adopt Mixed Member Proportional representation. Government of the people, for the people, by the people is the cornerstone of Green Party policy.

The new media does not figure greatly in my campaign; face-to-face dialogue is more important to the Green Party. As well, not everyone can afford to have internet service nor do they have the time to surf the web. However I wish that all citizens of Ontario would take the time to go on-line to: www.gov.on.ca. By doing so every person would know exactly when our leaders are being fiscally responsible and, likewise, when they are letting us down.

By going through this exercise myself I have come to the conclusion that the best thing Ontario’s 38th Legislative Assembly did was to dedicate a Ministry of Health Promotion to advocate healthy living and programs that prevent illness and promote wellness. The Green Party is very keen to promote prevention in the area of health care in order to save millions to say nothing of heading off the advance of our current cancer epidemic.

One of the least helpful choices of this same Assembly was that of continuing to allow Separate School funding in this province despite the condemnation of the UN Human Rights Committee twice (in 1999 and 2005) for violating the equality of its own citizens by funding Roman Catholic schools but NOT schools of other religions. We must have only ONE school system: the public school system.

We need to build tolerance as well as establish progressive social policies; we must widen the opportunity for every citizen to participate in democracy.

The Green Party believes very strongly in ALL these principles.

Marion Schaffer

Green Party of Ontario Candidate

Oakville Riding


text:
Iranian President Ahmadinejad speaks at Columbia University

September 25, 2007 Invited to participate in a debate at during his visit to New York City this week to address the United Nations, Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad engaged University president  on a number of topics, including his country's human rights record, opinions on Israel and the Holocaust and the role of nuclear weapons and terrorism on the global stage. The Iranian president's speech was marked by protests, but also drew applause from students.

Bollinger opened the debate addressing critics, stating that "To those who believe that this event should never have happened, that it is inappropriate for the university to conduct such an event, I want to say that I understand your perspective and respect it as reasonable...it is an experiment, as all life is an experiment. This is the right thing to do and indeed, it is required by the existing norms of free speech"

Bollinger then gave his opening address, turning to Ahmadinejad and stating:

Mr. President, you exhibit all the signs of a petty and cruel dictator, and so I ask you, why have, members of the, and so many of our academic colleagues become targets of persecution in your country?"

"Why do you support well-documented terrorist organizations that continue to strike at peace and democracy in the Middle East, destroying lives and the civil society of the region? Frankly, and in all candor Mr. President, I doubt that you will have the intellectual courage to answer these questions, but your avoiding them will in itself be meaningful to us. I do expect you to exhibit the fanatical mind-set that characterizes what you say and do.

After reciting the and asking for guidance from God, Ahmadinejad countered that "In Iran, tradition requires that when we invite a person to be a speaker, we actually respect our students and the professors by allowing them to make their own judgment and we don’t think it’s necessary before the speech is even given to come in with a series of claims..."

Ahmadinejad's most pointed arguments, though, were directed at the administration of George W. Bush. "They do not respect the privacy of their own people. They tap telephone calls … They create an insecure psychological atmosphere, in order to justify their war-mongering acts in different parts of the world."

The Iranian president attacked what he considered to be errors of American imperialism. "By using precise scientific methods and planning, they begin their onslaught on the domestic cultures of nations, which are the result of thousands of years of interaction, creativity and artistic activity. They try to eliminate these cultures in order to strip people of their identity."

Ahmadinejad questioned U.S. nuclear policy. "Making nuclear, chemical and biological bombs and weapons of mass destruction is yet another result of the misuse of science and research by the big powers." He added, "Without the cooperation of certain scientists and scholars, we would not have witnessed production of different nuclear, chemical and biological weapons. Are these weapons to protect global security? What can a perpetual nuclear umbrella achieve for the sake of humanity? If nuclear war is waged between nuclear powers, what human catastrophe will take place?" In a rebuttal to claims that his country oppressed women and homosexuals, Ahmadinejad responded by claiming "It is wrong for some governments, when they disagree with another government, to...spread lies", pointing to the fact that over 50% of Iranian voters are female, and the two female Vice Presidents. When challenged by Bollinger for he stated that "In Iran we don't have homosexuals like in your country," drawing laughter from the audience. "In Iran we do not have this phenomenon, I don't know who has told you that we have it."

He framed as stifled academic debate: "Right now, there are a number of European academics who have been sent to prison because they attempted to write about the Holocaust or research it from a different perspective, questioning certain aspects of it," later adding that "you shouldn't ask me why I'm asking questions, you should ask yourselves why you...want to stop. Do you ever take what is known as absolute in physics? We had principles in mathematics that were granted to be absolute for over 800 years, but new science has...gone forward."

The first question from the audience addressed the controversial issue of the leader's position on Israel. Ahmadinejad did not directly respond to the subject of Israel - stating "We love all nations. We love the Jewish people. There are many Jews living in Iran, with peace and security.", and concluded that it was not a question of Israel's right to exist, but of Palestinian self-determination.

Countering claims that his country supports terrorism, he replied, "We’re a cultured nation. We don’t need to resort to terrorism. We’ve been victims of terrorism ourselves. It’s regrettable that people who argued they are fighting terrorism — instead of supporting the Iranian nation — are supporting the terrorists and then turn the finger at us."

The final question from the audience asked whether Iran would engage in talks with the United States, to which he replied "If the U.S. government recognizes the rights of the Iranian people, respects all nations and extends a hand of friendship to all Iranians, they will see that Iranians will be among their best friends."

In closing, Ahmadinejad extended gratitude and thanks to the University, and welcomed both students and faculty to attend Iranian universities and give lectures themselves to the students.


text:
70,000 General Motors employees go on strike

September 24, 2007 73,000 United Auto Workers (UAW) union members launched a nationwide strike today against General Motors (GM), the largest auto manufacturer in the United States.

UAW President Ron Gettelfinger said GM would need to meet pay, health care, and job security issues. Gettelfinge said, "This is nothing we wanted...No one benefits in a strike. But there comes a point where someone can push you off a cliff. That's what happened here."

The strike was officially launched at 11 a.m. EDT (UTC-4) today.

Negotiations were reportedly going to occur again this afternoon, but there have been no reports of any negotiating going on from either side.

80 facilities in 30 different states closed today because of the strike.

CNN reports that GM facilities in Mexico and Canada may close soon, too.

The vice president of global vehicle forecasts for CSM Worldwide, Michael Robinet, said today that dealerships in the US likely won't feel the effects of the strike for several weeks.

A statement from GM today said, "We are disappointed in the UAW's decision to call a national strike. The bargaining involved complex, difficult issues that affect the job security of our U.S. work force, and the long-term viability of the company. We are fully committed to working with the UAW to develop solutions together to address the competitive challenges facing General Motors. We will continue focusing our efforts on reaching an agreement as soon as possible."

If the strike continues, UAW strike funds will supply each striker with US$200 a month and medical coverage.


text:
Wikinews:Dynamic quiz/quiz/2007/40

Welcome to the Wikinews World News Quiz, giving you a chance to test your knowledge on this week's news.

Last Updated: September 30, 2007

Quiz
{Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad spoke at Columbia University while visiting New York City this week. What was the President doing in New York City? - He was there to visit Ground Zero + He was there to address the United Nations General Assembly - He was there to visit Iran's embassy - He was there to receive an honorary doctorate
 * type=""}
 * See Iranian President Ahmadinejad speaks at Columbia University and Protests mark Ahmadinejad's visit to Columbia University

{In Australia, Prime Minister John Howard received criticism from different sides for his proposal to set national targets for... ? - Employment - Taxes - Aid to farmers + Clean energy
 * type=""}
 * See John Howard sets green energy targets and Australian Greens attack government green energy target

{In Myanmar, the military regime used violence against peaceful protests by Buddhist monks. What sparked these pro-democracy protests one month ago? - The detention of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Daw Aung San Suu Kyi - A new curfew installed by the authorities - The death of a Japanese journalist + An increase in fuel prices
 * type=""}
 * See At least 9 protesters killed, 11 wounded in Myanmar

{Born in 1923, this entertainer died September 23. Who was it? - Hank Williams, singer/songwriter - Don Adams, actor (Get Smart) + Marcel Marceau, mime - Victoria de los Angeles, soprano
 * type=""}
 * See Mime Marcel Marceau dies at age 84

{Canada was able to announce a budget surplus of C$ 13.8 billion, which equals how many per cent of the country's gross domestic product? + 1% - 2% - 3% - 4%
 * type=""}
 * See Canada posts record $14 billion budget surplus

{Media reports in South Africa claimed that a warrant had been released for the arrest of Jackie Selebi. Who is Jackie Selebi? - President of South Africa - President of the South African National Prosecuting Authority + President of Interpol - President of the African National Congress party
 * type=""}
 * See Media reports: arrest warrant issued for Jackie Selebi, President of Interpol

{A 15-year-old Russian boy this week survived... + A flight of 1,300 kilometres in a wheel well of a Boeing 737 - 108 stings from a scorpion - A fall of 7 stories from a children's hospital - Being locked for more than two days in a sauna of 80°C (176 °F)
 * type=""}
 * See Boy survives flight in wheel well of Boeing 737

{Which video game broke opening day records this week? - Age of Empires III + Halo 3 - Final Fantasy XII - Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare
 * type=""}
 * See "Halo 3" creates new opening day record

{11 new species of life were recently discovered. Where were they discovered? - Norway + Vietnam - China - Brazil
 * type=""}
 * See Scientists discover 11 new species of life in Vietnam

{A baby was born in Russia. How much did it weigh? - 2.2kg (4.8 lbs) - 3.3kg (7.2 lbs) - 5.5kg (12.1 lbs) + 7.7kg (16.9 lbs)
 * type=""}
 * See 17-pound baby born in Russia

 * Now you've finished the quiz, why don't you post your score on the talk page

title: Wikinews:Dynamic quiz/quiz/2007/40


text:
User talk:68.104.89.50

Welcome
Welcome!

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Student questioning Senator Kerry is tasered
Your comments have been removed twice from this article. Add comments here instead. It's a page for adding comments, they will not be deleted there. Happy editing.  —Fellow Wiki  Newsie 23:20, 24 September 2007 (UTC)

No, the removal of your edits do not exemplify anything of that nature. You should post them here instead: Talk:Student questioning Senator Kerry is tasered/Comments --SVTCobra 23:21, 24 September 2007 (UTC)

title: User talk:68.104.89.50


text:
Delaware State University shooting suspect arrested

September 24, 2007 18-year-old, Loyer D. Braden, who is being accused of shooting two Delaware State University students was arrested today by police.

Braden has been charged with a gun charge, assault and reckless endangerment and attempted murder in connection with the shooting of two students on September 21, 2007, in Dover, Delaware, United States.

Braden is currently being held on US$60,000 secure bond and was ordered to stay away from the victims and the University if bail is granted.

Nathaniel Pugh III and Shalita Middleton, both 17-year-old students at the University, were injured by the attack on Friday. Pugh was shot in the ankle, while Middelton was shot twice in the abdomen.

Court documents also say that Braden fired at a third student, James Richmond.

Braden responded to questions by the media by saying "I'm sorry." And, when asked what exactly he was sorry for, he replied, "She's in the hospital."