2006 federal election - episode 3

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Warehouse Election Central


Christmas, Christmas time is here, time for toys and time to jeer...

But seriously, we've reached the holiday lull. Not much news, as everyone gears up for the January dash. Yer humble newsdesk editor admits to having barely touched a paper the past few days. Call this episode the equivalent of TV talking heads nattering about nothing. Humble readers can discuss the merits of whether Jack Layton will shave his 'stache for charity.

Meanwhile, there are areas where parties are attempting to monopolize public corners with their signs. Case in point: drive into Guelph, Ontario along any of the main roads leading into the city and you will face an onslaught of Christian Heritage Party signs. The CHP had the only visible sign on the grounds of the University of Guelph, unless the NE corner of Stone and Gordon is considered city property. One imagines how well this will go down with students on campus (except maybe the Campus Crusade for Christ).

Surfing The Seas of Small Parties
Over on the Canadian Action Party site, you'll be welcomed by an animated introduction featuring less-than-stellar caricatures of the four main leaders. Harper and Duceppe look like young and old versions of actor Michael Murphy (Nashville, This Is Wonderland), Layton looks like a wide-eyed monkey doll and the Pinocchio nose on Martin comes off much dirtier than we suspect they intended.

The CAP also lays claim to the candidate-name-we-couldn't-make-up-if-we-tried for this campaign: Spurgeon Westhaver (London-Fanshawe).

1979 Election Update
Notes from Apr 23/79 issue of Macleans...
Pierre Trudeau told a gathering of Calgary oil men "I'm a rather gentle fellow, and I only fight with those who fight with me" while promising support of a new pipeline to the US. Also proposed a hike in home insulation subsidies on pre-1961 homes, from $350 to $500.

Joe Clark attacked Trudeau as "a man who attacks the people of this country while we attack the problems." Backs a mortgage deduction scheme.

Ed Broadbent indicated that a three-way television debate was necessary "to see how we react under pressure". Called Clark "a joker".

Fabien Roy received a "between the lines" endorsement from Quebec premier Rene Levesque.

Elsewhere around the world: the horrifying reign of Idi Amin came to an end in Uganda...Coming Home dominated the Oscars, with awards going to stars Jon Voight and Jane Fonda... - JB

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