Perspectives

This past month has to have been one of the toughest for people earning the minimum wage.

If Mike, Leno and Letterman can do this, why not offer my predictions? So here are my 2004 predictions, from the mundane to the serious, my tongue firmly planted in cheek.

The struggle between the South Shore Restoule Snowmobile Club and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans is a perfect example of Government run amok.

It’s that time of year when Christians celebrate their second most important religious holiday. The merchants have been promoting the Christmas sales for at least two months and will make one final effort on Boxing Day to improve their bottom lines.

Another story about people abandoning unwanted cats and kittens in the country prompted this column about a cat I know. A friend has a small furry house pet ( felis catus ) that she calls Felix.

I was speaking with an acquaintance the other day and she commented how she enjoyed a trip to the Casino. As usual, she came away a winner. In fact, I have never heard her say that she lost money. Sometimes she says she ‘broke even’.

The November 25 announcement by the Minister of Energy was a first step in bringing stability to Ontario’s electricity system. The changes should encourage investment that will assure long-term supply of electricity for Ontario.

I hereby offer my services to North Bay Council as a secret agent. I will work undercover to solve their budget woes. I will fill their coffers to overflowing.

Much has been said about the privatization of public services in the past Provincial and Municipal elections. With new councils about to begin budget reviews, it may be timely to look again at contracting.

The frightening acrid stench of mustard gas has almost dissipated from Granddad’s foggy mind. He is one of the few old men who remain of those who struggled stupidly for King and Country through the boot-sucking mud of the Great War.