There are many important issues current at any given time. Some of them are very complex and/or highly contentious like the ongoing crisis in the middle East, and the "global economic crisis". The issues below are ones that are of particular or immediate concern to me, and range from Local to global. I hope you find my comments of interest.
While I welcome constructive and respectful criticism, and/ or comments, all others will be ignored.
A Bad Time for readers
Although not as bad as initially forecasted, cuts to the 2010 budget for Vancouver Public libraries will mean fewer books and library Services. And now the news that Duthie books, Vancouver's number one Canadian Independent Bookstore is closing - Press Release -
It was a bit of a shock to learn that Duthie Books was closing. It always seems so busy when I drop in (usually a couple times a month). For that reason, and the sense of loyalty I felt among the many of us who shopped at Duthie Books, I had thought it was one of the few independents remaining that would endure.
Like many others, I will miss Duthie Books, their awesome staff, and great selection of Canadian Literature. And unless we all make an even greater effort to support the few remaining Canadian Independent book sellers (like Blackberry Books on Granville Island), they will be gone soon.
"Books are lighthouses erected in the great sea of time”.
Edwin P. Whipple (American author and lecturer 1819-1886) ...
New Books
"Who Owns the Arctic?" - An important and timely new book by Michael Byers. I encourage you to join Thomas Berger, Stephen Toope and Michael at the Vancouver launch of his book on Wednesday, October 21, 7-9 PM at the Fairmont Social Lounge, St. John’s College, UBC. For a great excerpt from the book, or information from the publishers go to:
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/technology/Arctic+world/2114280/story.html
http://www.dmpibooks.com/book/who-owns-the-arctic
Cease Fire - www.ceasefire.ca
How I am responding to the "support the troops", and "prayers for our soldiers" e-cards and letters that family and friends send me...
The Middle East
End the Occupation and Violence in Israel-Palestine
Privatization
Water - a right - not a commodity
