Monthly Archives: March 2011
Charles Fort, Kinsale – Ireland
Mosaic of Charles Fort, Kinsale, Ireland
A view of the ruins
View of the Harbour
The design reminded me of a family vacation of Fort Lunenburg, Nova Scotia.
We must preserve our local sites, as we are quickly losing values of the past that make rural Newfoundland & Labrador unique. Deep Cove Winter Housing site and Flower’s Island are two examples within a 25km radius of my home. It is time to ensure History is preserved and the
- More Ruins
story-told appropriately.
Related Articles
- A Day Trip to Countryside near Kinsale (hotelscork.wordpress.com)
- Where are our Local Farmer’s Markets? (liveruralnl.com)
- Traveling means to me – Kinsale, Ireland (travelpod.com)
Increases in 2011 NL Crab Price are long overdue
I just tuned in to the NTV First Edition only to hear FFAW President, Earle McCurdy present some good news for fishers.
It was pretty exciting to hear that the crab processors and the Union were able to agree upon a price of $2.15 per pound to start the 2011 season. This represents an 80 cent per pound increase from last year, which was set by a pricing panel at $1.35 per pound and resulted in much dispute among fishers and processors, with both sides still at odds.
The crab season is set to open next week. It may be the first year in many that it starts without delay. This significant increase will allow fishers to earn more revenue. This will help offset additional operating costs and also take care of some short-term debts that have accumulated due to increased operating costs, coupled with lower prices and a shortened season.
This is a good sign for the rural economy, as more dollars can be spent and re-invested locally. Let us all hope that this is an indication for prices in other fish species and that 2011 can be a banner year, where the value of fish landings will exceed $1 Billion for the provincial economy.
Here on the Great Northern Peninsula, the fishery remains the backbone of our economy. More attention is needed to ensure future success. It is important to remember that we are all stakeholders of this valuable resource. More control of the resource should be managed at a more localized-level, instead of managed by large corporations, concerned more about their profit, shipping product from the peninsula and less about the human and community economic element.
Live Rural NL 0
Christopher Mitchelmore
Related Articles
- N.L. crab prices up (cbc.ca)
Canadian Learning Passport – Liberal Election Announcement
For more than a year I worked with volunteers and also delivered Junior Achievement programs to local high school students to facilitate the “Economics for Success” program. It teaches grade nine students many lifelong lessons. They consider their skills, talents, values; dream careers; budget; practise interview skills and even get a job with a salary. They certainly learn the value of a post-secondary education from the occupations provided as the incomes are much higher than entry-level positions.
I grew up in a rural community, wanting to pursue opportunities that were not available to my parents. I always dreamed of working in Europe and exploring parts unknown. Little did I know that in 2007 these dreams would become a reality as I lived and worked in Europe, travelling to 25 countries. My parents supported my sister and I. They believed that they should do all they could to assist us through a post-secondary education. At the age of 13 I lost my father (the breadwinner), this left my mother with a significant challenge of being a single parent without meaningful employment, yet still wanting to provide for her child.
I graduated high school like many students, faced with a tough decisions of whether to enter the workforce, obtain a post-secondary education, or neither. I was terrified of the high debt load I would accumulate having to move away from my rural community to live in the city, pay rent, utilities, groceries, tuition, books and other living costs. It is a scary reality. Many of my peers also choose this route, while others did not – a limiting factor could be the debt burden upon graduation. Five years in the workplace, gives them valuable work experience, seniority and income without the debt. This sounds wonderful, but most of these individuals have to move away from their friends and family.
How can a student graduating with $50,000 in debt after 5 years of post-secondary get ahead? Students are crippled with debt repayment that could range in $400-600 a month for a period of 9 years. How can one afford a car? rent? a home? or support a family? I opted to work part-time jobs throughout the school year and work multiple jobs during the four-month summer break.
Post-secondary education costs must be reduced to ensure that Canadian debt load is more affordable. The Provincial Government of Newfoundland & Labrador has made great strides in making education more affordable. They have continued a tuition freeze. Memorial University has the second-lowest tuition in the country, with some universities in Quebec posting nominally lower rates. Moreover, the provincial government has implemented up-front grants as part of the Students Loan Program, reduces the NL portion of the student loan debt for those completing their program within the appropriate timeframe and eliminating the interest on the NL portion of the student loan. The Provincial Government should be commended for investing in our education.
It is time for the Canadian Government to take a similar approach – wake up and smell the coffee. It appears that Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff‘s election announcement of the Canadian Learning Passport is a step in the right direction to make post-secondary education more affordable for all Canadians which promised $1,000 per year for up to 4 years for all Canadians and $1,500 for individuals from low-income families (up to $6,000). The program is estimated to invest $1 billion annually in the future generations. This investment will have tremendous long-term benefits for all Canada.
The Canadian economy needs to continue to produce educated and innovative individuals to further stimulate new economic growth for the future. I would like to be informed of the stance relating to education policy from other major political parties.
I have paid the price of a post-secondary education, and regard the education as worth every penny. I certainly encourage more youth to choose to obtain a post-secondary education and to also get out and vote. The 18-29 demographic, historically yields low-voter turnout. We need to stand up and be connected and have a stronger voice for matters that affect Canadian families.
Live Rural NL 0
Christopher Mitchelmore
Related Articles
- Students to get $1,000 annually under Liberal learning plan (canada.com)
- Liberals promise students $1,000/year for higher education (calgaryherald.com)
- Liberals to pitch education plan (cbc.ca)
- Election 2011: Ignatieff announces post-secondary education plan (news.nationalpost.com)
Transition Towns?…the future for Rural Newfoundland
Reasonables....it's all about the name.
Kinsale, the town of just over 2,200 people is the first Transition Town in Ireland. A community-based group, supported by Kinsale town council looks to manage local resources and find sustainable solutions to the challenges of peak oil and climate change. Public meetings are held on the third Thursday of every month. They take a number of guides from an energy plan, which has led to the creation of Transition Towns worldwide, even as far-reaching as Canada.
I first heard of Transition Towns from my friend Emanuele, at the time a member of the Emerging Leaders Committee of cCEDnet. She had spoken of Guelph, Canada as one of the transition towns that is looking at environmental and social issues, and aims to limit the dependency on oil.
We can transition to a future beyond fossil fuels, one that is more vibrant and resilient; ultimately one that is preferable to the present. Our current Provincial Government stresses that we must wean ourselves from our over dependency on oil. These revenues may be filling the public purse in the short-term; however, we need longer term strategies. The government wishes to create Hydro-electricity from the Muskrat Falls project and displace Bunker C oil burned to create electricity from the Holyrood Generating Station. The Town of St. Anthony is exploring wind energy as a means to become more competitive to attract industry and lower energy costs.
Community Garden
Community gardens have become an initiative of transition towns. Food security has always been an issue for residents of Newfoundland & Labrador. My grandparents generation practised sustainable living, by growing their own produce and raising farm animals. We are experiencing a trend in rural regions, where more people are exploring gardening. The concept of a community garden would help address food security issues. We should produce and grow more locally.
The community-groups are accomplishing their goals by inspiring, encouraging and supporting others to transition the community.
Rural areas are no exception. Let’s ensure that 2011 is the year you garden, grow more local and work with others to create a community garden. This is a very reasonable suggestion to ensure brighter futures for the Great Northern Peninsula.
Live Rural NL 0
Christopher Mitchelmore
Related Articles
- Totnes: Britain’s town of the future (guardian.co.uk)
- Review: Localisation and Resilience by Rob Hopkins (energybulletin.net)
Where are our Local Farmer’s Markets?
Kinsale, Ireland
After a walk through the enchanted forest we took the Hyundai Getz to the coast. A one-hour drive on very narrow roads led us to Kinsale, Ireland.
Fishy Fishy Cafe
Stone-baked pizza at the Kinsale Market
the vendors.
Related Articles
- Don’t forget your local Farmer’s Market! (centralvalleylinks.com)
- VIDEO: Land & Sea goes to the farmers’ market (cbc.ca)
- Farmers Markets: Hubs for Entrepreneurs (managemymarket.com)
- Experiencing the Newfoundland – Ireland Connection (liveruralnl.com)
- A quiet evening at the Pub – Cork, Ireland (liveruralnl.com)
Celebrating 100…A walk through the Enchanted Forest
I bet this tree is more than 100 years old...
This post celebrates my 100th article on the Live Rural NL blog…which debuted in June 20, 2010. It has been a wonderful opportunity to share with my readers my take on local culture, heritage, share recipes from grandma’s kitchen and provide some local photos of the scenic beauty of the breathtaking Great Northern Peninsula.
I have recently also began sharing some recent travel experiences to France and Ireland. During November 2010, my mom and I spent time connecting with the Irish culture, which for many rural Newfoundlanders & Labradorians would have immigrated.
Dolmen (Methalithic Tomb)
We spent the rest of the morning on Tuesday, walking through the enchanted forest at Rock Close.
Druid's Cave
There was something magical about the place, as you made a wish after climbing the wishing steps. The ancient trees of the forests were something out of a storybook. It was quite interesting to see unique plants and pass a druid’s cave. I had the opportunity of visiting Stonehenge, England in 2007.
I enjoyed the druid’s cave and the witches kitchen. As well as the many photo opportunities with the old growth forest. I even got to practise framing.
Ireland, like this beautiful province has many outdoor attractions. Take some time to appreciate what is in your backyard.
Framing my Mum from Inside the Cave
Live Rural NL 0
Christopher Mitchelmore
Related Articles
- Druids Vow to Protect England’s Forests (druidcircle.wordpress.com)
- What is Druidism (brighthub.com)
I Kissed the Blarney Stone – Blarney, Ireland
Blarney Castle
An early rise on Tuesday led us to Blarney. We walked around the Town, seeing a bird sanctuary, churches, Blarney Mills Shopping Center and of course Blarney Castle. The morning was crisp, but the walkways were “just beautiful”, as Mom would often state. The flowers, trees and water views were pretty impressive en route to the castle.
Mom braves the Poison Garden as we wait for the castle to open for viewing. It was interesting to learn about the different herbs and plants that are dangerous when consumed or if one comes in direct contact. I thought this was a nice value-added feature of this tourist attraction.
I kissed the Blarney Stone!
After walking the narrow stairways we reached the top. Wall panels noted the difference between Blarney & Baloney:
Baloney: Is when you tell a 50 year old she looks 18,
Blarney: Is when you ask a women how old she is, because you want to know what age women are most beautiful.
Kissing the blarney stone, apparently gives you the gift of eloquence. In fact, Winston Churchill kissed the blarney stone and was an outstanding orator.
The View from Above
I kissed the Blarney Stone. Now, I have ensured to have the gift of gab, if I had not previously mastered it. Imagine the droves of people that come from all over the world each year to kiss this stone.
Take the time to enjoy the views, castle and surrounding gardens.
Live Rural NL 0
Christopher Mitchelmore
Related Articles
- Kissing the Blarney Stone – Blarney, Ireland (travelpod.com)
- A Little More Blarney (karmandcheruscii.wordpress.com)
A quiet evening at the Pub – Cork, Ireland
The Corner House The decor
The decor
Enjoying a Pint of Beamish!
Another Pub...one promoting Guinness
Good music, good grub, good company and good drink in a comfortable space. It is time for Rural Newfoundland & Labrador to embrace pub culture. Pubs feel like a local kitchen party, once a common past-time. The local lounge, club and bar should consider adapting to be more generationally friendly, especially with a rural aging population.
Related Articles
- Ireland’s Pubs Becoming Endangered Species (newser.com)
- Ireland – Cork, Ireland (travelpod.com)
- Travel Cork (hotelscork.wordpress.com)
Fisheries M.O.U. – Send your feedback to CURRA for its upcoming newsletter
The Community-University Recovery and Research Alliance (CURRA) based at Bonne Bay Marine Station, Norris Point has been working on a number of projects, primarily with those impacted by the closure of the cod fishery.
Recently, the Provincial Government commissioned a Fisheries M.O.U., which calls for a $450 million from government to re-structure the fishery and reduce the harvesters by up to 80 percent. Fisheries Minister, Clyde Jackman basically has sent it back to the drawing board as government isn’t prepared to make this investment to re-structure. It may not be necessarily the best approach.
I am deeply concerned. Our Rural economies can have a successful future in the fishery – If the local regions had greater control of the resources, the rural economies would reap greater benefits. One only has to compare the Fogo Island Fisheries Co-operative. It has been highly successful for fishers, plant workers and local members/shareholders of the co-op. Last year, this co-operative was the only processor willing to pay $1.35 /lb for crab, where other larger processers claimed the price was far too high. Being community-minded held it dispelled from ASP.
Newfoundland and Labrador’s fishery today is still too monopolistic, which enables a few processors to reap all benefits at the expense of the rural economy. We need fishers and others to speak up and ensure that rural economies reap maximum benefits from local resources.
You opportunity to do so is through CURRA’s Newsletter. See email below:
Hello folks,The CURRA newsletter will be coming out in early April. The deadline for submissions is March 31. I encourage you to send me short items for insertion in the newsletter. Suggestions for items: Upcoming community and academic events, brief descriptions of research, comments on the MOU or fishing issues in your area. Items will be edited for brevity. All photos are welcome. Anita BestComment on the MOU at http://www.curra.ca/fishery_MOU.htm ============================= Anita Best
Community Coordinator
CURRABonne Bay Marine Station PO Box 69, Norris Point, NL A0K 3V0 Telephone: 709-458-3014 Fax: 709-458-2605 Mobile: 709-458-8403email: abest@mun.ca website: http://www.curra.ca
One must speak up to help create a wave of change for a brighter future in our local fisheries.
Live Rural NL-
Christopher Mitchelmore
My First Traditional Hooked Rug…
I have been taking a rug hooking course that concluded this past Thursday, which was offered at Flower’s Cove through the College of the North Atlantic‘s general interest course offerings.
Over 5 weeks, I was able to learn the process and get guidance, support and share some laughter with my classmates. There is something wonderful about adult learning. Even as adults, we are not to old to learn, to complain, to question and to open our minds and be amazed at our own abilities.
Below is an image of the completed hooked portion of my mat.
My First Hooked Rug
During the last class, I was very hesitant to get started. I really detest sewing. After cutting the edges of the burlap and ironing the back of the mat I began folding the edges and started sewing. Well the instructor, help get me started around the difficult corner. I know I will never be a seamstress, but I hope to finish sewing the edges of the mat to allow me to proudly hang it on my wall. I have one more side to complete and a few others before it is finished. I will take some photos and show you the completed project in one final post.
I have received my Certificate from the College of North Atlantic for completing 15 hours of traditional mat hooking. It is re-affirmation that youth can learn traditions of our ancestors and pass them on to others.
Live Rural NL 0
Christopher Mitchelmore
Related Articles
- A Happy Hooker – As I learn the traditional skills of rug hooking. (liveruralnl.com)
- Opportunity to Hook: Mat/Rug Hooking Training (liveruralnl.com)
- Rug Hooking – Learning the Process (liveruralnl.com)
Snowshoeing at Deep Cove, NL – January 30, 2011
Deep Cove Ski Club
On January 30, 2011 I finally got the opportuntiy to use my Christmas snowshoes.
I decided to take the trails on the Deep Cove Ski Club. It was a nice afternoon with lots of powder on the ground.
My Snowshoes and Sealskin Boots
I was proudly wearing my sealskin boots to keep me warm. These were the last skins my father barked before he past away. My sealskin boots have been around for 12 years now. They are certainly part of our heritage and culture that links back to pre-industrial revolution, in which seal fat was rendered and used for oil lamps, the meat provided nourishment to a population that lived in a harsh island environment and the skin was used for boots and clothing. They were a necessity. In the photo above, I am stopping to make a snow angel. Sometimes it is nice to have a big kid moment and really enjoy life.
The Trail - The sun is setting
I snowshoed extensively for a beginner, only by accident. My friend who accompanied me, she supposedly knew the trail. We ended up walking a big loop, of nearly 10 kms. It was certainly a fun day, despite getting side tracked. An outdoor adventure with a great friend, exercise and sunshine, what more could anyone want?
Looking on, as the sun sets...
A world of activity can be found just off the Viking Trail (Route 430) at Deep Cove Ski Club. Bring your skis or snowshoes - Come and enjoy the winter tourism season in Northern Newfoundland.
Live Rural NL 0
Related Articles
- Will I need my new Snowshoes for Winter 2011? (liveruralnl.com)
Culinary Cork – Strasbourg Goose Restaurant
Steamed Mussels in White Wine Sauce & Fresh roll
- Strasbourg Goose Restaurant – Culinary Cork, Ireland
Bruschetta
Salmon Dish, Duck w/Potatoes au Gratin and Vegetables
Chocolate Cake and Hot Chocolate Sauce
Dessert included a chocolate cake with hot chocolate sauce and cream. I have to say it felt like a little piece of heaven.
Mom's Trifle
Murphy's Beer
Our tummies were stuffed. To our pleasure this fine dining meal only cost us 42 Euros, which is equivalent to less than $60 CDN.
Experiencing the Newfoundland – Ireland Connection
I visited Ireland in 2007. We celebrated St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin with local Irish men. This happened because the week before Jen and I were in Stockholm, Sweden and starting talking to them in the street. I am glad she did, because we had a truly authentic Irish Paddy’s Day experience with the kitchen party at an Irish residence, to whirly burgers and more. Thank you James, Elmo and others. Jen & I will never forget the times at McGowens.
We returned again in April, after missing our cheap flights with both of us over sleeping; as we all celebrated the end of the semester the night before. This resulted in us taking multiple trains, underground, bus, ferry, shuttle and tram. We travelled from England to Wales to Ireland to dock in Dublin, Ireland 12 hours later than expected, but we made it. My final visit to the island was in December 2007 when I flew to Edinburgh alone prior to Christmas. There I met the Dodgemeister and a Swedish Princess. After a couple of days I took the train to Glasgow and the ferry to Belfast, Northern Ireland. On the ferry, I watched Meet the Robinson’s, one of Pixar’s excellent movies. It is right up there with Despicable Me. After arriving in Belfast, I was able to experience the Christmas Markets around city hall and enjoy many hours of excellent shopping.
As you can see, my previous trips to Ireland and Northern Ireland resulted in multiple forms of transit. Never though, did I ever rent a car and attempt to drive on the left hand side of the road, until November 2010.
Hyundai Getz
My mother must have been very trusting or scared for her life constantly. After we landed at the Cork airport, I picked up my rental car from the Budget Kiosk desk. After getting in and driving one car it had an incredible beeping noise that would not go away. I check all doors, windows, handbreak, but nothing seemed to stop it. So back to the Kiosk and they exchanged my Nissan for a little Hyundai Getz.
Side View of the Hyundai Getz Street In Ireland
Our flight was delayed from Paris, coupled with the delay with changing the rental car pitted me in the second largest city in Ireland during rush hour traffic with no experience driving on the left. I have to say it was quite the daunting driving experience, but after getting parked that night each successive day seemed like a breeze.
I love Ireland, it is like a second homecoming, as the beauty of the land reminds me of being in rural Newfoundland, only the grass in Ireland is Emerald Green, even in November. In 2007, I made multiple trips, but never really experienced Ireland, as I did not venture outside capital cities. Therefore, I decided it was important to see the countryside and the best way to achieve this was to rent a car, as it allowed me the freedom to explore the tiny villages and rural castles.
Prior to leaving I downloaded maps on my GPS (Gertrude Prudence Spencer, I mean Global Positioning System) as I felt that getting use to the narrow roads, new landscape and driving on the left would be enough for me to manage without having to find my destination. It would have been almost impossible to manage without the GPS, driving as much time would have been lost trying to find locations.
Street In Ireland
I enjoyed taking “roundabouts” (traffic circles), claiming to be “roundabout king”. I am sure though maybe I received a horn once or twice.
Paris by Day & Night…
Tour Eiffel - By Night
The Tour Eiffel is not to be missed by night. We took the metro and got off at Trocadero and walked from the Palais de Chaillot gardens across the Seinr. It gave a fabulous view and some excellent photo opportunities. We arrived just before dark and visited a cafe for a nice dessert and got a great light show after dark.
Windmills of Moulin Rouge
Dinner cruise on the Seine
Riverboats frequent the Seine.The architecture along this river is well-lit, enabling the river to really see them glow. We did not have the opportunity, but can only imagine on a warm night looking on and reaching out to these wonder pieces of art.
Related Articles
- Tour Eiffel – By Day; Paris, France (liveruralnl.com)
- Paris by Day & Night… (liveruralnl.com)
Youth Opportunity: Canadian Student Leadership Conference
Corner Brook Regional High is hosting the Canadian Student Leadership Conference from September 27, 2011 through October 1, 2011. This is a monumental undertaking with approximately 1000 student leaders coming to Corner Brook from all regions of the country.
I’ve included a pdf of the itinerary at the following link: CSLC 2011 Itinerary(Website)
If you are interested in participating, visit http://www.cslc2011.ca
Live Rural NL -
Christopher Mitchelmore
Emperor Napoleon’s Tomb – Paris, France
The Napoleonic Wars had an impact on the settlement on the Island of Newfoundland during 1803-1815. The withdrawal of the warring nations from the salt cod fishery gave Newfoundland a monopoly in such a lucrative industry. During these years prosperity came with increase in standards of living and brought great social change.
While in France, my mother and I visited the Hotel des Invalides and Napoleon’s Tomb.
Napolean's Tomb
Dome Artwork
Miniature of the Hotel des Invalides and Napoleon's Tomb
The Invalides complex with Dome Church, built in 1670 was a military hospital. It has beautiful gardens, which are lined by canons. There is a focus of Napoleon’s life and death.
It is one of the places you can see while in France.
Live Rural NL -
Christopher Mitchelmore
Related Articles
- Emperor Napoleon’s Tomb – Paris, France (liveruralnl.com)
- Notre Dame Cathedral – Paris, France (liveruralnl.com)
Transport – Paris France; A Fixed Link?
"Metropolitain" Paris, France
In rural Newfoundland, geography makes it quite difficult to walk to conduct daily business. Myself, commute 50 kilometers to work each day. The city of Paris has two million people, but the metropolitan area has nearly 12 million people, which means many commutors. Europeans boast an active lifestyle, with many walkers, bicyclists and commuters by an excellent public transit system.
After arriving in Paris, France, I made sure to purchase my tickets for the Metropolitain as a quick and efficient way to get around several parts of the city.
I question our government, why isn’t Canada investing more into public transit and high speed trains. A high speed train could easily connect Calgary, AB and Edmonton, AB. These two large oil cities of the west have two high traffic airports and a less than three hour drive between the twin cities of just over 1 Million people, a high speed train would be a good investment. Better infrastructure is needed connecting larger urban centers of Canada, such as Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec City. Intercity connections could also be established with corresponding US cities, such as New York, Detroit and Buffalo. In rural Newfoundland, the Trans-Labrador Highway needs continued paving. Quebec continues to complete Route 138, which will link the North Shore to larger urban centers, such as Montreal.
It is time for Quebec’s Ministry of Transport and Newfoundland & Labrador‘s Department of Transportation, Services and Works to work together to ensure that projects are on the same timelines. A fixed link can be established connecting the island portion of the province to Mainland Canada.
The Channel Tunnel (referred to as Chunnel), connects the United Kingdom and France by an undersea rail tunnel which is 50 kilometers in length. It has been operating since 1994. The Strait of Belle Isle distance is 15 km at its narrowest point. It can be done!
This needs to be placed on the political agenda of the government. It is time for our politicians to be fighting for advanced transportation networks. Let’s create a stronger voice for a stronger Canada.
Live Rural NL -
Christopher Mitchelmore
Tour Eiffel – By Day; Paris, France
- Tour Eiffel
View from above
A view of the tower
The Tour Eiffel is synonymous with Paris, an a must see while visiting. It was meant to be only temporary for the 1889 Universal Exhibition. It was built by Gustave-Alexandre Eiffel. It weighs 7000 tonnes.
The light rainfall did not stop us from braving the hundreds of stairs to the first level. There was quite a line for those wishing to take the elevator up, but my mom and I certainly did not mind the exercise.
The view from above is marvelous. At the top you can see for 65 kms. There are great photo opportunities. We easily spotted the Hotel des Invalides and Napoleon’s Tomb. The golden dome really stands out.
Cityscapes
Cuisine – Paris France
Enjoying a glass of wine in Paris
Monkfish & PastaStuffed Mussels
Tiramisu
Chicken dish with frites
Fish dish with salad
Creme Brulee
Chocolate Mousse
My mini espresso and mom's larger latte
Plum dessert
Trifle Dessert
