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Mitchelmore speaks to Interim Supply (Budget 2013)
CHAIR: I recognize the hon. the Member for The Straits – White Bay North.
MR. MITCHELMORE: Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Before I begin, I would like to pass along condolences to the Member for Lewisporte and the Member for Cape St. Francis on their recent losses.
The Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs in speaking to the Interim Supply bill, as well as many other ministers here, have talked about and have asked us, the New Democratic Party, for our plan. What is our plan? The minister had said the same thing.
I have to say, Mr. Chair, the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and all of the other ministers are managers of their departments, they have their employees. It is their jobs to produce the plans. They have failed to be putting forward with these plans. If they want our plans, they can hand over government to the New Democratic Party, Mr. Chair, and we will produce our plans.
SOME HON. MEMBERS: Oh, oh!
CHAIR: Order, please!
MR. MITCHELMORE: Speaking on the Interim Supply and the money –
SOME HON. MEMBERS: Oh, oh!
CHAIR: Order, please!
The hon. the Member for The Straits – White Bay North, to continue.
MR. MITCHELMORE: Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I will talk about the gross mismanagement from the Progressive Conservatives on the other side. Newfoundland and Labrador‘s per capita spending increased rapidly between 2006 and 2010. Per capita spending averaged 50 per cent higher than all other provinces in Canada in the last three years, according to APEC.
SOME HON. MEMBERS: Oh, oh!
CHAIR: Order, please!
MR. MITCHELMORE: Newfoundland and Labrador, Mr. Chair, the oil royalties will come in well below –
SOME HON. MEMBERS: Oh, oh!
CHAIR: Order, please!
Again, I ask all members for their co-operation.
The hon. the Member for The Straits – White Bay North.
MR. MITCHELMORE: Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I know the truth hurts sometimes, but I would appreciate if the members opposite would listen to the harsh realities of our fiscal situation. We are going to be well below budget in 2012-2013 in our oil royalties – no Atlantic Accord payments; this is going to intensify Newfoundland and Labrador to really curtail spending now because of lack of planning.
In the 2012 fiscal year, there was a $436 million reduction in oil royalties. Mineral taxes dropped $114 million. Corporate tax revenue, which was in the Budget of increasing $200 million, dropped $47 million. The only thing that actually was really, really good last year was there was a $92 million increase in personal income tax revenue. Do you know why that is? It is primarily because of a commuter economy. Where is that going to head in the future with all of the layoffs government are doing right now? We are not going to have the personal income tax; that is not going to be coming in, not at that level.
So, you have to be really careful when you are planning and doing a Budget. I ran a business, Mr. Chair. I know about making plans.
Oil prices are set to decline by 6 per cent in 2013 and net debt, Mr. Chair, well, the former Minister of Finance had talked quite a bit about net debt. I want to say for everybody out there that net debt is the short- and long-term debt minus the cash and cash equivalents.
If you are doing such a good job at managing the Province, we look at the fiscal position. The actual position for 2011-2012, every man, woman and child, net debt, dollars per capita: $15,257. Where are we forecasted this year: $17,329. Where are we going to be forecast the year after: $18,867. What about the year after: $19,497. That is being real fiscally responsible right there, taking on all that debt. Taking on more debt to build Muskrat Falls is going to increase borrowing and that is going to carry a lot of debt on a lot of carrying cost for taxation and interest there.
We talked about the members opposite talking about: we cannot build an economy on volatility, you know – and that is exactly what they are doing. That is exactly what they are doing. They are risking it and it is looking at volatility.
If we look at where we could go with this, Prince Edward Island, for example, tabled multi-year, three-year Budgets; where is this government going? We have no idea; we really do not, because they do not table any type of long-term plan.
They say they have a Northern Strategic Plan for Labrador; we do not know what is being spent from year to year and how it is being balanced. It is not out there. It is not listed. There is no timeline. What about in the Transportation and Works Department, where they have capital spending for paving roads and things like that? We have no idea from one year to the next which area of the Province is going to get paving, and if it is an absolute need, and the things like that.
The Nova Scotia government has a five-year plan. They have listed every road that is going to be getting paving and bridges. It is directly there; it is publicly available. Can the Minister of Transportation and Works stand up and say: well, we have a plan available. It is public. It is available. This government is not very transparent and not very accountable to the people who elected them.
I spoke to a constituent and they wrote and they said to me: the government really needs to look at trying to find how we can move from making our renewable resources prosper, really have to focus on those renewable resources, because we see how mining, we see how oil, which is the bulk of our economy –
AN HON. MEMBER: (Inaudible).
MR. MITCHELMORE: Muskrat Falls – I am glad you are saying that, somebody across the floor – $20 billion in revenues; well, what is the borrowing cost?
SOME HON. MEMBERS: Oh, oh!
CHAIR: Order, please!
MR. MITCHELMORE: What are the labour costs? Look at the expenditures that it is going to take over that time.
SOME HON. MEMBERS: Oh, oh!
CHAIR: Order, please!
MR. MITCHELMORE: Material cost, inflation – all of these things are going to have an impact on what is going to be the actual return. This is all at the risk of the ratepayers of this Province.
Instead of looking at things, Mr. Chair – our renewable economy, like the fishery, as I spoke about in the first one; the Fisheries Minister is certainly managing the decline of the fishery. In 2003, when the Tories came into power, it was worth a billion dollars in seafood exports. In a decade, it is at its lowest amount: $740 million – no ideas, no plans, nothing structurally put into place.
The same thing with the forestry; it is in absolute disarray. You talk about putting in investment. You put investment in my district, in Roddickton, in a pellet plant, but you did not go far enough with that. The Department of Innovation, Business and Rural Development, in planning that they put forward, when they recommended funding it was outlined there; it said, it absolutely said that there is going to be problems with transportation. It is going to be problematic, but they said, no, we will loan this money anyway, with all the other funders, without having a plan to make sure that this industry is going to be sustainable, that there are going to be personal income taxes coming from the forestry, that there will be corporate income taxes coming from the forestry, and that the Department of Natural Resources is going to get royalties from the logs that are actually being cut down.
You have to really have a balanced portfolio when you go to the bank. You do not just buy stocks. You would not go and buy 100 per cent stocks in Google because Google might go down next year. You really want to have a diversified portfolio, and the Province is not really focusing on that. They put all of their eggs in that Muskrat Falls basket. They are not focusing on – they are actually working very hard to erode rural Newfoundland and Labrador by their lack of vision and their lack of investment.
I certainly challenge the Minister of IBRD to get up on his feet and actually put forward that plan, because there is none. It does not exist. It really does not. It is very painful to see that the Ministers of IBRD and Natural Resources will not get together and actually make the industry on the Northern Peninsula, the forest industry, work.
It can work for people. It can be millions and millions of dollars for the Treasury here. You are going to let it die and you are going to let those people go to Alberta and elsewhere. If we keep sending everyone away and sending our youth away, we are going to continue to have unsustainable health care, unsustainable, unprecedented spending, and there will be no way to turn around.
Muskrat Falls will not save this Province, Mr. Chair. It really will not. This will not do it. It is not fiscally responsible and we need to see better; we expect better. The people expect better from their government. They really do, and people are getting sick and tired of hearing the same old rhetoric, the same old spin, and saying we have a plan when you really do not have a plan. If you are not prepared to govern and you are not willing to do it, then you are going to have to turn the reins over to somebody else who is willing to do it.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
SOME HON. MEMBERS: Hear, hear!
Related articles
- Mitchelmore questions commitment to rural job creation (liveruralnl.com)
- Report reflects how government is mismanaging fishery (christophermitchelmore.com)
- Water situation dire in some rural areas: Mitchelmore (christophermitchelmore.com)
Marketing Outport Newfoundland & Labrador
Newfoundland & Labrador has marketed ‘outport’ or rural parts of the province in its award-winning tourism ad campaigns.
Innovative rural companies like Auk Island Winery in Twillingate are continuing to add flavour to the tourism experience. Newfoundland & Labrador takes pride in its unique local berries, such as patridgeberry, bakeapples, squashberries, as well as our very own Screech Rum. This company typically makes berry wines and sells quintessentially on Newfoundlandia.
I have tried bottles that are called, “Moose Juice”, “Krooked Cod”, “Jellybean Row” and “Funky Puffin”. I believe part of my purchasing of this product is curiosity, but primarily to support a local business that prides itself in all things Newfoundland & Labrador.
The imagery on Outport Wine, which includes an iceberg, outport boats and fishing rooms. The splash of Screech just adds to the authenticity and certainly begins the storytelling process.
This season I hope to tour Auk Island Winery and taste many other wines they have produced in various shapes and sizes. Let’s keep being creative and expand the rural economy and our visitor experiences as we celebrate traditional and modern-day outports.
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthMitchelmore questions commitment to rural job creation
NDP critic for Innovation, Business and Rural Development Christopher Mitchelmore (MHA, The Straits-White Bay North) says government’s approach to job creation in rural Newfoundland and Labrador is sadly lacking in vision.
“Government is dropping the ‘rural’ from the Department of Innovation, Business and Rural Development with cuts to RED Boards, Employment Assistance Services, and no real plan for creating jobs from the ground up,” Mitchelmore said in the House of Assembly today. “Megaprojects create boom and bust economies and forced migration, and tear away at the social fabric of our economy.
“When will the minister of IBRD get serious about rural job creation and prevent further mass outmigration from decimating the rural landscape?”
Mitchelmore says encouraging job creation in rural Newfoundland is a vital part of ensuring economic health for the province. He pointed to wharf development as one possible option that has worked in parts of the province and could work in others.
“Government has invested $23 million since 2003 into aquaculture, including six biosecure wharves,” he said in the House. “Without this investment some 1000 jobs and $400 million dollars would have been lost.
“The forest industry on the Great Northern Peninsula impacts more than 150 workers and can prove to provide significant returns.
“When will the minister of Natural Resources commit to providing a needed wharf to Roddickton port to sustain an industry, jobs, and rural communities as well as putting needed money back in the provincial treasury?”
Related articles
- Report reflects how government is mismanaging fishery (christophermitchelmore.com)
- Air ambulance services must be fully reviewed in ambulance review (christophermitchelmore.com)
What a view today on the Great Northern Peninsula…
The Great Northern Peninsula has a unique offering including the presence of abundant nature and wildlife. Today as I drove from St. Anthony to Green Island Cove I was greeted by a small heard of caribou in Eddies Cove East and pulled over to wait for them to cross the road. After driving through this tiny community in “The Straits” to the south I saw a total of nine caribou. It was unusual for them to be grazing for food on the opposite side of the road adjacent to the frozen Strait of Belle Isle with Labrador dominating in the background. It was one of those moments when you stared in amazement. I was fortunate to have a camera and able to pull over and take a few photos. See the gallery below:
A visit to the Straits region of the Great Northern Peninsula may be the perfect opportunity for you to get your glimpse of these beautiful animals.
Sometimes, the best surprises don’t cost you a thing.
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay North
We all have stories to tell…
We all have stories to tell. We share them with our friends, family and even the world through the social media. There is a time and space for this type of art form. I use my blog as a forum to share knowledge of culture, people, landscapes, business, heritage and history of the Great Northern Peninsula. Our way of life has been viewed by nearly 180 countries world-wide and edging closer to 200,000 views. I may not have the talents of my grandfather Mitchelmore for storytelling, but I do my best to convey what is truly authentic to rural Newfoundland & Labrador.
This past weekend, my sister and I had a unique opportunity to be in the audience at the St. John’s Arts & Culture Centre and were spectators to a performance scripted by a local playwright, Megan Coles.
Our Eliza is real – authentic. A true depiction of what life was like growing up in rural Newfoundland & Labrador not so long ago. It is masterfully crafted – capturing the audience from the first soundbite as it works its way through a powerful coming of age story. One exuding Newfoundland humour and wit, colourful language and actions that will keep you wanting more, long after the curtain closes. Our Eliza is the type of story that must be told beyond centre stage, it should be shared with Outport Newfoundland & Labrador – one of which we can all reflect upon as to who we truly are as a people – a society. -Christopher C. Mitchelmore, MHA
When I picked up my tickets at the box office, I was asked my address. I responded, “Green Island Cove”. The person asked where that was and I said, “The Great Northern Peninsula”. She said, I will be in for a real treat with tonight’s showing and that it has been getting great reviews from those in attendance. This certainly raised my expectations, especially since Friday and Saturday night’s performances had sold out.
The very first soundbite set the stage of framing for the audience the hardship the moratorium would have on our way of life in rural Newfoundland & Labrador. Actors Greg Malone (Author of “Don’t Tell The Newfoundlanders”), Joel Thomas Hynes and Renee Hackett turned the clock back more than twenty years and had us reminiscing only in the stories our parents and grandparents could had told us. Our Eliza, is the typical Newfoundland girl, who becomes a woman and the glue that kept many of us together especially when times got tough. The modest, yet powerful story that lasted about 1 hour and half was filled with humour, wit and antics in which I could easily relate. I do not want to give away the story-line I want you to go experience it for yourself.
These talents have engaged in putting our culture, our life experiences into performance, which brings together many art forms. We can all learn something about our roots and the role in which space plays in it. I took a Newfoundland Society & Culture, in which I learned much about community order and our every day space. It was pleasing to hear writer and co-producer Megan Coles, and co-producer Shannon Hawes, founders of The Poverty Cove Theatre Company open the show highlighting the minimalism utilized in staging, as well as the desire to be able to tell this story in non-conventional spaces. On March 2 & 3, the performance has found a home in the Library of the St. John’s Arts & Culture Centre. You can purchase tickets at www.artsandculturecentre.com.
Thank you Megan Coles for sharing with us your creative talents and all those involved with the current production. You have made Our Eliza, a part of all of us. I only hope this story gets told throughout rural Newfoundland & Labrador where it can be at home, especially the Great Northern Peninsula.
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthInspired by our Lifestyle & Fishing Heritage
The Great Northern Peninsula has been known as “Petit Nord“, it has been inhabited by the Aboriginals, Vikings, Recent Indians, Basques, French, Irish, Scottish and English settlers. Life has existed because of the fishery, and continues even today.
Products created by local artists dominate my office at the confederation building and complement our rich fishing heritage. Hanging on the wall is an original painting done by Danny Rose that depicts Flower’s Island Lighthouse and continues to include an iceberg and shipping vessel. The lighthouse played a critical role for safety, with radio operators on-site as well.
The fishers are splitting their fish, near Noddy Bay on the tip of the Great Northern Peninsula in another. This piece was done by William Bartlett. The artwork has a very unique look, especially when you take a closer look at the facial expressions of people.
My most recent purchase is “Le Mousse”, the French fisherman. I purchased this on-site at the French Shore Interpretation Centre’s Guardian Gift Shop in Conche, NL (www.frenchshore.com). This was created by the very talented Loretta Decker of L’Anse aux Meadows. She is much better at staging her photos, so I borrowed this image (full credit to Loretta Decker below). I’m told this fisher could resemble me, you will have to be the judge.
Ms. Decker also does Viking Troll dolls. Images can be found at Norstead Viking Village Inc.’s Facebook Page. We must support our local artists and craft producers. Their ideas and creativity touch the lives of many and do so much more to promote the region, its history, heritage, people and culture.
We must continue to develop unique products that illustrate our rich and vibrant culture on the Great Northern Peninsula. It can be done. There are lots of new opportunities to create, market and share the wonderful stories of our past, present and future.
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- Fishing Remains Our Mainstay (liveruralnl.com)
- “Here’s to Great Ideas, Great Experiences and a Great Friendship” – 2013 (liveruralnl.com)
- Giving the Gift of something Handmade cannot be Beat (liveruralnl.com)
- Family Time – Remember when the capelin rolled in….. (liveruralnl.com)
Fishing Remains Our Mainstay
Newfoundland & Labrador has been known for hundreds of years for being a fishing economy – even today it is the mainstay of our Great Northern Peninsula. The weather may be colder at the moment as local residents put a log on the fire to heat their home by the old wood stove.
As I peered out my window today I could see the Strait of Belle Isle in a deep freeze as pack ice began connecting the island to maintain Labrador. Maybe in the future there will be a permanent link that creates a transportation hub that will radically transform our local economy.
In the meantime, the days are getting longer with Springtime quickly approaching. These little boats in the photo below are tied up at the Sandy Cove wharf, they will take to the water. The small boat fisher will be seeking to harvest lobster, herring, mackerel, cod and other species. It will only be a matter of time before the pots, nets and gear hit the water. A flurry of activity will commence through the busy summer season and into the Fall.
The wharf is an essential piece of infrastructure. In the past many fishers had their own private wharves, which led to fishing rooms, drying and gear sheds. One can view many properties driving the Great Northern Peninsula. They make for the perfect photo op.
We pride ourselves in our rich fishing culture in the District. It is our reason for being here, our mainstay.
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay North
Live Rural NL blogger visits Penny Lane
There are places I remember, all my life…the Great Northern Peninsula will be one of those places. The line is from one of my favorite songs, “In My Life” by the Beatles. For many years now I’ve love their music, but certainly didn’t appreciate Paul McCartney’s stance with former wife, Heather Mills-McCartney about the Canadian seal hunt in 2006. I will continue to support this humane hunt; it has been a tradition in my family for centuries as a means of both income, subsistence and necessity.
After living in Europe during 2007, I travelled nearly 30 countries but did not make it to Liverpool, UK. It would be 5 years later, September 2012 that I would walked Penny Lane.
While on a taxi tour with an American, Aussie and two die-hard seniors from New Zealand got a get day trip experiencing many facts about the Beatles, former residences, milestone moments in the city and where they got inspiration for many of their sounds. It had to have been the best 10 pounds I spent, unless one counts the pints of English ale.
In Penny there is a Barber Shop…we had the opportunity to stop in and say hello.
Strawberry Fields Forever…nothing to get hung about despite what John’s Aunt had told him.
A visit to the church yard to see all the lonely people – Eleanor Rigby Father McKenzie (Vicar McKenzie)
We all live in a yellow submarine, a yellow submarine, yellow submarine…
This one was belted out from all of us while on the taxi tour. We’ve played a few of these tunes at home on the Great Northern Peninsula on the Beatles edition of Rockband. I’m typically the drummer, but certainly can not compare to Ringo Starr. It’s pretty inspiring when music crosses generations. I like many of the bands my parents did and my mother will even chime in with her rendition of eight days a week on Rockband. I’m not sure that we will sell any platinum albums, but we certainly know how to have fun.
There is something wonderful and uplifting about music. We certainly have that ability in Newfoundland & Labrador to write, play and sing about our way of life through our traditional Newfoundland folk music. Where do you get your inspiration? For me, I get inspired by the sights, sounds and people around me and write about them on this blog, liveruralnl.com.
I later toured the museum of The Beatles Story, which had memorabilia, story boards and displays tracing the group through the years.
That evening I decided to visit the Cavern, where The Beatles would perform in their early years. Live music was played covering many of my choice Beatles songs.
A wonderful evening. I met two Brits, who worked for the Red Cross (one who resembled a local Telegram reporter) and a Spanish lady as we traced the footsteps of the Beatles after the band finished at the Cavern. We would go to the Grapes and chat with other locals. It made for a memorable last evening in Liverpool. The Beatles story is a magical experience and I would recommend to fans, if you can take the time to visit this modern-day city.
It is amazing sometimes how you can live in a place, as I did in London and not take the time to visit Liverpool. However, I am not richer for having had the experience and most likely the wait made me appreciate it even more. For those of you that have yet to experience the Great Northern Peninsula, I encourage you to come to the very Northern Tip…it is well worth the experience, maybe you too will find your inspiration around every corner.
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthThe Iceberg Festival
Join us on the tip of the Great Northern Peninsula as we celebrate our Iceberg Festival from June 7 – 16, 2013.
The Northern Peninsula known as Iceberg Alley. In 2011, the Peterman Iceberg landed in Goose Cove with some massive bergs.
Experience culture, tradition, local landscapes, art and people this season. For more information visit www.theicebergfestival.ca
A Winter Wonderland – Roddickton, Newfoundland & Labrador
Roddickton coined “Moose Capital of the World” is also a winter wonderland. I took some time to visit some residents, talk about local issues and take a few snaps a long the way.
I couldn’t resist capturing this snowman. It reminded me of family and how they are the cornerstone of our lives and society. One evening back in senior high I was studying for a biology exam with my cousin when the snow began to fall. You know that perfect wet stuff? Well, we could not resist. Our inner child said, “build a snowman”. So we listened! We even got a chair to help lever the snowballs. It was spectacular! I love seeing when individuals, children, parents and others bring out their inner child and build there very own snowman.
Roddickton is known as a lumbering town – home of Lumberjack’s Landing and it surrounded by big drokes, towering trees and rich forests. Dr. Wilfred Grenfell founded local cooperatives and started a saw mills and farm in Canada Bay more than 100 years ago, as he understand having paid employment was another means of promoting good health. This initiative would lead to the eventual development of the Town of Roddickton. Despite challenges in the forest industry, it remains a vital part of the Town’s economy today. I snapped a photo of a nicely packed tier of firewood. There is nothing like the heat from an old wood stove on a cold winter’s day.
Does anyone know more about this vehicle? It certainly appears to be resting during the winter.
Agriculture has played a role in this Town, with grants going back to pre-confederation. There is opportunity for more growth and it’s nice to see the presence of a tractor.
This Town, like Englee was dealt an economic blow when it lost its fish plant several years ago. It joins many other Towns in the District that are left with former fish plants that were once a pulse of the community and are now idle and derelict. There are still fishers in the community, lots of life and activity. Below is a picture of the ‘Jolly Rogers”.
Roddickton – boasts a mountains backdrop and is surrounded by both water and rich forests. It is a nature lover’s paradise! If one enjoys winter life, then come visit this Town of great snowmobiling and outdoor adventure. If you are unable to make a winter visit then why not join the summer fun? 2013 is Come Home Year in Roddickton from August 5-11th.
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- Family – The Cornerstone of Our Lives & Society (liveruralnl.com
- Biomass as Alternatives – 750,000 annual tonnes of pellets could convert Holyrood Question Period (12.03.2012) (christophermitchelmore.com)
- Fisheries minister sells out rural Newfoundland and Labrador (christophermitchelmore.com)
A Snow Covered L’Anse Aux Meadows, Newfoundland & Labrador
L’Anse aux Meadows located 41 KM from St. Anthony, is home to WORLD UNESCO heritage site. It was originally named L’anse aux Meaduses (Jellyfish Bay) by French migratory fishermen; the latter presence of English settlers, would alter it to the current name.
This community boasts panoramic view scapes and has been well-captured under the lens. During summer tens of thousands of tourists flock here and even a number cruise ships pull up to the dock.
Today, I visited the snow-covered community and was able to talk to local residents. One resident loved how she was fortunate to be surrounded by water from the front and rear of her property. Another couple also liked the peacefulness of the community at this time of year. I was told the Mummer’s also made their presence known in during the holidays.
L’Anse aux Meadows, like many Newfoundland & Labrador outports’ primary economy is maintained by fishing.
It has also grown to be a burgeoning centre for tourists. Each year more than 30,000 visitors come to L’Anse aux Meadows World UNESCO Heritage Site, several thousand visit the open-air museum “Norstead – Viking Village and Port of Trade”, while others frequent the Gaia Art Gallery and experience the fine dining of the Norseman Restaurant.
To experience North America’s only authentic Norse site, you have to drive Route 430 ‘The Viking Trail” and turn at Route 436 to L’Anse aux Meadows. There are many lovely B&B’s, Cottages, Efficiency Units, Motels, RV Parks, and Heritage Rentals along this route.
It is another truly unique place to experience on the Great Northern Peninsula. Start planning your visit today for summer 2013!
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- Reykjavik Open Air Museum Arbaer (liveruralnl.com)
Conche, Newfoundland & Labrador on a Winter’s Day
Conche, Newfoundland & Labrador is a Town of the Great Northern Peninsula that is tagged as “The Beauty Spot of the North”. It like Fogo Island, should be one of the Top 10 Destinations to visit in the World – rich in culture, vernacular architecture, French history and overflowing with local knowledge. This place does exist, so add it to your vacation in 2013!
The view from the cove on a winter’s day can be enchanting…
Conche is also a vibrant fishing community, with a number of small boat fishers and those harvesting shellfish. An active fish plant still is seeking employees based on advertisements in the local paper. What a wonderful community to be able to earn a living. Why not consider putting in an application at Conche Seafoods Ltd?
What a great view of Lar’s Place in the photo below:
This wharf depicted below is a pleasure to view. It has since been updated with new lines as it continued to survive elements. The Newfoundland Flag has nearly been weathered away. Don’t despair though, from walking trails, snowmobiling and interactions with local Conchers will make the visit in winter well-worth the trip.
If you cannot make a winter’s visit to Conche, NL, then drop by in summer. This Town is at the Heart of the French Shore (www.frenchshore.com) and 2013 is 300 years after the signing of the Treaty of Utrecht. It has North America’s only 222 ft tapestry on Jacobian-linen, make by local women depicting the culture, heritage and history on the French Shore and was designed by artist J.C. Roy. As well, July 25 -August 1, 2013 is Conche Come Home Year Celebration. It is not to be missed!
Newfoundland & Labrador Government must commit, develop a plan to pave Route 434 to Conche. It is a 17.6 KM gravel road that has received millions in realignment a few years ago. Without the hardtop, that invest is eroding down to the bedrock.
Despite a gravel road, this Town is a destination – a must visit! While on the Great Northern Peninsula East, check out communities of Englee, Roddickton, Bide Arm, Main Brook, Croque & St. Julien’s-Grandois – you simply could not be disappointed. Experience the many wonders the Great Northern Peninsula has to offer.
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- “Here’s to Great Ideas, Great Experiences and a Great Friendship” – 2013 (liveruralnl.com)
- There’s Giant Cod Fish Out There… (liveruralnl.com)
Family Time – Remember when the capelin rolled in…..
I remember the excitement in Green Island Cove when the capelin rolled in the beach one summer around 1991. It was the year my father made my little dip net. With all the fuss we rushed to the shore to join other members of the community with our buckets and started filling them with our dip nets. You had to be quick, because it was only a matter of time and they would be gone.
My great-great-aunt Lavinia, who turns 98 years-young this year was on the beach that day. She arrived a bit later and didn’t quite have her bucket full, so we helped her top up her catch. She remembers that day and we have talked about it on occasion in my past visits. She’s a lady full of energy and she has a remarkable way of telling a story. I know from our conversations she was always up for a good joke or a bit of fun.
If you ever get the opportunity to see the capelin roll, it’s one of natures wonders. As they rolled around Logy Bay-Middle Cove-Outer Cove this past summer on the Avalon, it brought droves of locals and tourists alike, creating much traffic congestion.
The capelin – a small forage fish is often the lunch of cod. It is good to see them a plenty. I certainly saw much capelin coming ashore in Englee this past summer. The cod are back and there are giant cod-fish out there.
I have a capelin that was made locally, which I hang on my Christmas tree each year.
There are many opportunities to show off your talents. The College of the North Atlantic, St. Anthony Campus has a glass art studio and Norstead – Viking Village and Port of Trade, L’Anse Aux Meadows has a pottery studio available for us to make unique product. Why not carve and create a capelin mug, bowl, jewelry, Christmas ornament, glass coaster or pendant? We have so many opportunities, potential markets from local shops, craft outlets, on-line, Come Home Year celebrations and a number of cruise ships that visit the area. Now is the time to start marking product, be ready for those who visit and experience The Great Northern Peninsula.
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- There’s Giant Cod Fish Out There… (liveruralnl.com)
Mummer’s Dance & Old Christmas Day Party
The Mummer’s Dance at the Flower’s Cove Lion’s Centre kicked off on Saturday – the eve of Old Christmas Day. We decided to dress up and kick up our heels as we celebrated tradition and the joys of the holidays.
We’ve pulled out boxes of old dress-up clothes, former Halloween costume gear and lots of accessories. Some of the greatest fun with mummering is getting ready with your friends and family, as you dig through the mixture of colorful clothing to find the perfect ensemble. We had quite the band of merry mummers!
We were the first group of mummer’s to arrive and opened the floor. Just minutes after our arrive we were joined by a dozen or so more mysterious mummers. The DJ then played the Mummer’s Song. I don’t think there were many people in attendance that left the floor for very long. A time to be had by all! There is not doubt in my mind, the spirit of mummering is quite strong and really experiencing a true revival on the Great Northern Peninsula.
Old Christmas Day has passed and the mummer costumes are put away for another season. I encourage you all to plan with friends during Christmas 2013 to plan an event or an evening of mummering in your community.
Live Rural NL -
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- 3rd Annual Mummer’s Walk Continues to Break Local Record (liveruralnl.com)
- The Jannies were here… (liveruralnl.com)
- A Scoff at the Cabin… (liveruralnl.com)
- It’s not Christmas without the Mummers Show (cbc.ca)
- The Mummer’s, Granny & MHA join Christmas Parades (christophermitchelmore.com)
A Scoff at the Cabin…
I woke up at 5 AM today, the wind was howling and the weather temperature rang in at -20 degrees. The windchill made it feel like -37 degrees outside. It is on days like these I think of the warmth of the old wood stove, a nice cup of tea and fond memories at the cabin.
Every Christmas we draw family names on my Dad’s side where 7 families exchange presents with one another. This year, my Aunt Linda gave us presents. She gave my mother a lovely print our cousin originally painted of “A Scoff at the Cabin” in February 2008. Depicted below are many of Newfoundland & Labrador‘s favourites, from Purity Hard Bread, Lemon Cream Biscuits served up with some Eversweet Margarine, Purity Jam, Homemade Bread, “Newfie” steak (bologna), a cup of tea with Carnation Milk, a shot of Newfoundland Screech and for dessert some Purity spearmint knobs.
A cup of Tetley tea in the woods simply can not be topped! There must be something about the purity of the water flowing from the brook and then boiled in a cast iron kettle over an open fire. While thinking about the cabin, I was able to enjoy a nice cup of hot chocolate from one of the mugs my aunt also gave me for the holidays. A wonderful glimpse of another Newfoundland tradition of Christmas Mumming! I had the pleasure to dress up for the 3rd Annual Mummer’s Walk, spent a night mummering in my home community and attended the Mummer’s Dance in Flower’s Cove dressed up with the gang (a post to follow).
I like many Newfoundlanders & Labradorians enjoy our foodstuffs and traditions that are quintessentially ours. I thank my thoughtful aunt for the presents as she knows how much I love consuming culture.
Live Rural NL -
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- 3rd Annual Mummer`s Walk – December 28th (liveruralnl.com)
- The Jannies were here… (liveruralnl.com)
- Giving the Gift of something Handmade cannot be Beat (liveruralnl.com)
- The Mummer’s, Granny & MHA join Christmas Parades (christophermitchelmore.com)
- 3rd Annual Mummer’s Walk Continues to Break Local Record (liveruralnl.com)
The Jannies were here…
Growing up we always referred to concept of mummering as jannying. I am not sure how it came about that we adopted the term “Mummer”. It may have had something to do with Simini’s iconic tune, “The Mummer’s Song” produced in 1984. It became a mega-hit and helped revive a dying tradition. One can hear the tune and watch a video of mummering that has more than 200,000 views.
Musicians and local artists have significant influence on popular culture and the way in which communities consume culture and local lore. Although the tradition of mummering is not as vibrant as it once was, I think it is one of those traditions that is here to stay in rural Newfoundland & Labrador, especially on the Great Northern Peninsula.
This Christmas we saw the jannies going around visiting at Christmas night! I have also seen multiple postings on Facebook highlighting janny visits, videos of people stepping ‘er down and enjoying the tradition. We have the opportunity to utilize the social media to share and encourage more active participation in a tradition that was once common for all ruralites to do during the holidays.
The jannies were here last night…
If you are interested in jannying this Christmas, there is still time! Tonight marks a couple of mummer’s dances at Thirsty’s Lounge and Flower’s Cove Lion’s Centre. As well, there are still two nights left to Christmas – so get your bed sheets, rubber boots and pillow cases ready! Keep up the tradition right up to Old Christmas Night.
Live Rural NL -
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- 3rd Annual Mummer’s Walk Continues to Break Local Record (liveruralnl.com)
- It’s not Christmas without the Mummers Show (cbc.ca)
- My Newfoundland & Labrador themed Christmas Tree (liveruralnl.com)
- 3rd Annual Mummer`s Walk – December 28th (liveruralnl.com)
There’s Giant Cod Fish Out There…
We are moving into 21 years and a cod moratorium remains. A decision that has forever altered the way of life in rural Newfoundland & Labrador, especially the smallest of communities.
The closure of the cod fishery in 1992 was to be temporary, yet remains today. It has led to mass out-migration. I was only 6 years old when the cod moratorium came into effect and can certainly recall many families leaving, businesses closing and loss of services. In 1991, the province’s population was 568,000, in 2011 the population dropped to 514,000 – a net loss of 54,000 people or more than 10% of current population, according to Statistics Canada.
The Great Northern Peninsula has been greatly impacted, as the fishery remains today the backbone of our local economy. The loss of population, especially youth and young families adversely impact the amount of tax base available and will push our smaller communities into greater decline. The lack of youth as part of our demographics means we must press our seniors to continue to be committed volunteers longer. These youth that would become community leaders, create new community programs and social offerings or start a business are lost to more urban centres and other provinces that offer high-paying jobs.
Since the first Mitchelmore came from England, they have been fishers. I am the first generation, like my cousins that did not have the option to continue a profession our family has engaged for centuries. Where will this lead rural Newfoundland & Labrador? There are cod in our waters, no question. I could see for myself this summer in communities such as Englee, St. Lunaire-Griquet and Sandy Cove as large cod-fish were landed via small commercial quota or caught in the recreational cod fishery.
CBC Reported: Cod comeback seen off Newfoundland – click for article
In September, I captured this photo at a fish market in Iceland.
As you can see there are certainly giant cod out there.
We need to have a serious conversation about the future of the cod fishery and the role it will play in rural renewal…
Live Rural NL -
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
My Newfoundland & Labrador themed Christmas Tree
Every decorated Christmas tree is like a snowflake in design, as each one is truly unique. I like to add a flavour of Newfoundland & Labrador to my tree. it seems each year, I manage to add something handmade that relates to local lore and culture.
There are specialty stores that pop-up during the holidays and there are those that are open year round selling Christmas items. Imagine the opportunity we have on the Great Northern Peninsula to put our talents to use and make a variety of Christmas ornaments. An informal group, development organization or craft co-op can be formed to get this moving.
I got the seal skin boots depicted above as a gift from the late Aunt Stella Hoddinott. They hung from the mirror of my car for years. It certainly makes them easy to find in a parking lot.
My sister has been a modest entrepreneur throughout the years and made several handmade Christmas ornaments. I am pretty sure my mom and I helped her some 13 years ago and I proudly display the scallop shell angel on the tree.
I have a passion for the mummer’s and look forward to going around visiting before Old Christmas day. I’ve participated in all three Mummer’s Walks and there is a Mummer’s Dance on Saturday! I picked up the accordion ornament at a Christmas store on my first visit to Montreal in 2011. There is another pair of seal skin boots (came from Iqaluit), an Inukshuk (purchased at Grenfell Heritage Shoppe) and a set of snowshoes made by the late Tom Newcombe. I remember giving him a number of wire hangers to make several pairs.
The Newfoundland Boil-up is a tradition that many practise, especially at this time of year. A good ol’ cup of tea in the woods and a small scoff of roasted Newfie Steak (balogna) on a stick or sausages, canned beans and a slice of homemade bread- nothing like it! Also in the picture is “Little Sheila” an Inuk, I made in 2010, while on a cultural exchange in Labrador.
The gallery below depicts a few others: I’ve bought a lobster claw at the Craft Council’s Fall Fair, I have a matching capelin from Grenfell Heritage Shoppe. The amigurumi grey fish came from the Guardian gift shop at the French Shore Interpretation Centre in Conche, the Puffin was a gift from Amanda. The homemade ball with candy canes were made by the group from Community Readiness for People with Disabilities. The wooden ornament came from the Wind & Waves Artisan Shop in Joe Batt’s Arm, Fogo Island as part of the Shorefast Foundation. The killick is an old-fashioned anchor made by Frank Elliott of Main Brook, I purchased from him when I owned and operated Flower’s Island Museum & Mini-golf; in that same picture is my most recent addition of a hand painted ornament of Prague, Czech Republic (where I studied in Europe) and a pair of knitted mittens, made by the late Aunt Dora White. Also, a photo depicts hockey skates, which reminded me of the ones my Dad always wore when he played hockey and another pair of Uncle Tom’s snowshoes are on display next to the reindeer.
I enjoy adding more traditional ornaments to my Christmas tree. There is a real opportunity for hobbyists, crafters and those with an interest to start-up a home-based business, craft co-op or other enterprise to learn new skills and make an income. Let’s not let your talents pass up such an opportunity that can serve as a year-round business.
Live Rural NL -
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay North
Related articles
- “Here’s to Great Ideas, Great Experiences and a Great Friendship” – 2013 (liveruralnl.com)
- 3rd Annual Mummer’s Walk Continues to Break Local Record (liveruralnl.com)
- Giving the Gift of something Handmade cannot be Beat (liveruralnl.com)
- Marketing Rural Newfoundland & Labrador & the VTTA (liveruralnl.com)
- A Cod Jigger Coat Hook (liveruralnl.com)
“Here’s to Great Ideas, Great Experiences and a Great Friendship” – 2013
Welcome 2013 – A new year to share with you all, more experiences of the Great Northern Peninsula and rural Newfoundland & Labrador in general.
Before I look forward, I must look back on the year that was. In fact, on the last day of the year I pulled out a book from the shelve my father made me some years ago. It was a Christmas present my cousin gave me in 2011 that I had yet had the opportunity to read. It was, Steve Jobs’ Biography written by Walter Isaacson. I think the sheer size and weight made it a little intimidating, since I’ve yet to complete War & Peace after several attempts. My new role as a politician has not helped my reading for pleasure, as I generally focus on reading reports, news and current affairs. However, since I’ve picked it up, I’ve been reluctant to put it down – even pulling it from my nightstand at 4 AM to continue on. I am fascinated by the creativity, determination, flaws and charisma Jobs had – his influence revolutionized the way we think of the computers, electronics, brand loyalty and consumer behaviour. I’m about halfway through Isaacson’s biography of Steve Jobs and look forward to the next opportunity to pick it up. It’s certainly a worthy read.
I dog-eared page 217, which had the quote:
“Here’s to great ideas, great experiences and a great friendship! John.”
This line resonated with me, because life is truly about this – great ideas, great experiences and a great friendship. I only hope we act on this line more in life.
I reflect on my blog, as a means to share ideas, experiences and a great friendship with the world as well. In 2012, http://www.liveruranlnl.com received more than 100,000 hits across 166 countries around the globe. To me that is exponential growth, since sharing stories, culture, ideas, heritage, landscapes and other experiences would be quite difficult to reach through traditional means, since I live in a community of 167 people, represent a District of less than 9,000 people and live in a Province of just over 500,000 people. I was able to add just 87 posts for a grand total of 339 posts.
I’ll share with you some of this past year’s highlights:
January 2012 (48 posts)
I rang in the New Year in the Capital city of St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador with a Swiss and German friend, whom I met while studying in Prague in 2007.
On January 2nd we visited beautiful Bell Island, had some Dicks’s Fish & Chips and explored. The chilling air would not deter us from experiencing the well-carved coastline.
My friends and I had ice-fished, mummered, visit Gros Morne National Park, fjords, L’Anse aux Meadows, Norstead, Tea House Hill & Grenfell Historic Properties, Jordi Bonet Murals, Snowmobiling, Screech-ins, Night at the Cabin, North Atlantic Aviation Museum, Joey’s Lookout, Deep Cove Winter Housing site and more. Needless to say January 2012 was quite eventful.
As MHA, I continued to hold Town Hall Meetings, in Conche and Main Brook, as well visited the communities of Wild Bight, North Boat Harbour, Croque and St. Julien’s/Grandois. I called into question the future of the Marystown Fish Plant Facility and repeated calls for the removal and remediation of the Englee fish plant. I also toured GNP Craft Producers, as I continue to advocate for the local marketplace and development of the sealing industry with future value-added products. Also attended pre-budget consultations hosted by Minister Marshall in St. Anthony.
February 2012: (16 posts)
Returned to Cuba.
Served as an opportunity to travel the province with NDP Housing Critic, Gerry Rogers (St. John’s Centre) attending the Housing Roadshow, which started in St. Anthony. This continued to Norris Point, Corner Brook, Stephenville, Grand-Falls Windsor, Clarenville, St. John’s, Happy Valley-Goose Bay and Marystown.
As NDP Fisheries Critic, I joined with three NDP MHA’s to support the picketers at Bay Roberts to oppose scab labour on an offshore vessel.
Gerry & I toured the French Shore Interpretation Centre – getting a view of the 220 foot tapestry designed by the local women of Conche on Jacobian linen. While there I got to purchase an amigurumi seal. It would be during summer that I would meet the creator during the Conche Garden Party Celebration.
We experienced traditional food at Lumberjack’s Landing and also toured Holson Forest Product, getting a demonstration on pellet heating.
Attended a Fisheries Forum
I returned to Labrador – visiting Happy Valley-Goose Bay with NDP Leader Lorraine Michael. The highlight of my visit was to experience a traditional ride on a pure bred Labrador Husky Dog Team with Northern Lights. A remarkable experience.
March 2012: (0 posts)
The House of Assembly opened on March 5th, 2012. The first time since I was elected on October 11, 2011. I raised issues of air ambulance, Englee Fish Plant removal, alternative fisheries models, fishery research funding, roadwork, cutting small business tax, co-ops, improved broadband, enhanced cellular coverage, 911 service, search & rescue and safe drinking water.
I also attended the Federal NDP Leadership Convention, supporting Thomas Mulcair for Leader. With thousands of New Democrats present in Toronto and 9 candidates, Tom Mulcair was voted Leader of NDP and Leader of the Official Opposition.
April 2012: (4 posts)
I had visited Trinity Bay North, as they had been dealt two economic blows – the closure of the OCI fish plant and sealing plant in 2012. I spoke with locals, visited Seaport Inn, and Coaker Foundation. Port Union is the only “union-built town” in North America.
Easter had me visiting Hockey stadiums – in St. Barbe, Placentia and St. John’s as I cheered on District teams.
Attended the Seal of Approval Dinner to support Seal Industry. NL’s top chefs prepared delicacies.
May 2012: (1 post)
Launched Orange Tent Tour in Corner Brook & attended the Trails, Tales & Tunes Festival
I also spend many weekends attending graduations in the District.
June 2012: (0 posts)
The House of Assembly continued to sit through the month of June and a number of rural issues continued to pressed including, alternative energy (wind), energy efficiency program for non-profits, agriculture development, fleet separation, lobster co-op, wood cutting permit discounts for seniors, aquaculture, forestry certification, Regional Economic Development Boards, Englee & Sandy Cove fish plants, condition of primary & secondary roads, crown land & land use planning, a host of petitions and a number of other issues.
My first experience with a filibuster – Bill 29: Access to Information, which led to 70 hours of debate. Government passed a bill that increases secrecy and reduces transparency and accountability.
I participated in the annual Iceberg Festival and got to meet the Ennis sisters, Karen & Maureen for the first time. Also, continued to attend graduations in District.
July 2012: (1 post)
- Participated in Memorial Day events at St. Anthony Legion War Memorial
- NDP MP Ryan Cleary’s Empty Nets event: 20 Years after the Cod Moratorium
- Community Meetings: Roddickton-Bide Arm, St. Anthony, St. Lunaire-Griquet & Flower’s Cove, visted residents of Eddies Cove East
- Added Salmon Fest with Aerosmith in Grand Falls-Windsor
- Experienced the South Coast – visiting Bay D’Espoir, Belleoram, St. Alban’s and Harbour Breton.
- Camped on Brimstone Head on Fogo Island, met Philanthropist & visionary Zita Cobb, visited Seldom, Little Seldom, Fogo, Fogo Central, Joe Batt’s Arm (get Growler’s Ice-cream & eat at Nicole’s Cafe), Tilting and attended Stag Harbour Days
- Grand Opening of St. Anthony Come Home Year
- NDP MHA Dale Kirby (MHA, St. John’s North) visits Public Library, College of North Atlantic Campus, meets with residents in St. Lunaire-Griquet
- Re-opening of L’Anse aux Meadows UNESCO Site with Senator Norm Doyle
- Visited Green Island Cove & Englee residents
- Grand Opening of St. Lunaire-Griquet & Gunner’s Cove Come Home Year
August 2012 (0 posts):
- Announcement by Government that Englee Plant would be removed and site re-mediated
Disintegrating Englee Fish Plant
- Grand Opening of Main Brook Come Home Year
- Visit from NDP Leader Lorraine Michael (Sandy Cove, St. Anthony, Main Brook)
- Tour of Southern Labrador -Port Hope Simpson, Mary’s Harbour, West St. Modeste, Pinware, Forteau, L’Anse au Loup, L’Anse au Clair
- Grand Opening of Anchor Point & Deadman’s Cove Come Home Year
- Attended Canadian Public Accounts Committee Conferece in Iqaluit, Nunavut (Aug 19-21)
- Joan Simmonds, French Shore Historic Society Presented with Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal at MHA Tea Party
- 1st Public Accounts Committee Meeting after 6 years of dormancy
September 2012: (0 Posts)
- Labour Day with Federation of Labour and St. John’s District Labour Council at Swiler’s Rugby Club
- 102 NDP MP’s congregate in St. John’s/Hosts Kitchen Party at O’Reilly’s Pub on iconic George Street
- NDP Municipal Affairs Critic George Murphy (MHA St. John’s East) visited Town of Englee, toured Roddickton-Bide Arm, held St. Anthony Public meeting and discussed regionalization in The Straits
- Guest Speaker at St. Anthony & Area Chamber of Commerce
- Visited Czech Republic
- Toured Iceland Fish Plants, Buyer’s Markets, Geothermal Facilities, Gullfoss Waterfalls, Glaciers and many other natural wonders
- Spent a weekend in Copenhagen with friends from Switzerland and Sweden. Riding the World’s Oldest Rollercoaster and experiencing the culture
- Visiting Liverpool and taxi touring the old stomping groups of larger than life Beatles. Spent three days soaking up the culture and enjoyed visiting the Cavern.
October 2012: (6 posts)
- Participant at the International Fisheries Symposium held in Norris Point by CURRA
- Reflected on my first year in offices. There were accomplishments and so much more to achieve
- Suggested opportunities for expanding tourism opportunities
- Participated in Public Account Committee hearings
- NDP Convention
- Re-newed call to support sealing industry. Purchased sealskin coat to show support industry (see pictured below with co-owner, Kerry Shears of Natural Boutique).
- Met with protesters from Fortune on the steps of Confederation Building
- Turned 27
- Enjoyed Halloween as Professor Plum from Clue, made costumes from a Salvation Army visit. Those who know me well, know I collect Board Games.
November 2012: (10 Posts)
- Marketing Rural Newfoundland & Labrador dominated the postings
- Visit to residents of Englee, Great Brehat, Green Island Brook, Pine’s Cove and Shoal Cove East
- Attended Remembrance Day Ceremonies & annual hockey tournament in St. Anthony.
- House of Assembly re-opened November 19th
December 2012: (4 posts)
- Third ecounter meeting Ennis Sisters. They perform in St. Anthony
- Participate in the St. Anthony & St. Lunaire-Griquet Christmas Parades with Granny & Mummer’s
- Attend Straits Regional Fire Department Appreciation Dance
- Englee Christmas Tree Lighting & Diamond Jubilee Awards to Mayor Rudy Porter and Councillor Robert Keefe.
- SABRI Christmas Party
- Filibuster #2 – 86 hours that would run until December 22nd
- Fisheries Minister sells out Rural Newfoundland & Labrador Friday, December 21st at 7 PM (http://www.nlndpcaucus.ca/nr122112QuotaSellout)
- Returned home in time for Christmas Eve, wonderful holidays with my family
- Record-breaking mummer’s parade with 40 mummer’s participating in 3rd year
I’ve shared with you a sampling of some of my experiences during 2012. I’ve had the opportunity to visit many rural places on the Great Northern Peninsula, Newfoundland & Labrador and beyond. Many more than I’ve actually been able to write about; however, I look forward to sharing with you great ideas, great experiences and continue that great friendship in future posts of 2013.
Happy New Year to All -
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- Show Your Support for the Canadian Seal Hunt (liveruralnl.com)
- Government not doing enough for cod fishery, says FFAW (cbc.ca)
- 3rd Annual Mummer’s Walk Continues to Break Local Record (liveruralnl.com)
- Enchanting Englee on a November’s Day (liveruralnl.com)
- Marketing Rural Newfoundland & Labrador & the VTTA (liveruralnl.com)
- Year-round tourism would get boost from snowmobiling (christophermitchelmore.com)
- L’Anse aux Meadows, Newfoundland (tkmorin.wordpress.com)
- Caribou Crossing on Viking Trail (liveruralnl.com)
- Giving the Gift of something Handmade cannot be Beat (liveruralnl.com)
Giving the Gift of something Handmade cannot be Beat
As we celebrate the season of giving, I still believe the best presents are not the ones that can be bought on-line or at some retail outlet but those gifts without price tags attached – but the gifts one makes by hand.
How wonderful are the holidays when grandma comes with a deliciously handmade apple pie, just ready to put in the oven? How often do we look forward to Aunt’s fruitcake, cousin’s cookies or a friend’s cinnamon rolls? There are those that always make an ornament or holiday wreath. We have knitters and quilters that do it their way, knit and sew stitches with ultimate care. We all have those crafty friends and family members that take the time out to show they care. These types of presents are the gifts that simply can not be replaced.
I’d like to share with you some of the handmade items, I received this year for Christmas:
1.Hooked Rug: It is certainly not every day someone will give you a hooked rug. It takes many hours of time and dedication to end up with a finished product. I remember making my first and only hooked rug to date in Winter 2011. It took 50 hours to complete. Hooked rugs represent a time of economic development, especially for women, as Dr. Wilfred Grenfell encouraged women to make hooked rugs to help supplement family incomes. They still sell Grenfell rugs at the Grenfell Centre in St. Anthony today. I love this rug and everything it represents as it depicts a shrimp at sea – the lifeblood for many communities of the Straits-White Bay North. Without such fishing activity and processing our region would face much difficulty. It now hangs in my bedroom near the window, which boasts a view of the water. I can not thank the giver enough for what it means to be presented with such a gift! Please do keep up your efforts, as this hooked rug inspires me to push harder for the fishers and those who make their living from the sea.
2. Knitted Socks: My grandmother had included in her present a pair of knitted socks. I love them – a pair of knitted socks is to be coveted. I’ve already placed one on my feet when I attended the 3rd Annual Mummer’s Walk. The other foot had a striped knitted sock done by my Aunt Christina. These socks like others will find a home when I wear my seal skin boots or want to ensure my feet remain nice and cozy. These have been a tradition of Newfoundland & Labrador for centuries.
3. Sealskin Business Card Holder: A traditional-bark tanned sealskin has been designed to hold my braille business cards. I will use it proudly. We have such a history on the Great Northern Peninsula when it comes to sealing. For instance, St. Barnabas Church, Flower’s Cove is known locally as “sealskin boot church” because the building fund was provided by sales of women making and selling sealskin boots. This product will go nicely with my bark-tan wallet. Thank you SabrinaLisa for another incredible gift.
4. Handmade Quilt: My 81-year-old grandmother has given me a beautiful handmade quilt for Christmas that she made herself this year. She has always made lots of quilts throughout the years, but never one to call my own. Christmas 2012 is very special to have the gift of a handmade quilt from Nan. I’m not sure how many more she’ll make, but I hope she continues the tradition. I’m quite pleased to see at least a couple of her daughters have picked up the skill, keeping quilt-making in the family alive and well.
Traditions, culture and local knowledge should be passed on. I hope my liveruralnl.com blog continues to help document some of the many traditions, culture, heritage, history, landscapes and people of the Great Northern Peninsula.
Happy Holidays & New Year to All -
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay North
Related articles
- 3rd Annual Mummer’s Walk Continues to Break Local Record (liveruralnl.com)
- Marketing Rural Newfoundland & Labrador & the VTTA (liveruralnl.com)
3rd Annual Mummer’s Walk Continues to Break Local Record
The 3rd Annual Mummer’s Walk was the most successful to date, seeing increasing numbers across all age ranges from the two walks held in Flower’s Cove and Anchor Point, respectively. A total of 40 mummers or jannies participated in this year’s walk, with a wide range of ages from toddler to adult. There were so many, not all could fit in the photos. We even picked up a couple during the parade.
Can you guess which one I am?
At 3 PM the residents of the Straits congregated at the Savage Cove church basement and paraded around the community. The band of merry mummers waved at vehicles and those looking on from their windows. It was quite the sight!
There were big ones,
and small ones…
At the end, we all returned to the Church basement listened to the Mummer’s Song and other Christmas tunes. Everyone sat around enjoying a cup of hot chocolate, Purity syrup and other goodies. Special thanks to organizers Trudy C. and co-founder, Sabrina G. for continuing to ensure the mummer’s walk continues on the Great Northern Peninsula. As well, big thanks for all those who helped in any way and getting involved. It was great to see many families and youth interested in keeping a tradition that was so vibrant in rural Newfoundland & Labrador. Also, the Straits Food Sharing Association benefited from non-perishable food items.
We look forward to continued growth next year as the fourth annual will be set during the Christmas season. Please take the time this Christmas to go door to door, visit your friends and neighbours – find those old sheets, ugly sticks and pillow sacks. Happy jannying!
Live Rural NL -
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- 3rd Annual Mummer`s Walk – December 28th (liveruralnl.com)
- The Mummer’s, Granny & MHA join Christmas Parades (christophermitchelmore.com)
Rabbit with Sunday’s Dinner
Newfoundland & Labrador has a traditional Sunday’s Dinner with some form of meat, potatoes, turnip, carrot, cabbage (greens when available), peas pudding, salt meat, puddings and gravy.
Sunday’s Dinner is a meal that us rural Newfoundlanders & Labradorians look forward to, especially if grandmother is cooking it. A near mornings work with many pots, pans and hands in the kitchen serves up a delicious meal.
The rabbit was snared during last season. I look forward to getting a fresh one as this past weekend a light powder of snow fell on the Great Northern Peninsula. My father would spend a week or two after Christmas with his buddies in what we referred to as the rabbit camp, as it was located way inside the country. Each year, he always brought back a good bounty of rabbits for our family and his parents. I remember when I was younger, going in the woods with him to check his slips. He showed me how he set up the snares and how to increase your chances of catching a rabbit.
I do not eat rabbit that often, and still today only enjoy the legs. So there will be no fighting for the head when I sit at your table, as is in most cases. One memory that comes to mind when I eat rabbit, is off my late Uncle Douglas. He spent many hours in the countryside, trapping, snaring and berry picking. He would always supply me with a rabbit, either bringing it to my house or I would be equally as happy to go to his small trailer to pick it up. He may have been hard to understand at times, despite at times calling me or others a “Frenchman”. I believe this was his ironic sense of humour and whenever he was around he was a mountain of local knowledge as he knew the daily catch of local fishers and other happenings in the community. He would always ask if I spotted a moose or caribou on my drive from work and listening attentively for the answer with details. Uncle Douglas was a gentle man, who loved children and gave freely of what he had to the benefit of others. I miss sharing those conversations with you, but still enjoy a feed of rabbit whenever I get the opportunity.
RIP Uncle Doug.
I hope when traditional food is placed on your table, you can think of a memory, occasion or person that brings a smile to your face.
Live Rural NL-
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- A Cod Jigger Coat Hook (liveruralnl.com)
- Show Your Support for the Canadian Seal Hunt (liveruralnl.com)
A Cod Jigger Coat Hook
A couple of weekends ago I visited the St. John’s Arts & Culture Centre as the Craft Council had hosted their annual Christmas Fair. There were many artisans, artists and authors – all exhibiting their wares. A wide selection of textiles, stain glass, sculptures, Newfoundland & Labrador publishers, chocolates, ornaments, jewelry, photos, prints, sealskin and more.
I had made many purchases that day but I wanted to highlight my cod jigger coat hook in the photo below, which was handcrafted at the Green Family Forge.
The Green Family Forge has been a fixture in Trinity for more than 250 years in this province. The Trinity Historical Society proudly operates an active forge and has its handcrafted products for retail online. If you would like a custom-made product or purchase directly on-line to support one of our heritage industries their website is: http://www.trinityhistoricalsociety.com/shop_online.htm. The Historical Society realizes the importance of product development and gift shop sales to a non-profit. They have gotten creative by hammering out letter openers, coat hooks, fire pokers, key chains and more.
I am encouraged they are encompassing an important element of our culture, the “cod jigger” in a modern coat hook design that can be placed in the home or office. It is a conversation piece, a fixture – a realization that the cod fishery was the reason for the established permanent settlement in Newfoundland & Labrador.
Thirteen summers ago, I spent some time fishing cod with my father and had the opportunity to try my hand with the cod jigger. It will be a cherished memory, until I can take to the water and jig for cod again. This cod jigger coat hanger will be proudly placed in my home as a reminder of the importance of the cod jigger to our culture, heritage and history.
Live Rural NL -
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay North
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The Good Old Hockey Game
And the best game you can name is “the good old hockey game” (Stompin’ Tom Connors lyrics)
I spent some time over the Remembrance Day weekend watching the annual hockey tournament hosted at the newly built Polar Centre, St. Anthony. A total of 13 teams participated in the 19+ and 40 years of age and older category. Over the course of several games locals and expats showcased their talents. It was truly enjoyable to relax and enjoy the love of the game. I loved watching the players race after the puck, some in their mid-60s competing with those just rolling over 40 on the ice. Quite the dynamic!
Organized tournaments help boost the local economy through hotel stays, restaurants, beverage service, gasoline purchase and other retail sales. I have to admit that stadium poutine is one I recommend. Something about the chill in the air of crisp fries, melting cheese all smothered with gravy. Yum! It’s like getting your popcorn at the movie – a must!
I hope this is the first of many recreational and minor hockey games I’ll get to watch during the course of Fall and Winter. If you are visiting the Great Northern Peninsula, why not drop by one of our local stadiums to watch our talented youth and adults take to the ice? You could rent the ice or throw some rocks at the Polar Centre, as they have a curling option. As a curling fan of more than 20-years, I hope this year I’ll get to throw my first rock this season!
Arenas are avenues for Trade Shows, Conferences and Conventions. Let’s have that chili cook-off, traditional Newfoundland cooking competition or fishing exhibition locally. We have so many opportunities to exhibit our talents on ice or off. Our arenas are one of the many places you should consider visiting when you trek rural Newfoundland & Labrador!
Live Rural NL -
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
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