Blog Archives
It’s All About Regional Marketing…
In 2010, my mom and I traveled to Ireland. We rented a car and went from Cork-Kinsale-Killarney-Galway-Sligo-Belfast-Giant’s Causeway-Dublin-Kilkenny-Waterford-Wexford-London. Cork is Ireland’s second largest city (about the size of St. John’s, NL), however, just a short distance away is Kinsale, a small town that is known for its food culture. With 2,257 people it is about the size of St. Anthony on the Great Northern Peninsula. The regional marketing had us take the drive to the neighbouring community. It was an experience!
The Provincial Government has cut its marketing budget by 25%. Despite winning 183 awards and being internationally recognized, the market for the International, out-of-province and local market is highly competitive and stakeholders will have to do more to market their business to maintain their bottom lines. I believe it’s all about regional marketing, let’s pool our resources and develop vacation guides, business directory, updates, mini-sites and more in a modern Viking Trail Tourism website.
Check out how Kinsale market’s itself: http://kinsale.ie/.
The Great Northern Peninsula has many reasons for which one must visit. Here is a short-list:
- Gros Morne National Park, WORLD UNESCO Site – home to the Table Lands and 155,000 visitors annually.
- L’Anse aux Meadows, WORLD UNESCO Site – more than 1,000 years ago, the Vikings were the first Europeans to re-discover North America. The only authenticated North American viking site. Nearby, Norstead Viking Village & Port of Trade is home to the replica viking ship, the Snorri. Wonderful cuisine en route: The Daily Catch, Northern Delight, Snow’s Take-out and The Norseman Restaurant.
- Community of 50 Centuries, Bird Cove – for more than 5,000 the Maritime Archaic Indians, Paleo-Eskimo, Gros-Water Eskimo and recent Indians. As well, a Basque presence and Captain James Cook cairn. Port au Choix National Historic Site has unique interpretation of archaeology and history.
- The French Shore (Petit Nord) – Conche’s Interpretation Centre is home to a 222 ft tapestry depicting the French history, the Granchain Exhibit is found in St. Lunaire-Griquet
- Grenfell Historic Properties - highlights the legendary Sir Doctor Wilfred Grenfell, his International Association, residence and his economic development through the co-operative process. Grenfell Historical Foundation and Handicrafts remain an integral part of the continuing story. Grenfell Memorial Co-op is the Newfoundland & Labrador’s oldest consumer co-op. Nearby are the Jordi Bonet Murals, Northland Discovery Boat Tours, Polar Bear Exhibit & Fishing Point Park.
- Burnt Cape Ecological Reserve - home to more than 300 plants, 30 of which are rare and one Burnt Cape cinquefoil, which the Great Northern Peninsula is the only place in the world where this species grows. Raleigh is also home to a fishing village and carving shop.
- Leifsbudir – The Great Viking Feast is the only sod restaurant in North America, built into the rock of Fishing Point, St. Anthony
- GNP Craft Producers – a unique gift shop that makes seal skin products and shares the history of seal skin boot making. In nearby Flower’s Cove one will find “Seal Skin” boot church. The community is also home to thrombolites (existing on just a few places on earth).
- Deep Cove Winter Housing Site - a National Historic Site is an open air museum which highlights the way of life residents experienced in both summer and winter living. It is south of Anchor Point which is home to the peninsula’s oldest consecrated cemetery.
- Torrent River Salmon Interpretation Centre - the Interpretation centre in Hawke’s Bay is a must for the salmon enthusiast. Beyond the mighty Torrent, many salmon rivers exist in Main Brook. Roddickton-Bide Arm is a great place to also participate in recreational hunting and fishing, it is home to the natural Underground Salmon Pool.
An array of walking trails, nature, wildlife, icebergs, whales, recreational hunting and fishing, picturesque outport communities, attractions, shops, restaurants, crafts, festivals, events, local culture and heritage and people who will make any visit a treasured experience on the Great Northern Peninsula. We make need to take a page out of Kinsale’s book, and work as a region to pool our marketing resources and create a more dynamic on-line presence that takes in our region’s unique offerings!
Experience the Great Northern Peninsula & start planning your vacation today!
Live Rural NL -
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- What a view today on the Great Northern Peninsula… (liveruralnl.com)
- Inspired by our Lifestyle & Fishing Heritage (liveruralnl.com)
- Fishing Remains Our Mainstay (liveruralnl.com)
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)
Mitchelmore 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
Inspired 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.
Live Rural NL -
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)
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.
Live Rural NL -
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)
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)
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)
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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- Could the Harp be the Next Tourist Attraction? (liveruralnl.com)
- Mitchelmore: Change in fish selling would benefit harvesters, consumers (christophermitchelmore.com)
- Our Historic Raleigh in Newfoundland (not North Carolina) (liveruralnl.com)
- Year-round tourism would get boost from snowmobiling (christophermitchelmore.com)
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!
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- Taking to the Ice at Straits Arena, St. Barbe, NL (liveruralnl.com)
Enchanting Englee on a November’s Day
Englee has made the news over the past year on many occasions, but not for its natural beauty but for the eyesore and environmental hazard of the fish plant falling into the harbour. The plant has now been removed, site re-mediated and boasts a beautiful view of the harbour. This marks the end of era, as the plant was one of the province’s oldest fresh fish processing plants in the province. We must continue to build on the heritage of fishery, as it exists in and around every nook and cranny of this province.
Englee is at the end of Route 433, which was built around an abundant fishing resource. Some residents of re-settled Great Harbour Deep, Williamsport and Hooping Harbour. There is a real opportunity to capitalize on the heritage, as there is an established Heritage Home and much research undertaken of events and oral history compiled of local residents.
I encourage visitors to take the trek from Route 430 onto Route 432 (Grenfell Drive or cross-country road) and then to Route 433. You will not be disappointed with the views of fishing stages, rooms, individually built wharves, saltbox houses and other pieces of vernacular architecture. Drop by one of the three convenience stores or Cross Rocks Cafe to have a yarn. Walk the trails, look-outs and shore lines. Even on a warm November’s day, Englee is enchanting.
Enjoy island hopping as you explore!
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay North
Related articles
- Caribou Crossing on Viking Trail (liveruralnl.com)
Caribou Crossing on Viking Trail
The Great Northern Peninsula has many natural wonders from fjords to forests, rivers to seascapes and wondrous wildlife. For the nature lover, it is a place to explore.
This past Monday (November 12) when driving the Viking Trail (Route 430) en route to Englee I had to make an unexpected stop for the mighty caribou.
A total of four caribou had crossed the highway and not a hunter in sight. I had taken my professional camera and quickly grabbed it, only to find it was missing its memory card. Despite loss of time, I did manage a few photos with the camera on a Blackberry Torch. It was a wonderful sight! I drive the Viking Trail and Route 432 on a regular basis and on occasion get the pleasure of spotting these animals.
It is evident there has been a population decline of the caribou. As a child one would quickly regularly spot herds of caribou in the St. Paul‘s region or around the St. Anthony airport. A significant decline in population has local impacts on other animal populations, local food supplies, outfitting, eco-tourism and other economic and cultural opportunities.
When visiting the Great Northern Peninsula, you too may catch a glimpse of the mighty caribou, moose, array of birds or other wildlife on your journey. Keep your eyes peeled and safe travels!
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthBring Rural NL to Life on MHA’s 2012 Christmas Card
The Straits-White Bay North
Even with Grey Skies Gros Morne National Park is a Gem of the Great Northern Pen
Even when skies are grey, Gros Morne National Park is a gem to drive on the Great Northern Peninsula.
It never ceases to amaze me – the natural beauty of this Provincial wonder, that attracts 180,000+ people annually to visit this place. The reflection of the rock onto the glazed body of water is to be embraced with a warm smile.
I always spend some time at the National Park – there are many walking/hiking trails and an array of outdoor activities that include a Boat Tour of Western Arm Brook or kayaking in the heart of scenic Bonne Bay. Even the beginner can enjoy a cheap canoe rental at the KOA campground in Norris Point. I rented one for an hour for just $10.00.
No matter what age or interest, Gros Morne National Park is to be explored and experienced. After you have had your visit, be sure to head North for several days and it would also be a treat to add Labrador to your journey.
The Great Northern Peninsula awaits, whatever the season you choose to dig in and enjoy our nature, culture and lifestyle!
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay North
NL NDP Leader & MHA for The Straits-White Bay North to Hold Town Hall Meeting in Goose Bay
Join NL NDP Leader Lorraine Micheal (MHA Signal Hill – Quidi Vidi) and Christopher Mitchelmore (MHA The Straits – White Bay North) as they hold Town Hall Meeting in Labrador this week to hear your concerns, issues and ideas.
Be a part of the conversation…
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
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- MHA to hold Community Meeting In Conche, NL (liveruralnl.com)
- Housing Crisis Not Diminishing: Rogers (liveruralnl.com)
Central Park – New York City
Central Park is a wonderful concept at the heart of Manhatten. While in this special place, you will forget the flurry of activity that surrounds it as the tall buildings before forgotten and you focus on the trees, nature and pleasant surroundings. All around us were aromas of roasted chestnuts, dogs being walked and families spending their day together.
We walked the many trails, yet would need much more time to explore the far-reaching spaces. We saw the iconic horse and carriage rides – often depicted in the blockbuster films set in New York City. I think of the Seinfeld episode where Kramer is a driver.
On such a warm December day we opted to walk the inner parts of the park – passing the boat house, fountains, castle, Swiss cottage and various other monuments that make up this green space.
We stopped for several photo ops – but also stopped to catch our breath. I loved the park bench below and think this would be a great means to use driftwood and blow downs from the wind gusts that plague the Great Northern Peninsula.
I could spend my free time at Central Park, each and everyday. if I lived in New York City. However, it might not be such a practice – as in Rural Newfoundland & Labrador we have endless amounts of outdoor beauty and I do not always find myself getting outside and enjoy what is offered in my own backyard. My blog has helped me realize that the Great Northern Peninsula has such a unique offering to those who get to live it everyday. We should not take this for granted.
After seeing several ducks to feed, we decided to go outdoor skating in Central Park! I put on my bright orange socks and laced up the skates – off I went. I am not a very good skater, but as the MHA for the Straits-White Bay North, I certainly felt alive. There is energy in excise, just like there was with door-knocking, climbing stairs and jogging from morning until dusk. Skating in Central Park is magical – you often forget where you – unless you look up and see the towering buildings.
The view from all around is amazing.
We stopped and drank a nice hot cup of Starbucks Specialty Coffee and Whip. Our day at Central Park could be described as anything less than – Perfect!
I have since purchased a pair of ice skates and plan to practice – I will be satisfied with improving my stopping. I do not have any ambitions to enter the National Hockey League. However, if the Habs are ever looking for an Assistant Coach – there is no better person to hire than my Grandmother!
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Christopher C. Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthFirewood on the Hills – Grandois, NL
On January 24th, 2012 I returned to the quiet community of Grandois or St. Juliens (currently used interchangeably). In 1980 this community was connected via road to neighbouring Croque and to Main Brook – which remains today a 30 km gravel road craving some crush stone. Although, the blanket of snow cushioned the numerous potholes.
The view from the harbour is worth the ride. The tiny islands and hamlets showcase the remnants of re-settlement. During the summer a boat tour can be arranged to see the Ghost Towns that remain on these islands.
On this chilly day in January, one could see the chimneys burning, heating the homes. I stopped and took the photo of the tiers of firewood on the hill. A view of the community can be seen from here. There are very few homes, of which many are currently vacant. The closure of the cod fishery in 1992 – left the community, like many other outports struggling to survive.
The community of Grandois at its peak had 135 people. Today, those numbers have dropped drastically into the low double digits. Despite the population decline, limited water supply and lack of community services – the residents are extremely hospitable and a pleasure to talk about the past, present and future. We must savour the beauty this place offers the people who continue to call this place home. There is a wealth of history in this community on the French Shore. It may just be the next place you want to visit.
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- The Lonely Harbour… (liveruralnl.com)
The Newfoundland Squeezebox – Accordion
There are many long-lived traditions in Newfoundland – one of them is our love for the music. We have embraced the accordion as a means to get those feet stepping. My friend from Switzerland is giving my Grandfather’s Hohner Squeezebox a try. For those of you that know me, you all know I do not have a musical bone in my body, despite my attempts to sing karaoke or play an instrument. I’ll continue my musical fortunes as the drummer of K’s Kitt on Rockband.
I hope you enjoy the sounds of the accordion, as I do. It is powerful how the music can just lift your feet up and down, getting you in the mood to dance a jig!
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
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Housing Crisis Not Diminishing: Rogers
NDP Housing Critic Gerry Rogers (MHA, St. John’s Centre) says weekend news stories emphasize the urgent need for a division of government dedicated to the problems people everywhere in Newfoundland and Labrador are having finding places to live.
“We are clearly in the middle of a housing crisis,” Rogers said today. “This is particularly true for seniors and for people with complex needs, but it is an inescapable fact that all around this province, more and more people are unable to find shelter that is both affordable and appropriate to their needs. More and more people are becoming vulnerable to the housing market.”
Rogers says her office receives calls on a daily basis from all kinds of people – seniors, families, young people – at every income level. Housing issues include rental availability, accessibility, the cost of both renting and buying, supportive housing for seniors and people with complex needs and the condition of rental units.
With that in mind, she will be visiting several communities in the province to hear first-hand from people the challenges they are facing. Rogers and NDP MHA Christopher Mitchelmore (The Straits-White Bay North) will hold a series of open meetings beginning this Saturday in St. Anthony, and travelling in the following days to Norris Point, Stephenville, Corner Brook, Grand Falls-Windsor (TBA), and Clarenville (TBA).
- St. Anthony – Saturday, February 4, 2012 2-4 PM St. Anthony Lions Club
- Norris Point – Sunday, February 5, 2012 2-4 PM Town Hall
- Corner Brook – Monday, February 6. 2012 7-8:30 LC301 Grenfell Campus
“The provincial government must take action and bring together all levels of government, plus non-profits and business, to solve this problem,” Rogers said. “We are a province of 500,000 people. We can get this right. We can come up with innovative and creative solutions that work for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Should you have questions, please contact Christopher Mitchelmore at cmitchelmore@gov.nl.ca or Gerry Rogers at gerryrogers@gov.nl.ca.
The Old Wood Stove
The old wood stove has provided heat to Newfoundland & Labrador homes for hundreds of years. Like many rural homes, the primary source of heat is wood – which helps to keep demand for electricity low.
At the cabin – one simply can not miss out on the experience of enjoying a cup of tea made from the pristine pond water and boiled on the stove. We enjoyed a lovely breakfast of eggs, bacon and toast with Tetley tea.
I remember as a child making toast bread using an old wire coat hanger. Those hangers are getting harder and harder to come by. So if you have one, keep it for the cabin so you too can make toast over the heat of the old wood stove.
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthA Feed of Moose Meat in the Woods
A little salt and a shake of pepper at the flavour to savour as I cook the moose patties and thin moose steaks. The result – A double moose cheese burger, steak and well we had some hash browns as a side. This is not a menu item you will find at McDonalds or other fast food chains in Newfoundland & Labrador. If you are lucky you may find a restaurant or two that actually sells moose on the menu. This is surely not for lack of demand. Moose Burgers are a hot item at Jackladder Gas Station outside Deer Lake on Route 430 or the MayFlower Inn & Adventures, Roddickton, NL.
Since we had an extra burger we opted to share between the three, creating the 1/3 burger not the 1/3 pounder or 1/4 pounder but the 1/3 burger. Maybe these will catch on with a toothpick as a party appetizer?
The Great Northern Peninsula would not be the place it is today without a feed of moose. We have to be careful, and may need to reduce licences in the Straits-White Bay North as moose are getting scarce. Even in the Moose Capital of the World – Roddickton, there are fewer and fewer moose.
If you get the opportunity when visiting, try a moose burger! Why are moose not being ranched to produce moose meat for retail at supermarkets and restaurants on a larger scale, without impacting the annual hunt?
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- Caribou Crossing – Viking Trail (Route 430) Great Northern Peninsula (liveruralnl.com)
- Caribou Stew – Don’t Mind If I Do! (liveruralnl.com)
Treat Abandoned Englee Plant like the Emergency it is: Mitchelmore
Taken January 26, 2012
NDP Fisheries Critic Christopher Mitchelmore (The Straits-White Bay North) is demanding the provincial government deal with the decaying former fishplant in Englee before something tragic happens in the Northern Peninsula community.
“The Provincial Government has failed to commit to the clean-up of the abandoned Englee fish plant, for which it is ultimately responsible,” said Mitchelmore. “On January 26, the roof of the structure collapsed. This was nearly eight years after the company that had been operating the plant abandoned it. Community representatives have been calling for the plant’s removal ever since, but government is apparently ignoring them.
“It is obvious to me this Government does not have a plan to deal with crisis situations” says Mitchelmore. “This dangerous situation in Englee could have been prevented and should be a lesson for this Government. Nobody was hurt this time, but there’s no guarantee about what will happen next time a portion of that plant falls down.”
Mitchelmore says the situation in Englee should be raising alarm bells in every community in the province with a fishplant. “What will stop Ocean Choice International, for example, from similarly walking away from communities in which it currently does business – or from plants it has closed?” Mitchelmore asked. “The Province must enact legislation to hold companies accountable, especially fish processers that are benefiting from the people’s resource.
“It is time to give communities control over their resources, entering into a royalty agreement with a processor,” he said. “If Government continues to give away our fishery to irresponsible processors, any town in Newfoundland and Labrador could be facing a crisis similar to the one in Englee.”
http://www.nl.ndp.ca/nr012712EngleePlantHazard
Related articles
- Mitchelmore questions future of Marystown facility (liveruralnl.com)
- Abandoned Englee Fish Plant, Abandoned by Government (liveruralnl.com)
Weather is unpredictable in Rural Newfoundland & Labrador
My friends from Europe quickly found out how the weather can change on the Great Northern Peninsula. There were days when it felt like we experienced the Four Seasons – and I am not talking hotels.
I think gloves were probably in order?
The ice can quickly build as temperatures can be warm to freezing at almost any moment. There were days on the vacation when my friends could see the Strait of Belle Isle start freezing. Although, it is not until late February or early March that the pack ice typically block the Straits. It often boggles my mind why the Labrador Ferry does not continue its run to St. Barbe longer than mid-January?
I will have to settle for the beads of ice on my Honda Civic and stare at the power of the ocean – while I dream of the warm sandy beaches of the South. This is just the beginning of the snow, ice and outdoor amusement.
Winter is incredible for the outdoors enthusiast on the Great Northern Peninsula, just make sure you have an ice scraper and brush in your vehicle as it will come in handy.
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Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
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The Straits-White Bay North Constituency Office – Opens Public Art Gallery
Christopher Mitchelmore, MHA for The Straits-White Bay North invites all local artists to provide one or two sample paintings, prints, hooked rugs, wall hangings or other art forms to be placed on display in the public space of our local constituency office located at:
Public Building PO Box 620 279-82 West Street St. Anthony, NL A0K 4S0We ask that all art be submitted with name, telephone number, mailing address, brief story behind the art and the artist. All proceeds from sales will be directed back to the local artist.
The Public are invited to drop by the Constituency Office (pictured above) or schedule an appointment to meet with the MHA to discuss concerns, issues or ideas.
Email: cmitchelmore@gov.nl.ca Toll-Free: 1-888-729-6091 Tel: 709-454-2646 Live Rural NL - Christopher C. Mitchelmore, MHA The Straits-White Bay NorthRelated articles
- MHA to Hold Public Meetings at All Towns in District (liveruralnl.com)
