Entertainment

Wednesday April 10, 2024

Canada's diminishing military stature amidst rising global tensions, exemplified by Russia's aggression in Ukraine and the lasting effects of former U.S. President Donald Trump's rhetoric, underscores the urgent need for renewed prioritization and investment in Canadian defence, especially as NATO celebrates its 75th anniversary.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday April 10, 2024

Canada’s Defence Dilemma: A Legacy Fading Under the Stars and Stripes

May 29, 2002

As NATO celebrates its 75th anniversary amidst rising global tensions, Canadians are grappling with a troubling reality: our once-vibrant military legacy is fading under the shadows of American security alliances. This sobering moment comes at a time of heightened geopolitical turbulence, exacerbated by Russia’s brazen invasion of Ukraine and the lingering spectre of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s rhetoric threatening NATO’s cohesion.

News: NATO at 75: Is Canada losing its grip on the world’s greatest military alliance?

Canada must enhance efforts to meet NATO’s 2% defence spending target, reinforcing its obligations and commitments to global security.

March 1, 2024

The recent announcement of increased defence spending by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government, while a step forward, is also a stark reminder of years of neglect and misplaced priorities. Trudeau, suddenly pandering to calls for bolstering Canada’s defence, has had ample time since assuming office in 2015 to reverse the decline of our military capabilities. Instead, successive governments have allowed our armed forces to languish, reflecting a lack of will to prioritize and invest in our own defence.

Canada’s journey from a post-war military powerhouse to a nation dependent on American security alliances can be traced back to the gradual erosion of our military capabilities. The decline began with decisions made decades ago to let our military infrastructure deteriorate, coupled with a societal shift that undervalued the importance of investing in our national defence.

Donald Trump's recent remarks, cheering on aggression against NATO countries, and Canada's position as a buffer between Russia and potential U.S. instability, highlight the urgent need for a rethink on global security.

February 13, 2024

The spectre of Russia’s aggression in Ukraine underscores the urgent need for Canada to reclaim its role as a stalwart defender of democratic values and international security. However, our ability to project strength and credibility on the global stage has been compromised by years of underinvestment and strategic complacency.

Moreover, the unsettling rhetoric of former U.S. President Donald Trump, who openly mused about abandoning NATO and questioned the value of collective defence, sent shockwaves through the alliance. While Trump’s presidency has come to an end, the echoes of his disruptive rhetoric continue to reverberate, casting doubt on America’s steadfast commitment to its NATO allies. Now, with Trump hoping for a return in the 2024 election as the Republican presidential candidate, the prospect of renewed uncertainty in U.S. foreign policy looms large.

Opinion: Sham defence review shows Canada will never meet its commitments to NATO allies  

November 17, 2015

Prime Minister Trudeau’s sudden pivot towards bolstering defence spending seems reactive rather than proactive, highlighting a broader pattern of neglect towards our military forces. It’s a far cry from the era when Canada asserted its sovereignty by distancing itself from the security umbrella of the United Kingdom.

As we mark NATO’s milestone anniversary amidst geopolitical uncertainty, it’s time for Canadians to reassess our priorities and reclaim our legacy as a nation that values and invests in its military. Our armed forces deserve better than years of neglect and half-hearted commitments. Let’s heed the lessons of history and renew our dedication to a strong, independent, and capable Canadian military—one that reflects the values and aspirations of our nation. (AI)

 

Wednesday May 3, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday May 3, 2023

Gordon Lightfoot (November 17, 1938 – May 1, 2023)

Gordon Lightfoot was more than just a singer-songwriter; he was a cultural icon whose music helped shape Canadian identity and inspired audiences worldwide. His unique blend of folk, country, and pop music, combined with his gift for storytelling, captured the hearts of millions and cemented his place in music history. Lightfoot’s impact on Canadian culture is undeniable.

News: Canadian folk music icon Gordon Lightfoot dead at 84  

August 24, 2013

Through his music, he celebrated the natural beauty of Canada, weaving stories of the land, its people, and its history. Songs like “Canadian Railroad Trilogy” and “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” became anthems of Canadian identity and pride, reflecting the spirit and resilience of the country and its people. Beyond Canadian borders, Lightfoot’s music resonated with audiences worldwide. His songs spoke to universal themes of love, loss, and the human experience, making him one of the most respected and admired singer-songwriters of his time.

However, Lightfoot was not immune to criticism. Some felt that his work could be repetitive, maudlin, sentimental, and nostalgic, and did not appeal to younger, more diverse audiences. Critics often pointed out that Lightfoot’s music seemed to rely on similar themes and motifs, and his ballads could come across as sentimental and overly nostalgic. Some argued that he struggled to adapt to changing musical tastes and remained firmly rooted in the folk and country traditions of the past. Additionally, Lightfoot’s music was often associated with an older, more conservative demographic, and it did not always resonate with younger, more diverse audiences.

Despite these criticisms, Lightfoot remained a beloved and influential figure in Canadian music. His impact on Canadian culture cannot be overstated, and his ability to capture the essence of the Canadian landscape and spirit continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans. He was a symbol of Canadian culture and a role model for aspiring musicians, inspiring generations of Canadian artists who followed in his footsteps and contributed to the country’s rich musical heritage.

News: Anne Murray, Jim Cuddy and Prime Minister Trudeau remember a quintessential Canadian, Gordon Lightfoot  

March 8, 2013

In a time when Canadian culture was often overshadowed by its larger neighbor to the south, Lightfoot’s music helped put Canada on the map. He showed the world that Canada was more than just a cold and distant land, but a place of beauty, creativity, and resilience. Ultimately, while Lightfoot’s music may not have been to everyone’s taste, it remains a testament to his enduring talent and the power of music to unite and inspire. His passing is a great loss to the music world, but his music will continue to be celebrated and enjoyed for years to come. (AI)

 

Tuesday February 21, 2022

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday February 21, 2022

Netflix Canada is cracking down on password sharing

Gone are the days where one Netflix account could be shared amongst people who don’t share the same roof.

September 29, 2017

Netflix Canada began informing users earlier this month via email stating their accounts would be limited to users they lived with. This comes as the streaming service reports declining revenue, and as Netflix seeks to grow subscribers after years of relying on password sharing to build word-of-mouth for its TV series and films.

“Got home and was kicked off the family Netflix,” one user tweeted Thursday morning about the crackdown.

“Have to cancel my Netflix because they gave me 10 days notice to sign into my primary location and I am away right now,” tweeted another. “Whose idea was this?”

Of course, it was the streaming giant’s idea, and one it says was prompted by its exploration of how to address the issue of password sharing that impacts the “ability to invest in great new TV and films.

”But it’s not going over well some with subscribers, who also fear competing streaming services will follow suit and lock their loved ones out of their accounts.”

September 24, 2014

Netflix says more than 100 million households share accounts, and began “exploring different approaches” to address the issue in Latin America over the last year.

In the coming months, Netflix users in Canada, New Zealand, Portugal and Spain will be reminded “a Netflix account is intended for one household” and members will have to set a primary location.

Under the rules, premium and standard account holders can “buy an extra member slot” for $7.99 per month each.

For that price, premium high-definition 4K subscribers — who pay $20.99 per month — can add up to two members who don’t live in their household.

Standard subscribers, who pay $16.49 per month, can add one additional member for the same additional monthly fee.

Basic plans, which cost $9.99, and ad-supported plans, which cost $5.99, will not be able to add more members. (Toronto Star) 

 

Wednesday December 8, 2021

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday December 8, 2021

Justin Bieber performs in Saudi Arabia despite calls for boycott over human rights

August 10, 2018

Canadian pop star Justin Bieber performed to a packed crowd in the Red Sea city of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, singing some of his most popular hits. The Sunday night concert took place even as human rights campaigners and activists called on Bieber to cancel his performance to protest the kingdom’s arrests and crackdown on critics.

Bieber’s model wife, Hailey Baldwin Bieber, posted a supportive video on Instagram of him on stage, with the words: “Go Baby.” Other videos on social media showed Bieber on stage solo, wearing a co-ordinated red outfit. Pop and R&B singer Jason Derulo performed before Bieber with backup female dancers in sweatpants and baggy tops.

August 8, 2018

Only a few years ago, this would have been an unthinkable scene in Saudi Arabia, where ultraconservative norms prevailed. Concerts were banned and unmarried men and women were segregated in public spaces. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is behind the sweeping changes as he works to modernize society, attract foreign investment and create jobs for youth.

Human Rights Watch and others, however, have called on celebrities to boycott the kingdom, saying such events are aimed at diverting attention and deflecting scrutiny from Saudi Arabia’s human rights record.

August 2, 2017

Bieber was the biggest name performer to take the stage as part of Saudi Arabia’s Grand Prix, which saw Lewis Hamilton win ahead of the last race of the Formula One season.

Bieber has not commented on the public pressure surrounding his performance and calls for him to cancel the show. Weeks before his show in Saudi Arabia, the fiancee of slain Saudi critic Jamal Khashoggi joined a chorus of voices urging him not to perform at the kingdom’s F1 race.

In an open letter published by The Washington Post, Hatice Cengiz had urged the megastar to cancel his performance to “send a powerful message to the world that your name and talent will not be used to restore the reputation of a regime that kills its critics.” She noted that the decision to host the F1 race and invite a star like Bieber “comes directly” from the crown prince.

November 13, 2012

Bieber’s concert in Saudi Arabia comes shortly before he opens a world tour next year. The tour is being promoted by Live Nation, the company that owns Ticketmaster. Saudi Arabia’s state-owned sovereign wealth fund — steered by Prince Mohammed — is among the largest institutional holders in Live Nation, with a stake worth some $1.4 billion US. (CBC) 

Meanwhile, Tim Hortons has teamed up with pop superstar Justin Bieber to launch three new Timbit flavours — called Timbiebs — along with co-branded merchandise. (Global) 

 

Thursday April 29, 2021

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday April 29, 2021

Ontario details plan for 3 paid sick days after a year of mounting pressure

April 23, 2021

After months of urgent calls about the need for paid sick leave by medical professionals, labour advocates, political leaders and even top doctors from some of the province’s hardest-hit regions, the Ontario government has announced a plan to provide three paid sick days through a temporary program ending in September.

The proposed Ontario COVID-19 Worker Protection Benefit Program would pay up to $200 per day for workers who are sick, have symptoms, have a mental health issue or need to be vaccinated, and will be retroactive to April 19. The sick days would not need to be taken consecutively and no sick note is required.

If the legislation is passed, the program will be administered through the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board and employers will be reimbursed in full, the province says.

April 16, 2020

Speaking to reporters Wednesday, Ontario Labour Minister Monte McNaughton also said the province has offered to provide funding to the federal government to double the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit payments, adding an additional $500 per week to eligible individuals, for a total of $1,000 per week.

Ottawa earlier this week rejected an offer by the province to top up the program, saying the federal benefit is designed to support workers who don’t have a regular employer, or as a stop gap until their province mandates paid sick days.

Last week, Premier Doug Ford pledged that Ontario would soon unveil details of a paid sick leave program, claiming it would be “the best program anywhere in North America, bar none.”

But as reported by CBC News, the Ford government initially sought to top up the federal program, rather than create its own. On the same day as Ford’s emotional news conference, Ontario’s finance minister wrote a letter to the federal government proposing to top up Canada’s sick leave benefit. 

October 8, 2020

Critics have long pointed out the federal benefit pays less than a full-time minimum wage job, involves days, if not weeks, of processing time and doesn’t guarantee job security for workers who use it.

The cost of the proposal announced today was not included in the provincial budget, unveiled in March.

Unlike Quebec and Prince Edward Island, where sick days are in place permanently, Ontario’s proposed program ends in just five months. The province has has passed legislation that protects workers’ jobs if they can’t work due to a COVID-19 diagnosis. (CBC)

Letters to the editor –  The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday May 1, 2021

Blame Trudeau, not Ford

I have to say I was aghast at the editorial cartoon of Doug Ford being whipped. It is no secret that The Spec is no fan of Mr. Ford, however to publish him being whipped and the prime minister watching is way over the line of decency and respect. Has he made mistakes, of course, some big ones, however keep in mind it is the prime minster, who you show sitting eating popcorn, who is ultimately responsible for this mess, due to poor vaccine procurement. There is enough blame to go around these days. I fail to see what this piece of work does to move anything forward.

Robert Hague, Burlington

Outraged at cartoon

I usually enjoy Mr. MacKay’s editorial cartoons, although he can push the envelope at times.

But I must profess my outrage at Thursday’s depiction of the premier of Ontario being publicly flogged. We are constantly preaching about being against violence and hate in our province but here is a depiction of an act of torture aimed at the leader of the province. People may or may not like Doug Ford and have their own opinions but this is going too far!

Rick Allen, Hamilton Mountain

Trudeau didn’t belong there

This cartoon was spot on about Ford. But putting Trudeau in was unfair. Dealing with employers is provincial jurisdiction and it’s Ford’s problem to solve, not Trudeau’s.

Sarah Mueller, Burlington