Hello my foreign friends! It has been almost an entire month since I have updated this immaculately-coded blog! And, that means that you're going to be in for one hell of a long blog update that is based upon my incredibly-boring and mundane life. So, welcome to hell.
On October 21, 2009, I voted in an advance poll in the 2009 Saskatoon Civic Elections. In that advanced poll, I found myself voting for the current mayor, despite telling people that I voted for Steve Lawrance. What? Did you really think I'd vote for a fringe candidate? I decided to vote for Mr. Atchison, because I dislike Lenore Swystun. Later that day, I decided to buy a reloadable Starbucks Card to make things more convenient for myself. Why? Well, I started to have an addiction to Starbucks Coffee's Iced Coffee with Milk and found myself buying one everyday at their University of Saskatchewan Learning Commons location. I solely blame Andrew Pang for this addiction. So, the reloadable card is still in my possession today. Later that day, I got my book review from my history class back. On that assignment, I received a mark of 58%. That is amazing, considering the fact that I wrote the review the night before it was due, and that I did not even read the book I "reviewed." And, to top that off, I enjoyed reading the comments the professor made. One of them said that the paper shows an effort to relate the book review to a quote in the book, but it was not good enough. Anyway, later that day, I went home and slept, and eagerly awaited the release of the new Windows 7 operating system. What? What are you waiting for? Click on the link!
Thursday, October 22, 2009 was a very important day! Why? Well, it was because Microsoft released their long-awaited Windows 7 operating system. I purchased a licence key and downloaded the upgrade version of Windows 7 Professional for $39.99 (plus $13.00 for the back-up DVD). If you are a post-secondary student and are interested in purchasing an upgrade version, you can click here for more information. Later that day, I got my sociology midterm back. I failed to study, and received a mark of 53%. Well, that's lucky, I guess. However, the professor himself gave everyone a passing mark if they failed. And later that day, I fired up my hippie eco-gas barbeque grill and grilled some pork chops, or as some Chinese-speaking people call it, "BBQ pork." And in the evening, I called up Zheng Wang, who told me a girl had asked him out. Sadly, today, he is no longer dating that girl. As it seems, Mr. Wang may be up to no good over in Rochester, New York. Sadly, he still has not done anything stupid, and therefore, has not ended up on the news, yet. When he appears on the ten o'clock news on FOX WUHF-TV in Rochester, I'll be in the comfort of my own home here in Saskatoon, watching that newscast. Hopefully, he'll do something stupid, soon, as I'd really like to see him on the news... from Rochester. As a result, I encourage him to something stupid... now!
As of October 23, 2009, a good number of the baristas at the Starbucks Coffee location at the University of Saskatchewan have learned my "usual," which is the Iced Coffee with Milk. In fact, there is one young lady named Lisa, who usually tends to prepare my drink for me before I even pay for the drink. Now... that's kick-ass! In fact, I no longer have to say "Iced Coffee with Milk." Someone will always ask, "Did you want the usual?!" Later that day, I made a stop at Fuddruckers... and I'm glad that I did, because that burger was great! But, before heading home, I decided to stop at that evil computer joint, OTV Technologies, to purchase a one-terabyte hard disk drive for no apparent reason. But, while I was there, I saw Russel Kennedy, who got married earlier this year, but did not invite me to his wedding. He told me that I could go to the ceremony before he got married, but then he subsequently disappeared for a while, and then reappeared on that Friday afternoon. So, instead of going home immediately, I took a walk around the downtown area, and specifically to the site of 3rd Avenue and 22nd Street East. At this point, City crews were finally installing the new traffic signals at the intersection. To see a picture, click here. In that picture, you can see how lazy the City crews are.
October 24, 2009 was a day that my cousins Ky and Tho came over... and stunk up my house for the day. But, during that same day, I prepared for the deployment of the newly-released Windows 7 operating system. Sadly, since it was a Saturday, I had to work that night. But earlier in the day, I stopped by that Randy River joint at the Midtown Plaza because Tammy Poorman and Alicia Poorman were working. And of course, it is always fun to bug Tammy! This visit came after a visit to the Starbucks Coffee location there that resulted in disappointment: I was told that the Iced Coffee with Milk was "discontinued." Eventually, I went to the location about a block away at the corner of 2nd Avenue South and 22nd Street East, and they made me an Iced Coffee with Milk, even though it was bitter. However, the true highlight of my day was when I saw what the Saskatoon Co-op was selling at their stores. To see what I mean, click here. Yeah, I thought something like that was only on Seinfeld! Later that night, Ky and Tho would head to North Battleford, and eventually to that grungy city they call Edmonton. Speaking of North Battleford, their Member of Parliament (Battlefords - Lloydminster) is Gerry Ritz, who is the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food for the Government of Canada. Anyway, that day eventually came to an end. Yeah, it was obviously boring.
October 25, 2009 would prove to be another boring day, as there were no new episodes of my favourite FOX shows. However, it wouldn't be boring for long, as I deployed the new Windows 7 operating system. Overall, the installation took place in under 20 minutes. The installation went well, and everything worked well, at the time. I did have problems with some hardware, but Windows XP Mode will work, for now. A piece of hardware that hasn't worked with Windows 7 yet, is my HP LaserJet P1005 laser printer. So far, HP has promised that they are working on a driver that should be available before the end of the month. Right now, I wish they would hurry up, as I am sick of loading Virtual PC just to use my own laser printer. Aside from deploying Windows 7, I did barbeque some burgers I bought at the Real Canadian Superstore the day before. At the time, I was able to purchase some PC Blue Menu Portion Wise burgers for $0.99 per eight-pack. As a result of the pricing, I purchased two boxes. And, those burgers weren't so bad. And for $0.99, you've got nothing to lose. Eventually, I started to miss Windows XP somewhat. But overnight, however, I totally had a screwed up, but funny dream. It involved me, Reverend Nathan Dutnall and the Honourable John Baird, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. In this dream, Reverend Nathan Dutnall and I, concoct some sort of nonsensical and unconventional plan. And, in this dream, Mr. Baird not only approves of the nonsensical plan, he also helps us pursue it. Now, as for that nonsensical plan, I don't remember what the plan was... but I'm pretty sure it was nonsensical, and funny.
Skipping through Monday, and moving onto Tuesday, October 27, 2009, well, I don't remember much from that day. So, it was obviously pretty boring. Well, I did see a vehicle parked across four parking spots the day before. To see a picture, click here.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009 was the day that Saskatchewan's municipalities went to the polls. On the bright side, Saskatoon kicked Regina's ass when it came to voter turnout. However, voter turnout in Saskatoon was still at 27% or some dismal number like that. Anyway, here in Saskatoon, Mayor Don Atchison held onto the mayor's chair for a third term. As for City Council itself, it was exactly like the previous City Council, literally. Every single member of City Council, including the mayor, was re-elected. So, Mayor Don Atchison is the mayor of our beautiful city, again. All ten councillors in Saskatoon... are still the same councillors representing the same wards, again (although the boundaries have changed). But, I am still happy with the result, even if Myles Heidt is still a city councillor. I'd rather suffer through him being a councillor than Lenore Swystun being the mayor, or both. And later that day, I watched a video of Dr. Carolyn Bennett questioning the Conservative government during "question period" that I found really, really funny. To see the video, click here.
Skipping a couple of days to Friday, October 30, 2009, I had to go to work. And, by now, you should already know how much I dislike work. Well, I thought I'd hate work that night... but due to some downtime, I was able to put myself in an "aux" mode (while still getting paid) from 9:45 PM until 11:20 PM. That was eventually extended to 12:30 AM, and then 1:00 AM, which was the end of my shift. So, during those three hours and fifteen minutes, I took one call. That would eventually end the last Friday of October.
On October 31, 2009, the day people refer to as "Halloween," I went to go see that movie, Michael Jackson's This Is It, which received praise from fans, including Peter Poorman. Eventually, I went to work, and waited for the month to end. That day was truly boring!
November 1, 2009 was the beginning of a new month. Sadly, there still wasn't a new episode of my favourite television shows on FOX. On the other hand, I'd like to throw eggs at Mark King's car. And yes, I would be willing to travel to Regina just to do so, if I knew where Mr. King lived. Later that day, I continued working on my essay for my political studies class about appointed senators and why the Senate should just be abolished. Obviously, the first day of this month was incredibly boring. Sadly, it will be that way the entire month.
The next day would be a little more exciting, as I learned that the Right Honourable Stephen Harper pointed out one important flaw: you can't give anybody the finger if you're wearing those red Vancouver 2010 Olympic mittens. Well, that's a shame. For complete details, click here. However, what I saw later that day on television kind of scared me. To see what scared me, click here. And during that same day, Prince Charles and his wife Camilla came to Canada, landing in Cupids, Newfoundland. I was a little excited, but what really surprised me was that Prince Charles was speaking French. And during the evening of November 2, I watched a new episode of Two and a Half Men. Speaking of that show, I am glad that Jake Harper is not a real character. If he was a real character, and I had to chance to meet this "character," I think I'd slap the kid. Anyway, that should conclude the night of November 2, 2009.
Moving onto Tuesday, I saw Jesse Sayese on the bus on the way to school. It was his first day as a manager for the Randy River store at The Centre Mall. I assumed that he would be taking the same bus route at the same time every morning. However, I told him that he was taking the bus 30 minutes too early, and then he thanked me for the tip. As a result, he no longer takes the bus the same time as I do anymore. Maybe I should have kept my mouth shut. But other than that, that day was pretty boring. But later that day, I thought about the name Yogi Huyghebaert, and realized that it wasn't weird. It's incredibly kick-ass. In case you don't know who he is, he is the Minister of Public Safety and Policing for the Government of Saskatchewan. Anyway, on that day, I started planning my next trip to a Real Canadian Superstore somewhere in Saskatchewan that is outside of Saskatoon. Saskatchewan has seven locations in total: two in Saskatoon and Regina, one in Prince Albert, Moose Jaw and Yorkton. So far, I have been to every store in Saskatchewan, with the exception of the two locations in Moose Jaw and Yorkton. So, the next question is: should I visit Moose Jaw or Yorkton? Based on feedback from seven people, four of them have said I should visit Moose Jaw. It has been a hard decision, as Yorkton doesn't seem to be cool. As for Moose Jaw, I suspect that they do have something cool to check out, including the Tunnels of Moose Jaw. Later that night, I finished up my essay on appointed senators and how they should be abolished, which was due the next day. Kojo Anaman, however, loves the appointed Senate, and would like to see it continue. In fact, Mr. Anaman has said that he is all about the appointed Senate and that he plans to use it as his "retirement home." Hopefully, the Senate will be elected by the time he reaches the age of 30, therefore making it tougher for him to become a Senator. Plus, I hope that there is no Liberal government by that time. Again, that last part there was just to spite Mr. Anaman, as he knows how much I dislike Michael Ignatieff and the Liberal Party of Canada in general. Now, although I was finished with one essay at that point, I would have another two essays that were due two weeks later. More information will follow...
Now, at this point (Novembe4 4), an interesting development occurred. Every morning on the way to the campus, I take the Saskatoon Transit DART 70 (Silverspring) route from the downtown bus terminal. The transit operator that usually drives the bus has a tendency to make a simple error at the "intersection" of Bottomley Avenue and College Drive. Usually, when making left turns, transit operators usually try to make their turn on the amber light. However, this is often difficult, as there are pedestrians out there who start crossing the street before the walk light appears for them. And since these pedestrians often like to cross the street halfway before they even get the walk light, they end up on the median, and then they move before they even get the walk light. As a result, some of them usually come close to being hit by the bus, forcing the driver to honk the horn, and possibly perform the "Dangerously Silly Move." On that day, the transit operator came close to hitting seven pedestrians. Thinking that it was hilarious, I started to keep track some days. So far, that specific transit operator's record is 20. But, what was interesting that day was what I learned in my political studies class. I learned about the notwithstanding clause within the Constitution Act, 1982, which includes the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The Constitution includes a notwithstanding clause, which allows a provincial government or the federal government to opt-out of the Constitution. The reason is because most provinces originally opposed the idea, as they were against individual rights. In an attempt to sweeten the deal, Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau was forced to make concessions. As a result, he allowed the provinces or the federal government to opt-out of the Constitution for any reason they wanted to, any time they felt like it, for a renewable term of five years. So, here's one hell of a whacky example: if the Government of Saskatchewan decided to throw me in prison just because they didn't like me, the Supreme Court of Canada would rule the new law/bill unconstitutional, if someone were to challenge it (I don't imagine anyone besides me would challenge the law, as I can be pretty annoying). Since it is considered unconstitutional, the Government of Saskatchewan could exercise the right to opt-out of the Constitution, therefore making it possible for me to be in prison just because the Government of Saskatchewan doesn't like me. And, for some reason, I started having cravings for some turkey. As a result, I actually bought a stuffed turkey for $40.00. But, the most important thing about November 4, 2009 was that it would be my last History 259 class for two whole weeks, and that was something to celebrate! Otherwise, that was it for that day. But, as for that notwithstanding clause, if I could make a law that prevented David Couchman or Andrew Pang from calling me, I would totally be willing to use the notwithstanding clause to make it happen.
November 5, 2009 started out as a dismal day. At the intersection of College Drive and Bottomley Avenue, only six pedestrians came close to being hit. And for some reason, I was really angry throughout the entire day. Later that day, when I came home, I really wanted some fried chicken from KFC. However, I was too lazy to drive to my local restaurant, so I checked out their website to see if Saskatoon's locations offered delivery. Apparently, they didn't. Eventually, I lugged myself into my car and drove myself to KFC just for some chicken. But, for some reason, Chelsea Breher is disappointed in me because I like KFC, even though she worked there when she lived in Regina. But on the way home, I saw Daniel Couchman walking home from school, after getting off of a Saskatoon Transit bus, and drove towards his general direction to scare him. Later that day, I saw that movie called Whatever Works, just because Larry David was in it. However, I have learned that just because Larry David is in a movie, it doesn't necessarily make the movie a good movie. And in the evening, I listened to a portion of Rush Limbaugh's show for the first time. Man, that guy is fucking annoying... and extremely right-wing to the extent that it sickens me. Here in Canada, we have a government that is centre-right or moderate... and as a result, I wouldn't have minded seeing John McCain become the president of the United States. My friend Phil would probably know a lot more about Limbaugh than me. And, no matter what happens, I will continue to support the Conservative Party of Canada. In fact, I love them so much that I want you to help them win a majority government. And, also, I love their attack ads!
Friday, November 6, 2009 again began as a dismal day, as the number of pedestrians that came close to being hit at Bottomley Avenue and Circle Drive, was only six. Later that day, I decided to get a new wig... but then that stupid joint called Jewel's Hair Lair was busy... and I didn't feel like going anywhere after the end of the day. Eventually, I came home and slept, before going to work. Well, I did try to watch Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs. But, that was it for that day. At work, I had a performance review... and it turns out, I won a $25.00 American Express gift card, which could be used anywhere American Express is accepted (it was a matter of finding a place I actually liked). Now, although the idea of going to work... sucks, it was the last shift that ends at 1:00 AM, for everybody, as the workplace now closes at 12:30 AM due to low call volume between that time and 1:00 AM. Well, that concludes my Friday night. And yes, I have no life whatsoever. If you are still reading this, what the hell?!
Saturday (November 7) morning was pretty interesting. I stopped somewhere downtown for some "business." Then, I went to the evil Midtown Plaza to purchase the soundtrack for Michael Jackson's This Is It and used my American Express gift card at HMV. After that, I went to Starbucks Coffee, and saw that jerk Chelsea Breher with her friend from "back home," which is apparently Regina. Once I got my Iced Coffee with Milk, I left the joint and went to that SARCAN recycling depot joint on Broadway Avenue and got $21.65 for my filthy cans, bottles and juice containers. After that recycling joint adventure, I went to that KFC at Clarence Avenue South and Taylor Street to buy some of that boneless chicken they've been advertising. But by the time the day was over, it was time to go to work, half an hour earlier than I usually do. During the day though, I did pick up a BLOCKBUSTER Entertainment Pack, which actually sucks this year. I also went to the Dairy Queen on College Drive, as well as Future Shop and Shoppers Drug Mart at Preston Crossing. What was really surprising though, was the fact that the House of Representatives in the United States passed a healthcare reform bill. I also saw a gas station sign that said that gas prices were $9.999 at the new Shell gas station (currently under construction) at the corner of Broadway Avenue and 8th Street East. I did take a picture (even though I didn't take it until Wednesday). To see the picture, click here. And, that same day was the day I realized that the Real Canadian Superstore on Confederation Drive was being repainted. Too see a picture I took at that time (and others), click here.
Sunday (November 8) morning would be a little bit different, but still boring. On that day, I got myself a new wig. And, I remembered something my cousin Tho said to me the day before. When I told that little jerk to hurry up so that we could leave, he said "Wait... I want to look cool in public, unlike you!" He then followed that remark with one of his evil faces. But other than that, there was no new episode of The Simpsons on television. However, there was that dreaded Seth & Alex's Almost Live Comedy Show. There were actually two new episodes of Family Guy, as well as new episodes of The Cleveland Show and American Dad.
Last week, on Monday, I spent a good portion of time trying to access Hulu. Eventually, I succeeded, because Hotspot Shield (this website still works for most US-only websites) has stopped working for me. For more details, contact me. And later that day, the Reverend Nathan Dutnall told me to check out the following website: www.ghettobaskets.com. Well, that was it for that Monday. Well, I did enjoy the new episode of Two and a Half Men that night.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009 was an important day, as I took my 2001 Toyota Camry LE to the Ens Collision Centre (owned by Ens Lexus Toyota) for repair. What they gave me was a beautiful 2010 Toyota Camry LE, which I enjoyed driving very much. I eventually went home, before heading back to school on the bus, as I didn't like the idea of paying a whole lot of money for parking, or walking a long distance. To have an excuse to drive the new car around, I did a little shopping and eventually bought some groceries at the Real Canadian Superstore. There, I bought myself a stuffed (and boneless) turkey, as well as cranberry sauce. Eventually, I went home and did... nothing. Well... not exactly nothing. I now appear to be on speaking terms with Esther again. Now, as of recently, I started to miss Larry Chen... and his HD PVR. Actually, I think I miss that PVR more than him... but it was fun to live with that guy for a brief period of time. Eventually, I got tired and "hit the hay" (whatever the hell that means) early (at around 10:30 PM). Yeah... I am a total loser, apparently.
Remembrance Day is a day that we pay tribute to war veterans and to honour those who have fallen. However, that does bring the controversial topic of Canada's troops in Afghanistan to play, and I would like to discuss that topic. When it was announced that Canada's troops would pull out of the country in February of 2009, I was happy, as I didn't want to see any more of our troops die in combat. But, when the Conservative government decided that they would extend the mission in Afghanistan until February of 2011, I was a slightly upset, but I eventually thought it was justified. But, seeing soldiers die is not something that I am used to. Now, the Government of Canada has promised to bring all of the members of the military home to Canada, beginning in 2011. As happy as that makes me, I now have a mixed opinion on that deadline. There are times that I find myself wanting to bring our troops back home as soon as possible, but then there are certain times I'd like to see them continue the Afghan mission. But, with that aside, I woke up pretty early on that day. I woke up at about 6:50 AM. Eventually, I put the turkey in the oven, and took off for a little bit. I decided to make a stop at the Real Canadian Superstore located at 2901 8th Street East, but eventually headed to my uncle's house to pick up three annoying mutants: Ky, Tho and the evil one... Tony! Anyway, those three kids stunk up my house for an entire day... and later in the day, when Tony wanted to play some videogames on my Wii console, I essentially refused. He then said that he had five dollars at home and would give it to me if I allowed him to play some videogames. Feeling like a jerk, I eventually said, "Fine!" And no, I didn't take his five dollars. Eventually, it was time to drive the jerks home. Anyway, aside from Remembrance Day, it was also Phil's birthday, who turned 23. However, the most exciting part of the day was that I didn't have to go to school!
Thursday (November 12) was the day to go back to school. What was more important, however, was that it was payday. Yes, we all love payday, don't we?! But, what really surprised me was that I saw new fare-boxes on the bus. However, it was a stupid set-up. And according to a Saskatoon Transit operator, the new electronic fare-boxes will be not be used until February. However, the day started out a dismal one. The number of people that came close to being hit by a bus at College Drive and Bottomley Drive was three. Now, that brings me to the discussion of capital punishment for some reason. It's been on my mind for the last little while, and I thought about it. Coincidentally, I heard on television the same day that the Conservative government did survey a number of people and eventually found that less than one out of five people favour capital punishment. Now, during Canada's history, or as long as I've known what capital punishment was, I've changed my position on that numerous times. When I first learned about it, I was glad that Canada didn't have capital punishment. But as I got older, and more serious crimes were being committed, I was instantly opposed to not having one. Eventually, as more and more people started to commit serious crimes, I started to believe in capital punishment even more. But, all of that started to go down the tube, again, when Steven Truscott was acquitted of murder in 2007. Then, there are other cases, including David Milgaard. So, I don't know if I am in favour of capital punishment anymore. After that, I just started working on my history essay.
Friday was an interesting day, however. However, it did start as a dismal day, again. As for the number of pedestrians that came close to being hit at Bottomley Avenue and College Drive, it was one person. Eventually, I did nothing, and saw a local television reporter interview USSU President Warren Kirkland. After the interview, the reporter just stood there, and did nothing. To see a picture, click here. And yes, I do realize that it makes me a creep for taking pictures. Later that day, it would be dreadful night at work. And, in the end, it was one of the worst shifts I had ever had. Well, that concludes this previous Friday.
Saturday was pretty boring. I started the day off by heading over to my stupid cousins' house, after buying some A&W food for the non-appreciating jerks. After that, I took them on a little tour of Saskatoon, because I really enjoyed driving that 2010 Toyota Camry LE. Eventually, I went back to my house, with those jerks. By the time I arrived home, I had already consumed an entire President's Choice Upside Down Apple Cake, because that moron Ky was "full." Eventually, it was time for me to go to work. It was a good shift, somewhat, as I got some reading done. I continued reading a good portion of Stephen Harper and the Future of Canada. By 8:00 PM that night, I had read to the epilogue of that book. Eventually, I started reading the epilogue of that book, but I did not finish. Eventually, for "lunch," I went to Burger King. It was at work, though, that I started contemplating things I'd like to have. For instance, I'd love to have a phone that runs on the Google Android operating system (and it must be on a GSM network, as I am sick of the archaic CDMA network offered by SaskTel... and the whole upgraded network thing from TELUS isn't going to do it)! But, that also reminded me of how much I currently dread MY5 right now, as people call so much (you know who you are)! When I had somewhat of a social life a year ago, MY5 was a blessing, in disguise. Today, that is not the case. Anyway, after continuing to read that book that I was attempting to finish, the author talked about Belinda Stronach, and he sure made her sound like a bitch. Remember when she was dating Peter MacKay (the current Minister of Defence) before she crossed the floors to the Liberals and dumped him? Yeah, if you don't, that's what made her sound like a bitch. What I also learned was that Tony Clement (the current Minister of Industry) was also a leadership candidate for the new Conservative Party of Canada. But, I have a problem believing that, as I can't really imagine Tony Clement being our Prime Minister. Eventually, the shift ended, and I went home and read some more until 1:30 AM or so, before going to sleep.
This past Sunday, I spent a good portion of the day working on my history essay. Eventually, I finished it on Monday evening. Eventually, I gave up when there was still 517 words to type up before reaching the minimum of 2,500 words. After giving up, I started to watch television, as new episodes of my favourite FOX shows were on television. And, for the first time in many weeks, I finally got see a new episode of The Simpsons. Well, that concludes my weekend.
Monday was the start of a new week at school. I started the morning off by actually heading to the campus... but the maniac transit operator of route 70 (Silverspring) was replaced... by an old guy. Now, that old guy wasn't so bad, as he almost hit three people at Bottomley Avenue and College Drive. Now that's not bad for someone's first day. Not bad at all. However, I have not been able to catch the bus at all this weekend, as the bastard leaves one minute too early! Oh well. By 5:30 that evening, I was finished my history essay, and the process of proof-reading my essay was to begin. By 8:00 PM, I was finished the essay, and I submitted the essay to the University Writing Centre for help. After that, it was time to start writing my essay for my sociology class using my "sociological imagination." That was a little tougher, but I eventually finished the essay at some point on Tuesday morning. Anyway, after decided to take a break, I watched the new episode of Two and a Half Men, and I enjoyed it (even Jake's part because he kept his talking to a minimal). And by 11:30 that night, I 'hit the hay,' whatever the hell that means. That phrase was originally said to me by the Reverend Nathan Dutnall.
Tuesday was another interesting day. Well, not really, as I don't remember a whole lot from that day. Actually, I do, and it was pretty boring. And by the time I got home, I started reading the remainder of Stephen Harper and the Future of Canada. Now, speaking of that book, I read a part that was interesting, and would probably interest Jennifer Rospad, who did not vote Conservative in the last election because the Conservative Party of Canada wouldn't do anything about abortions. Well, William Johnson explained it. At the new party's convention in 2005, Johnson explained that:
Abortion was no doubt the most divisive issue for the convention. Despite a passionate plea by former MP Elsie Wayne, the convention voted 55 per cent against passing a law governing abortion. The relatively strong vote for the losing side at least maintained the party is the best choice for religious conservatives, for whom abortion is a cardinal issue of conscience.
And, for those of you who think that the current Government of Canada isn't really doing anything, Johnson explains, again: "But, as a bred in the bone conservative, he (Stephen Harper) also understands that change must be consensual, not radical and not shocking. Change must be prepared and be taken up by the citizens." Man, that book was amazing! Well, with the essays I needed to write completed, and with nothing to do, I finally got some sleep on Tuesday night. So, I "hit the hay," early! But on a brighter note (I guess), Cheech & Chong are coming to Saskatoon! However, I don't think I'll go see them.
Yesterday was a more interesting day, but also a long one. However, I was able to get one big thing off my shoulders: my history essay. And when I came home yesterday after three hours in my history class, after hours of school, I started typing up this blog update, until I felt tired, and eventually "hit the hay." Well, before going to sleep, I did download the beta version of Microsoft Office 2010. To get your beta copy, click here. On the way home yesterday, (I took my car to school), I made a stop at STAPLES Business Depot on Circle Drive. While I was there, I saw my new inkjet printer (HP DeskJet F4480) "on sale" for $99.92. Now, that is sad, considering that I bought the same printer at Future Shop for only $59.99.
As for today, my foreign friends, I was happy to learn that Andrew Pang's MacBook Pro was in for repairs, for the fourth time. Maybe he should just stick to Windows, like me. Speaking of laptops, I am considering purchasing one, again. But this time, I'd actually keep it. Now, it's just a matter of finding a good one for $500 or less (before taxes). That may be difficult to find, and as such, I will wait until Boxing Day, which I used to believe was a national day of fighting, thanks to my cousin James, who told me that when I was seven years old. After a day of school, I went home and took a nap, only to wake up, thanks to a phone call. Sadly, it was a call that I was dreading for about a week. It was a call from Ens Collision Centre, who called to tell me that the repairs to my 2001 Toyota Camry LE were complete. Man, I almost cried when I heard that, because I obviously really enjoyed driving that white 2010 Toyota Camry LE. It was fun to drive, and I loved that I could accelerate to 100 km/h in a matter of seconds with one light application to the accelerator. Oh well, it was a great nine days while it lasted. But, they did a pretty good job on my car, and the body of the car. A couple of years ago, I had a mishap with some touch-up paint on the car, and it ruined the trunk lid. As of today (or whenever it was repaired), those spots are gone, and my trunk lid actually looks good. Now, what I really loved was that the little round rusted spots on the roof of the car just above the windshield are gone! It appears that they have buffed the spots out and repainted that area too! It was a really good job, and I'm happy to have my car once again (even though I've been saying I really liked that 2010 Camry). However, when I came home and checked the fluid levels, I found that the engine oil was running low, as well as the power steering fluid and the antifreeze. Eventually, I said to myself, "Those bastards!" However, I remembered that they were not responsible for that, and that the accident caused the fluids to... drip. In my house, there is still some engine oil and antifreeze, but the power steering fluid will have to wait until tomorrow. I used up my remaining power steering fluid, but it is still below an acceptable level at this point. And after that, I've been spending the time to update this immaculately-coded blog.
Now, before I conclude my blog update, there are a few other things I'd like to complain about. This time, it's about that time former U.S. President George W. Bush came to Saskatoon. And no, I'm not complaining about him. I'm complaining about those retarded "protestors." First of all, it turns out that about 200 protestors marched down the streets and to a closed off section of Pacific Avenue between 22nd Street and 23rd Street. Now, first and foremost, the stupid thing about protesting is that it only takes one person to act like an idiot to make an entire group of 200 people or more look like idiots, thanks to the media. Secondly, don't these 200 people have better things to do, such as going to work, or school for that matter? Lastly, what the hell did they hope to achieve by protesting the presence a supposed "war criminal" that's not even in office anymore? Sure, you can protest his policies, but all of your protesting against his policies would be... stupid, as his policies will never come into effect again, as his term limit... has arrived. So, what was the pointless protest for?
Another thing that has pissed me off is Saskatchewan's two-part driver's licence. Saskatchewan is currently the only province in Canada to have such a retarded driver's licence. In order to have a valid driver's licence, you must have a photo ID card, as well as the paper version of your licence. Without the other, both pieces can be considered "void." Well, that has pissed me off for a number of years. When I was driving in Calgary last year and got pulled over for "speeding," I had to explain to the Calgary Police Service that the address was on the back. Also, when I went to a BLOCKBUSTER store in Calgary on two different occasions, I was asked for ID. The first time was at the store at Horizon Square, and I had to explain to the employee that the address was on the back. My second time was at the new store on Saddletowne Circle Northeast on the night of my cousin Jeannette and David's wedding. Again, I had to explain to the employee that the address was on the back, which eventually led to a nonsensical conversation about Saskatoon's crime rate.
The next thing I'd like to talk about, and not complain about, is the Conservative government's proposed bill to make life sentences real sentences, by multiplying the current parole-after-25-years deal by the number of people a murderer kills. So, if some crazy bastard killed 150 people and the new law was in effect, he would receive a life sentence and be eligible for parole after some crazy bastard killed 150 people and the new law was in effect, he would receive a life sentence and be eligible for parole after 3,750 years in prison. Now, if it were up to me, there would be no parole at all for murderers. But, the multiplication part is pretty funny.
In case you didn't know, the Internet recently turned 40 years ago. I actually still can't believe that. In the meantime, Canada finally received the Olympic flame not too long ago, and I can't wait for the torch to reach Saskatoon on January 11, 2010.
Now, Saskatoon recently lost its title of "murder capital of Canada" to Abbotsford, British Columbia. It's kind of a shame, but also good. However, for some sick-and-twisted people, that is bad. As for me though, I used to include that fact as a selling point for people to move to Saskatoon. What? It worked on Daniel Couchman and Larry Chen!
The last thing I'd like to talk about is that $200 million hotel/condo development that was supposed to be constructed at River Landing in downtown Saskatoon. The project was called River Landing Village. However, the deal died when the company failed to make a payment of $4.5 million to purchase land owned by the City of Saskatoon in order to develop the land. With three extensions, the company still failed to make the full payment. So far, they have paid $700,000 in interest, and Lake Placid CEO Michael Lobsinger says that he has spent $7 million on the land so far. Lobsinger claims that he will have the money to commit to the project, "soon," as he is getting money from an international source. When Lobsinger asked for an extension on the payment deadline back in August, the City of Saskatoon stated that he had to pay the interest, or the deal would be dead. Sadly, he didn't make the payment before his new deadline, which was October 30, 2009. As much as I'd like to believe Lobsinger now, after months and months of delays, I have a hard time seeing him as credible at this time. Although I am growing sceptical of the man now, I feel that it is hard to ignore a man that was willing to invest $200 million in Saskatoon. And, although a part of me feels that the City of Saskatoon should move on and find a new developer for the land, it is still hard to ignore a man that was willing to invest $200 million in Saskatoon. And as for those who say that Lobsinger is a "scam artist," I did agree with you at one point. However, the man does have other projects that have either been constructed or are currently under construction.
Well, that's all of my complaining for now. Anyway, the next couple of weeks will allow me to relax, to a certain extent. All of my major assignments and projects are now finished, and the only things I have to worry about now are final exams, which will occur next month. As for the remainder of November, not a whole lot is planned. In December, however, I will only be working a combined total of twelve hours. Why? Well, I asked for the first two weekends off, which will allow me to focus on studying for final exams. After that, I will be working on the 19th of December for a six-hour shift. I originally requested the 19th of December off and was initially approved, but accidentally cancelled the request, and thus, screwing myself over in the process. I placed another request, but that request was denied. At this point, however, it is still a possibility and has not yet been ruled out. As for December 18, 2009, that day was also requested, even though it is after finals. The next shift would be Friday, December 25, 2009 for six hours. I am getting December 26, 2009 off because the centre is closed on that day. So, had I not screwed up my schedule earlier, I would have only worked for a total of six hours in December. But, because of my own error, I now must work twelve hours in total for December, for the time being. Oh well, it's only two nights.
Well, that's all for now! Good night, and don't get ripped by the riptide! And in case you didn't know, that phrase is stolen from Martin Sargent, who used to host Unscrewed with Martin Sargent on TechTV, and later G4techTV, until those bastards cancelled his show. He later moved on and created his own podcast: Infected by Martin Sargent. A few years ago, Sargent mentioned my name and this blog on the show and stated that I would forget about him once I got into the girls and the cars. Well, he's wrong! I still remember him today and it's a shame that Revision3 cancelled his podcast, and the one that replaced Infected by Martin Sargent, known as Internet Superstar. Man, what the hell was Jim Louderback smoking when he made those decisions?! Therefore, Jim Louderback fails at life.
