January 1971

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Congratulate yourself today

Another year you’ve lived to see

On which to build anew the hopes

That shape your human destiny.

Your grief and failure leave behind

Strive harder to achieve success

Plot out the course that you expect

Will bring you greatest happiness.

Think positive and bright and gay

Keep resolutions down to few

To make and break them is the choice

That no one else dictates but you.

The Christmas spirit of good will

Should be extended through the year

If but a portion lingers on

You’ll spread a little extra cheer.

Whate’er your gender, size or age

We offer you this little toast

Good health, peace, happiness, the works

May you get what you wish for most.

Daily News Headline: Volunteers struggle to dig graves for miners 

Some folks think Council has some gall

To get rid of the City Hall

The old one down on Duckworth Street, that is

Like buying a new set of clothes

With haste the old ones they dispose

And doing this on them just does not fizz.

We must accept the seasoned fact

That those who wish it kept intact

Have quite a genuine interest it is true

Building, galleries, churches all

Historic memories recall

But for tourists just one City Hall will do.

Old buildings can be quite a pain

And rather costly to maintain

This one does not stand out in any way

The old Post Office could have stayed

As a showplace in tourist trade

But that was quite a structure in its day.

Old City Hall is set to go

From parking meters there’ll be dough

When that one goes the block will smaller be

Then one by one will buildings go

The process may be rather slow

But there’ll be more facelifting, wait and see.

Daily News Headline: (“like a battlefield ... a massacre” say officials) 66 dead in Glasgow stadium collapse

Those blank spots when you felt no pain

The late nights that imposed a strain

By now of course are on the wain

It’s back to business once again.

For resolutions that you made

You may deserve an accolade

But even now you see them fade

If you will call a spade a spade.

Some kids resolved to give up school

They’d rather all day long play pool

But real deep down they’re no one’s fool

They won’t miscue or blow their cool.

And you’re a lucky one if you

Have steady work to go back to

Just think there’s really quite a few

Who long to get a job to do.

That long face you should try to hide

This year take everything in stride

In what you do adopt new pride

You’ll feel much better that you tried. 

Daily News Headline: (“Vive le Quebecois” shout defendants) Trio charged with death of Laporte

In Newfoundland we are ahead

By half an hour we lead the way

Our time zone gives us the nod

To First Baby on New Year’s Day.

Four minutes old was ‘71

Maternity was in a whirl

At St. Clare’s Hospital St. John’s

For there arrived a baby girl.

To Mrs. Williams of the Goulds

And husband Richard she was born

The First Baby in Canada

Delivered there on New Year’s morn.

A person born upon that day

Should be blessed with good memory

And in the horoscope it adds

Will be one of authority.

Congratulations to the folks

Of all the New Year babies born

To check their future by the stars

They’re listed under Capricorn.

Daily News Headline: (11 others charged as accessories) Four plead not guilty at arraignment 

Through recent years we’ve had of course

Commissions of all sorts

The latest one reporting in

Concerned our major sports

The men and ladies in the group

Quite ample time did take

Compiling all their data

Took them four years plus to make.

The finished article appears

As well thought out, constructive

The Meeker‑headed body proved

It was indeed productive

On many backgrounds did they call

For their source information

The better to put substance into

Each recommendation.

Phys Ed proposed for all the schools

A tight administration

Youth agencies, facilities,

Training and recreation

Advisory Council gets the nod

The amateurs supported

Now that it lies with Government

Let’s hope it won’t be thwarted.

Daily News Headline: (Threat of terrorism still exists police maintain) Quebec retains powers

The queue keeps on building it seems

As prospective home owners with dreams

Get their place in line

Which is all very fine

But it seems to involve many schemes.

Many relatives help in this case

If you leave, one of them takes your place

But if you stand alone

Through no fault of your own

And must leave, then you’re out of the race.

Some with money to spare it suits fine

They pay someone to take place in line

When the time comes to buy

They just breeze right on by

That number three spot there is mine.

Low priced lots are as rare as hen’s teeth

Which explains why so many compete

There is so much demand

For so-called low price land

That to get a lot seems quite a treat.

So a yoo-hoo to you in a cue

Even though something seems quite askew

Build the dream house you planned

On that rare piece of land

Let’s hope it’s all worth it for you.

Daily News Headline: (Seditious conspiracy charges laid against eight others) Rose remanded for trial, shouts terrorist slogans

Another slash at Water Street

As Ayres prepares to close its doors

Diminishing the downtown trade

Which started with the Royal Stores.

Leaving ‘Variety’ untouched

Is just an easing of the blow

And now the speculation starts

What firm will be the next to go.

The profit margins were quite high

When older firms got captive trade

But spending dollars now are spread

There’s not quite so much to be made.

If old established firms like this

Can’t hold their own, then we must ask

What hope is there for smaller shops?

How can they keep up to the task?

Someone once said on Water Street

Some day they would see growing grass

With moves like this the question is

Just how soon will it come to pass?

Daily News Headline: Ice-fight averts Arena tragedy

On Labrador’s Hamilton River there flows

A huge Falls, and by three names it’s known

First Grand Falls, then Brinco called it Hamilton

Now as Churchill Falls it stands alone.

A symbol of majesty, greatness and power

A wonder of nature it stands

This hydro-electric source in Labrador

Churchill Falls would attention commands.

It was August 13, year eighteen ninety one

Two men from Bowdoin College we note

Arrived at Grand Falls, their names Cary and Cole

On a plain piece of paper they wrote.

Their names they recorded, a comment they made

In a bottle they stashed it away

They asked those who found it their own names to add

To record those who travelled that way.

The tradition was kept and the names grew and grew

In ‘60 the last entry made

June 11 in fact was the bottle removed

Where for sixty nine years it had stayed.

The bottle is now with the Premier of course

Brinco people felt there it should be

With the names, dates and comments of visitors all

It’s a bottle of real history.

Daily News Headline: (Congress seeks 90 day suspension of constitution) Uruguay to suspend rights

“Me son I don’t know what’s goin’ on” the fisherman exclaimed,

“You knows for years that no one gived a hoot

Now Joe is shoutin’ all the things he’s goin’ to do for us

When years ago he gived us all the boot.”

“Lard Reevin, buddy, well I knows, it’s not the same at all

We left our ‘omes, our ‘arbours and our flakes

We can’t fish from the places that they poked us into, Garge,

I tinks meself dere makin’ some mistakes.”

“You’re right, me son, now we signed up with that young priest McGrath,

And young Rick Cashin - he was Joe’s man once

An I believes the way dey talks, I tinks dey are sincere

When dey talks about lingliners, skiffs and punts.”

“You know dey are but Joe once said two jobs for every man.”

“Yes, but Pat Antle had a crack at that

And you knows what’s behind what Mr. Joey’s sayin’ now

If you don’t I’ll have to say you’re like the bat.”

“Yes, b’y I sees it all to plain we’re in the New Year now

Elections comin’ up this year for sure

But this year we should fool ‘em give Frank Moores bunch all the votes

We lost so much b’y, we can’t lose much more.”

Daily News Headline: (Is DREE financing Joe’s “master plan”?) DREE negotiating long-term agreement

St. John’s Junior Chamber of Commerce

A group of young men on the ball

Have set aside this as Jaycee Week

It is so proclaimed by City Hall.

It’s not an exclusive hob-nob club

Where Junior Executives roost

But a place for young men who are anxious

To give themselves that little boost.

The outside age limit is forty

Community spirit is stressed

Involved in self-betterment projects

Each gives what he can of his best.

There’s evident leadership training

Programs to effectively speak

Junior High competitions are sponsored

Last night’s speak-off highlights this week.

Later on there will be school debating

For Newfoundland and Labrador

To Ontario finalists travel

This latest is one project more.

Communities keep on improving

With organizations like these

This week we encourage the efforts

Of all those effective Jaycees.

Daily News Headline: Plan to overthrow Quebec revealed

What’s new with you

Have you the flu?

If not let’s hope you miss it

If out of luck

With it you’re stuck

So pay your Doc a visit

Communities

Have absentees

In schools and business places

The flu bug’s here

This time of year

All ages it embraces.

More people flock

To see their Doc

M.C.P. numbers stating

They snort and wheeze

And cough and sneeze

While each his turn is waiting.

It’s not all bad.

The Doctor’s glad

His pocket book is swelling

Of course the flu

Helps Druggists too

Prescriptions they are selling.

Daily News Headline: (Reports indicate...) Unemployment rate to hit new peak

Strutting this way and that he made one vicious crow

The cackling died down, it was time for the show

Subdued clucking was heard as the one they adored

Mr. Rooster, spoke out on the Marketing Board.

“My chicks, let me tell ya I’m proud of your layin’

For I know very well that on some it’s a strain

Our efforts mean that mainland eggs sale is poor

So I’m proud of you all, Brother Dick will add more.”

“Well, I’m independent,” said Cock‑of‑the‑Walk

“I don’t like what I see so I’m making a squawk

It’s no yoke what the Government and the Co‑ops

Are doin’ to our owner in hope that he flops.

Now you know eggsactly what started the fuss

The subsidized owners were jealous of us

You’re right up to scratch and your grading is grand

And our co‑op hens promised to give us a hand.”

They had sent Mother Hen. In her very best cackle

She said: “There is only one way we can tackle

This set‑up that smells like bad eggs, so I’ll tell

What we’ll do is lay twice as much eggs, but no shell.

“As your laying gets better then ours will get worse

They’ll think we’re afflicted with some kind of curse

You see feathered friends what’s being done is deplored

We’ll shell out when they scuttle the Marketing Board.”

Daily News Headline: 538,000 jobless: Gov’t lashed (Newfoundland leads DBS ratings...)

Such bitter frost, the night air uninviting

In central heated homes they can’t decide

To watch TV, play games or take it easy

Immune are they to what it’s like outside.

Space heater homes are just a little different

The main draft broken at the entrance door

If there’s a grate that helps to make it cozy

You can’t go ‘round with bare feet on the floor.

In other homes the hot spot is the kitchen

The only stove to heat the house all through

At bedtimes gather extra quilts and blankets

The more there are less chance of turning blue.

Worse still in old uninsulated houses

The whistling wind unmercifully blows

The kitchen heat can’t cope with drafts all over

Throughout the night perhaps the water froze.

The frost is relative to place of dwelling

It can be mild, discomforting, severe

Whatever category you fit into

There’s no mistake a real cold spurt is here.

Daily News Headline: (Unemployment situation) More fuel heaped on burning issue

The older folks today must be elated

At last some special thoughts have come their way

This balloon of hope should never be deflated

For such good news some pray most every day.

Quite a credible advisory committee

Through much research confirmed the growing need

To have such homes in Gander and the City

Of St. John’s, but Corner Brook is in the lead.

Already they advised of plans in making

For senior citizens they show much thought

We’re glad the bug to help the aged is taking

A chance to show them the respect we ought.

To reach and share with dignity life’s twilight

With partners or with friends who think as they

Makes Manors like the Golden Age a highlight

It really keeps their hopes up, old folks say.

Daily News Headline: Battered by snow storm, Newfoundland digs out

At last another good old-fashioned winter

With high winds drifting snow in piles so high

The streets and highways closed to normal traffic

Exciting to the young, the old just sigh.

Church, school and many social cancellations

Found most secure at home content to look

While those whose jobs require they be on duty

Wrote another service chapter in their book.

The Janeway needed four-wheel-drive assistance

To help the stranded staff get to and fro

Response received was aptly termed terrific

As other volunteers braved wind and snow.

The radios kept everybody posted

Alerting all to hazards of the snow

Passing messages along, storm information

Just keeping those confined well in the know.

Winter rages as it hits mid-season

Confirming early forecasts of Jack Dodd

A chance to help each other storms provide us

Perhaps that’s why it’s called an Act of God.

Daily News Headline: East braces for 2nd onslaught

Kids somersault when doing indoor swimming,

But have you seen them do it in the snow,

From dizzy heights it’s the new winter pastime,

Before each jump they shout ‘look out below’.

And weren’t the city streets a transformation,

Skidoos and snowmobiles the travel mode,

While plows cleared streets as well as did snowblowers,

And fleets of trucks removed snow by the load.

How different too the attitudes of people,

The friendly greeting as you chance to meet,

A strange but welcome sight is people walking,

Where bumper-nudging cars should line the streets.

The pace is changed of course, a kindred spirit,

Reveals itself when there is time to spare,

Declared emergency brought stringent measures,

And through it all there was that yearn to share.

A shovelled path, a drive to work, a message,

Response to all appeals was done with cheer,

The Christmas spirit stayed a little longer,

And saw us well into the brand new year. 

Daily News Headline: (Gov’t survives non-confidence vote 108-89) Economy recovering says Benson

The streets are very narrow now

Because of snow piled by the plow

The traffic moves along somehow

                              Take care.

All the corners now are blind

As you approach them you will find

You must keep all the kids in mind

                              Take care.

Not many sidewalk cleared as yet

Don’t drive as if you’re in a jet

It could be costly to forget

                              Take care.

With thousands walking back to school

And kids so prone to play the fool

Defensive driving is the rule

                              Take care.

We must all now cooperate

These circumstances tolerate

Things will improve but while we wait

                              Take care. 

Daily  News Headline: (JRS stranded on TCH: freed by Highways Dept.) Area  reels under second onslaught (All vehicles banned from streets)

We had to take a second look

When scribe Ed Swain from Corner Brook

In rhyming verse from folks out West

To East Coast bodies wished the best.

We do of course reciprocate

And as the stormy winds abate

Admit our winters have been mild

And possibly we were being spoiled.

This year the winter spread its hand

All over dear old Newfoundland

From Labrador to Burin’s toe

We’ve had our share of wind and snow.

When Nature chooses to revolt

It’s worse than any untamed colt

The winter sees its meanest streaks

Dispensing what it stored for weeks.

It seems to us, in wind and snow

Nature lets its frustrations go

Let’s hope that now we’re off the hook

And cheers to all in Corner Brook. 

Daily  News Headline: (Goose Bay may be reactivated for Canadian Forces says  MacDonald) Govt. considering incentives for Happy Valley

The anxious moments of the storm‑filled hours

Brought many to their knees in humble prayer

The loved ones of a traveller late arriving

With faith could turn to someone who would care.

Some recall the catechism definition

Prayer an elevation of the soul to God

It is in fact a form of conversation

Where apparent one way talking seems not odd.

The joint Church emphasis on people praying

Alerts us all to this our special need

To talk to God gives one sense of elation

Regardless of a person’s professed creed.

The form of prayer most used is called petition

When chips are down, in times of strain or stress

Or if they’ve f ailed to live the role expected

In solitude do humble souls confess.

Prayers of adoration, hymns, a service

Acknowledge an all‑knowing God of love

With gratitude some whisper special prayers

Of thanks, for many blessings from above.

Ecumenical prayer service on the weekend

Significantly serves to symbolize

That love and peace is ours for the asking

This Christian concept prayer ratifies.

Daily News Headline: Talks begin for Goose extension

For the kids it’s a back to school day

More vacation? Oh man there’s no way!

The days off were fun

For each daughter and son

But for mothers it wasn’t that way.

In and out with their shovels they went

In the snow drifts they made quite a dent

Clearing up all the drifts

Took them two or three shifts

Till dry clothes and mom’ patience were spent.

For school days missed, somehow they’ll pay

In the spring extra hours they may stay

Of course they’ll be thrilled

Absent days could be filled

By some classes the odd Saturday.

Daily  News Headline: (“Malicious insinuations, biased judgements and  erroneous deductions”) Mass media report blasted by La Presse

It’s toboggan time, kids of all ages

Enjoy every minute they ride

Down the slopes of the parks and the hillside

They tumble and playfully slide.

It’s a whirl-a-round real tumble-over

A fun loving game in the snow

The happy red rosy-cheeked faces

With signs of delight are aglow.

In centre St. John’s many kiddies

Are having the usual ball

In the wide open space off New Gower Street

Across from the new City Hall.

But still there are some who are clueless

In many spots all over town

They slide over banks and down driveways

And scarcely escape being knocked down.

Excitement we know is the reason

For kiddies it’s really a treat

With high snow banks cars cannot see them

Warn them not to slide into the street.

Daily News Headline: (“I think they’re all guilty” shouts cult leader) Manson convicted of murder

It’s minor hockey week that means

There will be many pleasant scenes

Of jostling youngsters, hockey sticks and scraps

Of course they need us to support

This very active, healthy sport

It’s fun as well to see the little chaps.

Putting that elusive puck

Into the net is not just luck

It takes coordination, planning, skill

So teamwork is the secret here

As well as spectators’ cheer

This latter is a role we all can fill.

We should back up the kids this way

By dropping in to see them play

Encouraging their efforts to no end

Their organizers too will feel

Their efforts do have some appeal

If we too have a little time to spend.

Daily News Headline: (“Where can I go ... where people have not read those articles?”) Rose chooses to act as own counsel

The winter storms their problems pose

Of snowfree sidewalks we’re devoid

But quickly they would all be cleared

Had we but used the unemployed.

Young men and old in proper shape

Could clear the access to the schools

But so complacent are we now

To do so they would feel like fools.

The welfare status now enjoyed

Robs many men, their pride is gone

Content are they to watch the mail

Instead of tryin’ to be hired on.

A man can take with dignity

A cheque earned from a sweating brow

Even to shovel sidewalk snow

Which can’t be managed by the plow.

Clearing sidewalks of the snow

The laborers could work for pay

Too late for that, too logical

They live the lazy social way.

Daily News Headline: Joe won’t budge in salary dispute

John Lundrigan, M.P. (P.C.)

Outlines with stark reality

That D.B.S. and U.I.C.

On their statistics disagree.

At federal level he’s annoyed

That somehow there appears a void

In figures on the unemployed

About which he’s not overjoyed.

He thinks that manpower does portray

The number out of work today

But B.F. Brennan yesterday

Had something different to say.

Unregistered are some he knows

Though unemployed, they simply chose

To stay away (their right I s’pose)

Again the unemployed list grows.

This makes the thing a bigger mess

On Government he’ll lay the stress

The true statistics to confess

About our labour force excess.

A brand new “cover up” is here

But this one gives no cause for cheer

Instead there’s a statistic smear

Which John L. hopes will disappear.

Daily News Headline: (City to make pitch for 1977 Summer Games) Mayor seeks overhaul of bus system

There’ll be Canadian Indians quite embarrassed by Miss Horn

Who radically hits the scene and brags of her unborn

The image she presents would make the reddest Indian blush

This pseudo‑educated gal should get a real bum’s rush.

Hold on! I bear no prejudice toward her or her race

In fact their culture I respect, I know some face to face

A very close friend works with them, Champs, B.C. the scene

But when they look for human rights, this isn’t what they mean.

Hypocrisy is evident when we hear Miss Horn say

The women of her culture should in reservations stay

Her opportunities were good she’s educated well

Her woman folk she won’t uplift, and we can go to hell.

While talking in MUN’s Theatre she was put in her place

A lady ex‑Toronto reservation, of her race

Hoped she was not accepted as a spokesman for their cult

This lady living here for years was a concerned adult.

Miss ‘blow her own’ Horn will get help to start her six child plan

But who will she depend upon to raise her little clan

Her many‑fathered offspring when maturing just may say

“What’s with the reservation bit, we’re leaving Mom, you stay”.

Daily News Headline: All normal as blastoff nears

 It takes a lot of dash and verve

As well as a good share of nerve

To sell a lot of people what you dream

But Joey seems to think he can

And labels it his Master Plan

Essentially it’s an election scheme.

The Conference that starts today

Will demonstrate how Joe can sway

One asset is his personal appeal

To coin a phrase, he’ll talk them blind

And so bemuddle them in mind

His audience ill think it’s quite a deal.

This may be so and hopefully

With relatives like Uncle DREE

We’ll all light cigarettes with dollar notes

But fairy tales are for the young

It will take quite a golden tongue

To trade a fantasy for thoughtful votes. 

Daily News Headline: (Astronauts correct docking problems that threatened to abort mission)  “Super job Stu” : “Thank you” 

The successful Sunday launching of the Kitty Hawk and crew

Was precisely undertaken and without too much ado

This flight of rare adventure moonward bound seems like a dream

Yet we now just take for granted what was once the wildest scheme.

It’s a symbol of our era, all around us changes come

So many are accepted and we disagree with some

The pace is ever-growing with new challenges ahead

No time for retrogression, we just move right on instead.

The outer space achievements open yet another door

Through ages man discovered gifts that Nature has in store

They’ve been refined, improved on and perfected every way

Each challenge was a step toward Apollo of today.

Daily News Headline: (Master plan revealed as “development of everything”) The sky is the limit, decrees JRS

The rate of accidents throughout the winter

Is escalating every single day

So many never change their driving habits

And breeze along like any summer day.

You’d like to clobber idiots who pass you

While you stop for a school bus up ahead

You can’t tell if you’re cursing on the nitwit

Or praying that some kid won’t wind up dead.

On narrow streets some pass, though it be drifting

Or sweep around the corners without care

Invariably they cause many hardships

As damaged cars are costly to repair.

The scalding thing about all those collisions

It almost seems as if there is a plot

Those causing accidents have no insurance

And the victim is the one who pays the shot.

The traffic volume warrants more enforcement

If no insurance; licenses suspend

The victim has to pay a higher premium

It’s gone too far, time now for it to end.

Daily News Headline: (Laird refuses to reply in sharp exchange with reporters) Invasion of Laos proceeds under news blackout

Although it snowed two weeks ago

One need not to be too clever

To note that this week really is

The biggest snow job ever.

The flakes in forms of notices

And ads and invitations

Soon blanketed the other news

With heaps of expectations.

When Monday morning came the storm

With heavy winds from Joey

Each Minister then hoped in turn

We’d get his drift, though snowy.

The press, TV and radio

Completely were snowed under

That other news reached them at all

Is still a nine day wonder.

The blinding million dollar drifts

Electrifying speeches

Could well match “As the stomach turns”

It gives some folks the reaches.

But snow will melt, drifts disappear

Election clouds replace it

When that precipitation falls

We’ll be prepared to face it.

Daily News Headline: Saigon says “invasion” merely campaign to clean out Communist border sanctuaries

One traffic law could be enforced

Each day around the city

Not only may it save a life

But sweeten up the kitty.

At dusk or night time many cars

Have park lights only showing

Some drive without their headlights on

It’s hard to tell they’re going.

When you see this you may step on

Your dimmer switch and flick it

But those potential killers need

Reminding with a ticket.

Unless headlights are used at dusk

Much trouble we’re inviting

Policemen could some heartbreak save

By doing ticket writing.

Daily News Headline: 20,000 Vietnamese poised for thrust into Laos

In a quite recent Government venture

The planners were subject to censure

But God Bless the Bayman

Who whispered an “Amen”

I’m certainly glad that I went sure”.

“You can see that Joe’s playin’ the game son

He’ll lead us to fortune and fame son

Who else could command

Visits from Jean Marchand

And that big man of transport, “Don Jamieson”.

“They might call our Joey a schemer

Or some of them say he’s a dreamer

I don’t mind that trash

Because Joe got the cash

My son he’s just like a Redeemer”.

Daily News Headline: (Oil prices must be met by Feb. 22) West on brink of oil embargo

It’s a busy time of year for everybody

There are meetings, seminars and panel shows

Discussion groups, committees, study classes

For those involved that’s how the story goes

When meetings overlap it’s sometimes awkward

Busy people get the nod most everywhere

‘We know you keep a very busy schedule

But if possible at all we’ll see you there’

Service clubs, fraternities, and church groups

Unions, sportsmen, PTAs are some

Who must set up committees and have meetings

Their success depends on who decides to come

Be one of them. Help one group of your choosing

Or more, if time to spare, the need is great

The same old faithful need more people like you

If you can help them, don’t procrastinate.

Daily News Headline: (No U.S. ground troops involved) Vietnamese push 10 miles into Laos

We chatted, through the slots he pushed the needle

And with precision sewed another broom

A little nervous yet, the needle pricked him

He cursed but sympathy had left the room

For he was blind.

As a morning chore I’d get the working ledger

The boss would say while buffing his glass eye

“You should be at your work not reading papers

I heard the rustle as I passed you by”

And he was blind.

In the workshop corner someone played piano

For a while just practice - the chromatic scale

A semi classic phrase, and then another

Till the pianist had learned the piece from braille

For she was blind.

These thoughts and many more the memory conjures

As we find ourselves half way through White Cane Week

Having worked among the sightless, known them closely

With authority I know whereof I speak

About the blind.

They know their handicap and meet the challenge

For them no sympathy, there’s just no way

Through education most are self-sufficient

Preventing blindness, they help us today

And they are blind.

Daily News Headline: “We’re all fine in here”

Pressure politics were peered at by a panel

Note the name of the newsmaker of the night

Cashin’s comments caught the crest of the reporting

Richard’s rushed replies and ramblings rated right.

Recall when Richard rated right with Joey

Promoted as potential Premier then

Now Nolan gets the nod as no one ever

Joe is jubilant and jumps with joy again.

The Liberal Leader likes to lead the limelight

But Cashin can’t concede and on his own

Quite pointedly parades politically

Attracting some attention all alone.

Rowe, Roberts, Callahan and Rowe are ripe now

For the Premier’s post as pointed out by Joe

But Cashin carries on in competition

So shaping up should be a real good show

Daily News Headline: (Evidence of “overkill” promises continued reductions) Davis unveils reduced seal quotas

LOST: By many a Newfoundland native

Wearing beanie or salt-pepper cap

Respect for the Government Leader

There’s a real credibility gap.

We know of the unfinished painting

An unfinished symphony too

But we have what we call un-beginning

Things JR promise never come true.

The hockey stick bubble has bursted

An on-again off-again deal

And the whooping big conference come-on

Was but a political spiel.

For Joe, it was opposite thinking.

FOUND: A very rich Uncle called DREE

Who knows we’re neglected and needful

And senses that we’re up a tree.

I’ll nail him, says Joe (sotto voce)

He won’t know what hit him at all

Roads, schools, educations, resources

With his money we could have a ball.

Nephew Joseph thinks I’m worth a fortune

said Uncle DREE thinking of cost

I can’t shake him loose since he FOUND me

Let his voters tell him that he LOST.

Daily News Headline: (Lundrigan charges manipulation of jobless rate) Is govt. baking

statistics?

She had to work on Saturday, the evening shift her lot

Then like a flash it hit her, heavens she almost forgot

“Can I get off for church sir, it’s a duty I can’t shirk”

“Are you Seventh Day Adventist.” “No sir.” “Then get back to work.”

Her boss somewhat perplexed just shook his head in disbelief

I’m sure she’s an R.C., perhaps she’s turned over a leaf

I’d better ask her in, perhaps too hasty have I been

“Now Miss I am not prying, tell me now just what you mean.

“Why would you ask on Saturday to get this one hour leave?

Unless you misinformed me, you’re an R.C. I believe.”

“That’s right sir but the latest change that filters down our way

The Sunday Mass can now be celebrated Saturday.

“The same thing happens too sir when a holyday occurs

One can go the day itself or on the eve if one prefers

The obligation is fulfilled if you choose either day

A second chance we all get now, it’s better too that way.”

“Well I am a little Irish and was green when I was born

But I’ll leave it up to you to go to church tomorrow morn

I thank you for the news that now two Sabbaths you enjoy

But you must get back to work now while you’re still in my employ.”

“I thank you sir” she answered, “and I’m glad the news I gave

Although my great grandmother might turn over in her grave

But I can see the wisdom in the chances now we get

And with some more concessions I’ll see you in our church yet.”

Daily News Headline: Mass walk-out expected (Gov’t offer still stands)

There’s a great list of names

For the famed Winter Games

From all parts of dear old Newfoundland

And Dee Murphy will soon

Report from Saskatoon

That the Newfies are prepared to take their stand.

Glad to see it’s a fact

They’re provincially backed

Equipment and training costs they pay

And the Federal white knight

Chooses to underwrite

Those Canadian youths at winter play.

Our cheers now do fly

To our youth who will try

To let them all know just where we stand

Whether they lose or win

We’re just glad that they’re in

All a credit will be to Newfoundland.

Daily News Headline: (NGEA lends moral support to NTA) Teachers out “indefinitely”

The teachers’ withdrawal of service

Did not come from out of the blue,

They’ve gone through a long drawn out process

With everything going askew,

What happened to our sense of values?

Far too chicken-livered are we,

We should make some noise and support them

Instead we just show apathy,

Parents should be quite indignant

Get all MHAs on the ball

Write them and show you’re disgusted

That this ever happened at all,

When your kids leave the house early morning

In the car, bus, or some other way,

Has it dawned on you yet that the teachers

Are with your child most of the day,

They teach them in various subjects

Supervise lunch and recess

Line up concerts, debates, special contests

To help them advance with success,

As they promote class competition

Develop the talents they find

Their aim is to help all our children

Increase both in stature and mind,

Teachers give homework then check it

There are registers too to be kept

Also extra curricular sessions

At administering they’re adept,

As counsellors often they function

For PTAs they must prepare

Class excursions they often arrange for

Because for our children they care,

Preparing exams takes some effort

For all of these things they make time

And now that they ask for an increase

One would think it was almost a crime,

What a sickening display of indifference

That brings them to these troubled days

And then there are clots who just blunder

“Well they get two months holidays,”

Some have marking board duties in summer

Special courses some take to improve

Some earn University money

To earn other degrees their next move,

There are staff meetings, seminars, studies

Activities all through the year

Dedicated and busy are teachers

Blessed with patience, and very sincere,

reluctantly this stand was taken

The teachers know well what’s involved

Let’s get positive Government action

The sooner the better resolved.

Daily News Headline: Seven more schools hit by teacher walk-outs (No attempt made by either side to resume talks)

I received a hot letter this morning

A scorcher some people would say

It read On Her Majesty’s Service

And was opened without much delay.

Inside a white business enclosure

Showing evidence it had been burned

And then I saw Mr. Clarke’s letter

The reason for this then I learned.

It seems that a letter box patron

Had dropped in a butt or a match

It now is being investigated

In hope that the culprit they’ll catch

Regrets from the District Director

Were offered in manner sincere

In advising the cause of the damage

He hoped it had not been severe.

This circular letter enlightens

The customer does mean a lot

No need to have him burned up also

Enough that the letter was hot.

Daily News Headline: (Lundrigan charges Trudeau used “four letter obscenity”) What did you say Mr. P.M.?

A year ago today we made our debut

In varied styles of verse we’ve written such

That you may get new slants on timely topics

We’re grateful that with you we are in touch.

Encouraged by family was a starter

Being read on “Open Line” helped quite a deal

“Through the Kitchen Door” gave us a mention

For her our taxi poem had appeal.

To “Me and Ned” our thanks for column reference

Mary Lou and Peter Palmer dropped a note

Appreciation too to Mr. Neary

He acknowledged the adoption poems we wrote.

My rhymes on Burgeo Blooper drew rebuttal

Thanks to Harold Lake for taking of his time

To defend the actions of his brother Spencer

We’re flattered his reply was made in rhyme.

To Noel Vinicombe, a thank you, for the gamble

To John Clarke and many who phone us at home

We gratefully acknowledge all your comments

Billy Bowe on Valentine wrote me a poem.

St. Bon’s Newsletter hailed our Grade 8 visit

With pupils we exchanged poetic views

In Port aux Basques a tabloid called ‘The Echo.’

Our poem on “Patrick Morris” chose to use.

The challenge of each day will still continue

We’re glad that at this stage for us you look

For those who have already posed the question

Quite soon we hope to publish our first book.

Daily News Headline: (Student group seeks meeting with JRS) Gov’t inflexibility rapped by NTA

“Lard jumpin’ liftin’ dyin’ roarin’ reevin’”

Said Jim to buddy Sam when news came out

“As ventriloquist Pierre would be a failure

You see the blinkin’ way he moves his mout’.”

“At least a Newfoundlander shares the headlines

Not good ones, mind you, not with all that fuss

What an honour to stand in the House of Commons

And see the P.M. shout a noiseless cuss.”

“I like your nerve you rotten lily-livered

Knee-knocked tantalizing flipping runt

Troudeau disgraced the honour of his mantle

I wouldn’t say it offshore in a punt.”

“I know b’y it’s the same with all us fellers

We knows the right and wrong and where we stand

Whoever thought one with ‘is education

Would let ‘is use of words get out of hand.”

Daily News Headline: (Four more schools abandoned) Teacher walk-out enters second week

One can tell that time is flyin’

Watch each new election sign

Each Revising Justice now is named in print

Stalling words by Mr. Rowe

Until return of Premier Joe

Is another way of picking up the hint.

Flying visits all around

Fairy stories that confound

Are the themes that tell the time is getting ripe

Though the Conference fell flat

Joe will never stop at that

And will find a way to ease the teachers’ gripe.

To prorogue the current House

Keeps the game of cat and mouse

Going at full speed and shortly to be seen

In their most flambuoyant try

Will the Liberals do or die

For election now they’re greasing the machine.

Just to a little more

The N.D.P.’s are at the door

For leadership five come here to compete

Not much yet from P.C. boys

They’re just ready at the poise.

To put up a lively battle for each seat.

Daily News Headline: ‘Public opinion won’t change’ : MUN prof. (Cull should resign says Hattenhauer)

Kiwanians give us a musical treat

In having so many young artists compete

With bursaries, scholarships, many awards

Arts and Culture this week echoes myriad chords

Nine thousand participants, quite a roll call

In making up schedules, the order was tall

Solos, duets, trios, sextets and more

Make all efforts worth it as talents outpour

Undoubtedly standards increase by the year

Superb are some entries and all are sincere

Intensely excited through daytime and night

Children contribute with special delight

Flighty or nervous, or itching to go

Each one’s extra effort adds much to the show

Special too are the adults who choose to enrol

Their coveted prize - the distinctive Rose Bowl

Involved behind scenes are a host of great souls

Very proud to help others reach musical goals

Adjudicators will be kept on the hop

Lots of luck all contestants and reach for the top.

Daily News Headline: (Trial adjourned, Rose still absent) Lortie refuses to testify

Eat your heart out parents, you deserve it

You’re shocked that teachers would be out so long

But had you acted in your children’s interests

Today you’d sing a very different song.

We’ve heard both points of view, some is distorted

But what do parents do, sit on the fence.

If you want the best of standards for your children

Then say so, come to their teachers’ defence.

The Government is you, it’s us - the people

Make appointments, send in telegrams today

Let PTAs make joint presentations

Press for mediation - it’s the only way.

The high school students proved you’ll get a hearing

They conducted themselves well, and were sincere

Put politics aside, and check your values

On you depends how soon the end is near.

Now the Government is sending to each household

The wage scale data - it’s their latest plot

But think about it, this is costing money

Your money too, why not get off the pot.

Daily News Headline: (225 teachers walk out in Labrador) Govt. offer final says JRS

With Valentine’s day over

St. Patrick’s is coming next

And Easter right behind it

I am now somewhat perplexed.

To find throughout the city

Christmas decorations yet

Trees standing on verandas

And outdoor lights by the set.

A Santa Claus you’ll witness

If on McDonald Drive

A last ditch stand to keep the

Christmas spirit still alive.

Of course we expect businesses

To be right on the ball

But just look overhead today

When walking through the Mall.

In flower pots there suspended

Are arrangements Christmas style

The season’s over and is meant

To last but for a while.

Daily News Headline: Rumors fly as dispute drags on

On Saturday morning

Too crazy for words

A little thing happened

That’s just for the birds.

At LeMarchant and Bennett

With traffic light red

Two strollers crossed over

Each nodding the head.

In straight line they went

Then our signal said go

We waited some seconds

They travelled so slow.

Two pigeons were they

No intentions to fly

They could have been hurt

So we let them pass by.

Those crosswalk users

Were not that absurd

What a lesson in safety

To get from a bird.

Daily  News Headline: (Foreign draggers operating within 2 miles of shore)  “We’re loadin’ up our 303’s ... there’ll be murder out there”

What have they done to us students?

The teachers walked out of our school

They claim their position is valid

And some are just working by rule.

What have they done to us students?

The Government of Newfoundland

Mediation with them is taboo-like

This thinking we can’t understand.

What have they done to us students?

Those parents who just sit and wait

While we are caught in the middle

They sheepishly procrastinate.

All of them let us down badly

If sensitive we would feel hurt

Our concern is for our education

We have certain rights to assert.

Are they waiting for us to take action?

Should we show them how to behave?

We call for a settlement promptly

The whole situation is grave.

Daily News Headline: Draggers ordered 12 mi. off coast

Nature is rough in a biting sleet storm

yet in her compensatory way gentle,

as she leaves her beauty mark on

the countryside.

The small birches submissively toe-touching

under the evergrowing weight of each

layer of ice,

assumed arch-like positions as they succumbed

to the onslaught,

and now sparkle resplendently under a winter sun.

The fantasy-like groupings present a still life

of nature ballet,

Young growth showing the grace of its lines.

In contrast evergreens even taller seem.

The glittered windward side gives them

a shimmering new green-gray dimension,

like a well-groomed haircut greying at the

temples touched up with a brylcream shine.

The silver-thaw sheen of the hillside glistens

here and there in the brilliant sunshine,

backgrounded by the dazzling white of an

untarnished snow,

and in the distance the arrestingly,

panoramic view of the all white mountains

kissing the horizon reminds us that

nature’s beauty is limitless.

Daily News Headline: Soldier burned to death as Irish unrest continues

This time of year everyone wrestles

And all get pinned right to the floor

The Government wins all the tussles

Its weapon - the famous T-4.

Each tries his darnedest to beat it

But there’s no escape from the hex

We’re reaching the stage where deductions

Are bigger than most take-home cheques.

Income tax time is upon us

It means some conniving by some

For quite often the yearly outgo

Is much more than the yearly income.

Daily News Headline: Washington bomb blast liked to protest of Laos invasion

February slipped out o’er the weekend

Being careful the door not to slam

Unnoticed March stepped o’er the threshold

In tradition “came in like a lamb”.

Winter’s about to be wrapped up

Seventeen days left to go

Keep boots, caps and parkas quite handy

It may want to get rid of some snow

From the 21st Spring is the label

In name only often we find

Our Springs are just tardy by nature

No surprises if this year it’s behind.

This two-season month has surprises

It never gives in when it’s dyin’

When the entrance it makes is a mild one

Be prepared, it “goes out like a lion”.

Daily News Headline: (Teachers to vote on NTA executive recommendation) Withdrawal of services may end today

The cross is red on a white background

The world well knows what it stands for

In practice it carries the message

It’s respected in ravaging war.

To the wounded and dying it’s comfort

Hope stirs in the breast at its sight

In perils of drought, fire or flooding

It’s there whether daytime or night.

A magnanimous organization

A symbol of all that is good

Universal it’s love and peace message

In all tongues music-like understood.

Blood service, emergency functions

Life saving, whatever the chore

It serves every race, creed and color

The pompish, the average, the poor.

Volunteers help with the service

There are costs though, and all very real

For campaign time each year March is chosen

For the worldwide and worthy appeal.

Daily News Headline: “Choke, choke” chant demonstrators (11 arrested as Trudeau addresses Liberal dinner)

Your church and community need you

So many things to be resolved

Though willing to help you may wonder

In what way can I get involved?

The answer of course is yours solely

The initiative you must provide

One never knows what their potential

Until they have honestly tried.

If your club or church groups hold discussions

Attend and be active, be heard

Your thoughts should be aired, so express them

Some solutions may lie in your word.

If community help you can offer

Many agencies need helpful souls

Red Cross, Contact, others, need workers

To help achieve some of their goals.

Don’t be shy, you have so much to offer

You can’t leave it to her or to him

Get involved, use your talents for others

Jump right in, then you must sink or swim.

Daily News Headline: Would you believe MRS. Trudeau?

Author of the fuddle duddle,

Went into a cuddle huddle,

Why the spread of years

Is anybody’s guess

In the North Vancouver air

He latched onto Miss Sinclair

And he really put one over on the press.

No one really knows as yet

What got into Dear Old Pet,

The bachelor image now goes down the drain,

As a husband he’ll appear

People now will watch Pierre

And a new charisma he must build again.

Calendars not marked before

Will have circles round March 4,

And the gossipers their field days will enjoy

Soon will speculation start

Bless our Dear Pet’s little heart

Will they have a little girl or baby boy?

Daily News Headline: Ottawa warned ... fishermen may have to take up arms

Remember Lent! It used to be a time

When kids would give up candies, movies too

The adults quit their smoking and their drinking

Attending church was then the thing to do.

For some it meant no dancing, things were quiet

Social life was very much toned down

Retreats and missions filled the many churches

A lull was evident in every town.

Paddy’s Day of course meant celebrations

A break from all restrictions, fasts and such

So folks made up for all they missed before that

And consequently ate and drank too much.

Then next day all reverted to pre-Patrick

Self denial being the penance we’d impose

This would climax with the Holy Week devotions

And rejoicing Easter Sunday, when Christ rose.

Today the picture’s just a little different

Some rules relaxed, formalities are gone

Lent isn’t just for sombre faced appearance

People are themselves and carry on.

Yet, there is something genuine about them

The hypocrites are few and far between

More honest and sincere today’s churchgoers

It’s always worthwhile when you make the scene.

Daily News Headline: (Visit to seals ends in mid-winter bath) Seal hunt protesters dunked

Education week was prefaced by a crisis

As educators wound up in a bind,

Their claims by Government had been rejected,

Though they hoped a quick solution they could find.

Ironic in this week for education

Is the situation that has been exposed,

On principle the teachers made decisions,

It seems others, if not all schools, will be closed.

Education though is everybody’s business

A lot of say this but let it slide,

Let the Government and teachers work out this one

We’ll simply do the ostrich bit and hide.

Whatever views are ours this week so special

It is the week to rally and be heard,

The Government should prove to all our children

That education is a worthwhile word.

Those with education should show how to use it

TV debates might prove a useful tool,

For Education Week the project this year,

Should be to get all children back in school.

Daily News Headline: (Rose disagrees for “political reasons”) Laporte “executed” says statement

A young Newfoundlander who sails

Was leaning one day o’er the rails,

Someone called “Ship ahoy

What d’ya say Newfie boy,

Can you sell me some old herring scales?”

“Crackin’ up,” thought the boy but said “yes”

“But I am curious sir I’ll confess,

You say 10 cents a pound

But what use can be found

For those scales, of all things, what a mess.”

“Hey Harry,” he calls to his mate,

“Do you think this yank’s callin’ it straight,

He says women will wear

Herring scales we have here

Before they go out on a date.

Said the yank, now enjoying the fun,

There must first be some processing done.

Herring scales form a base,

For what goes on their face

We make up ‘make-up’, pardon the pun.

Daily News Headline: (South coast from Cape Ray to Lapoile out of bounds) Entire west coast off limits

This tenth Jaycee award took a different twist

A husband and wife team have headed the list

A Mr. And Mrs. for efforts sincere

Share the honour of being Citizen of the year.

To cerebral palsy their energies went

With children who have it much time they have spent

Helping parents and children alike they resolved

With hand and heart they would get fully involved.

Bill and Gertrude Crosbie enriched many lives

They’ve shown how effective are husbands and wives

Inspired many parents by starting a school

For handicapped children “look up” is their rule.

So cheers to you both, it’s the first time a team

Has won the award, so proceed with full steam

To spread your influence in seventy one,

And on being selected a grateful “well done”.

Daily News Headline: (Discussed “social, cultural and political events of October”) Rose denies making police statement

Facetious perhaps but effective

Most surely devoid of invective

Dr. Quinlan did speak

Tuesday night of this week

On the subject of being protective.

Mr. Nolan in street car days tried

With some medals to pay for a ride

This miraculous feat

Helped the boys on the street

They helped him with a prayer on the side.

So suggesting a Department

Of Miraculous Medals (it’s Lent)

Dr. Quinlan in jest

His opinions expressed

And with laughter the Hotel was rent.

He examined without hesitation

Today’s Government’s rare situation

Then in novel description

Announced his prescription

Which warrants a special ovation.

Daily News Headline: (“Reason to doubt” fishermen’s report says Davis) Surveillance reveals no violations

Well it’s settled a la Manolesco

Joey Smallwood has twelve years to go

Bill Adams two more years of glory

Then he’ll have much less ‘to’ and more ‘fro’.

John Crosbie’s political future

Through stars take a different light

His chances here quickly diminish

In Commerce he’ll shine ever bright.

Of Ank or Frank Moores we heard nothing

Perhaps they had field work to do

While Joe hogged the line in the station

They may have been chatting with you.

I saw Manolesco in person

King looking, perceptive and all

And though he talked serious business

My ESP said he’s having a ball.

Daily News Headline: (Jury deliberation adjourned) Admits to kidnapping ‘I’m proud of it’: Rose

“Woof, woof, hey come over I want you”

And the shaggy young halfbreed complied

“Didya hear that the Council is hairy

The whole works are after our hide.”

Said Shaggie: “I’m always being hounded

‘paws off’ I bark back when they chase

It’s not our fault we roam for a livin’

In fact I find it a disgrace.”

“Pardon me, but I heard,” said the Collie

On the hydrant her trademark she left

“In my breed many found homes of kindness

I’m ignored, just neglected, bereft.”

“I am too” and Mutt joined in the session

“I'm maggotty, need a good bath.”

“Woof, woof,” they all chorused mock fashion

“There's nothing much surer than that.”

“But he’s right” barked the unlicensed shepherd

“Our owners don’t care where we roam

It’s all right to be free as a human

But I’d much rather have a nice home.”

“City Hall can shout all that they want to

We canines are finding it tough

We’ll insist that we all get our license

Let’s rehearse now, Bow Wow Ruff Ruff Ruff.”

Daily News Headline: Rose sentenced to life (Quebec to make amends)

Well now isn’t it nice

Joe has gone to the ice

To chat with the man on the pans,

Can you picture the scene

Comes the flying machine

And then slipping around shaking hands.

He’ll say “How are things? good?

Watch it there goes a hood,”

And the sealer will tend to his job,

So that cameras will show

Our concerned Premier Joe

Being one of the men, not a snob.

Movin’ round he will chat

With the men in the fat

Battle wind, snow and ice through the day,

On the “Crosbie” at night

He’ll regale with delight,

And “I slept with the sealers” he’ll say.

Being out to the front

Sizing up the seal hunt

J.R. may be asked what was revealed,

Well no doubt he made notes

But about getting votes

He may only say “my lips are sealed.”

Daily News Headline: (Pakistan leader to visit East) Khan seeks to avert civil war

March seventeen, remember that

We used to honor poor old Pat,

The patron saint of Ireland, bless his heart

His birth gives rise to many tales

Was it England, Scotland, Wales?

It’s not important where he got his start.

The Irish claim him, that’s enough

For over there he proved his stuff,

Converting all in sight and sound of voice

He had charisma in his day,

And even charmed the snakes away,

No wonder to this day they still rejoice.

On Monday past, the local date,

The Irish chose to celebrate

The customary visits then were made

They wet the shamrock and the green,

Two days before March seventeen,

Much fun had they as Irish music played.

To Irishmen in Newfoundland

“Top o’ the mornin’ here’s me hand

If you remember Patrick on this day

Those who already had a spree

We join with you belatedly

‘Cause Paddy’s Day comes twice a year this way.”

Daily News Headline: (Occupied Arab land policy ratified) Meir wins bargaining support

Looking healthy and dapper, exceedingly chick

On Monday night past we observed Charlie Quick,

The handshake was firm, there was comment for all,

Perceptive, alert, he was right on the ball.

When speaking of Methodists Guard Brigade team

In his eyes one detected a nostalgic gleam,

Soccer then was the game, the year 1906,

Just one of the years that in memory sticks.

From starting time all through the night people came

Acknowledging greetings he knew most by name,

For Charlie is Quick, to his name lives up well,

And his age you’d know not unless he chose to tell.

But he did and the Guards an occasion did make

A rectangular white, trimmed with blue, birthday cake,

“Happy Birthday, Uncle Charlie”, it read

With a plaque of icing “84th” at the head.

The speakers were many and praise to the Lord

John Nolan and Ank Murphy spoke in accord,

There were telegrams too from some folks on the go,

A surprise one was read from the P.M. - Trudeau.

Happy Birthday again Uncle Charlie to you

Whose history with Guards dates to 1902,

Well groomed and chipper your age you belie,

God Bless you, all sportsmen feel you’re quite a guy.

Daily News Headline: (Landing Zone Brown doomed say pilots) “They’re hitting it around the clock”

For motorists who just pass through

A nightmare is in store, sir

The visitor gets more confused

As he tries to explore, sir.

With one-way streets in Corner Brook

You suffer a delusion

Ed Swain describes it aptly as

An organized confusion

By Millbrook when the light is green

A mixed up sign reads: “Enter

Intersection only when

Exit clear” - what’s meant here?

Where Main meets West there’s ‘No left turn’

Yet just two bus lengths further

You must turn left for T.C.H.

Just check and both signs are there.

“Dead ends”, “one ways” and other signs

Need updates and revision

Potential accidents arise

With every split decision.

Daily News Headline: Canada’s jobless climb to 675,000

“Bonjour Monsieur. Quelle heure est-il?”

“You Frenchmen want to make a deal?

There is a rumour in the air

You’re hoping to sell St. Pierre”.

“It’s how you say - zee little lark

Vee find ourselves quite in zee dark

Dere must be someone playing pranks

Besides, it cost too many francs”.

“Somehow we thought you were opposed

To 12-mile limit being imposed

But not a rumble did we hear

From Miquelon or St. Pierre”.

“Well frankly we call spade a spade

And must protect our tourist trade

Like politicians we’ll play dumb

Wat we lose we’ll make up in rum”.

“The fishermen, vell they make some

Real dollars when the tourists come

Sell? No indeed! Who told you so?

We didn’t even tell Trudeau”.

Daily News Headline: Gov’t to consider Brinco bid

“Summation” in my court is wrong

Said the Chief Justice coming on strong

He objected that Pike

Spoke American-like

And could not condone these terms Furlong.

The Chief Justice implied without doubt

That American jargon is out

A below the belt strike

To aggressive Alf Pike

The young lawyer who likes a good bout.

Lawyer Pike to contain himself tried

With “address to the jury” complied

Adding this to the facts

Gave him cause to relax

In his favour did jury decide.

Daily News Headline: Political crisis grips Ulster (More violence feared as PM quits)

The House will hear heckling and heavy harangue

This session will sizzle with slander and slang

Wells will wistfully watch as the wrangling goes on

Generally glad from the grind to be gone.

Joey will jabber and jostle and joke

With PCs he’ll parry quite prone to provoke

Collisions with Crosbie will colorful be

Sessions this Spring will be something to see.

The overtime option PCs will oppose

Practical problems this plan will propose

With ponderous papers to probe and perceive

We wonder what wily web Joey will weave.

The sealfishery stunt superficial appeared

As a vote-getting gamble one guessed it was geared

However the House highlights heightened will be

And election excitement will evident be.

Daily News Headline: House opens amid tight security (Reports of arrests  unfounded)

Life has many moments of humour

The things people do, write or say

Sometimes it is worth taking notice

Of things seen and heard every day

A CN bus driver announces

“The next stop is Holiday Hinns”

And he’ll tell when you reach “Gander Hairport”

The local vernacular wins.

“For all you late drivers” a sign reads

It’s “Cold sand and coffee”, no less

The Holiday sliced off the sandwich

And cold coffee?? picture the mess.

A store still handpainting its windows

On George Street today can be found

Spelling is not the main feature

Like “Chicken BRESTS” so much a pound.

On a Woolco sign next to a checkout

“RECIEPT” is mispelled one can see

The cashier says: “Yes sir, I told them

But no one will listen to me”.

Daily News Headline: (“We’re in for a blowup” says Levesque) Quebec secession could rend nation

The Bay Roberts case we have not heard from yet,

With the passing of time we are prone to forget,

The House now in session the limelight will take,

But the matter of principle still is at stake.

When the Howley report passed its findings along,

The uproar of public opinion was strong,

To pacify people the Premier agreed,

That a one man commission was all he would need.

And of course Mayor Adams with quite a slow start,

Did the hearings conduct and his findings impart,

But that’s where it dies as we all felt it would,

The old cover up story, it’s not for our good.

Commissions are costly but somehow they prove,

For political purposes they’re the right move,

Let the people speak out is the primary aim,

Then forget it, no doubt, that’s the name of the game.

Daily News Headline: Laotian drive ends as base pounded

He lit up his pipe as he said to his spouse

“Turn on the T.V. and we’ll look at the House”

“Look George” she replied, as she put down the clamps

“Go to work for a change, ‘cause you need some more stamps”.

“Now Sarah you knows I don’t fight much with you

But holdin’ me tongue now is something to do

Himself on T.V. is a wonderful sight

It breaks up me day and it brightens me night”.

“A man’s world for sure” was her snappy reply

“I’m worked to the bone, and you don’t even try

There’s no ‘Peyton Place’, ‘Dr. Casey’ is gone

And ‘Another World’ too, I just can’t carry on”.

“You poor wimmen” he mocked, “All that old soapbox junk”.

“Don’t ‘poor wimmen’ me, if you had any spunk

You’d get off your behind and get working again

Unemployment stamps! Yuck! It’s the ruin of men”.

“Well I spose we’ll ask Joey to see it your way

Let’s see - he’ll give Ank all of St. Patrick’s Day

And John R. is not bad, all his pictures are nice

His turn comes when the “Crosbie” goes out to the ice”.

“Oh you’re mockin’ me now, but we women have rights

We could play Bingo daytime instead of the nights

Now it’s me or T.V.”, and she started to bawl

“Just like Joe says himself, all or nothing at all”.

Daily News Headline: $100 million sought in interim financing (No details presented on projected spending)

A new image on us is about to be thrust,

For a number of people it will be a must,

The latest creation - a Joe Smallwood bust.

This paperweight replica that you can own,

Is made from a mixture of plaster and stone,

Should be a good seller since Joe is well known.

The J.R. supporters will rush right away,

To pick up a bust to put out on display,

And boatloads no doubt will be sold in the bay.

The non-Smallwoodites may quite simply decide,

A copy to get as they swallow their pride,

Then proceed to the basement the likeness to hide

In their privacy then they could play a new game,

At the bust they could shout an unprintable name

And relieve their frustrations without any shame.

Composition is such that it won’t turn to rust

This year of elections finds many nonplussed,

The decision? Joe Smallwood in person, or bust.

Daily News Headline: Brakes fail, runaway truck kills two

From the Ocean of Storms to St. John’s, Newfoundland

There’s an actual sample of moon rock on hand,

Amazing indeed is this lunar display

Scientifically surely we’ve come a long way.

Yet despite all the proof of our rapid advance

The moon still ranks high as the theme of romance,

As we view it from here it has quite an appeal

Yet we know that man walked on its surface for real.

The moon rock itself isn’t much to behold

No sparkle of diamond, no glisten of gold,

But the film and the pictures the story conveys

And school groups were visiting all through the day.

Detailed information describes the moon’s birth

Related quite closely to our planet – earth,

Intriguing the thought, though the moon is up there

We can truthfully say there is part of it here.

Daily News Headline: (Rahman arrested, 7000 killed) East Pakistan resistance collapses

 The cue is big outside the door,

You join it and there is one more,

Though clear the day quite cool the breeze,

A lady covers up her knees.

You chat about the current news

On licensing exchange your views,

You hope that somehow there’s a move.

The license system to improve.

When there is room you get the nod

At least you get inside, thank God,

You read the signs where each one waits,

Cue up again for ‘license plates.’

Inside a while it comes to you,

It’s useless being in the cue,

They call a number shout a name,

It’s Bingo-like, a numbers game.

The employee out by the door,

His numbers gone went in for more,

When he returns you ask “one please?”

Line up again, this time at ease.

You pass in papers, keep your dough,

You’re told the Cashier lets you know,

No licence plate? You shake your head,

A sticker this year in its stead.

Daily News Headline: Closure to cut off supply debate

It’s a fact and not a rumor,

If you have a sense of humor,

You’re not welcome in the gallery of the House,

For if pleasant is your nature

Just forget the legislature,

A spectator must be quiet as a mouse.

Now we do support decorum

That we need in any forum,

But we all admit at times the talk is dry,

So to add a new dimension

Someone jokes to break the tension

Which builds up in Bills like Interim Supply.

Now a spectating factor

You must be a darned good actor,

To hear a witty word and not respond,

So you sit with face of poker

And forget you heard the joker

Or your belly laugh and you must both abscond.

Though the antics may amuse you

The restrictions will confuse you,

In the chamber they may laugh and roar and shout,

But spectators are subdued like

Lest their laughs be misconstrued like

Or the Premier could tell you to get out.

Daily News Headline: House votes 22-8 to invoke closure

The teachers are on strike again

Joe Smallwood has resigned,

Rick Cashin is Premier-elect,

Don Jamieson has declined.

Frank Moores just bought CJON

Trudeau and wife are here

Ron Pumphrey’s beard is just a fake,

We’re getting cheaper beer.

The Bullet’s coming back again,

Bill Adams cut his hair,

There’s no fog on the southwest coast

We’ve just bought St. Pierre,

There’s no snow left in Corner Brook,

Newfoundland dogs don’t drool,

And don’t believe a word I said,

IT'S ONLY April Fool.

Daily News Headline: Union calls nation-wide rail strike (CN, CP to suspend rail operations)

The Interim Supply Bill had under-exposure

Because of the Government’s making a closure

Opposition had limited time for debating

Much less to do any real investigating.

They let it be known they had no thoughts of quitting

And all came prepared for a day and night sitting

But Joseph took over and gave his position

He’s push the Bill through despite all opposition.

Just a matter of time from the notice of motion

And all his supporters displayed their devotion

Invoking the closure was precedent setting

On results of a long hassle Joe wasn’t betting.

To determined opposers the Premier seemed chicken

This could be an omen to herald a lickin’

The worthy opponents know smoke suggests fire

This session will surely make Joey perspire.

Daily News Headline: (Freed pending court martial review) Nixon orders release of Calley

We watch stars in the sky,

As we stroll you and I,

And our portable keep us in tune,

With the holding of hands,

Each of us understands,

That this moment will pass all too soon.

In our whispers of love,

Under bright moon above,

We find peace and contentment and joy,

Like a story oft told,

See our love life unfold,

As a happy young girl, happy boy.

With our dreams we are filled,

With each other so thrilled,

Let this moment be just for us two,

This short sequence in time,

Should be just yours and mine,

May our fondest hopes always come true.

Daily News Headline: Strike prospects grim

It’s strange that there’s such little fuss

From patrons of the City bus,

For changes soon to come to pass

The green light goes to Satinskas,

This native of the U.S.A.

Comes here and promptly get his way,

Some buses too far gone to fix

He makes demands for twenty six,

The larger ones nigh five years old

He’ll keep and update - Council’s told,

The smaller types will have to go

For all those hills they’re far too slow,

The routes again will see some change

But isn’t it a little strange,

That people whom it will affect

Are seldom heard when they object,

So now new buses are in store

A stranger comes upon our shore,

He states his case without a flinch

And now his job will be a cinch,

Most anyone, with buses new

This job quite capably could do,

But no, we had to go the bit

And let an import manage it,

So here we were with buses old

And going further in the hole,

A staff change made, an added treat

Let’s give the buy a newer fleet,

It’s not the man, don’t get uptight

Quite probably he’ll do all right,

It seems he passed the green grass test

The farthest pasture looks the best.

Daily News Headline: Rail talks continue as noon deadline nears

There’s just no control of the movies

It seems they can charge what they like

At last comes a show non-restricted

And the price takes a sudden big hike.

The matinee price escalated

And on weekends didn’t apply

The evening rate’s tagged on at daytime

And no one will dare to ask why.

“Love Story” is tender and moving

But not a spectacular show

No big casts or elaborate settings

Yet you have to pay more if you go.

It’s an extra half buck for each person

To see an award winning show

But when tripe is the fare at the movies

Do the prices go down - indeed no.

It’s just one more case of being ‘taken’

Pay through the nose all the way

So why is the afternoon session

An evening price, not matinee

Daily News Headline: West enginemen unhappy; may rebel (East rail service returns to normal)

Isn’t it ironic that the Speaker of the House

Is having trouble getting there on time

He can’t be very popular, else timid as a mouse

It seems his colleagues simply walked on by him.

It must be quite a problem when you have to hitch a ride

And this is where the irony comes in

The Premier’s flights are costly with his close ones at his side

And Clarke can’t get a bus fare - what a sin.

Now the Honourable Speaker whose position ranks him high

Should remember there are taxis on the go

A phone call would have done it, have a taxi on standby

The dispatcher sets it up by radio.

Long-winded explanations simply tend to complicate

What he meant to say is anybody’s guess

Our time zone is bad enough but Mr. Clarke can’t wait

To call time as he sees it - what a mess.

To an Opposition speaker he could check his watch and say

“Your time is up, the deadline you have met”

But if loquacious Joseph asked how goes the time of day

“Well by my watch you have a half hour yet.”

Daily News Headline: “We ... smelled the stench of death” after fighting & executions in Chittagong Pakistan

Despite the month of school free days

The Easter holidays are here

Each kid gives a resounding cheer

They’ll make up time in other ways.

Some schools have learned to compensate

With concerts cancelled for each grade

This sacrifice had to be made

The main concern to educate.

The kids are glad to get a break

They know how much they have to do

Refreshed, their studies they’ll renew

The last term seriously take.

While off you’ll see some go on hike

So motorists, be more alert

Vacation time let none be hurt

Take special care for those on bike

Daily News Headline: Gas, fuel oil prices hiked

It’s snowing as I write this line
Though all the week was very fine
The sunshine gave us all a lift
While shopping for an Easter gift.

To dress for Easter is a treat
And all the latest fashions meet
Inspired by this and bright sunshine
The ladies this week did their buyin’

On fine days, people on the street
Somehow are friendlier to meet
In lighter clothes they feel more free
And all appear to happy be.

The ladies catch a roving eye
As daintily they rush on by
They’ll wear the new duds if they can
Their hopes lie in the weatherman.
Daily News Headline: Newfoundland fishermen may not get bargaining rights this year

It’s a picket line time

And the strikers have ‘struck’

They are claiming some rights

Which some managers duck.

Bricklayers and Masons

Hope further to meet

But to the moment

There’s nothing ‘concrete’.

In the grocery feud

They’re avoiding mayhem

But resent someone having

‘Dominion’ over them.

Each St. Lawrence woman

Supported her man

The strike will be settled

They knew that ‘Alcan’.

All these work stoppages

People really dislike.

But they must go to ‘bat’

For themselves, so they ‘strike’.

Daily News Headline: Gov’t troops wipe out ‘infiltrators’ (Fresh pledge of Russian support given to Pakistan

Everything comes to a person who waits

For Rossie it meant a trip down to the States

He received honors in Louisiana

Which rates Mr. Barbour a real top banana.

He’s a Senator now, honorary the post

And New Orleans people dig him as the most

For they, in addition, have opened their door

Of the keys to the city they gave him one more.

Mr. Barbour of course of this honor will rave

And he’s quite justified, since it was a close shave

His hopes of such titles at home are quite dim

This oil-drilling promo was passed on to him.

Backbencher or not it’s a sign of our day

To be recognized one somehow must go away

Canadian talent a lot better rates

When exposed to the market in United States.

Daily News Headline: India warned - Stay out of Pakistan

Pedestrians and motorists don’t see eye to eye

If out on a crosswalk the motorists whiz by

Yet driving a car you see people jay walk

Or step from a sidewalk and fumble and balk.

At the moment it looks like a cat and dog game

But each one has rights to which he can make claim

Crosswalks and street lines repainting will get

But a few weeks from now, it’s not warm enough yet.

However much more education we need

Both walkers and drivers should traffic laws heed

Each Spring at least one week should be set apart

To warn and advise us to take it to heart.

Pedestrians and motorists will both know their place

Jaywalkers the options of fines have to face

Motorists already are hooked for each flaw

Let pedestrians too see both sides of the law.

Daily News Headline: McCurdy quits: Is ‘liability’ to NTA

Come all you folk song lovers, those who like dancing too

Sit back and let the boys and girls play, sing, or dance for you

Tonight at Arts and Culture, folks, a show for you is planned

It does a special credit to our native Newfoundland

The St. John’s Folk Arts Council feels it will have much appeal

“Two hundred fifty did compete this week” said Paul O’Neill

The instrumentalists were scarce, and one thing that strikes home

Just one played the accordian, none played spoons, saw or comb.

The singers have three choices here but all must understand

At least one of the two folk songs must be from Newfoundland

The dancers do the polkas, lancers, step with lively feet

And ethnic groups and soloists seem happy to compete

From 12 to 20 years they come quite varied in their size

To try for certain trophies or to win a special prize

But most of all to share the songs and dances, while they last

And help promote a feeling for our culture of the past.

Tonight’s performances show what encouragement can do

The program, 20 acts in all, will be a thrill for you

The Folk Arts Council worked real hard on this third festival

And seeing youth enjoy themselves, you’ll like the best of all.

Daily News Headline: Gilbert Pike takes over leadership of NTA

Dorothy Wyatt has done it again

Quite capably matching her talents with men

She doggedly set out a study to do

And with an objective report has come through

She doesn’t just drop it and say here it is

She discusses it freely and feels it’s her biz

To support what she’s written, proposals define

The dog menace clearly she’d laid on the line.

She’s not anti-dog and say pets have a place

But the number of roaming dogs is a disgrace

A frightening figure dogs cost us each year

Presumably more of them will disappear.

This canine control is no doubt overdue

And should soon be enforced thanks to Dot W.

This lady in council has setter sights high

Whatever the challenge, doggoned but she’ll try.

Daily News Headline: Troops move into Kingston prison (Rioting prisoners still hold six hostages)

Rowe, Rowe Rowe your boat

Time to slip away

Credible, credible you are not

So say the N.T.A.

Rowe, Rowe Rowe resign

Take them by surprise

A teacher once it’s plain to see

By pupils in your eyes.

Rowe, Rowe think some more

Don’t say you forgot

Verily, verily teachers are

A dedicated lot.

Rowe, Rowe Rowe your boat

Let them know you tried

For come the next election

You’ll be swept out with the tide.

Rowe, Rowe Rowe your boat

Down life’s ebbing stream

Justice comes to those who wait

Life is but a dream.

Daily News Headline: It’s still tense in Kingston

The Gander - St. John’s competition

For air traffic’s topmost position

Is still in the slings

But this battle of wings

Is bound to get more recognition.

What might have been cat calls and slander

If talks were allowed to meander

Was quashed from the start

Joey took Collins’ part

Telling Harold he’d look after Gander.

Now Gander it seems is a weakness

And Joe knew ‘The Gander’ in bleakness

He’s awfully glad

It was his launching pad

This he says with all possible meekness.

From the launching pad - Confederation

Made all of us part of the nation

Thus Collins and he

Have achieved harmony

And he plays down the whole situation.

Daily News Headline: Rebellion ends: hostages released

“Now Arthur, what happened?”, a Premier Joe quote

A significant one that is worthy of note

It seems that Bill Marshall has called someone’s bluff

With a new can of worms he is making things rough.

The ‘64 purchase of land from Tom Kenny

In two years for Lundrigan’s earned quite a penny

The place is St. John’s, the site Holiday Inn

This kind of probe gets under Government skin.

In profit it meant o’er 300 percent

Which indicates how public money is spent

Any project of course that is government backed

The vultures it always is bound to attract.

Caught at this time in an awkward position

That great pacifier - a one man Commission

Is pulled from the closets for moral support

By October next we should have his report.

Daily News Headline: (22,000 households) New city weekly offers total community newspaper service

Pretty stars from many heavens

From this island - Joanne Evans

Our Miss Teenage Newfoundland

Earns from all of us a hand.

Since she so loves modern dance

We are glad she had a chance

To so perform and as we see

She did it well while on T.V.

Her tendency to captivate

Placed her within the final eight

So wisely sponsored by J.C.

A good ambassador is she.

The teenage presence, charm and grace

That matched each tender smiling face

Refreshingly a message brought

Let’s give more credit where we ought.

O’er Canada from coast to coast

We’re proud that Newfoundlanders can boast

Of having in this night a share.

Luck to New Brunswick’s Jean Anne Blair.

Daily News Headline: (In the late hours of Kingston rebellion) ‘Roman circus’ of terror

described

When from Radioland Mr. Pumphrey takes leave

One almost can hear him say “Move over Steve”

One thing for certain this Open Line host

Ambitiously will seek a cabinet post.

What better reward for this common man type

Who goes to bat daily with everyone’s gripe

Than put him on Welfare, a field he knows well

If he makes it, and that only voters can tell.

As could be expected advice was quite free

When word first got out of Ron’s candidacy

How strange that the people who called him a gem

Express loss of faith and are quick to condemn.

People like Ron doing good all along

Would normally hope that support would be strong

But anti-Joe feeling grows stronger each day

So Ron was prepared when he jumped in the fray.

Of course if he loses his fight against Morry

He just won’t indulge himself in feeling sorry

The Ombudsman job won’t be filled for a while

If they offer him that he’ll be losing in style.

Daily News Headline: Bill to limit government borrowing powers defeated

Well that’s the head, a price increase in bread

Up prices go, for that old foggy dough

‘Twould not be nice, to make a thinner slice

It’s not fat now, but watch it anyhow.

It’s hard to see, what justifies G. B.

We have the crumb, and really aren’t that dumb

No staff increased, I know some they released

Protest we must, oh boy have they got crust.

The time is ripe, for householders to gripe

Give it a try, and baker’s bread don’t buy

To wrapper up, we take our loving cup

And drink instead, a toast to home made bread.

Daily News Headline: Mineral development boom seen

Just a reminder at bedtime tonight

One little chore ere you turn out the light

Reset your clock by the side of your bed

At midnight the time will go one hour ahead.

If out on the town for a nightful of fun

Saturday twelve becomes Sunday at one

Start your night earlier this weekend date

For no matter what hour you will still come home late.

At midnight the Standard Time takes a back seat

Then Daylight Saving comes on as a treat

Each day longer, brighter as time passes by

With hopeful reminders that summer is nigh.

So think of the time change without much ado

If not Sunday plans could go so much askew

Whether partying late or just going to bed

At midnight a time change - it’s one hour ahead.

Daily News Headline: Country shows signs of economic recovery

Three scores and ten

For a number of men

Is a time to relax and lay low

But the Premier objects

And quite rightly suspects

Opposition just want him to go.

Despite such an age

There is many a sage

Who has proven to be on the ball

With a flick of the wrist

Joe came up with a list

Such as Churchill, Pope Paul and De Gaulle.

When you’re over the hill

Feeling you had your fill

Of the pressures of life, that is fine

But if your step has spring

And you’re doing your thing

You’d be not too inclined to resign.

Daily News Headline: India, Pakistan tension mounting

Driving is a full time job

With both hands on the wheel

Yet some there are who never heed

This sensible appeal.

One-armed drivers hazards pose

To those who are behind

With traffic picking up each day

In ditches some you’ll find.

Hazards all around us make

It hard enough to drive

But adding handicaps like this

Does not help stay alive.

Love might be the reason that

He snuggles with his friend

But both of them should realize

It could be journey’s end.

Daily News Headline: MPs to get pay hike?

Today the Budget speech we’ll hear

And everyone will lend an ear

Preamble takes an hour or so

And then the tidbits start to flow

It takes a most efficient staff

To separate the wheat from chaff

And being election year and all

To jack up taxes takes some gall

We see a tightening of the belt

Another blow at merchants dealt

A tax on social clubs and dues

And still another hike in booze

School allowances may fade

To offset teachers being paid

Provincial income tax could rise

Economy to equalize

Newspaper tax there might well be

As something new we’re bound to see

For this day April twenty-eight

Determines next year’s fiscal fate.

Daily News Headline: Dawe resigns cabinet post (Town affairs conducted in an “appalling, slipshod manner”)

The dilemma of Dawe is unenvied indeed

But to this Commission he had to pay heed

The pressure was on from a public quite stirred

All itching to hear Mayor Adams’ last word.

When delivered at last and the contents declared

For the worst it would seem Mr. Dawe was prepared

Had it not been election year would he still go?

The answer of course is between him and Joe.

An effective enquiry without any doubt

We speculate now how the land one makes out

It does restore faith in Commissions as such

So on Lundrigan’s lot we’ll be keeping in touch.

For Mr. Dawe’s comfort the timing was swell

There wasn’t much time on this happening to dwell

Yesterday’s Budget speech took o’er the news

And gave Eric time for some quiet adieus.

Daily News Headline: (No tax increases) (Record Expenditure) It’s Newfoundland’s biggest

The subject today, a political barb

Is the study being made here by Martin Goldfarb

In the guise of a tourist enquiry it seems

We’re victims of one of those Government schemes.

It’s very annoying this two-in-one deal

And has what is known as shoe polish appeal

Collusion is obvious, signs of cahoots

As gullible Newfies we’re getting the boots.

Through Crosbie alertness it all came to light

The whole Opposition put up a good fight

Double barrelled the job so we now understand

And the cost is three quarter of 100 grand.

The excuse of a tourist check warrants a jeer

For one thing the season itself is too near

There’s no doubt at all the whole thing is a plot

To determine if one will vote Liberal, or what.

Daily News Headline: Kierans resigns from cabinet

Not paragraphs, but tens of them, almost a hundred strong

Not just hundreds, many thousands words as well

Letters by the hundred thousands did the budget speech contain

And nothing much did any of them tell.

Education oriented were the comments Joey made

The Free Press gave a hint why this was so

A set up job it seems to make the image come out right

A foundation for the title Chancellor Joe.

Note the wording in the Budget rather vague in certain spots

Polytechnic Institute, a name that’s all

Lower Churchill, Stephenville won’t do too much this year

What point is there to mention them at all.

For Marystown and Come-by-Chance excuses were being made

But the oilfields - fabulous “if they exist”

Check the logic in ‘the greatest year in fishing history

If the catches are real good’ - you get the gist.

While in hundreds and in thousands did the words of Budget come

When it came to dollars millions did apply.

Cloud Nine is still the Premier’s novel world of politics

As he builds his little castles in the sky.

Daily News Headline: Radar site at Stephenville to close down (Forty-nine civilians affected)

Soon comes the time for the tourists

But one thing that irks me the no end

Is the type of the service we give them

For the money we want them to spend.

We fail most in restaurant service

A table gets some kind of wipe

But the crumbs are pushed right where you’re sitting

We wonder then why people gripe.

The waitress brings over a menu

No smile, special greetings, small talk

She’ll stand, heave a sign, look disgruntled

Just wait for your order and-gawk.

This I found on my travels last summer

St. John’s has a few of them too

There should be a standard for service

And menus are something else too.

Newfoundland dishes are needed

Imaginative we are not

We have the potential for tourists

Let’s really show them what we’ve got.

Daily News Headline: Police crack down on anti-war protestors

Gander makes the news again

It hungers for attention

Another launching was announced

At last week’s convention.

This airport site the Liberals chose

To kick off the election

That it is now a P.C. seat

Helped trigger the selection.

John Mahoney chose the time

To pass along a tiding

He’s running once again this time

And Harbour Main the riding.

The lid’s off and the fur will fly

They’ll shout and push and pull

It’s open season politics

So watch them shoot the bull.

Daily News Headline: Budget slated for next month

It’s not any news

There is money in booze

All the clubs seem to make a fast buck

The money in liquor

Will come in much quicker

If store renting is your good luck.

With your 20 year lease

All the public you’ll fleece

And the Government coughs up the dough

Help them out in a pinch

And the rest is a cinch

Just turn over the key and then go.

You forget management

All you do is get rent

Just endorse every cheque you receive

You can overlook talk

As you happily walk

To the bank and just laugh up your sleeve.

Daily News Headline: Creation bilingual districts recommended

Frankie and Johnnie are buddies

They both dislike Premier Joe

For the highhanded way he’s been dealing

With the people and their dough

John was Joey’s man.

Until for leader he ran.

Frankie fought Joe from the outset

While Johnnie one time tagged along

Until finally it dawned upon him

Dictatorship was much too strong

He crossed the House

To prove he’s man and not mouse.

Johnnie and Joey are at it

Fighting with hammer and tongs

Johnnie is very perceptive

And points out all of Joey’s wrongs

As a Lib Reform

He causes many a storm.

Johnnie’s no longer a Liberal

The party is strictly all ‘Joe’

It turns the weak stomach of Johnnie

He doesn’t like what they’re doin’ and so

People if you please

He’s goin’ to join the P.C.s.

So Frankie and Johnnie are buddies

Close as a glove on a hand

Claiming to have the best interests

Of the people of Newfoundland

As they join in song

“Joey’s done us all wrong”.

Daily News Headline: Sale of dollar adds fuel to money crisis

“Good morning Harry Phelan, and your good wife Kitty too

It seems that your benevolence at last caught up with you”

Named Honorary Fire Chief and presented with a scroll

The Firemen all surprised him and his virtues did extol.

This gentlemanly person born in eighteen-ninety-two

For 50 years has done a lot and all without ado

When Firemen come back wet and cold his welcome is sincere

He helps in just so many ways and spreads his special cheer

Behind the scenes for all these years in Central, East and West

He was a friend to Firemen and to this did they attest

“His faithfulness and ... loyalty ... shines like a guiding star”

“Good fellowship with each and every man” some scroll words are.

His “cordial-relations” Fire Chief Cadigan avowed

Hor Harry’s wit brings sunshine and dispels the sombre cloud

A behind the scenes do-gooder such as he rates high with me

So enjoy your coffee Harry, long may you a “Fire Chief” be.

Daily News Headline: Roberts outlines sweeping changes

A kiss goodnight, a mild caress

A heart that always says God Bless

A hand that rules with gentleness

A mother.

A helping hand, a watchful eye

A booster to lift spirits high

A shoulder strong on which to cry

A mother

A voice of comfort, words sincere

An always sympathetic ear

A wand to make woes disappear

A mother

A ray of hope, a shining star

A love unending, near or far

A thought of you where’er you are

A mother.

A strong supporter, loyal fan

From child to womanhood or man

A lady there’s no greater than

A mother.

Daily News Headline: Residents evacuate shattered village

Know your Policeman and see what he does

Whether you call him gendarme, cop or the fuzz

He’ll chat with you freely and help all he can

For he’s just a quite ordinary hard working man

He too has a family whom he must support

Working various shifts in all weather’s no sport

But his job is demanding and he will be there

Though it’s thankless at times, he does more than his share

Get to know him this week speak to all whom you see

Whether local policeman or R.C.M.P.

Call in at their stations and see what they do

And take along all of the children with you

Policemen will welcome you tell you the score

Good liaison is needed, there’s room for much more

It’s open house week, they will welcome you all

So let’s make it our business to pay them a call.

Daily News Headline: U.S. soldiers killed 60 say Viet women

There is much to be said

Of the road overhead

That arterial access to town

But the day is long dead

When it just goes ahead

And opposers accept with a frown

Southside residents all

Meeting at Kilbride Hall

Took exception to some of the plans

To avoid being misled

They wanted answers instead

And for hearings are making demands

As yet no one forgot

Deals for Lundrigan’s lot

And the money they made on their land

People now firmly state

If they expropriate

They will want a good price cash in hand

It’s a good thing of course

People have such recourse

And can rightfully take a firm stance

So Southsiders insist

Which is quite a good twist

That they want to know plans in advance.

Daily News Headline: Party secretly explores Argentia (Incident related to PET by letter

How dare Frank Moores goof off like that

And take a holiday

Only the Premier has the right

To swiftly dash away

How dare Frank Moores spend his own cash

Under Bermuda skies

While Joey travels everywhere

On trips we subsidize

How dare Frank Moores lie low like this

And doing what he choose

He should be calling names like Joe

And keeping in the news

How dare Frank Moores so subtle be

And move behind the scenes

While Joey is confined to base

To fight the House sleveens.

Daily News Headline: Another round of inflation feared

If using medicines today

Be sure to put them all away

Well out of reach of little hands

You can’t assume he understands

That handsome boy or pretty girl

Can you around a finger twirl

It’s not enough to say “don't touch”

That fancy bottle tempts too much

Indeed it’s not enough to chide

But put away insecticide

Or any household poison stuff

We just can’t be careful enough

Take the advice of Dr. Joy

Protect your little girl and boy

This week and always be alert

It saves you both from being hurt.

Daily News Headline: (St. John’s one of nine) New national ports policy gives more local autonomy

That far away look in the eye

Of each male as you pass him by

Suggests the 24th is nigh

It’s fishin’ time - rod, reel and fly.

They’ll pitch a tent, a cabin book

And head out for their favourite brook

Or some big pond with special nook

And hopefully a winner hook.

They’ll clown it up and have a booze

When they feel like it have a snooze

They’re free to wander as they choose

And quietly on Nature muse.

A peace and comfort they will find

That eases tensions of the mind

From pace of life they will unwind

Thus are they all one of a kind.

Some lucky ones will catch big trout

And some will have to be fished out

Some others fishing tales will spout

On which we’ll cast a little doubt.

Daily News Headline: Unemployment soars to 16.4 per cent

In the ring of politicing

One can hear the eyeballs clicking

As the tempo of campaigning picks up steam

First there’s Gerald Oppenheimer

A P.C. election primer

And then follows an announcement of a team.

Chewing on his hard tobaccy

From St. Brendan’s, Capt. Mackie

Elmer Bursey, Botwood’s mayor, joins the trap

What for Liberals could be “worser”

Is a businessman Graham Mercer

Who from Upper Island Cove fills in the group

Harold Gosse, a Spaniard’s Bay man

Says he wants to have a say, man

In there too, Bill Doody P.C. President

A George Innes rumor reaches

From the King’s and Plate Cove beaches

Rossie’s stronghold will be taken by this gent

Corner Brook rolls out the barrel

Where a Doctor, Thomas Farrel

Has achieved in P.C. circles some renown

And the latest hopeful member

Has a name you will remember

Would you believe another ‘Billie Brown’.

Daily News Headline: Premier happy with economy report (Sees “great future” in fishery)

“Will you come up to my banquet”, said the Government one day

“We’ll have quite a tasty dinner and you will not have to pay”

“Just forget the names we called you and that bit about ‘pop’ gun

We have raised your wages, surely you can join us in some fun”.

All agreed and bowed in thank you and the banquet day was set

Until someone asked the question “Did the Government forget?”

“See, they have not asked Sir Robert” was the rumble from the boys

“We will just boycott the dinner”, the Committee said with poise

“If our honorary member isn’t asked (His name is Wells)

We will take him out to dinner at one of the choice motels”.

So the banquet was a smasher and the ones who should be there

Should have been advised: “You’re thoughtful but no thanks, it’s quite unfair”.

“You worked hard, we worked together, I know when to draw the line

To the banquet now get going, don’t push luck you’re doing fine”.

Daily News Headline: Dispute resolved after threat of court action levelled at Noseworthy

A tremendous transformation taking place most every day

As the traffic islands, parks, all do their thing

For the sudden burst of color as the flowers quickly grow

Is enough to make non-musical types sing.

Every daffodil and crocus brings a pureness to our view

Undefiled it stands, a beauty to behold

And in multiple the whites and purples, reds and other hues

Add a wealth of beauty quite unmatched in gold.

Life’s creations spread before us in a uniform array

City Council of its “islands” may be proud

It relaxes many drivers as they wait or pass them by

And can help dispel a day of mental cloud.

It’s a preface to the summer as the trees all burst in bud

There is joy in every flower that blooms anew

Nature’s own display of beauty is improving every day

So designed for its beholders, me and you.

Daily News Headline: (Equal pay for equal work controversy) Premier, Crosbie bring House issue to shouting climax

NGEA voters who thought well of CUPE

Were anxious to have themselves renamed as NUPE

Better CFGEO remain happy

And so they elected to call themselves NAPE

The trend is a name with some catchy initials

It makes an impression on certain officials

But try to pronounce this new name that took shape

Do we say it as ‘nappy’ or is it plain NAPE

If it is nape it won’t earn much respec’

Who wants to be in the “the back part of the neck”

Yet it gives food for thought for some possible names

And could be the greatest at house party games.

Research and Technology Scientists - RATS

Better Approach Towards Sanity - BATS

The United Maternity Sisters - are TUMS

Backdoor United Manure Service - BUMS

Daily News Headline: Four dead: Three die in TCH pile-up

CN now gives us all a chance

To see a little part of France

Just ten bucks added to your fare

Takes you along to St. Pierre.

You’re guaranteed a lot of sport

On each trip to the “Petite Forte”

The boat leaves Fortune twice a week

But reservations you must seek.

If you want ‘in’, get on the ball

Give Agent, Argentia, a call

Or if you’re driving Fortune way

Boat leaves eleven each Friday.

On Tuesday also it leaves there

To make a trip to St. Pierre

It’s two hours steaming time each day

And there’s a one hour port delay.

One thing you’ll need, for what it’s worth

License, L.D., or proof of birth

A novel trip the C.N. way

Let’s see now - “parlez vous francais?”.

Daily News Headline: MUN, St. Clare’s reveal joint plans for new rheumatic, psychiatric units

Hick

Got the flick

‘Twas rather quick

The Speaker ruled and made it stick

It hit him like a ton of brick

Almost seemed like a dirty trick

Steve

Made believe

That up his sleeve

He knew things that caused him to grieve

Got mad and had, with no reprieve,

To leave

Joe

As you know

Can insults throw

The belt he often hits below

Berates someone as so and so

But never gets the old heave ho

Oh no.

Still

On the hill

Enjoy you will

The fur that flies with each new bill

As innuendos freely spill

The pattern’s changed - Joe had his fill

Oh thrill!

Daily News Headline: U.S. and Soviets to limit nuclear arms

They’ve all returned to work again

These fishermen

With brand new tales of hefty fish

They only wish

You could have seen before that day

They got away.

So tired, how easily they yawn

As they are gone

For lack of sleep through early rise

In pre-dawn skies

And late at night did they retire

By camping fire.

With bloodshot eyes and wind-tanned skin

They look all in

As all that walking for the trout

Has fagged them out

Despite it all they ache, these fishermen

Will go again.

Daily News Headline: Search continues for victims of ship fire

There is much to be learned from the aged

Who’ve travelled the highway of life

Who have met all the challenge of living

And put in the background their strife.

There is much to be learned from the aged

Who coped with each trouble and trial

Their features of wrinkles reflecting

Hard working years of denial.

There is much to be learned from the aged

Whose smile so developed through years

Shows only the bright side of living

With no evidence of their tears.

There is much to be learned from the aged

Who pages of history have made

We can chat with them, listen, enjoy them

Discussing life’s passing parade.

There are things we can do for the aged

As life’s lease is due to expire

Pleasant words, little deeds, just your presence

They will treasure and always admire.

Daily News Headline: Etchegary warns of fishery collapse

The 24th is history now

We should be proud of it somehow

As all returned quite safe and sound

No accidents, none lost and found

This year the men seemed more alert

Precautions took to not be hurt

In fog they ventured not alone

Too risky going on one’s own.

There was a heavy traffic flow

With boats and trailers on the go

But caution seemed to be the rule

And no one tried to act the fool

A word of praise to all who fished

Had fun, in safety, as they wished

And splendid fish now on display

Proves all big ones don’t get away.

Daily News Headline: (Gov’t must guarantee total cost) Come By Chance wharf signing expected soon

Electricians it seems got a bit of a “shock”

When employers decided their doors they would lock

There was well-founded rumor of impending strike

Because the men wanted a “current” pay hike.

They have to stay “ohm” now, a stand they have made

And show their “resistance” by picket parade

A “test” of their “amperage” this may well be

The “charges” we pick up by paying their fee.

The I.B.E.W. “circuit” is clear

In their “sockets” to ‘em approach they’re sincere

They’ll not “switch” their minds, “plug” away at the strike

While the customers fume, “blow a fuse” if you like.

Daily News Headline: (Expelled for one week) Smallwood attacks Marshall

Come all you voters young and old an ear unto me lend

About our politicians, how our time and money spend

They argue and they hassle and the fancy words do flow

They call each other everything, it makes a real good show.

They can’t say “punk” or “you’re a liar”, it’s not in proper taste

It can be said in other ways while time and money waste

The verbal lashings that they give would sometimes make you heave

And for a poorly choice of words Tom Hickey had to leave.

Now all that’s bad enough we know, and sounds a little rough

But what think you when members now resort to fisticuff

Bill Marshall, call him Lawyer One, for he was first to speak

Provoked Bill Smallwood, Lawyer Two, who hit him in the beak.

It seems that Lawyer No 1 did legal friends defend

Slum housing landlord he was not, he strongly did contend

The Premier’s wife such house did rent, it was on Bulley Street

At these words Lawyer Two, her son, jumped quickly to his feet.

He crossed the House, then made a poke, to everyone’s surprise

The white-faced Lawyer One did nought but cover up his eyes

By this time Collins (note the name) came strong to his defence

The Green Bay whacker was subdued, the chamber feeling - tense.

The father shouted to the son, so exit Lawyer Two

A week’s suspension from the House the Speaker felt was due

Lawyer Two assured himself (he knew the chance he took)

That he had earned himself a special place in Father’s history book.

Daily News Headline: U.S. spacecraft on way to Mars

The car drew up beside me as I walked to work from home

My fellow worker passed a comment on a recent poem

We spoke of things that people do to make worthwhile their night

He said: “Here’s an idea, about lazy people ... write”.

I know the point he’s making and with him I quite agree

There are quite a lot of people who have much time to be free

Yet they have no special hobbies, and most certainly don’t yearn

To any way improve themselves or any new things learn.

This man’s an entertainer, one who likes to give his best

He practices a lot his songs, and also plays with zest

He has that certain feeling that his talents should be used

By his standards lazy people cannot ever be excused.

It seems that most use extra time to do a worthwhile thing

Take part in sports, paint, study, act, or write or dance or sing

To visit sick, to help distressed, serve one’s community

If you have time to spare change it to productivity.

Daily News Headline: (Proposed ferry rates “savagely exorbitant”) JRS blasts federal government

Thanks dear readers, missed you too

And pleased at the response from you

“The gloves are off” as Frank Moores said

So off we go full steam ahead,

It seems that renamed body - NAPE

Already is in desperate shape

Attempts being made in devious ways

To hush up their G.M. - John Hayes.

The 3 in1 suspension bit

With “walkouts” caused a deficit

In MHAs, and there was one

From Lib ranks too, the Premier’s son.

No ballast in a boat, unwise

It could now any day capsize.

The rocking nearly did the trick

By now all hands are stomach sick.

To this stage Moores was at slow burn

Until at St. John’s East Extern

He “named” some members Monday night

Exploding just like dynamite.

Continued blasts will rent the air

This fight will be beyond compare

Both sides this point in time uptight

Just itching for the plebiscite.

Daily News Headline: Eric Kierans criticizes federal economic policies

(Comments: Verse 2, Line 1: The word “seems” was printed in the paper as “means”.  In the cutout I have, Dad (Nish) has crossed out “means” and penciled in “seems”. See the graphic to the left.)

By St. Pat’s Mercy Home there stood 140 boys

A police car drove up, they closed in

When he used the loudspeaker, they went closer still

But we heard that he said o’er the din.

“Keep right on Elizabeth all of the way

Left at Anderson, then carry on

Be careful”, we heard him say Thursday night past

The occasion - St. Bon’s Runathon.

From Grades 6 to 9 were scampering lads

The run itself was a three mile

The fact that the proceeds to Janeway would go

For them made it really worthwhile.

The school added trophies to spur the lads on

Many doctors examined the crew

The near gross of runners by Walter Walsh led

Saw Carl Simmons take place No. 2.

Grade 8 took next honors, these two were from 9

As Sean Murphy got spot No. 3

The sixes and sevens for Janeway pushed on

And finished quite spiritedly.

Daily News Headline: Cabinet changes may be announced today

The P.C. river onward flows

More fascinating as it goes

Enriched by tributaries rare

Until it grows beyond compare

The staunch and stalwart minor group

Together formed a manly troup

Supported as they neared the end

By Crosbie whom they did befriend

For moral reasons he went slow

A sudden switch too hard a blow

And credible he would not be

To overnight become P.C.

He thought it out, did Crosbie John

And in his own way carried on

In his beliefs, and caused concern

As Liberal ears begun to burn

June 3 at last decision came

P.Cs. and Crobie were the same

He joined their ranks, whate'er the lures

And got a firm handshake from Moores

Crosbies - Conservatives before

Recall Sir John in '24

Who ran as well in St. John's West

John must have passed the P.C. test.

Daily News Headline: Province owns offshore minerals: Smallwood

What do you do

When they squash the Tattoo

Whoever the nitwits may be

For that special touch

Could have added so much

And tourists would pay a small fee

A quarter a car

Would help fill up the jar

For adults on foot just a dime

The returns would be good

And most certainly would

Help pay for itself in due time

The militia it seems

Must reduce all its schemes

This year’s summer camp is taboo

The austerity kick

Is a little bit sick

Just imagine, no camp or Tattoo

The ones who decide

Should get tanned on the hide

Opportunities like this are few

But we learn to expect

Automatic reject

Even though it's worthwhile like Tattoo.

Daily News Headline: Space laboratory moves into larger earth orbit

There’s a trend, you look closely you’ll find it

Some think that J.R. has designed it

The last of the big spenders

Is putting out tenders

And of course there is something behind it

The DREE program enters the picture

With tenders for schools and wharves which are

Being spread far and thin

To get votes coming in

With the image we’re suddenly richer

The Government’s own advertising

Some highways and schools now comprising

Causeway at Twillingate

Promised in ‘68

Is being tendered again, not surprising.

The ads will be much faster coming

While Joey support will be drumming

An election he’ll call

In the very late fall

When he sees all the projects are humming.

Daily News Headline: (Crosbie charges:) Cashin making political hay

It’s a new kind of ball game

Strikes all over the place

Electricians, fishermen, council too

Being on strike is the “in” thing to do

So it’s all aboard the bandwagon

Whatever your Union name

Yes it’s one, two, three strikes or more

That’s the new ball game

It’s a new kind of ball game

Try to follow the crowd

All through the year we’ve been plagued with strikes

The main theme seems to be salary hikes

So it’s just a new set of banners

The idea is the same

Yes it’s one, two, three strikes or more

That’s the new ball game.

Daily News Headline: Rails will stay says CN’s Tingley

(Comment: This is set to the tune of "Take Me Out To The Ballgame")

The school year now draws to a close

The kids keep parents on their toes

They need a costume for a play

For special dances or ballet

The glee club program means a lot

And then class speak-offs have a spot

It’s all just like a big parade

You must of course support each grade

The sports day too you patronize

See them compete to win a prize

Much to be done, so much to buy

But aren’t you really glad to try

For all too soon on you ‘twill dawn

The family has grown and gone

How nice if you look back and say

I’m glad I helped them on their way.

Daily News Headline: (Launched court actions against John C. Doyle) Jaegerman barred from exchange

I do suggest for safety’s sake

Some firmer steps police should take

About those who in early nights

Drive carelessly with no headlights.

I’ve narrowly missed being hit

By those whose headlights were not lit

And accidents there will be yet

For those who drove in silhouette.

Dusk always is a tricky time

One’s judgement isn’t at its prime

Illusions certainly there are

How far away that unlit car?

Perhaps a warning flashlight blink

By our police would make us think

That what we’re doing isn’t right

‘Lights on’ with the approaching night.

Parking lights are meant for ‘park’

And not for driving in the dark

Those who elect to drive this way

May not again see light of day.

Daily News Headline: (Federal-provincial conference opens) Premiers disagree from onset

It’s refreshing to see a political gem

Who sparkles, through thick in the middle of them

Showing integrity right from the start

The role that she’s chosen has set her apart.

It’s Dorothy Wyatt we name at this time

Who finds being herself is a real up hill climb

It takes much tenacity, gumption and grit

Having made a commitment, adhering to it.

In keeping her promise to each winning vote

She finds other Councillors right at her throat

It’s hard to imagine why all the dissent

When she had the courage to say what she meant.

Publicity conscious they make her appear

But isn’t it just that she’s being sincere

This honest approach must hurt some to the core

But this type of person we need more and more.

Daily News Headline: Bourassa proposal has little success at constitutional talks

At last at last there’s something free

If we just go down to the sea

As little fishes by the grand

Roll in with waves to where we stand.

For some the novelty’s a treat

To catch the caplin they will eat

For others it is just a chore

They gather them for crop manure.

In hand or bucket, net or dish

We catch the slippery silver fish

A tasty morsel too they make

So help yourself they’re yours to take.

To all the beaches and the coves

The city folks rush out in droves

To see this strange phenomenon

The early summer caplin spawn.

Daily News Headline: (Pre-budget white paper tabled) Unemployment listed as priority problem

It’s a pleasure to stroll in one’s garden these days

Or walk to one’s place of employ

The fragrance of lilacs that freshens the air

Is truly a fragrance of joy.

The beauty of nature one wants to extol

And applaud her appealing display

The new burst of life is a joy to behold

With colours in bounteous array.

The sweet summer scents wafted by gentle breeze

On bright cloudless sunny-skied days

Bring uplift of spirits and contagious smile

As lilac time brightens our days.

Daily News Headline: Constitution-making will continue in all capitals (Governments give themselves June 28 deadline)

With all the kiddies out of school

Let caution be the traffic rule

The streets will echo with their noise

Those effervescent girls and boys.

In their exuberance and glee

At times they may not careful be

And worst of all are little tykes