January 1975

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A time of good cheer

It’s another New Year

A good one to just be alive

Hitch on to some hope

Give yourself some rope

To see you through Seventy Five.

In the season of peace

New Year gives a new lease

An outlook exceedingly bright

May the year for you bring

The best of everything

Ring it in with excitement tonight.

Daily News Headline: MONKEY BUSINESS DELAYS OIL REFINERY (Who is the man Shaheen refers to as Mr. Monkey Business?)

I’m two days old and on my own

A hearty welcome did I get

And this until my dying day

I never really will forget.

I’m different from most of you

My days are numbered, so to speak

But it’s all part of being me

I’ll carry on without a squeak

During my life I’ll have effect

On each and every one of you

And when I’m finished you’ll know why

That what I’m saying now is true

I’m two days old, that isn’t much

But in due time I will impress

Each one of you, know who I am

The New Year, silly, can’t you guess?

Daily News Headline: (Crosbie, Doody on Shaheen) It’s his monkey!

The piling high drifts of the substance of white

A nightmare for adults, a children’s delight

Snow, one weather form, with a purpose indeed

Fills both a serious and jocular need.

It does mean employment for workers involved

Garages help motorists get problems resolved

It means that machinery must be supplied

Its employment aspects cannot be denied.

It’s a source of delight for each girl and each boy

And can bring to them hours of real outdoor joy

When snowdrifts subside, and outside they can play

Make snowballs, snowmen, use it any which way.

Snowball fighting, sliding, and skiing are fun

Not enough time to get all these things done

Snow’s a source of delight, it means other things too

Let’s make the best of it, what else can we do.

Daily News Headline: (Frank’s fireside chat) First shot in campaign?

Youth Parliament is over, their debating

On issues topical their skills did show

But in their search for some attention-getters

They dealt our sense of values quite a blow.

Removing God from their oath of allegiance

Despite rebuttal, retrogression is

Or can we give them credit for being subtle

To see if such assertions on us fizz.

If this a cry for help, a distress signal

Are they direction seeking, can it be

They’re challenging the standards adults live by

To shake us out of our complacency.

Frank Galgay, educator, with conviction

Objection raised, and his stand I admire

On radio I said it was disgusting

Press, radio, TV should be on fire.

A friend of mine speaks oft of “gutless wonders”

How right he is, we grumble but that’s all

No follow up, no backbone to persuasion

The rebel groups gain headway by their gall.

It’s time we spoke our minds, and this, the limit

Should have our papers flooded with comment

Unless we fight for God’s acknowledged presence

We condone the actions of the dissident.

Alone, or with support, what they’re suggesting

I challenge and would openly debate

A tidal wave of protest we should witness

But we’ll play the ostrich, I prognosticate.

Daily News Headline: (Trawler strike heats up) Plan to block welfare offices

Have you heard Dottie’s ho ho ho

The Council must clean up the snow

Your car, if parked, away will go

For an involuntary tow.

Around the schools there’s action now

But would it not make sense somehow

School areas would get a plow

Vacation time, and not just now.

Perhaps the Council workers got

Some extra holidays from Dot

The labor situations hot

Something’s brewing, wonder what?

Has sidewalk clearing been deferred

Or has the fabled little bird

Been whispering but not being heard

Pedestrians find it absurd.

After the next big fall of snow

Just see how quickly it will go

The reason’s simple, as you know

It’s paid for with each car they tow.

Daily News Headline: Shovel-wielding man attacks snowplow operator during street cleaning...

There’s much optimism among the P.Cs

The Premier projects we’ll be rich

On oil explorations our future will hinge

Presuming ‘twill go without hitch

The TV appearance of Premier Moores

With sate of the Province address

Was long overdue from a PR concept

There should be more of them I guess

Other newsmakers upstaged Frankie D.

He started it off with a bang

The other headliners will soon pick it up

But mostly it is the same gang.

Daily News Headline: (Welfare for strikers?) Frank says “NO!”

They threw me outdoors

After stripping me bare

For weeks they admired me

But now they don’t care.

I gave them such pleasure

I shared in their fun

But out I must go

A good job I have done

The whole Christmas season

Was special for me

Life’s worth it when you’ve been

Someone’s Christmas Tree.

Daily News Headline: (After eight hours of talks) Fish union won’t budge

No one really likes

The existence of strikes

They presently on two peninsulas are

From trawlers at Burin

The men are endurin’

And plan to stick with it having gone this far.

The other hot spot

With the council and Dot

Is here in St. John’s, that’s the Avalon one.

Though it started out silly

It could be a dilly

With labor and management under the gun.

Though important they be

Yet more seriously

We should look for some action, action I repeat

Against those who bring strife

To a fishermen’s life

The riot act read to the whole Russian fleet.

Daily News Headline: (They are right!!) Trawlermen deserve public support

Snowmen are easy

For children to make

Ingenuity show

And a little time take.

Dressing them up

When finished is fun

Proudly they point to it

“Look what we’ve done”

Always encourage

The creative touch

Snowmen, all ages

Delight us so much.

Small ones or big ones

They all turn out right

A bright spot in winter

A children’s delight.

Daily News Headline: (Premier meets labor heads) Welfare for strikers?

It’s a border-line case of police being armed

If they do, up go innocents’ chance of being harmed

There is in the background one obvious flaw

And that’s simply a matter of teeth in the law.

When people are bent on destruction and crime

(Today’s way of life lends itself to such clime)

There must be convictions, and sentences tough

Like Stephenville, Magistrate White calls their bluff.

We citizens must be responsible too

We can’t leave it all for policemen to do

We’ve got to report things and witnesses be

For protection of ourselves and our property

Arm the police? I would strongly exhort

This be deferred, be a final resort

Rather more law enforcement equipment and men

If armed they won’t be the same ever again.

Daily News Headline: (City workers back) Really over?

Before the scrap business gets off the ground

There’s a scrap about it under way

Steve Neary calls it party faithful reward

A coincidence in every way.

But that isn’t news and the patronage bit

Steve will know of being in cabinet

Building, electric and paving contracts

And leased liquor stores, don’t forget.

Mullaly in politics has been for years

In background his work is intense

However the new job developed for him

It seems like a fair recompense.

We do need disposal of vehicle wrecks

And if some employment ensues

That seems to be much more important by far

Than which manager did they choose.

Daily News Headline: (Higgins lashes Dot) “Inefficient and incompetent”

A sorry state

We’ve reached of late

To hear such terminology

If I were one

Under the gun

I’d demand an apology

‘Twould matter not

If it were Dot

Or anyone in Mayor’s chair

If called a pig

I’d flip her wig

Council spends so much time down there

I thought the kid

Had flipped her lid

But of this one need never fear

She’s making hay

In her own way

It’s International Women’s Year.

Daily News Headline: (Conflict of interest deadline is passed) Frank off the payroll?

At increased price of beer per mug

Holes soon will be in pockets dug

And there will be no chug-a-lug.

The humble brew with foamy top

Which Ank once promised he would drop

Instead is reaching for the top.

It’s obvious we’ll see anew

An upsurge in the home made brew

Success though comes to very few

Whether your choice be ale or beer

The sudsy stuff is much too dear

But guzzled still will be I fear

Once beer the poor man’s drink we’d hail

But now it’s quite another tale

Oh well there’s always some Haig Ale.

Daily News Headline: (Failure to meet conflict of interest deadline) Called an oversight

If you like fishing in the spring

Casting a line to do your thing

You’ll know that patience is a key

If you’re to fish successfully.

In winter more so you will find

A certain boggling of the mind

Doing your darnedest to be nice

While fishing through the thickest ice.

With sweat and toll some holes you make

But just before you take a break

You walk back to the first hole when

You have to break the ice again.

You swing your arms and dance a jig

To help keep warm you take a swig

You bait, you wait, you have a snort

Some fish you’ll catch, but not much sport.

Daily News Headline: School tax is in!!

When funeral processions pass

With headlights on though it be day

Is this sufficient of itself

To grant them all the right of way.

In deference to those bereaved

And other mourners who attend

Motorists will mostly wait

And certain courtesies extend.

At intersection cars will wait

But a procession may be long

And when on green light cars don’t move

The ones behind think something’s wrong.

Should funeral and wedding cars

By lights be guided as they go?

Or can they the red lights ignore

And create their own traffic flow.

Perhaps it should be clarified.

Is going through red lights ok

In such processions as we cite?

What does Traffic Department say?

Daily News Headline: (Montreal gangland horror story) 13 mass murdered

A background of tension

A foreman’s suspension

An in again, out again strikers parade

The whole situation

Lacked communication

Resulting in several boo-boos being made.

Good Labour Relations

Some investigations

Would minimize union reaction as such.

It’s time they all hurry

Their hatchets to bury

With reality instead of headlines in touch.

Daily News Headline: (Moves into Metro Toronto after exchanging three kids for car) Gunman fires at police

A family is everything

It’s laughter and it’s fun

It’s working hard, togetherness,

And getting something done.

It’s sharing and it’s loving

It’s good times and it’s bad

It’s togetherness in laughter

It’s togetherness when sad.

A family is everything

In yours take active part

Each for the other special place

Should hold within his heart.

Daily News Headline: (Unless public interest in jeopardy, strike will have) No government intervention

Censorship is gone, no one conforms

Society no longer has its norms

A planned erosion, skillfully designed

Has every moral fibre undermined

It is a phase, and quickly I’ll agree

We have no right to invade privacy

Yet CBC through use of its TV

Did that precisely, to a rare degree

By mixing with a program labelled news

A nude performance; I too share the views

That this in such a program is misplaced

While certainly unethical in taste

The morals aspect laying to the side

If it’s condoned what next will they decide

Most parents bring perspective into play

When dealing with their children day by day

And with reserve lifes messages impart

With mutual respect and loving heart.

Another note, the book stores we admit

Must take all mags to make a go of it

Yet even so there is no force to say

The barest magazines they must display

I quite object and CBC should know

The nude direction’s not the way to go

Common to all viewers there should be

From CBC respect and decency.

Daily News Headline: (On drugs since 12, ... mother tells court) Youth given 2 years to live

Another fire, another nightclub gone

A blank spot in their night life some will face

Few weeks ago the Donovans Club got it

The scene of fire this time the Dory (Trot and Pace).

The wooden block of which it formed a corner

Is otherwise untouched, the fire confined

To that one building only, which to neighbours

Restored at least a little peace of mind.

No loss of life, no injuries to mention

Affords a chance, and this we gladly do

To compliment for skill and dedication

The Firemen, to whom much credit is due.

Daily News Headline: (First time in Newfoundland?) Explosives used to blast safe

Amazing isn’t it how we

Can fall into complacency

We gripe when something gets our goat

But hesitate to rock the boat

When something meaningful to us

Is threatened, we will make a fuss

But privately, and no one knows

That anyone objects I suppose.

Where have all the churches gone

Concerned groups, P.T.A’s, so on

When there is need to vocal be

On calibre of our TV.

Or others that require a stand

It’s time for some to show their hand.

Daily News Headline: (Angry Mount Pearl taxpayers) Seek resignation of town council

The giving of a pint of blood

A half an hour or so will take

Which is but an extension of

What some would call a coffee break

But what time converted means

In terms of an emergency

Perhaps we’ll never really know

But yet there is a guarantee

That having blood available

Every day some lives can save

This simple thought is your reward

That of yourself you freely gave.

Support the clinics of Red Cross

Whenever they’re around your way

Who knows how quickly you may be

On the receiving end some day.

Daily News Headline: (To pay “decent living wage” dairies must get) 75 ¢ for quart of milk

The flaky snow will scenic picture make

Until the winds, the falling snow will take,

Diverted from its very select course,

Until it changes to a biting force.

When together these two elements perform,

We find ourselves the victims of a storm,

The snow keeps falling blotting out the sun,

The winds keep howling not to be out done.

So storm it is, routines are shattered now,

The motor car gives way to sturdy plow,

The businesses, the schools, the traffic halt,

With temperatures and wind and snow at fault.

As you dig out this morning, you will find

A storm has good points as if so designed,

There’s more communication, people talk,

And exercise they get, some have to walk.

Daily News Headline: (Snow, winds batter island) Schools, businesses close

Despite the snow and cold severe

Some birds are on the scene

Which usually don’t come by

Till winter’s a has-been.

But there’s a nasty species

That’s on the scene as well

Not robins, starlings, or the like

They’re jailbirds, you can tell.

This type appears in little groups

And specialize in crime

The laws and their defenders both

They’re all out to defy ‘em.

Those jailbirds feel a bit secure

They plan well, it’s surmised

But our police will clip their wings

They’re better organized.

Daily News Headline: (Crosbie tells Cashin) Statements by Hickman were his own

The loaves were busy chattering

While lined up on the shelf

One voice above the others boomed:

“I’m proud of it myself”.

“People always did compare

Money with us you know”

“That’s right, if someone struck it rich

They’d say he’s in the dough”.

“And kids today in money talk

Say Bread, isn’t that nice?”

“What say we cheat a little bit

And give them one less slice?”

“Hold on, don’t blow your yeast my friend

We’re rising very fast

But don’t forget that home made bread

Has all of us outclassed”.

“Well I don’t go along with that

Oops, see I told you so

Some lady likes me ‘cause I’m fresh

On bread she’s spending dough”.

Daily News Headline: No end to deep freeze?

The badge of perfection they wear each performance

By painstaking practice they’ve reached this plateau

Enjoying their music and song while performing

Rapport with the audience highlights the show.

Toe tapping music and sing-a-long melodies

Songs that are rendered with feelings we hear

Novelty numbers and skits so lighthearted

New songs, and some you hear all through the year.

Always presentable, gentlemen each of them

Theirs is a standard that’s much in demand

Good entertainment with varied arrangements

A legion of talents, the Carlton Showband.

Daily News Headline: Labor calls for $4 minimum wage (But walks out of public hearings)

I walk with confidence

In cane of white

I ease my way along

Bereft of sight.

I try a lot alone

It helps me much

I feel dependent on

My sense of touch.

Your help I welcome too

God bless your sight

Darkness a world I know

Yours mostly light.

Limits that I have

I recognize

But I have learned to live

Through other eyes.

You see me now

Because it’s White Cane Week

But anytime of year

Feel free to speak.

Unless you do

I may not know you’re there

But when it’s campaign time

I know you care.

Daily News Headline: Now it’s $7 million for parking garage

It’s a ticklish situation on the tickle

Isolation brought about by ice

Helicopter service to the rescue

And in St. John’s the snow is not so nice.

The City Council spoiled b recent seasons

Monies allowed, but not nearly enough

Reflecting a non-realistic savings

For a normal winter when the going’s rough.

Bell Island or St. John’s or Wabush City

Will always have such problems at their door

A little bit of foresight and good planning

Will help cope with what nature has in store.

Daily News Headline: (Premier’s letter to public) Gov’t “welshing” on promise to trawlermen, Cashin says

Lent has arrived and it’s early

A forty day pause in the year

In older days time for reflection

And penance and fasting and prayer.

The usual signs are declining

But there are observers of Lent

Who privately have a renewal

That may not be so evident.

They don’t speak unkindly of others

Give charity where no one knows

Pray with a little more feeling

Their inner strength steadily grows.

The churches have Lenten devotions

Inviting us all to take part

The message of Lent is redemption

May you be redeemed in your heart.

Daily News Headline: Get ready for more of this!! (Cars can move by permit only again today, traffic ban may be extended)

Sweethearts with their special expressions of love

Can combat the roughest of storm

Through snow to the rooftops and bitterly cold

To the thoughts of romance one can warm.

Young sweethearts, old ones, it matters not much

We especially welcome the pause

Each of us now makes a real special effort

To tell someone special we love them because.....

Whoever be that delight of your lifetime

In whom you admit you are taking a shine

May moments be tenderly ever remembered

And happiness be yours on this Valentine.

Daily News Headline: (Emergency over ... for now, but) School’s out until Monday

Impaired drivers go on unrestricted,

Every rule of safety they defy,

Rear windows with ice and snow are heavy,

With guess work and some luck they all get by.

Side windows with snow and vapor covered,

Leaving only now a frontal view,

But even that is much reduced in vision,

Some just scrape a little hole they can see through.

So off they go their lethal weapons pointed,

Defrosters take a while the view to clear,

Not all, but far too many drivers do it,

For laziness, the price could be quite dear.

Daily News Headline: Gov’t doesn’t accept his report: Harris

Impaired drivers daily are increasing

Every rule of safety they defy

Rear windows with ice and snow are heavy

With guesswork and some luck they’re getting by.

Side ones are with snow and vapour covered

Leaving only now a frontal view

But even that is much reduced in vision

Some just scrape a little hole they can see through.

So off they go, their lethal weapons pointed

Defrosters take a while the view to clear

Not all, but far too many drivers do it

For laziness the price could be quite dear.

Daily News Headline: Have you seen this woman?

Comment: This poem is obviously a slightly edited version of the previous poem. This is the only example of this I've seen in the entire collection.

What is commitment? Does anyone know?

The Government surely does not

Check their reaction when Cashin divulged

A letter received and why not?

The fine tooth comb treatment was given to it

Certain key words were picked out

As being interpreted wrongly by Rick

And causing John Crosbie to spout

One up for Cashin cash in when you can

It’s a serious business, not sport

Nor politics, surely it shouldn’t be so

And what of the Harris report.

Is that an exercise in futility too

Could his efforts sincere be in vain

It looks like a whole stalling process we’ve seen

Evidence of inaction again.

Daily News Headline: Chilly Britons debate Queen’s pay hike

If you have a peeve

You can tell it to Steve

Mr. Neary now has his own show

Pass on your gripe

To this ombudsman type

And in language we know - lef’ er go.

There’s a bit of mayhem

Out at VOCM

The Premier it seems has pulled rank

Understand Mr. Moores

Won’t be goin’ through their doors

For those frank conversations with Frank.

Steve will find it quite tough

Should someone call his bluff

To come up with an impartial view

But in time we will know

Meanwhile on with the show

The political pot has to brew.

Daily News Headline: (Trepassey and Shea Heights) Pleading for end to strike

In my books there is no room

For those who use a nom-de-plume

To write a nasty letter to the press

In weekend letters some old hack

Our Mayor Wyatt did attack

Her person, her behaviour, and her dress.

The time has come it seems to me

To stop this anonymity

If something to be said just spit it out

Not venomously and obscure

But over one’s own signature

That’s what freedom of the press is all about

Daily News Headline: Stiff market competition spells trouble for refinery expansion?

26,000 fingers crossed

In hopes that all will not be lost

For the Kiwanis Music Festival

The 13,000 who’ll take part

At Arts and C. and Holy Heart

To music week looked forward best of all

The word is that the judges may

Through strikes be subject to delay

Which if postponed beyond a day or two

Will meant he bookings will be shot

And probably will, like as not

Mean Festival postponement, prospect blue

The hardworking Kiwanis must

In all the children put their trust

That their sincerity will see them through

For months they practiced and we know

They won’t too easily let go

Let’s hope it goes ahead when it is due.

Daily News Headline: Dockyard on way out?

I remember the days, I remember them well

Something to grandchildren someday I’ll tell

When St. John’s had sidewalks that just disappeared

For a couple of months, but they’ll say it was weird.

I’ll tell them the white stuff fell out of the sky

Covered the sidewalks and streets, piled up high

But ostrich like Council had head in the sand,

Such pressures that Mayor had donned a head band.

I’ll tell them that nature had tartly replied,

Being taken for granted one thing she defied,

So she piled on the snow hiding sidewalks from view

And but for the plows would have hid the streets too.

She drummed up a crisis and buried the place

Forcing the City the problem to face

And such was the task when the snowstorms had cleared

The streets were still there, the sidewalks disappeared.

Daily News Headline: (“Trying hammer out settlement”: Moores) Last-ditch talks enter fourth day

Our athletes did much credit bring

While out west as they did their thing

Canada Winter Games my son

All kinds of honors for them won.

Seven medals, yes, but more

Their excellent esprit de corps

And charm and personality

Was evident in high degree

The Summer Games of two years hence

Were boosted by participants

To them, their coaches, all concerned

Our heartiest congrats you’ve earned.

Daily News Headline: CABINET SPLIT ON DOBBIN DEAL (Marshall is out as House leader)

It’s not a game of cowboys and we’ve got to be impartial

Old Dobbin caused an awful stir which quite upset the Marshall

So he resigned his post and from the cabinet unhitched

His comments evidence that he no longer is bewitched.

A very Tender issue brought the wily Marshall’s censure

His post will go to someone else he will be a backbencher

The lawman so far keeping step decided to break stride

The same day he was made Queen’s Counsel on it did decide.

Conjecture now is rampant as to its ramification

Guarded comments followed his, they spoke with hesitation

There may be client conflict but that’s merely an assumption

The Marshall’s latest hitching post has a sign on it - Gumption.

Daily News Headline: Investigate Dobbin deal says Roberts

The City Council’s giving up the buses

Franchise no doubt shortly will invite

For anyone who’s ready to take over

The giving of a service day and night.

It started with curtailment of the service

Then cutting out of transfers followed next

The latest news of fares being jacked up sharply

Has patrons not only perplexed, but vexed.

Imagine fifteen cents the fare for children

A quarter for the weekend. Why the change?

Forty cents for adults using buses

The whole design to price fares out of range.

They’re counting on complacency of people

We yack a bit, and gripe a day or two

I’ll start the rumor, going out of business

Time could prove my thoughts on buses true.

Daily News Headline: (No-fault insurance plan:) Premiums will drop for younger drivers

A week of anxious moments, doubts and jitters

A week in which some had to improvise

A week of competition, and of challenge

A week that proves me adage of time flies.

A week of happy, youthful effervescence

A week of, music diversified

A week when winner’s joy showed as they cried.

A week of standards high the like unequalled

In adjudication, talent, and detail

Of organized programming, by Kiwanis

Whose efforts citizens can proudly hail.

Daily News Headline: (Management, leadership lacking) Unions fear for drydock’s future

Comment: I don't know why the second verse is only three lines.

February’s gone, a twenty-eighter

Already we are three days into March

So it’s another February by numbers

But winter’s going limp, it lost its starch.

In all the rush I overlooked a birthday

February eighteen was the date

This column for five years you have been reading

But many more we can’t anticipate.

This is a month to which we all looked forward

A lot of pepper-uppers it will bring

Like disappearing snow, and lighter clothing

Longer days, and Eastertime and Spring.

Daily News Headline: (“It’s those damn (fishermen’s) editorials ...”) Gov’t cuts off advertising to Daily News (Moores denies it’s so)

February’s gone, a twenty-eighter

Already we are three days into March

So it’s another February by numbers

But winter’s going limp, it lost its starch.

In all the rush I overlooked a birthday

February eighteen was the date

This column for five years you have been reading

But many more we can’t anticipate.

This is a month to which we all looked forward

A lot of pepper-uppers it will bring

Like disappearing snow, and lighter clothing

Longer days, and Eastertime and Spring.

Daily News Headline: (“It’s those damn (fishermen’s) editorials ...”) Gov’t cuts off advertising to Daily News (Moores denies it’s so)

A great big hand

For Miss Teen Newfoundland

St. Phillip’s KAREN CLARKE, while on TV

A charm displayed

That earns an accolade

A quite delightful personality.

High on the list

As semi-finalist

Some felt she should be even higher still

With confidence

She gave us her comments

And obviously found it all a thrill

We’re very proud

She stood out in the crowd

A good impression totally she made

May what’s in store

For her be even more

As she through life goes daily on parade.

Daily News Headline: Tory trio support Opposition demands

That altruistic man of radio

Who morning, noon and night we seem to hear

By Jaycees was awarded Tuesday evening

A title rare - Citizen of the Year.

Wallace Stanley Millman, a do-gooder

Saved not only lives of which we know

But through a job of psyching up the public

Helped many reach where they set out to go.

His words of caution, with constructive phrasing

Have unknown thousand times reflection caused

As motorists were checked on driving habits

Still with us, as they heard his words and paused.

To Mr. Millman our congratulations

The service clubs rate excellent in choice

We thank him for his ardent dedication

And wish him well as we with him rejoice.

Daily News Headline: Auditor-general raps projects without tender

A week each year is set aside

That we with our eyes open wide

May see what education means

And what goes on behind the scenes.

College or university

High school or elementary

The students have to keep in stride

With programs quite diversified.

The nucleus to make it tick

Is readin’ ‘ritin’ ‘rithmetic

A good foundation must be laid

Or education’s a charade.

Daily News Headline: ($5,000 gov’t grant) Poverty funds inquiry

High time of course the Council called the shot

But rather late in getting off the pot

The weather favours snow removal now

Where was the law when up to waist we’d plow.

But there is raised a point so often made

With laws enforced our snow costs could be paid

The means are there the monies to provide

But Council on enforcement must decide.

It’s not enough just meters fetching dough

There’s double parking everywhere we go

U-turns are made, quite varied are the ways

For Council to ensure the city pays.

Daily News Headline: Nurse’s body found in snow

There was a time when people stopped and chatted

And pleasantries exchanged when they would shop

A day that’s gone because of many pressures

And no one even has the time to stop.

If they do it’s just a time for griping

I’m very much as guilty as the next

But buying groceries is so frustrating

None can help but wind up being vexed.

A rip-off is a far too mild description

We are being used abused, the markups hurt

The very basic foods each week priced higher

Supermarkets treat us like the dirt.

Milk and cheese and jams and peanut butter

Basics seem to increase with demand

It’s time to stop just taking things for granted

Before too late, it’s almost out of hand.

Daily News Headline: (Twelve applicants so far) Cable TV dogfight ahead

A follow up of yesterday, the price hike is terrific

To prove that we’re being taken I will now be quite specific

Five weeks ago raspberry jam, a forty eight ounce size

$2.29 was fetching, and then much to my surprise

$2.95 last week was hitting in its upward climb

On Saturday more hikes as ‘twas $3.35 this time.

Flour is jacked up 20 cents and yeast cakes gone up nine.

Good Luck sneaked up 3 more cents, it’s nothing short of crime

Milk in tins is priced at 34 and 36.

And have you noticed lately what you’re paying for fish sticks.

Crisco oil up 16 cents, tissues on the rise

A bottle of detergent is a 14 cent surprise

Tomorrow words on service, or the lack of it, more true

There has to be reaction, and it has to come from you.

Daily News Headline: (Faced with expulsion: Roberts) Moores denies MHAs threatened

Are supermarkets getting slack on service?

You bet they are, we’ve noticed bit by bit

Variety’s reduced, shelves not replenished

If you want something and must ask for it

You first must find a clerk, they’re getting scarcer

Then squeeze through crowded aisles, only to find

The checkouts are in staggered operation

At open ones people with carts are lined

Where cashiers octopus-like grab the items

Then hastily punch figures on machines

That click so fast some errors go unnoticed

But sometimes it requires your making scenes

To see that specials advertised so fully

Are not punched in as regular on shelf

The cashier in her rush can overlook it

The onus is placed back upon yourself

So take your time and check the figures with her

If you’ve a gripe, shout “Manager, ahoy”

And while you’re thrashing out whate’er annoys you

Have him provide the cashier with a boy

For she is also very much expected

To bag your groceries, put them on carts

The customer is right, is out the window

You’re just supposed to take it in good parts

But that’s a way of getting you to do it

You see it don’t you, just give it a whirl

One customer will not delay the others

And all will have compassion on the girl

It’s quite a snow job from the Supermarkets

Time to smarten up you naïve goofs

Do we have to get you mad to get the message

Or do you deserve the label stupid Newfs.

Daily News Headline: ELECTION BUDGET? (“Could be” Moores says) (A billion to spend - with no tax rise (Except for mining companies))

Years ago at Lenten time

            A mission would be preached

For people of the R.C. faith

            In hope all would be reached

With message of salvation

            And the goodness of the Lord

And literally thousands went

            To church of own accord.

When women’s mission time arrived

            Tough weather would be fair

A storm was almost guaranteed

            Like answer to a prayer

The winter weather problems now

            In essence are the same

And this being Women’s Year we found

            A place to lay the blame.

Daily News Headline: (Too “remote” from city council) TAKE OVER POLICE?

Tis Paddy’s Day, ‘tis time again

To salute all the Irishmen

In whose traditions we are steeped

Since they across Atlantic leaped

Of old, today, their tempers flare

But still they are devil-may-care

With music bright and full of life

A far cry from their present strife

Their songs passed down through years we sing

Much happiness they always bring

There’s a tradition too with plays

Still carried on by Ms. Kay Hayes

Providing each St. Patrick’s night

A play that’s always a delight

This year “Ace High” the one she chose

A record crowd every year goes

Throughout the Province on this date

Not only Irish celebrate

But everyone who goes along

With dance, laughs, music, fun and song.

Daily News Headline: POLICE GRAB DIRTY BOOKS

All things being even

When you chat with Neary (Stephen)

One favourable point has much appeal

I’ll not hesitate to note here

That for Mr. Average-voter

He is always looking for a better deal.

With impulsiveness afflicted

He has found himself evicted

For some hasty words directed at the chair

For his verbal misadventure

He was given heavy censure

A five day break to help them clear the air.

Daily News Headline: CN VESSELS GET REPAIRS IN N.S.

O noble press, of thee I must enquire

What hast thou done to raise Ank Murphy’s ire

I seeth not as freelance daily scribe

What prompteth such uncalled for diatribe

I hath not found coertcon in my time

Of giving my opinions out in rhyme

Nor twisting of the arm by Callahan

Or Thoms, or any gentleman

No fingers pointed ever yet at me

To favor Liberal over P.C.

No words at all to prejudice my view

My writings are as I elect to do

No elements of threat, and no suspense

Reliance well placed in my common sense

O noble press, our freedom’s champion

On your behalf defensive robes I don

That politicians in no way suppress

The freedom of the media, the press

The “yes man” element of Murphy’s speech

Would prompt us to quite earnestly beseech

His search of soul to find in two years span

His reasons for deserting common man

Apparently, for he appeared sincere

When promising reduction of the beer

But quite reversed the circumstances prove

Integrity-wise them it would behoove

Sir Anthony to raise objections strong

Instead of that he merely went along.

Forgiveable? Perhaps, one loses fire

When waiting for the moment to retire

But stifle not opinion we express

Strong my belief in freedom of the press.

Daily News Headline: (Will it be enough?) $97 million in salaries for teachers

The City Council muffed it in the wake of last big storm

When Transportation system was in swing

The service they provided when restrictions were applied

Proved good service could well have been their thing.

A special drive could make very attractive

The service of the buses would have paid

But some unthinking people got their economics mixed

And subsequently biggest boo boo made.

No better chance had they with captive riders

To give good service as the prices were

Instead up went the fares for faithful patrons

Which caused indeed a quite unhealthy stir.

Fifteen cents for children, and on weekends

A quarter, irrespective of the age

Forty cents for adults was a bomber,

Throwing many people in a rage.

Whether City Council or Commission

People have been shafted one time more

But everyone knows there are fewer people

At present time as opposed to before.

Backs are up about the jacked-up fares

Mistakes are made, corrections can be too

Patrons warrant more consideration

The whole thing needs a real in depth review.

Daily News Headline: They’re over $13,000

The Roman Catholic Basilica

sensing its impending animation

in the brightness of a mid-March mid-afternoon

joyfully proclaimed its pride,

its bells summoning well wishers

to share its jubilation.

Its dormant interior gently awakened

to the cushioned steps of a perfectionist sacristan,

heard the whisperings of an arriving choir,

the last minute ushering details of

impeccably dressed Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus,

the rustle of priests vestments,

the guarded chatter of anxious altar boys,

the crescendo of a select congregation

totally representative of the entire community

as they took their respective places

with a chorus of comments on its distinctive ornateness.

Complete was its animation

when resounding music and voices

heralded the processional arrival

of its beloved Archbishop,

Patrick James Skinner.

Piety, humility, and integrity

hovered ‘round him as he

invited blessings on all who would share

the nucleus of his faith – the Mass.

Readings, homily, laity greetings,

sincerely and articulately delivered

were in keeping with the dignity

of the service and its purpose.

Prayer response was stirring,

singing enthusiastic.

The Basilica added its personal touch

as a chorus of sparrows chirping softly in its rafters

increased their volume

with each congregational outburst.

God’s little creatures shared the day;

a baby’s cry stood out, perhaps significantly,

as an ecclesiastical father, and his people.

St. Patrick’s Day, appropriately special for

the quarter century episcopal milestone of

Patrick James Skinner, C.J.M., D.D.,

Archbishop of St. John’s.

Daily News Headline: Province would finance Shea Heights annexation

A growing staff

Is never quite a laugh

Extra bodies spell out extra dough

Our government

Has set a precedent

Of personal assistants, job of snow.

But let’s define

The overall design

And glad am I to see another job

Yet seems to me

Some aristocracy

Is evident, and we don’t need snobs.

Why say I so

To me it’s quite a blow

That emphasis is ever being misplaced

And if you like

The trawlermen at strike

Know where it’s needed from the problems faced.

Daily News Headline: (Rushoon, P.B.) Evacuate houses, ice threat passes

I’m told

That Spring is four days old

Too young as yet for to expect too much

The snow

Is not prepared to go

As winter hates to lose its special touch.

It’s Spring

And time to do our thing

But it needs some assistance from above

For how

Can anyone avow

A young man’s fancy now will turn to love

Oh well

I s’p’ose that time will tell

Spring has nearly three months yet to go

My rhyme

Somewhere around that time

Will no doubt say, remember all that snow.

Daily News Headline: NO! (The likely reply to Police call for arms)

Thumbing in the streets is quite a nuisance

An example I will cite, one Sunday night

A young man had a lively conversation

With someone who had stopped for a red light.

Being next him I knew the story

But like a horse that’s straining at the bit

The motorist behind us was impatient

And when the light turned green our car he hit.

Anticipating we would move he did it

But thumbing friend the leading car delayed

Over four hundred dollars worth of damage

An accident a pedestrian had made.

The driver of the car in which we travelled

Is being compensated and the like

The thumber, unaware he caused the damage

Still roams the streets, but that’s no place to hike.

Daily News Headline: Faisal’s death shocks the world: What now for Mid East?

A highlight day in Holy Week

When through the ages Christ did speak

In parables, ere He was dead

He took a simple loaf of bread

And shared with His Apostles, as His life

This is my body, His comment

A statement without precedent

Some wine to blood He chose to change

To those at table rather strange

But in it strength to bear up under strife.

The day to follow would decide

Christ would in fact be crucified

By those he loves, his own mankind

Who were to all his greatness blind

But through the centuries this human crime

In every land would be made known

And we would know that God had shown

He was a super-being of love

Whose home was in a heaven above

A mystery that stands the test of time.

Daily News Headline: Water shortage stops development

Rejoice! Hallelujah! And great the elation

A victory time, one of much jubilation

That death in the end is by Jesus defied

As his Resurrection as hope is our guide

Tomorrow is special, though life for us gave

Christ’s resurrection transcended the grave

The message beyond all our reasoning scope

By its very mystery increases hope

The new life of Spring can symbolically show

Beyond death we can in eternity grow

Easter is brighter times, life is renewed

With much higher spirits are people imbued

Great is its message, it sharpens your view

May Easter bring happiness some way to you.

Daily News Headline: Union recognition issue extends walkout: Bitter  disappointment

The Southside road depicted life in contrast

Good Friday morning, cars of every sort

Older folks and children, walking, running

The ship “Arctic Endeavour” was in port.

From plushy cars, o’er concrete walks and pavement

They rushed to mucky wharf and sloppy ship

And pushed through growing crowds for season specials

Carcass, or parts of the seal that flip.

“Come on boys, over here and get your carcass

Two or three dollars,” we heard sealers shout

From tubs or barrels on the decks they pluck ‘em

And when the deal was made they’d fire ‘em out.

From snow and oily mixture they’d retrieve them

And then what seemed to me appropriate

In boxes, pails and garbage bags they put them

Yet the contents many gourmets satiate.

Daily News Headline: Thirty minutes for $10: Anyone could see a lawyer, cheap

The rip off continues

In very bold face

Last weekend we witnessed

The Easter egg case.

Ridiculous prices

For chocolate shell

In some fancy package

Designed for to sell.

My conscience and wallet

Could see through the plot

And such Easter items

We chose to boycott

If we as consumers

Pressures will exert

Unsold stock in season

Will certainly hurt.

Daily News Headline: METROBUS MYSTERY: Fare changes in or out?

Bikes are more plentiful day after day

As kids get the urge to go driving away

To visit their friends at a distance afar

And shake up the driver of each motor car.

Nothing deliberate, it’s a delight

Youngsters should not be denied such a right

But warned should they be, with their bikes to take care

And motorists this time of year should beware.

Daily News Headline: Major crisis in education (Boards broke) (Dropouts high) (Teacher shortage)

Like rockets soaring through the skies

Basic foods still on the rise

There’s no one in a watchdog role

The whole thing is out of control.

A price control board need we now

To help put on the brakes somehow

If there is one we’d like to know

Was it, too, buried under snow.

If there’s not then ripe the time

To halt the ever upward climb

Of things essential, food and such

Surely that’s not asking much.

Daily News Headline: Dot wants $150 million compensation: Water rates up?

A lot of junk in banks of snow

We did throughout the winter throw

Arrival of spring has revealed

What we so cleverly concealed.

If each of us with civic pride

Were caught in flow of clean up tide

More quickly would the City be

A cleaner place for you and me.

It takes a little extra thought

To make the place look as it ought

With good example you can teach

And careless ones and children reach.

Daily News Headline: Will appeal electricity rate hike

Which one’s wrong, and which is right

Celsius or Fahrenheit

You could say you have it made

If you remember Centigrade

Perhaps it may come back to you.

In the year one seven four two

A Swede named Anders Celsius

Revealed a brand new scale to us

Zero, freezing point began

Then up to one hundred ran

For boiling, which would simple seem

It took time to accept his dream

But sense it makes to do it right.

We must forget the Fahrenheit

And get ourselves fully immersed

Like any language we’ve rehearsed

We have to think, yes, each of us

In one way only, Celsius.

Daily News Headline: TONIGHT MAY BE THE NIGHT: Joey: yes… or no?

We’re not sure how it came about

The whole thing was confused

The patronage of children

Was on Metrobus abused.

It’s still a senseless item though

With weekend rates so high

A student’s still a student

And the question still is: why?

The everpaying parent digs

And weekends even more

This attitude toward citizens

We very much deplore.

They jacked up fares, the transfers went

But transfers will be back

Though this time you will pay for them

The whole thing’s out of whack.

Daily News Headline: City cops want Mounties’ pay

A CN bus ride I enjoyed

A mere three nights ago

Though we were late it mattered not

The ride was very slow.

From Grand Falls to St. John’s we found

In spots along the way

The fog was really blanket thick

At night as well as day.

There wasn’t any music played

Which wasn’t any loss

For substituting was a voice

“Where are you at now Ross?”

Other names and comments came

With intercom turned high

Small talk, quips, a local joke

Or “Goin’ up hill now, b’y.”

At first it seemed a bit offbeat

Perhaps ‘twas a mistake

Eventually one fellow said

“Got to keep you awake.”

That’s what ‘twas really all about

Formalities aside

The free-style chatter that we heard

Ensured a safer ride

The danger points they singled out

Like cars parked or broke down

Long hours but noticed time flew by

And not a trace of frown.

Daily News Headline: (U.S. base agreement expires in July) FEARS FOR 800 JOBS

Muggings, assaults,

And now organized theft

Criminally

There is not too much left

More is in store

I’m prepared to opine

Until we increase

The jail sentence or fine.

Protection we need

From the elements rough

Dispensers of justice

Will have to get tough

Too much pussyfooting

And now is the time

To stop ere it snowballs

The organized crime.

Daily News Headline: HIGHER OIL PRICES?

Notice the electors list on hydro poles displayed

Which means that any moment now announcement could be made

There will be an election, but one thing I do foresee

The voters will approach the booth this time differently.

Instead of voting Liberal, P.C., or N.D.P.

A twist I am predicting, we can only wait and see

The party will not matter when it comes to the “who shall”

This time there will be voting for the individual.

Some may be disillusioned with the party now in power

Some see no alternative up the voting hour

And stay away in numbers, but for those who vote I see

A person vote, not party, based on one’s integrity.

Daily News Headline: Frank to Peter: You help our hydro, we’ll back your oil

I don’t go along at all

With fencing in of City Hall

As being against vandals a solution

Rather, catch them in the act

Forget diplomacy and tact

And jail them till they earn their absolution.

Granted Mayor Dorothy

May have said facetiously

That such a step she’d take, think of it please

Fencing places, locking doors

Arming workers in the stores

The cure would be much worse than the disease.

A city government should be

Able with some authority

To see that citizens protected are

Law enforcement is the thing

They must to the city bring

Action now before it goes too far.

Daily News Headline: (Fish market reference angers Mercer) Dot abusing her office?

Let’s forget the daily gripes, the goings on in court

Turn your thoughts to brighter things, like holidays and sport

Relief for the vacation is a business now at hand

Do you prefer to go away, or stay in Newfoundland.

You need a break, no doubt at all, this much is due to you

To get away for change of scene, your vigor to renew

It doesn’t mean to sunny south, for here in Newfoundland

All you need in variety is readily at hand.

The people in communities scattered about the coast

Will very warmly welcome you, you’ll find they are the most

The Bonne Bay scene, the Humberview, Placentia, up the shore

Are pleasant thoughts these troubled times, and you’ll go back for more.

Daily News Headline: POLICE HQ ROBBED OF GUNS… DRUGS?

Two seagulls, on Atlantic Place

Decided to alight

Said one: “I feel important

With these droppings from a height.”

His friend said: “When you’re in the air

You’re even higher still.”

“But that I can do anywhere

This is a greater thrill.”

“The name alone importance gives

And when it is complete

Just think of all the people who

I’ll have beneath my feet.”

“That depends upon the storeys,

And the stories that they tell

Seems to me there’s indecision

About housing a hotel.”

“That still leaves me up in the air

Hey, see that sign marked Stop

I think I’ll just fly over it

Time for another drop.”

Daily News Headline: Montreal strike means 100 local layoffs?

Why scrimp and save and dollars squeeze

When there is one job that’s a breeze

The pay is good, the gravy’s great

Anyone can participate.

Your own virtues you first extol

To get a politician’s role

Not much control on what you do

So much of it hidden from view.

While sitting in the People’s House

Some actions don’t become a souse

Prestige once had is slipping fast

Fault of the times, or of the cast?

A politician seems to me

Has no accountability

Like dummy be, or shout all day

He’s still assured a good day’s pay.

Daily News Headline: BELBIN HANDED LIFE IN PRISON

The patron saint of England is honoured on this day

At least the celebration part, the public holiday

The feast day is on Wednesday, April 23,

For a Christian who was martyred in 303 A.D.

Legend has its story how St. George had done his thing

He had come to the rescue of the daughter of the King

He slew the demon dragon and affected history

Converting people at the time to Christianity

This noble man of England in time received his due

When the Council of Oxford in the year 1222

Declared national festival in reverence sincere

That through the years and through the lands his name we might revere.

Daily News Headline: IGA: Close hospital beds, nursing stations

When people read between the lines

They’re looking for election signs

But there will be shining of brass

Before the next one comes to pass.

By brass I mean the cabinet

Bob wells has not been placed there yet

Carter and Marshall got the squeeze

Three whom government must appease.

Not mavericks in truest sense

They’ll settle for some recompense

These three names watch and very soon

The government will call the tune.

These come across to you and me

As men of such integrity,

The government can ill afford

To let such talent go ignored.

Daily News Headline: ERCO plant again: Long Hr. being slowly poisoned?

You need a pocketful of change

To even walk the shortest range

The hands are always out on Water Street

You’ll find some rough, others polite

“Hey buddy, have you got a light?”

And when you’re hooked they make the deal complete.

“Got a quarter you can spare?”

Says he, looking the worse for wear

And down the street his ever-drinking chum

The signal gets that you’re a touch

Or else that you’re a such and such

And either way he waits for you to come.

The younger ones irk me the most

As they are taking up their post

Outside the liquor stores, or down the street

They are a more aggressive breed

And their appeals we should not heed

Far better they stood on their own two feet.

Daily News Headline: Slim chance of agreement: Time running out at Geneva

Bingo is a major part of life in Newfoundland

Some even take their cards along and find time for a hand

Private clubs use it a lot, a money raising fund

And anyone who cannot play must certainly be stunned.

The public games are greatest fun, the characters emerge

The regulars who go out for a ticket buying splurge

The snacking type, the quiet ones, the comical, the loud

It takes all shapes and sizes to make up a bingo crowd.

The same old numbers out all night you hear some people shout

A bingo is called back - G-46, “No it’s not out”

Calling then resumes, and that’s the first on the list

Bingo has its fascination which some people can’t resist.

Daily News Headline: (More help for fisheries) Is $50 million enough?

A charter night for Knights Saturday evening

To serve the area around Mount Pearl

The Father John B. Kent Council is started

In parish of Mary Queen of the World.

Deputy Grand Knight is Larry Barron

They also have the best Grand Knight of all

His name is Stephen Best, a knight well seasoned

Who’ll see 6638 gets on the ball.

The group will be one hundred, roundly figured

And that input of men from K. of C.

Will be a Christian influence worth noting

And welcomed by any community.

In council work, in other undertakings

We wish them well and do congratulate

Those who tomorrow night receive their charter

Good luck to new council 6638.

Daily News Headline: (Policemen will tell Allmand) No more coddling prisoners (Referendum on capital punishment)

It’s good to be alive today

Another week begun

An extra daylight hour is ours

Bright days ahead, more sun.

If you found April showers cold

As we all did I s’pose

It’s good to know in two days time

The month draws to a close.

Should you have plans for fishing on

The twenty-fourth of May

Before you know it, it will be

Time to get under way.

It’s good to be alive today

To look ahead and find

The brighter days are coming up

The dark ones left behind.

Daily News Headline: ALLAN CUP: BARRIE GOING HOME?

Immunity of House, I have not with me, as Steve Neary

But as a citizen I have a challenge I must make

The Minister of Justice is a gutless man in office

On criminals and vandals only ostrich role will take

The pussyfooting attitude is tantamount to saying

Breakdown of society is something we condone

But a Minister of Justice should be strong in his conviction

And fight the criminal increase, even if done alone.

Statistics can be juggled to one’s own interpretation

Note Mr. Hickman says “reported” cases have declined

“Reported” is the key word, people fear retaliation

And like him in sand are hiding, is the Minister so blind?

Now about that detailed study, of lowest incarceration

And percentage of probations being high, he has detail

Isn’t it simple logistics that the vandals are increasing

And so numerous are they there’s just no room for them in jail.

On Saturday I called police, relayed an observation

A drugstore windows smashed, I told them where it was, and so

Saw it replaced on Sunday and checked with the druggist, who said

“That’s the sixth since Christmas” – Mr. Hickman you should know.

The Andrews range and any houses recently vacated

Will overnight be set upon, it’s just destructiveness

People driven off the road, bottles hurled from passing cars

Robberies with fences waiting, yet we’re told that crime is less

Vacant schools in summer will be targets for destructiveness

There is apprehension on the park behaviour too

The above reflects concerns of citizens like me who fear

As Minister of Justice Sir, the onus plainly is on you.

Daily News Headline: (Mayor “was ashamed”) Dot apologizes to Barrie mayor

How do you tell a little guy

That hockey shouldn’t be like that

You want him to be a good sport

And not another saucy brat

So take him to a hockey game

Where he might learn how it is played

And what he sees is bloody fights

With some players out cold being laid.

How do you tell a little guy

That this is only fun, a game

When he himself can plainly see

A bloody face, a smack to maim

You might say the opposing team

Began it all with dirty play

But there’s a danger he’d mistake

Intent of what you had to say.

You’ve preached good sport while on the ice

And off as well, a sportsman’s code

But who’d think in one period

The situation would explode

This had to set a precedent

Which will be sorted bye and bye

The whole thing’s so ridiculous

What can you tell a little guy.

Daily News Headlines: 1. SOUTH VIETNAM SURRENDERS 2. Barrie wins tame contest 4-3

Conjecture about Doctor Rowe

Wonder what prompted him to go

No ballyhoo, no fight, no fuss

A quietly resigning Gus

Point strongly made as out he went

There was no motive dissident

It didn’t surprise me at all

Few days ago you will recall

I said some changes would be made

Was this one doctored? Who is to know

Except the brass and Doctor Rowe.

An ill health one will follow next

At least that’s what this scribe projects

And as the situation jells

Watch names like Marshall, Carter, Wells.

Daily News Headline: 200-MILE LIMIT: MAYBE NEXT YEAR

Comment: I don't know why there’s only three lines in the third verse. According to the rhyming scheme, line 2 appears to be missing.

Tonight twelve hundred ladies at 8:30 will convene

To hold convention leading to the choosing of a Queen

All parts of Newfoundland and Labrador they represent

Reviewing how in losing weight the past year they have spent.

“Salute to KOPS” is this year’s theme, means to a high degree

These ladies learned the secret to KEEP OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY is TOPS, so with them it’s a must

To watch that extra poundage on the waistline and the bust.

Tomorrow is their PRD, that’s what the ladies say

And these initials mean Provincial Recognition Day

In other words, we all should know the efforts that they make

To take and keep off extra weight, watch calorie intake.

To all a hearty welcome to our city, and to MUN

Where they’ll be housed; we wish them well, and awful lot of fun

In costumes colourful they’ll be, their banners will they bring

And Arts and Culture will resound as cheerfully they sing.

Daily News Headline: Would Tory MHA really: Bash Roberts?

It’s a shame that this appointment is so suspect

So steeped in controversy from the start

The choice should have precluded politicians

Or one in government who plays a part.

The role of Ombudsman for years impending

Should have been one to warrant much applause

Instead ‘twas Opposition ammunition

To speak of patronage and worthy cause.

It’s most unfortunate for Mr. Peddle

And the position too, to start this way

Misconstrued intentions are, however noble

It comes out as political touche.

Will the Peddle nomination be soft-pedalled

No question of the man’s integrity

To people only ombudsman’s allegiance

One main requirement must be empathy.

Also communication, and perception

Strong convictions, and he’ll have to be

Autonomous, and I’m not being facetioius

When I humbly suggest it could be me.

Daily News Headline: TEACHERS MAY WORK TO RULE

Mr. Moores does not agree with Mr. Hickman

By inference at least it comes across

Hickman says that crime’s no worse than ever

It’s never been so bad, says Frank, his boss.

It’s good to see the Premier concurring

With views expressed by public all along

The Minister of Justice may have problems

As lots do in admitting when they’re wrong.

His dual post may offer him the option

Of leaving Justice, this writer foretells

He’ll stay with Health, and changes in the offing

May see the Justice role passed o’er to Wells.

Daily News Headline: Said he would, and did: PC member punches Roberts: Fists fly in the House

When argument gets at its height

The House goes into action all right

When one gets provoked

Another is poked

We get performance a la fight.

When on personal failings they lean

The one who began it is mean

Attacking by word

Is equally absurd

And it makes for a very bad scene.

Put a cloak on the fellow who spoke

And tie down the bloke with the stroke

We look at it one way

A disgraceful display

It makes the House look like a joke.

Daily News Headline: Handed two-day suspensions: Dunphy, Roberts banished

The exit of Mike Martin was no earth shaking event

But much credit is due him for the time and money spent

He had dedication, one sensed from the very start

And on behalf of Labrador he really did his part.

He showed respect for rules of House, his cause presented well

That he in efforts was sincere, most anyone could tell

Remoteness from his district was a handicap that cost

One would think more contingencies out his way would be tossed.

I applaud Mike Martin for the contribution made

For personal conviction, for performance, not charade

The NLP goes with him, but he has opened the door

For better understanding of the folks in Labrador.

Daily News Headline: Some stations may close: Gasoline price war shaping up

A whispered cheer

A smile serene

A gentle kiss

Can only mean

            A mother

A rock of faith

Sweet charity

A ray of hope

She’ll always be

            A mother

A bosom warm

A roomy heart

Of children’s life

Always a part

            A mother

A fan for life

An unmatched friend

One who stands by you

To the end

            A mother

If daughter be

Or growing son

Remember

There’s not anyone

            Like mother.

Daily News Headline: (Refused cross picket line ... NLC official suspended) Employee’s reinstatement demanded

It’s not an easy task to be

In Newfoundland Constabulary

Or member of R.C.M.P.

Policemen’s lot I envy not

Each time they ask who, when, or what

Themselves they’re putting on the spot.

Derogatory names they get

But safe indeed to make a bet

They’re called on when we’re in a sweat.

Just ordinary people they

Who work darn hard for no big pay

At beck and call both night and day.

Frustrations to them are a must

In legislation they must trust

But lately it’s not all that just.

The law’s becoming toothless, right?

It certainly lost all its bite

Policemen’s jobs become a plight.

In this Canada Police week

It’s time for all of us to speak

On their behalf, and justice seek.

Daily News Headline: (Ottawa should ban commercial salmon fishery, but) They’re afraid of Newfoundland

The weekend coming up will be

An interesting one to see

Excitement of the fishing trip

Has all the anglers in its grip.

But apprehension fills the air

As anglers all a crisis share

If liquor stores are still on strike

What is it going to be like!

They’ll have to lug with them more beer

But enter now another fear

A rumor strong, could it be true

The breweries are striking too.

A rumor, hopefully that’s all

Enough to make a fellow bawl

No booze, no beer? Not even swish

Nothing left to do but fish.

Daily News Headline: New approach to prison: Non-violent would live in community

The wistful look, the breaking smile, the glance above

In time of Spring have been construed as signs of love

Yet other thoughts these symptoms often bring about

The owners the ardent fishermen of trout.

They see beyond the traffic flow, the buildings high

They are transported when they look up in the sky

To streams and gullies where there’s always an invite

To cast a line and wait with patience for a bite.

They smell the newness of the freshened countryside

They hear the birds, the gentle rustle of the trees,

They see the waters glisten in reflected sunshine

They feel the warmth of midday gently brushing breeze.

The placid scene brings new excitement to their senses

Is theirs alone, away from all the noises mod

A close-up look at nature, always so rewarding

A time when man feels even closer to his God.

Daily News Headline: Ford sends in the marines: Captured U.S. vessel still in foreign hands

Election isn’t imminent

We’ll have one in the Fall

But certain changes we foresaw

And if you will recall

We said that to the cabinet

Bob Wells would get the nod

Although at this stage in the game

It is a proper cod.

Still that’s how images are built

The past can quickly fade

People can shut it out at will

By pulling down the shade.

That’s one prediction coming true

And more there are to follow

A government is chocolate-like

It’s solid, or it’s hollow.

Daily News Headline: (Labor strike could) Rip this country apart

Though I am really harmless

I make some people squirm

I am one of life’s lowest forms

A squiggly, wiggly worm.

But this week is confusing

A sort of mystery

My friends are disappearing fast

Oops! Someone’s grabbing me.

“This one is a beauty”

I heard some fellow shout

“With him I betcha that I’ll get

The biggest kind of trout”.

He said I was a beauty

So with him I’ll concur

But someone should inform the guy

Him, I’m – I’m a Her.

Daily News Headline: Breath test condition of licence?

There is a little monkey wrench

In placing someone on the bench

To fill the vacancy, and I predict

A stalling time is needed so

The man who will to judgeship go

Is not quite ready yet, although he’s picked.

To this suggestion I give birth

Keep it in mind for what it’s worth

Mr. Alex Hickman will not run in Fall

In interim he’ll get the nudge

To take his honoured seat as judge

Hence the logic in the judge appointment stall.

Daily News Headline: Joey speaks out: Toll gates illegal without law change

When it comes to darts, the U.N.F. lays claim to fame

United Nail and Foundry are the champions – by name

They’re Baxter Browne, Tom Coady, Gordon Ryan, Bob McLean

“Gentleman” Jim Fillier, Frank “Foss” Furlong, and again.

The veteran Jack Taylor, it’s his “Dream Team” so says he

And proved it at the Legion Club when at Happy Valley

By four to two the series they won, they made her rock

Isn’t that right “me old buddy, me old pal, and me old sock.”

Their lady friends were with them and to add to cheers and wails

Armed themselves with Pepsi cans into which they put nails

Their numbers small, with other noise they had to compensate

For U.N.F. the use of nails was quite appropriate.

“Schnauser” and “Coathanger” would no way with chances flirt

Nor “Rosey Shorts”, nor that guy with the well “moth eaten shirt”

Doubles, triples, tuns they scored, in fact in the last leg

Baxter two 140s convincingly did peg.

Daily News Headline: Control crown corporations, or: People will revolt

The humor in the liquor strike

Is more dry than the gin

But serious the issues are

To students and their kin.

Ridiculous the wages for

Responsibility

For all the cash transactions, and

This rare commodity.

As low men on the totem pole

It doesn’t take a sage

Or any study groups to find

The level of their wage.

Let meaningful discussions come

And powers show their stuff

Heavens knows the Government

In profit makes enough.

It’s revenue I grant you

There rush to their defence

But revenue should not be at

The liquor staffs expense.

Daily News Headline: They’ll need another in ’76: Power rate bid won’t end here

If in the Terra Nova bounds

There’s not much to look forward to

Restrictions on your way of life

A toll charge if you’re coming through.

To get to home or place of work

And through the Park you have to go

Your time just isn’t yours alone

You must allow for traffic flow.

If Federal should call the shot

And Rousseau’s protests unheard go

Then special stickers should be made

To let the local traffic flow.

A brightly coloured sticker should

To daily users be supplied

So they might simply drive on through

Unlike those just out for the ride.

Be adamant, Mr Rousseau

Support you’ll get from quarters all

We’ve got to back you on this one

If anyone is on the ball.

Daily News Headline: (Alberta wants up to $3.50/bbl. Rise) THAT’S 10 CENTS A GAL. ON GAS!!

People watching has its fascination

Whether by design or just by chance

At wedding, club or party, entertainment

Is found in watching couples as they dance.

That bit about the eye of the beholder

To ear of listener also applies

A band a certain piece of music offers

Response of hearers is the big surprise.

Some will barely move, and cuddle closely

Others glide around the floor with ease

Another couple double time their actions

A rubber leg performance watcher sees.

Still another fits in calisthenics

And some there are who have no beat at all

Each who hears varies interpretation

But in his own way really has a ball.

The pace of life is varied with each person

Each has his own idiosyncrasies

Were we all alike life would be boring

Just being ourselves is social expertise.

Daily News Headline: Warning from “flexible” NATO: Soviets stealing a march

Despite the strikes and deficits

(We get the Lion’s share)

The Lions brighten up the news

By bringing us a fair.

Results of months of many plans

Some of which went askew

Have been resolved, and true to form

The Lions have come through.

Attractive booths, good novelties

Some varied games of chance

And yes, even a hypnotist

To put you in a trance.

To entertain as well you’ll hear

Miss Carol Baker sing

The Trade Fair of the Lions Club

A bit of everything.

Daily News Headline: Up go air fares

Twenty full years is a measure of time

More than a lifetime for some,

Today it’s a milestone in marriage for me

But no toast - there’s no whiskey or rum.

A total fulfillment these twenty years brought

A sharing of personal love

Its further extension through blessings received

Six children we’re very proud of.

Time has made inroads emotionally

Extremes both in sorrow and joy

Togetherness helped us the challenges meet

That’s merely a fact, not being coy.

Whatever my personal input may be

In this chosen vocation in life

Fortune indeed has been smiling on me

To have such a wonderful wife.

Daily News Headline: NLC may open one store

Once upon a time…

There were Kings and Queens, other royalty,

and some very rich people, like plantation owners,

who had many, many servants

and many, many slaves.

The slaves rebelled from time to time,

in human frustration,

only to be knocked down again and again,

until they could rise no more.

Then came the twentieth century.

Enlightenment came to mankind

And a new star was born – the middle man.

He made his own way through life,

used all his, and nature’s resources,

and developed a very independent spirit.

Some of his colleagues graduated into

the wealthy sphere,

synonymous with man’s entry into,

and limited working knowledge in, the stratosphere.

This bothered the rich man, but not for long.

He knew he could not revert to the physical slavery,

so he gave middle man all he wanted, and more.

He even encouraged him to buy, and borrow,

and live in a pseudo-luxury beyond his means.

And middle man did all these things,

at the same time through taxes,

subsidizing the lazy members of his group

who dropped out and became society’s parasites.

And middle man again fell into slavery,

Financial and mental.

History will some day record this terrible abuse

of human resources, and writers will begin with,

Once upon a time…

Daily News Headline: Suicide ends school rampage… 3 shot dead, 14 wounded: He was “fed up with life”

Sports Days are coming up again

A signal that the school year ends

Drills and marches, sports events

Keen competition among friends.

The dads and moms in numbers come

To patronize respective schools

And watch their little tykes perform

Obeying some performance rules.

The many students taking part

Some form of discipline must know

They have to practice day by day

To put on any kind of show.

Support from parents they invite

To watch them all as they perform

To show despite the weather cool

The feeling for their work is warm.

Daily News Headline: Hayward handed 4 years

Care at wharfside

Care in boats

Always wearing

Safety floats.

No skylarking

Fooling ‘round

Not worth a risk

Of being drowned.

Caution kids

But adults too

Note safety rules

Apply to you

Don’t overload

Unless you're daft

With folks and horsepower

Pleasure craft

May warm winds blow

Upon your cheek

Keep in mind

Water Safety Week.

Daily News Headline: (Breweries picketed) Next: Pubs with no beer? (Brewers respect NLC picket lines)

Employees of the N.L.C.

Another course about to steer

Restrictions on their liquor sales

May very soon apply to beer.

Some throats will soon be desert-like

Dry, and parched, and gasps we’ll hear

“The liquor I could do without

But let me have my drop of beer.”

The wheels are turning slower now

And very soon to stop will grind

The pubs and clubs the pinch will feel

With no booze and no beer combined.

For those who favor temperance

It is a blessing in disguise

While those who like the drop of stuff

Console each other between sighs.

Daily News Headline: Brewery pickets come down

The clenched hand with the upraised thumb

Waiting for motorists to come

The hitch-hiker identifies

But most of them are not too wise.

In fact a nuisance some become

Not just by putting out the thumb

But driving hazards they create

As in the street they hitch and wait.

Thumbing from sidewalks is okay

But stepping out in traffic’s way

Should be controlled by our Police

And those involved obliged to cease.

Hitch-hikers can on a highway too

Throw traffic patterns all askew

Well back from pavement they should be

Attention please R.C.M.P.

Daily News Headline: School boards refuse endorse agreement: Teachers may walk out

The things that some will do for rum

Will bring to surface all the scum

How underhanded people are

To have the booze placed in a bar.

A little rumour filters through

A date when settlement is due

The 20th of June could be

When liquor strike writes its finis.

By then hospital workers will

Be making tracks up to the Hill

An interesting thought no doubt

Just watch and see how it works out.

Daily News Headline: NTA, school boards hammer out agreement: Education clash averted!

On language now a little levity

As school year quickly draws to its finis

If t-o-u-g-h is pronounced tuff

What say you about speaking off the cough.

Our sense of feeling we describe as touch

Would one who’s stooped be known as in a crouch

D-o-u-g-h we know as doe

If oars are in a boat do you then rough.

Salads usually are in a bowl

In auction often one goes in the howl

If moisture in the air is known as dew

Would you be prepared to that lawyers sew.

Daily News Headline: (Possible misuse of funds) Burin trade school probe

Robert Wells’ appointment to the cabinet must be

Unlike any other for its popularity

He has earned a high respect, both in the House and out

The question was why sooner this step wasn’t brought about.

Ideal is the timing putting Wells in cabinet

Twentieth of June hospital workers, don’t forget,

Will give their ultimatum, and the Government must be

Very pleased to have a man of Wells integrity.

The choice is late, but rather good, in giving Bob the call

A big asset for Government election time next fall

The Robert Wells charisma will its own influence be

On Cabinet, on Government, on those who vote P.C.

Daily News Headline: Mixed reaction to federal stand: Closing St. John’s: Is it the answer?

John Crosbie’s public utterance of late

Condemns all workers very openly

Restricting them in bids for higher wage

Is out of touch with all reality.

Is Crosbie, as the P.C.s 21C

As blind as that, so really out of touch

The struggle of the worker nothing means

To one, since birth, who always had so much.

The onus for control falls back on John

The worker has to get a living wage

Denying him the right and setting limits

Is nothing short, John C., of an outrage.

For one so high in rank as Mr. C.

Controls are his to make in Government

Control the escalating cost of food

Control the price of homes, the cost of rent.

Control the rip-offs evident each day

So workers can something for money see

Put the onus on the rightful shoulders

We bounce the ball back to you Mr. C.

Daily News Headline: (B.C. prison drama) Hostages threatened with death

Christian people everywhere

With United Church now share

Joy in this their Golden Jubilee

For fifty years it has combined

Body, spirit, soul and mind

God’s word to spread in the community.

In permissive age like this

There is need for emphasis

On Christian living, it should get the nod

United Church’s jubilee

Perhaps may instrumentally

Bring straying people back again to God.

Daily News Headline: (Prison drama continues) BARGAIN IS FOR LIVES

The struggle is on as the bulbs and the buds

Attempt to show some signs of life

But weather inclement, especially snow

Has caused mother nature some strife.

With so many people in Province on strike

The elements joined in it too

Sunshine and flowers and trees into leaf

Were doing their best to get through.

Then Winter protested, he’d been here so long

And Monday with vengeance he struck

He made an impression it’s hard to ignore

But we’re on Summer’s side, so good luck.

Daily News Headline: Striking liquor store employees react: Latest Offer: “Another insult”

Excitement isn’t quite the same

As we draw nigh to Father’s Day

With Mothers it’s more special in

A sentimental kind of way.

But Fathers can’t be overlooked

Responsibilities have they

From Diaper days until you’re grown

Their hearts are with you all the way.

They may not manifest their love

But always you will find it there

This Father’s Day, remember Dad

And warm his heart to know you care.

Daily News Headline: (Harris report recommends) Government takeover of schools

I’ve travelled far along the road of life,

at least as years to me are relative,

and suddenly I am here.

But where is here?

A turning point? the road ahead?

the detour? the right road?

the left road? the bridge? the walkway?

It’s all so confusing.

And yet I’ve gone this far

Not noticing the gentle nudges of guidance

that kept me pointed in the right direction

to reach a goal, my goal,

and I didn’t even notice.

The road beyond is mine.

I think I know the way.

I think I know what I want to be,

but the nudges will be fewer,

the detours more inviting.

I stand alone in a moment of time,

reflective, contemplative, dubious even,

but I’ll find the way.

I do know I can always look back

over life’s journey,

and if I peer deeply enough

into the background

I will find the strength.

I will find the strength, faith,

confidence, perception and love I need

to help me discern the road to success.

I am a Graduate.

Daily News Headline: (Except by special permit) Forestry travel banned

School is out, the holidays

A big event in many ways

For kids it’s sleeping in, or fun

Or playing games out in the sun

It’s hiking time, and time to fish

Perhaps to get your favourite wish

To have a bike, or take a trip

Or swim, or swing or hopscotch play

So much to fit into each day

For adults it’s a traffic change

Their driving patterns rearrange

The traffic flow will ease a bit

But there’s another side to it

More caution needed every day

As kids in all neighbourhoods play

They must take care what they’re about

Remembering that school is out.

Daily News Headline: (New transport policy) Consumers will pay plenty more

They talked about the current strikes

And then piped up one chap

“The plumbers are on strike you know

And they’re not doin’ a tap”.

“They’re sewer about their present wage

And walking out en masse

They knuckle down, fight to a tee

With management top brass.”

“’Twill be a drain on some unless

It’s over in a rush

Because with money they now get

They’re used to being flush.”

Daily News Headline: More men rushed to fire lines

The licensing of bicycles

Some will accept with cheers

Especially the parents who

Find boys and girls in tears.

“Someone stole my bike”, they cry

“And it was locked,” they add

Whether a gift, or they saved up

It makes them hopping mad.

Description to police they give

The colour, size and make

But what kid from his bicycle

Serial numbers take.

The licensing at least will be

Deterrent of a kind

And surely make it easier

A stolen bike to find.

Daily News Headline: USAF leaving or not?: Storm brews over Goose Bay

The streets are not safe for the children to play

So on safety programs we embark

But worse than that children are no longer free

To have fun in our own Bowring Park.

Mothers can’t even with babies relax

They might run in the path of a car

Ridiculous, asinine, foolish, absurd,

It shouldn’t be let go this far.

Ban all the cars from the Park. Ban them now

Let signs be placed to this effect

This must be done and by Council enforced

Or Bowring Park soon will be wrecked.

How can one relax with cars whizzing on by

And motor bikes joining the din

The driving of vehicles through Bowring Park

Is not too much short of a sin.

Ban all the cars in the Park. Ban them now,

This is my summertime theme

People need places from traffic remote

To relax, be in love, or just dream.

Daily News Headline: Mt. Pearl’s in trouble too

I hate the summertime, always feel sad

In Fall, Spring, and Winter I’m awfully glad

Come June I’m deserted, they all disappear

The children I welcomed so warmly all year.

Each of my colleagues is quick to agree

Though different in setting, personality,

But our needs are the same, and it’s people we love

Why leave us? Just what are people thinking of.

We schools have a problem of that there’s no doubt

But it isn’t our fault when the children walk out

We miss all the shouting and laughter and noise

Of the pert little girls and the mischievous boys.

We’d like to be used all year round if we could

We have playgrounds and gyms and lots more that is good

It would mean summer staff and much money I know

But we’re idle, and youth must have some place to go.

Daily News Headline: (Turner’s tough budget) SOCK...BANG...ZAP!!

The Grade Eleven are I see

Still subject to the C.H.E.

But to what purpose, hard to tell

It’s time to toll the parting bell.

Curriculum must be the key

Not how one rates in C.H.E.

But rather total effort prove

If student qualified to move.

As it now stands, the C.H.E.

Fifty percent only will be

Of total marks for student’s grade

So why continue the charade.

Let schools themselves evaluate

The status of the graduate

Curriculum, efforts should be

Criteria, not C.H.E.

Daily News Headline: OVER 100 DEAD IN N.Y. CRASH

Self service will get the rush

As patrons their own gas will gush

More dollar conscious than before

For less the motorist pays more.

Co-ops and self-service will

Be spots more popular to fill

The gas tanks as the prices soar

As drivers are sore gas costs more.

The Turner budget freshly blooms

But soon will be snuffed out by fumes

Of angry drivers, patience goes

When we are paying through the nose.

Daily News Headline: (Tough fishery board) Now fishermen will know if they’re gipped

Some are already under way

To celebrate Dominion Day

By heading out, trailer in tow

To beat the weekend traffic flow

Where’er you go, whate’er you do

In many ways it’s up to you

To make scenes pleasant and not glum

Keep accidents to minimum

Use safety jackets around boats

Avoid the use of makeshift floats

With caution drive, vigilant be

The safest way, defensively.

May weekend joy and lots of fun

Now be in store for everyone

Relax enroute, relax when there

Use car, plane, boat or bike with care.

Daily News Headline: Magistrate lowers the boom: Yahoos in the parks