July 1977

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“Put your heart into it”

The poster does impolore

A heart with maple leaf inserts

And “mon pays, mes amours.”

A banner that reads “Canada

Let me shake your hand”

Is that for other nations meant?

Do I misunderstand?

Are we that disunited

In shape so sad that we

Must as strangers each other greet

Does that spark unity?

Daily News Headline: Theologies claim: Jesus was a great teacher but… not the Son of God

A great weekend activity

On behalf of C.N.I.B.

Was the Lakeside festivity.

At Quidi Vidi hundreds showed

As novices in dories rowed

And entertainment overflowed.

The Sons of Erin did their thing

Red Islanders got in the swing

The Crooked Stove Pipe had a fling.

Figgy Duff held folks entranced

Spontaneously people danced

As afternoon events advanced.

Well organized were races run

Participants had lots of fun

A splendid job by all was done.

Daily News Headline: Psychiatrist describes dead man’s obsession and: WATER INTOXICATION

A day at the Races on Janeway’s behalf

Is most entertaining, with many a laugh

I asked of a lady, “How does betting go?”

“It’s my first time here, sir, like you, I don’t know.”

The odds on the horses posted in each race

Were puzzling, I looked a gent right in the face

“What do the odds mean|?” “I don’t know”, said he

“But that number seven was lucky for me”

I ventured much further, “Quinella, what’s that?”

A straight faced reply, not an eye did he bat

“That must be the truck that the horses all chase”

He should be embarrassed, but showed not a trace

Concessions seemed busy enough at each stall

The odd gusts of dust didn’t bother at all

As races went on people jumped to their feet

Janeway won each race, though it didn’t compete.

Daily News Headline: Unfairly competing for advertising dollars: CBC should get out, Stirling says (CBC MAINTAINS IT’S NONSENSE)

The money need is very real

For students, hence a big appeal

Employers help does Manpower seek

Naming this “Hire a Student” week.

For some, whatever the amount

Goes into a savings account

While others need the extra dough

In order to stay on the go.

They’ll dress according to your need

Perform for you at a normal speed

They’re anxious, and they’re on the ball

Ready, and willing, give a call.

Daily News Headline: “Incredible”, says deputy mayor: Tourism season flat in city

Though not as many will be found

As in the past, yet they’re around

From mainland or United States

We’ve spotted different license plates.

If slow thus far this time of year

Next month a big change should appear

As friends of those in Summer Games

To Newfoundland will bring their frames.

The tourist upswing soon should start

To watch young people taking part

Regatta, not three weeks away

Should entice some to come and stay.

The next few weeks if we but wait

Should witness on the Cabot Strait

Tourists by thousands, big demand

To come across to Newfoundland.

Daily News Headline: Down in June, up in July: CN DEFENDS FERRY SERVICE

The diamond bare in silence merely waits,

Yet anxious, aware Softball animates

Its mound, first base and second, home or third,

The outfield, as the teams voices are heard

Encouraging each other, making jibes,

With friendliness and sharing, major vibes

As young and old spectator fun provide

In sport with an appeal that’s Province-wide

That starts with some aged four and spans the years,

Some nearing seventies receive the cheers

Of neighbours who offer their full support,

This truly is a good spectator sport

And while there isn’t anything unique

In July 1 to 8 being Softball Week

We took that extra time to look around

The thrill of taking part was what we found

As people like Dee Murphy now well known

The biggest trees from littlest acorns grow

Tremendous feat, the softball growth appears

We join Duey Fitzgerald giving cheers

To sponsors and supporters big or small

A sport that has the Province on the ball.

Daily News Headline: RARE GOOD NEWS: Port traffic up in St. John’s

A king size con job, seems to me

Has been done by N.L. and P.

Encouraging in manner sweet

Installing of electric heat

A program cleverly designed

With you, the customer, in mind

And with applications galore

Quite naturally you’re using more

And now who puts you on the spot

The cute one, Reddy Kilowatt

“Plug in, I’m ready,” but are we

Such high priced electricity

Now rising 8.4 percent

Must set some sort of precedent

Not only that, and here’s the rub

The sanctioning of this by PUB

Is qualified, to save us shock

As with advancing of the clock

We can expect each kilowatt

Will rise as Hydro calls the shot

Power in our ohms will costly be

Shocking price, electricity.

Daily News Headline: SWC says this should be recognized: HOUSEWIVES DO HAVE ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE

Catching our police off guard

In future won’t be very hard

Off guard they’ll be, so goes the word

If we believe what we have heard.

Government House was theirs always

To protect, through the nights and days

To answer protocol, and such,

They gave that extra special touch.

If they go, why? Surely they’ll be

For V.I.P. security

Still called upon, despite the fact

Security us on contract.

If from this post they are removed

Then surely it would have behoved

The wheels one more decision make-

Policemen from the meters take.

Daily News Headline: They kiss and make up!

Before Camp International

Our local Guides play host

To visiting Bahamas Guides

Who can already boast

Of local hospitality

And they were quite impressed

When each was to the Government House

Welcomed as a guest

Our guides totalling sixty-four

Are to Cape Breton bound

Will with two thousand others

Be on Moira River found

The world wide get-together

In the Nova Scotian breeze

Has guides from every Province

And from forty-four countries

Daily News Headline: ALCOHOL DESTROYING LIVES IN LABRADOR

Tomorrow should be quite a day

For heading out Placentia way

Regatta there, with all its charm

Will be held in the Southeast Arm.

When they in St. John’s will compete

It will be quite a special treat

Because it now is their intent

To keep in shape for the event

By walking to St. John’s, and note

They’ll carry with them their own boat

To see these men do things their way

Head for Placentia Saturday.

Daily News Headline: These Newfoundland women are: FLIRTING WITH DEATH

The men who watch crews practising every night

Are asking if there’s a mistake

Unlike the past years they now have a complaint

No seats at the head of the lake.

There are those every year who spend night after night

And mornings as well checking crews

Whose judgement is strikingly accurate too

They know winners and who’s going to lose.

The park bench arrangement had suited them fine

To keep a close eye on each race

And chin-wag with visitors watching the trials

The benches should be put in place.

The lake (Quidi Vidi) has beautiful grounds

Well groomed, it’s a marvellous sight

With walkways and playground and barbecue pits

And some benches, we hope, out tonight.

Daily News Headline: BOARD OF TRADE ON “BUOYANCY” STATEMENT: THEY’RE NOT SO SURE

Regatta is due in a week and a day

It’s a major event but this much I must say

The C.N.I.B. when they raced on the pond

In dories, could tell us what was going on.

To heighten the interest in races as such

We need something badly to keep us in touch

A loudspeaker system the lakeside to span

Not just to serve people around the bandstand.

Let’s hear it all over, who’s rowing and where

Their times, other details, it just isn’t fair

To have thousands watching not knowing the score

Let’s correct it this year, let it happen no more.

For people with transistors carried in hand

From radio they hear it all which is grand

But surely for race information there’s need

Will Committee on this Summer Games year take heed.

Daily News Headline: Women in two summer programs: LADY COPS NOT FAR OFF

The birds are company, as are

Insects and butterflies

I pass the time away somewhat

By watching changing skies

The children always make my day

There’s the odd saucy one

But most will their own business mind

And have their bit of fun.

The traffic some time whizzes by

At other times it’s choked

Some drivers very flustered seem

Get easily provoked.

They call me old, I’m rich in age,

Wrinkles adorn my face

I grew up in a slower live

Today too fast the pace.

The passing world ignores me now

Some day they old will grow

And hope, as I, someone takes time

To stop and say Hello.

Daily News Headline: Study claims Canadians have unfair advantages: Duty on fish justified: US report

The Garden Party’s on today

For folks of gentle years

City Hall will come alive

To song and dance and cheers.

This trademark of Mayor Dot

This senior folks concern

For her in hearts of golden years

A special spot will earn.

It’s a friendship renewing time

A day of laughs and fun

A day to share a dance or drink

A sandwich or a bun

The whole thing transforms City Hall

And gives it warmth worthwhile

Acknowledgement reflected in

Each senior person’s smile.

Daily News Headline: PUB approves premium changes: AUTO INSURANCE TO DROP

On hot days one way to keep cool

Is jump into a swimming pool

A leisure that we all enjoy

But not in Bowring Park me boy

The start was late but now he cripes

They’re having trouble with the pipes

They can’t replace the broken one

Because they’re obsolete me son

In our day when clean water ran

In Bowring Park there’d be a dam

And even though ‘twas often cool

We always had a swimming pool.

Daily News Headline: An amazing Metro meeting: “STOP ORDER” ON DEVELOPER

Is it Alcan’s, or is it fate’s decree

To terminate the fluorspar industry

Disease through inhalation courted grief

Death prematurely came, truly a thief

To steal young men, labelled with brevity

Their labours defying longevity

Blessings disguised may Alcan’s closing be

Life will be changed in this community

It may some hardships mean, some anxious strife

But what more precious than the gift of life

St. Lawrence can with ingenuity

The challenge meet, harvest from land and sea

A way of life; and those in Government

Should, if sincere, set up a precedent

Instead of tripping to another land

Go to St. Lawrence, give us a helping hand

Seek out the ways and means to make ends meet

Work day by day to get them on their feet

Let’s have no bluffs, and no chicanery

Rather a show of some integrity.

Good people, faith! As onward you must go

A new awareness, as you reap you sow.

Daily News Headline: NEAR RIOT IN ST. JOHN’S: Police are attacked (It happened in Saint John, too)

When City Council made it clear

That car wrecks had to be removed

You will recall we stated then

That City Council it behooved

To remove wrecks from Army Dock

And sure enough the wrecks are gone

As only last weekend we took stock

To Councillors we say: “Right on”.

Though in some places junk remains

Maybe within a week or two

If we continue making gains

A pre-Games cleanup sweep will do

There is awareness, that’s for sure

If we could clean up broken glass

Then St. John’s being a tidy place

For Summer Games could come to pass.

Daily News Headline: CANCER: It’s climbing in Newfoundland

We’re different in Newfoundland

For surely it’s an oddity

That if today’s a holiday

It’s by the weatherman’s decree

Regatta people meet this morn

Discussing forecast winds and sun

Considering foremost the crews

With thoughts as well for everyone

Concessionaires, and visitors

Are all considered early morn

If there’s a chance the day looks good

A new Regatta Day is born

A prime event, an old event

A lot of effort truly takes

With fingers crossed as I write this

I’ll see you later at the stakes.

Daily News Headline: LINERBOARD MILL CLOSES AUGUST 26

I met a flight

The other night

To greet friends on vacation

How one can run

As Kelly’s done

Staggers imagination

“We flew,” said he

“Right from B.C.

And Bren will do it running

A feat not done

By anyone

A sports event that’s stunning.”

Magnificent

Is this event

Towards Grand Falls he’s heading

And all the while

True Newfie style

In history he’s threading.

Daily News Headline: ON KILLING RETARDED INFANTS: Who’s going to play God? (But Bishop agrees: end their suffering and send them to Heaven

The coffee prices soared and soared

To highest we have seen

So quickly that we can’t relate

To what the price had been

So people switched their taste to tea

From bean to leaf went they

Tea industry a new leaf turned

They upped the price of “tay.”

True Newfoundlanders always liked

That special “spot of tea”

Will that in price beyond means grow

Become a luxury

Let’s all protest the rising price

And tea traditions keep

For people who like theirs full strength

The price is just too “steep.”

Daily News Headline: POLITICAL SCUTTLEBUTT: Will Roberts run? (Or will it be Jamieson?)

Clairvoyants, soothsayers, where are you now

Come quickly and gather around

A major enquiry is now underway

And the “Carson” is not to be found.

Can-Dive is searching the coast waters deep

Perhaps we should hire a Can-Find

Night-blindness, snow-blindness we’ve heard of

Can one be also sea-blind.

The “William Carson” sinking mystery grows

All possible reasons we’ve guessed

But isn’t it strange that despite the demise

The “Carson” is not yet at rest.

Is Newfoundland deceiving the serious searchers

Its sub-floor the “Carson” concealed

To add a mystique to the search under way

Will its secrets be ever revealed?

Daily News Headline: Cape Race base camp proposed for: RAISING THE TITANIC

The chicken or the egg, let’s see

Which came first is the enquiry

In tourist trade it must apply

Quite simply here’s the reason why.

The tourist asks, where can I stay

At the end of driving day

If we arrive at yours in droves

To see your villages and coves

To choose a new convention site

Why an accommodation plight?

The locals think: lest business swells

No use in putting up hotels.

We wait for tourists, they too wait

On each other we speculate

“Will they come in”, “Will I be housed”

Who gets who’s interest aroused!

We ask ourselves why tourist loss

He questions “Will I get across?”

We’re just not tourist-oriented folks

Or maybe prefer Newfie jokes.

Daily News Headline: No money to be had, but: CATHEDRAL RANSACKED

A triple crown, a three in one

Placentia crew again has won

While obviously having fun.

At home town first, win did chaulk

Then with their boat they took a walk

These men of action, not just talk.

They came to Quidi Vidi lake

Their place with others took at stake

The St. John’s Championship did take.

But one more challenge they did face

Which added to the gruelling pace

To row, and win at Harbour Grace.

They did, on Monday, Whittles three

Tom and Bren and Anthony

Were one half of the victory.

Frank Lannon, Gerard Barron too

With Leo Collins made the crew

In years, in a row, it was two.

With Adrian O’Keefe their cox

They practised hard and took their knocks

And then off others beat the socks.

A gallant crew, and this I say

My birthplace being out that way

Great stuff in the Far Greater Bay.

Daily News Headline: DID THE CARSON “HIT” THE ICE?

The best news yet for most of us

Who wish to stay alive

Is cutting out speed limit

To the speed of fifty-five

Were it like the arterial

With double lanes each way

Then sixty miles or even more

Would surely be okay

But sweeping curves and many hills

And a sub-standard grade

With traffic more than it can take

Forced this choice to be made.

A further step is worth a look

East burden on the trail

Why not revitalize CN

And go full tilt by rail.

Daily News Headline: The William Carson Inquiry: NO WARNING AS SHIP BEGAN TO SINK

They are a breed apart

These men who stand

Courageous, and alone, with sights afar

Who set a goal,

A feat as yet undone,

And somehow hitch their wagon to a star.

Of such a calibre

Is this young man

Whose age cheated his being in the games

Wo be identified

Promote the spirit

Has tilted him among sports greatest names.

Encouragement was sparse

A skeptic’s field day

But dogged perseverance was his mate

Pacific coastline

To shores of Atlantic

Across the nation at a steady gait.

As distance shortened

Interest increased

The tempo changed, we all identified

All doubts dispelled

The skeptics all have vanished

Bren Kelly, a name spoken now with pride.

Daily News Headline: Widespread use of soft drugs indicated: 46 ARRESTS IN DAWN DRUG RAIDS

The centrepiece of carpet-green grass and the Aquarena

become focal points for trickling spectators;

A warm, gentle breeze, spasmodically fans the

antique cars that put modern assembly line creations

to shame, stand patiently by few hundred yards to the west,

on a school parking lot, buffed to original sheen

to carry VIPs across centrefield to the platform of the day;

bright apparel, sparse in some cases,

endorses the glorious presence of an unfiltered sun;

waves of applause-crescendo as personalities Crosbie,

Jamieson, Moores, Wyatt and Trudeau take their place;

and the first standing ovation of the day is spontaneous;

a choreographed spirit of ’77,

entertainment in song, music and dance, and

an honour guard of newly-uniformed Newfoundland Constabulary

preface the main attraction-

the entry of the youthful participants.

A Summer Games Mascot leads the color party.

Other Newfoundland Dogs lead the way with each provincial flag

as the distinctively uniformed athletes present themselves

proudly to the dignitaries and the receptive Newfoundland public.

Welcome is carried on waves of continuous applause.

The Newfoundland athletic formation electrifies the crowd;

flags are transferred, gifts exchanged, a blessing invoked,

speeches read, most of which were subtly woven with pleas for unity.

Patricia Bradbury carries the symbolic torch to start the

Summer Games, officially proclaimed by Prime Minister Trudeau.

A helicopter close-range drop of ten thousand mini-flags

saves the day for the kids who know not the complexities

of an aborted air show,

and the Games are on!

Daily News Headline: All airline flights grounded: CONTROLLERS SHUT  AIRPORTS

From eyes of visitors I see

A great concept of Newfoundland

Our warmth projected naturally

A friendship felt with shake of hand.

The Summer Games respective sites

Are fascinating scenes to take

On sunny days of floodlit nights

Superlatives describe our lake.

For water skiing and canoe

They love the Quidi vidi scene

A real eye catcher this venue

As are the landscapes vivid green

Aquarena raves has drawn

Facility that’s termed “the most”

Something deserved when they have gone

For being such a friendly host.

Daily News Headline: Obtains tenant, hotel proposal: TRIZEC HAS A DEAL

Yet to be discovered is a fun place of the Games

The part at Quidi Vidi Lake, the site

A carnival of fitness and intro to many sports

For kids and adults it’s a real delight.

Skiing, skating, hockey, golf and soccer will be found

Archery, lacrosse, a tennis tent

Ping pong, universal gym, a place for volley ball

For kids there is a wee running event.

For young and old, and all of it is free

Participation’s caravan is here

Come on down and try it all, you’ll like it

Instructors too, a healthy atmosphere.

Daily News Headline: Approves splitting Stirling empire, but: CRTC HAS ‘SERIOUS CONCERNS’

With schedules winds may havoc blow

But they deter not from the show

Postponements, yes, but no disgrace

In fact participants embrace

A change like that to get around

To see what’s special to be found

To picture take, have tourist fun

In brilliant Newfie August sun

A lot we’ve met, they’re a delight

Exuberant, enthused, polite

Let’s hope the wind gave them a day

Of something they can take away

Some memory they can command

To remind them of Newfoundland

If so it’s more than we should

It’s an ill wind that blows no good.

Daily News Headline: Plan aims to promote gun safety: TESTS FOR HUNTING LICENCES

Whatever is said water-wise

It really comes as no surprise

We’re down a bit, that Bay Bulls stream

Last year was just too good a dream

These things take time but all is well

Agreed, it’s been as hot as hell

We sweat it out ‘neath sunny sky

We sweat it out if water’s shy

No matter what, we sweat it out

On water shortage, let’s not spout

Just play it cool, a week or two

The Bay Bulls hookup is soon due

The Summer Games venues at night

Have swallowed tons of water, right

A new demand this year, but yet

No need to work up to a sweat

If things get tough, Dot’s pretty slick

With rain dance or the old brick trick.

Daily News Headline: Plea to “forgive and forget”: QUEEN DEFIES BOMB THREAT

The settlement of Flatrock bade a welcome

A pilgrimage of cars: however brief,

The rosary in open air recited

Was moving evidence of strong belief.

With visitors was Flatrock inundated

A grotto of Our Lady being the scene

Where men of faith had carved out from the hillside

A focal point of homage to a Queen

The Queen of Heaven from the rugged façade

In sculptured image looks out to the sea

Around her steps that lead to fourteen stations

Recounting Christ’s journey to Calvary.

“Hail Mary full of grace”, the prayer is offered

Blessed are you and your son, the Jesus child

“Pray for us sinners” the plea is earnest

“At… hour of our death”, to be reconciled.

The young, the in-between, the aged were praying

“Ave Maria” from hills ricocheted

A plea to God through Mary’s invocation

For calls to Christ, thus fervently they prayed.

Daily News Headline: (Agreement still not signed) WATERFORD: BACK TO PICKET LINES?

The criminal does headlines make

Is pampered by society

At witness Son of Sam’s charade

Protected by psychiatry.

The compound sickness of our age

Is way out, dare we say how far

When books and movie rights are sought

A bazaar of one’s deeds bizarre.

Restoring order is a must

Self preservation being the cause

Accent on vigilantes looms

Although it lends itself to flaws.

The criminal should know the fear

And not be feared; to put it straight

Capital punishment, now shelved

Again we’ll have to legislate.

Daily News Headline: Maximum penalty: $1000, 12 months: POACHING HEAVY, CHARGE 200

The C.H.E. results are out

A handful have outclassed

The others, some have honour grades

And more just barely passed.

With Grade Eleven now behind

For some what lies in store

Relief that it is over now

And back to school no more.

For most the Trades is beckoning

Or University

With years ahead to further seek

A trade or degree.

But in between a missing link

Into which we must delve

The need was never greater

Let’s reintroduce Grade Twelve

Daily News Headline: TUCKER WINS BUTTERFLY SWIM: FIRST TASTE OF GOLD

A fad of certain magnitude in Summer Games went on

Involving people everywhere from Newfie to Yukon

Officials, most participants and volunteers won’t stop

Until they’ve made some kind of deal, exchange or trade or swap.

The badge, button and pin collectors make a lot of pleas

“You won’t miss that from your lapel, I’ll give you two of these”

“Not likely, I gave three myself, but tell you what I’ll do

Pick me up a Yukon hat, I’ll had a tenspot too.”

This trading bit is just another way to make a friend

Friendships formed will lasting be, long after Games will end

The anecdotes, the quips, the jibes, the competition smart

Will be for most a memory forever in their heart.

Daily News Headline: Expects to lose his command: BIG FINE FOR SOVIET SKIPPER

The accolades have many been

Throughout the Summer Games

We’ve heard praise about our venues

Heard it for many names.

But one great thread of strength has been

Woven into the Games

A sea of faces, hands and feet

And bodies without names.

A mass of people knows as fans

Events did well attend

From early morning they’d be there

Unto the bitter end

Support? Fantastic is the word

Our volunteers were great

Then thousands upon thousands came

To actively spectate.

An accolade indeed is due

To all the many fans

From Newfoundland, and upalong

Thank You to all hands.

Daily News Headline: Former mayor calls for regional system: CITY GOV’T ‘OUT OF TUNE’

The Summer Games conclusion, as its opening, was great

An honor to be present, and more, to participate

A man of courage joined us, Governor General Leger

Who spoke, forgot to close the games, but dashed back straightaway.

The Signal Hill Tattoo (Royal Newfoundland Regiment)

Was an historic pageantry, most colourful event

The youth parading on the field were jubilant and bright

With flags and banners waving, tossing luminous stick lights.

With cheers and a prolonged applause the crowd as one jumped up

As Newfoundland was named winner of the Centennial Cup

Our man of gold, Blair Tucker, was the proud recipient

Like the fireworks, a highlight of this happiness event.

A lady’s purse fell from the stand, a child was also lost

Another vision blurred, she somehow broke a stick light tossed

Some tears were shed with each embrace or final clasp of hand

The youth with banners summed it up with “Thank You Newfoundland”.

Daily News Headline: Home from Ontario on a visit: She’ll swim The Tickle this morning

We dangle on the Trizec string

They hold us in suspense

For nigh four years all kids of talks

And none of it makes sense

They’ll build, they won’t, perhaps, could be

Not as they planned at first

Reduced some more, so what’s the score

Has Trizec’s bubble burst?

The stall could valid be indeed

Some cash we have, want more

Our ultimatum, no refund

Just build, or there’s the door.

The black and white is what we hear

But there’s a lot of gray

Or have commitments been deferred

Pending election day.

Daily News Headline: INQUIRY CLEARS MOORES OVER TV

From Steers Cove fishermen were drove

To next one east called Bishops Cove

Wheelbarrows weren’t the best we know

The ultimatum was – to go.

They’re still on wheels, placed end to end

Three shacks comprise the latest trend

In fishermen – customer deal

Its newness its only appeal

For years the promises were great

Some candidate could hardly wait

To get in council, if changes make

Four years this little step to take

And more, that’s just John Murphy’s bit

Al Andrews had a fling at it

For city of this magnitude

The end result is almost crude

Why can we not promote our fish

As quite an appetizing dish

And build a really modern place

For buyer-seller interface.

A downtown mall few years ago

Had such a place where one could go

For fresh fish of all kinds, and more

Berries and root crops by the score

If it’s a start we shouldn’t squawk

But after all those years of talk

We did expect much more than that

The fish market just leaves me flat.

Daily News Headline: Hope it’s value will increase: WOULD DELAY REFINERY SALE

I’m not really not a picket type

Nor do I have a yellow stripe

Hence I do not in silence bask

And as required take some to task.

I have a family and wife

And strongly do believe in life

A gift, to me a noble trust

I write, act, as I feel I must.

The picket line I joined last week

Required me not to act nor speak

But stand in silence, poster high

Abortion action to defy

At General I took my stand

Though brief, to give a helping hand

I know the gift of life first hand

Its taking too at God’s command

The unborn child, the sick, the aged

Taking their life has me enraged

Who defies this, let me argue

What is your own life worth to you.

Daily News Headline: $3.45 MILLION NIP PROGRAM: Renewing the West End

It’s good relief from daily chores

To commune with the great outdoors

To scan the local countryside

And find one’s eyes are open wide

As scenic grandeurs do unfold

About which we’ve been often told

To senses tuned to Nth degree

No touch and smell and hear and see

The placid lake, the gurgling stream

The sea breeze, filtering a dream

As eyes are closed in summers sun

Relaxing from a bout of fun

A time to work, a time to play

A change of scenery each day

Can give that needed interlude

To restore one to working mood

We pace ourselves beyond repair

But time taken in open air

To savor nature at its best

Can not but leave one so impressed

With all the beauty close at hand

In our own province, Newfoundland.

Daily News Headline: DID THRUSTER SYSTEM SINK THE CARSON?

For different people, different things

September, when the school bell rings

From summer, students will unwind

To face the new scholastic grind.

The teachers will a challenge face

With each new grade and each new face

Principals their hands will wring

Until all hands get in the swing.

Some little folks can’t sleep at night

The thought of school does so excite

With older brotherse, sisters, they

To Kindergarten make their way.

Though school they very freely choose

There always are the first day blues

Moms quietly will disappear

On day one, keeping back a tear.

Daily News Headline: RIOT IN LOURDES: PARISH HALL LEVELLED BY FIRE

To most of the people it is no surprise

The tourist trade didn’t materialize

With one ferry short and the airlines on strike

The obvious question is “What are you like?”

We now have ambassadors three thousand plus

The youth who have spent all their Games times with us

They’ll be the big spenders a few years away

In future, the summer games promos will pay.

Before they are ready and others we lure

Again all our tourist minded must mature

Hotels, transportation, let’s amply provide

Let’s be ready when tourist doors we open wide.

Daily News Headline: CANOE MISHAP: FAMILY OF 8 DROWN

Foreheads dripping in the heat

Backs and haunches sore

Berry picking amateurs

Are thus, from bending o’er.

The fascinating blueberries

More commonly called whorts

Are tasty, eaten from the bush

Or served up in desserts.

They’re big and plentiful this year

But there’s a twist to it

For designated picking grounds

You must have a permit.

Daily News Headline: Report on insurance: MAKE SEAT BELTS MANDATORY

There now are four

We expect more

Who really feel the need

To lead the way

Election Day

If Liberals will heed.

For leadership

They’re on a trip

Four of them in a Rowe

In there is Steve

And Ed won’t leave

Roger, is that not so.

Roberts declares

You know his wares

And Neary’s been around

Bill Rowe’s all go

And he says so

Simmons tries being profound.

In calm, and storm

They will perform

October in the Arts

As actors they

Will then display

All their well-rehearsed parts.

Daily News Headline: Suggestion for referendum: WARD SYSTEM ON BALLOT?

Told Bonne Bay scenery was great

Like most we could but speculate

Vacation time did gravitate.

It was as stated, like a page

From remnants of the glacial age

Where wild life has not heard of cage.

Volcanic scenes of eras past

Imprinting visuals that last

Enroute Trout River may be passed

A three-arched rock carved by the sea

Stands sentinel like splendidly

In Parsons Pond vicinity

Northern Peninsula can boast

Fine beaches all along the coast

The sandy ones we liked the most.

From waking dawn to closing dark

The scenic wealth of Gros Morne Park

On visitors does leave a mark.

Daily News Headline: CARSON INQUIRY HEARS CHIEF ENGINEER, MASTER: Water ‘flowed like waterfall’

With Liberal convention in October

And names still pouring in for leader’s spot

One of Trudeau’s ministers being in there

And winning, would indeed surprise me not.

There’ll be so many seeking the position

Some will ask others “what’s his name, me son”

“I don’t know but it really doesn’t matter

The heavyweight is there, Don Jemieson.”

This speculative look is not unreal

In Trudeau’s cabinet a change is due

Don Jamieson’s upper echelon performance

Was such what he takes on he’ll see it through.

Whatever be the platform of his choosing

His background local, national, will count

And for the very reason of being “in there’

His name will always have that special clout.

Daily News Headline: Application filed with PUB: HYDRO SEEKING 30% MORE

The Davies bit, what came of it

Sentenced two weeks in jail

A day or so, he’s on the go

And now he’s out on bail

What is the gaff, has he last laugh

Cannot the judgement stand

No reason, rhyme; it seems that crime

Now gets the upper hand

And as we see, Doyle beat the law

Vardy did it as well

It makes one squirm, when laws aren’t firm

Our future, who can tell.

Police are foiled, lawbreakers spoiled

The balance isn’t right

Forget tut-tuts, the law needs guts

May someone see the light.

Daily News Headline: Corner Brook to study curfew

Surely something must be done

When spuds that bear Grade No. 1

Are practically rotten to the core

The label printed P.E.I.

Should guarantee some kind of buy

We salvaged some but threw away much more.

The circumstance I now forget

But local stock we couldn’t get

Too rushed, too late, oh just some minor thing

But time has come to make a point

It’s one that leaves us out of joint

And not an isolated happening.

We get the poorest grades of fruit

And vegetables, get the root

In quality and prices at one time.

If Newfoundland did so export

We’d probably end up in court

For perpetrating some cankerous crime.

Daily News Headline: Chafe’s Nursing Home Inquiry: HALF OF CITY A FIRETRAP

Though quite outgoing in his home

A real loquacious chap

When he me his first teacher

He’d scarcely open his trap.

A little apprehensive then

A big adventure, this

The unknown bravely faced

When fortified by mother’s kiss.

Not quite five yet, courage it takes

To try to keep one’s cool

Another cycle in our life

The youngest started school.

Daily News Headline: Chafe Nursery Home Inquiry: NURSE REPORTED HAZARDS

As temperatures go we’ve forfeited our Fahrenheit

We’re getting used to Celsius, it’s working out all right

The big conversion job is on, with street and highway change

The miles per hour we’re used to we will now have to estrange.

The highway speed has bee reduced in miles to fifty five

The object of the exercise to help us stay alive

In KILL-O-METERS (so pronounced) road signs will ninety read

Though the figures are much higher there’s a lessening of speed.

The thirty miles per hour will fifty KILL-O-METERS be

We’ll have to think in metric and it must be instantly

Converting inches, ounces, miles will leave us more confused

The only way to understand is see that metric’s used.

In time the standards that we knew to metric will apply

Zero, water freezing time, we’ll know thirty is high

The whole thing will be relative, and so much more we’ll know

If we’ll think in metric only, and the old system let go.

Daily News Headline: LOWERING THE TCH SPEED LIMIT: It won’t save lives!

Are Labour Relations a farce

Or simply a pain in the neck

Is bargaining gone out of style

Does no one at all give a heck.

A city or government must

Be in a position of course

To manage affairs as required

Availing of every resource

Have management people gone nuts

Or is it they just lack the touch

To insist on production from all

Stating clearly how long, and how much.

The see-saw won’t balance too well

Some unions have just gone to lunch

It’s time for assessing on merits

Not being just one of the bunch

The labour relations aspects

To which no one really pays heed

Should be with more thought be discussed

For some order there’s truly a need.

Daily News Headline: Plans big fisheries meeting: JAMIESON WOULD END CARTER-LEBLANC FEUD

Progress with a capital P

We’re getting arterially

From the dust of the drill

To resodding the hill

It is moving along splendidly.

It’s quite an upheaval up west

For some it is hard to digest

That the west end they knew

Is torn up, all askew

But the past has to be put to rest

It is forward and onward we go

With big changes in traffic flow

Patience truly we need

Moving at normal speed

It will take about two years or so.

Daily News Headline: Carter charges federal deal with foreigners: FISH QUOTAS FOR WHEAT SALES

A big clean up for Summer Games

The city was meticulous

But two men have reversed it all

Now isn’t that ridiculous.

The householders are victims of

Municipal depravity

It’s time both parties realized

The situation’s gravity.

If union can’t with management

Its discipline negotiate

Its leaders are inadequate

Should be replaced before too late.

The right to strike is fair enough

But two men hold up the works

Make council and the union both

Appear as just a bunch of jerks

Daily News Headline: Mount Pearl to take in Newtown-Donovans: TOWN BOUNDARIES TO BE EXPANDED

The Moncton papers are upset about getting the axe

CN Marine should stay there, not go down to Halifax

They cite an empire building scheme, a senior exec’s whim

With concern, call on their M.P. and put the case to him.

A point they make intrigues me some, no matter which they choose

Be it Moncton of Halifax they’re still remote from crews

The fact that Moncton will lose jobs has irked them beyond all

They’re making noise but what of us, will we not squawk at all.

The crews are ours, it is our coast, CN marine ships ply

Headquarters naturally belong, not just a place to fly

Monctonians, upset because, they feel it is their right

In this sense lived off Newfoundland, and played the parasite.

What right have they or Halifax to use control remote

To guide the destiny of crews, and ships we have afloat

Headquarters here in Newfoundland, and there should be no ‘buts’

Tingly in his place should be put, if someone had the guts.

Daily News Headline: Widow say cancer “cure” clinics a waste of money… GRABBING AT STRAWS

An example for you of consumer’s abuse

In making a purchase of Kraft orange juice

The sixty four ounce size at one fifty two

And I reached in for six as I usually do

My wife and I fill up our basket the while

Taking time for a chat or exchanging a smile

And restocking a shelf or a cooler or bin

With things not required that the youngest put in

Till we wended our way to a cashier where we

Keep check of the items we pay for dearly

And what a surprise when she rang up the juice

It seems price controls were let suddenly loose

“Hold on miss”, we chimed, “there is something not straight

You’re ringing the juice in at one eighty eight”.

“It’s marked here”, she snapped, “there’s not much I can do”

“But last week we bought it for one fifty two”

Another cashier said, as she sensed the plight

“I bet you got these from the end cooler, right?”

We agreed, but said “Can’t be up thirty six cents”

She then told us something to break the suspense

“Under the fruit stands they’re priced one fifty two”

I exchanged them of course, that’s some how do you do

A new one on me, cooler products cost more

A real tip off wrinkle, and isn’t it sly

There’s so much to watch for, what next will they try.

Daily News Headline: RCMP holding man from another party: SHOT FOR MOOSE, HUNTER DIES

I’d heard a bit of Johnny Burke

And on the Mummers set

Through gift of audience rapport

I feel as if we met.

With certain scenes I empathized

A talent poets share

The Mummers did a handsome job

And did it with a flair

The L.S.P.U. hall itself

Although transformed somewhat

Appropriately centre staged

Our Johnny on the spot.

While there I met a gentleman

One of the kids who sold

The poems of Mr. Burke: “It’s true

He had a heart of gold”.

Daily News Headline: Newfoundland’s transportation priority: GET BULKS BACK IN THE RAILS

The Hydro increase in the wings

Could have adverse effects

If small business or industry

Eventually it wrecks

Must such remarks on deaf ears fall

When there is such a threat

Preventative measures now are due

Not when the rate is set

Last things we need are those that swell

Ranks of the unemployed

The government’s onus to see

Economy is buoyed

How can hydro dictate a hike

Who really holds the power

Shareholders? Government? Let’s see

For surely now’s the hour

First publication: September 21, 1977

Daily News Headline: Importance of Churchill Falls demonstrated: BLACKOUT IN QUEBEC

We call it a seasonal hazard

But one not too lightly to take

Being aware, being alert, using caution

Could spare you a fatal mistake.

With moose on the loose watch it closely

Defensively drive all the way

Extremely alert in the nighttime

And all normal caution by day.

The daily Trans-Canada driver

Of danger spots must be aware

But daily or just on occasion

This time of year use extra care.

Daily News Headline: UNION SAYS NO

The television impact is a factor now in courts

Violence and crime their stories tell

Where TV is the centrepiece there’s something lacking too

People can’t on conversation dwell.

This focused every sharply just an evening ago

When a living room, with fireplace did glow

A very charming lady, in her wealth of gentle years

With warmth kept up a conversation flow.

We spanned some years of history, the bright spots and the rest

Person to person interest was keen

No furtive glances, sly asides, or over shoulder peaks

To glimpse a flashing image on a screen

How interesting people are if only we take time

To have a two way chat, subjects galore

The art of conversation, for it truly now is that

To many hearts can open up a door.

Daily News Headline: Mayor says drivers upset: METROBUS STRIKE LIKELY

It took a lot of courage all the bus drivers to fire

But the forthrightness of Pitcher is an action to admire

His barrel full of apples has the normal rotten few

And dumping them all out has helped him get a better view.

A manager must manage, be assertive, know his place

Be firm in his decisions though derision he may face

In this case there’s no politics, and being autonomous

A public service step he took regardless of the fuss.

Unions have their place we know to keep relations straight

But miserably fail when they to management dictate

It’s time that someone gumption showed when things went all askew

And not have the majority destroyed by just few.

Prerogative of management a junior to promote

Potential must be recognized, it’s but a trial we note

Even in permanent the right is management’s to say

Who warrants being moved up a rung, it has to be that way.

Daily News Headline: ARMED ROBBERY: Sawed-off shotgun nets $429

At Hamilton and Simmonds there’s a traffic bottleneck

The street is narrow where it intersects

Despite the tie-ups very few complaints are registered

The usual indifference, one suspects.

Driving east on Hamilton one lane to Simmonds points

Traffic held there backing up somewhat

Leaving just a narrow lane for traffic heading east

Two poles restricting movement at that spot.

A fatal accident occurred across the street from this

Must there another be to set it straight

This section is a hazard, traffic people look again

For safety sake do not procrastinate.

Daily News Headline: OUTSIDE WORKERS IN ST. JOHN’S: Out again today?

“Injunction, Injunction!”, some citizens cry

“Ignore them, ignore all the strikers”, say I

They care not for us, oh yes, grievance there be

The helper should not have been sacked, I agree

But unions have leaders, responsible men

Who should have the savvy, in word, or by pen

To firmly within terms of contracts discuss

The pros and the cons and come up with a plus

Meantime the savings from salaries should

Be strictly accounted for, put to the good

Applied to snow clearing, loan payments, or such

The funds set aside, citizens kept in touch

With the savings accrued, and they’re not all that stunned

They would prefer that to a petty refund

There must to this strike be a positive note

A salary diversion is getting my vote.

Daily News Headline: Another suspension… and the strike goes on… and the garbage piles up while the workers wait on city hall

I’ve been among the city garage customers parked free

And noticed on occasion it was filled to level G

To really get the hang of it, I went right up to P.

It is a great facility, it’s central, it’s indoors

An elevator service takes you to your choice of floors

Weather protection offered if it’s snowing, or it pours.

The starting rate was much too high, scared business away

If there’s a service given people are prepared to pay

But not to take a roasting or be objects of a prey

The parking meter fee is fine, we know the place is there

The Council now a decent scale of charges must declare

Better filled at lower price, than high priced, lying bare.

Daily News Headline: Outside workers back to work: STRIKE OVER!

This Sunday coming ought to be

An afternoon of fun

The Jaycees have a gimmick day

“Take up your bed and run.”

A body in a bed is pushed

By four more, that makes five

From Prescott west on Water Street

East down the Harbour Drive.

For Jaycees it’s another first

Never before being done

In St. John’s this spectator sport

Should be a lot of fun

For young and old a laugh in store

Downtown puts on a face

Of fun and frolic, clownish things

Enjoy the first bed race

Any money the Jaycees make

Goes to a special fund

The Multiple Sclerosis wins

Go down, don’t be so stunned.

Daily News Headline: SEABOARD HAS THE CONTRACT

Allied Youth, what does it do?

Who are they? What’s their game?

Last weekend they did clean-up work

But why a week proclaim?

They help out in community

Visit the aged, and sick

Their attitude is – get involved

In groups, yet not a clique.

They set their standards very high

Have meetings, protocol

But doing things the proper way

Makes them so on the ball.

The principle with which they work

Would drive some up the wall

But work or fun, they do without

Drug use, or alcohol.

Things can be done, constructively

Their camp projects, their fun

No crutch like drugs or alcohol

They prove it can be done.

Daily News Headline: BURN OFF FUEL LOAD

The Cape Spear road is overall

In quite half decent shape

Except for that last steep approach

Winding down to the cape.

Much caution here, but quite a sight

When one takes in the view

Beyond, the ocean’s great expanse

At hand, the autumn’s hue.

To left, a shape that’s Cabot Tower

In background, Pleasantville

Fort Amherst’s blinking lighthouse

And the back of Southside Hill

A park site incomplete as yet

The invitation’s here

The old lighthouse, and new, to see

Unique place is Cape Spear

Accessible indeed, the Cape

Yet it is still remote

The silent sentinel stands out

A guide to all afloat.

Daily News Headline: Walter Carter’s Grand Bank outburst: HE’D QUIT BEFORE HE’D SWITCH

Controlling the curious people at fires

Wherever there is such a scene

Is not being effectively done, I contend

From what I have witnessed and glean

The waterfront holocaust surely must be

An example, though I wasn’t there

But pictures have said so, and it was quite clear

From dramatic accounts on the air.

Two neighbourhood fires was a positive proof

“Move back” for a few seconds works

But people ease in, getting closer once more

And that’s where catastrophe lurks.

We’re just very lucky, but there has to be

An adamant, follow-up role

If major catastrophes we would avert

There must be enforced crowd control.

Daily News Headline: Few voters to hear them: ONLY 4 CANDIDATES AT CITIZENS’ FORUM

The City council candidates at present time are few

There’s registered reaction of concern

But there are many reasons for the tardiness displayed

As one with interest, you live and learn.

John Murphy’s explanation is as valid as can be

Some just won’t have the time the job requires

It’s better in this instance to defer to those who will

As with all things, the novelty expires.

There is another factor which I hold significant

The long campaign is costly, and we note

The candidates who barely made the deadline four years past

With less expenses got a winning vote.

A heavy slate of candidates I honestly project

His prerogative when each his move will make

But only the most serious should seek a council seat

The next four years there’s quite a lot at stake.

Daily News Headline: Armed robbers not “epidemic” chief says: NO PLANS TO ARM POLICE

How unconcerned have we become

That we do not express

Our feelings of the movie fare

That pornographic mess.

I’ve only seen a few protests

And that’s a sorry state

Editors pages should be filled

By citizens irate

Denouncing this, and killings too

Of babies yet unborn

Are there none with convictions left

Who would such actions scorn

It seems that few and far between

Are those who dare to speak

An age of gutless wonders this

Backs bear a yellow streak.

Daily News Headline: Metro board decision opposed: VOW TO STOP APARTMENTS

The torsos bending o’er the earth

To barrens gravitate

With all extremities at work

Palate to satiate.

The eyes along the barrens scan

The little leaves to spot

That signal partridge berry growth

Arms get in on the plot.

They reach through other foliage

The little berry (red)

Is plucked, containered, carried home

To soon be jam instead.

Daily News Headline: CAN’T SURVIVE ON SERVICE FEES: Municipalities must up taxes

The autumn winds their roles begin to play

I watched them from my window yesterday

The green of stately trees gives way to brown,

Yellow and red, the odd leaf tumbles down.

I sight one tree, a slender maple, young

Throughout the summer birds have in it sung

It’s still, its leaves a-flutter, until they

With sudden gust, the tree itself will sway.

The breeze is cool, beyond caressing stage

It soon accelerates into a rage

It must deleaf the trees before the snow

That we in Spring again may watch them grow.

Daily News Headline: POLICE HAVE NEW CONTRACT

I’m just a little paper match

I don’t mean much to you

But when I get some help, oh boy

The damage I can do.

My cousin’s head was snowy white

He made the wedding pack

A smoker brought them home with him

And then he hit the sack.

His cigarette was still aglow

When he chose to retire

My cousin with the ciggy met

And started quite a fire.

I’m just a little paper match

But proud as I can be

Whether my job is big, or small

Is up to you, not me.

Daily News Headline: Oil and gas exploration off Labrador: Drilling resumes in the spring

Have we a crosswalk complex?

Traffic-wise, paranoid?

It looks that way, pedestrians

The crosswalks do avoid.

I have been quite deliberate

In crosswalk use of late

And proved beyond the slightest doubt

Pedestrians must wait

To step off is a “no no”

The driver’s glare of scorn

Is given you with emphasis

By blowing of his horn.

Amazing, this reaction

But crosswalks are ignored

That’s where the coasting driver

Decides she should be floored.

Drivers’ respect for crosswalks

Should be enforced, no squawk

With fines for those pedestrians

Electing to jay walk.

Daily News Headline: LIBERAL LEADERSHIP CANDIDATES: Which one will it be?

Congratulations, Mr. William Rowe

Your speech tells us directions you will go

This year’s campaign its own impression made

It’s action time, all words have now been said.

Ed Roberts, sir, you’ve earned an accolade

A sincere contribution you have made

Charisma, no, but dedication, yes

These bluest years you managed with finesse.

Steve Neary, I thought sir, you had the clout

I’m suspect (that’s my right) why you pulled out

I like your style, flamboyant ways, that flair

But somehow Saturday, it wasn’t there.

Roger Simmons, in some quiet interlude

Do reflect, some pompous ways you do exude

In your favour there is youth, act not in haste

Else the talents that you have may go to waste.

Hugh Shea, you’re colourful, your spark and wit

Convention needed to put life in it

I like your drive, convictions, courage shown

And two votes surely proves you’re not alone

The Liberals new image now will show

With fresh direction of Leader Bill Rowe

This should indeed be challenge to P.C.s

To stay in power means work, it’s not a breeze.

Daily News Headline: Defeats Roberts on 4th ballot: LIBERALS PICK ROWE

Integrity and gentlemanly ways

When one’s consistent efforts warrants praise

Talents of superb calibre displayed

Of such are Hall of Fame inductees made.

Dr. David Cecil Johnston had been named

For hockey, soccer, rugby so acclaimed.

William J. (Bill) Harris’ near two decade span

As all round sportsman and true gentleman

In soccer, base, basketball he excelled

Rowing and hockey niches too he held.

Promotion, organizing, fan rapport

Keeping sports and sportsmen in the fore

Civic minded; attributes as such

That are the trademarks of a builder’s touch.

Two gentlemen, since gone, earned this acclaim

Inducted into our Sports Hall of Fame

John M. Tobin joined the unique cast

With Arthur Johnson, on Saturday past

In having their respective tributes paid

For sporting contributions they had made

A ceremony without slightest doubt

That proves what sportsmanship is all about.

Daily News Headline: Here’s the reason for 15 per cent rate hike: CN WANTS TO LOWER DEFICIT

There is within our midst a special voice

The undiscovered gem, the precious stone

A voice on its career yet to be launched

In talent there is always the unknown.

I hail the voice of Janet Bradbury

It’s one that has its destiny in song

So rich, so natural, of such dimension

It really to the people does belong.

In concerts I have met her through the year

Most recently at the Sports Hall of Fame

The confidence and warmth of presentation

At each appearance earns her new acclaim.

I witnessed also a keyboard chairman

Ignatius Rumboldt’s touch so sensitive

Enhancing an already rich performance

From a young lady with so much to give.

Daily News Headline: General Hospital chairman declares: HOSPITAL STRIKES MUST BE OUTLAWED

With minor hockey in the wings

It brings to mind a lot of things

The coaches who much time will spend

To help each anxious little friend

The Moms and Dads who sacrifice

To give their kids time on the ice.

For what? To share in their delight

Or urge them to get in a fight

To let them know the game is fun

Or insist they should have won.

Do trophy winning most exhort

Forgetting the true aim of sport?

Before it starts let’s check our mood

Question ourselves on attitude

The emphasis is all too great

On winning trophies, as of late.

If you would to your kids be true

Then certainly it behoves you

To downplay all this trophy thirst

And make true sportsmanship come first.

Daily News Headline: Quebec: Trudeau considering ALL-CANADA-VOTE

Adhering to one’s tried and true traditions

With zeal, and poise, and dignity and grace

Requires great purpose, fervent dedication

The Queen has done so, always keeping pace.

Aware of the importance thrust upon her

Being born into a life of great demands

Her Majesty has earned her honoured title

An influence of note in many lands.

Above all she has been a splendid mother

Whose family beliefs are very strong

A strength itself which warrants admiration

Gracious, a term which to her does belong.

Daily News Headline: Hey, Mr. and Mrs. Taxpayer! WHAT WOULD YOU DO WITH $1.92 A WEEK?

“Is that a space ship Dad?” he asked

“Think we can get a ride?”

I had to tell him it was not.

He took it all in stride.

The flying saucer that he saw

Marine Lab proved to be

A place of much experiment

Of life within the sea.

A pool enclosure on the site

Had its unique appeal

It registered in voice and eyes

“Hey look! A real live seal!”

The seal performed, better than hoped

Its head out o’er the wall

A dive to take it centre pool

A flip, then standing tall.

From spaceship thrill to nature’s treat

Attention quickly switched

It’s just that something different

That makes us all bewitched.

Daily News Headline: Pro-Life group will protest: ABORTIONS MADE EASY

The item’s a small one, you’ll scan it with haste

But it’s an example of Government waste

The money spent yearly on tropical plants

Deserves more attention than merely a glance

In dollars costs four hundred thousand or more

For Federal offices so called décor

If forestry people creative could be

There’d be no need first place to import a tree.

Waste of good money goes on every day

Let’s say that a Mountie is transferred away

To send his car with him to help relocate

More than the car’s worth it is costing in freight.

It’s costing us really, it’s taxpayers dough

What weird economics, it just goes to show…

These types of things multiplied cause us to moan

But it does give a clue where our money is goin’

Daily News Headline: Newfoundland proclaims oil and gas regulations: Peckford expects drilling to resume in the spring

A blatant waste of money for the sake of gimmerckery

Is the cost of House of Commons members getting on T.V.

But hidden is a subtlety that’s dangerous and gross

Of politics viewers will get a dreadful overdose.

The media assigned to monitor the House foray

Through its perceptive personnel get highlights of the day

They sift and sort, zero in, with varying degree

But when the House is televised watch out for apathy

The populace will be turned off and so will be their sets

House attraction will be nil, who’s placing any bets

The other thing significant, and where it’s goin’ to hurt

Is talking for performance sake, all hail the extrovert.

And therein lies another curse, denied will be the one

Who though articulate, can’t act, who may, under the gun

To viewer seem inadequate, and yet another cost

Through T.V. many able politicians may be lost.

Daily News Headline: EIGHT BIDS FOR FAT CONTRACT

Bingo is an industry

The money it rotates

But where are Bingo cards being made?

In the United States.

Shutter types used commonly

Are made in the U.S.A.

Even the “jackpot” paper type.

To that what do you say.

If all the other provinces

Import from the U.S.

No wonder our economy’s

In such a sorry mess.

No bus’ness is more lucrative

Transactions all in cash

If cards were made in Canada

There’d be a printing bash.

There’ll be an everlasting need

For Bingo cards to print.

But why import them from the States?

Will someone take the hint?

Daily News Headline: The Russians are coming to Gander

Fall back in the fall,

Just to put it in rhyme

That’s a hint of tomorrow nights changing the time

Midnight comes twice if your clock goes back then

To eleven, and one hour it’s midnight again.

Early birds some extra daylight will see

But days will be shorter for majority

Light bills will sore and car batteries will drain

A pre-winter warning clocks go back again.

Daily News Headline: French in our schools is “lamentable”

Little people dressed as monsters

Witches, ghosts are on parade

Door to door for yearly handouts

Sort of mammoth masquerade.

Caution to the driving public:

Homeward drive is headlight time

Kids in droves will be excited.

Be ready to stop on a dime

Caution to the little people:

Don’t wear masks that do not fit

Better still disguise with make-up

That adds to the fun of it.

Daily News Headline: UIC PREMIUMS GOING UP

Will Murphy take office of Wyatt be Mayor

It’s sort of a memory test, is it not?

What has John done as a Deputy Mayor

Ask yourself then what has been done by Dot.

Write off the friction and personal clashes

Don’t be dissuaded by surfacing noise

Look for the in-depth and real contributions

Personality clashes should not be decoys.

Think back to promises four years behind them

Underline mentally what has been done

Review the crises, and how each was handled

Reactions of each when put under the gun.

Think of emergencies, floodings and snowstorms

Don’t forget strikes, where some chances were blown

Make true assessments of each, and project it

Good luck and good choice; in the booth you’re alone.

Daily News Headline: The Speaker orders an investigation BUG IN MP’S OFFICE

The offerings of Sunday in the autumn

Are varied as the nature of the day

A concert pianist, with vocals added

Was an experience which came my way.

Audience light, promotion only verbal

Yet what a treat, an afternoon of joy

At Holy Heart the “grand” quite proudly echoed

Euphonic deftness of Brenda Molloy

Confident, and yet unostentatious

Wrists, feet, fingers, memory combined

Beethoven, Schubert, others, through this artist

With audience of Sunday intertwined.

Her singing, seemingly without much effort

Was evidence of splendid voice control

Songs beautiful, diversified as talent

Two curtain calls earned for her singing role

Community concerts I’ve oft attended

This lady’s talents rank in such a class

Miss Molloy, in concert, quite engaging

May more performances soon come to pass.

Daily News Headline: Flooding, dismantling at St. Lawrence: IT’S THE END OF THE MINES

The bottlenecks around St. John’s

Cause motorists to lose their cool

With traffic tie-ups there’s a need

To institute a motor pool.

Some have already started it

Bringing their children to a school

As neighbours they are quite prepared

To save time through a motor pool.

For more traffic effectiveness

And candidates may use this tool

Congestion in the city streets

Will be reduced by motor pool.

Daily News Headline: Leveque in Paris predicts Quebec’s future: “SOON, A NEW COUNTRY”

I’d like to see in Council ranks

Cross section of our populace

Housewives, taximen, and those

In profession or business.

In voting we should think it out

Promotion is a costly game

Will that be your criterion

To help you settle on a name.

If it be so then more’s the shame

You have the responsibility

To see out those who’ve offered you

Their service, with sincerity.

Not all are blessed with budgets big

The unknowns your attention rate

But notice how the media

To money people gravitate.

Fair ball, if they would not exclude

The candidates who need the press

Let’s give the lesser known a boost

Time and space their views to express.

Daily News Headline: Newfoundland-Quebec joint hydro development: READY TO TALK TURKEY

Tomorrow is election day, we choose the eight plus one

Who will the next four years ahead, affairs of city run

There is a YOUNG one named Eugene, hard working self-made man

A SENIOR person, Aubrey, former MHA will stand

Ray O’NEILL the traffic man, his second term will seek

Dave BARRETT low profiler from whom we’ve not heard a squeak

The back room boys, behind the scenes their forte it would seem

Jim FAGAN and Brian HIGGINS have a re-election dream

Shoeman Walter NOEL stuck his foot inside the door

Like Andrew WELLS of CUPE is a young one, thirty four.

Ladies three are seeking seats, one last election ran

Freelancer, home economist, that’s Mrs. INNES (Fran)

At ease with speeches that she reads or speaking off the cuff

Is Heritage proponent and newcomer Shannie DUFF

Nellie LUDLOW debut makes in St. John’s, but before

Politically was involved, three times in Labrador

Jay PARKER, shoeman, makes a bid to fill the council void

Once claimed he’d like to mainland ship all local unemployed

Fred WILLIAMS active Legion man will make a second try

His car wash business ruined last year, water in short supply

Two men retired, with time to spare, may city problems face

From Mundy Pond Householders group, a vocal Edward GRACE

Hugh BAIRD, a proven businessman, the other, makes his bid

Whose claim to fame not what he’ll do, but rather what he did

A contractor who perseveres awaits the open door

For Charlie NORRIS it’s old hat, this try is number four

Taximan Gus BREEN, first timer, says his best he tries

Hal AUSTIN true to business feels it pays to advertise.

From the above we’ll vote for eight, and now for the “Plus One”

The Mayor’s seat, incumbent WYATT now under the gun

Aspirant MURPHY pushing hard discrediting enroute

While Dorothy cucumber style seems not to give a hoot

Above the critical acclaim, with viewpoints of her own

Will she hang in there, or will John just push her off the throne?

Daily News Headline: HERO’S WELCOME FOR LEVESQUE!!!

Desire to save is present still

But our economy

From all sides keeps the average Joe

From this reality

On Christmas advertising rush

Each year I’d have my say

But as some businessmen advised

It helps our layaway

In shopping time just forty days

Which all too quickly flies

The reason why the businesses

So early advertise

Pay cheques are so thinly spread

These days there is a need

To plan for Christmas earlier

Necessity makes speed

In recent years we’re witness to

Changes in many ways

Not the last of which, of course

Pre-Christmas shopping craze.

Daily News Headline: LIVESTOCK FARMERS UPSET OVER HIGH FEED COSTS: “We’re treated like dogs!”

Coughs and sniffs and colds galore

The sick list quickly grows

With changing weather in late Fall

Especially when it snows.

The weatherman with business

Is plainly in cahoots

Witness the dash for winter tires

And shoe store rush on boots.

The overcoat and parka sales

Will quickly escalate

The weather does have side effects

For business, it’s great.

Daily News Headline: Wyatt’s in, in a squeaker…: SHE’S STILL THE MAYOR

The little old lady from window looked out

She dreaded the thought of the snow

She spoke of restrictions the season will bring

She hated the winds that will blow

Her fear of the ice on the sidewalks was real

Very negative tone one would say

But she added a sort of P.S. to it all

When she saw little children at play.

“The young enjoy winter, they slide, and they skate

And they ski, or throw snowballs”, said she

“Here am I griping”, she chided herself

“Forgetting how I used to be.”

“Oh how I loved sleigh rides and catamarans

And Santa Claus,” wistful her sigh

The phone interrupted, and graciously so

I’d rather I not see her cry.

Daily News Headline: SQUID SQUABBLE: There’s some truth in Baker’s charges

The bonfire blitz of Guy Fawkes night

On something shed a little light

The total vandalistic tendency

But Alec Hickman this won’t buy

Forever turning a blind eye

How can he justify such clemency

For heaven’s sake have you no spine

Take action, sir, or please resign

Armed holdups you were warned of long ago

When vandalism rampant grew

You played down what we knew was true

You did permit this trend of crime to grow.

Unless some leadership is shown

We’ll have to do things on our own

Self preservation will make its demand

Policemen need backup support

Instead the system efforts thwart

Mr. Hickman, sir, it’s getting out of hand.

Daily News Headline: Seal fur market almost gone

What is a library?

It is more than a collection of books,

a contemplative corner,

a place to meet.

A library is a good friend.

It is a “picture book world” to the pre-schooler

a word builder-upper to juniors,

an essay filler-outer

and homework helper to the elementary,

a reference source

and an in-depth background for the high-schooler,

A study room,

a research and support function for the university student

.

It is a speechmaker’s haven,

a teacher’s ally

a writer’s leaning post

a handyman’s helper

a drop-out’s turning point

a loner’s paradise

a scholar’s foundation.

a Library is a source of pleasure,

a language forte,

a knowledge warehouse,

and a history causeway.

Enjoy yours.

Daily News Headline: What is a Newfoundlander?

Another great honour of which we can boast

A pert, pretty lady who’s from the South Coast

For Allied Youth, nation wide, and in the States

The topmost position of all of them rates.

The new International President is

From town of St. Lawrence a charming young Ms.

The name’s Lorna Pike for a year she will reign

A young Newfoundlander has done it again.

Last year Mary Buckley this honour first won

A credit to those who mix business and fun

Who seem to enjoy their community role

At same time achieving a personal goal.

Daily News Headline: Board of Trade brief to Sullivan inquiry: SHUT DOWN THE RAILWAY!

A joint memo to Premier Moores, et Premier Levesque

We heartily endorse there being a separate Quebec

Regards this province pulling out, some second thought it takes

Instead let’s all move in on them, cash in on their mistakes.

Let’s make a switch, a total one, we’ll let Quebec disband

And set them totally apart, we’ll swap our Newfoundland

For their Quebec; we’ll all move out, lock, stock and barrel, right?

And they can isolate themselves to national delight.

They’ll then be closer to St. Pierre and set up proper trade

Trudeau will be delighted we have a solution made

A wall around Quebec he will be able to avoid

Both he and Rene will be saved being labelled paranoid

In turn we’ll be mainlanders true, and verify their facts

The nation in Vancouver starts and ends in Halifax

A happy nation will we be, and what is even more

We’ll have the geographic claim to all of Labrador.

Daily News Headline: Twenty-five hospitals involved: NURSES CALL GENERAL STRIKE

You don’t need a yaffle

To go to the raffle

Mount Cashel a welcome extends

At this year’s location

There’s much jubilation

When they see supporters and friends

While pre-Christmas shopping

We hope you’ll be stopping

To have a few spins for the boys

North side of Water Street

Is this spirited treat

West of Bowrings you’ll hear all the noise

Ex-pupils devotion

Makes lots of commotion

A loud speaker bids you come in

You’ll hear a bell tinkling

Then you’ll get the inkling

“Unless you give a try, you can’t win”

Daily News Headline: JOB ACTION: WAIT TIL SPRING

Amidst the constant concrete growth

And reinforcing steel

A lonely pine on Water Street

Has its distinct appeal.

Where once there stood the Light and Power

Concrete abutments stand

This pine, uprooting has survived

Under the progress hand

Harbour arterial approach

But on a mound, yet undisturbed

The pine is to be seen

In isolation does it stand

Now almost out of place

As St. John’s West end changes with

Accelerating pace.

Daily News Headline: Fisheries officers testify at fraud trial: REPORTED ABUSES, TOLD TO ‘LAY OFF’

History reveals for us when boo-boos have been made

How will it view in retrospect the current Board of Trade

In Transportation hearings they suggest CN pull out

Abandon rail, and this comes from a group that has some clout.

This type of thought should surely be the one they would avoid

If only for potentially adding to unemployed

But more to this than meets the eye quite strongly I suggest

Not the least suspect of which is vested interest.

Who owns the tractor trailer, trucking firms, container ships

When Board of Trade strong statements make, with facts let’s come to grips

For hundred fifty businesses, on this let’s clear the air

How many, honestly, replied to the Board’s questionnaire

Again eight fifty members claimed, all paid up members too

But what is actually the count expressing such a view.

Will St. John’s Board of Trade reveal the actual percent

Of those who want CN to go, whom do they represent?

Constructively what did it say? Where was local support?

Should they not look for special rates and subsidy exhort

The Board of Trade should adamant on a rail service be

For better rates have views as strong, insist on subsidy.

No bones about it CN rail is livelihood of mine

Tomorrow I would still survive if they took up the line

But Board of Trade to chuck it all and such strong feelings vent

Raises a doubt quite serious on whom they represent.

Was this for Sullivan designed to help achieve a goal

Whoever thought the Board of Trade would play a traitor’s role.

First publication: November 21, 1977

Daily News Headline: For Labrador, Fogo, St. Anthoney: IT COULD BE A ‘SHOCKER’

The mercenary greed of all

Is gaining all too fast

For facts supporting this remark

I cite the weekend past.

A visit here from Santa Claus

Had quite a good intent

But proved to be for many kids

A shattering event.

The push and crush of anxious crowds

Distress to some did cause

But even more distressing

Was the pseudo-Santa Claus

My five-year-old remarked his beard,

His eyebrows (one askew),

His size, the falseness evident,

A “pretend” one, he knew.

This I confirmed as we came out

“When Santa comes to you

You’ll be asleep and won’t see him

But this gives you a clue.”

Now businesses please get a clue

Much more selective be

Get actors, proper make-up don

To give reality

Make Santa Claus more natural

Full face, with proper flush

Invest! Unless he’s credible

You’ll lose your Christmas rush.

Daily News Headline: Here’s good news for consumers!!: POWER HIKE UNLIKELY THIS WINTER

We are reminded through the week

In writing and in speech

To keep all items poisonous

From little kiddies reach

The fingers of the curious

Will every day explore

Thus access to things poisonous

Keep from them all the more

It’s daily education, too

The danger signs to teach

Prevention better than the cure

Let’s keep harm out of reach.

Daily News Headline: Straits tunnel no longer a priority? GULL POWER MAY NEVER COME: JAMIESON

The Christmas Card exchange by mail

Was such a happy thought

Air of excitement in the home

When Christmas Cards were bought

New names were added to the list

Old friends there without fail

One night, or Sunday set aside

For addressing the mail.

The cards were sorted, bunched and stamped

A ritual almost

And it was great when cards came in

Of certain ones to boast.

Even the quantity received

To Christmas added cheer

The Post Office has squelched it all

Card sending is so dear

This great communication form

An industry seemed like

Until Post Office bit by bit

The price of stamps did hike

It would indeed an in-depth look

Authorities behoove

Lest they’re priced out of business

With no mail left to move.

Daily News Headline: Big jump in IOC affiliates’ earnings: PROFITS UP, TAXES A THREAT

I met a man two days ago

His fist was full of cash

Ten years ago it would have meant

Another payday bash

With rearranged priorities

His family is first

No longer does he satiate

His alcoholic thirst

He lives up to the A.A. creed

Encouraging his peers

In positive approach to life

Atones for other years.

His eyes reflect accomplishment

A sense of being aware

Alert to lend a helping hand

He knows he has been there.

Daily News Headline: Province-wide strike called: COURT SAYS ‘NO’ TO NURSES

We realize details, research, and cabinet review

Are background workers House sitting begins

But four months sitting out of twelve when crucial are our needs

Deserves a solid kicking in the shins.

The lull that’s nationally knows is downer number one

And of inflation we are well aware

But just the opportunity to kick it all around

If nothing else, will help us clear the air.

No magic words do we expect, reality accepted

But surely all elected members must

Be big enough to face the issues, talk out pros and cons

Evasiveness engenders a mistrust.

It’s time that those in politics, Government side or else

Integrity displayed, showed some concern

There are a few, we thank you, overall the image bad

An eleven minute sitting, live and learn.

Daily News Headline: All teenagers from St. Lawrence: BUS CRASH KILLS 3 (Seven others in hospital)

People who profess no faith

No matter how it goes

Are plagued with inconsistency

And this is how it shows.

They have a faith in man made things

In car, turn on a key

In doctors display faith to have

An appendectomy.

There’s faith in products that they buy

That they are what they claim

Faith in someone else’s word

They have faith in a name

And when the chips are down, then what

With whom is there rapport

In crisis friends are limited

It’s God who knows the score.

Privacy the truth reveals

Faith isn’t just a word

It then becomes an earnest prayer

“Dear God, I hope you heard.”

Daily News Headline: GEAR FRAUD TRIAL: Fisherman claims he was told to do it

With sympathy and empathy my heart goes out today

To people of St. Lawrence in their loss

Their noble resignation to industrial distress

Is challenged by a triple tragic loss.

The three young teens potentially were leaders in the wings

Already in community involved

Then suddenly by death removed, all aspirations dashed

Another of life’s mysteries unsolved.

The intertwine of life and death we rarely reconcile

Yet procreation gives the life its start

Traumatic the experience when baby leaves the womb

A parallel when souls from life depart.

When those we love have gone from view, a sorrow fills our heart

It blinds us to their earning their reward

But God’s design beyond horizon of our wisdom lies

Three Allied Youth now at rest in the Lord.

Daily News Headline: RCMP PROBE ROONEY AFFAIR (Rooney says it’s not true…)

Divided highway, driving west I took on extra glance

I thought a car in passing lane toward us did advance

And much to my amazement what I hoped was wrong was right

A lady driver passed us, inward – just a little fright.

Had there been a car behind us pass at the time

Then it is quite conceivable you wouldn’t read this rhyme

In sizing up what she had done, and how it came about

I conclude she wasn’t thinking as she from garage pulled out.

If this can happen there’s potential for an accident

Will Highways people check this out, a tragedy prevent

No way should one who’s driving east be in the western lane

You’re lucky lady, so are we, may not be so again.

Daily News Headline: Christmas charity suspect: PRIEST PLUGS UNITED DRIVE

Clowns and bunting, bands and music

Majorettes and floats galore

That is only just an inkling

Of what Sunday has in store

Santa Claus Parade this season

Will be televised this year

CBC will bring the highlights

So that those “at home” may cheer

I look forward to this Sunday

It’s just good to be alive

When you’re waiting to see Santa

With a sparkling boy of five

When the Jaycees have a project

They strive only for the best

That’s your guarantee that this year

It will be a big success.

Daily News Headline: Alcan says “NO” to: $11 million deal for St. Lawrence

Children warmly bundled up

Fathers with shoulders strong

Waited for the big parade

To ease itself along

With Jaycee President in lead

And Mayor Wyatt too

The floats of varying design

Came slowly into view

Between the floats were many clowns

Who go to greatest pains

To do the best job possible

One of them, Angus Caines

For twenty three years he’s been there

From parade number one

Like all concerned participants

Made a day of fun

This year saw much variety

Chipmunks, and elephants

Figure skating characters

And youth from schools of dance

Toyland, workshop, Christmas cards

Flinststones and Honda boys

Wonder Woman, Charlie’s Angels

Reindeer, singers and toys

And many bands all did their thing

Beavers, and Pluto too

And Oscar came from Sesame

And Friendly Giant – whew!

A tall clown, one with a long neck

Mickey and Minnie Mouse

And Goofy, and the star himself

In chimney of a house

Dear Santa Claus called out and waved,

But really what sufficed

Were floats that skillfully portrayed

True meaning – Birth of Christ.

Daily News Headline: Another bad weekend for the law: GUNMAN BLASTS POLICE OFFICE

Of greed, and craft, and cashing in

We always were aware

New things coming to light each day

Show up our disrepair

We’re in a sad and sorry state

Integrity is lost

We do each other at first chance

No matter what the cost

Bigger the role, bigger the deed

Can’t lick them, so we join

For those who still have values left

There’s this side of the coin

At least we’re getting things exposed

Some courage still remains

It’s time that we caught up with those

Who make ill-gotten gains.

Daily News Headline: Minister trapped in submerged car: HE PRAYED… THEN HELP CAME

Safe Driving Week draws to a close

Good timing for a storm I s’pose

With all the hazards that it brings

It makes us more aware of things

Like extra stopping time it takes

For application of the brakes

And an alertness as we ride

Snowballs may come from any side

A signal that kids are around

For where a bit of snow is found

There’s fun, and healthy outdoor play

And the odd one that gets away

It’s caution time, later afternoon

You can’t turn on your lights too soon

And when it’s drifting, extra care

Making pedestrians aware

For other drivers signals use

Your right of way do not abuse

No great big deal, nothing unique

Let’s make each a Safe Driving Week.

Daily News Headline: Fishery gear trial lasts 15 days: QUINLAN ACQUITTED OF FRAUD

It’s now a quite established fact

Our own police are being attacked

Quite serious the current plight

We need more Magistrates like White

Who, on the bench, well filled the bill

When stationed out in Stephenville

A firm and enforced law we need

To force some people to pay heed

To have our self, and property

As well protected as can be

To see that men who enforce law

Are not being pushed to the last straw

For if policemen take abuse

Some day they’ll just say what’s the use

And throw their hands up in despair

Unless we all show that we care

Our legislators first of all

Have got to show they’re on the ball

And show some strength and statements make

This kind of crime they will not take

All citizens these actions scorn

Of such are vigilantes born

Self-preservation it will be

If justice is a mockery

And that is how it now appears

It’s time to open eyes and ears.

Daily News Headline: (No false hope: Mines still closing) ALCAN OFFERS $1/YEAR LEASE

Facilities are in demand

With Christmas party time at hand

And office parties under way

Bring out spirit of holiday

An observation made this year

In handling of the Christmas Cheer

More caution there appears to be

From those all out to have a spree

The one who’s feeling in the pink

And wants to get that extra drink

Is more aware to stay alive

One simply cannot drink and drive

A good approach, the only one

It’s good to have a bit of fun

But better still to have a ball

Without abusing alcohol

For many Christmases have been

Too often quite an ugly scene

For those who just get out of touch

By elbow-bending wee too much

Daily News Headline: Turns back strong Conservative bid: ROWE WINS TWILLINGATE

The panic button is being pressed

At slightest hint of snow

Commuters on their daily treks

Reluctant are to go.

The morning air waves with the news

Of adverse weather filled

School children dangling on the word

If school closed, to be thrilled.

The winter hasn’t set in yet

We’re still below the norm

But if we panic at this stage

How will we fare in storm.

If I were living out of town

And heeded radio

I’d be afraid to risk the drive

Whenever there was snow.

Caution: yes, safe-driving: right,

With “Wolf, Wolf” story it brings back

Recall that little boy?

Daily News Headline: In Churchill Falls, Labrador: PLANE CRASH KILLS 8

Dear Santa:

I am growing old

My husband dead a year

My family has gone away

I drop a silent tear.

My letter is a ‘thank you’ one

For all the friendly folk

Who make a point to say hello

Or swap a little joke.

I’m in a home this year, you know,

My own too hard to keep

And now that I’ve resigned myself

I do enjoy my sleep.

In company of friends my age

Acquaintances renewed

I do enjoy the visitors

With spirit so embued

Who come along in groups and sing

Or dance or give a laugh

So thoughtful, some of them so young,

And then there is our staff,

Considerate and courteous.

Oh, Santa, I’ll confess

I’m asking something after all—

Their peace and happiness.

Daily News Headline: They are SERIOUS about raising the TITANIC

Dear Santa:

You remember me

You brought a wind-up train

When I was just a little boy

Well, now, I’m back again

It wasn’t an electric train

It whistled and made noise

And I was very proud of that

One of my special toys

A real railroader now am I

And something isn’t right

If you would drop by Christmas Eve

It would be my delight

Some people are picking on me

Oh, Santa, it’s a strain

Big people talking serious

They’re goin’ to take my train

Now, Santa, I can only ask

Don’t let them do this thing

Please bring them all a change of heart

When they, the carols sing.

Daily News Headline: An increasing trend in St. John’s: VIOLENCE IN RAPE

Dear Santa:

I’m a Rehab, boy

I’m not asking for much

It’s a taking me a little while

To get used to my crutch.

I would like some more paint sets please

I like the paints that glow

And Santa could you also bring

A C.B. radio

That would be lots of company

Since I can’t play outside

Although I’m looking forward to

Going on a sleigh ride

I hope there’s lots of snow for you

For your reindeer, I mean

Today I got a Christmas card

That has this Christmas scene

Of you, and your reindeer in flight

I’m all excited now

I just can’t wait for Christmas Eve

Guess I’ll have to, somehow.

Daily News Headline: Almost two years behind schedule: GENERAL HOSPITAL MOVES IN MAY

Dear Santa:

I’m a clergyman

As long as I’m on earth

I’ll preach with all sincerity

The message of Christ’s birth

But yet I have my thoughts of you

And they do not conflict

You are a spirit in our midst

Whom we cannot predict.

You have a sense of timeliness

A magic touch you bring

That adds to our festivity

As Christmas songs we sing.

Christ’s purity and innocence

Whose presence brings us peace

Brings out the best in all of us

And may it never cease.

Your image is a special one

And I like it because

I believe in the things you do

And in you, Santa Claus.

Daily News Headline: Newfoundland gets $7.9 million for jobs

A snowfall on a Sunday morn

Flakes drifting lazily

Before it took on form of storm

Was beautiful to see.

The hillside far, and trees nearby

A freshened look betook

Of such scenes are made Christmas cards

Or drawings in a book.

The whiteness conjures up a scene

Of sleighs and bells and mirth

And has a pure and spotless look

Befitting Jesus’ birth.

Daily News Headline: Not much chance of a green Xmas: STORM HAMMERS EAST

The setting on the stage was right

The audience intent

So colourful the pageantry

Portraying each event

The shepherds tending flocks in field

The wise men from the east

The greatest man who ever lived

Was greeted as the least

We saw the stable where he lay

We heard the angels sing

Gold, frankincense, and myrrh were brought

Presented by each King

The scene was quite a touching one

But had a modern twist

St. Joseph, while he looked the part

Had a watch on his wrist.

Daily News Headline: Licence fees for foreign trawlers: PAY TO FISH IN ‘78

This is preparation time

With Christmas in the wings

On best behaviour children are

To see what Santa brings.

This is a preparation time

Some people are distraught

Rushing around on present hunts

Hoping everything’s bought

This is a preparation time

What does it really mean?

As Advent now draws to a close

We ‘wait the manger scene.

This is a preparation time

The message is for real

Love God and love each other

Through a baby the appeal.

Daily News Headline: Nobody knows much about it, but: THE QUEEN WANTS TO COME TO NEWFOUNDLAND

As angel on a Christmas tree

A special thrill it is for me

To look around a room so bright

And watch the faces of delight

As bright-eyed kids their stockings hang

A spirited and happy gang

And then to see on Christmas morn

The day our Saviour, Christ, was born

The little darlings in bare feet

Faces alight with Santa’s treat

Each toy and game and fancy thing

That only Santa Claus can bring

I share the laughter and the fun

The songs, chatter of everyone

When there are parties it’s a treat

To see, in friendship, people meet

When party-goers tired have grown

I’m perched atop my tree alone

In silence, aftermath of mirth

I think about the Saviour’s birth

And since I cannot tell a fib,

I wish that there had been a crib

However small, that all might see

It isn’t just the Christmas tree

Or gifts, or presents, that’s all right

But as an angel of the light

My radiance I do employ

To bring to all a gift of joy

In celebrating Jesus’ birth

Good will to all, and peace on earth.

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May all your friends, your family

Rejoice around your Christmas tree

May Santa Claus to children small

Be generous to one and all.

With snow, and music in the air

We wish you all in Christmas prayer

The gifts of peace and joy and love

Abundant blessings from above.

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A little “Thank you, Santa Claus

For like the girls and boys

I too enjoy each Christmas morn

And all the lovely toys

Ah, you’re a great guy, Santa Claus

Your years made you astute

If you’ve run out of certain toys

You always substitute

I know with all the boys and girls

You visit Christmas Eve

You simply are magnificent

To know just what to leave

Oh, I’m an adult, Santa Claus

I cherish each surprise

That brightens up a sibling’s face,

I look with misty eyes.

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Did Captain Jack our Weatherman

Think we would all forget

I have to say the forecast made

Turned out to be all wet.

The Christmas white he promised us

Just didn’t turn out so

Precipitation, lots of it

In form of rain, not snow.

That’s how the cookie crumbles, sir

When such a role you choose

You win a lot of them, no doubt

But some you have to lose.

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“Joy to the world and peace on earth

Rejoice with us in Jesus’ birth”

The scene of the Nativity speaks thus

Through hypocritic circumstance

Yet yards away abortions score a plus.

On Friday past beyond that door

There were, in all, abortions four

Each human to Christ’s image, likeness made

Had a chance to life made null and void

Within the mother’s womb destroyed

Real murder that put Herod in the shade

Doctors who fatal acts perform

And now regard it as a norm

Could have destroyed our Saviour, were he due

There wouldn’t be a Christmas morn

How could they prevent Christ being born

How Christian are you? Does it bother you?

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