Le Football

Cameron, the referendum, and London 2012

2012-01-09T09:42:00.001-06:00

The British Prime Minister David Cameron has reacted to plans of an independence referendum in Scotland planned by the First Minister Alex Salmond and his government.

Speaking to the BBC's Andrew Marr, Cameron said that clarity was needed on the referendum. "I think it's very unfair on the Scottish people themselves who don't really know when this question is going to be asked, what the question is going to be, who's responsible for asking it," Cameron said. "And I think we owe the Scottish people something that is fair, legal and decisive."

However, a report from the British newspaper The Guardian suggests that Cameron placed an 18 month timetable for the referendum to be held. A spokesman for Cameron declined to comment on the referendum, but said that proceedings would be worked out this week for a fair solution so the situation can be resolved in the near future.

Meanwhile, Cameron and the coalition cabinet held its meeting at the site of the London 2012 Olympics today, as it marks 200 days towards the beginning of the Olympics. The spokesman added that the UK-wide connection to London 2012 was important, as today was a handover to the organizing authority, as the engagement of citizens and businesses were essential.

Cameron said in his New Year speech that the UK will "go for it in 2012."

Perspectives on the year just gone

2011-12-30T20:42:00.000-06:00

NOTE: Views expressed are my own.

In a few hours from now, the world will begin to celebrate the departure of 2011 and welcome 2012. Yet as 2012 comes in and 2011 bows out, there is an overwhelming consensus that this year has been significant. Shortly before he died this year after a battle with cancer, the leader of Canada's New Democratic Party, Jack Layton, wrote an open letter to Canadians that ended with what arguably will be a famous quote of the year.

"My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we'll change the world." Many events this year had been connected by this quote.

Events in the Middle East now known as the Arab Spring changed leaderships and saw millions of voices stand up for rights to democracy and a change to current circumstances. Those in the countries impacted were optimistic and hopeful for a better future as the old leadership came to an end. As 2012 comes in, how the transition to new leadership will have many fascinating aspects to follow. Additionally, present events in Syria will also be interesting to follow, as those in the country are too optimistic for a better future.

The crisis in Europe surrounding the euro tested the financial and political capabilities of not only the continent but indeed the world, as fears of continual recession loomed. The people in Europe were optimistic of a future after the crisis yet expressed concern about what life would be like if the euro had to be removed. Austerity protests waved across the continent as people demanded answers to many questions.

Rupert and James Murdoch testified before the British Parliament in London as phone hacking allegations came to light against News Corporation and the now-defunct News of the World publication. An inquiry into the British press known as the Leveson Inquiry has launched, in addition to work looking into the phone hacking. Additionally, riots took hold of London and several other cities across England in August, while David Cameron and Nick Clegg face pressure within the coalition, which will lead to a fascinating year at Westminster.

In the United States, Occupy protests (beginning in New York and going global) saw more asking what next. Those who protested looked forward to answers to their objectives. Meanwhile, preparations were underway for the campaign for elections due to take place in the year to come.

In Japan, the tsunami and earthquake that struck the country's North East coast last March saw how people could come together. Aid came in from many organizations, including the Red Cross in the country and around the world through individual donations and aid, along with a commitment to prosperity by the Japanese people that stayed with them which has aided their recovery. In Australia and New Zealand, earthquakes and cyclones made way through essential parts of the country, and they too worked to make their countries better as they recovered.

In Canada, Stephen Harper's Conservative party achieved its first majority government with the NDP for the first time becoming official opposition in the country's Parliament, while the Canadian province of Nova Scotia's bid for shipbuilding saw 30 years worth of jobs created, the Canadian Wheat Board dismantled and riots take place after the Vancouver Canucks' loss to the Boston Bruins in last year's Stanley Cup.

Next year will bring elections in France and the U.S., the London Olympics, and more developments around the world. It'll be exciting, and I'll be here to help you understand it.

I return to Layton's quote as I end this piece: "My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we'll change the world." We all know what a significant year this has been, but when we love, are hopeful and are optimistic, the world can change.

May I wish you, those you care about, and everyone around the world a Happy New Year. So long 2011 and bring on an exciting, joyous, happy and prosperous 2012 for all!

In New York, New Year's Eve is a tradition

2011-12-29T23:30:00.005-06:00

UPDATED: December 30 2011 06:14 GMT

Every New Year's Eve those who flock to Times Square in the American city of New York take in a great opportunity to bid farewell to the year that was and welcome the year it will be. It becomes, according to George Fertitta, the "Crossroads of the World".

"[It] becomes the focal point for millions of viewers across the globe," said Fertitta, the CEO of NYC and Company, which oversees New York's marketing, tourism and partnership work, in a press release. "On New Year’s Eve, the five boroughs come alive with celebrations, and we encourage New Yorkers and visitors alike to bid farewell to 2011 and welcome 2012 in New York City."

The ball drop, which for many has represented the transition of years for over a century, sees according to NYC and Company more than 100 million viewers in the U.S. and over a billion internationally.

For New Yorkers like journalist Callie Schweitzer, there is a preserved tradition in the hometown festivities of December 31st. "To me, it's symbolic of the place I grew up and the amazing number of people it brings together," Schweitzer said. "I think everyone wants to be a part of something that is this well known."

The tradition therefore proudly continues, as it has been since 1904 and with the first ball drop in 1907, having many ways to celebrate, whether on television or in person.

UNSW research examines Australian hospitality

2011-12-22T18:03:00.000-06:00

Researchers at the University of New South Wales in Australia have published a study indicating that the country's citizens may not be as hospitable as the international community perceives.

The study, led by the university's Social Policy Research Centre, indicates that if Americans had lived like Australians, they would be less happy. Americans, the study said according to an article from the Sydney Morning Herald, entertain at home more. Australians, the study's lead author Dr. Roger Patulny told the Herald, liked the company of others in public spaces. "But we don't invite people into our homes the same way Americans do," Patulny added. "At home we like to be with our nuclear family."

Sarah Ayoub Christie, a freelance writer and an editor at the Aphrodite Chase blog based in Sydney, says that some Australians aren't fans of formal get togethers, but more informal events. "The 'pub culture' is very strong here in Australia, so we show our hospitality in other ways," Christie said. "We may not have friends over for dinner every week, but we're always happy to shout rounds of drinks on the pub, and to us, that's a very similar thing that is more specific and authentic with our way of life."

Yet, in Christie's case, she grew up in a household with at least one dinner party every week. "That dinner (usually a BBQ) was not just restricted to family and friends but to new friends and associates and colleagues of my parents, people from the local council and more," Christie added. "For some ethnic cultures, hosting people for dinner is very important, and some people/families/groups are more social than others."

Christie adds that this study won't change the perception given of Australians, especially by Americans, and added that this study raises some questions. "This was by no means a scientific study so the likelihood of it reflecting an accurate proportion and type of the Australian population is questionable," Christie said. "This is because Australia is obviously made up of ethnically diverse people."

Gary Speed: more than a footballer

2011-11-27T15:18:00.000-06:00

Gary Speed, the manager of the Welsh football team and one of the Premier League's best players, died today at the age of 42 at his home in Chester, England.

Speed reached 500 performances in the Premier League and 85 caps for the UK, according to a report from the BBC. Yet, Speed was more than just a footballer. He was cherished, admired and adored for the talent and qualities he had as a human being. "He had so much to offer as a person and as a sportsman," said Howard Wilkinson, Speed's manager during his time at Leeds from 1988 to 1996 in an interview with BBC Radio 5 live. "Gary had a lot of talent and that talent became his job. Footballers are subject to all the stress and strains of things that happen in life. He had a life of success to look forward to."

He started at Leeds, then onto Everton, Bolton and Sheffield United. He retired from playing last year and became Sheffield United's manager thereafter, eventually becoming the manager of the Wales football team.

"He leaves a huge hole in football. He seemed to have everything in front of him, two boys he loved, physical fitness and, at just 42, a promising future as manager of Wales," wrote Dan Walker on his blog. "But, Gary Speed is gone and I miss him."

It's coming...

2011-11-06T14:30:00.000-06:00

Apologies for the lack of posting of late but I have good news!

Posts to this blog will be resuming soon. Looking into a heap of stories for your reading pleasure. In addition, my Facebook page now has a simplified URL! Click here to "like" me and you can follow me on Twitter too. Feel free to say hello!

So stand by...the posts are coming!

Why the BBC World Service is important to me

2011-10-23T19:27:00.000-05:00

And now, a personal story that continues through what I do outside this blog--being a university student.

At just before 6 a.m. on a cold day in early 2010 my phone rang. I answered. “Hi, is this Alex?” a woman asked. The call was from London, specifically the BBC World Service. A producer named Alicia called as I was invited to participate in an editorial meeting for their “World Have Your Say” program, a global discussion show which focuses on a variety of issues important to the BBC’s global audience. Guided by editor Mark Sandell, presenter Ros Atkins and a number of brilliant producers, it has become an example of how important the World Service is as an organization.

My history with the World Service however goes beyond that hour-long call. A year earlier, I began to recover from a significant illness which had me finishing high school from home. Insomnia was a side effect and to keep myself sane I one night found the World Service out of the blue on WBEZ 91.5 FM, Chicago’s NPR station. After that night, I was hooked. Their dedication to journalism and making that truly global connection stood out amongst the competitors. I understood the world around me better than I would through most American news outlets.

I listened night after night with the volume down in my room, eagerly wondering what they would be covering. Public broadcasting, especially the World Service, became one of the many comforts I had while I was sick. Many hours after the World Have Your Say meeting, I told my mom about it and how great an experience it was. I then told her I wanted to study journalism. What they do is part of the reason why I do what I do today.

Now, because of the economic downturn, the World Service that I’ve come to champion is changing. On January 26^th, because of a cut in its funding from the British government’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the World Service announced closures of five language services encompassing a significant loss of staff. I was shocked and appalled. The Foreign Secretary William Hague (who oversaw the World Service’s funding from the government) neglected one of the UK’s most loved and profound institutions. Additionally, in 2014, the World Service will be funded wholly by the BBC license fee, used to fund its domestic UK operations. I sincerely hope more cuts aren’t made.

After I recovered from my illness and began at university, I continued to listen to the World Service. In fact, I still do proudly to this very day. I’m also proud to say I know some World Service staff and call them my friends. The work that Ros, Mark, Alicia and all who work there goes beyond journalism. They’ve made a difference in many a person, as they have with me. I hope, for them, for me and for their many listeners, that they’re able to continue their fine work because it provides a great comfort to know the global sounds from London’s Bush House are never far away.

Opinion: Words to live by from Steve Jobs

2011-10-06T23:15:00.001-05:00

Steve Jobs, the co-founder and CEO of Apple, died Wednesday at the age of 56. Known for his skill, intellect, and creativity in the technological world, Jobs also spoke, most famously at the commencement address at Stanford University. He said this, which are (I think) words to live by:

"Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking until you find it. Don’t settle."

CBC very much relevant at 75

2011-08-27T22:03:00.000-05:00

When Kirstine Stewart, the Executive Vice President of English Services for Canada's public broadcaster CBC launched special programming to commemorate the broadcaster's 75th birthday, she put a special emphasis on the relationship between the broadcaster and the Canadian people.

"[The programming] is a gift back to Canadians," Stewart told the country's National Post newspaper in an interview August 17th, adding that the CBC wants to tell the stories of Canadians. Yet, in 75 years, the CBC has been able to do more than tell stories of Canadians. The CBC has been able to open the door to understanding Canada, which has presented benefit to the United States, a crowning achievement for one of the world's best broadcasters.

When former President Bill Clinton came to Ottawa in 1995, he addressed the House of Commons and mentioned the CBC by name. He said the horizons of the American people had been broadened by the work they do. The horizons are still broadened today, as we continue to look to the CBC and its staff from coast to coast to coast, to help us understand the cities and communities of Canada.

Clinton added that Americans are still learning about Canada's culture and traditions every day. The CBC, as it did in 1995 and I'm sure today, has very much to do with that.

In an age where public broadcasters have faced economic cuts that have threatened the model, a global debate about the place of the public broadcaster has begun. The CBC is one of the few broadcasters that has been able to truly connect to the people of not only Canada, but its southern neighbor and the rest of the world. The CBC, because of that core achievement, is necessary now more than ever, as indeed it was in 1936, in order to ensure the cultural trust of the United States-Canada relationship is forever preserved.

The United States and Canada are more than just neighbors. We are very good friends, and the CBC has had a hand in seeing that. I hope, from now through November 2nd, and for many years thereafter, that will continue.

NOTE: Information on the CBC's 75th anniversary celebrations are located here: http://cbc.radiocanada.ca/newsreleases/20110818.shtml
NOTE-2: The views expressed above are my own.

Opinion: Layton's legacy continues with us

2011-08-27T22:00:00.000-05:00

NOTE: The views expressed below are the person's specific views.

The line at Parliament Hill in Canada's capital Ottawa circled around the block. Canadians were mourning one of their respected leaders in Parliament, the leader of the New Democratic Party, Jack Layton.

Layton, who died August 22nd after an execrable battle with cancer, was more than a mere politician in the eyes of Canadians. He cared about his country, its people, and the ability to serve the public, trying every second of every day to understand the viewpoint of Canadians. His charisma, optimism, and pride were ubiquitous in a country tolerant of a multicultural society.

Jessica Turner was one of those who waited. "People came from everywhere," Turner said, signifying the large amount of respect Canadians had for Layton. In the country's election in May, Layton led the NDP to the Official Opposition for the first time in the party's history with 103 seats. Canada was the country he loved, and he felt it necessary to help it be better, in spite of his recent hip surgery.

Then, in July, Layton's cancer returned anew, and announced he would take a leave of absence from the House of Commons. He would be ready to help preserve the future of the country and its people by the time Parliament resumed in mid-September. "I will beat this new cancer," Layton vowed. "I will be back in the House of Commons to defend the values and priorities of Canadian families."

Layton's passion stayed with him until the very end. A few hours after he died, his family released a letter he wrote, which was encouraging as any speech he gave. He encouraged those battling cancer to keep faith. "Please don't be discouraged that my own journey hasn't gone as well as I had hoped," Layton wrote. "Treatments and therapies have never been better in the face of this disease. You have every reason to be optimistic, determined, and focused on the future."

He wrote to Quebeckers, who led the surge of support for the NDP, letting them know their decision was still the right one. He told young people to keep going and never lose your passion. "I believe in you," he wrote. "Your energy, your vision, your passion for justice are exactly what this country needs today. You need to be at the heart of our economy, our political life, and our plans for the present and the future."

Yet, the last paragraph was the symbol of hope. Regardless of who you are or your beliefs, this mere paragraph epitomizes what we as human beings can become. "My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful, and optimistic. And we"ll change the world."

Regardless of the border that splits Canada and the United States, we can be better people. We can understand each other through culture, civility, opportunity, and acceptance. We can do this together. This was Jack Layton's legacy. It started with him, and it can continue with you.

Editor's note: On hiatus

2011-07-19T21:58:00.000-05:00

Le Football is going to be quiet for the next couple of weeks because of other work that has come up. But not to worry, things will be back to normal soon.

Obama endorses, House votes

2011-07-19T20:14:00.000-05:00

The US president Barack Obama has endorsed a plan by a group of 6 senators, 3 Democrats and 3 Republicans, that would help budget reduction efforts and includes increases in revenue and cuts in spending. The plan shares the approach he urged, according to a report from National Public Radio.

This comes as the battle to raise the country's debt ceiling approaches late stages, as the August 2nd deadline of possible default fast approaches. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives passed legislation titled the Cut, Cap, and Balance Act of 2011, which intends to make an amendment to the country's constitution requiring a balanced budget, and making federal spending only 24% of the Gross Domestic product, and no more, according to NPR.

This however is to fail in the Senate because the Democrats still retain the majority in the chamber, and the White House has said on record that the legislation will be vetoed if it reaches President Obama's desk.

Evidence Day for Murdochs

2011-07-19T19:54:00.001-05:00

UPDATED July 19 2011 8:17pm CT

Rupert and James Murdoch appeared before the committee of Culture, Media, and Sport at the House of Commons in London today to speak about the phone hacking scandal that has engulfed News Corporation, most notably News International, its businesses in Britain.

Rupert Murdoch began the hearing by saying that this was the most humble day of his life. He had prepared a statement, but the chairman of the committee, the Conservative MP John Whittingdale, denied him the opportunity to read it. As he testified, he said that he was misled by members of his staff, saying he had not been in touch with most of his editors. But, he denied the responsibility of the hacking, according to a BBC report, however said when he heard of the case concerning schoolgirl Milly Dowler, he was appalled, shocked, and ashamed. Murdoch also added that he was unaware of allegations that his company had hacked into mobile phones of the September 11th terrorist attacks in the United States.

James Murdoch apologized and reiterated the sincere regret the whole company had with the scandal, saying it was not the standards that were set, and added that settlements for phone hacking had been approved by him, but, according to the UK newspaper the Guardian, his father had not been informed until information until these cases were reported on in 2009. The hearing culminated with a protester attacking Rupert Murdoch with a shaving cream pie.

Additionally, the former head of News International, Rebekah Brooks, also testified today, saying that her company understood how serious the accusations were when a case involving actress Sienna Miller surfaced, according to a BBC report, adding that she thinks the company acted quickly when it came to those allegations. But, Brooks said that she had regretted the scandal and felt, according to a report from the UK newspaper The Independent, she was a distraction to the work News International was set out to do.

Meanwhile, the Guardian is reporting that a committee in Parliament found that News Corporation's UK division News International blocked an investigation by the Metropolitan Police in London.

British Prime Minister David Cameron cut short his trip to Africa and is returning to London to respond to the scandal, and to the allegations against him regarding Andy Coulson, his former communications director, who served as a News of the World editor as phone hacking occurred.

News Corporation's stock ended the trading day in New York up 6 percent, and the company's board has said that it stands by the Murdochs and the management team, according to The Independent.

BBC Radio 5 live wants travel reporters

2011-07-18T13:37:00.000-05:00

BBC Radio 5 live is looking for people to become travel reporters. This comes as they prepare to move to MediaCity UK based in Salford, in the north of England.

Candidates need three minutes of audio that is an example of a travel report and "examples of personality, warmth, and a conversational style" that fits the station, according to the press release.

The deadline is 6pm UK time on Friday, July 29th. Further details can be found here.

Le Review: French Lessons

2011-07-15T15:49:00.000-05:00

EDITOR'S NOTE: A reader contributed to this review.

Ellen Sussman's novel French Lessons is a unique novel.

Not only does it provide a rich vocabulary, but a vivid picture of Paris. The way the chapters are broken up, providing a section for each student and tutor, along with before and after segments for the instructors, makes the novel seem like a collection of short stories. Unlike a collection of short stories however, "French Lessons" shows a tighter bond with the chapters that does better justice.

Having multiple stories occur in one day is also a rare treat. Usually, novels provide a single storyline, as opposed to multiple experiences. Purely romantic, "French Lessons" is the perfect summer reading and for those yearning to see a different side of Paris, one beyond the itinerary of group tours.

Pull up a chair and take a close look at these Parisian adventures.

Rebekah Brooks has resigned

2011-07-15T14:42:00.001-05:00

UPDATED July 15 2011 3:20pm CT

It's been confirmed that Les Hinton, the head of Dow Jones, publisher of the Wall Street Journal, who was executive chairman of News International as the phone-hacking occurred, has also resigned.

ORIGINAL POST (July 15 2011 2:42pm CT)
The UK newspaper the Guardian is reporting that Rebekah Brooks, the chief of News International, the newspaper company in the UK recovering from the phone-hacking scandal that led to the closure of the News of the World, has resigned.

"As chief executive of the company, I feel a deep sense of responsibility for the people we have hurt and I want to reiterate how sorry I am for what we now know to have taken place," Brooks said according to the Guardian. "I have believed that the right and responsible action has been to lead us through the heat of the crisis. However my desire to remain on the bridge has made me a focal point of the debate." Brooks added that she wanted to clear her name and that of News International.

The company is to run apology advertisements across UK newspapers over the weekend.

Halifax Mobile Library extended through Spring

2011-07-15T14:34:00.000-05:00

The Mobile Library Service of the Halifax Public Libraries in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia has been extended until the end of Halifax's fiscal year, March 31st of 2012. The Halifax Regional Municipality has agreed to fund half of the service, which costs CDN$290,000 a year to operate (US$303,885), with the other half coming from the Library Board.

"Many residents are attached to the mobile service, and it is with some regret that we are forced to end it," said Susan McLean, the director of public services at the public libraries, in a statement to Le Football. "However, in an age of rising fuel costs and changing community needs, the mobile is no longer effective in meeting many communities' demands for service." McLean added that a review of the service noted the service's decline in usage within the past several years, with 1.3% of the 4.9 million circulated materials to the libraries coming from the Mobile Library.

"Our research shows that [residents] use branches more than they use the mobile service, which may be because branch libraries provide a better range of services to meet their needs and the needs of their communities," McLean says. "Branch libraries offer larger collections, access to computer, meeting rooms, programs, and special services such as literacy and English language tutoring."

McLean adds that alternative services, such as Books by Mail, digital downloads, and on-line information, are also available in addition to the full branches, but the discontinuing of the mobile library service does not itself impact the library's relevance. "Lbraries have become community spaces where people go for more than just the books," McLean says. "Our customers use the libraries to spend time with their families, attend programs, use technology and connect with others in he community."

"Libraries will never be irrelevant, they will just continue to improve, to change and develop as the communities using the library change and develop."

BBC faces strikes from NUJ

2011-07-15T00:50:00.002-05:00

UPDATED July 15 2011 2:31am CT

It's been announced that the BBC World Service's English network is running news summaries at 5 minutes at top of the hour and summaries lasting 2 minutes at the bottom of the hour. Speech, drama, comedy, and current affairs network BBC Radio 4 has had some schedule changes. The BBC's main television network in the UK is running its Breakfast program as normal without breaks for regional news. Updates will be posted on this page.

ORIGINAL POST (July 15 2011 12:50am CT):
The National Union of Journalists in the UK began industrial action today over termination of positions at the BBC World Service and BBC Monitoring, causing a disruption in the BBC's services in the UK and internationally.

"BBC senior management has shown no real interest in negotiations," says Michelle Sainstreet, the General Secretary of the NUJ, in a release. "The massive vote for strike action by journalists across the BBC reflected their fear for the future as well as their solidarity with colleagues already being targeted and singled out for the sack."

In a statement, the BBC said that they were disappointed with the actions taken. "Industrial action does not alter the fact that the BBC is faced with a number of potential compulsory redundancies following significant cuts to the central Government grants that support the World Service and BBC Monitoring," the statement says on the BBC's web site. "We will continue with our efforts to reduce the need for compulsory redundancies, however, the number of posts that we are having to close means that unfortunately it is likely to be impossible for us to avoid some compulsory redundancies."

Public Broadcasting Service receives Emmy nods

2011-07-15T00:11:00.000-05:00

The US public broadcaster PBS has received 43 nominations for the Primetime Emmy Awards, the prestigious television awards in the States, as the nominations were announced today.

The bulk of the nominations came for the Masterpiece series, which airs adaptations of novels, past and present, in addition to mystery series based on detectives like Robbie Lewis, Hercule Poirot, and Jane Marple. Nominations were also for the American Masters, Antiques Roadshow, POV, Pioneers of Television, American Experience, and Great Performances programs.

Ken Burns' The Tenth Inning was also nominated.

BBC journalist Urunboy Usmonov is out of prison

2011-07-14T12:43:00.000-05:00

The BBC journalist Urunboy Usmonov has been released on bail from custody, it was announced in a statement from the World Service today.

In the statement, the World Service said that they were delighted that Usmonov had been released. His son picked him up from the jail in Khojand and is at home, the statement says. The statement adds that Usmonov is tired but very happy. "As we have said all along we believe Urunboy is innocent and all he was doing was his journalistic work for the BBC," says Peter Horrocks, the BBC's Global News director, in the statement.

Usmonov was detained last month on charges of associating with a banned religious group in Tajikistan. The case against Usmonov will be going ahead, and as a result, he will not be allowed to leave the country.

Audience decrease for BBC World Service

2011-07-14T02:04:00.000-05:00

The BBC World Service announced Tuesday that its audience reach has dropped from 180 million to 166 million, citing the cuts indicated in the UK Spending Review of last October. Yet, there were increases in on-line (up 40%), and an increase in audience to the English network, particularly in the United States (ten million), with a total audience reach of 43 million. Audience reach in the UK is also expanding.

"We've had to make considerable changes to the World Service over the past year due to the cut in our funding from the Government and this was always going to result in a drop in our audience figures," said Peter Horrocks, the director of the BBC's Global News division, in a press release, but added that he was encouraged by the increase in areas. "The strong international journalism from the World Service, particularly during the Arab Spring, has been a key part of the significant increases for online, English radio and Arabic television," Horrocks said.

Horrocks added that the World Service will continue to establish the "best fit" for audiences across all its platforms.

Heritage Dept: Government still committed to CBC

2011-07-13T13:34:00.002-05:00

UPDATED July 13 2011 1:37pm CT

The Canadian government remains committed to the funding of CBC and its French counterpart Radio-Canada, according to an e-mailed statement to Le Football from the Department of Canadian Heritage obtained today. The statement added though that the corporation is expected to utilize funding in the most efficient ways possible.

"According to the 2011-2012 Main Estimates, the federal government will invest 1.07 billion dollars in CBC/Radio-Canada, thus confirming the considerable investment made by Canadian taxpayers in national public broadcasting," the statement reads. When asked about the 2012 funding, one of the primary reasons why the CRTC application for CBC's licenses was delayed, the statement says that annual budgets are submitted to the country's Parliament for review, so there is nothing set in stone for that point, but the budget for the 2012-13 fiscal year is expected early in 2012.

The Department for Canadian Heritage oversees CBC and Radio-Canada for the Canadian government.

What to do in an algae bloom

2011-07-12T13:38:00.000-05:00

The Public Health division in the American state of Oregon is advising members of the public to exercise caution after an increase of blue-green algae in the Willow Creek Reservoir based in Morrow County, in the eastern part of the state. The agency has issued an advisory after it was reported to the agency.

This is algae bloom season in the Pacific Northwest state, and the division is asking members of the public to be cautious of their activities near the Reservoir. Bonnie Widerburg of the Public Health division says that any exposure to the skin can cause a rash, and any consumption of the contaminated water could cause gastro-intestinal issues (nausea, diarrhea). Widerburg adds that the public should avoid contact with the water in addition to drinking it.

Children and animals also need to be cautious of the increase of algae.

Boehner responds to Obama

2011-07-11T16:59:00.000-05:00

The US House speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) held a press conference before debt ceiling negotiations Monday.

"I agree with the president that the national debt limit must be raised, and I’m glad that he made the case for it today," Boehner told the press in the US capital Washington DC. "But the American people will not accept, and the House cannot pass, a bill that raises taxes on job creators." Boehner added that the Republicans do not agree with higher taxes on those who create jobs, and added that the House won't pass any legislation to that extent, according to a report from National Public Radio.

Boehner added that Democrats are not serious "on fundamental reform" and always insist on raising taxes.

Negotiations ended Monday afternoon at the White House, resuming tomorrow.

Obama: There will be an agreement

2011-07-11T14:48:00.002-05:00

UPDATED TO MODIFY TECHNICAL ERROR July 11 2011 2:50pm CT

"If not now, when?"

That is the question US President Barack Obama asked of US House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) and the Republicans in a news conference today on debt ceiling at the White House.

Negotiations between President Obama and congressional leaders broke down on Sunday with talks to resume today. "We're going to meet every single day until we get this thing resolved," Obama said, according to National Public Radio. "I will not sign a 30-day or 60-day or 90-day extension. We don't manage our affairs in three-month increments."

Obama added that if it is "my way or the highway", "then we're probably not going to get something done."

At this hour meetings are taking place.

And that was that

2011-07-10T15:48:00.000-05:00

With a grateful nation behind them, Prince William and Kate Middleton departed Calgary, in the Canadian province of Alberta, ending their tour of the country which began on June 30th.

The tour took them through Ottawa, the country's capital, through Quebec in the east, to Prince Edward Island in the Atlantic, to the Northwest Territories and to the western province of Alberta. But, the highlight came during their visit to Alberta, specifically to Calgary, as the historic Stampede was in full swing. Celebrations were immediate as the couple took part in the Stampede's key events.

"Without a doubt, the Royal Couple's visit to Alberta was an overwhelming success," says Tom Neufeld of the Government of Alberta. "From watching cowboys ride bulls at a rodeo, to their uplifting tour of the fire-ravaged town of Slave Lake, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge won the admiration of Albertans, and many across the globe."

Neufeld adds that this visit helped strengthen the relationship between the couple and the province. "Albertans are very proud of the fact that the Royal Couple chose Canada and Alberta as the destination of their first international tour as a married couple. We look forward to welcoming them back soon."

The royal visit brought many born-again monarchists, amidst concern in Quebec of protests, and a promise from Prince William that they will return.

Insight on the Polaris Prize

2011-07-09T22:58:00.000-05:00

The short list for the Polaris Prize, Canada's music award for artistic excellence in albums, was released Thursday in Toronto. Ten albums are vying for one of the most prestigious awards in Canadian music.

"When you're talking Canadian music, there's a lot to appreciate," says Shawna Naklicki, a blogger with the Canadian music blog Sound Vat, based in the province of Ontario. "Over the last couple years, our music has been making its way around the rest of the world more so that than it did in the past. This is really great to see, because we do have a lot to offer." Because of the variety and the diversity in Canada, Naklicki says, you can hear something that is definitely Canadian, and definitely worth international attention.

So, who should get it? "There's really a lot to take in when making predictions for this year's Polaris Prize," Naklicki says. "The jurors have picked a variety of music." Naklicki adds that the list has a great representation of artists from coast to coast, in addition to acts across French Canada.

Electronic band Austra, songwriter Ron Sexmith, and folk band Timber Timbre are amongst the list. The coast-to-coast representation Naklicki refers to comes from Hey Rosetta! of the Atlantic province of Newfoundland and Labrador and Destroyer from the western province of British Columbia, with Galaxie of Montreal representing French Canada.

Yet, the big expectation of the win is Arcade Fire, who have won Juno awards, Brit awards, and Grammy awards for their work, especially for their most recent album The Suburbs. "The Suburbs truly is a masterpiece, and in my opinion is one of the best albums released in the past couple years," Naklicki says. "However, there's been arguments among Canadian music fans that it shouldn't be eligible for the prize, since in the past Polaris has recognized musicians that are more on the unknown side of things, and less on the world domination side."

If Arcade Fire is not chosen, Naklicki adds, the albums from Hey Rosetta!, Timber Timbre, and Destroyer are also strong contenders. "They are sure to give The Suburbs a run for its money," Naklicki says.

The winner of the prize is to be announced September 19th.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Sound Vat is examining the ten albums in contention over the next ten weeks. You can visit Sound Vat here. In addition, a link will be posted in recommended reading.

South Sudan becomes independent

2011-07-09T14:29:00.001-05:00

As of 9pm GMT last night, South Sudan is an independent country. Thousands gathered in Freedom Square in the country's capital Juba, raising the national flag, singing the national anthem, and cheering at the birth of the world's new country.

The speaker of Parliament of South Sudan said according to Radio France Internationale that it was a priority that South Sudan sought membership to international bodies, including the UN and the African Union. However, a new law was passed in North Sudan removing Sudanese citizenship from those in the south, according to a BBC report.

Sudan, Egypt, and the U.S. are among the states that recognize South Sudan, and U.S. President Barack Obama said that the U.S. would support South Sudan as it develops.

CRTC delays license hearing for CBC

2011-07-09T00:52:00.001-05:00

UPDATED July 11 2011 12:25pm CT

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission has delayed the license renewal hearings scheduled for CBC/Radio-Canada, the country's public broadcaster.

In a statement on the CRTC's web site, the organization said that it was postponed because of the uncertainty in CBC's federal funding, which comes from a Parliamentary allocation and administered by the Department of Canadian Heritage, in addition to a request for information from other organizations associated with the renewal.

"This delay allows us to continue rolling out our five-year plan, Everyone, Every way, and will let the Commission and Canadians see for themselves the improvements we have in store for the public broadcaster," said CBC/Radio-Canada's president, Hubert LaCroix, in a release, adding that the corporation did not request the delay.

Le Football is awaiting a statement from the Department of Canadian Heritage. The CRTC did not respond to a phone call request seeking comment. The CRTC is still accepting comments about the corporation's licenses of their radio and television services in English and French.

One call, one poem

2011-07-08T01:03:00.000-05:00

The American poet Heather Christle is offering a unique service to fans of her work in the United States and around the world. She has just released a second set of poems called "The Trees The Trees", and if you call her up, she'll read you a poem.

She's spoken to everyone, from ordinary citizens to the BBC World Service's Newshour and CBC Radio's As It Happens.

She is offering this service during set hours on Eastern time until July 14th, so if you're interested, give her a call. Her phone number is +1 413 570 3077

I'm going to call. Will you?

News of the World shuts

2011-07-07T15:29:00.000-05:00

The controversial British tabloid publication the News of the World is to shut down on Sunday after allegations arose this week of phone hacking involving a murdered schoolgirl and family members of British soldiers. News of the World is owned by News International, the UK subsidiary of Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation.

The Sun, its sister newspaper, has expanded operations to 7 days, unveiling the Sun on Sunday which is to replace it.

News International spokeswoman Daisy Dunlop, in an interview with Le Football, said that the 200 journalists impacted will be able to apply for vacancies within News International, and that the company is being transparent with police and supports any investigations.

Additionally, there is a report from the National Union of Journalists saying that sub-editors at the Sun have walked off the job in protest of the closure of the News of the World. Dunlop said that report was not accurate, and that the Sun is operating normally.

Mail delay continues in Canada

2011-07-06T18:43:00.000-05:00

One week after the postal strike ended, Canada Post is still working to ease the backlog that has emerged through its plants.

Canada Post spokeswoman Anick Losier, in an interview with Le Football, said that 40 million letters had been registered in the backlog, and that plants had been processing over 9 million letters more than the traditional volume of 18 million expected this time of year. Losier added that this was hoped to be resolved by next week.

Additionally, a CBC news article says that Canada Post had incurred losses of $200 million over the course of the strike. Losier confirmed that but said that Canada Post is waiting for a full picture of the outcomes. The article also quotes the President of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers Denis Lemelin saying that they are not being paid overtime by Canada Post to help with the volume.

In an interview with CBC Radio in Montreal in the Canadian province of Quebec, the CUPW's Montreal president Alain Duguay says these delays are not accidental, and believes that the corporation is "dragging its feet" in restoring service to the country.

Man City ready to keep hold of Tevez

2011-07-06T00:02:00.000-05:00

An article from the British newspaper the Guardian has revealed that the Manchester City football club is ready to "take a hardline stance" with its captain Carlos Tevez, who has expressed wishes to leave the club because of family reasons.

The club has offered 50 million GBP which has been sent to Tevez and his representatives. If this offer is declined, he may be forced to stay at the club against his wishes.

He announced his wish to depart in May.

Le Review: Reality Hunger

2011-07-05T21:33:00.000-05:00

It's a debate that has the literary and cultural worlds split in two.

Is the novel dead? What is the best definition of fiction and non-fiction? How should we address the ideas of 21st century culture that many have come accustomed to? The writer David Shields addresses this in "Reality Hunger: A Manifesto" (Vintage Books, $15 USD, now out in paperback). Shields gives a unique perspective into the world of literature and modern culture, and proposes ideas that will raise an eyebrow.

Yet, Shields shows the distinction within these literary and cultural movements, and his unique perspective guides how the movements should be.

David Shields has produced a provocative, fascinating read, and produced one of the best books I've read.

Editor's note: A change in remit

2011-07-05T13:27:00.000-05:00

Every day I evaluate the content that is on this blog and wonder what I can do to make the blog better. The reader statistics that I see show that this blog has a very wide presence in Canada and parts of Europe.

I also understand that there is a wide amount of competition out there for international news and other information to this extent that is stated in the previous remit. A uniqueness must be maintained. So, I have made a revision to the remit.

The coverage of hockey, the English Premier League, and the media will stay, but expect a lot more content about Canada and Europe. This decision is made to allow readers around the world, including in the United States (where the largest feedback is seen) to get an understanding of the relevance of these countries, especially Canada, where there is some concern of cultural understanding on the part of the U.S.

And, as always, you're more than welcome to let me know what your thoughts are. Drop me an e-mail, tweet me, or leave a note on the Le Football Facebook page.

Canada's budget and Atlantic Canada

2011-07-05T09:53:00.002-05:00

UPDATED July 5 2011 10:02am CT

When the Canadian finance minister Jim Flaherty unveiled his budget before the 2011 election, the budget had little direct impact on the provinces of Atlantic Canada--New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador, according to commentary from the Atlantic Provinces Economic Council, based in Halifax, in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia.

With cuts imposed to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans worth $56 million, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency worth $15 million, and Marine Atlantic worth $5 million, in addition to Defense cuts in the region of $525 million by the 2012-13 fiscal year and $1 billion by the 2013-14 fiscal year mandated in the 2010 budget, APEC says that some programs will help the individual provincial economies but will not help with the burden that the provinces have to match the funding.

A spokesman for the Finance Ministry confirmed the cuts, but referred to the agencies for further details on the cuts. The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency has not responded to a request for comment. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans declined to comment. ACOA and DFO are two of the largest agencies that work to secure Atlantic Canada's economic viability.

The budget passed Canada's House of Commons on June 13th.

Russia begins privatizing businesses

2011-07-05T09:26:00.000-05:00

Russia has announced that it is to sell off its shares in oil, media, and financial companies within three to five years, its finance minister told a conference in St. Petersburg last week. Alexey Kudrin, according to a BBC report, said that the economic model poses a risk to the country's future, adding that over the next decade more privatization would be sought.

Russia's president Dmitry Medvedev ordered the privatization 10 days before the announcement was made public. Shares in the airplane company Aeroflot and in oil companies will begin the privatization program.

Djokovic's win ends Wimbledon

2011-07-03T14:10:00.001-05:00

UPDATED July 5 2011 8:55am CT

Novak Djokovic defeated Rafael Nadal to win the men's final of Wimbledon, marking Nadal's first defeat at Wimbledon in 4 years.

"This is my favorite tournament," Djokovic told the BBC after his match. "The tournament I always dreamed of winning, the first tournament I ever watched in my life. I think I'm still sleeping, I'm still having my dream."

This win ends a weekend of upsets in a very interesting tournament. Yesterday Petra Kvitova beat Maria Sharapova to win her first title in the women's final.

On Monday Djokovic was given a warm reception upon his return to his native Serbia, according to a BBC report.

Kvitova pulls an upset

2011-07-02T13:25:00.000-05:00

Petra Kvitova of the Czech Republic has pulled an upset against Maria Sharapova, winning her first Grand Slam title at Wimbledon. According to a New York Times report, this was Kvitova's first major final.

"I'm standing here with the trophy and I see some great players in the Royal Box," Kvitova said according to a BBC interview. "It's very nice that Martina Navratilova and Jana Novotna are watching me and have supported me all the time during the tournament and gave me some advice." Kvitova added that with this victory that there were no words to describe it.

Kvitova, according to a BBC report, is the first person from the Czech Republic to win Wimbledon since Jana Novotna won it in 1998.

Shellfish harvest ban in New Brunswick

2011-07-01T23:36:00.002-05:00

UPDATED July 5 2011 8:46am CT

The Canadian Department of Fisheries and Oceans have announced a ban on harvesting bi-valve molluscs due to an increase in toxins linked with paralytic shellfish poisoning. The ban extends through the southwestern part of the Canadian province of New Brunswick and extends to the border with the American state of Maine.

In a release, the agency says that poisoning comes from toxins that naturally occur, known as dinoflagellates, usually seen in planktonic organisms.

The agency did not respond to a request seeking comment. A spokeswoman for the National Marine Fisheries Service, which coordinates aquaculture in the United States, referred to the state of Maine's fisheries agency, which did not respond to a request for comment.

A party weekend on the continent

2011-07-01T17:27:00.000-05:00

Today is Canada Day. 144 years ago Canada became an independent country, as people from coast to coast to coast come together to celebrate Canada, its cultures, and its people. It is a national holiday. Celebrations were further expanded by the visit of Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton.

But Canada Day is not the only celebration going on this weekend on the North American continent. On Monday, the people of the United States will gather and celebrate the country's 235th birthday. But there is one most thing that the celebrations have in common--people appreciate their countries for what they are.

I hope you enjoyed Canada Day, and for my American readers, I wish you a safe and happy 4th of July.

Scottish First Minister plans independence referendum

2011-07-01T17:17:00.001-05:00

The First Minister of Scotland Alex Salmond has said that there is to be an independence referendum introduced in the latter duration of his government's term in office. This referendum was a priority of his Scottish National Party's government after they were given a majority in May's elections.

There has been some debate on this referendum and what it means to the whole of the UK. An economic adviser to the First Minister John Kay said in a BBC article that though it is viable it would bring little gain. A spokesperson for the First Minister said that Kay was "appointed on his record as a globally respected economist and not for any political affiliation."

"The CEA was made up of a mix of economists, some of whom, like John Kay, believe in financial autonomy for Scotland, and others who support independence," the spokesperson says. "The one thing they all agree on is the need for Scotland to gain substantially more economic powers, and, as John Kay himself says, an independent Scotland is a perfectly viable economic prospect."

The spokesperson adds that the current priority for the Scottish government is the Scotland Bill, which is currently working its way through the UK Parliament in London.

Murray is out at Wimbledon

2011-07-01T16:55:00.000-05:00

Andy Murray was knocked out of the Wimbledon semi-finals today after being defeated in four sets by Rafael Nadal.

Murray left the semi-final stage for the third year in a row, after what was a game that left those in their seats at Wimbledon, and those across the UK and international supporters listening, reading, or watching results, stunned by the result. The British number one (and the world's number 4) said, according to an article from the British newspaper The Guardian, that he played a "high-risk game".

"It's tough for him to lose this match today but I wish him all the best for the rest of the year, all the best especially for the US Open," Nadal said in an interview with the BBC. "He played fantastic at the beginning but he had an important mistake at the beginning of the second set, at 15-30 an easy forehand he played long, and probably that was one of the turning points of the match."

Nadal advances to Sunday's final against Novak Djokovic, while Maria Sharapova plays Petra Kvitova in tomorrow's final.

What does it mean to be a Canadian?

2011-07-01T02:29:00.000-05:00

Today (July 1st) is Canada Day. 144 years ago Canada became an independent country. But on this day what does it mean to be a Canadian? What values do Canadians take to heart?

Earlier this week, I reached a woman in Ottawa, the country's capital. "I moved to Ottawa 12 years ago," she said, stating that she is from New Brunswick, the country's official bilingual province. "My fiancee (now husband) and I moved into a small apartment and every year we had a potluck, and every year in Ottawa the sight had attracted hundreds of thousands."

She added that Canada's acceptance of other languages and cultures adds to the distinction of Canada. Her kids have immense pride in their country and it shows.

If you're a Canadian reader, may I wish you a safe and Happy Canada Day.

The Royals are coming!

2011-06-29T00:10:00.000-05:00

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are to visit Canada, making their first international tour of the country as a married couple. The tour of Canada, which is to begin Thursday, starts in Ottawa, the country's capital, and will then extend to Quebec, Prince Edward Island, the Northwest Territories, and ending in Alberta where they will depart July 8th from the southern city Calgary to Los Angeles, California, in the United States.

"This is an exciting time for Albertans and Canadians," said Tom Neufeld, who is coordinating the events in Calgary for the Alberta government, adding that this will build on the relation that Canada has with the Royal Family as a member of the Commonwealth.

As this is the first international tour for the Royal couple, this represents significance and in addition will be a major boost to tourism in the respective areas.

BBC Burmese unveils video bulletins

2011-06-28T12:41:00.000-05:00

The BBC's Burmese Service (part of the BBC World Service) has unveiled video bulletins on its web site, in a first for Burmese-language media.

The bulletins, which last one minute, are daily and report on key stories from around the world. This is in addition to the content already made available on the site. "The recently launched BBC Burmese Facebook page has been a hit with the users inside Burma, showing our Burmese audience’s keenness to connect with the BBC," says Tin Htar Swe, BBC Burmese's editor, in a press release. "We are really excited to be launching this new, dynamic online product which will bring a new dimension to our content for Burmese-speakers, wherever they are."

The BBC launched the Burmese service via radio in 1940, and has a weekly audience of 8.4 million listeners, reaching to almost 23% of the population. Additionally, surveys conducted shows that the BBC is the most trusted international broadcaster in Burma.

Canada Post begins transition back to work

2011-06-27T17:16:00.000-05:00

The Canadian government's back-to-work legislation passed the Senate last night and was signed into law moments later, beginning the transition for Canada Post to resume services across the country.

"We are looking at a timetable to get services back up and running as quickly as possible," said Canada Post spokeswoman Anick Losier in an interview with Le Football. "We want to keep our customers happy with our services. We have an extremely competitive network so that will help."

Losier added before the legislation passed Canada Post met with officials at the Canadian Union of Postal Workers, but those negotiations stalled, but said that they will work with CUPW as this timetable goes in. "We want to make sure the heart is in the right place," Losier said. 'These employees are proud of what they do working for Canada Post."

Additionally, the United States Postal Service will start accepting mail again intending to go to Canada.

Le Interview: Karly Kirkpatrick

2011-06-26T15:29:00.001-05:00

UPDATED June 26 2011 3:31pm CT

The way we read books is changing. E-Readers are now in high demand, and many have questioned the meaning of a physical book, and the literary impacts of these e-readers. The American young adult novelist Karly Kirkpatrick is one of those people who has thought about its impact. She tells Le Football that she is not concerned.

"Originally as a writer, before I started E-Publishing, I was wary of E-Readers," Kirkpatrick says. "I preferred my paper books." But, Kirkpatrick adds, after she bought one of Amazon's Kindle devices, her thoughts changed. "Like the iPod has revolutionized how we listen to and store music, I think the E-Reader will do the same for books."

"Before it was New York publishing houses or bust," Kirkpatrick says. "But now, I can reach readers around the world instantly. It gives me a great amount of power as an author." But what does the future of books mean with the high demand of e-readers? Kirkpatrick thinks that paper books will still be around. "Most people will read their books via E-Readers, but
will buy their favorite books in hardcover in order to have on the bookshelf," Kirkpatrick says. "Or specialty books, like art or photography books, will be in hardcover."

Kirkpatrick adds that most of the books she has she wouldn't care to purchase in a paper copy.

The Jets are called the Jets

2011-06-25T00:01:00.000-05:00

The new Winnipeg NHL franchise will retain the name Jets, it was announced Friday. The news came prior to the beginning of the NHL draft this weekend.

Other options according to a CBC report were the Manitoba Jets, the Manitoba Moose, and the Winnipeg Falcons, but the report added that the Winnipeg Jets was the most popular name.

Nicole Eisel on the riots

2011-06-24T00:23:00.000-05:00

When Nicole Eisel learned of the disparaging riots that had Vancouver in a state of violence, she expected it would have happened, yet true Vancouverites would not have done this.

"It seems that it was a core group of people that went to the city from the suburbs to start a riot," Eisel says. Eisel adds that she grew up in the suburbs and now lives and works in Vancouver, and true Vancouverites can take pride in their city.

"I have been to see the "great wall" as they're calling it, with all the notes, messages and posts on the boarded up windows and I have to say it's quite touching," Eisel says. "Also, I was happy to hear the love and support for the VPD and other emergency services when people took to placing post-it notes on 2 police vehicles one afternoon." Eisel adds that outside of the events after the riot, "Vancouver really is a beautiful city that is usually quite jovial and friendly."

"I'm proud to call it home."

Souris River flooding hits record levels

2011-06-22T21:31:00.000-05:00

The city of Minot in the American state of North Dakota has been faced with record levels of flooding on the Souris River. Sirens sounded this morning as 11,000 residents of Minot evacuated along with 1,000 residents in the nearby town of Burlington.

North Dakota's governor Jack Dalrymple has declared a state of emergency, and the counties impacted have declared a state of emergency. In addition, according to Department of Emergency Services public information officer Cecily Fong there is an application in for federal emergency assistance, which is awaiting response.

The National Weather Service in the state's capital Bismarck has a flood warning active until further notice.

EDITOR'S NOTE: The Red Cross in the United States is operating efforts to help those impacted. Information on their efforts is located here, and further information on the high water levels, in addition to resources from the state's Department of Emergency Services, are located here.

A change to CBC Radio's The House

2011-06-22T19:34:00.000-05:00

It has been announced that Kathleen Petty, a presenter of the Canadian politics radio program The House on the Canadian public broadcaster CBC is to depart her role with the program later this year, moving to the city of Calgary for a CBC role based there.

According to a CBC report, Petty has presented The House for 5 years, in addition to her work on the Ottawa Morning radio program for the CBC's operations in the country's capital Ottawa. Petty joined the public broadcaster in 1989, and begins her role in Calgary in August.

Obama announces draw down of troops

2011-06-22T19:24:00.000-05:00

The U.S. president Barack Obama has said that 10,000 U.S. troops will leave Afghanistan beginning next month, and an additional 23,000 troops will be out of the country by the summer of next year. This removal, Obama says, will help allow the completion of transition to Afghanistan to be complete by 2014.

In an address to the country, Obama said that the mission will move from a combat role to a support role. "We take comfort in knowing that the tide of war is receding," Obama says. "Fewer of our sons and daughters are serving in harm's way. We have ended our combat mission in Iraq, with 100,000 American troops already out of that country, and even as there will be dark days ahead in Afghanistan, the light of a secure peace can be seen in the distance."

Obama added however that challenges remain persistent. "We will have to do the hard work of keeping the gains that we have made, while we draw down our forces and transition responsibility for security to the Afghan government," Obama says, adding that next May in the American city of Chicago, there are to be meetings with NATO allies to discuss the next phase of the transition.

Obama also said that it is time to "invest in America's greatest resource--our people. We must unleash innovation that creates new jobs and industry, while living within our means. We must rebuild our infrastructure and find new and clean sources of energy. And most of all, after a decade of passionate debate, we must recapture the common purpose that we shared at the beginning of this time of war."

But, Obama was confident with his overall objective. "These long wars will come to a responsible end."

Perspective two on Vancouver

2011-06-22T15:07:00.000-05:00

EDITOR'S NOTE: This is the second of two perspectives on the riots that took place last week in Vancouver, in the Canadian province of British Columbia.

When Andrea Yeung learned of the riots that had plagued Vancouver, she was in disbelief. "I did not and could not fathom that people were destroying my city the way that they were," Yeung says. "I had never seen anything of the likes in Vancouver so standing there watching people throw rocks, stones, fire extinguishers, etc. at the windows of businesses downtown was really astonishing." Yeung adds that it was like a movie, and when she approached the CBC's building, that it was time to get out.

But, she adds, there were people preparing to riot, regardless of the Stanley Cup match's outcome. "It was those people, the ones who knew exactly what they were doing and came prepared with tactics, that really instigated everything," Yeung says. "Others simply followed suit, thinking they weren't going to get caught."

As her city fell apart bit by bit, disappointment was felt. "It's my home," Yeung says. "I was born here, I've lived here my entire life and I don't plan on moving away for a very long time simply because I think Vancouver is an amazing city." Yeung adds that beforehand Vancouver (and in fact the whole province of British Columbia) had been portrayed as one of the most peaceful destinations in the world, and with the reputation of great people who had cared about this city that tourists were encouraged to visit.

One week later, however, Yeung says the pride of Vancouver is still very much intact. "The actions of a few mindless people are not representative of those of the city," Yeung says. "There was a lot of international coverage on the destruction brought on by the rioters, but there was very little media following the clean-up efforts and apologies that were overflowing in downtown Vancouver the next morning."

"There is still so much pride among the citizens of Vancouver and a couple of rioters, who may or may not even be from Vancouver, aren't going to be breaking that anytime soon."

Russia's Medvedev wants Obama re-elected

2011-06-21T23:21:00.000-05:00

The Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has told the Financial Times newspaper that he wants to see Barack Obama re-elected in next year's U.S. presidential elections. Medvedev, according to a report from Agence France-Presse, said this due to concerns that the restoration of relations between Russia and the United States would not be able to fully be carried out under a new President.

"We understand that there are representatives of a rather conservative wing there who are trying to achieve their political goals at the expense of inflaming passions in relation to Russia, among other things," Medvedev said. "But what use is criticizing them? This is simply a way of achieving political goals."

Medvedev, since taking office, has made stabilizing relations with the U.S. a high priority on his foreign policy. Some of the accomplishments include the support of a UN resolution for the conflict in Libya and the new START treaty.

One of two perspectives on the Vancouver riots

2011-06-20T14:26:00.000-05:00

Last week, when the Vancouver Canucks lost to the Boston Bruins in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup finals, riots broke out in Vancouver, in the Canadian province of British Columbia. Canucks jerseys were burned, cars were set ablaze, and destruction was amidst in the area surrounding the CBC building.

It left Vancouver and its citizens in disbelief, criticizing those who had decided to proceed with these actions. I asked two people in Vancouver what their reactions were. This is the first of these reactions.

Jorden Hutchison is with Tourism Vancouver. The tourism image of Vancouver was damaged with these riots, but Hutchison says that the image can be rebuilt. "From our experience this is a short term problem," Hutchison said in a phone interview Friday. When it came to the riots, however, the answer was a consensus many in Vancouver had. "We are embarrassed," Hutchison said. "Those thugs were looking for trouble. They aren't Vancouverites."

Hutchison added though that almost immediately people came to help. "People came to help clean the city. Within an hour or two, there were thousands. People believe in this city." Hutchison says that social media had a lot to do with it, as messages across Twitter and Facebook had been seen, with #canucksriot and #myvancouver being Twitter hashtags.

Hutchison is confident that people will want to come back in lieu of this incident. "We're proud of this city," Hutchison says. "These efforts show what we're all about."

U.S. mail service to Canada suspended

2011-06-18T15:31:00.001-05:00

Mail service to Canada from the United States will be suspended as of the close of business today, according to the U.S. Postal Service, which supplies mail throughout the U.S. This is being done because of the lock out imposed across Canada Post.

In a statement on its web site, the Postal Service said that as of 11:59pm CT (12:59am ET) mail service to Canada would be suspended. Canada Post has told the Postal Service that this suspension would last through next week. However, customers using the Global Express Guaranteed (GXG) service would still have deliveries made to Canada.

Canada Post engaged a lock out as negotiations between the company and the Canadian Postal Workers Union (CUPW) broke down. The government has said that it will be creating back to work legislation to keep the strike from continuing. Ashley Kelahear, a spokeswoman for Labor Minister Lisa Raitt said that a timeline for this legislation was hard to judge. Meanwhile, Canada Post "is focused on trying to reach a negotiated agreement as quickly as possible," said Canada Post spokeswoman Anick Losier.

Le Interview: Colleen Lamothe

2011-06-15T23:04:00.000-05:00

When the Vancouver Canucks lost to the Boston Bruins 4-0, many took it as a great game. Others had begun riots, burning Canucks jerseys on the streets of Vancouver and leaving burning cars.

Colleen Lamothe is a Canucks supporter in Vancouver. Originally from Montreal, she knew Boston was a great team, as they frequently played the Montreal Canadiens. "You had one of the greatest American teams in the NHL going up one of the greatest Canadian teams in the NHL," Lamothe said in an interview from Vancouver. "We had a great opponent in Boston."

Lamothe adds that the Canucks team did its country proud. "Canada can celebrate tonight," Lamothe says. "The team did well and did Vancouver (and Canada) proud."

As for the riots, Lamothe adds that Canucks fans are classy and its a few people who do them.

Bruins win Stanley Cup

2011-06-15T21:55:00.001-05:00

UPDATED TO REFLECT TECHNICAL ERROR June 15 2011 9:56pm CT

And just like that, it's over.

The Boston Bruins beat the Vancouver Canucks 4-0 to win the Stanley Cup for the first time in 39 years at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, in the Canadian province of British Columbia. Tim Thomas has just been announced as the winner of the Conn Smythe trophy by NHL commissioner Gary Bettman. In addition, Bruins player Mark Recchi has told the CBC's Don MacLean that he is to retire.

And as I write this the Cup has been presented, and the cheers at Rogers Arena are there.

It is a very good blog...

2011-06-15T21:40:00.000-05:00

For those of you who are fans of food (or some good insight reading) may I recommend to you the blog The Process of Healing, a blog by a future culinary student. It examines her recovery of an injury as running is one of the things she adores, in addition some of her favorite recipes.

It's a very good read, and you can have a look at it here. Additionally, it will go up in the "A Selection of what I read"section of the site.

It's on...

2011-06-15T20:20:00.000-05:00

It's game night. The Vancouver Canucks and the Boston Bruins are squaring off at Rogers Arena in gorgeous Vancouver, in the Canadian province of British Columbia. As I write this it is 1-0 to the Bruins as we go into the 2nd period.

What are your thoughts on the game? Get involved.

Leave a comment below.
Tweet me.
Leave a note on the Facebook page.
E-mail me.

Enjoy the game! Oh, by the way, here's the perfect song to get you in the mood for the great sight.

Can Andy Murray succeed at Wimbledon?

2011-06-15T13:00:00.000-05:00

During his performance at the French Open, the Scottish tennis player Andy Murray was focused. He was determined to succeed, and he did this while recovering from an ankle injury. Murray's next tournament is Wimbledon, so what is necessary for Murray to be successful at Wimbledon?

"As well as he played in Paris, the clay of the French Open is a long way removed from the grass of Wimbledon, so his preparation is completely different," says Kevin Mitchell, the tennis correspondent for the Guardian newspaper in Britain. "He will concentrate on upping the power of his serve, because he can take more risks with it on grass."

While the grass will be kinder to his ankle, Murray, Britain's #1 tennis play and #4 in the world has some tough competition, which comes from the Swiss tennis player Roger Federer, Spain's Rafael Nadal, and Serbia's Novak Djokovic. Mitchell says that Murray's happy to go up against any of them. "Federer might be the biggest threat on grass, but Andy leads him 8-6 overall," Mitchell says. "Rafa leads him 11-4, but Andy enjoys that challenge more than any other, and Novak leads him 6-3, but their semi-final in Rome was a terrific match that could have gone either way."

Going in, Mitchell says, Murray is relaxed, and doesn't interrupt his normal routine going into a match on home soil. Overall, for Murray, this will be a series of great matches.

An interesting conversation

2011-06-13T23:38:00.001-05:00

UPDATED June 13 2011 11:40pm CT

When it was revealed that the writer of the blog "A Gay Girl in Damascus" was in fact an American living in Scotland, it raised questions of why journalists had covered it.

If you're interested, the BBC World Service interviewed Andy Carvin of National Public Radio in the US and its a great conversation. You can listen here and it is 3 minutes in. Audio of this will be available until 8:02am UK time on Monday June 20th.

Austen manuscript for sale

2011-06-13T01:15:00.000-05:00

An unfinished handwritten manuscript by the British novelist Jane Austen is to go on sale at Sotheby's in London on July 14.

The manuscript, the last privately owned according to a Guardian report, is valued at 200,000-300,000 GBP (approx $323,000-$485,000 USD), was penned by Austen in 1804.

The Watsons was part of the turbulent period that Austen was in personally.

It's Game 6, and it's getting tense

2011-06-13T00:31:00.000-05:00

Later today the Vancouver Canucks will skate against the Boston Bruins in Game 6 of the Stanley Cup finals. Vancouver, who leads 3-2, will get the Cup if they win tonight. On the other hand, if Boston wins, the series will be tied, forcing a Game 7, which would be held Wednesday in Vancouver.

It's been a tense series for both teams, but in light of the suspension and recovery of Vancouver defenseman Aaron Rome and Bruins right wing Nathan Horton (which Rome apologized for but said he did not regret according to a CBC report), what is your prediction? Does this series end tonight in the epicenter of New England? Or will the series return to the mighty shores of British Columbia to put both teams further to the test?

Post your comments below, tweet me, drop me an e-mail, or leave a note on the Le Football Facebook page.

Aung San Suu Kyi to be BBC Reith Lecturer

2011-06-10T09:50:00.001-05:00

UPDATED TO REFLECT TECHNICAL ERROR June 10 2011 9:51am CT

It's been announced that one of the person's taking part in the BBC's Reith Lectures series will be Aung San Suu Kyi. Suu Kyi, a former opposition politician in Burma, recorded the lectures from Burma and the tapes left Burma with a BBC team Thursday, according to a report from the Financial Times.

Suu Kyi says that speaking to the BBC signals once again to her that she is free.

The Lectures will air on June 28th and July 5th, and they will air on the domestic station Radio 4 and the World Service, the international station.

Canucks fans reportedly assaulted in Boston

2011-06-09T00:26:00.001-05:00

UPDATED June 9 2011 3:51pm CT

EDITOR'S NOTE: This post may contain language which might be offensive to some readers.

Fans of the Vancouver Canucks team were reportedly assaulted in Boston Monday after an 8-1 win to the Boston Bruins in Game 3 of the hockey Stanley Cup finals. A report from the Canadian newspaper the Province says that one section of Bruins fans referred to one fan as a "Canucks bitch." On-line reaction had followed, the report adds, with verbal harassment ensuing, discomforting many.

"A sport is a sport, and should b left to the players in the game," says Theresa Le, a Canucks supporter based in Vancouver. "Fans that spectate the sport shouldn't take it upon one another for revenge." Le adds that its our decision to root for a team, but says its shameful to face harassment for it. "The sport does not define who we are as an individual. An exchange of "jokes" is fine, but they call it sportsmanship for a reason," Le says. "Border war or not, we shouldn't use a sport as a reason to treat each other like this as if there's not 'war' out there already."

In a statement the Boston police said there was no evidence of assault, adding that officers are assigned to areas to prevent such confrontations.

Hello Gulf, I've missed you.

2011-06-08T00:27:00.000-05:00

EDITOR'S NOTE: Whilst this blog rarely devotes itself to opinion, below please find a post with opinion. The views expressed are my own.

It was a quiet evening on April 20, 2010. A Tuesday work day had finished, and as the people of the United States had enjoyed others company, disaster quickly struck.

At 9:26pm Central time, an explosion occurred at the Deepwater Horizon oil rig off the Louisiana coast, fire burning from all sides for 36 hours, and killing 11 workers whilst injuring 16 others. No one knew why it exploded or what its implications were to be, but the circumstances were dire. The nation was in shock. The rig spilled oil into the Gulf of Mexico for 86 days, impacting the ways of life in the states of Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida. Tourism was impacted and the fishery was destroyed. It was the worst disaster the United States had faced, President Obama said.

One year has passed. The well was sealed and the recovery has taken a significant turn for the better. NOAA, the US government's science research agency, reopened the last of the closed off waters in April. NOAA and the FDA have also been testing seafood safety (NOAA for the habitat and the FDA for the fish to be turned to seafood), ensuring that it is quality for the public to consume. BP has paid over $6 billion out of a $20 billion compensation fund to help businesses recover.

But, the recovery has a key process, and it involves you, the reader.

The Gulf of Mexico (and its states) represent a core of America. From the culture showcasing streets of New Orleans, the mountains of Cullman, the history of Jackson, the beauty of the Keys, and every sight in between and after, the Gulf region is the most vibrant. They have quality seafood, majestic coastlines, and experiences that are unique to any vacation. Although I've never been to fully experience it, I hope to do so.

I encourage you to come on down to the Gulf for a visit, and experience the stories, culture, and history of America through one of the most vibrant regions of America.

Harper subject of hoax

2011-06-07T21:45:00.001-05:00

UPDATED June 7 2011 9:53pm CT

The Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper was the subject of a hoax today after the Conservative Party's web site was hacked into by an individual based in the United States. The hacker posted a release saying that Mr. Harper had been rushed to Toronto General Hospital after choking on a hash brown, prompting his wife to call 911. The release was submitted on the individual's Twitter account and had been the center of discussion.

That was not the case, and Dmitri Soudas, Mr. Harper's spokesman, told CBC News that the report was false. "Clearly somebody hacked our website," Soudas said according to the CBC report, adding that the Prime Minister dropped his daughter off at school and arrived at Parliament Hill in the country's capital Ottawa healthy.

Americans dissatisfied with Congress more than ever

2011-06-07T21:31:00.000-05:00

A poll commissioned by the American publication USA Today and the polling agency Gallup shows that Americans are dissatisfied with Congress more than ever.

The poll indicated that Americans had felt the majority of members of Congress would not be re-elected, with 28% saying most should be re-elected. This sentiment comes after November elections which left Republicans returning to the majority in the House of Representatives and Democrats retaining their majority in the Senate.

"In many ways, this new poll is entire consistent with recent trends in public attitudes toward Congress, only the negative feelings are more intense and aggravated," says Christopher Arterton, Professor of Political Management and Director of the Institute of Politics, Democracy, and the Internet at the Graduate School of Political Management at George Washington University. "The sense of gridlock is frustrating, especially when domestic problems are severe. From the public's point of view, little has happened in the past three to improve the economic situation. And, the argument by Obama that things would have been much worse just isn't taking root."

Yet, Michael Steel, a spokesman for Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio), in a USA Today report, said the public mood response belongs to the Democrats. "We're working to help the American people, who face skyrocketing fuel prices and persistent unemployment," Steel said in the report. "But, we control only one-half of one-third of the federal government."

However, with talks beginning of what will happen in the 2012 elections, Arterton adds that the economy will be a deciding factor. "Without major improvement and if these attitudes stay as sour as they are now, incumbents of both parties will be in trouble," Arterton says.

The Australian begins paywall

2011-06-07T00:40:00.000-05:00

The News Corporation owned newspaper The Australian is to begin implementing a paywall in October.

The paper, based in Sydney in the Australian state of New South Wales, is joining in a similar scheme with other papers around the world owned by News Corporation that are charging readers for on-line content. Its UK subsidiary News International began their scheme last year. Rupert Murdoch announced the scheme in 2009.

According to a report from the ABC, subscriptions will begin at AU$2.95 a week for iPad and Android application subscriptions in addition to access to The Australian's web site. Those who subscribe to the newspaper across 6 days have digital subscriptions starting at AU$7.95 a week.

"We believe that The Australian journalism has real value online as well as in print, and extensive research suggests our readers agree," said Richard Freudenstein, the company's chief quoted in an ABC report. "The introduction of subscription packages will not only open up a new and important revenue stream, but also give us a much closer, more valuable, relationship with our most loyal and engaged readers."

In Winnipeg, it's excitement

2011-06-06T13:58:00.000-05:00

Last week, a deal was finished by True North Entertainment and the NHL that gave the city Winnipeg in the Canadian province of Manitoba its professional hockey team back, 15 years after the team went to the American city of Atlanta, Georgia.

Just a few minutes ago I got off the phone with Sarah Zaharia, who's based in Winnipeg and she told me there had been a lot of excitement. "We had some skepticism on whether this was going to happen," Zaharia says. "But, there was excitement around Winnipeg. People took it seriously." Celebrations began on the streets of Portage and Main and in the Forks. Jets gear (noting the previous name Winnipeg Jets) was in full force. "I could hear people cheering from my office," Zaharia says.

Now that the team is in full force, and the tickets are sold (sold rather quickly) the momentum is on. "I want to be a part of it," Zaharia adds.

Ban-ki Moon to run for 2nd term as Sec General

2011-06-06T10:52:00.000-05:00

Agence-France Presse is reporting that the UN Secretary General Ban-ki Moon is to run for a second term. Mr. Ban sent a letter to the General Assembly saying he would be deeply humbled to serve.

"It has been an enormous privilege to lead this great Organization," Ban said at a UN press conference in New York. "If supported by the Member States, I would be deeply honoured to serve once more."

Ban has served, according to a UN release, since January 2007 as Secretary General.

An addition to the beat

2011-06-04T21:50:00.000-05:00

I have the great joy of making this blog every day. I'm especially pleased to know that many a person in many countries are coming day in and day out to view this. But here is the thing. I always wonder if I'm covering enough, broadening the appeal of the blog. Stories and events cross my attention every day and I know there would be a person interested. That's why there are a lot of good posts on this blog and in the work.

I also note that I've been devoting posts to NHL Hockey and the playoffs taking place, but it is not registered officially as what I cover, and also I feel considering the readership that hockey should get more coverage on this blog.

Therefore, I'd like to extend a welcome to NHL Hockey to what I call the "beat", which also consists of the English Premier League, the media, culture, and international news and sport. In addition to the hockey coverage, lots of good things are coming up, including an examination of Andy Murray's priorities at Wimbledon, the Canadian Parliament as it goes into session, and a look at if Nicolas Sarkozy can be successful in his bid to be re-elected France's president in 2012.

No ramblings here, my friend. Just honest stories. That's what I do, and that's what I'm proud of. I hope you'll stick with me as these posts come up.

NYT has a new editor

2011-06-04T00:07:00.000-05:00

The New York Times announced Thursday that Jill Abramson is to succeed Bill Keller as the executive editor of the newspaper effective in September. Keller stepped down after seeing the paper through a difficult time throughout the media industry.

Abramson is the first woman to hold the position of executive editor in the paper's 160 year history. In addition with the move Dean Baquet takes Abramson's current position as Managing Editor.

Oxfam: EU must act on global food prices

2011-06-02T17:26:00.001-05:00

UPDATED June 2 2011 5:32pm CT

A new report from the international charity Oxfam suggests that the European Union is sleepwalking in response to rising global food prices.

The report, "Growing a Better Future", says that global food prices are to double within the next 20 years, and by 2050 that the food demand will rise 70%. The EU, Oxfam says, needs to implement policy to help revive agricultural sectors in developing countries. Oxfam has been meeting with EU officials leading up to this report and their GROW campaign and according to spokeswoman Angela Corbalan those meetings will continue.

"Even though Europe was the first to help developing countries during the 2008 food crisis by providing extra cash for agriculture, it continues pursuing policies that make the problem even worse," said Lies Craeynest, an EU policy advisor with Oxfam. "With a second global food crisis in the making, it is high time that the EU examines its own role in fueling global hunger." Craeynest adds that the EU can pave the way by fixing three items:

1. Reverse policies the EU has in place that turns food into fuel for cars.
2. Take on reckless financial speculators.
3. Renew its leadership on climate change.

The economic crisis, Craeynest says, hasn't made things easy, but the initiatives Oxfam is suggesting will not cost any additional money. "If, for example, support for biofuels based on food products would be reduced, money may be even freed up for more worthwhile investments," Craeynest adds. "And the crisis should also make it easier to get wider buy-in by EU leaders to come up with innovative ways to raise money, like a financial transaction tax, which could mobilize billions every year for domestic budgets and to support both smallholder farmers in poor countries and the fight against climate change."

"By acting now, through scrapping the biofuel target, tackling food speculation, acting on climate change and investing in small-scale farmers, the EU can avert tomorrow's global food crisis," Craeynest adds.

They've got it

2011-05-31T09:26:00.000-05:00

Winnipeg has an NHL team.

The deal is sending the Atlanta Thrashers to the city based in the Canadian province of Manitoba. The news just came through and is developing.

Updates will be made as soon as they are available.

Bin Hammam and Warner suspended

2011-05-29T12:29:00.000-05:00

FIFA has suspended membership of executive committee members Mohamed bin Hammam and Jack Warner after the ethics committee met Sunday. The committee, according to a BBC report, is now looking into allegations against the Caribbean Football Union.

No action is to be taken against the organization's current president, Sepp Blatter. It is now likely that Sepp Blatter will be re-elected president now that he is running unopposed.

Bin Hammam quits FIFA race

2011-05-28T20:38:00.000-05:00

The news agency Reuters is reporting that Mohamed bin Hammam has dropped out of the race to become FIFA's next president. This comes as the organization's ethics committee meets Sunday to examine bribery allegations against bin Hammam, former vice-chairman Jack Warner, and current president Sepp Blatter.

"I made the decision to run for the FIFA presidency because I was and remain committed to change within FIFA," bin Hammam said in a statement according to Reuters. "I wanted to spark a debate about change in FIFA. For the good of football, I wanted the future to be bright for our world's governing body and for it to adapt to the ever-changing world we live in today." He added that he could not let a name he loved be dragged further into the mud.

Now that bin Hammam is out, Sepp Blatter is running unopposed, and could be unanimously elected for a fourth term. That however might not happen, as it is at the discretion of the 208 member congress of FIFA.

Barcelona wins Champions League

2011-05-28T17:53:00.000-05:00

FC Barcelona defeated Manchester United 3-1 Saturday in London to win the Champions League. This is another defeat for Man United as they looked to get a fourth European Cup. Rooney scored the goal for Manchester United while Pedro, Messi, and Villa scored for Barcelona.

Sir Alex Ferguson praised Barcelona saying that they were the best team they ever faced.

The biggest weekend in football

2011-05-27T22:04:00.000-05:00

This is one of the biggest weekends ever for any football fan, and the sport itself. Across the weekend there are two key events that will shape the sport.

The first is the Champions League final on Saturday between Manchester United and FC Barcelona. Sir Alex Ferguson said today that Wayne Rooney's maturity will give the team the edge, according to a BBC article. We'll have to find out tomorrow at 7:45pm UK time (6:45pm GMT, 1:45pm CT) if his prediction is correct. Immediately after the game, the BBC World Service program "World Have Your Say" will have a special edition examining the game and getting reaction.

Then, on Sunday, FIFA president Sepp Blatter will go before the organization's ethics committee to face accusations of corruption. He will be joined by presidential candidate Mohamed bin Hammam and former vice chairman Jack Warner, who are also facing accusations. The committee is expected to release its verdict at 6pm CET (5pm BST, 4pm GMT, 11am CT).

This is a special weekend for the game and what will happen over the next couple of days will bring significant changes to it.

Vancouver's opponent is...

2011-05-27T21:47:00.000-05:00

...Boston.

The Boston Bruins have advanced to the Stanley Cup finals, defeating Tampa Bay 1-0 in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference finals. Boston scored just within the last few minutes of the third period. They will face the Vancouver Canucks for Lord Stanley's Cup.

Vancouver and Boston will begin the finals playing June 1st at Rogers Arena at 8pm ET.

Flaherty delivers new budget June 6

2011-05-27T09:41:00.001-05:00

UPDATED June 1 2011 11:46pm CT

It's been announced that the Canadian Finance Minister Jim Flaherty is to deliver the new budget on Monday, June 6th. Finance Canada spokeswoman Suzanne Prebinski said that the budget will be tabled at 4pm ET, and items up until that point are embargoed.

A government news release says that this will be part of Canada's Economic Action Plan that the government of Prime Minister Stephen Harper wants to implement.

A bit of silence next week

2011-05-27T09:29:00.000-05:00

This weekend is a bank holiday in the UK and Memorial Day in the US. Most operations would be shut down for this long weekend. I might be one of them. I might not. Nevertheless, you might see something on here over the weekend into Monday (and you deserve to: The Champions League Final is this weekend!).

But here is one item that is clear. You won't see anything on June 1st. I've got that day off because of my schedule of events that day. But know this, if you do send something, either by e-mail, this blog (by comment), Facebook, or on Twitter, I will see it and try to get back to you. I'm not ignoring you.

Even though I may not be in, I hope you'll keep this mighty blog company.

To those of you in the US and the UK, have a nice long weekend if you've got a big celebration. If you've got a big celebration this weekend and its not a public holiday, I hope you enjoy it too.

FIFA investigates Blatter

2011-05-27T09:21:00.000-05:00

FIFA's Ethics Committee has announced it is to open an inquiry against its current president, Sepp Blatter.

Blatter is expected to go before the committee on Sunday with former vice-chairman Jack Warner and presidential candidate Mohamed bin Hammam. The committee, according to an article from the British newspaper the Guardian, is expected to have a verdict at 6pm CET. In addition, the committee's independence allows investigation of any member of FIFA's committee.

Blatter, in the article, did not comment but said that he was unaware of the complaint filed and said that "the facts will speak for themselves". Chuck Blazer, an American, filed the complaint against Blatter.

This investigation comes in a crucial time for FIFA's leadership. The presidential election is to be held Wednesday, and the result of these hearings may cause significant changes before the congress meeting next week.

Ferguson wants Harris banned

2011-05-26T12:04:00.002-05:00

UPDATED May 26 2011 3pm CT

The manager of Manchester United Sir Alex Ferguson has been heard on mic suggesting a ban on the Associated Press reporter Rob Harris. This allegation comes after Harris asked a question about Ryan Giggs' importance to the team in the Champions League final match this weekend against FC Barcelona.

Initial reports suggest that Ferguson cannot ban a reporter, as the press conference was organized by UEFA and not the club. However, Manchester United spokeswoman Karen Shotbolt said that Harris had not been banned.

Mr. Murs, America is Waiting

2011-05-25T16:24:00.000-05:00

NOTE: Please enjoy a rarity in this blog, an opinion. The below are my own views.

This morning as I reviewed e-mails, I heard a song come on a station I listen to on-line. After it was over, I was surprised, wondering to confirm my suspicions on who the artist was. It just so happened that the artist in question came to my attention by a tweet through the Essex in the Media blog writer Zoe Nicholson.

His name is Olly Murs. Based in the eastern UK county of Essex, he was a finalist in the British television competition The X Factor. Viewers across the country became mesmerized with Murs' talent and charm, and his debut album was released last November.

The catchy, feel-good pop song of the morning, titled "Busy" (if you get an error try this link), deserves to be on the playlist of more than one BBC station (note to Radio 2). It's certainly on mine.

Vancouver advances to the Finals

2011-05-24T23:57:00.001-05:00

UPDATED May 24 2011 11:58pm CT

The city of Vancouver has exhaled. Now, the residents (and everyone in Rogers Arena) is in celebration mode.

The Vancouver Canucks have advanced to the Stanley Cup finals, defeating the San Jose Sharks 3-2. Kevin Bieksa had the winning goal. The Tampa Bay Lightning and the Boston Bruins are left to finish their series to determine who Vancouver will play.

Any precautions in North America?

2011-05-24T12:18:00.000-05:00

A volcano has erupted in Iceland causing travel distress around Europe. Flights within England and Scotland and to the UK have had to be cancelled as it makes its way through airspace across the continent. But are there precautions in place in North America? Not yet.

In Canada, the situation is being observed. "Although Transport Canada is closely monitoring this situation, there currently are no airspace restrictions in Canada as a result of this event," said a spokeswoman for Transport Canada. "When an event has the potential to significantly affect Canadian-managed airspace, NAVCanada will seek Transport Canada's approval to proceed with the appropriate course of action." NAVCanada oversees Canadian airspace. The spokeswoman added that flying through volcanic ash is hazardous.

The FAA for the United States did not respond to a request for comment.

BBC World Service still committed to sport

2011-05-24T12:03:00.003-05:00

UPDATED May 24 2011 7:17pm CT

As the BBC World Service continues to see cuts implemented across its networks and platforms, the commitment to quality is still maintained.

Last October, the Spending Review initiated in the UK by the Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne saw the World Service removed from the budget of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office as of 2014, transferring it to the BBC license fee, which pays for the corporation's domestic services. This came with the loss of 650 jobs, 5 foreign language services, and millions of listeners. There was a consensus that when these cuts were made public, these were not ones that wanted to be made. "We are making cuts in services that we would rather not be making," said Peter Horrocks, the director of BBC Global News, the division that oversees the World Service, in a press release. "But the scale of the cut in BBC World Service's Grant-in-Aid funding is such that we couldn't cope with this by efficiencies alone."

Every angle of programs were up for cuts, from news, business, science, arts, and even sport. In some areas the World Service has a contract with the UK Football Association to air games during the season. Yet, the cuts have not seen those events impacted. "[They are all] still in the schedule as before," says Penny Crook, a World Service spokeswoman.

In addition, according to an article from the British newspaper the Guardian, the FCO will be reviewing the cuts that were made to the World Service. Crook added that the corporation is "unaware of what form any review or reflection would take".

Are you a London 2012 ticket holder?

2011-05-23T23:20:00.000-05:00

Did you buy a ticket for the London 2012 games? Are you based in the UK? I want to hear from you.

I am looking into a statistic which says that 95% of Olympic ticket applications are UK-based. If you bought a ticket for the games and are based in the UK, I'd like to interview you. Here are a few easy ways to get my attention:

1. Leave a comment below.
2. Tweet me.
3. Leave a note on the Le Football Facebook page (click "Like" then leave your comment).
4. E-mail me. (Note the e-mail address is in that format to protect from spam).

I look forward to hearing from you!

BBC Radio 1 unveils music weekend

2011-05-23T14:00:00.000-05:00

UPDATED: May 23, 2011 10:57pm CT

The UK contemporary music station BBC Radio 1 is to hold a music weekend as part of the London 2012 Festival next year, it was announced today. The event, which is expected to have approximately 100,000 people in attendance, will be held in Hackney, a London borough.

In a release, the BBC plans to make this as multiplatform as possible, where UK viewers can watch on the BBC Three television channel and listen on Radio 1 and its sister station BBC Radio 1Xtra. International listeners would be available to listen on-line. "This is the most ambitious event in the station's 44 year history," the station's controller Andy Parfitt said in the release. "We aim to enhance the overall London 2012 summer with a celebratory event aimed specifically at the thousands of young people who live in the boroughs directly surrounding the Olympic Park." Parfitt added that this event has the support of the music industry and administration in the borough.

"This is an exciting opportunity for our residents to take part in the cultural side of the 2012 Games through the London 2012 Festival," the Mayor of Hackney Jules Pipe said in the release, adding that Hackney is a young and creative borough.

The event is to be held on June 23 and 24 of next year. Ways to get tickets will be announced in the coming months. The release added that this is part of the BBC's contribution to the Cultural Olympiad, with more details of events being announced later on.

One Republican In, Another Out

2011-05-22T23:58:00.001-05:00

Major news also came today out of the Republican Party in the United States, who hope to reclaim the seat currently held by President Barack Obama. Tim Pawlenty, a former governor of the Midwestern state of Minnesota, has announced he will run.

Yet, in the Midwestern state of Indiana, its governor, Mitch Daniels, who has been rumored to be running, confirmed that he will not stand for the election. Daniels, according to an article from the British newspaper the Guardian, was a beacon of hope for Republicans having skepticism about the current candidates.

These moves come after conservative radio host Herman Cain of the Southern state of Georgia announced yesterday he would run, joining former House of Representatives Speaker Newt Gingrich. Mitt Romney, the former governor of the Northeastern state of Massachusetts, has formed an exploratory committee.

Who would you want as Chelsea's new manager?

2011-05-22T23:45:00.000-05:00

With the removal of Carlo Ancelotti as manager Chelsea are now in the position to determine who should fill his shoes. But, do you, dear reader, have a suggestion for them? Do you think there is one person who should step in to help the club continue its success?

Do post your comments below.

Chelsea sack Ancelotti

2011-05-22T23:43:00.000-05:00

It was confirmed today that Chelsea FC sacked manager Carlo Ancelotti after almost two years with the club. This departure comes after Chelsea's 1-0 loss to Everton. Ancelotti, according to a BBC report, had one year left on his current contract.

"This season's performances have fallen short of expectations and the club feels the time is right to make this change ahead of next season's preparations," read a statement on the club's web site. "Chelsea's long-term football objectives and ambitions remain unchanged and we will now be concentrating all our efforts on identifying a new manager." The statement added that Ancelotti would still be welcome on the club's grounds.

The statement also added that no further comment would be made on the matter until the appointment of a new manager is complete.

A little detail about Victoria Day

2011-05-22T14:01:00.000-05:00

This weekend is a special weekend for Canada. It's not only a 4 day weekend, but day 4 (Monday May 23) is Victoria Day. It's the weekend (like Memorial Day weekend in the United States) that signals the start of summer. So, I thought that it would be appropriate for international readers to understand Victoria Day's meaning, and its importance to Canada. I also thought it would be appropriate considering this blog has support in Canada.

Canada is a Parliamentary democracy in addition to being a constitutional monarchy with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as head of state (and Governor General David Johnston as her representative). This day is to celebrate the birthday of Queen Victoria, in addition to the official birthday of the Queen. A law proclaiming that Queen Victoria's birthday be a holiday was passed in 1845, and when Queen Victoria died in 1901, the Parliament of Canada made it a legal holiday.

In addition, as mentioned above, it is a big travel weekend for Canadians. With higher traffic abound, the Canadian Border Services Agency put out this release to give helpful tips to anyone going to the U.S. over the long weekend. But, if you are not traveling this weekend, there are things going on across the country, including in Halifax, Nova Scotia, as I write this, the Blue Nose Marathon is going on. Places around Canada are also celebrating via various events.

This weekend is special to Canada. Victoria Day is special to Canada, and the weekend should be enjoyed by all. So, whatever you're doing this weekend, I hope you enjoy it.

I'd like your take

2011-05-21T22:24:00.000-05:00

Christine Lagarde, the French finance minister, is highly regarded as the front runner to succeed Dominique Strauss-Kahn as head of the International Monetary Fund. Strauss-Kahn resigned last week as he contends with sexual assault charges against a hotel maid in New York.

Britain's government has endorsed Lagarde, and according to the AP, Germany has also endorsed her.

But what do you think? Do you think Lagarde should run the IMF?

Please post your comments below.

An update on Winnipeg's NHL team

2011-05-20T00:16:00.001-05:00

UPDATED TO REFLECT TITLE ERROR May 20 2011 6:46pm CT

As I write this, there is no official confirmation that the Atlanta Thrashers have moved to Winnipeg.

A report from the American newspaper the Los Angeles Times says that a report from the Winnipeg Free Press said that the report in the Canadian newspaper Globe and Mail was inaccurate, and that a deal would be done within the next few days.

Winnipeg's got an NHL team

2011-05-19T20:27:00.001-05:00

A report from the Globe and Mail suggests that the Atlanta Thrashers NHL team are off to Winnipeg.

UPDATE: 8:30pm: The deal has not been finalized. Negotiations are still underway.

Medvedev will soon announce 2nd term bid

2011-05-19T16:41:00.000-05:00

The Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has said that he will soon be making an announcement as to whether or not he will seek a second term. In a transcript of the conference on a government web site, Medvedev said that political life is not a show.

"It is a complex job that, as I and many others involved in political life see it, has to follow certain rules and technical considerations," Medvedev said at a press conference at the Skolkovo Moscow School of Management. "The whole election process sets its own rules of the game, and I will follow them too. If I make such a decision, I will certainly announce it."

This announcement came amidst much speculation in Moscow of the tension between Medvedev and Prime Minister Vladimir Putin. In the conference, according to an article from the UK newspaper The Guardian, Medvedev said that he and Putin were allies.