Representing the Green Party of BC in the May 2005 provincial elections was a great honor.
We found the results challenging but are excited by our chance for representation in the 2009 election. As Jim Harris commented, "our air campaign (i.e. PR) was strong in Point Grey but our ground campaign (i.e. GOTV) was under staffed."
Thank you to our team members, especially JM and Charlie, who devoted countless hours for months leading up to the election.
The campaign experience was invaluable and with a continued focus on innovative policy we are confident our impact will be felt within the legislative assembly in the near future.
I am on a learning and traveling sabbatical myself and encourage you to click on www.learningtheworld.com. I encourage you to support the Vancouver Greens in Novembers municipal elections - www.vancouvergreens.ca.
It is encouraging to see Mr. Campbell accelerate the move to reconcile with our First Nation partners and I am encouraged by his commitment to the democratic pursuit of electoral reform.
To all those working to improve our health and social programs I thank you.
To those of you reducing our collective impact and making a profit I thank you.
Feel free to drop me a line at damianbc@telus.net.
Sincerely,
Damian Kettlewell
2005 Green Party Candidate, Vancouver Point Grey
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
Monday, May 16, 2005
Eve of Election Day Reflections
Greetings on the eve of election night.
Thank you to the tireless efforts of our team in Vancouver Point Grey and across our province. Thank you to my family, friends and colleagues in Kits and Point Grey and around the world for your words of encouragement disregardless of the long odds we face. We embraced the underdog role in Vancouver Point Grey and do see rays of hope for tomorrow’s election.
Adrianne Carr and Dennis Perry are leading strong campaigns and are challenging for their seats in Powell River Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Garibaldi.
Janek Kuchmistrz has emerged as a Green contender in Vancouver Burrard with Stuart McKinnon, Raven Bowen, Lorrinda Earl and Ian Gregson running strong campaigns in their respective ridings. The future looks bright for the Green Party as we drew a number of articulate and empassionate youthful leaders like Ashley and Cody.
The Green Party of BC continues to mature and history could demonstrate that the 2005 Election will be remembered by the province as the election where Greens demonstrated their electability.
Our campaign in Vancouver Point Grey has been a whirlwind of activity. As predicted, Gordon Campbell maintained his Invisible Man shtick and insulted the ideals of democracy by failing to participate in any all candidates meeting. We were able to capitalize on his absence with events and releases that helped build awareness of the Green Party in Vancouver Point Grey. We have had over 80 stories published on our campaign some calling us vigourous and others calling us savy. We complemented this enhanced public awareness with grass root activities like door knocking and main streeting and the sum of these actions will translate into votes tomorrow.
Surprisingly Mel Leehan was an Invisible Man of sorts as he missed two opportunities to participate in candidate meetings in the riding (April ~ UBC Law School, May ~ Vancouver Real Estate Forum, Planetarium). I do respect Mel for his local community track record and his absence at Candidate Meetings was likely dictated by NDP head quarters who wanted to provide profile to other more electable candidates. Appreciated the kind words of the Georgia Straight but for some reason they failed to grasp the depth, professional credibility and youthful vision of sustainability within a generation that our campaign presented. I must digress briefly and say that the Georgia Straight's editorial critique of STV from a poverty perspective is hard to grasp considering that homelessness has doubled in Vancouver in three years under the current First Past the Post Electoral System.
Certain community leaders continued to lobby us to align with the NDP to ensure Gordon Campbell’s eviction from Vancouver Point Grey. Unfortunately, for the NDP and fortunately for the Liberals this time, the Green Party is a growing global party that thinks globally and acts locally. Interactions with elected Australian Greens and German Greens only cemented my belief that it is not a matter of if but a matter of when the Green Party of BC will be a major elected force in this province.
So after all the sweat, aches and tears of the campaign what will it equate to tomorrow?
Our goal since November 27, 2004 has been to double our vote total and crest the 10,000 vote mark. We entered this race to assume David’s role and remove Goliath from Vancouver Point Grey. If the youth demographic (18 - 40) has a record turnout, if enough of the elders of Vancouver Point Grey vote for their grandchildren and vote Green and if the stars are aligned we just might be able to surprise the public and pundits in Vancouver Point Grey.
Thank you to all those supporters and media outlets that have followed our campaign. We are the little campaign that could and it has been an honor to represent the Green Party of BC in Vancouver Point Grey.
We believe in long term social change and are focused on making history!
Remember to vote Yes for electoral reform and Yes to the Citizens Assembly and STV.
Damian & “The Green Machine” (Metro News, May 16, 2005) of Vancouver Point Grey
Thank you to the tireless efforts of our team in Vancouver Point Grey and across our province. Thank you to my family, friends and colleagues in Kits and Point Grey and around the world for your words of encouragement disregardless of the long odds we face. We embraced the underdog role in Vancouver Point Grey and do see rays of hope for tomorrow’s election.
Adrianne Carr and Dennis Perry are leading strong campaigns and are challenging for their seats in Powell River Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Garibaldi.
Janek Kuchmistrz has emerged as a Green contender in Vancouver Burrard with Stuart McKinnon, Raven Bowen, Lorrinda Earl and Ian Gregson running strong campaigns in their respective ridings. The future looks bright for the Green Party as we drew a number of articulate and empassionate youthful leaders like Ashley and Cody.
The Green Party of BC continues to mature and history could demonstrate that the 2005 Election will be remembered by the province as the election where Greens demonstrated their electability.
Our campaign in Vancouver Point Grey has been a whirlwind of activity. As predicted, Gordon Campbell maintained his Invisible Man shtick and insulted the ideals of democracy by failing to participate in any all candidates meeting. We were able to capitalize on his absence with events and releases that helped build awareness of the Green Party in Vancouver Point Grey. We have had over 80 stories published on our campaign some calling us vigourous and others calling us savy. We complemented this enhanced public awareness with grass root activities like door knocking and main streeting and the sum of these actions will translate into votes tomorrow.
Surprisingly Mel Leehan was an Invisible Man of sorts as he missed two opportunities to participate in candidate meetings in the riding (April ~ UBC Law School, May ~ Vancouver Real Estate Forum, Planetarium). I do respect Mel for his local community track record and his absence at Candidate Meetings was likely dictated by NDP head quarters who wanted to provide profile to other more electable candidates. Appreciated the kind words of the Georgia Straight but for some reason they failed to grasp the depth, professional credibility and youthful vision of sustainability within a generation that our campaign presented. I must digress briefly and say that the Georgia Straight's editorial critique of STV from a poverty perspective is hard to grasp considering that homelessness has doubled in Vancouver in three years under the current First Past the Post Electoral System.
Certain community leaders continued to lobby us to align with the NDP to ensure Gordon Campbell’s eviction from Vancouver Point Grey. Unfortunately, for the NDP and fortunately for the Liberals this time, the Green Party is a growing global party that thinks globally and acts locally. Interactions with elected Australian Greens and German Greens only cemented my belief that it is not a matter of if but a matter of when the Green Party of BC will be a major elected force in this province.
So after all the sweat, aches and tears of the campaign what will it equate to tomorrow?
Our goal since November 27, 2004 has been to double our vote total and crest the 10,000 vote mark. We entered this race to assume David’s role and remove Goliath from Vancouver Point Grey. If the youth demographic (18 - 40) has a record turnout, if enough of the elders of Vancouver Point Grey vote for their grandchildren and vote Green and if the stars are aligned we just might be able to surprise the public and pundits in Vancouver Point Grey.
Thank you to all those supporters and media outlets that have followed our campaign. We are the little campaign that could and it has been an honor to represent the Green Party of BC in Vancouver Point Grey.
We believe in long term social change and are focused on making history!
Remember to vote Yes for electoral reform and Yes to the Citizens Assembly and STV.
Damian & “The Green Machine” (Metro News, May 16, 2005) of Vancouver Point Grey
Monday, May 09, 2005
Community Outreach, Cambell 2.0, Making History
Greetings from the campaign trail. Apologies on the long absence. Please see our media and events page. We have been working hard to make history.
The Greens in Vancouver Point Grey are building voter coalitions and using an innovative communications strategy to engage with our competitors. What does that mean in plain language? Well, we are taking chances and looking for unlikely voting friends.
We need to double our vote total and are being outspent approximately 44 to 1 by the Liberals and 7 to 1 by the NDP. Thus, we are taking some calculated risks with a goal of drawing attention to our visionary Green Party Book and its policies. Residents in Vancouver Point Grey desire an MLA that is focused on sustainability, preventative health care, renewable energy, electoral reform and innovative economic policy. The Greens can deliver on these policy goals.
To put it on the table, I am multi-faith, pro choice and pro spousal benefits for same sex partners. Our community outreach efforts to the Christian community is an multi-faith based initiative that identifies cross over environmental values. We believe that reverence for environmental values crosses religious lines. Senator Bob Brown did point out that the Greens do have an element of natural spirituality in our personality. I will say as much at the Multiculturalism Debate tomorrow night at the Jewish Community Centre.
Now, you may have heard of our Campbell 2.0 launch. The demand for innovative political strategies in dealing with Gordon Campbell seems to be high considering that 12+ news outlets showed up on 3 hours notice. Gordon Campbell has not attended an all candidate’s debate since 1996 thus slighting the ideals of democracy and upsetting the electorate. Campbell 2.0 will return unless Gordon Campbell starts to engage with his constituents. Look forward to hearing about your response Mr. Campbell, Mr. Jiles and / or Mr. Brown.
The bottom line is that we simply want to debate Gordon Campbell and Mel Leehan.
Marty Brown is ensuring that Gordon Campbell remains the invisible man in Vancouver Point Grey. Gerry Scott and the NDP head quarters have been shielding Mel Leehan from debates. I missed engaging with Mr. Leehan in April at the UBC Law School Debate and two weeks ago at the Vancouver Real Estate Board Debate. Mel is a well know guy in Vancouver Point Grey. He certainly isn’t well know for his debate attendance record.
Well, all the door knocking, events and speeches are coming down to this final eight sleeps.With Adriane’s strong performance at the leaders debate the Greens in Vancouver Point Grey can feel the wind at our backs. Our campaign team can realize the Perfect Storm, obtain 10,500 votes and thus likely elect a Green MLA.
Why will it happen you say? The residents of Vancouver Point Grey desire an MLA that is grounded in ethics and blossoming with a vision for sustainability.
The Greens in Vancouver Point Grey are building voter coalitions and using an innovative communications strategy to engage with our competitors. What does that mean in plain language? Well, we are taking chances and looking for unlikely voting friends.
We need to double our vote total and are being outspent approximately 44 to 1 by the Liberals and 7 to 1 by the NDP. Thus, we are taking some calculated risks with a goal of drawing attention to our visionary Green Party Book and its policies. Residents in Vancouver Point Grey desire an MLA that is focused on sustainability, preventative health care, renewable energy, electoral reform and innovative economic policy. The Greens can deliver on these policy goals.
To put it on the table, I am multi-faith, pro choice and pro spousal benefits for same sex partners. Our community outreach efforts to the Christian community is an multi-faith based initiative that identifies cross over environmental values. We believe that reverence for environmental values crosses religious lines. Senator Bob Brown did point out that the Greens do have an element of natural spirituality in our personality. I will say as much at the Multiculturalism Debate tomorrow night at the Jewish Community Centre.
Now, you may have heard of our Campbell 2.0 launch. The demand for innovative political strategies in dealing with Gordon Campbell seems to be high considering that 12+ news outlets showed up on 3 hours notice. Gordon Campbell has not attended an all candidate’s debate since 1996 thus slighting the ideals of democracy and upsetting the electorate. Campbell 2.0 will return unless Gordon Campbell starts to engage with his constituents. Look forward to hearing about your response Mr. Campbell, Mr. Jiles and / or Mr. Brown.
The bottom line is that we simply want to debate Gordon Campbell and Mel Leehan.
Marty Brown is ensuring that Gordon Campbell remains the invisible man in Vancouver Point Grey. Gerry Scott and the NDP head quarters have been shielding Mel Leehan from debates. I missed engaging with Mr. Leehan in April at the UBC Law School Debate and two weeks ago at the Vancouver Real Estate Board Debate. Mel is a well know guy in Vancouver Point Grey. He certainly isn’t well know for his debate attendance record.
Well, all the door knocking, events and speeches are coming down to this final eight sleeps.With Adriane’s strong performance at the leaders debate the Greens in Vancouver Point Grey can feel the wind at our backs. Our campaign team can realize the Perfect Storm, obtain 10,500 votes and thus likely elect a Green MLA.
Why will it happen you say? The residents of Vancouver Point Grey desire an MLA that is grounded in ethics and blossoming with a vision for sustainability.
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
Green Candidate ~ Published in "Business in Vancouver" May 3 - 9, 2005
Business in Vancouver ~ May 3 - 9, 2005
Damian Kettlewell: Podium
B.C. firms weigh in at Hannover fuel cell exhibit
Hydrogen and fuel cell commercialization from a B.C. perspective
I just returned from the Hydrogen and Fuel Cells Trade Exhibit in Hannover, Germany, where from April 11 to 15 I was a forum moderator interviewing European, North American and Asian business leaders from the hydrogen sector.
The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Trade Exhibit was in its 11th year, and had more than 100 exhibitors from 20 countries presenting the entire value-added chain from hydrogen production to components and services all the way to complete fuel-cell systems.
The exhibition encompassed fuel-cell applications ranging from powering portables such as camcorders and laptops, to mobiles (vehicles, forklifts), to stationary power plants.
This year, commercialization moved more to the forefront, said exhibit producer Arno Evers: "We will see that the expressed desire to now also make money with this technology will play an ever increasing role."
Investors have reason to be optimistic, considering the costs of setting up a hydrogen infrastructure in Europe have been over-estimated in the past. Linde AG released a study that showed a complete European hydrogen infrastructure will cost $5.6 billion, significantly lower than previously estimated. "The results of the study are a clear signal to us," noted Linde CEO Wolfgang Reitzle. "Entry into the hydrogen economy is feasible."
A sumary of Linde AG's study can be found at www.fuelcells works.com/Supppage2138.html. The study points to the centralized production of hydrogen and distribution in highly populated areas. To propel the implementation of a hydrogen economy infrastructure, European companies are calling for the elimination of taxes on hydrogen until 2020.
This European scenario is similar to B.C.'s Hydrogen Highway and its seven refuelling stations, which are expected be operational in southwestern B.C. by 2010.
Among B.C.-based companies at the exhibit were Greenlight Technologies and FuelCon Systems, which are capitalizing on the plethora of fuel-cell companies that require equipment to test fuel cell components. Quest Air Technologies of Burnaby exhibited its hydrogen purification technology and representatives spoke about opportunities in Japan.
Hydrogenics of Ontario was the most prominent Canadian exhibitor as it demonstrated its stationary and mobile fuel cells in the same booth as Greenlight Technologies, one of their subsidiaries. Hydrogenics is evolving into Canada's largest and most stable hydrogen and fuel-cell company after acquiring Stewart Energy and its hydrogen manufacturing and refuelling technology.
Noticeably absent from the exhibitor list this year was Ballard Power. Ballard did send a number of representatives to the exhibit, but there was speculation that it is trying to contain cash burn levels until it has new technology benchmarks to demonstrate.
Two market opportunities that exist for B.C.'s hydrogen economy companies include fuel cells as auxiliary power units for long-haul trucks and technologies that capture waste hydrogen and re-integrate it into a separate manufacturing process.
The high cost of fuel and anti-idling regulations are making fuel cells attractive as a means to power the "hotel" units of long-haul trucks.
Currently, these long-haul trucks idle their diesel engines through the night to power their heating and internal appliances. A 5-kilowatt fuel cell would meet all the power requirements for long-haul trucks while they are parked.
Netherlands-based Nedstack is developing a niche application for hydrogen fuel cells in the production of chlorine that captures waste hydrogen and feeds it to a fuel cell. North Vancouver's planned hydrogen refuelling station in the Hydrogen Highway would operate from a similar waste-hydrogen model.
In an interview that covered the global state of the hydrogen economy, David Jollie, editor of Fuel Cells Today, called for "cautious optimism." The Japanese are setting the most aggressive goals, and now plan to have 50,000 fuel-cell cars on the road by 2010.
North American hydrogen economy companies are known for over-promising their technology achievements, as Ballard Power and Plug Power have consistently failed to meet technology performance benchmarks. European fuel-cell companies have been more cautious in their goals, and, as a result, the valuation of their publicly traded companies has been relatively consistent.
Earlier expectations about fuel-cell cars are still limited by technology challenges. Fuel cells must have an operational life of at least 5,000 hours (it is currently around 1,500 hours). And costs must be contained: platinum, one of the critical raw materials for fuel cells, costs between $1,600 and $3,200 per vehicle.
The hydrogen economy's classic "chicken and egg" challenge persists: to ensure long-term viability, a hydrogen production and distribution system needs to be built, even while the search for an economically sustainable fuel-cell vehicle goes on.
Research and development dollars continue to rise every year, and it is not a matter of "if," but simply "when" fuel cells will be integrated into our daily lives. Niche opportunities in the hydrogen value chain are present for those entrepreneurs who understand the relationship between the regulatory, taxation and energy drivers in North America, Asia and Europe.
Damian Kettlewell (hydrogenmedia@telus.net) is a Vancouver-based consultant specializing in renewable energy.
Damian Kettlewell: Podium
B.C. firms weigh in at Hannover fuel cell exhibit
Hydrogen and fuel cell commercialization from a B.C. perspective
I just returned from the Hydrogen and Fuel Cells Trade Exhibit in Hannover, Germany, where from April 11 to 15 I was a forum moderator interviewing European, North American and Asian business leaders from the hydrogen sector.
The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Trade Exhibit was in its 11th year, and had more than 100 exhibitors from 20 countries presenting the entire value-added chain from hydrogen production to components and services all the way to complete fuel-cell systems.
The exhibition encompassed fuel-cell applications ranging from powering portables such as camcorders and laptops, to mobiles (vehicles, forklifts), to stationary power plants.
This year, commercialization moved more to the forefront, said exhibit producer Arno Evers: "We will see that the expressed desire to now also make money with this technology will play an ever increasing role."
Investors have reason to be optimistic, considering the costs of setting up a hydrogen infrastructure in Europe have been over-estimated in the past. Linde AG released a study that showed a complete European hydrogen infrastructure will cost $5.6 billion, significantly lower than previously estimated. "The results of the study are a clear signal to us," noted Linde CEO Wolfgang Reitzle. "Entry into the hydrogen economy is feasible."
A sumary of Linde AG's study can be found at www.fuelcells works.com/Supppage2138.html. The study points to the centralized production of hydrogen and distribution in highly populated areas. To propel the implementation of a hydrogen economy infrastructure, European companies are calling for the elimination of taxes on hydrogen until 2020.
This European scenario is similar to B.C.'s Hydrogen Highway and its seven refuelling stations, which are expected be operational in southwestern B.C. by 2010.
Among B.C.-based companies at the exhibit were Greenlight Technologies and FuelCon Systems, which are capitalizing on the plethora of fuel-cell companies that require equipment to test fuel cell components. Quest Air Technologies of Burnaby exhibited its hydrogen purification technology and representatives spoke about opportunities in Japan.
Hydrogenics of Ontario was the most prominent Canadian exhibitor as it demonstrated its stationary and mobile fuel cells in the same booth as Greenlight Technologies, one of their subsidiaries. Hydrogenics is evolving into Canada's largest and most stable hydrogen and fuel-cell company after acquiring Stewart Energy and its hydrogen manufacturing and refuelling technology.
Noticeably absent from the exhibitor list this year was Ballard Power. Ballard did send a number of representatives to the exhibit, but there was speculation that it is trying to contain cash burn levels until it has new technology benchmarks to demonstrate.
Two market opportunities that exist for B.C.'s hydrogen economy companies include fuel cells as auxiliary power units for long-haul trucks and technologies that capture waste hydrogen and re-integrate it into a separate manufacturing process.
The high cost of fuel and anti-idling regulations are making fuel cells attractive as a means to power the "hotel" units of long-haul trucks.
Currently, these long-haul trucks idle their diesel engines through the night to power their heating and internal appliances. A 5-kilowatt fuel cell would meet all the power requirements for long-haul trucks while they are parked.
Netherlands-based Nedstack is developing a niche application for hydrogen fuel cells in the production of chlorine that captures waste hydrogen and feeds it to a fuel cell. North Vancouver's planned hydrogen refuelling station in the Hydrogen Highway would operate from a similar waste-hydrogen model.
In an interview that covered the global state of the hydrogen economy, David Jollie, editor of Fuel Cells Today, called for "cautious optimism." The Japanese are setting the most aggressive goals, and now plan to have 50,000 fuel-cell cars on the road by 2010.
North American hydrogen economy companies are known for over-promising their technology achievements, as Ballard Power and Plug Power have consistently failed to meet technology performance benchmarks. European fuel-cell companies have been more cautious in their goals, and, as a result, the valuation of their publicly traded companies has been relatively consistent.
Earlier expectations about fuel-cell cars are still limited by technology challenges. Fuel cells must have an operational life of at least 5,000 hours (it is currently around 1,500 hours). And costs must be contained: platinum, one of the critical raw materials for fuel cells, costs between $1,600 and $3,200 per vehicle.
The hydrogen economy's classic "chicken and egg" challenge persists: to ensure long-term viability, a hydrogen production and distribution system needs to be built, even while the search for an economically sustainable fuel-cell vehicle goes on.
Research and development dollars continue to rise every year, and it is not a matter of "if," but simply "when" fuel cells will be integrated into our daily lives. Niche opportunities in the hydrogen value chain are present for those entrepreneurs who understand the relationship between the regulatory, taxation and energy drivers in North America, Asia and Europe.
Damian Kettlewell (hydrogenmedia@telus.net) is a Vancouver-based consultant specializing in renewable energy.
Monday, April 18, 2005
Meeting the worlds 2nd most senior Green ~ Jurgen Trittin, German Federal Environment Minister
Leadership Reflections ~
Time with Jurrgen Tritton
April 18, 2005
After the Senator Brown Dr Suzuki day of confluence, I felt the winds of sustainability at my back on the way to Germany. Leaving the election team in this critical time was extremely difficult but to convince Vancouver Point Grey that I am worthy of their vote I must provide compelling reasons that I can help implement Sustainability Within a Generation.
Meeting and interviewing leaders in renewable energy at the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Trade Exhibit in Hannover did not disappoint. The highlight of the week came on day 4 when I met with Jurgen Tritton, Germany’s Federal Environment Minister who is an elected Green. Trittin is an international champion for wind energy and is implementing the will of the German people by phasing out nuclear energy. Tritton was eager to tell me about his upcoming trip to Montreal to discuss the progress with the Kyoto Accord. Trittin asked a number of questions about the Green Party in BC and wished us luck in the upcoming election. We will be sure to continue this relationship with the German Greens.
Thus you have it. Meeting Senator Brown, David Suzuki, and Jurgen Trittin all within two weeks. These gentlemen are icons in the sustainability movement.
How realistic is it for a first time candidate for the Green Party to remove the Premier from his home riding? All in a days work when you’re surrounding yourself with iconic figures in sustainability.
Time with Jurrgen Tritton
April 18, 2005
After the Senator Brown Dr Suzuki day of confluence, I felt the winds of sustainability at my back on the way to Germany. Leaving the election team in this critical time was extremely difficult but to convince Vancouver Point Grey that I am worthy of their vote I must provide compelling reasons that I can help implement Sustainability Within a Generation.
Meeting and interviewing leaders in renewable energy at the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Trade Exhibit in Hannover did not disappoint. The highlight of the week came on day 4 when I met with Jurgen Tritton, Germany’s Federal Environment Minister who is an elected Green. Trittin is an international champion for wind energy and is implementing the will of the German people by phasing out nuclear energy. Tritton was eager to tell me about his upcoming trip to Montreal to discuss the progress with the Kyoto Accord. Trittin asked a number of questions about the Green Party in BC and wished us luck in the upcoming election. We will be sure to continue this relationship with the German Greens.
Thus you have it. Meeting Senator Brown, David Suzuki, and Jurgen Trittin all within two weeks. These gentlemen are icons in the sustainability movement.
How realistic is it for a first time candidate for the Green Party to remove the Premier from his home riding? All in a days work when you’re surrounding yourself with iconic figures in sustainability.
Saturday, April 16, 2005
Leadership learnings - candidate meets Green Senator, Green Environment Minister and Greatest Living Canadian (CBC TV, 2004)
My leadership studies have taught me a few things.
#1
Identify leaders whom you respect and whom you can model
#2
Infiltrate these leadership mentor circles, observe, be humble
Over the last ten days I have felt a certain confluence in my leadership learnings.
First off I was able to spend an evening and morning with Senator Bob Brown an elected Green in the Australian federal senate. Leaders participate with grassroot community groups and use these experiences as a catalyst for growth.
Senator Bob spoke like a great orator sharing his experiences from the front line in working to preserve the great old growth rainforests of Tasmania. Senator Bob left a stable career as a medical doctor to promote the benefits of preserving the great rainforests of Tasmania and the on told biological treasures that they contain. With a focus on ethical leadership through the years (Senator Bob was named the most inspirational politican by te BBC in 1996) Senator Bob was able to stand up to the most powerful man on the planet, President George Bush, and boo him for his Iraq foreign policy.
Leaders make time for everyone, as does Senator Bob, and empower those around them to propel their personal vision forward. Senator Bob transformed me and allowed a new passion seed to pollinate within me. I need these transformational experiences with senior leaders to truely beleive that I can beat the Liberal candidate in Vancouver Point Grey who happens to be the Premier.
In a unforseen set of circumstances I was able to meet Dr. David Suzuki for the first time on the same evening I met Senator Bob. Considering I have read many of his books (Good News for a Change, From Naked Ape to Super Species to name a few), watched his show (The Nature of Things), and seem him speak a half dozen times meeting Dr Suzuki was like meeting a guru of sorts. Not suprisingly he is mortal being but wise beyond our knowledge. Hearing him speak of the Haida in the Queen Charolettes was stunning.
And yet another transformational experience had recently in Germany in the meeting of the great Jurgen Tritton. More to come on this latter.
From Berlin and Vancouver bound,
Damian
is that to evolve ones leadership skills one must infiltrate the ranks of senior leaders and model them.
#1
Identify leaders whom you respect and whom you can model
#2
Infiltrate these leadership mentor circles, observe, be humble
Over the last ten days I have felt a certain confluence in my leadership learnings.
First off I was able to spend an evening and morning with Senator Bob Brown an elected Green in the Australian federal senate. Leaders participate with grassroot community groups and use these experiences as a catalyst for growth.
Senator Bob spoke like a great orator sharing his experiences from the front line in working to preserve the great old growth rainforests of Tasmania. Senator Bob left a stable career as a medical doctor to promote the benefits of preserving the great rainforests of Tasmania and the on told biological treasures that they contain. With a focus on ethical leadership through the years (Senator Bob was named the most inspirational politican by te BBC in 1996) Senator Bob was able to stand up to the most powerful man on the planet, President George Bush, and boo him for his Iraq foreign policy.
Leaders make time for everyone, as does Senator Bob, and empower those around them to propel their personal vision forward. Senator Bob transformed me and allowed a new passion seed to pollinate within me. I need these transformational experiences with senior leaders to truely beleive that I can beat the Liberal candidate in Vancouver Point Grey who happens to be the Premier.
In a unforseen set of circumstances I was able to meet Dr. David Suzuki for the first time on the same evening I met Senator Bob. Considering I have read many of his books (Good News for a Change, From Naked Ape to Super Species to name a few), watched his show (The Nature of Things), and seem him speak a half dozen times meeting Dr Suzuki was like meeting a guru of sorts. Not suprisingly he is mortal being but wise beyond our knowledge. Hearing him speak of the Haida in the Queen Charolettes was stunning.
And yet another transformational experience had recently in Germany in the meeting of the great Jurgen Tritton. More to come on this latter.
From Berlin and Vancouver bound,
Damian
is that to evolve ones leadership skills one must infiltrate the ranks of senior leaders and model them.
Friday, April 08, 2005
Damian challenges Gordon Campbell to debate at all candidate forum
Let it be know that I've challenged Gordon Campbell on April 2 to a debate at an all candidate meeting.
I spoke with Campbells's campaign manager ... Matt really you could have at least opened up the door ... I don't like talking through a door.
I know that Campbell has a busy schedule but the least he can do is attend an all candidate debates in his own riding. He's got the advantage now as I'm out of the riding for 10 days.
I'm keeping my schedule open for you, post April 19, Gordon.
With respect from the airport,
Damian
I spoke with Campbells's campaign manager ... Matt really you could have at least opened up the door ... I don't like talking through a door.
I know that Campbell has a busy schedule but the least he can do is attend an all candidate debates in his own riding. He's got the advantage now as I'm out of the riding for 10 days.
I'm keeping my schedule open for you, post April 19, Gordon.
With respect from the airport,
Damian
Activity Update
March 28 ~ 25 Greens converge on the Elephant Walk for Lower Mainland social, 6 candidates present, Andrea Reimer gives rousing talk, Andrea's theme: compared to 2001 we are positioned incredibly well to win seats
April 2 ~ Green Team knocks on doors for 6 hours battling Liberals for key sign locations, we're on your tail there Matt (GC campaign mgr), 30 person Green social in evening
April 3 ~ Raven Bowen displays excellent competency at Poverty Forum debate, Raven presents poverty solutions, Guaranteed Livable Income, no Liberals in site, enjoyed your life story Tim Stephenson (NDP) but where are your solutions?
April 4 ~ candidate reflects on being MLA in wilderness location, balance is critical , I need to remember what propelled me into politics
April 5
~ meet with Hydrogen and Fuel Cell mover and shaker in Vancouver,
~ meet with one of many political allies, The Green Party believes in the state regulation off marijuana and the state taxation on production and distribution ... the BC Liquor Board is one model to consider for marijuana public management
~now let me make this clear ... I'm running to promote renewable energy, tax shifting, the Genuine Progress Indicator and sustainability within a generation ... The Green Party believes in long term social change and change in our attitudes to marijuana is one aspect of that ... we believe the feds are moving in the right direction ...
April 6 ~ David Suzuki confirms that he will introduce Senator Bob Brown, video shoot for website, Royal Roads U re-union "nothing like being around high achieving friends" ... Andy mentioned that he had a nice lunch with Kevin Falcon ... There's a man with Ralph Kleen`s ear ... have to work on making Andy Green though
The highlight of my year ... meeting David Suzuki ... Inspirational speaking ... Suzuki never stops ... we have some work to do yet before he ever supports us ... too bad Suzuki will NEVER endorse a political party ...
April 8 ~ off to Germany ... more elected Greens await!
April 2 ~ Green Team knocks on doors for 6 hours battling Liberals for key sign locations, we're on your tail there Matt (GC campaign mgr), 30 person Green social in evening
April 3 ~ Raven Bowen displays excellent competency at Poverty Forum debate, Raven presents poverty solutions, Guaranteed Livable Income, no Liberals in site, enjoyed your life story Tim Stephenson (NDP) but where are your solutions?
April 4 ~ candidate reflects on being MLA in wilderness location, balance is critical , I need to remember what propelled me into politics
April 5
~ meet with Hydrogen and Fuel Cell mover and shaker in Vancouver,
~ meet with one of many political allies, The Green Party believes in the state regulation off marijuana and the state taxation on production and distribution ... the BC Liquor Board is one model to consider for marijuana public management
~now let me make this clear ... I'm running to promote renewable energy, tax shifting, the Genuine Progress Indicator and sustainability within a generation ... The Green Party believes in long term social change and change in our attitudes to marijuana is one aspect of that ... we believe the feds are moving in the right direction ...
April 6 ~ David Suzuki confirms that he will introduce Senator Bob Brown, video shoot for website, Royal Roads U re-union "nothing like being around high achieving friends" ... Andy mentioned that he had a nice lunch with Kevin Falcon ... There's a man with Ralph Kleen`s ear ... have to work on making Andy Green though
The highlight of my year ... meeting David Suzuki ... Inspirational speaking ... Suzuki never stops ... we have some work to do yet before he ever supports us ... too bad Suzuki will NEVER endorse a political party ...
April 8 ~ off to Germany ... more elected Greens await!
Gordon Campbell losing ground in Vancouver Point Grey
You would think that Gordon Campbell would be a 'shoe in' in his home riding.
See:
http://www.thetyee.ca/Election/Battleground/
The Greens are building momentum in this 2001 2nd place riding.
We just hosted Green Senator Bob Brown from Australia, with a David Suzuki providing a compelling introduction, and I'm off to Germany to meet elected Greens at the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Trade Fair http://www.fair-pr.com/hm05/index.php .
A Green vote in Vancouver Point Grey is a vote for renewable energy, tax shifting, the Genuine Progress Indicator and sustainability within a generation.
A Liberal vote in Vancouver Point Grey is a vote for stopping the Kyoto Accord, lifting the offshore Oil and Gas Moretorium and unethical leadership.
A NDP vote in Vancouver Point Grey is a vote for a 3rd place party in this riding. It was nice to see the NDP candidate outside our Senator Bob Brown event. Maybe Carol James has asked him not to file his Elections BC papers.
From the airport,
Damian
See:
http://www.thetyee.ca/Election/Battleground/
The Greens are building momentum in this 2001 2nd place riding.
We just hosted Green Senator Bob Brown from Australia, with a David Suzuki providing a compelling introduction, and I'm off to Germany to meet elected Greens at the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Trade Fair http://www.fair-pr.com/hm05/index.php .
A Green vote in Vancouver Point Grey is a vote for renewable energy, tax shifting, the Genuine Progress Indicator and sustainability within a generation.
A Liberal vote in Vancouver Point Grey is a vote for stopping the Kyoto Accord, lifting the offshore Oil and Gas Moretorium and unethical leadership.
A NDP vote in Vancouver Point Grey is a vote for a 3rd place party in this riding. It was nice to see the NDP candidate outside our Senator Bob Brown event. Maybe Carol James has asked him not to file his Elections BC papers.
From the airport,
Damian
Saturday, April 02, 2005
4 year study (1,300 researchers from 95 countries) concludes "Tax Shifting" and "Renewable Energy" green initiatives are critically needed
Have a breeze through this article pulled off the BBC website.
Another compelling reason to vote Green in Vancouver Point Grey.
Hope to knock on your door today. DK
Study highlights global decline
By Jonathan Amos BBC News science reporter
Millennium Goals, such as the halving of world poverty by 2015, are off targetThe most comprehensive survey ever into the state of the planet concludes that human activities threaten the Earth's ability to sustain future generations.
The report says the way society obtains its resources has caused irreversible changes that are degrading the natural processes that support life on Earth.
This will compromise efforts to address hunger, poverty and improve healthcare.
The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MA) was drawn up by 1,300 researchers from 95 nations over four years.
This report is essentially an audit of nature's economy, and the audit shows we've driven most of the accounts into the red
Jonathan Lash, World Resources InstituteIt reports that humans have changed most ecosystems beyond recognition in a dramatically short space of time.
The way society has sourced its food, fresh water, timber, fibre and fuel over the past 50 years has seriously degraded the environment, the assessment concludes.
And the current state of affairs is likely to be a road block to the Millennium Development Goals agreed to by world leaders at the United Nations in 2000, it says.
"Any progress achieved in addressing the goals of poverty and hunger eradication, improved health, and environmental protection is unlikely to be sustained if most of the ecosystem 'services' on which humanity relies continue to be degraded," the report states.
"This report is essentially an audit of nature's economy, and the audit shows we've driven most of the accounts into the red," commented Jonathan Lash, the president of the World Resources Institute.
"If you drive the economy into the red, ultimately there are significant consequences for our capacity to achieve our dreams in terms of poverty reduction and prosperity."
Way forward
The MA is slightly different to all previous environmental reports in that it defines ecosystems in terms of the "services", or benefits, that people get from them - timber for building; clean air to breathe; fish for food; fibres to make clothes.
There will undoubtedly be gainsayers, as there are with the IPCC; but I put them in the same box as the flat-Earthers and the people who believe smoking doesn't cause cancer
Prof Sir John LawtonThe study finds the requirements of a burgeoning world population after WW II drove an unsustainable rush for these natural resources.
Although humanity has made considerable gains in the process - economies and food production have continued to grow - the way these successes have been achieved puts at risk global prosperity in the future.
"When we look at the drivers of change affecting ecosystems, we see that, across the board, the drivers are either staying steady or increasing in severity - habitat change, climate change, invasive species, overexploitation of resources; and pollution, such as nitrogen and phosphorus," said Dr William Reid, the director of the MA.
More land was converted to agriculture since 1945 than in the 18th and 19th Centuries combined. More than half of all the synthetic nitrogen fertilisers - first made in 1913 - ever used on the planet were deployed after 1985.
The MA authors say the pressure for resources has resulted in a substantial and largely irreversible loss in the diversity of life on Earth, with some 10-30% of the mammal, bird and amphibian species currently threatened with extinction.
The report says only four ecosystem services have been enhanced in the last 50 years: increases in crop, livestock and aquaculture production, and increased carbon sequestration for global climate regulation (which has come from new forests planted in the Northern Hemisphere).
Two services - fisheries and fresh water - are said now to be well beyond levels that can sustain current, much less future, demands.
Global value
The assessment runs to 2,500 pages and is intended to inform global policy initiatives. In many ways, it mirrors the work of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) which, by bringing together hundreds of scientists in a peer-reviewed process, has driven efforts to slow global warming.
MA - ASSESSMENT OVERVIEW
Humans have radically altered ecosystems in just 50 years
Changes have brought gains but at high ecosystem cost
Further unsustainable practices will threaten development goals
Workable solutions will require significant changes in policy"The MA is a very powerful consensus about the unsustainable trajectory that most of the world's ecosystems are now on."
"There will undoubtedly be gainsayers, as there are with the IPCC; but I put them in the same box as the flat-Earthers and the people who believe smoking doesn't cause cancer," said Professor Sir John Lawton, former chief executive of the UK's Natural Environment Research Council.
The report is not all doom and gloom. Modelling of future scenarios suggests human societies can ease the strains being put on nature, while continuing to use them to raise living standards.
At the heart of this assessment is a stark warning
Statement by MA board (1.47MB)
Most computers will open PDF documents automatically, but you may need to download Adobe Acrobat Reader.
Download and install the reader here
But it requires, says the MA, changes in consumption patterns, better education, new technologies and higher prices for exploiting ecosystems.
Some of the solutions go to old but as yet unfulfilled initiatives, such as the abolition of production subsidies which imbalance world trade and in agriculture are blamed for overloading land with fertilisers and pesticides as farmers chase high yields.
Newer solutions centre on putting a value on "externalities" that are currently deemed to be "free" - airlines do not pay for the carbon dioxide they put into the atmosphere; and the price of food does not reflect the cost of cleaning waterways that have been polluted by run-off of agrochemicals from the land.
PLANET UNDER PRESSURE
60% of world ecosystem services have been degraded
Of 24 evaluated ecosystems, 15 are being damaged
About 20% of corals were lost in just 20 years; 20% degraded
Nutrient pollution has led to eutrophication of waters and coastal dead zones
Species extinction is now 100-1,000 times above the normal background rateIn future, these areas could be constrained by markets that trade permits - as in Europe's newly established carbon emissions market.
Technology's role, the MA says, will be keenly felt in the field of renewable energies.
But the pace of change needs to quicken, the report warns. Angela Cropper, the co-chair of the MA assessment panel, added: "The range of current responses are not commensurate with the nature, the extent or the urgency of the situation that is at hand.
"In our scenarios, we see that with interventions that are strategic, targeted, and more fundamental in nature - we can realise some of the desired outcomes and they can have positive results for ecosystems, their services and human well-being."
The MA has cost some $20m to put together. It was funded by the Global Environment Facility, the United Nations Foundation, the David and Lucile Packard Foundation, the World Bank and others.
Another compelling reason to vote Green in Vancouver Point Grey.
Hope to knock on your door today. DK
Study highlights global decline
By Jonathan Amos BBC News science reporter
Millennium Goals, such as the halving of world poverty by 2015, are off targetThe most comprehensive survey ever into the state of the planet concludes that human activities threaten the Earth's ability to sustain future generations.
The report says the way society obtains its resources has caused irreversible changes that are degrading the natural processes that support life on Earth.
This will compromise efforts to address hunger, poverty and improve healthcare.
The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MA) was drawn up by 1,300 researchers from 95 nations over four years.
This report is essentially an audit of nature's economy, and the audit shows we've driven most of the accounts into the red
Jonathan Lash, World Resources InstituteIt reports that humans have changed most ecosystems beyond recognition in a dramatically short space of time.
The way society has sourced its food, fresh water, timber, fibre and fuel over the past 50 years has seriously degraded the environment, the assessment concludes.
And the current state of affairs is likely to be a road block to the Millennium Development Goals agreed to by world leaders at the United Nations in 2000, it says.
"Any progress achieved in addressing the goals of poverty and hunger eradication, improved health, and environmental protection is unlikely to be sustained if most of the ecosystem 'services' on which humanity relies continue to be degraded," the report states.
"This report is essentially an audit of nature's economy, and the audit shows we've driven most of the accounts into the red," commented Jonathan Lash, the president of the World Resources Institute.
"If you drive the economy into the red, ultimately there are significant consequences for our capacity to achieve our dreams in terms of poverty reduction and prosperity."
Way forward
The MA is slightly different to all previous environmental reports in that it defines ecosystems in terms of the "services", or benefits, that people get from them - timber for building; clean air to breathe; fish for food; fibres to make clothes.
There will undoubtedly be gainsayers, as there are with the IPCC; but I put them in the same box as the flat-Earthers and the people who believe smoking doesn't cause cancer
Prof Sir John LawtonThe study finds the requirements of a burgeoning world population after WW II drove an unsustainable rush for these natural resources.
Although humanity has made considerable gains in the process - economies and food production have continued to grow - the way these successes have been achieved puts at risk global prosperity in the future.
"When we look at the drivers of change affecting ecosystems, we see that, across the board, the drivers are either staying steady or increasing in severity - habitat change, climate change, invasive species, overexploitation of resources; and pollution, such as nitrogen and phosphorus," said Dr William Reid, the director of the MA.
More land was converted to agriculture since 1945 than in the 18th and 19th Centuries combined. More than half of all the synthetic nitrogen fertilisers - first made in 1913 - ever used on the planet were deployed after 1985.
The MA authors say the pressure for resources has resulted in a substantial and largely irreversible loss in the diversity of life on Earth, with some 10-30% of the mammal, bird and amphibian species currently threatened with extinction.
The report says only four ecosystem services have been enhanced in the last 50 years: increases in crop, livestock and aquaculture production, and increased carbon sequestration for global climate regulation (which has come from new forests planted in the Northern Hemisphere).
Two services - fisheries and fresh water - are said now to be well beyond levels that can sustain current, much less future, demands.
Global value
The assessment runs to 2,500 pages and is intended to inform global policy initiatives. In many ways, it mirrors the work of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) which, by bringing together hundreds of scientists in a peer-reviewed process, has driven efforts to slow global warming.
MA - ASSESSMENT OVERVIEW
Humans have radically altered ecosystems in just 50 years
Changes have brought gains but at high ecosystem cost
Further unsustainable practices will threaten development goals
Workable solutions will require significant changes in policy"The MA is a very powerful consensus about the unsustainable trajectory that most of the world's ecosystems are now on."
"There will undoubtedly be gainsayers, as there are with the IPCC; but I put them in the same box as the flat-Earthers and the people who believe smoking doesn't cause cancer," said Professor Sir John Lawton, former chief executive of the UK's Natural Environment Research Council.
The report is not all doom and gloom. Modelling of future scenarios suggests human societies can ease the strains being put on nature, while continuing to use them to raise living standards.
At the heart of this assessment is a stark warning
Statement by MA board (1.47MB)
Most computers will open PDF documents automatically, but you may need to download Adobe Acrobat Reader.
Download and install the reader here
But it requires, says the MA, changes in consumption patterns, better education, new technologies and higher prices for exploiting ecosystems.
Some of the solutions go to old but as yet unfulfilled initiatives, such as the abolition of production subsidies which imbalance world trade and in agriculture are blamed for overloading land with fertilisers and pesticides as farmers chase high yields.
Newer solutions centre on putting a value on "externalities" that are currently deemed to be "free" - airlines do not pay for the carbon dioxide they put into the atmosphere; and the price of food does not reflect the cost of cleaning waterways that have been polluted by run-off of agrochemicals from the land.
PLANET UNDER PRESSURE
60% of world ecosystem services have been degraded
Of 24 evaluated ecosystems, 15 are being damaged
About 20% of corals were lost in just 20 years; 20% degraded
Nutrient pollution has led to eutrophication of waters and coastal dead zones
Species extinction is now 100-1,000 times above the normal background rateIn future, these areas could be constrained by markets that trade permits - as in Europe's newly established carbon emissions market.
Technology's role, the MA says, will be keenly felt in the field of renewable energies.
But the pace of change needs to quicken, the report warns. Angela Cropper, the co-chair of the MA assessment panel, added: "The range of current responses are not commensurate with the nature, the extent or the urgency of the situation that is at hand.
"In our scenarios, we see that with interventions that are strategic, targeted, and more fundamental in nature - we can realise some of the desired outcomes and they can have positive results for ecosystems, their services and human well-being."
The MA has cost some $20m to put together. It was funded by the Global Environment Facility, the United Nations Foundation, the David and Lucile Packard Foundation, the World Bank and others.
Friday, April 01, 2005
Gordon Campbell resigns
April 1, 2005
Gordon Campbell resigns to focus on retirement leisure and a Healthy B.C.
After 20+ years in the public service, Gordon Campbell resigns amid a throng of supporters at the Jericho Youth Hostel. Mr. Campbell points to his economic successes but states that they have come at an environmental and social cost. Mr. Campbell’s advisors state, “our Premier is looking forward to healthy living in his retirement. There are legions of new young leaders running in this election that can implement sustainability within a generation. The Premier is tired of not being able to attract our greatest ‘living’ Canadian, David Suzuki, to work directly with his government. David Suzuki is invited to meet with government heads around the world and it depressing that he will not partner with Gordon Campbell considering that they are neighbors in Vancouver Point Grey.”
Damian Kettlewell, Green Candidate for Vancouver Point Grey, attended the press conference to thank Mr. Campbell for his years of public service and wish Mr. Campbell the best in his retirement. Mr. Kettlewell did say that he would be happy to consult with Mr. Campbell on economic issues but that he would seek alternate advise on social, health and environmental policies.
At his last press conference as Premier and MLA for Vancouver Point Grey Gordon Campbell announces: tax credits for renewable energy (i.e. wind and tidal power, micro hydro, and biodiesel), the end of old growth logging by 2010 (this mimics the New Zealand plan currently in place), fires Richard Neufeld for continuing to lobby for the removal of the offshore oil & gas moratorium, announces that all fish farms must be in closed containment nets on land by 2006, the implementation of locally elected health boards, a 25% tax on lawn & house pesticides, a carbon tax to phase out polluting vehicles and industry and Mr. Campbell announces the reversal of his position of Kyoto and the full endorsement of the forthcoming federal policy plan to acheive Canada's Kyoto goals.
Mr Campbell drives away from his last press conference in his new Toyoto Prius.
Enjoy the April day folks;).
People ask why I decided to run for office. There are a number of reasons:
Reason for running #1
Our provincial fish farm policy, started by the NDP and propagated by the Liberals, is KILLING our wild salmon.
See:
http://www.cbc.ca/story/science/national/2005/03/30/sea-lice050330.html
Executive Summary
A microscopic pest could cause big problems for British Columbia's salmon farming industry, a new study suggests.
In research published on Wednesday, biologists concluded sea lice populations are exploding off the province's coast, putting wild salmon stocks in jeopardy.
Reason for running #2
Check out “www.conservationvoters.org” if you value clean air, endangered species, clean water, and responsible stewardship of our natural environment then conservationvoters.org is a site for you. They had a lovely event last night. Liberals are still vacant and invisible.
Reason for running #3
http://www.westender.com/ Check out “A Green Tour of Kits Point”
We have had 20 media stories thus far.
If we are fortunate enough to attract 80 more media stories, we will win Vancouver Point Grey.
Reason for running #4
The Liberals seem to like our Healthy BC slogan … hmmm … Interesting to see our opponent at an event in the riding … hmmm … what is he promoting in our riding … could that be our Healthy BC message that Gordon Campbell.
They may be outspending us 40 to 1 BUT we are winning the street lobby.
This will be a wild weekend:
-knocking on a 1,000 doors
-speaking on poverty issues with Raven Bowen (Green candidate ~ Vancouver Mount Pleasant) on Sunday http://www.thefulcrumproject.org/
-attending the community participation session on Saturday
-Green Senator Bob Brown is in the province!
-off to Germany next week to work at the worlds largest Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Trade Fair
BTW ~ watch out for us Greens in West Vancouver Garibaldi and in Vancouver North Island!
Gordon Campbell resigns to focus on retirement leisure and a Healthy B.C.
After 20+ years in the public service, Gordon Campbell resigns amid a throng of supporters at the Jericho Youth Hostel. Mr. Campbell points to his economic successes but states that they have come at an environmental and social cost. Mr. Campbell’s advisors state, “our Premier is looking forward to healthy living in his retirement. There are legions of new young leaders running in this election that can implement sustainability within a generation. The Premier is tired of not being able to attract our greatest ‘living’ Canadian, David Suzuki, to work directly with his government. David Suzuki is invited to meet with government heads around the world and it depressing that he will not partner with Gordon Campbell considering that they are neighbors in Vancouver Point Grey.”
Damian Kettlewell, Green Candidate for Vancouver Point Grey, attended the press conference to thank Mr. Campbell for his years of public service and wish Mr. Campbell the best in his retirement. Mr. Kettlewell did say that he would be happy to consult with Mr. Campbell on economic issues but that he would seek alternate advise on social, health and environmental policies.
At his last press conference as Premier and MLA for Vancouver Point Grey Gordon Campbell announces: tax credits for renewable energy (i.e. wind and tidal power, micro hydro, and biodiesel), the end of old growth logging by 2010 (this mimics the New Zealand plan currently in place), fires Richard Neufeld for continuing to lobby for the removal of the offshore oil & gas moratorium, announces that all fish farms must be in closed containment nets on land by 2006, the implementation of locally elected health boards, a 25% tax on lawn & house pesticides, a carbon tax to phase out polluting vehicles and industry and Mr. Campbell announces the reversal of his position of Kyoto and the full endorsement of the forthcoming federal policy plan to acheive Canada's Kyoto goals.
Mr Campbell drives away from his last press conference in his new Toyoto Prius.
Enjoy the April day folks;).
People ask why I decided to run for office. There are a number of reasons:
Reason for running #1
Our provincial fish farm policy, started by the NDP and propagated by the Liberals, is KILLING our wild salmon.
See:
http://www.cbc.ca/story/science/national/2005/03/30/sea-lice050330.html
Executive Summary
A microscopic pest could cause big problems for British Columbia's salmon farming industry, a new study suggests.
In research published on Wednesday, biologists concluded sea lice populations are exploding off the province's coast, putting wild salmon stocks in jeopardy.
Reason for running #2
Check out “www.conservationvoters.org” if you value clean air, endangered species, clean water, and responsible stewardship of our natural environment then conservationvoters.org is a site for you. They had a lovely event last night. Liberals are still vacant and invisible.
Reason for running #3
http://www.westender.com/ Check out “A Green Tour of Kits Point”
We have had 20 media stories thus far.
If we are fortunate enough to attract 80 more media stories, we will win Vancouver Point Grey.
Reason for running #4
The Liberals seem to like our Healthy BC slogan … hmmm … Interesting to see our opponent at an event in the riding … hmmm … what is he promoting in our riding … could that be our Healthy BC message that Gordon Campbell.
They may be outspending us 40 to 1 BUT we are winning the street lobby.
This will be a wild weekend:
-knocking on a 1,000 doors
-speaking on poverty issues with Raven Bowen (Green candidate ~ Vancouver Mount Pleasant) on Sunday http://www.thefulcrumproject.org/
-attending the community participation session on Saturday
-Green Senator Bob Brown is in the province!
-off to Germany next week to work at the worlds largest Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Trade Fair
BTW ~ watch out for us Greens in West Vancouver Garibaldi and in Vancouver North Island!
Friday, March 25, 2005
Signing up new members on the Left and on the Right
Nothing like having momentum on our side.
Over forty new members signed up in last two weeks.
Our grassroots form of campaigning can beat the $100,000 phoning campaign that Gordon Campbell has underway in Vancouver Point Grey.
They've actually phoning our campaign team as well.
From what we're hearing people are seeing through the environmental good news that the Liberals are starting to release. Great to see Cathedral Grove on the Tofino highway enlarged to 500 acres. Imagine that the Liberals will look to highlight the impending Great Bear Rainforest announcement as well. Don't get me wrong preserving these rainforests is the best news that I've heard all week (it was good to get my car filled up on waste vegetable oil again and be running Green House Gas neutral as well). But you have to wonder about the timing of all these Green annoucements. The Liberals are scared in Vancouver Point Grey. They know the people want to send some Green MLA's to Victoria. Wouldn't it be great if Gordon Campbell had to force one of his colleagues to vacate their riding seat so he could sit in the house.
I can't wait to champion renewable energy and preventative health care in the house.
It was another non stop week.
Rafe Mair show ~ Rafe was easy on us first time candidates (Gregor and I), I loved how he blasted the Liberals for not sending anyone and asking Rafe not to do the show, I was strong on fish farms but considering my economics background I should have hit a home run on the budget question, next time
UBC tabling ~ we're trucking along and building support for the Green Party across the lower mainland
UBC Law School Environmental Policy Forum ~ felt pretty good about the debate, check out the photo, it was a frightening hommogenous group of candidates, can't wait to see the gender diverse Greens in Vancouver Quilchena and Vancouver Mount Pleasant stir it up ... we signed up 6 new members after the debate .... I must of done all right ... there was no real winner though
Good news ~ our phamplets are ready, watch for them, they're sharp, thanks Chris!
Canvassing tommorrow ~ call us if interested, we're going to knock on 1000 doors tommorrow
Today
-Critical Mass Bike Rally 4 PM
Saturday
-canvassing ~ 1000 doors will be knocked on, see us at Capers
-Better World Handbook Festival tommorrow afternoon / evening
Tuesday, 7 PM
-Lower mainland Green Team social @ The Elephant Walk Pub (41st & Knight)
-Andrea Reimer will be speaking at 7:15 PM
Wednesday, noon
-Raven Bowen's campaign launch party at the Lotus Hotel
Friday, 2 PM
-teachers union social at Toby's Pub on Commercial Dr.
Sunday April 3, 2PM
-I'll be speaking on poverty issues at the Wosk Centre for International Dialouge
-Imagine that the Liberals will be invisible like our breeding spotted owl population in Chilliwack
We came 2nd in Vancouver Point Grey in 2001 so if you want to remove Gordon Campbell we suggest you vote Green in 52 days.
Cheers,
Damian
Over forty new members signed up in last two weeks.
Our grassroots form of campaigning can beat the $100,000 phoning campaign that Gordon Campbell has underway in Vancouver Point Grey.
They've actually phoning our campaign team as well.
From what we're hearing people are seeing through the environmental good news that the Liberals are starting to release. Great to see Cathedral Grove on the Tofino highway enlarged to 500 acres. Imagine that the Liberals will look to highlight the impending Great Bear Rainforest announcement as well. Don't get me wrong preserving these rainforests is the best news that I've heard all week (it was good to get my car filled up on waste vegetable oil again and be running Green House Gas neutral as well). But you have to wonder about the timing of all these Green annoucements. The Liberals are scared in Vancouver Point Grey. They know the people want to send some Green MLA's to Victoria. Wouldn't it be great if Gordon Campbell had to force one of his colleagues to vacate their riding seat so he could sit in the house.
I can't wait to champion renewable energy and preventative health care in the house.
It was another non stop week.
Rafe Mair show ~ Rafe was easy on us first time candidates (Gregor and I), I loved how he blasted the Liberals for not sending anyone and asking Rafe not to do the show, I was strong on fish farms but considering my economics background I should have hit a home run on the budget question, next time
UBC tabling ~ we're trucking along and building support for the Green Party across the lower mainland
UBC Law School Environmental Policy Forum ~ felt pretty good about the debate, check out the photo, it was a frightening hommogenous group of candidates, can't wait to see the gender diverse Greens in Vancouver Quilchena and Vancouver Mount Pleasant stir it up ... we signed up 6 new members after the debate .... I must of done all right ... there was no real winner though
Good news ~ our phamplets are ready, watch for them, they're sharp, thanks Chris!
Canvassing tommorrow ~ call us if interested, we're going to knock on 1000 doors tommorrow
Today
-Critical Mass Bike Rally 4 PM
Saturday
-canvassing ~ 1000 doors will be knocked on, see us at Capers
-Better World Handbook Festival tommorrow afternoon / evening
Tuesday, 7 PM
-Lower mainland Green Team social @ The Elephant Walk Pub (41st & Knight)
-Andrea Reimer will be speaking at 7:15 PM
Wednesday, noon
-Raven Bowen's campaign launch party at the Lotus Hotel
Friday, 2 PM
-teachers union social at Toby's Pub on Commercial Dr.
Sunday April 3, 2PM
-I'll be speaking on poverty issues at the Wosk Centre for International Dialouge
-Imagine that the Liberals will be invisible like our breeding spotted owl population in Chilliwack
We came 2nd in Vancouver Point Grey in 2001 so if you want to remove Gordon Campbell we suggest you vote Green in 52 days.
Cheers,
Damian
Monday, March 21, 2005
The momentum continues to grow
Another exhilarating week on the campaign trail.We started again at UBC and were happy to see our efforts pay off with positive coverage in their print and the radio. Thanks to Dan from CiTR's Solarization as his tough questions will only help the Baptism of Fire on Rafe Mair's show tomorrow morning.
Our Whistler trip to meet with a Guru of Sustainability, Mayor O'Reilly, has paid dividends with a positive story in the Whistler Pique.You have to love those elected officials who welcome public discourse on issues of sustainability and The Natural Step regardless of partisan stripe.
Had some television time this week on Community TV. Pedro, the interviewer, is one of the most sincere and socially caring individuals that I have met in some time. It was fascinating to learn about perpetual polling. Sorry Pedro, we are pragmatic in Vancouver Point Grey. We have the opportunity to make small positive changes to our electoral system now. Any moderate move to more proportionality is a move in the right direction. Check out Channel 4 next Saturday at 6 PM or Sunday at 9PM. Drop me a line and tell me what you think.
We want to walk the talk at UBC and thus The Green Party Team entered in Canada's largest intramural event, "Storm the Wall" and came 2nd in our heat. It was nice to meet Mel. He seems like a nice man. I wonder how many of his younger than 40 supporters will end up voting Green in Vancouver Point Grey.
This week will be a barnburner. Coffee and conversation party tomorrow night. There are some very sharp environmental and media professionals coming over. Imagine the Q&A session will resemble a Natural Step Masters Program class in Sweden.
UBC, canvassing, and UBC Law School Environmental on Wednesday this week. The Liberals are avoiding us like the plague right now. No show at the HEU, no show on Rafe tommorrow I understand and no show at UBC Law School debate last I heard. Hmm what does that say about they're respect for democracy.
Here's to Stephen Abbott Communications and to squashing Pitfall Number Five for First Time Political Candidates (running to lose) ... Jim Green lost by 1463 votes in 1996.
I did not leave a good job to lose this election.
Drop us a line to co-create history in Vancouver Point Grey.
Sincerely,
Damian
Our Whistler trip to meet with a Guru of Sustainability, Mayor O'Reilly, has paid dividends with a positive story in the Whistler Pique.You have to love those elected officials who welcome public discourse on issues of sustainability and The Natural Step regardless of partisan stripe.
Had some television time this week on Community TV. Pedro, the interviewer, is one of the most sincere and socially caring individuals that I have met in some time. It was fascinating to learn about perpetual polling. Sorry Pedro, we are pragmatic in Vancouver Point Grey. We have the opportunity to make small positive changes to our electoral system now. Any moderate move to more proportionality is a move in the right direction. Check out Channel 4 next Saturday at 6 PM or Sunday at 9PM. Drop me a line and tell me what you think.
We want to walk the talk at UBC and thus The Green Party Team entered in Canada's largest intramural event, "Storm the Wall" and came 2nd in our heat. It was nice to meet Mel. He seems like a nice man. I wonder how many of his younger than 40 supporters will end up voting Green in Vancouver Point Grey.
This week will be a barnburner. Coffee and conversation party tomorrow night. There are some very sharp environmental and media professionals coming over. Imagine the Q&A session will resemble a Natural Step Masters Program class in Sweden.
UBC, canvassing, and UBC Law School Environmental on Wednesday this week. The Liberals are avoiding us like the plague right now. No show at the HEU, no show on Rafe tommorrow I understand and no show at UBC Law School debate last I heard. Hmm what does that say about they're respect for democracy.
Here's to Stephen Abbott Communications and to squashing Pitfall Number Five for First Time Political Candidates (running to lose) ... Jim Green lost by 1463 votes in 1996.
I did not leave a good job to lose this election.
Drop us a line to co-create history in Vancouver Point Grey.
Sincerely,
Damian
Sunday, March 13, 2005
63 days to go
Evening,
Blazing away on the campaign trail.
A dessert party ~ #3 they're getting bigger and better, 20 voters
Wine and cheese at Campoverde ~ hosted by a few of the Weiler's, 35 voters
Meeting with the Mayor of Whistler ~ a sustainability sage of sorts
A Tree Trek in Whistler with guided tour by Charles ~ ZipTrek / TreeTrek ... you have to love a company that promotes sustainability and creates 103 full time jobs
UBC campainging ~ UBC does hold the balance of power
Canvassing through polls 22 & 23 ~ the positive response in this poll is incredible, people are signing up for memberships and making donations (News Flash: George Puil is supporting the Liberal candidate, no real suprise, Mr. Puil put in decades of public service ~ thx, he does note the rise of Green Parties around the world, sure hope politics doesn't mean that my garden will be fertilized by someone)
Campaigning and yoga ~ Eoin Fynn, love the support from Vancouver's reflective and belly laughing yoga instructor champion, 45 voters
Campaigning at Jason Mogus house warming ~ an unexpected and brief chat, there's a guy who's changing the world on line for the better
Candidate training video's: The Candidate, Primary Colors, Bob Roberts
Candidate schedule this week:
CiTR interview, UBC Campaigning, Energy lunch, poll 45 canvassing, candidate coaching session, WCWC election event, Public Education Forum
7 wine and cheese ~ coffee and conversation parties on the schedule ... let me know if you'd like to attend one
Out of the blog and into the campaign,
Damian
Blazing away on the campaign trail.
A dessert party ~ #3 they're getting bigger and better, 20 voters
Wine and cheese at Campoverde ~ hosted by a few of the Weiler's, 35 voters
Meeting with the Mayor of Whistler ~ a sustainability sage of sorts
A Tree Trek in Whistler with guided tour by Charles ~ ZipTrek / TreeTrek ... you have to love a company that promotes sustainability and creates 103 full time jobs
UBC campainging ~ UBC does hold the balance of power
Canvassing through polls 22 & 23 ~ the positive response in this poll is incredible, people are signing up for memberships and making donations (News Flash: George Puil is supporting the Liberal candidate, no real suprise, Mr. Puil put in decades of public service ~ thx, he does note the rise of Green Parties around the world, sure hope politics doesn't mean that my garden will be fertilized by someone)
Campaigning and yoga ~ Eoin Fynn, love the support from Vancouver's reflective and belly laughing yoga instructor champion, 45 voters
Campaigning at Jason Mogus house warming ~ an unexpected and brief chat, there's a guy who's changing the world on line for the better
Candidate training video's: The Candidate, Primary Colors, Bob Roberts
Candidate schedule this week:
CiTR interview, UBC Campaigning, Energy lunch, poll 45 canvassing, candidate coaching session, WCWC election event, Public Education Forum
7 wine and cheese ~ coffee and conversation parties on the schedule ... let me know if you'd like to attend one
Out of the blog and into the campaign,
Damian
Tuesday, March 08, 2005
Post Secondary Education
The BC Green Party is committed to eliminating all postsecondary tuition fees. This would be phased in over time, but is necessary to allow improved access for all British Columbians to higher education. When Gordon Campbell came to power in 2001, he promised a 5% reduction in tuition fees. Instead his government has doubled tuition fees for all postsecondary students over the past four years. Three months before the election he’s promising to tie future tuition increases to inflation only. Do you believe him?
What’s worse is that none of the money from tuition fee increases has gone into education funding. In 2001, tuition fees were $450 million and postsecondary funding was $1.8 billion. Today, tuition fees are $900 million and postsecondary funding is still $1.8 billion. So where did the students’ money go? To pay for corporate and high-income earner tax cuts, of course. So let’s get rid of Gordon Campbell! For a candidate committed to higher education, vote for Damian Kettlewell and the Green Party!”
Come out Thursday, 7:00 - 9:00 PM to the Campoverde Social Club 1660 Cypress St (1st Ave in Kits) ... see you then, Damian
What’s worse is that none of the money from tuition fee increases has gone into education funding. In 2001, tuition fees were $450 million and postsecondary funding was $1.8 billion. Today, tuition fees are $900 million and postsecondary funding is still $1.8 billion. So where did the students’ money go? To pay for corporate and high-income earner tax cuts, of course. So let’s get rid of Gordon Campbell! For a candidate committed to higher education, vote for Damian Kettlewell and the Green Party!”
Come out Thursday, 7:00 - 9:00 PM to the Campoverde Social Club 1660 Cypress St (1st Ave in Kits) ... see you then, Damian
Wednesday, March 02, 2005
Pre - writ reflections 1
Good evening,
Welcome to the inaugural blog posting for my campaign in Vancouver Point Grey.
I was reflecting on what sort of opponent I am up against in Gordon Campbell who is the incumbent in Vancouver Point Grey. Well one thing is for sure, he has a ton of money to spend.
Heck, the Liberals outspent the Greens by over $140,000 in the 2001 election in this riding alone.
How could I possibly win considering that amount of campaign spending by Gordon Campbell?
Then I got to thinking - how much did it cost Gordon Campbell for each of his votes? Well folks, it works out that each vote cast for Gordon Campbell cost his campaign over $10.
Then the light went off ... how much did each Green vote cost in 2001?
Well, the Greens in this riding spent $0.28 cents per vote ... that's right only 28 cents per vote ...
And that won the Green candidate over 21% of the vote!
It made me realize that the Green Party message resonates deeply with voters here.
It also gave me optimism that no matter how much Gordon Campbell spends on his re-election the Green Party still has a good chance of defeating him in this riding.
I'm really excited to get out and meet more folks in my neighbourhood and talk about what's important to them.
Please feel free to post your thoughts and concerns about issues important to you. Let's kick off this campaign and get the discussion going.
Cheers,
Damian
Welcome to the inaugural blog posting for my campaign in Vancouver Point Grey.
I was reflecting on what sort of opponent I am up against in Gordon Campbell who is the incumbent in Vancouver Point Grey. Well one thing is for sure, he has a ton of money to spend.
Heck, the Liberals outspent the Greens by over $140,000 in the 2001 election in this riding alone.
How could I possibly win considering that amount of campaign spending by Gordon Campbell?
Then I got to thinking - how much did it cost Gordon Campbell for each of his votes? Well folks, it works out that each vote cast for Gordon Campbell cost his campaign over $10.
Then the light went off ... how much did each Green vote cost in 2001?
Well, the Greens in this riding spent $0.28 cents per vote ... that's right only 28 cents per vote ...
And that won the Green candidate over 21% of the vote!
It made me realize that the Green Party message resonates deeply with voters here.
It also gave me optimism that no matter how much Gordon Campbell spends on his re-election the Green Party still has a good chance of defeating him in this riding.
I'm really excited to get out and meet more folks in my neighbourhood and talk about what's important to them.
Please feel free to post your thoughts and concerns about issues important to you. Let's kick off this campaign and get the discussion going.
Cheers,
Damian
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