See, it’s a good time to be in Singapore.
According to an article in Fortune magazine,
In Singapore, where SARS has infected more than 100 people and killed nine, the Catholic archbishop has forbidden priests to hear confessions. Until further notice, “general forgiveness” has been granted.
While in Vancouver, I happened upon one of the many peace rallies that had been occuring around the world. I must say, the anti-war groups definately seem to have the more colorful pagenatry associated with their protests. Definately look at the painting someone made of “W”, as a very good example.
Nonetheless, the whole concept of “No Blood for Oil” strikes me as being as phony as “Iraqi Liberation”. America has a mixed record regarding intervention on the liberation front, and there are definately easier, more diplomatic, and less expensive ways to procure oil supplies.
Did Saddam really have Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)? And, more important than even whether he did, is whether an proven suspicion combined with the fear that a future potential threat may exist are sufficient grounds to justify an invasion of another sovereign entity. Even if it turns out he did, and from today’s news reports (A stash of mobile labs were found buried, according to some early reports) that appears likely, I find the example that this provides to the world to be rather appalling. This doctrine, on the surface at least, would appear to greenlight invasions by hostile neighbors without waiting for the first attacks.
So, I thought I should update this with some remarks on my recent trip to Vancouver. Though I was only there for little more than three days, there were two components of the trip I enjoyed. The food, in particular this one Japanese restaurant in the center of town, and and a restaurant called Da Pasta Bar stand out. The Japanese food was affordably priced and consisted of a good selection of well-prepared food. I enjoyed it so much, I ate there twice! And the pasta restaurant had this pesto-chicken fettucine dish that was beyond fantastic.
The other piece of Vancouver I enjoyed was the high cultural value. A group of Vancouver actors and actress, for instance, are attempting to perform all of Shakespeare’s works (or at least the majority), on an informal basis. I happened to be lucky enough to be there on a weekend in which they were reading, and despite the lack of a set or, really, any costume, they put on an enjoyable performance. The independent cinemas and the museum pieces showcasing Vancouver artwork were also noteworthy.
Unfortunately, it did rain, or if not, threaten rain for nearly the entire trip. While I enjoyed Vancouver, and its well-integrated population, I’m not sure I could handle that year in and year out. But, I would certainly love to go back. Whistler, with its (apparently) fantastic skiing is just a two hour drive away. That alone makes a return trip worthwhile.
On another note, I’ll be heading to Quebec in about two weeks. I’m trying to prepare myself now for some French culture!
ttfn,
Chris
Whoops! Did I ever oversleep! Too much Zelda playing last night. I shouldn’t have stayed up until about 3 a.m., but the game is just so much fun!
Welcome to my new diary! This is (hopefully) going to be a more dynamic diary, one that I will be able to quickly and easily update, unlike the previous one. I am still completing several enhancements, but this will hopefully be completed soon. And, if all goes well, maybe one day I will add a feedback section. For the three users who actually visit my web site. 🙂