London's Bicentennial (Snippet 13)

    I have been away for a bit and slow to resume blogging. I am lacking in the creative energy required for even the most mundane of posts and am not lacking in other things that I should be doing instead. Still the resumption will be attempted and I will begin with another London item and you will now have been given a baker's dozen of them. 

  This one occurred just over one hundred years ago when two men were hanged in London on the same day in 1924 and the report is found in the Casper Daily Tribune (Wyoming). Mr. Murrell killed someone while robbing a bank in Melbourne. Mr. Topping murdered his girlfriend.

The Bonus:
   Since I don't feel like doing those other things mentioned, I will offer here an editorial comment since it is a "reactionary" one that I would prefer go unnoticed. Perhaps we should bring back hanging as a punishment. That sounds harsh, but I am not advocating hanging all criminals, just those who are guilty of crimes, such as stealing from public institutions, as opposed to private corporations, where more leniency could be justified. 
  Given that this is a London snippet, here is an example from London:
"Alleged fraud worth $60M uncovered at London Health Sciences Centre,".
   "An audit has uncovered a decade-long fraud at the region's largest hospital network with the London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) filing two separate lawsuits implicating five former executives, a contractor and companies hired to do work.
   The lawsuits total more than $60 million and allege that some executives knew about the scheme and did nothing to stop it. One of the lawsuits also links more than 60 "suspicious properties" worth almost $20M to three people involved in the alleged scheme, purchased after multi-million dollar contracts were awarded by the hospital....
"The Fraudulent Scheme was a calculated, multi-year campaign of deceit and theft, deliberately engineered to misappropriate public funds for personal and unlawful gain," the lawsuit that was filed Wednesday alleges."

  It was announced more recently that 288 Registered Nurses at the LHSC were going to be laid off, a not unrelated development. 

  Admittedly, hanging is a bit harsh for our time, but perhaps we could at least bring back the pillory and erect a few of them at the intersection of Wellington and Commissioners where the guilty could be displayed for a very long time and even in the winter. 
Sources:
  The article quoted above is by Kate Dubinski, CBC News, July 9, 2025.
  For more about hangings in London see "Hanging Days" by the late Christopher Doty. 
  For more about hanging generally, see "The Gibbet".

London's Bicentennial (Snippet 12)

    It is a chilly morning out here in Courtenay, B.C., so I will attempt to post a short post about an astronaut who was born in London and is now safely back on earth.

JEREMY HANSEN
  There has been plenty of local news about Hansen, but here is an article about him from an American source.  And to add even more CANCON, the piece is written by Mike Neufeld, an Albertan.

“Jeremy R. Hansen: First Canadian In Deep Space."
  From a blog post "Smithsonian Voices” linked in the Smithsonian Magazine, March 31, 2026.
   "Born in 1976 in London, Ontario, Jeremy Hansen cannot remember a time when he did not dream of being an astronaut. And now, as member of the crew of Artemis 2, he will see the far side of the Moon as they loop around it.
   During Hansen’s youth, it became increasingly possible to imagine a Canadian doing such a thing. Marc Garneau became the first Canadian in space in 1984, when he flew on STS-41G as a payload specialist. NASA had made that seat available because the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) provided the Canadarm Remote Manipulator System for the Space Shuttle. Garneau flew two more missions as a mission specialist after NASA allowed non-Americans to join new astronaut classes. Other Canadians served on Space Shuttle and International Space Station (ISS) crews, most memorably when Chris Hadfield commanded the station in 2013. For that program, CSA contributed Canadarm2, a more advanced, double-ended remote manipulator system with a mobile base.
   Hansen followed a classic path to the astronaut corps—he became a fighter pilot.  Growing up on a farm near the mid-size city of London, Ontario, he joined the Royal Canadian Air Cadets at age 12. He earned his glider wings at age 16 and his pilot license at 17, which set his path to becoming an officer in the Royal Canadian Air Force (he is now a colonel). His eyes still set on space exploration, he graduated in 1999 from the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario, Canada’s primary service academy, with a bachelor of science in space science. He added an master of science in physics there in 2000, with a thesis on satellite tracking. After completing jet training on the CF-18 (a Canadian version of the McDonnell-Douglas F-18 Hornet), Hansen served from 2004-2009 in squadrons in Cold Lake, Alberta, that were part of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD)....
   When NASA asked CSA to nominate someone for the Canadian seat, Jeremy Hansen was the obvious and logical candidate. (Jenni Gibbons, from my hometown of Calgary, is his backup.) He will be not only the first Canadian to fly into deep space, but he will also be the first from any nation other than the United States. No human has left low Earth orbit since the Apollo 17 mission in December 1972. If all goes well, he will enjoy a spectacular view and help pioneer the human return to the Moon. It’s a fitting assignment for someone who has dreamed of going there since he was a small boy."

   The author of the piece above is also worth noting. There is a Wikipedia entry about him, from which the following was borrowed. 
   "Neufeld was born in Edmonton, Alberta, in 1951. He received a bachelor's degree from the University of Calgary, and a Master of Arts from the University of British Columbia in 1976 with his thesis "He who will not work, neither shall he eat": German social democratic attitudes to labor, 1890-1914. He received his Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University in 1984 with the dissertation "From artisans to workers: the transformation of the skilled metalworkers of Nuremberg, 1835-1905....."
Since the 1990s, Neufeld has written several works about Wernher von Braun.
  For the rationale for these London snippets see the first one: 
London's Bicentennial (1826-2026)

The Bonus:
  Here are some remarks from the astronauts after they returned: 

  Ms. Koch talked about what the word “crew” meant to her now — “a group that is in it all the time, no matter what” — and about how, when she looked at Earth from the neighborhood of the moon, it “was just this lifeboat hanging undisturbingly in the universe.”

She concluded, “There’s one new thing I know, and that is: Planet Earth, you are a crew.”

Mr. Hansen said that, if people liked how the Artemis II astronauts worked together, that joy was something everyone could share.

   “I would suggest to you that, when you look up here, you’re not looking at us,” he said. “We are a mirror reflecting you. And if you like what you see, then just look a little deeper.”

from:

"Artemis II Crew Reunites With Families and Fellow NASA Astronauts: The four astronauts made an emotional return to Houston a day after splashing down in the Pacific Ocean at the end of their 10-day lunar journey," Kenneth Chang, April 11, 2026, New York Times. 

London Bicentennial (Snippet 10)

 Jack Johnson Jailed in London - 1909

That article is from the Daily Alaskan, Skagway, Aug. 7,1909.

   The story also appeared in the New York Times on Aug. 7, 1909: "Jack" Johnson Fined: Was Charged With Running Down Automobile With His Machine."

   LONDON, Ontario, Aug. 6.-Jack Johnson, the negro pugilist, was arrested here this morning on the strength of a telegram from the Chief of Police at Woodstock, Ontario.

   Johnson is alleged to have gone through Woodstock at an excessive rate of speed in his automobile and to have run down another autoist, smashing his machine.

  He took his arrest quietly and wanted to pay his fine, whatever it might be. It was arranged by telephone that Police Magistrate Love of London should try the case. Johnson was fined $55 and continued on his way to Chicago."

   The car may have been this one:

  The "Galveston Giant" was often in trouble with the law, particularly when he was with white women, three of whom were his wives. There is plenty written about him and there is a Ken Burn's documentary. The Wikipedia entry will keep you busy for the rest of the day. 
   Johnson was in the news more recently. President Trump pardoned him during his first term. Here is what was said in the Oval Office: "Remarks by President Trump at Pardoning of John Arthur “Jack” Johnson" May 24, 2018.

London's Bicentennial (Snippet 9)

 A Train Wreck - 1902

   Someone made a mistake near Wanstead, which was close to Watford, which is not too far from here. The piece above is from the Akron Daily Democrat, Dec. 27,1902
   A search revealed more: "Wanstead began in 1858 with a hotel, post office a few businesses and a sawmill. In 1887 a fire destroyed the entire town. The people here rebuilt it and were instrumental in helping the survivors of a horrific train crash December 26, 1902 here until help came. The 'Chicago Flyer' slammed into the rear of a frieght train in the middle of the night during a violent blizzard. Thirty-eight died [other reports 31 died 35 injured] as the frieght train didn't reach the siding tracks in time to get out of the way. Wanstead was named after suburban village of London, England and dates back to the time of the Saxons and mean's "Woden's Place." Wanstead, Ontario Train Collision, Dec 27 1902. 

London's Bicentennial (Snippet 8)

Transitory Frenzy - 1888

I don't have time to check and see if "transitory frenzy" is defined in the most recent Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Disorders. It probably is, just under a different name. Keep it in mind if you need a defence attorney. I also don't know if this fellow made it back to London or stayed in Winnemucca, Nevada. This article is from The Silver State on Feb. 27, 1888 which was in Winnemucca.

London's Bicentennial (Snippet 7)

 Wine of Cardui - Probably the Only Wine in London in 1902
   Straight from Chattanooga, this elixir was used to treat "women's diseases".

This ad. is found in The Madison Daily Leader (South Dakota), on June 28, 1902. I am not sure if Miss Markell existed, but you can find plenty about the Wine of Cardui. And, there are empty bottles for sale on Amazon and ebay..

London's Bicentennial (Snippet 6)

 London Police Blotter - 1908

Source: University Missourian, Oct. 26, 1908. (United Press)
  This newspaper started in 1908 when the U. of Missouri School of Journalism opened. They probably used the UP item as filler. Located in Columbia, the paper reportedly closed in 1916.

London's Bicentennial (Snippet 3)

  If one goes searching for recent news about London, Ontario, the stories and reports often involve Western University and the city's robust STEM and health sciences sectors. They are usually positive. Here are a couple examples from this month.

"Jaundice; New Jaundice Research from Western University Discussed (Open-source light calibration system for hyperbilirubinemia phototherapy..."

Biotech Week, 4 March 2026.

Press Release: "Aduro Clean Technologies Announces Participation in the 38th Annual ROTH Conference"

Dow Jones Newswires, 14:00, 5 March 2026.

"Life Sciences; University of Western Ontario Researchers Discuss Findings in Life Sciences (Better data for better predictions: data..."

Life Science Weekly, 3 March 2026.

Canada Health Journal Panned - 1870 While searching for snippets for London's Bicentennial, this put-down was noticed. It is my duty to report the bad along with the good. This very harsh review is from the Medical and Surgical Reporter in the year of 1870.

London's Bicentennial (Snippet 2)

For International Women's Day

Early Feminism in London, Ontario - 1890
    An example is found in The Woman's Tribune, which is suitably situated in Beatrice, Nebraska. See the issue for Nov.8,1890. Under the heading "New Women's Papers", it notes "that new periodicals of, for and by women are springing up on every hand." 

   Ms. Wetherald is accomplished enough to have her own Wikipedia entry, from which the photograph was taken. A cursory search quickly found this: "Wives and Daughters," Isabel Campbell, The Mirror, Vol.1, No.1. 
   "Wives and Daughters" was published in London, Ontario as a monthly supplement to the London Advertiser between 1890 and 1892. Subscribers were expected to pay twenty-five cents per annum to receive it in the first year and fifty cents annually afterwards. Why and exactly when the publication folded is not known. The last known issue is Volume III, No. 1 in October of 1892 and there is no mention of the publication’s demise in it or in the London Advertiser at this time."
  The complete article is available online or in the Special Collections in the D.B. Weldon Library. It is published by the History Department at Western. 

London's Bicentennial (1826-2026)

    This year, London has been around officially for 200 of them. The following information about the events planned is from this website, where you can learn more: Celebrating 200 Years: London's Bicentennial: 
   "In 2026, London is officially marking 200 years since its founding in 1826. This timing follows historical precedent: in 1926, London celebrated its Centennial, and the London & Middlesex Historical Society confirms that 1826 is recognized as the year London was formally established. As we prepare for this once-in-a-generation celebration, 2026 is the year we come together to honour London’s history, growth, and future."

The website says to "get involved", so I will.  During the year, I will attempt to present frequent posts about London. They will be short snippets and here is the first one.

  The photograph is found in the London Public Library and is part of the London Room Digital Collections. Here is some of the description provided:
    "Two similar side by side black and white photographs mounted on card, showing a standing woman in profile and three young girls seated at the water's edge looking towards three people in row boats and four people wading in the Thames River at the Forks. On the opposite bank two riverboats are tied to the dock. In the right background is the courthouse and jail. In the left background notice the tower for the Ontario White Sulphur Springs and Mineral Baths. Printed on the back of the card: [Barron's Artistic Series of Canadian Views; London, Springbank, and Vicinity.] Also handwritten: [Showing Thames R. & Jail Turrets.] ca. 1880s 
[I only took one side of the photo which is probably from a stereoscope.]

Citation Justice

 
Or Knowledge Justice Or Epistemic Justice
   I was searching for a book and encountered this screen, where a reasonable question is asked. It is also a good thing to do some re-thinking from time-to-time. I had a quick look at the Open Resource, which led me to a brief consideration of "Citation Justice" and to reading a bit about it. 
   The basic notion seems to be that we need to pay much more attention to the identity of the person behind the citation, than the quality of it. The evaluation of citations should be identity-based, rather than evidence-based. That summary, coming from a guy who has read a bit, should not satisfy you. I will not consider citation politics further, but there is no reason why you shouldn't re-think your research methods. Here are some suggestions.

The Proselytizers

Start with, "Whose Knowledge Counts?... from the Western Libraries. 
  Other Canadian libraries are clearly on-board. A quick search indicated that "Citation Justice" is "hot topic" among librarians.
UBC - Citation Justice
"Citation justice is the process of being intentional about who you cite in your own work to uplift and center gender-diverse, Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, S2LGBTQIA+ folxs."
UVIC - A Critical Look at Citation Practices
"Critical citation or "Citation Justice is the act of citing authors based on identity to uplift marginalized voices with the knowledge that citation is used as a form of power in a patriarchal society based on white supremacy."
McGill - Citation Justice in STEMM
 "Citation justice involves intentionally acknowledging and citing the work of researchers from underrepresented groups. Research indicates that women, and Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPoC) scholars are cited less frequently than their white, male counterparts (Dworkin et al., 2020; Kozlowski et al, 2022). In science, technology, engineering, math, and medicine, practising citation justice means striving to equalize citation rates between white cis-male authors and those from diverse backgrounds and identities."
University of Toronto - Thinking Critically About Citations
  [This guide from the flagship is the most thorough. If you are only concerned about the justice part see the section - "Considering Your Positionality."]

Some Critics
   It take not take long to determine that some are questioning the emphasis on author identity.

  "The Problem With “Citation Justice”: A Seemingly Noble Ambition Excessively Politicises Scholarship," Freddie Attenborough, The Critic, Aug. 26, 2025

  "America’s Boston University has just introduced a “Citation Justice Pledge”, encouraging students and staff to “commit to intentionally uplifting and centering” the work of “authors who are Black, Indigenous, persons of color, of varied abilities [aren’t we all?], and part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community”. Those who sign the pledge are invited to attend workshops on diversifying reference sources. They also receive branded tote bags and stickers.

   Although presented as voluntary, the pledge has renewed concerns about a shift in higher education towards a form of soft (or not so soft) compulsion. What begins as an effort to do the right thing — in this case, broadening academic reference points — can easily become a de facto political litmus test, displacing genuine scholarship in favour of identity politics."

"When ‘Diverse Citations’ Replace Diverse Ideas," Erin Shaw, Oct. 20,2025, Heterodox Academy

  "Within academia, a new metric of “diversity” may be gaining traction—not in admissions, faculty hiring, or funding, but in the references of research. Nature Reviews Psychology shared their new journal guidelines on “citation diversity statements” in which authors should “draw attention to citation imbalances” among scientists from different demographic backgrounds, and “confirm that they made efforts to cite publications from a diverse group of researchers.” Unfortunately, citation diversity statements reduce scholars to statistics, threaten academic rigor, and add yet another ideologically conformist hoop for academics to jump through."

  It seems to me that there are clearly occasions when the identity of an author matters, but that it is only one variable to be considered. Discernment should be fostered rather than diversity preached.

   I used to work in libraries before they were makerspaces and often noticed the eagerness with which new ideas, resources, etc. were embraced. Also in libraries was the OED, which now may just be provided electronically. In it one will find two words that are useful:

"Neophiliacs"

"Neophiliacs suffer from a collective fantasy which leads them to describe every change as inevitable and an improvement on what preceded it."

Daily Telegraph,1991

"Neophiliacs will want to grok both books."

New York Times 8 October
  According to AI, this is what that sentence means:

"The sentence suggests that people who love novelty (neophiliacs) will want to deeply understand ("grok") the contents of both books, which offer contrasting views on computer jargon."
 [ I suppose determining the identity behind AI will be difficult. In any case "grok" the librarian links and the critical articles, and be sure to vet your citations.]
"Bandwagon"

"We tell the whig leaders, with their four band wagons, their foreign silk flags, and their Giraffes, that the days of humbuggery have gone by."

Ohio Democrat (New Philadelphia, Ohio) 15 September

"When I once became sure of one majority they tumbled over each other to get aboard the band wagon."

T. Roosevelt, Letter 28 April (1951) vol. II. 999

"He has blown with every wind; he has bandwagoned with every passing movement." Eugene (Oregon) Register-Guard 25 April 6/1

"What about the bandwagoners who are prone to jumping on the latest thing without really thinking it through?"

Xtra! West (Vancouver) 15 September 21/2

Hard Rock Hotel - London, Ontario

   If one searches for "Hard Rock Hotels", many are found, often in exotic locations like Davos, Bali and the Maldives. There is now one in London, Ontario in a location that some Londoners would describe, euphemistically, as "exotic",  and most Londoners probably know as much about it as they do about the one in the Maldives.
   There are a few reasons why the London Hard Rock Hotel is likely more of a mystery than a destination for locals, one of them being that there is not much local reporting any more. Norman De Bono, who wrote two of the articles below, can only do so much. If you never make it past the Aeolian Hall on Dundas, or if you have been hindered by construction, if arriving from the other direction, you might want to read what follows and see what you are missing. There are bars and restaurants, if you are not looking for a room. 
   It has been about seven months since it opened and some skeptics assume that such a glamorous facility might be experiencing grim times during these times which are rather grim. I am pleased to report that that is not the case, as this recent article indicates: " 'Elbows Up' Boosts London Tourism: City Sector Having a Strong Year Due to New Draws, Waning Visits to U.S. Observers Say," Jonathan Juha, London Free Press, Nov.1, 2025.
   "London, however, isn't only benefiting from Canadian travellers. The city also has seen strong numbers of travellers from outside the country, with the new Hard Rock Hotel - also at 100 Kellogg Lane - proving a major draw.
   "For us, we've seen a great summer," said Brendon Ainscow, general manager of the hotel, which this summer was named by Forbes Travel Guide one of the Top 11 new hotels to visit around the world.
  "We were even a little bit surprised with the number of guests that we did see coming in from the U.S. and from outside of Canada," he added.
  "Hard Rock is quite a recognizable international brand, so that's really helped us to become an attraction that's brought in people not just from outside of Ontario, but from outside of the country."
   Ainscow said the hotel also has been boosted by Canadians willing to spend their dollars on this side of the border."

   Buy Canadian and Stay Canadian!  "Half Way Between Detroit and London", as the t-shirt says, now there is a place to stay.

Note: If you have made it this far, but don't want to read the rest, just skip to the YouTube videos at the bottom to see what the Hard Rock Hotel has to offer. 

Located East of Adelaide

  Here is a brief timeline, indicating when the Hard Rock Hotel came to London, and culminating with a description of what has resulted.

2021 - "Hard Rock Comes to Town: Music -themed Hotel Planned for Former Kellogg's Cereal Plant, Site, Norman De Bono, Jonathan Juha, London Free Press, January 16, 2021."London will be home to the first Hard Rock Hotel in Canada."

2024 - Hard Rock Hotel: 'Final Piece' in 100 Kellogg Lane Puzzle, Norman De Bono, London Free Press, Dec. 24, 2024, [Christmas Eve!]
   "London's Hard Rock Hotel is in the final stage of construction, a 164-room upscale development that will push the total investment into 100 Kellogg Lane to more than $100 million."

2025 - The Grand Opening
   "Hard Rock Hotel London, Ontario, Officially Opens Its Doors," PR Newswire, April 21, 2025.
   "Canada's First Hard Rock Hotel takes center stage at 100 Kellogg Lane as locally-owned property celebrates its opening day and welcomes first guests."

  Canada's first Hard Rock Hotel is officially open for business. Located within 100 Kellogg Lane, Hard Rock Hotel London, Ontario is part of Canada's largest indoor entertainment complex and sits in the heart of London's Old East Village, just minutes from the Western Fair District and a short drive from downtown.

    The 164-room luxury destination celebrated its opening day with owners, local leaders and VIP guests, including John Rees, Senior Vice President of Hotels at Hard Rock International. "I was so pleased to join the local team to celebrate the first-ever Canadian Hard Rock Hotel, where music, entertainment and hospitality will come together to create truly unforgettable guest experiences," said Rees. "We are proud to be able to share the iconic energy of the Hard Rock brand with guests in the region and from across the globe."

"The property will help strengthen London's economy, and its culture and tourism industries, and is perfectly positioned within Canada's only UNESCO City of Music," said hotel General Manager, Brendon Ainscow. "As a Londoner, I couldn't be more proud and excited to see our city officially become home to Canada's First Hard Rock Hotel. With the addition of this hotel, London is strengthening its role as an international hub for music and culture. Our local team of over 100 employees are ready to welcome visitors from Southwestern Ontario and across the globe."

In addition to specialty suites offering floor-to-ceiling windows, and family-style guestrooms featuring separate rooms with bunk beds, the property offers ultra-luxurious rockstar and terrace suites and a range of unique amenities, including:

   -- An indoor/outdoor pool, where guests can enjoy cabana seating,    poolside cocktails, gourmet bites, and a state-of-the-art underwater sound system. 

 

   -- The signature Hard Rock GMT lobby bar, and Sessions restaurant,
  with creative culinary experiences. 

 

   -- A 1913 speakeasy, with mixologist driven, and thoughtfully inspired 

      cocktails that give an ode to the history of 100 Kellogg Lane
with cereal infused libations and traditional speakeasy styles. 

 

   -- The Rock Shop, where exclusive Hard Rock merchandise and 

souvenirs  can be purchased.

 

   -- Iconic music memorabilia from legends like Shania Twain, 

Gord Downie and more. 

 

   -- Valet parking. 

Visit hotel.hardrock.com/london-ontario for more information.

About the Hard Rock Hotel, London, Ontario Property

    "Hard Rock and Dora Hotel Company collaborated with award-winning BBB Architects and Interiors to create a music-infused sensory experience for the guests at this boutique hotel. Upon arrival, a 32-foot-high sculptural metallic guitar, handcrafted in London, Ontario, marks the entrance for a grand porte-cochere, which combines a theatrical light show and surround sound immersive musical experience. The grand lobby combines elements of the historic Kellogg brick building with new stone tile, multiple skylights, and displays of significant musical memorabilia themed to London's history and Canada's contribution to the world music scene.

The hotel features 164 exquisitely designed guest rooms and specialty suites offering floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the vibrant energy within the complex. Family-style guestrooms featuring separate rooms with bunk beds sure to delight all ages, while the signature Rock Star Suite features a plush living area and bar, exclusive music-inspired touches, and high-end amenities like a private kitchenette, perfect for entertaining in your own one-of-a-kind retreat.

Guests and locals will discover innovative culinary and beverage concepts, including GMT-5 bar, Sessions Restaurant & Bar, and a unique speakeasy appropriately named after the year the Kellogg's Factory opened -- 1913. The mixologist driven bar will feature cereal infused libations as an ode to the venue's history.

At Hard Rock Hotel London, Ontario, music is at the heart of every guest experience. The Sound of Your Stay(R) program invites travelers to connect with music in immersive ways, from streaming expertly curated playlists with Tracks(R) to spinning classic vinyl on Victrola record players with Wax(R) or playing a premium guitar delivered to your room with Picks(R).

Wellness also finds its rhythm here. The signature Rock Om(R) program blends yoga with DJ-curated soundtracks for on-demand, in-room sessions that inspire balance and relaxation. Guests seeking a more dynamic workout can visit the Body Rock(R) Fitness Centre, fully equipped with Technogym equipment and energizing playlists. After an invigorating workout, the indoor/outdoor pool provides the perfect place to recharge, complete with an innovative underwater sound system that keeps the music flowing - even below the surface.

  

Pets are also part of the experience, with the Unleashed program offering thoughtful amenities for four-legged family members, further positioning Hard Rock Hotel London, Ontario, as a destination for all."

Videos:

Hard Rock Hotel, Jenelle Nicole (10 min.)

Inside Canada's First Hard Rock Hotel (6min.) "gunnarolla" (Andrew Gunadie).

The Bonus:
   Located next door, Paradigm Spirits won the grand prize at the Canadian Whisky Awards in 2024. For additional details, see "Local Booze."

SALT & WATER

 

Rust Never Sleeps
  The skies are growing darker, as are the forecasts, and soon snow will be falling. Salt flakes will also fill the air, and later the water. Not just our vehicles are affected. 
   Concern about salt pollution was raised in two articles that came out around the same time last spring and I happened to notice them; one was about Muskoka to the north of us and the other New York state to the south. Consider this another public service announcement (PSA).

   "Muskoka First in Ontario to Call for Provincial Action on Road Salt Pollution: Rescue Lake Simcoe Coalition Also Raising Issue with Conservation Authority, City of Barrie, Town of Georgina" Staff, Orillia Matters - news release, Mar. 19, 2025. Here are some of the important bits:

   "As the dust settles from the provincial election, Muskoka is wasting no time when it comes to tackling road salt impacts.  On Monday, Muskoka became the first Ontario jurisdiction to pass a resolution declaring the need for provincial action on salt pollution from road salt. The District of Muskoka council passed a resolution which asks the province to both advance limited liability for the snow and ice management sector and to create a stakeholder advisory committee to advise the province on managing salt pollution in Ontario’s lakes and rivers.he resolution was initiated and moved by Muskoka District chair Jeff Lehman, who issued the following statement: “The district is pleased to work with local cottage associations, the landscaping industry, and environmental groups to help mitigate the impacts of salt and ensure the right amount is used in the right way in the right places. Building on previous district work and commitments, we look forward to continuing to improve lake health and provide leadership in reducing the environmental impact of road salt in Muskoka.”...  
   Ontario is Canada’s No. 1 user of winter salt, applying approximately two million to three million tonnes of salt each winter. Road salt is a known toxic substance designated under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act because of tangible threats including serious, irreversible environmental and public health damages. Other impacts to drinking water sources, critical public infrastructure (roads, bridges, buildings), and private property are also important concerns.  Currently, there are no provincial policies or regulations for road salts, including no salt use standards, required training, enforcement mechanisms, or protections against salt pollution.... 
   Municipalities, conservation authorities, non-governmental organizations, and businesses alike have been warning about the growing impact of salt pollution and oversalting for decades, to no avail. Now, they’re banding together to ensure this issue gets the attention and action it needs.
   The reaction to this move was positive and more details are provided in: "Very positive response’: Residents’ Group Applauds Muskoka Council’s Decision on Road Salt Issue: Resolution Aims to Reduce Usage While Ensuring Road and Sidewalk Safety Concerns About ncreasing Chloride Levels in Lakes rompted Action," Brent Cooper, Muskokaregion.com., March 22, 2025:
   "A representative from a Muskoka group concerned with the region’s environment is applauding a District of Muskoka move to tackle the ongoing issue of road salt in area lakes.
Here’s what you need to know
Jim Davis, who is a director with the Gull and Silver Lakes Residents’ Association, is praising the district council’s passing of a resolution on March 17, which commits its ongoing efforts toward the reduction of road salt as much as possible, while maintaining safety on roads and sidewalks.“Protecting the water quality of our lakes is the No. 1 concern for our association,” he said after the March meeting. “The continued use of road salt, resulting in every-increasing chloride levels, poses a serious threat to the lake health of Gull and Silver Lakes, and lakes throughout Muskoka. The resolution passed by district council is a very positive response to an environmental problem that is entirely man-made.”

The New York State Salt Situation
    Here is the other article, which indicates that the problem is widespread in snowy northern regions:
   "Salty Suburban Roads Are Clouding the Future of N.Y.C. Drinking Water: A new environmental report finds that rising salt levels in New York City’s water supply could make some of it undrinkable by the turn of the century," Hilary Howard, New York Times, March 25, 2025.
   "Road salt is leaching into the reservoirs that hold New York City’s tap water and could make some of it unhealthy to drink by the turn of the century, according to a new study commissioned by city environmental officials….“We just need people who operate roads to start realizing that this is a chemical that we are adding to our environment, and we have to take that seriously,” Mr. Aggarwala said.
Road salt is cheap and plentiful, but it is also dangerous for the environment and corrosive for infrastructure. New York City’s pristine tap water is a source of pride among residents and local leaders. Most of it, about 90 percent, comes from rural areas in the Catskill Mountains, a range that extends more than 125 miles north of New York City. It represents the largest unfiltered water supply in the United States."
   The study mentioned is this one and it has a literature review: “Salinity Management Assessment”, Bureau of Water Supply, NYC Dept. of Environmental Protection, March 21, 2025,  35 page pdf.

  The solutions to the salt situation are not obvious and the prohibition of it would likely make some people in the Goderich area unhappy. 
Some Salt Sources:
   ONTARIO SALT POLLUTION COALITION
   WATER WATCHERS

                                                       WATER

   More recently, the problem is not salty water, but the shortage of drinking water. Just two examples from the east and the west:

  "What Happens When the Well Runs Dry? After Months of Drought, Nova Scotians are Finding Out," Barry Rueger, Special to The Globe and Mail, Oct.1, 2025
and:
  "As Water Dries up in Northeast B.C., Some Want Industry Paying More to Pump the Precious Resource," Matt Preprost,CBC, Nov. 2, 2025.
   Of course, out in B.C. the salmon are also affected by the salt:
"B.C. Researchers Find Road Salt Most Toxic to Salmon During 24 hours After Egg Fertilization; The updated research reveals how road salt is also having a negative effect on developing chum salmon," Tiffany Crawford, Vancouver Sun, Nov. 2, 2025.

The Bonus:
  I generally make fun of the notion of "breaking news", but these stories just broke as this was being written, the point being that, the lack of water is even a local problem.
 " $400M Water Upgrade Needed as St. Thomas Industrial Boom Spikes Demand: If the provincial government does not help, water users, including homeowners and businesses, will pay more," London Free Press, Nov.6, 2025.
  ‘We Were Not Expecting it for Another 30 Years’: $400 million water plant expansion for PowerCo could sink municipal finances," Byan Bicknell, CTV News, Nov.6, 2025

Margaret Munn versus Western University

   Given that my last post was about a professor suing a university in the United States, I will now offer one about a student suing a university in Canada.  
   The student is Margaret Munn and the university is Western (often still referred to as UWO - the University of Western Ontario - in the sources provided below.)
   The major purpose of this post is to provide sources for information related to Munn's experience at Western and the lawsuit which has resulted. The litigation is ongoing. When the case is resolved, and if the result is reported, these background references may be of interest.
     I was unable to find any London reporting about "the Munn Affair", which is not unusual given the state of the local press, and the Western-related publications may be reluctant to approach the subject for other reasons, not-the-least of which is that the case is currently being litigated.
    The sources offered below are the ones that were found after a fair amount of searching. If they appear to be skewed in favour of Munn, that is in fact the case, but they were the only ones found; there were no critical ones to be excluded. Admittedly, less searching was done on social media sites where I did see a few negative comments about Munn and about the quality of the sources I note below. Here is one example from Reddit: "If you believe Jonathan Kay's reporting verbatim you need better critical thinking skills. He is highly ideological and sees himself as an anti-"woke" crusader." 
   I am choosing to say nothing about "the Munn Affair", or the quality of the sources. You can do some searching on your own, or read or listen to the sources provided and decide for yourself.

To Get Started:
       The lawsuit is outlined in this "Statement of Claim" filed with the Ontario Superior Court of Justice on Jan. 10, 2025. At the time this is being written, the 22 page document is available to the public and can be accessed by clicking on this link: MARGARET MUNN and THE UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN ONTARIO. (a summary can be generated.)

Ledrew and Laywer Lisa Bildy (a UWO grad.)

  For a short interview with Munn's lawyer which offers basic background information see: "The Case of Margaret Munn VS University of Western Ontario," Stephen Ledrew, Hosts Lawyer, Lisa Bildy, The News Forum, n.d. The introduction is found by clicking on the link above and lasts 4:50. The rest of the 20 minute interview is found under, "Political Correctness and Censorship at Canadian Institutions," The News Forum. 
  More about Munn, her "offences" at Western and the actions by some in the Faculty of Education and the reaction by the Western Senate, is found in this summary provided by the Free Speech Union of Canada: "Margaret Munn v. University of Western Ontario," May 12, 2025.

  For Additional Background:
   The first article about Munn's experiences at Western is this very long one: "Lessons From a Teacher-College Battle Over Free Speech and 'Decolonization': University of Western Ontario Instructors Spent Months Denouncing an Outspoken Education Student Who'd Asked Awkward Questions About Indigenous Reconciliation - Until a UWO Tribunal Concluded They'd Violated Her Rights," Jonathan Kay, Quillette, Nov. 29, 2024. The entire article is available by clicking on the link above.
   For those who would rather listen than read, the author has more recently offered this account which is 25 minutes long. A link and an indication of the contents are provided here:
"Why This Student Was Punished for Asking the Wrong Questions at University of Western Ontario?" Jonathan Kay, Quillette, May 20, 2025.
   "In a speech at the University of Western Ontario, Quillette editor Jonathan Kay shared insights from his investigation into UWO’s teachers college, focusing on a controversy involving Margaret Munn, who questioned the curriculum's decolonization focus. Munn's inquiries led to a backlash, with UWO's Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion committee pushing for her expulsion. However, UWO's Senate Review Board Academic ultimately vindicated her, emphasizing the need for free speech and academic freedom. Kay highlights systemic pressures and incentives in academia that prioritize ideological conformity over open dialogue, urging reforms to support intellectual diversity."

00:15 The speaker’s legal career struggled due to moral dissonance with clients
01:39 Journalism reveals institutional pressures over personal morality
02:19 Margaret Munn faces challenges as a non-traditional student at UWO
04:40 UWO's decolonising pedagogy course is criticised as overly ideological
08:07 Munn questions decolonisation narratives, disrupting academic orthodoxy
10:24 UWO’s EDI committee seeks to expel Munn for ideological dissent
12:42 Curriculum changes and staffing reflect institutional haste and pressure
18:31 Administrators prioritise ideological trends over academic integrity
22:12 University reform requires changing incentive structures
23:09 Lena Dagnino defends academic freedom and Munn’s rights
23:37 Judgment critiques constraints on Munn’s academic expression
24:21 Panel defends intellectual freedom and academic values
24:49 Call for scholars to uphold academic principles
25:03 Based on a speech promoting liberty and rule of law

   A response to the reporting by Kay about the "Munn Affair" is found here:

"Schooled in DEI: UWO Sued for Ideological Teacher Training," by Jamie Sarkonak, National Post, May 24, 2025. Here are the first three paragraphs:

   "The point of the University of Western Ontario's education program should be to teach its students how to teach - but instead, it seems to be teaching students what to think by sabotaging the success of students who don't agree with decolonization.

   That's at least the impression you get from a lawsuit served upon the university by alumna Margaret Munn. She alleges she was subjected to unfair treatment and ideological pressure during her studies, including harassment-like behaviour from her faculty dean, and is now seeking more than $1 million in damages with the help of the Free Speech Union of Canada and her lawyer, Lisa Bildy. Her allegations are detailed in a statement of claim that has been made public, and have yet to be proven in court. Potentially years of proceedings lie ahead.

  The University of Western Ontario was only recently served and must file a statement of defence; its spokesperson, Stephen Ledgley, told the National Post on Friday that he was unable to comment on ongoing litigation."
   Essentially the same article by Sarkonak is also found under this title: "Education Student Punished For Questioning Decolonization Sues UWO," Postmedia Breaking News, May 26, 2025.

Serving The Ridiculously Rich

 

Olivia Ferney - Western, BMOS'22 Grad
  I wrote recently about Nadeen Ayoub, Miss Palestine, who may become Miss Universe, because she is in the news and Western University is mentioned (see, Miss Universe.) Another Western woman is in the "breaking news" and here are some of the stories in case you missed them. 
   The rather fetching Ms. Ferney is now in Miami working for Top Tier Travel, where she cares for the needs of very wealthy people who are used to having them met. Some of the requests are extremely extravagant and outlandish, but apparently requestors don't mind that they are exposed on, travelwithlivii, Olivia Ferney's Instagram account. Click on that link to learn more, or have a look at the articles below, where some of the more egregious examples of the demands of the rich and famous are provided.
    I will begin with the interview in The Times (the one in London, the other London) from which the illustration above is taken. It is from an article done by Paula Froelich on July 18 and it does not appear to be behind The TIme's rather high paywall, so read it at the link just provided. Other, rather lower-tiered British papers also offered stories including examples of the type of demands Ms. Ferney deals with daily. See, for example:
"Meet the Luxury Travel ‘fixer’ Whose Calls with Demanding Mega-rich Clients Have Made Her a Social Media Star," The Independent, Aug. 10, 2025.
  "Olivia Ferney has fast become one of the world's most sought-after luxury travel organizers, with Instagram videos of her staying cool in the face of absurd requests from ultra-high-net-worth clients earning her nearly 300,000 followers. She revealed her clients’ wildest demands to US Travel Editor Ted Thornhill." 

   On this side of the Atlantic, The New York Times has this story and I had to look up the sports car mentioned, since it has never been mentioned by anyone in my rather pedestrian group of friends: "They’re Rich, They Travel and They Love to Complain: A Birkin Bag Overnighted to Capri. A Pink Brabus Sports car for a Gen Z Birthday Party. Olivia Ferney, a Travel Agent to the Ultrawealthy, Has Heard it all," Guy Trebay, Aug. 21, 2025. Here are some examples from behind the NYT wall:

   “We work with many billionaires and hundred-millionaires,” Ms. Ferney said, referring to her employer, Top Tier Travel. “The main word I use is ‘particular.’ Rich people like very particular things.”
   Just how particular? There was the client who authorized $100,000 charged to his credit card for his daughter’s vacation, provided she agree not to contact him. Another client demanded a last-minute doctor’s consult before boarding a private jet, fearful that her new breast implants might rupture.
   And then there was the woman who insisted on being extracted from a charter boat when rough seas prevented her from reaching a Greek party island. She complained that the waves were not even that high, adding that the captain was no longer speaking to her....
   Raised in Dundas, Ontario, population 20,000, Ms. Ferney grew up in a middle-class family that was as incredulous as her online fans were about the stories she posted.
   After attending the University of Western Ontario, she lit out for Miami, where she met Troy Arnold, the founder of Top Tier Travel. She joined the company as a fixer for those who pay $2,500 to $8,500 a month for above-and-beyond services.
   And what are those services? A custom pink Brabus 800 for a 22-year-old’s birthday party. Spring water shipped to a Caribbean island for a client annoyed that shampooing with the local tap water gave her an itchy scalp. A $75,000 Shadow Birkin from Hermes overnighted to Capri, Italy."

   We shouldn't feel too badly for Ms. Ferney since she has to travel to the top tier places and, as the article indicates, "Her therapeutic neutrality in the face of outlandish behavior may be rooted in the fact that she takes many of her calls poolside."
   If you would like to listen to more information about Ms. Ferney, she can be heard on the CBC where she was interviewed on "Afternoon Drive", with Matt Allen on Aug. 26 - "Dundas Woman Who Serves Ultra-wealthy Shares Stories of Clients in Viral Videos." 

   If you would like to take a vacation of this type and talk to Ms. Ferney, here is the website of Top Tier Travel.

Local BOOZE

  Paradigm Spirits Co.

   The muse responsible for much of the content in MM (especially the bad stuff) went  AWOL a while back when the sun began to shine and, like most Canadian workers, has been reluctant to return to the office. On this rainy day a short post is provided under a title likely to be attractive to many people searching the Internet. I also will throw in here the words "bourbon" and "whisky", as well as "whiskey."
   Trump and tariffs are also mentioned since they are responsible for what follows. Given that free trade is no longer an option with the U.S., Canadians finally realized that they could not freely trade with Canadians in the other provinces in this country. For example, an award-winning whisky produced here in London at the old Kellogg Plant could not be purchased by a Manitoban.
   The irony involved was noticed in a foreign newspaper and both the irony and the article have not been reported on in the local press, since there isn't much of one (although De Bono does what he can.) Here is the important part of the piece about Paradigm Spirits:

"Trump’s Tariffs are Promoting Free Trade — in Canada: Politicians and Industry Leaders Have Long Pushed to Remove Barriers to Interprovincial Trade. Trump’s Tariffs are Giving the Effort New Momentum," Amanda Coletta, The Washington Post, July 26, 2025:

TORONTO — "In 2024, the grand prize at the Canadian Whisky Awards went to Paradigm Spirits. Its entrant, made with Canadian corn, aged for 19 years in American oak barrels and blended with a splash of Spanish sherry, beat some 200 competitors to be crowned Whisky of the Year. A judge called it “remarkable.” 
   It was a break for Paradigm, which had opened in an old Kellogg’s factory in London, Ontario, just a few years earlier. The women-owned-and-operated distillery was soon inundated with messages from Canadians across the country eager to buy the award-winning spirit, co-founder Irma Joeveer said.
   But there was a problem: Canada’s internal trade barriers. With few exceptions, alcohol producers in one Canadian province are prohibited from selling directly to consumers in another. Vintners in British Columbia, for instance, can often more easily sell their merlots to oenophiles in other countries than within their own.
   Politicians and industry leaders have long pushed to knock down these and other internal trade barriers, a patchwork of federal and provincial laws, regulations and professional licensing standards that add costs to doing business and complicate the flow of goods, services and workers inside the country."

   You can learn more about the award-winning whisky here:

"Paradigm Spirits Co. Crowned 2024 Whisky of the Year by Esteemed Judges at the Canadian Whisky Awards," Canada Newswire, Jan.25, 2024.

LONDON, ON, Jan. 25, 2024 /CNW/ - "Paradigm Spirits, a young and innovative distillery based in London, Ontario, is proud to announce that its 2022 Heritage Collection Whisky has been named 2024 Whisky of the Year by the distinguished panel of judges at the Canadian Whisky Awards. 
   The enduring yearly awards ceremony took place on January 18, 2024, coinciding with the Victoria Whisky Festival. It stands as the singular competition exclusively devoted to Canadian whisky. The panel of judges, numbering 10, meticulously sampled and rated close to 200 competing whiskies during blind tastings.... 
   This prestigious recognition reinforces Paradigm Spirits' commitment to excellence in crafting exceptional whiskies that captivate a broad spectrum of whisky enthusiasts, from newcomers to seasoned connoisseurs.
   Michelle Debus, partner at Paradigm Spirits, expressed her excitement stating, "We are thrilled to receive this prestigious award. As a young distillery, our passion for whisky drives our commitment to innovation. The 2022 Heritage Collection, a 19-year-old, 100% corn whisky, showcases our dedication to pushing boundaries in Canadian whisky making."
  To learn more about the company - Paradigm Spirits. To buy some, visit 100 Kellogg Lane.

Maple-Washing

      Buy Canadian - It's Not So Easy
   The term "maple-washing" appeared in a headline and it is our subject for today. It was new to me. Apparently "it has been coined in popular discourse to describe the lengths that retailers and producers have gone to make their products appear as Canadian as possible."  
   Misleading marketing is not new, but the surge in food patriotism is and that has led to some questionable labelling indicating that a product is "Canadian". To reduce the angst among those who are agitated about all of this, I will reproduce the relevant paragraph from the maple-washing article, which says the rules relating to food are clear about what constitutes "Canadian." I hope they are clear to you, but I remain confused. For example, although coffee is not grown in Canada, I know there are some Canadian coffee companies, as defined by the rules listed below, but I don't think it would be correct to say that Tim Hortons is a Canadian company.

 "According to the Food and Drugs Act, all food labels must be truthful and not misleading or likely to create a false impression. The rules are clear. 
  "Product of Canada" requires that at least 98 per cent of the ingredients and processing be Canadian. "Made in Canada" means the last substantial transformation took place here, and "Prepared in Canada" refers to food that was processed, packaged or handled domestically, regardless of where the ingredients originated." "Retailers Must Guard Against Maple-Washing," Sylvain Charlebois, London Free Press, July 29, 2025.

   To demonstrate the complexity of all of this, here is a bit from the Consumers Council of Canada, which also supplied me with the definition of maple-washing as quoted above.

   "In one typical social media feed, Canadians can see promotion that Cadbury’s Creme Eggs and Mini Eggs are “proudly made for Canada, in Canada from domestic and imported ingredients”, Breyer’s ice cream is “made in Canada with high quality ingredients and Canadian dairy”. Black Diamond cheese will also promote its Canadian origins and production, and sometimes cheekily notes it is made with 0% American cheese.
   Some consumers will appreciate this presentation and favour those products. 
   Of course, Cadbury is a British company, owned by Mondelez international. Breyers has a production facility in Simcoe, Ontario, but it’s owned by Unilever. Black Diamond has origins and production in Belleville, Ontario, but is owned by Lactalis Canada which is part of the Lactalis Group, headquartered in France."

  I suppose that the subject of whether your grocery item is "Canadian" is moot if you purchased it at either Walmart or Costco. 

Buy Ontarian

  Once again, my post is more confusing than it should have been. So, I will conclude by suggesting that you only buy things made in Ontario and supply the source where you can shop: Ontario Made: Great Things are Made Right Here.  You will even find a Canadian coffee company - Club Coffee Craft Roasters, in Etobicoke. 

Post Script:
   The recent concern about buying Canadian is largely a result of the numerous tariffs which have been levied, unlevied and which are about to be levied again. Ontario began the "Support Ontario" program back when the pandemic was the issue that made people think about reshoring and producing things locally. 
See, for example: "Labatt Promotes Ontario Made Label," Jennifer Bieman, LFP, Oct. 30, 2020:
  "Labatt Breweries of Canada signed on to a provincewide push to promote Ontario businesses forging ahead in the pandemic-battered economy. Ninety-six brands, including London-made Bud Light, Budweiser and Labatt Blue, will display an Ontario Made designation, a marketing initiative to promote local products....The province threw its support behind the program in early July, contributing $500,000. The campaign comes after many Ontario businesses retooled during the first wave of the pandemic to manufacture in-demand products, including masks and other personal protective equipment. Premier Doug Ford announced a second phase of the program Thursday, a consumer directory of participating manufacturers at Supportontariomade.ca."

Bonus Links:
  Send your kid to a Canadian Maple League University.
  Travel Locally- Grassroutes.    

   Whether a non-food item is "Canadian" can be complex as well, and that is why we have law firms. And when such firms are involved, suits follow. Take the case of a company named Moose Knuckles, which surely appears to be Canadian, even if their product was not.
   "In recent years, there has only been one enforcement action brought by the Bureau regarding a “Made in Canada” claim. In 2016, the Bureau filed an application with the Competition Tribunal (Tribunal) alleging that Moose Knuckles had marketed their winter parkas as “Made in Canada,” when they were actually imported from Asia in nearly finished form, only to be finalized with zippers, snaps, fur trims and labels in Canada. Moose Knuckles settled the action by, among other things, agreeing to donate C$750,000 over five years to charity and to clarify that some of its parkas are made with Canadian and imported components."
From: "Maple-Washing: Regulatory and Civil Liability Risks of Calling a Product Canadian," By Laura Weinrib, Jonathan Bitran, Simon Seida, Emily Hazlett and Joshua Hutchinson, Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP, March 13, 2025.

   It is also noted in the article above that "maple-washing" is sometimes called, "maple glazing".
   For another bonus, search for the meaning of "moose knuckles".