Shawn Murphy

Spaghetti Supper Invitation

2006-01-17T23:02:00.000-04:00

The weather was a little colder and we did get some snow today, but overall it was still pretty good.

Usually at this stage of the campaign you get very busy with special events and all candidates' forums. Today was an exception in that it was a straight forward day.

I spent the morning in the Sherwood area (Brown's Lane, Francis Street) and dropped into both Corrigan Lodge and Hemlock Lodge.

We had lunch at the Seatreat - always a great meal.

This afternoon I dropped into Parkwest Lodge and canvassed in the Sherwood area. When you visit a place like Parkwest you appreciate how quickly life goes by. Talked with Brian Cudmore, Jack Bigelow and George MacDougall. All people who I know well and who, at one time, business leaders in the Charlottetown area.

I spent the evening in the East Royalty Area - I cannot believe the development there.

On Thursday evening at 6.00pm, we are having at Spaghetti Supper at the St Pius X Hall on St Peters Road. Everyone is invited to come.

All-Candidates Debate at UPEI

2006-01-16T21:54:00.000-04:00

A federal election usually lasts five weeks. Today we started week eight of the campaign.

The weather is a little more winter-like with snow instead of mud on the ground. I spent the morning canvassing in the Parkdale area.

I had lunch at the Claddagh Room and then dropped in to visit the ladies living at the Charlotte residence on Fitzroy Street. I spoke to Mrs Cousins who taught at Colonel Gray High School some 40-45 years ago.

I spent the afternoon in the Sherwood area - Robin, Scarlet and Friar.

On Monday evening I participated in the Charlottetown candidates' debate organized by the UPEI Student Union. The event was well organized and reasonably well attended.

At the All-Candidates' Debate on the UPEI Campus

90th Birthday for Elinor Smith

2006-01-15T22:37:00.000-04:00

Not a really hectic day. I started with church at 9.00 am and then made a visit to my mother's.

In the afternoon I went for a workout at the West Royalty Fitness Center and then attended a 90th birthday party for Elinor Smith, which was held at the Stratford Community Centre.

Spent Sunday evening in the office preparing for this week's candidate debates.

Lebanese New Year

2006-01-14T23:46:00.000-04:00

The end of week seven and, again, a very mild day. I spent the AM going door-to-door on Queen Street. I started at the intersection of Queen and Euston and ended up near the intersection of Queen and Kirkwood.

This evening, Yvette and I attended the annual Lebanese New Year's Levee at the Delta Prince Edward. The place was sold out (over 650). The Lebanese entertainment, dancers and food were great. Everybody had a great time. Yvette and I left at 11.30 pm, but I got the impression that the party would go on for another two or three hours.

Reception for Mark MacDonald

2006-01-13T23:54:00.000-04:00

Another unbelievably warm day. I spent the morning in the Hillsborough Development subdivision. I started on Patterson Drive (there weren't many home) and then went on to Stockdale (a good percentage were at home). Issues were mainly local - a lot being provincial or municipal.

I had a quick lunch and then dropped into the Stamper residence on Fitzroy Street for a visit. At 1.30 we had the last of our senior's socials at Duvar Court. I must confess that, after ten events, I am ready to take some time off from Bobby Doyle.

At 2.30 pm I dropped into a reception hosted in honour of Mark MacDonald. Mark, a 27 year-old native of Kingston, PEI, set a Canadian record for the most wins in the harness racing industry. We are all very proud of Mark. I had a great chat with Wally MacInnis, a trainer who is home from Montreal for a few days.

The Conservatives released their platform today. I understand fully why they waited so long: scrap the gun registry; scrap our commitment to the Kyoto Accord; scrap the Early Childhood Development program; increase personal income taxes; and decrease taxes to companies and wealthy Canadians (the capital gains deferral provision).

On Friday evening I attended a reception hosted by the PEI Fishermen's Association. The Honourable Geoff Regan was in Charlottetown to address the audience. I could not stay for the
banquet as Yvette and I were committed to attending a dinner with the executive of the Charlottetown Lebanese Association, held at the Town & Country restaurant.

Ceilidh at the Arts Guild

2006-01-12T23:38:00.000-04:00

I had a really busy day today. I started out by dropping into the Full Circle private school on Kent Street for 30 minutes and had a great session with about 10 students.

At 10.00 am, I attended the "Making Poverty History" forum held at the Basilica Recreation Centre. It was well organized - the format was good and everyone stuck to the facts. This issue does not get the attention it deserves (I haven't heard it on one doorstep during this campaign) and hopefully this forum raised the profile of this issue.

I did some more door-to-door canvassing in the early afternoon and at 2.00 we had a well attended Senior's social at Charlotte Court. I continued the door-to-door canvas for about an hour and a half after the social.

This evening I hosted two events. The first event was a Seniors Social at Haviland Court followed by a Ceilidh at the Arts Guild. We had a great crowd at the ceilidh and the entertainment was wonderful. I think the highlight of the evening was Gary Evans imitating four telephone conversations that I had with with Wade MacLauchlan; Senator Catherine Callbeck; Lawrence MacAulay and Ron MacKinley. It is nice to have some fun during a long campaign. I've posted some photos from the ceilidh in my photo album.

Trivia at UPEI

2006-01-11T15:17:00.000-04:00

Another great day weather-wise. You hardly needed a jacket on. I started the day canvassing in the Lewis Point park area. Trouble with mornings is that you do not find that many at home.

At 10.30 we had a seniors' social with Bobby Doyle at Beach Grove. We had a great crowd and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. This is a great facility and all I ever heard in my life was praise for the wonderful staff.

Red Cheverie and I had lunch at Barry's on the Mount Edward Road - a busy spot.

I started the afternoon canvassing Seaview Drive. I grew up in the general neighbourhood and know some of the older families, although many new families have moved in. I get a kick out of talking to children. They know me as the "Man on the Red Sign"

At 2.00 pm, we had a largely attended social at 501 Queen Street. These residents love their social, and this one went close to two hours. After 501, I finished up Seaview. I've placed a few photos from the 501 Queen Street social in my photo album. Earlier this evening I canvassed in Hillsborough development. Again, this time of the year there are about 75-80% of the people at home.

At around 9.15 I dropped into the Wednesday night trivia game at The Wave on the UPEI campus. There was a big crowd of great kids. I had a beer and asked the bartender if they had a senior's discount - no such luck.

Seniors' Socials

2006-01-10T22:01:00.000-04:00

Today was a big seniors' socials day. I hosted seniors' socials at the Atlantic Baptist Nursing Home, Whisperwood Villa and at Park Royal Seniors' Complex. They were all well attended and everyone enjoyed themselves. I've posted a few pictures in my photo album from my visit to Whisperwood.

When you spend some time in these homes you realize just how quickly life goes by. You see and chat with people you either knew, or knew of, who were once leaders in the community.

I did some door-to-door canvassing in the Sherwood area, but because of the socials I did not cover much territory.

I cannot believe the weather. We are not supposed to have any cold weather between now and election day, although we are going to run into some rain.

Reflections on the Election and National Debate

2006-01-09T22:48:00.000-04:00

It may come as some surprise that I don't usually watch the federal leader debates. I generally don't get that much out of them and watching four men argue isn't conducive to a good night's sleep. Last night was the exception. I did watch the debates, although I didn't get home until 9.30 pm. The debates reinforce your perceptions and last night was no exception.

I was disappointed by how negative every statement was. We live in a great country, the economy is doing well, unemployment is at a 30-year low, corporate profits are at a 16 year high, inflation is low, interest rates are low, we are paying down our debt and, despite what you are hearing, the government and politicians are not corrupt.

I am naturally disappointed in the direction Harper wants to take the country. To scrap Kyoto, the income tax cuts and the early childhood development agreements is not the way to go.

I am perplexed at Martin's suggestion to abolish the 'notwithstanding' clause. I'm not saying I'm for this or against it. It is something that would have to be thoroughly debated. It is a tool and the fact that it hasn't been used in 20 years does not necessarily mean it should be thrown out. There will be legitimate views on both sides on this issue.

I spent the day on Esher Street. I haven't fallen on the ice once this campaign, but had two close calls yesterday. At 10.30 I had a senior's social at Champion Court. In the afternoon I had a social at Andrews Lodge and canvassed on Longworth Avenue. Local reporter, Wayne Thibideau attended the Andrews Lodge Social. I've posted a few pictures from the social in my photo album.

On Monday evening, I canvassed in the Hillsborough development.

Birthday Party for Laura Carter

2006-01-08T22:43:00.000-04:00

I had a relatively quiet day. I started the day with church and the regular Sunday morning visit to my mother's.

Had a noon hour workout at the West Royalty Fitness Centre and then attended a birthday party for Laura Carter at Lyon's Court. There was a big crowd there.

I then went to the constituency office to catch up on some correspondence, etc. The building where our office is located was broken into some time Saturday night. They broke into three office, but from what we can tell nothing was taken from our office.

Spent Sunday evening on the phone and generally getting ready for week seven of the campaign.

Upcoming Debate and Social Events

2006-01-07T22:59:00.000-04:00

After six weeks on the campaign trail, I am getting tired. On Saturday morning, I usually go for an early morning workout, but I just couldn't rally this morning - oh well.

I spent the day on North River Road. I knew a lot of people along the way. Once I got beyond Queen Charlotte High School I was in my old neighbourhood, so I knew most of the people.

Gary Evans and Nancy Drew were helping me out in the morning. We went to the Farmer's Market for lunch. There was an exceptionally large crowd there.

Yvette and I went out to the Hillsborough development earlier this evening. Again, there were a lot of people at home.

As far as local debates are concerned, the only one coming up is the UPEI Student Union debate on Monday, January 16th at 7.00 pm. Time is running out.

Two events our campaign is having in the next two weeks are:

A Ceilidh at the Arts Guild on Thursday, January 12th at 7.30pm, with local entertainment. Mark it on your calendar and drop in!
A Spaghetti Supper at the St. Pius X Church on Thursday, January 19th at 6.00 pm. Please come and bring a friend along!

Forum with the Queens County Ministerial Association

2006-01-06T22:45:00.000-04:00

I spent the day canvassing in the Orchard Hill Park subdivision. It was extremely warm - almost unbelievable for that matter.

One of the great benefits of the door-to-door canvas is that you meet a lot of great people. It is surprising the number of people who have chosen to retire in Charlottetown. The number of ethnic people living her now is also surprising.

I had a great visit with a Korean couple living on Kirkcaldy. Their young children are extremely talented musicians. I met them before and am astonished at how quickly they have picked up English.

At noon, I, along with a number of the other candidates, had a two hour forum with the Queens County Ministerial Association. Seeing first hand the hostility at some of these forums, I must say this meeting was truly refreshing. We introduced ourselves, had prayers, talked about some of the issues and had a roast beef lunch.

My heartfelt thanks goes out to the Queens County Ministerial Association; the Association's president, Rev. David Filsenger; our hosts, Rev. Tom and Rev. Paula Hamilton; and the ladies from St. Mark's Presbyterian Church who prepared the meal. You are all great people and I know I speak for all candidates in saying how much we enjoyed your hospitality.

Earlier this evening, Yvette and I went out to Riverbend Estates (behind the French school) . The percentage of people home was high and we only got two streets done.

Health Care and Radio Call-In Show

2006-01-05T22:36:00.000-04:00

Another great day weather-wise. I spent the day in the Grace Baptist subdivision. I cannot believe the amount of new home construction that has gone on in Charlottetown during the past five years. In this subdivision, there were many young families so early childhood development and health care seemed to be the main priority areas.

The health care issue is extremely challenging. Although there is a lot more money going into the system, we still have many challenges. In fact, I have talked to a lot of health care providers and they all say that further changes in our systems are needed. On the other hand, I do talk to a lot of people who have used the system and are very pleased.

At noon I participated in the CBC regional call-in show with Gerald Keddy, Yvon Godin and Sharon Labchuk. The topic was environmental issues.

I spent Thursday evening on Thornedale Avenue. My last call around 9.30 pm was a chat with Leo Kelly - we played on the same hockey team 40 years ago.

All Candidate's Forum on Labour Issues

2006-01-04T23:24:00.000-04:00

I spent the day out in the Sherwood area. The weather was great and it is supposed to be good tomorrow also. Because everyone is back to work, we were only striking about 30% at home, although that does increase substantially after 3.30 p.m. I had lunch at the Town and Country restaurant.

Earlier this evening, I attended the All Candidate's Forum hosted by the Public Service Alliance of Canada. There were about 40-50 people there and we had a good discussion on the issues, mainly involving federal government employees. The federal government employs about 1500 people in the Charlottetown area and is probably the area's largest employer. The forum was very well organized. I have added a few pictures from the event to my photo album.

Tomorrow, at noon, I am in a CBC regional phone-in show, which airs at 1.00 p.m. Costas is the host, and the topic is environmental issues

Focus on the Positive

2006-01-03T22:15:00.000-04:00

A full day on the trail, going door-to-door. I spent the morning in the Century Terrace and York Lane areas, the afternoon in Spring Park and the evening in Sherwood. The weather was cold, but we really cannot complain since it is the middle of winter.

The Conservatives started their negative ads. I don' know if these will work for them or against them. In any regard, I don't think they will be effective on PEI. They take statements, which are all false, to develop a message or theme. They are about the Gomery Report.

I don't excuse or defend that probem. I would like to, however, point out that it happened seven years ago. Corrective action was taken four years ago, and Prime Minister Martin did the correct thing in calling a public inquiry.

I will, throughout the campaign, accentuate the positive: the economic record; the protection and enhancement of our social programs; the additional resources being put into health care and the tax cuts. Locally, I will focus on what we have been able to achieve at UPEI and Holland College, in all areas of Charlottetown (including the downtown core, which has been revitalized through a number of initiatives), and for the area's arts and culture community.

I would be more than pleased to debate anyone on my record.

Back on the Trail

2006-01-02T22:07:00.000-04:00

The first day back doing door-to-door canvassing. As today would be a holiday for many people, we did not start until 10.00 a.m. I spent the day in Winsloe, an area that I did not represent until about 18 months ago.

At 1.00, Wayne Easter and I did an interview with Lee-Ellen Carroll of CPAC. She is doing a one hour special on the four PEI ridings. It was a nice setting for the interview - part of it was done in a restaurant and part of it down in Earl Smith's barn. I understand the show will be aired Thursday night at 10.00 pm.

I spent the evening in a 40 unit apartment building at 33 Kensington Road. I had a great visit with Barry Doyle and his mother. Barry is the province's number 1 Montreal Canadiens fan. He showed me all his Canadiens pictures.

Levee Day

2006-01-01T23:13:00.000-04:00

This is levee day. I started at 10.00 am and went until around 5.30 pm.

Started at the Lieutenant-Governor's, then went to the Mayor's; the UPEI President's; the Queen Charlotte Naval Centre; the Armouries', the Bishop's; the Mason's; the Premier's; the Legion's and, as a grand finale, I went to a levee being hosted by Gordie Dunn at the Sports Page.

Each New Year's Day, Gordie Dunn, who until earlier this year operated an illegal liquor establishment (at least so it is told), would host a popular levee serving beef on the bun. Although his establishment is closed (again, so it is told), he continued the tradition at the Sports Page. Legends and traditions never die.

There seemed to be a big crowd out this year. It really is an enjoyable time - you see people you don't see all year. I may have been mistaken, but I thought I saw Parkdale Doris out and about. If so, you will hear about it Wednesday morning.

The last two levees of the evening are at the curling club and the firehall, both of which I missed. Because Monday is a holiday for many people, it looked to me like a lot of people were going a little longer and harder than normal - so much for all those resolutions!

Lee Ellen Carroll and a camera crew from CPAC were at both the Premier's Levee and the Sports Page Levee doing interviews on the federal election. From what I saw, it might be an entertaining show and one worth watching.

Yvette and I want to take this opportunity to wish all of you a very happy, healthy and prosperous new year - all the best in 2006

New Year's Eve 2005

2005-12-31T22:58:00.000-04:00

The last day of the year and, I believe, day 35 of the election campaign. I think someone should pass a law outlawing election campaigns throughout the Christmas holidays.

This is the day you are supposed to make your New Year's resolutions. My resolution is to learn to bark like a dog. Everyone, and I repeat, everyone in Charlottetown owns at least one dog. The smaller they are, the noisier they are.

Dropped into the farmer's market expecting to order my usual mushroom and cheese omlette. I was surprised that many of the vendors were not open and the crowd was about half what it usually is.

Yvette and I generally do not go out on New Year's Eve and this year was no exception. Watched the Beverly Hillbillies movies and Reba on T.V. Didn't see the new year in - woke up feeling great.

2005 Nearing Its End

2005-12-30T23:21:00.000-04:00

The year is gradually coming to an end. 2005 is almost over. It just seems that years go by so fast. It seems like yesterday we were all worrying because everything was going to turn off on January 1, 2000.

Spent the day making a few selected visits and had 2-3 meetings in the campaign office.

This evening, Yvette and I attended the Rocket game. They pulled out a 2 goal victory before a sell-out crowd. The team put on a first class show, especially the goaltender, Ryan Mior.

Income Trusts

2005-12-29T22:03:00.000-04:00

I spent the day at the office and visiting selected people in the riding. The actual door-to-door canvass will resume next week. I’m out a lot, and for some reason people just don’t want to talk about the election. That will probably change next week.

I find the situation surrounding the income trust investigation rather bizarre. There was a high volume of trading in securities prior to finance minister Ralph Goodale making his announcement on November 23rd. This could have been based on a rumour of leaked information. The RCMP have stated that they are doing a criminal investigation, but at the same time state that there is no evidence to suggest Goodale, his staff, or his department are guilty of any wrongdoing. It seems to me the RCMP, given the circumstances, should state who they are investigating and the nature of their investigation. I agree that anyone in government subject to a specific criminal investigation should resign at least until the investigation is concluded. In my view, the RCMP owe the public a further explanation.

On a less serious note, earlier this evening I attended the Abbies game. They played alright, but lost the game 3-2.

Reunion Dance

2005-12-28T21:02:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday evening, Yvette and I attended a reunion dance at the Basilica Recreation Centre to the “Chosen Few” and the “Outcasts”. For those of you who are not as old as I am, the “Chosen Few” was a popular band that played in Charlottetown in the late 60’s. Members were Bobby Doyle; Bill MacIntyre; Ron Jeffery; Brian Burke; and George Antoniak.

They came back together and put on a terrific performance. They were joined by my friend, Tracy Olsen, on keyboard. The place was packed, and there was a ton of people I hadn’t seen in 35 years.

The “Chosen Few” were joined by the “Outcasts”, another popular band from the same era. Somehow, I think you will see another of those reunions put on in the not too distant future.

Special Ballot Voting and Opening Ceremonies

2005-12-27T23:09:00.000-04:00

Things are still pretty quiet on the campaign trail. People are still in the holiday mood, and there are very few people talking politics.

I spent the day at the MP Constituency Office and the Campaign office – mainly meeting with some of the campaign volunteers and making phone calls.

Once issue being worked on is the students who attend university outside of the province, and are home for Christmas. These kids can vote at the office of the Returning Officer. The office is located within the Confederation Court Mall (take elevator behind the Bank of Nova Scotia), and the office is on the 4th floor. To vote, a person would need some form of identification.

Earlier this evening, I attended the opening ceremonies of the first annual George Trainor Hockey Tournament. The organizers did a great job presenting a testimonial on the late George Trainor. George’s widow, Kay, and two of his three children, Melissa and Brad, were there. It was a very touching ceremony which I think a lot of people appreciated.

Earlier today (actually 5:30 this morning), Yvette and I took our son Kevin to the airport. He returned to the Cayman Islands where he works. His visit was short, and we were both sad to see him leave.

A Winter Cold

2005-12-26T23:07:00.000-04:00

A long miserable day fighting off the effects of a winter cold. I felt miserable all day. I started taking Advil, and slept for 3 – 4 hours throughout the day. Not a great way to spend Boxing Day.

I was planning on going to the Abbies game, but opted instead for the den couch. I spent the day reading, sleeping, and taking medication.

On the positive side, if you are going to get sick during an election campaign, I suppose Boxing Day would be the day to do it.

By the end of the day, I was feeling quite a bit better.

Christmas at Home

2005-12-25T22:05:00.000-04:00

Remember those exciting Christmas mornings when the kids would get up at 6:30 – 7:00 am and the family would open their presents amid chaos? Well, when your children are 26, 24 and 21, this doesn’t happen anymore.

Yvette and I got up around 8:00 am, and went for a Christmas morning walk around Victoria Park. The weather was great, and you could hear a pin drop (just a few crows).

Once we got home, the boys got up and we opened our presents. Although peaceful and nice, you do need children to put the “excitement” in Christmas.

Later that afternoon, we went to my brother Danny’s home in Stanhope for our family Christmas dinner. There were about 30 of us there and it was a very enjoyable evening.

One downside to this long election campaign is that I managed to pick up a cold. By Sunday evening, I wasn’t feeling that great, and I could tell that the next couple of days were going to be spent recuperating.

Christmas Eve Traditions

2005-12-24T22:03:00.000-04:00

Again, a very quiet day, most of which was spent home with my family.

Late Saturday morning, Yvette and I went to the Farmer’s Market to pick up a few items – then onto the Superstore for some last minute grocery shopping. Surprisingly, it wasn’t that busy.

On Saturday evening, we all visited my mother’s on Riverview Drive. From there, we attended the 9:00 pm church service at Holy Redeemer. The choir, as always, was tremendous. It is a sad Christmas for choir members as their long time Director, Jack Blanchard, passed away about ten days ago.

Following family tradition, we went home and everyone was allowed to open one present.

Winding Down As Christmas Nears

2005-12-23T23:02:00.000-04:00

No door-to-door canvassing today. Much too close to Christmas. Had a few appointments in the morning.

On Friday afternoon, I dropped into a few of the local “watering holes” to say hello. Spent Friday evening home with my family. We had an enjoyable dinner with the whole family being home.

Who I Had Lunch With and What We Talked About

2005-12-23T17:43:00.000-04:00

As we are only three days from Christmas, it was decided that I would stop door-to-door canvassing out of respect for the Christmas season.

I had some meetings at the constituency office this morning. Earlier in the morning I had a workout at the Spa.
At noon I had lunch at Papa Joe's with the group that I referred to in my December 20th entry. Five of the group were able to attend. I bet you are dying to know what we talked about. I'm not going to tell you! It's all on their website at www.whatwetalkedaboutatlunch.com. They also told me they are setting up a live podcast of them cooking their Christmas dinner. If you are looking for something to do on Christmas day, this is it.

Believe it or not, earlier this afternoon I did some Christmas shopping.

At 4.00 pm, we had a little Christmas social at the constituency office and then I attended a Christmas social hosted by the Capital Commission at Fairholm.

I want to take the opportunity to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas, and all the best over the entire Christmas season.

Childcare & Young Liberals Christmas Social

2005-12-21T22:31:00.000-04:00

I spent the day in the Parkwood mobile home subdivision at the end of Kensington Road. In this area, they take their politics seriously. Joe Kelly is the big Conservative, and Benny MacEachern is the big Liberal. I get a lot of advice from both these characters.

At around 11.00 am, I dropped into a Christmas Open House hosted by C.H.A.N.C.E.S. There was a big crowd there (mostly mothers and their pre-school children), and I enjoyed myself. On many issues there isn't that much difference between the Liberal and Conservative positions, but childcare is one area that I feel strongly about. We have to move ahead on the steps we have already taken.

At 2.00 pm, I met with about 20-30 residents of Charlotte Courts. We talked about a lot of issues, some of which were provincial in scope.

Earlier this evening I attended social at Dooly's, hosted by the Young Liberals. There were about 40-50 there. (mostly UPEI students) and it was very interesting getting their thoughts on some of the issues. My son, Brian, a U of T student, and my son, Kevin, who works in the Grand Cayman Islands, both attended the social along with many of their friends. I posted a few pictures from the evening in my photo album.

Dogs & Discussions

2005-12-20T09:33:00.000-04:00

Another great day weather wise. I spent the day on Walthen Drive, Upper Hillsborough Street, and Orlebar Street. I found a lot of people at home, and the going was slow.

At this point in the campaign, I am convinced that everyone, and I repeat everyone, has a dog. I can't believe the noise some of these dogs make. If the dog comes to the window, that means no one is at home.

I had a great chat with Clee Gillis on Upper Hillsborough Street. Clee coached me in hockey 39 years ago and I worked with him for seven summers at Canada Packers. I always considered him a great person.

Had lunch at the 1911 jail. Ran into a group of younger persons who have lunch every day and post their discussions on their website - www.whatwetalkedaboutatlunch.com. What a great idea!

Earlier this evening I had a meeting with some winter guests at MacLaughlan's Best Western and then had a meeting with about 30 poll captains at campaign headquarters.

Our son, Brian, arrived from Toronto at 6.30. The big change is the phone. It hardly rings and now it rings constantly.

Christmas Open House and Arrivals at the Murphy Household

2005-12-19T22:05:00.000-04:00

Another long day on the campaign. The weather was terrific; the temperature must have reached 0 degrees during the day, and there was very little wind all day.

I spent the morning and afternoon on Walthen Drive. For some reason, there were a lot of people at home and people wanted to chat. Didn't finish the street (at that rate, it would take me a year to finish the district). Again, there is no particularly burning issue - a whole hodge podge of issues and concerns.

In the afternoon, I dropped into the Newcomer's Association Christmas open house. There were a lot of languages spoken there, although Spanish was prominent. For those of you out there that are interested "Papa Noel" is Spanish for Christmas and "Feliz Nevidad" is Spanish for Merry Christmas. Don't ask me anything else.

In the evening, my wife and I canvassed in East Royalty - actually she drove the van. Again, there were a lot of people home and the weather was great.

The big news around our house is that tomorrow two of our three sons arrive home for Christmas. Kevin comes home from the Cayman Islands, and Brian from Toronto. Yvette and I are looking forward to having them home.

Sunday Skate & Socialising

2005-12-18T23:01:00.000-04:00

Sunday is generally a quiet day during a federal election, although I seemed to have quite a bit on today.

The routine Sunday morning is church and a visit at my mother's on Riverview Drive. I had a few hours off early Sunday afternoon, which I used for a workout.

I hosted a family skate at Simmonds arena from 2.30 to 4.00 pm. I do this every year around Christmas. It is wonderful to see the families with their young children learning how to skate. We had a great crowd and you can see more pictures from the event in my pho to album.

Late Sunday afternoon, Yvette and I attend a social at Lynwood and Martha Jay's in Stratford. They used to live across the street from us on Berkley Way. The social was for old and new neighbours.

On Sunday evening I attended Bruce Ellis' wake. I knew Bruce for at least 45 years. I don't know anyone who went to more hockey games in the last 50 years than Bruce Ellis. He leaves a large family, most of whom reside in Stanhope or Charlottetown.

Crowds in Charlottetown the Weekend Before Christmas

2005-12-17T10:42:00.000-04:00

Today was a nice winter day, although it did get colder in the afternoon. Spent the day on Mount Edward Road. On Saturday, you cannot start before 10.00 am and I used the first 1 1/2 hours for a quick workout at The Spa.

This city was a zoo on Saturday, and Mount Edward Road was no exception. I guess the traffic around the Charlottetown Mall was out of this world.

I had lunch at the Farmer's Market. As usual, there was a large crowd. I think I may have spotted Parkdale Doris there. I had a good chat with my friend, Joseph Sammoun. He keeps me up to date on the political situation, which has been quite volatile since the assassination of Rafic Hariri.

That evening, Yvette and I went out to Riverbend Estate - I cannot believe the number of homes in that subdivision.

Ceremonies, Canvassing and the Confederation Centre

2005-12-16T10:25:00.000-04:00

Things were more or less back to normal today.

At 9.00 am, I participated in the opening ceremonies of the East Coast Short Course Championships, hosted by SwimPEI at the new CARI facility. This is a large tournament with 22 swim teams participating. This is a tremendous facility, which I hope the community is proud of.

I spent the rest of the day canvassing in the Parkdale area, specifically Gower Street, Confederation Street, and Harley Street. This is a mature area and I know a lot of the residents. I enjoyed the day outside.

Red Cheverie and I had lunch at Maid Marions (what a crowd).

That evening I attended a reception hosted by BTC at 42nd Street Lounge and by BGHJ Architects at their offices. There was a large, diverse crowd at this event.

Later that evening, my wife and I attended Ode De L'Acadie at the Confederation Centre. What a performance and what a crowd (about 750 - 800). It's wonderful to see the events that the Confederation Centre has during the season.

Apartment Buildings Again

2005-12-15T10:19:00.000-04:00

This was sort of the second storm day. You couldn't really get around that well and the schools and many offices were still closed.

Like yesterday, I spent the day inside apartment buildings. I was in apartment buildings on Upper Queen, Spring Park, Upper Prince and Waterview Heights. A good percentage of the people were at home.

Late in the afternoon, I attended an open house at the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, and a reception hosted by Deltaware at the Culinary Institute.

That evening, I went back into the apartment buildings.

First Winter Storm of the Season

2005-12-14T15:19:00.000-04:00

In all the years that I have been working in elections, this is my first experience with a winter storm (I was in Ottawa during Hurricane Juan, which hit during the last provincial election).

On a day like this, I think the only thing you can do is canvas in an apartment building. Also, because of it being a storm day, it is hard to start before 10:00 am, as many people don't get going until then.

Spent the morning and about half the afternoon in Harbourside #1 and Harbourside #2. About 60% were home. I spent the rest of the day at Waterview Heights.

I ran into my Grade One teacher, Grace MacKinnon. Grace taught at Spring Park School in the 50's and 60's and moved out West for 30 years. She is 95 years old and in great shape - we had a great chat.

At 6.00 pm, I dropped into a retirement reception for Barb Simpson at Arsenault Best Cameron Ellis. Barb started working at this firm 50 years ago - amazing.

Earlier this evening I was at Queen's Court and on the way home I dropped into Winston Judson's 80th birthday party.

Canvassing Grafton Street and East Royalty

2005-12-13T15:09:00.000-04:00

This was a relatively clear day going door-to-door, with very few interruptions.

I spent the whole day on Grafton Street, going from end to end. I stopped at homes and at small businesses on this street and the weather was great. There are a surprising number of Holland College students living on the west end of Grafton Street.

This evening I was in East Royalty, canvassing on MacRae Drive and a newer subdivision off the East Royalty Road. I cannot believe the new build in that area. I ended up knowing a lot of people, but just didn't know they lived in this new subdivision.

Again, the issues change depending on where you are. Health care is still the predominant issue, although not as pronounced as a year and a half ago.

Grafton Street and Christmas Receptions

2005-12-12T14:38:00.000-04:00

Boy, what can I say about this weather? It's December 12th, and it's 2 degrees and sunny. No matter what happens now, I think we are in for a short winter.

This morning, Yvette and I attended the funeral for the late Cora Callaghan. This was the first time I was ever in the Fort Augustus Catholic Church. Darren Peters sang a couple of solos and it was a nice ceremony with a reception afterwards at the Fort Augustus hall.

Had a nice chat with Jimmy Dunn - one of the pall bearers. My suspicion is that there isn't too much that happens in Fort Augustus that Jimmy wouldn't know about.

I spent the afternoon canvassing the Grafton Street area. Met some very interesting people. This evening I attended three Christmas receptions: the President's reception at Holland College; a reception at the Holiday Inn Express; and, finally, one at the cancer treatment unit at the QEH. This was the first time I was in the new unit - very impressive.

No Campaigning Today

2005-12-11T14:35:00.000-04:00

In Prince Edward Island, election campaigning does not happen on Sundays, which is a good thing. I should add that in the larger cities like Toronto, candidates go door-to-door on Sunday, which is unfortunate for many different reasons.

After church and the Sunday morning visit at my mother's, my wife and I attended the wake of Cora Callaghan. Corinne Reid (Callaghan) and Lisa Callaghan both work in my MP office and their mother, Cora, died last Wednesday afternoon. Corinne and I have worked closely together for almost 20 years now.

Sunday evening I attended a Christmas social at our church, The Holy Redeemer. This is the first year they have held this and it was a nice event.

Brackley Point Road and Farmer's Market

2005-12-10T14:33:00.000-04:00

Saturday ususally starts a little later (it's a rule of thumb that you cannot start canvassing until 10.00 a.m.). I went to The Spa earlier in the morning (not so much for the body, but for the mind).

Started door-to-door on Brackley Point Road and spent the whole day there. I reached Oak Drive by 4.30 pm and am now convinced that everyone in Charlottetown owns a dog; some people have two or three.

A lot of seniors live along Brackley Point Road. Had a lengthy chat with a couple that have an autistic child. I have to agree with them that neither the federal government or the provincial government have done enough for these families.

I had lunch at the Farmer's Market. The extension there makes the dining room area a lot less crowded. I ran into Brian Pollard, the NDP candidate in Charlottetown.

Saturday evening my wife and I went back to the mobile home subdivision past the French school. For some reason I know a lot of people who live there and the going was slow.

Campaigning and the Carrefour

2005-12-09T14:32:00.000-04:00

This was another busy day on the campaign trail. I spent the day canvassing in the Sydney, King and Grafton street areas. On a day like this I fnd about one-third of people are home. As I mentioned previously, there do not seem to be any burning issues. There are issues, but you don't hear the same ones.

One issue that I do hear a lot about is the level of social assistance payments for single people. It appears to be about $225-$250 above the cost of rent. I know that there are less people on welfare now than there were ten years ago, but this is a serious issue. From an income support basis, governments (both federal and provincial) are not doing enough for seniors between 58 and 65. Many are on a fixed income or social assistance, are unable to work and receive very little in the way of income support. Things improve when they reach 65 and are eligible for the Guaranteed Income Supplement.

On Friday evening my wife, Yvette, and I went to a soiree at the Carrefour. Anastasia Desroches and others were playing. That evening, we went door-to-door canvassing in the mobile home subdivision just past the French school. The weather was great and I enjoyed the evening.

Canvasssing in the Cold

2005-12-07T14:22:00.000-04:00

This was the coldest day yet. With the wind chill, I believe the temperature dropped to -15 and it is only going to get colder.I spent the day at King and Sydney streets. I am amazed at how many older homes are being renovated. I had a great chat with the Grande Dame of Sydney Street, Catherine Hennessy. When we meet she usually has a list of concerns, but today there was no list - a truly wonderful lady.

Earlier this evening, I attended a Christmas reception hosted by the Confederation Centre of the Arts. It was held on the main stage. There was a good crowd and this was a good venue for the event. My wife, Yvette, attended the annual meeting of the Carrefour de l'isle-Saint-Jean. Things are going good there as school enrollment and day care numbers are both up.At the door, there don't seem to be any burning issues. You very seldom get the same issue more than twice in one day. That may change in the new year.I plan to canvas all day tomorrow and tomorrow night I will attend Lawrence MacAulay's nominating convention in St . Peter's.