From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Monday, October 1, 2001 12:07 AM
Subject: Canadians, Americans pay respects to officers killed in line of duty» Campbell’s terrorism talk diverts attention from slow B.C. economy, say activists» Half of Canadians were more afraid to fly after Sept. 11, half weren’t finds poll
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Boy, did I sleep in today. Shut the alarm off after it first went off at nine and slept in until noon. I think I needed it. Felt great.
Went to the store and bought milk, bread and a newspaper. Read it over French toast and coffee. Mohanad bought some really nice coffee last week. We both like strong coffee. Krishna called. He is going to Trinidad in march and wants us to visit. It would be nice, but I foresee myself being very poor by March.
Worked on the grants all day today. Exciting. Would have liked to have gone to Word on the Street but didn’t get out of the house. Had thought about going to work to put together a CD-ROM for one of the grants, but decided against it. I’ll put together the rest of the information for the grant today and will work on the CD-ROM tomorrow. I have no idea if it will work or not. At least the bulk of the body of the grants is mostly done now.
Watched a bit of TV tonight. The Simpsons, and some of the Sopranos. What a show. They curse and cuss like crazy. Saw a bit of a new show called Alias. It was so dumb I can’t even justify a comment. Pointless. Trevor came by to get some paint. He and Tamara are painting the front walkway of their apartment. They are going to drive us to Vicki and Peter’s for the big family get-together next weekend.
Still feeling a bit bummed out, but not as bad as the past week. I think it may be the war rhetoric. It all seems so misguided, so wrong. In fact, its not so much the war rhetoric or even the terrorist rhetoric, it is more like the “let’s get shopping” rhetoric that bugs me the most. It is like a vile attempt to kick-start the economy by convincing everyone to go shopping or to take a vacation, as if these things really matter. Like we don’t want such a big event to have a lasting impact on our lives, or to lead to us asking difficult questions. Questions that point to the thin and cracked veneer of our civilization, that reveal its inner flaws, that shows the disease underneath the buffed exterior. Let’s not disturb the status quo, get back to business, go shopping, watch TV, take a break. Continue the cycles. Rebuild the routines.
And on that note I’m going to finish your drawing and get to bed.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Monday, October 1, 2001 11:58 PM
Subject: High-level committee to oversee security, fundraising rules coming this week» Ottawa could increase shareholder limits to help Air Canada says Collenette» Canadian, American border screening differs in few key areas
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Karina woke me up a few times throughout the night. The first time was for help with a Photoshop tool. That was at one-thirty. At six-thirty it was because she had just come to bed and was cold and couldn’t sleep. And then I was up just past eight to get to work early and finish the grants.
Had more trouble with the CD-Rom than I had foreseen. Tried in vain to come up with some sort of Dreamweaver site, so the disc wouldn’t seem so average, but I couldn’t get it to work. Saved a Quicktime version of Tricia and Joel’s video, then accidentally trashed it, and had to record it again.
Aaron and James came by to interview me for their portfolio and practices class. I hope I provided good information for them. I tend to go on tangents.
Crystal came by and fixed her leaning stack of paper.
Managed to get the grants completed and into the NSAC office before 5pm, then went to NSCAD to meet Karina. Talked to Robbie for a bit. Went to the openings at Anna. Good photo shows to kick off Photopolis; Susan Cains’ “Twenty Eight corner stores, twenty eight years later” and the Atomic Photographers Guild. Both warrant another visit. I had run into Andréa earlier and she was under the impression that we are alternating with the oil painting class, and tonight was my turn. So I couldn’t stay at the gallery long. Ran into Sarah. She wants to take over the Outspoken Series. Said the last one was a debacle. I knew it was bad, but didn’t think it was that bad. It does require more dedication than I can provide, so it is a good thing she wants to take it over.
Biked home, gathered up my painting and teaching supplies, ate a couple peanut butter and jam sandwiches, watched a bit of the news with Mohanad, then biked to class. It was raining, but not too hard. Didn’t get too wet.
Class went well. I gave a rough demo. It is hard to paint quickly and concisely in front of a group. Especially if one hasn’t practiced. But it all went well, and there are some good painters in the class. I enjoy teaching when I am there, it is just the effort of getting there that causes me anxiety.
Watched The Sopranos when I got home. I think I am officially hooked on that show.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Tuesday, October 2, 2001 11:51 PM
Subject: Ottawa announces new regulations to crack down on terrorist financing» Canadian sovereignty called into question in fight against terrorism» Federal government eyes restructuring; announces aid for airline industry
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Woke up on time this morning, had some breakfast and coffee and then cycled to work. Had to get a media release for the upcoming exhibitions out today, so designed it, printed it and prepared the envelopes. Lucas came in for his first day of work at the KDMC but there wasn’t much action; only a handful of people came in all day. He helped me fold and stuff envelopes. Bradley came in later in the afternoon. Had a talk with him about how he was recently barred from the Club. He refused to pay cover for one of the media centre presentations and climbed in the window “as a joke”. He sees it as harmless fun, but Craig took it differently. Can’t just have people crawling in the front windows of the Club. It’s a reputable business, after all.
Milada called from Mix Magazine today. Asked me if I wanted to do an artist page on the them of “attention:economy”. I’d like to, but just need to figure out how to adapt my work into the magazine page format. And the deadline is in three weeks or so. Not much time. Thinking of sending a version of the letters.
Had supper with Karina at the Med. She was upset because the roll of film she shot last night at home was ruined. Something to do with the aperture setting being wrong for the flash. She had lugged heavy lighting equipment home to shoot portraits of myself and Rebecca and Mohanad. The assignment is due tomorrow and the lighting studio and the take-home lights were all booked tonight.
Met with Spencer to discuss the upcoming Gong Show. It is developing nicely. Ran into Renato at the Club and we ended up discussing studio spaces, and it turns out he was looking for one. I showed him the one space left in the Turret and he agreed to take it, so that saves me a bit of a headache. I was beginning to worry that we wouldn’t be able to fill it. It is bad enough that we are losing out on the Carleton House rent for storage this month, and Larissa’s share now that she is leaving Andréa’s studio. It is nice to have the Turret full once again.
After my meeting with Spencer I went to NSCAD and helped Karina with a mat she was cutting to frame some small photographs. She had things under control so I biked home and actually made a trip to my studio. I set the alarm getting into the room, of course. And then once there realized I had left all my newspaper images at home, so walked back to retrieve them. Grabbed a slice of Pizza from Korka on my way back to the studio. Started work on the painting I’ll submit for the Venue One O One show in little over a week. Just managed to get a background done, then couldn’t do any more as the paint needed to dry and set.
Felt nice to get into the studio for a change. Must try to get home earlier from now on and make time for it. Soon it will be a regular routine, ha-ha.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Wednesday, October 3, 2001 11:58 PM
Subject: McLellan warns against undermining civil liberties in fight against terrorism» National Library warns treasures disappearing after losing 25,000 items» Seven people arrested as Montreal police evict about 30 squatters
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Woke up early again as Karina had set the alarm for six-thirty so she could call Judy and ask her if a white frame was OK for the work she was putting on the bus today. Since I was up I decided to get some groceries, it has been a long time. The bike basket and container are quite handy for buying groceries. I didn’t need any plastic bags.
Not a terribly exciting day at work today. Did some bookeeping. Luca showed me how to set up Appletalk on the Macs.
Went to a NSCAD awards ceremony at five. This semesters scholarship recipients were given their awards in the Anna Leonowens. Karina was receiving a Centennial Scholarship. There was a good spread of food afterwards.
Karina and I caught a bus up to Quinpool Road to go to Canadian Tire. I finally got around to returning that portable phone that never really worked all that well. I tried to exchange it for another, but they wouldn’t accept it because they no longer carry that model. Go figure. They do have, of course, a full display case of various portable phones, just not that particular brand or model or whatever. I picked one out and was going to pay by cheque but we don’t have a Canadian Tire card so they wouldn’t take the cheque. That was about it for me, and I left without buying anything. I’ll get the phone from Radio Shack or something.
Karina had a doctor’s appointment to go to, so I walked back downtown, ate my lunch and read from one of the Prefix magazines that were dropped off today, then biked up to Dal. There was an opening tonight of the Lynne Cohen retrospective. A good-looking show, her photos look great in larger format, but the frames are ghastly. Bob seemed to think that it is part of her strategy, that she is using display materials that speak of a certain… damn, I can’t think of the word. Too tired.
Karina bought the Lynne Cohen book, it was launching tonight and there was a deal on the hardcover version. I hope the curator is a better writer than a speaker. Karina and Rebecca biked home, I walked. Was feeling particularly tired when I got home. Am thinking about the voracious reaction to Sunera Thobani’s comments the other day. Her language may have been extreme, and I don’t think she was justifying Sept. 11, just trying to determine where the hatreds and motivation comes from. It goes to show how pointing out difficult truths at this time is not acceptable. Strong and free, eh?
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Friday, October 5, 2001 12:11 AM
Subject: New anti-terror amendments to be introduced to Criminal Code on Oct. 15» Tories balk at Caplan pressure to rush immigration law through Senate» Activists spray-paint Montreal’s City Hall to protest eviction of squatters
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Started to wade into the mess that is the Khyber and the KDMC petty cash sheet, but the task looked too daunting so I left it for another day. Was’t really functional until having some coffee anyway. Didn’t have my first until later in the morning. After walking down to Radio Shack and buying a phone and making a bank deposit. The portable phones were all too expensive so I just bought a regular phone. Well, not just regular, but a “fashion” phone. It is a hue of red that matches the KDMC table. Of course, didn’t find out until later that it has a very annoying ring. They don’t let you test them in the store.
Worked on Khyber Kids PR with Andréa today, some email correspondence with Sarah about the letters to cultural ministers, and learned some new Photoshop techniques from Jacob. Lucas is still trying to get all the computers printing to all the printers. We are still missing our Windows ’98 startup disk. Some new users signed up to use the Centre. It’s chugging right along, I think.
Tashia came by, she is back from Thailand. She is glad to be back but needs to move out of her apartment as Sandra has transformed it in the month and half that Tachia has been gone. There is a puppy there now, and Sandra has turned the backyard into a big studio, and filled the apartment with lots of stuff. Tashia offered to come by on a weekly basis to help out, which was nice of her.
Worked on the Heritage Canada grant off and on for most of the afternoon, then went down to the NSCAD woodshop to meet Karina before the Lynne Cohen talk tonight. We walked up to Dal, stopping at Pita Boys on the way for a snack. The talk was enjoyable, Lynne is funnier than I would have initially thought, given the depressing subject matter of a lot of her photographs. She didn’t bring a whole lot of background or reasoning behind her work, but enough so that I enjoyed it. Waited with Karina at a bus stop for a bit before cycling home. Would have liked to have gone to the studio tonight but it was past ten when I got home; too late. Helped Andrew set up the air mattress on the living room floor. Ate some stale chips. Am gong to try out some of the new Photoshop tricks I learned today.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Friday, October 5, 2001 11:10 PM
Subject: Ottawa eyes international spy agency in wake of terrorist attacks in U.S.» Jobless rate of 7.2 per cent in ‘last hurrah’ of weakening economy» B.C. threatens to cut off welfare recipients who don’t seek work
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Felt a tad hurried and harried at work today. Scrambling to get press releases out. Tried to call volunteers to help stuff envelopes on Tuesday but so far, no luck. Talked to Randy in Kingston. He is still adjusting to the place. He doesn’t know where the Windows ’98 start-up disk would be. I can’t believe that we have lost it.
Karina came by towards the end of the day, I waited with her for a bit at Carsand Mosher while she looked at camera lenses and bought some film. Walked down to NSCAD with her and had a nap on the couch in the photo department while she picked up lights and a 4×5 camera. Was feeling drained and hungry, and needed to power down. Trevor came to pick us up and drove the gear to our apartment. It is going to be a tight squeeze in the car tomorrow, with us, Trev and Tamara, Sierra, food and blankets and all the photo gear. Luckily it is not very far, under 2 hours I believe. We are going to Lockport to spend the long weekend at my Aunt Vicki’s new cabin.
Trevor and Karina drove out to Price Club to get supplies while I made some supper. Managed to get to the studio afterwards and made some progress on my painting for the Danube Cafe show. It felt good to paint, I think it relieved some mounting stress. Had been feeling down as of late.
Mohanad rented a bunch of movies, so I am going to finish this letter and your drawing and relax for the rest of the evening.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Monday, October 8, 2001 11:39 PM
Subject: Canada sending ships, planes, special forces to join war on terror» NATO more relevant than ever with stand against terrorism: secretary-general» Police on high alert at airport, embassies; travellers warned about backlash
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Had a fairly relaxing weekend away. Wasn’t able to write as there was no computer hookup, and besides, I was on vacation. Trevor and Tamara picked us up Saturday around noon, and remarkably, we were able to fit everything into the car, and fairly comfortably. The drive only took two hours down the South Shore. Sierra sat up front.
Vicki and Peter have a great spot along a long beach with white sand near Lockeport. The cabin is quite spacious. Mom and Dad and Aaron had arrived about a half hour before we did. Dad went to visit Grammy and Grampy. Grampy had a stroke last week but is doing fine. Helped Peter attach some steps to the porch. There are still little projects to complete around the cottage.
Played along the beach on Saturday, threw a football around. Threw my arm out, I think. Mom had made lasagna for everyone for supper that night, and a vegetarian one for me. Meaning lasagna without the meat. I’m still not drinking, but mom spilled a glass of red wine all over me during dessert. I took the stained clothes down to the salt water to rinse them out. It is quite a distance to walk out when it is low tide. We played “Trivial Pursuit” and then a card game called “Big Momma” to round out the evening
Nanny and Poppy and my cousins Erin and Mathew came on Sunday. Dug some deep trenches in the sand, then it rained so we went indoors to play cards. When the sun came back out we had a golf pitching contest. Then we turned the trenches into a big sand sculpture of a face with the help of Andrew from next door. He’s in grade five.
Had Thanksgiving supper Sunday night. Good turkey, from what I was told. The sweet potatoes were quite delicious. No spilled wine tonight. Lemon meringue pie for dessert.
Karina and I set up the 4×5 camera and the lights to take some pictures. We had to rush as Nanny and Poppy were planning to leave early. Nanny has just come back from France, and managed to catch a cold on the tail end of her trip. Karina and Aaron both developed cold symptoms this weekend. I will probably end up sick by the end of the week.
The photo sessions went fine, though Karina was plagued by technical problems for some of her other shots. Will just have to wait and see how the film develops.
Started up a beach fire after dark. It was cold and windy so the fire didn’t through a lot of heat, though there is something comforting about it. Stood around with everyone and the neighbours next door, good friends of Pete and Vicki, and learned and discussed a bit the bombing going on. Sort of puts a damper on the vacation. Though it was probably always there. No one I talk to agrees about bombing anyone. And there seem to be many petitions floating around denouncing this sort of action. Do you not get them? Maybe I should forward a few to you.
We played cards, “Big Momma”, again, but it didn’t have the same spark as Saturday. Pete went to bed early as he had to work in the morning. Luckily the wood stove was going all day, as it gets quite chilly out there at night. We had plenty of blankets though. Watched a nice orange half-moon rise beyond the island across the water.
Woke up this morning, had breakfast, washed dishes and more or less loafed around. Read some more of the art magazines I had brought along, played 45’s with Trev and Karina. Mom, Dad and Aaron left mid-morning, and Matthew soon after. Karina and I walked out along the point but it was just about high tide and so it was rougher going along the rocks. And the wind was bitter.
Slept off and on during the drive home. All my muscles are stiff, and have a cut on my foot from stepping on an upturned root. Karina slept the whole way. We ate some babaghanoush when we got home then I took advantage of the early hour of the evening and went to the studio for a bit. I think I have finished the painting for the Danube Cafe. Am thinking of leaving the pencilled-on headline in pencil, rather than paint it. Plus, am out of time; Luke wants to pick up the painting tomorrow.
Smoked a bit with Mohanad tonight, and got really paranoid. Started to clean and organize the computer room but got caught up in reading old catalogues and finding other interesting things to read or look at. I am such a packrat. I need to take a month and just go through my things; all of them. Most of the stuff I keep tucked away I expect to look through and use, or might need to use, or there is a slim possibility of using, in the near, or distant, future. Packrat.
Watched a bit of the Sopranos, well most of it, but it was hard to watch tonight, what with everything going on in the world and in my head so eventually I just lost interest. Figured I’d write to you and finish your computer drawing and try to get to bed at a decent hour. There is a ton of work to catch up on tomorrow.
-chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Wednesday, October 10, 2001 12:09 AM
Subject: Florida letter to Montreal company likely doesn’t contain anthrax says doctor» Rock says Canadians have little to fear from “remote” anthrax threat» Terrorist attacks force space programs to focus on land-based security
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
It is Judy’s birthday tonday. Sent her off a brief birthday greeting first thing this morning. Feeling very tense and high strung today. It is probably the damn war. I can’t believe Canada is sending so many troops. To what end? It’s a crock of shit. A disgusting display.
Didn’t get any work done on the grant; it is really beginning to worry me. Still have a lot of info to compile. Rushed to get the Khyber Kids ad finished for the Coast, then went to make some bank deposits but forgot to bring the money, d’oh. Tonia dropped off her invitations and Sheila came by with a proof, but hers won’t be ready until tomorrow. Andréa hadn’t been in this weekend and so didn’t get the notes I had left for her so the Khyber Kids brochures weren’t ready in time anyway. The mailout will get done tomorrow and that’s good enough. Jacob and Andréa helped label and sort and stamp the envelopes. It was one of those days where lots of people were coming and going. Lots of activity. Spencer stopped by. So did Mat, surprisingly. And Leah, it was nice to see Leah again. Renato was moving into his studio so the plywood and leftover junk needed to be moved elsewhere. Nathaniel helped me move some of the plywood and drywall. Am going to try to build some shelves for Khyber Kids tomorrow.
I tried three times to eat my lunch around five o’clock, kept forgetting it in the microwave. When I finally got to it realized that it was the meat lasagna leftovers from the weekend. It must have been mixed together with the veggie lasagna. Of course it all looks the same. I gave it to Jacob and ate supper at the Med with Karina. Falafel plate. The falafel was crisp and tender tonight. It is always hit or miss.
Karina is super busy now with all her projects in full swing and managing the Women’s Collective. After supper we went back to the Khyber so I could finish up some posters and she could scan some negatives. Saw Ray waiting in the Club on our way home. He must have been waiting for Sarah and Greg to get out of the eyelevel board meeting that was going on. It would be nice to talk to him, but didn’t have time. Never any time, that is the problem. Noticed that Chris Woods is putting up an interesting display reminiscent of Mathew’s “Dog Star” installation in the eyelevel window space.
Biked home and took some laundry to Salims. It is great that they are open late. During the wash cycle picked up some groceries at Sobeys. After shopping threw clothes in the dryer and then biked home. Watched ten minutes of Frasier. Checked email. Back to Salims to fold and bring back laundry. Feeling more and more tense and stressed. Some vacation, the cottage on the beach seems like years ago now. Am going to try to get some work done on the grant tonight, maybe early tomorrow morning. Going to go finish your computer drawing now.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Wednesday, October 10, 2001 10:36 PM
Subject: Ottawa to spend $250 million on new security, anti-terrorism measures» Authorities won’t say if ‘The Canadian’ is on their wanted list» Lawyer for former B.C. premier Clark questions search warrant, investigation
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Woke up early this morning, even before the alarm went off. It must be from being so high-strung lately. Worked on the computer a bit, tried to get my email files in order. Had a shower and went to the store for milk and bread. Had a nice breakfast, mushroom omelet, drank coffee and read the newspaper, though really only skimmed it. The news seems to be getting worse. It is like living in a nightmare.
Had a hectic day, and was in a thoroughly foul mood by the end of it. Started promising enough; met with the pest control guy and he laid new traps and added more poison. Hopefully we will see less of our fine furry friends as a result. Met with Sally and Michelle and made plans and a call for submissions for a live-art performance night to be held in February. But the rest of the day was a waste. Sheila couldn’t get her invites finished, and left them for Lucas and I to do. Lucas worked on them but then couldn’t get them to print. Jacob came by to help and stayed most of the afternoon. Sally came to help too. Karina had accidentally borrowed a zip disk that had the Khyber Kids brochure on it. By the end of the day, my nerves almost shot, Steve shows up wanting to know how to get ads for his ‘zine. I tried to explain the best I could, but how does one do that?
Stopped by Sarah’s on the way home to plan the agenda for the board meeting tomorrow. Biked home and had supper with Karina, then Rebecca and I biked to St. Mary’s for the opening. We picked up Lucie on the way and biked together. Karina took the bus; we all arrived at the same time. The show of Cuban photography was good, a nice variety of work, though a lot of it seemed somewhat conservative. I liked the enlarged digital prints and the re-photographed photographs of collaged cartoons. We stopped to admire Mat’s painting on our way out, then Rebecca and I biked home. Karina took the bus. I thought about going back to work but it is late; I’ll just go in extra early tomorrow. Need to check my email now, as I haven’t had a chance all day.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Thursday, October 11, 2001 11:52 PM
Subject: Canada is ‘ahead’ of United States when it comes to internal security: Manley» Fingerprint scanners will detect criminals, terrorists at airports» Finance ministers want early meet with Martin on slump, terror impact
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Another early morning. Finished Shiela’s invitation, but then we ran out of ink while printing additional pages. She came in and helped stuff envelopes, as did Sally and Jacob. A few people called to volunteer for Mugshots, including Amanda, who has been living in Toronto the past year. It is good to have help.
Mern called, and we discussed the Cultural Spaces grants. She had good advice. I am going to pass this Mondays deadline and concentrate on a better application for the end of November.
Craig came by with gifts for the tenants of the building today; mousetraps. I think the combo of traps and poison may drastically cut down on the furry sightings. Of course, I forgot to set the traps in the office tonight.
I didn’t feel very efficient today, though I felt busy. Prepared for the board meeting tonight. Updated the financial flow chart, yuk. I don’t get along well with numbers. Only half the board showed up. I think Becka has been really busy trying to find a replacement for Catherine at CFAT. Winnie seemed to think that Dan was going away somewhere today. We discussed the proposal from Genesis and the proposal from MARC. The meeting was unusually brief, especially given that we waited a half hour for Briony. She had to stay for an opening at VANS. I think we accomplished a few things.
Walked home with Dan W. Talked of his book, work and the overly-bright Casino sign. He is coming to help with the membership database tomorrow. Played cards with Mohanad, Rebecca and Karina after I got home. We played Big Momma, of course.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Saturday, October 13, 2001 1:33 AM
Subject: Ottawa rolls out Maple Leaf ID card for new immigrants, more money for RCMP» Armed RCMP to guard Canadian flights to Washington’s Reagan airport» Sask. Premier Lorne Calvert dumps veteran ministers in cabinet shuffle
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Getting back into the groove of eating breakfast and taking a lunch to work. It has been my twisted versions of spinach salad for the past few days now.
Lucas had to leave early today, he is involved in the Pop Explosion. The KDMC was busy, and the office was its normal level of busy-ness. Called HRDC to see why they paid us less than I had expected from Alyssa’s job grant, and it turned out that according to them, they had actually overpaid us. Some stupidity around her actual start date being before the approved start date. On a positive note, the quarterly water bill was lower than anticipated. Yay. Also Dan came in this afternoon to help with the membership database. It was nice to have someone else in the office for awhile. Robbie came and finally picked up his dads projector. Ron came by to say hi as well.
Biked home and had supper, then a really brief power nap before heading out again. Our downstairs neighbours were playing guitar and singing in the bedroom directly downstairs, so my nap was quite brief. Rebecca, Karina, Mohanad and I caught a bus to the opening at Danube Cafe. There was quite a crowd there, all people I didn’t know, except for Sarah and Nathaniel and Jane, and then Tim and Emily. Luke seemed happy with the show, he and his brother had just hung it today, in a lovely half-hazard way. There was a live jazz band playing. Karina and I played a game of chess for most of our time there. I think Luke’s brother is going to buy the painting I made of you.
Karina and I went to the Khyber to see Julie Dorian. She was too mellow and we spent most of the time talking to Sarah and Tachia and Goody-B. I have to try to get up to Argyle sometime this week to see her show. Karina and I left in time to catch the last bus home.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Sunday, October 14, 2001 12:46 AM
Subject: NDP continues opposition to terror counter-strikes; seeks UN involvement» Stockwell Day says Opposition applauds Liberals’ anti-terrorism moves» RCMP mum on report Kuwaiti found with sensitive documents on Ottawa sites
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Went to the Market this morning. I wanted to distribute some pamphlets for Mugshots but lost interest in that right away. It was nice to just enjoy the ambiance of all the people and buying some fresh produce. There was even a mime there. I ordered a coffee from Steve-O-Renos and boy, was it ever hot. I needed an additional styrofoam cup to keep my hand from burning. Now isn’t that environmentally friendly.
A busy day at work this afternoon. There was a ship in port, so a fair number of passengers and a few that work on the ship came through the KDMC to check their emails. Sarah came by to design a poster for the next Outspoken. Karina started updating the bulletin board when she came by to visit but then she had to go off on a photo shot with Winnie. I fixed a toilet in the men’s washroom later in the afternoon, and lent the Club one of my office desks for the big Hip-Hop show tonight. We still need a dedicated DJ table. Maybe Mohanad will help me build one next week.
Karina and I split some fries at the Med, then I was back at work to help Winnie strike her show. It was easy enough, as there weren’t that many pieces to move. She is going to sand the floor on Monday and paint it on Tuesday. The gallery is now clear for Mugshots tomorrow.
Biked home and Mohanad, Rebecca and Karina were watching a tape of Kids in the Hall. What a great show that was. Made some supper, salad again. Was considering going back to the Khyber to see the show, as Craig was saying it will be the best rap show all year. I’m not really into rap that much, though. There were also good shows at the Marquee tonight, but I didn’t go to either. Stayed home and cleaned up the kitchen and the living room a bit. Had a talk with Karina. World events and my coolness the past month or so have been upsetting her. World events have been making it hard for everyone. She saw the mime on Spring Garden Road today; a passerby called the mime a freak. Sometimes I forget that most people are jerks.
I have a theory about immigration. The masses of people, the majority of people in the world in fact, are poor and don’t have near the luxuries we westerners have. Making it harder for people to immigrate to Canada simply keeps the masses out of our real sight, so no one really sees how our way of life has impacted the rest of the world, or not impacted it enough. The terrorist attacks have now given the right wing agenda an excuse to clamp down the borders, beef up military spending, and attempt to convince us all that shopping will make all the badness go away. The horrible thing is that all the jingoism has sucked up all the moderates as well. It is really quite depressing.
I must say I really enjoy the new Cake CD, though. Each album they put out is better than the last; great songwriting, and great grooves. I think I’ll email them and see if they are planning any tours towards Halifax. That would be a show I’d love to see.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Monday, October 15, 2001 12:19 AM
Subject: Alliance forum in B.C. highlights split vision of opposition party’s future» Canada allowing U.S. to divide provinces in softwood dispute: Alliance critic» Police to have more power, terrorist fundraisers to face jail terms
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Was up early to meet Lucas so we could pick up the easels for Mugshots. He had borrowed his mom’s car for the weekend. The easel pick up went smoothly. They are now located in the old Girl Guides building, no longer in the Morses Tea building. The ground floor is much easier to access.
It was a lower-than average turnout for Mugshots today. Maybe it was the weather, the impending Tropical Storm. Or maybe it was because no one had put up any posters. A few new folks came to help draw and paint. We made a bit of money, and those that came seemed to get great enjoyment from the event. Made for a long day, was feeling worn out by six. I painted a portrait of a girl who teaches Grade 3 and whose husband just left for the Persian Gulf. I don’t want to think of the war. The way the media is carrying on about it, it is like everyone has collective amnesia or something. Maybe war is only something distasteful for people when it is in the past. Maybe most people don’t mind it. I can’t believe that we are being told that this is a war against terrorism, and people believe it.
Biked home with Rebecca. The women’s collective was meeting at our house tonight, so I watched TV and worked on my computer drawing so as not to disturb them. Mohanad and I watched the Degrassi Reunion special. Quite a traumatizing event to kick-start a new series, what with Spike’s daughter nearly raped by a computer email stalker. quite eerie. Great to see Don McKeller on a CBC show… again. Also watched the Simpsons tonight. Started work on the New York map tracings, the project from our visit there in May. I still need to work through some technical problems.
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Monday, October 15, 2001 11:50 PM
Subject: Chretien plays down chance of wider war, but won’t rule out new front» Feds introduce tough anti-terrorism bill, critics worry about civil rights» Gov. Gen. reinforces Canada’s peacekeeping role in speech to sailors
Woke up sluggish this morning. Karina woke me up as she came to bed at five-thirty. She had been up all night drafting a women’s collective manifesto. I really needed a coffee first thing after getting up before I could do anything. It was really, really windy this morning. Mohanad had almost been blown off his bike. I decided to take the bus to work. Winnie and Dan were there already, preparing to sand the floor. Worked on some advance PR, made some Outspoken posters and then organized my tools and started building the new shelves in Andréa’s studio for Khyber Kids. Winnie had rented a car today so she could run errands, like picking up and returning the floor sander, and helped return the easels to the Con Ed room. Met with Briony just before going to the openings at the Anna, we talked about the board’s uncertainty with the MARC proposal to move into the Turret. Ran into Karina briefly at the openings, she was really tense and stressed about the Women’s Collective presentation she was to make at the SUNSCAD meeting tonight. All the shows were really good this week; a group photo show in Gallery 1, Susan MacEachern’s Backyard Community in Gallery 2, and Ray’s Light Creep in 3. The turning light bulbs in Rays installation cast moving shadows on the walls of enlarged twigs; it is very clever and slick and hypnotic. Walked back to the Khyber and had a board development meeting with Sarah and Briony. Stayed for a while afterwards waiting for Karina. When she arrived she said that they had talked about the Women’s Collective for an hour. There was some anger and misunderstanding, defensiveness and from the sounds of it, some shifty behavior going on regarding minutes and the way decisions are being made at SUNSCAD, but Karina seemed to feel that there was consensus amongst the board that they supported the collective. She was almost giddy after having such a tense day, and not sleeping or eating. We caught a bus home, I made some supper and Karina took a bath. Going to go clean the kitchen now.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Wednesday, October 17, 2001 12:35 AM
Subject: Former Alta. MP won’t serve jail time for indecent assault of girl» Ontario Premier Mike ‘Chainsaw’ Harris to resign after six years in office» Ottawa readies new spending to combat bioterrorism, boost intelligence
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Had a really bizarre dream last night. I was with a group of people in a war-torn country somewhere. Probably Afghanistan. We were ambushed in broad daylight, shot and presumed dead. Someone was walking up to all the bodies and putting a knife in them to make sure they were dead. Only it was slight of hand; no-one actually died. But he was carving out the whites of everyone’s eyeballs; just the whites. Scraping them out like one would a cantaloupe. He did it to me too. I didn’t feel a thing, of course, because it was only a dream. But judging from the reactions of people I was later talking to in the dream, it looked really weird.
Lousy day at work. The KDMC account is a lot lower than I think it should be. I talked to someone on the phone from the bank about it, and she was really condescending to me. I think it is a form of bank double-talk. Either I am completely horrid at maths, and can’t wrap my head around a simple equation, or the bank is actually canceling out a deposit I made from one account to another. It put me in a bad mood for the rest of the day.
Karina is still looking for her wallet. She is certain that she had it at home late Saturday night, as she ordered a book online using her credit card, and didn’t go out all day Sunday, but now her wallet is gone. She has looked everywhere. Of course, there are lots of places it could hide. Maybe the cats are feeling neglected and hid it.
Biked home, made supper, some spaghetti. Rebecca and I printed some images from the computer to some iron-on paper she bought. Unfortunately our printer is out of ink. All our images came out pink. I ironed one of Rebecca’s monkeys on the rear of a pair of Karina’s underwear. I hope she likes it. Smoked a joint with Mohanad. Watched Jacob Two-Two Meets the Hooded Fang. It was awful. I can’t even imagine a six-year old liking it. Kids are way too sophisticated these days. Slimers and Slime balls? Give me a break.
Karina is printing late tonight. I’ve got to get to bed now, it is already late. A long day planned for tomorrow. Am still listening to the new Cake CD. Can’t get enough cake.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Wednesday, October 17, 2001 11:24 PM
Subject: Martin announces Canada will host global meetings next month» Private sector economists warn Martin he has “limited room to maneuver”» Prime minister bids navy well as ships sail in anti-terrorist campaign
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Slept fitfully last night. Woke up a few times, once just as it began to rain. It came out of nowhere; one second it was calm and quiet, then suddenly bang! Rain hitting the window really hard.
The alarm didn’t go off this morning but we still managed to get up on time. Had coffee fro breakfast. Helped Karina scour the apartment for her wallet to no avail. We debated going to breakfast somewhere but we ran out of time. Time flies when listening to the radio. We eventually caught a bus downtown at eleven-thirty.
Was in a bad mood at work today. Did manage to get some things straightened out with the bank and the KDMC account. I’m not as much of an idiot as I had feared yesterday. The account I had closed last month was still active, so I transferred the funds into the new account. That was a big relief, there are still some outstanding cheques on the new account. Was pleased to learn that we have a decent overdraft on the account. That may help us when things get lean this winter.
Took a look at Goody’s show at the Argyle today. Some really nice video stills. Haunting, slightly disturbing imagery of stuffed toys, dogs, cats and herself. Nice frames.
Had supper with Karina at the Med. She had a clubhouse and I had the Falafel plate. Best falafel I have had there to date. The fries were exceptionally good tonight too.
The Outspoken lecture went really well tonight. The discussion was lively, well-paced, informative and quite interesting. There was a lot of audience participation. I just wasn’t in the mood for people tonight, however. It is starting to feel like a huge effort to be friendly and cheerful.
On the bus home I was surprised when, at a stop, a couple girls suddenly darted off the bus while in mid-conversation to chase down a girl who had just gotten off. The last I saw of them the girl who ran out was yelling in the face of the girl she had followed. It made my stomach turn. Bad mood continues.
Karina found out a little more info on her wallet today. Her credit card was used by someone to purchase gasoline on Sunday morning, so it looks like it was stolen from the house Saturday night or early Sunday morning. It is spooky to think that someone may be casing our house and just coming in to take stuff. No privacy anymore.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Friday, October 19, 2001 12:06 AM
Subject: Director says CSIS runs spy operations overseas, despite public misperception» Health Minister Rock commits almost $12 million to fight bio-terrorism» HMCS Vancouver battle ready, skipper says as ship departs for Mid-East
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Another sluggish morning. Karina and I ate breakfast at Mary’s Place then caught a bus downtown. Picked up a camera and some lighting gear for David to document Adel’s paintings in the Club. It was close to noon by the time I got to work. Bad mood most of the day. David never showed. When I called him Claire said that he was helping with the installation at the Mount. Can’t say I blame him, the pay is probably twice as good, but he could have called first. Robbie came by and we talked a bit about the talk last night and about art and that sort of cheered me up a bit, but we also talked about how wasteful and harmful to the environment computer components and everything digital really is. He is making a Gong Show poster for us. Still haven’t found a gong, or a panel of judges, or any performers. Should be a great show. Talked to Liz for a bit about the ID Collective. She seemed a bit disillusioned. She is moving back to Montréal tomorrow. Actually went home early to eat supper and go grocery shopping with Karina. Tried to update my email. We each got busy puttering around the house and next thing I know it is ten o’clock and neither of us feel like grocery shopping. It is starting to get really cold out. Bummer. Worked on the page I am doing for the next issue of MIX magazine. I have layered six months of email on top of one another, it looks quite neat when printed out. Am meeting Ray early tomorrow morning to get some materials from Pierceys. Mohanad has offered to help with the DJ table next week. Karina is going to help me photograph Adel’s paintings tomorrow morning. That is, if she isn’t mad at me for being in a perpetual bad mood.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Saturday, October 20, 2001 12:57 AM
Subject: Secretive federal spy agencies get $47 million for new technology» Lawyer links 3 men nabbed on Alta immigration charges to Sept. 11 attacks» B.C. premier lashes judge’s decision to release alleged terrorism supporter
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Had a full day. Met Ray at Pierceys. He helped me deliver a large sheet of MDF for the DJ table to the Khyber. We worked on the Frame Gallery and installed the Plexiglas. I painted clouds on the blue wrapping before we put it up. No one has booked the space next.
Moved plywood down from Andréa’s studio and brought up another shelf for her to use. There is very little enrollment in her Khyber Kids classes, but we are going ahead with them anyway.
Robbie came by with a Gong Show poster. It looks awesome. Aaron came by and picked some up to distribute. We still need to find talent. And panelists. And a gong.
Lots of cheques came in the mail today. Hooray. The building material reimbursement from the city, the claim cheque from Purolator for Brandon, and the remaining NSAC money for the KDMC.
Winnie painted a second coat on the floor in the Ballroom today. The building really smelled of paint.
I left work early to go to the CAR/FAC presentations, but was late. Ran into Karina unexpectedly at the Anna Leonowens and we decided to go for an early supper along the waterfront, something new for us. Good to get out of habit and routine once in a while.
I went back to NSCAD and sat in on the last bit of CAR/FAC presentations. Went to the reception at VANS, then back to NSCAD for the Ellen Lupton talk for the Lecture Series. She spoke of skin, both as form and fun ction, in contemporary design. It had its moments, but it was actually fairly dull. Only skin-deep.
Went to the opening at eyelevelgallery afterwards. Risa Horowitz presenting over 1500 contact photos of herself on index cards with a heavy dose of cataloging. What she has done with her website is more or less what I have wanted to do with my letters and drawings to you.
Walked home in a roundabout way putting Gong Show posters up. Karina and I looked through Risa’s website when I got home. Karina seemed mostly interested in the lighting.
Am going to bed soon. Have to get up early to help Andréa with Khyber Kids in the morning. There are still supplies that need to be purchased.
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Sunday, October 21, 2001 3:56 PM
Subject: Saskatchewan Liberals to pick new leader, but he may not have followers» Funding cuts leave Ont. school libraries cash-strapped, ill-equipped: experts» Ontario Liberal strategy needs fine-tuning now that Harris has gone: experts
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Woke up early yesterday to help Andréa set up for Khyber Kids. Biked downtown with Andrew and Mohanad, who were on their way to the Market. Andréa had already set up her studio last night with Ray. There are only four kids enrolled. Spent the day at work. Helped Tonia and Robert bring in her dollhouses. Some students from NSCAD were installing some collage self-portraits along the stairs. Biked home for supper. We are taking over Rebecca’s vegetable delivery service, since she is gone for a month on her cross-Canada train trip with Andrew. Karina and I went grocery shopping last night as well. Picked up a couple movies. Watched “Almost Famous”. Finished layering all the letters I have sent to you so far. Right now I am about to change the orientation of all the letters on the page. Today we slept in really, really late. We are in the process of washing our laundry. Went to Juliens for coffee, tea and fresh bread. We are going to Sarah and Craig’s housewarming party tonight.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Monday, October 22, 2001 9:19 AM
Subject: Saskatchewan Liberals to pick new leader, but he may not have followers» Search reduced for missing N.S. fisherman credited with saving crew» Alliance MP rails against system that allowed sex offender to get passport
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Hung around the house late yesterday afternoon before going to Craig and Sarah’s housewarming party. Worked on the compressed, accumulated emails page; I gave a copy to Craig and Sarah as a housewarming gift. Karina, Mohanad and Courtney were watching a movie before we left; If Lucy Fell. I watched parts of it with them; some of it was really funny. A bit sappy, but some funny moments, some very real-feeling moments, some good dialogue. I was in a bit of a sappy mood myself, but I think that was due to repeated listens of the Moulin Rouge soundtrack, which Karina has just purchased.
We walked to Sarah and Craig’s. A small gathering, it is amazing the transformation their apartment has undergone. Sanded all the floors and vanished them, painted all the walls. We played Guestures most of the night. It was an interesting mixture of smokers and non-smokers, which I think made for an interesting dynamic. It was a fun evening, though on the way home I confessed to Karina that I am still feeling detached from people, that I don’t really feel connected like I used to. I think I just need to get over myself and try harder.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Tuesday, October 23, 2001 9:06 AM
Subject: Canada a “beacon of light” in troubled, post-Sept.11 world: Gov.-Gen.» Edmonton police officer faces criminal charges in crash that killed child» Rock under fire over patent infringement of generic anthrax antibiotic
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Spent yesterday finishing up the prep for the openings. The media centre wasn’t open but that doesn’t seem to stop people from coming up and trying to use it. Scanned and tried to send emails of pictures taken by a couple German tourists, but they couldn’t open the attachments. Lucas came in to teach Khyber Kids, they were starting Flash today.
The openings went smoothly yesterday. Tonia’s installation was the easiest at the Khyber for as long as I can remember. Her show looks really good. Sheilah’s installation in the Closet is well-considered and well-executed as well. The food was amazing. Robert and Winnie worked on it, providing the best spread we’ve ever had. What a treat.
Hung out in the Club for a little bit after the openings, then walked home with Sarah and Spencer. We have been trying to get more people involved with the Gong Show, scheduled for tonight. I was supposed to go to a meeting of Heritage Managers this morning, but have far too much work to do. Have to get some prizes for the Gong show, an MC and a Gong. And figure out what sort of performance to do.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Wednesday, October 24, 2001 7:52 AM
Subject: Health minister accuses Bayer of playing games over anthrax drug» Keeping border open to trade the challenge as security tightens, says Manley» Ottawa to raise ownership limits to trigger investment in Air Canada
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Spent most of yesterday looking for a gong for the gong show. Had a few good leads, including one that the Lexx set had just auctioned off, and one bought from the CBC last year, but eventually rented one from Atlantic Music Supply. I called Jamie out of the blue, lucky he has a cell phone, I caught him shopping and he drove down Barrington to get it for me.
Only managed to get one other gift certificate for a prize, from the Med. Spencer had gotten one from Venus Envy the other day. I did pick up a bunch of neat prizes from the dollar store. While I was in the mall I saw a really crude display of a bad computer printout with pictures of the Canadian and US flags intertwined over a candle. It made me feel icky.
I thought I had broken the photocopier today. The low toner light has been flashing on and off for the past couple weeks, and I had thought I was being smart by taking the cartridge out and shaking it and continuing to print with it. We must have gotten an extra four hundred copies or so with the low toner light on. It finally ran completely dry in the middle of a poster run from Craig, but when the new cartridge was put in nothing would print. The paper ran through, but no image. I thought I had seized the engine or something. Luckily turning the machine off and on again seemed to work. Phew.
For the first couple hours the Club was really quiet, and when Spencer arrived to help decorate we were both freaking out, thinking that no one would show up. But it was amazing how it all worked out in the end. Lots of people came, and lots of performers came too. Bruce had called me this afternoon and backed out of being a judge, but Sally did and I asked Evan and Sarah, who had just come back from their show in Florida, and they did it. Dan agreed to host and had even done some research on the show. The gong looked great, and everyone in the Club seemed really involved in the event. I don’t know if it made much money, but I am thankful that it was such a fun event.
I am meeting David this morning to document Adel’s paintings that are in the Club and the basement. Have to get the gong back and clean up a bit from last night. And still need to find a cleaner for the building; Craig’s last day was Monday.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Friday, October 26, 2001 11:50 PM
Subject: Martin likely to warn provincial counterparts that budget cupboard is bare» Executive jet flying to Washington, D.C., diverted to Man. over hijack scare» Stratford, Ont. jury acquits mother in abduction of eight-year-old triplets
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Had a strange night. Karina was up late quite upset because she has just learned her father has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. She doesn’t know how to deal with it. Her parents are taking advantage of the “low consumer confidence” and have booked a flight for her to come visit them on the island for Christmas. I’m not sure if I’ll be able to afford to go, even with the seat sales and discounted rates it is still almost a thousand dollars.
Finally got the disk and hardcopy of the MIX page off in the mail today. Learned that Canada Post owns Purolator; what irony. I had sworn I would never use Purolator again after the way they smashed Brandon’s sculptures, but Canada Post couldn’t guarantee next day delivery, even though they use Purolator planes. Not that Purolator’s word is worth much to me.
Mathew came by after work and I took the opportunity to vent some of my frustration with him. After all, he knows what it is like. Karina came by and we walked home because she wanted to stop at Staples and get some computer paper. She is still in a bit of a weird mood, very emotional. I think she is worried her dad is going to up and die, and she isn’t ready for it.
There is a Halloween Dance at NSCAD toight but we aren’t going. We made supper and then I had a nap on the couch. Christine called, she and Trevor are going to Saint John tomorrow. I had hoped to tag along but have already booked myself into things to do at work tomorrow. I have to give this workaholism a break sometime.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Monday, October 29, 2001 11:38 PM
Subject: Bittersweet goodbyes as Canadian warship sails for Arabian Gulf» Consular officials in Italy on their way to visit Canadian found in container» Industry minister acknowledges terror attacks could stall innovation agenda
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Had a crazy weekend. Saturday night I biked to Canadian Tire after work to buy a bag of cement to patch the growing cracks in the floor in the KDMC. I ended up ripping up half the floor. Like I have time to undertake another renovation project like this.
Stayed for the Buck 65 CD launch show at the Club later on that night. I have a new respect for rappers; Rich is quite good. A very good show.
Stopped by Spencer’s house on the way home; Tashia had reminded me that he was having a party tonight. Of course, everyone was in costume. I would have liked to dress up. Spent hours dancing. It was a perfect night for a party; having the clocks go back an hour is a great way to keep it going. Having a dance floor full of drunk and sweaty nscad students is another way. Eleanor had rigged up a closed circuit security camera which monitored the dancing going on in the living room to the stereo in the bedroom. Made a few trips to the bedroom to try to change the music when the tempo dropped. Danced mostly with Sara; we haven’t danced together in a couple years.
Karina and Courtney were still up and about when I got home. Had just enough energy left to make my drawing, then went to bed.
Krishna called early, early Sunday morning. It was good to talk to him. His birthday is Monday. He sounds like he is mellowing slightly with age, but only ever-so-slightly. Mohanad and I went to work and finished ripping the floor up in the media centre. It took less time than I had thought it would. We stopped for a bite to eat at C’est ci Bon. It was packed, mostly due to the fact that nothing else is open downtown on Sundays.
Stopped at Darrell’s on the way home and got stoned in his backyard. He has recently moved and has a large backyard. It was nice to sit with the fading afternoon sun shining brightly in my eyes, even though the air was cool. Nice to feel relaxed.
I thought that there was going to be a 2-hour Simpsons Halloween special on TV Sunday night, but there wasn’t. Made supper for Karina; she was at the gallery installing her work. Cleaned the kitchen. Read a bit before going to bed.
Had a bit of hectic day today. Even though the media centre is technically closed on Mondays people must sense that I am there and come up anyway. Finished pulling up the last bits of flooring. The hardwood beneath will look good once sanded lightly and topcoated. Sarah came in to discuss the CC grant. People were in and out all day. Picked up some flowers for Karina’s opening, the galleries were packed tonight. Would have been nice to stay and talk to people, I think all the board members were around, but I had to run out to teach oil painting class. Only eight students, and I wasn’t in good form; my demos sucked, and lacked any real direction or point. They seemed content to just paint.
Have been listening to the Moulin Rouge soundtrack an awful lot. Trying to brainwash some sort of romantic sentimentality into my head. Karina and her mom are in the process of booking a ticket for me to go to the Queen Charlottes for the Holidays. I am wary; I only work a couple weeks in December, and those two weeks won’t pay for my plane ticket and rent and food and everything else, like Xmas presents, which I would like to make for people anyway but that would require time, and who has any of that to spare? My first Con Ed class is tomorrow night, so that will be a bit more money but another drain on the time.
Sarah told me today that my old friend Ed has been committed. I must find out more about this, but he rarely responded to my emails before. I don’t know how I’ll get ahold of him if he is hospitalized.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2001 8:53 AM
Subject: Canadian intelligence contributed to U.S. terrorist alert, says MacAulay» Ghosts said to haunt houses and other buildings across Canada» Tobin bristles at Opposition jabs over his leadership rivalry with Martin
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Had a long, full day yesterday. The office was busy and it took me a couple hours of attempting to leave early before I could actually get away. I left early to prepare for my first night teaching the Con Ed mixed media class. Needed to pick up a slide projector and choose slides from the slide library at NSCAD. Picked up some materials from the bookstore. Met Karina at the Pita Pit and we ate a rushed supper together. My class went OK, I need to introduce more methods and techniques into the class. I showed them some different gel medium transfers, but am going to have to bone up on some other mixed media techniques myself to keep the class interesting. The students are all women, which seems a nit odd. Karina met me after class, we looked at some of her recent photography and contact prints, then it was back to the Khyber; Karina needed to use the slide scanner. I scraped some areas of the floor in the KDMC. It was late when we got home. Have another full day today; have actually been emailing people for the past hour.
Tim sent me an email yesterday further describing what he knows of Ed’s hospitalization, which is very little, I am going to try to call him tonight. It really disturbs me.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Wednesday, October 31, 2001 11:29 PM
Subject: Chretien, MacAulay defend disclosure of potential terrorist threat» Dhaliwal won’t back down from concerns over terror bill despite PM’s warning» New U.S. lumber duty triggers anger in Canada, deepens industry’s problems
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Woke up early this morning and fired off a round of emails. It added to the feeling that I managed to accomplish a few things at work today, mostly paperwork, some reports, budgets, a new list of things to do, the usual. Met with Sandra regarding her proposal for a show in the Closet. Managed to leave work at a normal time as well, and niked home to make supper.
Continuing with the household tradition, I was a Grinch this Halloween. There were no treats in the house when I arrived home and I had no cash on me to buy some. So I kept all the lights at the front of the house off and made supper in the kitchen, ignoring the doorbell and the occasional “hello’s” that wafted through the mail slot. I guess in a way it is still participating; but instead of the treat I am asking for a trick. No TP or egg yolk yet, however.
Lay down for a power nap after supper but it turned into a long one. Had planned to go to the studio and start a painting for the members show. Only managed to prime it, the primer stayed wet for too long. I biked to Video Difference to return movies and the primer was still wet when I returned, so I just came home.
Am looking at my calendar for November and am feeling very overwhelmed. Tired, worn out, overwhelmed and sick of the stupid war, the inane rhetoric, the waste. It is all hard on my head. I’m going back to bed. Have a Happy… no, have a Scary Halloween. It is supposed to be scary, isn’t it?
-Chris
DEAR PM 