From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Sunday, September 2, 2001 1:26 AM
Subject: Canadian school boards beating bushes to find teachers to replace retirees» More lobster traps seized by DFO in waters off Burnt Church, N.B.» P.E.I. bid to license Canada’s first online gaming site lands in courtroom
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Dragged ourselves out of bed early this morning to debate whether it was worth it to set up for a yard sale, as the forecast called for rain. It wasn’t raining, though, just foggy, and all our stuff had been piling up in the hall for the past two weeks, so we went ahead with it. It never did rain, but it wasn’t terribly busy, either. We didn’t have a lot of big-ticket items, so we ended the yard sale around noon, having made about twenty bucks each.
Went to Pierceys to pick up some more primer and the last bit of molding I needed for the new shelves. Karina and I had breakfast at Marys and then caught a bus downtown. She went to return some books at NSCAD and I puttered around the office. Karina had some luck selling a few more books on her way back to the Khyber. We went across the street to the Med to split a milkshake before taking in one of the Fringe Festival shows. We went to Chalk Circle Trial, directed by Jacob, who had helped at the Khyber last week. It is mostly chunks of dialogue ripped off from Brecht and Kafka, neither whom I have read extensively, though I am familiar enough with the chalk circle parable. I liked the interrogation of Brecht by the House Un-American Activities Committee. The two actors did a bang-up job, in my opinion. I think we went to high school with one of them, Simon. Karina didn’t like it; she said it was too preachy.
Went back to the Khyber for a little bit but couldn’t finish the work I wanted to as I was missing an image file which was on my computer at home. We took a bus home and I made some supper, then crashed for a little bit. My energy levels have been fluctuating irregularly as of late.
Worked on Norma’s Closet Gallery invitation and in between watched most of a really bizarre movie that Rebecca had rented, The Ringmaster, starring Jerry Springer.
Have to get up early to meet Randy at the Khyber and get the tabletops cut to size and the KDMC computers and furniture moved so the rest of the floor can be painted.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Monday, September 3, 2001 1:23 AM
Subject: Family and friends mark tragedy of Swissair Flight 111 with quiet service» Chretien unlikely to embarrass himself in golf game with Tiger Woods» One in five Canadians say they’ve been victims of road rage
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Woke up early, but not too early. Biked to the Khyber for 10am. Met Randy and we moved furniture and built small bases for the table legs so the large table for the top would fit. Put a second coat of paint on the new wall. Made plans to come back for eleven in the evening. Went home and after helping Karina with a couple loads of laundry, we folded newsletters. Had plans with Rebecca and Andrew to partake in some hashish and play Trivial Pursuit. Watched an episode of the Simpsons and Malcom in the Middle in the middle of the game. Rebecca and Andrew won. I biked back downtown just past eleven, met Randy and we painted the tabletop and the rest of the floor. The paint fumes were really bad. Made a PDF of the KDMC invitation. Biked home, Had a shower and am now about to draw you a short drawing, then go to bed.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Monday, September 3, 2001 11:16 PM
Subject: » Tanker implicated in deadly collision with fishing boat leaves Nfld.» Montreal transit authority defends handling of tear-gas evacuation» Six more lobster traps seized by DFO in waters off Burnt Church, N.B.
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Slept in a bit this morning. Had stuff to do at work but couldn’t summon the energy to go right away. It is Labour Day today, after all. Had breakfast and lounged around the house for a bit. Karina and I spent some time together, then decided to walk downtown. We stopped for milkshakes along the way. Stopped by Randy’s new place to see if he had a set of keys for the studio Rebecca and I are going to share, but he wasn’t home. When we got to the Khyber Karina helped update the membership. We argued over the fine points of how to reward volunteer efforts in terms of membership durations. Rebecca came by and we all went to the Fringe performance God is Sitting on my Head. I liked it, but again Karina didn’t. We walked home. We bought supper in convenient throw-away styrofoam and tinfoil from Korça Pizza. Andrew came over. We watched Made in Canada. That Rick Mercer is a funny guy. Karina has been checking out the prices of slide projectors on eBay. I have invitations to send out and packing and note-preparations and gifts for my hosts to straighten away before tomorrow. And lots of envelopes to stuff tomorrow as well. Am not liking my life very much lately. What am I doing with it?
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Wednesday, September 5, 2001 12:20 AM
Subject: » Harris has ‘lied’ about Ipperwash shooting, Liberal opposition critic says» Alliance caucus begins two days of meetings with rebel 12 at top of agenda» Mi’kmaq warriors, rangers vow to protect defiant N.B. native fishermen
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Biked to work early this morning so I could get Norma’s invitations printed at Kinko’s. Went to get a coffee while waiting and Ran into Andrew at Steverenos, so we sat and talked for awhile. Picked up the invites and worked on the mailout all day long. Dropped a pile of newsletters off to NSCAD for the new students orientation session. Later in the day Randy helped out with the envelope stuffing, and Lucas and Karina as well, and we got it all done by five o’clock. It is quite the undertaking sometimes. This month the weight of the mailout pushed the cost up to 75 cents. Randy had spent most of the day re-arranging the KDMC and setting the computers back up. He gave me the keys to my new studio at the Bloomfield Centre, which I gave to Rebecca when she stopped by. She had borrowed her mom’s car today to move a bunch of her studio things. Saw Elizabeth from Saint John today. She said that she would drop posters off for the lecture series she organized for St. Max. I am doing a lecture there in February. I stayed late at work trying to wrap up loose ends, as Randy will be in charge of the office while I’m away. Karina helped sort the bulletin board. She is really good at it. Biked home and dropped keys off to Briony, whom I added to the Alliance Security list as a contact name. It started to rain so I biked home really fast. Karina had taken the bus. When I got home Rebecca and Mohanad were watching the movie Clue. Mohanad just came today frtom Montréal. He is living with us now. I am trying to gather together the last few things I need to take with me to Ottawa. Rebecca is lending me a suitcase. It actually belongs to Sarah’s mom. She has had it for six months now. I have to be at the airport by 6am tomorrow. This means catching the airbus at 5:20 in the morning at the Sheraton. The clerk at Travelcuts this afternoon told me I should be at the airport 3 hours before my flight, because it is Canada 3000. I laughed and laughed and laughed. Can you imagine? OK, I’m off to finish some stuff and get a few hours shuteye. Maybe I’ll see you in Ottawa? About the only time I have free is tomorrow afternoon. I may go to the National and check out the Klimt show.
-Chris
From: frottage@canada.com
To: <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Cc: <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
Date: Thursday, September 6, 2001 1:31 AM
Subject: » Alliance gives rebels until high noon Monday to return or face expulsion
Dear Mr. Chretien,
Woke up around 4am this morning to get ready for my flight. Took a cab to the Sheraton. Waited a bit for the airbus shuttle. When I arrived at the Canada 3000 departure desk they told me that my flight had been cancelled. I was flabbergasted. They said they would call my name. Eventually they called everyone, and gave each of us a new departure time with a Air Canada. Mine was at 2pm. I got in line right away and the desk clerk booked me both the 2pm and an earlier standby flight. I ended up getting on the standby flight. Dozed throughout the flight. Ate something described as quiche. Arrived in Ottawa and the airport looked identical to Halifax. Met David Armstrong who is travelling up North. He was on my flight. He was worried about his dog, whose name I can’t remember. Aside from some frantic barking he seemed fine, and David took him outside to do his duty. I caught a public transit bus downtown. As the bus gradually filled up a woman sitting behind me asked me how much I had paid to have a seat all to myself. I said the same as everyone else, and showed her that I had two large bags with me. But I put them on my lap and asked if anyone wanted to sit down. I had been engrossed in the Ottawa Sun and hadn’t realized how full the bus had become. Got off on Metcalfe and walked to Peter and Jen’s. Peter was at work but Jen was home and we had coffee and talked. I left before noon so she could get some writing done. I walked through the Market, bought some sunglasses and a disposable camera and then went to SAW. Met Laura and she introduced me to Marcus and some of the performers for the week and her friend who works upstairs at the Ottawa Art Gallery and we went for lunch. Talked about artist-run culture and the difficulties of running and art bar. I continued on to the National Gallery. Some great new works in the contemporary section. Didn’t bother going to see the Klimt show. Had a nap in the park across the street from the gallery. Felt lonely as the last time I had been through that park I was with Karina. Started thinking about how important it is to share experiences with her, how much I wanted to share everything with her. Woke up and walked by Parliament. There was a loud event happening. Upon further inspection it proved to be an Ottawa University Frosh event. They were attempting to make the World’s Largest Group Hug. I got sucked in. Took some pictures. Ate some free Pringles but declined the free Subway sandwich. It had ham in it. After the hug had been successful went for a quick coffee on Bank Street and then walked back to SAW for dinner. Spoke with people showing up for the meet and greet. It is interesting finally meeting people face to face whose names are familiar from gallery correspondence, but whom I had never met. Todd Janes from Latitude 53 is quite the character. We had supper, it was Sri Lankan. Spoke a lot with a glass designer from Ottawa named Suzanne, and Adrian, who has shown at the Khyber in the past. Began to feel anxious that it was getting late and that I was neglecting Peter and Jen so I left early. It was actually only after 10pm when I arrived back at their place. Charles was there. We all smoked up and had a great conversation about Doug, the old city, the past few years, artist-run centres, studios and painting. Eventually it was time for bed. Charles left. I am without drawing software tonight so I forego my drawing to you until next time.
-Chris
__________________________________________________________
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From: frottage@canada.com
To: <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Cc: <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
Date: Friday, September 7, 2001 2:21 AM
Subject: » $30-million class-action suit filed hours after Air Transat fined $250,000
Dear Mr. Chretien,
Woke up in the middle of a weird dream about someone painting a floor in the Khyber and dripping paint on floors of a different colour. Must be residue of the frantic renovations from the past few weeks. Woke up and had a shower and a cup of coffee, then walked to SAW. There was breakfast there, bagels and apple crisp and coffee and orange slices. The meeting started off around issues of networking but quickly became mired in a discussion of whether or not the group should become a more formalized group. We went around in a few circles before the end of the day. A few people gave brief presentations which were casual enough to make me want to do one as well. I may aim for tomorrow or Saturday. There were performances scheduled to happen in the gallery in the evening, so I went back to Peter and Jen’s to hang out for a bit before going back. Instant Coffee had set up a Disco Camper, a tiny camping trailer complete with disco ball, videos and Fisher Price record players. Robin had set up the rest of his Brand Removal Service centre, which was very slick and professional looking. He would cover or remove brand names from any article of clothing. I was going to have him alter the tag on my jeans but I didn’t get around to it. I ran into Adad, who had just arrived from Montreal. He will be at the meetings tomorrow. Maybe I’ll wear my HFP shirt. Donna was wearing one today. Talked to a few people from the conference and the crowds had thinned out by town, so I walked back to Jen and Peter’s. They were playing Scrabble when I arrived. Watched them finish the game and we looked through some art books and picked out paintings that they could go to see when they visit London in a few weeks. Karina sent me an email that Jeremiah’s brother had just had a baby and that I couldn’t stay with him the next couple nights. I haven’t called him yet but will try to make time tomorrow to do so. The trouble is that I think he works days, so may not be home, and it is too late to call now. We’ll get it sorted out.
-Chris
__________________________________________________________
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From: frottage@canada.com
To: <pm@canada.com>, <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Cc: <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
Date: Saturday, September 8, 2001 4:21 AM
Subject: » RCMP commissioner accepts blame for trouble at 1997 APEC meeting
Dear Mr. Chretien,
It was harder to wake up early this morning, but I managed. Had a shower and then Jen and Peter left, and left me with fruit salad and coffee. I was running late so couldn’t really stay long to enjoy. Ran into Donna on Elgin on my way to the conference. The topics this morning were issues in curation and performance and technology. The performance and technology was the more interesting topic. Had another nice lunch. Talked with Ada off and on. Adrian gave a presentation on the Le Breton real-estate project. Other gallery directors and co-ordinators gave presentations. The sound wasn’t working with the video projector. The presentations ran until about six o’clock. When everything had finished I had Robyn at his “Brand Removal Service” remove the label from my pants and my bookbag. He is in today’s newspaper.
Walked to Jen and Peter’s. Jen was home, working on one of her stories. I read the paper, then eventually Peter came home. He had cycled. Jen went to the nearby Sri Lankan place for takeout. The catering from the conference has been from there all week. My threshold for spicy foods has been rising.
Haven’t yet heard from Jeremiah. Left another few messages on his machine. Smoked some hash with Peter and then walked to Barrymores. Ran into Ellen along the way. It is a small world. She had run into Mike the night before. We will try to get together tomorrow at lunch.
The fashion show at Barrymores was a lot of fun. The costumes and sometimes accompanying performances were very slick and polished. There was that edgy, rawness missing that seems to cover the Halifax wearable art shows. Afterwards, spent the rest of the evening dancing. A good way to cut loose the inevitable tension that builds up in ones body.
Another early start tomorrow. I think I will try to give a basic presentation about the Khyber tomorrow as well.
-Chris
__________________________________________________________
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From: frottage@canada.com
To: <pm@pm.gc.ca>, <pm@pm.gc.ca>, <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Cc: <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
Date: Sunday, September 9, 2001 2:37 PM
Subject: » Tobin leadership campaign on track despite his denial there’s a race
Dear Mr. Chretien,
You won’t believe this, but this is the third attempt to write you this letter today. I keep hitting some stupid key on the keyboard which deletes the letter. It is driving me nuts. I’ve been on this computer in a small computer store in Downtown Montreal for hours. It happened when I wrote a lengthy letter to Karina earlier. This email thing is definitely a double edged sword. The instantaneous communication is great, but the technological snarl-ups are incredibly annoying.
So now I don’t even want to write the letter anymore. Point form only:
Yesterday the conference ended. People got a tad bit testier with one another over some of the sticking points of organization, and the presentations went on a tad too long. I tried to keep my Khyber presentation brief. Which was easy because once I was speaking I was forgetting what I wanted to say anyway. Even with the help of notes.
Spoke with Jeremiah’s roommates. He went camping for the weekend. Some emergency. It really bummed me out. Though he does take his camping seriously, so I can understand.
Went to performances at Gallery 101. Afterwards the delegates wanted to go out somewhere cheesy for the last hurrah. Went to Lockmaster on Bank. The quintessential seedy dive. Despite the recent smoking ban smoke filled the air. Waitstaff put small tumblers containing a bit of water as surrogate ashtrays. A band was playing called “three guys and a drummer”. I danced like a fool with a girl who works at 101, Florence. We made a mockery of every dance form both known and invented.
Couldn’t email when I arrived back at Jen and Peter’s because his brother Jamie was in the guest room. They had set up a nifty cot for me in the living room.
In the morning Jen woke me up and drove me to the Trainstation. They were excellent hosts. I feel bad for not spending more time with them, and also overstaying my visit at the same time. They had dinner guests over last night, so I didn’t want to intrude on them.
The train is nice. Nice view. Read from the Pluralities 1980 catalogue I bought at the National the other day for 99 cents. I bought it and a couple other catalogues for Karina.
I found a small place to check my email just around the corner from the Musee d’Art Contemporian. The Picasso Erotica show is one, which doesn’t interest me in the least. But this blasted email is driving me nuts. I have written five letters just to send 2. Karina wrote me a very upsetting email. Our time apart is leading her to paranoia and unfounded jealousy.
Called Robert when I arrived but got his answering machine. Need to go eat and will try to call him again.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Monday, September 10, 2001 10:11 PM
Subject: » Alliance paints rosy future as three rebel MPs return; critics not so sure» Tories and rebel Alliance MPs say they’ll join forces in Parliament» Report says NDP needs to return to being a radical political alternative
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Home at last! After that mangled letter I sent you yesterday afternoon, I met up with Robert and we walked up to the big drum circle. We had been discussing how strange the concept was of the mall underneath the Chapel, how if Jesus was around today he’d be scattering the merchants left right and centre. The walk up the hill was interesting; they have Cogswell Interchange problems like you wouldn’t believe. It was feeling like a bit like a pilgrimage of sorts, climbing this broad hill in the hot sun with the sounds of the drumming getting louder and louder. It was quite an amazing gathering of people, and we sat and talked about Life, the Universe and Everything. My head hurt, but that was also probably because I was so incredibly high. There is a potency to the pot in Montréal that one doesn’t seem to find elsewhere. Anyhow, Rob walked me back to the train station, I gave him a couple photographs of Karina’s, and then I was back on the train. For the next twenty hours. Luckily I slept a lot of it, and eventually read over some of the grant applications I need to work on imminently, and watched the countryside wisk by. There is something romantic and tactile, very sensory, about taking the train. The sounds and vibrations are in stark contrast to those experienced via air travel.
I arrived right on time, walked to the Med to meet Karina, but met her instead as I was about to drop my bag off at the Khyber. I had neglected to send her my itinerary yesterday, though I thought I had. I had written it in the first email to her, which had become lost. So it was lucky that we met. We had All-Day Breakfast at the Med, then went to the Anna for the openings. I borrowed Randy’s keys to go back to the office and lock up and arm the KDMC, as rent has been coming in and building up in the office. I don’t like having a lot of cash on hand there.
Sat in the Club for a little bit with Mohanad, Rebecca and Karina, but wanted to leave soon as was covered in two days worth of sticky travelling sweat. Karina and I took a bus home. Had a shower and have been catching up on email ever since. Am going to print some labels of all the days I have been writing email to you, to choose from which letters gets displayed in the NSCAD elevator. Art by lottery.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Wednesday, September 12, 2001 12:55 AM
Subject: » Chretien slams ‘cowardly’ terrorist attacks in U.S., says Canadians safe» Cdn airports, offices close; hospitals prepare for wounded from U.S. attacks» Korean passenger jet diverted to Whitehorse treated as hijacking says RCMP
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
What is to be done? What can I say? Karina called me at work with the news, but she didn’t know the extent of the damage. I had thought that maybe a small plane had hit, a one or two-seater. No big deal. It wasn’t until later in the morning, as the news was filtering through the building, that the magnitude started to grow, the realization started to set in that the world was changing. For the worse. Things are going to be very bad from now on. The bombings were horrific, but beautifully so. The language of terrorism has shouted loudly at the American people, most who are completely ignorant as to why they are hated so vehemently by so many others throughout the world. Hated enough to do what was done today. The scary thing is that the US will retaliate. They will escalate the violence, perpetuate the hatred. No good will come of this. The States will push for more military spending. For more investment in Security Forces and Surveillance. They will push for Missile Defence. And all of that is useless when people are willing to die for their causes, willing to turn their bodies into weapons of mass-destruction. Things have gone from bad to much, much worse. My only hope would be that Space Aliens orchestrated the attacks, that it be proved beyond a shadow of a doubt, and humankind in its entirety has to re-adjust for the massiveness of a new Universe-view. It is about the only thing that can save us; conventional religions have only proven to cause humans to fight each other. We’ll wreck the planet before we learn to live together in peace. It is awful. The President is talking like a Macho-Cowboy Madman. He appears on TV like a robot. He talks of Hunting and Punishment. Others talk of swift vengeance in the form of immediate deaths. We have learned nothing. We could have World War after World War and keep doing it, never learning, the stupid creatures that we are. I hope Andrea is OK. I hope Norma is OK. I hope Krishna’s Aunt and Colin’s Aunt are OK. I hope Grace is OK. No one has any idea how many are dead and hurt.
It will be hard to get back into the swing of work. There almost seems no point to work.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Thursday, September 13, 2001 1:20 AM
Subject: » Chretien pledges to battle ‘devil’ terrorism; cautious about military action» Passengers stranded in Canada after U.S. attacks to be flown home: Collenette» Canadians pour out hearts, blood and money to help U.S. terror victims
Dear Mr. Chrétien.
Slept through my alarm this morning, but somehow managed to wake up and prepare myself for work before Merle called. I actually ended up at work long before he arrived, as traffic was backed up everywhere due to all the extra people grounded from yesterdays events. Merle snapped the two outlets on the new wall in the office back in place with a bit of difficulty, due to the clumsy holes I had cut in the plywood.
Tried to get a lot accomplished at work today, and I think I managed to do so, but so much seems undone. Things are up in the air again with where the Khyber Kids classes will be instructed. Had a board meeting tonight and felt just whipped at the end of it. It was grueling. The daunting task of writing so many grant applications has me worried. The day-to-day operations has me worried. The fact that I haven’t been able to move into my studio yet has me worried.
Scott, one of the many photocopier salespeople that sculk about the downtown, came by again today. They just like to come by and pepper their speech with clichés and veiled sales pitches. Turned down some other organization phoning for money today. Am getting good at that.
Went grocery shopping at Sobeys tonight. Hooked up the new veggie box to the new back bike rack which Karina purchased last week. It does make cycling home with groceries much easier.
Stayed up late watching more footage of New York. The whole retaliation sentiment is sooo scary. Not enough energy or time spent on thinking why, and forgiveness, and trying to discover a way to break the cycle of violence. Only thinking in terms of war, and revenge. Don’t they know that revenge will not teach anyone a lesson, and that the deeper reasons for the actions must be investigated?
Ah, what do I know, sitting up here in my comfy Canadian abode. Yet just how comfy is anyone’s life going to be from this point in? How bad can things get now?
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Friday, September 14, 2001 3:36 AM
Subject: » Chretien hardens line on possible military action against terrorists» Canadians prepare to mark first national day of mourning since 1967 on Friday» Canadians put travel plans on hold as airlines sort out scheduling mess
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Managed to wake up without the alarm clock again this morning. Had some eggs and avacado on toast for breakfast. Spoke with Mohanad for a bit; he said that he would stop by the Khyber today. Biked to work. Brandon had been by already with pictures for the Purolator claim. I filled it out and faxed it off. Tried to catch up on other business. Faxed an update for the KDMC Grand Opening out to some local media.Tried to stay upbeat, energetic and busy. All the while feeling something profound and disturbing has shifted.
A lot of phone calls today. Much moreso than usual. Nice to hear people’s voices. Talked with someone from Industry Canada about Jane Purves speech. Spoke with Liz about the presentations and she mentions Nostradamus and his prophecy about the twin brothers collapsing. Unsettling.
Everything later in the afternoon took longer to do than necessary. Jamie came by to collect his Shop Vac and I vented some of my frustration with work and the Board and the world. Winnie was in all day with David, working on the stencils. The fumes were bad. David left early, leaving Winnie in the lurch. Jacob came by and helped out later in the evening.
Karina and I ate at Maki-Maki. Had Udon soup and salmon maki, Karina had beef teriaki but it tasted funny. Went back to work until delegates for the ARC/ARC started arriving. Hung out downstairs in the Club with Sarah and Ray, Andrew, Glynis and the two Andreas from Newfoundland. Our conversations were a bit disruptive for the audience of the Salon De Refusés, so we packed up and headed for the Shoe Shop. Talked with Pat and Glynis about the big scares of the past few decades. Everyone is scared now. But we all seem to hide it well, disguised in the clothes of everday routine. Get up. Go to work. Get things done. Apply for that grant. Pay that bill. Make some art. And somehow, amidst all that, to still think about the nature and meaning of life. It is a different world now essentially if we think, feel and empathize more. Isn’t it?
Karina came by and we went back to the Khyber. She needed to work on an invitation, I had to prepare for the panel and the presentations at ARC/ARC tomorrow. We stayed far too late. One-thirty. Sally was still in the Club, finishing up for the night. Brad still there. He had caused a bit of scene earlier in the evening when he wouldn’t pay the cover charge. He and Craig haven’t really been getting along. He is so hyper and erratic. He walked as far as the Marqee with Karina and I, and we continued home. We had all smoked a joint in the Grand Parade. I didn’t need it, though it did seem to wake me up a touch. Brad is a great storyteller, but I couldn’t handle it tonight.
When we got home the talk bug had nipped Karina and she talked and talked to me while I was writing this letter. I quite enjoyed it, though I had to ask her to leave the room so I could finish the letter. I honestly think we could have talked all night, or at least hours, and she is in such a good mood I shouldn’t take it for granted. Maybe she’s still awake; I think she is. Just a quick 2-minute drawing tonight and then it’s off to bed.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Saturday, September 15, 2001 1:09 AM
Subject: » Chretien hardens line on possible military action against terrorists» RCMP question man surrounding possible link to terrorist attacks» Government to outline response to terrorist attacks when Commons sits Monday
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
I didn’t sleep very well last night, and woke up periodically with paranoid delusions. At one point I thought that the chimney on my neighbour’s roof was a crouched figure that was spying on me.
Woke up before the alarm, but went back to sleep until it was scheduled to go off. Had a shower, made breakfast and a lunch. Karina had to be at school early so she took the bike. I caught a bus. Read a bit of the paper on the bus.
Took part in a panel discussion this morning at eyelevelgallery on funding realities. I was not very prepared. Sarah moderated. Andrea came in late, but in time to speak in turn. Karen from Gallery Connexion was on the panel as well. Most of the discussion came from the floor. Each organization discussed their fundraising initiatives.
After lunch we gave presentations. They dragged on far too long. Went home for supper. Met Karina on the way down to the College and took the bike from her. She would rather bus. Made supper. Watched a portion of a really cheesy TV show while eating. Headed out to the NSCAD dance afterwards. Played ping-pong with Seth. Lost a close game with him. I am surprised it was close, as I have little practice. Took turns with Mohanad and Andrew and Aaron watching the door. Their seemed to be a good turnout. Hopefully we will make a bit of money in it.
Andrew, Mohanad and I took a cab home. I am so tired the computer keys are swimming in front of my eyes. Yaga is mewling, so will now quickly finish up a drawing and then head to bed, where Yaga likes being rubbed the most.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Sunday, September 16, 2001 1:28 AM
Subject: » Air, border travel returning to normal amid high security after U.S. terror» RCMP hold terrorism suspect; up to 100 Canadians still unaccounted for» Fire guts Hindu temple near Hamilton mosque; cause unclear, police say
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Karina was actually up and out the door before me again this morning. This is becoming an unusual routine. She took the bike so I walked to work. We continued with the conference discussing funding problems and drafting a letter to lobby the provincial governments and the Canada Council. This morning was supposed to be the CC presentations but the situation kept them away. We managed to accomplish a fair bit, I think. Had lunch at Mokka. Spoke to Dan about the upcoming presentation he wants me to give to HRM council. We will meet soon about it. In the afternoon there was another panel discussion with a theme of “regions within regions”, but it felt a bit like covering ground we have already traveled. We all went to the Club afterward to discuss Donna’s plans to start a regional Artist Run magazine, based loosely on Lola, specifically on the Shotgun reviews. We need to foster more critical dialogue surrounding contemporary art in the region. Karina came by with a new haircut. It was free, as she was a guinea pig for some Redken symposium or demonstration on hairstyles. She has to go back tomorrow to model the cut. We were going to go home for supper but the ARC/ARC group were going out for supper so we tagged along. Tried to go to the new Thai Chili House, but it is such a small restaurant and has been getting such rave reviews that there were at least five parties waiting ahead of us. So we went to the Med. After supper we went to the Shoe Shop, where my throat really began to bother me. Talked with Don about the bombings and the mainstream media. I am definitely coming down with some sort of cold. Karina and I left a bit early, and headed down to the Khyber to collect my bag. The band Free Space was playing at the Club, but there was a low turnout. It must have been the Snow Jam, which was taking place tonight on Citadel Hill. I played a game of chess with Craig and he whipped me good. I hadn’t played in three years. All it takes is one really stupid move and the whole game unravels. I want to play more, though. It is good practice. I biked home while Karina stayed to catch a bus. I stopped by Andréa’s on the way home, as she was having a housewarming party. Her voice sounds worse than mine. It seems everyone is getting sick lately. I didn’t stay long, talked with Matt a bit about the media centre. He had asked about the technician job a few weeks ago but never followed up on it. He is working at the Victory Arms now. I biked home and actually got home before Karina did. She just came through the door. She had missed the last #7, and so caught a #1, but the #1 let all the passengers out at Scotia Square and said that a shuttle would come by for the passengers, but one never did, so she took a cab home. Weird. She should call Metro Transit on Monday and try to get her cab fare refunded. I am exhausted, will make you a quick drawing then go to bed. Karina has to get up really early to go get prepped to model her new haircut. It would be great to document her recent hair-cutting adventure. Hair is often an adventure with Karina.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Sunday, September 16, 2001 11:07 PM
Subject: » Churches across Canada packed for special masses, makeshift memorials created» Air, border travel returning to normal amid high security after U.S. terror» Chretien to preach wisdom, patience in debate Monday on terror attacks
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Karina woke up on time this morning and I went back to bed and slept until almost eleven. I can’t believe that she actually got up and was out the door before 7am. Unbelievable, it really is. Ate breakfast and began walking downtown, but decided to take a bus instead. Bought yesterdays newspaper and read it along the way. The propaganda is hard to take. Even the so-called “critics” allowed in the daily are lining up behind Bush in support of action. So pointless. True retaliation against the terrorist attacks would have to take into consideration the motivation behind them, and address them, and try to correct them, and the current administration has no such plans to do so. Too busy trying to convince the public that America is an innocent victim. The individuals may have been innocent, but the state isn’t.
Sarah had emailed the drafts of letters to the CC and ministers of culture which I photocopied and distributed to the ARC/ARC members. Today we sat through artist presentations for the afternoon. Just as they were wrapping up Karina came by, having finished her grueling day of modeling and taking part in the Redken hair-dressing seminar. During the event she was confronted by a girl with incredibly racist views. She was saying that Muslims are to blame for the attacks, that Muslims are mentally deficient and easy to brainwash, and that if she was to get on a plane and a Muslim was on it she would get off. Can you believe this claptrap? The unsettling thing is that those views are going to grow, and are being disseminated through the mass media. It seems to me that we are the easily brainwashed.
We walked home and Karina made some curry, took a bath and then went to bed. She was exhausted. I continued reading the paper. Watched the Simpsons; a new episode, but not terribly funny. When Rebecca finished with the computer for the night I got on to do all my emailing, but the Internet isn’t working so I can’t send or receive anything. Will get up early tomorrow and finish. Updated my course outline and materials list for the oil painting class tomorrow night. Andréa is busy working to finish her contribution to Winnie’s show and doesn’t want to teach tomorrow night. I don’t want to do it either but don’t really have a choice. The installation is coming along nicely, by the way.
Don called me tonight requesting a letter of support for the MTT new media prize, as the deadline is tomorrow. Maybe I’ll do that now. Then maybe watch the news. Still have to write an introduction for Winnie’s show, and the grants due next week. Plus the KDMC stuff. Ack.
OK, the Internet is working again. Our modem was simply unplugged. It is easy to forget that the web still needs electricity.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Tuesday, September 18, 2001 12:30 AM
Subject: » PM urges patience in fighting terror, won’t rule out more civilian casualties» Canadian military awaits a plan and orders for possible action against terror» More delays at Cdn airports; new safety measure introduced for flights
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Almost slept in this morning but managed to rouse myself and get to work before nine. Or shortly after nine. Was in the process of clearing out the hallway when Matt called and wanted to know if I wanted to move my studio stuff. I had mentioned to him yesterday that I might like to do that soon. Since he is living in Blockhouse now, and is only in Halifax for a couple days, and suddenly had friends from out of town come to visit, he wanted to move ASAP. Not a problem. I finished a nomination letter for Don for the MTT New Media award and started moving the boxes and the rolled up canvasses. I really don’t have a lot of stuff. We drove to the Bloomfield Centre, stopping at my apartment to get rent and keys from Rebecca. I met with Chuck, the building manager and paid our rent and signed our contract. Moved the stuff in, and grabbed a coffee from Steve-o-renos on the way out. Stopped at Pierceys and grabbed the rest of the sink legs and track lights which had been out of stock weeks ago. Have to send them some money soon; I have been purchasing all the renovations materials on account.
Am supposed to be working on an introduction for Winnie’s show. Had started something over a month ago but now it doesn’t seem relevant. Had lunch with Andréa at Mokka. The oriental noodle salad was a touch too spicy for my palate, but then again food generally isn’t spicy enough in this town. Towards the end of the day I was out on the sidewalk adding some posters to the sidewalk sign and talked to Steven for a bit. It was nice to see him, I wasn’t sure if he was still going to be teaching at NSCAD or not since he and Lani have sold their place in Montréal and moved to France. But he is here until Christmas. The sidewalk became like a magnet; as we were talking Mohanad, Randy, David and Craig all came by. I had to run off to Loomis and Toles to get some supplies for tonight’s oil-painting class.
Stopped by the College for the openings and had coffee with Susan and Sarah beforehand. Mike joined us as well. He heads back to Newfoundland tonight. Saw Karina briefly, she was getting something to eat but I had to run. Talked to Ray, Peter and Sarah about the next Outspoken series and they all agreed to take part.
Couldn’t find my painting supplies anywhere in the apartment when I got home. It took awhile for me to realize that Karina and Rebecca had probably taken my stuff to the studio a couple weeks ago. It was lucky that I had held on to the keys. Class was fun. It was full at fifteen students, and since I hadn’t given St. Andrews Centre advance copies of the materials list hardly anyone had anything to paint with. It was easy enough to share, as we were only making colour wheels. I had so much fun I may try to teach some of the remaining classes, instead of giving them all to Andréa.
Biked home and had a quick bite to eat and a cup of tea. Decided to cut my hair. Caught up on my email and will now try to work on an introduction for the opening of the show tomorrow. After my drawing, of course. Karina has just come home and says I look like a cartoon character with my new haircut. Success; it is just how I wanted it to look.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Wednesday, September 19, 2001 1:16 AM
Subject: » Chretien to meet Bush in White House; Opposition seeks anti-terrorist law» Liberal cabinet silent on how much anti-terrorism campaign could cost» Ernie Coombs, beloved by Canadian children as Mr. Dressup, dies at 73
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
I am lucky to have woken up on time this morning. I had hoped to get up really early and work on my introduction for Winnie’s show, but must have hit the wrong buttons on the alarm clock while trying to hit the snooze. When I woke up the clock said it was past eleven, but it was really just past eight.
Today was a crazy day. The installation continued all day long, and it wasn’t fully completed until just past seven, as people were starting to arrive. The projector situation worked out OK, though it had been damaged during the shipping from Ottawa. Tim will try to get insurance money to repair it. It was fortuitous in a way, though. The lens broke in such a manner as to allow us to get a smaller picture, an exact fit for the small-sized screen built for the exhibition. I got the TV’s and VCR’s working in the Closet, did the lights, Karina biked to Canadian Tire to get some replacement lights, Mohanad painted over scuff-marks and updated the notice board, Liz was in preparing for the presentations tomorrow, Winnie was working on her catalogue essay, The photocopier ran out of toner, Leah brought food, and most of the artists were in and out finalizing their work. Busy.
Stayed at the Club later than usual. Talked with Tim about projector possibilities for the show planned for April-May of 2002. Walked home with Randy, Sarah, Spencer and Karina. Still have to make your drawing and then check my email. Judy had written back from the petition I had sent around; she was quite offended that I would send her a chain letter. I don’t want to be up all night as tomorrow will be a busy, busy day.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Friday, September 21, 2001 12:26 AM
Subject: Montreal police cite murder-suicide after seven found dead – six in same home» Sask police officers fired after convictions in leaving man on winter night» New Democrat Michael Prue wins controversial Toronto-area byelection
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Managed to get some office work done this morning, yay! Went to the bank a couple times. Watched interesting 3-D graphics of Afghanistan and the Khyber Pass while waiting in line to see one of the few tellers still left on duty. Paid some bills. Didn’t get any work done on the Outspoken series, but will hopefully get that all straightened away tomorrow. The day went fast. The Coke delivery guy showed up to collect the empty cannisters and drop of new premix, Andrea was back to clean the Club, and then Robbie and Kate arrived, so we set up their painting, his computer and the projector. Covered Adel’s paintings with black fabric, suspended Robbie and Kate’s painting, then hung the big screen from AFCO-OP. Forgot to run a cheque up to AFCO-OP; will try to remember to do it tomorrow. Julie came by to practice on the G-4 and accidentally lost the hard drive. She did manage to find it again. There was an article in the Coast today about Randy and Ron. There were also tons of articles and letters and responses to the bombings of last week. Now more than 6,000 missing and feared dead. Shockwaves being blamed for a whole list of stresses amongst the living. It is überstyle all over again on the TV nightly news; a list of side effects from our damaged culture. Ate leftover bread and veggie sticks and cheese for supper tonight. Didn’t eat lunch. Drank coffee all day. The presentations went well tonight, though it was a sparse crowd. Robbie and Kate showed their Überstyle piece and spoke about how it came together, and Ron showed the progression his digital work has taken, including a new animated piece set to a new Sixtoo song based on a Lucie Chan show. Is it the film festival, or do I just really suck at promotion? Made up some quickie posters and stuck them up at NSCAD on the way home. Read the Coast some more. Biked home. Watched the news and highlights from President Bush’s speech. Apparently now, according to him, those that aren’t with the ‘States are “with” the terrorists. What baloney. All the reports of 80-90% of people supporting Bush and “America’s New War” is making me depressed. Doesn’t anyone believe in pacifism anymore? Didn’t we learn a long time ago that violence spawns violence? Didn’t Einstein show that for every action there is an equal reaction? Will the truly civilized amongst us ever lead us? Too many questions, and no answers. Just frustration.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Saturday, September 22, 2001 1:43 AM
Subject: Chretien not offended by Bush’s failure to mention Canada in speech» Economic growth will halt in the third quarter or shrink, says Bank of Canada» Ottawa considers possible troop deployment; probe of terrorist links continue
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Even though the days are technically getting shorter, they feel somewhat longer. Didn’t get to work until 9:30. Wrapped up some HRDC summer work grants stuff. Received a letter from Purolator. they declined the claim because I didn’t file within 60 days. I didn’t get a letter from them saying I was eligible to claim until five days before the sixty. I called and vented, and had a supervisor call me back and I vented on her as well. Then faxed an earlier letter I had sent immediately after I had heard about the damaged shipments. It is a nasty letter. Then I called someone at Customer Service and vented on her voicemail. All this put me in a bit of a mood, but the office was so busy with people all afternoon I gradually forgot about it. Dan came in to look over previous minutes and type up the ones from the last board meeting. A few NSCAD students came in and bought memberships. Julie came in to plan her workshops tomorrow. Still only one person enrolled, however. Makes me feel sick. Talked to Mern about Cultural Spaces grants. They are going to be more complicated than I had thought, but she seems optimistic. Makes me feel nervous. I really need to set aside some time to write them. Randy came in to set up the live webcast with Norma in the Clu tonight. The Club was dead. Only Rebecca, Susan and some other guy came for it. Chatting with Norma was cool, though. Seeing her projected on the big screen was quite nifty, she resembles a lot of her animations. Or vice versa, I suppose. Andrea and Undrea came for the webcast and stuck it out. Ray and Sarah, Paul and Cal and Greg came, but more to talk and drink than watch the web. Greg was really putting them back. Winnie came by as well. They were waiting for Charmaine but she never showed. Paul was telling me about grants the Khyber may be eligible for that I didn’t even know existed. Ray and Sarah invited Karina and I over to their place tomorrow night. Andrea is supposed to be in town but she may want to go there as well. Karina didn’t come out tonight as she was “sick of people”. Hopefully she’ll want to go out tomorrow. I played a shotgun game of chess with Craig and amazingly I won. He must have let me beat him. A fluke, I’m sure. Erinn and a few of her friends came by and lo and behold Peter was with them. He had been spending his summer as a bicycle tour guide in BC. He was quite pleased with everything that has been happening at the Khyber. Which in turn makes me feel a bit better about my job. Stayed and talked to them for a bit and then biked home. It was later than I had hoped to be home, but I can sleep in an extra hour or so tomorrow. Haven’t decided if I will take Julie’s workshop tomorrow or not. Will at least be there for her presentation.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Sunday, September 23, 2001 2:22 AM
Subject: Canada unprepared for biological, chemical terrorism, experts say» Afghan Canadians frantic about their loved ones back home and in Pakistan» Pilot who landed disabled jet safely in Azores honoured in home town
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Slept in a wee bit, Karina was actually up and gone before I got up. She was hired to take some documentation photos of another students work. I was going to take a bus downtown, as it looked like rain, but I misses the bus. Luckily Andrew was driving by to pick up Mohanad and they dropped me off at work on their way to the Market. Helped Julie set up the projector and the PC and stayed for her class, as only two other people enrolled. I enjoyed the class quite a bit, am learning Dreamweaver. I may be able to have a website up soon. Maybe by this time next year?
Randy was by throughout the day and later on set up for his projection downstairs in the Club. Had supper at the Med with Karina. Back to the Club. At long last, there was actually a good crowd, and good conversation and discussion after viewing Randy’s work. Good to hear.
Karina and I walked to Christine’s house to meet her and Andrea and Bethany and Trevor. They were playing a board game, sort of like Pictionary, Trivial Pursuit, Charades, and a spelling bee all rolled into one. We joined in the game, smoked up and had a great old time. It was nice to relax and just be silly. The evening turned into a bit of a daring contest. I ended up sticking cheesies up my nose, and trying to eat six saltine crackers in under a minute. I failed at the latter. In fact, I couldn’t even eat one cracker in one minute. My mouth was far too dry. I hope Andrea gets her pictures developed. She still hasn’t developed the roll from the last time we were all at Christine’s, and I poured two boxes of salt on her tablecloth to absorb spilled red wine.
Walked home late. Very tired now. Have to get up early-ish and work on some suggestions for the 4-C’s grant. Send some email. Organize some files before taking the second day of Julie’s workshop. Have some office work to do tomorrow as well. Off now to make your drawing, then to bed.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Sunday, September 23, 2001 11:05 PM
Subject: Tory National Council backs Joe Clark’s efforts to expand coalition with DRC» Chretien should create cabinet security post to tackle rising threat» B.C. Community Minister can’t guarantee province won’t cut municipal funding
Slept in a bit too long this morning, and Karina and I ended up rushing out the door, missing our bus and having to take a cab downtown in order to eat breakfast before taking the rest of Julie’s workshop. We ate at the Med, of course. It was really busy today. I didn’t take part in Julie’s workshop today, as Karina wanted to work on her website, and I had office stuff to catch up on. I helped periodically with technical and logistical stuff. Met with Andréa and discussed Khyber Kids and the 4-C’s proposal, and talked with Catherine about it. Nathaniel came by and wants to take one of the spots available in the Turret. I think we will be able to fill the three spots by the middle of the week. Hammered out a few more details for the Outspoken series. Talked with Sarah and we decided that Heather would make a better panelist, given her experience this past year as the MSVU Art Gallery curatorial intern. We have decided to hold it upstairs in the gallery as well.
Stayed at work too late tonight, missing supper and getting cranky. Polished off some leftover crackers and carrot sticks from the fridge. We walked home with Randy. Had hoped to get home in time to watch the Simpsons, and we were, only the Simpsons was pre-empted by some NBC Late-Night TV special. Bummer. Will take the opportunity to fiish my computer work early, then wash some clothes. Am completely out of clean socks and underwear. Will try to make something to eat as well. Have a fundraising committee meeting tomorrow morning at 9am at the North End Diner. I couldn’t reach a lot of people and Sarah lost her list, so it will probably be a small meeting. Hopefully we can delegate some specific events and get the ball rolling.
Tomorrow is Karina’s birthday. I have been anticipating it all month long, but somehow it has still snuck up on me. I will have to look for a gift tomorrow, and plan to do something special.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Tuesday, September 25, 2001 12:14 AM
Subject: Tory-rebel Alliance coalition gets partial Commons status, but no extra perks» No Canadian military role against terrorism yet, but there’s a sales job open» No cameras in court during trial of former B.C. premier Glen Clark: judge
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Woke up a bit later than I had planned but still with enough time to design a Women’s Collective meeting poster for Karina. Had washed some underwear and socks last night in the hope that they would be dry this morning, but was not the case. Put them in the microwave to speed up the drying but it only made them seem wetter and warmer. Found a pair of clean socks in Karina’s drawers. Went without underwear today.
Met with Sarah, Spencer and Rebecca at the North End Diner for breakfast to discuss upcoming fundraising and events. We have tentatively set dates for the Gong Show, a couple Mugshots and a yard sale. Now just need to get the bodies to carry out some of the tasks. There is some good enthusiasm behind the projects, which is a good thing.
Went to work and finalized some of the details for the next Outspoken, finished a poster and handbills. Nathaniel came by and signed a lease for the Turret space. Andrea came by and walked with me to Mahons to get some colourful paper. We stopped for coffee at Steve-o-renos and discussed the events in New York. There aren’t really any words left. There never really were any to begin with. A lot of things just seem pointless now.
Lots of people, tourists mostly, have been stopping by the CAP site wanting to check their email. I’m thinking we have to design some sort of special one-time membership so people can still use the facilities. James came by to test some of his work on the PC but it wouldn’t run properly. We didn’t have access to Robbie’s dad’s computer anymore, so Randy went and got his from home We have to have the PC looked at.
Picked up some flowers for Karina on my way down to NSCAD for the openings tonight. Andréa is teaching my oil painting class tonight. Craig’s show, “Apologetic letters to my friends” was on display, complete with Craig in the window offering to wash the feet of gallery visitors. It feels weird and quite nice to have someone else wash ones feet. Ran through the school and put up some posters for the Outspoken. Then Karina, Rebecca, Mohanad and Andrew went to Mamoya for sushi. After that Karina and I went to the Khyber to watch James’ presentation. He really does make amazing Flash works. Mesmerizing.
Unfortunately, after that Karina got upset over the way her birthday has been progressing, especially the fact that I had yet to get her a gift. I don’t know where the time has gone, or how I had managed to run out of time, even though I have been aware of her birthday for weeks now. We argued and I got mad and defensive and stomped on her flowers and tried to storm away to cool off but she chased me and we had a bit of a tiff in front of Reflections. I feel emotionally dead, drained from everything that has been happening, just wanting for things to be normal. It is too much energy to be emotional. We sort of cooled down just as Rikka and Andrea walked up to us. We all wandered around and ended up at Freak Lunchbox to buy candy. Then we walked home, all of us parting company at the corner of Gottingen and Cornwallis. Andrea flies back to New York tomorrow.
Have some major ground to make up with Karina. Hardly know where or how to begin.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Wednesday, September 26, 2001 11:53 PM
Subject: U.S. ambassador says border security shouldn’t strangle trade with Canada» Air Canada to cut 5,000 more workers, for total of 12,500; grounds 84 planes» Feds face economic slowdown amid need for anti-terrorist security spending
Dear Mr, Chrétien,
Took my chances with the weather today and biked to work. It looked as though it might clear up early on, but the rain began in the afternoon and didn’t really let up until later in the evening. I was only caught outside in the rain once, as I walked back from AVCOOP after returning the projection screen. Chris was great about the rental, and actually didn’t charge us. I’ll have to return the favour sometime.
Tried to make some headway on the grants but got bogged down in office stuff. It is one of those weeks where I am having trouble focusing on and completing one task at a time. Lucas came in for some training, which I wanted to be a part of but was constantly called away by the phone or visitors. He’ll pick it up soon enough. I also think he’ll have a lot to contribute. A girl named Emily came by to look at one of the spaces available in the Turret and said she’d take it, which is good, only one more space to fill. Barbara came by to look but didn’t seem overly thrilled. She’ll let me know on Friday. Craig informed me that the student council at NSCAD was only going to give the Khyber $250 from the dance a couple weeks ago. That’s not too bad, but the door itself made over $600. It seems a bit dodgy to me, that they advertised the dance as a fundraiser for the Khyber and then to keep over half the money for themselves. I will call her tomorrow and go to the next council meeting to try to see where they are coming from.
Had supper with Karina at the Med. She is still quite miffed with me for bungling her birthday. Can’t really blame her. I have apologized but she senses that my heart isn’t in it. That’s the problem; it isn’t. I feel like I’ve lost my heart, that I am too detached to care. But I do care, and I ache inside that I can’t seem to let on that I care. It won’t come out. I just want to sleep, ignore it, hope it will go away. Yesterday I spent time at Attica looking for a gift and couldn’t decide on anything. Maybe I’m just cheap. Or maybe its that I hate the idea of adding more stuff, more clutter to our lives. Eventually I bought some aromatherapy, but haven’t even wrapped it yet, let alone given it to her. I figure she would appreciate it for baths, as she finds baths relaxing. I don’t know what my hang-up is over birthdays and gifts. Maybe I’m just backwards when it comes to showing people I care about them. I do it all wrong.
Set up for the Otspoken tonight in the gallery. There was a small turnout, and Ray called in to cancel as he has come down with the flu. The disussions seemed to go OK, given that I hadn’t tightened up the parameters around the topic. The “Art of Curation” as a topic is quite broad. I may have been able to do a better job had I not tried to throw it together in a week. I should plan the next one now, as it is in just over three weeks. Egad, how time flies.
Stayed at the Club for a bit afterwards, talked with Peter and Winnie and Gordon. Eventually biked home after realizing it was past ten-thirty. I had hoped to be home by nine. Karina still isn’t home, she must be working late in the darkroom. I’ll make your drawing then check my email then go to bed, with any luck before midnight. Got a message from my mom, she wants us to spend next weekend with them at Vicki and Peter’s new cottage. That would be nice. Tomorrow is another long day. They are wearing me out, yet I can’t figure out how to shorten them.
-Chris
From: chris lloyd <hunterwasser@yahoo.com>
To: <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Cc: <clloyd@khyberarts.ns.ca>
Date: Wednesday, September 26, 2001 12:12 AM
Subject: Canada moving ‘as fast as anyone else’ on anti-terror front, says Chretien
Dear Mr. Chretien,
Slept in a bit late this morning, must have hit the snooze button at least eight times. Karina had to rush out, she was late for a photo session. It looked like it might rain so I took the bus. On the way down the Cogswell Interchange the driver had to slam the brakes on and a woman was slammed into the wall behind the driver and a few of the toddlers who were on board were hurt. It was a very strange experience. We all left our names and the bus number with the driver.
It was go-go-go today. People constantly coming in and out. It is great that the building is seeing this much use. The KDMC is getting more use. Did some banking. Still looking for people to rent the Turret. Renee backed out. Karina came by for lunch but I couldn’t
find time to eat until past 3. Had a meeting with Dan at HRM to go over Heritage Canada funding applications. Mern gave some good tips. The application looks really hard. I think we may only have the energy to apply for specialized equipment.
Came back to the Khyber after the meeting and helped Randy take the big projection screen and Robbie’s painting down from the back wall of the Club. Was supposed to bring the screen back today but it will have to wait until tomorrow.
Liz was giving her workshop tonight. I stayed in the office to try to get some work done, but really only succeeded in finishing off a box of timbits and talking with Jacob about turning the Turret into a performance space. Made some notes on the upcoming grants. Added to my growing list of things to do.
The workshop went on a bit later than expected; it’s still going, actually. Liz is very determined. Rebecca and Karina are the only ones left. They are uploading video clips of parts of faces arranged in the shape of a face for the web. It is an ambitious prkojject, and they are staying late to try to finish it, but I don’t think it’s going to happen. Technology being as reliable as it is. Everyone is getting tired. I finished a drawing on this computer, will send it all off to you, then hopefully get home soon.
-Chris
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From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Friday, September 28, 2001 1:18 AM
Subject: Prime minister says Canadian transportation system safer now than ever» Chretien invites other federal party leaders to visit New York City with him» Toronto neighbourhood claims to have seen terrorists in months before attacks
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Set the office alarm off this morning by entering the Ballroom before disarming the system. That woke me up! I was so shocked at hearing it that I couldn’t find the office key, and fumbled around for it while the alarm was going on and on. At least it works.
Had a coffee with Sally and her friend Michelle to discuss Live Art productions dance festival in February. There are a few days in between Ana’s exhibition closing and Tim’s opening that I think the Ballroom could host a few events. Would like to put a call out for performance artists to do some site-specific work in the building as well. Should be fun.
Amid the bustle of another day I managed to get a bit of work done on the grants. A few more members joined the KDMC. Peter from Heritage Trust came up to look at the walls, and ascertain that the wainscotting was indeed still there underneath. Tom came by as well to tell me that he and a contractor will be by next week to take some measurements in the Turret. It is going to be an interesting few months, as we try to figure out what the best plan of action is for the Turret space. Right now am still looking for one more Tenant. Briony said that she may be interested. Didn’t get around to calling Raye at SUNSCAD about the donation. Must try to do that tomorrow, and get on the agenda for their meeting on Monday.
We were supposed to have a meeting tonight to discuss what to do with the consultation grant, but Winnie was waiting to here back from Genesis and that didn’t happen so we cancelled the meeting. Hooray, a night off. And Karina came in to the office this afternoon and showed me some sharp images she has been producing. Photograms of pages from a photography magazine. The re-photographed photograms look really sharp, and will probably look even better larger. A mini-crit in the middle of the afternoon is like a little holiday.
Finally caught up on my laundry tonight. It has been at least four weeks. Was officially out of underwear and Karina’s socks today. Rigged up the basket to the front of the bike and am able to cycle with three loads. Went to Salim’s on North Street. Best laundromat I have been to yet. Combined with a corner store. Friendly staff, busy, lots of people. The machines are cheap and clean. Could have done without Charlie’s Angels on the in-house TV, but it can’t be perfect.
Ate a little bit when I got home, smoked a joint and spent the rest of the evening alternating between watching a movie and helping Rebecca design posters for some of the upcoming fundraisers. Had already told myself earlier that I was going to try to relax tonight, get a good nights sleep and be twice as efficient tomorrow.
Karina is still not home from school, am going to finish your drawing and go to bed.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Saturday, September 29, 2001 12:43 AM
Subject: First anniversary of Trudeau’s death seems to pass quietly in Quebec» Air Canada passengers tell of frightening fighter jet escort» Prime minister still keen to do diplomatic globe-trotting, says his office
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
It was quiet at the office today, hardly anyone came by to use the KDMC. I was able to get a fair bit done on the grants. Brandon came by to discuss the Purolator claim, just after I had finished a few letters to them. Forgot to mail them, though. Emily came by to sign her lease. We are still looking for one more person for the Turret. Will email board members to try to find someone this weekend. Got an email from my mom, she sounded concerned that I was working too much. Wrote back to say I’m trying to slow down. Trying.
Had a really disturbing phone conversation with Raye from SUNSCAD this afternoon. Luckily it was late in the day, because I couldn’t do any work afterwards, I was so upset. I called to inquire about the proceeds from the dance, and she became really defensive and mean. She said that the dance only made $50, but that the executive had decided to donate $250 to the Khyber anyway. It was when I asked to see the breakdown, of where the dance had supposedly lost money, that she became really defensive, and said it wasn’t my business. I was only asking because a lot of people were at the dance, and it seemed that the bar did well. We must have been on the phone for twenty minutes, haranguing each other. It was awful. I am going to sit in on one of their executive meetings to try to familiarize some of them with our situation. I am forbidden to discuss the situation with the dance, however. I don’t want to get sucked up in the sordid world of student politics. I just don’t want to go there.
Sat downstairs in the Club afterwards. To try to calm down. Collect my thoughts. Randy is having a “going away” party tonight. He leaves on Sunday. I didn’t realize it was so soon. I’ll miss him. I’m getting tired of constantly watching people leave. Some magnetic city.
Karina and I were going to go to the closing of the show at St. Mary’s tonight, but changed our minds less than a block out the door. Decided to go home and relax instead. Actually made some supper, though there was slim pickings, and I over-boiled the veggies. Which were frozen to begin with. Karina didn’t even eat them. I don’t blame her. It was like dry mush, if you can imagine such a thing. It made me think about giving a large donation to the SUNSCAD food bank. Of real food, not the stuff I made tonight. Craig says there is no food in it. Maybe the proceeds from the dance could be used to get some things.
Ate supper while Karina entertained Mary and Courtney with her hair story. We had smoked up, and she always gets more talkative when she smokes. I tend to gravitate more towards introspection. Making weird associations in my head. Building strange coincidences. We watched an Ellen Degeneres stand up routine. She certainly peppers her routine with a lot of “love everything” statements, but a lot of her act was smart and funny.
We’re planning to go to the Market tomorrow. Get back on track with buying fresh produce. Cook more meals at home. I have some paintings to complete by next week for a show at the Danube café. I’m thinking of combining small paintings on a larger surface that includes a computer printout of some of my drawings. Don’t have much time to figure it out. Gonna go and make a drawing right now. I had hoped to be in bed by now.
-Chris
From: karina van der linden <kvanderlinden@hfx.eastlink.ca>
To: jean chretien <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Date: Sunday, September 30, 2001 12:56 AM
Subject: Friends say Trudeau’s warnings about nationalism worth remembering» Campbell tells British Columbians to ‘buy an airplane ticket, travel somewhere?» Reforms needed in Canadian intelligence to fight terrorism, say experts
Dear Mr. Chrétien,
Had plans this morning to go to the Market and buy fresh vegetables. Agreed to meet Mohanad there at eleven, after pushing back the original scheduled departure time of ten so Karina and I could go eat breakfast at Mary’s Place. The breakfast wasn’t the greatest today. Half a dozen home fries, soggy eggs and soggy toast. Even the coffee tasted soggy. Then Karina needed to get some wood from Pierceys. We managed to catch a bus downtown but it was almost noon so we skipped the market and went to MEC to buy Karina a thermos for tea. It was sort of a birthday present for her, but sh had to buy it because I have no money.
Went to work, opened up the galleries and worked on the NSAC grants all day, in between phone calls and visitations. The grant writing is going slow, but I think I can get it done by Monday night. I hope so.
Karina and I stayed fairly late, until just past eight. She took a bus home to watch a movie with Rebecca and I walked to Superstore on Barrington to get some food to bring to a pot-luck at Don’s house. He lives up on Brunswick Street in one of those big apartment buildings. It was weird to see that he lives in Tower Two. If I was the owner or manager of the building I think I would take those signs down. The meaning is so warped now.
The party was OK, most of the MFA students. I didn’t meet them all, spoke to Crystal for a bit, and Tania and Ray and Donna. There was some great food though. Felt like I hadn’t eaten real food in a week. It was great. Stayed until almost midnight and walked home. The season is definitely changing. It is chilly outside. It won’t be long before I’ll need to order heating oil for the Khyber, something I am not looking forward to.
Our next door and downstairs neighbours are both having parties tonight. Loudness all around. I just want to finish up on the computer and go to bed, as I want to get up early and continue with the grant writing. Hope to spend a little bit of time at Word on the Street tomorrow, but have a feeling it may not happen.
-Chris
DEAR PM 