tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90952709851707218762024-03-19T08:47:35.252+00:00Tony's MusingsRandom thoughts, poems, jottings, and as it says, musings. About anything and everything!TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.comBlogger5020125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-78834056706024028572024-03-16T09:24:00.005+00:002024-03-16T09:24:54.285+00:00Sea Change<div>a</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6OVhkwRZ9XsBDOsSYajUFU1iHdHgdyVmeW6aGDghSc6n8DpAC5_EJEVlhhmd8ywoNtGjBiyc7UoHUm6alpjkkVrlPCLMKm1RmQ-JWT0rzR8gLiVSpgU8fFs5b5Iq8dMr1ApbPcWIl4cschZlj3Ja9qibIy7CvT_wX9UB57GklY1-2EtTpEXtDNWaZ_dU/s1024/OIG2.ZzA_bhkWhBuMc3FbI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6OVhkwRZ9XsBDOsSYajUFU1iHdHgdyVmeW6aGDghSc6n8DpAC5_EJEVlhhmd8ywoNtGjBiyc7UoHUm6alpjkkVrlPCLMKm1RmQ-JWT0rzR8gLiVSpgU8fFs5b5Iq8dMr1ApbPcWIl4cschZlj3Ja9qibIy7CvT_wX9UB57GklY1-2EtTpEXtDNWaZ_dU/w200-h200/OIG2.ZzA_bhkWhBuMc3FbI.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>One from the back catalogue today, from 31 August 2005.</div><div><br /></div><b>Sea Change<br /></b> <br />It is the ending of days, last of sun and sand<br />The wind changes direction, a colder hand<br />Denoting a sea change coming, unsettled time<br />Weather not easily forecast, changing clime<br />Turbulent waves of the spring tide breaking<br />In their thunder, the language of the making<br />If we can but interpret it, but subtle are ways<br />By which we come to learn the book of days<br />In the rocks, above the tide mark, I can see<br />A spider's web, spun with design, of an end<br />In intricate mystery, a pattern to apprehend<br />Perhaps at best, a woven web of guesses<br />This way, and this alone, truth expresses<br />Above, the gulls soar in the wind, a dance<br />In the air, display of harmony and chance<br />And their cries rend the air, seeming call<br />To whatever destiny our path may befall<br />This is the sea of faith, the shingled beach<br />Always at hand, and always out of reach.<br />TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-17178817739869065612024-03-15T01:30:00.011+00:002024-03-15T01:30:00.140+00:001974 - 50 Years Ago - March Part 1<div class="separator"><a href="https://cdn.generalblue.com/calendar/1974-calendar-portrait-sunday-start-612x792.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://cdn.generalblue.com/calendar/1974-calendar-portrait-sunday-start-612x792.webp" width="247" /></a></div><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>MARCH 1974 - Part 1 <br /><br />1.—Cypriot. Christos Mahaed Georgiou was fined £200 by the Police Court this morning for organizing illegal gambling at the The Millionaires Caledonia Place, from February 1 to 19. <br /><br />4.—Although there have been no further cases of foot-and-mouth disease since the initial outbreak nearly two weeks ago, Department of Agriculture officials are warning farmers against complacency. The Department’s deputy chief executive officer, Mr. Walter Tardivel, said this morning that the danger of a further outbreak has not yet passed. <br /><br />5.—-—It was announced that the price of milk is to go up by ½ p a pint on March 31. The increase is due to the dramatic rise in the cost of raw materials and fuel during the last four months. <br /><br />6.——Extensive premises at La Motte Street and Colomberie Close. including the Cory’s cleaner’s shop have been sold and are to be used partly for offices. The properties, 30 La Motte Street, 10 Colomberie Close and Colomberie Close Flats, have been bought from Mr. L. P. Stevens, of Sea Garth, Bel Royal, by Tableau Investment Ltd, for an undisclosed sum. . <br /><br />7.—The restrictions on putting cattle out to grass—imposed following the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease on February 19—are to be lifted from midnight tonight. But the Committee of Agriculture—who discussed the matter this morning—stress the. need for continued vigilance by the farming community. <br /><br />8.—-The Committee of Agriculture has issued a lengthy statement on the outbreak. If there are no further outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease, all the restrictions will be removed from midnight next Tuesday, three weeks after the outbreak was confirmed at Woodlands, St. Ouen. ‘ <br /><br />9.—-The full extent of the damage to the early potato crop caused by the severe frost earlier this week has not yet been ascertained, but it is expected to be “quite serious ”. <br /><br />11.--A well-organized “ streak ” took the Weighbridge by surprise as a lone runner, wearing only plimsolls and red and white woollen hat, appeared from a car and ran some 50 yards along Commercial Buildings, before disappearing into one of the warehouses. <br /><br />12.-——Householders are to pay 17 1/2 per cent more for their water from March 25. This amounts to about £1.20 per quarter for a three-bedroomed house. The increased charge for commercial users goes up by considerably more. <br /><br />13.—The most comprehensive promotional programme ever devised for Jersey’s agricultural industry will publicize Island produce in the UK this year. Devised by Interlink Development in conjunction with the Jersey Agricultural Marketing Federation. it has now been given the go-ahead by the Committee of Agriculture. <br /><br />14.—Jersey boxer Tommy Cavanagh. of Leonis ABC. won the London South-West middleweight championship at Battersea Town Hall in London. In the semi-final he beat B. Harry, of Wandsworth, and in the final he boxed superbly to outpoint the favourite, K. Graham, of Battersea. <br /><br />15.-—-“ Jersey Evening Post" vernacular columnist Mr. George F. Le Feuvre (“ George -d’La Forge ") has been awarded Le Prix Littéraire du Cotentin for his " Jerri Jadis ”, the first full-length book in Jersey Norman-French. Much of Mr. Le Feuvre’s book is based on the weekly articles that he writes for the “JEP”. Jersey’s voluntary Meals on Wheels Service delivered its 100,000th meal, a total reached after 11 years or operation.</div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-72753694798107351482024-03-12T08:40:00.000+00:002024-03-12T08:40:00.240+00:00Foreshore: An end to the saga.<div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjZXpuOzIL6F8JhCwuoeGaGC6EFrf3y_A_dvUQ6HfMZe6GG2_aTPI8lNDiINR0-8R7m4stzmXZAAsbzKMI513woL0pjDX2D4hYmKfCK_jbtKyuQkPXNme7ld9Ja45Cpz-a4gGZ6TepTCieQz-jpaarCsZE8OiRsh8XkkLLnUcgqt0NC5E1Api0iJeRqw8I" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjZXpuOzIL6F8JhCwuoeGaGC6EFrf3y_A_dvUQ6HfMZe6GG2_aTPI8lNDiINR0-8R7m4stzmXZAAsbzKMI513woL0pjDX2D4hYmKfCK_jbtKyuQkPXNme7ld9Ja45Cpz-a4gGZ6TepTCieQz-jpaarCsZE8OiRsh8XkkLLnUcgqt0NC5E1Api0iJeRqw8I=w320-h213" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /><b>Foreshore: An end to the saga. <br /></b><br />“I believe totally this was conceived as a wonderful cash making scheme devised by a in post civil <br />servant that could see a money generating method to prove that JPH was worthy of its being in existence.” (Alan Luce) <br /><br />The JEP reported that “Both Mr Luce and Mr Mallinson spoke of their relief at receiving their payments yesterday morning and praised the past and present Infrastructure Ministers, Deputy Tom Binet and Constable Andy Jehan, for their help, as well as Deputies Labey and Philip Bailhache. ” <br /><br />“However, the pair said they felt their experience still raised wider questions about the machinery of government and conduct of certain officials: ‘It is unacceptable that the directors of Property Holdings ignored the opinions and recommendations of the Jersey Law Society, the Complaints Board and the Scrutiny panel and acted in a wholly incompetent and unjust manner that has resulted in unnecessary expense to the taxpayer,’ Mr Mallinson added.” <br /><br />“Upon assuming the role of Infrastructure Minister after the collapse of Deputy Moore’s government, Mr Jehan wrote a letter clearly instructing civil servants to make the payments without delay. After several weeks with no movement, despite follow-ups from Mr Luce and Mr Mallinson, Mr Jehan sent a second instruction towards the end of the month.” <br /><br />It is clear that even at the 11th hour, the civil servants were still dragging their heels over compensation payments. But who were the civil servants involved in the original claims by Jersey Property Holdings? <br /><br />The Jersey Complaints Board report which severely criticised JPH did name some surnames! I have however after some consideration to just put their initials here, although the linked report which can be read (bottom of blog) does name them. However, it is not subject to Google Indexing, so I have decided for their families sake to give them a consideration they didn't give Mr Luce or Mr Mallinson.<br /><br />In the case of Mr Luce, a Mr F-t was involved: <br /><br />“In September 2015, Mr. Luce placed Roche de la Mer for sale with Broadlands Estates. He was subsequently written to – as was Broadlands Estates – on 9th September 2015 by Mr. F-t, Estates Surveyor, JPH, to the effect that the construction of Roche de la Mer constituted a clear encroachment onto the seawall, which belonged to the Public of the Island. “ <br /><br />“Mr. Luce and Mr. F-t subsequently spoke on the telephone, and on 11th December 2015, the latter sent Mr. Luce an electronic mail message, which stated: “While one possible solution is to allow the encroachments to remain upon payment to the Public of a financial consideration and the passing of a contract before the Royal Court in which the terms upon which the encroachments could remain would be set out, the Public reserves the right in the alternative to seek the complete removal of all and any encroaching parts of your property. I cannot stress too strongly the seriousness of the encroachments and this should be brought to the attention of any prospective purchaser(s).”. This correspondence and others emanating from JPH were caveated “Subject to contract and Ministerial approval.” <br /><br />In the case of Mr Mallinson, Mr F-r and Mr F- were involved: <br /><br />“The advice of the prospective purchaser’s lawyers was forwarded by the former, without the advance knowledge of Mr. Mallinson, to the Minister for Infrastructure, asking if a deed of arrangement could be entered into. The Minister, in turn, redirected the enquiry to Mr. F-r Director of Estates, JPH, on the basis that it was not strictly a political matter” <br /><br />“Mr. Mallinson subsequently met with Mr. F-t and Mr. F-r, who refused to entertain any suggestion that the seawall was not in the ownership of the Crown at that juncture, reiterated that Ksum Ltd. had encroached onto the sea defences, and sought compensation in order to ratify the boundary.” <br /><br />Conclusion: <br /><br />With presumably the tacit approval of the Minister, two civil servants were involved in engaging and putting a forceful case against the landowners. They may have been acting on legal advice, which subsequent events – namely the compensation paid - have shown to be mistaken. But their intransigence leaves much to be desired. Would it not be asking too much for an apology from JPH on behalf of all and any of its officials who pursued this aggressive policy? And can the public have assurance that lessons have been learnt?<br /><br /><a href="https://statesassembly.gov.je/assemblyreports/2018/r.71-2018.pdf">https://statesassembly.gov.je/assemblyreports/2018/r.71-2018.pdf</a>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-24992473850557571812024-03-11T01:30:00.002+00:002024-03-11T07:55:45.767+00:00The Bergerac File<div class="separator"><a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2024/03/03/bergerac-return-aidan-turner-david-tennant-james-norton/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img height="168" src="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/content/dam/news/2024/03/03/TELEMMGLPICT000369103416_17094863675640_trans_NvBQzQNjv4BqERCyFNcLUIKPeqT28e10m6Aezwuvexs_ues-aCB_TCg.jpeg?impolicy=logo-overlay" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Some notes on the new proposed reboot. It has been "on the cards" with "big names" since 2021! That is with the same Brian Constantine who has two credits to his name on IMDB - Channel Report and Real Housewives of Jersey. True there are other production names - in 7 June 2022, we have Executive producers Phil Trethowan, Ben Bickerton and writer Toby Whithouse. That was just before the elections. <br /><br />2022 just mentioned "an initial draft script" which suggests a pilot episode to see if it gets taken up. This has happened with BBC shows before - notably spin offs from Morse - Lewis and Endeavour, where viewing figures are perused and a decision is made with the distributor whether they want to make more series. Of course sometimes this does not happen. The 1996 "reboot" of Dr Who with Paul McGann did not perform well enough and the options were dropped. So any monies from Jersey may not be a series but just a one-off pilot. Clearly the mention in recent publicity of "having script" must before partly back to June 2022!<br /><br />It also seems likely from the most recent publicity that it would now be limited to a streaming platform, not the BBC, so coverage might not be as widespread. Ironically if the States of Jersey stumped up the money, Islanders would have to pay to watch it!<br /><br />Interestingly, the creator of the show, Robert Banks-Stewart, wanted John Nettles as the star precisely because he wasn't a "big name"!<br /><br />Personally I have seen £200,0000 wasted on a film that never came to fruition. Sometimes money is sunk into a project and it never actually comes to the screen. The hype on this one makes me very sceptical indeed! That was a case where no due diligence was done or requested properly by the Minister, and it was sold with maximum hype. Forget "expressed an interest" - that's just more hype. Contracts have been signed would be realistic. And what contracts have been signed with distributors? Clearly none so far.<br /><br />Ask yourself this: if it is such a wonderful project, why has nothing actually happened since October 2021? Bergerac used to visit "The Royal Barge" at St Aubin a lot. I wouldn't touch this project with a barge pole.<br /><br /><b>The Bergerac Files<br /></b><br /><b>Bergerac reboot has "big names" in the running for lead role<br /></b><br />The titular Jersey-based detective is returning for a reboot – and it's possible that an A-lister could be Bergerac's new star.<br />Published: Tuesday, 19 October 2021<br /><br />Brian Constantine, an executive producer on the Bergerac reboot, told BBC Breakfast this morning that some "very big names" have expressed interest in becoming the next Jim Bergerac – the Jersey-based detective originally played by John Nettles.<br /><br />https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/drama/bergerac-reboot-big-names-lead-newsupdate/<div><br /><b>Bergerac series reboot ‘due to start filming in summer 2023’<br /></b>Published: 7 June 2022<br /><br />Before the pandemic the project was reaching its final stages with Paramount Network, Westward Studios, Artists’ Studios and Endemol Shine UK.<br /><br />At the end of 2020, French TV production firm Banijay sealed its $2.2 billion acquisition of Endemol Shine from Disney and Apollo Global Management, which meant that the previous Bergerac project team was split up. Westward Studios, Banijay – and its company BlackLight – eventually decided to buy back the script from the owners of Paramount and start again, with the rights to develop the series being renewed last year.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.jerseyeveningpost.com/news/2022/06/07/bergerac-series-reboot-due-to-start-filming-in-summer-2023/">https://www.jerseyeveningpost.com/news/2022/06/07/bergerac-series-reboot-due-to-start-filming-in-summer-2023/</a><br /><br /><b>Producer says Bergerac could return by 2024<br /></b>Published 7 June 2022<br /><br />A reboot of a classic TV crime show set in Jersey could return to screens by 2024, an executive producer has said. The BBC detective series Bergerac ran for nine series from 1981 to 1991, with John Nettles as detective sergeant Jim Bergerac. Westward Studios executive producer Brian Constantine said the new production was in its final stages of development. He said they hoped to film in the island as much as possible.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-jersey-61720477">https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-jersey-61720477</a><br /><br />June 2022: <br /><br />Executive producers Phil Trethowan, Ben Bickerton and writer Toby Whithouse were recently able to visit Jersey for a familiarisation and scouting exercise that resulted in numerous changes being made to the initial draft script.<br /><br />Mr Whithouse – who has worked on major BBC shows including Being Human and Doctor Who – said: ‘I’m delighted to have been given this opportunity to explore and devise a new iteration of this iconic show. We know how important Bergerac is to the people of Jersey, and it’s an honour to have been loaned the keys.’<br /><br />As well as seeing the different sites and locations first-hand, the team met senior members of government, the police and Visit Jersey.<br /><br />Mr Trethowan said: ‘We’re incredibly excited to be involved in the reboot of one of TV’s most-loved detectives. We can’t wait to spend more time on the Island, which is the perfect backdrop for a show that can be as popular as its predecessor.’<br /><br /><a href="https://www.jerseyeveningpost.com/news/2022/06/07/bergerac-series-reboot-due-to-start-filming-in-summer-2023/">https://www.jerseyeveningpost.com/news/2022/06/07/bergerac-series-reboot-due-to-start-filming-in-summer-2023/</a><br /><br /><b>Bergerac set to return to screens with Poldark’s Aidan Turner in frame to play troubled detective<br />3 March 2024<br /></b><br />“The company are ready to go, there are scripts written, they could start filming in the spring for broadcast in November and December of this year,” she said.<br /><br />Westward Studios and Banijay – and the latter’s company BlackLight – have bought back the script from the owners of Paramount and renewed rights to develop the series along with a partnership of other companies.<br /><br />It is thought that another broadcaster, not the BBC, is lined up to bring the series back to screens.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2024/03/03/bergerac-return-aidan-turner-david-tennant-james-norton/">https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2024/03/03/bergerac-return-aidan-turner-david-tennant-james-norton/</a><br /><br /><b>Bergerac set to return to screens with Poldark’s Aidan Turner in frame to play troubled detective</b><br />Reboot of popular Eighties drama based in Jersey set for green light with David Tennant and James Norton also in running to star<br /><br /></div><div><b>Bergerac Coming Back to British Telly With a New Look</b></div><div><br />Bergerac was a stunning success back in the day. From 1981 to 1991, the program pulled in 15 millions viewers on the BBC. It is now, apparently, going to make its comeback via a streaming platform.<br /><br />There has been news about a Bergerac revival for some time. So while it will be difficult to picture a new DS Jim Bergerac, the news that the show could be returning soon will be exciting for fans in the UK. Expats and Americans who are fans of the original 1980s series may have to wait. Hopefully BritBox and/or Acorn TV, or whomever stream the show, will do so in other areas as well.<br /><br />https://mikesfilmtalk.com/2024/03/04/bergerac-coming-back-to-british-telly-with-a-new-look/<br />04/03/2024<br /><br /><b>About Westward Studios<br /></b><br /><a href="https://www.westwardstudios.co.uk/about">https://www.westwardstudios.co.uk/about</a><br /><br />Westward Studios is a Jersey based production company. Set up in 2018 by Producer and Broadcaster Brian Constantine, it operates in the Channel Islands and the UK. The company already has several exciting projects in development – from high end drama to compelling documentaries. Westward has recently partnered with leading production house Blacklight on the exciting re-boot of Bergerac.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3508513/">https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3508513/</a><br /><br />Brian Constantine<br />Channel Report, Presenter 1976<br />The Real Housewives of Jersey, 2020-2021<br /><br /> </div></div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-62171398555467984322024-03-09T01:30:00.001+00:002024-03-09T01:30:00.137+00:00March Tea Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgkQWx0kG3stww2ByGQRbdKioHhgl9sDc6a4nMV0LP78J-puoJlAjIDK3KKYLf_gxRwPDurDi-n49Ur_-XSgIrBuUg1vrOUwarxOLt52zKBWgUv6tlsb58Qdt9DXNMIiPhdesN3xQaUMXHWnB6AeOMtAUiOH4LC2RDxUQZsslgZepXkXcnLyBpE81GrQ0s" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1697" data-original-width="2500" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgkQWx0kG3stww2ByGQRbdKioHhgl9sDc6a4nMV0LP78J-puoJlAjIDK3KKYLf_gxRwPDurDi-n49Ur_-XSgIrBuUg1vrOUwarxOLt52zKBWgUv6tlsb58Qdt9DXNMIiPhdesN3xQaUMXHWnB6AeOMtAUiOH4LC2RDxUQZsslgZepXkXcnLyBpE81GrQ0s" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>March Tea Party <br /></b><br />Through yellow daffodils, walking <br />Alice wondered what was next <br />Hearing in the distance talking <br />Strange words, was perplexed <br /><br />A Hatter at a table, looks quite mad <br />A dormouse, speaking in its sleep <br />A hare foaming at the mouth, so sad <br />A tea party, crockery all in a heap <br /><br />Mad March Hare sitting at the table <br />Eating cake and drinking cups of tea <br />Wide eyed gaze, looks rather unstable <br />Oh dear, thought Alice, time to flee <br /><br />Thought Alice not knowing what to expect <br />“Mad March Tea Party, or so I suspect!”</div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-19030693669670835882024-03-08T01:30:00.035+00:002024-03-08T01:30:00.132+00:00The Grounds of Jersey Zoo -25th Anniversary Brochure<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiybUbRZDKoXHt_hL6YKFGWheZN3bTQ3bYMVAATeA8HkkZe3k8angkX5KESjrXJSXyo_hJULH8ZE53-KYvdKaBSFUy1fjohhKvjc0Jxjp3sKk7ca6XNLRxZxSTrPy0OnndmWFhuWxZE9i1mMhJt-4SEowLSIsxTETLWuvtkLUFlCP-elfkZL9bWHA-Rca4/s437/b0.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="117" data-original-width="437" height="86" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiybUbRZDKoXHt_hL6YKFGWheZN3bTQ3bYMVAATeA8HkkZe3k8angkX5KESjrXJSXyo_hJULH8ZE53-KYvdKaBSFUy1fjohhKvjc0Jxjp3sKk7ca6XNLRxZxSTrPy0OnndmWFhuWxZE9i1mMhJt-4SEowLSIsxTETLWuvtkLUFlCP-elfkZL9bWHA-Rca4/s320/b0.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /></div><div><b>The Grounds of Jersey Zoo -25th Anniversary Brochure</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg97xtY6sfSKp31vgvAvBJLgmkvJwcuR8JnUaAcVWAGy3cTgnHtvSAhs9D6Crv2sROVzQfwfmh3N-G802dEdaelIYtafMNf7wOszXL8-rDyMzCbLNSlQ_q8C5ca04GOs0dtueP_y3LGmZVGCVMqrfeet138SOhmbZ2ncil4HYcnRASMhqrt7n7a_jYiDyU/s584/b2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="318" data-original-width="584" height="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg97xtY6sfSKp31vgvAvBJLgmkvJwcuR8JnUaAcVWAGy3cTgnHtvSAhs9D6Crv2sROVzQfwfmh3N-G802dEdaelIYtafMNf7wOszXL8-rDyMzCbLNSlQ_q8C5ca04GOs0dtueP_y3LGmZVGCVMqrfeet138SOhmbZ2ncil4HYcnRASMhqrt7n7a_jYiDyU/s320/b2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /><b><br /></b></div><div>It seems the most natural thing in the world that the grounds of Jersey Zoo should be beautifully landscaped and that individual cages should be planted with attractive plants. <br /><br />But by no means all zoos have this approach, many preferring bare cages, concrete and dusty paths. Jersey Zoo has led the way in landscape environmentalism. <br /><br />But attractive landscaping has been an essential part of Jersey Zoo’s policy since the late 1960s and under the guidance of a landscape committee, major work was carried out during the 1970s. <br /><br />A decision was taken to create a park-like environment, rather than more costly formal gardens, with groves of trees and lawns sweeping down to the lakes. <br /><br />Wherever possible flora and fauna are married together, a prime example being the waIlaby enclosure, which features Australasian eucalyptus and birds from ’down under’. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQ4yuccD4QrCktYNs3snB79XJ6QhjxYUdjeUvJkBdJ0kxm5M5vR0pJn7bOeKOPuBKFfdZ67jwBe2SP2P1de6CJVIyTo4-qM_o42JnjhssgTDPkxajkh06nghBolaOWpeXXQQ3gAezWJo-3ZWx-no-uiQtS1bEi30S6fACjIUi5dNIveakrgysdMVbRf0/s594/b1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="329" data-original-width="594" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQ4yuccD4QrCktYNs3snB79XJ6QhjxYUdjeUvJkBdJ0kxm5M5vR0pJn7bOeKOPuBKFfdZ67jwBe2SP2P1de6CJVIyTo4-qM_o42JnjhssgTDPkxajkh06nghBolaOWpeXXQQ3gAezWJo-3ZWx-no-uiQtS1bEi30S6fACjIUi5dNIveakrgysdMVbRf0/s320/b1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br />The majority of the landscaping has now been done and it is a question of ensuring that the grounds are well maintained and all the plants are kept in good order, said Zoo director Jeremy Mallinson. <br /><br />“The grounds are now looking magnificent and we are seeing the benefits of long term planning as they mature. I am very proud of the culmination of what was planned. Attention to detail is important in the planning, not only of an attractive landscape between major animal houses, but of attractive enclosures for the animals themselves.” <br /><br />“No matter how well you look after the animals it is important to give them a good environment”, said Mr Mallinson. <br /><br />Nowhere is this more obvious than in the reptile house and the bird aviaries, the mammals tending to be less appreciative of such efforts and liable to ruin any attempt at an attractive display.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYnPkR-kOWzPvWhSnJqei9saR2CZ6JrnowZEVc8nf8xiaDX_HbcXSBAvwReyFIUCHp8QHKEjaoLoB6IBU9jIJFrUWa0wwxNVQicq9txroxMwUbgBEKFj0VG6GOfTisakM3YJWEGT6GDbvIZhaYZryYu3StqcckdusZXbI_l4zdmtWrdX_82211avigoTs/s917/b3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="460" data-original-width="917" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYnPkR-kOWzPvWhSnJqei9saR2CZ6JrnowZEVc8nf8xiaDX_HbcXSBAvwReyFIUCHp8QHKEjaoLoB6IBU9jIJFrUWa0wwxNVQicq9txroxMwUbgBEKFj0VG6GOfTisakM3YJWEGT6GDbvIZhaYZryYu3StqcckdusZXbI_l4zdmtWrdX_82211avigoTs/s320/b3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <br /><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Maintenance of the animal enclosures on a day-to-day basis is done by the individual staff, although there is a head gardener, Mark Williams, and three groundsmen with overall responsibility for the Zoo’s appearance.</div><div><br /></div><div>This requires a high calibre of staff, who are interested not only in the birds and animals in their care but in the controlled environment being provided for them. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizUAcjKe9KiWzR4eweWiEBZOcq6JOoK-TpD22eezyVKeoGvkiAQPeZKGx7BIHFFbRcsd9xHEGmhRi8d4rua6FKhQ6VCrcp_7yDfmrNFDDz-KmZwN53mgr39j4xtFiy8bPdhhit1M_KW8wstQoK0s2fEQfqT9zolg6n5A0PpS2cSrKOqu7aC3LeNlN-Tmc/s493/b4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="468" data-original-width="493" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizUAcjKe9KiWzR4eweWiEBZOcq6JOoK-TpD22eezyVKeoGvkiAQPeZKGx7BIHFFbRcsd9xHEGmhRi8d4rua6FKhQ6VCrcp_7yDfmrNFDDz-KmZwN53mgr39j4xtFiy8bPdhhit1M_KW8wstQoK0s2fEQfqT9zolg6n5A0PpS2cSrKOqu7aC3LeNlN-Tmc/s320/b4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br />“It is very important that they are proud of what they are doing”, says Mr Mallinson. “A sterile environment is very depressing.” <br /><br />Usually the public appreciate the efforts, too, and many remark on the attractive nature of the animal enclosures and the zoo as a whole, but sometimes it is possible to walk past a row of bird aviaries and think there is nothing in them. <br /><br />But pause for five minutes to admire the attractive plant displays and it is almost certain that you will see every bird, perhaps partly hidden, but enjoying the pleasant surroundings.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LU8q382iF_JwXlwS8wc5NL6iMhlujWGC_S_YCb8OOmcrhNNPS3So9XAdzYnpOcRnR_r__MQzZ_MPjmWnq6dfUTd94uES9hmvdNadCe6Wo_mAxw9NP1NGo4vlfc6pqctCjSHPWGKQdxi51YGPRKZraQwCIAzVzq0lji3uXsmeRTbtRYCHTb36HJVsB_U/s682/b5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="439" data-original-width="682" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LU8q382iF_JwXlwS8wc5NL6iMhlujWGC_S_YCb8OOmcrhNNPS3So9XAdzYnpOcRnR_r__MQzZ_MPjmWnq6dfUTd94uES9hmvdNadCe6Wo_mAxw9NP1NGo4vlfc6pqctCjSHPWGKQdxi51YGPRKZraQwCIAzVzq0lji3uXsmeRTbtRYCHTb36HJVsB_U/s320/b5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-73390366390503799522024-03-01T01:30:00.028+00:002024-03-02T12:13:14.048+00:00A Saint of Lame ducks<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMMn4j4v0IXGaM-BWLprGX2wRo-1n8NEIu3sJUfTlXQ7Jde8ySgLd2QYA34FO8zdBWPjirDWqrdux29D5ZY_ZalbLC1ZpS_fghMLTRSHMidkv4kRmuyX19j6aqgCKxJOeOMg2kLuYKJJGLZQ8aXuQNJJwREu25XUKDs3g97JM8vPNUWJFksTUTjcM4Kyk/s2560/adgnipsxqcgggdeisxj4-scaled.webp"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMMn4j4v0IXGaM-BWLprGX2wRo-1n8NEIu3sJUfTlXQ7Jde8ySgLd2QYA34FO8zdBWPjirDWqrdux29D5ZY_ZalbLC1ZpS_fghMLTRSHMidkv4kRmuyX19j6aqgCKxJOeOMg2kLuYKJJGLZQ8aXuQNJJwREu25XUKDs3g97JM8vPNUWJFksTUTjcM4Kyk/s320/adgnipsxqcgggdeisxj4-scaled.webp" /></a><br /><br /><br />My mother, as we used to say "collected lame ducks". I was reading John Major's biography and his mother did the same. Those in need of solace, of friendship, the lonely - she made them welcome. She also welcomes guests at the hotel where she worked in reception, and when off-duty some would walk down, pop in for cakes and tea and a chat, which she loved, of course. <div><br /></div><div>There was the young lad from the hotel up the road - his first job, and not many his own age, and she invited him down - we had a shared love of the old Universal Black and White movies, and that was nice. The other receptionist who pranged their car, and was in shock, and needed some comfort. The alcoholic doorman at the hotel across the road was also given tea and sympathy from time to time. The gardener was offered for his family for a week's holiday, and somehow we coped. </div><div><br /></div><div>And also she popped round to the neighbours, to make sure they were ok, to chat, and drink tea - or sometimes sherry. I don't think people know their neighbours all that well today. </div><div><br /></div><div>Not all those recipients of her kindness were lame ducks, but some certainly were, and kindness to others, and to the stranger too, was a lesson I have not forgotten. She now is in care, and alas her memory is fading fast, so it is up to others to remember how kind she was to others, and visit some portion of that kindness back to her.<br /><br /><b>A Saint of Lame ducks <br /></b><br />Tea and sympathy, that’s what they say:<br />But she did so much more, in yesterday;<br />Lonely, without friends, welcomed in:<br />Didn’t matter they were not our kin;<br />Lame ducks, those in need of cheer,<br />And perhaps the odd wine or beer;<br />And hotel guests, came for cups of tea,<br />In her garden, chatting beneath a tree;<br />Our gardener from Lisbon, also friend:<br />His family invited to stay, never an end <br />To hospitality. Visited the neighbours <br />In addition to her own work and labours;<br />Kindness to the stranger, especially so:<br />A cool stream, never ceasing to flow;<br />Refresh the weary, the tired, the sad:<br />I remember those days, and I am glad;<br />Now she needs care, friendly chats,<br />Photos of her family, her beloved cats;<br />Sometimes afraid, and sometimes lost:<br />Time to return kindness, without cost;<br />Remember times past, the lame ducks,<br />As shadows lengthens, in time’s flux;<br />That glorious summer before the fall:<br />Welcome always, come one, come all!<div><br /></div></div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-57356412732053154632024-03-01T01:30:00.020+00:002024-03-01T01:30:00.138+00:00Jersey Zoo 25th Anniversary – Senior Staff Part 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPFUr0V74KeKUpc3xzG4Pomcrf7JLL4Rot-U3gZyzFlGX4pgdy7fXlnz8fApesTO-Qz05FXP2pcV7PCkzbOtF8FEwKhN_lnQsKCuhKh7mPe-PlNtjkfWtHBiW2x1iL4brDKtFjXxxBpcY6kdZstUyql_1d5NE4RYD6WRsL4G3PVdHE19eKKUfrT6ttwI/s320/a0.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="47" data-original-width="320" height="47" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPFUr0V74KeKUpc3xzG4Pomcrf7JLL4Rot-U3gZyzFlGX4pgdy7fXlnz8fApesTO-Qz05FXP2pcV7PCkzbOtF8FEwKhN_lnQsKCuhKh7mPe-PlNtjkfWtHBiW2x1iL4brDKtFjXxxBpcY6kdZstUyql_1d5NE4RYD6WRsL4G3PVdHE19eKKUfrT6ttwI/s320/a0.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> Jersey Zoo is fortunate to have a dedicated staff. without whom its results would not be nearly so impressive as they have been.<br /><br />Some of them have been with the zoo for many years and here some of the longest serving and senior staff members are featured<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRpRXv32d77SAWv3xOhrFOVLjUbvojp5MxkQhcBXVQamVunc6-X_TNLUS2c_XoHY-5whVGPVUTj7SQpDfCoXkrKTQ8tfZeiP-9GgIBP7Gv3i5f-MGaUkUF62Hqr9ILhdzHGdB5Tw2gCnyqrZY-SuNsV0aa7jotasN4QW7-bYJ2d0-5WWie8dY6JkA48mA/s348/a5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="348" data-original-width="272" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRpRXv32d77SAWv3xOhrFOVLjUbvojp5MxkQhcBXVQamVunc6-X_TNLUS2c_XoHY-5whVGPVUTj7SQpDfCoXkrKTQ8tfZeiP-9GgIBP7Gv3i5f-MGaUkUF62Hqr9ILhdzHGdB5Tw2gCnyqrZY-SuNsV0aa7jotasN4QW7-bYJ2d0-5WWie8dY6JkA48mA/s320/a5.JPG" width="250" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><b>Phillip Coffey — Education Officer </b><br /><br />Phillip Coffey wanted to work outdoors when he graduated from Portsmouth College of Technology and although most zoos turned him down as ”over qualified” he became Jersey Zoo's first graduate keeper. <br /><br />While he was waiting for his interview, Oscar, the mischievous male Bornean orang utan broke out from his cage and a year later he was to take over responsibilities for the great ape section and Oscar, with whom he developed a special relationship. <br /><br />He held this position for nine years and then began to develop two new interests — the school groups visiting the zoo and photography. <br /><br />He resigned to attend a one-year teacher training course in Exeter and during his absence the Jersey Education Department agreed to provide a grant for an education officer at the Zoo and he was offered and accepted the post. <br /><br />He hopes that Jersey teachers now see a visit to the Zoo as more than a day out — more as an integral part of a course of study. <br /><br />Phillip is concerned and actively involved with the design, presentation and variety of education aids around the zoo and with the successful volunteer guide service, for which he selects and trains the guides. <br /><br />He is also editor of the trust’s newsletter for its junior members, the Dodo Dispatch. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo8GEtgTe-dShc-sSYJsf7JGPsFMRpFT70QZklzAJAmMDTr4ConzqqQ1CBOoC1Ah93VrN6XpwvxPBkXpslREVoShFO4eyjobwBGDlEF8wAtvnKuPX7HHwSWuoZLGXnMkM0cG67WujZALishcaeRGfMB9w9xi7D_HhwYB9glLqRVokErajkefMKhReRzbQ/s323/a6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="323" data-original-width="275" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo8GEtgTe-dShc-sSYJsf7JGPsFMRpFT70QZklzAJAmMDTr4ConzqqQ1CBOoC1Ah93VrN6XpwvxPBkXpslREVoShFO4eyjobwBGDlEF8wAtvnKuPX7HHwSWuoZLGXnMkM0cG67WujZALishcaeRGfMB9w9xi7D_HhwYB9glLqRVokErajkefMKhReRzbQ/s320/a6.JPG" width="272" /></a></div><br /><div><b>Betty Renouf— Administrator <br /></b><br />Betty Renouf, then 15, joined Jersey Zoo as office junior in 1962. <br /><br />”It was everything but,” she says. ”I painted cages, collected calves and even had to man the aquarium paybox, entrance 6d a head, which was a table outside what is now the staff kitchen, piled high with Mars Bars and sweets.” <br /><br />There was a hare living in the office ("I think we just called it Hare”) and Celebes Apes regularly jumped up and down on her typewriter. <br /><br />On one- occasion Betty recalls arriving back from town with Cathy Weller, then administrator, to meet Cholmondley and Sheena, the two full-grown chimpanzees, walking out of the reptile house hand in hand. <br /><br />Betty remembers making a run for it with Cholmondley’s nose pressed up against the opposite car window which had been hastily wound up. <br /><br />She can also remember clearly when Pedro, the spectacled bear, escaped and headed straight for her window, through which he gazed at her adoringly until being rounded up. To this day she is very concerned that all windows remain securely fastened. <br /><br />She does all the buying for the zoo shop and is greatly looking forward to the planned new visitor entrance and shop. <br /><br />Most important of all to the staff, she does the wages, and is naturally careful with money having lived through the days when it was almost impossible to pay the bills.</div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-3810811703511482012024-02-24T01:30:00.010+00:002024-02-24T01:30:00.133+00:00Mortality Visible<div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFZb4_qzcMVtuB2h7movEWcY9uLnBZ0-JSogHP1N2Wt8iqbJjjLzvJShxA08iiY_EcGM6YJrlKN8gCLAGUybRj7bnsAJ2JoqAIwu7kmpAxlWvaxJ4u3pUQ1K_n0nq0FccEKLT9qo929jpv6D4clzCgPeLIa8oWLtWLM3R4LetDKdjo-qnf_3iOVrBPT40/s1200/NTII_BEH_509829-001.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFZb4_qzcMVtuB2h7movEWcY9uLnBZ0-JSogHP1N2Wt8iqbJjjLzvJShxA08iiY_EcGM6YJrlKN8gCLAGUybRj7bnsAJ2JoqAIwu7kmpAxlWvaxJ4u3pUQ1K_n0nq0FccEKLT9qo929jpv6D4clzCgPeLIa8oWLtWLM3R4LetDKdjo-qnf_3iOVrBPT40/w310-h320/NTII_BEH_509829-001.jpg" width="310" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Mortality Visible <br /></b><br />Foolishness reigns, no more the wise <br />In darkness, unseen, hid from our eyes <br />And hatred, and fear, rules all our days <br />Darkest charisma, a leader gains praise. <br /><br />No resting, no calm, but noise in the night <br />As fire from heaven, a warfare of might <br />Drones, like the hornets, high soaring above <br />And lost is the hope, of goodness and love. <br /><br />Praying for peace, the pathways of light <br />An opening of eyes, not veiling our sight; <br />Bring justice and mercy, O help us to see <br />Before ending of days, for you and for me</div><div><br /></div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-35002059287713886972024-02-23T01:30:00.004+00:002024-02-23T08:33:33.196+00:001974 - 50 years ago - February Part 2<div class="separator"><a href="https://cdn.generalblue.com/calendar/1974-calendar-portrait-sunday-start-612x792.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://cdn.generalblue.com/calendar/1974-calendar-portrait-sunday-start-612x792.webp" width="247" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> 1974 - 50 years ago - February Part 2<br /><br />16—Travel firms could soon control nearly ten per cent of Jersey's tourist beds—either by direct ownership at hotels or by arrangements which give them exclusive use of establishments. In recent months at least half a dozen premises have been bought by tour operators and the trend is expected to accelerate as travel firms see their competitors acquiring more beds in the Island. <br /><br />17.—-A 59-year-old Frenchman. M. Jean Robic, was found dead at the foot of a staircase at his home at Maufant this evening. He appeared to have fallen down the stairs and hit his head on a. windowsill. It is likely than an inquest will be held. <br /><br />18.-—Miss Maud Ogier, BA (Loud). a former mistress at the Jersey College for Girls and now living at St. Martin was 100 today. <br /><br />19 .—Jersey’s first outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease for nearly 17 years was officially confirmed late this morning, and as a result the whole Island has been declared an infected area. The confirmation came after a further clinical examination of the ten animals—nine cows and a yearling bull—at Mr. Harold Vibert’s farm at Woodlands St.Ouen. <br /><br />20.—No further outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease have been reported since ten animals were slaughtered and buried at Mr. Harold Vibert’s farm, Woodlands, St. Ouen yesterday afternoon. But severe restrictions on the movement of all animals are being put into operation. Jersey Zoo at Augrés Manor, Trinity, has been closed for a week as a precaution. <br /><br />21.—Poker games allegedly for high stakes at the premises known as The Millionaires on the Weighbridge led to the appearance in the dock at the Police Court this morning of Christopher Michael Georgiou (29), a native of Cyprus. He pleaded guilty to the offences against the Gambling Law and was remanded on £200 bail until next Thursday. The accused was brought back to Court this afternoon and the Magistrate was told that there was a warrant out in the UK under the Theft Act for his arrest. The Magistrate withdrew bail and ordered remand in custody. <br /><br />22.—The publicity campaign to recruit youth leaders has successfully reached the target set by the Jersey Youth Movement in less than three weeks. Over 90 volunteers have contacted Youth Adviser Mr. Tom Keir Hardie as potential helpers to boost the Island’s “ Open ” clubs and uniformed organizations. <br /><br />23.—Work is expected to start this autumn on new buildings to house two expanding educational departments at Victoria College. The more futuristic of the schemes is a two-storey octagonal music and drama centre which will be sited between the Howard Davis Hall and the recently completed science block. The other new department will be a six-form centre, which together with the new junior changing rooms, will involve the rebuilding of an existing part or the main college. <br /><br />25.—No further outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease. have been reported, but Department of Agriculture officials stress that there must be no relaxation of controls for at least another two weeks. <br /><br />26.——Jersey’s chief immigration officer Mr. Alan Le Brun and Mrs. Daphne Minihane were at Buckingham Palace today to receive from the Queen Mother the insignia of the Order of the British Empire awarded them in the New Year Honours. Mr. Le Brun was made OBE and Mrs. Minihane was made a Member of the Order in recognition of her services to the community. <br /><br />27.—-The Jersey Unit of the Sea Cadet Corps is again the top unit in the whole of the British Isles. This morning, their Commanding Officer, Lt.-Cdr. DE Allo, RNR, was informed that the unit has been awarded the Canada Trophy which they last held in 1970. <br /><br />28.-—-When fire broke out early this morning in a second-floor at the Grand Hotel on the Esplanade, the 66-year-old occupant, a company director, said to be a " sick man ”. was fortunate to escape with minor burns.<p></p></div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-13935289712017189742024-02-17T01:30:00.003+00:002024-02-17T09:31:56.270+00:00The War Zone<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIJlKL9FHnyMIADNf-RNr9DSro9bZiH-8okJe4AXbTrdvbvPi_w8y7Ahwt6JXrtRkrmpQ_bSmx4KfLomeO7x6P5sAa8KX88p4PnQdxAYro061Go1c7isx8ghjG9wuTZjvTwUual-pgn041uVN1n-abgwy-RKPtT0jHBXtV1Usf_IAH6LMrgcL09SIrL-k/s1024/mdf01hfccu7a1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIJlKL9FHnyMIADNf-RNr9DSro9bZiH-8okJe4AXbTrdvbvPi_w8y7Ahwt6JXrtRkrmpQ_bSmx4KfLomeO7x6P5sAa8KX88p4PnQdxAYro061Go1c7isx8ghjG9wuTZjvTwUual-pgn041uVN1n-abgwy-RKPtT0jHBXtV1Usf_IAH6LMrgcL09SIrL-k/s320/mdf01hfccu7a1.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>An acrostic for a change today.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The War Zone <br /></b><br />Pray for the children, their torn lives <br />Ruined by the war. Who survives <br />And lives is a throw of the dice, chance: <br />Yet day by day more die, a macabre dance; <br />Fight the good fight, but this is not that: <br />Once a proper justification, lost in diktat; <br />Revenge is now the meal, eaten hot: <br />Careless leaders stir hatred in the pot; <br />Every day a child is wounded, or dies, <br />And a deaf world cannot hear the cries; <br />Such is political expediency, not to hear <br />Every mother weeping, every last tear; <br />Fear stalks the land, and peace is vain: <br />Incessant drones fall as deadly rain, <br />Reach into the towns, bringing pain; <br />Every time a ceasefire is asked, “No!” <br />Is the answer, fighting on, blow by blow; <br />Neither side are leaders prepared to talk: <br />Gaza battered, ruins, yet still they baulk, <br />And more die, the suffering innocent; <br />Zone of death, a straight path bent: <br />And now a call for peace in Lent.</div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-88965762509621960562024-02-16T01:30:00.016+00:002024-02-16T07:47:54.930+00:001974 - 50 years ago - February Part 1<div class="separator"><a href="https://cdn.generalblue.com/calendar/1974-calendar-portrait-sunday-start-612x792.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://cdn.generalblue.com/calendar/1974-calendar-portrait-sunday-start-612x792.webp" width="309" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> 1974 - 50 years ago - February Part 1<br /><br />FEBRUARY <br /><br />1.— People who don’t. bother to get back their deposits by returning soft drinks bottles are causing the local industry a. massive headache. Drink manufacturers, faced with a. severe bottle shortage. are trying to ease the problem and are launching a “ bring back the bottle” campaign aimed at getting the containers back to their source for re-use. It is also good for the environment. <br /><br />2.——A total of 34,900 Vehicles of all types are now licensed for Jersey’s roads—about 1,000 more than at the end or January last year. <br /><br />4.—-Thirty-four hours, 1,404 swimmers and 9,561 laps (just under 400 miles) all added up at the weekend to a record fundraising swimmathon for the Lions Club of Jersey. The total raised was £14,604 which appropriately is £1,974 more than was raised at the 1973 swimarathon. <br /><br />5.—-The Establishment Committee, in conjunction with the Bailiff, Sir Robert Le Masurier, has appointed Mr. Graham Huelin to the post of Bailiff’s secretary. He will succeed Mr. George Cutland. who is retiring at the end of May. <br /><br />6.—-—The Defence Committee are still not satisfied with the fuel saving efforts being made by Island motorists, although the overall cutback in consumption up to January 30 was approximately ten per cent for all fuels. The Committee reminded motorists that it was still essential to exercise restraint in the use of motor spirit, to avoid unnecessary journeys, and where possible, to share transport. <br /><br />7.-——It will be some weeks yet before the public will have a chance to see what is proposed for the future of the Fort Regent pleasure complex. The report on its future, which was commissioned months, ago from Penin Associates, is still being studied by the Fort Regent Development Committee. <br /><br />8.— Local‘ veterinary surgeons today warned dog owners to have their pets vaccinated against distemper. The warning was issued after between 20 and 25 cases of the disease had been reported during the last three weeks. Although these are the first cases for some 15 years it is stressed that the current outbreak is no way an epidemic. <br /><br />9—Rough seas and winds gusting to gale force caused chaos on Jersey’s low-lying south coast this morning when they combined with a 39 ft high tide. For more than an hour parts of the coast roads, from La Grande Charriere through the Dicq and Havre des Pas and from Gloucester Street right along to St. Aubin. were flooded and closed to traffic. ‘ <br /><br />11.—This morning's high tide combined with gale-force winds from the south to cause some of the worst damage on exposed south coast areas in many years. Hardest hit was Gorey, where the harbour took the full force of the storm and a number at boats were wrecked. Tens of thousands of pounds worth of damage was caused at Gorey in what was described by a veteran fisherman as “ the worst storm in living memory ”. The occupants of two sea-lashed cottages at Gorey say they were afraid to sleep in their homes tonight because of the possibility of more serious damage. <br /><br />12.-—The price of a gallon of petrol in Jersey rose by 8p at midnight last night. This will mean that motorists will now have to pay between 36p and 39p per gallon depending on the grade. Fuel Supplies Ltd., who distribute Shell and HP, and Base Petroleum confirmed this morning that the up increases announced in the UK yesterday would automatically take effect in Jersey. <br /><br />13.-—-The new spring flower stamp issue on sale today is selling well despite the fact that for the first time we are being restricted to buying only one sheet or each of the four stamps. <br /><br />15.——The Education Committee have, decided that the eastern secondary school to be built on a site at St. Clement is to be named Le Rocquier. ‘<p></p></div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-65504010773064192592024-02-10T00:44:00.003+00:002024-02-10T00:44:14.377+00:00Oblivion<div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIn8cKWUor8hfji6AvPPyAGHcFsRxVYcXg3VVd_4k5gN2qrXGa25k0L2QgDjq2PxlJyQUvvEmXDvvW7GdJVKRr97lrlJBsewe0CcvTd7ALNo_6Cr9Tkmr_Em-x22KZSigLZJA1HnhpdcslJiC1o6TEIEdqsfS08o-tusv_U_sENXSC5X3VVge_QTUnSvU/s1200/3653.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIn8cKWUor8hfji6AvPPyAGHcFsRxVYcXg3VVd_4k5gN2qrXGa25k0L2QgDjq2PxlJyQUvvEmXDvvW7GdJVKRr97lrlJBsewe0CcvTd7ALNo_6Cr9Tkmr_Em-x22KZSigLZJA1HnhpdcslJiC1o6TEIEdqsfS08o-tusv_U_sENXSC5X3VVge_QTUnSvU/s320/3653.webp" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>One from the back catalogue, from 31st October 2006. A meditation on death</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Oblivion</b></div><div><br />We will all die, as water spilled<br />On the ground. Our end fulfilled<br />In the deepest sleep, in the dark:<br />No morning, no sound of the lark,<br />In that land of silence. In a grave<br />All are equal, the weak and brave,<br />Those poor and rich, together they<br />Go forth into darkness, and no day<br />Dawns there, the world of the dead;<br />Even the king will lie on a sickbed,<br />And die one day, and know nothing;<br />It is the land of silence, none to sing,<br />The land of dust, an empty sound,<br />Women without children, dry ground<br />That needs rain, and a fire that burns<br />Out of control: ashes placed in urns;<br />The eternal ruins of ancient times,<br />Those forgotten, as we hear chimes<br />At midnight, the company of dead,<br />Of all now spoken, now is unsaid,<br />Until the last word. A word goes<br />Out, healing the sick, all the woes<br />Of the world, all injustice taken,<br />And death destroyed, and then<br />All will be changed, made new:<br />Morning dawns again, fresh dew,<br />And the sun rising as never before,<br />Shows a new world, an open door;<br />Then the mists are melting away,<br />With birdsong breaks a new day. </div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-45627696062733923842024-02-09T01:30:00.027+00:002024-02-09T01:30:00.253+00:00Jersey Zoo 25th Anniversary – Senior Staff Part 2<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPFUr0V74KeKUpc3xzG4Pomcrf7JLL4Rot-U3gZyzFlGX4pgdy7fXlnz8fApesTO-Qz05FXP2pcV7PCkzbOtF8FEwKhN_lnQsKCuhKh7mPe-PlNtjkfWtHBiW2x1iL4brDKtFjXxxBpcY6kdZstUyql_1d5NE4RYD6WRsL4G3PVdHE19eKKUfrT6ttwI/s320/a0.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPFUr0V74KeKUpc3xzG4Pomcrf7JLL4Rot-U3gZyzFlGX4pgdy7fXlnz8fApesTO-Qz05FXP2pcV7PCkzbOtF8FEwKhN_lnQsKCuhKh7mPe-PlNtjkfWtHBiW2x1iL4brDKtFjXxxBpcY6kdZstUyql_1d5NE4RYD6WRsL4G3PVdHE19eKKUfrT6ttwI/s320/a0.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Jersey Zoo is fortunate to have a dedicated staff. without whom its results would not be nearly so impressive as they have been.<br /><br />Some of them have been with the zoo for many years and here some of the longest serving and senior staff members are featured<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMRVAAVdEeZtABKj_OkAXM-id1w55i8vTG59TIYLIa1XhppXhCpCrGFgzdMLLaGVmN9Y_nF6_Vo1FKiYL41J18igfhsxx2zT9OO2H1kIn_j8gmWNirvr69bzCEsRKaJVHrcWGClzbLGSTUGSfaL0cCBHFXxr5HxGi9Nk-OdC0FAadIlGUiD44n34jvyCg/s395/a3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="270" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMRVAAVdEeZtABKj_OkAXM-id1w55i8vTG59TIYLIa1XhppXhCpCrGFgzdMLLaGVmN9Y_nF6_Vo1FKiYL41J18igfhsxx2zT9OO2H1kIn_j8gmWNirvr69bzCEsRKaJVHrcWGClzbLGSTUGSfaL0cCBHFXxr5HxGi9Nk-OdC0FAadIlGUiD44n34jvyCg/s320/a3.JPG" width="219" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b><br />Simon Hicks — Trust Secretary <br /></b><br />After a distinguished career in the army, Simon Hicks was, in his own words ”Struck by a bolt as a result of the most extra-ordinary process of luck and opportunity”. He was staying with George Adamson, under Mount Kenya, in what is now the Meru Reserve. His task was to help drill the new game wardens in the skills of ambush control for poachers. Finding himself on the same level as some of the most impressive forms of wildlife, he decided there and then that he would do something associated with wildlife. <br /><br />On returning to England he studied for a Certificate in Field Biology while working in a variety of jobs, such as game keeping, forestry, and farming. After a number of years as an RSPB Warden and a warden on Exmoor, Simon became Director of The British Trust for Conservation. He led a group of Conservation Volunteers on a field task to the Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust where he met Gerald Durrell. (He also proposed to the cook who happened to be his former secretary and they subsequently got married.) <br /><br />Three and a half years later he was summoned to Jersey by Gerald Durrell who offered Simon the position of Zoological Co-ordinator. Arriving on the fortuitous date of April 1, 1976, one of his first tasks was to look at the Adoption Scheme which had been running for some time but was only 10 per cent effective. The end result was a scheme that was more than 90 per cent effective. This now brings in an annual sum in excess of £14,000 which helps to pay much of the Zoo’s food bills. <br /><br />Another innovation introduced by Simon was the SAFE appeal (Save Animals From Extinction). With its emotive yet descriptive title it raises £12,000 to £14,000 a year. This money is used to pay for specific items in selected breeding programmes. <br /><br />Now, as Trust Secretary, Simon is a great believer in setting up working groups (particularly with volunteers) which he can co-ordinate. This presents a wonderful opportunity for the trust as a captive breeding centre to become more effective in its conservation work. <br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt_gaAQydBhPqenVFxvdCftDpuzqmZMLdgwZvdBUaKLuYZ4ktEE_OLTyJiZ2Mgyxy7gyCxI8WgiWEemrHD8vO-e9-euUwqWLdZ4G1f4tSlBf5HjFEDxsel0kU-mGL5XgVYJiaYiYuF2dAwtNv4rbrt1m7YVixmmz-YHHBFDDFMu09vWIYb1A4fYAPe9ck/s395/a4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="280" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt_gaAQydBhPqenVFxvdCftDpuzqmZMLdgwZvdBUaKLuYZ4ktEE_OLTyJiZ2Mgyxy7gyCxI8WgiWEemrHD8vO-e9-euUwqWLdZ4G1f4tSlBf5HjFEDxsel0kU-mGL5XgVYJiaYiYuF2dAwtNv4rbrt1m7YVixmmz-YHHBFDDFMu09vWIYb1A4fYAPe9ck/s320/a4.JPG" width="227" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>David Jeggo - Associate Curator of Birds <br /></b><br />David's ambition to work in a Zoo goes back to early childhood and shortly after leaving school in 1970, his lucky break came when he started work at Jersey Zoo. After an initial period as general relief keeper, he was able to follow his principal interests of working with birds. <br /><br />Now the associate curator, David sees his role as a co-ordinator of the bird section and its staff of six. <br /><br />Over the years, he has seen a reduction in the number of species in the collection (There are now about 42) with more individuals of each (about 400). There has been an increased specialisation, particularly with the main breeding programmes for species such as the pink pigeon, Rodrigues fody, St. Lucia parrot and Rothschild’s mynah. <br /><br />The Trust first became involved with the St. Lucia parrot in 1974 and a year later David conducted a field survey to assess the needs for conservation measures. With the co-operation of the St. Lucia Government he secured enough fledgling birds to establish a captive breeding programme. <br /><br />In August 1980, Hurricane Allen hit St. Lucia causing much damage to the forest and to the island in general. The Government immediately asked David to return to assess the effect of the damage on the parrots followed by a census in 1982. <br /><br />With his experience of parrots, David represents the trust as secretary of the International Captive Breeding Consortium for the St. Vincent parrot, established in 1980. <br /><br />David also played an integral part in the breeding programme for the pink pigeon, culminating in the release of birds into the wild in Mauritius. <br /><br />For the future, David feels that genetic considerations will play on increasing part in the management of threatened species. Also it will be important to enlarge the breeding programmes by involving other zoological collections.</div></div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-43761596624010581322024-02-08T00:10:00.001+00:002024-02-08T08:19:03.109+00:00Talking Pictures TV - A crime to miss these shows<div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh66fwWOyULhXwHBD6Ell2Kww1hWnHFdGpl6wKEm9YB0ce_cT1EGfp9joF8Xtk2Sg-Tke8b24-pji4ckxnBOZImP4ydM59wnQw9AGZzu7AD71PIEGLB3JIF2X06VXjxFpojoiWERgw7IoB8tH3HfHIaP5zHREn6sHvo-oIN9eNOT0A0M9Iy4BKc_KzAmJs/s500/artworks-000019338980-6qfkhl-t500x500.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh66fwWOyULhXwHBD6Ell2Kww1hWnHFdGpl6wKEm9YB0ce_cT1EGfp9joF8Xtk2Sg-Tke8b24-pji4ckxnBOZImP4ydM59wnQw9AGZzu7AD71PIEGLB3JIF2X06VXjxFpojoiWERgw7IoB8tH3HfHIaP5zHREn6sHvo-oIN9eNOT0A0M9Iy4BKc_KzAmJs/w200-h200/artworks-000019338980-6qfkhl-t500x500.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Talking Pictures are currently showing Dixon of Dock Green, from the early surviving episodes in the 1950s. The quality of picture is sometimes a bit grainy, but watchable, and it has subtitles. I grew up with Dixon as a staple of Saturday nights, so it is really good to see it again. <div><br /></div><div>Subtitles are great if your hearing is none too good, and Talking Pictures has more and more shows with subtitles, including those below.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRRpq8rR9C40pok14bsxnh1g7-DRsiOkBSIzqeOqFb2pWmVl3jvFYaJNSaNSM5rwrqLRah_hMFscRr-GYwthhO_75aa0CEn3SrbUYyBNvv14AAgvLXHduDXwp4aQOI-DY9JX6jRkKUcEAAGR96h77vqtqBP1iBrBswzdZVisOGifU4JwdLx1HzB1Fniao/s686/hq720.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="386" data-original-width="686" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRRpq8rR9C40pok14bsxnh1g7-DRsiOkBSIzqeOqFb2pWmVl3jvFYaJNSaNSM5rwrqLRah_hMFscRr-GYwthhO_75aa0CEn3SrbUYyBNvv14AAgvLXHduDXwp4aQOI-DY9JX6jRkKUcEAAGR96h77vqtqBP1iBrBswzdZVisOGifU4JwdLx1HzB1Fniao/s320/hq720.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I've always enjoyed John Dickson Carr's detective fiction, so it is wonderful to see this series of half hour stories, which I'd never seen before. Some plots are better than others, but Boris Karloff, in a heroic mode for once as the exceptionally clever Colonel March of the Department of Queer Complaints (when that word just meant "odd") is always good in the role. And some plots are very good. Wiki notesL</div><div><br /></div>Colonel March of Scotland Yard is a British television series consisting of a single season of 26 episodes first broadcast in the United States from December 1954 to Spring of 1955. The series premiered on British television on 24 September 1955 on the newly opened ITV London station for the weekends Associated Television. It is based on author <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Dickson_Carr">John Dickson Carr</a>'s (aka Carter Dickson) fictional detective <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colonel_March">Colonel March</a> from his book The Department of Queer Complaints (1940).</div><div><br /></div><div>The producer Hannah Weinstein had worked as a publicist, journalist and campaigner for radical causes
throughout the 1930s and 1940s. She left America in 1950 when the McCarthyite antiCommunist persecution was at its height. She bought the rights to the book and character. Weinstein was involved in every facet of production. She was also notable for her use of blacklisted writers. </div><div><br /></div><div>Historian Dave Mann notes:</div><div><br /></div><div>"Her chief writers on Colonel March, both blacklisted, were Walter Bernstein and Abraham
Polonsky who operated from New York, as Hollywood was too exposed to scrutiny. Together
with another blacklisted writer, Arnold Manoff, they allotted work on the basis of need and
availability. Furthermore, Karloff, a noted Hollywood liberal and founding member of and
negotiator for the Screen Actors Guild, was a lynchpin in the series' development."<br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMscnYfI9vN6g_NCVOWf69vdFq8XMl-IKC25onV8_EGrJBa1LZuvxzh1IzrTTiKyu_7O28FX4D4c4G5HczmUVDb_IV5FSr5Ku9RDhogTk4_cn-qnqLA3xZ7Jxib3JpabxYoCFM_lldaffU82lkFgpe4QA1bAocC2K8Zgw9-xfuH1R4woTf-DEaFfG0WU/s480/hqdefault.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="480" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMscnYfI9vN6g_NCVOWf69vdFq8XMl-IKC25onV8_EGrJBa1LZuvxzh1IzrTTiKyu_7O28FX4D4c4G5HczmUVDb_IV5FSr5Ku9RDhogTk4_cn-qnqLA3xZ7Jxib3JpabxYoCFM_lldaffU82lkFgpe4QA1bAocC2K8Zgw9-xfuH1R4woTf-DEaFfG0WU/s320/hqdefault.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Another new series to me - previously only shown in America, is this series of half hour Sherlock Holmes stories, mostly original but loosely based on some of Conan Doyle's Stories. Ronald Howard is a very engaging Holmes, and there's humour, as well as clever twists. Watson (played by the excellent H.M. Craword) for once is not a buffoon unlike the Nigel Bruce version, and the banter between them is wonderful! A bit of extra information, courtesy of Wikipedia.</div><div><br /></div>Sherlock Holmes was a detective television series syndicated in the autumn of 1954, based on the Sherlock Holmes stories of Arthur Conan Doyle. The 39 half-hour mostly original stories were produced by Sheldon Reynolds and filmed in France by Guild Films, starring <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ronald_Howard_(British_actor)">Ronald Howard</a> (son of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leslie_Howard_(British_actor)">Leslie Howard</a>) as Holmes and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Howard_Marion-Crawford">H. Marion Crawford</a> as Watson. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Archie_Duncan_(actor)">Archie Duncan</a> appeared in many episodes as Inspector Lestrade (and in a few as other characters). Richard Larke, billed as Kenneth Richards, played Sgt. Wilkins in about fifteen episodes. The series' associate producer, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicole_Milinaire">Nicole Milinaire</a>, was one of the first women to attain a senior production role in a television series.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeAQjpLkkHduxi9SBpleHfTfzrFs0EqkK8PsS8J-kI3vzt2qWHfwnU42o1HyONWroriZ-HcTV9sZ-jrW4SVHbKViw-SZLof6b_-c-NMBemvRqgieypw8FUKiPNLAqKVk_rAHeAgBA7KqpR1srA30xo-ZHhv4cNFTQ9cexDQfpo47vTGCpwJeq9teWmdSg/s250/_Edgar_Wallace_Mysteries_.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="190" data-original-width="250" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeAQjpLkkHduxi9SBpleHfTfzrFs0EqkK8PsS8J-kI3vzt2qWHfwnU42o1HyONWroriZ-HcTV9sZ-jrW4SVHbKViw-SZLof6b_-c-NMBemvRqgieypw8FUKiPNLAqKVk_rAHeAgBA7KqpR1srA30xo-ZHhv4cNFTQ9cexDQfpo47vTGCpwJeq9teWmdSg/w320-h243/_Edgar_Wallace_Mysteries_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Also showing are the Edgar Wallace Mysteries which I remember on TV because of the distinctive opening melody, and the slow turning of the bust of Edgar, shrouded in fog (or smoke?). One from Merton Park studies, these are brilliant hour long crime stories, often with a twist, in which actors who became very well known later appear. Wiki notes:</div></div><div><br /></div>The Edgar Wallace Mysteries is a British second-feature film series mainly produced at <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Merton_Park_Studios">Merton Park Studios</a> for Anglo-Amalgamated. There were 48 films in the series, which were released between 1960 and 1965.The series was screened as The Edgar Wallace Mystery Theatre on television in the United States<br /><div><br /></div><div>All these shows are black and white, and apart from Dixon, they were originally filmed, so the definition is very clear. The audio track on all is very good, and as I said above, they all have subtitles. It is also interesting to see two women producers, both of whom predated Verity Lambert at the BBC.</div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-48942729218146603942024-02-03T01:30:00.000+00:002024-02-03T01:30:00.137+00:00The Ancient Springtime <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEIL-ghEQukgVW8GISlkzRmRfxgpuSV7kbLuOBoUGVQj-hPm5D1NUnj5JZ_ynseebjSCg0CCZjuXuOnbT7UbpRiS3e9kASbgPBvyLgcvP2J0P2o-NnBZcziOiPU3o2NXVnBWZPS_aVKju_Q-Ln9Q1RQ-x_xp-K4_EbdN3BWzkBOBJoYKsJhHsyz84ZDLw/s259/download.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEIL-ghEQukgVW8GISlkzRmRfxgpuSV7kbLuOBoUGVQj-hPm5D1NUnj5JZ_ynseebjSCg0CCZjuXuOnbT7UbpRiS3e9kASbgPBvyLgcvP2J0P2o-NnBZcziOiPU3o2NXVnBWZPS_aVKju_Q-Ln9Q1RQ-x_xp-K4_EbdN3BWzkBOBJoYKsJhHsyz84ZDLw/s1600/download.jpeg" width="259" /></a></div><br /><div><br /> <br /><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Ancient Springtime <br /></b><br />The stone circle rises far away <br />The sarsen stones so tall <br />We travel there this very day <br />From Saxon feasting hall <br /><br />This is the day, that tale we tell <br />Of springtime growing near <br />Amidst the winter snow and ice <br />Snowdrops are a sign of cheer <br /><br />The lambing season, signs of joy <br />Time’s wheel in slow spin <br />Brigid pregnant with the sun <br />The seeds of soil begin <br /><br />Now pour the milk upon the soil <br />A charm for me and you <br />The Imbolc ritual once again <br />At time of morning dew</div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-43608941372111497182024-02-02T01:30:00.028+00:002024-02-02T01:30:00.161+00:00Jersey Zoo 25th Anniversary – Senior Staff Part 1<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPFUr0V74KeKUpc3xzG4Pomcrf7JLL4Rot-U3gZyzFlGX4pgdy7fXlnz8fApesTO-Qz05FXP2pcV7PCkzbOtF8FEwKhN_lnQsKCuhKh7mPe-PlNtjkfWtHBiW2x1iL4brDKtFjXxxBpcY6kdZstUyql_1d5NE4RYD6WRsL4G3PVdHE19eKKUfrT6ttwI/s749/a0.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="110" data-original-width="749" height="47" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPFUr0V74KeKUpc3xzG4Pomcrf7JLL4Rot-U3gZyzFlGX4pgdy7fXlnz8fApesTO-Qz05FXP2pcV7PCkzbOtF8FEwKhN_lnQsKCuhKh7mPe-PlNtjkfWtHBiW2x1iL4brDKtFjXxxBpcY6kdZstUyql_1d5NE4RYD6WRsL4G3PVdHE19eKKUfrT6ttwI/s320/a0.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><b>Jersey Zoo 25th Anniversary – Senior Staff Part 1 </b><br /><br />Jersey Zoo is fortunate to have a dedicated staff. without whom its results would not be nearly so impressive as they have been. <br /><br />Some of them have been with the zoo for many years and here some of the longest serving and senior staff members are featured. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0chXnQTZ5erf6y3BdQoy1mLHh7fBARZADVZLo7VM55u6XdkWDWC75KX1xkkx-BCQ59ZiAFJx7Yl2R6ioXPEzYOho3fJB6Twmsjy9h_ezwjSgNtZCLtTp1GkXWohyziz7Mkzi4MlgkzqFKHF1BJ7YVxJzLNbDtYnQU-ZfebX-jpYqPb4y8qtlgeIj_nJY/s416/a1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="416" data-original-width="268" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0chXnQTZ5erf6y3BdQoy1mLHh7fBARZADVZLo7VM55u6XdkWDWC75KX1xkkx-BCQ59ZiAFJx7Yl2R6ioXPEzYOho3fJB6Twmsjy9h_ezwjSgNtZCLtTp1GkXWohyziz7Mkzi4MlgkzqFKHF1BJ7YVxJzLNbDtYnQU-ZfebX-jpYqPb4y8qtlgeIj_nJY/s320/a1.JPG" width="206" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b><br />Nick Lindsay — Curator of Mammals <br /></b><br />Nick Lindsay joined the Trust as a Science graduate in 1975 and became Curator of Mammals with overall responsibility for the mammal collection with a staff of eight in 1979. <br /><br />Since then, Nick has seen an increase in the breeding successes with a number of mammal groups, including the marmosets and tamarins, the hutias, the bats, the lemurs and the apes. <br /><br />Such has been the success with the Jamaican hutia there is a strong possibility that some of them may be released into the wild, since the Zoo’s captive population now stands high enough. <br /><br />Nick has also had the opportunity to see some mammals in the wild. For three months in 1979 he took part in ”Operation Drake” visiting Panama to study the Geoffroy’s tamarin. <br /><br />In an effort to forge closer links with the Primate Research Centre in Brazil Nick accompanied Zoological Director, Jeremy Mallinson on a visit. There he saw several of the rarest members of the primate family, including the golden lion and golden headed tamarins. <br /><br />For the future Nick would like to see a continuation of the Trust’s policy of phasing out the commoner animals and concentrating on those threatened with extinction. <br /><br />Consequently, there would be fewer species but an increased number of individuals. The experience gained with the commoner types could be put to good use with related but rarer species. <br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQF5fTX3CP4C6Ox9q1G-4-1GZij6b27Eq375PHV58piWUyHBxPVz-oT5t1IYRbYZ2edVbzzGikEOkSVXXAJTc_bzJ-lc9nKWc7qP3IY-2Mf8eJx30IEHv8XY8r_UhVQpIhF1wD4xAbpB336UFZ1ebA41QeTUGFpxhyphenhyphenydSNytXmcYUcEj5Kpk0OcN1U2WM/s336/a2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="336" data-original-width="269" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQF5fTX3CP4C6Ox9q1G-4-1GZij6b27Eq375PHV58piWUyHBxPVz-oT5t1IYRbYZ2edVbzzGikEOkSVXXAJTc_bzJ-lc9nKWc7qP3IY-2Mf8eJx30IEHv8XY8r_UhVQpIhF1wD4xAbpB336UFZ1ebA41QeTUGFpxhyphenhyphenydSNytXmcYUcEj5Kpk0OcN1U2WM/s320/a2.JPG" width="256" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Brian Cummins — Quartermaster <br /></b><br />Jerseyman Brian Cummins first visited the Zoo on the day it opened and applied for a iob as an animal keeper, but without success. Three years later he applied again and the then manager turned him down because of his mature age. Not to be deterred, Brian tried again and in 1965 was employed as an odd-job and maintenance handyman. <br /><br />A year later he became van driver and collector of provisions, tasks that he does today. This involve purchasing fruit, buying provisions in town, taking and collecting animals to and from the airport and visiting the local farms. <br /><br />The van that Brian drives is decorated with gorilla motifs leading to jibes such as ”I see you’ve got your mother-in-law with you” or "I wonder where he works”. The van acts as an advertisement as Brian drives around the island and people often ask him to direct them to the Zoo. <br /><br />The acquisition of Les Noyers four years ago gave Brian much better facilities. There is a proper kitchen with a meat preparation area, a store room and a cool-room for fruit. The latter has enabled Brian to adopt a more rational and economical policy of buying fruit and concentrates in bulk, leading to better quality and greater variety.</div></div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-44105368441752623762024-01-28T08:38:00.003+00:002024-01-28T08:38:34.075+00:00Recording of Suicides in JerseyA very informative Q&A from Hansard on the situation in Jersey.<br /><h1 style="color: #392f2b; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 36px; line-height: 41px;"><span id="ctl00_PlaceHolderMain_EditModePanelintroview_AssemblySearch1_ctl00_documentControlNew_lblTitle">Hansard 16th January 2024</span></h1> 3.5 Deputy R.J. Ward of the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs regarding the recording of a death by suicide (OQ.6/2024)<br /><br />Is it the Minister’s assessment that the recording of death by suicide is adequately and accurately undertaken by the appropriate authorities involved; and if not, why not?<br />Deputy H. Miles of St. Brelade (The Minister for Home Affairs):<br /><br />The decision as to whether a death is recorded as a suicide is made by the viscount as coroner, or the deputy viscount or relief coroner, following an inquest hearing at which evidence is heard and a finding of inquest made, all in accordance with the Inquests and Post-Mortem Examinations (Jersey) Law 1995. Essentially there are 2 elements which must be proved on the balance of probabilities: (1) that the deceased took their own life, and (2) that they intended to do so. Suicide is never presumed. Findings of inquest in Jersey are narrative conclusions, rather than the short-form conclusions used in England and Wales, such as suicide, accident, unlawful killing and open verdict, alcohol/drug-related, et cetera. The superintendent registrar uses the information provided in the finding of inquest, known as the particulars in the law, to populate the required fields in the death register. The superintendent registrar is required to register the death using all the information provided by the Viscount’s Department in the finding of inquest. This process and death certification are requirements in law under the Marriage and Civil Status (Jersey) Law and the laws that govern the statutory function of the viscount. I have no reason to consider that it is not sufficiently robust.<div><br />3.5.1 Deputy R.J. Ward:<br /><br />I thank the Minister for her answer because I know it is a complex subject, which is why I asked the question. May I ask the Minister whether, given that there are - and the word has gone out of my head now - processes to try and lower suicide, is the data accurate enough to get a real idea of the extent of suicide - demographics, et cetera - so that any plan can be targeted effectively on the Island. That is what I am trying to get out.<br /><br />Deputy H. Miles:<br /><br />I thank the Deputy for his follow-up question and I think this answer will help. Information relating to all deaths in Jersey is gathered by the Public Health Intelligence Unit and an annual report presented. In particular, the Jersey Mortality Report 2022 at page 16, where a wider definition of suicide is used. <br /><br />That states: “Deaths are included here where the cause of death was recorded as intentional self-harm or undetermined intent.” I think I am happy that the Public Health Department are taking accurate and reasonable steps to understand the extent of suicide and obviously use that information to inform their public health campaigns.</div><div><br />3.5.2 Deputy B.B. de S.DV.M. Porée of St. Helier South:<br /><br />Can the Minister please explain how the death of those who do not live permanently in the Island, such as migrant workers and work permit people, is logged, if different at all?<br /><br />Deputy H. Miles:<br /><br />While I am not responsible for the Viscount’s Department, I understand that it is irrelevant as to the nationality or the status of the person that resides in the Island. The death will be recorded in exactly the same way.</div><div><br />3.5.3 Deputy B.B. de S.DV.M. Porée:<br /><br />My understanding is that work permit workers are the most vulnerable group in our Island at the moment and understanding those issues, the death, especially when it comes to suicide, it would really help because we could improve our work permit policy and understand how to look after migrant workers.<br /><br />Deputy H. Miles:<br /><br />I thank the Deputy for her question, but I understand the issues regarding the initial question from Deputy Ward and that of Deputy Porée to be entirely separate. The question was really directed at how the act of suicide is recorded in the Island. Certainly I have made my thoughts known regarding the special care of permit workers in a different forum.</div><div><br />3.5.4 Deputy M. Tadier:<br /><br />I think the Minister answered partly a question I would have asked. So I think the follow up is to do with the fact that, say, an F.O.I. (freedom of information) request is put in asking about the rates of suicide in the Island, which figures will the questioner be given, given the fact that there seem to be a conservative estimate, which perhaps has a high bar for the definition of suicide, and the other definition which the Health Department may use for its stats purposes?<br /><br />Deputy H. Miles:<br /><br />I thank the Deputy for his question. When it comes to freedom of information, I think the obligation is for the appropriate agencies to provide all the information. I think it is likely that both sets of figures would be presented in that question.</div><div><br />3.5.5 Deputy R.J. Ward:<br /><br />I am sure the Minister is sensitive to this issue, as the rest of us are. Can I ask the Minister, would she perhaps agree that there may be a difference in the public and private expression of the numbers of suicide, because families and cultures may want to not have that in the public domain, but that data is essential for us to make public health decisions? Is the Minister aware that that dichotomy between those 2 is a challenge, but it is something that will be taken on?<br /><br />Deputy H. Miles:<br /><br />Yes, again, I thank the Deputy for his question. As a result of this question coming forward, I have done a little bit more research. One of the issues that I think is potentially problematic in Jersey is not having the short form of death certificate, which means that the death certificate that is presented to the family, perhaps for probate purposes to take to the bank, to take to D.V.S. (Driver and Vehicle Standards), contains the narrative verdict of the circumstances of the suicide. I can understand that that would be very, very distressing for families. Indeed, earlier this morning, I did have the opportunity to discuss this with the viscount, and I can give the Deputy my assurance that actually we will be looking at this. Obviously, there has to be an official record of death but that does not mean to say that the certificate that proves a person is deceased necessarily has to contain all the information pertaining to their demise. So I hope that satisfies the Deputy.</div><div><br /></div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-82344019741126825542024-01-27T04:30:00.004+00:002024-01-27T04:30:42.555+00:00The Great Ship of the Fens<div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLEj7-_GVleZaXkraPBqZ6HN8qTIWx0MCOIt4tIcot7DQ-ZglJqsA5Fb3L1zWsdX2lsvBXh_j-1iMxvM4K7pMos78ah14TFwdK14ACwDGsDgmvApRy1ez69DkKu_daCqWy8EFd6Nmmd-BMbzI24go1keee-DU1KNebERJjK_WJM-jWktDBzRspAx7Bx-k/s500/a73707f985044da191dad9a6203c8971.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLEj7-_GVleZaXkraPBqZ6HN8qTIWx0MCOIt4tIcot7DQ-ZglJqsA5Fb3L1zWsdX2lsvBXh_j-1iMxvM4K7pMos78ah14TFwdK14ACwDGsDgmvApRy1ez69DkKu_daCqWy8EFd6Nmmd-BMbzI24go1keee-DU1KNebERJjK_WJM-jWktDBzRspAx7Bx-k/s320/a73707f985044da191dad9a6203c8971.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>In Philippa Pierce's magical book "Tom's Midnight Garden", young Tom is sent to stay with his Aunt and Uncle in their flat in an old house, because his brother has chicken pox. Every night he hears the grandfather clock strike 13, opens the back door, and instead of a small yard, finds a wonderful garden where he meets and plays with a young girl, Hattie.<br /><br />The last section of “Tom’s Midnight Garden” takes us back to that past, where they leave the garden and skate to Ely Cathedral, often given the nickname of the title of this poem.<br /><br /><b>The Great Ship of the Fens<br /></b><br />Clock strikes thirteen on the hour<br />Opening of a time travel door<br />Into the garden, snow and flower<br />It was the great frost of 1894<br /><br />The river was frozen, full of ice<br />From the garden, we were skating<br />Such gliding freedom, so very nice<br />As towards Ely, we are migrating<br /><br /></div><div>The great ship of the Fens awaits<br />Cathedral bell chimes from afar<br />Castleford to Ely on our skates<br />But a door now closes, just ajar<br /><br />Tom’s final adventure in that night<br />That Hattie’s memory brings to light<br /><br /></div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-70607754519701648122024-01-26T01:30:00.001+00:002024-01-26T08:10:17.494+00:001974 - 50 Years Ago - January Part 2<div class="separator"><a href="https://cdn.generalblue.com/calendar/1974-calendar-portrait-sunday-start-612x792.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://cdn.generalblue.com/calendar/1974-calendar-portrait-sunday-start-612x792.webp" width="247" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>January 1974 </div><div><br /></div><div>16.—-The 45 men employed at the La Collette reclamation site who stopped work yesterday afternoon, continued their strike today. Their employers, Dutch Company Ballast Nectam were hopeful though that talks could take place later today with the workers, who are making sure no materials reach the site, led by shop steward Keith Margetts. The men want a completely new site agreement covering pay, safety, injury schemes and conditions in general. This, they say, has been continually deferred by the company who were given the contract by the States just over a year ago. <br /><br />17.—-Jersey escaped serious damage during. last night’s storm, though dozens of trees were uprooted and there was considerable minor damage to property. At the height of the storm about 7 o’clock yesterday evening, hurricane force winds of 82 mph were recorded. The most spectacular incident was during the night when a three-ton British Rail covered trailer, parked on the east side of the New North Quay. was lifted up and over the quayside into the harbour, damaging a moored dinghy as it fell. <br /><br />18.——The body of Peter Voigts, relief mate on the German cargo ship Gerd Wiskow berthed at the top of the New North Quay was found lying on the harbour bed between the ship and the quay this morning. Yesterday was his 33rd birthday and last night he had come ashore with another member of the crew. He is presumed to have fallen into the harbour on returning to the ship. <br /><br />19.——A special working party to examine the lack of incentive for States tenants is. to be set up. It has been requested by the Housing Committee and ordered by the Finance Committee. It follows claims from tenants that in some cases they are paying back as much as 62p in each £1 through loss of allowances and increased rents and income tax. . <br /><br />20.—A pet poodle raised the alarm when fire broke out in a modern bungalow at Corbière early this morning, and the occupants escaped to safety. The dog, sensing the danger. woke up 12-year-old Mark Lewis, and he quickly woke his parents Mr. and Mrs. R. V. Lewis. Once outside, they called the Fire Service, but much of the house — Seascape, Clos des Fourneaux — was virtually gutted. <br /><br />21.—A portable gas cylinder exploded and sent names 30 feet into the air on a demolition site in Union Street this morning. The glass in windows and a door on the opposite side of the street were shattered, but no one was hurt. Workmen baring non-salvageable material must have built their bonfire on top of a buried gas cylinder, and the explosion occurred as the men were returning to the fire after their mid-morning break. A second complete cylinder was found, and as a result the area is being searched to prevent a recurrence. <br /><br />22.—-Restrictions imposed by the fuel crisis are not likely to be increased, Defence Committee president Deputy John Riley said in a Press statement today. But for the moment, at least, existing controls cannot be relaxed. <br /><br />23.-—Inquest verdict on Peter Voigts (33). mate of Gerd Wiskow, found on harbour bed on Friday morning—that he accidentally drowned when he fell between the ship and quay while under the influence of drink. <br /><br />24.—Growing concern is being felt by Jersey’s probation workers. youth leaders, school teachers, and staff of the children’s department at the increasing amount of under-age drinking—and its resulting delinquency—by teenagers who seem to have little or no difficulty in obtaining alcohol from shops, in pubs or in their homes. It is part of a national trend, where the clampdown on drugs is turning many more young people to the more easily obtainable liquor, according to research carried out in the UK. <br /><br />26.—British Island Airways have announced the appointment of two more local directors and a change of company title which finally will mean the disappearance of the name “Jersey Airlines”. The new directors of British Island Airways (Jersey) Ltd. formerly Jersey Airlines (Channel Islands) Ltd, are hotelier Mr. H. Burke. of Le Jardin Muré, St. Ouen, and D. Maltwood, of Greenfields, St. Mary. <br /><br />28. —The motor yacht Naomi sank in Gorey Harbour last night after she broke loose from her moorings in the gale-force winds. Only the cabin top of the yacht, owned by Major-General J. H. O. Wilsey, of Maufant Manor, was visible early this morning, and Gorey Harbour attendant, Mr. Doug Park, said that the vessel was badly damaged. <br /><br />29.——Although the petrol tanker Esso Tynemouth has been sheltering off the Isle of Wight since the weekend and is not expected to reach the Island until tonight, Esso say they have plenty of petrol in store. The tanker, carrying 520 tons of petrol for the Island has been unable to complete her journey from Fawley because of gales. The Defence Committee announced that the Island had almost met the required reduction in the use at all fuels, said that the saving in petrol usage only amounted to 5% per cent last week. A further call to motorists not to use their cars for non-essential journeys was made. <br /><br />30.—Although new legislation dealing with the treatment and welfare of animals is being prepared, the Committee of Agriculture is to urge the States to increase penal-ties for cruelty to animals by amending the present 78-year old law. If approved by the States. the maximum penalties under the “ Loi pour Emtpécher de Mauvais Traitment ,des Animaux " will be increased to three months” imprisonment or a £250 fine. The maximum is currently one month or £10. <br /><br />31.-—None of the gloom or Common Market blues—so apparent this time of year—seems to be in evidence among local cauliflower growers this season. With the crop just about at the half-way stage. it appears to be one or the best seasons for many years.</div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-82672162972235812212024-01-20T01:30:00.012+00:002024-01-20T01:30:00.145+00:00A Lamp is Running Out of Oil<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhqv2N71qL2ptf3pzbvRWt3z61bI4qM1ZSmLjklLvfWc33ia06o5ay12tsABcrRY2SVmKXiqCOhR8x9U8iGWwJT_nT6Hoit8MknkxYCDX-ASrqzv6OJwDqkbU-uuEKPyU8RzQMacrUwODfkUVSuD40mv1K34hX8157aHGxz2F9ianftG5wHNQtSmM56HA/s1280/maxresdefault.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhqv2N71qL2ptf3pzbvRWt3z61bI4qM1ZSmLjklLvfWc33ia06o5ay12tsABcrRY2SVmKXiqCOhR8x9U8iGWwJT_nT6Hoit8MknkxYCDX-ASrqzv6OJwDqkbU-uuEKPyU8RzQMacrUwODfkUVSuD40mv1K34hX8157aHGxz2F9ianftG5wHNQtSmM56HA/s320/maxresdefault.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>The title of the poem comes from a phrase quoted by Chris Mullin in his most recent diaries. It's used about death, about old age creeping towards its end, and it inspired this.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>A Lamp is Running Out of Oil </b><br /><br />Entropy increases, all things end <br />And a life starts bright, then dims <br />A long and winding path to wend <br />Its way to failing heart and limbs <br /><br />Sleep, sleep, wake, eat and sleep <br />A pattern of days draws to close <br />Sadness, but not yet time to weep <br />Departure delayed, no one knows <br /><br />Once the lamp was filled with oil <br />Burning, burning, and very bright <br />But Lady Time comes take her toil <br />Dusk approaches, coming night <br /><br />Slow, slow, like a waltz this dance <br />Reading signs of time and chance <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-74628932378488839392024-01-19T01:30:00.018+00:002024-01-19T01:30:00.198+00:001974 - 50 years ago - January Part 1<div class="separator"><a href="https://cdn.generalblue.com/calendar/1974-calendar-portrait-sunday-start-612x792.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://cdn.generalblue.com/calendar/1974-calendar-portrait-sunday-start-612x792.webp" width="247" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>JANUARY 1974 <br /><br />1. A bright new start to the New Year for Mrs. Rosemary Dumond — she gave birth to a. 6 lb. 12 oz. boy early this morning—he was Jersey's only New Year’s Davy baby. <br /><br /> 2.——Jersey’s chief immigration officer. Mr. Alan J. Le Bruin, is made on OBE in the New Year Honours, and Mrs. Daphne Minihane, who helped raise £194,000 for St. Augustine’s Home. is made MBE for her services to the community. At least four Jersey people are named in the list. <br /><br />3.—-The Defence Committee announced that the first seven proposals concerning heating and lighting restrictions become law as from midnight tonight. Offenders will face fines of. up to £400 or three months’ imprisonment, or both. Mr. Edward Potter, States Greffier, spoke of “ more savage consequences ” if the ten per cent overall reduction is not met. <br /><br />4.—-Blatant breaches of the fuel control regulations were in evidence all over St. Helier—although some business houses appeared to be conforming with restrictions. The main offence appeared to be the continued use of lighting to advertise products in shop windows. <br /><br /> 5.—The Chamber of Commerce is a statement issued today, expressed the wish that the seven restrictions on the use of fuel already imposed by the Emergency Committee will have sufficient effect to avoid introducing the eighth proposal ——- a ban on the use of electricity in shops and business houses after 4.30 pm. <br /><br /> 7 .-—-The Jersey New Waterworks Company, in their search for more water, are to sink two trial boreholes at Blanches Banques, St. Brelade. The price of bread is to go up in Jersey from next Monday when a normal family size 2-lb. loaf will cost l4p—an increase at 1p. And in addition to the 2-llb load costing more so will what the bakers describe as “ fancy breads <br /><br /> 8.———It was announced that . there will be no 4.30 p.m. “ shoppers’ curfew ”, at least for the time being. It is hoped that the Island can achieve a ten per cent cut in fuel consumption without such a drastic measure being taken. High gusts and strong Winds this morning disrupted flying into and out of the Island and passengers on three services from the mainland—Gatwick, London and Southampton—had quite lengthy delays. <br /><br />9.-——Fewer destitute people were repatriated from Jersey to the mainland last year than in 1973. But more people were given financial assistance to enable them to return to their homes. The Department of Public Building and Works cleared 80,000 bottles from Jersey’s beaches last year with 75 per cent on” all those found being non-returnable. Jersey's Medical Officer of Health, Dr. William Williams, BSc.. MB, BCh, MM and H, DPH, died at a. local nursing home. He was 58. <br /><br />10,—Mr. H. H. Le Quesne has been elected a. Jurat of the Royal Court and will take his oath of office before the Full Court at 11.30 am on Thursday, January 17. <br /><br />11.-—A 50 per cent increase in the price of gas was announced backdated to January 1. And in addition all consumers will be required to pay a quarterly surcharge. Fierce sales gusting up to hurricane level left a trail of damage early this morning and disrupted local shipping. More gales are expected tonight. . <br /><br />12.—Channel Television is in " grave danger " of complete closure by early summer. At the very least, all local programmes are likely to be scrapped and the station to operate on a “ network only ” basis. And; that could be as soon as April. The very real closure fear is because there are “ massive cancellations " of advertising options by UK companies in the pipeline. and the UK advertising is the company’s main source of income. , <br /><br />14.-—Following a three-day fact-finding tour or the mainland, Senator C. S. Dupré, the Tourism Committee’s president, is more than ever convinced that 1974 holds immense holiday prospects for Jersey. Despite increases in sea and air fares. and in hotel charges, local hoteliers report record bookings for this time of the year. <br /><br />15.—-St. Luke’s School infants have been promised a brighter future by Education Committee president. Senator Reg. Jeune. The tumbledown German wooden huts which house the infant’s department, nicknamed Stalag 118 by Headmaster Mr. Alec Shepherd, will be replaced in time for the start or the summer term, if planning permission is given. <br /><br /> </div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-5130632263765161722024-01-13T01:30:00.018+00:002024-01-13T12:49:06.500+00:00The Winter King<div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1_2BXI-3Nx4y3HMMmOKtqcp7Ksl8eZspojtVWFU5FMRfWeOgRL9D59FTJe2BfhWE-cOKIDj2vKmSgjJbtiKrYNaE1z4VYyAoI_YJflFBKubi00TvD5oAkIrYB1Mt7PEbPibEjA5TxGsez5TqhsLsWhYEIq0B4mK2gV5Bg-iKpI86G6PFnkwOz0aD_FE4/s1920/281983.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1_2BXI-3Nx4y3HMMmOKtqcp7Ksl8eZspojtVWFU5FMRfWeOgRL9D59FTJe2BfhWE-cOKIDj2vKmSgjJbtiKrYNaE1z4VYyAoI_YJflFBKubi00TvD5oAkIrYB1Mt7PEbPibEjA5TxGsez5TqhsLsWhYEIq0B4mK2gV5Bg-iKpI86G6PFnkwOz0aD_FE4/s320/281983.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Winter King <br /></b><br />Snowflakes falling, the icy eventide <br />By fireside warmth, snuggle and abide <br />Away from cold winds blowing, flee <br />The crackling log, comfort for me <br /><br />Dark clouds ebb out life's little day <br />Sleet and slow, the landscapes pass away <br />In the morning, white the fields I see <br />The Winter King arrives to abide with me <br /><br />A dark charm of ice from his hand to bless <br />Our Wintertide, the roofs and fields caress <br />With drifting snow, that all around I see <br />Winter now arrived to abide with me <br /><br />Sleep takes me, warm bed, my closing eyes <br />Shine through the gloom and point me to the skies <br />A dawn of sunshine, and melting snowfalls flee <br />Praise that now a thaw will abide with me <br /><br /> </div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-77019312334792759662024-01-12T01:30:00.018+00:002024-01-12T01:30:00.127+00:00Jersey Zoo 1984 - Stamps<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj68quzUnUsemgfEguSl0WpAGcIWqJNwJl6PcSoEQkYRL3IsBA_nNFAikraQGedOEBiS9XK1ol9kxdBHxXVXvJI2Ts-7TiXTxaC1Hql_5JGuUcnXq-qqLR1Skij99-K37FcELlN2RrgH_qUXXoy74hF6lfc7_pOoJZ3E-c24ixyW9Y4tei5xh_xl7NMjhA/s320/a1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="84" data-original-width="320" height="84" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj68quzUnUsemgfEguSl0WpAGcIWqJNwJl6PcSoEQkYRL3IsBA_nNFAikraQGedOEBiS9XK1ol9kxdBHxXVXvJI2Ts-7TiXTxaC1Hql_5JGuUcnXq-qqLR1Skij99-K37FcELlN2RrgH_qUXXoy74hF6lfc7_pOoJZ3E-c24ixyW9Y4tei5xh_xl7NMjhA/s320/a1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>From the Jersey Zoo 25 Years Anniversary Brochure published in 1984.</div><div><br /></div><div> <b>Stamps - A Natural Choice<br /></b><br />The animals from Jersey Zoo are a natural choice to feature on the stamps issued regularly by the Island's independent post office.<br /><br />The Island became a stamp issuing authority in its own right in 1969 as the Zoo was celebrating its tenth birthday and two issues featuring its animals appeared in 1971 and I972.<br /><br />The 2lst anniversary of the Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust was celebrated in style in January this year with the fourth issue of zoo stamps. There are six of them and by universal acclaim they are among the most beautiful of all the issues of the past 15 years.<br /><br />This is to the credit of the Zoo's own research assistant, William Oliver, who designed the stamps.<br /><br />Not only will they help carry news of the trust’s work to all corners of the world, but like all Jersey's stamps, they are a marvellous advertisement for the Island as a whole. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhaZzBmgvYXwdtl3I9NSBUmUECcEvqvjaNq5Ij9xfx0LEo4dKO_Ej8r4BjbCEtIgk5gMkSa-SHjJ9W2V5X1wPbFkf5RAgrJYjqL7_h6wCYw5gmRR_YBmrHGmngLalgT_r-635VWD1VjW2v1t-5ooK8Cx169qR7EPiAixT6RHcGuGdAznG3_esb8uCukk4/s505/b1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="261" data-original-width="505" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhaZzBmgvYXwdtl3I9NSBUmUECcEvqvjaNq5Ij9xfx0LEo4dKO_Ej8r4BjbCEtIgk5gMkSa-SHjJ9W2V5X1wPbFkf5RAgrJYjqL7_h6wCYw5gmRR_YBmrHGmngLalgT_r-635VWD1VjW2v1t-5ooK8Cx169qR7EPiAixT6RHcGuGdAznG3_esb8uCukk4/s320/b1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br />The 9p stamp, in general use within the Island, features the golden lion tamarin, which is severely threatened by the destruction of its natural habitat in Brazil and by poaching on behalf of unscrupulous dealers. <br /><br />The 12p stamp, used on correspondence to the rest of the British Isles, features the snow leopard, which is found in the high mountain areas of India, Pakistan, China and Russia and rarely observed in the wild. <br /><br />The 20 1/2p stamp carries mail to European countries and features the Jamaican boa, one of the three West Indian boas being bred at Jersey Zoo, most successfully because over 100 have been sent to other zoos in seven years.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8I_f_hShKM7QYtygf9rR1H8E9kPITIYvTfx1Bn9yooWQwltuRwlPiC7G0s9u11dwxmTtZZpWNlA2Qr3mFtwCXOTfngz4x2SWNf0y9dwvFE1diKh5EwhrTF0Jgo5vcR4Tenus4-iP8JxwyI2XxhavTHqThne2kc-O1lggY8v1oPYc8PbzYeCGJm9fnVlU/s512/b2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="268" data-original-width="512" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8I_f_hShKM7QYtygf9rR1H8E9kPITIYvTfx1Bn9yooWQwltuRwlPiC7G0s9u11dwxmTtZZpWNlA2Qr3mFtwCXOTfngz4x2SWNf0y9dwvFE1diKh5EwhrTF0Jgo5vcR4Tenus4-iP8JxwyI2XxhavTHqThne2kc-O1lggY8v1oPYc8PbzYeCGJm9fnVlU/s320/b2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>The 26p stamp features the Round Island Gecko, one of three threatened reptile species brought from the tiny Indian Ocean island to be bred in captivity in Jersey, where over 80 are already thriving, possibly one day to be reintroduced to their native home.<br /><br />The 28p stamp features the Coscorobo Swan, a beautiful bird occurring in the Falkland Islands and parts of South America, but becoming increasingly rare. Jersey Zoo has two breeding pairs.<br /><br />The 31 p stamp features another attractive bird, the St Lucia Parrot, which was bred in captivity by the trust for the first time in I982. It is a critically endangered species, with perhaps no more than 100 left in the wild.<br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTj88DhjTfZyWP_q672AFrsW47CxlgH1j3hpdMTaxpLuD6nlTRKBZXmMZs-xdrohWa3FSsd7n2ZbRGAqKNCyIZTOWYIe7JovTpWT_ai8h4txwf3Nfc0snD6qY29NPcEWvata_B4o5SaeCO3Pwsj51rA4FuAQcE_ZiYknqUFVgj7Gzaz6fRrTqJSvCmlEA/s614/b3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="455" data-original-width="614" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTj88DhjTfZyWP_q672AFrsW47CxlgH1j3hpdMTaxpLuD6nlTRKBZXmMZs-xdrohWa3FSsd7n2ZbRGAqKNCyIZTOWYIe7JovTpWT_ai8h4txwf3Nfc0snD6qY29NPcEWvata_B4o5SaeCO3Pwsj51rA4FuAQcE_ZiYknqUFVgj7Gzaz6fRrTqJSvCmlEA/w400-h296/b3.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9095270985170721876.post-34984409493386094202024-01-06T01:30:00.001+00:002024-01-06T01:30:00.246+00:00North Wind<div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibXrKtBlSFv9VcuFMGhhaXVpuFusEmGcDH64ZAQe1elBALc7nGd3XHfuYdnw9iVSTrG88wq3pD_V0QftAF6icB2LlY_BCZEsa8jcG6aH5aAjes3p7LgK85pq-xSpsUgm-g0to2X3-vJc_zzJuB_oGfnUm9H8mZ2o61LGoRLwZXkOwxgyTd5sqlbD1ffQw/s636/AttheBackoftheNorthWind-Cover_1_424x636.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibXrKtBlSFv9VcuFMGhhaXVpuFusEmGcDH64ZAQe1elBALc7nGd3XHfuYdnw9iVSTrG88wq3pD_V0QftAF6icB2LlY_BCZEsa8jcG6aH5aAjes3p7LgK85pq-xSpsUgm-g0to2X3-vJc_zzJuB_oGfnUm9H8mZ2o61LGoRLwZXkOwxgyTd5sqlbD1ffQw/s320/AttheBackoftheNorthWind-Cover_1_424x636.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This poem is one from the archive, written on 9th January 2005, and inspired by George MacDonald's wonderful magical story "At the Back of the North Wind". With colder weather on the way, and the odd gale, rough seas, this seems timely to revisit.<br /><br /><b>North Wind<br /></b> <br />The lady of the night, my North Wind,<br />With hair like air, so fine and thinned;<br />You caress my face with gentle breeze:<br />A soft cool voice, to make me at ease;<br />And then you take my hand, we soar<br />Up into the clouds, in the night adore;<br />Hair now trails over house and roof,<br />Beats against the ground, cool, aloof;<br />You are rising, gigantic, in colder air,<br />Come sweep away the dirt with care;<br />The city streets blown clean this way:<br />A mighty gale, rattle slates, dismay;<br />And far out to sea, you cast your arm:<br />The waves are rising, there is alarm;<br />The ship is foundering in the waters,<br />Many drowning, sweeping fingers<br />Stir the ocean into fury, and I ask<br />Why is this your appointed task?<br />You smile sadly, such your nature,<br />As understanding my discomfiture,<br />To act this way, to take poor souls:<br />This is your path, to seek such goals,<br />To take them from the land and sea,<br />At the back of the North Wind to be,<br />In another country, to rest and stay:<br />A land of music, joy, so far away;<br />Now draw me inland, set me down<br />In cobbled streets of London Town;<br />Time to go now, farewell, my dear,<br />Descend to earth from stratosphere;<br />Softer, pale, diminish, you fade fast,<br />The breeze so gentle, and now the last<br />Soft kiss of your breath upon my lips,<br />As you wave in parting, shadow slips<br />Away, back to North, until one day,<br />You will take me there to ever stay.<br /><br />TonyTheProfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10486414706261508994noreply@blogger.com0