http://vimeo.com/27503318
The Community Respite Care Committee has created a short video describing respite. Check it out!
Showing posts with label websites. Show all posts
Showing posts with label websites. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Remembrance Day Services
Each year, I struggle to find the right words to share with my children about Remembrance Day. I tell them our personal family history and involvement and try to answer their questions as best I can. The Royal Canadian Legion has some excellent information that is appropriate for children here: http://www.legion.ca/Poppy/campaign_e.cfm
I have been fortunate to attend the last few Remembrance Day assemblies at Macaulay Elementary. The teachers and staff are outstanding. They are able to bring children and families together with Veterans to talk about Remembrance Day in a way that is deeply moving. I am always reminded that my children are blessed with health, education and freedom.
Tomorrow, we will have several opportunities to attend Remembrance Day services. In Esquimalt, there is a service at the Veteran's Cemetery at 9:30am. At 10:30 a.m. there is a Remembrance Day parade from the Esquimalt Legion to the Memorial Park cenotaph across from municipal hall, 1229 Esquimalt Rd. A ceremony follows at 10:55 a.m.
I have been fortunate to attend the last few Remembrance Day assemblies at Macaulay Elementary. The teachers and staff are outstanding. They are able to bring children and families together with Veterans to talk about Remembrance Day in a way that is deeply moving. I am always reminded that my children are blessed with health, education and freedom.
Tomorrow, we will have several opportunities to attend Remembrance Day services. In Esquimalt, there is a service at the Veteran's Cemetery at 9:30am. At 10:30 a.m. there is a Remembrance Day parade from the Esquimalt Legion to the Memorial Park cenotaph across from municipal hall, 1229 Esquimalt Rd. A ceremony follows at 10:55 a.m.
Prince Charles and Camilla Duchess of Cornwall visit CFB Esquimalt
DiManno: Prince Charles gets comfortable - thestar.com
Yesterday, CFB Esquimalt was visited by Prince Charles and Camilla Duchess of Cornwall. I have heard many happy stories from friends who had the opportunity to wave and even exchange a word with our visitors.
I found this story from the Toronto Star quite interesting as it gives a little taste of the rich history of our area. As many long time Esquimalt residents know, Esquimalt was once the home to the Royal Navy's Pacific Squadron. Yesterday was exactly 99 years to the day that the Royal Navy transferred CFB Esquimalt to the Royal Canadian Navy. It was quite significant to have a royal visit on this occasion. It was also marked by raising the flag for the Naval Centennial which will be celebrated next year.
For more on our history please visit our Esquimalt Archives. They are tucked away between the McDonalds and the Archie Browning Sports Centre. The archives are open in the mornings Monday - Thursday and they are well worth the visit!
In addition to that, we have an extraordinary Naval Museum. Details can be found here: http://www.navalandmilitarymuseum.org/
Yesterday, CFB Esquimalt was visited by Prince Charles and Camilla Duchess of Cornwall. I have heard many happy stories from friends who had the opportunity to wave and even exchange a word with our visitors.
I found this story from the Toronto Star quite interesting as it gives a little taste of the rich history of our area. As many long time Esquimalt residents know, Esquimalt was once the home to the Royal Navy's Pacific Squadron. Yesterday was exactly 99 years to the day that the Royal Navy transferred CFB Esquimalt to the Royal Canadian Navy. It was quite significant to have a royal visit on this occasion. It was also marked by raising the flag for the Naval Centennial which will be celebrated next year.
For more on our history please visit our Esquimalt Archives. They are tucked away between the McDonalds and the Archie Browning Sports Centre. The archives are open in the mornings Monday - Thursday and they are well worth the visit!
In addition to that, we have an extraordinary Naval Museum. Details can be found here: http://www.navalandmilitarymuseum.org/
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Late Summer Fun!
There are still a few great events in these last days of summer. Hope to see you at all of them!
The Victoria Fringe Festival www.intrepidtheatre.com I just picked up my program guide and noticed that this festival is 23 years old. That makes me....um....not 23 anymore. In fact, I believe I was 15 at my first ever Fringe performance. It was a 3 Dead Trolls In a Baggie show. It took place downtown after midnight so it was a challenge to convince my Mother that attending this show was a good idea. Eventually she was swayed by the fact that my friend and I had earned the tickets volunteering...and she even agreed to pick us up at 2am. If you had the good fortune to see the Trolls you'll probably understand why I fell in love with the Fringe right then and there. I don't think I've missed a year since.
The Free B Film Festival www.victoriafilmfestival.com I love outdoor movies. Outdoor B movies are a particular favourite of mine...and there are still a couple of opportunites to catch one at Beacon Hill Park this summer.
and finally:
A free outdoor movie night in Esquimalt! Pirates of the Carribean is playing at Bullen Park at 8pm on Saturday, August 29th. www.esquimalt.ca I am really excited about this event and hope it will become a new tradition in Esquimalt. I'm packing up my lawn chair, a blanket and some snacks to watch this movie and relax under the stars with my neighbours. Please join us!
The Victoria Fringe Festival www.intrepidtheatre.com I just picked up my program guide and noticed that this festival is 23 years old. That makes me....um....not 23 anymore. In fact, I believe I was 15 at my first ever Fringe performance. It was a 3 Dead Trolls In a Baggie show. It took place downtown after midnight so it was a challenge to convince my Mother that attending this show was a good idea. Eventually she was swayed by the fact that my friend and I had earned the tickets volunteering...and she even agreed to pick us up at 2am. If you had the good fortune to see the Trolls you'll probably understand why I fell in love with the Fringe right then and there. I don't think I've missed a year since.
The Free B Film Festival www.victoriafilmfestival.com I love outdoor movies. Outdoor B movies are a particular favourite of mine...and there are still a couple of opportunites to catch one at Beacon Hill Park this summer.
and finally:
A free outdoor movie night in Esquimalt! Pirates of the Carribean is playing at Bullen Park at 8pm on Saturday, August 29th. www.esquimalt.ca I am really excited about this event and hope it will become a new tradition in Esquimalt. I'm packing up my lawn chair, a blanket and some snacks to watch this movie and relax under the stars with my neighbours. Please join us!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
My Esquimalt (dot com)
Esquimalt has launched a new website. Please check it out! It is: www.myesquimalt.com
There are some gorgeous photos of Esquimalt to enjoy. In addition to that, you can download some fantastic walking tours. If you ever get the chance, please treat yourself to a guided walking tour with Sheri Robinson. She has an incredible knowledge of our history! In the meantime, enjoy the great tours she has created!
There are some gorgeous photos of Esquimalt to enjoy. In addition to that, you can download some fantastic walking tours. If you ever get the chance, please treat yourself to a guided walking tour with Sheri Robinson. She has an incredible knowledge of our history! In the meantime, enjoy the great tours she has created!
Beetle Research at Saxe Point Park
Here is an interesting news release I took from our www.esquimalt.ca website. If you check out the website you'll see a photo of the bug that we're looking for!
Beetle Research at Saxe Point Park
June 19, 2009
The Ministry of Environment will be conducting research at Saxe Point Park this summer. The purpose of the research is to look for a large, black, predatory ground beetle called the Audouin's Night-Stalking Tiger Beetle (scientific name: Omus audouini). It inhabits forest floor leaf litter, and comes out into open plains and coastal bluffs (such as those at Saxe Point) at night to look for prey.
The Audouin's Night-Stalking Tiger Beetle is quite rare, and has not been documented on Vancouver Island since the 1920's. It is thought to be an important part of the invertebrate predator/prey system, and the goal of the research is to verify its continued presence in Garry Oak and associated ecosystems in the greater Victoria area.
The research will include collecting the beetles using 'pitfall' traps, which are essentially cups dug into the ground with the top rim level with the ground, so that beetles fall into them while they are walking. These traps will be left in the ground for the whole summer and will be checked once a week. There will be signs up at the survey site indicating the purpose of research and what the traps are for to the public.
Beetle Research at Saxe Point Park
June 19, 2009
The Ministry of Environment will be conducting research at Saxe Point Park this summer. The purpose of the research is to look for a large, black, predatory ground beetle called the Audouin's Night-Stalking Tiger Beetle (scientific name: Omus audouini). It inhabits forest floor leaf litter, and comes out into open plains and coastal bluffs (such as those at Saxe Point) at night to look for prey.
The Audouin's Night-Stalking Tiger Beetle is quite rare, and has not been documented on Vancouver Island since the 1920's. It is thought to be an important part of the invertebrate predator/prey system, and the goal of the research is to verify its continued presence in Garry Oak and associated ecosystems in the greater Victoria area.
The research will include collecting the beetles using 'pitfall' traps, which are essentially cups dug into the ground with the top rim level with the ground, so that beetles fall into them while they are walking. These traps will be left in the ground for the whole summer and will be checked once a week. There will be signs up at the survey site indicating the purpose of research and what the traps are for to the public.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Finding Charlotte Photography Website
My friend John, of Finding Charlotte Photography has finally launched a website. He is an incredible artist and his photo gallery is spectacular! I think you'll enjoy seeing local places and faces from John's unique perspective. Monday and Focus magazines have both been clever enough to publish some of his photos recently...and you'll immediately see why.
If I ever live out the dream of putting together an all girl rock band, I will beg John to photograph our first album cover. Unfortunately, I haven't even learned how to play a guitar yet...so I asked him to do my campaign photos. Many of them are still on my website (which his super talented wife created.) Work that both of them did for the ridiculously low cost of free because they are both uncommonly kind people. Take a look at my website www.alisongaul.ca and then send me an email asking me why I look so pretty in the photos and so not pretty in real life. Several people already have!
Seriously though, please take a few moments to check out www.findingcharlotte.ca and view some of John's work...and if you are looking for a photographer consider giving him a call. He is someone I am so much happier for knowing - you will be too!
If I ever live out the dream of putting together an all girl rock band, I will beg John to photograph our first album cover. Unfortunately, I haven't even learned how to play a guitar yet...so I asked him to do my campaign photos. Many of them are still on my website (which his super talented wife created.) Work that both of them did for the ridiculously low cost of free because they are both uncommonly kind people. Take a look at my website www.alisongaul.ca and then send me an email asking me why I look so pretty in the photos and so not pretty in real life. Several people already have!
Seriously though, please take a few moments to check out www.findingcharlotte.ca and view some of John's work...and if you are looking for a photographer consider giving him a call. He is someone I am so much happier for knowing - you will be too!
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Victoria Harbour Ferries
This Tuesday, I had a meeting at the CRD building downtown. A very quick hop on the #6 bus takes me right downtown so this is my usual mode of travel to these meetings. However, there is a new option for Esquimalt commuters (and any other locals)...the Victoria Harbour Ferry!
After the meeting I went for a walk and found the Victoria Harbour Ferries office at 1234 Wharf. It is right on the water (and you can see the ferries parked there when you cross the blue bridge). For just $65 dollars I purchased an Ambassador Pass which allows me to travel for the season. There are a few exceptions to note:
The pass is valid for harbour hops to and from all stops excluding Bamfield Park and Tillicum Landing. Ambassadors can hop on any day of the week in April, May, June, September and October. In July and August travel is limited Monday through Thursday .
It also offers some discounts at local businesses. For more info check out their website:
www.victoriaharbourferry.com
See you on the ferry!
After the meeting I went for a walk and found the Victoria Harbour Ferries office at 1234 Wharf. It is right on the water (and you can see the ferries parked there when you cross the blue bridge). For just $65 dollars I purchased an Ambassador Pass which allows me to travel for the season. There are a few exceptions to note:
The pass is valid for harbour hops to and from all stops excluding Bamfield Park and Tillicum Landing. Ambassadors can hop on any day of the week in April, May, June, September and October. In July and August travel is limited Monday through Thursday .
It also offers some discounts at local businesses. For more info check out their website:
www.victoriaharbourferry.com
See you on the ferry!
Thursday, June 4, 2009
On the Road...
I'll be on the road for a little bit and away from the computer...actually I'll be in the air! Tomorrow I take 2 float planes on my way to the FCM conference. More about FCM can be found here: www.fcm.ca I'm pretty excited because this will be a great opportunity to learn more about municipal governments in Canada. However,I'm a really nervous flyer so my excitement is mixed with just a titch of terror. I've also never been away from my kids before. I have never gone an entire day of their lives without seeing them. Truth be told, I'm a bit of a wreck...but I'm sure they'll be having a great time here. Grandma has already promised them a trip to the Toy Store and Dad will make sure that they get to eat all the goodies Mom frowns upon.
In any case, I'm going to be away from the computer for a bit as I don't have one of those Blackberry things. While I'm gone you can check out this blog: iamsahm-jojo.blogspot.com Its written by somebody pretty terrific!
In any case, I'm going to be away from the computer for a bit as I don't have one of those Blackberry things. While I'm gone you can check out this blog: iamsahm-jojo.blogspot.com Its written by somebody pretty terrific!
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Storytime at Beans and Greens on Sunday
Date: Sunday May 31st
Time: 10am - 11am.
Cost: Free!
Coffee: Delicious!
I'll be telling stories, singing songs and hosting some fun for you and your teddy bear!
This week the theme will be Hospitals/X-rays and Casts. If you bring a stuffed animal or doll (one that you don't mind getting dirty) I will put a cast on it for you and give it a little "check up"
Before politics, before my new wonderful job, before having children actually....I was a Child Life Specialist. It is always with joy that I get a chance to play with kids again and talk about going to the hospital. Child Life is an incredible career and you can find out more about it here: www.childlife.org
See you at Beans and Greens! Don't forget your dolly!
Admirals rd, across from the Tudor House, in beautiful sunny Esquimalt!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Sewage Treatment Community Consultation
Mon. April 20, 5-6 & 7-8pm: Esquimalt Archie Browning Sports Centre - Crowsnest Rm, 1151 Esquimalt Rd
This is your opportunity to be heard regarding Sewage Treatment in Esquimalt.
For more info and dates in other communities please check out:
www.wastewatermadeclear.ca
This is your opportunity to be heard regarding Sewage Treatment in Esquimalt.
For more info and dates in other communities please check out:
www.wastewatermadeclear.ca
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Free Fruit Trees!
Here is a press release from the Township of Esquimalt website. www.esquimalt.ca Don't forget to sign up for your email updates!
Fruit Trees Available for Esquimalt Residents
April 1, 2009
Esquimalt Eats for Health is a municipal nutrition strategy and food security project with a mission to change the current food environment in the community. Limited quantities of apple, cherry and pear trees will be made available at no cost for Esquimalt residents through a fruit tree distribution initiative funded by the Union of BC Municipalities. Residents interested in a tree must submit an application. Application forms are available online at www.esquimalt.ca or at the Esquimalt Recreation Centre. Local not-for-profit agencies are also invited to submit applications.
Mayor Barbra Desjardins hopes that this initiative further develops the sense of community in the Township and increases access to nutritional foods such as fresh fruit for many residents. “It would be great if those with trees bearing extra fruit share with other residents.” Desjardins noted. Recipients of trees will be chosen on a first come, first served basis – providing all pre-requisites (on the application) are met. Applications will be accepted until Sunday, April 12.
Esquimalt Eats for Health is being coordinated by the Esquimalt Parks and Recreation Department. Other project initiatives include introducing healthier options through food services, free nutrition workshops and special events celebrating local, sustainable foods.
For more information please contact:
Christina Moog, Aquatic and Fitness Coordinator
Project Leader, Esquimalt Eats for Health
Tel: 250-412-8501
Fruit Trees Available for Esquimalt Residents
April 1, 2009
Esquimalt Eats for Health is a municipal nutrition strategy and food security project with a mission to change the current food environment in the community. Limited quantities of apple, cherry and pear trees will be made available at no cost for Esquimalt residents through a fruit tree distribution initiative funded by the Union of BC Municipalities. Residents interested in a tree must submit an application. Application forms are available online at www.esquimalt.ca or at the Esquimalt Recreation Centre. Local not-for-profit agencies are also invited to submit applications.
Mayor Barbra Desjardins hopes that this initiative further develops the sense of community in the Township and increases access to nutritional foods such as fresh fruit for many residents. “It would be great if those with trees bearing extra fruit share with other residents.” Desjardins noted. Recipients of trees will be chosen on a first come, first served basis – providing all pre-requisites (on the application) are met. Applications will be accepted until Sunday, April 12.
Esquimalt Eats for Health is being coordinated by the Esquimalt Parks and Recreation Department. Other project initiatives include introducing healthier options through food services, free nutrition workshops and special events celebrating local, sustainable foods.
For more information please contact:
Christina Moog, Aquatic and Fitness Coordinator
Project Leader, Esquimalt Eats for Health
Tel: 250-412-8501
Friday, March 13, 2009
Archie Browning Sports Centre Grant Application
On Monday night, I had the happiest moment I've had so far in my brief political career. It was better than the campaign launch party. It was better than winning the election. It was better than the inaugural meeting. On Monday night, Esquimalt Council voted unanimously to pursue a 2 million dollar grant for the Archie Browning Sports Centre.
We're moving forward!
If we are successful, this grant could substantially extend the life of ABSC without increasing municipal taxes. Staff have identified that there are enough funds in our capital reserve to contribute our portion if we are fortunate enough to receive the grant. My sincere thanks to our staff and to all that are helping to take positive steps towards ensuring our community keeps our ice facility. Esquimalt residents have been asking for us to be proactive and consider all avenues of upgrading ABSC. I'm so happy to say that we're moving forward and trying to make the most of opportunities!
The upgrades that we are hoping to receive will enhance energy efficiency and further reduce the subsidy. We are planning improvements for users such as female dressing rooms for hockey players and better accessibility for people with disabilities. In short, we are hoping to take our well loved facility and make sure it can continue to be well loved - well into the future.
If a potential upgrade of ABSC wasn't enough to make me smile...we also voted to apply for a grant to upgrade and install some sidewalks! We have a sidewalk replacement master plan now and we're hoping to start making Esquimalt even more pedestrian friendly.
I am thrilled that we are able to work together and start exploring options for enhancing our beloved community without putting more of a tax burden on our residents! Whether we are successful with this grant or not - we have taken a positive step!
For more information check out www.esquimalt.ca All of our Agendas and minutes are being posted online. Our website is really improving. There is a lot of new info and it is being updated regularly!
We're moving forward!
If we are successful, this grant could substantially extend the life of ABSC without increasing municipal taxes. Staff have identified that there are enough funds in our capital reserve to contribute our portion if we are fortunate enough to receive the grant. My sincere thanks to our staff and to all that are helping to take positive steps towards ensuring our community keeps our ice facility. Esquimalt residents have been asking for us to be proactive and consider all avenues of upgrading ABSC. I'm so happy to say that we're moving forward and trying to make the most of opportunities!
The upgrades that we are hoping to receive will enhance energy efficiency and further reduce the subsidy. We are planning improvements for users such as female dressing rooms for hockey players and better accessibility for people with disabilities. In short, we are hoping to take our well loved facility and make sure it can continue to be well loved - well into the future.
If a potential upgrade of ABSC wasn't enough to make me smile...we also voted to apply for a grant to upgrade and install some sidewalks! We have a sidewalk replacement master plan now and we're hoping to start making Esquimalt even more pedestrian friendly.
I am thrilled that we are able to work together and start exploring options for enhancing our beloved community without putting more of a tax burden on our residents! Whether we are successful with this grant or not - we have taken a positive step!
For more information check out www.esquimalt.ca All of our Agendas and minutes are being posted online. Our website is really improving. There is a lot of new info and it is being updated regularly!
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Hockeyville 2009
Thank you so much to everyone who entered Esquimalt in Kraft Hockeyville! We have over 100 stories posted! I LOVED reading them and I hope you will too! Check it out at: www.cbc.com/hockeyville We'll know by January 14th if we've made the first cut!
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Victoria Labour Council Endorsement
I am honoured to announce that I have been endorsed by the Victoria Labour Council. I am the only candidate in Esquimalt endorsed by VLC. To earn this, I completed a lengthy written questionnaire and interview process. I have been a member of HSA since 1997 and before then, I was a member of HEU and CUPE. You can find out more information on their newly launched website: http://victorialabour.ca/
This endorsement does not imply any affiliation with a political party. I have never been a member of a political party...and as long as I am involved in municipal politics, I pledge never to belong to a party.
This endorsement does not imply any affiliation with a political party. I have never been a member of a political party...and as long as I am involved in municipal politics, I pledge never to belong to a party.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Times Colonist Election Notes
More info on the municipal elections is available on the web. The Times Colonist website is running "Election Notes" You can find it here:
http://communities.canada.com/victoriatimescolonist/blogs/electionnotebook/default.aspx
They've just posted an article on candidate websites. My website is even mentioned! Just a reminder that if you ever need someone to build a website for you Louise from Dreaming in Colour is absolutely amazing. I don't think you'll find someone nicer or more talented!
http://communities.canada.com/victoriatimescolonist/blogs/electionnotebook/default.aspx
They've just posted an article on candidate websites. My website is even mentioned! Just a reminder that if you ever need someone to build a website for you Louise from Dreaming in Colour is absolutely amazing. I don't think you'll find someone nicer or more talented!
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Updated Links
I've added some new links. Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce has posted a questionnaire that they sent to all municipal candidates. Plan Victoria has a spot for all municipal candidates to post their platforms and their bios. Citizen Canine also sent a questionnaire out to all the municipal candidates and will be publishing thier results shortly.
Victoria Vision is a great spot to gather info too.
In addition to those...I've had several from interested members of the community. Another one today! Don't hesitate to send me your questions...I love it!
Victoria Vision is a great spot to gather info too.
In addition to those...I've had several from interested members of the community. Another one today! Don't hesitate to send me your questions...I love it!
Friday, October 3, 2008
Esquimalt Website Improvement
I just came back from Municipal Hall and I have some good news. It looks like I won't have to stop by there on Friday afternoons anymore. The Agenda packages are available online! Check out: www.esquimalt.ca Sometimes these packages are more than 200 pages long...so this is a really positive way for the township to reduce paper as well.
Thanks to our Esquimalt staff who worked hard to make this happen!
Thanks to our Esquimalt staff who worked hard to make this happen!
Friday, August 22, 2008
Tales of my Fleeting Youth
My children think that I grew up in a quaint and charming time. No home computers, no iPods, no microwaves and no DVDs. Yesterday, they were spellbound, as I told the true tale of the first video rental stores. Places where you rented not only the video, but the VCR as well. My kids are growing up in a different world than I did.
The point is...I am not young anymore. In fact, I think the only place where I am regularly the youngest person in the room is in Council Chambers. That concerns me. I would love to see a more diverse range of ages actively taking part.
Ladysmith has just announced that they are undergoing a "Community Sustainability Visioning Process" with HB Lanarc Consultants. This process includes launching a new website- www.definingthefuture.ca designed to maximize opportunities for public participation. In the press release, Mayor Rob Hutchins comments, "We also hope to engage youth through our presence on sites such as Flickr, MySpace and Facebook."
I'm really interested in seeing how this process engages youth in Ladysmith. I'd love to see more young people at Esquimalt Council meetings. I'd be happy to welcome them with my spellbinding tales of BetaVision and 8-tracks.
The point is...I am not young anymore. In fact, I think the only place where I am regularly the youngest person in the room is in Council Chambers. That concerns me. I would love to see a more diverse range of ages actively taking part.
Ladysmith has just announced that they are undergoing a "Community Sustainability Visioning Process" with HB Lanarc Consultants. This process includes launching a new website- www.definingthefuture.ca designed to maximize opportunities for public participation. In the press release, Mayor Rob Hutchins comments, "We also hope to engage youth through our presence on sites such as Flickr, MySpace and Facebook."
I'm really interested in seeing how this process engages youth in Ladysmith. I'd love to see more young people at Esquimalt Council meetings. I'd be happy to welcome them with my spellbinding tales of BetaVision and 8-tracks.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Lights, Camera = No Action?
Recently I posted about the City of N. Vancouver's website. I expressed my appreciation for the ability to watch Council meetings on live streaming video or as an archived video. Since posting that, I've had some emails and been asked a very thoughtful question:
"Would being filmed discourage members of the public from speaking at or attending a meeting?"
This is a valid concern. I firmly believe that we need to encourage people to speak...not scare people away. I personally have an aversion to being filmed so I truly understand the concern.
However,I think there is real merit to having totally transparent meetings. Reading the Minutes does not give a person the same flavour as watching the proceedings.
If you've been reading this blog, you might have guessed that I like to talk...and talk...and talk...so when I do speak as a member of the public at meetings I often use up the full 2 minutes. In the Minutes, my little speech, by necessity, has to be condensed to a few short lines. Although I would probably cringe if I watched myself on tape...I would appreciate that my entire speech was captured. For me, if I feel strongly enough to get up and speak about something, I want to make sure that there is a full public record of it.
For me personally, knowing that the meeting was filmed and archived, would actually be a comfort.
I LOVE that this has generated good discussion already! What do YOU think? Would having a Council meeting filmed encourage or discourage YOU from getting up and speaking?
"Would being filmed discourage members of the public from speaking at or attending a meeting?"
This is a valid concern. I firmly believe that we need to encourage people to speak...not scare people away. I personally have an aversion to being filmed so I truly understand the concern.
However,I think there is real merit to having totally transparent meetings. Reading the Minutes does not give a person the same flavour as watching the proceedings.
If you've been reading this blog, you might have guessed that I like to talk...and talk...and talk...so when I do speak as a member of the public at meetings I often use up the full 2 minutes. In the Minutes, my little speech, by necessity, has to be condensed to a few short lines. Although I would probably cringe if I watched myself on tape...I would appreciate that my entire speech was captured. For me, if I feel strongly enough to get up and speak about something, I want to make sure that there is a full public record of it.
For me personally, knowing that the meeting was filmed and archived, would actually be a comfort.
I LOVE that this has generated good discussion already! What do YOU think? Would having a Council meeting filmed encourage or discourage YOU from getting up and speaking?
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