A series of guest rants by the one and only, Harvenut Puritan.
Harvenut and Uncle Block attended Grade 1 together at Hamilton's Central Public School back in 1960-61. Both were Popeye aficionados and referred to themselves as, "The Fighting Pals."
Their friendship has endured to this day.
Hi folks, Puritan here. I hope everyone is well. I've decided to take a short hiatus because I'm imagining everybody is experiencing some sort of gloom and are worried about the Coronavirus. I know my E.A. (Executive Assistant) and I are very concerned and anxious about the outbreak. It's killing people, taking control of our lives and paralyzing the economy.
I watched President Trump on T.V. the other day, and he stated the F.D.A. (Food and Drug Administration) was working around the clock trying to develop a vaccine for this deadly disease. He constantly praised the organization and also said they are very close to finding a cure. We can only hope. With any luck some country's regime will discover a remedy for this dreadful chaos.
I wish all of you good health and please use common sense. I will return in the near future.
If you tell a lie big enough and keep repeating it people will eventually come to believe it. Joseph Goebbels (1897-1945)
Prelude
Many people enjoy telling stories. Then there're the individuals who like to convey the same story into a tall tale and exaggerate simple details so their version is similar to an Academy Award screenplay. Throughout my life I've personally known a few of these story tellers. To a certain degree their story might be true, but they want to mold and enhance their account so it becomes more interesting, However at the same time they may mislead people with the actual facts and truth.
There isn't a week goes by we don't hear or read about the so-called man-made Climate Change. It use to be called Global Warming but I suspect our "benevolent" politicians became bored with the term and wanted a more catchy label. The media has made this a part of the population's every day life. The education system is exploiting their pupils and students with the belief that if something isn't done soon the world will be annihilated.
I find it ever so laughable when politicians declare war on climate change but do very little or nothing about it. Maybe deep inside their minds they know it's a scam. Nevertheless an article in Hamilton News on Feb. 8/20 stated our Hamilton City Council (dazed and confused as usual) weren't going to deal with certain issues because of the 2020 budget. One of them was climate change. Meanwhile this same "competent" group proclaimed a climate emergency with a fully-fledged task force to combat the crisis according to an article in CBC News March 18/19. Isn't if funny that this alleged climate emergency is suddenly not that important anymore. Numerous times I ask myself the question, "Are the people "managing" this city for real?" We can't forget about Justin (damn it will someone please take my picture) Trudeau. He declared a climate emergency in June 2019 but it appears he's ignored the "dilemma". Sometimes people should laugh at politicians directly into their face because they're so shady and that's all they deserve.
My Executive Assistant and I watched a P.B.S. (Public Broadcast System) episode on Nova which aired on Jan. 17/20 titled, "The Planets-Jupiter". It was very educational and truly informative. Jupiter has "played" a major part with earth's history with some fascinating facts. A feature in U.S.A. Today on May 7, 2018 stated the orbits of Jupiter and Venus affect earth's climate and has been going on for 215 million years.
An article in Smithsonian Magazine May 9, 2018 reported scientists state planetary alignments do affect some things on earth causing hotter summers, colder winters and drier droughts. Venus and Jupiter's gravity can cause shifts in earth's orbit. It can also generate swings in climate every 405,000 years.
I'm not a scientist. In fact I had absolutely no interest in science during my elementary and high school education. However I do fully agree with a long time friend of mine who believes something is going on. Is it man-made or maybe, just maybe it is the cosmos.
Now let me talk about that miserable looking and angry Swedish girl. If you don't know who I'm talking about I'll enlighten you. Her name is Greta Thunberg. She's 17 years old and was born in Stockholm, Sweden. Greta is a climate change activist and undoubtedly made a name for herself. Liberals throughout the world and especially the U.N. (United Nations) adore this little tree-hugger.
According to Wikipedia, Greta first heard about climate change when she was 8 years old and couldn't understand why so little was being done about this "plight". It made her depressed and she lost 22 lbs. in two months. Finally Greta was diagnosed with Asperger syndrome, obsessive-compulsive disorder and selective mutism.
She intrigues a lot of people including myself. The teenager travels the world to promote her views on climate change. She's appeared at the U.N. in New York, Montreal, Alberta and Santigo, Chile. This young liberal has won several honours and scholarships but if she receives cash she donates it to charity. Hmm, why not climate change organizations? Supposedly her parents pay for the tickets and accommodations when she's sightseeing. The tourist also claims she doesn't work for anyone and her gigs are for free. I wonder if the globe trotter has future plans to visit India or China.
The thoughtful environmentalist was named 2019 Person of the Year and made the front page of Time Magazine. Does our "trooper" realize she is included with some evil people like Adolf Hitler-1938, Joseph Stalin-1939,1942, Nikita Krushchev-1957 and Ayatollah Kmomeini-1979? I'm very curious to hear her reaction.
Whenever I watch videos of Greta I find it very entertaining. She is so serious and her script appears to be written professionally. What's even more amusing is when she said "How dare you!" We can't forget about her facial expressions. Her mean and nasty looks are hilarious but truly priceless. Maybe the annoyed little girl isn't really annoyed. Is it possible all this climate change mumbo-jumbo is a front for her becoming a future Hollywood starlet like Dakota Fanning, Jennifer Lawrence or Blake Lively. You can fool some of the people some of the time but you can't fool all the people all of the time.
Epilogue
There's not a doubt in my mind N.A.S.A. (National Aeronautics Space Administration) knows a lot more on what's occurring "up there" than they're willing to reveal. So come on Greta, it's not all that bad. You should be happy you're alive and healthy. Life is full of surprises so enjoy your teenage years. In spite of that, the way you're "playing" this climate change disaster the world population might see you as a top rated Hollywood actress. If someone asks you about climate change while you're sitting by the pool in your Hollywood mansion your reply would be, "What climate change? It's the solar system."
The End
The Harvenut Puritan Project
Puritan will return with "Incompetence: Some Things Never Change"
It's beyond being bad, it's embarrassing - Barbara Turner (1936-2016)
It's a very embarrassing moment - Judy Jacobs (1957-)
Prelude
Embarrassment is an uncomfortable situation that occurs in people's lives and I'm willing to bet five will get you ten they would be quite willing to avoid. There are different degrees of feeling shameful and being a fool. I think it's safe to say a high majority of people have experienced at least one humiliating incident. It can happen to old and young alike. No one is exempt.
I must admit I've had more than enough sheepish phenomenon in my life but I recall four that I would really like to forget.
October 1971
Westmount High School Football Field
It was a warm autumn afternoon and my phys. ed. class was playing flag football outside. The only difference (at that time) between the two sports was each player had to wear pieces of vinyl that measured 12 inches long and 2 inches wide that would be tucked into the person's shorts at his hips. Instead of tackling the ball carrier the defense would remove the flag and the play would be whistled dead.
The quarterback pitched the ball to me and I ran a sweep. When my opponent removed my flag my face turned beet red. The "tackler" had ripped my blue gym shorts entirely off my body. To make matters more uneasy I was standing in my white underwear directly facing six girls who were wearing their blue bloomer style gym suits. As I remember they were really decent about the whole event. As far as my phys. ed. class went, let me just say you could hear the laughter blocks away. Everyone was in stitches even my teacher.
Since I played senior high school football I asked my teacher for the keys to the change room, ran to don my football pants and quickly returned to my flag football game. It didn't take me long to think it could have been a lot worse. I might not of been wearing underwear.
May 1979
The Aquarium Restaurant
It was my first date with a young lady I had been set up with by a friend. I was truly impressed with her. She was very attractive and had a lovely personality. I always had a taste for lobster (I still do) so I decided to order the seafood delight and she had prime rib.
Both of us enjoyed our meals and got to know each other better. When the bill arrived I was in shock. The check was a lot more than I expected and I was short s substantial amount of cash. Instantly anxiety entered my body asking will I be washing dishes in the kitchen? Finally I told her my dilemma. As it turned out she had a great sense of humour and didn't think it was a big deal. The lady paid the remainder of the tab. I honestly thought when it was time to ask her out again she would say no. As it turned out we continued to see each other months after my "Night At The Aquarium."
October 1984, 7:50 p.m.
North east corner Barton Street and Strathearne
I was involved in another blind date. This time a very good friend's wife had arranged a get together with her cousin who was visiting "Steel Town" for the weekend. She was a model and lived in Toronto. The instant I laid my eyes on her they almost popped out of their sockets. She was without a doubt a model, tall and drop-dead gorgeous. Anyway, the four of us had a few drinks at a bar but decided to leave the roadhouse to pursue another watering hole. As we made our way to my friend's car I felt an urge to release my bladder and tried to repel my natural bodily function but it was absolutely impossible. Seconds later I peed my pants. It wasn't just a dribble (I could've been so lucky) but a full load. To make matters worse I was wearing blue jean pants so the stain was quite visible. I approached my buddy, told him my predicament and asked him to drive me home. My embarrassment was overwhelming.
Within an hour there was a knock at my door and the trio were standing there holding adult beverages and munchies. They assured me it was too early to call it a night. When the evening finally came to a close the model and I ended up standing on my porch talking and I eventually asker her out for a date. I was amazed, she accepted my request.
The following Friday night I drove to Toronto and we had a nice dinner at a restaurant. Suddenly I had a gut feeling my future with this stunning beauty wasn't going to germinate. After our meal I drove the bombshell home. While we stood on her porch I asked the belle out on another date but this time she said no. I kind of expected that reply. We kissed goodnight never to see each other again.
As I drove back to the once "Ambitious City" I wasn't upset or hurt. For some odd reason I felt out of her league. Don't get me wrong, she wasn't conceited or full of herself. On the contrary, this lady was truly personable and down to earth. In other words she came across as a very open and moral person. What I'm trying to say is I probably couldn't deal with her lifestyle. However I can honestly say I dated a model.
November 2019
Hill Park Recreation Center
Throughout my life one of my favourite pastimes has been swimming. I consider it relaxing, a great stress reliever and an excellent form of exercise. My activity consisted of three times a week and twenty-five minutes a day. As usual I was standing on the pool deck waiting for the Water Fit group to finish. Just as the class ended and the participants started to leave the pool my swimming trunks dropped to my ankles. Within a blink of an eye I pulled them back up. You can imagine what was going through my mind. I was worried sick someone would make a complaint and I would charged with indecent exposure. Oddly enough there wasn't any repercussions. Luck was definitely on my side that day.
Epilogue
Life is full of surprises. Odds are in our favour sooner or later an uncomfortable event will happen in our lives. I look at it as Murphy's Law Principle. If anything can go wrong it will.
The End
The Harvenut Puritan Project
Puritan will return with "Young and Hapless"
I find this time of the year puts most people in the spirit of cheerfulness and delight. Sadly though, some individuals have difficulty celebrating because of tragedy that has occurred in their lives. Why fate has dealt certain humans sorrowful cards has always saddened and bewildered me.
As usual, this year never had a dull moment. For starters, more than just a few Canadians (not a huge amount but enough) re-elected Justin (pretty please take my picture) Trudeau for another term as Canada's Prime Minister. Every now and then I shake my head in disgust and ask out loud, "What do the blindsided voters see in this immature and unqualified person who has never worked a day in his life, who lives in Wonderland?" Then we have the Ontario teachers that are just never happy. I can't forget about our "beloved" Hamilton City Council because of its tradition of bungling leadership. I'm talking about the potential 5.5% increase in property taxes and their mismanagement (some things never change) of the city's wastewater. Of course, I'm referring to the leakage of TWENTY-FOUR BILLION liters of human waste that started to contaminate our environment. The rats will be happy because it will be a huge feast for them.
Anyway, it's the festive season so let's try to think about cheerful thoughts instead of dishonest and untrustworthy politicians. On a genuine happier note, I'm delighted to say two new people decided to make an entrance into the world this year. My E.A.'s (Executive Assistant) son had a baby boy and long-time good friends of mine welcomed a granddaughter (their first grandchild) to join the rest of the population. Once again, congratulations and hopefully everything is wonderful. Five will get you ten Santa Claus will be very generous to the newborns in future years.
As I have specified many times Christmas is a marvelous time for most people. It's the season to spend quality time with family and friends, exchange gifts, but more importantly, be grateful we're alive and kicking.
Epilogue
I hope everyone can enjoy this Yuletide experience and forget all the chaos that lingers. Eat, drink and be merry. Celebrate and have fun.
MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR!
The End
The Harvenut Puritan Project
Puritan will return in 2020
On a less boyant note, your tireless editor has just finished working on, what I consider to be, my most spectacular movie production to date. With any luck, it will garner at least 25 views.
So sit back in your comfy chair and grab some popcorn.
The most terrifying words in the English language: I'm from the Government and I'm here to help. Ronald Reagan (1911-2004)
Prelude
I don't know how you folks feel but I always become ever so amused a few months before an election. I think it's absolute entertainment. I regard the pre-game undertakings nothing more than shenanigans. However, it's so comical to read about which "warm-hearted" politician has more to offer in his/her treat and goodie bag than their opponents. I'm also truly fascinated by how these "thoughtful and considerate" attention seekers will almost sell their souls to acquire votes. I deem it absolutely hilarious how these so-called compassionate phonies preach all their vows and pledges so everyone will rejoice. Without question, it's very witty but moreover remarkably sickening the way they try to influence the electorate with their sweet talk.
First of all, let's take a look at the N.D.P. (New Democratic Party). Once again they sing a lovely melody and continue to have a "caring" attitude towards Canadians. Traditionally their feather-brain platforms are an astronomical cost and this past pre-game show was no different. For example, $10 billion for universal pharmacare, $5 billion to "fight climate change", $17 billion for affordable housing and provide $1 billion for not-to-profit childcare. Such a generous bunch of loving and unselfish flock.
I never imagined our country would welcome yet another political party that also "seriously cares" about Canadians. The group I'm talking about call themselves the Green Party and were born in 1983. I viewed their proposals just as humorous and laughable as the N.D.P. agenda. They wanted to implement a national pharmacare program that would cost $145 billion over five years and free dental care for low-income Canadians as well as $5 billion for universal childcare. However, their priority is the environment, specifically, the alleged "man-made climate change". I must add this considerate group was suggesting free post-secondary education for everyone.
This frivolous and reckless breed stated they would increase the corporate tax rate from 15 to 21 percent if elected...a very dangerous gang. In addition, I considered their plan of lowering the voting age to sixteen years old as utterly farcical and preposterous. In other words, completely ridiculous. In spite of that, I understand their crafty scheme. Manipulate the kids in their teenage years on certain issues..."climate change" enters my mind. I can only fathom what the "system" is teaching the children in school, probably a lot of exaggeration of climate change. Anyway, by the time the youngsters are adolescents (and ready to vote at sixteen) Canada's voting map could have fifty shades of green. Personally, I perceive this as a very sickening political technique. I will always continue to say if the Green Party is ever leading the "parade" you and I might encounter the horse and buggy days. Overall the N.D.P. and Green herds climbed out of their rabbit holes and proclaimed their idea so there will be constant sunshine and gaiety for all of us. I'm extremely happy that not too many voters "bought" their kindness and generosity...yet.
I won't elaborate on the Liberals or Conservatives' objectives because by now you've probably had enough of the bullshit. However, I will say I voted for the P.P.C. (Peoples Party of Canada). It really infuriated me when I heard those boneheaded ignoramuses relate Maxime Bernier to a Nazi. If he's a Nazi then I'm a communist. I liked his mindset and found him to be extremely logical. The man wasn't trying to entice taxpayers with his goodie bag like the other "genuine" characters because as he puts it, "Canada's credit card is full". Don't you find it truly questionable he was the only candidate willing to talk about "climate change" and immigration?
So Trudeau (a.k.a. I never worked a day in my life) succeeded to sneak in to become Canada's leader once again. Voting for a political party is similar to a movie...some people enjoy the film and others dislike it. But really, TRUDEAU AGAIN! Do I have to remind all these Liberal admirers here's the guy who violated some Canadian ethics laws? What about showing sympathy and support for ex I.S.I.S. fighters returning to Canada? That is ABSOLUTELY OUTRAGEOUS AND COMPLETELY APPALLING!
Be prepared to expect more refugees entering "good old Canada". Trudeau's regime has a figure of 350,000 new faces (per year) planning to make Canada their new home. I'm not against immigration but don't these "caring Liberals" become conscious of the fact that their goal is excessive and unreasonable. Damn it, these "crusaders" couldn't handle the last group of refugees, specifically their shelter.
We can't forget how "Blackface" adores China's economic system and Fidel Castro (1926-2016). Is he (will someone pretty please take my picture) too callow and wet behind the ears to realize Castro was a ruthless dictator? Remember folks, all of us will be opening up our wallets because of his carbon tax scam. Yep, nothing more I like than financially supporting the government. This would-be kingpin was born with a silver spoon in his mouth and doesn't appear to be connected to reality. Overall my viewpoint is he's an embarrassment and disgrace to our country.
Epilogue
So the entertainment won't be around for another three years when we will be "blessed with" an Ontario provincial election. Don't worry though, same teams playing in the "game" as in the previous federal election with the exception of the P.P.C. I can hardly wait to see what kind of treats and goodies those "caring leaders" have to offer us. Stay tuned because it will be a laugh and a half.
The End
The Harvenut Puritan Project
Puritan will return with "It's That Time Of Year Again"
It is not an arrogant government that chooses priorities, it's an irresponsible government that fails to choose. Tony Blair (1953-)
Prelude
The word procrastination is in every government's policy and procedure playbook. It's very similar to a sports team's playbook that have their game plans and strategies for all sorts of situations. However, these so-called administrators take their time to investigate certain issues that may be crucial and urgent. For some strange and unexpected reason, they don't consider some serious conditions or situations the same way their constituents see things. In their own judgment the analysis and interpretation of the problem is far different than what the taxpayer is thinking. There is a good chance the dispute will be a long drawn-out disagreement and therefore many folks will label the government's rationale as truly irresponsible.
I live in Hamilton, Ontario and have heard, read and personally experienced more than enough times how the city drags their feet on certain affairs. One episode that I can reflect on is the constant flooding problem of homeowners' basements in the east end of the city after a rainstorm. We can only hope the "caring councilors" finally fixed the dilemma because it took them a lengthy time to tackle the homeowners' misfortune. In my opinion absolutely disgraceful and disgusting on the politician's behalf.
As stated, I have been subject to the wheels of government that move extremely slow. Not too long ago I was sitting at my writing table in front of the living room window modifying another book I'm in the midst of doing. Every so often I will look out the window and enjoy the landscape of the neighborhood or just daydream for a few moments and watch the world go by. Be that as it may, I gandered out the window and saw something on my neighbor's asphalt driveway. Within a split second I said out loud, "Is that what I think it is?" Without hesitation, I immediately stood up and yelled to my E.A. (Executive Assistant), "I see a fucking rat." I dashed outside and grabbed a long, wooden-handled, round mouth, metal shovel for my killing implement and rushed over to my neighbor's home but by the time I arrived the rat was gone.
The following is the chronological events that took place after I saw the eerie creature.
Thursday, Aug. 1/19 - After the rat had disappeared I phoned Ward 7 Councillor Ester Pauls' office to lodge a complaint and left a message.
Friday, Aug. 2/19 - Councillor Pauls' assistant replied to my call and stated she would contact the appropriate "powers to be" regarding my gripe.
Tuesday, Aug. 6/19 - Councillor Pauls' assistant phoned me and asked if anyone had contacted me regarding my problem. I told her no.
Friday, Aug.9/19 - A representative from the Health Department phoned and asked me a few questions. The official also stated they will have someone to inspect the area for any rat nests.
Thursday, Aug. 15/19 - Received a letter in the mail from The City of Hamilton about information with respect to rats.
Since part of the municipality's network consists of public safety such as health, I deem the time frame for my unease extremely unacceptable. In my opinion, this case should've been considered as major importance. I had to laugh (in disgust) when I noticed the City's return mailing address, it read Health Protection Division, Attention: Health Hazards Program. WOW! Sounds really serious and caring. "They" come across as if they're no-nonsense and have great intentions...if only they did. As far as I'm concerned the professional titles demonstrate a completely wrong impression. After I read the letter I said to my E.A., "Five will get you ten that's all these phony bolognies are going to do. Another group that reminds me of the U.N. (United Nations), plenty of talk but little action. I received a chuckle from Ms. Pauls' assistant when she suggested I talk to my neighbours and have them invest in rat traps. She then added the area will be rat-free. Later on, I analyzed her statement and thought very interesting. It almost seems like the city doesn't want to deal with the problem and let the homeowners cope with it.
Rats have been spotted at various times throughout my neighbourhood. My neighbour across the street mentioned he's caught six in his trap. Another neighbour stated she saw a rat and decided to place rat poison in her backyard. An additional neighbour told me there was a dead rat on the street in front of his house.
The City of Hamilton web site states the risk of rats spreading disease is low. Here we go again. Government trying to disguise a potentially critical health and safety matter into nothing more than seeing a squirrel on your front lawn. I would really like to hear the city's definition of low. More bureaucratic smoke and mirrors from our "illustrious" big top performers. From what I researched, rats can be very dangerous. Their bite or scratch can cause Leptospirosis (bleeding from the lungs), meningitis, Lassa fever, and bubonic plague. However, there is an ongoing debate if rats are actually related to the Black Death. Despite that, their droppings and urine can be dangerous and harmful.
An article in CBC news on July 15/15 that was titled, "Rat infestation will only get worse warns Hamilton Public Health" was without a doubt truly upsetting and frightening. The write-up also mentioned The City of Hamilton included in their budget a new part-time health inspector to deal with rat complaints. WAIT A MINUTE, JUST HOLD ON A MINUTE. PART-TIME. What the hell does that mean? Once again, I shake my head in disgust. These "circus stars" spend millions of dollars on bike lanes and two-way conversions but create a part-time position for a serious health concern. It's so typical of these architects of pandemonium.
CH news stated in an article on Nov. 14/18 that Okin Canada (a pest control company) named Hamilton the fifth rattiest city in the country for the second year in a row. I knew this city would achieve top ten status for something sooner or later. Wouldn't it be logical to hire a couple of full-time rat busters? Golly gee, that's probably too difficult of a decision for our Big Top players to determine. So I think it's safe to say the invasion of rats in Hamilton is a major health and safety problem. But the city hall gang take on this obstacle in their own subtle way or better said, the lack of complete concern and dedication. However, when budget time appears to increase our taxes their behaviours are repressed eagerness.
Epilogue
Our "city leaders" have developed this system. Why they perform this inappropriate conduct is beyond me. It's just another example of how the government succeeds in frustrating, disappointing and angering taxpayers. Without a doubt, it generates a bad reputation of their actions. But we must remember they don't believe or promote competition for any of their services. So we must ask ourselves, do they really care. They say they do but then again these blunderers are accomplished wizards of deception and organized confusion. Recently a long-time good friend of mine told me, "Between rodents and politicians rats are everywhere."
The End
The Harvenut Puritan Project
Puritan will return with "The Joker Is Wild: Uncertain Honesty"
Editor's Notes:
Maybe Bad Orange Man was on to something?
1
2
Health Canada advises human consumption of rat poison.
Disease is the biggest moneymaker in our economy. John H. Tobe (1906-1979)
As long as greed is stronger than compassion, there will always be suffering. Rusty Eric (birthdate unknown)
Why give the cure when disease makes money. Tabil Kweli (1975-)
Language is a virus, money is a nasty disease. Jonathon Barnbrook (1966-)
Prelude
Sadly some people have very little conscience when it comes to certain commodities. They probably have an inner feeling towards their behaviour in a conceited, arrogant and selfish manner. Yes, once again I'm talking about money. We all know money makes the world go round, always has and always will. Everyone loves money but certain individuals are obsessed. They are so fixated with moolah they may place human life at risk.
Numerous epidemics have occurred throughout the history of the world. They were tragic and millions of people died, such as The Black Death aka Bubonic Plague from 1347-1351. Sources estimate 75-200 million people perished. The Cocoitzli Epidemic in 1576 of New Spain (present-day Mexico) where millions of people passed away. It was similar to the Spanish Flu from 1918-1920 where 50-100 million folks passed on. The Asian Flu in 1957 took 1-2 million lives and the Hong Kong Flu of 1968 was responsible for 1-4 million human beings loss of life. We can't forget about H.I.V. (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) aka A.I.D.S. which made it's debut in the 1960s (so "they" say) and has been responsible for 25 million deaths.
Out of all the above epidemics/diseases (call them whatever you want) they only one that is still alive and kicking is A.I.D.S. The other outbreaks were finally conquered and terminated by medical ingenuity. I think it's safe to say pharmaceutical companies played a principal part in some of the final outcomes. Speaking of drug companies or shall I say thriving enterprises, an article in The Motley Fool on July 31, 2016 stated the total revenue of the global pharmaceutical market was $1.05 trillion. The write up also included, of the $1.05 trillion roughly $515 billion comes from Canada and the United States.
We all know someone, whether it was a loved one or a friend that have had their life cut short due to cancer. Being the year 2019 I find it extremely strange and can't understand that cancer hasn't been cured for once and for all. According to an article in Forbes in 2015 the global market for cancer drugs could be $147 billion by 2018, any guesses what it would be now. However, the story did specify in 1990 half of the cancer patients survived after five years of diagnosis. The write up went on to say now two-thirds do. Nevertheless, the question is for how long? It's always lovely and wonderful to hear women who have beaten breast cancer. Maybe it's similar to prostate cancer, if it's diagnosed early enough it can be treated and wiped out.
Get a load of these staggering and upsetting facts from the National Cancer Institute. Most cancer drugs that commenced between 2009-2014 were priced at more than $100,000 per patient for one year of treatment. More recently the cost is $400,000 a year for medication. Isn't that a happy thought. Now really, are "they" for real? Who can afford that kind of expense? I find it fucking crooked and outrageous. The organization also said one drug can cost $120,000 a year. Isn't it frightening enough someone is identified with cancer and now has to exhaust their life savings or apply for a second mortgage to combat their disease? What is really heartbreaking a lot of the times those drugs have no effect on a patient's future. Sadly I use my E.A.'s (Executive Assistant) niece as an example who passed away in 2001 at the age of thirteen. However, drug companies are happy because their revenue is always escalating.
I haven't forgotten about Kevin Trudeau. In case you aren't aware he's no relation to Justin (I never worked a day in my life) Trudeau. Kevin was the author of a book titled "Natural Cures "They" Don't Want YOU TO KNOW" which was published in 2007. As I stated in a previous rant, I watched him on T.V. when he disclosed The University of Calgary in Alberta had found the cure to cancer. In spite of that the F.D.A. (Food and Drug Administration) found out about the remedy and very quickly put a kibosh on the entire matter. Whether the story is true or just a tall tale you make the call. Personally, I believed it occurred.
We all know there are numerous caring, thoughtful and good-hearted people in the world especially in Canada and the U.S. Many folks volunteer their time and participate in cancer fundraisers such as walkathons, skate-a-thons, and bowl-a-thons. Other individuals will donate some of their cash to help annihilate the ghastly disease. I tip my hat to those hard-working and generous mortals. Nevertheless, it continues to puzzle and mystify me why cancer hasn't been eliminated.
Now for some alarming and hair-raising facts. John Selfrin was C.E.O. (Chief Executive Officer) for the American Cancer Society for twenty-three years. In one year he earned $856,442 as well as an extra $77,859 as President for the ACS (Cancer Action Network). So much for donating money to a worthwhile cause. An article in Slate on Feb. 7/13 stated the National Cancer Institute spent $90 billion on research and treatment forty years after a "war" was declared on cancer. I don't recall any war lasting that long. Sooner or later all wars come to an end but this campaign doesn't want to cease. In the same report, the National Cancer Institute stated funding has averaged $9 billion a year in the past six years. Why shouldn't it? As long as the donors give away their money the management running this racket are absolutely ecstatic. Last, but certainly not least, an article in CBC News on July 6/11 said the Canadian Cancer Society had proportionally shifted finances away from research and "spending more of its dollars" on fundraising and administrative costs. Sounds like a typical government, priorities are upside down. Who cares about the patients anyway? Very, very sinister.
Epilogue
It would be so satisfying to say this whole cancer phenomenon is a myth but unfortunately, this horrible walk with the devil has devastated numerous human lives. Drug companies are like banks. Their sole purpose is to make money, lot's of money. Cancer and A.I.D.S. patients may spend thousands of dollars a month on prescription drugs with no guarantee of a cure. This episode has been creating misery for people too long. Once again, why is cancer still lingering? We certainly can't leave the government out of this deadly and fatal scam.
The End
The Harvenut Puritan Project
Puritan will return with "Heebie-Jeebies"
A fascinating account of how the communists in South Africa dealt with the AIDS crisis there.
