Top Stories
Thousands of Monks in Burma to be imprisoned Thousands more reported dead. Singer Britney Spears loses custody battle A court ruling has today decided that pop singer Britney Spears will have to give up custody of her children by noon Wednesday as ex-husband, Kevin Federline, wins court case in Los Angeles

Featured story
Bat for Lashes plays the Bowery Ballroom: an Interview with Natasha Khan Musician Natasha Khan spoke recently with Wikinews about art, transvestism and drug use in the music business.

Wikipedia Current Events
President of Russia Vladimir Putin announces he will run on his party's list in the parliamentary elections in December and that he does not exclude the option of becoming Prime Minister of Russia after the election. Ukrainian parliamentary election, 2007: With 70 percent counted, Timoshenko's bloc and Yushchenko's Our Ukraine party had 48 percent of the vote. Prime Minister Viktor Yanukovych's party and his Communist and Socialist allies had 36.8 percent. At least 15 people are killed and 19 others injured in a suspected suicide bomb blast in Bannu in Pakistan's North-West Frontier Province.

DOW Jone closes at all-time record high
The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at a new all-time record high at 14,087.55 or up 191.92 points (+%1.38).

Other markets closed up as well. the Nasdaq Composite closed at 2,740.99 which is +39.49 points (+%1.46), the highest close in almost seven years. The S&P 500 index also closed up +20.29 points (+%1.33) to close at 1,547.03.

The last all-time high record for the DOW was 14,000.41 which was achieved on July 19. This is the second time the DJIA has ever closed above 14,000 since its debut on May 26, 1896.

Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with Progessive Conservative candidate Tyler Currie, Trinity-Spadina
Tyler Currie is running as an Progessive Conservative candidate in the Ontario provincial election, in the riding of Trinity-Spadina. Wikinews' Nick Moreau interviewed him regarding his values, his experience, and his campaign.

Stay tuned for further interviews; every candidate from every party is eligible, and will be contacted. Expect interviews from Liberals, Progressive Conservatives, New Democratic Party members, Ontario Greens, as well as members from the Family Coalition, Freedom, Communist, Libertarian, and Confederation of Regions parties, as well as independents.

Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? Why did you choose to run in this constituency?

I have been involved in the political process for a number of years now, stemming from my father’s two terms as a city councillor. My decision to run as a candidate was based on two things. First, I am very concerned with the cynicism I hear from people about politics, the political process, and most importantly, the politicians. With voter turnouts going down each and every year, and then four years of a McGuinty government that only made peoples’ cynicism worse, I was motivated to do what I could to change that. And that brings up my second reason, and his name is John Tory. He represents everything that politics and leadership should be. It’s about selfless public service, accountability, respecting tax payers, carrying a strong social conscience, and keeping your word.

What prior political experience do you have? What skills and insight can you bring to office, from other non-political positions you may have held?

I have served on the Executive of the local Riding Association for the Progressive Conservative Party, and was an elected member of the student government at the University of Toronto. I bring a badly needed level of energy to office, matching the requirements of a young, vibrant riding in downtown Toronto, and something that is sorely lacking by the current representative who has been stale with his ideas, lacking in his momentum, weak in his influence, and dwindling in his motivation and effort to represent this riding to the level that it deserves. In a riding with so many students and young professionals, I offer a voice that reflects their interests, while understanding and appreciating the greater diversity of our area as well. I’m driven by results, and we have not had results in this riding for the past 17 years under the current representation.

Which of your competitors do you expect to pose the biggest challenge to your candidacy? Why?

They are all fine people and worthy opponents. The incumbent is always the biggest challenge in an election, and I welcome the opportunity to compare ideas, thoughts, and visions for this city and our province. And regardless of the end result, it is imperative that we all maintain our commitment to improving our community by working together.

What makes you the most desirable of all candidates running in the riding?

For 17 years, we have had an NDP representative who has sat in the opposition backbenches for the most part. This has meant that the voices of Trinity-Spadina residents has been soft, and getting real action to improve their lives locally has been the unfortunate result. Together with a John Tory government, I will provide a voice within a governing body to ensure that Trinity-Spadina’s needs and concerns are finally addressed adequately and appropriately. Knowing Mr. Tory, who is a lifelong Torontonian, this partnership will be a prosperous one for this riding. Our party’s leader believes that your word isn’t just important – it’s EVERYTHING. I proudly share that principle, and I know the residents of Trinity-Spadina share it as well.

What do you feel are the three most important issues to voters in your riding? Are these the same top three issues that are most important to you? What would you do to address these issues?

As the only candidate in the three major parties to actually live in Trinity-Spadina, I share the sentiments of my fellow Trinity-Spadina residents in pointing out these three issues in particular:

Toronto’s fiscal situation. Currently, Toronto is having financial issues and the City Council is looking to implement taxation powers granted to them under the City of Toronto Act, which will look to pay for its shortfall by reaching into the pockets of hardworking Torontonians. I feel like there’s enough money coming out of their pockets already. John Tory will ensure that the city is spending their money efficiently, and will then operate under the theme that property tax money should be used primarily for LOCAL programs. This means that we will look to begin uploading social services following a provincial-municipal review that will be ready in time for Toronto’s next budget and a PC government’s first budget. Additionally, a John Tory government will put all $1.1-billion in Gas Tax revenues into Transportation, including $800-million in Public Transit---$150-million in the first year, with much of that going to the GTA.

Taxes. In addition to the local taxes that Toronto residents fear will be coming down the pipes, they are suffering immeasurably from the rapidly escalating property taxes they are faced with. Some property assessments have gone up as high as 150%, leaving people on fixed incomes, particularly seniors, struggling to face this challenge and often deciding to sell the home they’ve lived in for years. John Tory doesn’t feel this is fair or necessary, and that’s why we are introducing a 5% cap on rising assessments per year, so people can budget for marginal increases instead of a massive hike out of nowhere. And of course, we will get rid of Dalton McGuinty’s #1 broken promise, the regressive health tax, beginning immediately in our first year by taking it completely away from those that it hits hardest --- people earning less than $30,000 per year.

Health Care. Nowhere has Dalton’s broken promises affected peoples’ lives more than in health care. Saying the ‘health tax’ was going to health care was his first irresponsible doing, as that money just went to a general tax revenue stream. Then he spent $2-million more on an advertisement to say that wait times were decreasing…only to have the Auditor General and the Ad Standards Council of Canada tell him to take the advertisement off the air because it was false and misleading advertising. He said he’s hire 8,000 nurses, and then barely reached half of that…but still spun the numbers to mislead the public some more. This is unacceptable. We will put $8.5-billion more into health care, hiring nurses and operating 7 nurse-led clinics in the province. We will implement a comprehensive doctor recruitment strategy to ensure that more Ontarians have access to a family physician (the number of physicians accepting new patients has dropped 50% since the Liberals took office). We will invest $100-million into both Long-Term Care and Home Care so that people have the dignity to live their lives in comfort, so they can get the urgent care they need, and so that their families are at peace knowing their loved ones are looked after. Leadership matters in this province, and nowhere is it more evident that we have been lacking it than in the vital area of health care.

What should be the first order of business in the 39th Legislative Assembly?

To begin the removal of Dalton McGuinty’s regressive, punitive health tax.

Are the property taxes in your riding at a fair level for the amount of services received in the municipality?

Absolutely not. There are two issues here. One is that property assessments are rising at an absurd level, which is why we propose to cap them at 5%. Secondly, Toronto is using this property tax revenue to pay for services that go above and beyond what a municipality should be in charge of. We look forward to the provincial-municipal review to be presented in December so that a John Tory government can upload services off of the municipalities so that these property tax dollars aren’t spread so thin.

How can the province lead the way in stimulating job creation?

We need to make this province attractive to invest in once again. Manufacturers struggle under escalating energy costs. 140,000 well-paying manufacturing jobs have been lost. The CD Howe Institute cites Ontario’s tax system as the worst in the country in terms of stimulating an economy. We will remove Dalton’s Capital Tax that stifles job and business growth. We will provide incentives for business to invest in our province, as opposed to the Liberal strategy which includes tripling taxes for a diamond mine that described the action as being something they’d see in a third world country. There are many reasons why we are dead last in the country in economic growth, and all of them are tied directly to the mismanagement of the Dalton McGuinty government. Fair taxing, reliable energy, and real economic leadership is required in Ontario, and John Tory, a man who has experience as the head of a multi-billion dollar company, is the one to provide just that.

What are your views on the mixed member proportional representation (MMP) referendum?

Personally, I will be voting ‘no’ in this referendum. This is not a statement that says I am pleased with the current FPTP system, nor is it my opinion that FPTP is without its inequities. I will certainly respect whatever decision the public makes on this referendum question, and I do feel that the posed question was constructed in a democratically fair process. My issue is that we’d be eliminating one problem, but ushering in a whole new set of problems to replace it. The new system would bring in 39 ADDITIONAL politicians --- more politicians is never a good idea! Similarly, the additional representatives will not be accountable. They will not answer to a local riding. They will not be selected by the public, but rather by a Party’s bureaucracy. And I am concerned that a situation may exist where multiple members could be from a given geographical region, allowing them to use their collective influence to get more infrastructure, investment, and problem-solving solutions to the regions from which they hail, at the expense of the areas that are represented by a sole representative. In summary, I’m not aware of any electoral system in the entire world that is ‘perfect’, and granted that there are imperfections in our current system, it does not warrant bringing in a system that has as many (if not more) flaws. I am more in favour of pursuing internal reform, increasing accountability of local representatives, ensuring more ‘free votes’ in the legislature, and finding ways for the governing and opposition parties to govern this province more efficiently and respectfully.

What role, if any, does "new media" play in your campaign, and the campaign of your party? (websites, blogs, Facebook, YouTube videos, etc) Do you view it as beneficial, or a challenge?

In a riding as young, creative and tech-savvy as Trinity-Spadina, we certainly see the new media as an opportunity to reach our constituents and also help our goal to get more youth interested in the political process. Much of our campaign material has a ‘call to action’ to our website, preserving trees with a one-sheet flyer that asks recipients to look for further information on tylercurrie.com. Similarly, on this website I have my own blog that I update regularly, a link to my Facebook profile and Campaign Group, a link to our MySpace page, a link to our Flickr album, and most importantly, a series of short YouTube videos where I speak to the issues that are important to our community. The new media is a great opportunity to expand our political process and I think it is imperative that more candidates and parties take advantage of this in the immediate years to come.

Of the decisions made by Ontario's 38th Legislative Assembly, which was the most beneficial to your this electoral district? To the province as a whole? Which was least beneficial, or even harmful, to your this riding? To the province as a whole?

Oddly enough, I will choose a negative decision that will have a net-positive effect. The City of Toronto Act gave Toronto taxation powers, but the bill did not include the vital suggested amendments recommended by PC caucus members, and John Tory voted against it because of that. The uproar of Toronto citizens after facing additional taxes, and then the brief shutdown of community centres, highlighted the need to re-visit the provincial-municipal responsibilities breakdown. Our campaign has provided the answer for Toronto’s struggling fiscal situation, and the city and its residents will be better off in the next four years because both the city and province will be run more effectively and more efficient as a result.

The most harmful thing is McGuinty’s health tax. $9.3-billion worth of broken promises are wrapped up in that health tax, and the cynicism that I have met at every door in our riding is directly inflated by the shameless, reckless, and irresponsible decision.

This electronic transmission and any attached files are intended solely for the person or entity to which they are addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use, including taking any action concerning this information by anyone other than the named recipient, is strictly prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient or have received this communication in error, please immediately notify the sender and destroy this communication.

Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with independent candidate Charles de Kerckhove, St. Paul's
Charles de Kerckhove is running as an independent in the Ontario provincial election, in the riding of St. Paul's. Wikinews' Nick Moreau interviewed him regarding his values, his experience, and his campaign.

Stay tuned for further interviews; every candidate from every party is eligible, and will be contacted. Expect interviews from Liberals, Progressive Conservatives, New Democratic Party members, Ontario Greens, as well as members from the Family Coalition, Freedom, Communist, Libertarian, and Confederation of Regions parties, as well as independents.

Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? Why did you choose to run in this constituency?

The purpose of this campaign is to address child sexual abuse, an issue affecting at least 1 out of every 10 Canadians (Health Canada), through the promotion of policies advocated by website www.protect-kids.org.

Every child in Ontario needs to benefit from primary prevention programs addressing all potential sexual offences, accounting for potential offenders either unknown or well-known to a child. While progress has been introduced within our legal system and within our counselling resources to better accommodate child needs, current standards of prevention, support and accountability remain inadequate.

While this campaign is pleased to offer opinions about other issues only as requested, its mandate is limited to public consideration of www.protect-kids.org, with the hopes that mainstream parties will adopt some or all of the proposals.

What prior political experience do you have? What skills and insight can you bring to office, from other non-political positions you may have held?

My political experience includes participation in a number of campaigns within mainstream parties. Six years of experience within Ontarian industry as an engineer, a manager and as a marketing representative have provided insights with respect to economic development and environmental restoration. With respect to the issues of this campaign however, my insights derive from research within the current status and implementation of child-specific case law, civil litigation in sexual abuse, interviews of organisations working in prevention initiatives, and visits of provincial victim witness programs and of sexual assault support centres.

Which of your competitors do you expect to pose the biggest challenge to your candidacy? Why? What makes you the most desirable of all candidates running in the riding?

There is no competitor to my candidacy per se, as the purpose of this campaign is to persuade St. Paul’s voters to consider “donating their vote”. While the biggest challenge naturally is outreach towards every potential voter within the riding, our team is encouraged by the many friendly receptions going door to door, as well as the general agreement towards better protecting the dignity and safety of every Ontarian child.

What do you feel are the three most important issues to voters in your riding? Are these the same top three issues that are most important to you? What would you do to address these issues?

Issues of highest importance naturally differ from one voter to another, and all heard to date have been deserving of consideration and corrective action. Voter concerns have included the need for Toronto’s city revenues to better reflect current provincial and federal taxation levels, specifically an end to the financing of provincially mandated programs through municipal property taxes, also unacceptable accessibility to GPs and to certain medical procedures, questionable standards of leadership in the environment as compared to international initiatives, inadequate community representation within the police force in areas concerned about gun violence, and also basic trust in the accountability of government programs. Voters of all ages have been responsive to this campaign’s proposals to better support and protect children from abuse, I am proud to be advocating positive change on this issue.

What should be the first order of business in the 39th Legislative Assembly?

All Members of Provincial Parliament should support a bill mandating a comprehensive in-school prevention program to be accessed by every child in Ontario, bar none. It would combine the best available age-specific research addressing all potential sexual offences, from offenders unknown or well-known to a child (whether acquaintance, relative, peer, stranger, internet predator, etc.). Organisations with excellent preventive initiatives are currently not receiving any public funding, detracting not only from this outreach but from other programs as well (support of troubled children, teen runaway prevention, community responses to child abuse and family violence, relationship skills for teenage females at risk of violence, etc.). As such an initiative would be promoting children’s well-being, it could be named “Remembering Holly” so as to honour the memory of the much-missed Holly Jones. With the help of the organisations above, social workers, and educational assistants, it could be integrated into current in-school programs such as the Safe Schools Action Team.

Are the property taxes in your riding at a fair level for the amount of services received in the municipality?

No. The city of Toronto claims that 32% of its budget is absorbed by provincially mandated / cost shared programs.

How can the province lead the way in stimulating job creation?

By investing in the health and well-being of every Ontarian child. The Government of Canada supports a study accounting for the national costs of child physical and sexual abuse as $ 15.5 billion dollars a year, much of which is traced to lost earnings potential comparing formerly abused children to formerly non-abused children from the same socio-economic backgrounds.

Job creation in the more short-term could be stimulated by supporting the more promising new service industries. Manufacturing companies could be evaluated for support based on due diligence towards the Occupational Health and Safety Act, due diligence towards environmental protections and cogeneration initiatives, viability of the long-term business plans, and re-usability of input materials.

What are your views on the mixed member proportional representation (MMP) referendum?

Against. The MMP proposes adding new members to the legislature from lists compiled by the main political parties. This rewards the “party hack” sort of individual, and further detracts from personal accountability at voter doorsteps.

The existing parties have enough control of the process as it is. It’s been said of this campaign: “Charles de Kerckhove has a PLAN that challenges flaws in our social and political systems that will definitely bring attention and positive change towards a safer world for all kids. No child deserves to be hurt, ever”. Along with whatever the candidates from the smaller parties had to say, this PLAN has been shut out of three out of three so-called All-Candidates debates. It’s difficult when one of the hosting organisations that shut out all of the smaller campaigns also actively endorses one of the main three candidates.

A concerned citizen should have the right to run on an issue of conviction, with at least some token inclusion into the process. Additionally considering the larger ridings under the proposed plan, the option of an independent political campaign could become effectively unavailable.

What role, if any, does “new media” play in your campaign, and the campaign of your party? (websites, blogs, Facebook, YouTube videos, etc) Do you view it as beneficial, or a challenge?

New media is the best thing an independent campaign has got! It levels the playing field that much more, and provides voice to people outside the main party lines – new media is keeping the democratic spirit alive more than anything else.

Of the decisions made by Ontario's 38th Legislative Assembly, which was the most beneficial to your this electoral district? To the province as a whole? Which was least beneficial, or even harmful, to your this riding? To the province as a whole?

For the most beneficial decision, that would be a tough choice between the $ 5 million strategy to better support police agencies against child pornography, the creation of the CYBERCOPS program for helping kids against internet offences, and the end of the statute of limitations for fiduciary relationships in civil litigation. That last one is significant, because it means that once a former sexual abuse victim becomes conscious of the effects of the abuse on personal development, he or she no longer is limited to two years for the option of seeking damages. As there is a lot that a defendant can do to discredit and further humiliate a plaintiff – especially if the defendant happens to be something like a powerful religious organisation – the end to the statute of limitations makes the imbalance of power that much less unacceptable.

As for the least beneficial or even harmful measures, they would be more along the lines of what has not yet been done. For this I would refer to the current government report card, which is posted along with the current government’s response on www.charles-d.com. For all those who share concerns about the shortcomings identified, ask your candidates about www.protect-kids.org!

2007/08 UEFA Cup: Kahn, Klose out; Podolski in
Bayern Munich's #1 goalkeeper Oliver Kahn striker Miroslav Klose have been ruled out of Thursday's UEFA Cup 1st Round 2nd Leg match against Portugal's Belenenses. Lukas Podolski has been ruled available after an injury scare. Kahn and Klose joins Philipp Lahm, Willy Sagnol, José Ernesto Sosa and Valérien Ismael.

Oliver Kahn will require elbow surgery and will be out for 5 weeks.

Bastian Schweinsteiger, Marcell Jansen and Luca Toni didn't practice today for precautionary reasons.

Michael Rensing will replace Oliver Kahn in net while it's not known what formation Ottmar Hitzfeld will use on Thursday.

Finnish department store Stockmann bids for fashion chain Lindex
Sweden-based Nordic fashion chain Lindex AB has been offered 7.9 billion kronor (€861 million; US$1.2 billion) in a takeover bid by Stockmann Oyj Abp, a Finnish department store chain based in Helsinki.

The board of Lindex is said to have recommended acceptance of the deal, which significantly outdid a 7 billion kronor (€763 million; US$1.08 billion) offer by rival KappAhl Holding AB, another clothing vendor, in August. The board had recommended shareholders reject that offer as too low.

Stockmann's increase to 116 Kroner from KappAhl's 102 Kroner per share was said by Lindex to be a reasonable price. KappAhl have withdrawn their offer as a result.

Lindex Chairman Conny Karlsson said "We believe that Stockmann actively can contribute with their experience and know-how in order to accelerate our expansion in Eastern and Central Europe.," The chain is one of Europe's biggest fashion chains, operating 350 stores in Sweden, Norway, Finland, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia.

In other Finnish business news, mobile phone manufacturer Nokia acquired Navteq, a US Geographic Information Systems software development company.

Nokia acquires Navteq
Nokia, the mobile phone manufacturer based in Nokia, Finland, has negotiated the takeover of Chicago, United States Geographic Information Systems software development company Navteq for US$8.1 billion.

Nokia are paying $78 per share in Navteq, who employs 3,000 people and operates 168 offices spread across 20 countries. Nokia, meanwhile, is the world's largest mobile phone manufacturer.

The price comes in at only three cents a share more than current stock market prices, but these prices have recently risen steeply after rumours surfaced that the company may be subject to a takeover deal. However, share prices fell 1.7% after the deal was confirmed as fact.

“Location based services are one of the cornerstones of Nokia's Internet services strategy. By joining forces with Navteq, we will be able to bring context and geographical information to a number of our Internet services with accelerated time to market,” said a statement by Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo, Nokia's chief executive. Meanwhile, MarketWatch had a slightly different take on events, using the headline “Nokia bets men will spend anything to avoid asking directions.”

Also today, Finnish department store Stockmann placed a bid for fashion chain Lindex.

Senegal threatens withdrawal of troops from Darfur
Senegalese President Abdoulaye Wade pushed for an immediate investigation into the deaths of 12 African Union(AU) troops who were killed in a raid on a peacekeeping base in the Darfur region of Sudan. He stated that he would remove Senegalese troops from the AU force if the investigation found the pacificators were unequipped to defend themselves.

In what was called "...the heaviest loss of life and biggest attack on the African Mission," by AU spokesperson Noureddine Mezni, 30 vehicles and a force of 1,000 armed rebels raided the AU base in the town of Haskanita just after sunset on Saturday. The base was completely destroyed. One of the soldiers killed in the attack was Senegalese, while the majority were Nigerian. One Malian soldier, and one soldier from Botswana were also killed in the raid, according to AU spokesman Assane Ba.

"If they died because they didn't have the arms to defend themselves, I will withdraw all the Senegalese ... I am not going to send people to be slaughtered," said President Wade. This would strike a heavy blow to the AU mission in Darfur, as Senegalese troops make up one of the largest sections of the peacekeeping force.

The United Nations also spoke out vehemently against the attack on Monday. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon condemned the rebels in the "...strongest possible terms,", while simultaneously urging a renewed commitment to peace in preparation for the scheduled October peace talks in Libya.

The AU has been bemoaning their lack of sufficient funds in Darfur for years, citing a lack of miltary helicopters, rapid response vehicles, and an inadequate number of troops which hinder the force in their mission to improve the stability of the region.

"People did deployment on the premise that there was an (peace) agreement and they were coming to inspect and act as observers -- there was no planning for people to be able to defend themselves," AU force commander Martin Agwai said. In addition, he said that while the AU was in the process of creating new emergency security plans, not much more could be done without an increase to the funds and troop levels of the bases in Darfur. This will hopefully come with the deployment of the hybrid United Nations African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) force by the end of the year, which will raise the troop levels from 7,000 to 26,000 soldiers.

As for the interim time period, AU official Martin Luther Agwai said that, "We peacekeepers are determined to continue,".

Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with Green candidate Jim Reeves, York-Simcoe
Jim Reeves is running for the Green Party of Ontario in the Ontario provincial election, in the York-Simcoe riding. Wikinews' Nick Moreau interviewed him regarding his values, his experience, and his campaign.

Stay tuned for further interviews; every candidate from every party is eligible, and will be contacted. Expect interviews from Liberals, Progressive Conservatives, New Democratic Party members, Ontario Greens, as well as members from the Family Coalition, Freedom, Communist, Libertarian, and Confederation of Regions parties, as well as independents.

Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? Why did you choose to run in this constituency?

I have been active for many years in business and environmental organization in York Region and am increasingly concerned about the indiscriminate development, and the lack of effective steps by the major parties to protect the Lake Simcoe watershed. I see in the Green Party policy many ideas which if implemented could greatly improve not only environmental health, but the practical aspects of education, social welfare and health care delivery in our province.

I have lived in Georgina since 1978 and would be proud to represent my home constituency.

What prior political experience do you have? What skills and insights can you bring to office, from other non-political positions you may have held?

While I have no specific political experience, I have served on many boards. Business related: Canadian Retail Hardware Association, as director on the committee for legislative affairs. Canadian Tire Dealers Association, at different times, committees on marketing, logistics, and warehousing. Provincial: Workplace Health and Safety, and Social: Association for Community Living, York Environmental Stewardship. As an engineer and having my MBA I have a very practical approach to problems and I believe that I can bring a creative and practical point of view, incorporating new technologies.

Which of you competitors do you expect to pose the biggest challenge to your candidacy? Why? What makes you the most desirable candidate running in the riding?

As a Green Party candidate I recognize that all the major parties pose a big challenge. They all have established riding constituencies and financial support far beyond anything we can realistically expect in this election. However the Green Party represents the grass roots and will be better able to put forward the issues of growth in harmony with the environment, and protection of the Lake Simcoe watershed. They are both issues very important to the riding.

What do you feel are the three most important issues to voters in your riding? Are these the same top three issues most important to you? What would you do to address these issues?

Bad development: The extensive building of single family dwellings, with no centre of shopping, amenities,

No job growth in the developments or nearby. People have to commute, causing more smog, congestion and air pollution.

Degradation of the Lake Simcoe watershed. This degradation is taking place as a result of poor water management, smelter byproducts, dumps and the paving over of large areas of the Oak Ridge’s Moraine.

These are also issues about which I have great concern. We must stop all development on the Lake Simcoe watershed until a comprehensive study can be completed to identify where development can take place with minimal impact on the watershed. This will have to be done through legislation like the proposed Lake Simcoe Act.

“Smart” planning techniques should be adopted, where the developments are along existing corridors of infrastructure. They should include mixed density housing, affordable housing, seniors housing, shopping and cafes. Facilities for doctors, lawyers, dentists etc all with walking or biking distances. This type of planning promotes a community spirit. People meet and talk and know each other. There tends to be less crime. This approach to planning is in use all over the world.

Developers should also be required to build facilities to encourage business to locate nearby. People can travel short distances to work.

What should be the first order of business for the 39th legislative Assembly?

Climate change is a fact and we see it in many of the everyday events. Eg. this summer we have had the same amount of rainfall as usual but it fell in several very heavy showers as opposed to the longer more ground penetrating kind we usually have. Considering this I think the first order of business should be to look at the many small changes that can considerably reduce our carbon footprint. The technology is available; other countries and cities are using it; Lets. Act now and get that leadership from the government of Ontario.

Are property taxes in your riding at a fair level for the amount of services received in the municipality?

The whole issue of property tax needs to be revisited. The Green Party proposes to place a moratorium on any increases in the assess market value of all residential properties and to establish a Royal Commission to study alternatives such as a location value tax system. Also consider a system which does not penalize property owners for making improvements.

How can the province lead the way in stimulating job creation?

We need to become the leader in “green” jobs in sustainable industries. Recent trends show that the public is willing to pay more for “greener” products. Small business and co-ops are important engines of a vibrant green economy and should be encouraged, and money should be diverted to the form of loans to help them get started

What are your views on the mixed member proportional representation (MMP) referendum?

I am in support of changing the electoral system to MMP. It will give the people of the province a greater influence on the legislature. Each person can now vote for the candidate whom they feel best represents their riding, irrespective of party and then party of their choice. Many people have commented on the extra number of seats, however looking at the mathematics this was the smallest number that could be used to allow a seat for a party that gets over 3% of the vote. Also people now will have two representatives to advocate for them in the legislature.

What role, if any, does "new media" play in your campaign, and the campaign of your party?

Both the Green Party and I are making a lot of use of computer technology and the internet. The GPO web site is extensive and kept well up to date and my own site www.vote reeves.ca also has a lot of information, links and the opportunity to donate on line to my campaign. Emailing and electronic storage of information greatly reduces the amount of paper being used and enables us to communicate efficiently with many people across our very large riding.

Of the decisions made by Ontario’s 38th Legislative Assembly, which was the most beneficial to your electoral district? To the province as a whole? Which was least beneficial, or even harmful, to your riding? To the Province as a whole?

Most beneficial to our riding were the establishment of the Oak Ridge’s Moraine protection and the announcement of the Green belt. However the bad decision was removing the teeth from the protections and allowing the continued building on the Lake Simcoe watershed. Also excluding the west half of the riding between Bradford and Barrie from the green belt. Again this will lead to further degradation of the watershed. The decision to raise the MPP salaries was a bad decision for the province as a whole, especially in view of the lack of action on many social issues.

Singer Britney Spears loses custody battle
Pop singer Britney Spears will have to give up custody of her children following a court's ruling today.

Spears' ex-husband, Kevin Federline, is to have custody of their children by noon Wednesday.

According to Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Scott M. Gordon's ruling, Federline will retain custody of the children "until further order of the court."

The ruling came in part by the testimony of Spears' former body guard, Tony Barretto, who said that Spears had a substance abuse problem.

Barretto recalled this memory hours before a concert, "She appeared to be under the influence, she was kind of incoherent, she was looking for her cell phone ... she was biting her nails, her pupils were dilated, didn't conversate well, sweating, acting nervously."

Barretto said he knew Spears did drugs at least two times in Hollywood nightclubs.

25-year-old Spears and 29-year-old Federline were married in October of 2004 and have two children: Sean Preston, 2 and Jayden James, 1.

Starting September 18, 2007, Spears was ordered to submit random drug tests following her engagement in what the court called "habitual, frequent, and continuous use of controlled substances and alcohol."

Spears has also been ordered to spend eight hours a week working with a parenting counselor.

Also, this ruling came 10 days after Spears was charged in a hit and run and for driving without a license.

Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with Liberal candidate Brian Jackson, Oxford
Brian Jackson is running for the Ontario Liberal Party in the Ontario provincial election, in the Oxford riding. Wikinews' Nick Moreau interviewed him regarding his values, his experience, and his campaign.

Stay tuned for further interviews; every candidate from every party is eligible, and will be contacted. Expect interviews from Liberals, Progressive Conservatives, New Democratic Party members, Ontario Greens, as well as members from the Family Coalition, Freedom, Communist, Libertarian, and Confederation of Regions parties, as well as independents.

Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? Why did you choose to run in this constituency?

I have always been involved in the community and various causes. I used to talk about how to make things better, so when I was approaching retirement from teaching, my friends said “get off your butt and do it.” So, the day after I retired, I won the Oxford Liberal nomination.

What prior political experience do you have? What skills and insight can you bring to office, from other non-political positions you may have held?

I have had a number positions in my church, in the community and in fundraising associations. While I have never held, or run for political office, I believe my educational background can bring much experience to ensure the area is addressing the needs the students and the employers of Oxford.

Which of your competitors do you expect to pose the biggest challenge to your candidacy? Why? What makes you the most desirable of all candidates running in the riding?

Obviously, the incumbent is the one to beat. He has been the sitting member for twelve years. I hear at the doors that it is time for a change in Oxford, and I believe that I bring a fresh voice to the riding.

What do you feel are the three most important issues to voters in your riding? Are these the same top three issues that are most important to you? What would you do to address these issues?

Education, health care, and jobs are the three most important things I hear from the people I talk to. I want to address education and jobs by expanding the trade school opportunities in the riding, to train the skilled trades people that we will require right here.

Long-term care is important in the riding, and I will work to expand and improve the facilities in the riding.

What should be the first order of business in the 39th Legislative Assembly?

We need to continue the work done by the ministry of Economic Development to attract investment and the next generation of industrial technologies.

Are the property taxes in your riding at a fair level for the amount of services received in the municipality?

That is a question best addressed by the respective municipal councils.

How can the province lead the way in stimulating job creation?

We need to continue attracting the next generation of technologies. Fuel-efficient and alternative fuel vehicles, alternative energy technologies; any of the products that we will need to develop quickly to address the environmental challenges currently being faced.

What are your views on the mixed member proportional representation (MMP) referendum?

I feel that everyone should take the time to educate themselves about all aspects of this important decision and decide for themselves. Regardless of the outcome, the referendum exercise has forced people to learn and think about our system of democracy.

Because of this, it is already a success.

What role, if any, does "new media" play in your campaign, and the campaign of your party? (websites, blogs, Facebook, YouTube videos, etc) Do you view it as beneficial, or a challenge?

I have done a weekly live webcast for people to log onto and talk to me, I write a blog, and we have posted a video on YouTube. I feel that they are beneficial in trying to attract younger voters, but we have not seen a big take-up on our efforts. Then again, how can I compete with the Crazy Bride video?

Of the decisions made by Ontario's 38th Legislative Assembly, which was the most beneficial to your this electoral district? To the province as a whole? Which was least beneficial, or even harmful, to your this riding? To the province as a whole?

By far, our riding has benefitted from the Liberal Government’s investment in the Auto Fund which, among other things, attracted the new Toyota plant to the riding of Oxford.

Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with Liberal candidate Kate Holloway, Trinity-Spadina
Kate Holloway is running for the Ontario Liberal Party in the Ontario provincial election, in the Trinity-Spadina riding. Wikinews' Nick Moreau interviewed her regarding her values, her experience, and her campaign.

Stay tuned for further interviews; every candidate from every party is eligible, and will be contacted. Expect interviews from Liberals, Progressive Conservatives, New Democratic Party members, Ontario Greens, as well as members from the Family Coalition, Freedom, Communist, Libertarian, and Confederation of Regions parties, as well as independents.

Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? Why did you choose to run in this constituency?

Many of the issues I care about are under the jurisdiction of the provincial government. In Ontario, we're luck to have a young and progressive cabinet. They've done a lot of great things already, and I want to help them do more.

I chose to run in Trinity-Spadina because this is where I've spent most of the last 20 years of my life. It's where I've raised my son and where I feel at home.

What prior political experience do you have? What skills and insight can you bring to office, from other non-political positions you may have held?

I was an organizer for the Green Party of Canada during the 2004 federal election and served on the Federal Council of the Green Party. I bring a wide range of experience from my non-political life, from holding senior executive positions in high-tech and advertising to serving on the Steering Committee of Green Enterprise Toronto to being a founding member of the Women's Environmental Alliance.

Which of your competitors do you expect to pose the biggest challenge to your candidacy? Why?

There's a great field of candidates from other parties as well as a number of independents. Only the voters know who they'll pick on October 10.

What makes you the most desirable of all candidates running in the riding?

Trinity-Spadina needs an MPP working with and inside the government, fighting for our interests. As a financial professional and renewable energy developer, I have the skills to ensure fiscal health, urban sustainability and appropriate development.

What do you feel are the three most important issues to voters in your riding? Are these the same top three issues that are most important to you? What would you do to address these issues?

Many citizens are concerned about our environment in general and climate change in particular. Ontario Liberals have acted decisively by bringing in legislation such as the Clean Water Act and preserving the principle of extended producer responsibility. Liberals protected 1.8 Million acres of arable land from development and urban sprawl through the Greenbelt Plan and also introduced Ontario's new Standard Offer Program for small renewable energy projects. We plan to keep fighting climate change and investing in green technologies.

Another deep concern is ensuring Ontario's publicly funded education system is the best in the world. After years of Conservative cuts and chaos, we're turning things around and we can't afford to go backwards.

Also, healthcare is an issue all over the riding. We are now spending $9 billion per year more on healthcare than the previous government, including investing millions into community-based mental health services. Ontario Liberals will continue to fight for a strong, publicly funded health care system for all Ontarians.

What should be the first order of business in the 39th Legislative Assembly?

Implementing the Ontario Liberal Party 2007 Platform. http://www.ontarioliberal.ca/en/Platformhtml.aspx?id=2

Are the property taxes in your riding at a fair level for the amount of services received in the municipality?

High property taxes are a big concern for Trinity-Spadina homeowners, especially seniors. The Liberal platform commits to uploading the full cost of both the Ontario Disability Support Program and the Ontario Drug Benefit over 4 years, relieving over $900 million per year in pressure from local property taxpayers. We will also implement a new homeowners' grant for seniors who have trouble paying their property taxes.

How can the province lead the way in stimulating job creation?

We need to train the best workforce in the world. We need the best educated, most highly skilled workers in order to secure the most investment and the best jobs.

What are your views on the mixed member proportional representation (MMP) referendum?

I support MMP and serve as a spokesperson for Liberals for MMP.

What role, if any, does "new media" play in your campaign, and the campaign of your party? (websites, blogs, Facebook, YouTube videos, etc) Do you view it as beneficial, or a challenge?

Websites and YouTube are great tools for voters to access information. The internet is also a great equalizer. Anyone can make a video for YouTube such as this one.

Facebook groups are also great for like-minded people to self organize.

Of the decisions made by Ontario's 38th Legislative Assembly, which was the most beneficial to your this electoral district? To the province as a whole? Which was least beneficial, or even harmful, to your this riding? To the province as a whole?

There were many beneficial decisions by the 38th Legislative Assembly. The introduction of a comprehensive, long-term plan to fight child poverty through the Ontario Child Benefit is especially promising. Also, new legislation to strengthen the City of Toronto, giving the city its own Charter, was a huge achievement.

Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with Family Coalition Party candidate Bob Innes, Hamilton East
Bob Innes is running for the Family Coalition Party in the Ontario provincial election, in the Hamilton East riding. Wikinews' Nick Moreau interviewed him regarding his values, his experience, and his campaign.

Stay tuned for further interviews; every candidate from every party is eligible, and will be contacted. Expect interviews from Liberals, Progressive Conservatives, New Democratic Party members, Ontario Greens, as well as members from the Family Coalition, Freedom, Communist, Libertarian, and Confederation of Regions parties, as well as independents.

Why have you chosen to involve yourself in the political process? Why did you choose to run in this constituency?

I have lived in east Hamilton for the past seven years or three floods worth which may explain why I'm running. Since 911, I've been disgusted by 1) political correctness and bias in media and political dialog 2) inability of parties to address fundamental problems 3) political encouragement of a smug and selfish attitudes on the part of Canadians.

What prior political experience do you have? What skills and insight can you bring to office, from other non-political positions you may have held?

My working life was as a Professional Engineer in the field of recycling and waste management where I came to understand how our political system operates in dysfunctional ways, wasting resources AND wasting people because beauraucracies are not co-operating, how the taxpayer is the last person considered. My ability to think laterally enables me to connect dots others do not see or care about. As an engineer, I prefer to solve problems rather than building long term bandaid solutions such as food banks.

Which of your competitors do you expect to pose the biggest challenge to your candidacy? Why?

The FCP is the only social conservative choice Hamilton voters have. All other parties are now on the left of the political spectrum, indisdinguashable, musical chair changers. I have sympathy with the other small (Green) party, having spent a lot of time conserving and developing economical solar heating for my home, however we differ on to two important issues: the cause of global warming which we believe is more likely to be a hotter sun (until proven otherwise) and the use of subsidies to achieve green objectives. We believe that taxes are way too high already and I am incensed to think that my solar savings (from building a cheap collector) would be taxed away so greens can hand out expensive/uneconomic solar collectors to their friends. McGuinty actually did this with air conditioners.

What makes you the most desirable of all candidates running in the riding?

I would not be a back bencher who would have to toe the line. Other than our core beliefs, the FCP is a coalition party, wanting to work with others on specific issues. That is how democracy should really work and it is important for voters to approve the MMP system. As it is now, our democracy is unable to deal with difficult issues until a crisis occurs which can be a very dangerous approach. This is because independent voices are not heard, and not being heard, important long term or minority problems are simply not discussed.

What do you feel are the three most important issues to voters in your riding? Are these the same top three issues that are most important to you? What would you do to address these issues?

I am utterly opposed to poll driven politics (sort of a mob rule) and want to chide voters for thinking politicians are there to do their bidding rather than acting in the interest of both your area and the whole province and nation. I'd guess that Hamilton voters want more doctors, more benefits and to follow the herd on global warming even if it wrecks our economy without solving the problem. I believe its like we are on the Titanic, oblivious to the "icebergs" of demographic change, dangerous (historical) reactions to overtaxation, gathering storm clouds of conflict, ongoing economic dislocation to emerging economies, and deterioration of the pillars of Canadian society. Canada, while seemingly in good shape,has altered a once strong political system so as to follow failed states into the dustbin of history without having contributed anything meaningful.

What should be the first order of business in the 39th Legislative Assembly?

Put the MMP system in place.

Are the property taxes in your riding at a fair level for the amount of services received in the municipality?

No. Hamilton taxes are so high that they have crushed property values, ruined business districts, whipped industry to death and still there is no relief. Do voters know that industrial taxes are about 11% which means that a business must "buy" itself back from the city every 7 years or so? This is nonsense that has insidious repercussions. As noted, having developer based politicians, it is impossible to rebalance tax burdens properly onto the appropriate base. Shopping malls for instance have killed main street businesses but should be paying far higher tax based on the huge parking areas required and roads required as feeders. You won't hear this from your Chamber of Commerce.

It was fun though listening to Toronto's Mayor holding his citizens to ransom to get a tax increase without doing a comparison between taxtakers and taxpayers. Somehow, the media (CBC Radio in this case) cannot seem to ever discover the game in order to let voters in on the secret. They seem to be in cahoots.

How can the province lead the way in stimulating job creation?

Lower taxes and over-regulation. Think Ireland. In Canada, government is 40% of the economy, meaning producers must fork over 2/3 of their sector to "gummerment". In turn, this doubles the price of everything, which explains why the NDP has it backwards and is the cause, not the solution to poverty. They do not realize that a poor person is just as happy with lower costs as with higher wages. But lower costs would follow a reduction of gummerment which by regulation, often stands in the way of the poor trying to get ahead. I watched as a young couple tried to make a go selling hot dogs but were crushed by the onerous burden of meeting all the regulations (cart cost over 10 grand, license fee over $300, nasty inspectors). A friend, driven out of Canada by the magnitude of gummerment hassles and prospered mightily in Costa Rica, priced a certain item at $200 in Canada, $125 in the US and $75 locally. No wonder Canadians are again flocking over the border to shop. This time, its not currency, which is at par. If you want people to work, get gummerment out of the way, out of peoples pockets, and reduce disincentives to work.

What are your views on the mixed member proportional representation (MMP) referendum?

I agree that MMP works to make democracy more sensitive to voters' ideas and would have rectified things like the Residential School debacle much more quickly. Initially, I was concerned that the list could be a source of problems but was convinced that if it did occur, could be corrected later. I myself and many people criticizing the concept on the basis of the Italian experience but then I realized that we should give Italy a bit more credit. For a small country with few resources it seems they are doing quite well thank you. The coalition idea is to create temporary alliances in order to deal with one problem and then if needed shuffle things around to deal with a different problem. At present, we just sweep problems under the carpet and hope they go away.

What role, if any, does "new media" play in your campaign, and the campaign of your party? (websites, blogs, Facebook, YouTube videos, etc) Do you view it as beneficial, or a challenge?

At present, this is almost all we have. Big contributors smell money in power and will never support a small party. Please visit my Facebook page, and the Family Coalition Page is at www.familycoalitionparty.com

Of the decisions made by Ontario's 38th Legislative Assembly, which was the most beneficial to your electoral district? To the province as a whole? Which was least beneficial, or even harmful, to your riding? To the province as a whole?

The province continues to crush Hamilton under the weight of welfare and educational budgets and unfair property assessments, without enabling cities to actually solve the problem. Urban sprawl is the major problem the province has done nothing about and which undermines global ability to survive the decline of oil fields worldwide (never mind global warming.) Cities (offspring of provincial legislation) continue to be run by developers and their money which makes it impossible to deal with inner city problems. Amalgamation didn't help either.

For a small population in a huge country with an inadequate birth rate, high divorce rate and too many untended kids, to undermine the traditional family even more (gay marriage, no income splitting, promoting unhealthy lifestyles in schools) is to contribute to the serious long term consequences we are starting to experience as demographics change and kids shoot each other with impunity and the health system collapses for lack of young workers.

On the bright side, Hamilton got a new Marine Display and a pork barrel handout just before the writ was dropped. Whoop--dee-doo. When will voters learn?

Thousands of Monks in Burma to be imprisoned; Thousands more reported dead
Several reports are coming out of Myanmar today that thousands of monks involved in protests against the Burmese government will "be sent away" to prisons out of the capital city of Rangoon. Other reports are also stating that the number of monks killed by Burmese troops is in the thousands.

According to reports by BBC News, at least 4,000 or more monks have been arrested and questioned by government authorities in their recent crackdown on protests favoring democracy for the nation. It is reported that they are being held at the Government Technological Institute, the Kyaikkasan racing track and in a prison called Insein Prison. From these locations, they will be transported to prisons located in the extreme northern part of Burma. The monks have not been allowed to wear their robes and are in shackles, and some of them have been beaten. Many have also initiated a hunger strike, refusing to eat.

Although the Burmese government reports only 10 monks to have been killed, other reports from activists and media agencies say that the death toll is in the thousands.

Pictures have surfaced claiming that thousands of dead monks have been dumped inside the Burmese jungles. Many of the monks who managed to escape capture from troops have dressed in civilian clothing and have begun to hide inside their temples or have fled Rangoon.

"Many more people have been killed in recent days than you've heard about. The bodies can be counted in several thousand," said a deserter of the Burmese army and a former intelligence officer, Hla Win. He also states that he deserted the army when he was ordered to kill monks in what he called a "massacre of holy men."

"I decided to desert when I was ordered to raid two monasteries and force several hundred monks on to trucks. They were to be killed and their bodies dumped deep inside the jungle. I refused to participate in this," added Win.

An unnamed diplomatic official from Sweden also claims that at least 40 monks were beaten to death, then their bodies were burned.

Meanwhile, Ibrahim Gambari, an envoy for the United Nations is in Burma attempting to resolve the issues there and meet with government officials, but he has been unsuccessful so far in arranging a meeting. New reports say that the government is making Gambari wait another day before there will be the possibility of a meeting.

"He [Gambari] will come back tomorrow and he will meet with the senior general tomorrow in Naypyidaw," said an unnamed U.N. Information Ministry official. Gambari is waiting to meet with Senior General Than Shwe, the head of the junta, to urge a resolution to the violence. This is the second day the meeting has been postponed.

Fred Thompson raises nearly eight million dollars, falls short of expectations
United States Presidential canidate Fred Thompson will report he raised just over $8 million for his 2008 White House bid. However, this falls short of expectations when compared to rival Mitt Romney’s $21.2 million or Rudy Giuliani’s $16.6 million first quarter funds. Second tier candidate, Texas Representative Ron Paul, raised $1 million online in the last week after initially setting a goal of $500,000.

In contrast, Democratic frontrunners Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama's respective campaigns received $53 million and $59 million in the first half of the year. Both canidates are expected to have brought in "at least $17 million each in the third quarter."

Man with grenades arrested outside US embassy in Austria
A man carrying a bag containing in what reports call hand grenades, nails and "Islamic literature" was arrested outside the United States embassy in Vienna, Austria.

The unnamed Bosnian man, who is reported to be 42 years-old, tried to enter the embassy, triggering metal detector alarms. As a result, he placed the bag in front of the embassy and began to run from authorities.

"There were a lot of nails in that bag. Had it exploded, it would have had an enormous shrapnel effect," said a counter terrorism spokeswoman for Austria's government.

Subway trains and buses have been rerouted while officials use bomb-sniffing dogs to search the areas surrounding the embassy.

There are no reports of any injuries and authorities have "secured" the bag.

Hirsi Ali returns to the Netherlands
Former Dutch politician Ayaan Hirsi Ali returned to the Netherlands, from the United States because she cannot longer be protected in that country.

The Dutch government has stopped paying for her protection in the U.S. as of October 1, and the American government is not willing to pay for her security any longer.

Hirsi Ali left for the United States in 2006 in order to work for the American Enterprise Institute in Washington, D.C.. Now she has returned back to the Netherlands and she will continue for the American think tank. The Dutch government has agreed to continue paying for her protection, now that she is back on Dutch soil.

Hirsi Ali has needed protection because she has been uttering critical remarks on Islam for which she received several threats. Ali wrote the script for Submission, a movie about the Muslim culture and its treatment of women in 2004. Shortly after, Theo Van Gogh, the creator of the film was assassinated by Muslim extremists who also threatened to kill Ali.

Champion AFL footballer Chris Mainwaring dies
Former West Coast Eagles champion and television presenter Chris Mainwaring (Mainy) died in the early hours of 1st October aged 41. The cause of death is believed to be a seizure, St John Ambulance was called to Mainwarings home just after midnight and found him unconscious. Mainwaring was pronounced dead shortly after arrival at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital.

Earlier in the evening police had been called to a disturbance at the same address, when they arrived he was calm and refused assistance. He was placed in the care of a neighbour and returned home.

Police are investigating his death and will report their findings to the Coroner, this is standard procedure for unexplained deaths. The street has been closed off and police are interviewing neighbours.

Seven News released a statement just before midday about the tragic loss, managing director Chris Wharton said, "Mainy was part of the heart and soul of Channel Seven Perth, and we will all miss him very, very dearly..."

"Our thoughts must go to Chris' family, especially Rani and the children for their sad loss."

Chris Mainwaring played in East Fremantle's premiership in 1985, and was selected in the first Eagles squad in 1986. He played in the Eagles first Grand final in 1991 as well as in both their 1992 and '94 AFL premierships. Mainwaring was named All-Australian 1991 and '96 , retiring from AFL at the end of 1999 season.

Mainwaring played one more season for East Fremantle before hanging up his boots and becoming a journalist. He worked in sports reporting for local radio stations before becoming a successful sports presenter with Channel Seven Perth.

He is survived by his wife and two children.

2007 Rugby World Cup: Argentina and France qualify for quarter finals
In the 2007 Rugby World Cup, Argentina and France qualified for the knockout stage of the competition from Pool D at the expense of Ireland and Georgia. Elsewhere, South Africa, who have already secured a place in the quarter finals, defeated the United States in Pool A.

France eased to a 64-7 win over Georgia to finish second in Pool D. Clément Poitrenaud, Yannick Nyanga and Lionel Beauxis each scored tries as France led 30-0 at half time. After the interval Sébastien Bruno, Lionel Nallet and Rémy Martin scored tries while Christophe Dominici added two. Zviad Maisuradze scored a try to give Georgia their only points of the match. Julien Bonnaire scored a late try to wrap up the win for France, who face New Zealand in the quarter finals.

Ireland were eliminated from the pool stages for the first time as they fell 15-30 to Argentina. Lucas Borges was the first to score for Argentina before Ronan O'Gara scored a penalty for Ireland. Juan Martín Hernández kicked a drop goal soon afterwards as Argentina led 8-3. Ireland briefly took the lead when Brian O'Driscoll scored, but another drop goal from Hernández and a Horacio Agulla try meant that Argentina went into half time leading 18-10. Geordan Murphy scored a try for Ireland after the interval but Argentina were victorious after Felipe Contepomi kicked three penalties and Hernández scored his third drop goal of the match. Argentina will play Scotland in the quarter finals, while Ireland have automatically qualified for the 2011 World Cup by finishing third in Pool D.

Pool A winners South Africa comfortably defeated the United States 64-15. South Africa scored nine tries, with Bryan Habana and Jaque Fourie each scoring two. Takudzwa Ngwenya and Chris Wyles both added tries for the Americans. South Africa face Fiji in the quarter finals, while Australia and England complete the quarter finals lineup.

Athabasca University recieves 30 million dollars
On Sept 28, the Government of Alberta announced that the province's Athabasca University will get $30 million towards the creation of an Academic and Research Centre that will increase the University's campus by 50%. The announcement was made by Doug Horner, the Minister of Advanced Education & Technology at a Press Conference at the University.

"It's all about more choices and accessibility to education," the Minister said.

The grant is being called by some as the University's second-biggest milestone after the move to the Town of Athabasca, and will allow for an additional 1,500 full time students per year. All of the University's courses are delivered by distance education.

"It allows us to serve our mission" said Joy Romero, the Chair of the Athabasca University Governing Council.

German man arrested for selling screws worth $155,000
An assembly man in Berlin, Germany stole one million screws from his co-workers and auctioned them over the internet. He was arrested at his apartment on Wednesday.

For two years, the 33-year-old stole up to 7,000 screws per day and hid them in a hiding place. Today he has 1.1 million screws that are valued at 110,000 euros USD$155,000.

"In the end, it became obvious that screws were being sold for much less than they usually cost," said police spokesperson for the Würzburg police.

The man's name has not been released and he is in custody awaiting charges.

National Football League: Quarterback Brett Favre breaks record for touchdowns
Quarterback Brett Favre of the Green Bay Packers broke Dan Marino's record for career touchdown passes on Sunday, throwing number 421 to receiver Greg Jennings with 4:56 left in the first quarter. The recordbreaking pass was a 16-yard slant route, and Favre had to throw a bullet to complete it. Though the game was being played at the Metrodome, even the Minnesota Vikings fans stood and applauded as Favre celebrated with his teammates.

After the announcement of the record was made, a taped message from Marino played on the Jumbotron.

"Hey Brett, it's Dan Marino. I'd like to take a minute to congratulate you on breaking one of the great records in sports. I loved holding the touchdown record for the past 13 years, but if someone was going to break it, I'm glad it was someone like you, who has always competed at the highest level and always played only to win," said Marino. "Over the past 17 years, you've been a credit to the Packers, and to the National Football League and to the sport that we all love so much. Brett, congratulations on touchdown 421!"

This historic event came just two weeks after Favre broke John Elway's record for career wins by a quarterback, defeating the New York Giants for win number 149. The Green Bay icon also holds the records for career completions and consecutive games started by a quarterback, which continued on Sunday at 241. Later in the second quarter of today's game, Favre threw the 8,359th pass of his career, eclipsing another of Marino's records.

When asked about the record after the game, a subdued Favre said,"It's just a number. Am I proud? Absolutely. I'm more proud of the fact that we won this game...I'm pleased it's over, and I'm honored. To play this long, I think, is a special thing and to achieve this is, uh, very special,". He added that, in his mind, Dan Marino is still the best quarterback of all time.

Quotes from Around the NFL

Commissioner Roger Goodell "Brett Favre is one of the greatest players in NFL history. He's so much fun to watch not only because of his talent but also because of his competitive spirit. He is the only player to win three MVP awards and his consecutive games streak at quarterback is a tribute to his toughness and passion for the game. Brett has been a leader on the field and in the community and his long list of accomplishments is truly remarkable. We have been fortunate to be able to watch him play this long and we all look forward to seeing him set many more records."

Bart Starr "It's a remarkable accomplishment and richly deserved. Brett is a fabulous competitor and personifies leadership by example. I've never seen a more enthusiastic player and leader."

Mike Holmgren "As proud and amazed as I am of what Brett is and has accomplished on the playing field, the thing that impresses me the most is what kind of a man and leader he has become off the field. I have taken great joy in watching him develop as a person and father over his career."

Joe Montana "I honestly thought Danny's records might never be broken. What Brett has done is a tremendous accomplishment. Congratulations you old fart!!!"

Terry Bradshaw "Brett Favre is the best I have ever seen. And I've never said that about anybody. He's simply the best. He's got the strongest arm, athleticism, field presence, leadership, poise and tenaciousness. He plays hurt, he's fun, he's infectious. He has everything I want to see, including the game-time decisions, the strengths, and all the intangibles."

Steve Young "If you haven't played quarterback in the NFL you truly don't understand just how difficult it is, let alone to be great at it. Throwing one touchdown is hard but to do what Brett has done, come on. You can't give that record enough respect. Couple that with the consecutive games streak and what he has accomplished is beyond imagination. To have one of those records is astronomical and he's got them all. It was an honor to compete against him and an honor to be his friend."

Today in History
1535 – French explorer Jacques Cartier sailed along the St. Lawrence River and reached an Iroquois fort on the island now known as Montreal.

1835 – Mexican dragoons dispatched to disarm settlers at Gonzales, Texas encountered stiff resistance from a Texian militia in the Battle of Gonzales, the first armed engagement of the Texas Revolution.

1928 – Saint Josemaría Escrivá founded Opus Dei, a worldwide organization of lay members of the Roman Catholic Church.

1941 – World War II: Nazi German forces began Operation Typhoon, an all-out offensive against Moscow, starting the three-month long Battle of Moscow.

1992 – In response to a prison riot, military police stormed the Carandiru Penitentiary in São Paulo, Brazil, killing at least 100 prisoners.

October 02 is Independence Day in Guinea (1958), Gandhi Jayanti in India.

Quote of the Day

Creators, makers of the new, can never become obsolete, for in the arts there is no correct answer. The story of discoverers could be told in simple chronological order, since the latest science replaces what went before. But the arts are another story — a story of infinite addition. We must find order in the random flexings of the imagination. ~ Daniel J. Boorstin

Word of the Day

frolic; v

To romp; to behave playfully and uninhibitedly.

About Wikinews
We are a group of volunteer journalists whose mission is to create a diverse community where citizens from around the globe (including you) can collaborate to report the news on a wide variety of current events. By making our content perpetually available for free redistribution and use, we hope to contribute to a global digital commons. Got news and no computer? Call the Wikinews Hotline +1-866-653-4265 (toll-free in the U.S.) +1-202-742-5918 (outside the U.S.) +44-871-218-6397 (U.K. / Europe)
License
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution License. Articles published in this Print edition were created by Wikinewsies. Other content released under the GNU Free Documentation License. To view a copy of the CC-BY license, visit: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.5/ or send a letter to Creative Commons 543 Howard Street, 5th Floor San Francisco, California, 94105, USA To view a copy of the GFDL, visit: http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html Wikipedia Current Events http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Current_events Today in History http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page Quote of the Day http://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Main_Page Word of the Day http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Main_Page
About Wikinews Print Edition
For more information about Wikinews Print Edition visit: http://en.wikinews.org/wiki/Wikinews:Print

Tuesday, October 2, 2007	Wikinews	Page 17

If you would like to write, publish or edit articles, visit www.wikinews.org

October 2, 2007	The free-content news source that you can write!	Page 17

If you would like to write, publish or edit articles, visit en.wikinews.org

Wikinews Back Page

2007-10-01T20:14:13