I must admit, I find the ongoing debate about knives in the UK somewhat perplexing. The leader of the Conservative Party wants mandatory jail time for anyone caught carrying one. Editors at the BBC argue that the problem may be overblown. To me, it seems like what people are missing is the fundamental difference between [...]

The July 5th issue of The Economist has two articles pertaining to Canada and climate change. There is one on the Dion carbon tax and another on the pine beetle infestation in our western forests. Both topics have come up here before, but remain pertinent and worthy of discussion.
The critical ongoing question in the first [...]

While road bike style tires create less friction as they move across the pavement, it is worth remembering that they perform poorly in some situations. For instance, when a crowd has gathered atop a bike path in order to watch a Blues Festival show for free, prompting you to try riding beside the path instead. [...]

Emily got a gorgeous Montreal-made hybrid bike yesterday. It’s an Opus Urbano, and should prompt much exploration of the areas in and around Ottawa.
Fellow cyclists should consider attending the June Critical Mass ride, happening in cities throughout the world. The Ottawa version starts next Friday (the 25th) at 5:30pm in Confederation Park, near City Hall.

Backpacks are too hot for Ottawa in summer, but I need something in which to carry around my third level gear (first level gear goes in trouser pockets, second level in rain jacket pockets). Bicycle panniers are no good for this task, both because they don’t have the right sort of pockets and because they [...]

Today’s festival occurred amidst alternating periods of harsh sun and explosive thunderstorm. Several times, the artists had to clear the stage due to the danger of bolts being drawn their way. The audience scattered and artists, staff, VIPs, and volunteers huddled in whichever tents were not collapsing. Thankfully, everything was clear and beautiful for Andrea’s [...]