"Taboo" is Really Taboo in Abbotsford

RIDGE MEADOWS DISH

February 11, 2012

"Taboo, the Naughty but Nice Show" has been cancelled this year in Abbotsford due to complaints and protests by a handful of small closed minded people. Led by a handful of Right Wing Fundamentalists, they have become a a complete wrecking ball with just a quick swipe of a pen.

In an era, where sexual liberality is the norm (YES, it is the norm) and in a time where the importance of a sex positive culture prevents needless deaths.  The Naughty by Nice Show has had a history of shows across Canada and had their show in Vancouver this past January.

Realizing that Abbotsford is in the heart of the 'Canadian Bible Belt' here in BC, it stands to reason that there would be voices of discontent and concern over the open display of sexuality. 

My problem is the ass backwards thinking behind the protesting. With the economy in Canada as slow moving as it is. The economic gains to the city alone should outweigh the cons of the protesters. The city of Abbotsford will lose a great deal of extra revenue from not hosting the three day show. Hotels will be emptier, restaurants slower and several vendors who make a large portion of their income from doing these types of shows. 

I'm all for protesting and standing up for what you believe in, but geez people it's the 21st century! This is not the dark ages. Men and women are subjected to sexuality in daily life (just from watching television alone). The show is geared to adults so no MINORS are allowed in anyways. Where is the problem. 

If you don't want to see the show don't go. Isn't that the better solution. Humans have this incredible gift called free will and a mind to think with. That should be all that is necessary to facilitate a decision whether to attend an event such as this. There are no displays outside of the facility and there is always security making sure underage kids don't make it inside.

It's time that some heads were pulled out the proverbial ASS and wake up and smell the evolution of man. 

This is obviously a rant and I'm definitely on the side of the show. If it wasn't for shows like this, some people would never learn that being proud of your sexuality is not a bad thing. These shows teach tolerance for different sexual orientations, preferences and educates thousands on the merits of 'safe sex'. (Yes, we can have safe sex now it's a new thing they call a CONDOM) You know the things Right Wing Fundamentalists DON'T want to hand out. 

Final thoughts....Grow up Abbotsford. We all have to some time. Now is yours.

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UPDATE

Thanks to a letter, email and phone call campaign to the Organizers, Convention Center and City Council. The Taboo - Naughty but Nice Show was re-instated and was held on May 11, 12, 13. 

There were a handful of protesters in front of the Trade-ex attempting to block entry and show their discontent for visitors. In the end, the show went off brilliantly. Albeit, a terrible weekend to host the show as it was 'Mother's Day' weekend.

Change is possible when we bind together as a community and show our integrity, perseverance and dedication to positive sex culture.

Golfing Our Pensions Away

RIDGE MEADOWS DISH

February 5, 2012

In a time of fiscal restraints, downsized economy, staggering unemployment and tightening of belt straps. A group of lobbyists are working diligently to allow MP's to take a 50% tax deduction off of their golfing green fees.

Yes, you read that correctly. While tax payers are struggling to keep a roof over their heads and food on their tables, a group of MP's want to play golf on YOUR dime and take a tax break for it. 

Where in that statement is there any type of fiscal logic? A 50% tax deduction is 50% less that the government is taking in to pay down the ever growing deficit and debt load. 

I apologize to all the golfers out there but this is just insanity, plain and simple. Out of one side of the government's mouth they are feverishly attempting to bump up the age of eligibility for Canada Pension and out of the other they are saying that major decisions and discussions on the links should be tax deductible.

I should point out that the MP's already receive an expense reimbursement for food and beverages that are consumed at the golf course and what they are looking for is a 50% tax deduction for their green fees. Memberships to golf courses are NOT being included in this request. 

In my ever humble opinion, I believe that more emphasis should be placed on finding money to bump up health care, education and employment in the country rather than saving $100 on a round of golf. 

I'm sorry Members of Parliament but this one is just pushing it too far. To Prime Minister Stephen Harper, I beg you to look at all the homeless and those in need of better health care and tell them 'they can't get any help because we had to give all the golfers a break instead'. 

All else fails, elections work wonders!