NationStates Jolt Archive

And people say its the US that will someday occupy Canada.... :D

Actually, I think this is pretty cool. A few more billionaires should do the same. (Gatesville, anyone?) Too bad some people didn't like the Canada flag being flown.

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http://www.cbc.ca/story/world/national/2005/12/16/canadaville_stronach051216.html

Stronach's U.S.-based Canadaville ready for business
Last Updated Fri, 16 Dec 2005 13:40:19 EST
CBC News

A tiny taste of Canada will come to life in the heart of Louisiana's bayou when a controversial housing project built by a Canadian billionaire for victims of hurricane Katrina officially opens on Saturday.

Each with tiny yards and covered porches, brand new mobile homes sit in neat rows in auto-parts giant Frank Stronach's Canadaville.

http://www.cbc.ca/gfx/pix/canadaville_house051216.jpg

The Magna International chairman decided to build the community after seeing hurricane victims in the flooded streets of New Orleans in August.

Stronach, who will attend the opening ceremonies, first flew dozens of people to Florida to live in his posh, horse-training facility.

He then built them homes – filled with furniture and appliances – on 325 hectares of farmland he had purchased on the outskirts of Simmesport, a town about 100 kilometres from Baton Rouge.

Initially home to 110 people, Canadaville's population could grow to 300. The people who live there get free rent for five years and they'll try to find jobs in Simmesport or work on an organic farm Stronach plans for Canadaville.

Stronach, 73, has hopes that Magna Organic Farm, which will grow produce and raise chickens, hogs and cattle, will turn a profit within a handful of years.

Stronach will also pay for upgrades to Simmesport's water, sewage and infrastructure, build a community centre with soccer fields and basketball courts, and pay for three new police officers.

Simmesport Mayor James Fontineau says the town hopes Stronach will build an auto-parts plant in the area, which has high unemployment.

"I've been told that in a couple of years, they're going to try to build an auto-parts plant, but so far no commitment in writing or anything," he said.

Simmesport uneasy about project

Fontineau downplayed opposition to the project by some of Simmesport's 2,300 residents. In one incident, a Canadian flag flying next to a U.S. flag was cut down.

"Some service people ... they just don't like the Canadian flag and the American flag flying at the same height," he said.

Local officials hope the newcomers, all subject to background checks, will integrate with Simmesport.

Residents Steve Mayeux and Charles Austin are split on the idea of Canadaville.

Mayeux, an agricultural consultant, says there are unrealistic job expectations. He calls it a "public relations ploy for Frank Stronach and Magna International."

Stronach spokesperson Dennis Mills acknowledged that the people moving to Canadaville aren't farmers, but Stronach felt he had to act.

"When people are drowning, you can't just look the other way," said Mills.
Canadaville resident Dana Richardson.

Austin, a photographer, says he was initially opposed to the plan because of reports of violence, drugs and rapes in New Orleans following the hurricane.

"We were definitely afraid of getting those people here."

But Austin says he changed his mind after meeting some of the people and hearing their stories. "They're all normal people like us."

Canadaville resident Dana Richardson, who had to be airlifted from her flooded home in New Orleans, said she hopes to live there with her daughter for as long as she can.

"We have something to call our own again," said Richardson. "It's just great to have a new start."

ghey

ghey
What? It's a bad thing that someone built a new village for Katrina victims, is offering them jobs, and is upgrading the infrastructure of a neighbouring town?

Wow. That's some great empathy you've got there.

Hahaha!

I love the US. It's so deliciously evil. It is by far the richest country in the world, yet has no problem taking handouts from foreigners; all the while telling everyone else to be "more self-reliant."

It's not that they don't like the canadian flag being flown.According to law, when a flag is being flown on a flag pole that is next to the US flag it cannot be flown at the same height. However, cutting down the canadian flag was not the correct recourse, I would just have lowered it a little bit. Unless the person flying the canadian flag was obviously flying it at the same height as the US flag with the specific intention of being disrespectful. I'm absolutely sure that this wouldn't be the case, we all know that Canadians being the most polite, understanding people in the whole world would never ever do something so rude.

It's not that they don't like the canadian flag being flown.According to law, when a flag is being flown on a flag pole that is next to the US flag it cannot be flown at the same height. However, cutting down the canadian flag was not the correct recourse, I would just have lowered it a little bit. Unless the person flying the canadian flag was obviously flying it at the same height as the US flag with the specific intention of being disrespectful. I'm absolutely sure that this wouldn't be the case, we all know that Canadians being the most polite, understanding people in the whole world would never ever do something so rude.Ah, that helps me understand. See, where we have flags of multiple nations flying, including Canada and the US, they are all at an equal height.

Hahaha!

I love the US. It's so deliciously evil. It is by far the richest country in the world, yet has no problem taking handouts from foreigners; all the while telling everyone else to be "more self-reliant."


Yeah 56% of the corrupt UN's budget, billions of government tax dollars in foreign aid to countries who hate us. not counting billions of dollars in private donations from us citizens. When tsunami's destroyed south asia the rest of the world whined because the US didn't donate enough, but when the entire gulf coast is wiped off the face of the map the rest of the world can't be bothered to help. The hate the us when she tried to look out for her interests (we know the rest of the world never does that right Chirac?) but they still want our money.

Yeah 56% of the corrupt UN's budget, billions of government tax dollars in foreign aid to countries who hate us. not counting billions of dollars in private donations from us citizens. When tsunami's destroyed south asia the rest of the world whined because the US didn't donate enough, but when the entire gulf coast is wiped off the face of the map the rest of the world can't be bothered to help. The hate the us when she tried to look out for her interests (we know the rest of the world never does that right Chirac?) but they still want our money.Can't be bothered to help? What was this news article about?

What about the three ships of supplies, the Navy divers, the search and rescue teams, the RCMP, the field hospitals, the cash donations from government, companies, and individuals, and people opening their homes to people in need? And that's just what Canada did. Plenty of other nations helped too.

You sound awfully bitter.

Ah, that helps me understand. See, where we have flags of multiple nations flying, including Canada and the US, they are all at an equal height.

Exactly, that is why you can't understand why some americans have so much respect for their country, because you don't have it for yours, you don't feel the need to display your apprecaition for that fact that you live in a place that gives you a better quality of life than some other place by flying your nations flag higher than say, sudan? Because there really isn't much to be thankful for when you live in Toronto as oppoesed to Mogadishu

Exactly, that is why you can't understand why some americans have so much respect for their country, because you don't have it for yours, you don't feel the need to display your apprecaition for that fact that you live in a place that gives you a better quality of life than some other place by flying your nations flag higher than say, sudan? Because there really isn't much to be thankful for when you live in Toronto as oppoesed to MogadishuHoly Hell. You are just a silver-tongued sweet talker, aren't you? Just because I don't feel the need to have my flag in a higher position than another country's flag does NOT mean I have no pride in my country. Don't you DARE accuse me, or damn near any other Canadian of that. We may not show it in the same way as citizens of other countries, but no one should ever doubt the pride we have.

Oh wait.

You've only got 3 posts.

Dammit! I've been trolled, and I let it get to me.

Never mind.

Exactly, that is why you can't understand why some americans have so much respect for their country, because you don't have it for yours, you don't feel the need to display your apprecaition for that fact that you live in a place that gives you a better quality of life than some other place by flying your nations flag higher than say, sudan? Because there really isn't much to be thankful for when you live in Toronto as oppoesed to Mogadishu

Of course, the law you are talking about, if it exists, would be completely unconsitutional.

A private individual, or company, can take a shit on the flag, and fly it upside down below every other flag in the world, if he/she/it chooses.

I think people are getting lost in the true meaning and that is helping out those who need help. Who cares where it comes from. If they want to fly the Maple Leaf next to the Stars & Stripes then that's fine by me. Nobody seems to have a problem during hockey games where both flags hang from the rafters right next to each other. Hell, they don't even have a problem singing both national anthems before each game (which I know both by heart). I lived down in Louisiana in an area of the state known as Acadia (northshore of Lake Ponchartrain in St. Tammany Parrish) which if anybody knows their history some of the people that settled there were deportees from Nova Scotia from the Seven Years War between the French & English. They are also known as cajuns.

Yeah 56% of the corrupt UN's budget, billions of government tax dollars in foreign aid to countries who hate us. not counting billions of dollars in private donations from us citizens. When tsunami's destroyed south asia the rest of the world whined because the US didn't donate enough, but when the entire gulf coast is wiped off the face of the map the rest of the world can't be bothered to help. The hate the us when she tried to look out for her interests (we know the rest of the world never does that right Chirac?) but they still want our money.

Yeah, that's like saying all the middle class people should chip in to rebuild the millionaires roof after a tornado, because he sometimes puts money in the poor box and pays some of his taxes on time.

Anyway, if you expect something back, it's not charity.

I see some of you are confused as to the US flag codes. Here's a link that explains in detail those codes. You'll notice the International code where it says:

11. When flags of two or more nations are displayed, they are to be flown from separate staffs of the same height. The flags should be of approximately equal size. International usage forbids the display of the flag of one nation above that of another nation in time of peace.

Section 7


No other flag or pennant should be placed above or, if on the same level, to the right of the flag of the United States of America, except during church services conducted by naval chaplains at sea, when the church pennant may be flown above the flag during church services for the personnel of the Navy. No person shall display the flag of the United Nations or any other national or international flag equal, above, or in a position of superior prominence or honor to, or in place of, the flag of the United States at any place within the United States or any Territory or possession thereof: Provided, That nothing in this section shall make unlawful the continuance of the practice heretofore followed of displaying the flag of the United Nations in a position of superior prominence or honor, and other national flags in positions of equal prominence or honor, with that of the flag of the United States at the headquarters of the United Nations.

http://www.ushistory.org/betsy/flagetiq.html

What's the big deal here? Some ultrarich Canadian is helping out some poor people in Louisiana. Christ, it's not like it's the Canadian government doing this, it's a private citizen showing that private charity is often far more effective than government inefficiency.

Right on.

I believe there is a tiny taste of canada in all of us.

One day they'll all be speaking Canadian.

One day they'll all be speaking Canadian.
It would be aboot damn time.

Dobbs, are you watching the debate right now?

Sorry, I was watching the debate just then. What's up?

Who do you think won the debate?

Ah, that helps me understand. See, where we have flags of multiple nations flying, including Canada and the US, they are all at an equal height.Every country in the world should start to fly the US flag below all the others and see how the Americans react.

Who do you think won the debate?
I'm not sure if anyone did win. Maybe because I didn't pay too much attention at parts near the middle. I think Duceppe did quite well in the beginning, but was kinda lousy near the end. I quite enjoyed watching Laytons mic getting turned off all those times.

Nobody won, though Harper lost rather decidedly. Or so I thought.

it's not like it's the Canadian government doing this


Just b/c they didn't build a small town doesn't mean the canadian government didn't help out. We sent a lot of supplies and such to the areas which Katrina hit, including a a few ships filled w/ supplies. And also, the US gov't didn't want to accept a lot of 'aid' b/c you're expected to pay it back, and how often do you get to pay back a modernized country? Private citizens on the other hand, why would you want to pay them back (although, chances are he got a tax redemption on his US property).

More on Canadaville:

What is expected of the residents?

Canadaville's residents will be allowed to stay rent free for up to five years. If they can't find jobs in the area on their own, they will be expected to work on the farm. Each resident is also expected to perform some community service. Eventually, most will likely return to the New Orleans area to try to pick up their lives. Any homes that they leave behind will be turned over to the Red Cross so the charity can use them for others who need housing. But some residents say they have no intention of going back to the "Big Easy," and hope to stay in Canadaville for years.

Who else has helped the Canadaville effort?

While Stronach has footed most of the bills, the effort has been supported by plenty of donations and volunteers. Nineteen Canadian carpenters went to Louisiana in November to donate their time and expertise by building the wood porches on the homes. The evacuees got free flights from Air Canada. The village was designed by the Toronto-based architectural firm Giffels/NORR. Other help was provided by the Canadian Auto Workers union, the Canadian Red Cross, St. John Ambulance Canada, employees of various Magna companies and many Louisiana residents.

What was the reaction in Simmesport?

There was some hostility. The majority of town councillors was initially against the proposal. Mobile home parks are often a hard sell at the best of times. And this one would be home to people from an especially poor and crime-ridden part of New Orleans. Would these streetwise transplants adapt to rural life? Would they cause trouble?

Some are skeptical that anyone would want to spend millions in an act of generosity unless he eventually expected something big in return. Others don't like that the Canadian flag is flying alongside the U.S. flag.

But local politicians and many of Simmesport's residents were won over as the new village created work and Stronach suggested that he may build a small manufacturing facility nearby for his company.

New Orleans newspaper columnist John Maginnis said the folks around Simmesport are "so bowled over" by the Canadaville project that many have put aside their initial objections.

"Oh, Canadaville, would that your spirit find its way into the hearts of more Louisiana communities," he wrote.

Are there any other Canadians who are bit miffed that this 'Canadaville' is comprised of mobile homes? I mean...we're being represented by a trailer park! :p

Are there any other Canadians who are bit miffed that this 'Canadaville' is comprised of mobile homes? I mean...we're being represented by a trailer park! :p
I vote Ricky for Trailer Park Supervisor. That Mr. Lahey is too drunk to look after Sunnyva- I mean, Canadaville, properly when he's been hitting the booze. And his boyfriend Randy needs a shirt.

Are there any other Canadians who are bit miffed that this 'Canadaville' is comprised of mobile homes? I mean...we're being represented by a trailer park! :p
Provided they have enough funny bacon and syrup I think the representation will be accurate enough.

Are there any other Canadians who are bit miffed that this 'Canadaville' is comprised of mobile homes? I mean...we're being represented by a trailer park! :pWhat? You mean other Canadians don't live in trailers? :D

I vote Ricky for Trailer Park Supervisor. That Mr. Lahey is too drunk to look after Sunnyva- I mean, Canadaville, properly when he's been hitting the booze. And his boyfriend Randy needs a shirt.
No! Anyone but Ricky!

I'll take Bubbles over Ricky. But if we have to have a supervisor, I vote for Julien.

No! Anyone but Ricky!

I'll take Bubbles over Ricky. But if we have to have a supervisor, I vote for Julien.
What about Corey for supervisor and Trevor for assistant?

What about Corey for supervisor and Trevor for assistant?

I vote for J-Rock and the Rock Pile.

What about Corey for supervisor and Trevor for assistant?I take that back. Not anyone but Ricky. Those two would be even worse. <shudder>

It occurs to me that if the Trailer Park Boys are running the place, Canadaville's organic farm would be growing only one crop.

But it would definitely be profitable - especially since Canadaville is paying off...er... providing the local cops.