We political groupies are getting out fix today and not just from the installation of His Excellency the Rt Hon David Johnston as Governor General. It's not often we get pomp and ceremony and a gathering of former governors general and prime ministers joined by 156 extraordinary Canadians invited to represent the rest of us.
I can't recall a more fitting choice for Governor General, my disappointment having been expressed before with the selection of some past incumbents. David Johnston is exceptional for having served Canada outside politics inclining me to recall Vincent Massey and Georges Vanier.
Best wishes, Sir.
Now tell me what is the written in binary under your coat-of-arms?
On a more prosaic level, Canada's chattering class woke up to a refreshed version of our treasured Globe and Mail. Newspapers infamously tout redesigns as the salvation of printed media and the Globe is no exception today reminding readers of a billion dollar, ten year commitment to printing the news on dead trees. The Globe is going a bit further though and this is what impresses; it's revamped its digital offerings to engage and enlighten those who get their fix in a stream of electrons and it has launched an effort to improve the standard of debate in it's online comments and forums. Among the changes recommended by a group of Globe readers is an emphasis on the use of real names by those who avail themselves of the opportunity to have their words published on the Globe's website. Anonymity has been the bane of responsible debate on newspaper websites such that anything the Globe does to elevate the debate is welcome.
Finally, a stunningly beautiful day - here in Markham and in Ottawa - red maples framed against a deep blue sky and illuminated by brilliant sunlight. It's enough to inspire the most cynical amongst us “To envisage a better world” as the Governor General's motto challenges. A great day!
