Well, it has once again snowed in Castor Alberta. Stormy our delightful old gal of a cocker spaniel has gone back into self-imposed hibernation only awakening only for the opening of the fridge door or the lifting of the cookie jar.
When I got into the journalism business years ago it was like with most not as a holder of a journalism degree. My field was economics, and like most economists could put people to sleep instantaneously discussing the difference between the Smith and Nash models of economic theory.
My passion for writing and respect for journalism were nurtured during my tenure at office 265 in the Saskatchewan Legislature from 1982 to 1985. Under the leadership of Alan Blakeney, I was trained by Gary Aldridge in the sophisticated art of political communication. I can attest that these years were among the most enjoyable and productive politically for esteemed MLAs such as Dwain Lingenfelter, Ned Shillington, and even Roy Romanow, despite him not holding his previous seat.
It was not until I was introduced to Regina Leader-Post reporter Dale Eisler and CTV News reporter Wayne Mantyka that I began to develop a more journalistic style in my writing. After publishing several articles in The Commonwealth, The Alberta Democrat, The Leader-Post, and other publications, I attracted the interest of Allan Fotheringham. Subsequently, I moved east to Toronto, and Alan MacKinnon (aka me) emerged as a recognized name in the field.
At this point, I was extremely exhausted, experiencing significant stress, and feeling anxious about my new surroundings. Like an unending cycle, I reached my lowest point. I ceased writing and developed a profound discomfort with myself. Contrary to what one might expect during such times, few friends offered their support. Fortunately, my true friends, Albert and Wendy MacDonald, along with Father Joseph McDonald, provided crucial support, likely saving me from severe introspection that could have endangered my life.
After several years away from writing, my friends and colleagues Peter Carter and Diane Sim encouraged and supported me in returning to this craft. This time, however, my approach is different. I am committed to eliminating spin and avoiding petty politics. My aim is to uncover and report on reality, seeking the truth amidst the complexities of spin and jargon.
Today, Business is no surprise Village Media ( villagemedia.ca ) Village Media is a collection of small regional newspapers in Ontario. as well as Toronto Today (torontotoday.ca), which still hasn't hired this cantankerous old reporter, but we keep working at them. Be sure to subscribe to their papers and support their patrons and advertisers in your area.
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