Of Queens And Kings

Of Queens.....

It would be a crime to skip over two major historical events that this octogenarian has lived long enough to witness.

There has been a lot of coverage of the 60th Anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II of England, especially by the CBC! And this is how it should be.

As Canadians (First Nations - kanata or land) we inherited the Westminster style parliamentary system and, as a country we are included in the Commonwealth of Nations. Officially she is the Queen of Canada (Reine du Canada) and has a constitutional role that is carried out - more or less - by the Governor General and the Lieutenant Governors and viceroys.

However, as a loyal Canadian, in spite of, or perhaps because of our history, I only find myself being drawn into this engaging celebration as a form of entertainment. I enjoyed the flotilla of  boats on the Thames, and spent one evening watching the Queen's Concert. (I suffered quietly through the performers prior to Tom Jones!) I must say the fireworks were spectacular.

The British are correct in seeing this event as an opportunity to celebrate their nation. During these years of recession, foreign wars, public scandals, civil unrest and bad weather, it is a good thing to boost the spirit of a nation and to feel loyal and proud about their country. But as Canadians, we have suffered through two Great Wars across the ocean, (and many others not so great), matured into adulthood and are recognized by the rest of the world as a nation that is capable and strong. So I say 'God save the Queen' and keep her safe...In England!

Of Kings.....

The second event: Bring on the LA Kings (never a winner of the cup) and the NHL Stanly Cup playoffs. I watched the first period of the first game and that was enough. How did professional hockey turn into a Bush League? Did those players even know there was a puck on the ice? Get the man any way you can - high sticks, charging, cross checking, tripping and slamming into the boards - to name a few. Yet, the Official rules of the game list many types of penalties and infractions described as fouls. Then there is a listing of what constitutes major penalties, bench-minor, double-minor, match, misconduct etc. To make it complete - bring in the clowns - and that is just what they did at half-time, clown clothes and all! What a circus.

Now I am really sounding like an old curmudgeon, and as an octogenarian so be it! But what happened to great skating and play making skills, stick handling that would make a ballerina jealous, discipline and and respect. In the playoffs, when emotions run high, it has always been a tradition that the referees give a little slack. But there must be a limit, even if in the beginning it slows down the game. I don't watch Bush League very often!

The series is not over yet. I was drawn to the Wednesday night fourth and perhaps final clash. I was surprised. There was great improvement. The plays were much better and there was fantastic goal keeping. Perhaps there is still fulfillment for the great game of hockey. I hope so.

And that's Dick's View of the World this Week