OT: Vancouver, BC Help

On Mon, 22 May 2006 03:39:44 -0400, DGG wrote:
> I was pleasently surprised to read that you do not require a license to
> operate amature radio equpiment.

Huh? That can't be correct.

--
Art Greenberg
artg AT eclipse remove-this DOT net

On Mon, 22 May 2006 13:54:51 -0400, DGG wrote:
> Art Greenberg said:
>
> >On Mon, 22 May 2006 03:39:44 -0400, DGG wrote:
> >> I was pleasently surprised to read that you do not require a license to
> >> operate amature radio equpiment.
> >
> >Huh? That can't be correct.
>
> That's what I thought as well, but I got that from the Canadian
> Government web site - for whatever that is worth.
> So many details - so little time... <and such bad speeling> :-\

Please cite the URL.

--
Art Greenberg
artg at eclipse dot net

On Mon, 22 May 2006 18:02:28 -0000, Art Greenberg wrote:
> On Mon, 22 May 2006 13:54:51 -0400, DGG wrote:
> > Art Greenberg said:
> >
> > >On Mon, 22 May 2006 03:39:44 -0400, DGG wrote:
> > >> I was pleasently surprised to read that you do not require a license to
> > >> operate amature radio equpiment.
> > >
> > >Huh? That can't be correct.
> >
> > That's what I thought as well, but I got that from the Canadian
> > Government web site - for whatever that is worth.
> > So many details - so little time... <and such bad speeling> :-\
>
> Please cite the URL.

Never mind, I looked myself. You are wrong. From the "Amateur Certification
Fact Sheet" found at:

http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/epic/internet/insmt-gst.nsf/en/sf01862e.html

"Effective April 1, 2000, Industry Canada has combined these documents into
one authorization, the Amateur Radio Operator Certificate. This certificate is
the sole authorization required to operate amateur radio apparatus in the
amateur radio service."

And, from:

http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/epic/internet/insmt-gst.nsf/en/sf01636e.html#qualifi

"Authority to operate radio apparatus in the amateur radio service is issued
to holders of an Amateur Radio Operator Certificate with Basic Qualification.

"Other qualifications available with the Amateur Radio Operator Certificate
are Morse code and Advanced Qualifications.

"Operating privileges are granted according to the level of achievement.
Attaining honours scores (i.e. 80% or above) on the Basic examination or
attaining qualifications in addition to the Basic Amateur Certificate will
grant the amateur certificate holder certain additional operating privileges
as specified in RIC-2, giving full access to the amateur frequency bands below
30 MHz (i.e. high frequency (HF))."

Reading a bit further down this page, you'll find equivalencies and other
important related information.

There may be a two-way radio service available to Canadian residents that does
not require obtaining a government issued license, but it is definitely NOT
the Amateur Radio Service.

--
Art Greenberg
artg at eclipse dot net

On Mon, 22 May 2006 19:32:14 -0400, DGG wrote:
> --------
> Radio transmitting equipment
>
> A U.S. resident is allowed to operate aircraft, marine, amateur,
> citizen band (CB), and Family Radio Service (FRS) radios as well as
> cellular and PCS mobile radiotelephones in Canada, without explicit
> permission from the Minister of Industry.
>
> If you are not a U.S. resident, you will need permission from Industry
> Canada to use this equipment.
> ------------
>
> http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/E/pub/cp/rc4161/rc4161-e.html

In the case of licensed services, such as the Amateur Service, that only
applies to license holders.

Now, if you want to operate on the Amateur bands, why don't you get a license?
I did it when I was 12. It really isn't all that difficult.

--
Art Greenberg
artg at eclipse dot net

On Mon, 22 May 2006 22:32:27 -0400, DGG wrote:
> Obtained a license when I was a teen - then upgraded so that I could repair
> and maintain equipment later on.

You don't get any kind of repair & maintenance privileges with an Amateur
license, and you don't need any special license to work on that gear, at least
not in the US. Broadcast and commercial two-way work did at one time require a
Radiotelephone License, quite a different animal from an Amateur license. I
don't know if that is still the case.

> But I will have to again bone up on Morse code, as that is something I
> haven't used in over 20 years. At the time, I was mostly interested in
> slow scan video.

Well if you're going to do this while you're still in the US .... 5 WPM is
the top code speed. You can get a Technician class license without Morse.
The General class license requires 5 WPM, and upgrading to Extra class
from General class is done without any additional code test.

Look at http://www.arrl.org/arrlvec/license-requirements.html

Canada's license structure is different, and I didn't pay attention to the
requirements, which I think were posted on the URL I cited earlier.

> I am actually surprised at the number of people who actually remember what
> the ARRL or a 10 meter band IS at this point in time. Must be a lot of old
> farts in here... ;-)

I've been a ham since 1965. During sunspot peaks, 10 has been my favorite
band. I used to drive around with a converted CB rig in my car, and could
easily chat with hams in South Africa with just 5 watts AM and a 100-inch whip
antenna. Way cool.

Woodworking came much, much later.

But I think you'll find there are plenty of younger folks getting into ham
radio these days. Things aren't as dismal as you seem to think.

Anyway, we've used plenty of the group's bandwidth on this off-topic branch of
the discussion. Feel free to follow up with me via email if you wish. Address
is below.

Good luck with your move, and everything that follows.

--
Art Greenberg
artg at eclipse dot net

DGG wrote:
> Oleg Lego said:
>
>> The Tanus entity posted thusly:
>
>>> Depends on where you are in the country. I live in Ottawa and -30
>>> C(don't bother with the conversion to F - it's just fucking cold) is
>>> not uncommon. Vancouver rarely gets snow, and averages above freezing
>>> for most of the winter. However, Whistler Mountain & Ski Resort is a
>>> short drive away and they get tons of snow.
>> I would add that 0 degrees and misty/drizzling in Vancouver feels a
>> heck of a lot colder than -20 in the prairie provinces.
>
> It's not the cold, it's the humidity... ;-)

Not that I have found compared to Ontario, where I retired from.. [g]
Of course, Vancouver gets it's 'humidity' in the form of rain, twice
as much per year compared to Victoria, where I live.

>
>>>> Is English the predominant language of BC?
>>> Yes
>> In some suburban areas (Burnaby, Surrey, Richmond), that may no longer
>> be the case.
>
> Meaning that Asian languages have become dominant?
> I seem to recall that Quebec passed a "predominately French" sign law
> years ago, but it's _way_ to cold there for my degenerating bones.

Asian on the mainland which is what he was referring to, not so much
over here. I have never heard announcements made in so many languages
as I did in Seatac when passing through.

>
>> Make that "The Canadian governments are less concerned with individual
>> rights." Places like Ontario and eastward seem to go along with lots
>> of government control and socialism.
>
> Speaking of socialism, how do you handle automobile insurance?
> Is it Mandatory?

Yes, provincial government run via local insurance offices. Buy
insurance, get plates for cars. Decent rates for old fogies [g]

>
> Will I be penalized for 200,000 other idiots talking on cell-phones,
> even though I've not had an accident in 20 years and a million miles?

Provide proof from existing insurance companies of past accident free
claims and get max deduction..

>
> Is it even legal to drive and talk on the phone?
> Or (_please_ say it's so) do you not have cell services?

Unfortunately .. yes, it is legal, but I wish it weren't.. too many
distractions to driving as it is.

> I was pleasently surprised to read that you do not require a license
> to operate amature radio equpiment.

Not sure about that, would have to ask a ham friend of mine.

>>> We tend to aim for social solutions. Neither is better;
>> Spoken like a true-red Ontarian.
>
> Uh, oh - Province wars... <ducking>

East vs West.. [g]

>
> Thanks again, guys.
> I realize this isn't quite the appropriate forum for this, but I've
> gleaned more useful info here in a few minutes than anywhere else.
>
> dgg
>


--
_____________Slainte!____________
C D Patterson Langford, BC. Canada
Marmot Days http://bc-bear.blogspot.com
Artist's Site: http://www.Altered-Art.com
Web Design: http://www.CbearAssoc.com

In article <[email protected]>, DGG
<[email protected]> wrote:

> Speaking of socialism, how do you handle automobile insurance?
> Is it Mandatory?

Yes. It's been 14 years since I lived in Vancouver but I believe it's
no private sectore competition for basic auto insurance, but a
provincial agency. This may have changed.

Nirodac said:

>You do not need a license for "CB", or "RC" models, but you still most
>likely need one for "Ham radio". You can drive and talk on the cell
>phone all you like, it's still legal. Whistler is a two hour drive from
>Vancouver on the deadly'est road in BC (Maybe western Canada) and while
>it gets a ton of snow, Vancouver (at sea level) gets mayby a trace in a
>given year, if that. A cold wave is when the temperature drops to 32
>degrees F.
>House prices in Vancouver are the highest in Canada, and I filled up with
>gas on Friday at $1.20 CDN, for 1 liter. We have two Lee Valley outlets,
>one Busy-Bee tools, two KMS tools, 1 Summit tools, and of course the
>Borg. (needed to add the woodworking component to the post).

So, the radio requirements aren't too dissimilar to the US.
It's too bad about cell-phones - I consider them a scourge upon
society. Not only a severe safety issue while driving, but a factor
in the dumbing-down of the populace as well.
Mass-NonThink scares the hell out of me. JMHO.

House prices aren't as much a consideration as land prices, and when I
stated Vancouver, I didn't mean Vancouver proper, but more outside the
ring of dense population. More interested in building my own
passive-solar cabin with a woodworking shop out back. Bears and owls
and moose make far better neighbors than what I have here... ;-)

I did check gas prices on the Internet, and while expensive, perhaps
not as expensive as it's going to be shortly in the US. It is my
understanding that the US imports much oil from Canada, you guys might
end up being better off than the masses here.

As for the elevation, I want to be a minimum of 30 feet above sea
level. And it could still end up being waterfront property before I'm
dead.

As for the cold and snow, that is one reason I picked the Vancouver
area, it is in a more temperate zone than the rest of the Great White
North. It's all pretty nice in the summer, but in winter - brrrrr.
Don't want to live in an area where you die if your car breaks down.

And back to woodworking, you apparently have far more tool outlets and
wood suppliers than we do, and I live in a metro area with well over 6
million people - and growing. Rapidly, Uncontrollably, and Without
Plan or Reason.

Thanks
dgg

"Eddie Munster" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>
> DGG wrote:
> > And if all else fails, I'll marry a native.
>
> With a fun attitude like that you should have a ball!!

Just as long as he doesn't run into Jimmy at the post office. Should that
happen, I suspect he'll be moving back to the good ole' USA mighty quick. ~
to maintain his sanity and all that good stuff.

:)

Art Greenberg said:

>On Mon, 22 May 2006 19:32:14 -0400, DGG wrote:
>> --------
>> Radio transmitting equipment
>>
>> A U.S. resident is allowed to operate aircraft, marine, amateur,
>> citizen band (CB), and Family Radio Service (FRS) radios as well as
>> cellular and PCS mobile radiotelephones in Canada, without explicit
>> permission from the Minister of Industry.
>>
>> If you are not a U.S. resident, you will need permission from Industry
>> Canada to use this equipment.
>> ------------
>>
>> http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/E/pub/cp/rc4161/rc4161-e.html
>
>In the case of licensed services, such as the Amateur Service, that only
>applies to license holders.
>
>Now, if you want to operate on the Amateur bands, why don't you get a license?
>I did it when I was 12. It really isn't all that difficult.

OK - I surrender. ;-)
Did a 10 minute read of a CA gov site, and mistakenly assumed
something which was untrue. The wording was vague.

Obtained a license when I was a teen - then upgraded so that I could
repair and maintain equipment later on. All equipment and paperwork
was destroyed in the late 80's. Never bothered to replace either,
unfortunately, because it was never a big money maker. But the times,
they are a changin... And I now feel the need/desire to hop back on
the radio waves. But I will have to again bone up on Morse code, as
that is something I haven't used in over 20 years. At the time, I was
mostly interested in slow scan video.

I am actually surprised at the number of people who actually remember
what the ARRL or a 10 meter band IS at this point in time. Must be a
lot of old farts in here... ;-)

Especially surprising after watching three 20-something guys drive a
car for over a mile with a flat tire Saturday night - totally
mystified as to how to change a tire. They eventually called someone
on the cell phone, after pressing buttons on the key FOB didn't
magically fix the problem. Truly a pathetic display of clueless-ness.

Thanks for the clarification.

DL said:

>On Sun, 21 May 2006 22:42:24 -0400, DGG<[email protected]> wrote:
>
>>I'm assuming this is the equivalent of the US State's sales tax -
>>which can be anywhere from 5 to 8% - so that's in line...
>>The loss of mortgage deduction is unfortunate, however.
>
>That's only the half ot it. In provinces other than Alberta you ALSO
>pay a 7% local sales tax in addition to the GST. So sales tax is
>actually 14%.

Ouch - a 54% total tax rate.
There had better be some mighty fine women in BC. ;-)
I'd like to have a family before my sperm turns to dust.. :-\

Thanks,
dgg

Sorry for the top posting, but I'm going at each one of his questions in
turn.

DGG wrote:
> Hello,
>
> I am considering moving to Vancouver, BC and since there are a number
> of Canadians who post here, I figure this is as good a place as any to
> get the REAL story of life in the Great White North. ;-)
>
> I've looked over the official government web sites, but like most such
> sites, it's not particularly helpful.
>
> My questions are:
>
> What are the average income tax rates, and what other taxes are there
> to contend with?

Tax rates are graduated, but "average" about 40%, I think. That's not
the whole story in Canada. In some ways, we're taxed more heavily than
the US. For instance, mortgage interest is not deductible. As well,
there is our equivalent of a Value Added Tax, called the Goods & Service
Tax, or GST. It is 7% of all goods and services (some exemptions, not
sure what they are) and is paid at the til or when invoiced for a good
or service.
>
> Are "immigrants" eligible for the health care system?

Yes, after residency requirements are met. I don't know about BC, but
I'd guess it'll be in the order of 6-12 months.
>
> Gas runs about 114 cents per liter, or $3.45US per gallon, correct?

That's a bit steeper than what I pay in Ontario. I'm still below
$1/litre. At 3.8 litres per US gallon, that's $3.80 CDN a gallon. Which
is about ....um....$3.50 US/US gallon, maybe a bit less
>
> How cold does it get in the winter, and how hot in the summer?
> (Global warming not considered...)

Depends on where you are in the country. I live in Ottawa and -30
C(don't bother with the conversion to F - it's just fucking cold) is
not uncommon. Vancouver rarely gets snow, and averages above freezing
for most of the winter. However, Whistler Mountain & Ski Resort is a
short drive away and they get tons of snow.

Summer time temps are comparable with Seattle.
>
> Which side of the road do you guys drive on? lol

Depends on how sober we are,but I try to stick to the right side. I've
noticed most other sober drivers do the same.
>
> Is English the predominant language of BC?

Yes
>
> Is your government as corrupt as that of the usa's?

Corrupter. We just do it in a subtle,polite way and no one notices.
Actually most of the world doesn't really care either, which we find
agreeable.
>
> Any other useful information concerning livability would be greatly
> appreciated.

Welcome to Canada. We speak the same language, we have the same big box
stores, we have most of the same issues that the US has, but it's
different here. For one thing, we're a much smaller population, and that
contributes to scale. You threw their tea in the harbour, and we paid
the tax on it. Generally, with many exceptions, the US is more concerned
with individual rights than Canadians. We tend to aim for social
solutions. Neither is better; each has its own advantages but the
difference exists.

The above paragraph could go on for ages. Since it's woodworking, I'll
leave it at that, and wish you a wonderful time in our country once
you've made the adjustment.

Tanus
>
> Thanks,
> dg
>

Inviato da X-Privat.Org - Registrazione gratuita http://www.x-privat.org/join.php

DGG wrote:
<sniip>
>
> Speaking of which, I have quite a bit of woodworking equipment - I'm
> hoping that the voltages and frequencies are the same as the US, and
> that you don't have restrictions on bringing your own equipment into
> Canada. Dado's are legal, etc. Is there a fee involved with bringing
> your own personal possessions and equipment across the border?
>
>> Tanus
>
> Greatly appreciated!
>
> dgg
>

You didn't say whether you were professional or a hobbyist. I'll assume
you don't make your living from woodworking

In that light, I don't think there is anything that is illegal in terms
of what equipment you can use. I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm
wrong.

Voltages and frequencies are identical. If it works in the US, it'll
work here.

On bringing your stuff over, if you're moving here, it shouldn't be a
problem since it's your personal belongings and you're not bringing the
stuff into the country for resale. If you have a truckload of equipment,
Canada Customs will likely question you about it, but I'd contact them
beforehand and ask what, if anything, you have to do to prove that.

They don't have a lot of information on immigrants, but you can start
here: http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/menu-e.html

This site may tell you how to bring your equipment in:
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/index.html

Good luck

Tanus

Inviato da X-Privat.Org - Registrazione gratuita http://www.x-privat.org/join.php

On Sun, 21 May 2006 19:55:27 -0400, DGG<[email protected]> wrote:

>
>Hello,
>
>I am considering moving to Vancouver, BC and since there are a number
>of Canadians who post here, I figure this is as good a place as any to
>get the REAL story of life in the Great White North. ;-)
>
>I've looked over the official government web sites, but like most such
>sites, it's not particularly helpful.
>
[list snipped]

Did you check the official web sites thoroughly enough to find out if
you will be able to move to Canada? Under what category can you
apply? Skilled Worker? Investor? Have you done a self-evaluation to
make sure you have enough points?

On Mon, 22 May 2006 23:11:53 -0400, DGG<[email protected]> wrote:

>Bill said:
>
>>On Sun, 21 May 2006 19:55:27 -0400, DGG<[email protected]> wrote:
>
>>>I am considering moving to Vancouver, BC and since there are a number
>>>of Canadians who post here, I figure this is as good a place as any to
>>>get the REAL story of life in the Great White North. ;-)
>>[list snipped]
>>
>>Did you check the official web sites thoroughly enough to find out if
>>you will be able to move to Canada? Under what category can you
>>apply? Skilled Worker? Investor? Have you done a self-evaluation to
>>make sure you have enough points?
>
>I do a self-evaluation every morning - it's a sad thing to behold. <g>
>
>As for the skills aspect, I've been a mechanic, plumber, electrician,
>computer programmer (ASM/C/JAVA), web designer, electronics
>technician, digital design, shop manager, pseudo lawyer and general
>all around pain in the arse.
>
>And if all else fails, I'll marry a native.
>
>LOL


I've read all your posts in this thread, and you sound like quite a
lively character who could make his way anywhere on this Earth. But
will all due respect, you should be paying more attention to the
requirements of formal immigration than to the rules governing amateur
radio. You will have to satisfy Citizenship and Immigration Canada,
and if you can't muster up enough points, you won't get in. Right
now, the bar is quite low - 67 points. A few years ago it was (I
think) 75. If you are between 67 and 75 points you should get an
application in right away if this is what you want to do, because the
visa posts are swamped with applications, and the waiting times are
being measured in years. The pass mark is certain to be raised again.
Another place you might try for more information - britishexpats.com.
There are some Canada-specific discussion forums there. Good luck.

On Fri, 26 May 2006 01:04:20 -0400, DGG<[email protected]> wrote:

>Upscale said:
>
>>"DGG" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>>>
>>> Besides, a man would have great difficulty emulating the petite women
>>> I prefer. But, at last resort, there is always the Crocodile Dundee
>>> method. Grab 'em in the crotch to confirm that, at least, they aren't
>>> sporting the equipment... ;-)
>>
>>Hah! Try that on Church Street in Toronto and be prepared for the entire
>>street to come out and beat the crap out of you.
>
More likely the entire street will come out to be 'tested'.

Pete :)

Art Greenberg said:

>On Mon, 22 May 2006 13:54:51 -0400, DGG wrote:
>> Art Greenberg said:
>>
>> >On Mon, 22 May 2006 03:39:44 -0400, DGG wrote:
>> >> I was pleasently surprised to read that you do not require a license to
>> >> operate amature radio equpiment.
>> >
>> >Huh? That can't be correct.
>>
>> That's what I thought as well, but I got that from the Canadian
>> Government web site - for whatever that is worth.
>> So many details - so little time... <and such bad speeling> :-\
>
>Please cite the URL.

Well, this may have been misleading and/or incomplete.
It was mentioned in two places, one of them here, the other I can't
recall the URL. The quote was:
--------
Radio transmitting equipment

A U.S. resident is allowed to operate aircraft, marine, amateur,
citizen band (CB), and Family Radio Service (FRS) radios as well as
cellular and PCS mobile radiotelephones in Canada, without explicit
permission from the Minister of Industry.

If you are not a U.S. resident, you will need permission from Industry
Canada to use this equipment.
------------

http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/E/pub/cp/rc4161/rc4161-e.html

It doesn't say that you need to be a US citizen AND possess a US FCC
amateur radio license...

I really haven't had time to thoroughly research the entirety of CA
law - sorry if that misleads anyone.

dgg

The Tanus entity posted thusly:

>Sorry for the top posting, but I'm going at each one of his questions in
>turn.

It's not top-posting if you intersperse your comments as nature
intended (except for your pre-emptive apology, of course).

>> How cold does it get in the winter, and how hot in the summer?
>> (Global warming not considered...)
>
>Depends on where you are in the country. I live in Ottawa and -30
>C(don't bother with the conversion to F - it's just fucking cold) is
>not uncommon. Vancouver rarely gets snow, and averages above freezing
>for most of the winter. However, Whistler Mountain & Ski Resort is a
>short drive away and they get tons of snow.

I would add that 0 degrees and misty/drizzling in Vancouver feels a
heck of a lot colder than -20 in the prairie provinces.

>> Is English the predominant language of BC?
>
>Yes

In some suburban areas (Burnaby, Surrey, Richmond), that may no longer
be the case.

>> Any other useful information concerning livability would be greatly
>> appreciated.
>
>Welcome to Canada. We speak the same language, we have the same big box
>stores, we have most of the same issues that the US has, but it's
>different here. For one thing, we're a much smaller population, and that
>contributes to scale. You threw their tea in the harbour, and we paid
>the tax on it. Generally, with many exceptions, the US is more concerned
>with individual rights than Canadians.

Make that "The Canadian governments are less concerned with individual
rights." Places like Ontario and eastward seem to go along with lots
of government control and socialism.

> We tend to aim for social solutions. Neither is better;

Spoken like a true-red Ontarian.

Michael Daly said:

>On 22-May-2006, DGG<[email protected]> wrote:
>
>> A U.S. resident is allowed to operate aircraft, marine, amateur,
>> citizen band (CB), and Family Radio Service (FRS) radios as well as
>> cellular and PCS mobile radiotelephones in Canada, without explicit
>> permission from the Minister of Industry.
>
>What that means is: IF you are only visiting and IF you are suitably
>licensed in the US. If you are a US citizen living in Canada or do not have
>a license in the US, you have to get a Canadian license.
>
>The marine license comment is misleading further. If you have a US Marine VHF
>without a license (legal for recreational boaters) you must get a license to
>use it in Canadian waters.
>
>US GMRS radios are not allowed in Canada. Canadian GMRS is limited to
>2 W and no license is required. US radios are 5W and exceed permitted
>power limits.
>
>CB, FRS have no license requirements. Cell phone licenses are buried in
>the contract agreement and fees (signed or implied - you pay regardless).

Remember, I didn't write the paragraph...
Also, See previous reply to Art's message.

Thanks for the concise summary.
It certainly makes far more sense that the site I quoted.
More research is in order...

Bill said:

>I've read all your posts in this thread, and you sound like quite a
>lively character who could make his way anywhere on this Earth. But
>will all due respect, you should be paying more attention to the
>requirements of formal immigration than to the rules governing amateur
>radio. You will have to satisfy Citizenship and Immigration Canada,
>and if you can't muster up enough points, you won't get in. Right
>now, the bar is quite low - 67 points. A few years ago it was (I
>think) 75. If you are between 67 and 75 points you should get an
>application in right away if this is what you want to do, because the
>visa posts are swamped with applications, and the waiting times are
>being measured in years. The pass mark is certain to be raised again.
>Another place you might try for more information - britishexpats.com.
>There are some Canada-specific discussion forums there. Good luck.

Thanks, Bill, for your interest and concern - but I'm not loading up
the U-Haul just yet. <g> Nor am I quite so old and clunky that the
term "lively character", however endearing, need apply. Just to
ponder that I have transmuted from a rebel and rogue scholar to a
lively character... ugh! <g>

An extended visit would be in order, as well as a more detailed
analysis of living conditions, costs, weather, and land availability.
Vancouver has grown considerably since the last time I read, heard, or
viewed photos about/of it. I am trying to avoid very large cities,
and those which promise to become so in the future.

As for amateur radio, it began as an offhand comment that developed a
life of it's own - reflective of the interest in, and apparently the
popularity of, radio with woodworkers. Go figure...

Just fielding a few questions in a generally friendly, familiar forum
before an extended visit to accomplish the aforementioned goals.

According to Yahoo personals, there seem to be a lot of attractive,
like-minded, lonely women in Vancouver - far more so than where I
currently reside. I have not formally calculated citizenship point
requirements or my eligibility, but I might not need to worry too much
about it. <bg>

I have also considered living in Bellingham, WA for a while, to travel
across the border while fielding inquiries into such matters. What I
am sure of, however, is that I absolutely do not want to live where I
presently reside. Too crowded, too polluted, too shallow, and too
corrupt. And yet, for all of this, it remains the most disagreeable
place I have ever had the misfortune of living - other than, perhaps,
Central Florida. Bigger is NOT always better - unless you're a woman.
And of course, when the big war breaks out I want to be as far away
from the target zones as possible - but Australia won't have me. <g>
If Dick Proenneke can take off to the wilds of Alaska and survive, I
can surely survive Vancouver... <g>

While much of this is tongue in cheek, I truly appreciate you concern.

dgg

"DGG" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> >
> >Hah! Try that on Church Street in Toronto and be prepared for the entire
> >street to come out and beat the crap out of you.
>
> LOL - It _was_ a joke...

I know that. I only commented because I'm relatively familiar with Church
Street. I live at the very top of it. Every year when they have the gay
pride day parade, it marshals on the street right below my apartment. The
vet I take my cat to is located on Church Street and the nearest beer store
to where I live is on Church Street.

Bill said:

>On Sun, 21 May 2006 19:55:27 -0400, DGG<[email protected]> wrote:

>>I am considering moving to Vancouver, BC and since there are a number
>>of Canadians who post here, I figure this is as good a place as any to
>>get the REAL story of life in the Great White North. ;-)
>[list snipped]
>
>Did you check the official web sites thoroughly enough to find out if
>you will be able to move to Canada? Under what category can you
>apply? Skilled Worker? Investor? Have you done a self-evaluation to
>make sure you have enough points?

I do a self-evaluation every morning - it's a sad thing to behold. <g>

As for the skills aspect, I've been a mechanic, plumber, electrician,
computer programmer (ASM/C/JAVA), web designer, electronics
technician, digital design, shop manager, pseudo lawyer and general
all around pain in the arse.

And if all else fails, I'll marry a native.

LOL

"DGG" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>
> Besides, a man would have great difficulty emulating the petite women
> I prefer. But, at last resort, there is always the Crocodile Dundee
> method. Grab 'em in the crotch to confirm that, at least, they aren't
> sporting the equipment... ;-)

Hah! Try that on Church Street in Toronto and be prepared for the entire
street to come out and beat the crap out of you.

Michael Daly said:

>
>On 23-May-2006, DGG<[email protected]> wrote:
>
>> there seem to be a lot of attractive,
>> like-minded, lonely women in Vancouver
>
>More like a 60 yr old man in a dress with handcuffs and a little axle grease.

I suspect there were a few of those as well...
Hell, for that matter, there is a crop of those here - along with the
damned ugliest, redneck females I have ever seen.

But I do believe I can tell the difference between a 32 year old
female and a perv in drag...

On 22-May-2006, Doug Payne <[email protected]> wrote:

> I've never seen that few people on a Saturday afternoon

That part of downtown is never busy on a weekend. Don't complain - it
beats lineups!

Mike

On 23-May-2006, DGG<[email protected]> wrote:

> According to Yahoo personals, there seem to be a lot of attractive,
> like-minded, lonely women in Vancouver

More like a 60 yr old man in a dress with handcuffs and a little axle grease.

Mike

On 22-May-2006, DGG<[email protected]> wrote:

> More interested in building my own
> passive-solar cabin with a woodworking shop out back.

Choose your location carefully. That part of BC has interesting weather
patterns and you can find an area that has sun, contrary to the perception
that it always rains in Vancouver

> It is my
> understanding that the US imports much oil from Canada, you guys might
> end up being better off than the masses here.

Every time the oil price rises, Canada nets a benefit. Something like 10% of
US oil comes from Canada.

> Don't want to live in an area where you die if your car breaks down.

Idiots die if their car breaks down in winter. Some people die in their homes in
warm parts of the US if the electricity goes off. Planning counts.

> And back to woodworking, you apparently have far more tool outlets and
> wood suppliers than we do,

All without arbitrary, government-mandated surcharges like Canadian softwood
suffers in the US.

Mike

Michael Daly wrote:

> Choose your location carefully. That part of BC has interesting weather
> patterns and you can find an area that has sun, contrary to the perception
> that it always rains in Vancouver


This is important. Some areas will get alot more rain or sun than
others. Due to prevailing winds and geography.

John

DGG<[email protected]> wrote in
news:[email protected]:

> Art Greenberg said:
>
>>On Mon, 22 May 2006 03:39:44 -0400, DGG wrote:
>>> I was pleasently surprised to read that you do not require a
>>> license to operate amature radio equpiment.
>>
>>Huh? That can't be correct.
>
> That's what I thought as well, but I got that from the Canadian
> Government web site - for whatever that is worth.
> So many details - so little time... <and such bad speeling> :-\
>
> dgg
>
>

You do not need a license for "CB", or "RC" models, but you still most
likely need one for "Ham radio". You can drive and talk on the cell
phone all you like, it's still legal. Whistler is a two hour drive from
Vancouver on the deadly'est road in BC (Maybe western Canada) and while
it gets a ton of snow, Vancouver (at sea level) gets mayby a trace in a
given year, if that. A cold wave is when the temperature drops to 32
degrees F.
House prices in Vancouver are the highest in Canada, and I filled up with
gas on Friday at $1.20 CDN, for 1 liter. We have two Lee Valley outlets,
one Busy-Bee tools, two KMS tools, 1 Summit tools, and of course the
Borg. (needed to add the woodworking component to the post).

On 24-May-2006, DGG<[email protected]> wrote:

> But I do believe I can tell the difference between a 32 year old
> female and a perv in drag...

Optimist :-)

You've never been to Vancouver (or Toronto, or New York...)

Mike

Tanus said:

>DGG wrote:
><sniip>
>>
>> Speaking of which, I have quite a bit of woodworking equipment - I'm
>> hoping that the voltages and frequencies are the same as the US, and
>> that you don't have restrictions on bringing your own equipment into
>> Canada. Dado's are legal, etc. Is there a fee involved with bringing
>> your own personal possessions and equipment across the border?
>>
>>> Tanus
>>
>> Greatly appreciated!
>>
>> dgg
>>
>
>You didn't say whether you were professional or a hobbyist. I'll assume
>you don't make your living from woodworking

Hobbyist - mostly. And a little bartering.

>Voltages and frequencies are identical. If it works in the US, it'll
>work here.

Cool. Thought so, but it pays to be sure.
My next question is, Will my Audio/Visual gear work there as well?
Is NTSC the broadcast standard? AM/FM radio the same?
And has Canada embraced the ATC HD digital TV crap yet?

>On bringing your stuff over, if you're moving here, it shouldn't be a
>problem since it's your personal belongings and you're not bringing the
>stuff into the country for resale. If you have a truckload of equipment,
>Canada Customs will likely question you about it, but I'd contact them
>beforehand and ask what, if anything, you have to do to prove that.

A fair truckload. I will, of course, check first.

>They don't have a lot of information on immigrants, but you can start
>here: http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/menu-e.html
>
>This site may tell you how to bring your equipment in:
>http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/index.html

Thanks again!
So many stupid questions...

dgg

Upscale said:

>"Eddie Munster" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>>
>> DGG wrote:
>> > And if all else fails, I'll marry a native.
>>
>> With a fun attitude like that you should have a ball!!
>
>Just as long as he doesn't run into Jimmy at the post office. Should that
>happen, I suspect he'll be moving back to the good ole' USA mighty quick. ~
>to maintain his sanity and all that good stuff.
>
>:)

Jimmy who?

On 25-May-2006, "Upscale" <[email protected]> wrote:

> Hah! Try that on Church Street in Toronto and be prepared for the entire
> street to come out and beat the crap out of you.

Toronto the weird - the churches are on Queen street and the queens are on
Church street.

Mike

Art Greenberg said:

>On Mon, 22 May 2006 03:39:44 -0400, DGG wrote:
>> I was pleasently surprised to read that you do not require a license to
>> operate amature radio equpiment.
>
>Huh? That can't be correct.

That's what I thought as well, but I got that from the Canadian
Government web site - for whatever that is worth.
So many details - so little time... <and such bad speeling> :-\

dgg

Michael Daly said:

>On 24-May-2006, DGG<[email protected]> wrote:
>
>> But I do believe I can tell the difference between a 32 year old
>> female and a perv in drag...
>
>Optimist :-)
>
>You've never been to Vancouver (or Toronto, or New York...)

Been to SF, LA, NY, the border towns of TX/Mexico and grew up in
Atlanta. I've seen Rupaul perform at Weekends, he/she/it being one of
the more famous mid-town drag queens from Atlanta. The younger sister
was a bartender downtown for many years. There are a lot of trans
types here, and have been since I was a kid.

Besides, a man would have great difficulty emulating the petite women
I prefer. But, at last resort, there is always the Crocodile Dundee
method. Grab 'em in the crotch to confirm that, at least, they aren't
sporting the equipment... ;-)

Had an idiot friend who, many years ago, picked up a hooker downtown.
Turned out to be a drag queen - tried to cut off what little manhood
he possessed with a razor blade. Not quite sure how he escaped
intact, but in retrospect, it is unfortunate that he did.
Yea, dumb old Rick sure turned out to be one sorry-ass tool.

And since this is _well_ off topic, I'll stop now... :-)

Eddie Munster said:

>DGG wrote:
>> And if all else fails, I'll marry a native.
>
>
>With a fun attitude like that you should have a ball!!

Was that double entendre intentional? <g>

Michael Daly said:

>On 22-May-2006, DGG<[email protected]> wrote:
>
>> More interested in building my own
>> passive-solar cabin with a woodworking shop out back.
>
>Choose your location carefully. That part of BC has interesting weather
>patterns and you can find an area that has sun, contrary to the perception
>that it always rains in Vancouver

Yes, I noticed the vastly differing terrain. With the mountains and
ocean and winds and variety of temperature/climate zones, it's bound
to be interesting... Of course, there is the old (reputedly Chinese)
series of curses to consider:

1- May you live in interesting times.
2 - May you come to the attention of those in authority.
3 - May you find what you are looking for.

If that is the case, I am truly doomed. <g>

>Every time the oil price rises, Canada nets a benefit. Something like 10% of
>US oil comes from Canada.

Was thinking it was more than that, but exporting beats importing.

>> Don't want to live in an area where you die if your car breaks down.
>
>Idiots die if their car breaks down in winter. Some people die in their homes in
>warm parts of the US if the electricity goes off. Planning counts.

As with all things in life. It was intended mostly as humor. :-\
But it really is a serious issue - being trapped in a snow drift till
spring could be hazardous to your health. And those evil mooses...

>> And back to woodworking, you apparently have far more tool outlets and
>> wood suppliers than we do,
>
>All without arbitrary, government-mandated surcharges like Canadian softwood
>suffers in the US.

Uh, oh - first it was East vs. West, now it's Canadian SPF wars.
I think I read something about that a while ago - Some mention was
made of a Canadian invasion to promote regime change. <g>


Thanks

On 22/05/2006 5:10 PM, Oleg Lego wrote:

> I see someone else has pointed out that there are two Lee Valley Tool
> outlets there. I only know of the one in South Vancouver. Go early,
> unless you want to have to buy low numbers from the scalpers. :-)

Speaking of which, I finally made it to the new downtown Tronna store on
Saturday and was astounded to see that aside from me, there were only 2
or 3 other customers in the store. I've seen a fair number of them,
including Vancouver, London, other Tronna, and the various incarnations
in Ottawa, and I've never seen that few people on a Saturday afternoon.
Buying low numbers from scalpers is the norm. Kinda sad, I sure hope it
picks up a bit.

On 22/05/2006 8:45 PM, Michael Daly wrote:
> On 22-May-2006, Doug Payne <[email protected]> wrote:
>
>> I've never seen that few people on a Saturday afternoon
>
> That part of downtown is never busy on a weekend.

2 blocks east sure is.

> Don't complain - it beats lineups!

:-) Yeah, too bad I was just there to have a look around. Actually came
out empty-handed, which is unusual!

Michael Daly said:

>
>On 22-May-2006, Doug Payne <[email protected]> wrote:
>
>> I've never seen that few people on a Saturday afternoon
>
>That part of downtown is never busy on a weekend. Don't complain - it
>beats lineups!

Hear, hear!

Tanus said:

>Sorry for the top posting, but I'm going at each one of his questions in
>turn.

Thanks for the quick response!

>DGG wrote:

>> My questions are:
>>
>> What are the average income tax rates, and what other taxes are there
>> to contend with?
>
>Tax rates are graduated, but "average" about 40%, I think. That's not
>the whole story in Canada. In some ways, we're taxed more heavily than
>the US. For instance, mortgage interest is not deductible. As well,
>there is our equivalent of a Value Added Tax, called the Goods & Service
>Tax, or GST. It is 7% of all goods and services (some exemptions, not
>sure what they are) and is paid at the til or when invoiced for a good
>or service.

I'm assuming this is the equivalent of the US State's sales tax -
which can be anywhere from 5 to 8% - so that's in line...
The loss of mortgage deduction is unfortunate, however.

>Summer time temps are comparable with Seattle.

Some of which is considered zone 7-8 by the USDA.

>> Which side of the road do you guys drive on? lol
>
>Depends on how sober we are,but I try to stick to the right side. I've
>noticed most other sober drivers do the same.

LMAO. Here in the big city, on any given Friday/Saturday night, you
might come to the conclusion that lanes are optional. Heck, if what I
witnessed last night was any example, ROADs are apparently optional.

We don't, however, have mooses. ;-)
I understand that May in Ontario is a really exciting time...

>> Is your government as corrupt as that of the usa's?
>
>Corrupter. We just do it in a subtle,polite way and no one notices.
>Actually most of the world doesn't really care either, which we find
>agreeable.

I hear ya... But the fact that no one else in the world cares, in
today's political climate, is a BIG plus.

>> Any other useful information concerning livability would be greatly
>> appreciated.
>
>Welcome to Canada. We speak the same language, we have the same big box
>stores, we have most of the same issues that the US has, but it's
>different here. For one thing, we're a much smaller population, and that
>contributes to scale. You threw their tea in the harbour, and we paid
>the tax on it. Generally, with many exceptions, the US is more concerned
>with individual rights than Canadians. We tend to aim for social
>solutions. Neither is better; each has its own advantages but the
>difference exists.

That tea business was a looong time ago. These days, they would just
bribe some douche bag politico type and share in the profits.

And don't be too sure about the US being concerned with any
individual's rights except for the well-heeled. Again, that was a
looong time ago. The US Constitution is being gutted, and corrupt
local political types are not interested in anything but their own
miserable, overpaid careers.

>The above paragraph could go on for ages. Since it's woodworking, I'll
>leave it at that, and wish you a wonderful time in our country once
>you've made the adjustment.

Speaking of which, I have quite a bit of woodworking equipment - I'm
hoping that the voltages and frequencies are the same as the US, and
that you don't have restrictions on bringing your own equipment into
Canada. Dado's are legal, etc. Is there a fee involved with bringing
your own personal possessions and equipment across the border?

>Tanus

Greatly appreciated!

dgg

On 22-May-2006, DGG<[email protected]> wrote:

> Ouch - a 54% total tax rate.

His original estimate of 40% is overstated a lot. If you're paying that much, you need
an accountant or your head examined. It's more like 27%-33% for most people.
There are such things as deductions, after all. Don't forget that with those tax rates,
you don't need your own personal health insurance, though you might want supplemental
for things like dentistry, private rooms, prescription drug coverage etc.

In addition, while Vancouver is a pricey place to live compared to many other cities,
it's one of the most liveable cities in the world. Various organizations that rate cities
for quality of life put Vancouver at or very near the top - well ahead of almost all US
cities. You get what you pay for.

Oh, yes - bring a hardhat - they're overdue for an earthquake. :-)

Mike
Who has never lived in Vancouver.

In article <[email protected]>,
DGG<[email protected]> wrote:

> DL said:
>
> >On Sun, 21 May 2006 22:42:24 -0400, DGG<[email protected]> wrote:
> >
> >>I'm assuming this is the equivalent of the US State's sales tax -
> >>which can be anywhere from 5 to 8% - so that's in line...
> >>The loss of mortgage deduction is unfortunate, however.
> >
> >That's only the half ot it. In provinces other than Alberta you ALSO
> >pay a 7% local sales tax in addition to the GST. So sales tax is
> >actually 14%.
>
> Ouch - a 54% total tax rate.
> There had better be some mighty fine women in BC. ;-)
> I'd like to have a family before my sperm turns to dust.. :-\
>
A few years ago a friend had a job offer to move to Vancouver, even
after the exchange rate was figured in the pay was high. After he did
the "Cost of living", the take home was smaller.

We (at work) have a facility up on the Island (Vancouver Island), we
have some trouble staffing it due to the cost-of-living.

Housing, is well HIGH across much of southern BC.

Also, the "down town" area of Vancouver has a high petty crime rate,
by any-ones standards.

--
--------------------------------------------------------
Personal e-mail is the n7bsn but at amsat.org
This posting address is a spam-trap and seldom read
RV and Camping FAQ can be found at
http://www.ralphandellen.us/rv

Michael Daly said:

>
>On 25-May-2006, "Upscale" <[email protected]> wrote:
>
>> Hah! Try that on Church Street in Toronto and be prepared for the entire
>> street to come out and beat the crap out of you.
>
>Toronto the weird - the churches are on Queen street and the queens are on
>Church street.

Funny how that often works out...
Never been there, perhaps in the future - lots of places I'd like to
see, but too little life and money to do so. Ah, well...

Upscale said:

>"DGG" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>>
>> Besides, a man would have great difficulty emulating the petite women
>> I prefer. But, at last resort, there is always the Crocodile Dundee
>> method. Grab 'em in the crotch to confirm that, at least, they aren't
>> sporting the equipment... ;-)
>
>Hah! Try that on Church Street in Toronto and be prepared for the entire
>street to come out and beat the crap out of you.

LOL - It _was_ a joke...

DGG wrote:
> And if all else fails, I'll marry a native.



With a fun attitude like that you should have a ball!!

The DGG entity posted thusly:

>Oleg Lego said:
>
>It's not the cold, it's the humidity... ;-)

Sure is!

>>In some suburban areas (Burnaby, Surrey, Richmond), that may no longer
>>be the case.
>
>Meaning that Asian languages have become dominant?
>I seem to recall that Quebec passed a "predominately French" sign law
>years ago, but it's _way_ to cold there for my degenerating bones.

I don't know if they are actually dominant now, but the areas I
mentioned have a lot of Asians. Burnaby and Richmond have many Chinese
immigrants, and Surrey and South Vancouver have a lot of East Indians.
You'll not need to learn Cantonese or Hindi, but the subculture is
rich in Asiatic languages, shops, restaurants, etc.

>>Make that "The Canadian governments are less concerned with individual
>>rights." Places like Ontario and eastward seem to go along with lots
>>of government control and socialism.
>
>Speaking of socialism, how do you handle automobile insurance?
>Is it Mandatory?

Yes. You can buy additional coverage beyond the mandatory basic stuff
from ICBC (Insurance Corporation of BC), or through a private company,
but the basic is all ICBC.

>Will I be penalized for 200,000 other idiots talking on cell-phones,
>even though I've not had an accident in 20 years and a million miles?
>
>Is it even legal to drive and talk on the phone?
>Or (_please_ say it's so) do you not have cell services?

Still legal, I'm afraid.

>I was pleasently surprised to read that you do not require a license
>to operate amature radio equpiment.

Not correct.

>>> We tend to aim for social solutions. Neither is better;
>>
>>Spoken like a true-red Ontarian.
>
>Uh, oh - Province wars... <ducking>

Dave Broadfoot said it best.

Yer east hates yer west, and yer west hates yer east, and the only
thing holding the country together is that everyone hates yer Tronna.*

*"Tronna" - Toronto.

I see someone else has pointed out that there are two Lee Valley Tool
outlets there. I only know of the one in South Vancouver. Go early,
unless you want to have to buy low numbers from the scalpers. :-)

On Sun, 21 May 2006 22:42:24 -0400, DGG<[email protected]> wrote:

>I'm assuming this is the equivalent of the US State's sales tax -
>which can be anywhere from 5 to 8% - so that's in line...
>The loss of mortgage deduction is unfortunate, however.

That's only the half ot it. In provinces other than Alberta you ALSO
pay a 7% local sales tax in addition to the GST. So sales tax is
actually 14%.

Oleg Lego said:

>The Tanus entity posted thusly:

>>Depends on where you are in the country. I live in Ottawa and -30
>>C(don't bother with the conversion to F - it's just fucking cold) is
>>not uncommon. Vancouver rarely gets snow, and averages above freezing
>>for most of the winter. However, Whistler Mountain & Ski Resort is a
>>short drive away and they get tons of snow.
>
>I would add that 0 degrees and misty/drizzling in Vancouver feels a
>heck of a lot colder than -20 in the prairie provinces.

It's not the cold, it's the humidity... ;-)

>>> Is English the predominant language of BC?
>>
>>Yes
>
>In some suburban areas (Burnaby, Surrey, Richmond), that may no longer
>be the case.

Meaning that Asian languages have become dominant?
I seem to recall that Quebec passed a "predominately French" sign law
years ago, but it's _way_ to cold there for my degenerating bones.

>Make that "The Canadian governments are less concerned with individual
>rights." Places like Ontario and eastward seem to go along with lots
>of government control and socialism.

Speaking of socialism, how do you handle automobile insurance?
Is it Mandatory?

Will I be penalized for 200,000 other idiots talking on cell-phones,
even though I've not had an accident in 20 years and a million miles?

Is it even legal to drive and talk on the phone?
Or (_please_ say it's so) do you not have cell services?

I was pleasently surprised to read that you do not require a license
to operate amature radio equpiment.

>> We tend to aim for social solutions. Neither is better;
>
>Spoken like a true-red Ontarian.

Uh, oh - Province wars... <ducking>

Thanks again, guys.
I realize this isn't quite the appropriate forum for this, but I've
gleaned more useful info here in a few minutes than anywhere else.

dgg

On 22-May-2006, DGG<[email protected]> wrote:

> A U.S. resident is allowed to operate aircraft, marine, amateur,
> citizen band (CB), and Family Radio Service (FRS) radios as well as
> cellular and PCS mobile radiotelephones in Canada, without explicit
> permission from the Minister of Industry.

What that means is: IF you are only visiting and IF you are suitably
licensed in the US. If you are a US citizen living in Canada or do not have
a license in the US, you have to get a Canadian license.

The marine license comment is misleading further. If you have a US Marine VHF
without a license (legal for recreational boaters) you must get a license to
use it in Canadian waters.

US GMRS radios are not allowed in Canada. Canadian GMRS is limited to
2 W and no license is required. US radios are 5W and exceed permitted
power limits.

CB, FRS have no license requirements. Cell phone licenses are buried in
the contract agreement and fees (signed or implied - you pay regardless).

Mike