It was an exciting event on Sunday May 15th when “The House of Wives” by Simon Choa-Johnston launched in South Surrey. And just as exciting for Simon, I’m sure, was the fact that the book made the Globe and Mail best-seller list the day before!

The picture at left doesn’t really do Simon Johnston justice, but it does show crucial parts of authorship: signing a book, and a happy customer, who has his wallet out.

The story prominently features three of Simon’s ancestors: a rich Hong Kong merchant, and both his (simultaneous) wives. Early reviews point to this being a great read. I’m looking forward to it.

(photo thanks to Sheila Johnston)

On April 15th I had the pleasure of presenting “Our Navy”, a powerpoint presentation made by the Naval Association of Canada as part of its outreach program. The purpose of the presentation is to inform our fellow Canadians about the role and structure of the Royal Canadian Navy.

My hosts were the Royal Society of St. George, and the Royal Commonwealth Society. The setting was perfect–the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club overlooking English Bay. A spirited discussion and questions followed.

RVYC was a fitting location, as the NOA of BC was founded in 1919 by RN veterans who had been members of the club; and the NOABC is one of the branches of today’s Naval Association of Canada.

Australia has announced it has contracted with a French company to build 12 diesel-electric submarines. The contract is Australia’s largest ever defence agreement. Other frontrunners to build the Aussie boats were Germany and Japan.

Japan may have lost out because Australia’s largest trading partner is China, and the Chinese currently have tense relations with Japan.

Much of the actual construction will take place in Australia. An interesting model for the Canadian Defence Policy Review to look at.

Details are available in this article.