Pierre Berton R.I.P.

Author and broadcasterPierre Berton's death on November 30 pushed U.S. President George W. Bush's visit to Ottawa off the lead of many Canadian television newscasts. The irascible Berton wrote 50 books, won three Governor-General's Awards, and still found time to donate his name and his own money to countless causes. Last year, Berton agreed to testify as a witness for the Straight in its battle with provincial tax officials if the case ever went to trial.