What is a Canadian??

I think that we ought to consider the notion that it is our ideas and values that bind us, as Canadians, together.
The problem with a community uniform, or required religion, is that it precludes change based on a prejudice of - or for - historical continuity. But, ideas, or values, based on human notions of justice, or value, or dignity, are more flexible and promote the very foundations and reasons for coming together as a nation in the first place (just look at the American and Canadian Constitutions as examples!): To do things collectively that we, as individuals, could never achieve alone. It is here, deep in the purposes for coming together as a community, that we should look for the "isms" of our national identity - not to constraining gimmicks or superficial badges of membership.

So, the next time you are asked "what is a Canadian" you can say that, far better than an itchy national costume or salty dish, we have a strong sense of community built on ideas of interdependence, independence, justice, equality, and dignity - and that interestingly, these are the same reasons for Man leaving the "state of nature" and entering into civil society! And, unlike so many other places on earth, there is, for example, no ethnic or religious requirement.
In this sense, Canada is a modern nation, built not on historical prejudices but on the triumph of reason and rationality; a people, of diverse makeup, driven by a common purpose that fosters basic human conceptions of the good, the right, and the just.

Indeed, being Canadian is not, cannot, and should not be so narrowly encapsulated in any costume or uniform – this is not “dress up” or “for pretend”. Being Canadian it is not something you wear on your sleeve or pin on your shirt – its complexity is not encapsulated in a slogan, sport or food; it’s not defined by the color of your skin – and it is not something so easily mimicked or feigned. Rather, it is something one feels and quietly practices as a right and obligation of membership. A way of life built on value and purpose - shared and valued by our fellow Canadians, and fellow human beings around the world. It is our ideas that bind us together, as one: The true north strong and free.

More Corporate Tax Cuts - a Good Idea?

With recent discussion surrounding the issue of corporate tax cuts, I thought it best to post this link to a recent Globe and Mail article. It provides a basis for some alternative thinking on the issue.

(If the link, above, does not work, the article can be seen by going to the below-mentioned address)
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/economy/economy-lab/the-economists/five-reasons-to-say-no-to-more-corporate-tax-cuts/article1886449/

Bick’s Closure shows Councillors must have business Experience

News of Bick's Pickles' impending closure is unfortunate for everyone in Haldimand. For the employees, families and farmers supplying Bick’s, it’s nothing short of tragedy. This closure should serve as a wake-up call for Haldimand. It highlights the need to attract and retain businesses in our community. Bick’s closure is a symptom of a larger problem facing Haldimand.

It is clear – now more than ever - that every effort must be made to ensure businesses stay in Haldimand. There is another community rejoicing because Bick's is moving to their community, providing jobs and contributing to their tax base.

The obvious conclusion of these recent events is that our new Council must be proactive, and have the business skills and experience to compete with other communities. We need councillors who know how to support existing business and attract new ones.

The challenges we face as a community are many: Family farms are under threat, jobs are moving elsewhere and youth are moving away to find new opportunity. But, together we can succeed and prosper. We have a well-trained work force, good transportation network, and solid infrastructure. Our community can prosper with well-paying jobs for today’s work force and our children. We can do this and still protect what is important to us: Our way of life and the natural beauty of this area.

On October 25, residents from across this county will make an important choice when they elect their new council. If we are to take anything from the loss of 150 full-time jobs at Bick’s, it is this: Councillors elected on October 25 must have the skills to attract and keep jobs here.

If you believe, as I do, that this is the change we need elect me to council for Ward 2. I am committed to work as part of your council’s team.

To contact Fred, go to http://www.electmorison.ca/ or call 905-772-1060 or email morison@electmorison.ca

Fred Morison, of Cayuga, is a Business person and active member of the community. Fred is running as Candidate for Haldimand, Ward 2.

Compelling others to live as you see fit

Of all the tyrannies a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of its victims may be the most oppressive.
The robber baron's cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated; but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end, for they do so with the approval of their own conscience.
CS Lewis