Canada Canada

guest · Apr 30, 2000

I will be going deep into Canada for the first time. I would like to know what the dot in Canada is like and how big a truck needs to be to stop at a scale.I have a cube truck with 12,000 gvw. I am going to St. Johns, Novascotia, any helpful hints would be appreciated.

Jim · Apr 30, 2000

Mustang: First things first. There is no such place as St John, Nova Scotia. Of course, there are St John, New Brunswick, or St Johns, Newfoundland. As for scales, try this unique approach. Stop at the first scale you see that is open and ASK. You will be guaranteed to get the right answer, and they will even give you a map of the province you are in. We do have maps you know.

I am constantly amazed at the number of so called profesional drivers who charge blindly around the continent with out a map of any kind, then complain bitterly that they went the wrong way. A real professional, like a airline pilot, would never even consider starting a trip, without having, and reading, the appropriate chart. How about you? Do you have any idea where you are going? Have you written down the route, including the exit numbers you need? Have you checked to see if that river crossing is a bridge, or a ferry. Are there 24 hour customs brokers at that International crossing? Or do they close at 9 p.m.? Do you have the correct address, and a contact name and phone number, at your delivery loction. Did you remember to exchange your US dollars for Canadian currency at the border? Just a few things for you to think about, Mustang.. Jim Bunting..

EH · May 4, 2000

Jim; The guy was asking for help and info, not a slightly quarellsome response.

He said up front that he did not know his way around and he did not suggest that you guys lived in the dark ages without maps or any of the other amenities.

Why do I suddenly see or hear so many Canadians acting so defensively? I thought we were neighbors.

How about a direct answer to his question. It seems that he did not get anything except "stop at the first scales" which is probably good advice, but could have been given without the attitude. ??????? Yours; Ed

EH · May 4, 2000

[font size="1" color="#FF0000"]LAST EDITED ON May-04-00 AT 09:55AM (GMT)[/font][p]Jim; A little more from my point of view.
Don't forget, you live in a foreign country with different, laws, customs, money, rules & regs. Most Americans have never been out of the USA and some never out of their home state until they started OTR trucking or Expediting. It is somewhat daunting to us to be at the mercy of a foreign government and dealing with folks who are called by a different name and live and work with Laws, etc that we are not familar with.
Were you really comfortable when you loaded the first time for delivery to the states? Did you know all about it? I doubt it. Many of the stories passed around are embellished somewhat and pretty soon will give any newbee pause. Ed

Jim · May 8, 2000

EH ; I'm not going to apologise for my reply. I said it the way I meant it! If you have such a mis-trust of my country, and our officials, stay home. This says a lot more about American paranoia, than it does about Canadian laws, or hospitality.

As for being neighbours, yes we are, but we have a very carefully balanced relationship with the USA. We remember all the times that your country has attempted to invade ours. In case you weren't at school the day that this was taught, the USA has attempted to invade Canada on 3 different occassions, 1812, 1837, and 1869. What a nice way to treat your neighbours. I won't even mention all the other countries in this hemisphere that have had the dubious pleasure of a visit from the USA's military forces, like Nicaruagua, Honduras, Mexico,Cuba, Costa Rica, Dominican republic, Panama. All of the nations I just mentioned have been invaded, and controlled by the USA at some time in this past century. What friends you are!

You did get some things right. Less than 10 percent of the American population has ever had a passport. They don't venture outside their own borders much. Could that have anything to do with the actions of your government, and it's overseas policies. I suggest to you that your country could learn a few things from us here in Canada. At least our embassies are not surrounded by military personell in full combat gear, armed with automatic weapons, because the population of that country, wherever it is is trying to storm the walls. By way of comparison, Canadian embassies and consulates, around the world, do not have armed guards, or barbed wire barriers, because we don't make a habit of helping to overthrow the local government. Like you tried to do in Cuba, Iran, Algeria, and Afghanistan.

We, as Canadians, live next to a very powerful, and perfidious nation. One which has little regard for other countries, unless it is to the advantage of the USA. This makes us very wary, and, I think, rightly so. If you think I have over stated my case, please respond, but, bring facts to this discussion, not blind recitations of the Hollywood version of American history. By the way, why is it OK for an American to be tremendously proud of his country, "right or wrong", but when a Canadian says the same things about his country, he "has an attitude"? Could it be you are too used to us being quiet, polite, and meek? Well, get used to a change, we are not taking a back seat to any country any longer.

You give us the respect that you expect from us, and we will get along just fine. But, if you think we are going to take your BS and just roll over, then you are wrong.

The above remarks are my own. I am speaking as a Canadian, and not as a member of the staff of Expeditersonline. Please do not complain to the editorial staff, as this is my personal opinion. Jim Bunting...

doe.mouse · May 8, 2000

Yea, you need to lighten up. As for the US invadeing your country, I wasn't around then. I had nothing to do with it. You and I are truck drivers. We just happen to live in a different country. I treat all drivers with respect, as a matter of fact I treat all people with respect, no matter where you are from. I wouldn't think of asking you to apologize for anything you said because That is what you beleive and feel. The fellow driver was only asking a question. He didn't ask for a history lesson. All you need to do is answer the question and move on, or not respond at all. The only dumb questions are the ones we don't ask. Lighten up and enjoy life. We are only here for a short time and we should try and enjoy it. Please have a nice day.

Beaker · May 8, 2000

Jim, you do need to lighten up. It seems as though the glasses you see through are creating a very critical point of view and you come across as being condesending. You jumped to conclusions one time with me about a month ago and now with this newbie.

Jim · May 8, 2000

Just as I expected, none of you got the message I was trying to deliver. It is not a case of me having to lighten up, but rather the fact that you Americans are so damm sure of yourselves, that you can't see, or hear the truth.

None of you responded with facts, just platitudes about take it easy. But.... when I put it to you about the atrocious record of the USA as regards it's military adventures in the western hemisphere, none of you have anything to say. Is that because you really don't know about this, or is it because you haven't got the guts to admit your nation's fiascos?

I will say it again, loud and clear. If you, as Americans, were constantly subjected to the stupid comments, and down right insults that we Canadians get on a daily basis from Americans, you would be pissed off too! Respect goes both ways across the border, and should start with some basic knowledge on your part. History IS important, otherwise why do you celebrate the 4th of July? That is ancient stuff, isn't it? But god forbid that you not remember 1776, right?

So when I mention some Canadian history, such as the invasions, I'm suppossed to forget it, cause it's not important to you? Well, I guess the only thing that this proves is what I said in the first place. What matters is what is important to the USA, the rest of the world be dammed.

As for my eyesight, I don't need or wear glasses, as anyone who has met me will tell you. But I can still see well enough to know a thing or two, and I know this. There are a few countries I would rather have as next-door-neighbours. Ones that don't try to be the world's bully, and turn on their allies, when the chips are down.

Here is a challenge to all of you. Name one decade of the entire past century, from 1900 to 2000 in which the USA was not involved in a military invasion of some small country, somewhere. Bet you can't, and that is my entire point, you don't even know your own history, so why would you know much about the country next door? Jim Bunting...

cj · May 8, 2000

Jim-I always liked your input when you've given it. However, at this moment in time, I have lost respect for you. :-( I see your point of view...but not ALL Americans have negative comments about "Our Friends To The North". If you will note my past postings you will see my comments about the beauty of Canada and the friendly people there. Don't judge everyone by a few comments made in the past. Yes the US does get involved in other country's business...many times because of the safety of their people...many times for economic reasons. I don't always agree with the principals but I personally do not know what goes on behind closed doors so must let those "in the know" decide on my behalf. I still believe there are few countries on this Earth where I can enjoy my freedoms and speak my mind without fear of retribution, so please don't be NEGATIVE about my beautiful country. As for attempts at invading Canada...this hasn't happened in my lifetime so I trust we can live in PEACE with each other. I hope you are just having a bad day and will look at your comments before you say anything more about "Your Friends To The South". I will forgive your negativity if you will forgive our attempted invasion.

(Please, can't we all just be friends?)

mustang · May 8, 2000

all the guy was asking for was a few helpful hints, not a history lesson. i like this web site because i get productive suggestions and information that relates to EXPEDITING. i think that was the original intention. lets keep it that way. have a safe trip.

Wild Bill · May 8, 2000

Jim,

Have you been watching that Molson commerical again??...lol ;-)

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guest · May 9, 2000

I went to St. Johns, Newfoundland.It was an incredible trip, I seen some of the most beautiful scenery possible. If any of you ever go that deep into Canada, Ihave some helpful hints. Ofcouse have a map, I do not leave St.Louis without one of them. Second stop soon after you cross the border and and exchange american $ for Canadian. Third buy fuel when your down to a 1/4 of a tank, because you can go quite a while without seeing a stop.Fourth bring a camera, because you are going to see some of the most beautiful, clean, scenery ever. Finally be prepared to meet some of the nicest people ever, and finally realize that the Canadian DOT is about as laid back as it gets, and you do not have to stop in a cube van with 12,000 lb plates.

freespiritmom · May 12, 2000

Hi ya'll,just returned from CANADA,the people are wonderful,especially the French.Went into Quebec and returned through Ontario. The visit was excellent however,prices on useable commodities were rather expensive,especially fuel-----I guess socialism has aprice tag that has to be met.By the way I hardly consider someone who crosses the ambassordor bridge on a weekly bases to be a world traveller.If you are a good boy jim we AMERICAN'S just mite vote CANADA into the union.Ohyes,Canada is our closest partner in world affairs,bussiness and war.You (Canada) were in Vietnam with us and helped develop the atomic bomb during wold war two. Don't you domenate the french provendence of Quebec-----ah,you aren't so clean after all in the world area of politics.We intent on arranging the states Alaska,Alabama,Canada,etc... Ya'll better start learning to sing DIXIE and a rebel flag will even look good on the front your truck---bye ya'll.

EH · May 12, 2000

Hello Jim; I did not intend to step on your sensitivities. I lived on the border until a few years ago and generally found the folks on both sides of it to be just plain old folks without any axes to grind, unlike some I just met on this forum. If you dislike the USA and its people so much, may I be the first to invite you to stay home and never dirty you feet nor your pocketbook with anything American again. I will save my interest in Canada for those who understand the difference between the actions of government and the people of any country. If you prefer some other Nation for a neighbor, I understand that Canada has few if any travel restriictions. Hit the road Jack. We won't miss anyone with that huge chip on his shoulder. Ed

Rob A · May 14, 2000

As a fellow Canadian I am proud of Jim's original reply to the first question. You Americans can't begin to understand how ignorant most of you are to and about Canada and how irritating it is to Canadians.
Jim's irritation seemed to be more about the St.John Nova Scotia question. This exisits the same as Cincinnati Iowa...it doesn't !!!
The other posters to this topic take great umbrage on Jim's history lesson...that the United States has always looked on Canada as a colony.Many of you are quick to tell of visiting Canada and finding us "friendly" as if you expected a more exotic destination. Yes fuel and other things are more expensive here, a situation that has to do more with a market one-tenth the size of that south of the border and yes we pay higher taxes here.
We can also visit a doctor if we are ill or go to the hospital. Last year someone here was complaining of back pain and looking for advise from particpants here BECAUSE HE DIDN'T HAVE MEDICAL INSURANCE and couldn't afford to see a doctor. If that is socialism I'll pay the extra taxes !!
We in Canada admire the United States and are happy to be your neighbours. We wish that you would show us as much respect and take time to learn a little about us, your closest friends and neighbours.

P.S. Leave your guns and weapons at home

Jim · May 15, 2000

What a load of crap!! It's called a Province, you ninny, not a Providence. And since when did Quebec complain of being "dominated" by the rest of Canada? They get the lion's share of federal aid, and have been a devisive force in Canada since confederation. They will never leave, they have it too good as it is.

Where did you get the idea that Canada would have any interest in a union with the USA? That is the last thing you will ever see. Unless of course, we could convince you to adopt our legal system, and parliamentary government, and of course, the new country would be called Canada. right?

Don't like that idea? Well now you know how we would feel about your suggestion. It won't happen.
By the way, my passport is well used, and not for travel to the USA. Jim Bunting...

Jim · May 15, 2000

Rob A: Thanks for your eloquent support, and the fact that you spelled everything correctly. I guess EH pretty well summed it up. We poor subservient Canucks should be satisfied with the fact that good ole Uncle Sam has not yet come over the line and whupped our sorry butts, for the crime of being proud of our own country. Who knows, maybe we will see the error of our ways, and break into a splendid rendition of "I'm a Yankee doddle Dandy" while dancing furiously on the head of a pin! But what would we tell our children, when they asked the inevitable question, "What did you do in the war WITH the states, Daddy?

Why son, I was part of the guerilla army that kept the US customs service pinned down at the bridge, so that our commandos could attack, and destroy the dreaded Broker Brigade, and claim a huge victory, if only untill the computers came back on!! Oh, the glory, the bravery, and the BS, were all overwhelming. Yes, my son, we sure showed them "Mericans a thing or two". Unfortunately, they had superior firepower, and we were forced to retire back thru the smoking ruins of the duty free store, stopping only long enough to stock up on the cheap perfume, beer, and smokes.

I'll always remember that sight, as we carried our wounded back across the bridge, as the sound of voices at the Us Customs counter echoed in our ears. "You can go now" What a fitting end to a calamatous , but glorious day in Canada/USA relations.
Hope you all understand that this was intended as satire, a parody, a small exercise in humour.

With your blessings, I will now return to my cave, and await your reviews of my work. Jim Bunting..PS, thanks again RobA.

Wild Bill · May 15, 2000

Here ya go Jim, I think it says it all.

I am Canadian!

Hey,
I am not a lumber jack or a fur trader,
and I don't live in an igloo or eat blubber or own a dog sled,
and I don't know Jimmy, Sally or Suzie from Canada although I am certain they're really really nice, uh
I have a Prime Minster not a president.
I speak English and French, not American, and I pronounce it about, not a boot.
I can proudly sew my countries flag on my back pack,
I believe in peace keeping not policing, diversity not assimilation,
and that the beaver is a truly proud and noble animal.
A toque is a hat, a chesterfield is a couch.
And it is pronounced zed, not zee, zed.
Canada is the second largest landmass,
the first nation of hockey,
and the best part of North America, my name is Joe, and I am Canadian.
Thank You.

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Troadgirl · May 15, 2000

that guy with inferiority complex in Canada...

Hmm Jim and WildBill, lets see... Canada, that socialist country to the north. Home of the near-do-wells, gun control nazis ( they have begun taking away one of your sacred rights). The land where, granted, it is beautiful but so was Russia if you discounted the red-kneck communists. The place where the farmers of the western provinces
beg to become U.S. citizens so their crops don't go dormant in the fields since no markets exist for their abundance of some of the finest grain, wheat-products and cash crops. Yes, the people on balance are a fine lot like the many of the world (even the hard core Quebeqers that have a hard time being polite in the face of an Albertan that only speaks english or an American of the same). The place where the universities and high schools are some of the best in the world, but also teach that you should be watching your neighbors and turn them in if you suspect something. Hmmm, no thanks to your country on that basis, take your politics and do like the Nunavut people did, and say "no thanks". Yes we have factions that would like to head in a more controlled direction here in the U.S. But we have a great check and balance. We vote. sooner or later if the ones in charge become real bums' and not just playboy or playgirls, we vote'em out.
In Canada you get so hung up on the trivial, you can't see the selling of your country down the Yukon River if you were on it. Here in the states we continue to be the great experiment and bend, pull contract and progressively move into the future at light speed. When was the last time in most recent modern times Canada said " hey world come on over and give it a try; we have open arms, a few rules and if you can cut it you can stay",? Never. The states are still wide open, it's just we have more sensational news personalities that need to create more news to have a job tomorrow. Oh well, at least it's not force fed by the CBC.

Wild Bill · May 16, 2000

RE: that guy with inferiority complex in Canada...

Toadgirl

I am an American. I am a proud American. I love the flag and for what it stands for. But I also agree Jim has a point.

5 years ago when I started in expediting I was working for a company in Akron, OH (Which will remain nameless...lol) Because of where I live 70% of the loads I got when leaving home would go to Canada. When I first started going up there I didn't have a clue about their country. Since this company thought I should practically live in Milton, Ontario I began trying to learn about my "adopted country'. I started to watch the CBC and to read the newspapers and I realized how ignorant I actually was. and as I would sit in the Fifth Wheel truckstop I seen lots of other Americans just like myself. I even seen Americans try to put US postage on mail and try to mail it from Canada, then wonder why they have to buy Canadian postage!

Canadians are taught about our 50 states in addition to their Providences. They know who our president is (and No I asked they wont take him! I tried!...lol)They understand how our goverment works...etc How many of us can name the Prime Minister of Canada? How many providences do they have? Who is the Premier of Ontario? Some Candians consider us to be stuck up, But I think its just because we don't know any better. But I do think we could learn a little more about our best ally.

We do not have a perfect country. Neither is Canada. Both are great countries and we should all be proud of NORTH AMERICA. All Jim is doing is defending his country just like we would ours. Mr Bunting is a true patriot and I applaud him for that.

We share the longest undefended border in the world. Our countries are friends , we should remember that. And remember one thing. Remember back in the 70's when Iran seized our embassy and the Iranians took our people hostage? How many Americans were hidden and smuggled out of Iran by the Canadian Embassy back to safety at the risk to their own safety? Its time to put this pettiness behind us.

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God Bless America and God Bless Canada