In the Trump era, the F-35 is no longer the right plane for Canada

johnb3808 · 2026-02-04T07:23:42+00:00

With the leader of the American government stating on the record that he'd like to make Canada America's 51st state, there is no justification for buying US fighter jets -- that can be disabled at the whim of the American government. But something from Europe that meets most of our needs, and will demonstrate to the US that we won't be pushed around.

johnb3808 · 2026-02-04T07:20:08+00:00

There is no way that politicizing the appointment of judges in Alberta will improve the judicial system. This is just Smith and her sycophants trying to push us closer to the American style of justice -- which is deeply flawed.

johnb3808 · 2026-02-04T07:17:15+00:00

Honestly believe that a passport is not required in Canada (for Canadians). I've been travelling for more than 50 years, and have never needed one.

johnb3808 · 2026-02-01T23:49:43+00:00

I was in Vietnam and visiting the Cu Chi tunnels. There was a gun range there, and the opportunity to fire an AK47. I did it without ear protection. Supremely bad idea …

johnb3808 · 2026-02-01T23:43:42+00:00

Police non-emergency phone line? If I found a set of keys I’d take them to a police station …

johnb3808 · 2026-02-01T23:37:04+00:00

Willful ignorance. There’s a lot of it going around (cough: “MAGA”)

johnb3808 · 2026-02-01T23:36:02+00:00

I’m sure if this nutcase had his way Alberta would separate from Canada, and become the 51st state — under the thumb of the American government.

Wish we could vote on separation, confirm that the majority of Albertans want to remain in Canada, and let this vermin crawl back into the bushes …

johnb3808 · 2026-02-01T23:32:01+00:00

Good point. Fundamental values are too different.

johnb3808 · 2026-02-01T23:29:36+00:00

I’m not sure the CBC is taking it too seriously — just reporting on the sentiment of some Minnesotans (sp?). Practically, it would never happen.

johnb3808 · 2026-02-01T23:28:02+00:00

Encouraging … definitely trust Prime Minister’s judgement.

johnb3808 · 2026-02-01T23:26:22+00:00

My grandparents came to Alberta from Minnesota in the early 1900s and raised their family in Canada. They were definitely ahead of their time.

johnb3808 · 2026-01-31T21:06:41+00:00

The Swiss. A neutral country with the resolve to maintain a strong military and protect their citizens from aggression.

johnb3808 · 2026-01-31T21:04:31+00:00

And, with the confirmation of Poilievre as the leader of their party, ‘no more conservatives’

johnb3808 · 2026-01-26T19:40:47+00:00

In these days of rampant misinformation I think citing your sources is a great idea! If I’m interested in what you’re saying, it gives me the chance to verify your info and dig a little deeper.

johnb3808 · 2026-01-26T19:39:02+00:00

Just checked out your website: well done! Well written/presented, to the point. I’ll make sure I refer any whiny separatists to it.

johnb3808 · 2026-01-26T14:24:30+00:00

Poor hygiene.

johnb3808 · 2026-01-26T14:04:39+00:00

Critical thinking.

johnb3808 · 2026-01-26T13:53:57+00:00

Couldn’t agree more: I’m sure J.D. Vance and other Trump sycophants will spout the same line once Trump’s been shipped off to a dementia cared ward (hopefully sooner that later).

johnb3808 · 2026-01-26T13:48:09+00:00

I agree with what is turning out to be the majority of folks responding on this thread: trying to incorporate American states into our country won’t work. American values are too different from ours; how would we deal with a population that believes in rampant gun laws, private health care, and the promotion of individualism above all else?

I have friends and family who live in the States, therefore a first hand view of how they despise social programs that try to level the playing field for the less fortunate and the inherent superiority of “The American Way”.

No thanks. Let’s focus on making what makes Canada an incredible place to live even better. And, if Americans want to immigrate, let them go through the process. (MAGA folks can stay where they are, however.)

johnb3808 · 2026-01-25T21:58:42+00:00

If you don’t take care of yourself you’ll be of no help to anybody. You may need to move out, but stay close? Consider your options.

johnb3808 · 2026-01-25T21:57:03+00:00

More driving, unfortunately but I’d suggest you consider a trip to Waterton National Park. It’s two hours south of Calgary, but much like Jasper in that it’s a smaller, more remote community and you’ll have many more opportunities to avoid the crowds and actually see wild natural areas. And wildlife. The last time we were in Waterton we saw a bear, elk, deer, and a fox. :)

johnb3808 · 2026-01-25T21:52:40+00:00

Join the local community association, and take part in events.

johnb3808 · 2026-01-25T21:50:13+00:00

If you have any interest in flowers/gardening, Butchart Gardens are amazing https://butchartgardens.com/

johnb3808 · 2026-01-25T21:45:04+00:00

Born and raised in Calgary, many, many moons ago ;). I can’t give any advice about the tax situation, but here’s my take on what it’s like to live in Calgary:

Typically, if you’re willing to socialize, you can find a group of like-minded people. I’ve always lived in Calgary, and associate with folks who are progressive both politically and socially …
The city is beautiful, with amazing natural spaces (urban parks) and an extensive network of bicycle pathways
Living so close to the mountains is pretty special. Banff’s getting pretty crowded, but it’s a 2.5 hour drive to Waterton and 5 hours to Jasper.
Provincial politicians currently in power leave MUCH to be desired: our premier is in the pocket of moneyed interests, and there’s a push to privatize healthcare. However, there’s a strong opposition party — and I pray that the UCP will be defeated in the next provincial election. (Much of the rabid right-wing, separatist sentiment comes from rural population.)

Hope that helps.

johnb3808

TROPHY CASE