Re: Embarking on an odyssey to celebrate Canada's 150th, Jan. 1

Embarking on an odyssey to celebrate Canada's 150th, Jan. 1

There seems to be no enduring legacy planned for Canada’s 150th anniversary, yet there is one possibility crying out to be heard — our railways. Canada was built around the railways (and not every aspect of the story is positive). The Centennial Train was made much of 50 years ago.

However, now our railways have fallen into disrepair. It is embarrassing to see the reaction of European tourists travelling across the country on our much-touted “Canadian” — jouncing on poorly maintained tracks, and waiting on sidings for freight trains to pass. Trains, which used to serve communities small and large, have been taken off and the tracks have been junked.

Let’s celebrate year 150 by re-establishing environmentally responsible transit. Bring back our trains. Repair the rails. Make passenger travel a priority.

And let’s stop building airports for fossil fuel guzzling and spewing planes. Protect the environment, foster community, create jobs through travel within Canada.

Kate Chung, Toronto

Do you support Canada’s Navy? Here’s your opportunity to prove it. This year marks an important historical milestone: 150 years of our great nation, Canada. This is our opportunity to recognize a Canadian icon of excellence, the last of its kind in the world.

The “fightingest ship” Canada has ever produced, Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) HAIDA served during World War II, the Korean War and the Cold War, sinking more enemy tonnage than any other ship in Canadian history.

But unless you act soon, HMCS HAIDA will not be given due recognition during the Canada150 celebrations.

Go to petitions.parl.gc.ca before Feb. 22 and add your signature to petition E-560 to honour the incredible accomplishments of HMCS HAIDA. This is a simple and symbolic way that you, and those you share this petition with, can make the Canada150 celebrations even better.

Many won’t act. Prove your support for Canada’s Navy. Sign petition E-560.

Patrick White, Founder and Executive Director, Project Naval Distinction, Montreal