We all have a tendency to deal in stereotypes because the media in both of our countries bombard us with generalities every single day. The “Ugly American” is one very common stereotype and, in some cases, it is a well-deserved moniker.

Having lived in or visited 48 of the 50 states, you learn quickly that there is no such thing as “The American” that represents everyone. Canada is a lovely country and my experiences there have been no different than the U.S. — a few bad ones but mostly good. People are people and it is fabulous to experience different cultures and different ways of life. That’s why I have settled back in New Mexico.

And, to come back on topic, that’s why someone like Dudley is so revolting. People are people and everyone should be treated with respect. Especially by public servants who wear the emblems and flag of our countries. Their is no place for bigotry and prejudice of any kind.

In any event, I am not going to defend the USA against ridiculous comments, nor do I think people are very different regardless of what side of the border they live on. As far as speeding … well, anyone who has ever driven the New York State Thruway or I-81 can testify about those countless cars with Ontario license plates doing 100 MPH and more.

However, it is always eluminating to see comments from Canadians … although I doubt that you are very representative of anything except a polar extreme.

Get a grip … the story was about one stupid cop with a bug up his butt. I would not tolerate an idiot like this on either side of the border. The last time I was in Canada, we crossed over at Sault Ste. Marie and it was a far more pleasant trip.

Your comments are thoughtful and make a lot of sense. It occurred to me that the officer and the justice probably don’t even live in the town, yet they are giving the town a bad reputation. I am so torn by this event because I really do love visiting Canada, but I will do whatever it takes to avoid another meeting with Dudley Do-Right. Slowing traffic down to 50 KM/HR should be a joyous experience on all travellers along the road.

Sorry about your bad experinece sir. I grew up in Pembroke/Petawawa there is a great army facility there that actually helps support the war that’s going on. Don’t let the actions of ONE fool ruin your image of a town that holds a lot of history. You mentioned you fish, every May long weekend I head back for several days of walleye fishing and each time out we catch our limit. I have also been caught by officers on several occassions but your plates and mine are somewhat different in turn so was the experience. The town and the people aren’t that bad… unfortunately there isn’t another route to get where you wanted to go without adding many extra miles to your odometer. Sorry your experience wasn’t a pleasant one!

Thanks for the fabulous link. It is hard for me to fathom how someone like “Dudley” has escaped scrutiny all this time. Maybe he hasn’t … and maybe that is why he targets Americans who are not as likely to undertstand that agencies like the OCCPS exist.

Maybe, in fairness, I should add that I have been traveling to Canada for years and this was truly my first bad experience. I have visited Montreal, Nova Scotia, Victoria and the Spanish/Sudbury region … and I would rather travel there then other places around the world.

If Rosalita and I weren’t so in love with the Waterfalls Lodge, “Dudley” would have forever ended my vacations to a wonderful country.

http://www.occps.ca/

In Ontario, police services and police services boards are ultimately accountable to the public through the Commission. The mandate and duties of the Ontario Civilian Commission on Police Services are set out in the Police Services Act. The Commission reports to the Solicitor General.

The Ontario Civilian Commission on Police Services is an independent oversight agency committed to serving the public by ensuring that adequate and effective policing services are provided to the community in a fair and accountable manner.