In downtown library search, why not make what’s old new again?
All this expectation and anxiety about looking for a new place for our downtown library branch. Look no further than the original building on Ouellette Avenue, sitting there empty and absolutely a perfect fit since it was designed as such. I think that, as taxpayers, we should be looking at the reasons why we abandoned this location in the first place.
Roger Lanoue, Windsor
Windsor must innovate to save jobs
Canadians must accept that our reliance on and interdependence with the United States exists beyond trade relations and also reduces domestic innovation. Too often, our businesses and researchers move south to take advantage of commercialization opportunities. Municipalities like Windsor can be the front-line barrier to this migration.
The local voices in reporter Madeline Mazak’s news story were correct in noting that reasserting Canadian independence solely through trade protectionism and tariffs is unrealistic while neighbouring an economic powerhouse. Thus, we must shift our focus toward creating conditions that attract and retain business and innovation.
Whether through incentivizing patents, strengthening intellectual property outreach and education, or supporting Windsor startups, retention should be treated as part of an economic sovereignty strategy. Similar to reducing trade dependency, Canadian cities must work with local businesses and researchers to keep them growing within our borders.
While intellectual property enforcement and trade policy are mainly federal responsibilities, municipalities like Windsor can still play an important role in economic resilience by supporting and keeping innovation local.
Mason Doornaert, Windsor
Let’s just celebrate the Gordie bridge ourselves
As a Canadian waiting for the opening of the new bridge, how about setting a beautiful May date for pedestrians to walk and mark this historical achievement? Why is all our activity being halted by one single crazy man? I was on the Ambassador Bridge in 1969 when the Alaska Amchitka Island anti-nuclear protest halted in the middle of the international crossing.
Let’s have the prime minister, premier and mayor lead everyone in a memorable celebration. And maybe our U.S. friends just might meet us there too. Canada Strong!
Patrick J Mullin, Essex
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