Columns
“Everything
Feels Broken” with Pierre Poilievre
Brandon Sun, December 19, 2022: Everything
Feels Broken, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre’s video
about homeless drug addicts, has been widely denounced. “Toxic lies”
sums up the reaction in the mainstream media. But I think this
response is misplaced. Poilievre is not to blame; we, the citizens,
are.Read the full column
COVID
and Conspiracy Theories
Brandon Sun, November 21, 2022: Can we learn from our
provincial COVID response to help us deal with our current healthcare
crisis? And also to help us prepare for the next pandemic? I am afraid
that in Manitoba we are too often content with mediocrity and are
reluctant to learn. Read the full column
Pierre Poilievre, Populist Politician?
Brandon Sun, October 24, 2022: That’s quite the new
leader of His Majesty's Loyal Opposition, eh? Pierre Poilievre is a
radical break from the conservative past in Canadian politics and
deserves our attention right now. Read the full column
Write Legacy Letter to Express Values, Lessons
Learned in Life
Brandon Sun, September 20, 2022: Any day can be a reminder
to us of our mortality, of what it means to live a good life and of
one generation inspiring the next. What recommendations would you have
on how to live a good life? Here is a way to share your insights. You
can write a legacy letter.Read the full column
Plenty of Local History to be Seen at Cemetery
Brandon Sun, August 15, 2022: A great way to connect
with your community is to get to know your local cemetery. And books,
online resources, walking tours and personal visits bring to life the
stories of those buried there. Read the full column
Antislavery Book Resonates Today
Brandon Sun, July 11, 2022: Emancipation Day is August 1, a
perfect opportunity to review one of my favourite books. Emancipation
Day celebrates the date in 1834 when slavery was abolished in the
British Empire. The book tells the story of that emancipation. By
American writer Adam Hochschild, it is Bury the Chains:
Prophets and Rebels in the Fight to Free an Empire's Slaves.Read the full column
Can We Know What Is Morally Right?
Brandon Sun, June 13, 2022: Russian war crimes
reported from Ukraine – like rape, torture and killing of civilians –
are shocking. And that has led me to reflect on some big questions.
What leads a country and its ordinary soldiers to commit such immoral
acts? And its citizens to go along with an immoral war?But can we know what is morally right?
Read the full column
Obits Change in Post-Pandemic World
Brandon Sun, May 9, 2022: Much is changing in our
post-pandemic world. Considering pandemics revolve around death, there
is no surprise that one thing undergoing change is the obituary. As in
other areas, the pandemic hurried along trends already in motion. And
the pandemic introduced some new trends as well. Read the full column
Nurturing
of Memory, Learning and Contemplation
Brandon Sun, April 4, 2022: How do we as a society remember
the past? Helping us remember are public installations recognizing our
history. These plaques, monuments and other markers foster
understanding, including about discomforting aspects of our past. Last
summer and through the fall and winter, my wife and I visited . . .Read the full column
Two More Health-Care
Ideas
Brandon Sun, March 7, 2022: I would like to continue
from last month’s health-care column, in particular the lengthening
waiting lists for surgeries and diagnostic tests. I start with my own
experience . . .Read the full column
Health
Care: Gratitude, Reality and Just Doing It
Brandon Sun, January 31, 2022: Because of the pandemic and
the long waiting lists, there have been calls to update our
health-care system. But I find that much public discussion avoids
saying much of anything. Like, in the last federal election,
politicians avoided saying much of significance. So, I volunteer to
say something here: both some general thoughts and some actual
specifics.Read the full column
Try a Little Kindness in 2022
Brandon Sun, January 3, 2022: For the new year, I offer a book
suggestion that may resonate with some of you. But I bet even more of
you will roll your eyes. Even facing some eye rolling, I will plunge
forward with some musings.The book is A Year of Living Kindly: Choices That Will Change Your Life and the World Around You.
Read the full column
Author Upends Beliefs About Human Kindness
Brandon Sun, December 6, 2021: Do you think people are
fundamentally uncaring and mean-spirited? Or are people basically
decent and good? Voting for goodness is a new book by Dutch historian
Rutger Bregman, Humankind: A Hopeful History. Bregman
argues that not only are we kinder than we think we are, but also our
assumption of the worst in us holds us back from becoming our best.Read the full column
Reflecting
on Trudeau, Leadership and Wisdom
Brandon Sun, November 8, 2021: Since the federal election
and the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, I have been
reflecting on Justin Trudeau. On Trudeau as a person and as a leader –
in general and during Canadians’ current search for reconciliation.
And whether we should expect wisdom in our leaders.Read the full column
Reflections on the 'Big
Shrug'
Brandon Sun, October 4, 2021: Tempted to forget about
the election from two weeks ago? Well, before you do, I would like to
share six observations.Read the full column
Why Do Good
People Fall for Bad Ideas?
The Line, August 31, 2021: For the last few months,
Manitobans and Canadians have been discussing the 100-year history and
legacy of the Indian residential schools. This got me reflecting on
what happened in the past and how we could do better today. At the
core of my wondering: Why do good people succumb to bad ideas?Read the full column
Why I Started Meditating
Brandon Sun, July 26, 2021: Well, I finally started
meditating. I thought I eventually would; it has been on my mind for
decades.Read the full column
Time to Awaken Our Inner Patriot
Brandon Sun, June 28, 2021: This Canada Day, let’s awaken
our inner patriot. Read the full column
Don't Forget About Christine Mitchell
Brandon Sun, June 7, 2021: We have now had an official refusal to release details of the investigation into the 2019 death of Christine Mitchell. So should we citizens just forget about it and move on?No. Please don’t forget Mitchell.
Read the full column
The Pandemic: Do Better This Time, Prepare for
Next Time
Brandon Sun, May 31, 2021: I had to double check to make
sure I wasn’t reading the Brandon Sun from a year ago. Surely after a
year both the provincial government and the citizens can’t be failing
this badly? Read the full column
Whither the Boy
Scouts of America?
Brandon Sun, April 26, 2021: The 110-year-old Boy Scouts of
America declared bankruptcy last year in order to deal with
compensating thousands of victims of sexual abuse. This story is of
interest for several reasons. There is the Westman connection to the
founding of the Boy Scouts. And the fate of organizations like the
Scouts speaks to the direction of our society, especially after our
experience with the pandemic.Read the full column
Drug
Decriminalization is Coming to Canada
Brandon Sun, March 29, 2021: Decriminalization of all drugs
is coming to Canada. In fact, it is already here. But our political
and law enforcement leaders have sent us confusing messages about drug
decriminalization. So, what is it? Does it make sense? How is it being
implemented now? How could it be enhanced in the future? Read the full column
Meghan and Harry's
Big Cultural Moment
Brandon Sun, March 22, 2021: Of course I watched the
Oprah Winfrey interview with Meghan and Harry and reflected on it as a
cultural moment.Read the full column
Actually, Atheism is All You Need to Thrive . . .
If You Do It Well
The Line, March 2, 2021: The key to a good life isn't
believing, but belonging. Framed by some thoughts on the book by
Jonathan Haidt, The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided
by Politics and Religion.Read the full column
Will the Pandemic Shake Canadian Complacency?
Brandon Sun, March 1, 2021: A COVID cliché is that things will never be the same again. One thing that I hope changes for the better: Canadian complacency. Hey, my fellow Canadians! Time to stop being so complacent! Out there is a big, wide world!Read the full column
The Role for Today’s Armchair Epidemiologists
Brandon Sun, February 1, 2021: During this pandemic, we find ourselves asking questions about new concepts like Code Red, herd immunity, variant strains, bubbles and “flattening the curve.” We have become armchair epidemiologists. And that’s a good thing.Read the full column
Biden Our Time for Generational Change
Brandon Sun, January 25, 2021: We are in a time of change.
A new year. With vaccines, a way out of the pandemic. The beginning of
the Biden era. Another change always chugging along is generational
change. And the new American presidency highlights this change by
ushering in an unexpected generation.Read the full column
An Idea for the Year Changeover: Write Your Life
Story
Brandon Sun, December 26, 2020: Well, we hope that next
year will be better than this one! I would like to describe an idea
for the turning of the year. Here is something to wrap up the old year
or to send forward as a resolution for the new year. It is no-cost and
– once you get started – relatively simple and easy: write your life
story. Read the full column
The Master Persuader
Brandon Sun, December 7, 2020: How do you get millions to
believe in a false conspiracy theory? Enter Donald Trump, “master
persuader.” The implications of what is happening right now in the
post-election U.S. are so profound, they are worth noticing.Read the full column
Lessons from the U.S. Election
Brandon Sun, November 30, 2020: I have been
reflecting on some lessons from the U.S. election. Two words come to
mind: humiliation and humility. And although these observations grow
out of the U.S. context, they are also general, so there is much to
ponder for us Canadians.Read the full column
What’s in a Name?
Brandon Sun, November 23, 2020: The discussion about
renaming Rosser Avenue has prompted more reflections for me. But
instead of dwelling on deplorable people from the past, I am recalling
three inspiring women from 100 years ago. We could enhance our
community by naming landmarks after them, such as a prominent school.
Talk about some good news right about now! Read the full column
The End of the Trump Era?
Brandon Sun, November 2, 2020: Tomorrow, American
citizens have a big decision. They can extend the Trump era by
re–electing the president. Or, they can go in a different direction by
electing Joe Biden. Today’s column challenge: summarize where we are
right now. An impossible task, but here are some phenomena that could
happen only in the Trump era.Read the full column
Which One is the Head
of State Again?
Brandon Sun, October 26, 2020: Who is Canada’s
head of state? Who is our head of government? What is the difference
again? What about the U.S.? In the minds of us citizens, these
concepts are often confused or ignored as being irrelevant. But right
now – by sheer coincidence – both Canadians and Americans are
pondering questions in this area of constitution and governance. Read the full column
Book
Explores One Year of Living Spiritually
Brandon Sun, September 28, 2020: Are you curious
about what it might mean to live more spiritually? Have I got the book
for you! Canadian writer Anne Bokma spent a year exploring this topic
and reports back to us from the field. Her book is My Year of
Living Spiritually: From Woo-Woo to Wonderful – One Woman's
Secular Quest for a More Soulful Life.Read the full column
Racial
Misreckoning Only Limits Our Vision
Brandon Sun, September 21, 2020: We find ourselves in
a societal search for racial understanding and reckoning.
Unfortunately, some of the current conversation is counterproductive
and divisive, weighed down with baffling theories and bizarre
accusations of white supremacy.Read the full column
Should
We Be Worried About “Cancel Culture”
Brandon Sun, August 24, 2020: What is “cancel culture”? And
– considering all the other things to worry about now – should we be
concerned? This question came to the fore with an open letter to
Harper’s Magazine signed by a host of luminaries including Margaret
Atwood, J.K. Rowling, Salman Rushdie and Gloria Steinem. Even though
the concept of “cancel culture” is a vague one, the issue is well
worth exploring.Read the full column
Remembering F.A. Rosser, Wondering About Earl Oxford
Brandon Sun, July 20, 2020: This is such an interesting time; my mind is overflowing with observations, concerns and questions. Here are three that I am pondering right now.Read the full column
More Observations
From a Century Ago
Brandon Sun, June 29, 2020: In my last column I
introduced you to the recollections of my maternal grandparents who
lived through the 1918 flu pandemic in Lauder, Manitoba. In reading
their remembrances of the pandemic, I was struck by two other themes
from a century ago. One was the sense of global awareness, which we
still have today. The other was the participation in a successful
grassroots movement, the memory of which today has faded away. Read the full column
A Local Journal of the
1918 Flu
Brandon Sun, June 22, 2020: In trying to get some
perspective of the current pandemic, I decided to look up the diaries
and remembrances of my maternal grandparents who lived in Westman
during the flu pandemic of 1918. I discovered some interesting
snapshots of their time and comparisons with today.Read the full column
Here's an Idea: Raise Our Taxes
Brandon Sun, June 1, 2020: I am going to humbly
suggest some tax measures appropriate for our times: to start paying
back the debt being incurred by pandemic costs; to increase fairness
and productivity; and to remind all of us citizens that money is not
“free.”Read the full column
Our Leaders Must Tell Us the Truth About the Pandemic
Brandon Sun, May 25, 2020: The coronavirus pandemic challenges our political leaders to demonstrate an extraordinary level not just of competence, but also of candor. For years, our leaders have bungled and have not told us the truth about the drug health emergency. When it comes to confronting the pandemic health emergency, we citizens must demand that our leaders tell us the truth.Read the full column
Manitoba Day Musings
Brandon Sun, May 11, 2020: Tomorrow is Manitoba Day.
Our province was founded on this day 150 years ago. Even though
sesquicentennial celebrations have been postponed because of the
pandemic, we can pause to mark the occasion.Read the full column
You are Both Right
– and Both Wrong
Brandon Sun, April 20, 2020: There is good reading in
the Sound Off! feature in this newspaper. One interesting
thread recently has been the discussion of whether to feed meals to
kids in school. I would like to compliment both sides for marshalling
good points. You are both right. And you are both wrong. I am
delighted to add my two cents, including some thoughts inspired by our
sesquicentennial.Read the full column
Reflecting on Big Questions
Brandon Sun, April 6, 2020: Living during a global pandemic raises big questions. Here are six that I am paying attention to right now.Read the full column
Appreciate Everyday Goodness All Around Us
Brandon Sun, March 16, 2020: New revelations of sexual misconduct by prominent men are becoming the new normal. But even today, the recent report of sexual abuse committed by Jean Vanier is shocking. For me, this news invites some reflection on human nature as well as on the nature of faith and celebrity. And on how publicity about the bad deeds of great men can distract us from appreciating the ordinary goodness all around us.Read the full column
Gripping New Memoir from Canadian Author “Unveiled”
Brandon Sun, February 10, 2020: A young girl is ferociously whipped by her stepfather for not correctly memorizing verses of the Qur’an. Her mother watches with approval. But the government's child protection authorities and justice system do not intervene to protect the girl. In fact, a judge rules that everything is OK. Where did this happen? In some poor, backward place? No. This happened right here in Canada.Read the full column
Telling the Truth Today
Brandon Sun, January 13, 2020: How do you know what is
true? How do you tell others about the truth? How do you tell your
story? What if you are talking to another person who believes
something that seems untrue? Can you change their mind? Are you open
to changing your mind? Two recent books explore these topics. And they
say much about the time we live in.Read the full column
The Trump
Impeachment – What the Heck, America?
Brandon Sun, January 6, 2020: History soon will be
made in the U.S. Senate with the impeachment trial of President Trump.
And it is a good time for us Canadians to ask: What the heck is
happening in the U.S.?Read the full column
Getting to Good Ideas
Brandon Sun, December 30, 2019: How do we get to good
ideas? The ideas that are good for us: personally, socially,
technologically, ethically? This can be hard because we often adopt
our beliefs without factual evidence. And when discussing ideas with
others, we often aren’t open to alternative views. Rather, we double
down on our preconceived notions.Read the full column
“Islamophobia”
Blunts Criticism of Religion
Brandon Sun, December 16, 2019: Podcasts offer deep dives into
fascinating and controversial subjects. I listened recently to the 2019
CBC Massey Lectures on the CBC Radio podcast, Ideas.
This year’s topic is the long – thousands of years! – struggle
for women's equality. The lectures feature Canadian journalist, author
and human rights activist Sally Armstrong. The title is Power
Shift: The Longest Revolution. Despite Armstrong’s sharp passion, though, her remarks about Islam seem blunted by political correctness. I blame the bogus concept of “Islamophobia.”
Read the full column
Climate Change Activism Still a Learning Experience
Brandon Sun, November 18, 2019: In Westman and around the world, millions of school students are protesting inaction around climate change. One of the inspirations is Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg. Objections have also been raised, like: should children have to be concerned about serious global problems? All in all, I see wonderful opportunities for kids to learn valuable life lessons.Read the full column
Early
Manitoba Premier Had a Great Story
Brandon Sun, November 4, 2019: Someday – regardless
of political party – wouldn't it be great to have a Manitoba premier
of Indigenous heritage? Approaching Manitoba’s 150th anniversary in
2020 brings to mind such questions.Oh, wait. We already had that premier. Often forgotten, his story should be told more today.
Read the full column
War on Drugs No Easy
Battle
Brandon Sun, October 21, 2019: The recent news of the drug
overdose death of Christine Mitchel has shaken our community. That she
had received deliveries of illegal drugs for almost five years while
living in the home of a prominent citizen adds to the newsworthiness
and speculation. Subsequent investigation will shed more light on what
happened. But let's be clear: the entire community shares in the
ultimate responsibility.Read the full column
Election Puts
Race, Religion in Spotlight
Brandon Sun, October 7, 2019: Even before photos emerged
of Justin Trudeau in blackface, race and religion were already factors
in this federal election. And the focus of an election creates a
perfect opportunity for citizens to reflect on some interesting and
controversial questions. Read the full column
Who Tells the Best Climate Change Stories?
Brandon Sun, September 30, 2019: Which of these two
stories would you like to read about? “More than 15,000 scientists
issue warning to humanity about climate change”? Or how about: “One
scientist says global warming a hoax, world will soon start cooling”?I’m with you. Let’s look at the second story.
Read the full column
Book Explores Gratitude for the World in a Cup of
Coffee
Brandon Sun, September 9, 2019: Have you ever
considered all the people involved in bringing you your morning cup of
coffee? I mean everyone: from the farmer to the shipper to the staff
at the grocery store or coffee shop? Have you ever thought of
expressing your gratitude to all those folks? American writer A.J.
Jacobs does that with his new book: Thanks a Thousand: A
Gratitude Journey.Read the full column
Can We Say No to More Racism?
Brandon Sun, July 29, 2019: How could you stay silent and do nothing while a genocide was happening in your own country? That is the implicit question asked of all Canadians in the report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. While I disagree with some of their analyses and conclusions, I do think that the report is a challenge to us. We are challenged to call out racism and to ask more questions. So, I will call out some racism and ask a question: Why is an urban reserve being set up in Brandon?Read the full column
Looking Past the Label of the "Wrong Side of the Tracks"
Brandon Sun, July 8, 2019: Like many of us, I have been looking at the MMIWG report: the report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. At the same time, I have been preparing to return to Brandon’s ghetto for this summer’s Doors Open Brandon. Juxtaposing the two in my mind has me pondering questions about the Canadian and local experience. How have we perceived “ourselves” and “others” over the years? How have we treated one other? And now, how can we help all of us to be our best selves?Read the full column
The Medium that is our Mind: A McLuhanesque Meditation
Brandon Sun, June 24, 2019: Something profound is going on with media today, especially smartphones and social media. But how do you understand a revolution when you are in the midst of it? Coming in handy here is recalling Marshall McLuhan, the late media guru. To get a better sense of where we are in the media landscape, I offer a meditation in four McLuhan-inspired probes.Read the full column
More Gambling and Addiction for Brandon?
Brandon Sun, June 3, 2019: You may have noticed the billboard on 18th Street with the message that VLT wins are random. Of course! Random reinforcement is very rewarding and encourages continued behaviour. Right now is a good time to take another look at such issues because Brandon could get a new gambling venue with the urban reserve.Read the full column
LGBT
Rights – 50 Years Worth of Challenge and Progress
Brandon Sun, May 27, 2019: I am delighted with the special
commemorative loonie marking 50 years of decriminalizing homosexuality
in Canada. And it’s a good reminder that problems persist: generally
in the world and specifically within many religions. Recent
revelations, for example, point to this issue within the Roman
Catholic Church.Read the full column
Do We Have to Pay All of Our Income Taxes?
Brandon Sun, April 22, 2019: An income tax story in the Winnipeg Free Press and on CBC radio caught my attention. A farming couple in eastern Manitoba, along with others across Canada, refuse to pay the military portion of their income taxes. Because of their religious beliefs, they assert that they should be exempt from funding war. Are they right?Read the full column
Death Doulas and Death Cafés
Brandon Sun, April 1, 2019: We know that we should be
more open and more prepared for death. After all, it is inevitable at
some point. We, our families and society in general benefit from frank
discussion and advance planning. But there is no convenient time; the
topic can easily be put off. Fortunately, two new opportunities to
deal with this fact of life are making more of an appearance: the
death doula and the Death Café. Read the full column
Thoughts on the SNC-Lavalin Scandal
Brandon Sun, March 25, 2019: So we have a big Canadian political scandal, eh? We turn our eyes from the Trump show in the States to watch our home-grown “l’affaire SNC-Lavalin.” And whether the uproar is a temporary blip or if it brings down the Trudeau government this fall, I note three observations.Read the full column
God Dominating the News
Brandon Sun, February 25, 2019: God has been in the news lately. U.S. presidential spokesperson Sarah Sanders announced that God had supported Donald Trump in the 2016 election. In other news, the United Church finally decided what to do about its atheist minister. And Canadian singer Drake won the best rap song Grammy for “God's Plan.”Read the full column
Drug Policies Require More Humility, Less Virtue Signaling
Brandon Sun, February 11, 2019: Why do some people take and become addicted to destructive drugs? We don’t know the answer. So you would think that our provincial political leaders would show a little humility around the topic. Instead, both the Progressive Conservative government and the NDP opposition assert – to the point of arrogance – that they know the answers. And instead of genuine inquiry and discussion, they both engage in vapid “virtue signaling.”Read the full column
Do Service Clubs Have a Future?
Brandon Sun, January 21, 2019: Westman’s oldest service club, the Kiwanis Club of Brandon, celebrates its centennial next month. As a Kiwanian myself, I take special interest. And a landmark anniversary presents a chance to reflect on service clubs: their past, their future, and their role in the life of a community.Read the full column
Why Such Slow Action on Climate Change?
Brandon Sun, January 14, 2019: Thirty years ago, Time magazine’s “Person of the Year” was neither a man nor a woman. Instead, for 1988, the “endangered Earth” was named Planet of the Year. The magazine summed it up: “The problem: greenhouse gases could create a climatic calamity.” The question for today: if we have known about this issue for 30 years, why have we been so slow to act?Read the full column
How
Do You Be a Good Person?
Brandon Sun, December 24, 2018: Do you remember the episode
of The Good Place when Chidi learns why he has been
sent to hell? You may not watch this TV comedy, but its premise is a
question that can also pop up at this time of year. The question is
both an ancient and a modern one: How do you be a good person?Read the full column
Science, Experts and Flu Shots
Brandon Sun, November 26, 2018: I just got my annual flu shot. I support getting the vaccination for myself and for my family. I also support the government providing vaccinations free for everyone. I support it even though I know that any program has some negative consequences. But people balking at vaccinations reflects a disturbing reality where individuals choose what science to believe.Read the full column
Winnipeg
War Memorials Reveal Artistry, History and Memory
Brandon Sun, November 5, 2018: You have probably
passed by them on Portage Avenue in Winnipeg without noticing. But
these memorials from the First World War are hidden gems of artistry,
history and memory. They offer a chance for a moment of reflection and
remembrance on any day.Read the full column
Climate Change will Still be an Issue after the 2019 Election
Brandon Sun, October 29, 2018: Andrew Scheer’s Conservatives will win the 2019 election. There: I wanted a strong opening. Got your attention, eh? Of course, I can’t make an accurate prediction for an event one year from now. But I do not make a prediction as much as I make an observation. And I do not make an observation as much as I make a lament.Read the full column
Canadians are Too Smug
Brandon Sun, October 22, 2018: We Canadians sure were
entranced by the recent U.S. Supreme Court spectacle, eh? And while we
watched, I think many Canadians were feeling rather smug. We don’t
have those kinds of problems, do we? And even if we do, we deal with
them discreetly and politely, don’t we? I say to my fellow citizens:
don’t be so smug!Read the full column
Discovering Rewritten History
Brandon Sun, September 24, 2018: Earlier this summer, I was walking through the Brandon Cemetery, planning a route for my Doors Open historical walking tour. I came upon a grave that I had not noticed before. The headstone had been changed; history had been rewritten. Sometimes rewriting history is a good thing.Read the full column
Enlightenment
Values Are Needed Now More Than Ever
Brandon Sun, September 17, 2018: Enlightenment
Now is a big book with two messages. The first is that the
Enlightenment values of reason, science, humanism and progress are the
bedrock of today’s prosperous, civil society. The second is that these
values are being threatened and need defending. Author Steven Pinker
reinforces these messages with statistics detailing how the world has
improved since embracing Enlightenment values 250 years ago.Read the full column
How Can We Learn to Think and Argue Better?
Brandon Sun, August 20, 2018: Controversial issues anyone? You have come to the right place! Controversial issues are central to this column. And central to the editorials, letters to the editor and other features that appear on this page. And don’t forget the editorial cartoons!Lately I have been wondering more about how we can better deal with controversial issues.
Read the full column
What Should We
Remember of Our History?
Brandon Sun, July 16, 2018: With any big event, we can pay
attention to only some things. But I would like to draw attention to
an often over-looked point of historical significance about our region
and the First World War. Four of the most prominent social justice
activists in Canada during that time happened to have come from
Westman. Read the full column
What
Can We Learn from the New Science of Psychedelics?
Brandon Sun, July 9, 2018: Michael Pollan is an
American writer and Harvard journalism professor. His books have been
about rather mundane topics. (I reviewed his In Defence of Food
here eight years ago.) So, I was surprised that Pollan’s newest book,
How to Change Your Mind, is about psychedelic drugs.
Pollan makes a book about food interesting. How could he not write an
interesting book about psychedelics?Read the full column
The Fantasyland of the War on Drugs
Brandon Sun, June 18, 2018: We are living in a fantasyland. And we have inhabited a fantasyland for a century. Because we are in a fantasyland, we pretend three things about drugs. First, we pretend that the War on Drugs is working. Second, we pretend that we know how to solve problems of drugs and addiction. And third, we pretend that illegal drugs are always more dangerous than legal drugs.Read the full column
Yoga
an Example of Cultural Diversity and Controversy
Brandon Sun, May 28, 2018: Culture continues to be a hot
topic. Witness the animated debate in Westman right now over – of all
things – the possible dangerous religious implications of yoga!I am not surprised that yoga, like other aspects of culture, is controversial.
Read the full column
Another Story of Mayhem from the Brandon Cemetery
Brandon Sun, May 14, 2018: Why are we drawn to stories of mayhem? Even when they are horrific tragedies? For one thing, we are attracted to newsworthy events. And there is another reason as well. Let’s take a look at this as we recall another story of mayhem from the Brandon Cemetery.Read the full column
Arbour Day: Our
Past and Possible Future
Brandon Sun, May 7, 2018: If this were a century ago
in Brandon, today would be Arbour Day. The day was not only for
planting trees, but also for celebrating a holiday. Looking at how the
day was spent then is a glimpse into a bygone era. But Arbour Day
could also be in our future.Read the full column
In Praise of Paying More Taxes
Brandon Sun, April 16, 2018: Income tax season again, eh? While people and politicians like to complain about taxes, I would like to propose an alternative. I would like to see more people happily paying more taxes! And I would like to see more political leaders extolling the virtues of paying more taxes!Read the full column
Is Jordan
Peterson Today’s Marshall McLuhan?
Brandon Sun, April 9, 2018: How does one grapple with
the phenomenon of Jordan B. Peterson? The Canadian psychology
professor has a lot to say about how we should live in the 21st
century. He makes the news, he is all over the internet, and he is
drenched in controversy. He has a brand new book, 12 Rules For
Life: An Antidote to Chaos. And – what grabbed my
attention – he has been called today’s Marshall McLuhan.Read the full column
More Than Ever, Words and Ideas Matter
Brandon Sun, March 19, 2018: Since the dawn of the Trump era, I have been thinking more about words and ideas. Like: what would be the description of a man who is not a misogynistic bully, who is not ignorant, who is not a boor? I found I have been circling back in my mind to a classic word: a “gentleman.”Read the full column
Women’s
Social Action 100 Years Ago Foreshadowed Today
Brandon Sun, March 12, 2018: History is not just a
series of events that happen to people. History is also a flow: its
course changed by people who ask questions and take action. Progress
will be uneven. But progress happened a century ago; think of women
winning the right to vote. And progress happens today; think of women
changing society with #MeToo.Read the full column
Reflections on Themes from Top 10 Book Lists
Brandon Sun, February 12, 2018: Last week, I wrote about my Top 10 list of recent books that had led me to a better understanding of the world. I also did a list five years ago. While looking over the two lists and reflecting on issues arising, several themes occurred to me.Read the full column
Columnist
Shares Top 10 Winter Reading List
Brandon Sun, February 5, 2018: Five years ago, I
shared a Top 10 list of recent books that had led me to a better
understanding of the world. Time to do it again!Read the full column
Reckoning
Can Even Include “Death Cleaning”
Brandon Sun, January 15, 2018: “Reckoning” might be
the word of the year for 2018. We see a reckoning with the issue of
sexual harassment in the workplace. On a larger scale, the baby
boomers will face a reckoning as they shuffle off the stage of
political leadership. Baby boomers are also taking stock as they get
ready to shuffle off this mortal coil. For this last reckoning, there
is a helpful Swedish concept: “death cleaning.”Read the full column
Lessons from the Election of December 1917
Brandon Sun, December 11, 2017: One hundred years ago, Brandon – and all of Canada – was in the midst of a divisive federal election. It was framed by the First World War. But the course of the election has lessons for us today about keeping our democracy.Read the full column
Christmas Could be a Little More Multicultural
Brandon Sun, December 4, 2017: Merry Christmas! Or are we supposed to say, “Happy Holidays”? But it’s not just today’s political correctness. Christmas has always been controversial. And Christmas customs have been in constant change for two millennia.Read the full column
Effective Altruism Poised to Make Major Impact
Brandon Sun, November 27, 2017: During the Christmas shopping rush, why not pause and think about charitable giving? And why not think about giving in the best way possible. That’s the idea of “effective altruism.”Based in the U.K., the effective altruism movement conducts research and provides information and support to those interested in becoming better donors. A leading figure is Oxford philosophy professor William MacAskill, who describes the concept in his book, Doing Good Better.
Read the full column
Reflections on Watergate, Nixon and Trump
Brandon Sun, November 13, 2017: The first indictments have been handed down in the Robert Mueller inquiry into the Trump-Russia connection. My mind is wandering back to Watergate. And there are interesting comparisons. But then a friend forwards me a commentary from Australia reminding me of another point. We shouldn’t just be watching – or laughing at – the Americans. We should also be asking ourselves: what if a Trump happened here?Reflections on Watergate, Nixon and Trump
Remembered in Bronze
and Stone
Brandon Sun, November 6, 2017: Contemplate a First
World War memorial in a village, town or city. Questions may float
into awareness. Why was that design chosen? How was it made? What
about the artist? Who were they – the names of those who left for war
and never returned home? Questions like those led to a new book that can be found at the Brandon Public Library, Remembered in Bronze and Stone: Canada’s Great War Memorial Statuary.
Read the full column
On Tyranny: Learning Lessons from History
Brandon Sun, October 16, 2017: Lesson No. 1: “Do not
obey in advance.” If that sounds ominous, it should. This is the start of a remarkable new book, On Tyranny: 20 Lessons from the 20th Century. Historian Timothy Snyder was so alarmed by the election of Donald Trump that he wrote this short volume warning his fellow citizens.
Read the full column
I am Becoming More Conservative – Part Two
Brandon Sun, October 2, 2017: We now live in the Trump era in our global village. So, we need all the good ideas we can get! Continuing the discussion from my last column, I look at getting good ideas from a conservative perspective.Here are five issues where I find conservative insights helpful . . .
Read the full column
I am Becoming More Conservative
Brandon Sun, September25, 2017: “So, when are you going to write a pro-Trump column?” My conservative neighbour was teasing me. (During elections, we engage in friendly competition with political lawn signs.) Before I realized it, I replied, “Well, I am not going to write that, but I am becoming more conservative.”What? I am becoming more conservative? Well, yes, I guess I am!
Read the full column
Look at Broader Context Before Removing Building Names
Brandon Sun, September 11, 2017: An interesting public conversation is happening right now in both Canada and the U.S. This conversation is about honouring people from the past with monuments or names on public streets and buildings. The problem is that people may not viewed as positively today as were years ago. What should we do about it?Read the full column
Moral
Truth, Moral Progress and Moral Relativity
Brandon Sun, August 28, 2017: A funny thing happened
on the way to moral progress. The left wing and the right wing have
switched sides. This subtle shift, happening over the past few
decades, has been largely overlooked. What is going on?Read the full column
Sometimes PMs, Presidents Can Make All The Difference
Brandon Sun, August 21, 2017: Great cover on the latest Rolling Stone, eh? There is our charismatic prime minister; the American magazine’s headline is “Justin Trudeau: Why Can’t He Be Our President?”Read the full column
Is Donald Trump the new Joseph Smith?
Brandon Sun, July 24, 2017: I would like to pose a question for discussion: is Donald Trump the new Joseph Smith?Read the full column
Ghost Signs Whisper of Stories from Brandon's Past
Brandon Sun, June 30, 2017: “The past is never dead,” American writer William Faulkner once wrote. “It's not even past.”The past is imprinted on our present. Look at our streets: their shapes, their spectres and their stories.
Read the full column
Canadian
Leaders in Resistance to Trump
Brandon Sun, June 26, 2017: The Trump era has a
silver lining: the resistance. There has been a resurgence of civic
engagement, reading, even comedy. People – in the U.S. and globally –
are challenged to think more critically, to learn more, to become more
involved. Enter six Canadians prominent in the Trump resistance.
Read the full column
Reading the Qur’an Key to Understanding Islam
Brandon Sun, June 19, 2017: Read the Qur’an. This is recommended if you want to better understand the religion of Islam. The Qur’an is important. The book is regarded by 1.6 billion people as the verbatim word of God.Read the full column
Memories of War from the Brandon Cemetery
Brandon Sun, June 5, 2017: The First World War still casts a dark shadow. We look at big historical events. And we retell the stories of ordinary people. We marvel at the interplay of global forces, human aspirations and sheer luck. Here are some memories of the First World War from the Brandon Cemetery.Read the full column
Optimistic New Book From Muslim Writer
Brandon Sun, May 29, 2017: Humanity has a problem. More than one billion people are Muslims who follow the religion of Islam and its holy book, the Qur’an. But parts of the Qur’an are outdated and inappropriate for the 21st century.Yet criticizing the Qur’an is itself a problem.
Read the full column
Cultural
Interaction Can Have Positive Impact
Brandon Sun, April 24, 2017: Culture has become a hot
topic in Canada. But I find several current approaches to be
narrow-minded. They also lack an appreciation of cultural exchange,
enrichment and evolution.Read the full column
The Changing Conversations About Mortality
Brandon Sun, March 27, 2017: There rarely is a convenient time to think about one’s death, eh? Yet, more people are taking the time to do just that. As individuals, as families and as a society, there are advantages to candid talking and advance planning. Part of this contemplation can be writing your own obituary.Read the full column
End the War on Drugs and Find a Better Solution
Brandon Sun, January 27, 2017: The current fentanyl crisis is a reminder of the fiasco that is the War on Drugs. And reminding us of the need to rethink our whole approach to alcohol and drugs are two new Canadian books. One, by Ontario neuroscientist Marc Lewis, is The Biology of Desire. The other, by Saskatchewan lawyer Harold Johnson, is FirewaterRead the full column
We Must Resist the Trump Culture – Here's How
Brandon Sun, January 23, 2017: So, we are now officially in the Trump era. And that means it is time for a Trump culture resistance!Read the full column
Connected to a Larger World – The Growth of Brandon has been Quite the Journey
Brandon Sun, January 19, 2017: “Globalization” is an expression that we associate with today. But Brandon has always been part of a globalized reality. At Brandon’s founding and during its development since, the city and its citizens have been linked to a larger world.Read the full column
One Last Look at a Wild and Wacky Year for Words
Brandon Sun, December 26, 2016: What a year for words! Those that stood out for me in 2016 were new words heard for the first time, ancient words making a reacquaintance, and innovative words for the reality of Donald Trump.Read the full column
United Church Minister Part of Rise of Vocal Atheism
Brandon Sun, November 28, 2016: “Atheist” is a word that does not usually make the news. But right now it is in the news because of an atheist minister in the United Church of Canada. That story is an example of current religious controversies. And of changing religious beliefs.Read the full column
Takeaways From Trump’s Unbelievable Victory
Brandon Sun, November 21, 2016: Donald Trump! What a big mess the U.S. has gotten into. Here are six takeaways from the election that is still hard to believe really happened.Read the full column
The Ongoing Task of Remembrance
Brandon Sun, November 7, 2016: To contemplate the impact of war – especially the First Word War – visit the war memorial in a Manitoba town or village. Look at the monument itself. Read the names. Reflect on the numbers of those who died in the Great War a century ago.Over the years, Brandon has struggled with remembrance.
Read the full column
What the Heck is Going on With the U.S. Election?
Brandon Sun, October 31, 2016: Only a week to go before the U.S. election! Whatever happens on Tuesday Nov. 8, we are in a whole new world.Read the full column
Trump's Comments Pave Way for Cultural Change
Brandon Sun, October 24, 2016: We are fascinated as we watch the U.S. presidential election change politics. And now we see the campaign change our culture. The trigger was . . .Read the full column
An
Education Lesson From 100 Years Ago
Brandon Sun, October 17, 2016: One hundred years ago, Brandon
was the centre of a flourishing innovative educational program. Then
the program was abruptly cancelled. Today, it is all but forgotten.
What was it? It was the “Ruthenian” . . . Read the full column
So
Many Reasons to Appreciate Podcasts
Brandon Sun, September 26, 2016: This Friday is International Podcast
Day. I have become a super podcast enthusiast, so I am happy to
expound upon said subject! A review of the podcast genre, including a
look at The Tim Ferriss Show and Malcolm Gladwell's Revisionist
History. Read the full column
Spanking
Shouldn’t be a Hit With Parents
Brandon Sun, September 19, 2016: Great news that the federal
government is going to make corporal punishment (spanking) illegal.
But many people still think spanking is a good idea. “We were spanked
as kids and we’re OK,” folks say. “So what’s the problem?” Read the full column
Could We Have a Donald Trump in Canada?
Brandon Sun, August 22, 2016: We Canadians are as fascinated as Americans by Donald Trump ! So, the obvious question: could we have a Trump here in Canada? “Of course we could,” the rejoinder goes, “we had Rob Ford, didn’t we?” But . . .Read the full column
Voting Results Reveal New Generation Gap
Brandon Sun, July 18, 2016: We saw it in last year’s federal election. We have seen it in recent American presidential campaigns. Now we see it confirmed in the “Brexit” referendum in the United Kingdom. We are in a new political reality, with a dividing line between young and old. A new generation gap.Read the full column
Expectations in the Wake of the Orlando Massacre
Brandon Sun, June 27, 2016: The recent mass shooting in Orlando, Florida has got us reeling. And got us processing our feelings, thoughts and prejudices. Among the questions raised for me was about our expectations.Read the full column
More Stories of Mayhem from the Brandon Cemetery
Brandon Sun, June 20, 2016: Stories of mayhem capture our attention. Some of these stories are dramatic reminders of the fragility of life. Some are reminders of the injustice that can float almost unnoticed through history. And some are reminders of how one person can make a difference.Here are more stories of mayhem from the Brandon cemetery.
Read the full column
Donald Trump: Stranger Than We Can Imagine?
Brandon Sun, May 30, 2016: Help! I am still coming to grips with Donald Trump! What about more understanding of the world that led to Trump? I was happy to get just that from a new book by British writer John Higgs: Stranger Than We Can Imagine: An Alternative History of the 20th Century.Read the full column
“Bugs
Bunny” Theory of American Politics
Brandon Sun, May 16, 2016: Eight years ago, during the 2008
American presidential election, I happened to read about the “Bugs
Bunny” theory of American politics. Does that theory describe today’s
race for president? Are you kidding? Of course it does! Read the full column
The
Most Politically Incorrect Issue of All?
Brandon Sun, April 18, 2016: What’s the most politically
incorrect issue of all? The issue that demands attention in Manitoba,
yet is not mentioned during a provincial election campaign? The issue?
Abortion.Read the full column
Political
Correctness and the Manitoba Election
Brandon Sun, March 21, 2016: Three words Manitoba politicians do
not want to say out loud during this election: “fetal alcohol
syndrome.” Read the full column
Left
Wing Walking with Swagger – For Now at Least
Brandon Sun, February 29, 2016: Why do those of us on the
political left walk now with an extra swagger? Well, look at what’s
happening!Read the full column
Authors
Leading Vital Conversation About Islam
Brandon Sun, February 22, 2016: Some of the most important
global questions today revolve around Islam. Can the religion be
modernized? Can its tendencies toward sexism, dysfunction and violence
be curbed? Two new books provide an excellent discussion of the issues
and the challenges.Read the full column
Early
Feminists Dreamed of a World Free of Alcohol, Drugs and War
Brandon Sun, January 25, 2016: This week we celebrate the
centennial of women winning the right to vote. Beyond getting rights
like voting, the early feminists had two big dreams. The two dreams
were a society without alcohol (and drugs), and a world without war.Read the full column
“Tragic Scene” 100
Years Ago as Syndicate Block Fire Kills Four
Brandon Sun, January 18, 2016: One hundred years ago: Brandon’s
deadliest fire. The fire at the Syndicate Block, Seventh and Rosser,
killed four employees of the department store Doig, Rankin &
Robertson. The story of the fire was made more dramatic because it was
during the Great War. And because the fire happened just days after
Brandon’s deadliest disaster. Read the full column
“Most
Obituaries are Downright Inspirational”
Brandon Sun, January 11, 2016: Sometimes it’s nice to be
reminded to look for what is good: in one’s life, in the community, in
the world. Wherever. That reminder even could come from an unlikely
source: a newspaper obituary. That is the theme of a new book, Find the Good:
Unexpected Life lessons From a Small-Town Obituary Writer.Read the full column
Handling
the Challenge of Generational Change
Brandon Sun, December 28, 2015: The changeover from Stephen
Harper to Justin Trudeau has got me thinking a lot about generational
change. Ha! Who am I kidding? The turning of the calendar and my
impending old age have really got me thinking!Read the full column
Two Sides
of News 100 Years Ago: War and Shopping
Brandon Sun, December 14, 2015: But life wasn’t only about
joyful shopping. The world was at war. To glimpse that reality, read a
newspaper from 100 years ago.Read the full column
A
History of Struggling to Grasp Climate Change Reality
Brandon Sun, November 30, 2015: So the Paris climate change
summit starts today. As global citizens, we are asked to think about a
really big issue. But as humans, we are at a disadvantage. We evolved
to live in small groups, dealing just with immediate things close at
hand. But consider matters affecting billions of people? Generations
into the future? Science? Hello, 21st century!Read the full column
Changing
the Calendar, Changing the Culture
Brandon Sun, November 16, 2015: Black Friday! Cyber Monday! What
is going on with the changing November calendar? This is more than
just renaming some days. This is about remaking the culture. Read the full column
Brandon's
Messenger of Peace: J.S. Woodsworth
Brandon Sun, November 9, 2015: War and religion usually go well
together. One hundred years ago, religions enthusiastically supported
the Great War. But there were a few religious dissenters. In Canada
one of the most famous was . . .Read the full column
Election
Reflection: Niqabs, Religion, and Social Media
Brandon Sun, October 26, 2015: That was quite the election, eh?
Many of us learned a new word: niqab – the face-covering piece of
clothing. Not usual to talk about religious headwear . . . Read the full column
Exploring
What's Lost in a Connected World
Brandon Sun, October 19, 2015: Serendipity led me to The
End of Absence at the Brandon public library. And a good
thing, too. This enjoyable and thoughtful new book is a useful
antidote to the influence of the Internet and mobile devices. Read the full column
Politically
Incorrect Issues This Election
Brandon Sun, September 28, 2015: “An election,” Prime Minister
Kim Campbell said 20 years ago, “is no time to discuss serious
issues.” She’s right, of course. But what if, during an election, we
DID discuss serious issues?Read the full column
Time
to Speak Up on Physician-Assisted Dying
Brandon Sun, September 14, 2015: Earlier this year, a gentle
wave of relief and gratitude rolled through the people of Canada. The
cause of this wave? The Supreme Court, by unanimously ruling in favour
of the right for a physician-assisted death for people with enduring,
intolerable suffering.Read the full column
Don’t Worry, Be Happy. Be a Harper Voter!
Brandon Sun, August 24, 2015: I was a bit worried when Stephen Harper got into power 10 years ago. But I have since become quite fond of the Harper government and its crazy antics!Read the full column
Author
Digs Deep into Lives of Archeologists
Brandon Sun, August 10, 2015: What do you think might be the
coolest job around? Does your list include “archeologist”? If so, you
share a fascination with American writer Marilyn Johnson. Her new book
is Lives in
Ruins: Archeologists and the Seductive Lure of Human Rubble.Read the full column
“A Gloom Over the City”
Brandon Sun, July 13, 2015: The January 1916 Syndicate Block
fire is one of Brandon’s most dramatic stories. A regular day at work
suddenly became the city’s deadliest fire. Read the full column
This Fragile Dwelling
Place
Brandon Sun, July 6, 2015: Janet Shaw-Russell sees patterns. Out
of the patterns she has seen, she has created a new exhibition at the
art gallery . . . Read the full column
More
Murder, Mayhem in the Brandon Cemetery
Brandon Sun, June 8, 2015: Whether famous or forgotten,
fascinating tales of murder and mayhem are in our past. And – in the
Brandon cemetery – these stories live on . . . Read the full column
Bad Behaviour and
Viral Social Media
Brandon Sun, May 25, 2015: What about that recent incident
outside a soccer game in Toronto? It says a lot about the viral frenzy
of today’s social media, social behaviour, and social shaming. Read the full column
Things
to Keep in Mind on 4/20
Brandon Sun, April 20, 2015: Happy 4/20, everyone! Now you may
be thinking: what the heck is “4/20”? Well, 4/20 means that it is the
time for marijuana!Read the full column
“A
New Ideal For How We Die”
Brandon Sun, April 6, 2015: How would you like to live the last
bit of your life before you die? Not a question we usually think of.
And that is a problem, American doctor Atul Gawande says . . . Read the full column
Remember
Lesson of History on International Women's Day
Brandon Sun, March 2, 2015: Every March 8, we are invited to
remember not only the problems encountered, but also the gains made.Read the full column
Should We Bring Back
Hanging?
Brandon Sun, February 2, 2015: In the spring of 1914,
28-year-old Harry Green had just immigrated from the United Kingdom
and had started working . . . Read the full column
99 Years Ago: “Icy Ruins” in City
Brandon Sun, January 5, 2015: Tragedy hit downtown Brandon 99 years ago. A fire devastated the imposing Syndicate Block at Seventh and Rosser, killing four people.Read the full column
Retired Brandon Judge Speaks Out
Brandon Sun, December 22, 2014: Any discussions with retired judge Brian Giesbrecht are most informative and thought-provoking. He has observations from his work and is willing to speak out – something he could not do during his career.Read the full column
War on Drugs: A Failed Experiment
Brandon Sun, December 8, 2014: If last year’s Brandon-Souris byelection is any indication, legalizing marijuana will be a big issue in the next federal election. So, it is great to see the timely new Canadian book, The War on Drugs: A Failed Experiment.Read the full column
This Changes Everything
Brandon Sun, November 24, 2014: This Changes Everything by Naomi Klein is a landmark book. Klein is a leading Canadian social activist, bestselling author, and public intellectual. Now, she takes on climate change: where we are at, and what needs to be done.Read the full column
How Do We Remember War?
Brandon Sun, November 10, 2014: Remembrance Day this year is especially poignant. We are at the 100-year anniversary of the First World War: the “Great War.”Read the full column
Reflections on “Brandon’s Ghetto”
Brandon Sun, October 27, 2014: I had a great time this summer hosting a walking tour of “Brandon’s Ghetto.” The tour was a one-kilometre, one-hour reflection of the city’s North End in the early 1900s.Read the full column
ISIS: Do We Stand on the Sidelines?
Brandon Sun, October 6, 2014: “We do not stand on the sidelines and watch.” That was Prime Minister Stephen Harper, about fighting the Mideast terrorist group ISIS. So, is the prime minister right?Read the full column
ISIS and the Terrifying Power of Bad Ideas
Brandon Sun, September 22, 2014: Recent news about the ISIS terrorist group in the Middle East presents a chilling look at the power of really bad ideas . . .Read the full column
Celebrating 10 Years of Writing for the Brandon Sun
Brandon Sun, September 8, 2014: Would I like to write a column for the Brandon Sun? The time was 10 years ago. The question was posed to me by Sun general manager Bill Chester as we . . .Read the full column
Quality of Life, Well-Being Research Something We Can Feel Good About
Brandon Sun, July 31, 2014: What determines our quality of life? Our well-being? Our happiness? I had the good fortune recently to ask an expert . . .Read the full column
East End Pioneer Clifford Sifton Changed the Face of Canada
Brandon Sun, July 7, 2014: In the early 20th century Clifford Sifton changed the face of Canada . . . How do we remember these three East End pioneers today?Read the full column
Tales of East End Pioneers
Brandon Sun, June 30, 2014: Three of Brandon’s most prominent early citizens hailed from the East End. The first could be called the original . . .Read the full column
Murder and Mayhem in the Brandon Cemetery
Brandon Sun, June 2, 2014: Why are we drawn to tales of murder and mayhem? Of course, these dramatic events are fascinating. And there is something deeper. These stories remind us of . . .Read the full column
Writing Your Own Obituary Offers Chance for Reflection
Brandon Sun, May 12, 2014: Writing your own obituary might strike you as an odd notion. But some self-written obits recently in the news draw attention to this practice.Read the full column
Francis Marion Beynon: Compelling Story of a Manitoba Suffragist, Pacifist
Brandon Sun, April 28, 2014: We are approaching the 100-year anniversary of the First World War. What will we remember? Not usually remembered are those who opposed the war and spoke out against it. But they, too, were part of the story. And one of the most prominent was a woman . .Read the full column
Tips for Charitable Giving
Brandon Sun, March 31, 2014: Donating to registered charities is a vital part of active citizenship and participating in civil society. Here are five suggestions to make the most of charitable giving.Read the full column
Book Provides Intriguing, Scientific Glimpse into State of Religious Beliefs
Brandon Sun, March 3, 2014: You likely have noticed in the news that people are becoming less religious. But how does this affect us as individuals and as a society? A new book . . .Read the full column
Most Famous Brandonite Born 125 Years Ago
Brandon Sun, February 10, 2014: The most famous Brandonite ever was born 125 years ago this month. His life was a fabulous saga of rags to riches. But he is now almost forgotten here, and there are almost no traces of his life in Brandon. Who was he? And what was his connection to Brandon?Read the full column
Walking the Camino de Santiago
Brandon Sun, January 27, 2014: “Sure, I’ll go with you.” I was responding to my brother’s suggestion that we walk the Camino de Santiago, an ancient . . .Read the full column
Ways to Leave a Legacy
Brandon Sun, December 30, 2013: The end of a year inspires reflection. For those of us who are a bit older, we are thinking about the passing of more than just another year. We are making our “bucket list”: the things we want to do before we “kick the bucket.”But the young also live with an awareness of death . . .
Read the full column
Book Blows Lid Off Food Industry
Brandon Sun, December 16, 2013: You could easily ask: Why was the new book Salt Sugar Fat even published? Don’t we already know . . .?Read the full column
Byelection Reflections
Brandon Sun, December 2, 2013: Here is a bit of a reflection on last week’s byelection.Read the full column
The Marijuana Byelection?
Brandon Sun, November 18, 2013: I am delighted to see marijuana legalization as a big issue in this byelection. I have written about the War on Drugs before; here again is my two cent’s worth.Read the full column
Byelection is about us, the citizens, so get out and vote
Brandon Sun, October 28, 2013: Not your typical Brandon-Souris election. This one is exciting!Read the full column
Food and Thanksgiving
Brandon Sun, October 7, 2013: Thanksgiving is a time to appreciate the food we eat. As well as current issues, the historical context is quite fascinating.Read the full column
Reflections on Bicycling and Heritage
Brandon Sun, September 23, 2013: Brandon has a interesting history – often hidden in plain sight. I was reminded of that again this summer when . . .Read the full column
The End of Growth?
Brandon Sun, August 19, 2013: Can economic growth wipe out the lingering effects of the “Great Recession” and create opportunities for the future? No, says . . .Read the full column
What Went Wrong with the Right?
Brandon Sun, July 29, 2013: With this summer’s Senate scandals, we can lament the sorry state of the Harper government. We were going to get the best of both the Reform party and the Progressive Conservatives. So what went wrong?Read the full column
Tales of Two Brandon Pioneers
Brandon Sun, July 15, 2013: Two early Brandon citizens had an especially big impact on the city. One of them is known today by the landmarks he designed. The other is remembered by a park named after him.Read the full column
Get to Know The Brandon Cemetery
Brandon Sun, June 10, 2013: If you would like to get in touch with your community’s heritage, then get to know your local cemetery. To become acquainted with the cemetery is to remember and recognize your fellow citizens, their lives and deaths.Read the full column
Gay, Good or God?
Brandon Sun, May 6, 2013: I have been quite dismayed by one particular idea that has been presented as part of the discussion about bullying in our society.Read the full column
Empathy Key to Preventing Bullying
Brandon Sun, April 8, 2013: We can learn much about empathy in both the private and public spheres. And about dealing with the concerns raised by Manitoba’s proposed anti-bullying legislation.Read the full column
Churches in the News
Brandon Sun, March 11, 2013: Recent news reports highlight deep divisions both among Christian churches and also with the wider society.Read the full column
Limits to Growth in a Finite World
Brandon Sun, February 4, 2013: In today’s uncertain economic times, the question lurks: Will Canada and other countries slide into another recession? But a bigger question is usually left unasked . . .Read the full column
Books for Winter Reading
Brandon Sun, January 7, 2013: Recently I have been exchanging ideas for “Top Ten” books with friends and family . . .Read the full column
Reflections on the Diamond Jubilee
Brandon Sun, December 10, 2012: The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee invites reflection: not only on the monarch and history, but also . . .Read the full column
More Emphasis on Domestic Violence Prevention is Crucial
Brandon Sun, November 12, 2012: November is Domestic Violence Prevention Month. But I wonder: do we as a society simply accept and manage this violence? Could we not work to really prevent domestic violence?Read the full column
Celebrating Co-operatives
Brandon Sun, October 15, 2012: Co-operatives, along with non-profit organizations, are sometimes described as the "social economy" of our free enterprise society. The social economy provides an important complement, partner, and alternative . . .Read the full column
Many Changes in the World Since 2001 Terrorist Attacks
Brandon Sun, September 10, 2012: Tomorrow is Tuesday, Sept. 11. Which of course is a reminder of the horrific Tuesday of the terrorist attacks 11 years ago. The anniversary is a time to reflect on how . . .Read the full column
Prostitution . . . in Brandon?
Brandon Sun, July 30, 2012: I have a hunch that prostitution is a lot more common than we care to let on. Just take a look at prostitution in the history of Brandon. And a scandal that erupted in the Brandon police department 100 years ago this summer.Read the full column
Dark Side of Brandon’s Past
Brandon Sun, July 2, 2012: Celebrating the glories of the past is easy. But what about remembering the dark side of our past, including some pages we might like to forget?Read the full column
Religion and Values in the Public Square
Brandon Sun, June 4, 2012: U.S. President Barack Obama created a bit of a stir recently with his coming out in favour of gay marriage. The controversy also provides a beautiful follow-up to . . .Read the full column
Ready for a Mormon President?
Brandon Sun, April 30, 2012: The stage is almost set for the upcoming U.S. election. Mitt Romney is poised to clinch the Republican nomination, and so has a good chance of being elected president. Because Romney is a Mormon . . .Read the full column
Surfing World Wide Web Breeds Shallow Thinking
Brandon Sun, April 2, 2012: I am a super Internet enthusiast. So I approached with much interest the recent book The Shallows: What the Internet is Doing to Our Brains.Read the full column
U.S. Will Collapse Like Greece, Bestselling Author Predicts
Brandon Sun, March 5, 2012: With the U.S. election year underway, the state of our southern neighbour invites a closer look. One great way is to dip into Mark Steyn’s new bestselling book After America: Get Ready for Armageddon.Read the full column
Book Brings Captain Palliser’s Expedition to Life
Brandon Sun, January 30, 2012: Retracing history can be enlightening and entertaining. So, it is an informative pleasure to note a new book about the Palliser Expedition that explored the Prairies a century and a half ago.Read the full column
A New Year's Resolution
Brandon Sun, January 2, 2012: Perhaps the most common New Year’s resolution is to lose weight. You’d think that would be a great idea. But our quest to lose weight is a big mistake: for ourselves, for our health, and for our . . .Read the full column
The Medium is the Message?
Brandon Sun, December 5, 2011: What a rush of new media in the past few decades! As technology advances, I often think: What would Marshall McLuhan . . .Read the full column
Reflecting on Consumption
Brandon Sun, November 21, 2011: The Occupy Wall Street protest may be fading. But there is an opportunity this Friday for anyone to reflect on . . .Read the full column
War and Remembrance
Brandon Sun, November 7, 2011: So the Harper government is going to build up the memory of the War of 1812 during that war’s upcoming bicentennial? I’m all for learning more about our history. But this government applies too much simple thinking to both the . . .Read the full column
Discovering Historic Downtown Brandon
Brandon Sun, October 24, 2011: I had a great time researching and guiding a historic downtown walking tour in July, part of “Doors Open Brandon.” It is an excellent way to . . .Read the full column
Real Discussions on Tax and Crime are Being Avoided
Brandon Sun, September 26, 2011: We are in the 21st century, aren’t we? Because you would never know it from the current Manitoba election campaign.Read the full column
Helping Families Deal with Death 'Most Satisfying Work' for Funeral Celebrant
Brandon Sun, September 13, 2011: To chat with funeral celebrant Lawrence McInnes is to explore the changing ways we recognize and remember life and death. The funeral celebrant is a . . .Read the full column
The 4-Hour Workweek
September 5, 2011: A review of the book by Timothy Ferriss, The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich.Read the full column
Live Well, Do Good
Brandon Sun, August 15, 2011: My wife and I attended a Marquis Project meeting recently and heard about the most wonderful things at the Onanole School. That moving presentation prompts me to . . .Read the full column
Canadian History Boring? Not if You Know a Little
Brandon Sun, July 18, 2011: Is Canadian history really that boring? I’m thinking more now about that after reading a new book by John Ralston Saul titled Louis-Hippolyte LaFontaine and Robert Baldwin.Read the full column
Walking Tour of East End Brandon History
Brandon Sun, June 19, 2011: Here is my second suggested three-kilometre Brandon historical walking tour. Take a short stroll and get to know some of our city and its citizens of bygone years.Start at the corner of First Street and . . .
Read the full column
Issues for the Next Election?
Brandon Sun, May 22, 2011: What about the issues that were too controversial to be discussed during the recent election?Here are six examples. Some suggestions are too right wing even for the Conservatives. Or too left wing even for the NDP. Or too radical even for the Greens. Or too mundane even for the Liberals.
Read the full column
Is it an Election About Nothing?
Brandon Sun, April 24, 2011: One wag has already dubbed this the “Seinfeld Election,” because it is supposedly about nothing. But we could be in the midst of a watershed event for our political parties and for our democracy.Read the full column
Stephen Harper is
the New Pierre Trudeau
Brandon Sun, April 10, 2011: A bizarre idea occurred to me
thinking about the Prime Minister and the election: Stephen Harper is
the new Pierre Trudeau.Yet, that seems absurd. How can the somber
Harper compare with the sexy Trudeau?Read the full column
Death Penalty Debate is
Back
Brandon Sun, March 27, 2011: The death penalty – the issue just
won’t go away!Read the full column
Youth
May
Soon Lead Change
Brandon Sun, February 27, 2011: Technological and generational
change has been on my mind this month. Prompting these thoughts are
the revolutions in North Africa, a new book about Baby Boomers, and a
talk in Brandon by Gwynne Dyer.Read the full column
New Book on Louis
Riel Leaves Much to Ponder
Brandon Sun, February 13, 2011: It’s great to have next weekend
as a long one in the middle of the winter, eh? But what about taking a
moment to consider Louis Riel, the namesake of the new Manitoba
holiday?Read the full column
The Greatest Show on Earth
Brandon Sun, January 30, 2011: Evolution or creation? Science or
religion? We had such an interesting time a year ago with this topic
that I can’t resist . . . Read the full column
A
Year of Living Generously
Brandon Sun, January 2, 2011: A great way to reflect on what one
year can be is the new book A
Year of Living Generously: Dispatches From the Front Lines of
Philanthropy. Author Lawrence Scanlan reports on . . . Read the full column
Book Helps Put Seton’s
Westman Roots on Display
Brandon Sun, December 5, 2010: How many of us remember that a
world renowned naturalist, wildlife illustrator, and co-founder of the
Boy Scouts once lived in Western Manitoba? Fortunately, a wonderful
new book can help reacquaint us: Ernest
Thompson
Seton: The Life and Legacy of an Artist and Conservationist.Read the full column
Book Looks at Islamic
World
Brandon Sun, November 7, 2010: Are Islam and the West engaged in
a “clash of civilizations”? Can Islam change to incorporate the
equality of women? Such questions involve all of us as global citizens. So of special interest is the new book Nomad, by Ayaan Hirsi Ali.
Read the full column
Maybe a Little Fox
News Would Liven Things Up
Brandon Sun, October 24, 2010: Canada’s chattering classes are
all riled up now over the impending start of the right-wing Sun TV
News Channel. But if Sun News, dubbed Fox News North, can wake up the
“lamestream” media . . . Read the full column
Pay
More
Income Tax?
Brandon Sun, October 10, 2010: “What! I have to pay more taxes?”
I hear this lament as I work as a tax preparer part time during the income tax season. Clients are shocked if . . .
Read the full column
A More
Thoughtful Approach to Racial Issues is Required
Brandon Sun, September 13, 2010: Dealing with long-standing
racial issues is the subject of a new book that, although from the
U.S., can shed light on Canada. Reading the book is also a reminder of
how differently Americans are . . . Read the full column
Driving Tour of Brandon
Finds Historic Places
Brandon Sun, August 8, 2010: Brandon history fascinating? Yes,
it is. And we can get to know it by looking around us. Some of the
past is recognized . . . Read the full column
Canadian Author
Wonders What Harper is Reading
Brandon Sun, July 3, 2010: Every two weeks for the last three
years, Yann Martel has sent a book – with an accompanying letter – to
Stephen Harper.Read the full column
Take a Brandon Ghost
Walking Tour
Brandon Sun, June 12, 2010: Take a stroll along our city streets
and become acquainted with some ghosts – spirits and memories of
Brandon’s past. Here is a three-kilometre walking tour of Brandon
real-life dramas: Start at the corner of . . .
Read the full column
Tax
Time
Offers Folks a Chance to Reflect
Brandon Sun, May 8, 2010: You might think that your income tax
return is just a way to report your income and figure out the taxes
you owe. Or – better yet – calculate the size of your refund. But a
tax return tells a lot more . . .Read the full column
Authors
Offer
Food for Thought
Brandon Sun, April 24, 2010: Two recent books illuminate the
historical backdrops, current issues, and future questions about food.
There is plenty here for us to digest as consumers, cooks, and
citizens.Read the full column
Rights and Religions
Brandon Sun, March 13, 2010: Despite the gains made in advancing
women’s rights, many cultural and religious customs haven’t caught up
with . . . Read the full column
Canadians Must
Maintain a Higher Standard in War
Brandon Sun, February 13, 2010: Should we care what happens to
Afghan detainees? After all, weren’t these Taliban fighters just
recently trying to kill Canadian soldiers? And isn’t criticizing
the Afghan mission showing a lack of support for our troops? Read the full column
Harmonized
Sales
Tax Deserves a Closer Look in Manitoba
Brandon Sun, January 16, 2010: Who wants to pay more taxes? No
one, of course. But some tax changes are good. Like the HST
(harmonized sales tax) for Manitoba. But both the NDP and
Conservatives are against . . . Read the full column
Evolution Debate
Important
Brandon Sun, December 29, 2009: Evolution? Creation? There have
been interesting letters to the editor in response to my last column
about the evolution / creation . . . Read the full column
Read the letters to the editor
The Evolving
Nature of Belief
Brandon Sun, November 14, 2009: “Evolution is a theory. Creation
is a fact.” So said a bumper sticker on a car in front of me on Rosser Avenue recently . . .
Read the full column
Read the letters to the editor
Saving Our War
Memorials
Brandon Sun, November 7, 2009: (Part Two of Two.) Any day,
not just Remembrance Day, is a time to notice again the war memorials
in our communities. These often-overlooked links to our past invite
reflection on citizenship, war, and peace.Read the full column
Community
Memorials a Link to the Great War
Brandon Sun, October 17, 2009: (Part One of Two.) What
happens when a great world event slams into the lives of ordinary
citizens? One answer can be discovered by visiting our community war
memorials. Read the full column
“Memoir
Man”
a Born Storyteller
Brandon Sun, September 19, 2009: Fred McGuinness is the
consummate storyteller. And he encourages others to tell their
stories, too. Read the full column
Prime
Minister Obama?
Brandon Sun, August 22, 2009: Ever since Barack Obama burst onto
the American political scene, a question has been: Could we have a
leader like that in Canada – a Prime Minster Barack
Obama? Read the full column
Six
Words
To Describe A Life?
Brandon Sun, July 25, 2009: Can just six words sum up a life?
That is the premise of an Internet challenge that resulted in
thousands of submissions and recently the publication of a book
. . . Read the full column
Was the GM Bailout the Best Move
for All Canadians?
Brandon Sun, June 27, 2009: The recent General Motors bailout
got me thinking again about the dearth of good ideas in our
Parliament . . . Read the full column
Role of Religion in War
and Peace
Brandon Sun, May 30, 2009: It's great to see that the Brandon
school board is planning a handout describing different religions. The
descriptions would be distributed to each Grade 5 student, along with
a . . . Read the full column
Lessons
in Success
Brandon Sun, May 2, 2009: Why are some people much more
successful than others? This is the question Malcolm Gladwell explores
in his new bestselling book Outliers:
The
Story of Success . . . Read the full column
We Can Forge a
New Drug Policy
Brandon Sun, April 4, 2009: Deaths of our soldiers in
Afghanistan remind us of the serious nature of Canada’s mission there.
We don’t pay enough attention, however, to the fact our Afghan mission
is entangled with the global “War on Drugs” . . . Read the full column
Remembering Nellie McClung
Brandon Sun, March 7, 2009: International Women's Day is
tomorrow, so this is an ideal time to review the new biography Nellie McClung. Written by
Charlotte Gray, it reminds us again of the importance of McClung,
whose roots were in Westman . . . Read
the full column
Can’t We Do Better Than
This Same Old Political Routine?
Brandon Sun, February 21, 2009: With the release of the huge
federal budget deficit, I see two familiar trends as the Conservatives
and Liberals square off against each other. I also have one . .
. Read the full column
Citizenship
Redefined
Brandon Sun, February 7, 2009: “My fellow citizens,” begins the
new U.S. President, Barack Obama. His inaugural address marks not only
his new job, but also a new level of discourse about . . .
Read the full column
Drug,
Alcohol Policies Reveal Our Hypocrisy
Brandon Sun, January 10, 2009: Recent news items about
restrictions on shopping for liquor in Manitoba reveal yet again our
society’s hypocrisy about alcohol and drug use. Plus the failure of
our "War on Drugs" . . . Read the full column
Be
Prepared:
Will, Health Care Directive (Living Will), Obituary, and More
Brandon Sun, December 13, 2008: Don’t read this column. At least
not right away. Read
the
full column
Learning
to
Step Lightly
Brandon Sun, November 15, 2008: “Buy Nothing Day” challenges us to
stop spending for one day. Stepping
Lightly: Simplicity for People and the Planet, a new book by
Manitoba author Mark Burch, invites us to consider living more simply
all the time. Read the full column
Vote Early,
Vote Often, and Vary Your Vote
Brandon Sun, October 4, 2008: Is it responsible to vote for a
“fringe” party? This time in Brandon-Souris, the question is
especially appropriate, for two reasons. One . . .
Read the full
column
Campaigns
of
Contrast
Brandon Sun, September 20, 2008: How delicious to have elections
going on in the U.S. and Canada at the same time! A great time to
compare and contrast not only electoral processes, but also . .
. Read the full column
Donation Laws Give
Citizens More Clout
Brandon Sun, August 23, 2008: Money now being contributed to
Canada’s political parties shows a huge shift underway. As well, new
rules invite ordinary citizens to get more . . . Read the full column
No
Ordinary Walk in the Park
Brandon Sun, July 26, 2008: A recent trip to England and France
left my wife and me with many wonderful memories. Plus thoughts about
citizenship, technology, and . . . Read
the
full column
Tours,
Book
Bring Cemetery to Life
Brandon Sun, June 14, 2008: Three great resources bring to life
the stories buried in our local cemeteries. Gossip
in the Graveyard, What
Lies Beneath, and Every
Stone a Story all inform, inspire, and invite us to . .
. Read the full column
Blue Bag System Abruptly Abandoned
Brandon Sun, May 31, 2008: Brandon City Council recently adopted a new recycling program. But why was not one word said about the existing blue bag program – which the City had claimed would save money, reduce pollution, and lower greenhouse gases? Read the full columnWiki is the Way of the Future
Brandon Sun, May 3, 2008: Wikinomics derives its name and inspiration from “wiki,” which is open source software that anyone can . . . Read the full columnBrandon Casino Plebiscite Result
April 7, 2008: Well, what did we learn from the recent plebiscite? Yes, I’m going to take another kick at . . . Read the full columnDespite the Disconnects, I'll Vote 'Yes'
Brandon Sun, March 8, 2008: I can’t resist getting into the casino debate. Call it an urge, a curiosity, a desire to take a risk. Just don’t call it an . . . Read the full columnInvesting With an Eye on Ethics
Brandon Sun, February 9, 2008: This time of year, many of us are thinking more about money . . . Read the full columnFuture of Politics on Display
Brandon Sun, January 12, 2008: Regardless of who is elected American President this November, their current political campaign offers a fascinating glimpse into the future. And not just the future for the U.S., but for . . . Read the full columnFuture Change May Be Dramatic
Brandon Sun, December 15, 2007: I thought I would end this year’s columns with some reflections on the future. Reflections prompted by looking back at the birth of Brandon 125 years ago . . . Read the full columnPerception and Reality of Crime Not Always the Same
Brandon Sun, November 17, 2007: Do you ever look at the Brandon Crime Stoppers feature in the Sunday Brandon Sun? The crimes profiled – from armed robbery to vandalism – make for uncomfortable . . . Read the full columnNow is the Season for Community Events
Brandon Sun, October 14, 2007: Participating in three events in the last few weeks was enjoyable and meaningful for me. It was also a reminder of . . . Read the full columnOrdinary Lives, Extraordinary Stories
Brandon Sun, September 29, 2007: . . . The life story of Harold Gray is one of 42 obituaries of everyday people in a new book by Colorado newspaper reporter Jim Sheeler. Obit: Inspiring Stories of Ordinary People Who Led Extraordinary Lives is a . . . Read the full columnOur Citizenship, Paid For By Our Taxes
Brandon Sun, August 26, 2007: “Ask not what your country can do for you,” U.S. President John F. Kennedy famously said in 1961, “ask what you can do for your country.” Nowadays, somewhat regrettably, we are more likely to ask . . . Read the full columnThe New "Palliser Expedition": A Modest Proposal
Brandon Sun, July 12, 2007: (Part Three of Three.) . . . Another concern 150 years ago was environmental. . . . John Palliser and his company observed the countryside at close hand as they travelled by canoe, foot, horseback, snowshoe, and dog sled . . . Read the full columnNeed to Track Changes on the Prairies
Brandon Sun, July 5, 2007: (Part Two of Three.) . . . Globalization was already a major dynamic for the Prairies 150 years ago. The fur trade had brought Europeans to the Prairies and also drawn the First Nations people into the global economy . . . Read the full columnIs It Time For A New “Palliser Expedition”?
Brandon Sun, June 28, 2007: (Part One of Three.) . . . John Palliser led an Expedition that travelled through the Prairies 150 years ago. To mark this sesquicentennial . . . Read the full columnProud History of Looking Forward
Brandon Sun, June 29, 2007: Begin in 1882 as a tiny settlement - mostly of tents. Reach 2007 as a bustling contemporary city. Quite the journey for Brandon! Yet even in the earliest years, the inhabitants of Brandon were surprisingly impacted by . . . Read the full columnAdventures in Film-Making
Brandon Sun, June 10, 2007: Once Upon A Time: It all started one Sunday when my wife noticed an item in the Brandon Sun: there was going to be an open casting call for a movie . . . Read the full columnShared Agriculture: A Growing Notion
Brandon Sun, June 3, 2007: Apples, beets, carrots . . . radishes, squash, tomatoes . . . zucchini. This is an alphabet sampling of the delicious and nutritious fruits and vegetables that are available to the Community Shared Agriculture participants . . . Read the full columnIt’s Only Fair to Care, Downtown, Over Coffee
Brandon Sun, May 3, 2007: The time is last Thursday evening. I am enjoying a coffee break at Scarlatti’s Cappuccino Bar on Rosser Avenue. The coffee is delicious and . . . Read the full columnStop Thief!
Brandon Sun, April 8, 2007: I recently had an anti-theft immobilizer installed in our vehicle. So naturally I read with interest the news reports from Winnipeg about stolen cars being used there to run down . . . Read the full columnAll Those Little Things Can Really Add Up – To Cash
Brandon Sun, March 15, 2007: Two recent books provide fascinating reading about how the Internet is changing our world. These are The Long Tail and Wikinomics. The author of The Long Tail: Why the Future of Business is Selling Less of More is Chris Anderson, the . . . Read the full columnWhy Not Give an Hour of Your Time?
Brandon Sun, January 7, 2007: Volunteering is important to the vitality and sustainability of many community efforts: from hospitals and other large institutions to the smallest programs. Overall, in Canada . . . Read the full columnGet a Break on Your Taxes Through Charitable Donations
Brandon Sun, December 31, 2006: (Part Two of Two.) According to a recent Statistics Canada survey, almost everyone gives to a non-profit program or group during the year. Here are some tips on getting the most of your donations at income tax time. Read the full columnDonating is a Great Way to Feel Connected to Your Community
Brandon Sun, December 28, 2006: (Part One of Two.) The vast majority of Canadians donate money to the 160,000 charitable and other non-profit organizations in the country. Totaling about $9 billion, these donations . . . Read the full columnTomorrow, Buy Nothing
Brandon Sun, November 23, 2006: What? Spend an entire day buying nothing? The very idea challenges us, shocks us even, especially at this time of year. Buy Nothing Day was started in 1992 by Adbusters, a . . . Read the full columnDoes Our Tax System Address Productivity, Sustainability, and the Future?
Brandon Sun, November 5, 2006: (Part Two of Two.) Read the full columnChanging Taxes Reflect Our Changing Lives: Complexity and Diversity
Brandon Sun, November 2, 2006: (Part One of Two.) The way that income taxes are collected provides an interesting snapshot of how our society works and changes. Read the full columnThoughts on the Brandon Civic Election
October 31, 2006: The municipal elections last week showed a few things about where we are at as a city. We got national publicity, but what else happened? Read the full columnMark Your Calendars for October
Brandon Sun, October 8, 2006: October features a number of events that remind us of sustainability issues. There are opportunities for insight, information, and involvement. Read the full columnDid You Hear the News? Did You Really?
Brandon Sun, August 31, 2006: (Part Two of Two.) Electronic sources, especially the Internet, deliver much more news to us than we used to get. Are we getting better news? Are we "getting" the news we do receive? Read the full columnWhat's Black and White, But Not Read All Over?
Brandon Sun, July 30, 2006: (Part One of Two.) How we get the news has a lot to do with sustainable communities: what we know about what's happening, diversity of viewpoints, and ideas of options for the future. Of course . . . Read the full columnReflections on the
City and Calgary
Brandon Sun, June 25, 2006: My wife and I recently spent a few
days visiting friends in Calgary. Calgary is remarkable not only for
the hustle and bustle, but also for the numbers of Westman youth
there. I returned to Brandon thinking . . . Read
the full column
Brand-New It's Shiny, But That Waste Isn't Tiny
Brandon Sun, May 25, 2006.Can We Nurture and Retain Famous People in Westman?
Brandon Sun, April 23, 2006. (Part Two of Two.)Who Could Be Brandon's Most Famous?
Brandon Sun, April 20, 2006. (Part One of Two.)"Green Drinks" Now in Brandon
Brandon Sun, March 26, 2006.Exercising Our Rights . . . And Responsibilities
Brandon Sun, February 23, 2006.Welcome to the World of Sustainability
Brandon Sun, January 26, 2006.Christmas, Politics, and the GST
Brandon Sun, December 15, 2005.Brandon: What Kind of a City Do We Want?
Brandon Sun, September 29, 2005. (Part Two of Two.)Brandon: What Kind of a City Do We Want?
Brandon Sun, September 15, 2005. (Part One of Two.)What's Up With Grand Theft Auto?
Brandon Sun, August 18, 2005.A Few Reflections on "Skunk and Junk"
Brandon Sun, April 14, 2005.How I Spent My Summer Vacation
Brandon Sun, October 7, 2004.Funny Politics?
Brandon Sun, May 13, 2004.The “Dark Side” of Recycling?
Brandon Sun, February 5, 2004.
QUICK CONTACT:
David McConkey,
Brandon, Manitoba
204-726-9440
Send me an email
My Sites / Interests
- Citizen Active
- Columns
- The Great War
- Live Well, Do Good
- Manitoba History
- Obituary Guide
- Reviews
- The War on Drugs
Some Reviewed Books:
The War on Drugs:
A Failed Experiment

The Atheist Muslim:
A Journey from Religion to Reason

Stranger Than We Can Imagine:
An Alternative History of the 20th Century
Heretic:
Why Islam Needs a Reformation Now
Islam and the Future of Tolerance:
A Dialogue

Extraordinary Canadians:
Nellie McClung

The Greatest Show on Earth:
The Evidence for Evolution
