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OPINION Canadians have much to be thankful for In many African countries disease runs rampant and fending off starvation is a daily battle. In the Middle East, peace is often fragile and has proven elusive for decades. In Asia, terrifying storms have battered the continent in recent years, killing thousands and wreaking havoc on the economy and infrastructure in many countries. Other nations have crippling problems ranging from poverty to human rights abuses to government instability. Looking at the rest of the world, we in Canada have a lot to be thankful for. We have a nation full of natural resources from coast to coast and the country's citizens have no restrictions to travel throughout our vast land. Our health care system, while often under fire, is the envy of many countries. Next month in Ontario municipal elections will be held where citizens can duly elect the politician of their choice under a free voting system-- just one of three levels of government where we are allowed the freedom to choose those we wish to lead us. Most Canadians tonight will not go to bed hungry or homeless. That's not to say there aren't those among us who need assistance, but often help is available for those less fortunate. Canada is looked upon as a benevolent nation and one that is appealing to those wishing to make it their new home. That reputation was not gained without good leadership and commitment from its citizens throughout the past 139 years. This weekend, as you enjoy Thanksgiving with family and friends, pause a moment and give thanks you are a Canadian. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Diversity March a resounding success Dear editor, On September 16, Georgetown was home to the first ever Welcoming Diversity March. I would like to thank everyone who participated and/or contributed to making the march such a wonderful day. I am proud of the leadership demonstrated by every participant and it was great to see Amnesty International there too. I would especially like to recognize the leadership of the youth of Peer Outreach Support Services & Education (POSSE) and the partners of the Welcoming Diversity March-- Lois Fraser of Fraser Direct Logistics Ltd., Halton Organization of Pride and Education (HOPE), North Halton Cultural Awareness Council, Halton MultiCultural Council, Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton, the Métis Women's Circle and the Ontario Trillium Foundation. Taking a public stand on sometimes unpopular issues based on sound principle is the only way we, as a society, have ever gained our civil rights and freedoms. It is the responsibility of those in positions of power and privilege to create safe and welcoming space for those without the advantages of power or privilege (minorities and the marginalized) to be included and heard. At the Welcoming Diversity March about 100 people took a stand-- the United Nations Flag and the Pride Flag were raised and marched through town, as a symbol of our recognition of everyone's basic human rights, acceptance of diversity and our commitment to a peaceful world. I am grateful a group of youth, organizations and concerned citizens would demonstrate such leadership welcoming diverse people, who otherwise had not been officially recognized in Halton Hills. Kimm Kent, Peer Outreach Support Services & Education (POSSE) March raises $30,000 Dear editor, On behalf of the organizers of the Mito March: Kure for Kirkland, I would like to thank everyone who contributed and helped make it another successful event.The march raised more than $30,000 for Dr. Robinson's Mitochondrial disease research lab at the Hospital for Sick Children. These proceeds have been donated under the Kirkland Kilbride Research Fund and when added to last year's contribution results in a total donation of more than $66,000. This event would not be possible without the support of our community and local businesses. Kirkland is blessed to live in a town filled with such warmth and kindness. Thank you for "giving meaning to his journey". Sue Coulighan, co-ordinator Mito March: Kure for Kirkland How to find Caledon election information Dear editor, As Ontario residents get ready for the upcoming November municipal election, many residents will be relying on their local newspapers to provide them with the information they need to make informed, educated decisions at the polls. But unfortunately, municipal boundaries, electoral districts and newspaper distribution territories don't always align. Such is the case on the eastern edge of Halton Hills, which abuts to the Town of Caledon. Although municipally, Caledon is their community, it is the Independent & Free Press that is delivered to their doors. This creates particular and unique challenges for those Caledon residents wanting to get all the news on their candidates, and for candidates themselves wanting to get their messages out during the election campaign. This is a reminder to all Caledon taxpayers who receive The Independent & Free Press that they may find the latest information on the election by calling the Town of Caledon administration offices at 1-800-303-2546 or 905584-2272 or from my campaign election team at 905-873-6811. Details are also available on-line at www.caledon.ca or www.AllanForCaledon.ca. Allan Thompson, Candidate for Ward 2 Regional Councillor, Town of Caledon