I am an Ontarian--albeit a transplanted Quebec-Anglo- and I don't feel that Ontarions epitomize Canadian culture in general. I don't feel we ignore other parts of Canada. I cherish the qualities that each of these areas bring to the national character. Being from "away", I see differences between anglos from Quebec, and those in Ontario; and from those in any of the other regions of Canada. I cherish all of them.

Yes, we are influenced by American culture. We share a language, and some of our british heritage in common. However, I don't hang on to my speech/attitudes in deliberate opposition to American culture. Rather, my culture is me, and I am part of it. As to whether other parts of Canada are "more distinct" than Ontario is a non-issue; as Popeye said, "I yam what I yam". Am I different from Americans? Of course I am. Am I similar? Yes. But my culture does not need to be measurable on some comparative scale. Swedes, Norwegians and Danes share some culture and history in common, yet seem to have no problem being comfortable with themselves.

Respectfully, Rich McCarthy