Born Into It

I’m amazed that every major publication and news outlet in this country wants to tap into the deep political mind of Justin Trudeau and get his thoughts on where the country is heading. By all accounts, Justin is a nice man. He’s a teacher and a geography major. His father was Prime Minister. And that makes him an expert?

This bugs the heck out of me.

But it has also given me an idea for a sideline business.

For many years, my Dad owned and operated a very successful salvaging company specializing in taking up railroad tracks and taking down bridges and trestles. It was the first of its kind to be set up privately, apart from the rail line companies. So, I’m obviously an expert on the subject. I used to answer the phone, I knew how to tell a 3rd grade railroad tie from a 2nd or first grade. I could give you the weight of the rails and even advise you on how to build a proper retaining wall. One summer I even delivered ties and – yes – a pal and I put them on and took them off the truck by ourselves. I spent another summer on the road throughout the province selling truckloads of ties to landscaping firms and I did very well.

So here I am, available to the railroad industry as an expert. I’m expecting invitations to conventions and I think they’ll appreciate my modest fee for a keynote speech on The Advantages of Creosote over Pressure Treated Lumber. Canada AM, I’m waiting for your call!