Stampede –The Rise of the West and Canada’s New Power Elite by Gordon Pitts

Winner of the 2009 National Business Book Award

Pitts present an interesting view on what is currently taking place in Canada’s economic, political, environmental and technological spheres.

With a long term prosperity and developmental view for Canada, Pitts concludes with a list of suggestions:

1. Re-brand Alberta –Change the Image of Alberta
2. Create the Heritage Fund for the Arts, Culture and Social Sciences –Work on Diversifying the economy and providing alternate views, activities and opportunities for Albertans.
3. Run a bullet train between Calgary and Edmonton –Prevent accidents and delays  and Unite the 2 opposing competitors
4. Establish a task force on the oil sands –Plan ahead and figure out a development plan and a reclamation plan
5. Move a major bank to Calgary –Support development through by  readily accessible financial services and support
6. End provincial trade barriers –Enable free movement of employees (recognize certified tradesmen from other provinces) and remove barriers to supply and demand
7. Build universities of excellence –Sustainability & diversify what Alberta has to offer
8. Develop a national talent strategy –Recruit high in demand skilled individuals from other countries
9. It’s no more Mr. Nice Guy –Utilize taxes and ensure a fair portion is received
10. Make over the zero-sum mentality –Think Win-Win
11. Learn to Love resources –Be Proud of what we have and don’t downplay its importance or prestige

For anyone interested in a concise overview of the Canadian politics and economies, this is a must read and provides insightful background. It also warns of the dangers of resentment and if we continue to battle and concentrate on the transgressions we fail to realize and maximize our potential.