Hi, Muriel This is Nat Smith from the Prospect, Halifax County Genweb site. I live in Halifax, the section called Fairview. I am only 16 (17 in November) and I go to Halifax West High school. The problem is I don't think I am in Halifax West riding. I remember seeing Alexa McDonough's signs up around my house when the last election was going on, but we live right next to Clayton Park which is Halifax West. So I don't know who I should write the letter to. Though both people are supporting the bill I would like to see what they have to say to me. Another thing. I can't vote! So will they listen to me? I mean first of all my parents would never vote NDP, but still since they are my MP's and my parents do vote, could I use that as some sort of thing to talk about, if I write a letter? Also if I wanted to start a petition, since I can't vote would that make the petition illegal? I mean since the person who is getting people to sign it, and signs it himself isn't legal, then does that forfeit the petition? [NO WAY!!!!!} I know I have a lot of questions, but the 1911 Census would be the first census where my grandfather shows up in Canada, and I would love to see what information is on it (they lived in Ottawa) because my father's side of the family is a total blank wall, and secondly I would love to furthur my research by adding to the information I already have, such as children born after 1901, and where family members lived, and so on. I am sure you probably have the same concerns. So please if you can try to answer my questions, and let me know how I can help. Should the young genealogists like myself band together? Nat Smith Halifax, Nova Scotia ========================= Hi Nat:- You surprised me -- I like your work -- really thought you were older than 16/17. This is a real compliment! You have a great deal of potential, and YES, young genealogists should or could band together to hopefully pry the 1911 census away from others -- you need it NOW, and will in the future. On the petitions, we do not ask ages of people -- there are both Senate and House of Commons petitions, addresses on these: http://www.globalgenealogy.com/census/petition.htm You will have a choice to send a Senate petition to me, or House of Commons one to Gordon Watts. [Senate for Canadians] Try writing a letter to Alexa -- do not worry about political parties -- census should not be a political item, as it is the basis of all genealogical work. I believe you also have Gordon Earle, do you not? Do not worry about your age -- THEY will want your vote shortly, and you might find many at school willing to sign petitions. I would speak to one of your teachers and discuss this matter. Nat -- all the best!! Again, you certainly fooled me re your age! Muriel M. Davidson <davidson3542@home.com> http://homepages.rootsweb.com/~downhome/ [Nova Scotia Links for Prospect]