To the editor:

During the winter, I live as far from Canada, literally, as one can and still live in the U.S. During the summer, I live almost as close to Canada as one can. I live in Key West, Florida and Lake Clear, New York.

Not surprisingly, I know many Canadians here in Florida — our state is/was very popular with Canadians. What I can tell you is my Canadian friends are very upset. Did you know that if you go to a Canadian supermarket, they make regular announcements that they are committed to stocking Canadian products and as much as possible only-Canadian products? If you order a “americano” coffee there now, you will be told it’s called a “canadiano.”

Perhaps I am missing something, but I think this isn’t good for the places I live and love. The beautiful North Country of the Adirondacks; the paradise of my very tiny Island in the Atlantic Ocean. What is to be done? May I suggest that at least the place closest to Canada be the first and foremost to campaign and proclaim loudly and clearly — “Welcome Canadians!” And waste no time doing it.

Kevin Barry

Key West